Issue 12 - Montrose Mirror

Issue No. 12 May 18, 2011 © Your Source for local Business News and Information Also in this issue… Museum of the Mountain West! Lu AnneVisits Ouray’s Box Canyon Lodge! Simmer Food & Wine! Ridgway Residents Oppose Family Dollar Store! Region 10 Loans Available for Small Business! The Montrose Psychic! And so much more... RECREATION AS AN ECONOMIC DRIVER
Montrose Rec District Targets Community Rec Center
The Montrose Mirror is a
Twice­monthly Wednesday
publication focusing on local business
news and information .
Editor:
Caitlin Switzer
Business Development
Lu Anne Tyrrell
Editorial Board:
Jim Elder
Julianne Messenger
Darcy Johnson
[email protected]
Please help support our
Advertisers:
hdavidson@ farmersagent.com Bill Heddles Rec Center in Delta is a com­
munity gathering place. By Caitlin Switzer MONTROSE—Fun is serious busi­
ness for Ken Sherbenou. As Executive Director of the Montrose Recreation District, Sherbenou knows that healthy citizens mean a healthy com­
munity, and that a community rec center can be a key component when it comes to building healthier citizens. To explore the possibilities of a dedi­
cated public recreation center here in Montrose, the Recreation District re­
cently established a 24­member task force­­representing a cross­section of the community and major local organi­
zations­­charged with assessing the Dis­
trict’s contribution to the community and preparing the way for a feasibility study. “Communities in Colorado are increas­
ingly recognizing the importance of offering accessible, quality recreational opportunities,” Sherbenou said. “Recreation Centers are typically the centerpieces of a community; they be­
come a central gathering place, a hub.” Rather than taking business away from private fitness facilities, community rec centers actually strengthen the market for those facilities, he said. “In Durango, private recreation pro­
viders opposed building a public rec www.montroseact.com Cont. on page 5 PRODIGAL “SONS” RETURN
West Slope Rockers Seek Return to Ridgway Roots
www.forealliance.org www.rechargecolorado.org www.camelotgardens.com www.co.montrose.co.us www.voa.org By Caitlin Switzer DENVER—Playing in one of the Colo­
rado’s hottest young bands can be small consolation when you’re scraping pen­
nies together in the big city, looking for a ride to get you back home. For Stosch Dembitsky, Bailey Vince and Joel Waller, it has always been about the muse. Their band, formerly known as Fractalia and now going by the name “Sons of the Addicted,” devel­
oped an enthusiastic fan base in Western Colorado before moving to Denver sev­
eral years ago in pursuit of larger venues and the chance to play before Front West Slope guitar wizard Stosch Dembitsky wants to bring his band home. Range audiences. The music continues to evolve—those Cont. on Page 3 No reprints without permission Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 2
Montrose Reviews
City Manager Candidates
“It is most
important to
save the
businesses
that you have,
as opposed to
constantly
bringing in new
businesses,”
—City Manager
Candidate
William Bell
Montrose City Manager Candi­
dates Maryann Ustick, Robert Karlinsey , Don Van Wormer, Bill Bell and Stephen Giesbrecht. By Claire Clemens Montrose Mirror Intern MONTROSE­­On Thursday, May 5, the media had the oppor­
tunity to interview five different people, each with different backgrounds and from different places in the country. Robert Karlinsey, Stephen Giesbrecht, Don Van Wormer, Maryann Ustick, and William Bell all have one thing in common: hope. All of these people hope to be the next city manager of Montrose, Colorado. Each can­
didate brings something differ­
ent to the table in hopes of achieving that goal, and of bet­
tering Montrose. If Robert Karlinsey, the current city administrator of Gig Har­
bor, Washington, were to get the job, the first things he would do would be to read and listen. Before changing anything, he would want to build relation­
ships with the community and the city council, and learn more about Montrose and Colorado. “I wouldn’t turn the town up­
side­down within a couple weeks,” says Karlinsey. Stephen Giesbrecht, the city administrator of Electra, Texas, agrees about the importance of getting to know the town and its needs, but would have a differ­
ent approach to Montrose based on his observations. Montrose appears to be a “sales­tax­city,” and while this source of income is working out currently, he feels that this is a potentially unstable source of income. Giesbrecht would like to work on finding other sources of reve­
nue as a back­up plan to make sure that Montrose remains fi­
nancially stable. After becoming familiar with local businesses and the com­
munity, Don Van Wormer, the city manager of Monte Vista, Colorado, would focus on con­
tinuing economic momentum. His goal would be to make sure that jobs, downtown, and the local economy continue to flourish, instead of turning for the worse. Maryann Ustick, the acting city manager for North Las Ve­
gas, Nevada, would not try to focus simply on one thing. Her plan of action would be to work with the council to achieve their needs. She would also work to bal­
ance the internal (obstacles to goals within the council) and external (how the community feels) parts of the job so that the community would benefit the most. William Bell, the city adminis­
trator of Rhineland, Wisconsin, grew up in western Colorado, and has noticed the change that Montrose has undergone over the years. To him, it would be important to maintain balances between tourism and industry, and be­
tween big retail and downtown. He also believes that it is “most important to save the businesses that you have,” as opposed to constantly bringing in new busi­
nesses. The Montrose City Council is currently deliberating, and hopes to make a decision this week, Councillor Carol McDer­
mott said. ART PARTNERS TO HOST 2011 ART EXHIBITION
RIDGWAY—Please join Art Partners for the 2011 Art Exhi­
bition. We are partnering with The Old School House Empori­
um in Ridgway to make this show one to remember. This is an exciting presentation featur­
ing art work from our artist in­
tern/ apprentices and their artist mentors. Art Partners is a program of Partners, a non­profit organiza­
tion that promotes positive change in youth through sup­
ported one­to­one mentoring relationships with adult volun­
teers. Art Partners matches community professional artists with youth ages 12­17 who have artistic talent and an interest in learning and refining their skills.n The Opening Recep­
tion is Saturday May 21st from 3 to 6 P.M. The exhibition will be on display until June12th at Old School House Emporium, 1075 Sherman St. Ridgway. The building is just west of down­
town Ridgway, at the base of the hill on the right. Page 3
Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
PRODIGAL “Sons” Return...continued from page 1
The band at a Ridgway gig before leaving for Denver. (Courtesy photo) fortunate enough to catch Sons of the Addicted in a late­night show at Turn of the Century in Montrose earlier this month could easily see why this young group of musicians has won so many competitions—
and so many local hearts. From longtime favorites like “Fractal World” and “Couch Surfer” to newer pieces, the band’s unique sound and attention to craft have always earned raves. However, Denver’s hard­edged club scene proved to be a tough market for the Sons of the Addict­
ed, known and loved in Ridgway and Telluride for playing light­
hearted, family­friendly shows that appealed to all ages. The resources of North Fork Val­
ley producer Dik Darnell, who guided the band through the pro­
cess of creating their first CD, pur­
chased new equipment for them, and changed their name, have been exhausted. Two of the band members recent­
ly lost their day jobs, and the three have opted to move out of the Den­
ver home they share. “We really appreciate everything Dik has done for us,” Dembitsky said. “But right now, we’re just trying to get a little money saved, to get a car and come back home. Rock isn’t really happening right now in the City—even supposedly live bands are not really “live.” I like to play my style of music; I know we can get better gigs back home All we want to do is keep it together, and keep on playing.” A gig at Fly Me to The Moon Saloon in Telluride, where the band had a strong local following before moving to the Front Range, sounds like a dream at this point, he said. “I quit drinking years ago,” said Dembitsky, who is now 30. “We’re not really into the night life scene. We just want to play music for a room full of people who are paying attention. If they are interacting with the music, and dancing, I am stoked.” A decade in the rock and roll business has left him feeling older than his years, he added. “I dropped out of high school to play,” said Dembitsky, who grew up in Ouray County and whose lead vocals have drawn compari­
sons to Primus and other alterna­
tive rock bands. In the beginning, Fractalia was best known for Dembitsky’s virtuosic guitar skills, but over the years the band has come together in a cohesive unit that highlights the talents of all three. Fellow Ouray local Bailey Vince plays drums, raps, and sings back­
up vocals, while Joel Waller plays bass and sings backup vocals. (Fractalia originally included sev­
eral other band mates, but not all of them chose to relocate to Denver when the band left.) Dembitsky said he hopes to sup­
plement his income once he is back on the Western Slope by providing guitar lessons to others, and by holding educational clinics and playing private parties with his band mates. “I wish I could have had some old­
er dudes with experience to show me what to do when I was young,” Dembitsky said. For now, however, the gifted young band—friends since their teenage years­­that played so many free shows to raise money for com­
munity causes on the Western Slope now finds raising funds for a vehicle to get home to be their big­
gest challenge. “We can’t afford to have a truck and a house and travel, so I guess we’ll just have a truck, and we’ll be Couch Surfers, like in our song,” Dembitsky said. “I imagine there are some people who won’t mind letting us stay.” Despite their financial struggles, this hottest of bands continues to improve and refine their signature sound, with new songs that are better than anything they have done in the past, he said. To longtime fans, this should come as no surprise—as Fractalia, the band consistently earned top honors in Battles of the Bands from Durango to Montrose to Grand Junction. “We’ve been posting our new stuff on www.reverbnation.com,” Dembitsky said, adding, “I think we all came to Denver thinking we would go to the next level, with some support behind us. Now, we’re just stoked to get a vehicle. “I think back on all the years I have spent playing music, and now we have no money, and nothing coming our way. We’re just back to square one, slumming around the Western Slope looking for plac­
es to play. “But the Western Slope is my fa­
vorite place,” he said. Locals who want to help Sons of the Addicted come back home can send contributions to Bailey Vince’s mom, Kit Johnson, at 124 Akard Avenue, Montrose CO 81401. To contact the band for possible clinics or shows, call Dembitsky at 970­210­9841. “We just want
to play music
for a room full
of people who
are paying
attention,”
—Stosch
Dembitsky
Fan Update—
Catch Sons of the Addicted at the Steaming Bean in Telluride on June 4...and stay tuned for a possible June 3 show in Norwood! Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 4
MONTROSE PSYCHIC OFFERS READINGS, ADVICE
“Psychic healing
relates to so
many categories
in life,”
—Montrose
Psychic Tiffany
Stevens
By Caitlin Switzer MONTROSE—She’s just 20 years old, but her natural psy­
chic ability is a gift that goes back for generations, according to Tiffany Stevens, who bills herself as “The Montrose Psy­
chic.” “I have been doing this profes­
sionally since I was 17,” said Stevens, whose family original­
ly came to the United States from Romania. Although she initially located her business on South Town­
send, Stevens is currently re­
opening at 625 East Main Montrose Psychic Tiffany Stevens Street. She said that she came has moved to 625 East Main St. to Montrose after hearing from Stevens has worked as a profes­
close family that there was no sional psychic since age 17. practicing psychic in town, and has found the local community to be both open and supportive. “In today’s world, a lot of people are looking for answers in life,” Stevens said, “and a psychic reading can give you answers. “Should you take that job op­
portunity? Is he the right guy for me? Will I win my custody battle? And of course, there are health­related issues.” In addition to readings, Ste­
vens offers advice, spiritual cleansing, meditation and inner body healing. “Psychic healing relates to so many categories in life,” she said. The Montrose Psychic can be reached at 970­258­0672. Hug­A­Bear Care to Host Trike­A­Thon, Family Golf Tournament
to learn empathy and caring for others. The Trike­A­Thon will benefit St. Jude’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org), while helping kids gain im­
portant riding toy safety skills. “After caring for a child who had open­heart surgery, I know that this hospital directly affects students of Hug­A­Bear and our community,” Ray said. “And the children will gain motor skills that enhance their ability to learn. Just bring your bike helmet, and a donation.” Hug­A­Bear will also hold an adult­child Golf Tournament Fundraiser at Black Canyon Golf Course on June 25, to raise Hug­A­Bear Child Care & Learning Center will hold an adult­child funds for a new jungle gym and golf tournament at Black Canyon Golf Course on June 25. The Center facility improvements. Families hopes to raise funds for facility improvements. Hug­A­Bear will also are encouraged to make a day host a Trike­A­Thon at its facility on June 23. of it—entry fees are $30 for adults and $10 for kids age 4­
MONTROSE—Local kids will Trike­A­Thon (118 Apollo 17, and include green fees, cart, have the chance to learn valua­ Road) at 10 a.m. on June 23. snacks and chances to win some ble safety skills and have fun at Hug­A­Bear owner Patty Ray great prizes. the upcoming Hug a Bear Care said she believes it is important To learn more, contact Teri at Child Care and Learning Center for even the youngest children 970­901­7249. Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 5
Recreation as an Economic Driver...Cont. from page 1
center,” Sherbenou said, “but the community chose to go ahead with one. Before it was built, there were six private fitness providers in town. Now, they have a great com­
munity rec center, and there are 11 private recreational facilities there.” Public recreational facilities stim­
ulate a culture of health, he said, complementing rather than compet­
ing with private providers. “In Durango, it helped launch niche markets,” Sherbenou said. “Now they have places for single adults, and 24­hour facilities—
proving that a public facility can actually benefit the private sector.” A community rec center is intend­
ed serve multiple purposes, and to offer diverse amenities, he noted. A typical center might have a gym, a warm leisure pool, a cool lap pool, an indoor walking track and climb­
ing wall, and a fitness area or weight room. A multipurpose room for classes is also a key component. “One of the cool things is that a public rec center has something for every age and every interest,” Sher­
benou said. “Everybody needs activities outside of work and fami­
ly, and a rec center can fill that need. It is accessible to the whole family. You can go together, and everybody can do their own thing. It provides a safe environment, and you can be together.” Public rec centers can also be less intimidating for the populations most in need of recreation, he said. “What senior wants to go and work out in a facility where every­
one is seriously into pumping iron?” Sherbenou said. “When your only option is a private club where everyone is in killer shape, the peo­
ple who most need to be active and to work out can become discour­
aged. At a public facility, everyone is invited, and everyone is wel­
come.” A recent article in Money Maga­
zine highlighted America’s 100 most desirable places to live, and every single picture that accompa­
nied the article was related to a park or recreational resource, Sher­
benou said. A typical community facility is located next to sports fields to cre­
ate a recreational complex, he add­
ed, pointing out that now, Montrose has only an aquatic center—an ex­
pensive, single­use option that en­
courages parents to drop off kids and head elsewhere. Once the Montrose task force has reviewed the community’s needs and the role of a public rec facility, they will help determine what a local rec center would look like, and how it would be funded. A private consultant would help guide a feasibility study to comple­
tion, Sherbenou said. Aspects to be examined include site selection, facility size and design, amenities and component activities, construc­
tion costs, as well as operational costs and revenues. Construction cost management is critical, be­
cause public facilities that are able to recover such costs quickly have less need for public funding. “Funding will be our biggest chal­
lenge,” Sherbenou noted. “We are The Leisure pool at the Durango Rec Center (Courtesy Photo) currently saving 25 percent of our budget for our future capital needs.” Increasingly, community rec cen­
ters are designed to be self­
sustaining, he noted. “Our fees would probably be a little higher,” he said. “In Durango and in Fruita the fees are such that the centers are very close to being self­sustaining. In Durango, the Rec Center’s operational subsidy is less than $200,000a year—less than what it costs to run our aquatic cen­
ter right now.” “This is such a beautiful place,” he continued, “If we can augment our outdoor recreational offerings with indoor opportunities, a public rec center can become an engine for economic development. “We talk so much about how to bring people and jobs here, how to attract retirees. Well, retirees are looking for great activities. “We are already well­equipped in terms of natural appeal,” he said. “All we are lacking is a public rec center, something for people to do when it gets dark and cold outside.” Support business in your community! Join the
Montrose Association of Commerce & Tourism. Call
970­249­5000 to learn more, or visit the web site
www.montroseact.com.
Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 6
MONTROSE ACT TRAINS COMMUNITY AMBASSADORS
“Attitude is every‐
thing—be authentic,
and love your com‐
munity!”
—Training Facilita‐
tor Sue Hansen
By Caitlin Switzer MONTROSE—For a visitor to Montrose, every point of contact is an opportunity to learn more about the community and what it has to offer. For Montrose resi­
dents, every opportunity to greet and share information with visit­
ing travelers means a chance to boost the local economy. That was the message—
delivered with high energy and good humor by Sue Hansen of Sue Hansen Speaks—at the First Annual Montrose Association of Commerce & Tourism Ambas­
sador training session at the Montrose Pavilion on May 9. “Everyone wants to feel wel­
come,” Hansen told the packed room. “But if we don’t know what’s going on, how can we direct people around our town? This is a good time to share the hidden gems of our communi­
ty.” Tourism creates jobs and brings money to Western Colo­
rado, but competition for tourist dollars is fierce, Hansen remind­
ed listeners before embarking on a series of interactive activities intended to enhance knowledge of the area and of local land­
marks, recreational opportunities and businesses. “In our community people are struggling,” she said. “We need to pull together, and sell not only our own stuff, but other people’s stuff. The more we know, the more we can steer our tourists.” Goals of the ambassador train­
ing were to help participants become more acquainted with Montrose, gain a better under­
standing of the importance of tourism dollars and how locals can influence “the money trail,” and to remind all of the im­
portance of connecting with peo­
ple who visit the area. “One person can make it or break it,” Hansen said, before pointing out that one extra night’s stay for a family of four brings $350 in revenue to Mont­
rose. Part of being a great com­
munity ambassador is getting out of your comfort zone, she said. “It’s not just what we have to offer, but com­
binations of things,” she point­
ed out, using the May 13­15 Wine Festival/Black Canyon Ascent and Mission to Ride weekend as an example of a well­planned and effective event strategy. Sometimes being a good ambassa­
dor means faking it, especially for those in the ser­
vice industries, she added. “Customers can be a big pain,” Hansen said. “But Training Facilitator Sue Hansen urged locals to “look deeper” at what Montrose has to offer. you control your attitude. You can make a difference! Put a smile on your face whether you want to or not! If you don’t love Montrose and can’t talk about how cool it is, if you don’t like being in the service industry, I strongly suggesting you find a new job.” Engaging visitors with face, words and knowledge is not always the easiest strategy, but it is by far the most effective when it comes to encouraging return visits, she said. “Part of our job is to smooth over bad experiences,” Hansen said. “Make things better when they reach YOUR point of con­
tact. “Attitude is everything—be authentic, and love your com­
munity!” Representatives of local busi­
nesses and organizations shared their own experiences during the morning­long session, and at times offered some sage advice, such as the importance of not sending tourists rafting or boat­
ing through the Black Canyon itself. “Those are Class Six rapids,” explained one BLM official, “and your visitors won’t come back. For more information about future Montrose Ambassador Training sessions, call the Montrose ACT at 970­249­
5000. Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 7
DO YOU REALLY UNDERSTAND YOUR OWN AUTO INSURANCE?
Montrose Farmers Insurance Agent Howard Davidson believes that, with better infor­
mation, clients can make better decisions. If you drive a car in Colorado, you are required to carry automobile insur­
ance—so chances are, you already have some type of policy in place. How well do you understand that policy? If you are involved in an accident, do you truly understand the level of personal risk you have chosen to bear? If you carry only the minimum liabil­
ity limits required by law, you are probably saving a few dollars on pre­
miums—and placing your future and that of your family in grave danger. Like most of us, I never gave much thought to levels of automobile insur­
ance limits before becoming an agent. Since opening my Farmers’ Insurance Agency (701 South Townsend Ave.), however, I have learned just how much risk is riding along with the average motorist. First question—do you actually know the liability limits you are covered for under your auto insurance policy? It is a huge risk to drive at Colorado’s legal minimum liability insurance lev­
els—I wouldn’t dream of taking a car on the road or allowing anyone in my family to drive with a policy that co­
vers less than $250,000 in bodily injury claims per person, $500,000 for bodily injury claims in the accident in total, and $100,000 for property damage to the other vehicle (250/500/100). And yet Colorado law requires only that drivers carry $25,000 in bodily injury claims, $50,000 for the accident in to­
tal, and $15,000 for property damage to the other vehicle (25/50/15). Let’s just say you back­end someone at a traffic light, and there were three people in the other car. All of them are now claiming whiplash, and have lost work. The average claim payout in such situations is in the hundreds of thousands. Without sufficient insurance coverage, you could lose everything you have ever worked for. Make no mistake; you are personally liable un­
less you have sufficient coverage, and the courts will make you pay. When you make the decision to go with a lower coverage limit, you are basically self­insuring—taking a higher level of risk upon yourself. Insurance agents warn clients away from relying on the minimum level of coverage poli­
cies for this reason, and because addi­
tional coverage is usually very inex­
pensive. Even if you have multiple cars, the difference in adding coverage might only be $50—and it well might be the best $50 you’ve ever spent. A cynical person might say that the insurance agent is just trying to make more money—but trust me, if I factor in the time taken to really explain this to my customer, I am not making mon­
ey on this! There are some companies—in partic­
ular those with large advertising budg­
ets and no local agents—that offer some very cheap, minimum­coverage policies. However, these policies are often not so inexpensive after all. Western Slope agents can offer policies in which risk levels are priced by zip code. With an out­of­area company that spends its money on aggressive advertising, you are often lumped in with the entire State, and you end up in a risk pool that includes drivers on the Eastern Slope. These companies are happy to sell you the lowest level of coverage required by law to reduce the premium and cov­
er their losses in Denver. Do you really want to pay for the accidents of Denver drivers? But as a Farmers Agent and an indi­
vidual with a conscience, I want you to know that you are not actually getting cheaper insurance—the prices are just structured differently. And you could be taking on an unacceptable level of personal risk if you don’t quite under­
stand. Howard Davidson Farmers Insurance Agency is located at 701 S. Townsend Ave in Montrose, and can be reached at 970­252­0076 or email at [email protected]. Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 8
Abbie’s Energy Answers
“A geothermal
system uses
between 25 and
50 percent less
electricity than
traditional
heating and
cooling
options,”
—FORE Alliance
Executive
Director Abbie
Vanderwist
Dear Abbie, Dear Building, You are correct—
geothermal heat pump systems do offer many benefits when it comes to heating and cooling your home. Besides taking up less space than more tradi­
tional heating and cooling systems, Geothermal Heat Pump Systems are both durable and reliable. Pip­
ing warranties last be­
tween 25 and 50 years, and the pumps themselves function for 20 years or more. In addition, any waste heat can be used to heat water, reducing your energy costs even further. Although a GHPS may be Montrose Electric Associa­
tion (DMEA). Furthermore, a geothermal system uses between 25 and 50 percent less electricity than tradi­
tional heating and cooling options. Opt for the water heating component to save even more energy and mon­
ey! Here is a link to learn more­­
http://rechargecolorado.com/
index.php/
residential_resources/
home_energy_savings_guid
es/geothermal/#quest4. We are newlyweds build­
ing our first home, and we want to make it as energy efficient as possible. My wife and I have heard that geothermal heat pumps provide excellent heating and cooling, and are better Best Regards, for the environment. However, we have heard that these systems can be Abbie Vanderwist expensive. Are there ways Executive Director, FORE we can offset the cost? pricey to install, you or your Alliance 970­240­1272 Building a Bright Future contractor can apply for a www.forealliance.org rebate through Delta­
FORE Alliance: Developing community‐based resources; Facilitating regional collaboration; Promoting the cost‐effective use of energy and natural resources. www.rechargecolorado.org Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 9
REGIONAL NEWS BRIEFS
RIDGWAY RESIDENTS OPPOSE FAMILY DOLLAR STORE
RIDGWAY—The prospect of a Family Dollar store going into the Trail Town business district East of Highway 550 has some Ridgway residents scrambling to preserve the mom and pop char­
acter of the local business com­
munity. Earlier this month developers filed a building permit applica­
tion with the Town of Ridgway to construct an 8,000 square­foot store on Palomino Trail. While the proposed building appears to meet town require­
ments, it is not a good fit for Ridgway, local businesswoman Susan “Lupita” Baker said. Baker has been helping to or­
ganize opposition to the project among local residents. “I can only speak for myself,” Baker said. “But I don’t think we need chain stores here. There are not many places like this left, a charming village sur­
rounded by natural beauty, with individually­owned businesses that allow you to support your friends and neighbors.” Ridgway resident John Metcalf is also among those who have expressed opposition to the pro­
ject, stating that corporately­
owned chain stores take dollars out of the community, and busi­
ness away from local shops. While her own boutique, Lu­
pita’s Bizarre Bazaar (380 Sher­
man St.), is well established, Baker said that she worries for the character of Ridgway’s small, eclectic shopping dis­
tricts. “This is such a special place,” she said. “Many of us came here because of what it didn’t have.” Baker said while that she knows the Family Dollar store meets local zoning parameters and has “use by right,” she also believes that strong local opposition could influence the developer. “I am suggesting to others that Some Ridgway residents and busi­
ness owners do not feel a Family Dollar store is a good fit for the town. if they don’t want this here they should email the developer,” she said. “If he gets hundreds of letters, perhaps it will make a difference. “I feel strongly that that type of business has no place in such a gorgeous area,” she said. “We need to revise our master plan, to keep this kind of thing from coming here in the future.” A Family Dollar store has been proposed in Norwood as well. Want to reach
more than
3,200 readers
across the
Western Slope?
Advertise in
CEDAREDGE—They’re getting a late start bottling this year, but Shawn and Janice Carney’s popular Blossomwood Cidery (just follow the hwy signs), which produces English and French –style hard ciders from a variety of apples, expects to open for the sea­
son in the next few weeks. the Montrose
Mirror!
“There are not
many places like
this left...with in‐
dividually‐owned
businesses that
allow you to sup‐
port your friends
and neighbors.”
—Ridgway
Business owner
Susan “Lupita”
Baker
Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 10
TRIBUTE TO WESTERN MOVIES SADDLES UP!
across the country, many of dramatic his­
torical significance. “We have some rare, rare artifacts here,” Museum Director and Board President Rich Fike said. “Things like Bat Master­
son’s gun, Sitting Bull’s chaps. But in our vault we’ve got something even more ex­
citing. We have two tin photos of Abra­
ham Lincoln—and one of them may well be the oldest photo of Lincoln that sur­
vives.” Museum volunteer Chuck Richey, a direct descendant, will play Lincoln during the Tribute to Western Movies, which drew visitors from across America and 22 dif­
ferent countries in 2010. “We’re going to have three times as many this year,” Fike said, noting that his volunteers have trained 58 tour guides so far. And while outside interest continues to run high, with televisions and radio sta­
tions calling nearly as frequently as tour­
ists, the local community should also be Museum of the Mountain West Board President Rich Fike and Cousin Bob Schmidt belly up aware of ways in which they can help nur­
to the bar in the Museum’s old­time saloon. The Museum of the Mountain West will host its ture this fascinating historical attraction. Second Annual Tribute to Western Movies Days June 18­19. “We need energetic volunteers who want MONTROSE—Calls are starting to ring in um of the Mt. West board member Mari­
to pass the message of history on to the from across the country and around the lyn Cox said. “It’s such a family event, young folks,” Fike said. world, as the Museum of the Mountain and it’s so exciting to see what has been “There are a few young people who are West gears up for its Second Annual Trib­ going on at the Museum for the past cou­ really interested in history—and the story ute to Western Movies Festival June 18­
ple of years. As I like to say, when it needs to be told. Who better to tell it than 19. The Museum, located at 68169 East comes to history, there’s always some­
the local population?” Miami Road, has achieved widespread thing new!” The Museum explains the history of recognition both for its extensive collec­
In addition to bringing locals and visitors Western Colorado by exploring the differ­
tion and for its knowledgeable staff and out for a great time, the Tribute may also ent themes of the Old West, from explora­
volunteers. This year’s Tribute to Western help to revive an industry in which West­ tion and settlement to transportation and Movies” will feature James Drury and the ern Colorado once featured prominently, agriculture, he said. cast of “The Virginian,” on Saturday, as she added. “Montrose was a hub for mining in the well as Grammy award winning country “There used to be a lot of movie compa­ San Juans,” Fike said. “As a freight desti­
singer Lynn Anderson in concert at the nies coming to the area,” Cox said. “We nation it contributed t the expansion and Montrose Pavilion on Sunday. The week­ would like to see that happen again.” settlement of the area.” end will also feature live music, arts and The Museum of the Mountain West and Fike said that he hopes the Museum can crafts, food vendors, flint knapping the recreated Western town of Adobe Flats eventually encompass a research center, demonstrations, blacksmithing, carriage depicts the 100­year span between 1840 exhibit hall and auditorium. rides and gunfights. and 1940. To learn more about this year’s Tribute to “We are so excited for this year,” Muse­ The collection itself contains items from Western Movies, call 970­249­7015. G" $ %ea( )* $ +,ea- loc12 st)56? C)ntacT;< M)n>ro@< MA5r)B a- m)n>ro@DEA5r)B@+mGH2 .c)J!
Page 11
Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
BOY SCOUT TROOP 478 TO
DISPLAY FLAGS FOR HOLIDAYS
MONTROSE­­For a suggested do­
nation of $35 dollars for the year, Boy Scouts from Montrose Troop 478 will display a beautiful 3’ x 5’ United States flag in front of your home for Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Vet­
erans’ Day or Presidents’ Day 2012. The Boy Scouts will set flags up early in the morning and take them down in the evening at the Cobble Creek, Vista San Juan/Rainbow Meadow & ‘Old’ English Gardens subdivisions. We are also targeting businesses along Townsend Avenue and the business and residential members residing within the Downtown De­
velopment Authority (DDA) in Montrose. Please contact Troop 478 at BSA­
[email protected] with any questions. WHOLE LIFE FUSION SPARKS LIFESTYLE CHANGES MONTROSE­­The Whole Life Net­
work brings a transforming lifestyles event to the Montrose Pavilion on May 28 from 10 am to 9 pm. It will be a day and evening filled with information on lifestyle changes at the Expo; forums, films and panels to give you resources and tools; an art show to spark your creativity; a fashion show of re­useable styles and a way to make new accessories out of duct tape; dancing to soothe your spirit; drumming to free your soul; and a Hope for Humanity Con­
cert to give you hope. Admission to the Expo, Art Show and Forums is free to the public. The Expo, Art Show and events close at 5 pm to make way for the exciting Hope for Humanity Concert in the auditorium beginning at 7 pm. This is a benefit concert to support local and global groups. This year proceeds will go to Habitat for Humanity, locally and Japan Relief globally. The concert features four remarka­
ble acts: Jandriel, Yvonne Meek, David and Tamara Hauze, and Gotta Be Girls. Tickets for the concert are $10 and can be purchased at the Pavilion or by calling 970­252­
0908. Call 970­275­5791 or 970­209­6837
for Ad rates and information.
Great U.S. 50 Yard Sale Coming to Montrose! Special to the Mirror MONTROSE­­On Saturday, May 21st, the 12th Annual Great U.S. 50 Yard Sale is calling Main Street home for the day. This spring event, being put on by the Retail Enhancement Council and the Montrose Association of Com­
merce & Tourism, will be open to the public from 8 am to 2 pm. Main Street will be closed from Townsend Avenue to Park Avenue for the yard sale. Citizens of Montrose, non­profits and businesses are all invited to par­
ticipate. “If we all plan to vend our goods and services on the same day, not only will we have a ridiculously good time but we’ll be able to attract many more buyers than if we were to each venture out on our own,” said Melanie Kline, owner of Ouray Silversmiths and Retail Enhance­
ment Council Member. Each space will be roughly 15ft x 15ft and will be reserved on a first come, first serve basis. The cost of each space is $10.00 and pre­registration is required. Register for a space at the Mont­
rose ACT office located at 1519 East Main Street. Registration forms are also availa­
ble online at www.montroseACT.com. The Montrose Association of Com­
merce & Tourism represents the areas of Tourism Promotion, the Chamber of Commerce and Retail Enhancement. For more information about this event, please contact the Montrose Association of Commerce & Tour­
ism at 249­5000 or visit us online at www.montroseACT.com. Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 12
Volunteers of America...Serving the needs of Western Colorado
Volunteers of America is a 115­year­old, faith­based non­profit that has been serving Western Colorado for more than 30 years. Always on the lookout for unmet community needs, Volunteers of America has established a solid presence in Montrose and Delta counties. Becoming one of the largest providers of health care, housing and human service pro­
grams in the nation came naturally for this organization, whose core mission is “Go where we are needed and do what comes to hand.” Nationally we have programs serving every possible human service need, programs such as homeless shelters, Head Start, meals on wheels and workforce re­entry. Volunteers of America also tackles tough issues like domestic violence, drug addiction, family homelessness, adult education and prison support programs­­believing that a hand up, not a hand out is often the way out of poverty. Volunteers of America first impacted Montrose in 1980 with the purchase of Valley Manor Care Center. Today, a visitor to Valley Manor will find a newly remodeled building with a very progressive and dedicated staff. It is all about culture change at Valley Manor these days; listening to what the residents want means being flexible and open to new ideas. Giving people as many choices as possible while valuing individuality and preserving dignity are the keys to quality care at Valley Manor. Montrose Rehabilitation is also housed on this campus with a steady eye on the changing needs of rehab patients. The rehabilitation Center looks like a hotel, but don’t be mistaken; it is all about the therapy and nursing care here, with top­
notch therapists and nurses dedicated to getting patients home as quickly as possible. Valley Manor also has two private hospice rooms and an R.N. massage therapist leads the pain management team. In 1984, Volunteers of America expanded services to Delta County with the purchase of Horizons Care Center. Today this is a sprawling campus providing retirement housing, a senior mobile home park, skilled nursing care, secure memory care, rehabilitation and a PACE program in addition to the warehouse for Senior CommUnity Meals. Horizons Care Center focuses on creating a peaceful homelike environment­­something that is easy to do in this beautiful country setting. The people who work here are dedicated to providing compassionate care; here, residents are family. In 2002 Volunteers of America launched Home Health of Western Colorado to help support people in their homes. To­
day this program serves people of all ages in Montrose and Delta counties and is one of the state’s largest parent provid­
er programs. This program provides training, support, supervision and wages to the parents of severely disabled chil­
dren, allowing those parents to help support the family while caring for the special needs of their children. This program is also a mainstay for people with disabilities or acute medical conditions, for the elderly and for those recovering from accident or illness who want to stay at home. The Homestead at Montrose Assisted Living opened its doors in 2003. With its great views and convenient location it is a wonderful lifestyle option for seniors. It’s all about providing great service with a balanced approach that empowers residents to be as independent as possible. Great amenities, attentive staff and always something fun going on­­and someone else does the cleaning and yard work! What could be better? Going where we are needed and doing what comes to hand. Page 13
Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
SIMMER HEATS UP
By Caitlin Switzer MONTROSE—“Date night is back!” Montrose Chef/Sommelier Donn Wagner knew that his new restau­
rant, Simmer Food & Wine (320 E. Main St.) had found an appreciative local niche when he heard these words from a satisfied customer. Although it has been open only a few months, Simmer has already earned a reputation for eclectic, creative cuisine and friendly, knowledgeable service. After all, Wagner and his wife Keithley had years of experi­
ence with their former restaurant, Cazwellas, to draw on. “We really listened to our custom­
ers, and the biggest thing we heard is that people did not want to eat in a drinking establishment,” Wagner said. “We have regulars who like to enjoy dinner by themselves, so in addition to our dining room we cre­
ated the Simmer Room, where peo­
ple can enjoy a special menu and gather with friends. It has been a great thing—this way, the dining room is really a dining room.” The food at Simmer is Contempo­
rary American with a Mediterranean flair—with lighter offerings in the Simmer Room, and a complete din­
ner menu in the Dining Room. With summer fast approaching, Wagner said he looks forward to the return of the Montrose Farmers Mar­
ket to Downtown later this month. “Our menu changes every day,” he said. “I cook with whatever is sea­
sonal, and I put the specials on a Simmer Chef/Sommelier Donn Wagner serves Lita Sargent as Peter O'Brian and Frank Sargent look on during the 8th Annual Montrose Wine & Food Fes­
tival on May 15. Photo by Lu Anne Tyrrell. blackboard out front. I generally create something special for the Sim­
mer Room. We have wine tastings every Thursday night, where we pick six wines and then create our Sim­
mer menu so that all the wines can be paired. It’s a great chance to come in for an affordable wine dinner.” Diners with special dietary needs are always catered to, Wagner said. “I have always been a person who pays attention to the nutrient side of food,” he said. “Our gluten­free menu is very important, and we al­
ways have a vegetarian plate—
depending on what is in the market, we could have five, six, seven differ­
ent things.” Community events are welcome at Simmer as well; in June the restau­
rant will host Relay for Life, and in October Wagner plans to host an invitation­only trunk showing for luxury menswear retailer Adrisen Morton. Families are also very welcome at Simmer, where the children’s menu includes items like fresh potato chips and other seasonal delights. “It’s always kids’ night here,” Wagner said. Simmer is open from 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Call 970­252­1152 for reservations or info. DYNAMIC MOVEMENT LLC TO HOST FITNESS EVALUATION EVENT, MAT SERIES MONTROSE­­Improve your strength & flexibility at Dynamic Movement LLC., with our New six­Week Pilates Mat Series, which runs 5/23 thru 6/30. Please call for days/times. We are also hosting a Fitness Evaluation Event from 8:30 a.m. until 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 4, at the Montrose High School Track and Field, with Aerobic Fitness, Muscle Strength & Endurance , Flexibility, Balance and Mobility. The cost is $20. Those who sign up for the fitness evaluation can also apply the fee toward an Introductory Package or Mat Series at Dynamic Move­
ment, LLC. This offer expires July 31. Be sure to watch for future events at Dynamic Movement Pilates, includ­
ing Friday Night Foot Spa, Pre/Post Natal Fitness, Senior Fitness Series and Body Composition Screening. Please call Certified Personal Trainer and Pilates Instructor Minette Pool at 970­249­9993 for more information. Page 14
Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
COURT REQUESTS THAT COUNTY/HOSPITAL
EXPLORE SETTLEMENT OPTIONS
MONTROSE­­After four days of testimony, District Judge Jeff Herron asked both sides in the litigation between Montrose Me­
morial Hospital and Montrose County to make another effort to settle the case prior to a ruling. From the beginning of this con­
flict, the Board of County Com­
missioners (BOCC) have worked to settle this dispute outside of court, and at Judge Herron's re­
quest, the BOCC is again willing to sit down at the table with the Montrose Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees and attempt to mediate a resolution acceptable to both sides. "We participated in informal negotiations in November and in formal mediation on December 14, 2010 in Denver by the Judi­
cial Arbiter Group, but a solution was not reached," said County Commissioner David White. "If the Hospital Board of Trustees is willing, we will again make every attempt to reach a solution as re­
quested by the Judge." concluded White. Montrose Memorial Hos­
pital is a significant asset to the people of Montrose County who have funded, through county allo­
cations, certain operations of the hospital for many years to provide needed health care to residents in the Montrose area. As the elected governing officials of Montrose County, the Commissioners have a fiduciary duty to protect public assets and to consider input from all residents of the County. MMH SPONSORS WESTERN SLOPE
ONCOLOGY CONFERENCE
Oncology Conference. Prominent specialists from the University of Colorado Cancer Center ad­
dressed the most prevalent types of cancer seen on the Western Slope, providing the very latest information on everything from prevention, screening and detec­
tion, to treatment, including new drugs and clinical trials. Dr. Anthony Elias spoke about breast cancer, Dr. Karl Lewis cov­
ered melanoma, Dr. Paul Bunn discussed lung cancer, Dr. Mi­
chael Glode, prostate cancer, and Dr. Stephen Leong, colorectal cancer. The conference was open to any interested health care pro­
viders and attendees came from Pictured Left to Right: Marva Victor, RN; Dr. Paul Bunn; Dr. Michael all over the Western Slope. It re­
Glode; Dr. Robert Kilbourn; Dr. Anthony Elias; Dr. Stephen Leong; Out­
inforced the reputation of the San reach Patient Coordinator Shelly Gregory; and Dr. Karl Lewis. Juan Cancer Center as a major player in complete cancer care and highlighted its affiliation with MONTROSE—On May 6, 2011, the San Juan Cancer Center host­ the University of Colorado Can­
Montrose Memorial Hospital and ed the first annual Western Slope cer Center. Page 15
Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Lu’s News & Reviews...Out and About with Lu Anne Tyrrell
Visiting a“Green” Business—
Ouray’s Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs
comed, and my tour of one of Ouray’s most popular lodging facilities began. I was not there as a guest, but rather as a local curious about the “green” updates the Averys have undertaken since pur­
chasing the Lodge in 2007. As we walked and talked, I learned that the Lodge had been built in 1959, on a site once considered sacred to the Ute Indians. In 1930, the spot was home to the Croger Sanitarium, a refuge where visitors came to soak and partake of the springs’ curative powers. Rich and Karen are former Denverites who grew weary of the city and yearned for a quieter life. In 2007, they turned their dream into reality. Their years in the business world, combined with Rich’s engineering expertise and an interest in “green” technology, proved to be a natu­
As I drove Highway 550 to Ouray last ral fit when it came to updating and oper­
week to visit Rich and Karen Avery at ating a cherished community resource. the Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs Today, the Box Canyon Lodge exploits (45 3rd Ave.), the scenery was brilliant as the use of geothermal resources with its only springtime in the San Juans can be, natural, on­site hot springs. The day I with tree buds exploding in vivid green visited, a slightly overcast sky gave the everywhere. A light dusting of snow steam rising from the earth an ethereal from a storm earlier in the day made the look. Rich led Karen and I up the stairs vista “picture perfect.” to the natural hot springs/earth warming Upon my arrival I was warmly wel­
area (see picture), where water emerges at about 140 degrees Fahr­
enheit. From there, the water is channeled through piping to the hot tub and for use in the rooms, showers and laundry facilities. In 2009, the Avery’s completed a substantial upgrade to the buildings. Today, the majority of their water is heated by geothermal resources, while a good portion of the heat in the buildings is derived from the geo­
thermal springs. Thanks to recent improvements, Karen and Rich Avery have made numerous “green” improve­
ments at their Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs in Ouray. the Box Canyon Lodge Ouray’s natural hot springs have offered respite to weary travelers since the days of the Ute Indians. The Box Canyon Lodge uses the natural hot waters as a geothermal heat source. has reduced its natural gas consumption by 70 percent since 2007. Rich and Karen have received a $10,000 USDA grant that will be used to help fund a $40,000 water project in which they are partnering with the City of Ouray and the Best Western Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs (125 3rd Ave), and have also installed energy­efficient light bulbs, low flow systems for toilets and showers, and a towel/line reuse program at the Lodge I am not the only one fascinated to see available natural resources used in such an efficient way—their efforts to “green” a local landmark have earned Rich and Karen a “Four Key” rating from Green Key, a well­known eco­rating program. To learn more about Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs, give Karen and Rich a call at 970­325­5080, or visit them online at www.boxcanyonouray.com . Like me, I am sure you will be inspired by their environmental commitment, and will look forward to seeing other area businesses take steps to lower their carbon footprint. See you around town—or maybe in the mountains! Lu Anne
Lu Anne is Business Development Director for
The Montrose Mirror...Contact her at
[email protected].
Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 16
OUT AND ABOUT IN MONTROSE!
Ridgway residents Talulah and Levi Kroschel enjoyed time together at the Montrose Wine & Food Fest Saturday. Photo by Lu Anne Tyr­
rell. It was a gorgeous opening day for the Montrose Farmers Market May 14...here, shoppers enjoy the delightful wares of TRASHeBags. The Montrose Geneological Society en­
joyed a successful parking lot sale and fundraiser on Friday, May 6. Dr. Mary Vader holds a six­day­old goat owned by Kimberly Johnston of MIM (Made in Montrose) ­ BY ­ KIM during the opening day of Farmers Market in downtown Montrose on May 14. Photo by Lu Anne Tyrrell. One of the world famous Lipizzaner stallions performing at the Mont­
rose Fairgrounds on May 13. Photo by Lu Anne Tyrrell. Want to get the word out about your event, organization or political campaign?
Hire the Montrose­based PR firm with real­world professional experience!
Caitlin Switzer—[email protected]
Beverly Corbell—[email protected]
Yvonne Meek—[email protected]
Dave Segal—[email protected]
Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 17
MORE OUT AND ABOUT IN MONTROSE!
Marcus and Kara Caudill and Dave and Zoe Werden of the Blue­
grass band Alternate Route play during the May 7 Pickin’ & Dancin' fund raiser honoring the 20th Anniversary of Habitat for Humanity in Montrose County. Photo by Lu Anne Tyrrell. Robert and Valerie Meyers looking over the colorful painted hors­
es be auctioned off at the Second Annual Kentucky Derby Days fund raiser for Volunteers of America. Over 100 people attended the May 7th event in which raised over 6,000 for the VOA Meals on Wheels program. Photo by Lu Anne Tyrrell. On May 7, Montrose Walgreens hosted a number of the local artisans and artists who display their local made products in the store’s Made in Montrose section. Pictured from left to right are author Gayle Saunders, photographer Vince Farns­
worth, Western Reflections Publishing Founder and retired Ouray Judge David P. Smith, author Keith Koch and author Dave Casler. Photo by Lu Anne Tyrrell. A cavalcade of color surrounds customers at Camelot Gardens as they choose new starts for gardening season. Photo by Lu Anne Tyrrell. Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 18
Montrose County Planning Commission Asks Property Owners To Help Mitigate Selenium In an effort to raise awareness regarding the presence of selenium in our local soils, Montrose County Planning Com­
mission and the Board of County Commissioners are asking property owners to help mitigate selenium by following a few best management practices. Selenium is a naturally occurring element that’s widely distributed in rocks, soils, water and living organisms. In the western United States, it’s most common in marine sedimentary deposits like the Mancos shale which is common throughout the Uncompahgre Valley. Some soil types in Montrose County contain relatively high levels of soluble selenium, which can be flushed out of the soils and into local waterways. Locally, it has been shown that deep percolation from irrigation, large quantities of groundwater movement, and other sources may increase selenium concentrations in streams, ponds, reservoirs, lakes and wetland areas. There’s some evidence which indicates that high levels of selenium may cause reproductive failures and deformities in fish and aquatic birds. If amounts of selenium were ingested over long periods of time, several health effects could oc­
cur, including brittle hair, deformed nails and, in extreme cases, loss of feeling and control in arms and legs. In response to this evidence, the State Water Quality Control Commission adopted a 4.6 parts per billion (ppb) standard for the Gun­
nison River Basin in July of 1997. Upstream from the major irrigated areas in the Colorado River Basin, including the Gunnison and Uncompahgre River Basins, selenium concentrations are generally less than 1 ppb, but downstream from irrigated areas, the selenium concentrations in surface waters often exceed the state standard. Selenium levels in the low­
er Uncompahgre and lower Gunnison Rivers have exceeded the 4.6 ppb since the standard was put in place, although selenium levels in these waterways have been significantly reduced over the past decade. Actions taken to reduce the level of selenium in the Uncompahgre Valley and Gunnison Basin include lining of canals and laterals by local water providers such as the Uncompahgre Valley Water Users Association (UVWUA), and the for­
mation of many working groups and task forces. The Gunnison Basin Selenium Task Force is one such group that is dedicated to researching and addressing the selenium issue in Montrose and surrounding counties. If selenium standards in the Gunnison Basin continue to exceed state and/or federal standards, there’s a possibility that federal agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service may take further action to mitigate selenium. Residential property owners can individually help to mitigate selenium by following these best management practices:  Avoid overwatering lawns and landscaping;  Line ponds and other water retention features;  Pipe or line open irrigation ditches;  Install efficient irrigation systems with timers;  Consider xeriscaping (landscaping which does not require significant watering). The Montrose County Planning Commission will continue to monitor and keep citizens and stakeholders informed about this important issue. A map showing potential selenium concentrations in Montrose County is available on the County website at: www.montrosecounty.net/seleniummap. Please Note­­The Board of Montrose County Commissioners will hold a public meeting on Tuesday evening, May 31 st at 6:30 p.m. at Friendship Hall (1001 N. 2nd St.) to discuss the dispute with the Montrose County Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees regarding their attempt to transfer the hospital’s assets to a private non­profit corporation. The Commissioners wish to discuss their position regarding this matter and explain the actions that have been taken to seek common ground to resolve the differ­
ences between the two parties. The public and the media are encouraged to attend. Montrose Mirror, 5‐18‐11
Page 19
Page 20
Montrose Mirror 5‐18‐11
Arts & Culture Roundup
Oil and plein­air artist Toni Woodrum, wood carver Terry Lowell and gallery owner Bob Brown during the guest artists reception at Around the Corner Art Gal­
lery on May 7. Director of Nursing Pam Brim of Volunteers of America/Valley Manor Care Center sports a brilliant Derby Days hat during the Second Annual Kentucky Derby Days fund raiser for Vol­
unteers of America. More than 100 people attended the May 7th event in which raised over 6,000 for the VOA Meals on Wheels program. PAX TO HOLD ALL DAY CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS ON AUG. 27
MONTROSE—Public Art eXperi­
ence (PAX ) has scheduled its 2011 Gala Event for Saturday, Aug. 27 in Centennial Plaza. Unlike past PAX Galas, this year’s event will be an all­day celebration of the arts. The Montrose Farmers Market will be Downtown as well, providing op­
portunities for family fun and com­
munity involvement. “We’re going to have all kinds of activities, food vendors, wonderful sculpture, and entertainment throughout the day,” PAX Co­Chair Michelle Young said. PAX will also welcome locals to create wheeled sculptures for a promenade around Centennial Pla­
za. The best wheeled sculpture will win a small cash prize. PAX, which coordinates a yearly sculpture display Downtown, is a subcommittee of the Montrose As­
sociation of Commerce & Tourism (MACT) in partnership with the City of Montrose. All works of sculpture on loan through PAX are offered for sale to the public. Over the past five years, PAX has contributed $46,350 worth of sculp­
tures to the City’s permanent sculp­
ture collection. The most recent PAX acquisitions are Montrose art­
ist Jerry Dunbar’s “Buddies,” and Ridgway Sculptor Michael McCullough’s “Red Fox.” PAX PATRONS include the City of Montrose, Four Seasons Invest­
ment Advisors, Montrose Associa­
tion of Commerce & Tourism (Montrose ACT), Around the Corner Art Gallery and Wells Fargo Bank. Sponsors include Montrose Arts Council, Montrose Daily Press, Mountain Valley Fish and Oyster, Inc. and the Montrose Community Foundation. PAX sculptures have been donated to the community by Montrose Arts Coun­
cil, Carl Michael Short, Warren and Michelle Young and Montrose ACT. For more information contact 2011 Co­Chairs Michelle Young at 970­
240­3031 or Caroline Lescroart at 970­209­3191, or visit the web site at www.cityofmontrose.org/art. Page 21
Montrose Mirror 5‐18‐11
Small Businesses Can Access Funding Through Region 10
MONTROSE—So you have a local banks, but to provide an great business, but you’re just alternative. Banks have different getting started and you’re caught restrictions than Region 10 does, in a cash­flow crunch…Region 10 so there are times when Region can help! Region 10 is one of our 10 can assist your business when area’s best kept secrets. If you’re a bank says “NO!” a typical small business and strug­ Region 10 still requires you to gling to find someone to loan you provide a business plan along the cash you need to expand your with sales projections and anal­
operation, purchase new equip­
yses, and to prove credit­
ment, or whatever your business worthiness when seeking loan might need, give Region 10 a call. funding. “We are here for you,” Region “Give us a call,” Fandel said. 10 Business Loan Fund Director “We are a micro lender, with ac­
Vince Fandel said. “”We can help cess to Small Business Admin­
your small business with issues istration (SBA) Micro Loan like cash flow, expansion needs funds, state economic develop­
and inventory acquisition. The ment funds, and other monies Region 10 Business Loan Fund is available through the United not designed to compete with States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) and through internal sources.” Region 10 League for Economic Assistance and Planning is a six­
county (Montrose, Delta, Gun­
nison, Ouray, Hinsdale and San Miguel) non­profit organization that operates an Enterprise center (300 North Cascade) administers the Enterprise Zone tax credit and marketing grant programs, over­
sees the Area Agency on Aging (AAA), coordinates regional transportation planning, and of­
fers a loan program for small business. To learn more about Region 10, call 970­249­2436 or visit the web site at www.region10.net. Montrose Mirror 5‐18‐11
Page 22
Legislative Update
Senator Ellen Roberts
By midnight on Wednesday of this week, the legislative session will be concluded. Bills not passed by that time will have to wait another year. Whether we’ll have reached agreement on a common redistrict­
ing map remains to be seen and, if we don’t reach that goal by Wednesday, it’s still possible the governor could call the legislature into a special session this sum­
mer to get the job done. I mentioned last week that the two par­
ties’ maps were so different that I doubted we’d find that common ground in the short time remaining. In the meantime, maps are being redrawn and, thankfully, the Western Slope appears to have been pieced back together in both of them. However, there isn’t yet a common map maintaining the rural Eastern Plains as a “community of interest” and legislators from that region remain deeply troubled for the same reason I objected to the Western Slope being carved up. In a state like Colorado where the popula­
tion centers are greatly concentrated in a relatively few urban centers, those in outly­
ing areas like the Western Slope and East­
ern Plains live with much different con­
cerns, issues and values than that of the urban corridor we call the Front Range. Insisting on keeping these rural regions whole isn’t about being parochial or stand­
offish. The historical use of a “communities of interest” standard in set­
ting congressional boundaries is important for the necessary wisdom and advocacy that an elected representative must have to be effective and to truly reflect his or her congressional district. If this matter goes to a judge to sort out, I hope this critical standard is applied. Each year as the legislature adjourns from its frantic 120 day session, the people in the Capitol who work there year round must have a deep sense of relief as we head back out to our respective communities around the state. After five years of serv­
ing and having now experienced both the House and Senate chambers, I don’t blame them as we need the space from each other, too! Despite the inevitable pressure cooker that is the General Assembly, each legisla­
tor has the opportunity to go home now knowing more about the state as a whole because of having spent this time with our colleagues from around the state. After each session, I’m better educated as to the issues facing these Coloradans and, hope­
fully, they know more about the challenges in Southwest Colorado. I’ve enjoyed getting to know my fellow senators and we’ll continue to work on committees and attend meetings during the interim as we experience more directly what we discussed during the session. Next January, we’ll be back at it in what will likely be another difficult budget year. But, in the meantime, I know I’ll enjoy being with my family and friends in the best region of the state. These columns will now change to being written once a month rather than weekly as during the session, but I’m only a phone call or email away. 5­8­11 Senator Roberts sends regular legislative updates to the Montrose Mirror. Contact her at (303) 866­4884 HONORABLE MENTION… The Montrose Mirror sends our regards to the following individuals and organizations: To Our Montrose Mirror advertisers, sponsors, and readers, thank you! To Dr. George Voorhis, retiring Montrose County School District Re­1J Superintendent—you have done so much for our community and for local schools! To Sheree Frede and the dedicated staff of SheShe Boutique & Gallery (340 E. Main St in Montrose)—
excellent customer service, wonderful clothes, and a heart for the community—and their benefit fashion shows to raise money for worthy causes are FUN, FUN, FUN! To Michelle Young, Caroline Lescroart and the Public Art eXperience Committee—for coordinating the May 6 public sculpture tour for Pomona Elementary students, and for bringing quality works of art to Down­
town Montrose for the past five years! To Priscilla Fry, formerly of Travelin’ Tots, and now Beall’s (2201 S. Townsend Ave.)—for outstanding customer service, with the personal touch. Montrose Mirror 5‐18‐11
Page 23
8TH Annual Montrose Wine & Food Festival
May 14, 2011 Colleen Geary of Kids Aid was happy to help out on the big day. Kids Aid, which provides supplemental meals for local school kids who might otherwise go hungry, is one of this year’s festival beneficiaries. Zumba ladies and Z Fitness owners Jenni Malone and Michelle Downey strike a pose in Centennial Plaza, where they held a Hospice Benefit before the Wine Festival. Jim Ritter of Republic Nation Distributing pours his wine to eager attendee Linda Nadel and Wine Fest sponsors, Allison Nadel and Julie Osborne of Alpine Bank. Photo by Lu Anne Tyrrell. Artist Gina Grundemann proudly displays her contest winning poster entry to Lynette Bean, Wine Fest board member. Photo by Lu Anne Tyr­
rell. The Montrose Mirror
Region 10 Enterprise Center
300 North Cascade
Suite G‐2
Montrose, CO 81401
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MONTROSE—The Montrose community honored those who have fallen and those who have been wounded in the line of service during the first Law Enforcement Of­
ficer's Memorial Service held in the Montrose County Courthouse on May 11. The ceremony was well­attended by the community, by representatives of local law enforce­
ment agencies and of Montrose County, the City of Montrose and the office of Con­
gressman Scott Tipton. The ceremony ended with a 21 gun salute. Photo by Lu Anne Tyrrell. Hold the Date! Upcoming Business & Cultural Events Ongoing—First Mondays of each month, Civil Citizens Gathering at the Red Barn, 5 p.m. Informal Discussion of Montrose issues; Mondays, Chi Gung and T’ai Chi with Elizabeth Roscoe, 5:15 to 6: 30 p.m., Meadowlark Court, 2378 Robins Way. Call 970­249­0397 to learn more. May 18—Coffee Hour at Heidi’s Brooklyn Deli (1521 Oxbow Dr.) Presentation by John Reams of Reams Construction on the Uranium ill in the West End. Coffee is $1. May 21—San Juan Health Care Foundation Ninth Annual Golf Tournament at Black Canyon Golf Course. Four person scramble, signup deadline is May 20. Registration from 8 to 8:30 a.m., 9 a.m. shotgun start. May 21—Ute Indian Museum (17253 Chipeta Rd.) Hosts Comedy Night at the Montrose Pavilion, 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door, and can be purchased at the Museum or from a Museum board member. Call 970­
249­3098 for more information. May 24—Montrose ACT Business After Hours hosted by City of Montrose, Montrose Pavilion 5:30­8 p.m. Call 249­
5000 to RSVP. May 26—Community Tap Night at Horsefly Brewing Company, 6 to 9 p.m. to benefit Second Wind of the Uncom­
pahgre Plateau. May 28—Heritage Day at Pioneer Town in Cedaredge (at Hwy 62 Scenic Byway Welcome Center)—artisans and old time craftsmen display their skills. May 31—Montrose County Public Meeting re: Hospital litigation. Friendship Hall (1001 N. Second St.), 6:30 p.m. June 2—Main in Motion Season Opens! Downtown, 6 to 8:30 p.m. June 4—Dynamic Movement to host a Fitness Evaluation Event at the Montrose High School Track & Field, 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Cost is $20, which can be applied toward future classes at Dynamic Movement. Call 970­249­9993. June 10—The AARP/Walgreens Wellness Tour will be at Walgreens in Montrose ( 2351 S Townsend) from noon to 6 p.m. offering six free health tests valued at $100. Tests include total cholesterol levels, blood pressure, bone density, glucose levels, waist circumference and body mass index—all are available for adults age 18 and older and no appoint­
ment is necessary. June 18­19­Museum of the Mountain West “Tribute to Western Movies” welcomes cast members from “The Virginian” television show (1962­1971), including James Drury, as guests...and a special Sunday musical perfor­
mance at the Pavilion by Country Legend Lynn Anderson.