Montrose Fresh

Today: A new six-episode TV series, "Historic Montrose Colorado", is showcasing the people, businesses, and heritage of Montrose on national television through "RFD TV" and "Wild Rides Television". And later: Colorado’s new "Urban Agriculture Micro-grant Program" offers up to five-thousand dollars to local growers for small-scale projects that boost food production, conservation, and community engagement.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Susan Hoppes, once "Windy Point Jane Doe", was finally identified and tied to a con couple likely responsible for her death. And later... UNA is ready for winter, with full moon skis and family events planned—if enough snow falls to open the trails.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today: High school students in Colorado pitched their own businesses through the "Spark Lab" program, earning funding and mentorship to turn their ideas into action. And later: A gray wolf that strayed from Colorado into New Mexico was captured and returned as part of a multi-state effort to manage wolf populations and protect the endangered Mexican wolf.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A youth group from the "Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church" brought gifts and carols to children at "Haven House", spreading holiday cheer and learning the value of giving back. And later... Over two-hundred and fifty thousand Coloradans have enrolled in 2026 health plans through the state marketplace, with many still eligible for financial help despite rising premiums and the end of federal enhanced tax credits.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A months-long investigation by the "7th Judicial District Drug Task Force" led to the December arrests of two Montrose men accused of working with a shared supplier to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, with formal charges expected in January. And later... "The Nature Connection" is expanding winter programs like climbing nights and cross-country ski pop-ups, backed by over one-hundred thousand dollars in new grants to support staff and create teen-focused outdoor opportunities.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... "Montrose Regional Health" is seeking to delay an age discrimination lawsuit, arguing the EEOC hasn’t provided enough details to mount a defense, while the EEOC insists it met all legal requirements and says the case should proceed. And later... Santa is visiting Montrose ahead of Christmas to meet local kids, spread holiday cheer, and answer their favorite questions about Christmas magic, the "Nice List", and his surprising love for oatmealSupport the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The "Montrose Veterans Memorial Coalition" is working to raise the final three-hundred thousand dollars needed to complete a nine-hundred thousand dollar veterans memorial, after higher-than-expected costs delayed construction. And later... Jeremy Hepp, a fifty-three-year-old man from Colorado Springs, was found dead by suicide after being reported missing earlier that day.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose High School’s new dance team is uniting dedicated dancers from across local studios, giving them school recognition, community support, and opportunities for athletic and personal growth. And later... If you're heading into the Western Slope backcountry this winter, avalanche training is a must. Whether you're skiing, climbing, or splitboarding, knowing how to assess and navigate avalanche terrain can save your life.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... "The Play Does" improv troupe is bringing a spontaneous, comedic twist to "A Christmas Carol" with an unscripted performance at The Sherbino on December 17th, blending classic characters with live, in-the-moment storytelling. And later... “Mrs. Claus for a Cause” is a free, volunteer-run holiday event in Montrose from December 19th through 21st, offering kids gifts, activities, and inclusive fun for families, especially those with special needs.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County Commissioner Sean Pond claimed a September hit-and-run was intentional and blamed the “liberal Left,” citing law enforcement as his source — but all involved agencies deny ever suggesting the act was deliberate. And later... Avalanche education is essential for anyone venturing into Colorado’s snowy backcountry, teaching the skills to recognize risks, make safer decisions, and respond effectively in emergencies.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County commissioners passed flexible new regulations for power-generation facilities, ending a long moratorium and allowing solar projects with case-by-case oversight and public input. And later... This week in Montrose brings pet care clinics, a city budget forum, nature talks, a local book signing, Santa’s Cabin, and multiple performances of "The Polar Express" at the Pavilion.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... There’s been a shift in leadership on the Montrose County School Board. After years in the minority, Neisha Balleck now holds the gavel as board president, following a unanimous vote by her fellow members. And later... Middle Way Midwifery, led by licensed midwife Jaime Doty, offers personalized, full-spectrum care for low-risk pregnancies—including home births and postpartum support—now from a new location in downtown Montrose.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The United Methodist Church in Montrose has settled with the city over its backyard encampment for unhoused people, agreeing to probation and dropping appeals in exchange for dismissal of most citations and avoiding formal convictions. And later... Montrose kicked off the holiday season with a festive tree lighting downtown, and celebrations continue this weekend with the annual Vintage Christmas-themed "Parade of Lights".Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Unify Montrose is urgently seeking seventy-thousand dollars to keep the Lighthouse shelter open seven nights a week this winter, as zoning restrictions, rising demand, and delayed grant funding leave the city’s only legal overnight shelter at risk. And later... Metaphorse, a nonprofit in Montrose offers equine-assisted learning for people facing life’s toughest moments. Whether it’s trauma, addiction, or grief, the organization provides a space to reflect and reset—with the help of retired horses.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose celebrates the start of the holiday season with a “Vintage Christmas”-themed Small Business Saturday, featuring local shopping, festive activities, and community events that support small businesses. And later... Montrose kicks off its “Vintage Christmas” season this Friday with a tree-lighting ceremony and opening of Santa’s Cabin, followed by weekend festivities and the Parade of Lights on December 6th.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Kirstin Copeland has been sworn in as Montrose County Commissioner for District One, stepping into the role with a focus on urgent issues like the county budget and energy regulations. And later... The Colorado State Patrol is increasing holiday-week enforcement to curb speeding, aggression, and impaired driving, urging travelers to stay patient, stay alert, and keep Thanksgiving roads safe.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Western Colorado’s water crisis is intensifying, prompting urgent local dialogue on sustainable use, interstate pressure, and protecting rural communities amid mounting scarcity. And later... Scott Hawkins is stepping down as Montrose County’s emergency manager after six impactful years, during which he led major emergency initiatives and earned regional recognition for his service.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Region Ten has launched a mobile food trailer as part of its Business Cultivator program, giving aspiring entrepreneurs hands-on experience and training in the fast-growing mobile food industry. And later... The Montrose Community Thanksgiving Dinner urgently needs more volunteers and meal delivery requests ahead of its free holiday event serving thousands, with a sign-up deadline of noon on November 26th.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Colorado’s judicial discipline commission is seeking to remove San Miguel County Judge Sean Murphy over chronic delays, unprofessional courtroom behavior, and failure to respond to oversight. And later... A fifty-six-year-old Ridgway man, Colin Kimber, died from a suspected medical episode while ice climbing near Precipice Peak, and rescue teams conducted a complex recovery in the remote terrain.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose’s new San Juan Cancer Center Medical Oncology and Infusion Center expands local access to cancer care with more space, staff, and faster treatment. And later... Police say a Delta Middle School student was removed from campus and faces charges after allegedly using Discord and email to threaten twenty-seven classmates.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Paonia artist Seth Weber’s new Montrose City Hall mural blends painted and sculptural elements to celebrate the region’s landscape while reflecting his broader commitment to community-focused public art. And later... A rare and vivid display of the northern lights lit up Colorado’s Western Slope Tuesday night due to a strong solar storm, with a chance for another sighting Wednesday if skies stay clear.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose voters narrowly rejected a proposed update to the city charter that included mostly minor changes, but also two more debated items on judge residency and council term limits. And later... The historic Montrose County Courthouse, built in 1923, has reopened after a fifteen million dollar renovation that modernized its infrastructure, preserved key historic elements, and restored public access.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The Montrose County Commissioner is likely to be recalled after a contentious campaign citing workplace issues and public frustration. And later... A Montrose man is accused of attempted murder after police say he broke into his former girlfriend’s home and attacked another man with a knife.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Ice conducted a low-profile immigration operation in Montrose, detaining at least two individuals while local police observed but did not intervene, and few details have been released. And later... A sixteen-year-old is facing attempted murder charges after allegedly shooting and critically injuring a woman at a Montrose Halloween party.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The FBI is seeking public help to locate nine year-old Melodee Buzzard, last seen near the Utah–Colorado border on October 9th, as a multi-state investigation unfolds into her disappearance with her uncooperative mother. And later... Montrose has completed its “Year of Main Street” revitalization, finishing months of construction that upgraded utilities, sidewalks, and bike lanes to create a safer, more inviting downtown.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose Community Dinners returns November 27th, with a free Thanksgiving meal honoring Kevin Kuns. And later... Montrose County’s school board races are officially non-partisan, but party endorsements and campaign tactics reveal a growing influence of politics in local education decisions.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Shirley Koch is appealing her fifteen-year prison sentence in the Sunset Mesa body-selling fraud, arguing that her lesser role and minimal contact with victims don’t justify such a harsh punishment. And later... Montrose County voters will decide whether to recall Commissioner Scott Mijares and replace him with Kirstin Copeland, with the outcome hinging entirely on the recall vote.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The Montrose High School Pride of Montrose Marching Band set a new school record and earned fifth place at the Colorado State Championship, capping off a season defined by hard work, unity, and pride. And later... This November, Montrose voters will decide whether to update the city’s charter — basically, the local government’s rulebook.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... More than twenty-eight hundred Montrose County households — that’s over five thousand people — could see delays in their snap benefits if the federal shutdown continues past October 31st. And later... This season was a special one for the Montrose High School Mountain Bike team — and a farewell to longtime director Chris Brown.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A three-day job posting for Montrose County’s manager position sparked a sharp dispute among commissioners, with one accusing the others of rushing the process to favor the interim manager. And later... earlier this month, the "Pickin’ at the Pea" transformed Pea Green into a lively vintage market where vendors and shoppers celebrated creativity, community, and nostalgic finds.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... In Montrose, hundreds joined the nationwide No Kings protest—blending humor, costumes, and calls for unity—to show that community itself can be an act of resistance against Trump’s second term. And later... Powderhorn is adding a high-speed West End lift and new Quickdraw Café to boost safety, speed, and the guest experience—without raising prices.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose has approved a nonprofit operator to run its new city-owned childcare facility, set to open in March, as a key investment in supporting local families and the workforce. And later... A new group called the "Western Colorado Women’s Creative Guild" is bringing local artists together to collaborate, create, and support each other in a fun, inclusive community.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Former inmate Justin McNeil is suing Montrose County, claiming deputies assaulted him, denied him a wheelchair, and retaliated after he spoke out. And later... Every fall, Montrose turns into one big game board for The Amazing Race for Adaptive Sports — a scavenger hunt that mixes running, riddles, and community spirit.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The Valley Food Partnership’s "Cultivating Farmers and Ranchers That Thrive" program offers a four-part series to help producers, ranchers, and food entrepreneurs strengthen their business, leadership, and decision-making skills while building community connections. And later... After nearly thirty-seven years shaping Montrose Regional Health, Leann Tobin retires, leaving behind a lasting legacy of service and compassion.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're talking about The Valley Food Partnership’s "Stone Soup Community Lunch" in Montrose. It'll serve around five-hundred free, locally sourced meals this Saturday to celebrate the farmers market season and thank the community. And later, we'll address the tense scene Wednesday afternoon on Happy Canyon Road. Deputies with the Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a domestic violence incident in progress — and by the time they arrived, the situation had already turned tragic.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... we’re talking about the Montrose Regional Library District — and its upcoming appeal to voters this November. And later... looking for a little weekend magic with a purpose? Sharing Ministries invites you to “Be Their Guest” at a Beauty and the Beast Tea Party on Saturday, October 11thSupport the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Garnet Mesa Solar transforms a once-controversial Delta County project into a model of clean energy and agriculture, where solar panels and grazing sheep work together to power local homes. And later… A former San Miguel County deputy accused of possessing child sexual abuse material, was captured in Mexico after fleeing Colorado and now awaits extradition to face multiple felony charges.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Layered, a Montrose-based healthy fast-casual restaurant founded by Candice Stanek, has opened its first brick-and-mortar location, bringing her vision of locally sourced, feel-good food to life. And later... A freak accident at Haven House burst a water line and flooded parts of the transitional housing facility, displacing families and prompting a community effort to repair the damage and raise funds for recovery.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The Montrose County School Board unanimously approved Montrose Classical Academy’s charter application after state intervention, attaching conditions requiring student interest, inclusive services, and a secured facility by March. And later... Activist group Bloodstained Men and Their Friends is touring Colorado to protest infant circumcision, urging parents to respect children’s bodily autonomy and rethink a practice they see as unnecessary and harmful.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Needle Rock Body Art in Hotchkiss blends tattooing with suicide prevention by offering free semicolon tattoos and using art to spark open conversations about mental health. And later... A fifteen-year-old boy was arrested in Montrose after allegedly shooting a man who tried to help stop a group of teens involved in property damage, leaving the victim seriously injured but expected to recover.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Former Montrose teacher, Lisa Cianflone Thyre, pleaded guilty to attempting unlawful sexual communication with a student and faces two years of supervised probation if her plea deal is accepted. And later... At the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival artist Scramble Campbell paints live during performances, turning the sound, energy, and atmosphere of each show into vivid, one-of-a-kind works of art.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today...Montrose County reversed its North Campus open-office plan, approving a redesign to restore traditional offices after finding it more cost-effective and better suited for staff privacy and departmental needs. And later... A new senior housing community is opening in Montrose on September 24th. Called Rendezvous, the development offers fifty-two affordable apartments for adults aged fifty-five and older.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A black bear on the hunt for pre-hibernation calories gave Montrose residents quite a scare this week, roaming through yards and neighborhoods before wildlife officials stepped in. And later... A new senior housing community is opening in Montrose on September 24th. Called Rendezvous, the development offers fifty-two affordable apartments for adults aged fifty-five and older.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... More than two-hundred cats were spayed and neutered at a Montrose clinic led by the Colorado Cat Coalition and Doctor Jeff Young, part of a broader push to curb overpopulation and expand affordable, humane care for pets. And later… Montrose Classical Academy’s twice-rejected charter application is back before the Montrose County School Board after the state ordered a reconsideration, reigniting the debate over school choice in the community.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... A Montezuma County grand jury indicted thirty-eight-year-old Rachel Leonard for the 2022 death of her five-year-old daughter Annika, alleging she suffocated the child after a custody dispute, though her defense is challenging the evidence ahead of an October plea hearing. And later... Shepherd’s Hand and the Lighthouse shelter have merged under one leadership to pool resources, secure funding, and continue serving Montrose’s growing unhoused population.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... The Montrose Botanic Gardens is celebrating its 30th anniversary this Saturday with a free, family-friendly sunflower-themed party featuring music, activities, and a look ahead to new community projects like the renovation of its children’s garden. And later... A Montrose man is facing charges after a bar altercation that police say turned violent and targeted a person’s gender identity.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose Classical Academy, twice denied by the local school board, is appealing to the Colorado State Board of Education in hopes of opening a tuition-free classical charter school in Montrose by 2026. And later... More than two-hundred neglected cats and dogs were rescued from a Delta County property, while the seventy-eight-year-old owner faces over two-hundred counts of animal cruelty as her court case continues.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Montrose County Commissioner Scott Mijares will face a November recall election after declining to resign or challenge petitions, with supporters citing his conservative record and opponents accusing him of reckless, divisive leadership. And later... All Colorado water users—motorized or not—must clean, drain, and dry their gear to stop invasive zebra mussels from spreading and damaging ecosystems, recreation, and infrastructure.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... At a recent roundtable, Senator John Hickenlooper heard Western Slope leaders warn that federal cuts and agency shortfalls are leaving small communities struggling to fund projects, manage public lands, and meet rising local needs. And later... Montrose County voted to oppose the "Gunnison Outdoors Resources Protection Act", despite none of its lands being included, with supporters citing economic and control concerns and the lone dissenter warning it shuts the county out of future talks.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today... Sometimes the most interesting journeys don’t start with a plane ticket. They start with a question. For Montrose author Diane Winger, that question was: What would it take to write a full-length novel? And later... Montrose Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is offering a six-week women’s self-defense course, teaching teen girls and women practical skills to build confidence, awareness, and the ability to protect themselves.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today: Former funeral home operator Megan Hess and her mother Shirley Koch, convicted in a body-sale fraud scheme, have been granted more time to file appeals challenging their twenty- and fifteen-year prison sentences. And later: Montrose County has reported its first West Nile virus death, with two local cases confirmed, prompting health officials to urge residents to take precautions against mosquito bites.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.