MONTROSE SCIENTIST DEVELOPS SWEETEST CORN ON THE
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MONTROSE SCIENTIST DEVELOPS SWEETEST CORN ON THE
Your Source for Local Business News and Information Friend us on Facebook Visit us online at montrosemirror.com Issue No. 42 Aug. 15 2012 Please Support our Advertisers: MONTROSE SCIENTIST DEVELOPS SWEETEST CORN ON THE PLANET www.montroseact.com http://www.western.edu/academics/sbdc www.voa.org Fresh from the field...Montrose corn scientist Dave MacKenzie shows off some of the latest Mirai test samples. A new variety has been tested at 23 percent sugar. www.dmea.com www.montrosecounty.net www.region10.net Proud Member-Online News Association By Caitlin Switzer MONTROSE—As hungry shoppers across the nation clamor for more of John Harold’s Olathe Sweet sweet corn and Mike Ahlberg’s Mountain Fresh Sweet Corn (same sweet corn, different name), another local sweet corn variety is drawing even more worldwide attention to Colorado’s Western Slope. “We’re doing major tests here in the valley,” said corn scientist Dave MacKenzie, who holds the patent on Mirai sweet corn, the popular “dessert corn” variety he originally developed in the early 1990’s at Twin Garden Farms in Harvard, Illinois. In the years since, Mirai has developed a global following, particularly in Japan, and is considered by many to be the finest quality sweet corn hybrid in the world. “Our research is going crazy—we have definitely reached a new level of sweetness,” MacKenzie said in an interview last week. “Normal supermarket sweet corn averages about 14 percent sugar. Mirai is 18 percent sugar—and last week a tester hit 23 percent sugar. “I am excited about taking it to the next level.” Continued on Page 2 STAR DRIVE-INN TOPS TRIP ADVISOR By Caitlin Switzer MONTROSE—Pam Friend has never even heard of the Trip Advisor. But travelers from across the United States and beyond have heard of Friend’s Star Drive-Inn Theatre (600 East Miami Rd.), thanks to the popular travel review web site. The Star Drive-Inn Theatre is consistently rated as the top thing to do in Montrose by both travelers and visitors alike. Other top picks, in order of preference, include the Ute Indian Museum, Museum of the Mountain West, and Russell Stover Candy Factory. A reviewer from Costa Mesa California sums up the Star Drive-Inn Theatre’s appeal. “Can't say enough - it's a drive-in!” the reviewer notes. “It's something all generations can enjoy! Hope it never disappears like they have everywhere else in the world! We go every summer when we are in town visiting family.” The Star Drive-Inn Theatre is listed as the number one thing to do in Montrose on Trip Advisor. Continued on page 3 in this issue Save the Hotchkiss Barn! Montrose ACT Summer Events! Scenes from the Habitat Roller Derby! Out & About in the Region! Region 10 Rebrands! The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 2 MONTROSE SCIENTIST DEVELOPS SWEETEST CORN ON THE PLANET Continued from page 1 Although MacKenzie’s team has focused on growing Mirai locally for roadside stands in recent years, the strategy has changed. “I am getting out of the fresh business, and focusing on getting Mirai into supermarkets,” MacKenzie said. “We are working on a relationship with a supermarket chain, and two farms in Denver and three here in the valley have expressed interest in growing Mirai.” Mark Hayes of Twin Garden Farms, an agricultural sales professional who estimates that he moves roughly a million and a half crates of corn each year—“We are growing and harvesting corn somewhere 52 weeks a year,” Hayes says—notes that shoppers can now find the sought-after corn in Safeway Grocery stores in Arizona. “They may not call it Mirai,” Hayes noted. “The stores give the corn their own names, and it is up to them to market it. But it is a success story, and it is available in chain stores. We are also shipping Mirai to Texas, for H.E. Butt Groceries.” HEB Groceries is the largest privately held business in Texas, with more than 315 HEB stores as well as the upscale retailer Central market. Mirai is currently not available in Colorado groceries, because of longstanding relationships those grocers have with other corn varieties, Hayes said. However, Coloradoans can take advantage of the ideal growing conditions—hot days combined with cool nights—to grow Mirai varieties in their home gardens. Mirai, which must be picked by hand, is already sold in seed form in most U.S. states, MacKenzie said, and is very popular in Europe. “It’s going like crazy in France, where Kerry Mattics, left, is one of two prominent local farmers who are growing Mirai for testing. Although the sought-after sweet corn is considered the world’s sweetest, it is not marketed in Colorado groceries, but is currently available only in seed form. they will be processing it in cans,” MacKenzie said. “They want high taste, and minimal added sugar. We’re seeing huge demand in other places overseas as well— for example, in the Ukraine. And Japan has immediately jumped on the next level of taste—they are calling our new, extra sweet variety “Dolce.” The name Mirai means “taste of the future,” which is exactly what MacKenzie considers his corn to be. “We are already seeing huge sales at roadside stands in the Eastern U.S.,” he said, but noted that Midwestern sweet corn sales have been heavily impacted by the drought of 2012. “In Illinois, there is a 30 percent seed No reprints without permission. shortage because of the heat,” he said. “There are places where the field corn has just burned up.” Here in Montrose, Mirai has established a following at some local eateries, and without a local growing operation MacKenzie has found creative ways to meet demand. “Dan Blowers will be picking the corn from our research fields when it’s done, and delivering it,” MacKenzie said. “Chef Mike Krull over at the hospital put up 400 pounds of Mirai last year—he has told us he will take all the Mirai anybody can grow. “We are getting at least three calls a day from people looking for Mirai.” Region 10 Enterprise Center 300 North Cascade, Suite G-2 Editor and Publisher: Caitlin Switzer The Montrose Mirror is a twice-monthly Wednesday publication focusing on local business news and information. Photographer: Dave Bernier Montrose, CO 81401 970-275-5791 www.montrosemirror.com editor@montrosemirror.com The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 3 STAR DRIVE-INN TOPS TRIP ADVISOR continued from page 1 “I am not familiar with Trip Advisor at all,” said Friend, who also owns and operates a farm and produce stand in Olathe with her husband Richard. “I’ll be darned.” While the Star Drive-Inn Theatre is not especially profitable—the largest percentage of film receipts go directly to the film companies, while the family’s returns come largely from concession sales— Friend believes that it is an important asset to the community. “It’s a pride thing for me,” she said. “Mom and dad built it, and they loved it. They broke ground for the drive-in in 1949, and opened in April of 1950. “And I really do enjoy seeing the people—it’s great to bring some form of entertainment to Montrose.” Friend still cuts all potatoes for the concession stands’ popular French fries by hand. The concession food is one of the things that consistently earns raves from Trip Advisor reviewers. “We have hot dogs and fries, and of course your normal things like popcorn and candy, ice cream and drinks,” Friend said. “We use our own home-grown onions and potatoes. I actually have people who don’t come to watch the movies—they tell us they just want to park outside and have dinner,” she said. A community fundraising effort is currently underway to help the Star Drive-Inn Theater pay for the high costs of converting to a digital projection system. The campaign was started as a grassroots effort by local computer guru Chris Tolvo (Computer Business Solutions) of Montrose. “The Star Drive-Inn is an important part of the nostalgia for on old town like Montrose,” Tolvo said. “Just about everybody has brought their kids here, and their children’s children.” The fundraising effort just hit $8,000 in donations, he noted, but the new system is expected to cost more than $100,000. “People think that because Pam owns two businesses that she is making a profit,” Tolvo said. “It’s important to realize that both of her businesses are seasonal. “She needs out support,” he said. “It’s about people helping people.” To learn more about efforts to save the Star Drive-Inn Theatre, visit the web site at http://www.stardrive-in.com/. For Jodi Shormann of Montrose ACT, the Star Drive-Inn Theatre is an essential part of Montrose’s charm. “We send a lot of people to the DriveInn,” Shormann said. “It’s very close to so many hotels, and so many people have not even heard about it. “I think it’s wonderful!” One longtime local who has been to the Star Drive-Inn Theatre is Rich Fike, a lifelong history buff whose Museum of the Mountain West (68169 East Miami Road) is also among the Trip Advisor’s listing of the top three things to do in Montrose. “We just took runner up in True West Magazine’s listing of the top Western Museums in the United States,” Fike said, “and I have been told we have the second largest collection of Western artifacts in the U.S., although I don’t know it is true. What I do know is we are doing very well.” In the past week the Museum of the Mountain West has welcomed visitors from Amsterdam, Switzerland, and Belgium, Fike noted. “We have folks from Rapid City here right now,” he said. “We are seeing more visitors this year— we’re up about 25 percent.” Fike believes that sites like Trip Advisor and Montrose ACT are important, but he has seen an increase in the number of drop -in visitors as well. “This really has been an excellent summer,” he said. “I believe part of it is that we have completed the hotel—the Museum looks more permanent. People don’t just see a collection of buildings in a field, but a historic town.” WEST END SENIOR FAIR SET FOR SEPT. 13 Special to the Mirror WEST END--The West End Senior Fair has been scheduled for Sept 13th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Interested vendors are encouraged to call Volunteers of America Outreach Coordinator Eva Veitch at 970901-5274. “We have once again secured transportation funding through Citizens State Bank, and I have booked the same family that entertained last year,” Veitch said. “This year we do need to charge a $20 booth rental to help cover the cost of food and entertainment, and we are also asking each vendor to provide one or two door prizes.” Last year’s event was highly successful, Veitch said, and the weather is expected to be spectacular. “We had such a great turnout last year that we plan to get tents and have the vendors set up outside this year,” she said. Please complete the attached form and return it via email or fax to 970-240-0160 by August 15th. Call 970- 901-5274 with questions or suggestions.. Checks may be sent to VOA at 300 N Cascade U-9 Montrose, 81401. THANKS FOR READING THE MONTROSE MIRROR! YOUR SOURCE FOR BUSINESS NEWS IN YOUR COMMUNITY! The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 4 SOLAR INDUSTRY MAKES SENSE ON WEST SLOPE “There has been an increase in local system installers, and we also see steady demand from people seeking a source—our first solar array sold out in four weeks, and our second is three-quarters sold.” Government incentives and tax credits can be powerful incentives for builders to use green technologies such as solar, he noted. “Solar is an extremely beneficial, nonpolluting free energy source,” Heneghan said. “It’s the up-front costs that make the difference; the mandate creates the incentive, and continued incentives are important. “People know that renewable energy is the right thing to do,” Heneghan said, “but they do what they can afford.” Incentives also help local installers, who are attempting to gain a foothold in an Douglas Kiesewetter of Montrose’s Brightleaf Technologies is among the solar industry’s emerging and highly competitive industry, most innovative entrepreneurs. Photo by Claire Clemens. he noted. By Caitlin Switzer certified, and who you can trust.” Colorado’s pioneering role in mandating REGIONAL—When the Colorado Solar Although he is no longer involved in the renewable portfolio standards for utilities Energy Industries Association (COSEIA) solar field or COSEIA, Elder remains inhas helped increase the use of renewable chose the Western Slope for its stakehold- terested in renewable energy sources and energy resources as well. Since the passage ers’ meeting in July, the gathering at the the abundance of “raw material” available of the state’s Amendment 37 in 2004, muMontrose ACT conference room represent- locally. nicipal utilities serving 40,000 or more ed an opportunity for local solar entrepre- “Solar energy just makes sense here,” he customers and electric cooperatives must neurs to connect with leaders in the energy said. “It helps our economy, and helps have 10 percent of their portfolios invested industry, and generated excitement about DMEA (Delta-Montrose Electric Associa- in renewable energy sources by 2020, and the future of this emerging field. tion) conserve—maybe they won’t need a for investor-owned utilities the standard For one local business owner, news of new power plant, and we can put a few climbs to 30 percent by 2020. Eligible enCOSEIA’s visit to Montrose on July 25 dollars back in your pocket.” ergy sources include landfill gas, wind, also generated a touch of nostalgia. Jim Elder said that his solar industry backbiomass, hydroelectric, geothermal elecElder is known mainly as a financial expert ground is one reason he has considered a tric, recycled energy, anaerobic digestion, and owner of the award-winning firm future run for the DMEA board. fuel cells using renewable fuels—and of ElderAdo Financial. However, Elder began “Solar energy can drive our economy course solar, both thermal electric and phohis career as the owner of a solar installa- forward, and it is ideal for the Western tovoltaics. tion and service firm in the 1980’s and Slope,” he said, noting that his next home “Solar is coming down in cost, and utili1990’s in the Denver metropolitan area— will incorporate both passive and active ties have seen it integrated into their distriand was one of the original members of solar technology. bution systems,” Heneghan said. “And the COSEIA. “It’s not just about photovoltaic,” he said. fact of the matter is, when it comes to resi“It was such an exciting time,” Elder said. “Just placing windows on the south can cut dential systems, the cost of heating and “We didn’t know what we were doing— your heating bills drastically. Don’t plant cooling your home is the biggest expense.” we were scratching our heads, climbing on trees on the south side, because you lose Homeowners who take advantage of solar roofs and creating things, pioneer stuff. solar gain—the little things can really add energy can definitely lower their power There were a handful of us then, and we up.” bills, said Soloar Systems Engineer Ken decided to hold a meeting. So we called all The presence of innovative solar compa- Laturnus of Anasazi Solar. of the solar guys in town and got together, nies such as Bright Leaf Technologies With the right system, “You can generate and we tapped into the national organiza- (121 Apollo Road) in the area is also a and bring power to remote areas,” Lation and created standards for testing and positive sign, Elder said. turnus said. “it’s a great way to save moncertification. “I hope more solar companies will come ey and be more self-sufficient. “COSEIA has really grown!” Elder said. here,” he said. “Solar power can be kind of a hedge “But back then, you would go to Renewable energy engineer Jim against inflation,” he said. “If you lock in someone’s house and they would stare at Heneghan of DMEA said that he has seen with the right equipment, you can maintain you—‘do you know what you’re doing?’ substantial growth in the solar industry on some control over your energy costs in the You want to work with people who are the Western Slope over the past ten years. future.” The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 5 Dog Grooming at your Doorstep Amy Saunders owns the Mobile Grooming Company, where the well-being of your pet comes first. Courtesy photo by Susan Bony. By Susan Bony Special to the Mirror MONTROSE--The Mobile Grooming Co., a new local mobile dog grooming service, offers a state-of-the-art, totally selfcontained grooming salon on wheels designed to come to you almost anywhere in Montrose. The unit is equipped with a gen- erator, water heater, air conditioner, fresh and gray water tanks and all the conveniences of a regular dog grooming salon. Amy Saunders (Owner/Groomer of The Mobile Grooming Co.) is a Nationally Certified groomer and member of the National Dog Grooming Association of America. Advertisement "Many grooming salons keep your dog in a crate until they are ready to be groomed and then again later when they are awaiting pick-up", said Amy Saunders. “We are CAGE FREE and provide a safe and clean environment designed exclusively for dog grooming to keep your dog looking its best. It takes time and is inconvenient for most people to make two trips to the groomer - one for the drop-off and pick -up of their dog. We can eliminate this hassle by coming to your home or office at your appointment time. We do not overbook our schedule, so we are dependable and on time for your appointment. Plus, our prices are very competitive with standard dog grooming salons.” The Mobile Grooming Co. allows your dog to be pampered without the nervous emotions that come with being around other caged animals in an unfamiliar environment. Your dog feels great because it's immediately being pampered without traveling someplace. Amy treats your dog with love and kindness while making it feel better by being groomed professionally with safe, specialized products. At The Mobile Grooming Co., the safety and well being of your dog always comes first. For more information or to schedule an appointment for your pet call 970-5960303. The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 6 REGIONAL NEWS BRIEFS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HOSTS BARN RAISING/RESTORE GRAND OPENING SEPT. 7 Special to the Mirror MONTROSE--Ready, get set, go! Race on over to the Montrose Habitat for Humanity Barn Raising and ReStore Grand Opening Celebration on Friday, Sept. 7 at the Habitat Barn, 1601 North Townsend, and be among the very first to see the new ReStore and Habitat space. “We are very excited to unveil our new ReStore and office building to the public,” Montrose Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Colleen Burke said. “We want to say thank you as well--we could not have completed this project without the help and support of our community, our board of directors, our sponsors, the City of Montrose, Montrose ACT, our staff and army of volunteers and, of course USDA Rural Development.” A ribbon cutting at 12:15 a.m. with the Montrose ACT Redcoats will begin the day on Sept.7, followed by the Barn Raising and ReStore Grand Opening from 6 to 10 p.m. The celebration will feature live music by Box Car & Yengo, as well as a live auction and BBQ supper. Catch a glimpse of the future, with Sneak Previews and tours of the ReStore from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The event is open to the public, and tickets are $25. Barn Raising sponsors include Horsefly Brewing Company, BW Insurance, Park Avenue Party Rental, Bank of the West and Cherry Creek Radio (KUBC-KKXK.) The next day--Saturday, Sept. 8--the ReStore will officially open in its new location, with door prizes, hot dogs, soda and a live radio broadcast on KKXK 95 KIX to welcome customers and friends. The move doubles the ReStore’s size to 15,000 square feet and just over ten acres. New hours will be Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations will be taken daily at the back of the new building. To learn more, email colleen@habitatmontrose.org, or call 970-252 -9303. Hospice & Palliative Care Named as a Best Company to Work for in Colorado Special to the Mirror GRAND JUNCTION--For the second year in a row, Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado has been recognized as a Best Company to Work for in Colorado 2012, named 4th in a list of top-10 large companies. Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado was the only hospice to be named in this exclusive group. “This award is a true reflection of our dedicated team. Our employees’ service and compassion is what makes our organization such a great place to work,” says Christy Whitney, President & CEO of Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado. “We are all very proud to be honored along with other Colorado businesses.” The Best Company to Work for in Colorado program is sponsored by the Colorado State Council of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in conjunction with the local SHRM state chapters, as well as media partners ColoradoBIZ magazine and Jobing.com. This was the seventh annual statewide recogni- tion program in Colorado. The competition is designed to tap into the qualities of employers that make a measurable difference in the local business community. All participating organizations and their employees completed a scientifically measured survey developed by ModernThink, a specialized research and consulting firm. Employees were surveyed regarding various human resource concerns such as company leadership, management, benefits and strategy. CALLING ALL CYCLISTS! Special to the Mirror RIDGWAY--Bicyclists of all ages, sizes and tire preferences should start training now for the first-ever, Log Hill Lungbuster Challenge, a time trial and fundraiser for the Ouray County Historical Society. The event is slated for Sunday, Sept. 16. This will be a new kind of fundraiser for the OCHS, one that capitalizes on the growing number of outdoor enthusiasts who both visit and live in southwest Colorado. The competition’s route starts at the Old Schoolhouse Emporium on West Sherman Street in Ridgway, then follows a 15-mile course west out of town along Hwy 62 and CR 24A. At CR 1, bikers follow the road’s steep, serpentine ascent up Log hill escarpment, ride around various subdivi- sions of Log Hill, and finish at the Divide Ranch and Country Club. OCHS President Kevin Chismire observes that many other nonprofit organizations in the area sponsor successful athletic events such as the Mt. Sneffels HalfMarathon and Marathon, Imogene Pass Run, and the Mt. Sneffels Half-Loop Nordic ski race. “Missing from all these fabulous events is a bicycling event,” says Kevin, an avid cyclist. “Both mountain bicycling (fat tire) and road bicycling (skinny tire) are becoming increasingly popular in our region. The OCHS felt it was time to have a biking event that would include both road and mountain cyclists.” The Log Hill Lungbuster Challenge will be in the form of a time trial, in which con- testants start at intervals of about one minute apart. Then each rider races against the clock. Best time awards will be given in both the Road Bike and Mountain Bike categories, plus sub-categories for gender and age groups. Although Kevin acknowledges that this new fundraising concept could “take us a little out of our comfort zone,” he predicts it will be an enjoyable competition that attracts cyclists from throughout Ouray County and beyond. Of course, those who are not up to busting their lungs are welcome to participate as spectators and volunteers. The race’s $40 registration fee will benefit the OCHS. For further information and to register for this event visit our website: www.loghilllungbusterchallenge.com or phone the OCHS at 970-325-4576. The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 7 LIVESTOCK PRODUCERS EMPLOY DROUGHT STRATEGIES Advertisement The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 8 MONTROSE ACT RIBBON CUTTING! MONTROSE EXECUTIVE PLAZA Special to the Mirror MONTROSE--The Montrose Executive Plaza is a classy community meeting and event Center that opened this year. The Plaza is a local business serving Montrose families, nonprofits, and businesses by providing reasonably priced, refined meeting and event space with a personal touch. Please consider this facility for anything from small meetings to 200-person events. Friends of The Plaza, along with Montrose ACT and their Redcoat organization, welcome the Montrose Executive Plaza at a recent ribbon cutting: Redcoats Lori Rodgers (Montrose Auto Body) and Rex Swanson (Aflac)(with scissors), Todd Anderson, Redcoat Bill Brougham (Brougham and Associates), Michelle Haynes (Region 10), owners Pat and Terry Byrd (with scissors and sign), and Redcoats John Lindh and Lacy Anderson (All PointsTransit). Advertisement The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 9 LEVERAGING RESOURCES FOR STRONGER COMMUNITIES... REGION 10 REBRANDS The Region 10 League for Economic Assistance & Planning has launched a marketing campaign to raise awareness of services and programs available to local communities. Above, Region Executive Director Paul Gray poses in front of a Montrose business. By Caitlin Switzer MONTROSE—Since1972, the Region 10 League for Economic Assistance & Planning has been accomplishing its goals of providing resources and tools for community development. Now, the organization is seeking ways to raise awareness of its programs and opportunities, which include support for economic development as well as the Area Agency on Aging, Business Loan Fund, The Enterprise Center, Enterprise Zone Tax credits, The Gunnison Valley Transportation Planning Region, transportation and transit planning. As the non-profit organization prepares to close out fiscal year 2012, the timing is right to let the community know about the value inherent in Region 10’s programs and services, Executive Director Paul Gray said. “Citizens, small businesses, donors, and seniors received benefits and services with value equivalent to 40 times the investment made by the local municipalities in Region 10 in 2011,” Gray said. Despite Region 10’s many contributions to the six-county (Montrose, Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Ouray and San Miguel) region that it serves, developing a consistent image for the organization has always presented a challenge, Gray said. “We have such a diversity of programs, and not all are related,” he said. “The common thread is that our programs promise and achieve a positive benefit for the people who live in our region.” Region 10’s new tag line will be “Leveraging Resources for Stronger Communities,” he said, an idea generated by Claudette Nicolas and Michelle Haynes of the Region 10 Area Agency on Aging. Gray noted that the non-profit has organized a marketing effort spearheaded by its six staff members and led by Business Loan Fund Director Vince Fandel, and has been working with Montrose graphic designer Rene Bobo on a contract basis to create a new logo and targeted advertising campaign. “This is the first time we have had a small amount of our budget set aside for advertising,” Gray said, “So we are working with Rene to develop a consistent image for Region 10 as an organization. “In keeping with our philosophy of leveraging available resources for greater return, we want to make sure that we achieve the most value in terms of getting our message across.” Region 10 will employ public service announcements and advertisements in both traditional and new media, he said. Longtime Region 10 Board member, Montrose City Council member and former Mayor Kathy Ellis believes that the timing is perfect for Region 10 to move forward, not only with marketing efforts, but with ideas for additional programs and services. “I have been on the Region 10 board for five years, and in that time we have gone through a rebuilding process,” Ellis said. “Now we are ready to move forward again—what does forward look like? What else is out there? What are other regions doing?” Ellis said that the board has asked Gray to talk to other regions about ideas and opportunities that could work in the sixcounty territory served by Region 10. “The new tagline received very favorable comments at our executive meeting,” Ellis said. “This is a very exciting time. How do we get people to understand where we have been and where we are going? We have to able to change our current culture with projects for the whole region—it’s not all about Montrose.” Ellis noted that one favorable outcome of the recession years is that communities are now more willing to work together. “Why should we reinvent the wheel?” she asked. “We are not an island; we have to depend on each other. “How do we work together to make this whole region profitable?” The Region 10 Enterprise Center and Region 10’s administrative offices are located at 300 South Cascade in Montrose. The phone number is 970-249-2436. The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 10 REGIONAL NEWS BRIEFS SCARECROW ALLEY HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF AG Special to the Mirror OLATHE--"Scarecrow Alley" was a popular place at the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival. Judges picked winners in business, organization and individual categories and the crowd voted for the Best in Show. Rose Price of Altrusa International won the overall competition with her entry, "I Can Read" featuring handmade prairies dresses and Altrusa's focus on literacy. Wedding photographer LaBree Shide of The Studio won the $500 business promotional package from KUBC with "Country Wedding," featuring a scarecrow bride, groom, ring bearer, and flower girl with a "hay cake. The Montrose-Olathe School Food Service department won first in organizations for their lunch line of student scarecrows munching on school lunch. Kristal Benson, Linda Read, and Glyle Sofka won first prize in the individual category for their creative entry that focused on preserving our water and our crops. American Ag Credit sponsored prizes in the organization, clubs, and individual entry categories. The contest was orga- Winner in Business category: The Wedding by LaBree Shide of The Studio. nized by the Valley Food Partnership as part of their celebration of local agriculture at the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival on Saturday, August 4. Montrose Rotary, the Girls Scouts, the Wool Growers, and Ashley Corona also won prizes. Lorraine Shide and Carol Parker organized the competition to draw attention to local agriculture and its importance to the regional economy. Some of the winning scarecrows may be viewed at the Montrose Regional Library. HONORABLE MENTION To Patty Ray and Nyla of Hug-A-Bear Child Care & Learning Center, for all the years of great childcare and love and for always putting the wellbeing of kids first… To Montrose Library Director Paul Paladino and the Montrose Library Bookmobile for bringing knowledge to the people… To the organizers of Montrose’s Youth Appreciation Day, Aug. 18, for celebrating and supporting the future of our community… To the Montrose Aquatic Center for helping us all stay cool during this long, hot summer! To all of the hardworking local musicians who share their gifts and talents with the community every day of the year...we know you are not in it for the “money,” but you make our lives better... And to D’Medici Footwear, for that smoking’ hot end-of-summer sandal sale!! The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 11 Advertisement The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 12 OUT AND ABOUT AT THE HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ROLLER DERBY BENEFIT!! Left, Jessica Estle of Montrose enjoys a cotton candy snack during last Saturday night’s Roller Derby Faceoff between the Ark Valley High Rollers and the Grand Junction Roller Girls. Right, members of the “pack” attempt to block a roller “jammer.” Below, a downed jammer attempts to get back on her feet. Roller Derby players sport colorful names and attitudes. Habitat volunteer Deborah Thompson said that the crowd gave generously during the packed event. The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 13 THE INVENTION OF THE POPSICLE—A OURAY ORIGINAL from 1920 through 1963. Nearly forgotten, however, is a charming story that dates to around 1930 – the story of a Ouray invention that originated at Massard and Schneider’s soda fountain, and which has changed lives for the better ever since. A few old photographs at the Ouray County Historical Society Museum recall the big event, and the two men whose creativity helped them stay in business for 43 years, despite the boom and bust cycles common to a mining town such as Ouray. “It is surprising,” former historical society executive director Ann Hoffman agreed, when asked about the invention of that popular summertime treat, the Popsicle. “The story goes that they had a concoction of some kind that they had made at the drug store soda fountain, and they didn’t want to throw it out.” The soda fountain itself, now on display at the county historical museum, was a vital part of life in Ouray at the time, HoffA cool treat on a hot day is a Ouray tradiman said. tion—after all, the popsicle was invented “People would come in to get their mail, here. Little Michael, four at the time of this and to sit at the soda fountain and have photo in 2003, keeps the tradition alive. Mir- treats and chat,” she said. “A lot of discusror file photo. sions took place there, and a lot of romances got their start sitting on those Editor’s note—I originally ran this story stools.” One local woman remembered that soda in the Telluride Daily Planet in 2003. fountain quite well. The late Verena JaVerena Jacobsen is no longer with us. However, I believe this little known bit of cobson, 95 at the time of this writing, local history is worth sharing once again! worked for her uncle, Frank Massard as a By Caitlin Switzer young woman. OURAY--Like ice cream splashed on a “I worked for them while I was in high hot sidewalk, it is a tale that has almost school,” Jacobson recalled. “It was down been lost to time. where the variety store is now. They had Much has been written in local history the same sort of things, except they did books about Ouray and about Frank Mas- sell ice cream and soft drinks.” sard and Albert Schneider, close friends It was around 1930 that Massard and who ran the town’s Drug Store Post Office Schneider came up with the idea for the Popsicle. “They had a soft drink at the soda fountain, called Julep,” Jacobson said. “It didn’t sell very well, so they decided to try something else. They took paper cups, put some Julep in, froze it, and put a stick in the center. “They called it the Popsicle.” Jacobson recalled sampling the new invention herself. “I had lots of them,” she said. “They had lime, strawberry, lemon and orange. And once it was frozen, they really made their money off it.” The two inventors never did get official credit for their invention, however. “They saw an ad in one of the papers for inventions,” Hoffman explained. “They sent their information, and the company took their idea and ran with it. I think they got five dollars for entering their new invention into that company’s contest.” “They didn’t get the patent,” agreed Jacobson. “Someone else has picked it up since. They thought they were doing real well ‘cause they got this five dollars. They were quite proud of themselves.” Jacobson, who later taught school and eventually married a farmer from Minnesota, enjoyed her years working at the Drug Store Post Office. “Anything I could get my hands on to sell, especially if it was hard to sell, I liked to do that,” she said. “But those Popsicles went real fast.” And all her life, she had a fondness for the frozen treats invented by her Uncle Frank and his best friend. “They don’t hurt you any,” she said. “And especially if it’s awfully hot, they are very thirst quenching. “That’s about the story as it is,” she adds. “There isn’t much else to say.” The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 14 THE COLORADO SEARCH AND RESCUE CARD… DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT! By Caitlin Switzer REGIONAL—As locals and out-of -state visitors alike begin to gear up for hunting season, one essential item can be easy to overlook amidst the preparations. And yet of all the items that any backcountry enthusiast can own, the Colorado Search and Rescue Card could just be the most vital. The card, which is issued by the Department of Local Affairs, is sold by more than 300 businesses and non-profits across the state. The cards cost $3 for one year or $12 for five years, and help to support the Colorado Search and Rescue Fund. In addition to reimbursing local search and rescue organizations for costs incurred in search rescue efforts, leftover monies are used to pay for training and equipment for SAR teams. San Miguel Sheriff’s Officer Eric Berg said the cards can be purchased through the Sheriff’s office, and are a vital source of funding for back country rescue efforts. “The program is extremely important and beneficial in that the taxpayers are not burdened with the rescue expenses for the responsible backcountry users (includes ATV, watercraft, hunters, fishermen as well as hikers/climbers),” Berg said. “Our County generally only seeks reimbursement from the fund for extraordinary expenses (95% of the time this translates to helicopter), although that varies between The Colorado Search and Rescue Card helps to support the efforts of local search and rescue teams like Ouray Mountain Rescue, shown above at last week’s Ridgway Arts & Crafts Festival. individual Counties.” Berg said that he has shared the card program with other states, and hopes that they find it as useful as Colorado has. In Ouray County, the card is listed on County hiking maps, SAR team member Tricia Eischied of Ouray Mountain Sports said. “We sell a fair amount of them here,” she said. “They are great for us. The way the system works is that the revenues go into a statewide fund. If you are rescued by us and we blow a tire, we can file a claim, and be reimbursed within three weeks. If you don’t have the card, there is a second tier of funding with the annual grants that they give out—but if someone does have the card we are SURE to be reimbursed.” To learn more, visit the Colorado Department of Local Affairs web site, or purchase the Colorado Search and Rescue card through a local vendor. CHEF NICK RINNE WINS VALLEY FOOD PARTNERSHIP COOK-OFF Special to the Mirror OLATHE--Chef Nick Rinne of Montrose restaurant Sushitini reigned supreme at the Valley Food Partnership Chef Cook-off held at the Olathe Corn Festival Saturday. Chef Nick Pasquariello of Creekside at Cobble Creek and Chef Lacey Huntley of the Camp Robber also vied for the title by using locally grown ingredients in appetizer, entree, and dessert courses. With secret ingredients that included Olathe Sweet Sweet Corn, yak burger and lavender, the chefs’ creativity, taste, and use of secret ingredients was judged by a panel of four. Olathe town manager Scott Harold, Laura Parker of Parker Pastures, Kim Linesby, of Mesa Univeristy's Culinary program, and Tonya Piele of Homestead Meats got the tough job of tasting yak burger appetizers, lamb entrees with fresh herbs, and desserts using lavender. Harold said, "I was amazed at the complexity of dishes they were able to create using just a couple of burners under a tent." Organizers Lorraine Shide and Carol Parker hoped to encourage the use of seasonal ingredients among area residents and to show case the creativity of local chefs. Culinary teacher Lorraine Shide said, "I knew Olathe sweet corn would be a versa- tile ingredient but I was blown away by the desserts and high level of interest from the crowd." Mattics Orchards, Straw Hat Farm, Day Spring Farm, Parker Pastures, Honey Acre Farm, Yankee Boy Farm and Del Yaks contributed the fresh ingredients. The competition was part of the Harvest Barn celebration of local agriculture organized by the Valley Food Partnership in conjunction with the Olathe Corn Festival. The partnership is a local food initiative seeking to connect farms to forks in support of healthy eating and a healthy local economy. The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 15 Abbie’s Montrose Market Scoop! MONTROSE COUNTY UPDATES AND INFORMATION... Dear Abbie, MONTROSE COUNTY SHERIFF LIFTS FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN MONTROSE COUNTY I am looking for a good recipe that uses local foods. Can you help? Hungry in the heart of Montrose Dear Hungry, Sure! Save time and energy by stopping by the Montrose Farmers Market this week for fresh, locally grown squash, tomatoes, green pepper, basil, goat cheese, onion and garlic for this delicious summer meal. The Montrose Famers Market is open every Saturday and Wednesday at South 1st and Uncompahgre, from 8:30 am to 1 pm! 2 lbs squash and/or zucchini, sliced 1 green bell pepper, seeds removed, sliced 2 smallish tomatoes or one large tomato, peeled and cut into wedges 1/2 yellow onion, peeled and sliced 1 clove of garlic, chopped Olive oil Goat Cheese Basil, either dry or chopped fresh Salt and pepper about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want to let the juice from the tomatoes evaporate some. After 5 minutes, add the tomatoes to the rest of the vegetables and stir. Salt and pepper to taste. Yield: Serves four. Eat Well, and Celebrate Local Foods Month!! Ingredients Abbie Brewer Community Energy Coordinator/Montrose 1 Put onion, garlic, squash, bell pepper into Farmers' Market Manager (970) 417-6313 Cell Phone a large saucepan with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Put on high heat and FORE Alliance brown the vegetables slightly to develop (970)874-7566 ext 232 Delta Office flavor. As you are browning, sprinkle either dried basil or chopped fresh basil on (970) 240-1272 DMEA Office the vegetables. When vegetables are slight- (970) 209-8463 ly browned, remove from heat, add the Montrose Farmers Market cheese, and cover the pan. abbie@forealliance.org 2 In a separate stick-free fry pan, put the info@montrosefarmersmarket.com tomatoes and cook at medium hi heat for Special to the Mirror MONTROSE—Montrose County Health & Human Services Environmental Health Office is canceling its August Food Safety Class that’s scheduled for next Tuesday, August 21, 2012. It’s being canceled due to the road closures associated with the Pro Cycle Challenge that will occur that day. The next planned class will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 18th from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Classes are also planned for Tuesday, Octo- ber 16th, and Tuesday, November 20th. The classes are held at Montrose County Health & Human Services building located at 1845 S. Townsend Avenue. Pre-registering for the classes is required. Please call 970-252-5000 and register at least one week in advance of the scheduled class and arrive a few minutes early to complete the registration. The cost of the class is $10.00 and a photo ID is required. Food Handler cards will be issued after Summer Squash Recipe Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Shopping List Method MONTROSE COUNTY HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES EXTENDS IMMUNIZATION WALK-IN HOURS MONTROSE COUNTY RESCHEDULES FOOD SAFETY CLASS successful completion of the class. Hepatitis A vaccinations will be available and recommended for food service workers and the general public. Two doses, six to seven months apart, are required for the best immunity. The first dose is free. There may be a fee for the second dose, depending on vaccine availability. Food workers or the general public can schedule the first dose by calling 970-2525000. Make a difference…Partner Up MENTORS NEEDED Call 970-249-1116 “A government responsive to citizen needs, quality of life and individual liberty.” The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 16 The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 “Save the Hotchkiss Barn!” continued Page 17 The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 18 ARTS AND CULTURE OURAY PERFORMING ARTS GUILD PRESENTS SAN JUAN CHAMBER MUSICFEST Special to the Mirror OURAY--For the 10th consecutive year Max Levinson of Boston will be returning to Ouray Co. for the San Juan Chamber MusicFest. This year he brings his wife, acclaimed celloist Allison Eldredge and violinist Nurit Pacht to complete the trio. This year the program includes five elements to both entice the audience new to chamber music and entertain those who anticipate their return each year. The first concert will be on August 23rd at the 4H Event Center in Ridgway at 7:30 p.m.. This concert is called a "Classical Cafe" where the audience will sit at cafe tables and enjoy 3 centuries of classical music, from Bach to Lerner and Loewe. The program will both educate and entertain. On August 24th at 7:30 p.m., the 3 Boston based musicians will offer Master Classes for area musicians who would like an opportunity to improve their musical presentation. MaryElla House of Max Levinson of Bostom will return to Ouray for the 2012 San Juan Ouray, mehralph@msn.com is the contact for these classes. Chamber Music Fest. Courtesy photo. ROCC Talk Explores History of Mining in Ouray County Ouray County Historical Museum Curator Don Paulson. Courtesy photo. Special to the Mirror OURAY--Ouray County’s mining ruins are frail shadows of the robust and complex enterprises that once drove the area’s economy, just as tourism does today. Don Paulson, curator of the Ouray County Historical Museum, will reveal what went on in those mines through the 19th and early 20th Centuries at the next Ridgway-Ouray Community Council (ROCC) Talk. “Mines, Miners and Mining Towns: The History of Hard Rock Mining in Ouray County,” will be Thursday, August 16 at the Ridgway Town Hall. The lecture and slide show begin at 7 p.m. following coffee and refreshments at 6:45 p.m. Admission is free. Using Ouray County mines as examples, Paulson will focus on how mining was carried out in the 1890s and how the techniques have changed over the years. The mines, mills, tunnels and aerial trams constructed in rugged terrain were feats of engineering for their time. Some mines gave rise to large communities such as Red Mountain Town, whose population reached almost 600 in 1890. Paulson also will discuss the rise and fall of gold and silver booms in the area and the dangers inherent to the profession. He will address the environmental impact of historical mining as well as the challenges and triumphs of mining site preservation in Ouray County. Paulson holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Indiana University. He taught at California State University, Los Angeles, from 1970 to 2006 and chaired the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry for eight years. After his retirement, he and his wife, Beth, chose Ouray as their fulltime retirement home. Paulson is a board member of the Ridgway Railroad Museum and the Ouray County Historical Society. In addition to serving as the historical museum curator, he is editor of the OCHS Journal. In his spare time, he enjoys photography, hiking and jeeping in search of yet another mine or railroad right-of-way. The public is welcome to attend ROCC Talks on the third Thursday of evennumbered months, and ROCC business meetings, also third Thursdays, in oddnumbered months. All meetings begin at 7 p.m., after refreshments and socializing, in the Ridgway Town Hall community room. The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 19 ARTS AND CULTURE MONTROSE PHOTOGRAPHER SWEEPS PHOTO COMPETITIONS MONTROSE--When Montrose photographer Cara Fandel decided to enter some of her work in the Montrose County Fair Art Show this year, she had no idea that she would walk away with a show-stopping 14 ribbons. Among the honors Fandel received for her fair entries were Best of Show, B/ W :Shhh...(pictured); People's Choice: Walk in Peace (pictured); three first place ribbons (Shhh..., Truchas Life, Open Sesame); two second place: Lost Horse Mill, Sunkissed (B/W); third place: Pilot's Knob, Aspen Trail; fourth place: Moun- tain Rainbow, Orange Marmalade; Merit Ribbons: Round-up, Field of Snowflowers, Aspen Trail. In addition to her wins at the Montrose County Fair, Fandel took third place in the Ouray County Historical Society Photo Show which closes this week, and in the past has won an ADDY marketing award and first place in the Needle Rock Art Exhibition a few years ago. “I'm haven't entered too many exhibits over the years,” said Fandel, a longtime photojournalist. “My work is primarily for my clients, so “Walk in Peace” by Cara Fandel. competition hasn't been a priority. But it's nice to be recognized and have this work validated. “Fine art photography had been mostly a form of personal enjoyment. However, I'm hoping to extend my work into other venues.” Most of Cara Fandel’s pictures are available for sale at the Region 10 Enterprise Center (300 North Cascade) and range in price from $175-$285. “Shhh…” by Cara Fandel. REAL ESTATE MARKET REPORT Click here to catch Montrose Realtor Valerie Meyers’ weekly Real Estate Market Report...from the road! Valerie Meyers, Realtor, GRI Coldwell Banker Bailey & Co 2023 S. Townsend Avenue, Montrose, CO 81401 970-209-1378 Cell 970-257-6748 Direct The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 20 FIRST ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT FOR HOMESTEAD AT MONTROSE MONTROSE--The first annual fundraiser golf tournament for Volunteers of America The Homestead at Montrose was a great success. Thirty-four teams played on Saturday Aug. 4th at the Black Canyon Golf Course and the winners were: First Flight: First Gross: Thordy Jacobson and Bill Wolfe; First Flight First Net; Tony Licwinko and Rex Swanson; First Flight 2nd Gross: Herb Mills and Riley Willis; First Flight 2nd Net: Ted Betz and Keenan Betz. Second Flight First Gross : Ed Otero & Joe Largent; Second Flight First Net: Randy Lehman & Bryan Quinlan; Second Flight 2nd Gross: Stewart Goforth & Jorene Goforth; Second Flight 2nd Net: Konnie Miller & Jack Bowen. Far left-First Flight Winners were (left to right) Thordy Jacobson and Bill Wolfe; (left) Rex Swanson and Tony Licwinko. Below, Second Flight FirstNet: Randy Lehman & Bryan Quinlan; below left, Rex Swanson and Elaine Moore. THANK YOU... ...to Ken Brown, Pro of Black Canyon Golf Course; to Elaine Moore for being instrumental in the silent auction; to Rex Swanson for his endless hours of volunteering and making sure things were running smoothly; to the Staff at the Homestead--We couldn’t do this without our volunteers and staff! Thanks also to the Sandtrap Restaurant and staff, to our trophy sponsor Aflac/Rex Swanson, and to Pancheros Mexican Grill for the great lunch. Finally, a special thanks to our golfers—it wouldn’t happen without you! The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 21 Advertisement The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 22 MONTROSE DEPOT CELEBRATES 100 YEARS! Mountain men “Coonskinner,” “Wild Bill” and “Skinner” check out Modern day Montrose at the 100-year celebration of the Montrose Railroad Depot Saturday, Aug. 11. Montrose County Commissioner David White beats the hot weather with a Snowball. A petting zoo helped remind kids of Montrose’s agricultural heritage. Left, kids also enjoyed riding the mini-train at the 100-year festivities. Above, Amy Harmsen and daughter Addie were among those who showed up to celebrate. The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 23 Taking Care to a New Level By Eva Veitch Advertisement The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 24 OUT AND ABOUT IN MONTROSE AND BEYOND! Brian of Pollux Clothing Company poses with the shop’s extremely stylish portable dressing van on Main Street in Montrose. The van has been completely decorated by Pollux owner Ivy Parnasius. Pam Dunlap has moved her boutique, The Tattered Rabbit, from Delta to 305 East Main Street in Montrose. The Tattered Rabbit specializes in new and gently used items for mothers, infants and children. Above and below—last weekend’s Ridgway Arts & Crafts Rendezvous in Ridgway Town Park featured artists and artisans of all kinds, including caricature and henna tattoos. James Pulfer ties flies at Toad’s Guide Shop (309 East Main). The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 25 Montrose Deals, Events Offered Around USA Pro Challenge MONTROSE - The City of Montrose, Colo. - host to the Stage 2 start of the 2012 USA Pro Challenge cycling race - is offering a number of ways for cycling fans to enjoy themselves before, during and after the big event rolls through town. Montrose has dubbed August "Bike Month" and has a jam-packed events calendar that includes rides, concerts and more. Tickets for the Pro Challenge VIP tent are $75 each and may be purchased by calling 970-249-5000. Montrose lodging partners are also offering amazing deals, with rooms starting as low as $75 at the Country Lodge. Lodging is also available at Days Inn (rates start at $135) and Hampton Inn (starting at $149). This is just a sampling of what's happening in Montrose around the USA Pro Challenge in Montrose. Aug. 16--MBA Community Costume Cruise This event, sponsored by the Montrose Area Bicycle Alliance (MABA) and Main in Motion, promotes bicycle advocacy in Montrose. Enjoy the parade down Main Street, as well as a costume contest for prizes. Aug. 16--Bike Decorating Contest on Main Street. Businesses, non-profits, families and individuals are invited to decorate a bike to display on Main Street from Aug. 16-22. The first-place winner gets a $500 prize. Aug. 18--Youth Appreciation Day. This event, celebrating all things kids, features activities for youth at Baldrigdge Park and all over town. Aug. 18--Downtown Poker Cruise & Crawl (3-6 p.m.) Walk or ride your bike to various downtown restaurants and businesses to collect five playing cards. The players with the best three hands win prizes. Aug. 18--MABA/MRLD Bike-In Movie, 6 p.m. Bike to Rotary Park to enjoy food vendors, live music, a presentation by actor Bruce Thompson, and a showing of the bike-themed movie, "American Flyers," in which Thompson starred. Aug. 19--UPC/MABA Club Ride--This 27-mile ride utilizies the parade loop of the USA Pro Challenge Stage 2 start. The first 75 riders to sign up receive a USA Pro Challenge bag that includes a commemorative t-shirt, sticker, bike tool and more. The $25 entry fee includes a post-ride meal at RnR Sports Bar. Download the registration form at www.montroseUSAprochallenge.com/ clubride/. Aug. 20--Rally with the Wailers Concert at The Bridges Golf & Country Club. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and the opening band starts playing at 5:30. The Wailers take the stage at 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $20 and may be purchased by visiting www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/256459. (iSponsors can purchase a combo package, which offers $5 off the concert ticket price.) Concert-goers are encouraged to bring a blanket or camping chairs on which to sit. New Belgium Brewing, the official beer partner for the USA Pro Challenge, will be available at the concert, along with various other food and beverage items. Aug. 21--USA Pro Challenge Stage 2 Start 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.Get up close and personal with the pro riders at the Start Village at Montrose Pavilion. The race begins at 11:25 a.m. After the cyclists take off the party continues at the Pavilion with live music, food, drinks, fun and games. There will also be a JumboTron to watch the race action live. Aug. 31--Full Moon Cruiser Ride (9 p.m.) Grab your bike lights and glosticks for this ride around Montrose under the full moon. Meet outside Horsefly Brewery. The USA Pro Challenge leads 135 of the world's best cyclists on a race through the Colorado Rockies, Aug. 20-26. Montrose will serve as the Aug. 21 host of Stage 2 Start on Tuesday, Aug. 21. About the USA Pro Challenge August is bike month in Montrose! (www.USAProCyclingChallenge.com) For seven consecutive days, the world's top athletes race through the majestic Rockies, reaching higher altitudes than they've ever had to endure - more than two miles in elevation. One of the largest cycling events in United States history, the 2012 USA Pro Cycling Challenge will feature the best of the best in professional cycling, competing on a challenging course through some of America's most beautiful scenery. Referred to as "America's Race," the second annual USA Pro Cycling Challenge will take place August 20-26, 2012, and travel through 12 host cities from Durango to Denver. More than 1 million spectators are expected to once again line the route to see if Levi Leipheimer will defend his title as reigning champion, while millions more around the world watch the race live on television and online through the Tour Tracker. More information can be found online at www.USAProCyclingChallenge.com and on Twitter at @USAProChallenge. THANKS FOR READING THE MONTROSE MIRROR! CALL 970-275-5791 FOR AD RATES AND INFORMATION! The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 26 Hold the Date! Upcoming Business and Cultural Events ONGOING- Montrose County Historical Museum will offer “Local Legends and True Tales” Historical Walking tours on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month. The walks will begin at 6 p.m. and last about 2 hours, with a $5 suggested donation. For more information call 970-2492085. Aug. 11-100 Year Celebration of the Montrose Denver & Rio Grande Railroad (D&RGRR) Depot. Aug. 12—George Winston Solo Piano Concert, benefit for Montrose Education Foundation. For more information call 970- 249-9438 or email sandyh@MontroseEDC.org or patriciac@MontroseEDC.org. Aug. 15—Forum at Heidi’s Brooklyn Deli (1521 Oxbow Dr.) Speakers are Nick Wolverton of Wycliffe Bible Translators at 7 a.m. and Montrose City Manager Bill Bell at 8 a.m. Coffee is $1. Aug. 16—Main in Motion, Downtown 5 to 8 p.m. Aug. 16—Montrose Bicycle Alliance Community Costume Cruise (Main in Motion), costume contest and bike decorating contest with $500 prize. Aug. 17-Ouray County Historical Society presents Vignettes of History. All three venues for Vignettes of History are in close proximity of each other on Main Street in downtown Ouray. Tickets for the entire evening are $75 per person or $25 for the performance only. For reservations and information about dinner options, call the Ouray County Historical Museum at 970- 325-4576. Aug. 18—Downtown Poker Cruise and Crawl 3 to 6 p.m. Walk or ride your bike to various downtown restaurants and businesses to collect five playing cards. The players with the best three hands win prizes. Aug. 18—Montrose celebrates Youth Appreciation Day! Various times and locations. Aug. 18--MABA/MRLD Bike-In Movie, 6 p.m. Bike to Rotary Park to enjoy food vendors, live music, a presentation by actor Bruce Thompson, and a showing of the bike-themed movie, "American Flyers," in which Thompson starred. Aug. 20--Rally with the Wailers Concert at The Bridges Golf & Country Club. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and the opening band starts playing at 5:30. The Wailers take the stage at 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $20 and may be purchased by visiting www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/256459. (iSponsors can purchase a combo package, which offers $5 off the concert ticket price.) Concert-goers are encouraged to bring a blanket or camping chairs on which to sit. New Belgium Brewing, the official beer partner for the USA Pro Challenge, will be available at the concert, along with various other food and beverage items. Aug. 21--USA Pro Challenge Stage 2 Start 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Get up close and personal with the pro riders at the Start Village at Montrose Pavilion. The race begins at 11:25 a.m. After the cyclists take off the party continues at the Pavilion with live music, food, drinks, fun and games. There will also be a JumboTron to watch the race action live. Aug. 23-San Juan Chamber Music Fest, 4H Events Center in Ridgway—Classical Café begins at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.ocpag.org for more information. Aug. 24-San Juan Chamber Music Fest presents master classes for area musicians.Contact mehralph@msn.com to learn more. Aug. 28—Montrose ACT Business After Hours, Montrose Daily Press, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 31--Full Moon Cruiser Ride (9 p.m.) Grab your bike lights and glosticks for this ride around Montrose under the full moon. Meet outside Horsefly Brewery. Sept. 2– Paint Your Wagon opens at Magic Circle Theatre. 970-249-7838. Sept. 6—The League of Women Voters of Montrose County will be bestowing its 2012 “Making Democracy Work Award” during its Western Slope Roundup to be held at The Bridges clubhouse in Montrose from 6pm to 8pm. In addition to the award ceremony, the event will offer an opportunity for attendees to meet and mix with candidates running for office in the November general election, as well as local current elected officials. The $15 admission cost for the evening includes appetizers, and there will be a cash bar and door prizes. Sept. 7—Habitat for Humanity ReStore Grand opening, 1601 North Townsend. Live music, live auction, BBQ supper, tours of the new facility! Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in advance at the old ReStore (309 N. Fourth). Sept. 7-First Friday Stroll Downtown, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Sept. 8—Official opening of new Habitat ReStore (1601 N. Townsend). Sept. 8-9—Black Canyon Horse Racing Association end of season race, Montrose County Fairgrounds. Admission $30, post time 1 p.m. Sept. 11-Grand Opening Welcome Home Montrose Warrior Resource Center (11 South Park Ave.), Noon to 7 p.m. Sept. 13-West End Senior Resource Fair, Senior Community Meal Site in Nucla, 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free lunch if you’re over 60! Sept. 15—Simmer Food & Wine presents Hartman Farm Dinner. Call 970-252-1152. Sept. 16—Log Hill Lungbuster Challenge to benefit OCHS. Entry fee is $40; for more information and to register for this event visit: www.loghilllungbusterchallenge.com or phone the OCHS at 970-325-4576. Sept. 18--Community Solar Array, 6 p.m., DMEA in Delta 21191 H 75 Road. Sept. 20-Community Solar Array, 6 p.m., DMEA in Montrose 11925 6300 Road. Sept. 20—Montrose welcomes the Second Annual BeaconFest to the Montrose Pavilion (1800 Pavilion Dr.) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m! Sept. 21-23—All Nations Indian Nations Pow Wow, Montrose County Fairgrounds. Oct. 3-4—Andrisen Morton trunk showing (10-3) at Simmer (320 East Main St.) and wine dinner (10/4) to benefit Bosom Buddies. Oct. 20—Rollin’ On The River 5K Run, Walk and Roll on the Riverfront Trail at the Botanical Gardens, 10 a.m., registration starts at 8:30 a.m.. This will be a noncompetitive family fun event benefitting Mesa Developmental Services’ children’s programs for children with developmental delays and disabilities. 256-8640 or 256-8612 for more information. Oct. 20-Sixth Annual FIDO Fun Run. For more information visit www.fidomontrose.org. Nov. 9—Sorry, Wrong Chimney! Opens at Magic Circle Theatre. Call 970-249-7838. Nov. 17-San Juan Weavers Guild Show & Sale, Holiday Inn Express Montrose (1391 South Townsend Ave.) 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 28-18th Annual Thanksgiving Friends Celebration, Friendship Hall, Montrose County Fairgrounds. The Montrose Mirror | August 14, 2012 Page 27 MURDOCH’S SUPPORTS A DRUG-FREE MONTROSE! MONTROSE--The staff at Murdoch's supporting Our Biz Supports a Drug Free Montrose County, a program of the Awareness and Prevention Committee for the Coalition For a Drug Free Montrose County to make information available to all persons shopping in our county. Courtesy photo. Advertisement At left, one of the antique cars on display at the Depot on Aug. 11. Photo by Dave Bernier. Region 10 Enterprise Center 300 North Cascade, Suite G-2 Montrose, CO 81401 970-275-5791 www.montrosemirror.com Email Us: Editor@montrosemirror.com Above, Gregg Haskell, a member of the San Juan Model Railroad and Historical Society, shows off a replica of the 1912 Montrose train depot. Right, Mountain man Gary Sloan stands in front of the Montrose train depot during the 100 year celebration on Saturday. Photos by Dave Bernier. Advertisement