Briefly News ... June 29 edition

Frontier to drop Denver-GJ flights

AP — Frontier Airlines says it plans to end service to GJ Regional Airport Sept. 14. The Denver-based carrier has seen a gradual increase in passengers since launching service between GJ and Denver in May 2008, but it says the increase has not been good enough to justify continued service.

Rex Tippetts, director of aviation for the airport in GJ, says United Express still offers flights between the two cities.

Writing Workshop

“Head in the Clouds: Writing the Novel/Memoir,” a two-credit, intensive writing workshop for writers and teachers will be held in downtown GJ by author Sandra Dorr July 20-24, 9-5 w/lunch break. Info: sandradorr.com, 257-1498. This class requires participants to read three short books ahead of time, so sign up now.

Saturday Country Jam crime stats

The MC Sheriff's Office reports, with the assistance of Colo. State Liquor Enforcement Officers and GJPD: 38 alcohol offenses (minor in possession); 2 contributing alcohol to a minor; 2 trespass; 1 domestic Violence; 2 assaults; 1 thefts.

Colorado State Patrol reports 14 DUIs for the same reporting period.



The 5 Browns Aug. 29.

GJ Symphony announces two special events Sat., Aug. 29, featuring virtuosic sibling pianists, The 5 Browns. Performing classical and jazz-inspired compositions on five Steinway grand pianos, the Browns offer an awe-inspiring spectacle sure to excite music lovers of all ages; 2pm matinee $20 or $5/student, 7:30pm $50/VIP or $35/$30/$25 or $10/student. On sale July 2. Info: gjsymphony.org.

July 4 parade

The annual Downtown Independence Day Parade is July 4, 6 p.m.. Main Street between 8th & 1st Streets. Theme: Lincoln Bicentennial 1809-2009, Live the Legacy. Entries are still being accepted. Info: downtowngj.org or call 245-9697. $25 per entry.

County is now Twittering

The county is joining the popular social networking band wagon. Let's just see if they can keep it to 140 characters.

If you don't know what we're talkin' ‘bout, then move on to the next brief. Otherwise, follow MC on Twitter at “MesaCountyNews.”

If you don't have a Twitter account, check updates at: www.twitter.com/mesacountynews.

 

MC Fair volunteers needed

July 17 through July 26 at MC Fairgrounds (2785 U.S. Highway 50 on Orchard Mesa). Help is needed setting up the exhibits before the Fair, help with various booths and just help out where needed. Day and evening scheduling available. Info: Donna Page, Mesa County Fair Coordinator, 256-1528.

‘Up With People'

The world-renowned singing and dancing performance group “Up with People” is coming to the 2009 Mesa County Fair, 12:30pm, Sun., July 26, grandstands arena, MC Fairgrounds. Info: 256-1528.

Registration now open for Camp Good Grief!

Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado's Child-Teen Program will hold its 9th annual Camp Good Grief! July 31-Aug. 2 at Camp Cedaredge. For children entering grades 3 through 9 who have lost a loved one. Cost is $35, which includes transportation, room, meals and activities. Scholarships available. Info: hospicewco.com or 245-5377.

Red light, green light

CDOT and City of GJ are putting in traffic signals and street lights at I-70B and 23 Rd. The project was contracted to M.A. Concrete, Inc. for the bargain basement price of $841,000.



Great art patrons

Mike and Kathy Hurshman have decided to sell a significant portion of their fine art collection and are going to offer for auction more than 100 paintings, drawings, ceramics, etc. Big name stuff. 10% of proceeds to The Art Center. Sale July 11-12, noon to 4. Private viewing: 361-7490.

Colorado PTA is a'comin'

The Colorado Parent Teacher Assoc., the umbrella organization for parents, teachers and administrators, is holding town hall meetings across the state. They'll be here in GJ, Fri., July 10, 6-8pm, Emerson Administration Bldg., 930 Ute Ave. Info: office@copta.org.

Don't be a victim; help a victim

Volunteer to be a Victim Assistant Program volunteer (VAPs) with the GJPD. If you have compassion, a desire to serve, an appreciation for victim's rights, then this is for you. VAPs provide 24 hour, 7 day-a-week crisis intervention for victims of crime and other traumatic events. Training begins mid-April. Info: Mary, 244-3580.