Sheridan Media News

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	*MAY 2005 NEWS ARCHIVE* Questions or comments, please call (307) 672-7421 or click here to email us. Email the news department directly by clicking here.

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May 31, 2005

IT’S BACK TO WORK FOR THE SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL AS THEY WORK TOWARDS A FINAL BUDGET - It’s the last day of May and for the City of Sheridan it means exactly a month before the new fiscal year. The city council continues to work toward finalizing a budget for 2005 – 2006. Mayor Dave Kinskey says they’ll continue to fine tune: . The next budget meeting will come in the form of a special council meeting in the city council chambers at City Hall Wednesday night. It begins at 7 and is open to the public.

Walter Gray of Dayton (winner of new car at Hammer Chevrolet)

DAYTON RESIDENT WALTER GRAY SAYS HE DOESN’T EVEN WIN AT BINGO – BUT THIS WEEKEND, WALT WON A NEW CAR - Walter Gray says it’s the luckiest he’s ever been. The Dayton resident said he was interested in buying a new car … so visited the Sheridan showroom of Hammer Chevrolet on Friday. That’s when he decided to enter the General Motors “On Star” promotion: . Walter Gray will find out this week just what GM car he won. Hammer Chevrolet is pleased, too. This is their second new car given away in the “On Star” promotion in the last month.

SHERIDAN PD’S SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM HELPS JOHNSON COUNTY DEPUTIES YESTERDAY MORNING - Sheridan Police Lieutenant Steve Matheson, who also serves on the PD’s Special Response Team, tells us that the SRT responded to a call from Johnson County early yesterday morning. It all started in Natrona County with a high-speed chase. The suspect, driving a Jeep Cherokee lined with tinted windows, headed into Johnson County, where authorities were able to contain the vehicle three miles south of Buffalo on I-25. However, the driver, a woman armed with a rifle, wouldn’t cooperate, and so nine of thirteen Sheridan SRT members responded to assist in a vehicle extraction technique. She was eventually taken into custody. Highway Patrol had that section of the interstate blocked for about three hours. Lt. Matheson says that our team was there for about one hour and back in time to set up for the Memorial Day parade here in town.

SHERIDAN GETS READY TO HOST THE MISS WYOMING SCHOLARSHIP PAGEANT – HELP STILL NEEDED IN THESE LAST WEEKS - The final weeks of preparation are underway for the Miss Wyoming Scholarship pageant. Activities begin July 5th, with the big night held July 9th at the WYO Theatre. Co-Executive Director Kelly Miller-Smart tells us that there are six girls from around the state who will be here to compete for the crown that will take one of them to the Miss America pageant in September. There are some needs yet, that we as a community can help with for pageant night. Kelly says: . Ideally, Kelly says they’d love four each of high school-age girls and guys. And a critical need at this point? . What kind of person are they looking for? . Kelly says that there will also be several activities for the contestants’ families. The current Miss Wyoming, Megan Reichert, will be our guest on Public Pulse later this week, and will have much more to tell us about this exciting event coming to Sheridan.

Salute from the Courthouse Wreath Laying Ceremony

Pictured here is Staff Sgt. Melvin Widstrand of the Wyo. Army National Guard, wife Dayle, daughter Summer and son Tanner

LIGHT RAIN DIDN’T KEEP RECORD CROWDS AWAY FROM MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONIES YESTERDAY - Amidst a weekend of fishing derbies, picnics, camping, and graduation festivities, the community of Sheridan knew what the Memorial Day Holiday is really all about. . One of the largest-ever crowds attended the parade and subsequent wreath-laying ceremony at the Sheridan County Courthouse yesterday morning to honor the military troops who gave their lives for our country from the Revolutionary War to the present wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Featured in the parade—members of the National Guard battalion that returned last month from Iraq. Later yesterday afternoon, their families hosted a bbq up at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds and presented each soldier and loved ones their welcome home flag that you saw lining Main Street awhile back. Staff Sgt. Melvin Widstrand told Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young what it is like to be home: . The Post Everlasting Ceremony at the Cemetery was held despite a light drizzle—the rain actually added to the event, tears from the sky, mingling with the tears of a grateful crowd, to honor their war dead, and those veterans who passed away since Memorial Day last year. Here are but a few of the hundred or so named: And after the roll, under the grey sky and amidst a sea of flags, the Ceremony ended to these sounds: . Some Memorial Day Highlights

WYOMING GAME & FISH SAYS “HANDS OFF” ON BABY WILDLIFE - This is the time of the year that animal mothers give birth to their young in the wild. Wyoming Game & Fish’s Warren Mischke says that brings up an annual concern: . If a youngster picks up that baby animal, do your best to return it to the exact spot where it was found. The mother knows where her young are and will almost certainly return. And in the rare instance when a fawn or other baby animal is found and the mother is known to be dead: . Sage advice from Warren Mischke, Information Specialist at the Sheridan office of Wyoming Game & Fish. One other note: both state & federal laws forbid possession of game and most non-game animals so adopting a wildlife baby is not only bad for the baby … but illegal.

May 28, 2005

IT’S AN ACTIVITIES-JAMMED MEMORIAL DAY IN THE CITY OF SHERIDAN. WE’VE GOT THE SCHEDULE FOR YOU - No need for us to tell you that Memorial Day Weekend is underway. It’s the unofficial kickoff of summer. There are a myriad of activities today & Sunday and several patriotic events on Monday . Mayor Dave Kinskey with the Monday morning activities. Monday afternoon the big event is a City Wide Troop Appreciation Picnic in the Exhibit Hall at the Fairgrounds. Jackie Roush is one of the organizers of that event . A catered picnic with hot dogs, burgers, salads, desserts, non-alcoholic beverages and all the trimmings. Live music & a special thank you presentation to the dozens of soldiers home for the holiday. Again, it’s the Sheridan City Wide Troop Appreciation Picnic. It’s all free … in the exhibit hall at the fairgrounds. It begins Monday at Noon and will last into the evening.

TWO BLOCKS OF DANA AVENUE CLOSED INDEFINITELY - Residents living between 13th and 15th Streets on Dana Avenue will have to find alternate means of travel for the time being, as Sheridan County has closed that portion of the road. Sheridan County Special Projects Coordinator Gary Meyer tells us . How long will the road be closed? . A little inconvenience…but better to have it fixed right. Meantime, Meyer suggests an alternate route .

May27, 2005

Kyle Taylor takes was the first person to jump into Kendrick Pool yesterday

A SURE SIGN OF THE SUMMER SEASON: OPENING DAY AT THE KENDRICK PARK POOL - Cloudy skies and a temperature in the low 60’s isn’t exactly swimming weather … but for a hearty few, it didn’t matter. Sheridan’s Kendrick Park Pool opened for the season at 2pm yesterday – rain or shine! Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young was on hand – with microphone and both still & video cameras – and an eager staff ready to welcome the bravest of the brave. Our audio essay begins with pool manager Florence Sunquist: . And who might have been that first person to take the plunge? That would be 13 year old Kyle Taylor of Sheridan Junior High: . Like we said: opening day Thursday at Kendrick Park Pool. And hats off to Kyle & friends for braving the chilly air to … take that plunge. The first jump into Kendrick Pool

WYSTAR’S JENNIFER JONES SAYS THE BATTLE AGAINST METH IN SHERIDAN COUNTY IS SHOWING NO SIGNS OF ENDING - Jennifer Jones is on the front lines in the battle against meth in Sheridan County. As the Outpatient Program Director of WYSTAR, hardly a day goes by when she’s not helping victims or telling others about the “methamphetamine facts of life” out there: Facts like young girls 11 or 12 years old start with diet pills to lose weight. Facts like men working in the CBM fields using meth to fight fatigue. Facts like: . Words of wisdom being dispensed to Sheridan’s Rotary Club on Thursday. Like we said, she’s spreading the word as best she can: . The first step, Jones says, is awareness … and acceptance that there IS a problem. Then it’s all about education – our tireless worker says. If potential abusers knew the facts BEFORE they started, we’d be in much better shape. For more information please visit http://www.wystarrecovery.com or call (307) 672.2044.

WEST NILE PREVENTION TIPS – SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMUNITY HEALTH SAYS “AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A POUND OF CURE” - With mosquito season in full swing less than a month away, with West Nile Virus once again a threat against both human & horse, Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young concludes our special series: .

Sheridan City Counciman Robert Webster

CITY OF SHERIDAN WORK SESSIONS ARE SLATED TO CONTINUE INTO NEXT WEEK - City of Sheridan department heads held more than a dozen hours of budget work sessions this week … and they’re not done yet. City Councilman Robert Webster is a 10 year veteran of these sessions. His analysis on how they’re going this year? . Critical issues have been condensed and all parties are better briefed, Webster says … and they’re ready for the next step: . Budgets must be ready by the final week in June according to Wyoming state statute. No guarantees they’ll be ready, says our budget veteran, but Webster says he IS positive that the parties concerned are in better shape this year than in years’ past.

DISTRICT TWO TEACHERS EARN A BIG BOOST IN PAY - We knew it was coming … and now we’ve got the details. Sheridan County District 2 teachers & salaried employees will be earning bigger paychecks beginning this fall. Superintendent Craig Doherty says the increases are sizeable: 11 and onhalf percent for salaried employees … 8 & ½ percent for teachers.He gives us an example: . Superintendent Doherty says this pay hike should insure that Sheridan County District 2 teachers remain among the highest paid in the state: .

MR. MATHIS’ 5TH GRADE CLASS AT HIGHLAND PARK CELEBRATES LAST DAY - Thursday was the last day of school around Sheridan County. Mr. Mathis teaches 5th grade at Highland Park Elementary, and is retiring. As a matter of fact, yesterday was Mr. Mathis’ last day. Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson caught up with the class to see what they’ve got cooked up for this summer, and their thoughts about their teacher:

May 26, 2005

HORSE OWNERS ARE ADVISED – THE TIME TO VACCINATE YOUR HORSES AGAINST WEST NILE IS NOW - Health officials across the country are concerned: West Nile Virus is right around the corner. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has part 2 of our 3 part series of the impending mosquito season & what it means to us … and in today’s report … our horses: .

SHERIDAN PUBLIC WORKS PRESENTS THEIR IMPROVEMENT LIST TO THE CITY COUNCIL - One of the most important City of Sheridan budget work sessions was Wednesday. Public Works provided the city council with their long list of improvements. Public Works Director Jackie Flowers say most of these upgrades involve infrastructure. The sewers, she says, are in special need of repair or replacement: . Flowers says Sheridan’s roads are also in desperate need of repair. The city council will review Wednesday’s “wish list” and meet with Public Works again in several days to finalize the project list. The good news: these improvements have been paid for – paid for via the Capital Facilities Sales Tax approved by Sheridan voters two summers ago. Ace Talks With Public Works Director Jackie Flowers

DAYTON TOWN COUNCIL LAST NIGHT APPROVES THE FINAL PHASE OF A 5 YEAR WATER IMPROVEMENT PROJECT - It was a milestone for Dayton last night. The town council approved the final phase of a one-point 3 million dollar water improvement project. A 154 thousand dollar bid was awarded to Hofer Building of Sheridan for a much needed pumping station. Dayton Mayor Bob Wood says this represents a dream-come-true for the community. The pumping station will solve a long-standing problem of water pressure: . This final phase, Wood says should be completed by late summer. The Dayton water system improvement project began in the year 2000.

FAIRBOARD GIVES THUMBS UP TO PHASE II STUDY - The question pondered yesterday by the Sheridan County Fairboard was either to move forward with phase II of the feasibility study, or to shelve the substantial amount of time and money that has already been invested during phase one. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter gives us some insight as to which path was taken: .

HOSPITAL BOARD OF TRUSTEES LOOK AT DRAFT BUDGET FOR UPCOMING FISCAL YEAR - The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees met last night and Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: .

May 25, 2005

CITY OF SHERIDAN BUDGET SESSIONS CONTINUE THIS WEEK – WITH PROGRESS AND PROBLEMS - They’re called “budget overview work sessions” and they’re occupying much of the time of Sheridan City administrators this week. It’s the time that departments present their budgets to the city and, at least this year, find out there’s not enough money for everything they want. Tuesday, the Police & Fire Departments took their turns. The Fire Department, especially, came in for some close scrutiny by, among others, Mayor Dave Kinskey: . And as we might expect, Acting Fire Chief Terry Lenhart saw his staffing needs in a different light: . Another stumbling block could be a strong union contract that may prevent some of the staffing reforms the Mayor says are needed. The Fire Chief counters that some of those reforms could put public safety at risk. The 2 sides remain a quarter-million dollars apart.

MOSQUITO ABATEMENT TIME BEGINS RIGHT NOW, LOCAL PUBLIC OFFICIALS TELL US. WE PRESENT PART ONE OF A THREE PART SERIES - Mosquito season is weeks if not days away and prevention & abatement begin now. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has met with more than a dozen local officials on the subject and presents part one of our special three part series: . For more information contact the City of Sheridan Mosquito Hotline at 672-7083, The Sheridan County Weed and Pest – 674-3740 or visit www.badskeeter.org

HIGHWAY PATROL TROOPERS READY FOR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND - Memorial Day is this weekend—that means special observances, as well as bbq’s, lots of outdoor activities, and special travel. And with that extra travel comes the possibility of highway accidents. You’ll be happy to know that the state’s—indeed the nation’s—roadways will be safer because of a program called Operation CARE. Extra manpower with the Wyoming Highway Patrol will be used in an effort to help prevent the three main causes of highway fatalities—speeding, impaired driving, and failure to buckle up. Here in Wyoming, I - 80 has been designated as the CARE highway during the three-day weekend. So, who pays for all the obvious overtime hours? Federal 402 grants, secured by Wy-DOT’s Highway Safety Branch.

THE EMPLOYMENT PICTURE IN SHERIDAN COUNTY IS BRIGHTER THAN EVER – SAYS THE WOMAN IN CHARGE - The latest unemployment numbers are out … and they’re “lookin’ good.” So says Barbara Hall – she’s the Sheridan & Johnson County regional manager for Wyoming’s Department of Work Force Services. She calls the latest Sheridan County unemployment figure pretty close to what she terms “full employment”: . 3 point 8 in April … down from the 4 point 2 in March. The trend is good, she says, and the job openings prove it. How many jobs need filling in Sheridan County? . Sheridan County’s 3 point 8 percent unemployment matches the statewide rate. Sheridan & Wyoming both fare considerably better than the US jobless rate in April of 4 point 9 percent.

GILLETTE FAMILY LOSES SON IN IRAQ - This Memorial Day weekend takes on significant meaning now for a Gillette mom and her family as they prepare for her son’s funeral. Pam Lindsay’s son, Sergeant Kurt Schamberg of Ohio, died last Thursday, the victim of a roadside bomb in Iraq.His second tour in Iraq was scheduled to end in three weeks. Pam said that she and her son had planned for him to come to Gillette and then visit the Big Horn Mountains where he liked to four-wheel. She said that he even had talked about buying property and moving to northeast Wyoming when his obligation to the Army ended next year. Sgt. Schamberg's funeral is scheduled for next Tuesday in Orwell, Ohio.

May 24, 2005

SEVERAL BUSINESSES INFESTED BY GERMAN E-MAILS - For about a week now, we at Sheridan Media have been greeted each day with German e-mails—yesterday morning, our receptionist deleted over 7-thousand. Where is this German invasion coming from? We asked Brian Werther from Visionary Communications for the answer: . That’s a worm with a very technical name for “the trouble starts with the sender”. . What gets tricky is that sometimes the sender box will indicate that the message is from someone you know—and surely if it’s someone you know, than the attachment should be something you can trust. Right? Wrong! So how do you fight this nasty worm, that first made its appearance, worldwide, on May 2nd, and has since produced 51 variants of itself? . Bottom line, Brian says, folks need to do two things: . This morning, as far as we can tell, the worm has been defeated.

PLANS FOR A NEW SHERIDAN COUNTY MUSEUM ARE ABOUT TO MOVE INTO THE FAST LANE - The Sheridan County Historical Society operates a small museum on Alger Avenue in Sheridan. That could change though. Museum Director Dana Prater says it’s all because of a letter of intent to buy the former Bubba’s Barbecue site on 5th street: . That agreement stipulates that the Society has until August first to obtain the million dollars needed to take over the Bubba’s property. Does that mean we can soon expect a major museum fundraising campaign? . Sheridan County Historical Society director Dana Prater.

Charles Woods, Goliath's caregiver, giving out Goliath trading cards to kids

Goliath - World's Tallest Horse at Shiptons Big R

SHERIDAN RESIDENTS TURN OUT IN FORCE TO SEE GOLIATH -- WE’VE GOT ALL THE DETAILS FOR YOU - Shipton’s Big R had a hit on their hands – or perhaps we should say a “goliath”. In this case it was THE Goliath – listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s tallest living horse. Goliath made a one day only appearance at Shipton’s – and folks turned out by the hundreds Monday. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young was there and files this report:

PADDLEFISH FISHING – IT’S A BIG PASTIME IN MONTANA … BUT NOT NECESSARILY AFTER 5 THIS AFTERNOON. DETAILS UPCOMING. - Paddlefish fishing is a big deal in Montana. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks tell us that more than a few Sheridan County residents make the trek north to try their luck – but that all changes this afternoon: . Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Erin O’Connor says that announcement for paddlefish was just made. That fish, incidentally, has been around for eons. Prehistoric, O’Connor says, and strange looking, too: . You catch paddlefish by snagging or gaffing them … but after 5 o’clock today … and until the start of the season next year, you can only “catch & release.” And, if you’re willing to wait, you might think about dining on some paddlefish. Is it good eating? . and a reminder, you’ll need a 2005 Montana fishing license and a 2005 paddlefish tag even for catch & release paddlefish fishing.

LEATHER TRADE SHOW PARTICIPANTS SAY THEY HAD A GREAT WEEKEND BUT ONE PARTICULAR PROBLEM NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED - With almost a thousand vendors & participants … and with many more who came to see what was going on, the Rocky Mountain Leather Trade Show this past weekend was one of the biggest events … and one of the biggest moneymakers … in Sheridan’s event schedule. Most of those participants have left town … but in their wake, a record amount of interest and money exchanging hands. Saddles, boots, ropes and everything “cowboy” is big these days and getting bigger: . So says Jerry Zonis, a vendor from Southern California. Interestingly enough, Zonis says much of the “cowboy boom” is coming from Europe these days: . And while Germany & Italy catch onto the “cowboy wave”, Sheridan needs to hang onto that wave – and, for that to happen, Zonis says, the Leather Trade Show needs a new venue: . There has been an effort to create such a multi-purpose facility as part of a new Sheridan County Fairgrounds. That’s still very much in the “what if” stage – and it could take years to come to fruition. Folks like Jerry Zonis say they hope it’s sooner … rather than later.

DOWNTOWN SHERIDAN GETS DRESSED UP FOR SUMMER - The Downtown Sheridan Association is proud to announce the annual hanging of the Main Street flower baskets. This is the second year that DSA has provided these eye-catching blooming beauties for the historic downtown section of Main Street. Proceeds from DSA’s annual Wine Festival, held each spring, provide the funding for the hanging baskets. DSA would like to extend big thank you’s to Sheridan College and Landon’s Greenhouse, without whose help, these baskets would not be possible. Chuck Holloway, and his Sheridan College Greenhouse Management class deserve an extra-special thank you, for planting and caring for the flower baskets over the past few months.

THEFT OCCURS LAST NIGHT AT LOCAL MOTEL ROOM - Sheridan Police Officer John King reports that a guest at the Best Western Sheridan Center had a substantial amount of money stolen from their room last night. King says the case is still under investigation and there is not really a suspect at this point. In a separate incident last night, police responded to a call where a highly intoxicated man entered an apartment—we don’t know if he knew the residents—and attempted to strong-arm them. He was charged with battery, malicious destruction, M-I-P, and trespassing.

May 23, 2005

The long line of cars actually moved quickly with most in and out in 20 minutes

IT WAS PERHAPS THE BUSIEST SATURDAY THE SHERIDAN LANDFILL HAS EVER EXPERIENCED – IT WAS TREES FOR TRASH - Trees for Trash. Over the years, it’s become a Sheridan tradition. And why not? A chance to get rid of items – free – and a chance to get a tree in return – also free. This year’s Trees for Trash had a rain delay but when it finally came – this past Saturday – folks turned out in mass. Sheridan Media’s Jim Schellinger was one of the organizers. He said they’re used to crowds: . And for a second year in a row, Trees for Trash has included tires: . How many people showed up for Saturday’s Trees for Trash? How much trash was recycled? We should get all the statistics for you from City of Sheridan Solid Waste later today. Trees for Trash

A NEW ERA BEGINS THIS MORNING AT THE CITY OF SHERIDAN POLICE DEPARTMENT. WE’LL TELL YOU WHY - It’s the first Monday at the Sheridan Police Department without Suzan Guilford in … 24 years! The acting Police Chief retired Friday. The current acting Police Chief … Lieutenant Scott Chandler … says Guilford’s retirement is a big loss for them: . Fortunately, Chandler says, his predecessor is staying in Sheridan … and staying active, too: . Suzan Guilford began her career in the Sheridan Police Department in the dispatch office 24 years ago. She worked her way through the ranks all the way to acting Police Chief. Scott Chandler will hold that post until the permanent Police Chief moves to Sheridan. The City Council announced a week ago that Mike Card … a captain in the Capitola California Police Department was their new pick to head the Sheridan Police force. He’s expected to assume that duty next month.

Sheridan County's Oldest Citizen: Erman Hladky will be 103 on September 4th

THE SHERIDAN SENIOR CENTER SALUTES THE COUNTY’S OLDEST CITIZEN - Sheridan’s Senior Center had quite a celebration this weekend – it was a salute to its oldest citizen: 102 year old E. E. Ladkey. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young was there for the festivities Saturday and files this report: .

Horses rest in this corral just west of Sheridan High School before the final drive to Eatons' Ranch

115 HORSES GALLOP THROUGH SHERIDAN SUNDAY – IT’S PART OF A DECADES-OLD TRADITION - Old timers know all about it. Some tourists were just lucky to be at the right place at the right time. It’s one of best photo opportunities anywhere. We’re talking about Eatons' Ranch running their horses down 5th Street through Sheridan twice a year … and yesteray was no exception. How long has this Cowboy State tradition been going on? We posed that question to drive organizer Jeff Way: . Another question for Jeff: In an era of horse trailers & pavement, are we in danger of losing this tradition? . And after a brief respite in a corral just east of Sheridan High School, the 115 or so horses in this year’s Spring drive finally made it home to Eaton’s Ranch late Sunday afternoon. Video of Eatons' Ranch running of the horses

May 21, 2005

PUBLIC PULSE LINE-UP FOR NEXT WEEK - Sheridan County Historical Society will be on Part 1 and folks from Project Graduation will be on Part 2 of Monday’s Public Pulse. Sheridan College will be our guest on Part 1 Tuesday, while Janet Egland will talk about World No Tobacco Day in Part 2. It’s Sheridan County Commissioners day on Wednesday’s show. And we’ll talk to reps from the Senior Center Thursday in Part 1 and Sam Morton in Part 2 about Team Instruction in Polo and Rodeo, Free to Kids . And Friday, it’s you! Jackson Electric Open Line.

A BEER TRUCK ROLLOVER BLOCKED THE SHERIDAN PORT OF ENTRY ACCESS TO NORTHBOUND EYE-90 FOR MUCH OF FRIDAY - The Wyoming Highway Patrol is blaming a shifting load of beer for a truck rollover just north of the Sheridan City Limits on Friday: . Wyoming Highway Patrol Officer Diaz Motsick with that information. Hundreds of cases of beer were dumped at the accident scene and several dozen feet of guard rail were torn out. The northbound eye-90 on-ramp at the Port of Entry is open for traffic this morning after being closed for much of Friday. . The truck on the exit

SHERIDAN’S ACTING POLICE CHIEF RETIRES AFTER 24 YEARS ON THE FORCE - She served 24 years on the Sheridan Police Force. She started out as a dispatcher and ended up as acting Police Chief. We’re talking about Suzan Guilford. Her last day on the job was Friday – she’s retired and she’s already being missed. Current Mayor Dave Kinskey says Suzan has her best years ahead. Sheridan’s new Police Chief will be Mike Card who comes to Sheridan as a captain in the Capitola, California Police Department. Until he gets here, Sheridan’s acting Police Chief is Lieutenant Scott Chandler.

May 20, 2005

Truck rolled over on I-90 exit

A BEER TRUCK ROLLOVER BLOCKED THE SHERIDAN PORT OF ENTRY ACCESS TO NORTHBOUND EYE-90 FOR SEVERAL HOURS - The Wyoming Highway Patrol blames a shifting load of beer for a truck rollover just north of the Sheridan City Limits at about 10:45 this morning: . Wyoming Highway Patrol Officer Diaz Motsick with that information. Hundreds of cases of beer were dumped at the accident scene and several dozen feet of guard rail were torn out. At last report, the northbound eye-90 on-ramp at the Port of Entry was still closed. The truck on the exit

SHERIDAN’S SUMMERTIME TROLLEY HAS A SUCCESSFUL TRIAL RUN - It’s another sure sign of summer. We’re talking about the Trolley that takes visitors to various destinations in & around Sheridan. It was rolled out for a test run Thursday and Downtown Sheridan Association’s Roger Bent says: “it all went well”: . Regular trolley service begins Memorial Day Weekend and will provide both day & night service: . And we save the best news for last: the trolley is perhaps Wyoming’s best travel bargain: . The Sheridan Trolley … back in service Memorial Day Weekend and providing affordable and comfortable transportation thru Labor Day. Roger Bent from the Downtown Sheridan Association talks about the Trolly

Buses Line the front of the Sheridan Center

ANOTHER WEEK OF SOCCER AT THE BIG HORN EQUESTRIAN CENTER BRINGS BUSLOADS OF ATHLETES TO SHERIDAN - You can see the busses parked near the Sheridan Center – school busses from Casper, Laramie, Albany and high schools from all over the state. They’re here because the Wyoming High School Soccer Championships run today through Saturday at our nearby Big Horn Equestrian Center. Logic would seem to dictate that a state championship would be played in a central location – like Casper – or in a population center – like Laramie or Cheyenne. When it comes to soccer though, Sheridan & Sheridan County always seem to come out on top. It has everything to do with the venue, we’re told: . So says Bryan Chadderdon, a soccer coach at Kelly Walsh High School. Fellow coach Ryan Schaeffer agrees: the Big Horn Equestrian Center is second to none … and he’s sold on Sheridan, too: . The coaches love this tournament … and the kids do too. Kallie Spicer is from Laramie. Her take on Sheridan? . The tourney began Thursday and runs through Saturday. Every player is hoping their stay in Sheridan will be at least that long … because, if it is, it means they’ve made it to the finals.

“TREES FOR TRASH” IS TOMORROW & WE’VE GOT YOUR “GET IN & OUT QUICKLY” HOT TIPS - “Trees for Trash” – delayed a couple of weeks because of inclement weather … is a “go” for tomorrow: . Sheridan Solid Waste Manager Alan Cummins say he’s expecting a huge turnout – and he offers a couple of hot tips for expediting your trip to the landfill: . Something new this year: “Trees for Trash” will be accepting car and small truck tires – without the rims. 2 tires per drop off; possibly more until they meet their one thousand tire quota. And there’s still one more hot tip from Alan Cummins: Smaller loads will be accepted at Mc Donalds – next to the Port of Entry: . Trees for Trash … yet another Sheridan Tradition … from 9am to 2pm tomorrow. Get rid of trash and come home with a tree. Alan Cummins Talks with Ace about Trees for Trash

Sign being put on the Wingate Inn

SHERIDAN’S NEWEST HOTEL ALREADY HAS A “NO VACANCY” SIGN UP - It didn’t take long. The Wingate Inn … Sheridan’s newest destination for a night’s sleep … opened for business yesterday … and they apparently had a pretty good first day: . Proprietor Ron Patterson says his 66 suites offer amenities not available elsewhere. Up next on Patterson’s Wingate Inn project list: the construction of 36 more suites, a full-service restaurant and a convention center.

COURT FILES IN STEPHEN HYATT CASE HAVE BEEN CLOSED - Court files have been closed in the case of a Sheridan man accused of murdering a teenager after commandeering her car. An attorney specializing in freedom of the press plans to fight the order, which was issued by a judge in the case of Stephen Hyatt.

BUY A LATTE AND COOKIE TOMORROW, HELP FIGHT BREAST CANCER - The Sheridan community has an opportunity tomorrow to treat themselves and help fight the battle against breast cancer. Lynnet Bede, along with her sister Renee Moshier and two cousins from Colorado are going to be taking part this June in the two-day, 40-mile Avon Breast Cancer Walk down in Colorado. Why? Lynnet’s and Renee’s third sister, Kelly, lost the battle against breast cancer about a year and a half ago, at the age of 38. Prior to Kelly’s diagnosis, Lynnet, Kelly and two friends had signed on for a 60-mile walk. Lynnet says: . So how can we help this time around? . Lynnet says that the employees at The Daily Grind, located in the Safeway parking lot, will be donating their ENTIRE day’s tips to the cause—the four team members this year must each raise 18-hundred dollars by the time they hit Denver. Let’s help them out, and enjoy a treat at the same time. That’s all day tomorrow, for Kelly’s Walking Warriors.

A U.S. SUPREME COURT DECISION MAY … OR MAY NOT AFFECT WYOMING WINE SALES - It is a decision that has caught the eye of both consumers and the wine industry: the United States Supreme Court this week ruling that state laws can’t ban out-of-state wineries from selling & shipping directly to consumers in any other state. That ruling comes as huge news in big wine-producing states like California, Oregon, Washington & New York. Wineries there see it as a boom for their business. But what about states with only a handful of vintners? Wyoming has ONE wine producer at the moment and it’s based here in Sheridan. What does the high court decision mean for Deena John of the Wyoming Wine Cellar on Main Street? . Deena John says the biggest boost in her business will come when they move to their new location in the old Moose Lodge Building on Broadway next to Sheridan Commercial. Deena says they hope to be in that location by mid-summer. In the interim, we were curious. We know about California cabernets and a nice Washington State pinot noir. What about our Wyoming wines? . And the consumer favorite at Sheridan’s own Wyoming Wine Cellar? Chokeberry.

COUNTY HISTORY BUFFS WILL TAKE A SPECIAL TOUR TOMORROW—ROOM STILL AVAILABLE FOR A SEAT ON THE BUS - Billie Little, Chair of the Sheridan County Historic Preservation Commission, says there is still room for 10 people to join them for the special tour of Sheridan County tomorrow. It’s quite a trip: . Cost for the tour is $20, and includes lunch – you can pay Carla at the Sheridan Inn between 10 and 2 today. The bus leaves the Holiday Inn tomorrow morning at 8:30.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES MET LAST NIGHT - The Northern Wyoming Community College District Board of Trustees meeting had a smaller-than-usual agenda last night—it was over in 45 minutes. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young was there and files this report: .

May 19, 2005

The "Wingate Inn" sign still needs hanging but the inside is complete.

SHERIDAN’S NEWEST HOTEL OPENS FOR BUSINESS TODAY - The city of Sheridan’s number of accommodations jumps by 66 rooms today – 66 suites actually. The Wingate Inn is the newest hotel in town: . So says proprietor Ron Patterson. “Built for Business” is their slogan and Patterson says they’ll back that up: . Future plans call for 36 additional suites, a full service restaurant and a convention center. It’s all welcome and needed say local tourism officials who report that business travel & tourism is booming in Sheridan and there’s been a shortage of available accommodations. The Wingate Inn is at the corner of 5th street & East Ridge Road just east of the interstate.

DISTRICT ONE PRESENTS PRELIMINARY BUDGET - Like you’ve been hearing about so many entities, Sheridan County School District 1 presented a preliminary budget Monday night at the District 1 board meeting. Superintendent Sue Belish tells us what all this budget included: . In addition to that, all District 1 staff members will receive a bonus in December and June, as part of the Legislative package that was approved during the past Legislative session. While this is preliminary, she’s confident that it will be accepted. And something she’s very happy about? . Belish also reports some new positions being approved: . Yesterday, District 1, along with Districts 2 and 3, hosted State Superintendent Trent Blankenship.

Dr. Trent Blankenship addressing teachers in Sheridan.

WYOMING’S SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS CONCLUDES HIS SHERIDAN COUNTY VISIT – TEACHERS & PARENTS LIKED WHAT THEY HEARD - Wyoming’s Superintendent of Schools is a busy man. Dr. Trent Blankenship has been visiting school districts for 2 months – his latest foray … here in Sheridan County. From Big Horn, to Ranchester to Dayton, Blankenship has visited schools and met with teachers and parents. That included a town hall forum at Sheridan High School last night. The venues may have varied … but Blankenship’s message did not. The Superintendent says a crucial goal for him is to give teachers’ salaries in Wyoming a boost. They’re currently 43rd in the nation. That goal struck a chord with Jeremy Smith, the business manager of Sheridan District One: . Blankenship, meanwhile, says it’s also crucial for him to get some one-on-one time with parents, students & teachers: . That’s why he’s embarked on this several week long road trip through the entire state of Wyoming: . Wyoming State Superintendent of Schools Trent Blankenship.

Aaron Duncan - First in line for Star Wars in Sheridan

STAR WARS MANIA HITS AMERICA – AND SHERIDAN IS NO EXCEPTION - Star Wars episode three debuted at midnight last night across the country … and Sheridan was no exception. Bill Campbell owns the Centennial Theatre – it didn’t surprise him to get 300 people to see the last of the Star Wars movies: . When tickets went on sale at 3:30 yesterday for the midnight show, there was already a sizeable line outside. Aaron Duncan waited for hours to be first in that line. Why? . Besides, Aaron says he had a tradition to continue: . How long will Darth & Friends be showing here in Sheridan? . We WILL have to see. George Lucas says this is his Star Wars grand finale. That’s obviously upsetting to what’s grown into TWO generations of fans. We do offer some advice in a post-Star Wars world: “May the force be with you.”

SHERIDAN PREPARES FOR ANOTHER WEEKEND OF CAPACITY CROWDS - Have you noticed lots of out of town license plates lately? Have you noticed that your favorite diner has a few more people than usual? Welcome to the summer season … says Sheridan Travel & Tourism’s Penny Becker. She says Sheridan, for the second weekend in a row, will be … “filled to the gills”: . What’s responsible for the crowds this week? Two big reasons: Another soccer tournament at the Big Horn Equestrian Center – this time it’s the State Soccer Championships. And some 700 saddle makers and leather crafters are in town for this weekend’s Rocky Mountain Leather Trade Show.

SHERIDAN FIRE & RESCUE CELEBRATES EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES WEEK IN GRAND STYLE THIS SATURDAY - This Saturday, the Sheridan Fire Station is a place to be, and Fire Marshall Brian Songer tells us why: . And what would a celebration be without a party? Beginning at 9:30 Saturday morning, Fire & Rescue personnel will host a FREE open house…that means—you’re invited: . But wait! There’s more…. And, folks will get to see a vehicle extrication drill—you might recognize it better by the term “Jaws of Life”. Several businesses have helped to support the Fire & Rescue Open House—Anne Schmidt of State Farm Insurance, The Wellness Council of Sheridan County, the Sheridan Police Department, WY-DOT, which donated the bike helmets, Safeway Foods and Pepsi—they’re providing the food and drink for the BBQ--and Newstalk 930 KROE. Songer says that the station is always open for individuals, groups or families who want to take a tour.

May 18, 2005

WEATHER SPOTTERS TRAINING IN SHERIDAN COUNTY NETS RESULTS FOR THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE - The National Weather Service, along with Sheridan County Emergency Management, held their first Weather Spotting Training course here in Sheridan and both organizations are calling it a big success. About 20 people attended Monday night’s session. Will there be more? We posed that question to Emergency Management Coordinator Dave Coleman: . Joe Lester is with the National Weather Service, and tells us why they sponsored this course: . Lester says that he estimates the weather service just in Billings uses several hundred trained weather spotters and they’re always needing more. That’s why they made the trip to Sheridan.

STAR WARS MANIA HITS AMERICA – AND SHERIDAN IS NO EXCEPTION - Star Wars episode three debuts tonight at midnight across the country … and Sheridan is no exception. Bill Campbell owns the Centennial Theatre. He says he’s expecting a crowd: . and what’s the attraction with this particular Star Wars? . Tickets went on sale for tonight’s midnight showing at 3:30 this afternoon. How long does Campbell expect Darth & Friends to be showing on his screen? . Meanwhile, the crowd is already outside the Centennial Theatre – including the first guy in line: Aaron Duncan. Why is here there today? . Besides, Aaron says he’s got a tradition to continue: .

SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OFFER A NEW TAKE ON THE COUNTY’S PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLAN - When Sheridan County Commissioners announced two weeks ago that county employees’ prescription co-pays would be doubling, there were lots of complaints – apparently enough complaints that commissioners are revisiting the issue – and are now bringing a counter offer to the table: . County Commissioner Larry Durante says he wants department heads to review the new co-pay proposal with their employees and report back to him next week. Commissioners say they were forced to raise the co-pay rates to balance the budget. Amidst the outcry though, they’re apparently now willing to revisit the issue. We’ll keep you posted.

RED GRADE ROAD SLATED TO OPEN FRIDAY - In other news from the Commissioners meeting Tuesday: It’s a sure sign of the season: Red Grade Road … one of Sheridan County’s favorite mountain roads is about to reopen: . Sheridan County Commissioner Larry Durante with the good news: Red Grade Road is opening Friday morning.

THE SHERIDAN COUNTY SHERIFF ISSUES A CONSUMER ALERT - The impending summer season brings lots of changes to Sheridan County – lots of it good … but some of it bad. The summer tourism season is also the scam season – and this year’s first phone scams have apparently already begun. Sheridan County Sheriff Dave Hofmeier says he’s just gotten word on the season’s first scamsters out there: . Hofmeier’s advice? If you get a call like the one you just heard about, show some healthy skepticism: . Write that number down and give it to authorities so that they might stop these scams. And, most importantly, don’t buy or donate via any unsolicited phone call. The sad fact – these scam artists are out there because people respond to their pitch. Bottom line, if people don’t respond to these phone solicitations, they’ll go away.

LOCAL PREPARATIONS CONTINUE FOR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND OBSERVANCES - Preparations continue for several observances for the Memorial Day Weekend here in Sheridan County. Yesterday we were telling you about efforts to spruce up the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with new flagpoles. Sheridan County is also asking for folks to remember Memorial Day in a special way: . Sheridan County Commissioner Larry Durante. The City of Sheridan, meanwhile, will observe the day with a Main Street parade from Dow to the Courthouse beginning at 10. Then a wreath-laying ceremony at the Courthouse at 10:30. At noon, the observances will move to the municipal cemetery. Canonry there will conclude the presentations. Mayor Dave Kinskey says he hopes there will be a great crowd for all these special events: . Mayor Kinskey on what will hopefully be a very special Memorial Day in Sheridan County.

WE HAVE AN UPDATE ON THE CBM ROAD USE ISSUE - Last month we ran a series on the torn up county road situation resulting from heavy truck use by the Coal Bed Methane industry. At yesterday’s Commission meeting, Commissioner Terry Cram gave News Director Ace Young an update on the response from the oil companies:. It’s great to see that the concerns of the county citizens have been heard, and that these companies are working together and with residents to find a solution to the problem.

RANCHESTER COUNCIL SCHEDULES WORK SHOP - Last night Ranchester’s Town Council agreed to schedule a workshop for next Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. at the Town Hall. Mayor Cliff Clevenger explains what the workshop will consist of: . Also during last night’s meeting Clevenger appointed former Councilwoman Bev Stahl to the Council to replace Bob Skillman, who retired due to health issues. There was also a presentation from The Sheridan County Conservation District in regards to the Tongue River Watershed.

May17, 2005

Mayor Kinskey measures for flagpole placement

MAYOR KINSKEY PLEDGES A BETTER-THAN-EVER-LOOKING SHERIDAN MUNICIPAL CEMETERY FOR THE UPCOMING MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY - Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey calls it a personal call to duty – sprucing up the city’s municipal cemetery for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend: . Kinskey met with cemetery crews and veteran service organizations Monday to review his plans – plans the mayor says, he’s taken a personal stake in: . The cemetery project is one of several special events planned for the Memorial Day weekend in Sheridan – one made special too by the return of dozens of soldiers from the war fronts in Iraq & Afganistan.

SHERIDAN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS HOST LUNCHEON WITH STATE SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION - Sheridan County School Districts 1, 2, and 3 will be hosting a noon luncheon/meeting tomorrow at the Holiday Inn with State Superintendent Trent Blankenship, who is continuing his 2005 Education Tour with a visit to Sheridan County. School District 2 Superintendent Craig Doherty tells us the purpose of the State Superintendent’s trip: . The public is welcome to attend both the meeting and the lunch; however, Doherty says you’re on your own for the lunch part. Tomorrow afternoon, Blankenship will be touring Big Horn schools, then tomorrow evening at 5:30, Sheridan High School will host Blankenship’s Town Meeting, held in the high school library. The public is also invited—indeed, encouraged—to attend that as well. To hear a preview of what Blankenship will be discussing, tune in to K-R-O-E’s Public Pulse program tomorrow morning at 9:10.

SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMUNITY HEALTH WARNS THAT WEST NILE VIRUS COULD BE RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER - Sheridan County residents can’t let their guard down against the West Nile virus this spring. That’s the warning from Judy Stallman, director of the county’s Community Health Services. Judy says mosquito season is now: . Fortunately, county residents can do something about those old tires … this weekend: . And, of course, Trees for Trash is this Saturday at the Sheridan Landfill. Tires must be off their rims and are limited Saturday to car & small pickup tires on a first come, first serve basis.

CITY OF SHERIDAN HIRES NEW POLICE CHIEF - The final regular May meeting of the Sheridan City Council met last night, and Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young phoned in this report: .

LAST WEEK’S FLOODING WAS BAD NEWS? NOT ACCORDING TO WYOMING GAME AND FISH. - Dozens of Sheridan County residents were displaced by flood waters last week – some of us still are. Meanwhile, there are some very positive aspects of last week’s record rainfall. Reservoirs are up, hillsides are green and Wyoming wildlife, we’re told, is … lovin’ it all: . Wyoming Game & Fish’s Warren Mischke says the rain and snow has been great for the wildlife … and the streams: . Mischke says Wyoming residents will be enjoying the BENEFITS of this past couple of weeks for years to come.

TWO JOB OPENINGS IN SHERIDAN COUNTY – BUT A WARNING: THE PAY IS LOUSY - Sheridan County Commissioners meet this morning at 9. New business includes several bids for new construction at the airport. The looming 2005-2006 fiscal year budget could be another discussion item. The commissioners also want it known that there are two jobs available for interested persons: . Commissioner Larry Durante with the job openings – he admits the pay is lousy. These are non-paying, volunteer positions … but if someone is interested, they should contact the Sheridan County Commissioners.

May 16, 2005

THE FIRST ANNUAL BIG HORN MOUNTAIN SPRING CUP SOCCER TOURNAMENT IS PRONOUNCED A BIG SUCCESS - Sheridan County was filled to the brim this past weekend … and the Big Horn Equestrian Center was the venue. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young was there & files this special report: . Ace talks with Scott Forister

THE WEEKEND WEATHER WAS GREAT … BUT DON’T PUT THOSE UMBRELLAS AWAY - First things first, some good news from the National Weather Service: . Meteorologist Todd Foisey of the National Weather Service says, with the expiration of the flood warnings, we can now expect some … more rain: .That’s good news. And as far as snow is concerned: . All in all, perhaps a half inch of rain beginning late today and extending through most of Tuesday.

MAYOR KINSKEY WILL PRESENT BALANCED BUDGET TO COUNCIL TONIGHT - mong the 16 items on tonight’s Sheridan City Council agenda, Mayor Dave Kinskey will make a special presentation: . Mayor Kinskey tell us there’s some good news with the dollar amount: . And what does the budget address? .To hear the meeting, tune in to AM 1410 K-W-Y-O at 7 this evening.

WATER MAIN FLUSH PROJECT GETS UNDERWAY TODAY IN SHERIDAN - A water main flushing project gets underway today in the Sheridan area. The city’s assistant public works director Mike Cole tells us why: . Areas slated for flushing include the water mains within the city limits and adjacent parts of Sheridan County served by SAWS – the Sheridan Area Water Supply. In the four months that the flushing project is expected to take, will residents notice anything unusual with their water? . The flushing, we’re told, has absolutely nothing to do with last week’s flooding and sewer problems. Cole says the decision to flush out sedimentation was made last October.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IS LOOKING FOR SHERIDAN COUNTY SEVERE WEATHER SPOTTERS - The National Weather Service is looking for a few good … severe weather spotters … but weather spotting involves some training: . Keith Meier is a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Billings. They, in cooperation with Sheridan County Disaster & Emergency Services, will conduct their first Spotter Training Session tonight. The class is at 6:30 in the public meeting room at the new Sheridan County Courthouse. Anyone interested in becoming a weather spotter or interested in severe weather is encouraged to attend. Even in an age of satellites and Doppler radar, Meier says, a trained weather spotter on the ground becomes very valuable: 05-16-16. Again: tonight’s Severe Weather Spotter Training Session begins at 6:30 in the public meeting room of the new Sheridan County Courthouse.

May 13, 2005

Billing's architect/developer Randy Hafer

DOWNTOWN SHERIDAN GETS HIGH PRAISE FROM A BILLINGS DEVELOPER - Downtown Sheridan came in for some high praise from a Billings architect/developer. Randy Hafer has been involved in nearly a dozen renovation projects in Billing’s downtown and south side areas – he’s also credited with bringing the first lofts to that city’s downtown area. He was the guest speaker at the Downtown Sheridan Association’s 2005 Annual Meeting at the Sheridan Inn last night. Hafer said he hadn’t been in Sheridan in several years and liked what he saw: . Asked if there were one piece of advice he could pass on to potential developers in Sheridan, Hafer didn’t hesitate: . Downtown Sheridan Association’s Executive Director Roger Bent took the occasion to honor several people for their contributions to the downtown community. They included a special presentation to Jane Rice for her 18 years of tireless service to the association and the Sheridan community.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAYS OUR STORM IS OVER … BUT NOT THE THREAT OF FLOODING - Residents of Sheridan County are waking up to their first day without measurable precipitation since last Saturday. That doesn’t mean the threat of flooding is over though. Indeed, those in the know have extended our flood threat: . And there’s a good reason for that extension. It has everything to do with a rapid warm up that hits us today. Meteorologist Brian Tesar gives us some numbers: . and while we concern ourselves with that possible flood threat, we can also consider the brighter side of our week of rain … and snow. That 6 day shot of storms has delivered the equivalent of 4 point zero eight inches of rain in Sheridan … and for the year to date, we’re way above normal: .

LOCAL OFFICIALS ARE BRIEFED ON POSSIBLE SNOWMELT PROBLEMS - The City of Sheridan’s Acting Police Chief Susan Guilford says Sheridan County is prepared for the weekend snow melt: . Again, that’s Sheridan’s Acting Police Chief Susan Guilford.

COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN HOLDING NATIONAL COMPETITION – DEADLINE LOOMING FOR APPLICATIONS - If you think you’ve got what it takes to become the next big Country Music Singing Act, have we got an opportunity for you… Sheridan Media’s Country station, 93.7 The Coyote will be presenting the Colgate Country Showdown on June 11th at the Best Western Sheridan Center. The Coyote’s morning show host, Kurt Layher, tells us more: .Kurt tells us what acts they’re looking for: . State winners will get a thousand bucks, and will then go on to Regionals in Elko, Nevada in October. If successful in Elko, then it’s an all-expense paid trip to the Nationals in Orlando…the winner there will win a hundred-thousand dollars. Kurt reminds hopefuls what to submit: For complete rules and information, check out colgatecountryshowdown.com.

INMATES AND WILD HORSES – OFFICIALS AT THE WYOMING HONOR FARM SAYS IT’S A GOOD MIX - The Wyoming Honor Farm near Riverton teams up with the Bureau of Land Management this weekend to hold a Wild Horse Auction. What makes this auction unique is the fact that the horses were trained by inmates. Mike Buchanan heads up the training program and he says it’s a good match: . The Inmate Wild Horse Training Program is unique in the country, we’re told. Potential bidders are able to check out the horses both today and Saturday morning. Opening bids for the horses begin at 125 dollars. Again, that’s at the Wyoming Honor Farm in Riverton.

May 12, 2005

SHERIDAN MAYOR KINSKEY GIVES US AN UP-TO-DATE STATUS REPORT ON FLOODING IN THE CITY - Today is the 6th consecutive day of precipitation in Sheridan County … and many of the flooding problems facing the area are, by now, familiar ones. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young spoke with Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey about those continuing weather-related issues: . Mayor Kinskey with Ace Young. One other concern has been the continuing sewer problems from 5th street to the Elk Pasture and the Junior High to the Country Club. This morning, we’re told the sewer situation has improved but it’s far from normal and residents in that area are still advised to avoid the unnecessary use of sewer system, as well as showers, laundry, and the like. And contrary to some rumors, all the tap water in the City of Sheridan is safe for drinking. That supply has not been compromised by sewer or flooding problems.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAYS MORE SNOW TODAY … AND THEY’VE GOT A BIG CONCERN ABOUT SNOW MELT OFF - The National Weather Service says it’s not over yet: . And while there’s relief that there’s not as much snow on the ground as predicted … there’s still considerable concern about warmer temperatures creating lots of melt off: . Brian Tesar is a meterologist for the National Weather Service up in Billings. He says they’ve spent a lion’s share of their time overnight dealing with the Sheridan area: . and for those keeping track of such things … we had another local weather milestone yesterday: .

SATURDAY’S TREES FOR TRASH IS POSTPONED BECAUSE OF WET WEATHER - The Trees for Trash people were keeping their fingers crossed … but the bad weather means a cancellation. Spokesperson Jim Schellinger says he got the word via a phone call: . Trees for Trash still on … but next Saturday instead of this Saturday.

May 11, 2005

*TODAY'S VIDEO:*
	Water Problems Around the Area	To view the video clips, make sure you have the latest version of Windows Media Player If you have trouble or questions, email the webmaster

Game & Fish's Paul Mavrakis

WYOMING GAME & FISH WITH AN IMPORTANT PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING TONIGHT IN SHERIDAN - A public information meeting to discuss proposed changes to next year’s fishing & boating regulations will be held tonight at the Sheridan Game & Fish Regional Office: . Paul Mavrakis says tonight’s input meeting will certainly include a couple of changes Game & Fish may make in the local area. One of those changes involves Muddy Guard Reservoir number one: . The second possible local change would involve the catch & release area of the Little Bighorn River upstream from the mouth of Dayton Gulch Creek: . Tonight’s public information meeting begins at 7 … at the Sheridan Game & Fish Regional Office at 700 Valley View. That’s off 5th street just east of the Rock Stop.

SHERIDAN COUNTY DEPARTMENT HEADS SPAR OVER THE PROPOSED BUDGET - Tuesday’s Sheridan County Government Budget Session with Department Heads turned heated at times. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young was there & files this report: .

THE CITY OF SHERIDAN IS BATTLING THE RAIN AND SNOW ON VARIOUS FRONTS - 5 consecutive days of precipitation are taking their toll on the City of Sheridan. Assistant Public Works Director John Nowak has toured much of the city: . There is some street flooding around Leopard Street. Kendrick Park has plenty of water in it. And Main Street, north of downtown, near the railroad tracks, once again has several inches of water in places. We have been in touch with Sheridan’s acting Police Chief Susan Guilford. What is her number one suggestion for residents? . Of course, we will keep you up to date.

SHERIDAN POLICE DEPARTMENT AND SHERIFF’S OFFICE REPORT AREAS TO AVOID DRIVING - The City of Sheridan continues to get the brunt of two strong storms. Today is the 5th consecutive day of precipitation. Creeks are running higher than ever, and there is a flood warning for Sheridan County, as well as Southern Rosebud, Southern Big Horn, and Powder River Counties until noon Friday. Acting Police Chief Susan Guilford says city crews are trying their best to stay on top of things: . The Sheridan County Sheriff’s office reports that the 700-block of Long Drive, on the west side near the hospital, has up to 4 feet of water over the road. Officer John King from the Sheridan Police Department tells us that officers were out all night checking the status of streets, and that the area near The Golden Steer on North Main is down to one lane only for driving. Mavrakis pond is shut down, as the small stream that feeds the pond has flooded the parking lot. And Officers Jim Arzy and Travis Harnish say that a resident on Shiller Street, in the area near Leopard Street, indicated that the creek will be breaking the banks by end of day. Acting Police Chief Guilford’s number one advice: stay close to the radio and if you see any emergency problem in your area, give 911 a call. Save that call, though, for true emergencies. Clarification on County Road 161 closure It’s a cattle underpass on the east side of Prusak’s place, 12 miles west of Ulm near Coal Creek. Prusaks and everyone on the Wyarno side of Dutch Creek can access the road, but folks EAST of that cattle underpass cannot.County Road 66, the Woodland Road is closed. Cottonwood Drive in Woodland Hill Subdivision is having flood issues and will be closed. And the duck pond near the bottom of KROE Lane is flooding—once again, motorists should NOT drive through areas of deep water. Other weather-related closures and cancellations: We received word from Bruce Yates that the SAWS Board meeting originally scheduled for this evening at 5:30 has been cancelled. SHS Booster Club meeting scheduled for tonight has been postponed to next Wednesday for the same time and same place. SHS Track Workers meeting scheduled for tonight moved to tomorrow night at 6 at Sheridan High School.

SHERIDAN POLICE DEPARTMENT AND SHERIFF’S OFFICE REPORT AREAS TO AVOID DRIVING - The City of Sheridan continues to get the brunt of two strong storms. Today is the 5th consecutive day of precipitation. Creeks are running higher than ever, and there is a flood warning for Sheridan County, as well as Southern Rosebud, Southern Big Horn, and Powder River Counties until noon Friday. Acting Police Chief Susan Guilford says city crews are trying their best to stay on top of things: . The Sheridan County Sheriff’s office reports that the 700-block of Long Drive, on the west side near the hospital, has up to 4 feet of water over the road. Officer John King from the Sheridan Police Department tells us that officers were out all night checking the status of streets, and that the area near The Golden Steer on North Main is down to one lane only for driving. Mavrakis pond is shut down, as the small stream that feeds the pond has flooded the parking lot. And Officers Jim Arzy and Travis Harnish say that a resident on Shiller Street, in the area near Leopard Street, indicated that the creek will be breaking the banks by end of day. Acting Police Chief Guilford’s number one advice: stay close to the radio and if you see any emergency problem in your area, give 911 a call. Save that call, though, for true emergencies. Sandy from Sheridan County Engineering just reported that their Road and Bridge Foreman has closed County Road 161, Dutch Creek Road at the East end because of problems with the bridge.

May 10, 2005

*TODAY'S VIDEO:*
	Drainage flow on KROE Lane just east of Sheridan Avenue	To view the video clips, make sure you have the latest version of Windows Media Player If you have trouble or questions, email the webmaster
	Little Goose Creek at Heald Street Bridge near Carlin Street
	Club Boxing highlights
	Special Olympics Torch Run

SHERIDAN AREA PREPARES FOR MORE RAIN … AND SNOW … AND POSSIBLE FLOODING - After being belted by over 2 & ½ inches of rain this past weekend, the National Weather Service is warning Sheridan-area residents to be prepared for an encore: . Tom Foisy is a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Billings. Similar in intensity, he says, but different in another aspect: . Should it get cold enough soon enough, Sheridan could get a few inches of snow … the mountains a foot or more. The City of Sheridan, meanwhile, is preparing for a worst case scenario. Public Works Director Jackie Flowers says the city is geared up for flooding – should there be a problem: . Sheridan’s Police Dispatch Center would handle the initial call. As to what would happen next? . Among the typical problem areas during heavy rains: Main Street north of downtown near the railroad tracks, Leopard Street and Kendrick Park.
Little Goose Creek at Heald Street Bridge near Carlin Street
Drainage flow on KROE Lane just east of Sheridan Avenue

Mayor Dave Kinskey delivering his State of the City Address

SHERIDAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HEARS MAYOR KINSKEY’S “STATE OF THE CITY” ADDRESS - Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey painted a less than perfect picture of the city’s financial status in his “State of the City” address he gave yesterday to the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young was there and files this report: .

LAW ENFORCEMENT’S “FLAME OF HOPE”, AFTER STARTING IN GILLETTE, IS NOW IN ROUTE TO LARAMIE - It’s called the “Flame of Hope” – it’s law enforcements’ effort to raise funds for Wyoming’s Special Olympics. This year’s torch run got underway at 6am yesterday in Gillette. The Sheridan contingent began their torch run 2 hours later. Police departments from both cities met in Buffalo at midday. Officer Sandy Litle helped organize the Sheridan effort: . Today that torch heads from Casper south to an eventual arrival at this year’s Wyoming Special Olympic Summer Games in Laramie on Thursday. We have streaming video of the Sheridan torch run –

NATIONAL TOURISM WEEK THIS WEEK – WEAR RED - Everyone is invited to join in with the tourism industry nation-wide, by wearing red for “See America Week”. The campaign began yesterday and runs through May 15th. Our local tourism group, Sheridan Travel and Tourism, or STT, has announced an increase in this year’s grant programs to $36,000. They say that lodging tax dollars are at work through the Matching Funds and Sporting Events grant programs in support and promotion of the various tourism events that take place throughout the year. Sheridan Travel & Tourism Board meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at 11 a.m. at City Hall, and the public is welcome to attend. For information on all that is happening this year in Sheridan County, check out STT’s website at www. sheridanwyoming.org.

WYOMING HIGHWAY PATROL BEGINS SUMMER SAFE-DRIVING CAMPAIGN - The increase in summertime traffic will soon be upon us. Within the next several weeks Wyoming Highway Patrol Troopers will once again begin high visible traffic enforcement and saturation patrols on the State’s highways. Troopers will concentrate their efforts in speed enforcement, impaired driving enforcement and occupant restraint use. During the summer, fall and into the winter the Wyoming Highway Patrol will work in partnerships with organizations such as the Wyoming Chapter of MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving). Troopers will participate in national mobilizations such as "You Drink. You Drive. You Lose", CARE (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) and "All American Buckle-Up Week". Wyoming Highway Patrol figures from 2004 indicate 32 percent of all highways deaths were alcohol or drug related. In addition, of those killed in impaired driving crashes, almost 81 percent were not properly restrained.

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS GEAR UP TO ACKNOWLEDGE BUDGET - County Commissioners will meet with County department heads at noon today in the Commission Board Room of the County Courthouse. Discussion will be on the budget requested by the departments, which will be acknowledged at a special meeting on May 12; and a discussion on the County's health care benefit package.

May 9, 2005

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