Sheridan Media News

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

January 31, 2006

LEGISLATIVE BUDGET SESSION BEGINS FEBRUARY 13TH –The Wyoming State Legislature is gearing up to convene for its Budget Session next week. Representative Rosie Berger and Senator Bruce Burns visited Sheridan Media studios to talk about some of the issues the legislators will address February 13th through March 10th. One such issue is the CBM tax money for the counties. Representative Berger weighs in with her take on the subject: . Senator Burns indicates that an issue that keeps growing is gambling in the state: . Both Senator Burns and Representative Berger will be up for re-election this fall. Will they be running again? . Rest assured that when this legislative session is over, we will let you know what each of their decisions will be. Meantime, keep tuning in, as we will have coverage from Cheyenne during this Budget Session.

WHITNEY BENEFITS OPENS A MYSTERY TRUNK – WE HAVE THE EXCLUSIVE REPORT - For the second time in as many days, Sheridan’s history has made its way to the present. This past weekend it was its number one town in the west designation, and this morning, it’s an historic trunk making the news. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the exclusive report: .

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN BILLINGS PREDICTS A BUSY WEEK OF STORMS, BUT WILL IT AFFECT THE SHERIDAN AREA? - As most of Sheridan County enjoyed temperatures in the low 50’s Monday, the western part of the Cowboy state felt the wrath of old man winter as heavy snow and high winds blanketed the region. And that’s just the beginning as forecasters are predicting a busy week for storms throughout much of the state. Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Billings Todd Foisy tells us what’s in store for our area: . Foisy says we can expect a light dusting here and there for the week, but we shouldn’t be seeing much, if any accumulation over the next seven days.

YELLOWSTONE CLOSES BISON CAPTURE FACILITY AFTER CURTAILING OVER SEVEN HUNDRED WANDERING BISON - In order to stop bison from wandering out of the park, Yellowstone officials put up a corral-like capture facility near the park’s northern border. With the problem under control officials have agreed to close the facility. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has more: .

FREUDENTHAL BACK AFTER TRIP TO IRAQ, AFGHANISTAN, PAKISTAN, NATO - Governor Freudenthal returned home Sunday night after he and four other governors took a weeklong trip to Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Belgium. Their final stop was in Brussels, Belgium, where they met with officials from NATO and the European Union. Just hours after his return home, Freudenthal joined 26 members of the 187th Airlift Squadron and the 153rd Maintenance Squadron for a deployment ceremony

January 30, 2006

SHERIDAN COLLEGE S.I.F.E PROGRAM TO PROVIDE TAX RETURN ASSISTANCE - The acronym stands for Students in Free Enterprise – S.I.F.E. – a group of seven Sheridan College students who will be reaching out this tax season to help low income individuals prepare and file their 2005 tax returns. Tracy Dearinger is the team’s advisor, and she tells us about this volunteer effort: . Tracy says that the team members have all been trained and certified by the I.R.S. to prepare uncomplicated tax returns: . Qualified people need to arrive with the appropriate forms and W-2’s, their and any dependant’s Social Security cards and so forth. The team will then determine if they can, indeed, offer their assistance. So who qualifies to receive the team’s aid? . People will be helped on a first come first served basis. For a complete schedule of times and the types of I.R.S. forms they can look over, check out the link to the S.I.F.E. at www.sheridan.edu or call Tracy Dearinger’s at SCC, 674-6446, ext. 3202.

THOUSANDS TURN OUT THIS WEEKEND TO SALUTE THE NUMBER ONE TOWN IN THE WEST - An estimated 2-thousand cheering residents turned out in force at the historic Sheridan Inn Saturday to celebrate Sheridan’s status as the #1 Town in the West. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young was on hand and has the story: . For highlihts from the celebration click on the video icon

BOB BOZE BELL FROM TRUE WEST MAGAZINE GIVES US THE SECRET ON HOW SHERIDAN RECEIVED THE AWARD AS #1 WESTERN TOWN IN AMERICA - Also at this weekend’s big celebration was Sheridan Media’s Dave Wooten, who caught up afterwards with Bob Boze Bell .

AMONG DIGNITARIES AT NUMBER ONE WESTERN TOWN CELEBRATION – STATE TRAVEL AND TOURISM DIRECTOR DIANE SHOBER - Amidst the celebration and festivities at the Historic Sheridan Inn on Saturday, a very important aspect of Sheridan’s designation as the Number 1 Western Town is the impact this will make on the tourism industry, not only for our town, but for the entire state. Diane Shober is the State Director of Travel and Tourism in Cheyenne: . Nearly 2-thousand people turned out for the award ceremony.

MORE MILD TEMPS IN STORE THIS WEEK, EVEN AS A SMALL SYSTEM MOVES THROUGH THE AREA - We’re two days away from a new month already, and it’s time to check with our trusty contacts at the National Weather Service in Billings to find out what’s in store for us with February on the horizon: . That’s meteorologist Joe Lester, who says the light precipitation may be noticeable tonight through Wednesday night, but nothing of much significance, except maybe in the mountains. Joe indicated above normal temps – what’s normal for Sheridan this time of year? . And it is pretty breezy this morning – what’s the wind situation look like for the coming days? . Bottom line – expect more of the same of this mild winter we’ve been experiencing since before Christmas. Whatever happened to four seasons in Wyoming?

January 28, 2006

THE WHOLE TOWN OF SHERIDAN IS INVITED TO A SPECIAL CELEBRATION AT THE SHERIDAN INN TODAY - The news came at the end of summer – Sheridan was designated the Number 1 Western Town by the editors of True West Magazine, and this afternoon, we will all get together at the Historic Sheridan Inn to celebrate in grand style. Sheridan Travel and Tourism Director Penny Becker: So polish up your cowboy boots, get out your shiniest silver buckles and biggest turquoise, don your cowboy hats, and head on down to the Sheridan Inn. The doings get underway at 1:45 and conclude around 4.

January 27, 2006

SHERIDAN JUNIOR HIGH HOSTS ANNUAL SCIENCE FAIR - Over one hundred entries are displayed in the old gym at the Sheridan Jr. High School, revealing the scientific minds of sixth, seventh and eighth graders. The occasion? The annual Science Fair. Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson has the story: .

DECEMBER UNEMPLOYMENT STATISTICS ARE IN - If you’re someone looking for work, the statistics are a good thing; if you’re an employer, the statistics are not good. We’re talking about December’s unemployment rate, and Barbara Hall, the Regional Manager for the Department of Workforce Services in Sheridan gives us the numbers: . Barbara says that they are not able to fill the jobs they have available right now. That’s in Sheridan – how does Johnson County look? At the beginning of this week, Barbara says they had 285 positions ranging from labor to professional jobs available, so if you’re looking for a job, she says there are a number of ways to contact them: . The Workforce Services office is located in the old Reilly Motors building on the corner of Gould and West Works. Their website includes local job openings, as well as national openings for those who may be relocating elsewhere. Their website is http://onestop.state.wy.us

DAYTON’S VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT RECEIVES FEDERAL GRANT TO COMBAT FIRES - The Dayton Fire Department is nearly 70-thousand dollars richer, thanks to a grant awarded to them from the “Assistance to Firefighters” Grant Program. The money will be used to purchase new turn-out gear and new wildland firefighting gear. Dayton’s new Fire Chief, Craig Reichert comments on the grant: . Receiving the money did not happen overnight, and Chief Reichert is quick give credit where it’s due: . The Office for Domestic Preparedness, through the Department of Homeland Security, administers the “Assistance to Firefighters” Grant Program.

SHERIDAN GETS READY TO CELEBRATE ITS “NUMBER ONE WESTERN TOWN IN AMERICA STATUS” – THE BIG CELEBRATION IS JUST A DAY AWAY - It’s something that local residents have known for years … but tomorrow, it’s a distinction we get to share with America. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: .

17 MILLION DOLLARS WORTH OF IMPACT FUNDS TAKEN FROM SHERIDAN COUNTY. WHY DID IT HAPPEN? WE’LL TELL YOU WHAT SOME IN CHEYENNE ARE SAYING. - And why did the Joint Appropriations Committee do what it did? Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has more on this major story: .

JOINT APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE SAYS NO TO GOVERNOR’S REQUEST FOR ONE-HUNDRED MILLION DOLLARS FOR CBM IMPACTED COUNTIES - The news from Cheyenne does not bode well for among others Sheridan County. As the Joint Appropriations Committee has denied Governor Freudenthal’s budget request to set aside one hundred million dollars for eight C-B-M impacted counties. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the Story: .

January 26, 2006

ANNUAL GROUNDHOG DAY JOB SHADOWING / REAL LIFE FAIR JUST AROUND THE CORNER - Groundhog Day is next week, and we will see some human shadows creeping through the community – high school students job shadowing business people to learn about potential careers. Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson has the story: . For more information call the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce at 672-2485.

“SLEEPLESS IN SHERIDAN” – PART FOUR … IT’S OUR “RESULTS” REPORT IN THIS SPECIAL SERIES - Our special series is called “Sleepless in Sheridan” – and Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the final report in this 4-part report: . Need more information about insomnia & sleep apnea? Check out: http://www.sleepfoundation.org.

A SHERIDAN COUNTY OFFICIAL ANNOUNCES HE’S RUNNING FOR RE-ELECTION - It’s official. A Sheridan County Law Enforcement official announces he’s running for re-election. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: .

WYSTAR WILL HAVE A MEETING TONIGHT THAT WILL FOCUS ON DRUG ENDANGERED CHILDREN - Methamphetamine use is a growing problem nationwide and it’s a problem that is a reality right here in Sheridan County. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the story: .

SHERIDAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING HELD WEDNESDAY NIGHT - Sheridan Memorial Hospital Board had their trustee meeting Wednesday night. Sheridan Media’s Betsy Love was at the meeting and has the report: .

GOVERNOR FREUDENTHAL SPEAKS TO SHERIDAN MEDIA’S GENERAL MANAGER FROM THE MIDDLE EAST - Governor Dave Freudenthal has been in Iraq and Kuwait this week to visit Wyoming troops with three other state governors. In an exclusive phone interview, Sheridan Media owner Kim Love spoke to him about the visit: . As the governor indicated, for security reasons, the exact whereabouts and U.S. return for the four governors is unknown.

SHERIDAN COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY LEARNS ABOUT POLO’S HISTORY IN THE AREA AT THE SOCIETY’S MONTHLY MEETING TONIGHT - The Big Horn Equestrian Center was built a little over 25 years ago to host weekly polo matches each summer, but the game of polo has been integral to the Big Horn community for well over a hundred years. Mike Morton will be the featured speaker this evening to share Polo’s rich – no pun intended – history in the County, as he is the featured speaker at the monthly Historical Society’s dinner. . That’s Historical Society member Mary Ellen McWilliams, who tells us tonight’s event takes place at the Holiday Inn. Dinner begins at 6 pm and costs 13 dollars, which includes tax and tip. The program alone, however, is free, and she asks that you be in attendance by 6:45.

January 25, 2006

STATE LAND AND INVESTMENT BOARD APPROVES SIZEABLE GRANT TO IMPROVE THE SHERIDAN WATER TREATMENT PLANT - Good news for the City of Sheridan – monies requested from the State Land and Investment Board, or SLIB, have been approved for Sheridan to improve the Sheridan Water Treatment Plant. Mayor Dave Kinskey tells us: . That 1-point-2 million is half of what is needed to fund the project, but the Mayor indicates that the other half is available: . He says that the City will have enough money to finish the Water Treatment Plant project, but monies needed for other projects will be sorely missing if the Optional 1-Cent Sales tax is not passed this Fall. Mayor Kinskey explains why the water treatment plant needs a major overhaul: . Great news for water treatment, but what about sewage treatment? We’ll have to wait a bit for that, Kinskey says: . As he indicated, the water treatment plant improvements are needed to comply with anticipated changes in federal drinking water laws, and to accommodate future expansion of the plant. In addition, the disinfection system at the treatment plant will be completely replaced as part of this project.

WE’LL HEAR FROM SENATOR MIKE ENZI HIS THOUGHTS ON SUPREME COURT JUSTICE NOMINEE SAMUEL ALITO - As the grueling Confirmation Hearings came to a close, U.S. Senator Mike Enzi tells us he looks forward to voting on Judge Samuel Alito, President Bush’s nomination to the United States Supreme Court: . Senator Enzi commented on Judge Alito’s character: . In a written statement, Senator Craig Thomas indicated that he met personally with Judge Alito and is confident he will do an excellent job “handling his Constitutional responsibility”. Senator Enzi echoed that sentiment: . Senator Thomas, too, was impressed by how the judge handled his confirmation hearing, saying that, quote “after more than 700 questions over an 18-hour period, Alito cut through any partisan stunts to prove his fitness to serve the nation’s highest court.” The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 10 to 8 in favor of Alito yesterday. The full Senate is expected to vote on Judge Alito this week.

FOUR U.S. GOVERNORS, INCLUDING WYOMING GOVERNOR DAVE FREUDENTHAL, VISIT IRAQ - Surprising U.S. Troops, Governor Dave Freudenthal visited Iraq this week, joining Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle, Texas Governor Rick Perry and Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee. Freudenthal told Fox News that the United States faces challenges in building Iraq's infrastructure from the bottom up and gathering intelligence to dismantle the insurgency. But he said that progress is being made. Wyoming has ten Air National Guard and ten Army National Guard troops in Iraq right now. Another 154 Wyoming Guard members are in Fort Lewis, Washington, in preparation for deployment to Iraq. There are a total of 272 Wyoming Guard members who are currently deployed overseas, including in Afghanistan and Kuwait. Freudenthal's first stop in the Middle East was to a base in Kuwait, where he had dinner with a group of Wyoming troops. For security reasons, the four governors’ whereabouts in Iraq on any given day are unknown, as is the date of their return to the United States.

OVERVIEW OF SHERIDAN INN’S RESTORATION PROJECT IS DISCUSSED AT A SPECIAL MEETING - A public meeting detailing the Sheridan Inn restoration project was held Tuesday night. Sheridan Media’s Betsy Love was there and has the report: .

“SLEEPLESS IN SHERIDAN” GETS THE TRUE TEST WHEN SHERIDAN MEDIA’S ACE YOUNG ATTEMPTS TO “CATCH SOME Z’S” IN THE SLEEP LAB - We continue our special series of perhaps the biggest ignored medical malady in modern times – insomnia. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young finds out first hand … in part 3 of “Sleepless in Sheridan”: .

January 24, 2005

SHERIDAN JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL SCOTT STULTS NAMED WYOMING PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR - Walking into Sheridan Jr. High Principal Scott Stults’ office, one might need a shovel right now, as every square inch of floor space is covered in blue and gold balloons. In some areas of the room, the balloons are knee-deep. And in the midst of them is the school’s grinning leader. Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson with the story: .

IT’S A MEDICAL MALADY OF EPIDEMIC PROPORTIONS. WE PRESENT PART TWO OF “SLEEPLESS IN SHERIDAN” - Yesterday we told you about a medical problem affecting up to a hundred million Americans. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has part 2 of “Sleepless in Sheridan”: .

THE SHERIDAN COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY UPDATES THEIR AGENDA - Work, both inside & out, continues at the new site of the Sheridan County Historical Museum on 5th Street. Fundraiser Mary Ellen McWilliams says they remain on target for an opening on or about June first. And the Historical Society’s fundraising efforts continue too: . The Kiewit money is the 200-thousand dollar-matching grant from the Peter Kiewit Foundation. Meanwhile, new to the museum is Nathan Doerr. Doerr recently completed a Masters Degree in Museum Interpretation from Prescott College in Arizona. He’s familiar with historic Sheridan – before college, he was a volunteer at the Sheridan Inn. His biggest challenge in his new position as Curator of Museum interpretation? . And will Nathan’s educational work at the museum also extend out to the schools? . And what does Doerr like best about being back in Sheridan? . Nathan Doerr … the brand new curator of Education & Interpretation at the Sheridan County Historical Museum.

THE SHERIDAN HERITAGE CENTER HOSTS A PUBLIC MEETING TONIGHT ON RESTORATION OF THE SHERIDAN INN - Restoration of the historic Sheridan Inn continues to be a major concern in the community. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the update: .

RESIDENTS OF SHERIDAN’S SUMNER STREET NEIGHBORHOOD PREPARE FOR THE BIG “TEAR UP” - For residents of Sheridan’s Sumner Street, it’s a case of “there goes the neighborhood.” -- In this particular case, though, it’s a good thing. Sumner Street and a handful of side streets are slated for an extended reconstruction project: . Public Works Director Jackie Flowers says there WILL be an impact to residents and, for that reason, there’s an open house on the subject tonight at 7 at Coffeen Elementary School: . Flowers says the Sumner Street Project will be bid out in late February with construction expected to be completed in the fall of this year.

CITY PLANNING COMMISSION GIVES THE THUMBS UP TO HOME DEPOT AND PROPOSED SIGN ORDINANCE - Sheridan’s Planning Commission discussed a proposed sign ordinance as well as giving the go ahead to Home Depot at their meeting last night. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter was there and has the details: .

January 23, 2006

IT’S JANUARY, BUT WHERE’S THE SNOW? - The calendar says January, but looking out the window you’re probably saying to yourself: “Where’s all the snow?” Sheridan Media’s Dave Wooten went to the National Weather Service to get an answer: .

SLEEPLESS IN SHERIDAN? THERE’S HELP FOR THOSE “COUNTING SHEEP AT NIGHT” –There’s relief for those who stay up at night “counting sheep” – and the relief is closer than you might think. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: .

A U.S. SENATE CANDIDATE DOES SOME WEEKEND BARNSTORMING IN SHERIDAN - It may seem early for campaigning but, in fact, the “political season” has already begun – at least when it comes to the senatorial campaign. A Wyoming Democrat has thrown his hat in the ring, and Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the story: .

THE MISS WYOMING SCHOLARSHIP BOARD ENJOYED SUCCESSFUL WEEK IN LAS VEGAS – LOOKS FORWARD TO PREPARATIONS FOR MISS WYOMING PAGEANT IN JUNE - The weeklong events in Las Vegas for the 2006 Miss America pageant have come to an end, but the work continues in each state as those contestants who did not take away the coveted Miss America crown – this year going to Miss Oklahoma’s Jennifer Berry – return to their states to work with communities and students about their various platforms. For the Miss Wyoming Scholarship Program, headquartered here in Sheridan, plans will now be under way to schedule visits and programs for Miss Wyoming, Heather Jackelin, while at the same time gearing up for the next Miss Wyoming pageant, this year planned for early June. Co-Executive Director, Arlis Wozniak, tells us that the board members who went to Vegas last week learned a lot about running the program: . Indeed, the big pageant states would seem to be in the South, as eight of the ten semi-finalists Saturday night were from that region.

2005 REPORTS A GOOD YEAR FOR WYOMING’S COAL INDUSTRY - The word is very good – adjectives like “banner” to describe 2005 being the 14th consecutive year of increasing production for Wyoming's vast coal industry. In Campbell County, where most of Wyoming's active coalmines are located, production increased by nine (M) million tons to more than 390 (M) million tons. Meanwhile, spot prices nearly tripled to more than 18-dollars per ton. It gets better, too -- industry officials say the best is yet to come. They point to increasing energy use and growing demand for Wyoming's cleaner, low-sulfur coal. In other coal industry news -- two rail projects are expected to boost coal shipments out of the Powder River Basin by the end of this summer. One project is a 19-mile track expansion from Reno Junction to Shawnee Junction in southern Campbell County. The other project is a staging yard west of Rozet. The projects have a combined price tag of more than 70 (M) million dollars.

January 21, 2006

SHERIDAN, BIG HORN AND TONGUE RIVER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS COMPETE IN ACADEMIC CHALLENGE TODAY - It’s called the Academic Challenge and it’s today beginning at noon at Sheridan College. Sheridan Media’s Steve Sisson has the details:

MISS AMERICA PAGEANT AIRS TONIGHT - The Miss America Pageant is tonight -- tune in to a new network, C-M-T for the two-hour show. Arlis Wozniak serves as Co-Executive Director of the Miss Wyoming board, headquartered here in Sheridan as of last March. While the contestants have been competing in preliminary contests all week, state boards have been meeting: So as the clock ticks down to the pageant’s beginning, what will our Miss Wyoming experience today? Which means it’s live back east at 7 pm, with a time delay for the central and western states. Check local or satellite listings for the live broadcast on C-M-T. And something unusual…if you miss the pageant tonight, C-M-T will re-broadcast it on Sunday evening.

January 20, 2006

AREA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS COMPETE TOMORROW IN THE 10TH ANNUAL SHERIDAN COLLEGE ACADEMIC CHALLENGE - It’s called the Academic Challenge and it’s tomorrow at Sheridan College. Sheridan Media’s Steve Sisson has the details: .

SHERIDAN DOWNTOWN RETAIL COMMITTEE HEARS UPDATE ON SIGNAGE ORDINANCE ISSUE - It’s an issue that has been controversial for a number of years, and one that the Sheridan City Planning Department has been working to improve since last February. We’re talking about retail and business signage, and City Planner Robert Briggs hints at why the issue has been rather contentious: . Briggs gave a special presentation this week at the Historic Downtown Retailers Committee meeting, where he went through a draft of ideas highlighting proposed regulations, allowances, limitations, incentives and special considerations. The process to come up with revisions has not been so easy, because there are definite feelings about each side of the issue: . Will existing businesses have to change their signs when the revised ordinance is adopted? . Robert says that the planning commission will meet and discuss the sign ordinance issue on February 23rd – that meeting is open to the public, as will be an open house, the date of which is yet to be determined. Briggs encourages public input, so that the ordinance can be finalized and presented to the City Council.

OLIVER’S RESTAURANT IS THE SITE FOR THE LATEST DOWNTOWN SHERIDAN SCULPTURE - Downtown Sheridan looks a little different these days. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the story: . Fachon Wilson talks about the new sculpture

SHERIDAN SHERIFF HOFMEIER TALKS ABOUT STANDBY PAY - It’s called “standby” or “on call” pay – on Tuesday, the Sheridan County Commissioners addressed the issue … and today, Sheriff Dave Hofmeier weighs in on the matter. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the story: .

SPEED & TRAFFIC STUDY RESULTS ARE RELEASED FOR SHERIDAN’S SPARROW HAWK ROAD - The area is the proposed home for the Cloud Peak subdivision -- 400 single-family homes and almost 300 multi-family homes and a new elementary school. We’re talking about Sheridan’s Sparrow Hawk Summit neighborhood and, specifically, Sparrow Hawk Road, which is the major corridor through that area. Mayor Dave Kinskey expresses his concerns: . Kinskey says that speed study has now been released: . … along with some double yellow lines and, at one location, a no parking zone. . Again, the speed study in the Sparrow Hawk Summit neighborhood will be discussed at the City Council’s regular February 6th meeting. City Hall informs us only one reading on proposed traffic changes is necessary so it’s possible the aforementioned changes could be adopted by council then and there.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE BOARD APPROVES BUDGET REVISION AND HEARS GOOD NEWS DURING THE FINAL AUDIT REPORT - The Sheridan College Board of Trustee’s held their first meeting of the year last night. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter was there and has the details: .

January 19, 2006

FOUR LOCAL ATHLETES ARE SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS YEAR’S NATIONAL SPECIAL OLYMPICS - This year’s Special Olympics will be held in Ames, Iowa and four local athletes have been selected to compete in these games. Betsy Love has more: .

WYOMING’S AIR NATIONAL GUARD ASSISTS NASA WITH THE STARDUST COMET MISSION – WE’VE GOT THE FOLLOW-UP - NASA scientists have had less than 24 hours to check out the tiny capsule of comet dust from the Stardust Space Mission. And the Wyoming Air National Guard has had less than 24 hours to revel in their key role in the safe retrieval of that precious cargo. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has a special follow-up report: .

VOTERS IN HARDIN MAY BE DECIDING IF THEY WANT A POLICE DEPARTMENT - This November, voters in Montana’s Big Horn County could decide to create a new police department in Hardin. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the story: .

SHERIDAN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES HAD THEIR FIRST MEETING OF THE YEAR. - Some more pleasing news about Sheridan is heard at the Sheridan County Public Library Board of Trustees meeting. Sheridan Media’s Betsy Love was at the meeting and has the story: .

DAYTON’S COUNCIL APPROVES NEW FIRE CHIEF AND SETS DATE FOR NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND - Dayton’s Town Council had several important issues on their agenda last night. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter was there and gives us the details: .

MISS AMERICA PAGEANT PRELIMINARY ACTIVITIES UNDERWAY – SHERIDAN’S STATE BOARD REPRESENTATIVE GIVES US AN UPDATE - The 61st annual Miss America Pageant will air on a new network from a new city in a new month. Country Music Television, or C-M-T, will broadcast the event from Los Vegas this Saturday, January 21st, and several of the Miss Wyoming Board, which is now headquartered in Sheridan, are in Vegas to take in the weeklong series of activities, meetings, and preliminary competitions. Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson has more:

January 18, 2006

SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TALK ABOUT THE JAIL, EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION … AND FLUSHING TOILETS AT THE AIRPORT - Sheridan County Commissioners talked “toilets”, “employee compensation” & yet another hike in jail costs at Tuesday’s meeting. News Director Ace Young was in attendance and has the details: .

CENTER FOR A VITAL COMMUNITY HAS BUSY SPRING PLANNED - You’ve been hearing so much lately about the Center for a Vital Community’s upcoming CiViC Project in May, that you may not be aware that the CVC does have other projects on deck for the springtime season. Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson tells us what else is on tap for the organization in the coming months: .

ANOTHER AVALANCHE SPELLS TRAGEDY – THIS TIME IN MONTANA - Last week we ran a special series on surviving an avalanche. Today we report on the latest avalanche incident – this one near Kalispell, Montana. Flathead County Undersheriff Mike Meehan tells us what happened: . Meehan says a wall of snow, water, ice and broken trees quickly overran three people. Two people perished … a third survived: . Again, all of that just outside Kalispell. And while a 30-acre lake actually flipping upside down is highly unusual, experts tell us we can expect many more avalanche incidents between now and springtime.

GOOD NEWS THIS MORNING FROM BYRON, WYOMING: OPEN SINCE 1935 BUT SLATED TO CLOSE … THE COZZENS CASH STORE WILL STAY OPEN AFTER ALL. - There is good news in Byron, Wyoming. The Cozzens Cash Store has been in business since 1935 … but was slated to close. There apparently, though, has been a reprieve for Cozzens. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: .

RANCHESTER COUNCIL TAKES A LOOK AT OUTDATED ORDINANCES - Cleaning up outdated ordinances is the current task being tackled by Ranchester’s Town Council. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the details: .

RESULTS OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING STUDY REVEALED AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE TUESDAY NIGHT - During the second of two Needs Assessment Study meetings on affordable housing, experts revealed the study’s findings: provide more upper-income rental housing to address restricted-income housing needs. Sheridan Media’s Betsy Love explains: .

January 17, 2006

JUST IN: SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TALK ABOUT THE JAIL, EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION … AND FLUSHING TOILETS AT THE AIRPORT - Today Sheridan County Commissioners talked “toilets”, “employee compensation” & yet another hike in jail costs. News Director Ace Young was in attendance and has the details: .

BIG BROTHERS / BIG SISTERS HONORS VOLUNTEERS TOMORROW NIGHT - January is National Mentor Month, and our local chapter of Big Brothers/Big Sisters is celebrating with a special “Volunteer Appreciation” dinner tomorrow evening. Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson with more: .

IT’S TIME ONCE AGAIN FOR THE KIWANIS STARS OF TOMORROW – AUDITIONS HELD THIS WEEK - An annual Sheridan tradition is on the horizon, and the call is out for county youth to audition for the Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow competition, held this year on Friday, February 3rd at the WYO Theater. Kiwanian Judy Taylor tells us this is the 45th year for the show. Just what is the purpose of the event? . Taylor has been a Kiwanis member for fifteen years, ten of which she has served as host for the competition. She gives us the particulars for the audition process, should your child be interested in trying out: . Interested participants can pick up entry forms at their school, from their music or dance teacher, or at the WYO the evening of their audition. So what benefit will go to the winners? Trophies are awarded to the top three in each division, and in addition, scholarships of 2 hundred, 1 hundred and 50 dollars are awarded to the top three in Division 4. The top two in Division 4 can also compete in a combined Division show, and the top two of the Division show will compete in the Rocky Mountain District show. From there, the sky’s the limit, as many who start out competing in Stars of Tomorrow go on to become real stars of today. Again, Sheridan’s Stars of Tomorrow competition will be held on Friday, February 3rd at 7 at the WYO, and tickets are available at the WYO Box Office.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING NEEDS ARE AIRED DURING A SPECIAL CITY OF SHERIDAN PUBLIC MEETING - The issue of affordable public housing was the topic at a special City of Sheridan community meeting Monday. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the story: .

SHERIDAN POLICE TARGET ABANDONED VEHICLES - Cleaning Up Sheridan. There was a work session on the subject this past summer and now, there’s some graphic proof that it’s starting to happen. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: .

SCHOOL DISTRICT TWO RECEIVES A-PLUS ON AUDIT REPORT - School District #2 Receives an “A-Plus” on an Audit report. Sheridan Media’s Betsy Love was at the meeting and has the story: .

WYOMING’S STATE PARKS ARE A MONEY DYNAMO - Visitors to Wyoming’s state parks & historic sites last year did more than just take in the sites or enjoy a relaxing weekend. They contributed nearly 40 million dollars to state & local economies. That’s a huge boost, we’re told, to the well being of local communities – especially rural communities. Michigan State University researcher Dr. Daniel Stynes tells us: . And more than a few of those visitors, according to Stynes, eventually decide to live or retire to Wyoming. During their initial visit, though, for every dollar tourists spend, over six dollars is eventually returned to state & local coffers. And while this may sound like “voodoo economics”, it isn’t. Wyoming State Park’s spokesperson Todd Thibodeau says Dr. Styne’s credentials are impeccable: . In total, nearly 2 point 3 million people visited Wyoming’s State Parks & Historic Sites in 2004 – the most recent year that figures are available.

CITY COUNCIL TACKLES FORWARD SHERIDAN ISSUES, THE SENIOR CENTER GREENHOUSE PROJECT, SIGN ORDINANCES, AND MAVRAKIS POND - Sheridan’s City Council met officially for the second time in the New Year. Sheridan Media’s News Director Ace Young was in attendance and files this report: . Ace makes a visit to Mavrakis Pond

January 16, 2006

CITY COUNCIL TO CONSIDER GRANT APPLICATION TO COMPLETE MAVRAKIS POND PATHWAY SECTION - The Sheridan City Council meets for their regular meeting this evening at 7, and Mayor Dave Kinskey tells us about a special item on the agenda: . And just what is that “something nice?” . The total anticipated cost of the project is approximately 260-thousand dollars, and the Council will seek 130-thousand dollars in grant money. The other 50 percent would come from the Optional 1-Cent Sales Tax revenues set aside for the Pathways Project. The regular City Council meeting begins at 7 in the 3rd floor City Hall Council Chambers, and will be broadcast live on AM 1410, K-W-Y-O.

PUBLIC HEARING ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING MONDAY AT NOON - The public is invited to attend a specially held hearing on the 2006 Community Development Block Grant Program at noon today. The purpose of the hearing is to solicit public views, comments and recommendations for potential submission of a grant application for the Wyoming Community Development Authority’s Community Development Block Grant Program. Councilman Mark Ketchum says the hearing is an important opportunity for the public: . If you are unable to attend today’s noon meeting there will be a second public meeting tomorrow night at 7 in the C-Tel Presentation Hall at Sheridan College. If neither meeting works for you, but you still wish to submit written comments or suggestions, you can send those to Donna Nowak in the City’s Planning Department before January 31st.

AMERICAN LEGION’S NATIONAL COMMANDER VISITS SHERIDAN - His visit to Sheridan is the pride of every local member of the American Legion. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the story: .

BISON HUNTING TO RESUME IN YELLOWSTONE - Bison hunting is set to resume today in Yellowstone, and here’s Sheridan Media’s Dave Wooten with more: .

SHERIDAN’S CIVIC THEATRE GUILD CELEBRATES FIFTY SEASONS OF PERFORMANCES OVER THE WEEKEND - Nearly 400 Civic Theatre Guild patrons helped the organization celebrate fifty seasons of community theatre Saturday evening at the WYO Theatre. Many people in attendance at Saturday night’s jubilee have been loyal patrons of the CTG for a number of years. Just ask long-time fan Polly Hill. . She says she looks forward to many more plays to come and also tells us why she enjoys shows put on by the Civic Theater Guild. . And keeping in the spirit of the “community event”, the CTG board hired Tongue River High School’s Pro-Start program to cater the pre-show party. Pro-Start is part of the “Family Careers Community Leaders of America” at the school, and member Zac Clevenger tells about some of the projects they are involved in. . With satisfied stomachs the theatre patrons sat back to enjoy a three-hour presentation of CTG history, musical numbers, and theatrical scenes, ending with a company number from “There’s No Business Like Show Business.” Indeed, may the Civic Theatre Guild “go on with the show” for fifty more seasons.

January 13, 2006

SHERIDAN CIVIC THEATRE GUILD CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF COMMUNITY THEATRE - For the past fifty theatrical seasons, Sheridan has been committed to providing quality entertainment for audiences of all ages, thanks to the Sheridan Civic Theatre Guild. A grand celebration is in the works, and Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson tells us the details: .

THAT MUCH-ANTICIPATED SHERIDAN INN ENGINEERING REPORT HAS BEEN RELEASED –That much-anticipated engineering report on the Sheridan Inn has been released. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: .

THE FUTURE OF THE SHERIDAN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS MAY WELL HAVE BEEN DECIDED - It is far from a done deal … but the future location of the Sheridan County Fairgrounds may well have been decided --- not by any particular vote … but by one particular offer. Sheridan Media’s Steve Sisson has the story: .

THE WYOMING AIR NATIONAL GUARD COMES TO THE ASSISTANCE OF NASA - It’s apparently a first for the Wyoming Air National Guard. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: . For more information on Operation Stardust visit http://stardust.jpl.nasa.gov

NATIONAL COMMANDER OF THE AMERICAN LEGION PAYS A VISIT TO SHERIDAN TODAY - Sheridan has a special visitor today, as National Commander of the American Legion Thomas Bock will be making the rounds to various destinations around town. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter gives us the details: .

January 12, 2005

TWO NEW CLASSES ADDED TO SHERIDAN COLLEGE CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROGRAM - Criminal Justice students have two new classes to take from Sheridan College beginning next week. Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson has more: . For more information call Bonnie Young at the Advocacy and Resource Center - 672-7471 or email her at info@arcsheridan.org,.

WILL BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN FINALLY PLAY IN SHERIDAN? - “Brokeback Mountain”, the story about 2 gay Wyoming cowboys, continues to garner critical acclaim and pack theatre houses elsewhere … but will the controversial movie ever be shown in Sheridan? Bill Campbell, owner of the Centennial Theatres, says “yes.” He says it would have already been playing locally except that: . Campbell says he’s anxious to see how “Brokeback” will “show in Sheridan”: . Campbell’s educated guess is that “Brokeback Mountain” could make its Sheridan debut in early February. The movie opened in Casper last weekend – reportedly to good crowds. It’s been playing in Jackson for a few weeks now. Interestingly enough, the film has been pulled from a theatre chain in Salt Lake City because of the subject matter. One of the stars of the movie … Heath Ledger … is quoted in an Australian newspaper as calling the decision to ban the movie in Salt Lake “immature” and “hilarious”.

UP TO 200 WANDERING YELLOWSTONE BISON ARE HEADING TO THE SLAUGHTER HOUSE. - It’s not one of their favorite jobs … but Yellowstone National Park officials are rounding up wayward bison. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: .

SHERIDAN PARKS & REC EMBARKS UPON AN ASSESSMENT NEEDS SURVEY - Sheridan Parks & Recreation took up some important issues last night. Among them, a community needs assessment survey. Director Richard Wright says “Leisure Vision”, a Kansas-based company, will begin that assessment shortly: . Wright says he expects that assessment survey to be completed this Spring – probably in April. Other items: Wright reports that interest for an indoor recreation building in Sheridan continues to grow: . That could include any number of venues – including an indoor pool or possibly an indoor skateboard park.

SAWS BOARD HEARS SOME GOOD NEWS ABOUT THE REALITY OF MOVING FORWARD WITH A TWENTY INCH WATER LINE - The Sheridan Area Water Supply Joint Powers Board, known as Saws met yesterday. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter was there and has this report: .

SENATOR ENZI ANNOUNCES THAT SHERIDAN WILL HOST A STATEWIDE BUSINESS CONFERENCE - U.S. Senator Mike Enzi’s office has a major announcement. The 4th annual Wyoming Government Procurement Opportunities Conference will be held this year in Sheridan. Why Sheridan? Enzi spokesperson Coy Knobel tells us: . This year’s procurement conference will be held February 22nd & 23rd at the Sheridan Holiday Inn. Knobel calls it a unique opportunity for small companies to learn how to do business with government agencies: . In total, more than 60 federal & state government entities & prime contractors are expected to participate in the upcoming Sheridan conference. If you’re interested in more details visit www.gro-biz.com/seminars.htm or visit Deb Farris of the U.S. Small Business Administration at 307.261.6510

January 11, 2005

WYOMING NATIVE AND BLUES ARTIST SPENCER BOHREN TO GIVE BENEFIT PERFORMANCE THIS WEEK - Internationally renowned blues artist and Casper native Spencer Bohren has been in town since Sunday to conduct several residencies in Sheridan and Buffalo. Here’s Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson with more: .

A FIRST-EVER NATIONAL REPORT CARD ON EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE HAS BEEN RELEASED – AND IT DOES NOT BODE WELL FOR WYOMING - A first of its kind national report card on emergency medical care in this country has just been released. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: .

A STATUS REPORT ON THE SHERIDAN INN IS DUE LATER TODAY - That much anticipated engineering report on the Sheridan Inn is due later today. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the latest: . Ace talks to experts about the Sheridan Inn

JUDGE UNSEALS DOCUMENTS IN GILLETTE MURDER CASE - A judge in Gillette has opened the file in a sex-assault case against a man accused of arranging the death of a witness against him. Kent Proffit is charged with eight counts of third-degree sexual assault against a minor. In a closed hearing Tuesday, District Judge Dan Price ordered the files in the case unsealed. The file had been sealed in December by another judge. The court papers reveal that the alleged victim was 16-year-old Bryce Chavers, who was found shot to death in his home on November 26th. Proffit is charged with conspiracy to commit murder for allegedly playing a role in Chavers' death. Three others are charged with murder and conspiracy. The court papers also said that Chavers said that Proffit had threatened to kill him if Chavers told anyone about the alleged sexual assault. The documents said the assaults occurred over about a year in 2002 and 2003. Proffit is also charged with murder and conspiracy in another man's death.

HIGH COURT SAYS WYOMING BINGO MACHINES ARE ILLEGAL - The Wyoming Supreme Court Tuesday upheld a ruling that electronic bingo machines once used at two Fraternal Order of Eagles Clubs ARE illegal gambling machines. In the ruling, the court states that "Fast Action Bingo" equipment and machines are gambling devices, and that the state's gambling laws are NOT unconstitutionally vague. Both the Sheridan and Cheyenne chapters of the Eagles Clubs and the company that makes the machines have argued that they should be allowed in Wyoming under a 1971 law that allows nonprofit groups to hold bingo games. But prosecutors argue the machines are more like slot machines than traditional bingo. What do the Eagles think of Tuesday’s high court decision? We posed that question to a couple of Sheridan Eagles: . And then we got this opinion: . Sheridan resident Roger Calkins is the statewide secretary for the Eagles. In the past, he says, profits from these games have been helpful to local non-profit organizations -- one group in particular: . Cheyenne attorney Gay Woodhouse represented the Sheridan & Cheyenne lodges and the company that made the machines. She says she's disappointed with the high court's decision, but that her clients don't plan to challenge the ruling.

SCHOOL DISTRICT 1 ADDRESSES LEGISLATIVE PROPOSAL - School District 1 had its monthly meeting Tuesday night. The hot topic on the agenda concerned a legislative proposal to change the funding formula for school districts. Sheridan media’s Ron Richter has the details: .

January 10, 2006

JUST IN: A FIRST-EVER NATIONAL REPORT CARD ON EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE HAS BEEN RELEASED – AND IT DOES NOT BODE WELL FOR WYOMING - A first of its kind national report card on emergency medical care in this country has just been released. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the details: . For more information visit www.acep.org

FEDERAL REPS PLAN A SHERIDAN MEETING - It’s a chance for citizens to meet with their legislative representatives … in Sheridan: . That’s Senator Enzi’s aide Robin Bailey who says tomorrow’s meeting is a chance to cut through red tape: . Again, tomorrow’s meeting is from 11 to noon in the Whitney Room of the Sheridan YMCA. No appointment is necessary.

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO CONSIDER PRIVATE SCHOOL LICENSING - The Wyoming State Board of Education is addressing the issue of private school licensing issues. Wyoming has developed a reputation as a haven for unaccredited colleges and universities – a reputation some in the state would like to change. Superintendent of Public Instruction Jim McBride is among those who have called for tougher regulations on unaccredited schools, but not everyone agrees that Wyoming should curb the institutions. Dr. Jerry Haenisch is the chancellor of Preston University, an unaccredited college based in Cheyenne with campuses all over the world: . Haenisch says they can do that by setting up their own accrediting body to certify the quality of the schools that are actually in Wyoming and operate from Wyoming: . And just how can that be done? . State Superintendent Jim McBride was unavailable for comment.

BACK COUNTRY TRAVELERS BEWARE – THE AVALANCHE ALERT IS ON. TODAY WE PRESENT PART TWO OF THIS SPECIAL REPORT - Near record snowfall in much of the Rocky Mountains has also meant a real concern about avalanche conditions. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has part 2 of a special report: .For more information visit avalanche.org

A RECENT STRING OF STRUCTURE FIRES HAS KEPT THE SHERIDAN FIRE-RESCURE DEPARTMENT BUSY - The start of the New Year has been extremely busy for Sheridan Fire-Rescue. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the story: .

January 9, 2005

BACK COUNTRY TRAVELERS BEWARE … THE AVALANCHE ALERT IS ON - A series of Pacific storms has dumped several feet of new snow in parts of Utah, Colorado, Montana & eastern Wyoming. Nice huh? Nice to look at. Some excellent skiing – especially in Utah … but also very dangerous. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young has the story: .For more information visit avalanche.org

STUDENTS AT SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL ARE SAYING: LET’S TALK. - They’re called “DRIVEN.” Might sound like the name of a new band … but it’s not. DRIVEN is a group of Sheridan High School students with an important agenda. News Director Ace Young has the details: .SHS Students watch a video from the Driven program

ZOO-MONTANA HAS A NEW MEMBER - There will be something new to see at Zoo-Montana in Billings. Sheridan Media’s Dave Wooten has a report: .

U.S. SENATORS THOMAS AND ENZI PLEASED WITH WYOMING’S JOB GROWTH STATUS - U.S. Senator Craig Thomas announced today that both the nation and Wyoming are creating jobs at a steady clip. Overall, the nation saw its employment coffers increase by two million jobs. In Wyoming, over 21-thousand jobs have been created since May 2003, with 7 hundred jobs created as recently as this past November. At 3-point-8 percent, the unemployment rate for Wyoming is one of the lowest in the nation: . And how did the statistics look nationally at year’s end? . Thomas says that more people are buying homes and that household incomes are at an all-time high. But their work in Washington isn’t done yet: . Weighing in on the topic, Senator Mike Enzi indicated that with the help of good policy initiatives, even more jobs will be added. Enzi cited the need to continue educating and training a strong American workforce, keeping the momentum going to maintain our number one status in the world’s economy.

January 6, 2006

POSTAL RATES ARE GOING UP SUNDAY. ARE YOU PREPARED? - The report is that post offices are doing a brisk business selling 39 cent stamps. Why? Sheridan Postmaster Jacob Weeder reminds us that postal rates are going up as of Sunday: . The 37 cent first class letter will be 39 cents … and with the new rates … some new stamps: . And if someone were to forget about the rate increase and try to mail a letter with only 37 cents postage? . And an FYI here: this rate increase doesn’t just involve first class mail: . Sheridan Postmaster Jacob Weeder.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE’S CENTER FOR A VITAL COMMUNITY ANNOUNCES THEIR TEAM OF 24 - They’re called the “Team of 24”. Chosen by Sheridan College’s Center for a Vital Community, they will participate in a 5-day residential retreat at Eaton’s Ranch in May that will, we’re told, increase their effectiveness at working with others in identifying community opportunities & goals. Loft goals, no doubt … but important ones – according to the Center’s Jenny Craft: . Craft calls it a “huge honor” and says it was a difficult job to come up with the “Team of 24” from the 94 applications. Do you know any of the following selectees? Listen carefully: . The selected delegate are Bob Rolsten, Ray Pacheco, Dave Kinskey, Kyle Williams, Everett McGlothlin, Mark Kinner, Scott Chandler, Jay McGinnis, Mike Nickel, David DeBolt, Bill Huppert, Kevin Jones, Carmen Rideout, Rosie Berger, Julie Davidson, Mary Jo Johnson, Zoila Pacheco, Sue Belish, Carolyn Benepe, Jill Bates, Laura Sands, Shelly Kinnison, Doreen Choong, and Melissa Butcher, Alternates for the 2006 Sheridan CiViC Project are Randy Stout, Robert Briggs, Steve Cropley, Duane Farley, Edre Maier, Jennifer Shassetz, Christi Haswell, and Billie Little.

SHERIDAN’S FAVORITE SON SHOWS HIS STUFF - His name is Sam Street – and he is Sheridan’s Favorite Son when it comes to what some might say is “non-traditional art.” His Tin Man statue is a favorite just off Grinnell Plaza. His paintings are a hit as well. And last night, on the mezzanine of the Fulmer Library, we got a chance to see the art … and meet the man – Sam Street: . Whoops! Sorry about that Sam. No problem though. It doesn’t take long for our interview to get “back on track” as we discuss the title of his gallery display – Travels with Sam: . Indeed. Sam Street’s works ARE at home on the 2nd level of the Sheridan County Fulmer Library for the entire month of January. They’re also on sale – with half of the purchase price going to the library.Artist Sam Street tells us about one of his paintings on display now at the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE CONDITION OF THE SHERIDAN INN - Structural engineers were on hand Thursday – going over the historic Sheridan Inn with a “fine tooth comb” – or in this case … lasers & radar: . That’s John Feinberg – the head honcho at a Boulder, Colorado-based company that specializes in historic buildings. He’s here in Sheridan
heading up a major effort to stabilize what is described as “settling” at this community’s one & only National Historic Landmark: . How bad is that “settlement”? Bad enough, Feinberg has determined – especially along the Inn’s north side: . Feinberg and the other structural engineers are, as we said, going over the entire Inn – beginning with the earth below, then the foundation and then inspecting the building itself. It’s a huge job but one that, Feinberg argues, has to be done: . The next several days will be crucial ones at the Sheridan Inn – and that includes an about-to-be released report ordered up by the non-profit Sheridan Heritage Center: . And, of course, we’ll be sharing Feinberg’s findings at that time. Sheridan Media was the first to tell you about these latest structural woes and we’ll continue to cover these latest efforts to preserve the Home of Buffalo Bill and so much more. All next week, we’ll continue our special coverage. We invite you to stay tuned.

LOOK FOR CONTINUED GROWTH ON SHERIDAN’S WEST SIDE - Development along the fringes of the city limits of Sheridan continues to be a hot topic. SAWS water, sewer line extensions, transportation corridors all play into the discussion. Meanwhile, week after week, month after month, new developments are on the drawing boards. The latest? It’s so new it doesn’t have a name yet – but Roy Dygert, the owner and would-be developer, can tell you its location: . And it’s not a small property either. 129 acres that could be subdivided into dozens of lots. Dygert this week got some good news from the County Commissioners: . The rezone is from ag to rural residential and in Wyoming can mean parcels with septics instead of sewers and on lots as small as two acres.

A BULL ELK HAS BEEN KILLED INSIDE YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK AND OFFICIALS WANT TO KNOW WHO DID IT AND WHY - Investigators at Yellowstone National Park are seeking information about the recent illegal killing of a bull elk. Rangers discovered the headless carcass of the elk on December 30th, just off U-S Highway 191 inside the park. Investigators believe the elk was shot and killed the day before it was discovered. They're asking anyone with information about the killing to call them. A 500-dollar reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the responsible persons. Hunting is illegal inside the park, and anyone found with dead or wounded animals or loaded firearms may be charged under federal law.

NEAR RECORD SNOWFALL HERE IN WYOMING – BUT IT’S ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE STATE - Seven feet of snow has fallen in western Wyoming since late December while the state's eastern half have seen little of the white stuff. A spokeswoman for Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, said the mountain's snow depth was at its third-highest level in the last 40 years. The mid-mountain snow depth is 91 inches – that’s the second highest depth ever recorded for early January. Paul Skrbac is a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Riverton and tells us why western Wyoming is getting the abundance of white stuff: . As to why folks east of the Continental Divide are NOT seeing much snow … well, Paul says you can blame the Big Horns: . They get snow; we get wind. Doesn’t seem fair … but Skrbac DOES describe the situation when THESE environs collect the bounty: . But hang in there, Paul says. It’s only a matter of time when those Canadian systems start kicking in … and then, we’ll get the snow.

January 5, 2006

SHERIDAN’S FAVORITE ARTIST’S WORKS ARE ON DISPLAY AT THE LIBRARY - A collection of works by local artist Sam Street are on display during the entire month of January at the Sheridan County Fulmer Library. And, of course, the first question that comes to mind: will Sam’s infamous “Tin Man” be on display? . And of special note: An opening reception featuring the artist is this afternoon from 5 to 7. Refreshments will be served and both the reception & exhibit are free and open to the public.

SIGN ORDINANCE MEETING DRAWS A LARGE CROWD - Members of the City Council along with the Planning Commission and Design Review Board met with the public last night to discuss the city’s proposed sign ordinance. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter was there and has the details:

A DISTRICT 2 OFFICIAL COMMENTS ON WYOMING SCHOOLS - In the world of education, it’s a big story. Education Week magazine has just released its ranking of schools – state by state. Wyoming gets mixed reviews: high marks for funding, facilities & class size. Less than favorable ratings for learning standards. One person who’s had a chance to study the report is District 2 Assistant Superintendent Tom Sachse: . And another plus about Wyoming schools? . As we said, the study gave low marks to certain areas of Cowboy State education: . District 2, meanwhile, has 3-thousand students and is, by Wyoming standards, huge. Sachse says that makes things a little different locally: . All in all, the Education Week magazine study gave Wyoming a better than average score – and certainly better than our neighbor to the north. Montana’s education system received a “D” and ranked next-to-last in the country.

SENATOR THOMAS SAYS “FEMA” HAS SOMETHING TO LEARN FROM THE WRIGHT TORNADO RECOVERY - Wyoming Senator Craig Thomas continues his tour of Northeast Wyoming. Last night he watched Wyoming Cowboys basketball with friends in Newcastle. This was after an extensive tour of post-tornado Wright. Thomas said he was impressed with disaster recovery in Wright – especially how FEMA was able to work hand-in-hand with local agencies: . Thomas was so impressed that he’s pledged to apply what he saw in Wright elsewhere: . Wyoming Senator Craig Thomas.

THE ABRAMOFF SCANDAL IN WASHINGTON MEANS A WINDFALL FOR LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS - All 3 members of Wyoming’s Congressional Delegation say they’ll donate campaign contributions from lobbyist Jack Abramoff and his clients to charity. As we know, Abramoff has pleaded guilty in federal court in Washington to mail fraud, conspiracy and tax evasion charges. As part of the plea agreement, he’s agreed to share information with investigators about alleged bribes to lawmakers. With that news and the continuing unwinding of this influence-peddling probe, lawmakers across the country are scrambling to distance themselves from the on-going revelations. Here in Wyoming, Senator Craig Thomas will donate a total of 8-thousand dollars of Abramoff-related funds to the tornado victims of Wright. Senator Mike Enzi will donate a thousand dollars he received from the lobbyist to a unspecified Wyoming charity. And Representative Barbara Cubin, this state’s only house member, says she will return 250 dollars she received from Abramoff to the Wyoming Substance Abuse Treatment & Recovery Center here in Sheridan.

ARE YOU READY FOR WARMER WEATHER? WELL, STICK AROUND. IT MAY BE COMING SOONER THAN YOU THINK. - Welcome to the wacky world of Wyoming weather. Windy & wintry would be a couple of descriptions. “Warming” might be another description. Joining us on the phone this morning: meteorologist Bill Rasch of the National Weather Service up in Billings. Bill, correct me if I’m wrong but it’s the coldest time of the year right now? … but not for too much longer? . That IS cold. But just as our days starting getting longer after December 21st … our days typically become warmer as on January 14th.

January 4, 2005

SHERIDAN COMMUNITY PLANS FOR A BIG BASH - Sheridan County Commissioners Tuesday unveiled plans for a community-wide party. Sheridan Media News Director Ace Young was on hand and has the details: .

STRUCTURAL TROUBLES ARE UNCOVERED AT THE SHERIDAN INN. - Some troubling news uncovered at the Sheridan Inn. Jim Norton is the President of the Sheridan Heritage Center Board and he tells us: . And just what are those structural defects? Well, Sheridan Inn Executive Director Edre Maier says they were discovered via a visit from a structural engineer who specializes in historic buildings: . Some serious settling of the north end foundation. Serious enough that an engineering team from Denver is making a return visit: . And needless to say, we’ll be on hand tomorrow when that team makes their assessment. There is a bit of good news amidst what sounds like a good deal of “gloom & doom”. Structural stabilization is a necessary requirement for the Board’s planned efforts to return the Sheridan Inn into a viable accommodation for overnight guests. Again, we’ll be updating you with more when the engineers make their Sheridan Inn “house call” tomorrow.

Meade Creek Fire Damage

Skeels Street Fire

SHERIDAN FIRE & RESCUE CONTINUES TO INVESTIGATE TWO LOCAL FIRES - Sheridan Fire & Rescue continues to investigate two local fires that caused extensive damage. A New Years Eve fire destroyed a single level home on Meade Creek Road. No one was injured but there is another concern. Lyle Short and his family were out of town at the time and they lost all their belongings. Fire/Rescue’s Jason Etchechoury tells us more: . Again, contact Jason Etchecoury at Sheridan Fire/Rescue for all that information. The cause of the Meade Creek fire is still being investigated. Fire/Rescue is also investigating a fire at a private garage on Skeels Street in Sheridan: . And the monetary loss in that fire? .

SHERIDAN’S CITY COUNCIL APPROVES EASTSIDE DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND FUNDING FOR EVEN START PROGRAM - Eastside development of Sheridan and helping out the Even Start program were the hot topics at last night’s Sheridan City Council meeting. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter was there for the details: .

THE SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSION HAS A NEW CHAIRPERSON - With a new calendar year … comes a new chairperson amongst the three Sheridan County Commissioners. Commissioner Larry Durante served in 2005. Ky Dixon before that. It made sense that 2006 would belong with Commissioner Terry Cram: . And with the change in leadership at Tuesday’s first commission meeting on the year came some friendly jostling for memberships on various civic boards: . And we’re pleased to report that in less that a minute or two, Ky, Terry & Larry worked out their various memberships.

THE ISSUE OF SEPTICS IN STORY SURFACES ONCE AGAIN - It’s a long standing joke: the community of Story is a great place to visit … but don’t drink the water. Fact is … the water IS probably safe to drink … but with 300 to 400 non-permitted septic tanks in the community, potable water quality continues to be an issue. And the issue certainly didn’t go away after revelations this past summer that fecal matter was found in the Piney Creek Drainage. Meanwhile, what is Wyoming’s DEQ doing about the on-going problem? . That’s Rick Estes … water & waste water engineer for DEQ who says it could take up to 6 months to sort out the various issues of how septic tanks should be permitted and how often. And what that permitted process be one that involves Sheridan County? . Another Story Community meeting on the septic issue has been called for January 18th.

January 3, 2005

ERIC LOFGREN RETIRES AS CHIEF OF DAYTON’S VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT - After 26 years of dedicated service to the people of Dayton, with 16 of those years as Fire Chief, Eric Lofgren says farewell to the Dayton volunteer fire department. It’s been a full and varied career, highlighted by the big fire of 2003 that narrowly missed wiping out the community. Lofgren looks back on his career as a volunteer firefighter: . And who will replace Eric as Chief? That’s be determined this evening: . So now that he’ll have all this time on his hands, what are Eric’s future plans? . And does Lofgren have any final thoughts about his colleagues? . And by virtue of our conversations with his colleagues, we can report that the feeling is mutual. After 26 years, Eric Lofgren will be missed.

SHERIDAN’S CITY COUNCIL WILL MEET FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR - The Sheridan City Council will hold it’s first meeting of the year tonight. Normally, the Council’s meetings are held the first and third Mondays of each month, but with yesterday being the observed holiday the Council will convene tonight. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the story: .

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SPONSORS A ONE-ON-ONE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET WITH OUR LEGISLATORS - It’s not every day that it’s possible to talk to our state legislators … much less a half dozen of them at one time … but that opportunity is coming up soon enough: . That’s Melissa Butcher, Executive Director of the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce. As to what participants will be doing over those couple of days: . And while the event is still a month away, Butcher urges interested persons to sign up now … BEFORE it fills up. Contact the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce for all the info.

THE CLEAN UP OF SHERIDAN MIDDLE SCHOOL: WHEN WILL IT BE FINISHED AND WHAT’S NEXT? - Local commuters can’t help but notice the progress in the clean-up of the former Middle School property on Sheridan Avenue. But not everything is noticeable to the visible eye: . That’s Tom Kinnison … president of property owner Whitney Benefits. . Quite a process indeed. Huge machines turning huge chunks of concrete into saleable aggregate. Lance Phillips is in charge of that particular project: . That machinery can be seen doing its’ thing from day break to late afternoon: . And as far as what happens to the Middle School property when the clean-up IS completed? Well, we posed that very question to Tom Kinnison: . We note that the Middle School property is adjacent to Whitney Benefit’s much-touted Eastside Project which should get its’ final approval at tonight’s Sheridan City Council meeting.

LOOK FOR A CHANGE IN OUR WEATHER TODAY – THAT INCLUDES RAIN AND SNOW - The National Weather Service says a major winter storm is moving into Wyoming … western Wyoming at this time: . That’s meteorologist Bill Rasch of the National Weather Service who tells us a little more about when that storm moves into these environs: . And because that storm is relatively warm, we expect little accumulation of snow. Perhaps an inch of white stuff near the mountains.

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