Sheridan Media April News 2007

FAMILIES AND FRIENDS GET SET TO GIVE THE POWDER RIVER COWBOYS A PROPER WELCOME HOME - They returned home from Iraq just after the big snowstorm at the end of March, and while Sheridan has been decorated with banners and yellow ribbons and “Thank You, Troop” signs in windows and on marquees, there has been no official gathering to hold a collective “Welcome Home” for the Powder River Cowboys – until now, that is. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the story: .

SHERIDAN COLLEGE STUDENTS EXCEL AGAIN - Several students to highlight from Sheridan College. Beginning at 4 this afternoon, the Sheridan College Fine Arts Wing Gallery will be the place for an Artists' Reception. Two Associate of Fine Arts students, Lindsay Nighswonger and Allison Reinemer will both graduate with an A.F.A. Degree this year.The students are displaying paintings, pottery and drawings, all of which they did in classes at Sheridan College. The reception is free to the public and refreshments will be served between 4 and 6 this afternoon. The artwork will be on display through Friday, May 11th. And word from Sheridan College technology students – as we'd reported last week, members of the Welding, Construction Technology and Machine Tool Technical programs participated in the State Wyoming Skills USA competition in Casper, where two students claimed the top spot and finished second, respectively. Machine Tool Technology student, Kyle Spragg, nabbed the first place spot in the Precision machining competition, while machine Tool student, Derek Kellch, finished second. Carpentry student, Asa Hodgson, took first in the Carpentry contest, and he also placed fourth in Related Technical Math. Spragg and Hodgson will be competing at the National Skills USA competition in Kansas City in June. Photo courtesy of Ryan Ragan, SCC Marketing Dept.”

SHERIDAN COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE BEGINS TODAY AT MEMORIAL HOSPTIAL - It's time once again to roll up those sleeves and let the phlebotomist do the work. We're of course talking about donating blood, and Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the scoop on the latest Sheridan Community blood drive: . Appointments for Sheridan Blood Drive- 1-800-365-4450 or www.bloodhero.com ; Gillette Blood Drive- Chris Burnett-307-751-3490

IS SHERIDAN'S MAYOR TURNING INTO A HIPPIE? - We brought you the “what” last week about the new green waste and cardboard recycling bins around Sheridan. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love now brings you the “why”: . The intent of this new program is to make it easier for residents to recycle, by assuring that no resident has to travel more than Y2 mile from home to get to a "green waste" bin. Present sites for the Green Waste recycling bins include:
- Oats Memorial Park on the Seventh Street side, between Sheridan and Saberton .
- The Skate Park parking area off 11 th Street adjacent to Thome-Rider Park.
-The Elk Pasture parking lot.
-The south side of Kendrick Park. between Belleview & Swan Streets
- Marshall Park, on Big Horn Avenue at Edwards Drive.
.-Washington Park, off Coffeen Avenue.
.-The parking area at Mavrakis Pond.
The city is looking at additional drop-off sites for bin placement. The city will continue to accept "green waste" at the city landfill. The city will then recycle the yard waste by turning it into pallet chips, evergreen chips - useful as mulch around shrubs to reduce growth of grass or weeds in those areas - dyed chips, other mulch and landscaping materials and compost, which will be made available to Sheridan residents. Click Here for Recycling PDF File.

DECKS, ROOFS AND MORE WERE GOING UP AROUND SHERIDAN THIS WEEKEND - Known by many as “Christmas in April” but what is now called “Rebuilding Together” the annual project to help mostly elderly people fix up their house was this weekend. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love worked on one of the three local houses and has this report: . Video of Volunteers build a deck for Christmas in April

JUROR APPRECIATION DAY TO BE HELD AT THE SHERIDAN COUNTY COURTHOUSE TOMORROW - Tomorrow it's those of you who have served or who are currently serving on jury duty who get a day to be honored, as the folks over at the Sheridan County Courthouse will conduct a Juror Appreciation Day. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson with the details: .

OUR WEEKLY POLL QUESTION ASKS YOUR OPINION ABOUT FIREFIGHTER SALARIES - As the City of Sheridan firefighters continue their negotiations for a new union contract, we took to the streets to ask this week's poll question. Should the City pay firefighters more than other City of Sheridan employees? . Let us know what you think by logging on to Sheridan Media dot com, then be sure to tune in Friday morning at 9 to Open Line Friday on News Talk 930 KROE to hear the results. And new to Sheridan Media dot com, our public forum, where you can read others' comments and post your own.

FORECLOSURE RATE IN WYOMING AMONG LOWEST IN THE NATION - Property foreclosures remain rare in Wyoming even while the numbers are up sharply in other states. According to the Bargain Network, a firm that provides information on foreclosures, Wyoming had 21 foreclosures last month, less than one foreclosure for every 10,600 households. Only Vermont had fewer foreclosures, with just under one per every 25-thousand households. Meanwhile, our neighbor to the south, Colorado, had about 11-thousand filings last month, amounting to about one foreclosure for every 161 households. And the reason might not be what you'd think – some experts say that foreclosures most often are the result of local economic conditions, and not the result of loans being made to sub-prime borrowers.

GILLETTE FAMILY DOUBLES IN SIZE WITH BIRTH OF QUADRUPLETS - A Gillette family has just doubled in size. Twenty-eight-year-old Maureen Arnold gave birth to quadruplets at a Denver hospital last Tuesday. Doctors at Saint Luke's Medical Center in Denver say the three baby girls and one boy are all healthy, and should be ready to return to Gillette by the middle of next week. Maureen and her husband, Matt Arnold, already have two daughters, one three-year-old and one six-year-old. With four new babies, Matt Arnold says family life is going to be a three-ring circus in the years ahead. Talk about an understatement. Matt says he's relieved that one of the babies is a boy. But he says it's going to be tough for the lad to grow up with five sisters, and he's already planning lots of hunting and sports for the boy.

WYOMING'S WENDLING DRAFTED BY BUFFALO BILLS - University of Wyoming standout John Wendling has been drafted by the Buffalo Bills. The Bills picked Wendling in the sixth round of the NFL draft Sunday at number 184. Wendling is a 6 foot 1, 222-pound safety who co-captained the Cowboys. He was a standout on special teams, and led the Cowboys with 78 tackles, of which 38 were solo. In a posting on the Bills' Web site, Bills scout Brad Forsyth says Wendling is an excellent physical specimen. He says Wendling's defensive numbers would probably be higher at UW if the team hadn't thrown so many different roles at him in special teams. Wendling says football is the game he loves and says he loves having the opportunity to bring his talents to the NFL.

TODAY IS “WORKERS MEMORIAL DAY” - Today is “Worker's Memorial Day,” which started in 1989 and is now observed in nearly 100 countries across the world. But this day has special significance in Wyoming because we score the highest nationally, per capita for work-related deaths. However, there are some who say those statistics paint a misleading picture. Cindy Pomeroy Director of the Department of Employment: . So how much is “a bit”? . Cindy adds that work-related injuries have stayed static over the years while the overall number of workers have increased. However, it should also be noted that she is speaking about jobs that fall under OSHA jurisdiction. Along with interstate transport; mining, railroad and small ag businesses are not among those OSHA oversees. For more information on work-place safety, call for Free OSHA consultive services: 307-777-7786

WYOMING IS #1 ... UNFORTUNATELY - Wyoming is unfortunately #1 again for the third year in a row. We're talking about on-the-job death rates. There were about 17 deaths per 1,000 workers this year. Kim Floyd, with the Wyoming AFL-CIO, says not enough workplace safety inspectors is part of the problem: . Floyd adds that legislative proposals to amp up inspections are regularly rejected. Some industry officials contend that some workers die while driving, so poor driving skills, not workplace environment, should be blamed.

SHERIDAN POLICE DEPARTMENT TO TAKE PART IN CHILD SAFETY DAY TODAY - Tomorrow is Child Safety Day in Sheridan, and law enforcement personnel from the Sheridan Police Department are taking part in an activity at Wal-Mart. Officer Jim Arzy explains: . Arzy says the kids will go away with a pile of fun things, like coloring books, crayons, story books that talk about safety, and even mood pencils that change colors when you touch them. On a very serious note, however, the main focus of their involvement with Child Safety Day is for parents to pick up child identification kits: . Officer Arzy says that the DNA samples last a long time, and are certainly less messy to collect than finger print samples. A critical piece of the child's ID kit? . Arzy recommends that parents replace the picture in the ID kit with each new school picture that's taken. And, he adds, it's not a bad idea to put a kit together for newborns on up to young adults. ours for the Child Safety Day by the greeting card section of Wal-Mart are 11:30 to approximately 1:30 today.

YOU STILL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO GATHER ITEMS TO DONATE TO THE ANNUAL DIABETES EDUCATION GARAGE SALE – The good people over at the Sheridan Community Diabetes Education Committee have come up with some unique fund raising methods, and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson tells us about one of them: .

IT'S TANDEM TIME! AUDITIONS FOR THE SUMMER CHILDRENS THEATRE PRODUCTION TO BE HELD TOMORROW - It's Tandem Time again! Sheridan's Tandem Productions children's theatre is holding auditions tomorrow morning for their annual summer musical, and they're reviving Guys & Dolls, Jr. Producer Tami Davis tells us: . The story line of Guys & Dolls is an old favorite: . Davis says they've cast up to 50 children in the past, and because she knows there are a lot of, well, guys around this year, they've chosen this Broadway Classic. There is one rule Tandem strictly follows, Tami says: . Guys & Dolls, Jr. is for children ages 8 to 15, in other words, kids having just completed 2nd grade through 9th grade. Again auditions will be held at the WYO Theatre tomorrow morning at 10.

COMMUNITY LEADERS GATHERED TOGETHER TO...COMMUNICATE - Members from Forward Sheridan, Sheridan County Fair Board, the County and City Planning Commissions, and local teachers, among others, gathered at Sheridan College last night to discuss strategic planning. “Strategic Planning” is a popular topic currently, and this meeting focused on communication. Organizer John Patton: . There are more meetings like this coming up where more widespread community input will be sought ... so be sure to stay tuned.

A LOCAL BUSINESS IS SAYING “NO” TO DRUGS - A local business has just announced they are going to “just say no.” Ron Spence is the General Manager of the Best Western Sheridan Center: . Along with the V.O.A., Sheridan's Chamber of Commerce and Workman's Comp are assisting the Best Western Sheridan Center. They are the first in the hospitality industry to initiate a Drug Free Workplace.

DEVELOPMENT OF COAL MINE NORTH OF SHERIDAN IS ANNOUNCED - Affiliates of CONSOL Energy Inc. and the Pittsburgh and Midway Coal Mining company have entered into a joint venture agreement to develop the proposed Youngs Creek Mine just north of Sheridan. Public Relations Coordinator for CONSOL Energy, Lynn Manning, has the details of the agreement: . Both CONSOL Energy and P&M Coal Mining are based out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Manning explains what brings them to our neck of the woods: . As far as when we can expect the mine to be up and running? . Lynn said that based on initial feasibility studies, the mine has the potential to reach fifteen million tons of coal a year when at full production. Manning did not have a number on how many jobs would be made available, but did say that once the mine is working, Youngs Creek Mining Company would be hiring its own employees. Aqua-Terra Consultants of Sheridan is working on the engineering, environmental and permitting work, and Manning said that application for permits will be submitted in late 2008.

RECEPTION HELD TO INTRODUCE NEW DOCTOR AT WYOMING RADIOLOGY AND MRI - A special reception was held last night at the Sheridan Surgical Center to introduce the services of a new orthopedic surgeon at Wyoming Radiology and MRI. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: .

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCILOR DUANE FARLEY SAYS HIS FAREWELLS - Sheridan City Council said some sad goodbyes yesterday afternoon at a Special City Council Meeting. Council member Duane Farley gave a farewell address to the Council before they voted to accept his resignation, which he gave late last week: . And his words of wisdom for future Councilors? .Duane gave his resignation last week after accepting a job offer in Cody. A position is now open for Farley's spot on the Council — contact Sheridan City Hall for details. Click here for Resignation PDF File.

WHAT ARE THE GAPS IN SHERIDAN'S RETAIL MARKET? - Could Sheridan support a couple more thousand square feet of pet supplies? Are retailers under-supplying high-end clothing or food? These are some of the questions that will be answered in a detailed study, if grant funds are approved for the “Retail Market Analysis and Work Plan for Sheridan County” by the Wyoming Business Council. In a special meeting yesterday afternoon, Sheridan City Council approved sponsoring a 25-thousand-dollar grant application. Sheridan Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Melissa Butcher: . But, she adds, ultimately the study will benefit a wide scope of economic development: . The 25-thousand-dollar grant, if approved, would be matched 25 percent; with Forward Sheridan, Sheridan's Chamber and the Downtown Sheridan Association each contributing 25-hundred dollars.

SPRINGTIME COUNTY ROAD WORK NECESSITATES CAREFUL DRIVING - The Sheridan County Road and Bridge Department is alerting county residents to take caution when driving on the following roads: Cat Creek, Wild Cat, Soldier Creek, Beatty Gulch, Beatty Spur and Wakely. Crews have applied the Calcium-Chloride dust suppressant to these roads, which initially changes the surface appearance to look white, and it may cause the roads to be very slippery, especially in the early morning. They say that after a few days of dry weather, the roads will harden, and department officials assure that the material is not harmful to people or animals. Vehicles are another matter, however, and folks driving on these roads are encouraged to wash your vehicles as soon as possible.

ALERT The County Commissioners would like to advise the Sheridan County residents that our Road and Bridge Department has applied the dust suppressant calcium-chloride to the following roads: Cat Creek, Wild Cat and Soldier Creek. This suppressant, when first applied, will change the road appearance to white and may cause the roads to be very slippery. A few days of dry weather will harden the road. Drivers should use caution especially in the early morning hours. This material is not harmful to people or animals, however, washing your vehicles is strongly recommended.

CLARIFICATION SHERIDAN COUNTY SAWS RESIDENTS WEST OF NORMATIVE SERVICES ON BIG GOOSE ROAD AND EAST OF BECKTON HALL ROAD WILL BE WITHOUT WATER UNTIL APPROXIMATELY 5 PM TODAY - Word from the City of Sheridan Public Works Department on the water service outage today. For the purpose of worker safety on the 20” water line project, pressure in the existing 16” main that serves all of SAWS and part of the City of Sheridan residents will be reduced. Prior reports indicated it would effect all of Sheridan County; however, we now know the specific area to be west of Normative Services on Big Goose Road and east of Beckton Hall Road. Water service SHOULD be back to normal by the end of business hours today. Public Works asks those affected that when water is turned back on, to please run their taps for a few minutes to clear out any silt.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE AND CHILDCARE CENTER INTERTWINED - We've been reporting for a few weeks now about the proposed Childcare Center for which the City of Sheridan, Sheridan School District 2 and Sheridan College have developed a Joint Powers Board. Head of the Early Childhood Education program at Sheridan College, Dr. Lissanna Follari, discusses how the college branch of the JPB will come in to play with the Childcare Center Initiative: . Acknowledging providers' concerns, Dr. Follari says that next Wednesday, May 2nd, childcare providers will have an opportunity to voice them in a meeting at the Whitney Vocational Center: : . A program about which Dr. Follari is quite excited. It's the new college board-approved Early Education Certification: . Follari says that the certification can then fold into the two-year Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. She stresses the importance of Sheridan College's role in developing and enhancing their course offerings as a means of supporting the existing, and the future, childcare provider needs in the community. And for more information about the May 2nd meeting, Dr. Lissanna Follari or Center for a Vital Community can be reached through the college's main number: 674-6446

SHERIDAN COLLEGE STUDENTS IN FREE ENTERPRISE HOST BUSINESS ETHICS PRESENTATION TONIGHT - As part of their “Last Hurrah” of the school year, the award-winning Sheridan College Students in Free Enterprise, or S.I.F.E. participants, are bringing a guest to town for a presentation this evening at the C-Tel. Business professor and S.I.F.E. Sponsor, Tracy Dearinger: . The event is quite timely, Dearinger says, as she gives various examples of where business ethics come into play:

. Dr. John Fraedrich's Business Ethics presentation begins at 7 this evening in the C-Tel Presentation Hall at Sheridan College, is free and open to the public. Dearinger also says that business owners are encouraged to attend, and the S.I.F.E. students will also hand out a questionnaire for feedback on the event.

A THEATRICAL BOOM IS HAPPENING IN SHERIDAN THIS WEEK - Not one, not two, but THREE different plays are running in Sheridan, and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has information on all of them: .Video of 3 Plays in Sheridan

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL BOARD GETS THE FINANCIALS FOR MARCH - The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees met for their monthly meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: .

WILDLIFE HERITAGE FOUNDATION OF WYOMING TO HOST STATE SUMMIT IN EARLY MAY - The Wildlife Heritage Foundation of Wyoming hopes to improve communication and relationships with conservation organizations, industry and other entities involved with wildlife habitat in Wyoming. Heritage Foundation Executive Director, Marlene Brown, says the summit will be a good time to develop answers to some of the issues facing wildlife and wildlife habitat in the state right now: . The Wildlife Heritage Foundation of Wyoming summit will be held May 11th and 12th in Casper at the Parkway Plaza.

WESTERN WILDERNESS IS GETTING ANOTHER LEGISLATIVE LOOK - Will Wyoming and its neighbors get a little wilder? That partly depends on legislation recently introduced in Congress. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the report: .

HOW SAFE IS OUR COMMUNITY? - Just a reminder that anyone interested in keeping our local communities safe will want to attend a discussion out at Sheridan College tonight. Jessica Flahive with the Center for a Vital Community: . Getting a wide range of input in these discussions is important, so the event is free and everyone is encouraged to attend. Want to go but not sure what to do with the “little ones?” No problem—child care will be provided. Just be sure to show up by 5:30 at the Watt Ag Center at Sheridan College.

STORY FIRE DISTRICT LOOKING TO HELP RESIDENTS WITH EXCESS SLASH - Last month's winter storm made quite a mess in Story, as downed trees and branches are a common site throughout the community. However, the Story Fire District, through a cost sharing program, wants to help residents clean it up. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: . For more information, call John Lunbeck 751-2977 or visit www.storywyoming.org . Video of Slash Chipping in Story

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL, THE DOWNTOWN RETAILERS AND FORWARD SHERIDAN MAY PURSUE A GRANT - Tomorrow at noon, the Sheridan City Council will be holding a special hearing aiming at a proposed 25-thousand dollar grant application for a Community Development Block Grant to develop a Retail and Market Analysis Study for Sheridan's downtown. Outgoing Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce Director, Melissa Butcher, tells us: . Melissa says if Council approves going after this grant, a collaboration will come in to play with the funding: . Also at the special meeting, Council will acknowledge Duane Farley as he vacates his council seat – you'll remember we reported last week that Farley has resigned, and will be relocating to Cody with his job. Tomorrow's special Council meeting begins at noon in the 3rd floor City Hall Council Chambers, and is open to the public.

WE'LL HIGHLIGHT WEEK OF THE YOUNG CHILD BY HEARING FROM THE CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER IN SHERIDAN - This is National Week of the Young Child, and to highlight it we thought we'd take a look at what the Child Development Center in Sheridan is all about. They provide screenings for all children, from six months through age five. Mandy (doo-bee) Dube with the Child Development Center explains that they cover all of the aspects of development: . Linda Garretson, also with the Child Development Center, points out why the first three years are so vital in a child's development: . Linda recommends that children be screened at least once between six months and two years old and have another screening done when the child is age three to five. It should also be pointed out that screenings at the Child Development Center in Sheridan are free with no cost to the parents.

COMMUNITY PROVIDER TRAINING THIS EVENING AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE AS PART OF WEEK OF THE YOUNG CHILD - Amidst all the Week of the Young Child activities and events going on, a special class will be held this evening at Sheridan College. Dr. Lissanna (lee-SAH-nuh) Follari is the head of the Early Childhood Education program: . Dr. Follari says that the class will be exploring our own culture and the variety that is right here in our community. An added bonus for childcare providers, Dr. Follari tells us: . The Community Provider Training Class starts at 5:30 this evening in Whitney Room 175 on the Sheridan College campus.

TRANSPORTATION FORUM TONIGHT AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE C-TEL - How do you feel about the transportation system – or lack thereof – in Sheridan County? If you have ideas of how the transportation issue can be addressed, you have an opportunity to lend your voice and ideas at a public meeting tonight at the Sheridan College C-Tel Presentation Hall.Barb Daugherty is with the Sheridan Senior Center's transportation department that runs the Mini Bus and the Sheridan Trolley. She describes why your input is needed: . Barb says that a fair amount of pre-meeting research was conducted: . And even though we do have the mini bus – which is truly for the entire public to use, covering most of Sheridan County and even medical trips to Billings – there are still gaps in our public transportation system. That's where your input comes in, to identify those gaps and to participate in long-term strategic planning.The Public Transportation meeting gets underway at 5 this evening, at the C-Tel at Sheridan College. It is co-sponsored by the Sheridan Senior Center and the Center for a Vital Community.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE DIESEL MECHANIC STUDENT IS TOPS IN THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION - Trevor Lutterman is a winner. He was recently given the Cummins Rocky Mountain Region Outstanding Student Award for his academic and hands-on skills as a Diesel Mechanic student through the program at Sheridan College. Cummins is one of the biggest engine companies in the country. A humble young man who hails from Buffalo, Trevor indicates pride not so much for himself, but for the school's program: . This is Trevor's second degree, his first being an Applied Science degree in Machine Tooling. A focused student, Trevor will be receiving the Diesel Mechanic degree in only one year – normally it takes two years to complete. Quite a feather in the Diesel Program cap, teacher John Sikkenga says: . Sikkenga says that the Rocky Mountain Region for Cummins encompasses eight full states and several partial states, making this Outstanding Student award for Trevor even more significant. Trevor's opportunities are unlimited, with a possible career path that could take him to several states. Hopefully, his ultimate choice will be to stay right here in Wyoming.

LAND TRUST PUBLIC FORUM OPEN TO ALL TONIGHT AT C-TEL - The public is invited to attend a free presentation at the C-Tel Hall at Sheridan College tonight. Event organizer, Roger Wilson, reminds us about the particulars: . The Land Trust Public Forum runs from 7 to 8:30 tonight at the C-Tel Presentation Hall at Sheridan College. Again, it is free, and refreshments will be provided.

SHERIDAN PEDIATRICIANS AND OTHERS TO HOST AUTISM SCREENINGS TOMORROW - Autism. The World Health Organization and the American Psychiatric Association classify autism as a developmental disability that results from a disorder of a person's central nervous system. A special day-long Autism Screening is taking place tomorrow, and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the details: . Goose Creek Pediatrics, 1701 West 5th Street, Sheridan. Appts. - 672-7700

SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL RECEIVES SURPRISE LOCKDOWN DRILL MONDAY MORNING - Little did the students, faculty or staff at Sheridan High School know Monday morning, but they had a surprise visit. Principal Dirleen Wheeler explains: .Sheridan Police Sgt. Tom Ringley describes how the lock-down worked: . Assisting the police department was the Sheridan Fire Department and Rocky Mountain Ambulance – in all, about 15 to 20 law enforcement and emergency personnel were at the school. Contrary to other reports, these lock-downs happen twice a year in the school district, and have been conducted for several years. The lock-downs are one of a two-part safety protocol, with the other being, says Principal Wheeler: . Principal Wheeler says that as a result of the lock-downs, they've determined some areas where security needs to be improved. She says that in the future there will be modifications to the visitor entrance, as well as a security gate between the Freshmen wing and the rest of the high school. As for the lock-downs themselves, she says: . There will be more lock-downs in District 2 before the end of the school year.

SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 PARENTS AND THE COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE INVITED TO SPECIAL LUNCH AT SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL TOMORROW - Tomorrow at noon, Sheridan High School Principal Dirleen Wheeler is issuing you an invitation: . Principal Wheeler describes some of those updated District goals: . The free Parent/Community lunch forum at SHS begins at noon in the conference rooms. Wheeler says just come in to the main office, and they'll escort you to the room. And, she adds, it's important for them to get a head count so they know how many lunches to order, so a quick call to the school with an R.S.V.P. is much appreciated. For lunch reservations, please call 672-2495, ext. 2002

THE WAGE GAP ISN'T LOOKING GOOD THROUGHOUT THE U.S.--BUT HOW ABOUT WYOMING? - People are often shocked to hear women only make 77 cents for every dollar men earn in the United States. But even more striking are Wyoming's stats — women average only 57-cents for every dollar their male counterparts earn. That is partly why The Wyoming Council for Women's Issues (WCWI) will celebrate Equal Pay Day today, a national observance that recognizes the wage gap between working women and working men. Diane Moser, with the Council tells us: . She adds that women should explore opportunities in “non-traditional” fields like construction, engineering and science, because many employers in these non-traditional fields are offering family-friendly work environments to attract and retain highly qualified, dedicated workers. The link to their website is: www.pay-equity.org/day.html .

COULD A VIRGINIA-TECH TRAGEDY HAPPEN HERE? - Attention, community members interested in keeping our local towns safe — there is a discussion you'll want to attend this week. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the details: . The Center For A Vital Community phone number is 674-6446 X 4201

SHERIDAN CITY PLANNING COMMISSION TOOK A LOOK AT SECONDARY ACCESS REGULATIONS - Sheridan's City Planning Commission approved the 8th filing for the Cloud Peak Ranch residential subdivision at their meeting last night. Sheridan City Planner Robert Briggs: . The Commission now only has to review the final plat for this subdivision before it heads to Sheridan City Council. They also approved the request to annex about 10 acres by Carrington Street, East College Avenue and Park Street. Finally, the Commission reviewed a presentation on updating secondary access regulations.

SHERIDAN COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY DINNER TO FEATURE LOCAL AUTHOR - The monthly Sheridan County Historical Society dinner Thursday night will feature local author Helen Graham and her new book “Pass Creek Country: 'The Story of Early Settlers'”. Historical Society Vice President , Mary Ellen McWilliams, explains some of the families that are highlighted in the book: . Graham did much of the research for the book in the Wyoming Room at the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library, where she served as director for thirty two years. In 2000, Helen received the Wyoming State Historical Society's highest honor, the Cumulative Contribution Award for Lifetime Achievement in Western American History. Along with the author speaking about her latest work, Mary Ellen explains something else special about Thursday night's dinner: . The Sheridan County Historical Society dinner starts at 6 pm at the Sheridan Holiday Inn, with meal reservations requested by noon today. If you plan on just attending the free program, that will get underway at approximately 6:45 pm. Call Linda or Karen for reservations at 674-4436. Price of the dinner including tax and tip is $13.

SHERIDAN SENIOR CENTER IS ALWAYS LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD VOLUNTEERS - As April begins to wind down, so does National Volunteer Appreciation Month. One local organization that depends heavily on its volunteers is the Sheridan Senior Center. Volunteer Coordinator with the Senior Center, Nancy McKenzie, explains the program where they need the most help: . Nancy says that it usually takes up to twenty-five volunteers a day to deliver all of the meals around Sheridan County, and that they are always looking for additional help: . So is there any type of training one would have to go through before becoming a volunteer at the Senior Center? . McKenzie also stated that their annual volunteer appreciation breakfast will be this Thursday at 7am at the Sheridan Senior Center. If you are interested in volunteering at the senior center, call the Sheridan Senior Center (307) 672-2240.

THERE'S A NEW WELLNESS COUNCIL CHIEF IN TOWN - It's been awhile since Sheridan's Memorial Hospital has had a Wellness Council Coordinator, but the seat has been filled. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson with more: .

SHERIDAN CITY PLANNING COMMISSION HOLDS THEIR FINAL MEETING OF THE MONTH TONIGHT - The fourth Monday of the month means it's Sheridan City Planning Commission time. On tonight's agenda, the Commission will consider Cottonwood Point and a request to annex just over 10 acres, zoned R-2 in the area east of South Carrington, north of East College and south of Park Street. The 8th filing of Cloud Peak Ranch subdivision will be reviewed – you'll remember that developers have requested approval to create 61 residential lots and 8 out-lots on just over 29 acres in the area west of the intersection of the new Highland Park Elementary School. Lastly, the Commission will consider amending a Sheridan City Code to subdivision regulations pertaining to secondary access. The Sheridan City Planning Commission meets tonight at 7 in the City Council Chambers at Sheridan's City Hall. It is open to the public.

A NOT-SO-NEW TECHNOLOGY IS HITTING THE ROADS — VERY QUIETLY - Here's a quiz for you to start out your work week: what is bigger than a cow but quieter than a bug? Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the answer for you in this story: . .

THE EVENTS LAST WEEK IN BLACKSBURG, VIRGINIA PROMPTED THIS WEEK'S POLL QUESTION - The news out of Blacksburg, Virginia rocked the nation last week, as a Virginia Tech student with known mental problems gunned down thirty-two people on the school's campus before taking his own life. The incident prompted this week's poll question: Should people with psychiatric problems be allowed to purchase firearms in the United States? . Let us know what you think by logging on to Sheridan Media dot com. Then be sure to tune in Friday morning at 9 during the Jackson Electric Open Line on Newstalk 930 KROE to hear the results.

THE STATE WELDING COMPETITION GETS UNDERWAY IN CASPER THIS WEEK AND EIGHT SHERIDAN COLLEGE STUDENTS WILL BE A PART OF IT - The two-day state welding competition gets underway tomorrow in Casper, and eight students from Sheridan College will be there to compete. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: .

JUST A QUICK REMINDER TO PUT ON YOUR WALKING SHOES TODAY - We've been telling you a lot about the local events and celebrations these last weeks, which have been going on as a precursor to today, Earth Day. You'll want to grab your walking shoes, because people are meeting at Sheridan's Kendrick Park at 2 for a “Walk for the Earth,” which is going to start at the bandshell. And there are going to be some games, including a “Nature's Hunt.” Folks from the Sheridan Senior Center have already said they are going, and if today is anything like the events these past weeks, it should be a success. One of the organizers, Liz Howell, gives us a recap:. So will there be some post-Earth Day ways to get involved?. To become involved locally you can email Ainslie Kincross: akincross.msn.com. Become part of the “Cool Community's Campaign”: Environmental Tips

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN RETAILERS COMMITTEE CHOOSES THEIR SUMMERTIME SHOPPERS THEME - The Historic Downtown Retail Committee, which is a collaboration of the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Sheridan Association, has decided on their annual summertime theme. Outgoing Chamber Director, Melissa Butcher, with the announcement: . Contrary to the pesky buzzing we tend to hear each summer in the city parks, the “Catch The Buzz” bees that will adorn participating shops will promote “bee-ing Downtown.” And as has become the custom over the past few summers, you'll have many reasons to head downtown, Melissa tells us: . Again, Celebrate the Arts will be in June. Other summer downtown activities for us to look forward to include the 7th Annual Hoop Jam, and of course the Sheridan WYO Rodeo. Don't forget to look for the welcoming “Catch The Buzz” bees in retailers' shops.

YOU WILL HAVE A CHANCE TO CLEAN UP A LOCAL REC SPOT FOR EARTH DAY. - Today is Earth Day and you will have a chance to clean up a local recreation spot. Phyllis Simon with the Public Land Users Committee gives us directions: . The Beatty Gulch area is one of the few remaining public lands in Sheridan County on which people have been able to dirt bike and ride ATV's. However, because the abuse of a few irresponsible users in tearing up the land and littering has gotten worse, the area is in danger of being closed off to everyone, including those who respect the area in question. Phyllis says that their group is working hard to preserve the use of Beatty Gulch, with some help: . The Public Land Users Committee wants to share in the task of taking care of the land; hence today's clean-up efforts. Again, they'll gather out at Beatty Gulch at 3 this afternoon. For more information you can call Phyllis at 673-4460. And if you can't make it today, but are interested in learning more about the Public Land Users Committee call Phyllis Simon: 673-4460.

EPA WANTS AIR CLEARED ON WYOMING GAS DEVELOPMENT - The Environmental Protection Agency, along with Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality are recommending that the BLM slow down its natural gas development in the Pinedale Anticline. Recent studies have shown that the speed of the proposed drilling would severely impact air and water quality, as well as wildlife habitat in the area. Linda Baker with the Upper Green River Valley Coalition says that's exactly the point her group has been stating all along: . Baker points out that current BLM plans don't include specific details on how pollution will be averted: . Officials with the BLM have said that they plan on providing adequate alternatives for dealing with the pollution from accelerated drilling. However, the D-E-Q and E-P-A have both expressed disappointment with the BLM for failing to outline just what those specific alternatives are.

COME OUT AND ENJOY WYOMING SPRINGTIME FOR AN EARTH DAY EVENT - They're continuing with the celebrations this weekend. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the story:

SHERIDAN COLLEGE RODEO WOES - At Thursday night's Northern Wyoming College Board meeting, representatives from the Sheridan College rodeo team brought forth concerns about the conditions under which they've had to practice and compete. Sheridan College president, Dr. Kevin Drumm, tells us that chief among the concerns is the lack of an indoor arena: 04-21-05. Drumm says that the rodeo team now finds itself in coach transition, too:

. The Sheridan College rodeo team's season concludes next month.

THE 2007 MISS WYOMING SCHOLARSHIP PAGEANT IS COMING SOON – CONTESTANTS ARE IN TOWN FOR WORKSHOPS - In just a couple of months, the 2007 Miss Wyoming Scholarship pageant will take place. A two-day pre-pageant workshop culminates today, and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has more:

THERE ARE A FEW TICKETS LEFT FOR THE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION BENEFIT CONCERT TONIGHT AT THE WYO THEATRE -The long wait is nearly over. Tonight at the WYO Theatre, blues sensation, Spencer Bohren and vocalist extraordinaire, Karen Clift, will enchant the audience with their collaboration of two very different musical worlds, all for the benefit of the annual Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation benefit. Pals on stage and off, Karen tells us what the experience of putting this unique program together has been like:

. Only balcony seats remain for tonight's show, which begins at 7:30. If you'd like to attend a pre-concert reception at King's Ropes just down the alley from the theatre, that begins at 6:00. Tickets for both the reception and concert are 50 dollars, and show-only tickets are 25 dollars, and are available at the WYO box office starting at noon today, or you can log on to www.wyotheater.com. All proceeds this year benefit Hospice of the Big Horns.

NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK WRAPS UP TODAY AND SHERIDAN COUNTY FULMER PUBLINC LIBRARY WILL HAVE A SPECIAL EVENT FOR TEENS IN THE AFTERNOON - Today is the final day for National Library Week, and the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library has had numerous events all week long to celebrate the occasion. Fulmer Library Program Coordinator Anita Weisheit explains what they'll be doing today to culminate the week:

. Anita says that there'll also be raffles and games to go along with the teen poetry this afternoon at the Fulmer Library.

THE MATTHEW SHEPARD ACT ARRIVES IN CONGRESS - Matthew Shepard's story is circulating through our nation's capital as legislation designed to protect people from hate crimes based on sexual orientation has been introduced in Congress, titled the “Matthew Shepard Act”. Clergy from around the state, along with retired chaplain and member of Wyoming Equality, Bob Spencer, were recently in D.C. for the introduction of the legislation and Spencer likes how it will help local law enforcement:

. The bill would allow the Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute certain bias-motivated crimes based on the victim's actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or a divisibility. Spencer says there's also pending legislation that would update federal laws on workplace discrimination:

. Spencer, along with his group Wyoming Equality, have been pushing for tougher federal laws against those that commit hate crimes.

SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 CRAIG DOUGHERTY ISN'T PLEASED WITH HOW PAWS TESTING IS BEING ADMINISTERED - Recently students around the state finished up their second year of PAWS testing, and by all accounts it was another year of problems and headaches for students and faculty alike. Sheridan County School District Two Superintendent, Craig Dougherty, gives us his opinion on what's wrong with PAWS: . Dougherty also said that Harcourt, the company that administers the test, should be held accountable for doing such an incompetent job. Craig says that after two years of problems, it's now in the Wyoming Department of Education's hands: . Dougherty, along with other school officials around the state, remains cautiously optimistic that the Department of Education will use their recommendations to get the PAWS frustrations cleared up for next year.

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCILOR DUANE FARLEY ANNOUNCED HIS RESIGNATION - Sheridan City Council will soon have an empty chair where Councilor Duane Farley currently sits. Councilor Farley has now given his formal resignation to the City because of a recent opportunity, he tells us: . Though, the decision to relocate to Cody was not easy, he says: . Councilor Farley has served the Sheridan community for nearly three years on the City Council, representing Ward 1.

THE “DONUT FIRE DISTRICT” PREPARES FOR NEGOTIATIONS - The newly-formed “donut fire district” had a board meeting last night. The new Board now holds the responsibility for negotiating with the City of Sheridan over fire protection. Treasurer Chuck Simon says he thinks it will be easier now to hash out a deal with the City: . Plus, he adds: . The Board will have a work session this coming week and meet with the City soon after.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE BOARD COVERS A WIDE RANGE OF TOPICS AT LAST NIGHT'S APRIL MEETING - The Powder Horn clubhouse was the setting for last night's regular Northern Wyoming Community College District Board of Trustees meeting, with a full agenda to cover. Trustees approved recommendations for two full-time positions; the first, at Sheridan College, is Mark Johnson as Communications Instructor. At Gillette College, they aproved Norman Walters as an instructor in Criminal Justice / Political Science. Unanimous approvals regarding numerous policies dealing with faculty and staff wage, salary and employment; board guidelines; and governance guidelines using the first AQIP Action Project. Sheridan College president, Dr. Kevin Drumm, explains: . The Northern Wyoming district is the first in the state to be granted AQIP status, Gillette College president, Dr. Paul Young, will be presenting that achievement at a Chicago conference coming up in the near future. In other college news, two Associate of Applied Science degrees were approved, one for the Culinary Arts program, and the other for the Construction Technology program. And, the board approved an Early Childhood Education certificate. Lastly, Dr. Drumm comments on the tragedy at Virginia Tech: . A committee has been established to review the safety procedures for the Northern Wyoming College District.

LOCAL LEADERS ARE PREPARING FOR A PANDEMIC - Over 40 local community leaders gathered at Sheridan's Holiday Inn yesterday. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love was there and has the story: .

SHERIDAN'S MEMORIAL HOSPITAL TO HOST VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION LUNCH NEXT WEEK - Next week is National Healthcare Volunteer Appreciation Week, and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson brings news from Sheridan Memorial Hospital: . For more information, call Cecile Pattison: 672-1017 or cecilepattison@sheridanhospital.org

SHERIDAN COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY TO HOLD LINCOLN DAY FUNDRAISING DINNER TOMORROW NIGHT - The Sheridan Holiday Inn will be the site of tomorrow night's Sheridan County Republican Lincoln Day fund raising dinner. There will be various auctions and raffles throughout the evening but the highlight of the night is all about a certain individual who'll be in attendance, says event Chairman Mike Watkins: . Watkins says that at 5:30 people will be able to do a sort of “meet and greet” with Luthi for about forty-five minutes. Furthermore Mike adds: . So is this event open to anyone from the public? . Tickets for the Lincoln Day fund raising dinner can be purchased in advance or at the door for fifty dollars. If you'd like to get your tickets in advance, call Mike Watkins 751-7509 or Rosemary Schunk 674-6013.

CORRECTION POLO GEAR NOT OUT OF THE PICTURE JUST YET IN RANCHESTER - We've got some clarification to bring to you regarding a story we ran on Wednesday. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: .

GOVERNOR FREUDENTHAL ASKS WYOMING CITIZENS TO RECOGNIZE THIS MORNING THOSE TOUCHED BY THE TRAGEDY AT VIRGINIA TECH - In remembrance of the victims of the recent shootings at Virginia Tech University, Virginia Governor Timothy Kaine has requested that other states join his state in ringing bells at noon eastern time. While no official ceremony is planned in the Cowboy State, Governor Freudenthal's Press Secretary, Cara Eastwood, says the governor does have a special request for this morning: . Also to honor the victims of the shootings in Virginia, flags around the nation shall remain at half staff until Sunday at sunset.

SHERIDAN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES ITS NEW DIRECTOR - Her name is Janelle Martinsen, she hails from southern California, and she's been named the new Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. But before you think, “oh, no – not another California transplant,” Janelle is actually coming home. Although a California native, Martinsen lived in Sheridan between 1983 and 1988, and she'd worked at the Sheridan Chamber of Commerce when she was in high school. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Communications from Chapman University in Orange, California, and over fifteen years experience in the escrow industry. Martinsen has just completed four years as escrow operations manager for nine escrow branches in that state. Martinsen replaces outgoing director, Melissa Butcher, who describes how the passing of the baton will go: . Martinsen will officially be a Sheridan resident on May 2nd. Again, her Chamber Director duties begin Monday, May 7th.

CLOSING ARGUMENTS WEDNESDAY IN THE CASE OF LAPP VS. HOT IRON CONSTRUCTION / McCLELLEN & MacQUEEN - Eight days and twenty witnesses later, the jury heard closing arguments in the civil case of Lapp vs. Hot Iron Construction / McClellen & MacQueen Wednesday in Sheridan's District Court. Little sleep the night before, as the three lead attorneys prepared their summations, whittling years of depositions and documents down to the critical arguments that each hoped would win the jury over on their clients' behalf. For the plaintiffs, Shelli Lapp and her daughter Kelsee, was Kent Spence, who began by saying that Kelsee herself would not be present for the closing because some statements would be too painful for her to hear. Spence asked the jury, “How do you tell a true case? The evidence all lines up.” He said the defense for both Hot Iron and M & M had used a “shotgun approach, with no true theory, hoping to 'hit something.'” Spence spoke for his alloted time, closing with an outline of the expenses the Lapps have already incurred, and saying that three million dollars was a reasonable amount to ask for, for a future that included more pain and suffering, and therefore, more treatment and medication. It was then Rex Arney's turn, as lead for Hot Iron. He told the jury this was a case about a construction area, in which the Lapps lived and knew about for months prior to September 24, 2003 when Kelsee fell in the inlet box, having received weekly informational and safety updates, all of which asked that residents keep their children out of the construction zone. And attorney for the counter-defendant, McClellen & MacQueen, Kathleen Chaney, began her closing with the statement, “It's amazing any of us survived childhood with all the cuts, bruises and accidents we endured, and we never sued anyone. This case has not had enough responsibility and too much blame.”

A FIVE AND A HALF HOUR DELIBERATION, AND A VERDICT BY END OF BUSINESS DAY WEDNESDAY IN THE CASE OF LAPP VS. HOT IRON CONSTRUCTION / McCLELLEN & MacQUEEN - Closing arguments in Sheridan's District Court ended in the Lapp vs. Hot Iron / McClellen & MacQueen civil case, and then power was handed over to the jury. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson with more: .

SHERIDAN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES ITS NEW DIRECTOR - Her name is Janelle Martinsen, and she hails from southern California. But before you think, “oh, no – not another California transplant,” Janelle is actually coming home. Although a California native, Martinsen lived in Sheridan between 1983 and 1988, and she'd worked at the Sheridan Chamber of Commerce when she was in high school. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Communications from Chapman University in Orange, California, and over fifteen years experience in the escrow industry. Martinsen has just completed four years as escrow operations manager for nine escrow branches in that state. Martinsen will assume her new duties with Sheridan's Chamber on May 7th, but she will be working with outgoing Chamber Director, Melissa Butcher, and other Chamber members during the interim to ensure a smooth transition.

DRASTIC RATE INCREASES FOR SAWS WATER WOULD BE NECESSARY TO COVER THE ACTUAL COSTS—BUT WILL THE BOARD GO THAT FAR? - The Sheridan Area Water Supply Joint Powers Board held the first of what is looking to be several informational meetings to get public input about rate increases last night at Sheridan College's CTEL. Preliminary figures about potential increases in user fees, usage rates and new tap fees were presented. However, these increases, while significant, would still not come close to covering the actual cost increases. SAWS Administrator, Jay Stender: .Stay tuned because there will be more public informational meetings on SAWS rate increases soon.

JEFFREY BARKER, WHO WAS RECENTLY ARRESTED ON CHARGES OF “CONSPIRACY TO DELIVER COCAINE” WILL NOW BE FACING “FORGERY” AND “BURGLARY” CHARGES AS WELL - Jeffrey Barker and Daniel Rojo were arrested this week; both are facing charges of forgery, and Barker is facing an additional burglary charge. This is also not Barker's only current legal snaggle. In January, he was arrested on charges of “conspiracy to deliver,” and his current legal troubles might be related to the old ones. Barker and Rojo allegedly worked together to steal a checkbook from Cox fencing. They then, allegedly, cashed a forged check for just over 16-hundred dollars. According to Court documents, Barker kept 14-hundred of that money replacing money from his parent's account which he used for a trip to the state of Washington. Barker allegedly previously traveled to Washington to pick up cocaine to bring back to Sheridan.

HOW ECONOMICAL IS RECYCLING? - The City of Sheridan is currently looking at expanding local recycling programs. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the story: .

A POST-TRIAL HOME-SCHOOL TOUR OF THE COURTHOUSE AWES STUDENTS - Thirty-five home-schooled children from around the county visited the Sheridan District Courtroom, Wednesday, just after lawyers wrapped up their closing arguments in the Lapp vs. Hot Iron and McClellen & MacQueen civil suit. The jury went into deliberation, and the kids came in.Treating the scene as if it were an actual beginning of session, Court Reporter Bob Neill gave the “all rise” announcement, after first hinting to the kids that the judge would be coming in wearing a big black dress.Judge John Fenn warmly greeted the students and their mothers, indicating that he knew several by name. He then went on to describe the importance of the court and the judicial system, a point echoed by attorney Kent Spence when he got up to speak to the kids: . Judge Fenn also asked the other attorneys to speak – Spence's colleague, Mary Alice McClarty on the plaintiff's side, and defense attorneys Rex Arney, Misty Godwin, John Fairless, and Kathleen Chaney.And the judge highlighted Bob Neill's court reporting duties, saying that he has the “coolest” job in the court, using a really “cool code machine” that only he can read. The kids then asked questions, and the judge and attorneys took them on a tour of the old courthouse, including the dome and the old jail.

MAJOR CHANGE TO WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT TRAINING FUND IS HEADING FOR TESTING - The Workforce Development Training Fund is a program through the Wyoming Department of Workforce services that provides grant money to state businesses to train their employees. Starting July 2nd, the department will be testing a major change to it's application procedures. Currently, the application must be postmarked no less than forty-five calender days prior to the start of training. The four-month test period, the minimum application time will be decreased to thirty days. Program Manager of the Workforce Development Training Fund Mark Hawkins explains why the change: . Joan Evans is the Director of the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services and she says that she's anxious to see how things pan out : . Between July 1st of 2006 and April 1st 2007, the Training Fund helped pay for training for over two thousand Wyoming workers in two hundred and forty three state businesses.

NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK WITH A SPECIAL EVENT AT THE FULMER PUBLIC LIBRARY TONIGHT - National Library Week continues at the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library with the annual Friends of the Library Author Reception tonight. Fulmer Library Program Coordinator Anita Weisheit gives us the details on who'll be the main attraction: . Anita has a few more details about tonight's author reception: . If you haven't gotten your advance tickets, don't worry; you'll be able to purchase them at the door. Once again the Friends of the Library Author Reception is tonight at 7:30 at the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library.

DAYTON TOWN COUNCIL HAS 3RD AND FINAL READING ON THEIR BUDGET - Many town's and cities around the state haven't begun to work on their budget, while last night at their meeting Dayton's Council already had their 3rd and final reading for the 2007-2008 budget. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: .

IT WAS THE DEFENSE SIDES' TURN TO CALL WITNESSES IN SHERIDAN'S DISTRICT COURT TUESDAY - Two witnesses. That's all defendant Hot Iron Construction and counter defendant McClellen and MacQueen chose to question in the civil case brought about by Shelli Lapp and her daughter, Kelsee in Sheridan's District Court. We've been reporting on the trial daily since last week, highlighting testimony for the plaintiffs that Kelsee Lapp, who fell in what they claim to be an uncovered inlet box on Gladstone on the evening of September 24, 2003, has been suffering pain from R.S.D., a nerve condition the plaintiffs' medical experts say Kelsee developed as a result of the fall. The defendants brought in Dr. Tashof (tash-off) Bernton, an M.D. From outside Denver, who testified that Kelsee's symptoms are more closely related to a condition called Muralgia Parasthetica (pair-ih-stet-ih-cuh). She experiences numbness and has been able to endure physical therapy treatments that a person with R.S.D. would not be able to tolerate. In Dr. Bernton's opinion, the Muralgia Parasthetica is not a condition that would require a lifetime of therapy and medication; rather, that it is a “manageable nuisance”. The plaintiffs spent their cross examination time focusing on the doctor's credibility, saying he's been paid nearly as much for this testimony than their four medical experts combined, and that his diagnostic tool of a Q-SART test isn't accurate for determining R.S.D. Plaintiffs also pointed out the Dr. Bernton had been disqualified from testifying in four Colorado trials last year. The second witness for the defense was Stacy Sweeney, a physical therapist formerly with Sheridan Physical Therapy,who worked with Kelsee from December, 2004 to the spring of 2005 during two separate treatment sessions. Sweeney testified that Kelsee had been making progress with her re-conditioning exercises, and that after a time, she started canceling appointments, and never used a free pass to a fitness center. From what Stacy learned in researching treatment , a patient with R.S.D. would have hypersensitivity to pain. Yet, Sweem observed, Kelsee never winced, squirmed or moved during deep massage treatments, and said she felt better the more she would exercise. Plaintiffs pointed out that Sweem was not qualified to assess R.S.D. The defense rested by 2 pm yesterday afternoon. Both sides presented closing arguments this morning; and the jury is in deliberations at this time.

FORMER FIGHERFIGHTER MARC HARTMAN HAD HIS INITIAL APPEARANCE IN CIRCUIT COURT - Marc Hartman, the former Sheridan Firefighter accused of stealing pain medications from local residents, appeared in Sheridan Circuit Court yesterday afternoon. Hartman allegedly stole Hydrocodone and Oxycodone from at least three Sheridan residents after entering their homes under the guise of checking their fire extinguishers and alarms. Hartman later confessed to these crimes during an investigation. He was never formally arrested and appeared in court yesterday by summons. The three charges against Hartman are “Attempting to acquire a controlled substance by misrepresentation of fraud.” These are felony charges and carry a potential punishment of imprisonment for 5 years and a fine of 10,000 dollars. During Hartman's Court appearance yesterday, Judge Samson placed a 35-hundred unsecured bond on him. A date has not yet been set for Hartman's next court appearance.

CORRECTION Sheridan Media inadvertently reported on Tuesday that former Sheridan firefighter Marc Hartman had been arrested prior to his appearance in Sheridan Circuit Court. He had cooperated with the investigation, and had appeared in court per summons. We regret our error.

PRESCRIBED BURN IN BIG GOOSE CANYON – RESIDENTS TOLD NOT TO WORRY - Residents west of Sheridan may have seen smoke earlier today, but they need not be alarmed. A prescribed burn was scheduled for the Big Goose Canyon area near the city's water intake facility for the purpose of improving habitat improvement for elk and deer. The burn was anticipated to be complete around 1 this afternoon.

FREE CONCERT TOUR WILL MAKE A STOP IN SHERIDAN TOMORROW NIGHT - Aspecial free concert will be held at the Sheridan Junior High School tomorrow night as part of a ten-concert tour around Wyoming. It is made possible in part by the Muriel and Dr. Sy Thickman Family Charitable Foundation of Sheridan. Dr. Thickman tells us just who will be performing: .The Piatigorsky Foundation strives to bring classical music to places where it is not normally available. Cellist Evan Drachman: . Once again the free concert will be tomorrow night at the Sheridan Junior High School at 7 pm.

THE NEW OFFER FROM THE CITY OF SHERIDAN TO THE FIREFIGHTERS' UNION COULD CARRY A HEFTY PRICE TAG - Sheridan City Council voted “yes” on a sweetened deal for the local firefighters Union at this week's Sheridan City Council meeting. The new offer would make the 4.5% pay increases retroactive to the first of the year. The new offer would make contributions to the firefighters' Health Savings Accounts retroactive, as well. The Union has not indicated whether they will accept this offer at this point. However, any offer they do accept will likely create inequity among City employees in terms of pay and benefits. Sheridan City Councilor Marc Ketchum stated at the City Council meeting that if the Union accepts this new offer, he would push for all City employees to get the higher raises the firefighters would receive. That would cost the city an additional 700-thousand dollars in pay raises, combined with the firefighters' raises. Click here for PDF file of the Negotiations.

THE NEW FIRE DISTRICT WAS DROPPED FROM THE NEST - The newly-formed fire district in Sheridan County was officially dropped from the nest this week. The County will continue providing funds until the district has accumulated enough money to provide viable fire protection on their own. However, at this week's Sheridan County Commission meeting, the three commissioners voted to shift the responsibility of negotiating with the City of Sheridan over interim fire protection contracts to the new Fire District Board. Chairman Randy Rowland: . The Commissioners will contribute 500-thousand dollars to the new fire district to negotiate with the City for these services. However, the City has said in recent months the amount previously paid by the County did not even come close to the amount it costs them to provide these services. Several analyses done by the City show the cost is hundreds of thousands of dollars more than the County pays. While the County has disagreed with the numbers provided, the City has indicated the cost for providing these services to the County will go up. So the question is: will 500-thousand be enough? County Commissioner Terry Cram: . In other commission news, they also voted to contribute 27-thousand to the City of Sheridan Transportation Study because the study area includes sections of the County. And they announced that Evelyn Ebzery will leave the Hospital Board in July; applications for the position are now being accepted. It has come to our attention that we inadvertently reported that the County would pay the City 500-thousand dollars to the new fire district. The actual amount is 300- thousand dollars. Sheridan Media regrets this error.

ARE SOME ROADS IN SHERIDAN COUNTY DESTINED TO BECOME A “NO-MAN'S LAND”? - Sheridan City Council voted not to annex three roads the County tried to pass on to them at this week's Council meeting. In addition, the City drafted a resolution for procedures for accepting contiguous county roads; however, they narrowly decided to table the resolution, allowing the County to throw in their own 2 cents. Commissioner Terry Cram says they received the resolution at the last minute and there are definitely some specifics he'd like to discuss with the City. In addition he says: . Cram says he is willing to work with the City on finding a compromise for these issues and would be willing, for instance, to share the cost with the City for surveying the roads. However, he adds: . The “Matt” Commissioner Cram referred to was Sheridan County Attorney Matt Redle. So will it be that some Sheridan County roads become a no-mans-land? We will find out in coming weeks.

CITY OF SHERIDAN'S BUILDING DEPARTMENT WILL BE SOON BE SPORTIN' THEIR “NEW DIGS” - The City of Sheridan Building Department will be sportin' it's “new digs” by the end of the week. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey: . They've decided in the process to keep the old jail cell intact ... so the pressing question is: who gets the key to the cell? . Of course, we will all be waiting in anticipation to see who gets the keys. Also important to note – the City Building Department will be closed for business this Thursday and have limited services on Friday to facilitate the move. Video of Sheridan City Hall Gets "New Digs"

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL MAKES A “PRO SPRING-CLEANER” VOTE - “Pro-Spring Cleaner” is the message sent during a special Sheridan City Council meeting held late yesterday. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey: . Really? Free? . And residents are also encouraged to help clean up the City, as well: . The Sheridan County Landfill is open to take household refuse at no charge over the next four Saturdays beginning this weekend – that's April 21st, and 28th and May 5th and 12th. Just remember to bring your City utility bill, as that will be necessary for you to drop off your trash at no charge.

RANCHESTER TOWN COUNCIL GETS WORD THAT POLO GEAR MAY NOT BE RELOCATING TO RANCHESTER AFTER ALL - Ranchester's Town Council met last night and got some bad news regarding Polo Gear and their relocation to Ranchester. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details .

A BREEZE COULDN'T KEEP THE FLAMES FROM BURNING AT THE ANNUAL CASA CANDLELIGHT VIGIL LAST NIGHT - A small crowd gathered outside CASA's headquarters Tuesday evening for their annual Candlelight Vigil honoring the vicims of child abuse and neglect. New CASA volunteers were sworn in by Judge John Fenn, who arrived after spending the day in District Court. He took a moment to discuss the CASA volunteers program, talking about their role: . In his opinion, Judge Fenn likens a good CASA volunteer to a good teacher, saying: . Has the judge had much experience working with them? . If you would be interested in becoming a CASA volunteer, call 672-0311.

GAME AND FISH OFFICIALS WERE CALLED IN TO EUTHANIZE A MOUNTAIN LION MONDAY IN BUFFALO - Wyoming Game and Fish officials made a trip to Buffalo Monday to take care of a problem that could have escalated into a serious situation. Game and Fish Information Specialist Warren Mischke describes what happened: . Warren says that officials tried to avoid putting the animal down, but in the end it was the only choice: . Mischke explains what should be done if you happen to come across a mountain lion: . Also, people should contact the Game and Fish department immediately if you spot a lion in a developed area. One final word of caution – never try handling the situation by yourself.

FORMER SHERIDAN FIREFIGHTER MARK HARTMAN IN SHERIDAN'S CIRCUIT COURT TODAY Former Sheridan Firefighter Mark Hartman, who was arrested and charged with stealing prescription medicine from the homes of residents while he was still employed by the City, will be in Sheridan's Circuit Court today for his initial appearance. The proceedings begin at 2.

IT WAS AN EMOTIONAL DAY ON THE WITNESS STAND MONDAY IN THE SHERIDAN DISTRICT COURT CIVIL CASE OF LAPP VS. HOT IRON / McCLELLEN & MacQUEEN - The second week of testimony in Lapp vs. Hot Iron Construction and counter defendants, McClellen & MacQueen found mother Shelli Lapp, daughter Kelsee Lapp, Kelsee's best friend, and Hot Iron owner Gary Garland take the witness stand. Shelli, who had begun her testimony late Friday afternoon, spent all morning on the stand yesterday. Her attorneys spent time having her recount the scene on the evening of September 24, 2003, when her daughter Kelsee left to cross Gladstone, then under construction, and fell into what the plaintiffs are claiming was an uncovered inlet box. Shelli also discussed the pain and suffering Kelsee has been enduring from a diagnosis of R.S.D., which affects deep tissue and nerves in Kelsee's right leg. The defense established that Hot Iron had weekly hand-delivered safety warnings and resident updates about the project. The defense also questioned how Shelli could have allowed her daughter to go out on a dark, torn-up street without a flashlight. After the lunch break, Kelsee's best friend took the stand. She had been on the phone with Kelsee as Kelsee made her way to the neighbor's. When asked to recount the night of the fall in the hole, the friend broke down, saying that she was “very scared” because of the silence and then hearing Kelsee screaming for her mother. She told the plaintiffs' attorneys that since the fall, she's “lost her best friend” because Kelsee became withdrawn and couldn't do any of the activities they'd enjoyed before. The defense noted that the friend, who is now sixteen, had not been so emotional during her deposition two weeks before, answering the same questions. The friend said that the courtroom made her nervous. Kelsee herself then took the stand and was very composed while recounting the night of her fall and the pain she's been experiencing since then. She broke down after defense attorney Kathleen Chaney questioned how Kelsee could have sustained injuries to the inside of her arms if the hole had been empty, implying that perhaps she'd broken through something – witnesses had testified earlier in the proceedings that two pieces of plywood were at the bottom of the hole. Kelsee could not recollect anything other than one minute she was walking and the next she was in a pit of some kind. Hot Iron owner Gary Garland finished the day's testimony. While acknowledging that his company ultimately had responsibility for the safe environment of the site, he does not feel responsible for the plaintiffs' claims of the R.S.D. or P.T.S.D. Court ran until just before 6 last night, with the Plaintiffs resting. Defense called their first witness today.

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSED CHILDCARE, RECYCLING AND ROADS AT LAST NIGHT'S MEETING - The hot topic on the agenda at last night's Sheridan City Council meeting was the proposal to create a joint powers board for a child care facility in Sheridan. As we've heard in recent weeks, the building for the child care facility would be paid for by a 3 million dollar grant the City has applied for, but would ultimately be run by a private contractor. It would also be open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Councilman O'Leary was one of two people who expressed outright opposition with going forward with this facility during last night's meeting. However, over an hour of testimony was heard from people supporting the facility—including Sheridan Chamber of Commerce Director Melissa Butcher: . Melissa and many other community leaders also expressed support for the facility, saying more local child care is vital for economic development in our community. The facility would also provide training and certification for child care providers; which would hopefully increase the overall number of local child care providers. Council also rejected an offer from the County to annex three roads. One road they rejected, Kittering Road, is not contiguous to City limits and the other two, Skeel Street and Higby Road, did not have accurate and complete documentation. Council decided to hold off on voting on a resolution on procedures for accepting county roads, and will give the County a few weeks to provide their input on the process. After going into executive session Council approved a sweetened deal for a contract with the local firefighters. Stay tuned because we will have more info on that later, as well as why some say more local recycling makes sense—dollars and cents, that is.

THE MERITAGE BURGLARY SUSPECT APPEARED IN COURT YESTERDAY - Desty Pyke appeared in Sheridan's Circuit Court yesterday afternoon on multiple charges, including several felonies. Desty allegedly attempted to burglarize Meritage, a wine-bar in Sheridan this weekend. Meritage's owner, Kelley Rhodes, found Pyke Friday evening in the room off the side of her office where her safe is kept. She attempted to hide from Rhodes, who attempted to detain Pyke and call for the police. However, Pyke pulled Rhodes' hair, attempted to trip her and to strike her with her knee. Pyke fled the scene, but police later located her. When the police detained Pyke, a small bag of marijuana was found on her possession. It was also later found that there are outstanding charges against her, including multiple forgery charges, which are felonies. The forgery charges are from 2006, where she allegedly altered several checks—one, for instance, was originally addressed to “WYCAN” and were altered to read “WYCAN for Desty Pyke.” The current charges against Pyke are: assault; possession of a controlled substance; two counts of forgery; and burglary. Both the forgery and burglary charges are punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years, and carry a potential fine of 10,000 dollars.

THE ENTRIES ARE IN FOR THE SHERIDAN COUNTY MUSEUM MASCOT NAMING CONTEST - Earlier this year, the staff at the Sheridan County Museum invited Sheridan County kids to name the new museum mouse mascot. Curator Nathan Doerr says that the response has been outstanding: . The next step in the naming process, Nathan tells us: . Of the over 200 entries, three semi-finalists will be chosen, and then the ultimate winning name will be announced at a special reception at the museum right before the May 1st season opening. Nathan reminds us the purpose of bringing a mascot into the museum: . Nathan will only have a couple weeks to then put those kid-oriented panels together. We'll certainly keep you posted as to the new name for the new mascot at the Sheridan County Museum.

SHERIDAN'S JAYCEES CHAPTER SHINES AT A RECENT CONVENTION - The statewide Jaycee Convention was held this weekend in Riverton, and many awards were handed out. How did our local Chapter fare? . That was Liz Reynolds, a local Jaycee who is now the State Management Vice President. So exactly how well did our local Chapter do? . And Liz certainly did not come home empty-handed: . That's great! But wait—what do the Jaycees do again? . If you want to learn more about what the Jaycees do or are interested in joining, visit the Sheridan Jaycee website at: www.sheridanjaycees.org

SHERIDAN COUNTY FULMER PUBLIC LIBRARY CELEBRATES NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK WITH A SLEW OF ACTIVITIES - It's National Library Week and the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library has a lot of activities throughout the week to celebrate the event. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more .

CENTER FOR A VITAL COMMUNITY TO HOST GLOBAL WARMING CAFE TONIGHT - The idea was taken from a model through the Empowerment Institute, and it will no doubt spark some good conversation on the topic of global warming. We're of course talking about the Center for a Vital Community's program tonight titled “Global Warming Cafe”. CVC Director Jenny Craft tell us about the format for the event: . The “Global Warming Cafe” will be tonight from 5:30 to 8:30 at Java Moon on Main Street in Sheridan. The event is free and open to the public, however the CVC is asking those that plan to attend to RSVP by calling the CVC at 307-674-6446 ext.4201.

CASA WILL HOST A CANDLE LIGHT VIGIL TONIGHT - CASA is acronym that stands for “Court Appointed Special Advocates.” Tonight CASAChapters all across America will be holding their annual Candle Light Vigil to honor and recognize victims of child abuse and neglect. Greta Maxfield, the Executive Director of Child Advocacy Services of the Big Horns, told us a little about what will be happening at the event: . CASA members are volunteers. Their goal is to serveas sort of an intermediary between a judge and a child, working to provide sound information to the judge about the domestic situation of the child. Greta also tells us how they plan to honor their volunteers. . The annual Light of Hope Candlelight Vigil will be held tonight at 429 West Alger, next to the Library at 5:15. For more information about CASA and services they provide, visit http://www.nationalcasa.org/

THE SHERIDAN DISTRICT COURT CIVIL LAWSUIT OF LAPP VS. HOT IRON CONSTRUCTION AND McCLELLEN & MacQUEEN ENDED THE FIRST WEEK OF TESTIMONY HEARING FROM EXPERTS ON R.S.D. - The first week of testimony in the Sheridan District Court civil case of Lapp vs. Hot Iron, Inc. and counter defendants McClellen and MacQueen, or M & M, concluded Friday with testimony from experts in the field of R.S.D. – Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy – and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or P.T.S.D. These are the two conditions the plaintiffs for Kelsee Lapp maintain she has developed because of the fall into an unbarricaded inlet box on the evening of September 24, 2003, during the Gladstone reconstruction project.Kelsee's attorneys, Kent Spence and Mary Alice McLarty brought forth R.S.D. expert Dr. C.M. Schade (shah-dah) of Texas and psychiatrist, Dr. Stratford of Missoula to confirm the claims that Kelsee has been suffering from both conditions since her accident.Defense attorney for M & M, Kathleen Chaney, spent a lot of time establishing that prior to her fall in the hole, Kelsee had a history of traumatic events in her family, and had been in two car accidents after her fall. Chaney queried whether those could have contributed to the R.S.D. or P.T.S.D. claims, but Dr. Stratford specifically stressed that it was the fall that triggered the P.T.S.D. Symptoms of R.S.D. include burning pain, extreme sensitivity to touch, skin color changes, joint pain, difficulty starting movement, and muscle spasms, just to name a few. Intriguing about R.S.D. is that the pain experienced is usually disproportionate to the degree of injury, and can be triggered by using the affected limb or by stress. It can be spontaneous or constant.Among the P.T.S.D. symptoms -- nightmares, insomnia, and depression.The case continues in Sheridan's District Court today.

MARATHON OIL WILL BE BRINGING A METH AWARENESS PRESENTATION TO THE SHERIDAN COLLEGE GOLDEN DOME TOMORROW NIGHT - Parents and employers, listen up! You've heard us report on numerous occasions the increasing methamphetamine use in the state. In a survey released last summer, it is the number one illegal drug abused in Wyoming. It is highly addictive, and getting off of it is very difficult. Several groups around the state have teamed up to try to combat the problem. The Sheridan County Prevention Coalition took one of those groups up on an offer to bring a special presentation to the community – Marathon Oil, which has an office in Sheridan. Spokesman Dave Searle tells us how the company came into the drug awareness business: . Dave says that after giving the presentation to employees and contractors, this is Marathon's third community presentation, having given them to about 500 people in Gillette and Cody combined. Has the company been surprised by anything since giving the presentations? . Dave tells us about the presenter for tomorrow night's event: . “Methamphetamines – A Blight On Society” will begin at 7 tomorrow night at the Sheridan College Golden Dome. It is free, and the entire community, including children, are welcome.

THE CONTROVERSIAL WILLOW PARK SUBDIVISION LOOKS LIKE IT WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL TABLE --- AGAIN - Sheridan City Council once again meets tonight. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love gives us a quick preview of the meeting: . If you can't drop by Sheridan City Council Chambers at 7 tonight, you can tune in to the meeting on AM 1410 KWYO.

CONSTRUCTION AT STORY FISH HATCHERY HAS BEEN DELAYED - Recently we reported that the Story Fish Hatchery would be closed this year and that closure was supposed to take place about this time. We've learned that the scenario has changed. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: .

THE WEEKLY POLL QUESTION WANTS TO KNOW YOUR OPINION ABOUT THE CITY – COUNTY FIRE AND AMBULANCE ISSUE - At the end of the last decade, the City and County consolidated fire and ambulance services with the thought that a lot of money would be saved in doing so. Since then, the City maintains, the numbers are showing a different picture and want the County to pay in more for the use of those services. Recently, the City rejected a non-negotiable proposal from the County, and it's looking like that consolidation will be dissolved. It prompted this week's poll question at Sheridan Media dot com: Do you agree with the decision to have the City and County provide separate ambulance services? . Let us know what you think. Answer the poll question on the Local News page, and check out the comment forum to see what other people's opinions are. Then be sure to tune during Open-Line Friday at 9 am to News Talk 930 KROE to hear the results.

TWO-DAY TOURISM CONFERENCE GETS UNDERWAY TODAY IN CASPER - National experts on tourism, hospitality, and leadership will highlight the Wyoming Governor's Hospitality and Tourism Conference today and tomorrow in Casper at the Parkway Plaza. Executive Director of the Wyoming Lodging and Restaurant Association, Lynn Burleffi, explains some of the seminars they'll have: . Lynn said that more than four hundred people in the hospitality and tourism industry from around the state will be on hand, along with exhibitors and a banquet tonight where they'll give out awards.

UW SEEKS TO END TUITION GUESSWORK - Some University of Wyoming officials say they want to take the guesswork out of tuition, which can increase sharply some years and not at all in others. They are proposing an automatic, three-year, three percent increase starting in 2008. Tuition has increased by an average of six percent a year over the past two decades. Proponents of the increases, including UW President Tom Buchanan, say they would cover inflationary costs while giving planners and students a more reliable forecast of costs and revenues. The proponents also say it's NOT wise for the university to rely as heavily as it does on appropriations from the Legislature. Opponents of the plan include Governor Freudenthal and some state lawmakers. They point out that the state has just put another 75 million dollars into UW's operations budget.

WYOMING OBSERVES HIV/AIDS AWARENESS WEEK THIS WEEK - Starting tomorrow and running through next Saturday, people at the University of Wyoming will be observing HIV/AIDS Awareness Week. And if you think Wyoming residents are immune from the disease, think again, says U-W Women's Studies Program Chair, Jessica Bryski, who is also in charge of the WyoAIDS Walk 2007:

. Bryski says that since its inception in 2001, WyoAIDS Walk has raised over 64-thousand dollars for Wyoming residents infected with HIV/AIDS. To learn more about the annual walk and other events planned through HIV/AIDS Awareness week, www.wyoaidswalk.org

LARAMIE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE PROFESSOR SAYS HATHAWAY SCHOLARSHIP REQUIREMENTS DRAWING AWAY STUDENTS - An instructor at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne says the state's new Hathaway Scholarship program could be responsible for a drop in students enrolling in engineering and physics classes there. Kevin Kilty teaches math, physics and engineering at the college. He says enrollment in his courses has dropped, as more freshmen have enrolled in programs at the University of Wyoming. Kilty praises the scholarship program, which went into effect last year. But he says he doesn't believe students understand that they would get the same amount of scholarship money if they attended one of the state's community colleges. Richard Schmidt is assistant dean at the U-W College of Engineering. He says the college experienced about a 19-percent increase in freshmen last fall when the scholarship went into effect. Officials say that more than 80 percent of the incoming freshmen at U-W received financial assistance from the scholarship program last fall. The program pays students up to 32-hundred dollars a year, depending on high school grades and test scores.

UNITED PLANS TO UPGRADE PLANES SERVING CASPER AIRPORT - Passengers who book flights at Natrona County International Airport will no longer run the risk of being left at the gate after United Airlines changes the type of airplane it uses there in June. Airport manager Glenn Januska says United Airlines plans to replace the 30-passenger airplanes it now uses between Casper and Denver with larger, 37-seat airplanes on June 7. With the old type of airplanes, Casper flights have sometimes been subject to weight restrictions, especially in warm weather. He says passengers who had booked flights were sometimes left behind to reduce weight. He says that with the new airplanes, it won't be necessary to reduce the number of passengers.
Once United Airlines introduces the new planes, it intends to reduce its number of flights between Casper and Denver from five to six daily.

“HAYDEN-HAYDEN, MOZART-MOZART” CONCERT IS THIS WEEKEND - This weekend is not short of local musical events—one of them being the Cloud Peak Symphony, which as playing at the Wyo Theater in Sheridan tonight. Violinist David Anderson tells us about the show: . And as far as the rest of the program: . Tickets are on sale at the WYO for the 11th Cloud Peak Symphony Concert which is tonight at 7. The show is five bucks for everyone over 18 and free for anyone under.

A WARM SPRING DAY AND THE FAMILIES WERE OUT IN FORCE AT THE 2ND ANNUAL F.A.S.T. SPRING CARNIVAL - The 2nd Annual F.A.S.T. Carnival took place yesterday at the Sheridan Jr. High School. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson caught some of the action:

. .Video of the FAST Spring Carnival

IT IS TAX SEASON AGAIN—AND SCAM SEASON, AS WELL - It is not only tax season again, but scam season. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the story:

ARE YOU READY TO JAM? - The local events leading to Earth Day are rolling along ... the global warming film series has been going on for a few weeks, and today there are a couple of community events as well. Tonight you will have a chance to tap your feet as an Earth Day musical event is happening in Sheridan. Local musician and event coordinator, Anne Schatz, tells us more:

. Five bucks will get you into this show, which is tonight at 7 at the Kalif Shrine. All the proceeds will go towards the paying for the event as well as to purchase a tree for Kendrick Park which will be planted on Earth Day. And Anne tells us, there are more than tunes to enjoy at this event:

. Again, the “Concert for the Earth and Miniature Earth Art Auction” is tonight at the Kalif Shrine Center in Sheridan at 7 pm.

TURKEY SEASON OPENS TODAY FOR OUR AREA - Spring turkey season opens today for Sheridan, Johnson, Campbell and Crook counties. Game and Fish Information Specialist Warren Mischke:

. Mischke also has an important safety tip for all hunters:

. Warren also said that turkey hunting is also a great opportunity to introduce first time hunters to the sport of hunting.

THERE'S GONNA' BE A WHOLE LOT OF BOWLING GOING ON—FOR KID'S SAKE - There is going to be a whole lot of bowling going on this Saturday...the annual Big Brothers, Big Sisters “Bowl for Kids Sake” is from 1 to 4 at Cloud Peak Lanes in Sheridan. Adam Fitch, with “Big Brothers, Big Sisters,” tells us more:

. Though it is too late to sign up to bowl, people are encouraged to stop by and learn a little more about “Big Brothers, Big Sisters” while listening to some music and watching the bowlers. Again, it is from 1 to 4 at Cloud Peak Lanes today. If you can't make it, but would like some more info about the “Big Brothers” program, contact Adam Fitch. His office is at the Whitney Building in Sheridan and his number is 673-0067 X 210

THE CONTROVERSIAL WILLOW PARK SUBDIVISION LOOKS LIKE IT WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL TABLE AGAIN - Sheridan City Council once again meets Monday night. And the first item on the agenda is looking to be something noton the agenda—for the second Council meeting in a row. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey:

. As you probably recall, there are multiple controversial aspects about annexing this land. Neighbors worry the development, which could follow the annexation, would taint the rural nature of the area; it also unearthed the question about who owns Absaroka Road. Those issues are put aside for the time being. However, there may be another debate about roads around the corner:

. You can also expect to hear some proponents of expanding local recycling as well as some developments about the proposed Child Care facility. If you can't drop by Sheridan City Council Chambers at 7 on Monday night, you can tune into the meeting on (our sister station) A-M 14-10, KWYO.

TESTIMONY FROM MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS WERE HEARD FOR THE PLAINTIFF'S SIDE IN THE LAPP VS. HOT IRON / McCLELLEN & MacQUEEN - Testimony continued Thursday at Sheridan's District Court, with the majority of the day seeing Dr. Jeannie Bowers, a Sheridan pediatrician, take the stand in the 3 million dollar civil lawsuit between Shelli and Kelsee Lapp and Hot Iron Construction / McClellen & MacQueen. On the evening of September 24th 2003, then 12-year-old Kelsee Lapp was crossing Gladstone, which was under heavy construction, when she fell into an open inlet box which was not barricaded. Sustaining injuries that included an approximately ten-inch deep abrasion toward the back of her upper right thigh, Kelsee began seeing Dr. Bowers for treatment. Although the surface of the injuries healed, leaving scars, Kelsee complained of deeper pain, and after about eleven months, Dr. Bowers suspected that Kelsee had developed Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy – or R.S.D. Also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, it is a trauma-induced pain that affects the nervous system. Kelsee's attorney, Kent Spence, had said the upon that suspicion, Dr. Bowers sent Kelsee to Billings to see a Dr. Grefe (greh-fee), who confirmed her suspicion. The plaintiffs said that Kelsee has since been under a number of different pain medications and physical therapy. Some of Dr. Bowers' observations were that Kelsee's current condition is highly functional and should not worsen over time, and that she is near complete recovery. Bowers also testified that a personal trainer, over a lifetime is far beyond any requirement for someone in reasonably good health. The testimony continues today in Sheridan's District Court.

HOW TO BE CONSISTENT IN GRANTING ACCESS TO LAKE DESMET WAS THE TALK AT LAST NIGHT'S MEETING - Lake Desmet Counties Coalition met last night, and one item on the agenda was an update on a study regarding regional water supply issues. HKM Engineer Dayton Alsaker, Coalition's Consultant for this study: . Some residents of Story expressed concern at the meeting they might be left out of such a water system, but Dayton says that wouldn't necessarily be the case: . The Commission also grappled with some ongoing issues regarding a couple of shoreline developments looking for access to the lake. Both Lake DeSmet Properties, LLC and Piney Creek Land Company were hoping to build boating ramps and/or floating docks on the lake by their properties. County Engineer Bruce Yates says, however, that any decision the Coalition makes will impact more than these individual developments: .The Coalition did not make any decisions on these issues last night, other than to seek legal council and discuss them further at the next meeting, which has not yet been scheduled.

BETTY STUTSMAN TURNS 100 YEARS OLD SUNDAY - While April 15th for most people means tax deadline time, it's birthday time for Betty Stutsman. And Betty will have a lot of candles on her cake – 100 of them, to be exact. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson tells us about the life of this remarkable woman: .

TODAY WE WRAP UP OUR SERIES ON “SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK IN WYOMING” WITH A LOOK AT PREPAREDNESS - Today we conclude our week long series on “Severe Weather Awareness Week in Wyoming” with a report on how preparedness is the best way to stay safe during severe weather. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: .

SHERIDAN COUNTY FAIR BOARD WILL CHIP IN 25 GRAND TO HELP WYO RODEO BOARD IN GETTING A NEW CROWS NEST FOR THE ARENA - The Sheridan County Fair Association Board of Trustees meeting last night covered many topics, such as approving a budget proposal that will be addressed at a meeting with the the County Commissioners next Wednesday. Other action from the meeting; Sheridan Wyo Rodeo board member Doug Meier explained to the Fair Board that they plan on having a new crows nest put in at the fairgrounds in time for this year's rodeo. Meier also stated that the rodeo board is prepared to front the entire cost of the project, which could range anywhere from fifty to eighty thousand dollars, but asked for the fair board's help in the amount of $25,000. After much discussion, the fair board elected to appropriate the funds to move forward with the project. Board President James Bohnsack: . Before the project can get started, soil samples are needed, and in an effort to save money, the fair board plans to use the samples that were taken before the new bleacher seating was installed. Another topic that was discussed was building a youth facility that would replace the current 4H building: . The facility is estimated to cost one million dollars, but board member Kathleen (shack-ter-lee) Schaechterle said that she'd have a more definitive number when the board meets with the County Commissioners next week. Also, the board awarded the bid to HKM Engineering to conduct a survey of the fairgrounds at a cost of no more than seventeen thousand dollars. However, Bohnsack stated that he'd spoken with former board member, Tom Ringley, and that Ringley had told him that HKM had done a utilities survey in 2003, which should bring the cost of this current survey down considerably: . The bid award to HKM was approved by the board with the stipulation that the company shall do only the survey work that is necessary, since the fairgrounds had already commissioned them for the aforementioned utilities survey in '03.

LEADERSHIP SHERIDAN COUNTY'S APRIL MODULE IS ALL ABOUT YOUTH - Leadership Sheridan County 2007 enjoyed their April module Thursday, and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson, who is also a participant, brings us the day's highlights: .

TESTIMONIES FROM HOT IRON CONSTRUCTION, McCLELLEN & MacQUEEN, AND DR. NOEKER TOOK UP DAY TWO OF CIVIL LAWSUIT - The second day of testimony for the plaintiffs in the Lapp vs. Hot Iron, Inc. and McClellen and MacQueen, or M & M, focused on three witnesses Wednesday.The night of September 24, 2003, then 12-year-old Kelsee Lapp had left her house to walk over to the neighbor's across the street, and in doing so, fell into an unmarked inlet box used for drainage. Her and her mother, Shelli's lead attorney, Kent Spence, spent Wednesday morning establishing a pattern that Hot Iron often did not fence off areas. Several witnesses the day before had testified that they'd had accidents riding bikes into or driving vehicles over unmarked holes.Key for the defendants yesterday – showing the jury detailed plans of the dimensions of the inlet box. Testimony from the day before had witnesses saying that the depth was anywhere from 6 to 9 feet deep. Hot Iron's superintendent, Larry Atkinson, said that was impossible – the inlet boxes are pre-cast by Wyoming Concrete Products, with a depth measuring 4 feet from the bottom of the box to the top of its frame. When installed in a hole, adding filler to make it level with the street, would give it a maximum depth of about 4 ½ feet. Spence had maintained that Kelsee, who was 5 feet, 3 inches at the time of the accident, was in the hole so far that her fingertips barely reached the rim. After viewing the drawing, Spence said that regardless, an open box of some depth could injure a child who fell into it, especially when it wasn't barricaded.Afternoon testimony was spent questioning Dr. Noeker (nay-ker), Kelsee's counselor, who stated that Kelsee first came to see her in 2005, and she's been working with her through depression and physical pain, although the counselor did indicate that her sessions have seen improvement in Kelsee. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a main focus of her work with the girl, who is now a high school student.The civil case continues today in Sheridan's District Court.

S.A.W.S. HEARS QUARTERLY BALANCE STATEMENT, HAS ONGOING DISCUSSION OF RATES, AND PLANS MEMBER INFORMATION MEETING - The Sheridan Area Water Supply Joint Powers Board, or S.A.W.S., met last night, and covered a variety of topics. The meeting began with a report from Steve Rucki co-owner of Rucki-Marshall CPA's. The county contracted with that firm last fall to begin putting together quarterly balance statements. SAWS Administrator, Jay Stender, tells us what the statement determined: . The Board also continued discussion on rate increases, ultimately determining that it is critical to hold a couple informational meetings for the 15-hundred 42 SAWS members around Sheridan County: . Two informational meetings are tentatively scheduled for Wednesday evening, April 18th from 5:30 to 7 and Saturday morning, April 28th from 9:30 to noon. The place is yet to be determined, but we'll update you as plans are finalized. Finally from the SAWS meeting, HKM Engineer, Dayton Alsaker, gives an update on the status of the 20-inch water pipeline going in along Big Goose: . The project is currently holed up at just east of the Griffith Youth Camp on Big Goose Road west of Sheridan.

SEVERE WEATHER WEEK IN WYOMING CONTINUES WITH A LOOK AT THE DANGERS OF FLOODS - Today in our “Severe Weather Awareness Week in Wyoming” series, we learn about the dangers of floods. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: .

IT SEEMS LIKE THE WHOLE WORLD IS GOING DIGITAL. ARE THE CENTENNIAL THEATERS IN SHERIDAN NEXT? Earlier this week, the L.A. Times ran an article on the ever-growing business of digital cinemas. One of the movie theater owners they interviewed was Sheridan's Bill Campbell, who owns Centennial Theaters. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter spoke with Campbell about the future of theaters: .

ENROLLMENT BEGINS THIS WEEKEND AT THE SHERIDAN COUNTY Y.M.C.A. FOR SUMMER SCIENCE CAMPS - Does your child love the outdoors? Does your child have an affinity for science? If you answer “yes” to one or both of those questions, listen up! The Sheridan County YMCA is adding a new camp to their summer roster, and spokesperson Sarah Mentock has the particulars: .Thorne Natural Science School is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, under the umbrella of the 65-year-old Thorne Ecological Institute, which was founded by Mentock's father. Their goal has been to connect kids to nature, with studies showing that getting outside increases a child's motivation and problem-solving skills. Mentock outlines the cost of the program: . The day camps run from 9 am to noon, with three sessions available: “Hands-On Nature”, for 6 to 8-year-olds; “Aquatic Adventure”, for 8 to 10-year-olds; and “Bug Out”, for 10 to 12-year-olds. The camps will run consecutively, Monday to Friday each of the last three weeks of June. Sign-ups for YMCA members begin Saturday from noon until 2. Community members can then sign up on April 23rd at the Y's front desk. Each camp can take 12 kids, so sign up early. For more information, call the YMCA: 674-7488 or Sarah Mentock: 672-2014

GET READY, FAMILIES! THE 2ND ANNUAL F.A.S.T. CARNIVAL GETS UNDERWAY SATURDAY - Another weekend approaches, and with it, a really fun family time is slated for the Sheridan Junior High School. Pam Rucki is the director of Sheridan's Families And Schools Together chapter, and they're hosting a unique fund raiser Saturday: .Because it is a fund raiser, Pam explains, carnival patrons will have a few different ways to contribute, while at the same time enjoying themselves and filling their hungry bellies: . Pam says a lunch of hotdogs, chips and drinks will cost a buck 50. BUT! If you purchase the good-for-all-day wristband, lunch is free. So, Pam, will the whole family really enjoy themselves? . The F.A.S.T. Carnival action runs most of the day this Saturday, from 10 until 3, at the Sheridan Jr. High School new gym.

LEGISLATION IN THE WORKS TO BRING F.A.S.T. PROGRAM TO MORE COMMUNITIES IN THE STATE - The F.A.S.T. Program is about far more than just carnivals. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the story: .

DISTRICT COURT TRIAL REPORT FROM DAY ONE OF TESTIMONY – THE PLAINTIFF'S OPENING STATEMENTS - Opening statements and five witnesses for the plaintiff's side took up the first day of the Sheridan District Court civil lawsuit between Shelli and Kelsee Lapp and Hot Iron Construction, Inc. Counter-defendants in the 3 million dollar suit are McClellan and MacQueen, Inc. Attorney Kent Spence began the day by outlining who the 13-person jury, made up of ten men and three women, would hear for their side. He painted a picture of then-12-year-old Kelsee, who, on the night of Wednesday, September 24th, 2003, was heading across the street, and fell into an unmarked inlet box on Gladstone, which was under a major City of Sheridan construction project at the time. Prior to that moment, Spence told the jury, Kelsee had been a happy girl, making good grades, enjoying time with her friends. Since the fall into the hole, Spence maintains, she has had a life of pain and depression, for which she's needed various medications and physical therapy. Spence said that over the course of the trial, he would bring in medical experts showing how, even though Kelsee's initial injuries seemed to be deep abrasions and scrapes along her upper right thigh, right arm, and lower right back, over time, the pain had deepened. It took eleven month, Spence said, but doctors finally diagnosed Kelsee as having R.S.D., also known as C.R.P.S. -- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome – a trauma-induced pain that affects the nervous system. He said that presently, Kelsee is “maintaining”, has flare-ups twice a week, which she treats with medication and aquatherapy. “She just wants to be normal,” Spence said. Spence would bring in witness who testified of other accidents that happened because of unmarked holes in the street. He concluded his opening statements by saying that had Hot Iron barricaded the hole properly, Kelsee would have a normal life today.

DISTRICT COURT TRIAL REPORT FROM DAY ONE OF TESTIMONY – OPENING STATEMENTS FROM THE DEFENSE - The opening statements in the 3-million dollar civil lawsuit of Lapp vs. Hot Iron Construction / and counter-defendants McClellen and MacQueen continued Tuesday morning with Hot Iron's attorney, Rex Arney, coming to the podium. Arney explained that Hot Iron had been contracted by the City to install infrastructure on Gladstone, and then grade and pave it. Hot Iron sub-contracted with McClellen and MacQueen, or M & M, to do sidewalk, curb and gutter concrete work along the street. Arney outlined important evidence for the defense, saying that throughout the project, which had begun four months earlier, there had been constant interaction between safety representatives who kept the Gladstone residents updated on aspects of the project which would impact them at any given time, such as having their water temporarily shut off. Arney pointed out that the the street in front of the Lapp's home had been torn up for some time prior to Kelsee's fall. Kelsee had gone out of the house that September night carrying an algebra book in one hand – she was headed to her neighbor's to help with a math assignment; in her other hand, a cell phone, on which she was talking to her best friend. It was nearly dark, there were no street lights, and she didn't have a flashlight. Arney raised the question of Mrs. Lapp's responsibility of allowing her child to go outside under those conditions. He acknowledged Kelsee's injuries, yet told the jury that after treatment and physical therapy, she had made progress to the point where her physical therapist released her. Arney said Kelsee's medical expenses have totaled 11-thousand 672 dollars since the accident, and questioned the plaintiff's side asking for 3 million. Attorney's for M & M argue they have no responsibility in the accident, as it was Hot Iron's agreement to barricade the open inlet boxes while the concrete set. The remainder of the morning and all afternoon Tuesday was spent questioning five witnesses for the plaintiffs, with the majority of the focus on differing testimony as to the depth of the inlet box. Day 2 of Lapp vs. Hot Iron / M & M continues today in Sheridan's District Court.

DISTRICT 1 BOARD OF TRUSTEES HONOR STUDENTS AND FACULTY - A full District 1 Board of Trustees meeting last night, with acknowledgments to kick things off, beginning with the Tongue River High School girls' basketball team, says Superintendent, Sue Belish . Other tributes were to 22-year head cook Wilma Bomar, who is retiring, and a special moment honoring the memory of teacher Jenny Robison, who lost her battle to cancer last month: . The tributes didn't stop there – Sue says that despite being stranded in Buffalo during the big snowstorm, two standout Tongue River students accomplished a major feat with the state convention of FCCLA: . Belish indicated that in the spirit of making lemonade out of lemons, the stranded students made the best of their situation by keeping busy in Buffalo.Other District news – Tongue River High School has made it through the 35 percent engineering process, and they're trying to get site work plans done so they can bid them separately. On the Big Horn side, they'll be getting into the design phase.The board heard interest-based recommendations for any additional revenue used for salaries and benefits; they will put out a request for proposal for a construction manager at risk that best fits the district's needs. And after executive session, the board approved a list of staff renewals for the next school year.

WE CONTINUE OUR SERIES ON SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK IN WYOMING TODAY WITH A LOOK AT TORNADOES - Today we continue our series on “Severe Weather Awareness Week in Wyoming” with one of the most devastating and unpredictable weather occurrences known to mankind ... tornadoes. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more: .

WE CONCLUDE OUR SERIES HONORING TELECOMMUNICATION OPERATORS WEEK - In her last of a series celebrating the dedication of telecommunication operators in Sheridan as part of National Telecommunication Operators Week, Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson looks at what goes in to making the grade: .

WE'VE GOT THE LATEST NUMBERS ON THE SHERIDAN COUNTY SNOW PACK REPORT FOR YOU - The latest numbers are out for Sheridan County's snow pack, and as of April 1st things are looking a lot better, thanks in part to the big snow storm we had in late March. Soil Conservationist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Sheridan, Brad Holliday, says the Tongue River drainage is faring well as far as: . That's a hundred percent of normal snow pack. Holliday gives us the percentages for the Clear Creek drainage: . Some have expressed concerns about flooding with such a large amount of snow in a short period of time, but conditions just before the storm helped immensely:04-11-26. Total precipitation at the mountain snotel sites for the entire Powder/Tongue Basin since October 1st of 2006 is at 101% of normal.

CITY PLANNING COMMISSION TAKES A LOOK AT PROPERTY NEAR THE NEW ROCKWELL PETROLEUM CONSTRUCTION PROJECT - The Sheridan City Planning Commission met last night and City Planner Robert Briggs tells us: . Some of the Commission's concerns – they want more information regarding the intersection at Mydland Road and Long Drive, in terms of traffic, four-way stops, etc. Other topics? . Briggs said the meeting was a short one; the next City Planning Commission meets on Monday, April 23rd.

DAY-LONG JURY SELECTION PROCESS IN MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR CIVIL CASE – OPENING ARGUMENTS BEGIN THIS MORNING - It took 4 ½ hours of questioning and 1 ½ hours to sift through the jury pool, but the jury in the civil case of Lapp vs. Hot Iron Construction and McClellan & MacQueen, Inc. were finally chosen in Sheridan's District Court by day's end Monday. Normally civil cases use six jurors, but this case will have twelve, with one alternate. The case revolves around Shelli Lapp and her daughter, Kelsee, who is a minor. On an evening back in September, 2003, when Kelsee was 12, she was crossing Gladstone Street to visit a friend, when she fell into an open hole that was approximately 3 ½ feet wide by 6 to 7 feet deep. Hot Iron was the construction company working on the Gladstone project, and at the heart of the case is whether or not the area in question was indeed open, and if it had been cordoned off. The principal lawyer for the plaintiffs, the Lapps, is Kent Spence – you might recognize the last name; he's the son of famed trial attorney Jerry Spence, a point made often during the jury selection process. For the defendant, Rex Arney will serve as lead, in a trial expected to last seven days. This case could involve millions of dollars, and Judge John Fenn cautioned the jurors not to let any dollar amounts sway their weighing of the case, since in most civil cases, justice is oftentimes served best by one side being awarded money. This is the second multi-day District Court jury trial in less than 30 days. Opening statements began this morning.

SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 BOARD OF TRUSTEES HEAR FROM CONCERNED STORY PARENTS - At last night's Sheridan School District 2 regular board meeting, two Ft. MacKenzie High School students were acknowledged for their two-week work as pages for the senate during this past Wyoming Legislative Session. Sisters Ashleigh and Natasha Avey said the learned a lot about the legislative process, and encourage other students to take the opportunity. The board approved the board meeting schedule and calendar for the 2007-2008 school year, as well as the '06-'07 board goals, membership renewal to the National School Boards Association, and membership renewal to the Wyoming School Board Association. Also approved – Health and Dental Insurance for the '07 – '08 school year and memorial fund scholarship recommendations for '07 – '08. Approved with one abstention was a request to advertise to bid summer 2007 projects at several schools in the district. Denied was a request from Superintendent Sue Belish on behalf of School District 1 asking District 2 to allow a District 1 bus to pick up two students who live in Wolf Creek – technically District 2 – to take them to school in Dayton. Board member Dave Debolt: . Debolt says that more conversation between the two districts should bring about a workable solution. The main crux of last night's meeting centered around the concerns of the Story Elementary School P.T.O. Spokesman Nathan Salo . Salo said the parents also would like more involvement and communication from the district administration, and care put into the facility. Finally, it's Kindergarten registration time, says Assistant Superintendent, Tom Sachse: ...The next District 2 board meeting will be held May 21st.

SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK...PART TWO IN OUR WEEKLONG SERIES LOOKS AT EMERGENCY RADIOS - It's “Severe Weather Awareness Week” in Wyoming, and we continue our week-long series with a look at a device that can save lives during a weather emergency. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: .

IN PART 2 OF OUR SERIES HONORING TELECOMMUNICATION OPERATORS' WEEK, WE VISIT SHERIDAN'S DISPATCH CENTER - As we reported yesterday, this is National Telecommunication Operators Week. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has part 2 in a series: . Call Jenifer Shassetz, Kim Madden or Shannon Rankin at 672-5609 to arrange a an officer ride-along or sit-in with dispatch.Video of the Telecommunications Operations Center

SHERIDAN TRAVEL AND TOURISM – SNOW WYOMING! Sheridan Travel and Tourism is ecstatic about all the snow we've received, because it's been bringing snowmobile enthusiasts here from around the country. Director Penny Becker says: 04-10-01. Adding to the snow itself – an inventive ad called “Old West to Snow West,” in which two people on horseback are standing on the crest of a snow-capped ridge. When they jump off the edge, they magically transform into riders on snowmobiles: . Bear Lodge is one of the establishments in the Big Horns that is ready to welcome the winter visitors: . Penny wants to remind locals that you, too, can join in the snow time fun on the million acres of fresh powder. And to view the “Old West to Snow West” ad, visit www.sheridanwyoming.org

BLM'S PLAN TO ADD FOUR THOUSAND NEW GAS WELLS HAS SOME CONCERNED OVER AIR QUALITY - Critics feel that some pieces to the puzzle are missing regarding the Bureau of Land Management's plan to bump up gas wells to nine times the current number in the Upper Green River Valley. In particular is the negative effect it will have on wildlife in the area. Air Quality Consultant with the Environmental Protection Agency, Megan Williams, comments on the BLM adding more than four-thousand additional gas wells: . Dr. William Alldredge is a Wildlife Biologist who has been studying the “Upper Green” since the 1970's. He says the public needs to realize rehabilitation to the area is not immediate, and that animals will start to disappear: . Over the past five years, the Upper Green River Valley has experienced a fifty percent decline in mule deer population, something which Alldredge attributes to previous drilling activity.

ANOTHER TRAGEDY HITS CLOSE TO HOME LATE FRIDAY NIGHT - A former Sheridan resident is dead after a rollover accident late Friday night at mile marker 31, near the Meade Creek exit. 25-year-old Jennifer Jordan, who was living in Casper at the time of the accident, was a passenger in a 1992 Chevy van, driven by 33-year-old Myra A. Johnson of Evansville.A report from the Wyoming Highway Patrol states that Johnson had been traveling eastbound on I-90, traveling on icy and snowy roads, She was in the driving lane when she lost control of the van, which fishtailed and then spun as it left the roadway on the south side. The van went down an embankment, where it then rolled one time. Neither Johnson nor Jordan were wearing their seatbelts, and both were ejected from the vehicle during the rollover.Adding to the horror of the accident – Johnson's 4-month-old son was ejected from his car seat, but stayed in the vehicle. While the baby had been placed in a car seat, it had been incorrectly installed. Miraculously, the infant survived the crash. Both Johnson and her son were transported by ground ambulance to Sheridan's Memorial Hospital, and later air lifted to St. Vincent's Hospital in Billings.A fund is pending for the cost of funeral services for Jennifer Jordan, and we will bring that information to you as soon as possible.

THIS WEEK IS SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK IN WYOMING - This week is “Severe Weather Awareness Week” in Wyoming. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter will be bringing daily highlights, beginning today with a look at thunderstorms: .

THE NEXT IN THE SCIENCE SERIES AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE TAKES PLACE WEDNESDAY - We've been telling you about the varied series taking place at the Mohns Science Center at Sheridan College, and the next one is this Wednesday. Presenter Roger Wilson describes his program: . Wilson, who is a retired Game and Fish biologist and coordinator, says that after retirement, he spent two summers as an interpretive ranger: . Roger will be showing 160 slides of “The Water Wonderland of Yellowstone”. The 45-minute free public program begins at 7 this Wednesday, at the Mohns Science Center on the Sheridan College Campus. And by the way – because of the snowstorm last week, Bernie Bornong's program on beetle infestation has been rescheduled for April 18th.

THIS IS NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS OPERATORS WEEK - They're often the unsung heroes of an emergency – the men and women who man the phone lines in the dispatch centers around the country, getting assistance to those in need. As part of National Telecommunication Operators Week, we will be highlighting the work of these dedicated people with a series of reports. Jenifer Shassetz is with the Sheridan Police Department, and she defines the term “Telecommunications Operator”: .The agencies dispatchers cover include the City of Sheridan Police Department, the Sheridan County Sheriff's office, the Game and Fish department, emergency services at Sheridan College and the V.A. Medical Center, Sheridan County Search and Rescue, and emergency agencies in Ranchester, Dayton, Big Horn and Clearmont. Kim Madden is one of the lead dispatchers, and she outlines how a call is handled, particularly when it's a very busy shift:. A kind of telephone triage, if you will. In observance of this week honoring the operators, Jenifer talks about some events taking place at Sheridan's police station: . Tomorrow we'll take you into the dispatch center, as we highlight Telecommunication Operator's Week.

HOW'D WE DO? SHERIDAN MEDIA GETS PUT TO THE TEST FOR THIS WEEK'S POLL QUESTION - In an effort to continually improve our services to our listeners and to the emergency agencies out there who need us to inform the public, we've put ourselves to the test for this week's poll question: How would you rate Sheridan Media's coverage and updates during the big snowstorm? . The ratings from which to choose are Excellent; Good; Fair; and Poor, but more importantly, we welcome suggestions of how we can improve.

SKEETER JOHNSTON REMEMBERED DURING THE STANFORD U.S. OPEN POLO MATCH SUNDAY - The polo match played on, but the mood was somber, as the Skeeterville players competed against Las Monjitas this weekend in Wellington, Florida, losing to the opponent 9 to 8 in the Stanford U.S. Open games. The team was named after their sponsor and fellow player Skeeter Johnston, part-time Big Horn resident who died last week as a result of a tragic accident during polo practice, where he and his horse collided with another horse and rider. Skeeterville players wore Johnston's No. 1 on their red jerseys and black armbands. Johnston's spot in the lineup was filled by 18-year-old groom Kayln Marsh of Sheridan. During the afternoon stadium game, a riderless ceremony was held with Johnston's favorite 11-year-old bay mare, Raba. A memorial service for 53-year-old Skeeter Johnston is scheduled for noon tomorrow at the family's Everglades farm. Contributions may be sent to the Polo training Foundation, 70 Clinton St., Tully, NY 13159 or the charity of the donor's choice.

SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK IN WYOMING KICKS OFF TOMORROW - Tomorrow is the beginning of “National Weather Awareness Week” here in Wyoming, and Warning Coordination Meteorologist Tom Frieders with the National Weather Service in Billings explains the week is all about educating the public: . Make sure to join us starting tomorrow, when we'll have a week-long series that will take a look at different types of severe weather and what can be done to try and avoid their dangers.

AND THEY'RE OFF! THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF THE GIANT EASTER EGG HUNT -It felt much more like mid-December than early April, with 15 mile-an-hour winds and 25 degree temps, but did that keep hundreds of kids from gathering up thousands of eggs at the 4th Annual Giant Easter Egg Hunt Saturday afternoon? No way! Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the story: . Video from the Sagebrush Elementary Easter Egg Hunt

ANNUAL CITYWIDE AUCTION FOUND THE SERVICE CENTER FILLED WITH UNIQUE ITEMS -A week's postponement because of the snow didn't stop throngs of people from coming to the annual Citywide Auction, held Saturday at the City of Sheridan Service Center. Each year, old equipment from the various city departments, along with unclaimed stolen items from the police department, are put on the block, and Kobold Auctioneers get to work. Among the items up for bid, over 70 bikes. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson saw Patrick Henderson and two of his children, Matt and Grace looking over the sea of spokes and handlebars, with Matt particularly interested in the view before him: . Matt's estimate was pretty close – he scored a bike for 26 dollars and 50 cents. Also attending the auction, Sheridan School District 2 music teacher, Saralee Garber, who came away with one of the more intriguing items of the day: . The total amount raised from yesterday's auction won't be available for a couple weeks, but after expenses, that money will be put back into the City's general fund.Video from the City Auction

GOVERNOR DAVE AND FIRST LADY NANCY FREUDENTHAL HOSTED THE CHAMPIONSHIP U-W WOMENS BASKETBALL TEAM FOR DINNER -Gov. Dave Freudenthal and First Lady Nancy Freudenthal hosted the University of Wyoming women's basketball team and its coaches at a dinner at the residence this past week. The Cowgirls won the Women's National Invitation Tournament Championship before a sellout crowd in Laramie on March 31st. Before the dinner, Coach Joe Legerski presented the Freudenthal with the game ball from the tournament, signed by all of the players and coaches. The governor remarked that the team's win was an inspiration to the state as a whole, and to young women in particular, impressive not only because of their success on the court, but also because of the manner in which they achieved that success.

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SETS NEW TOLL-FREE NUMBER -As part of ongoing efforts to improve services for state residents, the Wyoming Department of Health has established a new toll-free number. Dr. Brent Sherard, the department's director, said that they offer a wide variety of helpful programs, services and information, and they want to make it simple for people all around Wyoming to reach the department. There will be no cost to dial the new number, which is answered in the director's office. Callers will be transferred to the most appropriate person or program to accommodate their inquiry. New Department of Health Toll-Free Number: 1-866-571-0944

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL UNANIMOUSLY OPPOSES COUNTY'S FIRE-AMBULANCE PROPOSAL -The Sheridan City Council held a specially-called meeting late Friday afternoon, with all members except Tom O'Leary and Mark Ketchem present. Ketchem excused himself from the vote, since he is part owner of Rocky Mountain Ambulance. The Council had asked the County Fire District Board to bring a proposal to the table for a fair agreement of fire and ambulance service. Taking us back to when the fire consolidation was put together in 1999, Councilman Scott Severs, who was on the Council at that time, explains: . The County this week offered to pay 200-thousand dollars for ambulance service and 150-thousand dollars a year for fire protection, both annual amounts for two years. Severs' take? . After about twenty minutes of discussion, the vote was cast, with a very unanimous, loud “NO!” to accepting the county's proposal. Mayor Dave Kinskey says: . More important to the mayor is that things don't get overheated, and spent most of Friday talking with commissioners and members of the Fire District Board. And because the city council opposed the proposal, which, by the way, was non-negotiable, it looks like dissolution of the consolidation is inevitable: . In the end, the mayor says, the council will make sure that there is good fire and ambulance service for the city, and the county is going to make sure that there is good fire and ambulance service for county residents, by whatever means works out the best.

CITY OF SHERIDAN HOLDS THEIR ANNUAL CITY-WIDE AUCTION TODAY -Originally scheduled for last Saturday, the City of Sheridan's Citywide Auction was moved to today because so many of the street crews were needed to continue plowing efforts after the big snow storm. Each year, the city puts up for bid the myriad of bicycles that were abandoned and picked up by the police department. There are also items such as used furniture, computers, and other pieces of equipment that the city employees no longer use. Location for the Citywide Auction is at the City Service Center, located on KROE Lane, just west of the I-90 overpass, beginning at 10 this morning.

STUDY RECOMMENDS WAYS TO RESOLVE HEALTH INFORMATION SECURITY ISSUES -Rural health issues are in the news, as recommendations discussed during a recent workshop in Casper reveal results from a year-long study of security issues in health information. Rex Gantenbein is the director for the Center for Rural Health Research and Education at the UW College of Health Sciences. He tells us what the study suggested: . Gantenbein says the workshop attendees also proposed solutions that would develop a policy research and coordinating center, establish a health information governance structure, and support for a demonstration project in health information exchange. Click here to view details on the recommendations and other information.

MASTER'S COMMISSION AND SHERIDAN MEDIA SPONSOR THE 4TH ANNUAL GIANT EASTER EGG HUNT -A little snow on the ground is not going to stop what if becoming a much anticipated tradition from happening today at Sagebrush Elementary School. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the story: .

MOTHER OF WYOMING'S U.S. SENATOR MIKE ENZI AND SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 BUSINESS MANAGER MARILYN KOESTER LAID TO REST TODAY -The Presbyterian Church will be [was] the location today for the funeral of Dorothy Enzi, longtime Sheridan resident and businesswoman, who also is mother to U.S. Senator Mike Enzi and Sheridan School District 2 Business Manager, Marilyn Koester. Commenting on Mrs. Enzi's passing, in a visit to Sheridan Media earlier this week, U.S. Senator Craig Thomas said: . Dorothy and Elmer Enzi moved to Sheridan in 1952, where they opened N-Z Shoe Store, opening subsequent stores in Casper, Gillette, and Miles City, Montana. Among her many achievements, Dorothy Enzi was the first woman president of the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce; she was director of the National Miss Indian America Pageant for 12 years; she served as an Elder and Sunday School superintendent for the First Presbyterian Church; and was selected Wyoming Mother of the Year in 1998.

CITY OF SHERIDAN ANNOUNCES NEW BUILDING OFFICIAL -News out of Sheridan's Building Department Friday, Director of Human Resources Heather Doke with the announcement: .
Newcomer replaces Clark Johnson who will now be working as a Building Inspector for the City, a new position recently approved by City Council: . As far as the new Building Official himself, Charlie says one thing is sure, he'll be keeping busy: . Doke said that applicants from all over the country were interviewed for the position, but as it turned out the top candidate was already working for the City.

CITY OF SHERIDAN ANNOUNCES NEW BUILDING OFFICIAL - News out of Sheridan's Building Department today, Director of Human Resources Heather Doke with the announcement: .Newcomer replaces Clark Johnson who will now be working as a Building Inspector for the City: . Doke said that applicants from all over the country were interviewed for the position but as it turned out the top candidate was already working for the City. As far as the new Building Official himself, Charlie says one thing is sure, he'll be keeping busy: . The Building Inspector position that Johnson has taken is a new position that was recently approved by City Council

POLO'S SKEETER JOHNSTON DIES AS A RESULT OF ACCIDENT - Conflicting reports have now been confirmed – 53-year-old S.K. “Skeeter” Johnston III, son of “Skee” Johnston, died yesterday in the Delray, Florida Medical Center. He had co-founded the recently formed North American Polo League, and was principal partner in the new Flying H Polo Club in Big Horn. The younger Johnston was fatally injured Wednesday morning on the family polo field in Wellington, Florida. He had been preparing for the 2007 Stanford U.S. Open championships at the International Polo Club. Reports from the Palm Beach Daily News state the Johnston's horse stumbled following contact with another horse and went down. The horse rolled over on top of Johnston, with Johnston sustaining multiple fractures, head trauma and internal bleeding. He was airlifted to Delray Beach within 30 minutes of the accident and taken in to surgery within the hour. After remaining in a coma for several hours, he was removed from life support Thursday. A former vice-president of Coca-Cola Enterprises, Skeeter Johnston spent more than 27 years in the industry. He graduated from Eckerd College, was a board member of the Krystal Company, MetelTek Internationals, Inc. and e-Skye Solutions, Inc. Skeeter Johnston is survived by his wife, Leslie and one daughter, Louisa. A memorial service and funeral are pending.

SHERIDAN COUNTY OPENS AN EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER – EARLY - Did you know that Sheridan County has an Emergency Operations Center? Well, you were going to know with certainty about two weeks from now, but last week's snow storm that moved through the area necessitated its own “grand opening” of sorts. It was in that location – a large room in the basement of the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office – where members of law enforcement, emergency management, highway patrol, WyDOT, Search and Rescue, the county's Fire District, town leaders, dispatch, community health, the forest service and the media gathered to discuss each group's storm experience, what worked in battling it, and what didn't. Ryan Mulhullond is a deputy with the sheriff's office. But last week, he did double duty as the Incident Commander of the EOC. He outlines the purpose of Thursday's de-briefing: . Were there any startling revelations, in his opinion? . Deputy Mulhullond describes how the EOC is set up: .The center is funded in part with money from our allotment of Homeland Security funding, and it can be used by anyone. We will have more about the new Emergency Operations Center in the coming weeks.

NAMING NAMES – WHAT IS APPROPRIATE IN COVERING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT CASES - For three days this week, the Sheridan Holiday Inn was the location for the Domestic Violence / Sexual Assault Awareness conference, and amid the roster of speakers was Judy Benitez, the Executive Director of the Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault. She gave several talks about the role media plays on how society perceives stories of sexual violence. Her interest in the subject is significant, because prior to her director position, Judy was a newspaper reporter. How did she go from one career to the other? . Benitez comments on a tendency of society: . She says another common phrase – why doesn't a woman “just leave” a domestic violence situation, instead of “what are the barriers that are preventing her (and in some cases, him) from leaving?” Another area Benitez addressed – and one that was much more gray than black and white – what is and isn't appropriate for the media to put on the front page or broadcast to the masses: . There's no easy answer, yet, Judy says, it's still important to de-stigmatize the subject, to take the blame off the victim and to put it on the perpetrator, and to not trivialize the less-sensational everyday acts of violence against people, especially women.

WYOMING GAME AND FISH SAYS THEY'RE READY TO MANAGE GRIZZLIES IN YELLOWSTONE AREA - Late last month the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service removed the Yellowstone Grizzly bear population from its status as threatened on the federal list of threatened and endangered species. Wyoming Game and Fish Director, Terry Cleveland, says the agency is and has been ready to assume full management of the grizzly population: . In 1975 when the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service enlisted the grizzly on the threatened list, there were approximately two hundred in the Yellowstone area, today that same area boasts an estimated five hundred of the animals.

WYOMING SEES LOWEST UNEMPLOYMENT IN ALMOST THIRTY YEARS - The Wyoming Department of Employment has just released the February unemployment rate at 2.3 percent, which is the lowest rate the state has seen since 1979. Director of the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, Joan Evans, comments on the unemployment rate continuing to get lower: . Evans said that over the past year Wyoming has created nearly eleven-thousand jobs,with the largest number of those jobs being in the construction and mining industries. Platte County posted the highest unemployment rate at 4.7, while Teton County had the lowest with 2.2. Meanwhile, Sheridan County is pretty much in the middle of the pack, with an unemployment rate for February of 3.8.

AN ART SHOW FULL OF WHIMSEY AND IMAGINATION IS NOW ON DISPLAY AT THE BRADFORD BRINTON GALLERY - Despite the white stuff on the ground, it is spring, and that means that the Art Gallery on the grounds of the Bradford Brinton is now open. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the description for you:. Video from Bradford Brinton Museum, James Warhola Exhibit

WHO KNEW THAT BUYING WINE WOULD HELP PUPPIES? - Wine lovers who also love dogs will love this story. Amid the hundreds of bottles at Brundage Street Wines, all day today and tomorrow, there will be specially-labeled bottles with a decidedly canine slant to them, along with gourmet doggie treats. The reason? Sheridan Animal Shelter Director, Cel Hope, explains: Why the need for a puppy nursery? . Warm your insides with good wine – canine label – at Sheridan's Brundage Street Wine today and tomorrow, helping to reach the June 30th grant goal for a puppy nursery at the animal shelter.

THE STATE LAND AND INVESTMENT BOARD AWARDS SHERIDAN COUNTY A GOOD CHUNK OF CHANGE FOR IMPACT FUNDING - A phone call from Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey this afternoon brought us this word from the State Land and Investment Board meeting: . Mayor Kinskey describes how it all played out: .The monies will go toward the list of CBM projects that the City of Sheridan, Sheridan County, Dayton, Ranchester and Clearmont have identified as priority projects. To clarify, the mayor says it is the 8 impacted counties that receive the $735,000: . Great news for Sheridan County and the people living within her borders.

SAWS BOARD HOLDS WORKSHOP TO DISCUSS RATE INCREASES - The Sheridan Area Water Supply Joint Powers Board or SAWS held a workshop Wednesday afternoon to discuss rate increases. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: .

SHERIDAN'S MEMORIAL HOSPITAL BOARD MET FOR THEIR MARCH MEETING ON APRIL 4TH - Originally scheduled for last Wednesday, a little snowstorm necessitated the postponement of the March Memorial Hospital Board meeting to last night. The hospital had moved into a “Code Gray” last week, indicating a weather emergency, and CEO Mike McCafferty praised the staff and doctors who went the extra mile to keep the hospital running: . McCafferty says they never lost power, had plentiful supplies of coal, diesel, and food. February was another strong month numbers-wise, and the board last night approved two capital expenditures. Chief Financial Officer Ed Johlman: . The anesthesia monitor will cost $33,000 and the colonoscope will cost $29,000. The board spent some time discussing, per the medical staff report under Dr. Barry Wohl, asking for a rule and regulations policy of medical staff to designate OB nurses the authority to communicate to an attending doctor whether a patient should go home because of false or early labor. Board Chair Anthony Spiegelberg explains: EMTALA stands for the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, the governing body which sets a lot of procedural regulations for hospitals around the country.

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ FORUM – RESCHEDULED MAY 3, 2007 - Lots of activities had to be rescheduled because of last week's snowstorm, including the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce Ag/Natural Resources/Public Lands Committee County Commissioner forum. Has anything changed about the event? . That's Chamber of Commerce spokesperson, Debi Isakson. She reminds us what the forum entails: . Commissioners Terry Cram, Steve Maier and Bob Rolston have seen the questions in advance, allowing them an opportunity to do any research necessary to answer them in as informed a manner as possible, given the five minute time limit. Debi tells us who the seven question sponsors are: . After the Q & A and discussion period, everyone will enjoy a social reception with complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages. For more information, call the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce at: 672-2485 or email Debi Isakson: disakson@sheridanwyomingchamber.org.

GOVERNOR RESPONDS TO FEDERAL REQUEST THAT THE STATE CHANGE IT'S WOLF LAW - Governor Freudenthal hosted a media conference Wednesday afternoon to respond to questions about a letter he sent earlier in the week to Mitch King, regional Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regarding the state's position on its Wolf Management Plan: . In March, King sent a letter asking Wyoming to submit a new wolf management plan to the agency by May 1st. The Governor hopes that negotiations between the state and the Fish and Wildlife Service become more productive, particularly on the 10-J provision that would allow the state to manage wolves that are impacting wildlife herds: . The Bangs that Freudenthal referred to is Ed Bangs, Recovery Specialist with the Fish and Wildlife Service. Bangs has voiced his disapproval numerous times on the plan. Freudenthal feels that better communication is needed to resolve this issue: . Even though the two sides have been at odds on this subject for some time now, the Governor closed his media conference by saying that he remains optimistic that a compromise can be reached with the Fish and Wildlife Service.

WYOMING BUSINESS COUNCIL SPONSORS PHOTO CONTEST - Shutterbugs, get ready! The Wyoming Business Council wants your photos. Cindy Garretson-Weibel, Agri-Business Director for the Council, explains: . She encourages all Wyoming youth, adults, amateurs and professional photographers to submit their best Wyoming ag pics for cash prizes and use in advertising campaigns and promotional materials. There are two main categories: seasonal (winter, spring, summer and fall) and various agriculture photos, including crops; ag recreation and activities; livestock and farm animals; and scenic agricultural. Each season has it's own entry deadline: Spring - May 15, 2007; Summer - August 1, 2007; Fall - November 1, 2007; and Winter - February 1, 2008.The winners will be announced during National Agriculture Week 2008. For the entry form and additional information, contact Terri Barr at 307.777.2807, terri.barr@wybusiness.org or visit the Agribusiness page at www.wyomingbusiness.org

AMERICAN EGG BOARD FAILS TO FIND WYOMING ARTIST FOR STATE EGG - Out of more than half a million people in Wyoming, apparently nobody here can decorate an Easter Egg. A media release this week from the White House Office of the First Lady states that Philip M. LeDonne of Elmhurst, Illinois, decorated the "Wyoming" egg unveiled this week at the annual State Egg Display at the White House Visitor Center. Christine Bushway, of Alexandria, Virginia, is director of state programs for the Egg Board. She claims the board couldn't find a Wyoming artist, adding that LeDonne is a college student, who just so happens to be the son of the one of the egg board's employees. Cara Eastwood, spokeswoman for Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal. She says the governor hopes that in the future the White House contacts the state Arts Council to find a real Wyoming artist.

SHERIDAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE CANCELLING WEDNESDAY NIGHT INMATE VISITATION - Too much snow has caused major leaking at the Sheridan County Detention Center, forcing tonight's visitation to be canceled. Captain Clean is working to clean up the mess. Visitation will resume by Saturday, with males receiving visitors at 8:30 in the morning, and females receiving visitors at 1:30 Saturday afternoon.

COUNTY COMMISSION COVERS A LOT OF ISSUES AT THEIR FIRST APRIL MEETING TUESDAY - The Sheridan County Commission met for their first regular monthly meeting Tuesday. Time was spent thanking all the county employees who worked diligently during the recent snowstorm – Emergency Manager, Dave Coleman will be scheduling a post-storm evaluation soon – and commissioners recognized two employees for their years of service – Carrie Legerski from Community Health for 10 years, and Margo Johnson for 35 years in the County Clerk's office. Commissioner Terry Cram says they heard a special presentation from George Huntington from the University of Wyoming: . Cram credits having the additional money from the CAP Tax to fix the roads, which will be an ongoing process. Other commission business – a new business park lease with Great Lakes Airlines: . The airline is scheduled to begin service in Sheridan sometime in early May, adding to the flights currently provided by Big Sky. Terry adds they approved another business park lease agreement for 40 years for Pearl Property Management LLC: . Cram indicates the commission has heard that estimates are for 6-million dollars worth of buildings in the works for that lease. Commissioners approved the yearly agreement between the Big Horn National Forest Service and the Sheridan County Sheriff's office, whereby the Forest Service will pay approximately 45-hundred dollars a year to have extra patrol in the mountains. And among further agenda items, commissioners read through a letter from Leopard Street residents Alan and Richelle Schultz asking to de-annex from the City back into the County. Cram says that they acknowledged the letter: .We will be interested to learn how that issue pans out. The next regular County Commission meeting will be on Tuesday, April 17th.

RANCHESTER TOWN COUNCIL APPROVES BUSINESS RELOCATION - Ranchester's Town Council met last night for their first meeting of the month. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: .

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CONFERENCE BEGINS WITH DRAMA PRESENTATION AT SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL ABOUT DATE RAPE - The auditorium at Sheridan High School was full Tuesday afternoon for the presentation of “Until Someone Wakes Up”, brought to Sheridan as part of the three-day Domestic Violence Awareness conference. The subject matter wasn't always easy to listen to, but necessary nonetheless, given that sexual assault in the high schools and colleges around the country has reached epidemic proportions. Part of The SAVA Center out of Fort Collins Colorado, cast member Michael Bowser, describes his involvement: . Michael discusses the stories that were presented: . How has response to their efforts been? . To report domestic violence or date rape, call the Advocacy & Resource Center at 672-3222 or 911. Video from Advocacy & Resource Center

YOUTH ADVOCATES LEND SHOULDERS OF COMPASSION TO SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT BODY - Along with the Fort Collins Cast of “Until Someone Wakes Up”, students from Sheridan High School's Youth Advocates participated. Advocate Sheila Harper discusses the play and her involvement: .Harper explains the Youth Advocate program at SHS: . Here is the contact information for the Youth Advocate program, as well as numbers
              Advocacy and Resource Center Rape Hotline – 672-3222
              Sheridan Police Department – 672-2413
              Sheridan County Sheriff's Office – 672-3455
              Sheridan Memorial Hospital – 672-1000
              Department of Family Services – 672-2404
              Family Planning of the Big Horns – 672-7054
              Sheridan County Community Health – 672-5169
              Wyo. Coalition against Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault
                     800-990-3877
              Division of Victim Services – 888-996-8816 V/TTY
              Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network – 800-656-4673
              National Center for Victims of Crime - 800-394-2255

FIRE DISTRICT BOARD MEETS TO FINE-TUNE LANGUAGE OF PROPOSAL TO THE CITY OF SHERIDAN - Members of the Sheridan County Fire District Board met Tuesday night to go over their draft proposal they've been asked to provide to the City of Sheridan. Chairman Randy Rowland says: . Some of the questionable areas, Randy tells us: .As Rowland points out, the County doesn't own the equipment, they don't employ the firefighting personnel, and fire calls don't always result in full-blown firefighting efforts:. Rowland hopes the Fire District board will have the final letter finished by the end of the week so they can submit it to the City Council.

CAREER GUIDANCE PROGRAM GRANTS AWARDED TO THREE WYOMING TOWNS - The Wyoming Workforce Development Council awarded three high schools in Riverton, Jackson and Hulett grants that will aid in the development of Career Guidance Programs. These programs can address the local employment needs of these communities. Jerimiah Rieman, Policy Analyst for the Department of Workforce Services, describes what this means for the three towns: . A broad spectrum will be covered, Rieman says: . The Department of Workforce Services, alongside the Wyoming Workforce Development Council, has been working with its partners to find ways to try to keep youth our state.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE WYOMING ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPALITIES UPDATES SHERIDAN ON RECENT LEGISLATIVE SESSION - Sheridan City Hall Council Chambers was the site Tuesday afternoon for an informal recap of the recent legislative session presented by George Parks, who is the Executive Director of the Wyoming Association of Municipalities, or WAM. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey and Councilman Duane Farley were present for the legislative recap, along with various city department heads. Parks covered everything from CBM impact funding to the new appropriation of fifty one million, two hundred fifty-thousand dollars for cities, towns and governments. Councilman Farley points out that the presentation affirmed the idea that a lot goes into running a city such as Sheridan: . Furthermore, Farley states, there are a lot of intricate details that for the most part go unnoticed when it comes to keeping Sheridan moving forward: . Mayor Kinskey also announced that he'd be in Cheyenne Thursday for the SLIB Board meeting, where it will be determined how the 5 point 8 million dollars in impact funds will be split up between the eight impacted counties.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE ENTERPRISE TEAM – BETTER KNOWN AS S.I.F.E. -- TAKES FIRST AT REGIONAL COMPETITION FOR 3RD YEAR IN A ROW -You've heard us report about their income tax services at Sheridan College. Well, the S.I.F.E. Members – Students in Free Enterprise – are in the news again, as their team's performance at the regional competition in Denver Tuesday garnered them a first place victory, making this the third year in a row the team has been at the top. S.I.F.E.'s sponsor, business teacher Tracy Dearinger, talks about what they presented that brought them their first place status: . The Sheridan College S.I.F.E. Team beat teams from colleges in Colorado, New Mexico, Montana, Kansas, South Dakota and Nebraska. With all those other states competing, do they not present similar activities? .The spoils of their victory? 15-hundred dollars to help defray the cost of competing in the National Competition which will be held in May in Dallas, Texas. You'll be hearing about upcoming fund raisers, as it will cost 10-thousand dollars for the total cost of the students to attend nationals.Next Wednesday, April 11th, the S.I.F.E. Team will host a showcase beginning at 4 in the C-Tel Presentation Hall at Sheridan College.

National Guardsman Jeff Roush says hello to his one-year-old son Adrian. Adrian was three weeks old when Jeff left for Iraq last year. (Click photo to see more.)

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL AWARDS BIDS FOR TWO BIG CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS - Sheridan's City Council worked through a varied agenda at their meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: .

CITY OF SHERIDAN WILL PUT THEIR PLANS ON HOLD REGARDING THE CONTRUCTION DEBRIS TRASH BUSINESS - It was a move that raised the eyebrows of many and it has Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey wondering if it was the right decision: . So what is the next step for the city: . The Mayor pointed out that there is actually an ordinance on the books that makes it a crime to compete with the city in the trash hauling business. Kinskey stated “that doesn't sit right with him” and he plans on resolving this issue once he meets with those from the private sector that are interested in doing this sort of job.

DAYTON TOWN COUNCIL APPROVES PRELIMINARY PLAT FOR A SUBDIVISION, APPROVES 2007-2008 BUDGET - The Dayton Town Council met for their first April meeting. They began by holding a public hearing on a zoning change request for David Lemons, who wants to switch from an R-1 to an R-2 so he can build a duplex. Council then approved the preliminary plat for the Wood Rock Subdivision Phase Three. Dayton Mayor Bob Wood: . Council approved the second reading of the 2007-2008 Town of Dayton Budget, with third reading on April 18th. And then they set the dates for their annual spring clean-up: . Mayor Wood says the dates for Dayton's spring clean-up are May 7th through May 11th.

CRITICAL CARE RESPONDERS BEGIN TRAINING IN POST-INCIDENT RECOVERY - The Sheridan Police department has begun holding training sessions to build up a Critical Incident Stress Management team, under the guidance of George Doherty. He is president of the Rocky Mountain Region Disaster Mental Health Institute, and he gives us a general idea of what the team is all about: . As an example, George says: . George tells us why coming to Sheridan is important: . Critical incidents may produce a wide range of stress symptoms, which usually occur in five different areas: thinking, physical, emotional, behavioral actions, and spiritual. All kinds of people can make up a stress management team, including administrators, business and industry personnel, those who work in emergency services, faith-based providers, health care and mental health professionals, just to name a few. The police department will be holding three more training sessions over the next several months, and they encourage people outside the department to join the team. For moret information call Jenifer Shassetz at 672-5609.

FORMER FIREFIGHTER MARK HARTMAN IS BEING CHARGED WITH THREE COUNTS - Mark Hartman, the former Sheridan firefighter who allegedly stole prescription medications from local residents, is now formally being charged. He is facing three counts of obtaining controlled substances by false pretenses. Hartman was never arrested because according to Police Sergeant Tom Ringley, he cooperated with investigators and was not considered a flight risk. Hartman could have been arrested when charges were formally brought against him; however, his attorney, Hardy Tate, requested Hartman appear in Court by summons rather than be arrested. (A Court date for Hartman's initial appearance has not yet been set)

ALSO IN COURT NEWS - Johnny Old Coyote appeared in Sheridan Circuit Court yesterday afternoon for charges of felony larceny. Old Coyote allegedly entered a Ranchester liquor store on March 21st with the intent to commit a felony larceny. The maximum penalty for this crime is ten years in the State Penitentiary, a 10-thousand-dollar fine or both. Circuit Court Judge Samson set a 35-hundred-dollar cash bond for Old Coyote. Old Coyote has lived in Ranchester for 12 years and said he has family living there.

SENATOR AND MRS. THOMAS VISITS THE NEW WY-STAR FACILITY - Senator Craig Thomas, his wife Susan and members of his staff were guests at WySTAR's new women's facility Monday afternoon. After touring the new building, in which the residents have been housed since the beginning of March, members of the Wy-STAR and Volunteers of America boards presented the senator with some special items. President of the Volunteers of America Wyoming and Montana district, Frank Boley: . Along with the yellow vest, Thomas also received a new denim western shirt bearing the Wy-STAR logo, prompting Susan Thomas to quip that the senator hadn't needed to pack for this trip. Boley tells us the significance of the Thomas' visit: .Video of Senator & Mrs. Thomas visit the new WyStar Women's Facility

“IF ONLY WE COULD GO FISHING ON MAIN STREET” - Sam Street's yearly art show opening reception is this afternoon at the SherIdan Public Library. It's called “Main Street and Beyond”. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love, who went a little beyond Main Street to drop by the Library for a chat with Sam, has this report: .

TWO SHERIDAN POLICE OFFICERS GRADUATE FROM LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY POLICE OFFICER BASIC COURSE - Sheridan police officers Michael Rompf and James Hill have complete 576 hours of training that make up the Police Officer Basic Course. Officer Hill has the distinction of graduating at the top of his class, which numbered 37, and describes what the study entailed: . Officer Hill explains how this study differs from initial training that saw them sworn in on the force: . Officer Hill says that he and Officer Rompf began training on January 2nd at the academy in Douglas, staying down there during the week and returning home on the weekends. Will more training be required to move up through the ranks, or does promotion occur based solely on performance? . A transplant from Colorado, as beautiful as that state is, Wyoming appealed more to Officer Hill, who tells us why he chose law enforcement as a career: .Officer Hill credits a good memory and good study habits to garnering his “top of the class” status.

RE-CAP OF WYDOT EXPERIENCE - Now that things are slowly getting back to normal for Northeastern Wyoming residents after the big snowstorm, Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson sat down with WyDOT District 4 Information Specialist Ronda Holwell for a re-cap of the blizzard experience: . Word from the parent of a returning Powder River Cowboy extend big thanks to Wy-DOT for clearing I-90 in time for them to greet the returning troops in Casper Saturday afternoon.

TABLE TOP EXERCISE BEGINS THE PROCESS OF FINE-TUNING CITY-WIDE EMERGENCY RESPONSE - As members of public works and others continue to monitor how the snow from this last big storm begins to melt, Sheridan police Lt. Chris Dahmke and Sgt. Tom Ringley hosted the first of several “Table Top Exercises.” Lt. Dahmke explains: . With representatives from public works, Sheridan Fire/Rescue, the police department and emergency dispatch, and the media in attendance, Lt. Dahmke tells what this first meeting revealed: . A lot of discussion centered around where the ideal location would be for an Emergency Operations Center, or EOC, should City Hall be flooded: . Components such as having a facility that it high enough not to itself be flooded, one that would have back-up power, computer and phone hook-ups, and so forth. And another critical piece of the EOC. -- a financial “bean counter”: . Adding a final thought, Sgt. Tom Ringley:.There are plans to hold more Table Top Exercises in the near future.

CITY COUNCIL PREVIEW - A last-minute change has been made to the Sheridan City Council agenda for tonight's meeting. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey: . Items that will be on tonight's agenda – a public hearing on the revision of the conceptual plat for the Poplar Grove Planned Unit Developement, after which a vote will be taken on the revision; action taken on waiving the landfill fee for the Habitat for Humanity's ReStore facility; approval for an ordinance amending the Sheridan City Code to allow open containers of alcoholic beverages on chartered busses and trolleys; and approval of distribution of Section 328 SLIB Block Grants. Two projects will also be awarded bids: Special Improvement District #77, better known as the Gould/Broadway project; and the Linden Area Reconstruction project. Tonight's Sheridan City Council meeting begins at 7 in the 3rd floor council chambers of City Hall, and will also be broadcast live on AM 14-10 KWYO.

DESPITE THE SNOW-SATURATED WEATHER, OVER 300 LOCALS SHOWED UP TO SALSA AT THE ELKS - The “Project Schoolhouse Salsa Spectacular” was this weekend, and despite having almost an entire winter in several days, the band from Austin, as well as over 300 people made it to the party. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love was there and has this report . You can check out photos and learn more about “Project Schoolhouse” by going to www.projectschoolhouse.org .

THAT'S COW”GIRL” JO TO YOU! - The Cowgirls have won the WNIT. Nearly 15 and a half-thousand people were there to see history unfold on the court in Arena Auditorium Saturday afternoon. It was the biggest crowd ever for a Wyoming women's game, and the second-largest crowd ever since the arena was built. Jodi Bolerjack and Justyna Podziemska scored 16 points each as Wyoming beat Wisconsin 72 to 56 in Laramie Saturday afternoon. Wyoming had a double-digit lead through most of the second half. Wisconsin came within 57 to 48 on a hook shot by Janese Banks. But that was as close as the Badgers got. After Podziemska, Hanna Zavecz scored 12 points and Megan McGuffey had ten points. Wyoming finished its season with 27 wins and nine losses, by far the best season in Cowgirls history. Wyoming got to the W-N-I-T final by beating Nevada, Missouri, and South Dakota State. But their win over Wisconsin to claim the W-N-I-T title was different from their last two games in the tournament – they had come from behind to beat Oregon. The Cowgirls then beat Kansas State, but it took triple overtime to snag a chance at the championship. Wyoming's Hanna Zavecz was named the tournament M-V-P.

APRIL IS SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH—AND THERE WILL BE A CONFRENCE AS WELL AS SEVERAL PERFOMANCES THIS WEEK - Today is the first day of April, but it also marks the first day of “Sexual Assault Awareness Month.” A state-wide conference on sexual assault is taking place at Sheridan's Holiday Inn, this week, starting Tuesday. Before the conference, however, on Monday night at Sheridan College, there will be a theatrical production called “Until Someone Wakes Up.” Charlotte Jenkins with the Advocacy and Resource Center:. And what about the state-wide conference this Tuesday through Thursday?. You can get more information about the performance Monday night or the conference by calling the Advocacy and Resource Center in Sheridan.

THIS TIME OF YEAR IS ESPECIALLY DANGEROUS FOR HANTAVIRUS - The Wyoming Department of Health wants to get the word out about Hantavirus, as many people will begin their spring cleaning soon. Emerging Diseases Chief with the Wyoming Department of Health, Clay Van Houten, says that prevention is the key with Hantavirus:

. Since 1999, there have been seven total cases reported in Wyoming and three of those resulted in death. Van Houton explains why the virus is so easily spread this time of year:

. The Department of Health suggests anyone cleaning out garages, campers, cabins or anywhere there might be rodent droppings to use rubber gloves, sterilize the area with bleach and most importantly do not sweep or vacuum the area until thoroughly cleaned with bleach or a strong disinfectant.

HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE SEMINAR - Sheridan Memorial Hospital will be hosting Dr. Jorge Ramirez, Clinical Coordinator for Hospice and Palliative Care for the V.A.'s network of 19 hospitals. Hospice offers care to the terminally ill and their families using a team approach when curative treatment is no longer desirable. Hospice teams may consist of the folowing: physicians, nurses, certified nursing assistants, social workers, volunteers, and spiritual care providers. Anyone interested in learning more about these specialzed care areas is encouraged to attend. The evening seminar begins at 7 tomorrow in meeting rooms A and B, off of the hospital cafeteria. It is free and open to the public.

HELP FOR GRANDPARENTS AND OTHERS RAISING RELATIVES CHILDREN - Did you know that more than 6-thousand children are being raised in the care of relatives who aren't their biological parents? By the end of this year, experts say the number of Wyoming children being raised in what is known as “kinship care” will exceed 8-thousand. Wyoming's kinship caregivers - grandparents and others raising their relatives children - now can get help on legal, financial, educational and other advocacy issues through Wyoming Kinship Advocacy or WYKA. WYKA offers information and a referral network for caregivers to learn more about services and get referrals to legal, financial, educational, health/mental health, support group and housing resources. Funded through grants from the state's Department of Health Aging Division, Community Action of Laramie County and with support from Casey Family Programs, it is the first organization of its kind in Wyoming, where kinship advocacy is emerging as a major public policy issue. The network serves as a "one-click resource" accessible through the interactive Web site. contacts / information: The WYKA office at the Family Success Center on Hobbs Avenue in Cheyenne also offers support from resource guides, Alice Carter and Dianne Johnson. Hours are from 9 am - 4 pm weekdays. Phone: 307-638-2564, ext. 283. Or visit their website.

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