.
	MAY 2007 NEWS ARCHIVE VISIT THE NEWS ARCHIVE HERE Questions or comments, please call (307) 672-7421 or click here to email us. Email the news department directly by clicking here.

Thursday, May 31, 2007

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL CONTINUES TO REVIEW THE BUDGET - Sheridan City Council continues to squeeze change out of the budget as they still have about 2-million to widdle from about 16-million.  Still, the Council is giving a lot of discretion to individual departments to determine what they can and cannot live without Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey explains: . Because there is still a lot of work and reviewing Council decided to tag on an extra two days to meeting which are tonight and tomorrow.

THE CHILD CARE CENTER PROJECT WAS REVIEWED BY THE WYOMING BUSINESS COUNCIL - A group of local residents returned from Jackson yesterday quite disappointed.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the story: .      

MEMBERS OF SCHOOL DISTRICT 2, LAW ENFORCEMENT, EMERGENCY PERSONNEL AND SHERIDAN MEDIA MET TO DE-BRIEF THE BOMB THREAT SITUATION - A “Bomb Threat De-Brief” was held Wednesday morning in the Sheridan District 2 Admin building.  Detective Sergeant Tom Ringley facilitated the gathering, first outlining the sequence of events of May 23rd, when Thomas Mines, who was high on meth, called in two bomb threats – one to the Sheridan High School and one to the Sheridan Junior High.  He had also placed a suspicious call to the Sheridan County Courthouse, all it turned out, in an effort to miss a court date. SHS Principal Dirleen Wheeler and SJHS Principal Scott Stults discussed what their staffs and students did in following protocol for evacuations; District 2 SRO Officer Dan White and Lt. Steve Matheson of the Sheridan Police Department talked about their duties doing a sweep of SHS; Assistant Superintendent Terry Burgess and District 2 Crisis Team Coordinator Servio Carroll went over the district's general protocol for this type of incident and how it was followed; Police Chief Mike Card, Fire Chief Patrick Reitz and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson went over the communications aspect of dealing with the event; and Rocky Mountain Ambulance employee Mark Ketchem talked about the emergency services presence at the schools.  Representing the SHS parent group was Pat Quist. The schools will continue to fine-tune their emergency plans, with the possibility of conducting a staff and parent safety meeting in the fall.

HOSPITAL BOARD APPROVES FUNDS TO PURCHASE SOFTWARE LICENSE - The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees held their regular monthly meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: .        

SHERIDAN V.A. MEDICAL CENTER DONATES COMPUTERS TO THE FREE CLINIC - The Free Clinic of Sheridan received a generous donation Thursday evening – ten computers – from the Sheridan V.A. Medical Center.  Free Clinic Director, Cathy Kindt, tells us: . And even though the clinic is only open for four hours on Thursday evenings, the other days are spent working on grants and, Cathy says: . Jackie Van Mark is the Public Information Specialist with the V.A. says that because they are constantly upgrading their computers to keep up with advances in technology, they are able to pass these ten on: . And Cathy Kindt says an added plus is the deal they got on upgraded software for the units: . In the last two years, the Free Clinic of Sheridan has served 700 first-time patients, with an estimated 31-hundred people living in Sheridan County who could qualify for their services.

SHERIDAN SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 BOARD HOLDS SPECIAL MEETING TO APPROVE SALARIES - During a specially-held meeting Wednesday night, the Sheridan School District 2 Board of Trustees approved the 2007-2008 salary schedule for Certified and Classified staff, along with a separate schedule for the school nurses. For Certified staff, which includes the teachers, the board approved the base pay increase from 39-thousand this school year to 42-thousand for next, with an average increase of 6.69 percent per teacher.  The available funds totaled $1.178 million dollars.  Not surprisingly, the teachers and the Sheridan Education Association are pleased. Classified staff includes secretaries and accounting technicians, cooks and cook's helpers, bus drivers, para-professionals, maintenance and custodial personnel.  The Board approved adding a pay step and raising steps approximately $1.35 per hour, with an average increase of 9.74 percent.  Also, the eligibility for paraprofessional health insurance was moved from 1 year employment to a 4 month wait time. And after a committee spent time conducting a study of what nurses are paid in hospitals and doctors' offices in Sheridan County, a recommendation was made, and the Board approved, increasing the pay/step range for 2-year RN's from 19 dollars for Step 1 to $25.30 for Step 19; and for 4-year RN's the range increased to 21 dollars for Step 1 to $27.30 for Step 19.  The board felt that the average 20 percent increase would greatly aid in recruiting nursing staff to the District. The pay schedule for Substitute teachers will be addressed in June. After a 30 minute Executive Session, the Board approved hiring the District Personnel list for 2007-2008.

HE'S A DOCTOR BY DAY, AND A SHEEP RANCHER BY NIGHT - Two shakes of a lamb's tail from downtown Ranchester is the idyllic property that is Dr. Pete and Marie Carricaburu's sheep ranch.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson brings us part one in a series: .   Video of Dr. Pete Carricaburu's lesson in sheep

GAME AND FISH PLEASED WITH THE STATE'S WOLF MANAGEMENT PLAN - The agreement between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service and  Wyoming to include the state in the process of removing wolves from the federal endangered species list is looked at by the Game and Fish Department as a step in the right direction. Game and Fish Director, Terry Cleveland, says management of the wolf won't come cheap: . Also, Cleveland hopes that state license buyers aren't asked to shoulder the burden: . The Fish and Wildlife Service has proclaimed that Wyoming's wolf plan seems to be complete, and that the process in now in place for the wolves to be de-listed possibly by as early as next year.

WE ALL KNOW THE COST OF LIVING IN WYOMING IS GOING WAY UP, BUT WHAT IS DRIVING THE HIGH INFLATION RATE? -  The cost of living in Wyoming is going way up, according to a recently released report from the Wyoming Economic Analysis Division.  And the biggest increases we're seeing? . Wenlin Liu, who is the Senior Economist with the Wyoming Economic Analysis Division, says – not surprisingly – that the biggest housing jumps are in counties with all the energy development, such as Sheridan and Johnson.  Also, he says the overall inflation in Wyoming was over 2 percent higher than the national rate, and much of that was driven by Wyoming's skyrocketing housing prices. And while there are some indications that economic activity and price increases could level off a bit, Wyoming's economy should continue to be robust: . To view a copy of the report detailing Wyoming's economic state, visit http://eadiv.state.wy.us/wcli/NewsRelease-4Q06.pdf

Wednesday, May 30, 2007

FIFTEEN-YEAR-OLD MALE RUN OVER BY CAR ON WHICH HE'D BEEN “SURFING” -  At about 8 o'clock last night, an ambulance had been summoned to the 50th block of Bellevue.  Detective Sgt. Tom Ringley, Jr. explains: . Ringley tells us what the officers learned upon arriving: . Ringley had no update as to the victim's status.  As for the driver: . Ringley says that the County Attorney may decide the case is only a misdemeanor, thereby having a citation issued, but until that determination and the possibility of it being a felony, no charges have been made.  The case is under investigation.

TO TAX OR NOT TO TAX?  THAT WAS THE QUESTION FACING SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL - To tax or not to tax?  That was the question facing Sheridan City Council when they voted on the number of mills to assess Sheridan residents for property taxes yesterday afternoon.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the story: .     

Sock Hop for Loy Harding

SHERIDAN JR. HIGH MUSIC TEACHER, LOY HARDING, HOLDS A SOCK HOP OF SORTS AT THE FINAL CONCERT OF HER TEACHING CAREER - She's been teaching choral music to Junior High kids for nearly thirty years, and last night was Loy Harding's final concert.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson reports: . 

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL GETS A NEW, WELL, SORT OF NEW MEMBER - During a special session last evening, Sheridan City Council decided on a councilor to replace Duane Farley's seat.  After listening to three candidates describe the priorities and qualities they would bring to the Council, the current Council held a secret vote.   And out of the three candidates, on whom did they decide?  A very excited former City Councilwoman, Cathy Kennedy: . Cathy says her top priority sitting on the Council  is to improve and increase Sheridan's water supply.

"Guatamalen Procession" now on display at Bradford Brinton.

MAYAN PROCESSION – TECHNICOLOR LIFE-SIZE PAINTINGS NOW ON DISPLAY AT BRADFORD BRINTON MEMORIAL AND GALLERY - The reception was held over Memorial Day weekend, but the display is up all summer long.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson with more on the Bradford Brinton display of “Mayan Procession”: .

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL TALKS WATER, SEWER AND GARBAGE RATES - Sheridan City Council continues to work through the budget for the upcoming yea,r and is currently trying to reconcile about a 2-million dollar difference between department requests and projected revenue. Last night, Council gave feedback to staff about increasing water, sewer and landfill rates.  Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey gives us his stance on the issue: .The proposed increase for residential sewer and water rates was about 2-dollars a month—or 4-dollars per bi-monthly cycle, and the suggested garbage rate increase was about 2-dollars a month as well.   However, while Council won't actually vote on the budget for a few weeks now, the consensus of the Council is leaning towards increasing commercial rather than residential fees for these services.   Sheridan City Council meets again tonight to discuss the budget at 5 pm at Sheridan City Hall. 

CLOUD PEAK RANCH PASSED THEIR NEXT TEST IN THE DEVELOPMENT PROCESSION - Sheridan City Planning Commission reviewed the 7th filing for Cloud Peak Ranch to create 31 residential lots by Mydland Road and South Dome Drive.  This proposed residential development across from Highland Park Elementary was approved, but not without resistance and heavy questioning from the Commission. Some of their concerns were about sidewalks and road width, but there was also hesitation about the overall layout.  Sheridan City Planner Robert Briggs tells us:    . The Commission also considered and approved a request to create four new commercial lots west of US Highway 87: . The Commission also decided to start holding regular work sessions, with their first set for 5 o'clock prior to their next regularly scheduled meeting. 

SHERIDAN COUNTY ONCE AGAIN YIELDS THE STATE RECORD FOR ROCK BASS - Earlier this month a record breaking fish was reeled in right  here in Sheridan County. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: .

Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Video of Eaton's Horse Drive

SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION - 177 High School students received diplomas in the Sheridan High School gymnasium Sunday, May 27. The processional began shortly after one o'clock, when the members of the SHS band who were not graduating, played Pomp and Circumstance composed by Edward Elgar. SHS Principal Dirlene Wheeler welcomed the packed crowd and the graduates to the ceremony. Keynote speaker, SHS Orchestra Director, Razmick Sarkissian, called on the graduates to work together with other leaders in the industrialized world to resolve global problems. “Education, by itself, does not merely render success,” he cautioned “Rather it takes a strong character and a tenacious work ethic.” Salutatorian Emily Beagle and Valedictorian Corey Peacock also addressed their fellow graduates, reminiscing on the positive experiences they had at the high school as well as the hopes they had for their class' future. The event ended with the presentation of the Senior class by Wheeler, and the traditional tossing of mortarboards by the graduates.

CITY OF SHERIDAN FIRE / EMS PERSONNEL WERE BUSY GETTING WORD TO THE PUBLIC MONDAY REGARDING AMBULANCE SERVICE As people began to gather along the parade route Monday, members of off-duty Sheridan Fire-Rescue personnel handed out flyers with information regarding the potential of the City to contract solely with Rocky Mountain Ambulance, a private company, for ambulance services within the city limits.  President of Sheridan's chapter of the International Association of Firefighters, George Neeson, was not pleased when prior to the noon budget session Friday, a special meeting was called with the City Council and Rick Ballard, owner of Rocky Mountain, wherein a Statement of Intent was signed: . The Statement of Intent, which Mayor Kinskey and City Clerk Art Elkins signed on May 25th, 2007, says, in part, "The City of Sheridan, Wyoming intends to enter into a contract agreement with Rocky Mountain Ambulance Service to insure ambulance service to those people living inside the city limits of Sheridan, particularly those who are indigent.  Further, the City will not enter into an agreement with another ambulance provider for the same service during the term of this agreement..."In a story we ran this past Saturday, Rocky Mountain owner, Rick Ballard, said they plan to increase their staff from 8 to 12. According to a segment of the Fire/EMS flyer, it states "Contracting solely with a private ambulance service means that your tax dollars are going to a private business that gives you no say in how it is using your money."  Neeson voices a big concern for his colleagues, should the possibility of EMS services be cut: .   The April statistics from Sheridan Fire-Rescue show they had 131 incident responses, including Fire Incidents, Rescue & EMS, Hazardous Conditions, Service Calls, and an explosion, to name a few.  They did 23 Child Passenger Safety Seat Checks, conducted over 400 hours of Firefighter/EMT Training, and held 94 hours of Public Training Events. Neeson encourages the public to contact members of the Council with concerns.

THE TRUE MEANING OF MEMORIAL DAY WAS NOT LOST ON THOSE WHO ATTENDED PARADE/CEREMONY IN SHERIDAN MONDAY MORNING - Although Monday morning dawned with more gray skies than over the weekend, the clouds parted in time for the annual Memorial Day parade and service at the Sheridan County Courthouse.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson reports: .      

THE 2007 CiViC PROJECT APPLICATIONS ARE DUE THIS FRIDAY - The deadline is on the horizon for interested Sheridan County residents to turn in their applications for the 2007 Sheridan CiViC Project, sponsored by the Center for a Vital Community.  CVC Director, Jenny Craft: . For those who may still be uncertain as to what the Sheridan CiViC   Project is about, Jenny reminds us: . It's time very well spent, Jenny says: . Jenny stresses that if you applied last year but were not selected, do not let that keep you from applying again this year, because while you may not have fit the matrix they painstakingly put together in 2006, you very well could in 2007.  They're looking for a true cross-section of folks, ultimately taking 12 men and 12 women, from 19 years old on up.  AND, this is for anyone in Sheridan County. The deadline for the 2007 CiViC Project is this Friday, June 1st.  For more information, contact the Center for a Vital Community at Sheridan College or go online to print out an application.  Jenny Craft at the CVC:  674-6446 or online: http://cvc.sheridan.edu

WYOMING RESEARCHERS ARE TRACKING DOWN THE BEES - We've been hearing a lot about “Colony Collapse Disorder”--the mysterious ailment causing bee populations to disappear en masse.  Well, state researchers are now surveying Wyoming's bee populations.  Hank Uhden, who is the manager of the technical services division, with the information: 05-29-40. This study, Hank says, is in addition to a national survey: . Scientists still do not know what is causing bee populations to disappear; one of the theories flying around though, is a virus is causing collapse disorder: . Hank adds that we should have a clearer picture by the end of the summer about how many bees in Wyoming and the nation are being impacted by colony collapse disorder. Over 80 per cent of our Nation's food crop is pollinated by bees.

WYOMING HUNTERS AND ANGLERS PROSPECT IN D.C. - State residents, conservation groups, hunters and anglers have been sounding the alarm for the last several years about the risks of the ever-expanding oil and gas drilling plans in Wyoming, and now they've taken their argument to our nation's capital. Tom Reed with Wyoming Trout Unlimited said that the main reason for the trek to Washington D.C. is to discuss the new Sportsman's Public Lands Energy Agenda.Reed says they're not looking to curb oil and gas production in the state: . Reed points out that they're not asking for the impossible, because there are some companies that are making an effort to tread lightly on the land: . The new Sportsman's Public Lands Energy Agenda includes several recommendations for legislation directing the BLM to balance fish, wildlife and recreation resources with oil and gas development.

RESERVATION DEADLINE FOR SATURDAY'S “A NIGHT FOR THE MUSEUM” IS TOMORROW - This Saturday night is the Sheridan County Museum fund raiser titled “A Night for the Museum”. There will be food, fun and many unique items that will be auctioned off during a live and silent auction.  Sheridan County Historical Society President, Linda Prill, tells us about one item in particular: .  Along with the large number of auction items, there'll be a dinner and cash bar, and something very special that Linda herself is cooking up: .  Single dinner tickets cost twenty bucks, with a table of eight costing 144 dollars. Reservations need to be made by tomorrow at 11 am. You can get your tickets at the Sheridan County Museum or at the WYO Theater box office. “A Night for the Museum” will be this Saturday night at the Sheridan Holiday Inn with the doors opening at 5:30 pm.

OUR WEEKLY POLL QUESTION WANTS TO KNOW YOUR OPINION ABOUT THE IMMIGRATION LAWS BEING PROPOSED IN WASHINGTON - The hotbed of controversy doesn't stop when it comes to peoples' views on immigration into the United States.  The U.S. Senate has recently proposed an Immigration Reform Bill, and we want to know:  Do you you support it?  We took to the streets for some answers to this week's poll question: . Let us know what you think:  answer the poll question on the right-hand side, and feel free to leave comments in the Forum. The results will be read Friday morning during the Jackson Electric Open Line, 9 am on AM 930 KROE

Sunday, May 27, 2007

COMMEMORATING THE FALLEN - U.S. Senator Mike Enzi of Wyoming is encouraging all Americans to join him in honoring those who gave their lives in the fight for freedom and those continuing to serve and protect our nation during this Memorial Day. In a statement issued by his D.C. office, Enzi said, “Out of consideration for our veterans, everyone should take time to reflect on the selfless sacrifice paid by so many to preserve the heritage of this great country.”  He goes on to say, “It is crucial that we support our military servicemen and women, especially while so many of them are serving overseas.” Since the Civil War, Memorial Day has been a sacred day, one reserved to recognize, respect and honor America's sons and daughters who died serving their country.

MEMORIAL DAY PARADE TO TAKE PLACE TOMORROW ON MAIN STREET IN SHERIDAN - The annual Memorial Day parade will once again take place on Main Street in downtown Sheridan tomorrow. Chairman of the Sheridan County Joint Veterans Council, Jim Craig, gives us the details: . Craig explains that there are many participants in this years parade:. Once again the Memorial Day parade will be tomorrow on Main Street in downtown Sheridan and it will get underway at 9:30 am.

GOSPEL IN MOTION JUST RETURNED FROM CAMBODIA, KENYA - Gospel in Motion was begun 2005.  Founded by Sheridan residents Bob and Christal Hollandsworth, the missionaries have felt led to concentrate their time and resources in Cambodia with the Foursquare Children of Promise and Warm Blankets Orphan Care International, in what they call a “helps” ministry.  Bob tells us:. Also in Cambodia, he says:. The Hollandsworths have also done extensive “helps” work in Kenya:. Gospel in Motion also provides a large variety of Christian materials into the countries, including Bibles, hymnals, children's teaching materials and flannel graphs.  Also, they provide a lot of humanitarian supplies, including vitamins, vegatable seeds, clothing, bicycles, tractor parts, and water drilling rigs.

YOU MAY HAVE NOTICED SOMETHING MISSING FROM DOWNTOWN SHERIDAN'S SIDEWALKS - You may have noticed downtown Sheridan looking a little different, like something is missing. Well, you'd be right if that's what you thought, because they're getting ready for the 6th annual “Celebrate the Arts” coming up in June.  Event chair Fachon Wilson tells us:. With the new pieces, there will be over 40 sculptures around the downtown area, including the Library, the Senior Center and Kendrick Park. In addition to the ones already part of the permanent collection, the other four sculptures that will stay on Main Street and Grinnell Plaza are the “Sonrise” pheasants by Bill Noland, “The Orphans” by Dollores Shelledy, “Big Handy” by Jerry Palen and “The Boss” also by Shelledy.  The little pony called “Whoa! What's This” by Mary Zimmerman went to Sheridan College and the cowboy roping the chickens, called “Team Ropin'” moved to Whitney Commons.The sculptures can be viewed at www.sheridanpublicarts.com
 

STATE PARKS AND HISTORIC SITES BUSY DURING THIS HOLIDAY WEEKEND - State park officials say that visitors to Wyoming's state parks and historic sites this Memorial Day weekend can look forward to high water levels and some positive changes. At some of the parks, Glendo State Park in particular, administrator Pat Green says the improvements and the increased law enforcement presence will serve to make park usage more enjoyable:  . Green added that all of Wyoming's State Historic sites are open this weekend, offering a fun cultural experience for everyone.

Saturday, May 26, 2007

BRADFORD BRINTON'S 47TH SUMMER SEASON OPENS THIS WEEKEND - Even though the gallery at Bradford Brinton has been open for about a month, the 47th summer season opened today, including both the Gallery and the home. The 2007 Summer Exhibition, titled Mayan Procession:  A Visual Celebration, features 14 life-size oil paintings by Winifred Godfrey, of Chicago, depicting the artist's tribute to the indigenous people of Guatemala's culture. Exhibitions are also scheduled throughout the summer in the Patio Room Gallery, with Bridger Konkel's oils up through July 5; Ginnie Madsen's woodcuts up July 7th to August 2; and Jim Jereb's Etchings up August 4th to September 3rd. A reception in honor of Winifred Godfrey and Bridger Konkel is scheduled for tomorrow from 3 to 5, it is free and open to the public, with refreshments served.  For more information, visit www.bradfordbrintonmemorial.com or call 307-672-3173.

BOMB THREAT SUSPECT MADE SEVERAL COURT APPEARANCES - Thomas Mines, the suspect in the bomb-threat case we heard about Wednesday, had two court appearances yesterday. The first was in Sheridan District Court for his violating his probation.  Mines admitted to using methamphetamine while on probation, including the day he called the courthouse and several schools with the bomb threat.  Because of these violations, Mines will have to go back to prison to serve out his previous 3 to 5 year sentence. Mines also appeared in Sheridan Circuit Court yesterday afternoon for the three new charges of making a “terrorist threat.”  According to court documents, Mines said he only intended to create a bomb scare at the courthouse.  He called several Sheridan schools and said “A bomb is going to blow up in the courtyard,” because he thought the call he made to the courthouse wasn't heard. Mines had a court appearance for his probation violation Wednesday when he made the calls; he said his intent was to get court canceled. These calls were tracked to Mines because two were made from his mother-in-law's phone and one from the Loaf 'n' Jug near her house. Mines was found hiding in the garage rafters at his mother-in-law's house. Each terrorist threat is a felony punishable up to three years in prison. 

REGIONAL 6TH GRADERS ATTEND “COLLEGE FOR A DAY” -  A bright sunny day greeted about 160 6th grade students from Sheridan Jr. High School earlier this week, as they spent “College For a Day” at Sheridan College. Sponsored by the New Futures branch of the Western States Learning Corporation, the program is designed to get young peoples' minds thinking ahead to the studies they need to take if planning to attend college. Chris Smith is with Wyoming's headquarters in Cheyenne: . Casper College, Eastern Wyoming College in Torrington, Sheridan College and the University of Wyoming are all hosting students this spring, while Laramie County Community College will bring them in this fall. Sheridan Junior High School student, “Hailey” took a brisk stroll across campus and spoke with Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson on her thoughts of the day and the things that she learned: . The goal of “College For a Day” is to help students understand the importance of college planning, financial aid options, and setting goals for lifelong learning.  To find out more, check out their website.

CONTROVERSIAL ANNEXATION BY SHERIDAN'S AIRPORT IS PUT TO RESTAURANT - The last few Sheridan City Council meetings the proposal to annex land by Absaraka and Airport Roads in Sheridan was tabled.  The original hearing on the proposal produced a public outcry from residents in the area because if the land were annexed, a higher density workforce housing development was in the works. It turns out the reason this was tabled for several subsequent City Council meetings is that a deal was in the works.  David Edeen is the developer who had planned on building up by Absaraka: . However, one consequence of not developing near Absaraka, David tells us: . David says the new project will be mostly brick houses, which is partly why they will be more expensive.Lee Domanic, who lives up by Absaraka, was the original instigator for the trade.

DUI ARRESTS IN SHERIDAN ARE GOING UP - There is an increase in the DUI arrests in Sheridan, Police Chief Mike Card told Sheridan City Council at Friday afternoon's budget session.  And that corresponds to an increase in costs to the City: . Chief Card says officers are becoming more adept at spotting drunk drivers, but there is an overall increase of intoxicated drivers, as well: . Chief Card didn't have specific numbers on hand, but said he saw a “significant spike” in DUI arrests over the last quarter. While the numbers dropped a bit during the stormy weather, he says he expects those numbers to climb again as we head into the summer season. 

SHERIDAN'S AMBULANCE SERVICES- Sheridan County may not be able to contract with Rocky Mountain Ambulance services unless the City of Sheridan also has a contract with them. In a letter to Sheridan City Council, Richard Ballard, the co-owner of Rocky Mountain, said “a 'county only' contract is not a viable economic option for us, at reduced contract prices.  That is, we need to serve both the county and city with ambulance service.” He addressed Council with a proposal to contract with the City for ambulance services at a special session prior to their budget session Friday afternoon.  He said Rocky Mountain could provide all of the city's ambulance needs for just over 100-thousand dollars a year—a much cheaper rate than the City is currently spending: . If these contracts go through, he says, he will have to expand his operations: . Currently Sheridan pays over 700-thousand annually for City ambulance services in addition to what they pay to subsidize County ambulance services. 

ANOTHER PLEA FOR ASSISTANCE DURING PROJECT GRADUATION TOMORROW NIGHT - As we reported yesterday, volunteers, especially parents of the SHS Junior Class, are needed to assist with the Project Graduation celebration, being held from 9 pm tomorrow night until 3 o'clock Monday morning at the Early Building in Sheridan. Planning committee member, Marcia Harper, reminds us the areas they need help: . Marcia says they especially need helpers to take the late night shifts – from 11 pm until 1 am, and then 1 am until 3 pm. The purpose of Project Graduation is to have a place for the graduates to go, have fun, play lots of games, eat lots of great food, and have the opportunity to win terrific and high-end prizes, all with the goal to keep them safe. If you'd like to help in the efforts, please contact Marcia at 752-3057 or Pam Harper at 672-7627.

Friday, May 25, 2007

BOMB THREAT SUSPECT MADE SEVERAL COURT APPEARANCES - Thomas Mines, the suspect in the bomb-threat case we heard about Wednesday, had two court appearances yesterday.
The first was in Sheridan District Court for his violating his.  Mines admitted to using  ethamphetamine while on probation, including the day he called the Courthouse and several schools with the bomb threat.  Because of these violations, Mines will have to go back to prison to serve out his previous 3 to 5 year sentence. Mines also appeared in Sheridan Circuit Court yesterday afternoon for the three new charges of making a “terrorist threat.”  According to court documents, Mines said his only intended to create a bomb scare at the courthouse.  He called several Sheridan schools and said “A bomb is going to blow up in the courtyard,” because he thought the call he made to the courthouse wasn't heard.  Mines had a court appearance for his probation violation Wednesday when he made the calls; he said his intent was to get court canceled. These calls were tracked to Mines' because two were made from his mother in laws' phone and one from the Loaf 'n' Jug near her house.  Mines was found hiding in the garage rafters at his mother in laws' house. Each terrorist threat is a felony punishable up to three years in prison.

REGIONAL 6TH GRADERS ATTEND “COLLEGE FOR A DAY” - A bright sunny day greeted about 160 6th grade students from Sheridan Jr. High School earlier this week, as they spent “College For a Day” at Sheridan College. Sponsored by the New Futures branch of the Western States Learning Corporation, the program is designed to get young peoples' minds thinking ahead to the studies they need to take if planning to attend college. Chris Smith is with Wyoming's headquarters in Cheyenne: 05-26-01. Casper College, Eastern Wyoming College in Torrington, Sheridan College and the University of Wyoming are all hosting students this spring, while Laramie County Community College will bring them in this fall. Sheridan Junior High School student, “Hailey” took a brisk stroll across campus and spoke with Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson on her thoughts of the day and the things that she learned: 05-26-02. The goal of “College For a Day” is to help students understand the importance of college planning, financial aid options, and setting goals for lifelong learning.  To find out more, check out their website

CONTROVERSIAL ANNEXATION BY SHERIDAN'S AIRPORT IS PUT TO RESTAURANT - The last few Sheridan City Council meetings the proposal to annex land by Absaraka and Airport roads in Sheridan was tabled.  The original hearing on the proposal produced a public outcry from residents in the area because if the land were annexed a higher density workforce housing development was in the works. It turns out the reason this was tabled for several subsequent City Council meetings is a deal was in the works.  David Edeen is the developer who had planned on building up by Absarka: 05-26-40However, one consequence of not developing near Absarka, David tells us: 05-26-40 David says the new project will be mostly brick houses, which is partly why they will be more expensive. Lee Domanic, who lives up by Absarka, was the original instigator for the trade.

DUI ARRESTS IN SHERIDAN ARE GOING UP - There is an increase the DUI arrests in Sheridan is what Police Chief Mike Card told Sheridan City Council at yesterday afternoon's budget session.  And that corresponds to an increase in costs to the City: 05-26-42. Chief Card says officers are becoming more adept at spotting drunk drivers, but there is an overall increase of intoxicated drivers, as well: 05-26-43. Chief Card didn't have specific numbers on hand, but said he saw a “significant spike” in DUI arrests over the last quarter. While the numbers dropped a bit during the stormy weather, he says he expects those numbers to climb again as we head into the summer season. 

SHERIDAN'S AMBULANCE SERVICES  - Sheridan County may not be able to contract with Rocky Mountain Ambulance services unless the City of Sheridan also has a contract with them. 
In a letter to Sheridan City Council, Richard Ballard, the Co-owner of Rocky Mountain, said “a 'county only' contract is not a viable economic option for us, at reduced contract prices.  That is, we need to serve both the county and city with ambulance service.” He addressed Council with a proposal to contract with the City for ambulance services at a special session prior to their budget session yesterday afternoon.  He said Rocky Mountain could provide all of the city's ambulance needs for just over 100-thousand dollars a year—a much cheaper rate than the City is currently spending: 05-26-45. If these contracts go through, he says, he will have to expand his operations: 05-26-46. Currently Sheridan pays over 700-thousand annually for City ambulance services in addition to what they pay to subsidize County ambulance services. 

ANOTHER PLEA FOR ASSISTANCE DURING PROJECT GRADUATION TOMORROW NIGHT - As we reported yesterday, volunteers, especially parents of the SHS Junior Class, are needed to assist with the Project Graduation celebration, being held from 9 pm tomorrow night until 3 o'clock Monday morning at the Early Building in Sheridan. Planning committee member, Marcia Harper, reminds us the areas they need help: 05-25-07.  Marcia says they especially need helpers to take the late night shifts – from 11 pm until 1 am, and then 1 am until 3 pm. The purpose of Project Graduation is to have a place for the graduates to go, have fun, play lots of games, eat lots of great food, and have the opportunity to win terrific and high-end prizes, all with the goal to keep them safe.  If you'd like to help in the efforts, please contact Marcia at 752-3057 or Pam Harper at 672-7627.

Friday, May 25, 2007

A STUDENT DROP-OUT CAUSES SOME ALARM AT SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL THIS MORNING - Sheridan High School students preparing to enjoy the annual student talent show this morning had a bit of a disruption, as Sheridan Police Detective Sergeant Tom Ringley Jr. explains: . Ringley says both the P.D. and Sheriff's office sent personnel to look for the young man: . The suspect is 18-year-old John Charles Telford of Sheridan.  Ringley says that after Wednesday's bomb threat scare, law enforcement weren't taking any chances: . Ringley wants to assure parents that the matter was handled swiftly, and the talent show went on without further disruption.

SHAC RECIEVES GRANT TO ASSIST IN GETTING PEOPLE HOMES THAT OTHERWISE COULDN'T AFFORD THEM - A special media conference was held late Thursday afternoon at Sheridan's City Hall to announce a major development regarding affordable housing. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: .    

THE CITY OF SHERIDAN AND THE COUNTY HAVE FINALIZED RULES FOR CBM IMPACT MONIES THAT WILL HELP WITH AFFORDABLE HOUSING - Also from Thursday's media conference, it was announced that the City of Sheridan and the County have agreed to finalize the rules on how to use some of the CBM impact money for infrastructure on affordable housing. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey: . Even with the latest good news Kinskey was realistic, saying, “the affordable housing issue is so huge,” that he doesn't want people's expectations to be too high regarding the latest developments.  He added that “we have a long way to go to make sure that every citizen in Sheridan who wants an affordable home can buy one.”

PROPERTY VALUE AND TAXES ... OH MY! -  The deadline to contest county property taxes is today, and County Assessor, Paul Fall, says its been quite a year: . So have there been a lot of folks wanting to “shoot the messenger?” . The mill levies, set by the County Commissioners, are currently at the maximum levels, but Paul says it isn't that easy just to lower the assessed mills: . Another problem with that option, Paul says: . Also, the Veteran's Tax Exemption was expanded by the Wyoming Legislature; veterans who haven't yet signed up have until next week to do so, and can contact the County Assessor's office for more info. 

PROPOSED REC FUNDING GOES BEFORE THE SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL - Richard Wright, Rec Director, presented the proposed budget for Sheridan Parks to City Council Thursday afternoon.  Their priorities, he says: . Richard also highlighted what Sheridan Rec has done with previous funding: . Paving the Thorn-Rider Park tennis courts and Smith Street parking lots is another priority, which they will try to do before the state baseball tournament. The new fiscal year starts July 1st.

MORE METH ARRESTS - Four individuals charged with “Conspiracy to Deliver Methamphetamines” were seen in Sheridan Circuit Court yesterday afternoon.  Both Brenda and Heath Smith received stiff bonds — 10-thousand dollars cash — largely because of their extensive criminal history.  Brenda has already served time for previous “Conspiracy to Deliver” convictions.  She also has “Possession of a Controlled Substance”, Failure to Appear in Court”, as well as “Driving Under the Influence” blighting her record.   Heath Smith has “Grand Theft”, “Assault”, “Possession of Controlled Substances”, several larceny convictions, Intent to Manufacture Controlled Substances”, “Shoplifting” and “Attempts to Bring a Controlled Substance into Jail” — to name a few — on his record. Jean Troutt, who allegedly conspired with the Smiths and delivered methamphetamine in the Sheridan-area, also received a 10-thousand dollar cash bond.  She has a couple larceny convictions on her record, as well as a probation violation.  Randy Trout, however, had no previous criminal history.  His 10-thousand dollar bond only required a thousand dollar cash payment up front.   Thomas Mines, who is charged with making the bomb threats at several Sheridan schools two days ago, will be seen in District Court (this morning at 9 am) and will also appear in Circuit Court this afternoon.

SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL R.O.C.K. STUDENTS RECEIVE PLEDGE CARDS AND SPECIAL HONORS - Thursday morning, members of the Sheridan High School R.O.C.K. organization held a year-end breakfast. Sheridan Media’s Mary Jo Johnson was in attendance and has this report:
.  Video of R.O.C.K.

PROJECT GRADUATION NEEDS PARENTS OF JUNIORS TO HELP VOLUNTEER FOR EVENT THIS WEEKEND - The Project Graduation planning committee has been hard at work getting the post-graduation, night-long celebration party fine-tuned, but for some reason, this year has brought about a shortage of junior class parents to help.  But if the party is for graduating seniors, why the need for junior class parents? A pre-payment for next year, says committee member Marcia Harper: . That having been said, the party will go on, and Marcia describes the various areas in which they still need assistance prior to Sunday night, as well as at the party: .  As for the shifts needing workers: . If you are the parent of a junior who will enjoy Project Graduation in 2008, and you don’t have plans for the Memorial Day weekend, please contact either Marcia or her mom, Pam Harper, who has served as Chairperson of Project Graduation this year. Pam Harper: 672-7627       Marcia Harper: 752-3057

WEATHER PERMITTING, THE ANNUAL MEMORIAL WEEKEND HANG GLIDING BUZZARD SQUADRON HOSTS A FLY-IN  - It's become an annual event for Memorial Day weekend – the Dayton Buzzard Squadron hang gliding club hosting a fly in at Sand Turn in the Big Horn Mountains – and this year is no exception. Squadron leader, Johann Nield, says that anyone who has flown off of the mountain at Sand Turn and landed in the designated areas has become a member of the Buzzard Squadron. Nield tells us about a major development regarding hang gliding in our area: . This, Johann says will make for a very special time this weekend: . Nield points out that there'll be hang gliders of all wings of life throughout the weekend: . So how did Johann become such an avid hang gliding fan? It all started back in 1976 at a family reunion, with a little help from his brother in law: . And as the saying goes, “the rest is history.” Nield encourages spectators to come out and watch this unique sport over the weekend, as they'll be taking flight from approximately 9 am until 4 pm at Sand Turn Saturday through Monday. 

Thursday, May 24, 2007

LOCAL AUTHORITIES MAKE AN ARREST IN WEDNESDAY MORNING'S STRING OF BOMB THREATS - Local authorities worked swiftly in tracking down the perpetrator whose actions struck fear into the hearts of many throughout Sheridan Wednesday morning by making numerous bomb threats. Detective Sergeant Tom Ringley with the Sheridan Police Department with the announcement: .Mines is twenty-two years old, and Ringley stated that he already had a warrant out for his arrest. So just how did authorities make the arrest so quickly? “Simple,” says Ringley: . Furthermore, Ringley adds: . Ringley couldn't comment on why Mines would commit such a heinous crime, a crime that may land him some serious prison time, as the act of making a bomb threat is considered a felony. And a correction – while there were reports that the Sheridan Post Office had also received threats, a call from Postmaster Jacob Weeder says that is false; the post office received NO threats Wednesday.

WYOMING HIGHWAY PATROL TO JOIN IN ON OPERATION C.A.R.E. FOR THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND - It's safe to say that one thing you can be sure of with Memorial Day weekend is that there's an influx of people hitting our nation's highways. That usually results in more careless drivers; thus the need for Operation C.A.R.E. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter explains: .

THE COST OF EVERYTHING IS GOING UP, INCLUDING THE COST OF DOING BUSINESS AT THE SHERIDAN PUBLIC UTILITIES DEPT - Prices just seem to be going up-up-up around here, and the cost of doing business is no exception.  Various departments are going before the Sheridan City Council to make their case for funding for the next fiscal year, the Sheridan Public Utilities Department went Wednesday afternoon.  City Engineer Mike Cole outlines their wish-list: . And how do costs compare to expected revenue? . So since they don't plan on baking a couple hundred-thousand loaves of banana bread and peanut butter cookies, how do they plan to make up the shortfall? . Mike says that will generate about 200-thousand dollars for the water and sewer fund, and the rest will be made up, he says: . Sheridan Public Works Department makes their final budget presentation to the Council today.

IT MAY “TAKE MONEY TO MAKE MONEY,” BUT IT ALSO “COSTS MONEY TO HAVE MONEY” -  An old saying is “it takes money to make money.”  But in this case, it costs money to have money. Some of Sheridan's streets have, you could say, a little more character than they should.  The City has put more funds as of late into fixing and rebuilding the more rickety of its roads.  But to keep these new roads in good shape also requires money. Pete Husman, City Operations Manager, requested 1.7-million dollars for his department this next budget cycle, which is necessary, he says, to live up to Council's expectations for road repair and maintenance: . This funding also includes snow removal, as well as funding for the parks and cemetery. 

“EXPERIENCE WORKS” IS WORKING TO PUT YOU TO WORK - Are you 55 years old or older?  Are you on a limited income, would like to work, but are also limited by skill level or ability?  A program in northern Wyoming may be just what you're looking for. Called “Experience Works”, and funded through a grant with the Department of Labor, regional director, Reatha Thomas describes what they do: . Most of the folks with whom Reatha works are on Social Security or   on disability but still might want to work.  Reatha says the training is quite unique: . Reatha says that you get paid as you train. Thomas adds that they're working in partnership with Sheridan College on another aspect of the program: . Thomas' office is located in Building 1 on the V.A. Medical Center's grounds, through a lease they provide to non-profit organizations.  Office hours are M–F, 9a–4p. There is plenty of parking and handicap access, too.  To learn more about “Experience Works”: Call Reatha Thomas:  (307) 673-1602 or Fax:  (307) 673-1678   Toll-Free:  1-800-450-5627 or email  Reatha_Thomas@experienceworks.org

WYOMING TO PARTICIPATE IN THE POLICY ACADEMY ON CIVIC ENGAGEMENT OF OLDER ADULTS - Wyoming has been selected to take part in the Policy Academy on Civic Engagement for Older Adults which focuses on helping states to improve the health and lives of older adults by developing strategies for increasing the numbers of seniors who are employed or involved in volunteer work. Wyoming Department of Workforce Services Policy Analyst, Jerimiah Rieman, points out that the state worked hard to become part of the Academy: . Rieman explains that the state hopes to gain a wealth of knowledge from attending the academy: . A nine person team from Wyoming, comprised of representatives from various state agencies, will head to Annapolis, Maryland July 25th  through the 27th to take part in the Policy Academy of Civic Engagement for Older Adults.

WHAT DO YOU FEED A 2,500 POUND HORSE? -  Radar, the tallest living horse, paid a visit to Sheridan Wednesday afternoon. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love stopped by Shipton's to check out this 25-hundred pound horse.  While there, she spoke with Charles Woods, Radar's handler, about what you feed this giant: . Doesn't sound like too bad a job... Radar, “the face of Preifert Ranch Equipment” is a nine-year-old Belgian Draft Horse.

s

Wednesday, May 23, 2007

ATTENTION LOCAL INNOVATORS! -  Attention local innovators: .That was Mark Weitz with Kennon Covers.  He was talking about a grant especially geared towards smaller companies: . And the best part about this grant for entrepreneurs?   . Next to Laramie, Sheridan is second in receiving the most of these grants in the State.  Local companies who have received these grants are Kennon Aircraft Covers, Big Horn Valve, Aspect Consulting, Wyoming Sawmills, InterMountain Labs, Big Horn Aviation, Mountain Meadow Wool and Aquamatrix International.  And representatives from each will be at the Wingate Inn in Sheridan tonight for a public presentation on these grants. . Again, they will be at the Wingate Inn tonight from 7 to 9. 

IF YOU WANT TO KEEP YOUR KIDS SAFE,THE BEST WAY IS NOT TO TRY AND RESCUE THEM - Though the suspicious phone call at the Sheridan County Courthouse this morning and the bomb threats at two local schools we heard about this morning turned out not to be credible, that didn't stop some worried parents from trying to rescue their child from the perceived harm.  And though it is understandable that a parent's instinct would drive them to make sure their child is okay and take them to safety, it is important for parents to understand they are actually putting those children at more risk by following their instincts in these situations.  Fire Chief Patrick Reitz: . And worried parents should also remember EMS personnel have contingency plans in place for these situations: . The who and why for these bomb threats is still under investigation.

BOMB THREATS ARE A CRIME - The bomb threats for the Sheridan Junior High and High School, and the suspicious phone call in to the Sheridan County Courthouse this morning turned out not to be credible.  School is back in session and the Courthouse has reopened, and Sheridan Police and the Sheriff's Office are still investigating who and why these threats were made.Sheridan Media's Betsy Love spoke with Police Chief Mike Card about this event: . Sheridan City Councilman Robert Webster adds: . We will keep you updated as information about the investigation becomes available.

WHY DO PEOPLE MAKE BOMB THREATS? - Though it seems like bomb threats at schools happen frequently, School Psychologist, and Crisis Team Coordinator for Sheridan County School District 2, Servio Carroll, tells Sheridan Media's Betsy Love that actually is not the case: .The bomb threats which happened are still under investigation.

TWO SCHOOL BOMB THREATS AND A SUSPICIOUS PHONE CALL IN SHERIDAN THIS MORNING - Things are back to normal, according to Servio Carroll, the Crisis Team Coordinator for Sheridan County School District 2.  He gives us a rundown of what took place this morning: Where do they go from here? . Carroll reminds those with questions: . Captain Scott Chander is the P.D.'s Public Information Officer for this case. We originally had reported that the Sheridan County Courthouse had received a bomb threat, but a call from Sheriff Dave Hofmeier clarifies that they received a suspicious phone call and that part of the case is under investigation as well.

BOMB THREAT UPDATE As of 10:10am, Sheridan High School and Sheridan Junior High School are back in session, and the Courthouse has returned to business as usual.

BOMB THREATS BEING HANDLED BY THE SHERIDAN POLICE DEPARMENT AND THE SHERIDAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE Just before 9 this morning, Sheridan County Law Enforcement received a call that three bomb threats had been made – one at the Sheridan County Courthouse, one at Sheridan High School, and one at the Sheridan Junior High School.As of 9:45 this morning, Police Chief Mike Card reports that Sheridan High School is back in session, after officers and staff scoured every classroom.  The Sheriff's office, which handled the County Courthouse, reports that everything is back to normal there. A search is still underway at the Sheridan Jr. High School, and the students are in a safe location in the school.  Police Chief Card urges parents to keep away from the school, as they are hampering the efforts of the law enforcement and fire-rescue personnel conducting the searches of the classrooms. We will keep you posted as the situation develops, but law enforcement want to assure the public that they have the situation under control.

SHERIDAN COUNTY DISPATCHERS HAVE A BONE TO PICK WITH AREA YOUNGSTERS USING CELL PHONES - They're there 24-7, 365 days a year, at the ready to take your emergency phone calls.  But the Sheridan County dispatchers can't provide the timely and critical assistance necessary when pranksters are tying up the 911 lines.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the story: .

WEATHER OUTLOOK MAY NOT BE AS BAD AS FIRST THOUGHT - Sheridan County remains under a flood watch through tomorrow morning; however, the good news is there's a chance that we won't see as much precipitation as what was predicted earlier in the week . Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: .

WHAT WILL THE NEW SAWS RATES BE?  WE'RE CLOSER TO KNOWING THE ANSWER - The Sheridan Area Water Supply Board discussed rate changes at a work session held last evening.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the details: . 

SHERIAN PUBLIC WORKS TALKS “BUDGET” WITH THE CITY COUNCIL - Sheridan Public Works presented their budget requests for capital improvement projects at a Sheridan City Council work session yesterday afternoon.  And what is at the top of their wish list?  Sheridan Public Works Director Rod Liesinger tells us: . Rod adds that it is difficult to just single out a few projects, as they have at least a few dozen Capital Improvement Projects they are hoping to fund.   And though projecting costs years out isn't easy he says:   . Public work sessions are scheduled for noon through the rest of the week.

WYOMING GAME AND FISH SEEKS PUBLIC'S HELP IN GATHERING DATA - The Wyoming Game and Fish department is looking for wildlife watchers to help find a few obscure wildlife species around the state. The program, entitled “The Species of the Season Challenge” is a way for the public to help the Game and Fish locate species listed as in greatest conservation need in the “State Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy.”  Game and Fish Biological Services Supervisor, Reg Rothwell, explains a little bit about the program: . If you're interested in helping the Game and Fish with data collection,  visit
http://gf.state.wy.us/wildlife/nongame/SpeciesChallenge/index.asp

Tuesday, May 22, 2007

ACCIDENT UPDATE DETAILS ARE IN FROM THE WYOMING HIGHWAY PATROL ON FATALITY ACCIDENT MONDAY MORNING - Word is in from the Wyoming Highway Patrol about the identities of the two people killed in the Monday morning collision on I-90, fifteen miles south of Sheridan.In a report from Sgt. Steve Townsend, Delmont, South Dakota residents Darwin and Teresa Statler, ages 57 and 53 respectively, had just entered the construction zone heading east in a Volkswagen Passat.  Driving westbound in a 2004 Ford F-250 pick-up was Buffalo resident Gerald Kaufmann, age 68, who didn't negotiate the curve, crashing through two of the construction zone traffic barrels.Kaufmann's truck then entered the eastbound lane, where it traveled approximately 88 feet, crashing head-on into the Statler's car.  Townsend estimates that the speed of both vehicles was about 60 miles an hour in the 65 mile zone.Sadly, all were wearing seat belts, and the air bags in both vehicles did deploy, but the path of travel and the difference in size between the truck and the car provided no opportunity for survival for the South Dakota couple.Kaufmann is hospitalized at the Johnson County Memorial Hospital in Buffalo.

SHERIDAN TECHNICAL INNOVATORS HAVE A CHANCE TO SPARK THEIR IDEAS TOMORROW - Sheridan residents with an entrepreneurial spirit and technical ideas are invited to attend a motivating presentation tomorrow evening at the Wingate Inn in Sheridan.  Spokesman Gene Watson explains: . These sources of funding are available to virtually all for-profit Wyoming-based small businesses and sole proprietorships.  Gene tells us how the program benefited a couple of Johnson County women: . Locally, Big Horn Valve won a couple grants from NASA, and Kennon Aircraft Covers won a contract with the United States Navy.  In fact, over the past ten years, nine technology-based Sheridan-area small businesses have received more then 7.5 million dollars in federal Research & Development grants to develop their innovative product concepts, averaging more than 800-thousand dollars per business. Gene does say that while anyone can attend the event, the available grants are really for a specialized audience: . Co-sponsored by the Wyoming Business Council and the University of Wyoming Office of Research & Economic Development, the presentation runs tomorrow night from 7 to 9 at the Sheridan Wingate Inn.  To make reservations, through Kelly - 1-866-703-3280

SHERIDAN CIRCUIT COURT UPDATE - William Britton had his initial appearance in Sheridan Circuit Court yesterday afternoon for failing to register as a sex offender.  He had previously pled guilty in Rawlins for the same crime.  Britton had registered with the Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office with an address on Main Street in Sheridan.  However, attempts to locate him at that address were unsuccessful; the current resident at that location said Britton had stayed their for a couple nights a few months ago, but believed Britton was currently staying with his girlfriend, Libby Black.  When deputies went to what they believed to be Libby Black’s address, according to the information they had, the current occupant said the previous ones had moved out and the landlord was seeking money for damages to the property.   During his court appearance, Britton insisted he could show he actually had been residing at the address he registered under, if they gave him just a half an hour to contact his landlord.  He also insisted the charges against him were unjust and he was being “harassed.”   Failure to register as a sex offender is a felony punishable by a fine of one thousand dollars and imprisonment for up to five years. Matthew Myrick and Nicole Ducheneaux also had their initial appearances in Sheridan Circuit Court yesterday afternoon.  Myrick is charged with burglary and Ducheneaux is charged with accessory after the fact.  Myrick allegedly stole numerous electronic items, including a cell phone and a portable DVD player from a Sheridan apartment.  Ducheneaux allegedly helped Myrick hide the stolen items, although was not present when they were stolen.  Though Ducheneaux initially tried to conceal her relationship with Myrick, she later admitted to having an affair with him, as she is currently married and three months pregnant.   Burglary is a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years with a fine of up to $10,000.  Accessory after the fact is a felony punishable by imprisonment for u to three years and carries a potential fine of $3,000.

THE WYOMING BUSINESS COUNCIL IS LOOKING AT GRANT APPLICATIONS TOMORROW - Starting tomorrow, the Wyoming Business Council Board of Directors will be reviewing grant applications for the Business-Ready Communities.   Some of the the local grant requests include almost 800-thousand dollars for the Sheridan County Airport Business Park; a nearly 1.5 million dollar request from the Johnson County/Buffalo Chamber of Commerce to purchase a building for start-up company Mountain Meadow Wool; and almost 3-million for the Childhood Education Center for Sheridan.   Steve Achter, Director of Investment of the Business-Ready Communities Division: . Steve says there is a tiered priority list when considering the grant applications.  The top priority, he says, is when there is an identified business that will create well-paying jobs: . And those projects a bit lower on the scale? .  What if the same community applies for several grants? . The Wyo Business Council will make recommendations to the SLIB Board, who will make the final determinations.  The SLIB Board meeting to discuss these grants is slated for June 7th and they will make their final determination by June 21st.  In total, the Board will consider over 27-million worth of grant requests.  

CUTTING THE 'WASTE' OUT OF 'WASTE WAS A TOPIC FOR THE SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING - Cutting the 'waste out of waste' was one of the topics at last night's Sheridan City Council meeting.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love was in attendance and has this report: .

SHERIDAN SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 PLOWS THROUGH A BIG AGENDA - Just as students are finishing up the school year with tests, papers, final projects, and such, the Sheridan School District 2 Board of Trustees tackled a large end-of-school-year agenda at their May meeting Monday night. Before launching down the list of old and new business, Trustees heard a presentation from Mrs. Corfanta's 9th grade science class on how the school district and students might implement more energy-efficient practices.  They also recognized John Rotellini and Susie Stone for their participation in the Legislative Page Program – the two are students in Tyson Emborg's AP Government class. Assistant Superintendent Terry Burgess requested that the Trustees consider altering the student attendance boundary for Sagebrush and Highland Park Elementary Schools to shift students who live north and west of Mydland Road to attend Highland Park, as Sagebrush is, in Burgess' words, “splitting at the seams”. Assistant Superintendent Tom Sachse reported that as of the first of two Kindergarten registrations, there are 164 children beginning school in the district this fall.  Sachse also presented information on the Consolidated Grant Action Plan, in which District 2 would oversee Holy Name's Title 1 program.  But wait a minute – isn't Holy Name a private school? . Trustees approved the 2007-2008 Student Handbooks, with corrections, for Sheridan High School, Sheridan Junior High, and Fort MacKenzie/The Wright Place; they approved several Business Office-related items that must be addressed each year – everything from renewal of a benefit plan to permission to bid various services for the District, to approval of the preliminary budget. The board may consider a request from Verizon Wireless and Alltel Communications to put a Cellular Tower at SHS Field – they want more information before making the decision; and after Executive Session, Trustees appointed Dwayne Jacobs to fill the Trustee position recently vacated by Dave DeBolt.  Attending her first meeting after filling former Trustee Chrysti Bluemel's seat – Stephanie Cole, who says she has close ties to the District: . Trustees also approved a one-year medical leave-of-absence for Ft. MacKenzie teacher Angela Romanjenko, and established several new part-time and full-time positions, including an Athletic Trainer, a School Nutritionist, and an Assistant Principal position at Sheridan Jr. High School, among others.

BIG NEWS FOR SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL! - At Monday night's School District 2 board meeting, Sheridan High School Principal, Dirleen Wheeler, proudly approached the podium with a special announcement.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has more: .    

UW STUDENTS IN THE WYOMING CONSERVATION CORP HAVE BEEN BUSY WITH AN ARRAY OF PROJECTS - University of Wyoming students in the new Wyoming Conservation Corps have started work on projects ranging from trail construction in Curt Gowdy State Park, to cleaning and rehabilitating a state land section west of Casper.  Wyoming Conservation Corp Director ,Nick Agopian, explains how the development of the WWC benefits the students and the agencies with whom they're working: .This year the State Legislature approved a three year, three hundred twelve thousand dollar appropriation to help establish the program, which is also supported by grants from the Wyoming Community Foundation and Serve Wyoming.

Monday, May 21, 2007

ACCIDENT TWO DEAD FROM HEAD ON COLLISION THIS MORNING IN SHERIDAN COUNTY - A head on collision this morning on I-90 fifteen miles south of Sheridan at mile post thirty nine has claimed the lives of two individuals. The Wyoming Highway Patrol has not yet released information regarding the identity of the two, however, Sgt. Stephen Townsend stated that the head on collision involved a passenger car and a pickup truck.  Both persons in the car died at the scene while the individual in the truck has been transported to the hospital.  Highway Patrol were assisted at the scene by two ambulances and a fire truck from Sheridan Fire Rescue and and engine from the Story Fire District. Sgt. Townsend said that the identities of those killed in the crash would not be released until tomorrow.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE S.I.F.E. STUDENTS FARE VERY WELL AT NATIONAL COMPETITION EARLIER THIS MONTH - You've heard us report this spring about the great work the Students in Free Enterprise have done locally and in state and regional competitions.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has word about their experience at Nationals: