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MAY 2007 NEWS ARCHIVE

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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: Audio. 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: Audio.      

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: Audio.        

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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. And Cathy Kindt says an added plus is the deal they got on upgraded software for the units: Audio. 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: Audio.   Video of Dr. Pete Carricaburu's lesson in sheep Sheep Lesson

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: Audio. Also, Cleveland hopes that state license buyers aren't asked to shoulder the burden: Audio. 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? Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. Ringley tells us what the officers learned upon arriving: Audio. Ringley had no update as to the victim's status.  As for the driver: Audio. 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: Audio.     


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: Audio


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: Audio. 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”: Audio.

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: Audio.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:    Audio. The Commission also considered and approved a request to create four new commercial lots west of US Highway 87: Audio. 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: Audio.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Video of Eaton's Horse Drive 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: Audio. 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: Audio.   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: Audio.      

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: Audio. For those who may still be uncertain as to what the Sheridan CiViC   Project is about, Jenny reminds us: Audio. It's time very well spent, Jenny says: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio.  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: Audio.  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: Audio. 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: Audio. Craig explains that there are many participants in this years parade:Audio. 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:Audio. Also in Cambodia, he says:Audio. The Hollandsworths have also done extensive “helps” work in Kenya:Audio. 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:Audio. 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:  Audio. 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

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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. 

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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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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:Audio . However, one consequence of not developing near Absaraka, David tells us: Audio. 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:Audio . Chief Card says officers are becoming more adept at spotting drunk drivers, but there is an overall increase of intoxicated drivers, as well: Audio. 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: Audio. If these contracts go through, he says, he will have to expand his operations: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. Ringley says both the P.D. and Sheriff's office sent personnel to look for the young man: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio.    

Sheridan Community Snapshot

District 2 Teacher Retirement Party
Five of the nine District 2 Teachers celebrate their retirement at a party May 24th.
From left to right: Ken Lundgren, Sue Vredenburg, Susan Appell, Joan Nelson, and Jan Parker

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: Audio. 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: Audio. So have there been a lot of folks wanting to “shoot the messenger?” Audio. 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: Audio. Another problem with that option, Paul says: Audio. 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: Audio. Richard also highlighted what Sheridan Rec has done with previous funding: Audio. 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:
AudioVideo of R.O.C.K. 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: Audio. 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: Audio.  As for the shifts needing workers: Audio. 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: Audio. This, Johann says will make for a very special time this weekend: Audio. Nield points out that there'll be hang gliders of all wings of life throughout the weekend: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio.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: Audio. Furthermore, Ringley adds: Audio. 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: Audio.

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: Audio. And how do costs compare to expected revenue? Audio. 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? Audio. Mike says that will generate about 200-thousand dollars for the water and sewer fund, and the rest will be made up, he says: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. Rieman explains that the state hopes to gain a wealth of knowledge from attending the academy: Audio. 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: Audio. Doesn't sound like too bad a job... Radar, “the face of Preifert Ranch Equipment” is a nine-year-old Belgian Draft Horse.

 

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Wednesday, May 23, 2007

ATTENTION LOCAL INNOVATORS! -  Attention local innovators: Audio.That was Mark Weitz with Kennon Covers.  He was talking about a grant especially geared towards smaller companies: Audio. And the best part about this grant for entrepreneurs?   Audio. 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. Audio. 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: Audio. And worried parents should also remember EMS personnel have contingency plans in place for these situations: Audio. 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: Audio. Sheridan City Councilman Robert Webster adds: Audio. 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? Audio. Carroll reminds those with questions: Audio. 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 Community Snapshot


Big Horn High School Humanities Class
Mitch Craft's Humanities Class members, after giving their Senior Project presentation
May 22, 2007

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: Audio.

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: Audio.

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: Audio

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: Audio. 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:   Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio. And those projects a bit lower on the scale? Audio.  What if the same community applies for several grants? Audio. 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: Audio.

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? Audio. 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: Audio. 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: Audio.    

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: Audio.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:Audio

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL WILL TALK PATHS AND MORE TONIGHT - The final plat at Whitney Minor Park Subdivision; a revised agreement for York Place Planned Unit Development; awarding bids for the Sheridan Water Treatment Plant Disinfection and Coagulation Improvements Project; and trading land with WY-DOT are all on the agenda for Sheridan City Council Meeting tonight.  But don't expect the whole meeting to be about completely serious matter, Councilwoman Mona Hanson tells us: Audio. Council meets on the 3rd floor of Sheridan City Hall tonight at 7.  You can also listen to the broadcast live on AM 1410, KWYO.

SAWS RATE INCREASES WILL BE DISCUSSED AGAIN TOMORROW - The Sheridan Area Water Supply Board would have to increase rates dramatically to cover their costs.  But a huge rate jump would be politically unpopular and might put residents on fixed incomes in a bind.  Still, the Board will have to do something, and they are having a series of public meetings to discuss this issue.  Tuesday they will discuss this issue and more in an afternoon workshop.  They will talk water supply during the first section of the meeting which starts at 2:30 at Sheridan College C-Tel room.  At 4 is when they will be talking rates, and the public is welcome to attend one or both parts of the meeting.  Again, it all gets under way at 2:30 Tuesday afternoon in the Sheridan College C-Tel Room.

SHERIDAN POLICE AND FIRE OPEN HOUSES WERE THIS WEEKEND - The annual open house at the Sheridan Fire and Police Departments were over the weekend.  Sheridan City Councilwoman Mona Hanson spoke with Sheridan Media's Betsy Love over the phone about the event: Audio. Also experiencing the taser was Sheridan resident Jamie St. Pierre. Six nationally certified safety seat technicians kept busy with their portion of the Fire Department's event – 33 safety seats were checked, three of which required replacement.  The checkpoint was a cooperative effort between Sheridan Fire-Rescue, Safe Kids, The Wellness Council of Memorial Hospital and Child Care FindersAs for Mona, she learned a few things at the police department: Audio.

WE'LL HEAR MORE IN-DEPTH ABOUT THE REGIONAL RESPONSE TEAM AND THE LIFE OF A PARAMEDIC - Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson brings us this report from what she learned at the Fire Department's open house: Audio.    

Sheridan Community Snapshot


Kalif Shriners Statue Dedication
Phoenix Stewart shows her sentiments at the Kalif Shriner's Statue Dedication for funding surgeries, so she can walk.
May 19, 2007

BIG HORN HIGH SCHOOLHUMANITIES PRESENTATIONS TONIGHT AND TOMORROW - As Graduation Day draws near, Big Horn High School seniors in the Humanities program have something big happening tonight and tomorrow night.  Principal George Mirich explains: Audio. The Humanities students have been working on extensive research projects that analyze the concept of influence as it relates to their chosen topics, which range from climate change to gender identity to pole vault technology – in short, whatever piqued their interest to research. The group will be split between the two evenings, Mirich says: Audio. Both presentations begin at 5:30 in the Watt Agriculture Building on the Sheridan College campus, this evening and tomorrow.

THE DOWNTOWN SHERIDAN ASSOCIATION IS HAVING THEIR ANNUAL MEETING TOMORROW - Well, it only happens once a year and tomorrow is the day.  We're talking about the Sheridan Downtown Association Annual meeting. DSA Executive Director, Roger Bent, says they will recognize about 20 or so who have made contributions to the downtown.   Also planned for the meeting: Audio.  Not only is everyone from the public invited, but there will be Hors D'oeuvre and a cash bar as well.  It starts at 5:30 Tuesday night at the Best Western Sheridan Center. 

OUR WEEKLY POLL QUESTION ASKS HOW MUCH YOU'D BE WILLING TO PAY FOR RECYCLING SERVICE - Last week the response was overwhelmingly in favor of getting recycling services going in the City of Sheridan.  This week, we put those in favor to the test with our weekly poll question:  How much would you be willing to spend for that service: Audio.   Let us know what you'd be willing to pay –vote on our poll question, then leave comments in our Forum.  Tune in during Open Line Friday to hear the results, on Newstalk 930 KROE.

 

Sunday, May 20, 2007

SPECIALTIES FROM SICILY MIX WITH MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE AT SHERIDAN'S NEWEST RESTAURANT - Specialties from Sicily mix with Middle Eastern Cuisine at Sheridan's newest restaurant, “Little Italy and Kabob House.”  Across from Centennial Theaters, this was the first weekend the new restaurant was open.  Mohommad Khan, who is a partner in the business with his brother, Rashad, tells us the vision behind the restaurant: Audio. And are there any specialties? Audio. You can check it out yourself, Mondays through Saturdays, 11 - 9.

SOME GET ALL THE ATTENTION — ESPECIALLY WITH ENDANGERED SPECIES - Some guys get all the attention; that is certainly the case with endangered species.  In Wyoming, bald eagles, grizzly bears and gray wolves have all benefited from the Endangered Species Act.  For instance, there are now eighty-five breeding pairs of bald eagles in Wyoming. But Cory Westbrook with the National Wildlife Federation says they've just completed a study of wildlife listed under the Act, and there is definitely a connection between money and an endangered species recovering: Audio. There are 17-listed endangered species in Wyoming, including flowers and toads, and they have to share that funding with hundreds nationwide.  So if you aren't on the endangered A-list, you might not be as lucky: Audio. Wildlife lovers observed National Endangered Species Day on Friday.

THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SALUTES EMS VOLUNTEERS AND PROFESSIONALS - In honor of EMS week that just ended Saturday, the director of the Wyoming Department of Health, Dr. Brent Sherard, took time to salute the state's emergency medical services, or EMS providers: Audio. In 2005, Wyoming EMS interventions helped save an estimated 2,077 lives and helped avert nearly 25-hundred permanent disabilities, and did you know, Sherard says: Audio. The Office of Emergency Services in the Wyoming Department of Health provides training, and ensures quality pre-hospital emergency care by certifying personnel, licensing ambulance services, inspecting vehicles, providing technical assistance and administrative support.

GOVERNOR'S SUMMIT ON WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS TO DISCUSS HOUSING THIS WEEK - This month ends and the next begins with the 3rd annual Governor's Summit on Workforce Solutions, held this Thursday and Friday at the Snow King resort in Jackson. Jointly sponsored by the Wyoming Workforce Development Council and the Department of Workforce Services, the Summit is designed to assist Wyoming businesses in developing solutions to the many workforce issues they face. Jerimiah Rieman is a policy analyst for the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services and a key organizer for the Summit.  He tells us what the General Session will showcase: Audio. Along with the panelists' discussions, Reiman says: Audio. Adding to the two-day event is a workshop led by bestselling author, Jason Dorsy, a 28-year-old who will speak about five creative ways to retain young professionals within your organization. A main reason for the summit?  Because of the state's low population, consistently low unemployment rate and continuing economic growth, Wyoming's industries are struggling to hire and retain the skilled workforce they need to prosper.

LOCAL ELEMENTARY TEACHER ONE OF 25 ACROSS THE STATE TO WIN A “GOLDEN APPLE” FROM ARCH COAL - Highland Park Elementary teacher, Molly Kinsey, was the only teacher from Sheridan County school districts 1, 2, and 3 to be awarded one of 25 Golden Apples from Arch Coal. Molly didn't hear of her award until Sheridan Media contacted her at the end of school day Friday.  With her son Brandon strumming his guitar in the background, she talks about her initial nomination: Audio. Molly was one of the key organizers to involve the Highland Park student body in the money raising efforts to read for the International Heiffer Project: Audio. So why does Molly Kinsey enjoy teaching? Audio. Officials with the company say that the Arch Coal teacher recognition program is unique in the state, because it asked the public to nominate the teachers and then the nominees are judged by their peers. This is the seventh year Arch Coal has made the awards in Wyoming.

 

Saturday, May 19, 2007

GOVERNOR SAYS WYOMING'S WOLF STATUTE IS STATE'S WOLF PLAN - Wyoming's recently-passed statute governing the management of the gray wolf is also the state's wolf plan, says Governor Dave Freudenthal. The Governor states that U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regional Director, Mitch King, knows where Wyoming stands on the issue:Audio. Furthermore Freudenthal adds:Audio. Despite the Fish and Wildlife Service's request that the state develop a new wolf management plan in order to be included in it's final rule to remove the animals from the Endangered Species List, Freudenthal said that the state's legislation does not allow for such a move without the meeting of pre-conditions included in the legislation.  He added that the fulfillment of those pre-conditions is largely within the power of the federal government.

WYOMING BUSINESS COUNCIL ANNOUNCED THEY'VE FOUND THEIR MAN - Over the past four months, the Wyoming Business Council's Board of Directors has been busy searching for a new CEO to replace the outgoing Tucker Fagan. The process included reviewing more than sixty resumes, conducting interviews and performing background checks and psychological profiles on a number of candidates. They recently whittled it down seven – three from Wyoming and four from out of state – and now they have their guy in Bob Jensen, who for the past three years has served as Chief Operating Officer for the Business Council.  Jensen says he's going take a proactive approach with his new position:Audio. Co-Chair of the board, Karla Fiebelkorn, explains that time and time again, Jensen's name kept rising to the top: Audio. Jensen will start as CEO on June 15th and will earn a salary of 134-thousand dollars a year.

KALIF SHRINE TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS TODAY - The Kalif Shrine is celebrating their 100th anniversary with numerous activities planned throughout today and tonight. The events start this afternoon at 2 o'clock with a dedications, says Shrine Member Claude Hodges:   Audio. As Claude explains, the statue dedication is just the beginning of the fun: Audio. Things will culminate with a reception dinner at 5 pm at the Kalif Shrine building on West Loucks, which is for members only, followed by dancing and presentation of awards, which will be conducted by former U.S. Senator Alan Simpson.  

MAKING THE COMMONPLACE UNCOMMON AT SHERIDAN'S PUBLIC LIBRARY - Looking for a little culture this weekend?  Librarian Cathy Butler has a suggestion:Audio. What sorts of pieces does he do? Audio. And which is Cathy's favorite? Audio. You can check out and figure out your favorite photo — the show is on display in the mezzanine at Sheridan's Fulmer Public Library through next Friday.       

HOW MUCH MONEY IS CBM CONTRIBUTING TO THIS BUDGET CYCLE? - We all know that CBM brings big “bling” to our local economies — but how much?  That is an important question for local governments that are working through budgets right now.  B.J. Kristiansen with the CBM Coalition tells us how much of the budget pie is CBM-derived for Sheridan County?   Audio. And as everyone is concerned about the boom-bust nature of energy, how long does he think we can expect this kind of revenue? Audio. The Coalbed Methane Coalition is composed of four county commissioners from Johnson, Carbon, Sheridan and Sweetwater counties, as well as district supervisors from Lake DeSmet and Campbell County conservation districts.  There is also a representative from the methane operators.    

ITALY MEETS THE MIDDLE EAST IN SHERIDAN'S NEWEST RESTAURANT -  Specialties from Sicily mix with Middle Eastern cuisine at Sheridan's newest restaurant, “Little Italy and Kabob House.”  Across from Cenntenial Theaters, it opened its doors Friday afternoon.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love sat down and spoke with the first two customers who both, fittingly, work at the Sheridan Chamber of Commerce. Kim Detmer, as well as the new Chamber Director, Janelle Martinsen  ,give us their reaction: Audio. “Little Italy and Kabob House” is open Monday through Saturday, 11-9.  It is owned by Rashad  and Mohhamad Khan.

 

Friday, May 18, 2007

A NEW BUILDING IS ON SHERIDAN POLICE DEPARTMENT'S WISH LIST - As the City of Sheridan is in the process of crafting a budget, various departments are having lunch work sessions with the City Council to go over their requested budgets and department needs.  An inadequate police department building was the talk during Thursday's session.  Ironically, the building is in violation of the law because it doesn't meet City sewer codes, and also falls short of federal regs; for instance having adequate access for people with disabilities is one of the problems with the current facility. But there are other problems which were laid out in the nearly completed Needs Assessment Survey.  Police Chief Mike Card tells us: Audio. To bring the current building up to code would cost roughly one-million dollars, and a new facility would run around 12-million.  There is also talk of expanding the current facility. Councilman O'Leary joked that they could just move into the old “Kentucky Fried Chicken” building, but as Sheridan Media's Betsy Love discovered while talking with Chief Card, that option is probably deader than a deep-fried drumstick: Audio. Expansion costs would probably run in the 7-million dollar range.  If they do go with a new building, they are looking at ways to offset the costs by possibly selling the current section of the building to the  County, as well as applying for grants.

WE'LL TELL YOU SOMETHING SUPRISING ABOUT CBM - Something you may not realize is that coal bed methane is a renewable resource.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love with more: Audio.    

FIRE DEPARTMENT AND POLICE DEPARTMENT WILL HOLD INDIVIDUAL OPEN HOUSES TOMORROW - The public is invited to attend two City of Sheridan departmental open houses tomorrow. The Fire Department will honor the EMS workers and their commitment to the community.  Fire Marshall Brian Songer tells us what will happen: Audio. And parents of infants and toddlers will have a service provided them with a child passenger safety seat checkpoint. Fire personnel will also be bbq-ing some lunch.  The EMS Open House runs from 9 am until 2 pm at the Fire Station on Scott Street in Sheridan. Out on North Main Street, just behind the old Kentucky Fried Chicken, is where you'll find the Sheridan Police Department for Open House Number 2.  Detective Sgt. Tom Ringley says: Audio.  Ringley says that during the Special Response Team demonstrations, they'll be deploying a loud flash, which might necessitate you bringing some ear plugs.  Other agencies will be on hand to meet folks, too, including visiting law enforcement from Ranchester, Sheridan College and the V.A., Rocky Mountain Ambulance, Volunteers of America and Game & Fish. The Police Department's annual open house runs from tomorrow from 10 am until around 1 pm, and they, too, will be cooking up some lunch in the parking lot behind the station.  Both the Police and Fire Departments' events are designed for the public to get to know law enforcement and fire personnel in an informal setting.

NORTHWEST COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT BOARD REPORT  - The Northern Wyoming Community College District board met for their May meeting last night.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the report: Audio.    

WE'VE GOT ANOTHER ANNOUNCEMENT THAT IS SURE TO PLEASE FANS AT THIS YEAR'S SHERIDAN WYO RODEO - The good news about this year's Sheridan Wyo Rodeo just keeps coming as the latest announcement will allow rodeo fans an even more up-close view of the action.  Since 2004, Zoli Television Productions has provided a Jumbotron for the event. Rodeo Board Member Doug Meier says this year will be bigger and better: Audio. Aside from better clarity and an overall bigger screen, Meier says the upgrade is for the benefit of the viewers sitting in the grandstandes that were added for last year's rodeo.  Methan energy companies Huber and Baker are once again sponsoring the Jumbotron as they have since it's inception in 2004.

HISTORY CHANNEL CREW FILMS GRASSHOPPER EXPERTS AT U-W FOR AN UPCOMING DOCUMENTARY - Crews from the History Channel recently spent some time in Laramie at the University of Wyoming for an upcoming documentary. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter explains: Audio.

HELP IS HERE EXPRESS BUS WILL BE IN SHERIDAN THIS AFTERNOON TO HELP WITH PRESCRIPTION ASSISTANCE - Throughout this week, the Help is Here bus has been making stops at various cities and towns around the state, and this afternoon they'll be  in Sheridan. The bus tour is part of the Partnership for Prescription Assistance, a national effort sponsored by America's Pharmaceutical Research companies. Jeff Gilbert with Partnership for Prescription Assistance explains what they're doing: Audio. Gilbert says to make sure to bring a list of your medications, and that people should also have a rough estimate of their monthly or yearly income. Jeff tells what's next once you climb aboard the bus: Audio. and then: Audio. The Help is Here bus will be at the Sheridan Salvation Army Thrift Store on Coffeen Avenue this afternoon from 2 to 4. If you are interested in prescription assistance but can't make it today, visit www.pparx.org  or call 1-888-4PPA-NOW

SALVATION ARMY OF SHERIDAN CELEBRATES NINETY ONE YEARS OF SERVICE IN THE COMMUNITY WITH AN OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY - To celebrate ninety-one years of serving the Sheridan community, Salvation Army will be holding an open house tomorrow from 10 am to 2 pm at their downtown location on the corner of Tschirgi and Burkett Streets. Captain Jason Gill explains what the open house will entail: Audio. Gill says that he'll be doing periodic presentations throughout the day as well, giving a history of the Salvation Army both nationally and globally.An added perk for those who attend the open house:  you'll receive a twenty-five percent off coupon for the Salvation Army Thrift store. Once again, the Salvation Army open house will be tomorrow from 10 am till 2 pm at the downtown location on the corner of Tschirgi and Burkett Streets.

SHERIDAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL CONTINUES MIXING SCIENCE AND ART - Sheridan Memorial Hospital continues mixing science and art.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love: Audio. Click here for Brochure

 

Thursday, May 17, 2007

KEEPING YOUNG FOLKS AROUND IS IMPORTANT - It is commonly recognized that providing more childcare, housing and workers would all boost short and long-term local economic development.  But there is another component of economic vitality that Forward Sheridan is looking to address.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the story: Audio.

KEEPING UP WITH BUSINESS - They started the business six years ago and now according to owner Kyle Williams, “they are busier than they know how to be most days.” Big Horn Granite and Marble was this month's location for the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours.  They featured some of their new equipment, which as Kyle tells us: Audio. Sheridan Chamber After Hours features a different local business on the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month.

THERE MIGHT BE SOMETHING NEW IN YOUR UTILITY BILL - Your utility bill might be changing soon—but hold those groans and grimaces 'til you hear what is going to be different. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey just announced that because of the success of the free landfill days, he wants to make everyday a free landfill day, in a sense: Audio.  Mayor Kinskey adds this is subject to City Council approval. A big reason he thinks this is a good idea: Audio. If this wins Council approval, you'll be able to use these coupons Monday through Saturday.

DAYTON TOWN COUNCIL APPROVES RESOLUTION TO APPLY FOR GRANT TO REFURBISH TONGUE RIVER HIGH SCHOOL - Dayton's Town Council met last night for their secondary monthly meeting. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: Audio.

U.S. HIGHWAY 14 OVER THE MOUNTAIN TO OPEN AT NOON - It's been a few months, but the day has finally arrived – U.S. Highway 14 over the Big Horn Mountains is opening today.  WyDOT Region 4 spokesperson, Ronda Holwell: Audio. The months of closure have brought about walls of snow: Audio.  Ronda cautions drivers: Audio.   Barring any unforeseen weather hiccups, U.S. 14 over the mountains will open today at noon.

GENERATIONS MEET AT THE SHERIDAN COUNTY MUSEUM - Culminating their multiple-part study of Sheridan County mining towns, Tongue River Elementary 3rd graders met former mining town residents at a gathering on the Sheridan County Museum's front porch Wednesday.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the story: Audio.

SHERIDAN COUNTY FULMER PUBLIC LIBRARY FRONT ENTERANCE WILL BE CLOSED TODAY - The Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library has announced that the front entrance to the library will be closed all day today. Patrons are asked to use either the Children's Library entrance or the patio entrance.

 

Wednesday, May 16, 2007

U.S. SUPREME COURT JUSTICE SCALIA VISITS THE POWDER HORN - A very prominent person was in Sheridan and gave a talk out at the Powder Horn.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the story: Audio.

IT WAS A FULL HOUSE AT THE SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING TUESDAY - It was a full house at the Sheridan County Commission meeting Tuesday morning.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love was there and has this report: Audio.  

BALANCING THE BUDGET IS LOOKING TO BE MORE DIFFICULT FOR THE CITY OF SHERIDAN THIS YEAR - It's that time of the bi-year again, where local cities and counties are crafting their budgets for the upcoming two years. The City of Sheridan began a series of work sessions Tuesday afternoon to start balancing the requests from various departments and what the City actually has to spend.  Scott Badley, the Deputy Clerk-Treasurer, comments: Audio. And Sheridan Media's Betsy Love spoke with Scott about the numbers they will be working with this year: Audio. We will bring you more details in the coming weeks, as Sheridan City Council works through the numbers.

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOCUSES ON STRATEGIC PLANNING - Sheridan Memorial Hospital held a special meeting last night that focused on strategic priorities and how they will affect the future of the hospital in Sheridan County. Hospital CEO, Mike McCafferty, says strategic planning isn't something new at Sheridan Memorial: Audio. McCafferty stated that strategic planning points out the good things that the hospital is doing, along with the not-so-good things: Audio.  One of the hospital's strategic priorities is the need to upgrade their Information Technology, or I-T system. Sheridan Memorial hired Hayes Consultants to assess their current system and develop a planning process to integrate a new I-T system at the hospital.

RANCHESTER GETS THE NOD FROM THE SLIB BOARD TO USE LEFTOVER FUNDS ON WATER LINE PROJECT - Ranchester's Town Council met last night and received an update on the status of funding for the town's ten-inch water line project. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was in attendance and has this report: Audio.   

SHERIDAN DISTRICT 1 BOARD OF TRUSTEES COVERS A LOT OF GROUND AND SAYS FAREWELL TO A TEACHER AT LAST NIGHT'S MONTHLY MEETING - At the May meeting for Sheridan County School District 1, trustees began by honoring soon-to-be-retired Big Horn High School teacher Mike Roberts, who began his work in District 1 back in 1986. After a brief reception, business resumed with a student ambassador's report from sophomore Justin Feaster.  A facility update indicated that reps from the district plan to meet with architects for a conversation about the design for Big Horn High School – they have until October 1st to submit plans – and a July meeting is planned to meet with design engineers on Tongue River High School – they're still waiting for a GeoTech report. The board approved Groathouse Construction out of Cody to serve as their Construction Manager at Risk for the upcoming facilities projects. The board approved recommendations from the Incentive Pay Committee, who, over the school year, met to determine how best to use 180-thousand dollars.  To the delight of the board, they determined they'd only need 80-thousand.  Superintendent Sue Belish explains: Audio. One agenda topic that produced a lot of discussion centered around the need for coaches: Audio. Belish says that non-teachers can be coaches, so long as they're certified. The board also approved implementing a one-year pilot program in which an activities director would be put in place at Big Horn Middle School – the position would be for after school and weekend sports, and is currently being handled by the principals.

 

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

FORMER SHERIDAN DISTRICT 2 BOARD MEMBER, DAVE DEBOLT, SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON HIS RESIGNATION FROM THE BOARD - Last week in our report from the Sheridan Rec District meeting, one of the soundbites indicated that District 2 board member, Dave Debolt, had resigned and is now working as an employee for District 2.  Dave stopped by Sheridan Media to clarify a few things: Audio. DeBolt has numerous years under his belt working in many aspects of the construction trade, and with the building boom going on in Sheridan County, he saw an opportunity: Audio.  Dave is proud of the six years he spent as a District 2 Trustee: Audio.  DeBolt leaves the board with two years remaining – if you're interested in applying for the position, the only requirement is that you live within the boundaries of School District 2, which include all of Sheridan's city limits and portions of the county.

PINNACLE GAS TRADES PUBLICLY FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS MORNING - We reported at the end of April that Sheridan-based Pinnacle Gas had been approved to be listed publicly on NASDAQ.  Today it became officially official, when trading began this morning.  Company founder Pete Schoonmaker says it was a bit of a journey getting to this landmark day: Audio. Pinnacle's 45 employees include office and field personnel, with drilling on the Cabin Creek area on the extreme eastern border of Sheridan County, as well as an active program in Montana's Big Horn County, along with drilling in the Green River Basin in Sweetwater County.  Going public, Pete says, will bring more employment opportunities to the community: Audio.  So truly, can anyone buy Pinnacle's stock? Audio. Did Pete ever imagine he'd be seeing this monumental day? Audio.  Pinnacle Gas, now a public company, trading on the NASDAQ as of opening bell this morning.

WHERE, OH, WHERE ARE ALL THE BEES? -  What is causing bee populations to collapse all over the world?  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love brings us the second of a two-part series on the vanishing bees: Audio.Video of Bees Bees

SHERIDAN PLANNING COMMISSION TALKS  NEIGHBORHOODS - One of the items at the Sheridan Planning Commission Meeting last night that was expected to be controversial ended up going through relatively smoothly.  It is a preliminary plan for a seven-lot development over by Carlin and Water Street.  Sheridan City Planner Robert Briggs: Audio. Robert also gave the Commission an update on a few of the planning recommendations from Forward Sheridan: Audio. Other business included approval of  a joint city-county subdivision by Park Street and Carrington and approving a request to create a new commercial lot by West Fifth and Mydland Road.

HERO TO HERO MAKES A STOP IN SHERIDAN, IT'S ONLY ONE IN WYOMING - On their 4th stop in a planned 55-city tour, three women with Hero to Hero swung in to visit Shift A of the Sheridan Fire Station Monday to pick up some shirts.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the story: Audio.   For more information, visit www.herotohero.us

MORE WATER MAY BE COMING TO A COUNTY NEIGHBORHOOD NEAR YOU - The Sheridan Area Water Supply Board, or SAWS, voted at their last meeting to acquire nearly 26-acre feet from Dome Reservoir.  But that isn't the end of the story; SAWS Administrator Jay Stender: Audio.  SAWS currently holds water shares in both reservoirs. The new water from Park Reservoir was purchased from Mrs. Powers, and the water from Dome was from Ken and Helen Harmon: Audio. SAWS spent 202-thousand dollars on these transactions.  And Jay adds they are currently in negotiations to purchase more water and are looking for other water sources as well. 

ANOTHER “BIG” ADDITION TO THIS YEAR'S SHERIDAN WYO RODEO HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED - The big announcements regarding this year's Sheridan Wyo Rodeo just keep coming. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details on another: Audio.

YELLOWSTONE AND GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARKS SEEK PUBLIC INPUT ON WINTER USE PLAN - Officials from both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National park have scheduled four public meetings through the end of the month in order to educate the public on a new long-term winter use plan. The Winter Use Plan Draft Environmental Impact Statement, or EIS, was released in late March for a sixty-day public review period. Yellowstone Park Spokesman, Al Nash, says that now it's time to hear what people think of the Draft EIS: Audio. The first of four meetings will take place tomorrow night in Cody from 6 to 9 pm at the Cody Auditorium. This is the only meeting set in Wyoming. Nash says not to worry if you can't make it to tomorrow night's meeting: Audio. U.S. Senators Craig Thomas and Mike Enzi, along with Representative Barbara Cubin, have already sent a letter of disapproval on the Draft EIS, stating that “the preferred alternative plan closes the East entrance of Yellowstone to motorized snowmobile and snowcoach access, and that decision is simply unacceptable to us and our constituents.”The National Park Service intends to have a final EIS plan, a Record of Decision, and a final rule guiding winter use in place before the start of the 2007-2008 winter season. The draft plan, as well as how to submit public comments, can be viewed at  http://parkplanning.nps.gov/yell

 

Monday, May 14, 2007


Dr. Kevin Drumm hands the Honorary Diploma to Charlene Bodine

Sheridan College Commencement (Click for more photos.)

SHERIDAN COLLEGE COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES HELD OUTDOORS, AND THE FIRST-EVER HONORARY SCC DEGREE WAS AWARDED - Sheridan College held their commencement ceremony over the weekend. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson was there and brings this report: Audio.    

A CLUSTER OF STORMS, HIGH TEMPS AND FLOOD WATCH ALL IN THE LAST 24 HOURS - Like someone turning on a light switch Sunday evening, high winds blew in suddenly as a cluster of thunder storms moved through southern Montana and into northeastern Wyoming.  Julie Arthur is with the National Weather Service in Billings: Audio. Julie says that today we may see an isolated shower or thunderstorm today, but meantime, there is a flood watch in effect until noon: Audio. And for today, Julie says: Audio.  Sheridan County residents should be alert for minor flooding and take necessary steps to protect livestock and property.  And if you see flooding, contact the National Weather Service or local emergency management officials –NWS in Billings:  (406) 652-1916 or Sheridan County Emergency Mgmt. - 675-2569.

POLO GEAR INC. -- ARE THEY COMING TO RANCHESTER OR NOT? - We told you in April that Polo Gear Incorporated requested that the town of Ranchester withdraw their application of a 1.2 million dollar grant through the Wyoming Business Council, that would have allowed the company to move their headquarters from Wellington, Florida to Ranchester. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the latest: Audio.

COULD CRIMES BE BE COMMITED IN YOUR NAME? -  If you are like most people today, you could be letting others commit crimes in your name.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love reports: Audio.  

SHERIDAN COLLEGE CLASS YEAR-END PROJECT COMES UP WITH IDEAS FOR A TEEN YOUTH CENTER - As part of their final project at Sheridan College, students from Dr. Lissanna Follari's Educational Psychology class spent several weeks looking at a particular need in the community.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the story: Audio.     

HERO TO HERO AT SHERIDAN FIRE STATION - The Sheridan Fire Department is hosting a unique event this morning.  Known as Hero to Hero, Fire Marshall Brian Songer explains: Audio.  Specifically, Songer tells us: Audio. You are all welcome to come by the station, he says: Audio. The three Hero to Hero representatives will be at the Sheridan Fire Station from 10 this morning until about 1 this afternoon.

BEES ARE BUZZING — AWAY, AND NOBODY KNOWS TO WHERE - Experts are bewildered by this strange occurrence. It is happening worldwide, including Northeast Wyoming.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the story: Audio.

OUR WEEKLY POLL QUESTION ADDRESSES OPINIONS ON RECYCLING - As you know, the City of Sheridan has begun placing “green bins” around town for yard waste, and recycling non-biodegradable materials is imminent.  Our next two poll questions will address the issue of recycling, beginning this week with:  should materials be recycled, if it's less expensive to bury them in a landfill: Audio. Let us know what you think – log on to Sheridan Media dot com and answer the question, and be sure to leave comments, too.  You can now click on the “Forum” link to learn what others' comments are, and then be sure to tune in Friday mornings during the Jackson Electric Open Line on Newstalk 930 KROE to hear the results.

NEW VISITING HOURS START TOMORROW AT THE SHERIDAN COUNTY DETENTION CENTER - Starting tomorrow, visitation days are changing at the Sheridan County Detention Center. Lieutenant Darlene Johnson gives us a rundown of when visitation will now take place: Audio. Visiting days prior to tomorrow were Wednesdays and Saturdays.  Johnson points out why the change: Audio. FYI -- money will not be accepted during visiting hours; however money may be brought into the Sheriff's Office between 8 am and 5 pm Monday through Friday.

 

Sunday, May 13, 2007

ANOTHER TREES FOR TRASH PROJECT DEEMED A SUCCESS - The morning fog lifted Saturday in time for the cars, trucks and flatbeds to begin streaming in to the City Landfill and through McDonalds' parking lot for the annual Trees for Trash, sponsored by Sheridan Media, ERA Carroll Realty, Landon's Greenhouse and McDonalds. I stopped by the Landfill site for a few minutes, just in time to see ERA's Doris Edwards handing over a tree sapling to Sheridan County resident, Bruce Tomsovic: Audio. Trees for Trash is part of the “Clean Up and Green Up” campaign held each May.

U-W BOTONISTS CONTRIBUTE TO MONUMENTAL PLANT DOCUMENTAION PROJECT - Botanists at the University of Wyoming are making significant contributions to the production of a 30-volume documentation of the native and naturalized plants of North America. Botany Professor at U-W, and Director of the Rocky Mountain Herbarium, Ron Hartman, says the University has done some major things throughout the years: Audio. Hartman said that the “Flora of North America” project began in 1984, and that it is about half-way finished, with a total of 30 volumes to be published by 2011.

Saturday, May 12, 2007

ANOTHER TREES FOR TRASH PROJECT DEEMED A SUCCESS - The morning fog lifted Saturday in time for the cars, trucks and flatbeds to begin streaming in to the City Landfill and through McDonalds' parking lot for the annual Trees for Trash, sponsored by Sheridan Media, ERA Carroll Realty, Landon's Greenhouse and McDonalds. I stopped by the Landfill site for a few minutes, just in time to see ERA's Doris Edwards handing over a tree sapling to Sheridan County resident, Bruce Tomsovic:Audio. Trees for Trash is part of the “Clean Up and Green Up” campaign held each May.

YOU MAY HAVE NOTICED THINGS ARE A LITTLE QUIETER THIS SPRING - You may have noticed things are a little quieter this spring — and if things don't change, they could get much, much, quieter — and less colorful, as well. Audio. That was Alan Ridley, who is a local beekeeper and owns Buffalo's Powder River Apiaries, along with his wife.  You've probably heard about bees mysteriously disappearing all over.  Well, huge amounts of local bees are vanishing, as well.  And, Alan tells us, if this trend continues, there will be some not-so-good consequences: Audio. Starting tomorrow, Sheridan Media's Betsy Love will have a two-part series about the great bee disappearance.  Both Alan, as well as another local beekeeper who has raised bees for over 30 years, will talk about their experience losing bees, and what they think might be causing these losses.

FORTIFICATION FOR WYOMING'S FORTIFICATION CREEK - Wyoming's Fortification Creek needs some fortification, according to some ranching, hunting and conservation groups.  They are asking the Bureau of Land Management to reconsider their approval of 100 new coalbed methane wells in the area.  This area is also home to a herd of rare prairie elk.  And studies show these prairie elk steer clear of the development that's encircled their year-round range, says Mark Winland with the Wyoming Wildlife Federation: Audio. Liz Howell, with the Wyoming Wilderness Association, says the B-L-M is supposed to do environmental reviews on the impacts of development on wildlife, but they didn't for this project:Audio . The B-L-M contends this is a small drilling plan that is not expected to harm the elk.

HEALTH CARE FOR MOTHER'S DAY? - Some are saying we should give all mother's a gift for “Mother's Day.”  The “All Healthy Children Act” which is going through Congress, would help not only mothers to get health care, but their children, as well.  Nayyera Haq with the Children's Defense Fund: Audio. Haq says for many mothers, the choice for health care is not really a choice: Audio. In Wyoming, at least 15-thousand kids do not have health insurance, and roughly one in five women do not have health coverage. 

U-W BOTONISTS CONTRIBUTE TO MONUMENTAL PLANT DOCUMENTAION PROJECT - Botanists at the University of Wyoming are making significant contributions to the production of a 30-volume documentation of the native and naturalized plants of North America. Botany Professor at U-W, and Director of the Rocky Mountain Herbarium, Ron Hartman, says the University has done some major things throughout the years:Audio . Hartman said that the “Flora of North America” project began in 1984, and that it is about half-way finished, with a total of 30 volumes to be published by 2011.

 

Saturday, May 12, 2007

THE ANNUAL “TREES FOR TRASH” DAY HAS ARRIVED! - There is no shortage of things going on in and around Sheridan this weekend as another annual event is today. It's Trees for Trash in Sheridan and residents of the city as well as the county can take part. Trees for Trash Coordinator Jim Schellinger explains how it works: Audio . There are two locations you can take your trash to, either the city landfill or McDonanld's on North Main: Audio. Schellinger stated that they will not be accepting oil or batteries and that only four car size tires off of the rim can be brought in. Trees for Trash runs from 9am this morning till 2 this afternoon.

REMEMBER TO PUT YOUR CORN, SOUP, BEANS AND OTHER FOODS BY YOUR MAILBOX TODAY - Remember to put your canned goods out by your mailbox today.  Gary Harlow with the Sheridan Post Office explains: Audio. Gary adds that last year he says nationally they collected about 70 million pounds last year, and collected about 6-thousand pounds locally.  Audio. But the most important part, Gary says: Audio. Gary says they chose this time of year for the food-drive because it is usually when food banks are running low. It is best to put out your canned goods in the morning or before your mail-carrier usually brings the mail by. 

THE VERDICT IS IN FOR THE WYOMING LOG HOMES VS. WHISENHUNT CIVIL TRIAL IN DISTRICT COURT - The verdict is in on the Wyoming Log Homes VS. Whisenhunt trial. While several people on Wyoming Log Home's side, including Bob Szewc were at the verdict announcement, Joe Whisenhunt, was absent from the courtroom. The six jurors deliberated for over two hours over three questions: was there a contract between the two parties; did the defendant breach the contract; and were the defendants, in this case the Whisenhunts, unjustly enriched?  The procedure required that the  jurors' decision was unanimous. On the first count, “was there a contract between the parties,” the jurors determined that yes, there was a contract.  On the second, they determined the contract was not breached.  And third, the six jurors decided that the Whisenhunts were unjustly enriched -- of the nearly 220-thousand dollars for which Wyoming Log Home Manufacturing was suing, the jury awarded the plaintiffs 52-thousand dollars. 

MONEY MAY NOT GROW ON TREES — BUT IT DOES SEEP FROM THE GROUND IN WYOMING - While money may not grow on trees, it is seeping from the ground in Wyoming.  Specifically, the gas is seeping from the ground in Wyoming's Red Desert — big time.  Walt Merschat, , who is a Geochemist who consults the petroleum industry, says this colorless, odorless gas may be costing the state thousands of dollars a day — but this isn't only a money issue, it is a safety issue, as well: Audio. Merschat says methane is also a global warming gas which should be controlled, if possible.  And because methane seeps are in a lot of popular hunting and camping grounds, there should be more testing to locate seeps and post warning signs: Audio. While methane can leak from the ground naturally, he adds, there is plenty of evidence that much of the methane leakage is a result of nearby exploratory drilling.  Slowing down the rate of development, as well as putting waste water from drilling back in the ground, would both help keep methane from leaking.

SHERIDAN COUNTY MUSEUM GETS A COUPLE OF GRANTS - The Sheridan County Museum has received two grants, with the first being from the Colorado-Wyoming Association of Museums. Museum Curator and Director of Children's Programming, Nathan Doerr, explains the program what grant will enable: Audio. Doerr tells us about another grant the museum has recently been awarded:Audio . Nathan said that receiving these grants has helped immensely in expanding children's activities at the museum.

13 POUNDS OF ECSTASY TABLETS SEIZED EARLIER THIS WEEK - Wyoming Highway Patrol has issued a statement about a huge drug seizure Tuesday morning.  Approximately 13 pounds of ecstasy tablets were confiscated, and two individuals were arrested during a traffic stop on I-80, sixteen miles west of Cheyenne. 26-year-old Phu T. Nguyen (wen) was stopped after a trooper clocked him going 80 in a 75 zone.  During the traffic stop, the trooper noticed that the vehicle was a rental vehicle rented in California, and had only been rented for one day. The statement says Nguyen and his passenger, 24-year-old Pham M. Thang, had conflicting stories as to why they were taking a trip from their hometown of Elk Grove, California, and were in Wyoming, with their destination somewhere in Kansas or Colorado.  A search of the vehicle produced 3 duffle bags in the trunk of the car, inside which were the ecstasy pills. The pills are a hot commodity in the drug trafficking business – people us the pill during all night dances called raves, with each pill, which are about the size of a children's aspirin, selling for as highas 50 bucks on the illegal market.  The drug has been known to cause short term physical effects, psychological effect and even death. Both Nguyen and Thang are currently incarcerated at the Laramie County Detention Center in Cheyenne, and have been charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver. Troopers, along with special agents from the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and Federal agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration continue to investigate the case.

 

Friday, May 11, 2007

TRIAL RESULTTHE VERDICT IS OUT IN THE WYOMING LOG HOMES VS WHISENHUNT TRIAL - The verdict is out in the Wyoming Log Homes VS. Whisenhunt trial. While several people on Wyoming Log Home's side, including Bob Szewc (Chefs) were at the verdict announcement, Joe Whisenhunt, was absent from the courtroom.  The six jurors deliberated for over two hours over three questions: Was there a contract between the two parties; did the defendant breach the contract, and was the defendant, in this case the Whisenhunts, unjustly enriched?  The procedure required that the  juror's decision was unanimous.   On the first account, was there a contract between the parties, the jurors determined that yes, there was a contract.  They however, determined the contract was not breached.  But, the six jurors still decided that the Whisenhunt's were unjustly enriched and of the nearly 220-thousand dollars WLH was suing for, they awarded the plaintiff's 52-thousand dollars. 

RANCHESTER TO HOST A MEMORIAL MUD BOG COMPETITION FOR SOLDIER KILLED IN ACCIDENT - It's the ultimate irony – a Wyoming soldier from Gillette was getting ready to ship out for duty in Iraq, but was killed in an accident stateside.  Friend of the family, Ranchester resident Tom Soltis, tells us: Audio. Soltis is among a group of outdoor recreationist who enjoy mud-bogging, and they plan scheduled bog competitions annually.  They were planning one for tomorrow anyway, and so to help the family of this Airman, Soltis says they're making it a memorial fund-raising event: Audio. Tom says the mud-bogging competition is for 4-wheel-drive trucks, and participants should be at the track by 9 to register, with the first round set to begin at 10.

LEADERSHIP SHERIDAN COUNTY MAY MODULE – WE ALL GOT A DOSE OF THE CULTURAL OFFERINGS IN TOWN - The 2007 Leadership Sheridan County class spent their May module Thursday learning about the cultural aspect of the community.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson, who is also a participant, reports: Audio.

ICE CREAM STAND IN KENDRICK PARK OPENS TOMORROW - Its a sure sign that summer is just about here; were  talking about a particular ice cream stand opening for the season. Business Manager from the Sheridan Recreation District Rich Bridger with the good word: 05-11-30. Rich points out that for now it'll be open on somewhat of a part time basis: Audio. Bridger says that the Kendrick Park ice cream stand will be open full time starting on the last day of school which is June 5th, where their hours will be 10am to 9pm seven days a week.

MISSING BOY IS FOUND SAFE, PLAYING IN A PARK - A late afternoon alert Thursday gave the community an awareness that another child in less than a week had gone missing.  Good news – 10-year-old Cameron Blakeman was found. According to Sheridan police Lieutenant Chris Dahmke, a call came in at the end of business last evening that someone had spotted the boy playing in Kendrick Park.  Police were called and returned him to his parents.

CLOSING ARGUMENTS IN THE WYOMING LOG HOMES VS WHISNHUNT WERE HEARD - The Jury in the Wyoming Log Homes vs. Whisenhunt civil case in Sheridan's District Court began deliberations this morning. During closing arguments yesterday afternoon, WLH's Attorney emphasized Whisenhunt's extensive business experience and inconsistent behavior.  Because Whisenhunt currently has multiple multi-million dollar business projects he had the experience and business-savvy to manipulate the situation to his favor—for instance, not signing a written contract, but instead having an oral contract, which is still legally binding but more difficult to trace in court. They emphasized Whisenhunt's apparently cunning behavior, arguing he planned on not paying the full amount from the start.  The closing argument's Whisenhunt's attorney used focused on going through invoices, bill and other documents, saying the billed time and actual time WLH spent on the Whisenhunt house did not match up.  He argued that it was not the initial part of the project they questioned, which was a bid-plus contract.  But because the Whisenhunt project expanded per Joe Whisenhunt's request in the middle, they had to shift to a cost-plus, which, he argues, necessitates accurate bookkeeping for billing.  That, Whisenhunt's Attorney argued, did not happen and there is evidence his client was over-billed.  By his calculations, Whisenhunt could only owe between 7-thousand and 45-thousand dollars, not the over 200-thousand dollars WLH contends he owes. The six-person jury begins deliberations at 9 this morning.

PUT YOUR SOUP AND OTHER CANNED-GOODS OUTSIDE TOMORROW - Tomorrow is the day—the day to gather up all your canned goods and put them out by your mailbox.  Gary Harlow with the Sheridan Post Office explains: Audio. So before your mail comes tomorrow, Gary says: Audio. Gary says the Sheridan Post Office collected about 6-thousand pounds of food for our local shelters last year.


Ashton Legerski with the newly-named
museum mouse, "Tidbit".

SHERIDAN COUNTY MUSEUM OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCES MASCOT'S NEW NAME; RECEIVES THREE GRANTS - It's official – the Sheridan County Museum mouse mascot has a new name.  After narrowing down from 245 entries from the county's pre-K through 8th grade children, a panel of judges met three weeks ago to choose the top name from the three age categories.  From those three, two finalists and a winner were selected. At a reception at the Sheridan County Museum Thursday evening, the winners were announced.  4-year-old Connor Isakson was the third runner up with his name “Trolley the Mouse”; second place went to Delaney Crossan, who named the mouse “Alger” after one of our famous streets.  Connor and Delaney received a certificate and 20 dollars in Chamber Bucks. The winning Mascot Name?  “Tidbit,” submitted by 3rd grader Ashton Legerski, who talks here with Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson: Audio. Ashton Legerski also received 20 dollars in Chamber Bucks, a 50 dollar savings bond from Sheridan State Bank, and a trophy with both his name and his winning entry of “Tidbit” engraved on it. You can come up to learn Tidbit's information at the Sheridan County Museum, now open for the season afternoons from 1 to 5.

SHERIDAN WYO RODEO HAS TWO SIGNIFICANT ANNOUNCEMENTS - Great news keeps coming from the Sheridan WYO Rodeo board, this time from board Vice President, Zane Garstad: Audio. You heard him correctly – the Outdoor Life Network chose the Sheridan WYO Rodeo, along with seven other rodeos around the country, to tape for broadcast in late July.  How did it all come about? Audio. Crews from OLN will tape the Friday and Saturday night performances.The big announcements don't stop there, though: Audio. The Lonestar concert is sponsored by the Gold Buckle Club and M&M/Mars – again the date is Saturday, July 7th.The Outdoor Life Network will air the Sheridan WYO Rodeo on July 25th and July 28th, with an anticipated exposure to 30 million households.  Along with Sheridan, OLN selected Tour Rodeo in Houston, Texas; National Circuit Finals in Pocatello, Idaho; and Cheyenne Frontier Days, among others.

Sheridan Community Snapshot


V.A. Nurses given Secretary'si Award for Nursing Excellence
From Left to Right: Jean Holwell,
Lynne Newcomer, Jessi Selig, Carlene Coffin.
May 09, 2007

SHERIDAN INN HAS UPDATE ON RESTORATION PROJECT - Work continues on the Historic Sheridan Inn, and Heritage Center director, Edre Maier, gives us an update: Audio. Where do they go from here? 05-11-06.  Also, crews are working diligently on the second and third floors to frame up the outline of the new guest rooms, and doing intricate work on the windows and window frames.

WYOMING HONOR FARM TO HOST WILD HORSE ADOPTION TOMORROW - The Wyoming Bureau of Land Management and the Wyoming Honor Farm will be hosting a wild horse adoption tomorrow at 10 am at the Honor Farm located one mile north or Riverton. Farm Manager for the Wyoming Department of Corrections, Joe Croft, points out that the horse adoption may be tomorrow, but they've got things planned throughout today as well: Audio.  And speaking of the horse adoption, Joe fills us in on the details: Audio. Once again, the horse clinic will be this afternoon at 1pm with a preview of the horses at four, then the wild horse adoption will take place Saturday morning at 10. Crofts says since the Wyoming Honor Farm is a minimum security facility, no firearms, alcohol, drugs or dogs are allowed and that any cell phones, cameras,video equipment and tobacco products must remain in one's vehicle.

SHERIDAN COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES GETS UPDATE ON STATUS OF FAIRGROUNDS SURVEY AND PONDERS HAVING A PUBLIC NIGHT DURING THE WEEK - The Sheridan County Fair Association Board of Trustees met for their regularly scheduled monthly meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has this report: Audio.    

 

 

Thursday, May 10, 2007

DAYTON COUNCIL WILL TAKE OWNERSHIP OF TONGUE RIVER HIGH SCHOOL ONCE NEW SCHOOL IS BUILT - Dayton's Town Council agreed Wednesday night to take ownership of Tongue River High School once the new high school is built. The move will allow the town to apply for a state grant that would be used to renovate the school into a community center. However, Dayton would not be responsible financially for the renovation as that would fall into the hands of the Tongue River Community Center.  Dayton Mayor Bob Wood explains the logic behind the town taking ownership of the building: Audio. Wood points out that the 1.5 million dollar grant is just to renovate a portion of the building: Audio. Wood said that a joint powers board would be formed to take over the community center. Wood states that there's still a lot of work to be done to make things work: Audio. There will be a public meeting to discuss the community center Thursday May 17th at  7:30pm at Dayton's Town Hall.

THE SAWS BOARD DISCUSSED FINANCES AND FIRES AT LAST NIGHT'S MEETING - SAWS had a number of important issues on the table last night.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has this report:05-10-51.     

CHILDCARE PROVIDER RECOGNITION DAY TO BE HELD TOMORROW - Childcare has been in the news a lot, lately, what with plans in the works to bring a Childcare Center to Sheridan.  But the center would be an addition to the already numerous centers around the county, and tomorrow the childcare providers are going to be honored.Audio. That's Dr. Lissanna Follari, the head of the Early Childhood Education Department at Sheridan College, who tells us the event is co-sponsored by Normative Services and the Wyoming Children's Action Alliance: Audio. Dr. Follari says there will be food and music to celebrate the childcare providers, and the public is welcome to attend.  The reception is tomorrow afternoon from 4 to 6 in the Whitney Building at Sheridan College.


Nathan Doerr - Book Signing at Sheridan County Museaum on May 12.

COMMUNITY DEMAND BRINGS ABOUT BERNARD THOMAS BIOGRAPHY AT SHERIDAN COUNTY MUSEUM  - The Sheridan County Museum is open for the season, and visitors will find something new gracing the shelves of the gift shop.  Knowing intimately all the details is Nathan Doerr, the museum's Curator and Children's Educational Program Director: Audio. Judy Musgrave is the daughter-in-law of Bernard Thomas' sister, Berniece Musgrave, and a member of the Historical Society board.  Nathan also says that they had thought about an initial printing of a few hundred, but because of the demand, they had 15-hundred printed up instead. It truly became a community effort, he indicates, saying they were very fortunate to have had some donors help fund the project, which allowed them to concentrate on making it a biography of the Sheridan native. To best break apart the story of his life and present his artwork, they developed the Bernard Thomas book into three sections: his early years; the war years; and his career years.  And because there are more stories and images of his artwork to share, Nathan says they've developed a website, http://www.bernardpthomas.com/   And a final note – neither Doerr nor Musgrave have taken any royalties on this first printing – all initial proceeds from the sale of the book go directly to the Sheridan County Museum.

THE WAIT IS OVER – THE SHERIDAN COUNTY MUSEUM MASCOT WILL RECEIVE IT'S NAME AT A RECEPTION THIS EVENING - Earlier this year, the Sheridan County Museum announced they were creating a mascot to be used in conjunction with the Children's Educational programs and exhibits.  A call was put out to Sheridan County youth to give the mascot a name, and Curator and Children's Program Director, Nathan Doerr, tells us the wait is just about over: Audio. And even though all three can't be the winner, they still all come away with something, Nathan says: Audio. The public is welcome to attend the reception, which will be held out on the big airy porch of the Sheridan County Museum, again that time is at 5:15 this evening.

QUESTIONS ABOUT BOOKKEEPING TAKE UP THE LION'S SHARE OF DAY 3 IN THE WYOMING LOG HOME VS. JOE WHISENHUNT CIVIL CASE IN SHERIDAN'S DISTRICT COURT - Day three of Wyoming Log Home Manufacturing's civil case against part-time Story residents, Joe and Margaret Whisenhunt began with plaintiff's attorney, Harlan Rasmussen, continuing his questioning of Joe. Whisenhunt had asked for a compilation of all documentation of the project up to April 3, 2005, several months after it had begun, and at the point when Joe felt he was being overcharged.  Rasmussen maintained that Whisenhunt had been issued a more detailed invoice of the charges incurred on the project long before April 3rd, and he hadn't complained.  When Joe's attorney, Tom Klepperich, gave his cross, he asked Joe if, in all the invoices he'd received, if those papers, like those in the compilation book, had four columns breaking down how the total had been determined.  Whisenhunt said that no, his invoices were only ever one column.  He added that the four-column breakdown invoices started arriving after Wyoming Log Home began litigation. After he left the stand, WLH bookkeeper, Gay Hale, took the stand, and spent most of her testimony explaining how the books and invoices were done.  She'd been trained by former bookkeeper, Tim Shipman.  She testified that Joe had never once contacted her personally about any complaints or issues with his invoices, and that even after that April 3rd date, the invoices she sent to him were the one-column with totals.  She said she didn't know how those totals were determined, but did understand the Cost Plus agreement. She said that Joe's last payment included enough to cover vendor costs only, and that of the over 800-thousand dollars owed, Joe has paid roughly 2/3rds. In the afternoon, because Tim Shipman was unavailable to testify, Gay read his account of his time interacting with the Whisenhunts.  It was determined that the trial was proceeding ahead of schedule, and the jury may go into deliberation sometime today.

OLDER FOLKS ARE CELEBRATIN' HAWAIAN-STYLE — AND WILL BE PUTTIN' ON THEIR COWBOY BOOTS AND HATS NEXT WEEK - Local older folks are celebrating like ... well, this week, like they are in Hawaii.  It is part of “Older Americans Month” and the Sheridan Senior Center is doing it up big this year.  Last week was “Mexican Week” and getting to jam to a Mariachi Band and having an enchilada lunch, was just part of the celebrating. Nora, who along with her husband was fully-clad in all their luau gear, tells us what they've been up to so far for “Hawaiian Week”: Audio.  So who proved to be the tackier tourist—Carmen or Bill? Audio.  Jane Perkins, who is the Activities Director at the Sheridan Senior Center, tells us a bit about why all this celebrating is going on: Audio. And, she adds, “younger Americans” are just as welcome to participate: Audio. Like we mentioned, next week is “Cowboy Week,” the following is “50's Theme Week” and May will wrap-up with “Patriotic Week.” Also, stay tuned, because Senior Health and Fitness Week is coming up in June ... and there will be plenty of activities for folks 50 and up.

SHERIDAN RECREATION DISTRICT BOARD FILLED ONE VACANCY ON THEIR BOARD LAST NIGHT - The Sheridan Recreation District board held their monthly meeting last night.  Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was in attendance and has this report: Audio.     

SHERIDAN WYO RODEO ANNOUNCES THE NEWEST “OFFICIAL SPONSOR” OF THIS YEAR'S EVENT - In exactly two months from today, Sheridan WYO Rodeo week commences with the annual boot kick-off in Kendrick Park. Sheridan WYO Rodeo Board member, Doug Meier, gives us this special announcement about this year's event: Audio. Doug says that there are a lot of people that take part in making the rodeo a success year after year: Audio. Meier said that they have been planning this year's rodeo since early October, which will once again take place at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds July 12th through the 14th.

 

Wednesday, May 09, 2007

FORMER SHERIDAN FIREFIGHTER MARC HARTMAN HAD HIS SECOND COURT APPEARANCE - Former Sheridan firefighter Marc Hartman appeared in Sheridan Circuit Court yesterday afternoon for his preliminary hearing.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the story: Audio.

DAY TWO IN THE DISTRICT COURT CIVIL CASE OF WYOMING LOG HOME MANUFACTURING VS. JOE AND MARGARET WHISENHUNT - Facts, figures, invoices and payments were the focus during the second day of testimony in the Sheridan District Court civil case of Wyoming Log Home Manufacturing, or WLH, vs. Joe and Margaret Whisenhunt, an Arkansas couple who live part-time in Sheridan County. Joe Whisenhunt had hired WLH to do extensive work on a main house and several other buildings on some property he'd purchased in Story, and, according to the company's owner, Bob Szewc, Whisenhunt still owes WLH nearly 221-thousand dollars. Sheridan Media's coverage began just before the lunch break Tuesday, when Whisenhunt's attorney, Tom Klepperich was questioning Szewc.  Apparently, no formal contract had been established between the two parties; rather, Szewc gave Whisenhunt an estimate, and the job was done on a Cost-Plus arrangement, with 15 % overhead, 10% profit and $25.oo/hour in labor as the agreement.  According to the company president, and Szewc' daughter, Michelle Nielsen, the company and Whisenhunt did not agree on the definition of “overhead.”  In afternoon testimony,  Whisenhunt told lead attorney for the plaintiff, Harlan Rasmussen, that he'd explained to Szewc that the job would be “evolving”.  WLH maintains that it did evolve into a project of high-end materials and challenging surroundings – a cabin on a cliff, for example – with extra time involved.While WLH acknowledges that Whisenhunt initially paid his invoices promptly and in full for several months, Whisenhunt claims that costs began to escalate, in his opinion, and that the job had been mismanaged and taken too long.  He stopped paying on the invoices about six months into the project.The six-person jury is comprised of three men and three women.  They'll begin day number three listening to attorneys for the plaintiff continue their questioning of Joe Whisenhunt.  The trial is expected to go through the end of the week.

THE LONG-AWAITED LINDEN-AREA PROJECT IS NOW UNDERWAY - The Linden-area reconstruction project is now officially underway.  It takes water from Cemetery Draw along Linden Avenue, down to Big Goose Creek.   The project's main goal is to enlarge the storm-sewer system, but along the way they'll be fixing up the streets and sidewalks as well.    Dave Engles with EnTech Engineering updates us on the first phase of the project: Audio. And how long will this take? Audio. Once the project is completed, all of the trees will be replaced by new ones selected by property owners—just as long as they are sidewalk-friendly and the roots do not heave them.   The total cost of the project is 3.5 million dollars and should be completed by this fall.

WYOMING JOINS 31 STATES TO ADDRESS GLOBAL WARMING - The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality plans to track emissions that cause global warming. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: Audio

SENATOR ENZI CALLS FOR CONGRESS TO STRENGTHEN THE NATION'S SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND MENTAL HEALTH CARE SYSTEM - U.S. Senator Mike Enzi of Wyoming is a ranking member of the Senate, Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and Tuesday he and Rodger McDaniel, Deputy Director of the Wyoming Department of Health, testified before the committee on changes that need to be made in Congress. McDaniel, in addressing the committee, said that he's seen every angle of substance abuse: Audio. One thing that McDaniel addressed at the hearing was the fact that there needs to be more community involvement in fighting the problem: Audio. During the hearing, Senator Enzi said that Congress needs to take a bigger role in addressing the growing epidemic of methamphetamine:Audio. The Senator pointed out that Wyoming has taken steps to reduce and hopefully eliminate the problem, as meth use in high schools, he stated, has decreased twenty-seven percent between 2003 and 2005.  The hearing marked the beginning of the legislative process to reauthorize the Substance Abuse and Mental Services Administration.

CIVIC THEATRE GUILD CLOSES IT'S 51ST SEASON WITH FOUR ONE-ACTS SET IN DOCTORS' OFFICES -  “The Doctor Will See You Now”, the final play in the 2006-2007 Civic Theatre Guild season, opens tomorrow night at the Carriage House Theatre on the grounds of the Trail End Historic Site.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has more: Audio.     Video of "The Doctor Will See You Now" Civic Guild Theater

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A FASCIST AND  A COMMUNIST ARE CROSSED BY LOVE — IN SHERIDAN COUNTY DURING WWII? - It is a hate story and love story bound in one tale.  Set in Sheridan County, author V.O Blum gives the background for “Split Creek”: Audio. So what happens between the star-crossed Communist and Fascist lovers in Clearmont during WWII?  Well, you will just have to read the book Split Creek to find out, but in the meantime, you can stop by a book reading to learn more.  It is at 5:30 tomorrow evening at Sheridan Stationery. The Sheridan County Historical Society is sponsoring the event, and there will be complimentary wine and juice.

STATE ELKS CONVENTION TO TAKE PLACE IN SHERIDAN NEXT WEEK - A week from Thursday, Elks members from all over the Cowboy State will converge on Sheridan for four days as the State Elks Convention gets underway. Public Relations Chairman for the convention, Bob Gould, gives us a sneak peek at what they've got planned: Audio. Gould says that the Elks members will have plenty to do, and that includes their wives: Audio. The annual four-day State Elks Convention in Sheridan gets underway next Thursday the 17th.

 

Tuesday, May 08, 2007

FREE ONLINE BONE MARROW DONOR REGISTRATION NOW THROUGH MAY 21ST - A few months ago, Story resident and Ft. MacKenzie High School teacher, Angela Romanjenko was diagnosed with a form of bone cancer, with a race against the clock to find a donor.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson reports: AudioBone Marrow Website

SHERIDAN CITY AND COUNTY OFFICIALS MEET TO DISCUSS FLOOD PREPAREDNESS - In a meeting of the minds yesterday, Sheridan City and County officials met to hash out their flood preparedness plan. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: Audio.   

FINAL SNOWPACK REPORT FOR SHERIDAN COUNTY RELEASED - The final Sheridan County snow pack report for 2006-2007 has just been released, and Soil Conservationist, Brad Holliday, with the Natural Resources Conservation Service gives us the totals for the Tongue River drainage: Audio. There were a couple of sites that were a bit low, but Holliday states that it's still a lot better than previous numbers: Audio. The numbers for the Clear Creek drainage were good as well, as it is seventy-eight percent of normal and over seventy percent ahead of last year. The east slope of the Bighorns had the best snow pack in the state this year, with the Belle Fourche basin the lowest at just three percent.

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL “TALKS TRASH” - Sheridan City Council talked trash, among other things, at last night's meeting.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love was in attendance and has this report: Audio.      

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL VOTED ON SWEETENED DEAL - After the regular Sheridan City Council meeting, Council had an executive session to discuss a sweetened deal for the firefighters' contract.  After reconvening in open session, they voted on the new deal proposal.  Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey fills us in: Audio. Council did approve Councilman Scott Severs to replace Duane Farley, who is no longer serving on Council, to negotiate with the Fire Union along with Mayor Kinskey.

WYOMING LOG HOMES VS. WHISENHUNT CONTINUES TODAY - The civil trial in Sheridan's District Court of Wyoming Log Home Manufacturing's suit against Joe and Margaret Whisenhunt continues today.  A six-person jury was selected Monday morning, and after opening statements, Bob Szewc, owner of Wyoming Log Homes, took the stand.  According to Bob's testimony yesterday, he is not up against a “regular Joe.”  Szewc said that former President Bill Clinton is among names Joe Whisenhunt dropped, saying Clinton would call him regularly. And five-thousand dollar garage doors, copper gutters and roof tiles, which are three times more expensive than anything available locally, are among the specialty items Whisenhunt wanted Bob to include in the construction project at his house in Story.  Bob also testified that Whisenhunt told him repeatedly that everything must be perfect and “this is the most important job he would ever do.”  And those statements coming from a guy who is apparently buddies with Bill Clinton put a lot of pressure on him to do everything “perfect.” Bob Szewc said that when the original bid came in at over three-hundred thousand dollars, Whisenhunt became enraged and stormed from Bob's office, even forgetting his coat in his anger.  He had imagined the project closer to one-hundred and sixty thousand dollars.  However, Bob, who has been in construction about 35 years, said taking into account the specialty items Whisenhunt requested, the difficult location for construction, and that log homes are much more expensive than other types of construction, that price would have put him at a huge loss.  According to testimony, Bob indicated that Whisenhunt had seemed to agree, and returned to Bob's office the next day to apologize, writing a 25-thousand dollar deposit check to begin work immediately.   The work has been completed for some time now; however, Szewc alleges that Whisenhunt still owes over two-hundred thousand dollars on the balance of the bill. Day number two begins today, with the trial expected to last all week.

SHERIDAN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR - Janelle Martinsen officially donned the Director's hat at the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce, as she began her first day on the job yesterday morning.    She moved here from California back in December, but she is no stranger to Sheridan: Audio. The remainder of her high school years were spent in California, and then she went on to college, and entered the world of real estate.  And it's all in the family, it would seem; Janelle's parents decided to retire here, but Janelle's family sold their home first, with her parents following in March. What plans does Janelle have lined up for the Chamber? Audio. Dixie See is the president of the Chamber Board, and she talks about the qualities that the board saw that helped them determine Janelle was the right person for the job: Audio. With the coming weeks bringing Celebrate the Arts, The Hoop Jam, The WYO Rodeo, Buffalo Bill Days, Crazy Daze and the like, Janelle Martinsen will have no shortage of opportunities to meet people all over the county, and from the sounds of it, she's up to the challenge. 

 

Monday, May 07, 2007

ANOTHER TRIAL BEGINS TODAY - Jury selection will be underway this morning at Sheridan District Court for a five-day civil trial.  The plaintiff in this case is Wyoming Log Home Manufacturing who is suing Joe and Margaret Whisenhunt for “unjust enrichment.”   Wyoming Log Home did extensive construction and remodeling work at the Whisenhunt's house in Story.  They say the Whisenhunt's still owe them over two-hundred thousand dollars for that work.  The Whisenhunt's contend the project was unreasonably delayed and they were over-billed for labor and other expenses.   This will be a six-person trial, and if the selection process goes smoothly, opening arguments should begin this afternoon.

THERE WILL BE SOME CHANGES AT THE SHERIDAN POLICE DEPARTMENT - Last Friday on Public Pulse open line, we heard about some changes at the Sheridan Police Department. Audio. Well, after checking with the Police Chief, Mike Card, we learned that was in fact, not true. Audio. So some of the changes are shifting from 8-hour work days: Audio. The new schedule means 4-day weeks and 10 hour days, plus an extra vacation day on rotating Wednesdays.  And these four-day shifts mean everyone — except those on vacation, holiday or out on sick leave — will be there Wednesdays, allowing for extensive training: Audio. Though, not everyone in the department is completely sold on the idea; but that is not what is most important, Card says: Audio. The new schedule at the Sheridan Police Department is effective starting today.

THERE ARE A FEW ITEMS YOU MIGHT WANT TO BRING TO SHERIDAN CITY HALL - Sheridan Media's Betsy Love spoke with Mayor Kinskey about tonight's City Council meeting: Audio.    Sheridan City Council meets tonight at 7 on the third floor of City Hall.  You can also listen to the broadcast live on AM 1410 KWYO.

IN THIS WEEK'S POLL QUESTION, WE ASK ABOUT THE COUNTY HEADING FIRE / AMBULANCE SERVICES - After negotiations failed last month between the Sheridan City Council and the County Fire District Board in determining each agency's share of the cost to provide fire and ambulance service in the County, the County decided to end the consolidation agreement that was established in the late 90's.   As a new plan gets, well, planned, it prompted us to ask this question as a possible solution:  Would you support the County taking over responsibility for both City and County fire and ambulance service? Audio. Let us know what you think by logging on to Sheridan Media dot com, answering the weekly poll question, and be sure to leave comments and check out the link to the public forum to read what others think.  Then tune in to the Friday morning Open Line at 9 for the results on Newstalk 930 KROE

ROAD CLOSURES FROM THE RAIN AND OTHER CAUSES - The spring rains brought about some flooding over the weekend, and Sheridan County Engineer Bruce Yates called in a report to say that 8 miles north of Leiter on the Passaic Road, a large culvert washed out.  The road is currently closed.Also south of Arvada on the Powder River Road, a large bridge washed out, necessitating road closure as well.  This road follows the river south into Johnson County. And a listener called in to report that a crash involving two semi trucks has closed U.S. Highway 14, 10 miles west of Bear Mountain Lodge heading to Greybull. We will keep you posted as we hear when these roads will be re-opened.

RETURNING VETERANS – A DIFFERENT KIND OF VET FROM A DIFFERENT KIND OF WAR - As Congress continues to wrangle over the funding and return date of U.S. troops in Iraq, V.A. hospitals around the country continue to update and modify their care.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson talks to the Sheridan V.A. Medical Center in this report: Audio.  For more information, visit www.myhealthyvet.com; or call the local V.A. - Jackie Van Mark at 672-3473.

 

Sunday, May 06, 2007

ANOTHER CIVIL TRIAL BEGINS TOMORROW IN SHERIDAN'S DISTRICT COURT - Tomorrow a six-person jury will be selected in Sheridan's District Court for a five-day civil trial.  The plaintiff in this case is Wyoming Log Home Manufacturing, who is suing Joe and Margaret Whisenhunt for “unjust enrichment.” Wyoming Log Home did extensive construction and remodeling work at the Whisenhunt's house in Story.  They say the Whisenhunt's still owe them over two-hundred thousand dollars for that work.  The Whisenhunt's contend the project was unreasonably delayed, and they were over-billed for labor and other expenses.  This will be a six-person trial, with hopes that the selection process will go smoothly.  If so, opening arguments should begin Monday afternoon.

ROADS, ROADS AND A TRAFFIC LIGHT FOR SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL - Well, it's that time again — time for another Sheridan City Council meeting.  Tomorrow night the Council will look at adopting a new policy for  annexing County roads, have the final public hearing for the North Broadway/North Gould Streets project ,and also award a bid for a new traffic light at Highland and Loucks.  Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey tells us: Audio . If you want to check out what else the Council is up to, the meeting is tomorrow night at 7 on the third floor of Sheridan City Hall.  You can also listen to the meeting by tuning in to A-M 1410, KWYO, where we will broadcast the meeting live.  

NURSES TO BE HONORED AT SHERIDAN V.A. - Four nurses at the Sheridan Veteran's Administration Medical Center will be honored with a special award Wednesday. Known as the prestigious V.A. Secretary's Award for Excellence in Nursing, the four were nominated and selected by their peers for their outstanding qualities and care they provide to the nation's veterans. The four include:  Lynne Newcomer, a Registered Nurse considered to be an expert in the field of mental health nursing practice.  Along with her job at the V.A., Newcomer also works closely with Sheridan College instructors to assure the school's nursing students receive a productive mental health rotation. Honoree number two is Jean Holwell, also a Registered nurse, serving on the Medical Unit and the ICU.  Holwell serves on a number of committees, including the JCAHO Host Committee, familiarizing staff with Joint Commission accreditation requirements. Jessi Selig is a Licensed Practical Nurse on the Nursing Home Care Unit.  Officials cite her ability to notice changes in a resident's condition and her positive attitude and good humor as some of the reasons for her being honored this year. And the fourth VA Secretary's Award for Excellence in Nursing will go to Carlene Coffin, a Nursing Assistant on the Nursing Home Care Unit.  She volunteers for extra duties, has been actively involved with the cultural transformation on the NCHU, and provides one to one comfort care to residents at the end of their life. Newcomer, Holwell, Selig and Coffin will be recognized at an award presentation at the Sheridan VA Medical Center on Wednesday, May 9th, in the Patient Dining Room of Building 7 at the Sheridan V.A. Medical Center.

UW TRUSTEES VOTE AGAINST TUITION INCREASE - University of Wyoming trustees have voted against raising tuition for resident undergraduates over the next few years. The board voted 10-1 Friday against raising tuition by 3 percent annually for the coming three school years. The increase would have generated about 350-thousand dollars a year in payments by the university's 3-thousand undergraduates who are Wyoming residents. Trustee Peggy Rounds says she opposed increasing tuition while the state continues to fund the Hathaway Scholarship program through a 400-million dollar endowment. Doctor Taylor Haynes of Cheyenne cast the lone vote in favor of higher tuition. He says U-W needs the money to keep pace with inflation.


FLASH FLOOD WATCH ISSUED FOR AREAS OF WYOMING, SOUTH DAKOTA - Federal weather forecasters have issued a flash flood watch for portions of northeastern Wyoming and South Dakota. The National Weather Service in Rapid City, South Dakota, says that one to two inches of rain has fallen over portions of the Big Horns in Wyoming and the Black Hills of South Dakota. The flash flood watch means that some localized flooding along smaller rivers and streams is possible but not imminent. Federal officials say that people in the watch area should take the time to move livestock, equipment and other property from low-lying areas before flooding occurs. People should be ready to move to higher ground if necessary.

Saturday, May 05, 2007

WHAT WILL SHERIDAN COUNTY DO ABOUT SKYROCKETING PROPERTY TAXES? - Sheridan County residents have seen their property taxes increase immensely in recent years.  Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey said last week he wanted to help alleviate some of the burden by lowering the amount of mills the City taxed its residents. Sheridan County Commissioner Terry Cram is also looking into the tax problem, but doesn't think that same approach will work in the County outside the City: Audio. Plus, Terry adds: Audio. A better way to help County residents on fixed incomes he says:Audio. The issue was discussed Thursday at the rescheduled Commissioner Forum; organizers hope to hold more forums in the future.

STUDENT HEALTH FAIR AT SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL WAS ONCE AGAIN A HUGE SUCCESS - Its an annual precursor to the Sheridan High School prom and once again Friday Sheridan High was the site of the student health fair. Courtney Grover is a Junior who has been lead student organizer of the event since she was a Freshman. She explains how the event helps her fellow classmates: Audio. Among the numerous organizations that were on hand for the health fair  was United Blood Services in Billings. Kathy Barker is the school R.N. along with the instructor for the nurses aid program. Her students she says, put in a lot of work to make the blood draw a success: Audio. Kathy points out why getting kids involved in donating blood is so important: Audio. Now that another Sheridan High School Health fair is in the books, students are getting set for the 2007 prom which will take place tonight at the High School.

CHAPS FUNDRAISER IS TONIGHT AT THE SHERIDAN HOLIDAY INN - CHAPS stands for Children, Horses and Adults in Partnership, and they specialize in providing equine-assisted recreational therapy to Sheridan and Johnson county residents.  Tonight is their big fund raiser, dubbed “A Night at the Races.”   There will be wagering on thoroughbred horse racing, dinner and drinks and of course lots of auction items. CHAPS Executive Director, Sue Suddith, tells us about some of the last minute additions to the auction table: Audio. All proceeds from the Night at the Races will benefit children and adults with disabilities riding at CHAPS Equine Assisted Therapy.  The fun begins at the Sheridan Holiday Inn starting at 6:30 this evening.

YOU HAVE ONE MORE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET CHILDRENS BOOK ILLUSTRATOR JAMES WARHOLA - His artwork has been showing for the past several weeks at the Bradford Brinton Gallery in Big Horn.  James Warhola, nephew of 1960's Pop Icon, Andy Warhol, arrived in Sheridan a few days ago, and has been enjoying meeting old fans and making new friends. This afternoon the 5th Annual Illustrator Show will be your last opportunity to meet James, whose work ranges from the vividly and intricately painted Science Fiction pieces he'd done for several book covers, to the delightfully detailed and humorous watercolors of at least seven children's books and even three paintings based on the lyrics of musical theatre hits. James talks here about one of the children's stories, called Aunt Hilarity's Bustle:Audio . A person could easily spend several minutes looking at just one example of Warhola's work, because of the minute (my-noot) details in each piece.  He describes the process of reading the words, forming the idea, and then rendering the final product: Audio. And character they have.  James is happy to talk in depth about each piece, and even though he will be gone after the weekend, the show at Bradford Brinton will be up for one more week, through Mother's Day, May 13th.  And the Illustrator Show runs from 3 to 5 this afternoon.  Regular gallery hours are 9 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday.  Enjoy!

SENATOR ENZI WORKS TO FINALIZE SWEEPING FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION BILL - Every day, half of all Americans take a prescription drug, and no matter what it's for, consumers want to know their prescription drugs have been thoroughly tested and are safe.  Historically, it's been up to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to see to that. In days to come, it will be up to Wyoming's Senator Mike Enzi, along with Democratic colleague, Edward Kennedy, to manage a Senate bill designed to “revitalize” the FDA.  Enzi worked this past week on the Senate floor to advance a bill that would help the FDA better manage how prescription drugs are approved, tested and monitored for safety, both before and after they find their way into our medicine cabinets: Audio. The Food and Drug Administration Revitalization Act would give the FDA more authority to monitor drugs already on the market and explicitly gives the FDA new authority to respond quickly and appropriately when previously unknown risks with a prescription drug or medical device arise: Audio. The senator says the bill is still a work in process, undergoing several amendments.  Enzi is the Ranking Member, and Kennedy the Chairman, of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.

LINDEN AREA CONSTRUCTION ABOUT TO BEGIN - The Linden Street Construction project begins Monday, May 7th, with the removal of trees, and the private utility companies Quest and Bresnan will begin relocating their overhead lines along the avenue underground soon after the trees are gone. Demolition of Burkitt and Griffith Streets will begin Wednesday, May 9th, with work proceeding south on Griffith, then east along Burkitt to Jefferson.  Griffith, Burkitt, Sherman and Jefferson will all be completed prior to any street demolition of Linden. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey and the City's Public Works Department will be issuing weekly communiques, as well as holding weekly construction coordination meetings held in the parking lot of the Child Development Center every Monday at 1 pm, beginning this Monday. Groundbreaking for the project will be Tuesday, May 8th at noon at the intersection of Griffith and Burkitt.  And a reminder – new trees will be planted in the spring of 2008 to replace those that will be removed next week.

 

Friday, May 04, 2007

STUDENT HEALTH FAIR AT SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL WAS ONCE AGAIN A HUGE SUCCESS - Its an annual precursor to the Sheridan High School prom and once again today Sheridan High was the site of the student health fair. Courtney Grover is a Junior who has been lead student organizer of the event since she was a Freshman. She explains how the event helps her fellow classmates: Audio. Among the numerous organizations that were on hand for the health fair  was United Blood Services in Billings. Kathy Barker is the school R.N. along with the instructor for the nurses aid program. Her students she says, put in a lot of work to make the blood draw a success: Audio. Kathy points out why getting kids involved in donating blood is so important: Audio. Now that another Sheridan High School Health fair is in the books, students are getting set for the 2007 prom which will take place tomorrow night at the High School. Video of Health Fair Health Fair

WHAT WILL SHERIDAN COUNTY DO ABOUT SKYROCKETING PROPERTY TAXES? Sheridan County residents have seen their property taxes increase immensely in recent years.  Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey said last week he wanted to help alleviate some of the burden by lowering the amount of mills the City taxed its residents.  Sheridan County Commissioner Terry Cram is also looking into the tax problem, but doesn't think that same approach will work in the County outside the City:Audio. Plus, Terry adds: Audio. A better way to help County residents on fixed incomes he says:Audio.

CHILDRENS BOOK ILLUSTRATOR, JAMES WARHOLA, VISITS BRADFORD BRINTON THIS WEEKEND - He's been at it for 30 years, illustrating children's books written by other authors.  James Warhola, whose work has been on display at the Bradford Brinton Gallery for the past month, decided that instead of hopping from job to job, he'd write a book of his own: Audio. If his name sounds vaguely familiar, drop the last letter of his last name, and you get Warhol, as in 1960's Pop Culture icon, Andy Warhol.  James based his story on a particular trip to Uncle Andy's in 1962, giving readers of all ages an intimate history lesson as well as an entertaining read. Did “Uncle Andy's” art have an influence on James' later work? Audio. This isn't Warhola's first visit to Wyoming – about 25 years ago, he had the misfortune of driving through Cheyenne in the middle of a horrible blizzard, leaving him with a less-than-stellar impression of our state.  So has this visit changed his perception? Audio. You'll have an opportunity to visit with James at a Gallery Talk and Book Signing of Uncle Andy's: A Faabbbulous Visit With Andy Warhol, this evening from 5 to 7 at the Bradford Brinton Gallery in Big Horn.   If you can't make it tonight, tomorrow afternoon you can enjoy the 5th Annual Illustrator Show from 3 to 5.  All events are free and open to the public.

A BURGLARY SUSPECT FROM A CRIME COMMITTED LAST YEAR AT Q-MAN MUSIC APPEARS IN SHERIDAN'S CIRCUIT COURT THURSDAY - A burglary suspect was finally apprehended and appeared in Court yesterday.   Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the details: Audio.           

SHERIDAN COLLEGE RODEO TEAM TO HOST PAT HAMILTON MEMORIAL RODEO AT THE FAIRGROUNDS - Starting this afternoon at one, the Sheridan College rodeo team will host the 16th Annual Pat Hamilton Memorial Rodeo at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: Audio.
Slack @ 1 pm today. Main performance @ 7 pm tonight
         Saturday - Slack @ 8 am. Main performance @ 2 pm
         Sunday- Final go around will be @ 11 am.
        All will take place at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds Admission is $5

OUR SERIES ON AUTISM CONCLUDES WITH A CLOSER LOOK AT THE SON-RISE METHOD  - Throughout the week, we've been reporting on Autism and how a unique method, called the Son-Rise Program, based in Massachusetts, has found its way to helping a 13-year-old Sheridan boy with autism.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson concludes her series: Audio. Son-Rise can be reached by visiting:  www.autismtreatmentcenter.org

SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSONER'S TALK ABOUT ... ALMOST EVERYTHING - Skyrocketing property tax rates, genetically modified crops and the ongoing drought are all issues brought up during last night's County Commissioner forum.  The event was hosted by the Ag/Natural Resources Public Lands Arm of the Sheridan Chamber, and over 40 people attended the event to learn a little about the Commissioner's perspective on the future of Sheridan County. Sheridan Media's Betsy Love spoke with J.R. And his wife, Helen, about what they thought of the forum: Audio. Commissioner Bob Rolston mentioned the forum was educational for him, as well: Audio.The plan is to hold more of these forums, so be sure to stay tuned.  And later today, we will bring you more details about one of the issues discussed last night—rapidly increasing property taxes.

FORMER CHAIR OF THE SHERIDAN COLLEGE BOARD, CHARLENE BODINE, TO BE HONORED AT THIS YEAR'S COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES - Sheridan College 2007 Distinguished Alumna, Charlene Bodine, will be honored during Commencement Ceremonies on the Sheridan College front lawn next week. Bodine recently retired from the Northern Wyoming Community College District Board after 16 ½ years of service.  During that time, Bodine served in all of the officer positions, including three years as Board Chair.During Bodine's tenure as a Trustee, she held a national office with the Association of Community College Trustees, as well as many local committee appointments.  She was elected chair of the Wyoming State Trustee Association; she received the Wyoming Association of Community College Trustee Leadership Award in 2003; and she was instrumental in holding a statewide retreat for Trustees and college presidents to help all colleges work more effectively as a group with the Wyoming Community College Commission.The Sheridan College 2007 Commencement Ceremonies will be held Saturday, May 12th on the front lawn of the campus.

SHERIDAN COUNTY LAW ENFORCEMENT TAKING PART IN SPECIAL OLYMPICS TORCH RUN NEXT WEEK - The 2007 Region 4 Special Olympics competition got underway Thursday in Sheridan, and events are planned throughout today as well. Special Olympics Wyoming will take place in Laramie next weekend, and Sheridan County Sheriff's Deputy, Sandy Lytle, tells us what they've got planned for early next week: Audio. Sandy says that Sheriff Hofmeier himself, among others, will be taking part in the event: Audio. Special Olympics Wyoming begins next Thursday through Saturday in Laramie.

TWO UW TEAMS SCORE LOW ON ACADEMIC REPORT  - The University of Wyoming men's basketball and wrestling teams failed to meet NCAA standards for academic progress over the past three years. UW Associate Athletics Director, Kevin McKinney, says the University is taking steps to improve. The NCAA compiles an Academic Progress Rate that measures eligibility and retention of student athletes for every program at every Division One school.  Teams scoring less than 925 receive warning letters and could face harsher sanctions over the next three years if they don't improve. According to the NCAA report, UW men's basketball scored 881 and wrestling 918.  Teams with academic progress rates below 900 get public warnings. UW men's basketball was one of 49 teams to get such warnings. UW football scored at 932, women's basketball tallied 979 and the women's golf team compiled the best score at 990. Poor academic performance was one of the reasons behind the firing of men's basketball coach Steve McClain in March.

TOM BUCHANAN GIVEN A LONG-TERM CONTRACT AS UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING PRESIDENT - The University of Wyoming Board of Trustees has given UW President, Tom Buchanan, a four-year contract that will extend through June 2011. UW Trustees President, Dick Davis, of Sheridan, says of the extension: Audio. Buchanan, who at the time was Vice President for Academic Affairs, was selected in March 2005 to replace Philip L. Dubois, who resigned to become chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.  On his being awarded the contract, Buchanan says: Audio. Buchanan's contract calls for an annual base salary of 300-thousand dollars, with a 42-thousand dollar housing allowance and a 6-thousand dollar allowance for use of a university vehicle and insurance. The Board was unanimous in its vote to award Buchanan's contract.

 

Thursday, May 03, 2007

SHERIDAN HOSTS THE REGIONAL SPECIAL OLYMPICS COMPETITION TODAY AND TOMORROW - With Opening Ceremonies about to begin, the 2007 Regional Special Olympics competition will be under way in Sheridan today and tomorrow.  James Buxton is on the staff at RENEW, and also a third-year participant in the games.  He tells us what he enjoys about taking part: Audio. James, who loves to shoot hoops, will be on the basketball team, and he says that there will be different levels of competition to coincide with the skill level of the players – in other words, everyone has a chance to compete: Audio. The basketball game begins at 1 this afternoon. Action continues Friday morning at 9 with the swimming competition, to be held at the pool in the Early Building at Sheridan Jr. High School.  James will be assisting with the Track & Field competition, which runs from 9 am to noon at the SHS field. The two-day event is a precursor to the State Special Olympic Games to be held next weekend in Laramie. Video of Special Olympics Opening Ceremonies Special Olympics

LOWER TAXES FOR SHERIDAN RESIDENTS MIGHT BE ON THE WAY - Local property taxes over the past few years seem to be racing to the top. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey just announced that will change, if he has anything to say about that: Audio. Almost everyone has felt the pinch from rising costs, but there are some hit especially hard: Audio. How much a city taxes itself can sometimes be a factor when applying for certain State grants — but Kinskey says that is a battle he is willing to fight: Audio. Whether property taxes are lowered depends on how the rest of Sheridan City Council decides to vote.  The property tax levy will be voted on in June.

IT CAN BE SAD WHEN DEVELOPMENT BRINGS TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING - Sometimes, development bringing too much of a good thing can be heart-wrenching.  Sheridan Media’s Betsy Love Audio.    

HAVE YOU BEEN TO KENDRICK GOLF COURSE LATELY? -  It is official—the new irrigation system at Sheridan Kendrick Golf Course is up and running.  Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey: Audio. The project, which started about a year ago, cost around a million dollars. Video of Golf at Kendrick Golf Park Kendrick Golf

WHAT DO SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS THINK ABOUT CBM WATER, ETHENOL AND RISING HOME PRICES? -  What do Sheridan County Commissioners think about CBM impacts in Sheridan County, rising home prices locally, and ethanol?  Well, you can find out this evening.    The County Commissioner forum,  organized by the Sheridan Chamber Ag and Public Lands Committee, was originally scheduled during that tiny snowstorm that shut down the region about a month ago,  so they rescheduled it for tonight.  Jamie Martin, who is on the Ag committee, reminds us about the program: Audio. The Watt Ag Center at Sheridan College is where members of our community will hear Bob, Terry and Steve discuss their vision for the future of our area.  The program starts at five tonight, is free and open to the public.

SPACE STILL AVAILABLE FOR POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS AT THE ANNUAL JOB FAIR - The annual Job Fair, sponsored by the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce, will be held next Thursday, May 10th, and spokesperson Debi Isakson says they could still use a few more employers to host a booth at the fair: Audio. Debi talks about a perk for the students: Audio. Along with information about your company, Debi tells employers: Audio. If you would like to host a booth and perhaps come away from the day with a summer employee or two, call Sheridan County Chamber at 672-2485 or email info@sheridanwyomingchamber.org Again, the 2007 Job Fair is next Thursday from 3 pm to 5 pm in the Sheridan High School gymnasium.

PART 3 OF OUR SERIES ON AUTISM LOOKS AT THE SPECTRUM UPON WHICH AUTISTIC CHARACTERISTICS FALL - 1 in 150 children by age 8.  That's the startling statistic we reported that experts now say those numbers are diagnosed who have some degree of autism. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson continues her series with a look at the autistic spectrum: Audio.      

YELLOWSTONE ANNOUNCES SAFETY/SOBRIETY CHECKPOINTS THROUGHOUT TODAY AT THE PARK - Yellowstone National Park will be doing something today that is a little bit out of the norm; however, the purpose is to keep everyone within the park as safe as possible. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter explains: Audio.     

REPRESENTATIVE BARBARA CUBIN WEIGHS IN ON THE U.S. HOUSE'S DECISION TO UPHOLD THE PRESIDENT'S VETO - In a vote of 222 to 203  Wednesday, the U.S. House, as expected, failed to get enough votes to override the presidential veto of the Iraq War supplemental spending bill. U.S Representative from Wyoming,  Barbara Cubin, voted against the override, and says that she will continue to vote against such legislation: Audio. Following the vote, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi said that although Democrats will continue to work with the White House “there is a great distance between us right now.” House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said that he hoped a new bill will be passed in the next couple of weeks with a final bill to be on the President's desk before the Memorial Day recess.

UW SEARCHES FOR DIRECTOR OF  SOCIAL JUSTICE RESEARCH CENTER - The search has begun for a director of the new Social Justice Research Center at the University of Wyoming. The director will be selected from the U-W faculty for a two-year period with the opportunity for one additional two-year appointment. U-W Professor of Educational Studies Francisco Rios, explains what the center will emphasize: Audio. Rios says the director's duties would be to develop a shared vision for the center; working with students and U-W faculty on social justice issues and grant development, as well as fund raising to advance the center's goals.

 

Wednesday, May 02, 2007


Corner broken off base of Baptismal Font at Holy Name Catholic Church

Smashed marble on Holy Name's Altar

VANDALISM OVER THE WEEKEND TO ALTAR AND BAPTISMAL FONT AT HOLY NAME CATHOLIC CHURCH - Vandalism of any kind is never acceptable, but especially more so when vandalism occurs in a church.  Such was the case Friday morning, when it was discovered that someone destroyed the black marble altar and baptismal font in the sanctuary at Holy Name Catholic Church in Sheridan. Father Tom Ogg tells us how they first found the damage: Audio. Father Ogg describes the condition of the altar and baptismal font: Audio. This isn't, unfortunately, the only time the church has been vandalized; Father Ogg says that about two years ago, someone had damaged their baby grand piano.  Does the church remain open 24-7? Audio. Father Ogg says that there are several people who have keys that allow them outside access to the side chapel for Eucharistic Adoration around the clock, but the sanctuary is locked from that 8 pm time until morning Mass. There are no suspects in this crime, and if anyone listening has any information, please call the Sheridan Police Department or the Crimestoppers Hotline – your call will remain anonymous.  Sheridan P.D. - 672-2413 or Crimestoppers - 672-7463

PINNACLE GAS RESOURCES GOES PUBLIC - Sheridan company, Pinnacle Gas Resources Inc. has set its proposed IPO terms in its regulatory filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  A report from Reuters states that Pinnacle's initial public offering of 3 point 75 million shares is expected to be priced at between 10 and 12 dollars. Selling stockholders have granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 562-thousand 500 common shares. Pinnacle is an onshore natural gas exploration and development company which has been headquartered in Sheridan for about eight years.  Plans are to trade on the Nasdaq, under the ticker symbol PINN, with Friedman Billings Ramsey serving as lead underwriter.

IN PART 2 OF A SERIES, WE FIND OUT THE PROGRESS THE SON-RISE PROGRAM HAS HAD ON A SHERIDAN BOY WITH AUTISM - Yesterday we began a series looking at how a unique therapeutic method called the Son-Rise program has been unlocking the speaking abilities for a Sheridan boy with autism.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson brings us part 2: Audio.

SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS DISCUSSED JUVENILE DETENTION - The Sheridan County Commissioner's first public May meeting was a short one; one of the few items on the agenda was accepting a grant for juvenile detention.  Commissioner Bob Rolston: Audio. Also be sure to drop by the Sheridan County Courthouse: Audio. The “Hopeful Hands Quilt” will be on display for about a week, and then will move to several other locations in Sheridan. And another reminder -- the County Commissioner's Forum that had previously been scheduled for the end of March, until the big snow fell, has been rescheduled for tomorrow at 5 at the Watt Ag Center on the Sheridan College campus.  It is free, and the public is welcome.

Sheridan Community Snapshot


Juror Appreciation Day
Chicken Little on the Witness stand at
Juror Appreciation Day
Sheridan County Courthouse, May 01, 2007

RANCHESTER COUNCIL GETS UPDATES ON PROJECTS AND TWEAKS THEIR GARBAGE PICKUP DAYS - Ranchester's Town Council, at their meeting last night, got a report from Mayor Cliff Clevenger on several of the town's projects, and also debated a change to their garbage pickup days. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has this report: Audio.    

TESTIMONY REGARDING A POTENTIALLY DEADLY BEATING WAS HEARD AT SHERIDAN COUNTY COURTHOUSE TUESDAY - An aggravated assault case, which legally means potentially life-threatening and is a felony, was heard in Sheridan Circuit Court late Tuesday.  Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has the story: Audio.          

WHAT IS THE STATE OF THE CITY IN SHERIDAN?  YOU CAN FIND OUT THURSDAY - Local Democrats are meeting tomorrow night in Sheridan and will have a prominent guest in attendance to give a “State of the City” address.  Susie Cannon, who is a month into being the new local Chair of the Democratic Party tells us: Audio. And the time and location for Thursday's “State of the City” address by Mayor Kinskey?  Seven o'clock at the inner circle at Sheridan Fulmer Public Library. Susie adds their meeting will be kept to an hour.

 

 

 

Tuesday, May 01, 2007

WHITNEY BENEFITS APPROVES OPTION TO BUY AGREEMENT WITH DEVELOPER ON THE SITE OF THE OLD CENTRAL MIDDLE SCHOOL - In an announcement this afternoon Whitney Benefits through a board resolution has entered into an agreement with Developer Paul DelRossi and his group La Buena Vida  to develop the site of the old Central Middle School. The agreement is an option to purchase the six acre's of land. Developer Paul DelRossi explains his vision for the area: Audio. DelRossi tells us what the next step is in the process of making the development reality: Audio. Paul said that definitive plans for the area will most likely be ready   by the end of the year and that in the next couple of months he'd like to have a community meeting where those living in the area can give their input on what they'd like to see on the land.

THE FINAL SCIENCE LECTURE IN THE SPRING SERIES AT THE SHERIDAN COLLEGE MOHNS CENTER TO TAKE PLACE TOMORROW EVENING - The Spring 2007 Science Lecture Series concludes tomorrow evening, with presenter Lynne Jahnke leading the discussion: Audio. Jahnke knows wildlife – he's a biologist with the Sheridan Regional Office of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.  The cause of Chronic Wasting Disease remains a mystery, he says: Audio.   Has he seen many C.W.D. cases in the Sheridan area? Audio. Jahnke will have a power point presentation with pictures of animals that have the disease, how they go about collecting samples, and other related data.  The lecture begins at 7 tomorrow evening at the Mohns Science Center on the Sheridan College Campus – that's the building with the observatory.  It is free and open to the public.

SOME TREES WILL BE DONNING ORANGE THIS WEEK — BUT NOT FOR LONG - Expect to see some orange paint on trees in Sheridan this week.  Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey: Audio. But the trees aren't in the street — why do they have to go? Audio. So Sheridan isn't becoming “anti-tree?” Audio. If you have any questions call Mayor Kinskey at Sheridan City Hall or Hanns Mercer at EnTech.

THE DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION REPORTS DRUG ARRESTS - Ira Tucker and Dara Kinion from Mills, Wyoming were recently arrested.  Louey Williams, local DCI Team Leader: Audio. These arrests stem from an investigation that revealed the two suspects, Tucker and Kinion, were involved in the sale of marijuana and methamphetamine in the Sheridan Area.  This investigation is ongoing. 

TICK SEASON IS STARTING EARLY THIS YEAR - With the warmer weather looking like it is finally here to stay for the season, Sheridan Media's Betsy Love has some info to keep you and your pets safe: Audio.  

IN PART 1 OF A SERIES, WE'LL LOOK AT HOW A UNIQUE PROGRAM IS HELPING TO UNLOCK THE MIND OF AN AUTISTIC SHERIDAN BOY - National Autism Awareness Month just ended yesterday, and you'll remember last week we'd done a report on an autism screening held in Sheridan.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson begins a series about a unique method being used at RENEW Kares in Sheridan: Audio. For more information, call the Son-Rise Program, through the Option Institute:   (413) 229-2100

LITERACY VOLUNTEERS OF NORTHERN WYOMING TO HAVE SCRABBLE TOURNAMENT SATURDAY - Literacy Volunteers of Northern Wyoming Inc. is having their annual  scrabble tournament this Saturday night in Sheridan. It's their biggest fund raiser of the year, and Chairperson Fred Haddenhorst gives us some of the details: Audio. So just what will teams be playing for? Audio. Fred says that there'll be about twenty items that will be available through the silent auction too: Audio. The cost for the scrabble tournament is twenty dollars per two-person teams, with all of the profits supporting the Literacy Volunteers of Northern Wyoming. It will be this Saturday night from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm at First Christian Church in Sheridan. You can sign up in advance by calling Literacy Volunteers, or you can pay at the door.

MUD POTS AN UNWELCOME SURPRISE IN WYOMING'S RED DESERT - Holes of muddy, bubbling goo have been mysteriously popping up in the Atlantic Rim area of Wyoming's Red Desert. Steve Jones with the Wyoming Outdoor Council says initial tests show that these “mud pots” could be from CBM development: Audio. The Bureau of Land Management is considering allowing more CBM wells to be drilled in the area; however, Jones states that those plans should be put on hold until the cause of these “mud pots” is identified.Audio. Jones also pointed out that the “mud pots” are up to five feet across,  they pose a hazard to livestock and wildlife, and they are also a source of air pollution. Several CBM drilling companies in the area have said that they plan to investigate the problem.


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