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

Wednesday October 31, 2007

SHERIDAN COUNTY DETENTION CENTER KITCHEN REMODEL NOW UNDERWAY - It's been a bit of a wait, but the kitchen facility at the Sheridan County Detention Center is finally undergoing a remodel.  Sheridan County Sheriff, Dave Hofmeier, with the good news:10-31-05. Hofmeier says that currently, Sheridan's facility stores the frozen T.V. meals in four standard-size freezers – they prepare those at the detention center.  Dinners are now prepared at Sheridan Memorial Hospital and then transported to the jail.The catering company is from South Dakota, and they have a lot of detention center experience, the sheriff tells us: . With the new detention center kitchen design, they will now have a walk-in freezer in which they can store more bulk products, thereby helping to reduce the cost of preparing each meal.  Hofmeier explains how the new kitchen will be run: . If all goes well, Sheriff Hofmeier hopes to have the new kitchen up and running by the end of February.

 PART 2 OF STAPH INFECTION PREVENTION & TREATMENT SERIES LOOKS AT COUNTY-WIDE POLICIES - Yesterday we told you about Staph bacteria, and today we'll cover the policies of local organizations and what their standard operating procedures are to prevent the spread of bacteria.  Reporter Kate Fetterly has the Story: .

CAREGIVER MONTH ENDS TODAY, BUT CAREGIVING CONTINUES 365 DAYS A YEAR - As October ends today so, too, ends National Caregiver Month.  But as anyone who serves as a caregiver for an ill family member or friend knows, the care giving doesn't stop when the new month begins.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has more: .

GROUNDBREAKING SET FOR FRIDAY FOR DRY FORK STATION NEAR GILLETTE - The groundbreaking for a project that has been in the works for nearly five years will take place this Friday just Northeast of Gillette. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: . 

WYOMING WILDERNESS ASSOCIATION HONORS TOM ALLEN AND MARKS AN ANNIVERSARY - The Wyoming Wilderness Association gave their first-ever Legacy Award to whom they call a “Wilderness Hero” -- Tom Allen.   The award recognizes Allen's contributions from 1972 to 1984 in building local support to help pass the 1984 Wilderness Act that eventually included over 3 million acres of wilderness. Tom Allen is a retired Biology teacher who worked in Sheridan and Buffalo for 30 years.  He led many hikes that helped to map the area now known as the Cloud Peak Wilderness, and was instrumental in helping to incorporate it into the 1984 Wyoming Wilderness Act.The award was given to Allen on the 23rd anniversary of the Act being signed into law in Congress.  Allen comments on his award and how he did it: . Today, the Wyoming Wilderness Association is trying to achieve Wilderness status for the Rock Creek Roadless Area, which was left out of the Act in 1984 at the last minute.Senator Mike Enzi, who was a student of Allen's, is a key element in the wilderness designation, because it takes a congressional stamp of approval to create one.

WYOMING GAME AND FISH APPLAUDS CITY FOR BOW HUNTING MANAGEMENT - In the wake of a terrible poaching incident on our very own KROE Lane last week, we decided to investigate the recent number of incidences of poaching and what the public can do to help stop this type of crime. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: . For more information, call the Wyoming Game and Fish Stop Poaching Hotline: 1 877-WGFD-TIP.

SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL FFA TO HOST HALLOWEEN HAUNTED HOUSE - This year, the Sheridan High School's Future Farmers of America, or FFA, will host the annual Haunted House at Sheridan High School.  FFA president, Chali Townsend, explains: . Townsend says that they would like to provide an alternative to traditional Halloween festivities with the Haunted House: . Townsend gives a summary about what is going on tonight: . You are welcome to join in on the fun at SAFE night, tonight between 5:30 and 8:30 at Sheridan High School. And for a list of other organizations' special family-friendly Halloween parties, check out the Community Calender link on our website at Sheridan Media dot com.

DAN MILLER'S HALLOWEEN HOUSE IS ONCE AGAIN A SITE TO BEHOLD - Today of course is Halloween and what better way to celebrate it then transforming your home into something that resembles a scene from a horror movie. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: . Video of Dan Miller's Haunted House

SAGEBRUSH ELEMENTARY TO HOST TRUNK-OR-TREAT - Sagebrush Elementary School will be hosting their annual Trunk-Or-Treat event in the school's parking lot this evening, but participants need to assist in two ways. First, to ensure the safety of the children, school officials are asking that they fill the parking lot with as many cars as possible, as opposed to having the candy-filled trunks on the street.  Please arrive between 5 and 6.  At six, they'll close off the parking lot, and the fun begins. The next way you can help is by contributing bags of candy – the school can't fulfill the large demand.

Tuesday October 30, 2007

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL WEEKLY WORK SESSION COVERS TRAFFIC PLAN  - Sheridan City Council Chambers were filled with numerous community officials to hear a presentation on the City's Comprehensive Transportation Plan during the City Council's Work Session yesterday. Sheridan Media Reporter Kate Fetterly was there and has this report: .

LOUCKS STREET PUNCH THROUGH A MAJOR ISSUE ADDRESSED IN CITY TRANSPORTATION PLAN PRESENTED ON MONDAY - The Loucks Street punch-through was a significant topic at Monday's City Council Work Session. It's considered a major east-west arterial to access downtown from South Sheridan Avenue, in addition to Burkitt, Brundage, and Works Streets. Several community members spoke out about that, including members of Joint Powers boards. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: .

PART 1 OF STAPH INFECTION PREVENTION/TREATMENT SERIES - Earlier this month a 17-year-old high school student in the state of Virginia died as a result of a drug resistant Staph infection.  In the first of a two part series, we'll detail the background of the strain of the deadly staph bacteria, and what you can do to prevent contracting the  infection that goes along with it.  Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: .   

TONGUE RIVER COMMUNITY CENTER HOSTS HALLOWEEN BLOOD DRIVE - The Tongue River Community Blood Drive will be taking place tomorrow from 1 to 6 pm for anyone interested in donating blood to help out the people of Wyoming.  Everyone is encouraged to donate, and as Riki Davidson explains, appointments help but they are not necessary: . To be able to donate blood, you must be at least 17, or have written permission from a parent, and weigh at least 110 pounds.  There are some health considerations as well, and one thing that could keep you from donating blood may come as a surprise to some: . Anyone who wants to donate blood can come to the Tongue River Valley Community Center on Halloween from 1 to 6 pm as a walk-in or at an appointed time.  Davidson recommends eating a good meal and drinking lots of fluids before and after you donate.  If you would like to set up an appointment, call Riki Davidson: 655-9400.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE SPEECH TEAM BRINGS HOME HONORS FROM COLORADO SPRINGS - Last week we told you about the award-winning Sheridan College Speech Team as they headed for their biggest tournament of the Fall season – the 63rd Annual James Johnson Forensic Invitational held at Colorado College in Colorado Springs. So how did they fare?  With a team of ten participants, Sheridan's group earned enough Sweepstakes points to win third place in individual events; second place among two-year colleges; and fifth place ranking overall – not bad, when you consider they were among competitors from the US Air Force Academy, the University of Wyoming, University of Houston, Texas Tech, Rice University, and Western Kentucky, to name a few.You'll remember we shared a few seconds of the ten-minute “Private War” duo piece Austin Bramwell and Aaron Graham prepared – they took fifth place in a competition that assistant coach Sarah Henderson, noting in a statement, said “that teams use the “Colorado College tournament as a touchstone for national competition, making winning that much more difficult.”
 Rick Miller - 1st Place Informative Speaking; 5th Place in Program Oral Interpretation; 3rd Place in Duo Interpretation with partner David   Demic.
Austin Bramwell - 2nd in Dramatic Interpretation; 5th in Poetry Interpretation; 5th in Duo Interpretation with partner Aaron Graham; 6th in Program Oral Interpretation.
Aaron Graham - 3rd in Informative Speaking; 6th in After Dinner Speaking; 3rd with debate partner Ross Bunn in Novice NPDA  Debate.
Freshman Alexis Majors received the Top Junior Varsity Speaker Award in Persuasive Speaking.
Michele Folster took home Top Junior Varsity Speaker Award in Dramatic Interpretation, and also placed 3rd in that event; 4th with partner    Katie Buffington in Top Junior Varsity Duo Award.
Katie Buffington - 3rd in Prose; Top Junior Varsity Speaker award; 4th in Program Oral Interpretation.
Ross Bunn - 5th in Prose; 4th in Duo Interpretation with partner Michele Folster, tying with SCC's other duo team of Michele Folster and   Katie Buffington.
Devin Goodwin - 6th in Dramatic Interpretation; 7th in Duo Interpretation with partner Alexis Jones.
Aaron Graham and debate partner Ross Bunn compiled a 4-6 record in Junior Parliamentary Debate, which advanced  them to the Semi-          Final round. 
Alexis Majors, Aaron Graham and David Demic all won Junior Novice Debate Speaker awards.

PHEASANT SEASON OPENS IN SHERIDAN AND JOHNSON COUNTIES THIS WEEKEND - Soon big game hunting season will be drawing to a close in northeast Wyoming, but as one season winds down another begins. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: .           

WYOMING RANCHERS SEE REAL BEEF IN FARM BILL - Wyoming ranchers have been pushing for legislation that would put limits on meat packer ownership of livestock; the Senate Ag Committee Farm Bill that was just approved should get ranchers what they've wanted. John Francis with the Independent Cattlemen of Wyoming describes how the farm bill will make the market more free and fair: . Furthermore, Francis said that U.S. Senator Mike Enzi is planning on introducing an amendment to the Farm Bill that would guarantee that market prices aren't fixed by big meat packing companies, and that in turn would mean that prices have to be set in contracts, instead of being done behind closed doors.

Monday October 29, 2007

DELEGATION TO HOLD OFFICE HOURS IN SHERIDAN TODAY - The representatives for U.S. Senator John Barrasso, U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, and Congresswoman Barbara Cubin will be in Sheridan and Dayton today to talk with residents in the Sheridan County area.  Kendall Hartman, Field Representative for Senator John Barrasso, explains what they are coming out here for:.  The representatives will be in Dayton at the Dayton Town Hall this morning from 9 to 10, and in Sheridan in the Whitney Room at the Sheridan County YMCA from 3 to 4 this afternoon.  Hartman says that all comments and concerns will go back to Senators Barrasso and Enzi, and Congresswoman Cubin. If you cannot make it to see the representatives, and would like information or assistance contact: Senator Enzi's Gillette Office: 307-682-6268, Senator Barrasso's Sheridan Office: 307-672-6456, Congresswoman Cubin's Casper Office: 307-261-6595.

ANTIQUE BELLS WILL BE RINGING AT THE NEW SCHOOLS IN BIG HORN, THANKS TO THE BIG HORN HISTORICAL SOCIETY - Two antique bells will be coming back into use in the very near future in Big Horn. Sheridan County School District One has requested of the Big Horn City Historical Society to use two antique bells in the construction of their new schools in Big Horn. Judy Slack of the Big Horn City Historical Society gives us the details: . The two bells date back to the early 1890's, and got their start at two schools in Big Horn. The bells had numerous homes over the years in the Big Horn Area, including one having been nearly lost in an iron scrap pile in the early 1980's. In the early 1990's, both bells made their way where they are today, on display outside of the Bozeman Trail Museum in Big Horn, near the Big Horn Women's Club. School District One will be in charge of restoring the bells, but the Historical Society will always retain ownership rights. The Big Horn City Historical Society will meet again for their regular meeting on November 18th.In other Historical Society News, the Sheridan County Historical Society announced it's 2008 Board officers; they include Judy Musgrave as President, Tom Ringley for Vice President,  Karen Gardner as Treasurer and Mary Ellen McWilliams as Secretary. Past President Linda Prill has retired from the board, but will remain involved as a volunteer.

WEEKLY POLL QUESTION ASKS OPINION ABOUT NEW HUNTING RESOLUTION - On October 1st, the City of Sheridan passed a resolution that made it legal for bow hunters to hunt deer in certain areas of the Sheridan city limits.  Only open space properties are included in this new resolution, and all hunters must have the proper license from the Wyoming Game and Fish and a free permission paper from the Sheridan Police Department before they can hunt these zones.  We decided to find out what your opinion was: Do you agree with the resolution allowing bow hunters to hunt deer within some areas of Sheridan's city limits? . Let us know what you think.  Answer the poll question and feel free to leave comments in the forum.  Then be sure to listen for the results on Open Line Friday, in the 9 o'clock hour on News-Talk 9-30 KROE.

ELLBOGEN FOUNDATION GIFTS $1 MILLION TO UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING - The John P. Ellbogen Foundation has pledged one million dollars to the University of Wyoming to support the College of Education Dean's Excellence Fund. UW College of Education Dean Pat McClurg says the college has worked with the Ellbogen Foundation on several projects to support excellence in education: . The gift will be matched dollar for dollar by the state's matching fund program. This latest commitment brings the Ellbogen Foundation's total gifts and pledges to UW to more than four point nine million dollars.

PARENTS – MARK YOUR CALENDARS WITH CONFERENCE SCHEDULE - Hard to believe, but the first nine weeks of school are nearing an end, and Parent/Teacher conferences are scheduled for this Thursday afternoon and most of the day Friday for Sheridan County School District 2. There is no school on Friday; here is the schedule for the early bus pick-up on Thursday:Kindergarten children will be picked up at 11:25 Thursday morning.  Elementary pupils in 1st through 5th grades will be let out at 12:35.  Over at the Sheridan Junior High School and Ft. Mackenzie / The Wright Place campuses, kids will be released at 1:07.  And Sheridan High School will dismiss students at 1:17.We have this posted on our Community Calendar, as well.School will resume on Monday, November 5th.

DAYCARE TO BE PROVIDED AT PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES  - In effort to get more parents involved with their student's academics, Sheridan High School will provide childcare for families who have younger kids, so moms and dads are able to attend this week's Parent/Teacher conferences at SHS. National Honor Society members have volunteered to watch children while parents visit with teachers, and National Honor Society President Nick Hill explains: . Parent Teacher conferences at Sheridan High School will be held Thursday, November 1st from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.  They will also be held on Friday, November 2nd from 8:00 am to noon, in the Sheridan High School small gym.

MOMS CLUB GIVES STUDENTS OPPORTUNITY TO HELP COMMUNITY AND HAVE FUN ON THEIR UPCOMING DAY OFF - Jumping in with a community service opportunity while students have this Friday off from District 2 schools is the MOMS Club of Sheridan.  Representative of the group, Carlee Hansen, has the details: . MOMS Club is a group of stay-at-home moms with young children who get together for activities in which their kids can take part, and from the way Carlee describes it, they keep busy: . Hansen says they always welcome new participants, and it's a great way for newcomers to the area to meet new friends, for the moms as well as the children.And remember – two cans of food to the matinee and early evening show of “The Bee Movie” this Friday gets your kids a free kid’s pack to enjoy during the film. For more information, call Carlee Hansen:  655-9292

BEAR PROBLEMS PERSIST IN TETON COUNTY - Wildlife managers say people in Teton County don't seem to be getting the message about keeping garbage and food away from bears, as problems persist with bears trying to get into homes inJackson Hole. Last week, a black bear that repeatedly tried to get into homesin Moran had to be put down. It was the 10th black bear that waskilled for causing trouble in the area this year.  Also, at least 25 bears  have been moved for becoming used to getting into garbage and other human food sources.Wyoming Game and Fish officials say bears have had well over 175 conflicts with people in Jackson Hole this year alone. A conflict is defined as either property damage or injury to a person or a bear.  By comparison, 150 conflicts were reported over the previous five years.

Sunday October 28, 2007

PET-O-WEEN RE-CAP - Families and their pets enjoyed a beautiful fall day at Kendrick Park for the 7th annual Pet-O-Ween Costume Contest. Over 60 contestants dressed up Fido and Fluffy their pets and entered them to win for the scariest, funniest or most creative costume categories. Sheridan Media Reporter Kate Fetterly was there and has this story: .

SHERIDAN COUNTY CHILDREN PROVIDED MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO CELEBRATE AN EARLY HALLOWEEN - Sheridan County children had plenty of chances to get in on the tricks and treats of this year's Halloween-- a few days early. Sheridan Media reporter Kate Fetterly has the details: . Video of Sheridan Park & Rec. District Halloween Party

DON'T MISS THE FUN AT THE WASATCH GUN SHOW TODAY! - If you're looking for one more thing to pack into this already busy weekend, then look no further and listen in! The Wasatch gun show is going on at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds. Dwight Schubert, a vendor offering guns for sale, offers this rundown of what you can find at the Exhibit Hall: . But wait! There's more! Bob Lanier who's another vendor at the show lists what other specialty items you'll see out there: . Lanier said the Wasatch gun show has been going on for nearly twenty years. Hours today run from 9 am until 3 pm at the exhibit hall on the fairgrounds in Sheridan.

WYOMING CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO HOLD OFFICE HOURS IN SHERIDAN TOMORROW - Tomorrow, the representatives for U.S. Senator John Barrasso, U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, and Congresswoman Barbara Cubin will be in Sheridan and Dayton to talk with residents in the Sheridan County area.  Kendall Hartman, Field Representative for Senator John Barrasso, explains what they are coming out here for: . The representatives will be in Dayton tomorrow at the Dayton Town Hall from 9 to 10 am , and in Sheridan in the Whitney Room at the Sheridan County YMCA from 3 to 4 pm.  Hartman says that all comments and concerns will go back to Senators Barrasso and Enzi, and Congresswoman Cubin. If you cannot make it to see the representatives, and would like information or assistance contact: KIM – Senator Enzi's Gillette Office: 307-682-6268, Senator Barrasso's Sheridan Office: 307-672-6456, Congresswoman Cubin's Casper Office: 307-261-6595.

Saturday, October 27, 2007

SHERIDAN MEDIA'S SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL INTERN RECOUNTS POWER OUTAGE AT SCHOOL YESTERDAY - Yesterday Sheridan High School experienced an adventure when a faulty cable in the school's underground electrical system went out, causing an early dismissal of classes.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson sat down with our SHS intern, Sarah Turner, for a first-hand account of the day: .

A VALIANT RALLY COULD NOT BRING A WIN TO THE TONGUE RIVER EAGLES FOOTBALL MATCH AGAINST SARATOGA - Tongue River Eagles opened up the first round in the Class 2A playoffs by taking to the road to play the Saratoga Panthers.  Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the re-cap: . We'll broadcast that Big Horn game next week on AM 14-10 KWYO. 

SENATOR ENZI ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR SPRING INTERNSHIPS - U.S. Senator Mike Enzi is encouraging folks interested in a spring internship position at his D.C. office to apply as soon as possible.  The deadline is November 9th, with the internship period running from January 7th, 2008 to the end of May, 2008. Interns are responsible for a broad range of duties, some of which include constituent services, Capitol tours and research on various issues.  Interns also have the opportunity to attend floor proceedings, committee hearings and lectures given by government leaders. Some universities and colleges offer school credit hours for internship programs, and the senator encourages candidates to look into specific programs their schools provide. Calling the experience a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Enzi said in a statement that interns have the chance “to meet remarkable people, gain experience and knowledge in their field of study, witness the workings of the government first-hand, and experience the energy and excitement of life in Washington, D.C.” Applications online at:  enzi.senate.gov Fax them to: (202) 228-0359 Questions?  Call Leah Burke, Senator Enzi's intern coordinator, at (202) 224-3424 or toll free at (888) 250-1879

AUTHORITIES CONCERNED ABOUT SEXUAL MUTILATION OF BULLS IN EASTERN IDAHO - Ranchers in eastern Idaho are being warned about two incidents this month where bulls died after someone first tranquilized them and then removed their sexual organs. A rancher in Monteview, Idaho, reported the first dead bull on October 16th, and another bull was reported killed last Sunday at a ranch near Dubois, Idaho. Clark County Sheriff Craig King says both animals apparently died of shock, though neither was examined by a veterinarian.  King says he does not know the reason behind the mutilations, but suspects some type of ritual.

RESEARCHER: YELLOWSTONE BACTERIA COULD BOOST ETHANOL PRODUCTION - Scientists say a new bacteria species that has been discovered in Yellowstone National Park could someday play a role in the production of ethanol. Researchers discovered the bacteria in three of the park's hot springs. The water in the springs is very hot -- between 120 and 150 degrees, but like many bacteria found in Yellowstone, the newly discovered species thrives in such environments. Don Bryant is a professor of biotechnology, biochemistry and molecular biology at Penn State University, and he led the research team that discovered the Yellowstone bacteria.  He says one of the bacteria's characteristics is that it feeds off the waste of other bacteria, and he indicates that could enable other types of bacteria to thrive. While other researchers are looking into using bacteria to produce ethanol, Bryant says the Yellowstone bacteria could help speed up such a process.

FEDERAL WILDLIFE AGENT KILLS PREDATORY WOLF WEST OF KALISPELL - A federal wildlife agent killed a young male wolf west of Kalispell, Montana this week.  The animal was killed after the Hog Heaven Pack killed two domestic calves in the Brown's Meadow area, about 15 miles southwest of Kalispell. A wolf management specialist with the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks says control actions like the one Tuesday are taken to reduce the likelihood of further depredation. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is the lead agency for wolf conservation and management in that state, and the USDA Wildlife Services is a cooperating federal agency. It investigates injured and dead livestock to determine the cause, and removes wolves at the direction of the state agency.

Friday, October 26, 2007

DISTRICT 2 ANNOUNCES EARLY SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL RELEASE - Officials from Sheridan County School District 2 were forced to release students early today from Sheridan High School.  An electrical problem began at about 6:40 this morning, and for a time, classes were held utilizing a back-up generator.By 4th period, however, personnel determined that the learning environment was too compromised to continue effective instruction for the rest of the day.Food service was provided for those students who needed to wait at the school for their bus ride home.  Transportation service follows its regular schedule at 3:45.  Students have been able to stay at the high school in the mezzanine, in the library and other supervised areas.Montana-Dakota Utilities crews assisted the school all day, and spokesman Darrel Anderson tells us: . Anderson says that the faulty cable was attached to the school's main transformer underground, and Anderson describes how they were able to locate the problem: . Anderson anticipated that the problem should be fixed by day's end; he said that temporary cables were set up above ground.

GRASSROOTS GROUP WORKS TO GET CITY ADMINISTRATOR POSITION ON A PUBLIC BALLOT – WILL BE IN VARIOUS LOCATIONS WITH PETITIONS - The fledgling, Sheridan-based organization Taxpayer Advocates for Sheridan County, or TASC, will be at various locations around the area until November 30th, and spokesman George Carter, a Sheridan native who returned here just over a year ago, tells us why: . Carter is quick to note that TASC has no opinion either for or against the position of the City Administrator; rather, the grassroots group is focused on having the decision made by Sheridan's voters: .  George says that TASC is aiming for between 700 and 1000 signatures; already they have received approximately 250 “John Hancocks” in the last week or so. So if signing the petition is something you might consider, there are several opportunities, beginning with this afternoon between 3 and 5 at the Sheridan Post Office on Loucks and Gould Streets, as well as tomorrow afternoon between 10 and 1, also at the Post Office.  Other dates, George tells us: .  
Dates, times and locations October 26th, 3-5 pm, Sheridan Post Office:
October 27th, 10 am – 1 pm, Sheridan Post Office
November 8th, 10 am – 2 pm, North Main & Works Streets
November 15, 4 – 6 pm, Sheridan Fulmer Library Fulmer Room
November 20th, 12 – 3 pm, Sheridan City Hall

SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCES POWER ISSUES THIS MORNING - Sheridan High School had power issues early this morning, but school is operating as usual. MDU and others are checking why power was lost around 6:40 this morning. Back-up generators are running lights and phones, but currently Internet is unavailable. Sheridan Fire-Rescue have searched the building and deemed it safe after determining a motor had burned out in the facility's air circulation system.

WEATHER WILL TAKE A TURN FOR THE WORSE TODAY, BUT IT WILL BE SHORT LIVED - The past couple of days we've been spoiled with unseasonably warm temperatures in the region; however, over the next twenty-four hours, it'll feel more like winter instead of an Indian Summer. Meteorologist Albert Richmond with the National Weather Service in Billings explains what's going on: . Richmond explains how much of the white stuff we can expect to see accumulating: . The good thing, Albert says, is that this system should move out rather quickly: . Richmond said that there is a chance of some light snow early tomorrow morning but aside from that, the weekend weather outlook is pretty good, with highs anywhere from the lower 50's to lower 60's for both Saturday and Sunday.

NEED FOR ENERGY ASSISTANCE RISES WITH HEATING COSTS - The Low Income Energy Assistance Program provided money to a record number of Wyoming residents last year, and state officials say demand for the program appears to be strong already as we head toward the winter season.The application window-of-opportunity began October 1st for consumers who need heating assistance, and they have until February 28th of '08 to fill one out.  This year and last, 15-thousand assistance applications were printed, and not quite three weeks into the season this year, the state has had to print more than that, as the original batch ran out.With funding from the federal government, the Wyoming Department of Family Services will provide administration of the program. 

U.S. SENATOR JOHN BARRASSO INTRODUCES BILL TO PROTECT WYOMING  - Thursday was a busy day for U.S. Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming, who introduced legislation in Washington to restrict energy development in the Wyoming Range. Called the Wyoming Range Legacy Act of 2007, it will protect more than a million acres of the range along Wyoming's western border.  The bill would prohibit future oil and gas leasing, while allowing a process to buy back leases form current lease holders who are willing to sell. Barrasso has the backing of hunting, fishing and outfitting groups, who praised the legislation.

TONGUE RIVER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS BRING BOOKS TO BABIES - It was all about giving yesterday at Sheridan's Memorial Hospital, as the second grade classes from Tongue River Elementary School filed into the building in rows of two, carrying books wrapped in crayon-decorated construction paper, anxious to give them to the newborn babies in the nursery.  An annual project of the classes, the students had all worked together gathering money to buy these books from Sheridan Stationery so that newborn babies would have something to read when they get older.  The two classes raised $475.43 altogether.  “Nikki” and “Kirsten”, two of the second graders who were involved, told us how they raised the money for the books: . The kids were taken into the nursery and shown what happens with all the new babies that come into the hospital.  After that lesson, each child put their book on a table in a pile for the next 40 newborns to be born in the hospital.  Nikki explains how they all picked out their books: . All the kids had fun inside Sheridan Memorial Hospital, especially when they got to meet one of the babies who would get one of their books.  An added bonus of the afternoon -- along with the visit to the nursery, the 2nd graders got to see inside an ambulance, and Nikki even got to be strapped onto the gurney. Video of Tongue River 2nd Graders Donate Books to Nursery
   
HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FROM THE SHERIDAN FIRE DEPARTMENT - On Wednesday, we brought you tips from the Wyoming Poison Center regarding candy, dry ice, glow sticks and costume make-up on how to keep your kids safe this Halloween.  Today, we have some other safety tips from Brian Songer, Fire Marshall at the Sheridan Fire Department.Songer first tells us that we need to be careful with candles inside the carved-out pumpkins: . Songer says that a child's costume should fit well and not cover their eyes.  He advises that kids have flashlights with them, and that they wear some sort of reflective material: . Songer suggests that parents go with their kids to help keep them safer; it also provides fun for the whole family.  If you take your kids out in the car, or you're out driving that night, be cautious, he asks: . Another way to watch out for other kids is to make sure your path to your front door is clear, so that kids don't trip on anything when they come to the door.  

PREVIEW OF WEEKEND EVENTS - IT'S HALLOWEEN PARTY TIME AND MORE! - There are a few things going on in Sheridan this weekend as people of all ages celebrate Halloween 2007.  Reporter Kate Fetterly gives us a preview: . The Wasatch Gun Show is Fri 10/26/07 from 2pm - 7pm; Sat 10/27/07 from 9am – 5pm; Sun 10/28/07 from 9am - 3pm.  For more information, call (801) 466-7556.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

SIX DAYS AFTER IMPLEMENTING THE DEER MANAGEMENT PLAN, HOW'S IT GOING? - Six days after the Deer Management Plan went into effect, we checked with Sheridan Police Captain Scott Chandler to see how the response has been so far: . While we've had the plan posted on our website since last week, Scott tells us how the P.D. and Game & Fish collaborated on the plan: . Chandler stresses that the 21 zones fall within Hunt Area 24, so that those who want to participate still need to get a Game and Fish license, along with the Deer Management permit from the police department.  He explains further: . If hunters do not have the permit, they can be cited for trespassing, if they do not have the permit on their person, and they don't have permission from the landowner.  A reminder, the permits are free, and available at the Sheridan Police station. Deer Management Action Plan (PDF File)

10:30 AM SHERIDAN FIRE-RESCUE RESPONDS TO EARLY MORNING BLAZE - Around 12:30 this morning, Sheridan Fire-Rescue and Ranchester Volunteer Fire crews responded to a structure fire on Acme Road.  A vacant house that has been abandoned for some time was fully engulfed in fire when firefighters arrived, and while they were able to extinguish it, the structure was a total loss.  Investigators are looking for the cause, and Fire Marshall Brian Songer asks that anyone who was in the area of Acme Road north of Sheridan late last night or early this morning, and who may have witnessed anything that could help in the investigation, to please contact the Sheridan Fire Department.  Fire Marshall Songer:  (307) 751-8032

SHERIDAN POLICE INVOLVED IN HIGH-SPEED CHASE OVERNITE - Just after midnight last night, Sheridan Police Officer Howie Fitzpatrick and Officer John King initiated a traffic stop on a black Ford F-150 on Brundage Lane, in front of the Red Eagle convenience store.  It turned out not to be an ordinary stop, however, says Sheridan Police Sergeant Travis Koltiska: . Law enforcement pursued the truck eastbound until the Meade Creek Exit 33, where it turned westbound toward Highway 87.  The truck ran off the road near the tank farm on Highway 87, then proceeded northbound toward Sheridan.  Sgt. Koltiska continues: . Sgt. Kody Lamb and his K-9 partner, “Donnar” were called in, and after a short search, both occupants of the vehicle were located hiding in a storage shed behind a residence in the 700 block of Illinois Street and taken into custody without incident.  Sgt. Koltiska tells us: . 33-year old William Vincent's warrants were for Grand Theft and Bad Checks out of South Dakota, and Felony Larceny out of Campbell County.  Pierce is 41, and both suspects are recent residents of the City of Gillette.Assisting the Sheridan Police Department were members of the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office, the Wyoming Highway Patrol and the Sheridan College Police Department.

SUSPECTS ARRESTED IN CHADRON LAST WEEK HAVE CHARGES DROPPED - Reports from Chadron, Nebraska tell us that four of the five men arrested in Chadron October 11th as suspects in a multi-state crime spree, including armed robberies of three convenience stores and a South Dakota casino, will be extradited to Montana.  It is anticipated that the fifth suspect, who is a juvenile, will be returned to Montana as well, when legal paperwork has been completed.  His hearing has been set for October 31st. Yesterday in a Chadron court hearing, 19-year-old Jordan Lee Adams, 20-year-old Jacob Edward Kraus, 18-year-old Jeremy M. Adams and 21-year-old Camille James Adams, all waived extradition to Montana.  Jeremy Adams and Camille Adams, who are cousins, face charges in Montana for probation violation.  Jordan Adams, who is Jeremy's brother, and Jacob Kraus are wanted for felony escape charges. Dawes County Attorney Vance Haug indicated that it is not unusual in a case like this for the arresting jurisdiction to dismiss charges, so that more serious charges can be filed elsewhere.  He added that charges in Nebraska are relatively minor compared to those they are likely to face in Montana, Wyoming and South Dakota. In addition to the South Dakota casino robbery, the men are believed to be responsible for armed robberies of convenience stores in Butte and Columbus, Montana on October 9th, and of the Holiday Station South store in Sheridan on October 10th.  While the convenience store robberies didn't net the suspects much cash, reports are that the take from the casino was fairly large.

ARSON SUSPECT ARRESTED IN DISTRICT COURT TUESDAY - On January 30th of this year, an early-morning fire destroyed much of a house at 708 North Broadway.  The building, owned by Greg and Stacy Hunter, was undergoing a remodel, so was vacant at the time.  Information came later that day that the cause of the fire was arson. Fast-forward to this past Tuesday, when justice was served; the suspect of the crime, 30-year-old Andrew James Roderick, was arrested in Sheridan County District Court after he was sentenced to the Wyoming State Penitentiary.  Roderick had been released pending his hearing, and after receiving his sentence, Sheriff's deputies took him into custody.Roderick was sentenced to 3 to 5 years after pleading guilty to 3rd Degree Arson.  Five years is the maximum he could receive.  He had earlier been charged with 1st Degree Arson, but the lesser charge was the result of a plea agreement.  Roderick was also ordered to pay $22,000 dollars restitution to Greg and Stacy Hunter, and $2,000 dollars to the fire department for the cost of fighting the blaze.

CVC HOSTS CITY  ADMINISTRATOR PROFILING SESSION AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE - An open forum of discussion and brainstorming was held at the Sheridan College C-Tel last night to formulate a profile of the new City Administrator position in Sheridan. Reporter Kate Fetterly was there and has this story: .   Click here for Administrator Ordinance PDF file. Click here for City Administrator FAQ PDF file.     

SHERIDAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL BOARD OF TRUSTEES APPROVES FUNDING FOR SEVERAL KEY PROJECTS - The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees met for their regular monthly meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: .   

SHERIDAN COLLEGE SPEECH TEAM HEADS TO COLORADO FOR BIGGEST TOURNAMENT OF THE FALL - The award-winning Sheridan College Speech team is en route today to Colorado Springs, Colorado for the 63rd Annual James L. Johnson Invitational Forensic Tournament, their biggest competition of the Fall season.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has more: .

 HOSPICE VOLUNTEER TRAINING BEGINS IN NOVEMBER - If you have ever thought about becoming a volunteer for the Hospice of the Big Horns, they will be holding their annual volunteer training starting November 6th.  Volunteer Coordinator Cindy Baker explains what the training will consist of: . The training will be done over five evenings on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and make up about 16 hours total.  Volunteers who complete the training will also have continuing education throughout the year after they complete an interview process and become a hospice volunteer.  Some people are concerned about how much time they need to spend volunteering, and Baker says: . For more information about the training, or to set up a pre-training interview, call Cindy Baker: 672-1083 or 673-2886  

UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING TO HOLD SYMPOSIUM ON CLIMATE CHANGE NEXT WEEK - A group of University of Wyoming faculty members will be holding a seminar on November 1st dealing with the effects of, and possible solutions to, global warming. Anthropology Professor Sarah Strauss says the seminar will help to promote public awareness about global warming: .   That committee is working with the UW Research Office and the Office of the President to coordinate a campus-wide initiative on climate change.   Strauss said that hopes are to have more types of these meetings on campus in the future.

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Left to Right: College Board Chair Mike Nickel, Sheridan College President Dr. Kevin Drumm, & Whitney Board President Tom Kinnison with a $7.4 millon committment letter.

Outline of Money committed to the Campaign

WHITNEY BENEFITS COMMITS MILLIONS TOWARD WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SOLUTION AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE - The atmosphere at the C-Tel Presentation Hall at Sheridan College was electric this morning as faculty, staff, students, Community College Trustees, members of county and city government, businesses and the Whitney Board gathered for a special announcement on a Workforce Development Initiative.  Northern Community College Board Chair, Mike Nickel, gave the background: . Citing the comment of a local grocery store clerk making a plea for workers because she and her colleagues are working double shifts, an emotional Tom Kinnison said the Whitney Board did something unprecedented: . You heard him correctly – seven million dollars has been pledged to assist the Wyoming State Legislature in taking the first steps to build facilities on the Sheridan College campus to provide a trained and educated workforce.  College President, Kevin Drumm: . The other project will be a 150-bed, suite-style student housing unit. Of the 25-million dollar total price tag, the State Legislature will consider contributing 15.6 million, Whitney Benefits' commitment is 7.4 million, with a remaining 2.1 millions to be raised through a Capacity-Building project, under the direction of the Sheridan College Foundation.  Whitney Board member, Roy Garber, talks about that partnership: . To view the media conference, visit  www.sheridan.edu or watch Bresnan Channel 14 on regular cable T.V.

CAUSE OF TUESDAY'S APARTMENT FIRE DETERMINED - Word is in from the Sheridan Fire Department – the cause of yesterday's fire that occurred at 1166 South Sheridan Avenue, Unit D was determined to be caused by an electrical overload. Fire investigators noted that an extension cord that was used to supply a space heater overheated, igniting a couch in the living room of the home.  The fire spread to an end table and other combustible materials in the room.The person living there was asleep at the time of the fire, and woke up when the smoke detector went off.  The occupant attempted to put out the fire, but had to leave because the heat and smoke proved to be too intense.  That person was transported to Sheridan County Memorial Hospital shortly after the fire was extinguished – a name cannot be given at this time because of patient confidentiality laws.Sheridan Fire Rescue would like to use this incident as a reminder for residents to check smoke detectors at least monthly and to change the batteries at least once a year.  Free smoke detectors are available at the fire station.  They credit the working smoke detector in this fire to saving the resident's life.

SEEDA JOINT POWERS BOARD MET LAST NIGHT AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE - The Sheridan Economic and Educational Development Authority, or SEEDA Board, held their third meeting last night. The SEEDA Board addressed issues including setting additional Bylaws for the Joint Powers Board, and how they'll begin the process to select a site for their final objective, a child care center and adult training facility.  Sheridan Media's Kate Fetterly has this report: .          

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FROM THE WYOMING POISON CENTER - Halloween is here again, and there are numerous things parents can do to keep their kids safe each year as they go out trick-or-treating.  One reoccurring call to the Poison Center involves glow sticks.  Joan McVoy, Public Education Coordinator for the Wyoming Poison Center, explains why parents need to be careful with these luminous items: . McVoy also suggests that you gives kids a full meal before they go out so they aren't tempted to eat their candy before they get home.  She encourages parents to inspect the candy once they come home, especially homemade treats: . McVoy adds that dry ice in punch bowls is not dangerous unless the ice is swallowed in its solid form, which can damage the throat or mouth.  She also advises that parents use non-toxic face paint, and to make sure that it's washed off as soon as the kids get home, in order to avoid an allergic reaction.  We will have more about keeping kids safe while they are out trick-or-treating later this week .

PROJECT YOUTH INTRODUCES NEW EMPLOYEE - Project Youth has welcomed a new gal to town – her name is Melissa Mowry, and she came to Sheridan from Pinedale, Wyoming.  Melissa describes her role with the organization: .Mowry has a degree in Sociology and is currently working on her Masters Degree. Project Youth has developed several after school opportunities for Sheridan County students, and Melissa outlines some of them: . Mowry's husband, Jeff, is a math teacher at Sheridan High School.

JASON DORSEY SPEECH OFFERED ADVICE FOR EMPLOYERS - Nearly 100 Sheridan community employers attended a speech given  by a motivated young man at the Sheridan College C Tel on Tuesday morning.  Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: .   

WYOMING HAY NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH ONLINE LIST - What used to have an old 1-800 number and web address has “moved” to a new online location.  The Wyoming Hay Hotline, which has existed for nearly fifteen years at the former contact info has now been simplified to www.wyohaylist.com.  The web site is a partnership between the Wyoming Business Council's Agribusiness Division and the University of Wyoming's College of Agriculture.It offers listings for Wyoming producers who are trying to sell hay, as well as buyers requesting hay and trucking companies available to haul the product.Scott Keith is the Council's Livestock and Forage Program Manager, and he says: . Keith says the sellers can promote their hay without having to pay for advertising or worrying about minimum amounts of product.  The online form offers fields to classify the hay; it also offers forage analysis information and comments on the quality of the hay. To learn the particulars of how the new website works, visit www.wyohaylist.com ; Email Scott Keith:  scott.keith@wybusiness.org ; Call Kathy Parsons (307) 754-2223 www.wyomingbusiness.org .

NEXT IN FACULTY LECTURE SERIES AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE TO BE HELD TOMORROW EVENING - The latest in Sheridan College's Faculty Lecture Series will be tomorrow night and will focus on the history of the Klu Klux Klan and  its place is in U.S. history. Sheridan College English Instructor, John Sutton, will present “Lifting the Hoods off of Our Grandfathers: A New Way to Present History, or a Cheap Shot?” Sutton explains that the reason he became so enthralled with the history of the Klan in the 1920's is a personal one: . One of the main issues Sutton will discuss is how the Klan has been ignored in American History: . Sutton is a recipient of the 2008 creative writing fellowship in creative nonfiction from the Wyoming Arts Council. His winning manuscript is “Writing Floyd”, which is an excerpt from his upcoming book Becoming White: A Family's Journey from Slavery to Klu Klux Klan. Tomorrow night's Sheridan College Faculty Lecture is free and open to the public and will take place at the CTEL Presentation Hall at 7 pm.

WE HAVE AN UPDATE ON HOW THINGS ARE GOING FOR THE SHERIDAN DOG AND CAT SHELTER PET CALENDER CONTEST - Voting for the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter Pet Calender contest    will wrap up a week from today. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: . For more information, visit  http://www.dogandcatshelter.org/ . Petoween! October 27: Click here for information (PDF).

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

POACHING ON KROE LANE LEAVES ONE DEER DEAD AND ONE MAN ANGRY WITH CITY ORDINANCE - One Sheridan man was left shocked this weekend when he found a poached deer on his hunting property on our very own KROE Lane in Sheridan. Kate Fetterly has the story: .  

HOUSE FIRE ON SOUTH SHERIDAN AVENUE THIS MORNING AS FOLKS HEAD TO WORK, SCHOOL - The Sheridan Fire-rescue department responded to a house fire at 1166 South Sheridan Avenue, Unit D this morning at 7:40 a.m. The occupant discovered a fire in the living room and evacuated the home.Fire crews used 1 3/4 inch handlines to extinguish the fire and then used hi-volume fans to disperse the heat and smoke from the home. The occupant was transported to Sheridan County Memorial Hospital. Her condition is not known at this time. A portion of Sheridan Avenue was closed down for a short time this morning as fire crews were extinguishing the fire. A supply line from a fire hydrant to the Fire Engine was extended across Sheridan Ave, just south of Coffeen School. Parents bringing their kids to school were forced to take alternative routes.The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.  More information will be released as it becomes available.

MONTANA-DAKOTA UTILITIES RELEASES INFORMATION ABOUT POWER OUTAGE VANDALISM - The power outage on Saturday in Sheridan County that affected thousands of Montana Dakota Utilities customers has been confirmed to be caused by vandalism. MDU Spokesperson Mark Hanson gives us the details: . Hanson said that the main reason for power being off most of the day for some was that crews had to restore power in shifts due to the power load of bringing that many customers back on line. So, have there been any leads in the case? . The vandalism to the MDU transmission line occurred southeast of Sheridan on Kruse Creek Road and the outage affected residents in Big Horn, Story, Banner and Sheridan.

ANOTHER PLANNED WATER SHUT-OFF SCHEDULED FOR TODAY - Potable water service will be unavailable today between 8 am until 5 pm for a portion of Sheridan County.  The City of Sheridan will be installing new booster pumps at the Beaver Creek station, and City Engineer Mike Cole asks that residents plan accordingly by filling containers and utilizing the water prior to the shutoff.The homes affected are on Beaver Creek Road, Beaver Drive, Moonlight Drive, Wild Turkey, Fox Den, and Sharptailed Road.  If you have any questions, please contact either Jay Stender at SAWS or Mike Cole at the City of Sheridan. Jay Stender/SAWS:  (307) 675-5280, Mike Cole / City:  (307) 674-6483.

CITY PLANNING COMMISSION LOOKS AT SUBDIVISIONS AND ZONING - The City of Sheridan Planning Commission met last night and heard several presentations for new Subdivisions and rezones in the city, as well as reassigning the Vice president seat to Wayne Blank.  Kate Fetterly has this Report: . 

CITY COUNCIL HEARD PROJECT UPDATES, MET NEW STAFF, AT WORK SESSION - The Sheridan City Council heard an updated capital project and work in progress report presentation from the Sheridan Public Works department at Monday's work session.  Kate Fetterly has this report: .

PEPPERDINE STUDENT WITH LOCAL TIES TALKS ABOUT WILDFIRE EXPERIENCE - Wildfires are consuming hundreds of thousands of acres in southern California, for a time affecting activities at Pepperdine University in Malibu.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has a personal connection with a student, and brings us this first-hand account: .  

WYOMING BRANCH OF HOMELAND SECURITY UNVEILS WEB EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER - Sheridan Area first responders received training on a new system of emergency response yesterday at Sheridan City Hall. Jacob Sones of the the Wyoming  Office of Homeland Security offered training on the Web Emergency Operations Center, or WebEOC. The WebEOC program is all internet based, requiring no hardware for users. It's essentially a big virtual blackboard that offers real-time emergency information management for multiple agencies, including the FBI, National Guard, and local police and fire. The WebEOC system tracks weather, uses maps, and shows the details of ongoing operations in other cities during an emergency situation. The information is offered in real-time, using chat rooms, visual displays and task checklists to more effectively manage emergency situations.The WebEOC program is funded with tax dollars under the Office of Homeland Security, and is another resource available to first responders acting in a major emergency situation.

SHERIDAN COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY HIGHLIGHTS THE LIFE OF DON KING - This Thursday, the Sheridan County Historical Society will be holding a dinner program at the Holiday Inn in the Geneva Room starting at 6 pm, and there will be a free program afterwards at around 6:40 pm.  The program, entitled “Don King: One Cowboy's Story” will include a new 17-minute DVD of King's life made by Dana Wyatt, a teacher at Sheridan Junior High School, and original music by Dave Munsick, a teacher at Tongue River High School.  There will also be another segment of Don King receiving an award, as Vice President of the Historical Society Mary Ellen McWilliams tells us: . Danny Morales will demonstrate the art of rope making, and Jean King will have an exhibit of artifacts and photos from the Don King Western Museum.  If you want to attend the dinner, the Historical Society stresses that reservations need to be made by noon today.  The dinner is $15 a plate including tax and tip, and reservations for the dinner are required so that the Holiday Inn knows how many are expected to eat.  To make reservations, call Linda or Karen at Prill Bros: 674-4436.  The program after the dinner is free and doesn't require a reservation.

SCIENCE MUSEUM LECTURE SERIES CONTINUES WITH PRESENTATION TOMORROW - Tomorrow at Sheridan College, the Science Museum Lecture Series will continue with a lecture by Jeb Taylor entitled, “Projectile Points on the High Plains.”  This lecture will last about an hour, and will consist of a Powerpoint presentation covering the types of projectile points used by Native Americans living on the High Plains over the last 11,300 years.  Former geology professor Mike Flynn tells us that Taylor will do something extra after his lecture: . Taylor appreciates audience participation in his presentations and encourages questions throughout the lecture.  This lecture is free and light refreshments are served afterwards. There will be two more lectures after Taylor's, including one on “Raptors of Wyoming” on November 14th and “The Outback of Central Asia” on December 5th.  All lectures are in the Mohn's  Center at the College at 7pm.  To learn more about the Science Lecture Series, call Ardath Lunbeck: 674-6446, ext. 3108

WYOMING STATE PARKS TO HOLD A SERIES OF MEETINGS AROUND THE STATE ON PROPOSED RULE CHANGES - The Wyoming Division of State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails has announced a series of informative public meetings concerning proposed rules changes. Parks Field Supervisor Bill Westerfield explains the format of the meetings: . Westerfield says that public concern is what prompted these meetings: . Westerfield said that the public will be given an opportunity to provide comments during the meetings. There will be meetings this week in Wheatland, Casper and Gillette, with more to follow in November. For information on the rules changes and a schedule of the public meetings, visit  www.wyoparks.org .

Monday, October 22, 2007

ANOTHER PLANNED WATER SHUT-OFF SCHEDULED FOR TODAY - Potable water service will be unavailable today between 8 am until 5 pm.  The City of Sheridan will be installing new booster pumps at the Beaver Creek station, and City Engineer Mike Cole asks that residents plan accordingly by filling containers and utilizing the water prior to the shutoff.The homes affected are on Beaver Creek Road, Beaver Drive, Moonlight Drive, Wild Turkey, Fox Den, and Sharptailed Road.  If you have any questions, please contact either Jay Stender at SAWS or Mike Cole at the City of Sheridan: Jay Stender/SAWS:  (307) 675-5280. Mike Cole / City:  (307) 674-6483

FLU SHOT CLINICS TO BE HELD TODAY AND THE FOLLOWING TWO MONDAYS AT SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMUNITY HEALTH - Sheridan County Community Health Services has announced the schedule for their drop in flu clinics. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: . For more information, call 672-5169.

WYO THEATER GALA WAS A MAJOR SUCCESS TO FUND SEASON - Over 260 Sheridan area theater supporters turned out at the WYO Theater for the 2007 Swingtime Canteen Gala on Saturday night. Sheridan Media's Kate Fetterly has the story:   .

LAWMAKERS MAY REVIEW FREUDENTHAL'S PROPERTY TAX PROPOSAL - A legislative committee may hold hearings on Governor Dave Freudenthal's proposal to give property tax relief to longtime state residents over the age of 65. The governor wrote to lawmakers last week suggesting that they allow voters in the Fall of 2008 to decide whether they want to change the State Constitution to allow the property tax cut. His proposal would allow a 50-percent property tax cut for residents 65 or older who have lived in their homes for at least ten years. It would be limited to $200,000 of fair market value. The governor's office projects the average savings would amount to about $630 a year.  Estimates are that the total cost of the property tax cut would be about $18 million a year. The governor proposes that the state government pay local governments to cover the cost of the program. The Legislature's Management Council on Friday authorized the Joint Revenue Interim Committee to hold up to three days of hearings on Freudenthal's proposal and on other tax-cut proposals before the legislative session starts early next year.

POWELL DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKER SET FOR NEW WYOMING PROJECT - A Wyoming filmmaker is setting out to do a documentary about the life of Tim McCoy, a star of Hollywood westerns in the 1920s and 1930s. Filmmaker Mary Ellen Lee says the life story of McCoy is rich in the history of the American West.  in addition to his silver-screen career, McCoy was a Wyoming cowboy and rancher.  He was known as a friend to American Indians and the Adjutant General of the State of Wyoming. An interesting bit of film trivia -- in the 1932 film, "Two-Fisted Law," McCoy had the starring role, while John Wayne was a supporting actor. Lee says she hopes her documentary on McCoy will depict the legacy of massive Wyoming ranches.  She says she wants to show the cowboys and American Indians who became Hollywood legends, as well as the lives of cowboys on the range. Lee produced a documentary last year about singing cowboy Roy Barnes.

HUNTERS – YOU WON'T HAVE TO TRAVEL OUTSIDE OF CITY LIMITS TO GET YOUR DEER! - On October 1st, the Sheridan City Council passed and adopted a resolution making it legal for bow hunters to hunt deer within some areas of Sheridan's city limits.  The Sheridan Police Department has issued a Deer Management Action Plan which outlines a joint monitoring effort of the implementation and effectiveness of the plan by the City of Sheridan and Wyoming Game and Fish.Among some of the management points, hunting will be in accordance with all Wyoming Game and Fish laws and regulations, and managed with safety as a primary consideration.  Hunting will be restricted solely to the use of archery equipment as defined by the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission Big Game Regulations.Only open space property owners approved by the City of Sheridan may allow hunting on their properties.  If a property owner wishes to be included in the program, they must present their case to the Sheridan Police Department and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department for determination.The Deer Management Action Plan goes into effect immediately.  Hunters will have to have the proper license for the species and areas as set by the Wyoming Game & Fish. Permits and permission slips are not licenses to hunt. They are only permission to hunt in the city limits. Everyone must have one; they are free and available at the Sheridan police station.Click here for Deer Management Action Plan (pdf).

ARCH COAL FOUNDATION RECOGNIZES EXCEPTIONAL WYOMING TEACHERS - The Arch Coal Foundation has announced that, for the 8th consecutive year, they will recognize ten of the top Wyoming educators.  Arch Coal Vice President of External Affairs, Greg Schaefer tells us why the Arch Coal Awards are unique: . The nominated teachers complete an extensive application form that examines their teaching philosophy, classroom proficiency, and their community service. The ten teachers are then picked by a blue ribbon panel in April, which is often other teachers who are previous recipients of the award.  The ten teachers who are selected after all the nominations are received will get a personal check for $2,500 from the Arch Coal Foundation in May.  They receive the checks at an awards ceremony that is usually held in Cheyenne.  Schaefer wants everyone to take part in these awards, and tells us where to go to fill out a nomination form: . The deadline to submit nominations is January 11th, 2008; and while the teachers will have a few more weeks to complete their applications, the sooner a teacher is nominated, the longer they have to complete their applications.

UPDATE: POWER OUTAGE AFFECTED SEVERAL AREAS IN SHERIDAN COUNTY SATURDAY – MDU OFFICIALS ATTRIBUTE CAUSE TO VANDALISM - Montana Dakota Utilities customers in the Sheridan area endured a widespread power outage Saturday and MDU officials are attributing the cause to vandalism, and will be issuing a statement later today. MDU customers lost power from about 10 in the morning until about 4 Saturday afternoon. The outage affected Big Horn, Story, Banner, and the City of Sheridan. Reports at the MDU call center said that the lights flickered several times in the beginning of the outage, continuing until power finally went off. An MDU spokesman said the situation is still under investigation.

Sunday, October 21, 2007

SHERIDAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL UPGRADES CT SCANNER - Sheridan Memorial Hospital has welcomed a new member to its hard-working staff, but it's not human.  Chris Bilyeau is the Medical Imaging Manager with the hospital's Radiology Department and explains: . A CAT Scan does spiral x-rays, so the technicians can get a 360-degree view inside a patient's body.  By adding more slices, it decreases the amount of time it takes to diagnose a problem, especially in cardiac patients.  Chris describes some other reasons a person would have a CAT scan: . Chris says that a 64-slice scanner is the best available in the common health care market today.

WYOMING WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL MEETINGS SET - The Wyoming Workforce Development Council has released the schedule for the 2008 meeting dates.  Meeting four times next year, they will be in Cheyenne in February, Laramie in May, Sheridan in September, and Casper in November. Jeremiah Rieman, Policy Analyst for the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, says:.

Thursday, February 14th, 1 – 5 pm in Cheyenne, WY
Friday, February 15th, 8am – noon in Cheyenne, WY
Tuesday, May 27th, 8 am – 5 pm in Laramie, WY
Thursday, September 18th, 1 – 5 pm, in Sheridan, WY
Friday, September 19th, 8 am – noon, in Sheridan, WY
Thursday, November 13th, 1 – 5 pm, Casper, WY
Friday, November 14th, 8 am – noon, Casper, WY
www.wyowdc.org

GOVERNOR ON WHY FOREST PLANNING IS SO IMPORTANT TO WYOMING - Noting that national forest management planning plays a significant role in state affairs and local economies, Governor Dave Freudenthal commended the U.S. Forest Service for a proposed rule that considers those issues. The Governor, however, expressed concern that some aspects of the proposal may reduce certainty, hinder the planning process and lead to “analysis paralysis.” Freudenthal reiterated the need for continued multiple forest activities and planning based on the unique characteristics of each forest along with local knowledge and input. The Governor, while generally supporting the proposed management planning rule, expressed concern that the proposal may not streamline some aspects of the planning process “largely because project-level requirements may require a more detailed ‘cumulative effects’ analysis under the National Environmental Policy Act than with the 1982 National Forest Management Act planning regulations.” Freudenthal urged the Forest Service to commit to a balanced approach in forest planning, one that protects the beauty and health of national forests, ensures recreational opportunities, allows for flexible management and rebuilds trust with local communities by reflecting local concerns.

MEN'S MARCH AGAINST FAMILY VIOLENCE - Sheridan area men symbolized their intolerance of domestic abuse Saturday morning at the the first ever Men's March Against Family Violence. The Advocacy and Resource Center was at the heart of the cause, leading more than 30 men from many backgrounds in a march down Main street to Grinnell Plaza in Sheridan. The crowd of men who rallied against family violence included government officials, Sheridan College students and staff, a well as law enforcement officials. Matthew Mcneil participated in the march, and talks about why the community needs to get involved and be aware of family violence: . Matthew McNeil works for the Volunteers of America at their Juvenile holding facility, is a football announcer, and he's a Sheridan College student working toward a Criminal Justice degree. Assistant Director for the Advocacy and Resource Council, Bonnie Young, talked about what went on at the March yesterday: . Young said she hopes to continue the awareness campaign into next year, creating a People's March against Family Violence to include women and children. The Advocacy and Resource Council offers programs which provide assistance to victims of violent crimes, specializing in domestic violence and sexual assault.

POWER OUTAGE AFFECTED SEVERAL CITIES YESTERDAY - Montana Dakota Utilities customers in the Sheridan area suffered a widespread power outage yesterday due to an act of vandalism. MDU customers lost power from about 10 in the morning until about 4 in the afternoon. The outage affected Big Horn, Story, Banner, and the City of Sheridan. Reports at the MDU call center said that the lights flickered several times in the beginning of the outage, and that they continued to flicker until power finally went off until Saturday afternoon.  An MDU spokesman said the cause is still under investigation.

Saturday, October 20, 2007

HUNTERS – YOU WON'T HAVE TO TRAVEL OUTSIDE OF CITY LIMITS TO GET YOUR DEER! - On October 1st, the Sheridan City Council passed and adopted a resolution making it legal for bow hunters to hunt deer within some areas of Sheridan's city limits.  Last night, we received a Deer Management Action Plan from Captain Scott Chandler of the Sheridan Police Department which outlines a joint monitoring effort of the implementation and effectiveness of the plan by the City of Sheridan and Wyoming Game and Fish. Among some of the management points, hunting will be in accordance with all Wyoming Game and Fish laws and regulations, and managed with safety as a primary consideration.  Hunting will be restricted solely to the use of archery equipment as defined by the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission Big Game Regulations. Only open space property owners approved by the City of Sheridan may allow hunting on their properties.  If a property owner wishes to be included in the program, they must present their case to the Sheridan police Department and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department for determination. The Deer Management Action Plan goes into effect immediately.  Hunters will have to have the proper license for the species and area as set by the Wyoming Game & Fish. Permits and permission slips are not licenses to hunt. They are only permission to hunt in the city limits. Every one must have one, and they are free. Archery Area (pdf). Deer Management Action Plan (pdf).

ROBBERY SUSPECTS CHARGED IN NEBRASKA - The five suspects captured after the State Line Casino in South Dakota was robbed, and believed to be connected to robberies in Montana and at Sheridan's Holiday Station South, have been charged in Dawes County, Nebraska. All the men, who are from Montana, are charged with conspiracy to receive, retain or dispose of stolen property; operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest; and obstructing a peace officer. The Dawes County attorney's office said more charges may be filed, and the men likely face charges in other states. The Montana Department of Corrections says two of the men walked away from a pre-release center in Helena October 8th.  The group was captured October 11th after a 14-hour manhunt closed down businesses and schools in Chadron, Nebraska.

SHERIDAN COMPANY TO BE FEATURED ON “EXTREME HOME MAKEOVER” TOMORROW NIGHT - A call into KROE's Open Line Friday yesterday morning alerted us of the broadcast of “Extreme Home Makeover” which has an episode airing tomorrow night and featuring Sheridan business, Closet Tailors. Ray Pacheco is owner of the company and he told us about the experience: . Ray explains how it was his company came to be chosen to take part: . The home that will be featured is in Billings, Montana, but unfortunately, Ray says, he and his crew were unable to meet the family or be there for the big “reveal” of the made-over home. Ray wasn't certain of what time it will air – regular cable and satellite broadcasts will be different, so be sure to check your local listings for “Extreme Home Makeover”, on ABC, featuring Sheridan's Closet Tailors.

SENATOR MIKE ENZI COMMENTS ON S-CHIP VETO - Earlier this week, President Bush vetoed the S-CHIP bill, and Senator Mike Enzi had this to say in support of the veto: . Enzi says that he has co-sponsored a bill that can bridge the gap between supporters of the bill and the President signing his name to it.  Long admired for his non-partisan stance on most issues, Enzi says that if they can “hang up the gloves and suspend the politicking, even briefly, they can reach an agreement the President can sign.  He talks about one of the main sticking points: . Enzi stresses that poor children must have health insurance, and if they can reach a compromise on the bill that focuses on needy children under the age of 19 having access to health insurance.

HYPE BARN DANCE ORIGINALLY PLANNED FOR THIS AFTERNOON HAS BEEN POSTPONED - Earlier this week, we reported that the HYPE group – or Helping Young Professionals Engage – was going to be hosting a barn dance in Ucross this afternoon.  Unfortunately, says HYPE spokesperson Jaime Lewis: . There are currently about sixty people on HYPE's contact list, and the fledgling organization, which is run through Forward Sheridan, is still going through a learning curve as to how to get more people, well, engaged. So does HYPE have the spring date set yet for the postponed dance?. We will post contact information for those of you who feel HYPE would be a fun organization in which to get involved – For more information contact jaime@forwardsheridan.com or 673-8004

Friday, October 19, 2007

CITY OF SHERIDAN BEGINS PROCESS OF RECYCLING PROGRAM - Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey and Recycling Manager Charles Martineau held an informational meeting Thursday afternoon with the media to get the word out about what residents can or cannot be recycled. Bins are set up and categorized as follows:  green waste – which, as you know, are in green bins; the bins for the other recyclable products are blue and will individually contain broken-down corrugated cardboard; plastic milk jugs; aluminum cans; hard metal cans; mixed paper; and glass – and no matter the color of it, if a glass crusher can be purchased to crush the glass down for roadbed work.Note, milk cartons or other waxed boxes cannot be recycled.  Food-contaminated paper, like paper plates and pizza boxes also cannot be recycled.  All cans must be rinsed or washed out thoroughly, with all labels removed.Oil at a five-gallon limit is already recycled at the landfill.Hazardous materials include any household chemicals, and containers of those cannot be recycled.Martineau said the containers will be together at the sites, providing an incentive for the public to recycle: . If everything goes as planned, Martineau says the program could be up and running in about two months.We will have more on the development of the program in the coming days.

ROBBERY SUSPECTS CHARGED IN NEBRASKA - The five suspects captured after the State Line Casino in South Dakota was robbed, and believed to be connected to robberies in Montana and at Sheridan's Holiday Station South, have been charged in Dawes County, Nebraska.  All the men, who are from Montana, are charged with conspiracy to receive, retain or dispose of stolen property; operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest; and obstructing a peace officer.The Dawes County attorney's office said more charges may be filed, and the men likely face charges in other states.The Montana Department of Corrections says two of the men walked away from a prerelease center in Helena October 8th.  The group was captured October 11th after a 14-hour manhunt closed down businesses and schools in Chadron, Nebraska.

CENTER FOR A VITAL COMMUNITY SEEKING PUBLIC INPUT ON IDEAL QUALITIES OF CITY ADMINISTRATOR CANDIDATE - In an effort to continue to have the community take part in the hiring process of the new City Administrator position, the Center for a Vital Community, in partnership with Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey and the Sheridan City Council, is hosting a Profiling meeting next week.  CVC Director Jenny Craft explains: . She outlines the itinerary and goals of the gathering: . While they won't be serving dinner, Jenny says they'll have h'ors d'oevres, soda and water available while those in attendance brainstorm.  As for the key points on which they would like feedback? . This event is open to the public and there is no need to RSVP – just arrive at the Sheridan College C-Tel Presentation Hall by 6:30 pm on Wednesday, October 24th.

SHERIDAN COUNTY FAIR BOARD DISCUSSES GOLD BUCKLE CLUB GRANDSTANDS AND EYES THE POSSIBILITY OF HIRING A CPA FOR QUARTERLY REVIEWS - The Sheridan County Fair Association Board of Trustees met for their monthly meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has this report: .  

SHERIDAN COLLEGE BOARD TAKES A TRIP TO TOUR THE GILLETTE CAMPUS PRIOR TO THEIR MEETING LAST NIGHT - The Northern Wyoming Community College District Board of Trustees held their meeting in Gillette yesterday. The board toured the Gillette Campus and got a first-hand look at the progress of several key construction projects that are going on. As far as the meeting itself, the main agenda item was the report on the A-QUIP systems portfolio. A-QUIP stands for the Academic Quality Improvement Program and college spokesman Ryan Ragan describes what it's all about: . Ragan says that the college is breaking new ground when it comes to A-QUIP: . It was also announced that the board will be having an executive session at 10 am Sunday to conduct evaluations of the college President and the board members.

ONE SOLDIER'S THOUGHTS ON IRAQ - On October 3rd, 146 members of the 10-41st Engineer Company of the Wyoming National Guard returned from a twelve-month tour of duty in Iraq, coming into the state at Rock Springs.  Six of them were from the Sheridan area, and one of them was Sgt. Jon Smith.Smith served as a combat medic with his unit, which was based just outside of Tikrit.  He also provided convoy security, and he talks about one eventful experience: . Smith credits the leadership of his unit for the success of their mission – all of the 146 troops returned, many with several service awards.  Among those that Smith earned, he was awarded a Bronze Star for his work as a medic and getting supplies for his medics.  He gives credit for his medal to that group, downplaying his duties. Now that he's back to his wife and children, how does he feel about his experience in Iraq? . Smith and the other Guard members will be honored on Veterans Daywe'll have more about that in the coming days.

WYOMING ARTS COUNCIL CELEBRATES FORTY YEARS AT THIS WEEKEND'S ARTS SUMMIT - During the Wyoming Arts Summit this weekend in Casper the Wyoming Arts Council will be celebrating their 40th anniversary. In 1967 the Arts Council began with a plan drawn up by then First Lady Bobby Hathaway, with support from Governor Stan Hathaway and  many supporters in the Wyoming State House and Senate. Arts Council Manager, Rita Basom (bay-sum), says the beginnings may have been meager, but today's Wyoming Arts Council would have made Bobby Hathaway proud: . Basom said that Governor Dave and First Lady Nancy Freudenthal, along with Senator Mike Enzi, will be on hand this weekend to attend the summit and to celebrate the council's milestone.

BIRDING PRESENTATION AT LANDON'S GREENHOUSE TOMORROW - There will be a free presentation at Landon's Greenhouse tomorrow morning about birding and how to feed birds in the wintertime.  Deck Hunter will be giving the presentation, and will talk about everything from feeding and watering birds in the winter, as well as how to deal with nuisance animals, and how to build a backyard habitat.  Hunter tells us why these backyard habitats are important: . Many of us don't think about feeding the birds right now, but once winter comes, Hunter explains why people need to put out some seed: .She will also discuss why having trees is essential if you want birds to come into your backyard.  Hunter has been a birdwatcher all her life, and has gained her expertise from many places: . The presentation is free to the public, and everyone is encouraged to come.  The workshop will take place at Landon's Greenhouse tomorrow morning starting at 10.  Pre-registration is requested.  To sign up for the workshop, call Landon's Greenhouse: 672-8340.

SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL R.O.C.K. STUDENTS HANDING OUT RED RIBBONS NEXT WEEK - If you see a lot of people sporting red ribbons on their shirts next week, it's because they will be observing Red Ribbon Week.  Now various ribbon colors symbolize different things – AIDS Awareness, Breast Cancer Awareness being two that come to mind – but in this case, it's all about Drug Prevention, says R.O.C.K. member and SHS senior, Kelsi Kreuger: . Red Ribbon Week is the oldest and most widespread drug prevention campaign in the United States.  It began in honor of the efforts of a Drug Enforcement Administration Officer killed during the investigation of international drug traffickers in 1985.  While this is a national campaign, the local participation was Kelsi's idea. Red Ribbon Week runs from Monday, October 23rd through Halloween, and the ribbons will be distributed to all students during their 3rd period classes at Sheridan High School.  Businesses are encouraged to call the high school to have a R.O.C.K. member bring them the ribbons to give out to their customers.   Sheridan High School – Counselor Carol Garber:  672-2495.

SPECIAL MEETING TO BE HELD BETWEEN SHERIDAN SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 BOARD AND LOCAL LEGISLATORS - The Sheridan County School District 2 Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting with local legislators this coming Monday, October 22nd.  The meeting will begin at 6 pm in the Administration office at 201 North Connor Street, at the end of Grinnell Plaza in Sheridan. The business meeting will cover topics of interest to both parties, and is open to the public.

Thursday, October 18, 2007

SHERIDAN V.A. MEDICAL CENTER TO HOLD FLU SHOT CLINIC - Next week, the Sheridan V.A. Medical Center will be conducting a two-day flu shot clinic for veterans, V.A. patients, V.A. employees, and those who volunteer at the V.A.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has more: .   

CLEARMONT AND KAYCEE VETERANS TO HAVE ACCESS TO BENEFIT COORDINATOR - Starting this Friday, Clearmont and Kaycee veterans will have access to a benefit coordinator every third Friday of every month.  Lisa Griffith is the Veterans' Benefit Coordinator for Johnson and Sheridan Counties, and she explains some of the things she does for veterans: . Griffith has not worked with the Clearmont and Kaycee areas before, but she now has the what she needs to help out veterans in those areas.  She gives the times that she will be in both areas: . Griffith is in the Sheridan V.A. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for veterans in the Sheridan area.  For anyone who has questions for Lisa Griffith, call (307) 620-0884.

FIRST EVER MEN'S MARCH AGAINST FAMILY VIOLENCE TO BE HELD SATURDAY MORNING  - The Sheridan Advocacy and Resource Center is hosting a march in downtown Sheridan Saturday morning. Men from throughout the community will demonstrate their intolerance of violence in families by marching down Main Street.  Advocacy & Resource Center Assistant Director, Bonnie Young, talks about why the men will be marching this weekend: . There will be a few professionals from around Sheridan at the march, including teachers from Sheridan College. Young says that abuse is not always started by men. . If you're unfamiliar with the Advocacy & Resource Center, Young describes their service: . Men interested in marching against family violence can meet Saturday morning at the Advocacy & Resource Center at 8:30 am. You'll see the men marching down Main Street starting at 9 am. This is the first ever Men’s March Against Family Violence in Sheridan.  For more information, contact:  Advocacy & Resource Center at 672-7471.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE EMPLOYEE RECEIVES REGIONAL AND NATIONAL AWARD &