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DECEMBER 2007 NEWS ARCHIVE

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Monday, December 31, 2007

Water Main Leak

CITY OF SHERIDAN REPAIRS WATER MAIN LEAK - The City of Sheridan responded to a water main leak this morning at the intersection of Absaraka St and Martin Avenue this morning. Reporter Kate Fetterly was on the scene and talked with Water Distribution supervisor Ken Hirschman about what happened: Audio.

SHERIDAN POLICE RESPOND TO ACTIONS TAKEN ON DEC 20TH, THE DATE OF JUROR'S ARRESTS FOR FAILURE TO APPEAR IN MUNICIPAL COURT - Earlier this month, four Sheridan Residents were arrested for failing to respond to their call for Jury duty at Sheridan Municipal Court, located adjacent to the Sheridan Police Department. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details of the events that day: Audio.

SHERIDAN'S MAYOR RESPONDS TO ACTIONS TAKEN BY SHERIDAN PD IN JUROR'S ARRESTS  - Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey took a moment to reflect on the events of December 20th. That date, four Sheridan residents were handcuffed and arrested in front of family, friends and children for failure to appear for Jury Duty in Sheridan Municipal Court. The Jurors were given citations to appear before Judge Stu Healy two weeks prior to the December 20th Jury Trial date. Some of the Jurors claimed that they forgot to return phone calls, and the next thing they knew, they were arrested. Mayor Kinskey: Audio . Sheridan Police Chief Mike Card was out of the office when we tried to reach him for comment on Friday, but you can be sure we'll get his response to the situation as well as to provide continuing coverage on Police Events.

ADVICE FROM THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE THIS NEW YEAR'S IS TO HAVE FUN BUT BE SAFE AND SMART WHILE DOING SO - We know that the Sheridan Police Department plans on having extra patrol for this evening to try and deter people from partying too hard for New Year's, but what does the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office have planned for tonight? Audio .

SALSA FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT PROJECT SCHOOLHOUSE - Coming up on March 31st of 2008 at 7 pm, there will be a Salsa Fundraiser held at the Elk's Ballroom in Sheridan to benefit Project Schoolhouse, a non-profit organization that is currently building schoolhouses in Nicaragua.  Tab Barker, the founder of Project Schoolhouse, explains why he thinks the event and the project are unique: Audio . There will be a silent auction and food available, along with the band “The Fireants” opening followed by the salsa orchestra “The Ritmo 3” from 8 to 11 pm.  Barker is not sure what will be in the auction yet, but he says the items should be similar to last years, and he lists what some of those items were: Audio . With the money the Project raised during the last event, they paid for a third of the funding for an elementary school finished in July 2007.  Barker details how the money is used: Audio . This fundraiser's proceeds will go toward another elementary school in Nicaragua that begins construction in early March of 2008.  If you would like more information on the event, or would like to donate to Project Schoolhouse, visit www.projectschoolhouse.org . Video recycling

SHERIDAN ICE TO SKATE INTO THE NEW YEAR TONIGHT - Tonight at Sheridan Ice you'll be able to ring in the New Year on skates as there is plenty of safe and fun things planned. Joyce Inchauspe with Sheridan Ice explains exactly what's going on: Audio . And if you can't make it by the rink for tonight's festivities, Joyce says they've got a lot on the plate for tomorrow as well: Audio . Once again there will be a free open skate at Sheridan Ice tonight from 7 to midnight at the corner of Brundage Street and Sheridan Avenue.

THIS WEEK'S POLL QUESTION ASKS ABOUT WHICH PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE YOU SUPPORT - We are slowly coming up on the 2008 Presidential Election, and the Sheridan County Republican Conventions are being held this Saturday.  As we get closer, more people are figuring out which presidential hopeful they will cast their votes for.  In light of the Republican County Conventions, we decided to see which candidates were getting support.  So we asked a few people this weeks' Sheridan Media and Bank of Sheridan Weekly Poll Question - “Who do you support for President?”: Audio . 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 930 KROE.

POLAR BEAR CLUB TO JUMP AGAIN - The annual Polar Bear club will once again be jumping into the freezing water of Lake De Smet. The some fifty members of the club, take the plunge every New Year’s day. Member Rob Forister, gives some insight into the jump: Audio . The 2008 jump is a special one, because it is the first in which members will be able to buy t-shirts proclaiming their membership. The t-shirts are fifteen dollars, with all proceeds going to the Dog and Cat Shelter. Rob gives some advice for those brave enough to attempt this jump, bring an extra pair of shoes. He explains: Audio . If you are interested in joining the club, all you have to do is go to Lake De Smet and make the jump. The club meets at 1:00 pm New Year's day at the Monument Boat Ramp. But you don’t have to jump to join in on the fun, as it is also a great spectator sport.

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW ENDS WITH DECEMBER - It doesn't seem possible, but we're already at the last day of 2007, which means it's the final day of our year-end review.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson with December's highlights: Audio .

 

 

Sunday, December 30, 2007

SHERIDAN COUNTY FULMER LIBRARY NEW YEAR'S SCHEDULE - While the City of Sheridan garbage collection schedule won't change this week from the New Year's holiday, there will be some minor changes to the Sheridan County Fulmer public library and it's branches. Library Director Cathy Butler explains: Audio. Butler would also like to remind people that the library is open on Sunday's from 1 to 5pm.

How many birds do you count

STORY BIRD COUNT IS A SMALL CONTRIBUTION TO THE NATIONWIDE COUNT - Yesterday, bird enthusiasts throughout Big Horn and Story traveled up and down county roads and kept a close eye on their bird feeders to contribute to the annual bid count. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details: Audio.

BRATTLEBORO, VERMONT CITIZENS CONSIDER BANNING BUSH - President Bush and Vice President Cheney may soon have a new reason to avoid left-leaning Vermont: In the town of the town of Brattleboro, activists there want arrested the officials for war crimes. A group in that community is petitioning to put an item on the Town Meeting agenda in March that would make Bush and Cheney subject to arrest and indictment if they visit the southeastern Vermont town. Bush has been to every state except Vermont as president. A retired machinist leading the Petition effort says the petition is as radical as the Declaration of Independence and draws on that tradition. It's unclear whether the group can get the one thousand signatures necessary to get the measure on the Town Meeting Day agenda. State Attorney General William Sorrell says that even if passed, the measure would be of dubious legal value.

PARK VOLUNTEERS REPORT POSSIBLE WOLF SIGHTING IN COLORADO - Rocky Mountain National Park officials say that a recent report of a possible wolf sighting is credible, but they say it's difficult to be confirm without more evidence. Ranger Jack Dinsmoor said Friday that two experienced park volunteers reported seeing what looked like a wolf in early December. The volunteers didn't take a picture, but large paw prints were found in the area. Dinsmoor says that park officials are unsure if the animal was a wolf, a wolf hybrid or some other kind of mix. Wolves were wiped out in Colorado by the 1930s, but it has been thought that they could migrate from Wyoming. In 2004, a dead wolf found along Interstate 70 was traced to Yellowstone National Park.

SHOOTING CHARGES: MAN PLEADS GUILTY - A 26 year old Casper man has pleaded guilty to shooting at a car carrying his estranged wife and her two children in July. Eric Funk pleaded guilty on Thursday to attempted second-degree murder and aggravated assault. He also pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of reckless endangerment. Funk faces a sentence of up to 46 years in prison according to Casper District Attorney Mike Blonigen. Judge Thomas Sullins ordered a pre-sentence report to be prepared on the man. Sentencing will occur in about two months. Meghan Funk, 24, had filed papers seeking a divorce from Eric Funk the day of the shooting. Police say Eric Funk opened fire on her car and one of the bullets severed the finger of her seven-year-old son. The finger was reattached. Eric Funk barricaded himself in his wife's home after the shooting. Police say that when he came out, he had cut his wrists and stabbed himself in the chest. Blonigen says it's miraculous that Meghan Funk is still alive.

GAME AND FISH TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETINGS ON REGULATION CHANGES IN JANUARY - The Wyoming Game and Fish Department will be accepting public comment during public information gathering meetings in January to discuss changes to Wyoming Game and Fish Commission regulations Chapter 21, Gray Wolves Designated as Trophy Game Animals and Chapter 28, Regulation Governing Big or Trophy Game Animal or Game Bird Damage Claims. Chapter 21, Gray Wolves Designated as Trophy Game Animals is a new regulation being proposed under 2007 Wyoming State House Bill 0213. This rule will provide definitions of terms used in the statute, and addresses gray wolf population monitoring and lethal control of gray wolves. Chapter 28, Regulation Governing Big or Trophy Game Animal or Game Bird Damage Claims will address damage claims from wolves as trophy game animals. Of the eight meetings being held around the state, one of them will be at the Sheridan Regional Office on January 23rd at 7pm. Written comments will be accepted through Feb. 14, 2008. Comments will also be accepted online at the Game and Fish Web site through Feb. 14.

 

Saturday, December 29, 2007

CONSERVATION EASEMENT PROCESS - Yesterday, we informed you of a new Conversation Easement put into place at the IXL Ranch outside of Dayton. Today, we'll give you some background on how that process works. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details:Audio. For more information visit http://www.wsgalt.org

HAS THE SHERIDAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE SEEN A SPIKE IN CRIMINAL ACTIVITY OVER THE HOLIDAYS? - There's nothing wrong with a little Holiday cheer but sometimes people can get carried away in their celebrations with the end result usually involving law enforcement. We checked with Sheridan County Sheriff Dave Hoffmeier to find out if things have been busier than usual down at the Sheriff's Office: Audio. Be sure to join us on Monday when we'll have some tips from the Sheriff on how to stay safe and still have a good time this New Year's Eve.

FEDERAL PROSECUTOR WANTS NEVADA MAN TO PAY FOR HIS OWN LAWYER - (AP) - A federal prosecutor has asked a judge to review whether the owner of a Nevada brothel who's charged with possessing and transporting child pornography meets the financial requirements to be represented by a federal public defender. David Burgess, 55, is charged with possession and interstate transportation of child pornography. Burgess has pleaded NOT guilty to the charges and is scheduled to stand trial in February. Burgess owns a brothel called the Old Bridge Ranch, east of Reno, Nevada. The Wyoming Highway Patrol arrested Burgess in July following a traffic stop of a motor home near Evanston. Federal prosecutor Jim Anderson said in court last month that a laptop computer found in the motor home contained child pornography. Anderson this week asked U.S. Judge Alan Johnson of Cheyenne to hold a hearing into whether Burgess is qualified to receive free legal representation from the federal public defender's office. Anderson pointed out that Burgess owns a business, a residence and other property. An attempt to reach Burgess' lawyer for comment on Friday was unsuccessful.

POLICE IDENTIFY MAN ALLEGEDLY STABBED IN ARGUMENT OVER REMOTE - (AP) - Police in Gillette have identified a man they say was stabbed on Christmas during an argument with another man over a television remote control. Authorities said 49-year-old Gary Coca was treated at Campbell County Memorial Hospital for wounds to his chest, neck, back and side. Police arrested 43-year-old Leo Gene Bloomfield in connection with the attack. Marcus said the two men were roommates and had been arguing over a TV remote.

DAYTON ANNOUNCES IT'S 07 CHRISTMAS DECORATING CONTEST WINNERS - Dayton has announced the winners for their Town Christmas Decorating contest. The top prize of 50 Dayton dollars went to Mike Price of 506 Main Street, second place was awarded to Bill and Carol Badgelely of 910 Steamboat Drive, they took 25 Dayton Dollars for their efforts. And the fifteen dollar winners for third place were homeowners Don and LaDonna Foley of 606 Bridge street. Honorable mention and 10 Dayton dollars belongs to Rob and Melanie Hium of 165 East Fourth street. The Town of Dayton would also like to recognize it's employees for their great decorating job throughout the town.

SOME MILITARY FAMILIES KEEPING THEIR CHRISTMAS TREES UP UNTIL THEIR SOLDIER COMES HOME - While many of us have already taken down the Christmas tree and put away the decorations, some families of soldiers overseas are keeping up their tree until their soldier returns from duty. The song that has inspired this effort is a song written by Christa Wells, a GMA Songwriter of the Year winner, called “Before the Tree Comes Down.” Wells gives a brief summary of what the song is about:Audio . This song has evoked a lot of emotional reactions from military families, and Wells remembers one woman's reaction after she performed the song at a recent benefit: Audio. All the net proceeds of the song are being donated to the Armed Forces Foundation, which benefits soldiers and veterans. To preview the song, or to purchase it, visit www.itunes.com or www.beforethetreecomesdown.com

 

Friday, December 28, 2007

IXL RANCH CONSERVED BY WYOMING STOCK GROWERS' CONSERVATION EASEMENT - The IXL Ranch has been deemed a conservation easement by the Wyoming Stock Growers' Agricultural Land Trust, or WSGALT. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details: Audio.

WYOMING RANKS 11TH IN PROTECTING KIDS FROM TOBACCO ACCORDING TO A RECENT REPORT - Wyoming ranks 11th in the nation in funding programs that aid in protecting kids from tobacco; this according to a national report released by a coalition of public health organizations. Wyoming currently spends 5.9 million a year on tobacco prevention programs, which is 80% of the minimum amount recommended by the Center for Disease Control. Several of the report's key findings include the fact that tobacco companies spend 27-million dollars a year on marketing in Wyoming, five times what the state spends on prevention.  It also showed that the state this year will collect nearly 50-million dollars from the tobacco settlement and taxes, but will spend only twelve and a half percent of that money on tobacco prevention. Executive Director for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, William Corr, said that Wyoming has made a solid commitment in protecting kids, but the ultimate success depends on whether the state continues to properly fund and implement its tobacco prevention programs. The report indicated that most states fail to fund prevention programs at minimum levels recommended by the CDC. Only three states, Maine, Delaware, and Colorado currently fund tobacco prevention programs at CDC minimum levels.

DEADLINE TO REGISTER FOR LEADERSHIP SHERIDAN COUNTY 2008 IS FAST APPROACHING - The Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce wants to remind everybody that registration for Leadership Sheridan County 2008 will end soon. Chamber of Commerce Board President Jim Schellinger gives us the details: Audio. Schellinger explains some of the many benefits that can be obtained by taking part in the program: Audio. The cost to take part in Leadership Sheridan County is three hundred  seventy-five dollars and includes a day-and-a-half retreat and eight full-day modules over an eight month period. Participants will also take an overnight trip to Cheyenne to get a first hand look at the Wyoming State Legislature in action.  Once again the deadline to sign up is next Monday December 31st. For more information, visit http://www.sheridanwyomingchamber.org/ .

EARLY NUMBERS ARE LOOKING GOOD FOR VISITORS IN YELLOWSTONE  - Yellowstone National Park has been open for winter use for a little over a week now, and we checked in to see how things are going. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more: Audio

RENEW GIVES BACK TO SHERIDAN BY ADOPTING A FAMILY FOR CHRISTMAS - Yesterday, we told you about how RENEW celebrated Christmas for its clients. In this story, reporter Kate Fetterly details how RENEW has helped to give back to Sheridan for Christmas: Audio.

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW REMEMBERS NOVEMBER - We're nearly to the end of our 2007 Re-Cap, and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson recalls November: Audio.

 

Thursday, December 27, 2007

THIS WEEK'S POLL QUESTION ASKS YOUR OPINION: SHOULD  SHERIDAN  HIGH STUDENTS BE REQUIRED TO ATTEND SATURDAY SCHOOL? - This weeks' Sheridan Media and Bank of Sheridan Weekly Poll Question is “Do you support the new High School policy of making students who don't do their homework come back to school on Saturdays?” The Question stems from a policy recently implemented at Sheridan High School requiring that students have no more than 3 missing assignments from all of a student's classes. We heard from a few Sheridan High School Students and here's what they had to say about the policy:   Audio. We'd Let us know what you think. Answer the poll question and feel free to leave comments in our forum. Then be sure to listen for the results on Open Line Friday, in the 9 o'clock hour on News-Talk 930 KROE.

SHERIDAN  COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES SECOND CHANCE WINNER - This morning, the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce announced it's Second Chance Winner for the 1 thousand dollar cash drawing for the Stroll Button winners who claimed their prizes at participating businesses. This year's one thousand dollar prize winner was button number 2738 and who was the lucky winner?:   Audio. That excited individual was Janelle Martinsen, Executive Director at the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce. She says that out of 95 participating businesses, only 36 had winners who claimed their prizes, and that improved the odds of winning the second chance cash, she continues: Audio. Martinsen continues, noting the turnout for the overall 2007 Christmas stroll: Audio. Martinsen added that she hopes to see one hundred businesses join the stroll button campaign next year.

POLICE: MAN STABBED IN ARGUMENT OVER REMOTE CONTROL - GILLETTE, Wyo. (AP) - Police in Gillette say a man stabbed another man in the chest and neck during an argument over a television remote control. Authorities said 43-year-old Leo Gene Bloomfield faces a possible charge of attempted second-degree murder following the stabbing just after midnight on Christmas. Police Cpt. Jason Marcus said Bloomfield called from the Circle L Motel. Marcus said police arrived and found Bloomfield walking around a room while another man lay between the two beds. Marcus said the two men had been arguing over a TV remote. The identity of the wounded man wasn't released.

MOUNTAIN MEADOW WOOL IN BUFFALO RECIEVES FIVE-THOUSAND DOLLAR AWARD - Mountain Meadow Wool of Buffalo recently received a five-thousand dollar Phase 0 Award through the Wyoming Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer and Initiative and the Wyoming Business Council. The SBIR Phase 0 program is designed to help state companies develop competitive proposals for the federal SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer programs. Mountain Meadow will use the 5K to submit a proposal to the Department of Defense to study the feasibility of utilizing wool in a shelter designed to protect military working dogs from chemical and biological attack. Valerie Spanos from Mountain Meadow Wool on receiving the money: Audio. Spanos explains why a shelter composed of wool would benefit everyone involved: Audio. In addition to comfort in extreme temperature, the Department of Defense is requesting that the material and the shelter itself allow for the transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide, be flame resistant and absorb moisture. With Mountain Meadow's past research into the qualities of wool, they believe that wool in conjunction with evolving smart textile technology is an ideal material for solving this problem.

WYOMING GAME AND FISH TO RAISE LICENSE FEES FOR 2008 - Last week we told you about the Wyoming Game and Fish Department raising their hunting and fishing license fees for 2008.  Today we'll tell you why those fees are being raised. Game and Fish Deputy Director, John Emmerich, explains it's all about keeping up with the times: Audio. As of January 1st 2008, the cost for a resident elk license will be fifty-two dollars, a deer license will be thirty-eight dollars and an antelope license will run thirty-eight dollars. A one-year fishing license will go up to twenty-four dollars.

TONGUE RIVER COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE IS THIS AFTERNOON - The Tongue River Valley Community Center in Ranchester will be busy this afternoon beginning at 1 o'clock, and it has nothing to do returning those Christmas sweaters that were two sizes too small. Event Sponsor Riki Davidson explains what's going on: Audio. Davidson reminds us of the requirements when donating blood: Audio. Riki says that the demand for blood is high regardless what time of year it is: Audio. Davidson also reminds people to eat, and to drink plenty of liquids before and after donating. The Tongue River Valley Community Blood Drive will be this afternoon from 1 to 6 at the Tongue River Valley Community Center in Ranchester. Appointments are appreciated but not mandatory as walk-ins will be welcome also.  You can also check the Community Calendar link at Sheridan Media dot com for contact information.

HOW RENEW CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS - With the cheer of Christmas still fresh in our minds, we have a look at how a local organization helps it's clients celebrate Christmas. Reporter Kate Fetterly took an exclusive look inside RENEW, and has this report: Audio.
 
UW LICENSE PLATES NOW AVAILABLE - The University of Wyoming's Alumni license plates are now available at County Treasurers' offices throughout the state. The much-sought-after U W plates were approved by the '07 Wyoming State  Legislature, as well as the  U W Board of Trustees. It features the traditional bucking horse logo with a brown background and gold numbers, and “University of Wyoming” letters. All the proceeds from the plates, at a rate of 130 dollars, plus the regular licensing fees, will be used exclusively to support student assistance programs. The breakdown on that value is 100 dollars for  UW scholarships, and 30 dollars to the Wyoming Department of Transportation. The plates can be displayed starting on the first of  January of '08. Motorists do not need to wait for their current plates to expire to obtain the plates. You can get your hands on the new UW Alumni license plates through an application process at your local county treasurer's office, or by visiting Wyoming Alumni -www.wyoalumni.com .

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW CONTEMPLATES OCTOBER - The first month of Autumn 2007 brought the usual vibrant colors to our northeastern Wyoming landscape.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson looks back on October: Audio.

 

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

GILLETTE SOLDIER RETURNS FROM AFGHANISTAN, KILLED IN CRASH - A family in Gillette is marking the holiday season without 23-year-old Brandon Foster, who was killed in a car crash last month.Foster was in the Army's 10th Mountain Division and wasstationed in Afghanistan. It's a bitter irony that Foster hadn't even been back in the United States three months when he was killed when the car he was riding in struck a deer.Friends and family remember Foster as a man who lived life tothe limit. He also was known as a skilled mechanic and a guy wholoved pickup trucks.

FREUDENTHAL WELCOMES NATIONAL GUARD CHANGE - CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) - Governor Freudenthal says he welcomes federal legislation repealing the president's newly acquired powerto call up the National Guard without consulting governors. Last year's defense authorization bill included a provisionenabling the president to call up Guard members for domesticemergencies without consulting the governor of their state. Thisyear's defense authorization bill would repeal that change.The bill cleared the House on Dec. 12 and Senate on Dec. 14. Freudenthal says he expects that President Bush will sign themeasure.The National Governors Association and governors from bothparties said state authorities are better positioned than federal authorities to control Guard troops.

10TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS WISH BRINGS SMILES FOR THOSE LESS FORTUNATE - Sheridan Media, along with Sheridan Motors, teamed up once again for the 2007 Christmas Wish Campaign that helps provide gifts for those less fortunate this time of year. Thirty-four wishes were granted this year, helping twenty-eight local families and over ninety-three children to have a Merry Christmas. The Christmas Wish Campaign would not be a success without the donations from the community, which totaled fifty-five between businesses and private donors.  In all, over thirteen-thousand dollars were raised this year to help make Christmas special for everyone. To read about some of the wishes that were fulfilled, click here.

NOW THAT CHRISTMAS IS BEHIND US, WHAT TO DO WITH THOSE CHRISTMAS TREES - Christmas 2007 is now a thing of the past and most of us have already begun gearing up for New Year's Eve. But what about that little slice of nature that has been taking up residence in your living room as of late? The City of Sheridan has some advice on just what to do with those Christmas trees. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more: Audio.  

MAKE A RESOLUTION TO BE PART OF THE SOLUTION - If you're looking for something for yourself or your kids to do next year, the Sheridan County Fair Association has an event for you!  On Saturday, January 5, 2008 from 10 am to 4 pm, there will be a Resolution Solution event at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds in the Exhibit Hall.  Sharon Nadeau, the Director of Facilities at the Fairgrounds, describes what the event is and what groups will be there: Audio. Nadeau adds that volunteering may not be as time-consuming as you think it is: Audio. Nadeau says that there is room for more booths, and they are looking forward to the event: Audio. The event is free to attend, and there will be pizza, drinks, and baked goods for sale to benefit the Tongue River Round Up 4-H Club.  For more information, visit www.sherfair.com.

WYOMING ROADS LESS TRAVELED GET MILLIONS FROM FEDERAL BUDGET - Thirty-nine million dollars for the roads “less traveled.” That's how much Congress has approved for cleaning up, shutting down, and/or erasing old and unused roads in National Forests, and a big chunk of that money will come to Wyoming. Wilderness Society. Economist, Joe  Kirkvliet says the funding helps in several ways: Audio. Kirkvliet points out that the Forest Service helped create the plan because it will save money: Audio. Kirkvliet said that de-commissioning old and sometimes dangerous roads in National Forests has been a topic of controversy only because there are some that feel it will limit forest access; however, access will be taken into consideration before any roads are chosen for removal.

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW RECOUNTS SEPTEMBER - After the horrendous month August turned out to be for so many, September arrived with relative calm.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson winds down the summer portion of her 2007 Re-Cap: Audio.  

NOMINATIONS SOUGHT FOR BRAVO! ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS - Nominations are being accepted for the 5th annual Bravo! Entrepreneur awards, which honors entrepreneurs throughout Wyoming.  The event is being sponsored by the Wyoming Business Report and First Interstate Bank.  Criteria for the awards include demonstrating the best traits of entrepreneurship, including vision, drive, perseverance and willingness to take risks.   One Bravo! Award will be given to an entrepreneur in each of the six regions of the state.  Phil Noble, publisher of the Wyoming Business Report, says there are also a few bigger awards: Audio. If you want more information, Noble provides the website: Audio. The 5th Annual Bravo Awards event takes place on February 26, 2008 at the Little America Hotel in Cheyenne. For more information, visit www.wyomingbusinessreport.com .

2ND ANNUAL BALES AND BOVINES CONFERENCE BEING HELD JAN. 7 - The Bales and Bovines Conference, the first of four conferences in the Winter Ag Expo, will be held at the State Fairgrounds in Douglas on January 7th.  All Wyoming producers are encouraged to enter the hay show at the conference, which features three classes: alfalfa, grass hay and mixed hay.  Contestants are limited to one entry, and are allowed to enter either one small, square bale; a flake from a 3-by-3 bale; or a sample of a bale brought in a plastic tote.  The samples are due by 1 pm on the 7th and will be sent to the Ward Labs of Kearney, Nebraska.  The results will be announced at 4 pm on the 8th, with top scoring bales receiving prizes.Entering into the show is free, and the general public is welcome to attend also.  Scott Keith, Livestock and Forage Program Manager at the Wyoming Business Council, says spectators can also get involved in the action: Audio. Prizes will be given out in this event as well.  Other conferences making up the Winter Ag Expo include the Roping the Wind Conference, the Innovative Marketing Expo, and the Farmer's Market Conference.  For more information on this conference or any of the other conferences, visit www.wyoagexpo.com .

 

Monday, December 24, 2007

REPUBLICAN COUNTY CONVENTIONS HEAR A REPLY FROM CITIZENS INTERESTED IN ATTENDING THE REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTIONS - Sheridan County Republicans can be sure to look forward to an exciting County Convention that's less than two weeks away.Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details: Audio.

GARBAGE PICKUP IN SHERIDAN IS GOING TO BE A BIT DIFFERENT THIS WEEK - The schedule for the City of Sheridan garbage pickup will have a few changes to it this week due to the Christmas holiday. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: Audio.Click here for Holiday Trash Pickup Schedule.

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW RECOLLECTS AUGUST - Just as the weather generally has patterns, it would appear that the 2007 history of Sheridan County will go down as having one weather-related big story after another, and no month was more so than August.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson reports: Audio.

UW TO ESTABLISH WIND ENERGY RESEARCH CENTER - LARAMIE, Wyo. (AP) - The University of Wyoming is establishing a wind energy research center with help from $4 million in donations from BP America plus matching state funds.  The center will be based in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Houston-based BP America is donating $2 million directly for the center plus $2 million for the university's new School of Energy Resources. UW officials say the university plans to use all $4 million for the wind energy research center. With matching funds from a state program, the project will get a total of $8 million. Currently less than 1 percent of the nation's electricity comes from wind. The American Wind Energy Association estimates that wind could supply up to 20 percent of that power.

 

Sunday, December 23, 2007

SHERIDAN COUNTY FULMER LIBRARY WILL BE CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAY - With Xmas just a couple of days away, you can bet there'll be a lot of closures throughout Sheridan County for the holiday. Sheridan County Public Library System Director Cathy Butler clues us in on the library's holiday schedule:Audio. Butler said that the library and it's branches will be open on Monday December 31st, but that they will close at 5pm and be closed on New Year's Day. They will be open for business as usual on January 2nd.

GREAT LAKES IS POISED TO OVERTAKE SERVICE FROM BIG SKY AIRLINES - Great Lakes Aviation is set to take over flights to seven Montana towns being dropped by Big Sky Airlines, says Great Lakes spokeswoman Monica Taylor. Taylor said that representatives for Great Lakes were in Billings on Friday, noting that they intend to offer jobs to Big Sky employees. You may recall that Big Sky announced late last week that they're ending East Coast operations January 7th due to unusually bad weather, disappointing revenue and record-high fuel prices. An order from the Washington, D.C. DOT Office will allow Great Lakes to take over Big Sky's federally subsidized Essential Air  Service, or EAS, flights in Montana within about 60 days. E-A-S is a program that offers air carriers federal subsidies to fly to small cities and towns that may be unprofitable to serve. Federal regulations require Big Sky to cut all of its E-A-S flights systemwide because it was cutting its E-A-S flights in the East.

SHERIDAN POLICE WERE BUSY YESTERDAY - The Sheridan PD was busy yesterday with a lot of calls to attend to, according to Lieutenant Chris Dahmke: Audio. He continued, sang that it was busy, but not because of the Christmas season: Audio. The Sheridan PD are in the process of adding 3 more police officers to the force.  

TOYS FOR TOTS DRIVE BRINGS JOY TO LESS FORTUNATE CHILDREN - Nearly 1000 Sheridan area children received toys from the Marine Corps' Toys for Tot's drive yesterday. There were more than an abundance of toys as facility provider Roy Pack explains: Audio. Pack continued, noting that this was the first year Toys for Tot's was housed in the Cloud Peak Initiatives' building: Audio. It's been an emotional time for all the families that were helped: Audio. Overall, the Marine Corps' Toys for Tots has been helping families less fortunate since the troops returned from World War II.

TWO SPECIAL NUMBER ONES FOR SHERIDAN'S RODEO AND WYOMING'S TRAIL SYSTEMS - Wyoming and Sheridan have been honored with two number ones in the past week, as reported by Sheridan Media. The first, the  Continental Divide snowmobile trail was voted as the number one trail in the west for 2007 by SnoWest magazine readers. Wind River Visitors Council Marketing Director Paula McCormick elaborates on the number one ranking: Audio. McCormick said that since the trail is so long and extensive, it offers plenty of opportunities for everyone from the most advanced to the beginning rider. And the second number one ranking, Sheridan's own WYO Rodeo recently received the “Rodeo of the Year Award” when it was voted as the “Cowboys Choice” at the Mountain States Circuit Finals Rodeo in Denver. Sheridan WYO Rodeo Board member Tom Ringley says it's an honor to be recognized by the cowboys and cowgirls as being the best: Audio. Tom said that tickets for the 2008 rodeo will be going on sale in March and we will be sure to keep you posted on any and all announcements in regards to the next Sheridan WYO Rodeo.

CHRISTMAS GIFT STABBING - Rock Springs Police say a woman stabbed her husband with a kitchen knife following an argument that started when she accused him of opening a Christmas present early. 34 year-old Misty Johnson has been charged with aggravated assault and battery, a felony, and misdemeanor domestic battery, following the incident with her husband, 34-year-old Shawn Johnson. Police say Shawn Johnson was treated and released at a local hospital for a minor wound to the chest. On Thursday, a judge on set bail for Misty Johnson at $7,500. According to the Sweetwater County Sheriff's Office, Johnson was released from the county jail on Friday. Rock Springs Police say Shawn Johnson reported the stabbing in a 911 call just before  1 a.m. on Wednesday morning. Shawn Johnson told police that his wife started arguing immediately after she returned home shortly before the stabbing incident. Police are unsure of the presents' contents, or whether or not it was intended for Shawn Johnson.

 

Saterday, December 22, 2007

CITY ADMINISTRATOR CHARTER ORDINANCE ONE TO BE VOTED ON - Sheridan City Clerk - Treasurer Art Elkins announced Friday that there will be a referendum election on Charter Ordinance one, establishing a City Administrator. This, following the verification of a petition filed, asking for the election. Elkins gives the breakdown in the total amount of signatures collected for the vote:Audio . By law, according to Elkins, that election has to be held on or before  February 29th, notably, leap year day. Furthermore, the city council is the governing body to call the election. Elkins comments there's an issue with that: Audio. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey gives his thoughts on the upcoming election:Audio . Elkins, along with assistant Clerk Kristen Bunning and Scott Badley, who's the Deputy Clerk-Treasurer, determined the signatures over the past several weeks. The signatures arrived to the city via Banner resident Vicky Taylor in late November. The Clerks office used several means to verify the signatures, including reverse address checks. There were 5 or 6 duplicate signatures, which were not counted.

TOYS FOR TOTS DISTRIBUTION SET FOR TODAY - The Marine Cores' Annual Toys for tots drive has a presence in Sheridan and it's going on today. Organizer Jim Craig gives the details: Audio. Craig says they've got thousands of toys to give away, and they're going to be giving them away from 9 until 6 tomorrow at 151 West Brundage Street in Sheridan.

THERE'S A LOT GOING ON AT SHERIDAN ICE! - The Sheridan Ice Rink is packed full of events this pre- holiday  weekend, and Sheridan Ice organizer Joyce gives us the details: Audio. She continues, detailing more about the so called “art” of curling: Audio. And what can you expect to see on the ice tomorrow? Audio. Sheridan ice is located at the corner of Brundage Street and Sheridan Avenue. For more information go here sheridanice.org.

FIRE ADVISORY BOARD RESULTS - The City of Sheridan Fire Civil Service Commission met yesterday to release the names of Fire Rescue employee candidates on the Fire Civil Service List.The release allows Sheridan Fire Rescue Chief Patrick Reitz to go forth with the selection process in selecting four more candidates for the Fire Department. He requested that the board release all 15 names on the list, versus the former 5 at a time rule, due to dwindling Fire Civil Service Commission membership. Fire Chief Reitz stated that he'll operate the list as he has in the past, using the rule of fives. That calls for the Chief to interview and eliminate candidates as deemed necessary in hiring entry level firefighters, up to the paramedic level. The Fire Civil service commission, a three member board, also gave the chief permission to conduct the proper testing in the event that he does exhaust the list of qualified Civil service candidates. The new jobs are expected to be filled by the first of February.

WEEKEND WEATHER OUTLOOK AND PERHAPS A WHITE XMAS ON THE WAY FOR OUR AREA - The front that moved through our area late Thursday night brought with it snow and wind and an inevitable drop in temperatures. Senior Forecaster Dan Borsum with the National Weather Service in Billings says although it may feel bitterly cold, the temps are pretty much right on average:Audio . Borsum said that we could see some occasional snow showers throughout tonight and the overnight. So what's the likelihood of a white Xmas for our region?: Audio. Borsum pointed out that with the good chance of snow for Monday and Tuesday means that the temps should be a little bit warmer as wells as highs both days are expected to be in the 30's.

WYOMING'S RIB AND CHOP HOUSE TO RELOCATE - The Wyoming Rib and Chop house currently located in the Historic Sheridan Inn is going to be closing in Mid January. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details: Audio.

WYOMING'S CONTINENTAL DIVIDE SNOWMOBILE TRAIL GETS NUMBER ONE RANKING - Wyoming's Continental Divide snowmobile trail has been voted as the number one trail in the west for 2007 by SnoWest magazine readers. Wind River Visitors Council Marketing Director Paula McCormick elaborates on the number one ranking: Audio. McCormick says that the trail is one of the West's largest and longest trail systems: Audio. McCormick said that since the trail is so long and extensive, it offers plenty of opportunities for everyone from the most advanced to the beginner rider.  More information on the number one ranked Continental Divide snowmobile trail can be found at www.wind-river.org or www.sledwyoming.com

LAKE DE SMET COUNTIES COALITION MEETING  - The Lake De Smet Counties Coalition  Joint Powers Board met earlier this week for their regular December meeting. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details:Audio.

 

 

Friday, December 21, 2007

WYOMING'S RIB AND CHOP HOUSE TO RELOCATE - The Wyoming Rib and Chop house currently located in the Historic Sheridan Inn is going to be closing in Mid January. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details: Audio.  

BIG SKY AIRLINES TO STOP SERVICE TO SHERIDAN  - Under a contract deal reached on Tuesday, it was made official that Big Sky Airlines will terminate it's Sheridan airline service between  Sheridan and Denver, as well as flights to Billings, as of January 7th. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details: Audio.

CITY OF SHERIDAN TO HOLD CONFERENCE FOR CITY ADMINISTRATOR POSITION - We have learned that the City of Sheridan will hold a conference this afternoon to announce the total amount of verified signatures of Sheridan Residents who are interested in seeing the City Administrator ordinance go before the public for a ballot referendum vote. According to City of Sheridan Assistant City Clerk, Kristen Bunning, they'll determine this afternoon if they'll hold a special election. The petitions were first turned in to the City Clerk's office on Wednesday, November 28th. If it is deemed necessary today, the special election must be called within thirty days of when the petitions were turned in, and if an election is called, it must be within 90 days of that same date. You can expect to hear our report this evening about the results from the meeting.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES - The Sheridan College Board of Trustees held their final meeting of the year last night.  As is usual, all community colleges in the state have a keen interest in each legislative session, and the Northwest Community College District is no exception.  President Kevin Drumm tells us what they'll be looking to the legislature for in the 2008 Budget Session: Audio. Also from the meeting -- trustees authorized a new Associate Degree in Health Sciences for areas not currently offered at the school: Audio. And two administrators have new titles:  Cheryl Heath goes from Dean of Administration to Vice President of Administration; and Mark Englert has the new moniker of Vice President for Enrollment Services – he formerly had the title Dean of Students.  Both Heath's and Englert's job descriptions and duties remain the same.

SALVATION ARMY AND COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AGREE ON PARKING ALLOWANCE - Earlier this week, the Sheridan County Commissioners came to an agreement with the Sheridan Chapter of the Salvation Army to allow them to use the county's parking lot for Sunday services parking. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details: Audio.

OPERATION C.A.R.E. KICKED OFF LIFE SAVER WEEKEND TODAY - The holidays are now upon us, and the Wyoming Highway Patrol wants everyone to be safe throughout this holiday season. As of today, The Wyoming Highway Patrol and other State Police agencies have kicked off the national Combined Accident Reduction Efforts, or C.A.R.E. - Life Saver Weekend. Sergeant Stephen Townsend of the Wyoming Highway Patrol explains three specific things they are looking for this weekend: Audio. Highway Patrolmen are working extra hours over the pre-holiday weekend to keep an eye out for impaired drivers, and funding for this comes from the Federal 402 Highway Safety grant.   In order to stay safe and avoid getting pulled over this weekend, Sgt. Townsend has these tips: Audio. If you witness an impaired driver, Sgt. Townsend gives a few numbers you can call to report them: Audio. The Highway Patrol has put out this simple message for everyone to follow: Drunk Driving - Over the Limit, Under Arrest. For more information, call REDDI number:  1-800-442-9090 or; From your cell:  #H-E-L-P.

THE NEW YEAR WILL BRING NEW FISHING REGULATIONS IN WYOMING - Of the many new things that come with the New Year are revised fishing regulations that will affect many anglers in our area. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: Audio. For more information, call 672-7418 or visit http://gf.state.wy.us.        

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW REMEMBERS JULY - Six down, and six more to go – Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson continues her look back at 2007 with the month of July: Audio.

TUBA CHRISTMAS -- IT'S BECOMING A FAVORITE TRADITION  - The eighth annual Tuba Christmas will be happening tomorrow at the Sheridan Holiday Inn Atrium. The event will feature tuba, baritone, and euphonium (you-phone-ee-um) players of all ages performing Christmas favorites, and is open to the public.  Tuba Christmas organizer -- as well as player -- Dale Hoffman, encourages people to come: Audio. Registration to play at this event will be held in the Sheridan High School band room at 9:15 tomorrow morning. There is a five dollar registration fee, as well as a fifteen dollar Christmas music book fee. Prizes will be given for various things including the best decorated tuba, as well as the youngest and oldest Tuba player. Rehearsals begin at 9:30am Saturday morning at the school. The group will then move to the Holiday Inn Atrium, where they will begin playing tomorrow afternoon at 1:30.

ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS CHALLENGE TWO ELK PERMIT - GILLETTE, Wyo. - Two environmental groups have filed a courtpetition questioning a construction permit for a coal-fired powerplant outside Gillette.  The Powder River Basin Resource Council and the Sierra Club filed the petition Thursday in Laramie County District Court. The groups say that North American Power Group didn't do sufficient work on the Two Elk plant south of Gillette over a two-year period to justify continuing the permit. Specifically the groups question a conclusion by the state Department of Environmental Quality that enough work was in fact done on the plant over the two-year period. Reed Zars, an attorney for the environmental groups, says the department's decision regarding the permit is "highly suspect.” A message left with the Department of Environmental Quality wasn't returned Thursday. (Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.) AP-NY-12-20-07 2048EST

 

Thursday, December 20, 2007

PASSAGE OF RURAL HEALTH PROVISIONS HELPS WYOMING DOCTORS AND HOSPITALS – The U.S. Senate passed the “Medicare, Medicaid and State Children's Health Insurance Program Extension Act” on Tuesday night, and in that bill were extensions of rural health provisions that benefit Wyoming health care.  U.S. Senator John Barrasso explains exactly how this bill helps Wyoming's seniors, doctors, and hospitals: Audio. This bill also extends the S-CHIP program for 18 months.  Senator Barrasso says he fights for these provisions in the Senate because they help out rural families: Audio. This extension prevents large pay cuts for both doctors and hospitals in Wyoming, in large part because Medicare accounts for about 70% of total revenue for rural hospitals.  This extension also lets the  S-CHIP program continue to provide health insurance for more than 6,000 low-income children in Wyoming.

SUPERVALU SET TO ACQUIRE 8 ALBERTSONS' STORES IN WYOMING - We have just learned that Supervalu, an Eden Prairie, Minnesota- based company, is set to acquire eight Wyoming Albertsons locations. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details: Audio.

SHERIDAN WYO RODEO VOTED COWBOY'S CHOICE - The Sheridan WYO Rodeo recently received the “Rodeo of the Year Award” when it was voted as the “Cowboys Choice” at the Mountain States Circuit Finals Rodeo in Denver Colorado. Sheridan WYO Rodeo Board member Tom Ringley says it's an honor to be recognized by the cowboys and cowgirls as being the best: Audio. Awards and accolades aside, Ringley points out that planning for next year's Rodeo has been going on for some time now: Audio. Tom said that tickets for the 2008 rodeo will be going on sale in March and we will be sure to keep you posted on any and all announcements in regards to the next Sheridan WYO Rodeo.

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW RECALLS THE MONTH OF JUNE - Thoughts of summertime are welcome about this time of year, and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson takes us back to what happened during the month of June 2007: Audio.

THE PUBLIC IS INVITED TO TAKE A FORT FETTERMAN BATTLEFIELD TOUR THIS WEEK - Don't let the chilly December weather deter you from taking part in a historic tour of the Fort Fetterman Battlefield. It's the 141st Anniversary Tour and it's going on tomorrow.  Site Superintendent Robert Wilson has the particulars of the event that took place December 21st, 1866: Audio. Wilson says they'll also fire authentic artillery pieces . He added that members of Kearney's Frontier Regulars, who will be clad in period costume, will discuss the activities of the soldiers and why they'd taken the route they had to the battlefield. From there, Wilson says, attendees will carpool to the battle site and then walk about a mile down to the field: Audio. Wilson advises wearing warm clothes and snowboots for the trek to the battle site.After the tour, folks will return to the Visitor's Center to watch a weapons demonstration, to participate in a question and answer time, and to enjoy refreshments.There is no fee to participate, and the tour will take about a half-day, running from 10 am to approximately 3 pm.  For further information, contact Robert Wilson:  (307) 684-7629 or rwilso@state.wy.us .

THE BUFFALO CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT  - This past weekend, the Buffalo community held it's 22nd annual Christmas Bird Count. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: Audio. For more information, visit http://www.audubon.org/bird/cbc/ .

SHERIDAN COLLEGE MAIN STREET CAMPUS TO HOST FINAL HOLIDAY SEASON HIATUS TONIGHT - The final installment of the Sheridan College Main Street Campus “Holiday Season Hiatus” is tonight and to tell us what's going on is I-TEC Assistant Denise Canfield: Audio. Canfield explains that there will be more than just short films at tonight's “Holiday Season Hiatus” as well: Audio. The final “Holiday Season Hiatus” is tonight from 5 to 6:30 at the Sheridan College Main Street campus at 171 North Main Street, is free and open to the public.

WYOMING GAME AND FISH NOW OFFERS HUNTER EDUCATION CLASS ENROLLMENT ONLINE - Getting a hunter education certification card is now as easy as going on line, and with January marking the beginning of the hunter education class season, a new tool is being offered by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department that will allow people to enroll in the class on line. Game and Fish Hunter Education Coordinator, Jim Dawson, says it's all about convenience: Audio. Dawson explains the process of what one needs to do to register on line: Audio. Hunter Education in Wyoming is required by state statute for hunters born on or after January 1st 1966.  Information on how to enroll for hunter education is available at the Game and Fish website: http://gf.state.wy.us/index.asp .

 

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

COUNTY COMMISSION - PATHWAYS AND AIRPORT LEASES  - The Sheridan County Commissioners met for their final meeting of 2007. There's a lot going on at the Sheridan County Airport! Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: Audio.

PHONES AT COUNTY COURTHOUSE – WHY DIDN'T THEY BID PROJECT OUT LOCALLY? - Last week we reported that the Sheridan County Courthouse was fitted with a new phone system, installed by Collins Communication out of Gillette.  Earlier this week, we heard from local phone contractors who told us the County never put the job out for bid to give Sheridan companies an opportunity to secure the contract. Sheridan County Administrative Director, Renee Obermueller, explains the reason why: Audio. Obermueller said that because of time constraints at that point, and based on Collins service they decided to stick with them.  Obermueller also pointed out that Collins will be putting an office in Sheridan: Audio. By statute the County only has advertise bids for Sheridan County Road projects.

LET'S MEET THE NEW POLICE OFFICERS! - In our story yesterday, we told you about the addition of three more Police officers to the Sheridan PD. Today, we present you with an introduction to the three men. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details:   Audio.

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE SHERIDAN RECREATION DISTRICT BOARD HELD LAST NIGHT - The Sheridan Recreation District Board held a special meeting last night to determine the future of youth baseball in Sheridan. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: Audio.

SHERIDAN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 1 BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETS WITH LEGISLATORS, GETS READY FOR GROUND BREAKING - It was a lengthy meeting last night, as the Sheridan County School District 1 board went into an hour-long Executive Session in the middle to address a confidential issue with parents.  But Superintendent Sue Belish tells us about some of the highlights of the public portion: Audio. It is customary each December for the board to re-assign those positions – or officially keep them the same, as in this case. Other agenda items, the Board accepted the audit, after receiving an “Unqualified Opinion”;  and they set the date for the long-anticipated groundbreaking of the new Tongue River High School: Audio. Prior to the meeting, District 1 trustees had a dinner meeting with the Sheridan legislative delegation: Audio. We'll have more Sheridan County District 1 news later today, and you can be sure we'll be prepared to cover the Tongue River High School groundbreaking on January 10th.

SEEDA BOARD STARTS PROCESS OF GATHERING PROPOSALS ON NEW CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER - The Sheridan Economic & Educational Development Authority Joint Powers Board, or SEEDA, met last night.  Chairman Tom Sachse tells us one agenda item they covered: Audio. The Joint Powers Board discussed start-up costs and how each entity –Sheridan College, the City of Sheridan and School District 2 – would share those costs.  And the main action? Audio. Sachse says the location of that property in the center of downtown Sheridan is ideal.

DRILLING NEAR FLAMING GORGE HAS TAKEN MANY LOCALS BY SURPRISE - The BLM has announced that it is clearing the way for gas drilling near Flaming Gorge ... an area many assumed was off limits to development due to the fact that it's a nationally recognized hunting and recreation zone. Rock Springs resident Karl Kronfuss feels that the whole project was done under the table, citing that the public comment period was open just nine days and no information about the impact to wildlife habitat was made public: Audio. The BLM says it did follow all guidelines in giving the drilling company permission to move into the area, and that the project is for only two exploratory wells, not mass development. Based on past history of other exploratory projects in the state, Kronfuss feels the BLM is down playing the incident: Audio. Kronfuss and many others living near the Flaming Gorge area feel that the BLM should have let the public review the information and give their input before the decision to put the wells in was made.

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW REFLECTS UPON MAY - The weather turns warmer and Sheridan County kids gear up for the end of another school year. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson with other highlights of May '07: Audio.

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK IS OPEN FOR WINTER USE TODAY - The interior of Yellowstone National Park is now open for the winter season this morning, which means visitors will be able to take commercially guided snowmobile and snowcoach trips over snow covered, groomed roads to popular destinations including Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The final long term winter use plan for Yellowstone calls for operations to continue this winter like they have the past three winters, with changes to begin next winter. Up to 720 commercially guided Best Available Technology or BAT snowmobiles a day will be allowed to enter the park this winter. All snowmobiles and snowcoaches will continue to be 100% commercially guided and Sylvan Pass will remain open to motorized over-snow travel.

 

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL MET FOR THEIR FINAL MEETING OF THE YEAR LAST NIGHT - Sheridan City Council wrapped up 2007 with their last regularly scheduled meeting of the year last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: Audio

CITY OF SHERIDAN OPTS TO REDUCE FEES IMPOSED ON DEVELOPER - Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey announced Monday evening that the City has reached a resolution with Stonebridge Builders regarding the investigation fee they were assessed on an affordable housing project. That 21-thousand dollar fee has been reduced down to 21-hundred dollars. During a speech, the Mayor refreshes our memory about the circumstances surrounding the investigation fees: Audio.. The Mayor comments that the builder sat down with the City staff at the same table to come to an agreement. He comments about the viability of the solution: Audio. According to Mayor Kinskey, the only other option would have been for the builder to appear and hold a hearing before the City Council at last night's meeting, and then that would have been the final option with out the opportunity for appeal.

THREE MORE POLICE OFFICERS ADDED TO SHERIDAN FORCE - Sheridan added an additional three officers to the police force  yesterday morning.  Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey, along with officers from the Sheridan police department, welcomed 3 new faces to the force. The three new officers are Adam Belthazor of East Bethel, Minnesota; Paul Pluger of Muskegon , Michigan; and a Sheridan resident for the past 9 years, Sam Damon. Sergeant Travis Koltiska discusses the long road to becoming a Sheridan police officer:Audio .  What's the next step for the new officers?Audio. The three new officers bring Sheridan's police force to a total of 32. These new additions are going to be general patrol officers. Tomorrow, we'll hear a little more about the three new officers who have joined the Sheridan PD.

THE 2007 CHRISTMAS FOOD AND TOY DRIVE HAS WRAPPED UP - The 2007 Christmas Food and Toy Drive ended yesterday afternoon. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: Audio 

GAME AND FISH TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING TONIGHT AT SHERIDAN REGIONAL OFFICE - The Wyoming Game and Fish Department will be holding a public meeting tonight at the Sheridan Regional Office to present proposals for the 2008 black bear season and to discuss the objective for the Jackson bison herd. Game and Fish Information Specialist Warren Mischke: Audio. Mischke explains what changes will most affect our area: Audio. Warren said that more detailed information regarding the black bear hunt areas in the Big Horn's will be presented at tonight's meeting, which will be at 7 pm at the Sheridan Regional office on East 5th Street.

SHERIDAN RECREATION DISTRICT BOARD TO HOLD SPECIAL MEETING TONIGHT - At their December meeting last week the Sheridan Recreation District Board agreed to hold a special meeting tonight to hammer out some pressing issues. Sheridan Recreation District Executive Director Richard Wright explains the reason for the special meeting: Audio. Although youth baseball will be the dominating issue at the meeting, Wright explains that it won't be the only one: Audio. Tonight's special Rec. Board meeting is at 6 o'clock at the Sheridan Recreation District/Old Highland Park School building.

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW HIGHLIGHTS APRIL - With March '07 going out like a lion, how did April come in?  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson lets us know in her 2007 Year In Review: Audio.

 

 

Monday, December 17, 2007

THE POWER WAS OUT – WHAT HAPPENED? The cause is still not known about what happened on Saturday as the lights went out over a significant portion of the city of Sheridan. Reporter Kate Fetterly with more: Audio.   For Power Outages, Call 1-800-638-3278 for Montana Dakota Utilities Customers.

THREE MORE POLICE OFFICERS ADDED TO SHERIDAN FORCE - Sheridan has added an additional three officers to the police force this morning. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey, along with Officers from the Sheridan PD welcomed 3 new faces to the force. The three new PD are Adam Belthazor of East Bethel, Minnesota; Paul Pluger of Muskegon, Michigan; and a Sheridan resident for the past 9 years, Sam Damon. Sheridan PD Sergeant Travis Koltiska discusses the long road to becoming a Sheridan Poilce Officer: Audio . What's the next step for the new officers? Audio . The three new officers bring Sheridan's police force to a total of 32 officers. These new additions are going to be general patrol officers. Tomorrow, we'll hear a little more about the three new officers who have joined the Sheridan PD.

 FIRE ON METZ ROAD DESTROYS BARN SATURDAY NIGHT - Big Horn Fire Rescue reported to a structure fire at 6 pm on Saturday evening. The Barn was located on Metz road between Big Horn and Sheridan. Sheridan Fire Rescue Fire Marshall Brian Songer explains more: Audio. Fire Marshal Songer said that the fire spread quickly: Audio. He comments that Big Horn Fire Rescue was able to respond quickly: Audio. No animals were hurt in the fire. Songer said that Sheridan Fire Rescue and Big Horn Fire Rescue were searching for the cause on Sunday morning, but that cause has yet to be determined. He expects an insurance company investigator to come up later this week to look  further into the cause. 

PROUD FATHER REFLECTS ON HIS SON'S ACCOMPLISHMENTS OVERSEAS - Too often the national media paints a grim picture of things, in particular what's going on in Iraq. Today we take a look at one local soldier's accomplishments, and hear from his father. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: Audio.

SHERIDAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE REPORTS ANOTHER CHECK SCAM - Sheridan County Sheriff Dave Hofmeier wants to alert the public of another check scam that's out there: Audio. The sheriff explains how the scam works from a company claiming to be the Atlantic Lottery Corporation: Audio. The sheriff says that the elderly are particular targets, and he urges people to never, ever cash these types of checks, even though they look authentic.  If you have any questions about mail you've received, take it to law enforcement to check for you. Click here for pdf file.

"ICE" CAN HELP EMERGENCY WORKERS WHO FIND YOUR CELL PHONE – AND WE'RE NOT TALKING DIAMONDS - In case of an emergency, you might want to put the letters "I-C-E" in front of your loved ones' names on your cell phone.The acronym stands for "In Case of Emergency," and the idea is to assist emergency workers in knowing who they can call in case you or a loved one are in an accident and can't communicate.ICE is not a formally adapted program just yet, as not every emergency worker has heard of it, but more people are catching on to the idea.Terry Dimon, director of trauma at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, has spent as much as 12 hours trying to track down family members.  Dimon said a lot of times emergency workers go through contacts on a victim's cell phone, and the ICE cue would give those workers a place to start.

CHRISTMAS CHOIR CONCERT SET FOR TOMORROW NIGHT AT SHS - Sheridan High School will be hosting their annual Christmas Choir Concert tomorrow afternoon at 1:30, and then again tomorrow evening at  7:00.  All the choir students will be performing a medley of Christmas songs. Sheridan High School Choir teacher, Ashley Lecholat explains why she would like to see more people attend the afternoon concert: Audio. The Christmas program will be held in the Sue Henry Auditorium at the high school. The choir will also be performing the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Lecholat gives more details on that: Audio. The concert is free and everyone is welcome to attend.

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW RE-CAPS THE MONTH OF MARCH - Throughout this work week, we're continuing our 2007 Year in Review with a look back at March through July.  Today, Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson remembers March, and a whole 'lotta snow: Audio.      

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL MEETS FOR THE FINAL TIME OF 2007 TONIGHT - Sheridan City Council will have their last regularly scheduled meeting of the year tonight, and while the agenda isn't a very big one, there are some pressing issues that council will need to address. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey says that development will be a big issue:Audio . Kinskey outlines a few more items of importance that will come before council:Audio. Tonight's City Council meeting is at 7o'clock and will take place on the 3rd floor of City Hall in Council Chambers. The meeting is open to the public and if you can't make it to City Hall, we will have the live broadcast for you on AM-1410 KWYO.

 

Sunday, December 16, 2007

COUNTY CONVENTIONS INFORMATIONAL MEETING HELD YESTERDAY - About 40 Sheridan County Republicans attended a meeting yesterday to take the first step in selecting delegates to attend the Republican National Convention in Saint Paul, Minnesota next September. Sheridan County Republican Chairman Jim Craig explains all about what they did yesterday: Audio. Sheridan Counties' 26 precincts will be represented at the January 5th Sheridan County Convention where a total of up to 74 delegates can cast a vote for the delegate who represents a particular presidential candidate. There are going to be 12 delegates from Wyoming who are heading to the Republican National Convention next September.

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL MEETS FOR THE FINAL TIME OF 2007 TOMORROW NIGHT - Sheridan City Council will have their last regularly scheduled meeting of the year tomorrow night and while the agenda isn't a very big one, there are some pressing issues that council will need to address. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey says that development will be a big issue: Audio. Kinskey outlines a few more items of importance that will come before council: Audio. Monday's City Council meeting is at 7 o'clock and will take place on the 3rd floor of City Hall in Council Chambers. The meeting is open to the public and if you can't make it to City Hall, we will have the live broadcast for you on AM-1410 KWYO.

RANCHESTER- DAYTON CELEBRATIONS A WONDERFUL TIME FOR ALL - The towns of Dayton and Ranchester came alive for their respective community Holiday celebrations this weekend. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details. Audio Video of Center recycling

WINTER SHOOTOUT BRINGS MANY TO DOWNTOWN SHERIDAN SHOPS - The Sheridan Travel and Tourism, Sheridan Recreation District  and the Holiday Inn co-sponsored the 2007 Winter shootout that's taking place this weekend. Downtown merchants saw a good share of the some 2,000 people visit their stores, with X mas lists in hand. Downtown Sheridan Merchant, Linda Fauth of Crazy Woman Trading Co., gives this comment about the turnout: Audio. Winter shootout aside, Downtown Sheridan Association Executive Director Roger Bent says that it's been a pretty busy year for the downtown merchants regardless: Audio. The winter shootout brings non-stop basketball to Sheridan on annual basis just before the holidays. You can have a look at the action through today if you stop by Sheridan High School, Sheridan Junior High, and Sheridan College.

FLIGHT NUMBERS OUT OF YELLOWSTONE DOWN SLIGHTLY COMPARED TO LAST YEAR - The Yellowstone Regional Airport saw a decrease in the numbers of passengers compared to last year. November boardings were down 3 percent over the same month in 2006.  United Airlines flights decreased by 18 percent, but Delta Airlines saw a 9 percent increase in passengers. Hank Coe, a member of the Cody/Yellowstone Air Service Organization, said he that he has compared flight prices at Cody and Billings, Montana. Coe said that the Cody flights Cody are significantly more expensive. He added that airfares at Yellowstone Regional need to come down or people are going to choose to drive to Billings to catch flights.

WYOMING MAN CHARGED FOLLOWING EXPLOSIVES THREAT - A Wyoming man has been indicted on a federal charge of threatening to destroy aircraft with an explosive, following a bomb threat aboard an Alaska Airlines flight in late November. Kirk Frederick Forest was arrested at Ted Stevens International Airport in Seattle, Washington, after he threatened to blow up the November 28th flight from Seattle to Anchorage, Alaska. Passengers say that the 38-year-old man paced up and down the aisles of the airplane, clutched a Bible and mumbled religious phrases before he made the bomb threat. A subsequent search by the FBI did not find any explosive materials. The plane was carrying 150 passengers.

 

Saturday, December 15, 2007

RANCHESTER CELEBRATION SET FOR LATER TODAY - “Deck the Halls” 2007 is Ranchester's Town Celebration for the 2007 holiday season. It's all happening at the all new Town Hall, adjacent to their municipal building in Ranchester. The Town Clerk, Terry Laya, tells what will be going on at the carnival and open house:Audio . Deck the halls starts bright and early at 9 am, and it's going to be cool to see a singing Santa, fireworks, as well as munch down a Free chili lunch. It's all taking place as they “Deck the NEW town hall”. If you are interested in more information about the event, you can call the Town of Ranchester @ 655-2283.

ROTARIANS DELIVER DICTIONARIES TO AREA 3RD GRADERS - The Sheridan Rotary Club handed out brand new dictionaries to all third grade students this past week. Rotary member Carmen Rideout explains what they did this week: Audio. Laurie Graves, the 3rd grade teacher at Big Horn Elementary, explains how the program will benefit her class: Audio. And let's not forget the students! Olivia, a Big Horn Elementary third grader, offers this opinion:Audio . She referred to a coin, which offered the rotary club's values. Students were each given a coin along with the dictionaries. All 3rd  grade students in Sheridan County received the dictionaries, which were hardcover, colorful and bright, and can be used until the students are in. The donation of about 360 dictionaries was sponsored by Valley Motor Leasing, Wilcox Title and Abstract, and First Federal savings bank. They all gave about a thousand dollars each to the cause. 

HOW TO HAVE A FUN AND SAFE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION - The holiday season is a time to celebrate with friends, family and coworkers. While having alcohol at parties can enhance the holiday experience, it also can place you and others at risk if drinking gets out of hand, says Lena Edmunds, University of Wyoming AWARE Program coordinator:Audio . Edmunds says that if you plan on drinking at holiday parties, the best bet is to drink in moderation and to never get behind the wheel if you do happen to have one to many.

 

Friday, December 14, 2007

REPUBLICAN COUNTY CAUCUS TO BE HELD TOMORROW IN SHERIDAN - Information from Jim Craig, Chairman of Sheridan County Republicans

County Causcus

  • Tomorrow: They'll form Platform and resolution committees which will make a presentation on January 5th.
  • Each precincts will select a delegate to attend January 5th conventions.
  • Registered republicans (only)are encouraged / invited to attend
  • Break down into each precinct
  • Delegates can voice opinion on candidates
  • Delegates voice opinions on thoughts and opinions
  • “grass roots part of political process”
  • Elections office provides the list, credentials committee checks out.
  • Speak to election office – Brenda
  • Go to elections office (today is deadline)
  • Take a couple of hours.
  • Located at the Joe and Arlene Watt Agricultural Center, 9 am Saturday.

COLLEGE ACCEPTS A GIFT, AND GIVES A GIFT - In a special ceremony this morning, the Sheridan College Board of Trustees accepted a huge gift from the Whitney Benefits Foundation. Board member Walter Wragge explains: Audio. He continues, explaining how the SEEDA board will accept that generous gift: Audio. Wragge details some information about the property: Audio. The Sheridan Economic and Education Development Authority is set to meet at the Sheridan College Board room in the Whitney Building at 5:30 on Tuesday night. The public is welcomed to attend.

CITY OF SHERIDAN PRESENTS 2008 CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS - First in a series - The City of Sheridan Public Works, Engineers, and Utilities departments presented the 2008 Capital Construction Projects in a special session yesterday. Reporter Kate Fetterly details the information: Audio.      

BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS APPROVES TWO VARIANCES - The City of Sheridan Board of Adjustments held their last meeting of the year last night, and approved two variation requests. The first involved the Child Development Center about their location in the old Highland Park School, and Executive Director Sandy O'Dell explains their situation: Audio. O'Dell said that in the mean time, they were allowed to use the property, and adds her comment about the board approved conditional use permit: Audio. In one more item of business, the board heard from Land Surveyor Bill Pugh of Centennial Collaborative: Audio. The property to which he referred is located at 879 Arlington Boulevard, and will allow for a new home and attached garage to be placed on the lot. The Board of Adjustments is comprised of five members, who are scheduled to meet once a month.

WYOMING GIRLS SCHOOL BAZAAR - A ONCE A YEAR OPPORTUNITY - Yesterday, in a very special once-a-year event, the Sheridan Kiwanis Club joined the Buffalo and Gillette Kiwanis clubs at the Wyoming Girls School for their annual Bazaar, presentation, and luncheon. Girls School Superintendant Clark Fairbanks took a moment to speak with Reporter Kate Fetterly: Audio

DSA RECIEVES GRANT FOR STREAM RESTORATION PROJECT - The Wyoming Wildlife Natural Resource and Trust has granted seventy-five-thousand dollars to the Downtown Sheridan Association for future enhancement of stream restoration in Sheridan. DSA Executive Director Roger Bent on how the money will be applied: Audio. Bent said that they will be making an application for that permit in the next few months. Bent explains just how important this grant is to making stream restoration in downtown Sheridan a reality: Audio. The City of Sheridan is the owner of the stream through the park and will continue to be an active supporter and partner in this endeavor. Bent said that work could begin as early as spring of 2008 depending on when the permit is available from the Army Corps of Engineers.

SHERIDAN COUNTY FAIRBOARD MOVES FORWARD ON A NUMBER OF FACILITY PROJECTS - The Sheridan County Fair Association Board of Trustees met last night and covered everything from a new shop heater to the status of      H-K-M's survey of the Fairgrounds. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: Audio

OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW REFLECTS UPON FEBRUARY - Each business day leading up to the new year, we'll reflect upon 2007.  Today, Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson reviews February: Audio.

TOM O LEARY ON SHERIDAN PATHWAYS PROJECTS SET FOR NEXT SUMMER - The Sheridan Pathways System received 15-hundred dollars from the Sheridan WalMart in a ceremony this past Friday. In this story, we'll tell you how those funds will be used for projects starting next year. Project Manager Tom O'Leary explains what those projects are: Audio. The 11th Street underpass will cost about 75-thousand dollars, while the Trail End project will cost almost 300-thousand dollars.  Funds for the pathways originally came from fundraising, but O'Leary says that is different now: Audio. The Sheridan Pathways System has completed a lot of pathways around Sheridan, but still has a long way to go, as O'Leary tells us: Audio. The Master Plan for the projects scheduled for last year was drawn up in May of this year.

HOLIDAY CONCERT AT SHS ON SUNDAY - The Sheridan College Department of Music is presenting a free public winter concert this Sunday starting at 7 pm in the Sue Henry Auditorium at Sheridan High School. The College Jazz Band and the Community Symphonic Band will each play a variety of music under the direction of Dr. David Knutson (pronounced k-newt-sun), Director of the Sheridan College Jazz Band.  Knutson gives a preview of what the Jazz Band will play: Audio. And if you're looking for Christmas music, Knutson says the Symphonic Band has that covered: Audio. Knutson adds that there should not be any problems with seating, but says he would like to see a lot of people from the community support their efforts.

 

Thursday, December 13, 2007

CITY OF SHERIDAN WELCOMES NEW (ALMOST) BALER TO RECYCLING CENTER - The City of Sheridan Recycling Center is closed today and tomorrow while an exciting event takes place.  City Solid Waste Manager, Charles Martineau explains: . . Martineau says the City purchased the baler from the City of Bozeman and because it isn't new, Sheridan was able to get it for just over 50-thousand dollars, including delivery from Montana to here.  A new baler costs well over 100K: . . Charles says that the old baler his group used to use took about four workers an average of nearly four hours to load and compact one bale.  With this new baler, the exact opposite will occur -- one worker will be able to bale four bales in one hour.  Will they only be recycling cardboard? . . Martineau says the Recycling Center should be back up and running next Monday, December 17th, and he anticipates the baler to be fully-functional by the end of the month. Video of City of Sheridan crews prepare conveyor belt of new baler for installation. The recycling center is closed until Monday, Dec. 17, 2007. recycling

SHERIDAN AREA WATER SUPPLY JOINT POWERS BOARD DISCUSSES FEES AND AUDIT REPORT - The Sheridan Area Water Supply Joint Powers Board held a busy meeting last night at Sheridan City Hall. Reporter Kate Fetterly was there and has the details: Audio.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MONTHLY BUSINESS LUNCHEON WRAP-UP - The Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce honored area business men and women in their 10th Annual Business Awards program at the Business and Bites monthly luncheon yesterday. Reporter Kate Fetterly was there and has the details: Audio.   

BARRASSO PUSHES FOR LEGISLATION THAT WOULD DISCOURAGE STATES FROM ISSUING DRIVER LICENSES TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS - In mid-November, U.S. Senator from Wyoming, John Barrasso, introduced legislation that would make it tougher for illegal immigrants on a state by state basis to obtain driver's licenses. Wednesday on the floor of the Senate, Barrasso explained to his colleagues just what his bill would mean if passed: Audio. Barrasso also voiced his disdain towards the Senate for dragging its feet on this particular piece of legislation: Audio. Opponents blocked the Senator's unanimous consent request to pass the bill. Barrasso said that he's disappointed that some would rather not debate the issue and are not willing to vote on it, but that he would continue his push for immigration legislation despite those roadblocks.

STATE EMPLOYEES COULD BE CHARGED RETIREMENT COSTS - State workers may be forced to start paying a portion of the cost of their retirement benefits if some legislators have their way.  Members of the Joint Appropriations Committee on Wednesday agreed to ask the Management Council for authorization to push legislation on the issue in the coming budget session.Legislation could call for state workers to pay 3 percent ormore of their salaries into the state retirement program to covercost of living increases to the state's roughly 18,000 retirees.Government now covers all retirement contributions for nearlyall Wyoming public employees.  State retirees have seen only 1 percent annual cost of living increases in recent years.The state retirement board has asked the state to put up 68-million over the next two years to increase retirement payments tothe state's retirees by 2 percent a year. Governor Dave Freudenthal has said he wants the Legislature toput up 100-thousand dollars for a study on the issue.

NEW REPORT LISTS WYOMING AS A POLLUTION POWERHOUSE - Wyoming may not be big on population, but it is big on producing its share of greenhouse gas pollution, according to a new report from the National Environmental Trust. The report indicates that Wyoming emits pollution equal to sixty-nine developing countries that are home to more than 350-million people, a large number considering there are only about 510-thousand residents in the state.Report author, Peter Altman with the National Environmental Trust, says the United States is disproportionately affecting the climate of the world, and it's time to start taking responsibility: Audio. Altman feels that changing energy policies and reducing greenhouse gas pollution should be seen as a positive economic move, not a negative one: Audio.Altman pointed to neighboring Montana as a state leading the way in renewable energy standards and hopes that Wyoming will follow suit, instead of settling on the belief that climate change isn't caused by humans.

HOLIDAY SEASON HIATUS CONTINUES TONIGHT IN DOWNTOWN SHERIDAN - Window shoppers in downtown Sheridan this evening are in for a real treat ... literally. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter explains: Audio.    

WE BEGIN OUR SHERIDAN MEDIA YEAR-IN-REVIEW WITH A LOOK AT JANUARY - It seems the older we get, the faster time flies.  It's already time to begin our Year in Review, and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson starts with – what else?  January:Audio.

 

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

SHERIDAN AREA WATER SUPPLY JOINT POWERS BOARD TO MEET TONIGHT - The Sheridan Area Water Supply Joint Powers board or SAWS will meet tonight and will consider a request from developers of the proposed Saddle View Meadows Subdivision on Bird Farm Road. SAWS Administrator Jay Stender with the details: Audio. An item under new business will address annexation and how SAWS will handle the issue in the future: Audio Other agenda items that will be considered under new business are an easement agreement with the airport regarding a pump station; Royal Elk, Woodland Park Subdivision petition on rates; and an audit report from Dooley and Jelly. The SAWS board meeting will be this evening at 5 on the 3rd floor of Sheridan's City Hall in Council Chambers and is open to the public.

SHERIDAN RECREATION DISTRICT BOARD DISCUSSES YOUTH BASEBALL - The Sheridan Recreation District Board of Trustees met for their December meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: Audio

TWO FULL DAYS OF BASKETBALL THIS WEEKEND AS THE WINTER SHOOTOUT WILL TAKE PLACE IN SHERIDAN - The Sheridan Recreation/Holiday Inn annual Winter Shootout will take place over the weekend in Sheridan and as Tournament Director Whitey Wells points out, there'll be plenty of basketball Saturday and Sunday:Audio. Wells fills us in on just where all this basketball will be taking place: Audio. The Sheridan Recreation District, the Holiday Inn and Sheridan Travel and Tourism all have a part in sponsoring the Winter Shootout, which will take place all day this Saturday and Sunday.

POLICE PRESENTED NEEDS ASSESSMENT AT CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION - The Sheridan City Council heard a needs assessment presentation from the Sheridan Police Department about exploring infrastructure options at their work session earlier this week. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: Audio

CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION NUMBER TWO - FEE SUBSIDIES - Sheridan's City Council held a second work session this week, and it involved several city department heads. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: Audio.

AN OLD STORAGE ROOM TURNS INTO A CLASSROOM AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE - There used to be a room in the Whitney Building at Sheridan College that held old sheet music, old pianos, and other odds and ends.  Now, it's become a classroom where students can practice piano together.  Dr. Chris Erickson, a Music Instructor at Sheridan College, is behind this transformation.  Erickson says that there used to be a similar classroom at the college: Audio. There are now seven hi-tech digital piano stations in the classroom, with two acoustic pianos and a master station which controls the other stations.  Erickson adds that this will ultimately add to the classroom experience: Audio. Sheridan College has eight full-time music majors, and many non-music majors that take private lessons.  Erickson adds that the music majors are encouraged to take four semesters of piano to prepare them to pass a Piano Proficiency test required to obtain a Bachelor's degree. 

NEW CITY STREET LIGHTS BLINKING BRIGHT RED & GREEN - There are new street lights going up at the intersection of Highland and Loucks throughout this week and next week.  And throughout the installation process, there will be some closures, says HKM Engineering Staff Engineer, Matt Ruder:Audio. The poles were delivered on Monday, and the contractor, Electrofab, Inc., began installation yesterday.  The signals will not be operational right after installation however, as Ruder explains: Audio. Completion is scheduled for December 21st, with weather permitting.   A stop sign will remain on Highland until the lights are turned on to flash mode in January.  For a seven-day period in January, the three signals will flash red, and the intersection will operate as a three-way stop.  After that, the signals will be turned on and function similar to other signalized intersections in Sheridan. The City of Sheridan, HKM and Electrofab all request your patience in dealing with the pending delays, and again, tomorrow morning, the intersection will twice be closed to all traffic, allowing the contractor to safely install the mast arms. If you have questions, call Matt Ruder with HKM:  (307) 672-9006 or City Engineer Joe Schoen:  (307) 674-6483.

OPEN HOUSE A SUCCESS FOR TRAIL END AND PREPARATION FOR AN ELEGANT RAFFLE BEGINS - The Holiday Open House took place at the Trail End State Historic Site last weekend, and Trail End Director Cynde Georgen calls the event a success: Audio. The Holiday Open House is held every year during the first full weekend in December.  And with the coming of 2008 also comes a milestone for the Historic Site.  The Trail End Guild is holding a raffle in celebration of 100 years since construction began on the Kendrick Mansion.  The “Evening of Elegance”  raffle is a fund raiser for the Trail End Guild, and will include a fun-filled grand prize, Georgen details: Audio. The grand prize winner also gets to have 7 guests accompany them for the evening.  There are 100 raffle tickets available at $100 each.  Georgen says that every ticket winner will win something, but there is only one grand prize, which is worth over $1,000.  For information on obtaining raffle tickets, or for more information on the raffle itself, call the Trail End State Historic Site: 674-4589.

 

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

SCHOOL DISTRICT TWO GETS RESULTS OF YOUTH RISK BEHAVIOR SURVEY - At Monday night's Sheridan County District Two School Board meeting the results were unveiled of the youth risk behavior survey by Assistant Superintendent Tom Sachse. The survey covered High School and Junior high school students in District Two. Some of the findings were a little disturbing as it showed that sexual activity along with alcohol and drug use are happening at an earlier age. District Two Superintendent Craig Dougherty: Audio. Dougherty points out that the District has been very proactive in their approach to alleviate this growing trend: Audio. Dougherty said that teachers, faculty and staff are always there to lend their support, but in the end it comes down to what's going on at home: Audio. Plans are for the district Wellness Committee to meet in early January to review the data from the survey and create action plans with other community groups to try and reduce high-risk behaviors among students in District Two.

CITY OF SHERIDAN PLANNING COMMISSION APPROVES PRELIMINARY PLAT - The City of Sheridan Planning Commission met last night, and approved the Preliminary Plat of the 65-acre Woodland Park Subdivision. Reporter Kate Fetterly was there and has the details: Audio.

SHERIDAN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 BOARD ADOPTS POLICIES AND HOLDS ELECTION OF OFFICERS - The Sheridan County School District Two Board of Trustees met for their monthly meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: Audio.

DAYTON TOWN COUNCIL AND FROZEN PIPES - The Dayton Town Council held their only December meeting last night, and had only one agenda item. They discussed allowing Dayton residents the opportunity to allow water to drip if they have had an issue in the past with water pipes freezing as a result of the winter chill. Dayton residents can call the Town Hall to get on a list for the water bill adjustment for the pipe freezing allowance.

SHERIDAN'S COURTHOUSE HAS RECEIVED EQUIPMENT UPGRADES - The lines of communication have improved – literally – at the Sheridan County Courthouse, as upgrades with their phone system were installed over the weekend.  “Kevin” is the Voice and Data Systems Lead Technician with Collins Communication in Gillette, and he tells us what his group did: Audio. The main upgrade feature Courthouse employees will enjoy is Caller I.D., but Kevin says that it wasn't just a simple switch:Audio. While the new phone system will, for the caller, provide enhanced customer service, Kevin says it's really the employees who will benefit the most: Audio. A.C.T. is the local provider for the new phone system.

WEEKLY POLL QUESTION ASKS YOUR THOUGHTS ON COACH JOE GLENN - University of Wyoming Football Coach Joe Glenn has a record of 26-33 in five seasons at UW. Two days after the Cowboys finished this season 5-7, Glenn fired his offensive coordinator. Two weeks ago, University President Tom Buchannan gave Coach Glenn a public vote of confidence. This week’s poll question at sheridanmedia.com asks: Should the 2008 Cowboy Football season be Glenn’s last with the Cowboys if the team doesn’t have a winning record? Audio. Let us know what you think. Answer this week’s question and leave a comment in our forum. Then, be sure to listen for the results on open line Friday morning at 9 o’clock on news / talk 930 KROE.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DECEMBER NEWS - The Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce has a lot of events coming up this month and next month.  First, Executive Director Janelle Martinsen reminds everyone about the Christmas Stroll buttons: Audio. And it's again time for Leadership Sheridan County, with applications due by December 31st.  The cost is $375, which covers the whole 8-month program, including the day at the Legislature in Cheyenne in February, hotel expenses in Cheyenne, and any meals served at all the learning modules.  The Legislative Forum will take place on January 29th and 30th, and Martinsen explains what goes on there: Audio. Spots for the forum also fill up fast, so call the Chamber to set up a time. Martinsen describes what kind of commitment the Leadership program requires: Audio.Martinsen says you shouldn't delay if you want to apply for Leadership Sheridan County, because there's only room for 20 people. In other Chamber news --  there is a new contest going on for photos to put into the Chamber membership plaques, Martinsen tells us: Audio. Martinsen adds that the photos should represent Sheridan County, be sizable to a 3-inch by 5-inch photo, and not be copyrighted. Entries are due by January 15th, 2008.  For more information on any of these events, call the Chamber of Commerce: 672-2485.

GIANT” GEYSER ERUPTS BACK TO LIFE - Even by Yellowstone National Park standards, Giant Geyser is a show-stopper. But Giant is fickle. It's been known to go months, even longer than a year, without erupting before suddenly coming back to life. Located in the Upper Geyser Basin along the Firehole River, Giant has been erupting over the past two years more frequently than seen in many decades.  In fact, Giant has been erupting roughly every five to eight days, with startled visitors treated to eruptions 200 feet or higher. Members of the Washburn expedition named Giant. It was named on the same day - Sept. 18, 1870 - as Old Faithful.

 

Monday, December 10, 2007

SHERIDAN YOUTH RECEIVES NOMINATION FROM SENATOR MIKE ENZI - U.S. Senator Mike Enzi of Wyoming recently nominated a Sheridan native for a 2008 service academy appointment.  19-year-old Andrew Ferries received nominations and in a phone interview, he talks about the nomination: Audio. Ferries had to go through an application process, whereby he applied to the schools and to Enzi.  Once he received the senator's nomination, it is now up to either the Merchant Marine Academy or the Air Force Academy to accept him. So what will acceptance into one of the academies mean to Ferries? Audio. Ferries, whose brother graduated from the Air Force Academy and is now a Navy helicopter pilot, would ultimately like to also attend Air Force, with a dream of flying as well.

TODAY IS WYOMING HISTORY DAY, AND WE HAVE A WOMAN TO THANK FOR IT - The Wyoming State Historical Society joins with students of Wyoming history everywhere in celebrating “Wyoming Day” today.On this date in 1869, Territorial Governor John Campbell approved the first law in United States history explicitly granting women the right to vote.  Commemorated in later years as Wyoming Day, the event signified many firsts for women in the Equality State.Credit often goes to Esther Hobart Morris as the one person who embraced the women's rights movement in general, and who, as a resident of South Pass City, Wyoming, encouraged legislators to support a woman suffrage bill.   A statue of Morris graces the front walk of the state capitol building in Cheyenne, with a replica standing in Statuary Hall in the United States Capitol in Washington D.C.As for the designation of Wyoming Day, state statute specially notes that this day shall be observed in schools, clubs and similar groups by appropriate exercises commemorating the history of the territory and state, and the lives of its pioneers.To learn more about the day, and other Wyoming Historical Society projects, visit www.wyshs.org .   

BIG HORN COUNTRY CHRISTMAS STROLL WAS FUN FOR ALL - All eyes were on the sleepy little town of Big Horn for their Country Christmas Stroll this past Saturday. Reporter Kate Fetterly was there and has the details: Audio.

SHERIDAN COUNTY SHERIFF'S K-9 GRADUATES AT TOP OF HIS CLASS - The Sheridan County Sheriff's Office has recently acquired a new addition to their force, a K-9 by the name of Eros.  Deputy Mike Rogers returned on Friday after completing a ten week class with Eros, a two-year-old Belgian Malinois . Eros came from Europe after Roger's former K-9 Ronnie retired in September. Both Rogers and Eros went to Jackson to train, and Rogers explains what happens during the training: Audio. Eros will use what he learned in the class while serving the Sheriff's Office, Rogers says: Audio. Rogers adds that the training isn't over: Audio. As long as Eros stays healthy, the Sheriff's Office hopes to keep him working for seven years.  Eros lives with Rogers at home along with Ronnie.

SHERIDAN COUNTY DISTRICT TWO BOARD OF TRUSTEES TO MEET TONIGHT - The Sheridan County School District Two Board of Trustees will meet for their regularly scheduled meeting tonight. Under old business, the board will consider approval of polices and hear an update from Superintendent Craig Dougherty on the capital construction projects going on in the district. The board will also consider a number of items under new business, including adoption of financial resolutions and approval of routes and non-public road travel.  They'll also consider a request to advertise to bid a number of projects.As is the case at every District Two meeting, there will be reports from Superintendent Dougherty, site administration and staff. The board also plans to recognize Molly Kinsey's accomplishment of Teacher of the Year. The School District Two Board meeting will be at 6 o'clock tonight in the central office board room and is open to the public.

THE HOLIDAYS CAN POSE A THREAT TO OUR CURIOUS PETS -- WE'LL LET YOU KNOW OF WHAT TO BE AWARE - The holidays are a busy time for just about everybody, and that includes your pets. But the holidays can actually be a dangerous time for the little critters as well. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more: Audio. Click here (part 1) and Click here (part 2) for pdf file of toxic holiday plants from the Dog & Cat Shelter

CANDY CANE BRIGADE HIT THE STREETS FOR SHOPPERS IN SHERIDAN'S DOWNTOWN - An annual event in Sheridan's Downtown was a ton of fun for everyone. Mayor Dave Kinskey and his wife, Donna, were this week's  Candy Cane Brigade. Reporter Kate Fetterly was on their trail, snapping pictures and laughing along with them, and has this report: Audio.

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday, December 09, 2007

ONE MORE DAY TO CATCH THE TRAIL END OPEN HOUSE! - Today is your last chance to attend the annual Holiday Open House at the Trail End State Historic Site from 4 to 7 pm tonight.  There are decorations throughout the mansion, along with some live music and good food for all in attendance.  Admission to the Open House is one dollar for adults and is free for children accompanied by an adult.  Cynde Georgen, Director of the Trail End Historic Site, mentions that you can get in free if you attend the “Christmas at the Carriage House” by bringing your ticket stub. Georgen also tells us about the traditional food served up in the mansion's historic kitchen:Audio. There will be a few musicians there as well, and Georgen gives us the rundown for the night: Audio. This is also the last chance to see the current exhibit on display before the mansion closes for the year, and to get to see a preview of next year's exhibit as well: Audio. Trail End will be closed from December 15th to February 29th of 2008.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE TO BE HELD TODAY - The Hospice of the Big Horn's Annual Celebration of Life is being held in the lobby of the patient wing at Sheridan Memorial Hospital today starting at 3 pm.  Hospice Worker Cindy Baker explains what happens at the Celebration: Audio. The Celebration is open to the public, and Baker says that other people can light a candle as well: Audio. Baker adds that the event is good for the Hospice workers too: Audio. Baker tells us that the Holidays are a good time for this Celebration, so that families who have lost a loved one in Hospice can be with other people and maybe feel more in the Holiday Spirit.  This is the 12th year that the Hospice of the Big Horns has held this event.

COMMUNITY COOPERATION NEEDED IN WYOMING - Congress has recently started scrutinizing oil and gas industry exemptions from federal laws designed to protect people from exposure to toxic substance. Recently a Wyomingite had a chance to ask presidential candidates about the issue. Powder River Basin Resource Council Organizer Deb Thomas says that after chatting with the candidates she realized that many of them felt the same way: Audio. Thomas points out that controversies over oil and gas development in Wyoming run deep: Audio. Thomas hopes that state citizens start playing a larger role community, state and national politics to make a change.

POLICE FOOD DRIVE HELD THIS WEEKEND - The Sheridan Police department held the second weekend of their 2007 Christmas Food and Toy drive yesterday. Reporter Kate Fetterly caught up with Police Chief Mike Card, Dispatcher Michelle Cunningham and has this report: Audio.

 

Saterday, December 08, 2007

POSSIBILITY OF SOME SIGNIFIGANT SNOWFALL POSSIBLE FOR MUCH OF THE REGION TODAY – A winter storm that started out in Utah and worked it's way up through the southern part of Wyoming yesterday has made it's presence felt in our neck of the woods. Meteorologist Dan Moore with the National Weather Service in Billings explains how much of the white stuff we could get throughout today: Audio. Moore says the high winds that usually accompany these types of storm fronts will be pretty much non-existent: Audio.  However, Dan said that we can expect it to be very cold for the weekend as highs will range in the mid to upper teens for both today and tomorrow and lows tonight may reach below zero.

SHERIDAN HAS A NEW FRIEND FROM THE WILD SIDE - There is a new baby buffalo at the Kendrick Park Elk Pasture. The buffalo, which is thought to have been born last weekend, came as a surprise to the groundskeepers, as last year there were not any new births. Senior grounds maintenance worker Meredith Ickler explains how they plan to take care of the new baby buffalo as well as the elk: Audio. Currently the pasture has five elk and three buffalo. The buffalo are owned by the city, while the Game and Fish Department own the elk. The pasture is located off Highland Avenue overlooking Kendrick Park. Ickler goes on to explain why people should come out to see this new addition: Audio. The gender of the baby buffalo is unknown at this time. Video of Buffalo. Bufffalo

INTERACT CLUB'S ANNUAL SING AND SERVE - Sheridan High School's Interact Club will be serving a dinner at the Community Shelter tomorrow evening. The Community Shelter is run by the Volunteers of America, who will be providing meals for those in need. The members of Interact Club, however, will be serving the meals to the residents of the shelter. Tara Pilch who is the President of Interact tells more about the club and its mission: Audio. Tara's mother, Kathleen Pilch, who happens to be the sponsor of Interact, explains what the Sing and Serve is all about: Audio. The Community Shelter is located on the grounds of the Sheridan V.A., in building number 24. The dinner will start at 6:00 pm. And for anyone interested in joining Interact Club, their meetings are at 8:00am, Thursday mornings in the business wing at the high school.

BIG HORN STROLL IS GOING ON TODAY, FREE TRANSPORTATION OFFERED - “A Country Christmas in Big Horn” is this year's theme for the annual Big Horn Stroll Christmas celebration that's going on later today. Susan Rhodes with the Canyon Ranch Guide Shack tells us how the event got its start: Audio. Rhodes says that transportation will be provided for those not wanting to drive out to Big Horn:Audio . And as Susan points out, downtown Big Horn won't be the only destination you'll want to check out: Audio. Rhodes also said that the fat man in the red suit will be on hand at the Big Horn Fire Hall handing out candy and gifts for the little ones. “A Country Christmas in Big Horn” will run from 10 am to 2 pm today and everyone is welcome to attend.

 

Friday, December 07, 2007

A CORRECTION...... Earlier this week, we reported to you about the cause of the Amsden Creek Road Fire located 6 miles from Dayton. Reporter Kate Fetterly explains a correction: Audio.     

MAYOR ANNOUNCES FUNDS CEREMONY AT WALMART TODAY- The Sheridan Pathways System received a funding boost in the amount of 15 hundred dollars from the Sheridan Walmart in a special ceremony this morning. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey met with Store Manager Ron Moore and Claims Associate Kae Kethman to receive the check in a ceremony during the store's daily shift  meeting.Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey talks with reporter Kate Fetterly about the gift:Audio. In order to be able to give the money away, Walmart has a special program. Walmart's Kae Kethman elaborates:Audio. Kethman continues, explaining how to get ahold of the funds:  Audio. Mayor Kinskey offers this gratitude: Audio. The Pathways System in Sheridan is designated for pedestrian and bicycle use.

OVERLOADED ELECTRICAL WIRING CAUSES FIRE IN SHERIDAN EARLY THIS MORNING - The Sheridan Fire Rescue Department responded to a reported structure fire at 656 1/2 Marion Street this morning. The occupant of the home, Jason Baldwin, discovered the fire at approximately 1:30 a.m. and called 911. The fire was burning in the attic of the home and was beginning to burn into the living space. The fire was quickly extinguished by fire crews who accessed the attic from the living room and exterior of the home. According to Sheridan Fire Investigator Larry Grooms, the cause of the fire was determined to be an overload of the electrical wiring. The wiring in the attic overheated, causing the wood framing members and blown in cellulose insulation to ignite. The fire apparently smoldered for some time before the occupant discovered it. Sheridan Fire Rescue would like to remind homeowners to avoid putting excessive loads on the electrical service in their homes. Typically, an overloaded circuit will cause a weak connection in the wiring system to heat over time, potentially resulting in a fire. During the Christmas season, their is a tendency to put a higher load than normal on house wiring. Remember to follow the product manufacturer's recommendations and avoid the use of extension cords. A licensed electrician can evaluate your homes electrical service and recommend upgrades if necessary.Sheridan Fire Rescue would also like the public to know that they have smoke detectors available for free to anyone who needs one. The detectors can be picked up at the fire station, 151 South Scott Street. The detectors were funded by a grant from Wal-mart.

2ND ANNUAL “SHOP WITH A COP” BENEFIT INCREASES HELP TO CHILDREN - The first year was such a success, that Dan Lick and his staff at People Assistance Management, Inc. in Sheridan decided to hold a 2nd Annual Shop with a Cop benefit.  Dan details how the project works: Audio. Dan says that last year they'd raised enough money to invite 61 children and 91 took part.  This year, he says they're planning for 100 children, and at last night's fund-raising dinner, about 200 people participated.  The goal for this year? Audio. Not only does People Assistance Management help with this project, but they run the new Food Bank on the north end of Sheridan: Audio. To learn more about People Assistance call Dan Lick, Payee Assistance Management:  675-1140 or visit www.payeeassistance.org .

AML FUNDING ANNOUNCEMENT DISAPPOINTS MANY ELECTED OFFICIALS - The announcement Thursday from the federal Office of Surface Mining, that abandoned mine lands back payments to Wyoming will be distributed through a grant process, rather than in indirect payments, has been met with disappointment by everyone from Governor Freudenthal to Wyoming's delegation in Washington D.C. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details: Audio.

SHERIDAN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 1 PASSES ACCREDITATION PROCESS - Throughout this week, the Wyoming Department of Education has been visiting Sheridan County School District 1 to conduct the district's accreditation process, and Superintendent Sue Belish tells us the eight categories on which the district was evaluated: Audio. Of the 29 scores, Belish tells us, they received fourteen scores of 3, meaning that they met the requirements.  They received fifteen scores of “Exemplary”: Audio. Belish and the District 1 Board of Trustees are very proud of their faculty, staff and students, and especially proud of the Wyoming Department of Education's comment that District 1 can “serve as an example” to other districts around the state.

STUDENTS' FEELINGS ON A REVISION TO AN OLD POLICY - Recently Sheridan High School has updated their policy on missing homework, making the punishment more strict and constant. Instead of allowing teachers to deal with the kids who are missing assignments, it is now a school-wide policy that if a student has more than three missing assignments, they will have to attend a Saturday school. While Principal Dirlene Wheeler finds that this policy will help students to do better in school, the students themselves take on a different view. While covering this story, our intern, Sarah Turner, discovered that it was difficult to find any Sheridan High School students who were supportive of the new revisions.Sophomore Jessie Campbell explains why shes thinks the revisions won't help: Audio. While it is a well-known fact that kids dislike doing homework, Campbell believes that kids would be more likely to do their homework if the teachers could make learning more appealing to their students. Audio. As for the consequence, Saturday school is an opportunity for kids to do their homework. It is held in the high school library every Saturday from 9:00 am till noon. Campbell, however, feels that it is an unnecessary punishment, as kids who don't do their assignments will be ultimately punished anyway. Audio. While the debate over the revisions to this new policy are still a hot issue, for now, Saturday school is homework time at SHS.

FIREFIGHTERS TO HOLD MEETING IN CHEYENNE TODAY - The Federated Fire Fighters of Wyoming are holding their 2007 convention in Cheyenne today. Reporter Kate Fetterly explains more: Audio.     

JOINT HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING MADE HISTORY LAST NIGHT - Historical societies making history--it's not something that happens every day. And this time, not something that has ever happened, until last night at the Sheridan Holiday Inn. The Sheridan County Historical Society invited the Big Horn City Historical Society to it's annual holiday meeting for a presentation on the Willits-Garber Family. Outgoing Sheridan County Historical Society President, Linda Prill, talks  about the evening's presentation: Audio. The Sheridan County Historical Society has been a Chapter of the Wyoming State Historical Society since 1960. The Big Horn City Historical Society has been established since 1990. Big Horn City Historical Society President, Marvin Monroe, discusses the Big Horn turnout for the evening: Audio. There had been discussion that the next cooperative meeting be held in the summer months at the Big Horn Women's Club. That's where the Big Horn City Historical Society normally meets for a Sunday Potluck, normally on a Sunday near the end of the month.

WYOMING BUSINESS COUNCIL OK'S ELEVEN MILLION IN FUNDING FOR COUNTIES - The Wyoming Business Council Board of Directors met in Cheyenne Thursday to consider applications for Business Ready Community and Community Development Block Grants totaling eleven million dollars. Six of the seven Business Ready Community grants were approved and will now be forwarded to the State Loan and Investment Board with a recommendation from the WBC board to approve them. The SLIB board will meet in January for final decision on the recommendations.As far as the Community Development Block grants, in all, thirteen were awarded, including 300-hundred thousand dollars to Johnson County to build a facility that will be occupied by the Child Development Center Region Two. The other grant that was awarded to Johnson County was a 25-thousand dollar Planning Grant to conduct a feasibility study on redeveloping the Johnson County Fairgrounds. Business Council CEO Bob Jensen comments on the wide variety of applications that came before the board: Audio. Once again the Business Ready Community grants must be approved by the SLIB board in January; meanwhile the Community Development Block grants are a done deal, as they are a federally funded pass-through grant program from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

BIG HORN STROLL SET FOR TOMORROW AFTERNOON - Country Christmas in Big Horn is this year's theme for the annual Big Horn Stroll Christmas celebration. Susan Rhodes with the Canyon Ranch Guide Shack tells us how the event got its start: Audio. Rhodes says that transportation will be provided for those not wanting to drive out to Big Horn: Audio. And as Susan points out, downtown Big Horn won't be the only destination you'll want to check out: Audio. Rhodes also said that the fat man in the red suit will be on hand at the Big Horn Fire Hall handing out candy and gifts for the little ones. Country Christmas in Big Horn will run from 10 am to 2 pm tomorrow and everyone is welcome to attend.

TRAIL END OPEN HOUSE IS TODAY, RUNS THROUGH WEEKEND - The Trail End State Historic Site will be holding their annual Holiday Open House starting today from 4 to 7 pm, and also on Saturday and Sunday from 4 to 7.  There will be decorations throughout the mansion, along with some live music and good food for all in attendance. Admission to the Open House is one dollar for adults and is free for children accompanied by an adult.  Cynde Georgen, Director of the Trail End Historic Site, mentions that there is a way you can get in free: Audio. Georgen tells us about the traditional food served up in the mansion's historic kitchen: Audio. There will be many musicians there as well, and Georgen gives us the rundown: Audio. This is also the last chance to see the current exhibit “Independent of the Sun,” which shows the impact of electricity on an early 20th Century Sheridan.  Next year's exhibit, “Our Own Dear Babies,” will focus on the changing roles of children in society throughout the last 150 years.

 

Thursday, December 06, 2007

NEW EQUIPMENT AT THE LAW ENFORCEMENT CENTER - Back in 2005, when Police Chief Mike Card came on board as leader of the Sheridan Police Department, he'd asked for some information which the Records people were unable to provide.  Over the past two years, says the PD's Jenifer Schassetz: Audio. This past October, training began on the new program, and it was up and mostly running on November 26th.  Schassetz explains how the new system works: Audio. One person who will be using the new system is Police Dispatcher Kathy Baker: Audio. Schassetz says that as with anything, change can be difficult for some, but for the most part, the transition has been very successful – probably because the old system was fifteen years old, and a lot of technological advancements have been made since then.

TODAY'S SNOW STORM A PRECURSOR TO THE WEEKEND  - Just about 4 o'clock this morning, the predicted wind and snow began to move into the Sheridan County area, and Bill Rasch from the National Weather Service in Billings has the outlook for today: Audio. It won't end tomorrow morning, however, as Bill says there's quite a surge coming through into the weekend: Audio. With Wyoming being a change artist when it comes to weather patterns, however, Rasch says they'll be keeping an eye on the storm for our area tomorrow night and into Saturday.  You can be sure that Sheridan Media will have the latest weather, road and travel conditions, and you can also check for updates on our website, sheridanmedia.com

REVISIONS ON AN OLD POLICY AFFECT SHERIDAN HIGH STUDENTS - Sheridan High School's policy on missing homework has recently been updated. Before, students who had more than three missing assignments were subject to after-school detention, but now it is a Saturday school. Saturday school is held in the library every Saturday from 9:00 am to noon, and is an opportunity for kids to make up their missing assignments. Principal Dirlene Wheeler explains why the change: Audio. Students cannot have more than three missing assignments in all of their classes, not just per class. While teachers previously were the ones to deal with missing assignments, it is now a concern for everyone.  Wheeler explains why: Audio. Wheeler also says that they will be looking into positive ways to encourage students to do their homework in the future. But how do the students feel about this stricter punishment? Check back tomorrow for their side of the story.

CITY APPEALS BOARD RELEASES FINDINGS AFTER PUBLIC MEETING - The City of Sheridan International Code Board of Appeals has rendered it's decision following a public hearing last Friday. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details: Audio.

BURBOT PROBLEM CONTINUES TO GET WORSE AT FLAMING GORGE RESEVOIR - The Burbot problem at Flaming Gorge Reservoir near Green River continues to pose concerns for fisheries managers at the Game and Fish Department. The impact of the illegally introduced fish species could be wide ranging. Game and Fish Biologists recently finished up their second year of sampling for Burbot and early reports show that the numbers have almost doubled from last year. Game and Fish Green River Fisheries Biologist, Bill Wengert, is pleased with the preliminary findings: Audio. Another troubling aspect of this years findings are the size of the fish that were found: Audio. Wengert said that the Burbot are feeding on key forage to survive that the sport fish in the reservoir feed on.  Since chemical treatment of the fish at Flaming Gorge is impractical, it's up to anglers to mitigate Burbot numbers. The Game and Fish feels that the next few months will be crucial to controlling the problem as the fish tend to feed more in the winter time.

WYOMING BUSINESS COUNCIL MEETS TODAY AND WILL HAVE A NUMBER OF GRANTS UP FOR APPROVAL - The Wyoming Business Council's Board of Directors will meet in Cheyenne today to to consider funding applications for Business Ready Community and Community Development Block Grants totaling 11 million dollars. Among the many counties applying is Johnson County, which has two grant applications up for approval.The first is a request for three hundred thousand dollars to build a four-thousand square foot facility on land donated by the City of Buffalo. The facility will be occupied by the Child Development Region Two Center, which will provide early intervention and special education for children birth to six years old. CDBG Community Development Program Manager, Terry Koerwitz, explains why the facility is needed: Audio. The other application is for a twenty-five-thousand dollar planning grant to conduct a feasibility study and conceptual redevelopment of the Johnson County Fairgrounds. Program Manager Susan Flobeck tells us why they want to look at the possibility of the fairgrounds being a year-round facility: Audio. Flobeck said that the Johnson County Fair Board would partner with the UW and Johnson County Cooperative Extension Services, and that the Buffalo Chamber of Commerce would provide business development activities at the expanded facilities.

DOG AND CAT SHELTER TREES ARE UP AROUND TOWN - The Dog and Cat Shelter Trees, located at Sheridan area businesses, have ornaments on them of animals up for adoption at the shelter. Those wishing to do something nice for an animal during the holidays are invited to come and select a free  ornament. Dog and Cat Shelter Director Cel Hope explains: Audio. The trees are up now at CMS Pet Products, Pets 'N' Stuff, and the shelter. CMS and Pets 'N' Stuff both give a discount for gifts purchased for the shelter,when you bring in your ornament.  You can also give the gift of a pet. The Dog and Cat Shelter has gift certificates. Cel explains why they do the certificates instead of allowing people to pick out pets as gifts: Audio. The gift certificates are good for six months after the date that they have been purchased.

 

Wednesday, December 05, 2007

SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING, PART II - The Sheridan County Commissioners addressed several development related issues at their December meeting yesterday. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details: Audio

SHERIDAN SENIOR DRIVES PICK-UP TRUCK INTO SENIOR LIVING BUILDING - A Sheridan man drove his pickup truck into, and nearly all the way through, the Creekside Court Senior apartments yesterday afternoon. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: Audio.   

 WE HAVE THE ANSWER TO THE CAUSE OF MONDAY'S FIRE ON AMSDEN CREEK RANCH ROAD NEAR DAYTON - An Early Monday morning fire which destroyed two single family homes 6 miles west of Dayton, was apparently caused by an electric baseboard heater which ignited nearby combustible materials. The materials started a fire in the living room of one of the homes. That fire engulfed one home, as high winds spread the fire to a second home, as well as an attached carport and a pick-up truck. The homes and their contents were deemed a complete loss, but fortunately, no one was injured in the fire. In a statement issued by Sheridan Fire Marshall Brian Songer, Sheridan Fire/Rescue has responded to numerous calls related to fires involving baseboard heaters, under-cabinet heaters, and other similar appliances. The fire department urges homeowners to check appliances for recalls through the Consumer Products Safety Commission. The department notes that some appliances have been recalled due to known defects. Proper clearance from combustible materials can aid in preventing these types of fires. Check your appliances' manual for more information or visit www.cpsc.gov .

SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS HELD THEIR DECEMBER MEETING YESTERDAY      - The Sheridan County Commissioners approved and denied several important items related to development in Sheridan County. Sheridan Media's Kate Fetterly was there and has the details:   Audio.

SHERIDAN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 1 HOLDS SPECIAL BOARD MEETING - School District 1 Board of Trustees met for a special meeting yesterday, and Superintendent Sue Belish has the reason: Audio. If all that laundry list goes through, Belish says, they'll be able to use the future bus barn next summer. Also yesterday, Belish tells us: Audio. Interviews will continue today with students, faculty and staff, and tomorrow morning at 9, the WDE will report their findings and offer suggestions of improvement, as well as letting the District know what they're doing well.

SEVERAL DISTRICT 1 TEACHERS MEET NATION'S HIGHEST TEACHING STANDARDS - The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards has announced that four teachers from Sheridan County School District 1 have achieved National Board Certification for 2007. District 1 Superintendent Sue Belish tells us who the four are: Audio. The National Board Certification is a voluntary assessment program designed to recognize and reward great teachers for taking the initiative to make themselves better educators. Belish explains that certification doesn't come easy: Audio. So how doe Sue feel about this accomplishment? Audio. Belish added that she hopes more teachers in District 1 join the quest to become board certified, which in the end would only be a benefit to the students in the district.

RANCHESTER TOWN COUNCIL PASSES GARBAGE ORDINANCE - The Ranchester Town Council met last night.  Their new Town Hall will soon be ready for occupancy, after they install some fire fixtures and talk to the Fire Marshall.  New Grant Coordinator Melinda Johnson reported that, after speaking with representatives from Yellowstone National Park, the Town of Ranchester may be able to take over the Park's old street sweeper through a free transfer, as the Park has recently acquired a new sweeper from the military.  Johnson hopes to have further information at the next Town Council meeting.In other business – the 3rd reading of the Sanitation Ordinance, with a few residents in attendance to express discontent.  At issue – each resident is to have a 90-gallon toter for garbage, and any garbage not in the toter will be assessed a fee.  Complaints expressed included how often the toters tip over, and that folks don't want to re-do their garbage rack to accommodate the rules of the new ordinance.  After hearing the public comment, Council passed the ordinance, which takes effect immediately, and will be implemented by the next garbage pick-up day.Council approved the Spirit Ridge Subdivision and is now awaiting DEQ approval and a County review.  And the extension of the Stonebrook Subdivision will be approved, once there is confirmation that the ditches are up to standard.A final point – Mayor Cliff Clevenger is considering obtaining a contractor to look at a leak in two manholes under the Tongue River Estates, even though the lines were replaced just a few years ago.  Council will think of ideas of how to fix the leaks, possibly before the arrival of spring.

THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS ALSO IDENTITY THEFT SEASON - While the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is unquestionably the busiest time of the year for shopping, it unfortunately also poses an increased risk for identity theft. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more: Audio.

WHAT'S COMING UP AT THE SHERIDAN PUBLIC LIBRARY - The Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library will be very busy for the rest of the year, and also for the beginning of 2008.  Kathy Butler, Director of the Library, first tells us that the 25th Annual Library Auction was a huge success this year, bringing in over $54,000 – the second-highest amount ever raised.  The SAGE Art Exhibit will be open until Dec 21st, and some pieces on display are also for sale by contacting the artist.  Butler says there is another exhibit on display right now: Audio. There will also be a change in the regular hours for the Holiday Season, and Butler gives those changes: Audio. All libraries will also be closed on New Year's Day.  And for anyone looking for a Christmas celebration, Butler details an event out in Ranchester: Audio. The Story branch of the library will also have a Christmas Open House this Saturday from 10 am until noon.  And now that construction is done, the Sheridan Fulmer Library will be having an Open House on January 10th, 11th, and 12th; more information will be given out later this year.

 

Tuesday, December 04, 2007

EARLY MONDAY MORNING FIRE RESULTS IN TOTAL LOSS. - An early Monday morning fire located about 6 miles west of Dayton destroyed two homes at around 4:30 am yesterday.  Sheridan Fire Marshall Brian Songer explains what happened at the scene: Audio. Even though the two Amsden Creek Ranch Homes were deemed a total loss, all of the residents made it out unharmed. The flames were fueled by high winds coming down the canyons. Listener reports claim those winds to have been blowing up to 50 miles an hour. Songer said they had water tender trucks and structure protection trucks, as well as a lot of personnel. On hand were crews from Dayton, Ranchester, and Sheridan Fire Rescue.  The Fire Marshall said that the resident of the second home discovered the blaze and made the call in. The cause of that fire is under investigation. An investigator from the State Fire Marshall office in Casper is looking into the cause.

CITY OF SHERIDAN GREEN WASTE BINS GO INTO HIBERNATION - The City of Sheridan would like City residents to know that the Green Waste Containers around town have been taken out of use for the season.  All except the Mavrakis Pond containers will then be returned to their locations for two weeks, beginning December 26th for Christmas tree collection, and then all of them put away until returned to full use in the spring.  Again, this is for green waste only – the other recycling bins will remain in place all winter.

CONGRESSMAN DUNCAN HUNTER SPOKE AT C-TEL YESTERDAY - Sheridan had a visit from a California congressman yesterday. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the exclusive interview with Duncan Hunter of San Diego, California.: Audio.

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL MET FOR THEIR FIRST MEETING OF DECEMBER LAST NIGHT - There was some good discussion among Sheridan's City Council last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details: Audio.

SHERIDAN FIRE-RESCUE WILL BE GETTING TWO NEW FIRE ENGINES - Sheridan Fire Rescue got some good news at Monday night's Sheridan City Council meeting as Council approved the purchase of two new fire engines at the total of 677-thousand, 568 dollars. Sheridan Fire Chief Patrick Reitz: Audio. Reitz gives us the time line for when the new engines will be ready to roll:Audio. Reitz said that the engines came in over 72-thousand dollars under budget. Councilman Marc Ketcham's request to donate the current fire engines to the newly formed rural fire district was approved; however, not until after Councilors Scott Severs and Kathy Kennedy voiced their disapproval of the action.

DAYTON-RANCHESTER SENIOR CHRISTMAS PARTY BREAKS ATTENDANCE RECORD - What began about twenty years ago with about fifteen people, the Ranchester-Dayton Rotary's annual Senior Christmas dinner last night welcomed an attendance of over 150 last night to the Dayton Town Hall.  Event spokesman, Norm Anderson: Audio. As usual, events like this don't happen without the help of a lot of volunteers, like Pat Mischke, the chapter advisor for the Tongue River  High School FCCLA, and her high school students: Audio. Students from Tongue River High School also provided entertainment, and the crowd enjoyed a Christmas Carol sing-along, too.  Attendee Coral Shannon describes why she enjoys the annual festivities: Audio. And thanks to the generous donations of over sixty businesses from Dayton, Ranchester and Sheridan, all in attendance left with a door prize ... and a lot of good cheer.

MEDICARE PART D -- QUESTIONS AND QUANDRIES FOR WYOMINGITES - It's that time of year when Wyomingites in their golden years need to take a look at their Medicare Part “D” prescription plan. Loisjean Hallberg with the “Wyoming Senior Health Insurance Information Program” says no one can assume the coverage they purchased last time will work for next year: Audio. Hallberg also pointed out that people concerned about falling into the “doughnut hole” of no coverage need to talk to an adviser with the Senior Health Insurance Program as soon as possible: Audio. Hallberg also said that anyone who has changed medications should make sure they're covered, and those who just turned sixty-five need to sort through which plan is best for them the first time.  The deadline is December 31st, although Hallberg says it's best to get the paperwork done by the 19th so coverage doesn't lapse.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING RESERVATIONS DUE BY NOON TODAY! The Sheridan County Historical Society will be hosting it's first ever joint meeting with the Big Horn City Historical Society, during their annual Christmas Program this year. The program will be held at the Holiday Inn on Thursday, and consists of a presentation by Roy and Nancy Garber of the Willits and Garber family histories in Big Horn.  Judy Slack of the Big Horn City Historical Society explains the main part of the presentation: Audio. There will also be a special display at the program, Slack tells us: Audio. If you would like to attend the meeting, the dinner at 6 pm costs 15 dollars, and reservations must be made by noon today. The presentation portion of the program is free, and is set to begin at around 6:40. For more information, call Linda or Karen: 674-4436.

 

Monday, December 03, 2007

BUSINESS ETHICS SEMINAR SET FOR TONIGHT AT SHERIDAN  COLLEGE - The Sheridan College Students in Free Enterprise team, better known as SIFE is sponsoring a Business Ethics Seminar tonight at Sheridan College. Dr. Richard McGinity will present an informative seminar promoting the ethical practices of employers in the workplace.Dr. McGinity is the Bill Daniels Professor of Business Ethics at the University of Wyoming and has served on a number of privately owned and publicly traded company boards. The seminar is free and open to the public. It will take place at the Sheridan College CTEL at 7pm.

EARLY MORNING FIRE RESULTS IN TOTAL LOSS. - An early morning fire located 6 miles west of Dayton destroyed two homes at around 4:30 this morning. The two homes were located on the Amsden Creek Ranch. Sheridan Fire Rescue's Fire Marshall Brian Songer explains: Audio. Songer continues, explaining how the fire was fueled: Audio. Crews from Dayton, Ranchester, and Sheridan Fire Rescue were on hand to battle the blaze. All of the residents made it out with out harm, and no one needed medical treatment. Video of House Fire Our Town

SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL MEETS TONIGHT - Sheridan City Council will meet for their first meeting of December tonight and Sheridan Media's Ron Richter gives us a preview of what's on tap: Audio

THE SATELLITE STORY - AN ANGRY, APPARENTLY HOMELESS MAN GIVES HIS OPINION OF THE MEDIA - By now you may have seen “Satellite,” the apparently homeless man, who's stationed himself on the northeast side of the Interstate 90 and Fifth Street interchange. Our reporters, Kate Fetterly and Ron Richter, attempted to get the background story on the man. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details: Audio.  http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?email=1&mapdat

COMMUNITY HOLIDAY DINNER ANOTHER SUCCESS - Begun in 1991, the 17th Annual Community Holiday Dinner was, by all accounts, something in which to participate. All the meetings rooms and Atrium area of the Sheridan Holiday Inn were packed with people, and close to 600 people patiently waited in line to enjoy a turkey dinner served by volunteers clad in Santa hats.In fact, the dinner would not be the success it is without the large number of volunteers, including music by the Craft Brothers.  Mitch Craft says he and his brothers have taken part as entertainers for about ten years, and he comments on the line: Audio. Another volunteer, one of twenty split between two shifts, is “Cody”, a member of the Sheridan High School Student Council.  This is his first year helping: Audio. A holiday dinner wouldn't be complete without Santa and Mrs. Claus – a positive aspect of the dinner – among many – says 17-year veteran volunteer, Shari Peddicord: Audio. One of the attendees, who wished to remain anonymous, tells us why she enjoys the Community Dinner: Audio. Along with the free meal, coupons were handed out to those in need, allowing them to pick up well-stocked grocery bags.

LOCAL OPINION SOUGHT REGARDING A BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB - There will be an organizational meeting held at the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library's Inner Circle this Thursday from 7 to 8:30 pm to discuss the future possibility of opening a Boys and Girls Club in Sheridan.  Jan Gregory lists who can show up for the meeting: Audio. The proposed club would open underneath the Buffalo chapter of the Boys and Girls Club until they establish their own charter.  A requirement of having one's own charter is the amount of kids taking part – that number is 100.  Gregory states that anyone who supports this club should come, but she welcomes those who aren't as supportive as well: Audio. For anyone who isn't familiar with what the Boys and Girls Club is all about, Sarah Beaver explains what the club does for kids: Audio. While the club does not have a place set up, they hope to find one soon and have it ready by the start of the 2008 school year.  Funds are also needed for the club to open, so any businesses who would like to help are also welcome to attend the meeting – again, Thursday, December 6th, beginning at 7 at the Fulmer Public Library in Sheridan.

WANTED: MORE SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGERS! - Every year, the Salvation Army sets their red kettles out in front of stores to collect donations that benefit needy families, the elderly, and the homeless.  Captain Jason Gill, Executive Director of the Sheridan Corps Community Center, says that they need more volunteers if they want to reach their goal this year:Audio. Gill explains the main reason that they like using volunteers:Audio. A person can volunteer for any amount of time, with a minimum duration of two hours on up. Bell ringers are needed from Mondays to Saturdays until 9 pm;  the bells are silent on Sundays.  Gill adds that groups can do it as well:Audio. The Salvation Army will be needing bell ringers until Christmas Eve, and if you would like to help, Call the  Salvation Army: Jack Burke - 672-2444.

RANCHESTER SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR “DECK THE HALL” CELEBRATION - The town of Ranchester is seeking volunteers to help out with it's  “Deck the Hall” celebration coming up on the 15th. The celebration is planned to be held in the all new Town Hall, adjacent to their municipal building. The Town Clerk, Terry Laya, says they've got a lot going on for the 2007 celebration: Audio. You can call the Town of Ranchester to volunteer for the “Deck the Hall” 2007 celebration.  For more information, call the Ranchester Town Hall / Mayor Clevenger:  655-2283.

 

 

Sunday, December 02, 2007

SHERIDAN RESIDENT GETS ALMOST FIVE YEARS IN PRISION FOR WITNESS TAMPERING - In a news release from the U.S. Department of Justice; it stated that Sheridan resident Harry Allen Stroup was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Clarence Brimmer in late October for tampering with a witness. Stroup received four years and nine months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release. The case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.

FIRST EVER JOINT HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING THIS THURSDAY, RESERVATIONS ARE DUE BY TUESDAY AT NOON - The Sheridan County Historical Society is hosting it's first ever joint meeting with the Big Horn City Historical Society, during their annual Christmas Program this year. The program will be held at the Holiday Inn on Thursday, and consists of a presentation of the Willits and Garber family history at Big Horn.  It will chronicle the family's 126 years at Big Horn, accompanied by a photo presentation. If you would like to attend the meeting, the six p.m. dinner costs 15 dollars, and reservations are due by Tuesday at noon. Dinner reservations can be made by calling Linda or Karen at 674-4436. The presentation portion of the program is free, and is set to begin at around 6:40. Be sure to catch the Sheridan County Historical Society on the second half of our Public Pulse Program tomorrow morning beginning at 9:10 AM on 930 AM KROE. The Public Pulse Program will also be posted Here.

DON'T MISS THE ART INSIDE THE BANK! - On Friday, we reported to you that there is an all new statue in front of Sheridan State Bank. Today, we'd like to remind you that there are some spectacular views inside of the bank, as well. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story:Audio.

JOSH ROMNEY SPEAKS AT WATT AGRICULTURAL CENTER SATURDAY - Josh Romney, one of five sons of Re presidential hopeful Mitt Romney, spoke at the Joe and Arlene Watt Agricultural Center at Sheridan College on Saturday Morning. Sheridan Media Reporter Kate Fetterly has the exclusive interview:Audio . Wyoming is receiving a lot of attention because of the early  Republican driven County Convention dates. Tomorrow, you can catch a speech from presidential hopeful Congressman Duncan Hunter at noon in the Sheridan College CTEL.

WYOMING LEASES BLM OMITS OIL AND GAS LEASES IN SARATOGA VALLEY - The Bureau of Land Management has taken a step back from opening up the Saratoga Valley to oil and gas leases. Governor Freudenthal, as well and Wyoming Game and Fish, in addition to several conservation groups, object to the land lease for possible oil and gas development. Wyoming Government is mainly concerned about the sage grouse which inhabit in the Saratoga Valley. BLM originally intended to lease the nearly 30 thousand acres, but has purged in from this week's round of oil and gas lease sales. The state's BLM Director Bob Bennett says they chose to defer the proposed leases because a new management plan is in the works.

VICTORY AT ADOBE TOWN AS STATE PROTECTS A PIECE OF THE WILD WEST - Call it a victory if you will, at Adobe Town as state officials have granted the “Very Rare and Uncommon” designation to the wild area used by Butch Cassidy and other outlaws in Wyoming's past. Adobe Town is also home to prehistoric archaeological sites and a wealth of wildlife. The move will protect the land from uranium, oil shale and non-coal surface mining under state law. Carmi McLean with the Biodiversity Conservation Alliance says they're hoping now the state will work with the federal government to stop oil and gas leases in the area: Audio. McLean hopes that the next step will be to stop oil and gas leases all together: Audio. Private lands are not included in the approximately 180-thousand acres covered by the designation. Property owners within the area will retain their rights to use and access of their land.

 

Saturday, December 01, 2007

SHERIDAN RESIDENT GETS ALMOST FIVE YEARS IN PRISION FOR WITNESS TAMPERING - In a news release from the U.S. Department of Justice; it stated that Sheridan resident Harry Allen Stroup was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Clarence Brimmer in late October for tampering with a witness. Stroup received four years and nine months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release. The case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. Audio

CITY APPEALS BOARD HOLDS PUBLIC MEETING OVER $20,000 FINE - The City of Sheridan Fire and Building Code Board of Appeals held a public meeting in City Council Chambers yesterday. Their business was to address a developers' appeal to the city for reimbursement of fines, which total over 20 thousand dollars. Reporter Kate Fetterly explains: Audio.

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL'S TREES OF LOVE CEREMONY TO BE HELD TOMORROW - The annual Trees of Love is going on now. The event, which is sponsored by the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Auxiliary is a great way to honor some one special in your life. Community Relations spokesperson, Cecile Pattison tells a little about who lights could be purchased for: Audio. Those whom lights have been purchased for will receive a card telling them that they have a light on one of the Trees of Love. Pattison goes on to tell what others perks come with receiving a light. Audio. the tree lighting ceremony will be Sunday, December 2nd at 4:30pm, in front of the hospital's front lobby. A short poem will be read and refreshments will be served. Those wishing to remember some one are encouraged to purchase their lights now. The lights are only five dollars and all the proceeds help fund a needed project at Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

WORLD AIDS DAY IS TODAY - H-I-V / AIDS infections have leveled off in recent years in some states across the country, but not in Wyoming, as there have been gradual increases in the past few years and about 150 people are living with the disease. Today is World AIDS day and the message that health officials want to convey is that the disease is 100 percent preventable, yet 100 percent fatal. Wyoming Department of Health H-I-V Prevention Manager Rob Johnston says the fight against AIDS is an ongoing battle even though it isn't  dominating the headlines : Audio. Johnston points out that a trend in Wyoming is the steady increase in demographics of those with the disease: Audio. Johnston said that Wyoming has witnessed an increase in the number of women getting the disease, primarily from sexual contact and needle sharing during drug use. As part of World AIDS day, there will be an AIDS walk in Casper today.

SHERIDAN COLLEGE STUDENT CONDUCTS DONATION DRIVE FOR TROOPS IN AFGHANISTAN - Matt McNeil is a student at Sheridan College, and a member of the Law Enforcement club Chi Omega Pi. He's also an Army brat, having moved to Sheridan from Heidelberg, Germany. Matt's brother, Army Sergeant Robert Rush, is currently serving with the 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment in northeastern Afghanistan, and stateside in Sheridan, Wyoming, Matt tells us: Audio. Obviously, Matt hopes to be able to send a number of boxes to Sgt. Rush's unit, which means that there's not too many days left to be able to bring your donation: Audio. Important to note – Matt says that the paratroopers wear their B-D-U's all the time, so no clothes can be sent to them.  Again, the deadline to donate candy, cookies, toiletries and that all-important beef jerky is Saturday, December 15th, turning them in to the front desk or the Information Cage in the Sheridan College Whitney Building.

VOA THE HOMELESS OUTREACH PROGRAM – MEETING PEOPLE'S NEEDS 365 DAYS A YEAR - “Satellite”, the homeless man who has been camping on the 5th Street / I-90 ramp for several weeks, has prompted much public discussion regarding what should be done with him.  Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson spoke with Volunteers of America on their thoughts:Audio . Wyoming / Montana:  (307) 672-0475, Ext. 218

 


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