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THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 2008 VETERANS MILEAGE INCREASE APPROVED - For the first time in 31 years, disabled Veterans traveling to VA Hospitals to receive medical treatment will see an increase in the per- mile reimbursement for fuel costs. The 17 and- a-half cent increase comes after 7 years of work by U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, and his participation on the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. They voted to fund up to 125 million dollars through the Fiscal Year 2008 Omnibus Appropriations Act for the Beneficiary Travel Program. of the cost of traveling when our veterans have done so much for us. Enzi credits Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary James Peake for acknowledging the unique challenges of rural veterans through his approval of the increase. Senator Mike Enzi comments on the increase:
SHERIDAN MEDIA FLIPS FORMAT ON THE AM DIAL - Listeners in the Sheridan Area may have noticed a change to AM 1410 KWYO from an Adult Contemporary format to the Greatest Hits of All Time. Programming Director Russ Davidson of Sheridan Media comments:
GOVERNER FREUDENTHAL IN SHERIDAN TODAY - Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal will be in Sheridan later today. His first stop is here at Sheridan Media, with host Kim Love on the second half of our Public Pulse program on News / Talk 930 KROE beginning at 9 a.m. The next stop for the Governor will be to discuss workforce issues by visiting with local businesses. Workforce issues will again be the main topic at the Sheridan College C-Tel presentation Hall at 11:30 am. Later in the day, he'll visit two classes at Sheridan High School, and in the same neighborhood, he'll tour the Welch Cancer Center at 3:30 pm. We'll be following the Governor throughout the day today, and will report to you about what issues he's addressing on his stops in Sheridan. ENERGY DEPARTMENT PUTS AN END TO BUILDING FUTURISTIC COAL PLANT - Yesterday, citing ever-increasing costs, the Energy Department canceled the 1.8 billion dollar FutureGen plant, an emissions-free power plant scheduled to be built in Illinois. The federal agency says it prefers to spend the money on ahandful of projects around the country that would develop carboncapture and underground storage from coal power plants. Carbon capture involves pumping carbon dioxide from smokestacks underground so it can't contribute to global warming. Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman called it an "all-around better deal for Americans."However, the shift has stunned officials in Illinois, who made a lastditch appeal to President Bush aboard Air Force One Wednesday to keep the project intact. Despite their best efforts, their request was denied. GOVERNOR FREUDENTHAL BLASTS FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ON FUTUREGEN DECISION - The Department of Energy's decision on FutureGen did not please Governor Dave Freudenthal, who says it's “absurd and disingenuous for the federal government to pull the plug on the project. Freudenthal says that about half the nation's electricity comes from coal, and now more than ever the country needs research into how to burn it more cleanly.Wyoming had competed with several other states to try to land the proposed plant, but lost out of the competition in 2006 after organizers of the joint public-private FutureGen project said underground storage of carbon might threaten groundwater at the state's suggested site in Campbell County. Wyoming Senator Mike Enzi says the Department of Energy should consider directing some of the funding to projects in Wyoming. LEGISLATORS CONSIDER RECLASSIFICATION ISSUES - The Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce's 2008 Legislative Forum finished up yesterday, after some seventeen meetings with concerned organizations in Sheridan County. Reporter Kate Fetterly was on the trail of the legislators as they visited the Wyoming Girls School to discuss statewide issues, and has this report: SHERIDAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL BOARD GETS UPDATE ON STATUS OF JOINING WITH SHERIDAN SURGICAL CENTER - The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees met for their January meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details:
SHERIDAN MEMORIAL MARKETING CD IS NOW A FINISHED PRODUCT - The much-anticipated marketing CD for Sheridan Memorial Hospital was unveiled last night at the monthly Hospital Board meeting. Hospital Marketing Manager Danae Brandjord explains a little bit about the new marketing tool:
HOSPITAL AUXILARY WILL HAVE THEIR ANNUAL LUNCHEON TOMORROW - The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Auxiliary is holding their annual Board Meeting and Luncheon on Friday, and there is still time to RSVP. The luncheon will start at 11:30 am, and will be held in the Conference Rooms at the Hospital. Cecile Pattison, spokeswoman for the hospital, gives an overview of what happens at the luncheon:
UW TO HOST WYOMING CAMPUS SUICIDE PREVENTION SUMMIT - Representatives from the University of Wyoming and the state's community colleges will attend a statewide suicide prevention conference in early February at Casper College. Lena Edmunds with the UW Counseling Center says they'll explore many things at the summit:
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30TH, 2008 LEGISLATIVE FORUM 2008 BEGAN YESTERDAY - The Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce's Governmental Affairs Committee once again invited State legislators to meet with elected officials for their Annual Legislative Forum. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has more:
SENATOR BARRASSO PLEASED WITH STATE OF THE UNION COMMENTS ON COAL - U.S. Senator John Barrasso was of course one of those present for President Bush's State of the Union Address Monday night, and was particularly pleased on the president's remarks relating to energy – specifically, coal:
WYOMING LAWMAKERS PUSH TO TIGHTEN IMMIGRATION LAW - Wyoming might become the latest state to try to enact strict immigration control laws in the absence of federal action on the issue. Some state lawmakers are pushing an immigration bill that would make it a felony to harbor or transport an illegal immigrant.Sponsors of the bill say they want to protect those who work legally in the state from being undercut by illegal competition. One of the bill's co-sponsors, Representative Dan Zwonitzer of Cheyenne, says it's modeled on an Oklahoma state law that went into effect last year. Zwonitzer says he views the bill as preemptive for Wyoming, and that illegal immigration is becoming a more serious problem in states closer to the southern border. He feels it's only a matter of time before it becomes are larger issue in Wyoming. Critics of the Oklahoma law say it has terrorized Hispanics and driven thousands of people from the state, including both documented and undocumented workers. It would take a two-thirds vote for the Immigration Control bill to get a hearing in the Wyoming Legislative Budget Session that begins February 11th in Cheyenne. KATRINA REYNOLDS ARRESTED EARLIER THIS WEEK - The Sheridan Police Department arrested Katrina Reynolds in Sheridan's Downtown on Monday, and issued her a citation for indecent exposure. She was taken into custody at about 2:40 p.m. Monday afternoon. No details were released of the incident, which took place at the intersection of Brundage and Main Street. Reynolds is set to appear before the Municipal Court Judge on Friday morning for her initial appearance to hear the charges against her. In other law enforcement news, Sheridan Police reported to the Mint Bar on Sunday morning and arrested a 26-year-old female for Battery following several altercations there. Onlookers claim that she was “out of control”, as well as apparently intoxicated. In one incident, she allegedly hit a male subject and caused him to bleed. A bartender on duty that evening removed her from the establishment around 2 am and called police. Police met her in the alley and took her into custody, citing her for battery. At the discretion of the arresting officer, she was later released to a family member. She is set to appear in Circuit Court on February 14th for battery charges related to the incident, which is a violation of a state statute.
STORY LIBRARY RECIEVES A NEW TOOL FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED - The Story Branch Library has two new magnifiers, called the Bierley Monomouse, on loan for ninety days to help the visually impaired read books. Jo Elliott, manager of the Story Branch Library, describes how the device works:
PINEDALE DRILLING DISCUSSION CONTINUES - Big plans that will bring in big money -- that's the Bureau of Land Management's plan to clear the way for drilling more than four thousand new wells in the Pinedale Anticline, which will mean millions for local communities. A recent public hearing brought politicians from all over the state to tout the bottom line, and it was a hearing so crowded that the BLM is planning another one. Green River resident Kevin Holdsworth was one of those who raised concerns about the plan at the meeting. He says the issue is not just the large number of new wells being cleared, but allowing drilling year-round:
“LIVING WITH WILDFIRES” SYMPOSIUM TO BE HELD AT MONTH'S END - The Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce Agricultural, Natural Resources, and Public Lands Committee is sponsoring a “Living With Wildfires” Symposium on February 28th at Sheridan College. Eric Brandjord, board member of the Sheridan Chamber, gives a brief description of the event:
TUESDAY, JANUARY 29TH, 2008 SANSONETTI DECIDES NOT TO RUN FOR U.S. CONGRESS - A well-known figure in Wyoming's Republican circles says he's decided not to run for Congress. Tom Sansonetti is a Cheyenne attorney and a former Republican national committeeman. Last year, he was among those who volunteered to replace Senator Craig Thomas after Thomas' death in June. Sansonetti was among three finalists chosen by state Republicans, but Gov. Dave Freudenthal appointed state Sen. John Barrasso.Sansonetti also was the primary organizer of the state Republican county conventions earlier this month. It was the second-earliest primary event this election season.Sansonetti said he'd been thinking about running for Congress, but planning for the conventions took the better part of a year. He's decided that now is a good time to take a break and focus on more onhis law practice. Incumbent Republican Representative Barbara Cubin is not seeking an eighth term. Candidates so far include former State Treasurer Cynthia Lummis, a Republican and Wilson businessman Gary Trauner, a Democrat.
CITY PLANNING COMMISSION HAD THEIR HANDS FULL LAST NIGHT - The City of Sheridan Planning Commission covered a packed agenda last night, and dealt with some contentious approvals. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details:
PLANNING COMMISSION WORK SESSION LOOKED AT HIGHER EDUCATION ZONES - At last night's City Planning Commission work session, the board heard from Ed Armstrong of Armstrong Design Studio, as well as the City's Planning Staff, about a new higher education zone for the city of Sheridan. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details:
SHAC PRESENTS AT SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION - At the Sheridan City Councils' bi-weekly work session, the councilmen and women heard a presentation from the Sheridan Housing Action Committee, or SHAC. Marie Lowe, who's the Executive Director for SHAC, updated the council as to what they're doing to help working families obtain workforce housing. Lowe talks about how they help potential homeowners:
AIRLINE TASK FORCE EYING FIRM TO HELP IN AIRLINE RECRUITMENT - When Big Sky Airlines announced earlier this month that they would be pulling out of Sheridan, a void was left in the local airline service that officials agree needs to be filled. The Sheridan County Airline Task Force is taking a look at the idea of hiring the Boyd Group Inc, who specialize in aviation consulting and forecasting. Forward Sheridan Executive Director Phillippe Chino plans to contact the Boyd Group to request a preliminary scope of work and cost estimates, which he will then send to the Task Force for revision prior to approaching the City and County for consulting fees. Chino suggested to the task force at their meeting earlier this month that they retain the Boyd Group for six months with an optional renewable contract, as data assessment and soliciting for service could take up to four months. SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE BACKS MILL LEVY FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGES - State lawmakers are resuming talk of a possible statewide tax to support community colleges.Last month, the Joint Education Committee rejected a bill thatwould establish a statewide property tax for the colleges.Committee members worried about taxation without representation --meaning that people who live outside a college district would get no say either in levying the tax or deciding how to spend the revenue.On Monday, the committee addressed that issue with a new bill which would allow people who live outside a college district, but within the broader "service area" of a college, to be elected to the colleges' boards of trustees. The bill also would expand the colleges' boards of trustees from seven to nine members.The committee voted 10-4 to adopt the bill for the legislativesession which begins February 11th. WYOMING MAIN STREET PROGRAMS NOW ACCEPTING LOAN APPLICATIONS - The Wyoming Main Street Program is currently accepting applications for their newly revised Revolving Loan Fund. Program. Manager Evan Medley explains the loan:
UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING AG DEAN COMING TO SHERIDAN THIS WEEK - We told you yesterday that Governor Freudenthal would be paying a visit to Sheridan this Thursday. Well, the governor isn't the only special guest that will be in town that day. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
SHERIDAN COLLEGE SCIENCE MUSEUM STILL STRUGGLING TO OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - The Science Museum at Sheridan College has been working hard to open their doors to the public, but they still have a ways to go before that can happen. Sheridan Media's Crystal Hoffman has the details:
MONDAY, JANUARY 28TH, 2008 GOVERNOR FREUDENTHAL TO VISIT SHERIDAN THIS WEEK - Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal is coming to Sheridan this week and will visit two local groups. The governor is set to arrive on Thursday, with a visit to the Whitney Building, and then he'll stop by Sheridan High School to visit with an advanced psychology class. The governor comments on the upcoming visit:
CLARION MEETING WAS GOOD FOR OFFICIALS TO SEE WHERE THE CITY AND COUNTY ARE HEADED - Late last week, the three Sheridan County commissioners, both City of Sheridan and Sheridan County planners, and several members of the Sheridan City Council met with Clarion and Associates to look at the City and County Comprehensive Plan. Mayor Dave Kinskey was also present, and comments on what they had the chance to do:
DUCKS UNLIMITED DINNER AND AUCTION RAISED OVER 30 THOUSAND DOLLARS, HAD EXCELLENT TURNOUT - The annual Ducks Unlimited Fundraising Dinner and Auction raked in over 30 thousand dollars this weekend towards habitat improvement for wildlife. Sheridan Media's MaryJo Johnson has the re-cap:
WYDOT WARNS RESIDENTS TO LOOK OUT FOR SNOWPLOWS - The winter weather we've been having has resulted in the snowplows coming out more often to clean off the roads. As a result, drivers need to exercise caution if they come upon a snowplow. Sheridan Media's Crystal Hoffman has some tips on how to avoid hitting one:
CITY OF SHERIDAN POLICE AND SPEEDING? HOW TO DEAL WITH THE ISSUE - Listeners to our Open Line Friday last week were concerned about City of Sheridan police officers speeding through downtown Sheridan. We investigated further, and spoke with City Police Chief Mike Card about the issue. He addresses that by advising the public as to what steps to take if they see such an incident occurring:
SIFE TO OFFER FREE TAX HELP AGAIN THIS YEAR - It's once again that time of year to begin preparing our income tax returns. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has details on how you can get some free help in filing this year:
THIS WEEK'S POLL QUESTION ADDRESSES THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR POSITION - After the City Council meeting last Monday, an emergency city ordinance was passed to allow a referendum election, which will give city residents the opportunity to vote on whether to create the position of City Administrator. This election will take place on February 28th at the Senior Center from 7 am to 7 pm. Before the vote takes place, we wanted to find out your opinion. This week's Sheridan Media and Bank of Sheridan Weekly Poll Question is: “Do you support the creation of the position of City Administrator?”
ICE FISHING HAS BEEN LOOKING GOOD THROUGHOUT THE REGION - Excluding this weekend, the recent cold weather has meant for some good ice fishing in our area for anglers. Game and Fish Information Specialist Warren Mischke gives us the status of ice fishing at Lake DeSmet:
LEGISLATIVE FORUM STARTS TOMORROW - The annual Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Forum will be held tomorrow and Wednesday, and will be broadcast for everyone not in attendance. John Patton, Chairman of the Governmental Affairs Committee of the Chamber, gives a brief explanation of the Forum:
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IS STILL LOOKING FOR BUSINESSES AND VOLUNTEERS FOR REAL LIFE FAIR - The Real Life Fair, which is sponsored by the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce, is coming up on February 21st and 22nd, and the Chamber is still looking for people to help out with the event. Erin Butler, Program Coordinator for the Sheridan Chamber, gives an overview of the event:
SUNDAY JANUARY 27TH, 2008 WYOMING WOLVES IN THE CROSSHAIRS - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is in the process of clearing the way for states, including Wyoming, to shoot and kill gray wolves if they have an impact on elk and deer. Melanie Stein with the Sierra Club says she's confused on the rush to kill wolves: WYDOT WARNS RESIDENTS TO LOOK OUT FOR SNOWPLOWS - The winter weather we've seen recently has resulted in the snowplows coming out more often to clean off the roads. Because they are out on the road more, accidents with the plows have been on the rise. In response to those events, WYDOT has issued some tips to prevent more accidents from occurring. Ronda Holwell, Public Involvement Specialist for WYDOT, gives us the number one thing you can do to reduce your chance of hitting a snowplow: SENATOR BARRASSO COMMENTS ON PRESIDENT BUSH'S ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGE - Thursday's passing of President Bush's 150 billion dollar economic stimulus package in the U.S. House of Representatives will mean tax rebates for up to 117 million families by this spring. The proposal does still however have to pass through the Senate, which it is expected to do. U.S. Senator John Barrasso Friday commented on the package: WYOMING DELEGATION SEEKS OVERSIGHT IN DERCREASE OF GRAZING PERMITS IN THE BIG HORN NATIONAL FOREST - Wyoming's Congregational Delegation recently sent a letter to Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment Mark Rey of the Department of Agriculture to seek continual dialog about the recent decrease in grazing permits in the Big Horn National Forest. Resources Staff Officer with the Big Horn National Forest Bernie Bornong says this will be an ongoing issue:
Saterday, January 26, 2008 HYPE TO HOLD EXCITING EVENT TONIGHT - HYPE 80’s-Theme Roller Skating Party - January 26, from 7pm-9pm, at Scotty’s Skate Castle. Sponsored by HYPE, but open to everyone! $3.25/person to skate, $1/skate rental. Come dressed in your best 80’s attire! For info, call Erin 752-9340. IRS REMINDS PEOPLE THAT MOST TAXPAYERS ARE ELIGIBLE TO FILE THEIR TAXES ONLINE FOR FREE - The IRS wants to remind people that once again this year they'll be offering their Free File Program for taxpayers. Media Relations Specialist with the IRS Jean Carl gives us the details of the program FIRE IN BIG HORN - The Sheridan Fire Rescue and Big Horn Volunteer Fire Department reported to a structure fire at 9 Knode Road, located in Big Horn, northeast of the Powderhorn Golf Community yesterday morning at about 10 a.m. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details GUEST SPEAKER WILL BE AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE TONIGHT - The Sheridan College Filmmakers Workshop starts today, and their first class will be visited by screenwriter and University of Wyoming professor William Missouri Downs. Downs has a Master of Fine Arts in acting from the University of Illinois and a Master of Fine Arts in screenwriting from UCLA. He has had nearly one hundred productions all over the world, and has also written for Hollywood, including the sitcom “Fresh Prince of Bel Air.” The Filmmakers class will get to work with Downs, and after the class is over, he will be holding a free public lecture from 6 to 8 pm in the C-TEL auditorium. Anyone interested in screenwriting or anyone interested in hearing Downs speak is welcome to attend his lecture, because it will be worth your time! CITY SNOW BLOWER BACK IN SERVICE TODAY - Sheridan City Road crews are happy that their snow blower is back in service today following a 36 hour hiatus. Crews worked on Friday afternoon to get the snow blower back up and running after the snow thrower apparatus' bearing went out. The bearing, which weighs in at about 30 pounds, had to be shipped from a parts dealer in South Dakota. The snow blower was out of service for about a day and a half. City Operations Manager, Pete Husman, explains why the out of commission machine was such a problem CLASSICAL WESTERN MUSIC IS COMING TO SHERIDAN THIS WEEKEND - The Bar J Wranglers will be performing tonight and tomorrow at the WYO Theater. Some folks call it a western music show, others think of it as a stand-up comedy performance accompanied by masterful cowboy music. Whilst others call it the best musical experience in the west. Call it what you want to...the fact remains; The Bar J Wranglers from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, are known to deliver some of the purest musical harmony, and the funniest ranch humor ever seen on stage. As soon as the Bar J Wranglers take to the stage, listeners leave behind their busy life and settle into a time long ago -- a time of the singing cowboy. The evening performance is tonight (Saturday) at 7:30 pm and the matinee is a 3 O'Clock tomorrow (sunday) afternoon. For more information, you can find out more through our website. MDU RESOURCE GROUP GIVES DOWNTOWN SHERIDAN ASSOCIATION A HELPFUL GRANT - The Downtown Sheridan Association, or DSA, was successful in its application for a one-hundred-thousand dollar grant from MDU Resources Group Incorporated, the parent company to Montana-Dakota Utilities, Fidelity Exploration and Production Company, and Bitter Creek Pipelines. The grant will initially be used for restoring the thousand-foot stretch of Big Goose Creek in Kendrick Park. We reported to you in December 2007 that the Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resources Trust had granted DSA seventy-five-thousand dollars for the same project. Roger Bent, Executive Director for DSA, says that “This most recent commitment by MDU Resources is part of the incredible excitement we see our community pouring out for our streams.” Bent says that DSA will move forward with the mapping and final design of the Goose Creek restoration once the ice is melted. This data will be sent to the US Army Corps of Engineers, who will review the data. If the data is approved, the Corps will release construction permits for the restoration. This restoration project has been ongoing since the City of Sheridan completed a feasibility study in 2005.
SENATOR BARRASSO COMMENTS ON PRESIDENT BUSH'S ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGE - Thursday's passing of President Bush's 150 billion dollar economic stimulus package in the U.S. House of Representatives will mean tax rebates for up to 117 million families by this spring. The proposal does still however have to pass through the Senate, which it is expected to do. U.S. Senator John Barrasso Friday commented on the package:
Friday, January 25, 2008
CITY OF SHERIDAN PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR TO MAKE CAREER MOVE - The City of Sheridan's Public Works Director, Rod Leisinger announced Thursday afternoon at a media conference that he's stepping down from his position at the end of June this year. Citing health reasons, as well as pressures of a rapidly growing community, Leisinger leaves behind some twenty years' experience working in municipal government. What's next for him is an exciting opportunity as he makes a transition into the Sheridan County Engineer's position. County Commissioner Bob Rolston comments:
SHERIDAN WOMAN WILL REACH A MILESTONE TOMORROW - January 26th is usually just another day, but for Thelma Isakson, that day is a special occasion that many people never get to celebrate. Sheridan Media's Crystal Hoffman has this story:
EMT REFRESHER COURSES OFFERED TOMORROW AND NEXT WEEK - The Sheridan Fire-Rescue will be offering two free refresher training courses beginning tomorrow for anyone who is a Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician, or EMT. The classes are suitable for all certification levels, and they will be held in the Sheridan Memorial Hospital meeting room B, which is located by the cafeteria. Joe Yalowizer, an EMT-Intermediate with the Fire Department, gives an explanation of why the Department is offering the courses, and how they will be offered:
SHERIDAN COUNTY MUSEUM OFFERS NEW PROGRAM, SEEKS SPONSORS - The Sheridan County Museum has announced a new fundraising project that will benefit children's activities at the Museum. Nathan Doerr, the Curator of Museum Education, explains the program the Museum is currently developing:
WYDOT EMPLOYEE RETIRES AFTER 38 YEARS OF SERVICE - On December 31st 2007, Cliff Gorzalka left his position of 15 years as Sheridan Area Maintenance Supervisor, and 38 total years with the Wyoming Department of Transportation. Ronda Holwell, Public Involvement Specialist with WYDOT, gives a brief description of what Cliff's duties were:
CLASSICAL WESTERN MUSIC IS COMING TO SHERIDAN THIS WEEKEND - The Bar J Wranglers will be performing this weekend at the Wyo Theater. Some folks call it a western music show, others think of it as a stand-up comedy performance accompanied by masterful cowboy music, whilst others call it the best musical experience in the west. Call it what you want to...the fact remains; The Bar J Wranglers from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, are known to deliver some of the purest musical harmony, and the funniest ranch humor ever seen on stage.As soon as the Bar J Wranglers take to the stage, listeners leave behind their busy life and settle into a time long ago -- a time of the singing cowboy. The evening performance is tomorrow (Saturday) night at 7:30 pm, and the matinee is a 3:00 pm on Sunday afternoon. For more information, call 307-672-9084 or online at: www.wyotheater.com . SHERIFF DAVE HOFMEIER URGES CAUTION WHEN ENJOYING THE WHITE STUFF - With all the snow that has fallen comes the potential for a lot more driving accidents. We turned to Sheridan County Sheriff Dave Hofmeier for some words of advice, starting with driving tips on icy roads:
Thursday, January 24, 2008 CITY CREWS CONTINUE CLEANUP EFFORTS - Just when city and county crews were starting to get ahead of the game in their snow removal efforts, a second storm hit Tuesday evening, ensuring that the long hours of snow removal will continue for several more days.Pete Husman is the Operations Manager with the City of Sheridan, and he gives us some snow hauling statistics as of yesterday afternoon:
LIFEQUEST OFFERS FOSTER PARENT OPENHOUSE TONIGHT - Sheridan-based LifeQuest Behavioral Health Services is hosting a foster parent open house tonight for present and future foster parents. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the information:
SHERIDAN CITY COUNCILOR MARK KETCHUM HOPES TO INSTALL A NEW STOPLIGHT OUT OF SAFETY CONCERNS - Sheridan City Councilman for Ward II, Mark Ketchum, says there's much ado about pedestrians getting across 5th Street and Long Drive:
DAYTON TOWN COUNCIL HEARS ABOUT KLEIBER RESTORATION - At Dayton’s second Town Council meeting of the month last night, one topic came up that is of historical importance. The Kleiber Cabin on Main Street in Dayton has held some possessions of artist Hans Kleiber that have been sitting around the cabin. However, as Dayton Mayor Bob Wood explains, there are plans to change that:
SHERIDAN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE'S JANELLE MARTINSEN COMPLETES FIRST YEAR OF PROGRAM - Janelle Martinsen was out of her office at the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce from January 6th to the 10th, but she wasn't on vacation; she was attending class. As Executive Director of the Sheridan Chamber, she signed up for the Institute of Organizational Management, a four-year program for non-profit leaders. Martinsen explains how the first year of the Institute works:
LIBRARY RECEIVES BOOK DONATIONS FROM FIBER ARTS GUILD - The Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library has received a beneficial donation to it's circulating collection. Because of the success of the Fiber Arts Guild's Tenth Anniversary Show, the event's committee were able to donate fifteen books. The books contain a variety of fiber art-making techniques and are intended to spark an interest in the fiber arts. The content is to help people just beginning, as well as those who are already experienced, and wish to explore other kinds of skills. The Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library wishes like to thank the Fiber Show Committee for its generous donation. YELLOWSTONE LAUNCHES ITS FIRST LIVE-STREAM WEBCAM - Yellowstone National Park released it's first live-stream web cam yesterday that will focus primarily on the world famous Old Faithful Geyser with live full motion video. Park Spokesman Al Nash explains the newest addition to the park:
WE'LL HAVE THE FINAL STORY ON THE SHERIDAN REGION GAME & FISH ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR 2007 - The third and final segment of the Sheridan Region Game and Fish 2007 accomplishments focuses on wildlife management and enforcement. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
Wednesday, January 23, 2008 ESCAPED WYOMING HONOR FARM INMATE IN CUSTODY - Three weeks later, they caught him! The Wyoming Department of Corrections has announced today that Elburn Cordel Bailey, an escaped Wyoming Honor Farm Inmate, is in custody. Thanks to an anonymous tip, he was found in Casper along with a woman who is believed to have assisted in his escape. Both will be detained at the Fremont County Detention Center for further investigation. Four agencies collaborated to catch Bailey, including the Riverton and Casper Police Police Departments, the Fremont County Sheriff's Department, as well as the Federal Marshals' Office. Bailey was serving sentences for forgery and for unlawful use of a credit card. He was sentenced in Casper in December 2005 to 4-7 years. SEEDA SELECTS ARCHITECT, OTHER BUSINESS - Armstrong Design Studio of Sheridan. That's who was selected as the final architectural firm for the design and construction process on the new “Hand in Hand” Early Childhood Educational Center. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the story:
SHERIDAN COLLEGE STARTS ITS FILMMAKERS WORKSHOP THIS SATURDAY - Sheridan College is accepting registrations for a community Filmmakers Workshop Class starting this Saturday. Workshop Instructor Leon Schatz tells us why he thinks people should take this Workshop:
AN UNFORTUNATE WEEKEND OF WEATHER DIDN'T DIMINISH THE 2008 WYOMING ALL-STATE MUSIC CONFERENCE - Despite the bad timing of a two-part winter storm, the 61st Annual All-State Music Conference, which took place at Sheridan High School Saturday through last night's Gala, was a smashing success. SHS Vocal Instructor, Ashley Lecholat told us:
VAMC NOW ACCEPTING ENTRIES FOR THEIR CREATIVE ARTS COMPETITION - The Sheridan VA Medical Center will be accepting entries for the 2008 Creative Arts Competition starting at 9 am today, and entries will be accepted until 1 pm on Friday. Jackie Van Mark, Public Affairs Officer for the Sheridan VA, explains why they hold the Competition:
WYOMING 'ROADLESS' AREAS TURN TEN - It's been a long ten years for the “roadless rule,” which was first proposed a decade ago yesterday. It caused controversy when it was proposed, and still causes controversy today. The “roadless rule” is a Forest Service policy that keeps developmental bulldozers off of over three million acres in Wyoming. The goal of the rule is to save money, since roads carry many maintenance costs. Mike Dombeck, the former Forest Service Chief who came up with the idea, says the policy strikes a chord with Wyomingites:
SHERIDAN HUNTERS HAVE SUCCESSFUL BISON HUNTS IN 2007 - Sheridan residents Carol Watkins and Larry Durante were both lucky enough to draw a 2007 bison license, and both of them also harvested a cow bison. We wanted to share their stories with you, since the 2008 bison application period is open until February 29th. Carol was notified of her draw in mid-November. She took off for the Elk Refuge on Thanksgiving Day, and harvested her buffalo early on the fifth day. After the kill, Carol stated that “Game and Fish staff and Elk Refuge staff came out into the field two different times with blaring sirens to move the herd off that was surrounding the carcass.” An outfitting staff helped Carol haul out the buffalo, and she calls the hunt “one of the most exciting I've had as a female hunter.”Larry Durante drew for the first time in 2007, and had two weeks to hunt the Refuge. Larry shot his cow on the first day of hunting, and took three hours to harvest it and get it to their pickup. Larry says it was a “good thing since it started to rain as soon as we got it loaded into the pickup and was still raining when we took off for home two days later.” He says that he had an overall great time, and the bison provided some tasty meat. We congratulate Carol and Larry on their successful Bison hunts, and we look forward to hearing more stories next year. You can get your 2008 Bison Application at the Regional office of the Wyoming Game & Fish Department: (307) 672-7418.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008 SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL PLOWED THORUGH A PACKED AGENDA - As City Road Crews worked overtime plowing streets in the double digits below zero temps outside, Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey and the City Council plowed through a packed agenda inside at last night's council meeting. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details:
CITY COUNCIL PART II: APPROVALS - At last nights' Sheridan City Council meeting, Council and the Mayor approved a couple items calling for change in how the city does business. Reporter Kate Fetterly has more:
SEEDA BOARD HEARS PRESENTATIONS FROM TWO ARCHITECTS – WILL CHOOSE ONE AT TONIGHT'S MEETING - Members of the Sheridan Economic and Educational Development Authority Joint Powers Board heard two architect presentations that covered most of the afternoon yesterday in preparation for the design choice on the Hand in Hand Child Care Center. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has the story:
SHAC WAS A BIG PLAYER IN DANA-DOWNER PROJECT - The Sheridan Housing Action Committee, or SHAC, was a big player in the Dana- Downer affordable housing project. Reporter Kate Fetterly has more: SENATORS CALL FOR INCREASE IN VETERANS' MILEAGE BENEFIT - CODY Wyo. (AP) - Seven U.S. senators are asking the Department THE JANUARY HISTORICAL SOCIETY DINNER AND PROGRAM IS THIS WEEK - Never ones to take a break from their monthly presentations, the Sheridan County Historical Society is preparing to bring you the January dinner and presentation this week. Spokesperson Mary Ellen McWilliams gives us the rundown of what the audience will enjoy as they learn about Alan Fordyce:
THE ANNUAL DUCKS UNLIMITED DINNER AND AUCTION IS THIS SATURDAY - For over twenty years, the annual Ducks Unlimited dinner and auction has been taking place in Sheridan, and this year is no exception. Coming up this Saturday, January 26th, the Sheridan Holiday Inn is the location for the 2008 event, and Jerry Grandahl outlines the locations where you can purchase banquet and raffle tickets:
Monday, January 21, 2008 WHAT DOES THIS WEEK HOLD AS FAR AS SNOW AND WINDCHILL? - The snow is finally starting to subside a bit as Sheridan County residents awaken this morning – the nearly full moon was actually visible for the first time in several nights. We checked in with Dan Borsum at the National Weather Service in Billings to find out what we received and what is yet to come for this week. As to what various areas received in snowfall since last Thursday, he says:
SHERIDAN CITY ROAD CREWS ISSUING A SNOW REMOVAL ALERT - As of midnight last night, Sheridan street crews started windrowing snow on the designated snow routes in preparation for picking it up. The hauling will start between 8 and 10 this morning, and residents who have not yet removed their cars from the curbs along those routes will need to do so to allow operators to safely and efficiently clear the snow from curb to curb. Also today, they will begin plowing residential areas. They will plow the snow in the streets to the outside of the curb, which may cause some inconvenience and necessitate cleaning sidewalks. When doing so, crews ask that residents please shovel and throw the snow into their yards, and not back out into the streets. SEEDA AND THE PUBLIC TO HEAR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CENTER ARCHITECTURAL PRESENTATIONS - The Sheridan Economic and Educational Development Authority Joint Powers Board will hear two architectural presentations regarding the design of the Hand In Hand Early Childhood Education Center this afternoon. Studio Ten Architects from Colorado Springs will give the first presentation, followed by Sheridan-based Armstrong Design Studio. The two firms will present their design plans to the Joint Powers Board, as well as to the public, at the Sheridan College Main Street Campus beginning at 1 o'clock. The location is different than what was previously announced. While the presentations are open to the public today, the final determination of which architect will be selected will be made in executive session at the SEEDA Board's regularly scheduled meeting that takes place tomorrow evening at 5:30 at Sheridan's City Hall. CITY COUNCIL HAS A LARGE AGENDA FOR TONIGHT'S MEETING - Sheridan City Council will gather for the last regular January meeting tonight, with some interesting items on the agenda. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more:
SHERIDAN COLLEGE SCIENCE MUSEUM LECTURE SERIES STARTS UP AGAIN ON WEDNESDAY - Now that Winter Break is over for Sheridan College, the Science Museum Lecture Series is scheduled to begin again on Wednesday. Sheridan Media's Crystal Hoffman has the details:
GAME AND FISH TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING ON WOLF PROPOSAL AT SHERIDAN REGION OFFICE THIS WEEK - The Sheridan Game and Fish Regional Office will be the site for a special meeting this Wednesday night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
THIS WEEK'S POLL QUESTION ADDRESSES A PROPOSED INCREASE ON THE BEER TAX - During the next Legislative session, the State will consider a bill that will raise the current tax on beer from 2 cents a gallon, the lowest in the nation, to 6.5 cents a gallon. The profits from the tax hike would benefit mental health and substance abuse treatment. We wanted to see what your opinion is about this proposed tax hike. This week's Sheridan Media and Bank of Sheridan Weekly Poll Question is: “Should the State Legislature increase the tax on beer?”
SUNDAY JANUARY 20TH, 2008 A WEEKEND UPDATE FROM THE MAYOR ON HOW CITY CREWS HAVE BEEN DOING WITH THE CLEANUP - Although the snow keeps on falling, city crews are still out on the streets to make sure that drivers stay safe in Sheridan. Mayor Dave Kinskey tells us about the crew's efforts last night: LACK OF ATV SAFETY TRAINING RESULTS IN FATALITIES - The growing number of workplace fatalities involving All Terrain Vehicles, or ATVs, is becoming a concern of the Wyoming Department of Employment. In the past year there were three OSHA-investigated ATV fatalities recorded, including a sheep herder and a surveyor for a pipeline, both of who overturned ATVs. In another incident a irrigation district employee overturned an ATV and drown after being pinned underneath the vehicle. Most of these accidents could have been avoided, had the drivers been properly trained in how to handle the machines in a safer way. Riders must read the operating manual and review the safety DVD prior to use. Riders should also wear the recommenced safety equipment, including helmets, eye and face protection. Both ATV dealers and manufacturers offer free classes, materials, and videos on the safe operation of the vehicle. BLM reorganizes in Wyoming - CODY, Wyo. (AP) - The Bureau of Land Management is realigning its organizational structure in Wyoming. The decision has been approved to move from the current two-tier structure to a three-tier organization with district offices added. The BLM says that this will provide more quality control, as well as the opportunity to reduce duplication of services. Three districts will be created. The Wyoming High Desert District will encompass the Rock Springs, Rawlins, Kemmerer and Pinedale Field Offices, with the district office located in Rock Springs. The Wind River/Big Horn Basin District will incorporate the Worland, Cody and Lander Field Offices, with the district office located in Worland. And the Wyoming High Plains District will consist of the Casper, Buffalo and Newcastle field offices. The district office will be located in Casper. State BLM Director Bob Bennett stressed that constituents shouldn't see any changes in how they conduct business with the agency. The three-tier organization becomes effective on October 1, 2008. SHERIDAN COUNTY FULMER LIBRARY TO HOLD RECEPTION TODAY - The Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library will be hosting the Opening Reception for “Fences and Neighbors”- The Diffusion of Fence Styles East to West, later today. The reception will include a tour of the exhibit, as well as further background information on the works of art. The presentation, is part of the interactive exhibit “Between Fences”, which documents different styles, uses, and history of fences. Another part of the exhibit is the “Fences of Sheridan County,” which is a local photography contest. Entries must be matted o framed and ready to hang. Submissions of photos featuring fences in Sheridan County for this part of the exhibit must be in by January 31st. If you would like more information on the exhibit or the contest, Call the Sheridan County Fulmer Library at 674-8585. And a Reminder the library will be closed tomorrow, Monday the 21st in recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. and Equality Day. PETA ASKS ALL PET OWNERS TO KEEP THEIR PETS WARM THIS WINTER - Every year, PETA receives complaints about dogs who are left outside in the cold. While they have fur coats, dogs and other animals can still suffer from frostbite, exposure, and dehydration when their water freezes. Cold weather is especially hard on "backyard" dogs, who often go without adequate food, water, shelter, or medical care. As Sheridan has been hit hard with snow over the last few days, PETA wanted to give pet owners some tips in order to help protect their animal companions from the elements: ·Keep animals inside as much as possible, particularly puppies and kittens, elderly animals, small animals, and dogs with short hair. ·Don't allow your cat or dog to roam freely outdoors. Cats can climb under the hoods of cars to be close to the warm engine, and may be injured or killed when the car is started. ·Increase animals' food rations because they are burning more calories to keep warm. ·When your dog is outdoors, provide them with proper shelter. Doghouses made of wood with a flap on the door will keep them warm outside. If you would like more information, or would like more tips, visit http://helpinganimals.com  Jarod Martin & Dee Crawford, Winners of Grand Prize Winners BRIDAL PREVUE ENDS WITH A BIG WINNER! - The Bridal Prevue, sponsored by Sheridan Media, was at the Holiday Inn yesterday, giving brides and grooms the chance to find caterers, dresses, photographers, and more. At the end of the Prevue, we gave away over $2500 in gifts from participating merchants. This year's winner was Jarod Martin and his fiance, Dee Crawford. Martin usually is a merchant at the event as a DJ, but attended the event this year instead. Here's what he had to say about the event and winning the grand prize:
Saturday, January 19, 2008 ALL STATE MUSIC CONFERENCE COMES TO SHERIDAN - The 2008 Wyoming All-State Music Conference will be held in Sheridan this year at the Sheridan High School in the main gym. The conference, which begins Sunday, showcases the talents of the top 10 percent of musicians, grades 9-12, from 45 Wyoming high schools. Sheridan High School’s choir teacher, Ashley Lecholat explains why All-State is such a big deal:
BLACK HILLS CORP RECIEVES OKAY FROM ISC FOR WYGEN III - On Wednesday, the Wyoming Industrial Siting Council approved Black Hills' Corporations' application to construct WyGen III. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details: GOVERNOR ON GROWTH DISCUSSION - Earlier this week, Governor Dave Freudenthal held a media conference to discuss last week's Building the Wyoming We Want Conference and said that discussion about growth in the state should originate in communities, not the Governor's office: SOLDIER PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO CHILD PORN CHARGES - (AP) - A soldier on leave from military duty in Iraq pleaded not guilty to possessing and receiving child pornography over the Internet. U.S. Magistrate Michael (schick-itch) Shickich released Ricardo (GOW-oh-nuh) of Ranchester, on $20,000 bail Thursday with more than a dozen conditions. Among the conditions, Gaona must have electronic monitoring, abide by an 8 p.m. curfew, not use computers, not travel outside Wyoming and not have contact with anyone under 18 with rare exceptions. If convicted, Gaona faces between five and 30 years imprisonment, possible lifetime supervised release, and a $500,000 fine.
Friday, January 18, 2008 CITY CREWS CONTINUE TO WORK ROUND THE CLOCK IN AN EFFORT TO KEEP STREETS CLEAN - The National Weather Service has extended the winter storm warning for our area until 5 o'clock this afternoon. And as the snow continues to accumulate outside, Sheridan City Street Crews are working round the clock to try and keep up. Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey:
A T-BONE CRASH LEAVES BASIN WOMAN DEAD, PASSENGER HOSPITALIZED - A Basin, Wyoming resident has died following a T Bone crash with a Semi- Tractor Trailer yesterday on US Highway 14 where it intersects US 310 about 6 miles north of Greybull in Big Horn County. The Wyoming Highway Patrol says Anne Durney was not required to stop as she was westbound on U.S. 14–16–20. Mister Karen A Shahvekyan was the operator of the Swift Transportation Semi, and misjudged his speed and was unable to stop as he approached the highway from US Highway 310 in the icy conditions, and slid into the intersection.Durney attempted to brake , however, her 1999 Chevrolet Malibu collided with the driver's side of the trailer at the middle point of the trailer. The Malibu traveled completely under the trailer and continued over 200 feet west of the intersection. Her vehicle went off the roadway and through the right-of-way fence before coming to a stop. The 52 year old Anne Durney was pronounced dead at the scene. The accident caused the East and westbound lanes of Highway 14/16/20 to be closed for about a half hour. Chevy Malibu Passenger, 20 year old Mary Durney, was transported by ground ambulance to South Big Horn Hospital in Basin and was later life flighted by helicopter to Billings. Shahvekyan has been cited by Troopers for failing to stop at a stop sign. SHERIDAN FIRE RESCUE TO HOST EMS REFRESHER COURSE TOMORROW - Sheridan Fire-Rescue is hosting an Emergency Medical Services 24-hour refresher course beginning tomorrow. The 3 days of 8 hour continuing education will fulfill the refresher requirement for Emergency Medical Technician’s (EMT) National Registry certifications. It may also fill many of the requirements for Wyoming EMT certification. The classes are suitable for all certification levels and are free. Instructors come from the local medical community and include doctors, nurses, and EMTs. The Sheridan Fire-Rescue encourages anyone who is interested in, or actively involved in, emergency medical care to attend some or all of these classes. Attendees are invited to bring friends, coworkers, and peers to take advantage of this unique opportunity to obtain quality training from local professionals right here in Sheridan. Classes are held on Saturdays starting tomorrow at 8:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M at Sheridan Memorial Hospital in meeting room B, located next to the cafeteria..For more information, contact Sheridan Fire-Rescue at 674-7244 or visit www.city-sheridan-wy.com/info/fd/index.php TRAVIS LEE CURETON NABBED IN CASPER - The man allegedly involved in a series of crimes in Sheridan, including the burglary of Bino's on December 22nd and the Econo Wash on January 11th, has been caught. Wednesday morning in Casper, Travis Lee Cureton was arrested by the Casper Police Department. Probation/Parole Officer in Casper, Josh Brown, explains the arrest was on a number of charges:
CITY CREWS HARD AT WORK KEEPING THE STREETS CLEAN; SOME ADVICE FROM THE MAYOR - The latest winter blast that hit yesterday has been keeping City of Sheridan Street crews busy. Mayor Dave Kinskey says crews are doing all they can to keep up with mother nature:
SHERDIAN COUNTY FAIRBOARD GETS PROPOSAL FOR MASTER SITE PLAN AND ELECTS NEW OFFICERS - The Sheridan County Fair Association Board of Trustees held their monthly meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details:
COLLEGE BOARD HOLDS JANUARY MEETING IN MODIFIED LOCATION; DISCUSSES STUDENT ENGAGEMENT SURVEY - The January Northern Wyoming Community College District Board meeting, originally scheduled to take place in Buffalo, was switched back to the Sheridan College Griffith Building because of the blustery weather. While the majority of board members met at Sheridan College, others were “present” through a video conference with Gillette and phone conference with Buffalo.Of the issues discussed, college president, Dr. Kevin Drumm, tells us about the Board of Cooperative Higher Education Services which is funded through a half-mill levy:
MEMBERS OF SHERIDAN COLLEGE SIFE TEAM PRESENT AT 2008 NACCE CONFERENCE - Members of the Sheridan College Students in Free Enterprise team, or SIFE, had the honor of being the sole student presenters at the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship's 5th Annual Conference held in San Antonio, Texas earlier this month. The team hosted a presentation on how SIFE brings entrepreneurship opportunities to the community. In order to be considered to give a presentation at the conference, the Sheridan College team had to submit a proposal to the national organization. Over 400 community college administrators and faculty members were in attendance at the conference, where the theme was “Building Bridges.” The focus of the event was on how to build connections across campus, in the community, with other colleges, and even across international boundaries to further the mission of entrepreneurship education. KATRINA REYNOLDS MAKES ACCUSATION AS SHE SLEEPS NEXT TO THE FREEWAY ONCE AGAIN - Sheridan Resident Katrina Reynolds has once again perched herself next to the freeway in her red tent, located at Brundage Lane and the south I-90 on-ramp. Reporter Kate Fetterly spoke with Katrina earlier this week and has the story:
Thursday, January 17, 2008 ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING THE DETAILS ON REFERENDUM ELECTION ON CITY ADMINISTRATOR POSITION IS NOW COMPLETE AND READY FOR COUNCIL'S APPROVAL - At the January 7th Sheridan City Council meeting, the ordinance to establish the date, time and place of the referendum election for the City Administrator position was removed from the agenda due to all the details not being worked out prior to the meeting. Well now the details have been worked out and the ordinance has been drafted. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
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