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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2008 JUSTIN DERRICOTE HAD HIS DAY IN COURT AGAIN TODAY - Justin Derricote, also known as “Satellite”, had his day in court again today on the charge of trespassing. Arrested earlier this week and released on a 200 dollar cash bond, Derricote appeared before Municipal Court Judge Stu Healy at the Sheridan Law Enforcement Center. Healy handed down a 10 day jail sentence for the trespassing violation, with 9 of those suspended. Derricote is expected to serve one day in jail, beginning tonight, plus pay a 200 dollar fine and 20 dollars in court costs. According to the sentence, Derricote must not violate any laws under a 6 month unsupervised probation order. Finally, Derricote may not enter the premises of “The Rock Stop” located at 1514 East 5th Street. CHARTER ORDINANCE 1 FAILS Sheridan Special Election Vote Results:
BY A TIGHT MARGIN, THE ANSWER IS... - Some 2,200 Sheridan voters turned out for the special election yesterday at the Sheridan Senior Center to vote on whether the City of Sheridan should hire a City Administrator. City Clerk-Treasurer, Art Elkins, has the statistics on the results of the ballot that asked: “Shall Charter Ordinance No. One Entitled Enzi City Administrator take effect?”
HOW DID THE SPECIAL ELECTION PROCESS GO OVERALL? - Now that it's finished, we asked officials their thoughts on how the Charter Ordinance One special election went overall yesterday .City Clerk-Treasurer Art Elkins had high praise for those who ran the election at the Sheridan Senior Center
LIVING WITH WILDFIRES FORUM OFFERED IMPORTANT INFORMATION - Some 65 Sheridan area residents turned out for the “Living with Wildfires” forum at the Sheridan College C-Tel on Thursday night. Reporter Kate Fetterly was there and has the details:
SHERIDAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL MEDICATION RECONCILIATION PROGRAM IS GETTING GOOD REVIEWS - Officials at Sheridan Memorial Hospital are always looking for ways to improve the quality of care that's provided and the Medication Reconciliation program does just that. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
GOVERNOR URGES SENATE TO ACT ON WYOMING RANGE LEGACY ACT - Governor Dave Freudenthal told the Subcommittee on Public Lands and Forests Tuesday that the Wyoming Range should not be a casualty of a failed national energy policy. He says this signature mountain range in western Wyoming is a national treasure, and shouldn’t be sacrificed as a result of the intense pressure to drill for more natural gas in Wyoming:
SHERIDAN FILMMAKERS LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD MEN AND WOMEN THIS WEEKEND - This weekend the Sheridan Filmmakers will be giving the public the opportunity to show their acting skills. Workshop series instructor, Leon Schatz, explains what's going on this Saturday and Sunday at Sheridan College:
WATER QUALITY IN LAKE DESMET IS GOOD, ACCORDING TO LEVEL 1 STUDY - Overall, the Water Quality in Lake DeSmet is generally very good. That's according to the Level 1 Study funded by the Wyoming Water Development Commission over the past eighteen months. Dayton Alsaker of HKM Engineering told this information to the Lake DeSmet Counties Coalition on Wednesday. As far as a possible drinking water source is concerned, many factors for mineral content met acceptable levels set forth by the EPA. The four major concerns, according to Alsaker are generally treatable. Alsaker said that since the water in the lake is about thirteen years old, it doesn't change much, and gets hard; all of these reasons could be a challenge when considering it as a possibility to treat and distribute in the future. Other concerns from the Level 1 Study are the total dissolved solids, total organic carbon, and the sulfites. In conclusion, Alsaker said that the quality for aquatic life, fisheries, recreation and scenic value were the good factors for Lake DeSmet. Additionally, the water quality for some parameters had increased over tests performed in the 1970's and 80's.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2008 SPECIAL ELECTION DAY IS HERE! POLLS OPEN UNTIL 7 PM AT SHERIDAN SENIOR CENTER - Today is the day, and the polls are open. City of Sheridan residents are urged to head to the Sheridan Senior Center – polls are open until 7 pm today – to cast their “yay” or “nay” vote on the issue of whether to establish a City Administrator position with the City. We hit the streets of Sheridan yesterday to ask folks their thoughts on the election and whether or not they plan to vote:
2008 BUDGET SESSION UPDATE -- LEGISLATORS EXTEND BILLS IN COMMITTEE TO NEXT MONDAY - State lawmakers are nearing the end of the 2008 Budget Session, but there's still some long hours to put in before everything wraps up in Cheyenne. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson has an update:
SHERIDAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL BOARD GETS UPDATED ON NEW POLICY - The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees met for their monthly meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details:
WE HAVE THE ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS REGARDING THOSE ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGE REBATE CHECKS - Today we wrap up our series on the IRS with some answers on just when we're supposed to be getting those Economic Stimulus Package rebate checks, and what we need to do to get them. IRS Media Relations Specialist, Jean Carl, gives us all of the details:
CITY OF SHERIDAN ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO COMMENT ON THE TRANSPORTATION STUDY - The City of Sheridan is looking for city residents to comment on the Transportation Study, which has been picked up and reworked within the last year. Rod Liesinger, Public Works Director for the City of Sheridan, reviews the objectives of the Study:
A REMINDER THAT THE WYOMING 511 SYSTEM IS AVAILABLE FOR RESIDENTS TO HEAR ROAD AND WEATHER CONDITIONS ANYTIME - The Wyoming Department of Transportation wants to remind Wyoming residents that they can find current road and weather conditions by dialing 511 toll-free any time of day. The system was redone last summer to improve customer satisfaction. The voice recognition feature was made optional, and now lets callers choose their direction of travel and how much of the route they want information on. The system can also handle more calls without dropping them, but some callers may still get a busy signal sometimes because of the limitations of rural phone systems. The 511 travel system provides information about road closures, pavement conditions, weather conditions, short term weather forecasts, and seasonal road closures. And callers are reminded that only the two or three-digit route number is needed, so if you want to hear about I-90, you only need to enter the numbers 9 and 0, followed by the pound sign. There is also a web version of 511: www.wyoroad.info . GOVERNOR FREUDENTHAL SENDS 2008 APPOINTMENTS TO THE WYOMING SENATE - Governor Dave Freudenthal sent his 2008 appointments for the state’s boards, commissions and agencies to the Wyoming Senate for confirmation on Tuesday. Some of those appointments include Michael McVay as the Director of the Department of Administration and Information; Bruce Salzburg as the Attorney General; Gary Child as the Director of the Department of Employment; and Tony Lewis as the Director of the Department of Family Services. UW RESEARCHERS DEVELOPING A MORE EFFICIENT ETHANOL PRODUCTION METHOD - A University of Wyoming professor has received a $485 thousand grant to explore a more economical way to produce ethanol. Professor of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Patrick Johnson, says ethanol could become a more viable alternative transportation fuel if it can be produced more efficiently:
ENZI PLEASED WITH FIRST UPDATE TO INDIAN HEALTH IN 15 YEARS - U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, praised the Senate's passage of a "long-overdue" update of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act in the Senate Tuesday:
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2008 CLINTON CAMPAIGN COMES TO WYOMING - The campaign for Hillary Clinton has come to Wyoming. Two offices will be opening today at 5:00 pm, with one in Cheyenne and the other in Casper. The offices are Senator Clinton's first attempt to bring her campaign to Wyoming. State Director for the “Hillary For Wyoming” Campaign, John Lipshutz, explains what the opening will entail:
SHERIDAN TRANSPORTATION PLANNING MEETING FOCUSES ON DOWNTOWN - There was another public Sheridan Transportation Planning meeting last night, with its focus being downtown Sheridan. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details:
SAWS HEARS WWDC LEVEL 1 STUDY RESULTS - The Sheridan Area Water Supply, or SAWS Joint Powers Board was the first of several area governing bodies to hear the results following an 18-month water study. Kate Fetterly reports the studies findings:
SEEDA OKAYS CONTRACTS; SEEKS “CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AT RISK” QUOTES - The Sheridan Economic and Educational Development Authority, or SEEDA Joint Powers Board held a very productive regular meeting last night in the Sheridan College Whitney Boardroom. The meeting was also attended by the Sheridan Quality Child Care Initiative (SQCCI) - board. SEEDA chairman Tom Sachse comments on the action the board took:
PROPERTY TAXES A SIGNIFICANT ISSUE FOR LEGISLATIVE REVENUE COMMITTEE - As the 59th Wyoming Legislature continues the 2008 Budget Session, Representative Mike Madden of Buffalo, who serves on the Joint Revenue Interim Committee, has been working on House Bill 92, which deals with the Property Tax Refund Program. He explains how this tax relief bill works:
WE CONTINUE OUR SERIES ON THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE - Today we continue with the second in a three-part series on news from the IRS during this busy tax season. IRS Media Relations Specialist, Jean Carl, tells us about a certain group of taxpayers who will have to wait another week before they can file:
SCIENCE MUSEUM LECTURE SERIES CONTINUES TONIGHT WITH A LECTURE ON TROUT - It's time again for another presentation in the Sheridan College Science Museum Lecture Series, and tonight's topic will be “Trout of the Bighorns” presented by Will Young, a fisheries biologist for the Bighorn National Forest office in Sheridan. Young tells us what his presentation is about and how he will make it interactive:
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2008 Video of Voting at CIty Hall (mpg file, open with Windows Media Player.) SATELLITE ARRESTED FOR TRESPASSING... AGAIN! - Justin Derricotte, more commonly known as “Satellite”, was arrested today for trespassing on the Rock Stop convenience store property. After reviewing video surveillance in regard to another matter, the store's manager notified the Sheridan Police, who arrested Derricote late this morning Derricote bonded out of the Sheridan County Detention center on a $220 cash bond. Full details of the arrest were not made available to media, citing that he has yet to appear in Sheridan Municipal Court. We'll be sure to keep you updated as to the “Satellite” situation. WE'VE GOT SOME SIMPLE REMINDERS FOR YOU REGARDING THE UPCOMING SPECIAL ELECTION - We're just a couple of days away from the referendum election on Charter Ordinance One that establishes a city administrator position for the City of Sheridan. As far as the number of people that have elected to go the route of absentee ballots for the special election, City Clerk/Treasurer Art Elkins has the latest count:
PLANNING COMMISSION APPROVES ADAMS' RANCH SUBDIVISION - The City of Sheridan Planning Commission approved 95 acres known as the Adams Ranch Subdivision for development in one of the newest areas of the city of Sheridan. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story:
PLANNING COMMISSION IS SEEKING BOARD MEMBER - The City of Sheridan Planning Commission is seeking an additional member for its seven-member board, with the expected resignation of commissioner Mike Butcher later this week. The requirements to join the planning commission are that you need to be a city resident with an interest in responsible development in the expanding city of Sheridan. Applications can be made at the Mayor's office at City Hall. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION LOOKED AT JUVENILE JUSTICE COMMISSION - This week's Sheridan City Council bi-monthly work session addressed an annual update from the Juvenile Justice Commission Joint Powers Board. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details:
IRS WANTS SMALL, TAX EXEMPT ORGANIZATIONS TO KNOW ABOUT A RULE CHANGE THIS YEAR - The Internal Revenue Service wants people to know about a new law for small, tax exempt organizations that is in effect this year. IRS Media Relations Specialist, Jean Carl, with the details:
FOREST OFFICIALS GETTING READY FOR THE UPCOMING WILDFIRE SEASON - Yesterday we told you about how President Bush's proposed 2009 budget will cut many U.S. Forest Service fire prevention programs; however, the good news is that those cuts most likely won't be felt in our area anytime soon. Today, Sheridan Media's Ron Richter tells us what officials with the Big Horn National Forest are doing to get ready for this years wildfire season:
TONGUE RIVER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT A PAGE IN STATE HOUSE - Dayton Public Works Director and District 1 School Board Trustee, Johann Nield, has something to brag about, and it has nothing to do with the aforementioned titles, but everything to do with his role as “dad”. He informs us about a great opportunity for his son, John:
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2008 LEGISLATORS CONTINUE TO FINE-TUNE BUDGET ALLOCATIONS THIS WEEK - CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) - Both houses of the Wyoming Legislatureplan to work this week to reconcile differences in their budgetbills. As we've reported throughout this session, the State doesn't have much extra money for lawmakers to spend this time around. That means that much of the budget discussion this session has centered on how to allocate the $350 million that the Joint Appropriations Committee has recommended for support oflocal governments. The House and the Senate on Friday approved separate distribution plans for the money. They plan to work out the differences this week. The House funding proposal would designate $40 million of the local government funding to reimburse counties and local governments for revenues they stand to lose from last year's permanent repeal of the sales tax on groceries. The Senate, meanwhile, adopted a funding proposal on Friday that doesn't specifically designate money to cover the lost revenues from the food tax. The Senate plan calls for $200 million in direct grants to local governments that would include the lost food tax money. LEADERSHIP SHERIDAN COUNTY '08 GROUP AT THE LEGISLATURE - The Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Sheridan County '08 are heading to Cheyenne today (Monday) to participate in Business Day at the Legislature tomorrow. First on the agenda for the group is a reception dinner tonight with other leadership groups from around the Cowboy State. Tomorrow morning, the Leadership Sheridan group will follow a different schedule than the Chamber, according to Shari Peddicord. Peddicord is the Business Operations Manager at Forward Sheridan, and this month's module leader for the '08 Leadership participants. She explains more about what they're going to do at the State Capitol:
WEEKLY POLL QUESTION ASKS ABOUT DOG FIGHTING - In the 2008 Budget Session for the Wyoming State Legislature, House Bill 46, or the Dog Fighting Bill, passed through all three readings with little discussion in the House. Wyoming is now the only state where dog fighting is only a misdemeanor. In recognition of this bill, we wanted to ask your opinion. This week's Sheridan Media – Bank of Sheridan Weekly Poll Question asks: should dog fighting be a felony?
WILL U.S. FOREST SERVICE CUTS AFFECT FIRE SUPPRESSION IN THE BIG HORN NATIONAL FOREST? THE ANSWER IS ON THE WAY - U.S. Forest officials announced that under President Bush's proposed 2009 budget, the forest service may have to cut funding for wildfire preparedness, hazardous fuels reduction and other fire operations. This on the heels of one of the busiest fire seasons nationwide last year, as well as locally. Will the possible cuts hamper fire suppression efforts in the Big Horns? Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
LIVING WITH WILDFIRES SYMPOSIUM WILL TAKE PLACE THIS THURSDAY - The Sheridan Count y Chamber of Commerce Agricultural, Natural Resources, and Public Lands Committee is sponsoring the “Living With Wildfires” Symposium this Thursday in the Sheridan College C-TEL. This free Symposium will take place from 6 to 9 pm, and light refreshments will be served before the presentations. Eric Brandjord, an organizer for the Symposium, briefly describes the purpose for holding the event:
DID YOU KNOW? STORY HAS ESTABLISHED IT'S OWN HISTORICAL SOCIETY - Sheridan County has no shortage of historical societies, with one in Sheridan, one in Big Horn, and now one in Story.Patty Jengles is with the Story Women's Club and a board member of the new historical society for the little town in the Big Horn Mountains. She says the first step was to get a building for the new organization:
SIFE WILL HOLD THE SECOND ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINAR TOMORROW - The Sheridan College Students in Free Enterprise, or SIFE, will be holding their second Entrepreneurship Seminar tomorrow at the C-TEL Presentation Hall at 7 pm. Tracy Dearinger, Business Instructor at Sheridan College, gives the layout of the seminar:
GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT TO HOLD SAFETY SEMINAR NEXT TUESDAY - Staying safe in bear, lion and wolf country is the theme for next Tuesday's Game and Fish seminar at Sheridan College. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2008 SHERIDAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL HAS SOME HEALTHY EATING TIPS TO GET YOU BACK ON YOUR WAY TO FEELING GREAT - Everyone needs to eat, that is a fact that is displayed even before we are born. But what to eat to remain healthy is a question that many have a tough time answering. Sheridan Memorial Hospital Dietitian Ann Barker gives us this advice: YOUTH SEMINAR SEEKS ADULT VOLUNTEERS - The Wyoming Hugh O'Brien Youth Leadership seminar is looking for adult volunteers for the 2008 seminar that will take place in Cheyenne from June 7th to the 9th. Tom Lacock (pronounced LAY-cock), the Public Relations Specialist with the Wyoming Business Council, lists what kind of volunteers they are looking for: SHERIDAN COUNTY BOARD MEMBER RESIGNS FROM POWDER RIVER ENERGY CORPORATION BOARD - During the February meeting of the Powder River Energy Corporation, or PRECorp, Board of Directors, Sheridan County director John Buell resigned after 13 years on the board. Buell no longer lives in the established PRECorp territory, which disqualifies him from serving on the board. PRECorp is now seeking applicants to fill Buell's vacancy until the term ends in August of this year. PRECorp supplies electricity to over 27,000 meters in a five county territory of northeastern Wyoming. If you would like more information on this position, or would like to apply before the March 7 deadline, You can call Doreen Schaar: 800-442-3630 ext. 3500 SHERIDAN VOTERS COMMENT ON OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT -
The Obama campaign continues to win support throughout the nation, in the Democratic primaries as well as the caucuses. Obama’s campaign, which boasts 11 straight primary victories, recently made a stop in Sheridan. On this past Wednesday, the Obama for America staff made a special appearance at The Book Shop in downtown Sheridan. The staff answered questions from the gathering of voters about the campaign, as well as held a discussion with Sheridan residents who support Senator Obama. Speaking on behalf the youth in Sheridan was Sheridan High School Senior Katy Marosock (muh-roo-sock). Marosock explains why she is in favor of Senator Obama:
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2008 GOVERNOR FREUDENTHAL TO TESTIFY ON KEY ISSUE FOR WYOMING IN OUR NATION'S CAPITAL NEXT WEEK - Governor Dave Freudenthal is currently in Washington D.C. attending this weekend's Governor Conference and then it's on to take part in a very important hearing Wednesday that has a lot of important implications for the State's future. Freudenthal explains: SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT COMMENTS ON JOB SHADOW DAY - 168 Sheridan High School students had an opportunity to get a first-hand look inside the workplace Friday with the Job Shadow Day, sponsored by the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce. 18-year-old Sheridan High School senior, Blake Harbour, discusses what he learned during his day spent with the Sheridan Media staff: CITY OF SHERIDAN ADDS NUMBER 1 AND 2 PLASTICS TO RECYCLING OPPORTUNITIES IN SHERIDAN - The City of Sheridan just added more recycling containers to create additional opportunities for residents to recycle in the City. For the first time in the history of the city, Mayor Dave Kinskey took the opportunity to recycle a plastic bottle in the city. He comments on this moment: MORE DETAILS ON THREE BERGER BILLS - The 59th Wyoming Legislature is underway, tackling the 2008 Budget Session. Prior to digging into the dollars and cents of the Budget itself, each representative and senator is allowed to introduce up to five bills for which they desire monies from the budget. Yesterday, we reported on the status of Representative Rosie Berger's Dog Fighting Bill and Domestic Violence Bill. Today, she expounds upon her other three, starting with the Crime Victims Compensation Bill:
SHERIDAN ICE FIGURE SKATERS IN RAPID CITY FOR REGIONAL COMPETITION TODAY - Three Sheridan Ice figure skaters are in Rapid City, South Dakota today for a regional competition which includes participants from all over the area. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details:
KIWANIS STARS OF TOMORROW WINNERS DIVISION 1 (Kindergarten TO 3rd GRADE) FIRST PLACE: LOGEN LIVINGSTON DIVISION 2 (4th TO 6th GRADE) FIRST PLACE: ASHLEE QUARTERMAN DIVISION 3 (7th & 8th GRADE) FIRST PLACE: SARAH MAZE DIVISION 4 (9th TO 12th GRADE) FIRST PLACE: JACOB HIRSCHMAN, IAN HENRY, TREVOR BATEMAN, WILL SAFFLE, KYLE SNYDER (5 PART JAZZ ENSEMBLE)
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2008
IT'S “TURNING POINT” DAY IN WYOMING LEGISLATURE - Today is the turning point in Cheyenne, as the 59th Wyoming State Legislature continues their work on the 2008 Budget. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson brings this update:
WE WILL HEAR THE REACTION FROM VARIOUS STATE AGENCIES ON THE DELISTING OF THE GRAY WOLF - Thursday's announcement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to remove the gray wolf from the endangered species list has state officials pleased -- in particular Governor Dave Freudenthal and U.S. Senators Mike Enzi and John Barrasso. But what happens now, and what about those that aren't so happy with the decision? Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
KIWANIS STARS OF TOMORROW SET TO TAKE THE STAGE TONIGHT AT THE WYO THEATER - There will be a lot of homegrown talent gracing the stage at the WYO Theater this evening as the annual Kiwanis Stars of Tomorrow talent contest will be taking place. Kiwanis Board member Judy Taylor explains the four different divisions of talent:
 . The report suggests a moratorium on coal bed methane wells in the Clear Creek and Crazy Woman Creek drainages in order to save more than three billion barrels of water from being used. Morrison says that the study takes a look at the use of water in extracting the gas:
. Morrison adds that she’s hopeful the science can help manage development to avoid legal wrangling and politically charged skirmishes.
THE MONTHLY HISTORICAL SOCIETY DINNER AND PROGRAM IS HERE AGAIN! - It's time again for the Sheridan County Historical Society's monthly dinner and program, which will be next Thursday at the Sheridan Holiday Inn. This month's program is called “Subjects of the Mikado: Sheridan County's Japanese Community from 1900-1930,” and the presenter is Cynde Georgen, the Superintendent of the Trail End State Historic Site. She gives an overview of what she will include in her presentation:
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT BAKER ENERGY - Sheridan residents were introduced to Baker Energy at a Business After Hours party on Wednesday at the Sheridan Inn, which is currently under construction. Guests, which included some 100 Chamber Members, were treated to live piano music, a chocolate fountain, and the chance to play baseball on the Nintendo Wii. The field operations manager for Baker Energy, Ace Armann, explains why they were happy to host the party:
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2008 Video: Friday, February 15, 2008
SHERIDAN POLICE REPORTED TO THEATER LAST NIGHT - At about 8:40 p.m last night, the Sheridan Police reported to Centennial Theaters at 5 East Alger Street following the report of a man with a weapon. Apparently, the man was a former employee of the theater. According to Sergeant Tom Ringley, the man never brandished the guns which were later discovered in his vehicle. The man was brought to the Sheridan Memorial Hospital for evaluation. In a related matter, the Theater was robbed on Tuesday night, though that incident remains under investigation, and no further details are available at this time. OBAMA'S CAMPAIGN CAME TO TOWN WEDNESDAY EVENING - The “Obama for Wyoming” campaign hosted an organizational meeting yesterday at The Book Shop in downtown Sheridan. The “Obama for Wyoming” staff was willing to answer any questions about how supporters could become part of the growing movement. State Communications Director, Matt Chandler, explains why this is so special:
DAYTON TOWN COUNCIL STOPS EMPLOYEE HEALTH INSURANCE - At Wednesday night's Dayton Town Council meeting, Council discussed paying the Town employees a higher wage in lieu of providing health insurance. Dayton Mayor Bob Wood explains:
TRANSPORTATION PLANNING STUDY WORKSHOPS CONTINUE TO KEEP THE PUBLIC INFORMED - Over the next month, the City of Sheridan will be holding numerous Transportation Planning workshops to involve the public in planning for alternative access to accommodate the growth within the community. The latest meeting was held last night and dealt with the corridor delineated on the east by I-90 and on the west by the railroad, Sheridan Avenue and Coffeen Avenue. Sheridan City Engineer, Nic Bateson, explains that these workshops are all about getting the public involved:
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION LOOKS AT INFRASTRUCTURE COSTS - The Sheridan City Council held a work session earlier this week, with costs of infrastructure being the topic. City Public Works engineer, Mike Cole, elaborates:
ARE MOUNTAIN PINE BEETLES DAMAGING TREES IN THE BIG HORN NATIONAL FOREST AS THEY ARE IN SOME OTHER PARTS OF THE STATE? - As a result of an aerial survey conducted in 2007, the U.S. Forest Service recently issued a report that stated that the mountain pine beetle could kill off a large number, if not all, of the lodgepole pine trees within the state over the next five years. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter takes a look at what kind of an impact the beetle is having on lodge poles in the Big Horn National Forest:
U.S. SENATOR MIKE ENZI COMMENTS ON WIND RIVER JOB CORPS CENTER - It was made official Tuesday when Riverton Mayor John Vincent leased 124 acres of City-owned land for the Wind River Job Corps Center to the United States of America at one dollar a year. U.S Senator Mike Enzi was on hand for the signing and commented on the positive impact the Job Corps Center will have on the Riverton area:
MORE WYOMING HIGHWAY PATROL TROOPERS COMING TO GILLETTE, BUFFALO - There will be one new State Trooper in Buffalo, and three new State Troopers in Gillette within the next couple of weeks, according to Sergeant Steven Townsend of the Wyoming Highway Patrol. He lists the names of those new Troopers:
JACKALOPE JUMP RESULTS ARE IN - Twelve Wyomingites showed up at the Sheridan/Buffalo Jackalope Jump last Saturday to raise money for the Special Olympic athletes in Wyoming. The Jump was considered a success because of the fun the participants had, and because of the three thousand dollars raised at the event. A special thanks goes out to Sheridan Fire-Rescue, Rocky Mountain Rescue, Sheridan Renew, Sheridan Pepsi, and Starbucks for their support. The last of the three Wyoming Jackalope Jumps will be in Laramie on March 8th. We will post the special incentive winners from the Jump are:
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2008 A VICTORY FOR LOCAL FAMILY AT SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL - The Sheridan City Council meeting offered a victory for a local family at the Sheridan City Council meeting on Tuesday. Ordinance number 20-42 to allow Vietnamese Potbellied Pigs in the Sheridan City Limits passed with a unanimous city council approval. The Dickison Family was particularly pleased, when it allowed for them to keep their pet pig, “Blanca”. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the exclusive interview: SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL PUTS IN ANOTHER MARATHON MEETING - Sheridan City Council covered a varied agenda at their meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details:
SCHOOL DISTRICT ONE BOARD HEARS GOOD NEWS/BAD NEWS FOR SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM - At last night's Sheridan County School District 1 board meeting, trustees heard from Tongue River Middle School about the creative process that faculty have been using to improve students' reading – throughout this school year, in fact, the board has been following the reading progress of all district schools, as the issue has been one of the board goals.Another presentation represented good news/not-so-good news for the Tongue River Elementary Summer School program. Superintendent Sue Belish with the good news:
LOCAL SCHOOLS AFFECTED BY MEAT RECALL - After the recent meat recalls from the Westland Packing Plant in California, which has become the largest beef recall in the United States, we wanted to see the impact these recalls had in Sheridan County. The recalled beef was mostly sent to the National School Lunch Program, and some of that beef did get sent to two school districts in the county. Sheridan County School District #1 Superintendent Sue Belish said that the beef they have received from the packing plant has been set aside at the Central Office warehouse, since they were notified of the recall several weeks ago. She says that none of the recalled beef has been, or will be, served to the students.Sheridan County School District #2 Business Manager, Marilyn Koester explains how their district handled the recall:
SHERIDAN COLLEGE TO CONSIDER NAMING STREETS ON CAMPUS - The Sheridan College Trustees have been talking about adding to their residence capacity on campus, and that brings about another important topic, which was discussed at their meeting last week. Sheridan College President Kevin Drumm tells us:
WESTERNERS INTERNATIONAL WILL HOLD THEIR MONTHLY MEETING TOMORROW - The non-profit group Westerners International will be holding their monthly dinner meeting tomorrow at the Holiday Inn starting at 6:30. After dinner, there will be a presentation by Herbert Houze about Samuel Colt and his firearms. Houze gives reasons why Colt is an important part of history:
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2008 SEXUAL ASSAULT SUSPECT DEANDRE TAYLOR HAD INITIAL APPEARANCE IN CIRCUIT COURT ON - 18-year-old DeAndre Marcell Taylor made his initial appearance in Sheridan Circuit Court Tuesday in the wake of an arrest following allegations of sexual assault, which is a felony crime punishable by imprisonment for not less than 5 years, nor more than 50 years. Reporter Kate Fetterly has this recount of the details:
MARATHON OIL GIFTS $1 MILLION TO UW - TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19TH, 2008 - Marathon Oil Corporation donated a gift of one million dollars on Tuesday Morning to support energy education and research programs at the University of Wyoming. Marathon's Vice President of U.S. Production, Steve Guidry says the gift will help the University's School of Energy Resources to meet the industry's demand for well-trained and highly educated graduates in the United States. He comments on the intentions of the gift:
POLICE TAKE CUSTODY OF SEXUAL ASSAULT SUSPECT AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE OVER THE WEEKEND - The name of the suspect in an alleged sexual assault case was published in today's Circuit Court Docket. 18 Year old DeAndre Taylor will appear before Judge John Sampson at 2 pm in District court at the Sheridan County Courthouse. Sexual Assault is a felony crime. The Sheridan Police Department reported to the Sheridan College Campus on Saturday morning following a call for assistance in an alleged sexual assault case reported to S C campus police. Enforcement dispatch received the call just before 4 am on Saturday. The arrest of an 18 year old male suspect was made at around 8:30 am later that morning at the Sheridan Police Department following a cooperative agency investigation. The suspect remains to be charged, likely on Tuesday in Sheridan County Circuit Court, where his name will be released. Until a suspect has been formally charged, that person's name will not be released, therefore, we will bring you an update in Tuesday's news. THE DEBATE CONTINUES OVER CITY ADMINISTRATOR POSITION - Monday's entire Public Pulse program on News/Talk 930 KROE was devoted to discussion on the city administrator position. The special referendum election on the matter will be a week from this Thursday. Parties for and against the position had the opportunity to explain and debate just why a city administrator for Sheridan is or isn't a good idea. Guest Vicky Taylor recently expressed concern with the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce's decision to publicly support the position. Chamber President Jim Schellinger says the decision was simple:
SENATOR BARACK OBAMA'S CAMPAIGN COMING TO SHERIDAN TOMORROW - Sheridan area residents will have the opportunity tomorrow to rally for Senator Barack Obama in downtown Sheridan. The public event will be held from 5 to 6:30 pm at The Book Shop, and will involve members of the Obama 2008 Campaign, offering a message for local voters.Volunteer and leadership opportunities will be made available, as well as the chance to ask questions and to learn more about Senator Obama's efforts. The Book Shop is located at 117 North Main Street in downtown Sheridan. EIGHT WYOMING LAWMAKERS ENDORSE SENATOR OBAMA - Eight Wyoming state legislators endorsed Senator Barack Obama for President Monday. At a media conference at the Obama headquarters, several lawmakers cited Obama's commitment to taking away power from the special interests and bringing real change to Washington D.C. State Senate Minority Caucus Chair Mike Massie from Laramie said Senator Obama has shown people across the country that there are important issues we can all unite around, whether it's increasing access to affordable health care or revitalizing our economy, and that he's the only candidate in the race who hasn't taken a dime from federal lobbyists or special interest PAC's." State House Minority Whip Debbie Hammons from Worland also spoke at the media conference, saying that Obama is a strong advocate for clean energy research, improving rural health care, and responsible leadership. The Obama campaign has recently set up four offices across the Cowboy State. SHERIDAN COUNTY DEMOCRATS ANNOUNCE DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL PARTY CAUCUSES - The Sheridan County Democrats have announced the deadline to register in order to participate in their local county caucuses in March. Sheridan County Democrat Party Chair, Carol LeResche, has this information:
CONFERENCE SLATED TO HELP WYOMING COMPANIES GAIN GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS - A conference for Wyoming businesses interested in exploring the realm of government contracts will take place Wednesday and Thursday in Cheyenne. The event is being sponsored by the office of U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, the Wyoming Business Council, and GRO-Biz -- the Wyoming Procurement Technical Assistance Center. GRO-Biz Director Pat Dotter explains at what kinds of businesses this conference is aimed:
SHERIDAN COLLEGE TRUSTEES VISITED WASHINGTON D.C. LAST WEEK - At last week's Sheridan College meeting, the college board heard a report from Trustee Walt Wragge about his recent trip to Washington D.C. Reporter Kate Fetterly was at the Board meeting and has the exclusive story:
SHERIDAN ANIMAL SHELTER TO HOST NASCAR FUNDRAISER - NASCAR fans listen up! The Sheridan Animal Shelter is holding a fundraiser this Saturday night, February 23rd, at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall, and they've gotten assistance from a whole lot of NASCAR greats. Shelter director, Cel Hope, explains how it all came about:
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2008 POLICE TAKE CUSTODY OF SEXUAL ASSAULT SUSPECT AT SHERIDAN COLLEGE OVER THE WEEKEND - The Sheridan Police Department reported to the Sheridan College Campus on Saturday morning following a call for assistance in an alleged sexual assault case reported to S C campus police. Enforcement dispatch received the call just before 4 am on Saturday. The arrest of an 18 year old male suspect was made at around 8:30 am later that morning at the Sheridan Police Department following a cooperative agency investigation. The suspect remains to be charged, likely on Tuesday in Sheridan County Circuit Court, where his name will be released. Until a suspect has been formally charged, that person's name will not be released, therefore, we will bring you an update in Tuesday's news. HOLY NAME CATHOLIC CHURCH TO ACQUIRE FORMER CENTRAL MIDDLE SCHOOL SITE - In a media release sent by Father Tom Ogg of the Holy Name Catholic Church, the church has reached an agreement with local real estate developer Paul Del Rossi that will enable acquisition of the former Central Middle School site in Sheridan.Citing the old age of the current school buildings and the optimum location of the CMS site to the existing school and the church, Father Ogg noted that the property is “ideally suited to serve the needs of Holy Name Parish because it consists of a single, contiguous parcel on which several uses may be integrated.”Along with the school, Ogg states that their long-term goals include “expanding the pre-school program and parish thrift shop, as well as doing what they can to create more and better housing opportunities for Sheridan's seniors and low-income residents.”We will have more on this story later today.
SHERIDAN RESIDENT SPEAKS OUT ABOUT HIGH COSTS OF HEALTH INSURANCE - Mary McDougall went before the legislators last month at the Legislative Forum to address her concern about the costs of health insurance. She was the only citizen to address the legislators on her own during the second day of the forum. McDougall gives her findings on the cost of health insurance:
CVC IS BRINGING A NEW PROGRAM TO SHERIDAN - The Center for a Vital Community, or CVC, is looking to set up what are called “Study Circles” for the Sheridan area. They will be holding a Coalition Dinner this Wednesday from 6 to 9 pm, in order to discuss and give a preview of the program. Jenny Craft, Executive Director of the CVC, details what the “Study Circles” are all about:
SUMMER INTERNSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS IN WYOMING AND WASHINGTON D.C. - United States Senators John Barrasso and Mike Enzi are offering summer internships to college students interested in witnessing how our national government works. Both senators have internship opportunities in Washington D.C., and Senator Barrasso is also offering internships at his Casper and Rock Springs offices. Interns for the Washington D.C. positions are responsible for a wide range of duties, including constituent services; U.S. Capitol tours; shadowing the Senators; and researching various issues. Responsibilities for the Wyoming intern positions include research; attending local events with Senator Barrasso; and performing other office duties. Interns will get a monthly stipend, and are responsible for their living expenses. Some colleges also offer school credit for these internships, and applicants are encouraged to look into the programs provided by each school. The deadline to apply for Senator Enzi's internship is March 13th, and the application deadline for both of Senator Barrasso's opportunities is April 4th. To learn more, contact Senator Enzi: www.enzi.senate.gov or call Sergio Lemus, intern coordinator, at 202-224-3424, Senator Barrasso: www.barrasso.senate.gov or Erin Cochran at 202-224-6441. WEEKLY POLL QUESTION INQUIRES ABOUT TAX ISSUE - With the Tax Season well underway, this week's Sheridan Media – Bank of Sheridan Weekly Poll Question asks: Are Wyoming residents taxed too much? What's your opinion?
SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL TO MEET TOMORROW NIGHT DUE TO PRESIDENTS DAY HOLIDAY - Due to the President's Day Holiday, Sheridan City Council will be meeting tomorrow night instead of tonight. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the preview:
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2008 WYOMING MAIN STREET OFFERS SCHOLARSHIPS FOR CONFERENCE - The Wyoming Main Street Program is currently offering a scholarship for people interested in attending the National Main Streets conference and Pre-Trip in Philadelphia from March 27th to April 3rd.
Evan Medley, State Program Manager of the Wyoming Main Street Program, summarizes which individuals should apply and gives a preview of the conference: BAUEN CAMP ANNOUNCES THAT APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE CAMP'S 8TH SEASON - Over the last seven years the Bauen Camp has helped young artists locally and from all over the world discover their creative and leadership potential to benefit their communities as well as themselves. Bauen Camp Executive Director, Jessica Holt, says they are looking forward to another exciting season: WYOMING PAPER AVALANCHE DANGER IS HIGH - There has been proposal after proposal for drilling projects in Wyoming, and this month alone, the BLM is asking the public to look over and comment on more than 17 thousand proposed oil and gas wells. This amounts to over two thousand pages of documents. These developments have resulted in the paper avalanche danger becoming “high,” according to several conservation, recreation, and labor groups throughout the state. Laurie Milford of the Wyoming Outdoor Council comments: HIGH-QUALITY HAY, IRRIGATED PASTURES SUBJECTS OF BASIN EXPO - Suggestions for producing high-quality hay and developing irrigated pastures are themes of the Big Horn Basin Forage Irrigated Pasture Expo Tuesday, February 19th, in Basin Wyoming. Sponsored by the University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension Service, the event is at the Big Horn County Fair Conference Building. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., and presentations end at 3:15 p.m. Lunch is provided. There is a registration fee. Speakers include among others, Fritz Schweitzer, past president of the National Hay Association. Schweitzer grew high-quality alfalfa in the Powell area for many years. He will present "Producing and Marketing High Dollar Hay." Roger Hybner, manager of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Materials Center at Bridger, Montana, will speak about "Forage and Irrigated Pasture Research." A $5 registration fee is being charged for those who pre-register by calling the Washakie County UW Cooperative Extension at Big Horn, (307) 765-2868; Park County, (307) 527-8560 in Cody or (307) 754-8836 in Powell; and Hot Springs, (307) 864-3421 or 5283. Registration is $10 at the door the day of the program. MOUNTAIN LION AREA 15 CLOSES - The Game and Fish Department wants to remind Mountain lion hunters that Hunt area 15 closed Thursday February 14th. The area closed because the harvest limit of 25 mountain lions was reached.Area 15 is basically the east slope of the Bighorn Mountains from U.S. Highway 16 south to U.S. Highway 20/26. Mountain lion hunters are reminded to check the status of their hunt area by calling the game and fish hotline at (800) 637-0809.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2008 LEGISLATURE TACKLING VARIED BILLS BEFORE ADDRESSING BUDGET - Yesterday we brought you a legislative update from Representative Rosie Berger, who told us that the 59th group of lawmakers hasn't even begun to address the 2008 Budget, which is the purpose of this session, because of the new bills that were introduced over the past week. We learned yesterday that the Smoking Ban bill failed, and Berger says: 02-16-03 Another big issue that has been put on hold for a time is illegal immigration: CAJUN BASH BENEFITTING FREE CLINIC IS TONIGHT - The Shrine Center on Loucks Street in Sheridan is the place you'll want to be tonight as the Free Clinic of Sheridan hosts its annual Cajun Bash fundraiser. Along with the outstanding homemade New Orleans-inspired, all-you-can eat buffet will be entertainment by NAMMY-award winning Gary Small and the Coyote Brothers. Gary tells us why he signed on to participate in this year's event COUNTY COMMISSIONER'S SPECIAL MEETING - A Special meeting of the Sheridan County Commissioners on Friday addressed several important issues, one which affects Developers in the County. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story: SEEDA APPROVES CMAR, LOOKS AT CONTRACT DRAFT - The Sheridan Economic and Educational Development Authority Joint Powers Board met on Friday to look at the contract language with Ed Armstrong and Associates for the new Hand in Hand Early Childhood Educational center. Reporter Kate Fetterly was the only media outlet on hand, and has the exclusive story: SPECIAL OLYMPICS JACKALOPE JUMP IS TODAY AT LAKE DESMET - Temperatures may not be as cold as on New Year's day for the annual Polar Bear Plunge, but nonetheless it's less than ideal conditions for taking a dip in the cool waters of Lake DeSmet. This afternoon Special Olympics Wyoming is holding the Jackelope Jump to raise funds for the program and Special Olympics Public Relations Director Erin Gamroth says the public is more than welcome to come out and watch: SHERIDAN COLLEGE SPEECH TEAM ONCE AGAIN GARNERS WINS - One of the biggest college speech and debate tournaments concluded this past weekend in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the eight-member Sheridan College forensics team returned with a second-place Sweepstakes win for two-year schools. Head coach Lillian Sager commended the teamwork the three sophomores and five freshman displayed, noting that the friendships they've developed have been an “essential contribution” to the team's success. Along with Sheridan College, other schools in attendance at the 47th United States Air Force Academy Forensics Classic were: Abilene Christian College, Texas Tech, Truman College, Rice University, Western Kentucky, Creighton University, Arizona State University, the University of Houston, the University of Wyoming, Colorado College, Utah Valley State College, Rocky Mountain College, Ferris College, Glendale Community College, Northwest College, and Casper College. The Sheridan College team will next attend Novice Nationals in Pensacola, Florida March 12th - 17th, and then return to present the culmination of the season's work at a free public showcase on March 21st at the C-Tel Presentation Hall. Here is a complete list on how people in the tournament did. David Demic: 2nd in Impromptu Speaking; 2nd in Dramatic Interpretation; 2nd in Duo with partner Katie Buffington; 5th in Extemporaneous Speaking; 8th as Top Speaker in Junior Parliamentary Debate. Aaron Graham: 1st in Extemporaneous Speaking; 3rd in Impromptu Speaking; 7th in Open Division Duo with partner Austin Bramwell. Rick Miller: 3rd in Duo with partner Alexis Jones; 5th in Open Division Informative Speaking; 7th in Open Division Dramatic Interpretation. Austin Bramwell: 5th in Open Division Dramatic Interpretation; 6th in Open Division Program Oral Interpretation. Ross Bunn: 4th in Impromptu Speaking; 4th in Duo with partner Michele Folster; 6th in Dramatic Interpretation. Katie Buffinton: 4th in Program Oral Interpretation Michele Folster: 4th in Persuasive Speaking. Ross Bunn & Aaron Graham: 3-3 win in Junior Parliamentary Debate; Rick Miller & David Demic garnered a 2-4 win. GIRL SCOUTS HONOR ADULT VOLUNTEERS -
The Girl Scout Council of Wyoming presented four awards to their volunteers from the Sheridan area at a recognition luncheon held earlier this month. One of the awards presented was the Circle of Honor Pin presented to Doris Case. Case has been involved in the Girl Scouts for about 45 years and has received other awards within the organization. The Girl Scouts' Outstanding Volunteer Award went to Bessie Moore, who has assisted local Girl Scout troops for four years. An Outstanding Leader award went to Janet Stacey; she is a co-leader of a troop as well as the product sales manager. The final award, the Thanks Badge II, went to Jean Harm. Harm began her scouting career in the late 1950’s, and became a Girl Scout leader in the early 1970’s. Harm explains what keeps her involved with Girl Scouting:
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2008 WYOMING LEGISLATURE FINISHES FIRST WEEK OF BUDGET SESSION; HAS YET TO ADDRESS THE BUDGET - The 59th Wyoming State Legislature finishes up its first week of the 2008 Budget Session today, and lawmakers haven't even yet looked at the budget. Representative Rosie Berger explains:
CITY OF SHERIDAN ACKNOWLEDGES SNOW MANAGEMENT ISSUE - In light of our Sheridan Media/Bank of Sheridan weekly poll question, which asks about the plowing of city streets, we opted to speak with the City of Sheridan about how they determine plowing procedures for all of the city streets. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details:
CITY GETS A “C” FOR CONDITIONS OF THE STREETS - The City Of Sheridan held a City Council work session yesterday to look at the results of the “Bump Truck” report from last year. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the exclusive story: SHERIDAN COUNTY FAIR BOARD GETS UPDATE ON MASTER SITE PLAN AND IS LOOKING FOR SOME ADDITIONAL MEMBERS - The Sheridan County Fair Association Board of Trustees held their February meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details:
NORTHERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT – SHERIDAN COLLEGE BOARD REPORT - The Valentine's Day meeting of the Northern Community College District was filled with lots of information. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details:
SHERIDAN COLLEGE PART II - At Thursday's Northwest Community College Board meeting, trustees heard a report from Sheridan College Foundation President Susan Bigelow about additional funding. Bigelow herself was unavailable at the end of the meeting, but S. C. President Dr. Kevin Drumm explains how the funding came about for the College:
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2008 WE'LL HEAR FROM SEVERAL DIFFERENT AGENCIES REGARDING HOW THEY'VE BEEN HANDLING THE “SATELLITE” SITUATION - The recent arrest and conviction of Justin Darricotte, better known as “Satellite”, for trespassing on the Rock Stop property is just one more unusual incident involving the 48-year-old homeless man who has taken up residence near the I-90 East 5th Street on- ramp for the past three months. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more:
WE'VE GOT THE THE TICKET SALES SCHEDULE FOR THIS YEAR'S SHERIDAN WYO RODEO - Tickets for the 2008 Sheridan Wyo Rodeo will be available for purchase in a number of different ways. Rodeo Board member Tom Ringley with the details:
SAWS LOOKS AT RULE CHANGE OPTIONS - The Sheridan Area Water Supply Joint Powers Board, or SAWS, met last night to consider options for additional rule changes. The board is looking at a variety of rule adjustments, explains SAWS Administrator, Jay Stender:
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MONTHLY LUNCHEON FEATURED RIO TINTO ENERGY AMERICA - February's Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce monthly Business & Bites luncheon introduced attendees to the Spring Creek Coal mine in Decker, Montana. Reporter Kate Fetterly was there and has more:
SPECIAL OLYMPICS JACKALOPE JUMP IS THIS SATURDAY AT LAKE DESMET - Special Olympics Wyoming will be holding the Jackelope Jump this Saturday afternoon at Lake DeSmet. Director of Special Events and Public Relations for Special Olympics Wyoming, Erin Gamroth, on this unique fundraiser:
SENATORS ENZI & BARASSO REQUEST CONFIRMATION FOR DISTRICT JUDGE HONAKER - U.S. Senators Mike Enzi and John Barrasso asked the Senate Judiciary Committee to approve the nomination of Richard Honaker as U.S. District Judge for Wyoming. The Senators would like to have Honaker’s nomination move through committee and on to the full Senate for confirmation. Honaker, a trial lawyer from Rock Springs, was nominated by the late Senator Craig Thomas to fill the seat of retiring District Judge Clarence Brimmer in May of 2007. Senator Enzi explains why he feels Honaker is right for the position:
BARRASSO MAKES PROGRESS WITH WYOMING RANGE LEGACY ACT OF 2007 - U.S. Senator John Barrasso announced Wednesday that more than 1.2 million acres of the Bridger Teton National Forest and Wyoming Range are moving one step closer to receiving protection under federal laws. Barrasso elaborates:
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2008 SHERIDAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL ANNOUNCES CONTRACT EXTENSION - Sheridan Memorial Hospital Chief Executive Officer Mike McCafferty announced today that the Hospital has extended the date for contract negotiations on the offer to purchase an interest in the Sheridan Surgical Center. McCafferty says that Sheridan Memorial Hospital met with the owners of the Sheridan Surgical Center early last week, and he discusses the progress in the negotiations:
REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE FOR U.S. CONGRESS: MARK GORDON INTRODUCES HIMSELF; VIEWS - Wednesday brings us to the conclusion of our series featuring three candidates for the at-large seat of Republican Congresswoman Barbara Cubin. Mark Gordon is the final congressional hopeful, and Kate Fetterly has the story:
HIGHLIGHTS FROM GOVERNOR DAVE FREUDENTHAL'S STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS - In his State of the State address Monday before the 59th Wyoming Legislature began the 2008 Budget Session, Governor Dave Freudenthal described Wyoming as being in a good financial situation, but that restraint needs to used by legislators this budget session:
SHERIDAN RECREATION DISTRICT BOARD APPROVES FUNDING FOR VARIOUS ITEMS AT MEETING - The Sheridan Recreation District Board of Trustees held their February meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details:
SHERIDAN, BIG HORN HIGH SCHOOLS PREVAIL AT STATE ACADEMIC CHALLENGE - Sheridan and Big Horn High Schools came out on top at the 12th Annual Wyoming Academic Challenge held last Saturday at Sheridan College. Out of approximately ten schools competing, Sheridan High School Team #1, coached by Ray Olson, took first place overall, and Big Horn High School Team #1, coached by Nancy Merrill, took third place overall. Sheridan team members Levi Higgs, Megan Jenkins, Becky Rapf, and Jennifer Rogers took home a trophy, med als, and one-year full tuition scholarships from Sheridan College. Big Horn team members include Ford MacCarty, Rolf Schuster, Carsten Wills, and Kyle Burtis. Johnathan Cauffman from Riverside High School was named the top individual for the competition. The state finals will be held in March in Riverton. 12 large schools and 6 small schools will qualify, and an all-star team of four team members and two alternates will be selected to compete at Disney World in Florida in June. WYOMING WILDERNESS SERIES PART III - Today, we conclude a three part series which discusses the work of the Wyoming Wilderness Association in it's efforts to bring more declared wilderness areas to Wyomingites. Sheridan Media's Kate Fetterly has the story:
SCIENCE MUSEUM LECTURE SERIES CONTINUES TONIGHT - Geographer Jessica Salo's lecture on the “Geology of Iceland” starts tonight at 7 pm in the Mohn's Center at Sheridan College. This lecture is the second in the Science Museum Lecture Series, which will be presented throughout the semester. Salo spent June, July, and part of August of 2000 in Iceland studying the various geological structures of the country. Salo gives an overview of how her lecture will be presented:
VALENTINE'S DAY ARTIST RECEPTION AT THE SHERIDAN COLLEGE MAIN STREET LOCATION - An artist reception for local artist Steven Heil is being held in the SAGE Exhibit Gallery at the downtown Sheridan College location tomorrow evening from 5:30 to 7. The show, entitled “Storms,” will be in the Gallery throughout the month of February, and is open from 8 am to 5 pm every weekday. Heil gives a description of what kind of work to expect at the show:
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2008 WYOMING LEGISLATORS DIG IN TO ADDRESS $4 BILLION BUDGET - The 2008 Budget Session of the 59th Wyoming Legislature began yesterday. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson reviews the day with Representative Rosie Berger:
COMMITTEE FOR AN INFORMED VOTE AIRS THEIR CONCERNS ON THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR POSTION - We've heard plenty of opinions recently regarding the upcoming special election on the City Administrator position for the City of Sheridan, with most coming in the form of some kind of support. But what about those who don't support the charter ordinance? Several members from the Committee for an Informed Vote were guests on News/Talk 930 KROE'S Public Pulse yesterday to explain their disapproval of the idea. One of the chairmen for the committee, George Carter, describes the concerns after meeting with hundreds of people in Sheridan:
SCHOOL DISTRICT TWO ADDRESSES TECHNOLOGICAL NEEDS AT FEBRUARY MEETING LAST NIGHT - The Sheridan County School District Two Board of Trustees held their February meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details:
TREE AND SHRUB TRIMMING IN COUNTY RIGHTS-OF-WAY - Sheridan County wants to remind people that right-of-way strips along County roadways must be kept clear of trees and shrubbery for sight safety and Road and Bridge Department maintenance activities. Any trees or shrubs extending out into the right-of-way must be kept trimmed by the property owner. Property owners will be contacted periodically and made aware of encroachment conditions and appropriate mitigation procedures. Encroachment is to be corrected at the property owner's expense and will not be reimbursed by the County. There are numerous reasons for the county's right-of-way maintenance, but the biggest contributing factor is safety as trees and shrubs can cause everything from snow to drift on the roadway to hitting the mirrors and windows of snow plows and school buses. SHERIDAN PLANNING COMMISSION APPROVES MORE HOUSING LOTS - The City of Sheridan Planning Commission met last night, and approved the final plat for seventy-seven more housing lots in Sheridan. The additional housing go-ahead came by way of approval of the Woodland Park Subdivision Phase One, which proposes to subdivide some sixty-five acres of land located east of the existing Woodland Park School. The approval was granted with several conditions, the most apparent being that an access road be dedicated in the final plat. That road is to be either recorded in the final plat of the Woodland Park Subdivision, or filed in the final plat of the Adam's Ranch Subdivision, which has yet to be approved. The Planning Commission also approved the preliminary plat on the Cottonwood Point subdivision. This proposed housing offers a potential forty additional residential lots for the city located between Skinner and Park Streets, as well as adjacent to East College Avenue. That conditional approval was granted with some modifications, including annexing of a portion of a county road; additions to construction drawings; and scheduling public meetings for the neighboring residents to comment. Overall, land surveyor Bill Pugh comments that he's happy about both approvals:
REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE FOR U.S. CONGRESS: BILL WINNEY INTRODUCES HIMSELF; VIEWS - In part two of three in our look at Republican Candidates for the at large seat of Barbara Cubin, we interviewed Bill Winney. Winney introduces himself with this comment:
SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION HELD MONDAY ON RECYCLING - This week's Sheridan City Council work session focused on the recycling efforts within the City of Sheridan. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details:
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THIS WEEK'S POLL QUESTION INQUIRES ABOUT PLOWING OF CITY STREETS - In the wake of recent snow storms that have covered the Sheridan area with a large accumulations of the white stuff, the City of Sheridan has received criticism about where its crews plow the snow. This week's Sheridan Media – Bank of Sheridan Weekly Poll Question asks: What do you think when it comes to plowing in the city limits:
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2008 GOVERNOR FREUDENTHAL EMPHASIZES STRENGTH OF STATE'S ECONOMIC POSITION - Governor Freudenthal says he plans to accentuate the positive in his state-of-the-state address to the Wyoming legislature this morning, as signs indicate that Wyoming's economy may be slowing down for the first time in several years. The most recent Wyoming revenue projections call for essentially flat state income over the next two years. Freudenthal and key lawmakers all say that Wyoming doesn't have the money to expand state government programs as it has done over the past several years of the energy boom. But Freudenthal says he plans to emphasize that Wyoming is facing good times, adding that no state agencies are facing funding cuts under his proposed budget. Freudenthal is starting the second year of his second term. We will be checking in several times with the Sheridan delegation to hear updates on how things are progressing during the budget session, beginning tomorrow with Representative Rosie Berger on how the first day went and reaction to the governor's speech. REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE FOR U.S. CONGRESS: CYNTHIA LUMMIS INTRODUCES HERSELF, VIEWS - This past Saturday, the Sheridan County Republican Women heard speeches from three candidates for the at large seat soon to be vacated by House Representative Barbara Cubin. Kate Fetterly has the exclusive interview:
FREE CLINIC PREPARES TO HOST ANNUAL CAJUN BASH – TICKETS ON SALE NOW - It's becoming a welcome event to take the winter cold out of people's bones and raise money for a good cause. We're talking about the annual Free Clinic Cajun Bash, and Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson gives us a preview:
GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT ALREADY GEARING UP FOR SUMMER CAMPS - While we may not even be to the halfway point of February, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is already getting set for a number of outdoor camps this summer. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK RECRUITING FOR YOUTH CONSERVATION CORPS PROGRAM - Yellowstone National Park is once again taking applications for one of its more popular youth programs. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
WYOMING WILDERNESS ASSOCIATION DISCUSSES PROGRESS OVER THE PAST FEW DECADES - Although the current organization of the Wyoming Wilderness Association has marked their 5 year Anniversary, the work they started began long before 2003. Kate Fetterly reports on the history of the non profit organization:
SIFE WILL HOLD THE FIRST OF TWO ENTREPRENEURSHIP SEMINARS TOMORROW - The Sheridan College Students in Free Enterprise, or SIFE, will be sponsoring two Entrepreneurship Seminars this month, and the first one is coming up tomorrow at the C-TEL Presentation Hall at 7 pm. Tracy Dearinger, Business Instructor at Sheridan College, gives the layout of the first seminar:
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2008 BRAVO! ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS ARE COMING UP - The 5th annual Bravo! Entrepreneur awards are set to take place on February 26th at the Little America Hotel in Cheyenne starting at 5:30 pm. This event, which honors entrepreneurs throughout Wyoming, is sponsored by the Wyoming Business Report and First Interstate Bank. First, there will be a cocktail reception, then it will be immediately followed by the awards banquet. 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: WYOMING BUSINESSES REPRESENTATIVES INVITED TO SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE - U.S. Senator Mike Enzi will be the co-host at the 6th annual Wyoming Government Procurement Opportunities for Small Businesses Conference in Cheyenne at the Holiday Inn on February 20th and 21st. Enzi will co-host the event with the Government Resources and Opportunities for Business, also known as GRO-Biz. This event gives small business owners the chance to meet one-on-one with over 50 federal and state government agencies, and learn about government contracting. Among those who will be at the conference include representatives from the Defense Supply Center, Department of Treasury, Veteran's Administration, University of Wyoming, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The keynote speaker for the event is Sue Payton, the Assistant Secretary of Air Force Acquisitions. If you are interested in participating in the conference, or would like more information, contact Shannon at 307-637-5029 or go to www.gro-biz.com/seminars.htm SCIENCE MUSEUM LECTURE SERIES CONTINUES ON WEDNESDAY - Geographer Jessica Salo's lecture “Geology of Iceland” has been rescheduled for this Wednesday starting at 7 pm in the Mohn's Center at Sheridan College. Salo spent two months in Iceland studying various geological structures and mapped the surface of a volcano that erupted in 1973. Salo says that the landscape of Iceland is fascinating, as it has been shaped by glaciers, geological activity, and the Atlantic Ocean. The lecture will last about 45 minutes, and will feature photos and information about the Icelandic culture. This lecture will be the second in the series, and there will be five more throughout the course of the semester. The next lecture will take place on February 27th, and will talk about the “Trout of the Big Horns.” BIGHORN NATIONAL FOREST SUPERVISOR ANNOUNCES AWARD TO CLOUD PEAK CHAPTER WILDERNESS WATCH - The Cloud Peak Chapter of Wilderness Watch recently recieved an award signed by Bill Bass, Forest Supervisor. The Cloud Peak Chapter has volunteered hundreds of hours in the effort monitoring water quality over the last ten years in the Cloud Peak Wilderness. The presentation to the group marked the completion of the stream health monitoring project. The award stated that “establishing baseline water quality information...is important to our agency’s mission and that the Forest Service is grateful for the assistance over the past 10 years and the information that has been collected and analyzed, as it will be valuable for future monitoring efforts and evaluating the implementation of the 2005 Revised Forest Plan. Volunteers of the Cloud Peak Chapter visited 21 streams at locations within or near to the Wilderness boundary, collecting data and biological samples. The 10-year project was funded entirely by the Cloud Peak Chapter through fundraisers and grants. The group has also received the national Forest Service Chief’s award in recognition of its efforts. Chairperson for the Cloud Peak Chapter, Dalreen Kessler stated that volunteers will continue to collect data downstream from the sites that have been sampled, adding to the information available. The Chapter’s Secretary Karen Ferguson noted that the group was grateful for the award, but even more pleased that the hard work produced useful data for monitoring the natural resources of the Bighorn National Forest. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 09, 2008 NEW!! GOVERNOR'S WORKFORCE SUMMIT SET FOR LATE MAY - The fourth Governor's Summit on Workforce Solutions has been set for May 28th and 29th at the University of Wyoming. This event, sponsored by the Wyoming Workforce Development Council and the Department of Workforce Services, is designed to assist Wyoming businesses in developing solutions for the issues they face. This year's theme is “Defining Our Future.” This theme will feature topics like Human Resources, Customer Service, Education, Health Care, and many others. Jerimiah Rieman, key organizer of the Governor's Summit, gives the goal of this Summit: SENIORS GATHER FOR WINTER GAMES - Sheridan hosted the Senior Summer Games last summer and will do so again this summer, but it's Pinedale, Wyoming serving as host this weekend for the Senior Winter Games. Open to anyone in their “golden years”, the event is being held with the idea of keeping seniors active, says spokesman Ken Konicek (KAH-ni-check): GRANT FUNDS UW TRAINING IN OLDER ADULT CARE - The University of Wyoming has received a three-year, 75-thousand dollar grant to prepare social workers to specialize in older adult care.Social Work Professor Vicki Murdock says the grant is from the John A. Hartford Foundation. She says the university will develop a graduate education initiative to train workers who can meet the needs of older adults WYOMING SCIENTISTS JOIN OTHERS NATIONWIDE IN FIGHT ON AIR POLLUTION –More than 40 scientists from the Wyoming region have joined almost 600 scientists nationwide in sending a letter to Congress, asking them to be aggressive in reducing climate change pollution, and restoring already affected ecosystems. National Wildlife Federation Biologist Dr. Doug Inkley says Wyomingites are among the first to see the effects of climate change: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 08, 2008 WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT - There will be a high wind watch in effect from 6:00pm this evening until late tonight. Wind speeds will be ranging from 50 to 60 miles per hour. Meteorologist Brian Tesar, of the National Weather Service in Billings Montana, explains what is causing the wind:
SHERIDAN COUNTY FULLY COOPERATIVE IN SPECIAL ELECTION FOR CITY ADMINISTRATOR- Recently, there has been discussion that the city and county are conflicting when it comes to the special referendum election for the City Administrator Election. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details:
WEEKEND WEATHER OUTLOOK- Later tonight into early Saturday morning, an Arctic Front will move into the area. Though it should be short lived, the front will bring a significant cool down to Sheridan. Meteorologist Dan Borsum, of the National Weather Service in Billings Montana, explains what the front will bring:
SOME WINTER SAFETY TIPS FROM SHERIDAN FIRE-RESCUE - Winter brings with it a lot of hazards, and Sheridan Fire-Rescue is issuing some tips to help you keep safe. One big thing to have in your car is a safety kit in case you get stranded. Lorna Tucker, paramedic for Sheridan Fire-Rescue, recalls one incident in which the kit helped out two winters ago:
SHERIDAN HERITAGE CENTER ENTERS AGREEMENT WITH DENVER BASED MANAGEMENT COMPANY - Big news out of the Sheridan Heritage Center. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
SENATOR BARRASSO NAMED TO INFLUENTIAL COMMITTEE IN U.S. SENATE - United States Senator John Barrasso was named to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which oversees international treaties and foreign policy agencies of the U.S. Government. Senator Barrasso gives his feelings about becoming a part of this influential committee:
IRS WARNS OF SCAMS - It's once again tax season and the IRS wants people to know about a couple of scams that are out there. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more:
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 07, 2008 SHERIDAN RECEIVES 2.6 MILLION FROM SLIB FOR LANDFILL EXPANSION PROJECT - Sheridan Mayor Dave Kinskey called from Cheyenne Thursday morning to announce that the State Loan Investment Board has bestowed $2.6 million dollars in funding to the City of Sheridan to help with the $3.8 million dollars in costs associated with the Sheridan Landfill expansion projectReporter Kate Fetterly has the exclusive story:
COMMISSIONERS APPROVE RENOVATIONS, OTHER BUSINESS - At Tuesday's Sheridan County Commission meeting, commissioners approved several agenda items, one which changes the look of the first floor of the Sheridan County Courthouse, as they're planning to give it a face lift. County Administrative Director, Renee Obermueller, says that she, along with the first floor employees, are excited for the change:
SHERIDAN COUNTY COMMISSION AND PERSONNEL POLICY - At Tuesday's Sheridan County Commission meeting, commissioners approved an important change to the personnel policy which addresses the use of County-owned communications systems. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the details:
THERE ARE PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITIES TO GET INVOLVED IN THIS YEAR'S LEGISLATIVE SESSION IN CHEYENNE - We're just a few days away from the 2008 State Legislative Budget Session in Cheyenne. For those who simply cannot afford the time or money to spend the next month careening through the halls of the state capital to be involved in the process, there is hope. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has some tips on how you can stay in touch with the legislative process without making the trek to Cheyenne:
SHERIDAN EDUCATION ASSOCIATION ASKS LEGISLATORS FOR ADJUSTMENTS TO TEACHER BENEFITS - The Sheridan Education Association gave a presentation at the Legislative Forum last week to share their concerns about the funding model for teachers. Ed Fessler, a teacher at Sheridan High School, explains this funding model:
SHERIDAN COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES EMPLOYEE PROMOTION - The Sheridan County Fair Association has just announced that they have promoted within to fill a very important position at the Fairgrounds. Facilities Director Sharon Nadeau gives us the details:
THE FIRST SHERIDAN COUNTY SNOWPACK REPORT IS OUT - The first regular summary of snow pack conditions on the Tongue & Clear Creek drainages shows both near 90% of normal for February 1st. The Tongue is about 16% ahead of last Feb. 1st, while the Clear Creek is about 80% ahead. Total precipitation at the Tongue and Clear Creek snotel sites since October 1, 2007 is about 20% above normal for Feb 1st.February 1st snotel readings on the other major drainage basins around the state also show generally improved conditions when compared with recent years. Percents of normal range from 114% on the Little Snake, 113% on the Upper Yellowstone/Madison, and 108% on the Upper North Platte, down to 80% on the Belle Fourche , and 81% on the Upper Green. Additional snow pack and water supply information is available at http://www.wy.nrcs.usda.gov/water.html .
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 06, 2008 FIREFIGHTERS' AWARENESS SAVES BUILDING IN DAYTON - The Dayton Volunteer Fire Department reported to a fire at the Laundromat in Dayton on early Tuesday morning as one of it's firemen noticed smoke arising from one corner of the building. That fireman was driving by the Laundromat at 12:30 a.m, following responding to a car accident late Monday night. Dayton Fire Chief Charlie Lenhart comments on the extent of the damage:
DECISION AND AWARD FINALLY REACHED IN FIRE ARBITRATION WITH CITY OF SHERIDAN; FIREFIGHTERS UNION AWAITING LAWYERS' EVALUATION - Over a year's worth of arbitration between the City of Sheridan and the International Association of Firefighters Union, Local # 276 have come to an end this week as the City of Sheridan announced today that it has reached a “Decision and Award for 2007-2009 Fiscal Years”. Still up in the air are the hours of work, and considering overtime for the Division Chief, according to Local 276 Union president, George Neeson. The neutral arbitrator, former Wyoming Governor Michael J. Sullivan, issued the document containing the award and decision to local media outlets this morning. In the document, dated yesterday, Sullivan acknowledged the issue concerning work hours. He wrote, “...I would grant the City's proposal for a 27-day work period and provide for overtime for compensable hours in excess of 204 hours in the work period compensated at one and one-half times the employee's regular rate of pay...”As to whether or not the Division Chief should be salaried or hourly, Sullivan wrote: “...I find that while still a part of the bargaining unit, given the circumstances, the Division Chief should be an exempt employee paid a salary and not entitled to overtime...”According to Union President Neeson, the Firefighters Union members have yet to determine whether or not they're happy with the decision, he says:
CITY IS PLEASED WITH FORMER GOVERNOR MICHAEL SULLIVAN'S DECISION AND AWARD IN BARGAINING WITH FIREFIGHTERS' UNION - The city of Sheridan says it's pleased with the decision and award in the firefighter's union's contract negotiations over the past two years. Arbitration was conducted by Former Wyoming Governor Michael Sullivan, along with Thomas Kinnison and Robert McGregor. City of Sheridan Human Resources' director Heather Doke comments on behalf of the City: WYOMING SAWMILLS INCORPORATED TO LAY OFF 50 WORKERS - In a story we first reported yesterday, officials with Wyoming Sawmills Incorporated announced Tuesday that fifty of the company's Sheridan employees will be laid off this afternoon, following a decrease in housing demands across the nation. Reporter Kate Fetterly has the story:
CNZ WOOD PELLETS AFFECTED BY WYOMING SAWMILLS LAYOFFS - In a media release received just after 8 this morning, Sheridan Media learned that CNZ Wood Pellets, located at 932 KROE Lane, will be affected by Wyoming Sawmills temporary reduction in production. CNZ president, Orrin Connell, wrote that the company will remain open, but will reduce staff by four workers, leaving two full-time employees at the business. Retail shavings and pellet fuel will be available as they continue to produce with what raw materials they are able to acquire from the sawmill. Connell states that the company is actively looking for other sources of material for their fuel pellets and livestock bedding. They also plan to hire back the employees they lay off as soon as they secure another source of raw material. Prior to the sawmill's announcement, CNZ annually processed about 8,000 tons of their byproduct. TEEN CHARGED WITH THREE FELONY COUNTS IN DISTRICT COURT MONDAY - Sheridan resident Cody Amman made his initial appearance in Sheridan County District Court on Monday for three counts of Felony Larceny and two counts of Felony Wrongful Taking, or Disposing of Property. Amman was arrested for stealing a 2003 Chevy Suburban from Fremont Motors in Sheridan on January 31st. Sheridan Police responded to a report of a careless driver in a blue SUV that nearly ran over a pedestrian near Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Police located the vehicle unoccupied in the Sheridan High School parking lot. After determining that the plates on the SUV had been stolen, police waited until school got out to see who would enter the vehicle. When Amman did so, he was arrested. Further investigation led to Amman being charged with stealing two more vehicles from Fremont, one earlier in the month of January and one sometime in December. Each count of Felony Larceny is punishable by ten years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both. Each count of Felony Wrongful Taking or Disposing of Property is also punishable by ten years imprisonment, a $10,000 fine, or both. COUNTY COMMISSIONERS APPROVED AIRPORT GRANT REQUESTS - At the first February Sheridan County Commission meeting, the commissioners took a look at several grant requests created by Sheridan County Airport Manager John Stopka. The four separate grant requests were each approved by the commission, and relate to various improvement projects for the airport property. Stopka comments on what the first two approvals dealt with:
WHAT'S NEXT FOR SHERIDAN COUNTY'S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN? - Over the last two nights Sheridan County has held open meetings to update the public on the County's Comprehensive Plan and to let the public get involved in the planning process. County Planner Mark Reid on what the next step is now that they've had a couple of public meetings:
SHERIDAN COLLEGE DEBATE TEAM DOING GREAT SO FAR THIS SEMESTER - The Sheridan College Debate Team has competed in two tournaments so far this year, and they have come out with impressive scores. The first tournament was held at Laramie County Community College on January 31st and February 1st, and the second tournament was at Hastings College in Nebraska on February 2nd. The team took second place in Overall Sweepstakes and second place in Individual Events at the second tournament. GAME AND FISH REMINDS PEOPLE OF THE DANGERS OF FEEDING DEER - The Game and Fish Department has some advice regarding wildlife during the winter months, in particular deer. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has the details:
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 05, 2008 WYOMING SAWMILLS INCORPORATED TO LAY OFF 50 WORKERS AS A RESULT OF NEW HOME SALE DECREASE NATIONWIDE - Wyoming Saw Mills Incorporated announced on Tuesday that it's laying off 50 of it's Sheridan employees on Wednesday afternoon, following a decrease in housing demands across the nation. In a report late last month, the U.S Department of Commerce reported that sales of new homes dropped by 26 percent in 2007, surpassing a 1980 record sales drop of 23 percent. Wyoming Sawmills Incorporated President Ernie Schmidt explains that the housing demand is directly tied to his industry:
SINGLE VEHICLE ACCIDENT KILLS 27 YEAR OLD SHERIDAN RESIDENT - The Wyoming Highway Patrol investigated a fatal accident on Monday night which resulted in the death of 27 year old Michael Chase of Sheridan. According to the report, Chase was alone as he drove his 2007 Ford Pickup eastbound on Wyoming Highway 345. His vehicle came upon a “T” intersection about 7 miles East of Ranchester, at the junction with a Sheridan County road with a stop sign. He apparently failed to stop at the stop sign going through the intersection. His vehicle vaulted 76 feet off the shoulder and impacted a stand of trees. Chase was not wearing his seatbelt, and died at the scene. During the crash the airbags in his vehicle did deploy. Troopers investigating this crash will be looking into alcohol use as a contributing factor in this crash. SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL AWARDS BID FOR SHERIDAN LANDFILL IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT - Sheridan's City Council met for their first February meeting last night. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details:
CITY OF SHERIDAN KEEPS IT SAFE WITH “SHARP” - City of Sheridan Human Resources Director Heather Doke addressed the Sheridan City Council Monday night to fill them in on the Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program in which the City is now taking part. Doke explains how they got involved in the program:
FELONY DRUG CHARGES FOR SHERIDAN AREA MAN YESTERDAY - In Sheridan Circuit Court yesterday, Circuit Court Magistrate, Carol Doughty, heard the initial appearance of Warren John Kilby on two felony counts of delivery of a controlled substance. Kilby was arrested as the result of the disposition of a confidential informant to the Wyoming Department of Criminal Investigation. The informant identified Kilby as a distributor of marijuana who operated from his South Sheridan Avenue apartment.Kilby was known to distribute the illegal substance in quarter-ounce increments to several individuals, including Matthew Couch and Julia Lick, who each appeared before Judge Sampson yesterday. Lick was cited with possession of a controlled substance and child endangerment, as DCI agents discovered a pipe and a small amount of marijuana at her Sheridan home where her two youngest children were present. Others who received the drug from Warren Kilby were Jake Husske, who has yet to appear in court, and Daniel Hemmer, who is set to appear on February 21st.Kilby identified those individuals following an investigation by three Wyoming DCI agents on January 31st.Kilby faces up to $25,000 dollars in fines, up to twenty years imprisonment, or both for each felony count against him. ENZI URGES COLLEAGUES TO DO SOMETHING TO FIX HEALTHCARE SITUATION - U.S. Senator Mike Enzi recently urged his colleagues in the Senate to do something, anything, to fix the health care crisis in America. Enzi made his case on the Senate floor and reiterated his ten-step health care plan to make health care and health insurance more affordable and accessible to Americans. Senator Enzi says a lot of hard work has been put into this ten-step plan:
WYOMING GIRLS SCHOOL GIVE UPDATE ON CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECT - During the Sheridan County Legislative Forum last week, the delegation to the Wyoming Legislature was able to meet with Wyoming Girls School Superintendent Clark Fairbanks and his staff to hear an update on Capital Construction plans. Superintendent Fairbanks describes what they shared:
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 04, 2008 RECYCLED GLASS COMING TO SHERIDAN - The City of Sheridan will soon be able to recycle glass containers as a result of a new machine to be approved at tonight's city Council meeting. Reporter Kate Fetterly with the details:
ABSENTEE BALLOTS OKAYED BY WYOMING SECRETARY OF STATE - Wyoming's Secretary of State Election Director has given the “okay” for City of Sheridan Clerk- Treasurer Art Elkins to allow the use of Absentee Ballots for the upcoming referendum election on Charter Ordinance 1, to establish the City Administrator Position. Elkins explains what action he's taking in the wake of Friday's phone call:
NTSB ISSUES PROBABLE CAUSE REPORT FOR DAYTON CIVIL AIR PATROL CRASH OF LAST AUGUST - The National Transportation Safety Board has issued its Probable Cause Report for the August 20th crash which killed two Sheridan Civil Air Patrol crew members, and the pilot, who was from Cowley. According to the report, the NTSB determined that the crash was caused by “the pilot's inability to maintain control of the aircraft while maneuvering in mountainous terrain due to gusty wind conditions and lee-side turbulence.” The report also said that “Contributing to the accident was the pilot's improper in-flight planning and decision making, and his failure to follow operational procedures regarding altitudes flown.” The Civil Air Patrol plane was operating a search and rescue mission for a missing hiker who was later located alive. As a result of a witness report, the burning wreckage was located that same evening on the eastern down sloping face of a mountainous canyon that was thick with vegetation. NTSB Investigators determined that the airplane was destroyed by fire. They also said that nothing abnormal was found in the airplane's systems. An AIRMET, or Airmen's Meteorological Information, for moderate low-level turbulence was issued for the area. Wind gusts there were recorded as gusting up to 25 miles per hour. Search & Rescue Mission procedures state that the pilot should adjust the search altitude based upon the winds aloft; 10 knots of wind would require an addition of 1,000 feet to the search altitude and 20 knots of wind would require an addition of 2,000 feet.The pilot reported on his mission planning statement that his search altitude would be 1,000 feet.
REPORTS OF MRSA AT SHERIDAN HIGH SCHOOL MAY HAVE PARENTS CONCERNED, BUT HEALTH OFFICIALS STRESS THERE'S NO REASON TO PANIC - There have been some recent reports of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus arureus or MRSA showing up at Sheridan High School. Health officials want to get the word out that there is no reason to be overly concerned, as knowing just what MRSA is and taking steps to prevent it is the big issue when dealing with this problem. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more:
SHERIDAN COUNTY TO HOLD TWO COMPREHENSIVE PLAN MEETINGS OVER THE NEXT TWO EVENINGS - Sheridan County is in the process of updating their Comprehensive Plan and will be holding public meetings tonight and tomorrow night. Sheridan County Planner Mark Reid with the details:
ATTORNEY & ASSESSORS OFFICE NEW & TEMPORARY LOCATIONS - If you're going to the County Assessor's Office or the County Attorney's office, you may get confused, as they are in new locations. The County Attorney's Office is now at 148 S. Brooks Street, (formerly Dr. Strahan's office) across the street from the Sheridan County Courthouse. We'll let you know when to expect an open house celebration for the new office. And while renovations are taking place on the first floor of the County Courthouse, the Assessor's office is temporarily housed on the fourth floor of the Courthouse addition. THIS WEEK'S POLL QUESTION ASKS ABOUT THE SELECTION OF THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR - The City Council is allowing a referendum election for city residents to vote on whether to create the position of City Administrator, which will take place on February 28th. Some residents have raised concerns about who would choose the Administrator in our sheridanmedia.com Poll Question forum. So we decided to ask you what you think in this week's Sheridan Media and Bank of Sheridan Weekly Poll Question: “Do you favor allowing the Mayor and City Council that will be elected in November to select a new City Administrator?”
ARCH COAL SAYS DEMAND MAY RISE FOR WYOMING COAL - GILLETTE, Wyo. (AP) - The head of Arch Coal says international demand may increase coal exports from northeastern Wyoming. Steve Leer is chairman and chief executive officer of the St. Louis-based company. Speaking to analysts on Friday, he said Arch Coal is in serious discussions to move coal from Wyoming's Powder River Basin to the Gulf Coast and West Coast. Leer says that global demand for coal is growing at a staggering rate, up 30 percent in the last five years. That demand, together with the weak U.S. dollar, has helped to drive coal exports. Leer says Wyoming coal may move through ports at New Orleans, Louisiana and Vancouver, Canada, but he said capacity at the ports has been a concern. Leer's comments followed remarks on Thursday by Peabody Energy officials, who also said they expect coal from the Powder River Basin to fuel the growing export market.
Sunday, FEBRUARY 03, 2008 A RELATIVELY SHORT BUT VARIED AGENDA AWAITS SHERIDAN CITY COUNCIL TOMORROW NIGHT - Time is flying by, as the Sheridan City Council prepares to meet for their first February meeting already, scheduled for tomorrow night. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson brings us a preview: WYOMING FARM BUREAU RECIEVES PRESTIGIOUS AWARD - The Wyoming Farm Bureau was recently awarded the American Farm Bureau Federation President's Award for Public Relations and Information and also received an award for excellence for Agricultural education and promotion at the annual AFBF meeting. The annual AFBF meeting recognized outstanding membership achievements and outstanding programs serving Farm Bureau members in 2007. Wyoming Farm Bureau President Perry Livingston accepted the awards and said that it is an honor to be chosen as the recipient of both these prestigious awards and that he looks forward to big things in 2008. Wyoming Domestic Violence Snapshot: 349 Calls for Help in a Day - On a typical Wyoming day, over 300 domestic violence victims call for help, and assistance programs have been known to have a hard time keeping up with demand. This information comes according to a new report. Domestic violence programs tracked statewide requests for help one day last September, and in 24 hours, 349 victims asked for help, and 61 couldn’t be helped right away because of lack of money and staff. Donna Howard with the Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault says even the state’s oil and gas boom affects whether a victim can get emergency shelter. JENTEL PRESENTS IS BACK PART 2 - Yesterday, we told you about the Jentel Foundation's Artist Residency Program, and the exhibit, “Jentel Presents,” which features the artists from the Program. To finish our two part series, Sheridan Media's Crystal Hoffman will introduce you to some of the artists who are currently in the Residency:
Saturday, FEBRUARY 02, 2008 STUDENT COUNCIL ADDRESSED PAWS TESTING, ROSIE BERGER COMMENDS THEIR EFFORTS - The Sheridan High School Student Council attended the Legislative Forum this past week, which was put on by the Governmental Affairs Committee of the Sheridan County Chamber Commerce. The Student Council had two main topics that they felt needed improving. One of those topics being the Hathaway Scholarship. Student Body President Jennifer Rodgers explains some of the problems with the Hathaway requirements: HOW TO KEEP FROM SPREADING THE FLU AROUND - It is the time of year when influenza, or the flu, can strike at anytime. There have been 300 cases reported statewide so far, which higher than this time last year. To avoid getting the flu, the best option is to get the influenza vaccine. But how do we prevent spreading the flu to those who didn't get vaccinated? Dr. Brent Sherard, Director of the Wyoming Department of Health, tells us: BEWARE OF ANOTHER PHONE SCAM - There are always phone scams occurring around the country, initiated by people trying to steal your identity. This scam however, might trick Sheridan residents more easily than others because of recent events. Sheridan County Sheriff Dave Hofmeier details the scam: JENTEL PRESENTS IS BACK AFTER A SHORT BREAK - After a cleaning and maintenance break in January, the Jentel Foundation is presenting a new line of resident artists to the public. Sheridan Media's Crystal Hoffman has the first part of this two part series: KATRINA REYNOLDS HAD HER DAY IN COURT EARLIER THIS WEEK - Earlier this week Katrina Reynolds appeared in Municipal Court on charges of indecent exposure after being arrested at the intersection of Main and Brundage Street Monday afternoon. Reynolds plead guilty and received 10 days in jail with 5 suspended and credit for two days served. She was also placed on 6 months unsupervised probation. The incident that lead to the arrest and following incarceration of Reynolds involved her “flashing” an on duty Sheridan Police Officer while on patrol in the area.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 01, 2008 GOVERNOR ADDRESSES FUNDING ISSUES AT COLLEGE YESTERDAY - Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal attended a presentation at the Sheridan College C TEL yesterday which unveiled the final design proposal for on campus housing and for the Big West Center for the Creative Economy. Nearly all 263 seats at the C TEL were filled as the Governor spoke about issues concerning how Capital Construction projects are funded at each of the 7 Wyoming Community Colleges. Sheridan College President Dr. Kevin Drumm explains more about what the Governor said: FIRE AT LOCAL HOTEL CAUSED BY CHARCOAL GRILL - Sheridan Fire-Rescue responded to a reported fire near room 203 at the Best Western Sheridan Center at 7:29 Thursday evening. When crews arrived, they discovered that the fire was actually somebody using a charcoal grill who had used an excessive amount of lighter fluid. The fire was brought under control prior to arrival of the Fire Department and no damage was done to the structure. Sheridan Fire Rescue wants to remind people that the use of charcoal grills and other open flame cooking devices on balconies or within 10 feet of apartment and motel buildings is prohibited by the Fire Code. However, citations are not likely to be issued for this incident. GOVERNOR DAVE FREUDENTHAL ENJOYED VISIT TO SHERIDAN YESTERDAY - Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal visited Sheridan yesterday, and took a look at several facets of the community. Sheridan Media's Mary Jo Johnson with this report:
GOVERNOR DISCUSSES STATE EMPLOYEE RECLASSIFICATION ISSUES - Yesterday, we told you that state employees are upset about the long process in reclassifying the pay scale at a state level. During his visit to Sheridan Thursday, reporter Kate Fetterly caught up with Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal, and has this story:
CITY ADMINISTRATOR ELECTION IS LESS THAN A MONTH AWAY AND THERE ARE STILL SOME QUESTIONS LEFT TO BE ANSWERED - Whether or not the City of Sheridan will have a City Administrator remains to be seen, as that will be left up to the people of Sheridan in less than a month with a special election. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter has more on a topic that has sparked many a debate over the last few months:
TRAUNER TAKES LEAD IN RACE FOR WYOMING’S HOUSE SEAT - A recent independent poll in Wyoming, conducted for the Casper Star Tribune, demonstrates that Gary Trauner is strongly positioned to win Wyoming’s lone seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Trauner enjoys high name recognition and leads every other potential opponent in the race. While the poll numbers may shake up the conventional wisdom, they did not come as a surprise to Trauner:
SCHOOL DISTRICT TWO TRUSTEES HELD SPECIAL MEETING YESTERDAY - The Sheridan County School District Two Board of Trustees held a special meeting yesterday to hash out some contractual issues in regard to the new Woodland Park School. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter was there and has the details:
PUBLIC ARTS COMMITTEE IS LOOKING FOR ART TO PUT DOWNTOWN IN - Every June, the Public Arts Committee puts up new art in Downtown Sheridan that is on loan from the artists in order to beautify Sheridan and to give artists a venue from which to sell their work. Fachon Wilson, the Public Arts Committee Chair, describes how they pick the art that is displayed:
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