The Sweetwater County Fair Brings Top Entertainment At A Bargain Price

Final preparations for Wyoming's Big Show, the Sweetwater County Fair at the Sweetwater Events Complex are taking place today. According to Chad Banks with the Events Complex, the events kick off bright and early tomorrow morning. Starting at 9 AM and throughout the day, the 4-H horse show, poultry and rabbit judging takes place, but the big show also includes top notch live entertainment.






Banks says you can't get a better deal on live entertainment than at the fair.






Some of the live acts throughout the day include Reptile Adventures, Juggling by Paul Isaak, Brandi and Sweetwater, Nick's Kid Show, Wild About Monkeys and the Copper Mountain Band. Oh yeah, and the carnival opens at 6 PM. Daily unlimited ride passes are available for $30 on-site or $20 in advance through today only at the Rock Springs and Green River Chambers of Commerce.

New Landfill Hours

The landfill in green river will have new hours come August 1st. Mary Lou Holcome says the news hours will be Monday through Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

B-L-M policy on sage grouse

Birds don’t choose where they live based on lines drawn on a map. That's the basis of a new B-L-M policy on sage grouse – which have been studied for a possible Endangered Species Act listing because of declining numbers. Previous policy focused on each B-L-M district and even state lines. Wildlife biologist Erik Molvar with the Biodiversity Conservation Alliance says looking at the entire range all-at-once is the right thing to do.






Sage grouse require undisturbed ranges that include sagebrush and grasses, and open areas for nesting season. Molvar says even though sage grouse conservation has at times been controversial, he thinks the success possible with the new policy is something everyone can agree on.






Molvar’s group was the first to propose the concept of managing habitat for sage grouse based on their entire range. The state of Wyoming proposed a similar plan, but Molvar says there were too many loopholes to ensure the bird population would grow.

Operation Gorge Rush Was All About Boating Safety

Last weekend, the Sweetwater County Sheriff's office joined forces with the Daggett county Sheriff's office and the United States Coast Guard and other agenices to promote boating safety on Flaming Gorge. During Operation Gorge Rush, pairs of guardsmen teamed up with federal, county and state officers on local patrol boats to perform safety checks on the water.






Blust says a termination can have serious consequences.






In addition to the Coast Guard and Daggett and Sweetwater County Sheriff's Offices, the United States Forest Service, and the Utah Division of Wildlife also participated in the event.

Investigation into Sweetwater Sheriff's Office

According to a news release from Sweetwater County Attorney Brett Johnson, The Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office is under investigation from the Wyoming Department of Criminal Investigation. At issue is some conflict of interests that prevented an investigation from occurring locally. Specifics about the focus of the investigation were not mentioned in the news release.

Las Vegas Truck Driver Found Dead East of Rock Springs

Sweetwater County officials are investigating the death of a Nevada truck driver whose body was found in the cab of his truck on July 22nd. Detective Dick Blust, Jr. of the Sweetwater County Sheriff's office says the man has been identified as 66 year old Harry Eugene Orcutt of Las Vegas.






Orcutt was found slumped in the cab of his truck. According to Sweetwater County Coroner Dale Majhanovich, he had died of a heart condition. His light blue Peterbilt semi tractor-trailer rig was found on the shoulder of the westbound lane of Interstate 80 about 15 miles east of Rock Springs. The investigation is ongoing although no foul play is suspected.

Lieutenant Bob Mizel Retiring

Lieutenant Bob Mizel of the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, who is retiring this month, recently received a Distinguished Service Medal from Sheriff Rich Haskell.
In a meeting before the Sweetwater County Commission, where he made the presentation, Haskell described Mizel’s highly distinguished law enforcement career. Mizel joined the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office 20 years ago and served his county throughout that time as a detective and special agent on the Southwest Enforcement Team, a patrol division sergeant, and as a lieutenant in command of the Sheriff’s Office Detective Division.

Five Year Old Girl Left Behind By Parents On I-80

It was a scene out of a comedy movie, but the end result could have been very serious. A five year old girl was left along an exit on I-80 west of Green River when her parents stopped for a "potty" break and did not realize the girl did not get back into the white van they were driving. Detective Dick Blust with the Sweetwater County Sheriff's office says Corporal Matt Bartolotta was able to calm the frightened girl while contact was made with her parents.






Her parents were finally contacted both by cell phone and by being pulled over 130 miles away at Rawlins.






According to Bartolotta, there were close to ten other children in the van. Once he confirmed the parents' identities and observed the little girls' joy at seeing them, Bartolotta turned the little girl over to them.

State Tourism Dollars Could Be at Stake

The U-S House is set to make a budget decision this week that could mean less money for Wyoming recreation and tourism projects. The Interior Department budget bill ‘de-funds’ the Land and Water Conservation Fund – bringing it to its lowest level ever. Neil Thagard with the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership in Wyoming says it’s important to understand the connection between that funding and state economics. More than 70-million dollars has come to Wyoming from the fund over the years for parks, hunting and fishing access, and wildlife habitat…






A new national poll (Land and Water Conservation Fund Coalition) shows 88 percent of Americans support the funding, with no significant difference in that opinion by party affiliation or region. Thagard points out that the bill has another downside. It's attached with several riders that he says take aim at all sorts of outdoor attributes, like clean air and water…






The House bill would put the L-W-C-F at 61-million dollars, which Wyoming Congressman Cynthia Lummis approved last week. Full funding would be 900-million dollars. The L-W-C-F is not tied to taxpayer dollars, the money comes from a small percentage of fees from offshore oil and gas drilling. The House plan up for a vote would use those funds elsewhere in the federal budget.

Preparations Are Underway for Wyoming's Big Show

Billed as Wyoming's Big Show, the Sweetwater County Fair is just days away. Chad Banks, Marketing Director with the Sweetwater Events Complex says the preparations are heading into crunch time.






Banks says, so far, he has not seen any problems with the set up.






The Sweetwater County Fair kicks off this Thursday at 6 PM with the start of the Red Desert Roundup Rodeo that will run through Saturday. Then, on Sunday, the 4-H exhibitors move in and the Open Class and 4-H Horse show will take place all day beginning at 8 AM.

Cheyenne Frontier Days Gets Pelted With Hail Sunday Night

Those visiting the Cheyenne Frontier Days Sunday evening were pelted by hail that averaged in size from 1 to 1 and half inches across. The storm hit around 5 PM with a brief, violent downpour. According to the Wyoming Tribune Eagle, many participants in the rodeo took cover in the sponsor tent, bringing their horses with them. There was little damage reported and the Charlie Daniels Band with the JaneDear Girls took the stage with only a minor delay. The National Weather Service is predicting more thunderstorms across the area for the rest of the week.

Cheyenne One of Best Place to Love

AARP The Magazine, the world’s largest circulation magazine, named Cheyenne, Wyoming one of the top 10 most livable cities in America. This year, magazine editors considered a combination of affordability and quality of life when choosing communities for its annual Best Places list.
“The recognition of Cheyenne as being in the top 10 livable cities by AARP The Magazine is most welcoming news. Such recognition is testimony of the efforts undertaken by both the public and private sectors to build a strong and vibrant community,” Cheyenne Mayor Rick Kaysen said. “These efforts will be on-going to ensure the Cheyenne community moves forward. I am most appreciative, not only for the recognition, but the commitment and caring of Cheyenne’s residents and businesses.”
Local AARP officials are not surprised Cheyenne has won such an honor.
“AARP has been asking Baby Boomers about their wants and needs for nearly 30 years,” AARP Wyoming Director Tim Summers said. “Cheyenne meets many of the criteria for what Baby Boomers are looking for in a place to live. We have a low cost of living, no income tax, no taxes on pensions, low sales tax and one of the lowest property tax rates in the nation. We have a low crime rate, a small-town feel and one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, but we also have great amenities, like the Greenway, the Botanic Gardens, the Symphony, a fantastic library, and access to college-level courses at LCCC.”
Each of the 10 cities shares equally in the ranking, which includes, Cheyenne, Wyoming; Columbus, Indiana; Gainesville, Georgia; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; Ithaca, New York; Portland, Maine; Midland, Texas; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Wenatchee, Washington; and Winchester, Virginia. Descriptions detailing why each community was chosen is available online at aarp.org/bestplaces.
“More and more AARP members in Cheyenne tell us that they came here on vacation to Frontier Days, to hunt, to fish or to camp nearby and decided it would be a nice place to live,” Summers said. “Cheyenne is home to the AARP National Spelling Bee, which attracts spellers from across the country who consistently tell us what a warm welcome they receive in Cheyenne and how friendly and helpful people are to them during their stay here. It’s great that Cheyenne is getting the recognition it deserves.”

Poaching Incident

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) is asking for the public’s help in solving a poaching case south of Rock Springs.
Game Warden Jared Nelson received a phone call from a concerned citizen Thursday morning, July 21. Nelson investigated the scene and found one male mule deer with the hindquarters and skull cap removed. Nelson also found two dead sage grouse. The grouse and mule deer were most likely poached the previous day, July 20.
The deer and sage grouse were found approximately 1/4 mile south of Rock Springs off of US Highway 430. Nelson believes the animals were poached in another location and dumped at the US Highway 430 site.
Anyone with information on this or any wildlife violation can call Nelson at 307-875-3223 or report the violation to the Stop Poaching Hotline at 1-877-WGFD-TIP. Violations may also be reported on-line at http://gf.state.wy.us
http://gf.state.wy.us/wildlife/enforcement/stoppoaching/submitTip.aspx
A cash reward may be awarded for a successful conviction in this case.

Horse Dies At Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo

A horse has died at the Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo. This is second time that has happened in the last three years.






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Yesterday, a rookie saddle bronc named Check Mate suffered a back injury while being ridden by Luke Morgan of Weatherford Texas. The horse was around four years old. According to Cheyenne Frontier Days officials, the horse was sedate in the arena and removed by animal ambulance. He was then euthanized by a licensed veterinarian after the extent of his injury was determined and with permission by his owner. Back in 2009, a rookie saddle bronc named Strawberry Fudge died from neck and head injuries when it fell to its side shortly after the chute opened.

Wyoming Receives Federal Disaster Declaration

Wyoming has received a federal disaster declaration from President Obama. This is due to flooding, landslides and severe storms that occurred during May, June and July. The news means Wyoming will recoup some of the money spent on mitigation. The mitigation effort included proactive work by the Wyoming National Guard to protect communities. It also means several counties can receive federal assistance for repairing and replacing facilities damaged during the flooding, landslides or storms and for any other emergency work.

City of Green River has hired a new grant writer

The City of Green River has hired a new grant writer, Erick Pauley has more...

Frontier Days

Cheyenne's celebration of Frontier Days this weekend includes something extra to cheer about. The city is featured today (Friday) as one of the top ten 'most livable cities in America.' A-A-R-P The Magazine looked at a combination of affordability and quality of life in choosing communities. Cheyenne's cowboy culture, wide-open spaces and friendly neighborhoods boosted the score. Mayor Rick Kaysen is accepting the award on behalf of the city today...








Dale Steenbergen with the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce says the award is appreciated and the recognition is shared with all residents...







Other cities on the list: Wenatchee (weh-NATCH-ee), Washington; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and Midland, Texas. Cheyenne's bragging rights include a low cost of living, no taxes on pensions, the Greenway, the Botanic Gardens, easy access to hunting and fishing, and popular community events, such as Frontier Days – featuring the world's largest outdoor rodeo – and the A-A-R-P National Spelling Bee.

Cheyenne Frontier Days Kicks Off This Weekend

The world-famous Cheyenne Frontier Days kicks off this weekend. Here are just some of the highlights…






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The Cheyenne Frontier Days are probably most famous for the PRCA sanctioned rodeo. Last year, 83,000 tickets were sold just for the rodeo. Cowboys will be competing for more than 1 million dollars in prizes this year. Other events include their frontier nights performances including KISS with Alana Grace, Brooks and Dunn, Dierks Bentley and Miranda Lambert, Sugarland, Alan Jackson and the PBR Professional Bull Riders. And don’t forget the Grand Parade that takes place July 24th, 27th, 20th and 31st at 9:30 AM as well as numerous other activities. For a complete schedule, go to cfdrodeo.com.

Detention Center Misdeeds

The Sweetwater County Detention Center continues to draw heavy criticism from both employees and the Sweetwater County Commissioners. Serious allegations are being levied by former detention deputy Chris Hubert who says that a number of serious issues occurring at the detention center. One issue Hubert spoke about involves an alleged incident where male inmates were able to walk into a pod dedicated to female inmates. Hubert said the inmates had access through doors left open in the recreation area by a detention deputy and were able to cohabit for a couple of hours before being discovered after a lockdown was initiated.
According to Dick Blust, public information officer for the sheriff’s office, the detention center employee was identified and disciplined.

Back Country Navigation course

The Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office and Sweetwater County Library system are continuing to offer a Back Country Navigation course from July through October.
Sweetwater County Sheriff Rich Haskell and Library System Director Scott Kinney said the comprehensive one-day course is scheduled at the Rock Springs Library on C Street on July 23, the Sweetwater County Library in Green River on August 6, the White Mountain Library in Rock Springs on September 10, and once again at the C Street library in Rock Springs on October 1. All the days are Saturdays. The course begins at 8:00 AM and usually ends around 5:00 PM.
There is no charge for the training, which is limited to 25 people per class. Those who are interested can sign up by calling the appropriate library. Handouts, maps, compasses, and GPSs are provided, but people are encouraged to bring their own gear, as well.

Wyoming LEAD

Wyoming agriculture producers and agribusiness men and women are encouraged to attend the Wyoming L.E.A.D. (Wyoming Leadership Education and Development) Program alumni picnic to visit with past participants of the program and learn more about Wyoming L.E.A.D.
The free picnic will be held at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20, behind the Communicom building located along the river.
“This is a great way to meet other ag leaders from around the state who have taken part in what many have found to be a very beneficial program for those in our industry,” said Wyoming Business Council Agribusiness Director Cindy-Garretson Weibel. “I encourage producers and agribusiness professionals to stop by, enjoy some food, and learn more about this great program.”
Wyoming L.E.A.D., a 14-month adult leadership initiative designed to create an outstanding, highly motivated group of agricultural leaders in Wyoming, is currently accepting applications for its 12th class. The deadline to submit applications is Aug. 31. Interviews to select Class 12 participants will be held in September and applicants will be notified by October of their acceptance.

School District 2 Meeting Report

School District #2 met Wednesday night, Erick Pauley has the story

One Day Back Country Navigation Course Offered

A one day course could help you navigate your way out of a bad situation or, at least, the back country. Detective Dick Blust, Jr. with the Sweetwater County Sheriff's Office says his office and the Sweetwater County Library system are offering a Back Country Navigation course from July through October.






There is no charge for the training, which is limited to 25 people per class. Those who are interested can sign up by calling the appropriate library. Handouts, maps, compasses, and GPSs are provided, but people are encouraged to bring their own gear, as well.






Blust will serve as the instructor. He has trained hundreds of law enforcement officers, search and rescue personnel, and general outdoors enthusiasts in Wyoming, Colorado, Montana, and Washington over the last 15 years.

Escaped and Recaptured Prisoner Now Formally Charged

A prisoner who escaped from Circuit Court in Green River last month has now been formally charged with escape from official detention. Detective Dick Blust, Jr. with the Sweetwater County Sheriff's office says the prisoner wasn't free for long.






In addition to his Escape charge, Wilson still has his original charges of multiple counts of burglary and larceny. He remains in custody at the Sweetwater County Detention Center in lieu of a bond totaling $160,000, cash surety.

City Council Report with audio

The Green River City Council had a lot on its plate Tuesday night, here's Eric Pauley

The Wyoming Business Council welcomes Dave Simonsen

The Wyoming Business Council welcomes Dave Simonsen as the new Business Ready Community/Community Facilities Grant and Loan Programs manager.
Simonsen came to Wyoming from Norfolk, Neb., where he worked for over 12 years in economic development at the community and regional levels for both Nebraska and Iowa. He also spent several years as the grant writer for a community college in Iowa prior to entering the economic development field.
Simonsen has completed the Economic Development Institute coursework through the University of Oklahoma and has a master’s degree in organizational management with an emphasis in entrepreneurial and economic development.
“I am extremely excited to have been given the opportunity to work with everyone in the state on the many great projects,” said Simonsen.

City Council

The Green River City Council had a lot on its plate Tuesday night, here's Eric Pauley

River Festival Duck Race Tickets Now On Sale

The ducks are returning to the River… well, at least, to the River Festival. The Green River Chamber of Commerce now has Festival Duck Race Tickets for sale. Brenda Holloway with the Chamber says there are great prizes for the winners.






Holloway says there are several places you can get your tickets.






The River Festival Duck Race will take place on August 19th at Expedition Island. All proceeds will go toward continued improvements at the Visitor Center.

Concealed Weapon Law Confusion

A new state law that allows residents to carry concealed weapons without obtaining a permit is spurring some confusion.
State and law enforcement officials are seeking to clarify aspects of the statute after several misconceptions surfaced in the wake of its going into effect on July 1.
Heather Calvert, a concealed firearm permit records analyst with the Wyoming Attorney General's Division of Criminal Investigation, said the state has gotten many calls and questions regarding the law changes.
She said the main mistaken belief is that Wyoming no longer will be issuing concealed-carry permits.
"That is simply not true," she said. "We still are issuing the permits, and we will continue providing that option."
Calvert said the state wants to also reaffirm that it remains illegal to take a concealed weapon into another state without a permit.

Wyoming Granted Permission To Enter Litigation Regarding Sage-Grouse

Last week, Wyoming received notice that a judge in Idaho had granted the state's motion to intervene in sage-grouse litigation. Judge Lynn Winmill is hearing a challenge to the US Fish and Wildlife Service's decision that listing sage-grouse under the Endangered Species Act is warranted but precluded by other higher listing priorities. Western Watersheds Projects is seeking a court order requiring the Fish and Wildlife Service to list sage-grouse. Wyoming asked to intervene to defend the Service's determination that listing sage-grouse is precluded by other higher listing priorities.

Name The Colts Contest Ends This Friday

The Green River Chamber of Commerce is holding a Name The Colts Contest for two colts located at the Green River Visitor Center. The colts are part of the wild horse herd that was gathered last year near Salt Wells and who are up for adoption by the Bureau of Land Management. Brenda Holloway with the Green River Chamber says the little horses are really in need of names.






Holloway says if your name is picked, you can even win a prize.






The contest runs until the end of the day this Friday. You can pick up a form or just fill one out at the Green River Chamber of Commerce offices. You can pick up registration forms at the Green River Chamber of Commerce located at 1155 West Flaming Gorge Way in Green River, or email your entry to office@grchamber.com.

Rodea Underway

It is the largest rodeo in the world with over 1500 contestants and started last night at the Cam-Plex Multi-Event Center in Gillette. The National High School Finals Rodeo (NHSFR) is the culmination of an entire year's worth of high school rodeo across the United States, Canada, and Australia. The rodeo runs to July 23.
At stake are hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships and National titles. Contestants come from 41 states, five Canadian provinces and Australia.
2011 marks the 9th year that Gillette has hosted the NHSFR, more than any other city. In 2012 the event moves south to Rock Springs, Wyoming but it will return to Gillette for the 2016-17 events.
Boys compete in bull riding, steer wrestling, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, cutting, and tie down roping. Girls compete in barrel racing, goat tying, breakaway roping, cutting, and pole bending. Both boys and girls compete in the team roping. In addition to individual events, competitors in more than one event can vie for the title of All Around Champion. two performances daily will highlight the student-athletes at 9 AM and 7 PM. Contestants will work during preliminary rounds to qualify for the Finals performance on Saturday night, also at 7 PM.

Reduce Family Stress

Take family stress down a notch today (Monday), by taking time to hug your kids. It's Global Hug Your Kids Day, started by former Businessweek columnist Michelle Nichols on the tenth anniversary of the brain cancer death of her eight-year-old son, Mark. She doesn't want anyone faced with a similar loss to regret not hugging their child, moreover, she believes hugs can strengthen kids and families.






Family development specialist Harriet Shaklee has tracked poverty and outcomes in children. She points out that families need support in tough economic times, because pocketbook stress can lead to erosion of parenting skills. Kids Count reports that about 12-percent of Wyoming's children live in poverty.






Nichols says it's easy to observe the day, but harder to do it every day, and her organization has issued a “30-Day Hug Challenge” as a motivator. Here's her technique...






This year's celebration comes amid tough economic times that can add additional stress to families. And tense budget debates have targeted family support programs for cuts at the national and state levels.

Music Business Seminar and Talent Search Offered at Rock Springs Public Library

If you have ever been interested in a career in music, a unique seminar will be held tomorrow night at the Rock Springs Public Library. Father Gabriel Farago, author of "Secrets to Success In Country Music" and a record producer will be holding a seminar beginning at 6:30 PM that includes a talent search. Father Farago says learning about the business is the first step.






A talent search is also part of the seminar. The talent search is also for all genres, but they cannot accommodate bands. The winner of the talent search will receive a recording/release on NSD Records in Nashville. The seminar is free and open to the public.

Wild Burros up for Adoption

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) High Desert District and the Green River Chamber of Commerce will be offering four wild burros and 42 yearling wild horses for adoption at the next 2011 Mustang Versatility Trail Ride Buckle Series tomorrow.
The BLM brought wild burros from California to offer for adoption. Two females called jennies, a gelding, and a stud (known as a jack) will each be offered for the standard bid of $125.
The 3-year-old red jenny burro is very friendly; she comes right up to the fence and wants you to pet her, says BLM Adoption Coordinator Kathi Fine. The BLM is also offering 27 fillies, and 15 geldings gathered last fall from the Adobe Town/Salt Wells Herd Management Areas for adoption.

Green River Offers Free Compost and Wood Chips To Residents

A cooperative effort by the city of Green River and the community including the local schools and even the Chamber has provided an opportunity for local resident to get free black gold for their gardens and plants. Linda Roosa, the Sanitation Supervisor for the city of Green River says the use of compost around your plants is one of the best things you can do for them.






While supplies last, residents of Green River are welcome to take as much compost and even wood chips that they need from the City's landfill.






To make the compost, sanitation has partnered with the Sweetwater County School District #2 for grass clippings and the city's parks division for horse manure from the City Horse corrals and branchers and tree trimmings. Local residents are welcome to donate as well, but need to call first.

For more information on drop-off sites, landfill hours, or any other information, call 307-872-0531.

Rafters Escape Injuries

A rafting trip Tuesday afternoon almost turned deadly for three people in the group. According to Detective Fred Moczulski, the Green River Police Department received a call about the rafters just after 2 p.m. and responded along with the Green River Fire Department. Once officers responded, they found the three to be already safe at home. Both Moczulski and Assistant Fire Chief Dea Cargile said it is not a safe time to be on the river. Cargile said the river is dangerous because it is flowing quickly and lots of currents have developed.

IAPSS System to be Installed

InterAct Public Safety Systems announced today the award of a contract to consolidate multiple public safety answering points in Sweetwater County, Wyoming.
PSAP consolidation is a growing trend across public safety agencies throughout the U.S. and Sweetwater County Sheriff Rich Haskell was enthusiastic about the decision. "We're facing many of the challenges that other counties face. Resources are stretched and budgets are limited. This installation will allow us to operate as efficiently as possible across the County to provide a superior public safety response."
According to Sweetwater Lieutenant Rick Hawkins, "Sweetwater County is the largest county in the State of Wyoming. In fact, we're the 8th largest county in the United States and cover more territory than 6 states in the U.S. We have to operate as efficiently as possible and this is exactly what we needed."
The installation will include an integrated platform providing computer-aided dispatch, geographic information systems, records management, jail management and unique mobile applications integrated with all systems

United Way of Southwest Wyoming Chosen For Reading Mobilization Group

United Way of Southwest Wyoming has been chosen to be a part of United Way Worldwide's Early Grade Reading Mobilization Group.
Kathy Tacke with the United Way of Southwest Wyoming says being chosen is a great honor for their organization.






UWSW has started tackling early literacy by bringing Dolly Parton's Imagination Library program to the Southwest Wyoming communities. Dolly Parton's Imagination Library is a program that delivers expert selected books to the homes of children between birth and the age of five at no cost to the parents.






Parents can enroll their children online for the program by going to swunitedway.org.

Rawlins Man Found Dead in Medicine Bow River

A Rawlins man who was missing in the Elk Mountain area has been found dead in the Medicine Bow River. At around 10:15 a.m. on Tuesday search dogs discovered the body of 34 year old Tom Richardson in the river. At this time, the death does not appear to be suspicious. Richardson had been missing since last Friday, when he wasn't around to meet a relative at his cabin in the Stillwater Park area in Medicine Bow National Forest. His body was found less than a mile from the cabin. Richardson is a 1995 graduate of Rawlins High School.

Wyoming Main Street Accepting Applicvations

Wyoming Main Street is accepting applications from communities interested in participating in its program which uses historic preservation to help revitalize local downtowns.

The Wyoming Main Street program helps communities capitalize on their unique downtown areas by using historic preservation to generate economic and entrepreneurial growth. The program comprises a two track system designed to meet the varying needs of communities across the state and minimize local costs. Communities may participate at a Wyoming Main Street Certified or Affiliate level depending on specified criteria for each track.

The Wyoming Main Street Advisory Board will meet in December to review applications for Main Street designations. Applications are due to the Wyoming Main Street office no later than Dec. 1. Interested communities should submit a letter of intent to apply to the Wyoming Main Street office by Sept. 16. The letter helps the Main Street office keep track of interested communities so as to help them through the application process.

Communities are chosen using criteria that evaluates a program’s organizational capacity, historic preservation ethic, and support from the community, among other criteria. Once an application is accepted, the state coordinating program acts as a partner providing training, information, research, referral services, and technical assistance.

Communities interested in participating in the program should contact Scott Wisniewski at 307.777.2934 orscott.w@wyo.gov. The application as well as information regarding the track system may be downloaded from the Wyoming Main Street website, www.wyomingmainstreet.org.

Wheatland Murders Hearing Canceled Because of Legal Filing

Lawyers defending Everett Conant the Third of Wheatland who is accused of killing his three sons and his brother, filed a request yesterday asking to suspend court proceedings against Conant while he receives a mental evaluation. Marsha Sears reports…






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Because of the filing, a preliminary hearing that was scheduled for Thursday has been cancelled. Wyoming law specifies that if there's reasonable cause to believe that an accused person "has a mental illness or deficiency making him unfit to proceed, all further proceedings shall be suspended." Conant's three sons, Joseph, Charles and Everett, ages 11, 13 and 18, were found shot to death in the family's mobile home last Thursday along with their uncle, Nacuma Roland Conant. Everett Conant's wife, Suzette Conant, was shot in the shoulder and ankle and was released from the hospital on Monday. Platte County Attorney Eric Jones said on Monday that he hadn't decided whether his office would seek the death penalty against Conant.

Governor Mead Asks for Presidential Disaster Declaration

Governor Matt Mead has asked President Obama for a Presidential Disaster Declaration. Marsha Sears reports…






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The dozens of landslides, record snowpack and extraordinary river flows have prompted the request from the Governor. An estimated total damage cost from FEMA is $4.2 million dollars. While the President would declare a disaster on a county by county basis, Governor Mead has asked for a declaration separately that is related to highway damage. Estimated costs for emergency repairs to highways and interstates is $2.8 million dollars with the cost of permanent repairs expected to be much higher. The requested declaration would be statewide. Governor Mead also requested U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to declare agriculture disasters in Carbon and Albany Counties. Other Wyoming counties are expected to be added as damages are determined.

Fatigue May Have Played A Role In Fatal Truck Crash Near Green River

Wyoming authorities are investigating whether fatigue played a role in the crash on Interstate 80 that killed a trucker from California. The Wyoming Highway Patrol said that 44-year-old Danny E. Gates of Upland, Calif. died in the crash Saturday around 6 a.m. on Interstate 80 near Green River. He was a driver for CR England. According to the Associated Press, Sgt. Stephen Townsend said Monday that Gates failed to negotiate a right-hand curve on the highway, ended up in the median and then rolled the truck partway onto the driver's side. Twenty-one-year-old Kyle Wanner of White Hills, Ariz., who was in the truck's sleeper, was hospitalized following the crash.

Bench Donations Pour In

Members of the Golden Generation Advisory Board (GGAB) in Green River sought donations for the purchase of several benches to install along Uinta Drive . and donations are exactly what the board received. Board President Ginny Edwards and Recording Secretary Pamela Spivack had initially written letters to the editor to the Rocket-Miner and Green River Star newspapers, seeking donations to purchase six benches to go along Uinta Drive to make walking more attractive for seniors.
As soon as the articles were printed in the newspapers, the money began pouring in for support of the bench project, says Ginny Edwards.
The GGAB exclaims that so many donations poured in that the amount has greatly exceeded the purchase of six benches. The board says that due to the support and generosity of the public, the City will have six additional benches to be installed.
The additional benches will be installed along the Greenbelt Pathway.

BLM and Green River Chamber Partnership Benefits Wild Horses

All this summer, wild horse adoptions will be available at the Green River Chamber of Commerce new visitor center. Through a partnership with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) High Desert District, the public will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the horses. Tyson Finnicum with the BLM says having the public interact with the horses is a bonus.






Finnicum says potential adopters must be 18 years of age or older and have no prior violations of adoption regulations or convictions of inhumane treatment of animals.






The horses are boarded and provided shelter north of the building. Currently fostered by Executive Director Janet Hartford, the mustangs will be kept on-site throughout the summer.

Mine Accident

An employee of American Colloid lost his hand in a plant accident last week. The employee's name has not been released. The federal Mine Safety and Health Administration, along with Wyoming mine inspectors, are investigating the incident.

Mouse Endangered

It looks like a tiny kangaroo...but it's a mouse, and it will soon hop back on the Endangered Species Act list in Wyoming. A U-S District Court judge made that call for the Preble's meadow jumping mouse, after looking at a 2008 Bush administration decision to split protection for the species along the state line between Wyoming and Colorado. Wildlife biologist Erik Molvar at the Biodiversity Conservation Alliance says the Wyoming population is the critter's best chance for survival...






Molvar notes that the mouse had been protected for almost 10 years in Wyoming before the 2008 decision, and there weren't any major conflicts with state or private development. He says the mouse's habitat is also recognized as beneficial for other Wyoming wildlife...






That kind of split policy was applied in several E-S-A cases, although all have since been dropped. The Preble's meadow jumping mouse will be back under E-S-A protection August 6th.

Forgery case bound over for trial; Victim was a Girl Scout troop

A local girl scout troop is the victim named in the case of Chiaretta Sherri-Lillian Johnson who is charged with two counts of felony forgery. Detective Dick Blust, jr. with the Sweetwater County Sheriff's office says the troop was duped out of $416.83 in May of 2010. Blust says Johnson's Forgery charges are part of a broader overall investigation.






Natasha Johnson told authorities that she believed her sister Chiaretta Johnson was responsible.






The cases have been bound over, District Court trial dates will be set. If convicted, Johnson could be facing imprisonment of not more than 10 year, a fine of $10,000, or both.

Live Bomb Discovered North of Rawlins

A live bomb was discovered in Carbon County on Wednesday and bomb technicians from Sweetwater County were called in to detonate it. Detective Dick Blust, Jr. says the bomb was found in a gravel pit about three miles north of Rawlins.






Carbon County Sheriff Jerry Colson asks that anyone with information about the case contact the Carbon County Sheriff's Office in Rawlins.

Retirement Package Doesnt Get Support

The Sweetwater County Commissioners decided not to pursue another early retirement program during a discussion Tuesday morning. The prior early retirement program didnt sit well with many so the idea was quickly dismissed for now. Commissioner Wally Johnson said, quote, " Our hands were absolutely tied with the prior early retirement program". Commissioner Gary Bailiff said he disagreed with provisions in the previous program which allowed some employees to retire after working less than a decade in the county and in some cases, to be rehired.

Accidents Happen, More than Once

How bad is it when the headlines read quote "the mayor's house hit again"? Well that seems to be the case after Olga Kristeck of Green River drove a Chevy Trailblazer into the home of Mayor Hank Castillon yesterday morning. The Green River Star reports that Kristeck is currently learning to drive, according to Cpl. Ken Yeager of the Green River Police Department. Yeager said Kristeck was driving down Idaho Street, when she panicked and hit the accelerator instead of the brake. She was cited for the mishap. This is the third accident that has happened at the mayor's home.

Council Report 2

A large government grant for Sweetwater county was the hot topic at Tuesday nights city council meeting

Authorities Warn Not To Float The Green River Now

The Sweetwater County Sheriff's office is, once again, warning of the dangers of floating on the Green River. Sweetwater County Detective Dick Blust, Jr. says the warning comes after the tragic death in Sublette County on July 2nd of a young boy after the canoe he was riding in capsized.







According to reports, the young boy was not wearing a life jacket. Blust says a personal floatation device could improve your chances of surviving, but, in some cases, it may not be enough.







Back on a June 15th, three Green River teenagers were pulled to safety from the River. Blust says what saved them was that they were wearing life jackets.

Green River City Council Report

The Green River City Council Met on Tuesday

Airport Construction

Local airport users should be aware that during trips to and from the airport on WYO 370, the Airport Road, they will encounter reduced speeds, flaggers and pilot cars while highway improvements are made to the highway and the Rock Springs Municipal Airport’s access road.
The project includes widening the existing highway, milling the surfacing off, culvert replacements, bridge rehabilitation work and paving.
In the upcoming weeks, the contractor will continue rotomilling the existing pavement and performing grading work throughout the project. While this work is underway traffic will be directed by flaggers and pilot cars. Speed limits will be reduced in areas where workers and equipment are on the roadway. Traffic through the project should expect delays and allow extra time to get to the airport.
The Rock Springs Airport is advising people flying out of the airport to plan to arrive at the airport at least an hour and a half early in order to get through the construction zone and still allow for the time required to check in and clear through the security area, and not miss their flight. WYDOT and the contractor are diligently trying to minimize delays that traffic encounters. During hours when construction activities are taking place, traffic going to the airport will be given priority.

Drug Bust

Four residents of Rock Springs were recently arrested following---what police are calling---a big drug bust on Uinta street in Rock Springs. (you-in-ta) Police say they have arrested 52 year old Phyllis LaDue and have charged her with cultivation of Marijuana, felony possession of marijuna, intent to deliver, meth possession, and use of both drugs. Police they recieved a search warrant for the LaDue residence, and once inside, discovered 99 suspected marijuana plants in various stages of growth as well as a significant amount of processed marijuana. In all, police say the street value of the drugs could be as high 250,000 dollars. Also arrested in the bust were Kelly Seiller for possession, Brandy Domson for possession, and use, and 32 year old Stephen Collins for possession and use. The total weight of all marijuana plants seized as well as the processed dope was approximately 40 pounds.

Registrations Being Taken For Green River Rec Department Summer Day Camp

The second session of the City of Green River Parks and Recreation Department Summer Day Camp is coming up. Katie Duncombe with the Rec Department invites area elementary kids to join them for a couple of weeks of fun.






The third session will begin on August 1st. To register for the second or third session, call 307-872-0514.

Wolf Legislation

Those ‘pro-wolf’ and those ‘anti-wolf’ have come to an agreement in Oregon, with a bill headed to the governor’s desk that’s being called a “first of its kind in the country.” The legislation is also being held up as an example for Wyoming and other wolf states. It includes county-led programs to decide compensation for livestock losses connected to wolves, as well as funding and guidance on how to manage wolves in a non-lethal manner around livestock. Bill Hoyt with the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association helped negotiate the deal...






Suzanne Stone with Defenders of Wildlife was also involved in the negotiations. She says it was important to make sure that everyone’s views were respected, science was followed, and that there was local involvement. She wants Wyoming to take a look at the results.






Stone says many tenets of the legislation are based on a similar law in Mongolia.

The compensation portion is something Hoyt says he really likes because it’s decided locally, and allows payments in areas of known wolf activity without having to go through the process of proving a wolf kill. He explains that sometimes can’t be done, because of decomposition or other factors.

Left Over Licenses

The calendar may read July, but hunting seasons are not far off and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) is reminding hunters that the time to apply for leftover licenses and a preference point for moose or bighorn sheep is now.
All Full Price Limited Quota and Reduced Price Limited Quota licenses remaining after the initial drawing will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis through the Department’s Electronic Licensing Service via the WGFD website, Department offices, at automated license selling agent locations or through the submission of a paper application to the Cheyenne Headquarters Office.
Full Price Elk, Deer and Antelope licenses will be available July 6 at 8:00 Mountain Time. The Reduced Price Cow/Calf Elk, Doe/Fawn Deer and Doe/Fawn Antelope licenses will be available July 20 at 8:00 Mountain Time. A current list of all leftover licenses available for purchase can be found at the Departments website http://gf.state.wy.us
Be advised that some of the leftover licenses are valid for hunt areas with private land and applicants must have permission to hunt on private land before applying for a license.
Hunters who did not apply for a moose or bighorn sheep license in the initial drawing, but want to keep accumulating preference points, may apply for a preference point only July 1 through September 30, 2011. The application form (Form 30) to apply for a preference point only is available on the department website. The price for a moose or bighorn sheep preference point is $7.00 each and there is no application fee to purchase a preference point only. There is a five-year waiting period for any successful moose and bighorn sheep hunter. Applicants may not apply for both a preference point and a bighorn sheep and or moose license.
Hunters are advised to read the 2011 Wyoming Resident/Nonresident Hunting Information and Applications Booklet for detailed hunting information. Hunting information is also available at the website http://gf.state.wy.us or by calling the department’s Green River office at 307-875-3223.

Wyoming Federal Lands Support More Jobs in the Nation According To Report

The use of federal lands in Wyoming supported nearly 130,000 jobs and generated about $29 billion in economic activity, more than any other state in a recent study by the Interior Department. Marsha Sears reports…






COPY:

Recreation, tourism and mineral development supported the most jobs and generated the most money in Wyoming, according to the report, which was released on June 22nd. Coal, gas, oil and other mineral activities supported more than 93,000 jobs and contributed $26.4 billion to the state’s economy. Recreation and tourism supported more than 15,000 jobs, the second-highest in the nation, and generated $1.19 billion. Wyoming’s No. 1 economic output ranking topped New Mexico, California, Colorado and Utah.

Grizzly Baiting Operations

As part of ongoing monitoring of the grizzly bear population, Wyoming wildlife officials are going to be baiting traps in the Bridger Teton National Forest. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department will start operations with traps set between July 6 and 25 in two spots near Moran Junction - the Blackrock-Spread Creek areas. The second operation will be in the Fox Park area of the Teton Wilderness between July 26 and Aug. 12.
Wildlife officials say warning signs will be posted in the affected areas. The monitoring is part of federal efforts to rebuild the grizzly's population. The animals are trapped, tranquilized, processed and released.

Forage Superbowl Challenge at the World Dairy Expo, Oct. 4-8

Wyoming agriculture producers are encouraged to submit hay samples to the state hay show at the Wyoming State Fair. The top five winning samples will automatically be sent to compete for cash prizes and recognition at the Forage Superbowl Challenge at the World Dairy Expo, Oct. 4-8 in Madison, Wis.

Interested producers must deliver their hay samples to the Ag and Natural Resource Pavilion at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas, Wyo., on Monday, Aug. 15 by 12 p.m. Judging will begin at 9 a.m. on Aug. 16.

While participation in local county fairs is not a prerequisite, Donn Randall, Hay and Forage program manager at the Wyoming Business Council, said competing in local fairs could allow county extension agents to transport hay submissions to the Wyoming State Fair, providing a convenient way for producers to submit samples for state judging.