KKTY News...
KKTY Noon News Thu 3/26/20
Converse County gets its first COVID-19 positives.
On Wednesday, March 25th, the Converse County Public Health Department and Memorial Hospital of Converse County received notification of 2 individuals that tested positive for COVID-19 at MHCC.
Both individuals live and work in NATRONA County. Both patients were assessed in MHCC’s drive thru clinic.
Representatives from the city, towns, hospital and county are working together to ensure the health and safety of our residents.
While both of these cases are not officially connected to Converse County, the Converse County Covid-19 Emergency Operations Center wants the public to understand that Covid-19 is in our community.
Our residents need to be prepared for the very real possibility of COVID-19 being here.
The Surgeon General’s warning at the start of the week was: "Everyone needs to act as if they have the virus right now. So, test or no test, we need you to understand you could be spreading it to someone else. Or you could be getting it from someone else. Stay at home [as much as possible]. ”We applaud these individuals for self isolating and using the drive through clinic. 032520
On Wednesday, March 25th, the Converse County Public Health Department and Memorial Hospital of Converse County received notification of 2 individuals that tested positive for COVID-19 at MHCC.
Both individuals live and work in NATRONA County. Both patients were assessed in MHCC’s drive thru clinic.
Representatives from the city, towns, hospital and county are working together to ensure the health and safety of our residents.
While both of these cases are not officially connected to Converse County, the Converse County Covid-19 Emergency Operations Center wants the public to understand that Covid-19 is in our community.
Our residents need to be prepared for the very real possibility of COVID-19 being here.
The Surgeon General’s warning at the start of the week was: "Everyone needs to act as if they have the virus right now. So, test or no test, we need you to understand you could be spreading it to someone else. Or you could be getting it from someone else. Stay at home [as much as possible]. ”We applaud these individuals for self isolating and using the drive through clinic. 032520
Restaurants across Wyoming will go to curbside and delivery service only for the next couple of weeks.
Governor Mark Gordon signed a closure order Thursday afternoon that extends through April 3 and includes schools, theaters, bars, nightclubs, coffee shops, employee cafeterias, self-serve buffets, salad bars, unpackaged self-serve food services, gyms, conference rooms and museums.
Governor Gordon said it was a difficult decision...
Governor Mark Gordon signed a closure order Thursday afternoon that extends through April 3 and includes schools, theaters, bars, nightclubs, coffee shops, employee cafeterias, self-serve buffets, salad bars, unpackaged self-serve food services, gyms, conference rooms and museums.
Governor Gordon said it was a difficult decision...
Restaurants will be closed to dine-in food service, but may remain open for curbside take-out or drive-through food service.
Under the order, childcare centers will be closed except for those serving essential personnel.
A complete copy of the Governor's order is posted here on the front page at kktyonline.com. 032020
Under the order, childcare centers will be closed except for those serving essential personnel.
A complete copy of the Governor's order is posted here on the front page at kktyonline.com. 032020
Douglas City Hall is now closed.
To limit the spread of COVID-19, City of Douglas facilities will be operating under new restrictions.
The City will continue to conduct business, but facilities will be CLOSED to the public starting Friday, March 20, 2020.
Please call the main City line at (307) 358-3462 for general questions, or, if you know what department you would like to speak to, call direct. 032020
To limit the spread of COVID-19, City of Douglas facilities will be operating under new restrictions.
The City will continue to conduct business, but facilities will be CLOSED to the public starting Friday, March 20, 2020.
Please call the main City line at (307) 358-3462 for general questions, or, if you know what department you would like to speak to, call direct. 032020
Memorial Hospital of Converse County received the test results Monday evening March 16th for the patient admitted this past weekend to their isolation room for observation and care.
The results of the COVID-19 test are negative. No further patients have presented with symptoms which have met the criteria for COVID-19 testing at this time.
• MHCC has restricted access to all visitors and guests.
• Patients with respiratory symptoms will be evaluated at their car prior to seeing a provider.
• MHCC Primary Care Clinics remain open. Every patient will be asked the screening questions prior to entry into any building.
• Outlying Specialty Clinics are Closed and patients are being contacted via phone.
• Elective surgeries beginning 3/23 are cancelled and will be rescheduled following this time of National Emergency.
• Emergent and urgent surgeries and procedures will continue as needed.
• Primary Care Providers will be cancelling or rescheduling non-urgent appointments. 031720
The results of the COVID-19 test are negative. No further patients have presented with symptoms which have met the criteria for COVID-19 testing at this time.
• MHCC has restricted access to all visitors and guests.
• Patients with respiratory symptoms will be evaluated at their car prior to seeing a provider.
• MHCC Primary Care Clinics remain open. Every patient will be asked the screening questions prior to entry into any building.
• Outlying Specialty Clinics are Closed and patients are being contacted via phone.
• Elective surgeries beginning 3/23 are cancelled and will be rescheduled following this time of National Emergency.
• Emergent and urgent surgeries and procedures will continue as needed.
• Primary Care Providers will be cancelling or rescheduling non-urgent appointments. 031720
Converse County School District #1 in Douglas has announced the schools here will be closed through Friday, April 3.
Per WHSAA directive, all activities and events including practices have been cancelled through April 6. As the rec center is a school building, it will be closed during this time as well.
Administrators will meet this Monday, March 23rd using virtual means and practicing social distancing to determine specifics about the following two weeks.
Additional information for families will be sent out as soon as it is available after this Monday.
The district will be providing some meals for students through their nutrition services department. More detailed information about how this will be handled will be provided near the end of this week. 031720
Per WHSAA directive, all activities and events including practices have been cancelled through April 6. As the rec center is a school building, it will be closed during this time as well.
Administrators will meet this Monday, March 23rd using virtual means and practicing social distancing to determine specifics about the following two weeks.
Additional information for families will be sent out as soon as it is available after this Monday.
The district will be providing some meals for students through their nutrition services department. More detailed information about how this will be handled will be provided near the end of this week. 031720
EWC students will go back to class, but they won't go back to school.
Eastern Wyoming College says classes will resume on Monday, March 23rd for Torrington and Douglas students, but those classes will be held in online or otherwise modified formats.
Students will hear from instructors by this Friday morning, March 20th, about the status of classes. Instructors will contact students through Canvas or at the student’s EWC email account. 031720
Eastern Wyoming College says classes will resume on Monday, March 23rd for Torrington and Douglas students, but those classes will be held in online or otherwise modified formats.
Students will hear from instructors by this Friday morning, March 20th, about the status of classes. Instructors will contact students through Canvas or at the student’s EWC email account. 031720
Lab testing at the Wyoming Public Health Laboratory has identified the second known case of COVID-19 Coronavirus in the state.
The Wyoming Department of Health says the patient is a hospitalized older adult male Fremont County resident with currently unknown exposure risk.
WDH is following up to learn more about the person’s exposure risk and to identify and communicate with anyone who may have been in close contact with the patient.
Known contacts will be monitored for symptoms and tested if needed. As is currently standard, the test result is considered to be a “presumptive positive” and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will conduct further testing for confirmation. 031320
The Wyoming Department of Health says the patient is a hospitalized older adult male Fremont County resident with currently unknown exposure risk.
WDH is following up to learn more about the person’s exposure risk and to identify and communicate with anyone who may have been in close contact with the patient.
Known contacts will be monitored for symptoms and tested if needed. As is currently standard, the test result is considered to be a “presumptive positive” and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will conduct further testing for confirmation. 031320
Water prospects out of the North Platte River system look good for this summer.
The Wyoming Area Office of the Bureau of Reclamation March snowmelt runoff forecasts for the North Platte River Basin indicate the spring snowmelt runoff will be above average.
The Bureau of Rec says that the total April through July runoff in the North Platte River Basin, above Glendo Dam, is expected to be 1,117,000 acre-feet, which is 124% of the 30-year average.
The total conservation storage capacity of the North Platte Reservoir System is approximately 2.8 million acre/feet.
As of February 29th, the combined storage content in the North Platte Reservoirs was a little over 2.2 million a/f, which is 139% of the 30-year average. 030920
The Wyoming Area Office of the Bureau of Reclamation March snowmelt runoff forecasts for the North Platte River Basin indicate the spring snowmelt runoff will be above average.
The Bureau of Rec says that the total April through July runoff in the North Platte River Basin, above Glendo Dam, is expected to be 1,117,000 acre-feet, which is 124% of the 30-year average.
The total conservation storage capacity of the North Platte Reservoir System is approximately 2.8 million acre/feet.
As of February 29th, the combined storage content in the North Platte Reservoirs was a little over 2.2 million a/f, which is 139% of the 30-year average. 030920
The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality will hold an AML presentation and town hall meeting in Glenrock tonight.
The DEQ will begin filling in old, abandoned coal mines under the town of Glenrock this summer, and tonight's meeting will give residents a chance to hear about the process and get their questions answered.
Tonight's meeting begins at 7pm at the Glenrock Town Hall. The presentation is open to the public. 030920
The DEQ will begin filling in old, abandoned coal mines under the town of Glenrock this summer, and tonight's meeting will give residents a chance to hear about the process and get their questions answered.
Tonight's meeting begins at 7pm at the Glenrock Town Hall. The presentation is open to the public. 030920
The City of Douglas is making investments to improve a mid-town park.
At their meeting Monday night, the Douglas City Council awarded a contract for just under $88 thousand dollars to TDS Construction to build a new picnic shelter at Bartling Park.
The 30' by 40' foot shelter will be the largest in the Douglas parks system, double the size of any other, and will accommodate about 120 people.
The new Bartling Park shelter will be near the skate park, and near new restrooms that are also now under construction. 022620
At their meeting Monday night, the Douglas City Council awarded a contract for just under $88 thousand dollars to TDS Construction to build a new picnic shelter at Bartling Park.
The 30' by 40' foot shelter will be the largest in the Douglas parks system, double the size of any other, and will accommodate about 120 people.
The new Bartling Park shelter will be near the skate park, and near new restrooms that are also now under construction. 022620
This week is National FFA Week, and the Douglas Chapter of the FFA got a visit from a national officer.
National FFA Western Region Vice President Lyle Logemann came to Douglas and Wheatland High Schools on Tuesday for workshops and a keynote address with both chapters.
It's a busy week for Wyoming FFA. The state Agriscience Fair competition was held on Monday in Laramie.
Douglas FFA held its Mr FFA competition Monday night. Our 2020 Mr. FFA is Cash Lovitt, with Caden Mitchell in 2nd and Mason Miller in 3rd... Braeden Ullery as Honorable Mention. 022620
National FFA Western Region Vice President Lyle Logemann came to Douglas and Wheatland High Schools on Tuesday for workshops and a keynote address with both chapters.
It's a busy week for Wyoming FFA. The state Agriscience Fair competition was held on Monday in Laramie.
Douglas FFA held its Mr FFA competition Monday night. Our 2020 Mr. FFA is Cash Lovitt, with Caden Mitchell in 2nd and Mason Miller in 3rd... Braeden Ullery as Honorable Mention. 022620
The Douglas City Council is making a zoning change in one of Douglas's oldest residential neighborhoods.
Twin Buttes Ministry of Greeley, Colorado, requested the change from R-1 neighborhood residential to R-3 limited mixed residential for the old North Grade School at 6th & Walnut. Property owner Brett Reese has proposed developing apartments in the classrooms of the old school building, and needed the less-limited R-3 zoning to proceed.
Council passed and approved the change 5-0 Monday night on the first of three readings. 022420
Twin Buttes Ministry of Greeley, Colorado, requested the change from R-1 neighborhood residential to R-3 limited mixed residential for the old North Grade School at 6th & Walnut. Property owner Brett Reese has proposed developing apartments in the classrooms of the old school building, and needed the less-limited R-3 zoning to proceed.
Council passed and approved the change 5-0 Monday night on the first of three readings. 022420
State and local officials are working to revive Wyoming's uranium industry.
In last year’s third quarter, uranium concentrate production at four mines in Wyoming was down 94 percent since the same quarter in 2016.
Wyoming officials and energy groups have long pressed President Donald Trump to institute new trade policies, like quotas, to intensify domestic demand of uranium. Right now, most utility companies import cheaper uranium from other countries, like Kazakhstan or China.
In a budget request, the U.S. Department of Energy asked for $150 million to build a uranium reserve fund and boost domestic demand for the mineral.
And here in Wyoming, Sen. Brian Boner of Douglas, drafted a bill to provide tax relief for the state’s uranium producers in Wyoming. Senate File 85 would introduce a sliding scale on the state’s mineral severance tax for uranium producers. 021320
In last year’s third quarter, uranium concentrate production at four mines in Wyoming was down 94 percent since the same quarter in 2016.
Wyoming officials and energy groups have long pressed President Donald Trump to institute new trade policies, like quotas, to intensify domestic demand of uranium. Right now, most utility companies import cheaper uranium from other countries, like Kazakhstan or China.
In a budget request, the U.S. Department of Energy asked for $150 million to build a uranium reserve fund and boost domestic demand for the mineral.
And here in Wyoming, Sen. Brian Boner of Douglas, drafted a bill to provide tax relief for the state’s uranium producers in Wyoming. Senate File 85 would introduce a sliding scale on the state’s mineral severance tax for uranium producers. 021320
The February forecasts indicate the spring snowmelt runoff will be above average.
Total April through July runoff in the North Platte River Basin above Glendo Dam is expected to be 1,020,000 acre-feet (af), which is 113% of the 30-year average.
The total conservation storage capacity of the North Platte Reservoir System is approximately 2.8 million af.
As of January 31st, the combined storage content in the North Platte Reservoirs was almost 2.2 million af. That's 140% of the 30-year average. 021320
Total April through July runoff in the North Platte River Basin above Glendo Dam is expected to be 1,020,000 acre-feet (af), which is 113% of the 30-year average.
The total conservation storage capacity of the North Platte Reservoir System is approximately 2.8 million af.
As of January 31st, the combined storage content in the North Platte Reservoirs was almost 2.2 million af. That's 140% of the 30-year average. 021320
|
The 11th Annual Platte River Photography Show opens tonight in Douglas, and Enterprise Executive Director Cindy Porter says this year's show has grown into a new home...
This year's photo show will also feature a learning experience for photographers...
|
There's also a $1 thousand dollar scholarship for a high school senior.
This years show will also put the spotlight on a photogenic feature of Converse County...
This years show will also put the spotlight on a photogenic feature of Converse County...
The 11th Annual Platte River Photography Show opens tonight and runs through next Friday, February 14th.
There's an opening reception tonight from 6pm til 8pm at the Eastern Wyoming College - Douglas Campus, 800 South Wind River Drive. Refreshments from the Arbor Cafe at Memorial Hospital of Converse County will be served. Admission is free to the public. 020720
There's an opening reception tonight from 6pm til 8pm at the Eastern Wyoming College - Douglas Campus, 800 South Wind River Drive. Refreshments from the Arbor Cafe at Memorial Hospital of Converse County will be served. Admission is free to the public. 020720
A new report from the state of Wyoming says the outlook is good for the region's oil & gas business.
The Wyoming State Geological Survey's Oil and Natural Gas Resources in Wyoming January 2020 Summary Report says Wyoming oil production is forecast to reach levels not seen since 1993 for the second consecutive year.
The report says that with substantial reserves of oil and natural gas, a favorable regulatory environment, and operators’ increased ability to lower production costs in unconventional reservoir development, Wyoming will remain a significant contributor to the national energy portfolio.
It also said the Powder River Basin continues to be Wyoming’s top oil-producing basin, consistently accounting for at least one-third—and since 2014, more than half—of the state’s oil annually.
The future of Powder River Basin oil production in general will be largely dependent on market conditions and will be “susceptible to crude oil prices, surpluses, and the international market.” 013020
The Wyoming State Geological Survey's Oil and Natural Gas Resources in Wyoming January 2020 Summary Report says Wyoming oil production is forecast to reach levels not seen since 1993 for the second consecutive year.
The report says that with substantial reserves of oil and natural gas, a favorable regulatory environment, and operators’ increased ability to lower production costs in unconventional reservoir development, Wyoming will remain a significant contributor to the national energy portfolio.
It also said the Powder River Basin continues to be Wyoming’s top oil-producing basin, consistently accounting for at least one-third—and since 2014, more than half—of the state’s oil annually.
The future of Powder River Basin oil production in general will be largely dependent on market conditions and will be “susceptible to crude oil prices, surpluses, and the international market.” 013020
2019 graduation rates were down just a bit at Douglas High School last year.
New reports from the Wyoming Department of Education show Converse County School District 1 graduated 107 students in the spring of 2019... that's an 84.3 percent graduation rate. In 2018, the district graduated 115, an 85.2 percent graduation rate.
CCSD1 is still ahead of the statewide averages. High school graduation rates across Wyoming increased for the sixth consecutive year during the 2018-19 school year. Students achieved an “on-time” graduation rate of 82.1 percent, an increase of .5% over the previous year. 012220
New reports from the Wyoming Department of Education show Converse County School District 1 graduated 107 students in the spring of 2019... that's an 84.3 percent graduation rate. In 2018, the district graduated 115, an 85.2 percent graduation rate.
CCSD1 is still ahead of the statewide averages. High school graduation rates across Wyoming increased for the sixth consecutive year during the 2018-19 school year. Students achieved an “on-time” graduation rate of 82.1 percent, an increase of .5% over the previous year. 012220
A familiar face from City Hall is moving to the County Courthouse.
Following a special session Tuesday morning, the Converse County Commissioners moved to appoint Karen Rimmer as Converse County Clerk to a term ending the first Monday in January 2021.
Rimmer is currently City Clerk for the City of Douglas. She'll move into the position vacated when former Converse County Clerk Lucile Taylor retired mid-term on January 2nd.
Per Wyoming statute, the County Commission appoints someone to fill the unexpired term until the next election.
Rimmer will then go on the ballot with any other candidates in November 2020. 011420
Following a special session Tuesday morning, the Converse County Commissioners moved to appoint Karen Rimmer as Converse County Clerk to a term ending the first Monday in January 2021.
Rimmer is currently City Clerk for the City of Douglas. She'll move into the position vacated when former Converse County Clerk Lucile Taylor retired mid-term on January 2nd.
Per Wyoming statute, the County Commission appoints someone to fill the unexpired term until the next election.
Rimmer will then go on the ballot with any other candidates in November 2020. 011420
What happened to the recycling program in the City of Douglas?
Members of the Douglas Cub Scout Pack 1026 asked that question at Monday night's Douglas City Council meeting.
Members of the Douglas Cub Scout Pack 1026 asked that question at Monday night's Douglas City Council meeting.
City Administrator Jonathan Teichert said the company that bought from the city went out of business.
Teichert said the city is still accepting aluminum and other metals at the City landfill. He also said the city is watching and waiting to see what the City of Casper is going to do...
Public Works director John Harbarger said that the biggest problem associated with recycling is the cost, and he said that markets are drying up. He said the the biggest buyer of cardboard from the United States was China, and they quit taking it.
Harbarger also said that hopefully by April, the city will have an answer from Casper, and the City of Douglas can perhaps get some of their recycling programs moving again. 011320
Harbarger also said that hopefully by April, the city will have an answer from Casper, and the City of Douglas can perhaps get some of their recycling programs moving again. 011320
A Colorado resident is in custody following a pursuit that took place Sunday, January 12th, on I-25 north of Wheatland.
47-year-old Ian J. Hadaway of Boulder, Colorado, was arrested after fleeing a traffic stop on Interstate 25. A Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper stopped a 1998 Dodge Ram pickup truck around milepost 82 for a speeding violation. During the stop, the driver drove off. The trooper pursued the Dodge north on Interstate 25 with speeds reaching 100 mph. Hadaway turned off at the Fish Creek Road exit, drove out into a field, where Platte County Deputies found him stuck in a muddy creek bed a short time later.
Hadaway's been booked into the Platte County Detention Center and charged with reckless driving, fleeing to elude, and other traffic-related offenses. 011420
47-year-old Ian J. Hadaway of Boulder, Colorado, was arrested after fleeing a traffic stop on Interstate 25. A Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper stopped a 1998 Dodge Ram pickup truck around milepost 82 for a speeding violation. During the stop, the driver drove off. The trooper pursued the Dodge north on Interstate 25 with speeds reaching 100 mph. Hadaway turned off at the Fish Creek Road exit, drove out into a field, where Platte County Deputies found him stuck in a muddy creek bed a short time later.
Hadaway's been booked into the Platte County Detention Center and charged with reckless driving, fleeing to elude, and other traffic-related offenses. 011420
If you've ever stepped on one of those little plastic Lego blocks in your bare feet, you may not appreciate this story. But Legos and grade school kids are made for each other.
Teams of fourth through eighth graders from across the state participated in the 2019 “FIRST LEGO League Wyoming State Championship” on Dec. 7 at the Casper Events Center. KKTY's Liz Ostrander has more...
Teams of fourth through eighth graders from across the state participated in the 2019 “FIRST LEGO League Wyoming State Championship” on Dec. 7 at the Casper Events Center. KKTY's Liz Ostrander has more...
A Powell Middle School team took home “The Champion’s Award” which earns them an invitation to a “FIRST LEGO League World Festival” to be held April 15-18 in Houston. 121719
Eastern Wyoming College will partner with several other Wyoming community colleges to develop a couple of new programs.
The state Legislature launched a new program called Wyoming Works last year, to provide programs and resources for adult students to learn a skill that leads to secure employment.
The Wyoming Community College Commission has vetted and approved the first four funding awards.
The Meat Processing program will be developed by EWC, with campuses at Torrington and Douglas, Central Wyoming College at Riverton, and Northern Wyoming Community College at Sheridan and Gillette.
The CDL Training program will be developed by EWC, Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne and Laramie, and Northwest College at Powell.
Wyoming Community College Commission Executive Director Dr. Sandy Caldwell says the cooperative efforts among multiple community colleges are a first for the state. 121119
The state Legislature launched a new program called Wyoming Works last year, to provide programs and resources for adult students to learn a skill that leads to secure employment.
The Wyoming Community College Commission has vetted and approved the first four funding awards.
The Meat Processing program will be developed by EWC, with campuses at Torrington and Douglas, Central Wyoming College at Riverton, and Northern Wyoming Community College at Sheridan and Gillette.
The CDL Training program will be developed by EWC, Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne and Laramie, and Northwest College at Powell.
Wyoming Community College Commission Executive Director Dr. Sandy Caldwell says the cooperative efforts among multiple community colleges are a first for the state. 121119
Converse County continues to be the hot spot in the state for job growth.
The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services has released a report comparing the state's employment and wage growth from the first quarter of 2018 to the first quarter of 2019.
In that period, Converse County added 1209 jobs... that's a 21.7% jump, and our total payroll rose by $20.4 million dollars... that's a 28.7 percent jump.
Construction employment in the county increased by nearly 700 jobs, and mining employment, including oil and gas, was up more than 200 jobs.
Growth in Converse County was also seen in administrative and waste services, accommodation and food services, transportation and warehousing, and professional & technical services. 112219
The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services has released a report comparing the state's employment and wage growth from the first quarter of 2018 to the first quarter of 2019.
In that period, Converse County added 1209 jobs... that's a 21.7% jump, and our total payroll rose by $20.4 million dollars... that's a 28.7 percent jump.
Construction employment in the county increased by nearly 700 jobs, and mining employment, including oil and gas, was up more than 200 jobs.
Growth in Converse County was also seen in administrative and waste services, accommodation and food services, transportation and warehousing, and professional & technical services. 112219
Construction has finished, the books are back in their places, and the Glenrock branch of the Converse County Library invites you to come in and see their new look.
The main floor of the Glenrock Library has been redesigned with a Maker Space for crafting, workshops and classes, and a quiet reading room. The basement of the building has been completely finished to house the new teen area.
The Glenrock Library will hold a Grand Re-Opening Celebration on Thursday, November 21st, from 4-7 pm, and the public is invited in for tours and refreshments. 112019
The main floor of the Glenrock Library has been redesigned with a Maker Space for crafting, workshops and classes, and a quiet reading room. The basement of the building has been completely finished to house the new teen area.
The Glenrock Library will hold a Grand Re-Opening Celebration on Thursday, November 21st, from 4-7 pm, and the public is invited in for tours and refreshments. 112019
Christmas is a little over a month away, and permits to cut Christmas trees on the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests are now available at multiple locations in Colorado and Wyoming.
Each permit costs $10 and allows for the cutting of one tree on National Forest System Lands. There is a limit of five permits per household. Trees must be for personal use, not for resale. The permit must be clearly displayed around the stem of the tree before leaving the cutting area.
Trees may not be cut within 100 feet of roads or within 200 feet of campgrounds or picnic areas. Maximum tree height is 20 feet... maximum tree diameter is six inches at the stump.
Permits are available now at the Douglas Ranger District office at 2250 East Richards Street in Douglas. They'll also be available at Douglas’ Cowboy Christmas on Nov. 23. 111419
Each permit costs $10 and allows for the cutting of one tree on National Forest System Lands. There is a limit of five permits per household. Trees must be for personal use, not for resale. The permit must be clearly displayed around the stem of the tree before leaving the cutting area.
Trees may not be cut within 100 feet of roads or within 200 feet of campgrounds or picnic areas. Maximum tree height is 20 feet... maximum tree diameter is six inches at the stump.
Permits are available now at the Douglas Ranger District office at 2250 East Richards Street in Douglas. They'll also be available at Douglas’ Cowboy Christmas on Nov. 23. 111419
By a 250-vote margin, Converse County voters said no on Tuesday to a new Rec Center.
Converse County voters went to the polls today to say yea or nay to funding for a new Rec Center at Douglas and improvements to the current Rec Center at Glenrock.
Voters cast 1711 votes for the ballot issue, and 1961 votes against.
If passed, the ballot issue would have placed a sixth-cent sales tax in Converse County that would raise $87.5 million dollars.
A little over $37 million would be used for a new recreation center to be built east of Bartling Park in Douglas.
$24 million would build new facilities at the Glenrock Rec and South Rec Centers.
Again, Glenrock, Rolling Hills and Boxelder voters approved the idea, voting 632 in favor, 277 against. Douglas and the rest of the County tallied 1079 for, and 1684 against.
Voter turnout was strong, with almost 66 percent of the registered voters in the county casting a ballot. 110519
Converse County voters went to the polls today to say yea or nay to funding for a new Rec Center at Douglas and improvements to the current Rec Center at Glenrock.
Voters cast 1711 votes for the ballot issue, and 1961 votes against.
If passed, the ballot issue would have placed a sixth-cent sales tax in Converse County that would raise $87.5 million dollars.
A little over $37 million would be used for a new recreation center to be built east of Bartling Park in Douglas.
$24 million would build new facilities at the Glenrock Rec and South Rec Centers.
Again, Glenrock, Rolling Hills and Boxelder voters approved the idea, voting 632 in favor, 277 against. Douglas and the rest of the County tallied 1079 for, and 1684 against.
Voter turnout was strong, with almost 66 percent of the registered voters in the county casting a ballot. 110519
Converse County voters will go to the polls on Tuesday to say yea or nay to funding for a new Rec Center at Douglas and improvements to the current Rec Center at Glenrock.
If passed, the ballot issue would place a sixth-cent sales tax in Converse County that would raise $87.5 million dollars.
A little over $37 million would be used for a new recreation center to be built east of Bartling Park in Douglas, which will include gymnasiums, an indoor walking track, indoor and outdoor playground areas, an aquatic center, meeting and birthday party rooms, sport simulator, bouldering wall, locker rooms, racquetball courts, weight room area, group exercise room, mechanical and storage rooms, staff offices and a parking lot.
$24 million would build new facilities at the Glenrock Rec, including a second gym, outdoor water park, locker rooms with saunas, wrestling locker rooms, indoor walking track, "tot room" with outdoor play area and off-street parking; Remodeling at GRC and SRC - update fire system, renovate inside of GRC, including HVAC and ADA compliance measures, upgrade GRC grounds with the addition of recreation areas (including picnic tables, horseshoe pits and basketball courts with lights), and upgrade SRC baseball fields.
The special use tax is just like the tax used to build the new libraries at Douglas and Glenrock, and the EWC Campus at Douglas. As soon as the designated monies are raised, the tax goes away.
Converse County Clerk Lucile Taylor remids voters that this is a countywide election, and all eligible voters can vote... not just those who live in Douglas or Glenrock.
Polls will be open on Tuesday from 7am to 7pm. We'll broadcast the election results as soon at the votes are counted on KKTY and KKTS Radio. 110419
If passed, the ballot issue would place a sixth-cent sales tax in Converse County that would raise $87.5 million dollars.
A little over $37 million would be used for a new recreation center to be built east of Bartling Park in Douglas, which will include gymnasiums, an indoor walking track, indoor and outdoor playground areas, an aquatic center, meeting and birthday party rooms, sport simulator, bouldering wall, locker rooms, racquetball courts, weight room area, group exercise room, mechanical and storage rooms, staff offices and a parking lot.
$24 million would build new facilities at the Glenrock Rec, including a second gym, outdoor water park, locker rooms with saunas, wrestling locker rooms, indoor walking track, "tot room" with outdoor play area and off-street parking; Remodeling at GRC and SRC - update fire system, renovate inside of GRC, including HVAC and ADA compliance measures, upgrade GRC grounds with the addition of recreation areas (including picnic tables, horseshoe pits and basketball courts with lights), and upgrade SRC baseball fields.
The special use tax is just like the tax used to build the new libraries at Douglas and Glenrock, and the EWC Campus at Douglas. As soon as the designated monies are raised, the tax goes away.
Converse County Clerk Lucile Taylor remids voters that this is a countywide election, and all eligible voters can vote... not just those who live in Douglas or Glenrock.
Polls will be open on Tuesday from 7am to 7pm. We'll broadcast the election results as soon at the votes are counted on KKTY and KKTS Radio. 110419
WyDOT has a couple of construction projects on the schedule for next year that will affect Douglas drivers.
The Brownfield Road and Robin Lane project will include new pavement, some curb and gutter and sidewalk, and drainage improvements on Brownfield south of Richards Street, and will also include new pavement on Robin Lane tying in to LaBonte Road. WyDOT says impacts to the public should be minimal, access to residences will be maintained and they'll be working closely with landowners in the area.
The WYO 59 project will resurface the Douglas bypass, from the intersection with Esterbrook Road north to about MP 8.75, about a mile south of Walker Road. Included in this project will be modifications to the Yellowstone Road intersection, and the addition of a center turn lane which will begin at the North side of the Railroad Bridge and run continuously to the Antelope Creek bridge at MP 6.25.
Combined, the two projects will see WyDOT invest about $13 million dollars in Douglas roads. The two projects should be completed by the end of 2020. 101619
The Brownfield Road and Robin Lane project will include new pavement, some curb and gutter and sidewalk, and drainage improvements on Brownfield south of Richards Street, and will also include new pavement on Robin Lane tying in to LaBonte Road. WyDOT says impacts to the public should be minimal, access to residences will be maintained and they'll be working closely with landowners in the area.
The WYO 59 project will resurface the Douglas bypass, from the intersection with Esterbrook Road north to about MP 8.75, about a mile south of Walker Road. Included in this project will be modifications to the Yellowstone Road intersection, and the addition of a center turn lane which will begin at the North side of the Railroad Bridge and run continuously to the Antelope Creek bridge at MP 6.25.
Combined, the two projects will see WyDOT invest about $13 million dollars in Douglas roads. The two projects should be completed by the end of 2020. 101619
The Gateway West transmission line project continues to stretch across southern Wyoming.
Construction crews pulled guide wires across Interstate 80 just east of the North Platte River at the Fort Steele exit this week.
The 190-mile section of high-voltage transmission line currently under construction will run from the Aeolus Substation near Medicine Bow to the Anticline Substation at Point of Rocks, where it will be tied in with already existing power lines.
The entire, 1 thousand mile project will begin near Glenrock and end southwest of Boise, Idaho.
Rocky Mountain Power and Idaho Power are building the 230 and 500 kV lines to provide Wyoming-generated electricity to meet increasing customer needs.
The project should be completed by October of 2020. 101619
Construction crews pulled guide wires across Interstate 80 just east of the North Platte River at the Fort Steele exit this week.
The 190-mile section of high-voltage transmission line currently under construction will run from the Aeolus Substation near Medicine Bow to the Anticline Substation at Point of Rocks, where it will be tied in with already existing power lines.
The entire, 1 thousand mile project will begin near Glenrock and end southwest of Boise, Idaho.
Rocky Mountain Power and Idaho Power are building the 230 and 500 kV lines to provide Wyoming-generated electricity to meet increasing customer needs.
The project should be completed by October of 2020. 101619
Where does the future lie for Douglas City Hall?
That's a real subject for discussion and consideration for the Douglas City Council.
The building at 4th and Center was originally built in 1977 as a bank. It became the Douglas City Hall in 1989, housing municipal offices and the Douglas Police Department.
After the Police Department moved out to the Joint Justice Center, the city was left with a large amount of space in need of remodeling for appropriate use, as well as maintenance on a 42 year old building.
The Council has several options to consider... remodel the current building... tear it down and build new on the same location... move to a different building in a different location... or build a new building in a different location.
At Monday night's Council meeting, Councilman John Bartling said there were still too many unanswered questions...
That's a real subject for discussion and consideration for the Douglas City Council.
The building at 4th and Center was originally built in 1977 as a bank. It became the Douglas City Hall in 1989, housing municipal offices and the Douglas Police Department.
After the Police Department moved out to the Joint Justice Center, the city was left with a large amount of space in need of remodeling for appropriate use, as well as maintenance on a 42 year old building.
The Council has several options to consider... remodel the current building... tear it down and build new on the same location... move to a different building in a different location... or build a new building in a different location.
At Monday night's Council meeting, Councilman John Bartling said there were still too many unanswered questions...
The Council did vote unanimously against spending another $52 thousand dollars for rough architectural services to determine site use viability at the current 4th & Center location, and at the old City Hall location on South 3rd Street behind Jackalope Square.
Instead, the Council agreed to set a work session that would allow Council and City staff to further discuss in-depth the city's short and long-term needs and options. 101519
Instead, the Council agreed to set a work session that would allow Council and City staff to further discuss in-depth the city's short and long-term needs and options. 101519
Balancing prairie dogs, black-footed ferrets, livestock and other uses on the Thunder Basin National Grasslands north of Douglas are all under discussion.
The US Forest Service has released a draft environmental impact statement to amend the Resource Management Plan on the Grasslands. The proposed amendment will address management of black-tailed prairie dog colonies on National Forest System lands to balance colony conservation and control with other grassland uses.
A notice of availability for the draft environmental impact statement was published in the Federal Register on Friday. A public comment period is open through Thursday, January 9th.
The DEIS would establish prairie dog management zones along boundaries between National Forest System lands and private and state lands, allow the broader application of tools for colony conservation and control, decrease the acres of prairie dog colonies managed for conservation, and maintain management approaches to provide habitat for at-risk species.
A public meeting is scheduled on November 20, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Converse County Library in Douglas, Wyo. and a public webinar on the project is scheduled for November 21st at 11 a.m.
The amendment is expected to be finalized late next year. 101419
The US Forest Service has released a draft environmental impact statement to amend the Resource Management Plan on the Grasslands. The proposed amendment will address management of black-tailed prairie dog colonies on National Forest System lands to balance colony conservation and control with other grassland uses.
A notice of availability for the draft environmental impact statement was published in the Federal Register on Friday. A public comment period is open through Thursday, January 9th.
The DEIS would establish prairie dog management zones along boundaries between National Forest System lands and private and state lands, allow the broader application of tools for colony conservation and control, decrease the acres of prairie dog colonies managed for conservation, and maintain management approaches to provide habitat for at-risk species.
A public meeting is scheduled on November 20, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Converse County Library in Douglas, Wyo. and a public webinar on the project is scheduled for November 21st at 11 a.m.
The amendment is expected to be finalized late next year. 101419
This week is Homecoming Week at Douglas High School.
Wednesday is Wild West Wednesday, with Homecoming Dodgeball at 6:30 pm.
Thursday is Throwback Thursday, with classes dressing by decades... the Homecoming pep assembly is 4th hour at DHS, and the Bonfire is Thursday night at 7 in the student parking lot.
Friday is Bearcats Spirit Day... the Homecoming Parade is at 1:45, and Homecoming Football vs Torrington is at 7pm at Bearcat Stadium. 100219
Wednesday is Wild West Wednesday, with Homecoming Dodgeball at 6:30 pm.
Thursday is Throwback Thursday, with classes dressing by decades... the Homecoming pep assembly is 4th hour at DHS, and the Bonfire is Thursday night at 7 in the student parking lot.
Friday is Bearcats Spirit Day... the Homecoming Parade is at 1:45, and Homecoming Football vs Torrington is at 7pm at Bearcat Stadium. 100219
A Colorado Springs man died in a highway accident Saturday morning northwest of Douglas.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol says a 2014 Peterbilt driven by Hector L. Arriaga of Ft Morgan, Colorado, was traveling westbound on Wyoming 93, the Ft Fetterman Highway, around milepost 9 when the driver mistakenly thought a 2019 GMC Sierra was in his lane of travel. The GMC was parked in an adjacent parking area with his headlights on. The Peterbilt drove into the parking area and collided with the GMC and driver who was standing outside of the vehicle.
The driver of the GMC has been identified as 56-year-old Colorado Springs, Colorado resident Kirk H. Hannivig, who died at the scene of the crash.
Arriaga, the driver of the semi, was wearing his seatbelt and was not injured. 092419
The Wyoming Highway Patrol says a 2014 Peterbilt driven by Hector L. Arriaga of Ft Morgan, Colorado, was traveling westbound on Wyoming 93, the Ft Fetterman Highway, around milepost 9 when the driver mistakenly thought a 2019 GMC Sierra was in his lane of travel. The GMC was parked in an adjacent parking area with his headlights on. The Peterbilt drove into the parking area and collided with the GMC and driver who was standing outside of the vehicle.
The driver of the GMC has been identified as 56-year-old Colorado Springs, Colorado resident Kirk H. Hannivig, who died at the scene of the crash.
Arriaga, the driver of the semi, was wearing his seatbelt and was not injured. 092419
Firefighters are making headway on the the Brush Creek Fire 30 miles southwest of Douglas.
The blaze south of Brumley Mountain on the west side of Old Fetterman Road is reported at 330 acres this morning, and 45% contained. The acreage reduction is due to more accurate mapping. The fire is located in rough terrain with scattered timber, brush, and grass.
There are 105 personnel assigned to the Brush Creek Fire. 3 Fire Crews and 9 Engines are currently assigned to the fire fighting efforts. 091919
The blaze south of Brumley Mountain on the west side of Old Fetterman Road is reported at 330 acres this morning, and 45% contained. The acreage reduction is due to more accurate mapping. The fire is located in rough terrain with scattered timber, brush, and grass.
There are 105 personnel assigned to the Brush Creek Fire. 3 Fire Crews and 9 Engines are currently assigned to the fire fighting efforts. 091919
Jackalope Square will get a new owner tonight.
The city park at the corner of Third and Center isn't actually owned by the City of Douglas. Peyton Bolln Grocery could trace its roots back to Ft Fetterman. The grocery store was located in the Temple Block at Third and Center until the building was destroyed by fire in the late 1980's.
After the fire, the Bolln family leased the property to the city to develop Jackalope Square, with the familiar statue, picnic tables and public restrooms. The gazebo on the south side of the park was added in 2004.
At tonight's city council meeting, Bolln's Incorporated will donate the land as a gift to the City of Douglas, for the continued use as a park and downtown off-street parking.
Douglas City Council meets tonight at 5:30 in chambers at City Hall. Council meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live in Douglas on Vyve Cable channel 61. 090919
The city park at the corner of Third and Center isn't actually owned by the City of Douglas. Peyton Bolln Grocery could trace its roots back to Ft Fetterman. The grocery store was located in the Temple Block at Third and Center until the building was destroyed by fire in the late 1980's.
After the fire, the Bolln family leased the property to the city to develop Jackalope Square, with the familiar statue, picnic tables and public restrooms. The gazebo on the south side of the park was added in 2004.
At tonight's city council meeting, Bolln's Incorporated will donate the land as a gift to the City of Douglas, for the continued use as a park and downtown off-street parking.
Douglas City Council meets tonight at 5:30 in chambers at City Hall. Council meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live in Douglas on Vyve Cable channel 61. 090919
Black Hills Energy is improving natural gas service south of Douglas.
Construction begins today on a 13.5 mile, 6-inch natural gas service that will replace an aging line south of town. The new pipeline will begin at the intersection of Irvine Road and Robin Lane, and will follow Irvine Road out to Orin Junction.
Black Hills Energy officials say the new pipeline will improve service to current customers, and will allow new natural gas service to some customers along the route in the Orin Junction area.
Construction is projected to take about two months. 090919
Construction begins today on a 13.5 mile, 6-inch natural gas service that will replace an aging line south of town. The new pipeline will begin at the intersection of Irvine Road and Robin Lane, and will follow Irvine Road out to Orin Junction.
Black Hills Energy officials say the new pipeline will improve service to current customers, and will allow new natural gas service to some customers along the route in the Orin Junction area.
Construction is projected to take about two months. 090919
Firefighters continued over the weekend to get a grip on the Ashenfelder Fire on the north flank of Laramie Peak.
Crews made good progress on the perimeter of the 67 acre fire, bringing containment to 80 percent.
The fire was caused by lightning between Esterbrook and the Peak, and was first reported by Black Mountain Fire Lookout on Wednesday, September 4th.
121 firefighters are currently assigned to the fire. 090919
Crews made good progress on the perimeter of the 67 acre fire, bringing containment to 80 percent.
The fire was caused by lightning between Esterbrook and the Peak, and was first reported by Black Mountain Fire Lookout on Wednesday, September 4th.
121 firefighters are currently assigned to the fire. 090919
Water levels at Glendo and Guernsey Reservoirs will be lowered as the irrigation season winds down.
The Bureau of Reclamation will begin their draw down at Guernsey Reservoir on Monday, Sept. 9.
The reservoir will drop 12 feet to reach 4,400 feet elevation by September 17th.
Glendo’s water levels will gradually decline to a water surface elevation of about 4,597 feet by Sept. 30.
The Bureau of Reclamation says boaters, recreationists, and irrigators should take proper precautions regarding changing river flows on and between Glendo and Guernsey Reservoirs. 090419
The Bureau of Reclamation will begin their draw down at Guernsey Reservoir on Monday, Sept. 9.
The reservoir will drop 12 feet to reach 4,400 feet elevation by September 17th.
Glendo’s water levels will gradually decline to a water surface elevation of about 4,597 feet by Sept. 30.
The Bureau of Reclamation says boaters, recreationists, and irrigators should take proper precautions regarding changing river flows on and between Glendo and Guernsey Reservoirs. 090419
A U.S. bankruptcy court has ruled that a coal company may sell two large Wyoming mines separately from one in West Virginia.
Bristol, Tennessee-based Contura Energy originally sought to buy all three mines from Milton, West Virginia-based Blackjewel in a deal held up while U.S. officials seek payment of federal royalties.
Contura would have paid $9.7 million for the Belle Ayr and Eagle Butte mines in Wyoming and Pax Surface Mine in West Virginia.
The court in West Virginia on Wednesday approved a deal in which Contura would pay $1.1 million to finalize sale of the West Virginia mine.
The Wyoming mines have been shut down since Blackjewel declared bankruptcy July 1. Federal records show no production at the West Virginia mine since 2006. 082919
Bristol, Tennessee-based Contura Energy originally sought to buy all three mines from Milton, West Virginia-based Blackjewel in a deal held up while U.S. officials seek payment of federal royalties.
Contura would have paid $9.7 million for the Belle Ayr and Eagle Butte mines in Wyoming and Pax Surface Mine in West Virginia.
The court in West Virginia on Wednesday approved a deal in which Contura would pay $1.1 million to finalize sale of the West Virginia mine.
The Wyoming mines have been shut down since Blackjewel declared bankruptcy July 1. Federal records show no production at the West Virginia mine since 2006. 082919
A wildfire burning near Pathfinder Reservoir in central Wyoming has grown to more than 12 thousnad acres since it began last weekend from lightning.
The Pedro Mountain fire is located about 40 miles north of Rawlins and is burning a rural area of timber, brush and grass.
Total personnel fighting the fire to over 320. They are being aided by several helicopters.
Containment of the fire continues to stand at about 10 percent. 082919
The Pedro Mountain fire is located about 40 miles north of Rawlins and is burning a rural area of timber, brush and grass.
Total personnel fighting the fire to over 320. They are being aided by several helicopters.
Containment of the fire continues to stand at about 10 percent. 082919
Casper Fire-EMS responded to a call Thursday morning at the FireRock Steakhouse on East Second Street.
The call came in around 10:46 a.m. for a report of a structure fire with flames and smoke visible from the roof of the building.
Firefighters found a fire located “in and around kitchen ventilation equipment.” Employees were evacuated and the fire was extinguished.
Cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The restaurant said they were planning on reopening for Friday the 30th of August at 4pm, but have had to push it back to later in the weekend. 082919
The call came in around 10:46 a.m. for a report of a structure fire with flames and smoke visible from the roof of the building.
Firefighters found a fire located “in and around kitchen ventilation equipment.” Employees were evacuated and the fire was extinguished.
Cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The restaurant said they were planning on reopening for Friday the 30th of August at 4pm, but have had to push it back to later in the weekend. 082919
Memorial Hospital of Converse County’s Board has announced the hiring of new Chief Executive Officer, Matt Dammeyer of Soldotna, Alaska.
Dammeyer was most recently the CEO of the Alaska Psychiatric Institute in Anchorage and owned a consulting firm focused on assisting clinical practices.
He also spent a large amount of his professional career at the Central Peninsula Hospital in Soldotna, Alaska, where he worked his way up to Chief Operating Officer, a position he held for seven years.
Dammeyer will begin work on September 30th and is already working with MHCC's senior management team to accomplish a smooth leadership transition.
Both he and his wife, Maria, are Ph.D. graduates in the field of Psychology from the University of Wyoming, where they met as students.
The Dammeyers and their six children will soon relocate to Douglas, where they look forward to making their home. 082619
Dammeyer was most recently the CEO of the Alaska Psychiatric Institute in Anchorage and owned a consulting firm focused on assisting clinical practices.
He also spent a large amount of his professional career at the Central Peninsula Hospital in Soldotna, Alaska, where he worked his way up to Chief Operating Officer, a position he held for seven years.
Dammeyer will begin work on September 30th and is already working with MHCC's senior management team to accomplish a smooth leadership transition.
Both he and his wife, Maria, are Ph.D. graduates in the field of Psychology from the University of Wyoming, where they met as students.
The Dammeyers and their six children will soon relocate to Douglas, where they look forward to making their home. 082619
|
|
Gov. Mark Gordon and other state officials unveiled the new Medal of Honor Highway sign this morning at the Orin Junction Rest Area south of Douglas.
The event officially designates US 20 as the Medal of Honor Highway. Gov. Gordon, the Wyoming Veterans Commission, members of the state Legislature, and state and local officials will attend the event. Gordon explained what the Medal Of Honor signifies... State Senator Stephen Pappas explained how Highway 20 became the Medal Of Honor Highway...
|
Pappas said there will be 14 Medal Of Honor Highway signs placed across Wyoming as it runs from the Nebraska border to Lusk, Douglas, Casper, Shoshoni, Thermopolis, Greybull, Cody and Yellowstone. 082019
Fair's over, and that means back-to-school is next on the agenda.
Monday, August 19th is the first day of school at Converse County District #2 at Glenrock, and for Platte County 2 schools at Guernsey. Classes also begin at Casper College on Monday.
Platte County District 1, Wheatland, Chugwater and Glendo start classes on Tuesday, August 20th.
Niobrara County schools at Lusk begin Wednesday the 21st.
Douglas students have one more week to sleep in... classes in Converse County District 1 begin on Monday, August 26th.
Natrona County school district schools are last in and last out.... Casper students won't crack a book until Tuesday, September 3rd. 081919
Monday, August 19th is the first day of school at Converse County District #2 at Glenrock, and for Platte County 2 schools at Guernsey. Classes also begin at Casper College on Monday.
Platte County District 1, Wheatland, Chugwater and Glendo start classes on Tuesday, August 20th.
Niobrara County schools at Lusk begin Wednesday the 21st.
Douglas students have one more week to sleep in... classes in Converse County District 1 begin on Monday, August 26th.
Natrona County school district schools are last in and last out.... Casper students won't crack a book until Tuesday, September 3rd. 081919
New owners for another bankrupt coal company.
Cloud Peak Energy has selected Navajo Transitional Energy Company as the successful bidder to assume ownership of its three coal mines in the Powder River Basin.
As the new owners and operators of the Antelope and Cordero Rojo mines in Wyoming and the Spring Creek Mine north of Sheridan at Decker, Montana, Navajo will make an immediate $15.7 million cash payment, a $40 million second lien promissory note and payment of royalties for coal produced over the next five years.
Navajo Transitional Energy will also assume responsibility for outstanding tax liabilities and royalties and reclamation obligations. The winning bidder also operates the Navajo mine on the Navajo Nation in New Mexico. 081919
Cloud Peak Energy has selected Navajo Transitional Energy Company as the successful bidder to assume ownership of its three coal mines in the Powder River Basin.
As the new owners and operators of the Antelope and Cordero Rojo mines in Wyoming and the Spring Creek Mine north of Sheridan at Decker, Montana, Navajo will make an immediate $15.7 million cash payment, a $40 million second lien promissory note and payment of royalties for coal produced over the next five years.
Navajo Transitional Energy will also assume responsibility for outstanding tax liabilities and royalties and reclamation obligations. The winning bidder also operates the Navajo mine on the Navajo Nation in New Mexico. 081919
A staffing shortage, combined with a full prison system, could cause safety problems for Wyoming's prisons.
Wyoming Department of Corrections Director Bob Lampert told lawmakers in Casper last week that low pay, a lack of affordable housing and the remote nature of their communities are driving away corrections officers from the Wyoming State Penitentiary in Rawlins and the Wyoming Women’s Center in Lusk.
Lampert said the two prisons are currently staffed at around 70%. He said the officers that remain are working increasingly long hours.
The WDOC has spent 500% of its overtime budget for the current two-year budget period after just one year. 081919
Wyoming Department of Corrections Director Bob Lampert told lawmakers in Casper last week that low pay, a lack of affordable housing and the remote nature of their communities are driving away corrections officers from the Wyoming State Penitentiary in Rawlins and the Wyoming Women’s Center in Lusk.
Lampert said the two prisons are currently staffed at around 70%. He said the officers that remain are working increasingly long hours.
The WDOC has spent 500% of its overtime budget for the current two-year budget period after just one year. 081919
Next week is Fair Week in Douglas... the Wyoming State Fair officially opens on Tuesday... but fair related activities begin tonight with the Ft Fetterman Remount Horse Sale... preview's at 2 this afternoon in the Silver Arena, and the sale is tonight at 6 in the Pepsi Equine Center.
Saturday morning at 10, there's the WDGA Dairy Goat Show, the Kidz & Karz Parade on the Fairgrounds, and the Stock Horse competition. The Sheep Wagon show judging is at 3pm, and the Ranch Rodeo and Mutton Bustin' is Saturday night at 7 in the Ford Grandstands Arena. 080919
Saturday morning at 10, there's the WDGA Dairy Goat Show, the Kidz & Karz Parade on the Fairgrounds, and the Stock Horse competition. The Sheep Wagon show judging is at 3pm, and the Ranch Rodeo and Mutton Bustin' is Saturday night at 7 in the Ford Grandstands Arena. 080919
While Converse County continues to be a hotbed for oil and gas development, current and future windfarms will also provide Wyoming energy for America's needs.
In a new report, the American Wind Energy Association says U.S. wind farm development activity rose to a new high point in the second quarter of 2019.
The report says over 200 wind projects are underway across 33 states, and 15 of those states have over 1,000 MW of wind capacity that will come online in the near term. Texas currently hosts the most activity, developing over 9,000 MW, followed by Wyoming, with more than 4,800 MW under development. New Mexico, Iowa and South Dakota are also cranking up new wind generators.
Construction is expected to begin this fall on the Cedar Springs Wind Project 10 miles north of Douglas.
The $490 million dollar project will build 160 wind turbines on over 70,000 acres of private and state land in Converse County. The turbines will produce up to 400 megawatts of electricity. 080919
In a new report, the American Wind Energy Association says U.S. wind farm development activity rose to a new high point in the second quarter of 2019.
The report says over 200 wind projects are underway across 33 states, and 15 of those states have over 1,000 MW of wind capacity that will come online in the near term. Texas currently hosts the most activity, developing over 9,000 MW, followed by Wyoming, with more than 4,800 MW under development. New Mexico, Iowa and South Dakota are also cranking up new wind generators.
Construction is expected to begin this fall on the Cedar Springs Wind Project 10 miles north of Douglas.
The $490 million dollar project will build 160 wind turbines on over 70,000 acres of private and state land in Converse County. The turbines will produce up to 400 megawatts of electricity. 080919
Farmers along the Fort Laramie-Gering Irrigation Canal in Wyoming and Nebraska may not get a check from their crop insurance providers.
According to University of Nebraska economist Cory Walters and extension educator Jessica Groskopf, “Crop Insurance provides protection against “unavoidable, naturally occurring events. Due to the complexity of the Gering-Fort Laramie situation, it is unknown if crop insurance will cover crop loss.
Crop insurance is a federal program operated by the United States Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency. Regardless of the crop insurance agent, the “unavoidable, naturally occurring events” clause is in every policy.
A tunnel in the irrigation canal collapsed in July, shutting down a system that provided water to more than 100 thousand acres of farmland around Torrington and Scottsbluff. 080819
According to University of Nebraska economist Cory Walters and extension educator Jessica Groskopf, “Crop Insurance provides protection against “unavoidable, naturally occurring events. Due to the complexity of the Gering-Fort Laramie situation, it is unknown if crop insurance will cover crop loss.
Crop insurance is a federal program operated by the United States Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency. Regardless of the crop insurance agent, the “unavoidable, naturally occurring events” clause is in every policy.
A tunnel in the irrigation canal collapsed in July, shutting down a system that provided water to more than 100 thousand acres of farmland around Torrington and Scottsbluff. 080819
University of Wyoming researchers will get an $8 million grant from the Federal government to support work on hydrocarbon gas technology.
The funding from the United States Department of Energy will allow researchers to field test a foam-assisted hydrocarbon gas injection technology that could ultimately recover a higher percentage of stranded oil from unconventional reservoirs.
The foam involved in the technology works to slow the flow of gas, which allows more oil to be extracted using hydraulic fracturing techniques.
$2 million in additional funding will be provided by UW, the Hess Corporation and Dow Industrial Solutions.
Initial testing will take place in the Bakken Formation in western North Dakota. 080819
The funding from the United States Department of Energy will allow researchers to field test a foam-assisted hydrocarbon gas injection technology that could ultimately recover a higher percentage of stranded oil from unconventional reservoirs.
The foam involved in the technology works to slow the flow of gas, which allows more oil to be extracted using hydraulic fracturing techniques.
$2 million in additional funding will be provided by UW, the Hess Corporation and Dow Industrial Solutions.
Initial testing will take place in the Bakken Formation in western North Dakota. 080819
Devon Energy followed up an excellent first-quarter with another strong showing in the second quarter. The Motley Fool reported Wednesday that the oil and gas producer rode robust drilling results in the Delaware Basin of West Texas and southern New Mexico to deliver guidance-crushing production.
The report also says Devon delivered strong results in the Powder River Basin, where total production jumped 28% year over year.
Devon expects this trend to continue, projecting that its oil output in Converse county will grow 50% by year-end. 080819
The report also says Devon delivered strong results in the Powder River Basin, where total production jumped 28% year over year.
Devon expects this trend to continue, projecting that its oil output in Converse county will grow 50% by year-end. 080819
The Forest Service has tossed out its draft plan for vegetation and beetle-killed trees in the Medicine Bow National Forest. That action effectively puts a hold on timber harvests in that area until further notice.
Officials say the Medicine Bow Landscape Vegetation Project Analysis Draft Record of Decision was pulled to address citizen’s concerns, strengthen the project’s impact and identify opportunities to improve the project. The project would have allowed the removal of beetle-killed timber while it is still marketable and would have reduced the risk of wildfire near communities.
The beetle infestation has become an epidemic, killing trees across 850,000 acres of forest across the Snowy and Sierra Madre ranges on the Medicine Bow National Forest.
A new draft decision is expected to be issued later this year and a new project timeline will be established, but no set date has been announced yet.
The Landscape Vegetation Project is located in Albany and Carbon counties south of the Converse County line. The project area stretches from the Colorado-Wyoming border north across the Snowy Range and Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges from approximately 25 miles west of Laramie to about 25 miles east of Baggs. 080219
Officials say the Medicine Bow Landscape Vegetation Project Analysis Draft Record of Decision was pulled to address citizen’s concerns, strengthen the project’s impact and identify opportunities to improve the project. The project would have allowed the removal of beetle-killed timber while it is still marketable and would have reduced the risk of wildfire near communities.
The beetle infestation has become an epidemic, killing trees across 850,000 acres of forest across the Snowy and Sierra Madre ranges on the Medicine Bow National Forest.
A new draft decision is expected to be issued later this year and a new project timeline will be established, but no set date has been announced yet.
The Landscape Vegetation Project is located in Albany and Carbon counties south of the Converse County line. The project area stretches from the Colorado-Wyoming border north across the Snowy Range and Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges from approximately 25 miles west of Laramie to about 25 miles east of Baggs. 080219
An oil producer is going all-in in the Powder River Basin.
Cuda Oil and Gas Inc. announced this week that they are selling all of their oil and gas assets in Quebec for a little over $8.06 million dollars.
Cuda CEO Glenn Dawson said, moving forward, Cuda will focus on development of the company’s light oil and gas assets in Converse County, Wyoming.
The sale of the company's Quebec properties is expected to close by August 30th. 072619
Cuda Oil and Gas Inc. announced this week that they are selling all of their oil and gas assets in Quebec for a little over $8.06 million dollars.
Cuda CEO Glenn Dawson said, moving forward, Cuda will focus on development of the company’s light oil and gas assets in Converse County, Wyoming.
The sale of the company's Quebec properties is expected to close by August 30th. 072619
What to do with a 55-gallon drum of Mystery Fluid?
It all ended well Tuesday morning for the Douglas Police Department.
At approximately 7:10am the Douglas Police Department, Douglas Volunteer Fire Department and the Converse County Emergency Management Coordinator were called out to the corner of 4th and Oak in downtown Douglas for a 55-gallon drum laying on the sidewalk. The drum had leaked a small amount of unknown fluid.
Based on HazMat stickers on the barrel and as a precaution, officers barricaded the area to prevent possible contamination. No evacuations were required. Emergency Management Coordinator contacted the Office of Homeland Security Region 2 Regional Response Team from Casper who were dispatched, arrived on scene, tested the contents and determined that the barrel was full of hydrogen and oxygen... H20... non-hazardous water.
The barrel was removed from the scene without incident. 072419
It all ended well Tuesday morning for the Douglas Police Department.
At approximately 7:10am the Douglas Police Department, Douglas Volunteer Fire Department and the Converse County Emergency Management Coordinator were called out to the corner of 4th and Oak in downtown Douglas for a 55-gallon drum laying on the sidewalk. The drum had leaked a small amount of unknown fluid.
Based on HazMat stickers on the barrel and as a precaution, officers barricaded the area to prevent possible contamination. No evacuations were required. Emergency Management Coordinator contacted the Office of Homeland Security Region 2 Regional Response Team from Casper who were dispatched, arrived on scene, tested the contents and determined that the barrel was full of hydrogen and oxygen... H20... non-hazardous water.
The barrel was removed from the scene without incident. 072419
The 2019 Wyoming Women of Influence Awards nominees have been announced and Converse County School District #1's Superintendent, Dr. Paige Fenton Hughes, is among those named.
The annual awards honor women across the state for their accomplishments and leadership in 15 various industry categories, including education.
After the awards banquet on Sept. 19, there will be a women’s development day conference on Sept. 20, followed by the Women’s Expo on Sept. 21 at the Casper Events Center. 072319
The annual awards honor women across the state for their accomplishments and leadership in 15 various industry categories, including education.
After the awards banquet on Sept. 19, there will be a women’s development day conference on Sept. 20, followed by the Women’s Expo on Sept. 21 at the Casper Events Center. 072319
Wyoming counties could lose out on over $30 million in mineral production taxes owed by a bankrupt coal company following a decision by a judge.
Delaware U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Kevin Gross ruled Campbell and Converse counties don't have first priority when it comes to collecting from Cloud Peak Energy.
The ruling could make it difficult for the counties to collect. Cloud Peak currently owes more than $3.3 million dollars in Converse County, who will now have to wait in line behind other creditors.
Gillette-based Cloud Peak Energy continues to operate Antelope Coal in northern Converse County. The coal company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May. 072219
Delaware U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Kevin Gross ruled Campbell and Converse counties don't have first priority when it comes to collecting from Cloud Peak Energy.
The ruling could make it difficult for the counties to collect. Cloud Peak currently owes more than $3.3 million dollars in Converse County, who will now have to wait in line behind other creditors.
Gillette-based Cloud Peak Energy continues to operate Antelope Coal in northern Converse County. The coal company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May. 072219
The Douglas City Council meets for their second regularly scheduled meeting of July tonight.
Council will hold a work session at 4pm to hear the results of a Douglas Housing Study Presentation By Scott Knudsen, and will discuss an extension of Pearson Road on the west side of the North Platte River.
Action items on tonight's agenda include amendments to the lease agreements between the City of Douglas, The Enterprise, and Father Hubbards Cupboard; bid recommendation for the Pearson Street Storm Sewer Installation; and Community Service Grant Agreements for FY2020 with Outdoor Enthusiasts of Converse County and the Wyoming Pioneer Museum.
Council meets this afternoon at 5:30 at Douglas City Hall... meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live on Vyve Cable channel 61. 072219
Council will hold a work session at 4pm to hear the results of a Douglas Housing Study Presentation By Scott Knudsen, and will discuss an extension of Pearson Road on the west side of the North Platte River.
Action items on tonight's agenda include amendments to the lease agreements between the City of Douglas, The Enterprise, and Father Hubbards Cupboard; bid recommendation for the Pearson Street Storm Sewer Installation; and Community Service Grant Agreements for FY2020 with Outdoor Enthusiasts of Converse County and the Wyoming Pioneer Museum.
Council meets this afternoon at 5:30 at Douglas City Hall... meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live on Vyve Cable channel 61. 072219
Chancy Williams and the Younger Brothers Band are returning to Douglas.
The State Fair favorites will headline a night of Wyoming music, all Wyoming bands, and the State Fair is calling it the "Wyoming Music Festival", presented by Anadarko Petroleum.
Williams says it'll be a great night of entertainment featuring Wyoming talent...
The State Fair favorites will headline a night of Wyoming music, all Wyoming bands, and the State Fair is calling it the "Wyoming Music Festival", presented by Anadarko Petroleum.
Williams says it'll be a great night of entertainment featuring Wyoming talent...
Williams told KKTY News that he and his band feel right at home on the Fairgrounds in Douglas...
The State Fair's Wyoming Music Festival, featuring Chancy Williams and the Younger Brothers Band, Tris Munsick and the Innocents and Sean Curtis, is Thursday, August 15th at 7pm during the Wyoming State Fair in Douglas. Tickets are on sale now for only $15 dollars, general admission seating.
Stop by the State Fair office for more information, or visit the website, wystatefair.com. 071619
Stop by the State Fair office for more information, or visit the website, wystatefair.com. 071619
Douglas will be ground zero for a whole lot of young marksmen this weekend... the 4H State Shooting Sports Competition is underway at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds.
Jonathan Despain is the University of Wyoming State 4H Program Coordinator...
Jonathan Despain is the University of Wyoming State 4H Program Coordinator...
Despain says there's five different disciplines for kids to choose from...
Competition takes place at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds and south of town at the Douglas Trap Club. Shooters began Thursday afternoon and continue through Saturday afternoon... the awards program is Sunday morning at 8 AM at Mc Kibben Cafeteria on the State Fairgrounds. 071119
Wyoming regulators are moving ahead with proposed rule changes for oil and gas drilling permits.
Under the proposal, the first company to file for a permit would remain first in line to drill under that permit for only two years. After that, somebody else could file to drill in the same area within a limited time.
The change seeks to address a surge in applications for drilling that never happens. The Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission has received over 57,000 drilling permit applications since 2016 but only fraction of 11,800 permits granted have resulted in drilling.
The commission voted Tuesday to advance the proposed change through its rulemaking process.
Commission officials expect to complete the process in a year. 071019
Under the proposal, the first company to file for a permit would remain first in line to drill under that permit for only two years. After that, somebody else could file to drill in the same area within a limited time.
The change seeks to address a surge in applications for drilling that never happens. The Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission has received over 57,000 drilling permit applications since 2016 but only fraction of 11,800 permits granted have resulted in drilling.
The commission voted Tuesday to advance the proposed change through its rulemaking process.
Commission officials expect to complete the process in a year. 071019
A Gillette employee of Blackjewel LLC has filed a class-action lawsuit, claiming the company failed to give its employees proper notice or pay wages and benefits earned before and after Blackjewel filed for bankruptcy then abruptly shut its mines across the United States.
David Engelbrecht is seeking 60 days’ pay and benefits from Blackjewel. The lawsuit alleges workers’ rights were violated under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, which requires at least 60 days written notice of a termination, along with paying outstanding wages and other earned benefits, like accrued vacation.
Court documents filed Monday afternoon with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court of the Southern District of West Virginia.
Blackjewel management told employees on the morning of July 1 that the company was filing bankruptcy that day. Employees were abruptly told hours later to leave and were locked out of their jobs. The lockout was ordered after Blackjewel had $20 million in emergency financing pulled that was meant to carry the company through a Chapter 11 reorganization.
Nearly 600 workers were affectted at the Eagle Butte and Belle Ayr mines in Campbell County. 071019
David Engelbrecht is seeking 60 days’ pay and benefits from Blackjewel. The lawsuit alleges workers’ rights were violated under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, which requires at least 60 days written notice of a termination, along with paying outstanding wages and other earned benefits, like accrued vacation.
Court documents filed Monday afternoon with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court of the Southern District of West Virginia.
Blackjewel management told employees on the morning of July 1 that the company was filing bankruptcy that day. Employees were abruptly told hours later to leave and were locked out of their jobs. The lockout was ordered after Blackjewel had $20 million in emergency financing pulled that was meant to carry the company through a Chapter 11 reorganization.
Nearly 600 workers were affectted at the Eagle Butte and Belle Ayr mines in Campbell County. 071019
Another green light for a new wind farm north of Douglas.
The State of Wyoming's Industrial Siting Council issued the permit Tuesday to build the Cedar Springs Wind Project 10 miles north of Douglas.
The $490 million dollar project will build 160 wind turbines on over 70,000 acres of private and state land in Converse County. The turbines will produce up to 400 megawatts of electricity.
The project will also include transformers, electrical collector lines, access roads, meteorological towers, two operations and maintenance buildings, two substations, and a 25-mile 230-kilovolt generation-tie transmission line from the project substation to the Windstar Substation near Glenrock.
Construction should begin in the third quarter of this year and be completed by the end of 2020. Construction manpower is anticipated to peak at 265 workers in July of 2020. 070919
The State of Wyoming's Industrial Siting Council issued the permit Tuesday to build the Cedar Springs Wind Project 10 miles north of Douglas.
The $490 million dollar project will build 160 wind turbines on over 70,000 acres of private and state land in Converse County. The turbines will produce up to 400 megawatts of electricity.
The project will also include transformers, electrical collector lines, access roads, meteorological towers, two operations and maintenance buildings, two substations, and a 25-mile 230-kilovolt generation-tie transmission line from the project substation to the Windstar Substation near Glenrock.
Construction should begin in the third quarter of this year and be completed by the end of 2020. Construction manpower is anticipated to peak at 265 workers in July of 2020. 070919
Two closed coal mines at Gillette are working towards reopening.
Former-CEO Jeffrey Hoops is gone, and Blackjewel LLC’s new management team is trying to secure new financing and a bankruptcy judge’s approval by Friday to reopen the company’s mines.
Lawyers for Blackjewel told a bankruptcy court over the weekend that they hope to line up the additional financing needed to bring back all of the employees and run the mines at full capacity.
Blackjewel suddenly closed its Eagle Butte and Belle Ayr coal mines north of Gillette on July 1st after United Bank balked at a $20 million loan to keep the mines operational through a Chapter 11 reorganization bankruptcy proceeding.
After three days when it appeared the mines were headed for liquidation and permanent closure, energy investment group Riverstone Financial put up $5 million in emergency funding to place a skeleton safety and security crew at Blackjewel’s mines. Hoops’ resignation was a condition of that loan.
Blackjewel is now managed by David Beckman, a member of a financial consulting firm that Blackjewel (under Hoops) hired to guide the company through bankruptcy. The new management team is negotiating for fresh financing to reopen and run the mines while bankruptcy proceedings continue. 070919
Former-CEO Jeffrey Hoops is gone, and Blackjewel LLC’s new management team is trying to secure new financing and a bankruptcy judge’s approval by Friday to reopen the company’s mines.
Lawyers for Blackjewel told a bankruptcy court over the weekend that they hope to line up the additional financing needed to bring back all of the employees and run the mines at full capacity.
Blackjewel suddenly closed its Eagle Butte and Belle Ayr coal mines north of Gillette on July 1st after United Bank balked at a $20 million loan to keep the mines operational through a Chapter 11 reorganization bankruptcy proceeding.
After three days when it appeared the mines were headed for liquidation and permanent closure, energy investment group Riverstone Financial put up $5 million in emergency funding to place a skeleton safety and security crew at Blackjewel’s mines. Hoops’ resignation was a condition of that loan.
Blackjewel is now managed by David Beckman, a member of a financial consulting firm that Blackjewel (under Hoops) hired to guide the company through bankruptcy. The new management team is negotiating for fresh financing to reopen and run the mines while bankruptcy proceedings continue. 070919
A busy evening ahead this evening for the Douglas City Council.
On tonight's agenda, the Council will consider a resolution to place a one-percent specific use tax on the ballot of a special election on Tuesday, November 5th. The tax would raise $87.5 million dollars to build a new recreation center at Bartling Park in Douglas, and for new construction and remodeling at the Glenrock Rec Center and the Glenrock South Rec Complex.
The tax would be just like the tax passed several years ago to build the new Douglas and Glenrock Libraries and the EWC Douglas Campus. The money is raised, and the tax goes away.
Council will consider a deferred development agreement with Ashby Construction, who will extend and develop Meadow Lane from South Wind River Drive east to Pearson Drive. Under the agreement, Ashby could develop the proposed street in up to three phases. The development would create a total of 67 new lots for home construction.
And Council will consider Community Service Grant agreements with 13 local agencies for fiscal year 2020.
Douglas City Council meets at 5:30 this evening at City Hall. Meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live in Douglas on Vyve Cable channel 61. 070819
On tonight's agenda, the Council will consider a resolution to place a one-percent specific use tax on the ballot of a special election on Tuesday, November 5th. The tax would raise $87.5 million dollars to build a new recreation center at Bartling Park in Douglas, and for new construction and remodeling at the Glenrock Rec Center and the Glenrock South Rec Complex.
The tax would be just like the tax passed several years ago to build the new Douglas and Glenrock Libraries and the EWC Douglas Campus. The money is raised, and the tax goes away.
Council will consider a deferred development agreement with Ashby Construction, who will extend and develop Meadow Lane from South Wind River Drive east to Pearson Drive. Under the agreement, Ashby could develop the proposed street in up to three phases. The development would create a total of 67 new lots for home construction.
And Council will consider Community Service Grant agreements with 13 local agencies for fiscal year 2020.
Douglas City Council meets at 5:30 this evening at City Hall. Meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live in Douglas on Vyve Cable channel 61. 070819
Another large Wyoming coal producer has filed bankruptcy, operations have been shut down, and about 600 coal miners are out of work.
Blackjewel LLC operated the Eagle Butte and Belle Ayre mines just north of Gillette and several other U.S. coal properties.
The West Virginia-based company filed for Chapter 11 reorganization bankruptcy Monday in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for southern West Virginia. About a half an hour after the filings, Blackjewel sent their miners home. Blackjewel's bankruptcy proposal had been rejected consequently denying the company of $20 million dollars in emergency funding to extend it’s operations.
The bankruptcy comes three days after Blackjewel missed a $1 million tax payment owed to Campbell County.
The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality is scheduled to assess the environmental aspects of the closures. The Campbell County Sheriff’s Office will assist in this effort.
Wyoming Department of Workforce Services will be in town Wednesday, July 3rd, 2019 at the campus of Gillette College.
BNSF Railroad has been contacted and apprised of the situation.
Eagle Butte ranks fourth and Belle Ayr sixth among the top-producing U.S. coal mines. The mines produced over 33 million short tons of coal in 2017 and have nearly 600 workers.
Several Wyoming coal producers including Arch Coal, Peabody Energy and Cloud Peak Energy have filed for bankruptcy in recent years amid diminished demand for coal-fired electricity. 070219
Blackjewel LLC operated the Eagle Butte and Belle Ayre mines just north of Gillette and several other U.S. coal properties.
The West Virginia-based company filed for Chapter 11 reorganization bankruptcy Monday in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for southern West Virginia. About a half an hour after the filings, Blackjewel sent their miners home. Blackjewel's bankruptcy proposal had been rejected consequently denying the company of $20 million dollars in emergency funding to extend it’s operations.
The bankruptcy comes three days after Blackjewel missed a $1 million tax payment owed to Campbell County.
The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality is scheduled to assess the environmental aspects of the closures. The Campbell County Sheriff’s Office will assist in this effort.
Wyoming Department of Workforce Services will be in town Wednesday, July 3rd, 2019 at the campus of Gillette College.
BNSF Railroad has been contacted and apprised of the situation.
Eagle Butte ranks fourth and Belle Ayr sixth among the top-producing U.S. coal mines. The mines produced over 33 million short tons of coal in 2017 and have nearly 600 workers.
Several Wyoming coal producers including Arch Coal, Peabody Energy and Cloud Peak Energy have filed for bankruptcy in recent years amid diminished demand for coal-fired electricity. 070219
A Wyoming man will protect her National Parks.
The U.S. Senate on Thursday unanimously confirmed Evanston native Rob Wallace as the new assistant secretary for the Department of Interior's Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
Wyoming's U.S. Senator John Barrasso is chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. He told KKTY News that Wallace is a terriffic choice...
The U.S. Senate on Thursday unanimously confirmed Evanston native Rob Wallace as the new assistant secretary for the Department of Interior's Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
Wyoming's U.S. Senator John Barrasso is chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. He told KKTY News that Wallace is a terriffic choice...
Past experience, Rob Wallace was a seasonal ranger at Grand Teton National Park... later in his career, Wallace was assistant director of Legislative and Congressional Affairs for the National Park Service.
He previously served as chief of staff to the late U.S. Sen. Malcolm Wallop, chief of staff to former Gov. Jim Geringer, and Republican staff director of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Wallace lives with his wife and two daughters in Jackson Hole. 062719
He previously served as chief of staff to the late U.S. Sen. Malcolm Wallop, chief of staff to former Gov. Jim Geringer, and Republican staff director of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Wallace lives with his wife and two daughters in Jackson Hole. 062719
Wyoming will receive $30.2 million from the federal government to compensate for federal land that can't be taxed locally.
U.S. Interior Secretary David Bernhardt announced the PILT payment this past week.
It will be distributed among Wyoming's 23 counties where there's land owned by the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service and other federal entities.
The payments are based on the number of federal acres within each county and the county's population.
Checks range from $3.45 million for Sweetwater County, to just over $26 thousand dollars to Laramie County.
Converse County receives a little over $985 thousand dollars in payments in lieu of taxes. 062419
U.S. Interior Secretary David Bernhardt announced the PILT payment this past week.
It will be distributed among Wyoming's 23 counties where there's land owned by the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service and other federal entities.
The payments are based on the number of federal acres within each county and the county's population.
Checks range from $3.45 million for Sweetwater County, to just over $26 thousand dollars to Laramie County.
Converse County receives a little over $985 thousand dollars in payments in lieu of taxes. 062419
Two of the world's largest coal producers have announced they will combine mining operations in Wyoming and Colorado in an attempt to improve their competitiveness against natural gas and renewable energy sources.
Arch Coal and Peabody Energy are based in St. Louis and announced the joint venture on Wednesday.
It will be 66.5% owned by Peabody and 33.5% owned by Arch.
The companies say the deal requiring approval from regulators could save about $120 million annually in mostly operational costs over 10 years.
The plan involves the North Antelope Rochelle, Black Thunder, Caballo, Rawhide and Coal Creek mines in Wyoming and the West Elk and Twentymile mines in Colorado.
The mines employed about 3,300 workers in 2018.
The companies gave no guidance on future employment levels. 062019
Arch Coal and Peabody Energy are based in St. Louis and announced the joint venture on Wednesday.
It will be 66.5% owned by Peabody and 33.5% owned by Arch.
The companies say the deal requiring approval from regulators could save about $120 million annually in mostly operational costs over 10 years.
The plan involves the North Antelope Rochelle, Black Thunder, Caballo, Rawhide and Coal Creek mines in Wyoming and the West Elk and Twentymile mines in Colorado.
The mines employed about 3,300 workers in 2018.
The companies gave no guidance on future employment levels. 062019
Wyoming's Republican congressional delegation cheered the Trump administration's move to roll back federal rules on coal-fired power plants.
U.S. Sen. Mike Enzi says the new rules replace an Obama-era Clean Power Plan designed to put coal out of business.
Enzi says the new rules will help empower states and provide needed flexibility to move toward better energy production without causing economic harm.
Rep. Liz Cheney says the new rule recognizes the need for proven sources of energy that keep the lights on in Wyoming and the country in stark contrast to proposals like the Green New Deal.
Sen. John Barrasso says the new rule lowers emissions and reverses rules that would have increased energy costs for families in Wyoming and across the country.
Wyoming is the nation's leading coal-producing state. 062019
U.S. Sen. Mike Enzi says the new rules replace an Obama-era Clean Power Plan designed to put coal out of business.
Enzi says the new rules will help empower states and provide needed flexibility to move toward better energy production without causing economic harm.
Rep. Liz Cheney says the new rule recognizes the need for proven sources of energy that keep the lights on in Wyoming and the country in stark contrast to proposals like the Green New Deal.
Sen. John Barrasso says the new rule lowers emissions and reverses rules that would have increased energy costs for families in Wyoming and across the country.
Wyoming is the nation's leading coal-producing state. 062019
A jury in Wyoming has awarded $310,000 in damages to a woman injured in a crash five years ago when a bus transporting workers plowed into a line of cars stopped for road construction.
The District Court jury awarded the damages to Anna Mitchell on Monday, a week after the trial in her lawsuit against Powder River Transportation began.
Mitchell's attorney had suggested $1 million a year was fair compensation for her knee, chest and neck injuries.
Mitchell was a passenger on one of the company's buses that plowed into eight cars on Wyoming 59 between Douglas and Gillette on May 14, 2014. Three people died in the crash.
The bus driver pleaded guilty to three counts of misdemeanor vehicular homicide and was sentenced to 30 days in jail. 062019
The District Court jury awarded the damages to Anna Mitchell on Monday, a week after the trial in her lawsuit against Powder River Transportation began.
Mitchell's attorney had suggested $1 million a year was fair compensation for her knee, chest and neck injuries.
Mitchell was a passenger on one of the company's buses that plowed into eight cars on Wyoming 59 between Douglas and Gillette on May 14, 2014. Three people died in the crash.
The bus driver pleaded guilty to three counts of misdemeanor vehicular homicide and was sentenced to 30 days in jail. 062019
Construction plans are moving ahead for a major new pipeline to deliver oil to points south.
Phillips 66 and Bridger Pipeline LLC announced that they have formed a 50/50 joint venture, Liberty Pipeline LLC, and are proceeding with construction of the Liberty Pipeline.
The 24-inch pipeline will provide crude oil transportation service from the Powder River Basin, the Bakken and the Rockies production areas to the Cushing, Oklahoma hub.
Initial service on the 350,000 barrel-a-day pipeline is targeted for the first quarter of 2021. The project is expected to cost approximately $1.6 billion. 061219
Phillips 66 and Bridger Pipeline LLC announced that they have formed a 50/50 joint venture, Liberty Pipeline LLC, and are proceeding with construction of the Liberty Pipeline.
The 24-inch pipeline will provide crude oil transportation service from the Powder River Basin, the Bakken and the Rockies production areas to the Cushing, Oklahoma hub.
Initial service on the 350,000 barrel-a-day pipeline is targeted for the first quarter of 2021. The project is expected to cost approximately $1.6 billion. 061219
The first Triple Crown winner rests in Washington Park in Douglas, and we'll mark the centennial of Sir Barton's accomplishments this evening in Douglas.
The Sir Barton Centennial Celebration begins in Washington Park with family activities from 4 til 6 pm this afternoon. There'll be a free barbecue, sponsored by Memorial Hospital of Converse County and the City of Douglas. There'll be music and games, a craft table sponsored by the Enterprise, and Living History presentations.
The Wyoming premier of the movie "Born To Rein" will be at 7 pm at the Princess Theater in downtown Douglas., sponsored by Converse County Bank, Points West Community Bank, the LaBonte Bar, and the Wyoming Pioneer Association. 061119
The Sir Barton Centennial Celebration begins in Washington Park with family activities from 4 til 6 pm this afternoon. There'll be a free barbecue, sponsored by Memorial Hospital of Converse County and the City of Douglas. There'll be music and games, a craft table sponsored by the Enterprise, and Living History presentations.
The Wyoming premier of the movie "Born To Rein" will be at 7 pm at the Princess Theater in downtown Douglas., sponsored by Converse County Bank, Points West Community Bank, the LaBonte Bar, and the Wyoming Pioneer Association. 061119
As the Memorial Day holiday approaches, Converse County Law Enforcement is reminding all drivers of the importance of seat belt use. The annual Click It or Ticket high-visibility enforcement effort runs from now through June 2nd, and is focused on enforcing seat belt use.
Converse County Law Enforcement will be especially active this Memorial Day weekend as officers, deputies and troopers will target those who are not buckling up. 052219
Converse County Law Enforcement will be especially active this Memorial Day weekend as officers, deputies and troopers will target those who are not buckling up. 052219
|
You're not hearing things... the crosswalks downtown ARE talking to you.
A group of Douglas 4th graders worked with WyDOT to get audible crosswalks for the visually-impaired installed at the three intersections in downtown Douglas.
Melody Bergquist is the Gifted and Talented teacher for Converse County School District 1. The Destination Imagination group boarded a bus for Kansas City at 2AM this morning, heading for the DI Global Competition...
|
The audible crosswalks are installed at the 2nd, 3rd and 4th street intersections on Center Street through downtown Douglas. Mark Williams with WyDOT says they're planning on installing similar technology next year at 4th and Richards, and at Yellowstone and Riverbend. 052119
This week is National Police Week.
Wyoming's annual Peace Officer Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 17th at 11:00 a.m., at the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy in Douglas.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. Each year, thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, D.C. to participate in a number of planned events which honor those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Wyoming's annual event is held at the Academy here in Douglas. The service begins Friday morning at 11 AM, and is open to the public. 051619
Wyoming's annual Peace Officer Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 17th at 11:00 a.m., at the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy in Douglas.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. Each year, thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, D.C. to participate in a number of planned events which honor those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Wyoming's annual event is held at the Academy here in Douglas. The service begins Friday morning at 11 AM, and is open to the public. 051619
Douglas's mayor was honored for her service to the community this week.
Mayor Rene Kemper received the Tony Cate Leadership Award from the Wyoming Community Foundation.
Kemper works at Youth Development Services in Douglas, which provides a long-term group home and short-term crisis shelter program for abused, neglected and delinquent youth. Kemper's been at YDS since 1990. and has served as director since 1992.
The Tony Cate Leadership Award was created four years ago by the Wyoming Community Foundation’s Casper Area Local Board to honor nonprofit leaders. Those selected for the award approach their work with care, integrity and a goal to build a better community. 051619
Mayor Rene Kemper received the Tony Cate Leadership Award from the Wyoming Community Foundation.
Kemper works at Youth Development Services in Douglas, which provides a long-term group home and short-term crisis shelter program for abused, neglected and delinquent youth. Kemper's been at YDS since 1990. and has served as director since 1992.
The Tony Cate Leadership Award was created four years ago by the Wyoming Community Foundation’s Casper Area Local Board to honor nonprofit leaders. Those selected for the award approach their work with care, integrity and a goal to build a better community. 051619
After almost eight years, Ryan Smith is returning to Alaska.
In a press release this morning, The Board of Trustees of Memorial Hospital of Converse County announced that they have accepted the resignation of hospital CEO Ryan Smith, who plans to leave the hospital at the end of the summer. Smith will become CEO at South Peninsula Hospital in Homer, AK.
MHCC Board Chair Bob Kayser said Smith provided the leadership necessary for Memorial Hospital to stabilize primary care, construct a new Medical Office Building, and expand specialty and surgical services across the region.
Smith said he worked as chief financial officer in Homer, Alaska twenty-one years ago and it's been his dream to return there some day.
Memorial Hospital of Converse County will announce an interim CEO in the coming weeks as they prepare to search for a permanent CEO. 051419
In a press release this morning, The Board of Trustees of Memorial Hospital of Converse County announced that they have accepted the resignation of hospital CEO Ryan Smith, who plans to leave the hospital at the end of the summer. Smith will become CEO at South Peninsula Hospital in Homer, AK.
MHCC Board Chair Bob Kayser said Smith provided the leadership necessary for Memorial Hospital to stabilize primary care, construct a new Medical Office Building, and expand specialty and surgical services across the region.
Smith said he worked as chief financial officer in Homer, Alaska twenty-one years ago and it's been his dream to return there some day.
Memorial Hospital of Converse County will announce an interim CEO in the coming weeks as they prepare to search for a permanent CEO. 051419
A major oil company continues to grow in Converse County.
Oil and gas producer Chesapeake Energy Corp on Wednesday reported better-than-expected quarterly production and said it expects growth in the second half to get a boost from the less-crowded Powder River Basin here in eastern Wyoming.
Reuters News agency reports Chesapeake has been moving money from its Marcellus Shale and Mid-Continent areas to the Powder River Basin, which hit a record of 42,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in May.
The company now expects to put on sale output from eight more wells in the basin during the third and fourth quarters.
Oil companies have been looking to buy into the Powder River Basin, where pipelines are not congested and land is cheaper than the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. 050819
Oil and gas producer Chesapeake Energy Corp on Wednesday reported better-than-expected quarterly production and said it expects growth in the second half to get a boost from the less-crowded Powder River Basin here in eastern Wyoming.
Reuters News agency reports Chesapeake has been moving money from its Marcellus Shale and Mid-Continent areas to the Powder River Basin, which hit a record of 42,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in May.
The company now expects to put on sale output from eight more wells in the basin during the third and fourth quarters.
Oil companies have been looking to buy into the Powder River Basin, where pipelines are not congested and land is cheaper than the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. 050819
This Friday is the 150th anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad.
The Rails to Trails Conservancy celebrated this week by announcing their preferred route for the Great American Rail Trail, a 3700 mile multi-use trail, completely separate from vehicle traffic, that will stretch across 12 states from Washington DC to Seattle Washington. The trails are built on old railroad rights-of-way, which feature easy grades for good walking and riding.
1900 miles of the trail already exists, including the six-mile Casper Rail Trail and the two-mile Al's Way in Glenrock. Both are a part of the old Chicago and Northwestern right of way.
The Great American Rail Trail's preferred route across the nation comes across the Nebraska panhandle on the old Fremont, Elkhorn and Missouri Valley right-of-way, passing through Chadron, Crawford, Lusk and Douglas.
More information is available at Great American Rail Trail.org 050819
The Rails to Trails Conservancy celebrated this week by announcing their preferred route for the Great American Rail Trail, a 3700 mile multi-use trail, completely separate from vehicle traffic, that will stretch across 12 states from Washington DC to Seattle Washington. The trails are built on old railroad rights-of-way, which feature easy grades for good walking and riding.
1900 miles of the trail already exists, including the six-mile Casper Rail Trail and the two-mile Al's Way in Glenrock. Both are a part of the old Chicago and Northwestern right of way.
The Great American Rail Trail's preferred route across the nation comes across the Nebraska panhandle on the old Fremont, Elkhorn and Missouri Valley right-of-way, passing through Chadron, Crawford, Lusk and Douglas.
More information is available at Great American Rail Trail.org 050819
A bidding war is underway for Anadarko Petroleum.
Anadarko said Monday it is siding with Occidental Petroleum's sweetened acquisition offer, switching suitors and jilting Chevron for now.
The escalating bidding war for Anadarko puts Occidental in driver's seat, placing pressure on Chevron to up its offer or walk away with the $1 billion breakup fee negotiated in its earlier merger agreement with Anadarko.
In a statement, Anadarko said it would terminate its merger agreement with Chevron in order to enter into a new one with Occidental. Chevron has four days to make a counteroffer.
The decision comes after Occidental improved its offer on Sunday, adding a lot more cash to its cash-and-stock proposal to acquire Anadarko. Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway has committed to provide $10 billion to help finance Occidental's bid. 050719
Anadarko said Monday it is siding with Occidental Petroleum's sweetened acquisition offer, switching suitors and jilting Chevron for now.
The escalating bidding war for Anadarko puts Occidental in driver's seat, placing pressure on Chevron to up its offer or walk away with the $1 billion breakup fee negotiated in its earlier merger agreement with Anadarko.
In a statement, Anadarko said it would terminate its merger agreement with Chevron in order to enter into a new one with Occidental. Chevron has four days to make a counteroffer.
The decision comes after Occidental improved its offer on Sunday, adding a lot more cash to its cash-and-stock proposal to acquire Anadarko. Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway has committed to provide $10 billion to help finance Occidental's bid. 050719
The Bureau of Land Management has issued a supplemental draft environmental impact statement for a 5,000-well oil and gas project proposed by five producers in the Powder River Basin.
A draft EIS for the Converse County Oil and Gas project was first issued by the BLM in January 2018, but after public comment, it was determined that a supplimental EIS was needed to address impacts to non-eagle raptors in the proposed planning area.
The project is proposed on about 1.5 million acres in northern Converse County. 83 percent of the project is on private land, but more than 88 thousand acres are administered by the BLM.
BLM will accept comments on the supplimental draft environmental impact statement through July 25th. 050219
A draft EIS for the Converse County Oil and Gas project was first issued by the BLM in January 2018, but after public comment, it was determined that a supplimental EIS was needed to address impacts to non-eagle raptors in the proposed planning area.
The project is proposed on about 1.5 million acres in northern Converse County. 83 percent of the project is on private land, but more than 88 thousand acres are administered by the BLM.
BLM will accept comments on the supplimental draft environmental impact statement through July 25th. 050219
Devon Energy officials say they expect oil growth driven by drilling in Texas' Permian and Wyoming's Powder River basins to accelerate in the second half of the year as the company focuses more on crude production and less on natural gas.
S&P Global Platts reports this week that Devon's oil growth in the Powder River Basin is set to accelerate more than 50% by the 4th quarter of 2019 from Q4 2018's 13,000 barrels a day. 050219
S&P Global Platts reports this week that Devon's oil growth in the Powder River Basin is set to accelerate more than 50% by the 4th quarter of 2019 from Q4 2018's 13,000 barrels a day. 050219
The American Veterans Traveling Tribute Vietnam Wall goes on display today at Casper College, with construction of the wall starting at 9 a.m. The opening ceremony will start this evening at 5:30 p.m.
The opening ceremony will feature Casper Mayor Charlie Powell, Casper College President Darren Divine, Ph.D., and Governor Mark Gordon. The keynote address will be given by Eric A. Distad, a Vietnam veteran from Casper.
On Friday, May 3, a folding of the flag ceremony will be held featuring trumpet players from Casper College. A closing ceremony for the wall will be held on Sunday, May 5 at 3 p.m.
The wall replica is the largest traveling Vietnam Wall replica and is 80% of the size of the actual wall in Washington, D.C. It stands 8 feet tall and 360 feet long, and is engraved with the 58,318 names of those lost in the Vietnam War. In addition to the wall, 123 flags will be posted in honor of the 123 from Wyoming lost in the Vietnam War.
An interactive and educational name finder associated with the wall will be available while the wall is on display through Sunday afternoon at Casper College. 050219
The opening ceremony will feature Casper Mayor Charlie Powell, Casper College President Darren Divine, Ph.D., and Governor Mark Gordon. The keynote address will be given by Eric A. Distad, a Vietnam veteran from Casper.
On Friday, May 3, a folding of the flag ceremony will be held featuring trumpet players from Casper College. A closing ceremony for the wall will be held on Sunday, May 5 at 3 p.m.
The wall replica is the largest traveling Vietnam Wall replica and is 80% of the size of the actual wall in Washington, D.C. It stands 8 feet tall and 360 feet long, and is engraved with the 58,318 names of those lost in the Vietnam War. In addition to the wall, 123 flags will be posted in honor of the 123 from Wyoming lost in the Vietnam War.
An interactive and educational name finder associated with the wall will be available while the wall is on display through Sunday afternoon at Casper College. 050219
The Wyoming State Geological Survey has published a new pamphlet about the geology in Guernsey State Park. It is the third in a series of information pamphlets highlighting the geology in Wyoming’s state parks.
The park is home to Guernsey Reservoir, and is situated along the North Platte River just north of the town of Guernsey. One of the most prominent features of the park are the bluffs of limestone and sandstone that rise above the eastern half of the reservoir and along the river. The pamphlet explains the origin of these rocks and others that occur around the reservoir.
The park is located within the Hartville Uplift, a small mountain range with rocks showcasing more than 2.5 billion years of Earth’s history.
The goal of the publication series is to provide park visitors with a glimpse of the area’s geology.
Pamphlets are free and are available at the parks’ visitor centers, and as a free download from the WSGS website. 050219
The park is home to Guernsey Reservoir, and is situated along the North Platte River just north of the town of Guernsey. One of the most prominent features of the park are the bluffs of limestone and sandstone that rise above the eastern half of the reservoir and along the river. The pamphlet explains the origin of these rocks and others that occur around the reservoir.
The park is located within the Hartville Uplift, a small mountain range with rocks showcasing more than 2.5 billion years of Earth’s history.
The goal of the publication series is to provide park visitors with a glimpse of the area’s geology.
Pamphlets are free and are available at the parks’ visitor centers, and as a free download from the WSGS website. 050219
A utility company is considering early retirement for one Wyoming coal-fired power plant and part of another to keep down costs.
Portland, Oregon-based PacifiCorp said Thursday that four coal-fired units in Wyoming are leading early-retirement candidates, two at the Naughton plant outside Kemmerer and two at the Jim Bridger plant outside Rock Springs.
Coal-fired power has become less economical compared to low-priced natural gas generation and increasingly inexpensive wind and solar power.
PacifiCorp shut down one of Naughton's three units in January. Shutting down all three could mean the plant's closure, though PacifiCorp may convert one unit to burn natural gas.The company is studying the potential savings of retiring coal-fired generating units as early as 2022.
PacifiCorp also owns and operates the Dave Johnston Power Plant in Converse County at Glenrock. 042619
Portland, Oregon-based PacifiCorp said Thursday that four coal-fired units in Wyoming are leading early-retirement candidates, two at the Naughton plant outside Kemmerer and two at the Jim Bridger plant outside Rock Springs.
Coal-fired power has become less economical compared to low-priced natural gas generation and increasingly inexpensive wind and solar power.
PacifiCorp shut down one of Naughton's three units in January. Shutting down all three could mean the plant's closure, though PacifiCorp may convert one unit to burn natural gas.The company is studying the potential savings of retiring coal-fired generating units as early as 2022.
PacifiCorp also owns and operates the Dave Johnston Power Plant in Converse County at Glenrock. 042619
Douglas High School students got an up-close look at the anatomy of a car crash this morning.
Douglas police, fire, ambulance and other emergency services staged a mock head-on car crash in the back parking lot at the high school. The program serves to illustrate the dangers and consequences of drinking and driving, and distracted driving.
DHS Assistant Principal Steve Walker says it's a learning experience for the students who watched...
Douglas police, fire, ambulance and other emergency services staged a mock head-on car crash in the back parking lot at the high school. The program serves to illustrate the dangers and consequences of drinking and driving, and distracted driving.
DHS Assistant Principal Steve Walker says it's a learning experience for the students who watched...
DHS juniors and seniors watched the crash scene in the parking lot, where emergency responders used the Jaws of Life on both vehicles to extricate the victims, some of whom survived, and some who didn't. Then everyone moved into the high school auditorium, which was set up to simulate an emergency room to demonstrate what victims go through.
The morning's presentation finished up with a person who had been involved in a real event speaking to the students.
Douglas High School and the community's emergency responders present the program in advance of prom and graduation to help students learn to celebrate wisely. 042519
The morning's presentation finished up with a person who had been involved in a real event speaking to the students.
Douglas High School and the community's emergency responders present the program in advance of prom and graduation to help students learn to celebrate wisely. 042519
No Old Dominion concert in Casper.
Spectra Venue Management at the Casper Events Center has announced that the April 10th Old Dominion “Make It Sweet” Tour stop in Casper will not be rescheduled. The concert was postponed due to unsafe weather conditions. Old Dominion’s current touring schedule won’t allow for a return to the Casper area until 2020 or 2021.
So, all fans that purchased tickets will be refunded. If you bought your ticket with a Credit Card, you don't have to do anything... a credit will be processed to the credit card of purchase. Tickets purchased by credit card do not need to be returned to the SinclairTix Box Office. Your credit should show up on your statement within 7 to 10 business days.
If tickets were purchased by cash, the tickets will need to be returned to the SinclairTix Box Office, where customers will need to present ID and sign a voucher for the cash refund. Please call the Box Office at (307) 577-3030 or 800-442-2256 for more information. 042419
Spectra Venue Management at the Casper Events Center has announced that the April 10th Old Dominion “Make It Sweet” Tour stop in Casper will not be rescheduled. The concert was postponed due to unsafe weather conditions. Old Dominion’s current touring schedule won’t allow for a return to the Casper area until 2020 or 2021.
So, all fans that purchased tickets will be refunded. If you bought your ticket with a Credit Card, you don't have to do anything... a credit will be processed to the credit card of purchase. Tickets purchased by credit card do not need to be returned to the SinclairTix Box Office. Your credit should show up on your statement within 7 to 10 business days.
If tickets were purchased by cash, the tickets will need to be returned to the SinclairTix Box Office, where customers will need to present ID and sign a voucher for the cash refund. Please call the Box Office at (307) 577-3030 or 800-442-2256 for more information. 042419
Ten Wyoming school districts got the green light to go to four-day weeks next year.
The Wyoming State Board of Education approved the changes at their meeting last week.
All schools in Campbell No. 1, including Gillette and Wright, Carbon No. 2 at Saratoga, Crook No. 1 at Sundance, Moorcroft and Hulett, Laramie No. 2 at Albin, Burns, Carpenter and Pine Bluffs, Sheridan No. 1 at Dayton, Ranchester and Big Horn, and Sheridan No. 3 at Arvada-Clearmont received the board’s approval for the alternative school week.
Little Snake River Valley Schools in Carbon No. 1, Lusk Elementary and Middle School, Niobrara High School and Lance Creek Elementary in Niobrara No. 1 will also operate on four-day schedules.
The four-day school week will still require the same number of school minutes for students... 900 minutes per week at the elementary level and 1,100 minutes at the secondary level.
Many of the schools will operate on an 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Thursday schedule. 032619
The Wyoming State Board of Education approved the changes at their meeting last week.
All schools in Campbell No. 1, including Gillette and Wright, Carbon No. 2 at Saratoga, Crook No. 1 at Sundance, Moorcroft and Hulett, Laramie No. 2 at Albin, Burns, Carpenter and Pine Bluffs, Sheridan No. 1 at Dayton, Ranchester and Big Horn, and Sheridan No. 3 at Arvada-Clearmont received the board’s approval for the alternative school week.
Little Snake River Valley Schools in Carbon No. 1, Lusk Elementary and Middle School, Niobrara High School and Lance Creek Elementary in Niobrara No. 1 will also operate on four-day schedules.
The four-day school week will still require the same number of school minutes for students... 900 minutes per week at the elementary level and 1,100 minutes at the secondary level.
Many of the schools will operate on an 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Thursday schedule. 032619
It's time to clean the river.
The Wyoming Game & Fish has requested a flushing flow on the North Platte River for ten days beginning this Friday, March 29th.
The flushing flow helps clear and maintain fish spawning habitats, and increases production of invertebrates that fish depend on for food.
Flows out of Gray Reef Reservoir at Alcova will increase each day from 500 cubic feet per second, to 4 thousand cubic feet per second, then back down to 500 cfs.
The Wyoming Game & Fish and the Bureau of Reclamation advise anyone using the river between Alcova and Glendo beginning this weekend to be aware of the possibility of rising and lowering water levels. 032619
The Wyoming Game & Fish has requested a flushing flow on the North Platte River for ten days beginning this Friday, March 29th.
The flushing flow helps clear and maintain fish spawning habitats, and increases production of invertebrates that fish depend on for food.
Flows out of Gray Reef Reservoir at Alcova will increase each day from 500 cubic feet per second, to 4 thousand cubic feet per second, then back down to 500 cfs.
The Wyoming Game & Fish and the Bureau of Reclamation advise anyone using the river between Alcova and Glendo beginning this weekend to be aware of the possibility of rising and lowering water levels. 032619
The Wyoming Highway Patrol recently commissioned 11 Cadets to the rank of Trooper on the completion of their intensive training academy.
Swearing-in ceremonies took place in front of family and friends at the Wyoming Supreme Court on Thursday, March 21st. The ceremony marked the 96th graduated class from the Wyoming Highway Patrol Academy.
Several of the new Troopers are stationed locally. They include
• Trooper Joseph M. Hurdle (Badge # 143 Douglas)
• Trooper Cody J. Kubinak (Badge # 105 Douglas)
• Trooper Clinton W. Keithley (Badge # 132 Casper)
• Trooper Samuel M. Taylor (Badge # 209 Casper)
• Trooper Jeramiah D. Pittsley (Badge # 211 Glenrock)
As part of their swearing-in ceremonies, several awards were handed out.
Colonel’s Leadership Award: Trooper Clinton W. Keithley
Top Academic Award: Trooper Samuel M. Taylor
Top Firearms Award: Trooper Cody J. Kubinak
Most Improved Fitness Award: Trooper Joseph M. Hurdle
“Esperit de Corps” Award: Trooper Jeramiah D. Pittsley 032219
Swearing-in ceremonies took place in front of family and friends at the Wyoming Supreme Court on Thursday, March 21st. The ceremony marked the 96th graduated class from the Wyoming Highway Patrol Academy.
Several of the new Troopers are stationed locally. They include
• Trooper Joseph M. Hurdle (Badge # 143 Douglas)
• Trooper Cody J. Kubinak (Badge # 105 Douglas)
• Trooper Clinton W. Keithley (Badge # 132 Casper)
• Trooper Samuel M. Taylor (Badge # 209 Casper)
• Trooper Jeramiah D. Pittsley (Badge # 211 Glenrock)
As part of their swearing-in ceremonies, several awards were handed out.
Colonel’s Leadership Award: Trooper Clinton W. Keithley
Top Academic Award: Trooper Samuel M. Taylor
Top Firearms Award: Trooper Cody J. Kubinak
Most Improved Fitness Award: Trooper Joseph M. Hurdle
“Esperit de Corps” Award: Trooper Jeramiah D. Pittsley 032219
A convoy from Wyoming will deliver aid to residents affected by flooding in the Midwest.
Casper resident Jordan Farley said he and some other citizen volunteers will be taking donated items to assist in disaster relief efforts in Nebraska.
Farley said the volunteers have five vehicles and some trailers to haul the donations to Nebraska and possibly into Iowa.
Suggested items needed in the flood area include water, non-perishable food items, baby food and formula.
Donations can be dropped off in Casper, at Color Palette Salon, and 307 Motors.
In Glenrock Renegade Off-Road and Driveline Repair, .
In Douglas, the College Inn, and the Plains Motel and Trading Post, are accepting donations.
In Lusk, the drop-off spot is the Lusk Herald, located at 227 South Main Street.
In Guernsey, the drop of location is 327 South Iowa Avenue. 032119
Casper resident Jordan Farley said he and some other citizen volunteers will be taking donated items to assist in disaster relief efforts in Nebraska.
Farley said the volunteers have five vehicles and some trailers to haul the donations to Nebraska and possibly into Iowa.
Suggested items needed in the flood area include water, non-perishable food items, baby food and formula.
Donations can be dropped off in Casper, at Color Palette Salon, and 307 Motors.
In Glenrock Renegade Off-Road and Driveline Repair, .
In Douglas, the College Inn, and the Plains Motel and Trading Post, are accepting donations.
In Lusk, the drop-off spot is the Lusk Herald, located at 227 South Main Street.
In Guernsey, the drop of location is 327 South Iowa Avenue. 032119
Following last week's snowstorm, Wyoming forecasters are keeping an eye on the potential for spring flooding.
The National Weather Service in Riverton issued their Wyoming spring snowmelt flood potential outlook on Monday, March 18th.
It showed mountain snowpack and associated snow water equivalents across most of Wyoming were generally above average. Snow water equivalents at the peak snowmelt runoff elevations of 8,500’ – 10,000’ were the highest across the Little Snake, Upper North Platte, and Laramie Basins at 120 to 130 percent of median.
Moderate potential for snowmelt runoff flooding is forecast along the lower portions of the Upper North Platte River Basin near Saratoga and along the lower portions of the Laramie Watershed near Laramie.
The snowmelt flood potential outlook on the Northern Laramie Range, north of Laramie Peak to Douglas and Casper, was generally still showing low to moderate potential for flooding. 032019
The National Weather Service in Riverton issued their Wyoming spring snowmelt flood potential outlook on Monday, March 18th.
It showed mountain snowpack and associated snow water equivalents across most of Wyoming were generally above average. Snow water equivalents at the peak snowmelt runoff elevations of 8,500’ – 10,000’ were the highest across the Little Snake, Upper North Platte, and Laramie Basins at 120 to 130 percent of median.
Moderate potential for snowmelt runoff flooding is forecast along the lower portions of the Upper North Platte River Basin near Saratoga and along the lower portions of the Laramie Watershed near Laramie.
The snowmelt flood potential outlook on the Northern Laramie Range, north of Laramie Peak to Douglas and Casper, was generally still showing low to moderate potential for flooding. 032019
The U.S. government has approved the expansion of a Wyoming uranium mine and is reviewing plans for a new mine not far away.
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management announced Tuesday it has approved an expansion to double the surface area of Ur-Energy's Lost Creek Mine 40 miles northwest of Rawlins near the Carbon-Sweetwater County line.
The modifications would increase the area authorized for mining operations, and would allow LCI to vertically expand mining into the next deeper layer of mineralized sandstone.
The BLM is meanwhile reviewing the company's plans for another in-situ mine located at a former conventional uranium-mining site about 50 miles away.
The Shirley Basin Mine would be built at a conventional, surface-pit uranium mining site that operated from the 1960s to the 1990s.
Water pumped from in-situ mines is processed into a uranium concentrate. The concentrate is then processed into nuclear fuel. 032019
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management announced Tuesday it has approved an expansion to double the surface area of Ur-Energy's Lost Creek Mine 40 miles northwest of Rawlins near the Carbon-Sweetwater County line.
The modifications would increase the area authorized for mining operations, and would allow LCI to vertically expand mining into the next deeper layer of mineralized sandstone.
The BLM is meanwhile reviewing the company's plans for another in-situ mine located at a former conventional uranium-mining site about 50 miles away.
The Shirley Basin Mine would be built at a conventional, surface-pit uranium mining site that operated from the 1960s to the 1990s.
Water pumped from in-situ mines is processed into a uranium concentrate. The concentrate is then processed into nuclear fuel. 032019
Wyoming's small towns are losing their general store.
Shopko announced today that they are closing all of remaining stores by mid June.
The chain has been operating in Chapter 11 bankruptcy since January, and closed its in-store pharmacies last month.
Shopko announced they were unable to find a buyer for the business and will begin an orderly wind-down of their retail operations beginning this week.
Founded in 1962 and headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Shopko operated more than 360 stores in 26 states throughout the Central, Western and Pacific Northwest regions.
Shopko had stores in 13 Wyoming communities including Buffalo, Newcastle, Wheatland, Torrington, and Douglas. All are set to close by June 16th. 031819
Shopko announced today that they are closing all of remaining stores by mid June.
The chain has been operating in Chapter 11 bankruptcy since January, and closed its in-store pharmacies last month.
Shopko announced they were unable to find a buyer for the business and will begin an orderly wind-down of their retail operations beginning this week.
Founded in 1962 and headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Shopko operated more than 360 stores in 26 states throughout the Central, Western and Pacific Northwest regions.
Shopko had stores in 13 Wyoming communities including Buffalo, Newcastle, Wheatland, Torrington, and Douglas. All are set to close by June 16th. 031819
A Rock Springs man was killed in a fatal crash on Hwy 59 north of Bill on Sunday.
41-year-old Jesse Ray Wagner was traveling south on 59 when his vehicle entered the northbound lane. 76-year-old Glendo resident William Krieger Neuharth saw Wagner coming and attempted to take evasive action, but they collided head-on.
Neuharth was wearing his seatbelt but transported to the Memorial Hospital of Converse County for injuries he sustained in the crash.
Wagner was not wearing his seatbelt and died of injuries at the scene of the crash. Driver fatigue on the part of Wagner is being investigated as a contributing factor.
This is the 21st fatality on Wyoming’s highways in 2019, almost double compared to this date in 2018. 030519
41-year-old Jesse Ray Wagner was traveling south on 59 when his vehicle entered the northbound lane. 76-year-old Glendo resident William Krieger Neuharth saw Wagner coming and attempted to take evasive action, but they collided head-on.
Neuharth was wearing his seatbelt but transported to the Memorial Hospital of Converse County for injuries he sustained in the crash.
Wagner was not wearing his seatbelt and died of injuries at the scene of the crash. Driver fatigue on the part of Wagner is being investigated as a contributing factor.
This is the 21st fatality on Wyoming’s highways in 2019, almost double compared to this date in 2018. 030519
Two crew members were injured and diesel fuel was spilled into the North Platte River when two BNSF coal trains wrecked in Wendover Canyon near Guernsey Monday afternoon.
The railway company says a loaded BNSF coal train hit the rear of another BNSF coal train about 15 miles west of Guernsey. The impact resulted in 3 derailed locomotives and 4 derailed cars. Two crew members sustained non-life threatening injuries and were treated and released from a local hospital.
Worst case, as much as 6,000 gallons of fuel may have leaked out of the locomotives. Crews have placed a containment boom in the North Platte River at the leading edge of the diesel fuel, and outflow has been cut back from Glendo Reservoir to limit dispersal of the fuel in the river.
BNSF crews are working to clear the site and restore the track. The incident is under investigation. 020519
The railway company says a loaded BNSF coal train hit the rear of another BNSF coal train about 15 miles west of Guernsey. The impact resulted in 3 derailed locomotives and 4 derailed cars. Two crew members sustained non-life threatening injuries and were treated and released from a local hospital.
Worst case, as much as 6,000 gallons of fuel may have leaked out of the locomotives. Crews have placed a containment boom in the North Platte River at the leading edge of the diesel fuel, and outflow has been cut back from Glendo Reservoir to limit dispersal of the fuel in the river.
BNSF crews are working to clear the site and restore the track. The incident is under investigation. 020519
Several proposals that would raise taxes on wind energy in Wyoming have died in the state Legislature.
The bills included one to raise the $1 per megawatt hour tax to $4 per megawatt hour and another to add $4 to the existing tax for a total of $5 per megawatt hour.
A third proposal that would have imposed a five-year escalating tax also died.
The wind tax may still come up again in a different forum. Republican Sen. Cale Case, of Lander, has been a proponent of raising the tax for years and has encouraged an initiative attempt to put the wind tax on the ballot in 2020.
The wind energy business is alive and well here in Converse County.
Construction is slated to begin this spring on Rocky Mountain Power's 400 MW Cedar Springs wind project north of Douglas. The wind farm will have more than 150 turbines, and will be located north of I-25 and west of the Energy Highway, Highway 59. 020519
The bills included one to raise the $1 per megawatt hour tax to $4 per megawatt hour and another to add $4 to the existing tax for a total of $5 per megawatt hour.
A third proposal that would have imposed a five-year escalating tax also died.
The wind tax may still come up again in a different forum. Republican Sen. Cale Case, of Lander, has been a proponent of raising the tax for years and has encouraged an initiative attempt to put the wind tax on the ballot in 2020.
The wind energy business is alive and well here in Converse County.
Construction is slated to begin this spring on Rocky Mountain Power's 400 MW Cedar Springs wind project north of Douglas. The wind farm will have more than 150 turbines, and will be located north of I-25 and west of the Energy Highway, Highway 59. 020519
Glenrock's big summer festival is taking a new page on the calendar.
Faced with competition from other events, organizers for Deer Creek Days have chosen to move the event. Traditionally, Deer Creek Days has been held the first week in August. Beartrap Summer Music festival moved to the same weekend several years ago, and rather than continuing to compete for vendors and attendance, the Deer Creek group chose to move their event to June 21st, 22nd and 23rd.
The Deer Creek Days volunteers will meet again on Thursday, February 7th at 6 p.m. at the Glenrock Town Hall. 020119
Faced with competition from other events, organizers for Deer Creek Days have chosen to move the event. Traditionally, Deer Creek Days has been held the first week in August. Beartrap Summer Music festival moved to the same weekend several years ago, and rather than continuing to compete for vendors and attendance, the Deer Creek group chose to move their event to June 21st, 22nd and 23rd.
The Deer Creek Days volunteers will meet again on Thursday, February 7th at 6 p.m. at the Glenrock Town Hall. 020119
Wyoming beef is finding its way to dinner tables in Taiwan.
Chester Chu is director of the Wyoming-Asia Pacific Trade Office. Chu says Taiwan relies completely on imported beef. He said is a growing middle class with disposable income, plus an increasing taste and demand for American beef. Chu says retail price for beef in Taiwan is likely to more than make up for the cost of exporting it.
The state opened the Wyoming-Asia Pacific Trade Office in Taipei, Taiwan, and hired Chu in the fall of 2018 after the Legislature allocated money from the state’s general fund to encourage the export of products and services from Wyoming to national and international markets. Chu made his first visit to Wyoming last week. He will make another trip later this year.
More details on this story from the Wyoming Business Council. 013019
Chester Chu is director of the Wyoming-Asia Pacific Trade Office. Chu says Taiwan relies completely on imported beef. He said is a growing middle class with disposable income, plus an increasing taste and demand for American beef. Chu says retail price for beef in Taiwan is likely to more than make up for the cost of exporting it.
The state opened the Wyoming-Asia Pacific Trade Office in Taipei, Taiwan, and hired Chu in the fall of 2018 after the Legislature allocated money from the state’s general fund to encourage the export of products and services from Wyoming to national and international markets. Chu made his first visit to Wyoming last week. He will make another trip later this year.
More details on this story from the Wyoming Business Council. 013019
Kinder Morgan and Tallgrass Energy have announced a joint oil pipeline project in the Rockies that will leverage their existing assets to move rapidly growing oil volumes out of the region.
The proposed joint venture will increase the existing oil takeaway capacity in the Powder River and DJ Basins as well as add incremental capacity to the Bakken Shale region and Western Canada.
Tallgrass Energy would contribute its Pony Express Pipeline System, which begins at Guernsey and moves oil from Wyoming and Colorado.
Kinder Morgan will contribute portions of its Wyoming Interstate Company system and Cheyenne Plains Gas Pipeline -- which it will convert to crude oil service -- to the partnership. The companies will also construct 200 miles of new pipeline.
Overall, the system would be capable of transporting 800,000 BPD of light crude oil produced out of shale plays like the Bakken and Powder River Basin. The system would move this oil to Kinder Morgan's Deeprock terminal in Cushing, Oklahoma. 012419
The proposed joint venture will increase the existing oil takeaway capacity in the Powder River and DJ Basins as well as add incremental capacity to the Bakken Shale region and Western Canada.
Tallgrass Energy would contribute its Pony Express Pipeline System, which begins at Guernsey and moves oil from Wyoming and Colorado.
Kinder Morgan will contribute portions of its Wyoming Interstate Company system and Cheyenne Plains Gas Pipeline -- which it will convert to crude oil service -- to the partnership. The companies will also construct 200 miles of new pipeline.
Overall, the system would be capable of transporting 800,000 BPD of light crude oil produced out of shale plays like the Bakken and Powder River Basin. The system would move this oil to Kinder Morgan's Deeprock terminal in Cushing, Oklahoma. 012419
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon is looking at at least three potential sites for the experimental coal-generating plant he wants to build in the state.
Governor Gordon said Friday that the Integrated Test Center near Gillette is one possibility. The other potential sites include the Dave Johnston Power Plant at Glenrock and the Jim Bridger Plant in Sweetwater County.
Gordon has asked state lawmakers for $10 million to build a 5-megawatt plant that would be capable of capturing at least 75 percent of its carbon emissions.
The money would be used to leverage up to $40 million in federal grant funding to supplement the work of the test center, a research facility at the Dry Fork Station power plant. 012019
Governor Gordon said Friday that the Integrated Test Center near Gillette is one possibility. The other potential sites include the Dave Johnston Power Plant at Glenrock and the Jim Bridger Plant in Sweetwater County.
Gordon has asked state lawmakers for $10 million to build a 5-megawatt plant that would be capable of capturing at least 75 percent of its carbon emissions.
The money would be used to leverage up to $40 million in federal grant funding to supplement the work of the test center, a research facility at the Dry Fork Station power plant. 012019
Legislation that would repeal the death penalty in Wyoming has been introduced in the state Legislature.
Republican Rep. Jared Olsen, of Cheyenne, and Republican Sen. Brian Boner, of Douglas, are the main sponsors of House Bill 145, which would leave life in prison without parole as the most severe penalty available.
Olsen says the death penalty is costly and ineffective, noting that the state public defender office spends about $750,000 a year in taxpayer money on capital cases.
The Legislative Service Office estimates the elimination of the death penalty would save the state that amount of money each year.
Boner says the state has not executed anyone in 27 years and currently has no inmates on death row. 011619
Republican Rep. Jared Olsen, of Cheyenne, and Republican Sen. Brian Boner, of Douglas, are the main sponsors of House Bill 145, which would leave life in prison without parole as the most severe penalty available.
Olsen says the death penalty is costly and ineffective, noting that the state public defender office spends about $750,000 a year in taxpayer money on capital cases.
The Legislative Service Office estimates the elimination of the death penalty would save the state that amount of money each year.
Boner says the state has not executed anyone in 27 years and currently has no inmates on death row. 011619
The Converse County Commissioners have set their leadership for the next two years.
At their first meeting of 2019 last Wednesday, the commissioners elected Robert Short to serve as commission chairman. Jim Willox will serve as vice-chair.
The commissioners also chose Willox to serve on the Wyoming County Commissioners Association Board of Directors for a two-year term, and Chairman Short appointed commissioners Tony Lehner, Mike Colling and Jim Willox as voting members of the Converse County Municipal and Joint Powers Board.
The next official meeting of the Converse County Commission is Tuesday, January 15th. 010719
At their first meeting of 2019 last Wednesday, the commissioners elected Robert Short to serve as commission chairman. Jim Willox will serve as vice-chair.
The commissioners also chose Willox to serve on the Wyoming County Commissioners Association Board of Directors for a two-year term, and Chairman Short appointed commissioners Tony Lehner, Mike Colling and Jim Willox as voting members of the Converse County Municipal and Joint Powers Board.
The next official meeting of the Converse County Commission is Tuesday, January 15th. 010719
Two Niobrara County men died in an accident Thursday evening on Highway 18/20 just west of Lusk.
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers were dispatched to the area for a two-vehicle collision at 6:13 pm.
A 1999 Chevrolet truck was traveling west on US 18/20 when the vehicle crossed the center line and entered the eastbound lane colliding head-on with a 1997 Pontiac car.
The driver of the Pontiac has been identified as 29-year-old Lusk, Wyoming resident Kyle Blake.
The driver of the Chevrolet has been identified as 76-year-old Manville, Wyoming resident Ewart Johnson. Both men died at the scene of the crash. 010419
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers were dispatched to the area for a two-vehicle collision at 6:13 pm.
A 1999 Chevrolet truck was traveling west on US 18/20 when the vehicle crossed the center line and entered the eastbound lane colliding head-on with a 1997 Pontiac car.
The driver of the Pontiac has been identified as 29-year-old Lusk, Wyoming resident Kyle Blake.
The driver of the Chevrolet has been identified as 76-year-old Manville, Wyoming resident Ewart Johnson. Both men died at the scene of the crash. 010419
A Washington man died Wednesday in a two-car accident about nine miles south of Wheatland on I-25.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol says a 2004 Toyota Corolla had pulled off the interstate in the emergency lane to investigate a strange noise coming from the vehicle. A passenger in the vehicle was standing in front of the car, when a farm tractor hauling hay collided with the stopped vehicle. The tractor came to a stop partially blocking the northbound lanes of the interstate. The driver of the tractor backed up to clear the interstate and hit the passenger of the Toyota.
21-year-old Lacey, Washington resident John Steele died from his injuries at the scene of the crash.
The driver of the farm tractor was a Wheatland resident and was not injured.
This is the 1st fatality on Wyoming’s highways in 2019. 010419
The Wyoming Highway Patrol says a 2004 Toyota Corolla had pulled off the interstate in the emergency lane to investigate a strange noise coming from the vehicle. A passenger in the vehicle was standing in front of the car, when a farm tractor hauling hay collided with the stopped vehicle. The tractor came to a stop partially blocking the northbound lanes of the interstate. The driver of the tractor backed up to clear the interstate and hit the passenger of the Toyota.
21-year-old Lacey, Washington resident John Steele died from his injuries at the scene of the crash.
The driver of the farm tractor was a Wheatland resident and was not injured.
This is the 1st fatality on Wyoming’s highways in 2019. 010419
Chesapeake Energy CEO Doug Lawler tells the Wall Street Journal that lower oil prices stress a company like Chesapeake, but the Oklahoma City-based company plans to dedicate at least 80% of 2019 capital expenditures to oil production because it sees crude as the key to a more profitable future.
Lawler says Chesapeake needs to produce more in order to improve cash flow, and its operations here in the Powder River Basin, where it added a fifth drilling rig last year, will be a test; it costs CHK ~$8M to drill and frack each of its wells in Wyoming, compared with ~$6M per well in the Eagle Ford shale of South Texas, but the company says the extra expense is worth it because Powder River Basin wells are more prolific.
Chesapeake says it has fine-tuned its approach so that its Wyoming wells can generate returns at $25-$35/bbl oil, which is well below the overall Powder River Basin average of $47, but those breakeven prices do not include full corporate overhead or land costs; consulting firm RS Energy says the average all-inclusive breakeven for Powder River is still at $61/bbl. 010319
Lawler says Chesapeake needs to produce more in order to improve cash flow, and its operations here in the Powder River Basin, where it added a fifth drilling rig last year, will be a test; it costs CHK ~$8M to drill and frack each of its wells in Wyoming, compared with ~$6M per well in the Eagle Ford shale of South Texas, but the company says the extra expense is worth it because Powder River Basin wells are more prolific.
Chesapeake says it has fine-tuned its approach so that its Wyoming wells can generate returns at $25-$35/bbl oil, which is well below the overall Powder River Basin average of $47, but those breakeven prices do not include full corporate overhead or land costs; consulting firm RS Energy says the average all-inclusive breakeven for Powder River is still at $61/bbl. 010319
Recent data shows Wyoming's average rate of unemployment remains higher than national numbers.
The U.S. unemployment rate currently sits at 3.7 percent compared to Wyoming's 4.2 percent.
The state's gradual climb out of a simultaneous bust in coal, oil and gas has yet to fill the gaps in jobs and state income created by the downturn. But a year and a half of favorable crude prices has shifted job numbers, particularly in areas of the state where activity in the oil and gas fields predominates.
Converse County's been a particular bright spot.
In just one month – from September to October – the unemployment rate in Converse County dropped from 3.6 percent to 3.1 percent. Converse is the richest area for current and anticipated oil and gas drilling and production in the state. The county hit a three-year record for applications for drilling permits in March of this year, when more than 1,000 applications were submitted to the state. 112718
The U.S. unemployment rate currently sits at 3.7 percent compared to Wyoming's 4.2 percent.
The state's gradual climb out of a simultaneous bust in coal, oil and gas has yet to fill the gaps in jobs and state income created by the downturn. But a year and a half of favorable crude prices has shifted job numbers, particularly in areas of the state where activity in the oil and gas fields predominates.
Converse County's been a particular bright spot.
In just one month – from September to October – the unemployment rate in Converse County dropped from 3.6 percent to 3.1 percent. Converse is the richest area for current and anticipated oil and gas drilling and production in the state. The county hit a three-year record for applications for drilling permits in March of this year, when more than 1,000 applications were submitted to the state. 112718
The Douglas Boys and Girls Club got another green light last night.
After discussion of proper fencing to go around the playground at the back of the building, the Douglas City Council voted 5-0 Monday night to approve development plans for a new facility to be built at 802 Riverbend, just west of the river and just off West Yellowstone.
An acre and a half of land has been donated to the Boys and Girls Club. The planned facility will be just over 13,000 square feet, and will replace the old city-owned building on 4th Street.
The Douglas Boys and Girls Club program is growing, serving 290 kids in 2018, a 15 percent increase over 2017.
A fundraising campaign is underway for the $7 million dollar project. 112718
After discussion of proper fencing to go around the playground at the back of the building, the Douglas City Council voted 5-0 Monday night to approve development plans for a new facility to be built at 802 Riverbend, just west of the river and just off West Yellowstone.
An acre and a half of land has been donated to the Boys and Girls Club. The planned facility will be just over 13,000 square feet, and will replace the old city-owned building on 4th Street.
The Douglas Boys and Girls Club program is growing, serving 290 kids in 2018, a 15 percent increase over 2017.
A fundraising campaign is underway for the $7 million dollar project. 112718
The state will pay communities in southern Wyoming a little over $5 million to address the economic impact of two proposed wind energy projects.
The Industrial Siting Council approved wind projects near Medicine Bow and Evanston last month, along with impact funding for nearby towns that will face an influx of workers and additional traffic.
The 100-turbine Ekola Flats wind project proposed near Medicine Bow will be owned and operated by Rocky Mountain Power.
Carbon and Albany counties will receive about $4.8 million during construction of the Ekola Flats project. The companies hope to have the wind farms built before federal tax credits are scheduled to end in 2020.
Converse County will be in line for similar impact funding next year when Rocky Mountain Power begins construction of the 400 megawatt Cedar Springs wind farm 20 miles north of Douglas. 112618
The Industrial Siting Council approved wind projects near Medicine Bow and Evanston last month, along with impact funding for nearby towns that will face an influx of workers and additional traffic.
The 100-turbine Ekola Flats wind project proposed near Medicine Bow will be owned and operated by Rocky Mountain Power.
Carbon and Albany counties will receive about $4.8 million during construction of the Ekola Flats project. The companies hope to have the wind farms built before federal tax credits are scheduled to end in 2020.
Converse County will be in line for similar impact funding next year when Rocky Mountain Power begins construction of the 400 megawatt Cedar Springs wind farm 20 miles north of Douglas. 112618
Cloud Peak Energy could be up for sale.
As the coal company continues to face pressure from financial losses, Cloud Peak Energy has announced it’s reviewing the company’s “strategic alternatives,” which include the possibility of selling the company.
Cloud Peak is one of the largest coal producers in the United States and the only Powder River Basin-only play, operating the Antelope and Cordero Rojo mines in Campbell County and the Spring Creek mine, north of Sheridan, Wyoming, in Montana. The company has about 1300 employees.
While Cloud Peak explores its financial options moving forward, just what moves or transactions it could make remain fluid.
The company's press release also says the board has not set a specific timetable for further action. 111418
As the coal company continues to face pressure from financial losses, Cloud Peak Energy has announced it’s reviewing the company’s “strategic alternatives,” which include the possibility of selling the company.
Cloud Peak is one of the largest coal producers in the United States and the only Powder River Basin-only play, operating the Antelope and Cordero Rojo mines in Campbell County and the Spring Creek mine, north of Sheridan, Wyoming, in Montana. The company has about 1300 employees.
While Cloud Peak explores its financial options moving forward, just what moves or transactions it could make remain fluid.
The company's press release also says the board has not set a specific timetable for further action. 111418
The booming oil business brings another record month for Converse County's checkbook.
County-wide sales tax collections hit another high, reaching $7.56 million in September, the largest volume since March 2015, when sales tax totaled $8.5 million.
The Energy & Mining sector led collections, with $3.7 million during the month. That compares to $2.5 million in sales tax received a year ago in September 2017.
For a complete look at the county's financial information, see the County's transparency portal at conversecountywy.opengov.com. 111418
County-wide sales tax collections hit another high, reaching $7.56 million in September, the largest volume since March 2015, when sales tax totaled $8.5 million.
The Energy & Mining sector led collections, with $3.7 million during the month. That compares to $2.5 million in sales tax received a year ago in September 2017.
For a complete look at the county's financial information, see the County's transparency portal at conversecountywy.opengov.com. 111418
If your family traditions include setting up the Christmas tree right after Thanksgiving, here's your cue.
Permits to cut Christmas trees on the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests are now available at multiple locations in Colorado and Wyoming, including the Douglas Ranger District office.
Each permit costs $10 and allows for the cutting of one tree on National Forest System Lands. There is a limit of five permits per household. Trees must be for personal use, not for resale. The permit must be clearly displayed around the stem of the tree before leaving the cutting area.
There's other regulations about what and where you can cut.
Stop by the Douglas Ranger District Office at 2250 E. Richards St. for permits and more information.
They're open Mon. – Fri., 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.) 111418
Permits to cut Christmas trees on the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests are now available at multiple locations in Colorado and Wyoming, including the Douglas Ranger District office.
Each permit costs $10 and allows for the cutting of one tree on National Forest System Lands. There is a limit of five permits per household. Trees must be for personal use, not for resale. The permit must be clearly displayed around the stem of the tree before leaving the cutting area.
There's other regulations about what and where you can cut.
Stop by the Douglas Ranger District Office at 2250 E. Richards St. for permits and more information.
They're open Mon. – Fri., 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.) 111418
Ballots are counted in Converse County, and the people have made their choices.
In general election polling on Tuesday, Douglas residents have chosen current city councilwoman Rene Kemper to serve as the next mayor of the City of Douglas. Kemper received 1197 votes on Tuesday. Phil Romero received 682 votes.
For city council, two seats were open, and voters gave newcomer Kim Pexton 1121 votes, and incumbant John Bartling 1031. Karl Hertz got 906 votes. Pexton and Bartling will take the two available seats.
A third seat on the council will come open when Kemper begins her job as mayor, and the council will then choose someone to fill the remainder of her term. Speculation has it that either Hertz or Romero could be named to the soon-to-be-open seat, since both showed interest in a job with city government, or the council could name someone else.
In the town of Glenrock, current Councilman Bruce Roumell will move into the mayors chair, as he beat Linda Care-Smith 565 to 264.
Two seats were open on the Glenrock town council, and it's the same situation as in Douglas... a third seat will come open for appointment when Roumell becomes mayor.
The top vote getters for Glenrock Town Council were Annabelle "Boots" Faunce with 612 and Roy Kincaid with 403. Faunce and Kincaid will be seated on the town council. Tiffany Larramendy received 333 votes, and Russ Dalgarn got 209.
Four candidates were running for two open seats on the CCSD 2 school board in Glenrock... the top vote getters were Casey Tillard and Tracy Bopp.
Four people running for two seats as Conservation District rural supervisors... Sharon Lovett and Doug Horner win those slots.
Five people running for three open seats on the Glenrock hospital board... those go to Melody Dugan, Sharon Burns and Linda Care-Smith.
And a strong write in campaign for the newly-created senior citizens board trustees, but non of the write-ins got enough votes to challenge the names on the ballot. The five who'll serve as trustees are Tim Ricker, Billy Canday, Joanne Desmarais, Kathy Patceg and Ron Yates.
Tax issues, both the optional 5th cent sales tax and the lodging tax were passed again and will remain in effect in Converse County.
72 percent voter turnout in Converse County for Tuesday's general election. The county marked 6936 registered voters, and exactly 5000 ballots were filled out and turned in. 110618
Complete Converse County Vote Counts HERE
In general election polling on Tuesday, Douglas residents have chosen current city councilwoman Rene Kemper to serve as the next mayor of the City of Douglas. Kemper received 1197 votes on Tuesday. Phil Romero received 682 votes.
For city council, two seats were open, and voters gave newcomer Kim Pexton 1121 votes, and incumbant John Bartling 1031. Karl Hertz got 906 votes. Pexton and Bartling will take the two available seats.
A third seat on the council will come open when Kemper begins her job as mayor, and the council will then choose someone to fill the remainder of her term. Speculation has it that either Hertz or Romero could be named to the soon-to-be-open seat, since both showed interest in a job with city government, or the council could name someone else.
In the town of Glenrock, current Councilman Bruce Roumell will move into the mayors chair, as he beat Linda Care-Smith 565 to 264.
Two seats were open on the Glenrock town council, and it's the same situation as in Douglas... a third seat will come open for appointment when Roumell becomes mayor.
The top vote getters for Glenrock Town Council were Annabelle "Boots" Faunce with 612 and Roy Kincaid with 403. Faunce and Kincaid will be seated on the town council. Tiffany Larramendy received 333 votes, and Russ Dalgarn got 209.
Four candidates were running for two open seats on the CCSD 2 school board in Glenrock... the top vote getters were Casey Tillard and Tracy Bopp.
Four people running for two seats as Conservation District rural supervisors... Sharon Lovett and Doug Horner win those slots.
Five people running for three open seats on the Glenrock hospital board... those go to Melody Dugan, Sharon Burns and Linda Care-Smith.
And a strong write in campaign for the newly-created senior citizens board trustees, but non of the write-ins got enough votes to challenge the names on the ballot. The five who'll serve as trustees are Tim Ricker, Billy Canday, Joanne Desmarais, Kathy Patceg and Ron Yates.
Tax issues, both the optional 5th cent sales tax and the lodging tax were passed again and will remain in effect in Converse County.
72 percent voter turnout in Converse County for Tuesday's general election. The county marked 6936 registered voters, and exactly 5000 ballots were filled out and turned in. 110618
Complete Converse County Vote Counts HERE
Veterans Day is this Sunday, November 11th.
Converse County School District #1 invites all veterans of our military branches to attend the Veteran’s Day Assembly this Friday, November 9th at 10 AM at the Rec Center gym at Douglas High School.
If you wish to be recognized during the assembly as a veteran of one of the military branches, please contact Douglas High School at 358-2940.
Check-in for veterans will be Friday morning at 9:15 AM in the Rec Center lobby. 110618
Converse County School District #1 invites all veterans of our military branches to attend the Veteran’s Day Assembly this Friday, November 9th at 10 AM at the Rec Center gym at Douglas High School.
If you wish to be recognized during the assembly as a veteran of one of the military branches, please contact Douglas High School at 358-2940.
Check-in for veterans will be Friday morning at 9:15 AM in the Rec Center lobby. 110618
Retired coal miners from the Antelope and Cordero Rojo mines in Campbell County will lose their medical benefits as Gillette-based Cloud Peak Energy continues to find areas to narrow liabilities in a strained coal market.
Current retirees will continue to obtain benefits until the end of the year and then receive a lump sum, according to the company.
Cloud Peak will maintain an unfunded medical plan that covers limited medical needs for some retirees.
The change, which was announced to employees in August and made public this week, slashes $24.7 million from Cloud Peak’s benefits obligation. 110118
Current retirees will continue to obtain benefits until the end of the year and then receive a lump sum, according to the company.
Cloud Peak will maintain an unfunded medical plan that covers limited medical needs for some retirees.
The change, which was announced to employees in August and made public this week, slashes $24.7 million from Cloud Peak’s benefits obligation. 110118
A new economic report says Wyoming enjoyed its largest one-year rebound in sales, lodging and use tax collections in more than a decade this year.
But the report Monday from Wyoming's Economic Analysis Division shows that total tax collections are still 15 percent lower than they were before the 2015 economic downturn.
An improving energy sector fueled by increases in oil and natural gas prices and rising levels of mining activity accounted for most of the tax revenue gains this year.
Though annual sales tax collections increased in all but three counties across the state, the largest jumps were seen in the energy producing counties, especially Converse, Sublette and Niobrara.
Tax collections generated by drilling rose by more than 57 percent this year. 110118
But the report Monday from Wyoming's Economic Analysis Division shows that total tax collections are still 15 percent lower than they were before the 2015 economic downturn.
An improving energy sector fueled by increases in oil and natural gas prices and rising levels of mining activity accounted for most of the tax revenue gains this year.
Though annual sales tax collections increased in all but three counties across the state, the largest jumps were seen in the energy producing counties, especially Converse, Sublette and Niobrara.
Tax collections generated by drilling rose by more than 57 percent this year. 110118
A Douglas doctor is honored as a regional educator.
The University of Washington Department of Medicine has named John Thalken, M.D. as a recipient of the 2017-2018 WWAMI Excellence in Teaching Faculty Award.
Dr. Thalken is one of six recipients that were selected for this award from more than 325 University of Washington clinical faculty members in the Department of Medicine from the states of Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana and Idaho (WWAMI). The recognition is based on medical student nominations and committee selection for “demonstrated enthusiasm and dedication to the teaching of medical students and residents.” Dr. Thalken is an Internist at Memorial Hospital of Converse County in Douglas. 103018
The University of Washington Department of Medicine has named John Thalken, M.D. as a recipient of the 2017-2018 WWAMI Excellence in Teaching Faculty Award.
Dr. Thalken is one of six recipients that were selected for this award from more than 325 University of Washington clinical faculty members in the Department of Medicine from the states of Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana and Idaho (WWAMI). The recognition is based on medical student nominations and committee selection for “demonstrated enthusiasm and dedication to the teaching of medical students and residents.” Dr. Thalken is an Internist at Memorial Hospital of Converse County in Douglas. 103018
Charges have been filed related to a death in Douglas last week.
Douglas police were called out Wednesday night to a residence in the 500 block of South 5th Street, where a dead man was found.
Police Chief Ron Casalenda says formal criminal charges of aggravated assault and one count of 2nd degree murder have been filed against 30-year-old Maxwell B. Schwartz, a recent resident of Douglas. The victim in the case has been identified as 32-year-old Joseph J. Schwartz.
Maxwell Schwartz is being held pending further court appearances.
Casalenda says the case remains under investigation. 102218
Douglas police were called out Wednesday night to a residence in the 500 block of South 5th Street, where a dead man was found.
Police Chief Ron Casalenda says formal criminal charges of aggravated assault and one count of 2nd degree murder have been filed against 30-year-old Maxwell B. Schwartz, a recent resident of Douglas. The victim in the case has been identified as 32-year-old Joseph J. Schwartz.
Maxwell Schwartz is being held pending further court appearances.
Casalenda says the case remains under investigation. 102218
As the energy industry continues to pick up in Converse County, so does heavy truck traffic, and the Douglas City Council is considering changes to regulate that traffic inside the city limits.
The Council tonight will consider changes to city ordinance that will adjust truck routes in the city.
Those changes would remove truck route designations on 4th Street from Cedar south to Richards, and on Center between 4th and the Brownfield Road/Yellowstone Highway intersection. It would also remove the truck route designation from LaBonte Road between Richards and the north end of Irvine Road.
The proposed changes would effectively push heavy truck traffic out of the downtown core and the residential parts of 4th Street south of downtown. Truck routes would be focused on Highway 59 and South Riverbend, Yellowstone to Brownfield, north and south on Brownfield, and east & west on Richards. Truck routes would also be designated on North 4th Street from the Highway 59 bypass to Cedar Street, and Cedar Street between 4th and East Antelope Road.
Council will consider the ordinance changes at tonight's Douglas City Council Meeting, 5:30pm at Douglas City Hall. Those meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live on Vyve Cable Channel 61. 100818
The Council tonight will consider changes to city ordinance that will adjust truck routes in the city.
Those changes would remove truck route designations on 4th Street from Cedar south to Richards, and on Center between 4th and the Brownfield Road/Yellowstone Highway intersection. It would also remove the truck route designation from LaBonte Road between Richards and the north end of Irvine Road.
The proposed changes would effectively push heavy truck traffic out of the downtown core and the residential parts of 4th Street south of downtown. Truck routes would be focused on Highway 59 and South Riverbend, Yellowstone to Brownfield, north and south on Brownfield, and east & west on Richards. Truck routes would also be designated on North 4th Street from the Highway 59 bypass to Cedar Street, and Cedar Street between 4th and East Antelope Road.
Council will consider the ordinance changes at tonight's Douglas City Council Meeting, 5:30pm at Douglas City Hall. Those meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live on Vyve Cable Channel 61. 100818
The Douglas City Council meets tonight for their second meeting of September.
On the agenda, a request to re-plat several lots on the south end of Jefferson Street across from Bartling Park. Owner Andy Henson is asking the city to re-plat 11 lots into three lots. 10 of the lots currently have 25-foot frontages and are currently zone MH-1 for mobile homes. In his request, Henson says he wishes to replat his lots to allow for the construction of an accessory structure to the existing single-family residence on one lot and the creation of two additional lots of sufficient size for additional single-family residences.
Council will also consider a request for a 15-foot easement with Black Hillls Gas Distribution that would run along the railroad tracks from north of West Richards Street south to Robin Lane.
Council meets this evening at 5:30 at Douglas City Hall. Council meetings are open to the public, and are also broadcast live in Douglas on Vyve Cable channel 61. 092418
On the agenda, a request to re-plat several lots on the south end of Jefferson Street across from Bartling Park. Owner Andy Henson is asking the city to re-plat 11 lots into three lots. 10 of the lots currently have 25-foot frontages and are currently zone MH-1 for mobile homes. In his request, Henson says he wishes to replat his lots to allow for the construction of an accessory structure to the existing single-family residence on one lot and the creation of two additional lots of sufficient size for additional single-family residences.
Council will also consider a request for a 15-foot easement with Black Hillls Gas Distribution that would run along the railroad tracks from north of West Richards Street south to Robin Lane.
Council meets this evening at 5:30 at Douglas City Hall. Council meetings are open to the public, and are also broadcast live in Douglas on Vyve Cable channel 61. 092418
Genesis Energy is cashing in its Converse County assets.
The Houston-based company announced Tuesday that they'll sell their Powder River Basin midstream assets in Wyoming for about $300 million to an affiliate of Silver Creek Midstream, headquartered in Irving, Texas.
The assets include the Genesis Powder River Basin Pipeline in Converse County, with connections into southern Campbell County and the Lance Creek field in Niobrara County. Genesis also owned the Pronghorn Terminal rail facility 15 miles north of Douglas, and trucking and crude oil and supply operations here in Douglas.
Genesis plans to use proceeds from the sale to reduce the balance outstanding under its revolving credit facility. 090518
The Houston-based company announced Tuesday that they'll sell their Powder River Basin midstream assets in Wyoming for about $300 million to an affiliate of Silver Creek Midstream, headquartered in Irving, Texas.
The assets include the Genesis Powder River Basin Pipeline in Converse County, with connections into southern Campbell County and the Lance Creek field in Niobrara County. Genesis also owned the Pronghorn Terminal rail facility 15 miles north of Douglas, and trucking and crude oil and supply operations here in Douglas.
Genesis plans to use proceeds from the sale to reduce the balance outstanding under its revolving credit facility. 090518
A Douglas man has died from injuries received in a motorcycle accident.
35 year old David Wright was involved in a single-vehicle motorcycle accident in the 600 block of North Wind River in Douglas on Monday morning. The Douglas Police Department says Wright had severe injuries, was taken to Memorial Hospital of Converse County, and transferred to Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. DPD was notified of Wright's death on Tuesday morning.
The police department says Wright was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. Alcohol is being investigated as a contributing factor to the crash.
The Douglas Police Department and the Wyoming Highway Patrol are investigating the incident. 090518
35 year old David Wright was involved in a single-vehicle motorcycle accident in the 600 block of North Wind River in Douglas on Monday morning. The Douglas Police Department says Wright had severe injuries, was taken to Memorial Hospital of Converse County, and transferred to Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. DPD was notified of Wright's death on Tuesday morning.
The police department says Wright was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. Alcohol is being investigated as a contributing factor to the crash.
The Douglas Police Department and the Wyoming Highway Patrol are investigating the incident. 090518
A Douglas woman has been named to the Wyoming Supreme Court.
Governor Matt Mead has appointed Kari Jo Gray to the state's highest Court.
A native of Lusk and long-time Douglas resident, Gray has served as Governor Mead’s Chief of Staff since the Governor first took office in January 2011.
Previously, in partnership with Frank D. Peasley, she was in private practice for twelve years in Douglas.
Under Governor Geringer, Gray served as Director of the Wyoming Department of Family Services from November 1999-November 2000.
She has a law degree from the University of Wyoming.
Gray replaces Justice E. James Burke who has served on the Court since 2005 and retires effective October 8, 2018. 090518
Governor Matt Mead has appointed Kari Jo Gray to the state's highest Court.
A native of Lusk and long-time Douglas resident, Gray has served as Governor Mead’s Chief of Staff since the Governor first took office in January 2011.
Previously, in partnership with Frank D. Peasley, she was in private practice for twelve years in Douglas.
Under Governor Geringer, Gray served as Director of the Wyoming Department of Family Services from November 1999-November 2000.
She has a law degree from the University of Wyoming.
Gray replaces Justice E. James Burke who has served on the Court since 2005 and retires effective October 8, 2018. 090518
Firefighters burned out areas in advance of the Britania Fire Sunday in Platte and Albany counties.
Most recent numbers, the fire has burned about 32,089 acres since it started a week ago Sunday. Containment now stands at 77 percent.
Firefighters on Sunday successfully completed the firing operations on the southwestern and western flanks of the fire. Crews used indirect firelines and existing barriers, like the Palmer Canyon Road, to secure the firing operation. The burnout operation removed fuels ahead of the fire as it advanced south.
On Monday, crews focused on holding and improving the established firelines. Crews continued mopping up the current fire perimeter on the west and southwest sides to improve containment lines.
494 firefighters are now on the line, and a few firefighters have been released to go work other fires in the West. 090418
Most recent numbers, the fire has burned about 32,089 acres since it started a week ago Sunday. Containment now stands at 77 percent.
Firefighters on Sunday successfully completed the firing operations on the southwestern and western flanks of the fire. Crews used indirect firelines and existing barriers, like the Palmer Canyon Road, to secure the firing operation. The burnout operation removed fuels ahead of the fire as it advanced south.
On Monday, crews focused on holding and improving the established firelines. Crews continued mopping up the current fire perimeter on the west and southwest sides to improve containment lines.
494 firefighters are now on the line, and a few firefighters have been released to go work other fires in the West. 090418
The Britania Fire may affect hunters this fall... that's the word from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
Wheatland Wildlife Biologist Martin Hicks said the fire is burning in a popular area for hunters, including elk hunt area 7, deer hunt area 64 and antelope hunt area 103.
Hicks said quite a few people hunt in this area and they want to give these hunters a heads-up so that they have time to find other areas to scout and hunt for their game.
Hicks said wildlife are usually quick to escape the flames, but the fire will displace some animals. He said larger big game species that are more transient will move through the burned area and not stop until forage has returned in future years and other species like birds and small game will return in time too. 090418
Wheatland Wildlife Biologist Martin Hicks said the fire is burning in a popular area for hunters, including elk hunt area 7, deer hunt area 64 and antelope hunt area 103.
Hicks said quite a few people hunt in this area and they want to give these hunters a heads-up so that they have time to find other areas to scout and hunt for their game.
Hicks said wildlife are usually quick to escape the flames, but the fire will displace some animals. He said larger big game species that are more transient will move through the burned area and not stop until forage has returned in future years and other species like birds and small game will return in time too. 090418
Primary Election 2018, with all 19 Converse County Precincts tallied, here's the unofficial results...
Non-partisan town and city races...
For Mayor of the City of Douglas, Rene Kemper received 691 votes, Phil Romero got 368, and former councilman Doug Olson got 308... Kemper and Romero will advance to the generqal election.
Douglas City Council, Kim Pexton received 922 votes, and incumbent John Bartling got 878... two seats open this fall, and both will advance to the general.
Mayor of the Town of Glenrock, current councilman Bruce Roumell got 368 votes, Linda Care-Smith got 171, and write-ins received 110 votes. Roumell and Care-Smith will move on to the general election.
Glenrock Town Council, Anna Belle "Boots" Faunce was the top vote getter with 436, Roy Kincade got 276, Tiffany Larramendy got 252, Russ Dalgarn got 160, and Dennis Flynn received 86. Two seats are open, so Faunce, Kincade, Larramendy and Dalgarn will advance to the general election.
The proposed 2-mill tax levy to fund a Converse County Senior Citizens district passed by a majority of voters, 1779 to 1609.
Converse County races, for county commissioner, Tony Lehner received 2195 votes, Robert Short got 2056, Jim Willox received 1860, and Darek Joppru got 1301... Lehner, Short and Willox will advance to the general election in November.
County coroner, Ross Gorman got 2482, Russ Dalgarn got 772, Gorman advances to the general.
In the race for Converse County Clerk, Lucile Taylor gets 2212, challenger Michelle Maines 1026. Taylor will appear on the General Election ballot.
State races, 30 percent of Converse County voters supported Harriet Hageman for governor... 49 percent gave the nod to Kristi Racines for state auditor, 49 percent went with Curt Meier for state treasurer, and one Senate District is in play, that's SD 23, covering parts of Converse and Campbell Counties. In Converse County, 346 votes were cast for incumbent Jeff Wasserburger, and 227 for Jeff Raney. Both are from Campbell County, and Campbell County's numbers will decide that election.
At the Federal level, 67 percent of Converse County's Republicans supported Senator John Barrasso, and 67 percent went with Liz Cheney to keep her seat in the House of Representatives.
3723 votes were cast in Converse County in Tuesday's Primary election, out of 6757 registered voters... a 55 percent turnout.
The county canvassing board meets Thursday morning to certify the election results and forward them to the Secretary of State.
Complete Converse County primary election results are here - https://www.conversecounty.org/428/2018-Election-Results 082118
Non-partisan town and city races...
For Mayor of the City of Douglas, Rene Kemper received 691 votes, Phil Romero got 368, and former councilman Doug Olson got 308... Kemper and Romero will advance to the generqal election.
Douglas City Council, Kim Pexton received 922 votes, and incumbent John Bartling got 878... two seats open this fall, and both will advance to the general.
Mayor of the Town of Glenrock, current councilman Bruce Roumell got 368 votes, Linda Care-Smith got 171, and write-ins received 110 votes. Roumell and Care-Smith will move on to the general election.
Glenrock Town Council, Anna Belle "Boots" Faunce was the top vote getter with 436, Roy Kincade got 276, Tiffany Larramendy got 252, Russ Dalgarn got 160, and Dennis Flynn received 86. Two seats are open, so Faunce, Kincade, Larramendy and Dalgarn will advance to the general election.
The proposed 2-mill tax levy to fund a Converse County Senior Citizens district passed by a majority of voters, 1779 to 1609.
Converse County races, for county commissioner, Tony Lehner received 2195 votes, Robert Short got 2056, Jim Willox received 1860, and Darek Joppru got 1301... Lehner, Short and Willox will advance to the general election in November.
County coroner, Ross Gorman got 2482, Russ Dalgarn got 772, Gorman advances to the general.
In the race for Converse County Clerk, Lucile Taylor gets 2212, challenger Michelle Maines 1026. Taylor will appear on the General Election ballot.
State races, 30 percent of Converse County voters supported Harriet Hageman for governor... 49 percent gave the nod to Kristi Racines for state auditor, 49 percent went with Curt Meier for state treasurer, and one Senate District is in play, that's SD 23, covering parts of Converse and Campbell Counties. In Converse County, 346 votes were cast for incumbent Jeff Wasserburger, and 227 for Jeff Raney. Both are from Campbell County, and Campbell County's numbers will decide that election.
At the Federal level, 67 percent of Converse County's Republicans supported Senator John Barrasso, and 67 percent went with Liz Cheney to keep her seat in the House of Representatives.
3723 votes were cast in Converse County in Tuesday's Primary election, out of 6757 registered voters... a 55 percent turnout.
The county canvassing board meets Thursday morning to certify the election results and forward them to the Secretary of State.
Complete Converse County primary election results are here - https://www.conversecounty.org/428/2018-Election-Results 082118
The Wyoming Board of Agriculture meet during the Wyoming State Fair in Douglas next week.
On the agenda, the Board will hear an update on the Wyoming Department of Agriculture, an update on the Wyoming Livestock Board, review and approve new public records rules, address Conservation District appointments/resignations, and hear updates on the Rangeland Health Assessment Program. The Board will also hear water quality program reports and extension requests, discuss water quality applications, hear industry partner reports, hear Wyoming Department of Agriculture intern presentations, and any other business as needed.
There will be a chance for public comment at the end of the meeting and the public is welcome to attend.
The Wyoming Board of Agriculture will meet on Friday, August 17th, from 9 am til 1 pm, in the McKibben Cafeteria on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds. 081018
On the agenda, the Board will hear an update on the Wyoming Department of Agriculture, an update on the Wyoming Livestock Board, review and approve new public records rules, address Conservation District appointments/resignations, and hear updates on the Rangeland Health Assessment Program. The Board will also hear water quality program reports and extension requests, discuss water quality applications, hear industry partner reports, hear Wyoming Department of Agriculture intern presentations, and any other business as needed.
There will be a chance for public comment at the end of the meeting and the public is welcome to attend.
The Wyoming Board of Agriculture will meet on Friday, August 17th, from 9 am til 1 pm, in the McKibben Cafeteria on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds. 081018
More information's been released on a high speed chase last Friday night that began north of Casper and ended in Converse County.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol say that the chase began at about 11:00 pm, Friday night, after troopers observed a vehicle traveling southbound on I-25, near mile post 197, doing about 105 mph in an 80 mph zone.
Natrona County deputies followed and attempted to stop the car as it sped through Casper on the interstate.
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers took up the pursuit again east of Casper and performed a tactical vehicle intervention just west of the Natural Bridge exit near milepost 153, which caused the vehicle to spin out and come to a stop.
20-year-old Michael Hernandez was arrested and faces multiple charges, including Attempt to Elude, Reckless Driving, Larceny, Grand Larceny, Controlled Substance Possession, and Driving While Under the Influence.
WHP officials say that two stolen firearms were recovered. The car had been reported stolen out of the state of Montana. 080718
The Wyoming Highway Patrol say that the chase began at about 11:00 pm, Friday night, after troopers observed a vehicle traveling southbound on I-25, near mile post 197, doing about 105 mph in an 80 mph zone.
Natrona County deputies followed and attempted to stop the car as it sped through Casper on the interstate.
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers took up the pursuit again east of Casper and performed a tactical vehicle intervention just west of the Natural Bridge exit near milepost 153, which caused the vehicle to spin out and come to a stop.
20-year-old Michael Hernandez was arrested and faces multiple charges, including Attempt to Elude, Reckless Driving, Larceny, Grand Larceny, Controlled Substance Possession, and Driving While Under the Influence.
WHP officials say that two stolen firearms were recovered. The car had been reported stolen out of the state of Montana. 080718
Pony Express riders and Conestoga wagons once traveled the trails through eastern Wyoming... solar-powered cars had their day Monday as the American Solar Challenge 2018 journeyed from Gering to Casper.
21 teams are travelling the Oregon Trail from Omaha, Nebraska, to Bend, Oregon in single- and multi-occupant vehicles that are powered only by the sun.
You may have seen these odd-looking vehicles on Monday... they left Gering, Nebraska, traveled to Torrington, Lingle, up to Lusk, across to Orin Junction, and into Douglas on Richards to Riverbend, and out Highway 93 past Ft Fetterman. On to Top of the World, then in Highway 95 to Rolling Hills and Glenrock, then into Casper on the old Glenrock Highway.
The solar rally cars will travel to Lander on Tuesday, then on across Idaho and Oregon, arriving in Bend, Oregon on Sunday, July 22nd.
More information at americansolarchallenge.org. 071618
21 teams are travelling the Oregon Trail from Omaha, Nebraska, to Bend, Oregon in single- and multi-occupant vehicles that are powered only by the sun.
You may have seen these odd-looking vehicles on Monday... they left Gering, Nebraska, traveled to Torrington, Lingle, up to Lusk, across to Orin Junction, and into Douglas on Richards to Riverbend, and out Highway 93 past Ft Fetterman. On to Top of the World, then in Highway 95 to Rolling Hills and Glenrock, then into Casper on the old Glenrock Highway.
The solar rally cars will travel to Lander on Tuesday, then on across Idaho and Oregon, arriving in Bend, Oregon on Sunday, July 22nd.
More information at americansolarchallenge.org. 071618
The Converse County School District #1 Board of Trustees approved a nearly $30 million dollar general fund budget at their regular meeting this week.
This year's budget for Douglas schools is nearly $700,000 less that last year's.
To cover the difference, the board approved using reserves for a little over $450,000 of the shortfall. Other adjustments and reductions to line items across the schools and departments covered the additional loss in revenue.
There were no staffing reductions made this year as a result of reduced funding because the district, in anticipation of these cuts, was proactive in making cuts last year. The reductions in funding are due to declining student enrollment and cuts to K-12 education by the state legislature. 071618
This year's budget for Douglas schools is nearly $700,000 less that last year's.
To cover the difference, the board approved using reserves for a little over $450,000 of the shortfall. Other adjustments and reductions to line items across the schools and departments covered the additional loss in revenue.
There were no staffing reductions made this year as a result of reduced funding because the district, in anticipation of these cuts, was proactive in making cuts last year. The reductions in funding are due to declining student enrollment and cuts to K-12 education by the state legislature. 071618
