KKTY News...
KKTY Noon News Fri 4/9/21
They were Freezin’ for a Reason Wednesday afternoon at Douglas High School.
The DOUGLAS Jackalope Jump earned $4,919.00 for Special Olympics of Wyoming.
Wednesday’s Jackalope Jump saw jumpers splash in the spray from the Douglas Volunteer Fire Department.
Among the Jumpers, Teri Skeen raised the most money by an individual... Dalton Ferris raised the most money by an athlete... Ferris also had best costume. The Converse County Bank team had the largest team and raised the most money by a team.
Money raised helps support Special Olympics programs for more than 1800 athletes in 52 programs across Wyoming. 040121
The DOUGLAS Jackalope Jump earned $4,919.00 for Special Olympics of Wyoming.
Wednesday’s Jackalope Jump saw jumpers splash in the spray from the Douglas Volunteer Fire Department.
Among the Jumpers, Teri Skeen raised the most money by an individual... Dalton Ferris raised the most money by an athlete... Ferris also had best costume. The Converse County Bank team had the largest team and raised the most money by a team.
Money raised helps support Special Olympics programs for more than 1800 athletes in 52 programs across Wyoming. 040121
Masks will disappear at Glenrock schools.
Converse County School District #2 has requested and has been approved for an exception to public health requirements pertaining to K-12 schools.
Beginning Monday, March 29th, students, staff, and visitors at Glenrock schools will NO longer be required to wear masks while on school district property or transportation. Mask wearing will become optional.
District officials say the wearing of masks has become a burden for everyone, and they are excited to eliminate this requirement. 032921
Converse County School District #2 has requested and has been approved for an exception to public health requirements pertaining to K-12 schools.
Beginning Monday, March 29th, students, staff, and visitors at Glenrock schools will NO longer be required to wear masks while on school district property or transportation. Mask wearing will become optional.
District officials say the wearing of masks has become a burden for everyone, and they are excited to eliminate this requirement. 032921
A go-ahead for a city liquor license at a new Douglas restaurant.
At Monday night's Council meeting, the Douglas City Council approved an application for a New Bar & Grill Liquor License to Restaurant Central LLC DBA Ranahan Steakhouse.
The new steakhouse is currently under construction at the corner of South Riverbend and Muirfield Court.
Ranahan has a projected opening date of June 28th. 032321
At Monday night's Council meeting, the Douglas City Council approved an application for a New Bar & Grill Liquor License to Restaurant Central LLC DBA Ranahan Steakhouse.
The new steakhouse is currently under construction at the corner of South Riverbend and Muirfield Court.
Ranahan has a projected opening date of June 28th. 032321
The Douglas City Council has approved a replat to allow larger lots on the north end of the Meadowlark Trails Subdivision north of McDonalds along the North Platte River.
Changes create 33 lots out of the currently-platted 75 lots, and would rezone from R-1 single family to RE Residential Estates.
Developers say the larger lots will create a quiet, single-family neighborhood with abundant open spaces.
Council also approved a change of zoning on a couple of city-owned cul-de-sacs off South Wind River Drive from R-1 single family to R-3 limited mixed residential.
The lots in question back up against Lone Tree mobile home park, and will create a buffer zone for construction of apartments or townhouses between the mobile home park to the west and the single family neighborhood to the east. 032321
Changes create 33 lots out of the currently-platted 75 lots, and would rezone from R-1 single family to RE Residential Estates.
Developers say the larger lots will create a quiet, single-family neighborhood with abundant open spaces.
Council also approved a change of zoning on a couple of city-owned cul-de-sacs off South Wind River Drive from R-1 single family to R-3 limited mixed residential.
The lots in question back up against Lone Tree mobile home park, and will create a buffer zone for construction of apartments or townhouses between the mobile home park to the west and the single family neighborhood to the east. 032321
No utility rate hike yet for Douglas residents.
Proposed rate increases were on the agenda for consideration at Monday night's Douglas City Council meeting.
But Councilman John Bartling made the motion to remove those items from the agenda...
Proposed rate increases were on the agenda for consideration at Monday night's Douglas City Council meeting.
But Councilman John Bartling made the motion to remove those items from the agenda...
City Administrator Jonathan Teichert told KKTY News last month that it's been almost four years since the City has adjusted utility rates...
The Council commissioned a rate analysis in 2018... by the time it was completed, the bottom dropped out of the oil market, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and no adjustments were made.
City Council is doing their homework to figure out the best way to catch up and put those Enterprise accounts back in the black. 030821
City Council is doing their homework to figure out the best way to catch up and put those Enterprise accounts back in the black. 030821
Governor Mark Gordon announced this morning that Wyoming will remove its statewide mask requirement and allow bars, restaurants, theaters and gyms to resume normal operations on March 16.
The decision reflects the state’s continually improving health metrics and is consistent with the Governor’s approach of balancing public health with protecting livelihoods.
Wyoming has seen a declining number of active COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, and has seen significant success rolling out the vaccine, with the state’s most vulnerable residents having access now to the vaccine.
The Governor continues to encourage Wyomingites to wear face coverings in indoor public spaces and to follow the best practices adopted by any business they visit to slow the spread of the virus.
The face covering protocol will remain in place in K-12 schools as a safety measure to ensure that classroom learning and all student activities can continue to occur safely. 030821
The decision reflects the state’s continually improving health metrics and is consistent with the Governor’s approach of balancing public health with protecting livelihoods.
Wyoming has seen a declining number of active COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, and has seen significant success rolling out the vaccine, with the state’s most vulnerable residents having access now to the vaccine.
The Governor continues to encourage Wyomingites to wear face coverings in indoor public spaces and to follow the best practices adopted by any business they visit to slow the spread of the virus.
The face covering protocol will remain in place in K-12 schools as a safety measure to ensure that classroom learning and all student activities can continue to occur safely. 030821
The Douglas City Council has given a thumbs-up to all of the city's liquor-licencees.
At Monday night's meeting, the Council approved for renewal all 22 liquor licenses before them. 21 of the applications had no issues at all... one had delinquent sales taxes... those were immediately paid up, and all of the licences were approved without restriction.
City of Douglas liquor licenses are good for one year, in this case from April 1st, 2021 to March 31st, 2022.
There are currently no new retail liquor licenses available; one remaining Bar & Grill liquor license is currently in the application process. 022421
At Monday night's meeting, the Council approved for renewal all 22 liquor licenses before them. 21 of the applications had no issues at all... one had delinquent sales taxes... those were immediately paid up, and all of the licences were approved without restriction.
City of Douglas liquor licenses are good for one year, in this case from April 1st, 2021 to March 31st, 2022.
There are currently no new retail liquor licenses available; one remaining Bar & Grill liquor license is currently in the application process. 022421
Another Converse County resident has died from the coronavirus.
An older adult Converse County gentleman died earlier this month. He was a resident of a local long-term care facility; it’s unclear whether he had health conditions recognized as putting patients at higher risk of serious illness related to COVID-19.
This is Converse County’s 17th recorded Covid 19 death.
The Converse County death was one of nine new cases reported Tuesday by the Wyoming Department of Health.
With the latest deaths, there have now been 671 coronavirus-related deaths in Wyoming since the pandemic arrived here in March. 022421
An older adult Converse County gentleman died earlier this month. He was a resident of a local long-term care facility; it’s unclear whether he had health conditions recognized as putting patients at higher risk of serious illness related to COVID-19.
This is Converse County’s 17th recorded Covid 19 death.
The Converse County death was one of nine new cases reported Tuesday by the Wyoming Department of Health.
With the latest deaths, there have now been 671 coronavirus-related deaths in Wyoming since the pandemic arrived here in March. 022421
The Wyoming State Legislature has appropriated $4.3 million for permitting, feasibility level design, and cost estimates to replace the aging La Prele Dam in Converse County.
The 137-foot high, 325-foot long dam on La Prele Creek, south of Natural Bridge, was built in 1909.
LaPrele Dam held 20,000 acre-feet of water for an irrigation district before operators restricted storage because of safety worries.
The funds are a part of Senate File 37, which authorizes planning for water development in the state.
It also authorizes a study of the Town of Wheatland's water infrastructure. 021021
The 137-foot high, 325-foot long dam on La Prele Creek, south of Natural Bridge, was built in 1909.
LaPrele Dam held 20,000 acre-feet of water for an irrigation district before operators restricted storage because of safety worries.
The funds are a part of Senate File 37, which authorizes planning for water development in the state.
It also authorizes a study of the Town of Wheatland's water infrastructure. 021021
Wind farm development north of Douglas helped shore up Converse County's sales and use tax collections last year.
In a year-over year comparason, January 2021 to January 2020, Converse County showed a modest .3% increase. Converse County would likely have been down 70% without wind development activity.
January’s Wyoming Insight report, from Wyoming’s Economic Analysis Division released Monday tracks energy index and business indicators in the state.
It shows an overall improvement from December, with wind farm activity boosting collections and crude oil prices having its best showing in 11 months.
The report confirms that mining has been by far the hardest hit sector of the state’s economy in the past year.
January sales & use tax collections from the mining sector were down $5.6 million (-54.0%) compared to January last year. The industry also lost 5,900 jobs year-over-year in January. 021021
In a year-over year comparason, January 2021 to January 2020, Converse County showed a modest .3% increase. Converse County would likely have been down 70% without wind development activity.
January’s Wyoming Insight report, from Wyoming’s Economic Analysis Division released Monday tracks energy index and business indicators in the state.
It shows an overall improvement from December, with wind farm activity boosting collections and crude oil prices having its best showing in 11 months.
The report confirms that mining has been by far the hardest hit sector of the state’s economy in the past year.
January sales & use tax collections from the mining sector were down $5.6 million (-54.0%) compared to January last year. The industry also lost 5,900 jobs year-over-year in January. 021021
A 15th recorded Covid 19 death has been reported in Converse County.
An older adult Converse County woman died earlier this month. She was hospitalized and had health conditions recognized as putting patients at higher risk of serious illness related to COVID-19.
The Wyoming Department of Health announced Tuesday that another 23 Wyoming residents have died after contracting COVID-19.
With the latest deaths, there have now been 647 coronavirus-caused deaths in Wyoming since the pandemic arrived here in March. 021021
An older adult Converse County woman died earlier this month. She was hospitalized and had health conditions recognized as putting patients at higher risk of serious illness related to COVID-19.
The Wyoming Department of Health announced Tuesday that another 23 Wyoming residents have died after contracting COVID-19.
With the latest deaths, there have now been 647 coronavirus-caused deaths in Wyoming since the pandemic arrived here in March. 021021
With a Democratic majority in Washington DC, Wyoming's Republican representatives have to find legislators across the aisle to help craft policy.
Wyoming's US Senator John Barrasso told KKTY News last week that there are like-minded Democrats to work with...
Wyoming's US Senator John Barrasso told KKTY News last week that there are like-minded Democrats to work with...
Barasso said you can work across party lines on specific issues that affect your state. 020921
A new report says Wyoming played a significant part in helping the country increase its wind energy production by nearly doubling capacity in 2020.
Wyoming installed 1,123 megawatts of wind power, ranking second nationwide behind Texas in new wind capacity added in last year’s fourth quarter.
About half of that new generation capacity comes from the new Cedar Springs wind farm along the Energy Highway north of Douglas.
A quarterly report compiled by the American Clean Power Association says the U.S. installed 16,913 megawatts of new wind power capacity last year, which was an 85% increase compared to 2019.
A significant portion of the development was led by Wyoming’s largest utility, Rocky Mountain Power. 020921
Wyoming installed 1,123 megawatts of wind power, ranking second nationwide behind Texas in new wind capacity added in last year’s fourth quarter.
About half of that new generation capacity comes from the new Cedar Springs wind farm along the Energy Highway north of Douglas.
A quarterly report compiled by the American Clean Power Association says the U.S. installed 16,913 megawatts of new wind power capacity last year, which was an 85% increase compared to 2019.
A significant portion of the development was led by Wyoming’s largest utility, Rocky Mountain Power. 020921
State budget cut continue to take their toll on higher education.
Casper College announced Friday that they'll eliminate 15 positions from their payroll.
Seven of the positions to be eliminated are already either vacant or will be cut through attrition after expected retirements.
Of the eight people being laid off at the college, five are staff and three are faculty members.
Casper College planned to cut 10% of its budget last summer at the request of Gov. Mark Gordon, in an effort to decrease a massive budget shortfall in the state’s general fund. 020821
Casper College announced Friday that they'll eliminate 15 positions from their payroll.
Seven of the positions to be eliminated are already either vacant or will be cut through attrition after expected retirements.
Of the eight people being laid off at the college, five are staff and three are faculty members.
Casper College planned to cut 10% of its budget last summer at the request of Gov. Mark Gordon, in an effort to decrease a massive budget shortfall in the state’s general fund. 020821
Douglas High School musicians got top marks in Casper this week.
The Douglas High School Bearcat Big Band and Hamilton Boulevard Jazz choir competed at the Kinser Jazz Festival at Casper College this week and both groups brought back superior ratings.
Two musicians in the band, Morgan Mullider and Craig Theel, won outstanding solo awards.
And the choir recieved a perfect score from one of their two judges.
Choir director Randy Gifford says he was not surprised at the superior rating, because the choir has worked hard and is a talented group.
He says he's very proud of all of them. 020421
The Douglas High School Bearcat Big Band and Hamilton Boulevard Jazz choir competed at the Kinser Jazz Festival at Casper College this week and both groups brought back superior ratings.
Two musicians in the band, Morgan Mullider and Craig Theel, won outstanding solo awards.
And the choir recieved a perfect score from one of their two judges.
Choir director Randy Gifford says he was not surprised at the superior rating, because the choir has worked hard and is a talented group.
He says he's very proud of all of them. 020421
A California man was arrested in Glenrock Tuesday after a high speed chase.
Matthew Ruiz, of Santa Maria, California faces charges for driving under the influence, driving while under suspension, fleeing to elude, open container and reckless driving.
A Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper stopped Ruiz on Interstate 25 just east of Casper while he was driving 110 miles per hour. The Trooper said Ruiz seemed impaired and he refused to present documents to the trooper.
Ruiz then fled in his car, exited onto Hat Six Road then headed east on US 20-26, where he hit speeds of 150 miles per hour.
The trooper fell out of pursuit before reaching Glenrock in the interest of public safety. The Converse County Sheriff and Glenrock police found his car, empty, on the side of a road in Glenrock.
Officers later found Ruiz hiding under a bush, and he was taken into custody. 012721
Matthew Ruiz, of Santa Maria, California faces charges for driving under the influence, driving while under suspension, fleeing to elude, open container and reckless driving.
A Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper stopped Ruiz on Interstate 25 just east of Casper while he was driving 110 miles per hour. The Trooper said Ruiz seemed impaired and he refused to present documents to the trooper.
Ruiz then fled in his car, exited onto Hat Six Road then headed east on US 20-26, where he hit speeds of 150 miles per hour.
The trooper fell out of pursuit before reaching Glenrock in the interest of public safety. The Converse County Sheriff and Glenrock police found his car, empty, on the side of a road in Glenrock.
Officers later found Ruiz hiding under a bush, and he was taken into custody. 012721
Law enforcement investigating a bomb threat at Casper College Tuesday found no evidence of threat on campus.
College officials said a college employee received an email saying there was a propane bomb on campus in Liesinger Hall. More than a dozen officers searched the property for more than an hour Tuesday, but found nothing.
An investigation into the source of the email that sent the threat is ongoing. Tuesday’s statement said officers believe the threat poses no danger to members of the public. 012721
College officials said a college employee received an email saying there was a propane bomb on campus in Liesinger Hall. More than a dozen officers searched the property for more than an hour Tuesday, but found nothing.
An investigation into the source of the email that sent the threat is ongoing. Tuesday’s statement said officers believe the threat poses no danger to members of the public. 012721
Converse County Public Health will no longer be utilizing a contact list for the COVID-19 vaccinations.
Instead, Public Health is moving to a First Come First Serve system. The remaining people on our previous list, will be contacted and scheduled in our clinic.
Converse County Public Health continues to receive limited amounts of vaccine and will be hosting a series drive thru events in Douglas and Glenrock. Those events will be specific to a tier level, and will be first come first serve.
The current Tier level that is being vaccinated for Converse County is: 1b.
This Tier includes critical populations of:
1. Persons 70 years of age or older, and
2. Frontline essential workers who must interact with the public and are unable to consistently
physically distance from others. 012121
Instead, Public Health is moving to a First Come First Serve system. The remaining people on our previous list, will be contacted and scheduled in our clinic.
Converse County Public Health continues to receive limited amounts of vaccine and will be hosting a series drive thru events in Douglas and Glenrock. Those events will be specific to a tier level, and will be first come first serve.
The current Tier level that is being vaccinated for Converse County is: 1b.
This Tier includes critical populations of:
1. Persons 70 years of age or older, and
2. Frontline essential workers who must interact with the public and are unable to consistently
physically distance from others. 012121
The Douglas Planning and Zoning Commission meets this evening.
Items on the agenda include an application from Reliant Federal Credit union for a conditional use permit to install an electronic message display sign at their office at 239 South 4th Street in Douglas;
an application from the Converse County Commissioners for a conditional use permit to allow interim housing for temporary occupants at 1105 S 5th Street in Douglas;
and an application from the Converse County Commissioners for a Type B development for an expansion of the Converse County Joint Justice Center at 1201 Mesa Drive. This expansion would allow construction of circuit and district courtrooms, chambers, related offices, and to expand the detention center.
Planning and Zoning meets this evening at 5:30 at in the Council Chambers at Douglas City Hall. The meeting is open to the public, and will be broadcast live on Vyve Cable Channel 61. 011821
Items on the agenda include an application from Reliant Federal Credit union for a conditional use permit to install an electronic message display sign at their office at 239 South 4th Street in Douglas;
an application from the Converse County Commissioners for a conditional use permit to allow interim housing for temporary occupants at 1105 S 5th Street in Douglas;
and an application from the Converse County Commissioners for a Type B development for an expansion of the Converse County Joint Justice Center at 1201 Mesa Drive. This expansion would allow construction of circuit and district courtrooms, chambers, related offices, and to expand the detention center.
Planning and Zoning meets this evening at 5:30 at in the Council Chambers at Douglas City Hall. The meeting is open to the public, and will be broadcast live on Vyve Cable Channel 61. 011821
Memorial Hospital of Converse County is asking vaccine patients to get their shots in their county of residence.
An influx of people from outside Converse County forced the hospital to shut down their clinic for a short period of time Thursday afternoon.
Each county is allocated a number of vaccine shots, and MHCC staff says that our COVID-19 vaccine clinic is only for residents of Converse County.
In a press release Thursday, the hospital says effective Friday, January 15th, proof of residency will be required to receive a vaccine at our clinic location.
The hospital says out-of-county residents will be referred back to their county health department for the vaccine dose.
Proof of residency can be a Driver's License, Photo ID, or similar identification that shows the vaccine recipient's name, photo and current physical address. 011421
An influx of people from outside Converse County forced the hospital to shut down their clinic for a short period of time Thursday afternoon.
Each county is allocated a number of vaccine shots, and MHCC staff says that our COVID-19 vaccine clinic is only for residents of Converse County.
In a press release Thursday, the hospital says effective Friday, January 15th, proof of residency will be required to receive a vaccine at our clinic location.
The hospital says out-of-county residents will be referred back to their county health department for the vaccine dose.
Proof of residency can be a Driver's License, Photo ID, or similar identification that shows the vaccine recipient's name, photo and current physical address. 011421
Kids in Glenrock will benefit from a generous gift given to the Boys & Girls Club of Glenrock by Jackson Hole financier Foster Friess. Mr. Friess and his wife Lynnette donated $100,000.00 to the Glenrock Club at the request of Dr. Joseph McGinley. The gift was announced at a small social gathering to celebrate Brighter Futures for youth and the Boys & Girls Club of Glenrock.
The funds will go toward development of the Club and supporting programming based around three focus areas of academic success, good character & citizenship, and healthy lifestyles.
The Glenrock Boys & Girls Club is operated under the umbrella of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming. It serves 200 kids each year after school and during out of school days, including Fridays during the school year and daily for summer camp. It has been operating in Glenrock since 2000. 011421
The funds will go toward development of the Club and supporting programming based around three focus areas of academic success, good character & citizenship, and healthy lifestyles.
The Glenrock Boys & Girls Club is operated under the umbrella of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming. It serves 200 kids each year after school and during out of school days, including Fridays during the school year and daily for summer camp. It has been operating in Glenrock since 2000. 011421
Wyoming's US Representative Liz Cheney said Tuesday she will vote to impeach President Donald Trump following last week's attack at the U.S. Capitol by supporters of the president.
In a statement, Cheney said the president incited the mob that attacked the Capitol on Wednesday. She said afterward, he could have "immediately and forcefully intervened to stop the violence," but didn't.
Cheney said in her statement that "There has never been a greater betrayal by a President of the United States of his office and his oath to the Constitution".
Cheney becomes the highest-profile Republican to announce that she would support impeachment. She is the third-ranking Republican in the House. 011221
In a statement, Cheney said the president incited the mob that attacked the Capitol on Wednesday. She said afterward, he could have "immediately and forcefully intervened to stop the violence," but didn't.
Cheney said in her statement that "There has never been a greater betrayal by a President of the United States of his office and his oath to the Constitution".
Cheney becomes the highest-profile Republican to announce that she would support impeachment. She is the third-ranking Republican in the House. 011221
A proposed West-Coast coal-shipping terminal on the Columbia River at Longview, Washington, may be headed for limbo.
Lighthouse Resources has been working to develop the terminal that would ship Powder Basin coal to Far Eastern markets. The project has been stalled by environmentalists and the Washington state government, among others.
But Lighthouse Resources filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy in December.
It hoped to find a new buyer for the project, but over the past two months no bidder materialized.
\
Lighthouse Resources petitioned the court on Friday to reject its land lease in Washington, and the future of the project, and new markets for Wyoming coal, are again in doubt. 011221
Lighthouse Resources has been working to develop the terminal that would ship Powder Basin coal to Far Eastern markets. The project has been stalled by environmentalists and the Washington state government, among others.
But Lighthouse Resources filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy in December.
It hoped to find a new buyer for the project, but over the past two months no bidder materialized.
\
Lighthouse Resources petitioned the court on Friday to reject its land lease in Washington, and the future of the project, and new markets for Wyoming coal, are again in doubt. 011221
A local legislator takes a leadership position in Cheyenne.
The Wyoming State Legislature convened their 2021 General Session on Tuesday, Jan. 12.
Rep. Eric Barlow was elected new speaker of the House. Barlow represents House District 03, which is located in portions of Campbell and Converse County.
Sen. Dan Dockstader was elected new president of the Senate. Dockstader represents Senate District 16, which covers portions of Lincoln, Sublette and Teton County.
Both the Senate and House of Representatives elected new leadership during their respective virtual meetings.
The legislature will reconvene virtually for eight days starting on Wednesday, Jan. 27. 011221
The Wyoming State Legislature convened their 2021 General Session on Tuesday, Jan. 12.
Rep. Eric Barlow was elected new speaker of the House. Barlow represents House District 03, which is located in portions of Campbell and Converse County.
Sen. Dan Dockstader was elected new president of the Senate. Dockstader represents Senate District 16, which covers portions of Lincoln, Sublette and Teton County.
Both the Senate and House of Representatives elected new leadership during their respective virtual meetings.
The legislature will reconvene virtually for eight days starting on Wednesday, Jan. 27. 011221
Most rivers in Wyoming will be at below-average levels this spring.
The report released Monday by the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated that the North Platte River, which runs through Casper and Douglas, will be at less than half of its average where it enters the Nebraska Panhandle.
USDA Hydrologist Jim Fahey said spring runoff values will be about 80% for Wyoming, while the Yellowstone and Shoshone rivers are estimated to be closer to 100%.
He also said the state started the new year with dry soil conditions, hindering initial runoff projections. 011221
The report released Monday by the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated that the North Platte River, which runs through Casper and Douglas, will be at less than half of its average where it enters the Nebraska Panhandle.
USDA Hydrologist Jim Fahey said spring runoff values will be about 80% for Wyoming, while the Yellowstone and Shoshone rivers are estimated to be closer to 100%.
He also said the state started the new year with dry soil conditions, hindering initial runoff projections. 011221
In the closing months of the Trump administration, energy companies have stockpiled enough drilling permits on western public lands to keep pumping oil for years.
That stands to undercut President-elect Joe Biden’s plans to block new drilling on public lands to address climate change.
An Associated Press analysis of government data shows the permit stockpiling has centered on oil-rich federal lands in New Mexico and Wyoming and accelerated in September and October as Biden was cementing his lead over President Donald Trump.
The industry was aided by speedier permitting approvals since Trump took office. 011121
That stands to undercut President-elect Joe Biden’s plans to block new drilling on public lands to address climate change.
An Associated Press analysis of government data shows the permit stockpiling has centered on oil-rich federal lands in New Mexico and Wyoming and accelerated in September and October as Biden was cementing his lead over President Donald Trump.
The industry was aided by speedier permitting approvals since Trump took office. 011121
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KKTY News gets a COVID-19 Vaccine Update from Darcey Cowardin and Johnna Shepherd from Converse County Public Health... listen to the entire interview here!
Recorded Thu 1/8/21 |
Samson Resources is getting out of the Powder River Basin.
The oil exploration and production company has signed a definitive agreement to divest all of its assets in the Basin for $215m.
The company did not disclose the name of the buyer.
The assets being sold produced around 8,500 barrels of oil equivalent per day (75% oil) last year.
The divestment is a part of Samson’s efforts to shed all its assets to settle its debt and pay its equity owners after it emerged from bankruptcy in 2017. 010621
The oil exploration and production company has signed a definitive agreement to divest all of its assets in the Basin for $215m.
The company did not disclose the name of the buyer.
The assets being sold produced around 8,500 barrels of oil equivalent per day (75% oil) last year.
The divestment is a part of Samson’s efforts to shed all its assets to settle its debt and pay its equity owners after it emerged from bankruptcy in 2017. 010621
The new year brings a new fee schedule at Wyoming’s state parks.
As the State faces an empty wallet, all fees are increasing.
For Wyoming residents, daily use fees at state parks like Glendo and Guernsey, recreation areas and archaeological sites will move to one rate year-round, with no more discount for off-season rates. They’re increasing from $4 and $6, depending on the season, to $7 year-round, while a visit to a historic site now costs $4 (up from $2-$3).
A resident’s annual pass has increased from $40 to $48. The largest increase is for annual camping passes, which are now $80 instead of $50.
Visitation at the state's parks is up across the state, as the coronavirus pandemic forced folks looking to stay active yet socially distant into the great outdoors. 010621
As the State faces an empty wallet, all fees are increasing.
For Wyoming residents, daily use fees at state parks like Glendo and Guernsey, recreation areas and archaeological sites will move to one rate year-round, with no more discount for off-season rates. They’re increasing from $4 and $6, depending on the season, to $7 year-round, while a visit to a historic site now costs $4 (up from $2-$3).
A resident’s annual pass has increased from $40 to $48. The largest increase is for annual camping passes, which are now $80 instead of $50.
Visitation at the state's parks is up across the state, as the coronavirus pandemic forced folks looking to stay active yet socially distant into the great outdoors. 010621
Douglas's newest city council member is Monte Gilbreath.
The Douglas City Council met Monday night to fill the seat left vacant by Councilman Karl Hertz's resignation.
Eight people applied for the vacancy,,, Gilbreath, Sherri Mullinnix, Ryan Andrews, Ryan Marcus, Russell Neice, Perry Hershberger, Bruce Jones and Scott Bauman.
Douglas Mayor Rene Kemper, council members John Bartling, Kim Pexton and new councilman Ron McNare questioned the applicants. Converse County Commissioner Jim WIllox also offered questions and input, but did not participate in the final vote.
Following a 40-minute executive session, the Council named Gilbreath to fill Hertz's term from January 5th, 2021 to December 31st, 2022.
The vote was 3 to 1, with Bartling, McNare and Pexton voting aye, and Mayor Kemper voting nay.
Councilmember Ron McNare was also sworn in on Monday evening before the candidate interviews.
010421
The Douglas City Council met Monday night to fill the seat left vacant by Councilman Karl Hertz's resignation.
Eight people applied for the vacancy,,, Gilbreath, Sherri Mullinnix, Ryan Andrews, Ryan Marcus, Russell Neice, Perry Hershberger, Bruce Jones and Scott Bauman.
Douglas Mayor Rene Kemper, council members John Bartling, Kim Pexton and new councilman Ron McNare questioned the applicants. Converse County Commissioner Jim WIllox also offered questions and input, but did not participate in the final vote.
Following a 40-minute executive session, the Council named Gilbreath to fill Hertz's term from January 5th, 2021 to December 31st, 2022.
The vote was 3 to 1, with Bartling, McNare and Pexton voting aye, and Mayor Kemper voting nay.
Councilmember Ron McNare was also sworn in on Monday evening before the candidate interviews.
010421
Southeastern Wyoming is windy, and that is not a news headline.
Those of us who live here or near, know that windy conditions are no surprise.
But it turns out that we're actually one of the windiest spots in the nation.
The National Weather service office in Cheyenne issued 96 high wind watches or warnings last year, and that's the most of any weather service office in the nation.
Midland/Odessa in west Texas issued 93... Great Falls and north-central Montana had 54, and the Riverton, Wyoming office had 41. 010421
Those of us who live here or near, know that windy conditions are no surprise.
But it turns out that we're actually one of the windiest spots in the nation.
The National Weather service office in Cheyenne issued 96 high wind watches or warnings last year, and that's the most of any weather service office in the nation.
Midland/Odessa in west Texas issued 93... Great Falls and north-central Montana had 54, and the Riverton, Wyoming office had 41. 010421
Teachers are back in the classroom today, but most area students get one more morning to sleep in.
Today is an in-service day for most area teachers, including those in Douglas, to prepare to return to the classroom after the Christmas break.
The only local district to see students back in the classroom today is Platte County 2 at Guernsey.
All other area students go back to school on Tuesday. 010421
Today is an in-service day for most area teachers, including those in Douglas, to prepare to return to the classroom after the Christmas break.
The only local district to see students back in the classroom today is Platte County 2 at Guernsey.
All other area students go back to school on Tuesday. 010421
The state's largest utility announced it will lend a hand to several non-profit organizations across Wyoming struggling to make ends meet this winter.
In Douglas, funding from the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation will go to the Converse Hope Center to support the mission of serving victims of crime, including domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and child, adult and elder abuse, and Solutions for Life to support the purchase of a new water heater and chairs for their transitional group home for mental health patients.
The Glenrock Boys and Girls Club will get funding to support their Feed the Kids on Friday program to support children who no longer have access to school nutrition programs on Fridays because of the four-day school week;
Five organizations in Casper received funding through the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation and Community Giving grants, including Artcore, Inc., Casper Theater Company, Food for Thought Project, Mimi’s House and the Nicolaysen Art Museum.
Across Rocky Mountain Power's service territory, a total of 58 grants were extended through the giving program this winter. Each grant ranged from $1,000 to $7,500. 122520
In Douglas, funding from the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation will go to the Converse Hope Center to support the mission of serving victims of crime, including domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and child, adult and elder abuse, and Solutions for Life to support the purchase of a new water heater and chairs for their transitional group home for mental health patients.
The Glenrock Boys and Girls Club will get funding to support their Feed the Kids on Friday program to support children who no longer have access to school nutrition programs on Fridays because of the four-day school week;
Five organizations in Casper received funding through the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation and Community Giving grants, including Artcore, Inc., Casper Theater Company, Food for Thought Project, Mimi’s House and the Nicolaysen Art Museum.
Across Rocky Mountain Power's service territory, a total of 58 grants were extended through the giving program this winter. Each grant ranged from $1,000 to $7,500. 122520
U.S. officials have approved a 5,000-well oil and gas project spread across more than 2,300 square miles in eastern Wyoming.
Drilling would occur year-round over a decade with each well expected to last about 30 years.
Construction would also include 1,500 miles of gas gathering pipelines and hundreds of miles of water pipelines, along with roads, electrical lines and other infrastructure.
In 2014, five major oil and gas companies proposed the development north of Douglas.
Wednesday's approval from the Bureau of Land Management finalizes the development plan, but actual construction will require separate approvals.
The BLM manages most of the underground mineral rights in the area, but about 90 percent of the land is privately or state owned.
Only about 6 percent of the project's 1,500 well pads will be built on bureau land.
Federal officials say the oil and gas field would create more than 8,000 jobs and between $18 billion and $28 billion in revenue.
A previous government study noted that the project calls for exemptions to operate in sage grouse and raptor habitat. 122420
Drilling would occur year-round over a decade with each well expected to last about 30 years.
Construction would also include 1,500 miles of gas gathering pipelines and hundreds of miles of water pipelines, along with roads, electrical lines and other infrastructure.
In 2014, five major oil and gas companies proposed the development north of Douglas.
Wednesday's approval from the Bureau of Land Management finalizes the development plan, but actual construction will require separate approvals.
The BLM manages most of the underground mineral rights in the area, but about 90 percent of the land is privately or state owned.
Only about 6 percent of the project's 1,500 well pads will be built on bureau land.
Federal officials say the oil and gas field would create more than 8,000 jobs and between $18 billion and $28 billion in revenue.
A previous government study noted that the project calls for exemptions to operate in sage grouse and raptor habitat. 122420
400 doses of Moderna COVID vaccine arrived Wednesday evening at Memorial Hospital of Converse County.
MHCC will collaborate with Converse County Health to start free vaccinations for health care workers, emergency workers and first responders in accordance with Wyoming State Department of Health 1a vaccination plans.
MHCC officials say the vaccine is optional, and those who choose not to get it now may choose to get it later, at no charge.
Vaccine doses will be administered on Thursday morning from 8:30 to 10:30 AM in a closed off section of the Arbor Cafe at Memorial Hospital of Converse County.
Once the vaccine becomes more widely available, MHCC and CCPH will continue to partner to offer it to all residents in Converse County. 122420
MHCC will collaborate with Converse County Health to start free vaccinations for health care workers, emergency workers and first responders in accordance with Wyoming State Department of Health 1a vaccination plans.
MHCC officials say the vaccine is optional, and those who choose not to get it now may choose to get it later, at no charge.
Vaccine doses will be administered on Thursday morning from 8:30 to 10:30 AM in a closed off section of the Arbor Cafe at Memorial Hospital of Converse County.
Once the vaccine becomes more widely available, MHCC and CCPH will continue to partner to offer it to all residents in Converse County. 122420
The student population at Douglas schools has dropped to its lowest in more than a decade.
Numbers released Monday by the Wyoming Department of Education show Converse County School District #1's fall 2020 student enrollment at 1643 students. That's down from 1782 in 2019.
Other districts around the state are showing similar drops.
Natrona County District #1 dropped to 12.754, their lowest enrollment since 2012.
Not everyone is showing a slump.
Converse #2 at Glenrock is up to 668 students, and that the highest it's been since 2013.
Niobrara #1 at Lusk has seen an enrollment increase of 607 students, from 790 in the district last year, to 1397 this year... that's more than 76%... Niobrara's biggest enrollment ever. But they're not all in the classroom... it's mainly attributable to Niobrara's virtual education programs. More students have turned to online learning since COVID-19 emerged here in March.
Statewide student enrollment dropped to 91,938 for the current school year. That's 1,894 fewer students than the previous year, a decline of about 2%.
Thirty-eight of the state's 48 districts suffered enrollment declines.
COVID-19 and the energy downturn are being blamed for the falling numbers. 122120
Numbers released Monday by the Wyoming Department of Education show Converse County School District #1's fall 2020 student enrollment at 1643 students. That's down from 1782 in 2019.
Other districts around the state are showing similar drops.
Natrona County District #1 dropped to 12.754, their lowest enrollment since 2012.
Not everyone is showing a slump.
Converse #2 at Glenrock is up to 668 students, and that the highest it's been since 2013.
Niobrara #1 at Lusk has seen an enrollment increase of 607 students, from 790 in the district last year, to 1397 this year... that's more than 76%... Niobrara's biggest enrollment ever. But they're not all in the classroom... it's mainly attributable to Niobrara's virtual education programs. More students have turned to online learning since COVID-19 emerged here in March.
Statewide student enrollment dropped to 91,938 for the current school year. That's 1,894 fewer students than the previous year, a decline of about 2%.
Thirty-eight of the state's 48 districts suffered enrollment declines.
COVID-19 and the energy downturn are being blamed for the falling numbers. 122120
The Converse County Sheriff's Office held their annual Shop with a Cop event on Monday, but with a bit of a twist his year.
In October the Converse County Sheriff's Office advertised for parents, or guardians, and their children to work together to write a short letter about what Christmas means to them.
Each participating child was asked to create a wish list of 3 to 5 items they would like to receive for Christmas. Parents or guardians were asked to include a brief description of the family's need, participating children's names and ages, and family contact information.
Due to generous donations from the community, the Sheriff's Department was able to buy and wrap gifts for every child and family who was submitted for consideration.
Devon Energy donated $1,500.00 to this cause, and an additional $2,000.00 was donated by other community members who requested they remain anonymous.
On Monday, Family groups were brought in and seated at tables, socially distanced from each other, in our training room. Deputies were assigned a family group and delivered the presents to their group's table. Once all the kids had their presents it was a wonderful experience watching them open their presents. Even masks couldn't hide the joy on the children's faces.
Wyoming Highway Patrol Troopers were also present and brought with them gift baskets filled with Christmas food items. These were provided by the Wyoming Highway Patrol Association in conjunction with the Wyoming First Lady's Hunger Initiative Partnership. 122120
In October the Converse County Sheriff's Office advertised for parents, or guardians, and their children to work together to write a short letter about what Christmas means to them.
Each participating child was asked to create a wish list of 3 to 5 items they would like to receive for Christmas. Parents or guardians were asked to include a brief description of the family's need, participating children's names and ages, and family contact information.
Due to generous donations from the community, the Sheriff's Department was able to buy and wrap gifts for every child and family who was submitted for consideration.
Devon Energy donated $1,500.00 to this cause, and an additional $2,000.00 was donated by other community members who requested they remain anonymous.
On Monday, Family groups were brought in and seated at tables, socially distanced from each other, in our training room. Deputies were assigned a family group and delivered the presents to their group's table. Once all the kids had their presents it was a wonderful experience watching them open their presents. Even masks couldn't hide the joy on the children's faces.
Wyoming Highway Patrol Troopers were also present and brought with them gift baskets filled with Christmas food items. These were provided by the Wyoming Highway Patrol Association in conjunction with the Wyoming First Lady's Hunger Initiative Partnership. 122120
Wreaths were placed on veterans' graves at the Douglas Park Cemetery this weekend as part of a national remembrance.
Saturday was National Wreaths Across America Day at 2,557 participating locations.
Dedicated Americans in every state honored our nation’s heroes by placing a total of 1.7 million veterans’ wreaths on their headstones and remembering them, by saying each name out loud.
The group's mission is to Remember the fallen, Honor those that serve and their families, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom.
Each live, balsam veteran’s wreath is a gift of respect and appreciation, donated by a private citizen or organization and it is placed on graves by volunteers as a gesture of gratitude for the freedoms Americans enjoy.
The wreaths represent a living memorial that honors veterans, active duty military and their families, and when volunteers say the name of a veteran out loud, and place a wreath, it ensures they live on in our memory. 122020
Saturday was National Wreaths Across America Day at 2,557 participating locations.
Dedicated Americans in every state honored our nation’s heroes by placing a total of 1.7 million veterans’ wreaths on their headstones and remembering them, by saying each name out loud.
The group's mission is to Remember the fallen, Honor those that serve and their families, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom.
Each live, balsam veteran’s wreath is a gift of respect and appreciation, donated by a private citizen or organization and it is placed on graves by volunteers as a gesture of gratitude for the freedoms Americans enjoy.
The wreaths represent a living memorial that honors veterans, active duty military and their families, and when volunteers say the name of a veteran out loud, and place a wreath, it ensures they live on in our memory. 122020
More Converse County energy is filling the electrical grid.
NextEra Energy Resources’ Cedar Springs Wind Farm is now online and generating power as of Dec. 11th.
The $650 million dollar project has been under construction since October of last year.
The 192 wind turbines north of Douglas along the Energy Highway, Highway 59, will generate 533 megawatts of electricity. 121720
NextEra Energy Resources’ Cedar Springs Wind Farm is now online and generating power as of Dec. 11th.
The $650 million dollar project has been under construction since October of last year.
The 192 wind turbines north of Douglas along the Energy Highway, Highway 59, will generate 533 megawatts of electricity. 121720
Q: Will I Get A Ticket?
A: Did You Break A Law?
What part does local law enforcement play in enforcement of public health orders?
The Converse County Sheriff's Office, Douglas and Glenrock Police Departments issued a joint statement this morning stating that their position has always been to help community members understand the health and safety guidelines like the current mask and public gathering orders, as well as the overnight bar and restaurant curfews.
The text of todays statement is as follows...
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 11, 2020
The intent of the Converse County law enforcement agencies, since the beginning of the
COVID-19 public health emergency, has always been to help our community members
understand the health and safety guidelines issued by the Center of Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC), Wyoming Department of Health, and Converse County Public Health.
Starting in March of this year, at the very beginning of the COVID-19 public health
emergency, public health orders, variances, and exemptions have been issued at a state and
county level. We, as Peace Officers, understand the difficulties this virus has presented and
the same difficulties in understanding the purpose and interpretation of some of these
orders. Yesterday, state issued public health orders went into effect which included a
statewide face covering order and restrictions applying to businesses and gatherings.
Our philosophy towards all state and county issued public health orders are to assist our
communities with understanding the orders and encouraging voluntary compliance to help
protect one another during this crisis.
All our community members should remember the businesses impacted by these orders
are responsible for ensuring compliance with the orders. Businesses can deny service to
those who do not comply with the public health order. It is no different than a business
posting a sign saying, “No shirt, No Shoes, No Service,” and refusing service to those who
don’t comply.
Peace Officers will respond to disputes or disturbances related to public health orders and
will take appropriate enforcement action based upon the unique circumstances of each
incident.
We encourage everyone to work together during these trying times, be respectful of one
another, and together, we will all get through this.
We wish all a Wonderful and Safe Holiday Season!
Sheriff Clint Becker, Converse County
Chief Todd Byerly, Town of Douglas
Chief David Theel, Town of Glenrock
121120
A: Did You Break A Law?
What part does local law enforcement play in enforcement of public health orders?
The Converse County Sheriff's Office, Douglas and Glenrock Police Departments issued a joint statement this morning stating that their position has always been to help community members understand the health and safety guidelines like the current mask and public gathering orders, as well as the overnight bar and restaurant curfews.
The text of todays statement is as follows...
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 11, 2020
The intent of the Converse County law enforcement agencies, since the beginning of the
COVID-19 public health emergency, has always been to help our community members
understand the health and safety guidelines issued by the Center of Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC), Wyoming Department of Health, and Converse County Public Health.
Starting in March of this year, at the very beginning of the COVID-19 public health
emergency, public health orders, variances, and exemptions have been issued at a state and
county level. We, as Peace Officers, understand the difficulties this virus has presented and
the same difficulties in understanding the purpose and interpretation of some of these
orders. Yesterday, state issued public health orders went into effect which included a
statewide face covering order and restrictions applying to businesses and gatherings.
Our philosophy towards all state and county issued public health orders are to assist our
communities with understanding the orders and encouraging voluntary compliance to help
protect one another during this crisis.
All our community members should remember the businesses impacted by these orders
are responsible for ensuring compliance with the orders. Businesses can deny service to
those who do not comply with the public health order. It is no different than a business
posting a sign saying, “No shirt, No Shoes, No Service,” and refusing service to those who
don’t comply.
Peace Officers will respond to disputes or disturbances related to public health orders and
will take appropriate enforcement action based upon the unique circumstances of each
incident.
We encourage everyone to work together during these trying times, be respectful of one
another, and together, we will all get through this.
We wish all a Wonderful and Safe Holiday Season!
Sheriff Clint Becker, Converse County
Chief Todd Byerly, Town of Douglas
Chief David Theel, Town of Glenrock
121120
Wyoming won't join.
Gov. Mark Gordon says Wyoming won't be joining Republican-led states in asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear a lawsuit filed by Texas questioning election procedures in states where Democrat Joe Biden won in November.
Gordon says he supports the lawsuit, but the case could have “unintended consequences” that impinge on state sovereignty.
The case seeks to invalidate Electoral College votes in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
Seventeen other Republican-led states have asked the high court to hear the lawsuit.
Thirty-two seated and newly elected Wyoming legislators asked Gordon to join the case. 121020
Here's Governor Gordon's Statement...
I strongly support the Supreme Court hearing the Constitutional issue of the Electors Clause raised by Texas in their petition. President Trump has the right to bring electoral issues for resolution in the US judicial system. I, along with Wyoming voters, overwhelmingly supported President Trump through our electoral process. As Governor, my sworn duty is to protect the right of Wyoming citizens to vote. I also agree that States must follow laws passed by their legislature concerning elections. I could not be more proud of Wyoming’s electoral process, both in terms of security and the ability for Wyomingites to cast their vote.
We were not informed nor asked by Texas to consider joining their suit. The State of Texas’s filing was more than 150 pages and there was inadequate time to properly consider the ramifications of joining the motion specifically, or to thoughtfully consider joining the supporting states’ brief before it was filed. I asked the Attorney General to look into the case and consider possible actions the State of Wyoming might take. General Hill did this, and after significant consideration we believe that the case could have unintended consequences relating to a constitutional principle that the State of Wyoming holds dear – that States are sovereign, free to govern themselves.
Should the Supreme Court grant Texas’s motion, we will weigh in a manner that is suitable and appropriate for the issues raised. As always, I will make sure Wyoming’s interests are protected.
Gov. Mark Gordon says Wyoming won't be joining Republican-led states in asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear a lawsuit filed by Texas questioning election procedures in states where Democrat Joe Biden won in November.
Gordon says he supports the lawsuit, but the case could have “unintended consequences” that impinge on state sovereignty.
The case seeks to invalidate Electoral College votes in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
Seventeen other Republican-led states have asked the high court to hear the lawsuit.
Thirty-two seated and newly elected Wyoming legislators asked Gordon to join the case. 121020
Here's Governor Gordon's Statement...
I strongly support the Supreme Court hearing the Constitutional issue of the Electors Clause raised by Texas in their petition. President Trump has the right to bring electoral issues for resolution in the US judicial system. I, along with Wyoming voters, overwhelmingly supported President Trump through our electoral process. As Governor, my sworn duty is to protect the right of Wyoming citizens to vote. I also agree that States must follow laws passed by their legislature concerning elections. I could not be more proud of Wyoming’s electoral process, both in terms of security and the ability for Wyomingites to cast their vote.
We were not informed nor asked by Texas to consider joining their suit. The State of Texas’s filing was more than 150 pages and there was inadequate time to properly consider the ramifications of joining the motion specifically, or to thoughtfully consider joining the supporting states’ brief before it was filed. I asked the Attorney General to look into the case and consider possible actions the State of Wyoming might take. General Hill did this, and after significant consideration we believe that the case could have unintended consequences relating to a constitutional principle that the State of Wyoming holds dear – that States are sovereign, free to govern themselves.
Should the Supreme Court grant Texas’s motion, we will weigh in a manner that is suitable and appropriate for the issues raised. As always, I will make sure Wyoming’s interests are protected.
A Casper woman has died in a one-car rollover on I-25.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol responded to a call Wednesday night at about 7:15pm.
The crash happened around milepost 174 west of Glenrock.
A 2002 Ford Ranger was headed northbound on Interstate 25 when the vehicle went off the right side of the highway, overcorrected to the left, enter the median and rolled.
56-year-old Casper resident Anita J. Witten died in the crash. Troopers say Witten was not wearing a seatbelt.
Driver inattention is being investigated as a possible contributing factor.
This is the 121st fatality on Wyoming’s roadways in 2020. 121020
The Wyoming Highway Patrol responded to a call Wednesday night at about 7:15pm.
The crash happened around milepost 174 west of Glenrock.
A 2002 Ford Ranger was headed northbound on Interstate 25 when the vehicle went off the right side of the highway, overcorrected to the left, enter the median and rolled.
56-year-old Casper resident Anita J. Witten died in the crash. Troopers say Witten was not wearing a seatbelt.
Driver inattention is being investigated as a possible contributing factor.
This is the 121st fatality on Wyoming’s roadways in 2020. 121020
COVID-19 just took your seat at the gym.
Converse County School District #1 has announced that, due to the pandemic and updated state and Wyoming High School Activities Association requirements, Douglas High School and Douglas Middle School athletic and activity events will not be open to students and the general public.
State Department of Health and WHSAA guidelines will only allow 100 spectators or 25% of seating capacity, whichever is smaller, to view events.
Absaraka Conference athletic directors have decided to limit visitor and home spectators to family and close friends. There will also be strict protocols for spectators which include wearing face masks at all times, restricted seating areas, no food or beverage in the gymnasium, and the clearing of the gym between contests.
The WHSAA has also instituted sanctions for schools where the new requirements are not followed.
These sanctions can lead to teams being ineligible for post-season play; so it’s imperative that those who do attend events adhere to the requirements.
The winter sports season begins this weekend across the state.
All questions can be directed to the Douglas High School Activities Office at 358-4040. 120820
Converse County School District #1 has announced that, due to the pandemic and updated state and Wyoming High School Activities Association requirements, Douglas High School and Douglas Middle School athletic and activity events will not be open to students and the general public.
State Department of Health and WHSAA guidelines will only allow 100 spectators or 25% of seating capacity, whichever is smaller, to view events.
Absaraka Conference athletic directors have decided to limit visitor and home spectators to family and close friends. There will also be strict protocols for spectators which include wearing face masks at all times, restricted seating areas, no food or beverage in the gymnasium, and the clearing of the gym between contests.
The WHSAA has also instituted sanctions for schools where the new requirements are not followed.
These sanctions can lead to teams being ineligible for post-season play; so it’s imperative that those who do attend events adhere to the requirements.
The winter sports season begins this weekend across the state.
All questions can be directed to the Douglas High School Activities Office at 358-4040. 120820
A Converse County Commissioner will lead their state organization.
Commissioner Jim Willox has been elected as the 2021-2022 President of the Wyoming County Commissioners Association. Other officers elected were Johnson County Commissioner Bill Novotny as Vice President, and Teton County Commissioner Natalia Macker as Treasurer.
Commissioner Willox has been an active member of the WCCA including being a member of their Board of Directors and Chairman of their Transportation Committee. He has been a Converse County Commissioner for fourteen years. Jim is a lifelong resident of Converse County, having been raised on his family’s ranch south of Douglas. He is a licensed real estate agent and businessman in Douglas.
Wyoming County Commissioners Association members elected new executive leadership from among their peers at their 2020 virtual Winter Meeting. 120820
Commissioner Jim Willox has been elected as the 2021-2022 President of the Wyoming County Commissioners Association. Other officers elected were Johnson County Commissioner Bill Novotny as Vice President, and Teton County Commissioner Natalia Macker as Treasurer.
Commissioner Willox has been an active member of the WCCA including being a member of their Board of Directors and Chairman of their Transportation Committee. He has been a Converse County Commissioner for fourteen years. Jim is a lifelong resident of Converse County, having been raised on his family’s ranch south of Douglas. He is a licensed real estate agent and businessman in Douglas.
Wyoming County Commissioners Association members elected new executive leadership from among their peers at their 2020 virtual Winter Meeting. 120820
North Dakota's attorney general says the Army Corps of Engineers has reversed course on an Obama-era proposal to charge for water drawn from reservoirs that the Corps manages.
North Dakota Republican Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem headed the effort that was also backed by attorneys general from Wyoming and ten other western states.
They sent a letter last year to the Trump administration asking that the proposal be withdrawn. Stenehjem said it would have usurped states’ authority over their own water.
He says that in North Dakota, 75% of Missouri River water could have been subjected to fees.
Glendo Reservoir on the North Platte River south of Douglas would have been among the waters affected. 120420
North Dakota Republican Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem headed the effort that was also backed by attorneys general from Wyoming and ten other western states.
They sent a letter last year to the Trump administration asking that the proposal be withdrawn. Stenehjem said it would have usurped states’ authority over their own water.
He says that in North Dakota, 75% of Missouri River water could have been subjected to fees.
Glendo Reservoir on the North Platte River south of Douglas would have been among the waters affected. 120420
Natrona County's mask mandates have been extended for more than another month.
The orders were originally signed on November 18th, and had been set to expire on Friday.
Natrona County Public Health Officer Mark Dowell has extended those orders through Christmas and New Years til January 8th.
The order now covers children ages 12 and up as well as adults. It requires masks to be worn in most public places including businesses, government buildings, medical facilities and public transit. Face coverings are also required when entering or exiting a restaurant, bar or gym.
Exceptions include private offices, at a restaurant table or while exercising at the gym. 120420
The orders were originally signed on November 18th, and had been set to expire on Friday.
Natrona County Public Health Officer Mark Dowell has extended those orders through Christmas and New Years til January 8th.
The order now covers children ages 12 and up as well as adults. It requires masks to be worn in most public places including businesses, government buildings, medical facilities and public transit. Face coverings are also required when entering or exiting a restaurant, bar or gym.
Exceptions include private offices, at a restaurant table or while exercising at the gym. 120420
Two booms and two busts ago, five major oil companies proposed a plan to drill 5,000 wells across about 1.5 million acres of land in Converse County and eastern Wyoming.
Now, Gov. Mark Gordon has completed his review of Converse County Oil and Gas Project, with final federal approval expected by the end of year.
The final environmental review was published on July 30th. It allows for the construction of up to 5,000 wells, 1,500 miles of gas gathering pipelines and 900 miles of water pipelines, along with roads, electrical lines and other infrastructure.
Energy companies originally behind the proposal include Occidental Petroleum Corporation, Chesapeake Energy Corporation, Devon Energy, EOG Resources Inc. and Northwoods Energy.
Officials expect the federal review to be completed and signed by Dec. 15, well before the energy-friendly Trump administration leaves office. 120220
Now, Gov. Mark Gordon has completed his review of Converse County Oil and Gas Project, with final federal approval expected by the end of year.
The final environmental review was published on July 30th. It allows for the construction of up to 5,000 wells, 1,500 miles of gas gathering pipelines and 900 miles of water pipelines, along with roads, electrical lines and other infrastructure.
Energy companies originally behind the proposal include Occidental Petroleum Corporation, Chesapeake Energy Corporation, Devon Energy, EOG Resources Inc. and Northwoods Energy.
Officials expect the federal review to be completed and signed by Dec. 15, well before the energy-friendly Trump administration leaves office. 120220
Peabody Energy says they will no longer cover medical expenses for retired coal miners on Medicare and will stop providing life insurance to retirees.
After the company went through a financial review earlier this year, Peabody announced that continuing to cover the cost of existing retiree medical benefits was "not sustainable".
Discontinuing the retiree health care program will save Peabody Energy $174.5 million.
The coal operator owns the North Antelope Rochelle, Rawhide and Caballo mines in the Powder River Basin. 113020
After the company went through a financial review earlier this year, Peabody announced that continuing to cover the cost of existing retiree medical benefits was "not sustainable".
Discontinuing the retiree health care program will save Peabody Energy $174.5 million.
The coal operator owns the North Antelope Rochelle, Rawhide and Caballo mines in the Powder River Basin. 113020
Like many school districts around the state, Converse County School District #2 at Glenrock is running short on staff.
Positive COVID-19 isolations and quarantines have hit our staff hard and our pool of available substitutes is not deep enough to cover the current absences.
On Friday, the district said it was going to offer a class for potential substitutes to get the necessary hours in order to apply for a permit.
More information is available on the Converse County School District 2 Facebook page. 112120
Positive COVID-19 isolations and quarantines have hit our staff hard and our pool of available substitutes is not deep enough to cover the current absences.
On Friday, the district said it was going to offer a class for potential substitutes to get the necessary hours in order to apply for a permit.
More information is available on the Converse County School District 2 Facebook page. 112120
Local public health orders requiring all adults in Converse County to wear face masks will go into effect today.
The state approved a local mask order for Converse County Thursday morning
Beginning today, face coverings will be required in all retail and commercial businesses, local and state government offices, and healthcare facilities. Masks will also be required on public transportation.
Similar orders have been passed or being considered in half of Wyoming's 23 counties.
Converse County Public Health Officer Dr Mark Campbell said its not just about face masks, but they will help...
The state approved a local mask order for Converse County Thursday morning
Beginning today, face coverings will be required in all retail and commercial businesses, local and state government offices, and healthcare facilities. Masks will also be required on public transportation.
Similar orders have been passed or being considered in half of Wyoming's 23 counties.
Converse County Public Health Officer Dr Mark Campbell said its not just about face masks, but they will help...
The local mask order is in effect from Friday November 20th to Friday, December 4th. 112020
A California man has been arrested on a variety of charges after a 140 mile chase that started in Gillette and ended just north of Douglas.
Police first got involved when 39-year old David Suckow of Lomita, California, was reported for impersonating an officer at a Gillette gas station.
Gillette Police, the Wyoming Highway Patrol, chased the man down Highway 50 at speeds over 100 miles an hour, the east on 387 to Wright and south on 59.
A second attempt with spike strips finally stopped the man at the 6-mile marker just north of Douglas. After several more attempts to escape, a Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper finally hit the vehicle hard enough to cause it to turn over.
Suckow was charged with fleeing to elude, reckless driving, speed, and other traffic-related offenses. He could also be facing additional charges in Gillette. 112020
Police first got involved when 39-year old David Suckow of Lomita, California, was reported for impersonating an officer at a Gillette gas station.
Gillette Police, the Wyoming Highway Patrol, chased the man down Highway 50 at speeds over 100 miles an hour, the east on 387 to Wright and south on 59.
A second attempt with spike strips finally stopped the man at the 6-mile marker just north of Douglas. After several more attempts to escape, a Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper finally hit the vehicle hard enough to cause it to turn over.
Suckow was charged with fleeing to elude, reckless driving, speed, and other traffic-related offenses. He could also be facing additional charges in Gillette. 112020
One man's been arrested and another was taken to the hospital after a stabbing incident early Sunday morning in the Glenrock High School Parking lot.
Glenrock Police arrested 35 year old Kenneth James Bigford and booked him on charges of aggravated assault and battery.
Police say an initial investigation indicated the suspect and victim had engaged in a verbal disagreement which became physical and resulted in the victim being stabbed.
The victim, Kody Hill, was treated by medics on the scene and taken to the hospital for further treatment.
All parties involved were adults and the incident did not involve high school students or a school activity. 111020
Glenrock Police arrested 35 year old Kenneth James Bigford and booked him on charges of aggravated assault and battery.
Police say an initial investigation indicated the suspect and victim had engaged in a verbal disagreement which became physical and resulted in the victim being stabbed.
The victim, Kody Hill, was treated by medics on the scene and taken to the hospital for further treatment.
All parties involved were adults and the incident did not involve high school students or a school activity. 111020
Veterans Day ceremonies in Douglas will change this year due to COVID concerns.
Douglas American Legion Post 8 commander Corky Moore says that, while the cannon reports will go off in the pre-dawn hours, as usual on Wednesday morning, the Veterans Day program will be held later in the morning, at 11:00 AM at the Douglas American Legion Hall. There will be an invocation and a short performance by the Douglas High School Choir.
No breakfast or luncheon will be served this year, but Social Quarters will be open Wednesday morning at 6:00 AM.
The public is invited to come honor our Veterans. Social distancing guidelines will be followed. 111020
Douglas American Legion Post 8 commander Corky Moore says that, while the cannon reports will go off in the pre-dawn hours, as usual on Wednesday morning, the Veterans Day program will be held later in the morning, at 11:00 AM at the Douglas American Legion Hall. There will be an invocation and a short performance by the Douglas High School Choir.
No breakfast or luncheon will be served this year, but Social Quarters will be open Wednesday morning at 6:00 AM.
The public is invited to come honor our Veterans. Social distancing guidelines will be followed. 111020
Converse County Public Health Department reported 23 new positive cases for COVID-19 Tuesday morning.
Cases 355 through 377 include 10 men and 13 women, 22 from Douglas, 1 from Glenrock, ages ranging from under 20s, to their 70's. Among the latest count, 4 Douglas schools staff members, 2 staff members at the district level, 1 Douglas Middle School student, 1 Glenrock Intermediate School student
Currently, Converse County has 110 active cases (108 positive & 2 probable). There are currently 6 COVID-related hospitalizations at Memorial Hospital of Converse County. 5 COVID-related deaths in Converse County. 111020
Cases 355 through 377 include 10 men and 13 women, 22 from Douglas, 1 from Glenrock, ages ranging from under 20s, to their 70's. Among the latest count, 4 Douglas schools staff members, 2 staff members at the district level, 1 Douglas Middle School student, 1 Glenrock Intermediate School student
Currently, Converse County has 110 active cases (108 positive & 2 probable). There are currently 6 COVID-related hospitalizations at Memorial Hospital of Converse County. 5 COVID-related deaths in Converse County. 111020
Heavy voter turnout in Converse County for Tuesday's general election.
There were 6,792 registered voters coming into Election Day. Enough new voters registered for the first time to bring the total number of ballots cast to 7,009... a 103.19 percent voter turnout in Converse County.
With two seats open, three candidates on the ballot and a strong write-in campaign from a fourth, the Douglas City Council race drew a lot of attention. Challenger Ron McNare is the top vote getter with 1557, and incumbent Karl Hertz is #2 at 1023. Write in Perry Hershberger draws 1005, and incumbent Monte Gilbreath receives 939. McNare and Hertz will be seated on the Douglas City Council.
Two seats open on the Converse County Commission, and they both go to the incumbents.
Commissioner Rick Grant gets 4468, Commissioner Mike Colling gets 4216. Challenger Darek Joppru got 1705 votes.
Seven candidates for five seats open on the Converse County School District #1 school board. The top five... Tom Holt, 2943... Amy Hughes, 2246... JC Forgey, 2212...Staci Hill, 2086, and Terry Moss, 2031. Those five will be seated on the CCSD1 school board. Also receiving votes, Justin Winney, 1771, and Russel Neice, 1331.
Four people running for three seats on the Converse County School District 2 board on the west side of the county... the top three... Vicki Widiker, 1149... Jared Williams, 1135, and Brad Jones with 1047. Kirk Lehner received 958 votes.
One other county race of note, the Glenrock Hospital District, two seats open, four candidates, the winners are Kate Anfinson with 797 votes... and Deanna Bradshaw with 741. John Moulton drew 725 votes, and Chuck Moore received 543. 110320
There were 6,792 registered voters coming into Election Day. Enough new voters registered for the first time to bring the total number of ballots cast to 7,009... a 103.19 percent voter turnout in Converse County.
With two seats open, three candidates on the ballot and a strong write-in campaign from a fourth, the Douglas City Council race drew a lot of attention. Challenger Ron McNare is the top vote getter with 1557, and incumbent Karl Hertz is #2 at 1023. Write in Perry Hershberger draws 1005, and incumbent Monte Gilbreath receives 939. McNare and Hertz will be seated on the Douglas City Council.
Two seats open on the Converse County Commission, and they both go to the incumbents.
Commissioner Rick Grant gets 4468, Commissioner Mike Colling gets 4216. Challenger Darek Joppru got 1705 votes.
Seven candidates for five seats open on the Converse County School District #1 school board. The top five... Tom Holt, 2943... Amy Hughes, 2246... JC Forgey, 2212...Staci Hill, 2086, and Terry Moss, 2031. Those five will be seated on the CCSD1 school board. Also receiving votes, Justin Winney, 1771, and Russel Neice, 1331.
Four people running for three seats on the Converse County School District 2 board on the west side of the county... the top three... Vicki Widiker, 1149... Jared Williams, 1135, and Brad Jones with 1047. Kirk Lehner received 958 votes.
One other county race of note, the Glenrock Hospital District, two seats open, four candidates, the winners are Kate Anfinson with 797 votes... and Deanna Bradshaw with 741. John Moulton drew 725 votes, and Chuck Moore received 543. 110320
A new face behind the bench...
Governor Mark Gordon has appointed Clark Allan to be a Circuit Court Judge for the Eighth Judicial District serving Converse County. Allan's appointment fills the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Vincent Case.
Allan has served as Deputy Teton County Attorney since 1999 and is currently Chief of the Criminal Division. He previously served as Sublette County Attorney for five years and as an attorney in private practice in Jackson. Allan received his Bachelor’s and Law degrees from Brigham Young University. Allan, his wife, and his son reside in Jackson. 102620
Governor Mark Gordon has appointed Clark Allan to be a Circuit Court Judge for the Eighth Judicial District serving Converse County. Allan's appointment fills the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Vincent Case.
Allan has served as Deputy Teton County Attorney since 1999 and is currently Chief of the Criminal Division. He previously served as Sublette County Attorney for five years and as an attorney in private practice in Jackson. Allan received his Bachelor’s and Law degrees from Brigham Young University. Allan, his wife, and his son reside in Jackson. 102620
Douglas firefighters battled a blaze at OK Wrecking Monday afternoon.
A little after 2pm Monday the Converse County Joint Justice Center was notified of a large, rapidly growing fire in the OK Wrecking Salvage Yard north of Douglas.
The Douglas Fire Department was dispatched. Due to the rapidly growing fire, Deputies began notifying and assisting residents in the path of the fire to evacuate. Douglas Police Officers assisted with blocking off the roadways to keep traffic down. Converse County Road and Bridge, Tyler Exploration, KCK, OK Wrecking and A&W Water provided equipment. These companies provided water for firefighters and created firebreaks. Residents in the area provided access across their properties for firefighting efforts, and there were many volunteers who helped to evacuate animals and property.
The fire appeared to have started on the north west end of the property, and by 5pm Monday the fire appeared to be about 95% contained.
Upon investigation it was discovered two juveniles were looking for auto parts in the salvage yard. These juveniles began playing with matches and started the fire.
The two juveniles did report the fire, and later one of them admitted they had started the fire by accident. It appears about 60% present of the salvage yard has been burned. The case remains under investigation. 101320
A little after 2pm Monday the Converse County Joint Justice Center was notified of a large, rapidly growing fire in the OK Wrecking Salvage Yard north of Douglas.
The Douglas Fire Department was dispatched. Due to the rapidly growing fire, Deputies began notifying and assisting residents in the path of the fire to evacuate. Douglas Police Officers assisted with blocking off the roadways to keep traffic down. Converse County Road and Bridge, Tyler Exploration, KCK, OK Wrecking and A&W Water provided equipment. These companies provided water for firefighters and created firebreaks. Residents in the area provided access across their properties for firefighting efforts, and there were many volunteers who helped to evacuate animals and property.
The fire appeared to have started on the north west end of the property, and by 5pm Monday the fire appeared to be about 95% contained.
Upon investigation it was discovered two juveniles were looking for auto parts in the salvage yard. These juveniles began playing with matches and started the fire.
The two juveniles did report the fire, and later one of them admitted they had started the fire by accident. It appears about 60% present of the salvage yard has been burned. The case remains under investigation. 101320
Governor Mark Gordon, pursuant to a directive from the White House reflecting the U.S. Flag Code, has ordered both the U.S. and State of Wyoming flags be flown at half-staff statewide immediately on Friday, September 18, 2020, for the death of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
The flags will remain at half-staff until the day of internment.
Once that date has been established, the Governor's office will send out another notification to advise when the flags will be returned to full-staff. 091920
The flags will remain at half-staff until the day of internment.
Once that date has been established, the Governor's office will send out another notification to advise when the flags will be returned to full-staff. 091920
Eastern Wyoming College in Douglas has been notified by public health officials that a student attending classes on the Douglas Campus has tested positive for COVID-19.
College officials are deep cleaning all areas where the student was present.
Public Health officials are working directly with this student to determine contact tracing and will directly contact any individuals who are determined to be at risk due to close contact.
Close contact refers to an individual who was within 6 feet of an infected person for at least 15 minutes, regardless of whether masks were in use. 091820
College officials are deep cleaning all areas where the student was present.
Public Health officials are working directly with this student to determine contact tracing and will directly contact any individuals who are determined to be at risk due to close contact.
Close contact refers to an individual who was within 6 feet of an infected person for at least 15 minutes, regardless of whether masks were in use. 091820
More trees, more mess.
Last week's snowstorm did extensive damage to area trees, which were still in full summer leaf.
The caretakers at Ayres Natural Bridge Park, west of Douglas, have announced that the park will remain closed until further notice.
The extra closure will give them the time needed to clean up the mess and restore the parking lot and camping spaces at the county-owned park. 091520
Last week's snowstorm did extensive damage to area trees, which were still in full summer leaf.
The caretakers at Ayres Natural Bridge Park, west of Douglas, have announced that the park will remain closed until further notice.
The extra closure will give them the time needed to clean up the mess and restore the parking lot and camping spaces at the county-owned park. 091520
Two new COVID-19 cases reported in Converse County over the weekend... and they're both students.
The Converse County Public Health Department says these cases raise Converse County's total to 47.
The 46th case is a student at Douglas Middle School.
The 47th is a student at Douglas High School.
Contact investigation is completed for both.
If your student is identified as a contact, you will be notified by Converse County Public Health.
Currently, Converse County has 19 active cases ( 16 positive +3 probables). Quarantine numbers are pending. 091320
The Converse County Public Health Department says these cases raise Converse County's total to 47.
The 46th case is a student at Douglas Middle School.
The 47th is a student at Douglas High School.
Contact investigation is completed for both.
If your student is identified as a contact, you will be notified by Converse County Public Health.
Currently, Converse County has 19 active cases ( 16 positive +3 probables). Quarantine numbers are pending. 091320
Converse County Public Health is doing contact tracing on a cluster of COVID-19 cases related to a Douglas bar.
On Wednesday, the Public Health Department received notification of five lab confirmed coronavirus cases , one more probable case and 18 additional people quarantined in Converse County that have been tied to The Waterhole.
Whether a person tests positive or negative, confirmed contacts are required to quarantine 14 days from the last exposure or contact with the positive case.
Anyone that was at The Waterhole bar from September 1st 2020 on, and has symptoms of covid including cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose, sore throat, chills, body aches, headaches, diarrhea, or change to their sense of taste or smell should be tested.
Those experiencing symptoms should contact the COVID-19 Hotline managed by Memorial Hospital of Converse County at (307) 358-7399. 090920
On Wednesday, the Public Health Department received notification of five lab confirmed coronavirus cases , one more probable case and 18 additional people quarantined in Converse County that have been tied to The Waterhole.
Whether a person tests positive or negative, confirmed contacts are required to quarantine 14 days from the last exposure or contact with the positive case.
Anyone that was at The Waterhole bar from September 1st 2020 on, and has symptoms of covid including cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose, sore throat, chills, body aches, headaches, diarrhea, or change to their sense of taste or smell should be tested.
Those experiencing symptoms should contact the COVID-19 Hotline managed by Memorial Hospital of Converse County at (307) 358-7399. 090920
A grocery store in Douglas has been commended by the Douglas Police Department.
At Monday night's Douglas City Council meeting, Chief Todd Byerly recognized Tracy Roush from the Douglas Safeway store...
At Monday night's Douglas City Council meeting, Chief Todd Byerly recognized Tracy Roush from the Douglas Safeway store...
Byerly also recognized Safeway store employees with the Douglas Police Department Community Partner award and a Department challenge coin for their efforts in stopping money scams and fraud. 082620
The federal Bureau of Land Management has approved construction of three corrals to hold more than 8,000 wild horses captured on federal rangeland.
One of the new corrals will be built just off of I-25 at Dwyer Junction north of Wheatland.
It will hold up to 3500 wild horses, and will be the first BLM horse corral in the BLM's High Plains district. The new facility should be holding horses by November.
The pens are the next step in plans announced last year by the administration of President Donald Trump to speed up the capture of 130,000 wild horses over 10 years at an estimated cost of $1 billion.
The new corrals are aimed at accelerating wild horse roundups that have been slowed down for lack of space in existing pens.
The bureau issued final decisions on environmental assessments for corrals in Wyoming, Colorado and Utah. The facilities are generally opposed by wild horse advocates. 082420
One of the new corrals will be built just off of I-25 at Dwyer Junction north of Wheatland.
It will hold up to 3500 wild horses, and will be the first BLM horse corral in the BLM's High Plains district. The new facility should be holding horses by November.
The pens are the next step in plans announced last year by the administration of President Donald Trump to speed up the capture of 130,000 wild horses over 10 years at an estimated cost of $1 billion.
The new corrals are aimed at accelerating wild horse roundups that have been slowed down for lack of space in existing pens.
The bureau issued final decisions on environmental assessments for corrals in Wyoming, Colorado and Utah. The facilities are generally opposed by wild horse advocates. 082420
6,055 votes were cast at Tuesday's primary election in Converse County... that represents at 67 percent voter turnout,
Several elections drew the voters' attention,
At the County level, incumbent county commissioners Rick Grant and Mike Colling were the two top vote getters... Grant with 2122, Colling with 1959. Challenger Cruz VonWald got 1084 votes, and Russ Dalgarn received 902.
Incumbent County Clerk Karen Rimmer wins her first primary election with 1961 votes to Kaci Jo Hladky's 1555. Rimmer was appointed to the job late last year when former Clerk Lucile Taylor retired. Rimmer will advance to the general election.
The City Council race had three candidates for two seats on the council. Challenger Ron McNare got 981 votes... incumbent Karl Herz received 882, and incumbent Monte Gilbresth got 587 votes. In the non-partisan race, up to four candidates could advance to the General election in November, so all three will move ahead.
Glenrock town council, John Moulton got 472, Margaret Nunn got 445... both will advance to the general.
Rolling Hills town council, Bob Sweet got 89 votes, Donna Weaver got 80. Both will advance.
State races, Brian Boner ran unopposed in Senate District 2.
House District three, Converse County voters gave 534 votes to incumbent Eric Barlow, and 125 to challenger Martin Phillips.
HD3 is a multi-county district, so final results will depend on complete totals from all areas represented.
HD4, challenger Jeremy Haroldson of Wheatland upsets incumbent Dan Kirkbride of Chugwater. HD4 represents Platte County and a portion of Converse County. In Converse County voters went 255 for Kirkbride, and 80 for Haroldsen. Haroldson held about a 400-vote edge in Platte County, giving him enough of an edge to take the seat.
In House District 6, incumbent Aaron Clausen got 1542 votes, Camilla Hicks picked up 949. 081820
Several elections drew the voters' attention,
At the County level, incumbent county commissioners Rick Grant and Mike Colling were the two top vote getters... Grant with 2122, Colling with 1959. Challenger Cruz VonWald got 1084 votes, and Russ Dalgarn received 902.
Incumbent County Clerk Karen Rimmer wins her first primary election with 1961 votes to Kaci Jo Hladky's 1555. Rimmer was appointed to the job late last year when former Clerk Lucile Taylor retired. Rimmer will advance to the general election.
The City Council race had three candidates for two seats on the council. Challenger Ron McNare got 981 votes... incumbent Karl Herz received 882, and incumbent Monte Gilbresth got 587 votes. In the non-partisan race, up to four candidates could advance to the General election in November, so all three will move ahead.
Glenrock town council, John Moulton got 472, Margaret Nunn got 445... both will advance to the general.
Rolling Hills town council, Bob Sweet got 89 votes, Donna Weaver got 80. Both will advance.
State races, Brian Boner ran unopposed in Senate District 2.
House District three, Converse County voters gave 534 votes to incumbent Eric Barlow, and 125 to challenger Martin Phillips.
HD3 is a multi-county district, so final results will depend on complete totals from all areas represented.
HD4, challenger Jeremy Haroldson of Wheatland upsets incumbent Dan Kirkbride of Chugwater. HD4 represents Platte County and a portion of Converse County. In Converse County voters went 255 for Kirkbride, and 80 for Haroldsen. Haroldson held about a 400-vote edge in Platte County, giving him enough of an edge to take the seat.
In House District 6, incumbent Aaron Clausen got 1542 votes, Camilla Hicks picked up 949. 081820
Douglas teachers return to class today to prepare for a new school year... whatever it may look like.
Teachers in Converse County School District #1 are in their buildings for staff professional learning this week.
The first day of school for Douglas students is Monday, August 24th. 081720
Teachers in Converse County School District #1 are in their buildings for staff professional learning this week.
The first day of school for Douglas students is Monday, August 24th. 081720
The Wyoming State Fair opens in Douglas next week.
General Manager Courtny Conkle says fairgoers will experience some fun new activities...
General Manager Courtny Conkle says fairgoers will experience some fun new activities...
State Fair activities begin Saturday, with the Cown Horse Show, the Kids and Cars Parade at 10 AM, the WDGA Dairy Goat show, and the Ranch Rodeo and Mutton Bustin' is Saturday night at 5 in the Ford Grandstands Arena.
The Horse Show and Dairy goat show continues on Sunday, the Dutch Oven Cookoff is Sunday morning at 8, Cowboy Church is at 11 AM.
The official Wyoming State Fair opening is this Tuesday, August 11th. 080720
The Horse Show and Dairy goat show continues on Sunday, the Dutch Oven Cookoff is Sunday morning at 8, Cowboy Church is at 11 AM.
The official Wyoming State Fair opening is this Tuesday, August 11th. 080720
When you go shopping next week, be prepared and take a mask.
Starting Monday, Walmarts and Sams Club in Casper and nationwide will require all of its shoppers to wear masks to help decrease the spread of the coronavirus.
Walmart made the announcement Wednesday in response to the recent increase in the number of coronavirus cases across the country.
A number of other national corporations with locations in Wyoming, including Starbucks, Best Buy, Menards, Kohl's and Kroger (which owns Smith's Food and Drug), are also requiring face coverings. 071520
Starting Monday, Walmarts and Sams Club in Casper and nationwide will require all of its shoppers to wear masks to help decrease the spread of the coronavirus.
Walmart made the announcement Wednesday in response to the recent increase in the number of coronavirus cases across the country.
A number of other national corporations with locations in Wyoming, including Starbucks, Best Buy, Menards, Kohl's and Kroger (which owns Smith's Food and Drug), are also requiring face coverings. 071520
Douglas schools are beginning to define what Back-To-School will look like this year.
In a memo to staff and families Monday, District Superintendent Dr Paige Fenton-Hughes said the district is aligning reopening plans to the state requirements, and expects to have classes open on schedule on August 24th.
Fenton-Hughes said that there are several requirements from the state level that CCSD1 will have to implement.
Those requirements include:
Social distancing of six feet
Wearing a face covering when social distancing of six feet is not possible... students and staff will often have to wear facemasks in class
Enhanced hygiene measures including hand washing and cleaning
Staff and students must stay home when sick
Daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19
As well, online adaptive learing that was developed this spring will also be available for students who cannot return to the classroom.
Parents and staff are encouraged to read and understand the back-to-school information posted on the front page of the district website, ccsd1.org. That link is also posted at kktyonline.com. 071420
In a memo to staff and families Monday, District Superintendent Dr Paige Fenton-Hughes said the district is aligning reopening plans to the state requirements, and expects to have classes open on schedule on August 24th.
Fenton-Hughes said that there are several requirements from the state level that CCSD1 will have to implement.
Those requirements include:
Social distancing of six feet
Wearing a face covering when social distancing of six feet is not possible... students and staff will often have to wear facemasks in class
Enhanced hygiene measures including hand washing and cleaning
Staff and students must stay home when sick
Daily screening for symptoms of COVID-19
As well, online adaptive learing that was developed this spring will also be available for students who cannot return to the classroom.
Parents and staff are encouraged to read and understand the back-to-school information posted on the front page of the district website, ccsd1.org. That link is also posted at kktyonline.com. 071420
Firefighters continues to battle a wildfire in Sybille Canyon on Friday.
The Clemons fire began on Wednesday, July 8th, southwest of Wheatland.
Friday morning the fire was at 290 acres, 40 percent contained, burning in grass, sage and scattered timber.
110 firefighters are assigned to the fire. Today there are 4 helitack, 8 engines, 1 hotshot crew, and 1 Type 2 handcrew assisting with operations.
Highway 34 between Bosler and the Platte and Albany County line reopened to traffic both directions at about 9:30 this morning.
Winds are expected to pick up, and a red flag warning is in effect for Friday.
Cause of the fire is still under investigation. 071020
The Clemons fire began on Wednesday, July 8th, southwest of Wheatland.
Friday morning the fire was at 290 acres, 40 percent contained, burning in grass, sage and scattered timber.
110 firefighters are assigned to the fire. Today there are 4 helitack, 8 engines, 1 hotshot crew, and 1 Type 2 handcrew assisting with operations.
Highway 34 between Bosler and the Platte and Albany County line reopened to traffic both directions at about 9:30 this morning.
Winds are expected to pick up, and a red flag warning is in effect for Friday.
Cause of the fire is still under investigation. 071020
Converse County 4H and FFA kids get to show their efforts in the week ahead... the Converse County Fair gets underway this weekend on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas.
Saturday's activities include the 4H dog show at 8am, the cat and pocket pet show at 1pm, the 4H/FFA static interview judging at 2pm, and the 4H fashion review is Saturday night at 6:30pm at the EWC Douglas Campus.
Sunday morning there's the 4D barrel race at 9:30am, the car show and shine is from noon til 4, the exhibit hall is open from 2 til 4pm, and the D Cross County Fair Jackpot roping event is Sunday night at 6.
The Converse County Fair runs through the week, with the 4H/FFA Junior Market Sale next Friday at 4pm in the State Fair Show Center. 071020
Saturday's activities include the 4H dog show at 8am, the cat and pocket pet show at 1pm, the 4H/FFA static interview judging at 2pm, and the 4H fashion review is Saturday night at 6:30pm at the EWC Douglas Campus.
Sunday morning there's the 4D barrel race at 9:30am, the car show and shine is from noon til 4, the exhibit hall is open from 2 til 4pm, and the D Cross County Fair Jackpot roping event is Sunday night at 6.
The Converse County Fair runs through the week, with the 4H/FFA Junior Market Sale next Friday at 4pm in the State Fair Show Center. 071020
No band for the Wyoming State Fair next month.
The band Reckless Kelly had been scheduled to perform on Thursday, August 13th in the Ford Grandstands Arena, but fair officials say the band has cancelled their appearance.
The Wyoming State Fair has added a second night of Wyoming State Fair PRCA Rodeo, with performances scheduled now for Thursday and Friday, August 13th and 14th. 070620
The band Reckless Kelly had been scheduled to perform on Thursday, August 13th in the Ford Grandstands Arena, but fair officials say the band has cancelled their appearance.
The Wyoming State Fair has added a second night of Wyoming State Fair PRCA Rodeo, with performances scheduled now for Thursday and Friday, August 13th and 14th. 070620
The Wheatland Burger King franchise has closed its doors.
The owners said they were at the end of a ten year franchise, and a new franchise agreement would also require a $750 thousand dollar remodel of the store.
The fast-food restaurant just off I-25 closed its doors last Monday, June 29th.
The owners will sell the building. 070620
The owners said they were at the end of a ten year franchise, and a new franchise agreement would also require a $750 thousand dollar remodel of the store.
The fast-food restaurant just off I-25 closed its doors last Monday, June 29th.
The owners will sell the building. 070620
People looking to camp at a Wyoming State Park during the Fourth of July weekend should be aware campsite reservations throughout the state park system are sold out.
Those who already have reservations for the holiday should be aware that some parks, like Glendo and Guernsey, have campfire restrictions.
Recreationists are reminded that possession of fireworks is prohibited at all Wyoming State Parks. 070220
Those who already have reservations for the holiday should be aware that some parks, like Glendo and Guernsey, have campfire restrictions.
Recreationists are reminded that possession of fireworks is prohibited at all Wyoming State Parks. 070220
Converse County farmers and ranchers may have a new source of green fields.
An agricultural firm has secured the permits needed to apply treated water from oil and gas production to arid land in three Wyoming counties.
Encore Green Environmental works with energy companies and ranchers to recycle byproduct water leftover from oil and gas drilling to improve Wyoming’s soil, air and vegetation.
The company initially conducted a pilot project in Pine Bluffs.
The Department of Environmental Quality has extended additional, countywide permits that allow Encore Green to also apply treated and tested uncontaminated water to soil in Laramie, Sublette and Converse counties, as long as the company meets all of the state’s water quality standards and takes regular soil samples, among other provisions.
For every barrel of oil produced, roughly three to six barrels of water come up with it. Some 2.4 billion gallons of produced water is created through oil and gas drilling every day in the U.S.
Under Encore Green’s program, the water will be scientifically tested and treated and reapplied to the surface. The treated water can also be re-used by oil producers for fracking wells. 070120
An agricultural firm has secured the permits needed to apply treated water from oil and gas production to arid land in three Wyoming counties.
Encore Green Environmental works with energy companies and ranchers to recycle byproduct water leftover from oil and gas drilling to improve Wyoming’s soil, air and vegetation.
The company initially conducted a pilot project in Pine Bluffs.
The Department of Environmental Quality has extended additional, countywide permits that allow Encore Green to also apply treated and tested uncontaminated water to soil in Laramie, Sublette and Converse counties, as long as the company meets all of the state’s water quality standards and takes regular soil samples, among other provisions.
For every barrel of oil produced, roughly three to six barrels of water come up with it. Some 2.4 billion gallons of produced water is created through oil and gas drilling every day in the U.S.
Under Encore Green’s program, the water will be scientifically tested and treated and reapplied to the surface. The treated water can also be re-used by oil producers for fracking wells. 070120
The Douglas Water Park opens this Friday.
The water park in Washington Park will be open Tuesday - Saturday from noon-2pm and 3pm-5pm. The water park will be closed for cleaning between 2 and 3pm.
Converse County School District #1 will operate the waterpark this summer.
The splash park will remain closed to allow more deck space to accommodate 6-foot social distancing guidelines. The stairs and deck will be marked for patrons to stand in line for the use of slides to help maintain these guidelines as well.
No concessions will be available.
The Total Park Capacity will be 125 patrons, 95 in the main pool and 14 in the baby pool.
Park admission prices will remain the same as last summer - Adult Season Pass: $45, Youth Season Pass: $15, Adult Day Pass: $3, and Youth Day Pass: $1
061820
The water park in Washington Park will be open Tuesday - Saturday from noon-2pm and 3pm-5pm. The water park will be closed for cleaning between 2 and 3pm.
Converse County School District #1 will operate the waterpark this summer.
The splash park will remain closed to allow more deck space to accommodate 6-foot social distancing guidelines. The stairs and deck will be marked for patrons to stand in line for the use of slides to help maintain these guidelines as well.
No concessions will be available.
The Total Park Capacity will be 125 patrons, 95 in the main pool and 14 in the baby pool.
Park admission prices will remain the same as last summer - Adult Season Pass: $45, Youth Season Pass: $15, Adult Day Pass: $3, and Youth Day Pass: $1
061820
A former Douglas mayor has died.
Jim Schneider served as a Douglas City Council Member from 1995-2002 and mayor of the City of Douglas from 2007-2009.
He also served as a Converse County commissioner, and owned the Oasis Bar and the This & That Shop.
Jim Schneider lived in Maricopa, Arizona. He died on June 10th in Denver. Funeral services and burial will be in his hometown of Leflor, North Dakota.
Jim Schneider was 88. 061820
Jim Schneider served as a Douglas City Council Member from 1995-2002 and mayor of the City of Douglas from 2007-2009.
He also served as a Converse County commissioner, and owned the Oasis Bar and the This & That Shop.
Jim Schneider lived in Maricopa, Arizona. He died on June 10th in Denver. Funeral services and burial will be in his hometown of Leflor, North Dakota.
Jim Schneider was 88. 061820
A partial fire ban is now in effect for Converse County.
Dry summer weather and a high fuel load creates a higher fire danger, and the Converse County Commissioners passed the partial ban during their meeting on Tuesday.
The ban prohibits open fires, but still allows gas and charcoal fires in enclosed grills.
The ban went into effect across Converse County on Wednesday, June 17, 2020, and will remain in effect until 12:00 a.m. on October 15th. 061820
Dry summer weather and a high fuel load creates a higher fire danger, and the Converse County Commissioners passed the partial ban during their meeting on Tuesday.
The ban prohibits open fires, but still allows gas and charcoal fires in enclosed grills.
The ban went into effect across Converse County on Wednesday, June 17, 2020, and will remain in effect until 12:00 a.m. on October 15th. 061820
The Independence Day holiday is now just a couple of weeks away, and fireworks will light the skies over Casper and Douglas on the 4th.
The Casper Events Center says the show from their parking lot will go off as usual, but this year’s event will not include the traditional festival and there will be no parking or access to the Casper Events Center Parking Lot. We instead encourage the community to watch from afar in a responsible socially distanced manner.
The Douglas Volunteer Fire Department says they'll fire off their show as they do every year from the Douglas High School parking lot, and with music for the Boomin' 4th of July Celebration broadcast on KKTY's 100.1 FM.
No fireworks at Glenrock this year.
As reported in the Glenrock Independent, the Glenrock Volunteer Fire Department wasn't sure that they could control the crowds at the Glenrock South Rec Complex in accordance with state COVID-19 restrictions, so they've opted to cancel the fireworks show this year. 061820
The Casper Events Center says the show from their parking lot will go off as usual, but this year’s event will not include the traditional festival and there will be no parking or access to the Casper Events Center Parking Lot. We instead encourage the community to watch from afar in a responsible socially distanced manner.
The Douglas Volunteer Fire Department says they'll fire off their show as they do every year from the Douglas High School parking lot, and with music for the Boomin' 4th of July Celebration broadcast on KKTY's 100.1 FM.
No fireworks at Glenrock this year.
As reported in the Glenrock Independent, the Glenrock Volunteer Fire Department wasn't sure that they could control the crowds at the Glenrock South Rec Complex in accordance with state COVID-19 restrictions, so they've opted to cancel the fireworks show this year. 061820
A new park for dogs and their people will celebrate its grand opening this afternoon.
The Marge Irons Memorial Dog Park at Bartling Park in Douglas will hold a ribbon cutting today at 3pm.
The City will be honoring Randy Tobler for the property donation, Wyoming Community Gas for the grant funding, and Blend Coffee Co. will be providing pupachinos!
The public is invited to come celebrate. The Marge Irons Memorial Dog Park is off Jefferson Street, south of Blend Coffee and OReilly Auto Parts. 061720
The Marge Irons Memorial Dog Park at Bartling Park in Douglas will hold a ribbon cutting today at 3pm.
The City will be honoring Randy Tobler for the property donation, Wyoming Community Gas for the grant funding, and Blend Coffee Co. will be providing pupachinos!
The public is invited to come celebrate. The Marge Irons Memorial Dog Park is off Jefferson Street, south of Blend Coffee and OReilly Auto Parts. 061720
Wyoming will further loosen coronavirus restrictions to allow schools to reopen and people to gather in larger numbers indoors.
Gov. Mark Gordon announced the measures Wednesday.
Starting this Monday, June 15th, up to 250 people will be allowed to gather indoors if they practice social distancing and sanitation measures.
Up to 50 people may gather indoors without such measures.
The updated orders also permit parades to occur (with appropriate social distancing), and allow K-12 schools, community colleges, the University, and other educational institutions to reopen facilities and resume in-person instruction for all students.
Faith-based gatherings such as church services and funeral homes are exempted from the new orders and allowed to operate without restrictions, with appropriate social distancing encouraged.
Updates allow childcare facilities to resume normal operations without restrictions on class sizes, and expands the permitted size of group fitness classes to 50 participants. Public Health Orders no longer require personal care services to operate by appointment only. 061120
Gov. Mark Gordon announced the measures Wednesday.
Starting this Monday, June 15th, up to 250 people will be allowed to gather indoors if they practice social distancing and sanitation measures.
Up to 50 people may gather indoors without such measures.
The updated orders also permit parades to occur (with appropriate social distancing), and allow K-12 schools, community colleges, the University, and other educational institutions to reopen facilities and resume in-person instruction for all students.
Faith-based gatherings such as church services and funeral homes are exempted from the new orders and allowed to operate without restrictions, with appropriate social distancing encouraged.
Updates allow childcare facilities to resume normal operations without restrictions on class sizes, and expands the permitted size of group fitness classes to 50 participants. Public Health Orders no longer require personal care services to operate by appointment only. 061120
The Douglas hospital is making some operational changes.
It's been more than five weeks since Converse County has had a new confirmed COVID-19 case, and Memorial Hospital of Converse County is making a couple of adjustments.
The hospital is no longer screening patients at the door. Screening questions will now be asked at the point of registration.
The hospital's Ambassadors are back to work and the Care Ride program is running again.
And the Arbor Cafe and Mocha Molly's are open again to the public. 061120
It's been more than five weeks since Converse County has had a new confirmed COVID-19 case, and Memorial Hospital of Converse County is making a couple of adjustments.
The hospital is no longer screening patients at the door. Screening questions will now be asked at the point of registration.
The hospital's Ambassadors are back to work and the Care Ride program is running again.
And the Arbor Cafe and Mocha Molly's are open again to the public. 061120
A couple of health exceptions have been approved and signed for Douglas activities.
One exception will allow the Douglas Water Park to open for community use. A maximum of 125 people would be allowed in the pool area, and the state says families will still have to maintain the six-foot separation as much as possible.
A second exception has been issues that will allow Joyful Living Massage and Wellness to begin using their one-person infrared sauna.
Both the Waterpark and Joyful Living presented plans to operate safely within the State Health officer's COVID-19 guidelines. 061020
One exception will allow the Douglas Water Park to open for community use. A maximum of 125 people would be allowed in the pool area, and the state says families will still have to maintain the six-foot separation as much as possible.
A second exception has been issues that will allow Joyful Living Massage and Wellness to begin using their one-person infrared sauna.
Both the Waterpark and Joyful Living presented plans to operate safely within the State Health officer's COVID-19 guidelines. 061020
EOG Resources executives say a faster, but uneven, oil recovery is emerging, with more production taken offline in the last couple of months than anticipated, and demand returning at a quicker pace than previously believed as much of the global economy reopens amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Kenneth Boedeker, EOG's executive vice president of exploration and production, says the firm plans to bring much of its shut-in production back online during the third quarter after removing an estimated 125,000 b/d of crude oil in May.
But, as more producers bring additional volumes back online, that will mean more ups and downs in the eventual oil price recovery.
EOG officals said consolidation in the industry is inevitable after the crash, and they're looking at acquisitions in the Permian Basin, South Texas' Eagle Ford shale, and the Powder River Basin of eastern Wyoming. 060420
Kenneth Boedeker, EOG's executive vice president of exploration and production, says the firm plans to bring much of its shut-in production back online during the third quarter after removing an estimated 125,000 b/d of crude oil in May.
But, as more producers bring additional volumes back online, that will mean more ups and downs in the eventual oil price recovery.
EOG officals said consolidation in the industry is inevitable after the crash, and they're looking at acquisitions in the Permian Basin, South Texas' Eagle Ford shale, and the Powder River Basin of eastern Wyoming. 060420
Casper police said a crowd of about 300 demonstrators gathered Wednesday afternoon to silently march and then make speeches in downtown Casper to protest of the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer.
The protesters began marching at noon and officially dispersed shortly before 1 p.m. The gathering remained peaceful.
Police maintained a strong presence but did not interfere with the rally.
Casper Police Chief Keith McPheeters addressed demonstrators prior to the march. He said that Floyd should not have died and told the crowd that officers were there to protect the demonstrators and shepherd them to the police station.
After the official march ended at 12:55 Wednesday afternoon, an additional group of protesters marched out Second Street to Wyoming Boulevard and blocked the intersection at Second Street and Wyoming Blvd. Casper Youth For Change, the group that organized the main march, said that they were not affiliated with these marchers, and asked that they disperse.
One accident happened during the march when a pickup hit one of the median barriers in front of Wyoming Medical Center, jumped the curb and ended up in Conwell Park. Three people were hospitalized with minor injuries.
Casper Police did not issue any citations during Wednesday's marches, which had largely concluded by 7pm. 060420
The protesters began marching at noon and officially dispersed shortly before 1 p.m. The gathering remained peaceful.
Police maintained a strong presence but did not interfere with the rally.
Casper Police Chief Keith McPheeters addressed demonstrators prior to the march. He said that Floyd should not have died and told the crowd that officers were there to protect the demonstrators and shepherd them to the police station.
After the official march ended at 12:55 Wednesday afternoon, an additional group of protesters marched out Second Street to Wyoming Boulevard and blocked the intersection at Second Street and Wyoming Blvd. Casper Youth For Change, the group that organized the main march, said that they were not affiliated with these marchers, and asked that they disperse.
One accident happened during the march when a pickup hit one of the median barriers in front of Wyoming Medical Center, jumped the curb and ended up in Conwell Park. Three people were hospitalized with minor injuries.
Casper Police did not issue any citations during Wednesday's marches, which had largely concluded by 7pm. 060420
Two Douglas residents died in a one-vehicle rollover on Highway 59 south of Wright.
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers were dispatched Tuesday night at around 8:45 PM.
A 2002 GMC Yukon was southbound on 59. It went off the right side of the roadway, the driver overcorrected and it overturned.
The driver has been identified as 27-year-old Douglas resident Paul E. Borring. The passenger in the vehicle has been identified as 27-year-old Douglas resident Teala S. Sherard.
Borring and Sherard were not wearing seatbelts and died at the scene of the crash.
Two juvenile passengers in the vehicle were properly restrained and transported to the Campbell County Memorial Hospital in Gillette for injuries sustained in the crash.
Alcohol or drug use is being investigated as possible contributing factors. 060420
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers were dispatched Tuesday night at around 8:45 PM.
A 2002 GMC Yukon was southbound on 59. It went off the right side of the roadway, the driver overcorrected and it overturned.
The driver has been identified as 27-year-old Douglas resident Paul E. Borring. The passenger in the vehicle has been identified as 27-year-old Douglas resident Teala S. Sherard.
Borring and Sherard were not wearing seatbelts and died at the scene of the crash.
Two juvenile passengers in the vehicle were properly restrained and transported to the Campbell County Memorial Hospital in Gillette for injuries sustained in the crash.
Alcohol or drug use is being investigated as possible contributing factors. 060420
The Wyoming Pioneer Museum is reopening its doors to the public.
The museum on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas will be open Fridays and Saturdays from 8am-4pm, beginning this weekend. They'll expand their hours as staffing allows in the following weeks.
There is a new social distancing route thru the Museum that visitors will be required to follow. 10 people at a time will be allowed in the building, with 15 minutes time between groups or individuals. Staff and volunteers will be wearing masks. If guests prefer to wear a masks, staff asks you to bring your own masks as they don't have extras to hand out. 052920
The museum on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas will be open Fridays and Saturdays from 8am-4pm, beginning this weekend. They'll expand their hours as staffing allows in the following weeks.
There is a new social distancing route thru the Museum that visitors will be required to follow. 10 people at a time will be allowed in the building, with 15 minutes time between groups or individuals. Staff and volunteers will be wearing masks. If guests prefer to wear a masks, staff asks you to bring your own masks as they don't have extras to hand out. 052920
The Wyoming Department of Transportation will host a public open house from 5:30 – 7 p.m., Wednesday, May 27 to present information on the upcoming reconstruction project on Brownfield Road and Robin Lane in Douglas. The open house will be held at the WYDOT Douglas office at the Highway Department complex near I-25 and East Richards at 50 Orin Way.
This ia a joint city/county/state project.
It will include a complete reconstruction of Brownfield Road from East Richards south to Robin Lane, and Robin Lane across the tracks to La Bonte Road.
The project includes new pavement, curb and gutter, new storm drain and sewer and a new sidewalk on the east side of Brownfield Road for much of the project length. It also includes reconstruction of the railroad crossing on Robin Lane.
During construction, traffic will be reduced to one lane of traffic on Brownfield Road. There will also be a temporary closure of Robin Lane during the reconstruction of the railroad crossing.
The project is scheduled for contract letting in July with a completion date of Oct. 31, 2021.
Funding for the $3 million dollar project comes from money WYDOT provides annually to municipalities plus funds from both the City of Douglas and Converse County.
There is no formal presentation so members of the public may attend the meeting anytime during the meeting time.
Due to the Corona virus pandemic, officials will be using accepted social distancing practices and we ask that those attending do so as well and wear masks. 052620
This ia a joint city/county/state project.
It will include a complete reconstruction of Brownfield Road from East Richards south to Robin Lane, and Robin Lane across the tracks to La Bonte Road.
The project includes new pavement, curb and gutter, new storm drain and sewer and a new sidewalk on the east side of Brownfield Road for much of the project length. It also includes reconstruction of the railroad crossing on Robin Lane.
During construction, traffic will be reduced to one lane of traffic on Brownfield Road. There will also be a temporary closure of Robin Lane during the reconstruction of the railroad crossing.
The project is scheduled for contract letting in July with a completion date of Oct. 31, 2021.
Funding for the $3 million dollar project comes from money WYDOT provides annually to municipalities plus funds from both the City of Douglas and Converse County.
There is no formal presentation so members of the public may attend the meeting anytime during the meeting time.
Due to the Corona virus pandemic, officials will be using accepted social distancing practices and we ask that those attending do so as well and wear masks. 052620
Wyoming’s unemployment rate more than doubled to 9.2% in April amid an energy-market downturn and measures to control the coronavirus.
Wyoming’s unemployment was 3.8% in March.
State officials first ordered the shutdown of businesses and schools and restricted public gatherings to limit the spread of the coronavirus in mid-March.
A sharp drop in oil prices due to the coronavirus and an international price war also took a toll on Wyoming’s economy.
Non-farm payroll employment in Wyoming in April fell by 26,000 to 263,000.
Wyoming's unemployment rate was nonetheless fifth-lowest in the U.S. in April. 052420
Wyoming’s unemployment was 3.8% in March.
State officials first ordered the shutdown of businesses and schools and restricted public gatherings to limit the spread of the coronavirus in mid-March.
A sharp drop in oil prices due to the coronavirus and an international price war also took a toll on Wyoming’s economy.
Non-farm payroll employment in Wyoming in April fell by 26,000 to 263,000.
Wyoming's unemployment rate was nonetheless fifth-lowest in the U.S. in April. 052420
Today is National Peace Officers Memorial Day.
The annual Wyoming Peace Officer Memorial ceremonies that were scheduled for today at the Law Enforcement Academy here in Douglas have moved online for this year.
The ceremony will be posted on the Academy's Facebook page as well as their website, wleacademy.com.
The public is invited to post a brief message, photo, or video in tribute to these fallen officers on the Facebook page. Please tag and use the hashtag #WYPeaceOfficerMemorial.
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has ordered flags to be flown at half staff from sunrise to sunset today in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day. 051520
The annual Wyoming Peace Officer Memorial ceremonies that were scheduled for today at the Law Enforcement Academy here in Douglas have moved online for this year.
The ceremony will be posted on the Academy's Facebook page as well as their website, wleacademy.com.
The public is invited to post a brief message, photo, or video in tribute to these fallen officers on the Facebook page. Please tag and use the hashtag #WYPeaceOfficerMemorial.
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has ordered flags to be flown at half staff from sunrise to sunset today in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day. 051520
The US Forest Service has released the final environmental impact statement to amend the Thunder Basin National Grassland Land and Resource Management Plan.
The proposed amendment will address the management of black-tailed prairie dog colonies on the Grasslands north of Douglas to allow federal land managers to respond to a variety of environmental and social conditions on the grassland.
The analysis include viability of at-risk wildlife species, recovery of the endangered black-footed ferret, forage for permitted livestock, prairie dog encroachment onto private and state lands, and social and economic issues.
The amendment is expected to be finalized in late 2020. 051520
The proposed amendment will address the management of black-tailed prairie dog colonies on the Grasslands north of Douglas to allow federal land managers to respond to a variety of environmental and social conditions on the grassland.
The analysis include viability of at-risk wildlife species, recovery of the endangered black-footed ferret, forage for permitted livestock, prairie dog encroachment onto private and state lands, and social and economic issues.
The amendment is expected to be finalized in late 2020. 051520
A utility-scale solar farm project has received state permit approval to build, and now awaits county approval.
The proposed solar energy project by Dinosolar LLC, include plans to construct a 240-megawatt, commercial solar photovoltaic system on 1.8 square miles of leased land west of Bar Nunn in Natrona County.
The solar energy farm would be the largest in Wyoming.
The company says the project would generate enough energy to provide power to 51,700 Wyoming homes. 051420
The proposed solar energy project by Dinosolar LLC, include plans to construct a 240-megawatt, commercial solar photovoltaic system on 1.8 square miles of leased land west of Bar Nunn in Natrona County.
The solar energy farm would be the largest in Wyoming.
The company says the project would generate enough energy to provide power to 51,700 Wyoming homes. 051420
Douglas and Glenrock restaurants and bars can welcome back their customers.
The Converse County Public Health Department received a signed variance from the Wyoming State Health Officer Saturday afternoon that will allow both indoor and outdoor seating at restaurants, bars, clubs, cafes, coffeehouses and other places service food and beverages.
Restrictions are similar to other such variances, requiring all customers to be seated at tables or booths, parties no larger than six persons, at least six foot separation from other tables.
Business owners and managers should familiarize themselves with all of the rules and regulations before reopening their businesses.
The variance is effective immediately. 050920
The Converse County Public Health Department received a signed variance from the Wyoming State Health Officer Saturday afternoon that will allow both indoor and outdoor seating at restaurants, bars, clubs, cafes, coffeehouses and other places service food and beverages.
Restrictions are similar to other such variances, requiring all customers to be seated at tables or booths, parties no larger than six persons, at least six foot separation from other tables.
Business owners and managers should familiarize themselves with all of the rules and regulations before reopening their businesses.
The variance is effective immediately. 050920
More than half of Douglas residents have responded to the US Census.
The Government's once-every-decade population count determines federal funding for a variety of programs.
The Census Bureau says almost 55 percent of Douglas residents have participated in the count. 67 percent of Rolling Hills residents are in. Just 20 percent of Glenrock has checked in.
61 percent of Casper residents have self-reported.
The count for the US Census is still underway. If you haven't been counted yet, go to the website 2020census.gov. 050820
The Government's once-every-decade population count determines federal funding for a variety of programs.
The Census Bureau says almost 55 percent of Douglas residents have participated in the count. 67 percent of Rolling Hills residents are in. Just 20 percent of Glenrock has checked in.
61 percent of Casper residents have self-reported.
The count for the US Census is still underway. If you haven't been counted yet, go to the website 2020census.gov. 050820
Natrona and Converse county non-profit organizations will receive grants from the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund, administered by the Wyoming Community Foundation.
Among the agencies receiving grants are Central Wyoming Hospice, Child Development Center of Natrona County, Natrona County Meals on Wheels, Restoration Church, Wyoming Food for Thought in Natrona County and the Boys and Girls Club of Douglas in Converse County.
Donations from individuals throughout the state have made possible more than $123 thousand dollars in grants to 30 different Wyoming non-profit groups in the last four weeks. 050820
Among the agencies receiving grants are Central Wyoming Hospice, Child Development Center of Natrona County, Natrona County Meals on Wheels, Restoration Church, Wyoming Food for Thought in Natrona County and the Boys and Girls Club of Douglas in Converse County.
Donations from individuals throughout the state have made possible more than $123 thousand dollars in grants to 30 different Wyoming non-profit groups in the last four weeks. 050820
Another option for Douglas and Glenrock restaurants.
Converse County got its first public health variance from the State of Wyoming this morning.
This variance will allow on-premises outdoor food and beverage service at any bar or restaurant.
Patrons must be seated at tables or booths, tables must be limited to groups of six, preferably of the same household, and tables must be set so that patrons are at least six feet apart from other tables when seated.
Bar and restaurant owners and managers should become familiar with all of the regulations for outdoor service in the variance before beginning service.
The variance goes into effect across Converse County immediately. 050720
Converse County got its first public health variance from the State of Wyoming this morning.
This variance will allow on-premises outdoor food and beverage service at any bar or restaurant.
Patrons must be seated at tables or booths, tables must be limited to groups of six, preferably of the same household, and tables must be set so that patrons are at least six feet apart from other tables when seated.
Bar and restaurant owners and managers should become familiar with all of the regulations for outdoor service in the variance before beginning service.
The variance goes into effect across Converse County immediately. 050720
Class of 2020 this Sunday on the DHS Football Field.
Ceremony 1 will begin at 10:00 am (students with last name A - J).
Ceremony 2 will begin at 2:00 pm (students with last name K- Z).
In order to watch the ceremonies from the parking lot north of the field, you must have a ticket. Space is limited and designated to graduate families only.
The grandstands will NOT be open, and the only place to watch the ceremonies from is the northside parking.
Graduate family parking on Logsdon Ln. opposite the press box will open at Sunday morning at 9:00 am for Ceremony 1 and Sunday afternoon at 1:00 pm for Ceremony 2. Due to social distancing guidelines and limited space, we ask that you please remain on or in your vehicle during the ceremony (please remain next to your vehicle during the National Anthem).
Graduation ceremonies will be broadcast over the stadium speakers at Bearcat Stadium, will be broadcast live on KKTY's 100.1FM, and the school district will have drones up and is working out the details to be able to live stream the two events on CCSD1's Facebook page.
There will also be a Graduation Parade from 4:30-5:30 pm at the old Speedway.
Parents, family, friends, and community members enter the speedway at 4:30 pm on the west end near the floral shop on Richards St. to "Drive Through" and congratulate the Class of 2020, who'll be parked along the racetrack.
Remember to remain in your vehicles during the drive through parade. Spectators will then exit out the east end of the track onto Richards St.
Law enforcement and staff will slowly keep the traffic moving through the students. Please honk, wave, and cheer for these amazing young adults.
The School District is also planning on recording the parade with the drones but may not be able to live stream it due to limited WiFi capabilities at the speedway. 050420
Ceremony 1 will begin at 10:00 am (students with last name A - J).
Ceremony 2 will begin at 2:00 pm (students with last name K- Z).
In order to watch the ceremonies from the parking lot north of the field, you must have a ticket. Space is limited and designated to graduate families only.
The grandstands will NOT be open, and the only place to watch the ceremonies from is the northside parking.
Graduate family parking on Logsdon Ln. opposite the press box will open at Sunday morning at 9:00 am for Ceremony 1 and Sunday afternoon at 1:00 pm for Ceremony 2. Due to social distancing guidelines and limited space, we ask that you please remain on or in your vehicle during the ceremony (please remain next to your vehicle during the National Anthem).
Graduation ceremonies will be broadcast over the stadium speakers at Bearcat Stadium, will be broadcast live on KKTY's 100.1FM, and the school district will have drones up and is working out the details to be able to live stream the two events on CCSD1's Facebook page.
There will also be a Graduation Parade from 4:30-5:30 pm at the old Speedway.
Parents, family, friends, and community members enter the speedway at 4:30 pm on the west end near the floral shop on Richards St. to "Drive Through" and congratulate the Class of 2020, who'll be parked along the racetrack.
Remember to remain in your vehicles during the drive through parade. Spectators will then exit out the east end of the track onto Richards St.
Law enforcement and staff will slowly keep the traffic moving through the students. Please honk, wave, and cheer for these amazing young adults.
The School District is also planning on recording the parade with the drones but may not be able to live stream it due to limited WiFi capabilities at the speedway. 050420
Wyoming schools will remain closed for at least another two weeks.
Governor Mark Gordon announced Tuesday afternoon that new public health orders effective May 1 will extend the current closure until Monday, May 18th. The latest order says no in-person classes for K-12, colleges, universities and trade schools. Limited exceptions for individual students may be granted. Teachers and staff will be allowed to work inside of school buildings, and food prep will still be allowed.
The new rules also loosen up restaurant regulations. While on-premises consumption and sit-down dining is still forbidden, the latest orders allow up to five persons inside a restaurant for pick-up and take-out orders, as long as those individuals remain at least six feet apart.
The new public health orders will allow gyms, barber shops, hair salons and other personal care services to reopen on May 1 with limits on the number of patrons in the facility, a requirement that staff wear face coverings, and the closure of locker rooms. Gyms are also prohibited from offering one-on-one personal training and group classes.
This order will allow child care centers and home day cares to reopen under restrictions that include limiting groups of people to fewer than 10 per room and implementing screening and cleaning protocols.
The Department of Health has also issued updated guidance to hospitals and health care providers outlining how they can resume elective surgeries. That is effective immediately.
Public health order Number 2 limiting public gatherings to 10 persons or fewer has been extended through May 15. While not listing any activities directly, the 10-person rule will continue to affect schools and churches, concerts and sporting events, among others.
The Governor’s directive requiring any individual coming to Wyoming to self-quarantine for 14 days remains in place through April 30. An extension to the directive is currently under review, with a decision expected tomorrow.
Each statewide order has a provision allowing county health officers to submit requests for countywide variances from those orders if the public health conditions in the county warrant the change. The goal is to provide a measure of flexibility in recognition of the fact that public health conditions can vary greatly from county to county in Wyoming. 042920
Governor Mark Gordon announced Tuesday afternoon that new public health orders effective May 1 will extend the current closure until Monday, May 18th. The latest order says no in-person classes for K-12, colleges, universities and trade schools. Limited exceptions for individual students may be granted. Teachers and staff will be allowed to work inside of school buildings, and food prep will still be allowed.
The new rules also loosen up restaurant regulations. While on-premises consumption and sit-down dining is still forbidden, the latest orders allow up to five persons inside a restaurant for pick-up and take-out orders, as long as those individuals remain at least six feet apart.
The new public health orders will allow gyms, barber shops, hair salons and other personal care services to reopen on May 1 with limits on the number of patrons in the facility, a requirement that staff wear face coverings, and the closure of locker rooms. Gyms are also prohibited from offering one-on-one personal training and group classes.
This order will allow child care centers and home day cares to reopen under restrictions that include limiting groups of people to fewer than 10 per room and implementing screening and cleaning protocols.
The Department of Health has also issued updated guidance to hospitals and health care providers outlining how they can resume elective surgeries. That is effective immediately.
Public health order Number 2 limiting public gatherings to 10 persons or fewer has been extended through May 15. While not listing any activities directly, the 10-person rule will continue to affect schools and churches, concerts and sporting events, among others.
The Governor’s directive requiring any individual coming to Wyoming to self-quarantine for 14 days remains in place through April 30. An extension to the directive is currently under review, with a decision expected tomorrow.
Each statewide order has a provision allowing county health officers to submit requests for countywide variances from those orders if the public health conditions in the county warrant the change. The goal is to provide a measure of flexibility in recognition of the fact that public health conditions can vary greatly from county to county in Wyoming. 042920
Three hundred miners and other workers were laid off Thursday as the Powder River Basin coal industry struggles with diminished electricity use during the coronavirus pandemic.
St. Louis-based Peabody Energy announced Thursday it is laying off 170 at the North Antelope Rochelle mine just north of the Converse/Campbell County line. North Antelope is Wyoming’s largest coal mine,.
Navajo Transitional Energy Company says 73 workers at the Spring Creek mine, north of Sheridan at Decker, Montana, and 57 at the Antelope mine in Converse and Campbell County are losing their jobs.
Both companies cited economic conditions and declining coal demand.
NTEC, a Navajo Nation company, acquired its two mines from Gillette-based Cloud Peak Energy in a 2019 bankruptcy sale.
Peabody said its reductions are effective immediately and all impacted employees have been offered a separation package, outplacement services and support from the employee assistance program. 042420
St. Louis-based Peabody Energy announced Thursday it is laying off 170 at the North Antelope Rochelle mine just north of the Converse/Campbell County line. North Antelope is Wyoming’s largest coal mine,.
Navajo Transitional Energy Company says 73 workers at the Spring Creek mine, north of Sheridan at Decker, Montana, and 57 at the Antelope mine in Converse and Campbell County are losing their jobs.
Both companies cited economic conditions and declining coal demand.
NTEC, a Navajo Nation company, acquired its two mines from Gillette-based Cloud Peak Energy in a 2019 bankruptcy sale.
Peabody said its reductions are effective immediately and all impacted employees have been offered a separation package, outplacement services and support from the employee assistance program. 042420
No word on the future for Douglas and Glenrock schools.
In a press release Thursday afternoon, Converse County Public Health said School Districts 1 and 2 are working together with Public Health and the Converse County Health Officer to consider plans for the rest of this school year and into the near future.
Following guidance from Governor Mark Gordon and the Wyoming Department of Health, modifications to current plans will be considered based on the data for our county, not dates.
Public Health says they are awaiting further guidance from governing bodies and will work to create plans as soon as possible.
However, at this time, CC Public Health says they are not considering a return to pre-COVID “school as usual,” and schools will remain totally closed under the statewide orders through May 1.
More information as it becomes available. 042420
In a press release Thursday afternoon, Converse County Public Health said School Districts 1 and 2 are working together with Public Health and the Converse County Health Officer to consider plans for the rest of this school year and into the near future.
Following guidance from Governor Mark Gordon and the Wyoming Department of Health, modifications to current plans will be considered based on the data for our county, not dates.
Public Health says they are awaiting further guidance from governing bodies and will work to create plans as soon as possible.
However, at this time, CC Public Health says they are not considering a return to pre-COVID “school as usual,” and schools will remain totally closed under the statewide orders through May 1.
More information as it becomes available. 042420
Farm walls are small, vertical growing systems that don’t require soil.
These living walls date back to the ancient hanging gardens of Babylon.
Their small footprint allows food to be grown and harvested within city limits and crowded urban areas, offering another option for bringing fresh produce to more people.
And the Douglas and Glenrock branches of the Converse County library will each get a farm wall.
The Wyoming Business Council awarded 13 Farm Wall grants in seven Wyoming communities in early April.
Grant recipients will partner with local venues to showcase the farm walls as living art and engage with visitors and residents to educate them about growing food in town.
Participants must also work to build enough community support and capacity to carry the project on after the two-year grant cycle is complete. 042220
These living walls date back to the ancient hanging gardens of Babylon.
Their small footprint allows food to be grown and harvested within city limits and crowded urban areas, offering another option for bringing fresh produce to more people.
And the Douglas and Glenrock branches of the Converse County library will each get a farm wall.
The Wyoming Business Council awarded 13 Farm Wall grants in seven Wyoming communities in early April.
Grant recipients will partner with local venues to showcase the farm walls as living art and engage with visitors and residents to educate them about growing food in town.
Participants must also work to build enough community support and capacity to carry the project on after the two-year grant cycle is complete. 042220
Converse County has a 9th confirmed corona virus case.
The Converse County Public Health Department announced Sunday morning that the new COVID19 case is a Douglas woman in her 60s. The woman is recuperating at home.
Upon completion of the contact investigation, it was determined that the positive case is an employee of Safeway in Douglas. The client had very limited contact with the public on April 13th and 14th. At this time risk to the public is deemed to be low. Safeway has been notified and are enacting the following steps:
-A 3rd party cleaning company will be brought in tonight to thoroughly clean and sanitize the entire store.
-Prior to this positive case, Safeway had instituted a policy of cleaning and sanitizing the store every 3 hours; the front registers are cleaned and sanitized every hour.
- Safeway has implemented employee health checks.
-All employees had been directed to wear a face covering at all times while in the store
-Working in conjunction with Converse County Public Health to identify any close contacts among employees and follow quarantine guidelines for those individuals.
As a reminder, please continue to wear face coverings or masks when in public, maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet, wash or sanitize your hands and personal items often, and only go out for essential needs. 042020
The Converse County Public Health Department announced Sunday morning that the new COVID19 case is a Douglas woman in her 60s. The woman is recuperating at home.
Upon completion of the contact investigation, it was determined that the positive case is an employee of Safeway in Douglas. The client had very limited contact with the public on April 13th and 14th. At this time risk to the public is deemed to be low. Safeway has been notified and are enacting the following steps:
-A 3rd party cleaning company will be brought in tonight to thoroughly clean and sanitize the entire store.
-Prior to this positive case, Safeway had instituted a policy of cleaning and sanitizing the store every 3 hours; the front registers are cleaned and sanitized every hour.
- Safeway has implemented employee health checks.
-All employees had been directed to wear a face covering at all times while in the store
-Working in conjunction with Converse County Public Health to identify any close contacts among employees and follow quarantine guidelines for those individuals.
As a reminder, please continue to wear face coverings or masks when in public, maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet, wash or sanitize your hands and personal items often, and only go out for essential needs. 042020
Douglas High School Prom is officially cancelled.
In a post to Students and Parents Thursday evening, DHS administration said that due to the continuing influence of COVID-19, they are not able to predict when it will be safe to host an event such as this.
The administration at Douglas High School promotes students having these opportunities to make high school memorable. They understand that many parents and students have made plans, bought dresses, and rented tuxes to forever remember this night.
Administration said that their highest priority is ensuring the health and safety of our students.
Douglas High School graduation is still on the school calendar for Sunday, May 10th. No word on what that might look like, yet. 041720
In a post to Students and Parents Thursday evening, DHS administration said that due to the continuing influence of COVID-19, they are not able to predict when it will be safe to host an event such as this.
The administration at Douglas High School promotes students having these opportunities to make high school memorable. They understand that many parents and students have made plans, bought dresses, and rented tuxes to forever remember this night.
Administration said that their highest priority is ensuring the health and safety of our students.
Douglas High School graduation is still on the school calendar for Sunday, May 10th. No word on what that might look like, yet. 041720
The Douglas hospital is adjusting its visitation rules.
As they continue to deal with COVID-19 health issues, Memorial Hospital has instituted several new rules regarding who gets into the building.
MHCC's Emergency Department is considered a high-risk area, and is now off limits to visitors. Family members will be asked to wait in the waiting room outside of emergency.
No visitors will be permitted on the third floor of the hospital,, where patients with COVID-19, or those suspected to have COVID-19, are treated.
Mothers in active labor will be permitted to have one guest with them throughout labor and delivery. The guest will not be permitted to come and go from the hospital, and must remain in the hospital throughout the delivery process.
During ultrasound appointments, expectant mothers will not be permitted to have anyone in the ultrasound room during the exam.
Memorial Hospital continues to operate their COVID-19 Hotline for patients with questions or concerns about their symptoms. The Hotline Number in Douglas is 358-7399. 040820
As they continue to deal with COVID-19 health issues, Memorial Hospital has instituted several new rules regarding who gets into the building.
MHCC's Emergency Department is considered a high-risk area, and is now off limits to visitors. Family members will be asked to wait in the waiting room outside of emergency.
No visitors will be permitted on the third floor of the hospital,, where patients with COVID-19, or those suspected to have COVID-19, are treated.
Mothers in active labor will be permitted to have one guest with them throughout labor and delivery. The guest will not be permitted to come and go from the hospital, and must remain in the hospital throughout the delivery process.
During ultrasound appointments, expectant mothers will not be permitted to have anyone in the ultrasound room during the exam.
Memorial Hospital continues to operate their COVID-19 Hotline for patients with questions or concerns about their symptoms. The Hotline Number in Douglas is 358-7399. 040820
A Mills man died early Wednesday morning in a one-car rollover on the old Glenrock Highway west of Glenrock.
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers were called out just before 5am to mile marker 167 on Highway 20/26, where th driver of a 2004 Cadillac CTS failed to negotiate a slight curve, overcorrected and rolled.
The patrol says the driver, 33-year-old Mills resident Colbey J. Emms, was not wearing a seatbelt and died of his injuries at the scene of the crash.
Driver inattention is being investigated as a possible contributing factor. 040820
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers were called out just before 5am to mile marker 167 on Highway 20/26, where th driver of a 2004 Cadillac CTS failed to negotiate a slight curve, overcorrected and rolled.
The patrol says the driver, 33-year-old Mills resident Colbey J. Emms, was not wearing a seatbelt and died of his injuries at the scene of the crash.
Driver inattention is being investigated as a possible contributing factor. 040820
A 4th COVID-19 case in Douglas.
On Sunday, April 5th, the Converse County Public Health Department and Converse County Emergency Management received notification of another individual that tested positive for COVID-19.
This case is the 4th case for Converse County.
This individual lives in Douglas, is a female in her 70’s and has been hospitalized.
Wyoming as of midday Monday had at least 210 cases of the COVID-19 virus confirmed in 17 of its 23 counties.
There's 44 cases in Laramie County... 40 in Teton, 38 in Fremont, and 25 in Natrona County. 040620
On Sunday, April 5th, the Converse County Public Health Department and Converse County Emergency Management received notification of another individual that tested positive for COVID-19.
This case is the 4th case for Converse County.
This individual lives in Douglas, is a female in her 70’s and has been hospitalized.
Wyoming as of midday Monday had at least 210 cases of the COVID-19 virus confirmed in 17 of its 23 counties.
There's 44 cases in Laramie County... 40 in Teton, 38 in Fremont, and 25 in Natrona County. 040620
A Glendo man died in a rollover accident on the old Glendo Highway this weekend.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol says they were called out Saturday night at about 11pm to a one-vehicle rollover near milepost 221 on Wyoming 319 north of Glendo. .
The Patrol says a 2004 Dodge Ram drifted off the right side of the road, overcorrected back to the left before driving off the left side of the road and overturning.
The driver of the Dodge has been identified as 38-year-old Glendo, Wyoming resident Tucker D. Greenough. Greenough was not wearing a seatbelt and succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the crash.
Driver fatigue is being investigated as a possible contributing factor. 040620
The Wyoming Highway Patrol says they were called out Saturday night at about 11pm to a one-vehicle rollover near milepost 221 on Wyoming 319 north of Glendo. .
The Patrol says a 2004 Dodge Ram drifted off the right side of the road, overcorrected back to the left before driving off the left side of the road and overturning.
The driver of the Dodge has been identified as 38-year-old Glendo, Wyoming resident Tucker D. Greenough. Greenough was not wearing a seatbelt and succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the crash.
Driver fatigue is being investigated as a possible contributing factor. 040620
After a spring break that ended up being three weeks long, Douglas students will begin the learning process again today, without returning to the classroom.
The Governor's closure extension also applies to Wyoming's public schools, and CCSD1 Superintendent Paige Fenton Hughes said the extension was not surprising or unexpected.
Hughes said the district has been planning for this contingency, and an Adaptive Learning plan has been developed and approved by the Wyoming Department of Education.
New learning will begin to be delivered on Monday morning, April 6.
The district will use the Internet, the phone, and printed materials to begin the learning process again.
In her e-mail this weekend to staff and families, Fenton-Hughes said "First of all, let’s lower any level of anxiety about this. Not everything is going to work perfectly as we are all doing something we have never done before…both teachers, other school staff, and families. It’s all okay. Let’s be patient with each other and with our kids as we work through this process." 040620
The Governor's closure extension also applies to Wyoming's public schools, and CCSD1 Superintendent Paige Fenton Hughes said the extension was not surprising or unexpected.
Hughes said the district has been planning for this contingency, and an Adaptive Learning plan has been developed and approved by the Wyoming Department of Education.
New learning will begin to be delivered on Monday morning, April 6.
The district will use the Internet, the phone, and printed materials to begin the learning process again.
In her e-mail this weekend to staff and families, Fenton-Hughes said "First of all, let’s lower any level of anxiety about this. Not everything is going to work perfectly as we are all doing something we have never done before…both teachers, other school staff, and families. It’s all okay. Let’s be patient with each other and with our kids as we work through this process." 040620
A second coronavirus positive in Converse County,
On Wednesday, April 1st, 2020 the Converse County Public Health Department and Converse County Emergency Management received notification of another individual that tested positive for COVID-19.
It's the 2nd case for Converse County. This individual lives in Glenrock, is a male in their 50’s. This persons contact with the virus was through a known case and he is recovering at home.
State wide, the Covid-19 count Thursday morning was at: 150.
That's an increase of 13 since Wednesday evening.
Five new cases of the coronavirus have been identified in Natrona County, bringing the total number in Natrona County to 19. 040220
On Wednesday, April 1st, 2020 the Converse County Public Health Department and Converse County Emergency Management received notification of another individual that tested positive for COVID-19.
It's the 2nd case for Converse County. This individual lives in Glenrock, is a male in their 50’s. This persons contact with the virus was through a known case and he is recovering at home.
State wide, the Covid-19 count Thursday morning was at: 150.
That's an increase of 13 since Wednesday evening.
Five new cases of the coronavirus have been identified in Natrona County, bringing the total number in Natrona County to 19. 040220
Casper College will not hold an in-person graduation ceremony this year.
College president Darren Divine told students in an email Monday that a traditional, physical Graduation Ceremony will not occur this May. He said it's extremely unlikely that gatherings of that size will be allowed by early May, and thus we cannot in good conscience continue to keep that date on everyone’s calendar."
College spokesman Chris Lorenzen said the school is looking at a replacement, virtual ceremony and that details about the event were still being ironed out. Divine said in his email that the school "will do our absolute best to honor all of our graduates in a meaningful and inventive fashion."
Casper College, like others across the state, moved its classes online this spring amid the continuing spread of the novel coronavirus here. 040120
College president Darren Divine told students in an email Monday that a traditional, physical Graduation Ceremony will not occur this May. He said it's extremely unlikely that gatherings of that size will be allowed by early May, and thus we cannot in good conscience continue to keep that date on everyone’s calendar."
College spokesman Chris Lorenzen said the school is looking at a replacement, virtual ceremony and that details about the event were still being ironed out. Divine said in his email that the school "will do our absolute best to honor all of our graduates in a meaningful and inventive fashion."
Casper College, like others across the state, moved its classes online this spring amid the continuing spread of the novel coronavirus here. 040120
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
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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...
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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
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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...
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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
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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...
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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
