December 7-14, 2012 by C.C. Observer

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Volume 2 • Issue 49

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The Campbell County Observer December 7 17 - 14, June - 24,2012 2011

www.campbellcountyobserver.net

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Pioneer Manor restricts visiting due to Inﬂuenza

Pioneer Manor has initiated visiting restrictions due to two confirmed cases of influenza among residents. Restrictions are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the long term care setting when there is a confirmed or suspected influenza outbreak (two or more ill residents). Restrictions are in place for seven days after they are initiated, provided there are no additional confirmed influenza cases during that time period. Residents of long term care facilities can experi-

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ence severe or even fatal illness during influenza outbreaks. Antiviral medication will be initiated for residents by the Pioneer Manor Medical Director after notification of families and attending physicians. Visiting Restrictions include: • No visits from children under age 12. • Visits are restricted to two persons at a time. • All visitors must wash their hands upon entry to the facility and wear a mask when visiting. Masks and hand sanitizer is provided at the main entrance. • Anyone who feels ill or has flu-like symptoms should not visit. Visiting restrictions mean that the Pioneer Manor resident Christmas party, scheduled for December 4, has been postponed. Holiday carolers should contact Interim Administrator Jonni Belden at 688.7112 to check on current restrictions, or visit the website at www.ccmh.net/VisitingRestrictions. Restrictions will be lifted when as soon as it is safe for residents. Jonni Belden, Interim Pioneer Manor Administrator, expresses her empathy. “We are disappointed that we have to postpone the resident Christmas Party,” said Jonni. “But our first concern is the safety of our residents.” Cards are always appreciated, both mailed to Pioneer Manor at 900 W. 8th Street, Gillette, WY 82716; or via the eCard feature on the website, www.ccmh.net/ As_Our_Patient/eCards. aspx.

Help the Salvation Army Photo and Article by James Grabrick

The De Laat family, owners of the Campbell County Observer and Powder River Rooﬁng, stand outside of Wal-mart ringing the Salvation Army bell during last weekend’s snow. Plenty of volunteers are still needed. To become a volunteer, just give your name and your phone number to a “bell ringer” and you will be promptly contacted. The De Laats will also be ringing the bell outside of Wal-mart Saturday Dec. 8 (7-9pm), Saturday Dec. 15 (3-5pm) and Dec. 22 (3-5pm) and invite all of their customers to come and join them.

The Wyoming Wind is Back On December 2-3, wind gusts reached 60 mph with sustained winds of 40 to 50 mph over much of northeastern Wyoming and the Black Hills foothills on Sunday, December 2 and early morning of Monday, December 3. Gusts of 70 mph and higher were measured near Sundance and Beulah with winds near 70 mph at the Black Hills Airport east of Spearﬁsh. Wind measurements from the area include:

LOCATION - GUST - TIME Rozet - 70 MPH 12:00 PM Echeta RD - 68 MPH 12:51 PM Campbell County Airport - 63 MPH 9:66 AM Moorcroft - 60 MPH - 12:00 PM Upton - 60 MPH – 4:00 PM Downtown Gillette- 55 MPH 11:16 AM Pine Tree Junction - 52 MPH – 12:05 PM Wright - 48 MPH - 11:15 AM

Call Anne @ 307-670-8980 (Serious Inquiries Only)

For subscriptions go to www.CampbellCountyObserver.net

Community

December 7 - 14, 2012

Mayor’s Art Council announces 2012 Christmas Pin winner

2012 Christmas Pin Contest Winner is Shay Hough of 4J School Shay Hough, of 4J School, and her art teacher, Tarina Leithead, were recognized at the December 3rd City Council meeting. Shay is the 2012 Christmas Pin winner. This contest, which began in 2004, gives 6th grade elementary students an opportunity to show their artistic abilities in designing the annual Christmas pin. Each year in August, art teachers at each elementary school in Campbell County inform students to create a drawing to be submitted for selection by the Mayor’s Art Council. All entries are required to have a theme of Christmas and the Campbell County community. The artwork will be reduced to about the size of a quarter, so designs must be large. This contest is optional. The student whose artwork is selected receives $50.00 and an envelope of Christmas pins to share with family and friends. The art teacher of the winning student receives $150.00 for their art budget to use towards the current school year. The Mayor’s Art Council has a limited supply of the 2012 Christmas pins available at City Hall - so get them while supplies last.

Past Christmas Pin contest winners include: 2004 - SUNFLOWER ELEMENTARY · Kylee Ashton, Student · Roxanne West, Art Teacher 2005 - COTTONWOOD ELEMENTARY · Jazmin Diaz, Student · Tarina Leithead, Art Teacher

Campbell County Observer

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The 2012 Christmas Pin by Shay Hough of 4J School (Art Teacher, Tarina Leithead). Bob Rohan is a cartoonist in Houston, Texas and has been drawing “Buffalo Gals” since 1995. He was awarded “Best Cowboy Cartoonist” in 2009 by The Academy of Western Artists Will Rogers Awards out of Gene Autry, Oklahoma.

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Community

Campbell County Observer

December 7 - 14, 2012

What’s Going On? Friday, Dec. 07

• Peobody Coal Safety Summit, Heritage Center and Energy Hall, 8am-4:30pm • 1st National Bank Birthday Dinner, Senior Center, TBA • Quilting/Yoga, Senior Center, 9am • Ceramics, Senior Center, 9am • Annual Employee Awards Banquet-City of Gillette, Senior Center, 5:30pm • Senior Singers, Senior Center, 10am • Cards, Senior Center, 1pm • Holiday Gift Extr AVAganza, AVA Art Center, 8am5:30pm • 32 Below with Kip Attaway, Jake Tavern

Holiday Lighting Contest runs Dec. 3 through 7

Saturday, Dec. 08

• Campbell County Memorial Hospital Banquet, Equality Hall, 5:30pm-midnight • Stock Dog Trials, Barn 3, 10am-5pm • WRCHA Clinic, East Pavilion, 2pm-6pm • Holiday Show, AVA Art center, 9am -4pm • 32 Below with Kip Attaway, Jake Tavern

Three prizes for all ﬁve areas Residents participating should have their lights on during this time. Volunteers from the Senior Citizen Center will judge the contest. The City will be divided into ﬁve areas and three prizes will be awarded in each area - 1st place, 2nd place and 3rd place. The prizes are: First place, $100; second place $75; and third place $50. There will be no Citizen’s

Choice Award this year. No judging schedule will be available. Winners will be announced at the City Council meeting on December 17, 2012, at 7:00 p.m. Winners may choose to receive a gift card or a credit on their utility bill. For more information contact Public Information Ofﬁcer Joe Lunne at (307) 686-5393.

Sunday, Dec. 09

• Powder River Symphony, Heritage Center, 3-4:30pm

Monday, Dec. 10

• Buffalo Ridge 5-6 grade program, Heritage Center, 5:45pm • Meadowlark 5-6 grade program, Heritage Center, 7:15pm • Yoga Senior Center, 9:30am • Scarlet Belles S e n i o r

CAM-PLEX names new General Manager

Wednesday, Dec. 12

• Ceramics,Yoga, Senior Center, 9am • Hair with Karen, Senior Center, 9-11:30am • Walking, Senior Center, 9:30am • Chair Yoga, Senior Center, 10:30am • Audiologist, Senior Center, 11:00am • cards, Senior Center, 1:00pm • Holiday Gift ExtrAVAganza, AVA Art Center, 8am5:30pm

Thursday, Dec. 13

• John Paul II Winter Program, Heritage Center, 6:30pm • Tin Lizzie Bus, Senior Center, 9am • Exercise Class, Senior Center, 10am • Oil Panting, Senior Center, 10am • Cards,Bingo, S e n i o r Center, 1pm

Friday, Dec. 14

• P&H Christmas Party Frontier Hall, 5:30-7:30pm • Anadarko Petroleum Holiday Banquet, Energy Hall, 6pm • Quilting, Yoga, Senior Center, 9am • Ceramice, Senior Center, 9am • Walking, Senior Center, 9:30am • Senior Singers, Senior Center, 10am • Cards, Senior Center, 1pm • Holiday Gift ExtrAVAganza, AVA Art Center, 8am5:30pm • Badger Horse, Jakes Tavern

Saturday, Dec. 15

• Tri-State Industries Banquet, Energy Hall, 7pm • Holiday Show, AVA Art Center, 9am-4pm • Badger Hors/WBA Christmas Party, Jakes Tavern

Sunday, Dec. 16

• Jake’s X-mas Jakes Closed

What’s Going On Sponsor

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Owners

Rose Schipansky 307-689-2065

Carl Christensen 307-696-9017

Campbell County Christmas Guide 2012!!!

ager of The Mudd Group, an international automotive advertising agency in Cedar Falls, Iowa. In addition, Gaffey is an auctioneer and owner of the Gaffey Auction Company. Gaffey received his Bachelors Degree in economics from the University of Northern Iowa. “Though we will be starting a new phase with Larry, the board and I would also like to recognize Dan Barks. Dan has devoted over 20 years to CAMPLEX and had a hand in every major achievement of the facility,” said Christensen. “His leadership, vision and loyalty to CAM-PLEX will be missed.” Barks became CAM-PLEX General Manager in March of 1991 and announced his plans to retire earlier this year. He plans to stay active in the community. Questions can be directed to Mark Christensen, Chairman of the Campbell County Public Land Board at 307-660-1295 and Larry Gaffey at 319-939-0159.

The only SHOP LOCAL guide in the community!

K keep sho ppe mon rs ey l Loca l! Run date will be December 14th.

Contact Anne Peterson for ad pricing!

307-299-4662 or e-mail at annepeterson@campbellcountyobserver.com let rs e sum con what w kno ave to h you fer! of

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CampbellCountyObserver.net CCMH FRESH RAW MILK 5105 Tarry St. Gillette, WY 82718 (PP-1) information on Holiday Reception Free Volume 2 Issue 49 Cow Shares The Campbell County Observer is published on Dec. 13 by Patriot Publishing L.L.C. in Gillette, WY every Friday. ing-Ra ZRock www.E

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B Campbell County Memorial Hospital (CCMH)Gisrashosts Fed orses tH f Postmaster: a r ing a holiday reception on Thursday, December d Dfor www.EZRocking-Ranch.com an13 bsite ur we 5105 Tarry o to the public to meet newly elected Board TrusteesCoMike me r all our cts. fo produ le m b o a Dugan and Randy Hite. The reception will be heldavin the .c il a nch other De Laat - Owner/Publisher Candice ing-RaSee our ZRock main lobby from 4-5 pm. Guests can enjoy refreshments www.E CandiceDeLaat@CampbellCountyObserver.com locally-produced foods at by CCMH Nutrition Services, shop for holiday gifts inOwned by tylocRaal ncher. n u o C pbell the new Gift Shoppe and visit with all the CCMH www.WyomingGrassFed.com Board Nicholas De Laat - Owner/Editor Cam Trustees. NicholasDeLaat@CampbellCountyObserver.com ch.com

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Writers Sandra Boehler (Charities/Fundraisers/Veterans Events) SandraBoehler@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Keary Speer - Editor KearySpeer@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Glenn Woods (Political Column) GlennWoods@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Anne Peterson - Advertising Sales Manager AnnePeterson@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Mike Borda (American History) MichaelBorda@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Robyn Brooks - Sales/Marketing RobynBrooks@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Jeff Morrison (Local History Contributor) JeffMorrison@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Dale Russell - Sales/Marketing DaleRussell@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Valarie Terry (Sports Writer) ValarieTerry@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Owen Clarke - Ad Design OwenClarke@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Amanda Wright (Government/Politics Reporter) AmandaWright@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Ken McCoy - Distribution Manager

Shawn Connors (Community Writer) ShawnConnors@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Clint Burton - Photographer ClintBurton@CampbellCountyObserver.com

James Grabrick (Where is This?) JamesGrabrick@CampbellCountyObserver.com

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Following an extensive national search spanning several months, the Campbell County Public Land Board has hired Larry Gaffey to succeed Dan Barks as the General Manager of CAM-PLEX Multi-Event Facilities. “We are really excited to have Larry’s leadership at CAM-PLEX,” said Mark Christensen, Chairman of the Campbell County Public Land Board. “His past experiences and positions will bring new ideas and opportunities to CAM-PLEX.” Gaffey was chosen out of 55 applicants from around the country and is expected to take over as the CAM-PLEX General Manager in early February. Gaffey’s previous job experience includes General Manager of the National Cattle Congress, a multi-venue entertainment and agricultural education complex in Waterloo, Iowa. The venue hosts indoor and outdoor concerts, livestock shows, sporting events, gaming events, motorsports, corporate events, annual festivals and fairs. Gaffey was also General Man-

Tuesday, Dec. 11

• Conestoga K-1 grade program, Heritage Center, 6pm • Oil Painting, Senior Center, 10am • Computer Class, Senior Center, 10am • Cards, Senior Center, 1pm • Low Vision Group, Senior Center, 1pm • Holiday Gift ExtrAVAganza, AVA ART Center, 8am5:30pm

• Holiday Gift EXtrAVAganza, AVA ArtCenter, 8am5:30pm

The City of Gillette is proud to announce the 2012 Holiday Lighting Contest. The contest, which began in 1988, encourages citizens to decorate their homes for the holidays. The City of Gillette will again sponsor the Annual Holiday Lighting Contest. Judging will take place beginning December 3rd and continue through December 7th, between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.

Center, 11am • Cards, Senior Center, 1pm • Holiday Gift Extr AVAganza, AVA Art Center, 8-5:30pm

Community

December 7 - 14, 2012

Campbell County Observer

Obituaries

JAMES BRENDEL

James “Jim” C. Brendel age 63 passed away November 29, 2012 at his home in Gillette, Wyoming after a long hard battle with cancer. James Brendel was born January 27, 1949 in Billings, Montana the son of James W. and Anna Mae (Archer) Brendel. Jim grew up in Roundup, Billings and Livingston, Montana and Gillette, Wyoming. He graduated from high school in Salt Lake City, Utah. Jim married Mary Jane Niswender July 18, 1968. Jim worked for Deckers, Farmers Coop, Cenex, Home Depot and retired from Air-Gas. He was a volunteer with the Campbell County Fire Department for thirty years until his retirement in March of 2011. Jim was one of only two recipients to receive the “Metal OF Courage” in the history of the Campbell County Fire Department. Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, going ﬁshing, and helping coach soccer. He also enjoyed going to the races. Jim is survived by his wife Mary Jane of Gillette, WY; daughters, Christina Eslinger of Gillette, WY; Justina (Phillip) Brinkerhoff of Gillette, WY; Melissa (Steve) Hedlund of Gillette, WY; two grandchildren, Aunamae and Skyler; ﬁve sisters, Mary Bennon, Rosie Leaver, Lydia Clouse, Terrie Hoyt, and Ida Mutchie as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. Memorials and condolences may be sent in Jim’s name in care of Walker Funeral Home, 410 Medical Arts Court, Gillette, WY 82716. Condolences may also be sent via our website: www.walkerfuneralgillette.com

da and Julie. That wasn’t enough for Emily. Her great love was children, and she took many nieces and nephews into her home. When her sister, Mary, passed in 1979, she loved and cared for her children; Cheali, Lisa, and Claudia. Once they were grown she became a foster parent. She did this for 26 years and received an award in 1999 for her years of service. She had a special gift with all children but especially those most in need physically or mentally, so that is who they would send to her safe and loving arms. Emily was a member of the First Assembly of God and brought the children up to love and know our Savior Jesus Christ. She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard Stickney; her parents, Adon and Celina; her brother, Joe; sisters, Rose, Mabel and Mary; niece, Lisa McCue, whom she cared for until her passing on April 4, 2010; and one great-great-grandchild. Emily is survived by her daughters: Linda (Sam) Trujillo and Julie (Duane) Lavallio all of Gillette, Wyoming; five grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; her nieces: Cheali Jaramillo of Gillette, Wyoming, Claudia Iacovetto, whom she also raised; several nieces and nephews; her sister, Vivian Balgheim of Gillette, Wyoming; brothers, Leroy Jaramillo, of South Carolina, Floyd of Riverton, Wyoming and Adon Jr., of Thayne. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name and sent in care of Gillette Memorial Chapel, 210 W. 5th Street, Gillette, Wyoming 82716 or condolences via the internet at www.gillettememorialchapel.com. Funeral service for Jim Brendel was at 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 3, 2012 at Vineyard Christian Fellowship with Chaplain Gordon Harper officiating. Burial followed at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery, Gillette, Wyoming.

TERRI NEEMAN

EMILY STICKNEY

Funeral services for Emily Maria Stickney was held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 5, 2012 at First Assembly of God Church with Pastor Dan Holden ofﬁciating. Burial will follow in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery. God took one of his angels home, on November 30, 2012, Emily (Jarmillo) Stickney went home to her Lord and Savior. She passed away at Close to Home Hospice surrounded by her family. Emily Stickney was born in Cerro, New Mexico on September 6, 1935, to Adon and Celina (Archuletta) Jaramillo. She was the fourth of nine children. Her family later moved to Spotted Horse, near Gillette, Wyoming where she attended school. Emily graduated in 1954, from Campbell County High School. She also took nurses aid training and was employed by Pioneer Manor Nursing Home. Emily met her husband, Howard Ralph Stickney, and they married on July 19, 1952. They were married for 34 years until his death in 1986. They had two children together, Lin-

Memorial service for Terri Neeman was at 1:00 p.m. Monday, December 3, 2012 at Walker Funeral Home with Erik Berquist ofﬁciating. Terri Neeman age 54, passed away November 27, 2012 at Campbell County Memorial Hospital. Terri L. Neeman was born April 28, 1958 in Lafayette, Indiana the daughter of Donald R. and Marlene Sue (Grogan)Clough. She grew up and attended school in Hoopeston, Illinois, graduating from Hoopeston East High School. After graduation she began working at Dunn Grain Elevator in Dunn, IN. Terri moved to Gillette, WY in 1979 where she was employed at Hertz Rent-acar and Campbell County Memorial Hospital in the purchasing department. She married Robert Neeman on September 25, 1993 at the Foothills Community Center in Gillette, WY. Terri was a member of the Mother Of Twins Club and the Little League Mom’s clubs. Terri was a outstanding wife and loving mother devoted to caring for her triplet babies born August 16, 1983. She enjoyed gardening, reading, arts and crafts and old movies. She loved rock and roll music and Mustang cars.

Tom & Judy Mitich and Merry and Norm Caillier and her aunt Cindy Hauge. Interment will take place at Boyd Cemetery, Four Corners WY, No of Newcastle WY at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, December 1, 2012. Memorials are suggested to beneﬁt Mandi’s son Corbin. Memorials and condolences may be sent in Mandi’s name to Walker Funeral Home 410 Medical Arts Court, Gillette, WY 82716 or First State Bank, P.O. BOX 910, Newcastle, WY 82701 . Condolences may also be sent via the website at www.walkerfuneralgillette.com.

Terri is survived by her husband Robert Neeman of Gillette, WY; father Donald (B.J.) Miles of Williamsport, IN; mother Sue Clough of Marion, KS; sons, Brandon Miles of Gillette, WY; and Chance Miles of San Diego, CA; daughter, Rhiannon (Michael) Harry of Gillette, WY; Brother Joseph C. Miles of Lake Dallas, TX; sister, Pam Miles of Gillette, WY as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, and her 2005 Ford Mustang. She was preceded in death by her brother, Anthony W.Miles. In lieu of ﬂowers, The Terri Lynn Neeman Memorial Fund has been established at the First National Bank, Gillette, WY. Memorials and condolences may be sent in Terri’s name to Walker Funeral Home 410 Medical Arts Court, Gillette, WY 82716. Condolences may also be sent via the website to www.walkerfuneralgillette.com

DORIS TRUSTY

Doris Trusty age 98, passed away November 22, 2012 in Newcastle, Wyoming. Family services and interment at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery, in Gillette, WY will be held at a later date. Doris EllenTrusty was born June 26, 1914 in Arvada, Wyoming, the daughter of Claude Madison and Bessie Violet (Hall) Reed. The family worked for the 4N Ranch in the Arvada area and ﬁled on a homestead on Middle Prong Creek. In 1931-1933 as a young woman Doris worked for the Giers Ranch in Kearney Wyoming and in 1934 she worked for the Hackert Ranch near Buffalo. On the ranches she guided dudes, cooked, wrangled horses, cleaned house and anything else they needed her to do. In April of 1935 she came to Gillette and worked for Mr. and Mrs. Underwood keeping house and then in 1937-1939 she worked at the McHenry Hospital in Gillette where she met

AMANDA CAILLIER

Memorial service for Amanda “Mandi” Caillier was at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, December 1, 2012 at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church with Deacon Kim Carroll officiating. Amanda Caillier passed on Sunday, November 25, 2012 at Campbell County Memorial Hospital from complications of diabetes. Amanda Marie Caillier was born April 7, 1979 in Custer, South Dakota the daughter of Ronald and Cyndi (Mitich)Caillier. She grew up and attended school in Newcastle, Wyoming graduating from Newcastle High School in 1997. Following graduation she was employed at various flower shops. Mandi moved to Gillette in June of 2012 and was employed as a nanny. Mandi’s biggest joy in life was her six year old son, Corbin now in kindergarten. She loved books and going to the library, collecting coins, sports cards, jewelry, antiques, and she rarely missed a good yard sale. Mandi also loved the holidays and spending them with her family. Amanda is survived by her parents Ron Caillier of Gillette, WY; Cyndi Caillier of Newcastle, WY; son, Corbin of Gillette, WY; brothers, Gabriel Caillier of Spearfish, SD; Tom Caillier of Hawaii; and Joey Caillier of Hawaii; as well as several aunts, uncles and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandparents

her future husband George Darling. On July 3, 1939 in Columbus, Montana the couple were married. He preceded her in death on August 23, 1955. After George’s death she went to work for the Farm Bureau until her marriage to Garner Trusty on October 5, 1959 at the Presbyterian Chapel in Rapid City, SD with the Rev. Robert Christy ofﬁciating. Garner preceded her in death on January 18, 1987. Doris was an active member of Royal Neighbors and the Gillette Rebecca Lodge #28, for over 50 (joined in 1942) years. During this time she received the Decoration of Chivalry. She was also a member of the Pedal Pushers Garden Club and for many years planted and tended the ﬂower beds at the Pioneer Manor, Cam Plex and the

fairgrounds. She loved to garden, feed the squirrels and take drives to see the wild life around Gillette and the Black Hills area. Doris is survived by two nieces Bonnie Sisnaros of Greeley, CO; and Jeanie Tanner of Riverton, WY; three nephews, Merrill Tanner of Newcastle, WY; Russell Tanner of Reedsport, OR; Charles Reed of Gillette, WY. She was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, one sister one brother and one nephew. Memorials and condolences may be sent in Doris’s name in care of Walker Funeral Home, 410 Medical Arts Court, Gillette, WY 82716. Condolences may also be sent via our website: www.walkerfuneralgillette.com

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Community

Campbell County Observer

December 7 - 14, 2012

Warden’s Corner

The bobcat season opened November 15 will remain open until March 1, 2013. Bobcats may be taken by several means including ﬁrearms, leg-hold traps, quick-kill body-grip traps and with snares. All traps and snares must be marked with the trappers name and address or Department assigned trapper ID number. To take a bobcat hunters and trappers need to purchase a furbearer/trapping license which expires at the end of the year. Don’t forget to purchase your 2012 license if you plan to hunt or trap bobcats throughout the entire season. Trapping is a great way to get outdoors in late fall and winter and may bring in some extra income if bobcat prices are right.

to e m o H n o e m o C RN TIRE

O H G I B

Grants awarded to outstanding Wyoming non-proﬁts

Organizations providing early childhood education, sports programs, and training in ethics and entrepreneurship are among the recipients of $470,475 in grants to Wyoming nonproﬁts announced this week by the Daniels Fund. Grant recipients include: Buffalo Children’s Center; Child Development Center of Natrona County; Evanston’s Youth Opportunities Unlimited! Program; Laramie Youth Skating Program; Montessori School of Casper; Pine Bluffs Future Business Leaders of America Chapter’s Entrepreneurial Program; Baggs Valley Community Center’s Youth Wrestling Program; Ten Sleep Community Youth Program; Wyoming Child & Family Development Playground Upgrade Project; and the Wyoming State 4-H Foundation’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Program. “These organizations set a high standard

for excellence in serving the people of Wyoming,” explained Linda Childears, president and CEO of the Daniels Fund. “We are honored to support their efforts to make life better in communities across the state,” she added. The Daniels Fund will award a projected $3.3 million in grants to Wyoming nonprofits in 2012. Funding areas include: Aging, Alcoholism & Substance Abuse, Amateur Sports, Disabilities, Early Childhood Education, K-12 Education Reform, Ethics & Integrity in Education, Homeless & Disadvantaged, and Youth Development. Bill Daniels, a pioneer in cable television who launched his ﬁrst system in Casper, established the Daniels Fund to operate the Daniels Fund Scholarship Program and the Daniels Fund Grants Program in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. Visit www.DanielsFund.org for more information.

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Submitted by Matt Cox The Wyoming Business Council’s Agribusiness Division is offering display space to Wyoming producers of natural and organic products at the Natural Products Expo West (NPEW) trade show in Anaheim, Calif., March 7-10, 2013. With more than 60,000 industry members attending each year, NPEW features more than 3,000 exhibitors, buyers and owners of natural foods stores, gyms, restaurants, grocery stores and gourmet shops. “This is a great way for manufacturers of natural and organic goods in Wyoming to get in front of buyers who are looking for these types of products,” said Donn Randall, Crop and Forage Program manager at the Business Council, who manages the state’s valueadded food program. The Business Council will have a booth at the show to display Wyoming-made products and/or literature. Companies participating will be provided two feet of table space to display product

samples and literature. Businesses will be chosen on a first-come-firstserved basis. The deadline to submit products is Jan. 26, 2013 and the cost of attending is $200, a significant savings for businesses that would otherwise pay $6,500 for their own display space. “An added benefit for the companies who will be participating this year will be the Western United States Agricultural Trade Association (WUSATA), match-making event being held during the tradeshow,” said Randall. “This event should really increase the exposure for our

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Wyoming food companies with the Canadian all natural food buyers.” Interested Wyoming businesses should contact Randall at 307.777.6578 or donn.randall@wyo.gov. The Agribusiness Division works with agricultural producers to ﬁnd ways to diversify their income through value-added goods, and consumer-ready products and commodities to sustain ranching and farming operations, create jobs, increase competitiveness in the national and international marketplaces and stimulate industry growth.

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December 7 - 14, 2012

Comics

Campbell County Observer

Comics

December 7 - 14, 2012

To submit a quote of the week go to www.CampbellCountyObserver.net

Solutions from last week

We want to get it Write. Oops we mean Right. The Observer strives to make news reports fair and accurate. If you have a question or comment about news coverage, Contact us at nicholasdelaat@campbellcountyobserver.com

Community

December 7 - 14, 2012

Campbell County Observer

Wyoming First Lady Carol Mead, second from left, was joined by Kay Persichitte, UW College of Education dean, and President Tom Buchanan Monday at the State Capitol to announce the success of a fundraising campaign for the Literacy Research Center and Clinic. It will be located in the UW College of Education Annex Building in Laramie.

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New Center at UW will lead Literacy Education, Research Submitted by the University of Wyoming Wyoming’s efforts to help children succeed in school and careers will receive a major boost with the opening of the University of Wyoming Literacy Research Center and Clinic next year. During a press conference today (Monday) at the State Capitol in Cheyenne, First Lady Carol Mead was joined by Gov. Matt Mead, university and UW Foundation ofﬁcials to announce the success of a fundraising campaign for the Literacy Research Center and Clinic (LRCC). It will be located in the UW College of Education Annex Building in Laramie, following renovations totaling $3.8 million. The work will be funded by private donations matched by state appropriations. The campaign continues with an ongoing emphasis on technology advancements and programmatic support for literacy initiatives statewide. “This is a wonderful example of a public-private partnership that promises to make a signiﬁcant difference in the lives of Wyoming families,” UW President Tom Buchanan says. “We’re grateful to those who’ve contributed to allow us to move to the next level in literacy education, which has become a focal point of scholarship and expertise in our College of Education.” For Mrs. Mead, the LRCC represents a major step forward in one of her primary areas of focus -- children’s issues. She has worked with the UW Foundation to raise private support for the campaign, and with the university as a major spokesperson for literacy initiatives. “I join the university in thanking the generous donors who have helped make the concept of a statewide Literacy Research Center and Clinic a reality,” she says. “I have enjoyed work-

ing with UW on this project and am excited about its capacity to reach so many in our state with tools fundamental to our children’s success.” The LRCC will serve as the epicenter of literacy expertise in Wyoming, offering professional development for teachers;literacy education for pre-service teachers and graduate students; research on literacy education; and service as a statewide clinical resource. The center will build upon a number of statewide partnerships already established by the College of Education, along with two Wyoming Excellence in Higher Education Endowed Chairs in Literacy Education established at UW, with funding from the Legislature. “There’s a common understanding in this state that improving literacy levels will help Wyoming students be more successful in any college or career future they might choose. That’s exactly what we’re working to do,” says Kay Persichitte, UW College of Education dean. “We’re humbled by the generosity of the donors, our elected ofﬁcials, President Buchanan and the UW Foundation. We are looking forward to providing a signiﬁcant resource for the state of Wyoming.” The College of Education has received lead gifts for the facility renovation from Mickey and Jeanne Klein, the Joe and Arlene Watt Foundation, Thea Stidum, and Don and Betty Walters. The campaign also has raised several endowment gifts, most notably from the John P. Ellbogen Foundation, for the ongoing support of the LRCC’s activities. “First Lady Carol Mead’s involvement with the university and the UW Foundation in raising literacy awareness and her active role in asking

Featured Crime

Destruction of Property

Crime Stoppers needs your help in solving a destruction of property that occurred at Madison’s Garden located at 499 North Brooks at the intersection of Warlow Dr. Unknown suspect(s) damaged all of the light ﬁxtures and pulled up 10 plants in Madison’s Garden. The damage is estimated at over $1,000 and possibly occurred prior to 11/25/2012. If you have information that can solve this or any other crime please call Crime Stoppers at 686-0400 or the High School Crime Stoppers at 682-4185. You can remain anonymous and may earn up to $1,000 in reward.

private contributors to give generously to support UW’s literacy agenda has been pivotal to our success to date,” says UW Foundation President Ben Blalock. “It is a privilege to work with Carol. So many special donors have generously supported UW’s important literacy initiatives. We look forward to the continuation of our close work with Carol. There is so much more to accomplish.” University of Wyoming Literary Research Center and Clinic • Location: First ﬂoor of the UW College of Education Annex Building at Lewis Street and 13th Street. • Purpose: Serve as the epicenter of literacy expertise in Wyoming. • Objectives: Improve the quality of literacy learning, literacy instruction and literacy leadership in the state through professional development for teachers; improved literary education for pre-service teachers and graduate students; research on literacy education; and service as a statewide clinical resource. Focus on the needs of learners of all ages (birth through high school) and improvement of the instructional capacity of classroom teachers to meet these needs. • Strategy: Through the formation of partnerships with public and private schools, government agencies and community-based organizations, center personnel will engage in clinical and professional development activities both on the UW campus and across the state using distance delivery technologies. Research projects will be developed in relation to clinical and professional development activities. Outreach and research efforts will focus on: (a) basic literacy processes (e.g., emergent literacy, vocabulary, comprehension); (b) struggling readers and writers; (c) genre-based, discipline-based literacy processes across the K-12 spectrum; (d) family literacy (particularly with poor, rural families and families who include English learners); and (e) the transition to postsecondary life. • Construction: The existing 9,000 gross square feet of lower-level space in the Education Annex Building will be reconﬁgured for the LRCC containing 5,780 net square feet. It will include a family literacy area; six diagnostic and tutorial rooms digitally connected to a cen-

tralized server to provide video, audio and computer data; two large seminar spaces with state-of-the-art distance technology; graduate student research space; and offices for Victoria Gillis and George Kamberelis, the two Wyoming Excellence in Higher Education Endowed Chairs in Literacy Education. Design firm is The Design Studio Inc. of Cheyenne. • Funding: The estimated costs of $3.8 million are funded with private donations and matched by state appropriations. • Timetable: Contractor selection in January, with construction beginning shortly thereafter; opening in fall 2013. • Staffing: In addition to the two endowed chairs, more than 15 other UW faculty members in the College of Education and other academic units have expertise and interest in literacy education. • Partnerships: The College of Education already has a number of partnerships with public and private entities across the state, with a goal of expanding the range of literacy education services provided to children and families. Among those partners are the Child Development Center of Natrona County in Casper; the Teton Literacy Center and Systems of Education in Jackson; school districts in Sweetwater, Lincoln, Laramie and Weston counties; the Wyoming Department of Family Services; and the Laramie community.

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Community National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

December 7 - 14, 2012

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National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, which is observed annually on December 7, is to remember and honor all those who died in the event. On August 23, 1994, United States Congress, by Pub.L. 103-308, designated it so. It is a tradition to fly the Flag of the United States at half-staff until sunset in honor of fallen patriots. On Sunday morning, December 7, 1941 America’s naval base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii was attacked by the forces of the Empire of Japan. More than 2,400 Americans were killed and more than 1,100 were wounded. The By Nicholas attack sank four U.S. DeLaat Navy battleships and damaged four more. It also damaged or sank three cruisers, three destroyers, one minelayer and damaged 188 aircraft. That will have happened 61 years ago on Dec. 7th. It is amazing that we remember and honor September 11th (as we should) every year with what seems like greater and grander ceremonies. But Pearl Harbor Day? Well, that was so long ago, we can let that die out right? I mean, most kids in school do not even have grandparents who were alive then. Like many other events, it is time that it be forgotten; and can you believe that I had to sit and listen to someone say that the other day? Forget the day that entered us into the greatest war we ever fought? Forget about the over two thousand Americans that lost their lives? Hey, let us just forget about WWII all together. Yes, I know that we do not get time off of school or from work for Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (like the government workers need more holidays anyway) and while we are at work or school there are too many things on our mind to think about December 7th. But ask yourself, is that day important? Should we take time out of the day and remember what took place? Absolutely! Here is what I am going to do this year. I am going to wake up in the morning and put my American Flag and POW/MIA flag at half-mast as ordered. I am going to go to work that Friday, and prepare this newspaper for delivery to our subscribers. That evening, I am going to sit my children down and show them video footage of Pearl Harbor. I will talk to them about it, and tell them about how Pearl Harbor started the war that their Great Grandpa was in. I am going to go outside that evening, put my flags back at top-mast, salute those flags, then say a prayer for all of the first victims of WWII, who all died on this day 60 years ago. You will not be forgotten, not while Americans hold in their heart the pride of our country and our fallen, who has given us that freedom to forget if we so choose...But we will not forget.

Why Is It? (a/k/a The Advertising Poem) A man wakes up after sleeping under an advertised blanket, on an advertised mattress, pulls off advertised pajamas, bathes in an advertised shower, shaves with an advertised razor, brushes his teeth with advertised toothpaste, washes with advertised soap, puts on advertised clothes, drinks a cup of advertised coffee, drives to work in an advertised car, and then, refuses to advertise, iot Publ believing it doesn’t pay. atr Later when business is poor, he advertises it for sale. Why is it? P

Campbell County Observer

Know your Constitution

Every week, the Observer prints one article, paragraph, or section of either the U.S. or State Constitution for your information. Article 3, Section 7. Time and place of sessions. (a) The legislature shall meet at the seat of government at twelve o’clock noon, on the second Tuesday of January of the odd-numbered years for general and budget session and may meet on the second Tuesday of January of the evennumbered years for budget session, and at other times when convened by the governor or upon call of the legislature as herein provided. The governor by proclamation may also, in times of war or grave emergency by law defined, temporarily convene the legislature at a place or places other than the seat of government. The legislature may convene a special session not to last longer than twenty (20) working days as follows: (i) Upon written request to the presiding officer of each house of the legislature by a majority of the elected members of each house, the legislature shall convene in special session; or (ii) The presiding officers of each house shall also jointly call a special session for the purpose of resolving a challenge or a dispute of any kind in the determination of the presidential electors.

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Where is this picture taken?

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Public Pulse

December 7 - 14, 2012

Campbell County Observer

Cost of Government Day Annual Report Deﬁnition: Cost of Government Day (COGD) is the date of the calendar year on which the average American worker has earned enough gross income to pay off his or her share of the spending and regulatory burden imposed by government at the federal, state and local levels. Cost of Government Day 2012 The Cost of Government Day for 2012 is July 15. On average, workers must labor 197 days out of the year to pay for all the costs imposed by the government. From a different perspective, the cost of government makes up 54.0 percent of annual gross domestic product (GDP).

Cost of Government Day Trends Cost of Government Day falls three days earlier than last year’s revised date of July 18. In 2012, the average American will have to work an additional 29 days to pay off his or her share of the cost of government compared to ten years ago in 2002, when COGD was June 16. In fact, between 1977 and 2008, COGD had never fallen later than June 26. 2012 marks the fourth consecutive year COGD has fallen in July. The difference between 2008 and 2009— from June 23 to July 17—was a full 24 days. The increase was spurred by massive government intervention in the form of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act (EESA) that created the

Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) and passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). While 2012 marks the second consecutive year of an earlier COGD, this trend will only be temporary absent lasting and institutionalized spending reform. The start of the 2012 ﬁscal year came and went once again without a federal budget in place and the threat of bankrupt entitlement spending continues to loom large. What’s more, the largest tax hike in the nation’s history is scheduled to take place at the end of 2012 unless Congress acts to protect taxpayers. If this tax increase is allowed to hit, COGD could permanently be pushed back into August and beyond.

Joke of the week Submitted by Mike Trox Two guys were out walking their dogs on a hot day, when they pass by a pub. The ﬁrst guy says “Let’s go in there for a pint.” Second guy, says, “They won’t let us in with our dogs.” First guy: “Sure they will, just follow my lead.” He goes up to the pub, and sure enough the doorman says, “I can’t let you in here with that dog.” He replies, “Oh, I’m blind and this is my seeing-eye dog.” The doorman says, “Ok then, come on in.” The second guy sees this and does the same thing. He goes up to the pub, and the doorman says, “You can’t come in here with a dog.” He replies, “I’m blind and this is my seeing-eye dog.” The doorman responds, “You have a Chihuahua for a seeing-eye dog?” The second guy stops for a second, and exclaims, “They gave me a Chihuahua?”

COST OF GOVERNMENT DAY COMPONENTS

Federal Spending The average American worker will have to labor 88 days just to pay for federal spending, which consumes 24.04 percent of the national income. This is a small improvement from last year, when individuals had to work 91 days, and the previous year, when taxpayers worked 93 days.

State and Local Spending In 2012, the average American labored 40.04 days to fund state and local spending. This is roughly the same as the number of days worked in 2011; but it is one day more than 2010.

Submitted by James Phillip Grabrick

Where is this picture taken? Answer from last week Outside of Wal-mart Salvation Army

Regulatory Costs The average American must labor 69 days in 2012 just to cover the costs of government regulations. In 2010 and 2011, laborers had to work 71 days to cover the same costs. 2012 regulations consume about 19 percent of gross domestic product. In 2001, regulations consumed 14 percent of gross domestic product; the gap between 2002 and 2012 represents the largest increase of regulatory burdens yet.

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Campbell Co. Fire Dept.

November 29, 2012

November 30, 2012

- At 12:11 am to Echeta Road, 23 miles west of Gillette for a reported grass fire. Firefighters arrived on scene and found a controlled burn that was unattended. - At 3:15 am to the 3700 block of Links Lane for carbon monoxide detector activation. - At 2:44 pm to the area of Independence Lane for an EMS assist. - At 5:22 pm to S. Douglas Highway and Interstate 90 for a vehicle vs. bicyclist. - At 5:22 pm to S. Highway 50 for an EMS assist. - At 6:37 pm to Coal Train for an EMS assist. - At 8:01 pm 2307 Wyoming Ave. for a fire alarm activation, upon arrival it was determined that burnt food had set the smoke detectors off. The alarm was reset and all units cleared the scene. - At 9:36 pm to Interstate 90 mile marker 132 for a one

December 1, 2012

- At 2:13 am to Running W Dr. for an EMS assist. - At 11:13 a.m. to Sierra Circle for an EMS assist. - At 7:14 p.m. to Mountain Meadow Lane for an EMS assist. - At 9:42 p.m. to South Gillette Avenue for an EMS assist.

December 2, 2012

- At 01:20 a.m. to Pintail Drive for an EMS assist. - At 12:34 p.m. to the Eagles Lodge at 210 E. 3rd St. for a dumpster fire. The fire was extinguished with no property damage. - At 3:52 p.m. to the 4 Corners Rd. for a 38 acre grass fire. A nearby garbage dump was burned about a week ago, the wind re kindled the fire and ignited the grass fire. 12 pieces of apparatus responded due to the high wind and potential for large growth. - At 8:30 to Mountain Meadow lane for an EMS assist.

December 3, 2012

- At 12:03 a.m. to Sammye Avenue for an EMS assist. - At 11:11 a.m. to Beech Street for an EMS assist.

- At 1:53 p.m. to 3005 Oakcrest Drive for a gas smell inside the building. CCFD responded to the scene and upon arrival did not find any natural gas inside the building. Maintenance staff and SourceGas personnel were notified and the scene was turned over to them for further investigation. - At 3:00 p.m. to Bison Avenue for a possible structure fire. Upon arrival CCFD personnel determined there was no fire and the smoke seen by the 911 caller was coming from a fire place. - At 4:01 p.m. to the area of Sundog Subdivision for a smoke report. CCFD responded to the scene and determined the smoke was from a controlled burn at 5007 Friday Street that was not properly reported.

December 4, 2012

- At 7:21 AM to the 1500 block of Cherry Drive for a medical assist. - At 7:36 AM to the intersection of South Highway 59 and Southern Drive for a two vehicle trafﬁc accident with injury. - At 10:15 AM to the 400 block of Prairieview Drive for a medical assist. - At 8:32 PM to the 5200 block of Hiline Road for a medical assist.

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- At 10:21 am to the address of 601 Running W Drive for a gas smell. It was unknown as to the source of the odor because it dissipated upon arrival of emergency crews and before they could pinpoint the cause. Source Gas ofﬁcials did assist with the investigation but also did not ﬁnd any source of the odor throughout the area. The odor was only in the area for a short period of time before it dissipated. No damage was done. - At 12:03 pm to the 3800 block of South Highway 59 for a medical assist. - At 12:54 pm to the 2300 block of Mahogany Circle for a medical assist. - At 3:33 pm to Aspen Lane for a medical assist. - At 5:38 pm to the 3200 block of Echeta Road for an EMS assist. - At 7:50 pm to the 100 block of Patrick Henry Rd. for an EMS assist.

vehicle rollover with minor injuries, no entrapment.

November 28, 2012

- At 10:15 am to 600 W. Boxelder Rd. (Sheriffs Dept.) for a report of a smoke smell in the building. Prior to arrival all units were cancelled by dispatch

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Public Pulse

Campbell County Observer

Public sends plethora of proposed initiatives to Governor for energy strategy Governor Matt Mead asked the public for involvement in developing a Wyoming Energy Strategy and a wide spectrum of Wyoming people have jumped in. Over 70 suggested initiatives have been proposed. These cover the range of tangible projects, proposed policies and agency actions. The goal is to use these initiatives as the basis for a model strategy that promotes energy, open spaces, working agricultural operations and economic growth. “The people of Wyoming have produced some very innovative ideas and I believe that together we can create a strategy that will ensure Wy-

oming continues to be a leader in energy development, economic growth and in conservation,” Governor Mead said. Wyoming is the leading exporter of energy to the rest of the country. It is also a leader in regulation and conservation, including hydraulic fracturing regulation and sage-grouse management. The public is invited to participate in the energy strategy process next week by attending public events. Webinars will be held Thursday and Friday (December 6 and 7) to review the proposed initiatives. A list of the initiatives is available on the Governor’s website. (http://governor.wy.gov/Pag-

es/energystrategy.aspx) “This energy strategy is about charting a course for Wyoming and I ask that people make time to provide us with feedback and ideas,” Governor Mead said. There will be five webinars/public meetings. The first will be an overview of the energy strategy and the next four will focus on the themes of the energy strategy. The themes are: economic competitiveness, expansion and diversification; efficient, effective regulation; reclamation and mitigation; and education, innovation and new technologies.

Event will examine issues affecting Wyoming Coal Industry The School of Energy Resources and the Center for Energy Economics and Public Policy at the University of Wyoming will host a coal industry roundtable discussion in December to examine the state of the coal industry. “Powder River Basin Coal: Domestic Challenges and International Opportunities” will examine coal use in the United States, coal’s export potential and what issues may affect coal use in the next four years,

among other topics. The roundtable is scheduled from 9 a.m-3:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, at the Gillette College Technical Education Center, 3521 S. 4-J Road, in Gillette. The event is free, but registration is required because of limited seating. For more information and to register, visit www.uwyo. edu/ser/conferences/coalroundtable.html. The domestic coal industry faces many challenges, including environmental

constraints on emissions and the economic consequences, competition from other fuel sources for electrical generation, and the implementation of renewable portfolio standards. Wyoming is the nation’s leading producer of coal and its economy depends on energy extraction. “Coal is important as an abundant, low-cost energy source for the U.S. economy,” UW School of Energy Resources Director Mark Northam says. “The energy

programs at the University of Wyoming are looking at ways that coal can continue to be used in the decades to come, because maintaining a viable coal industry is important to ensuring stable, low-cost, reliable electric power generation.” The result of this roundtable will be a white paper that will be made available to state and federal policy makers to inform regulatory decisions affecting the coal industry.

Senate rejects United Nations treaty for disabled rights in a 61-38 vote Submitted by Randy Cox A United Nations treaty to ban discrimination against people with disabilities went down to defeat in the Senate on Tuesday in a 6138 vote. The treaty, backed by President Obama and former Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole (R-Kan.), fell ﬁve votes short of the two-thirds majority needed for conﬁrmation as dozens of Senate Republicans objected that it would create

new abortion rights and impede the ability of people to homeschool disabled children. Sen. James Inhofe (ROkla.) argued the treaty would infringe on U.S. sovereignty, an argument echoed by other opponents. “This unelected bureaucratic body would pass recommendations that would be forced upon the United States if we were a signa-

tory,” he said. Supporters of the treaty argued that the Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities would simply require the rest of the world to meet the standards that Americans already enjoy under the 1990 Americans With Disabilities Act. The treaty was negotiated and ﬁrst signed under former President George W. Bush and signed again

by Obama in 2009. At least 153 other countries have signed it. Republican Sens. Kelly Ayotte (N.H.), John Barrasso (Wyo.), Scott Brown (Mass.), Susan Collins (Maine), Dick Lugar (Ind.), John McCain (Ariz.), Olympia Snowe (Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) voted with Democrats in favor of the treaty.

Independent Retailers balk at proposed fuel tax hike

December 7 - 14, 2012

On the Contrary... On the Contrary is a weekly segment in the Observer formatted in the form of a print debate. The opinions and views stated here are not necessarily the views of the two debaters, as many times you will have one playing “devil’s advocate.” This week, Glenn is the devil’s advocate. To become a guest debater, email CampbellCountyObserver@gmail.com

The Issue: Appointed vs. Elected Judges in Wyoming

Nicholas DeLaat (Publisher) Appointed

Glenn Woods (Observer Columnist and Radio Talk Show Host) Elected

Nick: I think that all judges in Wyoming should be voted in by the Wyoming voters both to gain office and to leave office. Glenn: The advantage to appointed judges is that in most cases the position of the judge lasts longer than the position of the Governor and I would rather the judge not be influenced by voters or politicians. Nick: But we still have elections, as every election cycle you vote on certain judges whether you still want them in the particular seat they currently hold. Also, in States where judges are elected you still have conditions, i.e. must have a state bar, must have certain time practicing law, and more. Also, they are non-partisan races. This means you are not talking about partisan politics getting involved in races. Glenn: Still though, when you have people or politicians around you that influence your immediate future, it could persuade your decision when interpreting the law and the Constitution. So the voters opinions don’t matter, and it shouldn’t, do not have a direct influence on your rulings. If you are talking about just the Governor, then you are in a much better position to concentrate on the law. Nick: Currently in Wyoming, judges are still elected out by the citizens. Now because they still go through the election to keep their positions, they still have to please the voters. What is the difference then in the appointment of them by elections? Glenn: Does it matter whether they are elected or appointed? One way they are elected by the political whim of the people, and the other the political whim of the politicians. We all know that the opinions of the people sway like reeds in the wind. Nick: Ah, but so do the opinions of the politicians. So which do you think is better, the opinion of the people or of the politicians? Glenn: In most cases, and this is where it gets sticky, if you have the opinions of the politicians, they are usually up to no good while the people don’t know what they are talking about. So at least the politicians are experts on the law and current events. Nick: Yes on current events, but no on knowledge on most things that pertain to their office. Let’s take a look at that idiot Aken, who said that a woman’s body can shut down the ability to get pregnant during rape. Do you trust him more than the people to make health care decisions? Glenn: Nick, you know me better than most people. If I were to lie, I trust the politician more.

Submitted by Keith Phucas - Wyoming Liberty Group Two Cheyenne service station owners are staunchly opposed to a proposed 10-cent state fuel tax increase being ﬂoated around to pay for maintaining Wyoming’s highways, roads and bridges. Currently, the total tax on each gallon of gasoline in Wyoming is 32.4 cents – 18.4 cents is federal tax; 14 cents is the state excise tax. For diesel fuel, the state tax per gallon is also 14 cents; however, the federal tax is 24.4 cents. Wyoming has the second lowest cumulative fuel tax in the country. Citing ﬂat or shrinking state and federal revenue available for the state’s roadways, one of the dimea-gallon tax’s proponents, Wyoming Department of Transportation, is touting the proposed increase as necessary to fund an estimated $135 million in annual road maintenance costs. Despite lobbying pitches by Wyoming Taxpayers Association claiming a 10cent tax increase would be painlessly absorbed by the gas retailing industry, a long-time Cheyenne service station owner balked at that assertion. “A (fuel) tax will be passed on to the consumer – to all of us,” said John Skarohlid Jr., who owns Logan Avenue Texaco. “Everybody will pay for it.” Anyone doubting that a tax hike won’t be passed on to gas customers as well as other retail consumers in Cheyenne or other parts of

Wyoming is “an idiot,” he said. In time, a fuel tax increase would boost the price of every product and service delivered by fuel-burning motor vehicles, whether consumers buy groceries, clothing or have a malfunctioning home heating unit serviced. The business Skarohlid’s father opened in 1960 at the corner of Logan Avenue and 19th Street, with gas pumps as well as service bays for mechanical repair work, is the last traditional gas station in Cheyenne. Skarohlid, who began working at Logan Avenue Texaco when he was 12 years old, co-owned the business with his father for 30 years, then became sole owner after his dad became ill in 2005. John S. Skarohlid Sr. died of cancer in 2010. Asked if he would feel compelled to raise his price at the pump if a fuel tax is passed into law by Wyoming lawmakers, Skarohlid’s answer was clear and unambiguous. “I wouldn’t be compelled to raise prices – it would be a have-to situation,” he said. This is a fact anyone running a business understands. Due to the volatility of crude oil prices that inﬂuence the wholesale price of gasoline, operating a retail business is a difﬁcult balancing act, Skarohlid explained. Oil and gas prices can change daily. According to a 2012 Na-

tional Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) Retail Fuels Report, fuel retailers typically see profitability decrease as prices rise, and increase as prices drop. Retail businesses selling gasoline, 80 percent of them convenience stores, operate on razor thin profit margins, according to the NACS report. After factoring in all operating costs and expenses, profits from selling fuel average only 2 cents to 4 cents per gallon. However, Skarohlid said that after calculating his taxes, utilities and other business expenses at the end of the year, he actually loses money on gas and diesel sales. The business’ profits come from the maintenance and repair work he and his employees perform on customers’ cars and trucks. “I work to pay the taxes,” he said. The owner of Snyder Food & Gas, about two miles west of the Cenex station, told a similar tale of the pitfalls experienced by independent retailers selling fuel. Dhanminder Singh operates the small convenience store at 2100 Snyder Ave. He said he loses money on every gasoline sale at his retail business – as much as 10 cents a gallon if customers use credit or debit cards. According to the NACS report, convenience store industry credit and debit card fees ($9 billion) aver-

aged 4.7 cents per gallon in 2010, with the fees totaling more than the industry’s profits ($6.5 billion) that year. Singh keeps his business afloat by selling snack foods, candy, drinks and cigarettes. His profit margin depends upon what he’s selling at any given moment. For example, a single pack of cigarettes yields a much larger profit than a carton of cigarettes. If Singh didn’t own the business and instead paid rent to a landlord, he said, the business would not be viable. “If I had to pay rent, I would be out of business,” he said. In 1994, there were 202,800 retail fuel outlets in the United States, according to the NACS report. In 2011, only 157,393 were left, reflecting a steady decline over 17 years of almost 25 percent, an average of about 2,670 businesses a year. One of the more recent local casualties of the retail fuel industry is Stag Oil Company, which operated three gas stations in Cheyenne: One at 1000 E. Pershing Blvd; a second at the corner of Lincolnway and Logan Avenue; and a third at 5923 Yellowstone Road. Motorists pulling into the Stag Oil station on Pershing Boulevard in recent weeks discovered no one was there to pump their gas. A sign on the front door reads, “Out of Business.”

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What’s Going On In Government? Saturday, Dec. 08

• NEWY Municipal Leaders Regional Meeting, CityHall Community Room, 8:30am

Monday, Dec. 10

• Wright Town Council Meeting, Wright Town Hall, 7:30pm • City Council Work Session, City Hall, 6pm

Tuesday, Dec. 11

• City of Gillette Board of Examiners, City Hall, 12:30pm

Wednesday, Dec. 12

• Campbell County Joint Powers Fire Board, Fire Department Community Room, 6pm

Thursday, Dec. 12

• Parks and Beautiﬁcation Board (City of Gillette), City Hall Community Room, 5:30pm • Campbell County Public Land Board, Camplex Board Room, 7pm

What’s Going On Sponsor

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Rose Schipansky 307-689-2065

Carl Christensen 307-696-9017

Public Pulse

December 7 - 14, 2012

Campbell County Observer

Wyoming Producers of Natural and Organic Goods invited to trade show

Bold Republic Weekly

Submitted by Matt Cox

Governor Mead vs. ObamaCare By Glenn Woods Last Friday, Governor Matt Mead held a press conferences that I thought was one of the most important he has held during his tenure as Governor of Wyoming. He said a lot, and there is a lot to pick apart here, but I’m going to focus on just the one thing that most of you are itching to hear about: What is the Governor’s position on ObamaCare? This past November we passed a constitutional Amendment here in the state, dealing with ObamaCare, and Governor Mead signed off on it. I was expecting to hear him stand strong during this press conference, like Governor Jan Brewer of Arizona did when she, in effect, called ObamaCare an unsustainable mess that she would not dream of implementing in her state. Those were not her exact words. She was much more polite about it. Yes, I wanted to hear those same words from Governor Mead. He came close - But. I did not need a BUT! Anywhere in there. I wanted Governor Mead to put his foot down. I’ve learned over the years that life is not fair and if you really want something you have to ﬁght for it every step of the way. So, as a State and as a Nation if we really want to rid ourselves of this mess, we are going to have to keep on ﬁghting, tooth and nail, like in a horror movie where the creature keeps coming back no matter what we do to it. To put it in a nutshell for you what the Governor said was that he took a look at

ObamaCare from a financial point of view, and listened to every argument, to be fair. Since he was not satisfied with the answer he was getting from Kathleen Sibelius, director of Health and Human Services, which oversees ObamaCare, when he got answer from her at all, and since Governor Mead was receiving conflicting numbers on what ObamaCare might save or cost the state of Wyoming, Governor Mead thought the prudent thing to do was to pass on the healthcare law --- for now. Does that mean that there is a chance that the state of Wyoming might pick up part or all over this massive healthcare debacle at any time in the future? That’s what it sounded like to me. First, we have a legislative session to get through, which happens in January. Less than a month away. From the rumblings I hear most all of our state representatives agree on passing on ObamaCare and not implementing it. Governor Mead gave us a lot to think about. There are many special interest groups right here in the state of Wyoming, and many from outside the

state, that stand to profit or even hope to save their companies by playing ball with the Department of Health and Human Services. These are the people and organizations that are trying to exert influence and pressure on your State Representatives. They are well funded and they know how to play this game. But wait for that other shoe to drop. Remember, little if anything in life ever goes as we planned or as we wish. I hope that you are on good speaking terms with your state representatives. Wait, before I say that, I wonder, do you know who your state representatives are? Wow, that’s a great question. I’m might have to start a pop quiz and just stop people on the street at random and ask. If they don’t know I’ll fine them $10, on the spot. I bet I’ll be rich by the end of the day. Well, regardless of if you know your state representatives or not, get to know them. We have less than a month before they are in session. This is the time to, respectfully, call, and/or E-mail them and explain to them your point of view.

The Wyoming Business Council’s Agribusiness Division is offering display space to Wyoming producers of natural and organic products at the Natural Products Expo West (NPEW) trade show in Anaheim, Calif., March 7-10, 2013. With more than 60,000 industry members attending each year, NPEW features more than 3,000 exhibitors, buyers and owners of natural foods stores, gyms, restaurants, grocery stores and gourmet shops. “This is a great way for manufacturers of natural and organic goods in Wyoming to get in front of buyers who are looking for these types of products,” said Donn Randall, Crop and Forage Program manager at the Business Council, who manages the state’s value-added food program. The Business Council will have a booth at the show to display Wyoming-made products and/or literature. Companies participating will be provided two feet of table space to display product samples and literature. Businesses will be chosen on a firstcome-first-served basis. The deadline to submit products is Jan. 26, 2013 and the cost of attending is $200, a significant savings for businesses that would otherwise pay $6,500 for their own display space. “An added benefit for the companies who will be participating this year will be the Western United States Agricultural Trade

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It’s Donating Time Again

The Campbell County Observer is now taking donations for our Readers Choice Scholarship. The Observer is hoping to raise $1,000.00 this year for a scholarship that will be given to a student from Wright (Panthers) or Gillette (Camels). Students will be presenting the Observer with an essay, which the readers will vote on their favorite and the most deserving. The only conditions are that the student must graduate from either Wright High School or Gillette High School and will be attending Gillette College in the fall. The scholarship will be put in their account at Gillette College by the Campbell County Observer. “We are the local newspaper, we take our community that we live and work in very personal. So we decided to do everything we can to keep the money local,” said Observer owner Nicholas De Laat. “And, community college attendees do not get the ﬁnancial help from scholarships at the same level as the kids going to Uni-

versities.” Observer owner Candice De Laat stated that “The money is donated by community, given to a young adult from our community, and spent on further education in our community…for our community. This is what we are all about, from the owners to the workers of our company.” The Campbell County Observer has donated over $68,000.00 in money, advertising, and product to help local charities so far in 2012. “And this in only our second year in business!” said Mrs. De Laat. “The more we grow, the more we give.” She does not, however, want to discount the most important part of giving to these local charities. “Our customers and subscribers are the glue that holds everything together. If you want to thank someone for all the giving, thank them. They deserve it most!” To donate to the Campbell County Observer’s Readers Choice Scholarship go to their website at www.CampbellCountyObserver.net or call (307) 670-8980.

Association (WUSATA), match-making event being held during the tradeshow,” said Randall. “This event should really increase the exposure for our Wyoming food companies with the Canadian all natural food buyers.” Interested Wyoming businesses should contact Randall at 307.777.6578 or donn. randall@wyo.gov. The Agribusiness Division works with agricultural producers to ﬁnd ways to diversify their income through value-added goods, and consumer-ready products and commodities to sustain ranching and farming operations, create jobs, increase competitiveness in the national and international marketplaces and stimulate industry growth.

Who’s Brand is this in Campbell County? Answer from last week Kerry Hayden

STATE OF WYOMING (2013) 13LSO-0066.W3 DRAFT ONLY NOT APPROVED FOR INTRODUCTION HOUSE BILL NO. Highway funding. Sponsored by: (s) Hdraft A BILL for AN ACT relating to revenue for transportation purposes; increasing vehicle registration fees; increasing the fuel tax; and providing for an effective date. Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Wyoming: [SECTION 1 – Registration Fees] Section 1. W.S. 31-3-101(a)(ii) is amended to read: (a) Except as otherwise provided, the following fees shall accompany each application for the registration of a vehicle: (ii) A state registration fee computed as follows: (A) Passenger cars .................$15.0025.00 (B) School buses ...................$10.0025.00 (C) House trailers .................$15.0025.00 (D) Motorcycles and multipurpose vehicles ............... $12.0025.00 (E) Other noncommercial vehicles based on unladen weight: (I) 1,000 pounds or less.......$ 2.0010.00 (II) 1,001 to 3,500 pounds.....$15.0030.00 (III) 3,501 to 4,500 pounds....$20.0040.00 (IV) 4,501 to 5,500 pounds.....$30.0060.00 (V) 5,501 to 6,000 pounds......$40.0080.00 (VI) 6,001 pounds or more......$60.00120.00 [SECTION 2 – Fuel Tax] Section 2. 39-17-104(a)(intro) and (i), 39-17-111(c)(ii) through (iv) and 3917-204(a)(intro) and (i) are amended to read: 39-17-104. Taxation rate. (a) Except as otherwise provided by this section and W.S. 39-17-105, the total tax on gasoline shall be fourteen cents ($.14) twenty-four cents ($.24) per gallon. The rate shall be imposed as follows: (i) There is levied and shall be collected a license tax of thirteen cents ($.13) twenty-three cents ($.23) per gallon on all gasoline used, sold or distributed for sale or use in this state except for those fuels exempted under W.S. 39-17-105; 39-17-111. Distribution. (c) The department shall certify to the state treasurer amounts to be credited to appropriate accounts based upon deductions from the taxes collected under this article in the following order: (ii) Deduct an amount collected on fuel used in snowmobiles, computed by multiplying the number of snowmobiles for which registration and user fees have been paid during the current fiscal year under W.S. 31-2-404(a) (i) and 31-2-409(a)(ii) times sixteen dollars and twenty-five cents ($16.25) twenty-eight dollars and seventy-five cents ($28.75) plus the number of gallons of gasoline used by snowmobiles for which registration fees have been paid during the current fiscal year under W.S. 31-2-404(a)(ii) times the current gasoline tax rate as defined by W.S. 39-17-104(a)(i). The number of gallons used by commercial snowmobiles shall be reported to the department by all businesses offering commercial snowmobile recreational leasing. The amounts computed shall be credited to a separate account to be expended by the department of state parks and cultural resources to improve snowmobile trails in Wyoming; (iii) Deduct an amount collected on fuel used in motorboats, computed by multiplying the number of motorboats numbered during the current fiscal year under W.S. 41-13-102 and five thousand (5,000) nonresident motorboats times sixteen dollars and twenty-five cents ($16.25) twenty-eight dollars and seventy-five cents ($28.75). The amount computed shall be credited to a separate account to be expended by the department of state parks and cultural resources to improve facilities for use by motorboats and motorboat users at state parks and state recreation areas and to provide grants to governmental entities for improvement of publicly owned boating 18 facilities at public parks and recreational facilities; (iv) Until June 30, 2013, deduct an amount collected on fuel used in off-road recreational vehicles, computed by multiplying the number of off-road recreational vehicles for which user registration fees have been paid during the current fiscal year under W.S. 31-2-703(a) times ten dollars and forty cents ($10.40) eighteen dollars and forty cents ($18.40). The amount computed shall be credited to a separate account to be expended by the department of state parks and cultural resources to improve off-road recreational vehicle trails in Wyoming. 39-17-204. Taxation rate. (a) Except as otherwise provided by this section and W.S. 39-17-205, the total tax on diesel fuels shall be fourteen cents ($.14) twenty-four cents ($.24) per gallon. The rate shall be imposed as follows: (i) There is levied and shall be collected a license tax of thirteen cents ($.13) twenty-three cents ($.23) per gallon on all diesel fuels used, sold or distributed for sale or use in this state; Section 3. This act is effective July 1, 2013.

Public Pulse

Campbell County Observer

December 7 - 14, 2012

Wyoming StateWide -Agency Budget Summary Description

Code

GOVERNOR’S OFFICE SECRETARY OF STATE STATE AUDITOR STATE TREASURER DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION AND INFORMATION WYOMING MILITARY DEPARTMENT PUBLIC DEFENDERS OFFICE WYOMING PIPELINE AUTHORITY AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE BOARD OF ARCHITECTS & LANDSCAP WYOMING EUTHANASIA CERT. BOARD MINERS’ HOSPITAL BOARD ATTORNEY GENERAL BARBER EXAMINER’S BOARD RADIOLOGIC TECH. BOARD REAL ESTATE COMMISSION PROF TEACHING STDS BOARD ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY DEPARTMENT OF AUDIT RESPIRATORY CARE PRACTITIONERS BOARD PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION STATE PARKS & CULTURAL RESOURCES SCHOOL FACILITIES COMMISSION BD OF REGISTRATION IN PODIATRY WYO WATER DEVELOPMENT OFFICE BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINER COLLECTION AGENCY BOARD WYOMING INFRASTRUCTURE AUTHORITY BOARD OF COSMETOLOGY BOARD OF DENTAL EXAMINERS BOARD OF EMBALMERS BOARD OF MIDWIFERY STATE ENGINEER PARI-MUTUEL COMMISSION WILDLIFE/NATURAL RES TRUST GAME AND FISH COMMISSION FIRE PREVENTION GEOLOGICAL SURVEY DIETETICS LICENSING BOARD INSURANCE DEPARTMENT WY TRANSPORTATION DEPT. BOARD OF MARTIAL ARTS DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY SERVICES LIVESTOCK BOARD MEDICAL LICENSING BOARD DWS-DOE BOARD OF NURSING OIL & GAS COMMISSION BOARD OF OPTOMETRY COMMUNITY COLLEGE COMMISSION BD OF SPEECH PATHOLOGIST & AUD BOARD OF PHARMACY STATE LANDS AND INVESTMENTS WYOMING BOARD OF CPA’S BOARD OF PHYSICAL THERAPY GOVERNOR’S RESIDENCE BOARD OF HEARING AID SPECIALIS BOARD OF ATHLETIC TRAINING WYOMING TOURISM BOARD UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING BD OF PSYCHOLOGIST EXAMINERS WICHE ENHANCED OIL REC COMMISS RETIREMENT SYSTEM BOARD OF OUTFITTERS WYOMING DEPARTMENT OF ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONS LIC BOARD OF NURSING HOME ADMIN DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS BOARD OF PAROLE BOARD OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY BOARD OF PROF. GEOLOGISTS WYOMING BUSINESS COUNCIL DISTRICT ATTORNEY/JUD. DIST. 1 DISTRICT ATTORNEY/JUD. DIST. 7 CO. & PROS. ATTORNEYS UW - MEDICAL EDUCATION EDUCATION-SCHOOL FINANCE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COUNCIL VETERINARY MEDICINE ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS TOTAL BY DIVISION PERSONAL SERVICES SUPPORTIVE SERVICES RESTRICTIVE SERVICES CENT. SERV./DATA SERV. SPACE RENTAL GRANTS & AID PAYMENT CAPITAL EXPENDITURES NON-OPERATING EXPENDITURES CONTRACTUAL SERVICES UNSPECIFIED TOTAL BY OBJECT SERIES GENERAL FUND/BRA FEDERAL FUNDS OTHER FUNDS TOTAL BY FUNDS

001 002 003 004 005 006 007 008 009 010 011 012 013 014 015 016 017 018 019 020 021 022 023 024 027 028 029 030 031 032 033 034 035 036 037 038 039 040 041 042 043 044 045 046 048 049 051 052 053 054 055 056 057 058 059 060 061 062 063 064 065 066 067 068 069 070 072 075

AppropriationETS Position Removal of OneBudget Bill Movement Time Funding 35,043,043 210,454 (1,250,000) 7,899,984 0 (377,000) 29,082,381 0 (4,526,740) 66,852,245 0 (618,336) 261,126,163 0 (202,953) 707,900,357 338,946 (58,137,526) 95,752,548 (488,150) (40,317,305) 25,839,181 0 (422,396) 1,206,928 0 0 39,665,755 0 (2,615,543) 231,334,051 (865,722) (1,078,021) 226,323 0 0 4,000 0 0 5,953,371 0 0 88,390,550 (679,359) (1,734,339) 42,935 0 0 112,610 0 0 1,284,956 0 0 1,433,617 0 0 219,612,390 (671,347) (15,256,535) 25,381,429 0 (466,966) 70,551 0 0 15,680,487 0 0 57,045,661 (291,349) (8,821,084) 113,522,921 0 0 36,029 0 0 15,088,535 0 (6,975,000) 77,097 0 0 131,761 0 0 1,689,144 0 0 793,199 0 0 350,795 0 0 56,667 0 0 21,790 0 (13,390) 29,986,597 (329,618) (599,468) 840,984 0 0 24,684,031 0 (16,000,000) 9,839,071 0 (302,367) 7,551,729 0 (351,011) 5,647,518 0 (140,308) 21,908 0 0 61,567,609 0 0 270,305,369 0 (21,704,514) 0 0 0 1,839,030,922 (880,843) (530,000) 279,636,435 (2,279,114) 0 17,631,652 0 (255,176) 1,833,708 0 0 220,544,148 0 (500,000) 2,945,619 0 0 10,816,045 0 0 93,210 0 0 294,231,107 0 (38,841,168) 60,833 0 0 1,405,127 0 0 268,916,010 (1,397,779) (135,531,653) 616,295 0 0 179,673 0 0 733,031 0 0 34,499 0 0 23,996 0 0 28,733,263 0 (3,160,000) 436,292,576 0 (44,670,000) 139,331 0 0 5,180,730 0 0 5,854,823 0 0 13,848,438 0 0 923,552 0 0

FY2014 Budget 17,001,748 3,761,492 12,277,820 33,116,954 130,461,605 325,050,888 27,473,546 12,708,392 603,464 18,525,106 114,695,154 113,162 2,000 2,976,686 42,988,426 21,468 56,305 642,478 716,808 101,842,254 12,457,232 35,276 7,840,244 23,966,614 56,761,460 18,014 4,056,768 38,548 65,880 844,572 396,600 175,398 28,334 4,200 14,528,756 420,492 4,342,016 4,768,352 3,600,359 2,753,605 10,954 30,783,804 124,300,428 0 918,810,040 138,678,660 8,688,238 916,854 110,022,074 1,472,810 5,408,022 46,605 127,694,970 30,416 702,564 65,993,289 308,148 89,836 366,516 17,250 11,998 12,786,632 195,811,288 69,666 2,590,365 2,927,412 6,924,219 461,776

Standard 8% Reduction (517,283) (260,046) (982,226) (612,018) (752,623) (3,162,650) (691,107) (984,054) (48,277) (1,185,013) (759,546) 0 0 0 (2,570,118) 0 0 0 0 (1,425,806) (599,565) 0 0 (1,290,127) 0 0 0 0 0 (67,566) 0 0 0 0 (1,116,355) 0 (27,361) (349,428) (291,838) (220,887) 0 (240,000) (2,592,714) 0 0 (8,180,235) (359,196) 0 (1,044,955) 0 (156,373) 0 (9,990,017) 0 0 (2,876,819) 0 0 (29,321) 0 0 (1,023,000) (15,664,903) 0 (207,229) (234,193) (1,310) 0

Revised Appropriation 34,525,760 7,639,938 28,100,155 66,240,227 260,373,540 704,737,707 95,061,441 24,855,127 1,158,651 38,480,742 230,574,505 226,323 4,000 5,953,371 85,820,432 42,935 112,610 1,284,956 1,433,617 218,186,584 24,781,864 70,551 15,680,487 55,755,534 113,522,921 36,029 15,088,535 77,097 131,761 1,621,578 793,199 350,795 56,667 21,790 28,870,242 840,984 24,656,670 9,489,643 7,259,891 5,426,631 21,908 61,327,609 267,712,655 0 1,839,030,922 271,456,200 17,272,456 1,833,708 219,499,193 2,945,619 10,659,672 93,210 284,241,090 60,833 1,405,127 266,039,191 616,295 179,673 703,710 34,499 23,996 27,710,263 420,627,673 139,331 4,973,501 5,620,630 13,847,128 923,552

077 078 079 080 081 083 084 085 151 157 160 167 205 211 220 251 270

64,115,620 7,711,733 279,965 0 45,844 0 312,195,630 (377,852) 1,770,819 0 94,777 0 442,459 0 88,369,205 0 4,236,698 0 4,022,551 0 6,149,895 0 45,422,368 0 1,657,126,327 0 1,782,690 0 902,070 0 135,655 0 3,890,240 0 8,079,842,106 0

(6,565,306) 0 0 (1,515,885) 0 0 0 0 0 (13,350) 0 (2,376,380) 0 (17,538) (35,000) 0 0 (415,922,258)

32,631,024 139,982 22,922 155,150,946 885,410 47,388 221,230 44,184,602 2,118,349 2,004,600 3,074,948 21,522,994 828,563,164 882,576 433,535 67,828 1,945,120 3,831,959,924

(1,155,365) 0 0 (11,527,561) (70,833) 0 0 (3,148,800) (169,468) (168,968) (245,996) (1,265,358) 0 (70,606) (34,682) 0 0 (78,371,796)

62,960,255 279,965 45,844 300,668,069 1,699,986 94,777 442,459 85,220,405 4,067,230 3,853,583 5,903,899 44,157,010 1,657,126,327 1,712,084 867,388 135,655 3,890,240 8,001,470,310

0100 0200 0300 0400 0500 0600 0700 0800 0900 UN

1,205,223,652 315,407,358 39,957,983 38,626,769 18,186,322 4,760,233,000 174,544,806 794,117,079 733,545,137 0 8,079,842,106

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

(891,254) (12,944,726) 0 (527,329) 0 (151,606,022) (174,543,806) (23,005,408) (52,403,713) 0 (415,922,258)

602,166,199 151,231,316 19,978,992 19,049,720 9,093,161 2,304,313,489 500 385,555,836 340,570,712 0 3,831,959,924

(10,821,286) (7,135,108) 0 (52,335) (82,427) (40,516,371) 0 (701,996) (19,062,273) 0 (78,371,796)

1,194,402,366 308,272,250 39,957,983 38,574,434 18,103,895 4,719,716,629 174,544,806 793,415,083 714,482,864 0 8,001,470,310

G X Z

3,130,082,216 1,608,643,549 3,341,116,341 8,079,842,106

0 0 0 0

(332,838,468) (32,957,503) (50,126,287) (415,922,258)

1,398,621,874 787,843,023 1,645,495,027 3,831,959,924

(74,489,527) (3,555,015) (327,254) (78,371,796)

3,055,592,689 1,605,088,534 3,340,789,087 8,001,470,310

7,305 321 246 7.872

0 0 0 0

(4) 0 0 (4)

3,650 160 123 3.934

(53) (5) (4) (62)

7,252 316 242 7.810

FULL TIME EMPLOYEE COUNT PART TIME EMPLOYEE COUNT AWEC EMPLOYEE COUNT TOTAL AUTHORIZED EMPLOYEES

Weekly Weather Forecast Saturday,

Sunday,

Monday,

Tuesday,

Wednesday,

Thursday,

Friday,

Dec. 8

Dec. 9

Dec. 10

Dec. 11

Dec. 12

Dec. 13

Dec. 14

33/9

23/15

39/21

36/22

41/20

40/19

36/21

Snow: 30% Wind: NW at 15 Sunrise: 7:25 Solar noon: 11:54 Sunset: 16:23 Moonrise: 1:44 Moonset: 13:03 Day length: 8h 58m

Snow: 0% Wind: WNW at 10

Sunrise: 7:26 Solar noon: 11:54 Sunset: 16:23 Moonrise: 2:56 Moonset: 13:38 Day length: 8h 57m

Rain: 10% Wind: WNW at 15 Sunrise: 7:27 Solar noon: 11:55 Sunset: 16:23 Moonrise: 4:10 Moonset: 14:18 Day length: 8h 56m

Rain: 0% Wind: WSW at 15 Sunrise: 7:28 Solar noon: 11:55 Sunset: 16:23 Moonrise: 5:25 Moonset: 15:07 Day length: 8h 55m

Rain: 0% Wind: WSW at 15 Sunrise: 7:28 Solar noon: 11:56 Sunset: 16:23 Moonrise: 6:36 Moonset: 16:04 Day length: 8h 55m

Weekly Weather Forecast Sponsored by

Rain: 10% Wind: WSW at 15 Sunrise: 7:29 Solar noon: 11:56 Sunset: 16:23 Moonrise: 7:41 Moonset: 17:10 New Moon: 1:43 Day length: 8h 54m

Rain: 0% Wind: WSW at 13 Sunrise: 7:30 Solar noon: 11:57 Sunset: 16:23 Moonrise: 8:36 Moonset: 18:22 Day length: 8h 53m

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Public Pulse

Governor Builds for the future with Budget Proposal

Governor Matt Mead’s budget proposal focuses on a more efficient and effective government that positions Wyoming well for the future. The supplemental budget proposal, submitted to the Legislature today, combines reductions in spending and reductions in the size of government with investments in important one-time projects. The Governor’s recommendations reduce ongoing spending by over $60 million per year, which is more than a 6% annual reduction in ongoing general fund spending, and eliminates 86 vacant positions. “I believe my proposed budget continues our history of fiscal conservatism and lays out specific ideas that ensure a bright future for Wyoming,” Governor Mead said. “The comprehensive approach we have taken is needed to deal with revenues that are flattening out, with the costs of a historic fire season and with a loss of $700 million in Abandoned Mine Land money.” Governor Mead’s proposed reductions exceed the 4% that the Legislature proactively asked state agencies to prepare for fiscal year 2014. Governor Mead had asked agencies to propose 8% cuts in light of lowered natural gas prices and ongoing state spending that more than doubled over the last decade. Agencies submitted proposals to Governor Mead and he reviewed those proposals thoroughly before making his own recommendations today. “These reductions build on my efforts to solidify a long-term philosophy of government that operates optimally in all years – the lean and the abundant,” Governor Mead said. “It was important to me that these reductions be sustainable so we move forward with a smaller state government for the long haul.” Governor Mead said, “We do not take our fiscal strength for granted. We know we cannot continue on the trajectory of the decade past, where the standard budget more than doubled.” The proposed budget reductions include a 10% decrease for the Governor’s Office and Governor’s Residence. For other agencies Governor Mead reviewed each proposal and made decisions on an agency-by-agency basis. The Governor recommends closer to 6% reductions for UW and the community colleges. The Department of Health is not part of the proposed reductions because the Legislature separately reduced its budget by 4% for fiscal year 2014. Fiscal Policy Recommendations – Planning for Tomorrow “Wyoming through thoughtful Legislative planning and prudent budgeting has built strong reserves both permanent and as backstops that can be spent in unforeseen circumstances,” Governor Mead wrote in a letter to legislators that accompanied his budget proposal. He emphasized that now is an appropriate time to review the state’s investment structure. He also made several bold recommendations that will help Wyoming weather future fiscal storms and maintain a conservative fiscal course in times of abundance. Currently 2.5% percent of severance taxes go into the Permanent Mineral Trust Fund (PMTF). Of that percentage, 1.5% are constitutionally directed and 1% are statutorily directed. Governor Mead is proposing that the statutory 1% of the revenue instead go into an account that can used in tough fiscal times called the “Rainy Day Account.” He also proposes that new coal lease bonuses be deposited into the same account. The money from coal leases now goes to the School Capitol Construction Account (SCCA). The Governor’s proposal continues to build the SCCA to $600 million for the next five years without the additional new coal bonuses. “It is proper that all available resources set aside for ‘rainy days’ be housed in a single pool – this allows decisions to be made considering the total circumstances and Wyoming’s obligations to its entire citizenry – whether they be school children, college students, adults with developmental disabilities, businesses seeking startup funds or recreationists visiting state parks,” Governor Mead wrote. His proposal is that both the redirected 1% and new coal lease bonuses be deposited into a single account to build a balance that is substantial enough to provide a backstop for general obligations and for funding schools, if circumstances necessitate. These proposals make for more transparent government because they place all the savings into a single account rather than depositing them in several places that can create confusion. Governor Mead agrees with the Legislature’s direction related to investment income. He would include capital gains as part of forecasted revenue, the same as for severance and sales taxes. Governor Mead points out that Wyoming continues to benefit from prudent investments and has seen significant revenue from those investments. However, because all investment income is not included in revenue forecasts it cannot be used when planning future budgets. Governor Mead said, “In lean years, like those we now face, a conscious decision to ignore significant revenue – revenue we know about – in making official revenue projections does a disservice to Wyoming and limits my ability to prepare rational budgets.” Efficient and Effective Government Governor Mead’s proposal includes a salary increase for employees across all of state government, including UW, colleges and non-judge employees in the judiciary. His proposal is for $8.5 million in salary increases and $2.5 million in onetime merit based bonuses. “No business succeeds without a qualified, motivated workforce – employ-

ees are our most valuable asset. They are the core of effective, efficient government,” Governor Mead said. His proposal is based on the comprehensive employee performance management system, which was finalized in late 2011 and provides expectations and goals and feedback for employees to help them improve and succeed. Wyoming represents a model of how government should work, but there is room to improve efficiency and transparency in rules and regulations. Wyoming has nearly 18,000 rules from state agencies. Governor Mead is proposing to review the rules on the books and to formulate a plan to reduce and simplify them. “I want citizens to clearly see and understand the purpose of a rule and make sure it is easy for them to comply with any rule.” Investments in Tomorrow Governor Mead’s budget is a strong investment in Wyoming’s future. Education, workforce training and workforce safety are priorities for his administration. This budget maintains funding for K-12 education and school construction. He recommends salary increases for employees of the University and colleges, trimmed cuts for UW and the colleges from 8% to 6% and does not reduce spending for workforce training or safety programs. There were no reductions recommended for tuition programs that support veterans. “Investing in education ensures our citizens have economic opportunity and businesses can rely on a talented Wyoming workforce,” Governor Mead said. Governor Mead also proposes other one-time expenditures important to Wyoming’s future. These include money for: local governments, landfills, the Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust, replenishing the data center recruitment fund, and the GilletteMadison water project. “These proposals improve Wyoming’s future while not growing next year’s budget. They build on our successes in diversifying the economy, protect our natural resources and improve the quality of life for Wyoming citizens,” Governor Mead said. This year a record 550,000 acres burned across Wyoming. Fire costs totaled about $108 million and the state’s share is nearly half of that total. To cover the shortfall in fire funding and prepare for next year Governor Mead proposes $60 million from the $150 million the Legislature set aside last session as a safeguard against a revenue shortfall. “By doing this Wyoming will adequately prepare for what could be another challenging fire season. Fire falls squarely into this safety net and this recommendation will leave Wyoming prepared to meet its commitment to safety with confidence,” Governor Mead said. Roads and Highways The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) asked for an additional $50 million from the general fund. WYDOT estimates $134 million per year is needed to maintain Wyoming’s roads. Governor Mead rejected WYDOT’s request for one-time funding. “Every part of Wyoming’s economy relies on an effective, well-maintained and continually improved highway system. WYDOT projects are planned years into the future – good planning, reasonable costs and effective management can only be achieved through reliable, long-term funding,” Governor Mead said. He said this year is the time to develop a long-term solution and, of all the funding sources, he believes fuel tax is the most fair and least expensive for Wyoming citizens. He added that in the event the Legislature does not pass an increase, lawmakers should earmark a like amount of revenue for highways from mineral revenues. Health The Wyoming Department Health receives the largest share of the state funding. For this biennium DOH will get just under $1 billion from the general fund and Budget Reserve Account. Of that more than half of the budget goes to the Medicaid program. Both of these totals account for a 4% reduction of funding for fiscal year 2014 that was passed earlier this year. Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), states are required to expand Medicaid for certain populations. Governor Mead approved an increase of $6.7 million for that required expansion. He denied the optional expansion of Medicaid and asks for a public discussion exploring the effects of Medicaid expansion on Wyoming’s people. He also believes the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) needs to finalize regulations and answer states’ questions about expansion. In his message to lawmakers Governor Mead wrote, “My office will continue to work with HHS to get as many answers as possible to enable us to make a decision this session. I stand ready to work with you on this important question – understanding as do you that it will have far-reaching implications no matter what is decided.” The ACA also requires the establishment of a health insurance exchange. A health insurance exchange can be run by the federal government, by an individual state or by a partnership. The first deadline to choose which of these options Wyoming prefers is January 2013. Unanswered questions and legislative conditions make it likely that when these exchanges start operating in 2014 Wyoming will have a federal exchange. However, Wyoming can opt at any time to change to one of the other options. Governor Mead recommends $100,000 to assist in the process of deciding which option is best for Wyoming. “Now is the time to be proactive and decide what exchange is the best for Wyoming in the long term.”

December 7 - 14, 2012

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, I am writing to express my extreme anger and frustration at our President, Cabinet Members, and Congress Members for continuing to dwell on the four Americans that were killed at the embassy in Benghazi. First, these so-called representatives and law-makers of our U.S. Government made this tragedy a political stomping ground during the Presidential campaigning even after The Ambassador’s father told the press that he knew his son would not appreciate this! Second, I ask the question, “Why in the name of fairness in humanity do the deaths of these four men merit any more attention than do the deaths of thousands of U.S. Troops that have died and are continuing to die for these asinine excuses of two wars !” These two wars have been going on during most of The Bush Administration and will go on until 2014 according to our President Obama. I voted for President Obama twice, but I am at my rope’s end to stay silent about this un-winnable Afghan War ! Why, in the name of good common American sense does The President, Cabinet Members, and Congress Members think that continuing to fight until 2014 is going to make any difference what-so-ever ! As I just said, “I voted for President Obama twice, but if he continues this idiotic Afghan War; even one more day; then The Congress has the DUTY to impeach him, and The Senate has the DUTY to convict him out of office for continuing to put Americans in harm’s way for absolutely no good reason !” This Afghan War is no more protection of U.S. security than guarding against “the man in the moon !” Finally, I am very disappointed in any American that has the ability to read, write, and / or call their Senators and Congressmen to express their anger toward these two asinine wars that have lasted “far-too-long !” PLEASE, I beg of you, “Do our patriotic duty and tell our U.S. Government to get The U.S. Troops out of harm’s way, NOW !” Timothy Manerois From Columnist Glenn Woods: I did not vote for President Obama, TWICE. But you know I actually agree with what he is doing in Afghanistan; he is continuing the Bush plan and pulling out slowly, when the Afghans are ready to handle the load. Pulling out too quick leaves a vacuum, which would make all the work our brave troops have done until now, and the sacrifices they have made, worthless. Dear Editor, Every year our local police and fire departments issue tips to help make it a safer holiday season for everyone, but the burglary and house fire rates are still high. In fact, the FBI reports around 400,000 burglaries occur during the holidays each year and according to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), approximately 390 home fires and 21 deaths are caused by either a Christmas tree, holiday lights, or other decorative lighting occur each year. A new survey by Nextdoor (the free and private social network for neighborhoods) found that the rates are still high because many of us are not actually following the tips. According to Nextdoor’s survey, nearly 60 percent of Americans don’t follow common safety precautions to protect their home from theft (specifically 38 percent do not tell a neighbor they’re going out of town, and 19 percent leave their house key in a nearby hiding place while they’re away). In addition nearly 50 percent of Americans engaged in decorating habits that increase home fire danger (specifically 34 percent connect multiple extension cords together, and 16 percent put up holiday lights without inspecting them for frayed cords). A full breakdown of specific tips that were not followed can be found here. Many don’t know how easy it is for an accident to happen. But if you follow these safety tips from State Farm or these fire safety tips from the CPSC you increase your chances of making it through the holidays unscathed. The holiday season can be a

very busy and stressful time for many Americans, so its important to remind residents to use common sense safety precautions during the holidays and throughout the year. Thanks, Whitney From Publisher Nicholas De Laat: Thanks for the info! Something everyone should know. Dear Editor, Apparently there needs some clarification! In the last edition of the CC Senior newsletter there was an article taken off the CCMH website and now in print in the Campbell County Observer which states and I quote “In 1992, under the CCMH umbrella, a small group of volunteers banded together to raise funds for the lifeline emergency response system.” In the Observer the above was stated and also added “the first year of trees emerged with 16 trees and wreaths auction raising $9172 and provides service for 20 lifeline subscribers. And now like Paul Harvey “here’s the rest of the story!” In 1982 there was a small band of us who formed the CCMH auxiliary. We happily pushed the Juice cart loaded with magazines for patients to enjoy -- we had our regular monthly meetings and ran the gift shop. Pat Rudolph who was our president, brought our attention to the lifeline emergency program. Jack and myself went to the County commissioners Bob Tanner (chairman), Bill Fitch, and Harry Underwood who readily gave us (I believe) either $6000 or $9000 for the computer base module to be located in the CCMH emergency room. I went back to the commissioners and receive $10,000 from revenue sharing money which we had our initial equipment purchase of the computer module and the 16 responders units -- the system became operational during March of 1983. The first lifeline was installed for a very dear little lady Dora Hayden by me and yes I have the picture that was in the news record. The other ladies were Betty La Borte, Ethel Cooper, Ira Mankin, Marie Jessen, Mary Ryan, Elaine Keeline, Tillie McClure, Sylvia Newton, Beulah Hamm, and one gentleman James Hatfield. I was the installation chairman of the lifeline. We always went to install it in teams of 2. “Ol 7” and myself donated for gold nuggets from our gold mine that was auctioned off at our hospital ball we had each year. As we were in the oilfield business and I knew the other contractors and audio for companies, I ran around an altogether gathered around $25,000 -- we all work hard to make the lifeline of success. The ones I remember were Pat Rudolph, Myrtle Wittler, Hazel Dampier, Arlene Young, Judy Birdie, Carolyn Walters, Ed and Lillie George, and there were others but I’m sorry to say I’ve slept since then and I do apologize to those missed. We all were very proud of our accomplishment! Ed Fry Jr. was the administrator. Jim Towe Jr. was the director of community relations/ development. Vernon Addison made out the warrant number 12-355 on 3-02 of 84 for the sum of $10,000. It was a community project that was accepted as a useful tool to keep the elderly and their homes longer. I am, and will always be, proud to say that Gillette is the best place to live! But please let’s keep our story straight sure my little but a memory book with anybody wanting to see it seeing is believing! From Publisher Nicholas De Laat: That article in our paper last week was a press release, and we cannot change the information provided. But thank you very much for this much indepth information! These are things that our great community should know about, and should be written down in our local history. Now it is, and published thanks to your very informative letter. As long as local residents generations from now can still read and have the ability to look at the newspaper archives at the library, they will know this valuable piece of history! Thank you very much for writing in.

Public Pulse

Campbell County Observer

December 7 - 14, 2012

Governor asks AG to intervene in Uranium lawsuit

Governor Matt Mead instructed the Wyoming Attorney General to ﬁle a motion to intervene in the lawsuit over in-situ uranium mining at the Lost Creek Mine. The motion was ﬁled this week in U.S. District Court for the District of Wyoming. An environmental group seeks to shut the project down over concerns to wildlife and groundwater. Governor Mead is seeking to intervene to protect Wyoming’s interests in the project. “Wyoming has put a lot of resources into making sure this mine operates in a safe and responsible manner,” Governor Mead said. “This project provides energy for the nation, jobs for Wyoming and revenue to local, state and federal governments.” The Lost Creek Mine is in Sweetwater County and the project area includes a section of state land. Wyoming estimates it will receive over $19 million in severance tax revenue and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) estimates 160 jobs would result. “Work on permitting this project started

New members join the Board of Trustees Submitted by CCMH Employees who tune in to the monthly broadcasts of the CCMH Board of Trustees will see two new faces at the next meeting on December 13. Randy Hite and Mike Dugan were elected to the Board November 6, and took their oath of ofﬁce on November 14, along with incumbent Trustee Joe Hallock, who was reelected. Randy Hite is a Physical Therapist and a partner in Gillette Physical Therapy. He hopes to bring his healthcare background and experience in managing a successful healthcare business to the Board. He worked at CCMH for eight years before joining Gillette Physical Therapy, and feels he has a vested interest in the reputation of the hospital. “I want to bring back cus-

tomer satisfaction and employee morale,” said Randy. “As healthcare professionals, we are there for the customer, not for ourselves. Sometimes it takes a lot for employees to always bring the best for the customer, but that’s we what signed up for.” Mike Dugan is a loan ofﬁcer at First National Bank of Gillette. He is excited about the opportunity to serve, and can’t wait to experience his ﬁrst Board meeting. “I’m ready to dive right in,” said Mike. “I believe that there can be some great times for the hospital going forward in the next handful of years.” When asked about the strategic direction for CCMH, both Hite and Dugan emphasized the importance of listening to

employees and the medical staff. “I was one of them (a CCMH employee),” said Randy. “I believe employees need a voice in such a big organization.” “Everyone should have input,” said Mike. “We need to make sure we take care of what we have.” Relationships within the Board are also important to the two new members. “There can be seven different ideas, all pros and cons,” said Mike. “We need to be able to ﬁnd a middle ground, shake hands at the end of the day and go back to work the next day.” “It’s seven collective people on the Board,” said Randy. “But when a decision is made they’re not individuals.”

over ﬁve years ago and I believe state agencies and Ur-Energy have done sound work to protect Wyoming’s water and wildlife. This includes mitigating impacts to sage-grouse. Ur-Energy, as a company, committed to do things right,” Governor Mead said. He has determined that the project complies with the Greater Sage-Grouse Core Area Protection Executive Order. Wyoming has the most uranium reserves in the nation.

Who’s Brand is this in Campbell County? Find out in next week’s Campbell County Observer

Patriot Publishing is a small publishing business starting up right here in Wyoming. We not only publish the Campbell County Observer and calendars, but anything in print. We will soon also have a monthly publication that we think you will enjoy. If you have a book and can’t get a major company to publish you, we are a new and American-owned publisher that may print your work. Please feel free to contact us at anytime with your idea.

UW Report:

Wyoming Population Growth for the last decade highest in Energy-Producing counties Wyoming’s population growth rate ranked 11th nationally during 2000-2010 and energy producing counties, such as Sublette and Campbell counties, led in population growth, according to a University of Wyoming publication released today (Tuesday). Sublette County also had the highest percentage of second homes in Wyoming, and three-quarters of all new second homes were in the state’s northwestern corner, according to a second UW publication released today. The UW Open Spaces Initiative released two new publications that summarize the last decade of population and second home growth in Wyoming. “Population Growth in Wyoming, 2000–2010” and “Second Home Growth in Wyoming, 2000–2010” synthesize the decennial census data to detail growth trends around the state. The ﬁrst publication details population change at the state, county and city scale. “Recognizing changes in population growth patterns at the community, county

and state levels is important for identifying growth issues or planning needs,” says Tex Taylor, professor of Agriculture and Applied Economics at UW and the publications’ lead author. “While there’s an overall pattern of growth in Wyoming, different areas are experiencing different rates of population growth or decline.” The home growth publication shows that nearly one out of every ﬁve housing units outside cities, towns and unincorporated communities is currently a second home. “Wyoming’s spectacular scenic beauty and outdoor amenities unsurprisingly make it a popular place for a seasonal or temporary residence, and most of these residences are located in rural areas,” says Taylor. “The number of second homes in a community can alter community character and challenge local government ﬁnances, as residential developments tend to cost more in public services than they generate in tax revenue.”

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Gillette wrestlers win fourth straight Billings Invite

December 7 - 14, 2012

No pouting

By BOB ZELLAR/Gazette Staff

Reprinted with the permission of the Billings Gazzette in Billings, Montana If there was such a thing, a camel guard wouldn’t have stopped the Campbell County wrestling team Saturday afternoon. That’s because there was a Camel crossing to the championship round of the Billings Invitational at Billings Senior. The Campbell County Camels of Gillette, Wyo., rallied past Billings West in the championship round to claim their fourth straight Billings Invitational championship. Gillette, the 10-time defending Wyoming Class 4A state champion, has now won the Billings tourney four straight years and six of the last seven. With five individual champions and three runner-ups, the Camels finished with 260.5 points. Second-place West, which finished with 251 points, led Gillette 240-232 entering the finals. “We definitely had a fight tonight,” 12th-year Gillette coach Tom Seamans said. “West had an eight-point lead going into the finals. We won just enough.” Claiming titles for the Camels were Trent Olson (112 pounds), Evan Smith (119), Alex Lacasse (145), Lukas Poloncic (160) and Taylor Barbour (Hwt.). Poloncic, a two-time state champion and one-time runner-up, “sewed up” the tourney with his win Seamans said, adding Olson is a “freshman phenom.” Billings Skyview finished third and Billings Senior fourth. Laurel was sixth and Billings Central 14th. The Bears had champions in Dillon Hoppe at 105 pounds and Jake Leinwand at 189. Trayson Marker (112), Koby Reyes (140) and Brady Baxter (145) all were second for West. West coach Jeremy Hernandez said it’s his team’s best finish in the Billings Invite in his five years at the school. “It’s good for us. We are wrestling tough,” he said. “I’m real proud of the boys from JV to varsity. It’s all on the boys. They did all of the work. I’m glad they wrestled

their butts off.” Hoppe led 2-0 when he pinned Eddy Day of Laurel to win the title. Hoppe, a senior, said it is his first time placing at a tournament. Hoppe had competed the past three years at the Invite and is in his fifth year of wrestling. Next August, Hoppe will ship out to San Diego for basic training for the U.S. Marines and he is currently in their delayed-entry program. He plans on making a career with the Marines and he’s “always been looking at the armed forces. It fits me best.” In what may have been the highlight match of the finals, Skyview state champion Justin Waterson bested former Laurel state champion Karson Kukes 7-4 in the 135-pound tilt. “It feels good. It was a tough match,” Waterson said, noting it is his first Billings title. “I was really tired. He’s a tough kid. We go way back since fifth or sixth grade and we go back and forth. We are pretty even. It is a fight every time.” Falcon junior Jace Holman, who also won the Billings Invite as a freshman at 98, said he had motivation in his 125-pound champion-

ship match against Senior’s Matt Schmidt, last year’s 98-pound state champ. Holman wound up scoring the pinfall in 1:21. In describing what motivated him about facing Schmidt, Holman said besides going against a state champion, Schmidt had won his first two matches of the tourney convincingly, and then won 4-0 over Gillette’s Austin Zigray in the semifinals. “I was pumped and went out there and wanted to wrestle my match,” he said. “I knew he was good. “I was excited to wrestle him and to go against a state champion. That’s what I’m looking for this year.” Senior’s Greg Contreraz (130) joined Hoppe and Waterson as first-time Billings winners. Contreraz, a junior, made quick work of Belgrade’s Lyle Degen in the finals with a pin in 1:07. Contreraz said it was his second appearance in a championship match, taking second at the Eastern AA seeding tourney last season. “I just thought, ‘Don’t worry. Go and wrestle the match and not the man.’ That’s what coach (Lonnie) Robertson says,” Contre-

raz said. “It was just go out there and leave it all on the mat.” Laurel freshman Clayton Carter opened the ﬁnals with a 6-0 decision over Senior freshman Brendon Vladic at 98. Carter said his friends, family and Laurel teammates cheering him on made the difference. “It was what I expected for varsity,” he said, adding he had hopes of winning the tourney. The quick-pin winner was 152-pounder Kris Miller of Gillette, who had a ﬁrstround pin in nine seconds. Two outstanding wrestlers were named. At 98 to 135 pounds, the award went to Trent Olson (112) of Gillette. From 140 to heavyweight, Belgrade’s Bryce Weatherston (140) received the honor. Skyview’s Max Miller (152) and Thomas Walsh (215), along with Senior’s Luke Paine (171) also won titles. Read more:http://billingsgazette.com/

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Legion baseball winter meeting results By Kevin Koile - wyopreps.com

The legion baseball scene in Wyoming is changing about as much as college teams are changing conferences. Recently at the Legion Baseball Winter Meeting held in Casper, several teams announced their intention to move up to the ‘AA’ to ensure that there will be an 8 team tournament. Moving up will be Jackson Giants, Sheridan Troopers, Wheatland Lobos and the Cheyenne Hawks, to join the current 4 teams; Gillette Roughriders, Cheyenne Post 6, Casper Oilers, and Rock Springs Mustangs. The teams will split into 2 divisions and each team will play one 9-inning game

home and away vs. the other 3 teams in their division. Group 1 is Cheyenne Post 6, Casper Oilers, Sheridan Troopers, and Gillette Roughriders. Group 2 is Wheatland Lobos, Cheyenne Hawks, Rock Springs Mustangs and Jackson Giants. There is no need for a district tournament. The 2013 ‘AA’ state tournament will be held the ﬁrst weekend in August at Cheyenne. A rotation was set up for future ‘AA’ state tournaments to be held at Gillette (2014), Rock Springs (2015), Jackson (2016), Sheridan (2017) and Casper (2018). That leaves the remaining 12 teams in the ‘A’

league. Teams will be in 4 groups of 3, and teams will play 1 9-inning game vs. the other 2 teams in their division. The Northeast is Douglas, Gillette Rustlers and Casper Drillers. The Southeast is Torrington, Laramie and Rawlins. The Northwest is Cody, Powell, Lovell and the Southwest is Riverton, Green River and Evanston. District tournaments will be held July 2528 at Douglas (north) and Laramie (south). The State ‘A’ Tournament will be held in Gillette, the following weekend. Sheridan will host the ‘B’ State Tournament.

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December 7 - 14, 2012

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Girls Basketball Scores Tuesday, December 4th: Inter-Class: 3A Glenrock 35 2A Wright 32 #3 Gillette (1-0) won home vs. Green River, 81-38.

“I don’t want to give my opponent the satisfaction of watching me celebrate, which would make it look like a big deal that I beat him.” - Brent Metcalf-Iowa wrestler

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Campbell County Observer

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December 7 - 14, 2012

Relativistic Baseball

Campbell County Observer

What’s Going On In Sports?

What would happen if you tried to hit a baseball pitched at 90% the speed of light?

Friday, Dec. 07

• Tournament, Camel Boys Basketball (SO, JV, V), Gillette, 12pm • Tournament, Lady Camel Basketball (SO, JV, V), Gillette, 12pm • Lusk, Camel Wrestling Lusk Invite (JV2/JV, Lusk, 12pm • Casper, Boys Swimming and Diving (Relays), Casper, WY, 1pm • Pentathlon, Boys Swimming and Diving, Gillette, 9am • Coal Miners Classic, Lady Panther Basketball, Wright, 12am

Submitted by Josh Uzarski Let’s set aside the question of how we got the baseball moving that fast. We’ll suppose it’s a normal pitch, except in the instant the pitcher releases the ball; it magically accelerates to 0.9c. From that point onward, everything proceeds according to normal physics.

The answer turns out to be “a lot of things”, and they all happen very quickly, and it doesn’t end well for the batter (or the pitcher). I sat down with some physics books, a Nolan Ryan action ﬁgure, and a bunch of videotapes of nuclear tests and tried to sort it all out. What follows is my best guess at a nanosecond-by-nanosecond portrait: The ball is going so fast that everything else is practically stationary. Even the molecules in the air are stationary. Air molecules vibrate back and forth at a few hundred miles per hour, but the ball is moving through them at 600 million miles per hour. This means that as far as the ball is concerned, they’re just hanging there, frozen. The ideas of aerodynamics don’t apply here. Normally, air would ﬂow around anything moving through it. But the air molecules in front of this ball don’t have time to be jostled out of the way. The ball smacks into them so hard that the atoms in the air molecules actually fuse with the atoms in the ball’s surface. Each collision releases a burst of gamma rays and scattered particles.

Saturday, Dec. 08

• Tournament, Camel Boys Basketball (SO, JV, V), Gillette, 12pm • Tournament, Lady Camel Basketball (SO, JV, V), Gillette , 2pm • Coal Miners Classic, Lady Panther Basketball, Wright, 12am • Dawson, Pronghorn Mens Basketball, Gillette, 7:30pm • Dawson Community College, Lady Pronghorn Basketball, Gillette, 5:30pm • Billings, Gillette Wild, Gillette, 7pm

Sunday, Dec. 09

• Tournament, Camel Boys Basketball (SO, JV, V), Gillette, 12pm • Tournament, Lady Camel Basketball (SO, JV, V), Gil-

These gamma rays and debris expand outward in a bubble centered on the pitcher’s mound. They start to tear apart the molecules in the air, ripping the electrons from the nuclei and turning the air in the stadium into an expanding bubble of incandescent plasma. The wall of this bubble approaches the batter at about the speed of light—only slightly ahead of the ball itself.

The constant fusion at the front of the ball pushes back on it, slowing it down, as if the ball were a rocket flying tail-first while firing its engines. Unfortunately, the ball is going so fast that even the tremendous force from this ongoing thermonuclear explosion barely slows it down at all. It does, however, start to eat away at the surface, blasting tiny particulate fragments of the ball in all directions. These fragments are going so fast that when they hit air molecules, they trigger two or three more rounds of fusion. After about 70 nanoseconds the ball arrives at home plate. The batter hasn’t even seen the pitcher let go of the ball, since the light carrying that information arrives at about the same time the ball does. Collisions with the air have eaten the ball away almost completely, and it is now a bullet-shaped cloud of expanding plasma (mainly carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen) ramming into the air and triggering more fusion as it goes. The shell of x-rays hits the batter first, and a handful of nanoseconds later the debris cloud hits. When it reaches the batter, the center of the cloud is still moving at an appreciable fraction of the speed of light. It hits the bat first, but then the batter, plate, and catcher are all scooped up and carried backward through the backstop as they disintegrate. The shell of x-rays and superheated plasma expands outward and upward, swallowing the backstop, both teams, the stands, and the surrounding neighborhood—all in the first microsecond. Suppose you’re watching from a hilltop outside the city. The first thing you see is a blinding light, far outshining the sun. This gradually fades over the course of a few seconds, and a growing fireball rises into a mushroom cloud. Then, with a great roar, the blast wave arrives, tearing up trees and shredding houses. Everything within roughly a mile of the park is leveled, and a firestorm engulfs the surrounding city. The baseball diamond is now a sizable crater, centered a few hundred feet behind the former location of the backstop.

lette, 12pm • Coal Miners Classic, Lady Panther Basketball, Wright, 12am

5:30pm • Great Falls, Gillette Wild, Great Falls, 7:30pm

Tuesday, Dec. 11

• Ringwars, Equality Hall, 7pm-10pm • Pat Weede Memorial Invite, Camel Wrestling, Gillette S. Campus, 10am • Arvada Clearmont SO, Camel Boys Basketball, Arvada, 12am • Kaycee, Lady Camel Basketball, Gillette, 12:45pm • Riverton Duals, Camel Boys Swimming, Riverton, 4pm • Tournament, Lady Panther Basketball, Sheridan, 12pm • Great Falls, Gillette Wild, Great Falls, 7:30pm

• Sundance, Camel Wrestling (JV2), Sundance, 6pm

Wednesday, Dec. 12

• TBA, Lady Panther Basketball, Wright, WY, 12pm • TBA, Lady Panther Basketball, Gillette (Twin Spruce, 11am

Thursday, Dec. 13

• Kelly Walsh, Camel Wrestling (JV2/JV), Casper, 5pm • Hulett, Camel Wrestling (JV2), Hulett, 6pm

Friday, Dec. 14

• Pat Weede Memorial Invite, Camel Wrestling, Gillette S. Campus, 10am • Arvada Clearmont SO, Camel Boys Basketball, Arvada, 12am • Riverton Duals, Camel Boys Swimming, Riverton, 4pm • Clearmont, Lady Camel Basketball (SO), Clearmont, 4pm • Buffalo, Camel Wrestling (JV/Jv2), Buffalo, 6pm • Tournament, Lady Panther Basketball, Sheridan, 12pm • Sheridan, Pronghorn Mens Basketball, Sheridan, 7:30pm • Sheridan, Lady Pronghorn Basketball, Gillette,

Saturday, Dec. 15

Sunday, Dec. 16

• Tournament, Lady Panther Basketball, Sheridan, 12pm

What’s Going On Sponsor

C&R Limo Service We Make Any Occasion Special • Weddings • Birthdays • Out of Town Trips

Owners

Rose Schipansky 307-689-2065

Carl Christensen 307-696-9017

Twin Spruce wrestlers host tournament

On Tuesday December 4th, Twin Spruce hosted a tournament, the following teams teams sent wrestlers: Twin Spruce, Sage Valley, Wright, Douglas and Newcastle. Blaine Brink and Ethan Stovall earned the Heart Award for the week. The following are the top four placers for Twin Spruce: Grade Name Place 7 Stovall, Ethan 1 7 Izatt, Kolter 1 7 Delgrande, Rico 1 7 Snowden, Cooper 1 7 Potter, Tanner 1 7 Guzman, Gabe 1 7 Ramirez, Jonathon 1 8 Galambas, Colton 1 8 Abraham, Ethan 1 8 Switzer, Cody 1 8 Wandler, Rhyse 1 7 Harris, Xavier 2 8 Hunter, Tyler 2 8 Vincent, Paul 2 8 Gorton, Tucker 2 8 Guerrero, Logan 2 8 Hack, AJ 2 8 Johnston, Anthony 2 8 Smith, Xavier 2 8 Lechler, John 2 6 Johnston, David WW. 3 6 Hawley, Randy PW. 3 7 Miller, Bradly 3 8 Young, Johnny 3 8 Rettinghouse, Michael 3

8 8 6 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8

Means, Jeriah Essen, Mike Brink, Blaine RH. Robinson, John Mckillop, Tegen Knapp, Trevor Uran, Gabe Morris, Chris Shippy, Zach Palmer, Tabor Miller, Justice Gehrett, Colton

3 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Operation Butterfly

“Kids helping families with cancer.”

THANK YOU!!!

Amber C., Amber H., & Lexi M. would like to thank everyone who came to Octoberfest and donated to Operation Butterfly!

A careful reading of ofﬁcial Major League Baseball Rule 6.08(b) suggests that in this situation, the batter would be considered “hit by pitch”, and would be eligible to advance to ﬁrst base.

Operation Butterfly is a non-profit local cancer support group in Campbell County.

A Special Thanks to Black Thunder Coal Mine Campbell County Observer Kat’s Jewel Box Carrie Thomas • Dave Hays

ALL NON-SMOKING

For Your Dining Pleasure! 113 S. Gillette Avenue • www://gillettechophouse.com

Classiﬁeds

Campbell County Observer

Help Wanted Cook needed at Lu La Bells. Motivated and Energetic. Days Only. Apply at Lu La bells. PERSONAL ASSISTANCE NEEDED: We are looking for an Office Assistant. Duties include greeting clients, answering phones, and routing mail, data entry and retrieve,scheduling and calender maintenance,Ideal candidates will have proven customer service skills in an administrative setting and experience with Microsoft Office applications email resumes to akeelahanderson001@gmail.com IF INTERESTED Powder River Roofing, a growing company in N.E. Wyoming, is hiring full time roofers. Call 307-696-7465 for an interview.

Toy Parts & Accessories Stock pipes for Sportster. 500mi. Stock pices for Dyna Wide Glide. 1500mi. Email baxtersmom62@gmail.com for info. Rare ﬁnd. 1969 Pontiac Motor. 390 HP and 470 ft. torque stock from factory. Aluminum edelbrock intake goes with motor. Best offer takes it home. 307-6220825 (a1-39-tfnh) 1999 Vortec 350 Intake and heads. Make offer. 307-6220825 (a1-39-tfnh) Four 16 inch rims, ﬁve hole, with caps.$90 307 - 670 1887 Harley Accessories for sale. Call 307-670-8980. Ask for Tammy.

Campers & Motor Homes

Personal Assistant needed to organize and help. Basic computer skills needed, must be good with organization. I am ready to pay $600.00 per week. Interested person should contact: deans995@ gmail.com Bl-32-2V

1997 32ft. Class A Motor Home. Sleeps 6, Only 31,000 Miles. Asking $17,000. Call (307) 660-7520.

Full Time Flooring Installers wanted. Must have experience. Bring resumes in to Carpet Express Direct on Hwy. 59 next to the Prime Rib Restaurant.

Large Private RV/Camper Lot for rent. Big yard, trees. All utilities available. $400 per month, $400 deposit. 1 year lease. Call (307) 6601007.

Exciting new career. Unlimited income potential. Think you can sell? Call 307-2994662. We offer commission, fuel allowance, and much more. Sell in the Bighorn, Casper, Powder River, and Black Hills Area.

5th wheel camper for sale. Call Skip (307) 680-0073

Are you a friendly outgoing individual? Do you connect with people casually? Are you looking for supplemental income? Do you need to be in charge of your own hours? We are looking for an independent contractor for commissioned based ad sales. For more information call Sandra at 307-689-0028 or email at campbellcountytidbits@yahoo.com State Wide Sales people. Print Advertising Sales for new State-wide newspaper. Call 307-299-4662

Child Care Child Care in Sleepy Hollow. Room for 2 children. $20 per day per child. Call 307-257-2306.

Toys (ATV’s Boats, Etc.) BOAT FOR SALE. 18ft 120 port jet outboard bass tracker for sale. Call 307-680-5947 International Tractor 300 Utility For Sale. $2000 Artic Cat 4X4 2001For Sale. $2000 Call Bill 307 - 660 – 8563 94 Mazda MX3 for sale. $1500 obo. 307-670-2037 1988 Honda Gl1500 for free if interested contact me at ( james.bernard10@live.com ) 2010 Polaris 550 eps with less than 100 miles, books for $8,000. make and offer. Call Steve Terry at 307-2992992 Chopper - Custom built frame, s&s engine, carb, etc. 80ci. Evolution engine. Wide glide front end. Low. Torn apart down to frame. Have all parts, could be built in two days with under $200.00. Asking $5,500 or best offer. Price:$5,500obo. Contact: 307-670-2037 1981 Harley Davidson FXBSturgis, 1st dual-belt drive to commemorate Hill-Climb @ Sturgis, Jack-Pine Gypsies rally started in ‘41, 50th anniversary model. 12K on straight-up original paint, new Moetzler’s driven-by beefed Shovel, 102hp at wheel. Perfect in every aspect, serious inquiries only, loan is $15K and value of over 25K. Ben 680.7464, 3-other older bikes and this has to go to the right person! Custom Harley Soft tail. Being built, need to sell now. Almost ﬁnished. Chopper, built in Sturgis, SD. Asking $5,500 and will help you build it. HAVE ALL PARTS! Call 257-2306 Boat for Sale with trailer. Needs work. Call 670-8980 for info.

Personals Interested in founding a Sherlock Holmes Society in Gillette? Contact gillettesherlockians@gmail. com for info.

Camping/Fishing Minnows, crawlers, leeches, ﬁshing tackle, boating and camping supplies. Fully furnished cabin rentals, 50 Amp Full Hookup RV sites 5 minutes from Keyhole Reservoir in Pine Haven. Empire Guesthouse & RV Park 307756-3454. www.empireguesthouse.com

Business Opportunities Looking for investor in local business. Call for Details. 307-257-2306. Exciting career available Now! No weekends, holidays, or nights. Unlimited income potential. 20% commission plus gas allowance selling print advertising. Call Anne Peterson (advertising manager) at (307) 299-4662 or email AnnePeterson@ CampbellCountyObserver. com Health problems? Try doTERRA certiﬁed pure essential oils. 307-680-0363. www. myvoffice.com/healingisbelieving

Apartments for Rent 1-5 bedroom units available for rent. Please contact Real Estate Systems of Gillette Inc at 307-682-0964 for all the updated details. Apartment for Rent in WindRidge Appts. Water/Trash/ Washer/Dryer. Air and Heat. 3bs/2bth. Must qualify for low income housing. $740.00/ mo. Call 307-685-8066 Foothills View Apartments Hot Move In Special! Cool, Clean, Quiet Apartments. A/C, 2 Bdrm. $695 1Bdrm. $595. Showing anytime Call 307-686-6488 C3-28-2v Apartments for rent. Foothills View Apartments. Clean and Quiet. One and Two bedroom units starting at $595.00. Call for showing andmove in special 307-6866488 (c3-42-3v) Spacious & new, 1, 2, &3 bdrm affordable apartments available now! Call 6858066. Washer and dryer in every unit. Private sunny patio or balcony. Special move-in rate, 1 bdrm: $694, 2 bdrm: $777, 3 bdrm: $888. Move in now and deduct $ 200 off ﬁrst month while special lasts. Call Konnie or Celeste at Highland Properties 685-8066.

Produce for Sale Fresh local “Free Range” eggs. All natural, no animal by-products. No antibiotics. $3/Doz. 257-9049

For Rent 2 Bedroom Duplex, with one car garage, washer/dryer, no pets. $700rent/$700deposit. 307-689-0202 Room for Rent. Nice Room for Rent for one responsible person. $480.00 per month. 689-9358.

December 7 - 14, 2012

Guns for Sale

Services

Miscellaneous

Czech CZ-82 Pistol. 9X18 Caliber, semi auto. High quality steel construction made for ﬁeld use. 12 round capacity magazine, cock and lock style safety, super accurate polygonal riﬂed barrel. Comes with extra magazine, cleaning tools, and original issue military holster. Regular price $387.93, On sale with this ad for only $315.00. Call Wyoming Mountaineers 299-2084 and mention this ad.

Homeowners and renters insurance for house, trailer, or apartments. Call Elizabeth Jones Agency 307-682-6520

Licensed daycare now open. Spots available full-time and before and after school. Close to Rozet school and the post ofﬁce. Monday through Friday 6:30am to 6pm. Ages 3 and up. Call 307-299-1915

Taurus Model 827, 38SPL Revolver. 7rnd, 4” Barrel, Stainless Steel. MSRP: $664.00 on sale with this add $575.00. or make 4 payments of $163.20 each. Call Wyoming Mountaineers 2992084 and mention this ad. Remington model 770 Sportsman with 3x9 scope. 270 win. 22” barrel, black syn. Stock. MSRP $375.00. Mention this ad and buy same MSRP for $325.00 (or 4 payments of $95.40). Wyoming Mountaineers, call or text 307-299-2084 D132-TFN Savage Arms/Stevens Model 350 12 Ga. pump shotgun. 3” chamber, 28” barrel, 4+1 Capacity, Black soft touch synthetic stock. Screw in chokes comes with modified choke. Bottom eject makes this an excellent waterfowl and upland bird hunting gun. Regular price $294.95. On sale with this ad for only $250.00. Call Wyoming Mountaineers 299-2084 and mention this ad. Get a piece of history. Mosin Nagant Russian M91/30 Surplus Rifle. Very good to Excellent condition 7.62X54 Caliber. These are a very accurate rifle shooting 4” groups at 1000 yards. Open sights are adjustable to yardage with a push of a button. Great gun for hunting deer or elk very cheap ammo available for target practice ($85 per 440 rnds) Comes with military issue sling, sling pouches, bayonet, and cleaning tools. Retailing as high as $175.00 on sale with this ad $145.00. Call Wyoming Mountaineers 2992084 and mention this ad. Wyoming Mountaineers now offers easy payment plans on any in stock firearm. Your debit card is your line of credit. Purchase any firearm that is in stock making 4 payments weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Processing fee and payment plan fee apply. Call Wyoming Mountaineers for more details. Call Wyoming Mountaineers 299-2084 and mention this ad. Taurus Model 827, 38 SPL revolver. 7RND, 4” barrel, Stainless Steel. MSRP $664.00. Mention this ad and get MSRP for $350.00 (4 easy payments of $102.03) Wyoming Mountaineers, call or text 307-299-2084 D132-TFN Gunsmithing Special of the week. Electrolysis Barrel Cleaning. Increase the accuracy of your firearm, get ready for hunting season or a summer of shooting fun. Most cleanings complete overnight and your gun is ready the next day. This week only $25.00. Call Wyoming Mountaineers 2992084 and mention this ad. Before you buy, make a call to get a quote. We can order any gun you are looking at and just may be able to save you a ton of money. Call for a free quote. $15.00 FFL Transfer Fee on all internet purchases. If you find that smoking great deal on the internet we transfer guns for only $15.00 per gun. Call Wyoming Mountaineers 2992084 and mention this ad. Colt AR-15, Sporty Target. Pre-ban, INCREDIBLY LOW SALE NUMBER. Great condition $1,500. (307) 6894339. D1-32-2V 1903 Springfield. 30o6 Cal. U.S. Military. $700 obo. Call (307) 682-7864

Heavy Equipment/ Trailers

RV Winterization starting at $99.95 at YOUR house. Call Randy at 307-660-3091 (b340-tfnh) Powder River Rooﬁng is N.E. Wyoming’s top quality roofing, with the highest safety standards in the area. Call for your FREE estimate today for metal/wood/shingle removal, install, and repair. (307)-696-7465. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Want To Get in Shape?Like to have Fun? Learn The Graceful moves of American Oriental Belly Dancing! The 3rd Sunday of every month. Call Leanna Tabatt 307-6808457 Looking to buy a new computer? Why waste the money? “Your Computer Store” has refurbished towers and laptops rebuilt right here in our store. Plenty of memory, disc space, and advice. Come by and see our inventory at “Your Computer Store,” where YOU come ﬁrst! 802 E. Third St next to Ice Cream Land Powder River Mechanics. We have the cheapest labor rates, but the best quality repairs in town. We offer full services on Foreign and domestic vehicles, ATV’s, Snowmobiles, motorcycles, jet ski’s, boats, and more. Let us put you on a Preventative maintenance schedule so your vehicles run miles past your warranty. Call for an appointment. 307-6967713. Avenue Mall - Over 30 vendors, come check us out! 217 Gillette Ave. Mon-Fri. 9AM to 7 PM, Sat. 9AM- 5 PM, Sun. 10 AM - 4 PM Computers have become like cars, and they need repaired. Want the best quality repair work in N.E. Wyoming? Bring your computer to “Your Computer Store.” Quality work at a quality price. “Your Computer Store,” where YOU COME FIRST 802 E. Third street next to Ice Cream Land. Auto insurance preferred and SR-22’s. Call Elizabeth Jones Agency 307-682-6520 Motorcycle and ATV insurance. Call Elizabeth Jones Agency 307-682-6520

Merchandise 1939 HA Selmer Trumpet $750 OBO. 687-1087 Exterior door with window, interior light ﬁxtures, and computer supplies. E-mail Corsair115@yahoo.com Refrigerator (white) Great condition $100 307-2995918 Blue Dual Reclining Sofa. Good shape $100 Call 6802982. Can text photo if you like. Spyder Semi-auto paint ball gun. cal..68 Special Edition. Only used twice! New $300 For you $175 plus two canisters. Call 680-1302 If you are interested in purchasing Nutrient Rich Ranch Raised Beef grown locally, call 307-340-1108. Great Jerky http://www.rberlinger.jerkydirect.com/ Five roasts and twelve pounds of hamburger for a ﬂat rate. $150.00. All ranch raised beef. This is an approximate savings of 10% on the total. Contact Jason Walker at 307-686-0577 For sale: whirlpool refrigerator, brand new patio propane heater, still in box Cabela’s shower tent, large dining room dark blue/red rooster rug, 10” wet tile saw, treadmill. Call 682-6353. Kojac series One, two and three dvd $65.00 $98 value 307 - 670 - 1887 Two place aluminum snowmobile trailer. $1,600. 307689-0202

Pets

6x10 trailer. Great shape, fits your biggest Harley. $1,400 obo. 299-4967. 1981 Circle J 4-horse Horse Trailer. New floor, paint and wiring. $2500 OBO Call 307 - 680 – 2374 1981 Circle J 4-horse Horse Trailer. New floor, paint and wiring done in shop class 2 years ago. No rust only used once since redone. $2500 or OBO Call 307 - 680 – 2374

Basset Hound pups for sale; 9 weeks old; need shots. Rust and White and Tricolor $250.00; One Lemon and White female $300.00. Transportation cost additional if I deliver @ 25 cents per mile. Serious Inquiries Only! Please call 307-382-9282. 2 AKC Registered Tea Cup Yorkies Puppies for free. They are male and female. If interested contact james.bernard10@live.com D7-45-3H

Bring your catch by the Empire Guesthouse for photographs which may be published in this newspaper with our ﬁshing reports. Along with that, the Guesthouse staff will be awarding monthly prizes for those that let us photograph them and their catch. It doesn’t have to be a trophy to enter and there will be special prizes for those 12 and under. Carp shooters are also welcome to enter. Check with the Guesthouse for more details. ACE will reduce your appetite and give you energy. The natural way to lose weight. www.facebook.com/AcePill 660-2974

Homes for Sale Home for sale by owner in Western Way. Asking $239,000 for the 1,800 sq. ft. 3 bedroom 2 bath home with an unﬁnished basement and a two car garage. Fully fenced, large landscaped yard with a sprinkler system. Home is within walking distance to the new recreation center and the new elementary school that is being built. Please contact me at 307-670-1209 if you are interested. For Sale. 3br Townhouse. 1.5 bath. 307-680-1449 (c139-tfnh) Tri-level house for sale 4 bed 2 bath $209,000 (307) 6701925. 40+ Acres 2 miles south of Wright 1999 Atlantic Oak Modular. $250,000 OBO Call 307 - 680 – 2374 Great House - 4 bedroom, 2 bath, computer room, huge island kitchen, ﬁreplace. Must see! call 307-687-0333 C1-23-tfn 3 bedroom 11/2 bath C1-39-tfnh

Townhouse 680-1449

FSBO 2,688 SF home on corner lot with fenced back yard. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, upgraded kitchen, ﬁnished walkout basement, oversized garage. $259,000. 307-680-9180.

Home Appliances/ Furnshings Booth Table. L-shaped. With Chairs. Seats 6. $500.00 Call 299-4967 Three antique pressedbacked oak chairs. Excellent condition. $85 each. 6820042

Autos, Trucks and Vans ‘76 Electra-Glide would consider trade on Pan or Knuck if ya know of anyone, ‘81 sent it to LA-S&S, 11.5to1 and dual-plugged to run regular-gas, had burn-out time at Hog-Jam! Ben 680.7464. 1993 Chrysler LHS for sale or trade. Needs tie-rod and alignment. Runs good. $1,500.00 OBO. Email KevlarGrease@gmail.com 1994 Plymouth Voyager for sale or trade. Runs/ looks great. 188,000 miles. $2,000.00 OBO. Email KevlarGrease@gmail.com 1996 Nissan Pathﬁnder 4x4. New BF Goodrich Tires, Runs good. $1,200.00. 307299-4662. (a141-tfnh) 2004 Yukon Denali XL,6.0 Motor, Loaded $14,000 OBO 660-9351 2008 Hyundai Sonata LMTD, 40,000 mi. $13,500, Call 307-660-2532. 2000 Chevy Silverado 4x4 1/2 Ton Pickup. New tires, ext. cab, long bed. 148,000 mi. One owner. 307-6700858 or 303-250-4096 97’ Chevy Long Box Extended Cab. ¾ Ton, selling for Parts. $1,000 OBO. 307680-7431 1982 Chevy Ventura Van. 350 Engine, 400 Turbo newly rebuilt transmission. Interior in GREAT shape, has a working electric wet bar and built in cooler in back. Carb. needs re-jetted, other than that there are no problems. Must see. Asking $3,500 or best offer. Price:$3,500obo. Contact: 307-670-8980 1952 Chevy Dumptruck, hauls 5 tons of coal $1500 307-682-1172 1986 Toyota Tercel 4x4. $1050.00. Call 307-2995918

Wanted to Buy I Buy Militaria. Swords, uniforms, bayonets, medals, guns/parts, ﬁeld gear. 6827864 Wanted: Old Batteries. Call 307-670-1675. D4-30-8P WILL PAY CASH FOR CAMPERS. Call Scott (307) 680-0854.

Tonneau Cover for sale! Cover will fit any pickup with an 8' bed, long wheel base - $125.00

Call 307-689-4189

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Our Roots

December 7 - 14, 2012

Campbell County Observer

George Orson Welles By Mike Borda

In the history of great American entertainers, there have been many faces. However, before there were famous faces, there were famous voices. The men and women of early radio broadcasts were the celebrities of their day, bringing joy to millions of people during their shows. But while there have been many radio stars, one man stands out in entertainment history because of not only his voice, but because his sincerity actually caused a panic among some of his listeners. George Orson Welles was born on May 6, 1915 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He had a somewhat tumultuous upbringing after his father stopped working and moved the family to Chicago in 1919. His mother died when Welles was 9 years old, and his father followed 6 years later. It was after his father’s death that Welles began following his natural love of the arts. His mother had been a musician, so already predisposed to creativity he chose to begin studying theatre. He traveled to Europe in 1931, and was cast in his ﬁrst major production in Dublin, Ireland. When Welles came back to America, he began writing as well. However, he continued to act, landing in New York City in 1933. It was here in New York that he also began his radio career, lending his voice to many productions alongside some of the radio greats of the day. In 1936 Welles directed his take on the Shakespeare in his critically ac claimed production brought Welles into

the national spotlight, and he began touring the country putting on different plays. The fame eventually led him to create his own theatre company, known as the Mercury Theatre. Along with his friend and mentor John Houseman. Even though by 1938 Orson Welles was well known among the arts community and had many fans across the United States, he was still not at the height of his popularity. That occurred shortly after Halloween of that year. On October 30, 1938, Welles performed his rendition of the famous H.G. Wells novel Although he did begin the broadcast by stating that this was a work of ﬁction, those who missed the beginning were so enthralled with his performance that they believed New Jersey was actually the site of an alien invasion. There was smallscale panic among some people, although it never escalated to the level some remember. Welles used the fame brought on by his performance to begin a career in Hollywood, working on movies such as Citizen Kane. He stayed in the entertainment industry for the remainder of his life, dying in 1985. Orson Welles was a truly unique character in American popular culture, having made the transition from theatre to radio to ﬁlm as successfully as anyone in history. His life, in many ways, mimicked his art. He led a cultured, varied, and exciting life that has shown future generations what entertainment is truly about.

The Gambling Sheriff By Jeff Morrison

John H. Owens was 43 years old in 1886, when he ﬁrst pinned on a deputy sheriff’s badge. Before his ﬁnal retirement in 1911 he became the epitome of a soft-spoken, gun-slinging, frontier law man. Ironically, he also owned and operated some of the most notorious brothels, saloons, and gambling dens in early Wyoming. Born 1843, Owens arrived in Fort Laramie in 1862 working as an army scout. When he wasn’t scouting, he took on several of the domestic contracts the army awarded to civilians and relied on for its very survival west of the Mississippi River; hunting meat for the commissary, cutting hay for the livestock, cutting timber for construction, and a whole host of other chores that enabled the soldiers to concentrate on their primary duties of patrolling the emigrant road. The Texas native found the high plains to his liking and quickly adopted Wyoming as his home. In the wintertime, when everything took a slower pace out west, Owens spent his idle time playing poker at the various roadhouses and hog ranches in the region. One night, in 1876, he won the deed for the Chug Springs roadhouse and went into the business of purveying the three major adult entertainments that made the West famous. Owens not only had a fondness for gambling, but for “Soiled Doves” as well. In 1880 he married Serena Bolt, who he found working at the Three Mile Hog Ranch outside of Fort Laramie. Owens had by this time sold the roadhouse and tried to become a professional gambler in Cheyenne. As it turned out, reformed prostitute or not, Mrs. Owens took a very dim view of gambling, and four years later obtained a divorce. Far from seeing the error of his ways, Owens bought the Three Mile Hog Ranch that same year. Two years later he sold the brothel and moved to the wild cow-town of Lusk, taking most of the prostitutes from the Three Mile with him, and opening a “dance hall” in the seedier section of town. When the deputy-sheriff, appointed to keep the peace in the new town, shot a suspected horse thief in cold blood, Owen’s led a town posse to arrest the deputy and escorted him to Cheyenne for trial. That November, the Laramie County Sheriff, Nate Craig, appointed Charles Gunn as Lusk’s town marshal and John Owens as a deputysheriff. For Owens, the appointment launched a career that lasted over two decades. Marshal

Gunn’s career was cut short, however. Two months after taking office, Gunn was attacked in a saloon by Dan Bogen, alias Bill McCoy. Bogen shot Gunn in the stomach at close range, and then finished him off with a shot to the head while the dying marshal lay helpless on the floor. Bogen then grabbed the nearest horse and proceeded to make a hasty get-away. But he had barely put the spurs to his horse when an approaching pedestrian lifted a scattergun and shot him out of the saddle. Fortunately for Bogen, Deputy Owens had not shot to kill and he was only wounded in the shoulder. Since the jail wasn’t finished, Bogen was shackled and held in a saloon until preparations could be made to take him to Cheyenne. Owens kept wouldbe vigilantes at bay by letting it be known he would kill anyone who attempted to take his prisoner, and rescue attempts were thwarted when Owens told Bogen’s friend that if they were still in town in two hours’ time he would shoot them on sight. As it turned out, Bogen managed to escape while Owens was sleeping, but since he was badly wounded, Deputy Owens quickly recaptured him. Owen’s escorted him to Cheyenne on the stage, where he was placed in custody, tried and sentenced to hang, only to escape from the Cheyenne jail. He was never caught again. By 1889 the town of Lusk had tamed down enough that both the dance hall and law enforcement jobs were getting slow. Owens decided to sell out and move to the new end-of-track town of Newcastle. In 1890, he bought a store and converted it into a saloon. A month later he built a large combination saloon, gambling house, and theater, which in addition to the usual offerings to be found in such an establishment, also showcased variety acts from across the country. He named his new establishment “The Castle” but it was known far and wide as “The House of Blazes,” due to the frequency of gunplay that went on within its walls. The first recorded gunfight to take place was when Owens was forced to shoot one of his own dealers in self-defense. A Coroner’s Inquest interviewed the multitude of witnesses and concluded the shooting had been justified. Owens ran for Sheriff of the recently established Weston County in 1892, and was elected to the first of what would become a total of 7 terms, spanning 14 years. Although he had a reputation as a gunfighter, he rarely

had to resort to violence in the performance of his duties. On one occasion he was pursuing a fugitive who kept ahead of Owens until he crossed the state line into South Dakota. Owens found him a few yards over the boundary, letting his horse rest while he casually smoked a cigarette. “I was just a little too fast for you, Johnny,” the fugitive cheerfully told him, knowing that Owens couldn’t arrest him outside of Wyoming. “But come on, have a cigarette and rest your horse a bit.” Owens proceeded to do just that. While they were visiting, the horses wandered about grazing and had drifted back over the state line. The criminal was in the middle of an entertaining story and followed Owens as the sheriff casually walked over to tend his horse. Sheriff Owens let him ﬁnish his story then drew his gun and informed the man, “We’re in Wyoming now, Pard.” Owens married for the third time in 1894, when he was 51 years old. His bride, another dance hall girl named Addie Parker, was twenty years younger. In 1898, Owens lost reelection to his deputy and friend, William Miller. He continued to serve as Miller’s deputy until Miller was slain in the line of duty during his third term as Sheriff in 1903. Owens ran for Sheriff and won again in 1904, 1906, and 1908. In 1906, Sheriff Owens committed the only questionable killing of his career. He had cornered Logan Blizzard, an escaped prisoner, at remote ranch in western Nebraska. When Blizzard saw that he couldn’t run, the unarmed convict spread open his coat and asked Owens to shoot him. Owens refused. Blizzard then asked if he would shoot him if he broke and ran. Owens told him no, that other lawmen were nearby and would catch him if he ran. Blizzard then said, “If I had a gun I would kill you … I’ll die before I go to the pen.” Then he jumped at the sheriff and yelled “Shoot!” Owens shot him. As had been the case in every other fatal shooting Owen committed, he was exonerated by the testimony witnesses. But many people in Weston County never forgave him for killing an unarmed prisoner. It was the beginning of hard

“Do not separate text from historical background. If you do, you will have perverted and subverted the Constitution, which can only end in a distorted, bastardized form of illegitimate government.” - President James Madison

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times to come. A few months after the killing of Logan Blizzard, his wife Addie died. Pressure from an anti-saloon sentiment that was sweeping the nation at the time convinced Owens to sell his “House of Blazes” in 1907. Even though he won re-election in 1908, he lost in 1910 by 13 votes. There were some voting discrepancies in that election, however, and Owens decided to contest the results. The case took a year and a half to settle. In the meantime Owens had to look elsewhere for employment and took a job as a watchman for the Cambria Coal Company, during which time he was involved in yet another fatal gunfight. Owens was charged with seconddegree murder and released on bond, awaiting trial, but the charges were ultimately dropped – due to the unlikely prospect of finding a jury that would convict him. Early in 1912, the courts finally settled the election in his favor, and he was re-instated as Sheriff to serve the remaining six

months of the term. He was 70 years old. He chose not to run for sheriff again, and moved from Weston County. He was a prison guard for a while in Rawlins, and later chosen to oversee the prison labor that was building the State Industrial Institute in Worland. A chance encounter reunited him with his former wife, Serena in Thermopolis, and the couple remarried and remained together until his death in 1927. John Owens had been credited as having killed 20 or more people in gunﬁghts. Most historians know that number to be an exaggeration, but the exact number will never be known. Russell B. Thorp of the Black Hills Stage line said, “I doubt very much if Owens ever shot a man in the back. He was not that kind.” He also said, “John Owens, without question, was the greatest pistol shot of any peace ofﬁcer or individual in Wyoming.”

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