Campbell County Observer

Page 1

BUY 1 GAME GET 1 GAME

FREE Good for 1 to 4 people. One coupon per visit.

Adriano’s�Italian�Restaurant Sign up for Summer Leagues NOW! Mens - Womens - Kids Call 682 - 4811 for info

1005 W. 2nd St. Valid with coupon only! Expires Sept. 15th, 2011

1005 W. 2nd St.

10% OFF Entrees

Alcoholic Drinks not included. One coupon per customer per entrĂŠe. Valid with coupon only!

Authentic Italian Cuisine (307) 670-9005 2610 S. Douglas Hwy. Suite 220

The Campbell County Observer Volume 1 • Issue 14

www.campbellcountyobserver.com

$1.00

July 8 - 15, 2011

ZZZ FDPSEHOOFRXQW\REVHUYHU QHW Week care!� of April 15 - 22, 2011 “If it doesn’t have to do with Campbell County, we don’t

Photographed by Justin Hillius

Gillette Honors Fallen Soldier By Sandra Boehler

“Health Buddies� Support for Medicaid Clients

On Wednesday, June 22, Lance Corporal O’Connor approximately one hundred a group of 17 bikes and was killed on June 12 at bikes to honor the local 21 riders made the trip to Helmand Province, Af- fallen soldier. Several citiDouglas, WY to participate ghanistan. zens lined the streets with in the Patriot Ride to honor A ag line, consisting of ags to show their respect a Wyoming soldier who was approximately one hun- as the caravan passed by. recently killed in Afghani- dred participants, lined the At the cemetery service Contact: Kim Deti set out at entrance to Wyoming Department Health, will staff stan. The group the gymnaonly of family and Patriot 7:00 AM and was joined in sium on boththe sides of theThese Phone: 307-777-6420 project. nurses monitor Guard were will allowed as the Wright by Myron and the close ofsubmitted family wished for a private “Health Buddiesâ€? to Joann Supportwalkway. WyomingAt information by patients and Zorn, theClients parents of Sar- the funeral, about a dozen There rumor Medicaid FDQ Ă DJ FOLHQWV service. IRU IROORZ XS was LI WKH\ gent Ryan Zorn, also a lopeople left the  ag line of protestors arriving at the Certain selected Wyoming EqualityCare detect potential problems or increased cal recently fallen soldier, and proceeded to the cem- funeral. Thankfully none ar(Medicaid) clients are beginning to symptoms of concern. “Depending on along with his brother and etery to create another ag rived. Lance Corporal Sean use “Health Buddyâ€? devices for the case The and the patient’s needs, they a family friend. line aatcostthe entrance. Michael Nichols O’Connor effective connection to hearse enhanced may call Corthat patient to discuss their The group met the Patriot carrying Lance now rests at the Douglas medical part ofHigh a newporal Wyoming condition mayCemetery. help ensure the Guard atcare the as Douglas O’Connor followedorbythey Park Campbell Department of Healthwhere effort. the bus carrying patient visits said. expressSchool Gymnasium family anda doctor,â€? County Bush Observer the funeral Lance Together Cor- proceeded the cemetery, es system our deepest sympathy The new for Healthy Health to“The Health Buddy has been used poral Sean Michael Nicholsespecially followedfor by aforcolor guard, of to his family. Buddy Project, designed a number years in other programs O’Connor was EqualityCare being held. (Medicaid) Patriot Guardsuch escort, the Wyoming as and the Department of Veterans

Aging and Disabilities Conference for Cheyenne

Aging and Disabilities Conference Set for Reform, Reverse Mortgages, and the program, will connect certain clients to $IIDLUV ZLWK WHUULĂ€F UHVXOWV Âľ %XVK VDLG Cheyenne Aging/Mental Health/Development medical professionals who will directly “It’s been proven to reduce the number With a theme of “Powering toward the Disabilities Panel. monitor their health status using tele- of hospitalizations and costs associated future,â€? the 2011 Wyoming United for A pre-conference session the morning health technology. with managing chronic illnesses.â€? Aging and Disabilities conference will be of May 3 from 9 to 11 a.m. will cover TheThe Health is aUtilismall, easy-toBush noted the Seed initial can projectisisnot limited to City ofBuddy Gillette’s during the third week. needed. • Have your irrigation system caused by overwaterheld May 3-5 in Cheyenne. emergencyrun-off preparedness. A postuse that is placed 100 patients. we are•interested ties device Department would like in a client’s be watered 5 times a“Because day, every Consider drip The irrigation sysaudited by a professional to ing due to improperly conference, hosted by the Wyoming conference session on May set 5 clock from the public a day, weeks, then 5care times a cost tems around trees and shrubs determine the most efďŹ cient use timers. home and to is remember attached tothat a phone line.forin3better patient and avoidance Department of Health’s Aging Division, 12:30 to 5 p.m. will cover emergency voluntary day, other improved day, duringprevention, the - Dripwe systems water to of your water. Homeowners and businesses The systemwater asksconservation patients a series ofevery through are permit will be held at the Little America Hotel and preparedness training in detail. program is in effect. The City of fourth week. Following the privi ow slowly to roots, encourag• Reduce your outside that purchase and install apindividualized and interactive questions. focusing on cases with the highest rate Resort. Conference sessions will cover The conference registration fee is $150 Gillette’s Sustainability Division lege period, the normal watering strong root systems. These monthly water use by 10%. proved spray heads/nozzles “For patients, it basically involves logging of expense and use,â€? he said. “We hope adown variety of topics related to the human before April 24receive and $175 afterofApril 25. is offering a water conservation ing schedule must be followed systems also cut evapo• Contact your local nursery can a rebate $2.50 in to a computer over the phone line so to expand the program should we see the VHUYLFHV Ă€HOGV RI orDJLQJ PHQWDO KHDOWK Online registration ishelp available at http:// rebate program for City of Giland the sign must be returned. ration. Master Gardener for plant per unit to offset the rethat you can answer important questions good results we expect.â€? and substance and disabilities, For lette water customers beginning • Mow as infrequently as pos- abuse, suggestions that require guest.event.com/d/ldqb91/1Q. less placement cost. every day about your health condition,â€? The Health Buddy effort is part of the including developmental disabilities. more information about attending the July 1st. sible and higher than normal water and are Campbell County Please go to the City’s web Summer Watering Tips said Dr. James Bush, Medicaid medical Healthy Together program offered to all keynote/banquet speaker will be Dr. conferencesite please call the Aging Division Please follow the Summer - Mowing puts theThe grass under friendly. www.ci.gillette.wy.us to • Choose an Automatic Irdirector with the Wyoming Wyoming EqualityCare clients at nothat cost. Walter Bortz. Bortz is one of America’s at 1-800-442-2766 orabout sendthe anprogram, email to Watering Schedule for yourDepartment stress requires more water. learn more rigation System - An automatic ofaddress: Health. “The system also allowssprinkler for The program, which byleaf APSsurfaces PRVW GLVWLQJXLVKHG VFLHQWLĂ€F H[SHUWV RQ wyaging@health.wyo.gov. Longer promote download a rebate application system can be set is to operated Outdoor Water sharing important data such as blood Healthcare, provides one-on-one support Even Number Addresses deeper rooting and shade form, is and view theinlist of by ap-the water the lawn for a speciďŹ c aging andthe is a clinical associate professor The conference sponsored part Conservation Program pressure or sugar levels.â€? amountfrom a Ifnurse, water onreadings Wednesdays, Fridays rootmaterials zone. Never of remove more proved waterofconserving spray of time. you doeducational not The University. intention of the program medicine at Stanford Wyoming Department Health’s Mental “For know Medicaid clients encourage the self-management andexample, Sundays;we Odd Number than 1/3 ofof the leaf blade in one heads/nozzles. have antoautomatic sprinkler is to help Water Utility Additional session topics include thecustomHealth and Substance Abuse Services who have experienced heart failuresystem, are health and help in coordinating Addresses water on Tuesdays, mowing.care Return mulched set a kitchen timer. ers conserve Resource water this summer WyomingclipAging and Disabilities Division, the Wyoming Department frequently candidates forNoexpensive among Thursdays and Saturdays. pingsHealthy to the lawn.Center, Green House Outdoor faucets multiple can ow atproviders. by irrigating efďŹ ciently. RoLiving, Accessing of Health’s Development Disabilities Watering allowed on Mondays. • Use a broom to clean hospital readmission. This is both costly alsogallons provides EqualityCare rates asTogether high as 300 tary nozzles ďŹ t on most pop-up 66, 66', %HQHĂ€WV 'HYHORSPHQWDO Division, and AARP. Remember the City Only water between the hours per hour driveway sidewalk and can a lot of on the spray heads. Instead ďŹ xed Kim Deti WR RXU SURJUDP DQG GLIĂ€FXOW IRU WKH SDWLHQW clients withcreate information weight loss, andDisabilities Panel: Shifting to Self-of aContact: has a voluntary summer 7 p.m. and a.m. EvaporaSweeping the driveway and waste. smoking cessation and how stream of water, rotary nozzles toof endure so 7we want to help them to adopt Direction Care Plans, Multicultural Aging, Phone: 307-777-6420 watering schedule: tion occurs during the or complex will get them clean • Usehealthy a soil probe to testFor soilmoresidewalk slowly deliver multiple rotating avoid future most hospital stays lifestyles. information Medication Use and Abuse, Healthcare • Even Number Addresswww.campbellcountyobserver.net daylight hours. enough moisture Water only when please a streams of water, reducing waprocedures,â€? Bush said. on- Healthy Together contact without APS wasting water. es water on Wednesdays, • Plant drought resistant trees soil aprobe shows dry soil or a ter waste. Since the water is ap“With program, we Daycan set up Healthcare at 1-888-545-1710 extension Newthis Grass Seed/Sod Fridays and Sundays and plants - landscape with screw driver isordifďŹ cult www.WYHealthyTogether. to push plied more slowly, more water is Health Buddy device in a heart patient’s 7089 visit time Watering - A sign can be • Odd Number Addressplants that require less water. into the soil. able to soak into the soil. home,â€? “Using the com. obtainedBush if newcontinued. grass seed or What I like about Campbell County is the Sky. es water on Tuesdays, These plants can be very at• Don’t water the pavement “It’s very common to have a sod has been planted, grantHealth Buddy, the patient can answer The Health Buddy devices are provided Thursdays and Saturdays tractive and can survive drought Position sprinklers so that water ‘set it & forget it’ mindset when <RX¡OO QHYHU Ă€QG RQH EHWWHU GXULQJ WKH ZHDWKHU ing further watering privileges. • No Watering allowed on daily questions about medications lands and on bythe Robert Bosch Healthcare Inc., a better than turf. lawn or garden, it comes to the controllers for Signs can be obtained Mondays potential symptoms suchbyas shortness of leading provider of innovative tele-health ² -RUGDQ 6ROHL • Use a cistern or rain barnot in areas where it is not irrigation systems,â€? commented callingorthe City of Gillette Water • Only water between the breath weight gain.â€? systems. For watering more information, please rainwater - Store rel to collect needed. Also, avoid Michael Foote, Sustainability Division at (307) 686-5276. Sod hours of 7 p.m. and 7 a.m.; $36 +HDOWKFDUH QXUVHV DQG FHUWLĂ€HG FDVH contact Edie DeVine at 415-365-8543 or collected water and siphon it off when it is windy. Wind causes Coordinator for the City. Replaccan be watered a day, with the visit www.bosch-telehealth.com. evaporation occurs most managers, under5 times a contract to water garden areas or ower water to evaporate quickly and ing older pop-up spray heads every day, for 2 weeks, then 5 during the daylight hours blows water onto areas where it beds. will help reduce the amount of times a day, every other day,

City of Gillette water conservation program

For subscriptions/home deliveries go to www.campbellcountyobserver.net

“

“

Community

4th of July parade By Sandra Boehler A great number of spectators turned out to watch the annual 4th of July parade. This year’s parade had several entries. People enjoyed the American Legion Honor Guard, and floats from many businesses along with several church floats. The Gillette gymnastic club entertained watchers with the girls doing their acrobatics as the float proceeded on the parade route. Several horse drawn carts and wagons were also a hit with the people. The jeep group did stunts as they passed spectators as well. Lots of clowns, fancy restored old cars, roller derby dolls, motor cross riders, bike organizations, even the canine group participated in this

year’s parade. Several parade entries passed out candy, water, flags, including the Bicentennial flags, and other items to the crowd. The crowd gave a very special applause and stood as our National Guard unit passed down the parade route. People were thankful for the water balloons, water guns, and the Fire Department for helping to spray the crowd as a much need relief from the warm weather. Once again, we had a great parade and would like to thank all those who help to organize this event. Also, we thank the residents who came out to enjoy, not only the parade, but all the events that took place on July 4th.

Weekly Trivia Question At what meeting did Elizabeth Cady Stanton present her “Declaration of Sentiments? A. Seneca Falls Convention B. New York Women’s Convention C. New York Woman’s Suffrage Convention D. At a protest in front of the White House Flip to page 8 for the answer

2

Community Upcoming Judy A. King Book Signing Events

Judy A. King will hold two book signing events:

• July 16, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Antlers Coffee Shop & Lounge, 205 W. Main St., Newcastle, WY 82701 • July 23, from 10 a.m. to noon at Kaffee Klatsch, 900 S. Summit Ave., Newcastle, WY 82701 King, a resident of Newcastle, WY, will be available to sign copies of her novel, Yellow Star. In 1864, fourteen-yearold, Promise Amrose, has already experienced more in her short lifetime than most other young people. Abandoned by her father at

a young age, and after the loss of her mother, Promise sets out from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Fort Laramie, Wyoming in Indian Territory with her Aunt Hattie to find a father who never knew her. While on their way to Fort Laramie, Promise is kidnapped by stagecoach robbers but is later saved by Squirrel, the daughter of Father Fox of the Lakota tribe, and her cousin, Brings Water. While living with and after being adopted by the Lakota tribe, she is given an Indian name: Yellow Star, Giver of Light. Because of tensions arising between the Indian

Diamond seeks loving home

tribes and the white man, Yellow Star is sent to live with Ben Reed, a friend of Father Fox. From there, she begins her long, arduous journey through the Black Hills—sacred land to the Indians—with Ben and her dog, Moon. Will Promise ever find her father? Will she survive through the rugged terrain and seemingly endless struggles in order to fulfill her mission? Delve into Yellow Star and follow Promise on her incredible journey through Indian Territory to find her father.

Brilliant, well-behaved diamond seeks home on female finger. Excellent dancer. Superb listener. Does need constant attention. Never tires of being looked at. Promises to make you feel gorgeous. Inquire within, or phone.

307-686-6666

1103 E. Boxelder, Suite C Gillette, WY USA 82718

Get a jump on your summer tan!

June 27, 2011

June 28, 2011

- At 7:46 a.m. to Boxelder Road for an EMS assist. - At 8:35 AM to the address of 1901 Energy Court for an Elevator alarm which was accidentally set off by employees in the building. There were no injuries. - At 9:46 AM to the 800 block of East Fifth Street for an EMS assist. - At 10:50 AM to the intersection of High Cliff Avenue and Hidden Valley Drive for an EMS assist. - At 8:03 p.m. to the area of Timber Creek Road for railroad ties on fire. Upon arrival several ties were on fire along with coal dust along the tracks. CCFD extinguished the fire and determined the cause to be spontaneous ignition of the coal dust.

June 29, 2011

- At 7:12 AM to Lafayette Ct. for an EMS assist. - At 8:39 AM to Interstate 90 mile marker 129 for a grass fire less than 1 acre in size that was caused by construction worker who was cutting pipe with a rotary saw. - At 10:14 AM to Interstate 90 near mile marker 96 for a grass fire less than 1 acre in size, the cause is unknown. - At 10:58 Am to the 4500 Block of Tong Avenue for an EMS assist. - At 1:36 PM to Westover Rd. near the dump for a small grass fire in some straw in an area recently hydro seeded, unknown what caused the fire. - At 2:05 PM to Commercial Dr. for an EMS assist. - At 2:07 PM to Prarieview Dr. for an EMS assist. - At 2:37 PM to the park at Sunflower Elementary for a small grass fire, less than 1 acre in size, the cause is believed to be fireworks. - At 3:20 PM to the Bell Rd. for a semi-truck on fire, the cab of the truck was a total loss, the trailer of drill pipe was not affected. The cause is under investigation - At 4:46 PM to 1605 Denver Ave. for a report of a propane tank leaking. Upon arrival it was determined that the tank was probably overfilled and, with the heat, had caused some expansion and caused the pressure re-

lief valve to vent the excess pressure. A company was contacted to off load some propane from the tank. - At 8: 57PM to Iroquois Ln. for an EMS assist. - At 10:16 PM to Running W Dr. for an EMS assist.

June 30, 2011

- At 7:21 AM to 1901 Energy Court for an elevator emergency alarm. CCFD responded to the scene and determined the alarm was unintentionally activated. - At 8:59 AM to the area of Independence Drive for an EMS assist. - At 10:19 AM to the 300 block of Warlow Drive for an EMS assist. - At 12:10 PM to the 500 block of Gillette Avenue for fire alarm activation. This was a false alarm due to maintenance technicians testing the system. - At 12:51 PM to Cattle Trail Court for an EMS assist. - At 1:05 PM to the Post Office parking lot for an antifreeze leak from a vehicle which overheated. Fire crews applied floor dry to the fluid to soak up the liquid. - At 3:17 PM to the area of the Fishing Lake for an EMS assist. - At 3:36 PM to the 1000 Block of Stanley Avenue for a two vehicle accident with injuries. Upon arrival of CCFD all occupants of the vehicles denied any injuries. - At 3:47 PM to the 1200 Block of Sioux Avenue for an EMS assist. - At 8:06 PM to the area of the Olmstead Road and North HWY 59 for a single vehicle rollover. Both occupants of the involved vehicle sustained fatal injuries in the crash. - At 9:12 PM to 2401 Lodahl Ave for gas smell inside the residence. CCFD monitored the atmosphere inside the residence but were unable to detect any flammable gases. A gas can on the back deck of the residence was found and believed to be the source of the smell. - At 10:39 PM to the area of Timber Creek Road for railroad ties on fire. CCFD responded to the area and was unable to locate any burning ties.

July 1, 2011

- At 2:45 PM to the area behind 200 Lakeway Road for a medical assist. - At 11:42 PM to the 1200 block of Raymond Street for a medical assist.

July 2, 2011

- At 11:54 a.m. to 5600 Hannum Road, Lot 47 for a propane leak inside a residence. CCFD responded to the scene and, upon arrival, shut off the propane supply to the house and monitored the atmosphere inside. No explosive readings were obtained inside the residence and the scene was turned over to the resident’s pro-

Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful Shenna Knodel

Campbell Co. Fire Dept. - At 1:49 a.m. to 600 block of south Warren Ave for carbon monoxide (CO) detector activation. Upon arrival found no CO in the building. CCFD changed the batteries in the detector and it returned to normal operation. - At 8:32 AM to the area of mm 124 on North Highway 59 for an EMS assist. - At 1:35 PM to the 100 block of West Valley Drive for an EMS assist. - At 7:01 PM to East Lincoln for a grass fire less than 1 acre in size. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Lakeside Salon

50% OFF

pane provider. - At 12:38 p.m. to 600 West Boxelder Road for a vehicle fire. CCFD responded to the scene and upon arrival found a pick-up truck with the left front tire smoldering. CCFD extinguished the fire and determined the cause to be misalignment of the tire which lead to overheating. - At 8:56 p.m. to Sioux Avenue for an EMS assist.

1 Tanning Session

Valid with coupon only!

Owner/Stylist

128 Pine Haven Rd., Suite 102 Pine Haven, WY (307) 680-0205

DOG GROOMING

July 3, 2011

- At 11:30 AM to the area between the railroad tracks by Four Corners Road for a grass fire. The fire burned approximately one acre and was started by a passing train. - At 2:59 PM to the area behind 1101 Desert Hill Circle (Desert Run Apartments) later identified as 808 and 814 Popular for a grass fire threatening structures. Firefighters contained the grass fire to less than half an acre. The fire burned within ten feet of an apartment building and a mobile home. Thirteen PVC fence posts were damaged by the fire. Preliminary fire damage estimate is $520. The grass fire was started by fireworks. - At 6:48 PM to Barber Creek Road and Scoonover Road for a grass fire started by lightning. The fire was contained to 8.6 acres. - At 7:32 PM to 3106 Hackathorn Lane for a grass fire. The fireworks caused fire burned less than quarter of an acre. - At 7:37 PM to Coal Train Road for a weather watch – no funnel clouds spotted. - At 9:24 PM to the westbound on ramp to Interstate 90 at Central Exchange for a grass fire. The fire was contained to approximately quarter of an acre and was started by a discarded cigarette butt. - At 10:16 PM to 382 Wagon Wheel Drive (Wright) for a grass fire.

Quality Grooming, Boarding, and Organic Cat and Dog Food. Superior Service for you and your animal friends!

Call For Your Summer Boarding Appointments SOON! AUDREY’S DOG GROOMING AND BOARDING SOUTHVIEW SHOPPING CENTER #8 307-686-2363

I Buy Militaria Old Military Equipment

· Medals Gear · Field · Swords · Ammunition · Bayonets · Rifles · Pistols · Ordinance · Parts · Uniforms · Medals US · German · Japanese · British Italian · WW1 · WW2

July 4, 2011

- At 5:33 AM to the 3700 block of Blue Avenue for a medical assist. - At 11:13 AM to 4th St. for an EMS assist. - At 1:18 PM to Interstate 90 at mile marker 129 for a small grass fire less than 1 acre in size started by fireworks. - At 7:31 PM to Rocky Pt. Dr. for a report of an unknown fire. Upon arrival it was determined to be a controlled burn. - At 11:05 PM to Mills Ave. for a small grass fire, less than 1 acre in size and started by fireworks. - At 11:09 PM to Potter Ave. for a small grass fire, less than 1 acre in size and started by fireworks. - At 11:08 PM to the area of Highway 51 and the motocross track for a grass fire, nothing was found and all units cleared.

ANY MILITARY FROM ANY ERA

Also Buying Antique Rifles and Handguns Need an apprasial? Give me a call!

Jeff @ 307-682-7864

To submit ideas or article requests go to www.campbellcountyobserver.net or email us at Newsandideas@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Veteran Owned Business 3

Community

Wright Days a Huge Success

With over 1,200 people in attendance throughout the week, the 33rd annual Wright Days was enjoyed by all ages. Children turned out in droves for the parade, pageant, kids’ games, fishing derby and home run derby. The softball tournament, mud races, calf roping, tractor pull, golf tournament and mud volleyball was enjoyed by youth and adults alike. Over 15 local photographers competed in the Wright Days Photo Contest held at the Wright Branch Library. Jennifer Gibbs won the grand prize with a black & white picture of four kids jumping off a lake dock. The all-day Softball Tournament was a grand slam with the locals. There were five teams that played a double-elimination bracket on Friday. Throughout the day, crowds of people were milling around watching and cheering for the teams. In a close championship game, the TA’s (named after Wright’s mayor, Tim Albin) won the tournament. Saturday was full with the Panther Pound-the-Pavement 5K starting things off

early. Then, the Wright Little League cooked a huge pancake breakfast for the town before the Ryan Zorn Memorial Parade kicked off at 10am. Hundreds turned out to watch the parade wind down Wright Boulevard. After the parade there where Root Beer floats at the Wright Museum and Kid’s Games on the Wright Junior Senior High School front lawn. The National Guard brought their rock wall and Jumping Fun-onthe-Run was there with their blow-up slides and bouncy house. Then the Mud Races and Mud Volleyball brought hundreds more out to the Town of Wright’s shop for the afternoon. That night there was a community supper followed by the Talent Show. Many of the town’s talented young people performed vocally as well as instrumentally. They were a great hit! Sunday was cloudy and a little cooler, but it was perfect fishing weather for the 150 people who fished in the fishing derby that morning. The North Platte Walleyes Unlimited came over

from Casper and handed out free fishing poles to the kids who did not own one. Everyone stayed after the Derby to enjoy a town BBQ at Panther Pond. The final day also held the Wright Days Golf Tournament, Thunder Basin Belles Bingo, the Tractor Pull and the Rodeo Calf Roping. The pouring rain arrived only minutes after the last event ended. The Wright Days Committee would like to thank the many volunteers who spent hours working to make the event a great success. “If you missed Wright Days this year, remember it happens every summer. We will see you next year!”

“The highest patriotism is not a blind acceptance of official policy, but a love of one’s country deep enough to call her to a higher plain.” - George McGovern

4

Community Rozet Man on a Patriotic Mission

Playing guitar since 1966, Dan Coletti has a very unique sound. It is a mix of folk, blues, jazz, rock and country. He has played at events such as campaign BBQ’s and the Vietnam memorial wall in Gillette, and is a treat to listen to. Wearing a harmonica and playing guitar, he plays live while the background music and singing fills the air with the sound of an American who is proud of his country. “I write patriotic songs because I believe that the United States is free. My Goal is to make people understand what the flag means. It has been through a lot. The people who have represented it have sacrificed greatly.” His new song, “My favorite colors”, is a prime example of this. With lines like:

The Campbell County Observer Staff

Candice De Laat - Owner/Publisher CandiceDeLaat@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Nicholas De Laat - Owner/Editor NicholasDeLaat@CampbellCountyObserver.com Keary Speer - Editor KearySpeer@CampbellCountyObserver.com Jenna Flanery - Layout/Design Owen Clark - Ad Design OwenClark@CampbellCountyObserver.com Ken McCoy - Distribution Manager Pattie Ladd - What’s Going On PattieLadd@CampbellCountyObserver.com

“For the heroes who lay still, So listen to me my brothers, When tyrants stand on our shore, Tell us not to leave our borders, Defending freedom anymore”

Writers

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

He is not doing this to be famous, but to send a message. “My goal one day is to play overseas for our military. That is all I want to do, entertain the troops.” The lyrics of this song came to Mr. Coletti in a dream. “I was recovering from surgery and had a dream. I woke up and started writing.” He has faced a terminal illness and felt it was a good time to pay it forward to the veterans and the troops. He has written over 100 songs and has plans to write many more. The song, “My Favorite Colors,” explains itself. “I believe our founding fathers risked their lives for our freedom and I will sing about it.” Dan has the song recorded on his most recent CD, which you can find in Pokeys BBQ, Hastings, and here at the Campbell County Observer. He also performs at events and you can find him, occasionally, at open mic nights in various locations. Call the Campbell County Observer if you would like to have him perform at an event.

Glenn Woods (Political Column) GlennWoods@CampbellCountyObserver.com Mike Borda (American History) MichaelBorda@CampbellCountyObserver.com Elizabeth Albin (Wright) ElizabethAlbin@campbellcountyobserver.com Lin Stephens LinStephens@CampbellCountyObserver.com Josh Uzarski (Science) JoshuaUzarski@CampbellCountyObserver.com Ken De Laat (About Nothing) KennethDeLaat@CampbellCountyObserver.com “Juice” (Political Cartoonist) Juice@CampbellCountyObserver.com Jeff Morrison (Local History Contributor) JeffMorrison@CampbellCountyObserver.com

SWEDE’S SPECIALTIES Starter Kits, Supplies & Ingredient Kits Available

307-686-0588

Home Brew has Natural Pro Biotics and No Preservatives AND its Less Expensive and Healthier! Check out our web site for a variety of products

www.swedesspecialties.com

10% OFF Wine Supplies

Valid with coupon only! Expires August 1st, 2011

Where is this picture taken? See answer on Page 8

Unintentional Stabbing Just after the Fourth of July parade yesterday, the City of Gillette Police Department responded to a fight in progress at the corner of Fourth Street and Kendrick Avenue. Officers soon learned that two, 24-year old males were involved. “The victim of that fight was holding a knife and cut himself on the hand, and also cut the 24-year old on the back when the two – I don’t know who placed who in a bear hug,” explained City of Gillette Police Lieutenant Brent Wasson. “All indications were that the cut was unintentional. The man holding the knife was cited for reckless endangerment and the 24-year old man was cited for fighting in public. The 24-year old was evaluated by EMS for a wound on his back but refused transport.” The call came into the police department shortly after 11:00 a.m. on July 4. Information provided by Paul Wallem of the Basin Radio News Network

$18 50/50 TEES S, L, XL $22 50/50 LONG SLEEVE $36 50/50 HOODIES

Joke of the week

An IRS agent walks up to a rancher and says, “I am from the IRS. I need to see your paperwork and I am going to inspect your property.” “Aauright,” said the Rancher. “Just don’t go to that pasture right over there.” The IRS agent pulled out his badge, shoved it in the ranchers face, and said, “See this? This is a badge of the Federal Government. I will go where I need to. Understand?” “I do officer,” nodded the rancher. The pasture was the first place the IRS agent went. After a forceful stride over the hill, he came running back as fast as his suit would allow him. He hopped over the barbed wire fence and kept running while a bull charged through after him. “Help!” cried the IRS agent. The rancher put his hands to his mouth and yelled, “Show him your badge!”

Discounts For Multiple Shirts

For orders and inquiries contact: Morning Rose Marketing Owen C. 307.680.1302 or e-mail doclarke12@yahoo.com

Shirts can be purchassed at Monogramming Plus, Downtown Gillette

5

Community

The Fourth of July at Bicentennial Park

Following the hotdog feed was an entire list of events including a strong man contest, strong woman’s contest, mud volleyball, a live band, potato sack racing, a dunk tank, and much more. Campbell County put on a great celebration on the day it was most deserved. Afterward was the fireworks, and what a great show. The Cam-plex was packed and there was not a single person that did not have a big smile on their face upon leaving. The fireworks represent all the bombs and the shots that thousands of people had to sacrifice for to create our nations birth. They represent a sacrifice that we need to remember. Many people celebrated the fourth differently, but the way to do it was the events at Bicentennial Park. The events were perfect, the band fun, and the red, white, and blue plentiful. During the fireworks, if you do not like the crowd at the Cam-plex, you can do what many do and go to a good friend’s house with a great view of the sky over it. Have a great BBQ, enjoy the company of a fellow veteran while celebrating the birth of the United States of America, and remember while you’re watching the great Campbell County fireworks display why we celebrate our real birthday.

$1.00 OFF ANY ITEM · Soup, Sandwich, Salad · Coffee Bar / Expresso · Meeting Room

6

NER ON COFFEE

What is the Fourth of July? Well, let’s look at your birthday. You celebrate the day when you were born. You have entered this world and everyone comes over and celebrates with cake, music, food, and a party with all the trimmings. As when you were born you became a citizen of the United States of America. The Fourth of July is a celebration of the birth of our great nation. It is a day, like our individual birthdays, in which we celebrate coming into this world as a new entity. We celebrate this birthday together with great BBQ’s, parades, festivities, and parties with family and friends. We celebrate the birth of the first democratic republic. We dress in everything that has to do with the flag which is our common symbol. We get together with family and friends to eat some of the best charcoal food of the year. We light off or watch fireworks until our heart is content. We hold festivities to celebrate our collective birthday. At Bicentennial Park, the festivities were good. It started with a hotdog feed where everyone received a free lunch. “The hotdogs are great. You get chips, pop, or water. I come here every year,” said Johna Noakes. It was Erica Hight’s first year. “I loved it,” she exclaimed.

Downtown · 320 S. Gillette Ave. Monday - Friday 7a.m. - 3:30p.m. Saturday 8a.m. - 2p.m.

Downtown · 320 S. Gillette Ave. Monday - Friday 7a.m. - 3:30p.m. Saturday 8a.m. - 2p.m.

Must present coupon

WE HAVE THE COR

Community Department Reorganized to Strengthen Service to Wyoming Organizational changes being made at the Wyoming Department of Health will help ensure needed services for Wyoming residents are delivered as successfully and responsibly as possible. Tom Forslund, Wyoming Department of Health director, said the reorganization reflects Governor Matt Mead’s call for increased efficiency in state government. “The changes we’re making will align department functions that have both similar and shared responsibilities for healthcare in Wyoming,” Forslund said. “We think this makes sense and will strengthen the services we provide. While, I feel, the department currently provides a high level of quality service to Wyoming, there is always room for improvement with any organization.”

The former Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and the former Developmental Disabilities Division have been combined into the Behavioral Health Division. “Our goal with this merger is a strong division that does the best job possible in funding and supporting care for children and adults across the state with mental illness, developmental disabilities, acquired brain injuries and/or substance abuse issues,” Forslund said. The Wyoming State Hospital in Evanston, which provides treatment for certain mental health disorders, and the Wyoming Life Resource Center in Lander, which provides care for certain Wyoming residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will each be included in the new division.

Chris Newman is the new division’s senior administrator. Newman began serving as interim administrator of the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Division earlier this year and has been the Developmental Disabilities Division administrator since 2009. The department’s existing Preventive Health and Safety Division, Community and Public Health Division, Rural and Frontier Health Division, Public Health Preparedness Program, and the Office of Emergency Medical Services will all be combined into the new Public Health Division. “The work done in these areas is traditionally identified as ‘public health,’” Forslund said. “It is not uncommon to see these functions closely linked in other states.” Department deputy director, Lee Clabots, will

What’s Going On In Government?

oversee the Public Health Division on an interim basis until a senior administrator is selected. A revamped Aging Division will now include the Wyoming Pioneer Home in Thermopolis, the Wyoming Retirement Center in Basin and the Veterans’ Home of Wyoming in Buffalo, as well as the Office of Healthcare Licensing and Surveys. Clabots will also provide interim oversight for the Aging Division. Ginny Mahoney, former deputy director for rural and public health, will lead the Senior Services section of the division. Teri Green, who is also the State Medicaid Agent, will lead the Division of Healthcare Financing. The division includes Medicaid, Pharmacy Services and Kid Care CHIP.

Rules for attending legislative meetings under review

Monday, July 11

-Planning Commission Meeting, 7 p.m., Council Chambers, City Hall

Tuesday, July 12

-Board of Examiners, 12:30 p.m., Community Conference Room, City Hall -City Board & Committee Openings Deadline, 4 p.m., City Hall www.ci.gillette. wy.us/boards -Mayor’s Art Council Meeting, 5 p.m., 3rd Floor Conference Room, City Hall

Wednesday, July 13

-City Council Morning Meeting, 7 a.m., 3rd Floor Conference Room, City Hall

Thursday, July 14

-Parks & Beautification Board, 5:30 p.m., Community Conference Room, City Hall -Campbell County Public Land Board, 7 p.m., Camplex Board Room

Note:

Last week, Sue Sharp wrote an open article about the media panel at the Energy Expo. We would like to take the time to mention that Sue Wallis of the Cowboy State Free Press was originally supposed to be on that panel. Due to an extremely busy schedule, she was forced to decline at the last minute but suggested that the Campbell County Observer take the Cowboy State Free Press’s place. The Campbell County Observer would like to extend thanks to the Cowboy State Free Press for that opportunity.

By Bill McCarthy of the Cowboy State Free Press A committee is looking into potential rule changes governing attendance of Wyoming legislative sessions and committee meetings because of concerns about rude and dangerous behavior during last winter’s session. “This will be an important topic that we have to have on our fall schedule,” said Rep. Rosie Berger. The Republican, from Big Horn, is co-chairman of the Wyoming Legislature’s Select Committee on Technology and Process. “We’ve had a fairly calm existence to this point but we do need to be proactive,” Berger said. Senate Vice President, Sen. Tony Ross, told the committee Wednesday that the Legislature’s leadership and Management Council would like the committee to propose potential rule changes.

Ross said complaints included people hanging over the glass from the balconies above the chambers attempting to video or audio record what was happening on the floor with cell phones and other devices. Lawmakers complained of intimidation in the lobbies, disruptions in committee meetings, and surreptitious recording of private conversations. Some citizens complained about flyers being handed out and other behavior in the lobbies and hallways of the Capitol. The Management Council, Ross said, would like the committee to consider policy governing audioand-video recording as part of its recommendations. Ross, a Republican from Cheyenne, is not a member of the committee but is a member of leadership and Management Council.

The committee and Legislature face the challenge, Ross said, of “balancing people’s right to know, which none of us want to exclude, and maintaining proper decorum and some ability to control the atmosphere in which we are trying to deliberate and create public policy.” Ross said the Management Council does not want to raise the height of the glass fronting the balconies in the chambers because it puts more distance between the lawmakers and constituents. The next session of the Wyoming Legislature is in February. It is a budget session. So, it may not be as raucous as last winter’s session when samesex marriage legislation brought passionate people on both sides to the Capitol. Committee co-chairman

Sen. Cale Case said, “If it’s not intrusive and interruptive, we should permit” recording of committee sessions. “It’s more about civility and how we act in public,” Berger said, than it is about the changing technology. Committee member Rep. John Patton added, “It cuts both ways.” Lawmakers and committee chairmen occasionally treat people rudely, as well, the Republican from Sheridan said.

Visit www.campbellcountyobserver.com to vote in our Poll of the Week

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

Write for your community newspaper! Little League Games Band Concerts Plays Local Events

The Ragged Ole Flag

If you are at one of your kid’s events and think it should be published, write an article, submit pictures with captions, and send it in to: OpenArticles@CampbellCountyObserver.com

Written by James E. Shadwick Shot full of holes but still she flies, Standing proud above the field where soldiers lie. Where these men fought, she proudly flies, Doing her duty as these men die. For God and Country we all say, And many men have seen this day. It comes to pass in the blink of an eye, One second you’re there and the next you’ve died. But no one who fights dies in vain, Amid the shots, the smoke and the cries of pain. We are soldiers tried, brave and true, But never forget she’s a soldier too. First into battle, the last to leave, Her threads are in our hearts firmly weaved. We willingly follow where she leads, And gladly fulfill our countries needs. She’s our standard, our banner, our grand ole flag And in her duty, she never lags. So salute her boys, be brave and true, Because you can bet that she will too.

We are launching something fun called “Readers on the road.” Take a picture of you, your friends, or your family holding an Issue of the Campbell County Observer, submit it with the names of the people in the picture and where the picture was taken, and submit it in to us. Have Fun!!

No 96.49% (55 votes) Yes 1.75% (1 votes) Maybe 1.75% (1 votes)

To Subscribe to the Cowboy State Free Press go to www.wyonews.net

Open Article

Readers on the Road

Do you agree with the Federal Government’s spending?

Better, Better Deals!

We keep our mattresses in stock! Buy it today... Sleep on it tonight!

Be a part of your community newspaper. To join our team e-mail Campbell County Observer @gmail.com

408 S. Douglas Hwy (Next to Pokey’s) 307-682-7828 Mon-Sat 10am-6pm Present this Coupon for

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY on purchases of $599 or more of regularly priced mattress sets!

Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 8/31/11

7

Community Robin’s Community Garden Auction Fundraiser

Robin’s Community Garden Auction Fundraiser will be held Tuesday through Thursday, July 12 through 14, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday, July 15, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (bidding closes). The event will be held at the Village Square Mall (in the inside hallway) at 302 South Gillette Ave. in

Gillette, Wyoming 82716. Auction Committee members will contact people by phone on Friday as soon after 2 p.m. as possible to let them know they won the bid. Items are to be picked up that afternoon as we are not able to store the items. All types of yard art and containers are welcome.

Individuals and businesses may sponsor a yard art or container filled with flowers. Items will be on display for silent auction bids from Tues.-Fri., July 12th through July 15th. Bidding closes at @ 2:00 Friday. This is the 7th Annual Container and Yard Art Silent Auction Fundraiser

to benefit a non-profit in Campbell County. All proceeds this year will benefit the Boy’s & Girl’s Club of Gillette. Please call Leah Rennell @ 682-8240 or 660-4082 for more information. (Leah may still be of town for a few days.) You may call also me at 307-660-9995.

Road Construction Updates The City of Gillette releases road construction updates. Check the city website for the latest updates on Road Construction. Here are construction updates for current City of Gillette Projects:

Alley Closure

The alley between Ross Avenue and Richards Avenue from 1st Street to 2nd Street will be closed from Tuesday, July 5th, through Tuesday, July 19th, while crews install sewer line associated with the Stonepile Creek Sewer Interceptor Phase IIB project. This project is funded by the Optional 1% Sales Tax.

Par Drive

Par Drive will be closed Tuesday, June 28th, through Tuesday, July 12th, for milling, asphalt patching, Asphalt/Concrete repairs, and overlay. This project is part of the 2011 Pavement Management Schedule A, and is funded by the Optional 1% Sales

Tax.

Clarion Court

Clarion Court will be closed from Wednesday, June 21st, through July 2nd for AC pavement repair, AC overlay, and sub-drain installation.

Clarion Drive (& Links to Clarion Court)

Clarion Drive will be closed from Monday, June 20th, through Friday, July 1st, for storm drain installation.

Stanley Avenue

Stanley Avenue from the intersection of 7th Street and Stanley to the dead end at Stonepile Creek will be closed from Monday, June 20th, through Monday, July 4th, for the installation of a water main.

1st Street Closure (Stonepile Creek Sanitary Sewer Project Phase IIB)

1st Street from approxi-

mately 250’ east of Burma Avenue to 450’ east of Burma Avenue will be closed from Tuesday, July 5th, through Wednesday, July 13th. The intersections of 1st Street/Burma Avenue and 1st Street/Rohan Avenue will both be open. 1st Street from Burma Avenue to Rohan Avenue will be closed from Monday, June 13th, through Monday, June 27th, for concrete street paving. Business access for Tony’s Speed & Sport and Wyoming Purified Water will be maintained. This project is funded by the Optional 1% Sales Tax.

Enzi Drive Widening

This project, funded by the Optional 1% Sales Tax, will be ongoing throughout the Summer of 2011. This will widen Enzi Drive to five lanes from the Enzi Drive/ West 4J Road Intersection to just south of the Enzi Drive/Shoshone Avenue intersection. The project will also relocate the traffic signals at the Enzi Drive and Slate Street to the intersection of Enzi Drive and Sinclair Street - which will include a new entrance and exit to CCHS South Campus on Sinclair Street.

Highway 50 (Skyline Drive) Widening

Sutherland Subdivision repairs

This is a WYDOT Project (Project Number: 0007162) and is scheduled for completion on September 30, 2011. The project includes the reconstruction of 2nd Street from Echeta Road to Decker Court and reconstruction and widening of Skyline Drive from 2nd street to Lakeway Road. The project also includes the installation of part of the second Madison Pipeline from Lakeway Road to Westover Road.

During June, the City of Gillette’s Street Division has hired a contractor to perform shoulder milling and surface treatment on the following streets: Vivian Street, Almon Drive (including 1/2 of Almon Circle), Kinner Drive, Frisky Court and Vanscoy Drive.

What’s Going On? Friday, July 8

-AVA Tile Glazing, All Day Event, Call 682-9133 or www.avacenter.org to Register in Advance -Badger Horse @ Jakes Tavern -Teen Open-Play Video Gaming, 1-4 p.m., CCPL -Couples Night, Gillette Golf Club, 5:30-6 p.m., 1800 Country Club Rd.

Saturday, July 9

-Trash to Trees, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., Gillette College Tech. Center -Thunder Basin Youth Field Day, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Gillette Gun Club, Call 689-2847 for more info. -PBEA Horse Trials, TBA, Camplex Equestrian Area, Call Don Gerlach 682-9429 -Little Levi Rodeo, 9 a.m.4:30 p.m., Camplex Wrangler Arena, Call Quentin Reynolds for info. 660-2371 -4th-6th Grade Wii Play Saturdays, 1-4 p.m., CCPL -Teen Open-Play Video Gaming, 1-4 p.m., CCPL -Badger Horse@ Jakes Tavern -Car Racing; CLMA/ WDRA, 7 p.m., Gillette Thunder Speedway -Bell Nob Amateur Tournament, Bell Nob Golf Course, Call 685-3077 for more info.

Sunday, July 10

-CCPL- Closed -WBA Meeting & UMF Meeting @ Jakes Tavern -AVA Felting Workshop Vessels, 1:30-3:30 p.m., $75(all supplies included) Call 682-9133 for more info. -PBEA Horse Trials, TBA, Camplex Equestrian Area, Call Don Gerlach 682-9429 -Bell Nob Amateur Tournament, Bell Nob Golf Course, Call 685-3077 for more info.

Monday, July 11

-AVA- All Fired Up! 9-11:30 a.m. & 1-3:30 p.m., Pottery Class Fee $60, Call 6829133 for more info. -Microsoft Project 2010, Level I, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., K2 Technologies, $149 Per Person, For info. & to Register Call 686-3025 or www. k2technologies.net

Tuesday, July 12

-AVA- All Fired Up! 9-11:30 a.m. & 1-3:30 p.m., Pottery

Class Fee $60, Call 6829133 for more info. -Online: Microsoft Excel 2010, Levels 1-3A, 9 a.m.5p.m., Call 686-3025 for more info. -Story Time, 3-5 yr. olds, 10:30 a.m., CCPL -7th Annual Container & Yard Art Auction, July 12-15, Village Mall, Call 682-2689 for more info. -Dale Carnegie Training: Break-though to Success, July 12- Aug. 30, 3-6:30 p.m., Register on the Chamber Website www.gillettechamber.com -Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting/Grand Opening- Highland Property Management, Windridge Apartments (bldg 2), 4-6 p.m., 2673 Ledoux Ave. -All About Women- Jimmy Buffet Customer Appreciation BBQ, 6-9 p.m., 901 Pioneer, RSVP Sharon 685-1947 or Gail 660-7663

Wednesday, July 13

-7th Annual Container & Yard Art Auction, Village Mall, Call 682-2689 for more info. -AVA- All Fired Up! 9-11:30 a.m. & 1-3:30 p.m., Pottery Class Fee $60, Call 6829133 for more info. -Microsoft Excel 2007, Level I, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., K2 Technologies, For info. & to Register Call 682-3025 or www.k2technologies.net -Story Time, 3-5 yr. olds, 10:30 a.m., CCPL -Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting: Campbell County Observer, 12:45 p.m., Chamber Office -Teen Open-Play Video Gaming, 1-4 p.m., CCPL -Microsoft Office Basics 2010 for Outlook, Excel & Word, 1-4 p.m., K2 Technologies, For info. & to Register Call 682-3025 or www. k2technologies.net

Thursday, July 14

-7th Annual Container & Yard Art Auction, Village Mall, Call 682-2689 for more info. -Toddler Time, 18 months-3 yrs., 9:30 a.m., CCPL -Story Time, 3-5 yrs., 10:30 a.m., CCPL -AVA- All Fired Up! 1-3:30

Answer:

Downtown Gillette on Gillette Ave. Come and sit next to “Honest Abe”.

Weekly Trivia Answer Seneca Falls Convention Elizabeth Cady Stanton presented her “Declaration of Sentiments” at the Seneca Falls Convention in Seneca Falls, New York. After two days, the ladies at the meeting came up with their own version of the Declaration of Independence.

Sales Repfor Print Wanted Advertising. Desirable Qualifications:  Self Motivation  People Person  Previous Local Sales Experience e-mail CampbellCountyObserver@gmail.com or call 670-8980 to apply

p.m., Pottery Class Fee $60, Call 682-9133 for more info. -Microsoft Office Basics 2010 for Outlook, Excel & Word, 1-4 p.m., K2 Technologies, For info. & to Register Call 682-3025 or www. k2technologies.net -Shakespeare on the Creek: Much Ado About Nothing, 6 p.m., Gillette College Back Lawn -AVA- Painting-Adult Beginners, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Last of the 6 week Session, Call 682-9133 for more info. -Families & Jammies, Birth- 6th Grade, 6:30 p.m., CCPL

Friday, July 15

-AVA- All Fired Up! 9-11:30 a.m. & 1-3:30 p.m., Pottery Class Fee $60, Call 6829133 for more info. -Microsoft Office Basics 2007 for Outlook, Excel & Word, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., K2 Technologies, For info. & to Register Call 686-3025 or www.k2technologies.net -Open House- Campbell County Humane Society, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., In the Boardwalk Plaza, Buy Two Books-Get One Free! -Monster Truck-Car Crush, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., White’s Energy Motors -Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting: Campbell County Humane Society, 12:45 p.m., Campbell County Humane Society In the Boardwalk Plaza -Teen Open-Play Video Gaming, 1-4 p.m., CCPL -Senior Center- Grilled Steak Benefit, 4:30-7 p.m., Donation of $10 per ticket, Call 686-0804 for more info. & to Purchase Tickets -AVA Miniature Art Show Auction, 6-9 p.m., Tickets $25, Call 682-9133 for more info. -Open MIC Night, 7 p.m., Brother’s Coffee -Double Vision @ Jakes Tavern -Gillette Golf Club Memorial & Benefit, Call 682-4774 for more info. -7th Annual Container & Yard Art Auction, Village Mall, Call 682-2689 for more info.

o t e m o H ! e n r i o T e n m r o Co H g i B BUY 4 PASSENGER

$

OR LIGHT TRUCK TIRES, GET

20 OFF AN ALIGNMENT!

50 OFF

BUY 8 $ TRUCK TIRES A 3-AXLE ALIGNMENT! GET

Offer good thru 7/31/11

ORN TIRE, IN H G C. BI

Gillette, WY

Exit 124 off I-90 307-682-9411

STOP IN FOR A FREE BRAKE INSPECTION!

8

Public Pulse Bold Republic Weekly Send it back to CHINA! By Glenn Woods

Our own cartoonist, Juice, was not able to contribute a cartoon for us this week. She is a student at Campbell County High school whose talent far exceeds many. Instead, you will have to laugh at the owners attempt at his first cartoon. But don’t worry, “Juice” will be back next week.

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, This year, the 4th of July fireworks were the best I have seen yet. Great Job!! Maria Santiago From the Editor: I agree. What a great show. Great job to all the people who put on the show, you outdid yourselves. Dear Editor, This year was our first celebration for the 4th in Gillette. We just moved here, and were invited to Bicentennial Park for the festivities. What a great celebration. I hope this happens every year, my family and I had SO much fun! From the Editor: So did we. Yes, the celebration happens every year. It is very family oriented; the organizers do a great job time and time again. Dear Editor, Building the Wyoming We Want or Keeping the Wyoming We Have? The very name, Building the Wyoming We Want, implies that we do not have the Wyoming we want and suggests we are unable to “build” it on our own. I disagree. We cherish our family, friends, freedom, and our independent rural way of life. BW3 was started by Governor Freudenthal under the guise of “protecting” the things we hold dear. Last time I checked, we were perfectly able to do that on our own. It is the overreaching regulation and spending of government that threatens the American way of life. Here in Goshen County BW3 is called the High Plains Initiative or HPI. HPI/ BW3 is a threat to freedom and an assault on our individual rights, especially regarding private property and the ability to choose how we use our land. The document, which has already been created for Goshen and Platte Counties, invites SMART Growth, Sustainable Development and United Nations Agenda 21 into our county by creating a false statement of public support for these principles. Sustainability invokes government power to enforce activists’ views of environmentalism. It seeks to replace farmers’, ranchers’ and other landowners’ concept of stewardship with governmentcentric control. It merges environmentalism and socialism by government control of land use, food production, housing, transportation, manufacturing, energy rationing, and even health care. As a member of the HPI Steering Committee, I witnessed first-hand that this is a marketing ploy called the Delphi technique, designed to manipulate the public and bring them to a predetermined “consensus.” It is not a “grass roots” process; rather, it has been driven from the top down using the local HPI steer-

ing committee as a formality and our good reputations as a front to give credibility to an illegitimate non-profit organization and their undemocratic process. This is a cookie cutter model that is being used by SMART Growth catalysts, such as Envision Utah, nationwide. This is not our plan and it never has been! If you are in agreement, contact your elected officials and “Just say NO” to BW3’s hidden agenda. Tell them we want BW3 stopped, defunded and removed from our Counties and State without a trace left to haunt us. BW3 asked, so let’s tell them we are keeping the Wyoming we have! To learn about SMART Growth, Sustainable Development, UN Agenda 21; www. epa.gov/smartgrowth/, www. un.org/esa/dsd/agenda21/, www.freedom21.org , www. democratsagainstagenda21. com Wyoming information www.wyomingwatchdogs.com. Sincerely, Cheri Steinmetz From the Editor: It is always good to see people get involved. Dear Editor, I saw during the parade another push for a dog park. This is getting ridiculous. We just spend money on a pipeline that we can’t afford (well we can using the scare tactic of the bill hike to make everyone pay for it), new baseball fields (right after the pipeline they couldn’t pay for) and more. These “conservative” (Liberal Spending) people are borderline insane. Spend, spend, spend, and when you’re done spend some more. “Hey, it’s not my money.” If you want a dog park, give me a lake for me to run my speed boat in the middle of the city. You pay for it. I bought a boat, which is not a necessity, but do not have water for it. You pay for my lake; I’ll pay for your dog park. By the way, if you live in an apartment, you should not have a dog. If you can’t provide a yard for the animal, you cannot support it. If you cannot support it, don’t ask me too. Jim Knighte From the Editor: As far as I know, this issue is non-existent and a dog park is not on the County Commissioners or the City Council’s agenda, nor are they willing to put it on the agenda any time in the near future. Dear Editor, It is the 4th of July. The police were all over the place and rude about it. They need to be looking for drunk drivers, not wasting their time on harmless family fireworks fun. This was ridiculous. John Hammond

Dear Editor, I received a ticket for lighting up fireworks from the City Police Department in my driveway (surrounded by 5 acres) when at the end of my driveway is the end of City limits. When police start getting that stingy, you know it must be for revenue. I am appalled that we now have no choice but to privately fund an unconstitutional acting department. Samual Fisher Dear Editor, On the Fourth of July, we are celebrating our nation’s independence. How do we celebrate it? Tickets, rules, regulations, and complete “nanny state” style oversight by our city and its enforcement officers. We are obviously losing our freedom, and not fighting to take it back. Is it too late? Do we lie down and let them kick us? Do we not push back and let these people know that we are equal and that they do not have complete power and control? Jeanie Stetdson From the Editor: I have heard many complaints about the actions of our local law enforcement about the 4th, and have decided to answer all of these letters at once. What many do not realize is that our police officers are only doing their job. If the law is not in place, they would have nothing to enforce and could concentrate more on drunk driving, safety, etc. Blaming a police officer for the law they are enforcing is the same as blaming the gas station attendant for the price per gallon. I do believe that there should not be these kinds of restrictions on fireworks, that is one of the reasons I live out in the county. However, being mad at a police officer who is simply doing his or her job is not the right action. They are doing what they are instructed to do, and they do it well. What needs to happen is for you to go to the City Council where your elected local representatives decide the laws and regulations, present your case respectfully, and get the law repealed. This is the proper course of action in our republican form of government. Remember, the most influence on the difference between freedoms and restrictions is in the law writers, not the enforcers.

All opinions in the Public Pulse section are not necessarily the opinions of the Campbell County Observer

Last week, an interesting news item came across my desk regarding the Gillette Police Department. The item was also passed on and reported on at the BasinsRadio. com news site and this newspaper, The Campbell County Observer. It read as follows: The Gillette Police Department is asking for the public’s input on how to use federal funds to improve or enhance the criminal justice system in Gillette. The City of Gillette is eligible to receive a federal grant in the amount of $10,612. This grant from the U.S. Department of Justice is intended to provide support to local governments in their efforts to prevent and control crime and improve the functioning of the criminal justice system. If you have suggestions regarding the use of these funds to improve or enhance the criminal justice system in Gillette, please contact the office of the Deputy Chief of Police at 686-5294 or email gillettepd@ ci.gillette.wy.us. Comments will be accepted until July 15, 2011 at 5:00 p.m. Reading this story my first thought was, “Why do we need this money?” The Gillette Police Department has a multi-million dollar budget as it is and, last I checked, our local police department spending was right on budget for the year. There is simply no need, which I can see, to toss us an extra ten grand for anything. I’m sure that there are many communities around the nation that could use a few extra bucks to help fight crime. But, pardon me; the Federal Government hardly has the cash to give out. Let’s face it, the money is not coming from the feds. They borrowed it from the loan sharks in China. This means that we are not -- I mean that with a capital NOT, receiving a gift. One way or another we, as a nation, will have to pay back this money with interest. Take a look at the request above and you will see that even the city has no idea what to do with the money. Do they really have to put out a public notice asking for your suggestions? That says to me that the city of Gillette does not need the money. OK then, fine. The city wants our suggestions. I have a few: 1) Send it back. --- Just attach a sticky note to the check that instructs the DOJ to give the money back to China before we owe any more interest on it. Put another note under that sticky note requesting that the DOJ return to China the entire sum that they intended

to send to local police departments across the nation. 2) Assuming that the DOJ will just spend the money or send it to someone else, I suggest we just mail it to the Treasury Department, asking them to put it toward the national debt. I think this is a better idea. It’s more of a direct route and we need not worry about the DOJ spending the money elsewhere. 3) Send it right back to China with a little note that reads, “Thanks, but no thanks.” 4) Spend it buying advertising bashing the Obama administration for sending us, and other communities, money that they do not have and we do not need. Run those commercials in markets that are bound to vote for Obama in the next election. Consider this good money spent on deficit reduction. 5) Spend the money fighting those useless environmental laws and regulations that keep many good people in Gillette unemployed. Liberals tell us that high unemployment leads to more crime. Ok then, let’s spend the money putting some people back to work. 6) Lets have one heck of a barbeque. Ten grand can buy a lot of meat and beer. Let’s make sure we cook that meet on COAL! A party like that would make everyone in Gillette happy, and a happy Gillette means less crime. All kidding aside, I’m getting a little sick of hearing people say to me, “Well, the money is available. Someone is going to spend it. Might as well be us.” Yes, and that is why this nation is in the finical fix that we are now in. The facts are that the money is NOT (capital NOT again) “available.” We are borrowing that money at a high interest rate from a nation that we cannot trust. The fact is that generations of Americans, yet to be born, will be paying back that money to the future yet to be born generations that have not been born yet. We should never ask for such money, in any amount. If someone should try and hand us the money we should say, loud and clear, NOT A CHANCE! So, the city wants our suggestions? Fine, feel free to call the number above and/or use the Email address to speak your mind. As for me, I know that people from the city listen to my radio show and read this column. So consider this to be my one vote. It might only be a little over ten grand, but in the scheme of things the city of Gillette needs to take a moral stand: SEND IT BACK!

To listen to Glenn Woods morning radio show tune in to 1270am KIML Gillette Monday through Friday from 6 - 10 a.m.

SUBSCRIPTION SELLING CONTEST Win a Disney Cruise!!! 1st Prize Disney Cruise!! 2nd Prize New Bike 3rd Prize 1 hour fun time at Mac & Roonie's Sell 100 or more subscriptions and receive $100 Sign up for the subscription contest on our website at www.campbellcountyobserver.net or call 307-670-8980 Sign-up between June 1st and June 30th Contest starts the day you sign-up and ends August 22, 2011 Prizes will be awarded on August 27, 2011

Disney sailson onJanuary January26th, 26th, 2011 Disney Cruise Cruise Sales 2011

9

Our Public Servant

His Honorable Judge John Perry One of the most interesting careers I have heard of in a long time came in this week’s public servant interview. Listening to the details of them kept me on the edge of my chair and very interested in keeping the conversation going. That is the best way to describe this week’s public servant His Honorable Judge John Perry. At 29 years old, Mr. Perry ran for a State Senator position, serving two terms and being on higher level committees including sitting as chair of the Senate and Joint Judiciary Interim Committees. He has a passion for politics. So much so that, after his two terms as a State Senator he ran for Governor in 1994. Before becoming a Judge, he was a managing shareholder of Goddard, Perry, and Vogel. The practices included Federal and State court defense of civil rights and governmental claims cases, telecommunications law, ad valorem tax law, regulatory practice, and litigation. During the last two years of this practice he also served as the Alternate Justice of the

Peace in Johnson County, WY. Being a Judge since 2000, he still loves his job. “My favorite thing about being a Judge is being part of and contributing to a process that is ever-evolving. A process that has been evolving for over 1000 years.” When you sit down and chat with him about history, you can see that he knows much about its evolution. He currently handles felony level criminal cases, major civil litigation, juvenile matters, probate, and appeals from courts of limited jurisdiction. Being history buffs, we talked about current books we are reading and he pointed me to the direction of the book Custer and Crazy Horse which he is currently finishing up. “There is a lot to learn there that most people may not know, including about his decisions.” When he is not in his office or on the bench, Judge Perry mostly enjoys three things. First is, of course, is his family. He has every reason to be proud of his kids, who are Alex,

26 years, Joanna, who is a sophomore at UW and wants to go into law, and Loren, 23 years. Alex is a diagnostic mechanical engineer who went to the University of Maryland and Loren is a graduate student at the University of Wyoming. He also is exercises constantly and plays guitar. I asked him what song he would play if he were to pick up the guitar at that moment and he responded with a smile “Drifters Wind or Slane, which is an Irish number.” His Honor Judge Perry plans on retiring in 9 years. That will be when he will have the full vested amount. He has had many great moments as a district judge. His most memorable is not a moment, but many where “I was in adult drug court. There have been many people who have since gone on to be an extremely successful citizen in the community. I am extremely proud of them.” Seeing people fall down, then get back up stronger is what I believe he sits on the bench for. When you talk to him, you can tell that he is not going through the

motions, but taking a personal care in everything he does, whether it is a case, an individual, a law, or a community. “I have been associated with Campbell County for a very long time. Campbell County and the people here are both impressive and have a vision of the future, and I am very happy to call this place home.” If you ever meet Judge Perry in the courtroom, remember that you can be confident that he is an honest man that deserves the position he is in. If you meet him while working out, have fun trying to keep up with him. If you meet him during an open mic night, you will meet a very kind and intelligent man who will quickly become your friend.

STINSON CONSTRUCTION, L.L.C.

Dirt Road Work. Blading and Hauling.

Lowest Rates! Best Quality!

Call Bowman for your free quote! 307-660-2532

Are you paying $1,000 a month rent or more? Own a home for less than you rent! Come see us at

Home Team Associates

We give you the personal confidence of locally owned and locally operated.

·

(307) 687-7070 2800 S. 4J Road Gillette, WY 82718

10

Sports Report Lofing signs letter of intent

Gillette Thunder Speedway Race Results Thunder Stock - Main Event Finish 1 2 3 4 5 6

Start 4 2 5 1 3 6

Car 13S 13T 80 6 01 39

Driver Seth Cavanaugh Terry Cavanaugh Chad Horst Chris Russell Brittni Snyder Mark Brandt

Hometown Gillette , Wy Gillette , Wy Gillette , W Gillette , W Gillette , Wy

Race Points 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Thunder Stock - Heat 2 Finish 1 2 3

Start 1 3 2

Car 13T 13S 39

Driver Terry Cavanaugh Seth Cavanaugh Mark Brandt

Hometown Gillette , Wy Gillette , Wy Gillette , Wy

Race Points 10.00 9.00 8.00

Thunder Stock - Heat 1 Finish 1 2 3

Start 3 1 2

Car 6 01 80

Driver Chris Russell Brittni Snyder Chad Horst

Hometown Gillette , W Gillette , W

Race Points 10.00 9.00 8.00

Midwest Mod - Main Event Finish 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Start 2 6 5 7 3 10 1 8 4 9

Car 76 2J 14 34H 27 67 28S 23 10J 33

Driver Boyd Abelseth Jerry Martin Kenny Bell Rob Hoffman Scotty Fischer Curtis Wood Cannon Slawson Ernie Acuna Scott Joslyn Austin Long

Hometown Gillette , W Moorcroft, Wy Gillette , W Gillette , Wy Gillette , W Gillette , Wy Gillette , Wy Gillette , Wy Gillette , Wy Gillette , Wy

Race Points 35.00 33.00 32.00 31.00 30.00 29.00 28.00 27.00 26.00 25.00

Turner Lofing has signed a letter of intent to play baseball for the Garden City Community College Broncbusters in Garden City, KS. The college is part of the National Junior College Athletic Association and is a Division 1 school in the Jayhawk Conference. “We are very excited to have Turner here at GC,” said Broncbusters head coach Chris Finnegan. “He is the type of player we have been looking for. Turner will have a great opportunity to play every day for us in the outfield. He will have the opportunity to play in a great JUCO league, with great exposure, and these two years

will help him move on to the NCAA level.” Lofing has contributed defensively and offensively for the Roughriders this season so far. He has played 47 games so far, most in centerfield, with only one error. At the plate, he is the team’s cleanup hitter with a batting average of .470 and has 68 RBI, which lead the team. He has hit 6 home runs, 3 triples and 15 doubles. The Broncbuster baseball program was 41-22 last season and won the Jayhawk West Conference in 2009. Information provided by Ted Ripco of the Basin Radio Networks.

What’s Going On In Sports? Friday, July 8

-Roughriders @ Gopher Classic Tourney, Minneapolis, MN, TBA -Rustlers @ Hargens/Leisy Tourney, Gillette, TBA

Saturday, July 9

-Roughriders @ Gopher Classic Tourney, Minneapolis, MN, TBA -Rustlers @ Hargens/Leisy Tourney, Gillette, TBA

Sunday, July 10

-Roughriders @ Gopher Classic Tourney, Minneapolis, MN, TBA -Rustlers @ Hargens/Leisy Tourney, Gillette, TBA

Monday, July 11

-Roughriders @ Gopher Classic Tourney, Minneapolis, MN, TBA

Midwest Mod - Heat 2 Finish 1 2 3 4 5

Start 4 3 2 5 1

Car 10J 2J 34H 76 23

Driver Scott Joslyn Jerry Martin Rob Hoffman Boyd Abelseth Ernie Acuna

Tuesday, July 12

Hometown Gillette , Wy Moorcroft, Wy Gillette , Wy Gillette , W Gillette , Wy

Race Points 10.00 9.00 8.00 7.00 6.00

Start 2 5 4 3 1

Car 28S 14 27 33 67

Driver Cannon Slawson Kenny Bell Scotty Fischer Austin Long Curtis Wood

Wednesday, July 13

-Roughriders vs. Sheridan, 5:30/7:30 p.m.

Thursday, July 14

-Roughriders @ Big Sky Classic Tourney, Bozeman, MT, TBA -Rustlers vs. Sturgis, 5:30/7:30 p.m.

Friday, July 15

Midwest Mod - Heat 1 Finish 1 2 3 4 5

-Rustlers @ Rapid City Post 22 Bullets, 5/7 p.m.

-Roughriders @ Big Sky Classic Tourney, Bozeman, MT, TBA

Hometown Gillette , Wy Gillette , W Gillette , W Gillette , Wy Gillette , Wy

Race Points 10.00 9.00 8.00 7.00 0.00

“The difference in golf and government is that in golf you can’t improve your lie.” - George Deukmejian

Classifieds Help Wanted

Homes for Sale

Autos, Trucks and Vans

Campers & Motor Homes

Cook needed at Lu La Bells. Motivated and Energetic. Days Only. Apply at Lu La bells.

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.

1981 Harley Davidson FXB-Sturgis, 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!

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

Tri-level house for sale 4 bed 2 bath $209,000 (307) 670-1925.

2008 Hyundai Sonata LMTD, 40,000 mi. $13,500, Call 307-660-2532.

Local journalists wanted. Always wanted to try? Must be 16 yrs of age. Contact us at CampbellCountyObserver@gmail.com Advertising Sales for our weekly paper. Great commission rate, set your own hours. Contact us at CampbellCountyObserver@gmail.com Contributors wanted for weekly newspaper. Need a doctor, a Politician, a lawyer, and more to contribute an article a month. E-mail CampbellCountyObserver@gmail. com for more information. Sports writers, event writers wanted. Gillette, Write, Recluse, Rozet. Call 6708980.

Wanted to Buy

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.

Like new Horizon Elliptical. $300 obo. Call 299-7058 for more info.

Newspaper vending machines. Contact us at: CampbellCountyObserver@gmail. com

Personals

Home Appliances/ Furnishings Small washer. Needs new belt, $25. Email USSailorPatriot@gmail.com Microfiber couch with 2 recliners combined. Green. $100 Call 299-4967. Booth Table. L-shaped. With Chairs. Seats 6. $500.00 Call 299-4967

Pets Welsh Corgi Puppies. 3 females, and two males. 682-2598

1994 Ford Ranger. Black. With Topper. Runs Good. 85k Miles. 2300 obo. Call 307-299-0223

Sporting Goods

I Buy Militaria. Swords, uniforms, bayonets, medals, guns/parts, field gear. 6827864

WILL PAY CASH FOR CAMPERS. Call Scott (307) 680-0854.

‘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 dualplugged to run regular-gas, had burn-out time at Hog-Jam! Ben 680.7464.

Heavy Equipment/Trailers 6x10 trailer. Great shape, fits your biggest Harley. $1,400 obo. 299-4967.

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

Large Private RV/Camper Lot for rent. Big yard, trees. All utilities available. $400 per month, $400 deposit. 1 year lease. Call (307) 660-1007.

Toys (ATV’s, Boats, etc.) Boat for Sale with trailer. Needs work. Call 670-8980 for info. 2006 Cabella’s “Lowes Sun Cruizer” 20 ft. Pontoon 95 HP Mercury Outboard Motor (less than 50 hrs). Good Condition. Call 680-2982 or 696-7512.

Lost & Found FOUND: one large trampoline. Currently located at 5350B M&M circle. If yours, please pick up any day any time. If not yours, do not trespass.

- LIMITED TIME ONLY Free Classified Ad - 10 words or less (Private ownership only - No businesses)

Camping/Fishing

For more details visit www.campbellcountyobserver.com or call (307) 670-8980

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 307-756-3454. www.empireguesthouse.com

We want to get it Write. Oops we mean Right.

Toy Parts & Accessories Stock pipes for Sportster. 500mi. Stock pices for Dyna Wide Glide. 1500mi. Email baxtersmom62@gmail.com for info.

11

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

Our Roots

Lewis and Clark Little Mobile Home on the Prairie By Jeff Morrison Part of the charm of living in Wyoming is the way many things normally associated with the “Old West” have managed to hang around through the 20th century and beyond. The sheep wagon is an excellent example of this. These rugged little camp wagons, dubbed “the original Wyoming RV” by some, were designed for their purpose so successfully that they continue to be utilized over 100 years after they first appeared rolling over the horizon behind a giant flock of sheep. In fact, the next time you pass a ranch yard, if you’re lucky and if you look carefully, you might even see one. Although no two sheep wagons are exactly alike, it is easy to spot one at a glance. From the front or back they resemble the silhouette of a large mushroom, with the round top and flat sides extending over the wheels. Also hard to miss is the stove-pipe poking out of the roof near the front with a split Dutch door on one end and a window on the other. If it were not for the location of the wagon-tongue, it might be hard to tell the front from the back as it does not have a driver’s seat. The driver passed the reins through opened top door and either stood or sat on one of the two bench seats. In their book, “Before Barbed Wire”, authors Mark H. Brown and W.R. Felton describe the sheep wagon this way: “The sheep wagon was a modified prairie schooner – the wheel base being shortened, the box widened to extend out over the wheels, the canvas cover increased to several layers and pulled taut and smooth, and a door put in the front and a window in the rear. Essentially, it was more than a modified wagon: it was a specially constructed job from the ground up. The door in front was built in two halves like a barn door, thus allowing for partial ventilation while keeping the dog either in or out; and the window in the back was hinged at the top so that it could be easily raised or lowered by means of a rope or pulley. This made it easy to control the temperature and keep the little dwelling comfortable. Inside the door on one side was the stove with the dish cupboard behind it and a short bench, and on the other side was a longer bench running back to the bed. Each bench had a trap-door opening into the grub boxes that were suspended on the sides of the wagon box between the wheels. At the back was a built-in bunk and above it a shelf or two for personal belongings. The space beneath the bed was used to store bulky articles or to keep the dogs out from underfoot; and hinged to the bed, or designed to slide in and out, was a table that could be put up when needed.” The authors also state, “With several layers of canvas on top, to keep either the heat or the cold out, and a double floor, it was a very comfortable little home the year round.” That might be a bit over-optimistic. More than one sheep herder was found frozen to death in the bunk of his wagon during the harsh Wyoming winters. And, as anyone who has camped in a tent can tell you, white canvas or not, it’s hard to keep anything cool in the heat of summer. There were a few other drawbacks as well. “In spite of the railing in front of the cupboard shelves, the tin dishes were likely to get scattered about, and the kerosene can and the syrup bucket spilled when the wagon was moved to a new site. And in extremely cold weather about the only way the herder could keep his potatoes and other perishables from freezing was to put them in bed with him at night and wrap them in his bedding during the day.” One modern day restorer of sheep wagons sates that one in three of them will show signs of having been on fire at some point, the stove being the most common cause. Some wagons were designed with tin-faced insulation around the stove but even that was inadequate if the wood or canvas overheated. In spite of these shortcomings, the sheep wagon was a vast improvement over “roughing it” on the ground or in a tent. It did not take long for the sight of one to become as commonplace as the sight of an RV is for us today. Not only were the wagons used by the sheep industry, but others found them highly useful as camp wagons as well. My great-grandfather and his brothers ran jerk-line wagons, hauling a variety of freight throughout the northern plains around the turn of the 20th century. They used a sheep wagon as a camp kitchen and was either pulled in tandem behind one of the freight

wagons or driven with its own team. My greatgrandmother gave birth to my grandfather in it, in 1910. Cattle ranchers discovered that it was far easier to drive a sheep wagon to the “north forty” than to haul lumber and build a line shack. On the heels of the automobile and tourism to the American West, came the bright idea of towing a sheep wagon behind the family car. I’ve often wondered if that is where the pop-up camper got its start. The origins of the sheep wagon are in dispute. Some believe the wagon “evolved” over time from similar European camp wagons. In particular, the vardo gypsy wagons used in the British Isles have a strikingly similar interior design to the American sheep wagon and a few have the same arched roof as well. But credit for the invention is given to a Wyoming blacksmith. Brown and Fulton say, “The sheep wagon did not come into general use until the mid-1890s, and the first one is credited to James Candlish, a Canadian who followed the Union Pacific Railroad construction across Nebraska and Wyoming to Fort Steele. Later he opened a wagon and blacksmith shop in Rawlins, Wyoming, where in 1884, he designed and built a “house on wheels”. It was not until about eight years later, however, that a firm in Casper, Wyoming began to manufacture these portable homes for the trade.” The Casper firm referred to was the Schulte Hardware Company. They standardized the wagon to some extent, giving it the typical dimensions of 11 feet long by 6 ½ feet wide, with the stove and canvas top. It was not long before everyone was in on the act. Some were actual wagon makers, such as Candlish and D. V. Bayne of Thermopolis. Others were sheep ranchers themselves. Betty O’Toole, a retired music teacher from Rygate, Montana, who grew up on a sheep ranch in Johnson County, once told me that her father made and sold sheep wagons to supplement the family income. Even the national wagon manufacturers began making them. The Studebaker Company, wagon makers since 1850, produced sheep wagons from 1899 to 1913. Their version had a standard shell but the interiors were “made to order”. A Studebaker sheep wagon can be distinguished from another manufacturer’s by the serial number stamped into the backrest of one of the benches. Over time some modern modifications were made to the original design. Wagon tongues gave way to trailer hitches so that the wagon could be pulled by a tractor or pickup. Rubber tires replaced the wagon wheels and the undercarriage was beefed up. Since horses were no longer needed to pull them, weight was no longer an issue; and so tin sheeting replaced the canvas roof. Eventually the orders for new wagons dried up. Free-roaming flocks had long since become a thing of the past as ranch land was fenced off into more manageable acreage. The need for camp wagons dwindled with the number of sheep. Trailer houses, with more floor space and better protection from the elements, were set up for the seasonal herders. The sheep wagons were parked in their respective ranch yards or left unattended out in the hills. Some got used for spare parts or were converted for other uses. Their time had finally passed. As it turns out, the sheep wagon will not be trundling off into the sunset quite yet. In recent years people began purchasing old sheep wagons for refurbishment. Once equipped with all the comforts of home, including televisions and microwaves, they become useful as guestcabins, hunting and fishing camps, and even as “rustic” motor-hotel accommodations. Modern manufactures are specializing in selling new, high-tech camp wagons, based on the old style but built for a different purpose entirely. Some of these new sheep wagons, which are no longer used by sheep herders and no longer serve as sheep camps, look so much like a caravan camper it begs the question, “What’s the difference?” Sheep wagons remained in common usage in the sheep industry well into the mid-20th century. Even today there is a handful still being used for their intended purpose. But sadly, in northeastern Wyoming they have become as rare as sheepherder monuments and… well… sheep.

12

By Mike Borda The story of Lewis and Clark is one that has been told throughout the history of America. It is a story of courage, exploration, discovery, and one that should never be forgotten. The journey began preparation in 1802 when President Thomas Jefferson, after reading a book about expansion into the heartland of the continent, decided to commission his own expedition. One year later, he created the Corps of Discovery. Needing a leader for this trip, he scanned the military and found a suitable candidate in Meriwether Lewis, who had been a Captain in the United States Army. Lewis, an avid outdoorsman in his youth, joined the Army in 1795, eventually working with a man named William Clark, who he would later select as his partner in the expedition. The journey of Lewis and Clark began on May 14, 1804 from Illinois, with the mission of claiming land for the U.S. all the way to the Pacific Ocean. After Lewis’ team reached Clark’s team, located in Missouri, they began traveling down the Missouri River. By the end of summer, the team had found the Great Plains of the Midwest. One of the more historic moments of the journey came in their first winter, where the team met Toussaint Charbonneau, a French Canadian fur trapper. Having had many translation problems with the local tribes they met along their way, they turned to Charbonneau’s wife, a Shoshone woman named Sacajawea, to help them. Hiring the couple as official translators, they continued onward into the continent, next reaching the Lemhi Pass, on the border of what is today

Montana and Idaho. To this point, they had simply been following the Missouri River, but they soon decided to traverse the smaller Clearwater, Snake, and Columbia Rivers. On November 7, 1805, the team reached the Pacific Ocean, with Clark noting of the ocean in his journal, “O! The joy.” Having not reached the Pacific until winter, they decided to remain near the coast for the remainder of the season, leaving again on March 22, 1806 to finally head home to the States. Their journey home, however, was no less difficult than their journey there. After separating near the halfway point, both men and their parties had numerous run-ins with local tribes, and the encounters did not go well. Neither did their reunion, as one of Clark’s men shot Lewis from afar, after mistaking him for an animal. Lewis and Clark finally returned to United States territory on September 23, 1806, in St. Louis. They had learned much of the local cultures in the American West, and had mapped out a large part of the new land. They had also performed many scientific studies, recording many new animal and plant species that Americans to the east had not known to that point. The United States of America as we know it was still being formed when these men set out and today we have them to thank for providing us with the details of the land many of us now call home. Although they were not without their own trials and failures, they set out bravely to explore the largest frontier of their day, and that is something we can all respect.

“A government big enough to give you everything you want is a government big enough to take from you everything you have.” - Gerald R. Ford

To place a classified ad, email us at Classifieds@CampbellCountyObserver.com Include name, phone, e-mail and physical address. For more information go to www.campbellcountyobserver.net

Subscribe Now Mail this form, along with payment, to our office at 5105 Tarry St. Sleepy Hollow (Campbell County), WY 82718

12 Weeks - $12.00 26 Weeks - $25.00 52 Weeks - $50.00

Name Address Phone Number To Pay with a Credit/Debit Card, please call our office at (307) 670-8980 or visit our website at www.campbellcountyobserver.com

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.