The Campbell County Observer ZZZ FDPSEHOOFRXQW\REVHUYHU QHW www.campbellcountyobserver.net
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Week of April 1520- 22, May - 27,2011 2011
Photographed by Justin Hillius
A.B.A.T.E. Parade well “Health Buddiesâ€? attended Support for Medicaid Clients Wyoming Department of Health, will staff the project. These nurses will monitor information submitted by patients and FDQ Ă DJ FOLHQWV IRU IROORZ XS LI WKH\ detect potential problems or increased symptoms of concern. “Depending on the case and the patient’s needs, they may call that patient to discuss their condition or they may help ensure the patient visits a doctor,â€? Bush said. “The Health Buddy system has been used for a number of years in other programs such as the Department of Veterans $IIDLUV ZLWK WHUULĂ€F UHVXOWV Âľ %XVK VDLG “It’s been proven to reduce the number of hospitalizations and costs associated with managing chronic illnesses.â€? Bush noted the initial project is limited to 100 patients. “Because we are interested in better patient care and cost avoidance through improved prevention, we are focusing on cases with the highest rate of expense and use,â€? he said. “We hope to expand the program should we see the good results we expect.â€? The Health Buddy effort is part of the Healthy Together program offered to all Wyoming EqualityCare clients at no cost. The program, which is operated by APS Healthcare, provides one-on-one support from a nurse, educational materials to encourage the self-management of health and help in coordinating care among multiple providers. Healthy Together also provides EqualityCare clients with information on weight loss, smoking cessation and how to adopt healthy lifestyles. For more information on Healthy Together please contact APS Healthcare at 1-888-545-1710 extension 7089 or visit www.WYHealthyTogether. com. The Health Buddy devices are provided by Robert Bosch Healthcare Inc., a leading provider of innovative tele-health systems. For more information, please contact Edie DeVine at 415-365-8543 or visit www.bosch-telehealth.com.
K&R Auto & Truck Repair (307) 686-7782 5840 Mohan, Unit B Hours: Monday - Friday 8AM - 6PM Saturday 8AM - 4PM To submit a quote of the week go to www.campbellcountyobserver.net include your name with the quote to be featured in the paper.
Aging and Disabilities Conference for Cheyenne Aging and Disabilities Conference Set for Cheyenne With a theme of “Powering toward the future,â€? the 2011 Wyoming United for Aging and Disabilities conference will be held May 3-5 in Cheyenne. The conference, hosted by the Wyoming Department of Health’s Aging Division, will be held at the Little America Hotel and Resort. Conference sessions will cover a variety of topics related to the human VHUYLFHV Ă€HOGV RI DJLQJ PHQWDO KHDOWK and substance abuse, and disabilities, including developmental disabilities. The keynote/banquet speaker will be Dr. Walter Bortz. Bortz is one of America’s PRVW GLVWLQJXLVKHG VFLHQWLĂ€F H[SHUWV RQ aging and is a clinical associate professor of medicine at Stanford University. Additional session topics include the Wyoming Aging and Disabilities Resource Center, Green House Living, Accessing 66, 66', %HQHĂ€WV 'HYHORSPHQWDO Disabilities Panel: Shifting to SelfDirection Care Plans, Multicultural Aging, Medication Use and Abuse, Healthcare
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Reform, Reverse Mortgages, and the Aging/Mental Health/Development Disabilities Panel. A pre-conference session the morning of May 3 from 9 to 11 a.m. will cover emergency preparedness. A postconference session on May 5 from 12:30 to 5 p.m. will cover emergency preparedness training in detail. The conference registration fee is $150 before April 24 and $175 after April 25. Online registration is available at http:// guest.event.com/d/ldqb91/1Q. For more information about attending the conference please call the Aging Division at 1-800-442-2766 or send an email to wyaging@health.wyo.gov. The conference is sponsored in part by the Wyoming Department of Health’s Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Division, the Wyoming Department of Health’s Development Disabilities Division, and AARP. Contact: Kim Deti Phone: 307-777-6420 www.campbellcountyobserver.net
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Contact: Kim Deti Phone: 307-777-6420 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Health Buddiesâ&#x20AC;? to Support Wyoming By Medicaid Clients Sandra Certain selected Wyoming EqualityCare Boehler (Medicaid) clients are beginning to use â&#x20AC;&#x153;Health Buddyâ&#x20AC;? devices for a costeffective connection to enhanced medical care as part of a new Wyoming Department of Health effort. A number of people showed up The new Healthy Together Health to support the A.B.A.T.E parade Buddy Project, designed especially for this past week. Despite(Medicaid) the cold the Wyoming EqualityCare morningwillthe spectators enjoyed program, connect certain clients to the spectacle. Several medical professionals whoparticipants will directly monitor their health status using telerode the designated route to raise health technology. money for community needs. The The Healthended Buddyatis the a small, easy-toparade Gillette Riduse device that is placed in a clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ers Organization free public picnic home and is attached to a phone line. which wasasks taking placea at Dalby The system patients series of Park. Burgers, dogs, questions. chips and individualized and hot interactive drinks wereit basically served involves to all who atâ&#x20AC;&#x153;For patients, logging and braved afternoon intended to a computer over thethe phone line so that youOrganizations can answer important questions chill. had booths to every day about your health condition,â&#x20AC;? visit with information on how each said James Bush, Medicaid medical oneDr. helps local people of the area. director with the Wyoming Department A dunk tank was planned for the of Health. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The system also allows for event but due to data cool such temperatures sharing important as blood it was eliminated. pressure readings or sugarAppreciation levels.â&#x20AC;? wasexample, shown we to the cooks for grilling â&#x20AC;&#x153;For know Medicaid clients as ithave seemed a lot of people who experienced heart failurewere are frequently candidates fortheexpensive hanging around to feel warmth hospital readmission. This is should both costly on their hands. Thanks go WR RXU SURJUDP DQG GLIĂ&#x20AC;FXOW IRU WKH SDWLHQW to all of the organizations who set to endure so we want to help them up booths and shared information avoid future hospital stays or complex with the community. procedures,â&#x20AC;? Bush said. The National Armed â&#x20AC;&#x153;With thisForces program,FreedomRide we can set upwill a be taking 21, Health Buddyplace deviceSaturday, in a heart May patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2011. Please come andâ&#x20AC;&#x153;Using show the our home,â&#x20AC;? Bush continued. Health Buddy, the patient for canour answer communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support soldaily questions about medications and diers. potential symptoms such as shortness of breath or weight gain.â&#x20AC;? $36 +HDOWKFDUH QXUVHV DQG FHUWLĂ&#x20AC;HG FDVH managers, under a contract with the
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Community Dr. Monica Morman authors Journal Article
Monica Morman, MD, FAAOS, CAQSH, orthopaedic surgeon at Orthopaedic Specialists of Wyoming, a Campbell County Memorial Hospital clinic, was the primary author of an article published in the March issue of the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. The article, entitled Arthroscopic tissue biopsy for evaluation of infection before revision arthroplasty, stemmed from a project Dr. Morman completed during her Shoulder and Elbow Fellowship at the Harvard Shoulder Service, Massachusetts General Hospital in 2009. Dr. Morman specializes in surgery of the shoulder, elbow and hand, and is Board Certified in Orthopedic Surgery, with Certification of Added Qualifications in Surgery of the Hand. She is in practice with orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Gilles and non-surgical orthopedist Dr. Patricia Connally at Orthopaedic Specialists of Wyoming, located on the 3rd floor of Campbell County Memorial Hospital. Call 688.3500 for an appointment.
Everyone in Campbell County loves Motorcycles
Even Start Family Literacy Even Start Family Literacy provides Adult Education, Early Childhood Education for children ages 0 – 5, and Parenting classes for under-educated families. According to research, the achievement of a child in school is directly related to the level of education of the mother. When Mom drops out of school, then her children also drop out. PARTICIPANTS: Families are eligible if one or both parents are without a high school diploma or they have English as their second language and they have a child under the age of 8. In Gillette, 99% of the enrolled adults are mothers. An average of 40 families participate each year involving between 70 and 85 children. Fifty-seven percent of the adults have a 9th grade or lower education level upon enrollment and language and math skills as low as 3rd grade. OUTCOME: Mom acquires English speaking, reading and writing skills and/ or increases her academic level. When she reaches the 9th grade level she moves from the Adult Basic Education group to the GED group. OUTCOME: Mom learns and practices positive parenting skills such as reading aloud every day to her children, using positive discipline techniques and becoming a partner in the education of her children by consulting with teachers and by teaching language and math at home with common household items. OUTCOME: Children’s develop-
mental levels are increased through research-based play experiences in Even Start’s Early Childhood Education Centers and through Mom’s new attitudes and strategies. When they reach kindergarten, these high-risk children from poverty and illiteracy are ready and able to learn in a middle-class setting with middle class expectations. No Child Left Behind mandates regarding minority parity are met. OUTCOME: The self-esteem of Even Start parents and children is raised substantially after only 6 weeks in the Program. The Federal Government has eliminated funding for Even Start after 22 years. This year Wyoming received $280,000 in Federal funding. The Gillette Program’s current budget includes $45,000 in Federal funding. MISSION STATEMENT: Empowering parents to give their children the best possible start in life. GOAL: Enable families to break the cycle of poverty and illiteracy into which they were born. DOES EVEN START FAMILY LITERACY MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR THIS COMMUNITY??? Even Start is tracking current and former participants’ children through school. They would be expected to drop out like their mothers without family literacy intervention. This year there are 110 students in the 3rd – 12th grade pool.
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FIRST SEMESTER, 2010 - 2011 59 Elementary (3RD – 6TH grade) Children have an average GPA of 3.23 51 Secondary (7th – 12th grade) Students have an average GPA of 3.25 Average GPA of all Even Start highrisk students = 3.242 Twenty-one Even Start students posted a 4.0 GPA. Total Attendance of 135 current and former Even Start students (including K – 2nd) = 95.88% CCSD average attendance = 93.68% Based on attendance, grades and knowledge of families, Even Start projects a 94% graduation rate for this group of students. CCSD graduation rate is 80% and State graduation rate is 79%. Campbell County School District receives State funding based on number of students enrolled. Based on the 94% graduation projection over a 13-year span, CCSD will benefit by $2,996,680 in funds that would not be received if Even Start students dropped out of school after 10th grade, as research says they would. “Footsteps for Family Literacy” is in it’s 6th year. Envisioned and made possible by the Energy Rotary Club, the event has continued to grow. Last year, 140 walkers participated. With their funds raised and $1,600 from local businesses plus a $4,400 contribution by Energy Rotary, the event raised just over $12,000.
“Eye on Gillette” “Eye on Gillette” is a promotional and informational program produced by Gillette Public Access Television. It highlights the best that Gillette and Campbell County have to offer. You can see the latest episode of Eye on Gillette on Public Access Channel 31 at the following times: Sunday - 6:00 AM Monday - 7:00 PM Tuesday - 12:00 PM Wednesday - 4:00 PM Thursday - 8:00 PM Friday - 12:00 PM Saturday - 3:00 PM If you have a story idea that you would like to see appear on Eye on Gillette, contact GPA at (307) 686-5745 or PO Box 3003, Gillette, WY 82717.
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Community Campbell Co. Homeschoolers to graduate May 21 The graduation for Campbell County Homeschoolers will be held at Westside Baptist Church on Saturday, May 21, at 2:00 P.M. Every school year there is a shared graduation ceremony for interested participants. Clary Partridge, organizer for this year’s ceremony, said last year there were about 11 homeschooled graduates, this year there are about six. Congratulations to these Campbell County homeschooled high school graduates.
Young American Creative Patriotic Art Awards presented On Tuesday, May 17th, the local awards for the Young American Creative Patriotic Art Awards were given at the Campbell County Library. The original artwork, certificates of show and check awards were to be given out at that time. First place recipient, Taylor Ladd’s art was still at the state facility, but did receive recognition by the VFW Auxiliary
with her check and certificate. Ladd’s piece has also won third place in the state competition. Third place recipient, Juan Rodriguez, was not able to attend as he was singing at his Senior Concert in Wright. Both second place recipient Rachel Harper and fourth place Ashley Schmidt were present. The VFW Auxiliary’s Chaplin Janice
Miller encouraged all in attendance to try again next year. “Not just for this, but also if you write, there is the Voice of Democracy,” she wanted to stress. “This award is for ninth through twelfth graders to show what they view as patriotism in art.” The national winner will receive $10,000.
Wyoming delegation sign on constitutional amendment By Bill McCarthy - Cowboy State Free Press Wyoming’s congressional delegation signed on today to a proposed constitutional amendment allowing states to repeal federal laws and regulations. The Repeal Amendment is needed because the federal government has overstepped its role, supporters said. The amendment is needed to put the Constitution back to the original intent of the Founding Fathers. Members of the Wyoming delegation did not respond to questions about why the idea is different than the nullification that started the Civil War. “There are some people who may talk about this as a states rights issue or a nullification process or make references to the Civil War. If they do so they are too shallow in their looking at what this is about,” said Utah Republican Rep. Rob Bishop, however. Bishop said, “The philosophy of nullification is that an individual state can declare an act of Congress or a policy null and void within that state.” The amendment does not taking power from federal government, Bishop said, but gives states the ability to force the federal government to rethink laws and regulations. He said if the amendment were to
pass it would require two-thirds of the states – 34 state legislatures – to agree on the same resolution to repeal a federal law or regulation under the plan. Congress could then come back and adopt the laws or regulations, but it would force the federal government to rethink policies. Bishop said the idea is not partisan, though only Republicans have declared support for it today. “From my standpoint it’s mostly about the regulations that are being passed that don’t have a lot of constitutional backing,” said Wyoming U.S. Sen. Mike Enzi. Fellow Wyoming Republicans Sen. John Barrasso and Rep. Cynthia Lummis are also supporters. Barrasso said, “As Ronald Reagan said, ‘Government is not the solution to our problems; government is the problem.’” Speaking after Utah’s Bishop and Republican Sen. Orrin Hatch, Barrasso said, “The people of Wyoming and Utah have an identical philosophy which is the approach to Washington of just leave us alone.” Barrasso said he started with a quote from former President Reagan and he
would end with one. Reagan, Barrasso said, “‘You can’t be for big government and big taxes and big regulations and still be for the little guy,’ and I will just tell you we are all for the little guy.” The proposed amendment reads: “Any provision of law or regulation of the United States may be repealed by the several States, and such repeal shall be effective when the legislatures of two-thirds of the several States approve resolutions for this purpose that particularly describe the same provision or provisions of law or regulation to be repealed.” Along with the Wyoming delegation, Bishop and Hatch, those signing on as sponsors are Sen. James Risch, R-Idaho and Reps. H. Morgan Griffith, R-Va, Paul Broun, R-Ga., Doug Lamborn, RColo., John Campbell, R-Ca., Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., Tom McClintock, R-Ca., Don Manzullo, R-Ill., Joe Walsh, R-Ill., Louie Gohmert, R-Texas, Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, Tom Graves, R-Ga., and Tim Walberg, R-Mich. To subscribe to the Cowboy State Free Press, go to their website at www. thewyonews.net
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What’s Going On In Government? Friday, May 20 - Chamber of Commerce, Ribbon Cutting: Big Horn Dental Grand Opening, 4-6 p.m., 4405 Running W Drive Monday, May 23 - Council Budget Workshop #1, 6 p.m., 3rd Floor Conference Room, City Hall - Planning Commission Meeting, 7 p.m., Council Chambers, City Hall - Centennial Survey Marker Placement, 11:30-12:30 p.m., Court House Front Lobby - Parks and Recreation Quarterly Meeting, 4-5 p.m., Parks and Recreation Board Room - Chamber of Commerce, Wyoming Business Alliance Economics Outlook Forum, 12-2 p.m., Best Western Towers West Lodge Tuesday, May 24 - Council Budget Workshop #2, 6 p.m., 3rd Floor Conference Room, City Hall Wednesday, May 25 - Children’s Developmental Services Quarterly Meeting, 7-8 p.m., Children’s Developmental Services Board Room Thursday, May 26 - Parks and Beautification Board, 5:30 p.m., 2nd Floor Conference Room, City Hall - Mayor and City Council Projects Tour, 5:30 p.m., City Hall Lobby
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Community Legal Controversy: Raw Milk It has been the subject of a year long sting operation and a pre-dawn armed raid in Pennsylvania. FDA spokeswoman, Tamara N. Ward, states that it “should never be consumed,” and the FDA has banned its interstate sale since 1987. Eleven states ban its sale. In Wyoming, recent actions by the manager of the Department of Agriculture’s Consumer Health Services Division, has essentially made Wyoming the twelfth state to block its sale entirely to consumers. The product responsible for all this legal controversy: raw milk. Raw milk legislation and the fight to get it legalized has been a topic that has gone mostly unnoticed and unreported until this year. The April raid of a Pennsylvania Amish raw dairy farm, Rainbow Farms, made national headlines and ignited a controversy. The FDA’s complaint sought to stop Rainbow Farms from shipping raw milk and raw milk products across state lines. The FDA action angered Rainbow Farm’s satisfied customers and sparked a flurry of headlines such as, “Mopping up the raw milk mob” in the Washington Times. Most people do not hold a strong opinion on the subject of consuming raw milk. However, the idea of a sting operation and subsequent shut down of a farm with no complaints filed against it was viewed as a government overreach and a waste of tax dollars. The raw milk issue has even garnered the attention of potential 2012 Presidential candidate Ron Paul. On May 12, in response to the Rainbow Acres crackdown, Rep. Ron Paul (TX-14) introduced a bill to protect raw milk sellers and legalize interstate sale of raw milk. Paul stated in his House address, “This legislation removes an unconstitutional restraint on farmers who wish to sell, or otherwise distribute, and people who wish to consume, unpasteurized milk and milk products.” Federal law addresses only the sale
of raw milk across state lines, leaving raw milk sales laws up to the individual states. Currently, in ten states retail raw milk sales are legal. For instance, in California some grocery stores carry raw milk and raw milk products. In 15 states “on farm” sales are legal and in 4 states herd shares are legal. Herd share refers to the practice of purchasing an interest in a cow or herd and paying for a portion of the feed and maintenance costs. As a result, the share owner is entitled to a portion of the milk produced at that farm. Wyoming law states that retail and farm sales of raw milk are illegal. However, there is no law either legalizing or prohibiting herd shares. Campbell County rancher, Rep. Sue Wallis, RRecluse, has sponsored several raw milk bills since she was elected in 2007. However, in January, the Wyoming House Agriculture Committee defeated a bill 6-3 that would have taken the first steps in making raw milk available to consumers through herd shares. While there is no law pertaining to herd shares in Wyoming, a call to Dean Finkenbinder, manager of the Department of Agriculture’s Consumer Health Services Division, confirmed that the state’s current view is that they are not legal. An editorial by Lyle Williams in the Casper Star Tribune on May 13 reported that those operating herd share operations have received a letter ordering them to “cease and desist” from Finkenbinder. Thus, making all forms of raw milk sales in Wyoming illegal and thereby making raw milk unavailable to Wyoming residents who do not have their own milk cow. The FDA’s stance on raw milk is that its consumption is an unnecessary risk and that it is dangerous because it may contain harmful pathogens. Pasteurization kills those harmful pathogens and makes milk safe for consumption. In a 2009 US News interview, John
Sheehan, the director of the Food and Drug Administration’s Division of Dairy and Egg Safety, stated, “It’s like playing Russian roulette with your health”. He went on to say that the dangers of consuming raw milk range from mild food poisoning to life-threatening illness. Despite the FDA’s stance on raw milk and warnings about the dangers of consumption its popularity is gaining. With the back to local buying and organic products movements raw milk producers are seeing an increased demand for their product. In 2008, the CDC conducted a survey of 17,372 people, which found that 3 percent of the U.S. population drinks raw milk. Today that would work out to around 12 million people drinking raw milk every week. With 12 million people consuming raw milk the numbers of food borne illnesses and death as a result should speak to the dangers. However, according to the CDC in 2010, 48 million people reported food borne illnesses and 3,000 died. Of those, 50 people reported getting sick from raw milk and there were zero deaths. Dairy scientists at Cornell University issued a detailed report of every public incident of illness associated with milk from 1973 to present. Over the last 38 years approximately 1,100 have reported illness from raw milk and zero have died. However, pasteurized dairy products caused 422,000 people to fall ill and 17 have died. Reasons for drinking raw milk range from taste, to a desire to buy locally, to health benefits attributed to raw milk. Advocates of raw milk consumption claim that pasteurization harms the nutritional value of the milk and destroys beneficial vitamins and enzymes. They assert that drinking raw milk promotes a healthy immune system and prevents allergies. And while not all of their claims have been substantiated by scientific evidence, a link has been found between raw milk consumption and al-
Governor Mead urges Preparation for Possible Flooding at Today’s News Conference At a news conference today Governor Matt Mead said all Wyoming citizens need to be aware of the potential for flooding this year. “We have snowpacks in Wyoming that we have not seen in 30 years,” Governor Mead said. “The potential for flooding and the potential for damage are real.” The snowpack statewide is at 155% of average, but some areas are over 200%. “We are in a better position than we were last year as far as preparation, but we need to be because the snowpack is greater,” Governor Mead said. “We have a flood plan for Glendo State Park, which we did not have last year, and have distributed roughly a million sandbags around the state.” Governor Mead tasked the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security with leading the preparation work, which to a great extent entails supporting local governments. Director of the Office of
Homeland Security, Guy Cameron, said he has been meeting with local officials across Wyoming. He says the goal is to coordinate, assist and support them. That means looking at the planning efforts in place in each county and finding out what resources counties and cities may ask the state to provide. Cameron said everyone can start preparing now. He says everyone should have an evacuation plan for their families and should build survival kits “with food, water, clothing, important papers and a radio” so that if an event happens they are personally prepared. In addition, Cameron says, “It is critical at the local level throughout our counties that our emergency managers are utilizing their emergency response plans and communicating those plans to the citizens in their respective counties as well as towns and cities.” The State is also working with federal agencies to do risk assessment of flood
potential and put in place protective measures for critical infrastructure. The Army Corps of Engineers has already completed this process with officials in Carbon County. Also during today’s news conference Governor Mead said that Wyoming is joining the Utah lawsuit opposing the Wild Lands Order. That order was issued by Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar, in December. Wyoming will finish filing the paperwork on that lawsuit next week. Governor Mead says that the Wild Lands Order is a virtual wilderness policy and the power to create wilderness areas should be left to Congress. Governor Mead also wrote a letter to Secretary Salazar asking him to rescind this order saying that it ignores the contribution of Wyoming’s natural resources to the nation’s economic sustainability; ignores the revenues our State and local governments depend on from mineral and other development; and fails to address the impact to ranchers, recreationalists, and all the others who rely on the lands for so many different reasons.
Hospital Board sets new standard for employee bonus At the April hospital board meeting, a new standard was set for a bonus that is typically given to employees who meet a specific quota. In order to reward an employee who did not meet the qualifications for the bonus, the contract was modified to ensure that the bonus could be achieved. No performance measures were provided. It was not known how many patients had been seen or how many charts had been reviewed. It was suggested that, by modifying the contract the language should ensure that the employee was motivated to continue the exemplary job performance that had been displayed thus far. Executive Vice President Andy Fitzgerald stated that he did not feel that was necessary for this employee.
Everyone agreed that the employee deserved a raise and an increase in her bonus. The only debate was whether the criteria for deserving the bonus should be changed. Two trustees wanted actual data regarding job performance prior to deciding the issue, but they were outvoted. One of the cornerstones of business excellence is performance measurement. According to HR World, the number one performance measurement is Quantity; and that information was not available for discussion at the board meeting. The community is at the top of the organizational chart of Campbell County Memorial Hospital compared to the Board of Trustees.
lergies. Studies done in 2006 and 2007 in Europe found that children who drank raw milk were less likely to have asthma and hay fever than children who did not. Critics of the FDA’s stance on raw milk question why the FDA has such concern over raw milk. In reality, any food can cause food borne illness and there are many foods that are sold in their raw form. This includes beef, pork, chicken, seafood and produce that if not handled properly can lead to illness. Foods like sushi, steak tartar, and oyster on the half shell are all consumed raw and, therefore, could harbor harmful pathogens but are not subject to a similar ban by the government. The Westin A. Price Foundation, an organization that promotes raw milk, cites U.S. FDA statistics between 1990 and 2004 that state the food that caused the most food borne illness outbreaks was Seafood with 984 outbreaks. The next three major contributors were produce with 639, poultry with 541, and beef with 467. During that same time period only 85 outbreaks were associated with raw milk. In Wyoming, the raw milk ban is contradictory to the typical Wyoming ideal. Especially when you consider that Wyoming’s agriculture roots run deep and Wyoming is clearly a state that values individual freedom. A quick glance at the recent bills that our legislature has debated shows that their passage has hinged on that very premise. A couple examples are the carry concealed weapons bill that was founded on restoring constitutional rights, and the tougher seat belt law that failed because the right to chose was believed to be paramount. Which begs the question, why doesn’t our state government trust us with the freedom to choose our milk source?
Annual Water Flushing Program The City of Gillette Water Division will be conducting its Annual Water Main Flushing Program as the weather permits or until all areas of town are completed. The public may experience decreased water pressure and discoloration of the water. If your water is discolored, please allow your water to run for about 20 minutes or until it clears. The discoloration is primarily rust and is not harmful, however it may stain laundry. For additional information please contact the Water Division at (307) 686-5276. The City of Gillette apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.
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Community Campbell County
City Appointment The Mayor, with the consent of the City Council, appoints board, commission, and committee members, with the only exceptions being the two Joint Powers boards in which the City is a participant. The Mayor and Council make City appointments to positions on these two boards jointly. As a rule, appointments are made twice a year, unless there is a vacancy resulting from board member resignation. The following is a list of agencies, boards, committees and commissions for which the City Council has appointment authority: Board of Adjustment Quasi–judicial, statutorily established board with authority to grant variances from the City’s Zoning Ordinance. This board meets as needed on the third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. All members serve a three-year term. Board of Examiners Determines acceptable methods and materials in construction in the appeal process, review Contractor & Individual Trade License application packages (which include required documents, complaints received) and either approve or deny New and Renewal licensing as indicated by the guidelines in the City of Gillette Chapter 5 Building Ordinances. The board meets the second Tuesday of the month at noon in the Community Conference Room, located on the 2nd Floor of City Hall. All members serve a three-year term. Campbell Co. Economic Development Corporation Board Non-profit corporation, which is partially funded by the City, that was established to encourage growth in local income and employment through aiding existing businesses in their development and expansion and the solicitation of new businesses to locate in the area. The board of directors meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7:00 a.m. in the CCEDC Board Room at 201 W. Lakeway Road, Suite 1004. Campbell Co. Joint Powers Fire Board Oversees the operation of the City/ County Fire Department. This board is comprised of three City appointees, four County appointees and one appointee from the Town of Wright, all of whom serve three-year terms. This board meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. at the Fire Department’s Community Room, Station One. Campbell Co. Public Land Board The members of the Land Board are responsible for overseeing the orderly development and improve-
ment, maintenance and operation of the CAM-PLEX property and facilities. This board is comprised of two City appointees and five County appointees, all of whom serve three-year terms. The board meets the second Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the Board Room at the CAM-PLEX. Gillette Public Access Commission Advises the City Council on studio operations, supervises the studio, and outlines rules for the public access to the PEG Channels. It is comprised of seven City appointees. The Commission meets the first Thursday of each even month (Feb, Apr, June, Aug, Oct, and Dec) at 12:15 p.m. at City Hall in the First Floor Conference Room. Gillette/Torrington Joint Powers Board Created under a Wyoming statute that allows Wyoming municipalities who owned electrical systems before March 1, 1975, to finance expansions to their electrical systems by bonds issued by the Joint Powers Board. The Joint Powers Board has 9 members, 3 of whom are appointed by Gillette, 3 by Torrington, and 3 by Basin. This board meets on an “as-needed” basis. Investment Advisory Committee Advises the Finance Director and City Administrator on investment matters. Responsibilities will include periodic reviews of the investment policy, making recommendations for the development of an asset portfolio of the investments for the City of Gillette in compliance with Wyoming Statues that limits risk and provides adequate liquidity in an effort to maximize the rate of return. This committee meets quarterly the third Thursday of each new quarter (January, April, July, and October). Joint Powers Lodging Tax Board A Joint Powers Agreement to establish the Lodging Tax Joint Powers Board was prepared and approved by Campbell County, Gillette and Wright and then formally approved by the Wyoming Attorney General on December 5 of 2008. The board has 7 members, a majority of whom are from the travel and tourism industry. The board meets the first Wednesday of each month at 5:00 p.m. at the George Amos Memorial Building. Mayor’s Art Council Advises the City Council on ways to create a more visually pleasing environment within the community and expand opportunities for residents and visitors to experience quality works of art in public places. Meets in City Hall 3rd floor conference room. Meeting dates change each month. Call (307) 686-5203 for more information.
Parks and Beautification Board Advises the Mayor and Council on all park development matters, reviews landscape plans associated with the development process, and promotes beautification of the City. Meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m. in the Community Conference Room on the 2nd Floor of City Hall. All members serve a threeyear term. Personnel Review Board Reviews employee grievances and complaints and makes recommendations to City Administrator. Two employees serve on the board along with three citizens. Citizens serve a threeyear term and employees are elected for a two-year term. This board meets on an “as needed” basis. Planning Commission Advises the Mayor and City Council on planning, zoning and development matters. The commission meets the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Public Works & Utilities Advisory Committee Advises the Public Works Director, Utilities Director, Director of Engineering & Building and the City Council on utilities, engineering, and public works matters. Responsibilities include periodic review and recommendations of standard construction specifications and engineering design standards; building codes; water, sanitary sewer, and electrical utility policies. The committee meets the third Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. (except June, July, and August) in the 2nd Floor Engineering Conference Room at City Hall. Retiree Health Benefit Plan Committee Interprets and administers the Trust for retiree. Meets on an as-needed basis with a minimum of once per year. Urban Systems Advisory Committee Established under the Wyoming Department of Transportation Operating Policy 2-4 with the purpose to evaluate the transportation needs of the urban area, compile and prioritize a list of potential improvement projects constrained by available federal and local matching funds, and submit said list to the appropriate governing bodies for their approval. The Committee is mandated to meet annually during the month of November and at other times as necessary on the call of it’s Chairman.
Sexton discusses function of cemetery district Darin Edmonds, sexton for the Campbell County Cemetery District, is one great example of what the Cemetery Board has done right. Very knowledgeable, and willing to share that information, he took an hour out of a busy day in April to discuss the function of the cemetery district he is manager for. Edmonds discussed special districts and state statutes with the same ease he displayed when talking about mowing the lawns in the summertime. He said every special district is a publicly funded governmental entity unto itself. In the case of the Cemetery District, the Board is elected, and then they hire the sexton. The sexton in turn hires and administrates. As he put it, the Board sets the policies and procedures, then the sexton administers and enforces those policies and procedures. Edmonds discussed where the money goes that is disbursed to the Cemetery District. Money gets spent on equipment, maintenance, utilities, and on grounds maintenance and beautification. “Much of what you do at the cemetery is perpetual care, and we also do all of the burial. We do collect money for the services we provide, but that does not cover the cost of the services.” In the summer, at Mount Pisgah, they keep seven people on seven mowers for five days a week. Groups of two people alternate going out to take care of the other cemeteries. Everything is kept well groomed. Edmonds said they “meet the expectation that the grounds will be kept immaculate.” Staff also oversees the placement of monuments and headstones working with the monument companies. Infrastructure that needs supporte includes a large irrigation system and private water wells. There are also designated professional consultants including a lawyer, an engineer, and an accounting firm. Once a year, these professionals are designated for a period of time. Only those professionals are utilized for whatever they are needed to do that falls into their area of exper-
tise. For example, an engineering firm oversees the capital projects, including going out for bids, reviewing bids, and making the final recommendation to the Board. “The record keeping itself is very meticulous,” said Edmonds. In addition to the time investment, there is the additional expense of supplies, insurance, licenses, fees, professional fees, and office supplies. Recent upgrades in services provided to the public by the Cemetery District include their new website. Edmonds also discussed an information kiosk that was planned before he was hired, and is still planned for in front of the Cemetery office. Just like using the website, you can type in the name of the person you are looking for and the kiosk will spit out a colored printout that you can use to navigate directly to that plot within the cemetery. The kiosk is taking longer than expected due to the fact that the manufacturers of kiosks are geographically distant, he said, “but we’re getting there.” Then he added, “We have to build a structure out there. It will be a little walk-in thing. It will be a little more logistically involved than the website was.” After obtaining a degree in publishing and administration, Darin Edmonds spent 15 years in magazines. He was production director for Western Horseman Magazine for 10 years, meaning he, “Hired writers and photographers and made sure everybody got everything together.” He also ran a small business in remodeling and construction. He returned home to Gillette in 2009. Edmonds discussed a possible event this summer where the Toastmasters, as part of the Campbell County Centennial, might do a historical tour at Mount Pisgah Cemetery. It would be at night and they would sell tickets for it this first year. The plan was that they would pick out certain historical figures or early Campbell County ranchers, and then have actors portray those people.
So, those figures would be standing there and tell some sort of story about the history or life of the character they were representing. Edmonds said there is a whole history just in George Amos. Then he mentioned Lou Butler, who was the first sheriff, and the Daly Brothers, who had the old Daly Brothers store. Edmonds said he is a history buff anyway, and he is quite excited about seeing this event take place, and really hopes it happens.
Fire Department May 8, 2011 - At 9:34 AM to the 2600 block of South Douglas Highway for a medical assist. Responding fire units were cancelled by en-route. - At 9:57 AM to the 7100 block of Robin Drive for a medical assist. - At 12:11 PM to the 5200 block of Rocky Point Drive for a medical assist. - At 12:17 PM to 601 Tyler Avenue (Birchwood Apts.) for a fire alarm. A fire alarm pull station was activated by an unknown person(s). There was no fire. The fire alarm was reset. - At 3:23 PM to the 1000 block of Church Street for a medical assist. - At 5:01 PM to the 100 block of Mesa Drive for a medical assist. May 9, 2011 - At 5:53 AM to American Lane for a medical assist. - At 5:48 PM to Green Ave. for a medical assist. May 10, 2011 - At 3:43 a.m. to South Douglas HWY for an EMS assist. - At 6:04 a.m. to mile marker 137 on I-90 for a 2 vehicle collision. Three people were transported with injuries to CCMH-EMS. May 11, 2011 - At 2:02 PM to 806 N. Gurley for an EMS assist. - At 4:18 PM to 12th St. and Santee for a report of a 2” natural gas line that was undergoing repair when a cap became dislodged. Source Gas was able to cap the line, fire crews pulled a protection line and provided a backup crew while they worked on the line. - At 6:38 PM for a report of an automatic fire alarm to Campbell County Memorial Hospital. All units were cancelled by the maintenance staff prior to arrival. May 12, 2011 - At 10:03 AM to the 5600 block of Stone Trail Avenue for a medical assist. - At 10:06 AM to the 900 block of West 8th Street for a medical assist. - At 10:07 PM to the 300 block of East 2nd Street for a medical assist. - At 10:09 PM to the 100 block of East Laramie Street for a medical assist. May 14, 2011 - At 10:39 a.m. to 120 South Gillette Avenue to assist Gillette Police Department officers with an investigation. GPD officers needed a ladder to access the roof of the building. - At 5:08 p.m. to East Longmont Street for an EMS assist. May 15, 2011 - At 7:19 AM to Newton Rd. for an EMS assist. - At 10:00 PM to Harder Dr. for a two vehicle accident with injuries. - At 10:27 PM to the 500 block of Four J for open burning in the city limits, the owners were asked to extinguish their fire pit, which they did. May 16, 2011 - At 6:20 AM to the 400 block of Brooks Ave. for an EMS assist. - At 6:08 PM to 308 W. Lakeway Rd. for a reported gasoline spill. Firefighters arrived and contained approximately 5 gallons of spilled gasoline. The spill was caused by a faulty hose for the gas pump.
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Community
Firefighters are quick to help the residents Of Maderville By Traca Wheeler This past Saturday the residents of Mader Ranch (commonly known as Maderville, about 12 miles north of Gillette) awoke to fire engines, tanker trucks, and the sight of rising black smoke against a cloudy morning sky. Several Campbell County volunteer firefighters descended on the Mader Ranch early Saturday morning, anxious and equipped for whatever lay ahead. But no alarm bells rang and no one went rushing outside to find out what was going on. That’s because the Campbell County Fire Department had be invited out to the Mader Ranch in hopes that they could make what would normally be a daunting task of demolishing an abandoned and dilapidated house, into a task of simply removing some ashes. When asked if they would be willing to burn this old abandoned house down to save the residents of Mader Ranch some time and hard work, the Campbell County Fire Department was quick to agree. To most of us the thought of spending our Saturday morning in heavy bunker gear, filling tanker trucks with water, stretching hoses, wielding axes, and working in a flame and smoke filled environment is not a pleasant thought. But these firefighters look at things a little bit differently. For them this was a great opportunity to brush up on their skills, test their equipment, and have a little fun doing what the love… fighting fire. After developing a precise plan of attack volunteer firefighters from Battalions 3 and 4 were anxious and excited to practice live fire evolution training in addition to forcible entry, room search-
ing, floor sounding, and ventilation tactics on a burning structure. This kind of live fire training is what keeps these firefighter’s skills sharp and their passion to serve their community at its peak. After the structure became completely engulfed firefighters spent time testing equipment and sharing important training techniques with one another. There was also time for these volunteers to sit back and watch this beast of a fire and enjoy each other’s company. The fire was set at 9:30 am and within two hours’ time there was nothing left of the small structure but some twisted steel siding and a few concrete cinder blocks. Another hour passed while firefighters extinguished the flames and ensured that the surrounding area was clear of debris and any escaping embers. The evolution of this fire was an amazing and truly magnificent sight with flames moving rapidly from one section of the house to another, growing higher and hotter with each passing second. Of course this structure was not occupied, and no lives were at risk however, I found myself feeling very thankful that these volunteers were willing to spend their weekend training and preparing so that when the time comes they will be there, ready and able, to save my home or more importantly… someone’s life.
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Community What’s Going On? Friday, May 20 - Artist of the month, Mae Gill, CCPL - Teen New Volunteer Sign Up, CCPL - Family Night BBQ, 5-7 p.m., $2.50 per person, Boys and Girls Club - Open MIC Night, 7 p.m., Brothers Coffee - Choose Dance Recital, 7 p.m., Camplex Heritage Center (CCHS) - New Exhibit Now Open, Horses and Heroes- Behind the Scenes of the Rodeo, Rockpile Museum
From Republican Women’s Association By President Pam Werner Our very own Representative Sue Wallis will be our featured speaker addressing the controversial WYOMING FOOD FREEDOM ACT. This will be a very interesting topic that affects each and every one of us. Please invite your friends and neighbors as this meeting is OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND FREE!! Yes, you heard right!! The Republican Women are doing things a little differently this time. The meeting will be held Monday, May 23 from 5:30PM - 6:30PM at the George Amos Building, 412 S. Gillette Avenue in the Ponderosa Room. We will be having a POT LUCK OF APPETIZERS! Please bring an appetizer of your choice
and try to use locally grown foods, if you can. Please keep your dish to “finger food” so we do not have to supply utensils, etc. Tea and bottled water will be available. A small donation will be appreciated but not required. We need recipes for our Cook Book fundraiser for local scholarships. Please bring up to 5 recipes you would like published to the meeting or email Mary Horning at mhorning@bresnan.net. We also need volunteer for the State Convention being held September 9 11, right here in Gillette! The President of the National Federation of Reublican Women will be in attendance so we hope to make this a fantastic Convention while we show everyone what a
great community Gillette is. Please let us know if you would like to participate in this event. If you have not renewed your membership or know of someone who would like to join our membership is still only $20.00. Associate (Men’s) memberships are $15.00 and Junior Memberships (age 13 - 17) are $10.00. Please RSVP by replying to this email or call Pam Werner at 660-0505. We are very excited to have Representative Sue Wallis as our Guest Speaker on this very important topic. Don’t forget to invite family, friends and neighors. We hope to see you all there.
Parks and Beautification Board makes recommendations to City Council The May meeting of the City of Gillette Parks and Beautification Board had no new business on the agenda. Norm Curtis, a board member, took a few minutes out of his work day at Haggerty’s Music Works to share information as to what the function of the board is. The Parks and Beautification Board make recommendations to the City Council on a variety of things. Park location, park styling, and other beautification goals for the community are among them. Also, if businesses need to get approval of beautification for building permits, that passes through the board.
Curtis said they had the pleasure of having the Gillette City Administrator, Carter Napier, attend the meeting as an observer. Topics the board discussed included beautification awards and Lakeway beautification efforts. The report was delivered by Rick Staskiewicz, the Public Works Director. Staskiewicz is filling in as temporary Parks Superintendent while they are searching for a new superintendent. During the March meeting Steve Augerot, the Parks Superintendent at that time, had shared information with the board. When the construction is completed on Highway 50 (Skyline Drive)
between 2nd Street and Westover Road, there will be two new planters. What will be seen leaving the westbound off ramp will be a new planter with a flag pole, the base of it will be lit up, and it will read “Gillette.” There will also be some statues and plants. On the other side of the interstate, coming off the eastbound ramp, there will be an additional planter. Best wishes to Steve Augerot as he moves forward in his career and Gillette can look forward to welcoming a new City of Gillette Parks Superintendent when the selection is made.
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Saturday, May 21 - 4-6th grade Wii play Saturday, 1-4 p.m., CCPL - Teen open play video gaming, 1-4 p.m., CCPL - Teen New Volunteer Sign Up, CCPL - CC Fair’s 4-H/FFA Tagging, 9 a.m.3p.m., Camplex Barn 3 - Meadowlark’s 6th Annual Garage Sale and Raffle, 8 a.m.- 2:30 p.m., Meadowlark School - Hillcrest “Pedals for Panthers”, 9:30 a.m.- 1 p.m., Hillcrest Parking Lot - Container Gardens, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Community Garden Sunday, May 22 - Teen New Volunteer Sign Up, CCPL - Campbell County Centennial Display, CCPL Display Case #2 Monday, May 23 - Teen New Volunteer Sign Up, CCPL - Library Board Meeting, 4 p.m., CCPL - SVJHS Choir Concert, 7-9:30 p.m., CCHS North Auditorium Tuesday, May 24 - Teen New Volunteer Sign Up, CCPL - NO STORYTIME @ CCPL - Test Proctoring, 9 a.m.- 2 p.m., CCPL(call Ara @ 687-9210 to schedule) - Teen Yu-Gi-Oh Card Game Club, 4-6 p.m., CCPL - Board of Trustees Meeting, 7 p.m., CCSD ESC - SVJHS Band Concert, 7 p.m., CCHS North Auditorium - TSJHS Band Concert, 7 p.m., TSJHS - Wright Senior Honors/Awards Night, 7 p.m., WJSH Wednesday, May 25 - Teen New Volunteer Sign Up, CCPL - NO STORYTIME @ CCPL Thursday, May 26 - Teen New Volunteer Sign Up, CCPL - NO STORYTIME @ CCPL - Teen Anime Club, 7-8:30 p.m., CCPL - Elementary Principles Meeting, 2-4 p.m., Lakeway Learning Center - CCHS Spring Band Concert, 7 p.m., CCHS North Auditorium - Westwood High School Graduation, 7 p.m., Camplex WYO Center Frontier Hall - CC Cowgirls/Cowboys, 6:30 p.m., Camplex Wrangler Arena - Senior Center Luncheon, 12-1 p.m., Senior Center Friday, May 27 - Teen New Volunteer Sign Up, CCPL - One-On-One Computer Classes, CCPL(call 687-9228 to sign up) - Rozet Field Day for Grades 1-4, Rozet - Cox Production Cruel Girl Barrel Race, 6-10 p.m., Camplex East Pavilion - NADAC Dog Trials Camping Form, 9 a.m., Camplex Barn 3
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Congratulations to Addison Eldridge for graduating High School. The hard work has only begun.
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Business
Ice Cream Land The first feeling you have when entering Ice Cream Land is that you have time warped back to the 1950’s. The black and white checkered tile, the eight by ten photos of Harley Davidson motorcycles and Elvis Presley, and the Coca Cola wallpaper borders all make the time warp come alive. The second feeling is of unconditional love. “Kids lika this place. Happy place,” smiles owner Halina Wojciechowski with a distinct Polish accent. “They are good in school, they are good in home, they are good in daycare, they come here for treat. That make me happy. Gillette has very nice people.” This feeling of love and appreciation has not been lost even after the store was robbed and vandalized last month. Halina has a new found superstition for the 11th. She states that something bad always happens on the 11th and that was no different for her shop. People came in a robbed her store taking money and eating ice cream with their hands. She does not think that many people realized that is what happened and that people must have thought they were closed due to a broken freezer. Halina beemed with pride when reminiscing about all the help she got to reopen quickly and she had to admit she was worried that people would not come back, but that is simply not the case Two years ago she was diagnosed as a diabetic and her husband pushed her to sell. “No,” she said, with determination. “I have job, I love my job!” Just like her, children come in with allergies and special needs when it comes to the treats they can eat. She feels it is important to be there for them and to give them what they need. Because she can relate, she takes extra care of everyone who comes in with a special request. Along with providing children with a safe place to get treats, she also takes joy in hiring kids for their first job. Not only does she take on the role of “boss” but also takes on the role of “teacher.” She says she can teach them life lessons such as honesty and fairness. It is important for them to treat everyone the same and not give favor to friends or family. “You love everyone the same,” she declares. In the middle of all this love, she was not hard pressed to say what she likes best about the job. “I love,” she says, clasping her hands together in a prayerlike fashion, “to see the little ones come, when they are too small to see the ice cream and they have to jump. And then, over the years they grow and they help
new little ones up to see in the case.” Before opening this shop, Halina was the manager of an ice cream shop in Buffalo. When the owners sold it her job was gone. She did not mind though, many people came from Gillette to Buffalo for the ice cream and encouraged her to open here own shop closer to their home. “It was fantastic. I am happy,” she says, smiling broadly. When she first bought the shop eight years ago, it was offices. All of the interior work was done by her husband Peter. “He is very nice,” she laughs. “We married in Poland. Thirty-eight year. I need medal, you know, for survive.” While they both usually go to Poland every two to three years to visit her parents, because of the robbery, this October they will not be able to. However, the love never wavered. “That’s life,” she explains with utter conviction. She feels that this person or people made a huge life mistake and later they will realize what they have done and hopefully choose not to do it again. They did not just rob an ice cream shop; they hurt the kids who love it. Getting the shop up and running again in two weeks was a family effort. Husband peter, son Chris, and son-inlaw Sam worked tirelessly to repair the damage. Even her two fourteen year old granddaughters, Kaylee and McKenna, pitched in and helped. “They like it work here,” explained Halina. “[They] clean everything, sweep floor. Very nice.” She believes that life is good with you are a good person. “You have friends and something to do.” “I like people more than money,” she continues, “…That is required for life. In America, you have chance to make $120,000 or $20,000. You have choice.” Outside of the shop is also outdoor seating. Two picnic tables on a cement block deck. “Is important,” she says, gesturing out the window. “Some days, too nice not to be outside. Every year I clean. I plant flowers. I want make nice for the people.” The ice cream shop has seen employees come, but they do not really go. She proudly showed off a college graduation invitation from a fondly remembered previous employee. “I love them so much. Finish college I tell them. That make me happy. Another is Doctor! In Dallas, Texas. Send me postcards.” ** Ice Cream Land is located at 802 E. Third and is open seven days a week from noon to 9 p.m. Espresso and Italian sodas are also available.
We want to get it Write. Oops we mean Right.
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Public Pulse Letters to the Editor Dear Editor: I am not sure how to start, but maybe people shouldn’t pride themselves as being conservative. The lack of progressiveness is the cause of a declining economy, lack of technology, and the slowing down of the industrial machine. Do you want to go back to the Stone Age? Remember, not all conservatives are stupid, but all stupid people are conservatives. Joan Hammond Editor: As with anything, you need a good balance. I do not see how being conservative does any of those things. Much of conservatism revolves around social fights, but the basic principles are smaller government, less spending, less taxes, and more freedom. I would always be careful, no matter what side you are on, to judge too quickly and to condemn an idea.
Question of the Week
To submit letters (less than 300 words) go to www.campbell countyobserver.net
Should the City Council ban concealed carry in public government buildings? “Only if they are against the Constitution.” - John Miles “Yes, the more people that carry guns, the more likely someone is going to get shot.” - Gale Jennings “If it is legal now than my opinion would be to leave it that way. If it is not than I would say the more people trained to legally carry firearms the safer people are from those who chose to carry illegally. However I don’t believe in licensing people to do things that ought to be free for people to do anyway. When criminals are aware that the people they intend to victimize possess lethal force they are less likely to commit to the crime yet more likely to use lethal force of their own. I do believe that it is un-American and cowardly to relinquish you rights and freedoms for the false promises of safety or protection.” - Mike Bucello
Dear Editor: I knew it would happen. I watched the City Council meeting last night and yup, here comes more spending. Now that we voted in the tax, we can spend… spend…spend… and spend some more. Why do we keep putting up with this? Editor: Well, it is always much easier to spend other people’s money. My suggestion, as always, is to attend the City Council meetings to speak up. The only way that a community can operate to the best of its ability is for the community to be completely involved. Dear Editor: I finally got myself down to Perkins to purchase a copy of the paper. THANK YOU SO MUCH for the news about Footsteps for Family Literacy. The picture was good and the article full of information. We really appreciate being included in your “community” publication. Together we can make a big difference!! Thanks again, Helen Mathes, Coordinator WY Family Literacy - Even Start Editor: You have a great program. I hope that you can find all the funding and the help you need to keep helping the way you do.
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You may submit your open articles the following ways: Mail your article to 5105 Tarry St., Gillette, WY 82718 or E-mail your article to: OpenArticles@CampbellCountyObserver.com This is our open article section where the public may submit any article that they would like to see printed. This can be poetry, cooking, vacations, recipes, hunting/fishing stories, politics, philosophy, news, theory, or anything that you believe that the local news is missing and should be recognized. This article is subject to editing by our staff. This section is for fact, not opinions. We will not print submissions about politics (though policies are ok), religion, or self advertisement. This is your chance to be a local journalist, or to submit your ideas to your community. Limit of 1000 words.
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Public Pulse Bold Republic Weekly Taxing Evil Greedy Grandma! By Glenn Woods
Our Public Servant By Karen Waters
When Dan Weischedel, a Gillette Post Office employee of 19 years, age 55, was a little kid, he had an average interest in dinosaurs. In 2001, he began collecting dinosaur fossils. Now, he has “a little bit everywhere.” “It’s more fun to find it,” he smiles sheepishly, “than to clean it.” It is a collection in the hundreds, mostly found in Wyoming and Montana, and currently housed in several locations. “I wish I had started looking sooner. Like when I was in South East Asia, in Bangkok, Thailand,” he shrxgs with a smile. “I go and look for areas I know where they have been. Hell Creek. South East Montana,” he explains. “I look for badlands. Even when you know what area to look in, what type of formation, you look in the draws and ravines. Sometimes they are in the place you least think they will be.” “One time in Medicine Bow,” he continues, “I started at the base of a hill looking for bone. Then you can trace it back to the source…I found a tail bone, two months later, higher up, just a different perspective. One person can walk right over something and someone else will find it.” The pride of his collection was found two years ago, a juvenile Pachycephalosaurus. He named it after his eight year old grand-daughter, Naomi, a student at Sunflower. “It was important that she can get in on the whole process, the cleaning, the reconstruction. That’s why I donated it to the Black Hills Institute in Hill City. That was back in January or February this year. Otherwise, I could have sold it to the Royal Ontario Museum. Dr. Evans, of the R. O. M., was very disappointed.” He got more excited as he recounted the story. He knew it was a ‘Pachy’, and he knew it was unusual. But exactly
what it was, he wasn’t sure. He explained how the pachycephalosaurus skull was dome-headed, thick and big. It is generally thought that during mating seasons they would knock heads together to show dominance. However, there is no “shock absorber” in the neck, like the rams have. He then went through four opinions from experts. It wasn’t until Pete Larson of Hill City examined it under a microscope that it was given the scientific description of a juvenile pachy. One of only four known skulls in the world, two are in private collections. “I didn’t want to part with it,” Weischedel admits, “but, it was important to get the scientific description and to have it available for research. The only way to do that is to donate or sell it to an official Fossil Depository.” After being cleaned, it had a high resolution CAT scan and a regular medical CAT scan. It is not complete but a resin cast is to be made, allowing Larson to reconstruct the entire skull. It is not currently on display. However, it’s finder promised to inform people when it will be available. For now, dinosaur fans will have to be content with two display cases of his collection at the Rockpile Museum featuring fossils from the Cretaceous period of 135 million to 65 million years ago. Also, the display case at the local post office is available for viewing. The post office display does change approximately every six weeks. Currently displayed is a large leg bone, and the elbow to shoulder bone of a sauropod. “All the kids know that one as the long neck from the ‘Land Before Time’ movies,” he laughed. “I found that one in a bone bed. You know, a dino graveyard.” He plans to have a new display this Sunday.
Open Article of the Week By Dagney Silkren - Keeping a watch on t.v. on our government America has long been a model for independence and individuality. During that period of time men were allowed to defend themselves, their families, and those less fortunate, against bullies, thugs, and thieves. America has entered a new era. While countries around the globe attempt, sometimes through violence, to achieve an independence of their own, our citizens are being modeled to become docile, nonresistant, and compliant with the rules. In May 2011, Glenn Woods on the Basin Radio Network discussed a Campbell County School District program which parents said was teaching students to not fight back even in self-defense; they are to either just take it or run away. Teaching non-resistance may be somewhat understandable, as fighting back (even in selfdefense) can land you in jail when you are an adult. However, other events occurring in our community suggest that nonresistance appears to be a new behavior desired for American citizens. In April 2011, the educational session of the Campbell County Memorial Hospital Board meeting, the chairman (Alan Mitchell, M.D.) was discussing a national event he attended earlier in January of this year. The event was presented by nationally respected leaders in the field (a consortium of attorneys, physicians, and persons with business expertise). In one meeting just for Board Chairs, the message presented was basically a synopsis of what any hospital has to do to be successful in the future. Dr. Mitchell said, in essence, some of this message was given throughout the week-long event. Basically follow everything the government says, follow the
government model, don’t try to buck the system, don’t take a stand against anything, just go along with status quo and accept it. The presenter then went around the room; he was basically asking if you would go back and instill what you were being told to do. There was a mixed response; some were already doing it, following along with the program. Dr. Mitchell’s response was, “I’d rather have people who thought for themselves, who could actually have an opinion of their own, and weren’t just a part of a status quo system. Being part of a group and moving forward in a positive direction also doesn’t mean to me just drinking the kool-aid and being a good boy and doing what you’re told to do.” The Gillette City Council recently considered additional restrictions on carrying concealed weapons. Such a law is further demonstration of the belief that American citizens should be non-resistant as opposed to being prepared for self-defense. In 2009, David Greenfield wrote in the Canada Free Press, online edition, in an article titled, “Whatever You Do, Don’t Fight Back,” that, although complying is the recommended option these days, when people are taught to comply, injury becomes not a risk, but a consequence. Found at http://www.canadafreepress. com/index.php/article/11162, online, the tagline underneath “Canada Free Press” is “…Because without America there is no Free World.” Contact your elected officials and board members to let them know where you stand on the message of non-resistance which is being delivered to Campbell County students and citizens.
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You know the owners of those “BIG OIL” companies are just a bunch of selfish, greedy jerks who want to run gas prices through the roof so they can sit at home, counting their money and laugh at the rest of us. HOW DARE THEY demand more subsidies from tax payers then jack up the prices at the pump, forcing the American people to suffer through inflation and darn it all, don’t they know that we are trying to pay our mortgages out here? Bobby needs braces! Money is tight these days? Don’t they know how things work in the real world? No, they do not. Because they are EVIL! Well, we will just have to fix that won’t we? Why, they should be arrested. Lets put them in yellow jump suits and show them what real work is. They should spend the rest of their lives making little rocks out of big rocks. With that in mind I wanted to find who these maniacal wreckers of society were. So I went online and, to my surprise, it took all of five seconds to find them… three of those seconds I had my eyes off the computer screen as I sipped my coffee. Gee… I figured for sure that they would be hiding behind massive high walls with armed guards and…. GRANDMA? But --- but --- those Senators on Capitol Hill held a hearing, just last week, saying that those evil oil tycoons were the reason that gas prices were so high. Those record profits gleaned from the backs of tax payers were used to finance their limos, cooperate jets and yachts. This can’t be! How is it that most of these profits were being spent on Geritol, denture adhesive and Depends? Does this mean that if we raise taxes on BIG OIL that it will cut into Grandma’s fixed income? Yes, it does. --- It seems that very little of the “Big Five” oil and gas companies are owned by the top executives or members of the board. By far most of these companies are owned by average people as part of their personal investments, IRA’s or pension funds. As I searched I found that all of these companies are publicly traded. And of all the Oil and Gas stock only 1.5 % shares are owned by board members. 29 % owned by individual investors. 42.7% owned or held by mutual funds. 18.1% held by asset management companies. 8.7% by pension funds, insurance companies, endowments and foundations, banks and other financial institutions. (http://www.sonecon.com/ docs/studies/0907_WhoOwnsOilCompanies.pdf) Then there is the little problem of “wanting high prices.” Selling gas is a volume business. When prices are high people buy smaller cars and drive less. When prices are low people buy the
biggest thing they can get their hands on and drive cross country on long vacations. So, it seems that low gas prices are better for business than high gas prices. Then there was that little problem with the use of the word “SUBSIDY.” It turns out that what these senators were calling subsidies did not fit the definition. True, there are tax breaks available to oil and gas companies. But they do not get any more or less in tax breaks than any other company no matter what is produced or sold In face, the oil companies get the same exact tax breaks as any other company. A tax break is not a “subsidy.” A subsidy is when government takes money from one group and gives it to another. Another name for subsidy is “welfare.” We have all head the term “corporate welfare.” It’s the same thing. So, therefore, allowing a company to keep more of the money that it has earned by legally selling its product is indeed a tax break, but it is not a subsidy, or welfare. You want to know who is one of the biggest recipients of “corporate welfare?” Those “Green Energy” “Green” companies receive very large gifts from Uncle Sam on the one hand, and then receive massive tax breaks at the same time. Yet still this is not enough to save them. While “Big Oil” is allowed the occasional tax break in order to offset the cost of drilling permits and leasing, “Green Energy,” such as Windmill Farms, Solar Farms, and Ethanol plants have all gone bankrupt once their government cooperate subsidized welfare runs out. While Green companies write off their losses on their tax returns, Oil and Gas companies are the ones who provide a larger number of stable jobs and pay taxes, and they do not need, nor ask for, subsidies to do it. Well, darn-it. I thought I had them. Here I thought I had the perfect demon to blame for high gas prices and cooperate greed, only to find out that it was, in fact, government who is primarily at fault for the high price of gas, inflation, and unemployment. Hmmm… well, I do still want to throw the culprit in jail. Now I see who it really is. It turns out that these Senators were only blaming “BIG OIL!” to try and raise taxes on them rather than coming out and admitting that, in fact, “BIG GOVERNMENT OVERSPENDING” is responsible for the national debt, not tax breaks for Big Oil. NOTE: The snark and sarcasm in this article does not reflect the opinion or attitude of the staff or management of The Campbell County Observer. --Well --- ok, actually the management thinks it’s funny as hell which is why he and the writer of this article like to sit in his garage smoking cigars and laughing at this stuff. But that’s beside the point.
To listen to Glenn Woods morning radio show tune in to 1270am KIML Gillette Monday through Friday from 6 - 10 a.m.
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Sports Report “Feet Don’t Fail Me 4A-2A-1A Regional Now” Road Races Track & Field Results Sheridan, Wyoming - May 13 and 14
By Keary Speer
Despite the chilly weather early Saturday morning, many people showed up at McDonald’s to run in the kick-off race for this summer’s series of 5K’s. There were 83 runners and 57 walkers who showed up to start off the “Feet Don’t Fail Me Now” Road Races. “That was by far the coldest McDonald’s race we’ve ever had,” Sandra Bott declared about the day of the race. However, that did not stop the dedicated runners and walkers from showing up at 6 a.m. Every year this race series takes place but the McDonald’s “Spring Zinger” run is one of the originals and the longest running location. The runners were to start their race at 7:15 where they are in more of a competition mode. Just before, at 7:00, was the start of the walkers, who enjoy the exercise, outdoors, and company of their companions, and the children’s 1K run. The next run takes place at the White’s Frontier Motors car lot on Thursday, June 2nd. This is only a 2 mile run and may be a perfect start for those who are not sure whether or not they could accomplish the entire 5 kilometers, or 3.1 miles. This is an evening run, starting the “Kids K” off at 6:45 p.m. and the walkers and runners at 7:00 p.m.
Next, the 4 mile race on the Fourth of July, appropriately named the “Firecracker 4 Mile,” meets at Universal Athletics, followed by the United Way 5K on July 23rd and the Big O Tire “Lyell Cotrell Memorial Race” on August 2nd. The final race will be followed by a social for all the racers to gather and celebrate their accomplishment. Those who participate in every race of the series are eligible to receive an official 2011 “FDFMN” Grand Prize. This year’s prize for participating in all 5 races is “The Stick.” “The Stick” is a massage tool that encourages increased flexibility, strength, endurance, recovery time, and reduces pain. The prize is intended to encourage everyone who has participated to continue their healthy lifestyle. To participate, registration can be done on the day of the race or there is preregistration at the Campbell County Recreation Center. Specific dates, times and fees can be found at www.ccprd.com. There is an option to purchase t-shirts to commemorate the occasion for each race as well. Help the community become a more fit place by participating and create some healthy family memories that will last a lifetime.
Legion Baseball Standings Standings as of May 16 Northeast: (Division record listed first, then overall record) Sheridan Troopers 2-0, 5-1 Gillette Roughriders 0-0, 13-5 Douglas Cats 0-0, 2-1 Casper Oilers 0-2, 6-9
Girls Soccer East Regionals at Casper (Thursday, May 12) #1 Gillette and #2 Central received a first round bye, and have automatically qualified for state. #3 Laramie (1) vs. #6 Kelly Walsh (0). Kelly Walsh Eliminated. Laramie qualifies for state. #5 East (2) vs. #4 Sheridan (1). Sheridan Eliminated. East qualifies for state. Friday, May 13 Laramie (1) vs. Central (0). Shootout: 5-4. Gillette (2) vs. East (0). Saturday, May 14 3rd Place Game: Central (2) vs. East (1). Shootout: 3-1. Championship: Gillette (3) vs. Laramie (0).
Boys Soccer
What’s Going On In Sports? Friday, May 20 - CCHS State Boys and Girls Soccer @ Sheridan, TBA - WJSH State Track Meet @ Casper, TBA - GC Cross Country/ Track Meet - Nationals Outdoor - Hutchinson, KS, TBA - Roughriders vs. Spearfish (1-9 inning)- 6:30 p.m. - CCHS State Track Meet @ Casper, TBA Saturday, May 21 - CCHS State Boys and Girls Soccer @ Sheridan, TBA - WJSH State Track Meet @ Casper, TBA - Roughriders @ Denver, TBA - CCHS State Track Meet @ Casper, TBA Sunday, May 22 - Rustlers @ Casper - 1 p.m. & 3 p.m. - Roughriders @ Denver, TBA Monday, May 23 - Loren Larson Memorial Rural Track Meet, 9 a.m., CCHS North Campus Track - WJSH Softball Tournament, 3:30-6 p.m., WJSH
East Regionals at Laramie East gets #3 seed over Kelly Walsh, due to having the head-to-head sweep. Thursday, May 12 (Games played at Cheyenne South HS, due to snow in Laramie) #3 East (4) vs. #6 Gillette (2). Gillette Eliminated. East qualifies for state.
Wednesday, May 25 - Loren Larson Memorial 6th Grade Track Meet, 9 a.m., CCHS North Campus Track - Roughriders @ Sturgis - 6 p.m. - WJSH Softball Tournament, 3:30-6 p.m., WJSH
- James Patrick Murray
Boys 100 Meter Dash 2A Fr Wright High 11.63 12.14q
3
5 Daniel Magana
Boys 100 Meter Dash 2A Fr Wright High 12.14 12.21
4
Girls 200 Meter Dash 2A 10 Shauna Rasmussen Fr Wright High 30.00 29.41 14 Jeanette Tate Jr Wright High 29.90 29.84
3 1
6 Hayden Yeradi
Girls 400 Meter Dash 2A Jr Wright High 1:06.63 1:05.83 3
4 Kodi French 12 Daniel Magana
Boys 400 Meter Dash 2A Fr Wright High 57.50 55.71Q 1 Fr Wright High 56.50 57.51 3
4
Boys 400 Meter Dash 2A Fr Wright High 55.71 54.75
Kodi French
14 Cameron Thomas
Boys 1600 Meter Run 2A Jr Wright High 5:28.00 5:23.05
10 Cameron Thomas
Boys 3200 Meter Run 2A Jr Wright High 11:30.00 11:26.26
6
Tim Benedict
Boys 110 Meter Hurdles Jr Wright High 17.92 17.22q
5
Tim Benedict
Boys 110 Meter Hurdles 2A Jr Wright High 17.22 17.23
Girls 4x100 Meter Relay 2A 6 Wright High School 55.04 54.44 - Jeanette Tate (Jr.), Shauna Rasmussen (Fr.), Tiffany Williams (So.), Anna McQuin (Sr.)
Tuesday, May 24 - Loren Larson Memorial 5th Grade Track Meet, 9 a.m., CCHS North Campus Track - WJSH Softball Tournament, 3:30-6 p.m., WJSH
“Baseball is a game where a curve is an optical illusion, a screwball can be a pitch or a person, stealing is legal and you can spit anywhere you like except in the umpire’s eye or on the ball.”
6 Daniel Magana
5
4 3
3 Hayden Yeradi
Girls High Jump 2A Jr Wright High 4-08.00 4-09.00 6
4Tim Benedict
Boys High Jump 2A Jr Wright High 6-00.00 6-02.00 5
11 Kodi French 26 Wyatt Anderson
Boys Long Jump 2A Fr Wright High 18-03.00 17-08.25 Fr Wright High 13-06.00 12-01.50
Girls Triple Jump 2A 14 Shauna Rasmussen Fr Wright High 28-00.00 26-11.75 1 Tim Benedict 6 Kodi French 18 Wyatt Anderson
Boys Triple Jump 2A Jr Wright High 43-00.25 43-08.00 10 Fr Wright High 38-05.00 38-11.50 3 Fr Wright High 27-06.00 30-08.00
7 Kiley Segelke 14 Hayden Yeradi 18 Paige Wetz 20 Ashley Schmidt
Fr Jr Jr Jr
24 Jake Fenster
Boys Discus Throw 2A Sr Wright High 88-00 74-04
7 Paige Wetz 13 Kiley Segelke 16 Ashley Schmidt 17 Billie Bell
Jr Fr Jr Jr
8 Jake Fenster 19 Daniel Magana
Boys Shot Put 2A Sr Wright High 37-05.00 37-06.50 1 Fr Wright High 36-00.00 30-04.00
Thursday, May 26 - WJSH Softball Tournament, 3:30-6 p.m., WJSH Friday, May 27 - Rozet Field Day for Grades 1-4, 9 a.m., Rozet - Rustlers - Spearfish Tournament, TBA - Roughriders - Spring Classic Tournament, TBA - WJSH Softball Tournament, 3:30-6 p.m., WJSH
SWEDE’S SPECIALTIES Wine & Beer Brewing Supplies & much, much more!
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Girls Discus Throw 2A Wright High 106-06 Wright High 96-06 Wright High 88-00 Wright High 85-00
100-11 86-08 76-03 71-11
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Girls Shot Put 2A Wright High 29-00.00 31-05.00 2 Wright High 32-10.00 29-08.50 Wright High 28-10.00 26-00.50 Wright High 28-01.00 25-09.75
Sports Question of the Week Who is going to be in the Stanley Cup? “I think it will be the San Jose Sharks.” - Dave Sampson “BOSTON!!” - Gale Jennings “I think that Boston will take the Cup this year.” - John Fergenson
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Our Roots The Chicago Kid In the 1870’s near old Stoneville on the Deadwood-Miles City road, a gang of horse thieves set up a camp near a high cut bank. The bank had been washed out to a half-moon shape and the thieves utilized this to make a corral for the stolen stock and also as a sheltered hideout for themselves. Here they had made some dugouts and felt safe from discovery. One day in their foraging the thieves found a half-starved boy wandering over the prairie. He was just a lad of about twelve and he had no food or water. He had run away from home in Chicago and wanted to see the west where there were cowboys and Indians. The men thought that the kid had a spark, so they brought him home to their camp. They named him the “Chicago Kid.” Soon the Chicago Kid befriended an old trapper from up the creek and the trapper gave him an old rifle. It was rusty and the sights were broke, but the old man said “She’s been a might good gun in her day and she has killed a heap of Injuns and other varmints, as you kin see by them there notches,” pointing to the stock of the rifle where some fifteen or more small cuts had been made. It was the first gun that the kid had ever owned and he was mighty proud and elated. He helped the old trapper clean the gun and whittle out wooden sights for it, and even through the rifle was oldfashioned and badly worn, he learned to shoot it surprisingly well. The men teased and poked all kinds of fun at the old “cannon” but they had to admit that the boy was a better shot than any of them. One day when the thieves were leaving on a foray the Kid begged to go along, but the boss of the gang said, “No Sirree. We need a good shot like you to stay and guard the camp, and if any damned sheriff comes snooping around here you just take a crack at him.” The gang rode off snickering and the kid stayed at the camp, feeling quite important over his responsibility. He sat outside the sod shanty with his trusty old gun on his knees and scanned the skyline above the cut bank like a hawk. All day he watched seriously but along towards sundown he began to think that a mighty tiresome job had been palmed off on him, and he pictured with envy his companions having an exciting time chasing horses or celebrating in com trading post. He grew sleepy and was
about to nod off when he was aroused by the snorting of horses in the corral. Instantly alert he looked up to see a horse and rider appear on the rim of the cut bank. He saw the rider was none of his companions so he up and blazed away with his old rifle. The horse reared and the rider dropped limply to the ground. The kid was on the qui-vive now; he was actually guarding the camp. In a few minutes another shape appeared on the horizon, but this time it was a lone man creeping cautiously to peer over the rim. Just his head and shoulders were visible but that was enough to make a good target for the kid. He angled away again and the head disappeared. Some moments passed by and the Kid relaxed his scrutiny of the skyline and was wondering if he should cut two new notches on the stock of his rifle and thus add to the long line of scars already there when his quick eye caught the gleam of metal and the setting sun. It flashed from the top of the bank and looking closer he saw that two clumps of sage brush had suddenly grown there and the gleam came from them. Quick as a thought he squatted down and at the same time raised his rifle. Bang! Bang! Right into the sage brush and not an instant too soon, for just as he stopped a bullet whistled over his head and thudded into the sod wall of the dugout, and another kicked up the dirt just a few paces ahead of him. He leaped up and ran to the side of the dugout as he crowded close to the dirt mound he poured bullet after bullet into the clumps of sage brush until no more shots came. Soon he heard familiar cowboy yells, and the pounding of hoofs. A large of horses came galloping down into the corral, and he knew that his companions were returning with a good “haul.” He went out to meet them, proudly displaying the four new notches on his gun and bragging how he had guarded the camp. Even the thieves were astonished when they found the “Chicago Kid” had shot down four sheriffs from Deadwood, a job that the toughest outlaw had never accomplished before. He became a hero among them, but his glory was short-lived, for it was not long until the whole gang was rounded up and one by one they did the dance of death at the end of a long rope.
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Aaron Burr By Mike Borda
While many people know the story of the duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr, far fewer know what happened after the duel. While Hamilton died afterwards, Burr led a very interesting and controversial life for the remainder of his days. First, let us recap this famed showdown of colonial powers. On July 11, 1804, Burr and Hamilton met on the dueling field. However, their feud had begun long before. Political rivals, the two men first began to argue in the public eye during the 1800 election. While Burr had run as Vice-President for Thomas Jefferson on the DemocraticRepublican ticket (against John Adams no less), Hamilton was still outside of the political system, albeit with considerable political influence. On the night of the election, the electors voted evenly for Burr and Jefferson as to who would be their nominee. Therefore, being tied, the election was to be decided by the House of Representatives. But one man would do what he could to break this tie. Hamilton, of the opinion that Burr would not be a good leader of the newly founded nation, convinced the House members to elect Jefferson, making Burr the Vice President. This, for good reason, did not sit well with Burr. The two men would continue to squabble privately, until, after a series of letters, they agreed to a duel. Many historians still believe that the cause of the duel was not very solid, and that other factors may have come into play, especially considering dueling was almost unseen by this time. Regardless of the reasons, on that
“Though the people support the government; the government should not support the people.” - Grover Cleveland
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1972 GMC for sale. Torn down to frame. Body good. All parts there. Great restoration project. $750. Email NCQDeLaat@ gmail.com for information.
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1997 32ft. Class A Motor Home. Sleeps 6, Only 31,000 Miles. Asking $17,000. Call (307) 660-7520.
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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.
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day in 1804 Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton met on a wooded lot in Weehawken, New Jersey. Both men fired their guns. Hamilton, hit in the hip, fell to the ground, to die a day later. After this historic event, however, much took place in the life of the winner, Aaron Burr. Charged with murder, Burr initially left for South Carolina. But, still being the Vice President, he had to return. Burr returned to Washington not long after, never being convicted, or even brought to trial, for the murder. Finishing his term as Vice President, he had effectively ended any political power he had accumulated before the duel. Seeking to stay in the system, Burr later became involved with a plan many thought ultimately sought to create a new country encompassing parts of the newly acquired Louisiana territory. But this plan also ended in disaster. He was later accused of treason by President Jefferson (although he would be acquitted). Burr moved to Europe, trying to avoid dealing with the bad credit and bad reputation he had built for himself in America. Although he lived a very high-profile and event-filled life, Aaron Burr died rather quietly. Having come back to New York City, where he practiced law, Burr was finally tried for Hamilton’s murder, but again found not guilty. On September 14, 1836, Aaron Burr breathed his last. While many only remember the famous duel between Hamilton and Burr, we must remember that each battle has a winner and a loser, and that the stories of the men do not end after the event.
Small washer. Needs new belt, $25. Email USSailorPatriot@gmail.com
Personals Interested in founding a Sherlock Holmes Society in Gillette? Contact gillettesherlockians@gmail.com for info.
Don’t forget about the neighborhood garage sale during Sleepy Hollow Days on the first Saturday in June. Many Sales. We will have one at 5105 Tarry St. Lots of good stuff.
Wanted to Buy I Buy Militaria. Swords, uniforms, bayonets, medals, guns/parts, field gear. 6827864 Newspaper vending machines. Contact us at: CampbellCountyObserver@gmail. com
Sporting Goods Like new Horizon Elliptical. $300 obo. Call 299-7058 for more info.
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