Sunday, March 27, 2011
50¢
THE BIRD AT A GLANCE
If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will say to your mountain, “MOVE!” and it will move... and nothing will be impossible for you - Matthew 17:20
TOP OF THE NEWS Let The Boom Begin BLM and Powder River Basin Leases Annual Lisco and M Diamond Bull Sale
GLENROCK COMMUNITY - Pages 2-3 Mary Kay Kindt Community Meeting A Huge Success New Vista For Boys and Girls Club
The Official Newspaper of Rolling Hills
Carrying The Right News... To The Right Places
Volume #4: Issue 38
BLM To Offer Four Powder River Basin Coal Leases
Glenrock Wyoming’s Sunday Morning Hometown Local News Newspaper
Pyatt’s Pieces Back Next Week!
Let The Boom Begin... Converse County “King” of Eastern Wyoming Oil
Herder Sports Updates and FBLA! - Pg 5 and More!
CONVERSE & BEYOND - Pages 5 - 8 Conservation District Corner
See Story Page 2
by bill.mccarthy
Soda Ash in Wyoming
Mead to Name March 30th Special Date for Veterans
CHEYENNE – Wyoming coal mining companies have been anxiously waiting for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management to schedule competitive coal lease sales in the Powder River Basin.
Wyoming Game and Fish Business Directory Library News I’m Just Sayin’ - Cowboy Corner OH MYLANTA - AND MORE!
Gov. Matt Mead and U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced today that four new coal leases in the Powder River Basin offering 758 million tons of low sulfur coal will be put out for bid in the coming months.
all this... and so much more in your Sunday morning newspaper The Glenrock Bird
The announcement comes at the end of a review process that has taken years and frustrated executives with some coal companies as it dragged on.
PAGING WYOMING HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
The announcement allows Wyoming coal companies to plan future operations, said Marion Loomis, executive director of the Wyoming Mining Association. He said it is a positive and important step for the nation and the state.
Application deadline for U.S. Senate summer page program nears Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mike Enzi is encouraging rising Wyoming high school students to apply for one of the summer page sessions in Washington, DC.
“It’s a recognition by the (Obama) administration that coal has to be a big part of what our energy mix is – a recognition that this country has relied on coal for its electricity, and it’s going to have to continue to rely on it, even when you bring on some of these new sources – wind and solar and geothermal,” Loomis said. Salazar said the total bonus bids and royalty payments over the life of the leases should generate $13.4 billion to $21.3 billion. Wyoming’s cut is 48 percent. Coal leases are a critical revenue stream for construction of Wyoming public schools. So Salazar and Mead chose Cheyenne’s new South High media room – library – as the place for the announcement. Wyoming and the nation need electricity to fuel the economy and the state needs the jobs, said Mead, but there’s more to energy production.
The deadline for applications is March 31.
This drilling rig, just off HWY 95 in Converse County is just one of the many rigs popping up all over the Converse. See story and photos page 2- Photo © Amanda Smith
Lisco/Boner Turn Out Some Great Livestock And That’s No Bull G-Rock’s Annual Lisco/M Diamond Angus Bull Sale Another Huge Hit
“There is a strong correlation between energy production and quality of life,” Mead said. “What it really does is it provides more people with an opportunity to live the American Dream.”
Though coal’s use is criticized in the United States because of that problem, Loomis said, “The rest of the world is still going for coal.” Wyoming is seeing an increase in exports that could grow, he said.
The anticipated sale dates of the four tracts announced today are: * May 11 – West Antelope II North Coal Tract, a 2,837.63 acre area containing an estimated 350 million tons of mineable coal; offered in response to a LBA filed by Antelope Coal LLC. * June 15– West Antelope II South Coal Tract, a 1,908.6 acre area containing an estimated 56 million tons; offered in response to an LBA filed by Antelope Coal LLC. * July 13 – Belle Ayr North Coal Tract, a 1,671.03 acre area containing an estimated 222 million tons; offered in response to an LBA filed by Alpha Coal West. * August 17 – Caballo West Coal Tract, a 1,023.99 acre area containing an estimated 130million tons; offered in response to an LBA filed by Caballo Coal Company.
Page duties consist primarily of delivering correspondence and legislative material at the Capitol. Other duties include preparing the Senate chamber for sessions, and carrying bills and amendments to the desk.
by Susan Hider
Demand for coal remains strong, Loomis said.
Loomis said there is also increasing domestic and foreign demand for “metallurgical coal” used to make steel. That creates openings for the sale of Wyoming’s low-sulfur coal for electricity.
“The page program allows students to have a front row seat during debates of the U.S. Senate,” Enzi said. “The program will provide experiences that participants will carry with them forever.”
This HUGE Lisco/M Diamond Angus Bull awaits his turn during the March 25 Annual Bull Sale. Photo ©Amanda Smith
The 19th annual Lisco & M Diamond Angus Bull Sale was held this past Friday, March 25, hosted by the Central Wyoming Livestock here in Glenrock. Kevin Rothchild, owner of Central Wyoming Livestock, is always happy to see them come back. "We're here as a support role for them, and always glad to have them" Rothchild said. The event is an annual auction sale at Glenrock's "Sale Barn" with buyers attending in person and also bidding on a website called LMAauctions. com. According to Rothchild it takes about 2 to 2 1/2 hours to sell the highly anticipated and sought after
Summer Page eligibility is limited to students who have completed their sophomore year and who will be 16 or 17 years old on or before the date of appointment. Applicants must have a minimum grade point average of 3.0.
Pages are paid on the basis of an annual salary of $25,605. Pages live in Webster Hall located near the Capitol. This residence is $600 per month and includes breakfast and dinner each day.
The 1st summer session runs from June 13 – July 1. The 2nd summer session runs from July 11 – August 5. To obtain the page application and for additional information, contact Christen Thompson in Enzi’s Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-3424 or email her at Christen_Thompson@enzi.senate. gov.
livestock. The owners of the livestock are Brad Boner and Dick Lisco, both of which have been raising cattle for about 26 years but came together 19 years ago to raise and sell their 'Seed Stock'. The benifits to the buyers for the 'seed stock' is that it boosts their herds and increases the overall stock. According to Boner, "the bull calves from both ranches are put together and go to western Nebraska to mature for the next spring annual sale." They combine the bull calves in late September early October and transport them to Nebraska. Lisco stated "the buyers come from a hundred mile radius of Glenrock and Douglas, including South
Dakota, Montana and Nebraska. This year there were 100 bulls, of which were mostly yearlings and a few 2 year olds for those customers that prefer the older bulls. There were also about 76 yearling cows along with some calves both male and female." There were many people in attandace, local rancher Fluff Elmore stated "this is the best livestock around."
Congratulations to Central Wyoming Livestock, Dick Lisco and Brad Boner on another successful year.
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Announcements THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH WELCOMES YOU THIS LENT! Christ Episcopal Church in Glenrock will hold its annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 8 at the church at 415 West Cedar. Donations appreciated for the Pancake Supper to benefit a local charity. Wednesdays from March 16 to April 13, join us at 6:00 p.m. for Stations of the Cross with Bible Stuy and Soup Supper. Sunday services with Sunday School are at 9:30 a.m. For more information call Earl at 436-2206
Wednesday night GRUB night at Glenrock First Southern is BACK IN ACTION!
6:30 p.m., dinner, followed by Royal Ambassadors, (boys 3rd grade thru 6th grade) Youth Group, and Prayer Meeting. Any questions, please call Kaye Lynn Van Antwerp 251-6688.
Kindergarten Registration! Win A Maui Dream Vacation From The American Legion!
Alcoholics Anonoymous Meetings in Glenrock at The Senior Center East Door (thrift store entrance.) Monday nights at 7pm - 8pm
Kindergarten Registration will be held March 30, 2010 at The 6:00-7:00 p.m.Legion, at Grant. All 4 andof 5 year-olds, American Department Wyoming whose during the Annual in Laramie. birthday fallsConvention on or before September 15th are invited to Aattend. of (1) an Hawaii informational 7-nightRegistration vacation stay consists on beautiful Maui, Parent Orientation, (2) Completing and/or turning in reLuxurious two-bedroom condominium and $1500 travel quired paperwork, and (3) The child’s visit to the classincluded. rooms. Parents need to bring current immunization reDrawing will be held June 17, 2011 at the Commander's cords and an official and original birth certificate. All Banquet documents will be returned at the end of the evening. during The American Legion, Department of Wyoming's This is a wonderful Annual Convention.introduction for your child and we look forward to meeting you and showing you around Proceeds go towards programs and functions of the Deourpartment excitingofclassroom! Wyoming. For details and tickets Marvin now Wohletz at Grant American Registration aresee available at the ElLegion Post packets #9, ementary office, and will also be available on the night him at 462-4908 or return send inquiries to: paperwork at of call registration. Please completed Registration. All students who are registered by April Dept. of Wyoming - Maui Vacation 1320 Hugar Avenue 1stCheyenne, will be entered in a drawing for free backpacks loadWY 82001 ed with school supplies! For more information, please (Need not be present to win.) call 436-2774.
“Let The Boom Begin” By Dave Robatcek GLENROCK—Converse County has surfaced as the leader in eastern Wyoming oil drilling and despite plenty of interest and much excitement about the potential for significant finds in the other counties in this part of the state, the drilling rigs are coming here. Horizontal drilling technology and higher oil prices have spurred the activity and it looks to be just getting started. Tom Doll, state oil and gas supervisor, Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, says there has been a surge in drilling permit applications in Converse County. “What’s interesting is that all the hubbub has been about the Niobrara Formation in Platte, Goshen and Laramie Counties, and there hasn’t been a heck of a lot of activity down there,” Doll says. “Where we’ve seen the ongoing activity throughout last summer and into this spring is in Converse County and southern Campbell County.” Just since the beginning of this year, Doll’s office has processed 89 applications for permit to drill (APD) for horizontal wells in Converse County alone. “That’s double what’s going on in the rest of southeast Wyoming,” he says. “It’s sev-
eral companies, but primarily Chesapeake Energy, EOG, SM Energy and Mack Energy. These folks are gearing up for activity coming in the near future, if they’re not already out there drilling these wells.” Laramie County, which has been the focus of much excitement about the potential for huge discoveries, has seen 57 APDs this year. Last year, 38 wells were drilled in Laramie County and 33 in Converse County. “In 2010, only 10 of those 38 wells were completed in Laramie County, whereas 20 of 33 were completed in Converse County, so they were more likely to be successful and productive wells in Converse County,” Doll says. “The wells being drilled in the last year or so are pretty good wells. This is more of an exploitation of the known resource in Converse County than it is wildcatting for new discoveries.” The successful new wells here are in areas that are extensions of proven existing oilfields that have been known for half a century or more. For the most part, the producing wells are not tapping the well-publicized potential of the shale in the Niobrara Formation, but sandstone formations with names like Frontier, Parkman, Sussex, Shannon, Mowry and Turner. “What’s been drilled to date
have been tight sandstone formations. The Niobrara Formation has yet to pan out as well, but we’ve just started issuing those permits for the Niobrara,” Doll says. “The Niobrara is really two basins: the Powder River Basin, which includes Converse County, and the Denver-Julesburg Basin, which basically runs from southern Converse County to just south of Julesburg, Colo.,” says Kelsey Campbell, Chesapeake Energy spokesperson with the company’s corporate development and government affairs office in Denver. “It’s a huge play encompassing about 250,000 square miles. We do believe the Niobrara has some very good opportunities for Chesapeake.” Extraction of the oil in Converse County would not be profitable except for the new technology that exists, primarily, horizontal drilling. Campbell says that has made extracting the resource more economically viable. “Advances in drilling allow us to get down into the deep area,” she says. “The horizontal drilling, specifically, has made a huge impact.” She explains how the technology has helped producers extract oil without going to the considerable expense of drilling multiple wells. “Let’s say you have three glasses of water on a table. You can put a straw into each glass and drain them that way. But each straw costs money,” she explains. “If you were to put one straw into one glass and run it across the bottom of the three glasses and drain all three with one well, that’s more economical. Once we go sideways in a formation, it’s easier if you get all the stuff out of that one formation that way rather than poking 20 holes in the ground and get one hole producing.”
Glenrock Wrestling Club Competes in Wheatland
G L E N R O C K — Tw e l v e members of the Glenrock Wrestling Club traveled to Wheatland last weekend for the Brady Read Memorial Folk Tournament.
In the Pre-Pee Wee 41 lbs., Ayden Moultan came away with a first place win. Jarrett Guererra took third place in the same class and weight bracket. Keegan Roumell wrestled in PeeWee 40AAA and came in fifth.
Wrestling in Intermediate 70A, Casey Sebesta took second. Weston Knight placed fifth in Intermediate 70A.
In Novice 80 lbs., Isaac Ellison placed fourth. Wrestling in Novice 90 lbs., Trenton Kraft placed second.
Ethan Kraft placed fourth wrestling Schoolboy 84 lbs. Christopher Raines placed fourth in Schoolboy 95 lbs. Dakohta Reynolds, Andrew Albrandt and Zane Moore wrestled hard in Wheatland but did not place.
Isaac Arnold and Cody Pinkerton traveled to Denver to participate in the Rocky Mountain Nationals. Despite their hard work, they did not place.
The technology is paying off big for Chesapeake and other producers.
307-436-5391 - Glenrock’s Sale Barn on Hwy 20/26 - Glenrock
WINTER/SPRING SALE SCHEDULE FOR 2011 March 31st Thursday, Regular Sale
“By drilling a horizontal well and intersecting a lot more of the pay zone, these wells are coming on at least 10 times greater than a vertical well and sometimes more than that,” Doll says. “Production
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Boom Continued page 4
April 14th Thursday, "Back to Grass", Regular Sale & Horse Sale April 28th Thursday, Regular Sale May 12th Thursday, Regular Sale & Horse Sale May 26th Thursday, Regular Sale
Dick Lisco of Glenrock speaks with Bird reporter Susan Hider just prior to Friday’s Annual Lisco/M Diamond Angus Bull Sale held at Glenrock’s Sale Barn. Photo © Amanda Smith
Brad Boner of Glenrock looks over his Heifers and calves at Friday’s annual Lisco/M Diamond Angus Bull Sale in Glenrock. Photo © Amanda Smith
Sunday March 27, 2011
The Glenrock Bird
Page 2
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In the Spotlight MARY KAY KINDT For The Love of Her Community
Park Is New Vista For Boys and Girls Club of Glenrock
Megan Park - Vista for Glenrock’s Boys and Girls Club. Photo Dave Robatcek
Strategic Plan/Mission Statement in the Works for Glenrock School District GLENROCK—Converse County School District #2 is revamping its mission, vision, values and goals with the assistance of educational consulting firm Krenek Consulting of Texas. The work is being done in preparation for state accreditation that is coming up next October. The draft of their work—described as an overview of the strategic direction of the school district--was shared with the community last Thursday in a luncheon meeting at the Four Aces sponsored by the Glenrock Area Chamber of Commerce, and again that evening in a community meeting at the Middle School.
GLENROCK— Americorps VISTA volunteer Megan Park is on a mission to help bring in money and other donations for the Glenrock Boys & Girls Club.
School Superintendent Kirk Hughes and officials of the consulting firm heard broad suggestions from those in attendance, ranging from tightening attendance standards to a greater emphasis on preventing bullying.
A graduate of Northern Illinois University with a degree in elementary education, Park started her efforts for the club in mid-January and has been applying for grants and other donations to help run operations there.
Many of those commenting were in favor of higher standards in order for Glenrock schools to be seen as leaders in education and the ones by which other school districts across the state measure their progress.
She started her career as a substitute teacher, but decided that she wanted to get into nonprofit work, so she enrolled in the Americorps program as a VISTA volunteer in order to gain some experience. VISTA volunteers receive housing and a small living stipend for their efforts. Park will work at the club for a year. “My main job is applying for grants, working on fundraisers, and trying to get volunteers to help out there,” she says. “Hopefully, I can get grants and other money coming into the club. The main problem is, I have to stay away from applying for grants that the main club in Casper is going for or has gotten.” She says she has applied for grants from Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad and Adidas.
The importance of education and the schools to the community is evidenced by the turnout for the meetings, as well as the freely shared ideas. And it wasn’t just parents of school-aged children in attendance. Among the notables at the Chamber luncheon were Mayor Mike McQueary, State Senator Jim Anderson and Sheriff Clint Becker. Becker spoke at length about the critical need for staff education and strict measures for dealing with bullying. He shared his personal experiences as a parent of a child who was mercilessly bullied and the repercussions of what that represents in a child’s existence. “We have operated under a policy called ‘effective schools’ since the ‘90s and we’re polishing and updating that,” Hughes told the audience. “We’d like to get your input on the direction we need to go as a school district.” The draft mission statement
reads: In partnership with students, parents, staff and c o m m u n i t y, our purpose is to ensure all students receive quality educational experiences which empower them to be responsible citizens and lifelong learners.
The consummate community booster, Kindt landed in Glenrock in 1992 when her husband Curt got a job at a local mine. A lifelong Wyomingite, most of it spent in Medicine Bow, she had no choice but to get involved in her Mary Kay Kndt. Photo Dave Robatcek new town.
The draft values stress accountability, collaboration, commitment, excellence, integrity, respect and work ethic. And three goals appeared Glenrock School Superintendent Kirk Hughes on the draft speaks at the Community Meeting held last document: 1) week at the Four Aces. Photo Dave Robatcek Improve student engaging the parents.” achievement; 2) Improve essential academic behaviors; and 3) Ensure effective Consultant Mardi Krenek said that regular review cycles will and efficient processes. be built into the process so that Senator Anderson was among the effort holds the school disthe first to offer comments at the trict accountable to find the root cause where efforts fall short. Chamber luncheon. “I would always be more interested in the how,” he said. “We in the State of Wyoming spend a good deal of money—in fact, we’re right at the top of the list across the country in the amount of resources we devote to education—but as we step back in our review of that process, we find that we’re not getting the achievement levels that we expect. Now as we move forward in our state and identify ways that we can move forward, the question is always how. We did some things with the Legislature this year that challenged teachers, administrators and others, much to the discomfort in many instances of the teacher’s union and teachers, but we’re still left with this idea of: How is Wyoming going to do this? I think the challenge is a parallel challenge of how we’re going to do it. One of the biggest questions that we have right now is how to engage parents. We’ve got to get the school districts and others
“I’m trying to get the Adidas grant money, because I want to start a soccer clinic at the club this summer,” Park says. She says she is willing to accept any kind of donations from local businesses and that every little bit helps. Whether it is food, drink, games, sporting equipment or recreational activity donations, all are welcome. “I’m willing to work with anyone to benefit the club and the kids there,” she says, adding that they are in need of volunteers to augment the staff at the club, as well, especially during the summer months. “Anyone is welcome to volunteer and they can do it at their own convenience,” she says. “They don’t have to commit to a set schedule or number of hours. We need people who can provide one-on-one attention, just to read or play a game, or whatever.” Anyone interested in volunteering or making a donation to the Glenrock Boys & Girls Club may contact Park at the club facilities in the Rec Center.
Sunday March 27, 2011
GLENROCK—Glenrock Area Chamber of Commerce Director Mary Kay Kindt officially has been doing that job for nine years now, nearly 20 percent of her life. Unofficially, she has been at it for much longer.
“By having those review cycles, we’re going to know what’s working or not working,” she said. “And not only that, but if it’s not working, we’ll be able to find the root cause to understand why it’s not working. Or if it is really working, to understand why it is really working and then replicate that. It’s going to hold us much more accountable and true to the things that work in raising that student achievement and support all the students across the board.” Anderson suggested the addition to the values of the safety and comfort of students so that children want to come to school to learn and not be bullied. Becker said that the listed value of respect should be enhanced to include wording showing that students are respected. “I think there needs to be specific wording on students with regard to the value of respect. ‘We respect students, as well as other teachers.’ That students are respected by the teachers, as well as other teachers are respected,” Becker said. He then related the three-year nightmare of dealing with a bullying incident in Douglas that resulted in legal action. Becker offered to meet with educators in the future to share his experience in order to prevent such incidents from happening here. Other comments from the audience included ensuring that minimum standards are not the goal; getting rid of wording that suggests that average is good enough; and setting targets high so that achievement follows. The strategic plan will be refined over the coming months and will include development of teaching plans that mesh with the goals.
“The hardest thing I ever did in my life was move here,” she says. “It was like taking me from Little House on the Prairie to New York City. I was scared to death. The only life I ever knew was in Medicine Bow.” Granted, Glenrock is bigger than Medicine Bow, but not by much. “Change is hard for anybody,” she says. “I’m not a good changer; I don’t like change.” To cope, she immersed herself in the community, mostly through her kids’ school activities at first. She not only survived the change, but has thrived. Since then, in addition to her present duties with the Chamber and driving school bus part time, she is or has been active in 4-H, Deer Creek Days, Rodeo Arena council, UW Cooperative Extension Service, PTO, Glenrock Economic Development and the Herders Booster Club. “It’s been great,” she now says. I’ve been very blessed with the community and being able to jump in and be a part of it. Everybody has welcomed and helped me along the way.” She says she now has the ideal circumstances: she loves the community and it’s her job to promote it. “I am totally blessed; I have a great life. You do take part in everything when you’re from a small town,” she says. “I love my job at the Chamber. I am totally lucky and blessed on that end; I can do stuff for the community and it’s my job. And because it’s not a full-time job, I can still drive bus and be around the kids. She rattles off all the attractions: a beautiful town park, the South Rec Complex, the Senior Center, Rec Center, Centennial Pathway, golf course and museums. “Our museums are amazing and most of our stuff here is free,” she says. “People always ask what is the cost of admission to the Paleon and are blown away when I tell them there is no charge. I am not a dinosaur person and I had never been in the Paleon before I took the Chamber job. If you’ve never been in there, you don’t have a clue what’s there. It totally amazes me the people that that museum draws to our community from all over the world.” She says that she shares the concerns of local business owners who fear that recruiting new businesses to town could take away from existing businesses, but says it is a fine line. “Bringing in new businesses will help us sustain as a community because it brings in a tax base, but it’s a really fine line and we have to be careful,” she says. “But we might as well be reaping the benefits of those businesses as Casper or Douglas.” Kindt believes that the biggest challenge to Glenrock businesses is the fact that so many people work in Casper and so do their
shopping there, too.
“It’s also so easy to run over there at 8:00 or 9:00 at night when there’s nothing open here,” she says. “Our restaurants are great, but they face greater overhead costs by staying open later. If they stay open, are people willing to come?”
One of the things that sets Glenrock apart, she believes, is that local businesses and individuals are always willing to step up and help the community.
“I like the idea that most people take ownership and pride in the community and step up when needed,” she says. “I’ve asked a lot for different organizations and they always help. I do a lot with the 4-H kids and I always stress community pride. Whether you’re 6 or 10 or 60, you need to be a part of your community.”
She encourages organizations around town to let the Chamber know when they have fundraisers and other activities so that she can include them in the community calendar.
“You don’t have to be a Chamber member to be included,” she says. “The community calendar goes out with everything we send out. If there is something that gets left off because I’m not aware of it in time, it drives me crazy.”
She also encourages businesses to let her know what they would like to see the Chamber do to assist them.
“I am willing to take on the work to get it done,” she says. “Should we plan more events? Should we hold seminars on customer service or whatever? Or would it benefit us to do a home and garden show or something to get more people in here? We lost NAPA Auto Parts and that was a huge loss. How do we get people in the doors of businesses to keep them going? They’re all an asset to our community. Every little one you lose, or every family that moves out, it’s a loss.
“I’d like people to call me and tell me what they’d like to see happen in Glenrock to prevent that from happening,” she says. “Tell me what you want; I can find ways to make it happen. I’ll do the homework, legwork and whatever, but I don’t want to go on a wild goose chase.”
So in this her 20th year in Glenrock, Mary Kay Kindt has transitioned well from the scared mother and wife whose life was being dramatically changed in a move from the only town she had known. She has become the official ambassador of her new hometown. Today is her 50th birthday.
“Turning 50 does not bother me at all,” she says. “If I’m nervous about anything, it’s the fact that I’ve only got 40 years left. I don’t mind getting older; I love life.” Happy birthday, Mary Kay.
The Glenrock Bird
Page 3
Oil Boom Contniued From Page 2 rates come on very strong and then fall off. In three months, it could be half of that, but, clearly, economics are driving the activity.”
fields and existing And now they’re into the Niobrara which before was target.”
Four new rigs north of Glenrock hold promise to bring jobs to the community.
Doll says that the county’s experience with oil and its existing infrastructure is part of the reason for that.
“Studies have shown that there is an average of around 100 jobs per rig,” Campbell says. “There are 25 jobs directly on the rig itself and 25 more jobs are associated with the rig for things like water hauler. Then there are 50 induced jobs--real estate agents, waitresses, etc.--jobs created in a community because of the rig.”
leaseholds. expanding Formation, not even a
“Operators have shorter hauls to get green oil to a pipeline, and they have ways to hook up to gas. It’s just more of an
Across the vast expanse of the Niobrara Formation, Chesapeake presently has five producing wells. Three of them are in Converse County. The other two are in Weld County, Colo. The company anticipates adding more.
attention has been focused on Laramie rather than Converse County,” he says. “Of course, the people in Converse County are used to oil and gas activity, so it just hasn’t hit a lot of people’s radar, apparently.” Doll says he anticipates that for the next couple of years, the activity in Converse County will boost both the state’s rig count and overall oil production. Wyoming’s oil production has been declining for years, but has flattened out thanks to enhanced oil recovery methods like CO2 injection. If the Niobrara Formation lives up to its potential, it is possible that the state’s production numbers could see a bigger increase. “The Niobrara Formation is a new play and we don’t know yet how successful it can be in Converse County, but the potential is great,” Doll says. “We’re not yet seeing the volumes generated out of Converse County, but they’re coming. We hope they’re able to be successful with the Niobrara Formation there, and successful with it all across eastern Wyoming.”
“Across the whole Niobrara, we’re looking at possibly 10 rigs by the end of year, maybe 20 by the end of 2012 and 40 by 2014,” Campbell says. “We’re trying to find the sweet spots. A lot of it depends on what we find where.” Doll says that the Niobrara Formation holds great potential for future production and Converse County stands to benefit.
Josh Soule of Magna Energy Services out of Gillette mauevers a Scraper across the land of the Smith Ranch off Hwy 95, constructing some mile and a half of dirt roadway that will enable a drilling rig, brought on via Chesapeake Energy. to be moved in and onto the drilling rig pad that Magna is constructing. Photo © Amanda Smith
“Converse County is leading the way in energy development in eastern Wyoming now, just
oilfield-oriented environment
This appears to be just the beginning of something big; activity only promises to increase.
“It’s very encouraging and I’m
NEWS FROM THE NEST Soda Ash Royalty Relief Vital to Wyoming Jobs Lummis bill ensures Wyoming soda ash sustains its global competitiveness WASHINGTON, D.C - U.S. Representative Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) has introduced H.R. 1192, a bill to ensure Wyoming soda ash production sustains its global competitiveness by extending the current two percent soda ash royalty rate through 2016. The current royalty rate is in danger of expiring in October. Lummis released the following statement: “Maintaining a robust soda ash industry is vital to thousands of jobs in Sweetwater County. Although our proud tradition of soda ash production continues to be a force of economic strength for Wyoming and our country, overseas competition and rising energy costs have undercut Wyoming’s status as the largest soda ash producer. “China’s unfair policies, which
Converse County Relay For Life will be held on June 10 & 11th at the Town Park in Glenrock. THE BAGS & MEN OF HOPE sponsored by Mary Ann Pyatt- MICHE Bag - "Two Bags & a Purse" is off and running and we feel that cancer does not only affect the person with cancer but everyone involved from family, friends, doctors,& nurses.
We also have for a donation of $1.00 or 6 for $5.00 donation
in the flurry of activity that we deal with in terms of the number rigs that are drilling and the number of permits coming in,” Doll says. “Converse County is ahead of all the other eastern counties in terms of that kind of activity, primarily because it’s a known oil providence and people are exploiting existing
in Converse County,” he says. “Niobrara, Goshen, Platte and Laramie Counties haven’t had the exposure to that activity in many years. Everything drilled down there now is wildcat, exploratory type of wells.
tickled to see it,” Doll says. “I would expect that we’ll soon be able to start tracking the economic impact with the sales and use tax increases that should accompany this activity.”
“This has been happening under our noses and most of the
March 30 Set Aside As Wyoming Veterans Welcome Home Day
by bill.mccarthy
CHEYENNE – Gov. Matt Mead signed the proclamation Thursday to set aside March 30 to thank Korean War, Vietnam War and other veterans who were not properly welcomed home following their military service.
The proclamation is part of legislation passed by the Wyoming Legislature this year. It designates March 30 of each year as the Wyoming Veterans Welcome Home Day. Mead will participate in community Welcome Home events
on March 30 in Cheyenne, Casper and Cody. Those ceremonies will include a welcome home line that mirrors what is done today when soldiers come home. The veterans will walk through a line and be thanked for their service by state leaders.
Sunday March 27, 2011
“Wyoming’s soda ash industry has begun to rebound, but the economy is still weak. Now is not the time to saddle Wyoming companies with increased taxes. We simply cannot afford to lose any of these good-paying jobs in Sweetwater County communities. That’s why I introduced H.R. 1192, which provides the certainty the soda ash industry needs to create jobs. It also helps to ensure a reliable stream of revenue for the state of Wyoming and the U.S. Treasury. H.R. 1192 will help strengthen jobs and economic vitality in Wyoming and ensure our state remains a world leader in soda ash production.” Background: The six percent royalty on soda ash was imposed in 1995. In
2006, the serving Wyoming delegation worked to reduce the rate to two percent, a mandate that expires in October of 2011.
More than 90% of U.S. soda ash production occurs in Sweetwater County.
The Green River Basin in Sweetwater County contains the world’s largest natural trona deposit. Four companies in Wyoming produce over 11 million tons of soda ash a year and employ more than 3,000 people. Until recently, Wyoming was the leader in soda ash production. Last year, America’s soda ash industry contributed more than one billion dollars to the U.S. balance of trade. By contrast, soda ash produced in China is a synthetic material and is produced more cheaply due to lower production costs.
Converse County Relay For Life Holds THE BAGS AND MEN OF HOPE
By supporting and donating to this worthy cause we can find a cure for cancer. The Bags & Men of HOPE have awareness rings for $1.00, fabric bangle bracelets for $2.00 and silicone bracelets for $2.00.
Overlooking the newest road and rig pad construction site in Converse County, Brian Harmon (pictured above) Construction Supervisor on the Hwy 95 and Hwy 93 Smith Ranch sites is a 13 year veteran of Magna Energy Services. Harmon states that construction of the roadways and pads will take approximately 7-10 days from start to finish, after which point the drilling rig will be moved onto the 375’x375’ gravel pad. “We utilize and move approximately five acres of surface area to construct the gravel pad that the rig will sit on. I’ve talked to many ranchers who’ve been very good to us in regards to accesing their land [during this construction phase].” stated Harmon. “This is going to be good for everybody. The local economy is really begining to experience that the boom is starting.” Photo © Amanda Smith
continue to distort the international trade of soda ash, have become an especially difficult hurdle in Wyoming’s ability to compete in the industry.
for a chance to win a MICHE MINI Bag with a HOPE shell that is made just for Cancer each year by MICHE. Along with the Mini Hope purse you will receive four different sizes of color coordinating accordion photo albums. You will probably being seeing team members smiling faces out and about in Glenrock and Douglas promoting these and we hope and ask that you reach into your heart and donate to this wonderful cause. Coming up in April or May we will be having some restaurants sharing a meal and donating a percentage of that meal for the cause - we hope
when announced that you will come out and have a MEAL with us. We also want to invite each and everyone if you are not on a Relay For Life Team to think about getting a team together and walking and joining in the day of fun. Come out to the park and cheer all the teams on and see all the great things that will be taking place, entertainment, booths..lot of surprises.
"Cancer is like a cloud that blocks the sunshine for all of those affected by the disease and we ask that you please pray for SUNSHINE" For more info or donations to The BAGS & MEN OF HOPE contact Mary Ann at 277-1479.
Conservation District Corner A new montly column from The Converse County Conservation District National Ag Day was celebrated on Tuesday, March 15th. This is the time of year when producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies and countless others across America gather to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by American agriculture. Agriculture provides almost everything we eat, use and wear on a daily basis, and is increasingly contributing to fuel and other bio-products. Each year, members of the agricultural industry gather together to promote American agriculture. This effort helps educate millions of consumers each year. A few generations ago, most Americans were directly involved in – or had relatives or friends involved in – agricultural related endeavors. Today, that is no longer the case. As our area becomes more urbanized, knowledge
about Wyoming agriculture and natural resources becomes even more important. Likewise, as the world population soars, there is an even greater demand for food, fiber and renewable resources that the United States produces. The Agriculture Council of America, organizers of National Ag Day, believes that every American should understand how food, fiber and renewable resource products are produced and should value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy. They should appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant and affordable products. National Ag Day focuses on educating Americans about the industry, so they may also acknowledge and consider career opportunities in the agriculture, food, fiber and renewable resource industry.
The Converse County Conservation District is proud to have participated in this educational outreach last Tuesday, as well as every day of the year.
The District sponsors many adult education workshops throughout the year and we have a youth education outreach program that reaches several youth throughout Converse County every month.
If you have a natural resource topic that you would like to learn more about, or if you would like us to come and present an education program to your group, please contact us (307) 358-3050 extension 4. Agriculture is AMAZING!
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H
ERDER
SPORTS & EVENTS
by Gina Kidneigh At 5:00 a.m., on March 17, twelve students departed for the State Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Conference in Cheyenne, Wyoming. These energetic and motivated students, accompanied by their advisor, Mrs. Gina Kidneigh, and chaperone, Mr. Justin Kidneigh, competed and represented their
On the boys side, Herder Tyler Kelley was named to the AllConference team and Matt Morgan received Honorable Mention. The players received special recognition at the annual basketball awards program at Glenrock High School last Tuesday evening.
#39 - The Glenrock Bird thinks you make a great logo for the 2010/11 school season! Keep up the good work! And that goes for all sports and events participants!
GHS, GMS, GRANT
-The Bird
FBLA PERFORMS WITH PRIDE! school with pride! The State FBLA Conference had recordbreaking attendance this year, with over 550 members participating in the three-day event full of competitions, workshops, and top-notch speakers. To further add to the excitement, three of these students brought home first place awards! Kara Lutz took first place in the Cli-
Two Herder Roundballers Make All-Conference, One All-State GLENROCK—Lady Herder basketball player Shelby Stewart, a four-year stalwart for the team, was named both All-Conference and All-State. Stewart has accepted a scholarship offer to play basketball for Casper College.
GLENROCK ROCKS!
Those receiving letters for the Herders: Tyler Kelley; Derrick Rowe; Matt Morgan; Tate Johnston; Taylor Tresch; Josh Williams; DC Hall; Ryan Boner; Colter Hoskinson; Tanner Kelley; Alexis Kidneigh—Mgr.; and Alecia Lingren—Mgr. Lady Herders earning letters were: Shelby Stewart; Becky Downs; Becky Cotton; Shayla Wickett; Kaylynn Kindt; Bailey Dahlke; Meghan Boner; Shannon Van Antwerp; Breanna Farley; Shantel Stellpflug; and Liz Halverson.
ent Service event, a performance event where a competitor deals with a tough customer service in an impromptu role-play. Kara was provided with only a few facts about the company she was representing and ten short minutes to study them before going before the judges, who represented the disgruntled customer. Ryan Boner took first place in the Personal Finance objective event, showing a commanding knowledge of personal finance, economic and ethical concepts on a grueling 100 question, 60 minute test! Ryan came out of that test claiming, “I can’t believe how hard that test was!” Apparently it wasn’t too hard for Ryan! Finally, Alexis Kidneigh took first place for her Partnership with Business project. This project is a challenge because Alexis had to submit a written report several weeks before competition and then be prepared for a 7 minute presentation of the report to a panel of judges. The presentation, about an activity that our club has participated in, is followed by a 3 minute question and answer session with the judges. All students performed and behaved admirably, going the extra mile to support and assist Alexis Kidneigh in her quest for a position on the State FBLA Officer
Sunday March 27, 2011
Glenrock FBLA Members at SLC – Front row: Ryan Boner, Kara Lutz, Whisper Summers, Jordan McClintick; Middle row: Chris Daniels, Kailee Koltiska, Wayne Wolcott, Wyatt Summers, Houston Pfander, Gina Kidneigh; Back row: Alexis Kidneigh, Cassidy Warren, Amanda McGrady. Photo courtesy Gina Kidneigh. Team! Alexis showed poise, character and personality that impressed many students and adults in attendance at this year’s conference. Never ceasing to demonstrate her intent to be a candidate focused on serving the members of FBLA, she exemplified her campaign message “Any Way You Want It,” by focusing on her constituents and their
desires for the state organization. Alexis was voted in as the 2011-2012 State Reporter and Historian by her fellow FBLA members! She is really excited to start on her new duties. Kara, Ryan, and Alexis have all qualified to attend and compete at the National FBLA Conference this summer in Orlando,
FL. Alexis will attend and perform duties related to her position as a state officer as well as a competitor in her winning event, Ryan and Kara will compete in their winning events, and all will have an abundance of opportunities to participate in a variety of workshops and general sessions with amazing national speakers.
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throw at you and you never know, you may have to backtrack; so to look is the thing to do.
COWBOY CORNER Cowboy Poet Columnist TJ Casey
A LANDMARK A rock, a bluff, an old snag tree; in the mountains, a clearing or park.
TJ Casey is a singer/songwriter, storyteller, composer and entertainer. He was raised up on ranches in Wyoming and Montana and now teaches the "Code of the West" and poetry to students all across America. Check him out at: www.tjcasey.net.
You should always look back to see where you been and find ya a good landmark. You never know from day to day, what ma nature might
Folks have got lost from watching the trail; then getting caught in a fog. If this happens, the best you can do; is sit down and wait on a log. Now, if you feel that you’re plumb lost and don’t know what to do, yet still; then find ya a runnin’ spring or creek
and follow the water, down hill. Some of the best navigators and travelers always found or made a mark; a monument high on a mountain top or a light house seen in the dark. So always watch your back trail and watch where you have been. If you’ve ever been lost sometime before; you might never get lost again.
THE NIGHT HAWK I’m Just Sayin.... Columnist - Susan R. Stoltz Susan is owner/editor of Women Out West Magazine, featured speaker at writers conferences nationwide including Women Writing the West, Ozark Creative Writers and Writing the Rockies. As a freelance writer Susan has been featured in Open Range Magazine, Cactus Creek Daily and on the website of the National Association of Baby Boomers. Photo © Amanda Smith
I’m Just Sayin... Libya – Rooting For The Underdog May Have Dire Consequences
Am I the only person who thinks the attack on Libya is a mistake of monumental proportions? Am I the only person who thinks a weak, naïve, inexperienced president has been drawn into a war that is clearly not ours to fight?
We do not get our oil from Libya. The two countries that siphon the oil reserves of Libya are France and Britain. It’s my opinion that France has manipulated a befuddled president into a primary first strike on a sovereign nation for it’s own interests entirely. And wait, wasn’t it France who adamantly opposed the attack the US made on Iraq? And now the president wants out. We started a war with no plan, no exit stragegy and BO is willing to have our American troops ordered into battle by a foreign committe. Does anybody else think this is an extravagant folly?
Do I agree with Qaddafi’s policies? No. Do I think his people have the right to rebel? Yes. Do I think it’s our place to interfere? No. In the relative scheme of things in the Middle East Qaddafi has been mild in comparison to Castro – who kills more dissidents than Qaddafi, or Chavez who seizes the wealth of his citizens in his fantasy of omnipotence. Qaddafi may rule with an iron fist but he hasn’t been noted for the violence that the leaders of Iran and Iraq have. He’s a tyrant for sure – but the aforementioned leaders have been far worse.
And what is this sanctimonious crap about a nation attacking it’s own? Isn’t that what we did in America in our own civil war? What about the British with Northern Ireland? How about French Algeria? Come on America – time to fess up. Violence against revolutionaries is commonplace to recognized sovereigns.
And where is the outrage of the NY Times about this disastrous ‘war of choice?’ What about Maureen Dowd? She had nothing but constant criticism of Bush’s distractions in times of peril? Why hasn’t she made a peep about BO’s golf games and NCAA playoff picks? Please – the hypocrisy is tantamount to lunacy.
THE BIRD BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Sunday March 27, 2011
That we know absolutely nothing about the people rebelling is cause for concern. What is to replace Qaddafi? There are no roots of liberty in Libya; we have no reason to believe the rebels are not a greater threat than the dictator they oppose. My guess is that the cry of outrage made by those who go off willy-nilly to root for the underdog better beware. This underdog may have a bite that we’ll be regretting far into the future. I’m just sayin…..
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POLICE BEAT
Traffic stop, verbal warning issued for speed. X 2 Suspicious activity reported. Barking dog complaint. Rolling Hills patrol completed. X2 Traffic stop, warning for no visible registration. Traffic, verbal warning for speed. E-911 medical, one transported to Casper.
another pump instead. Gas was pumped and paid for. VIN inspection completed X 2 Rolling Hills Patrol completed X3 Traffic stop, citation issued for speed Fingerprints taken, unsure if they were returned Harassment, report taken. Comm Tech performed a notary Traffic stop, verbal warning issued for brake light. Sexual Assault reported. At this time it is not clear whether the assault happened in Glenrock or elsewhere. The assault is under investigation. Gas drive off. Female subject pumped gas, purchased items at the counter and reportedly forgot to also pay for gas. She returned to the station and paid for her gas. Barking dog complaint Officer delivered a message for a Montana Agency.
Sunday 3-20-11
Wednesday 3-23-11
Gunshots reported, officer responded. Comm Tech performed notary. X2 Rolling Hills patrol completed. X2 Suspicious person, officer spoke with suspect. Traffic stop, written warning for speed. X 2 Traffic stop, warning for speed. X2 OAA, officer assisted another agency.
Stalking, report taken. OAA - officer complied. Rolling Hills patrol completed. X3 Missing person, person returned home. Range key issued. Traffic stop, verbal warning for brake lights. Intrusion alarm.
Friday 3-18-11
Barking dog complaint, officer responded. Barking dog, door hanger left. Comm Tech performed notary. VIN inspection completed. Range key issued. Rolling Hills patrol completed. X3 Extra patrol requested. Officer provided a civil standby. Saturday 3-19-11
Monday 3-21-11 E-911 medical, one transported to Casper. Comm Tech performed notary. Rolling Hills patrol completed. X3 Range key issued. Trespass, message left for subject. Phone harassment reported, officer took report. Tuesday 3-22-11 Gas drive off. This was not a theft, the subject pre-paid on one pump but decided to use
Thursday 3-24-11 Traffic accident, officer responded. Medical, ambulance negative transport. OAA, officer complied. Rolling Hills patrol completed. X2 Barking dog, door hanger left. Comm Tech performed notary. X2 Message delivered. Traffic stop, verbal warning for brake light. Unwanted subject removed from residence. Officer performed a VIN inspection. Injured rabbit reported. Possible child abuse reported.
GLENROCK LIBRARY NEWS Labas! Hello in Lithuanian from the library! Visit our Mango Foreign Language database on line. Find out how to get connected.
BIRD WORD SEARCH
National Library Week is just around the corner. It is April 10-16. The library has some extra special events to take place throughout the week. One involves our very own school band director, Mr. Jeremy Huck. Do you know he is a man of many talents? Who knew he was also a children’s author? He will have a book signing to debut his book called, Charlie the Christmas Caterpillar. More information will be in our next article to let you know what other events we have in store for National Library Week. What’s hot in our adult titles? The top 10 are being displayed. Among them are authors such as, James Patterson, Diana Palmer, and Alexander McCall Smith. From murder mysteries to humor, we have it all! If by chance we don’t, we can get it for you! Just ask. For Read Me A Story: March 26– April 2: Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson. Take a few minutes to brighten your day by picking up the phone and dialing 436-2353 to listen to a great story! We’re on the web athttp:wyldweb.state.wy.us/ glen. Our phone number is 4362573. Fax number is 436-8525. We’re on Facebook. Be sure to check us out, just search for Glenrock Library. Hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: 10:00 to 5:00. Tuesday and Thursday: 10:00 to 8:00. Saturday: 10:00 to 1:00. Closed Sundays.
Sunday March 27, 2011
Glenrock Wyoming Herders DeerCreek Purple White OregonTrail
Pride Converse Rural Hometown Family Community Horses
Cattle Ranches Football Basketball Volleyball Cowboy Livestock
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE!!! call to add your business!
307-298-5107 or email: info@theglenrockbird.com
The Glenrock Bird
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WANTE D
Billy The Kid
Black Bart
Sunday March 27, 2011
Butch Cassidy
Wanted in Glenrock: Any information leading to the capture of this “fearful foursome” locally known as ... “The Sale Barn Gang”
and
The Sundance Kid... Booking Photo © Amanda Smith
It’s the Easter Bunny! ** Calling All Kids ** Hop over to the RH town park on Saturday, April 23rd at 10am for an Easter Egg Hunt !!!
Lots of Treasures! 2 & under 3 & 4 year olds 5 & 6 year olds 7 & 8 year olds 9 & 10 year olds
Be sure to bring a basket to put your goodies in!
Pictures with the Easter Bunny!
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