Sunday, December 20, 2009
50¢
THE BIRD AT A GLANCE TOP OF THE NEWS
DAVE JOHNSON UWUA LOCAL 127 MEMBERS VOTE ON CONTRACT Harold Giberson, President of Local 127 Utility Workers Union of America, is concerned about the ongoing well-being of Local 127 members - including those employed at the Dave Johnston power plant in Glenrock.
See Story Page 7
Carrying The Right News... To The Right Places Glenrock’s Sunday Morning Hometown Local News Newspaper
Volume #3: Issue 26
DAVE JOHNSON UWUA LOCAL 127 MEMBERS VOTE ON CONTRACT
GLENROCK'S PONY EXPRESS RIDES AGAIN! See Story Page 9
HERDER WRESTLERS PUT FORTH INCREDIBLE EFFORTS TO ACHIEVE GOALS
By Mark Dosa
Coach Cory Yingling's face is that of a man at peace with himself. A subtle smile resides there, the product of honest, hard work meted out every day as educator and coach.
LADY HERDERS EXCEL IN HERDER CLASSIC
The Lady Herders' basketball team, under the direction of head coach Tony Lehner and assistant coaches Tara Chandler and Joe Dona, put on an impressive display at the recent Herder Classic tournament. The tournament took place here in Glenrock on December 11 and 12.
"This week," Giberson states, "Membership will be voting to accept or reject the contract proposal offered by PacifiCorp Energy. Votes will be counted this Saturday (December 19) by 1:00 p.m. in Rock Springs. We'll know the results then."
NEWS FROM THE NEST - 6 LUMMIS: SECOND STIMULUS PROVES FIRST ONE FAILED
WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., said that passage of a second stimulus bill proves that the widely touted first stimulus plan failed. Lummis voted against the $150 billion so-called “Jobs for Main Street Act.”
Mr. Giberson believes there are 3 major provisions of the PacifiCorp proposal that makes it untenable to Local 127 members. During a telephone conversation on Wednesday, Giberson elaborated on these provisions.
CONVERSE COUNTY & BEYOND - 7 BIG TRUCK, BIG ROCK - COMMUNITY AWARENESS
When Don Kuhn of Rolling Hills was on his way to Casper one morning, he thought about the other motorists on the road…he thought about the nice weather occurring after so many days of bad…but what he didn't think about was how merely driving by a large truck, which was hauling rock, could ruin his day.
"PacifiCorp wants to change the pension from Defined Benefit to Defined Contribution." When asked how this would affect Local 127 members, Giberson provided an example.
Tune in to the Glenrock Sunday Morning Broadcast and the Bird Public Radio at www.theglenrockbird.com
"The bottom line is that by making a change to Defined Contribution, less money will be seen by members after they retire. Using me as an example, the reduction in monthly retirement income I would see switching to a Defined Contribution plan would be $170.00 every month. If I draw a pension for 20 years, that's a substantial sum."(Assuming Mr. Giberson's figures are accurate, the difference would be $40,800.00 over a 20 year period.)
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and so much more in your Sunday morning newspaper The Glenrock Bird.
www.theglenrockbird.com HAVE A HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS!! Glenrock, Wyoming Pony Express Rider Justin Kapp passes by The Bixby Ranch just outside of Glenrock during his one mile leg of the Pony Express Christmas Card Delivery. Pony Express Riders from Glenrock and Douglas recreated a Pony Express ride, riding one mile each and making a mailbag exchange to the next rider, and delivering over 800 pieces of mail between the Glenrock and Douglas riders. Photo © Amanda Smith
NO JOINT DISPATCH FOR CONVERSE COUNTY By staff reporter, Jessica Smith
Several months ago, The Glenrock Bird reported that the Converse County Commissioners were looking into a proposal to create a Joint Dispatch Program for the area. The committee, headed by Commissioner Mike Colling, was researching the project to determine if it would be a feasible change. After reviewing the possibilities, the committee has decided that a Joint Dispatch Center in Converse County would in
HOLIDAY VOCAL CONCERT WOWS CROWD
On Tuesday, December 15th, Glenrock's Middle School and High School came together to perform at the annual Holiday Vocal Concert.
HERDER SPORT & EVENTS - 3
Harold Giberson, President of Local 127 Utility Workers Union of America, is concerned about the ongoing well-being of Local 127 members - including those employed at the Dave Johnston power plant in Glenrock.
Another point of contention has to do with medical premiums, and Giberson's assertion that PacifiCorp desires to reduce the amount it pays to defray medical premiums.
COMMUNITY - 2
fact, not be feasible. Right now in Converse County there are three dispatch centers--Glenrock, Douglas, and the County, and each one costs money to operate and equip. The new dispatch center would probably have been put in Douglas and would have been the central dispatch for Glenrock and Douglas police, Glenrock and Douglas fire departments, as well as Glenrock and Douglas Emergency Medical Services and
Community............................... Page 2 The Bird Herd.......................... Page 3 Business Directory.................. Page 4 Public Notices......................... Page 5 Real Estate............................... Page 5 Bird Classifieds........................ Page 6 Nes From The Nest.................. Page 6 County & Beyond.................... Page 7 Weather Vane........................... Page 8 Police Beat............................... Page 8
Ambulance. The hope of the Commissioners was to save the taxpayers some money by combining the dispatches. Commissioner Mike Colling stated at the time, “…if it doesn’t save any money, there’s no sense in doing it.” After a lengthy review of the costs involved in combining all three dispatch centers, the group has come to the conclusion that there would be no financial gain in the joining of the dis-
Sunday, December 20th Partly cloudy high 38 low 21
Weathervane – 8
patches. A final report on the consideration stated that the feasibility of a joint center in Douglas is good, with Glenrock possibly coming on board at a later time. Due to the fact that the cost of only two fulltime positions would be saved compared with the cost of construction of a new facility, the center is not slated to happen at this time. There will be a written report available for the perusal by all entities at the next Joint Powers meeting.
ONLY 5 DAYS TILL
CHRISTMAS!
Have a holly, jolly Christmas; It's the best time of the year I don't know if there'll be snow but have a cup of cheer Have a holly, jolly Christmas; And when you walk down the street Say Hello to friends you know and everyone you meet Oh ho the mistletoe hung where you can see; Somebody waits for you; Kiss her once for me Have a holly jolly Christmas and in case you didn't hear Oh by golly have a holly jolly Christmas this year -Johnny Marks and Burl Ives
There’s more on the Net For around the clock updates on Breaking News and High School Sports
WWW.GLENROCKBIRD.COM
Shop Your Local Grocer Glenrock Superfoods Savings Inside The Glenrock Bird
HOLIDAY VOCAL CONCERT WOWS CROWD By Jessica Smith - Staff Reporter
GLENROCK BOWL SHOWS BENEVOLENT SIDE By Jessica Smith - Staff Reporter
In last week's Glenrock Bird, an article appeared regarding the fourth annual Frank Lyons 777 bowling tournament, which was held on Saturday, December 5th and Sunday, December 6th, at Glenrock Bowl. Organized and run by four ladies of the Association, the tournament was a big success. Deana McGrady, Pat Yates, Stephanie Parkinson, and Carla Bloem were, according to Gary Eckhardt, owner of Glenrock Bowl, "Four people who did most of the leg work." What wasn't present in last week's article was the fact that not only was the tournament a success, but it also was the kick-off to something far more important. Gayle Hoyer, who recently passed from cancer, is the inspiration behind a new fundraiser going on at the bowling alley. Eckhardt explains, "They're starting a scholarship for her son, Kyle, who is 14 years old...we started this weekend raising money for that fund. We are doing it every night of the league (up until Christmas break)." How the group raises money is through a 50/50 raffle--people can buy raffle tickets for a certain price and then when a winner is drawn, they get 50% of the total money taken in. The other 50% will go into the scholarship fun for Kyle. "These people open up their billfolds and their hearts to this...," Eckhardt said, "This boy will hopefully benefit from some of the people's contributions...whether he goes to college or not, he'll have some money set aside." Eckhardt is quick to point out that the fundraising is a group effort and gives most of the credit to the bowlers of whom he said, "Without them, I'm nothing." The men and women who organized the Frank Lyons 777 tournament would also like to add a big "Thank You" to their sponsors for the tournament: Glenrock Bowl, Northern Lights Energy Co's, Inc., Classic Cafe and Pizza, Red's Speedy Lube and Tires, Deer Creek Lounge, NAPA Auto Parts of Glenrock, The Glenrock Bird, Shoreliner Lounge, Four Aces, Outlaw Drilling, Hilltop National Bank, DHS Drilling, Coleman Electrical Services, and DXP.
STEINBERG’S CELEBRATE 60TH They met at the Rapid City Laundry and Dry Cleaners where they were both employed, and in the year of the great blizzard Wayne Andrew Steinberg and Carolyn Marie Arends were married in Rapid City, South Dakota on December 17, 1949. A short two weeks later they made their way to Wyoming in a 1936 two-door Ford, stopping every 35 miles or so to dry the distributor cap. The weather that New Year's Day was frightful and mimicked the January before, but with traveler helping traveler they arrived safely in Casper where jobs were plentiful. Wayne says, "Just driving across the border into Wyoming tripled my wages." So, with his boiler experience he went to work for Reiney's Laundry. In 1953 they paid cash for a home and purchased the laundry, renaming it Economy Laundry and Dry Cleaning. In their years of business the couple used a little ingenuity, some business sense and a lot of hard work to capture all the coverall business in town and provided clean linen service to 18 motels. During those years their two daughters were born, Patricia Marie and Jane Etta. Wayne has always been thankful to Carolyn for blessing him with two miracles. In January of 1962 Wayne went to work for Pacific Power at the Dave Johnston power plant. The couple moved to Glenrock in 1963 and purchased the home they remain in today. Never one to let any grass grow under their feet, they purchased mountain land and literally built two cabins with their own hands and the sweat of their brow. This secluded place has been the hub of many happy family gatherings through the years. Wayne retired from Pacific Power in April of 1989. The couple has spent their retirement years fishing, hunting, traveling, card parties, etc. They don't understand how they had time to work as their social calendar keeps them busy these days. As they celebrate their 60 years together one has to ask, "What makes a marriage last so many years?" The couple has many thoughts on that subject including: always working as a team, keeping each other's best interests at heart, knowing how to share (they both came from very large families) and no matter what, always kissing each other goodnight!
The High School Concert Chorale jazzes their way through some slightly altered Christmas favorites. Photo © Jessica Smith
On Tuesday, December 15th, Glenrock's Middle School and High School came together to perform at the annual Holiday Vocal Concert. Held in the Middle School auditorium and directed by Ms. Pam Lucey, the concert was well attended, and another testament to the abilities of our students and their instructors. Opening with the 7th and 8th Grade Choirs the evening went into full Christmas swing as the group performed selections such as 'Over the River and Through the Woods' and 'Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!'. There was then a slight pause as Jacqueline Bunce (of the High School's New Attitude Choir) sang a lovely solo version of 'Oh, Holy Night'. That beautiful song was followed up by the GHS Concert
Chorale who, wearing their purple and gray robes, got the crowd going again with selections such as 'Make a Joyful Noise' and 'Baby, It's Cold Outside'-accompanied in one selection by The Glenrock Bell Choir. The New Attitude Choir was next before the two High School groups joined forces to bring the evening to a close with a medley The New Attitude Choir, under the direction of Pam Lucey, titled 'Simply Christmas'. shows off their amazing pipes during Tuesday's concert. Once again, Glenrock's school choirs amazed with their abilities showcased due in no small part to their Vocal Director, Ms. Lucey. The evening was lively and fun and a good time was had by all who attended. "I was very pleased with the concert…with the crowd that showed up and their response to the music," Lucey said, "I thought all the groups really stepped
Photo © Jessica Smith
up and entertained 100%. I was excited about the variety of music that everybody did and the Bell Choir was exceptional-it was fun to perform with them!" If you missed this concert (and you missed a good one), make sure you keep your Spring calendar clear for that is when the next
Glenrock's 7th and 8th Grade Choir sing favorite hristmas tunes. Photo © Jessica Smith
MIDDLE SCHOOL HOLDS CAREER DAY By Jessica Smith - Staff Reporter
On November 20th, Glenrock Intermediate Middle School held its annual Career Day for the Eighth Grade students. Twenty people spanning eleven different careers were on hand to explain their jobs, and what it is like to work in their field. Louis Metz, GIMS Counselor, stated of the event, "Career Day is a very important part of the eighth grade curriculum. This day is the beginning of a career decision process that will assist GIMS students in choosing their
future careers." From the National Guard to the Wyoming Trucking Association and Meteorologist to Professional Baseball, the students were exposed to career options across many diverse fields. The National Guard Sgt. Marty Franks Students left to right: Aiden 'sessions' were held in Madsen, Ian Albaugh, Chris Daniels, Nathan Nzueni, Austin different areas of the Lloyd Photo by Louis Metz Middle School, and interested students attended a short workshop career presenter discussed seed' with the students to that introduced them to a their personal experiences hopefully get them to think particular field. As each in their field, it was hoped about where they'd like that this would help 'plant a their career path to start heading. Mr. Metz was pleased with the turnout and the result of Career Day and was grateful to all the presenters for giving time out of their busy schedule to speak with the students. "The importance of the presence of these presenters and the sharing of their personal experiences are beyond measure for our eighth grade class," he said.
Glenrock EMT Harold Bean Students left to right: Austin Hall, Alex Lloyd, Sandy Hiser, Ashley Eldred. Photo by Louis Metz
Sunday, December 20, 2009
performance of choral abilities is set to be scheduled. Stay posted to the Glenrock Bird for dates as they become available.
The Glenrock Bird
For more information regarding Career Day, or to become a presenter for next year, call Louis Metz at Glenrock Intermediate Middle School - 4369258.
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Glenrock Rocks!
The Glenrock Bird is proud of Glenrock’s Midget Football Team! In fact, so much, that we chose #40 as our new Herder Sports & Events Logo for the 09/10 Herder School Year.
HERDER BASKETBALL: ATHLETES, COACHES BRING SKILLS AND VALUABLE INTANGIBLES Glenrock Bird Sports Reporter Bill Keesee
To a casual observer, the 100 mile trip to the Coal Miners' Classic Tournament in Wright on December 11 and 12 may appear to have been an exercise in disappointment. However, casual observation quite often fails to yield a valid understanding of what's truly transpired. The Herder Boys played three games during the course of the tournament, falling to Big Horn 25 to 47, losing to Greybull 37 to 61, and succumbing to Southeast 44 to 65. While losing is never cause for celebration, defeat provides information. Valuable information. Coach Justin Kidneigh understands this, and uses knowledge
gleaned from these games to help his team understand how and why events played out as they did, and what can be done to grow and improve. The Herder Boys are a talented team, a hard working team. Collectively, they are also a young team. "We have a lot of young kids who are learning," Kidneigh revealed. "But no team has better skills, we're just not connecting on offense. We've got good athleticism." More importantly, Kidneigh is savvy enough to understand the importance of a critical intangible - character. "This is a great group of kids." ( A very hard work-
ing, dedicated, and selfless group revealed itself during an open practice.) "We're still in the early weeks though. We're finding our identity as a team. We're discovering our chemistry." Kidneigh is no stranger to hard work. A social studies instructor at Kelly Walsh in Casper, he makes the daily trek to Glenrock to work with the Herder lads, often leaving the gym well after the sun has set. Fourteen hour days are not uncommon.
walking compilation of qualities essential in a coach for a program to succeed. The well orchestrated practice sees Kidneigh in the thick of things, improvising when needed, pausing for instruction when required, providing mini-lessons when appropriate.
Kidneigh's energy and enthusiasm belies whatever fatigue his body may be
The team responds to his hard work and competence, and a reciprocation of sorts can be seen. Respect is obvious, yet the environment remains upbeat and positive. There are no long faces here. These athletes are in the moment, enjoying the process.
experiencing. During practice, he is involved, animated, aware. Kidneigh is a
As with many sports here at Glenrock High, the trickle down affect is evident.
Coach works hard, athlete works hard. Coach is positive and confident, and so are his charges. No dynasty is created overnight, and the Herder Boys have a tough road ahead before they can consider themselves to be a dominant force to be reckoned with. But with Kigneigh at the helm and his team buying into his philosophy and sytem, the sky's the limit. Attend some games while the team is still finding its chemistry, its identity. It might make interesting conversation down the road you never know when another Herder dynasty suddenly becomes the talk of the town.
LADY HERDERS EXCEL IN HERDER CLASSIC The Lady Herders' basketball team, under the direction of head coach Tony Lehner and assistant coaches Tara Chandler and Joe Dona, put on an impressive display at the recent Herder Classic tournament. The tournament took place here in Glenrock on December 11 and 12.
'Shayla Wickett goes for the shot while two Kaycee defenders attempt to prevent the score' - Photo courtesy Mary Kay Kindt
The first opponent was a tough Southeast team whose coach has collected 3 state titles. Southeast played very solid defensively and committed very few errors during the course of the game. While a tough match, the Lady Herders were ultimately victorious, winning by one point, 34 to 33. The Herders shot 33 percent from three point land, 41 percent when in two point range, and 78 percent from the free throw line, while Southeast shot 0 percent, 30 percent, and 65 percent respectively. Southeast picked up 1 more rebound than the Herders, while Glenrock dominated in blocked shots, 17 to 11. Shelby Stewart led all scorers with 9 points. The Herders remained vic-
torious against Greybull, dominating the game 58 to 22. Glenrock made 17 percent of three point shots, 49 percent when in two point range, and averaged 73 percent from the free throw line. Greybull's numbers were 0 percent, 18 ½ percent, and 50 percent respectively. Glenrock out rebounded their opponent 26 to 20, while Shelby Stewart and Shayla Wickett led the team with 11 points each. Shayne Hoyt also scored in double digits with a point total of 10. Next up for the Herders was Kaycee, who was dispatched with the final score reading 58 to 31 in favor of Glenrock. The Lady Herders shot an outstanding 45 percent from three point land and 48 percent when in two point range, while achieving 69 percent from the free throw line. Kaycee managed 0 percent, 34 percent, and 29 percent respectively. Glenrock dominated the boards, out rebounding Kaycee 32 to 15. Shelby Stewart led in scoring with 14 points, closely followed by Shayne Hoyt with 13.
The lone tournament loss occurred to Big Horn, a small school with a big heart. Big Horn came out on top 49 to 32. Coach Tara Chandler explained that "Big Horn is a school very deep with tradition and talent and are two time defending state champions. They are a smaller school than Glenrock (Big Horn is 2A, Glenrock 3A)." The match against Big Horn saw the Lady Herders make 29 percent of their three point attempts, 22 percent of their two point attempts, and 67 percent from the free throw line. Big Horn shot 23 percent, 35 percent, and 63 percent respectively. Rebounds were close, with Big Horn edging Glenrock 29 to 27. Shelby Stewart led Glenrock with 12 points. The Lady Herders have a busy week leading up to Christmas, playing Wheatland on December 17, Burns on December 18, and Thermopolis on Saturday, December 19. These are all away games.
HERDER WRESTLERS PUT FORTH INCREDIBLE EFFORTS TO ACHIEVE GOALS By Jessica Smith
Coach Cory Yingling's face is that of a man at peace with himself. A subtle smile resides there, the product of honest, hard work meted out every day as educator and coach. After a day filled with teaching students the finer points of drafting and welding, Yingling spends the balance of the afternoon and early evening in the pursuit of wrestling excellence. A former wrestler with a profound love of the sport, he brings a joy and exuberance to the gym that's infectious. His athletes sense it, appreciate it, are enamored with it. The gym's a cool place to be. Smiles abound. Kid's are working hard, real hard. Some are on the verge of getting sick to their stomach. No one's complaining though. Everyone's pursuing excellence here. What's a queasy stomach when the knowledge that the effort makes you stronger, faster, tougher - flat out better? A comment is made to the coach that the workout seems intense. A quizzical look crosses his face. "We're warming up," Yingling explains. We'll be getting to deep cardio in a bit. That's
where the athlete develops the ability to perform at an all out level for continuous minutes at a time while dealing with extreme fatigue." This is a warrior's sport, and Yingling's charges seem up to the challenge. Extreme effort contort faces and elicit grunts and groans. Instruction is interlaced with action on the mat to improve skills and give athletes a brief respite from the taxing physical endeavors they engage in. Yingling knows when to push and when to hold back. There's a fine line between overtraining and not pushing hard enough. Yingling's been doing this long enough to see that line, and he heeds its presence. His athlete's emerge from the workout exhausted, but ready for tomorrow. "We mix things up," Yingling explains. "The mind will go long before the body. Burnout is mostly psychological. If I can keep things interesting, the kids won't even realize how hard they're working." The Triangular meet held on Thursday, December 10 delivered mixed results. 14 athletes attended, and 11 competed in a total of 12
Sunday, December 20, 2009
matches. The final tally revealed 4 wins and 8 losses. Yingling was pragmatically philosophical about the meet. "We had better results at the prior tournament, but that's not to say this tournament wasn't a great learning experience. This is a young team and we performed admirably. We discovered areas we need to work on. We learned not to become complacent after success, and that is a valuable lesson. This is a great group of hard working kids. Newcastle (the only team Glenrock competed against on the December 10; Torrington was a no show) has really come on strong in the last 2 years. I'd say we are where they were about 2 years ago."
140 pounds: J D Pittsley 145 pounds: Cody Lownsberry 160 pounds: Cole Nelson 189 pounds: Troy Pinkerton, Taylor Yingling Heavyweight: Cheyne Keasler
On December 10, athletes Blakeley, Widiker, Pittsley, and Pinkerton emerged with victories. Coach Yingling's warriors include the following athletes: 103 pounds: Cody Grenseman 119 pounds: Branden Pittsley, Lane Blakeley 125 pounds: Whisper Summers, Raider Nelson 130 pounds: Tyler Berge, Shannon Mares 135 pounds: Matt Widiker
The Glenrock Bird
Yingling's attitude and work ethic have a trickle down effect. Like coach, like athlete. Improvement and success are inevitable, and will be reported with pride in the weeks to come.
By Dr. Kathy Blair, PT, DPT Wind City Physical TherapyGlenrock, Woming
Headaches
Symptoms Tension Headache: A pain that begins in the back of the head and upper neck as a band-like tightness or pressure; described as a band of pressure encircling the head with the most intense pain over the eyebrows; the pain is usually mild (not disabling) and bilateral (affecting both sides of the head); not associated with an aura and are not associated with nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound; usually occur sporadically (infrequently and without a pattern) but can occur frequently and even daily in some people; most people are able to function despite their tension headaches. Cluster headaches are headaches that come in groups (clusters) lasting weeks or months, separated by pain-free periods of months or years. During the period in which the cluster headaches occur, pain typically occurs once or twice daily, but some patients may experience pain more than twice daily. Each episode of pain lasts from 30 minutes to an hour and a half. Attacks tend to occur at about the same time every day and often awaken the patient at night from a sound sleep. The pain typically is excruciating and located around or behind one eye. Some patients describe the pain as feeling like a hot poker in the eye. The affected eye may become red, inflamed, and watery. The nose on the affected side may become congested and runny. Unlike patients with migraine headaches, patients with cluster headaches tend to be restless. Secondary headaches are due to an underlying disease or injury that needs to be diagnosed and treated. Controlling the headache symptom will need to occur at the same time diagnostic tests are being considered. Some of the causes of secondary headache may be potentially life-threatening and deadly. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential, if damage is to be limited. The International Headache Society lists eight categories of secondary headache. A few examples in each category are noted (this is not a complete list): Head and neck trauma: concussions, whiplash, head injury Blood vessel problems in the head and neck: stroke, TIA, arteriovenous malformations Non-blood vessel problems of the brain: brain tumors, seizures Medications and drugs (including withdrawal from those drugs) I n f e c ti o n:m e ni ng i t i s , encephalitis, HIV/AIDS, systemic infections Changes in the body's environment: high blood pressure, dehydration Problems with the eyes, ears, nose throat, teeth and neck Psychiatric disorders
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Cowboy Column Cowboy Poet Columnist TJ Casey 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.
CHRISTMAS POEM It’s come that time of year again; when a body spreads some cheer. So give our best to everyone whether far away or near. The words we speak are from the heart, to the friends that we hold dear. So have yer self, a Merry Christmas, and be blessed with a super New Year!
The Night Hawk Night Hawk Bird 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
CHRISTMAS HAS CHRIST IN IT... DEAL WITH IT
Christmas is a season that I wish we could embrace year-round. The warmth of the holiday infuses us with more patience, kindness and overall tolerance. Why then, do people find offense when they are wished a “Merry Christmas” or hear Christmas tunes as they shop?
Makes A Great Christmas Gift!
T GREA IFT! AS G TM
CHRIS
I have friends from many faiths and many countries. When they wish me a Happy Hanukah or Kwanza or whatever their beliefs happen to dictate I find it complimentary. They are attempting to wish me well and spread their happiness and warmth into my life. I don’t find it offensive or even pushy. I take their well wishes with grace in the spirit in which they were intended. I do find it offensive; however, when we, as Christians are told that we cannot have a Christmas tree or sing Christmas music in school, or have a nativity scene in the front yard. Why is it, that in this day and age, to be a Christian and to express that belief is offensive to others? We are a country of tolerance and always have been. Why is it, in this country that has always advocated acceptance, that we are now the oppressed? I think people who believe in God are tired of being pushed around. I intend to continue wishing my friends, family and even strangers a Merry Christmas. And I will accept the well wishes of other faiths with the same acceptance as that which I expect. This is the attitude we all should have year round, not just during this lovely season. Truly this is the message that Christ brought us, to love thy neighbor as thyself. There wasn’t a caveat tagged at the end that stated ‘unless their beliefs are different than yours.’
Sunday, December 20, 2009
The Glenrock Bird
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MERHABA! HI IN TURKISH FROM THE LIBRARY! The library will be closed December 24 and will reopen the following Monday, December 28 for the Christmas holiday. It will also be closed December 31 at 5:00 and will reopen Saturday, January 2 for the New Year holiday. Hope you and your family have a great holiday season. Try as they might the Foundation Board was having a hard time trying to get the community cookbooks out before Christmas with no success. Fortunately, the high school computer publishing class under the supervision of Mrs. Kidneigh has graciously come to their aide. With Christmas break soon upon us, the cookbooks will be ready sometime after Christmas. A big thank you to all who have been involved with the task of writing, gathering, compiling and at last getting them put together. I know it will be worth all the time it’s taken, to finally make them available to you.
HOUSE FOR SALE - 440 Gold Pan Drive Sun Up Ridge in Glenrock - Price $189,000.00
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L O
Beautiful ranch style home in quiet residential subdivision. Three bedroom, two bathrooms and a two car garage (with gas heater!) makes this 1376 square foot home the ideal place for any family looking to buy. Built in 2006 - features include Tankless Water Heater / In Floor Hot Water Heat Dishwaser, Refrigerator, Overhead Microwave, Stove.
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-Vaulted ceilings in main house. -Master bedroom sports a wonderful walk in closet, double sink, double headed tile shower -Floor coverings include wood, tile and carpet -Foundation - Crawlspace
AND THATS NOT ALL! Outside Features include an 8x12 shed that matches the house, front and back automatic sprinkler system, wood fenced backyard complete with a dog run, backyard porch and patio with hot tub hook up and plenty of space niceley graveled on side of house perfect for your RV, boat or other recreational vehicles.
Please call 436-5797 or 267-6515 to book your appointment to view this beautiful home.
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES!
“I have been asked by my children and grandchildren to write a full, accurate and complete account of how I met, wooed and won their mother and grandmother, and Pawnee maiden called by her people, Light-In-Darkness…”
Commercial Building in downtown Glenrock zoned Central Business or residential! 70x40 built in 1999 with 10x10 OH door, 3 phase power, central air, gas forced air overhead heating system throughout building. Office has baseboard heat. This building has been used in the past as a mfg location for gun scope rings; a photography studio (as noted by all the murals on the Virtual Tour and as a newspaper printing office. Total of 2800SF on a 6000SF lot. GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR START UP BUSINESS... AND YOU CAN LIVE THERE TOO! Call 436-5447 --- View more information at: www.firstrealtywyoming.com/exclusive.php?id=111
This is the beginning of an accurate account of the diary of Wesley Moulton as written by William Augustus Martin. The book is the recollections of an 84 year old who writes in 1926 about his exploits as a young and energetic man heading into the wild frontier in 1862. Both Glenrock and Douglas libraries have available LightIn-Darkness by William Augustus Martin. The cost is $8.95. As it states on the front of the book, this is its 3rd reprinting through the courtesy of the Converse County Library, in recognition and celebration of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Douglas library and in commemoration of the years of service to the people of Converse County, 1905-2005.
FREE
CLASSIFIEDS!!!!! on items $100 or Less!
BRING IT!
This is a book worth having in your collection. It makes for a great Christmas gift for all of your family and friends who love to read history that entails an early account of the LaBonte Valley. Read Me A Story for December 19~ December 26: The Night Before Christmas adapted by Jan Brett. Dial 4362353 and listen to a good story. We’re on the web at http:wyldweb.state.wy.us/glen. Our phone number is 436-2573. Fax number is 436-8525. 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.
Deadline for Advertisers & Submissions: 4pm every Thursday.
Thought for the day: Library, Endowment, and Donation.
SUBSCRIBE FOR HOME DELIVERY TODAY! Call 436-5447
PO Box 1207 (307) 436-5447 Glenrock, WY e-mail: info@theglenrockbird.com 214 South 5th - Glenrock, WY 82637 A weekly newspaper published every Sunday in Glenrock, Wyoming Copyright: The Glenrock Bird Nothing may be reprinted or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Periodical Postage Pending at Glenrock, WY
Amanda Smith Publisher/Editor
Jessica Smith - Senior Staff Reporter/Photographer Jessica Smith - Administrative Assistant to the Editor Mark Dosa - Sports and General News Writer Bill Keesee - Sports Writer Wendy Beck - Advetising Representative - J.C. The Amazing SS Rebecca Thomas and Carl Codner - Exemplary Folders Rosco Oruzco - Fabulous Delivery Driver Sugar and Simon - Bird Mascots Brenda Beaugareau - Girl Friday www.theglenrockbird.com nfo@theglenrockbird.com
Sunday, December 20, 2009
The Glenrock Bird
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News From The Nest LUMMIS: SECOND STIMULUS PROVES FIRST ONE FAILED WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., said that passage of a second stimulus bill proves that the widely touted first stimulus plan failed. Lummis voted against the $150 billion so-called “Jobs for Main Street Act.” “In January, President Obama and Speaker Pelosi told the American people that their $787 billion stimulus plan would put people back to work and get this country back on track,” Lummis said. “People in Wyoming knew that more government spending would not get us out of our economic troubles. Today’s passage of a second stimulus plan proves that the President and Speaker Pelosi were wrong and
people in Wyoming were right. “Washington spending will only make matters worse and will bring little to no relief to those Americans suffering from job losses and financial hardship. This new stimulus plan embraces the failed stimulus policies of the past instead of relying on proven methods to get our economy back on track. Instead of providing relief to those who are struggling to create and maintain jobs, the legislation expands government spending and saddles future generations with more debt. “Since the passage of the first stimulus, more than 7 million Americans have lost their jobs bringing the unem-
ployment rate to a 26 year high – 10 percent. It’s no wonder Democrats are eager to try to re-brand their failed economic plans by passing a new so-called jobs plan.” The legislation was written under a completely closed process largely out of the view of the public. The bill did not receive congressional hearings or markups, was not subject to non-partisan budget analysis, and was not allowed to be amended on the floor. “I believe Republicans have offered better solutions to the economic woes facing Americans. Our plan would have cost $500 billion less than the Democrats’plan and would have created twice as many jobs by cutting taxes
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and giving individuals and small business back the money they’ve earned. This is a true stimulus for the economy.”
Democrats who championed “stimulus” measures as economic solutions don’t seem to have a lot of faith in their own policies.
The following are low-lights of the Democrats’ “Stimulus II” bill:
· $2.3 billion for various programs funded in the Interior bill, including EPA water and wastewater grants and various other programs. These programs got $8.4 billion in the first “stimulus,” of which only 4 percent has been spent. And, the regular FY 2010 Interior bill approved by Congress this fall – which also contained funding for these programs – contained a 17 percent increase over last year.
· $75 billion in additional spending on discretionary programs, despite the fact Congress just last week passed a massive half trillion dollar spending bill providing a 12 percent increase for non-defense, non-veterans discretionary programs for Fiscal Year 2010. · $23 billion to bailout state and local governments through FY 2011. This is on top of the $53 billion the Democrats approved in the first Stimulus to bail them out in FY 2009 and FY 2010. By extending these bailouts for yet another year, it appears that even the
· $2 billion to “repay” money taken earlier in the year from an alternative energy loan guarantee program to pay for “Cash for Clunkers.” This loan program has spent less than one-tenth of one percent of the $4 billion provided in the first “stimulus” bill.
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED RIGHT HERE FOR *FREE!!! *for items $100 or less CHEAP! CLASSIFIEDS IN THE BIRD! WE CAN SELL YOUR STUFF! PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED FOR *FREE!!! CALL NOW! 436-5447 · $500 million in immediate funding for Summer Youth Jobs in December. Congress provided $1.2 billion on youth training in the first “stimulus,” and only about 60 percent of the original funds have been expended. · $154 billion in deficit spending. While the Democrats claim to have “offset” $75 billion with unused or recycled funds from the TARP program, this is merely a gimmick to spend TARP funds that otherwise are being used to pay down the deficit. For the remaining $79 billion, Democrats would once again simply waive their much touted “pay-go” rules to spend tax-dollars on entitlement programs expansions. Therefore, nothing in this bill is “paid for,” the spending in the legislation will still come out of the treasury, and taxpayers will still be footing the bill.
BARRASSO: WASHINGTON POWER PLAY THREATENS STATES’ RIGHTS AND WYOMING COAL JOBS WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a letter to President Barack Obama, Senator Barrasso and seven Senators expressed their opposition to the Administration’s decision to review all state-issued coal permits. “States have been regulating coal for decades- but now the Obama Administration has announced another decision to exert even more control over our ability to manage our resources. Washington shouldn’t second guess staterun programs that operate within the framework of the law and provide good jobs for thousands of people in Wyoming,” Barrasso said. The Senators argue the decision could encroach on states’ rights, create a duplicative and costly layer of bureaucracy, and contradict the congressional intent of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA) and Clean Water Act of 1972. “This Washington power play on states’ rights will undermine the ability of states to manage their coal programs.
Ensuring the long-term viability of American coal production is critical for promoting American energy security and creating more Wyoming jobs.” ---December 16, 2009 The Honorable Barack H. Obama President of the United States The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: We write to express our concerns with a recent proposal by your Administration to impose additional, costly regulations on United States coal production. We believe they are unnecessary and duplicate existing programs that are jurisdictionally under the purview of individual states. Coal mining is a vital component of our states’ economies. It provides good-paying jobs and a reliable source of affordable electricity to the entire nation. Ensuring the longterm viability of American coal production is critical for
Sunday, December 20, 2009
promoting American energy security and creating American jobs. The Administration’s recent decision to begin reviewing state-issued mining permits encroaches on states’ rights, creates a duplicative and costly layer of bureaucracy, and contradicts the Congressional intent of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA) and Clean Water Act of 1972. We are seriously concerned that such a move will have many unintended economic consequences for coal producing and consuming states nationwide. It also compromises the Administration’s commitment to using America’s abundant and affordable coal resources to meet our energy needs. SMCRA established a framework under which states develop and manage their own regulatory programs so long as they are no less stringent than the federal standards required by the law. This approach recognizes that states are better equipped to handle management of coal mining and reclamation
because the methods, challenges, and characteristics of coal mining are unique in each state. By creating a duplicative federal regulatory program, state authority will be undercut and the value of state-tailored programs will be lost. This is the first time since states began issuing surface mining permits in the 1980s that the federal government will take this extraordinary step. We believe that states have shown to be good stewards of the law and remain concerned about any steps the Administration may take to weaken their existing authority. At a time when our country is facing economic uncertainty and families are struggling to meet their needs, we ask that you employ a balanced approach to evaluating our national mining permitting process. Our states need a consistent and predictable regulatory program that will protect and create jobs in an environmentally responsible manner. Coal is an affordable, abundant, and reliable American energy resource. It provides
The Glenrock Bird
power to American homes and businesses and creates jobs for hard-working Americans across the United States. We urge you to reconsider any policies that will
undercut states’ authority and ability to manage coal mining and reclamation, as envisioned by Congress in the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act.
Open enrollment for Medicare Part D ends Dec. 31. Now is the time to review your plan as each year plans change what they cost as well as what they cover. We offer free assistance to review plans. Please call the center to make an appointment if you are interested in reviewing your plan. The commodities are in. This month’s items are mixed fruit, choice of lamb chops or turkey, orange juice and instant milk. You may pick your commodities up at the Glenrock Senior Center.
TOPS NOVEMBER AWARDS TOPS # WY 173 has issued its recognition awards for November, 2009. Jo Ann Loos, Greta Peppersack, and Peaches Richards weighed in four weeks in a row. Peaches Richards, as of November 23, 2009 has been a KOPS for 13 ½ years. Congratulations to the people at TOPS!
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employees, the market value of the work being performed and the need to continue to provide service to our customers at the lowest reasonable price."
DAVE JOHNSON UWUA LOCAL 127 MEMBERS VOTE ON CONTRACT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 "Currently, PacifiCorp pays 87.5 percent of our medical premiums. They propose to reduce that percentage to 70 percent." When asked how this would affect union members, Giberson again used his personal situation as an example. "I currently pay about $210.00 a month in medical premiums. Under the proposed contract, my portion of the premium would increase substantially." Giberson also has concerns with what PacifiCorp calls the "10 & 55" plan. According to Giberson, if accepted, this plan would affect all Local 127 members coming on board on or
after January 2, 2010. "This proposal does allow members who have put in at least 10 years to retire at age 55. The problem is that for members who come on board on or after January 2, 2010, there will be no company contribution to help defray medical premiums after retirement. The union member can either pay the full premium amount, or take advantage of a government medical program." Giberson states that under the current contract, a significant portion of medical premiums is paid by the company after the member has retired. Giberson is of the opinion
that rather than negotiating, PacifiCorp refuses to budge on the aforementioned three items: pension, medical benefits, and the removal of medical premium subsidies for retired employees who begin employment on or after January 2, 2010. If the proposed contract is not accepted by members, Giberson stated that PacifiCorp plans on putting a less attractive proposal on the table, subject to negotiation. However, he states that even if this happens, there is no guarantee that a lockout would not occur on or sometime after January 19. When asked if a strike by Local 127 members is a possible option, Giberson
replied that "I will leave that up to the members. I will not authorize a strike without membership approval. There would be a vote on this." A written statement provided by Rocky Mountain Power representative Jeff Hymas states in part that "…the company provided UWUA Local 127 with a revised contract offer that included improvements to wages and pensions. Members of Local 127 will be voting on the company's offer Dec. 14-18." "The company has given the membership of UWUA Local 127 an offer that we believe appropriately balances the interest of our
Union 127 member Jody Chandler offered his perspective on the current negotiations while watching the Lady Herder basketball team practice on the evening of Wednesday, December 16. His wife works for the school district and is one of the team's coaches. "Everyone is waiting, wondering, and gathering information - jobs aren't that abundant - people are a little nervous." Chandler continued. "There is somewhat of a brotherhood at work… we know each other. We work together, we hunt together. Everyone's concerned. Everyone would have been satisfied with maintaining the status quo, but instead we've seen some major take aways." A pleasant man with a ready
smile, Chandler was pragmatic about a worst case scenario. "Can they (management) run the plant without us?" Chandler considered. "Yes." After further rumination, Chandler offered a final thought. "Yes, I believe they can run the plant without us - but are they going to struggle? Yes, they will." Many hardworking Glenrock residents work at the Dave Johnston power plant. Losing these jobs would prove catastrophic for these employees, and most certainly have a negative impact on Glenrock's economy. Fortunately, the worst has yet to happen. If the current contract proposal is rejected by union membership, let's hope that the next round of negotiations bring reasonable people with reasonable expectations to the table. Hopefully, a contract that is perceived as fair and equitable to both parties can be achieved through mutual respect and hard work.
BIG TRUCK, BIG ROCK - COMMUNITY AWARENESS Jessica Smith - Staff Reporter
When Don Kuhn of Rolling Hills was on his way to Casper one morning, he thought about the other motorists on the road…he thought about the nice weather occurring after so many days of bad…but what he didn't think about was how merely driving by a large truck, which was hauling rock, could ruin his day. On Tuesday, December 15, Mr. Kuhn was traveling west bound on the Old Highway when he passed a 'belly dump' truck, which was traveling east bound. Once by the large truck, Kuhn heard an immense 'CRACK'!, that made his heart skip a beat. Estimating the offending projectile at nearly an inch-and-a-half wide,
Kuhn was appalled at the damage to his windshield. Having not noticed any particular markings on the truck, and not knowing if the rock came from the truck's load, the truck itself, or the road, Kuhn had no recourse for his damaged windshield, which is what prompted him to contact The Glenrock Bird. "My main objective in this thing is to make sure drivers of the trucks are responsible for making sure there is no loose debris on their trucks when they hit the road, make the contractors aware of what's going on, and make the public definitely aware that between Glenrock and Casper, these big trucks are out there…," he said.
During this time of expansion in the area, drivers on both the interstate and the Old Highway need to be aware of these large trucks and the hazards they pose. When traveling at 65 mph, it is difficult for a driver of such a large vehicle to even know when something like this has taken place, let alone slow down and stop to see what has happened. Drivers, although limited in what they can do to avoid these incidents, simply need to be aware that they can happen. Don Kuhn definitely is, and had one more to-thepoint piece of advice to give: "Beware motorists!" he said.
Don Kuhn was justifiably shaken when a large rock took this chunk from his windshield. Had the rock hit higher, things could have been much worse for Kuhn...and anyone riding with him. Photo © Jessica Smith
GLENROCK BOWL HOSTS FRANK LYONS 777 BOWLING TOURNAMENT Jessica Smith - Staff Reporter
On Saturday, December 5th and Sunday, December 6th, the fourth annual Frank Lyons 777 bowling tournament was held at Glenrock Bowl. Frank Lyons was a member of the Men's Association (of bowlers) for
approximately 25 years before he passed away due to cancer. This tournament is named in his honor. There were 29 entries for the tournament, each entry consisting of a four-member team. The 777 in the name
comes from the fact that the team members' averages (what they normally bowl) couldn't be more than 777--in this way, the teams would be more evenly matched. From the semi-finals on Saturday, 12 of the 29 teams advanced to the finals on Sunday where they bowled 6 games to find out who was the 'best of the best'. The 12 teams in the finals would all at least get their entry money back, since the prize money allowed for $120 for 12th place all the way up to $650 for 1st place. Organized and run by four ladies of the Association, the tournament was a big success. Deana McGrady, Pat Yates, Stephanie Parkinson, and Carla Bloem were, according to Gary Eckhardt, owner of Glenrock Bowl, "Four people who did most of the leg work." So who took the top spot at the Frank Lyons 777? Spencer Guthmiller, Allan Landess, Gary Thomas, and Rick Miller otherwise known as 'Four Play'.
Not only was the tournament a success, but it also was the kick-off to something far more important. Gayle Hoyer, who recentTeam Four Play, consisting of Spencer Guthmiller, Allan Landess, Gary Thomas, and Rick Miller ly passed from cancer, is the inspiration bask in the glow of their win at the Frank Lyons 777 bowling tournament here in Glenrock last behind a new fundraiser going on at the weekend, hosted by Glenrock Bowl. Photo by Deana McGrady. bowling alley. Eckhardt explains, "They're
starting a scholarship for her son, Kyle, who is 14 years old...we started this weekend raising money for that fund. We are doing it every night of the league (up until Christmas break)." How the group raises money is through a 50/50 raffle--people can buy raffle tickets for a certain price and then when a winner is drawn, they get 50% of the total money taken in. The other 50% will go into the scholarship fun for Kyle. "These people open up their billfolds and their hearts to this...," Eckhardt said, "This boy will hopefully benefit from some of the people's contributions...whether he goes to college or not, he'll have some money set aside." Eckhardt is quick to point out that the fundraising is a group effort and gives most of the credit to the bowlers of whom he said, "Without them, I'm nothing." The men and women who organized the Frank Lyons 777 tournament would like to say a big "Thank You" to their sponsors: Glenrock Bowl, Northern Lights Energy Co's, Inc., Classic Cafe and Pizza, Red's Speedy Lube and Tires, Deer Creek Lounge, NAPA Auto Parts of Glenrock, The Glenrock Bird, Shoreliner Lounge, Four Aces, Outlaw Drilling, Hilltop National Bank, DHS Drilling, Coleman Electrical Services, and DXP.
H1N1 VACINES NOW RECOMMENDED FOR MOST WYOMING RESIDENTS The Wyoming Department of Health is recommending that nearly all Wyoming residents who haven’t yet received a vaccination to protect themselves from swine (novel H1N1) flu should seek out the vaccine.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
flu activity. It certainly could flare up again. That’s why it’s important to get vaccinated against the strain,” Sherard said.
coworkers may already be ill with flu to get vaccinated. Getting protected before the flu is circulating around you is a far smarter idea.”
“Supplies of the H1N1 vaccine are fairly plentiful across the state,” said Dr. Brent Sherard, Wyoming Department of Health director and state health officer. More than 147,000 doses have so far been delivered in Wyoming.
“We’ve been saying all along this is not a normal flu season because of the H1N1 strain,” Sherard said. “This season, for the best possible protection, most people need both a seasonal flu vaccination and a special one to fight the new strain. Vaccines are the single most effective weapon we have to fight influenza.”
“While flu activity is quiet in Wyoming right now, there’s a lot of winter left and we don’t know what the coming months will mean for H1N1
Sherard noted influenza vaccines take roughly 10 days to offer effective protection. “It’s not very helpful to wait until friends, classmates or
The H1N1 vaccine began arriving in Wyoming in late October. “Because initial supplies were limited, vaccination efforts were focused on people most threatened by H1N1,” Sherard said. “Shipments have grown and supplies of the vaccine are now far less limited. Counties are opening up their distribution well beyond those first target groups.”
The Glenrock Bird
Sherard is also reminding parents that children under age 10 need two doses of the
H1N1 vaccine. “Some young children who received their first dose are likely due for that second vaccination by now,” he said. “Our public health nursing offices and local healthcare partners around the state did a great job of reaching out to the initial vaccine target groups,” Sherard said. He added county public health nursing offices are the best source for current, local information about vaccine supply and availability. More information about swine (novel H1N1) flu and vaccination in Wyoming is also available online at www.health.wyo.gov .
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-Controlled Burn Reported -Accident. Emergency units dispatched x2 -Rollover. UTL -Rollover. Emergency Thursday, 12.10.09 units dispatched -Rolling Hills Patrol -Slide Off. Emergency Complete x4 units dispatched x3 -Concerned Citizen. -Dog At Large. Officer Everything okay spoke to owner -VIN Inspection -Warrant Arrest. One Completed Transported to CCSO -Gas Drive Off Reported -Rolling Hills Patrol -Officer Assisted Subject Complete with Vehicle Problems -Citizen Assist Monday, 12.14.09 -Water Leak. Public -Dogs At Large. Officer Works notified spoke with owner -Disturbance. Officer -VIN Inspection responded Completed -Ambulance. Negative Friday, 12.11.09 transport -Alarm. Public Works -Officer Unlocked notified x3 Vehicle for Subject x2 -Officer Completed -Ambulance. One transWelfare Check ported to Casper -Dog At Large. -Rolling Hills Patrol Unable to locate Complete -Extra Patrol Completed -Alarm. Public Works -Range Key Issued notified -Traffic Stop. Verbal -Medical. One transportwarning issued for ed to Casper registration -Slide Off. WHP notified -Battery. Subject arrested Tuesday, 12.15.09 -Comm Tech Performed -Medical. Negative a Notary transport -Traffic Stop. Verbal -Rolling Hills Patrol warning issued for head- Completed x2 light -Dog At Large Reported -Lost Property Reported Saturday, 12.12.09 -Alarm. Public Works -Rolling Hills Patrol notified Completed x2 -ATL Vehicle Involved in -Parking Complaint a Gas Drive Off. UTL -WHP Notified to -Domestic Dispute Investigate a Traffic Reported Accident Involving a -OAA. Officers assisted GPD Unit and Another with possible drug activiVehicle ty -Ambulance Request -Officer Performed a -Public Intoxication. Welfare Check Transported to detention -Vandalism to a Vehicle center Reported. Report taken -E-911 Domestic. One Transported to County Wednesday, 12.16.09 Detention -Rolling Hills Patrol -E-911 Hang Up. Completed x4 Everything okay -Medical. One -Dog At Large. Message transported to WMC left for ACO -Officer Unlocked a Vehicle Door Sunday, 12.13.09 -Range Key Issued -Alarm. Building was -Doge Bite Reported. secure Referred to another -OAA. Property Damage agency Reported in Back Yard. -Warrant Arrest. Converse County Deputy Transported to detention responded, call turned center over to Game and Fish -PBT Administered at -Citizen Assist Request of Probation & Completed x2 Parole -Property Damage. -OAA. Officer assisted Report taken another agency -Fire Reported -Comm Tech Performed Notary
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GLENROCK'S PONY EXPRESS RIDES THE TRAIL AGAIN DELIVERS CHRISTMAS MAIL TO LOCAL POST OFFICES By Mark Dosa
On Saturday, December 12, local members of the National Pony Express Association braved freezing temperatures and winds exceeding 40 miles per hour to participate in a Glenrock/Douglas Christmas card exchange. The goal was to meet midway between the two cities before exchanging mail. Eight Glenrock riders participated in the event, beginning their journey from the corner of 5th and Birch at 9:20 in the morning. The Glenrock Pony Express members rode about a mile before relaying the mail to the next rider in line. During the exchange, a special bag containing the mail known as a mochila was moved from horse to horse. Association riders left Douglas for the midway exchange location at the same time as their Glenrock counterparts. About 400 pieces of mail was carefully packed inside the Glenrock mochila, some of which was addressed to destinations far off the beaten path. A few riders mentioned seeing mail addressed to foreign countries, including Iraq. Perhaps a Christmas card to a soldier serving his country? Cards were embossed with a special stamp commemorating the ride. After the Glenrock/Douglas exchange, an Express Rider would return to his city of origin to deposit the Christmas cards at the local post office, the horse carried mail then routed through normal government channels for final delivery. The mochila used by the Glenrock riders was covered with signatures of participants in the 2002 Pony Express redo, a grand event which annually covers over 1,900 miles, tracing the original Pony
Pony Express rider Jay Jensen carries the mail on the fourth leg of Glenrock's Pony Express ride that delivered mail Pony Express style on Saturday. Photo © Amanda Smith
Riders wore official Pony Express jackets to aid in their identification. Many different breeds of horses were ridden, including paints, appaloosas, quarters, and Arabians.
Douglas Pony Express Rider Lynetter Herrick rides her beautiful paint during the last leg of the Douglas ride. Photo © Jessica Smith
The wind was so powerful that even a properly cinched down cowboy hat temporarily lost contact with its owner. Fortunately for fearless rider Lynette Herrick, she was eventually reunited with her errant head gear. Glenrock Pony Express Rider rides during the last leg of the Glenrock Pony Express ride. Photo © Amanda Smith
Kim Cain, a Glenrock resident and member of the National Pony Express Association, enjoyed taking part in the event. “I’ve been a member for a little over a year. I joined with my son, who has an interest in American history. I’m proud to be able to bring a part of history back, and enjoy the knowledge I’ve gained about the Express.” Glenrock’s own Les Bennington is President of the National Pony Express Association, a group of more than 1,300 members whose goal is to keep the memory of the Pony Express and the brave souls who participated
would then reverse course, heading back towards St. Joseph. Home stations were more elaborate, but luxurious they were not. Many Pony Express riders decided to sleep on hay bales rather than mattresses, rough hay being preferable to lice. While a well known aspect of American lore, the Pony Express operated for a far shorter period of time than what many folks imagine. Less than 19 months after its inception, the Express became obsolete, a victim to modern technology. The telegraph had arrived, sounding the death knell for the Express and its band of courageous riders.
Glenrockian and Pony Express rider Rick Bretton rides the second leg of the Pony Express mail ride last Saturday in Glenrock. Photo © Amanda Smith.
Express trail from St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California. This Christmas card exchange was created to honor the memory of past Pony Express riders, while also providing residents with a taste of how very different mail delivery was in a time when a “postmans” job was not only painfully difficult, but quite often life threatening. More than one Pony Express rider fell victim to the sharp end of an Indian arrow. Pony Express Rider Justin Kapp of North Dakota started the Glenrock segment and rode the first leg before exchanging wtih Rick Bretton who rode the second leg, Les Bennington picked it up from there and passed the mail bags off to Jay Jensen who rode out to the Douglas exit and traded off with Paula Hess. Paula (riding one of two Leopard Appaloosas) carried the bag from the Douglas exit and traded off with her son Mick Hess (riding the second Leopard Appaloosa), Justin Kapp (who rode two segments) picked it up at the Bixby Ranch exit, and Kim Cain traded out at the midpoint with Douglas Pony Express rider Lynette Herrick. The Glenrock riders rode out of town down highway 26 then out to Interstate 25 - a route that closely paralleled the one used by the original Pony Express. During the journey to the exchange point, Glenrock riders could hear honking vehicle horns, sounds of recognition and appreciation for what was being accomplished.
Above: Glenrock Pony Express Rider Mick Hess rides the 6th leg of the Pony Express ride while carrying Christmas cards. Mick will transfer the mail to a 7th ride who will continue on the 7th leg of the trip. Photo © Amanda Smith.
Above: Justin Kapp crosses Deer Creek in Glenrock as he starts out on the first leg of Glenrock's Pony Express mail delivery ride, carrying hundreds of Christmas cards delivered by Pony Express Riders in from Glenrock to Douglas on last Saturday's Pony Express Mail ride. Photo © Amanda Smith
Above: President of the National Pony Express Association and fellow Glenrockian Les Bennington completes the 7th leg of Saturday's Pony Express ride that delivered mail (Christmas cards) via good old fashioned Pony Express last Saturday. Les also carried the mail on the third leg of the Glenrock Christmas Pony Express Mail Delivery Ride. Photo © Amanda Smith
The Pony Express may be gone, but thanks to the efforts of Les Bennington and his intrepid crew, its memory lives on.
in the grand venture alive. After Saturday’s successful Christmas card exchange, Bennington revealed some fascinating history behind the genesis of the Pony Express. “The whole endeavor was remarkable. The idea behind the Pony Express and its implementation took place in less than three months.” And what an endeavor it was. Spanning over 1,900 miles across 8 states, the original Pony Express mandate had riders on the trail 24 hours a day, rain or shine. Riders were paid the then princely sum of $25.00 per day. Even so, many succumbed to the arduous demands of the venture, and reckoned that continuing in the employ of the Express was just - well, just too bloody hard. Those who continued were part of a crew capable of transporting valuable documents from St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California in 10 days. 1,966 miles in 10 days on horseback, all the while dealing with inhospitable terrain, weather, and oft-times not too friendly natives. The torrid pace was maintained as riders changed horses every 12 to 15 miles at what were known as relay stations - perhaps nothing more than a small corral with 4 or 5 horses, a station manager, and a ramshackle structure that would occasionally house an injured or exhausted rider. Normally, a rider would travel perhaps 60 to 80 miles before arriving at a home station, where he would then rest and wait until mail from Sacramento arrived. He
Sunday, December 20, 2009
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there. The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads. And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap. When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a minia-
ture sleigh, and eight tinny reindeer. With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name! "Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!" As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky. So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too. And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of
The Glenrock Bird
each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound. He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot. A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack. His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow. The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath. He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself! A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread. He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk. And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose! He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, 'ere he drove out of sight, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!" Although Clement C. Moore is given the credit for writing 'Twas the Night Before Christmas', there are those who believe it was actually Henry Livingston that penned the beloved poem.
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