Sunday, February 14th, 2010
50¢
THE BIRD AT A GLANCE TOP OF THE NEWS
BLANCHARD VS. MHCC WHAT'S BEST FOR CONVERSE COUNTY?
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery ~ Charles Caleb Colton
See Story Front Page
GLENROCK COMMUNITY - 2-3 Carrying The Right News... To The Right Places Glenrock’s Sunday Morning Hometown Local News Newspaper
Volume #3: Issue 33
A GLENROCK MARINE WRITES FROM AFGHANISTAN Back in November of 2009, Glenrock’s American Legion Auxiliary Post #9 requested that the community contribute care packages for American soldiers stationed overseas.
Corporal Epperly is a Glenrock resident with family here in town. In Afghanistan, the brave Marine serves as a 50-caliber turret gunner. Epperly’s letter is handwritten, and the cursive is a bit hard to decipher. Perhaps it
was written on the battlefield; maybe it was scripted in a foxhole. Whatever the case may be, Glenrock residents who contributed care packages should take pride in the fact that their kindness touched the heart of Corporal Epperly, and made his December in war torn Afghanistan a bit more tolerable.
Dart throwing. Some do it for fun, some do it for money.
GRANT ELEMENTARY: TWO WIND TURBINES ON-LINE BY MAY 15 During a meeting of Converse County School District #2 board members on Tuesday, February 9, ITC Electrical Technologies in Casper was awarded a contract for the installation of two wind turbines on the Grant Elementary School site.
HERDER SPORTS & EVENTS - 4
by staff reporter Mark Dosa
On February 8, 2010, ALAP #9 received a letter from an appreciative Marine stationed in Afghanistan, Corporal R.A. Epperly.
GLENROCK’S SHORELINER DART THROWERS IN VEGAS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
DEFENSE AND CHEMISTRY ON THE UPSWING FOR HERDER BOYS The Herder Boys lost their away game on Saturday, February 6, at Thermopolis. However, the final score of 47 to 54 does little to hint at the improvement this team is making in their run for postseason success.
HERDER LADIES FIGHT INJURIES, SEARCH FOR “SWITCH” The letter sent by Epperly is transcribed in its entirety below. A photo of the original is also included.
sions. As a 50 cal turret gunner I keep many of your items with me. (especially on long cold nights)
***** Dear Members of Aux #9 & Others
252 will press on knowing that Aux #9 and the local community have already taken care of many of the little things that make us a more effective unit. Service members will tell you these items add up & do make a difference. My heart fills with pride knowing that Marines from all parts of the U.S. have Glenrock, WY giving us a holiday “resupply”. It’s an honor to represent such a community. OHRAHH!
My sincerest thanks from the Marines of CLC 252. Your support is a godsend here in the deserts of Helmand Province. The support of the Legion & the community brought a needed dose of holiday cheer to Camp Leatherneck. The letters, snacks, and hygiene products were great. These gifts not only boost moral, but provide practical items used for missions & day to day care.
Cpl. Epperly R.A. CLC 252 GSMT Co U.S.M.C.
Myself & many of the Marines of 252 are nomadic in many ways. Most of us are continuously on the move from F.O.B. to F.O.B. & city to city. You can imagine how useful your packages are on these mis-
***** The Glenrock Bird thanks Regina (of ALAP #9) and her husband Harold Engstrom for taking the time to bring Corporal Epperly’s letter to our office.
BLANCHARD VS. MHCC WHAT'S BEST FOR CONVERSE COUNTY? by staff reporter Susan Stoltz
Health Care seems to be at the forefront of many a conversation these days. Even more so for the town of Douglas, Wyoming where the hospital, Memorial Hospital of Converse County is at odds with one of their own, Dr. Sherri Blanchard. For the purpose of this article I will attempt to inform, not to incite. The issue is charged with emotion as Dr. Blanchard’s large patient base is upset about losing a doctor who they trust and goes the extra mile to make certain they are cared for. The hospital is unhappy with Dr. Blanchard’s refusal to honor the contract presented to her when hired. The issue, however, goes
beyond these simple premises. MHCC does spend time, effort and money to recruit qualified doctors to move to the area. Recruiting can take some convincing. Rural areas are considerably less desirable than big city hospitals in terms of advancement, pay scale, and technology. The hospital contends that in order to recoup the financial investment they make in a physicians practice; office staff, salary, recruiting efforts, it’s of the utmost importance that they honor their contract and not be considered ‘competition’ for a certain period of time. Competition meaning they do not take their patient base and set up a practice within sixty miles for a term of two years. This is the ‘non-compete’ clause of Dr. Blanchard’s contract. They have continued to pay her a very high salary based on a national scale
On Saturday, February 6, the Lady Herders lost a home basketball game to a hot Thermopolis team by the score of 35 to 48.
NEWS FROM THE NEST - 6 BARASSO SUPPORTS SHUTTING DOWN CIVILIAN TRIALS FOR 9/11 TERRORISTS Today, Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) cosponsored Senator Lindsey Graham’s bipartisan bill that would cut off funding for the trials of the 9/11 conspirators in civilian court.
CONVERSE COUNTY & BEYOND - 8-9 SPECIAL OLYMPICS EXPERIENCE SUCCESS AT CASPER WINTER GAMES On Saturday, January 6, nine Douglas athletes competed in the area III and V Special Olympic Winter games in Casper. (Glenrock Special Olympians will compete in the upcoming summer games.)
TOURISM BOARD ADJUSTS TO CHANGES IN OCCUPANCY, LODGING TAX REVENUE Converse County, Wyoming — Lodging tax revenues in Converse County over the course of the past 12 months are approximately 30 percent lower than they were in the preceding 12 months.
and so much more in your Sunday morning newspaper The Glenrock Bird.
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Shop Your Local Grocer Glenrock Superfoods Savings Inside The Glenrock Bird and need to recoup this investment. According to the hospital representative: “We paid for her to get those patients and she has no right to take them. We have invested in Dr. Blanchard and if she leaves we have paid for our own competition.” The hospital works on a premise much like a bank. When a bank gives a loan they demand collateral. According to the hospital, the contract for non-compete is their collateral that they will recoup their investment. Dr. Blanchard has a patient base of approximately 3,500. Upon researching the financial aspects of a patient base this large the hospital probably just breaks even with regard to salary, staff
and the machinations of running a busy practice. It’s when these patients are admitted to the hospital for in-patient days that money is made, to the tune of many thousands of dollars per day. If even 20% of her patient load was admitted for care for one day at $1,000 a day (we are using $1,000 for purposes of this article, the true amount was unavailable to this reporter) the readers can do the math. Would the hospital actually lose in the long run if Blanchard ran her own private practice? If she paid for her own practice, yet still admitted to MHCC, would both parties benefit? Dr. Blanchard
The actual letter.
Community........................... Page 2-3 Weather Vane........................... Page 3 The Bird Herd.......................... Page 4 Business Directory.................. Page 5 Bird Classifieds........................ Page 5 News From The Nest................ Page 6 Police Beat............................... Page 6 Real Estate............................... Page 7 County & Beyond................. Page 8-9
Sunday, February 14th. Rather Cloudy & Breezy high 33 low 16
Weathervane – 3
HAPPY
Valentine’s Day!
Continued on Page 9
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GRANT ELEMENTARY: TWO WIND TURBINES ON-LINE BY MAY 15 by staff reporter Mark Dosa
During a meeting of Converse County School
Rusty Harris, President of Think1 in Bozeman, Montana, spoke about the selection of ITC, the installation at Grant Elementary, and the benefits to be enjoyed by the school and community.
AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY THANKS MIDDLE SCHOOL KIDS by staff reporter Mark Dosa
Regina Engstrom of the Glenrock American Legion Auxiliary is thankful for the efforts of the Glenrock Middle School’s FCCLA Club. Club members recently hand crafted more than 90 Valentine cards for Veterans in the Buffalo, Wyoming Veterans’ home. Karla Lee, FCCLA Coordinator at Glenrock Middle School explained, “FCCLA stands for Family Career and Community Leaders of America. The (kids who are members) develop leadership skills through service projects, building better communities
for tomorrow.” This is the third year the FCCLA kids at Glenrock Middle School have designed Valentine cards for the Veterans. Students hand craft each card individually, writing about themselves and creating their own Valentine verses. “This lets the Vets know they are appreciated,” Lee remarked. Congratulations to the 21 kids in the FCCLA, along with some other student volunteers, who help make our sometimes-lonely Veterans know that they are remembered, respected, and loved.
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DUKE ENERGY PRESENTS TOP OF THE WORLD PROJECT UPDATE by staff reporter Mark Dosa
At a regularly scheduled Town Council meeting on Monday, February 8, Duke Energy construction manager David Grogg updated the Council and those in attendance on the status of the Top of the World Project. Grogg has been employed by Duke Energy for over thirty years and has an extensive background in a variety of energy projects: nuclear, coal, hydroelectric, and wind. Grogg first apprised the Council of the exemplary safety record Duke has enjoyed during the project. “With 166 people on site, we have had just two injuries since November 1. Both injuries were minor first aid cases. One injury was a finger cut and the other was a finger laceration.”
Think1 is the design firm and School District consultant for the wind turbine project. “There were five bids,” Harris began. “ITC was the lowest bidder at $142,000. However, the decision (to choose ITC) was not just based on cost. Other things came into play.”
STOCK PHOTO - NOT ACTUAL TURBINES THAT WILL BE INSTALLED
Dart throwing. Some do it for fun, some do it for money. Six dart throwing experts who play out of Glenrock’s Shoreliner bar will be playing for both during the 25th Anniversary NDA International Team Dart Tournament in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Riviera Hotel and Casino will play host to the extravaganza. The event will take place between April 16 and 24, and a total of $500,000 (yep, a half-million bucks) will be up for grabs. Kevin Tate, Rhonda Bean, Harold Bean, Katie Dye, Tommy Tomlin,
and a gal named Cara have earned their way into the Las Vegas World Championship event due to their exceptional tournament play during the 2009 fall season.
A blue-sky grant will provide for $25,000 of the construction costs, with the balance coming out of the District’s general fund. Converse County School District #2 continues to lead the way in providing relevant and state-of-the-art real world technical equipment directly tied to student education and achievement. The new equipment will be the envy of school districts across the nation.
Last Tuesday night February 9th, The Glenrock Bird went to the Shoreliner to witness some winter league dart play. While not playing for money that night, those competing certainly had a boatload of fun. Rhonda Bean of Glenrock, one of the players going to Vegas, was teamed with Katie Rainey Tuesday night. They played against the duo of Dallas Halsey and his female
companion on Tuesday night at the Shoreliner. The competitors were serious but relaxed. On this evening, entertainment and competition were intertwined and equally as important. The duos cheered for their success as well as their competition. Rhonda and Katie Rainey could often be seen with hands raised above their heads, fingers displaying the “V” for victory sign after an exceptionally good throw.
As he continued, Grogg revealed that the Top of the World project is beginning to offer unexpected benefits. “A quarry was found right on the site. (The materials in the quarry) can be used for road building. This will reduce transportation costs. Local residents can also be helped with the material.”
E. Keith Ryder died just after midnight on Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at his home in Vernon, Arizona in the presence of his son and his daughter after a year-long battle with cancer. He was 72 years old. Keith was born Edward Keith Ryder on June 21, 1937 in Gordon, Sheridan County, Nebraska to the late Edward M. and Esther (McCormick) Ryder. He lived most of his childhood years in Douglas and Glenrock, Wyoming, Most of his early married days he lived in Montana, various towns in Wyoming and, Casper Wyoming. In 1977 he left the ranch and moved to Prescott, Arizona, then Marble Falls Texas, back to several places in Arizona where he eventually settled down for good in Vernon, Arizona. As a young man, he served in the U.S. Army Reserves. Keith retired from the Federal Government as a supervisory range conservationist. He graduated from Glenrock High School in Glenrock, Wyoming in 1956. On March 2,
1957 he married his High School Sweetheart, LaVonne Catherine Konrath. They were married 52 years until her death on December 28, 2008, He is survived by his 3 daughters, Rose Ryder of Billings MT; Tammy Dennison and her Keith Ryder husband Rick of Lakeside, Arizona; Glenda Henry and her husband Jack of Granite I'm Not Ready) He loved life Shoals, Texas; son, Edward and he lived it to the fullest. Ryder of Vernon, AZ; grandchildren: from Rose, Bridget Keith was a Believer, a Son, George of Billings Mt, Cody Brother, Husband, Dad, Uncle, Ryder and his wife Zara of Grandpa, Great Grandpa, Colorado Springs, Co where he Provider, Best Friend, Best is serving in the Army, from: Man, Friend to many, Tammy: Davylyn Dennison of University of Wyoming Lakeside Arizona, from Glenda: Graduate, a Leader, Boy Scout, Crystal Gumm, of Billings Mt, Royal Ranger Commander, a 4and her intended Kyle Caudle, H leader, Patriot, Service Man, Derek Waechter and his intend- Countryman, Cowboy, Rancher ed Michelle Suletemeier of in Casper, Wyoming, Business Elgin, Texas; great grandchil- Owner: Owned Ryder Cattle dren: from Crystal: Alexius, Company, R & R Contractors, Lailyn, Hunter, Kaidence and Extend-a-Bumper, Gumm and future daughter Julia Employer, Boss, Supervisor, Caudle. from Bridget: Peyton Marketer, Student of the Word, George. his sister Kay Haralson Teacher, Preacher, Pastor, an of Escondido CA Evangelist, a Rescuer, Public Speaker, Government Keith Ryder "Mr Wonderful" Employee, Range and the Navajos called him Conservationist, A Law (Haseinn Bahazohni). Enforcement Officer, Idea Man, a Wise man, a happy man, a First and foremost A Child of generous man, a fun man, a the King faithful man, an over the road Truck Driver, a Heavy His Mantra: (I'm prepared But
The Glenrock Bird
and ended with all of the players in good spirits. While a league game with points at stake, an injection of good humor seemed appropriate and made for an enjoyable evening. Come April, however, don’t expect the Shoreliner crew making their way to Vegas to be as light-hearted. A half-million bucks on the line will no doubt ensure that they compete with game faces firmly in place.
The match lasted about two hours
June 21, 1937 - February 3, 2010 Born: June 21, 1937 Born Again 1981. He went home to be with the Lord February 3, 2010
Sunday, February 14th, 2010
“Both units with gather and provide data to teachers and students in the classroom. Wind speed, turbine speed, and the amount of electricity produced by each turbine (will be available).” Teachers and students will be able use the supplied data to compare
E. KEITH RYDER
Keith Ryder
Further discussion revealed that in all likelihood there would be a business entity interested in repowering the facility when it reached obsolescence, which further reduced the concern about decommissioning
Harris was excited when discussing the educational prospects of the turbines.
OBITUARY
Grogg went on to state that Duke is sensitive to the local environment and is taking care not to impact the ecosystem. He further stated that negotiations are taking place regarding the use of county roads, and that Duke Energy would pay for any damage to roads it might inadvertently cause.
The Duke representative further reassured the Council that because the salvage value of the towers would be substantial when decommissioning takes place, there would also be an economic incentive, along with a legal requirement, to properly remove the equipment.
The larger, 3 bladed 10kw turbine will be installed on top of a hydraulic tilt down tower, which will allow the turbine to be lowered to the ground in a controlled manner for student education, turbine inspection, and repair. The smaller, 5kw vertical access turbine will also be easily accessible.
the turbines in terms of efficiency and best use in given situations. Additionally, residents with the appropriate software and District approval will be able to access the same information at home with their personal computer. Rocky Mountain Power will monitor data from the turbines as part of the grant, providing the company with valuable data for analysis.
by staff reporter Mark Dosa
The Duke Energy construction manager went on to reveal, “Thirty-one percent of our workforce are Wyoming residents, and ten percent are from Colorado. It’s great for the local community (when we) find (local) labor that meets our needs and we can keep them busy for a year or two.”
Grogg responded that there is a protocol related to wind farm decommissioning that must be followed, and that the document outlining the protocol contains detailed information about how the towers must be removed.
Harris continued. “ITC is committed to having the project completed on May 15. ITC is also well qualified, came with quality references, and knows their way around electrical work. The turbines
(ITC will use) also met our detailed specifications.” “ITC will be placing an order for the turbines in the next two weeks or so, and by our projections a foundation (will be poured) by mid April. Both turbines will be up and running on May 15, 2010,” Harris stated.
GLENROCK’S “SHORELINER LOUNGE” DART THROWERS IN VEGAS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Grogg went on to state, “Of the 166 employees on site, 63 live in Glenrock, and are getting a per diem (a daily monetary stipend) which is being plowed into the local community.”
Councilman Lembke asked Grogg about the possibility of the project becoming an eyesore after the wind farm has been decommissioned, which will inevitably happen.
District #2 board members on Tuesday, February 9, ITC Electrical Technologies in Casper was awarded a contract for the installation of two wind turbines on the Grant Elementary School site.
Equipment Operator, a Welder, a restorer of broken equipment, a Miner, Mechanic, A body Mechanic, Building mover, Inventor, (Caterpillar still sells an auger he invented) Member of the Sheriff's Posse in Wyoming, Member of the C.B. Club in Wyoming, Rancher, Planter, a Hunter, a kidder, a practical joker, a Nick Name giver, a musician, a vocalist, a guitar player, leader in a family band called the Roadrunners, a songwriter, Praise and Worship leader a Fisher of men, (But never of fish) and a darn hard worker. He loved wearing many different hats and took pride in wearing them well. All who knew him benefited from the outstanding human being that he was. He will be greatly missed. Farewell and thank you for the life-time of blessings you gave to all. Donations may be made in Keith Ryder's name to White Mountain Life Church at P.O. Box 2257, Show Low, Arizona 85902. A memorial service for Keith will be held 3:00 P.M., Saturday, February 13, 2010 at White Mountain Life Church, 451 N. 18th Place in Show Low, Arizona.
Page 2
SENATOR JIM ANDERSON PROMOTES CODE OF THE WEST
UPDATE ON GATEWAY TRANSMISSION PROJECT The Gateway West transmission project is a joint project between Rocky Mountain Power and Idaho Power to build, operate and maintain approximately 1,150 miles of new transmission lines across southern Wyoming and southern Idaho. The transmission lines are needed to provide electricity to meet increasing customer needs. According to Rocky Mountain Power representative Jeff Hymas, proposed and alternate power line routes for the Gateway West transmission project are currently being evaluated as part of the draft Environmental Impact Statement being prepared by the Bureau of Land Management, as required by the National Environmental Policy Act.
by staff reporter Mark Dosa
Glenrock’s Senator Jim Anderson has introduced legislation that if passed would make “The Code of the West” the official state code for Wyoming. The fate of Senate File SF 51, the legislation behind the code, is still pending. The legislation has been introduced into the Education Committee, as it relates to state symbols.
"Once the draft Environmental Impact Statement is issued in late summer 2010, there will be another formal 90-day public comment period. However, we welcome comments at any time" stated Hymas.
If adopted, the official Wyoming Code would read as follows:
The Code of The West 1. Live Each Day With Courage 2. Take Pride In Your Work 3. Always Finish What You Start
Senator Anderson stated that he felt the code was not only important but also appropriate, as Wyoming would be “Best regulated by inspiration rather than regulation”. The status of SF 51 will be reported in an upcoming issue of The Glenrock Bird.
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4. Do What Has To Be Done 5. Be Tough, But Fair 6. When You Make A Promise, Keep It 7. Ride For The Brand 8. Talk Less And Say More 9. Remember That Some Things Aren't For Sale 10. Know Where To Draw The Line
From 2008-2009, the project team hosted approximately 40 public meetings, in addition to participating in more than 150 formal and informal meetings at the request of stakeholders and interested parties. In total, we met with almost 2,000 landowners and residents along the corridor, had nearly 6,000 visitors to the project website and collected nearly 1,200 comments.
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More information about the Gateway West project, and the steps in the planning and permitting process, is available on the project Web site: www.gatewaywestproject.com.
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TOWN OF GLENROCK TO DESIGNATE FOUR LIMITED TIME PARKING SPACES
Breaking News & Weather Alerts
by staff reporter Mark Dosa
LOCAL CHURCH HAPPENINGS
During a regularly scheduled meeting on February 8, 2010, The Glenrock Town Council unanimously moved to designate four parking spaces as limited, two-hour spots.
by staff reporter Mark Dosa
The four spots are located in the downtown Glenrock parking lot bordered on the south side by Deer Creek Drugs, and on the north side by the Glenrock Independent building. Two of these spots will be located on the south side of the lot, with the other two on the north side. This change to the lot’s parking policy was accomplished by amending Town Ordinance No. 638, which addresses parking regulations.
Christ Episcopal Church Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper: Tuesday, 2/16, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. To be held at 415 West Cedar Street.
Two Wyoming state motor vehicle statutes, 31-5-501 and 31-5-502 were incorporated into Town Ordinance No. 638. These state statutes address restricted parking and penalties for parking violations.
ALL MONEY TAKEN IN WILL BE SENT TO AID THE RECOVERY EFFORTS IN HAITI
The parking spots will be clearly marked as restricted, 2-hour spaces. Vehicles parked beyond the 2-hour limit are in jeopardy of receiving a ticket bearing a fifty-dollar ($50.00) fine.
Community Baptist Biblical Finances Study: Tuesday, 2/16 at 7:00 p.m. To be held at 6 Frontier Court.
The town will have a public notice available for publication in local newspapers on March 11, 2010. The new rules stipulated in the amended ordinance would be in effect and enforceable 10 days after publication of the public notice.
Men’s Promise Keepers’ Breakfast: Thursday, 2/18 at 6:00 a.m. To be held at the Glenrock Breakfast House, 400 West Aspen.
The intent of the amended Town Ordinance is to limit abuse of parking in the lot. Area merchants feel that with four 2-hour spaces, customers will be able to more easily find an available parking space. Spots currently designated for handicap access only will remain unchanged.
Sunday, February 14th, 2010
Women’s Bible Study on Daniel: Thursday, 2/18 at 3:30 p.m. To be held at 533 South 5th Street.
The Glenrock Bird
Saint Louis Church
Catholic
Located at 5th and Fir Ash Wednesday Masses: Wednesday, 2/17 at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Way of the Cross: every Wednesday during Lent after the 7:00 p.m. Mass. Monthly Parish Potluck: Sunday, 2/21 at 5:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall. You are asked to please bring your potluck dishes and table service for your family. The Glenrock Bird would like to remind representatives from other churches that your special events and activities will be printed free of charge. Contact The Glenrock Bird at 298-5107 or editor@theglenrockbird.com for more information.
Page 3
Glenrock Rocks!
HERDER LADIES FIGHT INJURIES, SEARCH FOR “SWITCH” game is. Wrestling Coach Cory Yingling talks about being able to “turn on a switch” when on the mat, being able to summon up an aggressive, insatiable hunger that can be satisfied only with victory. A switch, that when turned on, turns an affable, good-natured athlete into a beast.
Lexie Blackburn, who is battling tendonitis in her right calf, sat the first half but gutted out playing in the second, scoring 4 points.
These Lady Herders are ladies indeed, courteous, polite… conjure up any positive adjective you can think of, and it could be applied to these girls.
The reliable as a Swiss watch Shelby Stewart, though scoring 19 points and pulling down 3 rebounds, seemed to have an off night (by her standards at least) despite her impressive numbers. Against Thermopolis, the Lady Herders couldn’t seem to catch a break. Countless shots were achingly close but just couldn’t make their way through the hoop, while Thermopolis seemed to be in a zone during the second half. These Herders are a talented, highly trained team with an exceptional array of athletes. A team that, when victorious, wins by an average of 18 ½ points. It is baffling, then when you look at their record over the last 8 games: 4 wins, 4 losses. Perhaps even more baffling is the pattern: W-L-W-L-W-L-W-L. Earlier in the year Assistant Coach Joe Dona mentioned how crucially important the mental side of the
The Lady Herders played Friday, February 12 at home against Wheatland and Saturday, February 13 away against Rawlins. Results will be reported in the next issue of The Glenrock Bird.
The Lady Herders are currently 10-8 with 6 games left before regional playoffs begin, and should be a team to be reckoned with come the playoffs. However, if they can find the switch and turn that sucker on, this will be a team to be feared. Against Thermopolis, Shelby Stewart led the way with 19 points and 3 rebounds. The Lady Herders shot 45 percent from beyond the 3-point arc but only 20 percent from two-point land. Free throw percentage was 44 percent, far below their exceptional season Shelby Stewart scores 3 points at home against Thermopolis. average. Photo © Mark Dosa
“This was a huge competition with over 500 students, each event having 90 to 100 students,” Anfinson stated. “It’s one of the biggest speech meets in the state. It’s the one meet where we see competitors from the western part of the state. The kids learn a lot from the other competitors; it’s a (definite) learning experience for them.” Normally, the team competes against schools from the eastern part of the state. At the Natrona meet, competitors from western Wyoming along with South Dakota were present.
“The kids were a bit overwhelmed and exhausted. They competed all day Friday until 10:30 p.m. and then started Saturday at 7:30 a.m.,” Anfinson remarked. After the meet, Lucey and Anfinson talked with the team about what they saw from their competition, what they took away from the event, and what they learned during the event. “They (the team) pointed out other competitors they thought did a good job and pieces (of poetry) they thought were well picked.” The coaches and team also discussed the effectiveness of their competitors’ facial and voice inflections. Britney Bartz, Alyssa Biffle, Preston Blakeley, Clarissa Bryner, Chanel Doherty, Nathin Hansen, and Clint Johnson all
Coach Cory Yingling’s wrestlers will head into the Regional Wrestling Tournament later this month on a high note.
participated. “Clint and Nathin got first in one round of the duet competition,” Anfinson noted. “Britney did really well in poetry, placing third or fourth in each round. Clarissa and Alyssa (both freshman) gained good experience, while Chanel and Preston both had the opportunity to speak during Student Congress.” Coach Anfinson noted that it’s good to have competition scheduled against Torrington on February 19 and 20, along with Buffalo on February 26 and 27. “The kids can take what they’ve learned (from the Natrona meet) and step it up now (as the team heads to state),”Anfinson indicated. The state meet will begin on March 11 and ends on March 13.
Kline, currently a varsity starter on the Lady Herder basketball team, received the scholarship for her talent as a golfer.
Since Glenrock High does not have a golf program, Kline has competed for the Douglas High team since her freshman year. Her high school career has been marked with success befitting a hard working athlete.
“My parents raised me to play golf,” Taylor responded when
Last year as a junior, Taylor was
ranked second in the conference but says she “Fell apart at the State Championships.” You’re in good company, Taylor. Most golf legends have come unglued during a major competition at some point during their career.
remarked Kline.
Kline’s senior season was much more to her liking. After being crowned conference champion, Taylor competed in the state championship, earning an outstanding third place.
Kline mentioned that the girl golfers she met were very cordial, and the college also has an exceptional nursing program. Taylor plans on studying for a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Taylor’s senior year has included other achievements of note. “This year is the first time I shot in the 80’s,” Kline revealed. “The first time was on Torrington’s course.” Taylor subsequently went on to break 80 four times as a senior. While getting scholarship offers from over twenty schools, Kline and her parents eventually narrowed the field down to five. After visiting all five campuses, Taylor reveals the choice was clear. “Dakota Wesleyan University (in Mitchell, South Dakota) offered more money than any of the other schools. Their scholarship would have been for $13,100 a year (every year for four years),”
Sunday, February 14th, 2010
Common stroke symptoms: -Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg especially on one side of the body -Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding -Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes -Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination -Sudden severe headache with no known cause
by staff reporter Mark Dosa
“We have re-established our
Taylor instead chose Northwestern Iowa. “The other schools were nice but Northwestern just stuck out. I could picture myself being there.”
Taylor also appreciates the Christian environment that is an integral part of the Northwestern experience. “Northwestern has mandatory chapel,” Kline enthused. She revealed that the college seemed most in tune with her Christian faith. With a potent golf swing and a current 4.0 G.P.A., Taylor Kline is thrilled with the scholarship Northwestern has offered. Northwestern, no doubt, is equally thrilled to receive a scholar-athlete with the skills, work ethic, and morals of Taylor Kline.
The Glenrock Bird
By Kathy Blair, PT, DPT
According to the National Stroke Association, two million brain cells die every minute during a stroke, making stroke a leading cause of long-term disability for adults and the third leading cause of death in the United States.
DEFENSE AND CHEMISTRY ON THE UPSWING FOR HERDER BOYS
by staff reporter Mark Dosa
asked how she became involved in the sport. “I’ve played since I was four years old.”
WHAT IS A STROKE? A stroke is a "brain attack" and occurs when there is an interruption in blood flow and oxygen to the brain.
Shannon Mairs claims victory at Yingling also revealed that his home last Thursday against his team has evolved to the point opponent from Cheyenne South. that in practice there is no Photo © Mark Dosa
LADY HERDER TAYLOR KLINE RECEIVES SCHOLARSHIP Multi-talented athlete and standout student Taylor Kline has accepted a scholarship offer from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa.
Regional play will take place on Friday, February 19, and Saturday, February 20 in Thermopolis.
Yingling described his team’s ascendancy on Friday, February 12. “Working hard, trying to get the fundamentals down. We turned the corner last night and we’re making good headway. We’re wrestling well now – we’ve become a team.”
Herder Coach Justin Kidneigh states, “The last three to four weeks we have been playing with more energy, and playing more under control. We still are struggling with shooting a little, and need to be more consistent in games.”
Leif Johanasson, Ex Phys Win City PT Do you know your risk of having a stroke?
In the competition against Cheyenne South, Troy Pinkerton won his match at 189 pounds, while Shannon Mairs was victorious in an exhibition match against Eric Fair.
The Herder Boys lost their away game on Saturday, February 6, at Thermopolis. However, the final score of 47 to 54 does little to hint at the improvement this team is making in their run for postseason success.
TIPS
longer the need for broad sweeping instruction on fundamentals. Instead, coaches and athletes are able to focus on specific elements that need improvement.
Against Thermopolis, Raider Nelson won his match at 130 pounds, while ever-improving freshman Lane Blakeley once again impressed his coaches, going the distance without getting pinned by a competitor Yingling believes is likely to be crowned state champ this year.
HERDER SPEECH TEAM COMPETES AGAINST HUGE FIELD by staff reporter Mark Dosa Herder Speech Coaches Pam Lucey and Kate Anfinson led their team of seven against a large number of competitors at Natrona County High School on Friday and Saturday, February 5 and 6.
by staff reporter Mark Dosa
On Thursday, February 11, Yingling’s warriors won both matches in their double dual meet against Thermopolis and Cheyenne South, beating Thermopolis 30 to 28 and coming out on top over Cheyenne South 36 to 24.
Maybe, just maybe, this team of exemplary human beings has, because of their innate goodness, trouble finding the “switch” Yingling speaks of. Trouble transforming into merciless valkyries on the court, becoming a team that plays clean but takes no prisoners.
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 WRESTLERS FINAL MEET BEFORE REGIONALS
by staff reporter Mark Dosa
On Saturday, February 6, the Lady Herders lost a home basketball game to a hot Thermopolis team by the score of 35 to 48. Injuries contributed to the loss. Minutes into the game, starter Taylor Kline suffered a high ankle sprain which left her on the sidelines for the balance of the contest.
P.T. HEALTH
defense,” Kidneigh continued. We went to man-on-man, and the kids know the tendencies of the (opposing players).” This would seem to make sense as the Herder team, along with their opponents, has athletes who’ve suited up since their freshman year. “Since Buffalo, nobody has scored over 60 points on us in the last four games. If you can hold a team to 50 to 55 points a game then you have a chance for a win,” Kidneigh revealed. (Since Buffalo, the Herders have won two games and lost two, with their average loss over that period coming by 8 ½ points. During this span, Torrington scored the most points against the Glenrock Boys, 55.) “We’re sitting on the cusp (of becoming a consistent winner),” Kidneigh emphasized. “There’s not a lot of room for mistakes, and no room for cheap turnovers.” With six games remaining before regional play begins, the Herder Boys continue to fight for the best seeding possible. In the loss against Thermopolis, the Herders shot 24 percent from beyond the 3-point arc and 41 percent from two-point land. The boys shot 86 percent from the free throw line. Kyle Farley led the way for the Herders with 17 points and 8 rebounds, with Dustin Worthington also in double digits with 11 points and 7 rebounds. Austin Smith kept the game close by scoring two of his three 3-point attempts in the fourth quarter. The Herders played an away game in Wheatland on Friday, February 12, and a home game against Rawlins on Saturday, February 13. Results of these games will be posted in the next issue of The Glenrock Bird.
If you think someone might be having or have had a stroke, follow the F.A.S.T. method for recognizing and responding to stroke symptoms: F=Face Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop? A=Arms Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift down? S=Speech Have the person repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred or does it sound different? T=Time Damage to the brain is acting quickly, you should too. Call 911 immediately if you observe any of these signs. HOW DO YOU PREVENT A STROKE? Ask your doctor what your blood pressure is (ideal is 120/80mmHg or less), what your cholesterol levels are (ideal is less than 200mg/dL for total, less than 100mg/dL LDL, and greater than 40mg/dL HDL), and if you have blood circulation problems and/or atrial fibrillation. Also, make sure to exercise regularly (moderate intensity 20-30 minutes most days of the week), stop smoking, only drink alcohol in moderation, consume a low salt and low fat diet, control your blood sugars if you are diabetic, and know and understand the symptoms of a stroke. Contact Kathy Blair at Wind City Physical Therapy - 235-3910 for more information.
Glenrock School Lunches Monday, February Monday, February 15 NO SCHOOL Tuesday, February 16 Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich - All Wednesday, February 17 Mac & Cheese/Fish Sticks - All Thursday, February 18 Roast Beef & Cheddar Sandwich - All Friday, February 19 Bean Burrito - Grant, IMS Sack Lunch - HS
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY
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.
HELP THY NEIGHBOR when tragedy does strike; from a fire to a hurricane to the breaking of a dike. We'll help you all we can and that is true.
He lost his place from a ragin' fire. Weren't no more posts; just burned up wire. His neighbor lost two cows and the old barn too!! There weren't no grass to feed his stock; and the price of hay was quite a shock. Buy hay and feed is what he had to do.
For those who sit upon their arse and beg for others help; expecting help for nothing. I've no use for such a whelp; for those who think it's owed it makes me blue.
With new fence and hay he near went broke. New house and barn; near had a stroke. The loss of everything sure made him blue.
To work and earn is the righteous way. When bills are owed; then one must pay. But when tragedy strikes; it's help from me and you.
His neighbors come one by one; from the mornin' hours 'til the setting sun. They helped him build it all; to the last danged screw.
Time's the mother of invention; we don't need no government intervention. We only need folks to be like they used to be without intention. So grab up your tools; to help a neighbor's, the only thing to do.
In ag we help our neighbors out
The Night Hawk VALENTINE SPECIAL
Night Hawk Bird Columnist Susan R. Stoltz
CHECK OUT THE GLENROCK BIRD BROADCAST www.TheGlenrockBird.com
Tune in Sunday Morning at 9am on www.theglenrockbird.com and Monday Mornings at 9:35 a.m. on KOLT COUNTRY 103.7.
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
LIKE NAILING JELLO TO A TREE I think about love probably more than most. I could quote one of a thousand authors that have written on the subject, as diverse in style as Shakespeare is to Erma Bombeck. Certainly I have nothing profound to add.
CHECK OUT THE
Glenrock's Classic Cafe located at 201 S. 4th serving lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday 11am - 8:30pm - 307-436-2244
Love is responsible for some of our strongest human emotions and it makes people do crazy mixed up things! How many movies, books and television shows are wrapped around true stories of crimes of passion, rejection and revenge? Many of us have our own stories we could add to the mix. I know I do! I think as a society we have an unrealistic view of what love and relationships really necessitate. There are those bent on forcing the one they ‘love’ to become someone that they cannot be. Others have a genuine affection and respect for each other, although it seems that these relationships are becoming more a thing of the past in our world of instant gratification.
GLENROCK BIRD
BROADCAST Tune in Sunday Morning at 9am on www.theglenrockbird.com and Monday Mornings at 9:35 a.m. on KOLT COUNTRY 103.7.
Relationships
take
acceptance, forgiveness, humor and a basic kindness that I think we have forgotten about in our completely selfabsorbed modern lifestyle. People should 'behave' as if they loved one another. Television sitcoms routinely portray a stupid husband who can’t do anything right and a sarcastic wife who knocks him down verbally at every opportunity. What sort of relationship is that? But our children watch these shows and we wonder why 50% of marriages don’t last. Sarcasm, bitterness and nastiness bespeak of something other than love. It’s taken me a lifetime to realize that love isn’t completely self-serving. People come in ‘package’ deals. You get the good with the bad. You get the wonderful aspects in a person along with the ones you’d rather not deal with. It’s for you to decide if the qualities you find desirable outweigh the ones you don’t because, frankly, trying to change someone is like nailing Jell-O to a tree.
work,
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To Place a Classified Ad Call: 298-5107
NOTICE The Glenrock Bird has MOVED! We are now happily located in the Bronco Building at 506 W. Birch! Come on by and see our new digs! ................................ Jason's Friends Feb 27th - see ad this page
BUSINESSES NOW OPEN IN GLENROCK! ................................
THE BRAHMA BULL WESTERN HOME DECOR POPCORN SHIRTS, SCARVES EATHER PURSES INCREDIBLE JEWELERY SELECTION CANDLES & MUCH MUCH MORE! NEW HOURS AS OF NOV 1 Tuesday-Friday 11-6 pm and Sat 11a-2pm
HELP WANTED The Glenrock Senior Center is currently accepting applications for a Part-Time Assistant Cook. Previous experience preparing food in large quantities and knowledge of the Wyoming Food Safety Rule is preferred. Apply in person at the Glenrock Senior Center. For additional information, please call 4369442.
GOV. FREUDENTHAL OUTLINES PROPOSALS TO LEVEL PLAYING FIELD FOR WIND ENERGY GENERATION LAND
FOR SALE
Very nice 6742 sf lot on Sunup Ridge - Very nice and very quiet new neighborhood. Ready to build. - Asking $18K OBO.
NOW $15K!!
editor@theglenrockbird.com 298-5107 ................................
FOR SALE El Nita sewing machine, $100, Twister exercise machine, $35, Fast Track exercise machine, $45, Exercise tapes, $5 each call 797-0097 ................................ Pair of brand new black lucchese womens cowboy boots. Size 7.5/8 GORGEOUS! Call 298-5107. $60.00
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED RIGHT HERE FOR *FREE!!! *for items $100 or less ................................ CHEEP! CLASSIFIEDS IN THE BIRD! WE CAN SELL YOUR STUFF! PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED FOR *FREE!!! CALL NOW! 298-5107
News From The Nest BARASSO SUPPORTS SHUTTING DOWN CIVILIAN TRIALS FOR 9/11 TERRORISTS Today, Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) cosponsored Senator Lindsey Graham’s bipartisan bill that would cut off funding for the trials of the 9/11 conspirators in civilian court. Senator Barrasso delivered the following statement at a press conference regarding the legislation: “The Administration’s decision to try the 9/11 terrorists in civilian court is beyond irresponsible. These people are at war against the United States and our values. They deserve a military judge and jury, not a soap box and a megaphone. “The American people understand that the master-
minds of 9/11 are not your average street criminals – and they don’t want them in their back yards. They are the worst of the worst and should not receive the same protections as U.S. citizens. “A civilian trial would allow our enemies around the world to hear classified intelligence which could endanger more American lives. Military tribunals would ensure that our intelligence, tactics, techniques and procedures remain secret. “Yesterday, when the President discussed America’s staggering $1.6 trillion deficit, he encouraged Congress to suggest
additional ways to save government money. If he was truly serious about this request, he will support this bill. This President inherited
Gov. Dave Freudenthal continues to advocate that the Wyoming Legislature pass four bills to level the playing field for wind energy generators operating in Wyoming, addressing two of those bills during his State of the State address Monday morning. Noting the generous federal subsidies for wind energy production and the fact that other producers do pay taxes to offset their local impacts, Freudenthal said: “They are not entitled to a free ride. This is the first opportunity that this state has had in my lifetime to actually diversify its tax base.” The Governor challenged Legislators to stand with their constituents when voting on a proposed $3 per megawatt-hour tax on wind energy. Freudenthal: “At the end of the day, the decision you are confronting is, are you going to end up siding with the former Vice President [Al Gore] and his movie, or are you going to side with the County Commissioners in this state,
the people who need the money, the people who are dealing with the impact? And are you going to side with future generations who are entitled to have the opportunity – the opportunity – to live in this state, in a tax environment such as we have today? I would encourage you to think very hard before you reject this proposal.” Freudenthal explained how eminent domain authority can be abused in negotiating land routes for power transmission lines: “When they [wind producers] say to you, ‘Well, we don’t use eminent domain,’ the truth is, we have not used a nuclear bomb in this country since World War II. But the existence of the nuclear bomb has colored every discussion about international and national security. The same is true with regard to eminent domain. The fact that it is not used does not mean it is not a part of the conversation.”
a state of the art, safe and secure venue to house and prosecute the 9-11 conspirators. He should use it.”
BARASSO CRITICIZES ADMINISTRATION FOR NEGLECTING AMERICAS PRIORITIES Once again the Administration is taking its eye off the ball.
WASHINGTON, DC – During an interview on Fox News last week, Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) criticized the Security and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) new requirement that companies disclose the impacts of climate change on their businesses. The following are excerpts from the program:
missed Bernie Madoff. “It’s not a good use of their time and resources. Once again the Administration is taking its eye off the ball. “We ought to be talking about jobs, the economy and national security. The Securities and Exchange Commission is supposed to protect investors. They’re the people that completely
Sunday, February 14th, 2010
“This was a party line vote. The Democrats said, ‘Yeah, companies, tell the American people what effect climate change may have on your bottom line’ I mean, imagine a year ago, telling all the companies to explain what the impact, say a health care bill, will have on their bottom line.
“The CIA now has set up a whole section to look at climate change. They’ve taken their eye off where they ought to be focusing on national security. And now the SEC is taking its eye off the ball and it’s looking at climate change. I think they’re way off base.”
The Glenrock Bird
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CIAO! HELLO IN ITALIAN OR TEXTING LONGO (YOU HAVE YOUR CHOISE) FROM THE LIBRARY
IT’S VALENTINE’S DAY!
by Glenrock Librarian Rita Heath Read Me A Story for February 13- – February 20 is Valentine Bears by Eve Bunting. Pick up the phone this week and listen to a story for a change! Call 436-2353. 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. Our Foundation Board is hard at work raising the money to meet the Wyoming Public Libraries Endowment Challenge from the State Legislature. Their new venture is through AVON. A percentage of sales will be donated to the endowment. The Avon representative is Leah Sebesta from Douglas. Sales will run through February 26, come in and get more information or get on line to Avon, using Leah’s name and use the code:CONVERSELIBRARY.
CANDLELIGHT CANDY CARDS CHOCOLATE COUPLE
CUPID DIAMONDS FLOWERS HEARTS LOVE
ROMANTIC ROSES SATIN SWEETHEART VALENTINE Center. The deadline to submit applications is February 28, 2010.
We will be closed Monday for the Presidents Holiday, February 15. We will resume regular hours on Tuesday.
Happy Birthday this week to Anne Danaher, Louise Hammersmark, Harold Hammersmark, & Hazel Bonar. Be sure to stop in anytime this month for a free lunch courtesy of Deer Creek Drug. Please contact the Center if you would like your birthday or anniversary added to our list.
I was sitting here thinking of how language has changed through the years. Webster must be smiling in his grave as he takes note of how our language has evolved from his first dictionary properly named, A Compendious Dictionary of the English Language which was published in 1806.
The Glenrock Senior Center will be closed Monday February 15, 2010 for Presidents Day. LIEAP (Energy Assistance Program) applications are available at the Glenrock Senior
Kraig Barthlama, PTA will be here on February 23, 2010 at 10:00AM to give a presentation about Tai Chi, which is used as an exercise by persons for relaxation, balance and health. If you are interested in attending Kraig's presentation, please call stop in to sign-up. January Commodities are available for pickup. This month's Commodities are frozen blueberries, walnut pieces, milk, & oats. The Commodity Program is not limited to senior citizens. If you would like more information about the Commodity program, or to see if you qualify, please contact Nancie Fink at 436-9442
After his death in 1843 the copyright was purchased by his brothers, George and Charles Merriam. With years of dedication, we now can attribute a reference point to seek out new words. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary can in fact be found online with its 470,000 entries. I have to admit, I find myself a little overwhelmed! After mastering the English language, with a little bit of Spanish thrown in for good measure, now I have to try to stumble my way through text lingo, one of our newest ways to converse. Kids are experts in this form of dialect! Oh well, better to join them. So, hpEvalentine’s frm d lib! (translated: Happy Valentine’s Day From the library!)
Deadline for Advertisers & Submissions: 4pm every Thursday.
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PO Box 1207 - 506 West Birch Street - Glenrock, Wy 82637 e-mail: info@theglenrockbird.com 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
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Jessica Smith - Senior Staff Reporter/Photographer Mark Dosa - Sports and General News Writer Susan Stoltz - Staff Reporter Rebecca Thomas and Carl Codner - Exemplary Folders Abbott and Costello - Fabulous Delivery Drivers Simon - Bird Mascot Brenda Beaugareau - Girl Friday
298-5107 Sunday, February 14th, 2010
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HOST AN EXCHANGE STUDENT FROM THE NETHERLANDS Jannik, a 16 year old, plays interested in hosting this boy the guitar, cooks and loves soccer. He describes himself as athletic, humorous, familyoriented and nice. If you are
News from the Wyoming Department of Health
KID CARE CHIP CLIENT INFORMATION EXPOSED ONLINE The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) announced today an error has lead to potential online exposure of personal information provided by clients and applicants of the Wyoming Kid Care CHIP program. WDH Information Technology was notified Thursday that personal information of Kid Care clients was improperly appearing in Google search results. Thirty seconds upon receiving the call, Information Technology shut
down the web site involved. The files that were being searched by the search engine have also been removed from the web site. “I want to make it crystal clear that NO health record information was compromised by this error,” said Dr. Brent Sherard, Wyoming Department of Health director and state health officer. “However, personal information such as address information and children’s social security numbers provided by clients and
applicants of the Wyoming Kid Care CHIP program may have been exposed.” Lee Clabots, Wyoming Department of Health deputy director for administration, said “We are still investigating exactly what happened and do not yet have all the answers. However, we do know the problem was not caused by intentional wrongdoing.” WDH
provided
automated
recorded calls to about 5,000 affected families this afternoon with an initial notice about the situation. Each family will also be receiving detailed letters in the coming days. The department is contracting with Debix, an identity protection service, to offer free help to affected families. “This company’s services will offer additional security to families to help ensure the children’s information is not stolen or improperly used,”
Clabots said. Affected families will be asked to contact Debix at 877-676-0371 beginning Saturday morning. Sherard said, “While we believe at this point the potential harm was minimal, this is a situation we are taking very seriously. My staff is working diligently to ensure this does not happen again.”
by staff reporter Mark Dosa
During a conversation with The Glenrock Bird on Wednesday, February 9, Micheli (pronounced “Michael – Eye) spoke about his roots and experience, along with his position on issues and qualifications for governor. Born in Ft. Bridger, Micheli attended Wyoming schools and graduated from the University of Wyoming in 1970. In 1976, at the relatively young age of 28, the father of eight began his tenure with the Wyoming House of Representatives. During his sixteen-years in the House, Micheli held a number of key positions, including Majority Floor Leader, Speaker Pro Tempore, and Majority Whip. After service in the House, the grandfather of twenty-one spent
eight years as the Wyoming Director of Agriculture. Micheli became acutely aware of key environmental and regulatory issues, and served as President of the Western Association of State Departments of Agriculture, along with chairing a number of key national and state task forces. The former state legislator stated that creating a business friendly environment unimpeded with unneeded regulations is crucial. Micheli believes that government needs to “get out of the way and let the private sector work”. Micheli is a firm believer in the preservation of the personal freedoms Wyomingites enjoy, and is a proponent of the Wyoming Firearms Freedom Act. He also believes that, “We need our state government to push back on the intrusion of the federal government in our lives.” The gubernatorial candidate is proud of the fact that he has a “sixteen-year voting record to protect the value of life.” He also
supports the sanctity of marriage, revealing, “Studies have shown that the best environment to raise kids is one with a mother and father.” Micheli wants Wyoming to become as fiscally responsible as possible. “Most people may not be aware of this, but Wyoming has over the last six years experienced the largest growth in state government; more than any other state. This is not sustainable.” The Hereford and Angus rancher continued. “Our state budget has tripled over the last seven years. It’s important that we get control of our fiscal budget. There is a misconception here in Wyoming that we have not experienced this growth of state government. This is troubling. We really need to get it under control.” Micheli expresses confidence in the expertise of local school districts, and feels that care needs to be taken not to lose control at the local level. The gubernatorial candidate believes that “each
Additionally, Micheli revealed, “Our number one export is unfortunately educated children. (Many times) to find a job they have to leave the state, (often) to find jobs in the hi-tech community.” Micheli believes that a more wired, connected Ron Micheli. Wyoming would be better able to prevent this brain drain. “A Wall approach to accomplishing this, Street Broker recently relocated and states that issues involving to Wyoming. He can do his job development need to be looked at here with hi-tech hook-ups.” on a case by case basis. Micheli is concerned about keeping doctors in Wyoming, and suggests tort reform and getting liability insurance for medical practitioners under control are key issues.
SPECIAL OLYMPICS EXPERIENCE SUCCESS AT CASPER WINTER GAMES
Trevor Deming, Andy Galacia, Tyler George, Shonda Haefele, Ashley Richards, Dalton Sarton, Mercedes Sarton, Krysta Jean Widdoss, and Sarah Widdoss all made their way to chilly and snowy Casper Mountain eager to compete. Coaches Rhonda Burks, Sherrie Koval, Michele Leman, George Meyer, Nancy Meyer, Cecil Moon, and Dan Palumbo were present to provide inspiration and moral support.
Andy Galacia, Medal, 50 Snowshoeing
Bronze meter
Dalton Sarton, Medal, 100 Snowshoeing
Bronze meter
Mercedes Sarton, Bronze Douglas Special Olympians Tyler George, Dalton Sarton, Mercedes Sarton, Andy Galacia, Ashley Medal, 25 meter Richards, Krysta Jean Widdoss, Sarah Widdoss, and Shonda Haefele. Photo © Mark Dosa Snowshoeing
TOURISM BOARD ADJUSTS TO CHANGES IN OCCUPANCY, LODGING TAX REVENUE
Head Coach George Meyer indicated in a telephone call from Jackson Hole on the morning of Thursday, February 11, that his athletes were experiencing success there as well, already having won a number of medals.
Converse County, Wyoming — Lodging tax revenues in Converse County over the course of the past 12 months are approximately 30 percent lower than they were in the preceding 12 months.
Results of the Jackson Hole meet will be reported in the next issue of The Glenrock Bird.
Of the nine athletes competing, seven medaled: Shonda Haefele, Gold Medal, 25 meter Snowshoeing Ashley Richards, Gold Medal, 25 meter Snowshoeing Ashley Richards, Gold Medal, 50 meter Snowshoeing Krysta Jean Widdoss, Gold Medal, 25 meter Snowshoeing Tyler George, Silver Medal, 50 meter Snowshoeing
Applications for this position can be picked up at the Town Hall, 219 S. Third St., or off the town's website at www.glenrock.org.
The gubernatorial candidate believes that while he is up against a tough field of opponents, his private sector and legislative and executive branch experience would prove valuable commodities for governorship. He also is confident that his proven leadership abilities and commitment to traditional family values are qualities that merit attention. Ron Micheli brings an impressive resume and record of public service in his quest to become our next governor. With field-tested success as a legislator, state executive, rancher, and businessman, Ron Micheli is definitely a candidate to be reckoned with.
Magazine, Trains Magazine and in the Wyoming Traveler’s Journal. Our historic trails, the Wyoming Pioneer Museum, the Paleon Museum in Glenrock, Fort Fetterman, Ayre’s Natural Bridge, the historic trains display at the Douglas Visitor’s and Railroad Interpretive Center, modern coal trains at work, the Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo and our beautiful scenery, are among the county’s assets being promoted.
by staff reporter Mark Dosa On Saturday, January 6, nine Douglas athletes competed in the area III and V Special Olympic Winter games in Casper. (Glenrock Special Olympians will compete in the upcoming summer games.)
The Glenrock Town Council approved Resolution 201006 declaring a council vacancy.
If you have questions please contact Donna M. Geho, 436.9294, Ext. 310.
district has special traits and attributes” and feels state intervention has the potential to “disengage parents at the local level.”
The former Wyoming Director of Agriculture feels maintaining a balance between development and the free, open spaces, which make Wyoming uniquely appealing, is crucial. Micheli believes there is no ‘cookie cutter’
PUBLIC NOTICE
All interested parties must submit an application by 5:00 P.M., February 22, 2010.
GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATE AND LONG TIME PUBLIC SERVANT RON MICHELI Ron Micheli is a native Wyomingite, 4th generation Ft. Bridger rancher, and long-time public servant. He is also a Republican candidate for governor.
or another student please contact Suzanne Sandoval 2190 or ssandoval@wmcnet.org
Meeting in Douglas on Jan. 24, members of the Converse County Tourism Board discussed a shift in the manner in which they’ll carry out their programs in the year ahead. Above: Douglas athlete Dalton Sarton is helped back to the starting line after his snowshoe came undone. Dalton later went on to win a Bronze Medal in the 100 meter snowshoeing event. Photo © Mark Dosa
Left: Douglas Special Olympian Tyler George lights the Olympic flame to begin the Casper Winter
“Just over a year ago,” said Converse County Tourism Board Chairman Sue McBride, “our motel rooms and campgrounds were frequently occupied at or near capacity. We at the Tourism Board were focusing our attention on encouraging those staying in the area for work to spend the weekend with us. We wanted their families to come for the weekend and enjoy all our county has to offer.”
McBride says a 30 percent reduction in lodging tax revenues is indicative of lighter occupancy at the county’s hotels, motels, and campgrounds. “With that change has come a change in our focus,” says McBride. “The Tourism Board is focusing on those events that will encourage additional overnight stays and longer-term stays in our communities.” The lower revenues began with the February 2009 deposits, which reflect December 2008 lodging tax collections. As part of the current advertising plan, McBride says the Board has redesigned its website, located at www.conversecountytourism.com <http://www.conversecountytourism.com> , and focused attention on areas believed to be key opportunities to promote visits to the county. In recent weeks, Converse County promotional ads have appeared in True West
In addition to advertising the county, the Tourism Board also partners with non-profit organizations to promote events, activities, and sites in the county. “We’ve notified our partner groups,” says McBride, “of our increased focus on true tourism. We’ll be assigning higher funding priority to those grant applications that have the greatest potential to increase overnight stays at the county’s hotels, motels, and campgrounds. We don’t want to discourage applicants, but to encourage a focus on our mutual goals.” The Converse County Tourism Board accepts and considers grant applications on a monthly basis. Eligible non-profits are encouraged to submit their grant by the first day of the month in which they’d like it to be considered. Additional information on submitting a grant can be obtained at your local chamber office, on the website, or by calling Jennifer Womack at 307351-0730. Funding for the Tourism Board is provided by the optional three percent lodging tax paid by overnight visitors to the county. The tax, which is up for renewal every four years, will appear on the General Election ballot this year.
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The Glenrock Bird
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BLANCHARD VS. MHCC - Continued from Page 1 would undoubtedly make more money than her hospital contract dictates, and the hospital would still reap the benefits of her admits without the cost of supporting her practice. At the time of this publication Dr. Blanchard has resigned her medical staff privileges at MHCC. According to the county records pertaining to MHCC, there is no breakdown of salaries or income. There was, however, an interesting fact; physician salaries account for only 12.32% of the hospital’s overall budget. There are thirteen physicians under contract with MHCC. And further, just what, exactly is the investment MHCC has made in Dr. Blanchard? We will need to wait for formal discovery to find out if they paid a headhunter to
recruit and how much. Did they pay moving costs and a signing bonus? These facts were unavailable at the time of this publication. The missing piece of information for this reporter was why, when offered the highest salary at the hospital would Dr. Blanchard want to leave? According to her attorney, Patrick Crank, “Dr. Blanchard resigned her position at the hospital due to their implementation of centralized scheduling. She felt it was responsible to bring up the issue regarding the validity of the non-compete before she spent the time, money and effort to open a private practice of her own.” Crank further explained that the non-compete covenant is poorly
drafted and non-applicable. Arguing that the term “Shall not engage in a competing business” in actuality doesn’t apply, as a private practice would not compete with the hospital. Private practice docs would still refer patients to MHCC for in-patient care and services such as radiology where they make the bulk of their income. It is also Crank's opinion that a non-compete dramatically interferes with patients’rights to choose a physician and continuity of care. As to the issue of centralized scheduling the hospital made this comment: With the implementation of our updated computer system, Meditech, Memorial Hospital of Converse County will be able to use a Centralized Scheduling system in the physician offices. To be clear, a Centralized Scheduling system simply allows a person seeking
EQUAL RIGHTS SHOULD ALSO APPLY TO COOL TEAM NAMES
Generally speaking, competition is based on the desire to win — and instilling fear in one’s competitor is key to victory. This is why so many sports teams have intimidating team names — Vikings, Lions, Tigers, Giants and so on. Saratoga High School athletes are Panthers. Green River high school athletes are
The comment above is all well tors. In any case, it can’t be good for a young Gillette lady’s ego to be known statewide as a camel. Even more to be pitied are the Glenrock Lady Herders, or the Big Piney Lady Punchers — either of which seems to endorse domestic abuse. It’s got to be tough for the audience applauding a bunch of Lady Punchers.
by Doug Hecox Over the weekend, Carbon County School District 2 invited me to perform at their winter inservice in Saratoga. They couldn’t have been nicer and, to my delight, they laughed at the appropriate times. We disagreed on very little, and all agreed that Wyoming’s many high school mascots need some help.
an appointment with their provider to call one number. The receptionist answering the call will have access to all of the provider’s schedules. You will be able to tell the receptionist who you would like to make an appointment with and they will schedule it. If, for some reason, you are not able to see your primary provider as soon as you would like to, the receptionist will be able to tell you who is available sooner. You can then choose to schedule an appointment with the provider of your choice. We are not choosing a provider for you. A Centralized Scheduling system is used by many healthcare facilities in the state and across the nation. We are merely improving patient access to our providers. We foresee this system going into effect mid 2010.
Wolves. Cheyenne Central athletes are the Indians. Rawlins is home to a prison, so naming the high school mascot after an Outlaw seems very apropos. Of course, whenever I wear Outlaw gear — from tennis to football — non-Wyomingites all Doug Hecox. seem to wonder why I want to outlaw this sport or that. “Why has the Lady Outlaws, Saratoga do you want to outlaw tennis?” has Lady Panthers and Green River has Lady Wolves. The girls’ teams throughout Wyoming’s high school system Laramie High School has Lady are the real victims. Somewhere, Plainsmen, which is a wonderful back in the centuries past, some- piece of gender confusion, while one figured it was just easier to the Campbell County High put the word “Lady” in front of School in Gillette has the Lady whatever each school’s team Camels — a feminine salute mascot is. This is why Rawlins either to smoking or chiroprac-
With the Super Bowl coming up this weekend, the issue of mascot nomenclature seems all the more relevant. After all, there was a time when it was very easy to predict the winner based on whichever team had the more violent-sounding team name. For example, last year’s Super Bowl winners were named for big angry steelworkers — not the red songbirds who lost. The previous year, the New York Giants — a team named for Goliath, or the gigantic guy who tried to stomp on “Magic” Jack of Beanstalk fame — crushed the Patriots, a team named for good
and good, but upon investigation into this type of scheduling, if a patient has an emergency such as a child with an ear infection they have two choices, see one of the physicians with an available appointment or go to the emergency room. Centralized scheduling makes it possible for the hospital to distribute patient load according to availability rather than popularity. By its very nature the physicians that have built up a strong and busy practice would now have to ‘share’ their work load with physicians that have more time in their schedules. It was unclear as to whether physicians would be allowed to dictate how many patients they see in a day or whether they would be informed that one of their regular patients sought an appointment in an already full schedule. In all fairness, this reporter was not prepared to address this issue in this article until it was brought to the fore that Dr. Blanchard was resigning due to its implementation. This reporter did try to get back in touch with the hospital represencitizenship. Thankfully, they no longer wear Buster Brown on their helmets. Team names are what make it is so difficult to predict the outcome of this year’s Super Bowl. The team from Indiana is named for a baby horse, and the one from New Orleans for pious Bible-toting robewearers. With such namby-pamby names unlikely to instill fear in either team, it seems pretty obvious that the Super Bowl this year will end in a tie. If the baby horse accidentally hurts him, a Saint will — at worst — forgive him. Not much of a physical contest there. Our concern must, therefore, be with the names given to Wyoming’s girl high school teams. I’m a fan of Lady Outlaws, but would agree that renaming them the “Surprise Tax Audits” or something equally intimidating could help them next season. Similarly, Laramie’s Lady Plainsmen might be a little
tative for comment and was unable to re-connect. The MHCC rep did inform that she would be out of town until Tuesday; it was not a deliberate effort to avoid the issue. CEO Thomas Nordwick was also unavailable until next week. I think in all fairness the hospital should be allowed to comment on these two very important aspects of centralized scheduling. Dr. Sherri Blanchard does a great job. She is also the Public Health Officer, works extensively with Hospice and is a very active member of the community. The hospital has done a terrific job implementing technology and maintaining financial viability in a nation where many hospitals are going belly-up. They employ many hundreds of people in Converse County. It’s important that free enterprise and big business work hand in hand for the betterment of a community and in the best interest of its constituents. It will be interesting to see how this difficult problem is ultimately resolved.
more fearsome if called the “Root Canals” or the “Ann Coulters.” Glenrock and Big Piney should, obviously, rename their girls’ teams the “Mankillers” or the “Manpunchers,” respectively. Considering that the majority of Wyomingites are men, those are very good fear-inspiring names. And if schools get mascots, shouldn’t school districts get them too? Carbon County School District 2 could call itself the “Deuces,” the “DoubleTroubles” or something equally two-based. On the other hand, Carbon County School District 1 should call itself the “Cyclopses” — because Rawlins just has one “i.” Play ball. Doug Hecox is a comedian and writer from Rawlins. Visit him online at www.dougfun.com or on Facebook.
JASON’S FRIENDS FOUNDATION HELPS KIDS WITH CANCER by staff reporter Mark Dosa The Jason’s Friends Foundation is an incredible organization founded after a terrible tragedy. The foundation’s namesake, Jason Eades, was a brave young Wyomingite who succumbed to a brain stem tumor. Jason was nine years old when he passed away, battling bravely for eleven painful months before falling victim to the dreaded disease. Friends of Jason’s mother, Lisa Eades, created the foundation. Eventually, Eades became very active in the organization, and now spends most of each day advocating for the Wyoming children and families who must deal with childhood cancer. Eades is focused on two goals: raising funds for the organization, and raising awareness of what the organization has to offer. Eades explained. “This foundation is strictly for Wyoming families (with children suffering from cancer). Except for one part-time office manager, it is an all-volunteer organization. We have very little overhead – 95
percent of every dollar contributed goes directly to providing assistance.” The assistance provided is substantial. According to Eades, during the last year sixty-five families were given financial assistance. The extent of the assistance varies depending on need. While some families might require financial aid with meals and lodging while traveling back and forth from the hospital, others may need more substantial relief. Some families who have had to dramatically alter their lifestyle in order to be with their sick child have been provided with funds for mortgage payments, car payments, food, and electrical bills; close to anything necessary to help the families “maintain their current standard of living,” according to Eades. Eades revealed “While we helped 65 families last year, there were many other families we could have helped had we been
made aware of their situation.” This is why Eades works every day striving to get the word out about the organization and what it has to offer. For the last eleven years, the Foundation has held a bowling fundraiser. This year, the Twelfth annual event will take place at El Mark-O Lanes in Casper on Saturday, February 27. The event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with over $25,000 in donated prizes to be given away. Each year, close to one thousand participants enjoy the event, and
last year over $200,000 was raised by the foundation. This organization is essential to Wyoming families in need and extremely efficient in the use of donated funds. Individuals and business entities making contributions can rest assured that their money is being wisely spent. Information about the Twelfth Annual Bowl for Jason’s Friends and the Foundation can be obtained by calling 307-2353421, or by visiting the foundation’s website at www.jasonsfriends.com.
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STEVE LINDLY RECEIVES STARFISH THROWER AWARD On February 8, 2010, Steve Lindly, Wyoming Department of Corrections (WDOC) Deputy Director, was presented a Wyoming Starfish Thrower award by the Wyoming Department of Health, Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. He was nominated by WDOC Director Bob Lampert in the "public servant" category. Mr. Lindly's was one of ten awards presented. In the nomination, Mr. Lampert said that, "There are few, if any,
public employees in the state of Wyoming who have worked as hard and as long or as effectively on issues regarding substance abuse treatment and prevention as has Steve Lindly. It is therefore my privilege to nominate him for a Starfish Thrower Award."
treated in Wyoming. Steve's leadership at the Wyoming Department of Corrections has been a crucial element in changing the view of policy makers and the public about the importance of treating substance abuse among the offender population."
At the presentation at Little America in Cheyenne, Rodger McDaniel said, "Steve is a leader in promoting, developing, and successfully implementing several key changes in the way substance abuse and addiction is
Mr. Lindly is currently the deputy director of the WDOC, a post he's held for six years. He has served on multiple boards, committees and national organizations in the area of corrections including the Governor's
Sunday, February 14th, 2010
Advisory Board on Substance Abuse and Violent Crime. He also has served as chair of the Wyoming Drug Court Panel. The award is based on the story by Loren Eiseley called "The Starfish Thrower" in which a young boy is caught throwing back into the sea many starfish that have washed ashore. When told that there are more starfish on the shore than he can ever save, the boy, as he tosses yet one more into the sea, says, "I made a difference to that one."
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Sunday, February 14th, 2010
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