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NOVEMBER 15, 2024|
Photo – Water department crew watches water running from pipe – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The Wyoming Water Development Commission has given the City of Rawlins $2.8 million to repair its aging water transmission line.
On Wednesday, November 13th, members of the Wyoming Water Development Commission and the Select Water Committee met in Casper to discuss funding requests. More than 40 municipalities were asking for money to pay for various water-related projects.
Rawlins officials were on hand Wednesday to request $2.8 million to rehabilitate the 30 miles of pipeline that brings water from the Sage Creek Springs to the water treatment plant.
Before the city could ask for funding, Wyoming Water Development Office Project Manager George Moser reviewed the recently completed water master plan. Moser said the plan shows that Rawlins should focus on repairing the blow-off valves on its aging water transmission line.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114448/1115_Rawlins-Water-Line-1.mp3Moser explained that the master plan also identified three other high priority projects, including completing rehabilitation efforts at the Sage Creek Springs, replacing a high-pressure line running into the city, and installing new water storage tanks. However, the project manager recommended giving the transmission line repairs the highest priority.
Moser said the water master plan estimates the cost of fixing all four high priority projects at $27 million. Including the work the city is already doing. Moser said the price tag could be as high as $30 million to make the system fully operational again.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114452/1115_Rawlins-Water-Line-2.mp3Moser said depending on the types of grants the city receives, he expects Rawlins’ water customers will need to pay an additional $14 to $25 a month to cover the cost of repairs.
The Wyoming Water Development Commission board voted to accept the water master plan.
Later in the meeting, Rawlins officials sat down with the commission board to request $2.835 million for valve replacement on the city’s water transmission line. Wyoming Water Development Office Director Jason Mead explained that he believes the transmission line can be saved if new valves are installed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114455/1115_Rawlins-Water-Line-3.mp3Rawlins City Manager Tom Sarvey explained how water collected from the Sage Creek Springs travels through 30 miles of cement coated steel pipe before reaching the city. Sarvey said the transmission line was not properly maintained in the past and several safety valves were not replaced.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114457/1115_Rawlins-Water-Line-4.mp3Sarvey said in the spring of 2022, city officials discovered that the water enterprise fund did not contain enough money for the necessary repairs, prompting the city to increase water rates by 60% in November of that year. After seeing the results of the recently completed water master plan, Sarvey said water rates were raised by another 80%.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114459/1115_Rawlins-Water-Line-5.mp3In total, the city has raised water rates 140% since November of 2022. Sarvey said the increased fees have helped the city build enough cash reserves to start repair projects. The city is asking the Wyoming Water Development Commission for $2.8 million to use as a 50% grant match to replace 95 valves along the transmission line.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114502/1115_Rawlins-Water-Line-6.mp3Water Development Commissioner Larry Suchor of Pinedale asked about cathodic protection on the transmission line. Steel buried underground or submerged in water will quickly erode unless a sacrificial anode made from zinc or magnesium is attached to the metal. Using a low electrical current, the anode corrodes instead of the steel.
Rawlins City Engineer Karl Smith said he believes that the transmission line is in such poor condition due, in part, to insufficient cathodic protection. The new plan will use a more effective style of corrosion resistance.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114506/1115_Rawlins-Water-Line-7.mp3Deep anode beds are installed in deeper soil layers with consistent electrical properties, ensuring more reliable and effective protection from corrosion. City Engineer Smith said he expects the deep anode beds will offer 50 more years of cathodic protection to the transmission line.
The Wyoming Water Development Commission voted to grant the city of Rawlins $2.835 million for its transmission line rehabilitation project.
The post WWDC Grants City of Rawlins $2.8 Million For Repairs first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 15, 2024|
Photo – Ballot computers – Bigfoot99 file photo
County officials have confirmed the accuracy of Carbon County’s election results and explained what happened in Weston County.
During Tuesday’s Board of County Commissioners meeting, County Clerk, and newly elected commissioner, Gwynn Bartlett provided an update on last week’s election. Clerk Bartlett said roughly 200 fewer residents voted this year compared to 2020. However, the county clerk said the number was higher than the election from two years ago.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114508/1115_Election-Recap-1.mp3Clerk Bartlett said roughly 1,000 people throughout the county registered to vote on election day. The clerk stressed that the voter turnout exceeding 100% was due to same-day registrants and not fraud.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114511/1115_Election-Recap-2.mp3Clerk Barlett said her office received about 2,000 absentee ballots before election day.
Next, the county clerk discussed the election controversy in Weston County. Clerk Bartlett explained that Weston County used an outside company to print their ballots. An error with the first two sets of printed ballots caused Weston County Clerk Becky Hadlock to mistakenly send three different versions of the county’s election ballots to voters.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114513/1115_Election-Recap-3.mp3Clerk Bartlett said voters filled in the bubbles next to their chosen candidates and placed their ballots in the counting machines. However, the candidate positions were different between the three sets of ballots. The machines, programmed for the final set, miscounted the votes from the first two ballots. Clerk Bartlett emphasized that the error was due to the Weston County clerk, not the counting machines.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114516/1115_Election-Recap-4.mp3On Friday, November 8th, Weston County officials hand counted the election ballots. Weston County officials posted the corrected election results, showing that House District One Representative Chip Neiman, who was running unopposed, received 1,102 more votes than initially counted.
The newly hand-counted ballots also showed that the Weston County Commissioners race was off by a few hundred votes.
Back at Tuesday’s Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Clerk Bartlett said the machines were not at fault and a hand count isn’t necessary for future elections. Commissioner John Johnson agreed, saying that a hand count opens the door for increased human error.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/15114518/1115_Election-Recap-5.mp3Clerk Bartlett thanked everyone who helped make Carbon County’s election run smoothly, specifically the 80 volunteer poll workers and judges.
The post County Clerk Explains Weston County Election Snafu first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 15, 2024|
Photo – UW Athletics logo – Bigfoot99 file image
Tonight’s Border War, for at least another decade, will be played in Fort Collins.
The Colorado State University (CSU) Rams and the University of Wyoming Cowboys have agreed to continue their long-standing football rivalry, known as the Border War, even though CSU intends to leave the Mountain West Conference join the Pac-12 Conference in 2026.
According to recent announcements, the two schools have signed a contract to play each other through 2035, with CSU hosting the game in even years and Wyoming hosting in odd years. This agreement ensures the continuation of the Border War, one of the oldest and most storied rivalries in college football, dating back to 1899.
The rivalry has been a staple in the schedules for both schools, with the teams playing each other almost every year since 1946, except for a brief World War II hiatus. The Border War has been a significant part of both programs’ identities, and the agreement to continue the series is a testament to the enduring spirit of competition and tradition between the two schools
The rivalry was not played in 1943, 1944 or 1945, during World War II.
The rivalry is one of the most storied in all of college football. Only 65 miles and a state line separates the two schools…and a whole lot of pride.
According to the record book, tonight’s Border War matchup is the 116th meeting between the two universities. It will take place at Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins, Colorado.
The newly contracted series between the two rivals will start in 2028 and be played at Fort Collins. The 2029 game will move to Laramie. The schools are working on amendments for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
The traveling trophy, known as the Bronze Boot, an Army-issue boot worn in Viet Nam by CSU ROTC instructor Dan Romero, became a prominent feature of the game in 1968. Tonight’s Border War game will be the 57th time where the Bronze Boot has been claimed by the game’s winner.
Bigfoot 99 will have the radio broadcast of the game beginning with the pregame show at 4:30 this afternoon. Kickoff is set for six.
The post Border War Will Happen For At Least One More Decade first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 14, 2024|
Photo – Senator John Barrasso – Bigfoot99 file photo
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso was elected to the No. 2 leadership role in the United States Senate on Wednesday. Barrasso received the honor from fellow senators who elected Barrasso to Majority Whip as Republicans prepare to take a majority leadership role in January.
“I want to thank the people of Wyoming for their support and for allowing me to continue serving our state in the United States Senate,” Barrasso said in a press release. “I want to thank my Republican colleagues for their confidence and their vote today. It is my honor to serve them as assistant majority leader.”
Barrasso was reelected in Wyoming earlier this year by landslide margins in both the primary and general elections.
Barrasso had been the chair of the Senate Republican Conference, the No. 3 role, since 2018.
The post Wyoming Senator Elected To Number Two Position In Senate first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 14, 2024|
Photo – Old building at Medicine Bow Airport – Bigfoot99 file photo
In the Town of Medicine Bow, the airport Board has requested that the town council save resources for the preservation of the town’s historic airfield.
In August, Colorado pilot Nathan Finneman addressed the Medicine Bow town council about the significance of the town’s airport, located roughly one mile southeast of town. Finneman explained that the Medicine Bow airport features the best-preserved airmail directional arrow and outbuildings in the western United States. The pilot urged the Medicine Bow town council to protect the historically important site while they still can.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14092949/1114_Med-Bow-Airport-1.mp3The Medicine Bow airport, officially known as Site 32, was an important marker on the airmail route between Salt Lake City, Utah and Omaha, Nebraska and is listed on the National Park Service’s Register of Historic Places.
In September, Finneman and eight other pilots brought their small planes and paragliders to Medicine Bow to attend the Water Stop Jamboree.
Some of the pilots spent the night at the airport before taking off again in the morning. Since then, the same pilots have continued to use the airfield.
After hearing Finneman’s presentation, the council agreed to form a new Airport Advisory Board to oversee the restoration and preservation of the historic airfield. On October 15th, the town began accepting letters of interest from residents willing to serve on the airport board.
During Tuesday’s Medicine Bow town council meeting, Mayor Justin George announced that he received three letters of interest. However, the mayor is required to wait until November 15th before opening them.
Following that announcement, Public Works Director Brian Lashley, who is spearheading the formation of the airport board, asked the council how much they’re willing to commit, financially, to maintain the airfield.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14092952/1114_Med-Bow-Airport-2.mp3Mayor George agreed that the airport is worth saving, saying that the airfield has the potential to draw tourists to the small town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14092954/1114_Med-Bow-Airport-3.mp3Clerk Treasurer Karen Heath informed the council that grants exist to restore the historic airport. However, the town will be entirely financially responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and operation of the airfield.
Mayor George instructed Public Works Director Lashley to consult with airports of a similar size and prepare an operational cost estimate for a future town council meeting. The council will decide on the town’s involvement with the airport after reviewing the estimate.
The post Medicine Bow Council Discuss Airport Future first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 14, 2024|
Photo – Hanna Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
Work on the Hanna town hall roof is expected to begin next week.
In September, the governing body in Hanna agreed to pay $115,948 in impact assistance funds to have a peaked roof installed on the town hall building. The 44-year-old structure is on its second flat roof, which leaks in several locations.
During a special meeting called by the Hanna town council on August 29th, the governing body discussed the state of the town hall roof. Mayor Jayson Nordquist explained that under ideal circumstances, a flat roof will last a maximum of 20 years before needing to be replaced.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14092956/1114_Hanna-Town-Hall-Roof-1.mp3Pete’s Builders Commercial and Residential Roofing in Cheyenne quoted the town $39,000 for a replacement flat roof. Mayor Nordquist said a peaked roof can last roughly three times as long as a flat roof and was worth the higher price tag. The mayor recommended taking the nearly $116,000 peaked roof bid from Highland Roofing instead.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14092958/1114_Hanna-Town-Hall-Roof-2.mp3In the end, the governing body voted to accept the quote from Highland Roofing.
Fast forward to Tuesday’s Hanna town council meeting. Mayor Nordquist said Highland Roofing is asking to add an additional $39,399 to the cost of the town hall roof replacement project. The mayor explained that a representative from the roofing company discovered the original town hall roof was still in place beneath the newer roof. The increased cost would have Highland Roofing remove the old material before installing the peaked roof. However, Mayor Nordquist said that removing the old roof isn’t necessary.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14093000/1114_Hanna-Town-Hall-Roof-3.mp3Mayor Nordquist said for an additional $39,399 on top of the quoted price of $115,948, Highland Roofing will restore the top of the town hall to its original condition before installing the new peaked roof. The mayor recommended denying the extra cost.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14093003/1114_Hanna-Town-Hall-Roof-4.mp3Councilman Bill Dys asked if they should postpone a vote until Highland Roofing can confirm that the town hall building does not need additional repairs before the peaked roof can be installed. Mayor Nordquist clarified that the quote only covers the removal of the old flat roof. If further issues are discovered by the roofing company, a new quote for those repairs will be submitted.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14093006/1114_Hanna-Town-Hall-Roof-5.mp3The council was simply discussing the Highland Roofing estimate, and no vote was needed.
Mayor Nordquist said the roofing company has already ordered the parts for the job and is waiting for delivery. Work is expected to begin Wednesday, November 20th.
The post Work Begins Next Week On Hanna Town Hall Roof first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 14, 2024|
Photo – Wyoming State Trails Program logo – Courtesy Wyoming State Trails website
The Carbon County Treasurer’s Office will no longer sell off-road vehicle and snowmobile permit stickers.
Every year, outdoor enthusiasts must purchase a permit sticker from the Wyoming State Trails Program for their off-road vehicles and snowmobiles. Sticker sales help fund the maintenance and development of the state’s trail systems. The decals cost $15 for residents and $35 for non-residents.
Traditionally, the trail stickers could be purchased from local vendors, such as the Carbon County Treasurers Office in Rawlins. During Tuesday’s Board of County Commissioners meeting, Treasurer Lindsey West said beginning on January 1st, all Wyoming State Trails Program stickers must be purchased through the organization’s website. Local vendors will simply act as pick up locations for the permits.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14093008/1114_ORV-Sticker-1.mp3Treasurer West said the Wyoming State Trails Program website can be difficult to navigate, requiring the creation of an account before a sticker can be purchased.
Because the state is removing vendors’ ability to physically distribute ORV and snowmobile stickers, West said her office will stop participating in the program. Permit stickers purchased online can be delivered directly to customers’ homes or picked up at a location outside of Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14093010/1114_ORV-Sticker-2.mp3Treasurer West said the county barely broke even on the physical sale of the off-road vehicle and snowmobile permit stickers. For the sake of her staff, West said she is no longer partnering with the Wyoming State Trails Program.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14093012/1114_ORV-Sticker-3.mp3Treasurer West said her office receives $1 for every physical sticker sold. Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones agreed with West’s decision and said she is willing to reconsider selling the ORV and snowmobile stickers if the Wyoming State Trails Program offers to share more of its profits with the county.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14093015/1114_ORV-Sticker-4.mp3The board of county commissioners expressed their support for Treasurer West’s decision to end the partnership with the Wyoming State Trails Program.
The Carbon County Treasurer’s Office was the only sticker vendor in Rawlins. However, seven other vendor locations remain in the county. Snowmobile and ORV permit stickers purchased online can be picked up at the following locations: the Cowboy Inn in Baggs, the Olde Trading Post in Encampment, JB’s Stop-N-Shop in Medicine Bow, the Country Store and Shively Hardware in Saratoga, the Ten Mile Inn north of Saratoga, and Rendezvous Creekside in Ryan Park.
The post Treasurer’s Office No Longer Selling ORV Stickers first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 14, 2024|
Photo – UW Athletics logo – Bigfoot99 file image
The bitter rivalry between Wyoming and Colorado State is bone-deep, true and time-tested.
In 2010, Colorado State stopped counting the first Border War in its official history of games between the schools.
CSU professors may have been scrubbed from the game, from their official history book, like some Orwellian mind trick. In Wyoming history, though, the first Border remains a bitterly contested defeat.
It occurred on Thanksgiving Day 1899. November 30th was the date.
College football was new and not as well-organized as we know it today. Wyoming and Colorado each offered its own official to serve as a referee.
The Aggies proffered Professor E.B. House as its official. The kindly professor endured the insults and curses of Wyoming players to every unfriendly call he flagged.
The Fort Collins Express reported that Wyoming fans surrounded the professor waving canes and yelling, “Kill! Kill!, Kill!”
Yes, that’s right. It resembled the jailhouse scene from Arlo Guthrie’s Thanksgiving song, “Alice’s Restaurant.”
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14093017/1114_Arlo-Guthrie.mp3Currently, CSU recognizes there was an attempt to play a football game with Wyoming in 1899, but it was a forfeit and does not count in the record.
Wyoming, on the other hand, still counts the game and holds it with a deep, hostile memory that serves as bitter fodder every year. Mascots have been stolen, fields have been scarred with school letters burned into the grass, and one of the greatest rivalries lives on into its third century.
Saturday’s matchup will be played out in Fort Collins.
The annual Bronze Boot Run takes place this morning with University of Wyoming ROTC detachment running the game ball to the state border on U.S. Highway 287 where ROTC members from CSU will complete run to CSU following a short ceremony at the summit on the state line.
The 116th Edition of the Border War game between the two rivals will be played Friday, November 15th at 6 p.m. Mountain Time at Colorado State’s Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins. Bigfoot 99 will have the radio broadcast beginning with the pregame show starting at 4:30.
The post 116th Boarder War Festivities Begin Today first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 14, 2024|
Photo – UW Athletics logo – Bigfoot99 file image
Wyoming basketball: The Cowboys met their match at Texas Tech Wednesday night, falling 96-49.
The Red Raiders dominated both halves. They held the Pokes to 26 percent from the field in the first half.
UW head coach Sundance Wicks pointed to the Wyoming turnover, saying the defeat was a team loss. The Red Raiders gained 40 points off Cowboy turnovers.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/14093019/1114_Sundance-Wicks-1.mp3Texas Tech shot 64 percent from the field and 56 percent from behind the arc.
Wyoming was led in scoring by guard Obi Agbim with 15 points marking his third-straight game in double-figures.
The Cowboys return to the Arena-Auditorium on Saturday hosting Utah Tech in a 7 p.m. start.
The post Pokes Fall While At Texas Tech first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 13, 2024|
Photo – MHCC – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Carbon County voters, north of Interstate 80, last week narrowly defeated the formation of a special taxpayer district that would help fund Memorial Hospital of Carbon County. While changes to the way the facility operates are needed, hospital officials say the Rawlins clinic is not in danger of shutting down.
The Board of Carbon County commissioners voted in August to add the creation of a hospital district to November’s general election ballot. At the time, Memorial Hospital board members said the district, which would impose a 3-mill property tax levy on residents, was expected to bring an additional $1.5 million to the cash strapped facility. The money would be earmarked for building maintenance and equipment purchases. Without the added funding source, the hospital board said the future of the medical center is in jeopardy.
Memorial Hospital officials began an intensive public education campaign. Staff held informational meetings in Rawlins, Sinclair, and Hanna to explain the purpose of the hospital district and the financial impact the additional tax would have on residents.
Despite the best efforts put forth by hospital officials, residents living in the proposed district boundary voted 1,759 to 1,670 against the measure. A difference of only 89 votes.
With the election behind them, Memorial Hospital staff must decide how to move forward without the additional revenue source. MHCC Chief Operating Officer Stephanie Hinkle told Bigfoot99 that the close vote shows that residents care about the fate of the Rawlins facility. Hinkle said more public education may have swayed the election in the hospital’s favor.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100735/1113_MHCC-1.mp3Hospital staff have scheduled an after-action meeting today to discuss the results of last week’s election results and formulate a plan for the future of the medical facility.
Hinkle said similar initiatives to the hospital district typically utilize expensive marketing firms to spread the word. Instead, she and other hospital officials ran a grassroots campaign at no cost to the medical center. Hinkle said to expect to see the hospital district again on a future ballot.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100738/1113_MHCC-2.mp3Hinkle said she will review the data collected during the hospital district campaign to identify ways to improve communication efforts. One topic of discussion will be finding ways to increase attendance at the informational meetings. Hinkle stressed that attending in-person meetings is crucial for obtaining accurate information.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100741/1113_MHCC-3.mp3Hinkle said face-to-face conversations were essential for convincing residents of the need for the hospital district. What happens next, now that the measure has failed? Hinkle said Memorial Hospital is not closing. However, hospital officials must find ways to cut overhead at the facility.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100743/1113_MHCC-4.mp3The hospital is not facing a doom-and-gloom scenario. Hinkle said the medical center continues to collect unpaid medical bills. Since partnering with the Aurora, Colorado medical billing agency Revenue Enterprises in June, Hinkle said patient collections have increased by over 2,500%.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100746/1113_MHCC-5.mp3Additionally, the hospital will welcome a new general surgeon at the beginning of December. Hinkle said surgeries generate substantial revenue. With Dr. Singleton on board, Memorial Hospital can offer surgical procedures to patients once again.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100748/1113_MHCC-6.mp3Hinkle said Memorial Hospital staff are also working on ways to improve communication with the public, especially people of Hispanic descent. The chief operating officer said residents may be unaware that MHCC offers an online patient portal to help people access their medical records.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100750/1113_MHCC-7.mp3Without the additional funding from the healthcare district, Memorial Hospital staff must be very careful with the facility’s finances. Hinkle said the hospital’s board of trustees will weigh the cost of services against the potential benefit to the community. The hospital can no longer waste money on medical services that do not generate money, said Hinkle.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100752/1113_MHCC-8.mp3On the November ballot, voters were also asked to select a five-person board to run the hospital district, if the measure passed. Hinkle said some residents are unsure about when the new board’s term begins. Because the measure was struck down, the existing Memorial Hospital board of trustees, who were appointed by the county commissioners, will continue to oversee the medical center.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100755/1113_MHCC-9.mp3Hinkle reiterated that Memorial Hospital of Carbon County will not go out of business because the healthcare district didn’t pass. The medical center will investigate ways to reduce costs and increase revenue. The administration will pursue a taxpayer funded hospital district in the future. Until then, Hinkle said she will continue working to educate the public about the importance of the Rawlins hospital.
The post MHCC Looks At Backup Plan After Proposed District Fails At Polls first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 13, 2024|
Photo – Deputies pose with items from chase – Courtesy CCSO
A wanted fugitive led deputies from the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office on a chase near Saratoga on Sunday.
Sheriff Alex Bakken issued a social media post on Monday evening detailing the incident. Sheriff Bakken wrote that on the afternoon of November 10th, a wanted suspect led deputies on a vehicle and foot pursuit through southern Carbon County.
To elude capture, the unidentified suspect fled along several county and Forest Service roads outside Saratoga. Deputies were eventually able to safely take the subject into custody. No one was injured in the incident.
Sheriff Bakken wrote that the suspect received a “seven-foot-long” citation before being apprehended. The suspect’s alleged crimes include: felon in possession of a firearm, felony possession of methamphetamine, fleeing and eluding, interference with a peace officer, and numerous other offenses.
In a written statement, the sheriff stated that all suspects are innocent until proven guilty and that the identity of the accused will remain undisclosed until he or she is seen in court.
Sheriff Bakken thanked his deputies, dispatchers, and partners at the Saratoga Police Department for apprehending the suspect.
Bigfoot99 reached out to Sheriff Bakken for more information about Sunday’s police pursuit. As of the reporting of this story, the sheriff has not responded to our inquiry.
The post Fugitive Arrested After Pursuit Near Saratoga first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 13, 2024|
Photo – City Manager Tom Sarvey (left) and Public Works Director Cody Dill (right)- Courtesy City of Rawlins
The Rawlins Public Works Director has received a Wyoming Water Quality and Pollution Control Association award.
During the November 5th Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Tom Sarvey announced that Public Works Director Cody Dill received the award.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100757/1113_Water-Award-1.mp3Dill was presented with the 2024 George Michael Award last month during the Wyoming Water Quality and Pollution Control Association conference in Casper. WWQ and PCA Media Director Victor Spencer explained that the organization is made up entirely of water and wastewater operators. Every year, the association holds an educational conference to allow the operators to retain their licenses and certifications.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100759/1113_Water-Award-2.mp3Beyond the training, the annual conference also offers attendees the added benefit of networking with other operators. Spencer said those connections are invaluable for solving problems and issues in their industry.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100801/1113_Water-Award-3.mp3Every year, the Wyoming Water Quality and Pollution Control Association recognizes a water or wastewater operator who goes above and beyond in their duties. Spencer explained that the George Michael Award, created in 2012, is named after the former Green River wastewater treatment manager.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100805/1113_Water-Award-4.mp3Spencer said the Wyoming Water Quality and Pollution Control Association rarely nominates operators for the George Michael Award. The nominations typically come from the person’s co-workers or outside agencies, such as the Wyoming Association of Rural Water Systems.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100808/1113_Water-Award-5.mp3This year, the Wyoming Water Quality and Pollution Control Association presented the George Michael Award to Rawlins Public Works Director Cody Dill. During the November 5th city council meeting, Dill thanked his crew for helping him win the award.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/13100810/1113_Water-Award-6.mp3City Manager Sarvey said that all Rawlins staff are hardworking and worthy of recognition.
Last year, Rawlins Water Treatment Operator Carly Brown and Water and Wastewater Supervisor Stevie Osborn were commended during the annual WWQ and PCA conference. Brown was appointed president of the organization and Osborn was presented with the Dr. Robert L. Champlin award for exemplary service in water treatment.
The post Rawlins Public Works Director Earns Award first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 13, 2024|
Photo – UW Athletics logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
For the Wyoming Cowboy basketball team, the new boss squares off against the old boss tonight in Lubbock, Texas.
Wyoming head basketball coach Sundance Wicks leads the 2-0 Cowboys against Texas Tech University, where former Cowboy head coach Jeff Linder is an assistant.
Linder fled Laramie at the end of last season after the Cowboys finished in eighth place with an 8-10 conference record and 15-17 overall record. In 2022, the Cowboys went 9 of 22 and held down the bottom of the standings in the Mountain West.
Outgoing transfers from the Cowboys last spring were more numerous than the number of flights out of Laramie. In March of last year, the writing was clear. Alex Taylor at Wyo Sports wrote in mid-March, “With six players making the decision to transfer out of the program, fans have started to question Linder’s future in Laramie. Is Linder’s job at UW safe, and should it be?”
The mass exodus of six players from Laramie, including three from California, was a clear sign that trouble was brewing.
Linder’s style of “tough love” coaching worked with a few, but not with most.
Linder had come to Laramie after three consecutive 20-win seasons in his first four years at the University of Northern Colorado. He took over the Cowboys and went 39-20 in his first two seasons. Then the magic carpet ran out of magic. After going to the NCAA tournament in his first year, the magic dried up. Blame it on the coronavirus.
Now the Cowboys head coach, Wicks, joined the staff when Linder was hired in 2020. When the wheels came off in Laramie, Wicks spent a year as head coach at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.
Upon his arrival back in Laramie this spring, Wicks went into overdrive to recruit players to fix the mess left by Linder when he left for Lubbock.
They will meet again tonight at United Supermarkets Arena in Lubbock. Wicks said this week of Linder, “I just love him. He’s the reason why I’m here.”
UW is 2-0 after beating Concordia-St. Paul (108-85) and Tennessee State (81-66) at home. The Red Raiders are also 2-and-0. Linder’s job is now drawing up the X’s and O’s for the Texas Tech offense.
It should be a good matchup tonight. Five different Texas Tech players are averaging double figures in scoring, led by forward JT Toppin (22.0 ppg), who transferred from New Mexico after earning co-MW freshman of the year honors last season.
UW’s defensive game plan will have to be air-tight to beat Linder and the Red Raiders, who are receiving votes in the Associated Press poll, after two lopsided wins over smaller schools.
Tipoff is set for six p.m. tonight. Bigfoot 99 will be on the air at 5:30 with the pregame show.
The post New Basketball Coach Takes On Old Coach In Tonight’s Game first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 12, 2024|
Photo – SPD patch – Bigfoot99 file photo
In an effort to be safe, rather than sorry, Saratoga governing body voted last week spend $1,000 for police officer active shooter training.
During the November 5th Saratoga town council meeting, Police Lieutenant John Moore said he was contacted by representatives from Carbon County Child Development and TAC*ONE Consulting requesting active shooter drills at local preschools.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095253/1112_Shooter-Training-1.mp3Lieutenant Moore explained that the training will be similar to the shooter drills conducted last spring at Carbon County School District Two schools.
Moore said TAC*ONE Consulting Instructor Joe Deedon is requesting $1,000 to provide the town’s five police officers with individual active shooter response training.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095256/1112_Shooter-Training-2.mp3Lieutenant Moore told the governing body that the Lone Wolf Training is normally $299 per person. By charging a flat fee of $1,000 to train all five police officers, Deedon is saving the town $495.
The town council unanimously voted to use $1,000 from the Saratoga Police Department’s annual training budget to cover the cost of the TAC*ONE course.
No date was provided for when the active shooter drills will occur.
The post Saratoga Police Enroll In Active Shooter Training first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 12, 2024|
Photo – Fake warrant – Courtesy CCSO
The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office warns residents about a fake warrant scam.
Last week, Sherrif Alex Bakken issued a community alert about fake warrants. Sheriff Bakken wrote that an unspecified number of Carbon County residents were receiving calls or texts from local numbers stating that they had an outstanding warrant issued by the Wyoming district court. A picture of the fake warrant would then be texted to the potential victim and the scammer would demand money.
Sheriff Bakken provided a picture of one of the fake warrants and pointed out signs that prove the document is fraudulent, such as a made-up case number, incorrect wording, and grammatical errors.
Sheriff Bakken wrote that his deputies will never text people a picture of the warrant. The document will always be served in-person. Additionally, deputies will never demand payment over the phone or via email.
Sherriff Bakken reiterated that the fake warrants are a scam. The sheriff advised residents not to pay or even engage with the callers. The sheriff’s department will never call and ask for money over the phone. If you have a warrant, deputies will simply arrest you, not call and ask for a payment.
The sheriff suggested visiting the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office, located at 1302 Daley Street in Rawlins, or calling 324-2776 if you suspect you may have a warrant.
The post Recent Scam In Area Wants Victims To Pay On Arrest Warrant first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 12, 2024|
Photo – Property tax image – Bigfoot99 file photo
One week ago on Election Day, Wyoming voters approved Constitutional Amendment A, that could potentially lower residential property taxes.
The measure passed statewide with 146,300 votes for and 100,375 opposed. Here in Carbon County, 3,470 voters cast their ballots for the amendment, with 2,362 against.
The COVID pandemic caused a surge in home values and a growing demand for housing in Wyoming as residents from other states fled to the Cowboy State, which took a more relaxed approach to the politically generated hysteria. The real-world result to the hysteria was rising home prices and increased property tax values, with some homeowners seeing their taxes double over the past four years.
Currently, Wyoming has three property tax classifications: mineral production; industrial; and all others, which includes residential and commercial real property. Wyoming residential and commercial properties are taxed at the same 9.5% rate. In order to exclusively lower residential property taxes, a constitutional amendment is needed.
In early 2023, Democratic state representative Mike Yin, from Jackson, proposed Constitutional Amendment A to create a fourth property tax classification, specifically targeting residential real property. Speaking to Bigfoot99 last month, Carbon County Assessor Renee Snider explained that the amendment, now passed, will allow state lawmakers to adjust residential and commercial property taxes independently.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095304/1112_Amendment-1.mp3The amendment only applies to owner occupied primary residences, and does not cover second homes, rental properties, or vacation homes.
How the state lawmakers intend to use their new power remains unclear. Will the legislature lower residential property taxes? A provision of the constitutional amendment states that lawmakers are not permitted to reduce taxes by more than 2 percentage points.
A proposed bill to set the tax rate for owner occupied primary residences at 8.3% died in committee earlier this year.
Most Wyoming voters supported Constitutional Amendment A. However, counties and municipalities rely on property tax revenue, which makes up a substantial portion of their yearly budgets. Statewide, nearly 73% of collected property taxes are allocated to education, 17.5% to county governments, and 1.8% to municipalities. By lowering the tax rate, the state may force local governments to limit services or lay off employees. Here in Carbon County, approximately 16%, or $7.4 million, of the previous fiscal year’s budget was made up of residential property taxes.
If property taxes are lowered under the constitutional amendment, the state legislature must decide how to cover the lost revenue. Some lawmakers have suggested increasing commercial property taxes to shore up local budgets. However, raising commercial property taxes may make Wyoming less attractive to new businesses and cause existing companies to relocate to less expensive states.
The state legislature has yet to schedule a date to discuss adjusting property tax rates.
The post Wyoming Voters Approve Property Tax Amendment first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 12, 2024|
Photo – Emergency Manager Lenny Laymen tunes rain gauge – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
The National Weather Service is using rain gauges placed throughout the Mullen burn scar to improve its flash flood predictions.
In September of 2020, the Mullen Fire burned over 170,000 acres of southern Wyoming and northern Colorado. The flames destroyed plant life in and around the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, increasing the likelihood of dangerous and unpredictable flood-related debris flows.
In early 2023, Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman asked the Board of County Commissioners for authorization to purchase six wireless weather stations to be installed in the Mullen burn scar. The weather stations monitor precipitation in the burn scar and provide real-time information to the National Weather Service. The collected data will allow the agency to ground proof its weather predictions in remote parts of Carbon and Albany County.
The board denied Layman’s request due to concerns about the cost of maintaining and monitoring the stations.
Undeterred, Layman returned to the county commissioners later in the year with a grant to cover the entirety of the $55,000 cost to purchase, set up, and monitor the six rain gauges. This time, the board approved the emergency manager’s request.
Speaking at the June 6th, 2023, Board of County Commissioners meeting, Layman explained how the weather stations will provide residents with more precise flood forecasting.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095306/1112_Rain-Gauge-1.mp3Layman received the rain gauges late in 2023 and began setting them up in remote parts of the Mullen burn scar this past spring.
Speaking to Bigfoot99 in June, Layman explained that the solar-powered weather stations stand on tripods with instruments extending roughly ten feet above the ground. A small bucket electronically measures the amount of precipitation the area is receiving, which is wirelessly broadcast every 15 minutes to various state and local agencies.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095308/1112_Rain-Gauge-2.mp3Layman removed the six weather stations this fall and packed them away to be used next year.
Now, the National Weather Service must review the data collected by the gauges over the past six months. Senior Service Hydrologist Tony Anderson, with the National Weather Service, explained that the beacons didn’t produce much information this year because the season was fairly uneventful. Anderson said the time was spent fine-tuning the weather stations, so they produce better data next year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095311/1112_Rain-Gauge-3.mp3Anderson said Layman was the driving force behind the rain gauge program. While the project originated in Carbon County, Anderson said he expects the program to eventually spread across the entire country.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095313/1112_Rain-Gauge-4.mp3Anderson said that rain gauges in burn zones produce better flash flood forecasting from the National Weather Service.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095314/1112_Rain-Gauge-5.mp3Anderson complimented Layman for spearheading the local weather station project. The senior hydrologist mentioned that the gauges can also be used in other parts of Wyoming affected by wildfires.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095317/1112_Rain-Gauge-6.mp3Next spring, Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman will select six new sites to install the wireless rain gauges, enhancing the effectiveness of the National Weather Service’s flash flood predictions.
The post County’s Rain Gauges Help National Weather Service first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 12, 2024|
Photo – The Bronze Boot – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Wyoming Cowboys went into the bye week with a win. Going into the off week after the 49-45 win over New Mexico ten days ago, head coach Jay Sawvel talked about what his team needed to accomplish with the down time.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095302/1112_Jay-Sawvel-1.mp3The coach had a to-do list going into the off week. We’ll see if the Cowboys checked things off last week as they return to action in the Border War matchup this Friday night with CSU in Fort Collins.
Yesterday, Coach Sawvel ran through the lengthy list of weapons the Rams will present this week, especially when it comes to forcing turnovers and capitalizing with points. Eliminating mistakes will be key for Wyoming, Sawvel said during this week’s news conference.
The Cowboys have won the coveted Bronze Boot in seven of the past eight matchups.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095258/1112_Wyo-Wins-in-2023.mp3Last year, the Cowboys captured the 115th edition of the Border War with a 24-15 win over CSU inside War Memorial Stadium in Laramie. It was the third consecutive win in the series for Wyoming and the seventh UW win in the last eight Border War showdowns.
This year’s contest is in Fort Collins. The Rams are riding a four-game winning streak. They got blown out at Texas in week 1, 52-0. The Rams then lost at Colorado 9-28.
They have been on a roll since mid-October, though, winning four straight Mountain West matchups. CSU sits in second place in the Mountain West standings, behind only the one-loss to Boise State Broncos.
Coach Sawvel opened yesterday’s news conference by laying out the weapons the Rams will deploy Friday night.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12095300/1112_Jay-Sawvel-2.mp3The “Border War” series has been played in three different centuries, dating back to Nov. 30, 1899. Friday night’s matchup will be 125th anniversary of that first meeting in Fort Collins.
Wyoming redshirt freshman quarterback Kaden Anderson was named the Mountain West Freshman of the Week following the win over New Mexico. It marked the first time this season a Cowboy has earned a weekly Player of the Week honor from the conference.
Anderson will be under center Friday night in the Border War matchup.
Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. on Friday. Bigfoot 99 will be on the air at 4:30 with the pregame show.
The post Cowboys Head To Fort Collins After Bye Week first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 11, 2024|
Photo – MHCC – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Carbon County Clerk’s Office has released the official 2024 election results.
This year’s ballot not only included the usual federal, state, and local elections, but also two new items: Constitutional Amendment A, which will allow the Wyoming state legislature to adjust taxes on residential properties independently from commercial properties, and the formation of a taxpayer-funded healthcare district to support Memorial Hospital of Carbon County.
Voters in Rawlins, Sinclair, and Hanna were asked to decide on the creation of the special hospital district. The measure was narrowly defeated by just 89 votes. Out of the 3,429 total votes cast, 1,670 were for the formation of the hospital district, with the majority, 1,759, opposed.
The people of Rawlins Ward One, which covers the south side of the city, were evenly divided when it came to the formation of the Memorial Hospital special healthcare district. Out of 448 total votes cast, 230 were against, while 218 were for, a difference of only 12 votes.
Rawlins Ward One dash Two encompasses the central and eastern sections of the city. Voters supported the creation of the hospital district, although not by much. Out of a total 287 votes, 146 were for, while 141 were against, a difference of only 5 votes.
Rawlins Ward Two covers the Highland Hills section of the city. Here, the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County special healthcare district was a close race. Only five more voters were against the formation of the hospital district, which was enough to defeat the measure, 291 to 286.
Sunny Side voters in Ward Two dash Two narrowly defeated the measure, with a final tally of 251 for and 260 against, a difference of only nine votes.
Like other areas of the city, Rawlins Ward Three voters were evenly divided on the creation of the special hospital district. Two hundred and fourteen residents voted for the measure, with 207 against, a difference of only seven votes.
Staying in Rawlins, Ward Three dash Three voters defeated the special hospital district by 15 votes. Ward Three dash Three residents voted 334 to 319 against the measure.
North of Rawlins, in Muddy Gap, eight voters opposed the formation of the special district, with five in support.
Heading east to Sinclair, roughly 25% more voters supported the special hospital district than were against the measure, with a final tally of 98 to 75.
Moving north to the unincorporated area of Leo, voters were for the Memorial Hospital healthcare district. Of 24 votes, 14 were for the measure, with 10 against.
Despite not being in the boundary of the proposed hospital district, ten Medicine Bow voters still weighed in on the measure. Medicine Bow is already part of its own taxpayer funded Rural Health Care District. Unsurprisingly, of the ten voters who cast ballots on the measure, seven were opposed.
Next door, in Hanna, residents rejected the formation of the Memorial Hospital healthcare district, 195 to 114.
Three Baggs residents cast their votes for the Memorial Hospital special healthcare district. Of those three, two were in favor with one opposed.
Despite several months of intensive public outreach, the hospital district failed. Without the proposed $1.5 million generated by the district, Memorial Hospital staff must change the way the healthcare facility does business. Hospital officials have said they will continue to pursue a taxpayer funded special district on future ballots. Bigfoot99 will have an interview with MHCC Chief Operating Officer Stephanie Hinkle later this week.
The post Creation Of Hospital District Fails In General Election first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 11, 2024|
Photo – Town of Saratoga logo – Courtesy Town of Saratoga website
In Saratoga, work to replace the water lines along River Street is nearly complete. With project wrapping up, town leaders are planning for the next big project.
In 2019, Carbon County voters approved the creation of the 6th Penny Special Purpose Tax. The additional revenue generated by the tax is earmarked for specific infrastructure improvement projects in each municipality.
Saratoga residents voted to use the money to replace the outdated water mains running beneath Spring Avenue and River Street, along with six other projects.
After numerous delays, the Spring Avenue water line replacement was completed last summer. The next phase, on River Street, is scheduled for completion next spring.
The majority of the work is finished. Only paving remains to be done. In October, the Saratoga town council voted to allow the contractor, Cheyenne-based Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel, to put the finishing touches on the project next year.
Saratoga officials are setting its sights on the next major project. During the November 5th town council meeting, Public Works Director Emery Penner highlighted the urgent need to replace the sewer lines beneath the North Platte River. Penner suggested using a State Revolving Fund grant to finance the river line replacement and 6th Penny funds to pay for additional repairs on the west hill.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/11095853/1111_Toga-Projects-1.mp3The Wyoming State Revolving Fund, referred to as SRF, offers principal forgiveness as part of its financial assistance for water and wastewater infrastructure projects on publicly owned systems, such as the sewer lines in Saratoga.
Penner explained that work on the hill can begin next spring using the 6th Penny Tax. The river crossing project still needs to be designed, and construction is unlikely to begin until 2026.
The town will need to foot the bill until enough 6th Penny Tax is collected. The public works director suggested taking out a loan to cover the remaining costs of the projects.
To ensure the town’s sewer and water enterprise fund isn’t depleted by the loan payments, Penner recommended raising the yearly sewer rates by an additional 64 cents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/11095855/1111_Toga-Projects-2.mp3Town ordinances already include an automatic three percent increase in annual sewer fees to cover the cost of maintenance. Penner recommended raising the rate by an additional half a percent. To change the yearly fee, an ordinance amendment is needed, requiring three readings at three separate public hearings before being adopted. Penner said he is likely to present an amended sewer fee ordinance at the next Saratoga town council meeting on November 19th.
Returning to the state of the sewer system, the public works director described a recent inspection of one of the pipes running beneath the river. Penner said the pipe is very damaged.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/11095857/1111_Toga-Projects-3.mp3Councilman Mike Cooley said the sewer lines were installed in the mid-80’s, making them roughly 40 years old.
Penner said he is preparing the state-required environmental reports to allow him to begin work on the sewer projects next year.
The post Saratoga Advised Of Failing Sewer Lines Beneath North Platte first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 11, 2024|
Photo – Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investments logo – Courtesy State of Wyoming
The Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investments is preparing to take back unspent ARPA funds.
In 2021, the Biden administration created the American Rescue Plan Act. States were given $350 billion to combat the economic impact of the COVID pandemic. Wyoming received over $1 billion in ARPA funding.
In 2022, the Wyoming state legislature created the ARPA Water and Sewer program to distribute $50 million to cities, counties, special districts, and tribal governments for eligible water and wastewater projects. The State Lands and Investment Board was put in charge of overseeing the ARPA money. The maximum grant any single project could receive was $7.5 million.
The federal government requires that the ARPA money be encumbered, or committed to the specified project, before October 1st of this year. Additionally, all the grant-funded projects must be completed by the end of December 2026.
During the September 27th Joint Appropriations Committee Meeting, Christine Emminger with the Wyoming State Budget Department explained that Governor Mark Gordon informed municipalities six months ago that any money not already spent would be returned to the state and used for water improvement projects.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/07095442/1106_ARPA-1.mp3Kevin Hibbard, also with the State Budget Department, said Senate File 132, the American rescue plan act appropriations bill, gives Governor Gordon the authority to redeploy any unused ARPA funding. Hibbard said if the state doesn’t spend the money, it will be returned to the federal government. By taking back any unspent money, the Wyoming legislature is ensuring the funding will still be available for future projects.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/07095445/1106_ARPA-2.mp3Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investment Grants and Loans Manager Beth Blackwell informed the Joint Appropriations Committee that seven water improvement projects are likely to be unable to encumber the ARPA funds before the October 1st deadline. Blackwell said an additional 32 projects are also eligible for redistribution.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/07095447/1106_ARPA-3.mp3Bigfoot reporter Matt Copeland reached out to Office of State Lands and Investment Communications and Policy Analyst Melissa DeFratis for a list of municipalities that had their unspent ARPA funding returned to the state. DeFratis wrote that the full list won’t be available until the middle of this month, at the earliest.
Here in Carbon County, three municipalities applied to SLIB for funding. In the first draft of ARPA grants in October of 2022, the town of Encampment requested $1.4 million for sewer lagoon improvements. A call to the Encampment town hall confirmed that the funds were successfully encumbered, and the project is well on its way toward completion.
In 2022, Saratoga applied for and received $966,000 for the Spring Avenue Water Line Replacement Project, which was completed the following summer.
The city of Rawlins asked SLIB for the maximum $7.5 million to repair and replace its aging water transmission system. Design work on the project hadn’t been started and SLIB denied the city’s request.
In November of 2023, SLIB opened another round of ARPA grant requests. The town of Saratoga received $700,000 to continue its water line replacement project down River Street. On October 15th, Saratoga Public Works Director Emery Penner informed the town council that the River Street project was nearly complete.
Not wanting a repeat of the previous year, City of Rawlins requested $735,000 to design a new water transmission line. This time, SLIB approved the city’s grant application.
Bigfoot99 has reached out to Rawlins officials for an update on the ARPA funded project.
At this time, no official word has been received, and it is unclear if the city managed to encumber all, or a portion of, the federal funding before the October 1st deadline.
The post State To Recall Unused ARPA Funding first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 11, 2024|
Photo – UW Cowboys logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
Mountain West Football this weekend:
21 Washington State upended Utah State 49-28. Cougars quarterback John Mateer threw four touchdown passes and ran in another.
Air Force won at home, defeating Fresno State 36-26 for the Falcons first conference win of the season.
UNLV fell to Hawaii on the islands 29-27.
Boise State improved to 5-0 in conference play with a 28-21 home win over Nevada.
San Jose State defeated Oregon State 24-13.
New Mexico, coming off the 49-45 loss to Wyoming, bounced back and defeated Mountain West defector San Diego State 21-16 on the west coast Friday night.
The stage is now set for this Friday night. Another Mountain West defector—Colorado State will host Wyoming in the 2024 edition of the Border War. The Rams have won four games in a row and five of their last six.
The Cowboys are coming off a bye week after defeating New Mexico 49-45 with Kaden Anderson at quarterback.
The post A Look At This Last Weekend’s Mountain West Games first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
NOVEMBER 8, 2024|
Photo – Seal of Carbon County, WY – Bigfoot99 file photo
Tuesday’s election results are now official. Carbon County’s Canvas Board completed its work on Thursday.
The official tally is unchanged from the raw vote counts released Tuesday evening. The official results are posted online at carboncountywy.gov.
The results have been canvassed and are now official.
Results from Sweetwater County must be added for two races before winners of the Carbon County School District #1 race and the Little Snake River Conservation District can be finalized. This includes any write-ins for CCSD#1.
According to the Clerk’s office, 1,066 new voter registrations were submitted on Election Day this week. Turnout on Tuesday was 105.69%, including the new registrations.
The Carbon County Clerk’s office thanked the poll workers who “are imperative to a successful election process.” The Clerk’s Office reports that the process went smoothly this week and was without issues.
Election Results | Carbon County, WY – Official Website
The post County’s Election Results Now Official first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 3, 2024 |
Photo – Dam on Hogback Reservoir – Courtesy paddle.com
Rawlins officials are studying the accuracy of the newly finalized FEMA flood zone maps to determine the city’s next action. Action must be taken by the end of the year.
In 2016, the Federal Emergency Management Agency began the process of updating flood plain maps across the country with the end effect of raising additional revenue for the federal government through flood insurance. EMA is ready to put its new maps into effect.
Some municipalities in Carbon County have questioned the methods used by the federal agency to determine which properties are now at risk of a 100-year flood after the maps were redrawn. Last year, former Saratoga Councilman Jon Nelson convinced the governing body to hire an outside engineering firm to double check the federal agency’s work. Nelson pointed out that the flood plain map showed adjacent properties at different risk of flooding, despite being at the same elevation.
After a month of research, the engineering firm informed the Saratoga town council that FEMA’s mapping process was not flawed enough to fight.
In Rawlins, a different conclusion was reached.
The time has come to formally adopt FEMA’s new flood plain maps. Properties now considered at risk of a 100-year flood and having federally backed mortgages will be legally required to purchase flood insurance.
In Rawlins, the updated flood plain maps show a significant portion of the south side of the city at risk of a once in a century flood. During a special work session held before Tuesday’s regular city council meeting, City Manager Tom Sarvey explained that FEMA is demanding the city treat the area around Sugar Creek as a flood hazard zone.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101300/1003_FEMA-Flood-Map-1.mp3To comply with the federal government’s demands, the Rawlins city council must adopt a 26-page FEMA ordinance by this December. Sarvey said he believes that failing to adopt the regulations may jeopardize the city’s ability to secure federal grants.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101303/1003_FEMA-Flood-Map-2.mp3City Manager Sarvey said FEMA has determined that Hogback Reservoir, to the west of the city, is within the flood zone. Sarvey said the federal agency believes that the reservoir will overflow during a 100-year flood.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101306/1003_FEMA-Flood-Map-3.mp3Sarvey said in the past, a dam or retention wall was constructed to prevent the reservoir from overflowing. However, the city manager said he doesn’t know if the structure is still capable of holding back flood water.
Earlier in the year, the city hired an engineering firm to investigate the condition of the retaining structure. The wall is on private property and the city is still waiting for an easement from the landowners to give the engineers access to the structure.
Councilman Chris Weisenburg asked Sarvey what amount of water FEMA considered in its calculations for a once-in-a-century flood. Weisenburg said he believes that Hogback Reservoir can hold a large amount of water before overflowing.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101308/1003_FEMA-Flood-Map-4.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum agreed with Councilman Weisenburg, saying that he has never seen Hogback Reservoir come close to overflowing.
Sarvey said the engineer will determine the flood mitigation effectiveness of the reservoir. The city manager added that he doesn’t believe that FEMA’s new maps account for culverts and diversion pipes installed by the city specifically to prevent flooding. The engineer will also determine if those flood mitigation efforts are sufficient to change the federal agency’s flood plain map.
The city manager explained that according to FEMA, Hogback Reservoir will flood into Sugar Creek, putting nearly the entire south side of Rawlins at risk of flood damage. Properties in the newly designated flood zone, with federally backed mortgages, must purchase flood insurance.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101310/1003_FEMA-Flood-Map-5.mp3Homeowners that own their property outright are not legally required to obtain flood insurance.
City Attorney Pinita Maberry-Nave said flood insurance is like car insurance. Companies consider many variables when determining premiums. Because of the differences between each home, Attorney Maberry-Nave said it’s difficult to estimate the potential cost to homeowners.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101313/1003_FEMA-Flood-Map-6.mp3The City Manager said he spoke to the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security’s National Flood Insurance Program Manager Kim Johnson about the price of flood insurance. Sarvey said he learned that flood insurance premiums can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars a year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101315/1003_FEMA-Flood-Map-7.mp3Once the city officially accepts the new flood plain maps, Sarvey said mortgage companies will be responsible for reaching out to homeowners about purchasing flood insurance.
Councilman Weisenburg said the insurance requirement may come as a surprise to residents. Weisenburg asked that the city hold a public meeting to inform affected homeowners about the changes before they go into effect.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101317/1003_FEMA-Flood-Map-8.mp3City Manager Sarvey said he will work on arranging a public meeting.
In the meantime, the city council will review FEMA’s required ordinance changes. Like all changes to city regulations, the ordinance must be read three times during three separate public meetings. If the council is satisfied with the changes, the ordinance will be read for the first time during the October 15th Rawlins city council meeting. The city has until December 20th to officially adopt the flood plain maps.
Adopting FEMA’s ordinance is necessary for Rawlins to be eligible for emergency funding from the federal agency. Even if the governing body chooses not to adopt the ordinance changes, residents living in the newly expanded flood zone will still be required to purchase flood insurance through their mortgage companies.
The council members said they did not like the idea of forcing residents on the south side of the city to purchase flood insurance. The governing body is hoping that the engineer hired to study the city’s flood mitigation efforts provides evidence that FEMA made a mistake. If that happens, the city will file a letter of map amendment with the federal agency to alter the flood plain map. The date for the engineer to present the finalized report has not been specified.
The post FEMA Flood Map Acceptance Due By December first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 3, 2024 |
Photo – Track hoe digging River Street in Saratoga – Courtesy Saratoga Public Works
The Saratoga town council votes to allow the River Street water line replacement project contractor to finish the job next year.
In 2019, the 6th Penny Special Purpose Tax was approved to fund infrastructure improvements across Carbon County. Saratoga residents voted to use the money to replace the outdated water mains running beneath Spring Avenue and River Street, along with six other projects.
In 2022, Rock Springs contractor Lewis and Lewis was hired to begin the first phase of the water main replacement project along Spring Avenue. Equipment procurement issues and ground water flooding caused delays. The contracted completion of date of October 2022 was not met and financial penalties, called liquidated damages, of $1,000 a day were added to the cost throughout the winter months.
As snow and cold moved in, Lewis and Lewis asked the Saratoga town council to pause the liquidated damages until the following spring. The contractor said crews would return to town to finish the job. The council chose to uphold the contract and continue assessing fines throughout the winter.
Lewis and Lewis returned in the spring and the Spring Avenue water line replacement project was finally completed in the summer of 2023. All liquidated damages not needed to cover the town’s expenses were returned to the contractor.
In June of this year, Cheyenne-based Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel was hired to complete the next phase of the water main replacement project: River Street. Speaking to Bigfoot99 in August, Saratoga Public Works Director Emery Penner said the job should be finished by the middle of September.
With October here, the current job is not finished.
During Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Public Works Director Penner said Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel is almost done with the River Street project. However, temperatures are now too cold to finish paving the road. Penner said the contractor is requesting to extend the contracted completion date until next year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101320/1003_River-Street-1.mp3Penner recommended granting the contractor’s request. The public works director said he is satisfied with the amount of work Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel has completed so far.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101322/1003_River-Street-2.mp3Penner said he believes it would be unreasonable to punish the contractor by not allowing them to finish the job next year.
Mayor Chuck Davis said Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel has worked hard on the River Street water line replacement project. Council members Bub Barkhurst and Kathy Beck both agreed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101324/1003_River-Street-3.mp3Penner explained that if the council votes to approve the contract extension, Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel will have until June 30th of 2025 to finish the job. The public works director said the agreed price remains in effect, even if costs rise over the next eight months.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101326/1003_River-Street-4.mp3If approved, Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel would be contractually obligated to finish the job by the end of June. Afterwards, Penner said the contractor will have four months to fix any problems discovered by the town. The public works director said another contract extension should not be needed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101329/1003_River-Street-5.mp3The Saratoga town council voted to approve the change order allowing Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel to finish the River Street water line replacement project next year.
The post River Street Project On Hold Until Weather Favorable first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 3, 2024 |
Photo – Building sold to Albany County – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Carbon County commissioners agreed this week to give money from the sale of the Medicine Bow building, sold to Albany County School District One for use as a schoolhouse in the rural community of Garrett, to the Road and Bridge Department.
The building sold for a price of $80,000.
At yesterday’s Carbon County commissioners meeting, Road and Bridge Superintendent Kandis Fritz asked the board if they would like her to repave County Roads 500 and 504 in Saratoga. Fritz said the cost of repaving just five miles of the roads is estimated to exceed $2 million.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101201/1002_County-Road-Projects-1.mp3Fritz said the existing pavement is in very bad condition. With no money to maintain asphalt, Fritz suggested replacing the road surface with gravel and millings.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101251/1002_County-Road-Projects-2.mp3After removing the asphalt, the dirt roads will need magnesium chloride treatment to reduce dust.
As reported by Bigfoot99, the Carbon County commissioners agreed to sell an unused county-owned building in Medicine Bow to the Albany County School District for $80,000. Albany County is now using the structure as a schoolhouse in the small ranching community of Garrett.
At yesterday’s county commissioners meeting, Fritz said if the board agrees to put the money from the sale of the building into her budget, she will ensure that both County Roads 500 and 504 receive magnesium chloride treatment after the pavement is removed. Fritz also said she’ll offer a road and bridge crew to fill the hole where the building once stood.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101253/1002_County-Road-Projects-3.mp3Fritz said residents across the county are demanding dust reduction chemicals for their roads. With the money from the sale, Fritz said she can apply another 12 miles of magnesium chloride.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101255/1002_County-Road-Projects-4.mp3Fritz also offered the use of a backhoe and a worker to fill the empty foundation in Medicine Bow in exchange for the sale money.
The county commissioners agreed to put the $80,000 from the sale of the building in the road and bridge budget.
Fritz asked to keep the water line that used to feed the building in Medicine Bow. The road and bridge superintendent said the water can be used to wash off muddy machinery.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/03101258/1002_County-Road-Projects-5.mp3The board agreed to install a spigot at the former site of the Medicine Bow building. The commissioners thanked Fritz for her forward thinking.
The post Money From Sale Of Building Goes To Road And Bridge first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 3, 2024 |
Photo – Blair Fleming – Courtesy sjsuspartans.com
Riley Gaines, the American swimmer who has fought back against the invasion of men into women’s collegiate sports in recent years, praised the University of Wyoming volleyball team for cancelling Saturday’s game against San Jose State University, which has a man on its team.
San Jose State University kept the original story of Blaire Fleming, born a man, a secret. More than a dozen female athletes, including one of Fleming’ teammates, are suing the NCAA for Title IX violations.
Fleming, a redshirt senior, previously played at Coastal Carolina University and has played on the SJSU women’s team for the past three seasons. San Jose State initially hid the fact that the 6-foot-1 outside hitter was born a male.
According to the legal complaint, Fleming’s teammate on the Spartans, Brooke Slusser had noticed that “Fleming played volleyball with jumping ability and power that surpassed that of any girl on the team.”
It wasn’t until she overheard a conversation among students who called Fleming a “guy” that she realized why that was.
The San Jose State is enjoying a historic year in volleyball. They are undefeated with two teams, including Boise State, forfeiting a contest against the Spartans earlier this week.
A group known as Concerned Women of America is raising concern about Fleming’s presence on the court after San Jose State hid the fact the player is a man.
“We want to protect the integrity of women’s sports but also the safety of these female athletes,” Macy Petty of CWA said. “Many of these schools were unaware that there was a male athlete on this team until this news article came out in April. We just want to make sure that these schools know exactly what is going on in this athletic program because the NCAA and SJSU had not previously given them the decency to even let them know what was happening.”
Fleming is enjoying standout year in part because the net in women’s collegiate volleyball is seven inches shorter than it is for male players.
The attorney said players have felt blindsided because players had been informed about the presence of transgender players on opposing teams.
Last Friday, Colorado State University in Fort Collins told the group, Concerned Women of America, that it planned to play San Jose State despite the safety concerns raised by CWA to the school. The match between the two schools is set for today.
The match with Wyoming was set for Saturday in Laramie.
After Boise State cancelled its matchup with San Jose State over the controversy of the male player on the women’s team, Idaho Governor Brad Little praised the school’s decision. He even signed an executive order, the nation’s first, “defending women’s sports.”
Governor Mark Gordon on Tuesday announced on X that he was “in full support of the decision by @wyoathletics to forego playing its volleyball match against San Jose State. It is important we stand for integrity and fairness in female athletics.”
The overwhelming majority of comments to the original post on the governor’s twitter feed were supportive of his comments.
The post UW Volleyball Receives Support For Decision To Forfeit Game first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 2, 2024 |
Photo – Independence Rock – Courtesy pathwaysnha.com
Carbon County Commissioner Travis Moore denied claims yesterday that were made last week at the Carbon County Council of Governments that the firm working on the Pathways National Heritage Area was paid.
Mayor Terry Weickum made the claim.
Last year, Vernon Lovejoy and Dr. Glenn Haas, of Lovejoy Consulting in Denver, Colorado, proposed the creation of the Pathways National Heritage Area. The project covers areas of Carbon and Natrona Counties, including trails, paths, and other historically significant sites used during America’s westward expansion. The goal of the national heritage area is to promote tourism and increase revenue.
The creation of a national heritage area requires a feasibility study to be submitted to the National Parks Service. If the parks service approves of the project, it is sent to Congress for potential inclusion on a federally managed list of heritage areas.
Lovejoy and Dr. Haas are nearly ready to submit the feasibility study to the federal government for review and approval. The last step is collecting letters of support from local officials, business owners, and stakeholders.
As reported by Bigfoot99 on Monday, members pf the Carbon County Council of Governments were not in agreement about whether they should submit a letter of support for the Pathways National Heritage Area. At the September 18th meeting, Rawlins Mayor Terry Weickum said he has proof that Lovejoy and Dr. Haas were paid by both the Carbon and Natrona visitors councils rather than volunteering their professional services.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101553/1002_Pathways-1.mp3During the Pathways National Heritage Area proposal process, both Lovejoy and Dr. Haas told county and municipal officials that they were not receiving any money to work on the project. Rawlins Mayor Weickum insisted he had proof that the two men received $7,500 from both the Natrona and Carbon County visitors councils.
Despite the objections of Mayor Weickum and Saratoga Councilman Mike Cooley, both of whom voted “no” on the measure, the council of governments approved offering a letter of support for the Pathways National Heritage Area.
The topic of whether Lovejoy and Haas received payment for their services was raised during Tuesday’s Board of Carbon County commissioners meeting. Commissioner Travis Moore read an official statement provided by Carbon County Visitors Council Chief Executive Officer Leslie Jefferson denying any type of financial exchange for Lovejoy Consulting’s work on the heritage area feasibility study.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101556/1002_Pathways-2.mp3Commissioner Moore reiterated that Lovejoy and Dr. Haas were volunteers and did not get paid for their work on the project. Moore said the project has received pushback from people worried about seeping federal control of local areas through the program. The completed feasibility study should be in the hands of the National Parks Service by the end of this week.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101559/1002_Pathways-3.mp3If the National Parks Service approves the project, Commissioner Moore said the next step would be the creation of a 501(c)(3) to oversee the Pathways National Heritage Area. The nonprofit organization will be made up of members from the Carbon County Visitors Council and Natrona County Travel and Tourism Council.
Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones asked residents not to panic, adding that the process is still years away from completion.
The board thanked Commissioner Moore for his work on the Pathways National Heritage Area.
The post Mayor Says Volunteers Paid, Commissioner Says Not first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 2, 2024 |
Photo – DV Awareness event announcement – Courtesy RPD
October is recognized as domestic violence awareness month. The Rawlins Police Department is inviting people to come and learn more about the seriousness of domestic violence.
Last night, the Rawlins city council read a proclamation declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Rawlins Police Department Victim Assistance Coordinator Rachel Berger explained that domestic violence is a pattern of behavior used to gain power and control over an intimate partner. Berger said the Rawlins Police Department’s Victim Assistance Program helps victims of domestic violence escape their abusive situations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101536/1002_Domestic-Abuse-1.mp3October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Berger said by bringing attention to domestic violence, victims become aware of the services provided by the Rawlins Police Department. The victim assistance coordinator said unfortunately, domestic violence is not a rare occurrence.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101539/1002_Domestic-Abuse-2.mp3Berger said some victims may not even be aware that they’re being abused. The Rawlins Victims Assistance Program can help people determine if their partner is abusing them. If so, Berger said she’ll help them file a protection order against their abuser.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101542/1002_Domestic-Abuse-3.mp3Unlike a restraining order, a protection order is strictly for victims of abuse, whether the abuse comes in the form of violence, sexual assault, or stalking and harassment. Under a protection order, the alleged abuser is forbidden from making any contact with the victim, their children, or pets.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101544/1002_Domestic-Abuse-4.mp3Berger said victims do not need to file criminal charges against their alleged abuser to speak to the Rawlins Police Department’s Victims Assistance Program or obtain a protection order. However, once they’ve spoken to her, Berger said victims are more likely to take the next step to escape their situation.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101547/1002_Domestic-Abuse-5.mp3Berger said victims often attempt to leave their situation an average of eight times before ending the abusive relationship for good. However, leaving is often the most dangerous time for victims.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101549/1002_Domestic-Abuse-6.mp3As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Rawlins Police Department and Citizens Organized to see Violence End, or COVE, are holding an open house event. Berger said on October 24th, citizens can come to the Rawlins police station to learn the signs of domestic violence and how the Victims Assistance Program can help them.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101551/1002_Domestic-Abuse-7.mp3Carbon County COVE is also holding its own domestic violence awareness events his month. On Saturday, October 12th, COVE is hosting the Paws for Peace pet walk at Depot Park in Rawlins. Dog owners can bring their leashed, vaccinated, and well-behaved animals to help raise awareness of domestic violence.
The following Wednesday, October 16th, COVE is hosting a paint and sip event in the old Depot Building in Rawlins. All beverages and refreshments for the adult only event will be provided by COVE.
The Rawlins Police Department domestic violence awareness open house is Thursday, October 24, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, at the Rawlins police station, located at 215 5th Street.
The post Rawlins Marks October Domestic Violence Awareness Month first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 2, 2024 |
Photo – 2019 photo of Kyle Berkshire – Courtesy Krank Golf Facebook page
World long drive champion Kyle Berkshire is unlikely to return to Rawlins this year to break his own record.
Last October, professional golfer Berkshire visited the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course in Rawlins with one goal in mind: to break the record for the world’s longest golf drive. Despite the unpredictable weather, Berkshire managed to hit a 579-yard shot from the 12th hole green.
The official distance world record is 515 yards, set in 1974 by Mike Austin during the U.S. National Seniors Open Championship in Las Vegas. Other golfers have hit farther than Austin, but the Guinness Book of World Records doesn’t recognize long drives outside of competitions.
In 2005, professional golfer Scott Smith hit a 539-yard drive during a long drive competition. Two years later, in 2007, Mike Dobbin hit for 551 yards. Berkshire currently holds the unofficial record at 579-yards.
After breaking the record, Berkshire attempted to hit a longer shot, but afternoon rain drove him indoors.
While waiting for the weather to change, Rochelle Ranch staff set up a golfing simulator in the golf course’s restaurant, the 19th Hole. While practicing his swings, Berkshire clocked a record-breaking club speed of 241.6 miles per hour.
Berkshire vowed to return to Rawlins this year with the intention breaking his own long drive record. However, Kyle’s father and manager, Bill Berkshire told Bigfoot99 that scheduling conflicts have delayed the golfer’s return.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/02101533/1001_Golf-1.mp3The elder Berkshire said due to the approaching winter, Kyle is unlikely to make it back to the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course this year.
Following his 579-yard record-breaking drive, Berkshire claimed he could hit even farther. The professional golfer announced his plans to return to Rawlins and attempt a 600-yard drive this year. However, Berkshire’s next record attempt will likely have to wait until next fall.
The post Rochelle Ranch Golf Course Not Likely To See Berkshire This Year first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 2, 2024 |
Photo – Cowgirls go for the block – Courtesy gowyo.com
The University of Wyoming volleyball team will forfeit a game against San Jose State rather than play the Spartans, who have a male player who claims to be a female. Declining the contest comes with a cost.
According to Mountain West Conference, the Cowgirls will record the match as a forfeit and a loss for Wyoming.
A brief statement from UW yesterday, reads, “After a lengthy discussion, the University of Wyoming will not play its scheduled conference match against San Jose State University in the UniWyo Sports Complex on Saturday, Oct. 5.”
Wyoming is the second team in a week to forfeit rather than play the Spartans, who feature a reported transgender athlete on their roster an outside hitter Blaire Fleming. Southern Utah and Boise State also said no to playing the Spartans.
One of Fleming’s own teammates, Brooke Slusser, joined lawsuit against the NCAA for violating Title IX.
The player in the center of the controversy was born male, with the name Brayden Fleming. He has had his birth name and identity hidden by SJSU for nearly two years. Fleming is second on the team with 119 kills and 3.92 kills per set. Fleming’s spikes have been clocked at more than 80 mph.
San Jose State is 10-0 overall, 2-0 in MW conference play. One of the conference wins was the result of the Boise State boycott. Wyoming (9-4, 1-1) is scheduled to return to the floor against Fresno State on Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
The post UW Volleyball Forfeits Against San Jose State first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 1, 2024 |
Photo – Modular building sold to Albany County – Bigfoot99 file photo
Carbon County sold an unused building to Albany County to use as a schoolhouse. With the building now gone, county officials must decide what to do with the old foundation.
In August, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners voted to sell an unneeded county-owned building to Albany County School District Number One. The modular building, formally located on the corner of Highway 487 and Beech Street in Medicine Bow, was purchased by Carbon County in 2019 using impact assistance money from the nearby TB Flats wind turbine construction project.
The one-story structure is split into two living quarters. It was originally intended to house a county Road and Bridge employee on one side and a sheriff’s deputy on the other.
At the time, then-sheriff Archie Roybal planned to have a deputy live in the building to patrol Medicine Bow and the surrounding areas. However, Sheriff Roybal was unable to find a deputy for the town and the county hired a Road and Bridge worker who already lives in town.
At the same time, the Medicine Bow mayor and town council used impact assistance money, which is now mostly gone, to open a marshal’s department in another property. Before being moved to Albany County to become a rural schoolhouse, the building sat unused for five years.
Meanwhile, in the tiny ranching town of Garrett, the Anderson family was fighting the Albany County School District over constructing a schoolhouse for their rural community. The county said that the small population of the town did not warrant a dedicated school. The Andersons were told they could bus their two young children over 40 miles to the school in Rock River or homeschool them.
After a three-year legal battle between the Andersons and the Albany County School District, the Wyoming legislature allocated $300,000 toward the construction of a school in Garrett. Upon learning of the Anderson’s plight, Carbon County Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones offered to sell the Medicine Bow building to Albany County for $80,000.
Albany County paid to remove the building from its concrete foundation and transport it to Garrett, where it was placed on a new foundation and used as the Antelope Creek School. One side of the structure will act as a classroom, while the other will be the home of teacher Lexi Horblait.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the Antelope Creek School last week.
Carbon County is now left with a large hole in the ground where the building once stood. During the September 3rd Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Buildings and Grounds Manager Jeff Askins said he has requested proposals from local contractors to fill the hole in Medicine Bow. At the time, Askins said no one has submitted a quote.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/01104553/1001_Med-Bow-Hole-1.mp3Commissioner John Johnson instructed Askins to prepare to have county crews fill the hole in case he is unable to find a contractor to do the job before winter.
Speaking to Bigfoot99 Monday afternoon, Askins said he received two quotes. However, both quotes were much higher than anticipated. Askins said for now, the site will remain fenced off until a more reasonable quote is received, or county crews are given authorization to perform the work.
The post Property To Be Fenced Off Until Foundation Can Be Filled first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 1, 2024 |
Photo – City of Rawlins logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
Contrary to what some may have heard, the City of Rawlins has no plans to remove its antelope logo at this time.
In January of 2011, Rawlins Downtown Development Authority Mainstreet hired Greenville, South Carolina marketing firm Arnett Muldrow to design a cohesive set of colors and fonts to be used throughout the city.
The staff at Arnett Muldrow recommended all Rawlins organizations adhere to a four-color scheme consisting of Rawlins Red, a blue used by the city in the past, sagebrush green, and yellow for vibrancy. The marketing agency also suggested that the city of Rawlins continue using the Paul Wawrzinicak designed antelope logo.
Wawrzinicak was a Rawlins city employee from 1982 until 2002. It’s unclear just how long Rawlins has been using Wawrzinicak’s design as its official logo, but it’s safe to say that it’s been in use for decades.
At the September 17th Rawlins city council meeting, Councilman Bruce Seilaff said Ward One residents were upset that the city was considering dropping the antelope from its official logo.
Councilman Seilaff said despite what people may have heard on Bigfoot99, the city has no intention of changing the pronghorn design.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/01104548/1001_Antelope-1.mp3Councilman Seilaff was referring to a letter written by a Bigfoot99 listener who mentioned that Rawlins may be considering changing its logo. The letter was sent to Bigfoot99 in response to a story in which a Carbon County Visitors Council member suggested that the town of Saratoga change its 97-year-old motto, Where the Trout Leap in Main Street.
Confusion over the Rawlins pronghorn logo may also stem from the Why Rawlins campaign. In July of 2022, Rawlins residents were presented with a survey asking for ways to encourage sustainable growth and attract tourists to the city. Changing the logo was one of the suggestions that came out of the survey, but a lack of staffing caused the Why Rawlins campaign to end in August of 2022.
Despite what the listener’s letter may have said, Bigfoot99 did not report that Rawlins officials are going to remove the pronghorn drawing from its official city logo.
The post City Of Rawlins Not Changing Logo first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 1, 2024 |
Photo – Department Of Interior, Washington DC – Courtesy Bureau of Land Management web page
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) on C Street Northwest in Washington, D.C., rejected the detailed comments submitted by the State of Wyoming and other entities protesting the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) and Proposed Resource Management Plan Amendment (RMPA) submitted by the Buffalo Field Office.
In a quietly released Protest Resolution Report issued on September 20, BLM denied or dismissed every protest submitted, with the BLM stating that no changes to the Buffalo FSEIS/RMPA are necessary.
Governor Gordon responded to the dismissal, saying he is disappointed but “not surprised” by the “characteristic disregard for the proper process or simple respect by the Biden-Harris Administration’s BLM.”
The governor continued saying the state response was met with a “characteristic disregard for proper process or simple respect” from the Biden Administration.
The governor said the final EIS was filled with “extreme inconsistencies with federal law and local land use policies were summarily dismissed, as was vital input from our impacted counties and their industries.”
Wyoming’s governor said the Biden Administration has no respect for hard working Americans. Governor Gordon reacted to the news, saying, “The BLM has doubled down on their contempt for our local economies and the hard-working men and women who provide the clean, dispatchable, and reliable energy that many take for granted.”
Governor Gordon promised to continue to defend Wyoming industries “from the federal government’s heavy hand and their attempts to gut Wyoming’s ability to develop our resources from every angle.”
In addition to the State of Wyoming, The National Mining Association, Navajo Transitional Energy Company, Wyoming County Commissioners Association, and the Board of County Commissioners for Campbell, Converse, and Johnson Counties submitted protests to the BLM.
The post BLM Rejects All Responses On Final Environmental Impact Statement first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
October 1, 2024 |
Photo – Wyoming Cowboys logo – Courtesy Wikipedia
The list of injuries for the Wyoming Cowboy begins with quarterback Evan Svoboda’s broken nose. He’s smiling despite the pain.
There are other Wyoming players wearing casts and walking boots yesterday, as the off week begins. The time couldn’t have come at a better time. September, the opening month of play, was brutal on the Cowboys. The soothing balm of the season’s first win finally came Saturday night with the 31-19 home win over Air Force.
Head coach Jay Sawvel thanked his injury-riddled squad for their gutsy second half performance against Air Force. The Cowboys fought back from six-point deficit at the half, outscoring the Falcons 24-6 down the stretch.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/01110916/1001_Jay-Sawvel-1.mp3The injury list is extensive.
On the offensive line, starting right guard Jack Walsh and starting left guard Wes King remain out. Both are expected to miss UW’s next game against San Diego State on Oct. 12.
Starting center Nofoafia Tulafono, who was shaken up in the fourth quarter, will practice this week.
The offensive unit previously lost starting left tackle Nate Geiger to a season-ending knee injury at Arizona State. Jake Davies, also a redshirt freshman, has started the last five games. Rex Johnsen started against the Falcons for Walsh and Alex Conn filled in for King, who was carted off with a knee injury that is not season ending.
UW’s secondary is also adjusting after a cluster of injuries to safeties Wyett Ekeler (two broken thumbs), Isaac White (foot) and Andrew Johnson (broken thumb). Ekeler is questionable, White is doubtful and Johnson probable for the Aztecs.
Starting nickel back Wrook Brown will get more work at safety and cornerback Caleb Merritt will practice at nickel this week. Sawvel also noted it will be important for young cornerbacks Ian Bell and Keany Parks to continue improving before facing SDSU’s spread offense.
Punt returner/wide receiver Caleb Cooley is nursing a bad ankle, fullback Caleb Driskill (thumb) and defensive end DeVonne Harris (arm) are on the mend but questionable for SDSU.
The target date for Harrison Waylee’s return from a knee injury is the Oct. 26 home game against Utah State. The starting running back plans to play in four games, maintain his redshirt and return to UW in 2025. Dawaiian McNeely is out for the rest of the season with a knee injury but also plans to return healthy next fall.
Svoboda, despite having his nose broken during the game, completed 71.4% of his passes for 165 yards and rushed for 70 yards and two touchdowns against Air Force.
The Wyoming players are on the mend, but Saturday night’s big win in the conference opener is the perfect balm for all that ailed the Cowboys through the month of September.
The post Several Cowboys Enter Bye Week Injured first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 30, 2024 |
Photo – Library books – Bigfoot99 file photo
County-wide budget cuts cause the Carbon County Library System to close its Sinclair branch, effective today.
A written statement provided by Library Director Maria Wenzel states that this fiscal year, the Carbon County Library System received $24,000 less than the previous year. With roughly 80% of the library’s funding coming from the county, primarily for staffing and operations, the decision was made to close the Sinclair branch as of today.
After the county budget was finalized in July, the Public Library Board of Carbon County began reviewing every branch, looking for cost and visitor statistics. Data showed that the Sinclair branch received the fewest patrons, with a total of 161 visits from July of 2023 to July of 2024. Factoring in the operational cost of the Sinclair branch, each visitor cost the library system $75.10. In comparison the Medicine Bow Library received five times as many visitors, with 801 people using the town’s library during the same period of time. Also from July of 2023 to July of 2024, the Hanna Branch received 581 visits.
Library Director Wenzel wrote that the statistics, combined with the budget cuts, made keeping the Sinclair branch open financially irresponsible.
The Sinclair library isn’t the only branch affected by the recent budget shortfall. The library board determined that more cuts were necessary, including reductions in operation expenditures across the board and reducing the hours of the Medicine Bow Library. More cuts are not off the table.
In her written statement, Library Director Wenzel wrote, “Our librarians and the Library Board are shaken by the closure; however, it is our job to be financially responsible with the taxpayers’ funds we have been entrusted with. With decreased foot traffic and low circulation, we cannot financially justify spending taxpayer dollars during a budget pinch on resources that are under utilized. We believe our residents deserve quality services throughout the entire system and are committed to keeping that our top priority.”
Carbon County Library staff are asking for the public’s understanding while they work through these trying financial times. It is not clear what will happen to the books and other material contained within the Sinclair Library. As of the reporting of this story, Library Director Wenzel has not returned our reporter’s phone call.
In the meantime, library staff will continue to provide service at the Elk Mountain, Encampment, Hanna, Little Snake River Valley, Medicine Bow, Saratoga, and Rawlins branches. Sinclair library users are encouraged to visit the Rawlins branch, located in the Carbon Building at 215 West Buffalo Street.
The post Budget Cuts Close Small Town’s Library first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 30, 2024 |
Photo – Map of proposed Heritage area – Courtesy Lovejoy Consulting
The Carbon County Council of Governments voted to provide a letter of support for the Pathways National Heritage Area over the objections of two of its members.
Last year, Vernon Lovejoy and Dr. Glenn Haas, of Lovejoy Consulting in Denver, Colorado, proposed the creation of the Pathways National Heritage Area. The national heritage area encompasses Carbon and Natrona Counties and contains the various trails, paths, and other historically significant sites used during America’s westward expansion.
Creating a national heritage area requires a feasibility study to be submitted to the National Parks Service for review. If accepted, the National Parks Service will recommend that Congress add the site to the list of federally recognized national heritage areas. Lovejoy and Dr. Haas said that inclusion on the list has the potential to bring droves of tourists to both Carbon and Natrona Counties.
The Pathways National Heritage Area feasibility study is nearly complete. Lovejoy and Dr. Haas are requesting letters of support from county and municipal officials, as well as business owners and other stakeholders.
During the September 18th Carbon County Council of Governments meeting in Hanna, County Commissioner Travis Moore explained the scope of the project and how a national heritage area may increase tourism.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113132/0930_Heritage-Area-1.mp3Commissioner Moore said the Pathways National Heritage Area feasibility study is nearly complete. The last step before submitting the document to the National Parks Service for review is collecting letters of support.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113136/0930_Heritage-Area-2.mp3If the National Parks Service approves the project, it will be brought before Congress for a vote. Commissioner Moore explained that the current political landscape in Washington D.C. means the project is unlikely to be approved soon. The commissioner added that heritage areas are popular revenue generators for locations that utilize them, such as Cache La Poudre River and South Park National Heritage Areas in Colorado.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113140/0930_Heritage-Area-3.mp3Commissioner Moore said a non-profit organization will take control of the Pathways National Heritage Area once it is approved. The board will be made up of himself and representatives from both Carbon and Natrona County tourism agencies.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113144/0930_Heritage-Area-4.mp3Commissioner Moore explained that the Carbon and Natrona County visitor’s councils will provide the majority of the funding required to run the national heritage area. By volunteering to participate in the heritage area, property owners will receive money to maintain their historically significant sites. Commissioner Moore said property owners can also opt not to have their land included in the heritage area.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113150/0930_Heritage-Area-5.mp3Commissioner Moore asked COG to provide a letter of support for the project. A motion was made and seconded, but Rawlins Mayor Terry Weickum said he does not support the project.
Mayor Weickum said after the idea was originally proposed, he discovered that Lovejoy and Dr. Haas had already been paid by both the Natrona and Carbon County visitors councils to begin working on the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113154/0930_Heritage-Area-6.mp3During the proposal process for the Pathways National Heritage area, both Lovejoy and Dr. Haas said they were not receiving any money to work on the project. At the September 18th Council of Governments meeting, Mayor Weickum said he no longer trusts the two men after discovering that they were, in fact, paid. The Rawlins Mayor added that he personally didn’t care for Vernon Lovejoy.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113158/0930_Heritage-Area-7.mp3Whether they were paid or not, Commissioner Moore said Lovejoy and Dr. Haas were responsible for getting the project off the ground. Once the last two aspects of the Pathways National Heritage Area are finalized, both men will cease to be involved with the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113202/0930_Heritage-Area-8.mp3Commissioner Moore defended paying Lovejoy and Dr. Haas, saying the relatively small amount of money was used to promote the heritage area project. Mayor Weickum said the two men should not have claimed they were working for free.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113206/0930_Heritage-Area-9.mp3Carbon County Council of Governments Chairman and Elk Mountain Mayor Morgan Irene called for a vote to submit a letter of support for the Pathways National Heritage Area. Mayor Weickum and Saratoga Councilman Mike Cooley voted against the measure. The vote passed six to two.
The post Letter of Support Provided To Proposed Heritage Area first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 30, 2024 |
Photo – Crew fills Hanna Mine #3 – Courtesy WY DEQ
The federal government has recognized Wyoming’s Abandoned Mine Lands Division for its work in Hanna.
When the last truckloads of coal were removed from the Hanna mines in the early 2000’s, the underground tunnels were left as they were. In the following decades, the ground above the tunnels has begun to collapse into the underground chambers, called subsidence.
Last week, the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement awarded the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality’s Abandoned Mine Lands Division the 2024 Western States and Tribes Regional Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Award for their work to combat mine collapses in Hanna. The Office of Surface Reclamation and Enforcement, or OSMRE, explained that decades of coal mining have undermined the surface of the northern Carbon County town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30114531/0930_AML-Award-1.mp3According to the OSMRE website, the Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Awards were established in 1992 to recognize exemplary state and Tribal reclamation projects that reclaim coal mine sites abandoned prior to the enactment of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977.
The Western States and Tribes Regional Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Award is given to projects that represent the nation’s highest achievements in abandoned mine land reclamation and demonstrate outstanding results in restoring previously mined lands. The awardees have helped to protect the public through the elimination of public safety and environmental hazards and bolstered local economies by creating new recreation opportunities and protecting local treasures.
Last summer, a 12-foot-wide subsidence opened under a water truck traveling along County Road 297, connecting the eastern side of Hanna to Highway 30. The road was closed until the surface was reinforced. The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement said County Road 297 is one of the major routes into and out of Hanna.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113117/0930_AML-Award-2.mp3Wyoming Abandoned Mine Lands Division Director Don Newton told Bigfoot99 that over $10 million was spent on the County Road 297 project. Despite the high cost, Newton said it is impossible to entirely fill the miles of underground tunnels that run beneath the town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113122/0930_AML-Award-3.mp3The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement said while AML was reinforcing the County Road 297, workers ensured that the bridge crossing over the Union Pacific Railroad tracks remained stable. Through a partnership between Wyoming AML and the Carbon County Road and Bridge Department, Hanna residents are once again able to access Highway 30 via County Road 297.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113127/0930_AML-Award-4.mp3OSMRE said the Hanna Number Three Mine Subsidence and Bridge Repair project is why the Wyoming Abandoned Mine Lands Division was selected to win the 2024 Western States and Tribes Regional Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Award.
OSMRE Principal Deputy Director Sharon Buccino wrote, “The Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Awards honor the best examples of AML reclamation in our nation. These reclamation projects showcase innovation, community collaboration, and how reclaiming legacy coal mining problems builds a better future for former coal communities.”
Four other states were also recognized this year by the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement for their coal mine reclamation projects, including New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Alabama, who’s Department of Labor Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Program received the National Award for the Piper Mine Reclamation Project.
This July, another void opened beneath County Road 297, prompting the county to close the road once again. However, Abandoned Mine Lands Division Director Newton told Bigfoot99 that the void wasn’t a subsidence into the mines, but a collapse of one of the bore holes used to fill the mine shaft last summer.
Earlier this month, AML visited Hanna once more to fill the hole. County Road 297 is currently open to traffic once again.
The post State Mine Lands Division Recognized For Work In Hanna first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 30, 2024 |
Photo – One Falcon in a group of Cowboys – Courtesy gowyo.com
Wyoming fans were treated to a show on Saturday night inside a packed War Memorial Stadium as the Cowboys roared back in the second half to beat Air Force 31-19 in their Mountain West opener.
The win was a glorious balm after a 0-and-4 start to the season. Down 13-7 at the half, the Cowboys roared back after the break.
Quarterback Evan Svoboda enjoyed a breakout game, throwing for 165 yards and rushing for 70 with two touchdowns, delivering a career first win for head coach Jay Sawvel.
All four Wyoming touchdowns came on the ground. The Cowboys started the third quarter with a pounding 7-play 76-yard scoring drive.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113056/0930_Air-Force-Wyo-1.mp3Keith Kelly had the call, and the Cowboys retook the lead, pulling ahead 14-13. Wyoming would never surrender the lead. The Cowboys scored again at the 5:56 mark of the third. Tyler King capped off an 11-play, 94-yard drive, with a sweeping three-yard run to the corner of the end zone.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113103/0930_Air-Force-Wyo-2.mp3John Hoyland added a 23-yard field goal—his 62nd career three point shot–early in the fourth quarter to take a 24-13 lead over the Falcons.
The Falcons struck quickly, scoring again on a seven play 75-yard drive, but a two-point conversion attempt failed. With 2:13 remaining in the fourth quarter and the Cowboys, leading 24-19, Svoboda put an exclamation point on the win with a leap and a brief dance at the end of the 17-yard touchdown run to celebrate the first Wyoming win of the season.
(Air Force-Wyo 3, “touchdown cowboys!”)
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113107/0930_Air-Force-Wyo-3.mp3Three consecutive scoring drives was just what the cowboys needed to wash away a month of losses in non-conference play. Head Coach Sawvel was happy for his quarterback, who has been feeling the pressure after struggling through the first month of the season.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/30113112/0930_Air-Force-Wyo-4.mp3Sawvel admitted that his injury-riddled squad went flat in the second quarter, but he liked how they dominated in the third quarter.
Running back Sam Scott rushed for 101 yards and a touchdown. John Michael Gyllenborg was back to full strength with 70 receiving yards. His longest was for 33 yards.
Cowboy left guard Wes King was carted off the field in the third quarter with an unspecified lower-body injury and did not return.
The Cowboys will enjoy a well-deserved bye week before continuing conference play at home against San Diego State on Saturday, October 12 in an afternoon game at War Memorial Stadium.
The post Wyoming Fans Packed The War For Homecoming first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 27, 2024 |
Photo – Graphic of proposed storage facility at Seminoe Reservoir – Courtesy NS Energy
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission sought public comments this week on the proposed Seminoe Pumped Storage Project. The gathering had a more of a “career night” feel than that of a public meeting, though.
On Wednesday evening, in the Jeffery Memorial Center in Rawlins, representatives from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and rPlus Hydro of Utah met formally to educate the public and collect comments about a proposed pumped storage project at the Seminoe Reservoir.
rPlus Hydro is seeking to construct a pumped storage power plant at, and under, the Seminoe Reservoir.
During a June 26th meeting in Sinclair, rPlus Hydro Chief of Staff Theresa Foxley explained that the pumped storage facility will act like a giant battery. When electricity is abundant, water will be pumped from the Seminoe Reservoir into an upper lake that will be constructed specifically for the project. When energy demands outpace production, Foxley said the stored water will be allowed to flow downhill through a turbine to generate electricity.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0927_Seminoe-1.mp3Building the pumped storage facility will be a massive undertaking. Construction will require creating a nearly 11,000-acre-feet, man-made lake on a hilltop in the adjacent Bennett Mountain Wilderness Study Area to store water for the hydro power project. Below ground, a large industrial complex must be built to house a hidden complex of electrical generation equipment.
Estimates put the cost of the entire project at around $3 billion. When completed, rPlus Hydro officials claim the project will generate over 900 megawatts of electricity over the course of 10 hours as water flows downhill from the upper lake, through the turbine, and back into the Seminoe Reservoir.
The project will impact boating and recreational opportunities on the lake.
rPlus Hydro wants to construct a 20-foot wide, 65 to 180-foot-high concrete dam to contain 10,800-acre-foot of water in the man-made lake above Seminoe. When power is needed, a 75-foot-wide pipe on the southwestern edge of Seminoe will channel water over three electrical turbines.
The design calls for the dam to produce maximum output of 972 megawatts over the course of 10 hours as the water from the upper reservoir flows back down into the Seminoe Reservoir.
In addition to the underground tunnels and turbine facility, the Bennet Mountain Road must be extensively overhauled to allow heavy construction traffic to travel to the power station.
rPlus Hydro is proposing to draw a total of 13,400 acre-feet of water from the Seminoe Reservoir to initially fill the new upper lake, with 10,800 acre-feet of the water available to be used to generate electricity. The upper lake is expected to lose 272 acre-feet of water every year due to evaporation and other natural causes. Filling the upper lake is expected to take approximately 14 hours.
Such a large project is subject to oversight by various state and federal agencies. Wednesday was the final Federal Energy Regulatory Commission scoping meeting for the project. According to the federal agency, the purpose of scoping is to identify issues, concerns, and opportunities for enhancement or mitigation associated with a proposed action.
Wednesday night’s meeting was to allow the public to learn more about the project and submit comments.
The first Seminoe Pumped Storage Project scoping meeting was held in Casper on Tuesday afternoon. A representative from FERC told Bigfoot99 that very few people submitted comments at that time.
The second, and last, scoping meeting occurred on Wednesday evening at the Jeffery Center in Rawlins. Representatives from rPlus Hydro set up a number of booths in the auditorium with information about the proposed facility. Members of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission were on hand with a court reporter to collect public comments. All comments made during both meetings, and through the FERC website, will become part of the public record.
Upon learning about the project, many residents expressed concern about the potential impact the pumped storage facility will have on the Seminoe Reservoir and nearby Miracle Mile. When operational, the facility is expected to change the water level of the reservoir by six to 18 inches, depending on the level of the lake when the facility is put into operation.
Additionally, even slight changes to the water composition, such as increased or lowered oxygen levels, could have negative impacts on trout fishing in the area.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s scoping document states that rPlus Hydro is required to perform a series of environmental protection and enhancement measures as part of the project. Included in the proposal is the development of a storm water pollution prevention plan designed to prevent contamination of surface waters from storm water runoff during construction. Also, rPlus Hydro is required to install and maintain fish exclusion bar racks on the 30-foot-wide input and output pipe in the Seminoe Reservoir to reduce the number of fish that are sucked into the pipes during operation.
The upper lake will be entirely fenced off to prevent fishing and other recreational activities.
The next step in the lengthy development process is a National Environmental Policy Act review of the project.
Potential impacts to water turbidity, temperature, and dissolved oxygen from Seminoe Reservoir all the way to the North Platte River must be studied. Additionally, investigations must be done on the effects construction and the occasional lowering and raising of the water level of Seminoe Reservoir will have on water quality.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will accept written comments about the Seminoe Pumped Storage Project until November. The following month, FERC will either issue a second scoping document to address problems identified in the comment process or move the project onto the next step, an environmental analysis.
If rPlus Hydro clears the permitting hurdles and receives approval, construction would begin construction in June of 2026.
The post Seminoe Pump Storage Project Discussed At Jeffery Center first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 27, 2024 |
Photo – Horses at Deerwood Ranch – Courtesy Jana Wilson
If you have made the drive over the Snowy Range and past Centennial you probably have seen the wild horses gathered on the big plains to the south of Wyoming 130 on the way to Laramie.
The public is invited to the Deerwood Ranch outside of Centennial for a horse and burro adoption event. Deerwood Ranch is a 4,000-acre horse sanctuary located roughly 12 miles east of Centennial. Originally established in 1982 as a cattle ranch, Deerwood began taking in wild horses in 2012.
On September 28th, Deerwood Ranch will host a Wild Horse and Burro Adoption. Ranch Owner Jana Wilson said that the Bureau of Land Management has more than 20 horses and burros up for adoption. Wilson said most of the animals are young, except for one older burro.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Horse-Adoption-1.mp3Many of the youngest horses have never been ridden. Adopting a horse or burro during tomorrow’s event costs $25. Wilson said the Bureau of Land Management offers cash incentives to keep the animals.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Horse-Adoption-2.mp3As well as horses and burros, tomorrow’s adoption event will also feature vendors, music, and barbecue. Wilson said it will be fun for families.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Horse-Adoption-3.mp3Funds raised through the smoked meat lunch go to the Shawn Herring Memorial Foundation. Wilson said after losing their child at the age of 31 to the Hantavirus, Dave and Roxanne Herring established the charity to provide emotional and financial assistance to people experiencing loss.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Horse-Adoption-4.mp3Deerwood Ranch contains over 350 rescue and wild horses. Normally touring the sanctuary costs $50 a person. However, Wilson said tours will be free during tomorrow’s adoption event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Horse-Adoption-5.mp3Tomorrow’s Wild Horse and Burro Adoption Event at Deerwood Ranch runs from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Free tours begin at 9:30 am and end at 2:30 pm. For more information about tomorrow’s adoption event, call Jana Wilson at 307-399-9956.
The post Wild Horse Adoption Event Tomorrow first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 27, 2024 |
Photo – Pumpkin Run poster – Courtesy Carbon County Library
This weekend is the tenth annual Carbon County Library System’s Pumpkin Run. This Saturday, area residents are invited to the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course for the 2024 Rawlins Pumpkin Run. Carbon County Library Foundation Vice President Mira Miller explained that the Pumpkin Run offers fun activities for families, such as races and an obstacle course.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Pumpkin-Run-1.mp3Every participant of the Jack-Be-Little race receives a small wearable pumpkin medal. The top three runners in both the 2K and 5K races win custom trophies. Miller explained that all the awards were designed and created in Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Pumpkin-Run-2.mp3In addition to the races, attendees can also participate in the Tough Pumpkin Obstacle Course. Miller said the timed event requires runners to navigate a pumpkin through a short series of tasks. The library foundation vice president said the event is fun for both kids and adults.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Pumpkin-Run-3.mp3Carbon County Library staff will also be running a fall-themed ceramic painting craft booth during the Pumpkin Run. A bounce house and a slide will be available for younger attendees.
New to this year’s event is a stroller decorating contest. Miller said participants can dress up their strollers with a pumpkin theme for a chance to win prizes.
Thanks to donations from local sponsors, the Carbon County Library Foundation purchased 125 pumpkins from local vendors. Everyone who buys a ticket to Saturday’s event will receive a pumpkin. A family ticket allows people to take up to three pumpkins.
Miller thanked the sponsors who helped the library put on this event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Pumpkin-Run-4.mp3The tenth annual Carbon County Library System’s Pumpkin Run is this Saturday September 28th from 9:00 to 11:00 am at the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course in Rawlins.
Tickets cost $15 for children 18 and under, $25 for adults, and $55 for a family pass. Register by 6:00 pm tomorrow for a $5 discount.
For more information about Saturday’s Pumpkin Run or to register for the event, visit the Carbon County Library System website at www.carbonlibraries.org or call the Rawlins library at 328-2618.
The post Tenth Annual Pumpkin Run Saturday At Rawlins Golf Course first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 27, 2024 |
Photo – Air Force Football team – Courtesy usafa.edu
The Wyoming – Air Force game has become something of a grudge match. Falcon fans have not seen their team win in Laramie in a dozen years.
The two schools have seen better years in their rivalries. This year, the two teams are struggling. Air Force is one-and-two, with one of those losses coming to Mountain West rival, San Jose State, 17-7, on September 7. Meanwhile, the Cowboys head into their conference opening still in search of for their first win of the year.
Last season, Air Force beat Wyoming 34-27 as a 12.5-point home favorite. The Falcons are listed as 4-point road favorites this time around, while the total sits at 34.5 points.
The mood in Laramie will be upbeat tomorrow despite the Cowboys record. Tomorrow is Homecoming. The parade will start at 11 a.m. A new event, this year, will be the Homecoming Alumni Tailgate event at the Gateway Center. The festivities start at 2 p.m. and will run until kickoff at 6.
Then, the rivalry game with much at stake for both teams.
Air has had an extra week to prepare as they come to Laramie after a bye. They’ve dropped consecutive games following a 21-6 home win against Merrimack in their season opener. The Falcons then fell to the Spartans in Week 2, before suffering a heavy 31-3 loss at Baylor in Week 3.
You can bet the Wyoming defense watched the tape of the Baylor game this week. The Bears stuffed the famed Air Force option last week, allowing just 3.4 yards per carry. Air Force quarterback John Busha went 0-for-5 through the air and ran the ball 21 times for 45 yards. He fumbled twice.
With just one returning starter on offense and three on defense, the Falcons have struggled through their first three games.
The winless Cowboys have also struggled under a new coaching staff and first year starting quarterback Evan Svoboda.
Head coach Jay Sawvel was honest about his team as they look for their first win. Sawvel remembers last year’s game when John Lee Eldridge III raced 58 yards for the go-ahead score with 2:17 on the clock as Air Force rallied from a halftime deficit to beat Wyoming 34-27.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_0927-Coach-Sawvel-1.mp3Air Force is well-coached and highly disciplined. This creates a special kind of a challenge in a rivalry game. The Cowboys will have no room for mistakes. Coach Sawvel talked this week about the task his team has, taking on the unique system of play the Falcons use—and their competitiveness.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_0927-Coach-Sawvel-2.mp3Kickoff is set for six o’clock after a day of homecoming activities in Laramie. Bigfoot 99 will be on the air at 4:30 with the pregame show. Go Pokes!
The post Grudge Match Set For Tomorrow’s Homecoming first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 27, 2024 |
Photo – Mountain West Conference logo – Courtesy Google Play
Yesterday the college of the Mountain West, under attack from the PAC 12 in this unsettled era of conference shakeups, announced a commitment from six teams that signed a Memorandum of Understanding to remain in the league.
The Air Force Academy, University of Hawaiʻi, University of Nevada-Reno, University of New Mexico, San José State University, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, and the University of Wyoming signed the new agreement with the Mountain West.
University of Wyoming Athletic Director Tom Burman said in a statement, “I feel very good about where we landed in these fluid times related to conference realignment,” Burman said. “The Mountain West Conference will move forward to be at the NCAA requirement of eight full members. We will work with Mountain West leadership to actively add new members, but at this time we cannot comment on the matter of specific institutions for expansion.”
The agreement comes after Colorado State, Boise State, Fresno State, San Diego State, and Utah State broke ranks and agreed to join the PAC-12.
As the Mountain West attorneys study up to defend the conference in a lawsuit with the PAC 12, yesterday’s agreement provides the Mountain West with a solid contractual platform that extends through June 30, 2032.
The post Six Teams Commit To Mountain West first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 26, 2024 |
Photo – Text My Gov logo – Courtesy Text My Gov web page
In Medicine Bow, town officials decided not to enroll, at this time, in the text-based alert system, Text My Gov.
In July, the Medicine Bow town council discussed the communications program Text My Gov. The Logan, Utah based company offers a subscription text alert system that allows local governments to let residents know about emergencies and upcoming events.
For example, after texting a preset number, a person will receive a message back with a series of keywords that can be used to report an issue or get more information about town activities. By using Text My Gov, a Medicine Bow resident can easily report a pothole by sending the address and a picture directly to Public Works Director Brian Lashley. While all residents are able to send messages to Text My Gov, they must voluntarily sign up for the program to receive notifications from the town.
Following an initial $500 set up fee, the text-based communications program would cost the town $1,500 a year.
Despite receiving a positive reception, the Medicine Bow town council voted to wait to enroll in Text My Gov until department heads could explain how the system will benefit them.
The Text My Gov conversation was picked back up during the September 9th Medicine Bow town council meeting. Treasurer and Clerk Karen Heath said the town has received additional Chokecherry impact assistance funding. The money can be used to pay for the subscription to the text-based alert system. Heath said the decision is in the council’s hands.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Med-Bow-Text-1.mp3Mayor Justin George said since the council last discussed adopting Text My Gov, the town has experienced a water pump failure. While not a critical emergency, Mayor George said the added impact funds would be better spent on infrastructure repairs than the alert system.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Med-Bow-Text-2.mp3Mayor George said the town must be mindful of unexpected expenses.
Councilman Lee Cook said Text My Gov has its advantages, but the low population of Medicine Bow limits the system’s usefulness. Councilwoman Crystal Mayfield said without the text-based alert system, Medicine Bow has no way of communicating emergencies to residents.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Med-Bow-Text-3.mp3Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer said Text My Gov would be helpful for communicating with older residents. Councilman Trevor Strauch agreed, but said the system is only useful if residents choose to sign up.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Med-Bow-Text-4.mp3Councilman Cook reiterated that the system can be beneficial in specific circumstances. However, the councilman said the cost doesn’t justify the program’s limited usefulness.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0926_Med-Bow-Text-5.mp3The Medicine Bow town council voted to delay a decision to adopt Text My Gov until additional impact assistance funding arrives.
The post Medicine Bow Decides To Wait On Text Alert System first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 26, 2024 |
Photo – Your Public Lands – a sign by BLM – Courtesy National Audubon Society web page
Wyoming state agencies are squaring off against the Bureau of Land Management over the BLM’s Rock Springs Resource Land Management Planning process. The federal plan to restrict use on large swaths of federal land does not sit well in Cheyenne.
Governor Mark Gordon announced Wednesday that various state departments, including the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Wyoming Game and Fish, Wyoming Department of Agriculture, Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, and Wyoming State Parks submitted protest packages to the BLM.
In a statement Wednesday, the governor indicated that the letters of protests represent an effort to correct a planning effort that has gone off-track, and no longer represents due process or legitimate public concerns.
The Department of Environmental Quality, for instance, notes that the BLM failed to recognize in its order that the DEQ has primacy of over environmental regulation in Wyoming. DEQ notes that under law, the BLM must defer to the state agency.
The state DEQ also notes that unnecessary conflict will result if the federal agency “attempts to exercise authority it does not have” regarding the regulation of air, land carbon sequestration and industrial siting.
Quoting from the agency’s official protest, the final environmental impact statement from the BLM “acknowledges WDEQ primacy with regards to water quality in Section 4.5.1, however the federal agency asserts that it can determine whether a surface water discharge should be authorized. Only the state DEQ has this authority”, the complaint Wyoming asserts.
The state agency also states that the BLM failed to recognize the WDEQ’s primacy on air quality matters derived from the federal Clean Air Act.
The state department of Environmental Quality also questions the basic math in the final EIS, noting that different quantifying numbers are used from the draft EIS to the final document without note or explanation.
The state alleges a lack of scientific grounding of the federal bureaucrats, noting that the federal response “proves how utterly deficient BLM’s understanding of Wyoming’s emissions inventory tracking is.”
The Wyoming DEQ also notes that the Biden Administration failed to address numerous technical questions in the final draft. Todd Parfitt, the DEQ director concludes that the BLM’s decision runs contrary to the cooperative intent of NEPA and ignores DEQ’s primacy in the matter.
In a separate letter, the Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission protests the BLM’s final decision, noting that the federal lands agency ignored or failed to adequately address made by organization. Tom Kropatsch, also notes that the BLM did not adhere to applicable regulations.
The WOGCC’s blistering comments note that “BLM couldn’t be bothered to make any attempt at incorporating the new royalty rate into the analysis and continues to use the legacy rate of 12.5%.”
The response from the Oil and Gas Commission forcefully attacks the lack of intelligence on the part of federal bureaucrats working for the Biden Administration. Kropatsch said the BLM ignored industry comments or provided flawed and deficient analysis.
The Wyoming oil and gas commission concludes its response by asking that the BLM rescind the final EIS and prepare a new analysis that complies with existing regulations.
Doug Miyamoto, the Director of the Department of Agriculture, notes that the proposed RMP is “exceptionally misaligned” in several areas, and offered suggestions to address the agency’s protest points.
In addition to the comments from state agency heads, the 210-page state response is crammed with technical scientific information. The data released Wednesday by governor represents a broad analytical critique by Wyoming officials of the Biden Administration’s radical plan to prohibit a wide spectrum of human activity on federal lands in Sweetwater County. Wind and solar energy development will be allowed, the BLM has reported.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department also protested the plan by the Biden-Harris administration to micromanage the wild Wyoming landscape through the final EIS, noting that the “BLM’s goals improperly pursue wildlife objectives over which they have no authority.”
The comments and supporting evidence from state agencies now go to the BLM director, who is required to respond to each protest. A Protest Resolution Report will be published by the BLM in the future.
Members of the public who commented on the draft RMP have 30 days to file a protest with the federal agency. The Governor’s Consistency Review on the document, which Governor Gordon will submit in late October, prior to the presidential election in November.
The post State Agencies Square Off Against Bureau Of Land Management first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 26, 2024 |
Photo – Spaghetti dinner – Courtesy allrecipes.com
A Rawlins resident is arranging a free spaghetti dinner as a way to repay the community for its generosity.
Next month, Carbon County School District One Maintenance Worker Barlow Curtis is hosting a free community dinner in the Jeffery Community Center in Rawlins. Curtis, who is not a professional chef, told Bigfoot99 that he will be serving an easy to make spaghetti dinner.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Free-Rawlins-Dinner-1.mp3When he was in a difficult situation, Curtis said the people of Rawlins ensured that he and his family didn’t starve. The school maintenance worker said he chose to host the free dinner as a way to show his gratitude for the support.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Free-Rawlins-Dinner-2.mp3Curtis said he is prepared to feed between 400 and 500 people.
Curtis’s free community spaghetti dinner will be held on Sunday, October 20th at the Jeffery Center from 1:00 until 4:00 pm or until all the food is gone.
The post Rawlins Man Serves Dinner As Way To Repay Kindness first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 26, 2024 |
Photo – Mountain West vs PAC 12 – Courtesy SuperWest Sports web page
In sports, the Pac-12 filed a federal lawsuit against the Mountain West on Wednesday claiming it should not be on the hook for over $50 million in penalties, marking another turn in this latest wave of conference realignment.
The “poaching penalties” were embedded in the scheduling agreement between the Mountain West and the two current members of the Pac-12 — Oregon State and Washington State. The agreement allowed the two teams to play a Mountain West schedule this year but offered protection to the Mountain West should the Pac-12 turn around and try to take members of the conference.
That is exactly what has played out. The Pac-12 now has agreements from Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State and Utah State to join in the upcoming years.
The Mountain West, head-quarterd in Colorado Springs, CO, is standing by the agreement and expects more than $10 million per school in fees (in addition to the $17 million per institution exit fees).
In its lawsuit, The Pac-12 says the poaching penalty was “forced” upon it. It claims the fees are unlawful and unenforceable.”
“To say that the Mountain West was taking advantage of the Pac-12 could not be farther from the truth,” Mountain West commissioner Gloria Nevarez said in a statement. “The Mountain West Conference wanted to help the Pac-12 schools and student-athletes, but not at the expense of the Mountain West. The Pac-12 has taken advantage of our willingness to help them and enter into a scheduling agreement with full acknowledgment and legal understanding of their obligations. Now that they have carried out their plan to recruit certain Mountain West schools, they want to walk back what they legally agreed to. There has to be a consequence to these types of actions.”
Should the lawsuit be found to have merit, it would obviously alter the financial variables in play as the conference shifting continues to play out. Currently the Mountain West and Pac-12 have seven schools apiece, falling one short of meeting the threshold to be a recognized conference.
The Mountain West nearly had agreement from eight schools to hold firm Monday, but Utah State then left when issued an invitation from the Pac-12.
Now, UNLV is said to be rethinking its position of staying in the Mountain West. Air Force could potentially rethink its position if UNLV leaves.
The leverage the Mountain West has comes from the money — in the vicinity of $130 million — it would collect from the Pac-12 defections. If that figure drops to only the exit fees — $85 million — the situation could drastically change.
The post PAC 12 Files Federal Lawsuit Against Mountain West first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 26, 2024 |
Photo – UW Cowboys flag taken onto the field – Courtesy gowyo.com
In sports, a big Mountain West football game is scheduled for Saturday in Laramie. Wyoming will host Air Force in the UW’s homecoming game.
Saturday’s matchup will be the Mountain West opener for the Cowboys. Air Force dropped their conference opener to San Jose State on September 7, 7-17 in Colorado Springs. The Falcons went onto lose at Baylor by a score of 3-31 the following week.
The Cowboys will be trying to earn their first win of the season.
Kickoff is set for 6. We’ll be on the air at 4:30 with the pregame show.
The post Cowboys Looking For First Season Win At Homecoming first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 25, 2024 |
Photo – Hospital district meeting in Hanna – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
County and municipal officials recently discussed the economic impact of losing Memorial Hospital of Carbon County if the facility were forced to close its doors.
This November, voters in Rawlins, Sinclair, Hanna, and unincorporated areas of north and west Carbon County will decide if a taxpayer funded hospital district will be created. If passed, the hospital district will impose a three-mill property tax levy to help pay for building maintenance and equipment purchases at the Rawlins medical facility.
Providing healthcare has become more expensive across the country. Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is the only hospital in Wyoming without an additional funding source, outside of seeing patients. The hospital district is needed to ensure that Memorial Hospital can continue to operate in the same capacity into the future.
Memorial Hospital staff are holding a series of meetings to educate the public about the importance of the hospital district.
So far, the conversation has focused on the medical services offered to the county through the centrally-located hospital in Rawlins and the necessity of having a local trauma center for residents and people traveling along Interstate 80.
During the September 18th Carbon County Council of Governments meeting in Hanna, Memorial Hospital Director of Strategic Operations Stephanie Hinkle explained that people must also consider the economic effect the closure of the hospital will have on the area.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Hospital-District-1.mp3The hospital building was constructed in 1972. Keeping the aging facility running costs over $1 million a year. Hinkle said the expected $1.5 million generated yearly by the hospital district will help Memorial Hospital remain operational, and perhaps in the future, construct a new building and offer additional medical procedures, such as dialysis.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Hospital-District-2.mp3Hinkle acknowledged that not all Memorial Hospital’s financial troubles stem from maintaining the 52-year-old building.
The strategic operations director told the audience that hospital staff and the board of trustees are looking for different ways to run the facility more efficiently. Administrators must adopt a new way of thinking to ensure the hospital remains in business.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Hospital-District-3.mp3New ideas are needed to bring Memorial Hospital back from the brink. Hinkle said billing has been a problem in the past. A new company has helped the hospital recover some of the missing revenue, but MHCC needs more time to recover.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Hospital-District-4.mp3Hinkle said Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is undergoing a substantial change to the way it does business. While the hospital district won’t fix everything, Hinkle said the added funds will give hospital administrators more time to correct what the money can fix.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Hospital-District-5.mp3Hanna Mayor Jayson Nordquist asked Hinkle if the hospital district would still be necessary if Memorial Hospital had been managed correctly in the past. Hinkle said in her opinion, the increased costs and complexities of rural healthcare made the hospital district an inevitability.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Hospital-District-6.mp3Mayor Nordquist said the general perception of Memorial Hospital is that it has been poorly managed for decades. The Hanna mayor asked how the hospital district will fix the facility’s administrative issues.
Rawlins Mayor Terry Weickum explained that mocking the hospital’s financial troubles is a common occurrence. However, Mayor Weickum said in his opinion, Memorial Hospital has been run well.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Hospital-District-7.mp3Hanna Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales asked Hinkle what will happen if the hospital district fails during November’s general election. If the measure fails, Hinkle said, the board of trustees will petition county commissioners to add the hospital district to a future ballot.
In the meantime, without the added income from the district, Memorial Hospital will have to seriously scale back operations.
The creation of the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County hospital district will be on Rawlins, Sinclair, and Hanna voters’ ballots this November. Voters in those areas will also select a five-person board of directors to manage the hospital district, assuming the measure passes.
Carbon County Higher Education Center is hosting a hospital district board of directors candidates forum on Tuesday, October 8th, beginning at 6:00 pm.
The post Officials Throughout County Meet In Hanna first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 25, 2024 |
Photo – An immigration detention center – file photo
On the floor of the U.S. Senate on Tuesday, Wyoming Senator John Barrasso blasted Vice President Kamala Harris for her part in increasing food prices for working families and doubling the number of illegal immigrants doing time in Cheyenne jails at taxpayer expense.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Sen-Barrasso-1.mp3Barrasso concluded his remarks saying that Vice President Harris is complicit in the U.S. Border disaster that has resulted in perhaps more than 20-million illegal immigrants who have invaded the country since she and Joe Biden took office in the contested 2020 election.
Barrasso pinned the blame for what he described as Venezuelan gangs turning apartment complexes in Aurora into “hell holes” directly on the Biden Administration’s lack of border controls.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Sen-Barrasso-2.mp3Cheyenne, Wyoming is 108 miles from Aurora, a two-hour drive. Since the Biden-Harris Administration took office, Laramie County law enforcement reports that the illegal immigrant population in its jails has more than doubled.
One is a suspected member of the gang, Tren de Aragua (or “TdA”), that took over an apartment complex in Aurora.
According to media reports, American intelligence agencies believe there are over 1,000 TdA members in the United States right now. Since the estimate comes from Biden Administration, the number could be low-balled and may run as high as several thousand members.
Gang members are often identified by visible tattoos. A popular one is anything commemorating Michael Jordan or his jersey number, 23, but clocks, trains, crowns and gas masks are also favored by gang members.
Since Denver labelled itself a “sanctuary city,” leaders and agencies in the “Mile High City” do not cooperate with the law enforcement or U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement when illegal immigrants are involved.
TdA members have been tied to horrific crimes, including the murder of Laken Riley, a nursing student murdered while jogging at the University of Georgia.
The post Wyoming Senator Blasts Biden/Harris For Wyoming’s Immigrants In Detention Centers first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 25, 2024 |
Photo – Albany County School District representatives Alex Krassin and Kim Sorenson and House 14 Representative Trey Sherwood cut the ribbon to open Antelope Creek School – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
The Antelope Creek School held its official grand opening Tuesday in Garrett, which is in Albany County.
Until recently, its new schoolhouse sat in Medicine Bow.
An hour north of Rock River, along a bumpy dirt road, sits the small ranching community of Garrett, Wyoming. For the past two years, Anne Anderson and her husband, Carson, have been in a legal battle with Albany County School District Number One to build a school for their two young children. The Andersons were told that the low population of Garrett did not warrant its own schoolhouse.
That all changed yesterday afternoon. Officials from Carbon and Albany Counties gathered with members of Albany County School District Number One for the Antelope Creek School ribbon cutting ceremony.
The schoolhouse is a building previously owned by Carbon County. The structure, which is split into two living quarters, was purchased using impact assistance funds with the intention of housing a sheriff’s deputy and road worker in Medicine Bow. However, the home was never needed and the building sat vacant for five years.
Upon learning of the Anderson’s demands for a school in their rural community, Carbon County Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones offered to sell the unused Medicine Bow building to the Albany School District for $80,000. After the sale, the modular building was moved from Medicine Bow to Garrett over the course of two days, traveling nearly 40 miles on narrow unpaved roads.
During the ribbon cutting ceremony, Albany County School Chief Operations Officer Randy Wilkison thanked the Carbon County commissioners and the state legislature, who contributed $300,000 toward the project, for making the Antelope Creek School a reality.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Antelope-Creek-School-1.mp3Next, Wyoming State Construction Department Manager John Rexius read a proclamation from Governor Mark Gordon stating that the establishment of the Antelope Creek School will advance the skills, knowledge, and achievements of Wyoming’s youth.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Antelope-Creek-School-2.mp3Governor Gordon was not present at yesterday’s ribbon cutting ceremony.
Albany County School District Number One Superintendent Dr. John Goldhardt said the Antelope Creek School would not have happened without the dedication of the Anderson family.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Antelope-Creek-School-3.mp3Rock River School Principal Stacie Anfinson, who will also oversee the Antelope Creek School, introduced teacher, Lexi Horblait. Anfinson said Horblait is a perfect fit for the small ranching community.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Antelope-Creek-School-4.mp3Horblait is from Wheatland and has been a teacher for the past four years. After learning about the opportunity to teach in Garrett, Horblait said her love of the ranching lifestyle compelled her to apply for the job.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/0925_Antelope-Creek-School-5.mp3House District 14 Representative Trey Sherwood and Albany County School District Board of Trustees members Kim Sorenson and Alex Krassin cut the ribbon, marking the official opening of the Antelope Creek School.
The first and only students enrolled for this school year are the Andersons’ children, Emmet and Waverley.
The post Small Community In Albany County Opens School first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 25, 2024 |
Photo – Mountain West Bracket – Courtesy Mountain West Wire web page
Wyoming opens conference play on Saturday against Air Force.
With other teams, including Colorado State, Boise State, Fresno State and San Diego State, departing the Mountain West for what they believe will be greener pastures in the PAC-12, the Cowboys and the Falcons will remain in the Mountain West.
The cost to leave the league won’t be cheap. Each school will be hit with an $18 million dollar exit fee. The PAC-12 will help pay a portion of the fee, but a number has not been announced. The so-called Pacific Conference will also pay $43 million in poaching fees to the Mountain West for taking schools like CSU and Boise State which are more than a stone’s throw away from the ocean.
The transition is expected to take place over the next two years, with the 2026-2027 academic year marking the official start of CSU’s PAC-12 membership. CSU has promised to maintain its traditional rivalries, including the Border War matchup with Wyoming.
Still each of the departing schools will see a tab from the Mountain West for about $110 million in exit fees and penalties.
Despite poaching the Mountain West, the PAC 12 will still be two schools short of the eight they need to have locked down in two years by NCAA rule.
Anything can happen, and has in college football where brand loyalty is meaningless. Just a year ago, ten PAC 12 schools left the conference for greener pastures after league officials were unable to secure lucrative media deals.
So, coming this Saturday, two teams that will remain in the Mountain West will meet again in War Memorial Stadium.
The Cowboys, who have scored only 51 points this season while giving up 143, come into the matchup 0-and-4, tied with winless New Mexico at the bottom of the conference standings.
Air Force is 1-and-2 overall, with one of those losses coming in Conference play on September 7 in a 17-7 defeat to San Jose State on September 7. The Falcons had a bye last week.
Saturday’s kickoff is set for 6 p.m. Mountain Time on Saturday night.
Air Force plays Navy the following week with Wyoming taking a bye on October 5.
The post Four Schools Consider Leaving Mountain West first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 24, 2024 |
Photo – Loren Teense Willford – Obituary photo
Governor Mark Gordon has ordered the Wyoming State Flag to be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol in Cheyenne and in Carbon, Albany and Sweetwater Counties from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, September 28 in honor and memory of Loren “Teense” Wilford. Mr. Wilford represented District 47 in the Wyoming House of Representatives from 1987-1988 and from 1993-2002.
Wilford passed away September 3, 2024.
A “Celebration of Life” ceremony will be held this Saturday, September 28 at 2:00 p.m. at the Saratoga-Middle High School Gymnasium on West Elm Avenue.
The post Governor Orders State Flag Lowered In Memory Of Local Resident first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 3, 2024 |
Photo – Wyoming Senior Citizens Inc logo – Courtesy Wyoming Senior Citizens Inc
On September 18th, representatives from Wyoming Senior Citizens Incorporated will be in Rawlins to help older residents navigate the complexities of Medicare and assist caregivers.
Wyoming Senior Health Insurance Program, or SHIP, Assistant Program Director Tisha Tuttle and Carbon County Care Coordinator Heidi Clark will be at the Carbon County Public Library Main Branch in Rawlins for a health fair. Tuttle explained how SHIP helps senior citizens with their government health insurance questions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03180346/0830_Senior-Health-1.mp3Tuttle said her organization’s services are offered free of charge. The assistant program director said SHIP has teamed up with various state and federal agencies to help senior citizens get the most out of their government health insurance.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03180405/0830_Senior-Health-2.mp3Tuttle said only 21% of people eligible for Wyoming Medicare assistance are taking advantage of the program.
So far in 2024, Tuttle said the Wyoming Senior Health Insurance Program has helped 1,895 people with their health insurance questions. The assistant program manager said she expects that number to dramatically increase during the Medicare open enrollment period beginning in October.
Carbon County Care Coordinator Heidi Clark will also be on hand to talk about the National Family Caregiver Support Program. Program Manager Amanda Glanz said her organization provides help to caregivers of senior citizens who are unable to care for themselves. Glanz said the Caregiver Support Program offers assistance with a variety of everyday tasks.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03180407/0830_Senior-Health-3.mp3The National Family Caregiver Support Program also provides education for caregivers.
Currently, Glanz said only two Carbon County residents use her organization’s services. She said older Wyoming residents tend to be reluctant to ask for help.
However, Glanz said the program isn’t meant to take away anyone’s independence. Instead, Glanz said the program simply makes it easier for senior citizens to age with dignity.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03180409/0830_Senior-Health-4.mp3Both the Wyoming Senior Health Insurance and National Family Caregiver Support Programs are free to use.
Visit the Carbon County Library, located at 215 West Buffalo Street, on Wednesday, September 18th, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, to speak to a Wyoming Senior Citizens Incorporated representative.
The post Non-Profit Will Be At Rawlins Library To Assist Senior Citizens first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 3, 2024 |
Photo – CAT 77 B Haul Truck – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Hanna officials may create a mining memorial out of a large dump truck formerly used in the coal mines.
During a special Hanna town council meeting last Thursday, the governing body discussed the possibility of moving a 62-ton dump truck to Veteran’s Park. Described as a life-sized Tonka truck, the CAT 77 B Haul Truck was used in the ARCH Mineral mine and has sat idle since the mine closed in 2009. The truck would be turned into a memorial to the town’s mining past.
At last Thursday’s meeting, Mayor Jayson Nordquist explained his plan to display the former coal mining truck in the park next to the Hanna Recreation Center.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164618/0903_Hanna-Monument-1.mp3Mayor Nordquist said he discovered that the truck is owned by a local towing company. The mayor said the company has agreed to donate the vehicle to the town in exchange for a $25,000 tax write-off.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164621/0903_Hanna-Monument-2.mp3Hanna Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales messaged Bigfoot99 to say that Mayor Nordquist mentioned the incorrect trucking company during Thursday’s special meeting. The old haul truck is actually owned by Elk Mountain Diesel Towing and Recovery.
At last week’s special Hanna town council meeting, Mayor Nordquist said several heavy-duty mechanics have examined the haul truck and determined that it may run again. The mayor said getting the truck operational should not cost a lot of money.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164623/0903_Hanna-Monument-3.mp3However, if the large dump truck can’t be driven, Mayor Nordquist said it would need to be trailered to Veteran’s Park. The mayor said moving the truck in that manner will be expensive unless the towing company is willing to donate its services.
Turning the haul truck into a memorial won’t be as simple as parking it next to the recreation center. Mayor Nordquist said the truck and area will require potentially expensive alterations before the vehicle can be displayed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164626/0903_Hanna-Monument-4.mp3Councilman Bill Dys asked if grants exist that are used specifically for preserving history. Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales said she’s aware of many grants, but she isn’t sure that any can be used to pay for the preservation of the haul truck. Clerk Gonzales agreed with Mayor Nordquist that the large truck has the potential to draw tourists to the town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164629/0903_Hanna-Monument-5.mp3Treasurer Ann Calvert said Plattoga Aggregates owner Ryan Munks examined the haul truck and discovered that it needs a new set of expensive batteries. Treasurer Calvert said she supports the creation of a mining monument as long as the town isn’t forced to pay a lot to move the truck.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164632/0903_Hanna-Monument-6.mp3Calvert said the old haul truck will need a lot of work before it can be put on display. The treasurer said Hanna residents may complain about the cost of moving the truck, especially after the council voted to close the rec center. Mayor Nordquist said the rec center monopolized a huge portion of the town’s yearly budget. The mayor said transporting the haul truck to Veteran’s Park will cost significantly less than keeping the rec center open.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164634/0903_Hanna-Monument-7.mp3The council members said they need to make sure residents are aware of the cost of the project before beginning any work. Councilman David Felix suggested posting about the project on a new lighted display sign slated to be installed outside of the town hall. Mayor Nordquist said he expects the residents to be excited when the truck is moved to its new home.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164636/0903_Hanna-Monument-8.mp3The Hanna town council expressed support for the idea, but only if the cost to move the truck is low or covered by grants. The governing body will discuss the project again during the September 10th regular Hanna town council meeting.
Mayor Nordquist said the CAT 77 B Haul Truck is the last piece of equipment left over from the town’s coal mining past.
The post Mining Memorial Topic Of Discussion For Hanna Officials first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 3, 2024 |
Photo – Wyoming and Arizona State game, last Saturday – Courtesy gowyo.com
At least one fan was so upset with Wyoming’s performance Saturday night that they mailed a death threat to Head Coach Jay Sawvel.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164639/0903_Jaw-Sawvell-1.mp3Quarterback Evan Svoboda was gone by the end of the fourth quarter early Sunday morning after failing to produce much offense. Two seconds remained on the clock when Wyoming finally got on the scoreboard, avoiding a shutout loss in Tucson against a dominating Arizona State team.
Keith Kelly and Kevin McKinney had the call as Wyoming avoided leaving without a single score in a brutal 48 to 7 loss.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164642/0903_Wyo_Az-1.mp3The numbers say Wyoming didn’t come ready.
The Cowboys got the ball first. They started off-kilter against the Big 12 opponent in the opening drive. On the second play, with less than 30-seconds off the clock, Evan Svoboda threw a pick six.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164644/0903_Wyo_Az-2.mp3Before the first quarter was done, ASU would add a field goal and another touchdown for a 17-0 lead over Wyoming.
The game went downhill from there.
The Sun Devils put up 499 of total offense and held the Cowboys to just 118. ASU passed for 258 yards and put up 27 first downs without a single turnover.
The Wyoming offense, with new coordinator Jay Johnson, a new system, new language and a new quarterback, bumbled their way through the first quarter, picking up flags for an illegal formation and two false starts.
At the 10:01 mark of the first quarter, Svoboda threw a second pick. Arizona State turned it into a field goal.
Wyoming left tackle Nathan Geiger, a new piece on the offensive line, left the game in the first quarter. Defensive end Dvonne Harris came out a few minutes later.
The Sun Devils scored again on a 13-yard DeCarlos Brooks run to the end zone as time ran out in the first quarter. Wyoming was down 11-nothing.
Penalties and miscues continued to dog the Pokes. Arizona running back Cameraon Skateboo ran for a touchdown at the 9:47 mark as Wyoming kept digging a deeper hole. Arizona State added another field goal at the 4:28 mark to make it a 27-0 game.
In the first half, Arizona State converted 14 first downs. The Cowboys had three as Svoboda struggled throughout the night.
The Sun Devils continued to move the ball in the third quarter, scoring three more times to run up the score to 48-0. For their part, Cowboys picked up just one first down in the third quarter.
Finally in fourth quarter, The Cowboys put up a score and got out of Tempe with a 48-7 loss. Freshman quarterback Kaden Anderson came in with less than six minutes in a last gasp effort to make something happen.
Coach Jay Sawvel walked the sideline all night wearing a tense, unhappy look. After the game, he made no excuses for the blowout loss.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164646/0903_Wyo_Az-3.mp3Sawvell acknowledged that his players and coaches have a lot of improving to do as they get ready for week two. Wyoming’s home opener is this Saturday in Laramie. The Cowboys will host Idaho in a kickoff set for 1:30 in the afternoon.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/03164648/0903_Wyo_Az-4.mp3The Wyoming defense was on the field most of the night. The Wyoming offense gained 124 yards and lost 49.
Tyler King picked up the biggest Cowboy reception against Arizona State with a 23 yard catch.
Jake Culbreath punted the ball eight times for 376. His longest was 59.
On the night, Wyoming coughed up three turnovers and had no takeaways.
The Cowboys may catch a break this week in Saturday’s home opener. Idaho’s starting quarterback suffered broken collarbone in the opener against Oregon. Redshirt freshman Jack Wagner will make his first-career start against the Cowboys in Laramie on Saturday.
The post Wyoming Falls To Arizona State In Tempe first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 30, 2024 |
Photo – Department of Veteran’s Affairs logo – Courtesy VA.gov
Officials from the Cheyenne Veterans Affairs office met in Rawlins to discuss healthcare with local vets. The meeting was held in the basement of the Rawlins City Hall.
Many, of the roughly 20 veterans in attendance, said they were satisfied with the care they were receiving from the Rawlins clinic. However, the vets expressed nearly universal disapproval of the difficult to navigate telephone system needed to make appointments.
Patient Representative Supervisor for Cheyenne and Northern Colorado Angelo Corbin encouraged everyone to use a program called My Healthevet. Corbin said veterans can make and confirm appointments through the application.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30132524/0829_VA-Meeting-1.mp3With over 26,000 veterans living in the Rocky Mountain coverage area, and only 1,500 VA employees, Corbin said phone wait times can be lengthy. The patient representative supervisor told the veterans that My Healthevet can also be used to request a call back from their physician.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30132527/0829_VA-Meeting-2.mp3State Veterans Service Officer Emily Study also encouraged the veterans to use My Healthevet. Study provides step-by-step instructions to sign up to the government program. The veterans service officer recommended using the simpler phone application over the web-based version.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30132529/0829_VA-Meeting-3.mp3Bigfoot99 spoke to Cheyenne Veteran Experience Officer Mel Turner and Patient Representative Supervisor Corbin about this meeting earlier in the month. Both Turner and Corbin said veterans were telling staff that the Rawlins VA clinic was rumored to close in the near future. At yesterday’s meeting, Cheyenne VA Medical Center Associate Chief Nurse Kim Johnson told attendees that she is unaware of any plans to shutter the Rawlins clinic. However, Nurse Johnson said the decision is out of her hands.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30132532/0829_VA-Meeting-4.mp3One veteran asked if the VA still offered transportation to out-of-town appointments. State Veterans Service Officer Study said with appropriate notice, a free bus can be made available to all Carbon County vets.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30132534/0829_VA-Meeting-5.mp3Officials with Veterans Affairs encouraged veterans to call 307-778-7550 extension 1411 for more information about the services offered through the Cheyenne VA.
The post Veterans Affairs Meet With Veterans In Rawlins first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 30, 2024 |
Photo – MHCC – Bigfoot99 file photo
Memorial Hospital of Carbon County has been forced to downgrade its trauma rating due to the high cost of staff.
The Rawlins hospital has been struggling financially for a long time. The hospital board of trustees has tried many tactics to bring the healthcare facility back from the brink of insolvency, including bringing in new administrators, changing payment options, and the potential creation of a taxpayer-funded hospital district.
During Tuesday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Memorial Hospital Interim Chief Executive Officer Gerald Parton explained that the facility has reduced its emergency care capabilities. Parton said that maintaining the current rating level requires the hospital to have a general surgeon available around-the-clock.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30110741/0830_MHCC-1.mp3State and regional authorities, often in conjunction with the American College of Surgeons, determines a hospital’s trauma level.
To obtain level one status, a facility must offer comprehensive care with specialists, advanced surgical facilities, and research programs available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Level One hospitals handle the most severely injured patients.
A trauma level of five is considered the lowest designation for hospitals. A level five facility performs the initial evaluation, stabilization, and diagnosis of a patient. After being stabilized, the patient is transferred to a higher-level trauma center.
Speaking to the board of commissioners on Tuesday, Interim CEO Parton said the hospital has been forced to use traveling doctors, referred to as locums, after Dr. John Lumb retired earlier this year. Using out-of-town doctors to run the hospital’s trauma center is extremely expensive, said Parton.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30110744/0830_MHCC-2.mp3Parton said Memorial Hospital has a surgeon come once a week to perform pre-planned surgeries. The interim CEO also said if a new full-time surgeon can be found, the hospital may begin offering advanced trauma care once again.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30110746/0830_MHCC-3.mp3On a positive note, Parton said the Wyoming Breast Cancer Initiative has provided funding for Memorial Hospital of Carbon County to hold a breast cancer awareness event called Mammos and Mimosas in October. Breast cancer blogger Cathy Holman, from the website Prairie Wife in Heels, will be a guest speaker.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30110748/0830_MHCC-4.mp3Carbon County resident and breast cancer survivor Deb Engstrom will also speak at the event.
The Mammos and Mimosas breast cancer awareness event is Saturday, October 19th, from 10:00am to noon at the Rawlins Depot Building, located at 104 4th Street.
Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is also offering mammograms after the event. The breast cancer screenings are being offered on a first come, first serve basis. People are encouraged to call 324-8381 to schedule a test.
Representatives from the Wyoming Cancer Coalition will be on site during the October event to provide information about state funding assistance available for breast cancer screening exams.
The post MHCC Downgrades Trauma Center Rating first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 30, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga Fire Department vehicles – Bigfoot99 file photo
The City of Rawlins has donated a fire truck to the Saratoga Fire Department. The town is also waiting for another truck, this one purchased from Rock Springs, to arrive.
On August 6th, the Rawlins city council voted to gift an unneeded 26-year-old fire truck to the Saratoga Fire Department. During the August 20th Saratoga town council meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis announced that the truck has arrived. Mayor Davis said the town’s firefighters are pleased with their newest acquisition.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30110750/0830_Toga-Fire-Trucks-1.mp3On August 6th, Assistant Fire Chief Tom Westring informed the Saratoga town council that the Rock Springs Fire Department offered the town a chance to purchase a 24-year-old ladder truck for $5,000. At the time, the council members were surprised by the low cost of the truck. After being assured by Assistant Chief Westring that the deal was legitimate, the council unanimously voted to purchase the truck.
During the August 20th Saratoga town council meeting, Mayor Davis said the former Rock Springs fire truck is undergoing minor maintenance work. The mayor said the truck should arrive in town soon.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30110752/0830_Toga-Fire-Trucks-2.mp3Mayor Davis reported that the fire department is considering selling a partially operational truck. The mayor said he expects to hear a decision about the truck at a future town council meeting.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30110754/0830_Toga-Fire-Trucks-3.mp3During the August 6th discussion, Assistant Fire Chief Westring mentioned that the new trucks are likely to improve Saratoga’s Insurance Services Office, or ISO, rating. A low ISO rating indicates that the town has strong fire protection, which can lead to lower home insurance premiums for residents.
The post Saratoga Fire Receives Truck From City Of Rawlins first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 30, 2024 |
Photo – Pokes in practice – Courtesy gowyo.com
Cowboy football: Wyoming will face a rebuilt Arizona State football team tomorrow in Tempe.
The new look Sun Devils offense begins with signal caller. Earlier this month, redshirt freshman transfer Sam Leavitt was named the starting quarterback for the opener against Wyoming. Leavitt beat out transfer Jeff Sims (Georgia Tech/Nebraska).
In four games at Michigan State last season as a true freshman, Leavitt completed 15-of-23 passes for 139 yards and two touchdowns. Sun Devils Head Coach Kenny Dillingham, who juggled eight different quarterbacks last year’s losing season, said Leavitt played with consistency and versatility through summer camp to earn the starting job for tomorrow’s opener.
First year Wyoming head coach Jay Sawvel has Leavitt circled on his chart.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30110756/0830_UW-footbll-1.mp3Leavitt is an Oregon native who won Gatorade Player of the Year as a senior at West Linn High School.
Sawvel also has running back Cam Skattebo circled on his chart. The 5-11 senior from California was a finalist last season of the Paul Hornung Award for the nation’s most versatile player. An all-round player, #4 Skatebo recorded 50 snaps at quarterback.. He also punted the ball eight times, and is ranked 10th among all FBS and FCS running backs with 2,681 career rushing yards, averaging 6.4 yards per carry.
Sawvel admits Skattebo is a powerhouse.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/30110757/0830_UW-footbll-2.mp3Another piece to the puzzle for Arizona State is wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, who transferred to the Sun Devils this year. In his freshman year at Colorado, Tyson led all receivers in Boulder with 470 yards and five touchdowns. His 21.36 yards per catch last season was fourth best in the nation.
The Sun Devils have a lot of tools at the ready. The Cowboys defense will be looking to stop them. Tomorrow’s matchup will the first time in 47 years that UW will play former WAC rival Arizona State. The Sun Devils did not want to play in Laramie, so tomorrow’s matchup is one-and-done.
The matchup kicks off at 8:30 here on Bigfoot 99 and on Fox Sports 1. We’ll be on the air with the pregame show at 7:00. Keith Kelley will have the radio call, veteran color-man Kevin McKinney will also be in the booth. Erick Pauley will have the sideline reports here on Bigfoot..
The post ASU Rebuilt Its Team Wyoming Has A Powerhouse Player first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 29, 2024 |
Photo – Local resident Dick Perue – Bigfoot99 file photo
After hearing that some folks, new to the area and who now inhabit seats on local boards, want to change Saratoga’s tried-and-true motto, an angry Dick Perue, the veteran newspaperman, wrote to the radio station, saying, “The last thing the town of Saratoga needs is to throw away its nearly century old slogan of “Where the Trout Leap in Main Street” and start all over again!”
The now-retired former newspaper publisher continued. Perue quotes an editorial from an April, 1927 issue of ‘The Saratoga Sun’ that declares that the city now has a slogan. The pithy phrase, about excitable trout, was borrowed from the title of a short story written about Saratoga as a resort town welcoming those weary of the modern, cynical world.
The editorial, which predates the Great Depression, continues, “Many local businessmen believe that Saratoga has gained a very valuable advertising slogan through the recent article written for ‘Outdoor Life’ by Billy Oneal who was one of our summer visitors last season.
Mr. Oneal’s article was entitled, ‘Where the Trout Leap in Main Street.’ The author of the century-old article continues, “Which when we think of it, is an absolute fact, and a statement calculated to arrest the attention of any tourist or sportsman who aims or desires to spend a part or all of his vacation in reach of good fishing water.
“All former efforts to evolve a slogan for advertising purposes have failed to bring forth anything as good,” the article continues, “And this wording is now being used by several merchants on all envelopes and other printed matter which they have occasion to send out, and it is expected will soon be in general use by practically all local people and given the widest possible circulation. It gives us very valuable publicity and the cost of using the slogan is very little, if anything.”
In his letter to this radio station, Perue declared that the slogan has withstood the test of time. “Throughout Saratoga’s 150 year history, hundreds of articles have been written about the town and surrounding area, with most making note of the town’s catchy moniker.
History shows the evolution of the slogan. Saratoga’s first motto was “Where Fish Jump.” It was used from the early 1880’s to about 1910. With Saratoga’s reputation spreading throughout the country, a 1910 story about the little town on the North Platte River in “The Outing Magazine” was entitled, “The Greatest Trout Fishing Town in the World.”
That message was spelled out on the town’s welcome mat to the world until 1927.
Saratoga’s current motto — “Where the Trout Leap in Main Street” — was borrowed from the title of a 1927 “Outdoor Life” magazine article on the area by writer Billy Oneal. Local lore has it that Oneal had been sitting on the riverside porch of what is now the Sierra Madre Trout Club at the corner of Main & River streets observing the aerial antics of Upper North Platte River trout as they jumped from the waters flowing over “Main Street” which extended out into the river.”
Perue writes, “Even in this age of unrelenting hype, the slogan still seems perfectly appropriate and the last thing most residents want is to see it changed!”
“If you don’t think it’s unique just call up our motto on the internet and every time it will pop-up Saratoga’s popular slogan,” Peru writes. “I have yet to see any other town in the whole world bragging: ‘Saratoga, Wyoming, Where the Trout Leap in Main Street’!”
And wasn’t that the whole point of the critique offered by local tourist gurus—something unique and specific to the locale?
In his letter to the radio station, Peru notes that that in the town of Saratoga, only one person might benefit if local busybodies succeed at ramming through a new slogan—his nephew, who owns a printing shop.
The upset, former newspaper publisher notes in his letter that Alan Williams at Perue Printing would be paid handsomely to re-print the thousands of brochures, booklets, letterheads, envelopes, business cards, etc., etc. with a new, unneeded and unwanted motto at a high and unnecessary expense to every citizen.
The lifelong Saratoga resident, who is also a fisherman, notes that he wants to shout to the world that he is from Saratoga, Wyoming, “Where the Trout Leap in Main Street!”
This radio station notes that “Where the Trout Leap on Main Street” has been part of the official slogan of Saratoga since 1927. Since then it has withstood the cultural and social changes that have swept across the nation, from the lean Depression years to the post-World War 2 euphoria, the giddy 1960s, the 70s funk, as wells as the lost years of the 1980s and 1990s.
The town’s trusty slogan has remained an unerring truth through it all.
Following World War II a new logo was designed and featured the art work of renowned artist Virginia Large, but the trusty slogan remained. Over the years many different drawings of rising trout have been depicted, but the message has always been the same.
The post Local Writes Letter To Radio Station About Town Slogan first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 29, 2024 |
Photo – A local polling place – Bigfoot99 file photo
November’s election candidates have been finalized. Write-in nominations changed the outcome of several primary races last week.
In Hanna, write-in candidate Charlie George bumped Jerry Walter from the mayoral race. George will run against “Oats” Briggs in November. Meanwhile, Paul Cruz received enough write-in votes to be added to the Hanna town council election.
In Medicine Bow, former mayor Lucy Schofield garnered the required number of write-in votes to be eligible to run for both a four-year and an unexpected two-year town council seat. However, Schofield cannot run in both races and must decide which seat to pursue.
Saratoga residents voted to add Josh Wood to the town council ballot.
Speaking at Tuesday’s Board of County Commissioners meeting, County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett said Wood declined his nomination and Schofield chose to run for a two-year term on the Medicine Bow town council.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29111240/0829_Election-1.mp3Clerk Bartlett said a few races lacked the required number of votes to add a write-in candidate to November’s ballot. Voters will still be given the opportunity to write in a candidate during the general election, though.
The county clerk said she was surprised by the lack of voter turnout. Clerk Bartlett said only about half of Carbon County’s registered voters participated in last week’s primary election.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29111243/0829_Election-2.mp3Last year, in an effort to combat election fraud, Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray banned residents from changing political party affiliation after May 15th. During Tuesday’s county commissioners meeting, Clerk Bartlett said the rule change drastically reduced the number of voter registration change forms. The county clerk said registered voters could only change their names and addresses this year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29111245/0829_Election-3.mp3Clerk Bartlett urged more Carbon County residents to get involved with the election process. The county clerk criticized people who challenged the credibility of her staff despite not knowing how the process works.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29111247/0829_Election-4.mp3Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones said not to believe everything you see on social media. Clerk Bartlett agreed. The county clerk recommended following her office’s Facebook page and signing up to the county-wide notification system, called Alert Sense, to receive trusted election information.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29111249/0829_Election-5.mp3Clerk Bartlett and the entire board of county commissioners thanked every volunteer who helped with last week’s primary election.
The post Primary Election Candidates Finalized first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 29, 2024 |
Photo – Strand Theater in Rawlins – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Rawlins, officials are preparing to choose a contractor to test for hazardous materials in specific properties within the city.
In 1995, the United States Environmental Protection Agency created the Brownfields Program to provide financial assistance to municipalities with buildings that have known or suspected environmental contamination. Cleaning up a vacant site polluted with harmful chemicals or other materials is often very costly. Brownfields grants help landowners pay to safely demolish hazardous structures and clean up the surrounding land.
In April of 2023, Rawlins officials submitted four sites to the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality for Brownfields consideration: the Pink Motel, the Ferguson building, a property on Pine Street, and the old Strand Theater. The federal government awarded Rawlins $500,000 to determine if any of the properties are contaminated.
During the August 20th Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Tom Sarvey announced that a request for proposal, or RFP, has been submitted to hire contractors to assess the properties for hazardous materials.
Sarvey said two companies have expressed interest in the project so far. The city manager said all proposals must be submitted by the middle of September.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29111235/0829_Brownfield-1.mp3Sarvey said he’ll review the applications after the deadline has passed and recommend a contractor to the city council. If hazards are detected in any of the properties, the city can request additional funding from the EPA or Wyoming DEQ to clean up the sites. The remediated properties can then be redeveloped to bring additional tax revenue to the city.
The post Rawlins Officials Receiving Bids For Hazardous Material Testing In Brownfield Buildings first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 29, 2024 |
Photo – Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, AZ – Courtesy thesundevils.com
In Tempe this week, lots of questions have been swirling around the Sun Devils football team at Arizona State.
ASU is trying to recover from last year’s three-win season where the quarterback position was a revolving door under first-year head coach Kenny Dillingham. Six different players rotated through the QB position last year as Dillingham was reduced to mix-and-match as he dealt with with an injury-riddled team.
A new offensive coordinator arrived at ASU this year.
Heading into his second season, Dillingham is dealing with a new set of problems. Defensive back Macen Williams retired from football and potential starting offensive lineman Jalen Klemm is reportedly out indefinitely with a health issue.
On Monday, Dillingham said linebacker Tate Romney would miss 4-6 weeks with a broken hand while offensive lineman Sean Na’a and defensive end Prince Dorbah deal with leg issues that would sideline them 2-4 games.
Then there’s that other problem. The Wyoming Cowboys arrive in Tucson Saturday night looking to pick up where they left off last season—with a win.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29111251/0829_Kenny-Dillingham-1.mp3Dillingham sounds a bit like the way a dog looks when its chasing its tail. He admits it. He’s trying to figure out what wrinkles the Cowboys have added to their offense and defense in the offseason.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29111253/0829_Kenny-Dillingham-2.mp3For ASU, only a handful of starters returned this year. They include running back Cam Skattebo and 2023 All-Pac-12 honorable mention center Leif Fautanu.
New coordinator Marcus Arroyo, who put some time in Laramie a few years ago, will call plays for the offense. ASU is hoping for more predictability on offense this year after stabilizing the quarterback position. The Sun Devils offense promises to be more stabilized this year.
The big question in Tempe this week is, “Can the offensive line keep quarterback Sam Leavitt upright against the Wyoming defense on Saturday night?”.
Stay tuned. We’ll find out Saturday night. The season kicks off at 8:30 here on Bigfoot 99. The pregame show starts at 7 p.m.
The post ASU Sun Devils Prepare For Arrival of UW Cowboys first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 28, 2024 |
Photo – SPD patch logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Saratoga town council votes to delay hiring a new drug sniffing dog until the contract can be reviewed.
Last year, the Saratoga Police K-9 Officer tragically ended his own life. Since that time, the Saratoga Police Department has been without a police dog.
In March, the Saratoga town council voted to hire to two new police officers: Deputy Casey Lehr and Lieutenant John Moore. Deputy Lehr was a certified K-9 handler with the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office. At the time, Police Chief Mike Morris informed the governing body that he would like to eventually use Lehr’s training to obtain a new police dog for Saratoga.
During the August 20th Saratoga town council meeting, Chief Morris presented a K-9 lease agreement between the town and Officer Lehr. The police chief explained that Lehr purchased and paid for the training of a police dog on his own.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/28092035/0828_Toga-K9-Officer-1.mp3Chief Morris said the K-9 lease agreement will reimburse Officer Lehr for the care and maintenance of his two-year-old police dog. Like Officer Casner before him, Lehr will be given one additional hour of pay every day.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/28092037/0828_Toga-K9-Officer-2.mp3In total, the town would pay Officer Lehr $9,168.90 a year to care for his police dog.
Chief Morris said the new K-9 lease agreement is nearly identical to what the town had with Officer Casner. The police chief said the new contract was reviewed and approved by former Town Attorney Patrick Brady, who wrote the previous contract.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/28092039/0828_Toga-K9-Officer-3.mp3If the agreement is accepted, Chief Morris said Officer Lehr’s dog will be ready for service within 60 to 90 days.
Councilman Jerry Fluty asked who is legally responsible, under the terms of the contract, for police dog.
Chief Morris said like a typical lease agreement, the town is responsible for the actions of the K-9 unit.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/28092043/0828_Toga-K9-Officer-4.mp3Chief Morris said the police dog is currently only certified to detect drugs, but could be trained to perform additional duties in the future. Mayor Chuck Davis told the police chief that he’ll need to seek the council’s permission before changing the terms of the agreement.
Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked how far along Officer Lehr’s dog was in the training process. Chief Morris said the dog is undergoing retraining since arriving in Wyoming. The police chief reiterated that the K-9 lease agreement states that Officer Lehr, not the town, is responsible for the dog’s training expenses.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/28092046/0828_Toga-K9-Officer-5.mp3Councilman Fluty motioned to table the K-9 lease agreement. However, Councilwoman Beck motioned to accept the lease agreement as it is written.
Mayor Davis asked for a second to Councilman Fluty’s motion to delay voting on the contract. Councilman Bub Barkhurst seconded, saying that he wanted to personally review the contract before signing.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/28092048/0828_Toga-K9-Officer-6.mp3Mayor Davis called for a vote to table the contract until more research is done. The motion passed with Councilwoman Beck casting the sole dissenting vote. The contract signing was delayed until the following Saratoga town council meeting on September 3rd.
The post Saratoga Officials Table Hiring Of Drug K-9 first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 21, 2024 |
Photo – Hanna Recreation Center – Bigfoot99 file photo
The town of Hanna is attempting to keep the recreation center functional despite needing extensive repairs. Town officials hope to eventually reopen the facility.
In the early 1980’s, when Hanna was a booming coal town, the mine companies built a large recreation center to attract workers and their families. The Hanna Recreation Center had a heated indoor pool, a weight room, a large gymnasium, and a racquetball court. As the coal mines shut down in the early 2000’s, the town took financial responsibility of the rec center.
The facility was built when Hanna had a population of approximately 3,000 residents. The latest census shows less than 700 people currently live in the former coal mining town.
As the population declined, so too did memberships at the rec center. With fewer and fewer people paying to use the facility, the town was forced to put up the money to keep the building open.
After decades of financial strain on the budget, the Hanna town council voted to close the rec center at the end of July. The building will now be used exclusively for special events, such as serving as the voting site for Hanna residents.
Last Wednesday, Hanna Senior Center Manager Debbie Schasteen invited mayoral and town council candidates to a forum in the Hanna town hall. The fate of the recreation center was the main topic of debate.
During the discussion, Mayor Jayson Nordquist elaborated on why the rec center had to be closed. Nordquist was chosen to serve as mayor after Jon Ostling resigned in May.
Speaking at the August 14th Hanna candidate forum, Mayor Nordquist explained that the town simply could not afford to keep the recreation center open any longer. The mayor said he, and the other council members, had no choice but to close the facility.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103032/0821_Hanna-Rec-Center-1.mp3A few of the other candidates said if elected, they will search for grants to reopen the shuttered recreation center. Mayor Nordquist said he has personally spent the last three and a half years looking for grants. However, due to the lack of paid memberships, no one is willing to finically support the facility, said the mayor.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103034/0821_Hanna-Rec-Center-2.mp3Candidates suggested adding a monthly fee to Hanna residents’ water or sewer bills to help fund the recreation center. Mayor Nordquist said the town is unable to legally use the water or sewer funds to pay for the rec center. The mayor said the facility was taking too much money away from other town services.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103036/0821_Hanna-Rec-Center-3.mp3Last summer, Hanna residents were invited to a public meeting where the town council explained why the rec center was in such dire financial straits. Attendees suggested reaching out to state and federal representatives for funding assistance and creating a non-profit organization to run the rec center.
At the August 14th Hanna candidate forum, Nordquist said former mayor Jon Ostling made many unsuccessful attempts to find alternative funding sources. However, Mayor Nordquist said the facility is simply too large for the town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103039/0821_Hanna-Rec-Center-4.mp3Mayor Nordquist said the entire population of Hanna needed to purchase a membership to keep the rec center open. No other recourse existed, but to shut down the facility, said the mayor.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103041/0821_Hanna-Rec-Center-5.mp3Councilwoman Alice Million said nothing the council or mayor did could have saved the rec center. Councilwoman Million said it was up to Hanna residents to keep the facility open by purchasing memberships.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103043/0821_Hanna-Rec-Center-6.mp3Mayor Nordquist said the equipment in the recreation center is over 40 years old.
The mayor said he chose to close the facility when he did to prevent further damage. Replacing all the outdated equipment in the rec center will cost roughly $1.5 million, said Mayor Nordquist.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103045/0821_Hanna-Rec-Center-7.mp3Mayor Nordquist said that total does not include the cost of repairs needed to reopen the facility’s heated indoor pool.
To save money, the facility will not be heated in the winter. However, Mayor Nordquist said he plans to offer summer activities in rec center. The mayor said he won’t completely abandon the building.
The post Hanna Officials Explain Position On Rec Center first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 21, 2024 |
Photo – Mule deer doe – Courtesy WY Game & Fish
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department will hold two public meetings in northern Carbon County to discuss declining mule deer populations.
On Thursday evening, Game and Fish will be in Elk Mountain to speak with locals about thinning mule deer herds. Laramie Region Biologist Teal Cufaude said the meeting will allow residents to have a casual discussion about mule deer conservation.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103048/0821_Mule-Deer-1.mp3Attendees will be given the opportunity to provide their opinions on why mule deer populations are declining. Cufaude explained that there isn’t a single reason for the shrinking mule deer herds.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103052/0821_Mule-Deer-2.mp3On top of habitat loss and disease, Cufaude said predation is also reducing deer numbers. The biologist is asking Elk Mountain residents to discuss why they think the local mule deer population is declining.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103054/0821_Mule-Deer-3.mp3An Elk Mountain resident told Bigfoot99 that many locals think the mule deer hunting season should be suspended for a year to allow the herds to recover. Cufaude said she expects to discuss the hunting season during Thursday’s meeting. However, the Game and Fish biologist said hunting is only one factor affecting the deer herds. Cufaude added that the hunting season will not be changed at the Elk Mountain meeting.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103057/0821_Mule-Deer-4.mp3Thursday’s meeting is the first mule deer discussion scheduled in Carbon County. Cufaude said the following Thursday, Game and Fish will meet with Medicine Bow residents. Future discussions will occur in other towns later in the year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/21103100/0821_Mule-Deer-5.mp3The Wyoming Game and Fish Mule Deer Community Conversation in Elk Mountain is tomorrow, August 22nd, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Elk Mountain Park, located at the corner of Main and Chokecherry Streets. Attendance is free. Light refreshments will be provided.
The post Declining Mule Deer Numbers Topic Of Public Meeting first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 21, 2024 |
Photo – Senator John Barrasso and Representative Harriet Hageman – Courtesy hageman.house.gov
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso shot to an easy win in Tuesday’s primary election.
Barrasso of Casper, Wyoming held an early lead over opponents Reid Rasner and John Holtz to claim a fourth term in office. Barrasso was first appointed to the senate seat since 2007 and has held onto it ever since, climbing to a senior leadership position in the U.S. Senate.
Barrasso, who is expected to hold onto the seat in the General Election in November will likely run for Senate Whip.
Rasner ran a grassroots campaign around Wyoming from his home base in Mills. Holtz is a Laramie attorney.
Also winning easily on Tuesday was U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman. Unlike the national headline race of two years ago when Hageman upset Liz Cheney, who had run afoul of Wyoming Republicans with her hardcore, East Coast animosity toward Donald Trump, this year’s race against Steve Helling of Casper was a low-key affair.
Helling ran as a Democrat for Congress in 2022. His party flip-flop coupled with a late start this year failed to capture any media attention or generate much interest with Wyoming’s Republican base.
Hageman and Barrasso were declared winners shortly after the polls closed in Wyoming Tuesday evening. They both move onto the General Election in November.
The post Wyoming’s Federal Incumbents Head To General Election first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 21, 2024 |
Photo – One of the polling locations in Carbon County – Bigfoot99 file photo
Here in Carbon County, of the 5,473 registered voters, 3,056 participated in yesterday’s election.
Incumbent Senator John Barrasso received nearly 1,000 more votes than his opponent, Reid Rasner. Barrasso won with 1,642 to Rasner’s 697. Holtz picked up 159 votes.
Congresswoman Harriet Hageman garnered 2,038 votes compared to challenger Steven R. Helling’s 446.
In Rawlins, the District 15 race for a seat in the Wyoming Legislature, Pam Thayer defeated Terry Weickum. Thayer had 728 votes to Weickum’s 213. Political newcomer Sheryl Foland came in third with 190.
The House District 47 was uncontested with Representative Bob Davis of Baggs picking up an easy win.
In the Carbon County Commissioner’s race, incumbents John Espy and Sue Jones received the first and third most votes, with County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett taking second. Jones drew 1,219 votes. Jimmy Hinkle came in out of the running with 1,188.
In Baggs, Michael A. McCallister ran uncontested for one of the open council seats. The other seat will be decided by write-in votes.
Caleb Owens and Ryanne Mikesell were chosen to run for the two open council seats in Dixon.
In Elk Mountain, Angie Hobbs and Joseph Neel beat out Cemetery District President Brett Larson for the town’s two open council seats.
Encampment voters chose Susan Munson and Stas Banach to run for the two open town council seats in their town.
In Hanna, Orville ‘Oats’ Briggs will be the new mayor. Current Mayor Jason Nordquist came in out of the running with 25 votes. The winner, Briggs, narrowly beat out Jerry Walter, 48 to 47.
Also in Hanna, Ellen Works-Freeman and Nathan Seegmiller received the most votes for the two open town council seats. However, Hanna residents cast 146 write-in votes.
The Medicine Bow mayor is also up for election this year. Current Mayor Justin George beat out his opponent, Troy Maddox Senior, with a total of 49 to 26 votes.
Two four-year and two two-year town council seats are up for election in Medicine Bow. Sitting council members Kristi Wickizer and Lee Cook ran unopposed for the four-year seats. Current council members Trevor Strauch and Crystal Mayfield were unopposed for the two unexpired two-year seats.
In Riverside, Linda Brown and Mark Helwick will run for the two open four-year council seats. Lisa Lorenz ran unopposed for the single unexpired two-year seat on the Riverside town council.
In Saratoga, Cory Oxford and current town council member Mike Cooley were the top vote-getters to fill the two four-year council seats. The candidates received 332 and 305 votes respectively. Nanette “Chia” Valdez garnered 118 votes.
Sitting Saratoga council member Bub Barkhurst received more votes than his opponent, Sophia Borg, for the two-year seat that Barkhurst was appointed to earlier this year.
In Sinclair, Michelle Serres and Brennan Dunlap will run for the two open council seats in November. Nancy Sanders ran unopposed for the single two-year seat.
In Rawlins, Derek Elliott received the most votes in Ward One, with 102. De Shann Schinkel was second with 94 votes. Former Rawlins city council member DeBari Martinez garnered 40 votes in the race.
In Ward Two, current city council member Darrill Garner won his party’s nomination with more than twice as many votes as his closest rival. Garner received 283 votes compared to Stanley Bugg’s 108.
Ward Three in Rawlins is currently represented by Chris Weisenburg. In yesterday’s primary election, Ward Three voters elected Terry Patterson by a narrow margin. Patterson narrowly beat Patrick Gonzales with a total of 140 to 136 for Gonzales. Weisenburg came in third with 101 votes.
With the primary races decided, Carbon County voters will head to the polls in November to select the next round of federal, state, and local representatives. The creation of a taxpayer-funded hospital district to support Memorial Hospital of Carbon County will also be on November’s ballot
The post Votes Counted From Yesterday’s Election first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 20, 2024 |
Photo – Melvin Bagley mugshot – Courtesy CCSO
A Rawlins man has been sentenced to up to 80 years in prison for shooting his relatives. The incident occurred less than one year ago, during a dispute over money.
Earlier this month, 74-year-old Melvin Bagley was convicted on two counts of Attempted Second Degree Murder for shooting his nephew and his nephew’s wife last September. Bagley has been sentenced to between 40 and 80 years behind bars.
On September 3rd, 2023, Wyoming Highway Patrol and local law enforcement agencies were called to milepost 22 on US 287, north of Rawlins.
According to Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper Timothy Howell’s written affidavit, two people reported that they had been shot and were being chased by the perpetrator. Trooper Howell wrote that the victims said the suspect was ramming them with his truck and firing a handgun at them as they attempted to escape in their vehicle. The victims were later identified as Bagley’s nephew, Marvin Bagley Junior, and his nephew’s wife, Stephanida Bagley.
Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper Howell reported that Stephanida Bagley said she and Marvin Bagley Junior were feeding animals on their ranch, located on Highway 287 between Rawlins and Bairoil. Stephanida said the elder Bagley drove up to them and suddenly started yelling, “Stop stealing my money.”
After telling Bagley that they hadn’t stolen his money, Bagley opened fire on their vehicle with a 9mm handgun. Court documents indicate that the perpetrator shot Marvin Bagley Junior in the head and left hand. Stephanida Bagley was shot in the left shoulder and chest.
At the time of the shooting, Bagley was living with his nephew and his nephew’s wife because he was allegedly suffering from dementia. Due to health concerns, Bagley is said to have given his relatives Power of Attorney over his finances.
Marvin Bagley Junior was shot twice in the right eyebrow, with at least one bullet exiting behind his right ear. The victim was also shot in the left hand by his knuckles.
Stephanida Bagley was shot twice, once in the left shoulder above the collarbone and once in the right chest. The bullet that struck her collarbone exited through her back. The second round hit the victim’s right breast and exited through her right side.
Judge Dawnessa Snyder presided over the case in Carbon County District Court. The defendant was represented by Wyoming State Assistant Public Defender Sergio Lemus.
On August 5th, Bagley was convicted of two counts of Attempted Second Degree Murder. Each count carries between a 20- and 40-year sentence.
In addition to $275 in clerical fees, the Defendant was ordered to pay over $300,000 for Marvin Bagley Junior and Stephanida Bagley’s medical expenses.
Bagley was credited with 338 days served in Carbon County Jail while awaiting trial. Following his sentencing, Bagley was remanded to the Wyoming Department of Corrections to serve out the remainder of his confinement.
The post Attempted Murder Suspect Sentenced To Prison first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 20, 2024 |
Photo – Speed Limit sign – Bigfoot99 file photo
The county road and bridge supervisor has asked commissioners to lower speed limits on certain unpaved roads around the county. The state may need to become involved for the the request to be approved.
At the August 6th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Kandis Fritz advised the board that she and Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones had received phone calls from citizens worried about traffic speeding through Savery. Fritz asked the board to reduce the speed on the rural stretch of County Road 561.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20113903/0820_County-Speed-Limits-1.mp3Unless otherwise noted, unpaved roads in Carbon County have a set speed limit of 55 miles per hour. Road and Bridge Superintendent Fritz asked for a resolution to set the speed limit on County Road 561 to 20 miles per hour.
Commissioner John Espy said he supports lowering the speed limit through Savery. However, Commissioner Espy said the Wyoming Department of Transportation may require a traffic study before the county can take action.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20113906/0820_County-Speed-Limits-2.mp3Road and Bridge Superintendent Fritz also asked the board to lower the speed limit on County Road 205, north of Saratoga. Since the area is zoned for residential properties, Fritz said the council may legally reduce the speed limit to 30 miles an hour without WYDOT authorization. Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones added that a segment of County Road 205 is already limited to 30 miles an hour.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20113908/0820_County-Speed-Limits-3.mp3If the resolution is passed, Fritz said she will ensure that motorists are aware of the new speed limit along County Road 205.
Finally, Fritz asked the board to install additional speed limit signs on County Road 401, also known as Sage Creek Road. The road and bridge superintendent said residents are requesting to reduce speeds on the southern portion of the road.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20113910/0820_County-Speed-Limits-4.mp3Commissioner Espy said he supports posting 25 mile an hour signs along Aspen Alley on Sage Creek Road. The commissioner said WYDOT should be consulted before approving any of the other proposed speed limit changes, however.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20113912/0820_County-Speed-Limits-5.mp3Commissioner Garrett Irene said he’s been contacted about lowering the speed limit on County Road 351. Commissioner Irene asked if it is possible to lower the speed limit from 65 miles per hour for safety reasons without WYDOT authorization.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20113914/0820_County-Speed-Limits-6.mp3Fritz said she and Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman have placed signs along Seminoe Road warning motorists of road damage.
The road and bridge superintendent said she will have a resolution to lower the speed limits on the aforementioned roads prepared by the next county commissioner meeting on August 27th.
The post Road & Bridge Requests Speed Limit Change On Certain County Roads first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 20, 2024 |
Photo – An “I Voted” sticker – Bigfoot99 file photo
Today is Primary Election Day across Wyoming. Carbon County officials urge residents to bring their ID with them to the polls today, when they choose the candidates who will appear on the ballot in November’s general election.
Wyoming voters are required to present a valid form of identification before registering to vote or casting their ballots. Carbon County Deputy Clerk Lisa Smith explained the types of ID poll workers will accept.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20113916/0820_Vote-1.mp3Unregistered voters may register to vote at their local polling station. Your ID does not need to display your current Wyoming home address.
Smith said the Carbon County Clerk’s Office has issued 862 absentee ballots for today’s election. As of Monday morning, 713 of the ballots had been returned. Absentee ballots must be received by 7:00 pm tonight. Smith said in order to meet the deadline, absentee voters will need to physically deliver their ballots to the Carbon Building in Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20113918/0820_Vote-2.mp3As of Monday afternoon, Smith said 5,473 voters are registered in Carbon County.
Earlier this month, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners voted to place the creation of a taxpayer-funded hospital district on the general election ballot. Smith said voters will decide on that measure in November. At the same time, members of the hospital district board will also need to be chosen. Like all special districts, Smith said candidates have another week to submit their nominations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20113920/0820_Vote-3.mp3Polls are open until 7:00 pm tonight. Smith reminded everyone to bring a valid ID.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20113922/0820_Vote-4.mp3For more information about accepted forms of ID or a list of polling locations, call the Carbon County Clerk’s Office at 328-2650.
The post County Officials Urge Residents To Bring ID When Voting first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 20, 2024 |
Photo – National Public Data logo – Courtesy npd/pentester.com
In a national story that could affect you, here in Wyoming, a class-action lawsuit filed August 1 in U.S. District Court in Florida reveals that the social security numbers and other personal information of millions of Americans were exposed in April of this year.
Behind the hacking theft is a nefarious group that gained access to records from a national background check service called NPD, or National Public Data. The company’s name is actually a misnomer. The data that NPD collects and stores is private, not public, information.
In a statement on Friday, NPD warned that the “the information that was suspected of being breached contained name, email address, phone number, social security number, and mailing address(es).”
It recommended the public to take a number of steps to safeguard their identities, including freezing their credit and putting fraud alerts on their files at big credit bureaus.
The breach only came to light after a lawsuit was filed.
National Public Data did not share how many people were at risk, but hackers, who have been identified as part of the hacking group USDoD, have been offering, for sale, what they claimed were billions of NPD records since April. The Washington Post reported that “security researchers who looked at the trove said some of the claims were exaggerated.”
In other words, nobody knows for sure.
NPD has not notified specific people whose data has been compromised. In their statement, they say they are working with law enforcement to review affected records and “will try to notify you if there are further significant developments applicable to you.”
National Public Data is a company that collects and sells access to your personal data for use in background checks, to obtain criminal records and for private investigators. NPD is believed to scrape the information from public sources and compile individual American’s data.
In April, a threat actor, on a popular breach forum, offered up for sale the database breach and requested $3,500,000.
The team at Pentester.com was able to get a hold of this data and analyze the content. The company created an online tool to check if your name is in the breach. The company masks sensitive information to prevent abuse. If your name is included, your information was acquired in the breach.
The web site to check your name against the lists of names captured in the NPD breach this year is pentester.com
Be advised. After every major data breach, a swarm of phishing attempts by threat actors soon follows. These bad actors try to use this information to be more convincing and trick you into providing additional sensitive information. Stay vigilant with and never reveal personal or financial data including usernames, passwords, PINs, memorable phrases or ID numbers.
The post National Database Has Not Released Any Notices They Were Hacked first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 20, 2024 |
Photo – Jack Culbreath and team mates – Courtesy gowyo.com
In sports, Wyoming has a new punter who may be the missing piece the Cowboys have lacked.
First-year head coach Jay Sawvel wasted no time going after Jack Culbreath, as 6-foot-4, 235-pound FCS all-American. Sawvel started in December, chasing what he describes as a “solid punter.”
Culbreath came to Laramie this summer for workouts.
The Virginia-native averaged 43.6 yards per punt with 17 attempts placed inside the opponents’ 20-yard last season for VMI. His longest boot was 76 yards.
The thin mountain air in Laramie is different than in swampy Virginia.
The fifth-year senior is taking advantage of the extra year of eligibility granted by the NCAA during the Corona freak-out. “I never really expected to come out here, but I love it so far, it’s awesome.”
UW will wrap up fall camp today before shifting the focus to the opener against Arizona State on Aug. 31 in Tempe.
The post Wyoming Cowboys Find Experienced Punter first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 19, 2024 |
Photo – Hanna Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Hanna town council reversed direction Friday and placed citizen’s participation back on the agenda after removing it earlier in the week.
Bigfoot99 reported on Friday morning that the Hanna town council had removed the public comment portion of its meetings following a brief debate among council members.
At the August 13th town council meeting, Mayor Jayson Nordquist announced that members of the public must be on the agenda before being allowed to address the governing body. Mayor Nordquist said attendees were interrupting the meetings too often.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19112344/0819_Hanna-1.mp3By eliminating the citizen participation portion from the meeting, the town required the public to visit the Hanna town hall, days in advance, to request being added to the agenda. Only then would the individual be permitted to speak during the meeting.
Mayor Nordquist indicated that he was willing to place citizen’s participation back on the agenda if the other council members agreed.
At around 11:00 Friday morning, a notice was posted to the official Hanna Wyoming Facebook page saying that citizen’s participation was back on the agenda. The public will once again be given an opportunity to address the governing body near the end of future town council meetings.
The post Hanna Officials Reverse Decision To Remove Portion Of Council Meetings first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 19, 2024 |
Photo – House Medicine Bow bought for Marshal’s Office – Bigfoot99 file photo
The town of Medicine Bow has found a buyer for the former marshal’s house and other unused equipment.
In 2019, the town of Medicine Bow used $1 million of impact assistance money from nearby wind turbine construction projects to form a marshal’s department. The funding was used to buy law enforcement equipment and purchase a house in town. When needed, the home, located at 724 Maple Street, was offered for rent to the town’s marshals. Deputy Chris Tirpak was the last officer to occupy the house.
In February, with the impact assistance money running out, the town council voted to dissolve the marshals’ office. Since that time, the town has been selling off unneeded law enforcement equipment.
Earlier this month, the council voted to place the former marshal’s house up for sale. To maximize profits, the town chose to request bids for the property instead of using a realtor. The town also asked for bids on other pieces of equipment, such as fencing, sewer pipes, fuel tanks, and a heavy-duty truck.
During the August 12th Medicine Bow town council meeting, the governing body opened the sealed bids. Mayor Justin George read a bid for the former marshal’s house. The council joked about how the bidder, Peter Tyler, wrote down the wrong address.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19112348/0819_Med-Bow-House-Sale-1.mp3When the house was put up for sale, it was stipulated that the town would not accept less than $63,000. As the only bidder and with a bid that was $18,000 higher than the minimum, Peter Tyler was selected to buy the house.
The town also auctioned off two 1,000-gallon fuel tanks used by the former marshal’s department. One resident bid $700 each for the tanks while another bid $300 for both.
The town also received one bid for the 2006 International-brand heavy-duty truck for $2,600.
Public Works Director Brian Lashley said the bids for the fuel tanks and truck are far too low and the town must reject them. Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer pointed out that, unlike the house, the town did not set a minimum bid for the truck and tanks.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19112350/0819_Med-Bow-House-Sale-2.mp3Town Attorney Cameron Smith said it is the council’s discretion whether to accept the bids or not.
Councilwoman Wickizer asked Public Works Director Lashley how much he will accept for the truck. Lashley said the vehicle is worth more than ten times what was bid for it.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19112353/0819_Med-Bow-House-Sale-3.mp3Lashley said the 1,000-gallon fuel tanks are worth $3,000 each.
The Medicine Bow town council voted to sell all uncontested equipment to the highest bidders. As for the truck and fuel tanks, the governing body instructed Lashley to contact the bidders and see if they’re willing to meet the minimum prices.
The post Medicine Bow Officials Open Sealed Bids For Excess Equipment first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 19, 2024 |
Photo – Voting booth – Bigfoot99 file photo
Tomorrow, Tuesday, August 20th, is Primary Election Day for the 23 counties across Wyoming.
In Rawlins, voting for each of the city’s three districts and the two precincts in each district will take place at the Jeffery Center. Voters who live in Muddy Gap and the Town of Sinclair will also vote at the Jeffery Center in Rawlins at 315 West Pine Street.
The polling place for the Town of Hanna will be located at the Hanna Recreation Center.
In Medicine Bow, voting will be held at the Community Center on Pine Street.
Elk Mountain voters, Districts 8 and 9, will head to the Elk Mountain Community Center.
In District 11, Saratoga, voters from Precinct 1 and 2 will vote at the Platte Valley Community Center.
Residents in District 12 and 13 at the south end of the Platte Valley will vote at 622 Rankin Avenue.
Voters in the two Districts in Baggs, 14 and 15, will cast their ballots at the Valley Community Center on West Osborne Street.
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Grey expressed his appreciation for the county clerks and their staffs on Friday. The Secretary of State also encouraged residents to participate in the process.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19112409/0819_SOS-Grey.mp3Polls open at 7:00 a.m. tomorrow and close at 7:00 p.m. Any eligible elector present and waiting to vote at 7:00 p.m. shall be allowed to vote, according to the Secretary of State’s office.
The General Election will be held on November 5.
The post Primary Election Voting Places Set Around County first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 19, 2024 |
Photo – Photograph of Parco Inn – Courtesy Robert Fleetwood
A Rawlins photographer has been selected to take part in a competitive regional art exhibit.
When he isn’t working for the Carbon County Library, Robert Fleetwood is taking photographs of the area in and around Rawlins. Fleetwood said he became interested in photography five years ago after discovering he possessed a talent for taking pictures.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19112355/0819_Photography-Exhibit-1.mp3Fleetwood said he is inspired by people like New Mexico photographer Lonnie J Anderson. Fleetwood said he is drawn to artists who focus on what is happening in their immediate areas.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19112358/0819_Photography-Exhibit-2.mp3Fleetwood said his photographs cover a large range of subjects. The photographer said he simply takes pictures of things that appeal to him.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19112400/0819_Photography-Exhibit-3.mp3Fleetwood said his photography teacher in Rock Springs encouraged him to apply for the 2024 Regional Photography Biennial. Gallery 1516 is a non-profit art gallery located in Omaha, Nebraska. Every year, Gallery 1516 hosts an art competition featuring artists from Nebraska and surrounding states. The regional photography competition invites artists of various mediums, such as painting, sculpture, and photography, to compete for cash prizes, exhibition opportunities, and awards for excellence. The winners have their work prominently displayed in the gallery, providing significant exposure to a wider audience and potential buyers.
Fleetwood described the photograph he submitted to the exhibition.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19112404/0819_Photography-Exhibit-4.mp3The 2024 Regional Photography Biennial art exhibition runs from October 4th through December 15th. To raise money to attend the event in Omaha, Nebraska, Fleetwood is selling his photographs on redbubble.com.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/19112407/0819_Photography-Exhibit-5.mp3Fleetwood is also offering to take photographs for high school seniors. For $100 to $150, parents will receive 12 professionally edited pictures of their students.
For more information about his photography services, call Robert Fleetwood at 321-9990. A link to Fleetwood’s online photograph store will be included with this story when it is posted to the Bigfoot99 website later today.
Fleetwood says his goal is to draw national attention to Carbon County photography.
Robert Fleetwood’s Redbubble store: https://www.redbubble.com/people/RFleetwood11/shop
The post Local Artist Invited To Regional Competitive Art Exhibit first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 19, 2024 |
Photo – School Crossing sign – Courtesy freepik.com
In Saratoga, today is the first day of school. Caution is advised if you’re behind the wheel of a car or truck. The Saratoga Police Department and school bus drivers are reminding everyone you should be extremely cautious when driving.
You are reminded to pay attention to the speed limits in school zones, watch for children crossing the streets, not just at intersections, but along all streets.
Also, obey the warning and STOP signs displayed by school buses along the bus routes.
One significant change this year applies to the Bus Loading/Unloading area at the Saratoga Elementary School. The Saratoga Public Works Department in conjunction with Carbon School District #2 Transportation Department installed barricades On Elm Avenue on the south side of the school. These barricades readily define the Loading/Unloading area and create a separate roadway or lane to be used only for the buses.
The new barriers at the school provide a safer more secure area for the children getting on and off the buses. Traffic on Elm Avenue will no longer be required to stop while the buses are being loaded or off loaded. This change will be less disruptive to the flow of traffic.
Saratoga Police Officers will have extra patrols along the bus routes, crosswalks, and school zones.
The Saratoga Police remind motorists to “Be Safe, Not Sorry.”
The post New School Bus Loading Lane Added At Saratoga Elementary first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 16, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Saratoga Planning Commission asked for public comment about short term rentals in town.
The Saratoga Planning Commission has struggled to decide what, if anything, should be done to curtail the abundance of short-term rentals in town. Some residents say short-term rentals contribute to the local economy while others say the units take homes off the market, limiting the availability of lower cost housing. The latest data shows that 69 short-term rental properties are currently operating in Saratoga as businesses struggle to find employees because of the housing shortage.
On Tuesday evening, the Saratoga Planning Commission held a public hearing to discuss short-term rentals. Newspaper Manager Josh Wood said he has trouble recruiting employees because of the lack of available housing. Wood said a permitting process will allow the town to collect data on how many short-term rentals exist and how they affect the housing market.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16113941/0815_-Short-Term-Rentals-1.mp3Hotel owner John Evans said he isn’t against short-term rentals because they promote tourism. However, Evans said taking too many houses off the market forces workers out of town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16202839/Rental-02.mp3Local business owner James Campbell said a state study indicated that nearly 5% of all Saratoga homes are used for short-term rentals. Campbell said the rental properties should be treated the same as other commercial businesses.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16202841/Rental-03.mp3Saratoga Councilman Mike Cooley said he does not support additional regulations. Councilman Cooley said the planning commission should consider other reasons for Saratoga’s lack of housing instead of simply focusing on short-term rentals.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16202843/Rental-04.mp3Planning Commission Chairwoman McCall Burau said the town already has an ordinance in place governing rentals in residential districts. Burau said the town simply needs to enforce the existing code.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16202845/Rental-05.mp3The discussion lasted for over two hours. Burau asked Public Works Director Emery Penner to send out a survey to residents seeking their opinions about short-term rentals. Penner said doesn’t expect the survey to offer any new information.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16202847/Rental-06.mp3In the end, the Planning Commission decided that they wanted to enforce the existing ordinance that requires rentals to have a special use permit. The commission will hold another public workshop to decide how to get short-term rental property owners to comply with the town’s rules. No date has been set for the meeting.
The post Saratoga Planning Commission Asks Public About Lack of Housing first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 16, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins Police Department vehicles – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins city government will give police officers more options to deal with ordinance violations.
During the August 6th Rawlins city council meeting, City Attorney Pinita Maberry-Nave informed the governing body that she is working with the Rawlins Police Department to create a new category of citation: a fix-it ticket. Instead of being limited to issuing a warning or a fine, Maberry-Nave said officers may instead choose to give the offender time to address the violation.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16113954/0816_Rawlins-CItations-1.mp3Maberry-Nave said ten days should work with most peoples’ pay schedules. The city attorney said if a violation isn’t resolved within the time limit, the offender will be issued a fine. Fix-it tickets are often used in other areas of the country, said the attorney.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16113955/0816_Rawlins-CItations-2.mp3Rawlins Mayor Terry Weickum said a similar type of citation was used in his hometown of Torrington. Mayor Weickum described how fix-it style tickets could be dismissed if the violation was corrected.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16113957/0816_Rawlins-CItations-3.mp3Mayor Weickum expressed his support for the idea. The mayor said the goal is to get problems fixed, not issue fines.
The post Rawlins Officials Give RPD New Option To Deal With Violations first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 16, 2024 |
Photo – Hanna Town Hall – Courtesy google maps
The Hanna town council decided this week to eliminate the citizen’s participation portion of its public meetings.
Anyone who wishes to address the Hanna town council must now be on the agenda.
During Tuesday’s Hanna town council meeting, while reviewing the agenda, Councilman Bill Dys expressed concern over the removal of the citizen’s participation portion of the meeting. Mayor Jayson Nordquist said the town isn’t required to offer residents a chance to speak without prior knowledge.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16113943/0816_Hanna-1.mp3Councilman Dys said many residents use the citizen’s participation portion of the meeting to address the town council. He asked when people will be given time to voice their concerns.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16113945/0816_Hanna-2.mp3Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales said residents must come to town hall and ask to be put on the agenda.
Clerk Gonzales said the council meetings are primarily for making governmental decisions. Hanna isn’t the only municipality to require people to be on the agenda before speaking, said the town clerk.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16113947/0816_Hanna-3.mp3Of all ten incorporated municipalities in Carbon County, only Elk Mountain and Sinclair require participants to be on the agenda before addressing the council. The remaining towns, except for Hanna, have portions of their town council meetings set aside for members of the public to speak.
Back at Tuesday’s Hanna town council meeting, Mayor Nordquist said attendees interrupt the meetings too often. The mayor said by eliminating citizen participation, the council can ensure all agenda items are addressed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16113950/0816_Hanna-4.mp3Councilman Dys said the town council should let the public know that they will no longer be permitted to speak at meetings. Clerk Gonzales said residents can read the meeting minutes to learn what council discussed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/16113952/0816_Hanna-5.mp3Mayor Nordquist said he is open to bringing the citizen’s participation portion back, but at the end of the council meeting. As of right now, anyone who wants to address the Hanna town council must be on the agenda first.
The post Hanna Officials Remove Citizen Participation Portion Of Council Meetings first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 16, 2024 |
Photo – Shae Suiaunoa – Courtesy gowyo.com
The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame has announced its 2024 Watch List for the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award and two Wyoming Cowboys have been named to the list. Linebacker Shae Suiaunoa and center Nofoafia Tulafono are both among this year’s candidates for the second-straight season.
Suiaunoa appeared in and started all 13 games for the Cowboys last season. He was named third team All-MW by Phil Steele. He ranked second on the team with 93 total tackles. He also added 5.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks and an interception. He ranked tenth in the MW with 7.2 tackles per game. he had 10 or more tackles in three games last season. He recorded a career-high 12 tackles for the Cowboys in the win over Texas Tech.
Tulafono started all 13 games. He helped pave the way for Harrison Waylee to rush for north of 100 yards on four different occasions with the high-water mark being 191 yards against New Mexico. Tulafono also helped protect Andrew Peasley who threw for at least 140 yards nine different times with a season-high 319 coming against Hawaii.
Wyoming opens the season one week from tomorrow in a Saturday night game against Arizona State University.
The post Polynesian Hall Of Fame Selects Cowboy For Watch List first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 15, 2024 |
Photo – A 1921 photo of the Strand Theater – Bigfoot99 file photo
Work continues to clean dangerous properties in Rawlins.
In 1995, the United States Environmental Protection Agency created the Brownfields Program to provide financial assistance to municipalities with abandoned or underutilized buildings that have known or suspected environmental contamination.
In April of 2023, the city submitted four sites for potential Brownfields consideration: the Pink Motel, the Ferguson building, a property on Pine Street, and the old Strand Theater. Rawlins was awarded $500,000 from the federal government to determine if any of those properties contained hazardous materials.
During the August 6th Rawlins city council meeting, Councilwoman Tonya Lewman asked Downtown Development Authority Executive Director Pam Thayer for an update on the Brownfields projects. Thayer said studies have been completed on the four properties. The city is waiting for state funding to move into the next phase of the project, said Thayer.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112857/0815_Brownfields-1.mp3Councilwoman Lewman asked if the city had any potential buyers for the properties once the Brownfields assessments were completed. Thayer reminded the councilwoman that the federal grant simply paid to investigate the properties for potential contaminations, not perform remediation. However, Thayer said she believes that people are still interested in purchasing the properties.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112859/0815_Brownfields-2.mp3City Manager Tom Sarvey explained that the Brownfields project is broken up into two parts. The city selects the sites it believes may require remediation. Then, using the $500,000 federal grant, Sarvey said the city will hire a contractor to determine if any hazardous conditions exist.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112901/0815_Brownfields-3.mp3Sarvey said he is preparing to issue a request for proposal from contractors. Once the bids are received, the city will choose a contractor to perform the environmental assessments. However, Sarvey said the federal funding will not pay to clean up any of the sites.
The post Rawlins Officials Discuss Current Brownfield Projects first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 15, 2024 |
Photo – HEM High School – Courtesy google maps
The Hanna town council will not allow the high school to house students’ 4H livestock at this time.
During Tuesday night’s Hanna town council meeting, Hanna, Elk Mountain, Medicine Bow High School Principal Eli Hobbs told the governing body that he is attempting to offer more real-world training for students. To meet that goal, Hobbs said he received a grant through the school district to construct a greenhouse, a sawmill, and a livestock barn.
Hobbs said the school had a livestock barn in the past. However, Hobbs said he was unable to find an agreement between the school and the town that allowed livestock to be kept on school grounds. The principal admitted that an agreement may not have existed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112903/0815_HEM-Barn-1.mp3Hobbs said he wanted to address the council before building a new barn.
The school principal said raising and selling livestock through 4A and FFA greatly benefits students. However, not every student has access to the land necessary to raise animals.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112906/0815_HEM-Barn-2.mp3Hobbs said the barn will allow 10 students to house their 4H and FFA livestock on school grounds.
Councilman Sam Sikes asked Hobbs if the school owned property outside of town. Hobbs responded that the barn will be built within the town limits. Councilman Sikes said Hanna ordinance forbids the keeping of livestock in town. Sikes said the governing body is unable to make an exception for the school.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112908/0815_HEM-Barn-3.mp3Mayor Jayson Nordquist said keeping livestock at the school will violate the town’s zoning ordinance. Without proper fencing, no farm animals may be housed on school grounds.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112909/0815_HEM-Barn-4.mp3Mayor Nordquist said the council could change the rules to allow livestock at the school. However, the mayor said the town lacks the ability to enforce its existing animal ordinances.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112912/0815_HEM-Barn-5.mp3Most of the high school property is within the Hanna town limits. However, a small section is part of the unincorporated county. Hobbs asked if the animals could be kept on that section of property. Mayor Nordquist said yes. The principal admitted that having the animals so far from the school building will present logistical problems.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112914/0815_HEM-Barn-6.mp3Mayor Nordquist asked Hobbs if he considered that the students may not properly take care of the animals. The mayor said by keeping livestock, school staff will be responsible.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15114756/0815_Barn-07.mp3In the end, the Hanna town council informed Hobbs that they were not willing to amend the ordinances or offer a variance to allow the school to house livestock. The matter was tabled until different arrangements can be made.
The post Hanna Officials Table School’s Request first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 15, 2024 |
Photo – Wyoming’s Secretary of State Chuck Grey – Bigfoot99 file photo
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Grey was threatened over the telephone this week by someone apparently upset about changes to how elections are conducted in the Cowboy State.
Grey posted a recording of the message to his Facebook page. In his post, the Secretary of State pointed the finger at what he called the “radical Left” which opposes the election reforms the Secretary has introduced.
The voicemail runs about three minutes in length and is interspersed with obscenities. The cellular phone connection is spotty at times during the length of the recording. The ominous-sounding voice also makes threats of physical violence against the Secretary.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112922/0815_Voicemail-1.mp3In posting the audio to his Facebook page, Grey announced, “I will never back down. I will continue standing for the people of Wyoming by defending the truth and working for election integrity.”
Earlier this week, Grey called on some county clerks in Wyoming to retest their electronic voting systems.
The secretary told the clerks that the request was the result of complaints received by his office.
The Casper Star Tribune reports The Wyoming Freedom Caucus responded to the incident saying that the message “is an example of the radical left demonizing conservatives.”
Carbon County conservative activist Joey Correnti posted a simple definition on Gray’s Facebook page. It reads, “Terrorism: The use, or threatened use of violence or intimidation in the pursuit of political aims.”
The primary election is this Tuesday, August 20th. The General Election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5.
The post Secretary of State Threatened Via Telephone first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 15, 2024 |
Photo – Coach Jay Sawvel at press meeting – Courtesy gowyo.com
You can feel it in Laramie. Wyoming football is back. The first game is just over two weeks away with a Saturday night game in Arizona.
First year Wyoming head football coach Jay Sawvel addressed reporters yesterday during media day.
Sawvel ran through the numbers, four starters return on the offensive line. The running back core is deep and talented. “This year’s receiving corps are unproven, but they have shown growth in the last two weeks.”, Sawvel said.
Eight veteran starters are back on Defense.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112917/0815_Jay-Sawvel-1.mp3And then there’s the starting quarterback, Evan Svoboda, coming off his contributions at last year’s Arizona Bowl.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/15112920/0815_Jay-Sawvel-2.mp3Forcing turnovers was a big part of Wyoming’s MO last year. The 2023 Pokes forced 22 turnovers to rank No. 26 in the nation. Wyoming recovered 11 fumbles on the season, a number that tied for first in the MW and seventh in the nation.
Wyoming begins the season two weeks from tomorrow on August 31 in a night game at Arizona State University at Tempe. Kickoff is set for 8:30.
The post First Cowboy Football Game Is Two Weeks Out first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 14, 2024 |
Photo – A building at Medicine Bow Airport – Courtesy Vernon Lovejoy
A Colorado pilot is asking the town of Medicine Bow to preserve its historic airport.
From the 1920’s to the 1930’s, the United State Postal Service experimented with flying mail between New York and San Francisco. The airmail pilots, flying repurposed World War One bi-planes, would follow a series of concrete arrows on the ground to find their way to their destinations.
The Medicine Bow airport, known as Site 32, was an important site on the airmail route between Salt Lake City, Utah and Omaha, Nebraska.
Because of its importance to the airmail service, the Medicine Bow airport, located roughly one mile south of town, is listed on the National Park Service’s Register of Historic Places.
During Monday night’s Medicine Bow town council meeting, Colorado pilot Nathan Finneman said he has been following old airmail routes across the country.
Finneman said the Medicine Bow airport features the best-preserved airmail directional arrow and outbuildings in the western United States.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110824/0814_Med-Bow-Airport-1.mp3Finneman said the aviation community appreciates the historical significance of the Medicine Bow airport. The Colorado pilot said several well-known aviation pioneers have used the small-town runway, including Charles Lindbergh. The facility is falling apart, but Finneman said it can still be saved.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110828/0814_Med-Bow-Airport-2.mp3Finneman told the town council that he recently toured the site and found the buildings in relatively good condition considering their age. The pilot stressed the need to preserve the historically significant structures.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110831/0814_Med-Bow-Airport-3.mp3Finneman also said he found printed weather reports from the late 20’s and early 30’s inside of the old generator building.
The Medicine Bow airport is still operational. Because of that fact, Finneman said the Federal Aviation Administration may be willing to pay to fix the runway and lighting tower. Finneman also suggested contacting the Historical Society of Wyoming for assistance in preserving the generator building.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110833/0814_Med-Bow-Airport-4.mp3Finneman also said the town can solicit private donations to fund the airport preservation project.
The Colorado pilot said the lighting tower is still intact enough to repair. Finneman said it should be a simple matter to have the FAA pay for a new beacon light.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110835/0814_Med-Bow-Airport-5.mp3Finneman said restoring the old airmail site will encourage aviation tourists to visit Medicine Bow. The pilots are likely to spend money in town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110837/0814_Med-Bow-Airport-6.mp3Finneman said he is planning to hold an impromptu airshow, featuring small planes and paragliders, in Medicine Bow at the end of September. The pilot said if the airport is restored, additional airshows can be held, increasing revenue for the small town.
The Medicine Bow town council voted to form, again, an airport board to oversee the restoration of the old airmail buildings. Residents interested in serving on the airport board are asked to contact the Medicine Bow town hall.
The post Colorado Pilot Addresses Medicine Bow Town Council first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 14, 2024 |
Photo – Mailers not authorized by candidates – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
You may have received a political mailer apparently addressed from a Carbon County Commissioner this week. The primary election is this coming Tuesday. Three such mailers arrived at the radio station in Saratoga this week. The incumbent Carbon County commissioners featured in the mailers deny sending them, and they are not happy.
The mailers were not cheap. They feature full-color photographs of the candidates and are printed on heavy, high-stock paper. The print copy is typical of any political advertising sent in the mail—generic phrases campaign. You may have received one and thrown it away as people often do with unsolicited junk mail.
The mailer supports Carbon County commissioner candidates Sue Jones, John Espy, and Garrett Irene. All three commissioners are running for reelection this year. The mailers were sent by the Colorado-based political action committee Western Way Action.
In a written statement to Bigfoot99, Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones said she and commissioners Espy and Irene were not involved in the creation of the campaign mailers in any way.
Jones said Denver-based Western Way Action PAC used photographs from the social media pages of the three candidates without permission and added its own generic political slogans to the flyers.
Jones writes that sending out last-minute mailers can potentially give the candidates an unfair advantage in the upcoming primary election. The commission chairwoman reiterated that all three candidates deny having anything to do with the flyers. They spent no money on their creation.
Commissioner Garrett Irene called Bigfoot99 reporter Matt Copeland to personally deny any involvement with the mailers.
According to the Federal Election Commission, the Western Way Action PAC was formed on July 25th of this year in Denver. Repeated attempts to contact the PAC via the listed phone number and email address have been unsuccessful. Phone calls and emails went unanswered.
Bigfoot99’s reporter contacted the Federal Election Commission and was told that the state is responsible for handling issues with local elections.
Bigfoot99 then contacted the Wyoming Secretary of State’s Election Division. Reporter Matt Copeland was informed that a member of the press team would contact him. As of the reporting of this story, that hasn’t happened.
Bigfoot99 also reached out to Colorado Secretary of State Communications Director Jack Todd for a statement about the incident. We have not received a return call yet.
Carbon County Commission Chairwoman Jones said she denounced and condemned the unsolicited mailers. Jones said, “fairness is trampled by out-of-state dark money.”
The post Political Mailers Sent Without Authorization Of Candidates first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 14, 2024 |
Photo – Sources of Strength logo – Courtesy CC Public Health website
Carbon County Public Health is gauging public interest in implementing a new suicide prevention program.
Public Health Community Prevention Specialist Rachel Swanson is asking residents if they would like to hold Sources of Strength meetings in their communities. Swanson said Sources of Strength is a suicide prevention program that focuses on evidence-based methods to teach positive mental health strategies.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110841/0814_Sources-of-Strength-1.mp3In the past, Swanson said she attempted to implement Sources of Strength in Carbon County, but found little interest in the suicide prevention program.
However recent events, such as the suicide of 18-year-old Saratoga resident Ayden Lecureux following a police chase through the Snowy Range, have residents asking for better mental health services. Swanson said she was compelled to revisit the Sources of Strength training.
While Sources of Strength is typically used in schools, Swanson said she believes that implementing the suicide prevention program in towns will be more effective.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110843/0814_Sources-of-Strength-2.mp3To increase the accessibility of the mental health program, Swanson is asking business owners and local organizations to become Sources of Strength partners. A participating entity will host Sources of Strength meetings and events. Swanson said she is still figuring out the best way for the community to become involved in the program.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110846/0814_Sources-of-Strength-3.mp3Swanson said Sources of Strength uses a variety of games and fun activities to promote mental health awareness in young people. The program is made up and ran by members of the community, said Swanson.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110848/0814_Sources-of-Strength-4.mp3Swanson is asking residents across Carbon County to contact her about setting up suicide prevention meetings in their towns. Swanson said each community has its own mental health needs.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110850/0814_Sources-of-Strength-5.mp3Swanson said people across Carbon County struggle with their mental health. By using the Sources of Strength program, Swanson said she hopes to give those residents the tools they need to move past their trauma.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110852/0814_Sources-of-Strength-6.mp3For more information about Sources of Strength, email Carbon County Public Health Community Prevention Specialist Rachel Swanson at rachel.swanson@wyo.gov.
The post Public Health Gauges Interest In Suicide Prevention Program first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 14, 2024 |
Photo – Silhouette of strutting grouse – Courtesy WY Game and Fish website
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is informing the public that starting this year, all licensed sage grouse hunters will be required to carry a free, annual sage grouse hunting permit.
This new regulation aims to enhance Game and Fish efforts to survey sage grouse hunters and gather valuable data on their hunting experiences.
The game and fish agency reports that all licensed sage grouse hunters must carry the permit alongside their game bird license. This requirement applies to daily, annual, lifetime and pioneer license holders.
Wyoming hunters under the age of 14 are exempt from needing the permit as they do not require a license to hunt game birds. However, nonresident hunters under the age of 14 who purchase a game bird license and take their own limit will need a sage grouse permit.
Falconers hunting sage grouse must possess the sage grouse permit and their falconry and game bird licenses.
About 60,000 game bird licenses are purchased each year. Only a few thousand are for sage grouse, according to agency officials.
The new annual permit system will allow Game and Fish to send targeted surveys to sage grouse hunters, ensuring more accurate and timely data to aid in the management of this iconic species.
The sage grouse permit can be acquired at Game and Fish offices or online through the department’s website. It can be obtained as a paper copy or electronically via a mobile device. A screenshot or downloaded PDF of the permit on a mobile device is acceptable in the field. The permit will not be available at license selling agents.
The post New Paperwork To Be Carried While Hunting Sage Grouse first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 14, 2024 |
Photo – Shae Suiaunoa – Courtesy gowyo.com
Another Cowboy is on a watch list headed into the season, which is a little over two weeks away. Wyoming linebacker Shae Suiaunoa was named to the Butkus Award selection list. He joins 50 other players from across the nation to make the list, which includes two returning semi-finalists from 2023, Deontae Lawson of Alabama and Jay Higgins of Iowa.
Suiaunoa started all 13 games for the Cowboys last season. He was named third team All-MW by Phil Steele. He ranked second on the team with 93 total tackles. He also added 5.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks and an interception, which came against Colorado State in Laramie.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/14110839/0814_Shae-Suiaunoa.mp3Wyoming went on to beat the Rams 24-15 in Laramie last season in a Friday night matchup. Andrew Peasley threw two touchdown passes, Harrison Waylee topped 100 yards on the ground and Wyoming became bowl-eligible with the win over its arch-enemy.
The 2014 season starts two weeks from Saturday. Get ready for football.
The post Preseason Watch Lists Add One More Cowboy first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 13, 2024 |
Photo – Jim Bridger Power Plant – Bigfoot99 file photo
Governor Mark Gordon announced Monday that Wyoming will lead a lawsuit with Texas, North Dakota, and 14 other states challenging the latest attack on the coal industry with overreaching rules from the Biden Administration’s Environmental Protection Agency.
The latest legal fight is the fourth lawsuit the Governor has filed since EPA released the rule package targeting coal-fired power plants this spring. Wyoming previously filed three lawsuits challenging EPA’s other rules that target the coal industry.
In the latest attack, the so-called coal combustion residuals (CCR) rule creates two new categories of federally regulated CCR facilities: inactive coal ash impoundments at inactive power plants and CCR “management units,” areas of land where coal ash was received, placed or otherwise managed that had not previously been regulated by EPA.
“This one-size-fits-all rule applies a broad brush to every area, while setting unreasonable timelines that will be costly to implement,” Governor Gordon said.
The costs likely will be passed onto consumers. It’s time we stopped this onslaught of anti-coal regulations,” the governor added.
The final rule is effective on November 4, 2024.
Though published under Subtitle D of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which is the public law that created the framework for the proper management of hazardous and non-hazardous waste, the rule also focuses on assessing and addressing groundwater impacts from coal ash disposal, specifically the leaking of contaminants into groundwater.
It establishes distinct requirements associated with groundwater monitoring and reporting, required closure of CCR units based on groundwater and risk results, and record keeping and reporting requirements for each CCR facility. As a result, utilities have been faced with an increased need for understanding the groundwater requirements associated with the rule and coordination of compliance with current state solid waste regulatory requirements.
Under the rule, owners or operators of both active and inactive impoundments and landfills must monitor groundwater for potential contamination for 30 years or more. Groundwater underlying CCR regulated facilities may have sampling results that are above state and/or federal standards for those constituents listed in the CCR Rule.
In recent decades, increasing regulations regarding coal combustion residuals (CCR) have greatly impacted operations at coal-fired facilities by increasing the cost of doing business.
The rule, published on May 8, 2024, amends the regulations governing the disposal of CCR in landfills and surface impoundments. Specifically, the EPA is establishing regulatory requirements for inactive CCR surface impoundments.
As Governor Gordon noted in his statement Monday, “Ultimately, these costs will be borne by electric cooperatives and passed on to taxpayers.”
The post Wyoming Leads A Lawsuit With 16 Other States first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 13, 2024 |
Photo – American Clean Power Week announcement – Courtesy American Clean Power Association
The Rawlins city council under Mayor Terry Weickum recently honored wind energy by declaring this “American Clean Power Week.” During the August 6th Rawlins city council meeting, Mayor Terry Weickum read a proclamation recognizing August 12th through the 16th as American Clean Power Week. Mayor Weickum said wind energy plays an important financial role in Rawlins, Carbon County, and the entire state.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205015/0813_Wind-Power-1.mp3Continuing to read from the proclamation, Mayor Weickum said Carbon County is the second-largest producer of wind-powered electricity in the state. Once the Chokecherry and Sierra Madre Wind Energy Project is completed, the mayor said Carbon County will contain the largest wind turbine field in Wyoming.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205017/0813_Wind-Power-2.mp3In total, Mayor Weickum said Carbon County has the potential to produce 4,600 megawatts of wind power.
None of the clean energy generated by with the wind turbines sprouting up on the open lands in Carbon County will be delivered locally. All the electricity is bound for the Pacific Northwest.
PacifiCorp Director of Wind Operations Laine Anderson thanked the mayor for the proclamation. PacifiCorp is responsible for the TB Flats, Ekola Flats, and Foote Creek wind turbine projects. Mayor Weickum returned the sentiment, saying PacifiCorp’s projects financially contribute to the state and local economy.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205019/0813_Wind-Power-3.mp3American Clean Power Association Director of Western Affairs Bo Downen also thanked the city for the proclamation. The American Clean Power Association is an organization that represents renewable energy producers in the United States, including wind, solar, and hydrogen. Downen said Carbon County’s willingness to embrace wind energy has financially benefited residents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205022/0813_Wind-Power-4.mp3Mayor Weickum officially declared this week as American Clean Power Week and encouraged residents to learn more about the economic benefits of wind energy in Carbon County.
The post Rawlins Mayor Proclaims American Clean Power Week first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 13, 2024 |
Photo – Fire truck from Rawlins – Courtesy Rawlins Fire Department
The Saratoga Fire Department is adding two preowned fire trucks to its fleet. The cost makes it appear like the town is getting the units at a steal.
During the August 6th Saratoga town council meeting, Assistant Fire Chief Tom Westring said the Rock Springs Fire Department has offered the town a chance to purchase a 24-year-old ladder truck for $5,000. The council members were surprised by the low cost of the truck.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205004/0813_Toga-Fire-Trucks-1.mp3Assistant Chief Westring said the truck appears to be in good condition for its age. Westring was unable to provide more details about the vehicle, but mentioned it has a 75-foot ladder and a 1,500-gallon-per-minute pump. The assistant fire chief also said he didn’t know how many miles or hours were on the truck.
Mayor Chuck Davis asked if the $5,000 price included any additional firefighting equipment. Westring responded that it did not, but mentioned that the Saratoga Fire Department could sell a 40-year-old fire truck and transfer its equipment to the new vehicle.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205007/0813_Toga-Fire-Trucks-2.mp3Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked if the $5,000 price tag includes the cost of delivery from Rock Springs. Westring said it does not. The assistant fire chief said he’ll have someone physically drive the fire truck back to Saratoga.
Westring said the ladder and pumps on the fire truck passed their annual inspection last month. The assistant fire chief said he’ll have a local mechanic fix a few small issues before finalizing the purchase.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205009/0813_Toga-Fire-Trucks-3.mp3Councilwoman Beck, saying the price of the fire truck seemed too low, asked if it was properly maintained. Mayor Davis said he believes the well-funded Rock Springs Fire Department is simply getting rid of outdated equipment.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205011/0813_Toga-Fire-Trucks-4.mp3Assistant Fire Chief Westring said the new truck is likely to improve Saratoga’s Insurance Services Office, or ISO, rating. A low ISO rating indicates that the town has strong fire protection, which can lead to lower home insurance premiums for residents.
The town council approved the purchase of a fire truck for $5,000, plus an additional $1,000 to cover expenses for transporting the vehicle to Saratoga.
On the same evening of August 6th, the Rawlins city council voted to donate an unneeded 26-year-old fire truck to the Saratoga Fire Department. Rawlins Fire Chief Alan Robinson said the truck will improve Saratoga’s ISO rating. Chief Robinson also said the vehicle has been inspected and is ready to go.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205013/0813_Toga-Fire-Trucks-5.mp3Back at the Saratoga town council meeting, Saratoga Assistant Fire Chief Westring told the governing body that the town was the only entity to show interest in the Rawlins fire truck.
Westring did not specify when the trucks will arrive in Saratoga.
The post Saratoga Volunteer Fire Department May Have Two Trucks In Future first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 13, 2024 |
Photo – Carbon County Public Health logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
Carbon County Public Health is warning of increased illnesses, including HIV, in our area of Wyoming.
During the August 6th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Reproductive Health Outreach Coordinator Megan Cragen said the National Ryan White Conference on HIV Care and Treatment states that cases of Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV, have been increasing. Cragen encouraged people to get tested for HIV.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13204952/0813_Public-Health-1.mp3Cragen said she has been working with local healthcare providers to inform residents about HIV related services available through Carbon County Public Health. The health outreach coordinator also said financial assistance is available for HIV medication through the United States Department of Health and Human Service’s Ryan White Conference.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13204955/0813_Public-Health-2.mp3According to Wyoming Department of Health Communicable Disease Unit Surveillance Program Manager Reginald McClinton, 22 new cases of HIV were reported in 2023, an increase from 13 in 2022 and higher than Wyoming’s typical annual range of 12 to 15.
Carbon County Public Health Officer Doctor Duane Abels thanked Cragen for her HIV outreach efforts. Both Dr. Abels and Cragen agreed that modern medication may drastically limit the chance of spreading the virus.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13204957/0813_Public-Health-3.mp3Next, Dr. Abels reported that COVID is making a comeback in Wyoming. The county health officer encouraged people to get tested for COVID and take appropriate action to limit exposure. However, Dr. Abels said the current COVID strain, nicknamed FLiRT, doesn’t require as lengthy a quarantine as previous strains.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205000/0813_Public-Health-4.mp3Dr. Abels asked people diagnosed with the FLiRT variant of COVID to stay home for five days.
The county health officer also cautioned residents about the likelihood of higher egg prices. Dr. Abels said avian flu has been detected in Colorado and may make its way into Wyoming.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/13205002/0813_Public-Health-5.mp3For more information about COVID and HIV testing, call Carbon County Public Health’s Rawlins office at 328-2607.
The post Public Health Warns Of Increase In Illnesses first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 12, 2024 |
Photo – A school lunch from days past – Bigfoot99 file photo
Medicine Bow elementary school students will receive hot lunches after all.
On Friday, Bigfoot99 reported that a lack of staffing meant that students at the Medicine Bow Elementary School would not be receiving freshly prepared lunches this coming school year. Carbon County School District Two Superintendent Darrin Jennings said the students would instead be provided with prepackaged lunch items.
The issue arose after the previous Medicine Bow Elementary School food service worker resigned at the end of the last school year. With no one to take their place and school beginning soon, Jennings said the lone Medicine Bow teacher would be expected to handle lunch preparations for her five students.
This is no longer the case. The principal of the Hanna and Medicine Bow elementary schools, Jackie Jones, told Bigfoot99 that she found a person to fill the open teacher’s aide position. Medicine Bow Elementary School students will not miss out on hot lunches, said Jones.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112914/0812_School-Lunch-1.mp3Several Medicine Bow residents took to Facebook saying the prepackaged lunches do not meet the federally mandated nutritional needs of elementary school students. The social media posts accused the school district of failing to address the concerns of the rural community.
Principal Jones said the claims made in the social media posts are not true. Jones said she had been searching for a teacher’s aide for the Medicine Bow Elementary School since the end of the previous school year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112916/0812_School-Lunch-2.mp3Principal Jones said she needed to wait for people to apply for the open positions within Carbon County School District Two. Not only did she hire someone to work at the Medicine Bow school, but Jones also said she found a cook’s helper for the Hanna Elementary School as well. That person will deliver hot lunches made in Hanna to Medicine Bow school students.
Principal Jones said she feels a special connection to the town of Medicine Bow. She said it was never her intention to make the residents feel like their children are less important than those in the rest of the school district.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112918/0812_School-Lunch-3.mp3Principal Jones specifically thanked School Secretary Mary George for helping to ensure that the kids of Medicine Bow received the same lunches the other Carbon County School District Two students.
The post Medicine Bow Elementary Will Receive Hot Lunches first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 12, 2024 |
Photo – County’s building in Medicine Bow – Courtesy Carbon County Commissioners
Carbon County commissioners will sell an unused building to Albany County for use as a rural school.
Garrett, Wyoming lies roughly 34 miles northeast of Medicine Bow as the crow flies. The remote Albany County town is home to the Andersons, a fifth-generation ranching family. Since 2022, Anne Anderson and her husband, Carson, have been in a legal battle with Albany County School District Number One to build a school for the small community. The Andersons were told that the low population of Garrett did not warrant its own schoolhouse.
After numerous denials by the school district, the Andersons took their case to the Wyoming Supreme Court. Their lawsuit was dismissed due to a lack of jurisdiction, but the case got the attention of the Wyoming state legislature. The state set aside $300,000 towards the construction of a new schoolhouse in the town of Garrett.
Once the money was allocated, Carson Anderson said Carbon County Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones offered an unused county building for Garrett to use as a schoolhouse.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112901/0812_School-House-1.mp3The building, located on the corner of Highway 487 and Beech Street in Medicine Bow, was purchased in 2019 using impact assistance money from the nearby TB Flats wind turbine construction project.
Commission Chairwoman Jones told Bigfoot99 that the building was originally intended to house a county Road & Bridge employee on one side and a sheriff’s deputy on the other. The sheriff at the time, Archie Roybal, planned to have a deputy live in the building and patrol Medicine Bow and the surrounding area. Chairwoman Jones said the plan did not work out. Sheriff Roybal was unable to find a deputy to live in Medicine Bow and the county hired a Road & Bridge worker who already lives in town. Additionally, the Medicine Bow governing body used impact money to open its own police department a couple of years later. The building has sat unused for the last five years. The county began searching for a buyer so the property can be returned to the tax registry. Chairwoman Jones has other plans, however. After hearing about the Anderson’s plight, the commission chairwoman offered to sell the structure to the Albany County school district for $80,000.
Anne Anderson said the structure will also serve many other purposes for the remote community.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112903/0812_School-House-2.mp3Without a nearby school, the Andersons were left with two options for their children’s education: homeschooling or sending them over 40 miles away to the Rock River school. Anne Anderson said homeschooling doesn’t offer her children the same type of education a trained teacher can provide. As for sending her kids to Rock River, Anderson said winter weather means they can’t return to the family ranch for much of the year. A community without a school doesn’t encourage families to stick aro
Commission Chairwoman Jones recommended requesting a quote from Albany County’s contractor to remove the remaining concrete foundation and fill in the hole where the building once stood.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112912/0812_School-House-6.mp3In a written statement to Bigfoot99, Chairwoman Jones stated that the commissioners felt that selling the building to Albany County benefited both parties. Carbon County may not have been able to sell the building, or it may have gone to a member of the public and continued to sit vacant and unused. This way, writes Chairwoman Jones, Carbon County passed the building onto another government entity for a public use, as it was purchased with public money.
The post Carbon County Officials To Sell Building To Albany County first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 12, 2024 |
Photo – FEMA Flood Map – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The Rawlins city council is squaring off against an immovable object—FEMA–over new federal flood insurance maps. In 2016, the Federal Emergency Management Agency began the process of updating flood plain maps across the country. The maps allegedly show properties that are vulnerable to a once in a century flood. Landowners in the flood plain must purchase insurance or be barred from receiving certain types of federal disaster assistance.
At last week’s Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Tom Sarvey informed the governing body that FEMA has delivered the city’s finalized flood insurance maps. Sarvey invited the public to view the new maps in the Rawlins City Hall.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112846/0812_Fema-Map-1.mp3The new flood maps came with federal demands. Sarvey said FEMA requires the city to accept its findings and ensure residents purchase flood insurance. The city manager said the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security has prepared a long list of ordinance changes the city must adopt.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112850/0812_Fema-Map-2.mp3Councilman Chris Weisenburg asked Sarvey what would happen if the city refuses to accept FEMA’s new flood plain maps. Councilman Weisenburg said Ward One residents are most affected by the changes. The councilman said fighting the federal government is a costly and often futile process.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112852/0812_Fema-Map-3.mp3If the city ignores or rejects the new flood maps, Sarvey said the city will be excluded from all FEMA funding in the future. The city manager added that denying FEMA’s demands may put the city at risk of losing much needed federal funding sources.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112854/0812_Fema-Map-4.mp3Councilman Weisenburg said he wasn’t suggesting that the city should refuse to accept the flood maps. The council said his question was for the benefit of residents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112856/0812_Fema-Map-5.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum asked Sarvey to arrange a public workshop. Mayor Weickum said the meeting will give the city council a chance to definitively answer residents’ questions about the new FEMA flood plain maps.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12112858/0812_Fema-Map-6.mp3City Manager Sarvey said he’ll work on setting up a future public workshop to discuss the new FEMA flood plain maps.
If the city votes to adopt the federal government’s ordinances, residents in the flood plain will need to obtain flood insurance before December.
The post Rawlins Will Hold Public Workshop To Discuss Flood Maps first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 12, 2024 |
Photo – John Gyllenborg – Courtesy gowyo.com
Another Wyoming Cowboy has been added to a preseason College football watch list.
Tight end John Michael Gyllenborg was named Friday to the John Mackey Award Preseason Watch list. Gyllenborg is the only Mountain West player named to the list this year.
Gyllenborg was named to the Preseason All-MW squad in July. He participated in all 13 games with four starts, three of which were the final three contests of the season. He pulled in 23 passes for 360 yards with three touchdowns. Gyllenborg reeled in a career-long 89-yard touchdown pass against Hawaii, which also happened to be the longest passing touchdown of Wyoming’s season.
He ended the game against the Rainbow Warriors with a career-high 128 yards receiving. Gyllenborg logged a career-high of five receptions against Texas Tech, including the game-leveling touchdown pass on fourth down in overtime.
The post Another Cowboy Added To A Preseason Watch List first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 9, 2024 |
Photo – Drawing of school lunch – Bigfoot99 file photo
Medicine Bow elementary school students will not receive hot lunches this school year due to a lack of staffing.
Medicine Bow residents are up in arms about the lunches being prepared for the upcoming school year. Elementary school students in the small town will not be served freshly cooked lunches. Instead, students will be provided with various prepackaged snack items, such as cheese sticks and frozen peanut and butter sandwiches. Meanwhile, Saratoga Elementary School students, for example, will be served cheeseburgers, tacos, and chicken wings.
Carbon County School District Two Superintendent Darrin Jennings explained that the previous Medicine Bow Elementary School food service worker resigned at the end of the last school year. With school beginning soon, Jennings said one teacher will now be expected to handle lunch preparations for five students.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09111013/0809_School-Lunch-1.mp3Jennings said the Hanna Elementary School kitchen is also short staffed, meaning the Hanna school is unable to spare someone to cook for students in Medicine Bow. The district superintendent said he is searching for employees to work in the kitchens of both the Hanna and Medicine Bow elementary schools.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09111016/0809_School-Lunch-2.mp3Being short staffed, Jennings said the Medicine Bow school has had to resort to prepackaged lunch items. The district superintendent said the food is catered to student’s tastes and meets federal school lunch guidelines.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09111018/0809_School-Lunch-3.mp3According to the United States Department of Agriculture, elementary school students must be offered at least one half-cup serving of fruits or vegetables with every school lunch. Meals must also include a source of protein, such as meat, poultry, fish, beans, or nuts. Fat-free or low-fat milk must also be served.
In June, the USDA presented Carbon County School District Number Two with the Innovative School Lunch Makeover Award for “introducing new scratch-made recipes such as Roasted Potatoes, Homestyle Chicken Soup with Vegetables, and Bison Meatballs to improve meal quality by reducing sodium levels.”
Jennings said the staffing shortage makes it impossible to offer the same freshly cooked meals to Medicine Bow Elementary School students. The district superintendent said students are always free to bring lunches from home.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09111020/0809_School-Lunch-4.mp3Several Medicine Bow residents have taken to Facebook to say the prepackaged lunches do not meet the federally mandated nutritional needs of elementary school students. Jennings offered to meet with residents in person to discuss possible solutions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09111022/0809_School-Lunch-5.mp3Medicine Bow residents have offered to come to the elementary school and cook lunch for the students. Jennings said federal law limits who may legally prepare and serve school lunches. The district superintendent invited residents to apply for open positions at the school.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09111024/0809_School-Lunch-6.mp3In the end, Jennings said his hands are tied due to the lack of staff. He asked people to apply for the numerous openings within Carbon County School District Number Two.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09111026/0809_School-Lunch-7.mp3With only five students attending this year, rumors began to circulate about closing the school and bussing students to Hanna. At the end of the last school year, Jennings and Principal Jackie Jones met with Medicine Bow parents to discuss the fate of the elementary school. Jennings said as long as students are enrolled and the classroom is staffed, he doesn’t intend to close the school.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/09111029/0809_School-Lunch-8.mp3Jennings asked Medicine Bow residents to call him at 326-5271 to schedule an in-person meeting to discuss their concerns about the elementary school.
The post Hot Lunches May Not Be Served At Medicine Bow Elementary first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 6, 2024 |
Photo – Mugshot of Wyatt Fluty – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Saratoga man who evaded Rawlins police and then went onto shoot at officers in South Dakota last year has been sentenced to over 50 years in prison.
Last month, 29-year-old Saratoga resident Wyatt James Fluty was sentenced in South Dakota’s Meade County Circuit Court. Fluty pled guilty to attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer and commission of a felony while armed. The charges stem from the August 9th, 2023, incident where Fluty opened fire on a South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper.
KOTA Territory News, out of Rapid City, South Dakota, reports that Fluty was sentenced to 50 years in prison for the attempted first-degree murder charge and five years for the firearms offense.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06102518/0806_Fluty-Sentencing-1.mp3At the time of the shooting in the Black Hills, Fluty was on the run from the Rawlins Police Department.
On July 27th, 2023, Rawlins Police spotted Fluty inside of a stolen vehicle on the east side of the city. Officers gave chase. During the pursuit, Fluty crashed through a chain link fence and drove the stolen vehicle into a ditch near the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course. Officers cordoned off the area, but Fluty managed to escape on foot.
Roughly a half hour after evading Rawlins police, a red 1991 Chevrolet half-ton pickup truck was reported stolen from the parking lot of the Rawlins Municipal Airport. At the time of the incident, Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward said the vehicle contained several guns. Chief Ward said Fluty is believed to have fled the area in the truck.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06102521/0806_Fluty-Sentencing-2.mp3After stealing the pickup truck in Rawlins, Fluty made his way to Sturgis. An unnamed South Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper spotted Fluty walking along the road and attempted to stop him for questioning. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley said Fluty opened fire on the officer. During the gunfight, Fluty unsuccessfully attempted to steal the trooper’s vehicle.
According to court documents, highway patrol trooper and an unidentified off duty out-of-state sheriff’s deputy exchanged over 40 gunshots with Fluty.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06102524/0806_Fluty-Sentencing-3.mp3Fluty is reported to have been high on methamphetamine at the time of the incident.
A biker attending the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally captured cell phone video of the officer involved shooting. The video shows Fluty in the driver’s seat of the highway patrol vehicle that he was allegedly trying to steal after being shot by the officers.
Fluty was hit multiple times and sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
KOTA Territory News reported last September that Fluty was charged with attempted first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder of a police officer. At the time, Fluty was also facing a number of additional charges related to the August 9th shootout.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06102526/0806_Fluty-Sentencing-4.mp3Fluty made a plea of “not guilty” to all charges.
On May 31st, Fluty accepted a plea deal from South Dakota Attorney General Jackley. The Saratoga man agreed to plead guilty to attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer and one count of commission of a felony while armed with a firearm.
Last month, Fluty was sentenced to 55 years in prison for his crimes. He must serve 75% of his sentence, or roughly 41 years, before being eligible for parole.
The post Saratoga Man Sentenced To Prison In South Dakota first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 6, 2024 |
Photo – Mugshot of Jaymz Jordan Bitner – Courtesy Albany County Sheriff’s Office
A man was arrested in Colorado in connection with the body found at Mirror Lake in the Snowy Range last month.
On July 4th, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office received reports of a dead body found near the shore of Mirror Lake. Later last month, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim as 56-year-old James Bitner, from Black Hawk, Colorado.
Over the weekend, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office released a statement saying that Bitner’s son, 19-year-old Jaymz Jordan Bitner, has been arrested for his father’s murder.
Court documents provided to Bigfoot99 by the Gilpin County, Colorado Clerk of Court’s Office state that Albany County Detective Jeffrey McKinney was called to assist in the investigation of a dead body found by Mirror Lake around 9:15pm on July 4th.
The dead man was wrapped in multiple layers of blankets and tarps. Ratchet straps, an electrical cord, and several types of ropes were used to secure the blankets.
Four days later, the Larimer County Coroner’s Office, in Fort Collins, Colorado, listed the cause of dead as a single 9mm gunshot wound to the back of the head. The coroner indicated that the bullet entered from the base of Bitner’s skull and exited just above the dead man’s right eyebrow. Suicide was ruled out as the cause of death.
Using fingerprints taken from the corpse, investigators learned the dead man’s identity: James Eugene Bitner of Black Hawk, Colorado. In his written affidavit, Detective McKinney states that he suspected Bitner was killed in a different location and his body dumped in the Snowy Range.
Colorado’s Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Chris Lussier began searching Bitner’s home on July 18th.
In court documents, Deputy Lussier states that cadaver-sniffing dogs discovered a shovel and a box of ammunition on Bitner’s property. A search of Bitner’s vehicle yielded several items matching those used to cover the body.
Deputy Lussier interviewed Bitner’s wife, Lori, and adopted adult son, Jaymz. Bitner’s wife allegedly told law enforcement that her husband had left them in early November of 2023 to “start over with nothing.”
Bitner’s son, Jaymz, reportedly told Deputy Lussier that his father had left in September or October of last year. The investigator noted several inconsistencies in the younger Bitner’s story.
On July 24th, investigators interviewed Bitner’s neighbor, Nicholas Stone, about the case. Stone allegedly told Albany County Sheriff’s Detective McKinney that on the night of November 12, 2023, Bitner had come to his home to drink and smoke marijuana.
The following day, Stone alleges that Bitner’s son, Jaymz, confessed to shooting his father and asked Stone to help him dispose of the corpse.
When Stone asked what happened, the younger Bitner allegedly said that he shot his father during a heated argument. Stone told officers that he denied Bitner’s request to dispose of the body.
Between November of 2023 and January of 2024, the younger Bitner allegedly pawned over $14,000 worth of gold and silver coins belonging to his father.
After speaking to Stone, the Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office charged 19-year-old Jaymz Bitner with first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence.
On August 1st, Gilpin County District Court prosecutors amended Bitner’s charges to one count of second-degree murder, one count of tampering with a deceased human body, and one count of solicitation to commit tampering with a deceased human body for requesting assistance from Nicholas Stone.
Bitner is being represented by the Colorado State Public Defender’s Office. The defendant is currently being held in the Gilpin County Jail with no bond.
The post Man Arrested In Connection To Body Found At Mirror Lake first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 6, 2024 |
Photo – Governor Mark Gordon – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Cheyenne, Governor Mark Gordon announced Monday the appointment of Ryan Roden as the interim State Public Defender. Roden’s appointment follows the retirement of State Public Defender Diane Lozano, who has served in that capacity since 2007.
Roden has worked in the Office of the State Public Defender since 1999, serving as Deputy State Public Defender since 2007. He previously served as a private practice attorney and as a Staff Attorney at the Wyoming Supreme Court.
Roden r, eceived his Bachelor of Science and Juris Doctorate degrees from the University of Wyoming.
The governor thanked Lozano for her service and welcomed Rodan to the position.
The post Governor Announces Appointment Of Interim State Public Defender first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 6, 2024 |
Photo – Maple Street house in Medicine Bow – Courtesy Google Maps
The town of Medicine Bow is requesting bids for the former marshal’s home, which is now on the market for sale.
The Medicine Bow Marshal’s Office was established in 2019 using impact assistance money from nearby wind turbine construction projects. The funding was used to buy law enforcement equipment for the newly created marshal’s department, as well as purchase a house in town. When needed, the home, located at 724 Maple Street, was offered for rent to the town’s marshals. Deputy Chris Tirpak was the last officer to occupy the house.
By the beginning of this year, the impact assistance money used to fund the Medicine Bow Marshal’s Office was quickly running out. In February, citing a lack of cash, the town voted to dissolve the marshal’s department and sell all the police equipment, including vehicles, weapons, and ammunition.
Last month, the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office made a deal with Medicine Bow to purchase three patrol vehicles and three police rifles for $55,000 and an agreement to have sheriff’s deputies patrol the town for 30 hours a month for one year.
Medicine Bow officials must decide what to do with the remaining items, specifically the house on Maple Street. During the July 8th Medicine Bow town council meeting, Clerk Treasurer Karen Heath informed the governing body that an appraisal had been done on the former marshal’s home. Clerk Heath asked the council how they wanted to dispose of the house and other unneeded town equipment.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06102528/0806_Med-Bow-House-1.mp3The town originally paid $63,000 for the Maple Street house. Last month, the property was appraised at $62,000. The governing body agreed that avoiding a realtor will provide the town with the best financial outcome from the sale. Mayor Justin George said the town can decide how much money they will accept for the house.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06102531/0806_Med-Bow-House-2.mp3Medicine Bow Attorney Cameron Smith said the town should require the buyer to sign a purchase agreement as soon as the offer is accepted. A purchase agreement is a legally binding document used in real estate transactions that outlines the terms and conditions of the sale.
Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer motioned to sell the former marshal’s department house for no less than $63,000 and a signed purchase agreement.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06102533/0806_Med-Bow-House-3.mp3The town of Medicine Bow is currently accepting offers for 724 Maple Street. Bidding for the former marshal’s house, as well as the other unneeded pieces of town equipment, ends at 5:00pm next Monday, August 9th. Bids may be physically delivered to the Medicine Bow town hall, located at 414 Birch Street, or emailed to medbowtown@gmail.com.
To schedule a viewing of the Maple Street house, call the Medicine Bow town hall at 379-2225.
The post Medicine Bow Officials To Sell Marshal’s House And Equipment first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 6, 2024 |
Photo – Left to right – Briana Yukniewicz, Deputy Zach Fall, and Sheriff Bakken – Courtesy CCSO
A local, traveling baked-goods vendor received recognition for donating two snowmobile helmets to the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office.
During the July 15th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Sheriff Alex Bakken said Deputy Zach Fall and his fiancé used the proceeds from their newly created mobile business, Bagels and Badges, to purchase two 509 brand snowmobile helmets for the sheriff’s department.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06102514/0805_Helmet-Donation-1.mp3Sheriff Bakken said he personally enjoys the food from Bagels and Badges.
Deputy Fall’s fiancé Briana Yukniewicz, who was a police officer for seven years, said she started making her own bagels while living in Tampa, Floridia. As the owner of Bagels and Badges, Yukniewicz said she wants to show her appreciation to local emergency personnel.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06102516/0805_Helmet-Donation-2.mp3The county commissioners thanked Deputy Fall and his fiancé for the generous donation.
The post Local Business Donates Helmets To Sheriff’s Office first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 5, 2024 |
Photo – David Vanleer – Courtesy CCSO
The missing Snowy Range motorcyclist has been found alive.
Around 9:00 am Friday morning, Carbon County Search and Rescue East Division was alerted to a missing person in the Snowy Range. Seventy-five-year-old David Vanleer disappeared while spreading his brother’s ashes in the mountains.
Earlier Friday morning, Vanleer’s daughter, MacKenzie Sohrakoff asked the public for help locating her missing father. A Facebook post from Sohrakoff stated that Vanleer had been missing since Thursday afternoon. Vanleer was listed as an insulin dependent diabetic riding an Aprilla brand motorcycle. The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office was alerted to the disappearance Friday morning and dispatched the local search and rescue team.
Roughly three hours after Carbon County Search and Rescue was called in, Vanleer was located alive. According to social media posts from Sohrakoff, Vanleer crashed his motorcycle while in the mountains, suffering only minor injuries. Sohrakoff wrote that Vanleer will stay in Encampment for a few days to rest and recover before returning home to Boise, Idaho.
The post Missing Motorcyclist Found In Snowy Range first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 5, 2024 |
Photo – Memorial Hospital of Carbon County – Bigfoot99 file photo
Tomorrow, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners will decide if a taxpayer funded hospital district will be put on November’s general election ballot.
On June 18th, Memorial Hospital of Carbon County Board of Trustees members Garry Goergen and Jerry Steele asked for a hospital district to be added to the 2024 ballot. Goergen said the medical facility needs more money. The board argues that a taxpayer funded healthcare district is the only way to keep the hospital open and funded.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112036/0805_MHCC-1.mp3Goergen said he believes that Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is the only critical care hospital in Wyoming without an additional funding source outside of seeing patients. The hospital board member reiterated that a healthcare district appears to be the only option left to properly fund the facility.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112038/0805_MHCC-2.mp3County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett presented the proposed hospital district map to the commissioners. Clerk Bartlett said if the hospital district passes, Rawlins, Sinclair, Hanna, and residents of the surrounding unincorporated areas will see their property taxes rise.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112040/0805_MHCC-3.mp3The Memorial Hospital of Carbon County Board of Trustees is proposing a 3-mill property tax levy on residents who live within the proposed hospital district. The board members said they expect the hospital district to bring in an additional $1.5 million to the cash-strapped facility. The money will primarily be used to maintain the nearly 50-year-old building.
The board of commissioners voted to hold a public meeting on August 6th to decide if the hospital district will be included on November’s general election ballot.
Since then, the hospital’s Director of Strategic Operations, Stephanie Hinkle, has begun a campaign to educate voters about the importance of the Rawlins hospital.
During the July 15th commissioners meeting, Hinkle presented statistics on the number of patients treated at Memorial Hospital in 2023.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112043/0805_MHCC-4.mp3Hinkle said of the 14,678 registered hospital patients in 2023, 88% of them were Carbon County residents. Eighty-four percent of the patients live in Rawlins. Saratoga residents made up 7.3% of all patients seen in 2023, with Sinclair, Hanna, and Encampment rounding out the top five.
At the July 15th commissioners meeting, Hinkle spoke about the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems, or HCAHPS, scores. On the nationwide survey, Hinkle said patients scored Memorial Hospital at or above the state average.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112045/0805_MHCC-5.mp3The Wyoming Business Council Board of Directors is behind the effort. Board member Pam Thayer said the medical facility is essential to the economic growth of the county.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112047/0805_MHCC-6.mp3At the June 18th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Commissioner John Johnson said he plans to let the voters decide on the fate of the hospital district.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112049/0805_MHCC-7.mp3Despite the support of many county officials, not everyone is in favor of the hospital district. Some Carbon County residents, especially those in Hanna, question why their taxes should go up to support a hospital they may choose not to visit. For example, a recent construction accident in Hanna resulted in the victim being transported to Casper for treatment.
The Board of Carbon County Commissioners will hold a public hearing tomorrow morning to determine if the hospital district will be included on this year’s ballot. In a written statement to Bigfoot99, Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones advised the public to attend the hearing and voice their support or opposition to the measure. Chairwoman Jones wrote that the hospital district boundaries will be established during tomorrow’s meeting. If enough people want change, it can happen, wrote Jones.
The Carbon County Commissioners meeting begins tomorrow at 9:00am on the second floor of the Carbon Building, located at 215 West Buffalo Street in Rawlins. Chairwoman Jones said she expects the hospital district public hearing to begin around 11:00am.
The post Hospital District Ballot Decision Will Be Made Tomorrow first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 5, 2024 |
Photo – Prairie dogs – Courtesy National Park Service website
Hanna residents are demanding that their cash-strapped town take action to do something about the prairie dog population in town.
During the July 9th Hanna town council meeting, a resident asked what the governing body is going to do to combat the overabundance of prairie dogs in town. Mayor Jayson Nordquist said he isn’t sure the town can afford to do anything about the rodents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112027/0805_Hanna-Pest-Control-1.mp3Another resident said foxes are effective at reducing prairie dog populations. The Hanna town council agreed. Mayor Nordquist asked where the foxes have gone.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112030/0805_Hanna-Pest-Control-2.mp3Attendees of the July 9th town council meeting said no one has seen any foxes around Hanna this year.
Another Hanna resident said badgers have taken up residence in the town’s cemetery. The resident said reducing the local prairie dog and ground squirrel populations will have the added benefit of eliminating the badgers from the graveyard.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112032/0805_Hanna-Pest-Control-3.mp3The resident suggested contacting Carbon County Weed and Pest to trap the prairie dogs and remove them from town.
Due to the danger of unintentionally harming pets, Mayor Nordquist advised residents against using poison on the prairie dogs. The mayor said residents are not permitted to shoot the rodents, even with air guns.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112034/0805_Hanna-Pest-Control-4.mp3In the end, the Hanna town council agreed that something needed to be done about the overabundance of prairie dogs in town. However, the governing body did not decide on exactly what to do about the burrowing rodents.
The post Hanna Residents Demand Officials Take Care Of Town Pests first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 5, 2024 |
Photo – John Hoyland poster – Courtesy gowyo.com
In sports, Wyoming’s John Hoyland will start the football season once again on the list of elite place kickers.
Hoyland was named to the 2024 Lou Groza Award Preseason Watchlist. This is the third season that Hoyland has made the list.
The Cowboys went out a winner last season on Hoyland’s pin-point accurate kicking. Things weren’t looking good for Wyoming in the final minutes of last year’s Arizona Bowl in Tucson.
Hoyland made 21 field goals last season. None was bigger than the final one, to put an exclamation mark on the Arizona bowl win over Toledo. Starting quarterback Andrew Peasley was sidelined for an injury during the Cowboys’ final drive. With UW trailing 15-13 with four minutes left in the fourth quarter, backup Evan Svoboda drove the Cowboys down the field, piecing together a 61-yard drive to set up Hoyland for the game winner. Do or die.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/05112025/0805_Cowboys-win-AZ-Bowl.mp3The 33rd Annual Lou Groza Collegiate Place-Kicker Award, presented by the Orange Bowl, recognizes the three finalists during a celebration in Palm Beach County, culminating with a gala awards banquet on December 9th in Florida.
The Award is named for National Football League Hall of Fame kicker Lou “The Toe” Groza, who played 21 seasons with the Cleveland Browns. Groza won four NFL championships with Cleveland and was named NFL Player of the Year in 1954. Although an All-Pro offensive lineman as well, Groza ushered in the notion that there should be a place on an NFL roster for a kicker.
The post Wyoming’s Kicker Named To Award Watchlist in 2024 first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 2, 2024 |
Photo – 206 fire – Bigfoot99 file photo
Fire crews are beginning to get a handle on the two large fires burning in Carbon County.
Around three o’clock Monday afternoon, a fire was spotted near the Jack Creek area of the Medicine Bow National Forest. Carbon County firefighters joined forces with the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service to battle the blaze.
Speaking to Bigfoot99 yesterday afternoon, US Forest Service Public Affairs Officer Aaron Voos said firefighters appear to have the Jack Creek Fire under control.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/02114635/0802_County-Fires-1.mp3On Thursday morning, Bigfoot99 reported seeing a Cheyenne Fire Department truck shortly after 6:00 a.m. heading west on County Road 500 toward tbe general direction of the Jack Creek Fire. Voos said he didn’t know exactly what Cheyenne firefighters were doing in Saratoga yesterday morning. However, the Forest Service public affairs officer said the truck may be relieving other firefighters or patrolling for hot spots.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/02114637/0802_County-Fires-2.mp3Voos said investigators have not determined the cause of the Jack Creek Fire.
Another fire is burning in Carbon County this morning. On Tuesday evening, Carbon County Firefighters were called to the scene of a 15-acre brush fire located near milepost 206 on Interstate 80, west of Rawlins.
By Wednesday afternoon, after burning 90 acres of dry grassland, fire crews appeared to have the 206 Fire under control. However, that evening, high winds reignited the flames and caused the blaze to burn over 40 additional acres.
During a Thursday afternoon phone call, Carbon County Fire Warden John Rutherford told Bigfoot99 that crews were making progress on the fire west of Rawlins. Rutherford said fire crews had encircled the blaze and were mopping up any remaining smaller fires. The county fire warden reported that the 206 Fire appeared to be under control.
The 206 Fire was caused when a wheel assembly broke off a semi-truck traveling on the interstate and landed in the dry grass next to the roadway.
The post Update on Fires In Carbon County first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 2, 2024 |
Photo – Victoria Tidball – Bigfoot99 file photo
The woman accused of shooting at her boyfriend’s house and car last December on the east side of Saratoga this past December has pled guilty to attempted manslaughter.
Twenty-nine-year-old Victoria Rose Tidball is accused of firing over 40 pistol rounds at the home and vehicle of her then boyfriend, Bradley McBride.
Court documents state that in the early morning hours of December 16, 2023, Tidball and McBride, who were dating at the time, had a heated argument after McBride mentioned he wanted to sell his dog. Following the agreement, Tidball allegedly retrieved a Glock handgun from her truck and fired at McBride’s home and vehicle. The victim, who lives on the 300 block of North Veterans Street in Saratoga, was uninjured in the attack.
After the shooting, Tidball fled with 32-year-old bartender Cody Ellenson. Tidball was arrested 11 days later in Dawson County, Nebraska. The Carbon County Prosecutor’s Officer filed eight charges against the female suspect, including attempted first-degree murder.
Tidball was arraigned on March 18th, when she pleaded not guilty to all charges.
During a pretrial conference on June 17th, Tidball agreed to plead guilty to one count of attempted voluntary manslaughter, a charge that carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The suspect will be sentenced on October 14th.
The post December Shooting Suspect Pleads Guilty At Pre-Trial Conference first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 2, 2024 |
Photo – US southern border – Bigfoot99 file photo
Wyoming’s Governor Mark Gordon announced Thursday that he will dispatch law enforcement personnel to the southern border in Texas to help the Lone Star State grapple with the invasion of foreigners that has been happening since the Biden-Harris administration took office.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/02114649/0802_Joe-Biden.mp3Simply seeking asylum is not a guarantee that the claim is legitimate.
Governor Gordon will deploy 10 Wyoming Highway Patrol Troopers to Texas. The Wyoming Office of Homeland Security will coordinate the transfer. During their 14-day deployment, the state troopers will provide law enforcement and emergency assistance in Texas. Two deputies from the Natrona County Sheriff’s Department will head to Texas later this year.
Governor Gordon said in a statement, “Wyoming is committed to closing the open Biden-Harris border. As part of our ongoing relationship with Texas, we will supply resources as they are requested while also making sure we are safe here at home. We are immensely grateful for the willingness of Wyoming law enforcement members and their families to assist in this important effort to help secure our southern border.”
This year’s deployment of state troopers follows a similar partnership with Texas, one year ago, to help with border crisis that the Biden Administration supported with campaign speeches in 2020.
In August 2023, Governor Gordon authorized the deployment of eight Department of Corrections and local law enforcement personnel to provide support along the southern border. Following last year’s deployment, Texas Rangers traveled to Wyoming earlier this year to provide valuable training to Wyoming law enforcement officers.
During the 2024 Legislative session, $750,000 was allocated to the Governor’s Office for expenses to assist border state law enforcement efforts.
The post Wyoming To Send Law Enforcement Officers To Texas first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 2, 2024 |
Photo – Sage grouse – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is asking people to help find cases of West Nile Virus in dead sage grouse.
Wyoming Game and Fish Biologist Nyssa Whitford said her agency is collecting sage grouse carcasses for West Nile Virus testing. Whitford asked anyone who finds a recently deceased sage grouse to contact Game and Fish or collect the dead animal in a bag and quickly take it to the nearest Game and Fish office.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/02114639/0802_Dead-Sage-Grouse-1.mp3If the sage grouse died of obvious causes, such as being hit by a car or attacked by a predator, Whitford said you do not need to report the dead bird to Game and Fish. However, if you discover an intact sage grouse carcass, Whitford said to report it to your local Game and Fish office as soon as possible. The biologist said summer heat will cause the birds to decompose quickly.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/02114641/0802_Dead-Sage-Grouse-2.mp3The collected sage grouse carcasses will be sent to the Wildlife Forensics & Fish Health Lab in Laramie for West Nile Virus testing.
West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause fever, headaches, body and joint pain, vomiting, and diarrhea in humans. In more extreme cases, the virus can even cause paralysis. In sage grouse, West Nile Virus has an approximately 25% mortality rate.
Whitford said evidence suggests that Wyoming’s sage grouse are not in the midst of a West Nile Virus outbreak. The Game and Fish biologist said the mosquito that transmits the virus, Culex tarsalis, thrives in warmer weather.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/02114644/0802_Dead-Sage-Grouse-3.mp3Whitford said a lack of rain is concentrating animals around small pools of mosquito infected water, potentially increasing the likelihood of the animals contracting West Nile Virus.
The Game and Fish biologist said the last West Nile Virus outbreak in sage grouse occurred roughly 20 years ago. Due to their lack of natural immunity, Whitford said the birds are highly susceptible to the virus.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/02114646/0802_Dead-Sage-Grouse-4.mp3On July 22nd, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department began calling for sage grouse reporting. As of Wednesday afternoon, Whitford said she has not received any reports of dead sage grouse. Game and Fish will perform sage grouse testing until cool weather thins out the mosquito populations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/02114648/0802_Dead-Sage-Grouse-5.mp3Whitford said the most effective way to reduce the spread of West Nile Virus is to remove standing bodies of water where mosquitoes breed.
If you find a sage grouse carcass without an obvious cause of death, call the Wyoming Game and Fish Laramie Regional Office at 745-4046 or place the dead bird in a plastic bag and bring it to 1212 South Adams Street in Laramie.
On its website, Game and Fish states that the chance of getting the virus from handling a dead bird is remote, but picking up the birds with an inverted plastic sack while wearing gloves is recommended.
The post Wyoming Game And Fish Collects Dead Sage Grouse For Testing first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 2, 2024 |
Photo – US Secret Service advertisement – Courtesy Secret Service website
U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) introduced a resolution formally condemning the attempted assassination of President Donald J. Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania north of Pittsburgh on July 13, 2024. The resolution passed by unanimous consent with no roll call taken.
The symbolic resolution, which received bipartisan support, also honors Corey Comperatore, who died protecting his family at the rally, as well as David Dutch and James Copenhaver, who were critically injured. The resolution calls for unity and civility across the country.
Senator Barrasso said in a statement, “Our country was inches away from a catastrophic event that would have changed the course of our history. “Today, the United States Senate came together in condemning this horrifying act against a former president and current Republican candidate for president.”
Texas Senator Ted Cruz, this week, described the attempt on Trump’s life as the “worst and most catastrophic security failure of the Secret Service since 1981, the attempted assassination of Ronald Regan.”
Senator Cruz directly accused the Secret Service of lying in their testimony to the Senate this week. He also took aim at the former head of the Secret Service, Kimberly Cheatle, who resigned under pressure 10 days after the assassination attempt.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/02114651/0802_Sen-Cruz.mp3Senator Barrasso said that Congress is determined to find answers to last month’s assassination attempt on Trump in Pennsylvania.
The post Wyoming Senator Introduces Resolution On Assassination Attempt first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 2, 2024 |
Photo – Nomination poster – Courtesy gowyo.com
In sports, Wyoming wide receiver Will Pelissier picked up two nominations this week headed into the fall season.
Pelissier has been named to the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List, joining a record 111 other nominees from College Football’s Bowl Subdivision. Pelissier is a native of Big Horn, Wyoming. The Big Horn native battled an injury early last season but came on strong at the end. He caught seven passes for 79 yards and one touchdown.
Pelissier boasted his one touchdown of the season against Nevada, hauling in a 34-yard score from quarterback Andrew Peasley in a 42-6 win.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/02114632/0801_Will-Pelissier.mp3Pelissier has also been nominated for the Allstate Good Hands Team.
The Cowboys open the season on Saturday, August 31 with a 8:30 p.m. at Arizona State in Tempe.
The post Cowboy’s Wide Receiver Picks Up Two Nominations This Week first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 1, 2024 |
Photo – First practice for Cowboys this season – Courtesy gowyo.com
In Sports, the Wyoming football team opened practice in Laramie on Wednesday.
This is a new era in Wyoming football. Craig Bohl is gone. The former head coach stepped down following the nail-biter win over Toledo, 16-15, on December 30th last year. The Cowboys came from behind with 10 points in the fourth quarter to claim the dramatic, send-off win for Bohl.
First year head-coach Jay Sawvel is now at the helm. Sawvel previously served as the defensive coordinator and safety coach.
Sawvel began his coaching career at Eastern Kentucky in the late 1990s at Eastern Kentucky. He went onto coach defensive backs at Southern Illinois, Northern Illinois, Minnesota and as defensive coordinator at Wake Forest.
Sawvel landed in Laramie in 2020 as defensive coordinator.
Sawvel said he liked what the Cowboys put on the field yesterday.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01132439/0801_Coach-Sawvel.mp3The Cowboys came out of the chute yesterday looking stronger and faster than last year’s team. According to the team stat sheet, offensive players added a combined 437 pounds and defensive players added a combined 346 pounds since the veterans returned in January. The freshmen class is bigger, too. After arriving on campus in June the incoming freshmen added a combined 105 pounds.
The post Wyoming Football Has First Practice In New Era first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 1, 2024 |
Photo – Smoke from the Jack Creek fire – Courtesy Cecelia Villela-Mikesell
The Jack Creek fire west of Saratoga has not spread since Tuesday, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
Around three o’clock Monday afternoon, a fire was spotted near the Jack Creek area of the Medicine Bow National Forest. Carbon County, Bureau of Land Management, and Forest Service firefighters teamed up to battle the blaze.
Bigfoot99 contacted US Forest Service Public Affairs Officer Aaron Voos on Wednesday afternoon for an update. Voos said the Jack Creek fire remained contained to an 18-acre area.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01111019/0801_Jack-Creek-Fire-1.mp3Voos said fire crews were concerned about yesterday’s windy, red flag weather conditions, but the wind hasn’t had much of an effect on the fire. As of Wednesday afternoon, an official cause of the blaze had not been released.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01111022/0801_Jack-Creek-Fire-2.mp3Voos said no news is good news when it comes to wildfires. Despite strong winds and low humidity, the Jack Creek fire has not spread beyond the initial burn area.
Meanwhile, the 206 Fire, burning along Interstate 80 west of Rawlins blew up to 130 acres Thursday evening, after being nearly contained earlier in the day. High winds reignited the flames.
On Tuesday evening, Carbon County Firefighters received a report of a 10-to-15-acre brush fire located near milepost 206 on Interstate 80, west of Rawlins.
County fire crews worked through the night into Wednesday to prevent the flames from spreading. Carbon County Fire Warden John Rutherford told Bigfoot99 that the blaze was nearly out of control until the sun went down on Tuesday and moisture in the air increased. At that point, firefighters were able to begin making progress against the flames.
By early Wednesday afternoon, the 206 Fire had burned 90 acres and was mostly contained. Fire Warden Rutherford said he expected the fire to be completely contained by this morning. Then the weather conditions changed.
Around 4:00pm yesterday afternoon, Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken released a statement saying that high winds had caused the 206 Fire to reignite. Both the east and west lanes of Interstate 80 were closed as fire crews worked to extinguish the blaze. Sheriff Bakken said large volumes of smoke caused extremely limited visibility near the fire.
Rutherford said the 206 Fire was caused when the wheel bearings failed on a semi-truck traveling along I-80, causing the wheels to fly off the truck and into the dry grass next to the highway. The dual tires of a semi-truck, including the wheel and hub assembly, were found at the origin of the fire.
Carbon County, Rawlins, Wamsutter, Sinclair, and Bureau of Land Management fire crews are working together to get the blaze under control.
Fire Warden Rutherford thanked all the volunteers who are battling the fire. However, with the current prevalence of fires, Rutherford said fire crews are stretched thin and more volunteers are needed. The county fire warden asked anyone interested in being a firefighter to contact their nearest fire department.
The post County Firefighters Spread Thin Throughout The County first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 1, 2024 |
Photo – Wyoming’s Office of Homeland Security logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
Bigfoot99 has obtained more information about a story we reported on earlier this week.
During the July 15th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Emergency Manager Lenny Layman said the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security has chosen to stop funding subscription services through its State Homeland Security Grant Program.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01111014/0801_Homeland-Grant-1.mp3At the time, Layman said he didn’t know why the state was ending subscription payments. The county emergency manager said he was simply told by more than one person about the change in homeland security funding.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01111017/0801_Homeland-Grant-2.mp3Bigfoot99 reached out to the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security for an explanation of the policy change.
In a written statement to Bigfoot99, Wyoming Office of Homeland Security Grants and Finance Section Chief Ashley Paulsrud wrote, “There has been no policy change regarding the funding of subscriptions. Should a policy change occur, we will notify the appropriate parties in advance.”
So the funding Layman was worried about losing should remain intact unless the office in Cheyenne announces a change.
The post Misinformation Causes Worry For Emergency Manager first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
August 1, 2024 |
Photo – Map of the River Street project in Saratoga – Courtesy Town of Saratoga
In Saratoga, work is progressing on the River Street water line replacement project, according to the town’s public works director.
In 2019, voters approved the 6th Penny Special Purpose Tax to fund infrastructure improvements across Carbon County. In Saratoga, voters approved replacing the existing water mains running beneath the North Platte River, Spring Avenue, and River Street.
In 2022, Rock Springs contractor Lewis and Lewis was hired to begin the first phase of the water main replacement project under Spring Avenue. Equipment issues and ground water flooding the project trench in front of Town hall caused extensive delays as crews developed a work-around. The contracted completion of date of fall 2022 was not met. The water line replacement project was finally completed last summer.
In June of this year, Cheyenne-based Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel was hired to complete the next phase of the water main replacement project: River Street. Penner said the job is more than halfway done.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01111024/0801_River-Street-1.mp3In 2022, Lewis and Lewis, the contractor, ran into unexpected delays caused by underground water. The problem got so bad that the town council voted to withhold hundreds of thousands of dollars from the contractor until the job was finished.
As with most construction projects, Penner said the current contractor, Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel, has also run into unexpected issues. However, the public works director said he is happy with how the contractor is performing the job.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01111027/0801_River-Street-2.mp3Penner said he expects the water line replacement project to be completed by the end of this month. After the project is finished, Rocky Mountain Sand and Gravel will lay a protective chip seal layer along South River Street. However, delays are not out of the question, said Penner.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01111029/0801_River-Street-3.mp3The River Street water line replacement project is just one of Saratoga’s seven listed 6th Penny Tax projects. Penner said he intends to finish every voter approved project as soon as possible.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01111032/0801_River-Street-4.mp3Penner said since the COVID era, the cost of all the 6th Penny Tax projects have significantly increased. However, thanks to several grants, such as the American Rescue Plan Act, Saratoga should have enough money to complete everything on the list.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01111034/0801_River-Street-5.mp3High inflation has put certain projects out of reach for some municipalities. In Rawlins, the Edinburgh Street repair project went from an estimated cost of $2.3 million in 2021 to $8.6 million now. Penner said Saratoga’s River Street water line replacement project was not immune to inflation. What started as a $1.4 million job has increased to nearly $2 million. Penner said he’s had to scale back the project to keep costs down.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01111036/0801_River-Street-6.mp3Penner said Saratoga’s River Street water line replacement project should be finished by this fall. After the job is finished, Penner said he will begin a sewer project on the west side of town and look for a home for a new water storage tank.
The post Work Progressing On Second Phase Of River Street Project first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 30, 2024 |
Photo – Fire Danger Sign in Rawlins – Bigfoot99 file photo
A 15-acre fire burning west of Saratoga on Monday in the Jack Creek area of the Medicine Bow National Forest appeared to be largely under control Tuesday morning.
According to a release from Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken, the fire was first spotted around 3 p.m. Monday afternoon.
By 10:30 last night, the fire had consumed approximately 15 acres with moderate spread potential.
No structures had been damaged and fire fighters had built lines to control the flames from spreading.
Carbon County firefighters left the scene by midnight but were back in the burn area Tuesday morning.
Residents are cautioned to avoid travel in the Jack Creek area so crews can continue their fire suppression work.
The Tuesday morning update from Carbon County Fire Warden John Rutherford notes that the burn zone was still estimated at 15 acres with no new growth. Red Flag warnings are in effect for Tuesday until 8 p.m.
The post 15 Acre Jack Creek Area Fire Not Spreading first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 30, 2024 |
Photo – Wyoming Office of Homeland Security logo – Courtesy WY Homeland Security
The State Office of Homeland Security will cease payments for emergency subscription services.
During the July 15th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Emergency Manager Lenny Layman said the Wyoming State Office of Homeland Security has shifted its funding priorities. Layman said recipients of the State Homeland Security Grant Program, or SHSP, will no longer be permitted to use grant money to pay for subscription services. The county emergency manager said he uses the entire SHSP grant for subscriptions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131349/0730_Homeland-Security-Grant-1.mp3Roughly 15 of Wyoming’s 23 counties use the State Homeland Security Grant Program to pay for subscriptions to emergency and security services. Layman said he’ll try to convince the state to give everyone more time to find alternative funding sources for their subscriptions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131351/0730_Homeland-Security-Grant-2.mp3Layman said he expects to receive at least a year and a half’s notice before the SHSP funding stops. After that, the county will need to cover the $31,000 in annual subscription fees. The grant money is used for services such as Alert Sense, the county’s emergency notification system.
Layman said he doesn’t know why the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security has chosen to stop funding subscription payments. The emergency manager said he has always obtained the proper authorizations required by the State Homeland Security Grant Program.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131353/0730_Homeland-Security-Grant-3.mp3Bigfoot99 reached out to Wyoming Office of Homeland Security Grants Manager Darryl Erickson for a statement regarding the SHSP policy change. As of the reporting of this story, Erickson has not responded to our request. Bigfoot99 will continue to investigate and report back with any new information.
The post State To Quit Paying For Emergency Subscription Services first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 30, 2024 |
Photo – City of Rawlins and WYDOT logos – Bigfoot99 file photo
Ballooning inflation may put the cost of the proposed Rawlins Higley Boulevard underpass out of reach.
In August of 2021, following the completion of the Higley Boulevard Corridor Study, the Rawlins Urban Systems Committee recommended building a pedestrian underpass to connect neighborhoods on the east side of the city to the schools.
The city will work with the Wyoming Department of Transportation to fund the project. In July of 2022, the Rawlins city council agreed to pay 9.51% of the total project cost. At the time, the Higley Boulevard pedestrian underpass was estimated to cost roughly $1.6 million in total. The city was expected to put $158,341 of 6th Penny Tax revenue towards the project with WYDOT covering the remaining $1.5 million.
The agreement with the state agency stipulated that if the project costs exceeded the estimated price, the city will cover the difference.
Work on the Higley Boulevard pedestrian underpass stalled as the Rawlins Urban Systems Committee tried to get the project off the ground.
At the July 16th Rawlins city council meeting, Councilman Darril Garner, council liaison to the Urban Systems Committee, said the cost of the project has increased by nearly a million dollars since 2021.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131355/0730_Rawlins-Underpass-1.mp3Councilman Garner said between WYDOT’s promised $1.5 million and the city’s match, the Urban Systems Committee has $1.7 million set aside for the project. The councilman said if the project costs can be reduced by roughly $300,000, construction on the Higley Boulevard pedestrian underpass may begin in two years.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131357/0730_Rawlins-Underpass-2.mp3In May, Councilman Garner said a geologist was studying the local water table to determine if a pumping system will be needed to prevent the underpass from flooding. At the July 16th meeting, Councilman Chris Weisenburg asked about the outcome of that study. Councilman Garner said the findings will be presented to the Urban Systems Committee in October.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131359/0730_Rawlins-Underpass-3.mp3The Rawlins Urban Systems Committee is also trying to repair the 6th Street Bridge, which crosses over the Union Pacific railroad tracks. In May, Urban Systems Committee Chairwoman Judy Dixon told the city council that WYDOT will cover the bulk of the project, estimated at $2 million. No date was given for the start of the 6th Street Bridge repairs.
The post Inflation Costs May Cause Delay Or Cancellation Of City Projects first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 30, 2024 |
Photo – Logo for Digger’s Drive-in – Courtesy Med Bow Rec Board
Despite the unpredictable weather, the Medicine Bow Recreation Board held the first showing at its outdoor drive-in theater.
On Saturday night, on the field of the public park on Cottonwood Street, people gathered in their vehicles at the Diggers Drive-In to watch the 1978 romantic, musical comedy, Grease, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton John.
Medicine Bow Recreation Board Chairwoman Jacque George said technical problems and the weather briefly delayed the first showing at the newly constructed drive-in theater. Thanks to the help of local business owners, George said they were eventually able to begin the movie. The rec board chairwoman said despite the issues, people seemed to enjoy the experience.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131333/0730_Drive-in-Movie-1.mp3George said the rec board is considering ways to make the drive-in theater better, such as building a permanent movie screen. The cloth screen was too susceptible to the wind, said George.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131335/0730_Drive-in-Movie-2.mp3George said approximately 25 vehicles attended the first Diggers Drive-In outdoor movie screening. However, George said that number does not account for multiple people in each vehicle.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131337/0730_Drive-in-Movie-3.mp3The movie’s sound was transmitted through the car radios. After some fine-tuning by her husband, Medicine Bow Mayor Justin George, people began to hear the film clearly.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131339/0730_Drive-in-Movie-4.mp3George said the rec board chose to show the movie Grease because of the first annual Mild to Wild Car Show, which also took place on Saturday. While the rec board hasn’t decided what the next film will be, George said she is pushing for a more family friendly movie.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131341/0730_Drive-in-Movie-5.mp3Now that the drive-in theater is a proven concept, George said the Medicine Bow Recreation Board is planning to include a movie in its Halloween activities. George said the board hasn’t decided on what film to show, but she offered two suggestions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131343/0730_Drive-in-Movie-6.mp3However, if it snows on Halloween, George said the drive-in theater may not be accessible.
The drive-in movie is offered free of charge by the Medicine Bow Recreation Board. To supplement the board’s budget, concessions were sold during the screening. George said money generated through concession sales will be used to fund future events.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131345/0730_Drive-in-Movie-7.mp3George said rec board members and Medicine Bow residents volunteered to work the drive-in and sell concessions. The rec board chairwoman said volunteers are crucial to ensuring these types of activities can continue.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/30131347/0730_Drive-in-Movie-8.mp3George said she is hoping to have the next Diggers Drive-In movie screening some time in August. She asked anyone interested in volunteering for recreation board events to contact the Medicine Bow Town Hall.
The post First Showing At Drive-In A Success first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 29, 2024 |
Photo – Union Pacific Railroad’s steam engine #4014 – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
People from around the country came to Medicine Bow to see the largest operational steam locomotive in the world.
The Union Pacific Big Boy, also known as 4014, is one of 25 Big Boy-type locomotives built in the 1940’s. The entire Big Boy line was decommissioned in 1962. Most of the engines were scrapped, with only a handful left on display in parks and museums.
From 2014 to 2019, the Union Pacific steam train program painstakingly restored 4014 back to working order. The work crews were often forced to fabricate missing or damaged parts for the 600-ton locomotive from scratch. The iconic 4014 is now the last functional Big Boy left in the world.
After completing the restoration in 2019, Union Pacific has taken the world’s largest operational steam locomotive on cross country tours.
In late June, the Big Boy set off on the Westward Bound Tour, traveling from Cheyenne to California and back. Friday afternoon marked the locomotive’s last stop in Carbon County before returning to the capital city to mark the end of Cheyenne Frontier Days.
Hundreds of people gathered outside of the Medicine Bow Museum as the gigantic machine rolled into town.
People came from near and far for a chance to see the Big Boy in person. Evan Bock, from Laramie, said he is fascinated by the technology of the steam locomotive.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104624/0729_Big-Boy-2.mp3Jeremy Cook drove from Colorado Springs to see 4014 up close. Cook said he likes learning about the story of the Union Pacific Big Boys. Cook thanked Union Pacific for restoring the locomotive.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104626/0729_Big-Boy-3.mp3Liam Foley also came from Colorado Springs, Colorado. Foley said he is impressed by the size of the 132-foot-long machine.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104628/0729_Big-Boy-4.mp3George Stewart came all the way from Folsom, California to see 4014 stop in Medicine Bow. Stewart said he has a unique connection to the Big Boy. A print given to him by his Great Uncle is now hanging in the Union Pacific Cheyenne Depot Museum.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104630/0729_Big-Boy-5.mp3The Union Pacific Big Boy spent roughly 40 minutes in Medicine Bow before continuing on to Cheyenne. It will spend about a month being serviced in the capital city before heading south on the Heartland of America Tour.
The post World’s Largest Operational Steam Engine Stops In Medicine Bow first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 29, 2024 |
Photo – Tom Sarvey with Caleb Miiler – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The City of Rawlins presented its Employee of the Quarter award to firefighter Caleb Miiller.
Four times a year, Rawlins city staff select an employee to recognize for going above and beyond their normal duties.
During the July 16th Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Tom Sarvey awarded the Employee of the Second Quarter to Caleb Miiller. Sarvey said Miiller is a skilled mechanic who singlehandedly keeps the city’s fire equipment operational.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104553/0726_Rawlins-Award-1.mp3Sarvey said, when necessary, Miiller will contact outside agencies for help with unusual or especially difficult repairs. The city manager said Miiller’s work ethic makes him a valuable employee.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104556/0726_Rawlins-Award-2.mp3Miiller thanked the city. The firefighter said he stays up to date on his mechanical training so he can be prepared to fix anything that goes wrong with the firefighting equipment.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104558/0726_Rawlins-Award-3.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum thanked Miiller for his hard work and complimented the firefighter on his bagpipe playing skills.
Miiller will receive a $300 bonus and have his name engraved on the 2024 Employee of the Quarter plaque in the Rawlins City Hall.
The post City Of Rawlins Presents Employee Of The Second Quarter first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 29, 2024 |
Photo – A rifle club in Colorado – Bigfoot99 file photo
Despite receiving support from the Board of Carbon County Commissioners, Natrona County was not chosen as the site of the future state shooting complex. The facility will be built in Cody.
In March of 2023, the Wyoming state legislature passed Senate File SF0169. The bill created a 12-member task force to select a location for a state shooting complex.
District 11 Senator Larry Hicks sponsored the bill. Senator Hicks told Bigfoot99 as more and more states suppress their residents’ ability to legally own firearms, the shooting complex will demonstrate Wyoming’s dedication to the constitution of the United States.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104600/0729_-Shooting-Complex-1.mp3Senator Hicks said Colorado’s strict gun laws have forced firearms enthusiasts out of the state. Constructing a large shooting complex in Wyoming will entice those same sportsmen to visit and spend money in the Cowboy State.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104603/0729_-Shooting-Complex-2.mp3After the passage of Senate File SF0169, the search was on to find the perfect location for the state shooting complex.
This past January, members of the Rawlins Shooting Range Advisory Board told the city council that they would like the shooting complex to be built in the city, but only if the state pays to maintain and staff the large facility.
Two months later, in March of this year, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners signed a letter of support for Natrona County’s bid to host the state shooting complex. The board acknowledged that Rawlins lacked the infrastructure and amenities to support the large shooting range.
Nine Wyoming communities requested to host the shooting range. In the end, the state shooting range committee selected Cody as the future home of the facility. Senator Hicks said the terrain in the northwestern corner of the state is better for hunting practice.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104606/0729_-Shooting-Complex-3.mp3Bigfoot99 asked Senator Hicks why Natrona County wasn’t chosen for the shooting range. The senator said the proposed shooting complex will be different than a traditional range.
Senator Hicks said despite the fact that Natrona County was the most prepared to financially support the facility, the flat terrain does not match what he has in mind.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104608/0729_-Shooting-Complex-4.mp3Senator Hicks said he predicts the state shooting complex to cost approximately $1 million a year to operate. After two years, the facility should begin turning a small profit. The senator said money generated by the shooting complex will be used to maintain and expand the facility.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104610/0729_-Shooting-Complex-5.mp3When it is built, Senator Hicks said the state shooting complex will be more than a simple shooting range. The senator said the facility will also feature classrooms, event spaces, and shops.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104613/0729_-Shooting-Complex-6.mp3Users of the state shooting complex will be able to rent ATVs and side-by-sides to navigate the sprawling facility.
Senator Hicks said the state shooting complex will most likely be controlled by a locally staffed joint powers board, with the state having the final say on any decisions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104615/0729_-Shooting-Complex-7.mp3The state is contributing $10 million toward the construction of the shooting complex, with $5 million from the state’s general fund, $2.5 million from Wyoming Game and Fish, and $2.5 million from the Wyoming Office of Tourism. Senator Hicks said Cody has committed roughly $6.5 million of its own money to the project.
The state will also pay 25% of the yearly cost to run and maintain the facility. The senator said the shooting complex joint powers board will pay the remaining 75%. Any money generated by the facility over its operational costs will be used to maintain and expand the complex.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104617/0729_-Shooting-Complex-8.mp3Senator Hicks said the state shooting complex is expected to employ two to four full-time employees year-round, with 12 to 20 seasonal workers during the summer. The senator said shooting event sponsors are able to bring in their own workers and volunteers as well.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/29104620/0729_-Shooting-Complex-9.mp3Senator Hicks said he expects construction of the state shooting complex in Cody to begin by June of next year.
The post Advisory Board Selects Site For Wyoming Shooting Complex first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 26, 2024 |
Photo – Snowy Range highway – Bigfoot99 file photo
A police chase through the Snowy Range ends with an 18-year old suspect from Saratoga killing himself.
Late Wednesday evening, a Saratoga Police Officer attempted to stop a green and gold Subaru Outback for speeding in town. The driver, identified as 18-year-old Saratoga resident Ayden Lecureux, refused to stop for the police officer and attempted to flee. Lecureux reached speeds of 60 miles an hour in town as he fled south along Highway 130.
Lecureux then turned east toward the Snowy Range, with the Saratoga police officer in pursuit. The officer called for assistance from the Wyoming Highway Patrol and Albany County Sheriff’s Office. The suspect crossed the mountains into Albany County. Highway Patrol Troopers and Albany County Deputies intercepted Lecureux west of Centennial.
Albany County Sheriff’s Deputies deployed spike strips at milepost 25, successfully deflating the front tires of the Subaru. The suspect pulled over to the side of the road and stopped. As the responding officers issued commands to the suspect, police say Lecureux took his own life with a single gunshot to the head.
Wyoming Highway Patrol Troopers attempted CPR on Lecureux, but the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation remains open, pending an autopsy and the coroner’s reports.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol and the Saratoga Police Department gratefully acknowledge the assistance of the Albany and Carbon County Sheriff’s Offices, the responding EMS units from rural and Laramie Fire, and the Albany County Coroner’s Office. Responding units also wish to express their condolences to the Lecureux family.
Eighteen-year-old Lecureux’s motive for choosing to run from the police and end his own life isn’t known at this time. Bigfoot99 will continue to investigate and report back with any new information.
The post Police Chase Through Snowy Range Ends In Tragic Death first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 26, 2024 |
Photo – Marty Laroy Ervine mugshot – Courtesy Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office
Charges have been filed in last year’s fentanyl overdose death of a Hanna resident.
Thirty-five-year-old Marty Laroy Ervine, of Kitsap County, Washington is facing two counts of delivery of a controlled substance, specifically fentanyl, and one count of manslaughter. The charges stem from the February 2023 overdose death of Hanna resident, Christopher Lansing. If convicted, Ervine could face up to 60 years in a Wyoming prison.
Bigfoot99 obtained the official affidavit of Carbon County Sheriff’s Deputy and Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Special Agent Darren Willis. In his written statement, Deputy Willis said he, and other DCI agents, were called to a home on Beryl Court in Hanna on the evening of February 13th, 2023. Willis states that then Hanna Marshal Ted Kranenberg called the sheriff’s department to report a suspected fentanyl overdose of 30-year-old Christopher Lansing.
When first responders arrived on the scene, Lansing was declared dead. Drug paraphernalia and a bag of white powder were found near Lansing’s body.
A cell phone and an envelope addressed to Lansing containing a Washington State driver’s license in his name were also found at the scene. The cell phone allegedly contained text messages indicating that the substance Lansing used before his death was sent through the mail.
Deputy Willis writes that Lansing’s body did not show any signs of physical trauma.
A search of Lansing’s home did not turn up any more fentanyl. However, Willis states that two more envelopes sent from Bremerton, Washington were discovered.
Officers interviewed Lansing’s two roommates, only listed as R.J. and A.J. in court documents. A.J. allegedly told the police that Lansing had drugs sent to him through the mail, but he lost them while attending a junior high baseball game in Saratoga. R.J. added that Lansing may have lost the drugs in the restroom of a local restaurant.
Later that night, agents from Wyoming DCI began extracting data from the cell phone found near Lansing’s body.
Deputy Willis reported that Lansing sent and received multiple text messages from a person referred to as Marty. The text messages contained many mentions of powder and blues, thought to reference counterfeit fentanyl tablets. Lansing was in the process of writing a text message to Marty when he overdosed and died.
A toxicology report issued by the Carbon County Coroner’s Office indicates that Lansing’s body contained over nine times the amount of fentanyl considered fatal to a person.
Authorities traced the text messages back to Marty Laroy Ervine in Bremerton, Washington. Deputy Willis writes in his court affidavit that on March 3rd, 2023, Kitsap County sheriff’s deputies found Ervine passed out in the front seat of a truck registered to Lansing. Ervine allegedly told the deputy Lansing sold him the truck before moving to Wyoming.
A search of the vehicle yielded 75 counterfeit fentanyl tablets, over 35 grams of Methamphetamine, burglary tools, and stolen IDs and debit cards. Small baggies with alien faces on them were also found during the search.
Days before Lansing’s death in 2023, a similar baggie was found at the scene of the fentanyl overdose deaths of Saratoga residents Cassidee Wingo and Richard Heap. Saratoga Sandwich Company employee Max Schnider was charged and later acquitted of two counts of involuntary manslaughter related to Wingo and Heap’s deaths following a court case in September of last year.
Ervine was arrested by the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office and charged with theft, delivery of a controlled substance, possession of another’s identification, and possession of motor vehicle theft tools.
Ervine was extradited to Carbon County last week to face charges in the death of Hanna resident Lansing. He is currently being held in the Carbon County Jail on $100,000 cash bond. A preliminary hearing has been set for Wednesday, July 31st, at 2:30pm.
The post Washington Man Charged With Manslaughter In 2023 Hanna Death first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 26, 2024 |
Photo – Mirror Lake – Bigfoot99 file photo
The body of a man found dead at Mirror Lake on the 4th of July has turned into a homicide investigation.
The case began around 8 p.m. on Independence Day when the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the presence of a deceased individual at a campsite near Mirror Lake in the Snowy Range. Because no identification was found on the body, the investigation became a “John Doe” case.
Following an autopsy, the deceased has been identified as James Bitner, age 56 of Blackhawk, Colorado.
Law enforcement describes the manner of death simply as “homicide.”
A collaborative investigation is being conducted by the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Colorado 1st Judicial District Attorney Investigator’s Office.
Persons with information regarding the case or the victim, James Bitner, are urged to contact 307-721-2526.
The post Discovery Of Body On July 4th Turns Into Multijurisdictional Investigation first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 26, 2024 |
Photo – 2024 RNC logo – Courtesy youtube.com
A legislative candidate from Rawlins described her time at the Republican National Convention with Bigfoot 99 reporter Matt Copeland.
Rawlins Mental Health Provider Sheryl Foland is running to represent District 15 in the Wyoming legislature. Foland said she became interested in politics when she was asked to help draft legislation for new anti-stalking laws. After the legislation was passed the Wyoming Legislature, Foland said she realized every resident has the potential to affect the trajectory of the state.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26120120/0726_RNC-1.mp3Foland said she wants to keep the momentum going by becoming the House District 15 Representative. If elected, Foland said she will ensure that the issues facing small towns, such as high property taxes, aren’t overlooked by lawmakers in Cheyenne.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26120122/0726_RNC-2.mp3Foland said high property taxes are not just a burden on property owners, but renters as well. Landlords are likely to pass the costs on to their tenants.
On top of running for House District 15, Foland and her husband, Michael, were elected by the Carbon County Republican Party as area delegates for this year’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Foland was also part of the RNC Credential Committee that reinstated the two Republican delegates from Missouri. She found it exciting to be a part of a process set up by our founding fathers.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26120124/0726_RNC-3.mp3Foland said the Fiserv Forum Convention Center went quiet as former President Donald Trump, fresh from the assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, began to speak. The entire experience was nearly unbelievable, said Foland.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26120126/0726_RNC-4.mp3Security was understandably tight at the convention following the failed attempt on the former president’s life.
Foland said law enforcement agents were on board every delegate bus to and from the convention center. Secret Service members she spoke to during the convention expressed their dedication to their job.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26120128/0726_RNC-5.mp3At the convention, Foland said she met many famous Republican party members, such as South Carolina Governor Nikki Hayley and former wrestler Hulk Hogan. However, Foland said her favorite part of the convention was Trump’s emotional speech.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26120131/0726_RNC-6.mp3Foland said her time at the Republican National Convention demonstrated just how important Wyoming is on the national stage.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26120133/0726_RNC-7.mp3Foland was unable to join the other House District 15 candidates, Terry Weickum and Pam Thayer, at the July 11th candidate forum in the Carbon County Higher Education Center. She was attending the Republican National Convention at the time.
District 15 residents will have the chance to vote for their House Representative during the August 20th primary elections.
The post Rawlins Candidate Talks About Trip To 2024 RNC first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 26, 2024 |
Photo – Silhouette of a cowboy – Courtesy western-cowboy.com
In a rare show of unity, the United States Senate has declared that this Sunday, July 27, 2024, is the National Day of the American Cowboy.
The bipartisan resolution, which the Senate passed unanimously, was introduced by U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., along with their colleagues in the Senate.
The legislation reads in part, “Whereas pioneering men and women, recognized as ‘‘cow boys’’, helped to establish the American West; Whereas the cowboy embodies honesty, integrity, courage, compassion, respect, a strong work ethic, and patriotism; Whereas the cowboy spirit exemplifies strength of character, sound family values, and good common sense; Whereas the cowboy archetype transcends ethnicity, gender, geographic boundaries, and political affiliations; Whereas the cowboy, who lives off the land and works to protect and enhance the environment, is an excellent steward of the land and its creatures.”
The two-page piece of legislation continues, “Whereas the cowboy is a central figure in literature, film, and music and occupies a central place in the public imagination; Whereas the cowboy is an American icon; and Whereas the ongoing contributions made by cowboys and cowgirls to their communities should be recognized and encouraged…..be it resolved that the Senate designates July 27, 2024 as “National Day of the American Cowboy.”
Started in 2005 by the late U.S. Senator Craig Thomas of Wyoming, the National Day of the American Cowboy traditionally coincides each year with Cheyenne Frontier Days. The resolution honors the culture, traditions and values of the American Cowboy way of life that are still alive today.
The post US Senate Declares July 27th As National Day Of The American Cowboy first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 25, 2024 |
Photo –
State realty lobbyists are hosting a town hall meeting at the Platte Valley Community Center on Monday to discuss a proposed constitutional amendment.
Following the COVID pandemic, Wyoming experienced a population boom. Out-of-state buyers have been buying homes for previously unthinkable amounts of money. The large influx of new residents has driven up property taxes for everyone in the Cowboy State.
In November, Wyoming residents will vote on the Wyoming Property Tax on Residential Property and Owner-Occupied Primary Residences Amendment. Government Affairs Director for Wyoming Realtors Laurie Urbigkit said the existing state constitution breaks down property taxes into three separate categories depending on how the property is used.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074732/0725_Property-Tax-Mtg-1.mp3Urbigkit said the state constitution requires every property in each class to be taxed the same. If passed, the constitutional amendment will create a new tax class just for residential properties. Urbigkit said lawmakers can then offer tax relief to residential property owners.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074734/0725_Property-Tax-Mtg-2.mp3The Wyoming Property Tax on Residential Property and Owner-Occupied Primary Residences Amendment will be on November’s general election ballot. In Wyoming, a constitutional amendment must be passed by 50% plus one of all voters. Urbigkit said due to the high bar of amending the state constitution, she is holding town hall meetings to educate voters about the importance of passing the measure.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074736/0725_Property-Tax-Mtg-3.mp3At 6:00pm on Monday, July 29th, Urbigkit will be at the Platte Valley Community Center to answer questions about the proposed constitutional amendment. Having done a few town hall meetings already, Urbigkit said she is commonly asked if lowering property taxes for residents will hurt the local community.
Property taxes are used by counties and municipalities to support schools and special districts, such as Fire Protection. Urbigkit said the constitutional amendment won’t lower property taxes. Instead, the change allow state legislators to offer tax relief to specific property owners.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074739/0725_Property-Tax-Mtg-4.mp3Are there potential downsides to the constitutional amendment? Urbigkit said non-residential property owners, such as the minerals industry, may believe their taxes will go up to account for decreased property tax revenue. However, Urbigkit said it is highly unlikely the Wyoming legislature will support a tax increase. If revenue decreases, state lawmakers will find other methods to supplement the budget, said Urbigkit.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074741/0725_Property-Tax-Mtg-5.mp3State legislators are anticipating the constitutional amendment to pass. If so, Urbigkit said a trigger bill limiting yearly residential property tax increases will become law.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074743/0725_Property-Tax-Mtg-6.mp3The public informational meeting about the proposed constitutional amendment will be held this Monday, July 29th, at 6:00pm in the Platte Valley Community Center. The event is free to attend.
The post first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 25, 2024 |
Photo – Big Boy #4014 – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Medicine Bow Museum is prepped and ready for the arrival of the largest operational steam train in the world.
At 11:00am Friday morning, the Union Pacific Big Boy will arrive in Medicine Bow for the next-to-final stop of its Westward Bound Tour. The big steam engine is expected to draw hundreds of people to the small town in northern Carbon County, once an important stop on railroad.
Medicine Bow Museum Director Dawndee Yocom said despite the anticipated crowds, the museum board opted not to host a large event. Yocom said she and former museum director Sharon Biamon are simply making sure they are fully stocked with Medicine Bow-related merchandise.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074717/0725_Big-Boy-1.mp3Yocom said she has one vendor scheduled to attend tomorrow’s Big Boy stop: Jennifer Clark from the Rock River goat rescue, J & J Second Chance Small Holdings. The museum director said drinks will also be available.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074719/0725_Big-Boy-2.mp3Yocom said a local person will also be set up to sell her home-made jewelry during the event.
The Big Boy made an unexpected stop in Medicine Bow during the outgoing leg of its Westward Bound Tour. Yocom said she was in disbelief when a museum volunteer told her hundreds of people had visited that day.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074721/0725_Big-Boy-3.mp3Anticipating an even larger crowd for tomorrow’s scheduled stop, Yocom said she needs additional volunteers to help at the museum. She said the facility can’t support the number of people expected to attend the event.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074723/0725_Big-Boy-4.mp3Built in the early 1940’s, Big Boy, known by the designation 4014, is a 4-8-8-4 type locomotive. The numbers indicate the wheel configuration of the engine, with the Big Boy having four leading wheels, two sets of eight drive wheels, and four trailing wheels.
Between 1941 and 1944, 25 Big Boy locomotives were built to haul freight up the steep hills in and around Wyoming.
The large locomotives operated from 1944 until 1962, when the entire line was retired. Most of the engines were scrapped, with only eight examples surviving today.
All but one of the remaining Big Boy locomotives are display pieces, sitting in parks and museums across the country. Between 2014 and 2019, number 4014 underwent an extensive restoration project courtesy of Union Pacific’s steam train program. Now, 4014 is the largest operational steam locomotive in the world.
In 2019, after the restoration was complete, Union Pacific began taking the Big Boy on cross-country tours. The event is a big deal in the rail-fan community, with hundreds of people following the steam locomotive during its travels.
Tomorrow is the final leg of the Big Boy’s Westward Bound Tour. The excursion took 4014 through several states, including Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, California, and Idaho.
Following an overnight stop in Rawlins, 4014 will arrive in Medicine Bow at 11:00am tomorrow. Big Boy then will head back to the Capital City for an appearance during the final Friday night of Cheyenne Frontier Days. The steam engine will undergo maintenance before making its way south for the Heartland of America Tour in late August.
The post Medicine Bow Museum Prepares For Very Important Visitor first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 25, 2024 |
Photo – Jackson Hole, WY – Bigfoot99 file photo
Presidential politics are coming to Wyoming.
Donald Trump will be in Jackson on Saturday, August 10 to speak at a private fundraising event.
Jackson is home-away-from-home for the Cheney’s—Dick, the former Vice President, and his daughter, Liz. The last time Trump was in Wyoming was in May of 2022. He appeared in Casper, as a show of support for Harriet Hageman, who was running against Liz Cheney for Wyoming’s lone seat in the U.S. Congress.
The crowd, that Saturday, was large and enthusiastically wild for Trump. Hageman went onto steamroll Cheney in the primary election.
Hageman is scheduled to appear at the luncheon in Jackson next month. The location of the event has not been published. Entry to the fundraiser will cost $5,000 per person.
Teton County is known for fundraisers as one of the richest counties in the nation. The per-capita income sits at more than $250,000 per household.
The Economic Policy Institute reports that the top 1% of households in Teton County have an average annual income of approximately $28 million, with some individuals earning as much as $16 million per year. Much of the extreme wealth is derived from investment income.
The Trump fundraiser aims to tap into Teton County’s wealth. A photo with Trump is expected to cost $35,000 or a pledge of $70,000. Make sure you smile when the picture is taken.
Co-Hosting packages, which include a table, lunch and a photo with Trump, will cost $150,000.
Jackson Hole is home to many wealthy donors who use their money to influence their political causes.
The post Trump To Speak At Private Event In Jackson first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 25, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins Officials present award to local Lion’s Club – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The City of Rawlins recognized the local Lions Club chapter for its volunteer service.
Every month, the Rawlins Volunteer Committee celebrates a person or organization who work to make the city a better place for all residents. Parks and Recreation Director Nikki Howell presented the July Community Builder Award to the Rawlins Lions Club.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074725/0725_Community-Builder-1.mp3The Lions Club’s mission statement is to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding.
Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller said the Lions Club contributes to the city in three ways: sight, community spaces, and youth. Miller said the 103-year-old organization collects donated eyeglasses and pays for cataract surgery for residents. The Lions Club also supports a summer camp for blind youth.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074728/0725_Community-Builder-2.mp3Miller said the Rawlins Lions Club helps maintain the city’s public parks. The volunteer organization also fundraises for community and national causes. Miller also said the Lions Club provides the city’s students with scholarships to continue their education.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/26074730/0725_Community-Builder-3.mp3Miller said the Lions Club uses community events to raise money, such as a pancake breakfast during the Carbon County Fair.
Community Builder Award recipients receive a recognition plaque and $100 to donate to a nonprofit organization of their choice. Rawlins Lion Club President Vic Wilkerson chose to give the award money to the Rawlins Highschool Booster Club.
The post Local Lion’s Chapter Receives Community Award For July first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 24, 2024 |
Photo – Union Pacific Railroad’s Big Boy steam engine #4014 – Bigfoot99 file photo
Union Pacific Railroad’s “Big Boy” is coming back through Carbon County this week as the historic locomotive makes the return trip to Cheyenne after a swing through California this month.
The historic steam engine’s trip out west began in early July. On the return trip, Big Boy 4014 will make the run from Rock Springs to Rawlins Thursday morning. A stop at Point of Rocks is planned tomorrow at the Black Buttes Road Crossing from 9:45 to 10:15 a.m.
An overnight stop is planned for Rawlins Thursday night. You may catch a glimpse of 4014 in Rawlins, but UP advises that overnight stops are closed to the public for safety and security reasons. The railroad notes that non-employees who access a location where the railroad is stopped overnight, without permission, will be treated as trespassers.
On Friday, Big Boy will begin the final leg of its journey with a stop in Medicine Bow off Highway 30 at Medicine Bow-McFadden Road.
Famed American writer Owen Wister put Medicine Bow on the map of the West with his 19th century Western, The Virginian.
The story begins with the train stopping at Medicine Bow. Passengers, both men and women, on board, were drawn to the windows to watch a western scene unfold. Horses were “plunging, huddling and dodging. They were cow ponies in a corral, and one of them would not be caught, no matter who threw the rope.” Medicine Bow was the forlorn narrator’s destination. His luggage had been lost some two thousand miles earlier on the trip out west. Despite his luck, the unnamed narrator was about to begin an unforgettable journey into the western landscape.
Big Boy is representative of Wyoming’s past. It is scheduled to arrive at 11:00 a.m. tomorrow and depart at 11:30. Bring your camera and remember to stand back at least 25 feet for safety.
The big steam engine then will depart for a final stop on the tour in Wyoming’s Capital City at 4 p.m. for the final Friday of Cheyenne Frontier Days, where special festivities are planned.
Big Boy No 4014 will have some time off for maintenance before departing on one more trip planned for this summer.
The “Heartland of America Tour” takes off from Cheyenne on August 29 for stops in the Midwest, including Colorado, Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. The eight week tour concludes in late October.
In all, Big Boy No. 4014 will visit 14 states this year, including five states during this summer’s “Westward Bound” tour from Wyoming to California.
The post Big Boy Travels Back To Cheyenne From California first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 24, 2024 |
Photo – Town of Medicine Bow sign and CCSO logo – Courtesy CCSO
The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office has agreed to patrol the town of Medicine Bow in exchange for law enforcement equipment.
In February, citing a lack of funding, the Medicine Bow town council voted to dissolve the marshal’s department. The town is now sitting on several pieces of unneeded equipment, such as patrol vehicles, weapons, and ammunition.
Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken expressed interest in purchasing three police vehicles and three rifles from Medicine Bow. The town entered into negotiations with the county for the sale of the equipment. In the end, an agreement was made to sell the vehicles and guns to the sheriff for $55,000 and a memorandum of understanding to have deputies patrol Medicine Bow for 30 hours a month for one year.
During the July 15th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meetings, Sheriff Bakken asked for authorization to sign the MOU with Medicine Bow.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190310/0724_Med-Bow-MOU-1.mp3The board voted to enter a memorandum of understanding between the town of Medicine Bow, the Sheriff’s Office, and the Carbon County Commissioners.
With the signed agreement, Sheriff Bakken said deputies have now taken over law enforcement duties for three Carbon County towns. The sheriff said everyone benefits from having deputies patrol more of the county.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25193059/MOU-02.mp3Next, Sheriff Bakken asked the board to allow him to purchase three patrol vehicles and three rifles from the defunct Medicine Bow Marshal’s department. Altogether, the equipment will cost $55,000, said the sheriff.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190312/0724_Med-Bow-MOU-3.mp3Sheriff Bakken said the purchases will be paid for using impact assistance funds from either the Gateway South or TransWest Express powerline projects.
The Board voted to approve the purchase of the law enforcement equipment from Medicine Bow.
Sheriff Bakken thanked the commissioners for supporting his efforts to have deputies provide law enforcement coverage for the county’s municipalities.
The post Commissioners Agree To Sheriff’s Deal With Town Of Medicine Bow first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 24, 2024 |
Photo – Aerial view of Dixon Airport – Courtesy Google Maps
Work continues on the Dixon Airport expansion project at the southern end of the county.
In January of 2023, an airport master plan was created for the Dixon Airport. The master plan recommended expanding the runway to accommodate larger and faster planes. The entire expansion project is estimated to cost roughly $23 million, with the Federal Aviation Administration funding 90% of the work.
Expanding the runway means moving the existing airplane hangars out of the way. During the July 15th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones said three companies responded to a request for proposal to demolish the Dixon Airport hangars and tear up the connecting asphalt roads.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190306/0724_Dixon-Airport-1.mp3Of the three companies that responded to the request for proposal, Chairwoman Jones said Savery Creek Enterprises submitted the lowest bid. The local contractor’s bid came in much lower than its competitors.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190308/0724_Dixon-Airport-2.mp3Chairwoman Jones said Ardurra, the engineering firm overseeing the Dixon Airport expansion project, reviewed the bids and recommended awarding the hangar demolition contract to Savery Creek Enterprises.
Commissioner Garrett Irene asked why Savery Creek’s bid was so much lower than the other two contractors. Chairwoman Jones said the company is local. The outfit is located in Dixon and, therefore, doesn’t have to spend a lot of money moving equipment and manpower to the job site.
The county commissioners voted to award Savery Creek Enterprises the contract to demolish the Dixon Airport hangars and connecting roads.
The post Dixon Airport Hangar Demolition Bid Awarded To Local Company first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 24, 2024 |
Photo – Text My Gov phone app – Courtesy Text My Gov website
The Medicine Bow governing body discussed, but made no decision, about signing up for a text-based town notification system. Two other towns in Wyoming already use the system.
During the July 8th Medicine Bow town council meeting, Councilwoman Crystal Mayfield said she and other members of the town staff attended a presentation from the Logan, Utah-based communications company Text My Gov. Councilwoman Mayfield said Text My Gov is a program that allows residents and the town to more easily communicate.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190314/0724_Text-MyGov-1.mp3Councilwoman Mayfield said following a $500 set up fee, the text-based communications program will cost the town $1,500 a year. For an additional $1,000 a year, Text My Gov will collect and automatically add residents’ phone numbers to the database. Mayfield said she does not support having the company mine phone numbers. If the town chooses to contract with Text My Gov, the councilwoman said residents will be given the option to voluntarily sign up for text notifications.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190316/0724_Text-MyGov-2.mp3Councilwoman Mayfield said residents won’t be required to sign up for Text My Gov notifications to contact the town.
Fire Chief Ed Standish suggested the council ask Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman about joining Alert Sense, the county’s free emergency text notification system. Town Clerk Treasurer Karen Heath asked if Alert Sense can be used to report in-town incidents, such as water main breaks. Chief Standish said no, but the system will notify the town about impending disasters.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190318/0724_Text-MyGov-3.mp3Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer said the main advantage of Text My Gov is the ability for residents to easily report issues. For example, Councilwoman Wickizer said Text My Gov will allow a resident to quickly inform Public Works Director Brian Lashley about a water main break.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190320/0724_Text-MyGov-4.mp3Councilwoman Mayfield demonstrated how Text My Gov works. After texting a preset number, the councilwoman received a message back with a series of keywords she can use to report an issue or get more information about town activities. Through the system, a Medicine Bow resident can easily report a pothole by sending the address and a picture directly to Public Works Director Lashley.
Clerk Treasurer Heath said Text My Gov can also be used to alert residents about incidents in specific locations, such as a closed road.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190323/0724_Text-MyGov-5.mp3Councilwoman Mayfield said Text My Gov limits the number of messages the town can send and receive in a given year. While the exact number of texts wasn’t known at the meeting, Councilwoman Mayfield said she believes it is somewhere around 100,000 a year.
Councilwoman Wickizer said every text the town receives and sends counts toward the limit.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190325/0724_Text-MyGov-6.mp3Councilman Lee Cook asked if a single resident could flood Text My Gov with messages. Clerk Treasurer Heath said the person responsible for managing the phone number database can choose to limit people’s access to the system.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190327/0724_Text-MyGov-7.mp3The Medicine Bow town council asked Public Works Director Lashley his opinion of Text My Gov. Lashley said the system may be useful. However, the public works director said the town may want to focus on existing problems before adding another potential distraction.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190329/0724_Text-MyGov-8.mp3Lashley said the towns of Greybull and Torrington are using Text My Gov. The public works director said he’s spoken to officials in both towns about the downside of using the text notification system. Lashley said Torrington is dealing with a low adoption rate and Greybull said the company updates the phone number database too slowly.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/25190331/0724_Text-MyGov-9.mp3Lashley said both Greybull and Torrington reported that Text My Gov was quick to respond to technical issues.
Councilwoman Mayfield said Text My Gov representatives predict that eight to ten percent of residents will refuse to ever sign up for text notifications. Because of the small number of Medicine Bow residents, the town can easily maintain and update the database of phone numbers on its own.
Text My Gov requires the town to sign a two-year contract for the text-based alert system.
The Medicine Bow town council voted to wait to decide if it will use Text My Gove until department heads explain how the system will benefit their departments.
The post Medicine Bow Officials Discuss Using New Text Notification System first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 23, 2024 |
Photo – Generic image of Transportation Master Plan – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga’s Transportation Alternatives Master Plan is nearing completion. The document will be discussed tonight at the Town Hall.
Last year, the Saratoga Planning Commission received a $200,000 Wyoming Department of Transportation grant to conduct a study of what, if any, improvements are needed to the town’s existing walking infrastructure. Denver-based OV Consulting was hired to design a plan for new and improved pedestrian access throughout the town.
OV Consulting put together a design draft containing 42 total infrastructure projects. Eleven projects were chosen as the most feasible, including constructing a walkway between the schools on Elm Avenue and adding additional crosswalks along the highway.
During the July 16th Saratoga town council meeting, Public Works Director Emery Penner said the planning commission will review the draft Saratoga Transportation Alternatives Master Plan, or STAMP. If they are happy with the study, Penner said he’ll bring it to the council for approval.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112421/0723_STAMP-1.mp3In a written statement to Bigfoot99, Penner said the Planning Commission will hold a special meeting to discuss the findings of the Transportation Alternatives Master Plan at 5:30pm tonight in the Saratoga town hall.
The post Saratoga’s Transportation Alternatives Master Plan Is Nearing Completion first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 23, 2024 |
Photo – MHCC Clinic – Bigfoot99 file photo
Memorial Hospital of Carbon County administrators emphasize the importance of keeping the financially struggling healthcare facility open.
Last month, Memorial Hospital Board of Trustee members asked the Carbon County Commissioners to consider adding the creation of a hospital district to November’s general election ballot.
If approved, the hospital district will impose a 3-mill property tax levy in Rawlins, Sinclair, Hanna, and certain unincorporated areas of the county. The tax would generate an additional $1.5 million a year.
Since that time, MHCC staff have made it clear that without the hospital district, the medical facility may be forced to close.
During the July 15th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Memorial Hospital Director of Strategic Operations Stephanie Hinkle said she has been working to educate the public about the hospital. Hinkle said her education campaign focuses on two topics: healthcare and economics.
Hinkle provided patient and staff statistics from last year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112407/0723_MHCC-1.mp3Hinkle said 88% of the 14,678 registered hospital patients in 2023 were Carbon County residents. Commissioner John Johnson asked Hinkle to break down the number of county patients by location. Hinkle said specific location data is key to recognizing how important Memorial Hospital and its clinics are to Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112410/0723_MHCC-2.mp3Hinkle spoke about the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems, or HCAHPS, scores. On the nationwide survey, Hinkle said patients scored Memorial Hospital at or above the state average.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112412/0723_MHCC-3.mp3Hinkle said she posts the monthly HCAHPS scores throughout the hospital. Staff uses the reviews to determine where improvements are needed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112414/0723_MHCC-4.mp3During their next meeting, on August 6th, the county commissioners will decide if the hospital district will be included on the November ballot. If approved, voters will also have to elect board members to run the hospital district.
Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones asked if anyone on the Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees is interested in running for the hospital district board. Board President Rod Waeckerlin said he doesn’t know if any of the existing board will run.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112416/0723_MHCC-5.mp3Waeckerlin said Memorial Hospital is doing well, clinically. Patients say they’re pleased with the care they receive. However, Waeckerlin said the hospital is suffering from a lack of finances. The board president said thanks to a new office administrator and debt collector, things are looking up for the cash-strapped healthcare facility.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112419/0723_MHCC-6.mp3Waeckerlin said he hopes that anyone elected to the hospital district will continue the work he and the other board members have begun.
The filing period for hospital district board candidates runs from August 7th through the 26th.
The Board of Carbon County Commissioners will decide whether the hospital district will be on the November ballot during their August 6th meeting. Waeckerlin has volunteered to be present during that meeting to answer questions from the public.
The post MHCC Asking For Addition To November Ballot first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 23, 2024 |
Photo – Fuel pump – Bigfoot99 file photo
Average gasoline prices in Wyoming have fallen 1 cent per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.30 per gallon Monday, according to GasBuddy.com‘s survey of 494 stations in Wyoming.
Prices in Wyoming are 4.9 cents per gallon higher than a month ago, and they stand 29.9 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.
According to GasBuddy price reports, the lowest price in the state on Sunday was $2.96, while the highest was $4.39, a difference of $1.43 per gallon.
The national average price of gasoline has fallen 1.9 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.47 per gallon Monday. The national average is up 3.5 cents per gallon from a month ago, and stands 9.9 cents per gallon lower than a year ago, according to GasBuddy data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas stations across the country.
The national average price of diesel has fallen 4 cents in the last week, and stands at $3.79 per gallon.
Trade analysts say prices are lower because demand has fallen—likely due to high prices. In June following the Memorial Day weekend, demand fell by nearly 9-billion barrels year-to-date. Americans are not driving as much because other consumer products have also risen in prices.
Americans can’t afford to drive, so they’re not going on trips. AAA spokesperson Andrew Gross describes the situation this way. “Traditionally — pre-pandemic — after Memorial Day, demand would start to pick up in the summertime. And we just don’t see it anymore.”
Inflation has forced consumers to change their habits.
Also, in May, the Biden Administration released 1-million barrels, or about 42 million gallons from the Northeast reserve with the aim of lowering prices at the pump during an election year.
The result, gas prices are lower now than they were in 2023 or 2022.
The post Average Gas Prices In Wyoming Are Lower Than Last Week’s first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 23, 2024 |
Photo – Ham radio – Courtesy Tom Hayes
A Rawlins resident is looking for like-minded people to join a ham radio club. Amateur radio, also known as ham radio, allows users to communicate across town or around the world without relying on the internet or phones.
Department of Corrections Welder Tom Hayes is trying to find members to join the Carbon County Amateur Radio Association. Hayes, who has over 20 years of amateur radio experience, said ham radio was developed decades ago to allow military personnel to communicate with loved ones back home. Hayes described how the radio signals can reach across the planet.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112350/0718_Ham-Radio-1.mp3Hayes said he has been able to communicate with people from 31 different countries, all from his home in Rawlins.
By adjusting the settings on your radio antenna, Hayes said you can broadcast locally by firing the signal straight up into the atmosphere and having it bounce back down.
As part of a Wyoming ham radio group, Hayes said he uses the short distance method to stay in touch with people across the state. Amateur radio is a valuable tool for keeping in contact during an emergency.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112353/0718_Ham-Radio-2.mp3Hayes said ham radio has a stigma of only being used by nerds with huge radio sets in their bedrooms. With modern technology, Hayes said radios can now fit in your pocket. Through a series of repeaters, the amateur radio operator said he is able to get a signal pretty much anywhere in Carbon County on his handheld set.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112355/0718_Ham-Radio-3.mp3To legally operate a ham radio, you need a $35 license from the Federal Communications Commission. Hayes said the FCC issues three types of amateur radio licenses: technician, general, and extra. Each level provides users with access to more radio frequencies. Hayes said an extra license makes it easier to communicate around the world.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112358/0718_Ham-Radio-4.mp3Hayes said having a higher FCC license also makes it easier to train the next generation of ham radio operators. A ham radio mentor is called an Elmer, thought to have originated from a fictional character named Elmer the Safety Elephant that appeared in educational materials in the 1960s.
Hayes is part of the Carbon County Amateur Radio Association. He and the other members are offering to share their experience with people looking to get into ham radio. At 40-years-old, Hayes is one of the youngest members of the club. The Carbon County Amateur Radio Association needs an influx of new members, said Hayes.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112400/0718_Ham-Radio-5.mp3Hayes is asking all licensed ham radio operators in Carbon County to join the local club. However, everyone is welcome. Hayes said he is fighting to dispel the hobby’s negative public perception.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/23112404/0718_Ham-Radio-6.mp3If you are a licensed ham radio operator or wish to learn more about the hobby, visit the Carbon County Amateur Radio Association Facebook page or call Hayes at 349-0214.
The post HAM Operators In Want Of New Members To Amateur Association first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 22, 2024 |
Photo – Chicken with eggs – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga residents may now keep egg-laying chickens in their yards without running afoul of the law.
The Saratoga town council voted to formally adopt Ordinance 24-870, a resolution amending the town’s livestock codes on the third and final reading.
Back in March, former Saratoga councilman Jon Nelson asked the sitting council to consider letting residents keep hens in town. The current livestock ordinance, which groups chickens in with other barnyard animals such as horses and goats, needed to be changed.
The Saratoga Planning Commission brought the chicken ordinance up for discussion and received support from the community. Changing an existing ordinance requires the amendment to be read three times during three separate public hearings. Tuesday was the third and final time the ordinance needed to be read before it could be passed.
At Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Clerk Jennifer Anderson read the resolution to amend the livestock ordinance.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132919/0722_Chicken-1.mp3The resolution defines “poultry” as small fowl of under 12 pounds that are kept primarily for their eggs, including chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and quails. Roosters will remain illegal to possess within town limits.
To keep chickens in their yards, residents must have a suitable coop to house the birds. Clerk Anderson read the section of the ordinance that defines what the town considers to be a coop.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132921/0722_Chicken-2.mp3Coops must also have a fully fenced in run to allow the birds outside. The amended town ordinance states that the run must be large enough to permit a minimum of 10 square feet per chicken or 16 square feet per duck. Different breeds of egg laying fowl may share a single run.
Town Treasurer Corina Daley continued reading where Clerk Anderson left off. Daley said residents may keep between two and 12 fowl on their property. The ordinance forbids selling or eating the birds.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132923/0722_Chicken-3.mp3For clarification, Treasurer Daley misread the ordinance. Guinea pigs are not considered poultry. However, guinea fowl are.
The ordinance allows poultry outside of the fenced in run during the day only if their wings are clipped and they are confined to the back yard of a lot that is surrounded with at least a six-foot tall fence. The birds must be locked inside the coop from sunset to sunrise.
Daley continued to read the amended ordinance. The treasurer said residents who wish to keep chickens must procure a building permit from the town hall listing the dimensions of their proposed coop and the number of fowl they intend to keep.
Chicken feed must be properly stored to prevent rodents and the coop must be kept clean, said Daley.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132925/0722_Chicken-4.mp3The amended ordinance gives in-town residents with existing poultry coops six months to comply with the new regulations.
The Saratoga town council unanimously voted to approve the amended livestock ordinance upon the third reading.
The post Saratoga Passes Livestock Ordinance Change first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 22, 2024 |
Photo – Rear view of Cathy Gardens Apartments in Rawlins – Courtesy Google Maps
The Rawlins city council waived $46,000 in permit fees for a low-income apartment rehabilitation project.
Cathy Gardens Apartments is a 40-unit housing complex that was built in the early 1920’s. The facility served as the original home of Carbon County Memorial Hospital until 1977, when it was converted into the Cathy Gardens apartment complex. The building, which is home to low-income senior residents, is in need of major renovations.
During last week’s Rawlins city council meeting, Community Development Director Lou Lascano said Michigan-based Ide Development LLC is asking the city to waive more than $46,000 in permit fees. Lascano said company owner Benjamin Ide estimates the Cathy Gardens rehabilitation project will cost nearly $5 million to complete.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132855/0722_Cathy-Gardens-1.mp3Lascano said as tenants leave, the remaining residents will be moved into the vacant units and their apartments will be renovated. The residents will then be moved back into their freshly remodeled units.
Ide Development LLC owner Benjamin Ide said he is applying for a competitive tax credit grant through the Wyoming Community Development Authority. Ide said the permit waiver will count as a financial contribution from the city, increasing his chances of receiving grant money.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132858/0722_Cathy-Gardens-2.mp3Councilwoman Jacquelin Wells asked if the facility’s malfunctioning elevator will be replaced. Ide said yes, the entire complex will undergo extensive remodeling and repairs.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132900/0722_Cathy-Gardens-3.mp3Councilwoman Tonya Lewman pointed out that the city typically only waives a percentage of a permit fee because landfill workers must still deal with the construction debris. Mayor Terry Weickum said by dismissing the entire $46,500 fee, the city is providing Ide with a greater chance of being selected for the Wyoming Community Development Authority grant. The facility desperately needs major renovations, said Mayor Weickum.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132903/0722_Cathy-Gardens-4.mp3Councilwoman Wells asked how the city can be sure that Cathy Gardens will remain low-income housing after the renovations are complete. Ide said Section 8 funding is tied to the facility itself, not individual tenants. Government regulations require Cathy Gardens to qualify as Section 8 housing for at least the next three decades.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132906/0722_Cathy-Gardens-5.mp3Councilman Darril Garner asked how the project will financially benefit the city. Ide said he can’t guarantee that all the supplies will be purchased in Rawlins. The logistics of the job will be left up to a general contractor. However, Ide said due to the remote location of the city and the type of work they’re doing, local subcontractors will be needed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132909/0722_Cathy-Gardens-6.mp3Vice Mayor Steve Sanger asked what will happen to the money if the city waives the fee and the WCDA grant isn’t approved. Ide said the money will be lost. However, the city should consider the fee waiver as a way to improve the community, said Ide.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132912/0722_Cathy-Gardens-7.mp3Vice Mayor Sanger agreed, saying when the project is complete, Cathy Gardens will generate additional property tax outweighing the $46,000 fee application.
An attendee asked the council if they could demand the fees be paid at a later date if the Cathy Gardens rehab project is successful. Mayor Weickum said he doesn’t believe the Wyoming Community Development Authority will give a loan the same consideration as a gift.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132914/0722_Cathy-Gardens-8.mp3Councilman Garner said he would like to postpone the vote to waive the $46,500 permit application fee. The councilman said city attorney Pinita Maberry-Nave should review the grant application to determine if the city can demand the fees be paid back.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132916/0722_Cathy-Gardens-9.mp3Mayor Weickum said the money the city is losing will be repaid many times over in the future.
Councilman Garner motioned to postpone the vote. His motion died for a lack of a second. The city council then voted to waive Ide Development LLC’s permitting fees for the Cathy Gardens rehabilitation project. The motion passed with Garner as the sole dissenting vote.
Ide said he will submit the Wyoming Community Development Authority grant application at the end of September.
The post Rawlins Officials Waive Building Permit Fees For Cathy Gardens Remodel Project first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 22, 2024 |
Photo – School supplies – Bigfoot99 file photo
Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is teaming up with businesses across our area to collect donated school supplies.
For the third straight year, Memorial Hospital is collecting donations for Carbon County elementary school students. Director of Strategic Operations Stephanie Hinkle described some of the items the students may need.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132927/0722_School-Supplies-1.mp3Memorial Hospital has teamed up with Bank of Commerce, RNB State Bank, Fremont Therapy Group, Carbon County Higher Education Center, and Valley Pharmacy in Saratoga for this year’s drive. Hinkle said donation boxes can be found at all the business locations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132929/0722_School-Supplies-2.mp3The school supply drive will run until Friday, August 9th. Hinkle said participating businesses will box the items up and send them to elementary schools across Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132932/0722_School-Supplies-3.mp3The donated school supplies will be given to every elementary school in Carbon County, except for the Baggs elementary school. Hinkle said Baggs residents already donate supplies to the town’s school.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132934/0722_School-Supplies-4.mp3Like free school physicals, Hinkle said the school supply drive is a way for Memorial Hospital to be involved with the community. The strategic director said that organizing the school supply drive is an easy way to benefit Carbon County residents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/22132936/0722_School-Supplies-5.mp3The 2024 School Supply Drive began last week and will run until August 9th. Residents may drop off their donated items at all Memorial Hospital of Carbon County clinics, RNB State Bank, and Commerce Bank locations, as well as Freemont Therapy and the Carbon County Higher Education Center in Rawlins, and Valley Pharmacy in Saratoga.
For a complete list of drop off locations and suggested donations, visit the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County Facebook page or imhcc.com.
The post MHCC Organizes School Supply Drive For County Elementary Students first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 22, 2024 |
Photo – President Joe Biden – Courtesy the White House web page
Joe Biden announced he’s dropping out of the 2024 Presidential race in the face of overwhelming pressure from other high-level Democrats.
In a statement Sunday, Biden said it was in the “best interest” of the Democrat Party for him to leave the race and “focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”
The President cancelled appearances last week and returned to the White House while suffering from the Coronavirus. The President has received multiple COVID shots since 2020.
In a letter Sunday stating his intentions not to run, the President wrote, “While it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.
Biden went onto endorse Vice President Kamala Harris.
Former President Donald Trump said in a statement, “Crooked Joe Biden was not fit to run for President, and is certainly not fit to serve—And never was!”
Governor Mark Gordon released a statement Sunday evening about Biden’s decision. Joe Biden’s decision to step aside is a good one. However, we need to remember the Democrats are still in control and this administration has months to run. I am more certain than ever we must change executive leadership in DC.
I am confident Americans will make the right choice in November to vote out the failed policies of the Biden Administration by voting for President Trump and JD Vance. In the meantime, the people of Wyoming can remain confident I will spare no effort or expense in defending our interests.”
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso said the Democrats have “admitted their failures of the last four years.” Congresswoman Harriet Hageman said Biden has “no business running a popsicle stand.”
The post Joe Biden Announces Withdrawal And Endorses Vice President first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 19, 2024 |
Photo – Donald Trump – Courtesy Politico web page
Having defied an assassin’s bullet five day earlier in Butler, Pennsylvania, former President Donald Trump stood in Milwaukee Thursday night and accepted the Republican Party’s nomination for President.
Trump spoke to the nation for the first time Thursday night since the attempt on his life, telling the party faithful that he came to deliver a message “of confidence, strength and hope.” He then described in chilling detail what happened during his speech in Butler on Saturday.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/19100051/0719_Trump-1.mp3During his appearances this week at the convention, Trump has worn a large white bandage over his right ear. Last night, he spoke for the first time to a national television audience about the failed attempt on his life. The former president said even though bullets were flying all around, he felt protected by the Secret Service agents who had rushed the stage and covered him until the shooting ended with the sniper dead.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/19100054/0719_Trump-2.mp3On the stage with Trump was the helmet and fire-fighting uniform of Corey Compatore who was killed at the rally as he used his body to shield his wife and daughters.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/19100056/0719_Trump-3.mp3Trump went on to talk about the key issues Americans are facing in this year’s election, including illegal immigration, inflation and ending the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Democrat party strategists described the speech as awful. Meanwhile, President Biden is quarantined in the White House, presumably with COVID, even though he has made dogmatic speeches about Americans needing to be vaccinated and boosted to avoid contracting the virus. The president may be staying out of sight for political reasons.
Before Trump’s speech last night, Newsmax reported in a scoop that Bidden would declare this weekend that he’s stepping down from the race and will not endorse Vice President Kamala Harris so party officials can ride herd on the selection process.
The post Trump Accepts Party’s Nomination For President first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 18, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga officials provide their feedback on the newly completed Carbon County Visitors’ Council tourism master plan.
During Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Visitors’ Council Board Member Ellie Dana brought a condensed version of the 2023 Tourism Master Plan for the governing body to review. Dana explained that the master plan focuses on four aspects of tourism: the visitors’ experience, outdoor recreation, hospitality, and collaborations.
Dana said the key aspect of the visitors’ experience is the county’s appearance. The tourism board member said recent streets projects have already made Saratoga look better.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110745/0718_Tourism-1.mp3Dana said the visitors’ council would like to install marker signs around the county to guide tourists to local points of interest. Both Mayor Chuck Davis and Councilman Jerry Fluty expressed support for the plan. Mayor Davis asked to have signs posted outside of town. Councilman Fluty said he would like to install markers showing Saratoga’s attractions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110747/0718_Tourism-2.mp3Dana moved on to hospitality. She said the tourism master plan lists a need for more and better qualified hospitality workers. Dana said like the local guest ranches, Saratoga’s hospitality businesses could work together to attract seasonal employees.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110751/0718_Tourism-3.mp3Dana asked the town council for permission to suggest combining hospitality service hiring to the tourism board. Mayor Davis said he likes the idea but asked Dana to include the entire county.
Councilman Fluty said the businesses should be consulted before putting Dana’s combined hiring plan into action. Dana said she would like to get approval from the tourism board before bringing the idea to the business owners.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110753/0718_Tourism-4.mp3Dana said the visitors’ council board would like Saratoga to support the construction of new lodging and camping facilities. Mayor Davis said Saratoga Lake is the only place to legally camp around town.
Councilman Fluty said improved water and sewer access will entice more people to camp by the lake. However, the town will need to find money for the project before work can begin.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110755/0718_Tourism-5.mp3Dana said she will ask the visitors’ council board to find a funding source to expand water and sewer coverage to the Saratoga Lake campground.
Mayor Davis said the planning commission could look into creating a place in town for single night campers, such as bicyclers.
Dana said the visitors’ council board would like the town to address short-term rentals. However, like the council, Dana said she does not support limiting or regulating rental properties.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110757/0718_Tourism-6.mp3Dana said she will inform the tourism board that the council has no intention to address short-term rentals as this time.
Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked if the visitors’ council had a list of all the short-term rentals in Carbon County. Dana said they do not, nor does she know how to obtain such a list unless the property is represented by a listing company, such as Airbnb or Vrbo.
Councilwoman Beck said she would like an accurate count of the number of short-term rentals in Saratoga. The councilwoman said a permitting process could help the town keep track of the short-term rentals.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110800/0718_Tourism-7.mp3Councilwoman Beck said using the permitting process, the Carbon County Chamber of Commerce could advertise the short-term rentals on its website, alongside other businesses.
Councilman Fluty asked why the town would want to implement another regulation limiting what residents can do with their private property. Councilwoman Beck said a permit will simply allow Saratoga to know what businesses are operating in town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110802/0718_Tourism-8.mp3Mayor Davis said the planning commission will hold a public workshop about short-term rentals during their next meeting on August 13th. The mayor said the planning board will take the public’s input and recommend how or if the town should regulate short-term rentals.
Dana offered to provide monthly updates on the 2023 Tourism Master Plan to the town council. Until then, she will bring the council’s comments and concerns up during the next visitors’ council board meeting.
The post Saratoga Officials Discuss Newly Completed Master Tourism Plan first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 18, 2024 |
Photo – The BLM land west of Rawlins for proposed bike trail – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The Bureau of Land Management requires state approval before constructing a mountain bike park outside of Rawlins.
In March of last year, the city’s Parks and Recreation Director, at the time, Jason Sehon, informed the city council about a proposed mountain bike park west of the city. At the time, Sehon said he was in talks with BLM about the issue. The federal lands agency owns the land. The former parks and rec director said everyone he had talked to was enthusiastic about the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110732/0718_Bike-Park-1.mp3A year and a half later, no work has been done, and the mountain bike park is still just an idea.
During Tuesday’s Rawlins city council meeting, current Parks and Rec Director Nikki Howell informed the governing body that the project is still alive. Howell said BLM is waiting on approval from the state to construct the bike trail.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110735/0718_Bike-Park-2.mp3Once the project is approved by the state, Howell said the International Mountain Bike Association will begin designing the park. Howell said the organization will seek local feedback and support for the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110737/0718_Bike-Park-3.mp3Designing a mountain bike park on public land will also require a National Environmental Policy Act review. Mayor Terry Weickum explained how the NEPA review process works.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110740/0718_Bike-Park-4.mp3Howell said the NEPA review will also ensure the cultural importance of the site is protected.
Howell was not able to provide a timeline for the mountain bike park construction. The parks and rec director said the entire process is waiting for state approval before work can begin.
The post Bike Park West Of Rawlins Waits On State Approval first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 18, 2024 |
Photo – WEA logo – Courtesy WEA web page
The Wyoming Energy Authority, which lobbies for the state’s diverse energy industry, has selected a law firm to support the state’s litigation efforts on behalf of the beleaguered coal industry.
The WEA’s seven-member board of directors is selected by the governor.
Wyoming is home to one-third of the nation’s coal reserves. In 2018 40% of the coal mined in the U.S. came from Wyoming. The state’s coal industry employed more than 5,500 jobs and produced $679.6 million to state & local governments.
The state has been under attack from the anti-coal, anti-carbon tilt of the Joe Biden White House for the last three and one-half years.
The WEA chose the law firm of Brownstein, Hyatt, Farber Shreck, which has offices in Denver and Washington, D.C., to represent Wyoming’s interests against the latest round of rules issued by the Environmental Protection Agency.
The law firm has previously helped Wyoming in winning legislation to create permanent carbon sequestration projects in the state.
Governor Gordon said in a statement yesterday, “Wyoming is marshaling all available resources to fight the Biden Administration’s ongoing attack on our coal industry, our workers, and ultimately our communities.”
The money to pay for the outside legal services will come from funds set aside by the Wyoming Legislature.
The Governor allocated $300,000 in Coal Litigation Funds to the WEA on May 20th of this year. The WEA opened a request for proposals for coal litigation support on June 7th.
Brownstein will assist Wyoming on several fronts, including combat laws and other federal regulations that block the state’s ability to export coal or cause the early-retirement of coal-fired power plants in the state.
WEA Executive Director Bob Creager said in a statement, “Wyoming is committed to defending Wyoming’s coal industry and the reliable, affordable power that it supplies to millions of Americans. We are eager to be able to provide assistance to the State of Wyoming in its fight.”
Helping the law firm in the legal battle will be former U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt.
The post Wyoming Energy Authority Selects Law Firm In Fight Against Biden Administration first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 18, 2024 |
Photo – Kimberly Cheatle – Secret Service Director – Courtesy Fox News web page
Wyoming Senior Senator John Barrasso made it clear Thursday that the Biden Administration’s briefing yesterday on the attempt to kill the president’s opponent in this year’s election lacked substance and seriousness.
Two briefings were held Wednesday for House and Senate members. The briefers included FBI Director Christopher Ray and Secret Service Chief Kimberly Cheatle. The meetings went longer than the planned 30 minutes, but only a few legislators were allowed to ask questions, mostly Democrats.
After the meeting, Barrasso said the “head of the secret service needs to go,” referring to former Coca Cola executive, Cheatle.
Senator Mike Lee said in a post on X: “Never — in my 13 years in the Senate — have I seen a briefing end after answering only four questions. Biden officials took four questions. Three of the questions were from Democrats, Senator Lee said.
Representative Randy Weber of Texas described the briefing as “awful” with out enough time for questions from lawmakers who will investigate the assassination attempt.
Politico reports that Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle acknowledged during the interview that there were “gaffes” and a “failure” on the day of the rally.
Senator Barrasso was frank about Cheatle’s failures and performance yesterday. “No one has taken responsibility. No one has been held responsible. Someone has died. The President was almost killed.” Senator Barrasso was clear, after the briefing, that Cheatle needs to be terminated as the head of the Secret Service.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/18110742/0718_Sen-Barrasso.mp3The Department of Homeland Security is not cooperating with the request to fire Cheatle. DHS, headed by Alejandro Mayorkas, notified Oversight Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) on Wednesday that Cheatle will not appear before his committee on Monday, after a subpoena was issued for her appearance earlier Wednesday.
Meanwhile, former President Trump will deliver his first speech tonight following the failed assassination attempt.
The post Senator Barrasso Calls For Termination Of Secret Service Director first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 17, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga Days crowd – Courtesy Los Cheesies Instagram
County and town officials used Saratoga Days to prepare for an emergency.
Two weeks ago, the town of Saratoga held its annual summertime celebration called Saratoga Days. The free festivities feature games and live music, drawing large crowds to the small town over the 4th of July.
This year, the Saratoga Police Department teamed up with the Carbon County Office of Emergency Management and South Central Wyoming EMS. The agencies used the concert to plan for a worst-case scenario.
Emergency Manager Lenny Layman said the three agencies used Saratoga Days as a planning exercise to develop an incident action plan, or IAP.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120843/0717_Saratoga-Days-Prep-1.mp3Layman said the incident action plan allowed everyone involved with Saratoga Days to know exactly what to do in case of an emergency. The county emergency manager said the IAP can be used as a jumping off point to improve safety during next year’s event.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120845/0717_Saratoga-Days-Prep-2.mp3Layman said after the weekend celebration ended, the agencies met to complete an after-action report and to discuss suggested improvements needed to make the event safer. The emergency manager said information gathered from the exercise will allow everyone to be better prepared for next year’s festivities.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120848/0717_Saratoga-Days-Prep-3.mp3Layman said no other municipality has taken the opportunity to use a large gathering as an emergency preparedness exercise.
Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris said developing an incident action plan takes time and effort. However, Chief Morris said experience gained through the exercise made the effort worthwhile.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120852/0717_Saratoga-Days-Prep-4.mp3The North Platte Valley Medical Center was also involved with the Saratoga Days emergency exercise. SCWEMS Director Stayton Mosbey said the clinic was well prepared to accept additional patients in the event of a disaster.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120855/0717_Saratoga-Days-Prep-5.mp3Director Mosbey said the Saratoga clinic was also given communication equipment to allow staff to monitor the event in real time.
Police Chief Morris said specific radio tones were used to alert emergency responders to a variety of situations at the scene.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120902/0717_Saratoga-Days-Prep-6.mp3Emergency Manager Layman said the Saratoga Days exercise gave him the opportunity to showcase some of the assets and equipment available through his department. Layman mentioned Orion Mobile, a damage assessment software that allows him to catalog an incident using pictures and Federal Emergency Management Agency-approved documentation. The software can also be used before an emergency to formulate an action plan for future use, said Layman.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120905/0717_Saratoga-Days-Prep-7.mp3The county-wide mass notification system Alert Sense was used during Saratoga Days. Layman said participants could text a keyword to Alert Sense and receive event specific updates.
The same system can be used to provide participants with information during an emergency.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120908/0717_Saratoga-Days-Prep-8.mp3Layman said 147 people temporarily opted in to the Alert Sense program during Saratoga Days.
The county emergency manager said preplanning is essential for disaster preparedness. Layman thanked Chief Morris for understanding the importance of preparing for an emergency before it happens.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120910/0717_Saratoga-Days-Prep-9.mp3Chief Morris, Emergency Manager Layman, and SCWEMS Director Mosbey said lessons learned during this year’s Saratoga Days emergency exercise will be used to make next year’s event safer for everyone.
The post Saratoga Days 2024 Used As Training Exercise For Emergency Management first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 17, 2024 |
Photo – Hanna Recreation Center – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Hanna, maintenance issues have come up as town officials prepare to close its recreation center.
The Hanna Recreation Center was constructed by the coal companies when mining was in full swing and thousands of people called Hanna home. After the coal mines closed, the rec center was gifted to the town.
Decades after the mines closed, Hanna has a population of less than 700 people. What was once the centerpiece of the northern Carbon County town, is now a heavy financial burden. The facility costs approximately $300,000 a year to operate—money the town does not have.
On top of the normal operational costs, the town was also facing additional expenses to repair out-of-date electrical systems. Repairs were estimated at roughly $50,000.
With costs mounting, Mayor Jayson Nordquist made the tough decision last month to close the facility.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120836/0717_Hanna-Rec-Center-1.mp3July 31st is the final day the rec center will be open to the public. Hanna officials said they wanted to use this year’s King Coal Days as a final celebration for the beloved facility.
Until then, the rec center is open for use on weekday evenings. However, maintenance problems are becoming an issue.
During the July 9th Hanna town council meeting, Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales said a recent inspection revealed three items that need repair, including a nonfunctioning hot water heater, damage to the women’s locker room, and broken siding.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120839/0717_Hanna-Rec-Center-2.mp3Clerk Gonzales said the inspector was unable to pinpoint the source of the water leak.
When the decision was made to close the rec center, the governing body said the building will remain available for special events, such as food distribution. However, the current maintenance issues may force the town to either spend more money on the facility or close it permanently.
The post Hanna Officials Decide On Closing Date For Rec Center first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 17, 2024 |
Photo – Example of a FEMA Flood Map – Bigfoot99 file photo
Carbon County will continue to follow federal flood insurance guidelines.
In 2016, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, began the process of updating flood plain maps across the country. The maps allege to show properties that are vulnerable to a once in a century flood. Landowners in the flood plain must purchase flood insurance or be barred from receiving certain types of federal disaster assistance.
During the July 2nd Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Planning and Development Coordinator Kristy Rowan explained that the county has participated in the National Flood Insurance Program for 40 years. Rowan said the county may adopt all or part of FEMA’s flood plain recommendations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120820/0717_Flood-Insurance-1.mp3Rowan explained the benefits of participating in the National Flood Insurance Program. The planning coordinator said opting into the federal program comes with many financial incentives.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120822/0717_Flood-Insurance-2.mp3Rowan said failure to take part in the National Flood Insurance Program limits the amount of federal and local disaster assistance available to the community.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120825/0717_Flood-Insurance-3.mp3Rowan said Encampment, Hanna, and Sinclair are the only municipalities in Carbon County that do not participate in the National Flood Insurance Program. The three towns join 27 other Wyoming municipalities opting out of the federal flood program.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120827/0717_Flood-Insurance-4.mp3Rowan said the FEMA flood plain maps are used extensively when reviewing building permit applications. The planning director said over the past 39 years, Carbon County has issued 21 building permits for construction projects in the flood zone.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120831/0717_Flood-Insurance-5.mp3The new FEMA flood plain maps are set to go into effect this December 20th. Rowan said the planning and development board will review the federal government’s requirements in late September and suggest ordinance changes to the commission in November.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/17120833/0717_Flood-Insurance-6.mp3Rowan said any ordinance change requires a 45-day notice prior to being formally adopted.
The new FEMA flood plain maps are not without controversy. Last year, former Saratoga councilman Jon Nelson pointed out perceived errors on the federal government’s map. Nelson said if the town adopts the new flood map, properties unaffected by major flooding in 2011 will be required to purchase flood insurance.
At Nelson’s behest, Public Works Director Emery Penner hired a Colorado-based engineering firm to examine the federal government’s proposed map. After a lengthy review, the engineering company was unable to find substantial errors with the FEMA flood plain maps and advised Saratoga officials not to fight for changes.
Rawlins City Manager Tom Sarvey also disagrees with FEMA’s findings. During the July 2nd Rawlins city council meeting, Sarvey accused the federal agency of not taking existing flood mitigation structures into account when designing the new map. The governing body has hired a local engineering firm to examine a retaining wall to ensure it is sufficient to prevent flood damage. If the wall is sound, Sarvey said he will submit a Letter of Map Adjustment, or LOMA, to FEMA in the hopes that the federal agency will amend its flood plain map.
The post Carbon County Officials Agree To Follow Federal Flood Insurance Guidelines first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 17, 2024 |
Photo – Coal mine in Powder River Basin – Courtesy of Fossil Fuel Connection web page
Wyoming’s Congressional Delegation, headed by Senator John Barrasso, has sent a letter Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland asking her to rescind her agency’s plan to kill future coal leasing in the Powder River Basin.
The letter, dated Tuesday, July 16, 2024, states that the Bureau of Land Management’s proposal to shut down mining in Wyoming’s coal-rich northwest corner would put reliable electricity in the nation at risk.
The Wyoming delegation cites two Federal Energy Regulatory Commission members, James Danley and Mark Christie, who said as recently as last year that the Biden Administration’s rush to shut down baseload coal-fired electric generation is premature and threatens to create a “reliability crisis” in the American energy sector.
The BLM’s proposed amendment to shut down the PRB to coal production, the delegation writes, threatens electric reliability across the country and puts Wyoming’s economy at risk, the delegation writes.
Wyoming leads the nation in coal production. About 40 percent of all coal mined in the United States comes from the Cowboy State. The Powder River Basin exports coal to over half of the country, 27 states in all.
The Congressional Delegation notes that the BLM’s plan to end coal production in the Powder River Basin will hurt K-12 education in Wyoming, eliminate jobs and damage multiple communities. The BLM’s own analysis acknowledges that ending coal leasing will put thousands of jobs in the state at risk and cost the state hundreds of millions of dollars.
The delegation closed the letter by asking Haaland to withdraw the BLM’s proposed amendment to the Buffalo RMP.
The post Wyoming’s Congressional Delegation Writes Letter To Secretary Of Interior first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 16, 2024 |
Photo – Trump and Vance – Courtesy BBC web page
The Republican presidential ticket is settled. Former President Donald Trump announced that Ohio Senator J.D. Vance will be his running mate in the 2024 election.
Vance, 39, was elected to the senate from his home state in 2023. He is widely seen as the heir apparent to the America First movement ushered in by Trump’s election in 2016. He is the first U.S. Marine and the first millennial to be part of a major presidential ticket.
The attempt to assassinate Trump on Saturday and the lingering threats on his life gave new urgency to choosing a vice-presidential running mate.
The reaction from Biden-Harris campaign underlined the significance of the choice. The chair of the Democrat ticket, Jen O’Malley-Dillon, said, “Vance will do what Mike Pence wouldn’t on January 6, “bend over backwards for Trump”.
Republicans likely would welcome a VP who has Trump’s back. Here’s what Vance said after being selected as Trump’s vice-president selection.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112315/0716_JD-Vance.mp3Trump wrote in a statement. “J.D. honorably served our Country in the Marine Corps, graduated from Ohio State University in two years, Summa Cum Laude, and is a Yale Law School Graduate, where he was Editor of The Yale Law Journal and President of the Yale Law Veterans Association.”
Vance wrote one New York Times bestseller, “Hillbilly Elegy, A Memoir of Family and Culture in Crisis.” The book recounts the struggles of growing up in white working-class America while struggling against poverty, drugs, alcohol and the lies of the political class in Washington, D.C.
An elegy is defined as a sorrowful poem filled with melancholy. In English literature, it is often written as a lament for the dead.
Vance is often described a voice of America’s forgotten men and women.
Trump officially became the 2024 Republican Party presidential nominee on Monday after he received support from a majority of delegates at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Meanwhile, Trump is one of only six Americans to receive a major party’s nomination more than twice. The five others include Presidents Thomas Jefferson, Grover Cleveland, William Jennings Bryan, Franklin Roosevelt, and Richard Nixon.
The official nomination of Trump came two days after a shooter attempted to assassinate Trump during a campaign rally on Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania.
On Saturday, hours after the assassination attempt on the former president, Vance tweeted this: “Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs.” Vance went onto say the that the rhetoric from the Biden White House “led directly President Trump’s attempted assassination.”
The Wyoming Congressional Delegation applauded the decision. Senator John Barrasso, “No one will work harder for the American people than President Trump and JD Vance.”
Lummis said Vance’s rise from poverty to become a vice-presidential nominee makes him “an inspiration to young people across the country.”
U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman saluted the choice and said she can’t wait to see Vance debate Vice President Kamala Harris.
Near the close of the opening day of the Republican Convention in Milwaukee last night, Donald Trump was given a hero’s welcome as he appeared for the first time in public since surviving the assassination attempt on Saturday. Lee Greenwood was on the stage singing his familiar tribute as Trump walked to his seat and stood beside his vice-presidential pick.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112318/0716_Trump-at-Convention.mp3Trump appeared at the convention a little more than 48 hours after surviving Saturday’s failed assassination attempt in Pennsylvania.
The post Republican Presidential Ticket Has Been Decided And Set first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 16, 2024 |
Photo – Volunteers at Food Bank of Wyoming fill boxes to be distributed – Courtesy Food Bank of Wyoming
To abide by its own rules, the Wyoming Food Bank will deliver less food to Hanna residents.
Once every other month, trucks from the Wyoming Food Bank in Casper distribute food outside of the Hanna Recreation Center. In the past, any food that wasn’t taken by residents was given to the Heart of Hanna, a local consignment and thrift store. Workers at the Heart of Hanna offered the food to anyone in need, free of charge. Hanna residents who couldn’t make the set distribution date relied on the Heart of Hanna to hand out the leftover food.
Former Hanna Recreation Director Kim Connolly oversaw the bimonthly Wyoming Food Bank distribution process. Following Connolly’s resignation last month, Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales assumed responsibility for handing out the food.
During the July 9th Hanna town council meeting, Clerk Gonzales said the Wyoming Food Bank dictates that extra food is to be given directly to community members, not to a specific organization.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112305/0716_Hanna-Food-Truck-1.mp3Clerk Gonzales said Wyoming Food Bank does not allow the excess food to be stored and handed out on a different day. Gonzales said she doesn’t know how or why the Heart of Hanna began receiving the extra food.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112307/0716_Hanna-Food-Truck-2.mp3Clerk Gonzales said Wyoming Food Bank was sending the town 92 prepackaged boxes of food. To comply with the charity organization’s guidelines and prevent wasted food, Gonzales reduced the number of boxes Hanna receives. Additionally, she ensured that food distribution occurs only at a specific time outside the recreation center.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112309/0716_Hanna-Food-Truck-3.mp3Gonzales said Wyoming Food Bank requires people register as a proxy before they are allowed to pick up food boxes for people unable to make the distribution date. The town clerk encouraged residents to help their neighbors by serving as their official proxy.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112311/0716_Hanna-Food-Truck-4.mp3Gonzales said Wyoming Food Bank tracks how much food is distributed to Hanna residents. The town clerk said she must comply with the rules to prevent the charity organization from denying service to Hanna in the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112313/0716_Hanna-Food-Truck-5.mp3Mayor Jayson Nordquist acknowledged that the town was not obeying the charity’s regulations by allowing the Heart of Hanna to take leftover food. Mayor Nordquist said the town will handle food distribution correctly from now on.
Gonzales said Wyoming Food Bank proxy forms are available in the Hanna town hall.
The post Hanna Officials Will Follow Rules Of Food Bank first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 16, 2024 |
Photo – Snowy Range and Battle Pass Scenic Byways – Courtesy Discover Carbon County, Wyoming
Discover Carbon County is working to create a scenic byway management plan for the Snowy Range and Battle Pass byways.
Carbon County Visitor’s Council Chief Executive Officer Leslie Jefferson said she would like to open our area’s two scenic byways up for federal recognition. To do so, Jefferson said an updated corridor management plan is required for Highways 130 and 70. The existing plans are either far out of date or missing, said Jefferson.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112255/0716_Corridor-Mgt-1.mp3A corridor management plan is a multi-year strategy to address how byway resources will be protected over time.
Typically, the National Forest Service updates the corridor management plan every ten years. Jefferson said the Carbon County Visitor’s Council hired Wanda Maloney, owner of Corridor Solutions, to create a new plan for both the Snowy Range and Battle Pass byways. Jefferson said Maloney was responsible for obtaining federal recognition for the Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112257/0716_Corridor-Mgt-2.mp3Jefferson said the Snowy Range and Battle Pass are currently only recognized as scenic byways by the state of Wyoming. Having an up-to-date corridor management plan will help Carbon County obtain additional funding for maintenance and improvements to the seasonal roads.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112300/0716_Corridor-Mgt-3.mp3Jefferson is asking property and business owners near either byway to take a ten-question survey to collect information and gauge public support for the creation of a corridor management plan. The Visitor’s Council CEO said the survey contains questions about a variety of potential projects that could be instituted if federal recognition is obtained.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/16112303/0716_Corridor-Mgt-4.mp3Time is of the essence. While it will be online until the end of the month, Jefferson is asking the public to take the survey today. That way, Jefferson said, the results can be discussed during tomorrow’s corridor management plan steering committee meeting.
A link to the corridor management plan survey will be included with this story when it is posted to the Bigfoot99 website later today.
Jefferson said the federal government only considers national scenic byways and all-American road designations every few years. Having a completed and up-to-date corridor management plan will allow Carbon County to quickly apply for federal recognition when the time comes.
Corridor Management Plan Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BattlePassSnowyRangeStakeholderSurveyfbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1NVcUlXJ41t8tcc9l_Z_EuG50THZZsjvvjx2XSERCb0WWWk3PLMq31ujM_aem_pUCAQWuPSkvxSzgMu9WEQ
The post Discover Carbon County Wyoming Works For Federal Recognition Of Scenic Byways first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 16, 2024 |
Photo – Horse and wagon announcing Cowboy Gathering – Courtesy Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering Facebook page
Saratoga’s own cowboy musician Daron Little will perform his “Cowpuncher Music” this weekend at the 22nd Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering (GECG) in Encampment. He will be joined by another dozen noted cowboy poets and musicians at Grand View Park, Opera House and Encampment school.
Kicking off the three-day event Friday evening at 6:30 in Grand View Park will be the open mic poetry and music performance, hosted by GECG Outfit member Jason Swedlund, followed by the traditional and popular Campfire Jam Session, under the direction of Henry Pratte, at the fire pit in the park. You are invited to join the entertainers to pick, sing, tell tales, listen or just watch and enjoy.
An addition this year is food venders at the Park on Friday, including Wyo Bowls and Olio.
Saturday morning will open at 9:00 o’clock with rawhide, leather and horsehair demonstrations by Matteo Abbruzzese and Jeff Freeze at the Park, followed by 4-H kids crafting demonstration and sale of their works of art at 10:00 o’clock.
Beginning at 10 a.m. in the Opera House downtown Cowboy Poet Yvonne Hollenbeck will present a quilt show program entitled “Patchwork on the Prairie.”
Lunch will be served by the Encampment/Riverside Lions Club beginning about 11 at the Park shelter.
The free “Western Entertainment Roundup,” under the direction of Jason Swedlund and featuring a dozen cowboy poets and musicians, begins at noon under the tents at the park. A memorial to folks who passed away during the past year will be featured.
Saturday evening at 7:00 in the Encampment school gym, western folk singer and entertainer Steve Moulton will emcee the “All-Star Cowboy Poetry and Music Show” featuring Kevin Davis, Daron Little and Yvonne Hollenbeck.
During the night show, other activities include a remembrance of Lynn Finney, an auction, plus the announcement of the winner of the R. G. Finney framed print, “Mountain Vista”.
Back in the park Sunday morning at 9:30, Cowboy Church will be conducted by Ken and Becky Kreusel, who will be joined by the Berger family and other volunteers.
Again, those planning to attend the events at Grand View Park are asked to take a chair and enjoy a weekend of good, old-fashioned, wholesome entertainment sponsored by the Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering Outfit. Seating will be provided at the Quilt Show and Saturday night at the all-star show in the Encampment school gym.
The post Three Day Event Will Entertain Those Who Are Cowboys At Heart first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 15, 2024 |
Photo – HD 15 Candidates Terry Weickum (left) and Pam Thayer (right) – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
On Thursday evening, House District 15 Republican candidates Terry Weickum and Pam Thayer held a question-and-answer session at the Carbon County Higher Education Center in Rawlins.
Wyoming House District 15 covers the northwestern corner of Carbon County and the northeast corner of Sweetwater County, including the municipalities of Rawlins, Sinclair, and Bairoil.
Rawlins Mayor and former Carbon County Commission Chairman Terry Weickum, Rawlins Downtown Development Authority Executive Director Pam Thayer, and mental health advisor and No More Empty Saddles co-founder Sheryl Foland are vying for Donald Burkhart’s seat, as he steps away from the Wyoming legislature.
The Carbon County Higher Education Center invited the three candidates to a forum-style discussion. Foland was unable to attend the event for unspecified reasons.
Higher Education Center Executive Director Jennifer Moore moderated the forum. Following a brief introduction by the two candidates, Moore asked about their goals as Wyoming representatives, how they plan to assist the community, and the potential challenges they might face.
Thayer said she wants to entice young people to stay in Wyoming by creating new job opportunities.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100203/0715_HD-15-Debate_1.mp3Weickum said his goal is to educate the state legislature about the unique challenges faced by small municipalities. The candidate said changing the minds of lawmakers may be difficult.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100206/0715_HD-15-Debate_2.mp3The candidates were asked about how they make decisions.
Weickum said as the District 15 representative, he will put his personal feelings aside and do what is best for his constituents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100208/0715_HD-15-Debate_3.mp3Thayer said she will thoroughly study every bill before voting. The candidate said bills can contain hidden provisions that may negatively impact the people of District 15.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100210/0715_HD-15-Debate_4.mp3Moore asked about the candidates’ opinions regarding taxpayer-funded public services.
Thayer said residents need to be better informed about how their tax money is spent.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100213/0715_HD-15-Debate_5.mp3Weickum said taxes are a divisive subject. Residents want well-funded services, but are often reluctant to pay for them. Weickum said the state can’t continue taxing more affluent towns, such as Jackson, in the same manner as Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100215/0715_HD-15-Debate_6.mp3The candidates were then asked about the rising cost of education. Both Weickum and Thayer agreed that more educational opportunities, such as increased access to trade schools, are important.
Moore asked the candidates how they felt about paying to send students to privately owned schools using taxpayer money.
Thayer said she does not support the private school voucher program.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100217/0715_HD-15-Debate_7.mp3Weickum disagreed, saying that he supports all types of education, including public school, private school, and home schooling. The house candidate said some students learn better in different environments.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100220/0715_HD-15-Debate_8.mp3Both candidates focused on increasing education opportunities for young people as a way to maintain the district’s dwindling population and increase economic growth.
The House District 15 primary election will occur on August 20. Voters will pick one of the Republican candidates to run in the November general election. Because District 15 has no Democratic candidate, whoever is chosen on August 20th will go on to represent House District 15 in the state legislature.
The post HD 15 Candidates Answer Questions At CCHEC Forum first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 15, 2024 |
Photo – Link to Hazard Mitigation survey – Courtesy CCOEM
The Carbon County Office of Emergency Management is asking residents to take a short online study about hazard prevention and preparation.
Emergency Manager Lenny Layman is updating the Region Three Hazard Mitigation Plan. Region Three encompasses both Carbon and Albany Counties.
Layman describes “Hazard Mitigation” as actions that can help reduce or eliminate long-term risks caused by hazards, such as wildfires, drought, floods, and severe winter storms.
Speaking to Bigfoot99, Layman said having an up-to-date hazard mitigation plan will help Carbon County predict, manage, and pay for large-scale disasters.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100154/0715_Hazard-Plan-1.mp3Every five years, the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security pays to have a new Hazard Mitigation Plan created for each region of the state. The Region Three plan was last updated in 2019. This year, the Boulder, Colorado-based consulting firm, Synergy Disaster Recovery was tasked with developing a new hazard mitigation plan for our area.
Layman is asking residents, organizations, and businesses to contribute to the hazard mitigation planning process through an online survey. Layman said the Carbon County-specific survey will allow him to better understand how residents view and prepare for hazards.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100156/0715_Hazard-Plan-2.mp3Layman said the online survey is quick and easy to complete. The emergency manager said data collected through the survey will enable the 2024 Region Three Hazard Mitigation Plan to be as comprehensive as possible.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100158/0715_Hazard-Plan-3.mp3Layman said Carbon County is home to wildfires, floods, and high winds. The emergency manager said by participating in the survey, residents can identify the disasters they want the county to be best prepared against.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100201/0715_Hazard-Plan-4.mp3Layman said mitigation planning helps communities take action to reduce the impact of a disaster before it occurs. A well-informed hazard mitigation plan will help residents, business owners, and municipalities plan and design different methods of risk reduction.
Layman is asking every Carbon County resident to take the 2024 Hazard Mitigation Plan survey. The emergency manager said mitigation is an investment in a community’s future safety and sustainability.
Layman said he expects the updated hazard mitigation plan to be adopted by January 2025.
A link to the 2024 Region Three Hazard Mitigation Plan online survey will be included with this story when it is posted to the Bigfoot99 website later today.
Hazard Mitigation survey: https://bit.ly/WYR3_PublicSurveyCarbon
The post Emergency Manager Requests All County Residents To Take Survey first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 15, 2024 |
Photo – Medicine Bow, WY sign – Bigfoot99 file photo
The town of Medicine Bow is offering a free garbage removal weekend for residents.
In the past, the Medicine Bow public works department arranged a community clean-up day where residents could have trash taken to the dump for free. Town workers collected all types of refuse, including large appliances and chemicals.
During the July 8th Medicine Bow town council meeting, the governing body voted to bring back the free community clean-up event. However, Public Works Director Brian Lashley said during previous clean-up days, the town spent nearly $9,000 disposing of appliances and chemicals. The price tag can be halved by refusing to take that type of garbage, said Lashley.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100222/0715_Med-Bow-Clean-up-1.mp3Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer said the town should haul away regular trash for free, but charge for tires and large appliances, such as washing machines and refrigerators.
Councilman Lee Cook asked if an additional fee will discourage residents from throwing those specific items away. Mayor Justin George and Councilman Trevor Strauch said the low price to dispose of tires should entice people to participate in the clean-up days.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100224/0715_Med-Bow-Clean-up-2.mp3Mayor George said the town should cover the cost of normal garbage removal and charge a fee to haul away appliances and tires. Due to the high cost of disposal, the mayor said all chemicals will be denied.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100226/0715_Med-Bow-Clean-up-3.mp3Mayor George offered to use his personal skid steer during the community clean-up days. Councilwoman Wickizer said a Medicine Bow resident has also volunteered his heavy equipment for the event, but at a cost: two fence posts.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100228/0715_Med-Bow-Clean-up-4.mp3Public Works Director Lashley said he has over 30 unused fence posts to offer the resident for his assistance.
The town council voted to trade the fence posts in exchange for labor.
The Medicine Bow community clean-up days will be Thursday, August 8th, to Saturday, August 10th. Public Works Director Lashley will post a list of items that the town will either accept for a fee or decline altogether before that time.
The post Residents Of Medicine Bow Will Have Trash Hauled Away At No Charge first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 15, 2024 |
Photo – Trump with Secret Service after assassination attempt – Courtesy BBC website
Donald Trump narrowly survived an assassination attempt at a campaign rally north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Saturday evening.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100231/0715_Trump-Assassination-1.mp3The rooftop assassin, later identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, a leafy suburb south of Pittsburgh, was shot and killed by sharpshooters. The assassin had climbed to a position on a building top 330 yards outside the park where the rally was held.
After the initial shots rang out, President Trump grabbed his ear and dove behind the podium. Within two seconds, secret service agents dove on top of the former president to provide cover.
After agents received word that the rooftop shooter had been killed, they surrounded Trump and led him off the stage. Bleeding from above his right ear, the former president pumped his clenched fist and yelled “Fight! Fight! Fight!” The crowd responded, chanting, “USA! USA! USA!”
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100234/0715_Trump-Assassination-2.mp3As Trump was seen being hustled into a waiting limousine, Several crowd attendees could be seen holding up their middle fingers in angry defiance at television news cameras.
Wyoming leaders were quick to respond in separate emails to the attempted assassination. Senator John Barrasso said, “Today, the nation witnessed a horrifying assassination attempt on President Trump. America is grateful to the quick action of the Secret Service and local law enforcement. I’m praying for the victims and their families. Donald Trump is a warrior and will not be intimidated by this cowardly attack.”
Senator Cynthia Lummis said she was “horrified,” adding that, “political violence has no place in this country”
Governor Mark Gordon responded, saying, “President Trump and the families of the victims of today’s shooting are in our prayers. This is truly a sad day for our Republic and should serve as a wake-up call for all Americans to express disagreement without resorting to violence.”
In Butler, Pennsylvania, residents who were attending a private party outside the venue at a local business expressed alarm that police and Secret Service did not respond to their eyewitness report of a shooter climbing to a perch on a building across from the presidential venue.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/15100236/0715_Trump-Assassination-3.mp3Eyewitness video in the moments before shots were fired show the assassin, laid out on the roof, taking aim from a perch 150 yards from where Trump was speaking. A few seconds after five shots rang out, Secret service marksman killed the shooter where he was perched.
The shooter was clearly visible. Media reports say some rally-goers, with apparently sharper eyes than the president’s security detail, captured video of the assassination attempt. Several noticed the gunman climb to his perch with a rifle three to four minutes prior to the shooting.
Secret Service Director Kimberely Cheatle was sworn into the office on September 17, 2022, by Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas.
In a tweet Saturday night following the assassination attempt on Trump, Elon Musk mocked Cheatle saying that before being put in charge of protecting the president, Cheatle “was guarding bags of Cheetos.”
An apparent DEI hire by Biden Administration, Cheatle said in an interview last year with CBS that her goal is to increase female recruits to the Secret Service by 30%.
FBI officials said the shooter was identified using DNA because he was not carrying any identification. When Crooks was 17 he made a $15 donation to ActBlue, a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians, according to a 2021 Federal Election Commission filing, according to Reuters. Crook was registered as a Republican.
In a statement Sunday morning on Truth Social, Trump said “God alone spared him.” One of the assassin’s bullets pierced the upper part of Trump’s right ear.
The shooter killed one spectator and “critically, injured” two others, according to the Secret Service. Minutes before the assassination attempt President Joe Biden’s social media account referred to Trump as a “dictator.” The post was still up Sunday morning.
In a post Sunday morning, Trump remained strong, saying, “We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness.”
The post Information Released On Trump Assassination Attempt first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 12, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins city council candidates – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
The Carbon County Higher Education Center hosted a forum featuring ten of the candidates running for Rawlins city council.
On Wednesday evening, ten Rawlins residents met to explain their policies and why they want to be on the city council. Carbon County Higher Education Center Student Services Specialist Cory Hudson moderated the event.
Hudson began by reading a letter from Ward One candidate, De Shann Schinkel. In her letter, Schinkel, who was unable to attend Wednesday’s meeting in person, said she is a former Rawlins grant administrator and parks and recreation director. Reading from Schinkel’s letter, Hudson said the candidate’s experience makes her an ideal city council member.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110422/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-1.mp3Hudson asked the ten candidates in attendance to introduce themselves and explain why they are running and what they hope to accomplish if elected to the Rawlins city council.
Ward One candidate Derek Elliott said he is a Rawlins native and loves the city. Elliott said if elected, he will work on important infrastructure projects and increase sidewalk access for residents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110424/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-2.mp3Next, Ward One candidate DeBari Martinez said he has 40 years of city council experience. Martinez said he is running for council again because he isn’t done serving the public.
Ward Two candidate Stanley Bugg said he’s lived in Rawlins for 45 years. Bugg said as a council member, he will work to ensure Ward Two is properly represented.
Linda Ann Smith is also running for Ward Two. Smith said she is a two term Rawlins city council member and has more than 18 years of experience with city and county budgets. If elected, Smith said she’ll look for grant money to pay for water infrastructure projects and lower costs for residents.
Sitting council member Darril Garner is running for Ward Two again. Garner said the city’s declining population limits spending. Garner said he’ll increase the city’s business-friendliness and encourage young people to stay by creating more career opportunities.
Ward Three candidate Marco Dane Paschal said he is running because people in his ward want change. Paschal said he doesn’t intend to make any big changes, just help people.
Danny Rodriguez is also running to represent Ward Three. Rodriguez said he worked for the city for 23 years at the water treatment plant and oversaw the construction of the pretreatment plant. Rodriguez said he wants to be on the city council so he can have a say in how infrastructure projects are prioritized.
Current Ward Three council member Chris Weisenburg said as a member of the Rawlins Planning and Zoning Committee, he has invited several businesses into the city, including an in-home day care and an off-track horse betting parlor. Weisenburg said if reelected, he’ll continue to work on the water infrastructure projects.
Ward Three candidate Patrick Gonzales said he was the city’s grant administrator for five years. Gonzales said he wants to regain the public’s trust in the city council by being more transparent.
And finally, Ward Three candidate Terry B. Patterson said he served with the Rawlins Fire Department for 15 years and is currently on the Fire Civil Service Commission. Patterson said as a council member, he’ll try to engage more with the city’s youth.
Student Services Specialist Cory Hudson asked each candidate what assurances they’ll give to the voters about the water system and rate increases.
DeBari Martinez said the recent water rate increase was unpleasant, but necessary. However, Martinez said as a council member, he will try to find a way to reduce the cost of water for residents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110426/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-3.mp3Stanley Bugg agreed that the water rate increase was long overdue. Bugg said if elected, he’ll look for grants to help offset residents’ water bills.
Linda Ann Smith said city staff are already addressing the water system problems. As a council member, Smith said she’ll direct more impact assistance funding toward the water projects.
Councilman Darril Garner said work on the city’s water infrastructure is almost ready to start. Garner said he wants to keep the momentum going.
Marco Dane Paschal said as a council member, he will encourage residents to donate money toward the infrastructure projects. Paschal said people shouldn’t rely on the government to fix all their problems.
Danny Rodriguez said the current council is prioritizing the wrong water system projects. Rodriguez said he will ensure the high-pressure line feeding the city’s water tanks is addressed first.
Councilman Chris Weisenburg said the governing body is already doing everything it can to address the water problems. Weisenburg said the high median income of city residents makes it difficult to find grants.
Patrick Gonzales acknowledged that finding grants is difficult. Gonzales said he will look at alternative funding sources, such as the federal government, to pay for the water projects.
Terry Patterson said as a level four water treatment plant operator, he has unique insight on the city’s water issues. Patterson said if elected, he’ll prioritize replacing the failing water storage tanks.
Derek Elliott said the increased water rates are hurting fixed income residents. Elliott said as a council member, he’ll seek advice from the older generation.
Moderator Hudson asked each candidate about their budget experience and what city services they will prioritize.
Bugg said City Manager Tom Sarvey has done a great job with the city’s finances. Bugg said he has extensive knowledge of the budgeting process and will ensure that money is set aside to repair and maintain the city’s roads and utilities.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110429/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-4.mp3Smith explained that the budget is made up of different pots of money, some of which are restricted and cannot be used for other departments.
Smith said as a council member, she will prioritize the health and safety of residents by making sure the police, fire, and streets departments are properly funded.
Garner said the budget is complex and thanked City Manager Sarvey for working on it. Garner said the city can save money by joining the proposed joint emergency dispatch call center between the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office and the Saratoga Police Department.
Paschal said residents should contribute more for the services they want to see. He encouraged people to organize a fundraiser with the purpose of collecting funds to repair potholes.
Rodriguez said as a former water treatment plant operator, he was responsible for ensuring the money set aside in the budget was used properly. Rodriguez said as a council member, he will use city workers over contractors whenever possible to cut costs.
Weisenburg said the Chokecherry wind turbine project will bring a lot of tax revenue into the city. The councilman said he would like to set aside $1 million each year for road repairs.
Gonzales said he has experience working with budgets from his time as the city’s grant administrator. Gonzales said he will look for additional grants to supplement the city budget.
Patterson said water must take precedence over all other aspects of the budget, including police and fire. He said the city can’t have a functioning fire department without a reliable supply of water.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110431/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-5.mp3Patterson also said he does not support closing the Rawlins Family Recreation Center.
Elliott said he doesn’t know a lot about the budget. However, Elliott said he will meet with the city manager and see if there are areas that can be cut.
Martinez said the finance director is responsible for creating the yearly budget.
Moderator Hudson said tourism is critical to the economic development of Carbon County. Hudson asked each candidate how they will attract more tourism to Rawlins.
Smith said the city lacks the national presence needed to draw out-of-state visitors. She said Rawlins must emphasize bringing tourism-related businesses into the city.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110434/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-6.mp3Councilman Garner said Rawlins is perfectly located to draw visitors off Interstate 80. However, Garner said the city needs to advertise its amenities and businesses more, such as the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course.
Paschal said the city should promote the golf course in the same manner as old Route 66 roadside attractions.
Rodriguez said more people would be tempted to visit Rawlins if there wasn’t so much negativity on social media. He also suggested making the city more visually appealing.
Councilman Weisenburg said additional businesses will attract more visitors. However, Weisenburg said the water problems need to be addressed first.
Gonzales also said the city needs more businesses. He suggested creating new events, such as a Big Nose George day, to draw people to Rawlins.
Patterson also said Rawlins needs additional businesses to attract more visitors.
Elliott said the city should do more to encourage residents to open businesses. He suggested creating a motocross track, inviting more celebrities to play at the golf course, and allowing people to stay overnight in the Old Pen.
Martinez said the Bureau of Land Management is working to revitalize Rim Lake. Once that happens, Martinez said people will be attracted to the city.
Bugg said the city needs to beautify East Ceder Street. He suggested using inmates from the state penitentiary to pick up trash and cut weeds.
Moderator Hudson then asked the candidates what they will do to reestablish the public’s trust in their elected officials.
Councilman Garner said four years ago, people trusted the city council more than they do today. Garner said the council needs to be more transparent and polite to residents to regain that trust.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110436/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-7.mp3Paschal used the opportunity to remind residents to be nicer to police officers. He then said speed bumps should be installed on West Spruce Street to slow down motorists exiting Interstate 80.
Rodriguez said the council is doing a great job and blamed negative social media comments for the distrust of the governing body.
Councilman Weisenburg agreed that negative comments are not helping make the community better. The councilman said he would like to see the tight streets in Ward Three widened.
Gonzales said the online negativity comes from the attitude of the governing body. He said the council needs to be held accountable for their actions. Gonzales also agreed that Ward Three needs wider streets.
Patterson echoed Weisenburg’s comment about the narrow roads in Ward Three. If elected, Patterson said he’ll vote for better sidewalks.
Elliott said Mayor Terry Weickum welcomes public comments during every city council meeting. He encouraged more young people to attend the meetings.
Martinez said only a small percentage of the population posts negative online comments. As a council member in the past, Martinez said he took two hours out of every day to drive around the city and engage with voters.
Bugg encouraged residents to attend the city council meetings, either in person or online. He said having firsthand knowledge of what the council is doing helps fight misinformation.
Smith suggested asking for more feedback from the community about certain issues. She also said the council needs to focus more governing and less on bickering.
Moderator Hudson opened the floor for final remarks from each candidate.
Paschal said he is a recent Wyoming transplant. He said he fell in love with Rawlins and wants to make the city better as a council member.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110439/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-8.mp3Rodriguez said he has remained current with his water and wastewater certifications. While Rawlins has plenty of water now, Rodriguez said the city must be prepared for future drought conditions by making use of the pretreatment plant.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110441/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-9.mp3Councilman Weisenburg thanked the public for electing him to represent Ward Three. The councilman asked to be reelected to the Rawlins city council.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110443/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-10.mp3Gonzales encouraged voters to embrace new ideas. He said the old way of thinking has caused the city to miss out on economic opportunities.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110445/0712_Rawlins-Council-Forum-11.mp3Patterson said he hasn’t participated in government in the past. As a retiree, Patterson said he now has the time to serve his community.
Elliott encouraged young people to vote for him.
Martinez said he will continue to work with the other members of the governing body to affect change, just as he did during his previous 40 years on the council.
Bugg said he is always available to talk to constituents and will work to make residents proud.
Smith said she loves the city and wants to make it better.
Councilman Garner said he was proud of the number of citizens running to serve their communities.
On August 20th, Rawlins residents will choose one candidate from each ward to represent them in the primary elections.
The post Forum Held For Rawlins City Council Candidates first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 12, 2024 |
Photo – Senator Cynthia Lummis – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Washington, D.C., U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) teamed up with Senator JD Vance of Ohio in introducing legislation that would eliminate so-called diversity, equity and inclusion programs, A.K.A. President Joe Biden has pushed DEI programs in the federal government. According to Wyoming’s junior senator, the bill is aimed at protecting tax payer dollars against so-called woke spending priorities.
Lummis said DEI programs are not about promoting fairness, they are about exacerbating discourse and worsening racial biases, and there is no place for these divisive initiatives in the federal government.
The Dismantle DEI Act would eliminate DEI programs within the federal government and rescind President Biden’s executive orders regarding DEI by outlawing mandatory employee DEI pledges, ending DEI training, and preventing educational accreditation agencies from leveraging their position to push DEI policies in education institutions.
The post Wyoming Senator Co-introduces Anti DEI Legislation first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 12, 2024 |
Photo – MHCC – Bigfoot99 file photo
Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is teaming up with the National Outdoor Leadership School to provide students with emergency medical training.
The National Outdoor Leadership School, or NOLS for short, is a Lander, Wyoming based nonprofit wilderness school that seeks to help people become better leaders through outdoor training. For the first time, NOLS students are visiting Memorial Hospital of Carbon County in Rawlins to take college accredited EMT training courses.
Emergency Department Manager Dan Starr said the classes teach students how to handle outdoor medical emergency situations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110407/0712_MHCC-1.mp3Starr said students must spend time in a hospital emergency room to become EMT certified in the state of Wyoming. The ER manager said the National Outdoor Leadership School reached out to Memorial Hospital to provide students with the required training. Starr said NOLS students will continue to attend EMT classes in Rawlins until winter sets in.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110410/0712_MHCC-2.mp3Starr said NOLS students spend eight hours training in the hospital’s emergency room to prepare them for a career in medicine. After obtaining a patient’s permission, the students are tasked with performing medical assessments and obtaining vital signs.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110412/0712_MHCC-3.mp3Marketing Coordinator Keishah Edwards provided a testimonial from one of the NOLS students. The student said they had a bad experience at another facility. Upon arriving in Rawlins, they were impressed by the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Memorial Hospital. Starr said National Outdoor Leadership School students appreciate receiving EMT training in Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110414/0712_MHCC-4.mp3Starr said he has been in contact with the National Outdoor Leadership School administration to have Memorial Hospital continue to provide EMT courses to students in the coming years. The ER manager said students from across the country have trained in Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110416/0712_MHCC-5.mp3Starr said some National Outdoor Leadership School students take the EMT classes for college credits. Other students will use the training to pursue a career in the medical field. The ER manager said the course allows the young people to experience what working in a hospital is really like.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110418/0712_MHCC-6.mp3Starr said emergency room staff appreciate having the NOLS students around. The ER Manager said the young people allow his staff to review the basics of medical care.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110420/0712_MHCC-7.mp3Starr said in the past, Memorial Hospital of Carbon County was a highly regarded teaching hospital. By bringing in the National Outdoor Leadership School students, Starr said the hospital is slowing getting back to its teaching roots.
The post School In Lander Using MHCC As Medical Training Facility first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 12, 2024 |
Photo – Sink hole on CR 297 – Bigfoot99 file photo
Another subsidence causes County Road 297 in Hanna to close again.
The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality’s Abandoned Mine Lands has done a lot of work to shore up the collapsing coal mines that undermine the northern Carbon County town of Hanna.
Last May, a section of County Road 297, otherwise known as North Hanna Access Road collapsed into the mines. Abandoned Mine Lands contractors used a special slurry mixture to fill voids beneath the road, making it safe to drive on again.
Yesterday morning, another hole opened on the same road. AML Director Don Newton told Bigfoot99 that even after spending millions of dollars, filling every coal mine below Hanna is impossible.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110400/0712_Hanna-Road-1.mp3Newton said representatives from AML will meet with the Hanna town council to discuss how to proceed. In the meantime, County Road 297 will be closed until further notice.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/12110403/0712_Hanna-Road-2.mp3Bigfoot99 called the Hanna town hall yesterday afternoon and discovered that no official meeting between the council and AML has been scheduled. Reporter Matt Copeland was told that representatives from the state are planning to visit the town soon, but no plans have been made to hold a special meeting to discuss the subsidence on County Road 297 yet.
The post County Road 297 North Of Hanna Closed Until Further Notice first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 12, 2024 |
Photo – Cheat grass – Courtesy USFS
Good news for ranchers. Governor Gordon received long-awaited approval from the Bureau of Land Management for seven herbicides to control noxious weeds and invasive species, including Indaziflam.
Indaziflam has been proven to help grazing permittees eliminate cheat grass, a terrestrial invasive species. The herbicide is used by the U.S. Forest Service and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and is being applied throughout Wyoming successfully to limit the spread of cheat grass and other invasive species.
Governor Gordon said in a statement that while he welcomed the approval, “it would have been even more welcome months ago as states and counties were planning a coordinated spraying program for the season.”
Wyoming’s governor said “having additional tools to ensure a consistent, thorough, and effective invasive plant eradication effort benefits Wyoming’s wildlife, fire prevention, and habitat improvement programs.”
With Thursday’s long-awaited approval, Indaziflam will be eligible for application on 18 million acres of BLM land in Wyoming.
Wyoming invests millions of dollars annually to prevent the proliferation of terrestrial invasive species, including cheat grass, ventana, and medusahead.
The Governor, who comes from a ranching background, consistently spearheads the fight against invasive species and led a task force to that made recommendations on how to best target eradication.
At the Governor’s request, the Wyoming Legislature approved $9 million for battling terrestrial invasives this year.
The post BLM Approves Governor’s Request To Apply Herbicides For Noxious Weed Control first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 11, 2024 |
Photo – Cover page of Water Master Plan draft copy – Courtesy City of Rawlins
In Rawlins, officials reported this week that fixing the city’s struggling water system will cost over $26 million.
On Tuesday afternoon, representatives from the Wyoming Water Development Office and WWC Engineering met with city staff for a special workshop to discuss the findings of the recently completed draft water master plan.
Wyoming Water Development Office Project Manager George Moser explained that the draft master plan shows needed water infrastructure repairs and potential sources of funding.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095229/0711_Rawlins-Water-1.mp3In December of 2022, the Wyoming Water Development Office hired WWC Engineering to perform a study on the water infrastructure of Rawlins. On Tuesday afternoon, WWC Engineering Laramie Branch Manager Murray Schroeder reviewed his draft water master plan with the city council.
In his report, Schroeder listed four high priority projects requiring immediate repairs: Revitalizing the Sage Creek Springs, repairing blow-off valves on the transmission line from the springs to the Atlantic Rim Reservoir, addressing the high-pressure line crossing under the interstate, and replacing the two treated water storage tanks.
Schroeder began his presentation by talking about the five and a half miles of aging pipe running from the Sage Creek Spring boxes into the water treatment plant. The WWC engineer said fixing and replacing the pipes will cost roughly $9 million.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095232/0711_Rawlins-Water-2.mp3Schroeder said three-quarters of the city’s drinking water – 74% in all — comes from the springs. In the late 1980’s, the city built 25 miles of steel pipeline from the Sage Creek Springs to the Atlantic Rim Reservoir. Schroeder said 16 of the line’s blow-off valves are now failing. He said a valve failure could have disastrous effects, especially in the winter. Schroeder said fixing the water line will likely cost more than $5 million.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095234/0711_Rawlins-Water-3.mp3In early May of this year, the high-pressure water line supplying tanks on the west side of the city ruptured in three different locations. Rawlins public works crews replaced a 30-foot section of cast iron water main with plastic pipe.
Speaking to the city council Tuesday afternoon, Schroeder said the soil surrounding the buried high-pressure line is highly alkaline, which is causing the pipe to corrode. The engineer said replacing the entire 7,000-foot pipeline will cost up to $9 million.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095236/0711_Rawlins-Water-4.mp3Schroeder said a recent study shows that the city’s two treated water storage tanks have severe corrosion damage. The engineer said the tanks need to be replaced.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095238/0711_Rawlins-Water-5.mp3Schroeder estimated that installing two new tanks will cost $4.7 million.
Combined, repairs for the four repair projects total over $26 million. The city has already spent $3-million renovating the water pretreatment plant and the computer-controlled SCADA system there.
Schroeder explained how he expects the city to pay for the repairs. The engineer said assuming the Water Development Commission pays for half of the project, Rawlins must contribute $12 million of its own money.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095241/0711_Rawlins-Water-6.mp3The draft water master plan didn’t contain all bad news, however. Schroeder said the Nugget well field is still operating at near peak capacity.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095243/0711_Rawlins-Water-7.mp3Councilwoman Jacquelin Wells said she is worried that inflation may put the cost of repairs out of reach. Wells used the 6th Penny Tax funded Edinburgh Street repair project as an example of inflation causing construction costs to balloon out of control.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095245/0711_Rawlins-Water-8.mp3Wyoming Water Development Office Project Manager Moser said the effects of inflation are difficult to predict.
Mayor Terry Weickum said with the recent water rate increases, the city is doing everything it can to keep its water infrastructure operational. If the city takes out a loan to cover its part of the project costs, residents will be required to pay even more for water. Mayor Weickum said grants through the State Lands and Investments Board, or SLIB, will determine if Rawlins can accomplish the goals of the water master plan.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095247/0711_Rawlins-Water-9.mp3WWC Engineering Manager Schroeder said addressing the infrastructure weaknesses contained in the draft water master plan will take upwards of a decade.
The Rawlins city council will continue to review the report and come up with ways to fund the four high priority projects.
The post Rawlins Officials Report On Cost Of Repairs To Water System first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 11, 2024 |
Photo – Candidate for Deputy Secretary of the Interior Shannon Estenoz – Courtesy Department of Interior
In Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, Wyoming Senator John Barrasso laid out the case against the Biden Administration and, in particular, Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland. The ranking member of Energy and Natural Resources Committee delivered damning remarks during a hearing to consider the nomination of Shannon Estenoz to be Deputy Secretary of Interior.
Estenoz is currently the Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks at Interior.
In his four minutes of opening remarks, Senator Barrasso said the person who holds the job of Deputy Secretary of Interior has a profound impact on the people of Wyoming and the well-being of the state’s economy.
Then Barrasso launched into a lengthy critique of Haaland, the current secretary of Interior, and the job she has done overseeing mineral and energy development on federal lands. Barrasso did not hold back. He described Haaland as irresponsible and unfit, and described how the Biden Administration has used her to hurt Wyoming and the nation.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095251/0711_Sen-Barrasso-1.mp3For years, Wyoming has collected over a billion dollars annually from energy production. With the steep decline in federal revenues because of President Biden’s policies, the state legislature is now looking at a state income tax on top of rising property taxes.
Estenoz is a native of Florida where she has engaged in environmental and public land issues, including oil and gas. During the Q-and-A section of the exchange, Senator Barrasso asked Estenoz about the Bureau of Land Management’s Draft Resource Management Plan for the Rock Springs Field Office. The BLM’s plan would block public access to 3.5 million acres of federal land in southwest Wyoming. If finalized, livelihoods would be impacted. The state’s congressional delegation, the governor, the legislature and county commissioners have rallied in opposition to the BLM plan.
Governor Barrasso asked Estenoz for her take on the plan.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095253/0711_Sen-Barrasso-2.mp3The purpose of Wednesday’s hearing was to consider the nomination of Estenoz, who spent much of her career in the Florida Everglades, to be Deputy Secretary of the Interior.
Her frank replies and sense of reasonableness to sharp questioning from Republicans on the senate Committee raised hopes that she will be a voice of sanity in an Interior Department that many see as lawless, if not reckless, for blocking development of fossil fuels and coal on federal lands. Washington insiders say Estenoz faces long odds for confirmation during this election year when many lawmakers are angry with the anti-development energy policies of the Biden Administration
If confirmed, Estenoz would replace Laura Daniel-Davis, who has been holding the job in an acting capacity.
The post Senator Barrasso Questions Candidate For Deputy Secretary Of Interior first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 11, 2024 |
Photo – Candidate Forum at PVCC – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Four of the five candidates running for county commissioner met in Saratoga to answer questions and engage with voters.
Tuesday evening, county commissioner candidates Gwynn Bartlett, Sue Jones, Jimmy Hinkle, and John Espy gathered in the Platte Valley Community Center to hold a candidate forum hosted by the Valley Service Organization. Sitting commissioner Garrett Irene, who is also running in the upcoming election, was not present, having been called to respond to fires that evening. Roughly 30 people attended Tuesday’s forum.
Valley Service Organization volunteer Connie Patterson began by asking each candidate, if elected, what single part of the county government they will focus on.
Current Commissioner John Espy is running for a fourth term. Commissioner Espy said the most important aspect of the county government is setting the budget.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095159/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-1.mp3Sinclair Refinery Plant Operator, James Hinkle, agreed that the budget takes precedence. However, Hinkle said if elected, he’ll work to help people better understand what the budget means.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095202/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-2.mp3Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones is also running for a fourth term. Chairwoman Jones said the budget is the most important duty of the board. However, Jones said planning and zoning is a close second. The commission chairwoman said smart growth will ensure Carbon County continues to be a great place to live.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095207/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-3.mp3County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett was also asked what aspect of the county government will receive the most attention if she is elected. Bartlett said all parts of the county are equally important.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095210/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-4.mp3Patterson asked if the county’s existing planning and zoning ordinances need to change. Jones said the county is already doing a good job balancing growth. Jones said the county’s conditional use permits, used to regulate large-scale industrial projects such as windfarms, are considered some of the best in the state.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095212/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-5.mp3Bartlett was asked the same question. The county clerk said she will fight to ensure that Carbon County receives its fair share of tax revenue from those industrial projects.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095214/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-6.mp3Hinkle said he remembered a time before the current planning and zoning ordinances, when the county was littered with junkyards. Hinkle said the current ordinances are tough but fair.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095216/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-7.mp3Espy said development is different across the county. What works in Hanna won’t work in the Little Snake River Valley. Espy said the planning and zoning ordinances need to take those differences into account while also limiting unchecked growth.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095218/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-8.mp3VSO member Patterson said 50% of Carbon County is owned by the federal government. In 2021, the county adopted the Natural Resources Management Plan to give the local government a say in what Washington DC wants to do with the county’s public land. Patterson asked if the plan was working.
Espy said legally, the federal government must consider the plan when doing anything in Carbon County. Espy added that the Biden administration hasn’t been following the law.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095221/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-9.mp3Jones agreed that the Biden administration has tried to ignore the Natural Resources Management Plan. Jones said as a whole, the plan has served its purpose.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095223/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-10.mp3Hinkle said the federal government hasn’t operated with the Natural Resources Management Plan in mind. However, Hinkle said without the plan, the county would have no legal recourse when Washington DC oversteps its boundaries.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095225/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-11.mp3Bartlett said the entire state relies on the Natural Resources Management Plan to protect our natural resources and she is in the process of learning more about how it works.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/11095227/0711_Commissioner-Candidates-12.mp3Time constraints prevented the commissioner candidates from taking many questions from the audience.
The post County Commissioner Candidates Met In Saratoga first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 11, 2024 |
Photo – Wyoming Cowboys logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
The big Mountain West pow-wow is happening in Las Vegas this week as teams and media members are gathered.
First order of business, Wyoming continued to garner little respect as the Cowboys were picked to finish sixth, smack dab in the middle of the 12-team conference.
Three Cowboy players were named to the Pre-season conference team.
On offense, tight end John Michael Gyllenborg and offensive guard Jack Walsh . Defensive tackle Jordan Bertagnole was named to the defensive team for the second straight season. Bertagnole, wearing Number 96 last year, started all 13 games for the Cowboys last year, finishing fifth on the team with 60 tackles.
In Las Vegas this week, Wyoming is being represented by head coach Jay Sawvel, Bertagnole and running back Harrison Waylee.
UNLV, which lost to Boise State in the MW Championship Game last season, was picked No. 2 in the preseason poll. The Broncos of Boise State, this year’s defending conference champion and preseason favorite, had seven players named to the first team.
The post Preseason Picks Put Wyoming Cowboys In Middle Of Team Conference first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 10, 2024 |
Photo – 988 Suicide Hotline logo – Courtesy Medical Xpress
Saratoga authorities released more information about the dead person found downtown last week in a parked car with out-of-county plates.
Around 1:30 pm on Tuesday, July 2nd, Saratoga police officers and medical personnel were alerted to a vehicle with an unresponsive person located on East Bridge near the Lazy River Cantina.
At the time, authorities declined to disclose any information about the dead person while their investigation unfolded.
On Tuesday afternoon, one week later, Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris issued a media release about the incident. Chief Morris confirmed the dead man’s identity as 38-year-old, Jacob Warren McNare, of Cheyenne. McNare died from a single gunshot wound. His death was ruled a suicide.
Chief Morris wrote that McNare had ties to the Platte Valley but had not lived in Saratoga for many years. The police chief did not elaborate on the circumstances surrounding McNare’s decision to end his own life or the man’s personal connection to the community here.
In his statement regarding the incident, Chief Morris stated that the family of McNare would like to bring attention to the battles that many people face with addiction, mental health, and suicide. The McNare family would like to remind people that they are not alone, and help is available.
Chief Morris recommended residents experiencing a crisis to contact local mental health providers, churches, and medical providers. Many mental health resources can be found online.
In his statement, Chief Morris wrote that the Saratoga Police Department joins with others in our community in expressing their deepest condolences to the family of Mr. McNare.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the Mental Health Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Hot Line at 988. You may also chat with a mental health professional online at 988Lifeline.org.
The post Saratoga Police Releases Information On Downtown Death first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 10, 2024 |
Photo – Mirror Lake – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Albany County Sheriff’s Department is now treating the discovery of an unidentified body at Mirror Lake, near the base of Medicine Bow Peak, on July 4th as a homicide.
The body found under a tarp in the picnic area at Mirror Lake is believed to be that of an elderly man. Few other details have been made public.
According to a statement from the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, no identifying markings were found on the body. Law enforcement agencies are waiting for more information from fingerprints, DNA and dental records in what is being called a “John Doe” case.
The body was discovered last Thursday, July 4th. Law enforcement closed the area while they investigated the scene. If you have any information regarding the discovery, you are urged to contact the Laramie Police at 307-721-2526.
The post Albany County Sheriff’s Office Treating “John Doe” Case As Homicide first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 10, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
Despite the objections of one town council member, the Saratoga governing body hired a new pool manager who lacks current lifeguard certifications.
The outdoor pool in Saratoga has been understaffed since opening at the beginning of June this year. One of the biggest complaints made by town employees and residents is the lack of a pool manager to oversee the teenage lifeguards.
On June 26th, the Saratoga town council held a special meeting specifically to hire a pool manager. Public Works Director Emery Penner, and a team of three others, created an interview board to meet with the two job applicants: Sandy Beffa and former pool manager Whisper Bunch. After questioning the candidates, Penner said the interview board recommended hiring Sandy Beffa as the new pool manager.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112423/01710_Pool-Manager-1.mp3Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked if Beffa possesses lifeguard qualifications. Penner said no, but she was certified in the past and could easily become certified again. Councilwoman Beck then asked how long Beffa will serve as the pool manager. Penner said she plans to leave town in early August.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112425/01710_Pool-Manager-2.mp3Councilwoman Beck questioned the wisdom of hiring a pool manager without lifeguard certifications. She said at least two qualified lifeguards are needed in the event of an emergency.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112428/01710_Pool-Manager-3.mp3Councilwoman Beck also pointed out the fact that Beffa is planning to leave town in early August. Public Works Director Penner admitted that the pool is unlikely to remain open after Beffa leaves.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112430/01710_Pool-Manager-4.mp3At the meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis noted that the town was actively seeking a new recreation director.
If a person was hired for that position, Mayor Davis said they could fill in as pool manager. Councilwoman Beck said by hiring Beffa, the town is guaranteeing that the pool will close in early August if they fail to find a new rec director.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112432/01710_Pool-Manager-5.mp3Saratoga’s previous recreation director, Kim Hemenway resigned in May, citing the low pay and lack of staff. At the same time, Pool Manager Whisper Bunch also tendered her resignation. No reason was given for Bunch’s departure.
Mayor Davis said Beffa is willing to get recertified as a lifeguard, but she can’t find a place to take the necessary classes.
Councilwoman Beck said by hiring Beffa, the town is purposely choosing the less qualified of the two candidates. Beck accused her fellow council members of purposely failing to reconsider former Pool Manager Whisper Bunch for the job.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112435/01710_Pool-Manager-6.mp3The reason Bunch resigned her position as pool manager is not publicly known, only being discussed by the town council during closed-door executive sessions.
Councilwoman Beck said Bunch still receives support from residents. The councilwoman said she should have been chosen over Beffa to manage the pool.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112437/01710_Pool-Manager-7.mp3Councilwoman Beck continued to accuse her fellow council members of holding a grudge against Bunch. Mayor Davis reminded Beck that she is legally unable to divulge anything discussed during an executive session.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112439/01710_Pool-Manager-8.mp3Beck encouraged her fellow council members to be more transparent about the incident that led to Bunch’s resignation. Councilman Jerry Fluty said Bunch was disrespectful to town hall staff, but the councilman was unable to elaborate further. Beck said the accusation is unproven.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112442/01710_Pool-Manager-9.mp3Councilman Fluty said he is unable to refute Beck’s claims because the matter is covered under executive session. Councilwoman Beck accused the council of judging Bunch over accusations made by one former employee. Fluty said more than one person has accused Bunch of improper conduct.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112444/01710_Pool-Manager-10.mp3Councilwoman Beck encouraged her fellow council members to give Bunch another chance at the job.
Despite the protests of Councilwoman Beck, the Saratoga town council unanimously voted to hire Sandy Beffa as pool manager.
Attendees at the June 26th special meeting said closing the pool in early August will limit the time residents can swim and do water aerobics.
The post Saratoga Hires New Outdoor Pool Manager first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 10, 2024 |
Photo – Cliff Smith with the Medicine Bow high school’s mural of the mascot – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Town officials in Medicine Bow are considering what to do with and how to display a historic mural that once held down a proud spot at high school sporting events.
In 1969, the Medicine Bow High School student body hired the town’s postmaster, Ellen Smith, to create a mural of the school’s mascot: The Medicine Bow Wrangler. The high school was closed in the late 90’s due to a lack of students.
During Monday’s Medicine Bow town council meeting, Ellen Smith’s son, Cliff Smith told the governing body that he and his brother, Toby, cut the Wrangler mural out of the school’s floor before the building was demolished. Smith said he is still in possession of the 55-year-old mural.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112403/01710_Med-Bow-Mural-1.mp3Smith explained to Bigfoot99 that in 1968, the Medicine Bow High School student body hired a person to install a tile mural of the Wrangler. However, the individual took the school’s money and disappeared.
With no other recourse available, Smith said the student body contacted his mother, Ellen, to finish the project. With the help of family and friends, Ellen painstakingly recreated the school’s mascot using eight-inch linoleum tiles.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112407/01710_Med-Bow-Mural-2.mp3The six-by-four-foot tile mural depicts a cowboy wearing a red vest, red chaps, and a large black hat. Every piece of the mural is hand cut from linoleum tile. Smith said his mother, uncle, and a family friend installed the mural in a single evening.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112410/01710_Med-Bow-Mural-3.mp3Smith said the Wrangler was treated with respect by Medicine Bow high school students. The mural needed to be saved because it is an important part of the town and his family, said Smith.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112413/01710_Med-Bow-Mural-4.mp3Smith said he and his brother, Toby, cut the mural out of the facility’s floor when the school was closing and moved the one-ton slab of concrete to his garage. Smith and his brother then fabricated a steel frame to hold the Wrangler upright.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112415/01710_Med-Bow-Mural-5.mp3Back at Monday’s Medicine Bow town council meeting, Smith said he wants to display the historic Wrangler mural in public. According to Smith, the town’s museum and community center are unable to accommodate the size and weight of the art piece.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112418/01710_Med-Bow-Mural-6.mp3Smith said the 55-year-old tile artwork is likely to contain asbestos, meaning the public will need to be prevented from touching the mural.
The town council discussed where the Wrangler could be placed. Clerk Treasurer Karen Heath suggested using the community center parking lot. However, a lighted display case of some kind will need to be constructed to house the art piece.
Smith said no matter where the Wrangler ends up, the town should collect as much information about the mural as possible.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10112421/01710_Med-Bow-Mural-7.mp3The Medicine Bow town will continue to investigate the best location to display the historic art piece.
Visit Bigfoot99.com later today to see a picture of the Medicine Bow Wrangler mural.
The post Medicine Bow Officials Discuss Where To Place Historic Mural first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 9, 2024 |
Photo – Drone photo of fire – Courtesy Sheriff Alex Bakken
A person setting off illegal fireworks likely caused the big fire in Rawlins Saturday night, Fire Chief Allen Robinson told Bigfoot 99 on Monday.
At roughly 7:30pm on Saturday, July 6th, the Rawlins Fire Department received a call about a grass fire on the hillside off Rodeo Court north of Cedar Street. Upon arriving at the scene, firefighters found that the flames had spread to the nearby salvage yard.
Fire Chief Robinson told Bigfoot99 that the fire was contained by 10:00pm on Saturday night. However, due to the large number of flammable items located in the burn area, the Chief said firefighters remained on the scene conducting mop-up operations until Sunday afternoon. Robinson said the salvage yard owner agreed to allow the remaining items to burn.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09121503/Fire-01.mp3Chief Robinson said residents can expect to see smoke coming from the area for the next couple of days.
The Rawlins fire chief said three unused structures were destroyed in the blaze. The flames also consumed a dozen old mobile homes and several repurposed train cars.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09121506/Fire-02.mp3The fire burned three properties across a four-and-a-half-acre area, with most of the damage being sustained by the salvage yard located southeast of Rodeo Court.
Chief Robinson said evidence at the scene indicates that illegal fireworks caused Saturday night’s fire.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09121509/Fire-03.mp3Chief Robinson said authorities know who likely caused the fire. However, no one has been arrested and no information about the suspect will be released at this time.
The chief added that one firefighter sustained a minor injury while battling the blaze. The individual was treated on site and remained on the scene.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09121511/Fire-04.mp3Chief Robinson said fire truck access to the south side of the fire was blocked by an electrical transmission line. The fire chief said Rocky Mountain Power shut down the entire line before his trucks arrived. After the extent of the fire was discovered, Rocky Mountain Power workers turned the electricity back on.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113033/0709_Rawlins-Fire-5-Copy.mp3Chief Robinson said he has heard claims that firefighters weren’t able to get enough water from the nearby hydrants. The fire chief said crews had plenty of water to battle the fire. The issue was that one of the hydrants broke, preventing firefighters from disconnecting their hoses until public works employees arrived on the scene to shut off the water main.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113036/0709_Rawlins-Fire-6-Copy.mp3Chief Robinson said firefighters used roughly one million gallons of water to put out the blaze.
A large fire fighting force responded to the Saturday night fire.
In all, 40 firefighters from seven different departments responded to the incident. Chief Robinson also said 14 law enforcement officers from four different agencies responded to the scene.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113039/0709_Rawlins-Fire-7-Copy.mp3The Rawlins Fire Department kept busy over the Fourth of July weekend. Chief Robinson said firefighters also responded to two smaller fires over the holiday.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113041/0709_Rawlins-Fire-8-Copy.mp3News of Saturday’s largescale fire spread quickly over social media. Residents offered to organize free meals for first responders. Chief Robinson thanked the public for their support.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113043/0709_Rawlins-Fire-9-Copy.mp3Chief Robinson also thanked all the agencies that helped fight the fire to save the nearby businesses.
Like all organizations that rely on volunteers, the Rawlins Fire Department is understaffed. Volunteers were essential to keeping the fire contained. If you would like to volunteer with the Rawlins Fire Department, call 328-4596.
The suspect identified igniting the fireworks that led to the dangerous incident may be charged, authorities say.
The post Illegal Fireworks Believed To Be Cause Of Large Fire first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 9, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga Police patch – Courtesy Saratoga Police Department
Competition for police vehicles in today’s United States is tough—certainly more rough-and-tumble than the Town of Saratoga gambled on, at least. As it turns out, the Saratoga PD missed out on a chance to purchase two used patrol vehicles at a good price.
The cars Saratoga wanted were sold to another town.
As reported by Bigfoot99, during the June 18th Saratoga town council meeting, Police Chief Mike Morris asked the governing body to allow him to buy two pre-owned Chevy Tahoe police SUVs for $82,500. The council gave Chief Morris permission to enter into negotiations with the dealership to purchase the two vehicles at the end of July, when the new fiscal budget year begins.
At last week’s Saratoga town council meeting, a disappointed Chief Morris said the dealership, located in Illinois, already sold the two SUVs. The police chief said he is unable to find any similarly priced vehicles.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113027/0709_Police-Vehicle-1-Copy.mp3Chief Morris said the dealership offered to hold the two Chevy Tahoes until the upcoming fiscal year. However, the police chief said a better offer was made and the dealership accepted. Chief Morris said he will continue to search for patrol vehicles.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113029/0709_Police-Vehicle-2-Copy.mp3Chief Morris said he was not pleased when he received the news.
In the meantime, the police chief said his current fleet of vehicles will need to be serviced. Chief Morris said he’ll try to stick to only essential repairs until he can find new patrol vehicles to purchase.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113031/0709_Police-Vehicle-3-Copy.mp3The council also expressed their disappointment over missing out on the two patrol vehicles. Chief Morris said he will continue to search for affordable pre-owned police cruisers.
The post Saratoga Misses Opportunity To Purchase Good Priced Police Vehicles first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 9, 2024 |
Photo – F16 Fighting Falcons – Courtesy Britannica
After missing last year’s Cheyenne Frontier Days, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will return to the skies above Wyoming’s capital city for this year’s “Daddy of ‘Em All.”
The F-16 fighter jet aerial demonstration team will perform over the state’s capital city on July 24 as part of the Wings over Warren Airshow prior to the start of that day’s Cheyenne Frontier Days.
The Wednesday flight of the Thunderbirds coincides with “Cheyenne Day,” a Western celebration that is treated much the same as most holidays.
Businesses shut down and the revelry gears up.
The airport at Cheyenne is open and fully functional this year, the first time since 2020.
In 2021 and 2022, the Thunderbirds used the Northern Colorado Regional Airport in Loveland to practice and stage on performance day for the airshow. Last year, one of the F-16 fighter jets conducted an emergency landing at the Loveland airport because of a hydraulic leak. The incident resulted in other F-16s involved in the high-flying air show to land at Denver International Airport rather than landing in Loveland. Last year’s unexpected incident forced the Air Force to cancel the group’s appearance in Cheyenne.
The popular event returns on the fourth Wednesday of July.
The awe-inspiring air show involves six F-16 Fighting Falcons performing precision flight drills over the skies of Cheyenne. The heart-pounding event is free to view from differing parking areas located around the Capital City.
The post US Air Force Will Fly Over Cheyenne Putting On “A Daddy Of ‘Em All” Show first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 9, 2024 |
Photo – Memorial Hospital of Carbon County – Bigfoot99 file photo
Elected officials in the county hammered home the importance of keeping Memorial Hospital in Rawlins open for business at their last meeting.
On June 18th, Memorial Hospital board members asked the commissioners to consider adding the creation of a taxpayer-funded hospital district to November’s general election ballot.
Since that time, MHCC staff have stressed the necessity of the hospital district to keep the facility open. At the July 2nd Commissioners meeting, Wyoming Business Council Board of Directors Member Pam Thayer said she supports the creation of a hospital district. Thayer said Memorial Hospital is essential to the economic growth of the county.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113010/0709_Hospital-Distrct-1-Copy.mp3Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones said a hospital district has been discussed for a long time. Chairwoman Jones also said the hospital must continue to operate, no matter what funding source is used.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113013/0709_Hospital-Distrct-2-Copy.mp3Jones said Albany County uses its hospital district to pay for maintenance and expansion of Ivinson Memorial Hospital in Laramie. The commission chairwoman suggested Memorial Hospital board members should consult with other hospital districts to determine the most efficient use of the tax money.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113016/0709_Hospital-Distrct-3-Copy.mp3Jones said Memorial Hospital of Carbon County must inform voters about the types of improvements they will see if the ballot is approved.
Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees President Rod Waeckerlin said he has heard mainly positive feedback about the hospital district. Waeckerlin said he is working to ensure everyone is presenting the same information to the public.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113018/0709_Hospital-Distrct-4-Copy.mp3Carbon County Health Officer Doctor Duane Abels spoke up in support of the proposed hospital district. Dr. Ables said people will die if Memorial Hospital closes.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113020/0709_Hospital-Distrct-5-Copy.mp3Dr. Ables said facilities like Memorial Hospital mainly treat patients without insurance. Rising healthcare prices are causing rural hospitals across the country to shut down. The county health officer said, like it not, a hospital district must be formed in order for Memorial Hospital to remain operational.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113023/0709_Hospital-Distrct-6-Copy.mp3Commissioner John Johnson said people typically don’t like the idea of new taxes. Commissioner Johnson encouraged the hospital’s board of directors to educate the public about the need for creating a tax-funded district.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/09113025/0709_Hospital-Distrct-7-Copy.mp3Memorial Hospital of Carbon County board members offered to be present at future county commissioner meetings to answer questions from the public.
The county commissioners will vote if the proposed hospital board will be added to November’s ballot during their August 6th meeting.
The post Carbon County Elected Officials Stress The Need Of Rawlins Hospital first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 9, 2024 |
Photo – Fueling a car – Bigfoot99 file photo
Average gasoline prices in Wyoming have risen 6.4 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.28 per gallon Monday, according to a survey of nearly 500 gas stations in the state.
According to Gas-Buddy.com, prices at the pump in Wyoming are unchanged versus a month ago and stand nearly 30-cents lower a gallon than last year at this time.
The lower price could be the result of election year engineering.
According to GasBuddy price reports, the lowest price in the Cowboy State on Sunday was $2.84, while the highest was $4.39, a difference of $1.55 per gallon.
The national average is up 3.7 cents per gallon from last month at this time, and stands 5.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago, according to GasBuddy data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas stations across the country.
The national average price of diesel has risen 3.6 cents in the last week and stands at $3.81 per gallon.
The post Average Gasoline Prices Up From Last Month first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 1 , 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga’s bike track – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Saratoga’s long neglected bicycle track is getting a much-needed makeover courtesy of a concerned citizen.
Saratoga resident Ben Owen and a small group of volunteers spent Friday morning refreshing the town’s bicycle track. Owen said he wants to make the track, south of the Saratoga Public Library, a better place to ride.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144128/0701_Bike-Park-1.mp3Owen presented his idea to the Saratoga town council during their June 4th meeting. He proposed having a team of volunteers perform all the work. The Saratoga town council approved of Owen’s idea, with Councilman Mike Cooley thanking Owen not asking the town to help.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144130/0701_Bike-Park-2.mp3Speaking to Bigfoot99 Friday morning, Owen said the track was built roughly 20 years ago by people who, perhaps, didn’t understand how a bike track should work. The time has come to give the kids of Saratoga a more fun place to ride their bikes, said Owen.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144132/0701_Bike-Park-3.mp3Owen said he doesn’t intend to alter the layout of the existing track very much. He’ll simply fix what’s there and create a few new jumps.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144136/0701_Bike-Park-4.mp3Owen said in the future, additional bicycle tracks can be constructed behind the library. However, Owen said he’s focused on improving the existing track at this time.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144139/0701_Bike-Park-5.mp3Owen said he expects the track improvements to be completed by the end of the day. He thanked Roger and Sondra Burau for allowing him to use their skid steer for the project.
The post Saratoga’s Bike Track Gets An Update first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 1 , 2024 |
Photo – Dean Peterson’s podcast logo – Courtesy Dean Peterson
Do you have an interesting story to share? Dean Peterson wants to know.
Peterson records his podcast, called That Doesn’t Happen Every Day, from his home in Rawlins. He has people tell stories about unusual experiences and extraordinary events on his podcast.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144141/0701_Podcast-1.mp3Peterson said he has always enjoyed long form interview programs. He started his podcast because he values firsthand accounts from insiders over merely repeating information found online.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144144/0701_Podcast-2.mp3Peterson said roughly 80% of his 40 plus podcasts feature stories that take place in Wyoming. However, Peterson said he has covered stories from other states as well, including one from his own family.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144148/0701_Podcast-3.mp3While searching for interesting stories for his podcast, Peterson said he stumbled upon a book written by Dr. Mark Miller called Big Nose George: His Troublesome Trail.
Peterson said he learned more about Wyoming Governor John Osborne, who had Big Nose George’s skin turned into shoes. The podcaster said Governor Osborne may have been involved in a plot to move the bones of Christopher Columbus.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144151/0701_Podcast-4.mp3Peterson is currently working on a three-part story about the Wyoming Frontier Prison in Rawlins. On June 10th, Peterson released the first episode focusing on the history of the Old Pen. Last week, the podcaster interviewed photographer Anne Arden McDonald, whose pictures hung in the prison museum.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144155/0701_Podcast-5.mp3Peterson said the final episode of his series about the Old Pen will feature people who worked on the low-budget horror movie, Prison. Filmed in 1987 in Rawlins, Prison features many locals and was one of the first movies to star Viggo Mortensen, perhaps best known for being in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Peterson said he would like to talk to people who were involved in the filming of Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Parts of the 1977 movie were filmed around Devil’s Tower. People Peterson spoke to about the movie felt their stories weren’t interesting, but he strongly disagrees.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144158/0701_Podcast-6.mp3Drawing from his father’s experiences during the Vietnam War, Peterson said everyone has fascinating stories to tell. The podcaster said he wants to record as many experiences as possible before they’re lost forever.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144201/0701_Podcast-7.mp3Peterson’s podcast, That Doesn’t Happen Every Day, can be found on the popular podcast hosting platform, Buzzsprout.com. Episodes cover a variety of topics from a haunted officers club in Douglas, Wyoming to an interview with Kristen Lamphere, a mortician fresh out of mortuary school.
The post Rawlins Resident Podcasts Interesting Wyoming Stories first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 1 , 2024 |
Photo – Medicine Bow town council – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Medicine Bow town council finalized the sale of equipment to the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office.
In February of this year, the governing body of Medicine Bow voted to dismantle the town’s marshal’s department. Formed in 2019 using $1 million of impact assistance funds, the Medicine Bow Marshal’s Office was not designed to last forever. The idea was to have officers supplement the impact assistance money by issuing citations.
Despite the efforts of the marshals, the department was left with only $200,000 left in its account. The town council decided to close the department and use the remaining money for other projects.
With the marshal’s department now permanently closed, Medicine Bow no longer needs any of the law enforcement equipment. In May, Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken expressed interest in purchasing three rifles and three patrol vehicles from the town. Medicine Bow Mayor Justin George offered to sell the guns and cars to the sheriff for $100,000.
Sheriff Bakken countered Mayor George’s proposal by offering $85,000 in cash or $55,000 with a one-year memorandum of understanding for a sheriff’s deputy to patrol the town 30 hours a month. The Medicine Bow town council voted to accept the lower cash payment with the included MOU.
During the June 10th Medicine Town council meeting, Mayor George said both sides have agreed to the sale.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144204/0701_Sheriff-Sale-1.mp3Mayor George said Town Attorney Cameron Smith read the memorandum of understanding, suggested some changes, and sent the agreement back to Carbon County Attorney Ashley Davis for review. The mayor said the sale will be finalized once Attorney Davis agrees to the changes.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144208/0701_Sheriff-Sale-2.mp3Mayor George said Sheriff Bakken will provide the legally required permits to transfer ownership of the guns from the town to the sheriff’s department.
The remaining firearms will be consigned with Koyoty Sports in Saratoga. Mayor George said the town will also put two 1,000-gallon fuel tanks up for sale.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144212/0701_Sheriff-Sale-3.mp3Town Clerk and Treasurer Karen Heath said the public works department will take anything of use out of the former marshal’s department. Clerk Heath asked Mayor George how he would like to dispose of what’s left.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08144215/0701_Sheriff-Sale-4.mp3Mayor George said he’ll wait until after the useful equipment has been removed from the marshal’s department before deciding what to do with the remaining items.
The post Medicine Bow Officials and Sheriff Agree To Terms Of Sale first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 1 , 2024 |
Photo – Chief Justice John Roberts – Courtesy Biography
“Chevron is overruled,” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote for the majority in Friday’s Supreme Court ruling that rocked the entrenched administrative state in Washington, D.C.
The original 1984 Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council ruling required the East Coast herring industry to bear the costs of hauling environmental observers on fishing boats.
The High Court’s decision rolled back the longstanding legal doctrine that gave unchecked power to federal agencies and allowed for the growth of a radical administrative state at odds with industry workers. The ruling means that courts, not federal bureaucrats, will decide the complicated and often ambiguous statutes passed by Congress.
Justice Roberts summarized the decision, saying “Courts must exercise their independent judgment in deciding whether an agency has acted within its statutory authority.”
Wyoming’s top officials from Cheyenne to Washington praised the decision as a federal yoke being lifted off the shoulders of states.
Liberals who favor big government, like the staff at the news media organization Politico, said the decision will “hobble presidents pursuing aggressive policies on anything from abortion to student debt relief.”
U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis applauded the decision.
Barrasso called the Supreme Court ruling “a major victory for getting Washington out of Wyoming. Unelected bureaucrats, Barrasso said, “ballooned the size of government and imposed on us a costly maze of burdensome political regulations.”
Barrasso said the ruling puts power back into the hands of the American people.
Senator Lummis, in a statement on X, said this puts decision-making powers back into the hands of state and away from “unelected and unaccountable federal bureaucrats.” Lummis said, “For years, the people of Wyoming have been forced to endure the consequences of an unchecked Biden administration and its heavy-handed regulations, and they have had enough.”
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon was cautiously enthusiastic. In Cheyenne, the governor called the decision a victory for common-sense regulatory reform. “For years, unelected bureaucrats running federal agencies in Washington D.C. have used “deference” as an excuse to target certain industries based on politics. Wyoming has experienced that firsthand,” Gordon said. “Limiting their power to overreach is cause for celebration, and this ruling begins that process.”
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray said the “ruling is a huge win for the people of Wyoming. The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Chevron is a major blow to the Biden Administration’s radical attempts to destroy Wyoming’s core industries through its unprecedented federal overreach.”
Liberals in league with the Biden Administration worry the decision will cripple efforts to remove student debt using COVID-related emergency powers. Also thrown in doubts are Democrat efforts to shut down coal plants.
Thousands of federal regulations regarding health care in the U.S., including Medicare and Medicaid, may also be put to new scrutiny with the High Court’s decision to remove federal bureaucrats in the unelected administrative state from making final decisions.
The post Supreme Court Ruling Ousts Federal Agencies From Interpreting Laws first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 8, 2024 |
Photo – Flames and smoke – Courtesy Mark Fanning
Few details have been made available by city officials in Rawlins about a major fire in an industrial section of the city Saturday night.
The wildland fire produced a large column of black smoke that winds pushed south across Cedar Streets starting around 7:30 Saturday evening. The fire appears to have started in a lot near Rodeo Court, burning outbuildings and abandoned vehicles located there.
High winds blew the flames south across Cedar Street, past the two car dealerships located there. The spot fire south of Cedar was extinguished quickly.
According to a post from the Rawlins Police Department, crews established a perimeter around the fire by 10 p.m. on Saturday night. Crews remained on the scene throughout the night controlling hot spots.
According to the statement from the RPD, one firefighter sustained a minor injury. No civilians were harmed.
The cause of the fire has not been determined.
A number of departments responded to the incident, including Bureau of Land Management Fire, as well as crews from Carbon County, Sinclair Refinery and the Towns of Elk Mountain, Sinclair, and Wamsutter.
Power, which was cut to the affected area during the fire, was restored.
No primary structures were impacted by the fire.
The post Large Fire In Rawlins Demands Use Of Multiple Fire Departments first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 8, 2024 |
Photo – Downtown Saratoga – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga police are investigating a potential suicide that occurred on East Bridge Avenue last week.
Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris said on Tuesday afternoon, multiple reports of an unresponsive person inside of a vehicle were received by his department. The vehicle was located outside of the Lazy River Cantina on East Bridge Avenue.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08114725/0708_Saratoga-Suicide-1.mp3Chief Morris confirmed that the person is not a Carbon County resident and that suicide is being investigated as the cause of death. However, the police chief would not disclose any additional information, such as the person’s sex or date of birth.
At 1:49 on Tuesday afternoon, the Lazy River Cantina’s Facebook page posted that it would be opening late due to a “medical situation” that occurred in front of the restaurant. Three hours later, at 4:50pm, a second message was posted saying that the restaurant was open for business.
Chief Morris asked for anyone with information about the incident to contact the Saratoga Police Department at 326-8316.
The post Subject Found Deceased In Parked Car In Downtown Saratoga first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 8, 2024 |
Photo – Mirror Lake – Courtesy US Forest Service
The Albany County Sheriff’s Office reported finding a dead body near Mirror Lake on Thursday evening, July 4th.
The area around the lake was closed to visitors on Friday while investigators conducted their work.
The Albany County Sheriff’s Department reported Friday that there is no immediate threat to the public.
“There is no confirmed information about the deceased, and they remain unidentified currently,” a sheriff’s department Faceobook post reported. “Cause and manner of death is currently being investigated.”
The investigation is being conducted by the Sheriff’s Office with help from the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Crime Scene Unit.
The post Unidentified Body Found At Mirror Lake first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 8, 2024 |
Photo – Angi Bruce – Courtesy Farm Progress
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is under new leadership. Governor Mark Gordon appointed Angi Bruce as Director of Wyoming Game and Fish Department. She becomes the first female director in the agency’s 51-year history, replacing Brian Nesvick, who will retire in September.
Bruce is the first woman to lead Wyoming Game and Fish.
Bruce served as Deputy Director of the agency since 2019. During the last five years, she oversaw fish and wildlife issues among her other duties. She has also served as Habitat Protection Supervisor with Game and Fish, where she oversaw wildlife Environmental Reviews for the Director’s office and administered the state’s sage grouse Executive Order review process. Bruce previously spent 17 years with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources in multiple capacities.
Governor Gordon said in statement that “in her role as Deputy Director, Angi has demonstrated the department’s dedication to protecting our state’s leadership role in science and policy on wildlife issues large and small.”
Bruce responded to the appointment, saying “The job will not be short of challenges. Utilizing our citizens’ shared love of wildlife, I have no doubt we can be successful in tackling them together.”
Nesvik joined the Game and Fish Department as a game warden in 1995 and also served as a regional wildlife supervisor, district game warden and chief game warden prior to being appointed as director by Gov. Mark Gordon in 2019.
The post Wyoming Game and Fish Has New Director first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 8, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins FEMA flood map – Courtesy City of Rawlins web page
Rawlins city officials are still planning to fight the federal government’s new flood plain maps.
In 2016, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, began the process of updating flood plain maps across the country. The maps allege to show properties that are vulnerable to a once in a century flood. Landowners in the flood plain must purchase flood insurance or be barred from receiving certain types of federal disaster assistance.
During Tuesday’s Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Tom Sarvey said preliminary data presented by FEMA in 2020 showed more properties in the flood plain. Sarvey said at that time, the city chose not to dispute the federal agency’s findings.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102832/0708_Rawlins-Flood-Map-1.mp3Two years later, in 2022, FEMA began rolling out its finalized flood plain maps. Sarvey said a letter recently sent to Rawlins by the federal agency demands residents purchase flood insurance before December.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102835/0708_Rawlins-Flood-Map-2.mp3Sarvey said he has doubts about the accuracy of FEMA’s flood plain maps. The city manager said he doesn’t believe the federal agency considered past flood mitigation efforts made on the south side of the city.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102838/0708_Rawlins-Flood-Map-3.mp3Sarvey said FEMA identified where Sugar Creek flows through Hogback Reservoir as a risk factor for the south side of the city. Sarvey said FEMA doesn’t believe that the existing retaining wall will prevent a once in a century flood from affecting the area.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102840/0708_Rawlins-Flood-Map-4.mp3Sarvey said FEMA also mentioned a lack of diversion methods to prevent flood water from reaching the south side of Interstate 80. Sarvey disputed the federal government’s claims, saying the south side of Rawlins is well protected against flooding.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102842/0708_Rawlins-Flood-Map-5.mp3Sarvey said the city has only one recourse against FEMA: a Letter of Map Adjustment, or LOMA, asking the federal agency to reconsider its findings. The city manager said he hired Engineering Associates to investigate existing flood mitigation infrastructure. Sarvey said the consulting firm has already completed a preliminary survey of Hogback Reservoir. However, Sarvey said the Sugar Creek retaining wall is on private property, meaning the city must obtain an easement to allow further exploration.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102845/0708_Rawlins-Flood-Map-6.mp3As of Tuesday’s city council meeting, Sarvey said he had not received the easement required for Engineering Associates to access the retaining wall. The city manager said the consulting firm is asking him to pay the property owner for the easement.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102847/0708_Rawlins-Flood-Map-7.mp3Sarvey said he reached out to land appraisers, but hasn’t gotten a call back yet. Once he receives the appraisal, the city manager said he’ll bring a potential easement agreement to the council for approval.
Even if the city files a Letter of Map Amendment before December, Sarvey said FEMA has indicated that it will not issue a ruling until after the new maps are put into effect.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102849/0708_Rawlins-Flood-Map-8.mp3Sarvey said the new flood maps also came with demands from FEMA. The city manager said the federal agency requires the city to legally accept its findings and require residents to purchase flood insurance. Sarvey said he’ll present FEMA’s recommended changes to the council at a future meeting.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102851/0708_Rawlins-Flood-Map-9.mp3Vice Mayor Steve Sanger asked Sarvey if residents will need to buy flood insurance if the Letter of Map Amendment is accepted. Sarvey said residents must have flood insurance by December. However, if the LOMA is approved, they may cancel their coverage.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102853/0708_Rawlins-Flood-Map-10.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum said he believes that if a resident purchases flood insurance through the federal government, they will receive a full refund if the LOMA is accepted.
Sarvey said he is focused on obtaining the easement to allow Engineering Associates to investigate the Sugar Creek retaining wall. The city manager said he will present the agreement and FEMA’s required ordinance changes at a future council meeting.
The post Rawlins Officials Disagree With FEMA’s Flood Map first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
July 8, 2024 |
Photo – Departmental Lifesaving Medal and Deputy Joel Robertson with his medal – Courtesy Sheriff Bakken
The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office recognized deputies and community members who made a positive impact on the department.
At last week’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Sheriff Alex Bakken announced the creation of the Sheriff’s Posse award. Sheriff Bakken explained that the award is given to people who have helped the sheriff’s department make the county safer.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102858/0708_Sheriff-Awards-1.mp3Sheriff Bakken presented the first Sheriff’s Posse Award to the superintendents of Carbon County school districts one and two: Mike Hamel and Darrin Jennings. Because Superintendent Hamel was unable to attend Tuesday’s meeting, Carbon County School District Number One Director of Human Services Tanya Wall accepted the Sheriff’s Posse Award on his behalf.
Sheriff Bakken said both superintendents were instrumental in the creation of the first school resource officer program in Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102901/0708_Sheriff-Awards-2.mp3Next, Sheriff Bakken announced the winner of the Employee of the First Quarter for 2024: Deputy Tyler Christen. The sheriff praised Deputy Christen’s proactive attitude.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102904/0708_Sheriff-Awards-3.mp3Finally, at last week’s commissioner meeting, Sheriff Bakken announced the creation of a new award: the Departmental Lifesaving Medal. The sheriff explained that on the morning of June 25th, 2024, Deputy Joel Robertson was the first to arrive to an ambulance call for an unresponsive individual. Sheriff Bakken said because of Deputy Robertson’s actions, the person survived.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/08102907/0708_Sheriff-Awards-4.mp3The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office Departmental Lifesaving Medal consists of a blue Maltese cross with the Wyoming state seal in the center.
The post Sheriff’s Office Recognizes Those Who Have Positive Impact On Department first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 28, 2024 |
Photo – Collapsed highway near Jackson Hole – Bigfoot99 file photo
Teton Pass in western Wyoming is on track to reopen today, less than a month after a bend in the roadway slid off in a landslide on June 7th.
No one was injured in the slide, but the 8,431 foot pass that commuters in Idaho to their jobs in Jackson Hole has been impassable.
The road is expected to open today to all traffic, including semi-trucks weighing up to 60,000 lbs. a 20 mph speed limit will be in place through the detour.
Keith Fulton described the slow down point as “better than a big detour.”
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon thanked all who helped in the monumental task to rebuild the pass so quickly
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112437/0628_Gov-Gordon_Teton-Pass.mp3Since the slide, daily commuters from nearby Victor, Idaho have had to drive an extra 62 miles to their usual 24-mile ride over the pass to work in Jackson. The detour added four of five hours to some commutes round trip.
The new section has an 11.5% grade, steeper than the old road’s 10%.
WYDOT engineers expressed confidence this week with the detour that was built so quickly to accommodate the daily commuters.
Engineers said the saturated embankment and saturated soils contributed to the failure. The roadway over the pass originally built in the 1970s.
Permanent reconstruction will likely cost $30 million or more with most of the tab picked up by Washington, D.C.
Crews have been working 24/7 for the last three weeks to build the detour and get traffic rolling for the busy tourist season in Jackson.
The detour road is to open midday Friday around the Big Fill landslide at milepost 12.8.
The post Teton Pass On Track To Reopen Today After June 7th Landslide first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 28, 2024 |
Photo – Seminoe Reservoir canyon to the dam – Bigfoot99 file photo
A Utah-based energy development company hosted a presentation this week to explain a proposed electrical storage project at the Seminoe Reservoir. Wednesday afternoon, in the Parco Sinclair Theater, representatives from rPlus Energies talked about the proposed Seminoe Pumped Storage Project.
The presentation was the first in a series of public meetings required by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s permitting process.
rPlus Energies Chief of Staff Theresa Foxley said a pumped storage facility acts like a giant water battery. When electricity is abundant, water is pumped from a low lying lake into a higher reservoir. Foxley said when energy demands outpace production, the water is allowed to flow downhill through an electrical turbine, generating electricity.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112442/0628_Pump-Storage-1.mp3Foxley said the country’s hunger for electricity is growing. The proposed pumped storage facility at Seminoe will add reliable energy production methods for the power line from Wyoming to Washington, which will be energized by less reliable sources, such as wind and solar.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112448/0628_Pump-Storage-2.mp3Foxley said a well-maintained pump storage system can remain operational for 100 years or more.
rPlus Energies Program Manager Lars Dorr said the Seminoe Reservoir has long been considered one of the best sites in the state for a pumped energy storage facility. Dorr said the existing reservoir means his company will only need to construct the upper lake to house the stored water.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112454/0628_Pump-Storage-3.mp3The proposed pumped storage site is northeast of the Seminoe Reservoir. Large underground tunnels will move the water from the reservoir to and from a newly constructed higher lake. Dorr said the benefit of the project is that most of the facility will be located underground.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112459/0628_Pump-Storage-4.mp3The hydroelectric powerhouse will also be located underground, approximately halfway between the existing reservoir and the proposed upper lake. Roughly 29 miles of electrical transmission lines will take the energy produced by the facility to the Aeolus substation, north of Medicine Bow.
Dorr said the project is expected to generate 900 megawatts of electricity over the course of 10 hours.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112506/0628_Pump-Storage-5.mp3Dorr said the proposed upper reservoir will be roughly one percent the size of the existing Seminoe Reservoir. When water is released from the upper lake, it will drop 1,000 feet through a 30-foot-wide pipe, spinning a turbine and generating electricity for roughly 10 to 12 hours. The program manager said when the facility is operating, the water level of the Seminoe Reservoir will change by 6 to 18 inches.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112512/0628_Pump-Storage-6.mp3Dorr said the project is estimated to cost between $2.5 and $3.5 billion. Over the course of the project’s five-year construction timeline, Dorr said rPlus Energies will employ 200 people and contribute up to $7 million a year in sales tax to Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112517/0628_Pump-Storage-7.mp3After construction is complete, Dorr said rPlus Energies will hire 31 full-time employees and generate up to $9 million in property taxes.
rPlus Energies Deputy General Counsel Kevin Baker said the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission permitting process for the pumped storage project began in January of 2023. Baker said the federal government demands expensive and time consuming environmental and safety studies be performed before any work can begin.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112521/0628_Pump-Storage-8.mp3Baker said nearly all the required studies have been submitted and rPlus is waiting for final licensing approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
By December of this year, Baker said he expects to begin the National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA, review, where members of the public can weigh in on the project.
Once all the information from the NEPA review is gathered, Baker said the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will create a draft environmental impact statement. After another round of public meetings, Baker said the federal government will issue their final decision on the project. The rPlus Energies attorney said he expects construction to begin in June of 2026.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112528/0628_Pump-Storage-9.mp3Program Manager Dorr was asked what impact the proposed pumped storage project will have on trout fishing in the Miracle Mile. Dorr said preliminary studies indicate that the storage facility will have little to no impact on the local fish population.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112534/0628_Pump-Storage-10.mp3The Seminoe Pumped Storage Project is still early in development. The rPlus Energies representatives were unable to say exactly who will purchase energy produced at the facility and how much that energy will cost. They were also unclear about how workers will get to the site during the winter.
More public meetings will be held before the project is given the green light to begin construction.
The post Utah Company Explains Proposed Seminoe Reservoir Electrical Storage Project first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 28, 2024 |
Photo – Buck’s Sports Grill – Courtesy – buckssportsgrill.com
A Rawlins restaurant lost its liquor license after two minors were served alcohol by employees at the bar.
On Tuesday, May 28th, Rawlins Police Sergeant Christopher Craig received a call that workers at Bucks Sports Bar and Grill, located on Cedar Street, had served two minors alcohol. One, a 17-year-old child, allegedly drank so much that they needed to be taken to Memorial Hospital of Carbon County for treatment.
Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward said following Sergeant Craig’s investigation, four Bucks Sports Bar employees, two adults and two minors, were charged with alcohol related offences.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112410/0628_Bucks-Bar-1.mp3The names of the two juveniles are being withheld, but both were charged with minor-in-possession of alcohol. The two adults charged in the incident, Thomas Gile and Cannen Marquez, were cited for contributing alcohol to a minor. All charges are misdemeanors.
In the police report, provided to Bigfoot99 by the Rawlins City Attorney’s office, Sergeant Craig writes that the mother of one of the minors reported the incident to the police after her 17-year-old child came home from Bucks Sports Bar and Grill so drunk that they were apparently foaming at the mouth. The child was taken to Memorial Hospital where they made a full recovery.
The incident caused the Rawlins city council to revoke the restaurant’s liquor license during their June 18th meeting.
The city council met again on Wednesday evening specifically to discuss the restaurant’s liquor license. Bucks owner Shawn Dahl, who was not present during the incident, told the council that losing his liquor license has hurt his business.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112417/0628_Bucks-Bar-2.mp3Dahl admitted that he made a mistake by not having a trustworthy supervisor on duty while he wasn’t present. The restaurant owner said he is working on a way to prevent a similar incident from occurring in the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112423/0628_Bucks-Bar-3.mp3Dahl said he fired the employees responsible for the incident and selected a longtime employee to act as a shift supervisor.
Following Dahl’s testimony, the city council went into executive session to discuss the matter. After the meeting was called back to order, Councilwoman Jacquelin Wells motioned to reinstate Bucks Sports Bar and Grill’s liquor license contingent upon every employee who serves alcohol undergoing Training for Intervention Procedures, or TIPS. The TIPS program is designed to provide servers with the skills to recognize intoxication and prevent drunk driving and underage drinking. Rawlins city ordinance requires that everyone who serves alcohol must be TIPS trained within four months of being hired.
Councilman Darril Garner accused Dahl of failing to ensure his employees were TIPS trained within the required timeframe. Councilman Garner asked for a more severe punishment.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112432/0628_Bucks-Bar-4.mp3Councilman Garner asked Dahl why his employees were not properly TIPS trained. The restaurant owner said high employee turnover caused him to lose track of who had and had not undergone the training.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112352/0627_Bucks-Bar-5.mp3Despite Garner’s objection, he and the entire city council voted to reinstate Bucks Sports Bar and Grill’s liquor license with the condition that all servers become TIPS trained. Until that time, no alcohol can be served at the restaurant.
TIPS training is performed by the Rawlins Police Department four times a year. Chief Ward said he is working to get Dahl’s employees the required training as soon as possible.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/28112404/0627_Bucks-Bar-6.mp3Dahl promised the council that he will comply with their ruling and that a similar incident will never happen again.
The post Local Sports Grill Loses Liquor License For Violation first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 27, 2024 |
Photo – Fire training – Courtesy CC Fire Protection District
The Carbon County Fire Protection District will begin responding to fires starting on Monday, July 1.
In 2022, Carbon County residents voted to create a taxpayer funded fire protection district to cover for all unincorporated parts of the county.
As reported by Bigfoot99, creating a brand-new governmental agency from scratch has been a slow process. With the July 1st operational date quickly approaching, Fire District Interim Chief John Rutherford said the district will be ready.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111408/0627_Fire-District-1.mp3During their June 18th meeting, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners signed all remaining county-owned firefighting equipment over to the fire protection district. Rutherford said the lengthy fire district creation process is nearly finished.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111419/0627_Fire-District-2.mp3However, the fire protection district still requires signed contracts from all Carbon County municipalities allowing it to use town-owned equipment to respond to out-of-town emergencies. Rutherford said he isn’t expecting any problems getting the agreements signed because the district intends to operate similarly to the county fire department it is replacing.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111425/0627_Fire-District-3.mp3The Carbon County Fire Protection District is funded through a 3-mil levy. Rutherford said money generated through the property tax will allow the district to purchase new and better equipment. The interim fire chief said the district will also incorporate new ideas for fighting and preventing fires.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111431/0627_Fire-District-4.mp3Rutherford said nationally, firefighting services are focusing their efforts away from simply fighting fires and toward preventing fires all together. The interim fire chief said educating the public about fire safety has played a big part in preventing fires. However, Rutherford credited stricter building codes for the greatest decrease in fire-related damage.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111438/0627_Fire-District-5.mp3The last hurdle facing the fire protection district is obtaining agreements with all the municipalities. Rutherford explained how a mutual aid agreement between the remote towns of Baggs and Medicine Bow will benefit everyone.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111444/0627_Fire-District-6.mp3Rutherford said the fire protection district has a second type of contract available to certain towns.
Using the town of Hanna as an example, Rutherford said municipalities with existing county-owned fire departments may choose to pay the district for fire coverage.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111450/0627_Fire-District-7.mp3So far, the governing body of Elk Mountain has resisted the county’s attempts to incorporate the small town’s firefighters and equipment into the fire protection district. Rutherford said he understands that the Elk Mountain Fire Department doesn’t want to give up any of its autonomy. However, Rutherford said he is confident that Elk Mountain and fire district attorneys can come up with a contract agreeable to both parties.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111456/0627_Fire-District-8.mp3Rutherford said the Elk Mountain Fire Department’s proximity to Interstate 80 will significantly lower the fire protection district’s response time to highway emergencies.
Rutherford said the no matter how municipalities feel about the fire protection district, the board is doing everything it can to improve firefighting services for the entire county.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111501/0627_Fire-District-9.mp3Rutherford said by creating the taxpayer funded fire protection district, the county no longer needs to find money in the yearly budget to pay for firefighting services.
The interim fire chief said the Carbon County Fire Protection District will be ready to start responding to fires on Monday.
The post Fire Protection District Will Start Responding To Fire Calls On July 1st first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 27, 2024 |
Photo – Lead pipe test image – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The City of Rawlins is asking residents to take part in an EPA required water line study. Testing the water line in your home for lead is important for all residents.
On Tuesday, Rawlins officials released a statement requesting everyone to fill out an Environmental Protection Agency survey. The media release states that the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule requires the city to check the entire community for the presence of lead in service lines.
Water & Wastewater Superintendent Bud Dimick is asking residents to identify the type of water line they have running into their homes. Dimick said by voluntarily completing the EPA mandated survey, people are helping the city and protecting yourself and your loved ones.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111508/0627_Lead-Line-Study-1.mp3Dimick said the EPA study is meant to test your water line for lead. The federal government’s plan is to eventually remove all dangerous lead from the country’s water supply.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111513/0627_Lead-Line-Study-2.mp3Lead exposure can cause serious health problems, including developmental delays in children and memory loss in adults.
Dimick said the city still uses a small number of lead pipes to transport water. However, the water superintendent said testing has never showed elevated lead levels in the city’s drinking water. Despite what past testing has shown, Dimick said the federal government is still demanding to know what homes contain lead fixtures. Complying with the survey will save the city a lot of trouble, said Dimick.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111520/0627_Lead-Line-Study-3.mp3Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller said the Environmental Protection Agency will not force residents to remove any lead pipes discovered during the survey. Miller said the data will be used by the EPA to formulate a strategy to address lead pipes in the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111525/0627_Lead-Line-Study-4.mp3Water Superintendent Bud Dimick explained how to participate in the EPA mandated study. Dimick said residents should begin by locating the water line running into their homes.
After locating the line, check to see if a magnet sticks to the pipe. Dimick asked residents to scratch the pipe with a hard object, like a coin, and send a picture of the scratched area to the city.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111532/0627_Lead-Line-Study-5.mp3The city has created a website and mailers informing residents about the survey. Public Information Officer Miller said residents will be asked for their address, water provider, the year their home was built, and contact information. Miller said the survey is easy to understand and complete.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111537/0627_Lead-Line-Study-6.mp3Miller said the survey will be included with residents’ upcoming water bills. The public information officer said people can simply drop off the completed survey when they pay their bill.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111541/0627_Lead-Line-Study-7.mp3Treatment Plant Operator Stevie Osborn said the city is working with local plumbers to help residents complete the survey when called for service.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111547/0627_Lead-Line-Study-8.mp3The city’s Public Information Officer, Miller, said the city is offering to help residents who are unable to locate their water lines on their own. However, Miller said public works employees may be slow in responding to requests.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111554/0627_Lead-Line-Study-9.mp3The City of Rawlins has until October 16th to complete the EPA mandated water service line inventory. To encourage participation, all surveys completed by July 31st will be entered to win a 35-quart Yeti brand cooler.
Flyers with a QR code to the survey can be found in city buildings and will be included with residents’ upcoming water bills. Bigfoot99 will also include a link to the online version of the survey when this story is posted to our website later today.
Rawlins Lead Service Line Survey: https://www.wyriskit.com/
The post City Of Rawlins Requests Residents To Fill Out Survey For EPA first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 27, 2024 |
Photo – Memorial Hospital of Carbon County – Bigfoot99 file photo
Memorial Hospital of Carbon County held a bimonthly business breakfast meeting Wednesday. A few members of the public and Hospital staff gathered in the hospital’s cafeteria to discuss the status of the medical facility.
The sparsely attended meeting began with a discussion about the proposed taxpayer funded hospital district. During the June 18th Carbon County Commissioners meeting, hospital board members requested a 3-mil levy hospital district be included on the 2024 general election ballot. The property tax increase is anticipated to bring an additional $1.5 million a year to the cash-strapped hospital.
Without the healthcare district, Memorial Hospital of Carbon County may be forced to permanently shut its doors.
At yesterday’s meeting, Interim Chief Executive Officer Gerald Parton said rural hospitals are going out of business across the country. Parton said if Memorial Hospital was forced to close, the result would have a detrimental impact all across Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111558/0627_MHCC-Breakfast-1.mp3County commissioners will decide if the hospital district will be added to the upcoming ballot during their August 6th meeting. Certain members of the board have indicated that the measure should be decided on by the residents of Carbon County, meaning it is likely to be on November’s ballot.
The hospital’s Director of Strategic Operations Stephanie Hinkle said she’ll work until the November elections educating the public about the need for the hospital district. Hinkle asked for members of the community to help spread the word.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111603/0627_MHCC-Breakfast-2.mp3Hinkle explained that the proposed hospital district will exclude areas of Carbon County that are already covered by other medical services. The strategic director said voters outside of Rawlins, Sinclair, and Hanna are less likely to approve of the hospital district.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111609/0627_MHCC-Breakfast-3.mp3Information provided by the hospital shows that the proposed healthcare district will add an additional $28 to $142 a year to property taxes, based on the value of a home.
Hinkle said she expects Memorial Hospital to receive $1.5 million a year in taxes. However, County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett said the hospital is unlikely to see any taxpayer money before the middle of 2026.
Hinkle said voters need to consider what will happen if Memorial Hospital is forced to close when they cast their November ballots.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111614/0627_MHCC-Breakfast-4.mp3In the meantime, Memorial Hospital must increase the revenue it receives from patient care. To meet that goal, Felicia Kimball, with over 25 years of medical billing experience, was brought on to oversee the hospital’s finances. Kimball said the Colorado-based collections agency, Revenue Enterprise, is making progress on getting patients to pay their overdue medical bills.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111619/0627_MHCC-Breakfast-5.mp3Kimball said she is working to send out bills sooner, make it easier for patients to pay over the phone, and improve patient access to financial assistance information.
Despite its ongoing financial problems, Strategic Director Hinkle said Memorial Hospital will continue to offer free school physicals for Carbon County students. Hinkle said community events are an important part of the hospital’s mission.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/27111623/0627_MHCC-Breakfast-6.mp3Yesterday’s Memorial Hospital of Carbon County business breakfast brought to light the challenges facing the medical facility as well as some solutions hospital staff are proposing. However, it appears that the fate of Memorial Hospital is tied to the creation of the proposed hospital district.
Visit Bigfoot99.com later today to see the property tax calculator provided by the hospital.
The post MHCC Holds Bimonthly Business Breakfast At Cafeteria first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 26, 2024 |
Photo – Epoxy paint applicator – Courtesy roadsbridges.com
Drivers in southern Wyoming who are in a hurry to get somewhere headed into the final weekend of June my face travel delays across southeast Wyoming.
Road crews are placing epoxy striping in various locations around the district starting this week, weather permitting.
Epoxy striping is more durable than traditional striping, especially in high-traffic areas.
The highway work will occur along Interstate 80 in Laramie, Albany, and Carbon Counties, as well as I-25 in the Cheyenne area.
Motorists can expect reduced speed zones and slow-moving striping equipment in the work areas. Motorists are encouraged to obey all traffic control and slow down around work zones. Avoid passing heavy equipment where epoxy is still wet, as it can be hard to remove if it gets on a vehicle. Cones will be in place to help indicate where epoxy may still be wet.
Stay alert for work zones along your travels and plan to give yourself a little extra time to reach your destination.
The post Southern Wyoming Traffic May Be Delayed By Striping first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 26, 2024 |
Photo – SEC logo – Courtesy sec.gov
In Washington, D.C., the Wyoming Congressional Delegation is pushing back against a climate change rule released earlier this year by the federal Securities and Exchange Commission.
Since 1934 and the Great Depression, the SEC has followed a mission of protecting investors, maintaining fair, orderly, and competitive markets and facilitating capital formation. Under the Joe Biden Administration, SEC veered into radical environmentalism this year.
On March 6, 2024, the SEC finalized a rule mandating climate-related disclosures from publicly traded companies. The new Climate Rule mandates that public companies must report on whether they have implemented corporate policies to prioritize climate change concerns within the company.
The SEC claims the Climate Rule is necessary for investors who care about climate-change issues.
The Texas Alliance of Energy Producers sued the SEC, and requested the court vacate the federal agency’s radical climate rule.
Wyoming’s congressional delegation supports the lawsuit saying the climate rule will be disastrous for energy producers in the Cowboy State who would face a mountain of red tape to meet these “unrealistic disclosure requirements.”
Economic growth will also be stymied by the rule.
The court brief reads, “The SEC, as a securities regulator, is not empowered to impose sweeping climate-related regulations on publicly traded companies. It continues, “The SEC’s overreach into climate regulation violates the separation of powers and the major questions doctrine, warranting the rule’s invalidation.”
The lawsuit by Texas challenges what the state characterizes as the SEC’s “illegal rule making.” Requiring companies to disclose all the ways they think and talk about climate change within their walls is beyond the SEC’s mission of protecting investors from fraud, the lawsuit contends.
The new Biden Administration rule also will lead to higher costs in gasoline for your car as the overhead costs for petroleum companies increase.
Under the new rule, the SEC mandates that companies must tell the world whether they have institutionalized climate change risk management strategies or admit that they are not making climate change a priority concern—regardless of whether there is any reason to believe that climate change risks pose any actual material risk to investors.
The SEC claims the Climate Rule is necessary for investors who care about climate-change issues.
The Texas Alliance Energy Producers contend that the disclosure requirements serve no investment purposes. Instead, the agency created the rule as a weapon to publicly shame companies that don’t step into line with the Biden Administration’s approach to climate change.
The producers, as well as Wyoming’s congressional delegation, contend that the SEC’s rulemaking is unlawful.
The post SEC Establishes Climate Rule Many Think Will Be Disastrous first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 26, 2024 |
Photo – Chief Mike Morris with new Durango – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
The Saratoga Police Department is requesting authorization to purchase two new patrol vehicles.
Last August, the Saratoga Police Department bought a pre-owned 2020 All-Wheel-Drive Special Service Dodge Durango. The SUV was purchased from an Illinois dealership specializing in second-hand government vehicles.
During the June 18th Saratoga town council meeting, Police Chief Mike Morris said he needs more patrol vehicles. Chief Morris said he found a comparable dealership selling two used Chevy Tahoe patrol SUVs.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100733/0626_SPD-Vehicles-1.mp3Chief Morris said the two Chevy Tahoes come equipped with most of the equipment he needs. The police chief said the two four-year-old vehicles have 37,000 and 29,000 miles on their odometers, respectively.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100736/0626_SPD-Vehicles-2.mp3Chief Morris asked the council to allow him to open negotiations with the dealership to purchase the two patrol vehicles. The chief said the price is listed at $82,500 for both Chevy’s. Chief Morris said he already has the money set aside in the upcoming fiscal year budget.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100738/0626_SPD-Vehicles-3.mp3Councilman Bub Barkhurst asked Chief Morris how much more money it will cost to outfit the two SUVs with any needed equipment. The police chief said the listed price covers everything except for gun racks and spotlights. Chief Morris said he already has all the additional equipment on hand.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100740/0626_SPD-Vehicles-4.mp3Chief Morris said both vehicles have a little time left on their 5-year 50,000-mile factory warranties.
During a previous town council meeting, Chief Morris informed the governing body that several of his current patrol vehicles needed service, including an existing Chevy Tahoe.
At the June 18th meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis asked if the Tahoe had more problems than the other vehicles. Chief Morris said the Chevy needed engine repairs, but the work was done under warranty.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100742/0626_SPD-Vehicles-5.mp3Councilman Barkhurst asked Chief Morris if he personally preferred the Dodge Durango over the Chevy Tahoe. The police chief said he likes the bigger Durango, but other officers prefer the Tahoe.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100745/0626_SPD-Vehicles-6.mp3Councilman Jerry Fluty asked the chief if he believes the Chevy Tahoe is less reliable than the Dodge Durango. Chief Morris said the two vehicles have required a similar amount of repairs.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100747/0626_SPD-Vehicles-7.mp3Chief Morris said he has been searching for a long time to find the right type of vehicle for his department. The police chief said the two 2020 Chevy Tahoes have the optional equipment he requires.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100749/0626_SPD-Vehicles-8.mp3The Saratoga town council voted to allow Chief Morris to enter into negotiations for the two patrol vehicles.
Speaking to Bigfoot99 Tuesday afternoon, the police chief said he is still gathering more information for the council. Chief Morris said he will present his findings to the governing body during the July 2nd Saratoga town council meeting.
The post Saratoga Police Department Looking To Purchase Used Patrol Vehicles first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 26, 2024 |
Photo – Image of community clean up – Courtesy IStock.com
The Carbon County Visitor’s council is proposing an area-wide clean-up competition to beautify the county with the goal of increasing tourism.
During the June 11th Hanna town council meeting, the Visitor’s Council Chief Executive Officer Leslie Jefferson spoke about the newly completed master plan for her organization. Jefferson explained how the master plan is designed to increase tourism.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100713/0624_County-Clean-up-1.mp3Jefferson said she created a steering committee made up of 27 Carbon County residents. She also hired Cheyene-based consulting firm Rudloff Solutions to work on the plan. After reviewing 26 planning documents from different municipalities, Jefferson said the steering committee agreed on how they want to market Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100716/0624_County-Clean-up-2.mp3The next step in the tourism master plan creation process was identifying the four strategic opportunities for Carbon County: the visitor’s experience, outdoor recreation, hospitality, and collaborations.
Jefferson said the steering committee wanted to focus on the visitor experience by improving the county’s appearance, specifically along highways. Jefferson said while working in Washington state, she led a series of well received community clean up events.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100718/0624_County-Clean-up-3.mp3Jefferson suggested a similar competition where every municipality in Carbon County will select an area to clean up. Afterwards, an outside judge will determine which town did a better job of beautifying the chosen space.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100721/0624_County-Clean-up-4.mp3The Hanna town council did not specifically comment on the neighborhood beautification challenge idea and Jefferson did not provide a date for the proposed event.
The post Visitor’s Council Proposes County Wide Clean Up Competition first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 26, 2024 |
Photo – Shaw with City representatives accepts award – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The City of Rawlins recognized local resident Gayle Shaw with the June Community Builder Award.
During the June 18th Rawlins city council meeting, Carbon County Senior Services Advisory Council President Gayle Shaw was honored by the city for her volunteer work.
Rawlins Volunteer Recognition Committee member Pam Thayer explained that the Community Builder Award is given to people and organizations who improve life for city residents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100723/0626_Community-Builder-1.mp3Recreation Director Nikki Howell said Shaw, in her time as an elementary school teacher, went out of her way to make sure her students were taken care of. Now, as president of the Senior Services Advisory Council, Howell said Shaw works to make sure the city’s older residents are properly cared for.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100726/0626_Community-Builder-2.mp3Howell said in her role as Senior Services Advisory Council President, Shaw arranges different activities and events for the seniors. When not helping the elderly, Howell said Shaw can be found assisting others and participating in city organizations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100728/0626_Community-Builder-3.mp3Howell said Shaw enjoys seeing the smiles of people who were reluctant to participate in her planned activities, but are now a part of the group instead of staying home alone. For those reasons, and more, the Rawlins Volunteer Recognition Committee chose to award Shaw with the June 2024 Community Builder Award.
Shaw thanked the committee for the award. The Senior Services Advisory Council President encouraged everyone to help in any way they can.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/26100731/0626_Community-Builder-4.mp3Rawlins Community Builder Award recipients receive a recognition plaque from the city and a check for $100 to be donated to a non-profit organization of their choice. Shaw opted to give her prize money to the Rawlins Senior Center.
The post City Of Rawlins Selects Another Community Builder For Award first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 25, 2024 |
Photo – Carbon County Fire Protection District badge – Courtesy CCFPD
The Carbon County Fire Protection District is one step closer to offering firefighting coverage starting on July 1st.
During the 2022 elections, residents voted to establish a fire protection district to provide coverage for all unincorporated areas of Carbon County.
Forming the brand-new fire protection district has been a slow process. After a year and a half of negotiations and legal wrangling, the district is set to begin responding to fires next week.
At the June 18th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, County Attorney Ashley Davis said many more contracts must be signed before the fire protection district can begin operations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25111949/0625_Fire-District-1.mp3Attorney Davis said the county must sign a memorandum of understanding with the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office to provide dispatching service for the fire protection district. The attorney said another agreement is needed to transfer the county’s firefighters and firefighting equipment to the new protection district.
Attorney Davis also proposed leasing the county-owned McFadden Fire Station and community center to the fire district.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25111952/0625_Fire-District-2.mp3On top of leasing several buildings, Attorney Davis said the county will need to sell five structures to the fire protection district. The county attorney said the board will need to sign off on those agreements as well.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25111955/0625_Fire-District-3.mp3Attorney Davis also proposed contracts to move all county firefighters to the fire protection district. For insurance reasons, the attorney said employees will officially transfer over to the fire district on June 28th.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25111957/0625_Fire-District-4.mp3Attorney Davis said County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett has listed a total of 53 different county-owned firefighting vehicles that will be transferred to the fire protection district. Davis said the county will retain ownership of all firefighting-related records.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25112002/0625_Fire-District-5.mp3Attorney Davis said the county IT department will give eight old computers to the fire district.
Clerk Bartlett said she will prepare a list of the county’s volunteer firefighters to be presented during the July 2nd commissioners meeting. The county clerk said the board must basically terminate all the volunteers so the fire protection district can begin providing insurance for them.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25112006/0625_Fire-District-6.mp3South Central Wyoming EMS board member Irene Archibald asked if the ambulance service will need to renegotiate its contract for the Hanna ambulance barn with the fire protection district. Attorney Davis said because ownership of the building is changing hands, a new contract will be necessary.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25112008/0625_Fire-District-7.mp3Attorney Davis said the multitude of contracts and agreements are needed to allow the fire protection district to take over firefighting services for Carbon County.
Commissioner John Johnson said the formation of the Carbon County Fire Protection District has been a long and difficult process. Commissioner Johnson thanked everyone for working hard to create a brand-new government entity.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25112011/0625_Fire-District-8.mp3Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones echoed Johnson’s sentiment. Following the commissioner’s comments, the board unanimously voted to sign the documents transferring county-owned buildings, firefighters, and firefighting equipment to the fire protection district.
The post Many More Contracts Must Be Signed For Fire District To Begin Operations first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 25, 2024 |
Photo – Sage grouse – Bigfoot99 file photo
In a letter to Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland dated June 13, 2024, Governor Mark Gordon gave the secretary a history lesson on the involvement of Wyoming in preserving the sage grouse population in the West.
The governor’s history lesson was his way of pushing back against the contention in Washington, D.C.; that Wyoming is not doing enough to protect sage grouse habitat in the state.
In the letter, the governor provides the secretary of Interior with a primer on how Wyoming has led the way in sage grouse protection. The governor writes, “The State of Wyoming has been a longtime leader in the conservation of this iconic species, beginning in the 1940s and extending to the present. Most recently, we developed a statewide conservation plan in 2001, which led to extensive conservation efforts and ultimately to the creation of the Sage-grouse Implementation Team (SGIT) in 2007, and, in due course, the first Executive Order for the protection of the species in 2008.” The state’s efforts pre-date any federal move to protect the bird.
Noting that Wyoming’s efforts pre-date trendy Democrat environmental polices in Washington, the governor notes that the efforts to protect the bird have been “inclusive, non-partisan, and collaborative in every regard.”
Wyoming’s efforts to protect the sage grouse even pre-date Haaland’s entry into politics in 2012 as the director for Barack Obama’s presidential re-election campaign.
“Wyoming Governors have maintained a commitment to sage-grouse over the past 16 years,” Governor Gordon notes. “Governor Matt Mead was instrumental in the establishment of the national Sage-grouse Working Group, a move which led to landscape-scale conservation efforts of the Bureau of Land Management in 2015. Wyoming has been, and continues to be, an effective pioneer in sage-grouse protection and management.”
Also in his letter, Governor Gordon notes that Wyoming has established state-specific industrial requirements to protect sage grouse habitat. “In addition, we have dedicated hundreds of millions of dollars to habitat improvement. There is simply no need to add more designations, restrictions and possible confusion on those landscapes.”
The Governor concludes in his letter that he is optimistic that the BLM will recognize Wyoming’s track record of conservation in regards to the Greater Sage Grouse.
A final environmental impact statement from the Bureau of Land Management is expected this fall, followed by a Record of Decision.
The public comment period ended June 13 of this year.
The post Wyoming Governor Gives Secretary Of Interior Sage Grouse History Lesson first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 25, 2024 |
Photo – Medicine Bow Town Council – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
In lieu of a town-sponsored Fourth of July fireworks show, the Medicine Bow Fire Department will supervise residents as they set off their own pyrotechnics to celebrate Independence Day.
During the June 10th Medicine Bow town council meeting, Fire Chief Ed Standish asked the governing body to allow residents to detonate their personal fireworks, within reason, at a specifically prepared location.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25112014/0625_Med-Bow-Fireworks-1.mp3The fire chief said the field north of the town’s fire department will be sprayed down with water to prevent any fireworks from sparking a wildfire.
Chief Standish said in the past, the Medicine Bow Fire Department would put on its own fireworks display. However, Standish said because he no longer has a member with the necessary certification to legally buy fireworks, the department is unable to host a Fourth of July show.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25112017/0625_Med-Bow-Fireworks-2.mp3Not far from Medicine Bow, across the Albany County line in Rock River, Chief Standish said the governing body doesn’t require a purchasing permit to put on a fireworks show. The fire chief asked the Medicine Bow town council to consider removing the certification requirement from the town’s ordinance in the future. Standish also said he is unwilling to pay for an individual with the proper certification.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25112019/0625_Med-Bow-Fireworks-3.mp3Chief Standish said at the time, the town council created the certification requirement based on their interpretation of the wording of the fireworks purchasing permit. The fire chief said a permit is no longer required to legally buy fireworks.
Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer asked Chief Standish what the other members of the Medicine Bow Fire Department thought putting on their own fireworks display. The fire chief said he hasn’t brought up the proposal to the department. Standish said he wanted to gauge the council’s reaction to the idea first.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/25112022/0625_Med-Bow-Fireworks-4.mp3The Medicine Bow town council expressed their support of the idea to allow residents to set off their own fireworks. However, due to how late in the meeting the idea was proposed, the governing body was legally unable to make a decision. A special meeting was scheduled because the next regular council meeting will occur after the Fourth of July.
At that special meeting, the council voted to allow residents to set off their personal fireworks in the field north of the Medicine Bow Fire Department on the Fourth of July. Volunteer firefighters will be on hand to supervise the event.
Attempts to reach Carbon County Fire Warden John Rutherford, who has said fireworks are off limits, were unsuccessful on Monday.
The post Medicine Bow Independence Day Will Not Have Fireworks Show first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 24, 2024 |
Photo – Patrick Martinez – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins governing body voted to name the city’s new recycling center after the late landfill supervisor.
During last week’s Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Tom Sarvey asked the city council to dedicate the newly constructed recycling center to Patrick Martinez and honor him with a plaque.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102825/0624_Rawins-Recycling-1.mp3Martinez died from a sudden health emergency last December. Speaking to Bigfoot99 after Martinez’s death, Community Development Director Lou Lascano said Martinez began working for the city over 15 years ago, eventually making his way up to Landfill Superintendent. Lascano said Martinez was very skilled at operating the heavy equipment at the dump, especially his favorite piece of equipment: his bulldozer.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102830/0624_Rawins-Recycling-2.mp3At Tuesday’s city council meeting, Sarvey read tributes to Martinez from the recycling center staff. Sarvey said Martinez worked to make the landfill better.
Sarvey said Martinez was known to use his signature catchphrase, “We may get fired for this,” when presenting an unconventional plan to improve services at the dump.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102836/0624_Rawins-Recycling-3.mp3Sarvey said he intends to put the phrase on Martinez’s recycling center dedication plaque.
When the city was looking to construct a new recycling center, Martinez insisted that the landfill crew perform the work. Despite leading the project, Sarvey said Martinez did not participate in the construction. However, the city manager said the new facility would not exist without Martinez.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102841/0624_Rawins-Recycling-4.mp3Sarvey said Martinez died before he could see the new recycling center completed. The city manager said staff wants to dedicate the building to the late landfill superintendent’s memory.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102848/0624_Rawins-Recycling-5.mp3The Rawlins city council voted to name the newly constructed recycling center after Patrick Martinez. Sarvey said he will arrange a public dedication ceremony once the plaque is completed.
The post New Recycling Center To Be Dedicated To Late Supervisor first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 24, 2024 |
Photo – Gerald Parton – Courtesy Biz New Orleans
Big administrative changes came to Memorial Hospital in the past two weeks. On June 14th, Director of Strategic Operations at the facility, Stephanie Hinkle, announced that interim CEO Rex Walk and Chief Financial Officer Margaret Fontana had left the organization. Hinkle said in a statement that Walk’s replacement was already in place.
Gerald Parton is now in charge. as the new Interim CEO.
Parton and Hinkle spoke with Bigfoot99 about the struggles faced by the rural hospital and the path toward financial stability. Parton said he has decades of experience running hospitals, both large and small. The interim CEO said he is already familiar with the Rawlins hospital.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102708/0624_MHCC-1.mp3Parton, who is from Alabama, said he was the head of a large hospital in New Orleans. After leaving that position, Parton said the medical management company, Ovation Healthcare, offered him a series of interim CEO jobs at hospitals across the country: including right here in Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102717/0624_MHCC-2.mp3Following the resignation of Chief Executive Officer Ken Harmon in May of 2023, the hospital Board of Trustees brought in Rex Walk to fix the hospital’s financial issues. Walk was given a year to turn the struggling facility around before being terminated by the board. Bigfoot99 asked Parton why Walk as let go. The new interim CEO said the board decided a change of leadership was needed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102722/0624_MHCC-3.mp3Walk wasn’t the only high-ranking hospital official to leave earlier this month. Despite being hired in March, Chief Financial Officer Margaret Fontana has already left the organization. It is unclear if Fontana was fired by the hospital board or voluntarily quit. Either way, Strategic Director Hinkle said MHCC has a new CFO ready to take Fontana’s place.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102730/0624_MHCC-4.mp3Bigfoot99 asked new interim CEO Parton what strengths he has seen in MHCC since taking the reins eight days ago. The interim CEO said the hospital’s biggest asset is its employees.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102737/0624_MHCC-5.mp3Parton said the hospital’s biggest issue is money. The interim CEO said Memorial Hospital isn’t unique in its financial difficulties. However, Parton said he believes that MHCC is the only rural healthcare facility without an alternative funding source aside from seeing patients.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102744/0624_MHCC-6.mp3As reported by Bigfoot99, the MHCC Board of Trustees is requesting to add the creation of a taxpayer funded hospital district to the 2024 general election ballot. Parton said a three-mill levy would bring in an additional $1.5 million a year to the hospital. A mill levy is the tax rate applied to the assessed value of a property.
Hinkle said a healthcare district appears to be key to hospital’s future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102749/0624_MHCC-7.mp3The Carbon County Commissioners will decide if a hospital district will be added to November’s ballot at their August 6th meeting. If they approve, Hinkle will work to educate the public about the hospital district’s impact.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102757/0624_MHCC-8.mp3A three-mill levy will require residents in Rawlins, Hanna, Sinclair, and specific unincorporated areas of Carbon County to pay an additional $100 to $500 a year in taxes. MHCC staff will provide a calculator to help residents determine how much additional tax money they will pay.
County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett said MHCC is unlikely to see any tax revenue until the end of 2025. Bigfoot99 asked Parton if the hospital can survive that long. The interim CEO said it won’t be easy, but MHCC will survive.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102803/0624_MHCC-9.mp3The future of Memorial Hospital of Carbon County hinges on the adoption of the taxpayer funded hospital district. Hinkle discussed the potential negative consequences should the hospital be forced to close.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102810/0624_MHCC-10.mp3In the meantime, Hinkle said MHCC is actively recruiting new medical providers. The strategic director said she is excited to welcome a new internal medicine doctor to the team.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102816/0624_MHCC-11.mp3Both Parton and Hinkle said there is no quick fix for the hospital’s financial troubles. However, a hospital district will greatly help MHCC continue to offer medical care to the community.
The post MHCC Has Big Administrative Changes Recently first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 24, 2024 |
Photo – Ryne Sandberg – Courtesy Baseball Hall of Fame
In sports, yesterday was the anniversary of a historic baseball game. The slugfest played out in Wrigley Field 40 years ago, on June 23, 1984 on the west side of the Windy City.
It’s still called the Ryne Sandberg Game in the Lakeview neighborhood at Halstead and Addison Streets. Until I moved to Wyoming, I lived two blocks away from the scene.
Sandberg hit a pair of late-inning, game-tying home runs off St. Louis Cardinals closer Bruce Sutter in the Cubs’ 12-11, 11-inning win before a crowd of 38,079 at Wrigley.
It signaled his rise to stardom. The Cubbies run for the National League pennant would run out of steam later in the season, but the second baseman earned the National League Most Valuable Player Award that year.
Sandberg tied the game in the 9th and 10th innings.
Here the two home runs…first with Bob Costas with the call on NBC and then the voice of the Cubs—Harry Carey with the Sandberg blast in the 10th.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/24102858/0624_Sandberg-home-runs.mp3Both of Sandberg’s home runs came off Cardinals’ closer Bruce Sutter. The Cubs would go onto win 12-11, launching a pennant run—the Cubbies first since 1908—that would finally fizzle out in a season-ending collapse on the West Coast.
Still, it gave a new generation of Cub fans a hope they had never known.
Yesterday, 40 years after the monumental game, the Cubs honored Sandberg with a statute on Gallagher Way, just outside the historic confines of Wrigley Field.
Costas was on hand to introduce Sandberg at the ceremony.
Sandberg was just 24-years old that incredible year. He’s 64 years old now. He received a cancer diagnosis earlier this year.
But 40 years ago, yesterday, in a game that lasted 3 hours and 53 minutes, NBC had written the Cubs off before the end of the game. Costas had already read the closing credits before Sandberg’s second home run. And a Cardinal was named the player of the game as the television crew had already checked out mentally in the hot Chicago sun.
Sandberg, in just his third full big-league season, drove in seven runs to rally the Cubs from an early 7-1 deficit on yesterday’s date 40 years earlier. In 16 big league seasons, including 15 with the Cubs, Sandberg was named to 10 All-Star Games and won nine Gold Glove Awards.
The post 40th Anniversary Of Historic Cubs Baseball Game Honored With Statue first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 21, 2024 |
Photo – Kathy Beck being sworn in as Saratoga council member – Bigfoot99 file photo
Citing a lack of support from her fellow council members, Saratoga Councilwoman Kathy Beck resigned as the liaison to the town’s recreation department during Tuesday’s regular meeting of the governing body.
The announcement came as Councilwoman Beck read her letter of resignation from the recreation department. Beck said she became involved with the rec department to help with the town’s outdoor swimming pool. Using the momentum from her appointment, Councilwoman Beck said she applied for, and received, a seat on the town council.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/21114650/0621_Beck-Protests-1.mp3Beck was appointed to the Saratoga town council in November of 2022 by then-Mayor Creed James to serve the remainder of Ben Spaulding’s unexpired term. Spaulding resigned mid-term. Councilwoman Beck’s time on the town council ends at the end of this year. The councilwoman has not chosen to run for any of the three open council seats.
Reading from her resignation letter, Councilwoman Beck explained how she believes the recreation department benefits the community.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/21114653/0621_Beck-Protests-2.mp3Beck continued, saying that recreation opportunities foster social connections and bring community members together through sports and activities. The councilwoman said parks and recreation areas also can bring more tourism dollars into the town and improve the overall quality of life for Saratoga residents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/21114656/0621_Beck-Protests-3.mp3When Mayor Chuck Davis took office in 2023, he appointed each councilmember to act as a liaison to the various department boards within the town.
Continuing to read from her resignation letter, Beck said she specifically requested to be assigned to the recreation department due to her love of community events. Through her position on the board, the councilwoman said she helped make the town’s recreation department better.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/21114659/0621_Beck-Protests-4.mp3Despite her love of the recreation department, Councilwoman Beck asked to immediately be removed as liaison to the board. Beck accused her fellow councilmembers of not supporting her effects to improve the reach of the town’s recreation department.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/21114701/0621_Beck-Protests-5.mp3In April of 2023, Saratoga council members butted heads with Beck over spending on a pickleball tournament sponsored by the rec department. A local business owner accused Councilwoman Beck of reneging on a contract to supply food during the tournament. Beck was also told not to sell T-shirts during the event even though commemorative shirts had been purchased already by the town.
The following month, Councilwoman Beck once again faced criticism from her fellow council members over raises for pool staff. Beck championed an across-the-board pay raise for lifeguards. Mayor Davis said the town could not afford to pay the pool staff more money.
Soon after the discussion, Councilwoman Beck penned a letter to the editor of the local newspaper.
In the letter, Beck wrote that the town should show appreciation for the lifeguards by paying them a competitive wage. Her letter also states that she would like to increase the hours the pool is open and add more activities. The councilwoman said the town may not be able to staff the pool if it doesn’t offer to pay its employees more money.
Councilwoman Beck’s prophecy appears to be coming true. Earlier this week, Bigfoot99 reported that the town’s only adult lifeguard threatened to resign if more pool staff aren’t immediately hired. Mayor Davis said he received several applications for the open pool manager position and will hold interviews at an undisclosed time in the future.
Upon finishing the reading of her letter of resignation from the recreation department, Mayor Davis thanked Beck for her time and appointed Bub Barkhurst as the new rec department liaison.
The post Saratoga Councilwoman Resigns As Rec Liason first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 21, 2024 |
Photo – Tyler Jessop – Courtesy Carbon County Detention Center
A 33-year-old Rawlins man faces 28 charges of child sexual abuse.
Police arrested Tyler Vernon Jessop on May 27th after he confessed to molesting three girls under the age of six.
According to court documents provided to Bigfoot99, on the evening of May 27th, Rawlins Police Officer Kevin Boriboun responded to a call of a sexual assault of a five-year-old female in a residential area in Rawlins. Following the investigation, officers arrested Jessop for multiple counts of sexual abuse of a minor.
Jessop is being held in the Carbon County Jail on $100,00 cash bond.
The post 33 Year Old Man Arrested For Sexual Assault Of A Minor first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 21, 2024 |
Photo – Fueling vehicle – Bigfoot99 file photo
Some good news for your pocketbook. Average gasoline prices are down in Wyoming. Gas Buddy Dot Com reports gasoline is averaging $3.27 per gallon on Monday.
In Rawlins on Thursday, gas stations were reporting prices on either side of $3.00 per gallon.
Americans may get lucky this summer. Fuel prices usually rise ahead of the summer driving season. Analysts said this week that gas prices may have peaked in mid-April at a high of $3.67 per gallon.
The average cost of a gallon of regular gas was $3.44 on Wednesday, according to AAA, down about 4% from one month ago. They have fallen since then. Prices are expected to fall further because of lackluster demand. Consumers are pulling back on spending in the face of ongoing inflation.
Falling gas prices could provide a welcome reprieve to Americans who have been crushed by unrelenting price increases for more than three years under the Biden Administration.
This is an election year, and prices may also be declining through political maneuvers such as tapping oil reserves that are usually off-limits.
Industry analysts report that the U.S. produces about 13.2 million barrels of oil per day, just below the record of 13.3 million recorded in December 2023.
Some economists report that falling gasoline prices may indicate that the U.S. economy is shrinking, resulting in less demand for goods and services and fewer trucks on the road.
Some states, including Democrat-run California and New York, report gas prices remain well over $4 per gallon.
The post Gasoline Prices Down From Last Month first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 21, 2024 |
Photo – Natural Gas ad – Courtesy wyogas.com
The town of Medicine Bow has agreed to join the Wyoming Community Gas Joint Powers Board.
In April, citing lower prices, the Medicine Bow town council voted to switch natural gas suppliers from Black Hills Energy to Wyoming Community Gas.
According to its website, Wyoming Community Gas is a not-for-profit consortium of municipalities that provides natural gas service. Every year, the gas provider reinvests a portion of its revenue back into the enrolled communities, supporting projects that enhance the quality of life for residents.
During the June 10th Medicine Bow town council meeting, Public Works Director Brian Lashley said for a $200 fee, the town can join the Wyoming Community Gas Joint Powers Board. Lashley said joint powers board members receive roughly $3,500 a year back from the gas supplier to be used for community improvement projects.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/21114703/0621_Med-Bow-Nat-Gas-1.mp3Town Clerk Karen Heath said in the past, Wyoming Community Gas would inform the town that they had not been awarded any grant money. Clerk Heath said she was unaware that the town needed to sign up with the natural gas supplier to receive the grant money.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/21114705/0621_Med-Bow-Nat-Gas-2.mp3Medicine Bow will begin receiving its natural gas through Wyoming Community Gas starting in July. Clerk Heath said she is unhappy with the service their previous natural gas supplier, Black Hills Energy, was providing the town. Heath said Black Hills made it difficult to pay the town’s five monthly natural gas bills.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/21114707/0621_Med-Bow-Nat-Gas-3.mp3Mayor Justin George said he was provided with a document listing the other municipalities that make up the Wyoming Community Gas Joint Powers Board. Public Works Director Lashley said he didn’t know if the gas supplier provided Mayor George with a complete list of joint powers board members.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/21114709/0621_Med-Bow-Nat-Gas-4.mp3Here in Carbon County, Rawlins, Sinclair, Saratoga, and Hanna are all members of the Wyoming Community Gas Joint Powers Board.
Lashley said joining the Wyoming Community Gas Joint Powers Board will not change the price of natural gas. The public works director said being a member of the board will allow Medicine Bow to receive yearly grant payments from the gas supplier.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/21114711/0621_Med-Bow-Nat-Gas-5.mp3Town Clerk Heath added that Wyoming Community Gas provided a lower natural gas rate than any of the other suppliers the governing body considered during its April meeting.
Councilman Trevor Strauch motioned to join the Wyoming Community Gas Joint Powers Board for $200. Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer seconded and the motion carried.
The post Medicine Bow Switches Natural Gas Suppliers first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 20, 2024 |
Photo – Memorial Hospital of Carbon County – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Memorial Hospital of Carbon County Board of Trustees wants to establish a healthcare district to help fund the cash strapped hospital.
During Tuesday’s Carbon County Commissioners meeting, hospital board members Garry Goergen and Jerry Steele asked for a hospital district to be added to the 2024 election ballot.
Goergen said Memorial Hospital needs money to continue operating. The board member said a healthcare district is their last-ditch effort to find funding for the hospital.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102230/0620_MHCC-1.mp3Goergen said he believes that Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is the only critical care hospital in Wyoming without a funding source outside of seeing patients. The MHCC board member said a hospital district is the only option left to keep the facility open.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102237/0620_MHCC-2.mp3Carbon County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett and Treasurer Lindsey West, said they had created a map showing who will be taxed if a hospital district was created. Clerk Bartlett listed the municipalities that would be located in and out of the proposed healthcare district.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102242/0620_MHCC-3.mp3As a starting point, the hospital trustees are asking for a 3 mill levy on the property values in the affected areas. Clerk Bartlett said with the commissioners’ approval, electing a Hospital District Board of Directors will also be added to the 2024 ballot.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102248/0620_MHCC-4.mp3The MHCC Board of Trustees and the Hospital District Board of Directors would operate as two separate entities until the hospital district is fully functional. Clerk Bartlett said even if the measure is passed, the hospital district is unlikely to receive any money until October of 2025 at the earliest.
The county clerk also said the hospital district isn’t guaranteed to receive the estimated $1.5 million.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102253/0620_MHCC-5.mp3Clerk Bartlett said adding anything to the upcoming ballot requires a 30-day notice. After publishing a proclamation in the local newspaper, the commissioners will decide at their August 6th meeting if the measure will be on the 2024 ballot.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102258/0620_MHCC-6.mp3Clerk Bartlett said candidate filing for the upcoming election ends on August 27th. The county clerk said if the commissioners vote to add the hospital district to the ballot, the MHCC Board of Trustees won’t have a lot of time to arrange five candidates.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102303/0620_MHCC-7.mp3The county commissioners voted to advertise a proclamation to add the creation of a hospital district to the 2024 ballot. Commissioner John Johnson said he believes the formation of a healthcare district should be left up to Carbon County voters.
The post Hospital Trustees Ask To Create Hospital District For Upcoming Election first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 20, 2024 |
Photo – Allred and Layman with one of the precipitation monitors – by Matt Copeland
The Carbon County Office of Emergency Management is installing precipitation monitoring stations in the Mullen burn scar.
In 2020, the Mullen Fire burned over 170,000 acres of southern Wyoming and northern Colorado. The flames destroyed plant life in and around the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Without trees and bushes to hold the soil together, the risk of dangerous flood-related debris flows have increased.
In June of 2023, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners authorized Emergency Manager Lenny Layman to team up with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to purchase and install six rain beacons in the Mullen burn scar.
Emergency Manager Layman has been setting up the precipitation monitoring stations in areas where flooding is a major concern. Yesterday morning, Bigfoot99 reporter Matt Copeland joined Layman and Albany County Emergency Manager Kate Allred outside of the town of Albany to deploy an early alert station at the south fork of the Little Laramie River.
Layman said the rain gauges will help the National Weather Service create more accurate weather predictions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102309/0620_Precip-Monitor-1.mp3The precipitation monitoring stations are set up in difficult to reach locations where ground proofing the National Weather Service’s forecasts is difficult. Yesterday’s monitor installation began with a short drive down a rocky two-lane road outside of Albany. When the road became impassable due to water, Layman, Allred, and a small team of volunteers hiked pieces of the weather monitor up the side of a steep hill. Once the pieces of the monitoring station was on top of the hill, Layman said he began cutting down burned and dead trees.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102314/0620_Precip-Monitor-2.mp3The dead trees must be taken down to prevent summer wind from blowing them onto the monitoring beacon. After the trees are cleared, Layman said the team began assembling the early alert station.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102318/0620_Precip-Monitor-3.mp3The solar-powered weather station stands on a tripod with instruments extending roughly ten feet above the ground. A small bucket electronically measures the amount of precipitation the area is receiving. Layman said the information gathered by the monitoring station is wirelessly broadcast to various state and local agencies.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102322/0620_Precip-Monitor-4.mp3Yesterday’s installation on the Little Laramie River was the fourth of six monitors. Layman said he will deploy the final two monitoring stations next week.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102327/0620_Precip-Monitor-5.mp3Layman said the Mullen and Cottonwood Creek early alert stations are the only two physically located in Carbon County. Despite Albany County being more affected by the Mullen Fire, Layman said burn scar related flooding has a direct impact on Carbon County. The emergency manager also thanked A Bar A Ranch Assistant Manager Benjy Duke for proposing the weather monitoring project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102331/0620_Precip-Monitor-6.mp3The early alert stations will only remain in flood prone areas of the Mullen burn scar until late fall. Prior to winter, Layman said he’ll take all the precipitation monitors down and redeploy them next spring.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102338/0620_Precip-Monitor-7.mp3With proper maintenance, Layman said he expects the beacons to last for a decade or more. Layman said his agreement with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration requires the six monitors to be installed at predetermined locations for 24 hours. After one day of service, the precipitation gauges then become the property of the Carbon County Office of Emergency Management. Layman said he can deploy the rain monitors anywhere he chooses for practically free.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102344/0620_Precip-Monitor-8.mp3Layman said, if necessary, he could position some of the precipitation monitoring stations in the Sierra Madre Mountains. The emergency manager said the Sierra Madres are just as susceptible to fire-related flood damage as the Snowy Range.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102347/0620_Precip-Monitor-9.mp3Albany County Emergency Manager Kate Allred said she is happy with the current rain gauge locations. Allred thanked Layman for securing the early alert stations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102352/0620_Precip-Monitor-10.mp3Both Carbon and Albany Counties will use the data collected by the precipitation gauges to issue earlier warnings when weather conditions indicate the possibility of flooding, giving residents more time to prepare for debris flow.
The post Precipitation Monitors Installed On Mullen Burn Scar first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 20, 2024 |
Photo – Wyoming Attorney General Bridget Hill – Courtesy State of Wyoming
Wyoming Attorney General Bridget Hill is one of 24 AGs around the nation who have filed a motion opposing special counsel Jack Smith’s gag order against former President Donald Trump in a classified records case filed in Florida.
The 24 state attorneys, in a court petition filed Monday, contest that Trump’s “colorful rhetoric” is protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Prior to being appointed to the position of Special Counsel by the Biden Administration, Smith served as chief prosecutor of war crimes during the Kosovo War in the Hague where the laws – and the presumption of innocence – are different than in the United States.
The Special Prosecutor had argued that the former president’s allegations about FBI agents who carried out a search of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in August of 2022 would incite threats or harassment against the law enforcement officials.
A previous gag order request from the special counsel was rejected by the court on procedural grounds. Smith’s team filed the second request a few days later.
Trump’s defense team filed a motion, arguing the second gag request should also be dismissed on the grounds that it would violate Trump’s constitutional rights.
In their court filing, the states argue that the second motion from the Smith team should also be denied because U.S citizens “have an interest in hearing from major political candidates in the upcoming presidential election.”
The attorneys note in their court filing that “suppressing views and viewpoints from reaching the public” in an election violates First Amendment principles. The legal brief also notes that “gagging a candidate means that constituents cannot hear how the candidate will reply to a given issue of concern—a concern like the weaponization of the prosecutorial processes against political opponents.”
The brief notes that “All Americans are entitled to have their free speech rights respected.”
The two dozen state attorneys general request that the Court deny the special prosecutor’s request to restrict Trump’s First Amendment rights.
The AG’s note that former President Trump has never threatened the FBI agents involved in the search, and that his colorful rhetoric is a way “to communicate his intent to fight hard for Americans” in a direct way.
Trump faces 40 counts of illegally retaining classified documents after he left the White House in early 2021 and for allegedly obstructing FBI attempts to retrieve them.
Current President Biden also kept documents from his time as Vice President in open boxes in his unsecured garage. No charges were ever filed against Biden, who as vice president was not granted the same privileges as former President Trump.
The complaint reads, “The States of Iowa, Florida, West Virginia, Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming stand four-square behind the protections of the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution.”
U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon has scheduled a June 24 court hearing regarding the prosecutor’s gag order request.
The post 24 Attorney Generals File Motion Opposing Gag Order first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 20, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga’s outdoor swimming pool entrance – Bigfoot99 file photo
A lifeguard at the Saratoga swimming pool, who is also a doctor, threatened to quit if the town doesn’t resolve alleged, unsafe conditions at the pool.
During Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Lifeguard and Water Aerobics Instructor Dr. Jane Carey read a letter to the governing body.
Dr. Carey said she is worried about the safety of swimmers at the town’s pool. The water aerobics instructor said the pool lacks leadership.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102356/0620_Saratoga-Pool-1.mp3Dr. Carey also said no set schedule is in place to test the pool water to ensure it is safe to swim in. The water aerobics instructor said she and her fellow lifeguards are too busy protecting swimmers to take on any additional duties. Dr. Carey called for a pool manager to be hired immediately.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102401/0620_Saratoga-Pool-2.mp3She also said the pool manager should have the proper credentials to teach swimming lessons.
Dr. Carey described a situation where a swimmer was injured on the day the pool opened. The incident illustrated that at least two lifeguards are always needed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102407/0620_Saratoga-Pool-3.mp3Dr. Carey said, as the only adult lifeguard, she feels responsible for anything that happens at the pool. If a pool manager is not hired by the end of the week, Dr. Carey said she will quit.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102411/0620_Saratoga-Pool-4.mp3Dr. Carey asked the town council to find a pool manager as soon as possible. She asked the town to hire former pool manager Whisper Bunch again.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102417/0620_Saratoga-Pool-5.mp3Once again, Dr. Carey demanded that the town hire a pool manager. She said the pool is too dangerous for her to continue as a lifeguard.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102424/0620_Saratoga-Pool-6.mp3Dr. Carey said the pool should not be open under the current circumstances.
Mayor Chuck Davis said the town has at least two applicants for the pool manager position. Mayor Davis said he’ll hold interviews once all applications have been received.
Dr. Carey said she’ll continue serving as a lifeguard until a new pool manager is hired only if the council agrees to sign a document absolving her of all responsibility in the event of an emergency at the pool.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20102428/0620_Saratoga-Pool-7.mp3Mayor Davis said Town Attorney Kylie Waldrip will need to be involved in the creation of any legally binding agreement.
The mayor asked for a motion to accept Dr. Carey’s resignation if they fail to hire a pool manager by next week. Councilman Jerry Fluty motioned to table the vote until after Dr. Carey officially submits her resignation. The motion carried. Mayor Davis said he will reach out to Dr. Carey as soon as a pool manager is hired.
The post Lifeguard Threatens To Resign From Swimming Pool In Saratoga first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 19, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins Police Department – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins Police Department has received authorization to apply for two safety grants.
During Tuesday night’s Rawlins city council meeting, Police Chief Mike Ward was given permission to apply for a Wyoming Department of Transportation highway safety grant.
Speaking to Bigfoot99, Chief Ward said the annual grant allows WYDOT to use federal National Highway Traffic Safety Administration funds to pay Rawlins police officers to spend more time looking out for impaired and unsafe drivers.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195201/0619_RPD-Grant-1.mp3The City of Rawlins has used the highway safety grant for decades. Chief Ward said the overtime funding will allow Rawlins police officers to have a more visible presence on the city streets.
Rawlins Police Lieutenant Jared Frakes said the grant is focused on three areas of traffic safety: reducing impaired driving, promoting the use of seatbelts, and speed enforcement. Lieutenant Frakes said Rawlins officers are unable to cite motorists for seatbelt violations alone.
Instead, the police lieutenant said officers will direct their efforts toward speeding and impaired driving offences.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195204/0619_RPD-Grant-2.mp3Chief Ward assured residents that Rawlins police officers won’t use this opportunity to write an excessive number of tickets. The police chief said each traffic stop is unique and officers may use their best judgement to determine what type of citation, if any, a situation requires.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195207/0619_RPD-Grant-3.mp3WYDOT states in a letter to Chief Ward that based on the percentage of impaired driving crashes, impaired driving arrests, and occupant protection crashes, the Rawlins Police Department is eligible to receive $9,454.50 for Impaired Driving High Visibility Overtime Enforcement and $2,500 for Occupant Protection High Visibility Overtime Enforcement.
Also, at last night’s meeting, the Rawlins city council approved a grant request through the Bureau of Justice Assistance Ballistic Vest Partnership. Chief Ward explained that the grant will pay for new body armor.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195210/0619_RPD-Grant-4.mp3Chief Ward said body armor typically needs to be replaced every five years. The police chief said the Bureau of Justice grant will allow him to exchange outdated vests and purchase body armor for new recruits.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195213/0619_RPD-Grant-5.mp3Using the funding from both grants, Chief Ward said the Rawlins Police Department can more effectively keep residents and officers safe.
The post RPD Receives “Go Ahead” To Apply For Public Safety Grants first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 19, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga’s SCWEMS Ambulance Barn – Bigfoot99 file photo
The South Central Wyoming Emergency Medical Services board updated county commissioners on new ambulances and payment opportunities.
During yesterday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, SCWEMS Board Chairwoman Irene Archibald presented the commissioners with a copy of the upcoming fiscal year 2024 through 2025 budget. Archibald said the SCWEMS board has set aside $225,000 to purchase a new ambulance. The board chairwoman said the money for the ambulance is coming from the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality’s Industrial Siting Committee. Archibald said she hopes to take delivery of the medical transport vehicle by the beginning of next year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195216/0619_SCWEMS-1.mp3Archibald said the SCWEMS board has applied for a $50,000 Wyoming Intertie impact assistance grant. The board chairwoman said the money will be used to cover a portion of the cost of the new ambulance.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195218/0619_SCWEMS-2.mp3Archibald said the SCWEMS board is also using a portion of the Industrial Siting money to cover the salaries of their four full-time employees.
The board chairwoman said volunteer EMTs are getting harder and harder to come by.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195220/0619_SCWEMS-3.mp3Archibald said SCWEMS is currently participating in a Medicare reimbursement study. The board chairwoman said the study is necessary because the federal health insurance program only pays a fraction of what SCWEMS bills them.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195222/0619_SCWEMS-4.mp3However, Archibald said Medicare will decrease its payments to SCWEMS if the medical transportation organization refuses to participate in the study. The commissioners compared the federal agency’s actions to a mafia-style shakedown. Archibald says she hopes SCWEMS will begin receiving a little more money from Medicare.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195225/0619_SCWEMS-5.mp3Archibald said SCWEMS is using federal American Rescue Plan Act, or ARPA, funding to cover half the price of a plot of land for a new ambulance barn in Hanna. The board chairwoman said SCWEMS will continue to seek out more grant money for the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195227/0619_SCWEMS-6.mp3Archibald said the Hanna ambulance barn should cost roughly $520,000 to build.
On July 1st, the SCWEMS board will have a new member. Archibald said Gayle Wessel will take Helen Weiland’s place as the Riverside SCWEMS representative. The board chairwoman said Weiland has been a part of the ambulance service since its formation.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195229/0619_SCWEMS-7.mp3Archibald said the SCWEMS board does a great job keeping the ambulance service running. The board chairwoman thanked the six other SCWEMS board members.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195232/0619_SCWEMS-8.mp3Archibald said she is excited for the outcome of the Medicare reimbursement study because SCWEMS provides a lot of charity care throughout Carbon County.
The post SCWEMS Gives A Positive Report To Commissioners first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 19, 2024 |
Photo – Charlie is on the pavement and Toby is in the room – Courtesy Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter
Rawlins animal control officers are encouraging people to adopt one of the many dogs housed in the city’s animal shelter.
The Rawlins-Rochelle Animal Shelter contains seven dogs and 12 cats. Animal Control Officer Roberto Valdes said roughly three weeks ago, the shelter received an older pit-bull mix. Valdes affectionately calls the dog Mama because it’s clear that she’s had puppies in the past. The animal control officer said Mama was abandoned at the TA Travel Center on Higley Boulevard. Despite being jumpy around other dogs, Valdes said Mama is very affectionate towards people.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195139/0619_Animal-Shelter-1.mp3Valdes said aside from a few physical signs of her age, you would never know that Mama is as old as she is. The animal control officer said if he could, he would adopt the dog himself.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195142/0619_Animal-Shelter-2.mp3In April, Bigfoot99 spotlighted two other dogs in the Rawlins Animal Shelter: Bandit and Toby. Valdez said Bandit, a 15-year-old Australian Sheepdog mix, was taken by a senior dog rescue in Jackson Hole. Toby, however, is still at the shelter. Valdez said the 4-year-old pit bull requires a very specific type of owner.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195145/0619_Animal-Shelter-3.mp3Toby has been at the shelter for two years. Valdez said Toby is very sweet once he gets to know a person, but he has a very strong protective instinct.
Valdez also wanted to bring attention to another dog at the shelter named Charlie. The animal control officer said Charlie is a shy, but affectionate eight-year-old Catahoula Hound mix.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195148/0619_Animal-Shelter-4.mp3Back at the beginning of April, Bigfoot99 featured a story about Charlie. At the time, Charlie’s caretaker Cindy Kessler asked someone to adopt the dog before she had to give him up.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195150/0619_Animal-Shelter-5.mp3No one adopted Charlie, forcing Kessler to relinquish the dog to the town. Rawlins Animal Control Officer Valdez said because Saratoga doesn’t have a long-term animal shelter, Charlie ended up in Rawlins. Despite being a little skittish at first, Valdez said Charlie quickly warms up to new people.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195153/0619_Animal-Shelter-6.mp3Valdez said Charlie has a benign fatty tumor called a lipoma on his right shoulder. The animal control officer asked for donations to get Charlie the surgery he needs to have the lipoma removed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195155/0619_Animal-Shelter-7.mp3On top of the seven dogs currently housed in the Rawlins-Rochelle Animal Shelter, nine more are enrolled in the Cage to Save Program at the Wyoming State Penitentiary. Dogs in the Cage to Save Program are trained in basic obedience by specially vetted prison inmates. The animals are also spayed and neutered, and up to date on their shots. Valdez said the prisoners teach the dogs very well.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/19195157/0619_Animal-Shelter-8.mp3For more information about Mama, Toby, Charlie, or any of the other animals at the Rawlins-Rochelle Animal Shelter, call 328-4534 Monday through Friday between the hours of 3:00 and 5:00pm. Adoption fees are $25 for cats and $40 for dogs.
The post Rawlins Animal Control Encourage Citizens To Adopt A Homeless Pet first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 18, 2024 |
Photo – Justin Brown – Courtesy Bjorne Hoss Bruin Facebook
Former Saratoga Police Sergeant Justin Brown died last week from an sudden medical emergency.
On Wednesday, June 12th, Justin Micah Paul Brown died in a Colorado hotel room. Brown was 44 years old.
A Facebook post written by Brown’s fiancé Megan Kate states that the couple attended a concert in Red Rocks, Colorado. Kate writes that after the concert, Brown’s left leg swelled up, prompting Kate to ask if they should go to the hospital. Brown allegedly said his leg wasn’t bothering him and blamed the swelling on retaining water from traveling.
In her Facebook post, Kate writes that Brown collapsed soon after they returned to their hotel room. Kate said she performed CPR until paramedics arrived. After being worked on for over 45 minutes, Brown was pronounced dead.
In the summer of 2021, Brown was hired by the Saratoga Police Department. Around the same time, Brown started TYR K9 Training and Boarding north of Saratoga.
In February of 2022, Brown was arrested for allegedly threatening Carbon County Sheriff’s Deputy Ben Opfar. Brown was also accused of allowing a dog he was training to attack his ex-wife, Amanda Brown, and, on a separate occasion, their daughter, resulting in the child needing 18 stiches.
The alleged dog bites occurred in 2021. That December, the Carbon County Circuit Court issued a seizure warrant for the dog, named Shaw. Brown allegedly claimed that the dog had been moved out of state and threatened anyone who attempted to take Shaw. Sheriff’s Deputy Ben Opfar said due to Brown’s alleged threats, the warrant was not served at the time.
The following month, in January of 2022, Carbon County Prosecutor Ashley Davis issued a warrant for Brown’s arrest, citing the injuries his child sustained from the dog and threats made against Deputy Opfar. Brown was arrested and quickly released from custody on a $5,000 bond. Following his arrest, Brown was suspended from the Saratoga Police Department.
During the March 1st Saratoga town council meeting, Brown received a public hearing which, those in attendance said resembled a trial. Town Attorney Jane France served as prosecutor for the town, arguing that Brown should be terminated because of behavior unbecoming a police officer, including threats made to Carbon County Sheriff’s Deputy Sergeant Ben Opfar, who was trying to serve the warrant to seize the dog Shaw. France called Deputy Opfar and Police Chief Kenneth Lehr as witnesses. At the time, the criminal case against Brown had not gone to court.
Following the 90-minute-long hearing, the town council entered executive session. After calling the meeting back to order, the council unanimously voted to terminate Sergeant Brown.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102116/0618_Justin-Brown.mp3Two months later, Brown pled guilty to a misdemeanor count of interference with a peace officer and was sentenced to a year of probation and a $200 fine.
Brown, who had an extensive military background, continued to operate and run TYR K9 Training and Boarding after being dismissed from the Saratoga Police Department.
On April 30th of this year, Brown became engaged to his longtime girlfriend Megan Kate.
According to Brown’s Facebook page, he was a former Army Ranger, Spec Ops and SWAT tactical medicine instructor, and a medic for the private military contractor, Blackwater Worldwide.
As of the reporting of this story, no details have been given regarding funeral services for Brown.
The post Former Saratoga Police Sergeant Dies Unexpectedly first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 18, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga outdoor swimming pool – Bigfoot99 file photo
The town of Saratoga opens its outdoor swimming pool while it advertises an opening for a new recreation director.
During the May 21st Saratoga town council meeting, Recreation Director Kim Hemenway tendered her resignation. Hemenway said the job wasn’t what she expected.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102206/0618_Rec-Director-1.mp3Hemenway’s last day was June 14th.
At the June 4th Saratoga town council meeting, Hemenway provided the governing body with a flow chart showing the recreation director’s duties.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102214/0618_Rec-Director-2.mp3In her workflow chart, Hemenway broke down the recreation director duties into nine different categories, including handling gym memberships, managing staff, applying for grants, and overseeing various recreation programs.
Mayor Chuck Davis asked where on the flow chart Hemenway placed the duties of running the town’s outdoor swimming pool. The rec director said she included the pool with all the other programs she manages. Councilwoman Kathy Beck said the demands of operating the pool necessitates that it be placed in its own category.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102220/0618_Rec-Director-3.mp3Mayor Davis asked Hemenway about the status of the swimming pool. The rec director said the pool will be ready to open once the chemicals are dialed in. Hemingway said she will attempt to keep the swimming facility open as much as possible with the limited number of staff available.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102227/0618_Rec-Director-4.mp3Saratoga’s outdoor pool opened on June 12th. A schedule posted to the town’s Facebook page shows that the pool is open from noon to 6:00pm every day except for Fridays, when it closes at 3:00pm. The pool is also set to be closed on Thursdays.
Beginning yesterday, lap swimming will be offered from 9:30 to 11:00am until next Wednesday, June 26th.
Daily rates for the pool are $5 for each person between the ages of 18 and 64. Children 5 through 17 are $3 apiece. Seniors over 65 and children under 4 are free.
With Hemingway gone, the town is advertising for a new recreation director. A public notice posted in the local newspaper asks for an energetic, flexible, and strategic thinker, who can plan well and juggle many responsibilities. The recreation director is described as being responsible for organizing, directing and executing recreational activities and programs in the town. The rec director also develops, plans, and implements programs and activities, such as music, sports, and cultural events. On top of those duties, the rec director is also responsible for utilizing the established recreation facilities to promote and improve the quality of life for the residents of Saratoga. The salary is listed at between $38,000 and $44,000.
For more information about the recreation director position, call the Saratoga town hall at 326-8335.
The post Recreation Director Position Is Open In Saratoga first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 18, 2024 |
Photo – Cheat grass – Courtesy National Park Service
The first day of summer is Thursday. Fire season is here and the Bureau of Land Management has yet to announce a decision on the use of Indaziflam, a herbicide to control weeds.
Governor Mark Gordon criticized the Bureau for dragging its feet on using the chemical to fight cheat grass.
“The BLM’s sluggish approval process prevents Wyoming from utilizing one of the most effective tools against this cancer on rangeland. It represents yet another inconsistent approach to regulation and allows cheat grass to spread needlessly where federal agencies cannot align,” Governor Gordon said.
The governor noted the state’s ongoing battle against annual invasive grasses.
“We need all available tools to improve habitat for wildlife and reduce fire risk. Without the ability to use Indaziflam across land ownerships several large landscape-level treatments have been on hold, while cheat grass continues to spread,” the Governor added.
The BLM National NEPA register on herbicides was last updated April 18, 2024. It shows that the analysis and document preparation process is still “in progress.”
Cheat grass is aggressive and outcompetes beneficial grasses. The use of Indaziflam to improve habitat for wildlife and reduce fire risk is on hold until the BLM releases its decision.
Cheat grass is a noxious plant that outcompetes beneficial grasses on Wyoming landscapes. Cheat grass spreads its seeds aggressively and thrives in disturbed areas. The result is landscapes susceptible to fire.
The Wyoming Legislature approved $9 million for battling invasive plants this year, at the Governor’s request.
The governor chastised the bureau on Monday for its lack of responsiveness to control the species on the lands the agency controls in Wyoming.
The post BLM’s Slow Decision Making Has Wyoming Governor Concerned first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 18, 2024 |
Photo – Elk Mountain Museum – Courtesy Elk Mountain Museum
Plans are underway for the American Legion to build a memorial urn at the Elk Mountain Museum.
During its May 13th meeting, the Elk Mountain town council voted to allow the American Legion to build a war memorial on town property behind the museum building.
Local American Legion Commander Steve Bonner said he plans to construct an urn to respectfully dispose of tattered and ripped American flags. Bonner said the project is still in the planning phase, but is quickly picking up steam.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102124/0618_Legion-Memorial-1.mp3Bonner said he envisions the monument as a four-foot cube with an urn in the center. The American Legion Commander said a box will hold the flag ashes until they can be buried in a dignified manner. Bonner said he knows of hundreds of tattered flags that need to be properly disposed of.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102132/0618_Legion-Memorial-2.mp3Bonner said his initial plan was to construct the memorial at the Elk Mountain Cemetery. However, Bonner said the cemetery board denied his request to place the memorial near the large flagpole on the northeastern side of the graveyard.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102138/0618_Legion-Memorial-3.mp3A representative from the Elk Mountain Cemetery Board told Bigfoot99 that the board as a whole did not approve of the plan because of limited space by the flagpole and the difficulty of maintaining the memorial urn in the harsh weather conditions experienced at the cemetery.
Bonner said after searching around town for a suitable location to build the memorial urn, Elk Mountain Councilwoman and Museum Director Angie Hobbs gave her permission to use the museum grounds. The American Legion Commander said the location isn’t ideal, but members are doing their best to prepare the site for the memorial.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102144/0618_Legion-Memorial-4.mp3Bonner said he and the other Legion members haven’t settled on a final design for the memorial urn yet. Bonner said American Legion Auxiliary Member Joyce Menke is considering selling engraved bricks to finance the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102150/0618_Legion-Memorial-5.mp3Bonner said he expects the memorial urn to be built using mostly in-kind donations of labor. The American Legion Commander said a representative from Bloedorn Lumber in Laramie has agreed to donate construction material for the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/18102159/0618_Legion-Memorial-6.mp3Bonner said he believes the memorial urn will serve to increase community pride across the northern portion of Carbon County. However, the American Legion Commander said with only six members, the scope of the project must be kept in check.
Bonner said he does not know when the memorial will be built.
The post Memorial Urn To Be Built At Elk Mountain Museum first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 17, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins city council approved the upcoming fiscal year budget. During a special meeting held Thursday, the Rawlins city decided the 2024-25 fiscal year budget on its third reading. The budget provides the city with $15.1 million dollars in operating funds for the upcoming year.
During the meeting, City Manager Tom Sarvey detailed changes that occurred between the second and third reading of the budget. Sarvey said at the June 4th council meeting, council approved a five percent wage increase for all city employees. The city manager said he added an extra $300,000 of anticipated sales tax money into the budget to cover the pay raises.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111212/0617_Budget-Approved-1.mp3City Manager Sarvey said he set an eight-mil property tax levy, which Sarvey said, is estimated to bring in $575,000 over the upcoming fiscal year.
Last month, the city council approved an 80% increase to all water meter rates. Sarvey said the city’s water enterprise fund has been balanced using the projected revenue from the rate increase.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111219/0617_Budget-Approved-2.mp3Sarvey said the sewer fund is the same way. After the 59% sewer rate increase, Sarvey said the enterprise fund is breaking even. The city manager said the landfill enterprise fund generated $299,000 dollars. Sarvey said he now wants to replace an aging front-end loader at the city dump.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111225/0617_Budget-Approved-3.mp3Councilman Chris Weisenburg asked if Sarvey planned to lease or purchase the loader. Sarvey said he wants to lease the machine for now. The city manager said he’ll see if the landfill fund can cover the price to buy a front-end loader in the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111231/0617_Budget-Approved-4.mp3Councilman Darril Garner asked if the city could afford to replace the doors at the solid waste station. Councilman Garner said shutting off the landfill station will prevent large numbers of ravens from roosting there. City Manager Sarvey said the landfill fund contains enough money to buy new garage doors. However, Sarvey said he needs to ensure the funds won’t be needed for future projects first.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111237/0617_Budget-Approved-5.mp3In 2019, voters in Rawlins approved using the 6th Penny Tax to repave and replace utilities beneath Edinburgh Street. However, inflation has caused the price of the project to balloon from roughly $3 million three years ago to nearly $8 million today.
The city only asked for $12 million of 6th Penny Tax money in total. The Edinburgh Street project will use up most of the remaining special purpose tax money.
During Thursday’s special workshop, Councilman Weisenburg said they should also begin working on another, less expensive, 6th Penny project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111242/0617_Budget-Approved-6.mp3Councilman Weisenburg asked about the status of the Davis Street extension project. The previous city council set aside money to engineer an extension from Davis Street to Higley Boulevard. At the time, the council said the southern portion of the city is hard to access because Davis Street and Higley Boulevard do not intersect. The council decided that extending Davis Street into Higley Boulevard would be the easiest way to improve access into and out of the neighborhood.
City Manager Sarvey said engineering work on the Davis Street extension has been completed and he is looking for money to begin construction.
Councilman Garner said he originally supported the project. However, the councilman said he no longer thinks that the Davis Street extension is as important as other projects.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111250/0617_Budget-Approved-7.mp3Councilman Weisenburg said the city has already paid for the engineering. The councilman said extending Davis Street will make getting around the city easier.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111256/0617_Budget-Approved-8.mp3Both, Mayor Terry Weickum and Councilwoman Jacquelin Wells, agreed that the Davis Street extension project is worth finishing.
In the end, the entire Rawlins city council voted to approve the 2024 through 2025 fiscal year budget on the third and final reading.
The post Rawlins City Council Approves 2024/2025 Budget first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 17, 2024 |
Photo – Mugshot of DiGiorgio – Courtesy CCSO Detention Center
A Colorado man is sitting in the Carbon County jail after being arrested in Hanna on charges of stealing a semi-truck. The stolen truck then became stranded in a remote part of Carbon County.
Thirty-five-year-old Brice Andrew DiGiorgio, of Denver, is facing four felony counts in Carbon County District Court. DiGiorgio is facing three counts of theft and one for interference with a peace officer stemming from a crime spree in late May in which the suspect reportedly stole a semi-truck, a pick-up truck, and a t-shirt all in the same day. He was busy.
According to a written affidavit from Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper Caleb Hobbs, around 3:00pm on May 28th, Trooper Even Deneke received a BOLO, or Be on the Lookout, for a stolen, maroon-colored Mack truck. The BOLO reported the truck parked on Highway 30, east of Medicine Bow. The semi-truck was reported stolen out Commerce City, Colorado, earlier that morning.
Upon arriving at the scene, Trooper Deneke saw the Mack truck in a ditch on the side of the road. The trooper spotted boot prints in the dirt leading from the semi toward the town of Medicine Bow.
After a tow truck arrived to remove the Mack truck, Trooper Deneke left to pursue the suspect.
In his written statement, Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper Hobbs stated that around the same time Trooper Deneke was responding to the crashed semi-truck, the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office was investigating a Chevy pickup truck stolen out of Medicine Bow.
The white 2023 Chevrolet pickup was found crashed on a two-track road northeast of Hanna. Trooper Deneke and sheriff’s deputies suspected that the two incidents were related. However, after searching the area, the officers were not able to locate the suspect.
Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper Hobbs writes in his affidavit that at noon on the following day, May 29th, employees at The New Dingy Dan’s, now known as Mike’s Deuces, in Hanna reported a suspicious man to law enforcement. The man entered the bar and claimed to have been stranded in the sagebrush for multiple days and asked for an ambulance. Trooper Deneke suspected the man was the suspect who had stolen the semi-truck from Colorado and the pickup from Medicine Bow.
When Trooper Deneke arrived in Hanna, he saw a man wearing a JB’s Stop-N-Shop t-shirt and boots with a similar tread pattern to the prints the trooper had seen leaving the Mack truck the day before. The man claimed to be 25-year-old Matthew Seymore.
As officers attempted to figure out the man’s real identity, Trooper Deneke called the stolen Mack truck’s owner, Eric Shonka. Shonka provided Wyoming Highway Patrol with dash cam video of his truck being stolen. The man in the video matched the suspect sitting in the Hanna bar.
Meanwhile, sheriff’s deputies and highway patrol troopers retrieved security camera footage from JB’s Stop-N-Shop in Medicine Bow. According to Trooper Hobbs, the video showed the suspect leaving the store bathroom wearing the stolen t-shirt. The suspect’s original shirt, matching what was worn in the dash cam video, was found in JB’s bathroom.
The suspect, still going by the name Matthew Seymore, was taken to Memorial Hospital of Carbon County for medical evaluation. While being transported to the hospital, the suspect admitted that his name was actually Brice Andrew DiGiorgio and that he was born in 1988.
After being medically cleared, DiGiorgio was released from MHCC. Armed with the video evidence, Trooper Deneke placed the suspect under arrest and transported him to the Carbon County Jail.
According to the written affidavit of Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper Hobbs, while being questioned by Trooper Deneke, DiGiorgio admitted to the crimes, stating that he stole the Mack truck because people were after him and he feared for his life.
DiGiorgio allegedly told Trooper Deneke that after crashing the semi-truck on Highway 30, he walked into Medicine Bow where he stole the t-shirt from JB’s Stop-N-Shop. After leaving the store, DiGiorgio said he stole the Chevy truck from a house in town and crashed it on a trail northeast of Hanna.
Court documents state that DiGiorgio said after crashing the truck, he hid overnight in the sagebrush. The following morning, hungry and thirsty, the suspect said he walked to the bar in Hanna asked for assistance.
On May 31st, Carbon County Prosecutor Sarah Chavez Harkins charged DiGiorgio with three counts of theft: one for the Mack-truck, one for the Chevy pickup, and one for the JB’s Stop-N-Shop t-shirt. On top of the three theft charges, Prosecutor Chavez Harkins also charged DiGiorgio with interference with a peace officer for providing a false name.
DiGiorgio is being held in the Carbon County Jail on $20,000 cash only bond. The suspect has not been scheduled a court date yet.
The post Colorado Man Arrested On Three Counts Of Theft first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 17, 2024 |
Photo – Dunk Tank poster – Courtesy Jamie Lee
Saratoga residents can dunk Carbon County School District Number Two parents and staff on the Fourth of July courtesy of the middle high school volleyball team.
At the June 4th Saratoga town council meeting, Saratoga Middle High School Volleyball Coach Jamie Lee presented the fundraising idea: a dunk tank. Lee asked the governing body to allow her and the middle high school volleyball team to set up a dunk tank in the town hall parking lot.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111302/0617_Dunk-Tank-1.mp3Lee said she has several people lined up to volunteer to be dunked, including Carbon County School District Number Two Superintendent Darrin Jennings. Councilwoman Kathy Beck joked about dunking Mayor Chuck Davis. Mayor Davis did not approve of Councilwoman Beck’s idea.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111309/0617_Dunk-Tank-2.mp3Mayor Davis asked Lee how long she needed the town hall parking lot to be closed. Lee said she planned to run the event from 9:00am to 4:00pm.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111314/0617_Dunk-Tank-3.mp3Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris said he’ll block off the parking lot early on the morning of the 4th to prevent people from using the parking area.
Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Amanda Knotwell encouraged people to park across the street from town hall, at the Platte Valley Community Center.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17111318/0617_Dunk-Tank-4.mp3The Saratoga town council voted to allow the Saratoga Middle High School volleyball team to use the town hall parking lot to set up a dunk tank on the Fourth of July.
The post Fundraiser Will Cause CCSD#2 Staff To Be Soaked first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 14, 2024 |
Photo – River Flooding table – Courtesy NWS – Riverton
The National Weather Service said yesterday that barring a major rain event, the risk of flooding in Wyoming has passed this year. During Thursday’s final Wyoming flood report for this year, Riverton Warning Coordination Meteorologist Lance VandenBoogart said most of the snow has already melted across the state. However, the weatherman said enough snow exists in the mountains to present a flood risk if significant rainfall occurs. VandenBoogart said no heavy rain is predicted.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153612/0614_Flood-Report-1.mp3VandenBoogart said nearly all the snow below 9,000 feet has already melted. In the higher elevations, the meteorologist said the Sierra Madre and Snowy Range Mountains still have over a foot of snow water equivalent.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153616/0614_Flood-Report-2.mp3VandenBoogart said the snowpack in the Upper North Platte Basin is average for this time of year. The meteorologist said his data shows no indications of any upcoming flooding.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153620/0614_Flood-Report-3.mp3VandenBoogart said the North Platte River has crested. Assuming our area does not receive heavy rainfall in the coming week, the meteorologist said the water level will continue to drop.
VandenBoogart said he thinks our area made it through this year’s flood season without any serious problems.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153624/0614_Flood-Report-4.mp3VandenBoogart said his weather models are showing warm temperatures and little to no rainfall in the next couple of weeks. However, VandenBoogart said a heavy rain event may still cause major flooding. The meteorologist encouraged people to continue to monitor the weather forecast.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153627/0614_Flood-Report-5.mp3VandenBoogart said the risk of flooding appears to be behind us.
The post National Weather Service Says Any Chance Of Flooding Is Low first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 14, 2024 |
Photo – Mayor Pro-Tem Nordquist swears in new Hanna Marshal Dan Starr – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
The Town of Hanna has a new Marshal after a long vacancy.
For the past year and a half, the town of Hanna has been without a marshal. The previous marshal, Ted Kranenberg left to join the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office in March of 2023.
Since then, the town has been searching for a replacement. Hanna’s governing body blamed the lack of qualified candidates on the town’s remote location and the job’s apparently low wages.
The search for a new Hanna marshal has finally come to an end. During Tuesday’s Hanna town council meeting, Memorial Hospital of Carbon County Emergency Department Manager Dan Starr was sworn in as the part-time marshal by Mayor Pro Tem Jayson Nordquist.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153629/0614_Hanna-Marshal-1.mp3Marshal Starr also serves as a part-time police officer for the town of Saratoga and will continue to hold that position, as well.
Also at Tuesday’s Hanna town council meeting, Councilman Roger Hawks resigned his seat on the council to become Marshal Starr’s part-time deputy. Mayor Nordquist read Hawks’s letter of resignation.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153632/0614_Hanna-Marshal-2.mp3Hanna Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales said either Marshal Starr or Deputy Marshal Hawks will respond to in-town emergency 911 calls. If neither officer is available, Clerk Gonzales said the sheriff’s department will send someone out.
The Hanna town council thanked Marshal Starr for agreeing to police the town and Deputy Marshal Hawks for his time on the council.
The town is now accepting letters of interest for Hawks’ former council seat. The term expires in 2026. Clerk Gonzales asked residents to submit their letters of interest by July 5th.
The post There Is A New Marshal In Town….Of Hanna first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 14, 2024 |
Photo – Congressional Baseball For Charity logo – Courtesy Facebook
In Washington, D.C. on Thursday, Wyoming Senator John Barrasso stood to the right of presidential candidate Donald Trump following a meeting with the National Republican Senatorial Committee. Wyoming junior Senator Cynthia Lummis also stood at the podium as the former president delivered remarks following their meeting. Trump vowed to restore “common sense” to Washington politics.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153608/0614_Donald-Trump-1.mp3Senator Barrasso played a role in putting yesterday’s meeting together. Also in the meeting were National Republican Senate Committee Chairman Steve Daines of Montana, and Senators Josh Hawley of Missouri, J.D. Vance—Ohio, Roger Marshall—Kentucky, Ted Cruz—Texas, and Chuck Grassley—Iowa.
Republicans have an opportunity to put together a strong majority in the senate. Currently, Democrats and the independents who caucus with them hold a one seat 51-49 majority over Republicans. The GOP would need a net gain of one seat to take control of the upper chamber, which would give a Republican vice-president a tie-breaking vote.
Earlier Thursday in Washington, D.C., Trump met with House Republicans at the Capitol Hill Club.
The meeting was described variously as “high-energy” and “unifying.”
Yesterday’s meetings followed Wednesday’s Congressional Baseball Game, in which Republicans trounced Democrats 31-11. Republican Team manager Rep. Roger Williams (R-TX) gifted Trump, who celebrates his 78th birthday today, with a ball and bat from the contest.
The post Trump Vows To Restore Common Sense In Washington Politics first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 14, 2024 |
Photo – Several members of the emergency dispatch community in Carbon County – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Representatives from Carbon County’s three emergency call centers held their first public meeting to discuss the future of dispatching in the area. On Wednesday evening, the Saratoga town council and representatives from the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office, and the Saratoga and Rawlins Police Departments gathered in the Platte Valley Community Center. The presenters explained to a crowd of roughly 30 attendees, mostly made up of county emergency and law enforcement officers and Saratoga residents, why emergency dispatching services in Carbon County need to change.
Last November, Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris informed the town council that his department could no longer provide 24-hour emergency call coverage due to a lack of staffing. The town then signed a memorandum of understanding with the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office to have a dispatcher from the county cover the Saratoga call center when necessary.
At Wednesday’s meeting, Sheriff Alex Bakken said Saratoga’s staffing issues caused him to consider alternative ways to provide dispatching services throughout the county.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153536/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-1.mp3Last month, Sheriff Bakken announced the formation of a Combined Dispatch Operations Collaborative Working Group between himself, Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris, and Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward. The sheriff said the idea for Wednesday’s public informational meeting came from the working group.
Saratoga Police Chief Morris said his department began having serious staffing issues last July. By November, Chief Morris said it became clear that he was going to need help from the sheriff’s office to continue offering emergency dispatching services for the Platte Valley.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153540/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-2.mp3Chief Morris said since last year, he has had success in recruiting more dispatchers and police officers to his department. However, the police chief said Saratoga’s dispatchers are using unreliable and outdated equipment.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153542/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-3.mp3Chief Morris said he needs approximately $700,000 to purchase up-to-date dispatching equipment for Saratoga’s call center.
Because the town’s budget will not cover such a large expense, Chief Morris said he began talking to Sheriff Bakken about combining Saratoga’s dispatching services with the county’s. The police chief said the conversation evolved toward bringing all three of the county’s dispatch centers under one roof.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153545/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-4.mp3Chief Morris said new dispatching equipment must be purchased every five to seven years.
Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward said the Combined Dispatch Operations Collaborative Working Group was formed to investigate what, if any, changes need to be made to the county’s emergency dispatching services. Chief Ward said the group will consider all available options, not just a combined dispatching center.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153548/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-5.mp3Carbon County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Supervisor Tracy Newbrough said she was initially against the idea of creating a combined emergency call center. However, Newbrough said recruiting new dispatchers is getting more and more difficult.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153551/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-6.mp3County Fire Warden John Rutherford was in audience and asked if the Combined Dispatch Working Group had conducted a feasibility study to ensure that a single county-wide call center will work in Carbon County. Sheriff Bakken said he began looking into a feasibility study when the MOU with Saratoga was first created. The sheriff said a lot more research needs to be done.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153553/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-7.mp3Fire Warden Rutherford said budgets aren’t getting any higher. A combined dispatch center may be needed to continue providing emergency call services using the available funds.
Rawlins Police Chief Ward said contrary to what most people think, agencies that have created a combined dispatch center say it isn’t any less expensive to run.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153555/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-8.mp3An attendee at Wednesday’s meeting asked if having a combined dispatch center will speed up emergency response times. Sheriff Bakken said in theory, time would be saved by routing all emergency calls through one facility.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153558/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-9.mp3Rawlins Police Department Dispatch Supervisor Valeta Rodabaugh disagreed with the sheriff. Rodabaugh said the Rawlins dispatch center is very efficient at transferring calls between agencies.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153601/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-10.mp3Former Saratoga Councilman Jon Nelson said he has had two concerns about the creation of a joint dispatching center.
Nelson said moving dispatch services into the sheriff’s department may eliminate needed jobs in Saratoga and reduce the level of familiarity dispatchers have with the Platte Valley.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/14153604/0614_Dispatch-Meeting-11.mp3Despite his concerns, Nelson said a single county-wide emergency call center appears to be the only financially viable alternative to running three separate dispatch centers.
The presenters said a combined dispatch center may be needed to help alleviate staffing shortages and the increasing cost associated with the current system. However, everyone was quick to point out that nothing has been decided. The county and town representatives said they are just beginning to investigate ways to improve emergency dispatching services in Carbon County.
The presenters said they will continue to host public informational workshops in the future, although no date has been set for the next combined dispatch meeting.
The Saratoga emergency dispatch center costs roughly 10% of the town’s entire budget.
The post Future Of Emergency Dispatch In County Discussed At Wednesday Evening Meeting first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 13, 2024 |
Photo – Hanna Recreation Center – Bigfoot99 file photo
After months of expecting the inevitable, the announcement came Tuesday night in Hanna. The town will close its struggling recreation center at the end of July.
During Tuesday’s Hanna town council meeting, Mayor Pro-Tem Jayson Nordquist said after careful deliberation, the council chose to shutter the Hanna Recreation Center.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110415/0613_Hanna-Pool-1.mp3The decision to close the recreation center should not come as a surprise for Hanna residents. The governing body has been very vocal about the financial strain the oversized facility puts on the town.
Built in 1982 by the Carbon County Coal Company, the recreation center was designed to attract coal miners and their families to Hanna. Complete with a large pool, gymnasium, weight rooms, and a racket ball court, the facility was designed to cater to thousands of residents.
The town was gifted the rec center in the early 2000’s after the last coal mines closed. Since that time, the population of Hanna has dropped to less than 700 residents. A lower population means less tax revenue and fewer members using the recreation center.
Financial reports provided by the town show that the facility costs roughly $300,000 a year to run: money that the governing body said would be better spent on filling potholes and keeping the town’s water system functional.
Back at Tuesday’s Hanna town council meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Nordquist said the building will be maintained so the town can reopen it in the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110418/0613_Hanna-Pool-2.mp3The town has installed security cameras around the building and will board up any unsecured doors. The council said they want to keep the structure safe from vandals in case they can reopen the facility or someone wants to buy the building.
Former Hanna Recreation Director Mike Armstrong said despite claims made by the former mayor, Jon Ostling, state legislators have not given up on finding help for the small town. Mayor Pro Tem Nordquist said he is tired of hearing Armstrong’s empty promises.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110420/0613_Hanna-Pool-3.mp3Mayor Nordquist said the Hanna Recreation Center was constructed at a time when the town had a much larger population. With much fewer residents now, the mayor said state law makers aren’t willing to sink money into such a large facility.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110422/0613_Hanna-Pool-4.mp3Last August, in an attempt to take the financial burden of the rec center off the town’s budget, Hanna officials looked into turning the facility into a 501(c)(3) organization. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the rec center must generate at least 33% of its operational cost through membership fees to be eligible for non-profit status. At that time, only 11% of the cost to run the rec center was generated through memberships.
Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales said the rec center will close to the public at the end of July, after King Coal Days. Clerk Gonzales asked for volunteers to help her give the facility a proper send off. The clerk said the town plans to periodically allow special events to be held in the building.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110425/0613_Hanna-Pool-5.mp3The town’s current recreation director, Kim Connolly, is resigning this Friday. Clerk Gonzales said the town will try to keep the rec center open as much as possible until the end of July. However, the clerk said having only one employee means the schedule may be inconsistent.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110427/0613_Hanna-Pool-6.mp3Clerk Gonzales said the town will see if Carbon County School District Number Two wants any of the sports equipment in the rec center. Whatever is left over will be auctioned off by the town, said the clerk.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110430/0613_Hanna-Pool-7.mp3The council motioned to permanently close the recreation center. Attendees informed the governing body that permanently means forever. The council opted to use the word indefinitely instead.
As of July 31st, the Hanna Recreation Center will be closed indefinitely.
The post Hanna Will Close Recreation Center At The End Of July first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 13, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
It’s a sign of the times: The City of Rawlins will provide less money to non-profit and ancillary organizations in the upcoming fiscal year.
Every year, non-profit and charity organizations request money from the Rawlins government. This year, 13 organizations have submitted applications totaling $216,000, including the Carbon County Economic Development Corporation, Boys and Girls Club, and Pet Partners.
During the June 4th Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Sarvey said this year, only $200,750 will be set aside from the upcoming budget to support the non-profits.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110433/0613_Rawlins-Non-Profits-1.mp3City Manager Sarvey said the council agreed to provide 10% less money to the non-profits during earlier budget discussions. Sarvey said some of the organizations are requesting more money than the city is able to give.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110436/0613_Rawlins-Non-Profits-2.mp3Eight of the 13 non-profit organizations will receive less funding than they requested.
The Carbon County Economic Development Corporation asked the city for $15,000 this fiscal year. However, Rawlins has chosen to give them $13,500. The largest disparity is with Pet Partners of Carbon County. The animal rescue requested $15,000 from the city but is only going to receive $9,000.
Carbon County COVE is the only organization that will receive more than it asked for. The domestic violence shelter requested $12,500 this year. The organization will receive $13,500, perhaps a reflection of the hard social times in the city.
At the June 4th Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Sarvey said in the past, the non-profit organizations would come before the council to explain their funding requests. However, Sarvey said time won’t allow for that to happen this year. The city manager said the council can ask to hear from the non-profits in the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110439/0613_Rawlins-Non-Profits-3.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum said that, if necessary, the council can make budget adjustments at that time.
The post Non-Profits And Ancillary Groups Receive Less Money From City Of Rawlins first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 13, 2024 |
Photo – Medicine Bow park off of Cottonwood Street – Courtesy Google Maps
The return of the drive-in movie. The Medicine Bow Recreation Board is preparing to show free drive-in movies at the public park in town.
During Monday’s Medicine Bow town council meeting, Recreation Board member Jacque George requested authorization to install support columns for an outdoor theater screen at the public park on Cottonwood Street. George said the rec board intends to screen free movies for the community.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110356/0613_Drive-in-Theater-1.mp3George said the rec board will not charge people to attend the drive-in theater screenings. She said the recreation board will make money through concession sales, instead.
Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer said the football field at the park can accommodate roughly 50 vehicles. However, Councilwoman Wickizer said the rec board doesn’t expect more than 10 or so people to attend each movie screening.
Acting Medicine Bow Fire Chief Ed Standish said the public park on Cottonwood Street is used by Classic Air Medical to land their medivac helicopters. So the screen cannot interfere with the landing zone.
The acting fire chief said the town also must create an evacuation plan in case an emergency helicopter must land during a film screening.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110359/0613_Drive-in-Theater-2.mp3Acting Fire Chief Standish said Classic Air typically provides a 25-minute warning before they land in town. Rec board member George said they will have plenty of time to clear the field of vehicles.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110402/0613_Drive-in-Theater-3.mp3Councilwoman Wickizer said the movie screen support masts will not be higher than the existing announcer’s booth, referred to as the crow’s nest.
Mayor Justin George suggested installing a windsock on top of the movie screen support pillars to help the medivac helicopter pilots land.
A resident asked how loud the movie audio will be played. Councilwoman Wickizer said sound will be piped through a Bluetooth receiver into an FM transmitter. Mayor George said the transmitter will ensure that only those who want to hear the movie can do so.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110404/0613_Drive-in-Theater-4.mp3Rec Board Member George said the FM transmitter will allow the board to screen less-than-family-friendly movies. George said the screen will also be set up facing away from the center of town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110407/0613_Drive-in-Theater-5.mp3Councilwoman Wickizer said the town will need to board up the broken windows in the crow’s nest announcer’s booth to prevent roosting birds from damaging the movie screen. The councilwoman also asked for a hole in the nearby concession stand to be fixed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110410/0613_Drive-in-Theater-6.mp3Rec board member George said the board intends to use the existing concession stand to sell drinks and snacks during movie screenings. George said the building suits the rec board’s needs.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110412/0613_Drive-in-Theater-7.mp3Councilwoman Wickizer said Town Attorney Cameron Smith’s law firm, Pence and MacMillian, donated $500 toward the drive-in theater project. The councilwoman also said the plywood to cover the crow’s nest windows will be donated by a resident.
The Medicine Bow town council voted to approve the installation of two 24-foot poles to support the drive-in movie theater screen and allow the recreation board to clean the concession stand.
No date was given for the first movie screening.
The post Drive-In Theater Coming Soon To Public Park In Medicine Bow first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 13, 2024 |
Photo – Alcova Resort Marina – Courtesy Alcova Resort Marina
After last year’s devastating Fourth of July fire, the Alcova Resort Marina is nearly back to its pre-fire status. At approximately 5:00a.m. on July 4th, 2023, a fire broke out at the Alcova Resort. General Partner Russ Mason described that tragic night.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110857/0612_Alcoca-Fire-1.mp3Mason said he rushed to the resort as quickly as he could. When he and General Manager Sam Marion got to the scene, they could see that the building was a total loss.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110900/0612_Alcoca-Fire-2.mp3Mason said Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms has listed the cause of the fire as arson. However, Mason said he can’t be sure how the fire started.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110903/0612_Alcoca-Fire-3.mp3Following the fire, Mason said the Alcova Resort hosted a party. The general partner said the event helped the community accept the loss of the seventy-plus-year-old marina building.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110907/0612_Alcoca-Fire-4.mp3Now, nearly a year after the devastating fire, the Alcova Resort Marina is close to being fully operational once again. Mason said thanks to the efforts of his construction team, the resort restaurant is gearing up to reopen soon.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110910/0612_Alcoca-Fire-5.mp3Mason said he expects to have the Alcova Resort grand reopening sometime this summer. In the meantime, Mason said people can still visit the resort for fun times.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/13110912/0612_Alcoca-Fire-6.mp3Mason encouraged people to come out to the Alcova Resort and see the work he and his team have been doing to restore the historic facility. The Alcova Resort is located at 24025 Lakeshore Drive in Alcova. Call 472-6666 for more information.
The post Alcova Resort Marina Nearly Back To Pre-Fire Status first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 12, 2024 |
Photo – Recovered Lamborghinis – Courtesy WHP
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers arrested two men last month in stolen Lamborghinis outside Rawlins.
On Sunday morning May 26 around 11:35 a.m., Highway Patrol troopers, based in Rawlins, received a complaint about two stolen Lamborghinis headed east towards Carbon County on Interstate 80. An article in the Cowboy State Daily lists the cars as a 2019 white Huracán Roadster and a 2015 green Aventador. Both were rented in Utah.
Highway Patrol Trooper Ryan Gerdes told Bigfoot99 that ONYX Rentals in North Salt Lake City, Utah, reported that two male suspects rented the Lamborghinis. The drivers were reported to have left Utah in violation of the contract with ONYX. The suspects also exceeded the allowable miles on their rental agreement. They also were speeding.
ONYX employees called the suspects and demanded they return the two sports cars. However, the two men disconnected the vehicles’ GPS trackers, preventing the rental company from tracking their location.
Trooper Gerdes writes that Highway Patrol troopers stopped the two Lamborghinis at milepost 216 heading eastbound on I-80.
The troopers discovered the drivers, identified as 35-year-old Andrew Blackman and 32-year-old Dassman Fadil, had used false names to rent the vehicles. After confirming the vehicles were reported stolen, troopers arrested Blackman and Fadil for possession of stolen property.
The two suspects are currently being held at the Carbon County Detention Center. Each man is facing one count of felony theft, which carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Troopers also seized a tablet and three phones as part of the investigation.
The rental car company estimated the value of the white Lamborghini at $343,000 and the green Lamborghini at $243,000.
Trooper Gerdes writes that the Wyoming Highway Patrol gratefully acknowledges the assistance of the Rawlins Police Department on this investigation.
Both Blackman and Fadil were seen in Carbon County District Court last Thursday. A call to the district court revealed that neither suspect has been set a new hearing date at this time.
The post WHP Arrest Two Lamborghini Thieves Outside Of Rawlins first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 12, 2024 |
Photo – Black tailed prairie dog – Courtesy Pixabay
Medicine Bow officials consider holding a shooting event to control the town’s out-of-control prairie dog population.
During Monday night’s Medicine Bow town council meeting, resident Betsy Willoughby asked the governing body to do something about prairie dogs. Willoughby said the burrowing rodents have infiltrated significant portions of the town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12100803/0612_Prairie-Dogs-1.mp3They may appear innocent-looking. Large numbers of prairie dog burrows, however, can weaken soil, leading to erosion and compromising the structural integrity of nearby roads and buildings.
Willoughby said the rodents can also spread dangerous diseases around town. The Medicine Bow resident asked the council to act.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12100807/0612_Prairie-Dogs-2.mp3Mayor Justin George asked Public Works Director Brian Lashley if he could become state-certified to kill the prairie dogs. Lashley said the licensing process is lengthy and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department must authorize all extermination efforts.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12100811/0612_Prairie-Dogs-3.mp3Lashley said Game and Fish is concerned about using toxins to kill the rodents due to the risk of second-hand poisoning. The public works director said the town can use a specialized CO2 pump to asphyxiate the prairie dogs. However, Lashley said Game and Fish is worried about harming other types of animals that live in abandoned prairie dog burrows.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12100815/0612_Prairie-Dogs-4.mp3Lashley said in the past, he contacted an exterminator in Laramie to handle the prairie dog problem, but the extiminator turned out to be too expensive. The public works director said the exterminator informed him about the licensing test. However, Lashley said he is unlikely to obtain an exterminator license in the near future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12100818/0612_Prairie-Dogs-5.mp3The Medicine Bow town council asked Lashley to work on getting his exterminator license.
In the meantime, Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer suggested having the town’s recreation board sponsor a prairie dog shoot. Councilwoman Wickizer said existing ordinances banning the use of firearms within town limits would need to be suspended first.
Mayor George said high-powered air or pellet guns would make a good alternative to a traditional firearm for killing prairie dogs. Even using air rifles, Mayor George said he is uncomfortable with the risk of having the town sponsor a shooting event. The mayor said he preferred arming town employees with pellet guns to limit the town’s liability.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12100820/0612_Prairie-Dogs-6.mp3Councilwoman Wickizer said the prairie dog population is too large for the already overtaxed public works department to handle.
Town Attorney Cameron Smith said Medicine Bow town ordinance forbids the firing of all guns, including air guns, within town limits.
Attorney Smith added that the ordinance makes an exception for town organized shooting sports events.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12100823/0612_Prairie-Dogs-7.mp3Mayor George said the council must do more research before authorizing a prairie dog hunt on town property. The council asked Public Works Director Lashley to continue working to get his license and look for a less costly local exterminator.
The post Medicine Bow Officials Discuss Prairie Dog Problem first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 10, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
After serious debate last week, the Rawlins city council voted to increase city employee salaries across the board. During the first reading of the 2024-25 fiscal year budget, the Rawlins city council asked if was possible to increase the salaries of city workers.
City Manager Tom Sarvey had an answer for the governing body’s question. Sarvey said he initially suggested that the city use $300,000 saved by switching health insurance providers to pay for the raises.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102701/0610_Rawlins-Raises-1.mp3Currently, the city pays for employees’ medical expenses. Sarvey suggested changing to the Wyoming Educators Benefit Trust insurance program to save roughly $300,000 a year.
However, Sarvey explained to the council that the $300,000 savings was needed to help the city cover a $2.3 million budget deficit. The city manager said the money is no longer available to cover employee raises.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102704/0610_Rawlins-Raises-2.mp3Sarvey said adding $300,000 to employee salaries would equate to a five percent pay raise across the board. The city manager suggested using the additional revenue generated from wind turbine construction projects to cover the cost of the raises.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102707/0610_Rawlins-Raises-3.mp3Sarvey said the wind turbine projects are expected to last for five years. The city will need to figure out how to pay for the raises once the projects are completed, said Sarvey, essentially kicking the problem down the road.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102710/0610_Rawlins-Raises-4.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum said he expects the city to receive additional income from the wind turbines long after the current projects are finished. Using that money, Mayor Weickum said the city can sustain the additional money needed to sustain the employee salaries.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102713/0610_Rawlins-Raises-5.mp32024 is an election year. Weickum is running for election to represent State House District 15.
Councilwoman Jacquelin Wells said she supports a cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA. However, Councilwoman Wells said instead of everyone receiving a five percent raise, the city should perform a salary study to ensure that employees are being paid the correct amount.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102715/0610_Rawlins-Raises-6.mp3City Manager Sarvey asked the council if they would like to approve the five percent pay increase and schedule a salary study in the future or delay employee raises until the salary study is completed. Mayor Weickum and Councilwomen Wells and Tonya Lewman all agreed that they should approve the salary increase first.
Councilman Chris Weisenburg said he doesn’t support a five percent raise for all city employees. Councilman Weisenburg said they can not be sure that the wind turbine projects will contribute enough money to indefinitely pay for the increased salaries.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102719/0610_Rawlins-Raises-7.mp3Councilman Weisenburg said he supports a cost-of-living adjustment, but said the city should perform a salary study before moving forward with salary increases to ensure they aren’t overpaying certain employees.
Mayor Weickum said the pay raise will barely cover the toll inflation has had on city employees. The mayor said he supports the increase.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102721/0610_Rawlins-Raises-8.mp3Councilman Weisenburg asked what services councilmembers would discontinue if the wind turbine money doesn’t continue past five years. Mayor Weickum said no one on the council can predict the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102724/0610_Rawlins-Raises-9.mp3Vice Mayor Steve Sanger said rising inflation drives up the amount of sales tax collected by the city. Vice Mayor Sanger said he expects to continue receiving higher-than-predicted sales tax revenue for the foreseeable future. The increased sales tax should easily offset the cost of employee raises, said the vice mayor.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102730/0610_Rawlins-Raises-10.mp3Councilman Weisenburg said the proposed budget shows that the city hasn’t received additional inflation-related sales tax revenue. The councilman said he’s concerned that by approving the raises now, the city may have to cut services in the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102732/0610_Rawlins-Raises-11.mp3Councilwoman Wells said the city needs to do something to entice employees to stay. The councilwoman said a five percent pay raise will help offset the impact inflation has had on city employees.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102735/0610_Rawlins-Raises-12.mp3Mayor Weickum predicted that the city’s tax base will continue to grow into the future. The mayor said he is comfortable gambling on sustained growth to pay for the employee salary increase.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102737/0610_Rawlins-Raises-13.mp3After a lengthy discussion, the Rawlins city council voted to approve the next fiscal year’s budget, including the five percent city employee raise. The budget will be read for a third and final time during a special meeting on Thursday, June 13th.
The post Rawlins Officials Discuss Pay Raises For City Employees first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 10, 2024 |
Photo – Hobo Hot Pool – Bigfoot99 file photo
Get paid to soak your bones. The Wyoming Office of Tourism is looking for local talent to be featured in a promotional video about the Town of Saratoga.
During last week’s Saratoga town council meeting, Town Clerk Jennifer Anderson said she received a letter from Halle Bender at New Thought Digital Agency, a Jackson Hole-based digital marketing company.
Mayor Chuck Davis explained that the Wyoming Office of Tourism is filming a new video showcasing Wyoming attractions. Mayor Davis said the state agency would like to record people enjoying the Hobo Hot Springs for the promotional material.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102740/0610_Tourism-Film-1.mp3Mayor Davis said participants will be paid for their time. The mayor encouraged residents to come to the hot pool and be featured in the tourism video.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/10102742/0610_Tourism-Film-2.mp3Town Clerk Anderson told Bigfoot99 that New Thought Digital Agency is scheduled to film in Saratoga on June 16th and 17th. The town clerk said the production company is specifically requesting families of three or four members to be featured at the Hobo Hot Springs.
Anyone interested in taking part in next week’s promotional filming should call the Saratoga town hall at 326-8335 or visit 110 East Spring Avenue in person.
The post Wyoming Office Of Tourism Looking For Family For Promo Video first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 10, 2024 |
Photo – Area of collapse on Highway 22 over Teton Pass – Courtesy Teton County
Aerial photos and a drone video provided by WYDOT show the devastation along a section of Wyoming Highway 22 over Teton pass. A large chunk of both lanes of the mountain road collapsed on Saturday, leaving a gaping chasm down the hillside below the spot where milepost 12.8 once stood.
Governor Mark Gordon issued an Executive Order declaring an emergency in response to the catastrophic failure of the important route.
Multiple mudslides led to the catastrophic structural failure of the roadway. The governor’s declaration will help the state access additional resources from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to begin the substantial repairs required.
Mudslide – Courtesy Teton CountyIn a release on Saturday, Governor Gordon said, “We are closely monitoring this ongoing situation, and Wyoming Department of Transportation personnel are working diligently to develop a long-term solution to rebuild this critical roadway.”
The emergency declaration also notes that the catastrophic slide endangers the health, safety, economy, and resources of the residents of Wyoming.”
The section that failed first drew attention Thursday last week when a crack and drop in the road contributed to the crash of a motorcycle.
Cracks in Highway 22 showed up last Thursday - Courtesy Teton County
Geologists and engineers who were sent to the area that day noticed “that crack and that drop started to move a lot,” said Stephanie Harsha, a spokesperson for District 3 of the Wyoming Department of Transportation. A paving crew temporarily patched the road, and traffic began moving again that night.
The fix was short-lived. Maintenance crews were sent to respond to a mudslide a couple of miles away in the pre-dawn hours of Friday, prompting the road to be closed once again.
No estimate on a possible completion date for repair of the roadway has been issued. WYDOT will issue ongoing updates about the catastrophic failure. Video footage of the current condition of the roadway may be viewed here.
The Governor’s Executive Order may be found here.
The post Highway 22 Over Teton Pass Collapses first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 7, 2024 |
Photo – North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo
The National Weather Service said the North Platte River will continue to rise with the potential to cause minor flooding before receding. Late spring and early summer are peak flood seasons for the valley. Winter snowpack in the mountains begins to melt and flow into the rivers, producing the annual threat of flooding.
For the last seven weeks, the National Weather Service in Wyoming has held meetings to discuss the latest snowpack totals and flood forecasts. During yesterday’s online meeting, Cheyenne Senior Hydrologist Tony Anderson said snowfalls, temperature, and rain all contribute to the potential for flooding.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110553/0607_Flood-Report-1.mp3Anderson said temperatures over the next week are expected to be above average. The senior hydrologist said the trend is not expected to change in the near future. Anderson said our area may see rain, but not a significant amount.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110555/0607_Flood-Report-2.mp3Anderson said most of the state is expected to experience drought conditions over the summer.
Snowpack in the mountains across most of Wyoming is dwindling, said Anderson. The chief hydrologist said almost every mountain range in the state is expected to have little or no snowpack left by the end of this week. However, Anderson said the Snowy Range is an exception.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110558/0607_Flood-Report-3.mp3While most basins across the state have two or less inches of snow water equivalent left, Anderson said the Upper North Platte Basin the exception with 10 inches of high country snowpack. The hydrologist said the North Platte and Encampment Rivers are likely to rise slightly above the minor flood stage of 8.5 feet.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110601/0607_Flood-Report-4.mp3Anderson said the Medicine Bow and Little Laramie Rivers are predicted to reach action stage, at six and five feet respectively.
Using his current weather simulations, Anderson said the North Platte and Encampment Rivers show a 10% chance of reaching flood stage. The chief hydrologist said his forecast models do not take into account heavy snowmelt that occurred earlier this week. Anderson said both rivers are more likely to have a 50% chance of reaching the minor flood stage.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110603/0607_Flood-Report-5.mp3Despite high water levels, Anderson said he has no major concerns about flooding. The chief hydrologist said the North Platte River is only expected to rise slightly above the minor flood level.
The National Weather Service has scheduled one more flood meeting this season. Bigfoot99 will continue to monitor the local rivers for flooding and report back with any information.
The post NWS Advises Minor Flooding Possible In Platte Valley first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 7, 2024 |
Photo – Encampment River in Riverside – Bigfoot99 file photo
The National Weather Service in Cheyenne on Thursday afternoon issued a “Flood Watch” for the Encampment River in effect through this weekend.
According to the flood watch bulletin, flooding is possible from late Friday through early Sunday afternoon on the Encampment River at Encampment.
The National Weather Service notes that flooding occurs over the lower campsites along the river at Lazy Acres Campground in Riverside.
Minor flooding could also occur over the Oddfellows Campground and along Baggot Rocks Road.
The flood watch is in effect from this evening through Sunday afternoon.
The post NWS Cheyenne Issues Flood Watch For Encampment River first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 7, 2024 |
Photo – Commonly used lift station – Courtesy Xylem
The Saratoga town council has agreed to the construction of a new sewer system at Shively Field.
At Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Public Works Director Emery Penner said Shively Field lacks adequate sewer services. Penner said the Airport Advisory Board considered connecting to the town’s sewer main, located across Highway 130. However, the public director said the project will be too costly.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110543/0607_Airport-Sewer-Project-1.mp3To avoid spending upwards of $400,000 to tunnel under Highway 130, Penner said the Airport Advisory Board opted for a lift station. A sewer lift station transports wastewater from lower to higher elevations. Penner said the Impact Joint Powers Board and the Airport Advisory Board both approve of the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110545/0607_Airport-Sewer-Project-2.mp3Penner said the lift station will pump the airport’s sewage to an existing town sewer line located outside of the airport property. The public works director said the pumping station is far more economical than tunneling under the highway.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110548/0607_Airport-Sewer-Project-3.mp3Penner said a lift station will cost around $70,000.
Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked how much money the town will need to pay. Penner said the Airport Advisory Board will cover the entire cost of the project. Councilwoman Beck, satisfied with Penner’s reply, motioned to approve the lift station project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110550/0607_Airport-Sewer-Project-4.mp3The Saratoga town council voted to pay Engineering Associates $25,000 to design a new sewer lift station at Shively Field.
The post Saratoga Officials Agree To New Sewer System At Shively Field first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 7, 2024 |
Photo – M-44 Sodium Cyanide Ejector – Courtesy Wikipedia
The Biden Administration has opened another front against American farmers and ranchers, and the Wyoming Congressional Delegation is pushing back.
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and Texas Representative August Pfluger are leading an effort to have U.S Department of Agriculture roll-back its ban on purchasing or deploying M-44 sodium cyanide ejector devices.
Farmers and ranchers, mainly sheep and goat producers, use the M-44 devices for predator control. The tools are used in the field to protect valuable herds from coyotes, foxes, and feral dogs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has continuously approved the use of these safe and effective devices by state agencies in the past.
The agency included language prohibiting the use of M-44 devices by third parties in the USDA’s Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Package signed into law earlier this year by the president..
Barrasso and Pfluger wrote in their letter, “American ranchers are the foundation of our food and economic security, and we must promote policies that protect their viability.”
The devices are estimated to save ranchers in Texas and Wyoming more than $100 million dollars annually in sales.
“In Wyoming alone, the letter states, “predator losses amounted to 47.3 percent of all sheep and lamb deaths. The continued production of M-44 devices is well within the law and is important to ensure ranchers have access to this safe and effective predation tool.”
The Center of Biological Diversity was one of the more than 70 radical environmental groups that, last July, called for the ban of M-44 devices on public lands. Their petition to the Bureau of Land Management was filed last summer. By the end of November of 2023, the BLM complied and banned the use of the devices.
Co-signers of the letter from Senator Barrasso and Representative Pfluger include U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas).
The post Department Of Ag Bans Predator Control Device first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 7, 2024 |
Photo – Edinburgh Street in Rawlins – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins city council has set aside millions of dollars of city money to fix Edinburgh Street.
During Tuesday night’s Rawlins city council meeting, the 2024 through 2025 budget was read for the second time. City Manager Tom Sarvey said he has allocated $1.2 million from the general fund to pay for the Edinburgh Street project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110530/0606_Edinburgh-Street-1.mp3In 2019, Rawlins voters consented to using 6th Penny Tax money to rebuild Edinburgh Street from Dunphail to Murray Street, including utility replacements and storm sewer improvements. The Edinburgh Street project is just one of 10 projects earmarked by the Rawlins government for 6th Penny Tax funding.
The City of Rawlins asked for $12.1 million to complete the 10 voter-approved projects. So far, the city has only completed one: reconstructing a section of Walnut Street from 3rd to 7th Street. The Walnut Street project was finished in 2021 at a cost of $1.855 million.
The 6th Penny Tax money doesn’t come all at once. The city receives approximately $1.37 million a year. Right now, Rawlins has $4 million left in the tax fund. The Edinburgh Street project is expected to cost $8.65 million.
At Tuesday’s city council meeting, City Manager Sarvey said he moved $1.3 million from the city’s reserve account to the streets department for the Edinburgh Street project. Sarvey said he also set aside $1 million of unallocated impact assistance money from the Chokecherry Wind Energy Project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110533/0606_Edinburgh-Street-2.mp3Councilman Chris Weisenburg asked Sarvey if the Edinburgh Street project money will need to be paid back to the city. Sarvey said the Chokecherry money was given to the city to use as it sees fit. However, the city manager said the $1.3 million from the general fund must be replenished using future 6th Penny Tax payments.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110535/0606_Edinburgh-Street-3.mp3Later in the meeting, Mass Grading owner Kelly Brendt said the city must start working on the remaining 6th Penny Tax projects. Brendt suggested working on each project a little at a time. The contractor said Edinburgh Street must be dewatered before the road surface can be fixed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110537/0606_Edinburgh-Street-4.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum said doing one part of a project at a time adds expense. Mayor Weickum said the council has decided to set aside the remaining money to complete the entire Edinburgh Street project in one go.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110539/0606_Edinburgh-Street-5.mp3Brendt said the city should not wait any longer to begin the Edinburgh Street project. Inflation will quickly put the cost of the project out of reach, said Brendt. Mayor Weickum said with the upcoming budget, the city is prepared to complete the voter-approved project. Afterwards, the city will put the remaining 6th Penny Tax money back into the general fund.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/07110541/0606_Edinburgh-Street-6.mp3Mayor Weickum said work on the Edinburgh Street project should begin next spring.
The post Rawlins Officials Opt To Use City Funds For Edinburgh Repairs first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 6, 2024 |
Photo – Water exchange map – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Platte Valley ranchers voiced their opposition this week to Sinclair refinery’s water exchange request.
On Tuesday afternoon, roughly 100 ranchers and concerned citizens from across the Platte Valley attended the Wyoming State Engineer’s Office water exchange meeting in Saratoga. Held in the Platte Valley Community Center, the meeting allowed the public to weigh in on HF Sinclair’s petition to use the water rights from a ranch purchased last year on the Encampment River to supplement its water needs from the North Platte River. The petroleum company stated that additional water is needed to keep the refinery in Sinclair operational during dry months.
Wyoming State Engineer Brandon Gebhart began the meeting by explaining that a water rights holder may petition the state to exchange water from one source to another. Gebhart said if an exchange petition is granted, the rights holder must return a similar amount of water to the original source.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112811/0606_Water-Exchanage-1.mp3However, Gebhart said the exchange petition will be rejected if diverting the water harms other water users, in this case, on the Encampment River.
Water rights consultant Patrick Tyrrell spoke at the meeting on behalf of HF Sinclair. Tyrrell said during dry seasons, the State Engineer’s Office can choose to override more recent water rights on the North Platte River. The consultant said HF Sinclair cannot operate without its full water allocation.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112813/0606_Water-Exchanage-2.mp3Tyrell said roughly every four years, HF Sinclair is forced to purchase temporary water rights on the open market to ensure the refinery can continue to operate at full capacity.
In January of 2023, HF Sinclair purchased a ranch outside of Encampment specifically for its water rights. Using its Encampment River water rights, the refinery will have a more stable way to supplement its water usage during calls on the North Platte River. Tyrell said HF Sinclair intends to use the legal water exchange system to take water from the Encampment River when necessary.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112815/0606_Water-Exchanage-3.mp3Tyrell said, as the owner of the ranch, HF Sinclair has a legal right to exchange water between the North Platte and Encampment Rivers. However, the water consultant said the petroleum company has no intention to “buy and dry” the property. Tyrell said in dry years when the refinery uses the water exchange, HF Sinclair will stop all irrigation on its Encampment ranch.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112818/0606_Water-Exchanage-4.mp3Neighboring ranchers argue that Sinclair not watering its ranch will hurt their operations based on the science of return flows.
Saratoga Encampment Riverside Conservation District Water Resource Specialist Justin Stern asked if not irrigating the Encampment ranch will negatively impact downstream users. Stern said the ranch soaks up flood water when the Encampment River is running high.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112820/0606_Water-Exchanage-5.mp3Sinclair’s water rights consultant, Tyrrell said the water exchange petition only considers the harm using the water will have on other users. Tyrrell said the Platte Valley is wet enough that HF Sinclair will not injure anyone by taking water from the Encampment River.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112823/0606_Water-Exchanage-6.mp3Saratoga rancher Jack Berger urged the State Engineer to deny the water exchange petition. Berger said the state must ensure that the water being taken from the Encampment River is used in the appropriate way.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112825/0606_Water-Exchanage-7.mp3Local rancher Les Barkhurst said he is uncomfortable with the uncertain amount of water HF Sinclair says it will take from the system. Barkhurst said the community must work together to prevent the petroleum company from drying out the Encampment River system.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112828/0606_Water-Exchanage-8.mp3Former Wyoming lawmaker and water rights specialist Jeb Steward of Encampment said the petition goes against Wyoming state law. Steward said local ranchers have worked together for over 100 years to ensure the water is used effectively. If the petition is approved, Steward said the delicate balance of water rights the ranchers have created will be disrupted.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112830/0606_Water-Exchanage-9.mp3Saratoga rancher Scott Kerbs said if the State Engineer’s Office will need to closely monitor the Encampment ranch if its request is approved. Kerbs said the state must ensure Sinclair is upholding its end of the agreement.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112833/0606_Water-Exchanage-10.mp3The ranchers said too many unknowns exist in Sinclair’s plan for the State Engineer to approve the petition.
Rawlins Mayor Terry Weickum was among the few who supported the water exchange. Weickum said the refinery is important to Carbon County. Mayor Weickum encouraged the ranchers to trust the state and the petroleum company to do what’s right for the community.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112836/0606_Water-Exchanage-11.mp3House District 15 Representative Don Burkhart, also of Rawlins, supports the water exchange. Representative Burkhart said HF Sinclair has gone out of its way to help the community in the past.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112839/0606_Water-Exchanage-12.mp3Representative Burkhart said gas prices across the state will increase if the refinery is forced to shut down due to a lack of water.
Former Saratoga councilman Jon Nelson agreed that the refinery is a good neighbor. However, Nelson said by granting the water exchange petition, the State Engineer’s Office will be rewriting Wyoming water law.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112842/0606_Water-Exchanage-13.mp3Carbon County Commissioner and fifth generation rancher John Johnson also spoke against the water exchange petition. Commissioner Johnson said water rights are tied to the land. While HF Sinclair may be a good neighbor, the next owner of the Encampment ranch may not. For those reasons, Commissioner Johnson said the State Engineer must deny the petition.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112846/0606_Water-Exchanage-14.mp3State Engineer Gebhart said his office will continue accepting written public comments on the proposed water exchange until June 14th. Only after all comments have been received and considered, will the State Engineer’s office announce its decision on HF Sinclair’s water exchange petition.
The post Many Platte Valley Ranchers Voice Opposition To Water Exchange Request first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 6, 2024 |
Photo – Overhead view of proposed bike track and current track – Courtesy Town of Saratoga
Some residents in Saratoga are asking to rebuild the town’s aging BMX track. The bicycle track located on town property is complete with jumps. It is located on West Elm Avenue behind the public library.
During Tuesday night’s Saratoga town council meeting, twelve-year-old Jackson Owen said the existing bike track is unsafe and unsightly. Owen presented the governing body with a petition, containing 108 names, for the construction of a new track.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112753/0606_Bike-Park-1.mp3Ten-year-old Archer Burau read the petition before the town council. Burau said the children of Saratoga are requesting a new bicycle track. The young lady listed reasons why the town should support the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112755/0606_Bike-Park-2.mp3Burau said neighbors living near the existing bike park support the improvement project.
Jackson’s father Ben Owen said the bicycle track was built roughly 20 years ago. The elder Owen said the track was not well constructed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112757/0606_Bike-Park-3.mp3Seeing the poor state of the park, Owen said he, his son Jackson, and other young people in Saratoga created a petition to improve the track.
Owen, a BMX rider himself, said Malt owner and Planning Commission Chairwoman McCall Burau asked an engineer to examine the property. Owen said the engineer told him that the area is suitable for more types of tracks in the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112759/0606_Bike-Park-4.mp3Owen asked the town council to allow him to modify the existing track. The new layout will be suitable for riders of all skill levels, said Owen.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112802/0606_Bike-Park-5.mp3Owen volunteered his time and equipment to rebuild the bike track at no cost to the town. The council members said they approved of the idea.
Councilman Mike Cooley thanked Owen for not asking the town to do all the work.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112806/0606_Bike-Park-6.mp3Mayor Chuck Davis said he likes the idea. However, Mayor Davis told Owen that the property can be sold in the future. Owen said until that time, he would like to have a new bike track.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/06112808/0606_Bike-Park-7.mp3Mayor Davis said Town Attorney Kylie Waldrip will review the project to ensure the town won’t be held liable for what happens at the bike track. The town council voted to support Owen’s plan on the condition that the town attorney approves the project.
The post Saratoga BMX Bikers Request Fixing Bike Track first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 6, 2024 |
Photo – Rob Roy Reservoir – Courtesy recreation.gov
Visitors and summer residents along Douglas Creek in the Medicine Bow Range can expect higher than normal flows today and tomorrow as Rob Roy Reservoir continues to fill.
Rob Roy is one of six reservoirs controlled by the City of Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities (BOPU). The small lake is expected to fill as early as today.
With the warmer temperatures this week, increased snowmelt has been flowing into Rob Roy.
Once the reservoir fills, a spillway will safely and naturally drain additional water back into Douglas Creek, resulting in the flow increase.
People living near or visiting Douglas Creek and surrounding riverways should exercise caution.
The post Caution Advised As Rob Roy Reservoir Continues To Fill first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 6, 2024 |
Photo – North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo
The North Platte River is running above “Action Stage” at 7.81 feet on Thursday.
The National Weather Service considers “Action Stage as 7.5 feet. Authorities say that “action stage” is where residents should take mitigation action in preparation for potential flooding.
The forecast shows the North Platte will come close to reaching “action stage” by Saturday when the forecast call for the river to reach a level of 8.3 feet. The NWS defines “Minor” stage as “minimal or no property damage, but possibly some public threat.” The “minor” stage is listed as 8.5 feet.
The long-range forecast shows the river beginning to recede from its minor threat level crest by Monday.
The post North Platte River Could Be At Minor Flood Stage On Saturday first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 5, 2024 |
Photo – 2021 photo of Woods Field – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Town of Saratoga has finally reached a long-term agreement to use the baseball fields owned by a local family.
Platte Valley Little League held its games on Wood Fields, located at the corner of 3rd Street and Hugus Avenue. The property was owned by George and Nellie Wood, who had an agreement with the town of Saratoga to allow their field to be used for youth baseball.
Following the deaths of George and Nellie Wood, continued use of the baseball fields was put into question. Living members of the Wood family were hesitant to let the town use their property.
An agreement was reached, though. In exchange for playing baseball at the ball field, Platte Valley Little League, the town of Saratoga, and others offered to provide time and money to revitalize the fields. In 2022, the entire field was resurfaced, and a new water line was run to the area. During the May 21st Saratoga town council meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis said after roughly four years, family members have agreed to allow both Little League and American Legion baseball programs to use the property.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100100/0605_Wood-Field-1.mp3Mayor Davis said the Wood family asked for a long-term lease. The mayor said it took nearly 8 months to finalize the contract.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100102/0605_Wood-Field-2.mp3Saratoga resident Richard Hodges said he supports having the kids play baseball at Wood Field. However, Hodges said dangerously distracted motorists speed past the baseball fields. He asked the town to install a 4-way stop sign at the corner of 3rd Street and Hugus Avenue.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100106/0605_Wood-Field-3.mp3Hodges said parking is also an issue when a Little League baseball game is occurring.
Mayor Davis asked Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris to perform a traffic study in the area.
Summer games are underway already. Platte Valley Little League Board Treasurer Creed James said opening day at was April 22nd.
The post Town Of Saratoga Reaches Agreement With Wood Family On Field Use first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 5, 2024 |
Photo – Carbon County Road and Bridge Yard and Shops – Courtesy Google Maps
It’s springtime in the Rockies and county crews are busing working to maintain the system of roads here in the county after the long winter.
During Tuesday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Road and Bridge Superintendent Kandis Fritz thanked her team for their work. Fritz said dust-reducing magnesium chloride application began around Baggs on Monday. The road and bridge superintendent said her two most senior employees have put in hundreds of hours of work preparing the county’s dirt roads for summer.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100028/0605_County-Road-Bridge-1.mp3Road and Bridge crews recently finished placing gravel on seven miles of dirt roads in and around the Mountain View Estates, north of Saratoga. Fritz said in total, her equipment operators spent 589 hours preparing the roads and laying gravel. The road and bridge supervisor said the county spent $60,435 per mile on the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100030/0605_County-Road-Bridge-2.mp3Fritz said the crews in the northern part of the county have been busy preparing County Road 3, or Medicine Bow Ranger Station Road in Elk Mountain, for gravel.
The road and bridge superintendent said the chemical application around Baggs should be finished today. Fritz said crews will then apply the dust-reducing chemical on other roads around the county.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100032/0605_County-Road-Bridge-3.mp3In 1991, the federal government created the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, or CMAQ. The program provides state and local governments with funding to help improve air quality.
In Carbon County, CMAQ funding will be used for additional magnesium chloride spraying. Fritz said she only received one bid for the project from Evanston-based Dustbusters Incorporated. The road and bridge superintendent said the dust control company will apply the chemical to 43 miles of county roads.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100035/0605_County-Road-Bridge-4.mp3Fritz said Dustbusters is asking for $266,600 to apply 1,625 tons of magnesium chloride on the county roads. The CMAQ grant totaled $260,730, leaving $52,146 for the county to pay out of the road fund.
The board voted to approve the contract with Dustbusters Inc for the mag chloride project.
Fritz said she must wait for approval from the Wyoming Department of Transportation before the project can begin. If WYDOT takes too long, Fritz said mag chloride spraying may be pushed off until next year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100037/0605_County-Road-Bridge-5.mp3Fritz moved onto her next item. The road and bridge superintendent said she has received a cost estimate to replace the aging bridge on County Road 660. Also known as French Creek Road, the bridge is part of WYDOT’s Bridge Replacement Off System. Fritz said the state agency has estimated the cost of the project at nearly $6 million. The county will not be asked to financially contribute.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100039/0605_County-Road-Bridge-6.mp3The bridge is scheduled to be replaced in two years, but Fritz said she is not confident about the timeline. The road and bridge superintendent said she would like to leave the existing bridge in place while the new one is being constructed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100042/0605_County-Road-Bridge-7.mp3The board voted to accept the bridge replacement estimate. At the same time, the commissioners voted to pay Dustbusters Inc $533,200 to apply magnesium chloride on 86 miles of county roads this summer.
Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones complimented Fritz on the Mountain View Estates project. Chairwoman Jones said the gravel should prevent the roads from becoming dangerously slippery when it rains.
The post Road And Bridge Begins Summer Road Maintenance first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 5, 2024 |
Photo – Sage grouse – Bigfoot99 file photo
With time running out next week for the public to supply comments on the Bureau of Land Management’s Greater Sage Grouse Draft Management Plan Amendment, Wyoming Senator John Barrasso yesterday called for more time.
In a letter BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning, Barrasso expressed concerns about the amendment and asked for the comment period to be extended by at least 180 days to allow affected citizens to digest the changes and comments. As it stands now, the comment period closes one week from tomorrow on Thursday, June 13, 2024.
The BLM’s proposed planning area encompasses nearly 121 million acres of federal land across Wyoming and nine other states with sage-grouse habitat. The proposed amendment could affect up to 69 million acres of public land, including land used for grazing, forestry, recreation, and energy production.
In a statement from March of this year, Senator Barrasso stated that “the Bureau’s final plan must allow activities essential to Wyoming’s economy – including energy production and livestock grazing – to thrive.”
In Tuesday’s letter to Stone-Manning, Senator Barrasso noted that “for years, communities and individuals across 10 Western states have worked together to conserve greater sage grouse and ensure the species does not require listing” under the Endangered Species Act.
In yesterday’s letter, the senator notes that “the Bureau of Land Management has not shown that irreparable harm is occurring to Greater Sage-Grouse habitat in Wyoming.”
Senator Barrasso said local stakeholders need more time to review the more than 660 pages in the new draft Resource Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement to provide accurate assessments.
The Biden Administration’s proposal, released in March, incorporates tough restrictions on oil and gas drilling and other land uses near the bird’s habitat. The “preferred alternative” also includes exemptions for solar and wind development near sage grouse habitat.
The post Senator Requests Extension On Comment Period For Sage Grouse Management first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 5, 2024 |
Photo – Mule deer herd – Courtesy WY G & F
Wyoming Game and Fish reports that cases of Chronic Wasting Disease cases are increasing slowly among mule deer across the state.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has released the results of Chronic Wasting Disease, or CWD, testing from last year’s hunting season. CWD is a fatal disease that affects the central nervous system of deer, elk, and moose. The disease creates abnormal protein formations in the animals’ brains, called prions. These prions disrupt normal nervous system functions, and as the disease progresses, animals become lethargic and eventually die.
Game and Fish Wildlife Disease Specialist Jessica Jennings-Gaines said the state agency has been studying the spread of CWD for over 20 years. In 2023, Game and Fish collected roughly 5,100 samples from deer and elk across the state. Gaines said each year, her department focuses on specific parts of Wyoming, but will also accept samples from outside of the designated collection area.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100044/0605_CWD-1.mp3Gaines said compared to 2022, Game and Fish collected approximately 700 fewer samples from harvested deer and elk last year. Despite a smaller sample size, Gaines said testing indicates that the prevalence of CWD has increased by around 2% across the state. The wildlife disease specialist said her agency has found cases of CWD in places where the disease hasn’t been seen in the past. However, Jennings-Gaines said the broader range of CWD may be the result of testing in new areas.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100046/0605_CWD-2.mp3Here in Carbon County, cases of CWD have largely stayed the same. The prevalence of the disease in adult mule deer bucks harvested in the Platte Valley has risen by 3.3% since 2022. In the Baggs region, instances of CWD in adult mule deer bucks has decreased by 1.6%.
In the Snowy Range, cases of CWD in adult elk have risen by 0.5% while no instances of the disease were reported in the Sierra Madres. However, with only 24 adult elk specimens collected in the Sierra Madres, the sample size is too low for an accurate assessment of CWD prevalence.
What does the increased number of infected deer and elk mean to Wyoming hunters? Gaines said hunters are encouraged not to eat animals with CWD.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100048/0605_CWD-3.mp3As of the writing of this story, there have been no reported cases of humans contracting the disease by consuming the meat of infected animals.
Gaines said the increased prevalence of Chronic Wasting Disease may also lead to smaller and less healthy deer and elk herd populations. The wildlife disease specialist said people can help slow the spread of CWD by not feeding the animals.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100051/0605_CWD-4.mp3Gaines said CWD isn’t going away any time soon because infected prions can persist in the soil for years. The wildlife disease specialist said Game and Fish are doing their best to mitigate the disease through extensive testing and culling older, more susceptible animals. Gaines said the public can help to slow the spread of CWD.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100053/0605_CWD-5.mp3CWD was first described in the 1960’s. A captive research mule deer herd at the Colorado State University in Fort Collins showed symptoms of a new form of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy. The new disease only affected Cervids, such as deer, elk, and moose.
Gaines said researchers do not know when the disease appeared in Wyoming. The wildlife disease specialist said the first confirmed case of Chronic Wasting Disease in the Cowboy State occurred in 1985.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100055/0605_CWD-6.mp3Until recently, testing for CWD could only be done on samples from dead animals. New methods to detect CWD in live animals are being developed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/05100058/0605_CWD-7.mp3Gaines said Chronic Wasting Disease is a major concern for Game and Fish. She thanked the hunters who contributed samples from their deer, elk and moose. The wildlife disease specialist said the samples are instrumental in helping to better understand the prevalence and distribution of the disease in our state.
The post Mule Deer CWD Cases On The Rise In Wyoming first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 4, 2024 |
Photo – Water faucet – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins city council voted to approve higher water rates on residents despite public claims of past mismanagement of the fund. At its May 21st meeting, the governing body approved Appendix E of the city’s new utility rate schedule. Appendix E contains increases in water and sewer fees.
Earlier this year, City Manager Tom Sarvey created a proposed fee schedule for the council’s approval based on history. Sarvey’s study showed that nearly all city utility rates need to be raised to keep pace with inflation and pay for critical infrastructure improvements.
Every proposed rate increase was approved by the city council during the April 16th regular council meeting except for Appendix E, the water and sewer fees. City Manager Sarvey said the council needed to wait 30 additional days to give the town of Sinclair the legally required time for the notice of rate increases.
About 25 years ago, Sinclair signed a contract with the Rawlins government to have the city supply the town with drinking water for the next 50 years. The contract states that Sinclair officials must be given 30 days notice before any water rate changes can be put into effect.
On May 21st, Vice Mayor Steve Sanger moved to approve Appendix E, the resolution amending the municipal fee schedule for water and sewer rates. Councilman Bruce Seilaff seconded.
Before the motion was voted on, Councilman Darril Garner asked City Manager Sarvey if a 59% sewer rate increase will generate the additional $1.5 million a year needed to pay for critical repair projects. Sarvey said no, but the increased revenue will allow the city to start working on its sewer system, which it couldn’t do under the previous fee schedule.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113751/0604_Rawlins-Water-Rate-Hike-1.mp3In January, Sarvey said the sewer rates would need to be raised by 162% to pay for all the required system maintenance.
At the time, the council discussed adding additional fees to businesses with multiple units hooked up to a single water tap. At the May 21st city council meeting, Councilman Chris Weisenburg said they shouldn’t give up on the idea. Councilman Weisenburg said if the city can find an alternate way to pay for the needed maintenance, the water rates may be lowered again.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113754/0604_Rawlins-Water-Rate-Hike-2.mp3Councilman Garner asked if Sarvey was looking into ways to help low-income residents offset the increased utilities costs. The city manager said non-profit organizations that have helped in the past no longer exist. However, Sarvey said he will continue to search.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113757/0604_Rawlins-Water-Rate-Hike-3.mp3Councilwoman Jacquelin Wells said the Salvation Army and WYO Help both offer temporary utility bill assistance.
Local contractor Casey Wailes said Rawlins is legally required to charge city departments for their water usage, which Wailes said the city is not doing.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113759/0604_Rawlins-Water-Rate-Hike-4.mp3Wailes said the city’s water fund problems stem from mismanagement. The contractor accused city workers of improperly maintaining the water infrastructure.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113802/0604_Rawlins-Water-Rate-Hike-5.mp3Wailes said he understands that the water fund needs to be replenished. However, the contractor said he is worried that increasing the water rates won’t stop the alleged mismanagement of the water system. Wailes suggested creating another 6th Penny-style tax to pay for the needed infrastructure improvements.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113804/0604_Rawlins-Water-Rate-Hike-6.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum said the city can’t simply create a new tax. Mayor Weickum also defended the city’s public works department against Wailes’s claims of ineptitude.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113806/0604_Rawlins-Water-Rate-Hike-7.mp3Wailes said temporary repairs made to the water system have needlessly cost the city hundreds of thousands of dollars. Mayor Weickum agreed, but said rehashing the topic isn’t helping.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113809/0604_Rawlins-Water-Rate-Hike-8.mp3Councilman Weisenburg thanked Wailes for recognizing that the water enterprise fund is a separate entity from the city’s other departments.
Mayor Weickum said the council will investigate if city departments pay for the water they use.
After the discussion, the Rawlins city council voted on Appendix E, the water and sewer utility rate increases. The motion passed. Councilwoman Tonya Lewman was the only member to vote against the resolution.
Under the new fee schedule, water meter rates will increase by roughly 80% and water usage will go up by 33% per thousand gallons.
Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller has compiled a list of organizations that offer utility bill assistance for residents. A link to the city’s utility assistance flyer will be included with this story when it is posted to Bigfoot99.com later today.
Utility-Assistance-2024-Updated-Flyer (rawlinswy.gov)
The post Rawlins Officials Vote To Increase Water And Sewer Fees first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 4, 2024 |
Photo – Missing Poster for Cheyenne man – Courtesy Laramie County SO
A missing Cheyenne man has been found dead in the Medicine Bow Mountains.
On Monday afternoon, Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken released a statement saying that a the body of missing Laramie County man was located near the Six Mile Gap in the southern part of Carbon County. 61-year-old Don Nelson man was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sheriff Bakken didn’t name the deceased person in his media release, stating that the man’s identity was being withheld out of respect for the family.
However, Nelson was reported missing over the weekend. A missing person flyer lists his last known location as Fox Park on Thursday, May 30th.
Sheriff Bakken’s media release states that on the night of Saturday, June 1st, dispatchers with the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a vehicle located near the Six Mile Gap area of southeast Carbon County. The vehicle description matched Nelson’s black GMC Denali pickup.
The sheriff wrote that Classic Air Rescue and Carbon County Search and Rescue-East Division members were activated the morning of June 2nd to assist deputies in searching the area for the missing person. Sadly, the man was found deceased approximately 400 meters from his vehicle.
Sheriff Bakken thanked his deputies, Classic Air Rescue, and all of the Carbon County Search and Rescue volunteers who assisted with the search.
The post Missing Cheyenne Man Located In Medicine Bow Mountains first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 4, 2024 |
Photo – Medicine Bow Speed Limit Sign – Courtesy Google Maps
For safety reasons, Medicine Bow officials asked WYDOT to move its state speed limit signs outside of town limits. The state Department of Transportation in Cheyenne refused the town’s request.
The speed limit on Highway 30 is 70 miles and hour until you reach Medicine Bow town limits. The speed limit then decreases to 30.
At the February 12th Medicine Bow town council meeting, Mayor Justin George said he wants to move the reduced speed limit signs farther away from the town. Mayor George said vehicles are still legally traveling at 70 miles an hour inside of the town limits.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113812/0604_Speed-Limit-1.mp3The town council asked Public Works Director Brian Lashley to contact the Wyoming Department of Transportation and have the speed limits signs moved outside of town. During the March 11th Medicine Bow town council meeting, Public Works Director Lashley said WYDOT refused to move the signs. Lashley said that the state agency’s response was that the sign placement isn’t unique to Medicine Bow.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113815/0604_Speed-Limit-2.mp3Lashley said he’ll continue talking to WYDOT about moving the signs.
At the May 13th Medicine Bow town council meeting, Lashley once again said WYDOT will not move the signs. The public works director said a costly traffic study must be performed and the state agency refuses to pay.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113817/0604_Speed-Limit-3.mp3Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer said she doesn’t understand why the signs aren’t on the edge of town. Lashley said a WYDOT representative told him that speed limit signs are handled the same way across the state.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113820/0604_Speed-Limit-4.mp3Mayor George said motorists are still traveling at 70 miles an hour past residential streets. The mayor acknowledged that WYDOT is unlikely to fix the issue quickly.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113822/0604_Speed-Limit-5.mp3Medicine Bow Town Attorney Cameron Smith asked Lashley if WYDOT formally denied his request to move the signs.
The Town Attorney said an official denial would provide the town with an opportunity to have the decision overruled in court. The public works director said he will ask the state agency to send him a formal letter refusing the town’s request.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/04113825/0604_Speed-Limit-6.mp3Public Works Director Lashley said he will let the town council know when he hears back from WYDOT.
The post WYDOT Will Not Move Speed Limit Sign On Request From Medicine Bow Officials first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 4, 2024 |
Photo – Powder River Basin Coal Mine – Courtesy USGS
Anti-carbon pressure from the Joe Biden White House have sent coal mines in Wyoming into steep production declines. The worst is yet to come.
In May, The Biden Administration announced plans to end new coal leasing in the Powder River Basin, which produces nearly half –40%–of the nation’s coal supply.
The PRB is the nation’s largest coal-producing region. Since the beginning of the Obama Administration 16-years ago in 2008, Wyoming’s coal output has been cut nearly in half. Now President Joe Biden is promising even more cuts.
Last month, the Bureau of Land Management released a statement saying that the ongoing leasing of coal in the Powder River Basin has significant negative effects on climate and public health. The BLM also stated that coal mining in Wyoming would continue for at least another 17 years until 2041.
The state’s Republican congressional delegation, U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis, John Barrasso, and U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman, all signed a letter condemning the decision.
Lummis responded, saying that she is “horrified to see the Biden Administration’s latest assault on our nation’s domestic energy production.”
“Wyoming has been targeted left and right by rule after rule handed down by this administration as it works to cater to the extremists within the Democratic Party,” Lummis said in a statement.
Wyoming, of course, produces some of the cleanest coal in the nation.
Republican Governor Mark Gordon vowed legal action against the Biden mandate against Wyoming coal. Calling the decision “destructive” the governor said, “I am profoundly disappointed that our nation’s highest executive leadership has chosen to ignore innovation and opportunity to grovel at the feet of coastal elites.”
The controversial plan comes on the heels of EPA regulations announced in late April that set guidelines for coal-fired plants around the country, and drew similar ire from state lawmakers.
Senator Barrasso said the decision would kill jobs and reduce revenues Wyoming needs for schools, roads and other services.
“President Biden continues to wage war on Wyoming’s coal communities and families,” said Wyoming’s senior senator.
With Wyoming facing the recent barrage of proposed rules from the federal government impacting its energy industries and public lands, Governor Gordon will host a Town Hall in Gillette later this month to discuss the issues with the public and share how the state is responding to protect its economy and energy workforce.
“The Biden Administration continues to fire broadsides at Wyoming’s core industries – coal, oil and gas, minerals, and agriculture – and attack our very way of life and our freedoms through federal rulemaking, feet-dragging, and outright interference,” Governor Gordon said. “This Town Hall will provide a forum to listen to the public’s concerns, let people know about all the things Wyoming is doing to fight back.”
The Town Hall is set for Tuesday, June 25 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Gillette College’s Technical Education Center. Joining the Governor will be members of the Campbell County Commission, state agency leaders, and industry representatives.
The post Wyoming’s Coal Mines In Steep Production Declines first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 3, 2024 |
Photo – Saviol M. Saint Jean mug shot – Courtesy SWC Circuit Court
Charges have officially been filed against the semi-truck driver responsible for the death of a Memorial Hospital of Carbon County EMT in December of 2022.
On May 25th, the Sweetwater County Circuit Court filed charges against 45-year-old Saviol M. Saint Jean. A resident of Brooklyn, New York, Saint Jean is facing one count of aggravated homicide by vehicle and one count of aggravated assault. The charges stem from the December 21st, 2022, crash on Interstate 80 that killed MHCC Emergency Medical Technician Tyeler Harris and seriously injured his partner, Tiffany Greutzmacher. The two EMTs were treating victims from an earlier crash when Saint Jean, allegedly not paying attention and driving too fast for the conditions, hit the rear end of their ambulance.
According to court documents obtained by Bigfoot99, at approximately 4:30am on December 21st, 2022, Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper J.C. Scheel arrived at a multi-vehicle crash in the westbound lane of I-80, near mile marker 197, east of Rawlins.
Trooper Scheel reported that he saw three semi-trucks and a smashed ambulance when he arrived at the scene. The trooper said that the red Freightliner Cascadia, driven by Saint Jean, appeared to have struck the ambulance. EMT Harris was found laying under the trailer of one of the other semi-trucks. Harris’s partner, EMT Greutzmacher was beneath the cab of Saint Jean’s truck.
Harris died from the injuries he sustained in the crash. Greutzmacher was seriously injured, suffering a skull fracture and several broken vertebrae. She was taken to Cheyenne Regional Medical Center for treatment and released five days later.
In his report, Trooper Scheel said a witness at the scene stated that Saint Jean was traveling between 70 and 80 miles an hour when he collided with the ambulance.
Saint Jean refuted the witness’s claim, stating that he was driving 55 to 60 miles per hour and, thinking the ambulance was parked on the right shoulder, moved into the left-hand lane.
According to Saint Jean, by the time he realized the ambulance was actually on the left shoulder, it was too late to stop.
An investigation completed by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, in February of this year, showed no evidence of Saint Jean attempting to avoid hitting the ambulance until his tires locked up 54 feet before the crash.
The results of the investigation lead Sweetwater County Prosecutors to file one count of aggravated homicide by vehicle for the death of Harris and one count of aggravated assault for Greutzmacher’s injuries against Saint Jean. If found guilty on both charges, Saint Jean could face up to 30 years in prison.
Following the deadly incident, Memorial Hospital of Carbon County set up a scholarship in Harris’s name. The Tyeler Harris Memorial Scholarship offers two $500 scholarships to help pay for emergency medical technician classes.
Harris was also honored with a memorial bench at the North Platte Valley Medical Center, in Saratoga.
Greutzmacher continues to recover from her injuries. After being released from the hospital, she was given a hero’s welcome back to Rawlins and was even honored during the 2023 Cheyenne Frontier Days.
Saint Jean is currently being held in the Sweetwater County Detention Center on a $150,000 bond. A preliminary hearing has been set for this Wednesday, June 5th, at 1:30pm in the Circuit Court of Sweetwater County.
The post 2022 I-80 Ambulance Crash Semi Driver Charged In Sweetwater County first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 3, 2024 |
Photo – Edinburgh Street in Rawlins – Bigfoot99 file photo
The rate of inflation is outpacing tax revenues and Rawlins officials say Edinburgh Street may be too costly to fix using only 6th Penny money.
When voters authorized the creation of a 6th Penny Special Purpose Tax in 2021, Rawlins identified 10 projects to fund. The list includes rebuilding Airport Road and Walnut, Edinburgh, and Washington Streets as well as making improvements to sidewalk access along Harshman Street. Tax money was also set aside to build a new water pipeline and storage facility at the Rawlins cemetery.
The City of Rawlins asked for $12.1 million to complete the 6th Penny projects. So far, the city has only completed one: reconstructing a section of Walnut Street from 3rd to 7th Street, including water and sanitary sewer improvements. The work was finished in 2021 at a cost of $1.855 million.
At the February 20th Rawlins city council meeting, Councilman Darril Garner asked to expedite the sewer replacement project on Edinburgh Street. Councilman Garner said the road, located on the east side of North Higley Boulevard, is quickly deteriorating.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102328/0603_Rawlins-Street-Projects-1.mp3City Manager Tom Sarvey was tasked with finding out how much money it will cost to repair Edinburgh Street. Speaking at the May 21st Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Sarvey said the 6th Penny Tax fund contains less than half of the money needed to complete the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102332/0603_Rawlins-Street-Projects-2.mp3Sarvey said the city collects approximately $1.37 million in 6Th Penny Tax each year. The city manager said it’ll take another two or three years before the city has enough money for the Edinburgh Street project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102335/0603_Rawlins-Street-Projects-3.mp3Of the $12.1 million of 6th Penny Tax money, Sarvey said fixing Edinburgh Street won’t leave much of that money for the remaining eight projects.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102339/0603_Rawlins-Street-Projects-4.mp3Sarvey said in 2021, when the Edinburgh Street sewer line replacement project was approved, the cost was estimated at $2.3 million. Over the last three years, inflation has caused the price to increase by roughly 365%.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102343/0603_Rawlins-Street-Projects-5.mp3Councilman Chris Weisenburg said a few years ago, the city received an estimate for the Edinburgh Street project in the $5 to $6 million range. Public Works Director Cody Dill said the higher $8.65 million price tag includes repaving the entire road.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102345/0603_Rawlins-Street-Projects-6.mp3The council said the rate of inflation may outpace the amount of 6th Penny Tax money the city receives each year, putting the project permanently out of reach. Mayor Terry Weickum said if necessary, the council can choose to supplement the 6th Penny Tax with money from the city budget.
City Manager Sarvey will present the council with additional funding options during upcoming budget talks.
The post Inflation Outpacing 6th Penny Tax Money Set Aside For Needed Projects first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
June 3, 2024 |
Photo – Elk Mountain School – Courtesy Google Maps
A lack of new students has Carbon County School District Number Two officials facing difficult decisions.
CCSD2 Superintendent Darrin Jennings told Bigfoot99 that Elk Mountain Elementary School has no students enrolled for the upcoming 2024 through 2025 school year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102311/0603_CCSD2-Tough-Choices-1.mp3As Jennings said, the Elk Mountain Elementary School had no students last year, as well. At the time, Jennings said the building could still be used during inclement weather and for community events.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102315/0603_CCSD2-Tough-Choices-2.mp3An anonymous source close to the town told Bigfoot99 that Elk Mountain officials may attempt to lease the unused elementary school to use for office space and community activities.
Jennings said he has been in contact with Elk Mountain Mayor Morgan Irene about uses for the school, but nothing has been decided at this point.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102318/0603_CCSD2-Tough-Choices-3.mp3In 2023, Jennings said that a school must have no students for three consecutive years before the district can shut it down. Speaking to Bigfoot99 last week, Jennings said he isn’t considering permanently closing the Elk Mountain Elementary School yet.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102321/0603_CCSD2-Tough-Choices-4.mp3Elk Mountain isn’t the only town in Carbon County facing a lack of incoming students. Jennings said the number of registered students at the Medicine Bow Elementary School has dropped from nine in 2023 to just five. Despite potential staffing issues related to the fluctuating student count, Jennings said he has no plans to close the school.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/03102325/0603_CCSD2-Tough-Choices-5.mp3Dwindling numbers of students means that consolidating all northern Carbon County schools into one building, most likely in Hanna, isn’t out of the question. Jennings said he isn’t preparing to close any school at this time.
The post Difficult Decisions For Carbon County School District #2 first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 31, 2024 |
Photo – Flood Potential Table – Courtesy NWS Riverton
Minor flooding can still occur on the North Platte River at Saratoga and other spots in Carbon County, says the National Weather Service, but the threat of substantial flooding is unlikely to occur.
Each week, the Wyoming branch of the National Weather Service provides an outlook for spring and summer flood potentials in the state.
On Thursday afternoon, Meteorologist and Hydro Program Manager for the Riverton Office Celia Hensley said the National Weather Service used a variety of measurements to determine the likelihood of flooding.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/31102102/0531_Flood-Threat-1.mp3Hensley said her weather models are not forecasting any significant rainfall in June. Along with minimal rain, Hensley said average temperatures are expected to continue climbing into the next month.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/31102105/0531_Flood-Threat-2.mp3High temperatures can cause mountain snowpack to melt faster than expected. Hensley said heavy snowmelt can’t be ruled out for the Upper North Platte Basin.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/31102107/0531_Flood-Threat-3.mp3Hensley said she is worried about the amount of snow still in the Sierra Madre and Snowy Range Mountains. The National Weather Service meteorologist said above 9,500 feet, both mountain ranges have the equivalent of 30 inches of water trapped in the snowpack.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/31102109/0531_Flood-Threat-4.mp3With so much snow still in the mountains, Hensley said the North Platte River has a 50% chance of minor flooding this season.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/31102111/0531_Flood-Threat-5.mp3The North Platte River is considered to be at minor flood stage when the water level is at 9.5 feet, or roughly three and a half feet above normal.
Hensley said increasingly hotter temperatures will continue to melt the mountain snowpack at a faster than average rate. While we are unlikely to see any major flooding along the North Platte River, a minor flood event can’t be ruled out.
The National Weather Service has scheduled one more flood outlook meeting. If nothing unexpected occurs, next week’s webinar will be the final session for the season.
The post Minor Flooding Possible In Platte Valley Says NWS first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 31, 2024 |
Photo – Governor Mark Gordon – Bigfoot99 file photo
Governor Mark Gordon has filed an additional lawsuit challenging a new rule from the Environmental Protection Agency that targets the coal industry in Wyoming and other states.
With the lawsuit, Wyoming joins West Virginia, Georgia and 19 other states challenging EPA’s new steam electric power generating effluent guidelines. The rule was part of a package of rules released in late April that target power plants. The new EPA rule requires, according to the lawsuit filed by the states, costly and infeasible technologies that are designed to force the early retirement of traditional electric power plants.
The lawsuit contends that EPA’s rule does not reflect any genuine science in protecting human health and the environment. Wyoming’s lawsuit argues that the final rule exceeds EPA’s statutory authority and is arbitrary in nature, capricious, and is an abuse of discretion, not in accordance with law.
In a statement accompanying Thursday’s announcement regarding the lawsuit, Governor Gordon said, “Yet again we are compelled to challenge the unlawful and ill-conceived rulemaking of the Biden Administration’s EPA to defend the interests of our core industries, including coal, as well as protect consumers from burdensome regulations that increase energy costs and threaten our nation’s energy supply, while doing little or nothing for the environment.”
The states argue in their petition to 11th Circuit U.S. Appeals Court for Georgia, Alabama and Florida, that the final rule exceeds the EPA’s statutory authority and is outside the law. The 22 participating states ask that the court declare the EPA’s decision unlawful and to vacate it.
Wyoming is funding its participation with tax money funded through a bill passed by the Legislature and signed by Governor Gordon in 2021. House Bill 207 created the coal-fired facility closures litigation funding account to fight the Biden Administration on anti-coal mandates.
The post Wyoming Governor Files Lawsuit Against EPA first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 31, 2024 |
Photo – Bridge Avenue river access area – Courtesy OV Consulting
The public comment period for Saratoga’s Transportation Alternatives Master Plan has ended. The finished document identifies 11 projects.
In October of 2023, the town of Saratoga received a $200,000 grant from the Wyoming Department of Transportation to perform a comprehensive study of the town’s existing walkways and sidewalks. The study is designed to identify ways that pedestrian access could be improved in the town.
The governing body authorized the hiring of Denver-based OV Consulting to undertake the Transportation Alternatives Master Plan. The company held three public meetings to gather feedback from Saratoga residents on the walkway improvements they would like to see. The final public meeting was held on May 6th.
OV Consulting put together a design draft containing 42 total infrastructure projects. Eleven projects were chosen as the most feasible.
According to the website, Saratogamoves.com, three of the projects are centered around West Elm Avenue. The first suggestion is to improve the school bus loading zone on the south side of the Saratoga Elementary School.
OV Consulting notes that the current school bus drop-off area lacks proper infrastructure to divide students from passing traffic. A physical barrier could be added between the bus lane and Elm Avenue to protect students.
OV Consulting also recommends adding a crosswalk at the intersection of West Elm Avenue and South 4th Street. They write that the area is a location where people naturally cross the street. A crosswalk would make crossing the street safer and more predictable. Flashing lights could be added to increase visibility.
The third improvement OV Consulting recommends for Elm Avenue is a painted pathway along the side of the street. The design firm writes that a designated walkway will provide a safe space for students who walk and bike between the Middle High School and Elementary School. They suggested using painted lines, panther paws or low-maintenance planter boxes to separate people from traffic.
Through the public meetings, OV Consulting came up with four walkway improvements for Highway 130, running through the center of town.
The big-city design firm recommends adding more traffic control devices to all intersections along the main road. Saratoga has long prided itself on being free of traffic control devices, particularly lights. The company suggests curb extensions and a pedestrian-activated beacon to reduce speeds through the downtown core and improve pedestrian safety.
Along with additional traffic control devices, OV Consulting recommends updating sidewalks and curb ramps to Americans with Disability Act standards along Highway 130 from Hugus Mullison Ditch to Saratoga Avenue. The design firm writes that the project would require partnering with the Wyoming Department of Transportation and would require drainage improvements.
The original purpose of Saratoga’s Transpiration Alternative Master Plan was to investigate the feasibility of building a sidewalk from the center of the town south to Valley Foods. OV Consulting included this project in its list of Highway 130 improvements. The design firm writes that a separated path along the highway connecting the southern residential areas and the grocery store to the town center should be constructed.
OV Consulting did not provide additional information on exactly where the sidewalk should be located.
With the new sidewalk to Valley Foods, OV Consulting also recommends conducting an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing analysis across the highway to Sage Avenue. The design firm writes that the town should consider installing triangular yield markings and enhancing the crosswalk with flashing beacons.
OV Consulting is also suggesting the creation of a new public space where the North Platte River meets East Bridge Avenue. The design firm writes that the area behind the Outhouse Gift Shop could be a low maintenance public space that invites people to sit and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Platte River. Improvements could range from concrete walks, seat-steps, wayfinding, private property signage, benches, and waste receptacles.
OV Consulting also suggests general signage improvements on and around Veteran’s Island.
The design firm emphasizes placing signage along the Veteran’s Island Recreational Loop, guiding pedestrians seamlessly from downtown to the Hobo Hot Pools and through the Veteran’s Island Park. Future wayfinding signs could blend with the town’s character, including themes around the river or fish jumping into Main Street.
The Saratoga Transportation Alternatives Master Plan suggests general improvements to the Hobo Hot Pools. OV Consulting recommends improving river access and circulation by the hot pool through the use of accessibility and wayfinding improvements to the Platte River Bridge from the Cypress Avenue parking area, south of the hot springs.
The design firm concluded their project list by recommending the area around the boat ramp be renovated. OV Consulting writes that aesthetic improvements to reduce flooding into the vehicular circulation area, as well as ensuring safe passing for pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles with boats is needed.
None of OV Consulting’s projects are guaranteed to happen. The Transportation Alternatives Master Plan was simply to identify the most requested improvements to the town’s walking infrastructure.
The next step is for OV Consulting to present the Saratoga Planning Commission and town council with more concrete information on how the town will pay for the improvements.
For more information about the Saratoga Transportation Alternatives Master Plan, visit www.saratogamoves.com. The wish-list of ideas for improvements on the company’s web site do not carry any projected costs.
The post Saratoga’s Transportation Plan Comment Period Closed first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 31, 2024 |
Photo – Donald Trump – Bigfoot99 file photo
No surprise in the Big Apple. A New York jury found former President Donald Trump guilty on all 34 counts brought by the Democrats who control the city.
The jury arrived at the decision Thursday, following two partial days of deliberations.
Following the verdict, the former President addressed the cameras outside the courtroom. Trump declared his innocence and characterized the trial as being rigged from the top of the nation’s political power structure.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/31102058/0531_Donald-Trump-1.mp3U.S. Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming did not disagree with Trump’s assessment. Senator Barraso said the case against Trump was never about justice. Barrasso said that Democrats weaponized the judicial system against a political opponent.
“Elections are decided in voting booths, not courtrooms,” Senator Barrasso added.
Wyoming’s other U.S. Senator, Cynthia Lummis, agreed. Lummis characterized the trial as “a biased political persecution.”
Even Wyoming Governor Mark Gordan, who many conservatives consider as being too liberal, posted on X that he was disappointed in the verdict. “Voters will chose the next President, not a New York jury,” the governor posted.
Wyoming’s lone congresswoman, Representative Harriet Hagemen, echoed Senator Barrasso’s comments. Hageman characterized the trial as unjust and politically motivated. In a statement following the verdict, Hageman described the trial as a “desperate grasp to win a presidential election that they will ultimately lose.”
Wyoming’s sole representative in the House continued, “The American people will see this for what it is, Donald Trump will ultimately have the verdict overturned on appeal and we must all ensure that this abuse of the legal system is never allowed to happen again.”
Hageman noted that the Judge who oversaw the case, Juan Mercan, is a Democrat activist “whose daughter has made over $9 million from the Biden/Harris campaign.” Hageman, who, herself, is an attorney, wrote in a statement following the case that while presiding over the case, Merchan “blocked key witnesses and facts by the defense and provided slanted jury instructions.”
Representative Hageman predicted that Thursday’s verdict will be overturned on appeal.
Trump told reporters after the verdict was returned that the real verdict will come on Election Day, Nov. 5 and that he’s a “very innocent man.”
The verdict put wind at the backs of liberal broadcasters who crowed over the verdict Thursday afternoon on cable TV news shows.
Meanwhile, WinRed, a political web site that raises money for Donald Trump lost its donation function following the guilty verdict after being overwhelmed by a rush of web traffic.
Trump is expected to appeal the verdict quickly. He’ll hit the campaign trail as a convicted felon. There are no campaign rallies on the calendar for now, though he’s expected to hold fundraisers next week. Judge Merchan, who oversaw the case, set sentencing for July 11, days before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.
Meanwhile, the Democrat-orchestrated trial in New York City may have no political impact at all in this year’s Presidential election.
The NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist national poll showed 67% of registered voters, nationally, wouldn’t be swayed by a guilty verdict against Trump, while 15% said it would make them more likely to vote for him. Another 17% said a guilty verdict would make them less likely to vote for Trump.
The poll released Thursday also shows that among independent voters, Trump beats Biden 54% to 42% in November.
The post No Surprises From New York City first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 30, 2024 |
Photo – Two of Elk Mountain Fire Department’s rigs – Courtesy Elk Mtn. Fire Facebook
The Elk Mountain town council chose this week not to join the Carbon County Fire Protection District at this time.
During the November 2022 elections, Carbon County residents voted to form a county-wide fire protection district. The newly established organization is set to respond to emergency calls in the unincorporated areas of Carbon County
In January, Carbon County Fire Protection District Board Vice President Jim Piche met with Elk Mountain officials to convince the small town to enter into an agreement with the fire protection district. Piche said the county would take ownership of all firefighting equipment. The town would be allowed to keep its fire department open, but in the event of a county-wide emergency, the fire protection district could call the Elk Mountain Fire Department to respond.
At the meeting, Elk Mountain Mayor Morgan Irene said he was worried that the county would commandeer the small town’s firefighting equipment during an out-of-town emergency.
Piche assured Mayor Irene that the Elk Mountain Fire Department could refuse to help the fire protection district if doing so left the town unprotected.
In the end, Elk Mountain officials remained skeptical about joining the Carbon County Fire Protection District.
Fast forward to Tuesday night. The Elk Mountain town council briefly met to pass the town’s budget on the second reading. After the successful budget vote, Mayor Irene discussed the possibility of entering into an agreement with the fire protection district. The mayor said he still isn’t willing to accept the county’s terms.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095916/0530_Fire-District-1.mp3Mayor Irene said 4 mills of Elk Mountain’s net worth equals roughly $7,000 a year. The mayor said the price seems far too low. Mayor Irene said he doesn’t like what the fire protection district is offering the town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095919/0530_Fire-District-2.mp3Mayor Irene said allowing the fire protection district to take over the Elk Mountain Fire Department will effectively leave the town with nothing. The mayor said the fire protection district will quickly realize that $7,000 a year is too little money to run the organization.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095921/0530_Fire-District-3.mp3Mayor Irene said the council should not consider the fire protection district’s offer until they see how the agency operates in other municipalities. The mayor said he expects fire fighters to personally reject the fire district’s proposal.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095923/0530_Fire-District-4.mp3Mayor Irene said at the January meeting, Carbon County Fire Protection District Board Vice President Piche told them that, if the town refuses to sign the agreement, emergency services might be slower to respond to the town. The mayor said Elk Mountain won’t be coerced to join the district.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095926/0530_Fire-District-5.mp3Mayor Irene said he doesn’t believe that any other municipalities have signed up with the fire protection district yet. The mayor said the contract being offered to towns is too confusing.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095928/0530_Fire-District-6.mp3Mayor Irene said Elk Mountain has had difficulty setting up multi-agency agreements in the past. The mayor said the town should not concede any of its firefighting equipment to the fire protection district.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095931/0530_Fire-District-7.mp3Mayor Irene said the town should not join the Carbon County Fire Protection District until they are presented with a more realistic and agreeable contract. The Elk Mountain town council did not bring the matter up for a vote.
The post Town Of Elk Mountain Does Not Enter Into Fire Protection District’s Agreement first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 30, 2024 |
Photo – Wagonhound Road road sign – Bigfoot99 file photo
Motorists on Interstate 80 in Carbon County will encounter road construction near the Wagonhound Rest Area.
Work began this week following the Memorial Day holiday between mile markers 258 to 268 in the eastbound lanes only.
The project includes mill and overlay work, as well as installation of a high- performance wearing course. Some concrete slabs will be replaced in the driving lane, as well.
WYDOT advises that the hot plant for the project area is located near the Wagonhound Rest Area. Motorists are advised to expect heavy truck traffic in and around the rest area throughout the project.
Interstate travelers should expect possible delays due to lowered speed limits and single lane shifts through the construction zone.
A 14-foot width restriction for vehicles will be in place for interstate traffic during the project.
The post Road Work Starts On I-80 In Carbon County first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 30, 2024 |
Photo – Senator John Barrasso – Bigfoot99 file photo
U.S. Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming, in a letter to Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm—the former Democratic Governor of Michigan, blasted the Biden Administration for its continued draining of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
The letter is also signed by U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rogers of Washington, the Republican Chair of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. In the letter, Senator Barrasso and Representative Rogers call on the Energy Secretary to safeguard the SPR and stop using releases to prevent further increases in the price of gasoline—a ploy the pair say Biden is doing to provide “political cover” by keeping the price at the pump artificially low.
The pair say the White House has overseen the largest depletion of oil in the country’s reserves since 1983. They write, “When President Biden took office in January of 2021, the SPR contained 638 million barrels of oil. Today, the SPR contains 367 barrels of oil, which represents a nearly 42 percent decline from when President Biden took office.”
The pair charge Biden is abusing the country’s stockpile of oil to artificially deflate oil prices to hide “record inflation that are a consequence of the administration’s radical rush to “green” energy policies.”
The letter urges the Biden Administration “to put this country’s energy security first” and to stop using the Strategic Petroleum Reserve for “political purposes.”
Barrasso and Rogers state in their letter dated May 29, 2024, “The record high inflation every American is paying, in all sectors of the economy, is a consequence of the administration’s radical push for “green” energy.”
They urge the administration to end the “war on oil and natural gas and focus on lowering production costs.”
The post Senator Calls On Energy Secretary To End Petroleum Reserve Drain first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 30, 2024 |
Photo – Announcement for Meet & Greet – Courtesy Trout Unlimited
Trout Unlimited is inviting people to welcome Muddy Creek Project Manager Austin Quynn to the area.
Tomorrow evening, Trout Unlimited is hosting a meet and greet at the Snowy Mountain Brewery in Saratoga.
Wyoming native Austin Quynn is joining the conservation agency. Quynn said he has always been interested in the outdoors and working with Trout Unlimited was an easy decision to make.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095946/0530_Trout-Unlimited-1.mp3According to their website, Trout Unlimited is a national non-profit organization with 300,000 members that is dedicated to conserving, protecting, and restoring America’s cold-water fisheries and watersheds.
Quynn said Trout Unlimited is preparing to undertake a conservation project south of Rawlins at Muddy Creek. The project manager said he will work with several government agencies to make the river habitable to desirable Colorado Cutthroat trout once again.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095948/0530_Trout-Unlimited-2.mp3CRC means Colorado Cutthroat, a subspecies of trout native only to the Green and Colorado River basins.
Quynn said both man-made and natural causes have made the Muddy Creek a more challenging place for Colorado Cutthroat trout to live and spawn.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095950/0530_Trout-Unlimited-3.mp3Quynn said the Muddy Creek project will involve creating spawning habitats for the trout and raising the river’s water level. Eventually, the project manager said he would like to remove some of the man-made barriers preventing the fish from easily accessing the creek.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095952/0530_Trout-Unlimited-4.mp3Quynn said the Muddy Creek project is likely to take decades to complete. The project manager said the more assistance he has, the more work he can do on the project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095955/0530_Trout-Unlimited-5.mp3Quynn said Trout Unlimited relies on community support to accomplish its goal of freshwater habitat conservation. Tomorrow, the public is invited to meet Quynn and learn about him and the Muddy Creek project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095957/0530_Trout-Unlimited-6.mp3The Trout Unlimited Muddy Creek Project Manager Meet and Greet begins at 5:30pm tomorrow, May 31st. The event will be held at the Snowy Mountain Brewery and Pub, located at 601 Pic Pike Road in Saratoga.
The meet and greet is free to attend. However, organizers are asking people to register for the event. A link to the registration page will be included with this story when it is posted to the Bigfoot99 website later today.
Trout Unlimited Muddy Creek Project Manager Meet and Greet website address: Muddy Creek Project Manager Meet and Greet: Fri, May 31, 2024 (myeventscenter.com)
The post Trout Unlimited Sets Meet & Greet For Friday first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 30, 2024 |
Photo – Announcement of new exhibit – Courtesy Carbon County Museum
This weekend, the Carbon County Museum is unveiling a new exhibit on the history of law enforcement in Carbon County.
Museum Director Tom Mensik said his facility contains a lot of information about local outlaws, specifically Big Nose George Parrott. Because of that, Mensik said he wanted to create an exhibit that focuses on the history of law enforcement in the area.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095933/0530_Museum-Exhibit-1.mp3Mensik said to prepare for the law enforcement exhibit, he reached out to the Wyoming Frontier Prison and Wyoming State Penitentiary Warden Neicole Molden for information about the evolution of criminal justice in Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095936/0530_Museum-Exhibit-2.mp3As well as information about law enforcement, Mensik said the new exhibit contains dozens of seldom-seen artifacts. The museum director said a collection of badges, both new and old, will also be on display.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095938/0530_Museum-Exhibit-3.mp3Mensik said the exhibit will contain wreckage from the 1955 United Flight 409 plane crash on Medicine Bow Peak. The museum director said a mysterious highly illegal firearm will also be part of the new display.
Being a sheriff or police officer in Carbon County requires a unique set of skills. Mensik said the new exhibit will highlight the differences between urban and rural law enforcement tactics.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095941/0530_Museum-Exhibit-4.mp3Mensik said the exhibit also contains a first-of-its-kind memorial to all the Carbon County peace officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The museum director said he wanted to pay respect to every police officer, emergency medical technician, Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper, Game and Fish agent, Sheriff’s deputy, and Department of Corrections guard who have died in the line of duty.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/30095943/0530_Museum-Exhibit-5.mp3The Carbon County Museum will unveil its new Justice and Law Enforcement in Carbon County exhibit this Saturday, June 1st.
For more information, call 328-2740 or visit the Carbon County Museum at 904 West Walnut Street in Rawlins.
The post Carbon County Museum Unveils New Exhibit This Weekend first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 29, 2024 |
Photo – A young Tony Windis – Courtesy UW Athletics
Former Rawlins High School coach and Wyoming Basketball Hall of Famer Tony Windis Senior died earlier this month.
On May 15th, Tony Windis Senior died at the age of 91. Windis is considered one of the greatest basketball players in the history of Wyoming. He played for the University of Wyoming Cowboys from 1957 to 1959. In 1999, Windis was inducted into the Wyoming Athletics Hall of Fame.
Tony Windis at the AA on the 60th Anniversary of his 50 point game against New Mexico (2018)Wyoming Athletics Selection Committee Member Kevin McKinney said Windis still holds the second highest average career score in the history of the University of Wyoming’s basketball program. McKinney said Windis also holds the second highest single game score, a record that still stands 66 years later.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102635/0429_Windis-1.mp3McKinney said Windis’s accomplishments are even more impressive when you consider that the three-point shot hadn’t been invented yet.
Windis was voted all-conference for all three of his eligible college years. He was also named Player of the Year in the Rockies for two consecutive years, 1958 and 1959.
McKinney said Windis had a long and successful career as both a basketball player and coach.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102638/0429_Windis-2.mp3McKinney said as a young man, he watched Windis play basketball. The Wyoming Athletics Hall of Fame committee member said Windis is still considered to be one of the best to ever play the game.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102641/0429_Windis-3.mp3In 1971, Windis began coaching high school basketball. In 1977, while coaching at Mountain View High School, he became the first coach in Wyoming history to win both a boys and girls state championship in the same year. Windis ended his coaching career in Rawlins after leading the Outlaws to the State Championship in 1982.
While coaching, Windis taught driver’s education at Rawlins High School. Many Rawlins students would describe Windis as a no-nonsense coach and teacher. McKinney said Windis had a well-deserved reputation for being tough both on and off the court.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102709/0529_Windis-4.mp3McKinney said Windis is still considered to be one of the best basketball shooters in the state.
A memorial service for Tony Windis Senior will be held at the St Paul’s Newman Center Catholic Church, located at 1800 Grand Avenue, in Laramie, on Saturday, June 22nd, at 10:00am.
The post Former Rawlins Basketball Coach Dies At Age 91 first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 29, 2024 |
Photo – Chickens – Bigfoot99 file photo
In-town Saratoga residents are one step closer to keeping chickens. Back at the March 19th Saratoga town council meeting, former councilman Jon Nelson asked the town to allow people to keep egg-laying hens on their property.
Saratoga ordinances currently only allow chickens on undeveloped properties over five acres in size or for 4-H and FFA purposes.
On April 9th, the Saratoga Planning Commission held a public hearing about a potential chicken ordinance. Speaking at the April 16th Saratoga town council meeting, Public Works Director Emery Penner said residents offered a wide variety of opinions on the subject.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102659/0529_Toga-Chicken-1.mp3Penner misspoke. The following Saratoga Planning Commission meeting was on May 14th. During last week’s town council meeting, Penner said most residents supported the idea of keeping egg-laying hens in town. The public works director said he will amend the existing town ordinance and submit it to the council for approval.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102701/0529_Toga-Chicken-2.mp3Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked Penner when residents will be able to have hens. Penner said keeping chickens will be legal shortly after his amended ordinance is passed by the town council.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102703/0529_Toga-Chicken-3.mp3All ordinance changes must be read at three separate public meetings before being signed into law. Mayor Chuck Davis said he expects the amended ordinance to be passed by the middle of July.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102707/0529_Toga-Chicken-4.mp3Penner said his ordinance amendment will create an easy to obtain permit allowing residents to keep hens on their properties. The public works director said he will present the amended ordinance to the planning commission during their upcoming June 11th meeting.
The town council will then read the new ordinance during their June 18th and July 2nd meetings. The ordinance can then be signed into law after the third and final reading at the July 16th Saratoga town council meeting.
The post Saratoga May Have New Backyard Residents Come July first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 29, 2024 |
Photo – Pick Bridge – Bigfoot99 file photo
Despite a change in the web site that tracks possible flooding, the new NOAA.gov system shows that the North Platte River at Saratoga should remain in its banks this week.
The newly revamped web site is called the “National Water Prediction Service.” The retooled site has a new look and replaces the Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service, which has been in service for a decade or more.
According to the graphic site that plots the elevation of the North Platte River at Saratoga near Bridge Street, spring runoff in the river will reach an elevation of 6.8 feet around midnight on Friday before beginning to ebb slightly on Saturday, June 1.
The long-range forecast for the river, extending to June 6, indicates the North Platte at Saratoga could trend above the action level of 7.5 feet on June 3rd, but the probability of reaching minor flood level of 8.5 feet remains low through the first week of June.
Bigfoot 99 will continue to monitor the situation.
The post River In Platte Valley Should Remain Within Banks This Run-off Season first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 29, 2024 |
Photo – Robert Taylor plays Walt Longmire – Courtesy Longmire Days website
The Town of Buffalo, Wyoming is gearing up for this summer’s celebration of Longmire Days.
Buffalo is the setting for the Craig Johnson series of novels about a Wyoming marshal, Walt Longmire, that was made into a television series.
The Longmire series was a success in print. It became the highest-rated original drama series on the A&E network. The episodes follow Longmire, the dedicated lawman who is haunted by his dead wife, his daughter, deputies, and others as they investigate major crimes in the fictional Absaroka County in Wyoming.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102656/0529_Longmire.mp3The Buffalo Town council approved a number of requests from the Longmire foundation for this year’s celebration of Longmire Days. The council approved a couple of street closures and a designated open container for the event, which will take place from July 18 through the 21st.
Craig Johnson, the author of the series, along with Robert Taylor, the Australian actor who played the starring role in the series, are scheduled to be in Buffalo, the home of Walt Longmire for the celebration.
Longmire Days begins on July 18th with a reading by Craig Johnson and a history of early Johnson County lawmen, like Sheriff William “Red” Angus the former soldier who became a principal leader and combatant during the Johnson County Cattle War.
Jennifer McCormick, with the Longmire Foundation, spoke to the Buffalo Town council, seeking various requests for this summer’s events.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102654/0529_Longmire-2.mp3A 5K race, a talent show, discussions with the Longmire television cast and a session entitled, “So You Want to Write a Book,” and a pancake breakfast and a concert featuring Jalan Crossland are all part of this year’s four-day event in Buffalo from July 18 through July 21st.
The post Buffalo, WY Gears Up For Longmire Days first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 29, 2024 |
Photo – Mike Reed and fellow inductees – Courtesy Rawlins Police Department
Former Rawlins Police Chief Mike Reed has been inducted into the Wyoming Law Enforcement Hall of Fame.
During a May 15th ceremony in Cheyenne, Reed, a former Rawlins police chief and Senior Policy Advisor for the governor’s office, was inducted into the Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police Hall of Fame.
WASCOP Executive Director Allen Thompson explained his organization.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102615/0529_Chief-Reed-1.mp3Thompson said Chief Reed was inducted into the WASCOP Hall of Fame because of his long-term dedication to law enforcement in Wyoming. Inductees must have a positive impact on the entire state, said Thompson.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102645/0529_Chief-Reed-2.mp3Reed began his career with the Rawlins Police Department in October of 1988. In 2001, he became the chief of police for the Rawlins PD.
In 2004, Reed was voted by the Wyoming Peace Officers Association as the “Peace Officer of the Year”.
In 2012, after 23 years of serving the community, Reed retired from the Rawlins Police Department and took a job with then-Governor Matthew Mead as a Senior Policy Advisor, focusing on impaired driving issues.
Four years later, in 2016, Governor Mead appointed Reed as the State Fire Marshal, a position he held until 2023.
During the May 15th Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Reed was joined by Albany County Sheriff Jim Pond and Laramie County Sheriff Danny Glick, both retired. Thompson said the two men made lasting impacts on policing in the state and across the country.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102647/0529_Chief-Reed-3.mp3Retired Torrington Police Chief Billy Janes was also inducted into the Wyoming Law Enforcement Hall of Fame on May 15th. Thompson said Janes is the longest serving chief of police in Torrington, holding the position for 30 years. His dedication to keeping the youth of Wyoming safe warranted his induction into the Hall of Fame, said Thompson.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102649/0529_Chief-Reed-4.mp3Despite retiring from law enforcement in 2023, Thompson said former Rawlins Police Chief Reed continues to make an impact on the next generation of police officers through his participation in the Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/29102652/0529_Chief-Reed-5.mp3In its nomination letter, WASCOP writes that Reed’s long law enforcement career provides the foundation for his nomination into the Wyoming Law Enforcement Hall of Fame.
The post Retired Rawlins Chief Of Police Inducted Into Hall Of Fame first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 28, 2024 |
Photo – Dempsey’s Go Fund Me photo on Facebook – Courtesy Jimmy Dempsey
A Saratoga resident’s request for public information has led to a crusade to oust the town clerk. On March 15th, Saratoga resident Jimmy Dempsey emailed Town Clerk Jenn Anderson asking for the contact information for Public Works Director Emery Penner. Dempsey said construction near his home on the south side of town left the roads in an unacceptable condition and he wanted the town to clean it up.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094358/0528_Citizen-vs-Town-Clerk-1.mp3Dempsey said Clerk Anderson refused to provide him with the direct email addresses of any town hall staff, such as the public works director and the mayor. Anderson offered to forward Dempsey’s emails to the appropriate person. Dempsey said he was not satisfied with that answer.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094401/0528_Citizen-vs-Town-Clerk-2.mp3Dempsey took his case to Wyoming Public Records Ombudsman Charlotte Martinez, who was able to get the town to respond to the request. Dempsey expressed his disappointment with the way Town Clerk Anderson handled his records request.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094403/0528_Citizen-vs-Town-Clerk-3.mp3Dempsey said on April 1st, he submitted a Freedom of Information Act request for publicly available information about town employees from the past year. Also included in his records request were copies of the town budget for the past two years and all ordinance violations which resulted in fines from the past year. Dempsey said Clerk Anderson quoted him $466 for the information.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094406/0528_Citizen-vs-Town-Clerk-4.mp3Saratoga Resolution Number 2019-08 states, “the Town shall charge an applicant the reasonable costs of producing and constructing a copy of an electronic public record for inspection and copying. This cost may include, but is not limited to, the time spent retrieving, compiling, sorting, reviewing, redacting, formatting, converting, or copying the electronic public record…”
The same ordinance sets the cost of office clerical work at $15.50 an hour.
Dempsey said receiving a copy of the ordinance violations was going to cost the most money. After removing that portion of his request, Dempsey said the price went down to $155.
The matter escalated when Dempsey, admittedly out of spite, attempted to pay the $155 bill in unrolled pennies. He said Clerk Anderson refused to accept 15,500 coins as payment for the information.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094411/0528_Citizen-vs-Town-Clerk-5.mp3Dempsey said Anderson would not take the pennies unless they were counted at the local bank. The Saratoga resident refused to return to the bank with bags full of coins.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094413/0528_Citizen-vs-Town-Clerk-6.mp3In an email to the town, Wyoming Public Records Ombudsman Martinez stated, “I do not condone Mr. Dempsey’s decision and understand your initial refusal to accept the payment. Ultimately, it is the Town of Saratoga’s decision to release records or not. That being said, Resolution No. 2019-08, nor Saratoga’s Public Records Request Form, specify how payment needs to be made. There is no information on what type of payment the Town will accept for public record requests. I see no language in those two documents preventing Mr. Dempsey from paying in change.”
Dempsey admitted to not actually wanting the information he requested through the Freedom of Information Act. Since much of the information he asked for is available on the town’s website, Dempsey said was offended by the clerk’s quoted price.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094416/0528_Citizen-vs-Town-Clerk-7.mp3Dempsey submitted his initial FOIA request on April 1st. The Wyoming Public Information Act gives municipalities 30 calendar days to comply with a request. The clerk’s refusal to take his payment has put the town over the legally mandated deadline, said Dempsey. The Saratoga resident is now calling for the removal of Clerk Anderson.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094418/0528_Citizen-vs-Town-Clerk-8.mp3Dempsey took his beef with the town to the streets. The Saratoga Sun reports that, on April 22nd, Dempsey could be seen outside of town hall wearing a bright yellow coat and carrying a pink sign calling for Mayor Chuck Davis to remove Town Clerk Jennifer Anderson for “neglecting her duty.”
Bigfoot99 reached out to Mayor Davis for the town’s side of the story. The mayor said Town Attorney Kylie Waldrip advised him not to speak publicly about the matter.
Dempsey is not done with his crusade against Clerk Anderson. The Saratoga resident has set up a GoFundMe page to pay for a court case against the town. Titled “Support Jimmy’s Fight for Transparency,” Dempsey is seeking $50,000 to “pay for litigation against the town of Saratoga Wyoming”. As of the writing of this story, no one has donated to the fund.
The post Saratoga Resident Wants Town Clerk Removed From Position first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 28, 2024 |
Photo – Flyer for Life Between The Rails – Courtesy UW American Heritage Center
The University of Wyoming’s American Heritage Center is looking for current and former Union Pacific workers and their families to contribute stories about the railroad.
Project Assistant for the American Heritage Center at the University of Wyoming Tana Libolt is putting together a project called “Life Between the Rails: An Oral History of the Union Pacific Railroad.” Libolt explained what the project entails.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094446/0528_Railroad-Stories-1.mp3Libolt said she is trying to collect stories from every type of Union Pacific employee, from engineers to section crews. The project assistant said she would also like to hear stories from minority railroad workers.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094448/0528_Railroad-Stories-2.mp3Libolt is asking former and current Union Pacific employees to meet and discuss their time with the railroad. The recorded meetings will be compiled and made available through the American Heritage Center.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094450/0528_Railroad-Stories-3.mp3Libolt said she has already held two in-person historical discussions in Cheyenne where she heard interesting and relevant stories.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094453/0528_Railroad-Stories-4.mp3Libolt said, so far, she has mainly interviewed older UP workers. The project assistant said she is working on collecting stories from a younger generation of railroad employees.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094455/0528_Railroad-Stories-5.mp3Libolt said older railroad employees had to adjust to rapid advances in technology. She said before computer aids, driving a locomotive took years of training to master. Some workers embraced the new technology while others resented it.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094457/0528_Railroad-Stories-6.mp3Libolt said the majority of stories she has collected from former UP workers have been positive. She said working together on the railroad created lasting friendships.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094500/0528_Railroad-Stories-7.mp3Libolt encouraged past and present Union Pacific workers and their families to contact her to contribute to the Life Between the Rails oral history project.
To submit a story for the project, email the American Heritage Center at ahcrails@uwyo.edu or call 766-5575.
Libolt said the project is expected to finish by the end of September. Afterwards, the stories collected through the project will be compiled together and made available to the public through the American Heritage Center.
The post UW Department Looking To Interview Railroad Employees first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 28, 2024 |
Photo – Hometown Hero generic image – Courtesy Time for Kids
A resident in Hanna is attempting to generate town pride by creating a public service award.
Lately, the condition of Hanna residents’ yards have been a hot button topic in the former coal town. Last year, former mayor Jon Ostling attempted to institute higher fines for properties containing things deemed by the town as a nuisance, such as junk cars and excessively high grass and weeds. The townspeople expressed their disapproval for Ordinance 401, saying it was too broad and would unfairly penalize senior citizens.
Ordinance 401 would have also brought code enforcement under the supervision of the town council. Currently, a code enforcement agent must work under the Hanna Marshal’s Office. Without a marshal, Hanna officials have no way to force residents to clean up their yards.
Julie Freeman is a nurse at the Medicine Bow Medical Clinic and a Hanna resident. Freeman said she believes that neighbors can help each other make Hanna a nicer place to live.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094421/0528_Hanna-Heroes-1.mp3Freeman came up with the Hanna Hometown Hero Award to recognize residents who work hard to beautify the town. Freeman said she envisions people taking great pride in receiving the award.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094425/0528_Hanna-Heroes-2.mp3Freeman said she sees a Hanna Hometown Hero Award being used as a way to show that a person is a hard worker. She said the award can give a person a leg up in their education and career.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094428/0528_Hanna-Heroes-3.mp3As well as a physical award, Hanna Hometown Heroes will receive $100 in prize money. Freeman said she would like Hanna residents and businesses to contribute to the prize fund. She said the money will be an incentive for people to volunteer in the community.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094431/0528_Hanna-Heroes-4.mp3After receiving help from an individual, Hanna residents can submit the person’s name for an award.
Freeman said she intends to form a committee of Hanna residents to select a Hometown Hero from the list of names every month.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094434/0528_Hanna-Heroes-5.mp3Freeman hasn’t yet settled on the details of how nominations will be collected. She said residents may submit their nominations to local businesses along with monetary donations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094436/0528_Hanna-Heroes-6.mp3Freeman said she won’t be the one to decide who receives the Hanna Hometown Hero Award. She said a committee made up of residents familiar with the townspeople will choose the monthly award winner.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094439/0528_Hanna-Heroes-7.mp3Freeman presented her idea to the Hanna town council during the May 15th meeting. She said the council supported the award, but refused to contribute town money toward the prize.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094442/0528_Hanna-Heroes-8.mp3Freeman said she doesn’t want to handle the money. Instead, she’ll take any money donated to the Hanna Hometown Hero Award and give it to a local pastor to safeguard.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/28094444/0528_Hanna-Heroes-9.mp3Freeman is still gauging community support for the Hanna Hometown Hero Award. She’ll need local businesses to agree to collect prize money donations before the award can be created.
The post Hanna Resident Wishes To Improve Pride For Town first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 24, 2024 |
*Photo - Highway 130 - Bigfoot99 file photo*
The two scenic byways that traverse the mountains of Carbon County—WY 130 and 70—opened for summer traveling season on Thursday morning.
Crews from Saratoga and Baggs started work on the 23-mile stretch across Battle Pass above Encampment in early May. Multiple rotary plows, snowcats and other heavy equipment were used to clear large drifts of snow.
Wyoming 70 opened shortly after 8:30 Thursday morning. The Snowy Range Road past Lake Marie and Medicine Bow Peak opened about three hours later around 11:30 Thursday morning.
By afternoon, snowfall was reported on both alpine passes.
Drivers are advised to use caution on both roadways. Wyoming 70 tops out at 9,955 feet as it crosses the Continental Divide at Battle Pass. The Snowy Range Scenic Byway, originally a wagon road built in the 1870s, reaches a height of 10,847 feet.
The two scenic routes are great excursions, but caution should be used. Motorists will likely encounter both pedestrians and cyclists on the road.
So be prepared to share the road if you make the trip. And get out of your car and enjoy the scenery from the top of the world.
Stay alert for WYDOT workers, as well. WYDOT maintenance crews may be in the area in the coming weeks to make repairs to items like guardrails or signposts damaged by snow this past winter. Stay alert for workers in the area and be prepared to slow down.
The post Scenic Byways In Southern Carbon County Opened first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 24, 2024 |
*Photo - "Click It or Ticket" logo - Bigfoot99 file photo*
Drivers should be aware that The Wyoming Highway Patrol is teaming up with Law Enforcement across Wyoming to urge drivers to buckle up during the national Click It or Ticket high-visibility seat belt enforcement effort over the Memorial Holiday weekend. The national seat belt campaign, which coincides with the holiday, the traditional start of summer driving, is happening from May 20 to June 2, 2024.
The post “Click It Or Ticket” To Be Enforced This Holiday Weekend first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 24, 2024 |
*Photo - "I Voted" sticker - Bigfoot99 file photo*
The deadline for candidates to file for county and municipal seats is quickly approaching.
May 31st is the final day for candidates to submit their names for one of the multiple town council seats opening this year around the county.
During Tuesday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting in Encampment, County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett said people must file their applications in the appropriate location.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110422/0524_Local-Elections-1.mp3Secretary of State Chuck Gray has instituted new laws for this election as a way to prevent fraud. Secretary Gray has limited the time that absentee ballots may be received and submitted. To comply with state law, County Clerk Bartlett said her office will have absentee ballots available beginning on July 23rd .
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110424/0524_Local-Elections-2.mp3Along with changing the rules for absentee ballots, Secretary Gray has limited the time voters may change their party affiliation. Clerk Bartlett said she is trying to make sure that residents are aware of the election law changes.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110426/0524_Local-Elections-3.mp3Commissioner John Johnson asked if residents had any negative comments regarding the election law changes. Clerk Bartlett said people seem to misunderstand that, while the date to register to vote hasn’t changed, the ability to change political parties ended on May 15th.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110429/0524_Local-Elections-4.mp3Three seats are up for election on the Board of Carbon County Commissioners. Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones and Commissioners John Espy and Garrett Irene are running for reelection. Commissioner Irene was appointed to the board in December to fill Byron Barkhurst’s vacant council seat.
Three council seats are up for election in Baggs, two in Dixon, two in Elk Mountain, and two in Encampment. Two council seats and the mayor are open for election in Hanna. The entirety of the Medicine Bow town council is up for election, including the mayor. Rawlins has three city council positions open for election. Riverside has three council seats open. Saratoga has three seats open as well. And Sinclair also has three open council seats up for election this year.
In Saratoga, three seats are open in this year’s election. Two are for a four year term and one for a two-year term.
The post Candidate Filing Period Closes May 31st first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 24, 2024 |
*Photo - River Flood Factor table - Courtesy NWS*
The National Weather Service says late season snowfall in the mountains means that flooding can’t be ruled out.
The Cheyenne branch of the National Weather Service is having a series of weekly meetings to discuss the possibility of flooding across the state.
During yesterday’s online meeting, Senior Service Hydrologist Tony Anderson said that his National Water Prediction maps show that Saratoga has a 50% chance of experiencing a minor flood this spring or summer. Anderson said the North Platte River near Encampment and Sinclair is half as likely to flood.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110408/0524_Flood-Worries-1.mp3Anderson said flooding on the North Platte River isn’t entirely dependent on the amount of snowpack in the Snowy Range. The National Weather Service hydrologist said high temperatures and spring rain are important factors to consider when predicting floods.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110410/0524_Flood-Worries-2.mp3Anderson said the snowpack in the North Platte Basin is at 126% of normal. The hydrologist said late season snowfall is matching the spring melt. Low nighttime temperatures are also contributing to the higher-than-average snow totals, said Anderson.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110413/0524_Flood-Worries-3.mp3Anderson said high forecasted temperatures are causing him to pay more attention to the North Platte Basin. As the days grow hotter, the chance of flooding increases. Mountain rain also contributes to flooding, said Anderson.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110416/0524_Flood-Worries-4.mp3Moving away from the North Platte River, Anderson said the Little Snake River isn’t expected to rise. However, Anderson said he can’t entirely rule out future flooding.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110419/0524_Flood-Worries-5.mp3The Cheyenne National Weather Service will continue to hold weekly flood meetings until June 13th. Bigfoot99 will monitor the situation and report on any potential flooding in Carbon County.
The post National Weather Service Discusses Flood Potential first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 24, 2024 |
*Photo - Arbor Day tree sale announcement - Courtesy City of Rawlins*
The City of Rawlins is holding its annual Arbor Day tree sale next week.
The first Arbor Day was held on April 10, 1872, in Nebraska City, Nebraska. Within 20 years, Arbor Day was celebrated in every state except Delaware. On April 28, 1972, almost 100 years to the day of the first celebration, President Richard Nixon designated Arbor Day as a national holiday.
Arbor Day is celebrated by planting trees. Here in Carbon County, April 28th is typically too cold for tree planting, so the City of Rawlins has chosen to celebrate the holiday later in the season.
Rawlins Mayor Terry Weickum designated May 31st as Arbor Day.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110431/0524_Rawlins-Arbor-Day-1.mp3On May 30th and 31st, the city will hold an Arbor Day tree sale in the Rawlins Family Recreation Center. Recreation Director Nikki Howell said she has toned back this year’s celebration. Last year, the city partnered with University of Wyoming Extension to offer horticulture classes and build a geodesic dome. This year, Howell said she will simply be selling trees.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110433/0524_Rawlins-Arbor-Day-2.mp3The tree sale runs from 8:00am to 5:00pm next Thursday and Friday. Howell said she’s willing to extend the sale beyond the set times to ensure everyone can buy a tree.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110436/0524_Rawlins-Arbor-Day-3.mp3Howell said people who visit the rec center will be entered into a raffle for the most expensive tree the city has to offer. The rec director said she doesn’t know what the raffle tree will be yet.
Howell said 106 deciduous, evergreen, and fruit trees will be available to purchase during next week’s tree sale. The rec director said the plants have been specifically chosen because they grow well in our climate.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110438/0524_Rawlins-Arbor-Day-4.mp3Howell has a plan for unsold trees. The rec director said remaining fruit trees will be planted in the city’s urban orchard near Key Club Park. Non-fruiting trees will be placed in the Rawlins Cemetery.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110441/0524_Rawlins-Arbor-Day-5.mp3An Arbor Day celebration is a requirement for the City of Rawlins to maintain its Tree City USA status through the Arbor Day Foundation. Howell explained what being recognized as a Tree City USA means.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/24110444/0524_Rawlins-Arbor-Day-6.mp3Rawlins has been a Tree City USA for the past 29 years straight.
The Rawlins annual Arbor Day tree sale is next Thursday and Friday, May 30th and 31st, from 8:00am to 5:00pm at the Rawlins Family Recreation Center, located at 1616 Harshman Street.
For more information about the tree sale, contact Rawlins Parks Superintendent Nate Williams at 324-7529 or email nwilliams@rawlinswy.gov.
The post Rawlins Will Celebrate Arbor Day May 31st first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 24, 2024 |
Photo – Cowgirls Basketball Head Coach Heather Ezell – Courtesy gowyo.com
University of Wyoming Athletics announced a multi-year extension with Women’s Basketball Head Coach Heather Ezell on Thursday. The extension runs through the 2028-29 season.
Ezell expressed her appreciation for the contract extension to lead the team. “It’s an opportunity to take this program to uncharted territory,” Ezell said. “Our goal, as always, is to win championships and compete at the highest level.”
In her first two seasons leading the Cowgirls, Ezell compiled 41 victories and led Wyoming to back-to-back trips to the WNIT. UW has been 24-12 in Mountain West play under Ezell, finishing in second and third place, respectively in the league. The 23 wins by UW in 2022-23, are a program record for the most wins by a first-year head coach.
The post UW Athletics Offers Multi-Year Extension To Women’s Basketball Coach first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 23, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga Outdoor Swimming Pool – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga’s recreation director will resign next month.
During Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting. Recreation Director Kim Hemenway tendered her resignation. Hemenway said her last day will be June 14th.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110618/0523_Toga-Recreation-1.mp3Councilman Jerry Fluty asked Hemenway why she was resigning. The rec director said the job is not what she expected. Hemenway also cited a lack of staff and low pay as reasons why she is leaving.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110620/0523_Toga-Recreation-2.mp3Mayor Chuck Davis said the town’s pool manager, Whisper Bunch, also resigned. Mayor Davis asked the council to authorize him to fill the two open positions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110622/0523_Toga-Recreation-3.mp3The council voted to advertise and fill the open pool manager and recreation director positions.
The town is also looking for a part-time assistant recreation director. Mayor Davis suggested changing the position to full-time. The mayor said a full-time assistant can run the pool in the summer and help with gym activities in the winter.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110624/0523_Toga-Recreation-4.mp3Mayor Davis said making the assistant rec director position full-time may attract more candidates. The Mayor thanked the rec director for her time. Councilman Mike Cooley said he harbors no ill will toward Hemenway’s decision.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110626/0523_Toga-Recreation-5.mp3The council reluctantly voted to accept Hemenway’s resignation.
Hemenway has been the town’s recreation director for roughly one year. She took the job after Sarah Laughlin resigned from the position on May 7th of last year.
The post Saratoga Recreation Director Resigns first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 23, 2024 |
Photo – County Road 201 – Courtesy Google Maps
The Carbon County commissioners voted this week not to treat County Road 201 with dust reducing chemicals after residents complain.
Carbon County is home to nearly 1,000 miles of county-maintained roads. Most of those roads are not paved. To keep the dust down on the dirt roads, the county Road and Bridge Department uses magnesium chloride. The chemical is effective at reducing dust on most county roads. However, when it rains, mag chloride absorbs moisture, making some roads extremely slippery.
During Tuesday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting held in Encampment, local resident Arla Strasser said mag chloride treatment on County Road 201, northeast of Riverside, makes the road impassable after it rains.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110603/0523_Count-Road-201_1.mp3Strasser said nearby Baggot Road is also treated with mag chloride, but it does not become as slick after the treatment as County Road 201. She said the climate and composition of the county road makes it unsuitable for anti-dust chemical treatment.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110606/0523_Count-Road-201_2.mp3Rich Bolkovatz also lives on County Road 201. Bolkovatz is the president of Reiman Corp, a Cheyenne-based contracting firm. Bolokvatz calculated that the county will spend roughly $140,000 treating the dirt road with mag chloride over the next five years. He said laying gravel on the road surface instead will cost the county approximately $175,000. Bolokvatz said the gravel will pay for itself after a little more than eight years.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110609/0523_Count-Road-201_3.mp3Bolokvatz asked the commissioners to stop spraying County Road 201 with mag chloride for a few years if it can’t afford to lay gravel. He said the chemical will eventually dissipate, returning the road to normal.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110611/0523_Count-Road-201_4.mp3Commissioner John Johnson said magnesium chloride reduces the need to grade the road. If County Road 201 is removed from the mag chloride list, Commissioner Johnson said the road may receive less maintenance.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110613/0523_Count-Road-201_5.mp3Arla Strasser said she was happy with the compromise. Strasser thanked Road and Bridge Superintendent Fritz for the hard work of her crew. The Encampment resident said the condition of County Road 201 may make it difficult for an emergency vehicle to respond to any life-threatening situation in the area.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110616/0523_Count-Road-201_6.mp3The county commissioners voted to remove County Road 201 from the mag chloride list.
Road and Bridge Superintendent Candice Fritz said the county road is on her short list to receive gravel. However, Fritz said she must first have enough money in her department’s budget.
The post County Road 201 Near Riverside Will No Longer Receive Dust Treatment first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 23, 2024 |
Photo – East side of North Platte Valley Medical Center – Courtesy NPVMC
In Saratoga, the North Platte Valley Medical Clinic has been certified as a Critical Access Hospital by the federal agency that oversees the process.
In a statement Thursday, the hospital announced that CMS, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, has released the long-awaited certification letter.
CAH certification is necessary for the hospital in Saratoga to receive cost-based reimbursement from the federal government for services provided to Medicare patients.
A final step remains. A federal accreditor will arrive without notice sometime in the near future to perform a survey as part of the final steps in the hospital gaining Medicare certification.
The letter announcing the important milestone arrived after former Chief Executive Officer Jeff Mincy returned to his home state of Texas to pursue a Christian ministry. Mincy’s last date at the clinic was May 17.
An interim director is already working at the clinic.
The NPVMC’s board of directors chose Scott Duke to serve as interim director.
According to a release from the medical facility, Duke brings with him more than 30 years of experience in healthcare administration and has been in leadership roles with rural hospitals and healthcare organizations in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota. Duke was previously the President and CEO of the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations. Duke also served as Vice President of Regional Operations for the Billings Clinic where he was responsible for strategic and operational oversight for a network of CAHs and outpatient clinics in Montana and Wyoming.
The North Platte Valley Medical Clinic will celebrate its one-year anniversary of opening one week from today, on May 30th.
The post NPVMC Certified Critical Access Hospital first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 23, 2024 |
Photo – Overhead image of area for pedestrian tube – Courtesy Google Maps
In Rawlins, work is progressing slowly on two state funded transportation projects. The Rawlins Urban Systems Committee collaborates with the state and the county on transportation improvement projects. Currently, the board is working with WYDOT to build a pedestrian underpass at North Higley Boulevard, where it intersects with Harshman Street and Aberdeen Boulevard. The city council approved the project in September of 2021.
The tunnel will allow pedestrians to travel between the Highland Hills residential area, nearby school campuses, and the Carbon County Higher Education Center without having to cross the busy highway.
During Tuesday’s Rawlins city council meeting, Councilman Darril Garner, who is the council liaison to the Urban Systems Committee, provided an update on the board’s activities. Councilman Garner said this summer, a geologist will perform a study on the local groundwater to determine if a pumping system will be needed to keep the pedestrian underpass from flooding.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110628/0524_Rawlins-Streets-1.mp3While construction of the underpass is going on, Councilman Garner said WYDOT will leave an open lane of travel on the highway. The councilman said shutting down North Higley Boulevard will negatively impact the delivery of wind turbine parts to project sites in the area.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110630/0524_Rawlins-Streets-2.mp3Urban Systems Committee Chairwoman Judy Dixon was on hand to deliver the board’s yearly update to the city council. Dixon said the Urban Systems Committee receives $140,000 a year from the state. The board chairwoman said the money may be spent on small projects or saved for bigger jobs.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110632/0524_Rawlins-Streets-3.mp3Dixon said the state has recently increased its contribution to the Urban Systems Committee to $155,000 a year. The board chairwoman said the Urban Systems Committee has been saving money for a long time. Dixon said depending on what the geologist finds, they might have enough money to begin the North Higley Boulevard pedestrian underpass project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110634/0524_Rawlins-Streets-4.mp3Dixon said the Rawlins Urban Systems Committee has $1.9 million saved up. She said WYDOT confirmed that the amount should cover the cost of the pedestrian underpass.
Dixon said the Urban Systems Committee has identified another project in the city. The board chairwoman said the 6th Street Bridge, which crosses over the Union Pacific railroad tracks, needs to be repaired. Dixon said WYDOT will pay for the bulk of the $2 million project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/23110637/0524_Rawlins-Streets-5.mp3Dixon said she’ll have more information about the 6th Street Bridge repairs at a later date. The Urban Systems Committee chairwoman said work on the North Higley Boulevard pedestrian underpass should begin next year.
The post Work Progressing On New Pedestrian Tunnel In Rawlins first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 23, 2024 |
Photo – Sundance Wicks – Courtesy Green Bay Athletics
Sundance Wicks was introduced as the 23rd men’s basketball coach in UW history on May 12. Wicks replaces his old boss, Jeff Linder, who left Laramie to become an associate head coach at Texas Tech after four, mostly rough, seasons as the head coach in Laramie.
The hiring of Wicks marks his second stint in Laramie after he served as an assistant on Linder’s staff from 2020-23.
Wicks spent last season as head coach at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, leading the Phoenix to a 15-win turnaround after finishing the previous season 3-29.
One of the first people to congratulate Wicks on the new job in Laramie was his old coach at Wyoming, Larry Shyatt. The legendary Shyatt was the first college coach to offer Wicks a basketball scholarship when he was a junior at Campbell County High in 1998.
Wicks won Horizon League coach of the year and was also named the Joe B. Hall national coach of the year, which honors the best first-year head coach in Division I basketball.
Wicks had previous head coaching experience at NCAA Division II Missouri Western from 2018-20. He left the head job to join Linder’s staff when he was hired at UW in 2020.
Wicks was on UW’s staff during the Cowboys’ run to the NCAA Tournament in 2022. His biggest focus since taking over at UW two weeks ago has been putting a roster together this late in the recruiting cycle.
Wicks is known for his mantra, “Bring your own juice.”
He’ll have to do exactly that as the Cowboys new head coach. Wyoming is coming off two disappointing seasons. Ticket sales and attendance took a hit the last couple of years.
Wicks is looking to connect with his roster and with Wyoming fans as he rebuilds the Cowboy basketball program.
The new Wyoming head basketball coach will bring two assistants, Nic Reynolds and Pat Monaghan, from Green Bay. Three others coaches, Nick Whitmore, Shaun Vandiver and Tim O’Flannigan, were part of the staff during last year’s 15-17 season.
The post 23rd Men’s Basketball Coach For Wyoming Looks Forward To Rebuilding Program first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 22, 2024 |
Photo – Rotory plow on Snowy Range – Courtesy WYDOT
Good news for travelers. WYDOT says the two scenic byways in Carbon County, the Snowy Range Road and Battle Pass, may open on time for Memorial Day Weekend.
The opening of the two high-country roadways signal the unofficial start of summer for residents in the Platte Valley.
When winter snow gets to be too much, the Wyoming Department of Transportation closes Highway 130, through the Snowy Range Mountains, and Highway 70, over Battle Pass. The two seasonal roads are left to the elements throughout the winter.
Each spring, WYDOT crews begin clearing dozens of feet of packed snow off the mountain passes in an effort to have the roads open by Memorial Day weekend.
WYDOT Senior Public Relations Specialist Andrea Staley said both Highways 70 and 130 are expected to open on time.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111211/0522_WYDOT-Work-1.mp3Lower elevations across Albany and Carbon Counties received less snow this winter when compared to last year. However, Staley said the mountains got plenty of snow. Despite the high snowpack in the mountains, Staley said WYDOT plow crews are making good progress.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111214/0522_WYDOT-Work-2.mp3Staley said WYDOT recently began using a new method to clear the two mountain passes. Instead of relying solely on bulldozers to move the snow, Staley said the transportation department uses lightweight tracked vehicles, called snowcats, to remove the highest snow drifts. After the snowcats cut down the drifts, large rotary snow blowers finish the job. Staley said the new process allows plow crews to open the passes more efficiently.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111216/0522_WYDOT-Work-3.mp3The snowcats are faster and cheaper to use. Staley said operators use detailed maps to avoid obstacles hidden under the snow. The rotary plows then follow the trail laid out by the snowcats, limiting the amount of damage done to roadside barriers and signs.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111219/0522_WYDOT-Work-4.mp3Staley said the snowcats began working in the Snowy Range on May 6. However, snowstorms in early May postponed the rotary plow crews. Despite the delay, Staley said Highway 130 is still set to open on time.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111221/0522_WYDOT-Work-5.mp3Staley said Battle Pass is also set to open this weekend.
The WYDOT public relations specialist didn’t want to give an exact date for the openings, but said this Friday isn’t out of the question.
The post Southern Carbon County’s Scenic Byways May Be Open By Memorial Day first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 22, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins notice – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The City of Rawlins received a passing grade this week for its drinking water. Municipalities throughout Wyoming are required to periodically test their drinking water for harmful contaminants. The test results are compiled into an annual water quality report by the Environmental Protection Agency.
In Rawlins, the latest report shows that the city’s drinking water meets or exceeds all federal and state requirements.
Rawlins Superintendent of Water and Wastewater Bud Dimick explained a few of the contaminates the city must test for.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111138/0522_Rawlins-Water-1.mp3Arsenic levels of .006 milligrams per liter were found in a water sample taken at the Sage Creek Basin. Rawlins Public Relations Officer Mira Miller said the amount of the harmful element falls well below federal guidelines. Discovering arsenic may be alarming, but Miller said small amounts of the element occur naturally.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111143/0522_Rawlins-Water-2.mp3The city’s primary source of water comes from a collection of springs at the Sage Creek Basin, located approximately thirty miles south of Rawlins.
According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, ground water springs are more likely to contain trace amounts of naturally occurring arsenic than lakes and reservoirs.
Municipalities are also required to test for radioactive contaminants. Water and Wastewater Superintendent Dimick said radioactive contaminants found in the city’s drinking water fall below dangerous levels.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111145/0522_Rawlins-Water-3.mp3Uranium is also a naturally-occurring mineral found in local water sources, mostly through erosion. The EPA’s water quality report indicates that the city’s drinking water contains 11 micrograms of uranium per liter. A violation occurs when 30 or more micrograms per liter is discovered. Dimick said the water samples used for testing are mainly collected right from the water treatment plant. The water superintendent said the city consistently meets the government’s water requirements.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111147/0522_Rawlins-Water-4.mp3Dimick said every month, he performs bacteriological testing, called BAC-T, at 10 different locations throughout the city. The water superintendent said the city’s water contains little to no harmful bacteria.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111150/0522_Rawlins-Water-5.mp3Like many towns across the country, Rawlins uses chlorine to control bacteria in its drinking water. The EPA requires a certain amount of the chemical to be in the water supply. Dimick said he can regulate chlorine amounts to ensure the water is clean, but also palatable.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111152/0522_Rawlins-Water-6.mp3In the past, turbidity, or the number of particles found in the water, has been a problem for the city. On August 18th, 2022, Rawlins received a violation from the EPA for the cloudiness of its water.
Dimick said work at the Sage Creek Spring boxes caused the high turbidity. The water superintendent said none of the turbid water reached residents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111155/0522_Rawlins-Water-7.mp3The most recent water quality report shows that turbidity levels in the city’s drinking water are once again within acceptable levels.
The Environmental Protection Agency has found that the drinking water in Rawlins is safe.
For more information or to request a copy of the latest EPA water quality report, call Rawlins Public Relations Officer Mira Miller at 328-4500 extension 1022. A digital copy of the report can be found at www.rawlinswy.gov/watertreatment. Physical copies of the water quality report are available at the Rawlins City Hall, located at 521 West Cedar Street.
The post EPA Water Test Results – Rawlins Water Is Safe first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 22, 2024 |
Photo – Spring runoff causes high water in Wyoming’s rivers – Courtesy NWS
Outdoor adventurers are urged to use caution on Wyoming waterways from now through Memorial Day Weekend.
The Green River will be running cold, high and swift, according to officials.
Mike Callahan, civil engineer of the River Operations Group for the Bureau of Reclamation Upper Colorado Region, reports that the current conditions on the Green River can overcome even the strongest swimmer very quickly, providing very little time to react. Recreationists should take caution and be aware of the potential dangers associated with the increased flows.
Here in Carbon County, the ten-day forecast for the North Platte at Saratoga indicates the river will stay below action stage of 7.5 feet through May 30th, a week from tomorrow. Then the river could begin to rise to around 6,500 cubic feet per second through town, according to the outlook.
All in all, it looks like a fun and manageable holiday weekend in southern Wyoming.
Meanwhile, if you have travel plans for Yellowstone National Park over the holiday break, cold, wet weather from the Pacific Northwest will mean spell ice-covered roads and below freezing temperatures in Yellowstone National Park through Memorial Day Weekend—traditionally one of the biggest draws of year for the park.
Much of northern Wyoming could see snow this weekend. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the Bighorn Mountains with as much as 6 to 9 inches of snow, impacting travel on the Powder River and Granite Passes, which recently reopened for the season.
As much as seven inches of snow could fall in Shoshone National Forest and the eastern edge of Yellowstone National Park where a winter weather advisory is in effect.
Saratoga is looking great by comparison!
The post Wyoming Waterways May Be A Danger During Holiday Weekend first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 22, 2024 |
Photo – Construction of wall in South Texas – Courtesy Texas Tribune
U.S. Senator John Barrasso, on Thursday, introduced legislation that would require unobligated COVID-19 funds be used to finish building the wall along our southern border.
Wyoming’s senior senator introduced the legislation as an amendment to the Border Security Act (S. 4361).
The Build the Wall Act of 2024 would establish the “Southern Border Wall Construction Fund” and require the Department of Homeland Security to use any unobligated Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLRF) to construct and maintain physical barriers along the southern border of the United States.
Senator Barrasso said in a statement, “Before President Biden came into office, we were well on our way to a secure and safe southern border. But on his first day in office, the president and Democrats rolled out the welcome mat for millions of illegal immigrants to come into our nation. We must hold Democrats accountable for their open border policies that have created the worst border crisis in our nation’s history.”
Senator Barrasso said if Democrats are serious about securing our border, “they should have no issues voting for a policy that actually works and is already paid for.”
Senate File 4361, the “Build the Wall Act,” says that the money in the fund “shall be used by the Secretary of Homeland Security to construct and maintain physical barriers along the southern international border of the United States.”
The post Wyoming Senator Introduces Legislation To Finish Wall Along Southern Border first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 22, 2024 |
Photo – A painting of Parco Hotel in Sinclair – Courtesy Joel Johnson, Artist
The town of Sinclair is preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary. On Saturday, August 17th, the town of Sinclair will hold a centennial celebration.
Sinclair Community Events Director Monte Thayer said in 1923, Frank Kistler established the Producers and Refiners Corporation in the area. One year later, the town of Parco was founded.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111157/0522_Sinclair-100th_1.mp3Parco’s residential and public buildings were constructed in a Spanish Colonial style. Perhaps the town’s most iconic building, the Parco Inn, was built in 1925. Thayer said at the time of its opening, the hotel offered the latest amenities.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111200/0522_Sinclair-100th_2.mp3In 1942, the Parco refinery was purchased by the Sinclair Refining Company. Shortly thereafter, the name of the town was changed to Sinclair.
Thayer said the refinery has played a large role in the development of the town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111202/0522_Sinclair-100th_3.mp3This year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of Parco. Thayer said the town is having a huge celebration to mark its centennial on August 17th.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111205/0522_Sinclair-100th_4.mp3Thayer said famous painter and Sinclair native Joel Johnson will be the featured artist at an art show being held during the centennial event.
Thayer said a fireworks display will mark the end of festivities. The community events director invited everyone to attend the centennial event.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/22111208/0522_Sinclair-100th_5.mp3The 100th Sinclair anniversary will be on Saturday, August 17th. Bigfoot99 will have more information about the event as the centennial draws closer.
The post 100 Years Of Sinclair, Wyoming To Be Celebrated This Summer first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 21, 2024 |
Photo – Vandalism in Medicine Bow – Courtesy Justin George
The Medicine Bow town council agrees to sell three patrol vehicles and rifles from its defunct marshal’s department to the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office. In exchange, the county will provide the town with police patrols.
In February, citing budget deficiencies, the Medicine Bow town council chose to close its marshal’s department. The department was created in 2019 using $1 million of impact assistance funding. With roughly $200,000 left in its account, the town decided to shutter the marshal’s office and use the remaining money for infrastructure projects.
The town is now sitting on several pieces of unneeded equipment, such as patrol vehicles, weapons, and ammunition. Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken has expressed interest in purchasing some of the items.
During the May 13th town council meeting, Medicine Bow Mayor Justin George said he offered to sell the sheriff three patrol vehicles and three rifles for $100,000.
Mayor George said he asked the county to pay for half of the sale in cash and the other half with a memorandum of understanding to have the sheriff’s department patrol the town for 50 hours a month for one year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/21121512/0521_Med-Bow-Sale-1.mp3Both, the towns of Hanna and Riverside, have MOUs requiring sheriff’s deputies to patrol for a set amount of time each month. Mayor George said the county is charging roughly $10,000 for every hour the sheriff spends in town.
At the May 13th Medicine Bow town council meeting, Mayor George said the Board of Carbon County Commissioners rejected his offer to sell the three patrol vehicles and three rifles to the sheriff’s department for $100,000. Instead, the county offered $85,000 in cash or a smaller payment with deputy patrol time included.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/21121515/0521_Med-Bow-Sale-2.mp3Mayor George clarified that the MOU stipulates that the sheriff would need to patrol the town for 30 hours a month for one year.
The mayor said if the council accepts the county’s offer, they need to decide whether to take the $85,000 lump sum or the smaller cash payment with the MOU.
Councilman Trevor Strauch suggested the town take the $85,000 in cash. Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer said they should take the smaller payout with the included MOU and use the year of sheriff patrols to determine if they would like to extend the agreement in the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/21121517/0521_Med-Bow-Sale-3.mp3Mayor George questioned if a contract with the sheriff’s office will make the town safer. The mayor referred to a late April incident where a local man vandalized his store, JB’s Stop-N-Shop, as well as Councilwoman Wickizer’s bar, The Old West. The man was arrested by sheriff’s deputies and jailed in Rawlins. However, Mayor George said the man was quickly released by the Carbon County Prosecutor’s Office and transported back to Medicine Bow.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/21121519/0521_Med-Bow-Sale-4.mp3Councilwoman Wickizer said the sale of the marshal’s department equipment will allow them to test out an MOU without having to pay anything out of the town’s budget. Councilman Strauch said if the agreement isn’t effective, the town can simply choose not to renew it next year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/21121522/0521_Med-Bow-Sale-5.mp3The Medicine Bow town council voted to sell three former marshal’s department vehicles and three rifles to the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office for $85,500. Fifty-five thousand dollars will be presented to the town in cash with the remaining $30,000 being used to pay the sheriff to patrol Medicine Bow for 30 hours a month for one year.
The post Medicine Bow Sells Marshal’s Vehicles To Sheriff’s Office first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 21, 2024 |
Photo – A firearm in chains – Courtesy Monder Law
U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) joined U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and other colleagues in introducing new legislation known as Repealing Illegal Freedom and Liberty Excises Act. Known as the Rifle Act, it would remove a burdensome tax imposed by the Biden Administration on firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act.
Senator Barrasso said in a statement, ““The last thing responsible gun owners need is more burdensome Washington taxes and restrictions. Our legislation keeps unnecessary red-tape out of Wyoming and protects Second Amendment rights across the country.”
Senator Lummis added, “Law-abiding gun owners in Wyoming should not be forced to pay excessive taxes for exercising their Second Amendment rights. Sen. Lummis continued, “While President Biden and Senate Democrats continue to wrongfully target responsible gun owners, I will continue fighting to preserve the people of Wyoming’s right to keep and bear arms.”
The language of the legislation would repeal, if passed and signed into law, certain taxes relating to firearms, including the Firearm Transfer Tax.
The legislation is endorsed by the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.
The post Wyoming’s Senators Join Others Against Gun Tax first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 21, 2024 |
Photo – Carbon County Courthouse – Bigfoot99 file photo
Fifth graders from around the county will participate in a judicial learning day sponsored by the Carbon County Bar Association.
The students will attempt to resolve “The Case of the Stolen Lunch.”
Starting at 9:00 this morning, over 120 of the county’s 5th graders will take part in a mock trial at the Carbon County Courthouse and tour the local jail.
Bigfoot99 spoke to Carbon County District Court Staff Attorney Gwendolyn Wade about the event. Wade, who asked that her voice not be used on air, said half of the students will participate in the mock trial at the courthouse while the other half will visit the Carbon County Jail. At noon, the two teams will swap places.
The mock trial is titled, “The Case of the Stolen Lunch.” Wade said the kids were given the script roughly a week and a half ago. The students chose from among themselves who will play the victim, defense attorney, witnesses, and members of the jury.
While the first group of students is participating in the mock trial, the second group will be touring the Carbon County Detention Center.
Wade said the kids won’t get to meet any prisoners, however. Instead, they’ll get to see where the guards work when they aren’t watching the inmates.
At noon, the two teams will switch, with the first group going to the jail and the second group performing the same mock trial.
Wade said this year’s 5th Grade Judicial Learning Day is the first one to include students from across the county. In the past, the event was only open to students from Rawlins. Wade said this year’s participating class consists of kids from Rawlins, Saratoga, and Baggs.
Registration for this morning’s event has closed. Wade said students who want to watch the mock trial are welcome to come to the Carbon County Courthouse, located at 415 West Pine Street in Rawlins. However, only kids pre-registered for the event will be permitted to tour the jail.
Wade said the Carbon County Bar Association holds the 5th Grade Judicial Learning Day to ensure the students receive a civics lesson at an early age.
Today’s 5th Grade Judicial Learning Day begins at 9:00am. The two teams of students will take turns touring the Carbon County Jail and taking part in a mock trial in the Carbon County Courthouse.
For more information about the Carbon County Bar Association’s 5th Grade Judicial Learning Day, call Carbon County District Court Staff Attorney Gwendolyn Wade at 328-2685.
The post Judicial Learning Day Gives 5th Graders A Lesson In Civics first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 21, 2024 |
Photo – City of Rawlins logo – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The City of Rawlins will be holding two special meetings in the next few weeks.
On Wednesday, May 22nd, at 7:30 pm the governing body will hold a special meeting for the First Reading of the Budget. On Thursday, June 13th, at 6:00 pm they will be having a special meeting for the Third and Final Reading of the Budget.
Both readings will be held at City Hall at 521 W. Cedar and broadcast on YouTube. They will still hold the regular meetings on the first and third Tuesdays of the month.
The agendas will be posted at www.rawlinswy.gov/boarddocs prior to the meeting.
The post City Of Rawlins To Hold Two Special Budget Meetings This Month first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 21, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins Fire Department logo – Courtesy RFD
The Rawlins Fire Department is hosting its 4th Annual 5K Obstacle Race and Community Participation Event. This Saturday, May 25th, racers will line up outside of Rawlins Fire Station Number Two to take part in a 3.18-mile fun run and obstacle course. Rawlins Fire Captain Hans Pedersen said the race consists of four obstacle stations, all of which are optional.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/21121459/0521_Fire-Race-1.mp3The race begins at 9:00am. Fire Captain Pedersen said participants will travel west from Fire Station Two along East State Street, go under the train tracks, and head towards Depot Park on Front Street. Pederson explained the rest of the circular route. Once racers return to the fire station, they may take part in a variety of firefighter challenges.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/21121503/0521_Fire-Race-2.mp3Fire Captain Pedersen said money raised during the event is used to help needy members of the community. The fire captain explained that despite less funding, more people require assistance than ever.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/21121506/0521_Fire-Race-3.mp3Pedersen said the 5K race also serves to recruit more volunteer fire fighters. Saturday’s event will allow people to experience a little of what being a fire fighter is like.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/21121509/0521_Fire-Race-4.mp3During the race, the entire community is invited to a free breakfast of pancakes and sausage courtesy of Rawlins Fire Department volunteers.
The Rawlins Fire Department’s Fourth Annual 5K Fun Run Obstacle Course and Community Breakfast is this Saturday, May 25th, at Fire Station Number Two, located at 501 East State St in Rawlins.
Registration is $20 pre-event or $30 the day of the race. Check-in opens at 8:30am and the race begins at 9:00am.
The free community breakfast starts at 8:30am and ends at 10:00am.
For questions or to pre-register for the event, call the Rawlins Fire Department at 307-328-4596.
The post RFD Hosts 5K Fun Run and Obstacle Course first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 20, 2024 |
Photo – Arthur Nelson mug shot – Bigfoot99 file photo
The wrong-way driver accused of killing five college students on Interstate 80 near Rawlins nearly 18 months ago has agreed to a plea deal.
On May 10th, 59-year-old Arthur Andrew Nelson, of Limestone, Tennessee, signed a Notice of Intent to Change Plea with the Carbon County Prosecutor’s Office.
Nelson has agreed to plead guilty or no contest to five counts of aggravated homicide by vehicle and a single count of felony driving while under the influence of a controlled substance resulting in serious bodily injury.
On the evening of January 22, 2023, Nelson was allegedly high on meth while driving the wrong way on Interstate 80. Nelson, behind the wheel of his Dodge Ram 3500 pickup truck, was traveling east in the westbound lane when a semi-truck, attempting to avoid Nelson’s vehicle, veered into the eastbound lanes and collided, head-on, with a Ford F150 carrying five students from Sherwood, Arkansas.
Both the semi-truck and Ford F150 were almost immediately engulfed in flames. All five young people were pronounced dead at the scene.
The female drive of the semi-truck was severely burned in the incident.
The fatal crash victims are Suzy Prime, Andrea Prime, Ava Luplow, Salomon Correa, and Magdalene “Maggie” Franco. Suzy, 18, and Andrea Prime, 23, were sisters.
The five young people were heading back to Arkansas after spending a week touring the Jackson Hole Bible College.
The driver of the semi-truck has not been publicly identified and her condition is unknown. Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper Corey McCallister, who responded to the crash scene, said in a written affidavit, “I observed the majority of her face and head to be burned.”
In August of 2023, Nelson was declared incompetent to stand trial and committed to the Wyoming State Hospital in Evanston until he could be made well enough to face charges.
On May 10th, Carbon County Prosecutor Sarah Chavez Harkins sent a plea offer to Nelson’s attorney, Senior Assistant Public Defender Patty Bennett. Harkins offered to cap each of the five aggravated homicide by vehicle charges to between 15 and 20 years. Each count will run consecutively, meaning that Nelson faces 75 to 100 years in prison.
Additionally, the county prosecutor presented Nelson with a deal on the charge of driving while under the influence of a controlled substance, stemming from the serious injuries sustained by the unnamed semi-truck driver. The Carbon County prosecuting attorney offered to cap the time Nelson will serve to between eight and ten years. The added time will run concurrently, or at the same time, as the five vehicular homicide counts.
The prosecutor gave Nelson and his attorney until the following Monday, May 13th to sign the plea agreement.
Court documents show that Nelson signed the agreement the same day it was received.
Nelson is due back in Carbon County District Court at 2:30 this afternoon. Honorable Judge Dawnessa Snyder will review the plea agreement and, if everything meets the judge’s approval, Nelson will be sentenced.
The post Man Charged With Five Counts Of Aggravated Vehicle Homicide To Appear In Court first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 20, 2024 |
Photo – A row of officers pay respects to fallen officers – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The Rawlins Police Department held a ceremony to honor fallen peace officers last Thursday.
President John F. Kennedy, with approval from the 87th Congress, designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day in 1961. The week in which the date falls is considered National Police Week.
Last Thursday, on May 16th, the Rawlins Police Department, in conjunction with the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office, Wyoming Highway Patrol, and the Wyoming Department of Corrections, held a flag ceremony outside of the Rawlins Police Station.
The event began with a rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner sung by Jessalynn Mikesell. Following the performance, Reverend Bobbi Fitzhugh led the attendees in a prayer for fallen officers.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101240/0520_Police-Week-1.mp3After the prayer, Rawlins Police Chief Ward began reading the names of the 12 Carbon County law enforcement officers who have fallen in the line of duty.
Chief Ward started with deputy sheriff Robert Widdowfield and Union Pacific detective Henry Tip Vincent. Both men were murdered by Big Nose George Parrot and his gang in 1878.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101242/0520_Police-Week-2.mp3Chief Ward mentioned Rawlins Lieutenant Thomas Kling and Officer John Baxter. Both officers were ambushed and killed by a local shop owner on April 20th, 1903.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101245/0520_Police-Week-3.mp3Wyoming State Penitentiary Warden Neicole Molden continued listing the fallen peace officers. Warden Molden read the name of Prison Guard Ed Samuelson, who was shot and killed by an inmate at the Wyoming State Penitentiary on November 1, 1907. The warden also paid tribute to Wyoming Game and Fish Agents Bill Lakanen and Don Simpson. Both men were shot to death on October 31, 1945, while investigating reports of illegal hunting in the Sierra Madre mountain range by a notorious mountain man.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101248/0520_Police-Week-4.mp3Department of Corrections Lieutenant Orville Lee Ventling was stabbed to death by two inmates in the recreation room at the Wyoming State Penitentiary on March 4th, 1975.
Wyoming Highway Patrolman Peter Visser died as a result of the injuries sustained when a drunk driver rear-ended his cruiser on October 12, 1981.
Rawlins Police Lieutenant Delavan Lewis Dixon suffered a fatal heart attack while participating in the FBI Physical Fitness Challenge in Quantico, Virginia on June 4, 1996.
Wyoming Department of Corrections Corporal Wayne Martinez was stabbed to death by three inmates during an escape attempt at the Wyoming State Penitentiary on June 26, 1997.
And Wyoming Highway Patrol K-9 Robbie was stuck and killed by a semi-truck on Interstate 80 while searching for drugs during a traffic stop on October 20, 2014.
After the final name was called, Rawlins Police Chief Ward asked for a moment of silence followed by a flag raising ceremony and the playing of TAPS.
When the song was finished, Chief Ward explained how, when President John F. Kennedy created Peace Officers Memorial Day in 1961, he said police are responsible for upholding the rights of every American.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101250/0520_Police-Week-5.mp3Chief Ward said police officers perform a necessary, but dangerous duty for little compensation. The chief said being a police officer isn’t a career, but a calling. When asked why they wanted to join the police department, Chief Ward said most people responded by saying they want to serve and protect the public.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101252/0520_Police-Week-6.mp3Chief Ward said National Police Week is a time to remember and honor the men and woman who gave their lives to keep the public safe.
The post Fallen Peace Officers Honored At Ceremony first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 20, 2024 |
Photo – Rocky Mountain Power logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
Rocky Mountain Power versus the State of Wyoming.
The Portland, Oregon-based utility claims that the Wyoming Public Service Commission acted in an unconstitutional manner when, in an effort to protect consumers in the Cowboy state, slashed $23.5 million dollars from the power company’s proposed rate hike.
After building a network of wind power installations across Wyoming to deliver electricity to Pacific Coast states, the utility giant sought a pair of rate increases last year on residents here, totaling about $77-million.
Wyoming residents protested the proposed rate hike at a series of public meetings late last year, including at meeting of the PSC in Cheyenne.
In January of this year, the public service commission gave final approval to an increase of $53.9 million.
The Oregon-based company, doing business here as Rocky Mountain Power, says the new rate will cut its revenue. The company’s complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court of Wyoming.
In April, Rocky Mountain Power filed for a 12.3% rate increase that — if approved — would tap Wyoming customers for a one-time $86.4 million, mostly due to higher-than-expected fuel costs in 2023 to pay for the company’s incorrect estimating of its underlying costs. If Wyoming regulators approve the full amount, the company’s typical residential customer will experience a 9.3% increase, or about $12 more to their monthly bill, beginning July 1 and lasting for 12 months, the company said.
In a second-rate hike request filed last month, Rocky Mountain Power seeks permission to cancel a ratepayer credit derived from the then-President Donald Trump-era Tax Cuts and Jobs Act because it is set to expire, resulting in another 4.2% hike, or about $29.9 million.
Wait. It’s not over. The company is also expected to file a third request to increase its general rate for Wyoming customers.
The Wyoming Public Service Commission approved an 8.3% general rate increase for the company last year, and allowed the company to tap ratepayers for a one-time fuel cost adjustment.
The utility company’s lawsuit comes as it wraps up a series of public workshops around Wyoming. One was held in Rawlins last week. Another is scheduled for Cody on May 28.
On its web site, Rocky Mountain Power reports that its average electric rate is more than 10 percent lower than the average price in Wyoming and 34 percent lower than the national average.
In its lawsuit, PaciCorp claims Wyoming officials are “engaging in clear economic protectionism,” claiming that the state’s position is costing the company $23-million.
The Wyoming Public Service Commission, meanwhile, claims that the electric company is forcing Wyoming customers to subsidize out-of-state users in left-leaning states, who are forcing utilities to secure wind and solar power outside their region while coal companies here suffer.
Next stop: Federal court.
The post Rocky Mountain Power Sues State Of Wyoming first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 20, 2024 |
Photo – Rubber Check Race in Kimball County Nebraska – Facebook
Encampment search and rescue volunteers are hosting an unusual fundraising race to purchase emergency equipment and training.
On Saturday, June 29th, Carbon County Search and Rescue volunteers are holding a horse, ATV, and wheelbarrow relay race at the Lions Club Arena in Encampment. The event is called the Carbon County Rubber Check Race.
Search and Rescue volunteer Sam Buffington said a rubber check race consists of two teams of four racing around a track. Each team member must pass a baton to the next racer. The first two members of each team are on horseback, the second racers ride ATVs, and the final members will push the ATV riders across the finish line in wheelbarrows. Buffington said skilled teams can complete the entire relay in less than two minutes.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101227/0516_Rubber-Check-Race-1.mp3Buffington said all ticket sales will be donated to Carbon County Search and Rescue. As a search and rescue volunteer, Buffington said many of the members use their own equipment when performing search and rescue operations.
The Carbon County Rubber Check Race will help purchase needed supplies and training classes for the county’s search and rescue team.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101231/0516_Rubber-Check-Race-2.mp3Buffington said she fell in love with rubber check racing while living in Cheyenne. The search and rescue volunteer said she thinks Carbon County residents will also enjoy the wacky event.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101234/0516_Rubber-Check-Race-3.mp3Buffington said she is hoping to have at least eight teams participate in next month’s rubber check races. Putting on a large event isn’t cheap, though. Buffington said she is looking for sponsors to help pay for prize money. The search and rescue volunteer said sponsorship levels are broken up into three tiers depending on the donation amount: bronze, silver, and gold.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101237/0516_Rubber-Check-Race-4.mp3Buffington said she is still accepting event sponsors.
The first ever Carbon County Rubber Check Race is Saturday, June 29th, at the Lions Club Area in Encampment.
The event starts at 5:00pm. Tickets are $15 per person. Kids 12 and under are free. All proceeds from ticket sales will go to Carbon County Search and Rescue.
The entry fee is $100 per team. Registration ends on June 28th at 6:00pm.
Buffington is seeking volunteers to help with next month’s event.
For more information about the Carbon County Rubber Check Race, call Sam Buffington at 640-8172 or visit the Carbon County Rubber Check Race Facebook page.
The post Encampment Search And Rescue Brings New Type Of Race To Valley first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 20, 2024 |
Photo – Medicine Bow Senior Center – Courtesy Carbon County Senior Services
Medicine Bow Clinic Nurse Julie Freeman is offering to help veterans receive their benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Freeman is a disabled veteran herself, having served as a military nurse. After leaving the service, Freeman began working as a nurse for the Department of Veterans Affairs, or VA, in Texas. While there, Freeman said she was dissatisfied by the way veterans were treated.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101255/0520_VA-Help-1.mp3Freeman said while working for the VA, she was told to place veterans with a lower diagnosis, such as PTSD, on the bottom of the list to receive care, while decorated veterans, such as those with a purple heart, were given priority. Freeman said it didn’t matter what kind of care the veteran needed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101257/0520_VA-Help-2.mp3Freeman said as the lone veteran at the Texas VA clinic, she was the only person who understood the care veterans required. The nurse said she disobeyed the VA’s order to prioritize patients by their military status. Freeman said it wasn’t long before the patients found out what she was doing.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101300/0520_VA-Help-3.mp3Freeman said when the VA found out that she was ranking patients based on the care they needed and not their military status, she was fired for fraternization, or being too friendly with the patients.
Her time working for the Texas VA gave Freeman unique insight into the way the organization works. Freeman said she has knowledge of all the programs the Department of Veteran Affairs has available.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101303/0520_VA-Help-4.mp3Freeman said all low income veterans may qualify for medical care with no copay. Many veterans are unaware of the VA-recognized deductions that could get them free healthcare, said Freeman.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101307/0520_VA-Help-5.mp3Because of the remote nature of Carbon County, Freeman said local veterans do not need to go to Cheyenne to receive medical care. She said veterans can choose any nearby medical establishment for treatment.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101309/0520_VA-Help-6.mp3Freeman said veterans may choose to see any specialist as well.
Starting today, Freeman is offering to help veterans navigate the VA phone system and receive the health care they are entitled to. Freeman encouraged veterans who have been denied benefits in the past to see her.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20101312/0520_VA-Help-7.mp3Freeman will meet with veterans at the Hanna Senior Center, located at 1007 Trona Court, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm starting today, and on the first and second Monday of each month.
On the third and fourth Monday of every month, Freeman will be at the Medicine Bow Senior Center, located at 520 Utah Street, also from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Veterans should bring their medical and military records with them. No appointment is necessary.
The post Local RN Offers Medical Benefits Help To Veterans first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 17, 2024 |
Photo – Sign in Hanna – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Town of Hanna went through an abrupt change of leadership this week.
Mayor John Ostling resigned abruptly from the Hanna Town Council. Councilman Jayson Nordquist was voted to serve as mayor pro-tem, leaving the community short one council member.
Ostling was not present at Wednesday night’s Hanna town council regular session. Roughly 20 minutes into the meeting, Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales announced that Ostling, a first-term mayor had resigned. In a brief letter announcing his decision, Ostling cited health concerns as his reason for stepping away from the job.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110922/0517_Hanna-Mayor-Resigns-1.mp3The council voted to approve Ostling’s departure from the elected position.
Mayor Pro-Tem Nordquist asked for a nominee to take the mayor’s seat. Councilman Roger Hawks motioned for Nordquist to act as mayor until the end of the year, when a new mayor will be elected.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110925/0517_Hanna-Mayor-Resigns-2.mp3Councilman Sam Sikes seconded the motion, which then carried.
With the vote, Nordquist officially became the mayor of Hanna. As mayor, Nordquist must vacate his seat on the council. Clerk Gonzales instructed anyone interested in serving the remainder of Nordquist’s term to submit letters of interest before the next town council meeting. The town clerk said a new council member will be chosen at that time.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110927/0517_Hanna-Mayor-Resigns-3.mp3Ostling’s resignation means that a new mayor must be elected this November. Along with the mayor, the town has two open council seats available. Candidate filing began yesterday.
Clerk Gonzales told anyone interested in running for one of the three open positions to submit their candidate application before 5:00 pm on May 31st.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110929/0517_Hanna-Mayor-Resigns-4.mp3Clerk Gonzales asked that all letters of interest for Mayor Nordquist’s former council seat be submitted to town hall before Friday, June 7th.
A new Hanna town council member will be appointed during the following meeting on Tuesday, June 11th.
The post Mayor of Hanna Resigns Abruptly first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 17, 2024 |
Photo – Aircraft dumps fire retardant on a fire – Bigfoot99 file photo
During a senate hearing Thursday for the U.S. Forest Service’s 2025 budget, Wyoming Senator John Barrasso told the agency’s chief, Randy Moore, that he’s not doing enough in Wyoming or anywhere in the West to address the wildfire crisis.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110941/0517_Sen-Barrasso-1.mp3Senator Barrasso is the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. In addition to the Forest Service chief, also appearing before the committee was Mark Lichenstein, the agency’s Director of Strategic Planning.
Senator Barrasso said he is pleased with some of the agency’s budget requests, including increased pay for wildland firefighters.
Senator Barrasso was critical of the agency’s handling of its money. Since 2021, Congress has granted Forest Service with $40 billion dollars in additional monies over its regular budget. Despite the additional funding, the USFS has not treated more acres to reduce vulnerability to forest fires. Nor has it sold more timber during prescribed sales.
Senator Barrasso asked the two USFS heads where have all the U.S. tax dollars gone under their leadership?
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110943/0517_Sen-Barrasso-2.mp3Wyoming’s Senior Senator said the Forest Service must change course and start managing forests in a serious and credible way. The senator added that the private forest products sector is willing to help get the work done.
The Forest Service appeared before the senate committee in an attempt to secure a 6.5 percent increase in funding. Democrat Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia, the chairman of the committee, noted that already this year U.S. Forests have been burning although still covered in snow. Manchin pointed to the 1-million acres burned in Texas this year, killing two people and destroying 130 homes.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110945/0517_Sen-Manchin-1.mp3Senator Manchin noted that Congress has invested heavily in hazardous fuels reduction, noting that two bills—the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the inflation Reduction Act, the Forest Service is earmarked for $12 billion in addition to the agency’s annual appropriations.
The post Senator Barrasso Expresses Dissatisfaction With USFS first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 17, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins Wyoming – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The City of Rawlins announced Thursday afternoon no irrigation or other water restrictions are in place at this time.
In a news release, the city announced that water is expected this spring and through early summer to allow for sod or seed, plentiful watering for trees and shrubs, and other water activities.
The release from city officials notes that potential restrictions will be reevaluated each week as conditions may change throughout the summer months. Adjustments to the plan will be made according to changing conditions.
As of now, Rawlins is enjoying increased flows from the Sage Creek pipeline. A new PVC pipeline was installed in 2022, replacing the old wood stave line from the early 20th century.
As of yesterday, the city’s web site shows that the high pressure tanks are 100% full while the low pressure tanks for the city are at 79%.
The news release from the city also included useful information from the University of Wyoming Extension Office for watering your lawn.
According to the information, watering of lawns should occur in two to three irrigations per week. Enough water should be provided so that the water can soak into the ground. Shallow, frequent irrigations will encourage shallow root growth and weaken lawn health.
The Extension Office has many resources to offer scientific advice on lawn health, landscape design, and more.
But for now, in the middle of May, Rawlins is starting to green up as we head into the final weeks of spring.
The post Rawlins Announces There Are No Water Restrictions first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 17, 2024 |
Photo – Training announcement – Courtesy St Christopher’s Highway
Saint Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County is hosting a class on how to recognize the signs of a social problem all around us in these crazy times we are living in — human trafficking.
Saint Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County is a non-profit organization focused on helping needy travelers. Members of Saint Christopher’s Highway have been holding a series of public forums to educate residents about important topics. Last month, Children’s Advocacy Project Executive Director Stacy Nelson spoke at the Saint Christopher’s Highway meeting about children who have been victims or witnesses of crime.
Next Thursday, May 23rd, Saint Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County will host Regional Nurse Supervisor and Rawlins city council member, Jacquelin Wells at Saint Thomas Episcopal Church in Rawlins.
Saint Christopher’s Highway Board President Reverend Bobbie Fitzhugh said Wells will talk about human trafficking.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110931/0517_Human-Trafficing-1.mp3Human traffickers often rely on highways to facilitate their movement. Reverend Fitzhugh said it’s reasonable to assume trafficking victims are transported through Carbon County using Interstate 80.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110933/0517_Human-Trafficing-2.mp3Reverend Fitzhugh said Nurse Wells will explain what human trafficking is and teach the public how to recognize the signs of a trafficking victim.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110936/0517_Human-Trafficing-3.mp3Saint Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County’s goal is to help people get where they need to be. Reverend Fitzhugh said thankfully, her organization hasn’t knowingly encountered a human trafficking victim. The reverend said St. Christopher’s Highway volunteers are mostly confronted with people fleeing abusive relationships.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/17110939/0517_Human-Trafficing-4.mp3The organization will host a public forum next week on the social and criminal issues surrounding human trafficking.
The forum will feature Jacquelin Wells, Regional Nurse Supervisor for Wyoming Public Health, and will take place from noon to 1:00 pm next Thursday, May 23rd, in the lower level of Saint Thomas Episcopal Church, located at 321 6th Street in Rawlins. A free lunch will be provided.
Reverend Fitzhugh invited everyone to attend the public forum, especially local motel and hotel owners.
The post Local Organization Hosts Class To Recognize Human Trafficking first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 16, 2024 |
Photo – Section of pipe to replace portion of failing water line – Courtesy City of Rawlins
Responding to repeated breaks in the high-pressure line that carries drinking water in Rawlins from the treatment plant to the water tanks, city crews replaced 30 feet of failing water pipe on the west side of the city on Tuesday. Until the entire line is replaced, additional ruptures aren’t out of the question, said the city’s public works director.
On Friday, May 10th, the City of Rawlins announced that three holes were found in the high-pressure line that carries water from the city’s treatment plant to storage tanks above the El Rancho-Hospital and Hollow-Scarlet Drive neighborhoods.
The first water main puncture was reported on the evening of May 5th. Rawlins Public Works Director Cody Dill and his team dug down to the pipe and installed a large clamp over the hole. The next morning, Dill found a second puncture which was patched in the same manner.
Later in the week, a third hole was discovered on the same section line. Dill said the poor condition of the steel pipe necessitated replacing a 30-foot portion of the line with PVC.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094426/0516_Rawlins-Pipe-1.mp3Dill said the new line was reconnected on Monday evening. The public works director said his team of skilled workers had the pipe replaced in a single day. Dill said the replacement PVC pipe should last indefinitely.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094429/0516_Rawlins-Pipe-2.mp3During a recent city-wide rate study, City Manager Tom Sarvey said the Rawlins water system requires approximately $28 million of emergency repair projects, referred to as Priority One. A media release issued by the city on Friday states, “The high-pressure transmission line has been identified as a priority repair for many years due to its fragile condition. This project is on the list as Priority 1, with ideal completion within the next five years.”
Public Works Director Dill said he hopes that the dire state of the high-pressure transmission line moves it up the priority list. Until the entire three miles of pipe is replaced, future ruptures can’t be ruled out.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094432/0516_Rawlins-Pipe-3.mp3It’s a race against time. The water transmission line may suffer a catastrophic failure if it isn’t replaced in time. Residents living on the west side of the city would have to rely entirely on water stored in the Painted Hills and hospital tanks until the line is repaired.
Dill said in the event of a catastrophic water main failure, the tanks could provide enough clean drinking water for a week or two with proper rationing. The public works director said his crew should be able to replace the entire line in that amount of time.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094436/0516_Rawlins-Pipe-4.mp3Dill said he will not use steel pipe again when the time comes to replace the water transmission line. The public works director said using PVC, or other types of synthetic pipes, will make the line last much longer.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094438/0516_Rawlins-Pipe-5.mp3Bigfoot99 asked Dill if Rawlins residents can look forward to more water main breaks in the future. The public works director said he hopes not. However, if a break should occur, Dill said his crews are capable of quickly performing the necessary repairs. The city needs to focus on replacing the failing water lines as fast as possible, said Dill.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094441/0516_Rawlins-Pipe-6.mp3Sticking to the topic of water, Dill encouraged residents to use as much water as they can during the wet spring season. The public works director said future water restrictions haven’t been ruled out.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094444/0516_Rawlins-Pipe-7.mp3For more information about water restrictions or the state of the city’s water system, call Rawlins Community Relations Manager Mira Miller at 328-4500 extension 1022. In a news release Tuesday, Miller said the goal is to replace the three-mile line in the next two years.
The post More Water Breaks In Rawlins Will Not Come As A Surprise first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 16, 2024 |
Photo – Image of part of a flag ceremony – Bigfoot99 file photo
Today in Rawlins, a flag ceremony will be held outside the police department in commemoration of National Police Week, a time set aside for officers who have been killed in the line of duty. Rawlins Chief Mike Ward made the announcement at last week’s City Council Meeting.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094418/0516_Polce-Week-1.mp3The Rawlins Police Department will hold a flag ceremony and open house this afternoon starting at 2:30pm in front of the station located at 215 5th Street.
Yesterday in Washington, D.C., Senator John Barrasso honored fallen Sheridan Police officer, Sergeant Nevada Krinkee, who was gunned down while serving a trespass warrant in the northern Wyoming town on February 13 of this year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094423/0516_Polce-Week-2.mp3On that day, a Sheridan police car parked on the lawn in front of the town’s police department was covered in flowers, American flags, mementoes, and other tokens of affection for the fallen officer.
More than four-thousand people lined the main street of Sheridan, braving the cold weather, to pay tribute to the fallen officer as his funeral procession passed through the winding main street of the town.
The cold-blooded murder of Krinkee led to a 30-hour standoff with the heavily armed suspect, who had barricaded himself in another house until police shot and killed the vagrant when he tried to escape.
Senator Barrasso thanked police officers, calling them “heroes” who are among us every day.
Again, the ceremony for fallen officers in Rawlins today begins at 2:30 and will include a tour of the police station at 215 5th Street.
The post Fallen Officer Ceremony This Afternoon At RPD first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 16, 2024 |
Photo – Lightning bolt – Bigfoot99 file photo
Rocky Mountain Power will come back before state regulators this year seeking another 16.5 percent rate increase on its 145,000 customers in Wyoming.
Those same customers saw their electric bills go up 8.3% in January. RMP originally sought a 21% increase, but state regulators said held the line.
Company officials blame inflation for coming back for more.
RMP is holding a series of workshops this month. One was held in Rawlins last night. Other meetings this month are scheduled for Riverton tonight, Rock Springs on Friday night and Cody on May 28.
The 8.3% increase which went into effect at the beginning of 2024, is considered a general rate case. The hike request filed in April is a standard energy cost adjustment that RMP does annually.
Essentially, RMP is looking to raise monthly power bills across the state by 12.3%, or about $86.4 million for residential, commercial and industrial customers.
If the rate goes into effect as planned, residential customers will see their monthly bills rise 9.3% on average, or about $12 per month.
The increase is subject to review and adjustment in Cheyenne by the Wyoming Public Service Commission.
The post Rocky Mountain Power Files For Another Rate Increase first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 16, 2024 |
Photo – HEM Senior Cruise announcement – Courtesy Hanna Fire Dept.
County emergency agencies, including the Hanna Fire Department, will honor local graduates with a parade through town.
For the past five years, the Hanna Fire Department has arranged a senior cruise for Hanna-Elk Mountain-Medicine Bow graduates. Volunteer firefighters Kyle Warren and Shana Angel Romero are putting together this year’s event.
Warren said after COVID canceled in-person graduations, the Hanna Fire Department created the senior cruise as a way to recognize the students’ accomplishments.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094447/0516_Senior-Cruise-1.mp3All the graduating seniors from H-E-M High School are invited to meet at the Hanna Fire Station and decorate their vehicles. Warren said afterwards, multiple emergency entities will lead the procession of graduating seniors through town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094451/0516_Senior-Cruise-2.mp3After the cruise, Hanna Fire Department volunteers will have a barbeque for the seniors. Romero said the students will get free hotdogs and hamburgers as well as a small gift bag.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094454/0516_Senior-Cruise-3.mp3The 2024 H-E-M High School graduating class consists of ten seniors. Romero said in the last four years, every graduating student has participated in the parade. Parents and other residents are welcome to participate as well. Warren said the senior cruise is typically well attended.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094457/0516_Senior-Cruise-4.mp3Warren said residents can show their support for the graduating class without being in the parade. The volunteer firefighter said everyone is welcome to be a part of the senior cruise.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094500/0516_Senior-Cruise-5.mp3The Hanna volunteer firefighters said the senior cruise is also open to graduating homeschoolers.
Warren said the exact parade route hasn’t been finalized yet. However, the cruise will pass the Hanna Recreation Center and then head back onto Adams Street to drive by the HEM High School, said Warren.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/16094504/0516_Senior-Cruise-6.mp3The fifth annual Hanna Senior Cruise is next Wednesday, May 22nd. Participants are asked to gather at the Hanna Fire Station, located at 111 2nd Street. Lineup is at 6:00pm. The parade begins at 6:30pm.
The post HEM Graduates To Be Honored With Parade first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 15, 2024 |
Photo – Image of gender identities – Courtesy Google images
The State of Wyoming has joined a coalition of states and private parties in a lawsuit opposing President Biden’s new rules that reinterpret Title IX, which is a 1972 law designed to create educational and athletic opportunities, particularly for female students.
President Joe Biden, Attorney General Merrick Garland and Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona are named as plaintiffs in the lawsuit filed by Kansas, Alaska, Utah and Wyoming.
The states charge that the defendants seek “to politicize our country’s educational system to conform to the radical ideological views of the Biden administration and its allies.” The lawsuit argues the new rules are unlawful and contrary to the core principles of Title IX, compromising safety and privacy, and ultimately depriving female athletes of opportunities.
In a statement, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon said, “This is yet another instance of federal overreach, seeking to impose a new interpretation on a longstanding law.”
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder applauded the lawsuit, stating, “in Wyoming, we protect our girls. We will never allow outrageous political agendas to get in the way of that. Not in bathrooms, not in education, not in sports. Period.”
Biden’s new Title IX rule eliminates privacy protections for students, replaces “sex” with “gender identity” and broadens the definition of what constitutes “discrimination on the basis of sex”, which directly contradicts the very purpose of Title IX. The lawsuit further alleges the rule violates the First Amendment rights of educators, school employees and fellow students, as well as private organizations, who hold religious beliefs that would prevent them from complying with the rule. The Biden Administration’s rewrite of Title IX also raises due processes concerns to sexual harassment accusations on college campuses.
The states are suing to protect their continued receipt of federal education funds based on what the lawsuit describes as “biological reality,” as opposed to Biden’s “sleight of hand,” replacing the word “sex” with the undefined concept of “gender identity.”
The states will argue in court that the new regulations are contrary to Title IX’s text and history. They prohibit schools from maintaining sex-separate programs, restrooms and locker rooms for males and females.
The lawsuit also argues that the Biden rule opens the door for biological males to compete on female only sports teams “by prohibiting schools from making decisions based on actual physiological differences in athletic ability. And they remove dignity and privacy protections.”
The states point out the text of Title IX never refers to “gender identity,” but only to sex. The lawsuit points out that legislative attempts to change the law to include protections for “gender identity” have failed.
The lawsuit, nine separate counts, notes that “since the dawn of history, it has been widely recognized that there are two sexes, male and female, which in nearly all cases, can be determined at birth.”
The Biden Administration ignores this fundamental reality, “codifying new theories of gender identity.”
The schools contend that this radical new thinking would require large expenditures of money “to establish new bathrooms, locker rooms and other facilities for individuals who do not identify as either male or female.”
The states argue that the Biden administration’s “interpretation” of Title IX is convoluted and implausible.
The plaintiffs are seeking a declaratory judgement that the final rule is unlawful, and the states are not bound to it.
In the lawsuit, the states argue that the Biden Administration’s rewrite of the 50-year-old rule transforms schools “into ideological centers where only the Defendants’ views are allowed to be heard. Plaintiffs sue to prevent this from becoming reality.”
The multi-state complaint is signed by the Attorney General of Kansas, Kris Kobach.
The post Wyoming Joins Multi-State Lawsuit Against New Interpretation Of Title IX first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 15, 2024 |
Photo – MHCC – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Memorial Hospital of Carbon County Board of Trustees is seeking to split the cost of building maintenance and ambulance service with Carbon County officials.
At the May 7th County Commissioners meeting, the hospital’s Board of Trustees President Rod Waeckerlin asked the commissioners to contribute more money to the funding of the hospital. Waeckerlin said additional funding is needed to keep the facility running.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094745/0515_MHCC-1.mp3Built in 1972, Waeckerlin said the 52-year-old building is showing its age. The MHCC board president said the facility costs over a million dollars a year to keep operational.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094748/0515_MHCC-2.mp3Waeckerlin said health care profits across the country are shrinking. The MHCC board president asked the board to consider splitting the cost of building maintenance with the hospital.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094752/0515_MHCC-3.mp3Waeckerlin also told the board the ambulance service costs at Memorial Hospital of Carbon County have grown exponentially in recent years.
MHCC Emergency Department Manager Dan Starr said the hospital’s ambulance service extends far beyond the Rawlins city limit.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094755/0515_MHCC-4.mp3Because the ambulance services operated in the surrounding area are short staffed, Starr said MHCC has had to hire expensive traveling physicians, or travelers, to ensure continued ambulance coverage.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094758/0515_MHCC-5.mp3Starr said MHCC has been transporting more patients to Colorado hospitals. The emergency department manager said traveling across the border costs more money in both fuel and wages.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094801/0515_MHCC-6.mp3MHCC Board President Waeckerlin said unpaid hospital bills have increased $9-million in the past year–from $13 million to over $22 million.
Waeckerlin said almost half of the ambulance-related debt is collected from self-pay patients. Even though collecting payment from out-of-state patients is difficult, Waeckerlin said the hospital must still provide emergency medical service.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094804/0515_MHCC-7.mp3No decision was reached at the meeting. The county commissioners took the hospital’s request under advisement, saying they will consider splitting the cost of building maintenance and ambulance service during upcoming budget meetings.
The post MHCC Ask Commissioners To Split Cost Of Building Maintenance first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 15, 2024 |
Photo – Town of Medicine Bow welcome sign – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Medicine Bow town council is once again operating with a full roster.
During Monday night’s town council meeting, Medicine Bow Rural Health Care District member Larry Lee Cook was chosen to serve on the governing body. Cook takes the seat briefly occupied by Jerry Wohl.
In March, Wohl was chosen to fill Sharon Kahl’s vacant seat. After serving for less than a month and attending only one meeting, Wohl abruptly resigned from council, citing health concerns.
At Monday’s Medicine Bow town council meeting, Mayor Justin George said he received two letters of interest for the open council position. The first letter was from Virginian Hotel head chef Lucia Villarreal, better known as Lu. In her letter, Villarreal stated that she is a hard worker.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094734/0515_Med-Bow-Council-1.mp3Mayor George read the second letter of interest. In his letter, Medicine Bow Rural Health Care District member Cook wrote that his decades of management experience will make him a good addition to the town council.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094737/0515_Med-Bow-Council-2.mp3Mayor George called for a motion to select one of the applications to fill the open council seat. Councilwoman Crystal Mayfield moved to appoint Cook to the board. Councilman Trevor Strauch made the second and the motion carried.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094740/0515_Med-Bow-Council-3.mp3Cook was out of town during Monday’s town council meeting and unable to be sworn in. However, Mayor George said Cook must resign from the Medicine Bow Rural Health Care District before he can serve on the council.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094742/0515_Med-Bow-Council-4.mp3Assuming he steps down from the Medicine Bow Rural Health Care District, Lee Cook will take his seat on the Medicine Bow town council during the next meeting on June 10th.
The post Medicine Bow Town Council Will Be Operating With A Full Roster first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 15, 2024 |
Photo – City of Rawlins logo – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The Rawlins governing body is looking for ways to make it easier for the state to fund WYDOT projects in the city.
In 1974, the City of Rawlins and the Board of Carbon County Commissioners voted to create an Urban Systems Advisory Committee. The 15-person committee suggests transportation improvement projects to the Wyoming Department of Transportation, or WYDOT.
During the May 7th Rawlins city council meeting, City Attorney Pinita Maberry-Nave said in 1981, Rawlins became one of 16 Wyoming municipalities with populations over 5,000 enrolled in the WYDOT Urban Systems Advisory Committee program. Every year, WYDOT gives the city $155,000 to use on transportation related improvement projects. While $155,000 isn’t enough to pay for an entire project, Attorney Maberry-Nave said cities may save the yearly payments until enough money is collected.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094808/0515_Urban-Systems-1.mp3The City of Rawlins is using its WYDOT Urban Systems Committee funding to construct a pedestrian underpass at North Higley Boulevard, where it intersects with Harshman Street and Aberdeen Boulevard.
Attorney Maberry-Nave said Rawlins is unique among the other 15 municipalities with Urban Systems Advisory Committees. The city attorney said Rawlins law makes it difficult for the committee members to come to a consensus on projects.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094811/0515_Urban-Systems-2.mp3Last June, Urban Systems Advisory Committee Chairwoman Judy Dixon explained to the council that having a 15-person committee creates problems. Dixon said the legally binding by-laws prevent members from voting on important issues unless they are present at every meeting.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094814/0515_Urban-Systems-3.mp3Back at the May 7th Rawlins city council meeting, Attorney Maberry-Nave suggested that the city get rid of the existing Urban Systems Advisory Committee ordinance and allow the team to govern themselves.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094817/0515_Urban-Systems-4.mp3The city attorney she’ll meet with the Urban Systems Committee during their next meeting and see if they’ll officially adopt the existing by-laws before the city repeals its ordinance. That way, the committee will still operate under a set of regulations while new rules are being created, said the city attorney.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094820/0515_Urban-Systems-5.mp3Councilman Chris Weisenburg asked if the community or the state will have the final say over the new by-laws. Attorney Maberry-Nave said WYDOT has a set of regulations each Urban Systems Advisory Committee is expected to follow.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094823/0515_Urban-Systems-6.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum said the Urban Systems Advisory Committee was misused in the past. Instead of focusing on state-funded transportation improvement projects, Mayor Weickum said the committee spent its time putting up traffic signs.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/15094827/0515_Urban-Systems-7.mp3Attorney Maberry-Nave said repealing the city’s ordinance will allow the Urban Systems Advisory Committee to better use WYDOT funding on needed improvements.
The post Rawlins Officials Opt To Modify Rules For Urban Systems Advisory Committee first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 14, 2024 |
Photo – A graduation banner from 2022 – Courtesy Becky Cash (from Facebook)
The Rawlins city council voted to allow its two high schools to hang graduation banners from light poles in the downtown shopping district.
During the May 7th Rawlins city council meeting, Councilman Chris Weisenburg motioned to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Carbon County School District Number One to display congratulatory graduation banners on city-owned light poles.
Each banner features a picture of a graduating student with their name.
Councilman Weisenburg said the idea to hang banners of the graduating class originated during COVID. The councilman said this year’s banners have been sponsored by Rocky Mountain Power. The electric power company has also offered to put up the banners, said Councilman Weisenburg.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094316/0514_Graduation-Banners-1.mp3Both Rawlins High and Victory High School seniors will be features on the banners. The class of 2024 consists of 108 students. Ninety-nine of the students are from Rawlins High School. The remaining nine seniors are graduating from Victory High.
At last week’s city council meeting, Downtown Development Authority Mainstreet Executive Director Pam Thayer acknowledged that the MOU for the graduation banners was presented later in the year than usual. Thayer thanked City Attorney Pinita Maberry-Nave and City Clerk Lynn Shearer for making sure the agreement was brought before the council.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094320/0514_Graduation-Banners-2.mp3Thayer said she and the City Attorney considered creating a standing agreement between the city and the school district for the graduation banners. However, uncertainty over who will physically install the banners in the future eliminated the idea, said Thayer. The DDA Mainstreet Executive Director said she’ll contact the volunteer parent committee responsible for arranging the graduation banners sooner.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094322/0514_Graduation-Banners-3.mp3The Rawlins city council voted to approve the Memorandum of Understanding with Carbon County School District Number One to allow the 108 graduation banners to be displayed on the city’s lamp posts.
The post 2024 Rawlins Graduates Will See Their Photos In Downtown Area first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 14, 2024 |
Photo – Announcement of auction – Courtesy CCSO
The sheriff’s department will hold a public auction in Rawlins this afternoon to sell three surplus county vehicles.
Sheriff Alex Bakken announced the surplus vehicle auction on Monday. Three county-0wned vehicles will be sold to the highest bidders at 1:00 this afternoon outside the Carbon County Jail.
Last week, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners authorized the surplus vehicle auction.
During the county commissioners meeting held on May 7, Sheriff Bakken asked for permission to sell two old patrol trucks. The sheriff said both vehicles need new engines.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094343/0514_Vehicle-Auction-1.mp3Deputy County Clerk Lisa Smith said the county fire department also has a 17-year-old Ford F-150 to sell. Deputy Clerk Smith said Road and Bridge Superintendent Kandis Fritz also wishes to dispose of a 50-year-old trailer.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094346/0514_Vehicle-Auction-2.mp3The commissioners asked Sheriff Bakken if he had a minimum price in mind for his two patrol trucks. Because of the poor condition of the vehicles, the sheriff did not set a reserve.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094349/0514_Vehicle-Auction-3.mp3Despite serious mechanical issues, County Fire Warden John Rutherford said his department’s truck is operable. Fire Warden Rutherford suggested setting a $1,200 reserve on the vehicle.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094403/0514_Vehicle-Auction-4.mp3Road and Bridge Superintendent Fritz was unable to suggest a minimum bid for her department’s trailer.
Commissioner John Johnson moved to approve the auction with no reserve bids. The motion carried.
Sheriff Bakken announced the surplus vehicle auction for this afternoon. The auction will include both patrol vehicles and the fire department truck. The flatbed trailer is not included.
The vehicles are listed as a white 2017 Ram 1500 with 167,287 miles on it. Sheriff Bakken writes that the truck has been diagnosed as needing an engine replacement.
The second patrol vehicle is a white 2018 Ram 1500. Mileage is listed at 164,805. Like the first truck, Sheriff Bakken writes that this vehicle has been diagnosed as needing an engine replacement.
The third vehicle up for auction is the fire department’s 2007 Ford F-150 with 171,314 miles on the clock.
The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office Surplus Vehicle Auction will take place at the Carbon County Jail, located at 1302 East Daley Street in Rawlins at 1:00 this afternoon. Cash and checks will be accepted. All vehicles are being sold as-is, with no warranty expressed or implied.
The post Sheriff’s Office Holds Surplus Vehicle Auction This Afternoon first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 14, 2024 |
Photo – Fueling vehicle – Bigfoot99 file photo
After holding steady for a week, average gasoline prices in Wyoming rose 4.1 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.31 per gallon on Monday, according to GasBuddy.com‘s survey of 494 stations in Wyoming.
Prices in Wyoming are half-cent per gallon higher than a month ago, and stand 4.8 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.
According to GasBuddy price reports, the lowest price in the state on Sunday was $2.76 per gallon, while the highest was $4.29, a difference of $1.53.
Nationwide, gas prices are down 3.7 cents per gallon from last month, but still stand 6.1 cents per gallon higher than last year, according to data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas station across the country.
The national average price of diesel has fallen 4.6 cents in the last week, according to the Gas Buddy.com roundup, and now stands at $3.90 per gallon.
The post Gasoline Prices On The Rise In Wyoming first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 14, 2024 |
Photo – Precinct map – Bigfoot99 file photo
The 2024 election season kicks off in Wyoming at 8 a.m. Thursday, when the candidate filing period begins.
Applications for elected positions will open at that time for city, county, and state positions. The filing period ends at 5 p.m. May 31.
The post 2024 Election Season Starts May 16th In Wyoming first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 14, 2024 |
Photo – Miracle Mile below Seminoe Dam – Bigfoot99 file photo
The river forecasts for May in Wyoming indicate the spring snowmelt runoff will be average to slightly below average.
Total April through July runoff in the North Platte River Basin above Glendo Dam is expected to be 854,000 acre-feet, which is 90% of the 30-year average. Approximately 152,000 af of runoff was received in April.
The total conservation storage capacity of the North Platte Reservoir System is approximately 2,815,800 af. As of April 30, 2024, the combined storage content in the North Platte Reservoirs was 2,038,215 af, which is 111% of the 30-year average.
Current releases are 2,600 cubic feet per second from Seminoe Reservoir through the Miracle Mile. Releases out of Gray Reef Reservoir are 1,500 cfs. Glendo and Guernsey Reservoir releases are meeting irrigation demand. Based on current projections, the releases out of Seminoe Reservoir are expected to peak at around 2,600 cfs in May and June, while flows out of Gray Reef are expected to be in the range of approximately 1,000 to 2,600 cfs. Releases from Guernsey will be in the 2,000 to 5,000 cfs range. Pathfinder Reservoir is not expected to spill this spring.
Based on the current forecast, Bureau of Reclamation reports that an allocation is not expected for North Platte Project contractors this spring.
The post Bureau Of Rec Releases May’s River Forecasts For Wyoming first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 14, 2024 |
Photo – Soccer net – Bigfoot99 file photo
Citing a lack of participants, the Saratoga Recreation Department has cancelled the 2024 youth soccer season. The town’s recreation director is asking for input from parents on how to increase the player count in the future.
During the May 7th Saratoga town council meeting, Recreation Director Kim Hemenway informed the board that the upcoming spring soccer season has been canceled. Hemenway said only about half the needed number of kids registered.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094324/0514_Saratoga-Soccer-1.mp3Hemenway said she announced the upcoming youth soccer league last month. The rec director said she advertised online and at the local schools.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094327/0514_Saratoga-Soccer-2.mp3Hemenway said parents were given roughly two and a half weeks to register. By the time registration closed, only 24 kids were signed up.
Hemenway said Rawlins Recreation Director Nikki Howell invited Saratoga youth to play soccer in the city.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094330/0514_Saratoga-Soccer-3.mp3In a written statement, Rawlins Rec Director Howell asked Saratoga residents to contact her at the Rawlins Family Recreation Center to register for their July soccer season. Howell said the rec center will honor registration fees already paid to Saratoga.
Hemenway said the Saratoga Recreation Board is planning to release a survey asking what future changes the community would like to see for the youth soccer season. The recreation director said parents pointed to the large amount of spring activities available for kids as a reason why they weren’t participating in this year’s league.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094332/0514_Saratoga-Soccer-4.mp3Hemenway said holding the youth soccer league later in the summer conflicts with the town’s Adult Softball season and the Carbon County Fair.
The rec director said she and the other Recreation Board members unsuccessfully tried to come up with a way to save the season. Hemenway asked the public for ways to improve future youth soccer participation.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094334/0514_Saratoga-Soccer-5.mp3Mayor Chuck Davis acknowledged the difficult position the Recreation Board was put in. Hemenway said she had no other option but to cancel the soccer season.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094336/0514_Saratoga-Soccer-6.mp3Mayor Davis said our area’s short summer season means finding time to play all the sports is difficult. The mayor said parents tend to choose one sport for their children to do. Afterwards, families opt to enjoy the remainder of the summer together.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/14094339/0514_Saratoga-Soccer-7.mp3Hemenway told residents to look out for an upcoming Recreation Board survey asking how to increase participation in the town’s future youth soccer leagues.
If you would like to have your child play soccer in Rawlins, contact the Rawlins Family Recreation center at 324-7529.
The post 2024 Youth Soccer Canceled In Saratoga first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 13, 2024 |
Photo – Water Tank looks over El Rancho residential neighborhood – Bigfoot99 file photo
The City of Rawlins issued a news release on Friday about the potential of drinking water in the municipality appearing cloudy after interruptions to service last week.
The high-pressure line that carries water from the treatment plant to the in-town water tanks suffered three holes over the course of last week. The high-pressure line which has been earmarked for priority repairs over the next five years suffered blowouts on Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
All the holes were repaired quickly, within one day of being discovered. According to the release from the city, levels in the storage tanks remained at safe levels.
The section of pipe that suffered the damage is scheduled to be replaced today.
The release issued by the City over the weekend advises that because of the fragile condition of the high-pressure water line, it may continue to experience breaks. Any ruptures will require clamping and other repairs.
The City’s high-pressure transmission line is critical to about half of the residents in Rawlins. The line carries treated water from the treatment plant to both in-town tanks. One of the tanks sits above the El Rancho/Hospital neighborhood. The other is situated above the Happy Hollow/Scarlet Drive neighborhood.
The post City Of Rawlins Issues Press Release About Cloudy Water first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 13, 2024 |
Photo – Image of Emergency Call Taker – Bigfoot99 file photo
Carbon County’s three law enforcement agencies have announced the formation of a Combined Dispatch Operations Collaborative Working Group to investigate ways to improve emergency dispatching.
On Thursday afternoon, Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken announced the creation of a joint task force between his office and the Rawlins and Saratoga Police Departments.
Speaking to Bigfoot99, Sheriff Bakken said the working group is designed to find ways to improve police dispatching across Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13100937/0513_County-Dispatch-1.mp3Sheriff Bakken said the working group will look at the challenges currently facing public safety communications, specifically staffing shortages, out-of-date equipment, and the transferring of emergency 911 calls. The sheriff said finding enough dispatchers to man three separate call centers is very difficult.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13100940/0513_County-Dispatch-2.mp3As for equipment, Sheriff Bakken said providing three call centers with up-to-date monitoring gear is very costly.
Referring to the transferring of 911 calls, the sheriff said having a single dispatch center would lower the chances of making an error when handing emergency calls over to state agencies.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13100945/0513_County-Dispatch-3.mp3Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward agreed that staffing a 24-hour dispatch center is difficult. However, Chief Ward said some of the issues with dispatching cannot be eliminated, such as transferring 911 calls.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13100948/0513_County-Dispatch-4.mp3Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris said the Combined Dispatch Operations Collaborative Working Group was formed to investigate the options available to improve emergency call service. Chief Morris said he, Sheriff Bakken, and Chief Ward will meet and discuss what, if any, changes are needed at the county’s three dispatching agencies.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13100951/0513_County-Dispatch-5.mp3Rawlins Police Chief Ward said the taskforce will allow the county’s three law enforcement agencies to better understand and convey the needs of their respective dispatch centers. Chief Ward said the working group does not have a specific end goal in mind, such as the creation of a single county-wide emergency call center.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13100953/0513_County-Dispatch-6.mp3A joint combined dispatch center is not off the table, however. Sheriff Bakken said the Combined Dispatch Operations Collaborative Working Group is dedicated to improving law enforcement in Carbon County in any way possible.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13100956/0513_County-Dispatch-7.mp3Sheriff Bakken thanked the Saratoga and Rawlins Police Departments for coming together to identify deficiencies in the county’s dispatch operations and find ways to do better for residents.
The post Carbon County Law Enforcement Creates Joint Taskforce To Improve Dispatch Strategies first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 13, 2024 |
Photo – Satellite Image of Bennett and State Streets in Rawlins – Courtesy Google Maps
The county commissioners have donated an unused parcel of county land to the City of Rawlins. During last week’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Deputy County Clerk Lisa Smith discussed the county-owned property located near the corner of West State and Bennett Streets, on the southwest side of Rawlins.
County Attorney Ashley Davis said the county has no need for the parcel of land and should give it to the city.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13100958/0513_County-Land-1.mp3Deputy Clerk Smith said the county does not know the value of the land. However, Rawlins officials will still accept the vacant property without performing a costly survey first.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13101001/0513_County-Land-2.mp3Commissioner Travis Moore moved to sign Resolution 2024-08, a resolution of the board to donate vacant land. Commissioner Moore read the resolution.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13101005/0513_County-Land-3.mp3Commissioner John Johnson said the county has been selling vacant property in an effort to increase tax revenue. Commissioner Johnson said the parcel of land on West State and Bennett Streets will be better utilized by the city.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13101008/0513_County-Land-4.mp3The board voted to donate the county-owned property on the southwest side of Rawlins to the City of Rawlins.
The post County Donates Parcel Of Land To City Of Rawlins first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 13, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins Police Department – Bigfoot99 file photo
Today marks the beginning of National Police Week. The Rawlins Police Department will hold a special event this Thursday to honor fallen officers.
On October 1, 1961, the 87th Congress of the United States authorized President John F. Kennedy to designate May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. Additionally, the week in which May 15th falls is considered National Police Week.
During last week’s Rawlins city council meeting, Mayor Terry Weickum read a proclamation declaring the week of May 12th through the 18th as National Police Week.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13101011/0513_Police-Week-1.mp3Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward thanked the council for the proclamation. Chief Ward said since its inception in 1961, National Police Week has served as a reminder of all the men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The police chief provided the number of fallen peace officers in Rawlins and across the country.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13101013/0513_Police-Week-2.mp3In its 138 years of existence, the Rawlins Police Department has lost three officers. According to the Officer Down Memorial Page website, on April 20th, 1903, Lieutenant Thomas Kling and Officer John Baxter responded to a shots fired call at a local store. The owner of the store was known for being overly aggressive toward his neighbors and the police. When Officer Baxter and Lieutenant Kling entered the store, the owner ambushed them, shooting and killing both officers.
The store owner was convicted of manslaughter in the deaths of both officers and sentenced to 4 years in prison.
Lieutenant Kling was a veteran of the Spanish American War.
Ninety-three years later, on June 4, 1996, Lieutenant Delavan Lewis Dixon suffered a fatal heart attack while participating in the FBI Physical Fitness Challenge in Quantico, Virginia. Lieutenant Dixon was taking part in the 185th Session of FBI National Academy and was due to graduate ten days later.
Lieutenant Dixon served with the Rawlins Police Department for 16 years.
The Saratoga Police Department has not officially lost an officer in the line of duty.
In the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Sheriff Robert Widdowfield was killed when he and Special Agent Henry Vincents, of the Union Pacific Railroad Police Department, were ambushed by Big Nose George Parrot and his gang on Elk Mountain.
Deputy Sheriff Widdowfield had been deputized that day to join a posse to search for the suspect. Big Nose George was eventually arrested for the murders, but was lynched in Rawlins before he could stand trial.
At last Tuesday’s Rawlins city council meeting, Chief Ward announced a flag ceremony and open house at the Rawlins Police Station. The police chief invited everyone to attend this Thursday’s event.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/13101016/0513_Police-Week-3.mp3An official statement by the City reads, “In the City of Rawlins, Wyoming we honor those law enforcement officers who, through their courageous deeds, have made the ultimate sacrifice to their community or have become disabled in the performance of duty, and let us recognize and pay respects to those survivors of our fallen heroes.”
The Rawlins Police Department’s flag ceremony and open house will be at 2:30pm, this Thursday, May 16th in front of the Rawlins Police Station, located at 215 5th Street. All are welcome to come and pay their respects to the men and women tasked with keeping the residents of Rawlins safe. Afterwards, the public will be invited to tour the police station.
The post Rawlins Mayor Proclaims This Week As National Police Week first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 13, 2024 |
Photo – Coach Jeff Linder – Bigfoot99 file photo
Say goodbye to Jeff Linder. The Wyoming head basketball coach won’t be around much longer. After an up-and-down run in Laramie for the last several years, Linder appears to have accepted an assistant coaching position at Texas Tech.
ESPN broke the story Thursday night, reporting that Tech is targeting Linder as Grant McCasland’s top assistant.
Linder’s arrival in Lubbock would mark a reunion for the two coaches. He spent two seasons as McCasland’s assistant at Midland Junior College, from 2004-06, when Midland won a combined 53 games.
Linder’s up-and-down ride in Laramie began in 2020. His overall record is 63-59 after a promising first year after leading Wyoming to a first-round appearance in the 2022 NCAA tournament with standout Cowboys Hunter Maldonado and Graham Ike.
Wyoming lost in opening round of First Four play to Indiana. Maldonado returned the following year to finish his senior season. Ike missed the entire season with a foot injury before transferring to Gonzaga the following year.
Before taking over at Wyoming, Linder was the head coach at Northern Colorado for four seasons. He went 80-50 overall, including three straight 20-win campaigns to end his time with the Bears.
McCasland just finished his first season as head coach at Texas Tech, where he led the Red Raiders to 23 wins and an NCAA tournament appearance. Tech is expected to return three double-figure scorers.
Back in Laramie, Former UW assistant Sundance Wicks and current UW associate head coach Ken DeWeese are expected to be on the short list of head coaching possibilities.
The post UW Basketball Coach Moving To Warmer Climate first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 10, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall and Police Department – Bigfoot99 file photo
The mayor of Saratoga this week postponed a public meeting scheduled for Monday to discuss the proposal to combine the town’s dispatch center with the one operated by the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office.
The workshop, which is likely to be rescheduled for later in May or in early June, is meant to discuss the need to combine the town and county emergency dispatching centers. The meeting was originally scheduled for this coming Monday, May 13th. A new date has not been determined yet.
The workshop cancellation was discussed during Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting. Mayor Davis said he postponed Monday’s workshop to allow more council members to attend.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10161243/0510_Dispatch-Meeting-Scrubbed-1.mp3The meeting is meant to give town officials an opportunity to explain to the public why a combined dispatch center is needed. Citing a lack of staffing and the expense of maintaining equipment, Sheriff Alex Bakken and Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris began investigating the possibility of bringing both emergency call centers under one roof.
Mayor Davis said the dispatch workshop is too important for town council members to miss. The mayor said he will announce when a new date for the meeting is set.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10161246/0510_Dispatch-Meeting-Scrubbed-2.mp3Chief Morris said the workshop will serve to inform the public about why a combined dispatch center is needed and how it can potentially operate. The police chief said nothing has been finalized. If a combined dispatch center is created, Chief Morris said it will likely be governed by a joint powers board.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10161248/0510_Dispatch-Meeting-Scrubbed-3.mp3Chief Morris said he and Sheriff Bakken have been looking into how other counties, such as Sweetwater, run their combined emergency dispatch centers. The police chief said Carbon County’s size and number of towns presents challenges that other counties have not had to face. We can’t simply copy what other counties are doing, said Chief Morris
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10161251/0510_Dispatch-Meeting-Scrubbed-4.mp3Chief Morris said more research must be done before a potential combined dispatch center is formed. The police chief said the upcoming workshop will allow the public to voice their concerns to the council. Mayor Davis said the council can also explain to residents why a combined dispatch center is needed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10161253/0510_Dispatch-Meeting-Scrubbed-5.mp3Mayor Davis said the executive director of the Sweetwater County joint dispatch center, Rick Hawkins, will be on hand during the meeting to answer questions about how their joint powers board works. The mayor encouraged as many people as possible to attend the workshop.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10161256/0510_Dispatch-Meeting-Scrubbed-6.mp3As of the reporting of this story, the town has not chosen a new day for the workshop to discuss dispatching services in Carbon County. Yesterday afternoon, Assistant Town Clerk Brenda Mistelske informed reporter Matt Copeland that Bigfoot99 will be notified as soon as a new date is set.
The post Public Meeting Cancelled By Saratoga Mayor first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 10, 2024 |
Photo – Big Boy #4014 – Bigfoot99 file photo
Union Pacific Railroad’s legendary Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, will make 19 whistle-stops in five states this summer during its 2024 Westward Bound Tour from Wyoming to California.
Big Boy was built to conquer the mountains of Wyoming and Utah on its way to California.
Twenty-five Big Boy locomotives were built for Union Pacific to haul freight over the steep grade of the Wasatch Mountain Range in Utah during World War II. Eight were preserved after the locomotives were retired six decades ago. Only one Big Boy No. 4014 remains in operation today, and the big, bustling engine remains a crowd pleaser for the young and old alike.
The locomotive will roll out of Laramie one Sunday, June 30. Scheduled stops include Wamsutter on Monday, July 1. Big Boy has a planned half-hour stop there at Broadway and Boyd near the water tower between 10:30 and 11:00 a.m.
You may also catch a glimpse of No. 4014 before it rolls out of Rawlins on that Monday morning.
On the return trip, Big Boy will make a 45-minute stop at Point of Rocks, the Black Buttes Road Crossing, around 8:45 a.m. on Thursday, July 25 on its way home.
The locomotive will make an overnight stay that night in Rawlins before making the final leg home to Cheyenne.
The crew will make a 30-minute stop at Medicine Bow on Friday morning from 11 to 11:30 on Friday, July 26.
U.P. reminds railroads enthusiasts to enjoy the impressive sight but to stand back at least 25-feet from the track.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114247/0510_Big-Boy-1.mp3You heard two voices in that clip from 2019 when Big Boy was brought back to life for the 150th anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad. First was the Chairman, President and CEO of UP, Lance Fritz. The second, of course, was Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon.
Big Boy is at home in Wyoming if only because it burns coal—56,000 pounds of coal fire the boiler for the steam that runs the engine.
Impressive in size—No. 4014 is 133-feet long and stands 16-feet, 4-inches high. It’s a monumental machine that draws enthusiastic crowds wherever it makes an appearance.
The last time it came through, scores of railroad enthusiasts drove the highways along side it to experience the view and the power of the machine.
Union Pacific took delivery of Big Boy in December 1941. The locomotive was retired 20 years later in December 1961, having traveled 1,031,205 miles in its two decades of service. Union Pacific reacquired No. 4014 from the Rail Giants Museum in Pomona, California, in 2013, and relocated it in Cheyenne to begin a multi-year restoration process.
Ed Dickens, manager of Heritage Operations for UP, recorded an important reminder for Big Boy fans. Please keep your enthusiasm in check.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114250/0510_Big-Boy-2.mp3Big Boy will steam out of Laramie on Sunday, June 30th with as scheduled stop in Wamsutter on Monday, July 1. It will make a 30-minute stop in Medicine Bow on its return trip on Friday, July 26 at 11 a.m.
The post World’s Largest Operating Steam Locomotive On The Move This Summer first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 10, 2024 |
Photo – Image from Parking Education – Courtesy City of Rawlins website
Officials on the Rawlins governing body demanded that something be done about abandoned and derelict vehicles on city streets.
Last month, during April 16th Rawlins city council meeting, Police Chief Mike Ward informed Councilman Chris Weisenburg that Wyoming state law gives the county the sole authority to remove abandoned vehicles from city streets. Chief Ward said his officers will contact the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office when they suspect a car has been abandoned. Beyond that, the chief said, the Sheriff is responsible for impounding offending vehicles.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114213/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-1.mp3The council asked City Attorney Pinita Maberry-Nave to investigate the matter.
At Tuesday’s Rawlins city council meeting, City Attorney Maberry-Nave said the City has had a long list of public nuisance offenses, including derelict vehicles, since the 1980’s.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114217/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-2.mp3Attorney Maberry-Nave said the Rawlins Police Department typically issues a warning to the vehicle owner, which usually results in the matter being resolved out of court. If the owner refuses to move the offending vehicle, the city attorney said state law trumps the city’s ordinances.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114220/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-3.mp3Attorney Maberry-Nave said Rawlins police officers must inform the sheriff’s department about the abandoned vehicle. Afterwards, the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office is ultimately responsible for beginning the impound process.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114222/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-4.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum said the city must have a way to remove derelict vehicles from the streets. Mayor Weickum pointed to a specific abandoned car that has remained illegally parked downtown for months.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114225/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-5.mp3Vice Mayor Steve Sanger asked how long a vehicle can sit before the city considered it abandoned. Attorney Maberry-Nave said state and city statutes both say 24 hours.
Councilman Weisenburg asked if the city could tow the offending vehicle since it is illegally parked facing the wrong way with out-of-date license plates. Attorney Maberry-Nave said the vehicle can be considered both illegally parked and abandoned.
Vice Mayor Sanger said no matter which ordinance the vehicle owner is breaking, the car in question has been sitting for longer than 24 hours.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114228/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-6.mp3Police Chief Ward said the Rawlins PD has made the sheriff’s department aware of the aforementioned vehicle. Responding to a question from Mayor Weickum, Chief Ward said in the past, impounding and storing abandoned vehicles proved to be too costly to the city.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114230/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-7.mp3Mayor Weickum said the city should have a towing company remove the offending vehicle. “That way,” said the mayor, “the towing company would be entirely responsible for storage.”
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114232/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-8.mp3Chief Ward said state law prevents the city from impounding vehicles. The police chief said the entire impounding process is legally the responsibility of the sheriff’s department.
Mayor Weickum said he believes that the sheriff only needs to get involved if the derelict vehicle is sold. The mayor said the city needs a way to enforce its own ordinances, independent of the county.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114235/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-9.mp3Chief Ward said having a towing company remove the offending vehicle may still violate state law. The police chief said he doesn’t believe a towing company will take ownership of a car no one wants.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114238/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-10.mp3Mayor Weickum said the towing company can sell parts off the car to recoup their towing costs. Chief Ward said that process may violate the state law requiring the sheriff’s department to sell impounded vehicles.
Councilman Weisenburg asked why the city hasn’t towed the offending car for being illegally parked. Chief Ward said he does not move an illegally parked vehicle unless it presents a public hazard.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114240/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-11.mp3Councilman Weisenburg said that the chief was interpreting the city ordinance in his own manner. The councilman said Chief Ward should use the established illegal parking laws to remove abandoned vehicles from the city streets.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114243/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-12.mp3Mayor Weickum said having derelict vehicles on the streets makes the city look bad. The mayor instructed Chief Ward to find a way to remove the abandoned cars from the city.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114245/0510_Abandoned-Vehicles-13.mp3Chief Ward said he’ll consult with Sheriff Alex Bakken on what the city can do about the abandoned vehicles and return to the council with the information at a later date.
The post Rawlins Officials Try To Find Solution To Abandoned And Derelict Vehicles first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 10, 2024 |
Photo – Sky lanterns – Courtesy Bing AI
The county fire warden is discouraging residents from shooting flaming objects into the sky. Apparently, some people have to be told that is a bad idea.
During the May 7th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Fire Warden John Rutherford said residents have asked about using sky lanterns during celebrations. Otherwise known as a Chinese lantern, a sky lantern consists of a balloon made of paper with an opening at the bottom where a small fire is suspended. Fire Warden Rutherford said not to release lit fires into the sky.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114325/0510_Sky-Lanterns-1.mp3Fire Warden Rutherford said sky lanterns can easily cause a wildfire when they touch down. Rutherford said after explaining to people that they are responsible for what happens after the lantern lands, they usually choose not to use them.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114327/0510_Sky-Lanterns-2.mp3Rutherford informed the county commissioners that people have also asked about using fireworks to distribute cremated human remains. The fire warden said the amount of charge needed to lift a firework that large off the ground presents too great of a fire risk.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/10114330/0510_Sky-Lanterns-3.mp3Rutherford thanked residents for presenting him with their unusual requests. However, the fire warden said people need to consider what happens after the sky lantern or firework lands before sending flaming objects into the sky.
The post County Fire Warden Advises Not To Shoot Flaming Objects Toward The Sky first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 9, 2024 |
Photo – Barkhurst Collision Center – Courtesy Yelp
The Saratoga town council selected a new member to fill the empty seat.
During Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, the board voted local business owner Bub Barkhurst onto the council.
Barkhurst takes the seat formerly held by Jacob Fluty. Fluty died in February after getting caught in an avalanche while snowmobiling in the Sierra Madre Mountains.
In March, Mayor Chuck Davis requested letters of interest for the open council position. At Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Mayor Davis announced that two people were interested in serving on the board.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113816/0509_Toga-Council-Member-1.mp3Mayor Davis called the candidates up to read their letters of interest and answer questions from the council.
Planning Commission member Chia Valdez was first. Valdez began by reading her letter of interest.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113818/0509_Toga-Council-Member-2.mp3Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked Valdez why she wants to be on the council and what she hopes to accomplish. Valdez said she is drawn to serve and wants to guide the town while it grows.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113821/0509_Toga-Council-Member-3.mp3Councilwoman Beck asked Valdez what makes her qualified to serve on the town council. Valdez said being a Wyoming resident, radio host, and local business owner gives her the ability to effectively serve the town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113824/0509_Toga-Council-Member-4.mp3Mayor Davis then asked local business owner Bub Barkhurst to address the board. Barkhurst read his letter of interest.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113827/0509_Toga-Council-Member-5.mp3Councilwoman Beck asked Barkhurst similar questions about his motives. Barkhurst said he wants to ensure the town doesn’t change fundamentally while it grows. Barkhurst pointed to his experience as a manager and business owner as proof of his ability to govern.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113830/0509_Toga-Council-Member-6.mp3Mayor Davis explained that whoever the council chooses will only serve until the end of the year. The mayor encouraged both candidates to register their names for the upcoming November elections.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113833/0509_Toga-Council-Member-7.mp3Mayor Davis asked the council to select one of the candidates. Councilwoman Beck motioned to appoint Valdez, but her motion died for a lack of a second. Councilman Jerry Fluty motioned to choose Barkhurst. Councilman Mike Cooley seconded and the motion was passed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113835/0509_Toga-Council-Member-8.mp3Mayor Davis informed Valdez that she could still run for the council seat this November.
Barkhurst will serve on the Saratoga town council until December 31st.
The post Local Business Owner Appointed To Vacant Seat On Saratoga’s Town Council first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 9, 2024 |
Photo – A Rawlins deer shows no fear of photographer – Bigfoot99 file photo
During Tuesday’s Rawlins city council meeting, Mayor Terry Weickum’s wife, Debbie Weickum, spoke about aggressive deer during the citizen’s participation portion of the meeting. Mrs. Weickum said 16 years ago, a deer got into her yard and killed her dog. After the incident, the mayor’s wife said she has worked to create an Urban Deer Advisory Committee to institute a yearly deer cull in the city.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113730/0509_Deer-Cull-1.mp3Mrs. Weickum said the culling ended in 2023, after Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward refused to have his officers participate in the program. The mayor’s wife said another aggressive deer recently got into her yard and threatened to attack her and her dog. She asked that something be done about the deer population in the city.
Later in Tuesday’s meeting, City Attorney Pinita Maberry-Nave said she was asked to investigate reestablishing the Urban Deer Advisory Committee.
Maberry-Nave said deer have been a problem in Rawlins since the 1990’s. The city attorney said numerous attempts were made to have Wyoming Game and Fish allow a deer cull in the city limits. It wasn’t until 2018 that the Urban Deer Advisory Committee was formed to find a way to keep the deer population in check.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113733/0509_Deer-Cull-2.mp3The following year, the city began a yearly deer cull.
Maberry-Nave said the committee disbanded in 2020. The city attorney said a new committee needs to be created before another deer cull can occur.
Mayor Weickum said the deer must be killed because they have only gotten more aggressive since people started feeding them.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113736/0509_Deer-Cull-3.mp3To institute another deer cull, the city must obtain an in-town big game take permit from Wyoming Game and Fish. Mayor Weickum said Game and Fish explained that killing the deer is the only option.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113738/0509_Deer-Cull-4.mp3Because Game and Fish refuse to actively participate in the deer cull, Mayor Weickum said the city was forced to purchase costly hunting equipment. In the past, the mayor said Rawlins police officers would lure the deer into less populated areas of the city to kill them.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113741/0509_Deer-Cull-5.mp3Mayor Weickum said the deer are too aggressive. The mayor said the city must form a steering committee and begin culling the deer once more.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113743/0509_Deer-Cull-6.mp3Mayor Weickum said Game and Fish permitted the city to kill 50 deer during the last cull. The mayor said the deer meat was donated to needy families.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113745/0509_Deer-Cull-7.mp3Councilwoman Tonya Lewman asked City Attorney Maberry-Nave to investigate why the previous Urban Deer Advisory Committee disbanded. Councilwoman Lewman said she was told that the city opposed the deer hunt. Mayor Weickum specifically blamed Police Chief Ward.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113747/0509_Deer-Cull-8.mp3Councilman Darril Garner said Chief Ward did not oppose the deer kill. Councilman Garner said the police chief simply did not want to shoot deer within the city.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113751/0509_Deer-Cull-9.mp3Mayor Weickum said Councilman Garner was not at the meeting he was speaking about. Councilman Chris Weisenburg called a point of order and the council moved on.
City Attorney Maberry-Nave was asked to collect more information about reforming the Urban Deer Advisory Committee and present it to the council at a later date.
The post Rawlins Officials Discuss Restarting Deer Cull first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 9, 2024 |
Photo – Pitch Night Poster – Courtesy Rawlins DDA
The public is invited to come to the Parco-Sinclair Theater next week to watch five local small business owners compete for investment money.
On Wednesday, May 15th, the Parco-Sinclair Theatre will host the second annual Carbon County Start-Up Challenge Pitch Night. Five Carbon County entrepreneurs will take the stage and request seed money to expand their businesses.
Back in February, Rawlins Downtown Development Authority Mainstreet Executive Director Pam Thayer asked small business owners to apply for the event. The Start-Up Challenge committee reviewed all the applications and narrowed the field down to five finalists.
Thayer said various agencies from around the state teamed up to put on the Start-Up Challenge.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113753/0509_Pitch-Night-1.mp3Thayer said thanks to the generosity of the event sponsors, the Carbon County Start-Up Challenge has $25,000 to distribute amongst the five finalists.
The entrepreneurs must prove to the judges that they can use the seed money to expand their businesses and provide employment opportunities in Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113755/0509_Pitch-Night-2.mp3In March, the Start-Up Challenge committee announced their five finalists. Thayer said the Hanna-based pizza company, Slow Poke’s Pizza Garage was chosen to compete for investment capital.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113757/0509_Pitch-Night-3.mp3The next finalist is Hobo Diva Design. Thayer said the Rawlins-based company combines graphic design and custom clothing.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113801/0509_Pitch-Night-4.mp3The third finalist is Bagels and Badges in Saratoga. Thayer said the former police officer is providing quality baked goods throughout Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113804/0509_Pitch-Night-5.mp3Last year’s finalist, Don Woolley is returning this year to request more money to develop his custom-built software. Thayer said Good Raising LLC creates wills for charities and non-profits across the country.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113808/0509_Pitch-Night-6.mp3The fifth finalist is Dunn’s Customs. Thayer said having a local custom laser engraving and powder coating service is very convenient.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113811/0509_Pitch-Night-7.mp3The five entrepreneurs will give presentations before a panel of three judges. Thayer said last year, two of the judges were Rawlins business owners and the third judge was from the University of Wyoming. “This year, only one local business owner will sit at the judges table”, said Thayer.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/09113814/0509_Pitch-Night-8.mp3The 2024 Carbon County Start-Up Challenge Pitch Night is next Wednesday, May 15th at the Parco-Sinclair Theater. Doors open at 6:00pm. Attendance is free. Audience members can cast their vote for a small business to win the people’s choice award.
The post Local Small Business Owners Compete For Investment Money first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 9, 2024 |
Photo – Yuto Yamanouchi-Williams – Courtesy ESPN
Wyoming Cowboy head men’s basketball coach Jeff Linder announced the addition of forward Yuto Yamanouchi-Williams (YOO-toh YAH-muh-NOO-chee) to the roster for the upcoming season. . Yamanouchi will have two-years of eligibility at Wyoming after spending last season at Portland.
The native of Japan is a 6-10, 230-pound forward. Last season, Yamanouchi-Williams appeared in 12 games with 11 starts all coming in West Coast Conference play. He averaged 8.6 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. He averaged nearly one block per game and shot 36 percent from behind the arc. He scored a season-high 17 points against Santa Clara and had a season-high 10 rebounds against Pacific.
Yamanouchi-Williams spent his freshman season at Lamar where he averaged 6.9 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. He added five double-doubles and nearly averaged one blocked shot per game. He started 24 games as a true freshman.
Linder said that Yamanouchi’s size and skill set will give the Cowboys options up front. He’s also a good rebounder.
The post Wyoming Cowboy Basketball Welcomes Transfer From Portland first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 8, 2024|
Photo – Campbell County fire fighters prepare to enter courthouse – Courtesy Campbell County Fire Department
Mysterious packages of white powder were sent to two Wyoming courthouses recently. Carbon County officials are on alert in case a similar incident occurs here.
Earlier this month, both the Campbell and Natrona County Courthouses received suspicious letters containing white powder and a note indicating the substance is hazardous.
The Wyoming National Guard responded to the scenes and tested both white powders using specialized equipment and found that the substances posed no danger.
According to Wyoming National Guard Public Affairs, initial tests for chemical and biological warfare agents came back negative. Further confirmation tests were conducted at the Wyoming Public Health Laboratory to ensure comprehensive analysis. The state lab ran tests on the sample using Time Resolved Fluorescence and Polymerase Chain Reaction. The substance was plated, and no growth was observed. Taken together, the state lab’s findings give further confirmation of a negative result for biological agents.
At Tuesday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Carbon County Health Officer Dr. Duane Ables said that an investigation confirmed that the envelopes did not contain a toxic substance. Dr. Ables told the board that the letters originated from an Idaho prison.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102206/0508_White-Powder-1.mp3Dr. Ables said Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman was notified about the incidents in Natrona and Campbell Counties. The county health officer instructed the board not to open any letters from Idaho prisons.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102208/0508_White-Powder-2.mp3If someone opens a letter containing a white powder, Dr. Ables said they should gently place the envelope down, call the police, and take a shower. Dr. Ables said removing the powder residue as quickly as possible will help you avoid getting infected.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102211/0508_White-Powder-3.mp3The Campbell County Fire Department issued a media release saying that on Wednesday, May 1st, at 10:58am, they were dispatched to the Campbell County Courthouse for suspected hazardous materials exposure. Gillette Police Department personnel on scene advised that the Courthouse had been evacuated and that 10 people had been exposed to an unknown substance. One person at the original scene was transported to Campbell County Health for precautionary evaluation.
The following day, on Thursday May 2nd, the Natrona County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement saying that at 11:45am, the Hall of Justice building, located at 201 North David Street, was closed for the remainder of the day due to an active investigation.
Later that same day, the Natrona County sheriff said, “Out of an abundance of caution, the Hall of Justice was evacuated and closed due to a report of a suspicious package.” The report was thoroughly investigated, and it has been determined that there is no threat to the public.
Both incidents were investigated by the Wyoming National Guard which indicated that neither envelope contained toxic materials.
Carbon County has not been targeted in the same manner as Natrona and Campbell Counties.
The post Mysterious Packages Cause For Alarm At Two Wyoming Courthouses first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 8, 2024|
Photo – A fuel pump – Courtesy yelp.com
Average gasoline prices in Wyoming remained unchanged during the last week, averaging $3.27 per gallon on Monday, according to Gas Buddy.com’s survey of 494 stations in the Cowboy State.
According to the web site’s listings, gas prices in Rawlins range from $3.09 per gallon to $3.39. In Saratoga, the two gas stations on First Street are both at $3.19 per gallon.
Across Wyoming, prices average 0.3 cents per gallon higher than a month ago, and 8.0 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.
One gas station in Cheyenne shows a price of $2.89 per gallon—the least expensive price in the Cowboy State.
The post Average Fuel Prices In Wyoming Remain Unchanged In Last Week first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 8, 2024|
Photo – Meeting notice – Courtesy CCSO
Sheriff Alex Bakken is hoping for a large turnout at a future combined dispatch informational meeting in Saratoga.
The town of Saratoga and the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office originally scheduled a workshop on Monday, May 13th to discuss dispatch services. The meeting will allow Saratoga and county officials to explain to the public why a combined emergency dispatch call center is needed.
However, during their Tuesday meeting, the Saratoga town council postponed the workshop. As of the reporting of this story, a new date has not been set.
Discussion about a combined dispatch center originated last November when, citing a lack of staffing, the Saratoga Police Department asked the sheriff’s office to cover the town’s call center. After the agreement ended, Sheriff Alex Bakken began investigating the pros and cons of bringing all dispatch services for Carbon County under one roof.
At yesterday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Sheriff Bakken encouraged residents to attend the upcoming workshop. The sheriff said he created a public safety communications survey to allow people to express their thoughts about the proposed combined dispatch center.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08103255/0508_Dispatch-Meeting-1-1.mp3Sheriff Bakken said over 100 people have taken the short, four question survey. The sheriff shared his favorite comment received through the survey and asked for more responses from the public.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08103257/0508_Dispatch-Meeting-2-1.mp3Sheriff Bakken said he would like at least 200 people to respond to the online survey before he takes it down.
On his Facebook page, Sheriff Bakken shared another comment received through the survey. The comment states, “The population isn’t going to stop growing. Having multiple agencies keeps a peace of mind that the call volume can be answered efficiently.”
The sheriff responded by writing that it may seem like more centers can help alleviate increased call volume. However, when three dispatchers are working alone across three different call centers, they can quickly become overwhelmed by the increased volume, especially during a large-scale incident. On the other hand, if the three dispatchers are working together in one center, they could share the workload and relay information seamlessly without having to transfer calls or request assistance from other centers.
Sheriff Bakken pointed out that Park, Albany, Sweetwater, Laramie, Natrona, and Teton Counties all have higher populations than Carbon County and use combined dispatch centers.
Speaking at yesterday’s commissioners meeting, Sheriff Bakken said the executive director of the Sweetwater County joint dispatch center, Rick Hawkins, will be on hand during the upcoming meeting to answer questions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08103300/0508_Dispatch-Meeting-3-1.mp3Through the online public safety communications survey, Sheriff Bakken was asked how many calls get transferred between the Rawlins, Saratoga, and the sheriff’s dispatch centers. The sheriff wrote, over the last year, 175 emergency 911 calls were transferred from the Rawlins Police Department Dispatch Center to the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center. This number does not include calls that were transferred from the Saratoga Police Department.
In Carbon County, only the Rawlins Police Department’s dispatch center receives emergency 911 calls. They are responsible for routing calls to the appropriate law enforcement agency, including the sheriff’s department and Wyoming Highway Patrol.
The workshop for dispatch services was originally set for Monday, May 13th. However, scheduling conflicts caused Saratoga Mayor Chuck Davis to postpone the workshop until a later date. Due to the importance of the meeting, Mayor Davis said he wants as many town council members as possible to attend.
A new date for the workshop for dispatch services meeting has not been announced yet.
The post Meeting On Combined Dispatch Center Cancelled Until Later Date first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 8, 2024|
Photo – Rawlins Family Recreation Center – Bigfoot99 file photo
Although the Rawlins Recreation Center loses money every year, closing the facility is not an option, says the Rawlins city council.
Before the April 16th regular Rawlins city council meeting, the board met with City Manager Tom Sarvey to review increases to rates for city services. The rate increases are required to raise revenue to cover inflation and pay for necessary repairs to city infrastructure.
During the rate review workshop, City Manager Sarvey discussed the Rawlins Family Recreation Center. Sarvey said membership fees should increase by 20% across the board.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102145/0508_Rawlins-Rec-Center-1.mp3Under the new fee schedule, a yearly family pass will go from $370 to $444.
Sarvey also suggested increasing the daily use rate by 20%. However, the city manager said the rec center should not charge more for its Kids Korral Day Care.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102147/0508_Rawlins-Rec-Center-2.mp3Sarvey also proposed increasing the two-hour rental fee for Washington, Depot, Bolton, and Rob Roy Parks from $15 to $50.
Councilman Bruce Seilaff suggested adding a deposit to the park rental rate to cover the cost of cleaning. Mayor Terry Weickum agreed with Councilman Seilaff. Mayor Weickum said the deposit will be returned to the customer if cleaning isn’t needed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102150/0508_Rawlins-Rec-Center-3.mp3The council agreed that a $100 cleaning deposit should be added to the city park rental fee.
City Manager Sarvey said the Rawlins Family Recreation Center only brings in 17% of its operating budget. Sarvey said the rec center costs the city $715,000 a year.
Councilman Darril Garner asked if having a city-operated recreation center is a good idea. Not enough people use the facility to justify taking money away from more essential projects, said Councilman Garner.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102153/0508_Rawlins-Rec-Center-4.mp3Councilman Garner asked City Manager Sarvey if the rate increases at the rec center will make a big difference on the city’s budget. Sarvey said the effect will be minor, bringing in only an additional $14,000 a year.
Sarvey also proposed a 10% increase on the rates at the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course, noting that the golf course brings in 35% of its operating budget through memberships and greens fees.
Councilwoman Tonya Lewman said increased rates at the rec center and golf courses are likely to drive down attendance, further lowering the money generated through memberships. If the city can’t find a way to make the facilities more profitable, the council should consider taking drastic action, said Councilwoman Lewman.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102155/0508_Rawlins-Rec-Center-5.mp3Councilman Chris Weisenburg said the recreation department will never pay for itself. However, Councilman Weisenburg said the rec center is too valuable to lose.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102158/0508_Rawlins-Rec-Center-6.mp3Councilman Weisenberg said other city services operate at a loss, including the police, fire, and streets departments. The councilman said eliminating the rec center will hurt young people.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102201/0508_Rawlins-Rec-Center-7.mp3Councilwoman Lewman said she agreed with Weisenburg’s opinion. However, Lewman said if the city can’t afford to continue funding the recreation center, then they won’t have a choice but to close the facility.
Mayor Weickum said the council must make difficult decisions when creating the city’s yearly budget. The mayor said rate increases, while unpopular, are needed to ensure the city can continue to offer the same level of amenities.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/08102203/0508_Rawlins-Rec-Center-8.mp3Parks & Recreation Director Nikki Howell said no one will use the recreation center if the city raises the rates enough to make the facility break even.
The Rawlins city council voted to approve the 20% rec center membership rate increases.
The post Rawlins Officials Discuss Fee Hike For Rec Center And Golf Course first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 7, 2024 |
Photo – Today’s wind graph – Courtesy weather.gov/cys
Snow and very windy conditions persisted across much of southeast Wyoming on Monday. The result yesterday was crashes and travel delays from Arlington, here in Carbon County, eastward to Cheyenne.
By the evening Monday, I-80 was closed in both directions between Laramie and Rawlins because of crashes and unsafe travel conditions.
Meanwhile, high winds caused I-25 between Cheyenne and the Colorado state line to close because of blow-overs involving big rigs.
Winds were reportedly gusting in excess of 60 miles per hour beginning Monday morning along stretches of both interstates.
The extreme blow-over risk on I-25 extended north from the state line to Douglas Monday. One wind gust in Cheyenne reportedly was clocked at 77 miles per hour before noon yesterday. At Halleck Ridge and Arlington East in Carbon County, winds speeds were clocking at 70 miles per hour around 4 p.m. on Monday. The Wagonhound Rest Area was reportedly full at the time.
By 5 p.m., I-80 was closed between Rawlins and Laramie in both directions because of crashes.
The post Yesterday’s Winds Caused Road Closures In Southern Wyoming first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 7, 2024 |
Photo – Notice on City of Rawlins website – Courtesy City of Rawlins
A water main break in Rawlins Sunday night caused the city to issue a water conservation order. Rawlins public works crews were able to repair the leak by Monday night.
On Sunday evening, workers at the Rawlins water treatment plant noticed that water was flowing to the city’s water storage tanks, but tank levels were not increasing. Public Works Director Cody Dill said his crew shut down the water main feeding the west side of the city until the leak could be found.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095048/0507_Water-Main-Break-1.mp3By 8:00 Monday morning, public works crews had discovered the location of the leak. Two hours later, the pipe was dug up and a high-pressure clamp was applied to the affected portion of the line. Public Works Director Dill said the city avoided another water crisis. Dill said he’ll find out if the repair is sufficient on Tuesday morning.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095051/0507_Water-Main-Break-2.mp3When public works crews dug down to the leak they found a softball sized hole in the line. Dill wasn’t able to pinpoint the exact cause of the hole, but said the age of the pipe likely played a significant role in the leak.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095054/0507_Water-Main-Break-3.mp3Dill said the heavy-duty clamps applied to the leak are designed to last the lifetime of the pipe.
During the April 2nd Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Tom Sarvey said the city’s water infrastructure needs more than $42 million worth of repairs. Sarvey broke down the needs of the water system into two levels of urgency: Priority One and Priority Two.
Speaking to Bigfoot99 Monday evening, Public Works Director Dill said replacing the out-of-date ductile cast iron pipe on the west side of the city is a priority one project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095057/0507_Water-Main-Break-4.mp3Dill said while the water main was shut off, the Painted Hills and hospital tanks contained enough water to avoid a shortage. Just to be safe, Dill said the community was asked to conserve water until the break was fixed. The public works director thanked residents for abiding by the water conservation order.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095059/0507_Water-Main-Break-5.mp3Dill said the leak could have been much worse than a single fist-sized hole. The public works director thanked his crew for repairing the water main as quickly as they did.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095102/0507_Water-Main-Break-6.mp3Monday’s water main break is another symptom of the city’s failing water infrastructure. During the April 16th Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Sarvey recommended raising the standard residential water rate by 80% to pay for essential repairs of the system.
Per the city’s contract with Sinclair, Rawlins must give its neighbor a 30-day notice of any changes to the water rates.
The Rawlins city council is set to vote on the 80% water rate increase during its May 21st regular meeting. The rates are set to go into effect 60 days after being approved.
The post Water Main Break In Rawlins Cause For Conservation Order first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 7, 2024 |
Photo – Cover of Home Alone booklet – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Carbon Country Sheriff’s Office operates a check-in program for home-bound residents. The program began in the late 1980s. The Sheriff’s Office provides a free daily monitoring service for individuals unable to leave their homes due to infirmity or illness. Called the Home Alone Program, Sheriff Alex Bakken said participants receive daily phone checks.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095034/0507_Home-Alone-1.mp3Sheriff Bakken said dispatchers will call Home Alone participants each day. If a call isn’t answered, a deputy will visit the person’s location to perform a welfare check.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095037/0507_Home-Alone-2.mp3When the deputy arrives at the person’s address they will knock on the door. If no one answers, the deputy will call the person’s emergency contact and request permission to break into the residence. Sheriff Bakken said through the Home Alone Program, deputies can provide quick emergency assistance.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095040/0507_Home-Alone-3.mp3The Home Alone Program is free and has no age restriction. Sheriff Bakken said any homebound resident can be part of the program.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095043/0507_Home-Alone-4.mp3To sign up for the Home Alone Program, visit the sheriff’s kiosk in the Carbon Building in Rawlins. Sheriff Bakken said people may sign their loved ones up for the program, with the person’s permission. The sheriff said you can also call his office to place yourself or a loved one on the Home Alone list.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095045/0507_Home-Alone-5.mp3Sheriff Bakken encouraged more people to take part in the Home Alone Program. Participation is free and all information provided to the sheriff’s department remains confidential.
Visit the Carbon Building, located at 215 West Buffalo Street in Rawlins for more information and a sign-up sheet. Or call the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office at 324-2776.
The post Sheriff Explains Department’s Home Alone Program first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 7, 2024 |
Photo – Handgun – Courtesy Outdoor Life
Wyoming joined 21 other states on Monday in a lawsuit against the Biden Administration for attempting to curtail the right of Americans to privately buy and sell firearms.
In the lawsuit, the states argue that the ATF’s regulatory restrictions exceed the authority granted to the agency by Congress and are a violation of the Second Amendment.
“Yet again this administration has demonstrated its contempt for the Constitution and the separation of powers,” Governor Gordon said.
The new federal rule targets private gun sales. The recent rule change would, according to the federal complaint filed by Wyoming and other states, “put innocent firearms sales between law-abiding friends and family members within the reach of federal regulations. Such innocent sales between friends and family would constitute a felony if the seller did not, in fact, obtain a federal firearms license and perform a background check.”
The governors argue that the Biden Administration’s change “upends both our constitutional traditions and the federal firearms licensing regime Congress designed.”
The states argue that the new federal rule is unconstitutional, and the court should set it aside.
The case was filed in the U.S. District Court for the eastern district of Arkansas, Delta Division.
Kansas is serving as the lead plaintiff with Arkansas, Montana, Alabama, Alaska, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming joining.
Attorney General Merrick Garland and the Department of Alcohol, Firearms and Explosives are named as Defendants.
The suit was filed on May 1.
Under the final rule, the complaint maintains that the Biden Administration “would put innocent firearms sales between law-abiding friends and family members within the reach of federal regulation.” The states have asked the Court to vacate the rule as contrary to law.
Governor Gordon noted that “The Biden Administration is exceeding its authority and targeting our Second Amendment rights without going through Congress.”
The lawsuit seeks an injunction prohibiting the Biden Administration from enforcing the Final Rule as unreasonable, arbitrary, and capricious.
Signing the complaint for Wyoming was Bridget Hill, the State Attorney General.
The post Wyoming Joins Other States In Another Lawsuit Against Biden Administration first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 7, 2024 |
Photo – Disc golf – Courtesy wanderglobe.org
An Encampment-based fishing and conservation group is hosting its eighth annual disc golf tournament this summer.
On Saturday, June 8th, Mother Mountain Anglers is putting on the 8th Annual Tale of Two Cities disc golf tournament. Mother Mountain Anglers President Josh Craig described the event.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095008/0507_Disc-Golf-1.mp3Roughly ten years ago, the Riverside town council funded the creation of a disc golf course at Rick Martin Memorial Park. Mother Mountain Anglers created the layout for the course and provided the labor to install nine disc golf baskets at the park.
After constructing the disc golf course in Riverside, Craig petitioned the Encampment town council to allow his organization to install a nine-hole course in Grandview Park, next to the Grand Encampment Museum. Craig said the Tale of Two Cities disc golf tournament was created as a way to promote the two courses and the Platte Valley as a whole.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095013/0507_Disc-Golf-2.mp3Disc golf, like traditional golf, involves reaching the hole, or in this case basket, in as few attempts as possible. The Tale of Two Cities disc golf tournament will follow the same rules as a regular disc golf game, with one exception. After playing the 18 traditional courses located in the Encampment and Riverside parks, Craig said contestants will have to navigate nine specially created holes with additional obstacles, called the Stage Stop.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095018/0507_Disc-Golf-3.mp3Craig said every year, the disc golf tournament typically draws between 50 and 60 players from around the country.
Participation in the Tale of Two Cities disc golf tournament is $50 per player. Craig said participants will also receive additional benefits as part of their registration fee.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095021/0507_Disc-Golf-4.mp3Craig recommended players bring their own discs to the tournament. However, Mother Mountain Anglers will have a few discs available to lend to people who want to try disc golf before investing in their own equipment.
The Tale of Two Cities disc golf tournament is divided into two different divisions based on skill. Craig said prizes will be awarded to the top three players in each division. The Mother Mountain Anglers president also said the worst player of the day will receive a special prize.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095024/0507_Disc-Golf-5.mp3Immediately after the Tale of Two Cities disc golf tournament, Mother Mountain Anglers will host an outdoor concert. Craig invited the entire community to attend the music event.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095027/0507_Disc-Golf-6.mp3Mother Mountain Anglers uses the money raised through its annual disc golf tournament to put on outdoor educational and safety classes throughout the year.
Craig said this Saturday, May 11th, his organization is holding a fundraiser ball to help the Town of Encampment pay for its Fourth of July fireworks display.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095029/0507_Disc-Golf-7.mp3The 2024 Fireworks Ball hosted by Mother Mountain Anglers is this Saturday, May 11th, in the Encampment Opera House. Doors open at 7:00pm. Admission is $10 a person. Craig said his organization is also raffling off a shotgun to support the town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/07095031/0507_Disc-Golf-8.mp3The 8th Annual Tale of Two Cities disc golf tournament is Saturday, June 8th. Registration begins at 8:00am.
To register for the Mother Mountain Anglers disc golf tournament, visit www.discgolfscene.com and search for the 8th Annual Tale of Two Cities, powered by Discraft. As of the writing of this story, online registration hasn’t opened. Craig said players may also register on the morning of the tournament.
We will include a direct link to the Encampment and Riverside disc golf tournament when this story is posted to Bigfoot99.com later today.
Mother Mountain Anglers 8th Annual Tale of Two Cities registration website: https://www.discgolfscene.com/tournaments/8th_Annual_Tale_of_Two_Cities_powered_by_Discraft_2024 (Sorry, link not working, please copy and paste to browser.)
The post Mother Mountain Anglers Prepare For 8th Annual Tale Of Two Cities first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 6, 2024 |
Photo – Tim and Kendra Heward with the sign they made for the clinic – by Matt Copeland of Bigfoot99
The Medicine Bow Health Clinic has received a grant to purchase an ultrasound machine.
On Friday afternoon, Kay Embree and the other members of the Medicine Bow Rural Health Care District board announced that the clinic was awarded a $19,017 grant from the Leone M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.
Speaking at the gathering, Embree said the philanthropic organization gave the Medicine Bow clinic over $19,000 through the Wyoming Ultrasound Revitalization Project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095249/0906_Med-Bow-Clinic-1.mp3Founded in 2008, the Leone M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust uses its $8 billion endowment to create stronger, healthier futures for individuals and communities in the United States.
Using $17,017 of the grant, the Medicine Bow Health Clinic has ordered an Acclarix AX3 Diagnostic Ultrasound machine, several probes, a printer, and a cart. Embree said the clinic has until December to take delivery of the machine.
After announcing the grant, the Medicine Bow Rural Health Care District unveiled a new outdoor sign for the clinic. Created by local rancher Tim Heward, the large, round, metal sign features a white cross in the center with a bow and arrow overlaid on top of the cross. The words Medicine Bow Health Center are cut out around the edge of the sign.
Embree said the Hewards, and other Medicine Bow families, have worked to make the clinic a success since its inception 41 years ago.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095252/0906_Med-Bow-Clinic-2.mp3Embree said the Medicine Bow Health Clinic is funded through local tax payments. She thanked the Board of Carbon County Commissioners for continuing to set money aside to keep the clinic open.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095254/0906_Med-Bow-Clinic-3.mp3Embree also thanked the other members of the Medicine Bow Rural Health Care District board for working so hard to ensure that residents continue to have access to health care in town. The more services that can be provided by the clinic, the less residents will need to brave the potentially dangerous roads.
The Medicine Bow Heath Clinic should receive its new ultrasound machine by the end of this year.
The post Medicine Bow Health Clinic Will Receive A New Ultrasound first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 6, 2024 |
Photo – Autotask Professional Services Automation – Courtesy datto.com
The county commissioners voted last month to adopt a more efficient and cheaper maintenance ticketing system for buildings and grounds and IT.
At the April 16th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Information Technology Director Matt Webster said the maintenance management software currently used by the county, Dude Solutions, was purchased by Brightly Software. Webster said Brightly Software has stopped developing upgrades for Dude Solutions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095225/0506_County-Ticket-System-1.mp3Dude Solutions allows county employees to submit maintenance requests, or tickets, to either the buildings and grounds department or IT.
Webster said the county’s contract with Dude Solutions is set to expire next month. Last year, the county paid nearly $14,000 to subscribe to the maintenance management software. Webster said he doesn’t expect the price to decrease.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095228/0506_County-Ticket-System-2.mp3Webster said he and Buildings and Grounds Manager Jeff Askins looked for a better maintenance management system. The county IT director said they settled on a program called Autotask Professional Services Automation.
Webster said after an initial $3,299.34 set-up fee, Autotask Professional Services Automation will give the county three months of free service. After August 1st, the software will cost $900 a month. The IT director said the county will save over $10,000 this year and nearly $4,000 next year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095230/0506_County-Ticket-System-3.mp3Commissioner John Johnson asked Webster if Autotask will work as well as Dude Solutions. Webster said his new employee, George Wadsworth, used the system in the past and confirmed that the program is easy to use.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095232/0506_County-Ticket-System-4.mp3Webster said Wadsworth can train county employees to use the new maintenance ticketing system. The IT director said Autotask will make submitting a maintenance request easier than Dude Solutions.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095234/0506_County-Ticket-System-5.mp3Before the vote, Commissioner Travis Moore asked Webster why Brightly Software chose to stop supporting Dude Solutions. The IT director said since purchasing Dude Solutions in 2022, Brightly Software has been attempting to force users to subscribe to a single, more costly, system.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095237/0506_County-Ticket-System-6.mp3The board authorized Webster to switch the county’s maintenance ticketing system from Dude Solutions to Autotask Professional Services Automation. The move will save the county thousands of dollars a year.
The post County IT Department Finds New Service Automation Program first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 6, 2024 |
Photo – High winds blow over a semi truck – Courtesy cdllife.com
Residents of southern Wyoming and visitors traveling through Carbon County are advised that weather conditions will be very windy today with possible snow that could make road conditions dangerous at times today.
The National Weather Service advises that westerly winds of 35 to 45 miles per hour are possible across southern Wyoming. Wind speeds around Cooper Cove and Halleck Ridge on the eastern side of Carbon County were reportedly blowing in excess of 60 miles per hour around 9:00 a.m. Monday morning. The winds will impact much of southeast Wyoming along and east of the Laramie Range, including Cheyenne and Laramie along with Wheatland and Douglas on the I-25 corridor.
According to the National Weather Service in Cheyenne, the primary impact of this weather event will be on travel. Strong cross winds will be hazardous to both light-weight and high-profile vehicles, including campers and tractor trailers, which will be susceptible to blowing over, especially on north-south roadways.
Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 MPH with gusts to 60 miles per hour can be expected today.
The post Today Is Not A Good Day For Travel On I-80 In Carbon County first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 6, 2024 |
Photo – Photo of an area in Carbon County – Bigfoot99 file photo by Matt Copeland
The Carbon County Visitor’s Council is holding another photo contest.
Do you have the perfect picture of Carbon County? Enter your photograph in the 2024 Discover Carbon County, Wyoming Photography Contest for a chance to win a cash prize.
Carbon County Visitor’s Council Chief Executive Officer Leslie Jefferson said the photo contest is a great opportunity for residents to show off their pictures of the county. Jefferson said pictures can be of anything, just as long as they were taken in Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095239/0506_Photo-Contest-1.mp3The contest runs until September 3rd. After that date, Jefferson said the ten-member Carbon County Visitor’s Council board will choose their favorite pictures. The top three photographers will receive cash prizes.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095242/0506_Photo-Contest-2.mp3Photo contest entries are assigned a number before judging. The visitor’s council board members will not know the identity of the photographers until after judging is complete.
Jefferson said pictures submitted during the contest have a chance of being used in brochures and other materials promoting Carbon County. Contest entries, both past and present, can also be viewed online.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095244/0506_Photo-Contest-3.mp3Jefferson asked that all photo contest entries contain a brief description of where the picture was taken. The visitor’s council CEO said exact coordinates are appreciated, but not necessary.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/06095246/0506_Photo-Contest-4.mp3Jefferson said only the first picture submitted from each photographer will be accepted for judging.
For more information or to submit a picture to the 2024 photo contest, visit the Carbon County Visitor’s Council website and click on Things to Do. A direct link to the photo contest website will be included with this story when it is posted to Bigfoot99.com later today.
The deadline for the 2024 Discover Carbon County, Wyoming Photography Contest is Tuesday, September 3rd.
2024 Discover Carbon County, Wyoming Photography Contest entry and information: https://www.wyomingcarboncounty.com/blog/144-photo-contest-accepting-entries
Link does not work, please copy and paste to browser. Sorry for the inconvenience.
The post Prize Winning Photo Of Carbon County Will Win Cash first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 3, 2024 |
Photo – College campus protest – Courtesy Fox News
Wyoming Senior Senator John Barrasso is among 35 Republicans in the upper body of Congress and others in the House who are moving to head President Joe Biden from resettling Palestinians in American communities.
“Pro-Hamas lunatics have taken over college campuses,” Rep. Andrew Clyde of Georgia said this week. “And Joe Biden’s response is to consider ‘welcoming refugees from Gaza’? Absolute disgrace,” Rep. Clyde said.
CBS News reported this week that according to internal federal government documents it had obtained, senior federal officials have considered plans to resettle Palestinian refugees in the U.S. as the war between Israel and Hamas nears seven months. Although, the White House plans are not fully vetted. The Palestinian refugees would have to meet stringent qualifications. Members of the senate, including Wyoming’s John Barrasso are drawing a hard line against any plan.
In a letter to the president dated May 1, 2024, the senators state, “We are not confident that your administration can adequately vet this high-risk population for terrorist ties and sympathies before admitting them into the United States.”
According to the senator in their letter, one White House proposal involves resettling Gazans who have already made it out of the Gaza Strip and entered Egypt, a country that has publicly stated that it does not want the refugees. The plan seeks to pull Gazans out of the Strip and directly into the United States.
In their letter to the President, the senators note that U.S. and allied officials “have very little access to Gazans living in the area, making it nearly impossible to conduct thorough vetting before admitting them into our country.”
The senators go onto demand answers from the White House on a series of questions, including the number of Gazans that President Bide wants to accept into the United States, and how will the Administration implement a screening process to weed out those with terrorist links or sympathies. The senators also request that the White House identify the proposed locations in the U.S. for the resettlement communities.
Senator Barrasso’s signature is the fourth name listed on the letter, immediately below Sen. Mitch McConnell’s. Also signing the letter is Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis.
Carrying out any plan to resettle Gazans as refugees would mark a shift in US government policy, which has not traditionally assisted Palestinians in large numbers.
Over the last two weeks of campus unrest across the nation, nearly 2,200 arrests have occurred in pro-Hamas/anti-Israel unrest on college campuses, according to media reports on Friday.
The post Thirty Five Republicans In Congress Aim To Stop Biden Admin From Resettling Palestinians first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 3, 2024 |
Photo – Dispatch image – Courtesy istockphoto.com
Faulty law enforcement reports about an incident involving a suspect with a gun in Hanna caused the elementary school to issue a lock out this week. The report turned out to be false.
Around noon on Wednesday afternoon, Hanna Elementary School received a call from a concerned resident saying that a possible active shooter was in town. The resident said that a friend in Rawlins had overheard a report on the police scanner of an active shooter near the school.
After the call, school officials instituted a lock out, meaning that no one was allowed in or out of the building. Principal Jackie Jones called the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office to report the potential situation.
The Hanna Elementary School remained on lock out status for roughly an hour on Wednesday, from around noon to 1:00pm.
Sheriff Alex Bakken informed Bigfoot99 on Thursday an active shooter was never involved. The sheriff said Rawlins Police dispatchers transferred an emergency call to the sheriff’s department and important information was lost. The sheriff said the situation never presented any danger to residents.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133810/0503_Hanna-Incident-1.mp3Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward said his dispatchers did not transfer any calls to the sheriff’s department on Wednesday afternoon. Chief Ward said the civil disturbance call was sent to Wyoming Highway Patrol because the caller was traveling on Interstate 80.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133813/0503_Hanna-Incident-2.mp3Bigfoot99 reached out to Sheriff Bakken for clarification about the transfer. As of the writing of this story, the sheriff has not returned our reporter’s call. While speaking to Bigfoot99 early yesterday morning, Sheriff Bakken said he was not personally involved in Wednesday’s incident and was simply relaying information received from his deputies.
No matter who took the call, it is clear that initial reports of an active shooter in Hanna were incorrect.
The post Initial Law Enforcement Report Differs From Actual Outcome first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 3, 2024 |
Photo – Wind farm – Bigfoot99 file photo
Representatives from PacifiCorp recently updated the county board of commissioners on wind turbine projects in the area.
During the April 16th Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Rocky Mountain Power Director of Project Delivery Brandon Smith provided the board with an update on transmission line projects in the county. Rocky Mountain Power is the local subsidiary of PacifiCorp.
After Smith finished his presentation, PacifiCorp Director of Wind Operations Laine Anderson updated the commissioners about wind turbine projects in and around the county. Anderson said two new turbine farms are being constructed on the border between Carbon and Albany Counties. The director of wind operations said the first project should be finished by the end of this year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133748/0503_County-Wind-Projects-1.mp3Anderson said equipment should be arriving on site now. The director of wind operations said when both Rock Creek projects are completed, they will have a combined total of 98 wind turbines.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133751/0503_County-Wind-Projects-2.mp3Anderson said most of the Rock Creek turbines will be located within Albany County, with only about 10 being built in Carbon County.
Anderson said PacifiCorp is almost done replacing equipment at the Foote Creek North wind farm, located near McFadden. The director of wind operations said work should be finished in two months.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133754/0503_County-Wind-Projects-3.mp3Anderson said construction should begin soon on 19 wind turbines being built near Rock River. When the project is completed, Anderson said the site will generate 50 megawatts of electricity.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133756/0503_County-Wind-Projects-4.mp3Anderson said the Rock River One turbines are expected to be installed by this December.
The PacifiCorp director of wind operations said the local wind turbine construction projects have generated nearly $4 million in state taxes and impact fees.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133759/0503_County-Wind-Projects-5.mp3Residents living near wind farms have complained about the red aircraft warning lights on top of the turbines. County commissioners asked PacifiCorp to install a system that only turns on the lights if an airplane is detected nearby. Director of Wind Operations Anderson said the automated systems have been installed at the wind farms outside of Medicine Bow.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133802/0503_County-Wind-Projects-6.mp3Commissioner John Johnson asked Anderson what happens to outdated turbine parts. Anderson said PacifiCorp hires a 3rd party company to recycle the unused equipment.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133805/0503_County-Wind-Projects-7.mp3Commissioner Garrett Irene asked Anderson what his company does with old wind turbine blades. Because they are made of a composite material, wind turbine blades are difficult to recycle. Anderson said all recently installed blades will be recycled in some way.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133807/0503_County-Wind-Projects-8.mp3Anderson said PacifiCorp has been having trouble finding a reliable recycling company capable of disposing of the large numbers of blades expected to be generated in the future.
In a related story, Rocky Mountain Power has announced a series of meetings to be held around Wyoming this month to explain rate increases the utility company wants to put into place this year.
RMP advised this week that the company will seek an overall increase of 16.5% this year, which would amount to at least $12 month for every household.
The meeting in Rawlins is set for Wednesday, May 15 at the Econolodge on East Cedar Street.
The post Pacificorp Explains Wind Turbine Projects In County first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 3, 2024 |
Photo – Mild and Wild Car Show flyer- Courtesy Medicine Bow Rec Department
The newly revived Medicine Bow Recreation Board is planning a car show this summer.
On Saturday, July 27th, the Medicine Bow Recreation Board is hosting the first annual Mild to Wild Car Show.
Rec board member Casey Federer said she and her fiancé, Charles Hall, came up with the idea to sponsor a car show. Federer said the name, Mild to Wild, was Hall’s idea.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133816/0503_Med-Bow-Car-Show-1.mp3Federer said the Mild to Wild car show will be divided into five different classes: Antique and Classic for cars built before 1975, Muscle and Street Rods, an open Street Cruiser class, Motorcycles, and Trucks. Federer said the Motorcycle and Truck classes leave room for other types of vehicles.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133818/0503_Med-Bow-Car-Show-2.mp3The winner of each class will receive a plaque. An overall Best in Show trophy will be awarded to the people’s choice winner. Federer said the Medicine Bow Rec Board isn’t able to offer cash prizes for this year’s event.
Federer and the other rec board members are trying to spread the word about the Mild to Wild car show. Federer said the rec board members will distribute flyers around the area.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133821/0503_Med-Bow-Car-Show-3.mp3While attending the event is free, showing a car isn’t. Display fees depend on when you register. Federer said the event flyer contains all the pricing information.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133825/0503_Med-Bow-Car-Show-4.mp3Federer said Mild to Wild car show branded shirts will be available to purchase during the event. The rec board member said the custom embroidered shirts were created by Cowboy Couture, in Saratoga.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133827/0503_Med-Bow-Car-Show-5.mp3Money raised from the car show will help pay for future Medicine Bow Recreation Board events, such as the Halloween haunted house. Federer said the rec board is already planning a bigger and better October event.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/03133830/0503_Med-Bow-Car-Show-6.mp3The first annual Medicine Bow Recreation Board Mild to Wild car show will be on Saturday, July 27th, at the Medicine Bow Town Park, located on Cottonwood Street. Registration instructions and pricing can be found on the Mild to Wild car show flyer. A copy of the flyer will be included with this story when it is posted to Bigfoot99.com later today.
The post Car Show This Summer In Medicine Bow first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 2, 2024 |
Photo – Allen Robinson of Rawlins Fire Department – Courtesy City of Rawlins
In Rawlins, officials on Wednesday announced that Allen Robinson has been named Fire Chief for the city.
Robinson is originally from a four-generation ranching family in Uinta County. He has served in the Rawlins Fire Department since 1999.
According to his bio, Robinson moved to Rawlins in 1991 while working for Ricoh. He began volunteering for the Volunteer Fire Department in 1999 and joined as a full-time Fire Engineer in 2001. Robinson was promoted to Shift Captain in 2007 and Battalion Chief in 2019. Robinson is also active in the first-responder community throughout the State.
Robinson is married to Karianne Robinson and is the proud father of four.
Robinson said, “I have been part of the Rawlins community for a long time now and will strive to continue to provide high-quality service to anyone in need.”
The post Rawlins Officials Select New Fire Chief first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 2, 2024 |
Photo – Access Coordinator Jon Desonier and Faith Edwards pose with her fish – Courtesy WY Game and Fish Department
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has a new Access Yes Coordinator for the Lander region.
Jon Desonier (De-SONe-yeah ) is now the Lander Region Access Yes Coordinator for Wyoming Game and Fish. Desonier serves all of Teton County, most of Fremont County, and part of Carbon County, specifically Rawlins and areas north of the city.
According to the Wyoming Game and Fish website, the Access Yes program began in the 1990’s, and since that time the program has provided hunting access to over 2.6 million acres of private land. Eighteen percent of antelope hunters, 17% of deer hunters, and 13% of elk hunters surveyed during the 2022 hunting season say they used land set aside through the Access Yes program.
As an Access Yes Coordinator, Desonier works to convince private landowners to allow limited hunting on their land.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101659/0502_Fish-Access-1.mp3Through the Access Yes program, private landowners can choose to create either a Walk-In or Hunter Management Area. Desonier said hunters may freely access a Walk-In Area as long as they follow the rules set by the landowner. However, a Hunter Management Area allows the property owner to set stricter regulations on when hunters may access their land.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101702/0502_Fish-Access-2.mp3Desonier said while Walk-In Areas have looser regulations than Hunter Management Areas, hunters must still abide by the landowner’s wishes. The Access Yes Coordinator said people are not legally permitted onto the property to do anything other than hunt.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101704/0502_Fish-Access-3.mp3Desonier said landowners who participate in the Access Yes program have full control over how their property is used. The Access Yes Coordinator said property owners can set restrictions on what types of animals can be taken on their land and when.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101707/0502_Fish-Access-4.mp3Desonier said as an Access Yes Coordinator, he typically approaches property owners about submitting their land for the program. After getting the ok, Desonier said he’ll work with the landowner to define the limits of access.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101709/0502_Fish-Access-5.mp3In exchange for allowing hunters onto their property, landowners are given a small monetary payment based on the number of acres they set aside through the Access Yes program. Desonier said he will also ensure hunters are complying with landowner wishes and advertise the property on the Game and Fish website.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101711/0502_Fish-Access-6.mp3Wyoming Game and Fish Lander Region Information Specialist Rene Schell said landowners who choose to set property aside for a Hunter Management Area don’t have to personally manage the hunters who come on their land. Schell said the Access Yes program takes care of all administrative services.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101713/0502_Fish-Access-7.mp3Desonier said not every property qualifies for the Access Yes program. The coordinator said he’ll contact local biologists to ensure the land is suitable for hunting and fishing purposes.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101715/0502_Fish-Access-8.mp3Desonier said the Access Yes program is funded through conservation stamp sales, donations, and court-mandated restitution payments.
Desonier encouraged anyone with questions about the Access Yes program to call him at 463-7861.
The post WY Game and Fish Has New Access Yes Coordinator first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 2, 2024 |
Photo – Washington Park in Rawlins – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins city government must find ways to reduce the money spent on buildings and grounds, according to City Manager Tom Sarvey.
On April 18th, the Rawlins city council met with Sarvey to review the preliminary draft of the 2024-25 budget. During the meeting, Sarvey presented the council with a profit and loss statement for the Rawlins Family Recreation Center and Rochelle Ranch Golf Course. Sarvey said in the upcoming fiscal year, the city is projected to spend $1,469,728 to keep the rec center and golf course operational.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101718/0502_Rawlins-Budget-1.mp3Two days earlier, at the April 16th regular city council meeting, the Rawlins government approved a 10% increase to all fees at the golf course. Back at the April 18th meeting, City Manager Sarvey said even with the rate hikes, the golf course is still set to lose $500,000 a year.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101720/0502_Rawlins-Budget-2.mp3Sarvey said his preliminary budget sets aside $539,210 to maintain the nine parks and recreation facilities, including Bolton Park and the splash pad at Depot Park. Mayor Terry Weickum asked Sarvey for ways to reduce the parks and green spaces budget. The city manager suggested the council speak with department heads to find way to spend less money on supplies.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101723/0502_Rawlins-Budget-3.mp3Sarvey said Rawlins spends twice as much money on building maintenance as other similarly sized cities in the state. The city manager said Community Development Director Lou Lascano told him that even with the large budget, he is still having trouble maintaining the city-owned structures. Sarvey said Rawlins spends so much on maintenance because the city owns more buildings than other municipalities.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101725/0502_Rawlins-Budget-4.mp3Sarvey suggested the city eventually build a larger facility to house all the departments. The city manager said relocating everything under one roof will save the city considerable amounts of money.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101727/0502_Rawlins-Budget-5.mp3Mayor Weickum said he expects the city to receive a substantial amount of impact assistance and tax money from a proposed wind farm. The mayor said the one-time money can be used to construct a building to house all the city infrastructure.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101729/0502_Rawlins-Budget-6.mp3In the meantime, Sarvey said the city must find a way to reduce the amount of money it spends on park upkeep. The city manager said the parks are too expensive to maintain in their current state.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101732/0502_Rawlins-Budget-7.mp3Mayor Weickum said grant money is often used to build the facilities, but that same money can’t be used for operation and maintenance costs. The mayor said Rawlins isn’t the only municipality struggling to pay for expensive amenities.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101735/0502_Rawlins-Budget-8.mp3On April 20th, the Rawlins city council met with department heads to create a balanced budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
The new budget will be read for the first time during a special meeting on May 15th. Legally, the budget must be read three times at three different public meetings before it can be adopted.
The post Rawlins Officials Look At Saving Money This Budget Session first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 2, 2024 |
Photo – A springtime display in Encampment – Courtesy Dirt Diggers Club
The Encampment gardening club is beginning a free plant exchange program.
Formed in 1933, the Encampment Dirt Diggers Garden Club currently has 41 members. Starting today, the gardening club is providing a way for residents to exchange their houseplants, called Bring a Plant, Take a Plant.
Dirt Diggers member Liz Davis said club members typically exchange plants with one another. Davis said the members decided to share the joy of plants with the entire community. If residents support Bring a Plant, Take a Plant, Davis said the Dirt Diggers Garden Club will keep the program running indefinitely.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101651/0502_Dirt-Diggers-1.mp3Today is the first day of the plant exchange. Residents will find a selection of more than 50 easy to maintain indoor plants at the Encampment town hall and library. Davis said people are welcome to leave an outdoor plant in exchange for a houseplant.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101654/0502_Dirt-Diggers-2.mp3Davis said the majority of plants offered in today’s Bring a Plant, Take a Plant program were grown by the most gifted horticulturists of the Dirt Diggers.
Encampment officials have allowed the gardening club to use the town hall for the plant exchange program. Davis said residents may freely access the town hall at any time.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101656/0502_Dirt-Diggers-3.mp3Like the town hall, the Encampment and Riverside Library is also participating in the Dig Diggers plant exchange. Davis said residents will only be able to trade plants during regular library hours.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/02101658/0502_Dirt-Diggers-4.mp3The Encampment Dirt Diggers Garden Club’s Bring a Plant, Take a Plant program begins today at noon. Davis asked that exchange plants be healthy enough for other community members to enjoy. Residents may exchange as many plants as they like free of charge.
The post New Plant Exchange Program Starts In Encampment first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 2, 2024 |
Photo – Top left Ayir Asante, top right Easton Gibbs, bottom left Treyton Welch, bottom right Frank Crum – Courtesy gowyo.com
Four former Wyoming Cowboy football players signed as Undrafted Free Agents immediately following the NFL Draft on Saturday evening. Wide receiver Ayir Asante signed with the New York Giants, offensive tackle Frank Crum with the Denver Broncos, linebacker Easton Gibbs with the Seattle Seahawks and tight end Treyton Welch with the Cleveland Browns.
Over the next few days NFL teams will add undrafted signees along with extending invitations to rookie mini-camps, as other Cowboys will look to crack NFL rosters for next season.
The post Four Cowboys Sign As Undrafted Free Agents first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 1, 2024 |
Photo – Cover of the 2019 Special Purpose Tax document – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The Rawlins City Council said that 6th Penny Tax projects aren’t getting done because of COVID-related inflation.
In 2019, Carbon County voters authorized the creation of a 6th Penny Special Purpose Tax. The measure added an extra 1% to the county sales tax to be used for specific capital improvement projects around the county. In Rawlins, the 6th Penny Tax was earmarked for 10 projects, including rebuilding Airport Road and Walnut, Edinburg, and Washington Streets as well as making improvements to sidewalk access along Harshman Street. Money from the tax was also set aside to build a new water pipeline and storage facility at the Rawlins cemetery.
During the April 16th Rawlins city council meeting, Councilman Chris Weisenburg said residents have complained that 6th Penny projects are not being completed. Councilman Weisenburg said the funds have not been misused. The councilman said the prior administration opted not to bond every 6th Penny project at once. Because of the delay, Weisenburg said COVID caused the price of construction materials to skyrocket.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01111429/0501_Tax-Projects-1.mp3Bonding ensures a construction project will be completed according to the terms of the contract. After the 6th Penny Special Purpose Tax was approved, municipalities didn’t receive all the money at once, causing some projects to be given higher priority than others. When a town issues bonds, it incurs interest payments over time, meaning bonding of lower priority projects was pushed back until the municipality collected more of the 6th Penny money.
The City of Rawlins asked for $12.1 million to complete the 10 voter-approved 6th Penny projects. So far, the city has only completed one: reconstructing a section of Walnut Street from 3rd to 7th Street, including water and sanitary sewer improvements. The Walnut Street project was finished in 2021 and cost a total of $1.855 million.
Two other 6th Penny projects are also in the works. The city is currently performing a study on Edinburgh Street to determine the cost to rebuild the road from Dunphail to Murray Street, including replacing underground utilities and improving the storm sewers.
After the study is completed, the city can determine if enough 6th Penny Tax money has been collected to begin construction. Documents provided by the city indicate that the current estimate for the entire Edinburgh Street project is over $5 million.
The city is also looking at constructing a raw water line from the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course to the city cemetery. Using untreated water at the cemetery will save the city approximately $370,000 a year. The project turned out to not to be as simple as city officials originally expected. The city stated that the project is expected to cost $4 million, double the original estimate.
As of March 29th, the current balance of the 6th Penny Fund sits at around $4.4 million. According to the city, it is likely that not all ten projects will be funded through the originally requested $12.1 million, because inflation costs are outpacing tax revenue.
As cost estimates are completed, the city council will decide which of the remaining nine 6th Penny Tax projects will be funded and which ones will need to wait.
The post Rawlins Officials Talk About 6th Penny Tax Projects first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 1, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga’s outdoor pool entrance – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
The Saratoga Recreation Department is preparing to open the town’s public swimming pool on June 3rd.
The town of Saratoga has an outdoor swimming pool located near the Hobo Hot Springs. Every summer, the town opens the pool to the public for a fee. As spring progresses, the town’s public works department is making sure the pool is ready to open as soon as the weather warms up.
At the April 16th Saratoga town council meeting, Recreation Director Kim Hemenway said work at town’s outdoor public swimming pool should begin next week. On top of standard maintenance required from being shut down for the winter, Hemenway said the pool will receive lighting upgrades.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01111432/0501_Toga-Pool-1.mp3Hemenway said she has scheduled lifeguard training at the pool on June 1st and 2nd. The recreation director mentioned having three returning staff members and said she is looking for more.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01111435/0501_Toga-Pool-2.mp3Hemenway then asked the council to approve the purchase of two steel epoxy-coated heavy-duty outdoor tables from Amazon.com. Hemenway said the tables aren’t cheap, at roughly $1,000 each, but their solid construction means the tables will likely last a long time.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01111437/0501_Toga-Pool-3.mp3The round tables come with umbrellas and three built-in benches.
Hemenway said the recreation department has the $2,000 needed to pay for the tables in its budget. She said the wooden tables currently at the pool require a lot of maintenance.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01111439/0501_Toga-Pool-4.mp3The Saratoga town council voted to allow Hemenway to purchase the two new tables.
Hemenway said, weather permitting, she expects the pool to open on Monday, June 3rd.
The post Recreation Department Prepares To Open Saratoga Pool first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 1, 2024 |
Photo – Corrosive effect of chlorine treatment – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Hanna town council agrees to pay $38,000 to fix the town’s water treatment plant.
Earlier this year, at the January 9th Hanna town council meeting, Mayor Jon Ostling said the chlorine storage room at the town’s water treatment plant needs repairs. Mayor Ostling said Craig Kopasz from Engineering Associates in Saratoga will provide the town with an estimated cost to fix the crumbling concrete in the chlorine room.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01111421/0501_Hanna-Water-Treatment-1.mp3Chlorine is commonly used in water treatment plants to kill harmful bacteria and pathogens present in the water. However, chlorine gas is corrosive and can eat away at surfaces, pipes, and other equipment. In Hanna, the chemical has severely corroded the concrete walls in the town’s water treatment plant chlorine room.
Three months later, at the April 9th Hanna town council meeting, Mayor Ostling said the town received a cost estimate from Westco Construction and Services totaling $37,990 to repair the chlorine room.
Hanna Town Councilman Sam Sikes asked where the money will come from. Town Treasurer Ann Calvert said the water treatment plant budget will cover the cost of repairs. Calvert suggested the town act fast to lock in the cost estimate.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01111423/0501_Hanna-Water-Treatment-2.mp3Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales said replacement parts are expected to arrive in town within a month. Mayor Ostling said the job should only take a single day to complete. Clerk Gonzales said the repairs should be finished before summer lawn watering and irrigation puts additional strain on the water treatment plant.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01111426/0501_Hanna-Water-Treatment-3.mp3The Hanna town council voted to pay Westco Construction and Services $37,990 to repair the chlorine room at the town’s water treatment plant.
The post Hanna Town Council Agrees To Repairs At Water Treatment first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 1, 2024 |
Photo – Rocky Mountain Power logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
Ahead of planned rate hikes for its customers, Rocky Mountain Power has announced a series of meetings to be held around Wyoming this month to explain the increases.
Customers in the Cowboy State could see rate increases of $12 per month on their electricity bills.
In a news release, the utility blames Biden-era inflation, rising insurance costs and the infrastructure improvements in wind generation to deliver power to its customers in Washington State. Although much of the electricity for the Pacific Northwest is generated here in Carbon County, Wyoming, electricity users here will not benefit from it. Wyoming only will see the price increases from the increased costs Rocky Mountain Power paid to build the system.
RMP advises that its Wyoming customers could see an overall increase of 16.5% this year.
According to the utility company’s own numbers, a typical residential household which uses 700 kilowatt hours each month will see a $12 rate increase.
Rocky Mountain Power also blames the loss of a 4.2 % federal tax credit instituted by the Donald Trump Administration with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is set to expire in July. President Biden has not extended the tax credit. The utility wants to pass on the nearly $30 million cost to its utility customers.
In total, Wyoming customers could see their electricity bill from Rocky Mountain Power increase by 16.5% this year.
The meeting in Rawlins to discuss the increases will be held on Wednesday, May 15 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Econolodge on E. Cedar Street.
Other meetings will be held this month in Casper, Laramie, Riverton, Rock Springs, and Cody.
Rocky Mountain Power is a division of Warren Buffet’s PacifiCorp. The company says it underestimated costs of coal and natural gas to fuel its power plants and to buy electricity on the open market. The company is hitting Wyoming rate payers to make up the difference between actual costs and its inaccurate forecasting.
The increase ultimately is dependent on Wyoming regulators with ratepayers in the state on the hook for the monthly increase.
This may not be the only increase Wyoming customers have to pay. In addition to loss of landscape to the company’s wind turbines to deliver electricity to Washington State, Rocky Mountain Power may be back for another increase later this year, although the company has not spoken publicly about the proposal.
Last October, state regulatory authorities approved an 8.3% general rate increase rather than the 21.6% increase Rocky Mountain Power had requested of its Wyoming customers.
Rocky Mountain Power then sought to add $32 million in additional charges, which the Wyoming Public Service Commission rejected.
Now the company is back for more money. Nothing in state law prevents the utility company from coming back with more proposed rate hikes like it is now.
The meeting in Rawlins is set for May 15 at the Econolodge from 4 to 7 p.m.
The post Rocky Mountain Power To Hold Public Meetings To Discuss Rate Increases first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
May 1, 2024 |
Photo – Payton Muma in her Gonzaga uniform – Courtesy x.com
You remember Chad Muma. As a junior at the University of Wyoming, Muma led the Cowboys with 17 tackles, eight for losses and three sacks. He’s the linebacker for the Jacksonville Jaguars, but this story is not about him.
His sister, Payton Muma is transferring to UW to play basketball after three years with Gonzaga. Wyoming Cowgirl Women’s Basketball Head Coach Heather Ezell made the announcement on Tuesday.
After three seasons at Gonzaga, Muma is transferring to Laramie. The Colorado native played in 33 games the last two seasons after redshirting in 2021-22. In 2022-23, Muma appeared in 30 contests and averaged 1.4 points per game while averaging just under one assist per contest. Muma appeared in three games this season.
A two-time Colorado 5A All-State selection, Muma helped lead Highlands Ranch High School to three consecutive Final Four trips at the state tournament. In her final season at HRHS, Muma averaged 19.2 points, 5.8 assists and 3.6 steals per game. According to Prep Girl Hoops, Muma was the No. 2 ranked player in the state of Colorado in the 2021 recruiting class.
Muma’s parents, Ty and Kara both attended UW, as did her grandfather, Rick Desmarais and her brother, Chad. Ty and Rick both played football for the Cowboys, while Chad was an All-Mountain West linebacker for the Pokes, as well.
The post Transfer From Gonzaga To Play For Cowgirls first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 30, 2024 |
Photo – Saratoga PD Dispatcher hire information – Courtesy SPD
The Saratoga Police Department is looking to hire two new emergency dispatchers.
The Saratoga dispatch center fields emergency calls for both the town and Encampment. Last November, a shortage of dispatchers caused Police Chief Mike Morris to enact a Memorandum of Understanding with the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office. The MOU had sheriff’s department dispatchers operate out of the Saratoga call center in exchange for payment from the town. Having the additional county employees allowed Saratoga to continue providing 24-hour dispatching coverage for the entire Platte Valley.
Yesterday, the Saratoga Police Department announced the opening of one full-time and one part-time position in its dispatch center. Starting pay is listed at $17 an hour, depending on experience.
Qualified applicants should be high school graduates 18 years or older with no felonies. You must be willing to work either day, evening, or night shifts. Prior dispatching experience isn’t necessary.
Candidates must remain calm and courteous while taking potentially stressful emergency calls. They must also have good typing and data entry skills as well as the ability to multitask. Dependable attendance is also required.
Saratoga Police Dispatchers are provided with health and dental insurance for their entire family. The town will pay all out-of-pocket medical expenses. Dispatchers also receive paid vacation, sick, holiday, and training time. Dispatchers also qualify for retirement after 20 years of service.
Applications can be picked up at the Saratoga Police Station, located at 110 East Spring Street. A QR code with a link to the dispatcher application will also be provided with this story when it is posted to the Bigfoot99 website later today.
It is unclear how long Saratoga will need its own in-house dispatchers. After the town’s MOU with the sheriff’s department expired, Sheriff Alex Bakken began investigating the possibility of combining the Saratoga and county emergency call centers into one entity.
Saratoga officials will hold a public hearing on Monday, May 13th to inform residents of why the town is considering a combined dispatch center with the sheriff’s department and discuss the pros and cons of the project.
The public workshop for dispatch services is on Monday, May 13th at 5:30pm in the Platte Valley Community Center in Saratoga.
The post Saratoga Police Looking For Dispatchers first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 30, 2024 |
Photo – WEBT logo – Courtesy webt.org
In Rawlins, city officials are considering changing city employee health insurance plans.
On April 18th, the Rawlins city council and City Manager Tom Sarvey met to review the preliminary budget for fiscal year 2024 through 2025. Sarvey and the council discussed a potentially better method to provide city employees with health insurance.
City Manager Sarvey said currently, the city of Rawlins covers all employee medical costs. City workers pay their health insurance premiums directly into a 3rd party managed fund. In a self-funded health care system, the city is responsible for paying the entirety of medical claims, said Sarvey.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101826/0430_Rawlins-Health-Insurance-1.mp3Sarvey said he monitors the claim payment fund to ensure the city isn’t putting out more money than it collects from premiums. The city manager said in the past, the fund always contained enough money to pay the medical expenses of employees. However, Sarvey said in the past fiscal year, the fund was $177,000 short.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101829/0430_Rawlins-Health-Insurance-2.mp3Sarvey said he decided to seek out an alternative health insurance program. The city manager said he received a quote from the Wyoming Educators Benefit Trust, or WEBT. Sarvey said using WEBT to cover all 106 city employees will save roughly $334,000 over the current, self-funded, system.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101831/0430_Rawlins-Health-Insurance-3.mp3According to the Wyoming Educators Benefit Trust website, WEBT was created in 1971 to pool the health benefits risk of public educational entities, cities, counties, special districts, and publicly funded employers.
Through the city’s current system, single employees must pay a $1,000 deductible for in-network coverage and $2,000 for out-of-network. WEBT offers three plans with differing deductibles: $1,500, $2,500, and $3,500. Sarvey said while the deductibles are higher with WEBT, out-of-pocket expenses are lower.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101833/0430_Rawlins-Health-Insurance-4.mp3Sarvey said employees who don’t hit the out-of-pocket limit benefit from the lower deductible of the current system. However, workers who do pay out-of-pocket would see significant savings using the Wyoming Educators Benefit Trust. Sarvey said the council must decide if a lower deductible is better than lower out-of-pocket expenses.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101836/0430_Rawlins-Health-Insurance-5.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum said employees would need to be able to tell the future to know which plan will benefit them more.
Councilman Darril Garner asked if the money saved by using WEBT could be used to help offset the increased deductible amounts. City Manager Sarvey instead proposed using the $334,000 savings to pay the entire cost to insure the employees who choose the $2,500 and $3,500 deductible plans. Additionally, Sarvey said the city could set up a health savings account, or HSA, for workers who select the highest deductible plan.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101839/0430_Rawlins-Health-Insurance-6.mp3A health savings account can be used to cover the cost of expensive medical care for employees who select the higher deductible health plan.
Sarvey said city workers will need to financially contribute towards the $1,500 deductible plan. Single employees will have to pay $31 a month towards WEBT insurance coverage, while a family plan will cost $199 a month.
Sarvey said he will meet with the city’s health insurance committee to further discuss the potential move to the Wyoming Educators Benefit Trust and bring a recommendation to the council at a later date.
The post Health Insurance Topic For Discussion At City Of Rawlins first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 30, 2024 |
Photo – A stovetop natural gas burner – Courtesy NMPP Energy
The town of Medicine Bow chose Wyoming Community Gas to supply the town with natural gas.
Wyoming Community Gas is a not-for-profit consortium of municipalities that provides natural gas services to towns. Each year, the gas provider reinvests a portion of its revenue back into the enrolled communities, supporting projects that enhance the quality of life for residents.
During the April 8th Medicine Bow town council meeting, Public Works Director Brian Lashley said it was time for the town to choose a natural gas supplier. Lashley provided the council with quotes from 10 different gas companies, most of which were charging over 40 cents per therm. One therm represents approximately 100 cubic feet of natural gas at standard temperature and pressure.
Lashley said the town’s current gas provider, Black Hills Energy doesn’t charge by therm, like the other companies. However, the public works director said his calculations show that their rates varied significantly over the past year and a half.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101810/0430_Med-Bow-Gas-1.mp3Lashley said Wyoming Community Gas offers a set rate depending on the length of the contract. The public works director said the natural gas provider will also give the town credit on each of their five gas accounts.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101814/0430_Med-Bow-Gas-2.mp3Lashley suggested the town contract with Wyoming Community Gas for at least one year. On top of offering lower prices, Lashley said the natural gas supplier provides member towns with yearly grants. The public works director said he was told a previous town administration opted not to join the Wyoming Community Gas joint powers board.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101817/0430_Med-Bow-Gas-3.mp3Lashley said a Wyoming Community Gas representative will provide him with the necessary documents to become a member of the joint powers board. The public works director said the town will need to pay one dollar per resident to be part of the gas consortium. Last year, the town missed out on a $3,500 grant, said Lashley.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101820/0430_Med-Bow-Gas-4.mp3Medicine Bow currently has a population of 247, meaning the town will need to make a one-time payment of $247 to join the Wyoming Community Gas joint powers board.
Lashley recommended signing a one-year contract with the natural gas supplier. However, even at 40.8 cents per therm for a two-year contract, Wyoming Community Gas is still lower than what the town is currently paying, said Lashley.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30101823/0430_Med-Bow-Gas-5.mp3Town Clerk and Treasurer Karen Heath said the town should opt for the two-year contract. Heath said the five $75 account credits will more than cover the per capita cost of joining the gas consortium.
The Medicine Bow town council unanimously voted to contract with Wyoming Community Gas for two years. The council chose to wait to join the Wyoming Community Gas joint powers board until after Public Works Director Lashley receives and reviews the agreement.
Rawlins, Sinclair, Saratoga, and Hanna are all members of the Wyoming Community Gas joint powers board. This year, the Rawlins City Council chose to use its gas grant to purchase a new scoreboard for the town’s little league baseball fields. The Saratoga town council voted to split the grant five ways and provide equal payments for five different community recreation programs. In Hanna, the gas grant will be used to beautify the town hall.
The post Medicine Bow Selects Their Natural Gas Provider first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 30, 2024 |
Photo – Frank Crum – Courtesy gowyo.com
Former Wyoming offensive tackle Frank Crum signed with the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent on Saturday.
The NFL projected Crum to be a sixth-round pick going into the weekend.
The 6-foot-7, 315-pound Laramie native proved his speediness at the combine. Crum tied for the second-fastest 40-yard dash time among offensive linemen at 4.94 seconds. A third-generation Cowboy, Crum played right tackle most of his college career before moving to left tackle for his final season.
Crum was a first team All-Mountain West selection last fall and was named third team All-MW in 2022 by Pro Football Focus. He started 49 games at tackle throughout his six-year college career. He graduated from Laramie High in 2018.
Football is in chromosomes. Crum’s dad, Gary, was a team captain on UW’s offensive line in 1981 and earned All-Western Athletic Conference honors as a senior. His grandfather, Earl, lettered for the Cowboys in 1940.
A lifetime of dedication to the sport paid off this weekend.
The post Third Generation Cowboy Signs With Denver Broncos first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 29, 2024 |
Photo – Poster for Bee Keeping 101 – Courtesy CCSD#2
Carbon County School District Number Two’s Board of Cooperative Educational Services is hosting a beginners’ bee keeping class in Saratoga.
On Wednesday, May 1st, at the Platte Valley Community center, Saratoga Middle School Science Teacher Leslie Urasky and local beekeeper Billie Helwick will teach people the basics of bee keeping and honey production.
Helwick said she and Urasky will begin the class with a history lesson on bee keeping. After the history lesson, Helwick said they’ll cover the specific type of equipment needed to successfully keep bees in Saratoga.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112302/0429_Bee-Keeping-1.mp3Helwick has been bee keeping for 30 years. She said the key to a successful hive is a strong support network. Wednesday’s class will introduce attendees to the Carbon County Bee-Keepers Club.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112305/0429_Bee-Keeping-2.mp3Helwick said the Carbon County Bee-Keepers Club meets a few times a year. She said club members discuss bee box maintenance and occasionally visit one another’s hives.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112308/0429_Bee-Keeping-3.mp3Helwick said bees don’t sleep through the winter like other species of animals. The beekeeper said the insects will huddle together for warmth, only venturing out of the hive to go to the bathroom.
Helwick said you need a few essential pieces of equipment to keep bees. She said purchasing the hive is the largest upfront cost.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112311/0429_Bee-Keeping-4.mp3Helwick said she encourages people to wear their bee suits. She said adequate protection and proper planning can limit the number of stings people receive while harvesting honey.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112313/0429_Bee-Keeping-5.mp3For many, honey is the main reason to keep bees. Helwick said honey production varies year to year, but a properly maintained hive should produce plenty of honey.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112316/0429_Bee-Keeping-6.mp3Helwick said bee keeping doesn’t need to be intimidating. Wednesday’s class will provide attendees with the basic information they need to get started keeping bees.
The Carbon County School District Number Two’s Board of Cooperative Educational Services Bee Keeping 101 class is Wednesday, May 1st, at the Platte Valley Community Center, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Attendance is free of charge. However, people are being asked to register for the class no later than the end of today. To register, contact Stacy Erickson at 339-3033 or email serickson@crb2.org.
The post Bee Keeping Class To Be Held At Platte Valley Community Center first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 29, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins Landfill – Bigfoot99 file photo
Residents of Rawlins likely will pay more to dispose of certain items at the city’s landfill under a new plan being considered to generate more money.
Earlier this year, Rawlins officials began reviewing the rates for city utilities and services. The purpose of the review is to find opportunities for the city to increase revenue. The added funds are needed to cover inflation and pay for decades of deferred maintenance.
The city has raised the rates on administrative services, such as liquor permits and impound fees. Membership rates at the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course and Rawlins Family Recreation Center have also been increased.
During an April 16th special work session, the city reviewed the proposed rate increases to landfill services. City Manager Tom Sarvey said the monthly fee, included in residents’ water bills, won’t increase. However, Sarvey said, the cost to dispose of construction and demolition debris should go up by $20 per ton.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112337/0429_Rawlins-Landfill-1.mp3The Rawlins Landfill was accepting livestock manure for free. Sarvey suggested a new $23 per ton charge to accept solid animal waste. The city manager said the manure may potentially be used for agriculture in the future.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112340/0429_Rawlins-Landfill-2.mp3Sarvey asked for a new $5 per gallon charge to dispose of antifreeze at the landfill. Also, the city manager suggested the landfill no longer accept 35 gallons or less of used oil for free.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112342/0429_Rawlins-Landfill-3.mp3At the April 16th work session, a concerned citizen said the increased rates will cause more people to dump garbage and construction debris illegally south of the city, along 20 Mile Road. She asked if people who volunteer to clean up 20 Mile Road will receive discounted rates at the landfill. Mayor Terry Weickum said he supports compensating clean up volunteers. However, Mayor Weickum said he would prefer to prosecute the illegal dumpers.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112344/0429_Rawlins-Landfill-4.mp3The concerned citizen said she has only ever heard of one individual being caught and charged for illegally dumping on 20 Mile Road.
Mayor Weickum instructed City Manager Sarvey to arrange a clean up effort supported by the city. No cleaning date was set at the April 16th meeting.
Councilman Chris Weisenburg said he supports reimbursing the volunteers for their time if they give the city advanced notice of their intention to pick up garbage.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112347/0429_Rawlins-Landfill-5.mp3To prevent abuse of the system, Mayor Weickum said any resident asking to be compensated for cleaning up an illegal dump will first need to present a case file from the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office.
Later during the April 16th regular council meeting, the board voted to approve all the proposed rate changes.
The post Rawlins Landfill Fees To Rise As Well As Other Fees first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 29, 2024 |
Photo – Egg Hunt poster – Courtesy Sinclair Baptist Church
The Sinclair Baptist Church is holding a belated Easter egg hunt this Saturday.
This year’s Easter was celebrated on Sunday, March 31st. Many of the scheduled egg hunts on Easter Sunday, were cancelled or moved indoors because of the heavy snow that fell that day.
Liz Smith is the Director of Children’s Ministry for the Sinclair Baptist Church. Smith said her organization chose to wait until May 4th to hold the make-up Easter egg hunt. Because May 4th is often referred to as Star Wars Day, “May the Fourth be with you,” Smith said Saturday’s event will be themed after the famous movie franchise.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112325/0429_Egg-Hunt-1.mp3Smith said volunteers from the Baptist church will be hiding 12,000 plastic eggs around Washington Park, across from the Parco Inn. Prizes will be awarded to kids that find specially marked eggs. Smith was unable to say exactly what the special prizes will be. However, the children’s ministry director said the event will also offer other fun activities for people to do.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112327/0429_Egg-Hunt-2.mp3Smith said some of the eggs may or may not contain money.
Children will be separated by age group during Saturday’s Easter egg hunt. Smith said for safety, kids of different ages will hunt for Easter eggs in different areas of Washington Park.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112330/0429_Egg-Hunt-3.mp3The egg hunt kicks off at 1:00pm sharp. Smith said before the event, the Baptist church will hold a free hot dog lunch.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112330/0429_Egg-Hunt-3.mp3Smith said everyone is invited to an ice cream social in the Parco Inn after all the eggs have been found.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112335/0429_Egg-Hunt-5.mp3The Sinclair Baptist Church’s Star Wars themed Easter egg hunt is this Saturday, May 4th, at Washington Park in Sinclair. The free hotdog lunch will begin at 12:30pm. The Easter egg hunt starts at 1:00pm with the youngest kids going first. Afterwards, the Baptist church will host an ice cream social across the street from the park, in the Parco Inn.
The first 25 kids to arrive for the event will receive a free Yoda hat.
Smith encouraged everyone to attend the family friendly event.
The post Easter Egg Hunt Rescheduled For May 4th first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 29, 2024 |
Photo – Bo Nix – Courtesy Mile High Sports
Football coaches call the newest Denver Broncos quarterback, Bo Nix, “the super computer.”
Nix held up the familiar orange jersey Friday in the Pat Bowlen Fieldhouse after being chosen in the first round of the NFL Draft.
The Broncos drafted Nix as the 12th overall pick Thursday night. On Friday, the cerebral and athletic signal caller said he’s ready to compete.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112320/0429_Bo-Nix-1.wavDuring a stint at Auburn, he was viewed as the Tigers’ version of Tim Tebow. In his first game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Nix rallied Auburn to a victory over Oregon in his first game. The young QB turned inconsistent after his debut, posting 39 touchdowns and 16 interceptions.
After graduating, he drove to Oregon for a fresh start to the game. “I just wanted a chance to play for a championship and compete, and that’s what Oregon presented me with,” Nix said. After winning the starting job, he went on to complete 23 passes for 412 yards and four touchdowns. His passing completion record of 77% moved him to the top of Denver’s wish list.
Arm strength and intelligence set Nix apart from his counterparts in the draft, according to coaches. Dedicated, disciplined and competitive are the adjectives used to describe him by coaches and sports writers.
Nix said he didn’t “have a clue” as to when his name would be called in the draft. He just said he’s happy to be landing in the “Mile High City.”
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/29112322/0429_Bo-Nix-2.mp3Nix, a John Elway fan growing up, is following his hero’s big footsteps in Denver.
The post Bo Nix Chosen By Denver In First Round Of NFL Draft first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 26, 2024 |
Photo – Lee with his horse Jessie and his home made sheep wagon – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
You may have seen the lone traveler who appears to be from another time trekking slowly down Interstate 80 or on highway 30 between Walcott Junction and Medicine Bow.
Lee the Horse Logger is traveling 19th century-style across the country in a horse-drawn sheep wagon of his own creation.
For the past 17 years, Lee the Horse Logger has been making his way back and forth across the United States. A professional horse driver by trade, Lee is on his fourth trip through Wyoming. Bigfoot99 reporter Matt Copeland caught up with the traveler at the Hanna Junction on Highway 30. Originally from Montana, Lee moved to Alaska for solitude. Now, Lee said his home is wherever he and Jessie, his trusty horse, find themselves.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110511/0426_Horse-Logger-1.mp3Jessie is a 2,250-pound male Suffolk Punch with a short brown coat. Lee said Suffolk Punches are an old and rare breed of work horse. The traveler said Jessie handled the hills from Walcott to Hanna Junction better than anticipated.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110514/0426_Horse-Logger-2.mp3Jessie has been pulling Lee and his custom-built sheep wagon across the country since September. Lee described his mobile home.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110516/0426_Horse-Logger-3.mp3In early September, Lee’s previous sheep wagon was hit by a car and destroyed. No one was injured in the incident. The traveler said his newly constructed wagon isn’t a five-star hotel, but it offers protection from the elements.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110518/0426_Horse-Logger-4.mp3Lee said he is on his way to Boston, Massachusetts and then he’ll head back to Alaska. However, Lee said he doesn’t intend to stop traveling any time soon.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110521/0426_Horse-Logger-5.mp3Lee the Horse Logger was only in Hanna for two days to rest his horse. Starting today, he’ll be spending a few days in Laramie to resupply. Afterwards, the traveler will continue his way east.
To follow Lee and Jessie on their travels, visit the website xamericabyhorse.com or the YouTube channel X America By Horse.
On his website, Lee writes, “Here are lessons learned over the years of traveling, both inward and outward.
“Don’t Plan the trip.”
“It’s always the little things…”
“It’s the people we meet along the way that make it count.”
“Boredom is Death.”
“It’s all connected, we are all connected.”
The post Man Slowly Makes His Way Across United States first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 26, 2024 |
Photo – Gateway South Transmission Line – Courtesy Energy Services West
Representatives from Rocky Mountain Power provided a quarterly report about powerline projects in Carbon County.
Rocky Mountain Power is the Pacificorp subsidiary that provides electrical energy to Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming. The company is currently working on several transmission line and substation upgrade projects in Carbon County.
During the April 16th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Rocky Mountain Power Director of Project Delivery Brandon Smith said the Gateway South transmission line is nearly finished. Gateway South is a 416-mile-long high voltage line running from the wind turbines near Medicine Bow to Utah, 107.7 miles of which goes through Carbon County. Smith said the transmission towers have been built and only one percent of the electrical lines in the county are left to install.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110522/0426_PacifiCorps-Projects-1.mp3Smith said he expects the line to be energized by the end of October.
This summer, Smith said reclamation work will begin on the areas around the transmission towers. The Rocky Mountain Power representative said his company is in talks with TransWest Express LLC to determine which of the shared county roads his company is responsible for repairing.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110527/0426_PacifiCorps-Projects-2.mp3Smith said work has begun to expand the Aeolus electrical substation, north of Medicine Bow. The Rocky Mountain Power representative said he is working with County Road and Bridge Superintendent Kandis Fritz and the Wyoming Department of Transportation to get three large transformers moved to the Aeolus substation without damaging any roads.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110529/0426_PacifiCorps-Projects-3.mp3Smith said he is expecting four more transformers to arrive in the area by the end of June. The electrical equipment was delivered to holding yards around Laramie. Smith assured Carbon County Commissioner Sue Jones that the county would receive its share of the tax revenue from the purchase of the transformers.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110532/0426_PacifiCorps-Projects-4.mp3Rocky Mountain Power is also constructing a high voltage Gateway West line from Aeolus to Casper. Smith said work is over halfway finished, with work in Carbon County expected to be completed in five months.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110535/0426_PacifiCorps-Projects-5.mp3Smith said a new transmission line between the Aeolus and Freezeout Substations is also halfway done. The Rocky Mountain Power representative said work should be completed soon after Bureau of Land Management mandated restrictions against disturbing nesting sage grouse are lifted.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110537/0426_PacifiCorps-Projects-6.mp3Rocky Mountain Power is proposing a new 143-mile-long 500 kilovolt transmission line from the Shirley Basin to the Anticline Substation in Casper. Smith said the Bureau of Land Management has accepted his company’s Right of Way application and development work is proceeding. Smith said he is working with Wyoming Game and Fish to avoid disturbing wildlife as much as possible.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110540/0426_PacifiCorps-Projects-7.mp3Smith said TransWest Express is also constructing a transmission line between Carbon and Natrona Counties. Rocky Mountain Power will investigate if it can use a similar route as the other company for its Anticline to Shirley Basin line, said Smith.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110543/0426_PacifiCorps-Projects-8.mp3Smith said the environmental analysis of the Anticline to Shirley Basin transmission line project will take several years. He said construction isn’t expected to begin until the early 2030’s.
In a document presented to the Carbon County Commissioners, all PacifiCorp and Rocky Mountain Power facilities in the county are expected to generate $8.3 million in property taxes from October of 2023 to May of 2024. The company is also set to pay $700,000 in Wyoming Wind Tax.
The document also states that, to date, the Gateway South transmission line project has generated $3.5 million in sales tax for Carbon County. Other projects have brought an additional $2.7 million in sales tax to our area.
The post Rocky Mountain Power Gives Report To County Commissioners first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 26, 2024 |
Photo – Wyoming’s largest coal fired power plant Jim Bridger – Bigfoot99 file photo
New federal rules released on Thursday governing coal-fired and natural gas fired power plants nationwide drew fire from Wyoming’s Congressional delegation.
The Biden Administration rules aim to end carbon pollution over the next 26 years.
U.S. Senator John Barrasso said in a statement that the rules “handcuff America’s coal and natural gas production. The impact of the rules will be disastrous, Senator Barrasso said. Power plants will be required to shut down and energy costs on Americans will rise. Energy may be less reliable, as well, because of the power grid’s dependence on wind.
“Wyoming energy jobs will be threatened, electricity bills will rise, and the country will be at risk for rolling blackouts,” the senator said.
The new rule would force all coal-fired and gas-fired power plants to cut 90% of their carbon pollution.
Senator Cynthia Lummis said the rules will be disastrous for Wyoming’s energy industry and the jobs they have historically created.
In a statement, Lummis said, “Forcing the closure of gas and coal-fired plants that account for 60% of electricity generated across the country, while increasing demand by 30% through an electric vehicle mandate is not only unrealistic but dangerous.”
Wyoming’s junior senator said she would work to overturn Biden’s “disastrous set of regulations.”
The EPA touts $300 million dollars in health benefits from its rule—which is less than $1-dollar in benefit for every American based on the nation’s current population of 336-million people.
Republican governors—22 of them, including Governor Mark Gordon of Wyoming—have called on the Biden Administration to put a pause on the rule. Governor Mark Gordon called the rules “devastating” and promised a court battle. In a released statement, Governor Gordon said the Biden Administration seeks “the end of coal communities in Wyoming. EPA has weaponized the fear of climate change into a crushing set of rules that will result in an unreliable electric grid, unaffordable electricity, and thousands of lost jobs.”
Governor Gordon added that the White House seeks to crush the states and industries that have made the country strong.
Wyoming is joining other states to challenge yesterday’s rule and the wave of federal regulatory actions that state leaders see flowing from the EPA’s new rule.
States prevailed in the U.S. Supreme Court when the Obama Administration released similar regulations. A senior administration official told CNN that the EPA was “really confident” it had “carefully crafted” the final rules within the confines of the law. Governors and some industry stakeholders are confident the rule will be overturned in the courts.
The post Biden Administration Issues New Rules On Coal Fired Power Plants first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 26, 2024 |
Photo – Members of BPOE 609 receive the award – Courtesy City of Rawlins
Elks Lodge 609 is the recipient of the the April 2024 Rawlins Community Builder Award.
During the April 16th Rawlins city council meeting, Volunteer Committee Member and Rawlins Fire Chief Alan Robinson explained how each month, the city chooses a person or organization to honor. For the month of April, the Volunteer Committee has chosen the local chapter of the Elks Lodge to receive the Rawlins Community Builder Award.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110455/0426_CommBuilder-1.mp3The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is a volunteer organization that supports charitable, patriotic, and community service programs. The Rawlins branch of the Elks Lodge was founded in 1900, with the lodge building being constructed in 1907.
Rawlins Downtown Development Authority Mainstreet Executive Director Pam Thayer said Elks perform a lot of volunteer work within the city. For that reason, Thayer said the lodge deserves to receive the Community Builder Award.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110458/0426_CommBuilder-2.mp3Elks Lodge 609 members Ty Espy and Mike Murry were on hand to receive the award. Murry said the Rawlins Elks Lodge is uniquely dedicated to charity. Murry said the city’s lodge quadrupled the donation amount requested by the local head of the organization, the exalted ruler.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110501/0426_CommBuilder-3.mp3Murry said all Wyoming Elks Lodges donate to the Wyoming Elks State Trust, or WEST. Murry said his organization has used WEST funds to help disadvantaged young people throughout Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110504/0426_CommBuilder-4.mp3Murry said the Rawlins Elks Lodge has donated twice as much money to the Wyoming Elks State Trust as any other lodge in the state.
Over the past fiscal year, Murry said Rawlins Elks have donated approximately $45,000 in cash and time to communities across Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110507/0426_CommBuilder-5.mp3Murry said the Rawlins Elks Lodge recently donated $1,000 to Honor Flight, a program that transports veterans to war memorials in Washington D.C. The Elks Lodge member said his organization also contributes to various causes around the county.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/26110509/0426_CommBuilder-6.mp3Murry thanked the city of Rawlins for recognizing Elks Lodge 609 for their community service.
Winners of the Rawlins Community Builder Award receive a plaque and $100 to be donated to a local organization. The Elks Lodge members chose to give their award money to the Boys and Girls Club of Carbon County.
The post Local Club Recipient Of City Award For April first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 25, 2024 |
Photo – Congresswoman Harriette Hageman speaks in Rawlins – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Appearing in Rawlins on Tuesday evening, Wyoming’s freshman congresswoman says she’s “horrified” by the corruption of our federal government.
On Tuesday evening in Rawlins, Congresswoman Harriet Hageman addressed a crowd of over 100 people during a town hall discussion at the Jeffery Center.
During her talk, Congresswoman Hageman mentioned that last month, the federal government passed a 1,102-page, $1.2 trillion minibus to fund the Department of Defense, Homeland Security, and other state and federal agencies. The congresswoman said she was only given 32 hours to read the lengthy bill.
Hageman said she opposed the March 22nd minibus and all the other shortsighted bills put forth by congress.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101645/0425_Hageman-Visit-1.mp3Congresswoman Hageman said since taking office 16 months ago, she has been fighting to extend the time Native American tribes can legally lease their land to developers, from 25 years to 99. The congresswoman said tribes may apply for a lease extension from the United States Secretary of the Interior’s office. However, she said tribes must often wait decades for the Secretary of the Interior to review their applications. Congresswoman Hageman said her bill appears primed to pass the Senate.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101649/0425_Hageman-Visit-2.mp3Congresswoman Hageman said on April 12th, the House passed the Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act. The congresswoman said she opposed the bill because it extends the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, or FISA. Hageman said state and federal law enforcement agencies have misused FISA to perform illegal warrant-less data collection on millions of Americans.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101651/0425_Hageman-Visit-3.mp3Congresswoman Hageman said she and 11 other members of congress delivered articles of impeachment against Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas. The congresswoman said the Senate broke with 230 years of American history by dismissing the articles of impeachment before trial.
Congresswoman Hageman said she has a large folder of reports compiled by Department of Homeland Security Inspector General Joseph Cuffari showing how, under Mayorkas’s watch, over 11 million illegal aliens have entered the country. The congresswoman said her reports also show that children are being taken from youth detention centers and given to human traffickers, en masse.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101654/0425_Hageman-Visit-4.mp3The congresswoman said by attempting to cover up the crisis on our southern border, the federal government is actively participating in child trafficking.
Congresswoman Hageman said Department of Homeland Security Inspector General Cuffari also told her about a phone app created by his agency, called CBP One. The app allows migrants to set up an appointment with U.S. officials at international crossing points to determine whether they should be allowed into the country to request asylum.
Congresswoman Hageman said the House Judiciary Committee passed The Forth Amendment is Not for Sale act. The congresswoman said the bill closes a loophole used by the Federal Bureau of Investigation to collect cell phone data from Americans without a warrant.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101656/0425_Hageman-Visit-5.mp3The congresswoman said the FBI can use the purchased cell phone data to geolocate a person to within one yard.
Congresswoman Hageman said she voted against the recent $95 billion foreign aid package. The bill included $61 billion specifically for Ukraine. The congresswoman said she doesn’t condone Russian’s actions in Ukraine, but she feels that it isn’t our responsibility to pay to protect Europe.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101659/0425_Hageman-Visit-6.mp3Congresswoman Hageman said she is working on a bill to prevent the federal government from shutting down the final postal distribution center in Wyoming. The congresswoman said processing mail outside of the state will make it take longer for residents to receive potentially life-saving packages.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101702/0425_Hageman-Visit-7.mp3The Biden administration has made significant changes to Title 9, the civil rights law that prohibits sex discrimination against students and employees at public schools and universities that receive federal funding. Title 9 was altered to prohibit discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation, making it illegal for schools to prevent boys from playing girls’ sports. Congresswoman Hageman said she personally benefited from Title 9 and does not support the Biden administration’s communistic changes to the law.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101705/0425_Hageman-Visit-8.mp3Congresswoman Hageman said the Unites States of America was established under the assumption that future leaders would use reason and logic to guide the country. The congresswoman said the founding fathers could not have anticipated the unprecedented levels of corruption of our federal government.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101708/0425_Hageman-Visit-9.mp3Congresswoman Hageman said since arriving in Washington D.C., she has seen how our government is moving away from the rule of law and now only focuses on protecting the favored few. The congresswoman said the government’s treatment of Donald Trump goes against everything she learned in law school.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101710/0425_Hageman-Visit-10.mp3Congresswoman Hageman said she will continue to fight against the federal government to preserve and expand state’s rights.
The post Congresswoman Holds Town Hall Meeting In Rawlins first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 25, 2024 |
Photo – Memorial Hospital of Carbon County – Bigfoot99 file photo
Memorial Hospital of Carbon County officials held their second Business Breakfast.
Yesterday morning, members of MHCC met with the public to discuss the status of the hospital. Attendees were treated to a delicious breakfast inside of the hospital’s cafeteria, The Windy City Café.
The meeting began with the introduction of MHCC’s new, but temporary, general surgeon Mark Shapiro. Dr. Shapiro said he began practicing medicine in New Hampshire. After the COVID-19 outbreak, Dr. Shapiro traveled across the country, temporarily providing his services to various hospitals.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101713/0425_MHCC-Breakfast-1.mp3Locums, or locum tenens is a Latin phrase that means “to hold a place.”
Next, MHCC’s new Chief Financial Officer, Margaret Fontana said the hospital is still suffering financially.
Fontana said it is going to take a long time to bring the struggling facility back from the brink of closure. However, Fontana said she is confident that once she gets the hospital’s finances figured out, MHCC will succeed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101715/0425_MHCC-Breakfast-2.mp3Director of Strategic Operations Stephanie Hinkle said the hospital has transitioned to a new billing company called Revenue Enterprises. Hinkle said other medical facilities across the state use the same billing company. The director of strategic operations said Revenue Enterprises will work with medical coders to strengthen the hospital’s revenue stream.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101719/0425_MHCC-Breakfast-3.mp3MHCC is looking for people to assist Chief Financial Officer Fontana. Hinkle said having a well-staffed accounting department will lower the number of outstanding patient accounts and allow the hospital to remain operational.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101721/0425_MHCC-Breakfast-4.mp3Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is working with a new hospitalist group called Rural Family Physicians. Director of Nursing and Outpatient Services Jessica Seldomridge said the physician group specializes in rural medical care.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101724/0425_MHCC-Breakfast-5.mp3Director of Strategic Operations Hinkle said Rural Family Physicians have increased the number of patients receiving treatment at the hospital. Hinkle said over the past two months, the patient count at MHCC has quadrupled.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101727/0425_MHCC-Breakfast-6.mp3Hinkle said the low patient census was seriously hurting the hospital. A high patient count, combined with providing increased medical services, is essential to keeping MHCC open, said Hinkle.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101729/0425_MHCC-Breakfast-7.mp3Chief Executive Officer Rex Walk said he has a new internal medicine doctor starting soon. CEO Walk said he is also close to recruiting two physician assistants.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101732/0425_MHCC-Breakfast-8.mp3Hospital officials said things are looking up for Memorial Hospital of Carbon County. However, it will take a long time to correct years of financial mismanagement.
The post MHCC Meets With Public To Discuss Status Of Hospital first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 25, 2024 |
Photo – Map of Heritage Assets – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Casper City Council signed onto the effort this week that the Carbon County Board of Commissioners already endorsed, making south-central Wyoming home to a national heritage area.
The Natrona County Board of Commissioners are also on board for the effort in the two counties called the Pathways National Heritage Area.
In 2023, Dr. Glenn Haas and Vernon Lovejoy began the process of developing the area which builds on what President Ronald Regan referred to in 1984 as a “new kind of National Park.
Dr. Haas told Bigfoot 99 earlier this year that this new breed of national heritage area will strengthen tourism by bringing national recognition to the historic trails in our area.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101736/0425_Pathways-1.mp3According to Haas, the proposed Pathways, will put Carbon and Natrona Counties on a federally managed list of historic locations. He said the designation will not infringe on private property rights.
Haas said the designation is simply a label and does not include any infrastructure or services associated with the National Park Service.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/25101738/0425_Pathways-2.mp3The feasibility study was finished earlier this year. The document focuses on nine of the most historically important trails in Carbon and Natrona Counties. Included on the list are Overland Trail, the Pony Express Trail, and the North Platte River—all of which played significant roles in the story of American expansion.
Carbon County is home to many of the trails and railroad lines that are part of the story of the American expansion westward. Natrona County is home to many of the original trails used by migrants heading west.
Unlike a National Park, a national heritage area will be managed locally and will have none of the federal architecture of a national park.
Lovejoy and Haas, both Colorado residents, are leading the charge to create the National Pathways Heritage area.
Haas said communities that become involved in the project will see a boom in tourism without the oppressive presence of federal authority.
Although Lovejoy and Haas met with little opposition or even questions from the Carbon County Commissioners, they were drilled with questions in Natrona County. Among the questions were: How much authority will local government have over what the Colorado group does in Wyoming. What happens if someone wants to drill for oil or do other exploratory energy work in a designated area? And will a designation open the door to environmentalist groups special interest groups looking to limit development on private land?
To learn more about the Pathways National Heritage Area project, you can visit the website, PathwaysNHA.com. Maps, descriptions and a link to the feasibility study finished earlier this year is available there.
The post Casper Signs On For National Heritage Area first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 24, 2024 |
Photo – Rawlins Police Department Dispatch Center – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga officials have scheduled a public meeting to talk about the possibility of combining the town’s emergency dispatch services with the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office.
At 5:30pm on May 13th in the Platte Valley Community Center, Saratoga will hold a public workshop to discuss dispatch services.
Last November, Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris told the town council that he lacked enough dispatchers to run a 24-hour emergency call center.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100631/0424_Toga-Dispatch-1.mp3The Saratoga Police Department’s dispatch center also takes emergency calls from Encampment and the surrounding region.
To ensure the town can continue to provide emergency dispatch services for the Platte Valley, Chief Morris created a Memorandum of Understanding with the sheriff’s department. The MOU had sheriff’s dispatchers temporarily staff Saratoga’s call center in exchange for payment from the town.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100633/0424_Toga-Dispatch-2.mp3While the MOU was in effect, both Chief Morris and Sheriff Alex Bakken discovered that permanently combining both the town and county dispatch centers may be the most cost-effective strategy. At the March 19th Saratoga town council meeting, Chief Morris said Sheriff Bakken was investigating how to efficiently bring the two call centers together.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100635/0424_Toga-Dispatch-3.mp3Sheriff Bakken has been speaking to Wyoming counties that already field a combined dispatch center, such as Sweetwater and Albany Counties. Speaking at a March 13th meeting with the Rawlins city council, Sheriff Bakken said he believes that a single call center, controlled by a joint powers board, is the way to go for Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100637/0424_Toga-Dispatch-4.mp3Later in the March 13th meeting, Sheriff Bakken said a combined dispatch center with the Saratoga Police Department is close to happening. The sheriff invited the Rawlins Police Department to join as well.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100639/0424_Toga-Dispatch-5.mp3Sheriff Bakken’s comments appear at odds with what Saratoga officials are saying. During the March 19th Saratoga town council meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis, Councilwoman Kathy Beck, and Chief Morris said the town must gather more information before making a decision.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100641/0424_Toga-Dispatch-6.mp3The Saratoga town council decided that a public workshop is needed. The meeting will inform residents of why the town is considering a combined dispatch center with the sheriff’s department and discuss the pros and cons of the project.
The public workshop for dispatch services is on Monday, May 13th at 5:30pm in the Platte Valley Community Center in Saratoga. The meeting will not be broadcast online.
The post Saratoga Officials Set Meeting To Discuss Law Enforcement Dispatch first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 24, 2024 |
Photo – Area of water break in Hanna – Bigfoot99 file photo
A water main break in Hanna was repaired for a fraction of the projected cost.
Last month, a broken 12-inch water main was discovered on the northwestern side of Hanna. On March 14th, the Hanna town council held a special meeting to declare a state of emergency. While residents were not in danger of losing access to water, Town Treasurer Ann Calvert said the emergency declaration is required for the town to disregard the state’s legally required bidding process.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100610/0424_Hanna-Water-Main-1.mp3During the March 14th meeting, Treasurer Calvert also said declaring a state of emergency allows the town to apply for a Mineral Royalty Grant, or MRG, through the state. Calvert told the town council that an MRG is the only source of funding the town can rely on to pay for the potentially costly project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100612/0424_Hanna-Water-Main-2.mp3Hanna Public Works Director Larry Korkow said replacing the nearly 50-year-old pipe and casing could realistically cost anywhere between $750,000 and $1.5 million.
Turns out, the water main break was significantly cheaper to repair than anticipated. At the April 9th Hanna town council meeting, Councilman Sam Sikes confirmed that it cost $32,800 in total to fix the water line. Treasurer Calvert said the town spent $32,000 to dig up the pipe and $800 in parts to fix the leak.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100615/0424_Hanna-Water-Main-3.mp3The half century old water line runs beneath the Union Pacific Railroad tracks. If the town needed to replace the entire water main, Union Pacific would need to stop train traffic along the line, adding to the potential cost of replacing the pipe.
Mayor Jon Ostling said the town was very lucky.
The post Hanna’s Water Main Break Repaired For Significantly Less Than Originally Thought first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
April 24, 2024 |
Photo – Child Advocacy Project logo – Courtesy Children’s Advocacy Project
Saint Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County is hosting a presentation on Thursday from the Children’s Advocacy Project.
Tomorrow afternoon, the project’s Executive Director, Stacy Nelson will speak at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Rawlins. Nelson said the Casper-based organization is one of only three child advocacy centers in Wyoming. The other two operate in Cheyenne and Jackson. The program has received National Children’s Alliance Accreditation, that, according to the group’s website, signifies excellence in providing services to child abuse victims.
Nelson said the Casper Children’s Advocacy Project is a private non-profit entity that provides forensic interview services for crimes against or involving children.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100618/0424_SCHCC-1.mp3Nelson said Saint Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County has asked her to provide information about the services the Casper Children’s Advocacy Project offers. Nelson said Child & Family Advocate DeAnna Reish will also educate attendees about her area of expertise.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100620/0424_SCHCC-2.mp3Saint Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County Board President Reverend Bobbie Fitzhugh said she wants to dedicate every other monthly meeting to educating the public. Reverend Fitzhugh said she invited Executive Director Nelson to speak in the hopes that the Casper Children’s Advocacy Project might expand into Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100623/0424_SCHCC-3.mp3Saint Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County was established in 2022 to help stranded motorists. Reverend Fitzhugh said the majority of the charity’s efforts are focused on providing fuel and shelter to travelers in need. However, the reverend said she is trying to promote all the services available to needy people in our community.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100625/0424_SCHCC-4.mp3Before Nelson’s presentation, Reverend Fitzhugh said the Saint Christopher’s Highway board will attend to some administrative housekeeping. The reverend said the board will also address the $50,000 grant it received from the Foundation for the Episcopal Church in Wyoming, allowing the charity to continue helping needy travelers.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/24100628/0424_SCHCC-5.mp3The Saint Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County meeting featuring Casper Children’s Advocacy Project Executive Director Stacy Nelson is tomorrow, April 25th, from noon to 1:00pm in the lower level of St. Thomas Episcopal Church, located at 321 6th Street in Rawlins. A free homemade chicken alfredo lunch will be served during the presentation.
Reverend Fitzhugh said Regional Nurse Supervisor and Rawlins city council member Jacquelin Wells will be at the May 23rd Saint Christopher’s board meeting to give a presentation on human trafficking.
The post Local Traveler’s Aid Group Hosts Informational Meeting In Rawlins first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.
September 13, 2023 | Photo – WYDOT crews make repairs to sinkhole on 3rd Street in Rawlins – Courtesy WYDOT Facebook WYDOT crews have temporarily fixed a sinkhole in Rawlins. Permanent repairs should be completed by the end of next summer. Earlier this year, cracked water pipes caused a sinkhole to open beneath the east […]
September 13, 2023 | Photo – Employees of Black Hills Energy – Bigfoot99 file photo In Rawlins, utility cuts on city streets have not been repaired because the contractor forgot about them, says the public works director. Cuts made in the asphalt to accommodate natural gas hookups have left the members of the governing body […]
September 13, 2023 | Photo – Fuel pump at gas station – Bigfoot99 file photo Get ready to pay more for more pain at the pump as winter weather approaches. The pace of price jumps at the pump over the last two months are the worst since June of 2022 when unleaded peaked around $5.06 […]
September 13, 2023 | Photo – Cowboys vs Longhorns – Courtesy gowyo.com The Wyoming Cowboys head to Austin, Texas this week to face perhaps their biggest test of the season. Waiting for the Pokes, is this year’s favorite to win the national championship, the Longhorns. After last weekend’s impressive defeat of Alabama, Texas is being […]
September 12, 2023 | Photo – FEMA’s Flood Map – Bigfoot99 file photo Saratoga officials recently discussed hiring an engineering firm to determine if the town can challenge new FEMA flood maps that will impact some homeowners. Flood zones have been redrawn by federal officials to include more homes in potential flood zones forcing owners […]
September 12, 2023 | Photo – Memorial Hospital of Carbon County – Bigfoot99 file photo The financial outlook of Memorial Hospital of Carbon County appears to be improving, administrators at the facility reported last week. At Tuesday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Interim Chief Executive Officer Rex Walk and Interim Chief Financial Officer Wayne […]
September 12, 2023 | Photo – Mugshot Melvin Bagley – Courtesy CCSO A 73-year-old man appeared in Carbon County Circuit Court last Wednesday on attempted murder charges. According to court documents, Melvin Leon Bagley faces two counts of 2nd Degree Attempted Murder and two counts of Aggravated Assault along with additional charges of Reckless Endangerment […]
September 12, 2023 | Photo – Tall weeds near a fence – Bigfoot99 file photo Hanna residents are expected to show up and speak out tonight against a proposed change to the town’s nuisance ordinance. Hanna officials are preparing to pass an amendment to the ordinance regarding neglected properties. The amendment redefines what is considered […]
September 12, 2023 | Photo – Longhorns vs Cowboys poster – Courtesy Darrell K Royal Stadium In sports, Craig Bohl and his coaching staff walked through the tape of Saturday’s win over Portland State with the team yesterday. Despite the 31-17 win, Coach Bohl expressed concern about the lack of sharpness his team showed at […]
September 11, 2023 | Photo – Twin Towers on September 11th, 2001 – Bigfoot99 file photo Governor Mark Gordon ordered both the U.S. and State of Wyoming flag to be flown at half-staff statewide from sunrise to sunset today, September 11, to honor and respect the individuals who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks […]
September 11, 2023 | Photo – Community Meeting poster – Courtesy Town of Saratoga Work begins this week on a plan to study and design a new system of walkways in Saratoga. A public meeting will be held Wednesday. In October of last year, Saratoga Planning and Zoning Commission Chairwoman McCall Burau was awarded a […]
September 11, 2023 | Photo – Student Loan Forgiveness Ad – Courtesy studentaid.gov U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis joined 15 of their colleagues on Friday in introducing a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution that seeks to overturn President Biden’s income-driven repayment (IDR) rule, which would allow student loan borrowers to forgo paying back […]
September 11, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Conversations Poster – Courtesy MHCC Facebook On Tuesday, the Carbon County Prevention Network is hosting an information seminar regarding two relatively new and dangerous drugs. The Memorial Hospital of Carbon County, in conjunction with the Carbon County Higher Education Center, is sponsoring a new monthly series of […]
September 11, 2023 | Photo – Wyoming fans cheer on the Cowboys – Courtesy gowyo.com The Wyoming Cowboys improved to a perfect 2-0 start on the season despite a few hiccups on the way to Saturday’s 31-17 win over Portland State at War Memorial Stadium. Junior wide receiver Ayir Asante from New Jersey scored a […]
September 8, 2023 |
Photo – Tourism meeting – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
The Carbon County Tourism Master Plan is nearing completion.
On Thursday, the tourism master plan steering committee met in Rawlins to finalize the proposed document. The group’s master plan is a comprehensive list of ways to attract more travelers to Carbon County. Darren Rudloff, who is steering the plan’s creation, held a meeting at a hotel in Rawlins to go over the document and solicit input from the steering committee members. Rudloff said he gathered information from sources across the county to determine what could be done to bring more out-of-state travelers to Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113527/0908_Tourism-Plan-1.mp3To open yesterday’s meeting, Rudloff presented his idea for how Carbon County should present itself in advertising. Rudloff said the county is home to beautiful scenery and unique small-town living.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113529/0908_Tourism-Plan-2.mp3Earlier this year, the steering committee sent out a survey to Carbon County residents asking for suggestions on how to attract more travelers to the area. One of the top survey responses was a desire to improve the county’s appearance along the highways. Rudloff said towns should implement programs to encourage the removal of unsightly items.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113532/0908_Tourism-Plan-3.mp3Another top priority on the tourism master plan survey was a need for affordable housing within the county. Rudloff said the tourism master plan steering committee must fight to loosen state and county regulations regarding housing. Rudloff specifically pointed to strict municipal ordinances governing the minimum size of a residential lot.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113535/0908_Tourism-Plan-4.mp3Rudloff also suggested the creation of wind energy attractions. Rudloff said developers should be contacted about sponsoring informational sites about their industry. Yvonne Johnson, the Carbon County Economic Development Director, said the idea has been discussed for a long time. Johnson said developers have not shown interest in funding such a project.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113537/0908_Tourism-Plan-5.mp3The steering committee members present at the meeting said they wanted to include more public transit and a focus on the local museums in the master plan. Ruddloff said he would make the changes to the document. Rudloff said the master plan is a living document that can be altered at any time as the county’s needs change.
The 2023 Carbon County Tourism Master Plan will be available to view online at the end of this month.
September 8, 2023 |
Photo – Senator JD Vance of Ohio – Courtesy senate.gov
Republicans in the U.S. Congress rallied Thursday but failed to passed legislation to block mask mandates as another round of COVID hysteria flared up around the country this week.
Wyoming Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis joined the cause. Barrasso and Lummis yesterday announced their support for a measure from Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio that would have prevented the federal government from imposing nationwide mask mandates for domestic air travel and public transit systems.
The Freedom to Breathe Act would also prevent schools from turning children away from classrooms if they chose not to wear face masks. Earlier this week, Sen. The floor debate Thursday was lively with Senator Vance explaining his reasons for the bill.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113525/0908_Sen-Vance.mp3Vance’s bill included a sunset provision allowing it to expire at the end of 2024 if passed. Republican lawmakers said they were offering the bill to push back at the imposition of new mask mandates.
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso rose in support of the legislation.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113523/0908_Sen-Barrasso.mp3True to form with past support for government-imposed mask mandates, senate Democrats killed the bill. Just one senator’s objection is enough to foil a unanimous consent vote. Democrat Ed Markey of Massachusetts blocked the vote. Markey called the bill a “red herring.”
Some senate staffers on the Democrat side of the aisle wore masks during the debate. Sen. Vance said this week that Democrats used the mask and vaccine mandates to categorize Americans who refused to comply with their arbitrary and ineffective rules as “second class citizens.”
September 8, 2023 |
Photo – Aerial view of intersection of Constitution Ave and South River Street – Courtesy Town of Saratoga
The Town of Saratoga will create a four-way stop intersection by the new Valley Village Childcare building.
At Tuesday’s town council meeting, Police Chief Mike Morris said he was approached by Valley Village Board of Directors Vice Chairperson Ellie Dana to address safety concerns over the nearby intersection. Chief Morris said the area where Constitution Avenue and South River Street meet can get very busy. Kathy Glode Parks sits on the southeast side of the intersection and the Saratoga Museum’s pavilion is on the northwest. Chief Morris said because children from the daycare will be nearby, a four-way stop combined with a crosswalk was needed.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113517/0908_School-Crosswalk-1.mp3The Platte Valley Clinic occupied the future site of the Valley Village Childcare, called the Corbett Medical Building. The Platte Valley Clinic moved from the Corbett Medical Building into the North Platte Valley Medical Center after it opened in May.
Ellie Dana and the Valley Village Childcare board requested to use the Corbett Building after the clinic left. The Corbett Medical Building was given to Saratoga to be used for the good of residents. The town acted as landlord while the Platte Valley Clinic occupied the building.
When Valley Village staff examined the structure, they found it needed around $100,000 worth of repairs and modifications to bring the building up to code. Dana offered to pay for the required upgrades if the town would sell the building to the daycare. In February of this year, the Saratoga town council agreed to sell the Ray A. Corbett Medical Building to Valley Village Childcare for $1.
The building is undergoing the extensive remodeling needed for the daycare and Excel Preschool to move in. When the facility opens next year, the area will see an increased number of small children around the building. Speaking at Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Chief Morris said the four-way stop and crosswalks would increase safety near the daycare and preschool.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113519/0908_School-Crosswalk-2.mp3Saratoga Public Works Director Emery Penner said installing two stop signs and painting the crosswalks would require about $600 in material. Penner said the money is available in the streets department’s budget.
Chief Morris said he recommends that the town move forward with the project.
Mayor Chuck Davis said because of the increased traffic from the Saratoga Farmers Market each summer, the intersection needs additional safety measures.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113521/0908_School-Crosswalk-3.mp3Mayor Davis called for a motion to approve the installation of two additional stop signs and a painted crosswalk at the intersection of Constitution Avenue and South River Street. The motion passed unanimously. No timeline on when the additional stop signs will be installed was given.
September 8, 2023 |
Photo – WYP Family Support Network logo – Courtesy whpfamilysupport.org
A national faith group and local law enforcement officers will hold a community meeting in Elk Mountain next month.
On October 9th, the Wyoming Highway Patrol Family Support Network and the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office will team up with Faith and Blue to hold an open house meeting at the Elk Mountain Community Church. Faith and Blue is a national organization focused on bringing law enforcement agencies together with faith-based institutions.
Wyoming Highway Patrol Family Support Network Local Area Coordinator Kay Schrock said the Elk Mountain Community Church is coordinating with local police officers to host a community engagement event.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113505/0908_Faith-Blue-1.mp3Schrock said the Wyoming Highway Patrol Family Support Network delivers emotional assistance for troopers and their families. Schrock said she is working to bring more Faith and Blue meetings to Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113508/0908_Faith-Blue-2.mp3Shrock said the Wyoming Highway Patrol Family Support Network chose to work with Faith and Blue because of a shared desire to foster solidarity between the community and local police.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113510/0908_Faith-Blue-3.mp3Schrock said October 9th’s meeting is a way for residents of Carbon County to interact with law enforcement in a favorable light. Schrock said knowing the people responsible for ensuring public safety is especially important in Wyoming’s rural communities.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113512/0908_Faith-Blue-4.mp3Schrock said she arranged another Faith and Blue meeting at the First Southern Baptist Church in Rawlins on October 8th, the day before the Elk Mountain meeting. Schrock said law enforcement officers local to Rawlins will collect canned goods during the meeting.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113515/0908_Faith-Blue-5.mp3The Rawlins Faith and Blue meeting will be from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on October 8th, at the First Southern Baptist Church located at 2005 Darnley Road. The following day, October 9th, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, Faith and Blue will meet at the Elk Mountain Community Church, located at 108 East Bridge Street.
Both meetings are free to attend. Light refreshments will be provided. Schrock said she encourages the public to come and speak to their local law enforcement and get to know them as people.
September 8, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming logo and Portland State logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
The danger for the Wyoming Cowboys is letting their guard down tomorrow against Portland State after last week’s come-from-behind win over 14-point favorite Texas Tech in double-overtime.
Out of the Big Sky Conference, the Vikings fell to another FBS-opponent last week, 15th ranked Oregon. The result was an ugly 81-7 loss.
Even more gruesome than the final score, one Portland State player had part of an ear torn off in the game. Vikings head coach Bruce Barnum talked this week about the injury to the unnamed player on a Portland podcast, “The Bald-Faced Truth.”
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113459/0908_Coach-Barnum-1.mp3The Portland State team that will take to the field in Laramie tomorrow will be a very different one than was tested by fire at Oregon. To avoid injuries to his starters last week, PSU head coach Barnum threw a lot of young players onto the field against the Ducks. The subs came early and often with 22 freshmen, including seven true freshmen seeing significant playing time.
With a more seasoned Vikings team on Jonah Field tomorrow in Laramie, Wyoming head coach Craig Bohl was cautioning fans this week to keep their enthusiasm in check. The Cowboys will face a different Vikings team than the one that lost last week to Oregon.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08113503/0908_Coach-Craig-Bohl-1.mp3Tomorrow’s game between Wyoming and Portland State will be the first-ever meeting between the two schools. PSU has been looking at tape of the Cowboys against Texas Tech all week. The Pokes have not had much to review. PSU quarterback Dante Chachere is an athletic, dual-threat signal caller. He went 5-for-14 passing for 35 yards, including a touchdown pass to freshman Chance Miller, before being pulled early last week. He led the Vikings with 53 yards despite his limited field time.
Veteran Wide receiver Nate Bennett comes in tomorrow with with four career touchdowns and 1,133 yards.
Veteran offensive tackle Frank Crum with the Cowboys—all 6-7, 315 pounds of him—says the Cowboys know they’re not playing a pushover team tomorrow.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/08115500/0907_Frank-Crum.mp3The Cowboy defense held one of the nation’s top offenses in check in the final three quarters last week. They’ll look to hold the line tomorrow, as well.
Wyoming and Portland state kick off for the first time ever at War Memorial Stadium at 2 p.m. tomorrow. Bigfoot 99 has the game starting with the pregame show starting at noon-30.
September 7, 2023 |
Photo – Jennifer Anderson being sworn in by Mayor Chuck Davis – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot 99
Saratoga has a new town clerk.
Jennifer Anderson, a former dispatcher for the Saratoga Police Department, has been hired to be the new Saratoga town clerk.
As reported by Bigfoot99, former Town Clerk Marie Christen resigned during the June 20th Saratoga town council meeting. Christen said her last day would be July 14th.
The town was unable to find a new town clerk before July 14th. Christen opted to remain with the town as a part-time clerk until a replacement could be found.
During Tuesday night’s Saratoga town council meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis announced Anderson’s appointment as town clerk. Mayor Davis said Anderson was chosen by an independent hiring committee.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100506/0907_Town-Clerk-1.mp3The hiring process was unexpectedly difficult.
Mayor Davis said he created the interview board after three applicants for the open town clerk position failed to show for in-person interviews. The mayor said two applicants declined their interviews on short notice. Mayor Davis said the third applicant stopped responding to his phone calls.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100508/0907_Town-Clerk-2.mp3Anderson was a full-time communications officer for the Saratoga Police Department before being hired as town clerk. To prepare for the job, Mayor Davis said Anderson will work with former town clerk Christen for a week and learn from her years of experience.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100511/0907_Town-Clerk-3.mp3Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked if Anderson was scheduled for training through the Wyoming Association of Municipalities Clerks and Treasurers, otherwise known as WAMCAT. Mayor Davis said he was waiting for a date for WAMCAT and Caselle training classes.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100524/0907_Town-Clerk-4.mp3Caselle is the computer software program used by Saratoga, and other municipalities across the country, to manage town finances.
Mayor Davis asked for a motion to appoint Jennifer Anderson as town clerk with an annual salary of $50,000. Councilwoman Beck made the motion and Councilman Jerry Fluty seconded. Every member of the Saratoga town council voted to hire Anderson.
Following the vote, Anderson was sworn in as town clerk.
September 7, 2023 |
Photo – Old Postcard of Jeffrey Memorial Community Center – Courtesy ebay.com
The Jeffrey Memorial Community Center will receive needed ventilation system upgrades. A new air conditioning unit will not be one of them.
During Tuesday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Interim Buildings and Grounds Manager Jeff Askins asked the board for recommendations on how to proceed with required upgrades to the Jeffrey Center’s HVAC system. Askins took over as Interim Buildings and Grounds Manager following Mike Newbrough’s resignation during the August 15th county commissioners meeting. Askins told the board that the outdated pneumatic air flow control system needed to be replaced with direct digital controls.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100446/0907_Jeffrey-Center-1.mp3The board had previously approved roughly $116,000 for the purchase of the digital HVAC controls.
Askins said right now, it would cost around $170,000 to add air conditioning to the 92-year-old former high school. Commissioner John Espy asked Askins if the computerized controls would accept the addition of an air conditioning unit in the future. Askins said yes. County Clerk Gwen Bartlett said the price is very likely to go up if the board waits.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100448/0907_Jeffrey-Center-2.mp3The commissioners expressed concern about where the county would find an additional $170,000 for the air conditioning upgrade. Commissioner Espy asked if the Jeffrey Center would be rented more in the summer if it had forced air cooling. Espy said Rawlins lacks a large air-conditioned interior space for events.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100452/0907_Jeffrey-Center-3.mp3Interim Buildings and Grounds Manager Askins said having air conditioning in the Jeffrey Center may increase the number of summer rentals. However, Askins said the upgraded HVAC controls may make the building cooler without the need for the costly air conditioning upgrade.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100453/0907_Jeffrey-Center-4.mp3Commissioner Espy recommended the board deny Askin’s request for air conditioning at the Jeffrey Center. The commissioner said $170,000 was too much money for the county to spend right now.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100501/0907_Jeffrey-Center-5.mp3The commissioners chose not to allow the purchase of the air conditioning system for the Jeffrey Memorial Community Center. The board told Askin to see if the upgraded HVAC controls keep the building cool next summer.
September 7, 2023 |
Photo – Colorado River – Courtesy AccuWeather
Governor Mark Gordon’s newly formed Colorado River Advisory System met for the first time yesterday.
The committee consists of 11 members representing various water users and interests in Wyoming’s portion of the Colorado River Basin. The members were chosen from the Green River and Little Snake River basins to represent agriculture, industry, municipalities, environmental interests, conservation districts and the Wyoming Legislature.
Governor Gordon told the members in a letter dated September 5th that they were chosen because of their backgrounds in the various sectors that develop and use water systems in the state. “An effective Advisory Committee will be essential to the decision-making of the Governor and the Governor’s appointed Colorado River Commissioner,” Gordon told the group in an introductory letter.
The agenda for Wednesday’s meeting included a hydrology update and a packet on water banking.
In an Environmental Impact Statement for near term Colorado River operations released earlier this year, the Bureau of Reclamation announced a proposal to revise it guidelines for the operation of both the Glen Canyon Dam in northern Arizona and the Hoover Dam on the border of Nevada and Arizona.
The Green River in northwest Wyoming and the Yampa River in Colorado are major tributaries of the Colorado River. Both states, along with Utah and New Mexico are categorized as Upper Division states. The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation is tasked with operating the Colorado River system in both the Upper and Lower Basins.
The water problems affecting the region were predicted over 100 years ago by those who were critical of the water infrastructure system that was developed in the western states during the early 20th century. The period from 2000 through 2022 has been the driest 23-year period in more than a century and one of the driest periods in the last 1,200 years, according to experts. This has resulted in historically low reservoir levels at Lake Powell and Lake Mead.
According to a federal table, Wyoming is allotted only 14 percent of the flows in the Colorado River system each year. The State of Colorado is allowed nearly 51.75 percent for consumptive use. Utah is allotted 23 percent and New Mexico 11 percent.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Wyoming governor said that he is confident that the newly formed committee “will provide invaluable insight to the decisions of myself and State Engineer Brandon Gebhart as our state defends it interests in Wyoming’s portion of the Colorado River Basin.”
Public information shared during the meetings and other documents concerning Wyoming’s involvement in the ongoing developments can be found on the State Engineer’s web site at the Colorado River Advisory Committee page.
https://seo.wyo.gov/wyoming-colorado-river-advisory-committee
September 7, 2023 |
Photo – Meet the Speaker Poster – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The Rawlins Water and Wastewater Supervisor has been selected to speak at a women’s empowerment conference in Cheyenne.
During Tuesday night’s Rawlins city council meeting, City Manager Tom Sarvey said the city’s Water and Wastewater Supervisor, Stevie Osborn, was chosen to be a panelist at the 8th annual Connect2Women conference. Sarvey said he values Osborn’s dedication and contribution to the city of Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100531/0907_Women-Conference-1.mp3Connect2Women is the largest of all women’s conference in the state of Wyoming. The annual Connect2Women conference is designed to develop women’s skills and confidence and promote unity among women in the Cowboy State. The 2023 Connect2Women conference will feature a panel discussion with 16 professional women who will talk about their experiences with apprentice programs within the state.
Osborn said the Connect2Women conference organizers were looking for women in the rural water industry to be on the 2023 discussion panel. Osborn said Wyoming Association of Rural Water Systems Apprenticeship Coordinator Riata Walker recommended her to the Connect2Women organizers.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100534/0907_Women-Conference-2.mp3Osborn explained how she got involved in the water and wastewater industry. Osborn said she was convinced to take an open treatment plant operator position by city employee, Carly Brown. Osborn said she found her calling in water treatment.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100536/0907_Women-Conference-3.mp3Osborn said she had no treatment plant operator experience before being selected for the position. Osborn said she discovered that water treatment was her passion after being offered a chance to participate in the Wyoming Association of Rural Water Systems, or WARWS, apprenticeship program.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100538/0907_Women-Conference-4.mp3Osborn said Rawlins has a unique water delivery system. The water and wastewater supervisor said she really enjoys the fact that the city of Rawlins draws its water from natural sources.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100541/0907_Women-Conference-5.mp3Osborn said she needed to obtain certifications through the state to be a water and wastewater operator. Osborn said Rawlins has two different systems, one for water treatment and another for wastewater, each requiring a different license. The water supervisor said the water treatment plant requires her to hold the second highest license offered in Wyoming. Osborn said becoming qualified for a level 3 water treatment certification was very difficult.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100543/0907_Women-Conference-6.mp3Osborn said she was extremely honored to have been chosen to speak at the 2023 Connect2Women conference. However, Osborn said she isn’t a one woman show. Osborn said the city’s utilities and water treatment staff allowed her to perform her job to the best of her abilities.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100545/0907_Women-Conference-7.mp3The 8th Annual Connect2Women conference is September 14th and 15th at the Little America Hotel and Resort in Cheyenne. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to www.connect2women.org. Tickets cost $100 for a single day pass or $180 to attend the entire two-day event.
September 7, 2023 |
Photo – Portland State logo – Courtesy Wikipedia
In sports, Wyoming’s opponent this week, Portland State, will try to regroup and recover from its rough opening game last Saturday. The Vikings endured an 81-7 loss to Oregon.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100504/0907_Oregon-Ducks.mp3As tough was the game was on Portland State, true to tradition, the Ducks mascot endured 546 pushups. After every Ducks’ score, the Mascot does one push-up for every point on the board. 8 + 15 + 22 + 29 + 36 + 43 + 50 + 57 + 64 + 67 + 74 + 81 = 546. A post-game meme showed the Oregon mascot flat on his back in the end zone not moving. “RIP Duck,” the caption read. “Cause of death, 81 points worth of pushups.”
One Portland player fared even worse than the opposing mascot. Vikings head coach Bruce Barnum said the team did not have any serious injuries, except for one player who had his “ear ripped off.”
“Not the whole ear. Partial ear detachment,” Barnum clarified. “I think it was from when he got his helmet knocked off, and I think his ear didn’t come out of his helmet.” Barnum said the unnamed player will not play in Week 2.
Portland State was tasked with facing one of its most challenging opponents in school history. The Vikings got off to a good start with 126 yards of offense and a touchdown in the first quarter. Their offense stalled out from there, putting up only 21 yards in the second. They were out of the game from there.
With the game out of hand, PSU had a host of young players on the field in the second half, both redshirt freshmen and true freshmen. Coach Barnum said the freshman who saw time against the Ducks “earned their stripes.”
Barnum said despite the beatdown, he did not hear one negative comment on the sideline. “That was pretty cool, and it tells me we have a shot,” the Vikings coach said.
The Vikings will regroup for another non-conference game against another FBS level opponent this week—Wyoming.
The Vikings are 4-45 all-time against FBS-level competition. Wins have come over Hawai’i, New Mexico, Washington State and North Texas.
The Wyoming Cowboys are coming off a thrilling double-overtime victory over Texas Tech Saturday, stunning the Red Raiders inside the War. Head Coach Craig Bohl said he and his staff are cautioning their team not to go into Saturday’s game against the Vikings with the attitude that it will be an easy contest.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/07100443/0907_Coach-Bohl.mp3The Wyoming-Portland State game kicks off Saturday afternoon at two. Bigfoot 99 will be on the air at 12:30 with the pregame show.
September 6, 2023 |
Photo – Rocky Mountain Power logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
Wyoming lawmakers are considering new legislation to fight back against rising electricity bills targeting state residents.
As the state’s largest utility company, Rocky Mountain Power, seeks what amounts to a 30% increase a month on the electric bills its customers receive each month, a legislative committee is considering an assortment of bills that would hem in the utility company.
Members of the Joint Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions Committee are mulling draft bills they say are intended to address utility rate increases and the factors driving the hikes.
Possible legislation that could turn up next year includes a one-year moratorium on industrial solar and wind facilities. Another would shield Wyoming ratepayers from helping to pay for facilities that primarily serve customers outside the state that use power generated by Wyoming wind.
Driving the issue is Rocky Mountain Power’s push to build hundreds of miles of wind turbines across Wyoming that will serve its customers in the Pacific northwest, but not here.
RMP’s plan represents a double-whammy for the Cowboy State. If the company’s massive rate request is approved, consumers here will bear a higher monthly cost to heat their homes so RMP can provide wind energy to a state like Washington that has denied port access to Wyoming coal bound for the Asian rim. The pain doesn’t stop there. Wyoming rate payers will see big increases in their electric bill while also losing out on the tax benefits from royalty payments on coal have underwritten social costs in Wyoming for generations.
Rocky Mountain Power is proposing two rate increases. One is a permanent 21.6% increase. RMP argues that it will produce $140.3 million dollars to serve Wyoming customers. The other hike is a temporary 7.6% adjustment RMP says is needed to recover over half of $90 million dollars in losses it incurred because of extreme weather events. The smaller increase would sunset in July of 2024.
Both rate increases need the approval of the Wyoming Public Service Commission. If passed, the two rate increases would increase the average monthly bill to RMP customers by about $20 a month, or $250 a year.
The Public Service Commission will hold an evidentiary hearing on the general rate case beginning Oct. 25 in Cheyenne. That proceeding will continue over several days, according to the agency. The commission is scheduled to hold a similar hearing regarding the energy cost adjustment request on Dec. 19.
Governor Mark Gordon has sounded the alarm about the rate increase. The next public comment meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 18 at Central Wyoming College in Riverton.
While many state residents will be hurt by the increase, industries also will be hurt. Wyoming’s largest industrial facilities, such as the trona mines in neighboring Sweetwater County, consume approximately 70% of the electricity that Rocky Mountain power provides to the state.
Natrona County Senator Charles Scott is writing several bills addressing the issue for next year’s session. “I think we’re going to have to possibly do some radical things here,” Scott said.
One possible bill coming from the Corporations Committee could prohibit charging Wyoming ratepayers for PacifiCorp facilities in the state — wind farms and interstate electric lines, for example — that primarily or entirely serve the utility’s out-of-state customers.
More bills are coming that would soften the blow to Wyoming consumers.
The Joint Corporations Committee‘s next meeting is scheduled for Oct. 26 and 27 in Cheyenne.
The next public comment meeting before the Wyoming Public Service Commission is scheduled for Central Wyoming College in Riverton on September 18th at 5:30 p.m.
September 6, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Detention Center in Rawlins – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office is working on an agreement to house state prison inmates in the county jail.
The Wyoming Department of Corrections is reaching out to county law enforcement agencies to help alleviate staffing concerns within the state prison. Yesterday, Sheriff Alex Bakken told the Board of Carbon County Commissioners that the WDOC has asked him to lodge state prisoners in the Carbon County Jail. Sheriff Bakken said he needs to see a finalized contract before a deal is made.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095040/0906_State-Inmates-1.mp3Sheriff Bakken said the Wyoming State Penitentiary is operating with less than half of the required staff. The sheriff said the county can take advantage of the situation to ensure the contract is favorable for Carbon County. Sheriff Bakken said he won’t allow more than half of the county jail to be used by state inmates.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095042/0906_State-Inmates-2.mp3Sheriff Bakken said the Carbon County Jail has yet to return to the number of inmates seen pre-COVID. The Sheriff said the jail has plenty of room for state prisoners. Sheriff Bakken said when County Attorney Ashley Davis approves the Wyoming Department of Corrections contract, it will have a beneficial financial impact on the county.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095045/0906_State-Inmates-3.mp3Sheriff Bakken said the county won’t be financially responsible for the state inmates. Commissioner John Johnson said money shouldn’t be the only reason for the county to accept the Department of Corrections’ offer. Sheriff Bakken and Chairwoman Sue Jones agreed with Commissioner Johnson when he said helping the state agency is the morally correct decision.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095048/0906_State-Inmates-4.mp3Chairwoman Jones said Goshen County has a similar agreement with the Wyoming Department of Corrections. The commission chairwoman said the contract makes good financial sense for the county.
September 6, 2023 |
Photo – Kid’s Family Tree Template – Courtesy freepik.com
The Carbon County School District Two Board of Cooperative Educational Services is hosting a free genealogy workshop in Saratoga next week.
On Friday, September 15th, at the Platte Valley Community Center, Doug Brecheisen and his wife Theresa will guide people through the steps necessary to research their family trees. Brecheisen said he is personally acquainted with BOCES Coordinator Stacy Erickson. Brecheisen said Erickson suggested he and his wife use their experience and love of genealogy to help people map out their family history.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095012/0906_Family-History-1.mp3Using a free computer program provided by the Genealogical Society of Utah called FamilySearch, Brecheisen said users can explore several different genealogical records, including the National Archives, for distant relatives. Brecheisen said with some basic information about your closest deceased relative, he can search through the records to see if a family tree already exists.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095015/0906_Family-History-2.mp3Brecheisen said he’ll also use a website called Ancestry.com to create family trees for attendees of next Friday’s class. However, unlike the website FamilySearch, Ancestry.com requires a paid membership to access its genealogy services.
Brecheisen said he also uses a website called MyHeritage. While MyHeritage is not free to use, Brecheisen said the website has a worthwhile feature. He said MyHeritage uses AI to determine when a photograph was taken.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095017/0906_Family-History-3.mp3Brecheisen said next Friday’s Family History Class is open to people in any stage of the genealogy process. From people just starting out to those who have already begun researching their family trees, Brecheisen said he can provide guidance.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095020/0906_Family-History-4.mp3Brecheisen said he can assist people who may have hit a roadblock in their genealogy research. If he and his wife can’t help, Brecheisen said he can reach out to experts.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095023/0906_Family-History-5.mp3Brecheisen said he and his wife became interested in genealogy after being called on by the Church of Latter-Day Saints. Members of the church are assigned a calling from church officials. Brecheisen’s wife Theresa explained why she enjoys creating family trees.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095025/0906_Family-History-6.mp3The Carbon County School District Two’s BOCES Family History Class is next Friday, September 15th. The class will be from 6:30 to 8:30 pm in the Shively Room at the Platte Valley Community Center. Attendees are asked to bring an internet capable device, such as a phone, laptop, or tablet.
To register, call Stacy Erickson at 339-3033 or email her at serickson@crb2.org. The class is free to attend.
September 6, 2023 |
Photo – Flu Shot Poster – Courtesy va.gov
Carbon County Public Health will offer drive-up flu shots later this month.
During yesterday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Public Health Nurse Manager Amanda Brown said she would like to provide flu vaccines to residents in their cars. Brown said people may still choose to receive flu shots inside of a county public health office, as well.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095027/0906_Flu-Shots-1.mp3Brown said the first drive through flu vaccine event in Rawlins is scheduled for September 30th. Brown said Carbon County Public Health would like to hold the event at the county fairgrounds.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095029/0906_Flu-Shots-2.mp3Brown said Carbon County Public Health intends to hold four flu vaccine events, two in Rawlins and two in Saratoga. Brown said the parking lot of the Platte Valley Community Center would be an ideal location for the vaccination event. If more dates are needed, Brown said Public Health will increase the number of flu vaccine events.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095032/0906_Flu-Shots-3.mp3Brown said the population of Rawlins and Saratoga makes the drive through vaccination workable. Brown said Carbon County Public Health is planning on holding traditional flu vaccination events in every other town within the county. The nurse manager said if it is available, a new COVID vaccine will be administered with the flu shots.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095034/0906_Flu-Shots-4.mp3Carbon County Health Officer Dr. Duane Ables said COVID cases have started to rise. Dr. Ables said the nationwide COVID death rate has increased from 1.4% to 2%. Dr. Ables said Carbon County has had one COVID hospitalization in the past two weeks. The county health officer recommended that residents stay current on their flu and COVID vaccinations.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095037/0906_Flu-Shots-5.mp3Brown said she’ll provide the board with more information on the Carbon County Public Health’s vaccination events when it is available.
September 6, 2023 |
Photo – In Memorandum Paul Roach – Courtesy gowyo.com
In sports, legendary Wyoming football coach Paul Roach passed away over the weekend.
Roach led the Athletic Department from 1987-1996, an era of growth and success for UW sports.
He was the only man in UW history to serve double duty. Roach served as the university’s athletic director and as head football coach simultaneously. From 1987 through 1996, Roach served as the school’s AD. Then at 58 years old, he stepped in as head football coach from 1987-90, taking over the shattered football program after Dennis Erickson left Laramie after one season for Washington State.
UW Athletics Director Tom Burman said, “Coach Roach was so much more than a damn good coach. He was caring, smart, disciplined, funny, but most of all, a great communicator.”
Burman said Roach had a rare skill, communicating directly without an ego.
As athletics director, Roach guided Wyoming’s total athletic program through tremendous success. During his time as AD, the school produced some 280 academic all-conference performers in all sports. His vision helped establish the Rochelle Athletics Center.
As head football coach, he took over a program that was 27-32 in the five previous seasons and led the Cowboys to back-to-back Western Athletic Conference Championships in 1987 and 1988, going undefeated in league play both years. He was named the league’s Coach of the Year following each of those seasons.
September 6, 2023 |
Photo – Coach Bohl – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Wyoming Cowboy football team, coming off Saturday night’s upset win over nationally ranked Texas Tech, began work for week 2 yesterday.
Next up, at the War this Saturday, is Portland State. The Vikings fell to the Oregon Ducks on Saturday, 81-to-7.
Wyoming Head Coach Craig Bohl said he was surprised by the final score.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095007/0906_Coach-Bohl-1.mp3The Cowboys are coming off a great overtime win over Texas State that was televised nationally Saturday night. Coach Bohl said he’ll be looking for continuing improvement this week from the Cowboys, who started slow Saturday night, but ultimately overcame a 17-point early deficit and found a way to win.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/06095010/0906_Coach-Bohl-2.mp3Coach Bohl said his squad leaned on their pride and conditioning to overcome the big early deficit to hold the Red Raiders. After the sloppy start, the Cowboy defense held one of the nation’s top offenses in check in the final three quarters.
A balanced offensive attack that featured 171 yards rushing and 149 yards passing lifted the Pokes to the win.
The performance earned attention in the national rankings released on Tuesday. The Cowboys appeared in both rankings for the first time since the 2016 season. Wyoming earned three points in the Associated Press poll and eight points in the USA Today Coaches’ Poll
Saturday’s matchup with Portland State will be the first-ever meeting between the two teams. This is the third-straight season that the Cowboys have faced a member of the Big Sky Conference, after defeating Northern Colorado last season and downing Montana State in 2021.
Kickoff is set for two p.m. with the pregame show starting here on Bigfoot 99 at 12:30.
September 5, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming Highway Patrol Badge – Bigfoot99 file photo
On Sunday afternoon shortly around 12:40, Wyoming Highway Patrol and local law enforcement agencies responded to a call about a man with a gun near milepost 22 on US 287.
According to a release about the incident, the caller told dispatch that a relative shot her and another family member. The victims fled towards Rawlins, followed by the assailant in a separate vehicle. The caller reported the assailant rammed the back of their vehicle and was continuing to shoot at them.
Troopers intercepted the vehicles near milepost 14. Both vehicles stopped and the suspect surrendered to troopers without incident.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) transported the victims to Memorial Hospital of Carbon County. The seriousness of the second victim’s injuries required they be further transported to a trauma center.
Troopers arrested the suspect for attempted murder and charges are pending through the Carbon County Attorney’s Office.
No names were released in the statement from the highway patrol.
September 5, 2023 |
Photo – Wyatt Fluty mugshot – Bigfoot99 file photo
The manhunt for Wyatt Fluty ended with a police-involved shooting during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Two weeks ago, Wyatt Fluty was arrested in Sturgis, South Dakota. Fluty was sought by the Rawlins Police Department for the July 27th theft of a vehicle from the Rawlins Municipal Airport.
On August 9th, Fluty was involved in a shoot-out with law enforcement officers during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Fluty allegedly opened fire on a South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper. The officer was not injured, but Fluty was hit by return fire. His injuries were not life threatening.
The incident was caught on video by a motorcyclist in town for the annual bike rally. The video starts in the middle of the encounter between Fluty and the trooper. It shows Fluty behind the steering wheel of the cruiser as a trooper approaches the vehicle aiming his service revolver.
According to the South Dakota news website, Hub City Radio, Fluty is facing six charges. Fluty is charged with two counts of attempted first degree murder, one for the officer and the other for an unidentified private citizen.
Fluty is also charged with commission of a felony with a firearm, attempted grand theft, unauthorized ingestion of a controlled substance, and illegally being in possession of a firearm with a prior felony.
Fluty will face a 50-year prison sentence if convicted of the attempted first-degree murder of the state trooper.
Fluty appeared in a Meade County circuit courtroom last Thursday, August 31st, to hear the charges against him. Fluty will remain in jail until his next court appearance on September 20th, where he will enter a plea.
Fluty was on the run from the Rawlins Police Department. On the evening of July 27th, officers responded to a call of a suspicious vehicle in the enclosed lot of a business on the 800 block of Airport Road in Rawlins. Fluty was seen behind the wheel of a vehicle reported stolen in Colorado. When officers attempted to apprehend Fluty, the suspect drove through a chain link fence and into a ditch near the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course. Fluty escaped on foot.
As officers searched the area around the golf course, Fluty allegedly stole a red 1991 Chevrolet half-ton pickup truck from the parking lot of the Rawlins Municipal Airport. The truck was reported to contain several guns and boxes of ammo. Rawlins PD were unable to locate Fluty or the stolen truck. A lookout was issued for Fluty in the surrounding states.
It is unclear, at this time, if Fluty used the weapons from the truck against the South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper.
In a written statement provided to Bigfoot99, Public Information Officer for the Attorney General’s Office Tony Mangan said, “The State Division of Criminal Investigation is investigating the officer involved shooting aspect of the case – which DCI always does.”
September 5, 2023 |
Photo – Ralph Arlen Glenn – Courtesy Casada Funeral Home
Rawlins officials remember former mayor and council member, Ralph Glenn.
On Thursday, August 17th, Ralph Arlen Glenn passed away at the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County. Glenn was 90 years old. A longtime member of the Rawlins city council and one-time mayor, Glenn is well remembered by his friends and colleagues.
DeBari Martinez served on the Rawlins city council with Glenn. Martinez said he spent a lot of time with Glenn. Despite occasionally being at odds politically, Martinez said their relationship was always amicable.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115736/0905_Ralph-Glenn-1.mp3Martinez is the longest serving Rawlins city council member. In July, the Wyoming Association of Municipalities awarded Martinez with an Honorary Member Award. Martinez said Glenn’s focus while on the council was taking care of city workers. Martinez said Glenn proposed creating a voluntary retirement savings plan.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115739/0905_Ralph-Glenn-2.mp3Martinez said Glenn’s retirement plan wasn’t well received because city workers didn’t want to contribute to the program. Martinez said Glenn’s idea laid the groundwork for the city to affiliate with a state-run retirement program, ensuring that retiring city employees are compensated for their service.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115743/0905_Ralph-Glenn-3.mp3Glenn also spearheaded the creation of a place for residents to board livestock within Rawlins city limits. Martinez said the area on the southeast side of the city was unused. Thanks to Glenn’s idea, the city has valuable stable space referred to as the Glenn Addition.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115745/0905_Ralph-Glenn-4.mp3Martinez served as the mayor of Rawlins from 2001 to 2003. Martinez said during his time in office, he and Glenn battled politically. Glenn was elected the following year and served as mayor from 2003 to 2005.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115747/0905_Ralph-Glenn-5.mp3Martinez said during Glenn’s time as mayor, he maintained order in the city council chambers. Despite not facing a major crisis, Martinez said Glenn made a fine mayor.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115749/0905_Ralph-Glenn-6.mp3Martinez said before Glenn passed, the two former mayors would keep one another up to date on what was happening in the city. Martinez said Glenn was a good person and is sorely missed.
Scott Glenn, one of Ralph Glenn’s four sons, said his father dedicated his time to taking care of city employees.
During tonight’s city council meeting, Rawlins Mayor Terry Weickum will hold a moment of silence for the former mayor and councilman.
September 5, 2023 |
Photo – 2022 Memorial Stair Climb at Outlaw Stadium – Courtesy raceroster.com
A Rawlins resident is arranging a memorial event to mark the memory of 9/11.
Monday, September 11th, marks the 22nd anniversary of the terrorist attacks that killed 2,977 Americans. Every year since that terrible day, Tink Day has personally arranged a memorial service to honor those who died. This year, Day said she’ll have a small service on the south lawn of the Carbon County Courthouse in Rawlins at 5:30 pm.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115754/0905_Sept-11-Memorial-1.mp3Day said Rawlins resident, Sandra Sullivan, typically sings the National Anthem during her September 11th memorial events.
Because September 11th falls on a Monday this year, Day said the memorial service needed to be less ambitious. Last year, Day arranged a 5K marathon and stair climb at the Rawlins High School Outlaw Stadium football field. Participants in the stair climb walked up the stadium stairs 22 times to represent the 110 floors of the Twin Towers. Day said the event raised $4,000 for Will’s Warriors, a Cystic Fibrosis charity.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115756/0905_Sept-11-Memorial-2.mp3Day is a former first responder. Day said during last year’s 9/11 memorial event, she and other emergency service personnel performed a flag relay on the Rawlins High School football field.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115759/0905_Sept-11-Memorial-3.mp3Day said this year’s event is more in line with her original idea of having people gather to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Since the first anniversary of the terrorist attacks, Day said she wanted to honor the people that protect us and to remind everyone what it means to be an American.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115802/0905_Sept-11-Memorial-4.mp3Day said the current political divide has made people forget how great our country truly is. She said despite the ups and downs of our society, America remains a beacon of hope and liberty.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/05115805/0905_Sept-11-Memorial-5.mp3Tink Day’s memorial service is Monday, September 11th at 5:30pm on the south side of the Carbon County Courthouse.
September 5, 2023 |
Photo – Charging Electric Vehicle – Courtesy Bureau of Labor Statistics
Wyoming lawmakers laid back a bill that would increase a diesel fuel tax due to concerns over interstate commerce and whether the increase was substantial enough to generate sufficient revenue for the state.
During the first day of a two-day meeting in Casper, legislators on the Joint Transportation, Highways and Military Affairs Committee also voted 13-1 to sponsor an electric vehicle tax bill, which would create a $200 annual fee for EV owners and a $100 annual fee for plug-in hybrid vehicle owners.
If approved by the full Wyoming Legislature during next year’s budget session, it would be one of the highest EV registration fees in the nation, as well as create one of the highest taxes on the kilowatt-per-hour electricity charge for electric vehicles.
The biggest concern behind the bill was requiring EV owners to pay for the road damage they cause. The battery-powered vehicles being pushed by the Biden Administration at the federal level are substantially heavier than their gas-powered counterparts. So-called eco-friendly vehicles cause more wear-and-tear to roads, some legislators argued creating a financial burden for states.
The bill was amended to include a four-cent tax per kilowatt hour charge — half a cent higher than what was originally proposed.
September 5, 2023 | Photo – Fans storm the field – Courtesy gowyo.com Wyoming fans stormed Jonah Field at War Memorial Stadium late Saturday night as the Cowboys overcame a rain delay, a horrible 14-0 start and a big Texas Tech defensive line to win the season opener 35-33 in a double-overtime thriller. After an […]
September 1, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Courthouse – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Saratoga man accused of providing a fatal dose of fentanyl to two friends has been found not guilty on all charges.
Yesterday, August 31st, Max Schneider, 23, was acquitted of one count of delivery of a controlled substance and two counts of involuntary manslaughter.
Following three days of witness testomony, Carbon County Prosecutor Sarah Chavez Harkins failed to convince a jury that Schneider was responsible for the deaths of 27-year-old Megan Cassidee Wingo and her boyfriend, 28-year-old Richard Heap.
On the morning of February 4th, Wingo and Heap were found unresponsive in their Saratoga home. Fentanyl overdose was listed as the cause of death. A toxicology report on Wingo showed that she had 11 times the fatal amount of fentanyl in her bloodstream. A small baggie with green alien heads printed on it was found with the victims. A test revealed the baggie contained nearly pure counterfeit fentanyl.
The previous morning, February 3rd, Schneider told friends that he discovered a baggie matching the description of the one found with the victims in the restroom of the restaurant where he worked. That evening, Schneider said he gave the baggie of what he assumed to be drugs to Wingo.
Schneider was arrested two weeks later following a DCI investigation.
The three charges Schneider was facing could have resulted in a sentence of more than 20 years in prison.
September 1, 2023 |
Photo – Wind Turbines – Bigfoot99 file photo
Rocky Mountain Power’s proposed rate hike increase will have Wyoming power using paying around 30% more per month if approved later this year.
Households and businesses will feel the pinch as PacificCorp’s top brass, including billionaire Warren Buffett, reap the windfall.
That was the consensus of two dozen who spoke at a public comment hearing held by the Wyoming Public Service Commission last week in Casper.
The consensus was unanimous. Elected officials, business owners, retirees and ranchers all expressed the same opinion—Rocky Mountain Power is not seeking a fair rate increase but is looking to gouge Wyoming residents for its recent expansion into wind energy.
While RMP officials defended the fairness of their request for a big rate increase, citizens attending last week’s meeting said the company’s shift to wind energy at the expense of Wyoming coal was driving the big rate hike.
The consensus was that RMP’s shift to wind power and its associated costs will be a burden on residents and businesses. RMP’s push for wind power represents a double-whammy for the Cowboy State. Consumers here will bear a higher monthly cost to heat their homes so RMP can provide wind energy to customers on the Pacific coast. Meanwhile Wyoming will lose out on sales of coal for traditional electric-generating plants and the royalty payments that underwrite cost of many state services.
Representative Clark Smith of Rock Springs stated the obvious. “Rocky Mountain Power has been pulled by a radical left-wing agenda to invest in unreliable [renewable energy] generation,” the Sweetwater County Republican told the Public Utilities board members.
Company officials blamed the increase on the cost of fossil fuels, not on the cost of building the wind power infrastructure for customers on the Pacific coast.
Rocky Mountain Power is the largest regulated monopoly utility in the state serving about 150,000 customers.
The company said it needs to increase rates in the state by an average of 21.6% to cover an extra annual $140.2 million in expenses necessary to serve its Wyoming customers. Some will pay more.
Natrona County Commission Vice Chairman Dave North told the Public Service Board, “We’re going to lose a lot of businesses in the state when we start raising those costs.”
The Public Service Commission will announce a decision about the rate hike increase by the end of the year.
The next hearing regarding the rate case will be at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 18 at Central Wyoming College in Riverton.
September 1, 2023 |
Photo – HEM Miner’s Mascot Logo – Courtesy WYO Preps
Hanna students are asking to decorate the windows of local businesses with school pride artwork. Homecoming celebrations begin next week for students of the H-E-M School. H-E-M Music Teacher Kit Felton said the school has arranged a week’s worth of activities for students to participate in. Felton said on Wednesday the kids will dress up in the style of their favorite music genre and adorn the town in blue and orange, the H-E-M Miners’ colors.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111345/0901_HEM-1.mp3Felton said using special markers, H-E-M students will show their school spirit on the windows of participating businesses. The H-E-M music teacher also said students will suspend colored banners from the Adams Street bridge.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111348/0901_HEM-2.mp3Felton said H-E-M students have decorated the bridge in the past, but they have not done the window drawings before. Felton said several Hanna businesses have agreed to have the students decorate their windows.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111351/0901_HEM-3.mp3Felton said due to logistical concerns, the students will not be decorating people’s homes this year. The H-E-M music teacher said residents may show their Miner’s pride on their own.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111354/0901_HEM-4.mp3Felton said the homecoming activities won’t stop on Wednesday. The H-E-M music teacher said the school has something planned for every day of the week.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111357/0901_HEM-5.mp3Felton said next Saturday’s homecoming dance is for students from grades nine through twelve and will go from 8:00 to 10:30 pm. The dress code is semi-formal.
To have HEM students decorate your business on Wednesday, September 6th, call the HEM School at 325-6545.
September 1, 2023 |
Photo – United Methodist Church in Medicine Bow – Courtesy United Methodist Church Facebook page
After two years of being closed, the Medicine Bow United Methodist Church is reopening with a new pastor.
This Sunday, September 3rd, the United Methodist Church in Medicine Bow is holding a meet and greet with Pastor Adam Barron. Beginning at 11:00am, the church will provide food and games for the community. Pastor Barron said the event is meant to remind people that the church exists. The pastor said Sunday’s event will feature free activities and food.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111400/0901_Med-Bow-Pastor-1.mp3Two weeks ago, Pastor Barron took over the United Methodist Church in Medicine Bow. The church was closed for roughly two years after the previous pastor retired. Barron said after two years of vacancy, the 50-year-old church building needed work to make it ready to hold services again.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111403/0901_Med-Bow-Pastor-2.mp3To save money, the pastor said he did most of the work himself.
Pastor Barron isn’t a Wyoming native. The pastor said while he’s lived in Medicine Bow for half a decade, he was born in Georgia. Pastor Barron said his previous career brought him to the University of Wyoming in Laramie where he fell in love with the area.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111406/0901_Med-Bow-Pastor-3.mp3Pastor Barron said he became involved with the Methodist Church while living in Georgia. After moving to Medicine Bow, Pastor Barron said he received his divinity degree from Liberty University, an online Christian college in Virginia. Afterwards, the pastor said Methodist Church Wyoming District Superintendent Mark Calhoun offered him a chance to reopen the shuttered church in Medicine Bow.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111409/0901_Med-Bow-Pastor-4.mp3On top of his bachelor’s degree in divinity, Pastor Barron said he also has an associate degree in fire science from Casper University. Pastor Barron said he is a volunteer firefighter and EMT for the town of Medicine Bow.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111412/0901_Med-Bow-Pastor-5.mp3The meet and greet for Pastor Adam Barron is 11:00 am this Sunday, September 3rd, at the United Methodist Church at 512 Wyoming Street in Medicine Bow. Pastor Barron said regular church services will begin again on Sunday, September 17th.
September 1, 2023 |
Photo – Car Show Poster – Courtesy Rawlins Rehabilitation and Wellness
The Rawlins nursing home will host a car show and barbecue fundraiser next week.
Starting at noon on Saturday, September 9th, Rawlins Rehabilitation and Wellness will hold a car show and barbecue. Activities Director Joseph Madrid said the car show will generate awareness of the nursing home and give residents a fun activity to do on the facility grounds.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111329/0901_Car-Show-1.mp3Madrid said next Saturday’s car show will last four hours. The activities director said the antique and collector automobiles will be displayed in a cordoned off section of the nursing home’s parking lot.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111333/0901_Car-Show-2.mp3Madrid said the car show is free for both attendees and exhibitors. The activities director said prizes will be given out during the event. Madrid said winners will be decided by popular vote.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111335/0901_Car-Show-3.mp3During the car show, Madrid said Rawlins Rehabilitation and Wellness staff will cook and serve burgers to attendees. Madrid said a burger with chips, a drink, and a side will cost $8. The activities director said HF Sinclair is donating all the food for the event.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111339/0901_Car-Show-4.mp3Madrid said he is not only the activities director, but also does marketing for Rawlins Rehabilition and Wellness. Madrid said he had the idea to host a car show to provide the nursing home’s residents with an entertaining activity. Madrid said he posted his car show idea on Facebook where it garnered a positive response. The activities director said also serving food during the event was a way to bring in more attendees.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/01111342/0901_Car-Show-5.mp3The Rawlins Rehabilitation and Wellness car show and barbecue is next Saturday, September 9th, at noon at 542 16th Street. Madrid said to register on the Rawlins Rehabilitation and Wellness Facebook page to display your vehicle for free during the event.
August 31, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Fire Protection District Logo – Bigfoot 99 file photo The Board of Carbon County Commissioners has agreed to fund the newly formed Fire Protection District until it begins to receive tax funds. At the August 15th, county commissioners meeting, Carbon County Fire Warden John Rutherford asked the […]
August 31, 2023 | Photo – Newly installed cornhole boards at Washington Park in Rawlins – Courtesy City of Rawlins The city of Rawlins has installed five new, permanent cornhole boards at Washington Park. City residents have a new outdoor activity thanks to the city’s parks department. Five concrete boards for sack toss competition have […]
August 31, 2023 | Photo – I-80 Ribbon Cutting Poster – Courtesy WYDOT WYDOT will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of commercial safety projects on I-80. At 10:00 am on Wednesday, September 20th, the Wyoming Department of Transportation will celebrate the opening of the Interstate 80 Winter Freight Project at Quealy […]
August 31, 2023 | Photo – LSR Museum BBQ Poster – Courtesy Little Snake River Museum Next weekend, the Little Snake River Museum will hold a community barbecue with music and games. On Sunday, September 10th, the Little Snake River Museum in Savery will provide free food and fun activities for the community. Little Snake […]
August 31, 2023 |
Photo – Steamboat – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Gem City is set for the opening day of Wyoming football. The Red Raiders of Texas Tech fly into Laramie later today. Head coach Joey McGuire is worried about Laramie’s elevation of 7,165 feet.
Cowboy head coach Craig Bohl appeared relaxed and confident at this week’s news conference. Bohl clicked through the standout names on his roster and seemed more concerned about the size of the Red Raiders when they come out for Saturday evening’s matchup at the War.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/31112555/0831_Coach-Bohl-1.mp3The head coach expressed confidence in the team he and his coaching staff are putting on the field this year. The Cowboy roster contains a lot of familiar names and battle-tested players.
https://bigfoot99radiowebsitedatastorage.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/31112559/0831_Coach-Bohl-2.mp3Bohl said he has enjoyed working with this year’s Cowboy team, but started off the news conference saying that you really don’t know what kind of squad you have until about the second quarter of the opening game of the season.
August 30, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County District Court Room – Bigfoot99 file photo The trial of Saratoga man accused of providing a fatal dose of fentanyl-laced drugs to two friends in town began yesterday. Jury selection occurred in Rawlins on Monday. Max Schneider is charged with one count of delivery of a controlled […]
August 30, 2023 | Photo – Wyoming Hunger Initiative Logo – Courtesy nohungerwyo.org Wyoming Hunger Initiative spearheaded by First Lady Jennie Gordon has donated $15,000 to fight hunger in Carbon County. Three Carbon County organizations received grant funding through the First Lady’s Hunger Initiative program. Carbon County Senior Services, Valley Village Childcare, and St. Vincent […]
August 30, 2023 | Photo – Hand pumping fuel – Bigfoot99 file photo Gas prices, which have been trending upward for a month, may go even higher ahead of Labor Day Weekend as Hurricane Idalia bears down on Florida. Gas prices have been hovering around $3.82 nationally, according to AAA’s latest update. CNN added more perspective this week, […]
August 30, 2023 | Photo – Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over logo – Courtesy nhtsa.gov In addition to paying more for gasoline over the Labor Day holiday, drivers should keep in mind that the Wyoming Highway Patrol is stepping up its campaign against impaired driving. According to national statistics, 13,384 people were killed in […]
August 30, 2023 | Photo – Geological Survey Map – Courtesy WSGS The U.S. Geological Survey, in conjunction with the Wyoming State Geological Survey, is conducting low-level helicopter surveys west of Laramie. Areas of Carbon County from Interstate 80 to the Colorado border are included in the survey project as far west as Wood Mountain […]
August 30, 2023 | Photo – Wyoming Cowboy Football Team – Courtesy gowyo.com Anticipation is running high for the start of the Wyoming Cowboys 2023 football season. Kickoff against Texas Tech is set for 5:30 Saturday in a game to be televised nationally on CBS. Wyoming head coach Craig Bohl is approaching the start to […]
August 29, 2023 | Photo – WHP Badge – Bigfoot99 file photo More information has been released about the crash on Snowy Range Road that sent two people to the hospital. Last Wednesday, August 23rd, at 5:32 pm, the Wyoming Highway Patrol responded to the intersection of Highway 130 and Brush Creek Ranch Road. Highway […]
August 29, 2023 | Photo – Boozer Creek on the North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo Wyoming will receive a small share of nearly $65 million in flood mitigation assistance that FEMA will also split with North and South Dakota. A project in the Platte Valley south of Saratoga is among the successful applicants […]
August 29, 2023 | Photo – Dickenson with Grumpy – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 When it comes to a lost dog, hope never fades. A Saratoga man found his lost dog after four days of searching. Albert Dickenson was reunited with his 3-year-old English Setter, Grumpy, after the dog was lost last week. Dickenson said […]
August 29, 2023 | Photo – Wyoming Department Of Corrections Badge – Courtesy WDOC Senate File 120, which became law on July 1 this year, is having a positive impact on former felons. Since Enrolled Act 94 became law earlier this summer, hundreds of former felons moved quickly to use the law to restore their […]
August 29, 2023 | Photo – Artemis Langford – Courtesy Linkedin A houseful of sorority sisters at the University of Wyoming will be forced to accommodate a 6’2, 275-pound trans-identified male after the federal District Court rejected a suit brought by six of the female members. Women from Kappa Kappa Gamma (KKG) sued the national […]
August 29, 2023 | Photo – Texas Tech Football Logo – Courtesy Wikipedia Red Raiders head coach Joey McGuire will leave his Corvette parked in the garage in Lubbock when comes to Laramie this week. The Red Raiders will touch down in Wyoming on Thursday, leaving themselves 48-plus hours to acclimate to the elevation before […]
August 28, 2023 | Photo – Wagonhound Road on I-80 – Courtesy wyomingrestareas.com Travelers through Carbon County on Interstate 80 today should be aware that the Wagonhound Rest Area at Exit 267 will be closed today for repairs. The closure starts at 8:00 a.m. The exit to Wagonhound is located twelve miles west of Elk […]
August 28, 2023 | Photo – Hanna Hazard Preparedness Meeting Info – Courtesy Hanna Senior Center The Hanna Senior Center manager has arranged a hazard preparedness meeting to inform residents about the services available during emergencies. Following last winter’s higher-than-average snowfall, Hanna Senior Center Manager Debbie Schasteen took it upon herself to put together a […]
August 28, 2023 | Photo – Mosquito – Bigfoot99 file photo Residents who spend a large portion of their time outdoors should be aware that neighboring Sweetwater County has four confirmed animal cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) but there are no human cases have been detected there. According to a press release from the […]
August 28, 2023 | Photo – Bull rider at 2023 Saratoga BullFest – Courtesy Saratoga Lion’s Club Facebook After taking last year off, the Saratoga Bullfest returned to the Buck Springs Arena on Saturday night. The crowd that turned out was large and enthusiastic for the return for the 27th running of the popular event. […]
August 28, 2023 | Photo – WY vs TX Tech – Bigfoot99 file photo Game week in Laramie is finally here. The Wyoming Cowboys open the season Saturday evening in Laramie against Texas Tech. The Red Raiders are riding big waves of hype and bold predictions coming into the season under second-year head coach Joey […]
August 25, 2023 | Photo – Emergency Lights – Bigfoot99 file photo A multi-vehicle crash on Highway 130 sent two people to the hospital. On Wednesday evening, two vehicles collided at the junction of Highway 130 and Brush Creek Road, west of the Snowy Range. Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris described the event. Chief Morris […]
August 25, 2023 | Photo – January Mugshot of Arthur Andrew Nelson – Bigfoot99 file photo The wrong-way driver accused of killing five college students on Interstate 80 near Sinclair earlier this year has been found not competent to stand trial. Arthur Andrew Nelson, 58-years old, of Limestone, Tennessee, has been declared incompetent to stand […]
August 25, 2023 | Photo – Marker for site recently identified as Fifel 1905 – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 The Elk Mountain cemetery remapping project is nearly complete. Work remains to be done, says cemetery board chairman. In March, the Elk Mountain cemetery board hired Dave Hammond, of Hammond Land Survey in Laramie, to perform […]
August 25, 2023 | Photo – Cat – Courtesy Pet Partners Facebook A local cat rescue is hosting a thrift sale and adoption event. Pet Partners of Carbon County is selling donated items to raise money for the care and treatment of homeless cats. The sale, which began yesterday, continues today, from 11:00 am to […]
August 24, 2023 | Photo – Rocky Mountain Power Logo – Courtesy Rocky Mountain Power Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Grey announced his official opposition Thursday to the two proposed rate increases that Rocky Mountain Power is seeking from state authorities. The electric power company is seeking a General Rate Increase of $140.2 million per […]
August 24, 2023 | Photo – 307 Meat Company in Laramie – Courtesy 307 Meat Company Carbon County School District #2 can accept donations of beef from local ranchers. In a news release Thursday, CCSD2 said any donated beef must be processed at a USDA approved facility. Two USDA facilities in the area are listed […]
August 24, 2023 | Photo – Rescued Horse Living at Not Glue Horse Rescue – Courtesy Facebook A Medicine Bow horse rescue outfit is hosting a fundraising fossil dig at Como Bluffs. Thousands of dinosaur bones have been recovered from the Como Buffs formation since digging began in the late 1870’s. The Not Glue Horse […]
August 24, 2023 | Photo – Heart EKG – Courtesy Amaze Health County employees will have access to a new telemedicine provider. Current Carbon County employees can use a remote medical service called Teledoc. Patients can call a provided number and have a health care provider call back after an indeterminate time. The doctor or […]
August 24, 2023 | Photo – Logo for Albany County School District #1 – Courtesy Wikipedia Nearly two years after being arrested and escorted off the Laramie High School premises, Grace Smith, and her parents Andy and Erin Smith filed a complaint earlier this month in the District Court of Albany County. The family is […]
August 23, 2023 | Photo – Old West Bar in Medicine Bow – Courtesy Map Quest A Medicine Bow bar owner is demanding that the U.S. Marshal’s Office stop using her parking lot to catch speeders through the town. The business owner says the marshal scares away her customers. At the August 14th Medicine Bow […]
August 23, 2023 | Photo – SPD new police vehicle – by Tana Davi Bigfoot99 The Saratoga Police Department has received a pre-owned patrol vehicle to add to their fleet. During the August 1st Saratoga town council meeting, Police Chief Mike Morris said he and Lieutenant John Moore were looking to buy a new SUV […]
August 23, 2023 | Photo – Meeting Poster – Courtesy Little Snake River Museum The Little Snake River Museum hosts monthly meetings to collect stories from longtime residents. Tonight’s meeting will focus on stories about rattlesnake encounters. Every month since 2012, the Little Snake River Museum and the Little Snake River Valley Education Center have […]
August 23, 2023 | Photo – War Memorial Stadium Jonah Field – Courtesy gowyo.com The Cowboy Football season is a little over one week away. In a sign of how confident head coach Craig Bohl is about his team, he surprised many by releasing the depth chart this week. Coach Bohl has always held the […]
August 22, 2023 | Photo – Crashed motorcycle after chase – Courtesy WHP A high-speed motorcycle pursuit on I-80 last week ended with the suspect crashing. On the evening of Monday, August 14th, Wyoming Highway Patrol clocked a green Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle doing 110 miles per hour. The suspect, Anna Rutherford-Falconer of New Zealand, was […]
August 22, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins City Council Meeting – Bigfoot99 file photo A Rawlins resident asked the city council recently to address parking issues along Murray Street. During each Rawlins city council meeting, time is set aside for citizen participation. People are given five minutes to address the council members about an item […]
August 22, 2023 | Photo – Lights – Courtesy Rocky Mountain Power Facebook Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has asked the Public Service Commission to hold additional public meetings on a proposed power rate increase for Wyoming customers. The PSC is reviewing a proposed rate increase from Rocky Mountain Power. “This proposal is notable for the […]
August 22, 2023 | Photo – Sage Grouse – by Stacey Jarrett of Bigfoot99 The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is asking residents, especially landowners, to report dead sage-grouse so the birds can be tested for West Nile virus. While there are no signs of an outbreak, Game and Fish asks the public annually for […]
August 22, 2023 | Photo – Table of vegetables – Courtesy Yelp.com The Hanna Farmers Market is canceled indefinitely after only two outings. The market organizer said a lack of advertising resulted in too few customers. In June, Hanna officials held a public meeting to inform residents of the dire financial situation at the Hanna […]
August 21, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Water System – Courtesy City of Rawlins The Rawlins water survey is underway and on track to be completed by next year. The city will begin providing updates to the public starting this fall. The city has been struggling to keep its aging water infrastructure functioning. Early last […]
August 21, 2023 | Photo – Medicine Bow Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo The Wyoming Department of Criminal Investigation collected financial records from the Medicine Bow town hall earlier this year. The exhaustive state audit continues. The lack of clear bookkeeping records led to the state becoming involved. As a result, the current governing body […]
August 21, 2023 | Photo – Hanna Recreation Center – Bigfoot99 file photo Hanna officials are investigating turning the town’s recreation center over to a nonprofit entity. When Hanna was booming with coal mining, the mine companies built a large recreation center to attract workers and their families. The Hanna rec center has a heated […]
August 21, 2023 | Photo – UW Cowboy Football – Courtesy gowyo.com The first game of the Wyoming Cowboy football season is less than two weeks away. As opening-day kickoff moves closer, practices are shifting to game-like situations. On Friday, Coach Bohl deployed a Mountain West Conference officiating crew to tighten up discipline on the […]
August 18, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Police Department – Bigfoot99 file photo Saratoga Police Sergeant resigns to join Sheriff’s Office as a school resource officer. At Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Police Chief Mike Morris announced that Sergeant Tyler Christen had handed in his resignation. Sgt. Christen has been with the Saratoga Police Department […]
August 18, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins BLM Office – Bigfoot99 file photo Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon blasted the Bureau of Land Management’s decision, Thursday, to give a special off-limits designation to half of the 3.6 million acres of surface land overseen by its office. The BLM is proposing that 1.8 million acres of land […]
August 18, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Family Recreation Center – Bigfoot99 file photo The Rawlins Parks and Recreation Department will auction off unneeded rifles to purchase shotguns for youth shooting events. During the August 15th Rawlins city council meeting, Parks and Recreation Director Jason Sehon asked the council to allow him to put six […]
August 18, 2023 | Photo – MHCC Fun Scramble Poster – Courtesy imhcc.com Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is hosting a golf tournament to raise money to purchase needed medical equipment. Next Thursday, August 24th, is the start of the 5th Annual Foundation Fun Scramble. MHCC Marketing, Communications, and Foundation Director Stephanie Hinkle said the […]
August 17, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Police Department sign – Bigfoot99 file photo The Saratoga Police Chief provided little information about the circumstances surrounding the shooting death of one of his officer’s when discussing the matter at this week’s town council meeting. Officer Glen Casner apparently shot himself late Saturday night or early Sunday […]
August 17, 2023 | Photo – Wyodak Power Plant in Powder Basin, WY – Courtesy clui.org Wyoming scored a win over the Obama and Biden Administrations in federal court this week. The 10th Circuit Court in Denver handed Wyoming the victory in a case regarding emissions at the Wyodak Power Plant near Gillette. More than […]
August 17, 2023 | Photo – FEMA flood plain map – Bigfoot99 file photo Saratoga officials held a public meeting Tuesday to address errors in the new federal flood map. Every five years, the Federal Emergency Management Agency revises the countries flood insurance rate maps to determine whose property is susceptible to flooding. Homes placed […]
August 17, 2023 | Photo – CCSO Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo In Hanna, the town council voted to pay the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office to patrol the town. The town of Hanna has been without a law enforcement officer since March when former marshal Ted Kranenburg left the town to join the Carbon County […]
August 17, 2023 | Photo – Andrew Peasley – Courtesy gowyo.com With the first game of the Wyoming Cowboy football season just over two weeks away, fall camp in Laramie is heating up. Quarterback Andrew Peasley is returning for his second year under center. Last year, Peasley came to Laramie from Utah State as a […]
August 16, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Water Treatment Plant – Bigfoot99 file photo Rawlins failed to meet EPA requirements for drinking water. The city did not correct the deficiencies in the allotted time. On Monday, the City of Rawlins Government published a Facebook post stating the city failed an October 7th, 2020, Environmental Protection […]
August 16, 2023 | Photo – Medicine Bow town limit sign – Bigfoot99 file photo Medicine Bow officials have chosen a new town attorney following the resignation of the previous attorney. The attorney for the town of Medicine Bow, Robert Piper of Coal Creek Law in Laramie, recently resigned. The exact date of Piper’s resignation […]
August 16, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Encampment Railway Caboose – Courtesy GEM Facebook After nearly a decade of restoration work, the Grand Encampment Museum’s 130-year-old caboose is ready for public display. Today, at 10:00am, the Grand Encampment Museum will have the official dedication of the Saratoga and Encampment Railway caboose. GEM Director Tim Nicklas […]
August 16, 2023 | Photo – Coach Craig Bohl – Courtesy gowyo.com The Wyoming Cowboy football season kicks off in 10 days. The intensity level clicked upward this week. The first scrimmage was on Saturday. The second half of fall camp started yesterday. Head Coach Craig Bohl seemed impressed with starting quarterback Andrew Peasley after […]
August 16, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Water Treatment Plant – Bigfoot99 file photo Rawlins failed to meet EPA requirements for drinking water. The city did not correct the deficiencies in the allotted time. On Monday, the City of Rawlins Government published a Facebook post stating the city failed an October 7th, 2020, Environmental Protection […]
August 16, 2023 | Photo – Medicine Bow town limit sign – Bigfoot99 file photo Medicine Bow officials have chosen a new town attorney following the resignation of the previous attorney. The attorney for the town of Medicine Bow, Robert Piper of Coal Creek Law in Laramie, recently resigned. The exact date of Piper’s resignation […]
August 16, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Encampment Railway Caboose – Courtesy GEM Facebook After nearly a decade of restoration work, the Grand Encampment Museum’s 130-year-old caboose is ready for public display. Today, at 10:00am, the Grand Encampment Museum will have the official dedication of the Saratoga and Encampment Railway caboose. GEM Director Tim Nicklas […]
August 16, 2023 | Photo – WY 789 Sign – Courtesy Wikipedia Starting today, drivers along Wyoming Highway 789 in Baggs can expect delays as highway crews begin bridge rehabilitation work at mile marker 50, the Little Snake River Bridge. Work requires a lane closure with a concrete barrier. Traffic will alternate in each direction […]
August 16, 2023 | Photo – Coach Craig Bohl – Courtesy gowyo.com The Wyoming Cowboy football season kicks off in 10 days. The intensity level clicked upward this week. The first scrimmage was on Saturday. The second half of fall camp started yesterday. Head Coach Craig Bohl seemed impressed with starting quarterback Andrew Peasley after […]
August 15, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Town Hall/Police Department – Bigfoot99 file photo A Saratoga police officer apparently took his own life over the weekend. The police department has not released a statement about the incident. Officer Glen Casner apparently committed suicide Sunday morning, according to sources with knowledge of the situation. Chief Morris […]
August 15, 2023 | Photo – WY Association of Municipalities Logo – Courtesy wyomuni.org The mayor of Saratoga wants to limit the power of town council members on boards and committees. In Saratoga, the town’s various boards are staffed with volunteers chosen by the town council. To ensure the town knows what is going on […]
August 15, 2023 | Photo – Carbon Power and Light Card – Courtesy CP&L Facebook page Carbon Power and Light and three other rural electricity providers are looking at joining forces to save customers money. A public statement released last week from Carbon Power and Light Director of Member Services and Marketing Joe Parrie said […]
August 15, 2023 | Photo – Fling Golf clubs – Courtesy flinggolf.com The Rochelle Ranch Golf Course is offering a new way for people to enjoy the links: Fling Golf. Invented in 2012 by Alex Van Alen, Fling Golf is an alternative to traditional golf. Fling Golf is played on standard golf courses alongside regular […]
August 14, 2023 | Photo – WYDOT Director Darin Westby – Bigfoot99 file photo Darin Westby is the new director of the Wyoming Department of Transportation. Governor Mark Gordon announced the appointment on Friday. Westby was one of three finalists for the position on the list that the Wyoming Transportation submitted to Governor Gordon. Prior […]
August 14, 2023 | Photo – Hanna Elementary School – Bigfoot99 file photo The Hanna and Medicine Bow schools will hold back-to-school parades for students. At 9:30am on Monday, August 21st, students of the Medicine Bow Elementary School will participate in a parade. The children will gather in the parking lot of the C-Spear Bar […]
August 14, 2023 | Photo – Trees at Washington Park – Bigfoot99 file photo Rawlins Parks staff is working on maintaining the city’s trees. In a press release issued last Thursday, Rawlins officials announced that local arborist, Affordable Tree Care, will begin tree maintenance in the city’s cemetery and other green spaces. Work is expected […]
August 14, 2023 | Photo – UW Football – Courtesy gowyo.com Three weeks before the start of the new college football season, the Wyoming Cowboy running game has already taken a hit. Dawaiian McNeeley is out for the season. McNeely tore an ACL during Wednesday’s practice, the first in full pads. UW head coach Craig […]
August 14, 2023 | Photo – Emmery Penner – Courtesy Town of Salmon, ID website Saratoga’s new Public Works Director sat down with Bigfoot99 to talk about his experience and why he chose to work “Where the Trout Leap in Main Street.” Emmery Penner took over the job in July, replacing Jon Winter, who resigned […]
August 11, 2023 | Photo – Map of transmission line route – Courtesy Trans West website Construction will begin soon on the TransWest Express Transmission line project. TransWest Express is a company specializing in energy development and transmission in the western United States. For over a decade, TransWest has been working to build on a […]
August 11, 2023 | Photo – Russian Olives in a Rawlins park – Bigfoot99 file photo In Rawlins, the City of Parks Division will begin conducting a tree maintenance program that will last between now and September. The city has contracted with Affordable Tree Care to serve as the city’s arborist. The work over the […]
August 11, 2023 | Photo – 988 Logo – Courtesy Wyoming Dept. of Education Project Aware continues to screen short films addressing Wyoming’s mental health issues. Starting on July 18th, Carbon County School District #1’s Project Aware began offering community screenings at the Parco Sinclair Theater for a series of short films called, A State […]
August 11, 2023 | Photo – Wyoming’s Senator John Barrasso – Bigfoot99 file photo Wyoming Senator John Barrasso slammed the White House Thursday after the latest consumer price index out shows inflation ticked up over the last year and remains more than double what it was when Biden took office. The latest data shows that cost of goods […]
August 11, 2023 | Photo – Officers from RPD present raised funds to St Christopher’s Highway – Courtesy RPD Facebook page Rawlins Police donated money raised during the National Night Out to St. Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County. Last Tuesday, August 1st, was the 2023 National Night Out. Considered one of the most important community […]
August 10, 2023 | Photo – Hanna Recreation Center – Bigfoot99 file photo The pool at the Hanna Recreation Center will remain closed indefinitely. On Tuesday, June 27th, the Hanna Recreation Center Facebook page announced that the pump motor for the heated indoor pool was not functioning. The pool was closed immediately. A new motor […]
August 10, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Sheriff’s Office logo – Bigfoot99 file photo The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office, in a move to avoid any appearance of bias, has changed the way promotions are handled. Sheriff Alex Bakken said one of the unique challenges of small-town law enforcement is avoiding the perception of individual […]
August 10, 2023 | Photo – Perkins Conoco in Rawlins – Bigfoot99 file photo Gasoline prices in Wyoming are on the rise this week. According to a survey of 494 filling stations in the Cowboy State conducted by GasBuddy.com, prices have risen 10.6 cents per gallon in the last week. On Monday, the statewide average […]
August 10, 2023 | Photo – Trent Weitzel with two of his wing trophies – Courtesy Trent Weitzel A local food truck has broken two world records for selling chicken wings. On July 29th, during Cheyenne Frontier Days, Weitzel’s Wings sold the most chicken wings in the world. The food truck company, also known as […]
August 9, 2023 | Photo – Vandalized Park Restroom – Courtesy City of Rawlins Vandals continue to damage public restrooms and playground equipment at Rawlins parks. On Monday afternoon, the city of Rawlins issued a statement about a rash of vandalism at public facilities. Parks and Recreation Director Jason Sehon said Bolton Park on the […]
August 9, 2023 | Photo – Old Water Treatment Building in Saratoga – Bigfoot99 file photo Saratoga officials are looking at using EPA funding to demolish the town’s nonfunctioning water treatment plant. Cleaning up a vacant site that is polluted with harmful chemicals or other materials is often very costly. To combat the growing number […]
August 9, 2023 | Photo – Suicide Hotline Poster – Courtesy health.wyo.gov Governor Mark Gordon, this week, marked the one-year anniversary of the Wyoming-based 988 Suicide Lifeline Service. In July of last year, Wyoming was among the first states that transitioned to the simplified 988 number for suicide lifeline services. The state began offering the […]
August 9, 2023 | Photo – Demolition Derby – Courtesy carboncountyfairgrounds.com Carbon County Fair week was capped off Saturday evening by the crushing roar of the popular demolition derby. The Raw Town Riot Demolition Derby closed out the weeklong fair event in front of another big, enthusiastic crowd. Derby organizer Lonnie Pacheco said he has […]
August 9, 2023 | Photo – UW Football – Courtesy gowyo.com The intensity level of UW Cowboy football camp in Laramie clicked up this week with the first game of the season set for three weeks from this Saturday. Competition is fierce. Head Coach Craig Bohl seemed pleased with the level of competition he is […]
August 8, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo Saratoga officials are considering selling town-owned land. The planning and zoning committee chairwoman wants money from the sale to go toward bettering the community. During last week’s Saratoga town council, Mayor Chuck Davis said he was approached by two different private individuals […]
August 8, 2023 | Photo – Playground Equipment at Tully Park – Bigfoot99 file photo Public officials in Rawlins are asking residents to monitor and report vandalism that is occurring to facilities in city parks. According to a new release issued yesterday, restrooms in the parks have been closed multiple times this year because of […]
August 8, 2023 | Photo – Safety Tips for construction zones – Courtesy WYDOT Starting today, WYDOT will begin paving roads around Carbon County. Officials say to expect potential delays. A press release issued yesterday morning by the Wyoming Department of Transportation states, WYDOT maintenance crews will begin seasonal paving operations in Carbon County today, […]
August 8, 2023 | Photo – Cake – Courtesy Wikipedia Bakers in Rawlins are organizing a cake making competition during October’s Food Truck Festival. Katie Friend, the owner of Sweet Katee’s in Rawlins, is putting together a community cake baking contest. Friend said she and GEM Cookie Company owner Elysha Mallcheck wanted a way to […]
August 8, 2023 | Photo – UW Basketball Head Coach Jeff Linder – Courtesy gowyo.com University of Wyoming head men’s basketball coach Jeff Linder announced the addition of Jonas Sirtautas (Yo-Nus) to the 2023-24 roster on Monday. He will join fellow Lithuanian Oleg Kojenets in the Brown and Gold. The 6-10, 185-pound forward is a native of Lithuania. He […]
August 7, 2023 | Photo – Body armor – Courtesy Shield616.org An anonymous, out-of-state benefactor has offered to buy new body armor for the Saratoga Police Department. At last Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Police Chief Mike Morris told the council he received an unsolicited online message from a Colorado resident. Chief Morris said the […]
August 7, 2023 | Photo – Jackson Hole Ski Resort – Courtesy Powderhounds An era has ended and a new one begun at the Jackson Hole Mountain Ski Resort. Longtime owners, the Kemmerer family, have sold the iconic downhill winter resort to a pair of passionate local skiers and their families. New owner, Eric Macy, […]
August 7, 2023 | Photo – Volunteers with St. Christopher’s Highway accepting award from City of Rawlins – Courtesy City of Rawlins St. Christohper’s Highway of Carbon County was honored with a Rawlins Community Builder Award. Every month, the city of Rawlins recognizes organizations and individuals who perform beneficial volunteer services that improve the quality […]
August 7, 2023 | Photo – Grand Encampment Museum – Bigfoot99 file photo The Grand Encampment Museum is hosting a sold-out tour of a monument for two slain lawmen. Every year, the Grand Encampment Museum takes people to historically important locations in and around Carbon County. Last summer, Museum Director Tim Nicklas led people to […]
August 7, 2023 | Photo – UW Football – Courtesy gowyo.com The Wyoming Cowboys will be in full pads tomorrow for the first time this season as fall camp continues in Laramie. The Pokes were in half-pads on Friday and Saturday. They’ll be in half-pads again today, as well, as the intensity level begins to […]
August 4, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo Tempers flared at the Saratoga town council meeting Tuesday as residents and council members butted heads over recreation department spending. In Saratoga, the town’s various boards are staffed with volunteers chosen by the town council. To ensure the town knows what is […]
August 4, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Website – Bigfoot99 file photo During the July 5th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, County IT Director Matt Webster informed the board that the county website domain name would need to change. Webster said he would present a letter to request a new domain name at […]
August 4, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Family Recreation Center – Bigfoot99 file photo The Rawlins Parks and Recreation Department will use grant money to fix two of the city’s outdoor sports facilities. At Tuesday’s Rawlins city council meeting, Parks and Recreation Director Jason Sehon said the city was approved for two Land and Water […]
August 4, 2023 | Photo – Mosquito – Bigfoot99 file photo Be aware if you’re headed to Cheyenne for any reason, the capital city has been dealing with high numbers of West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes over the past few weeks. Infected mosquitoes have been collected throughout Cheyenne and Laramie County. The city’s Weed and Pest […]
August 4, 2023 | Photo – UW Football Head Coach Craig Bohl – Courtesy gowyo.com This year’s Wyoming Cowboy football team is older and more seasoned than the young, untested squad that performed at a higher level than anyone expected last year. Now ten years into the head coaching job at Laramie, head coach Craig […]
August 3, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Lake Algae Bloom – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 The Wyoming Department of Health is strongly advising people not to swim in Saratoga Lake. Officials cite dangerous algae bloom. During Tuesday night’s Saratoga town council meeting, Town Clerk Marie Christen said the town received an advisory letter from the […]
August 3, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Courthouse – Bigfoot99 file photo The Carbon County Courthouse renovation contractor is asking for final payment. The county commissioners want the building’s elevators to work properly first. The nearly 3-year-long project to renovate the Carbon County Courthouse and Carbon Building was completed earlier this year. The 80-year-old […]
August 3, 2023 | Photo – City Manager Tom Sarvey – Bigfoot99 file photo The city of Rawlins will once again apply for federal funding to address the failing water infrastructure. To have a greater chance at being approved for the grant, city officials will only request money to design the system. Last year, the […]
August 3, 2023 | Photo – UW Football Coach Bohl – Courtesy UW Athletics The countdown clock to the first game of the Wyoming Cowboy Football season started clicking yesterday. Fall training camp kicked off Wednesday in Laramie. On the calendar, Saturday, September 2nd is the date that is circled. The Red Raiders of Texas […]
August 2, 2023 | Photo – Aerial view of Dixon Airport looking North East – Courtesy airnav.com Dixon Airport near Savery is out of room for airplanes, county officials learned yesterday. During the Carbon County Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, Planning and Development Director Sarah Brugger said Dixon Airport had officially run out of […]
August 2, 2023 | Photo – Proposed National Heritage Area map – Bigfoot99 file photo Progress is being made on the proposed Pathways National Heritage Area. Vern Lovejoy and Dr. Glenn Haas, of Lovejoy Consulting in Denver, Colorado, have been working on an idea to bring more tourism money into the area. Lovejoy and Haas […]
August 2, 2023 | Photo – Sink hole on County Road 297 – Bigfoot99 file photo Abandoned mine filling continues in Hanna. Work is on track to be finished by the end of the year, said AML Project Manager. When the Hanna coal mines closed for good, the underground tunnels were left as they were. […]
August 2, 2023 | Photo – Wild horses at Mantle Training Facility – Courtesy Bryan Nealy A good-news story. The Bureau of Land Management and Mantle Ranch Wild Horse Adoption and Training Facility found new homes for 14 wild horses at the 2023 Cheyenne Frontier Days. The average adoption bid was $1,100, with a 2-year-old […]
August 1, 2023 | Photo – FEMA Flood Plain Map – Bigfoot99 file photo Saratoga Mayor Chuck Davis is asking residents to bring any information that refutes the new FEMA flood map to an August 15th public meeting. In November of 2020, the Federal Emergency Management Agency presented an updated Carbon County flood insurance rate […]
August 1, 2023 | Photo – Stolen Red 1991 Chevy step-side pickup – Courtesy RPD Rawlins police are still asking for the public’s help in tracking down Wyatt Fluty and a stolen 1991 Chevy pickup truck. Around 5:00pm last Thursday, July 27th, police spotted Wyatt Fluty sitting in a stolen vehicle on the east side […]
August 1, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Cemetery – Courtesy Google Images The road from Pic Pike Road leading into the Saratoga cemetery will be closed later this week for much needed repairs. The road is rough and badly potholed. The Saratoga Cemetery District is responsible for maintaining the cemetery and the roads that lead […]
August 1, 2023 | Photo – Veteran Saluting American Flag – Bigfoot99 file photo Veterans needing health care information can talk to a state of Wyoming veterans service officer this month. The Wyoming Veterans Commission will conduct community outreach services around state in August. Two visits are set for Rawlins this month. Wednesday, Aug. 9, […]
August 1, 2023 | Photo – Lacene Ostling – Courtesy CCSO John and Lacene Ostling would like to thank the entire community for helping to locate Lacene after she went missing in Hanna on Friday. The good news: Lacene is safe at home and doing well now. John wanted to extend a special “thank you” […]
August 1, 2023 | Photo – Bench donated by Bridge Street Bargains In Memory of Tyeler Harris – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 The recent bench dedication ceremony for fallen EMT Tyeler Harris of Saratoga was very touching, said the event organizer. On July 15, local emergency medical technician Tyeler Harris was honored with a bench […]
July 31, 2023 | Photo – Kelly Norris – Wyoming State Forester – Courtesy leadershipnature.com Kelly Norris has been named the new state forester. Governor Mark Gordon made the announcement on Friday. Norris had been serving as interim state forester since the retirement of Bill Crapser at the end of 2022. Norris has been with […]
July 31, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Water Treatment Sign – Bigfoot99 file photo Rawlins begins an exhaustive water study and looks into ways to pay for improvements. Following last summer’s disastrous water infrastructure failures, Rawlins city officials have asked the Wyoming Water Development Commission to perform an in-depth examination of the city’s water situation. […]
July 31, 2023 | Photo – Bench dedicated to Tyeler Harris, fallen EMT – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 Tiffany Gruetzmacher is honored at the Cheyenne Frontier Days. During the Cheyenne Frontier Days last Thursday, Stag Arms presented the Cowboy Way Hero of the Day to Rawlins EMT Tiffany Gruetzmacher. Speaking at Cheyenne Frontier Days, Rodeo […]
July 31, 2023 | Photo – Stolen red 1991 Chevy step side pick-up truck – Courtesy RPD Rawlins Police are asking the public to be on the lookout for a potentially armed suspect and a stolen truck. BOOK IN PHOTO OF WYATT FLUTY COURTESY CCSO The Rawlins Police Department are searching for Wyatt Fluty and […]
July 28, 2023 | MISSING: ADULT FEMALE FROM HANNA/ELMO WYOMING AREA 79 year old Lacene Ostling, last see on the evening of July 27th, 2023 in the town of Elmo, Wyoming. Subject is walking, no vehicle involved. Hair is currently a lighter brown than in the photo. Please call your local law enforcement agency, […]
July 28, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Recreation Center – Bigfoot99 file photo The Rawlins Parks and Rec Department updates the city council on its completed and ongoing projects. During the July 18th Rawlins city council meeting, Parks and Recreation Director Jason Sehon talked about the city’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee. Sehon said the […]
July 28, 2023 | Photo – Mountain Lion – Bigfoot99 file photo Rawlins Police responded early Thursday to a report of a mountain lion in the city. Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward said in the early morning hours of July 27th, officers received a call from a citizen claiming to have seen a mountain lion. […]
July 28, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Sheriff’s Office Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo More details emerge about the proposed agreement between the Sheriff’s Office and the town of Hanna. As reported by Bigfoot99, the town of Hanna has been without a marshal since March, when Ted Kranenburg left to join the Carbon County […]
July 28, 2023 | Photo – Cheyenne Frontier Days – Courtesy cfdrodeo.com If you’re headed to Cheyenne Frontier Days for the final weekend of festivities, police in Wyoming’s Capital City are reminding residents and visitors coming to town to “lock up before saddling up” when it comes to leaving valuables – especially firearms – in […]
July 27, 2023 | Photo – Map of proposed Seminoe Pumped Storage Project – Courtesy seminoepumpedstorage.com RPlus Hydro provided the county commissioners with an update on their Seminoe Reservoir electrical storage system. RPlus Hydro, a subsidiary of rPlus Energies, is a renewable energies provider out of Utah specializing in pumped storage hydropower projects. Pumped storage […]
July 27, 2023 | Photo – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell – Courtesy Facebook Wyoming Senator John Barrasso intervened Wednesday when Senate Majority Leader suffered some kind of medical issue while speaking at a podium at the Capitol. After speaking for only a few moments, Sen. Mitch McConnell appeared to suffer some sort of medical […]
July 27, 2023 | Photo – SCWEMS Ambulance Barn – Bigfoot99 file photo SCWEMS is updating its municipality agreements after one community in Carbon County is looking to exit the compact. The South-Central Wyoming Emergency Medical Service provides ambulance coverage across the county. Last month, the SCWEMS Joint Powers Board held a meeting to update […]
July 27th, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Renegades Logo – Courtesy Rawlins Senior League Facebook Rawlins will soon be home to a new youth baseball team, the Renegades. Children age out of the Little League senior division when they reach 16 years old. If kids wanted to continue playing baseball in Rawlins, they would need […]
July 26, 2023 | Photo – City Manager Tom Sarvey – Courtesy City of Rawlins The city of Rawlins has officially hired Tom Sarvey as the new city manager after nine months on the job fulfilling those duties. The city’s previous city manager, Sean Metcalf, resigned last October. Sarvey, who had been working as the […]
July 26, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Sheriff’s Office Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo Sheriff Bakken is hosting a self-defense and gun safety course next month. On Saturday, August 19th, at the Carbon County Higher Education Center, Sheriff Alex Bakken will hold a self-defense and concealed carry class. Sheriff Bakken said he was approached […]
July 26, 2023 | Photo – Schedule for Sinclair Art and Music Festival – Courtesy Sinclair Town Hall The town of Sinclair is hosting a large Arts and Music Festival. Sinclair is putting on its first multi-day festival in recent memory. Arts and crafts, food, and live entertainment will be provided during the third weekend […]
July 26, 2023 | Photo – Nathan Reid of Kingston, Jamaica – Courtesy gowyo.com Tragedy has struck the University of Wyoming track team. Discus and shot put thrower Nathan Reid, who would have been junior this year, died in a car accident on U.S. Highway 18/20 near Orin Junction just south of Douglas. Reid, who […]
July 25, 2023 | Photo – Spring Avenue Project Beginning Stage – Bigfoot99 file photo After nearly a year of delays, Saratoga’s Spring Avenue water main replacement and repaving project is officially finished, and the paperwork signed. In May of 2019, Saratoga residents voted to use the county’s 6th Penny Tax to fund seven projects […]
July 25, 2023 | Photo – Elk Mountain Elementary Logo – Courtesy CCSD#2 webpage Carbon County school officials are hopeful that students will enroll at the Elk Mountain School in the future. Even one student will save the school from being permanently shut down. As reported by Bigfoot99, last Tuesday, July 18th, District #2 officials […]
July 25, 2023 | Photo – BLM’s Fire Danger Sign – Bigfoot99 file photo The hot, dry part of summer is here and Wyoming Game and Fish is warning outdoor enthusiasts to stay vigilant about campfires. Restrictions are in place on some Game and Fish lands. The Wyoming Game and Fish website has a page […]
July 25, 2023 | Photo – National Night Out Logo – Courtesy wavy.com The Rawlins Police Department is sponsoring a national crime prevention event. Next Tuesday, August 1st, Rawlins PD will host a police and community partnership event in the city. During the July 18th Rawlins city council meeting, Mayor Terry Weickum read a proclamation […]
July 25, 2023 | Photo – Tuker Carricato – Courtesy Tuker Carricato Facebook page Saratoga’s Tuker Carricato took home the World Title in bareback riding at the National High School Finals Rodeo in Gillette over the weekend. Carricato finished with 240 on 3 rides. In the first go-round, the Saratoga High School student scored 80, […]
July 24, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Police Department – Bigfoot99 file photo Rawlins Police are looking for witnesses to a shooting Thursday night. No injuries were reported. On July 20th at 8:52 pm, Rawlins Police received a call of multiple gunshots. Police Chief Mike Ward said the shots were thought to have originated from […]
July 24, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo The amendment to the Rawlins Title 19 zoning ordinance passed on third reading last week despite one council member’s objections. As he did during second reading, Councilman Darril Garner voiced his opposition to the change governing the construction of garages on residential […]
July 24, 2023 | Photo – Tom Sarvey, Rawlins City Manager – Courtesy City of Rawlins Facebook page The city of Rawlins has officially chosen a new city manager. Following the resignation of previous city manager, Sean Metcalf, last October, Finance Director Tom Sarvey was selected as Metcalf’s temporary replacement. Sarvey acted as interim city […]
July 24, 2023 | Photo – DEQ vs Quality Landscape hearing – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 After two days of hearings last week, the state’s environmental council postponed making a ruling in the Randy Stevens case. On Wednesday in the Grand Encampment Opera House, the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality began its case to revoke […]
July 21, 2023 | Photo – Senator John Barrasso – Bigfoot99 file photo Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon and U.S. Senator John Barrasso, on Thursday, denounced a proposed White House rule that will raise the price of leasing federal lands for oil and gas production. Consumers ultimately will feel the cost. The proposal codifies provisions of […]
July 21, 2023 | Photo – Senator Cynthia Lummis – Bigfoot99 file photo Tomorrow, Saturday, July 22nd, has been declared the National Day of the American Cowboy by the U.S. Senate. U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both of Wyoming, introduced the bipartisan resolution with their colleagues. The resolution passed the U.S. Senate unanimously. […]
July 21, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Water Towers – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 The leaking water tank south of Saratoga is scheduled to be demolished soon. One of the two water storage tanks on Sierra Madre Avenue, southwest of Valley Foods is slated to be torn down next week. While both tanks hold 500,000 […]
July 21, 2023 | Photo – MHCC – Bigfoot99 file photo Memorial Hospital of Carbon County was hurt by the previous administration’s decisions, says the new interim CFO. The hospital in Rawlins has been in dire financial straits for years. On March 7th, former Chief Executive Officer Ken Harmon told the Board of Carbon County […]
July 21, 2023 | Photo – Wyoming Cowboy Quarterback Andrew Peasley – Courtesy gowyo.com Wyoming quarterback Andrew Peasley doesn’t have to worry about losing any sleep with a newborn in his family. Peasley joked with reporters this week in Las Vegas that his wife Maia lets him sleep while she feeds Andrew Peasley Junior. The […]
July 20, 2023 | Photo – UW Linebacker Easton Gibbs – Courtesy gowyo.com In sports, as the Cowboy football season draws closer, middle linebacker Easton Gibbs was voted the preseason Mountain West defensive player of the year by the media. Gibbs earned all-conference, first team honors by racking up 121 tackles. Gibbs shrugged off the […]
July 20, 2023 | Photo – FEMA Flood Map – Courtesy Carbon County Planning and Development Saratoga and Carbon County officials are asking the public for data that refutes the latest FEMA flood map. Every five years, the Federal Emergency Management Agency redraws its flood insurance rate maps. The maps are used to determine who […]
July 20, 2023 | Photo – MHCC – Bigfoot99 file photo Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is hosting a series of health-care related events across the county over the next month. Among the events are physicals, necessary for student athletes. The hospital’s Marketing, Communications, and Foundation Director, Stephanie Hinkle, said MMHC is offering school physicals […]
July 20, 2023 | Photo – WY Highway Patrol Car – Courtesy WHP Facebook The Wyoming Highway Patrol is asking residents to vote for its cruiser design in a country-wide competition. Started in 2014 by the American Association of State Troopers, the annual Best Looking Cruiser Contest asks people to vote for their state’s police […]
July 19, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo After two years of working to revise the zoning ordinance in Rawlins, the city council amended Title 19 on second reading with a single dissenting vote. In August of 2021, the governing body voted to ease the code to better fit real […]
July 19, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Sheriff Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo Hanna officials are one step closer to signing an agreement with the sheriff’s office. Following the departure of former marshal Ted Kranenburg in March, the town of Hanna has been left without an in-town law enforcement officer. Carbon County Sheriff Alex […]
July 18, 2023 | Photo – Seth “Turtle” Johnson – Bigfoot99 file photo Rawlins has hired an interim city attorney in the wake of the resignation of Gwendolyn Wade in early July. Wade tendered her initial letter of resignation on May 16. A May 30th addendum from Wade stated that her final date of employment […]
July 18, 2023 | Photo – Medicine Bow Entrance Sign – Bigfoot99 file photo The Medicine Bow Town Council held a special meeting Friday to rescind the mayoral vote and elect a new council member. As reported by Bigfoot99, during the July 10th Medicine Bow town council meeting, the council accidentally voted themselves out of […]
July 18, 2023 | Photo – Wyoming Toad – Courtesy cmzoo.org (Cheyenne Mountain Zoo) An endangered species of frog exclusive to the Laramie area in Wyoming and thought to be extinct is fighting its way back thanks to state biologists. The Wyoming toad was common through the early-1970s. By 1985, though, the palm-sized frogs were […]
July 18, 2023 | Photo – Hanna Entrance Sign – Bigfoot99 file photo The Hanna Town council has changed the procedure for firing town employees. During the July 11th council meeting, Hanna Mayor Jon Ostling discussed a proposed amendment to the town’s procedures on terminating a town employee. Town Attorney Patrick Brady said the revised […]
July 17, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County School District #2 – Bigfoot99 file photo The future of the Elk Mountain school house will be discussed Tuesday night at a Carbon County School District #2 meeting. Superintendent Darrin Jennings and Elk Mountain School Principal Jackie Jones will hold the meeting to garner public input on […]
July 17, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Fire Department – Bigfoot99 file photo This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Saratoga Fire Department. Saturday, the company will honor our past and present firefighters with a celebration. The Saratoga Fire Department was founded in 1923 as the Saratoga Hose Company #1. The town’s official website […]
July 17, 2023 | Photo – Senator John Barrasso – Bigfoot99 file photo In a speech on the senate floor Thursday, Wyoming Senator John Barrasso said the Biden Administration is ravaging wallets and wrecking savings by tilting the U.S. economy to favor communist China, not American families. Wyoming’s senior U.S. Senator said the White House […]
July 17, 2023 | Photo – Encampment Lagoon Project – Courtesy North Fork Engineering Phase one of the Encampment sewer lagoon project is underway. The project engineer is confident the job will finish on time despite contractor delays early this summer. Last October, the State Lands and Investment Board, or SLIB, granted the town of […]
July 14, 2023 | Photo – High Voltage Power Lines – Bigfoot99 file photo PacifiCorp has been granted another conditional use permit for the construction of a power line to a wind energy project. In February of 2021, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners granted Pacificorp a permit to build 20 miles of high-power electrical […]
July 14, 2023 | Photo – North Platte Valley Medical Center – Bigfoot99 file photo Tomorrow promises to be an emotional day of remembrance in Saratoga. The family of Tyeler Harris will gather with members of the public at the new medical center in a dedication ceremony honoring the young paramedic who was killed in […]
July 14, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Police Department and Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo The Saratoga Police Department has hired a long-time sheriff’s deputy. As reported by Bigfoot99, on Tuesday afternoon, the Saratoga town council held a special meeting to approve the Royal Springs subdivision south of town. After giving the new neighborhood […]
July 14, 2023 | Photo – Charlotte Martinez Wyoming Public Records Ombudsman – Courtesy governor.wyo.gov Governor Mark Gordon has announced the appointment of Charlotte Martinez to replace Darlena Potter as Wyoming’s Public Records Ombudsman. The Ombudsman position was created in 2019 with the passage of Senate File 57. The Public Records Ombudsman serves as a […]
July 13, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Forest Management – Courtesy Saratoga Forest Management Public access has been cut off to the portion of Saratoga Forest Lumber where free firewood has been available to the public in the past. The mill owner says the supply of free firewood will be cut off permanently if people […]
July 13, 2023 | Photo – Hanna Marshal patrol vehicle – Bigfoot99 file photo The Town of Hanna is still without a marshal. The council blames the low salary for the lack of applicants. U.S. Marshal Ted Kranenberg resigned his position and joined the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office. Despite advertising online and in local newspapers, […]
July 13, 2023 | Photo – Map of I-80/I-25 Interchange in Cheyenne – Courtesy WYDOT If you’ve ever driven to Cheyenne you may be haunted about the I-80 to I-25 interchange. It’s a fast, tight, loop-de-loop with little room for error as on-ramp and off-ramp traffic jockeys with one another in a short distance at […]
July 13, 2023 | Photo – Passenger Train Meeting – Courtesy Discover Carbon County Facebook The local tourism group, Discover Carbon County, is sponsoring a passenger train meeting tonight in Rawlins. As part of the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Biden administration set aside $66 billion to improve passenger rail access across the country. All […]
July 12, 2023 | Photo – Medicine Bow Sign – Bigfoot99 file photo The Medicine Bow Town Council voted away its ability to govern after choosing a new mayor Monday night. Chaos erupted after council member Bradley Buum was elected by the remaining members on the board to replace former mayor Lucy Schofield. Earlier on […]
July 12, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo The Rawlins City Councill will meet in a special session tonight at 7:30 p.m. The only item on the published agenda is a scheduled executive session to be held behind closed doors. No other pertinent information about the reason for the meeting […]
July 12, 2023 | Photo – Final Plat of Royal Springs Subdivision – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 The Saratoga town council approved a new subdivision during yesterday’s special meeting. As reported by Bigfoot99, Bryan Drake, of Triple D Construction, and Dr. Michael Janssen, owner of the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, are working on an eight-property […]
July 11, 2023 | Photo – 2014 Carbon County Rodeo – Bigfoot99 file photo The Carbon County Stampede Rodeo needs volunteers. The Carbon County Fair runs from July 24th through August 14th. The theme for the 97th annual fair is “Grow it. Sew it. Show it.” One of the most anticipated events during the fair […]
July 11, 2023 | Photo – Wyo Gives Logo – Courtesy wyogives.org Tomorrow, Wednesday, is the big Wyo Gives fundraiser. Each year, the Wyoming Nonprofit Network organizes a 24-hour fundraiser event called Wyo Gives. Tomorrow is the 4th year the event has been held. Wyoming Nonprofit Network Executive Director Jodie Shields explained where the concept […]
July 11, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo The Saratoga Town Council will meet today in special session at 1 p.m. The agenda is short. It includes consideration of the new 8-home subdivision slated to be built on the south of Myrtle Avenue and east of South Veterans Street. The […]
July 11, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Skate Park – Courtesy Rawlins Parks and Rec Dept The City of Rawlins will honor the former resident who helped make the city’s skatepark a reality. In a press release issued Monday, city officials say the recently completed skate park will be named in honor of Joshua “JR” […]
July 11, 2023 | Photo – University of Wyoming Rodeo Team – Courtesy UW Rodeo website University of Wyoming Athletics Director Tom Burman announced Monday the hiring of Seth Glause as Wyoming’s new head rodeo coach. Glause comes to UW from Laramie County Community College (LCCC) in Cheyenne where he has been the head rodeo […]
July 10, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Cemetery – Bigfoot99 file photo The Rawlins City Council continued to explore ways to backfill the lack of seasonal workers in the parks department this summer. The Rawlins Parks and Recreation Department is suffering from a lack of summer help. Speaking to the governing body last week, Parks […]
July 10, 2023 | Photo – Former interim justice center, new home of fire protection district – Bigfoot99 file photo The county’s new fire protection district has found a location to set up its operational headquarters. Last November, the citizens of the county voted for the creation of the Carbon County Fire Protection District. The […]
July 10, 2023 | Photo – Sheriff’s Office New ATV, loaded and ready to go – Courtesy CCSO The Sheriff’s Office is making good use of their newly purchased ATV. Using Wind Farm Impact funding, the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office purchased an ATV last month. Sheriff Alex Bakken said the quad would be used to […]
July 10, 2023 | Photo – Northern Lights – Courtesy alaska.org A celestial light show known as “northern lights” will be visible from Wyoming and across the American west later this week. The “solar maximum” peaks in 2025, but the northern lights are expected to be visible in parts of 17 states on Thursday night, […]
July 7, 2023 | Photo – MHCC CEO Rex Walk – Courtesy MHCC The new CEO of Memorial Hospital in Rawlins gave Carbon County commissioners a financial update this week. In his first appearance before the board, Rex Walk talked in general terms while promising more detailed information in the future. At Wednesday’s commissioners meeting, […]
July 7, 2023 | Photo – DeBari Martinez receiving award – Courtesy City of Rawlins Long-time councilman DeBari Martinez, now retired, and other municipal staff were honored at the Rawlins City Council meeting this week. At Wednesday’s meeting, Mayor Terry Weickum said the Wyoming Association of Municipalities, or WAM, presented five awards during last month’s […]
July 7, 2023 | Photo – One Dollar Bills – Bigfoot99 file photo The Wyoming Unclaimed Property Department could be hanging onto some of your money, and they want to put it in your hands. A Division of the Wyoming State Treasurer’s Office, the unclaimed property division returned more than $10.6 million dollars to residents […]
July 7, 2023| Photo – Image of student studying – Courtesy freepik.com An Encampment charity organization is looking for scholarship recipients. Jerry Kraft of the Encampment Beef Committee is asking for Encampment high school graduates already engaged in secondary schooling to contact him. Kraft said every year the committee awards two local students with money […]
July 6, 2023 | Photo – Alcova Fire – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 Independence Day celebrations were dampened in Natrona County by an early morning fire at the popular Alcova Resort southwest of Casper. At approximately 5:00am, on the morning of July 4th, the Natrona County Fire District was alerted to a fire at the […]
July 6, 2023 | Photo – Senator John Barrasso – Bigfoot99 file photo Wyoming Senator John Barrasso warned in a letter on Wednesday, to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, that Biden Administration is moving too quickly to phase out traditional power sources used in the American electric grid for unproven alternatives. In a letter to […]
July 6, 2023 | Photo – Platte Valley Knights Auto Club Car Show – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 The Platte Valley Knights Auto Club held its 21st annual Fourth of July Car Show. On Sunday, July 2nd, car enthusiasts from across the region gathered in the Platte Valley Community Center parking lot for a car […]
July 6, 2023 | Photo – WYO Help Assistance Button – Courtesy wyohelp.com A new food outlet aimed at helping low-income households will open in Rawlins this week. The Rawlins Food Pantry will open on Friday, July 7th. A news release from the sponsoring organization says that WYO Help is a community action agency that […]
July 6, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins splash pad – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 After eight years of feasibility studies and fundraising, the Depot Park Splash Pad will open in Rawlins on Saturday morning. The dedication ceremony is set for 11:00 a.m. Downtown Development Authority Director Pam Thayer said the idea for a splash pad […]
July 5, 2023 | Photo – Triple D Construction – Bigfoot99 file photo The date of the public hearing for Saratoga’s new subdivision has changed. Triple D Construction will build a new 8-home subdivision on the south side of Saratoga. Bigfoot99 reported that the public hearing was scheduled to occur during the next town council […]
July 5, 2023 | Photo – Mullen Fire from 2021 – Bigfoot99 file photo Wyoming Game and Fish provided an update recently on the recovery inside the Mullen burn scar in Carbon County. In 2020, the Mullen Fire burned over 170,000 acres of southern Wyoming and northern Colorado. The fire wiped out significant amounts of […]
July 5, 2023 | Photo – Governor Mark Gordon – Bigfoot99 file photo Prior to the long July 4th holiday break, Governor Mark Gordon signed an Executive Order creating the Wyoming Semiquincentennial Planning Task Force to make recommendations on the planning of events and activities to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the […]
July 5, 2023 | Photo – Joey Correnti – Bigfoot99 file photo Carbon County Republicans filed an elections complaint against the state’s Democratic Party. During a recent interview, Democrat lawmaker Mike Yin of Teton County commented on differences between how the two parties operated. Yin said Democrats hold party elections once every four years. State […]
June 30, 2023 | Photo – Teense Wilford and Congresswoman Harriet Hageman at PVCC Town Hall Meeting – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 Congresswoman Harriet Hageman stopped in Saratoga earlier this week for a town hall meeting. On Wednesday evening, a standing room crowd welcomed the congresswoman at the Platte Valley Community Center. More than 50 […]
June 30, 2023 | Photo – Fireworks – Bigfoot99 file photo Bigfoot99 brings you a roundup of the Independence Day activities going on in Carbon County. The July 4th holiday weekend starts today for many people. You can celebrate the founding of our country and the freedoms it represents by attending one of the many […]
June 30, 2023 | Photo – New Sheriff’s Office Pick Up Truck – Courtesy CCSO The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office is waiting on new trucks to patrol the area’s roadways—paved and unpaved. The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office has purchased six new four by four trucks. Sheriff Alex Bakken said he has received two of the […]
June 29, 2023 | Photo – Empty Lot at Myrtle and Veterans Streets in Saratoga – Courtesy Google Maps The Saratoga council heard a proposal for a new subdivision on the south side of town. During last Tuesday’s town council meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis said the planning and zoning commission voted to approve the construction […]
June 29, 2023 | Photo – Darlene Scheneman – Courtesy Darlene Scheneman A Hanna resident is seeking vendors to support the town’s recreation center. With the cost of funding the facility exceeding a quarter of a million dollars a year, the Hanna Recreation Center has been a recent topic of concern for town officials. Services […]
June 29, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Fire District Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo The Carbon County Fire District is moving closer to completion. In last November’s election, Carbon County residents voted to establish a county-wide fire protection district. The fire district will provide coverage for all unincorporated parts of Carbon County. Fire Warden […]
June 29, 2023 | Photo – Revised Sage Grouse Map – Courtesy WY Game and Fish Dept. Governor Mark Gordon has extended the public comment period to seek additional comments on the state’s age-grouse core area map revisions. The new deadline is 5 p.m. July 28. The revisions were proposed by the Sage-Grouse Implementation Team. […]
June 28, 2023 | Photo – Washington Park – Bigfoot99 file photo With the warm weather upon us, the Rawlins Parks Department is hard at work keeping the city’s green spaces looking their best. Parks and Recreation Director Jason Sehon said his department is short staffed. Sehon said he relies on seasonal workers to mow […]
June 28, 2023 | Photo – Veteran’s Island – Bigfoot99 file photo A lack of volunteers caused the Saratoga Days Committee to take over the American Legion’s 4th of July BBQ. Every year, after Saratoga’s 4th of July parade ends, the American Legion offers free music on Veteran’s Island and a paid BBQ. Platte Valley […]
June 28, 2023 | Photo – US Representative Harriet Hageman – Bigfoot99 file photo One of the nation’s founding principles, the right to bear arms, continues to be under attack from the Biden Administration. Last week, U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis fired back against a Biden administration Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) […]
June 28, 2023 | Photo – ATV Pulling Sled – Courtesy You Tube ATV and UTV owners are invited to participate in a mini tractor pull in Saratoga next month. On July 22nd and 23rd, at the Whistle Pig Complex in Saratoga, Dan Jones is helping to put on the area’s first ever ATV pull. […]
June 27, 2023 | Photo – WHP Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo A three-vehicle crash at Hanna Junction sent multiple people to the hospital Friday afternoon. Details are still sketchy about the serious crash that occurred Friday afternoon at the junction of Highways 30 and 72 near Hanna. The Wyoming Highway Patrol has confirmed that […]
June 27, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Museum Property – Bigfoot99 file photo Saratoga police continue to search for the person or persons who scrawled swear words and images of phalluses on the floor of the pavilion of the Saratoga Museum last month. The vulgar words and images were written in permanent marker. The perpetrator […]
June 27, 2023 | Photo – CCSD#2 – Courtesy CCSD#2 Carbon County School District 2 will now have a resource officer. During last week’s County Commissioners meeting, Sheriff Alex Bakken asked the board to approve a Memorandum of Understanding to hire an officer for the schools in Carbon 2. Sheriff Bakken said the district’s board […]
June 27, 2023 | Photo – Inside of a garage – Bigfoot99 file photo Rawlins City Council has amended the zoning ordinance to allow residents to have larger garages on their properties. During last Tuesday’s Rawlins city council meeting, an amendment to Title 19, the municipal code governing the city’s zoning ordinances, was passed on […]
June 27, 2023 | Photo – Marton Ranch – Bigfoot99 file photo In a Decision of Record released Monday, the Bureau of Land Management renewed its 2022 determination to purchase the 35,669 acre Marton Ranch southwest of Casper. Governor Mark Gordon forced an additional review of the purchase last year. The supplemental environmental analysis is […]
June 26, 2023 | Photo – Wyoming National Guard Logo – Courtesy Wyoming National Guard Wyoming took part in a federal emergency response exercise last week. The military exercise named Vigilant Guard included Carbon County Emergency Management and was designed to test state and federal responses to a simulated emergency. Local emergency management coordinator Lenny […]
June 26, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Police Department – Bigfoot99 file photo Saratoga police will receive new body armor. During last week’s Saratoga town council meeting, Police Chief Mike Morris asked the council to approve a resolution allowing him to submit a grant application. The grant is through the Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership. […]
June 26, 2023 | Photo – Barber Lake Picnic Site – Courtesy fs.usda.gov If you’re angling for high country fishing this holiday weekend, Barber Lake is now ready for use by recreationists. The U.S. Forest Service filled the popular spot last week then Wyoming Game and Fish stocked it with catchable fish. The Barber Lake […]
June 26, 2023 | Photo – Hanna Recreation Center – Bigfoot99 file photo The Town of Hanna is looking for answers on how to keep the rec center there open as they face the realities of a budget crunch. Last Thursday, June 22nd, Hanna town officials asked the public to attend a meeting at the […]
June 23, 2023 | Photo – Town of Saratoga Logo – Courtesy Town of Saratoga Saratoga’s town clerk will step down from the job next month. Marie Christen has served as the clerk for the town of Saratoga since being selected by then mayor Creed James through an application process in March of 2021. Christen, […]
June 23, 2023 | Photo – Old Kentucky Fried Chicken Building off of Higley Blvd in Rawlins – Courtesy google maps Two business owners in Rawlins have requested that the city council waive the landfill fees for their operations. During Tuesday’s Rawlins city council meeting, Councilwoman Jacquelin Wells motioned to extend the landfill fee waiver […]
June 23, 2023 | Photo – Artemis Langford, transgender named in civil lawsuit – Courtesy facebook.com The defendants involved in the University of Wyoming Kappa Kappa Gamma civil lawsuit over their efforts to insert a biological male into the Laramie sorority filed motions Tuesday to dismiss the case in federal district court. The motion comes […]
June 23, 2023 | Photo – Blue Star Memorial similar to memorial being dedicated in Encampment – Courtesy gardenclub.org Encampment’s gardening club will honor veterans with a plaque commemorating their service and sacrifice. This Saturday, outside of the Grand Encampment Museum, the Dirt Diggers Gardening Club will dedicate a memorial honoring all U.S. servicemen and […]
June 22, 2023 | Photo – Emery Penner – Courtesy Salmon, Idaho website Saratoga has hired a new public works director. Since the resignation of Jon Winter last October, Saratoga has been without a designated person in charge of the public works department. The council debated whether Saratoga is large enough to justify having a […]
June 22, 2023 | Photo – Sage Grouse – Bigfoot99 file photo Public input is being sought around the state on new sage grouse habitat maps. On Tuesday, June 27th, the South-Central Sage Grouse Local Working Group will hold a meeting in Saratoga. Wyoming Game and Fish Wildlife Biologist Teal Cufaude explained the purpose of […]
June 22, 2023 | Photo – Lightning Strike – Courtesy National Weather Service Some folks posting to a local social media page wondered if mysterious flashes of light spotted off Highway 30 in Carbon County Tuesday night might be space aliens from a far-away planet. At least that was the Facebook chatter on a Rawlins […]
June 22, 2023 | Photo – Wyoming License Plate – Bigfoot99 file photo Wyoming residents are reminded that changes to license plates for light trailers go into effect with a change in state law on July 1. Light trailers are defined as trailers weighing less than 1,000 lbs. Beginning July 1, owners can purchase a […]
June 22, 2023 | Photo – Cell Phone Towers – Courtesy TowerCo The county board commissioners reluctantly agreed this week to allow construction of a new cell tower south of Interstate 80. During Tuesday’s Carbon County Commissioners meeting, the board discussed conditional use permit number 2023-03. The permit would allow Union Wireless to construct a […]
June 21, 2023 | Photo – Hobo Hot Pools in Saratoga – Courtesy Carbon County Visitor’s Council (Discover Carbon County) In Saratoga, town workers Tuesday finished preparing the famous hot pools for opening after flood waters shut them down this spring. The hot pools are now open with the North Platte River receding. Heavy, high-country […]
June 21, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Courthouse – Bigfoot99 file photo In Rawlins, nagging physical problems are plaguing the newly remodeled Carbon County Courthouse. At yesterday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners Meeting, Building and Grounds Superintendent Mike Newbrough discussed an electrical problem at the courthouse. Newbrough said water damaged the electrical system and […]
June 21, 2023 | Photo – Hanna Marshal’s Office Vehicle – Bigfoot99 file photo In a new development in an ongoing story, Hanna officials will need to pay the Carbon County Sheriff’s office to patrol their town. Hanna hasn’t had a full-time law enforcement officer since former Town Marshal Ted Kranenberg joined the sheriff’s department […]
June 21, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Museum and Out-buildings – Bigfoot99 file photo Immature vandals defaced Saratoga Museum’s outdoor pavilion earlier this month, but the offensive material was only discovered this week. On Monday afternoon, vulgar drawings were discovered scrawled onto the floor of the pavilion at the grounds of the Saratoga Museum on […]
June 21, 2023 | Photo – Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps – Courtesy bluedevils.org This Saturday, June 17, the University of Wyoming will host the Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps as they perform their 2023 “The Cut Outs” program. The Blue Devils are a competitive marching music ensemble based in Concord, Calif. The […]
June 21, 2023 | Photo – The TWE Project’s ceremonial groundbreaking included, from left, TransWest CEO Bill Miller, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon, and TransWest COO Roxane Perruso. Courtesy TWE Several Biden Administration officials joined Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon on Tuesday, south of Rawlins, for the ceremonial groundbreaking […]
June 20, 2023 | Photo – Mud ruts in dirt road – Bigfoot99 file photo The Carbon County Road and Bridge Department has asked commissioners to update the county’s road maintenance policies. During the June 6th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Road and Bridge Superintendent Kandis Fritz said she often hears from residents with […]
June 20, 2023 | Photo – Spring Avenue Bore Pit – Bigfoot99 file photo In Saratoga, the Spring Avenue Utility and Street Improvement Project is close to being finalized. During the June 6th Saratoga town council meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis said the Spring Ave project is nearly finished. Mayor Davis said T-O Engineers, the engineering […]
June 20, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Fire Department crew and truck – Bigfoot99 file photo The Rawlins Fire Department responded to a dumpster fire over the weekend. The RFD received the call Sunday evening from the Bitter Creek Apartments, at 434 East Hugus Street. Battalion Chief Allen Robinson said a protective barrier around the […]
June 20, 2023 | Photo – Coach Jim Brandenburg – Courtesy UW Athletics Department One of Wyoming’s all-time great basketball coaches passed away this weekend. Jim Brandenburg was 87. Brandenburg led Wyoming to four conference titles and three NCAA tournaments, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 1987. Wyoming was a national brand during his tenure […]
June 19, 2023 | Photo – Historic photo of freed slaves – Courtesy National Museum of African American History Today is a federal holiday. Banks and federal offices are closed. It’s Juneteenth, commemorating the date when Union soldiers reached Galveston, Texas, in 1865 to liberate the last remaining enslaved people not yet freed as ordered […]
June 19, 2023 | Photo – Bridge behind Saratoga Hot Springs Resort – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99 WYDOT will replace a bridge in Saratoga for free. At the June 6th town council meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis said WYDOT had discovered faults on a small bridge in the neighborhood behind the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort. Mayor […]
June 19, 2023 | Photo – Bureau of Land Management Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo Governor Mark Gordon, in testimony Thursday before the House Committee on Natural Resources, described a proposed conservation rule that scuttles multiple-use policy on federal lands as “boneheaded.” The Bureau of Land Management, under the direction of former Monkey Wrench environmental […]
June 19, 2023 | Photo – Judge Dawnessa Snyder, Deputy Nokes, and Sheriff Bakken – Courtesy CCSO Since Alex Bakken was elected Carbon County Sheriff, he has been filling open positions in his department. Sheriff Bakken said the jail has been the most difficult place to find new recruits. To combat the lack of available […]
June 16, 2023 | Photo – Flood Warning Map for June 16, 2023 – Courtesy National Weather Service Carbon County will be green in July. The National Weather Service says 2023 has been wetter than average. For some, that has put a damper on an early start to summer fun. It seems like it has […]
June 16, 2023 | Photo – Map of Rawlins – Bigfoot99 file photo The Rawlins City Engineer is working to make it easier for residents to get around town. During the June 5th Rawlins city council meeting, city engineer Austin Gilbert said he is moving forward with extending the eastern end of Davis Street, on […]
June 16, 2023 | Photo – Hanna Marshal’s Office – Courtesy hannaheadlight.com The Hanna Marshal’s Office is seeking qualified applicants. The town of Hanna has been without a dedicated law enforcement officer after former marshal Ted Kranenberg joined the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office in March. Since that time, Hanna has relied on the sheriff’s department […]
June 16, 2023 | Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo The Saratoga police chief requests to purchase spike strips. During the June 6th Saratoga town council meeting, Police Chief Mike Morris provided an update on the number of calls his department has responded to this year. Chief Morris said the police dispatch […]
June 15, 2023 | Photo – Mayor Irene signs off on Elk Mountain Cemetery Plan- Courtesy Brett Larson The Elk Mountain town council approved a cemetery mapping project as an expansion of the burial grounds appears on the horizon. The Elk Mountain Cemetery Board has been working with David Hammond, of Hammond Land Survey, to […]
June 15, 2023 | Photo – Wyoming Sage Grouse – Bigfoot99 file photo Governor Mark Gordon is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the State of Wyoming’s sage-grouse core area protection map. The revisions are proposed by the Sage-grouse Implementation Team (SGIT) subcommittee. The original sage-grouse core area protection strategy and map were developed […]
June 15, 2023 | Photo – Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm – Courtesy departmentofenergy.gov In Washington, D.C., Wyoming Senator John Barrasso is seeking more information about the financial holdings of Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm. The Biden Administration appointee recently informed the Barrasso’s energy committee that she “mistakenly” provided false testimony about her […]
June 15, 2023 | Photo – Airbnb property in Saratoga – courtesy airbnb.com The Saratoga Planning Commission is nearing a decision on short-term rental permits. During Tuesday’s Saratoga Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, committee members discussed the need to limit short-term rentals, such as Airbnb and VRBO. The members considered if a permitting process would […]
June 14, 2023 | Photo – Corbett Medical Building now the Valley Village Daycare – Bigfoot99 file photo In Saratoga, Valley Village Daycare is asking Saratoga to a waive water connection fee. With the opening of the North Platte Valley Medical Center, the Corbett Medical Building was sold to Valley Village Childcare for $1. The […]
June 14, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Water Tank – Bigfoot99 file photo With southern Wyoming drinking in weeks of rainy weather, the City of Rawlins is easing restrictions on water use. On Monday, the city officials announced a more relaxed schedule of municipal water restrictions. Rawlins Public Works Director Cody Dill said spring run-off […]
June 14, 2023| Photo – RPD Badge and Patch – Bigfoot99 file photo A pair of brothers missing from Rawlins were found safe this week. On Monday afternoon, Rawlins police responded to a call concerning two runaway children. Lieutenant Jared Frakes said the two brothers, 13-year-old Skyler and 12-year-old Luke Pickett, were reported missing by […]
June 13, 2023 | Photo – Steering Committee Application Poster – courtesy Carbon County Planning and Development Office Carbon County officials are looking to update the eleven-year-old Land Use Plan. Residents with strong ties to the area are asked to help shape the document’s update. The county’s Planning and Development Director, Sarah Brugger, said the […]
June 13, 2023 | Photo – Location of Two Rivers Wind Project – courtesy US Fish and Wildlife Service The Carbon County Board of Commissioners put the proposed Two Rivers Wind Energy Project on hold until a BLM review of the installation is completed. At last Tuesday’s commissioners meeting, Planning and Zoning Director Sarah Brugger […]
June 13, 2023 | Photo – Lawn sprinkler – Bigfoot99 file photo In Rawlins, water restrictions have been loosened following the recent spring rains and the filling of the municipal water tanks. The city announced on its web site on Monday that residents and businesses may water their lawns as many days as desired. The […]
June 13, 2023 | Photo – Hanna Rec Center – Bigfoot99 file photo Hanna will hold a public meeting to discuss the town’s recreation center. It’s no secret that the Hanna Recreation Center costs the town a lot of money to operate. Bigfoot99 doesn’t have exact numbers, but back in March, we reported on rumors […]
June 12, 2023 | Photo – North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo The threat of flooding along the rivers in Carbon County has passed with no significant impact this spring, the National Weather Service reported on Friday. The good news came during the final scheduled conference call for flood coordinators and the Carbon County […]
June 12, 2023 | Photo – Donald Trump – Bigfoot99 file photo Wyoming’s Congressional Delegation said in separate statements over the weekend that Friday’s indictment of former President Donald Trump is a politicized case designed to derail his re-election campaign. Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 presidential election, faces over 300 years in jail stemming […]
June 12, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo The Rawlins City Council is looking to toughen up code on derelict vehicles around town. During last week’s council work session, Code Enforcement Officer Brian Markut gave an update on his department. Markut explained to the council what types of code violations […]
June 9, 2023 | Photo – Hobo Hot Pools – Bigfoot99 file photo The Saratoga town council this week considered when to reopen the Hobo Hot Springs, which have been closed because of high waters. Winter snowfall and resulting spring runoff produced near-overflow conditions along the North Platte River in the town. Because of high […]
June 9, 2023 | Photo – Flood Warning System – Courtesy National Weather Service The Carbon County Office of Emergency Management received a grant to purchase early warning flood monitors for the Mullen burn scar. Starting in September of 2020, the Mullen fire burned over 176,000 acres of Wyoming and Colorado wildlands. The loss of […]
June 9, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo Rawlins Urban Systems Chairwoman Judy Dixon updated the city council this week on the committee’s projects. During Monday’s meeting, Dixon said the committee seeks public feedback to determine the priority of federally funded streets projects in the city. She explained how the […]
June 9, 2023 | Photo – Centennial Visitor Center – Courtesy fs.usda.gov It’s a sure sign of summer. The Centennial Visitor Center at the gateway to the Medicine Bow National Forest opened for the season Thursday on the east side of the Snowy Range. The popular visitor center is located just west of Centennial on […]
June 9, 2023 | Photo – Red-Rim Grizzly Wildlife Habitat Management Area – Courtesy WY Wildlife Foundation The Wyoming Wildlife Foundation is looking for volunteers to help replace miles of fencing in Carbon County. The Grizzly Wildlife Habitat Management Area, between Baggs and Rawlins, is a major big game migration corridor. The 17-miles of barbwire […]
June 8, 2023 | Photo – Rawlins Landfill – Courtesy City of Rawlins The Rawlins landfill received a perfect score recently during a surprise state inspection. Twice each year, inspectors from the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality pay an unannounced visit to landfills around the state. Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller said the city’s […]
June 8, 2023 | Photo – Architect’s drawing of aquatic center – Bigfoot99 file photo In Saratoga, Nick Haderlie updated the town council about his proposed aquatic center. Nick Haderlie is an attorney. He also runs Platte Valley Martial Arts in Saratoga. During Tuesday’s town council meeting, Haderlie provided the council members with some history […]
June 8, 2023 | Photo – John Daily Hammond – Bigfoot99 file photo The Carbon County Sheriff says authorities are close to identifying the remains found in the Pedro Mountains. Last month, shed horn hunters reported finding skeletal human remains in the Pedro Mountains, north of Hanna. At the time, Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken […]
June 7, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County School District #2 Building – Bigfoot99 file photo The Sheriff’s Office is moving to close to reaching an agreement to have a resource officer in Carbon County School District #2. A focus on school safety was one of Alex Bakken’s campaign promises when he ran for Carbon […]
June 7, 2023 | Photo – Carbon County Museum – Bigfoot99 file photo The Carbon County Museum is hosting a community event this weekend. This Saturday, as a kickoff to the summer season, the Carbon County Museum is holding an event called Day Out at the Carbon County Museum. Museum Director Tom Mensik said the […]
June 7, 2023 | Photo – Flaming Gorge Days – Courtesy Travel Wyoming In southwestern Wyoming, the City of Green River cancelled this year’s Flaming Gorge Days scheduled to take place this month. Flaming Gorge Days is organized by a dedicated standalone committee comprised of the URA Main Street Director and a group of volunteer […]
June 7, 2023| Photo – North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo The worst appears to be behind us, said National Weather Service, addressing the flood situation in Carbon County on Tuesday. On last night’s county-wide flood coordinator call, National Weather Service Warning Coordination Meteorologist Jared Allen said none of the county’s rivers are at […]
June 6, 2023 |
Photo – Medincine Bow Marshal’s Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Medicine Bow Marshal’s Office will build a shooting range for themselves and the public to use.
During the May 8th Medicine Bow town council meeting, Marshal Roger Hawks said his department would move forward with the construction of a shooting range on town owned land. Marshal Hawks told Bigfoot99 that the range will be built south of town, on the other side of Highway 30. The marshal said having a shooting range close by will save his department time and money from traveling to and from Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Med-Bow-Range-1.mp3Marshal Hawks said he began thinking about building the shooting range last year. The marshal said heavy snowfall delayed the beginning of construction. Marshal Hawks said residents will also be able to use the shooting range when it is completed later in the summer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Med-Bow-Range-2.mp3Marshal Hawks said he and his deputies will use the range to maintain pistol and rifle certifications. The marshal said the actual dimensions of the shooting range haven’t been finalized, but he said he would like to have targets up to almost a mile away.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Med-Bow-Range-3.mp3Marshal Hawks said the range will likely only feature paper targets when it opens. The marshal said he would like to get metal targets in the future.
Marshal Hawks said the shooting range should not be difficult to construct. He said some dirt work is all that should be required to get it operational.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Med-Bow-Range-4.mp3Marshal Hawks said he is considering instituting a membership fee to cover the cost of upkeep. He said the Marshal’s Office would likely handle the shooting range maintenance.
June 6, 2023 |
Photo – 988 Hotline Logo – Courtesy army.mil
The Carbon County Prevention Network is hosting two suicide prevention training seminars in Saratoga.
On June 21st and 22nd, in the Platte Valley Community Center, representatives from the Carbon County Prevention Network will hold classes on how to recognize a person in crisis and prevent them from committing suicide.
During May 16th‘s Saratoga town council meeting, CCPN Community Engagement Consultant Tracy Young gave a presentation about her organization. Young explained the Carbon County Prevention Network’s suicide prevention classes.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Suicide-Prevention-1.mp3The Carbon County Prevention Network provides information about alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and suicide. Young said her organization collects data on underage drug and alcohol use as well as adult alcohol over usage.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Suicide-Prevention-2.mp3Young said CCPN also gathers information on tobacco use in the state. She said vaping, or E-Cigarettes, has overtaken conventional cigarettes as the most common use of nicotine. Young explained that vaping is seen by young people as a trendy alternative to traditional smoking methods.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Suicide-Prevention-3.mp3Young said the negative health impacts of vaping weren’t known when electronic smoking was first introduced. The Community Engagement Consultant said the Carbon County Prevention Network has new data showing how harmful vaping is. Young said her organization is collaborating with public officials to spread the word.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Suicide-Prevention-4.mp3Young said THC concentrates are often vaped in the same way as tobacco. She said edibles and other forms of stronger marijuana are making their way north from Colorado. She said the Carbon County Prevention Network is working with lawmakers to inform people about the dangers of concentrated THC products.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Suicide-Prevention-5.mp3Young said people in crisis have a phone number they can call for help. Similar to 911, 988 is a nation-wide emergency number that gives callers access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal, substance use, and mental health crises. Young said calling 988 will connect you to a counselor in either Cheyenne or Casper.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Suicide-Prevention-6.mp3Young said people can call 988 for friends and loved ones too.
The Carbon County Prevention Network’s suicide prevention training is being held at the Platte Valley Community Center. On June 21st, the class begins at 10:00am. The next day, June 22nd, the program starts at 8:30am. Contact Tracy Young at communityisprevention@gmail.com to register for training or ask questions.
June 6, 2023 |
Photo – Elk Mountain Cemetery – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Elk Mountain Cemetery Board is working to fix decades old clerical errors on where people are buried. The board also wants to expand the graveyard.
Back in March, Bigfoot99 reported on Elk Mountain Cemetery Board Commissioner Brett Larson’s efforts to survey and organize the town’s graveyard. In the interview, Larson said the town was working off a map of the cemetery made in the 1960’s. He said duplicate maps were made, each with their own alterations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Elk-Mtn-Cemetery-1.mp3Decades of poor record-keeping have meant that some people aren’t buried where the maps say they are. Some unmarked graves are not listed on the plans at all, meaning the town has no way of knowing who is buried in the plot. Other sites were sold multiple times or listed with the incorrect family name.
In March, the Elk Mountain Cemetery Board hired Dave Hammond, of Hammond Land Survey in Laramie, to perform a detailed review of the cemetery. When finished, Hammond’s survey will give the town a more accurate idea of who is buried where in the graveyard. The survey will also allow the cemetery to plan for expansion.
The winter snows have finally receded, and Hammond was able to physically survey the site recently. During last Thursday’s Elk Mountain Cemetery Board meeting, Hammond said he found the original cemetery boundary markers where they should be.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Elk-Mtn-Cemetery-2.mp3The cemetery is shaped like a triangle with the western edge cut off where it intersects with state land. The town can expand the graveyard eastward, but would need to extend the existing dirt roads into the new section. Hammond told the Cemetery Board members that roads wouldn’t need to be constructed right away. Having his accurate map would allow the town to make additions in the future.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Elk-Mtn-Cemetery-3.mp3Hammond asked the board members how they wanted the added space on the southeast corner of the cemetery to be used. Larson said they should create more burial plots in the area. Cemetery Board member Craig Jones agreed, saying they should increase the number of places for cremated remains, as well.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Elk-Mtn-Cemetery-4.mp3When the meeting was finished, Hammond and the Cemetery Board members agreed on the scope of the work. Hammond would survey all the existing graves and compare his findings with the original maps. He will also mark out additional grave sites in the unused southeast corner of the cemetery.
Hammond isn’t working for free. During the meeting, the surveyor said he needed the board’s blessing of his plan before providing a cost estimate. Hammond told Larson that he would determine his fee before the June 12th town council meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0606_Elk-Mtn-Cemetery-5.mp3Larson must ask the council to approve Hammond’s rate estimate before more work can be done. Larson said the Cemetery Board’s $12,000 budget should more than enough to cover Hammond’s fee.
June 6, 2023 |
Photo – Secure Your Load Logo – Courtesy secureyourload.com
Interstate 80 throughout Carbon County, as well as some of the state highways here, see a lot of people moving things—big and small—from one place to another. Not all of it is commercial.
A lot of do-it-yourselfers are moving stuff, locally and even across the country. Here’s an important reminder from the Wyoming Highway Patrol.
Today, June 6, is “Secure Your Load Day.”
It’s all about raising awareness about securing vehicle items to ensure road safety. Awareness about securing loads isn’t just about commercial truck drivers. Novices need to be aware about securing loads, especially when moving household or job-related items.
Even a simple trip across town can result in disaster if you don’t secure your load properly.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0607_Secure-Your-Load.mp3Don’t count on luck. Before hitting the road, take a moment to inspect your vehicle and the items you are transporting to ensure they are correctly secured.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol reminds you to secure your load, not just today, but every time you hit the road.
June 5, 2023 |
Photo – North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo
Cooler temperatures over the weekend reduced the threat of additional flooding across the county over the weekend despite the forecast for rain.
Relief was sensed on Friday during the bi-weekly phone call between the Carbon County Office of Emergency Management and the county’s flood vulnerable towns. National Weather Service Senior Hydrologist Tony Anderson said even considering the increased precipitation from last week, his data didn’t show any forecasted or observed flooding. Anderson said the threat of flooding on the Little Snake and North Platte Rivers were remaining stable or diminishing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Flood-Watch-1.mp3Anderson said the water level will continue to fluctuate as snow melts quickly during the day and slows down at night.
Typically, our areas sees the highest river water levels during the second and third weeks of June. Anderson said both the Little Snake and North Platte Rivers appear to have peaked last week.
Anderson said this week will start off drier than last week.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Flood-Watch-2.mp3Anderson said the rain could accelerate snowmelt in higher elevations, but won’t have a significant effect on river levels. However, the National Weather Service Hydrologist said an unusually large rainstorm could alter his predictions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Flood-Watch-3.mp3Anderson said his forecast models for the Little Snake River show the water level decreasing. He said the river should continue to decline, unless something unexpected happened.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Flood-Watch-4.mp3Looking at conditions on the North Platte River, Anderson said the Town of Sinclair was out of danger. The National Weather Service Hydrologist said he predicts the North Platte River at Saratoga remained steady.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Flood-Watch-5.mp3Saratoga’s emergency manager Sergeant Tyler Christen agreed with the National Weather Service forecast. Sgt. Christen said the river might rise a bit from the rain in the Snowy Range, but he didn’t think it would flood.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Flood-Watch-6.mp3Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman said the positive forecast has him thinking about ending the bi-weekly phone calls. Layman said he’ll still do at least two more calls, but he is looking at demobilizing the county’s flood response operation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Flood-Watch-7.mp3Layman said the towns would decide what their demobilization processes would look like. He said temporary barriers and dams could be disassembled. The emergency manager said the county will determine the best use for the remaining sandbags.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Flood-Watch-8.mp3In anticipation of flooding, Layman and the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security brought sand and bags to the Wyoming State Penitentiary. Inmates filled the sandbags and they were distributed to Carbon County’s flood prone towns. Layman said he’ll see what the Office of Homeland Security wants to do with the remaining sandbags. He said the bags could be used in other areas of the state.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Flood-Watch-9.mp3According to the National Weather Service, it appears the flood threat may be behind us. Layman and the other Carbon County flood coordinators may begin to stand down their flood preparations as early as next week.
June 5, 2023 |
Photo – Internet Cables – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Wyoming Business Council will host a series of in-person public input meetings about broadband internet access.
In 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act which provides funding to various nation-wide infrastructure sectors, such as energy and transportation. The new federal law obligates over $42-million in federal spending to increase the availability of high-speed internet access across the country through a program called Broadband Equity Access and Development, or BEAD.
Starting this month, the Wyoming Business Council will be visiting towns around the state to gather information about resident’s thoughts on their broadband internet access. Wyoming Business Council Broadband Manager Elaina Zempel said the meetings are necessary for the state to be eligible for BEAD funding.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Broadband-1.mp3Zempel said the meetings will allow the public to express any comments or concerns they have about internet access in their area.
Using information gathered from the meetings, Zempel said the Wyoming Business Council can request government funding. The broadband manager said the money will be used to supply as many residents as possible with 120 megabits per second download speed internet.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Broadband-2.mp3Zempel said fixed wireless transmitter sites and satellite internet would be needed for areas where fiberoptic cable couldn’t be used. She said Wyoming’s large size and sparse population makes it impossible to provide everyone in the state with high-speed internet.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Broadband-3.mp3Public input is required for the state to receive BEAD funding. Zempel said people who aren’t able to make it to one of the in-person meetings should go to the Wyoming Business Council website and fill out a survey.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Broadband-4.mp3On Wednesday, June 7th, the Wyoming Business Council will be at the Carbon County Higher Education Center, at 1615 Harshman Street. The meeting will be from 9:00 to 11:30am. The list of other meeting dates and locations as well as the broadband surveys can be found on the Wyoming Business Council website at wyomingbusiness.org by opening the Communities tab and clicking on Broadband.
June 5, 2023 |
Photo – CCVC Logo – Courtesy CCVC
The CCVC is working on a tourism master plan to increase recreational travel into our area.
The Carbon County Visitor’s Council, also known as Discover Carbon County, has received money from the Wyoming Office of Tourism. CCVC Chief Executive Officer Leslie Jefferson said she will use a portion of the state’s Destination Development funding to create a Carbon County Tourism Master Plan. Jefferson explained what a tourism master plan is.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Tourism-Plan-1.mp3According to the Wyoming Department of Tourism website, the Destination Development program was founded last December to help local communities become more visitor-ready.
The Carbon County Visitor’s Council has never had a tourism master plan. Jefferson said in the past, she has teamed up with other hospitality-focused organizations to conduct tourism studies. However, Jefferson said a county-wide tourism master plan would be far more comprehensive.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Tourism-Plan-2.mp3Jefferson said the tourism master plan process is broken up into two phases. She said the research phase began at the May 19th Steering Committee Kick-Off meeting in Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Tourism-Plan-3.mp3Jefferson said the Carbon County Visitor’s Council has teamed up with Darren Rudloff, of Rudloff Solutions, to create the tourism master plan. Rudloff Solutions is a Cheyenne based company that specializes in tourism strategies and market research. Jefferson said Rudloff walked the steering committee through the research procedure.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Tourism-Plan-4.mp3Under Rudloff’s direction, Jefferson said the steering committee will consult other master plans from municipalities around Carbon County. She said the committee will use the information to determine how to improve tourism in the county.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Tourism-Plan-5.mp3Jefferson said the completed tourism master plan will benefit the entire county. She said out-of-state businesses can use the master plan to justify expanding into our area.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0605_Tourism-Plan-6.mp3Jefferson quoted Carbon County Visitor’s Council Marketing Coordinator Megan McComas: “A place that people like to visit is a place people like to live.” Jefferson said anything done to increase our area’s appeal to travelers will also improve the quality of life for Carbon County residents.
June 5, 2023 |
Photo – Elk Mountain – Courtesy Carbon County Visitor’s Council
In a public lands issue that divides the haves and the have-nots, a federal judge recently ruled in favor of out-of-state, corner-crossing hunters.
The four Missouri hunters have cleared a second legal hurdle after being acquitted of criminal trespassing charges on May 7, 2022. The four men were accused of trespassing on the Elk Mountain Ranch. On May 27, U.S. District Judge Scott Skavdahl granted the hunter’s request to dismiss the $7.5 million lawsuit brought by the ranch’s owner, Fred Eschelman. The hunters named in the lawsuit are Phillip Yeomans, Bradly Cape, John Slowensky, and Zachary Smith.
The case stems from an early 2020’s hunting trip where the four men used a specially-designed ladder to cross from one corner of public land to another. Eschelman claimed the men trespassed when they crossed the airspace above his 22,000-acre ranch. In September of 2021, Carbon County Attorney Ashley Davis brought charges against the four men. Carbon County District Judge Dawnessa Snyder presided over the case. After a two-day trial, Judge Snyder found the men not guilty of trespassing.
Roughly three months before the criminal trial began, Eschelman filed his $7 million civil damage claim against the hunters.
In his ruling, Judge Skavdahl said, “the Court finds that where a person corner crosses on foot within the checkerboard from public land to public land without touching the surface of private land and without damaging private property, there is no liability for trespass.”
The ruling is being celebrated as a victory for outdoor enthusiasts and sportsmen. With almost a third of Wyoming’s public land sandwiched between private holdings, access was all but impossible before last week’s ruling.
The case isn’t over yet. One of the hunters, Zachary Smith is charged with another trespassing charge unrelated to the corner crossing incident. Eschelman’s attorneys claim that Smith’s GPS program showed he was on Elk Mountain Ranch property in 2020. Smith’s attorney disputes the claim, saying the GPS waypoint could have been made from anywhere.
Judge Skavdahl will hear Eschelman’s case against Smith sometime this month.
Judge Skavdahl said the hunters did not touch or harm Eshelman’s private land when they corner-crossed. He concluded that “corner crossing on foot in the checkerboard pattern of land ownership, without physically, contacting private land and, without causing damage to private property does not constitute an unlawful trespass.”
June, 2, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
June is budget crunch time for local governments across Wyoming, including Saratoga.
Facing a shortfall in income, the town council has been discussing how to allocate the reduced funding. Saratoga is bracing for a $1.6 million reduction in tax and impact assistance income for the upcoming fiscal year. Mayor Chuck Davis said the town has money, but much of it is set aside for specific-purpose tax projects. The mayor said those monies cannot be used for anything other than the projects voters approved.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_Saratoga-Budget-1.mp3The town has approximately $7.9 million in reserve, but the money can only be spent on projects taxpayers approved with the 6th penny tax referendum. Mayor Davis said the special purpose tax money cannot be used for any other purpose.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_Saratoga-Budget-2.mp3One of the recent hot-button issues is increased funding for the swimming pool, including staff.
The town has $174,650 of specific purpose tax funding allocated for improvements to the pool. Mayor Davis said that money must be used on pool improvements. He said it can’t be used for anything else, such as wages for lifeguards or other pool employees.
The mayor said the specific purpose tax money could not legally be used to supplement the town’s general fund account.
During the May 16th town council meeting, the fiscal year 2023 through 2024 budget was read for the first time. Town clerk Marie Christen said the town anticipated receiving nearly $3 million dollars for the general fund. Factoring in decreased tax revenue and impact assistance money, Christen said the general fund would have $1,658,786.88 less than expected. Mayor Davis explained the various services and departments the town pays for out of the general fund.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_Saratoga-Budget-3.mp3Davis said the town has various methods of generating money. The mayor reiterated that the special purpose tax money could only be used for the projects identified when voters cast their ballots. Money for other needs, such as routine town functions, must come from the general fund.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_Saratoga-Budget-4.mp3The Saratoga town council has a large deficit to fill while maintaining funding for Mayor Davis’s four essential departments: police, fire, streets, and water and sewer. The mayor has made it clear that all other services will be paid for using what’s left of the budget.
June 2, 2023 |
Photo – Flooded section of Hwy 130 – Courtesy Mack Miller
Flowing water closed the road heading into the Snowy Range for a brief time earlier this week. WYDOT crews responded and reopened he road after the short closure.
Around 8:00pm on Tuesday evening, the Wyoming Department of Transportation was alerted to a flooded section of Highway 130 between milepost 47 and 57. WYDOT Public Relations Specialist Andrea Staley said road crews are working to repair the flood damaged section of road.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_WYDOT-1.mp3Staley said the road was reopened less than two hours later.
Every year WYDOT plow crews work to open the Snowy Range and Battle Mountain passes by Memorial Day weekend. Both roadways were cleared by last Thursday. With the scenic drives open, WYDOT crews are focused on road maintenance and cleanup elsewhere in the state. Staley said when it comes to the state’s roads, no news is good news.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_WYDOT-2.mp3Tuesday night’s brief road closure is a reminder that flooding is still an issue through the weekend as people venture outdoors. The National Weather Service forecast model shows that that the North Platte River at Saratoga is expected to rise beginning today, and reaching a peak around 7.9 feet on Saturday, before falling back below “action” stage early next week.
If you’re near rivers, creeks, or streams this weekend, be aware the water will be high and moving fast.
June 2, 2023 |
Photo – Bobbie Herman with her Hanna mural – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Over Memorial Day weekend, the Hanna Basin Museum unveiled a new artwork featuring scenes from the town’s past and present.
About two years ago, local artist Bobbie Herman said she was contacted by the former Hanna Basin Museum director to create a mural about the town of Hanna and the surrounding area. Herman said she was reluctant to undertake such an ambitious task, but was convinced when she began researching the local history.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_Hanna-Mural-1.mp3Carbon County was established in 1868, 22 years before Wyoming became a state. The towns of Carbon and Hanna were founded that same year and provided the Union Pacific Railroad with coal for its locomotives. Eventually, the coal seams beneath Carbon dried up. However, Hanna remained a large coal producer into the early 20th century. As the nation’s appetite for coal diminished, so too did the profitability of the Hanna mines. The last coal mine closed in 2005.
Herman said her large, three-panel mural depicts the story of the area from the first underground workings up to the present day.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_Hanna-Mural-2.mp3The middle of Herman’s mural is dominated by black and white depictions of the mine entrance, miner workers, and the town as it looked in the 1890’s. Color portraits of contemporary Hanna surround the monochromatic center. Herman has recreated both of the town’s schools and a modern Union Pacific locomotive among many other Hanna landmarks in her painting.
Herman said she couldn’t complete her artwork before the holiday weekend’s unveiling. The artist said she will take the painting back to her home to finish. Afterwards, Herman said it will be on permanent display in the Hanna Basin Museum, at 502 Front Street.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_Hanna-Mural-3.mp3Carbon County played an important part in America’s westward expansion. The area provided coal for the Union Pacific Railroad, which linked the west coast to the rest of the country. Herman said the more she learned about the area’s past, the more interested she became.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_Hanna-Mural-4.mp3Herman’s triptych will become a permanent part of the Hanna Basin Museum’s collection when she finishes the painting. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the museum is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, from 1:00 to 5:00pm. After Labor Day, the museum is only open on Fridays, from 1:00 to 5:00pm.
June 2, 2023 |
Photo – Drawing of Never Forget Park – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga’s Never Forget Park committee is raising money by selling personalized plaques and benches.
The Never Forget Park project started from a desire to honor local hero, Army Staff Sergeant Tyler Pickett of Saratoga. Pickett was killed in action in 2008 while serving in Iraq. To show the town’s appreciation for Sgt. Pickett’s sacrifice, and the sacrifice of every man and woman who served our country, the Never Forget Park committee was formed. The committee’s goal is to spearhead the construction of an outdoor recreation area between Veteran’s Island and the Hot Springs Resort.
The park has slowly taken shape over the past 15 years, going through many design changes along the way. The latest curb and gutter plans were delivered this past winter. With warm weather here, Never Forget Park committee member Stacy Crimmins is eager to begin construction. However, the cost of materials, specifically asphalt, has risen significantly. More financial support from the public is needed. Crimmins is spearheading a fundraiser called “Purchase-A-Plate.”
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_NFP-Fundraiser-1.mp3For $100, people can purchase a metal plaque inscribed with four lines of custom text, such as the name and birthdate of a loved one. The plates will then be affixed to benches around the park. For $1,000, a person can choose to sponsor the construction of one of the benches. Crimmins described how the benches would be manufactured.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_NFP-Fundraiser-2.mp3Crimmins said she expects anywhere between 12 and 15 benches to be available for purchase. She said each bench will have the name and a message from the person who sponsored it. Crimmins said the metal plaques will then be bolted around the edge of the seat.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_NFP-Fundraiser-3.mp3The park is being funded by a combination of donations, grants, and money from the town. Crimmins said the “Purchase-A-Plate” fundraiser will help get construction started. She said she hopes to have the first phase of the project completed this year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_NFP-Fundraiser-4.mp3Plans for the Never Forget Park are broken up into several phases based on how much financial support the project receives. Crimmins said phase one would consist of paving the parking area and installing curbs and gutters. She said the idea is to also have electrical and irrigation systems installed in the first wave of construction.
If you would like to purchase a personalized plaque or bench, Crimmins said to deliver a check to the Saratoga town hall. She said properly addressed donations will find their way to the Never Forget Park committee.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_NFP-Fundraiser-5.mp3Crimmins said the town is working to enable online donations to the Never Forget Park through its bill pay system.
Every dollar counts, said Crimmins. She said if people were feeling especially philanthropic, larger donations can be made directly to a Never Forget Park committee member.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_NFP-Fundraiser-6.mp3Crimmins asked people to purchase the plates and benches as soon as possible. With summer already started, she said time is running out to have construction begin this year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0602_NFP-Fundraiser-7.mp3Crimmins and the Never Forget Park committee are inviting the public to help finish the park. Email info@neverforgetpark.com with any questions or to join the organization.
June 1, 2023 | Photo – North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo Carbon County’s flood danger is likely close to being over, says National Weather Service. Good news was shared during this week’s county-wide flood coordination call. National Weather Service Warning Coordination Meteorologist Jared Allen said no river in Carbon County is in, or […]
June 1, 2023 | Photo – Emergency Lights – Bigfoot99 file photo A Rawlins man apparently committed suicide last week within sight of the city’s elementary school. Rawlins Police Lieutenant Jared Frakes said last Thursday morning an unidentified man was found dead about a half mile from the Rawlins Elementary School. Lt. Frakes said he […]
June 1, 2023 | Photo – Past Arbor Day Tree Selections – Bigfoot99 file photo Rawlins will host a belated Arbor Day Celebration and Education Event this weekend. The city of Rawlins will celebrate Arbor Day on June 2nd and 3rd, a month later than the national observance of April 28th. University of Wyoming Ag […]
May 31, 2023 |
Photo – Rattlesnake – Bigfoot99 file photo
The warm weather has finally arrived. The outdoors is calling. As people hit the trails in Wyoming in late spring and summer, the chances of encountering a venomous snake increase.
Rattlesnakes are the most common type of venomous snake people will come across in the northern parts of Carbon County. If your adventure outdoors results in you getting bit by a venomous snake, Stayton Mosbey offers this advice, “Stay calm.”
Mosbey is the director of South-Central Wyoming Emergency Medical Services. He said if you are bitten by a snake, don’t panic. Mosbey said to call 911 and remain where you are.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0531_Snake-Bite-1.mp3Mosbey said not to apply a tourniquet to the affected limb. Tourniquets may increase the risk of necrosis by trapping the venom behind the compression device. The SCWEMS director also said not to put ice on the wound, as a cold compress could make the situation worse.
The best course of action, Mosbey said, is to sit still and stay calm. Breathe deep. Take it slow. Panicking can make the venom spread faster and cause more tissue damage.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0531_Snake-Bite-2.mp3Mosbey also advised against attempting to capture the snake after it bites you. He said emergency responders will assume it was a rattlesnake and treat the wound accordingly. The SCWEMS director said trying to catch the snake could result in you getting bit again, even if it appears to be dead. Mosbey’s advice is to calmly back away and call for help.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0531_Snake-Bite-3.mp3Mosbey said SCWEMS typically responds to one rattlesnake bite a year. He said depending on the severity of the bite, the victim could be transported out of the county for treatment.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0531_Snake-Bite-4.mp3Memorial Hospital of Carbon County, in Rawlins, carries the rattlesnake anti-venom, CroFab. MHCC Marketing, Communications, and Foundation Director Stephanie Hinkle said they keep six doses of CroFab on hand, which is enough to treat one grown adult. She said they limit their inventory due to the price and shelf life of the product.
Saratoga’s North Platte Valley Medical Center does not have CroFab in its inventory. A hospital representative said they can have the anti-venom transported via the Wyoming Highway Patrol from other hospitals in the area if necessary.
May 31, 2023 |
Photo – Old Golden West Motel in Rawlins – Courtesy bypassedbyI80.com
The city of Rawlins received a government grant to remediate abandoned and dangerous buildings.
Last Thursday, the Environmental Protection Agency awarded a $500,000 Brownfields Assessment grant to Rawlins. The EPA issued 18 Brownfields grants and Rawlins was the only Wyoming community to receive government funding. Since 1995, the EPA’s Brownfields Program has given about $2.37 billion in grants to clean up polluted sites and revitalize neglected areas.
Using the EPA’s assessment grant, the city will evaluate several blighted properties and determine if they can be reused for another purpose.
Executive Director of Rawlins Downtown Development Authority Main Street Pam Thayer said a team of city employees have been working for over a year on the Brownfields project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Brownfields-1.mp3Thayer said she and her team have created a map of buildings in the city that meet the Brownfields criteria. She explained that the city would not consider private homes for remediation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Brownfields-2.mp3Thayer said the EPA grant only allows the city to perform assessments on Brownfields qualified properties. The studies would begin by determining ownership of the land and ascertaining if any heavy metals or other toxic materials were present. Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller explained how the Brownfields assessment would be used to evaluate if a property needed decontamination.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Brownfields-3.mp3Thayer said the city’s Brownfields team would use the studies to determine which properties were most in need of remediation. She said the properties with the greatest potential to be revitalized would be addressed first.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Brownfields-4.mp3Thayer said the old Golden West Motel, at 822 West Pine Street, in Rawlins, will be one of the first buildings the city addresses using Brownfields funding. She said the property would be better used for lower cost housing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Brownfields-5.mp3Thayer said she understands the public’s frustration when they see derelict buildings not being dealt with. She said it’s not a simple matter for the city to clean up the properties. Thayer said four obstacles stand in way of the city’s rehabilitation attempts.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Brownfields-6.mp3Thayer said any privately owned properties identified through the Brownfields assessments would require the owner’s permission before any work could be done.
May 31, 2023 |
Photo – Houghton depiction of the E and H Building in Encampment WY – Courtesy Grand Encampment Museum
The Grand Encampment Museum will host a presentation on a famous artist known for his illustrations of the American West.
On June 26th, Michael Amundson will be at the Grand Encampment Museum. Amundson is a history professor at Northern Arizona University. He is an expert on Merritt Dana Houghton. Amundson said Houghton was a famous illustrator who did much of his work in Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_GEM-1.mp3Amundson said Houghton lived all across Wyoming, including in the namesake of our county, Carbon. The history professor said Houghton visited the Platte River Valley many times to create his art.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_GEM-2.mp3Amundson said Houghton’s drawings were often preferred over photographs. The history professor said the artist was able to create an idealized version of what he was seeing. Amundson said business owners used Houghton’s art to showcase the success of their operations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_GEM-3.mp3Amundson said Houghton also illustrated an early 20th century Wyoming history book. He said the artist used physical evidence and oral accounts to recreate structures from the past.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_GEM-4.mp3Houghton’s illustrations were not solely focused on recreating Carbon County’s population centers. Amundson said Houghton was a prolific artist who drew pictures of a variety of subjects.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_GEM-5.mp3Amundson said starting in mid-June, he will tour Wyoming, giving talks about Houghton. He said he chose his speaking engagements based on places the artist had visited during his career.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_GEM-6.mp3Amundson published a biography about the artist titled, “The Art and Life of Merritt Dana Houghton in the Northern Rockies, 1878-1919.”
He encourages anyone with an original Houghton drawing to bring it to his presentation. Amundson said he and his publisher are creating an online catalog of recently discovered illustrations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_GEM-7.mp3Amundson said the Grand Encampment Museum houses one of the largest collections of Houghton drawings in the country.
Michael Amundson’s presentation on the life and art of Merritt Dana Houghton is Monday, June 26, at 6:00 pm, at the Grand Encampment Museum.
May 30, 2023 |
Photo – North Platte River Graph – Courtesy National Weather Service
Carbon County’s Office of Emergency Management, headed by Lenny Layman, held its bi-weekly online flood update meeting Friday afternoon.
The National Weather Service forecast was a major component of the meeting. Meteorologist Lauren Kubelka said rain could elevate rivers, but Carbon County may experience only minor flooding despite the big snowpack when the spring melt began. Kubelka also said she did not expect any surprises from the Little Snake or North Platter Rivers this weekend.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-1.mp3However, Kubelka said to expect water to pool in low lying areas. The National Weather Service meteorologist reported on the condition of the county’s flood prone waterways.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-2.mp3Kubelka said forecasts show sporadic rain chances for heavier precipitation this week. Kubelka said the expected warmer weather combined with rain will increase snowmelt in the mountains.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-3.mp3Kubelka said thunderstorms are most likely to occur between 1:00 and 10:00pm each day. The meteorologist said the National Weather Service’s seven-day precipitation forecast calls for a small amount of rain.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-4.mp3Kubelka said the National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for Baggs, Dixon, and Savery until further notice. She said the Little Snake River is expected to reach minor flood stage of seven and a half feet above average this weekend. The meteorologist said the flood warning will continue until the river shows signs of returning to its normal state.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-5.mp3Kubelka shifted to the forecast for Saratoga and Sinclair. She said the North Platte River isn’t predicted to rise above seven and a half feet. The National Weather Service meteorologist said this week’s potential rainfall could change the flood forecast.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-6.mp3According to Kubelka, the Medicine Bow River is not expected to pose any threat to Elk Mountain or Hanna.
Following the National Weather Service presentation, Emergency Manager Layman asked each municipality on the call for their boots-on-the-ground reports.
The Baggs and Dixon emergency manager, Jared Wille, wasn’t present during the online meeting. Layman said Wille informed him that the Little Snake River was lower than earlier in the week. Layman said Baggs and Dixon did not require additional sandbags or outside assistance.
Mayor Irene Morgan of Elk Mountain said things were looking good in his community. The mayor said the Medicine Bow River was at its highest point but would lower substantially once upstream ranchers begin irrigating their fields. Layman asked if the ranchers would open their ditches sooner if it would prevent flooding in the town. Mayor Irene said the town has made that request in the past, but the ranchers have refused to do so, saying the possibility of damaging their irrigation equipment was too high. The mayor said he wasn’t worried, though.
Sergeant Tyler Christen is the emergency manager for Saratoga. Sgt. Christen said the National Weather Service’s forecast for the North Platte River is accurate. He said Saratoga has filled sandbags for anyone in need.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-7.mp3County residents should call the Saratoga Town Hall at 326-8335 to request sandbags.
The Hobo Hot Pools have been closed since last Friday and the gate will remain locked until the river water recedes. Sgt. Christen explained why the hot pools were closed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-8-1.mp3Sgt. Christen said communities along the river are adequately prepared for potential flooding. He said barriers installed during the floods of 2011 are still in place and additional sandbags are being used to shore up weak spots in the town’s defenses. Sgt. Christen advised residents living near the North Platte River to keep an eye on their crawl spaces and ensure their sump pumps are in working order. Saratoga’s emergency manager also advised boaters to be careful on the river during the holiday weekend.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-9.mp3Emergency Manager Laymen said the Office of Emergency Management provides support and coordination to the towns. Layman said the county’s towns are doing a great job of keeping him up-to-date on what’s going on with the river and if additional assistance is required.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-10.mp3Layman said people living in flood danger zones should have an evacuation plan already prepared. The emergency manager suggested residents place two physical markers by the water: one close to the shore and one farther back. Layman said if the water reaches the marker near the river people should pack their vehicles. If flood waters reach the higher mark, Layman said people should enact their evacuation plan immediately.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Flood-Outlook-11.mp3According to the National Weather Service, Carbon County appears safe from serious flooding at the moment. This week’s predicted rain may change the forecast. Residents are advised to watch the rivers and take action at the appropriate time.
May 30, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Swimming Pool – Bigfoot99 file photo
Tempers flared during lifeguard hiring discussions in Saratoga at Friday’s special town council meeting.
The meeting was called to address staffing shortages at the pool. Mayor Chuck Davis said the meeting would only deal with matters related to the pool and the hiring of lifeguards. Councilwoman Kathy Beck presented the proposed candidates and their salaries.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Saratoga-Pool-1.mp3Councilwoman Beck also said the town should rehire two aquatic fitness instructors. The councilwoman said the instructors have a contract saying they are to be paid $15 per class they teach and an additional $2 per attendee. Councilman Jerry Fluty asked how much people pay to attend the fitness classes. Councilwoman Beck said participants pay $5 a class unless multiple sessions are purchased at once.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Saratoga-Pool-2.mp3The council voted unanimously to hire the lifeguards and additional staff for the pool.
During the May 16th meeting, Councilwoman Kathy Beck motioned to have the town hire additional lifeguards and provide returning staff with raises. The councilwoman’s motion died for lack of a second. In a social media post and a letter to the local newspaper, councilwoman Beck said the pool could not open without adequate lifeguard coverage.
After the voting was finished at Friday’s meeting, Councilman Mike Cooley asked to make a statement. Addressing Councilwoman Beck’s post, Councilman Cooley said the pool was never in danger of not opening.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Saratoga-Pool-3.mp3Councilman Cooley accused Beck of creating a problem where none existed. Councilwoman Beck said the council’s inaction during the last meeting genuinely put the opening of the pool in question.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Saratoga-Pool-4.mp3Councilwoman Beck said the pool can’t open without adequate staff. Cooley said the councilwoman couldn’t have known for certain the pool would be understaffed after the last council meeting. Cooley said he strongly disapproved of Councilwoman Beck’s decision to involve social media and the local newspaper in town council matters.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Saratoga-Pool-5.mp3Councilman Jerry Fluty said the council rejected Beck’s motion because it combined the hiring of pool staff with increased wages. Councilman Fluty said the town is facing a serious budget deficit and may not be able to sustain the raises heading into the upcoming fiscal year. The councilman said the motion would have been successful if it had only addressed hiring lifeguards.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Saratoga-Pool-6.mp3Councilman Jerry Fluty said the town needs to make cuts across the board and no other departments would be receiving wage increases. He said Councilwoman Beck appeared unwilling to compromise on her demand for lifeguard raises. Councilwoman Beck said the rest of the council could have easily presented an amendment to eliminate the raises from the motion.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Saratoga-Pool-7.mp3Councilman Jerry Fluty said the town couldn’t promise any wage increases until after the budget was finalized. Councilwoman Beck said she understood, but her responsibility was to ensure the town’s recreation department is properly staffed.
Councilman Jacob Fluty asked Councilwoman Beck why she didn’t amend her own motion after it failed to garner a second. The councilwoman said she was too stunned to act. She said her fellow council members could have offered a revised motion of their own.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pool-08.mp3The meeting became tense as Councilman Cooley accused Beck of being unreasonable. Councilman Jerry Fluty said the councilwoman was badmouthing them to other town personnel. Accusations and insults were made. Mayor Davis quickly brought the meeting to order.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Saratoga-Pool-9.mp3Mayor Davis said the entire town council supports the recreation department. The mayor said he personally asked the town’s previous rec director, Sarah Laughlin, to reduce the price of pool usage. Mayor Davis said the pool loses money every year and the town needs to ensure the budget can support it.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Saratoga-Pool-10.mp3Mayor Davis said the pool brought in $20,119.70 last year and cost the town $40,616.51 to run.
Councilman Cooley said he wasn’t opposed to giving the lifeguards raises. He said the town needs to establish a balanced budget before talking about salary increases.
Councilwoman Beck said the rec department is primarily funded through grants. She suggested the town hire a recreation director adept at procuring grant money. The councilwoman said her social media post did not suggest taking money from other departments to fund the rec department. She said her letter was a call to action for Saratoga residents and not an attack on the town council.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0530_Saratoga-Pool-11.mp3Mayor Davis said he did not agree with Councilwoman Beck’s use of the media to voice her concerns. The mayor said previous town council members used similar tactics and no good came from it. Mayor Davis said town issues need to be discussed and resolved during town council meetings.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Pool-12.mp3With that said, Mayor Davis adjourned the meeting. The town’s pool will be staffed and ready to open as soon as the river waters recede.
May 30, 2023 |
Photo – NPVMC – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Saratoga, the North Platte Valley Medical Center will fully open today, according to officials. All departments, including the emergency room department, will open at 8 a.m.
The residents of the Saratoga Care Center will be moved into the new facility beginning at 8:30 a.m.
May 26, 2023 |
Photo – Ft Steele Bridge on the North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo
The North Platte River is running high as we enter the Memorial Day Weekend. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department advises recreationists that with spring runoff flowing high and fast, caution should be used while recreating near rivers, creeks, and streams.
The state wildlife agency notes that banks are flooding in the Saratoga area.
Many public access areas managed by Game and Fish are experiencing impacts from high water levels headed into the weekend. Outdoor enthusiasts should exercise caution and awareness.
The Foote Public Access Area is experiencing extensive flooding. Campsites there are underwater and will be inaccessible until the waters recede. Public Information Specialist Caroline Rosinski with Game and Fish said the Foote Public Access Area, north of Saratoga, is completely under water.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Memorial-Day-1.mp3Game and Fish issued a warning about the Pick Bridge Public Access Area as well. Rosinski said the location was experiencing mild flooding close to the river.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Memorial-Day-2.mp3The Pick Bridge PAA is experiencing mild impacts that will continue and possibly worsen throughout the weekend. Recreationists should assume that low-lying areas alongside the North Platte River in the Saratoga area may flood as the river reaches peak spring runoff this weekend.
Recreationists should consider camping locations away from the river. In fact, you may be required to camp on higher ground.
In addition to impacts on state-managed public access areas, the U.S. Forest Service has issued an emergency closure to overnight camping within 1,000 feet of the North Platte River because of debris flow and potential flash flooding. The federal forest lands affected in Wyoming extend from the Colorado state line where the North Platte River flows north into the Medicine Bow National Forest to where it flows out of the Forest boundary near the confluence with Savage Run Creek. This emergency closure is because of the potential for flash floods and debris flows in the area burned by the 2020 Mullen Fire. Rosinski said the Mullen burn scar is prone to dangerous flash floods.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Memorial-Day-3.mp3Rosinski said the Forest Service camping ban will remain in effect until an alert is issued saying it has been lifted.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is asking people to camp as far away from riverbanks as possible. Rosinski said the water level can rise overnight while campers are asleep.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Memorial-Day-4.mp3Rafters and other river runners should note that hazards on the North Plate this weekend will include:
- Debris carried by high water flows, including downed trees, could damage watercraft.
- Some river hazards may be submerged,
- Swift water can make landing boats at take-out points challenging and even difficult.
- Be prepared for both cold water and chilly air temperatures.
Forest visitors are advised that new hazards may exist in recently burned areas, such as the Mullen Fire. If you haven’t floated the river in a while, conditions have changed for the worse in some stretches.
Water flows have the potential to increase quickly, carrying burned debris, ash, and soil in the currents. Debris, log jams, trees, and strainers, may create new obstacles and/or rapids in the river.
Wyoming Game and Fish advises rafters to stay alert, anticipate your route, and be prepared. Wearing protective clothing and carrying extra layers can help protect against cold temperatures. Bringing along a first aid kit and matches in a dry bag is also good practice.
Be alert for changed conditions on routes you may have traveled in past years, stay safe and have fun.
May 26, 2023 |
Photo – WYDOT Rotary Plow – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Both scenic byways in Carbon County, Wyoming 130 and 70, are open for the summer driving season. The Snowy Range Road between the Platte Valley and the Laramie Valley opened Friday morning shortly before 8 a.m. WYO 70 over Battle Pass opened for the season during the noon hour yesterday.
Crews from Saratoga and Baggs started work on the 23-mile stretch of highway in early May, using multiple rotary plows, snowcats and other heavy equipment to clear large drifts of snow.
Tim Morton, WYDOT District 1 Maintenance Engineer, warns drivers to “be aware of melting snow along the roadway. The snow melt can refreeze at night creating isolated hazardous slick spots which may catch drivers off guard.”
WYDOT maintenance crews may be in the area in the coming weeks to make repairs to items like guardrails or signposts damaged by snow. Stay alert for workers in the area and be prepared to slow down.
The opening of the two scenic byways is commonly viewed as the unofficial start of summer in southern Wyoming.
May 26, 2023 |
Photo – Rochelle Ranch Golf Course Kitchen – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins city council has reached an agreement with a local entrepreneur to open the golf course restaurant.
The city has had trouble finding people to run a year-round restaurant in the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course. City documents say the course had a restaurant concessionaire last year who operated for one season with no interest in returning for a second. Rawlins Recreation Department Director Jason Sehon said he searched far and wide for someone to fill that role.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Rawlins-Golf-1.mp3Sehon said a restaurant at the golf course benefits not just golfers, but the entire community. The rec department director said he’s found the right person to take over the course’s dining operation. Sehon said local restauranteur Edgar Haymond has several ideas to keep the restaurant open through the winter, when attendance at Rochelle Ranch Golf Course is down.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Rawlins-Golf-2.mp3Sehon said he likes how motivated and eager Haymond is and feels he will be a good fit for the position. Haymond said he has over 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Rawlins-Golf-3.mp3Haymond said consistency will be the key to success. The restauranteur said he would begin slowly by selling drinks, then increase his restaurant’s offerings throughout the season.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Rawlins-Golf-4.mp3Sehon said he would like the city to sign an agreement with Haymond to allow him to run the restaurant. The contract would begin that day, May 24th, and continue to May 15th, 2024. Sehon said to help him succeed, the city will only charge Haymond $100 a month for the first four months. Sehon said the rent would increase to $700 after October 1st.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Rawlins-Golf-5.mp3Sehon said the city would revisit the contract after six months to adjust the rent price. He said if the restaurant was doing well, the city could raise the rent. If the restaurant was struggling, Sehon said the city could agree to lower the rent or keep it the same.
After the previous concessionaire left, Sehon said golf course staff purchased food and alcohol in preparation to run the restaurant themselves. He said the contract would require Haymond to buy the remaining food items, at cost. The contract also calls for a $500 security deposit to cover any future repairs.
Sehon said he would ensure the restaurant would not open until Haymond’s licenses and inspections were completed. The recreation director said the city has used a similar contract in the past.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Rawlins-Golf-6.mp3Vice Mayor Sanger asked Sehon about the earliest possible opening date for the restaurant. Sehon said Haymond was still waiting for permits and a final inspection. The rec director said the process typically doesn’t take long. Sehon said he expects Haymond’s restaurant to open next week, at the latest.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0526_Rawlins-Golf-7.mp3The council members voted unanimously to approve the contract with Haymond.
The Rochelle Ranch Golf Course is hosting a tournament this weekend. Sehon said staff would operate the dining facility for the event. Since the agreement requires Haymond to purchase any remaining food, Sehon said he would calculate the price of the concessions sold during the tournament and remove that amount from Haymond’s bill.
May 25, 2023 |
Photo – WYDOT Rotary Plow – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Wyoming 130, the Snowy Range Road, opened for the summer driving season shortly before 8 a.m. Thursday morning.
Drivers should be aware of changing driving conditions.
On Highway 70, through Battle Pass, WYDOT crews fought against 15-foot-tall snow drifts. WYDOT Maintenance Area Supervisor for Rawlins, Saratoga, and Baggs Marty Mayfield said he expects the pass to open this weekend despite the high drifts. Mayfield said the deep snow required plow crews to use a variety of equipment to clear the road.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Pass-Openings-1.mp3For the past two years, WYDOT has used specialized tracked vehicles called Snowcats to flatten high drifts before the plows arrived. Mayfield said the lighter Snowcats allowed WYDOT crews to work more quickly.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Pass-Openings-2.mp3Mayfield said construction crews have conducted detailed surveys of both the Battle Mountain and Snowy Range passes. The Maintenance Supervisor said the Snowcats use that data to accurately follow the highway and avoid damaging roadside markers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Pass-Openings-3.mp3Mayfield said WYDOT uses the Snowcats to lower the snowpack on the road to around four feet high. He said that is the ideal height for the rotary plows, also known as snow blowers. Once the rotary plows begin working, Mayfield said crews have a method for clearing the roads to minimize ice buildup.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Pass-Openings-4.mp3Even with the roads cleared of snow, Mayfield said the mountain pass can still be dangerous. Drifted snow can affect sight distances and ice can pool in certain areas. The Maintenance Supervisor said drivers need to be careful after the roadways open for the season.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Pass-Openings-5.mp3Mayfield said Highway 130 would be open soon, if it isn’t open today. The WYDOT Maintenance Area Supervisor said he is confident that Highway 70 will be open by this weekend.
May 25, 2023|
Photo – Governor Mark Gordon – Bigfoot99 file photo
The State of Wyoming is hoping to issue a digital token—virtual money—by the end of this year. That was the word yesterday from Governor Mark Gordon.
The Wyoming Legislature started the process of creating a virtual state currency with the passage of the Wyoming Stable Token Act. Governor Gordon is pursuing the project aggressively. His goal is for the state to issue a digital token, or “stable coin,” by the end of this year.
With the project on a fast track, the Stable Token Commission is seeking information from the public.
The commissioners are seeking public comment on how the process to develop the stable token should be established and how the token should be structured.
The Stable Token Commission will hold its next meeting at 1:30 pm on June 6 in the Wyoming State Capitol Extension. Additional information may be found on a dedicated web page: https://governor.wyo.gov/stable-token.
May 25, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga Councilwoman Kathy Beck has responded to the mayor about a letter she wrote to the local newspaper about her concerns regarding the town’s recreation department during a time of declining revenues.
Yesterday, Bigfoot99 reported on the public letter in which Councilwoman Beck posted on her social media page. Councilwoman Beck voiced her frustration over the council’s inaction to raise the starting wage for lifeguards. She also implored the community to inform the council that they valued recreation.
Summer is budget time for municipalities in Carbon County. Saratoga is no exception. Despite the previous town council voting for a dollar-an-hour pay raise for lifeguards, the current council has opted not to move forward with the salary increase. Mayor Chuck Davis said the delay was to allow the council to ensure the funds were available for the raises in the upcoming fiscal year. Councilwoman Beck said she understands the town needs to be careful where it spends the year’s budget. However, the councilwoman said without lifeguards the town can’t open the pool.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Beck-Letter-1.mp3Councilwoman Beck said her letter was not an attack on her fellow councilmembers. The councilwoman said her post was a call for residents to make their support of the town’s recreation department known.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Beck-Letter-2.mp3The town has had trouble attracting qualified lifeguards to work at the pool. Councilwoman Beck said the low wage doesn’t reflect the amount of training people need to become a certified lifeguard.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Beck-Letter-3.mp3Councilwoman Beck said people could work at other establishments in town for a higher wage and less responsibility. The councilwoman said the town should raise the lifeguard’s salary to, at least, match what it pays unskilled laborers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Beck-Letter-4.mp3Mayor Davis set aside four essential departments for full funding. The mayor said the police, fire, streets, and water and sewer departments are the core departments necessary to run the town.
Mayor Davis said all other departments would be funded with the leftover budget money. Councilwoman Beck said she supports the mayor’s essentials, but she feels the recreation department is part of what people love about living in Saratoga.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Beck-Letter-5.mp3The town council must finalize the budget before the start of the next fiscal year on July 1st. The council is hosting a series of budget meetings to ensure the deadline is met. Councilwoman Beck said now is the right opportunity to discuss additional recreation department funding.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Beck-Letter-6.mp3The town has announced a special meeting this Friday, May 26th, to hire more lifeguards for the pool. Councilwoman Beck said the town council needs to act quickly if they want the pool to open this summer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Beck-Letter-7.mp3Councilwoman Beck was adamant that her letter was not meant to demean or diminish her fellow councilmembers. The councilwoman said she feels strongly that the town can find the money in the budget to provide the recreation department with additional funding for the upcoming fiscal year. She said to attract more lifeguard applicants, and encourage current employees to return next season, the town needs to increase their base wage.
May 25, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Water Treatment Plant – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins city council has agreed to supply WYDOT with water.
During the May 16th city council meeting, a water agreement was made between the city and the Wyoming Department of Transportation. The agreement would allow WYDOT to take raw water from the North Platte River to use on road improvement and maintenance projects. Councilman Chris Weisenburg said he wanted residents to know the city was selling untreated water.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Rawlins-Water-1.mp3The appropriation allows the city to take 1,500,000 gallons of water from the North Platte River a day.
The agreement is effective until October 1st, 2024, and gives WYDOT the right to take 150,000 gallons a day from the river. According to city documents, the amount is 5% of the Union Pacific Railroad water rights that the city has owned since 1868. Councilman Weisenburg asked if the price of water has been adjusted for inflation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Rawlins-Water-2.mp3Rawlins City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade said the rate is the same as what is paid for water use outside of city limits. The agreement document shows the price to be $5 per thousand gallons.
Attorney Wade explained that state law enables municipalities to sell water, that is typically restricted from sale, to government entities such as WYDOT.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0525_Rawlins-Water-3.mp3The Rawlins city council voted unanimously to approve the water sale. The newly signed agreement allows the city to restrict the delivery of raw water to WYDOT in the event of an emergency or water shortage, but only to the same extent as it restricts water delivery to city residents.
May 24, 2023 |
Photo – North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Carbon County Office of Emergency Management held its bi-weekly flooding up-date call with local communities last night.
The online meeting began with National Weather Service Warning Coordination Manager Jared Allen updating attendees on this week’s weather, including pending conditions. Allen said scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected throughout the week. The rain will contribute to increase snow melt in both the North Platte and Little Snake River Valleys.
Saratoga continues to be in flood action stage. According to the National Weather Service, action stage on the North Platte River begins when the water reaches five and a half feet above normal. Saratoga’s emergency manager, Sgt. Tyler Christen said the river was sitting at 7.8 feet on Tuesday. Allen said Sinclair is now in action stage as well. In Saratoga, the North Platte is expected to reach minor flood stage of eight and a half feet, but Allen didn’t know when. He said the changing forecasts keep pushing the high-water date farther back. The North Platte was expected to reach minor flood stage last week.
Allen said the Little Snake River is expected to fluctuate between action stage and minor flooding. The National Weather Service considers the Little Snake River to be in the minor flooding stage when waters reach nine and a half feet above normal. Allen said the river is holding steady between nine and nine and a half feet, but he expects it to reach the minor flooding stage by next week.
The National Weather Service Warning Coordination Manager said the Upper North Platte River and Little Snake River basins are still showing slightly above average snowpack for this time of year. The snow has been releasing in waves, slowly and then quickly. Allen said the alternating melting speeds have helped keep the rivers from overflowing.
Allen said the North Platte and Little Snake Rivers typically reach their highest point by the second week of June. He said the forecasting data indicates that is still the expected outcome.
Baggs and Saratoga are the two towns most likely to experience flooding and any associated damage.
During the call, Baggs Emergency Manager Jared Wille said the Little Snake River was lower than it had been over the weekend. Wille said he has plenty of sandbags. The Baggs emergency manager said he will continue to monitor the river, but he had no concerns.
Sgt. Christen said the North Platte River is keeping track with National Weather Service predictions. He said Saratoga has plenty of sandbags available for residents of the town and county. Sgt. Christen said low lying fields upstream will collect some of the flood water before it reaches town. Otherwise, he said he had no concerns.
Elk Mountain Mayor Morgan Irene said his town is not experiencing any flooding.
Because of the increasing flood risk, Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman has included a representative from Black Hills Energy on the bi-weekly calls. Chris Mullen is the Gas Operations Supervisor in Rawlins. Mullen said he would quickly shut off the gas to flood damaged structures so his crews could remain out of the way during rescue efforts.
Layman and the Office of Emergency Management will continue to host the coordination calls twice a week while flooding remains a possibility. All the town emergency managers said they were confident with their preparations. The next flooding coordinator call is scheduled for Friday, May 26th.
May 24, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Swimming Pool – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Saratoga, disagreements over next year’s budget for the town led a council member to voice her concerns publicly, and the mayor was not pleased.
On Monday evening, Saratoga Councilwoman Kathy Beck posted to her personal social media page a letter she had written to the editor of the local newspaper. In the letter, councilwoman Beck said she made a motion at the May 16th town council meeting to hire a new lifeguard for the pool and raise the salaries of the previously hired lifeguards. The motion died for lack of a second.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0524_Beck-Letter-1.mp3In her letter, Councilwoman Beck said the council’s decision not to support her motion puts the opening of the pool in jeopardy.
Councilwoman Beck’s letter comes after she lobbied unsuccessfully to have the town dedicate more of the general fund budget to the recreation department. She said the rec department was having trouble hiring and retaining lifeguards for the pool. Councilwoman Beck said a dollar an hour raise would entice more people to take the job.
The matter was discussed at the May 2nd town council meeting. Mayor Chuck Davis said governing body should wait until the new budget is set before addressing any pay increases.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0524_Beck-Letter-2.mp3During the May 16th council meeting, councilwoman Beck once again asked the town to approve an across-the-board raise for lifeguards. Councilman Jacob Fluty asked if the rec department had enough money remaining to pay for the raises. Councilwoman Beck said the rec department could afford the increased pay rate until the end of the fiscal year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0524_Beck-Letter-3.mp3Mayor Davis said the budget priorities are funding four key departments: police, fire, streets, and sewer and water. Councilwoman Beck said hiring a lifeguard and providing raises was included in the previous budget. Councilman Jerry Fluty said the town was expecting more revenue but is grappling with $1.6 million less than projected. He said the town needs to adjust budgets to account for the shortfall.
Councilwoman Beck said the pool will remain closed if the town can’t afford to hire and pay the staff.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0524_Beck-Letter-4.mp3In her letter editorializing the situation, councilwoman Beck said she understood that the mayor’s four essential departments take priority. She said, “But, we must also responsibly manage our general budget, including the funds set aside for recreation.”
Councilwoman Beck’s letter said she would like the town to show appreciation for the lifeguards by paying them a competitive wage. Her letter also states that she would like to add more activities and increase hours at the pool. The councilwoman said, “28% of households in Saratoga have children under 18 years of age.”
In her letter, Beck encouraged residents to contact the town council and attend meetings and budget workshops.
Councilwoman Beck’s letter was brought to the attention of Mayor Davis. The mayor said he did not think the letter was “a professional way to handle matters dealing with the town council.” Mayor Davis said the issue should have been taken care of in a town council meeting, not on social media or the local newspaper.
Bigfoot99 reached out to Councilwoman Kathy Beck for comment. As of the reporting of this story, she has not responded.
May 24, 2023 |
Photo – Bald Eagle – Bigfoot99 file photo
According to a recently published media report, wind power companies in the West are getting away with killing eagles under the Biden Administration’s more lenient rules.
In a report based on government documents and testimony, the Associated Press concludes that dozens of permits already approved or pending would result in the deaths of roughly 6,000 eagles over several decades. Most permits are for wind farms, and more than half of the deaths would be among golden eagles, according to the report.
The AP concludes that significant numbers of eagles continue to die while fewer criminal cases are pursued, underscoring how the White House is pushing its climate change agenda while ignoring real-world data.
The Biden push for green energy has been accompanied by a falloff in enforcement of eagle protection laws, according to government reports. A pending proposal from the Biden administration could accelerate the problem. The White House is suggesting that permits should be streamlined, even made automatic in some cases, as it allows wind-energy projects and power line networks to intrude upon eagle nesting areas.
In Wyoming alone, anticipated wind energy projects could kill as many as 1,000 golden eagles, according to the minutes of a March 28th meeting where a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Biologist addressed the issue.
Some wind power companies are taking actions to reduce eagle mortality at their sites. Duke Energy, for instance, cut eagle deaths at a facility in central Wyoming by 60%. The company deployed a computerized camera system that can shut down a turbine within a minute to keep the blades from striking any bird it detects.
May 8, 2023 |
Photo – City of Rawlins Pre-Treatment Facility – Courtesy City of Rawlins
The City of Rawlins is asking people to conserve water while the pre-treatment plant is brought online, and its operation refined.
As summer approaches, city employees are working hard to revive the city’s two-decade old water pre-treatment plant. Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller said the city is asking residents to avoid excessive water use while the system recovers following a successful test run of the plant.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Rawlins-Water-1.mp3Miller said at this time, the pre-treatment plant will mainly be used to remove suspended dirt and clay particles from the spring water.
Miller said to avoid unnecessary water usage while the city determines how effectively the pre-treatment plant will supplement the water supply. The public information officer said residents can find updated water conservation policies on the city of Rawlins website or by contacting her personally.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Rawlins-Water-2.mp3City officials say the pre-treatment plant for North Platte water was built in the year 2000 to address concerns about the taste and smell of the city’s spring water. Finding the proper mix of chemicals needed to correct the issue proved difficult. The city stopped using the plant after only a few weeks of testing.
The pre-treatment plant sat abandoned, unused, for 23-years. After last summer’s disastrous water system failure, city officials made bringing the pre-treatment plant back online a priority. The plan is to use water from the North Platte River to supplement the Sage Creek springs during times of excessive drought. Miller said the city will have a better idea of how effective the plant will be soon.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Rawlins-Water-3.mp3The city council has promised to hold a town hall style meeting to notify residents about future water restrictions. Miller said the meeting will happen in about a month, after the city has gathered more information.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Rawlins-Water-4.mp3Miller thanked residents for their patience and understanding while the city addresses its water infrastructure. The public information officer suggested people check their preferred news source for the latest updates on the water system.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Rawlins-Water-5.mp3Miller said the city is not asking residents to ration water in their homes. The restriction applies only to large scale water operations, such as irrigation.
Go to www.rawlinswy.gov/water or call Miller directly at 307-328-4500, extension 1022, for up-to-date water restrictions.
May 8, 2023 |
Photo – North Platte Valley Medical Center – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Gov. Mark Gordon, Sen. John Barrasso and other dignitaries will be on hand Friday to help celebrate the grand opening of the North Platte Valley Medical Center (NPVMC) in a ribbon cutting ceremony. The official grand opening ceremony will take place this Friday at 4:00 p.m. at the hospital, followed by a Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce Social and community celebration at the Platte Valley Community Center.
May 8, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Fire Fighters – Bigfoot99 file photo
Flags across Wyoming were at half-staff yesterday to honor fallen firefighters. Governor Mark Gordon ordered both the U.S. and State of Wyoming flags be flown at half-staff statewide Sunday, May 7 in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service, and to pay our respects to brave firefighters and first responders who risk their lives to protect Americans.
May 8, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Treasurer Lindsey West – Bigfoot99 file photo
The deadline for Carbon County homeowners to receive property tax refunds is nearing.
Carbon County Treasurer Lindsey West is trying to spread the word about available property tax refunds. West said applications to the state-funded tax relief program must be received by June 5th. The county treasurer said residents must meet certain criteria to be eligible for the tax refund.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Property-Tax-1.mp3As well as residential restrictions, West said the program has an income cutoff. The County Treasurer said households in Carbon County must make below a certain threshold to qualify for the tax refund.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Property-Tax-2.mp3The property tax refund program also has a $150,000 limit on the total value of assets a person may own. West explained some of the things that are considered assets and the exceptions the state allows.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Property-Tax-3.mp3West said residents are limited on how large of a refund they can receive. The county treasurer explained that the total refund a resident is entitled to is based on their income and the average tax burden of the county.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Property-Tax-4.mp3The program ends on June 5th. West said Carbon County residents have several ways of applying for their property tax refund.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Property-Tax-5.mp3West said residents may return their completed applications to her office. The county treasurer said people can file their documents in other ways as well.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Property-Tax-6.mp3West said everyone in the county who meets the eligibility requirements has the potential to receive a refund. She said the state won’t reject incomplete or improperly written applications outright. West said the state will help people complete the forms correctly.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Property-Tax-7.mp3West said she thinks many Carbon County residents may be unaware of the program’s existence. With the June 5th deadline so close, West urged qualified applicants to register for the property tax rebate as soon as possible. West provided examples of the average refund residents received in the past.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0508_Property-Tax-8.mp3West said the program wasn’t funded in 2020 because of COVID.
The 2022 Wyoming property tax refund program ends on June 5th. Residents can call the Carbon County Treasurer’s office at 307-328-2631 for more information. Or go to the Wyoming Property Tax Refund System website at wptrs.wyo.gov to apply online.
May 8, 2023 |
Photo – W Frank Eathorne – Courtesy wyoming.gop website
Wyoming Republican Party Chairman Frank Eathorne easily fended off a challenge Saturday to secure reelection to a third term as the state GOP’s leader.
At a meeting in Jackson where members of the Wyoming Republican Party gathered Saturday, Eathorne easily beat out Converse County rancher and former state lawmaker Frank Moore. The vote was 49-25.
According to published media reports, about 50 party faithful attended the meeting. Some current state lawmakers attended the meeting. Several of the state’s top elected officials were there, as well, including State Auditor Kristi Racine, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder, Secretary of State Chuck Gray and State Treasurer Curt Meier.
Eathorne told the attendees at the Virginian Lodge ballroom in Jackson that he is a proven grassroots candidate. This is his third term as leader of the Wyoming Republican party. Vice Chairman David Holland also won re-election.
In a statement following his election to a third term as chairman, Eathorne said he would “work hard” to win over the 25 central committee people, elected at the county level, who didn’t vote for him.
May 5, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Lake – Bigfoot99 file photo
Biologists with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department began rebuilding the fishery at Saratoga Lake this week. Fish in the recreational waterway were killed off last fall to remove yellow perch that had been introduced into the popular fishing spot illegally. On Wednesday, trout were stocked back into the lake for the first time since the kill-off that took place at the end of September last year. Game and Fish biologists said the lake was stocked with tiger and rainbow trout that came from the Game and Fish Wigwam Rearing Station in Ten Sleep.
The state wildlife agency discovered yellow perch in Saratoga Lake two years ago. Wildlife officials say the presence of the perch was the result of illegal stocking. The lake is managed as a trout fishery. A high abundance of stunted yellow perch can result in slower growth rates for managed sportfish like trout because of increased competition for food. Fisheries biologists also were concerned about yellow perch escaping into the upper reaches of the North Platte drainage, where they could do damage to other sport fisheries and native fish species in areas like the Miracle Mile.
To eliminate the threat the perch posed, Game and Fish cut off water flow to the lake in summer 2022 and completed a rotenone project to kill all fish in the lake in September. This project was successful, allowing the Saratoga Lake fishery to now be rebuilt.
The restocking effort took place this week.
“We expect the fish we stock in May will grow quickly and provide catchable fish to anglers at Saratoga Lake this summer,” said Laramie Region Fisheries Supervisor Bobby Compton.
After being cutoff from water inflows last summer, Saratoga has quickly refilled from the heavy snows this winter.
May 5, 2023 |
Photo – Hanna Library – Bigfoot99 file photo
Debate continues among Carbon County Commissioners about what to do with the Hanna library.
At the February 28th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, County Attorney Ashley Davis said she received an MOU from the Hanna Town Hall asking to revise their county library agreement. In its current form, the county owns the building the library is in, but Hanna pays for the utilities. Seeing a substantial rise in the natural gas bill, Hanna asked to amend the contract to have the county take over payments.
At Tuesday’s commissioners meeting, the county’s Building and Grounds Manager Mike Newbrough presented a resolution to set a hard limit to the cost of utilities for the Hanna library.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Hanna-Library-1.mp3County Attorney Davis corrected Newbrough. She said the contract lists the maximum cost of gas at $1,500 a year, not a month. Davis said the contract is for the upcoming fiscal year. Davis said signing the resolution would be hasty since the county has yet to finalize next year’s budget.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Hanna-Library-2.mp3During the March 21st BOCC meeting, Hanna Mayor Jon Ostling said he would move the library into the town’s recreation center. Attorney Davis said the plan had changed. The library will remain where it is, and Hanna will be responsible for paying up to $1,500 a year to heat the building. Davis said making an agreement would be ill-advised before the county’s library budget has been settled.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Hanna-Library-3.mp3Attorney Davis proposed amending the contract. She said a way for the county to stop paying for utilities needs to be added to the contract in case financial circumstances necessitates the Hanna library closing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Hanna-Library-4.mp3The commissioners said they approved of Attorney Davis’s alteration to the contract. The topic will be revisited once Hanna agrees to the changes.
May 5, 2023 |
Photo – 4H Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
Carbon County 4-H has announced their 2023 scholarship winners.
Every year, Carbon County 4-H provides members with scholarship money to further their education. Youth Development Leader Emily Haver announced this year’s winners.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_4H-Awards-1.mp3Haver said the Carbon County 4-H Foundation Board selects the winners. She said the board meets every May to review applications from previous and current 4-H members and choose who receives a scholarship. Haver explained what the judges look for.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_4H-Awards-2.mp3Haver said the quality of the application determines the total scholarship awarded, which can be any amount up to $1,000. She said the 4-H Foundation Board members have their own individual methods of deciding the amount of money each student will receive.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_4H-Awards-3.mp3Every student received the maximum $1,000 scholarship this year. Haver said the money must be used to continue the student’s education.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_4H-Awards-4.mp3Haver said high school and secondary student scholarships aren’t the only financial benefits 4-H members receive. She said the organization offers funding for trips, camps, and other events to current members.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_4H-Awards-5.mp3Haver said two Carbon County 4-H members are representing Wyoming in the National Shoot. Held in Nebraska, the annual event showcases the archery and firearm shooting skills of our country’s youth. Haver said the two members attending the shooting competition did not require financial assistance from 4-H.
May 5, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming Senator John Barrasso – Bigfoot99 file photo
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso joined West Virginia Senator Shelly Moore Capito in introducing separate bills Thursday, intended to break down White House barriers to domestic energy production.
Barrasso’s SPUR Act is designed to reform the painful permitting process for domestic energy and mineral resources on federal lands by streamlining complicated procedures. The legislation also would force the Interior Department to resume quarterly onshore oil and gas lease sales, and lift the Obama-era leasing moratorium on thermal coal.
Also known as “steam coal”, thermal coal is used in electric power production after it is ground into a fine powder so that burns quickly at high heat. Thermal coal is used in power plants to heat water in boilers that run steam turbines.
Senator Barrasso’s bill also would allow uranium to be designated a critical mineral.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Sen-Barrasso-1.mp3Capito’s bill includes provisions to streamline convoluted review processes with enforceable timelines designed to prevent trivial legal challenges.
The Republican Senator from West Virginia is a ranking member of the Environmental Public Works Committee. Capito’s bill would modify the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act and Endangered Species Act to prevent “projects from being unreasonably blocked”. It also bars federal bureaucrats from including the social cost of greenhouse gases in its analysis “if the use of the metrics increases the cost of energy or causes agency delays.”
Both bills are designed to accelerate the approval process for major energy infrastructure projects at a time when the United States is falling behind both China and Russia in bringing large viable projects online.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Sen-Barrasso-2.mp3Yesterday’s introduction of the two bills designed to open up domestic energy production, follow a bill Barrasso introduced on Wednesday that would require the Bureau of Land Management to withdraw a bill introduced by former eco-warrior, now BLM Director Tracy Stone Manning, that places conservation on equal footing with energy development, recreation and other uses of bureau lands.
May 5, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Swimming Pool – Bigfoot99 file photo
Just in time for summer, The Saratoga Town Council reveals new pool rates for the upcoming season.
With summer around the corner, the Saratoga Recreation Department is gearing up for the start of the swimming season.
At Tuesday’s town council meeting, Councilwoman Kathy Beck said residents complained about the price to swim in the town’s outdoor pool last year. Councilwoman Beck said the recreation department has issued a new set of rates just for townspeople.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Saratoga-Pool-1.mp3Councilwoman Beck began reading the new prices. The councilwoman started with the cost of individual single-day pool access.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Saratoga-Pool-2.mp3The recreation department offers group discounts. Councilwoman Beck read the pricing list for large parties.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Saratoga-Pool-3.mp3Swimmers may purchase a monthly pool pass or a punch card, which is good for 12 visits to the pool. Councilwoman Beck read the monthly and punch card rates.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Saratoga-Pool-4.mp3Season passes for youth, ages 5 to 17, are $60. Adults 18 and older pay $125. Season passes for seniors, 65 and older, cost $75. Guests may purchase a family pass as well. Pricing is the same as an adult season pass, but with $50 added per child.
People can rent the pool for after-hours private parties for $100 an hour. Parties must consist of 80 people or less.
The Saratoga pool also offers water-based fitness classes. Councilwoman Beck read the prices for the work-out sessions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Saratoga-Pool-5.mp3Saratoga residents receive special discounts. Councilwoman Beck read the savings townspeople will receive. The councilwoman said the new pool rates will be displayed at the town hall.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Saratoga-Pool-6.mp3The council unanimously voted to approve the new pool rates.
With the prices set, the question remains of when the pool will actually open. Councilwoman Beck said she has been discussing the opening date with Streets Department Supervisor John Lasco. She said the pool cannot open until the potential for flooding has passed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0505_Saratoga-Pool-7.mp3Councilwoman Beck said the town needs to hire more lifeguards for the pool. Anyone interested in becoming a lifeguard should contact the Saratoga Town Hall.
May 4, 2023 |
Photo – Water from tap – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga has been voted “Best Tasting Water” in Wyoming for 2023.
During the annual conference of Wyoming’s licensed water and wastewater operators in Casper, the town of Saratoga was chosen as having the best tasting water in the state. Saratoga Water and Sewer Supervisor Chuck McVey said the Wyoming Association of Rural Water Systems conference was well attended. However, McVey said he wasn’t sure how many towns competed for the title.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Water-Winner-1.mp3Saratoga receives its drinking water from five wells east of town. McVey said he doesn’t do anything special to the ground water. The water supervisor said he simply adds a little chlorine into the system to fight bacterial growth. McVey said the town’s water met the subjective criteria of the five judges. He explained what the judges looked for.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Water-Winner-2.mp3The next step is for McVey to represent the town in the National Great American Water Taste Test in Washington DC next February.
This won’t be the first time Saratoga has represented Wyoming on the national stage. In 2018 the town was also awarded the best tasting water in the state. McVey attended the competition in DC, but he said he doesn’t remember what place the town came in. Only that Saratoga was in the top ten.
McVey said he isn’t a one man show. His fellow water and sewer operators deserve just as much credit.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Water-Winner-3.mp3McVey said he will take Water and Sewer Operator Brandon Mistelske with him to Washington, D.C. in February. As of the reporting of this story, the National Rural Water Association has not said what day the competition will be held.
May 4, 2023 |
Photo – Lone Tree Creek – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins city council was updated about the state of the municipal water system.
During a special work session held before Tuesday’s city council meeting, City Engineer Austin Gilbert and WWC Engineering’s Laramie Branch Manager Murray Schroeder talked about the progress being made on the city’s water infrastructure. Gilbert began the presentation by telling the council they need more than just grants to fix the water problem.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Rawlins-Water-1.mp3Rawlins receives most of its water from 14 underground aquafers south of the city. Schroeder said when the system was built 100 years ago, over 30,000 feet of wood stave pipe was laid. Using a $2.15 million ARPA grant, the city has replaced around 10,000 feet of the wooden lines with modern pipework. To finish replacing the remaining 20,000 feet of wood pipe would cost another $4 million.
The city recently received another ARPA grant, in the amount of $917,000, to rehabilitate the infrastructure at the springs. With a projected cost of over $1.8 million, the city is still on the hook for 50% of the project. The city’s other water supply source, the Beaver Creek springs, requires over $2 million to make it fully functional again.
Gilbert said of the seven collection sites in the Sage Creek basin, only two provide the bulk of the town’s water.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Rawlins-Water-2.mp3Gilbert laid some of the blame for the system’s collapse at the feet of his predecessors. The city engineer said shortcuts were taken in an ill-advised attempt to save money.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Rawlins-Water-3.mp3The price to repair the wells in the Sage Creek basin may be more than the city is willing to pay.
Gilbert suggested an alternative plan. One hundred years ago, city engineer James Wisda, recommended drilling in the Sage Creek basin. Wisda promoted the idea so much that he became known as Sage Creek Jimmy. Wells were drilled, but Wisda’s theory of an underground river was not pursued. Gilbert told the council that an underground river may exist and that the city could explore the idea to augment the municipal water supply.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Rawlins-Water-4.mp3The City of Rawlins Water Supply Master Plan, or level one study, is scheduled for some time during the upcoming fiscal year.
Mayor Terry Weickum said the city needs to ensure the repairs last. Once the water system is fully operational, Mayor Weickum said the city will have to set aside money to maintain it.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Rawlins-Water-5.mp3Gilbert and Schroeder’s slide presentation shows the entire project is expected to cost $25.1 million.
May 4, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
During Tuesday’s citizen comment period, a Rawlins citizen connected to one of the trash hauler companies in the city accused council members of improper behavior.
Upon opening the public comment period Tuesday night, Mayor Terry Weickum reminded the public that city statutes limit the time a person can speak to five minutes.
Dirty Boyz Sanitation General Manager of Operations Patrick Gonzales chose to speak. Gonzales said he had a few grievances. He started by saying he didn’t think the City Council was using the most up-to-date version of Robert’s Rules of Order.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-1.mp3Robert’s Rules of Order are a set of guidelines for conducting meetings and making decisions in a fair and efficient manner. Gonzales said the latest edition of the guidebook provides 10 minutes for public comment.
Gonzales said the city owes Councilwoman Tonya Lewman an official apology. He said, in his opinion, Councilwoman Lewman was denied her rightful seat on the council.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-2.mp3Councilwoman Lewman was elected to represent Ward 2 in the 2022 general election. After her victory, it was discovered that Lewman had accepted an illegal campaign contribution from a business that was involved in a lawsuit with the city. Councilwoman Lewman did not take the oath of office during the first council meeting of January 2023. Councilwoman Lewman claimed she was unaware of the impropriety of the donation and said she promptly returned the money when she learned it was unlawful.
She was sworn in at the following council meeting on January 17th. Mayor Weickum was absent from that meeting. Neither the Mayor nor the City Attorney have addressed the confusion surrounding how the Lewman situation was handled at subsequent council meetings.
Vice Mayor Steve Sanger, acting as Mayor Pro-tem for an absent Weickum, allowed Lewman to be sworn into office at the following meeting. No reasons were given at the council meeting for the change of direction.
Gonzales said Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray and the Rawlins City Attorney both determined that no wrongdoing had occurred. He blamed Mayor Weickum for denying Councilwoman Lewman her place on the board.
The company from which Lewman had accepted the unlawful campaign donation was Dirty Boyz Sanitation. Gonzales has a personal connection to the trash hauling company that contracts with the city. At the time of her election, Dirty Boyz was involved in a legal dispute with the City over the issue of flow control. Rawlins city code requires that all licensed trash haulers must take collected refuse to the city’s transfer station and pay a tipping fee. Dirty Boyz was taking their garbage out of state after first taking collected trash to its own transfer station just outside city limits.
Gonzales said the City Council owed his employer, Rose Cain, the owner of Dirty Boyz Sanitation, an apology. He said the council lied about Cain owing over $100,000 in unpaid tipping fees.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-3.mp3Gonzales said he was told that Dirty Boyz would only have their license reinstated if they paid the city $160,000 in missed tipping fees. He said city ordinances have a clear maximum fine.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-4.mp3Gonzales said council discussed the city’s recycling ordinance at its March 7th meeting. He said City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade admitted the ordinance was unclear.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-5.mp3Gonzales said he had a third, more serious issue. He passed out a document to the council members. Sources say the document was a nine-page Sheriff’s report about a threat Gonzales received. After giving the council members copies of the report, Gonzales addressed Councilman Chris Weisenburg.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-6.mp3Gonzales accused Councilman Weisenburg of unspecified social media comments directed at him. After making the statement, Gonzales’s five-minute public comment time limit ended. Councilman Darril Garner, who is the son of Rose Cain, motioned to give Gonzales a five-minute extension. Councilwoman Lewman, who had received the illegal campaign donation from Dirty Boyz that was later returned, seconded the motion.
Mayor Weickum asked for a vote to allow Gonzales. The motion passed with five yeas and one nay. Mayor Weickum was the sole dissenter.
Gonzales thanked the council before continuing to accuse Councilman Weisenburg of making online threats. Weisenburg attempted to interrupt Gonzales, but Councilman Garner reminded him that the council was not allowed to speak during the public comment portion of the meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-7.mp3Councilman Weisenburg said Gonzales was personally attacking him. Mayor Weickum agreed and attempted to stop Gonzales from continuing his accusations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-8.mp3Mayor Weickum allowed Gonzales to continue. Referring to the alleged online threats made by Councilman Weisenburg, Gonzales said he didn’t think the council member was upholding his duty to the residents of the city.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-9.mp3Gonzales said he harbored no personal animosity against the council members. He said he simply didn’t approve of how the council appeared to apply city ordinances unevenly.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-10.mp3Gonzales reiterated his demand for the City Council to officially apologize to Councilwoman Lewman and Rose Cain, the owner of Dirty Boyz Sanitation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Dirty-Boyz-11.mp3Gonzales finished and took his seat. Mayor Weickum thanked him and asked if anyone else wished to make a public comment. No one chose to speak. Mayor Weickum resumed the city council meeting with the next topic of the agenda.
May 5, 2023 |
Photo – Senator Barrasso – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Washington, D.C., Senator John Barrasso announced plans yesterday to introduce legislation that he said is designed to fix the broken permitting process for energy production. Barasso said project opponents on the left have become skilled at exploiting the nation’s permitting process to stop new projects.
Senator Barasso will introduce new legislation today, developed with West Virginia Senator Shelly Capito, designed “to lower prices for American families and restore our country to energy dominance.”
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Sen-Barrasso-1.mp3Barrasso said the current permitting system is broken at the federal level, with projects moving in slow motion or not at all. Barrasso said the bill he will introduce today in the Senate is designed to streamline the process while preserving environmental standards. Wyoming’s Senior Senator said the goal is to lower energy prices for American families.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0504_Sen-Barrasso-2.mp3Barrasso said the bill he will introduce today enjoys bipartisan support in the senate.
Earlier this week, Senator Barrasso castigated Interior Secretary Deb Haaland’s record on oil and gas leasing at a committee hearing Tuesday, accusing her of violating the law by not holding quarterly lease sales as required under federal law. During her time as Interior Secretary, Haaland has held only one lease sale in two years. The Department of the Interior has scheduled lease sales for the second and third quarters of this year.
May 3, 2023 |
Photo – Sand bagger – Courtesy Barrier Systems LLC
Saratoga town hall is offering free sandbags to residents in flood prone parts of town.
The county’s automatic sandbag filling machine has arrived in Saratoga after spending time in Elk Mountain and Baggs. Mayor Chuck Davis said the town has about 600 sandbags filled and ready to go. Mayor Davis said one resident has already asked the town for help.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0503_Sandbags-1.mp3Mayor Davis said the town hasn’t used the county’s sandbagging machine yet. He said crews are too busy repairing the streets. The 600 available sandbags came from the Wyoming State Penitentiary. County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman created a program to have inmates of the prison fill bags in preparation for potential flooding. Mayor Davis said students from the Encampment K through 12 school are helping supplement the town’s sandbag supply as well.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0503_Sandbags-2.mp3The town will have around 1,000 sandbags in reserve when the Encampment students finish. Mayor Davis said he is expecting another 600 bags from the state prison. When the sandbagging machine is fully operational, the mayor said it will be used to make up to 1,000 more bags.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0503_Sandbags-3.mp3With nearly 3,000 sandbags in reserve, the town should be prepared for any potential flooding. Mayor Davis said reports indicate that Baggs is the most likely location for a major flood event. However, the mayor said he is keeping an eye on the North Platte River.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0503_Sandbags-4.mp3As of Tuesday morning, the North Platte was measuring just under seven feet high. Streets Department Supervisor John Lasco said the river was at a normal level for this time of year. Mayor Davis said he has a plan, should the water level rise, but he is waiting until that happens before setting it in motion.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0503_Sandbags-5.mp3The town’s sandbags are free, with no limit on how many bags people may request. Mayor Davis said if an emergency happens, he will deploy pallets of sandbags in public spaces throughout the town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0503_Sandbags-6.mp3Mayor Davis said he is keeping a close eye on the North Platte River for signs of flooding. He said the first place likely to experience high water is the town’s hot pools.
In his April 18th address to the Board of Carbon County Commissioners, Emergency Manager Layman said Saratoga will act as a hub, distributing sandbags to other towns as needed.
A video of the sandbagging machine in action shows it is capable of filling 20 bags in about a minute and a half. Saratoga’s Streets Supervisor said they use, on average, between 60 and 80 bags to protect a property from flooding: meaning, the machine can produce enough sandbags for each resident every four and a half to six minutes.
May 3, 2023 |
Photo – Image of Lewis & Lewis Asphalt Paving – Courtesy Lewis & Lewis
Warmer weather has put the street contractor working Spring Avenue in Saratoga on the fast track.
Work is nearing completion, on the utility and street improvement project, after work resumed following the winter shutdown. Mayor Chuck Davis said he is pleased with the progress Lewis and Lewis, the contractor responsible for the project, has made since work resumed earlier this spring. Mayor Davis said the water main replacement was set to be completed by the end of yesterday. The mayor said paving would occur this weekend, weather permitting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0503_Spring-Ave-Project-1.mp3The Spring Ave project was far behind schedule heading into winter. Lewis and Lewis vowed to return as soon as possible after the town council voted to hold them accountable for not being finished before the end of October. Liquidated damages, in the amount of $1,750 a day, were assessed to the contractor for missing the agreed upon deadline. With a financial incentive to return to the job as soon as the weather would allow, Lewis and Lewis was back in town at the end of March.
During the April 18th town council meeting, Mayor Davis said he met with representatives from Lewis and Lewis. The mayor asked them about patching sections of the road while they were working in town. Water leaks and plow damage ruined large portions of the streets during the winter. The mayor said if the council agreed to Lewis and Lewis’s price, the town would prepare the areas for the contractor to pave.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0503_Spring-Ave-Project-2.mp3Lewis and Lewis’s specialized paving equipment can create smoother patches on the roads than the town’s streets department.
Mayor Davis said he was quoted $21,250 to have Lewis and Lewis pave the large patches. He said the price of blacktop was extremely high. As an example, the mayor said pavement accounted for a large percentage of the cost of the town’s Staff Sgt. Tyler Pickett Memorial Park.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0503_Spring-Ave-Project-3.mp3The council approved the motion to pay Lewis and Lewis to pave the four large patches. Prep work is already happening. Paving should begin this weekend. Mayor Davis said the contractor has not provided him with an updated completion date.
May 3, 2023 |
Photo – Elkhead Reservoir near Craig, CO – Courtesy uncovercolorado.com
Much like here in southern Wyoming, river waters are rising in northern Colorado.
The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for Elkhead Creek in Routt and Moffatt Counties.
The warning will remain in effect until 6 p.m. Friday, May 5, or until it is canceled. Flooding of low-lying and flood-prone locations is expected. The areas of concern in Moffat and Routt counties are along Elkhead Creek, mostly above Elkhead Reservoir to the confluence with the Yampa River.
Hydrologists with the Colorado Basin River Forecast Center are predicting the fourth-highest peak runoff of the Elk River in the 53 years of available U.S. Geological Survey stream gauge data. Overall for the Elk River, the forecast center predicts the end of May for the peak depending on weather conditions.
Two SNOTEL sites help predict Elk River runoff. The Elk River SNOTEL monitor located at 8,739 feet in elevation and situated northeast of Hahn’s Peak Lake currently shows a median of 188% of snow water equivalent compared to the 30-year average from 1991 to 2020.
The Lost Dog site at 9,327 feet located off Seedhouse Road on the north fork of the Elk River currently shows 154% of median.
Here in Carbon County, Wyoming, the North Platte River has been rising with this week’s warm temperatures. The Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Services show the North Platte at Saratoga hitting 7.1 feet sometime Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service, the river will crest just below Action Stage of 7.5 on both Thursday and Friday this week. Another chart shows the North Platte River reaching this year’s crest during the two-week period June 3 through June 17th.
As we reported, Saratoga Town officials are making sand bags available to residents concerned about possible flooding.
May 3, 2023 |
Photo – Charlie and The Chocolate Factory Poster – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga’s youth production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was a hit over the weekend, said the group’s drama club coach.
Last weekend, at the Platte Valley Community Center, Saratoga’s Drama Club performed their version of Roald Dahl’s literary classic, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Drama Club Coach Marie Christen said the play was a success.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Willy-Wonka-Recap-1.mp3Christen said around 55 children participated in the play. As a reward for their hard work, Christen said she will throw the children a party and take them to see the newest entry in the Willy Wonka film universe.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Willy-Wonka-Recap-2.mp3Unfortunately, the new Willy Wonka movie, simply titled Wonka, has been delayed from its original March 17th release date to December 15th of this year.
Mayor Chuck Davis expressed his support for the performance and suggested the drama club be folded into the town’s recreation department. Mayor Davis said not every kid is interested in sports and having an alternative option would benefit the children of Saratoga. He said he would put the task on the town’s new recreation director when one is found.
With this year’s play finished, Christen can briefly rest before she must begin working on next year’s performance. She said the children will choose what show they take on.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Willy-Wonka-Recap-3.mp3Christen said the children are leaning toward performing a play based on the Narnia books by C.S. Lewis.
May 2, 2023 |
Photo – COVE Poster for Volunteers – Courtesy COVE Facebook page
Carbon County COVE needs volunteers.
Carbon County’s Crisis Outreach and Victim Empowerment organization, or COVE, is run by one individual, Executive Director Jennifer Evans. Evans explained how her non-profit domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking program helps the people of Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_COVE-1.mp3At the Rawlins work session, held on April 19th, Evans presented her request for additional funding. The city council wanted to know if she had sought money from the Board of Carbon County Commissioners or other communities. Evans said because she can’t offer services outside of the city, she is hesitant to ask for funding from other towns. The executive director added that previous funding requests from the county commissioners have been denied. Evans said she would like to expand COVE’s influence into other municipalities in the future.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_COVE-2.mp3Evans is the sole employee of COVE. She said to provide services in other towns, she would need additional workers. The executive director said she has had trouble retaining employees in the past. Confidentiality is a must. And a rotating schedule of being available by phone has proven too much for others. Evans said her inability to offer a competitive salary is the biggest handicap.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_COVE-3.mp3Evans requested $20,000 from the Rawlins City Council for the upcoming fiscal year, an increase of $5,000 from last year. She said the additional funding is to cover the ballooning cost of helping the agency’s clients.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_COVE-4.mp3Evans said she spends, on average, $2,000 per person. The costliest service COVE provides, Evans said, are motel stays for people facing uncertain futures without resources of their own.
Evans said she fields five to ten phone calls a week. She said about half of the callers receive service from COVE. Because it is so close to the end of the fiscal year, Evans said she has had to turn down requests for financial assistance, such as money for rent or groceries. The COVE Executive Director said she still offers her services – just not money.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_COVE-5.mp3COVE operates the only safehouse in Carbon County. During the Rawlins council work session, Evans said victims steal a lot of items from the protective home during their stay. She said donations help restore the things people take, but she isn’t able to handle the volume of supplies by herself.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_COVE-6.mp3Evans said, ideally, she would have a team of four volunteers to assist her. She said having help would allow her to go into other towns and inform more people of what services COVE offers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_COVE-7.mp3COVE has a 24/7 phone line available for victims. Right now, Evans is the only person who responds to calls. She said volunteers would take turns answering the phone and help with victim support. Evans explained other tasks volunteers would be asked to perform.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_COVE-8.mp3To become a COVE volunteer, call Jennifer Evans at 324-7071 or send a message through the Carbon County COVE Facebook page. Evans also suggested people come to COVE’s office, located at 711 West Pine Street, in Rawlins, to apply.
May 2, 2023 |
Photo – The Divide Restaurant and Lounge in Encampment – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
The Divide Restaurant and Lounge, in Encampment, is set to open after a lengthy remodel.
Duke Altschuler purchased The Divide about two years ago. After several months of operation, Altschuler closed the restaurant and bar for an extensive remodel. The Divide was scheduled to reopen in the fall of 2022. Unexpected issues with equipment suppliers, shady contractors, and the realities of a 111-year-old building delayed the opening by seven months.
Heidi Sifford is the operations manager for the restaurant. Sifford explained the difficulties she encountered during the remodel.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Divide-Reopening-1.mp3According to real estate records, the building was built in 1902. Sifford said the structure had to be brought up to modern construction standards. The operations manager said untangling the outdated electrical system contributed to the delayed opening.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Divide-Reopening-2.mp3During the remodel, an entirely new kitchen was built. Sifford said the contractor originally handling the project, stole money from his employers, including Altshuler. She said a call to the construction company showed that essential equipment wasn’t on the way.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Divide-Reopening-3.mp3On top of the outdated wiring, Sifford said the foundation of the century old building required extensive repairs. Workers had to reinforce the foundation from within the building, which Sifford said made the project more difficult.
The interior of the bar remains largely the same. Besides a fresh coat of paint, Sifford said the décor hasn’t changed much. The operations manager said the restaurant portion of the building has lost many decorations that did not fit with the owner’s taste.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Divide-Reopening-4.mp3The wooden dining area on the building’s northeastern side has been torn down. Sifford said the foundation of the patio was damaged during the remodel. A new concrete pad replaces the old wooden deck. Sifford said the outdoor space will be fully enclosed and available for use year-round.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Divide-Reopening-5.mp3Head Chef Paul Ashton Chandler has been working at The Divide since 2017. During the remodel, Chandler has been creating an entirely new menu. The head chef said he will offer meals people can’t find in other restaurants.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Divide-Reopening-6.mp3From the sauces to the pizza toppings, Chandler said everything will be made in-house. The chef said he wants to offer the best ingredients possible, but knows he must work within a budget.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Divide-Reopening-7.mp3The Divide’s grand reopening is set for Mother’s Day weekend. Sifford said while final inspections have yet to be done, the restaurant’s opening date depends on the installation of a specialized fire suppression system in the kitchen.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Divide-Reopening-8.mp3Sifford and Chandler offered Bigfoot99’s reporter a tour of the building’s basement. Sifford said during prohibition, bootleggers dug a system of tunnels beneath the town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Divide-Reopening-9.mp3The tunnel entrance beneath The Divide is filled in and difficult to make out. Sifford said the entrance under the old E and H Building can still clearly be seen.
In its 111-year history, the building now housing The Divide, was used for many things. At one time, it was a mortuary. Bodies were lowered into the basement by a small door in the rear of the building and taken to an alcove where embalming took place.
Chandler said when the former owner of the building purchased it in 2017, old bottles of embalming chemicals were found in the basement. The mortuary entrance has since been filled in. However, the original wooden door remains as a testament to the structure’s former use.
If final inspections go well and Sifford can have the fire suppression system installed in time, The Divide will open May 13th.
May 2, 2023 |
Photo – Judge Marla McNees talks with show participant – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Young cat lovers from across Carbon County gathered in Rawlins for a 4-H sponsored fun cat show.
On Saturday afternoon, 4-H Youth Development Leader Emily Haver hosted a cat judging competition and education event for local kids at the Carbon County Fairgrounds. Haver said, with the help of Marla McNees, she has been experimenting with programs focused on teaching children about cat grooming and health.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Cat-Show-1.mp3McNees said she has done 4-H animal judging for 24 years. The Torrington resident was responsible for judging the seven felines at Saturday’s competition. She graded the cats on appearance and health. McNees also provided the young competitors with tips on the proper way to present their cats to a judge. McNees said she’s helped arrange a few children’s cat shows in the past.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Cat-Show-2.mp3When the judging was finished, the kids were ranked based on their cat handling skills. Every child received a cat toy or cat-related item as a prize.
Afterwards, Haver split the kids into groups where they answered questions about grooming, health, and overall cat care.
With spring, seemingly, here to stay, Haver said she has a lot of events planned.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0502_Cat-Show-3.mp3While Carbon County 4-H hosted the fun cat show, kids did not need to be members of the youth organization to participate.
May 1, 2023 |
Photo – County Road 351, North of Sinclair, WY – Bigfoot99 file photo
Carbon County’s busiest road will receive some much-needed safety improvements.
A Wyoming Department of Transportation grant will allow center-line repainting on County Road 351, otherwise known as Seminoe Road.
Over 60,000 outdoor enthusiasts travel the 30 miles from Sinclair to Seminoe State Park on the county road each year. Carbon County Road and Bridge Coordinator Kandis Fritz sought assistance from the state’s High Risk Rural Road Project to enhance the road’s pavement markings. County Road 351’s lanes will be given a fresh coat of paint using a $100,000 WYDOT grant. The county is responsible for a 10% match. The project is expected to begin sometime this year.
The High-Risk Rural Road Project was established in 2006. According to the WYDOT website, “the goal of the program is to reduce traffic fatalities and injuries on high-risk rural roads by correcting safety deficiencies on rural roads where major improvements do not appear to be cost effective due to low traffic volumes.” Examples of safety improvements are signage, rumble strips and, in the case of County Road 351, lane markings.
Being designated “high risk” doesn’t necessarily mean the road is especially deadly. In an email sent to Bigfoot99, Fritz said there haven’t been more fatalities on the road. The road and bridge coordinator said she picked County Road 351 because the centerline stripe has pretty much worn off and is no longer visible. With so many tourists, many from out of town, using the road, added safety measures will help keep people safe as they travel to and from the popular recreation spot.
Fritz said she will continue to seek out grants to pay for further improvements to the county road.
Fritz said all the roads in Carbon County could potentially qualify for the High-Risk Rural Road Project. However, she said she is focusing her efforts entirely on County Road 351.
May 1, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins City Council listened to funding requests from non-profit organizations. On Wednesday, April 19th, the council held a special work session. Thirteen of the county’s non-profit organizations asked the council for funding for the coming fiscal year.
The first presenter was Children’s Advocacy Project Executive Director Stacy Nelson. The Children’s Advocacy Project provides counseling and other services to victims of child abuse. Nelson said her organization is one of the few in the state able to provide the type of help the victims require.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-1.mp3Nelson said out of the 282 child abuse interviews her organization performed last year, 22 were in Rawlins. All were related to sexual abuse. She is asking for a continued investment of $5,500 for the next fiscal year.
Stepping Stones Youth Home Senior Director of Youth and Outreach Services John Tengsdal was next. Tengsdal explained the type of services his organization provides.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-2.mp3Tengsdal and the Volunteers of America took over the former Carbon County Youth Crisis Center in July of 2022. Since that time, Tengsdal said Stepping Stones Youth Home has helped 54 kids. He said they have a 95% successful discharge rate. Stepping Stones Youth Home is asking for the same $25,000 as last year.
Theresa Pacheco, the CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Carbon County, presented her funding request. Pacheco explained how the Boys and Girls Club helps local kids with schooling and provides supplemental meals.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-3.mp3Pacheco said the Boys and Girls Club of Carbon County has 180 members. She requested $10,000 from the Rawlins governing body, down from last year’s request of $15,000.
The Executive Director of the Carbon County Child Development Program Mindy Monson-Greene said that her organization is a preschool which offers Head Start Services to prepare very young children for school. Monson-Greene said needed funding will go toward student lunches.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-4.mp3Last year, Carbon County Child Development Programs requested $12,600 from the city. Monson-Greene said Wyoming’s Child Care Food Program is providing her organization with $48,000. So, for the upcoming fiscal year, Monson-Greene has requested only $9,000.
Up next was Carbon County Economic Development Corporation Board President Copper France. France explained the support Executive Director Yvonne Johnson offers to local entrepreneurs.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-5.mp3France said the success of the Economic Development Corporation isn’t always immediately noticeable. He said some businesses that use their services ask to remain anonymous. France petitioned the Rawlins City Council for a $5,000 increase in funding, bringing the total to $20,000.
Jennifer Evans, the Executive Director of Carbon County Community Organization for Victim’s Emergency, or COVE was next to present her funding request. Evans, who is the sole COVE employee, explained her organization.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-6.mp3Evans said COVE has helped 119 victims so far, with two months still left in the fiscal year. She said the majority of COVE’s finances are used to house victims and provide legal services. Evans asked the city council for $20,000 in funding, an increase of $5,000 over the previous year.
Carbon County Senior Services was next. Executive Director Kelly Morrell said her organization provided senior citizens with meals and a place to eat and mingle.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-7.mp3Morrell said Carbon County Senior Services served over 60,000 meals last year, with more than 26,000 served in Rawlins alone. She asked the city council to approve an increase of $10,000 over the last year to cover the rising cost of food, bringing the total funding request to $30,000. Several seniors were on hand to express their gratitude for the program.
High Country Behavioral Health was next. Mental Health Technician Sam Whinery explained what the organization offers the community.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-8.mp3Whinery said High Country Behavioral Health supports 265 clients in the Rawlins and Carbon County area. Whinery requested the same $10,000 the organization asked for the previous fiscal year.
Rawlins Airport Board Treasurer James R. Eggleston asked the city council for continued funding. Eggleston said the board is responsible for taking care of and upgrading the airport.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-9.mp3Eggleston asked council to approve the same $20,000 in funding for the Airport Board as the previous year.
Pet Partners of Carbon County President Margaret Quintrall presented next. Quintrall explained what her organization does.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-10.mp3T and R stands for trap and release. Quintrall said her organization will provide traps for people to catch feral cats and have them spayed or neutered.
Quintrall asked the city council to approve $15,000 in funding. Last year she requested $10,000. Quintrall said the increase was to cover the cost of taking care of a growing number of animals.
Project Reach Early Intervention Center and Preschool Program Coordinator Nichole Maravilla explained the services her school offers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-11.mp3Maravilla said her organization serves 45 children, with all but ten of the children receiving special education. Maraville asked for $8,000, the same as the previous year.
Tina Hill from the Wyoming Frontier Prison was next. Hill provided the city council with some back story about the Old Pen.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-12.mp3Hill said the Old Pen attracted over 12,000 visitors last year, with 96.5% of them coming from outside of Carbon County. Hill requested a $15,000 increase in funding for the coming year. She explained that the $35,000 in city funding would be used for employee salaries and to advertise the Old Pen on Interstate 80.
Downtown Development Authority Main Street Executive Director Pam Thayer was the final presenter. Thayer said with the council’s financial support, she has been able to expand the reach of the DDA for the past 17 years. She said she uses every dollar wisely.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_Rawlins-Non-Profits-13.mp3Thayer asked for the same $50,000 the city council provided the previous fiscal year.
The council thanked every presenter for their time and the support they provided for the community.
The council said that due to lower-than-expected revenue, the city’s budget would be less than in previous years. Meaning, the Rawlins City Council will have to make tough decisions about what organizations they will fund, and how much, for the coming 2023-2024 fiscal year.
May 1, 2023 |
Photo – CCSO Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Carbon County’s Sheriff will be in Saratoga tomorrow to speak to the town council. During his campaign for the job during last year’s election, Alex Bakken made a commitment to be open and transparent. To keep his campaign promise, Sheriff Bakken said he is traveling to each town in the county to provide an update on his department.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_County-Sheriff-1.mp3Tomorrow, Sheriff Bakken will attend the Saratoga town council. During his presentation, the sheriff said he will tell the council about the projects his office has undertaken. Sheriff Bakken said he is especially proud of his new school-based law enforcement program.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_County-Sheriff-2.mp3Law enforcement agencies across the county are experiencing difficulties finding and retaining qualified staff. Sheriff Bakken said he has been fortunate. He said the perks of being a sheriff’s deputy have drawn several competent people to his department.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_County-Sheriff-3.mp3Sheriff Bakken said his presentation to the Saratoga town council will touch on schedule changes and staffing. Even with five new deputies, Sheriff Bakken said he is still searching for more candidates to join his office. He said not everyone is qualified to be a sheriff’s deputy.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_County-Sheriff-4.mp3After discussing departmental updates and his future goals, the sheriff will open the floor to questions from the public. Sheriff Bakken said he hasn’t gotten many inquiries during the other town council meetings he has attended.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/0501_County-Sheriff-5.mp3Sheriff Bakken invited the public to tomorrow’s meeting. The Saratoga town council meeting starts at 6:00pm at the Saratoga Town Hall at 110 East Spring Avenue.
April 28, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Water Treatment Building – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga’s Impact Joint Powers Board discussed water fee increases at their meeting this week.
The board met Wednesday evening to debate changes to the town’s water ordinances. Board members discussed various matters, including changing existing codes and creating new ones with the mayor and Saratoga Town Council members.
The joint powers board tackled the section of the town’s water ordinance governing tap fees. A tap fee is paid by a builder when they connect to the town’s main water supply. As of now, the tap fee is $3,500. Jim Ford said the price needs to reflect the added strain a new connection applies to the existing water network.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0428_Saratoga-Water-Rates-1.mp3The board agreed that $3,500 might not be adequate to support the town’s water infrastructure heading into the future. A rate increase may be necessary. JPB chairman Ryan Munks suggested splitting the fee into two parts.
A tap fee would still be paid when a builder connects to the town’s water main. Afterwards, a connection fee would be assessed when the town installs a water meter and service begins. Munks presented a potential price that factors in current inflation figures.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0428_Saratoga-Water-Rates-2.mp3Russell Waldner said the tap fee should reflect the real-world value of the town’s water infrastructure. He suggested they divide the price of replacing the entire system by the number of users to determine a realistic tap fee.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0428_Saratoga-Water-Rates-3.mp3Mayor Chuck Davis said he would research the cost of the town’s water plant and bring the information back to the JPB at a later date.
The board also discussed raising water rates. Munks said over the past 10 years, the Consumer Price Index has increased 4.2% a year. To keep up with inflation, Munks suggested an automatic annual water rate increase of 3%. Munks read his CPI data to the board.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0428_Saratoga-Water-Rates-4.mp3Mayor Davis said the town could send out yearly reminders about the automatic water rate increase. However, the mayor said to legally update the water rate percentage, the town would need to amend the ordinance every year. Three public readings are required to alter an ordinance. Mayor Davis said summer budget talks are the best time to undertake that process.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0428_Saratoga-Water-Rates-5.mp3Another change to the town’s water codes is the addition of a termination clause for users. Munks said the new language would allow citizens to voluntarily relinquish their water meter to avoid paying fees on a vacant lot. To reconnect the property to the town’s water supply, a connection fee would need to be paid. Munks said the price of the connection fee is to deter part-time residents from removing their meters while they aren’t in town and having the meter replaced when they return.
None of the proposed alterations to the water ordinances have been finalized at this time. The Saratoga Impact Joint Powers Board members will continue to work on the codes. When they are finished, they will bring the completed product to the town council for approval.
April 28, 2023 |
Photo – House to be demolished for more parking space – Courtesy Google Maps
In Rawlins, a house dating back 100 years will be torn down to make way for more parking. At the April 18th Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Building and Grounds Manager Mike Newbrough asked the board to approve the demolition of the century-old home at 222 West Pine Street, in Rawlins. Newbrough said the contract authorized Ace Construction, out of Riverton, to tear down the house.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0428_House-Demo-1.mp3County Clerk Gwen Bartlett said the county purchased the 3-bedroom, 1,300 square foot house last year as part of the Carbon County Courthouse and Carbon Building remodel project. Bartlett said the house was made safe for demolition and will be brought down within the next month.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0428_House-Demo-2.mp3Bartlett said the house, located on the northwest corner of the Carbon Building and Courthouse Annex property, will make way for additional parking. The county clerk said the added spots would be set aside for official vehicles, opening more parking for visitors.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0428_House-Demo-3.mp3Bartlett said the homeowners contacted the county, via a 3rd party, about selling the property. The county clerk said in an attempt to avoid demolishing the 116-year-old structure, the county advertised for bids to relocate the house. None were received.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0428_House-Demo-4.mp3The county commissioners unanimously voted to approve the contract with Hays Trucking of Rawlins. Without someone willing to foot the bill to have the house moved, its fate has been sealed. Demolition of the home at 222 West Pine Street will begin soon.
April 28, 2023 |
Photo – Semi Truck – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Washington, D.C., the U.S. Senate, Thursday, narrowly passed a bill overturning tough Biden-era emission rules on the big trucks that bring essential goods to the American people. The vote was 50-to-49.
The bill, which was backed by Republicans and Democrat Joe Manchin, would repeal the White House rule finalized in December. The White House said it would veto the measure.
Republicans argued the rule would make trucks cost prohibitive for small business owners and increased supply chain costs to consumers while making the U.S. more reliant on China. The White House said the rule “cuts pollution, boosts public health, and advances environmental justice.”
The partisan vote included all 49 Republican Senators and Democrat Joe Manchin from West Virginia voting against the bill which designed to protect the trucking industry and American consumers. The rest of the Senate Democrats held with the White House and voted against the measure.
Under the Congressional Review Act, a simple majority vote in both chambers of Congress can reverse recently finalized rules. The House of Representatives has not yet voted on the bill.
The resolution was led by Nebraska Republican Senator Deb Fischer, who contended that the regulation would devastate the trucking industry, raise costs for consumers, and incentivize older, less efficient trucks to stay on the road.
The narrow vote in the Senate fell far short of the two-thirds majority that would be needed to override a veto, which the Biden White House has already said it would do.
The trucking industry has expressed concerns about the Biden rule, saying compliance will be difficult and costly. Consumers will bear the price.
Views on what the Biden rule will cost to implement vary widely. The White house estimates up to $8,300 per vehicle. The American Truck Dealers Association estimated a $42,000 increase per truck. Other industry experts say the final cost of outfitting trucks to make them legal will range between $20,000 to $25,000 range per truck on the national level.
Ironically, the Biden rule — like Kremlin-era rules in the old Soviet Union—likely will backfire with citizens—companies–devising inventive ways to outsmart the central government’s rules.
By increasing the cost of a new truck, the regulation incentivizes private companies to keep older, higher-emitting trucks in service longer. Industry analysts also predict a massive buy-up of current truck inventories already on the market before the new Democrat rule goes into effect.
In a statement Thursday, Wyoming Senator John Barrasso said the rule is misguided and will hurt both truckers and hard-working Americans. “Families across Wyoming cannot afford higher food prices and more supply chain delays in exchange for Biden’s green dream,” Barrasso said.
Wyoming’s junior Senator Cynthia Lummis said the increase on truckers will be brutal tax on Wyoming residents. “The government’s top priority right now needs to be finding ways to lower costs and a massive Green New Deal tax on truckers is going to do the exact opposite,” said Senator Lummis.
The rule’s new standards cover nitrogen oxides (NOx) and other air-borne pollutants, including hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide (CO).
Existing regulations on trucks enacted in 2010, resulted in a decrease in NOx emissions between 98% and 99% compared to models from the late 1990s.
The first new, ultra-low emission engines are set to roll out in 2026. The Biden rule goes into effect in 2027.
April 28, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Baseball Fields – Courtesy Rawlins Generals Facebook
Volunteers are making a big difference to the neglected Rawlins baseball fields.
During a special work session held on April 4th, Parks and Recreation Director Jason Sehon informed the Rawlins City Council that the town’s sporting fields needed major repairs. Sehon said he was surprised by how overgrown, and rodent infested the ballfields were.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Rawlins-Ballfields-1.mp3Sehon called on volunteers, and city staff, to clean up the ballfields and bring them back to a playable condition. Little League coach Brandon Snyder responded to Sehon’s appeal. Snyder said with the help of players and their parents, he began fixing up the city’s disused little and senior league baseball fields.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Rawlins-Ballfields-2.mp3Snyder said with Sehon’s permission, he was able to use his personal equipment to help improve the ballfield. The little league coach said the field was in very bad shape. He, and his team of four volunteers, really had their work cut out for them.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Rawlins-Ballfields-3.mp3Snyder and the volunteers worked to tidy up the fields for two weekends, so far. Despite the progress they made, Snyder said a lot more remains to be done.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Rawlins-Ballfields-4.mp3With the fields in such bad shape, the kids played mainly in Rock Springs and Casper. Snyder said he’s hopeful the fields will be ready for home games later in the season.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Rawlins-Ballfields-5.mp3During April 4th’s work session, Trevor Taffner, of the American Legion Generals baseball team, said he received a letter from the conference director saying the fields in Rawlins were unsafe to play on. Snyder said the Generals’ fields have taken priority over the youth leagues.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Rawlins-Ballfields-6.mp3While he is optimistic about his chances of scheduling home games this season, Synder acknowledged that much work remains to be done. He said if the volunteers can’t get the fields ready by the end of this year, the improvements that have been made will encourage teams to play in Rawlins next season.
April 27, 2023 |
Photo – 2201-2221 Plaza Street in Rawlins – Courtesy coccadevelopment.com
Rawlins will be the home of a new appliance delivery depot.
An appliance distribution center, focused entirely on delivery within the county, will open in a few years. During the Rawlins City Council meeting on April 18, Councilman Chris Weisenburg motioned to authorize a special use permit for Home Express Delivery Services to operate a local distribution center.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_Distribution-Center-1.mp3The appliance distribution center will be located next door to the Tractor Supply Company between Mahoney and Plaza Streets.
Community Development Director Luis Lascano said the city’s existing zoning ordinances have no code governing this type of business. Lascano said the lack of a current regulation requires a special use permit be issued and approved by the city council.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_Distribution-Center-2.mp3Lascano said the business will take delivery of online appliance orders from Home Depot and distribute them throughout the county. The Community Development Director said he thinks the delivery center will be a great addition to the city, when it opens in 3 to 5 years.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_Distribution-Center-3.mp3Councilman Weisenburg told the council the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission approved the special use permit for the appliance distribution center, unanimously. The councilman stated that the traffic in the area would not increase much because of the new business. Lascano said the distribution center would work exclusively with the home improvement retailer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_Distribution-Center-4.mp3City ordinance requires permission from all property owners within 300 feet of the proposed business site. Lascano said every letter he received back expressed approval of the project, with one minor stipulation. The Community Development Director said one property owner asked that the delivery trucks use the plaza’s rear entrance, off Mahoney Street.
Lascano added that the plan had already received the blessing of the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_Distribution-Center-5.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum opened Councilman Weisenburg’s motion to a vote. The motion passed unanimously. The distribution center is three to five years away from opening its doors for business.
April 27, 2023 |
Photo – Map of proposed National Heritage Area – Courtesy Haas & Lovejoy Protected Area Advisors
Carbon County Commissioners approved a letter of support for a proposed National Heritage Area.
During last Tuesday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Commissioner Travis Moore called for a motion to sign a written letter of support. This letter expresses the board’s desire to investigate the creation of a federally recognized cultural heritage site.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_Heritage-Area-1.mp3Last month, Bigfoot99 reported that Commissioner Moore has been working with Haas and Lovejoy Protected Area Advisors to see if it is possible to create a National Heritage Area in Carbon County. Dr. Glenn Haas is working with Vernon Lovejoy on the project. Speaking to Bigfoot99 last month, Dr. Haas explained why Carbon County is worthy of the national heritage moniker.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_Heritage-Area-2.mp3The proposed national heritage site would be called Pathways to the West. It would be the first of its kind in Wyoming. Federal recognition would bring with it increased tourism to the area. Dr. Haas said the only problem he sees with the project would be too many tourists.
Commissioner Moore brought the idea of creating a national heritage site to the board during their March 21st meeting. At that time, the commissioners were reluctant to sign the letter of support because they weren’t fully aware of how much federal intervention a national heritage site would bring with it. The board asked Commissioner Moore to bring their concerns to Haas and Lovejoy. Dr. Haas said the entire project would be overseen by a locally elected board of directors. The site’s operation would be largely independent from the federal government.
Commissioner Moore delivered his amended letter of support to the board last week. Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones asked for a vote to approve Commissioner Moore’s motion to have the board sign the letter. The motion passed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_Heritage-Area-3.mp3The board will pass the letter of support on to the Natrona Board of Commissioners for their signature as well. With the signed letter of support, Haas and Lovejoy will continue to research the feasibility of establishing a National Heritage Area in our county.
April 27, 2023
Photo – Cram-a-Lot Horizontal Baler – Courtesy cram-a-lot.com
The Rawlins landfill will receive a new garbage baler despite the mayor’s objection.
During last week’s Rawlins city council meeting, Community Development Director Luis Lascano asked the council to approve an appropriation of $146,473 for the purchase of a new garbage baling machine. The Cram-A-Lot Wide Mouth Horizontal Baler will allow landfill employees to compress large amounts of waste into small, easier to transport, cubes. Councilman Chris Weisenburg said not enough money was set aside to buy the machine. The councilman asked where the remaining funds would come from.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_New-Baler-1.mp3The money will come out of funding provided by the Power Company of Wyoming for the construction of the Chokecherry and Sierra Madre Wind Energy Project. Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey told Councilman Weisenburg that only about half of the Chokecherry Impact Assistance Fund has been used. Sarvey said the city could add more impact assistance money to cover the increased cost.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_New-Baler-2.mp3Sarvey said the budget has been approved already and it would be a simple matter to allocate additional money needed for the purchase.
The city council has already approved $136,000 for the new baler. Councilman Weisenburg said he was unaware of such an expensive piece of equipment being approved. He said he thought the council had only authorized buying a smaller machine.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_New-Baler-3.mp3Community Development Director Lascano said $20,000 was a yearly budget item to replace and repair the smaller garbage baler at the landfill. Lascano said the baler needs constant fixing and he’s had to scavenge parts from other sites.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_New-Baler-4.mp3Lascano said the landfill receives garbage from across the city. He said the smaller baler requires crews to break down large piles of refuse and hand feed the trash into the machine. The new baler will save labor time.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_New-Baler-5.mp3The city recently approved the construction of an $80,000 building at the dump to house the new baler. Mayor Terry Weickum said he voted for the new building because he was under the impression that the city would recoup some of the cost by selling bales of recyclable items. Lascano said he can’t guarantee the price of recycling. The community development director said prices are way down on things like cardboard.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_New-Baler-6.mp3Mayor Weickum said the landfill would need to store enough bales to fill several semi-trucks at once to turn a profit. The mayor said he thought the new building would only be used to store garbage waiting for transport.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_New-Baler-7.mp3Mayor Weickum said he didn’t recall seeing plans to house the baling machine in the new building. Lascano said the project was approved two years ago. He said the 60-by 85-foot structure had enough space for both, the baler and the garbage.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_New-Baler-8.mp3Lascano said the building is tall enough to stack three bales of cardboard on top of each other.
The city received three bids for the purchase of the baler. Councilwoman Jacquelin Wells motioned to approve the purchase of the baling machine from the lowest bidder, Pro-Baler Services out of Salt Lake City, Utah.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0427_New-Baler-9.mp3The motion passed with six for and one against. Mayor Weickum was the lone negative vote.
April 26, 2023 |
Photo – Dropped Antler – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department will delay the start of the 2023 shed horn collection season.
In a statement, officials with the state’s big game agency said the usual May 1st start date for shed horn collecting has been pushed back to May 15th.
According to the statement, harsh winter conditions have left the animals more susceptible to human interference. People roaming through their territory will put an already at-risk population under unneeded additional pressure.
Carbon County isn’t the only area experiencing the delay. A map provided by Game and Fish shows the boundary extends to the western border of the state and north past Pinedale. Teton County will open without the added two week wait.
April 26, 2023 |
Photo – Union Wireless Logo – Courtesy Union Wireless
Union Wireless users experienced a state-wide phone outage on Thursday last week. You may or may not have noticed.
Customers of Union Wireless lost the ability to make and receive telephone calls. Union Wireless Public Relations Manager Myra Robinson issued a press release on Monday evening.
Robinson’s statement read, “We experienced an outage April 20th that impacted voice services for both wireless and landline customers. We recognize how frustrating this outage was for our customers. We value our customer experience, and it is our highest priority to review the cause of this outage and use the information to mitigate future service disruptions. We are committed to providing reliable and essential communication services for the rural areas we serve.”
Data and internet access were unaffected.
Carbon County residents expressed concern and irritation on social media following the outage. The Bigfoot 99 phone system was affected. Robinson did not provide any additional information, such as the cause of the outage. Missed calls were available on the station’s voice mail service.
Our calls and emails to Robinson at Union Wireless in Mountain View about the outage went unanswered and unreturned.
April 26, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Fire Protection District Logo – Courtesy CCFPD website
Progress continues to be made on the newly formed Carbon County Fire Protection District.
Last November, the voters of Carbon County approved the formation of a fire protection district to provide coverage for all unincorporated areas of the county. The district would be paid using a 3-mill levy, set to take effect this October. The voters agreed and work began to make the Carbon County Fire Protection District a reality.
Forming a completely new agency, from the ground up, has been a daunting task. Homer Beach is president of the Fire Protection District. Speaking at last week’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners Meeting, Beach said things are moving forward smoothly. He said the county’s IT Director Matt Webster has been helping him with phone and computer related problems. Beach said he was very grateful for Webster’s help.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Fire-District-1.mp3Beach said the fire protection district is close to choosing an attorney. He said he’s interviewed one applicant already. An attorney from Casper has been delayed multiple times because of the weather.
Beach said he wants to interview the lawyer from Natrona County before making a final decision. An attorney is needed because the fire protection district is still finalizing certain policies and directives.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Fire-District-2.mp3Beach said he is hoping to have a completed set of standard operating guidelines for the Fire Protection District in the near future. He said he’s also working on benefits and a personnel manual, a step necessary for hiring additional employees. Beach explained his pressing need for more staff.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Fire-District-3.mp3During their March 21st meeting, the county commissioners discussed what to do with the vacant Interim Justice Center, on East Murray Street. The county’s court proceedings were moved to the Interim Justice Center while the County Courthouse was renovated. With work finished on the courthouse, the Interim Justice Center is no longer needed. County Clerk Gwen Bartlett suggested allowing the Fire Protection District to use the building as its headquarters. Beach said he is considering the proposition.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Fire-District-4.mp3June is budget time in Carbon County. Beach thanked Fire Warden John Rutherford for helping him devise a spending plan. Beach said he’s waiting to find out how much money the Fire Protection District will receive in the coming fiscal year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Fire-District-5.mp3To provide coverage across the county, the Fire Protection District needs a signed contract from every municipality. Beach said he’s in talks with the towns, but he can’t offer them any official documents until a budget has been set.
Beach said the Fire Protection District is farther along than he could have hoped for. He offered his gratitude to Clerk Bartlett, IT Director Webster, Fire Warden Rutherford, and everyone who helped.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0426_Fire-District-6.mp3Beach said he expects the Carbon County Fire Protection District to be fully functional by the end of the year.
April 26, 2023 |
Photo – Strand Theater in Rawlins – Bigfoot99 file photo
Rawlins is getting set to begin work on at least one brownfield building in the city.
The Brownfields Program was started by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1995. The program exists to provide financial assistance to municipalities with abandoned or underutilized buildings with known or suspected environmental contamination. Executive Director of Rawlins Downtown Development Authority Main Street Pam Thayer said the city has four sites that meet the Brownfields criteria.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_Brownfield-1.mp3Thayer said the city unsuccessfully requested a Brownfields grant last year. Seeing a genuine need for the program, Thayer said the state chose to move forward with minimal city intervention. The first building targeted for clean-up is the former Pink Motel. A contractor has been hired to remediate the structure. Thayer said the state will oversee the project with the city only serving as a liaison for the property owners.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_Brownfield-2.mp3Thayer said she was contacted by Brownfields and Orphan Sites Remediation Program Supervisor Cindy Martinez about other funding opportunities. Thayer said the state will pay to find out if the former motel would be suitable for another use.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_Brownfield-3.mp3Similar to the Pink Motel remediation project, the state will be in full control of the feasibility studies. The city will only act as a go-between for the property owners and the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, the agency that oversees the Brownfields program. Thayer said the feasibility studies should be completed by late summer or early fall.
Thayer isn’t satisfied with the four Rawlins properties the state identified in their assessment. The DDA Director said she’s already applied for an additional half million-dollar Brownfields grant. Thayer said she’s working with DDA/Main Street staffers Ariel Cisneros and Brian Dent to identify potential sites.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_Brownfield-4.mp3Thayer also said Brownfields Program Supervisor Martinez contacted her about another potential funding opportunity. Martinez told Thayer that the Environmental Protection Agency’s local Brownfields Project Manager Greg Davis had created a new program to fund the destruction of hazardous buildings.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_Brownfield-5.mp3Thayer said the tear-down money could only be used on city owned property. Mayor Terry Weickum asked Thayer if there would be any roadblocks preventing the city from taking ownership of the Pink Motel. Thayer said a bank owns a lien on the motel. She said a banker told her if the cost to bring the property up to code exceeds what the bank is willing to pay, the bank could, hypothetically, gift the property to the city.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_Brownfield-6.mp3With the deed to the property in hand, the city could sell the building after the remediation is completed. Thayer said the city would lose an eyesore and receive future property taxes at the same time. She said it’s a win-win for the city.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_Brownfield-7.mp3The Pink Motel is the first of four Rawlins buildings to receive treatment from the Brownfields program. Thayer said she is confident her latest grant application will be approved. If so, many more abandoned and hazardous structures could get a new lease on life.
April 25, 2023 |
Photo – North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo
All the indicators point toward major flooding this spring and the Carbon County Emergency Management Office is preparing flood-prone communities in the area.
Carbon County’s Office of Emergency Management is preparing for the possibility of heavy flooding.
The past winter has dumped large amounts of snow on the county. Higher elevations have snow-packs well above average, some over 200% higher than normal. With the threat of flooding, hanging over low laying towns in harm’s way, Emergency Manager Lenny Layman is working to ensure the county is ready for an emergency.
During last week’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Layman asked the board to approve two Memorandums of Understanding, or MOUs, with Baggs and Dixon to allow the use of the county’s automatic sandbagging machine. He said Medicine Bow used the machine to fill 2,800 sandbags. The emergency manager said he’ll bring the machine to Baggs, where they’re prepared to fill 12,000 sandbags.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Flood-Potential-1.mp3The commissioners approved the MOU’s for the towns of Baggs and Dixon to use the sandbag machine. Layman said he may also draft an MOU for Encampment if flooding looks likely there, as well.
Layman said the machine will be in Baggs for roughly a week before it is transported to Saratoga. The emergency manager said Saratoga will serve as a hub, filling sandbags and shipping them to other towns as needed.
In addition to the two MOUs, Layman asked the board to approve a county-wide declaration of emergency. The emergency manager said he had presented a flooding emergency declaration to County Attorney Ashley Davis, but the state requested a general emergency declaration instead.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Flood-Potential-2.mp3Layman informed Attorney Davis that the body of the declaration had not changed, only the title. Layman said the county’s signed emergency declaration would allow him to seek outside assistance, should the county be unable to handle a disaster on its own.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Flood-Potential-3.mp3Commissioner John Johnson asked why the county needed to sign a declaration of emergency before an emergency occurred. Layman said the Office of Homeland Security feels that a plausible threat of flooding exists. The emergency manager said the signed document would allow him to arrange for assistance, as quickly as possible. He said the county is not obligated to use the declaration if an emergency does not happen.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Flood-Potential-4.mp3Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones said Layman would still be required to alert the board if he were to declare an emergency. Layman reiterated the need for expediency in the event of a disaster. The emergency manager said the declaration would expire after the spring run-off finished, if it was not needed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Flood-Potential-5.mp3The board agreed to sign Layman’s emergency declaration resolution.
Layman said he is working with the Office of Homeland Security to have prisoners in the Wyoming State Penitentiary fill sandbags. He said a test run of a few thousand bags will allow the prison to fine tune their process in the event more bags are needed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Flood-Potential-6.mp3As of Monday of this week–yesterday, Layman reported that around 3,000 sandbags had been filled and are waiting to be picked up by whichever municipality needs them first. If the sandbags aren’t needed in Carbon County, Layman said he would make them available for other counties to use.
April 25, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Water Treatment Plant – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins Public Works Director says he is confident about the city’s water future.
The city continues to suffer from water shortages caused by aging pipes and low aquafers. More summer water restrictions are likely, despite a snowier than average winter. Public Works Director Cody Dill said the city has a plan to increase its water supply, but only time will tell if it will be effective.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Rawlins-Water-1.mp3According to Dill, restarting the spring pumps isn’t a difficult or time-consuming process. He said it’s a matter of turning some valves and flushing the system of accumulated sediment.
The pre-treatment plant is a different matter. Last summer’s water failures highlighted the need for other solutions. To supplement the springs, the abandoned 23-year-old pre-treatment plant will be brought back online. The abandoned plant will remove debris and other contaminants from the North Platte River and send pre-treated water to the treatment plant to be further refined, augmenting the city’s supply of water.
A broken valve has stalled the pre-treatment plan’s reopening. Dill said he’s spoken to the company that manufactures the valve. The public works director said he’s confident the work will be fast-tracked.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Rawlins-Water-2.mp3The pre-treatment plant was built in the year 2000. Dill said trouble in finding the proper chemical mixture put a halt to the operations before the plant was ever truly functional. He said testing was done for a few weeks when construction was completed, but the building has sat idle ever since. The public works director said he thinks they have the chemicals figured out. He added that no other towns in Wyoming have attempted this type of two-stage treatment process before.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Rawlins-Water-3.mp3Dill said once the pre-treatment plant is restored, it will become a permanent part of the Rawlins water supply system. He said keeping the plant operational year-long is crucial as the city works to repair the rest of its water infrastructure.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Rawlins-Water-4.mp3The city’s water problem is not a new issue. Rawlins has had trouble providing enough water for citizens almost from its inception. Studies done in the early 1960’s by Pipeline Superintendent, Ben Davis, showed the aquifers that provide the city with water had dropped substantially since the first wells were installed in 1891. According to a report provided by Davis, “After a few more dry years there will be no flowing wells in the Rawlins basin.”
In 1917, the city government saw the need for an increased water supply. Engineers were hired to find an alternative to the wells within the city limits. City engineer James Wisda strongly supported tapping into the Sage Creek springs, south of town. Wisda promoted the idea, to such an extent, that he became known as Sage Creek Jimmy.
Wisda’s advice was taken in 1922, after plans to reroute or dam part of the North Platte River were abandoned. By May of 1924, the city had built more than 32-miles of wood stave pipe from the Sage Creek aquifer into town. Ultimately, the failure of the aged-and-unreplaced wooden pipes contributed to last summer’s massive water system breakdown.
Despite positive test results, the springs never met the city’s needs. To maintain projected growth until the year 2080, a constant flow of 5 cubic feet of water per second is needed. The Sage Creek springs only produce an average of 2 cubic feet—less than half of what Rawlins needs.
Even in the 1960’s, engineers saw that years of drought would leave the aquifers unable to keep up with future demand. Citizens now are experiencing this phenomenon first-hand.
Dill said he is hopeful the addition of the pre-treatment plant will allow the city to be less restrictive about water usage this year. None the less, the public works director said it will be early summer before he knows how effective the system will be.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Rawlins-Water-5.mp3Dill said he wants to reassure residents that the city is doing everything it can to increase the supply of water. He said the repairs made since last summer and the addition of the pre-treatment plant gives him hope that water restrictions may be a thing of the past.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0425_Rawlins-Water-6.mp3The public works director said he sees a future where the city has an abundance of water, although Dill said that dream was years down the road.
According to former Pipeline Superintendent Davis, the city’s water problems are not new. Sources close to the administration are hopeful that last summer’s catastrophe has opened the city’s eyes to the decades of neglect – and lack of leadership – that allowed such a disastrous event to occur over many years of neglect.
A major retooling of how Rawlins deals with its water infrastructure is needed to ensure another breakdown doesn’t happen and the city can continue to grow long into the future.
April 25, 2023 |
Photo – Hanna Elementary School – Bigfoot99 file photo
Fourth graders in Hanna are putting on a living wax museum portraying figures with ties to the area.
For their fourth-grade school project, Hanna Elementary School students are staging a living wax museum. Hanna Elementary School fourth-grade teacher Sarah Jones said the kids will perform as people with a close connection with Hanna, such as Ed McAtee.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0423_Hanna-Wax-Museum-1.mp3Jones said she teaches the children about the people who influenced the history of the area. She said afterwards, the students choose the characters they want to depict.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0423_Hanna-Wax-Museum-2.mp3Jones said the students were not limited to choosing people who shaped the character of the town. She described how one student chose to act as Edith Birchall Erickson, a young woman whose entire family was killed in the 1908 Hanna Mine #1 explosion.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0423_Hanna-Wax-Museum-3.mp3Jones said the project is meant to tell the stories of people who not only inhabited Hanna and the surrounding area, but also people whose lives were altered by the town. She said another student has chosen to represent David Elias, a mine inspector who was killed in the 1908 mine disaster.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0423_Hanna-Wax-Museum-4.mp3The students will dress in period appropriate attire and have a short lecture prepared detailing their character’s life. The kids will stand in place and, when an attendee presses a button in front of them, they will recite their speech.
Jones said the Hanna Elementary School students will have the privilege of seeing the performance before the public. The Hanna Living Wax Museum will open to the public at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, May 10th. Entrance is free of charge.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0423_Hanna-Wax-Museum-5.mp3All are invited to come watch history come alive.
April 24, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Fire Station #2 – Bigfoot99 file photo
Officials from the Wyoming Association of Municipalities are coming to Rawlins to host a city council training class. The public is encouraged to attend the session virtually.
During last week’s city council meeting, Mayor Terry Weickum said WAM will be in town on Saturday, April 29th. Mayor Weickum said Fire Chief Blain Schumacher will allow the training class, referred to as a boot camp, to be held at Fire Station #2. The mayor said the meeting will be open to town council members from all municipalities in Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_WAM-Rawlins-1.mp3A new state law mandates that all public officers must undergo financial training for their city to be eligible for state grants and loans. All elected council members in Wyoming are required to perform the training before the end of the next fiscal year. Rawlins Mayor Weickum said Saturday’s class will satisfy the city’s legal requirements.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_WAM-Rawlins-2.mp3Mayor Weickum said the upcoming training will be produced by the same people responsible for the WAM boot camp held in Cheyenne in January. The mayor said a new lesson about handling financial records will be added to the course. The mayor said the class ensures that the council’s budgeting methods conform with state law.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_WAM-Rawlins-3.mp3The training class will start at 10:00 am and is expected to last until around 4:30. Councilman Darril Garner said he would be unable to make it and asked if other programs were available to provide the required training. The councilman also asked if he could be financially compensated for his travel.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_WAM-Rawlins-4.mp3Mayor Weickum said WAM is hosting another training boot camp in Cody at the beginning of June. The mayor said no other towns in Carbon County were prepared to offer the same type of education Councilman Garner would find during Saturday’s class.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_WAM-Rawlins-5.mp3Mayor Weickum told Councilman Garner to call WAM Member Services Manager Justin Schilling to find out about other training classes. Garner asked if he is required to be physically present during June’s WAM boot camp in Cody. Mayor Weickum said he thinks so, but suggested Councilman Garner ask Schilling to be sure.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_WAM-Rawlins-6.mp3The training class will be held on April 29th from 10:00am to 4:30pm. Mayor Weickum asked the public to attend virtually. He said it would be a good way for people to see how the city government functions and learn the rules the council must abide by.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_WAM-Rawlins-7.mp3House Bill 60 only requires the council members to obtain financial training. WAM offers the necessary training, but also includes classes on other topics, such as community development and ethics.
Council members Garner and Tonya Lewman have introduced a code of ethics to be adopted by the council.
Councilman Garner said he provided City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade with a draft copy of proposed ethics rules Lewman and he drafted. The councilman said he was waiting on possible revisions from the city’s legal department before presenting the document to the rest of the council.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_WAM-Rawlins-8.mp3Mayor Weickum asked Councilman Garner to wait until after Saturday’s training to present the finished ethics document. The mayor said WAM’s training may address questions the councilman has about the city’s codes of conduct. Councilwoman Lewman expressed her approval.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_WAM-Rawlins-9.mp3Ethics is a hot button topic for other members of the Rawlins city government. Former city councilman Aaron Durst resigned his position as president of the Rawlins Airport Board before last week’s city council meeting.
In Durst’s letter of resignation, he cited his opposition to the council’s handling of Dirty Boyz and to how the city responded to last year’s illegal campaign contribution to Councilwoman Lewman as the motivation for resigning from the airport board.
During Tuesday’s meeting, all seven members of the city council voted to accept Durst’s resignation and to advertise the vacated position.
Saturday’s city council training meeting will be broadcast on the City of Rawlins YouTube page. A link to the video will also be posted on the city’s Facebook page, City of Rawlins Government.
April 24, 2023 |
Photo – Marton Ranch in Natrona County – Courtesy farmandranch.com
Governor Mark Gordon is encouraging Wyoming citizens to provide comments on the Bureau of Land Management’s preliminary environmental assessment (EA) that provides supplemental analysis to the Marton Ranch Acquisition EA.
The BLM Casper Field Office released its supplemental analysis of the purchase this past Friday and announced a 21-day public comment period, closing Friday, May 12, 2023.
The Governor’s public criticism of the federal agency’s handling of the purchase last year forced the current public comment period, which would not have occurred otherwise.
The BLM issued the original Marton Ranch EA and its largely hushed-up purchase of Marton’s river-front property in Natrona County last May.
The State of Wyoming quickly appealed the BLM’s decision with the Interior Board of Land Appeals. The IBLA agreed with Wyoming and ordered the current public comment period.
The new agreement follows last year’s off-the-radar federal purchase of the 35,670-acre Marton Ranch. Wyoming appealed the decision. A settlement was reached in October requiring the current public comment period.
The Governor said in a statement that he opposed the largely secretive process the BLM used to seal the deal, not the deal itself. “Meaningful public input and environmental analysis are critical steps in any federal land acquisition process, and this public comment period is necessary to fulfill the agreement between the BLM and the State of Wyoming,”
The BLM’s acting Casper Field Office Manager, Ben Bigalke, said the federal agency is “looking for comments specific to the additional analysis and potential impacts that could result from the property changing from private to public hands.”
The Governor encouraged interested parties to submit public comments on the proposed land deal, which includes a small portion of land in Carbon County. The majority of the Marton Ranch lies along the North Platte River southwest of Casper. A small portion stretches south into a small, arid section of northern Carbon County.
Comments will be accepted in writing or through the BLM’s ePlanning website, https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2018049/510. Hard copy comments can be mailed or hand-delivered to the BLM Casper Field Office, Attn: Mike Robinson, 2987 Prospector Dr., Casper, WY 82604.
April 24, 2023 |
Photo – Brush Creek Road Bridge – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
WYDOT to close a county road this week to conduct testing on a bridge.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation will close a portion of County Road 203 on Wednesday, April 26th, for geology operations. WYDOT Public Relations Specialist Andrea Staley described the project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_Bridge-Repairs.mp3The section of County Road 203, also known as Brush Creek Road, is about 8 and a half miles northeast of Riverside, where it crosses over the North Platte River. Project CN06068, as it is known internally at WYDOT, will completely replace the 93-year-old, single-lane bridge. The project is expected to cost around $3.6 million.
The preliminary geological testing will allow engineers to design a more permanent river crossing. The bridge replacement project is scheduled to begin in 2026.
According to a WYDOT press release, the temporary closure is anticipated to last one day. Travelers to the John E Rouse Beef Improvement Center may want to find an alternative route this Wednesday.
April 24, 2023 |
Photo – WY U.S. House Representative Harriet Hageman – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Washington, D.C., Wyoming’s Harriet Hageman blasted the White House and the layers of gatekeepers for hiding the Hunter Biden laptop story and the dark truths it might expose. Hageman called for Secretary of State Antony Blinken to appear before Congress to testify about his role in crafting the letter by 51 former intelligence officials who discredited the laptop story in the leadup to the 2020 Presidential election.
The long-buried laptop story resurfaced last week. Former Deputy CIA Director Michael Morell testified to Republican investigators that Blinken — previously a Biden campaign official — had contacted him regarding the Hunter laptop story published in the New York Post. Blinken “set in motion, the events that led to the issuance of a public statement” by the former spy masters, who discredited the story as Russian disinformation.
Hageman sits on the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of Government. Wyoming’s sole House member told Breitbart News, over the weekend, that “it didn’t take rocket science to figure out that laptop was absolutely true.”
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_Rep-Hageman-1.mp3The mainstream media first ignored, then censored, the original story in the Post. Meanwhile, The Biden campaign orchestrated the letter, featuring the 51 former intelligence officials, dating back to the Clinton Administration. The team-Biden spy masters touted the laptop story as Russian disinformation. Republican House investigators now say “the Biden campaign played an active role in the origins of the public statement, which had the effect of helping to suppress the Hunter Biden story.”
These were the same officials who had touted weapons of mass destruction in Iraq during the Bush years and executed 540 drone strikes on foreign civilians under Obama.
Hageman told Breitbart, Saturday, that none of the 51 intel officials were subject to a serious inquiry into their findings, which were published widely in the mainstream media.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0424_Rep-Hageman-2.mp3Hageman said the 2020 spy masters letter, organized by the Biden campaign to discredit the laptop story, was the beginning of the cover-up.
The laptop story is picking up new momentum. The State Department refused to comment on whether Secretary of State Blinken disputes the assertions that he played a role in orchestrating the former intelligence officials to discredit the laptop story ahead of the 2020 election.
The White House also deflected questions into whether the Biden campaign led the effort to discredit the Hunter Biden laptop story.
Hageman said Blinken’s involvement in trying to cover-up the Post’s story on, which contained evidence suggesting Joe Biden and his family had profited from his son’s shady foreign business dealings, called into question whether he can be a credible Secretary of State representing the American people.
April 21, 2023 |
Photo – Hanna Hometown Market – Courtesy Google Photos
A 2-hour electrical power outage, affecting most of Hanna Wednesday evening, caused big trouble at the Hometown Market.
From 5:32-to-7:16 p.m., over 500 Hanna homes and businesses were without electrical power. Senior Communications Specialist at Pacificorp, the parent company of Rocky Mountain Power, David Eskelsen said the outage was caused by faulty equipment on the electrical lines.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_Hanna-Power-Outage-1.mp3General Manager, of the Hanna Hometown Market, Audrey Seegmiller said she was at home preparing dinner for her children when the power went out. Seconds later, Seegmiller said she received a call from her employees informing her the store was out of power too.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_Hanna-Power-Outage-2.mp3Seegmiller said she raced back to the store. With no electricity, the freezers and refrigerators were not operating. Seegmiller said the frozen food would be fine for several hours, but the race was on to save the perishable items before they thawed out.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_Hanna-Power-Outage-3.mp3Dairy, meats, and prepackaged fruit must remain above a certain temperature. The FDA and USDA both advise that food kept above 41 degrees for more than two hours should be discarded. If Seegmiller wasn’t able to transfer the refrigerated food into the freezers, she would lose valuable stock. Not knowing when the power would come back on, Seegmiller said her employees began to move the cold items.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_Hanna-Power-Outage-4.mp3Seegmiller said the refrigerators warm up quickly without power, but take a long time to cool down to the proper temperature. To ensure the food didn’t spoil, Seegmiller said her employees waited until the next morning to put the cold items back into the coolers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_Hanna-Power-Outage-5.mp3The freezers weren’t the only things affected by the power outage. The system used by the Hanna Hometown Market to process payments relies on the internet. With the internet down, Seegmiller was unable to sell any product and had to close. The store manager said the weather has changed people’s shopping habits, so losing 2 hours of business caused a serious financial impact on the store.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_Hanna-Power-Outage-6.mp3By Thursday morning, the Hanna Hometown Market was back up and running. Seegmiller thanked her employees for their hard work during the power outage.
April 21, 2023 |
Photo – WYDOT Road Closure Map – Courtesy WYDOT
WYDOT has announced a temporary road closure on Carbon County Road 203, the Brush Creek Road, for this coming Wednesday.
According to a release from the state road and bridge department, the closure will allow the department to perform “geology operations.” The temporary closure is expected to last one day.
According to the map attached with the news release, the April 26th closure will begin on County Road 203 at the junction with County Road 660 near the Butler Bridge at the North Platte River. The closure will continue northward to near the CSU Beef Improvement Center.
All WYDOT project scheduling is subject to change based on weather and availability of materials. Bigfoot 99 will keep you updated.
April 21, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
Back-to-back resignations caused the Saratoga Planning Commission to lose half of its members.
The Saratoga Planning Commission’s stated purpose is to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the community and foster appropriate land development in the town.
According to the planning commission by-laws, adopted in November of 2014, “The Saratoga Planning Commission shall be composed of seven members.” Following the departures of Judy Doms, Theresa Manley, and Joe Schwartz, the planning commission is down to four members, Lindy Glode, Mike Lamprecht, Chairwoman McCall Burau, and Mayor Chuck Davis.
During Tuesday’s town council meeting, Mayor Davis said he shouldn’t be a member of the planning commission at all. The Wyoming Association of Municipalities, or WAM, recommends council members not participate in the town’s boards and commissions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_Planning-Board-1.mp3The planning commission requires at least half of the members be present to form a quorum, or the minimum number of people needed for a meeting. If the mayor chose to abstain, the commission might not have a quorum and couldn’t vote on ordinance or zoning changes. New members are needed to fill the three empty seats.
The planning commission by-laws state members must live in Saratoga or within a one-mile buffer zone. Terms last for five years and a person is limited to serving two consecutive terms. Interested people should have some knowledge of the town’s zoning ordinances or a willingness to learn.
Mayor Davis has said that limiting the 5-year term to only two-years may help attract more people to the position. However, a change of the planning commission by-laws would be required. Others say two years is not time to learn the job.
Mayor Davis said he received a letter of interest from Nancy Ford. Town Clerk Marie Christen read Ford’s letter to the council.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_Planning-Board-2.mp3The council was unable to vote on Ford’s inclusion in the planning commission until after the advertising phase ends next week. Open positions must be advertised in the local newspaper and online for two weeks before they can be filled.
To apply for an open planning commission seat, simply write a letter of interest and bring it to the town hall.
April 21, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Library Rawlins Branch – Courtesy Carbon County Library
The Carbon County library director wants to remind residents that the library has more to offer than just books.
Last year, over 50,000 people visited the eight branches that make up the Carbon County library system. Library Director Maria Wenzel said the library is the heart of the community. As the world evolves, so too must the library.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_County-Library-1.mp3The Carbon County library system offers over 110,000 different items to check out. It’s not just books. Wenzel said the library has 3D printers, laser cutters, and podcasting equipment. The library director said she has teamed up with the University of Wyoming to offer blood pressure monitors.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_County-Library-2.mp3Wenzel said 20 blood pressure kits are available throughout the county. The Rawlins Library has four monitors with the remaining kits distributed among the other branches. Wenzel said the University of Wyoming’s Center for Aging is working to increase the availability of convenient medical testing in rural communities.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_County-Library-3.mp3The Carbon County library system also offers over 1000 different programs for kids, teens, and adults. Wenzel said a total of almost 10,000 people attended the programs last year.
Wenzel said over 46,000 items have been checked out during the past year. She said the number includes more than just books. For instance, Saratoga’s library has telescopes available. On top of educational kits and games, Wenzel said Elk Mountain offers unique items all its own.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_County-Library-4.mp3Wenzel said patrons may request items from other branches or even from outside of the county library system. Digital books can be borrowed using a computer program called Libby.
The Rawlins branch of the Carbon County library system recently moved into the newly renovated Carbon Building and Courthouse Annex. Wenzel said she is enjoying the new space.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_County-Library-5.mp3Wenzel said no books will be thrown away. She said the library was able to remove outdated items, such as old travel guides. Having less floorspace means the library must focus on offering more pertinent items.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_County-Library-6.mp3Libraries have changed over the decades. Computers have taken over for the card catalog. Wenzel said libraries need to adapt to stay relevant. Offering a large selection of activities allows the library to remain an important part of people’s lives.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0421_County-Library-7.mp3Despite being one of the most diverse counties in the state, Wenzel said most Carbon County residents agree on one thing. The library director said CJ Box is the most popular author in the county.
April 20, 2023 |
Photo – Never Forget Park Plans – Courtesy Town of Saratoga
Plans for Saratoga’s Never Forget Park have been finalized.
During Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis said the town’s oft delayed memorial park is finally ready for construction. Mayor Davis said WLC Engineering has submitted the finished designs.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_Never-Forget-Park-1.mp3The Never Forget Memorial Park began as a tribute to fallen Saratoga war hero, Sergeant Tyler Picket. Sgt. Picket was killed in action on June 8th, 2008, while serving in Iraq. As planning moved forward, the scope of the project evolved. The park would not only honor Sgt. Pickett, but all those who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of others, including the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Making the Never Forget Park a reality has been a long process. A proposed land deal was nixed at the last minute when it was discovered the town was offering a valuable parcel in exchange for a small strip of dirt at the proposed park site. Construction plans needed to be redesigned to accommodate the smaller footprint.
The town finally received a completed curb and gutter design package last September. The project was shelved during winter. With spring around the corner, work can finally begin.
Mayor Davis said the engineering firm’s plans include the total cost of the project, but he wouldn’t provide that information. The town must advertise for contractors and having the actual price publicly known would affect the bidding process.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_Never-Forget-Park-2.mp3According to the official Never Forget Park website, neverforgetpark.com, the estimated final cost is $745,000.
Mayor Davis suggested council wait until after budget hearing before going out to bid on the park project. Councilman Jerry Fluty asked if, in the meantime, the Never Forget Park committee had enough money to begin the project. Mayor Davis said no. He said the committee’s Wyo Star account contains $178,000. The council approved $100,000 for the park from the previous budget.
Mayor Davis said waiting until after the budget hearings would also allow Never Forget Park committee member Stacy Crimmins to receive word on several grant applications, totaling another $150,000.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_Never-Forget-Park-3.mp3It appears that $278,000 is not enough money to begin construction of the park.
The council agreed to wait until budget talks begin before advertising for contractor bids on the Never Forget Park.
April 20, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
Behind-the-scenes discord between factions of the Rawlins governing body spilled into public view Tuesday night. The trigger point came during discussion of whether a councilmember, who advocates for public ethics, should reimburse the city. The councilmember missing a scheduled training session on ethics and then billed the city for an additional night’s stay.
The discussion unfolded after council members returned from executive session. Mayor Terry Weickum asked if any council member considered anything that had been said during the closed-door session as improper. A few moments of silence followed. Mayor Weickum then singled out Councilman Darril Garner. The mayor explained what was discussed out of public view.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-1.mp3Over three days at the end of January, the Wyoming Association of Municipalities, or WAM, held a conference and training program for newly elected town council members. The training boot camp, held in Cheyenne, consisted of several classes on ethics, community planning, and budgeting.
Mayor Weickum accused Councilman Garner of missing a specific portion of the WAM conference. The mayor said the city paid an extra fee for Garner to attend the training boot camp. Councilman Garner said he was under the impression the entire event was one set price.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-2.mp3Mayor Weickum provided Councilman Garner with an invoice breaking down the cost associated with the WAM meetings.
The city paid $260 per council member to attend the sessions. Mayor Weickum suggested that Councilman Garner should reimburse the city for the price of the boot camp, since he missed that portion of the conference. Councilman Garner said the boot camp was included in the overall price of the conference. He acknowledged that a separate price for the training existed, but said it was only for people who didn’t pay for the entire event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-3.mp3Councilman Garner said the total price of the conference included the training boot camp. Mayor Weickum said the city paid $150 for Vice Mayor Steve Sanger to attend only the training classes. However, the mayor said the city paid the full registration fee for Councilman Garner to attend both the conference and boot camp.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-4.mp3Councilman Garner said WAM did not provide a separate fee to only attend the conference. The training boot camp was part of a package deal. The councilman said it would have cost the city the same amount whether he went to the boot camp or not.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-5.mp3Mayor Weickum also accused Councilman Garner of charging an unauthorized day’s hotel stay to the city. The councilman said the poor weather caused the delay, adding that he should not be expected to reimburse the city because his delay was caused by an act of God.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-6.mp3The conversation then returned to the topic of Garner missing the training session. Councilman Garner attempted to turn the tables on the council. He pointed out that dinner was also included in the conference price. The councilman said many of his fellow council members did not attend the first evening’s meal.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-7.mp3Vice Mayor Sanger said the first night was a reception with only hors d’oeuvers being served. Councilman Garner then turned his attention to Mayor Weickum. He accused the mayor of willingly skipping parts of the conference to address personal matters. The councilman demanded the mayor be held to the same standard.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-8.mp3Councilman Garner appeared to become agitated by the discussion. He accused the council of personally attacking him. The councilman said he could have added additional expenses to the city’s tab but opted not to.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-9.mp3Vice Mayor Sanger said Councilman Garner has the right to charge meals to the city while on official business. Garner said he didn’t feel comfortable having the taxpayers pay for his food, knowing he was absent for a portion of the conference.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-10.mp3Councilman Garner asked Mayor Weickum if he would face repercussions for his actions. Before the mayor could respond, the councilman accused the mayor of being misinformed about the price of the training.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0420_WAM-11.mp3Following Councilman Garner’s comments, Mayor Weickum asked for a motion to adjourn the city council meeting. The council did not provide any further comments on the contentious matter.
April 20, 2023 |
Photo – Emergency Dispatch Center – Bigfoot99 file photo
Carbon County law enforcement has a new tool in its arsenal. Police dispatchers are now able to see live video taken from a caller’s phone. Officers will now have a better understanding of the situation before responding to a scene.
Rawlins and Saratoga Police dispatchers are using software, called Prepared Live, to allow the sharing of real-time video from callers. Rawlins Police Department’s Communications Supervisor Valeta Rodabaugh said when a person calls 911 or the local police dispatch center, the caller is sent a text message containing a link. The link asks for permission to share video with the dispatcher, Rodabaugh said as she explained the system.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Prepared-Live-1.mp3The Prepared Live program does not allow police to access the caller’s camera unless they’ve clicked the link in the text message.
Saratoga Police Department Head Dispatcher Alyx Munson said the software has preset messages that can be sent to a caller. Munson described what would happen in the event of a fire emergency call.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Prepared-Live-2.mp3No matter how much information they are given over the phone, officers are never fully sure what they will be responding to. With the Prepared Live service, officers will have better situational awareness before they arrive at a scene. Responders can see what victims and perperators look like and learn about potential threats.
In Carbon County, the Prepared Live software has already proven to be valuable tool for search and rescue. Munson gave an example of using the program to help direct officers to a stranded motorist.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Prepared-Live-3.mp3Munson demonstrated how a text conversation through the Prepared Live service worked. All messages are cataloged in an incident file. She said if more assistance is required, the original information can be quickly and easily accessed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Prepared-Live-4.mp3At this time, both the Rawlins and Saratoga Police Departments are using a free trial version of Prepared Live. The trial version allows live video and picture sharing only with the dispatcher. Piping the video to responder’s phones requires another module, called Prepared On-scene. Rodabaugh said another unit allows real-time text language translation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Prepared-Live-5.mp3Access to the full suite of Prepared software can cost between $5,000 and $10,000 a year. Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris acknowledged the program was costly, but said the benefits are worth the price. With budget time right around the corner, both the Rawlins and Saratoga Police Departments will try to find the money to continue using the video sharing software.
April 20, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga’s Outdoor Pool – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga’s recreation director will step down from the position next month.
Sarah Laughlin has held the position of recreation director since November of 2021. At last night’s Saratoga town council meeting, Laughlin turned in her resignation. Her last day will be May 7th.
The Saratoga native has been preparing to open the town’s pool. She has hired a new pool director, who is undergoing certification in Cheyenne and is advertising for lifeguards. The pool opening date is scheduled for June 1st. Laughlin said any flooding that occurred would push the date back.
The recreation commission board is discussing lowering this year’s pool fees or offering resident discounts and family memberships.
Laughlin thanked the previous council for appointing her as rec director. She said she isn’t leaving the Valley and will continue to help in any way she can.
Laughlin said no specific reason triggered her resignation. She said her priorities have changed and she needed to focus on different aspects of her life.
The council reluctantly accepted Laughlin’s resignation letter. Mayor Chuck Davis and the other council members thanked Laughlin for her hard work. The council did not discuss Laughlin’s replacement.
April 19, 2023 |
Photo – Emergency Lights – Bigfoot99 file photo
A single-vehicle crash claimed the life of one person and injured four others Saturday afternoon near Riverside.
Few details have been made available about the crash that occurred about 10 miles east of Riverside on Wyoming 230. A vehicle with 4 people inside rolled over while traveling the highway. South Central Wyoming EMS Director Stayton Mosbey described the event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Riverside-Crash-1.mp3Mosbey confirmed one person was pronounced dead at the scene. The remaining three passengers were taken to area hospitals. The two most life-threatening cases were airlifted, one by helicopter and another via plane from Shively Field in Saratoga.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Riverside-Crash-2.mp3Mosbey said the most seriously injured victim was flown to an out-of-state specialty hospital.
The incident is under investigation by the Wyoming Highway Patrol. As such, Mosbey was unable to provide more details about the crash. He did confirm that the driver was from Saratoga.
The Highway Patrol has not released any details as of this writing, nor have they responded to calls for more information about the crash.
Sources tell Bigfoot99 the vehicle was traveling south toward the Colorado state line when the driver lost control. Weather is thought to be a contributing factor to the crash. Unconfirmed reports state two young children were in the car at the time.
Bigfoot99 will have more information as it becomes available.
April 19, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming Highway Patrol Patch – Bigfoot99 file photo
A vehicle that ran out of fuel on Interstate 80 near Rock Springs earlier this month resulted in a major drug bust.
The incident occurred Saturday evening, April 8, 2023. A Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper stopped to assist a stranded vehicle near milepost 133 between Wamsutter Rock Springs.
The trooper later reported smelling raw marijuana during the stop. The trooper became more suspicious during a conversation with the occupant of the vehicle about their travel plans.
A short time later, a second individual emerged from a nearby ditch and approached the vehicle and trooper. The second individual claimed he was not associated with the car but could provide a reasonable explanation about why it was out of gas in the middle of nowhere.
The trooper detained both parties, and a drug detection WHP K-9 (Becky) was deployed around the vehicle.
The resulting search produced thirteen Ziplock baggies of suspected methamphetamine, weighing approximately 11.5 pounds. Also found was 3.7 pounds of suspected marijuana, two THC vape cartridges, one pack of edibles, thirty-seven Adderall pills, and two thousand 2,186 Fentanyl M30 pills weighing approximately 185.3 grams. In addition to the street drugs, two stolen pistols were also found in the vehicle.
The names of the two suspects were not released. The investigation did produce information that they were traveling together. They were arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance plant form, controlled substance crystal form, controlled substance fentanyl, possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, and possession of the stolen property.
April 19, 2023 |
Photo – Wamsutter Conoco Tow Truck – Courtesy Wamsutter Conoco Services website
The son of a tow truck driver from Wamsutter, killed earlier in the month while helping a stranded motorist on the Interstate, has arranged a procession in honor of his deceased father.
At approximately 3:10 am, April 3rd, a semi-truck lost control on I-80, east of Wamsutter, and collided with Kirby Lugg. Lugg, 45, of Wamsutter, was recovering a vehicle from the median when he was struck by the truck. Lugg was taken to Memorial Hospital of Carbon County where he succumbed to his injuries. The semi-truck driver also died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Lugg’s son, Jeremey Mitchum, has arranged a celebration of life for his father this Saturday, April 22nd. The service will be held at the Desert School in Wamsutter at 11:00 am. Before the service begins, Mitchum is asking people to gather at the Carbon County Fairgrounds for a funerary procession.
Mitchum has asked people to arrive at the Fairgrounds at 9:30 Saturday morning. Afterwards, the procession will travel up Spruce Street and work its way to the Desert School in Wamsutter.
Kirby Lugg is survived by his wife, Shelia, and three children. Lugg and his wife were raising his grandson, CJ. To help her mother-in-law, Mitchum’s wife has created a GoFundMe in Lugg’s name. As of the reporting of this story, 167 people have contributed nearly $14,000 out of the requested $15,000.
April 19, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
The new fiscal year for local governments starts on July 1. Municipalities must submit their completed budgets to the Board of Carbon County Commissioners by June. Starting in early April, towns open the ledgers and see how much money is collected, called revenue, versus how much is spent, expenditures.
Last Tuesday, the Rawlins city council held its first budget work session. Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey said he was reviewing the previous year’s budget and he found a discrepancy. Last year’s budget contained a mistake where the city’s cash reserves were counted toward the city’s total budget. Sarvey said correcting the error put the city in the red.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Rawlins-Budget-1.mp3The problem, Sarvey said, was cash reserved for emergencies, or so called “rainy days,” was counted toward the amount of money the city collected. He said this puts the city $2 million in the negative heading into the 2024 fiscal year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Rawlins-Budget-2.mp3The budget is divided into two sections: general funds and proprietary funds. In short, general funds pay for the core duties of the government and proprietary funds are used for business-like activities, such as collecting landfill fees.
Sarvey said he noticed another issue with last year’s budget. Money earmarked for the general fund was being used in the enterprise fund, which is a major part of the city’s proprietary fund.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Rawlins-Budget-3.mp3Sarvey said the problem appeared to be related to city employees working in several different departments. He said some employee salaries are entirely paid for by the general fund, even if the employee spends time working with the sewer and water departments. Sarvey said part of the employee’s salary should come out of the enterprise fund. The interim city manager said the discrepancies total over $800,000 and he isn’t sure where the money went.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Rawlins-Budget-4.mp3Sarvey said most city employee salaries are divided among the appropriate departments. He said Public Works Director Cody Dill is paid from both the general fund and the enterprise fund. Twenty percent comes from the general fund, while the water and sewer departments contribute 40% each to the remaining 80%.
Sarvey said the city’s enterprise fund is not capable of covering the $800,000 deficit.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Rawlins-Budget-5.mp3Sarvey said his goal is to balance the budget heading into 2024. To make that a reality, Sarvey said the city will need to either find extra money or cut services.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0419_Rawlins-Budget-6.mp3Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller said city staff members are working on a plan to address the deficit. The next budget meeting will be held during the second week of May. Miller said staff will present their ideas at that time. Last Tuesday’s budget workshop was a place to begin the discussion and inform the council of where the city stands, financially.
April 18, 2023 |
Photo – Flooding in Elk Mountain – Courtesy Brett Larson Town of Elk Mountain
Elk Mountain experienced the first flood of the season.
Melting snow created a dam on the Hadsell Slough, a shallow river, which runs through the north part of town. Water overflowed the banks and flooded the immediate area. The Elk Mountain public works department worked with Wyoming Department of Transportation crews to reopen the slough and prevent more flooding.
Elk Mountain Cemetary District Commissioner Brett Larson witnessed the high water. He said he was alerted to the flooding on Sunday evening.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Elk-Mountain-Flooding-1.mp3Larson said it was “all hands on deck” to prevent more water from spilling out of the slough. He said sandbags and inflatable barriers were used to fight the flood in two separate locations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Elk-Mountain-Flooding-2.mp3Larson said he was out past midnight trying to contain the water. He said 7 or 8 homes were affected by the flood.
Despite the recent warmer weather, Elk Mountain still has several feet of snow in certain areas. The shallow Hadsell Slough had a covering of snow that collapsed into the water and created a dam. Larson explained how the shallow banks quickly overflowed and caused water to race into town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Elk-Mountain-Flooding-3.mp3Larson said it seemed like every time the town stopped the flooding in one area, another part of the slough would spill over. WYDOT and Elk Mountain public works crews have been fighting the heavy snow to open the slough back up.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Elk-Mountain-Flooding-4.mp3WYDOT Public Relations Specialist Andrea Staley said crews have the situation under control. She downplayed the severity of the flood.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Elk-Mountain-Flooding-5.mp3Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman agrees with Staley’s assessment. Layman is acting as Elk Mountain’s public information officer during the event. He said the town is comfortable handling the water using the resources it has on hand. Layman said there was, “No damage. Just wet yards”. The Emergency Manager said he is prepared to bring the full force of the county to bear, if things get out of hand.
Larson isn’t reassured by WYDOT or the Office of Emergency Management. He said so much water, this early in the season, is a sign of bad things to come.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Elk-Mountain-Flooding-6.mp3Larson provided pictures of the high water to Bigfoot99. Visit our Facebook page or bigfoot99.com to see the aftermath of the Hadsell Slough flood.
April 18, 2023 |
Photo – Drawing of Saratoga Highlands Condominium – Courtesy Jon Nelson
A former Saratoga councilman will add much-needed lower cost homes to the town.
During April’s Saratoga planning commission meeting, Jon Nelson of North Fork Engineering presented preliminary plans to construct a $10 million, two-building apartment complex south of Shively Field. Nelson explained to the commission where he wants to build the Saratoga Highlands Condominium Subdivision.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Saratoga-Highlands-1.mp3Nelson said the area was mapped out, or platted, for multi-family housing units in the early 2000’s. Only seven single-family homes have been built in the past two decades. Nelson said his apartment complex would add nearly 50 extra homes to town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Saratoga-Highlands-2.mp3According to the preliminary plans, each building will contain six one-bedroom units. The remainder of the floor space will be taken up by two-bedroom flats. Nelson said 12 of the 18 available two-bedroom apartments would be corner units. He said the corner units would have better views, but less square footage than the center suites.
Nelson said he would apply for permits for both buildings at the same time, but would only construct one, at first. He said he hopes to have the first condominium completed by next year. The second building would be constructed as needed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Saratoga-Highlands-3.mp3Nelson said the seven homes already on the site are part of a Homeowner’s Association, or HOA. He said the new condos will also contribute to the HOA for general maintenance and snow shoveling.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Saratoga-Highlands-4.mp3Nelson said the project is too early in the development to know if the units will be rented out or sold as individual condos. However, Nelson said he is aware of the town’s need for low-cost housing and will try to price the homes accordingly.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Saratoga-Highlands-5.mp3Nelson said the 48-unit Saratoga Highlands Condominium Subdivision has the potential to generate $2.4 million in property taxes over 15 years. Construction is slated to begin in 2024.
April 18, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming Water Development Logo – Courtesy wwdc.state.wy.us
Jason Mead is the new director of the Wyoming Water Development office. Governor Mark Gordon announced his selection on Monday.
Mead has served as Interim Director of the WWDO since December of 2021. He has worked in the field of water resources for more than 23 years, with his last 16 years of service with the state at the water development office.
Governor Gordon said in a statement that Mead has “demonstrated his experience and expertise throughout his time at the Water Development Office and in his role as Interim Director. These qualities will continue to be critical, as we face the challenges of Wyoming water users, going forward.”
The WWDO is involved with planning, selection, financing and construction, acquisition, and operation of water projects.
April 18, 2023 |
Photo – Town Mule Deer – Bigfoot99 file photo
Feeding deer does not make you a good person despite your good intentions.
Feeding mule deer could produce deadly results. To remind citizens of this fact, the Rawlins city council has invited a Wyoming Game and Fish representative to speak at tonight’s meeting.
Wyoming Game and Fish Wildlife Management Coordinator of the Lander Region Dylan Lutz explained what he will discuss during the city council meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Deer-Feeding-1.mp3Lutz said the city council asked Game and Fish to explain why people should leave the deer in town alone. He said the advice isn’t specific to Rawlins, however. Feeding high-carb food, such as corn and hay, to mule deer could cause a condition known as a Gut Bomb. Lutz explained how feeding the deer could cause the horrific condition.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Deer-Feeding-2.mp3Lutz said nothing people can feed the deer would be considered safe or healthy for the animals to consume. Lutz said no one has come up with a better food substitute than the sagebrush and other woody plants mule deer typically eat during winter.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Deer-Feeding-3.mp3Lutz said other cervids, such as elk, are better able to digest food typically provided by humans. Mule deer are unique in their inability to handle artificial feeding. Besides slowly poisoning the deer, Lutz said feeding the animals may have other unintended consequences. He said large groups of deer tend to spread illnesses, such as chronic wasting disease, and attract predators into town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Deer-Feeding-4.mp3Large numbers of deer can pose a danger to humans as well. The more animals around, the higher the likelihood of traffic strikes. Lutz said mule deer can also become very combative when defending a food source, increasing the likelihood of harming a person.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0418_Deer-Feeding-5.mp3Like most communities in Carbon County, Rawlins has a resident population of mule deer. According to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, the best thing you can do to help the animals is to leave them to their own devices.
April 17, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
Springtime brings with it warmer weather, melting snow, and budget meetings.
Municipalities in Carbon County must balance their budgets and prepare for the next fiscal year during the annual spring budget process.
During last Tuesday’s Rawlins budget planning workshop, Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey briefed the council on the city’s finances. Sarvey said the city has around $33 million spread over 25 bank accounts. He said the money is sitting idly and noted the capital is barely generating interest.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-1.mp3Sarvey said the city only made $72,500 in interest, last year. Goldman Sachs, a global investment group, offers a 13-month annual percentage yield of 3.75%. Sarvey said the city should be collecting far more interest money than it is.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-2.mp3Sarvey said the state’s newly adopted Amendment A, allows towns to invest funds in stocks and equities. Also known as the Local Government Stock Investing Amendment, it was passed on November 8th of last year. The interim city manager said the city could piggyback on state investments to generate even greater interest returns.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-3.mp3Sarvey said the state hasn’t opened its investment fund, WyoStar, to towns yet. Sarvey said he isn’t sure what kind of return the state was receiving on their investments, but that 4% may be on the low side.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-4.mp3Sarvey said the city needs to put procedures into place to support investments. He said they also should develop a system for predicting cash flow, so money doesn’t sit in low interest accounts. Sarvey said the city needs modern banking solutions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-5.mp3Vice Mayor Steve Sanger said the average 100-year return on a Standard & Poors stock is 10%. Sanger asked why the city should be happy with only 4%. Sarvey said the state investments have relatively low risk.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-6.mp3Sarvey said the debate on Amendment A, focused on whether towns have the right to play the stock market with public funds. Vice Mayor Sanger said investing in S&P stocks is a safe bet. He said compared to other states, Wyoming should be able to guarantee higher returns.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-7.mp3Sarvey said he wasn’t aware of the person the Vice Mayor was referring to, but he agreed that higher risk investments have the potential for higher returns. Mayor Terry Weickum said the state may be limited to low risk, low yield stocks to minimize loss. Vice Mayor Sanger said the state has the money to purchase higher risk stocks, which the city could benefit from.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-8.mp3The city must have a certain amount of quickly available, or liquid, cash on hand for emergencies. Sarvey said he has come up with a three-pronged investment strategy to ensure the city has both liquidity and larger interest payments.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-9.mp3Sarvey said short-term stocks would allow the city to access cash faster, but won’t generate as much interest as long-term investments. Vice Mayor Sanger asked what kind of return Sarvey was anticipating. The interim city manager said if the city split its $33 million up in a certain way, returns could be above 4%.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-10.mp3Councilman Chris Weisenburg said any percentage is better than what the city is receiving now. Sarvey said he considers the amount of return the state is getting to be good. Councilman Weisenburg said switching banking techniques is an easy choice.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0417_Low-Interest-11.mp3Sarvey said the city needs to alter the way it handles money, as soon as possible. He said he anticipates a quick and easy change. The interim city manager said he already added about $240,000 more, in interest payments, into next year’s budget.
April 17, 2023 |
Photo – Bridge in Elk Mountain – Courtesy Trip Advisor
Spring flooding has come early to Elk Mountain. A slough behind the town broke out of its banks, Sunday. Town resident Brett Larson tells Bigfoot 99 the slough broke out of its banks and was running into town streets. Houses and structures have been impacted, according to Larson’s report. Diverting the water was the top priority, Sunday night. Town workers, with the help of residents, worked late into the night. Laying sandbags and constructing aqueducts in an attempt to divert the water.
Local and state crews were on the scene Monday morning, after other breakouts apparently occurred.
April 17, 2023 |
Photo – New Logo for Carbon County Visitor’s Council – Courtesy CCVC
The Carbon County Visitor’s Council has a new website and logo.
To entice more visitors to experience the beauty of our area, the Carbon County Visitor’s Council has undergone a rebranding. Gone is the old “Get Your West On” slogan and red text box saying, “Carbon County WY.” In its place is a white rectangle with Carbon County written in dark gray and the outline of a mountain. “Discover Wyoming,” is written in light blue above and below the gray text.
According to Carbon County Visitor’s Council Chief Executive Officer Leslie Jefferson the rebranding is meant to attract visitors to “Discover Carbon County Wyoming” and all it has to offer. Jefferson said people should experience the outdoor recreation opportunities, historic past, mineral hot springs, scenic drives, and wide-open spaces of Carbon County.
CCVC’s new logo was designed by Danny Burau over the course of five months. The finalized design was chosen in January of this year.
While the logo was undergoing a complete redesign, the Visitor’s Council website was being overhauled as well.
Jefferson said the new website was created by a company called Waves Web Design. With the new logo in place, the web design company created new artwork and a new tagline, “Adventure Out.”
Go to the Carbon County Visitor’s council website at www.wyomingcarboncounty.com to view the new artwork. Or visit the CCVC office in Rawlins, at 105 East Cedar Street.
Adventure Out and Discover Carbon County, Wyoming!
April 17, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming Weed & Pest Logo – Courtesy wyoweed.org
Lindsey Woodward of Hot Springs County was announced as the new Weed and Pest Program Coordinator for the Wyoming Department of Agriculture.
Woodward will represent the WY Deptartment of Agriculture in coordinating WWPC’s activities and assisting individual districts in the development of management programs. She will also organize federal, state grant programs, and assist districts in managing noxious weeds and pests.
Prior to being named to the new position with the state, Woodward served as the District Supervisor of Hot Springs County Weed and Pest. There she oversaw substantial programs for invasive weed, grasshopper, and mosquito control.
Woodward takes over for Slade Franklin, who had been in the position since 2004.
April 17, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming Freedom Caucus Logo – Courtesy Facebook
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus is launching a political action committee. The conservative group announced the creation of WY Freedom Pac, Saturday in Casper, at a town hall meeting.
Officially formed a week ago on April 8, documents filed with the Secretary of State’s office in Cheyenne, show that Karen Drost of Weston County chairs the committee. Drost chairs the Weston County Republican Party.
The formation of the PAC marks a milestone on the group’s stated mission of adding ten more lawmakers in the Wyoming House.
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus added five new members last year, with the newly elected lawmakers just concluding their first terms.
Their new political muscle flexed on a bill to ban crossover voting, which was sponsored by Freedom Caucus Vice Chair Jeremy Haroldson. The bill became law after similar bills had failed to reach the finish line in previous sessions.
The victory means voters will have to choose their party ticket in the primary election before knowing which candidates have filed.
A bill banning abortions, sponsored by Freedom Caucus member Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams of Cody, also became law. Its enforcement is blocked temporarily by a Teton County judge, after a group of Teton County medical providers and women filed a lawsuit challenging the law’s constitutionality.
The Freedom Caucus was outnumbered in the legislature on other bill, though. An effort to defund the University of Wyoming’s gender studies program failed. Speaker of the House Albert Sommers used his leadership leverage to derail other bills from the Freedom Caucus bills not to his liking.
Event goers said Saturday’s gathering in Casper marks the beginning of the caucus’ statewide tour.
April 17, 2023 |
Photo – Baby Buggy – Bigfoot99 file photo
New parents in Wyoming chose Noah as the top name of male babies born in 2022. According to Vital Statistic Services, a division of the Wyoming Department of Health, the top female name last year was Charlotte.
Noah and Charlotte, followed by Henry and Olivia. Hudson and Hazel were the third-place names.
Guy Beaudoin, VSS deputy state registrar with WDH, said, many babies are honored with names passed down through their families. Other influences on name choices can include currently popular movies, television shows, musicians, and celebrities.
In 2022, 6,050 babies were born in Wyoming down slightly from the 6,236 born in 2021 after the 2020 social lockdowns following the coronavirus scare.
April 14, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Saratoga Planning Commission is considering different ways to tackle the town’s lack of budget-friendly housing and abundance of abandoned properties.
It’s no secret that Saratoga has an affordable housing problem. New home construction isn’t keeping pace with how fast the town is growing. Homes that end up on the real estate market are often priced out of reach for the average worker. During Tuesday’s Planning Commission meeting, members McCall Burau, Kathy Glode, and Mayor Chuck Davis brainstormed ways to address the issue.
Planning Commission Chairwoman Burau said a former member of the planning board had reached out to a representative from the United States Department of Agriculture about grant opportunities for cost-effective homes. The North Platte Valley Medical Center is partially funded by the USDA and the rep is expected to be in town to attend the grand opening on May 12th. The former planning commission member was attempting to meet with the USDA rep before abruptly quitting the planning commission. The plan is now in limbo and Burau said she wasn’t sure how to proceed.
Mayor Davis said he has spoken to Senator Cynthia Lummis’s office and learned that USDA funding may not be what the planning commission chairwoman expected, anyway.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Saratoga-Housing-1.mp3A shortage of affordable housing isn’t unique to Saratoga. The entire country is experiencing a severe lack of low-cost homes for working-class people. The Great Recession of 2008 brought new construction to a halt. The market still hasn’t completely recovered. The lack of available homes has driven the median price of a house up by nearly 54% from 2010 to 2019. Mayor Davis said Senator Lummis’s staff informed him that the federal government has been unsuccessfully trying to find a solution.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Saratoga-Housing-2.mp3Burau said the town’s 2016 Comprehensive Master Plan mentioned a lack of opportunities for senior citizens to age in place. Without lower priced houses available, seniors have few options for downsizing to smaller homes as they age. Burau suggested the planning commission investigate if the community would support subsidized housing for seniors.
Bryan Drake, owner of Triple D Construction, said he attempted to build subsidized senior housing, but he faced resistance to the project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Saratoga-Housing-3.mp3Burau said the median income for a family of four in Carbon County is $80,000. In Saratoga the median household income is less, around $62,000. Affordable housing cannot cost more than one-third of a family’s average monthly wage. Burau asked what type of government assistance could be used to incentivize builders to stay within that price point. Drake said the entire process is extremely complicated.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Saratoga-Housing-4.mp3Subsidized housing and government grants may not be the best solution to Saratoga’s low-cost housing shortage. Burau said an easier path may be to focus on remediating abandoned properties. If the town can convince people to sell their vacant and dilapidated homes for a low price, they could sell the land to developers, opening the door for new and more affordable construction.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Saratoga-Housing-5.mp3Planning Commission member Glode said if the town can get people to sell their blighted property for cheap, they could entice developers with the land. Burau asked what the town could offer to convince builders to keep the cost of construction down. Mayor Davis and Drake said the town cannot legally give the land to anyone.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Saratoga-Housing-6.mp3It is illegal for the town to sell land to a private individual for less than the appraised value. The town is obligated to auction off any land to the highest bidder.
Burau said encouraging abandoned property owners to either sell or clean up their land would be the best course of action. Buying the land outright would allow for new construction and having the owner address their yard waste would make Saratoga look better.
Mayor Davis asked how many properties in town were considered abandoned. Drake said a local realtor told him 17 properties fit the description.
Burau and Glode said having a dedicated zoning enforcement officer would allow the town to easily address blighted lots. Saratoga hasn’t had a full-time zoning officer since 2020. The job has been intermittently handled by local contractors since that time. Mayor Davis said he is unwilling to hire a new full-time zoning officer because the money would be better spent on necessary improvements and repairs.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Saratoga-Housing-7.mp3Mayor Davis said he would like to fold the zoning enforcement officer’s duties into the public works director position. The previous public works director, Jon Winter, resigned last October and the town has begun to advertise for his replacement.
Mayor Davis said a zoning officer doesn’t have the authority to issue citations for non-conforming properties. Only the police department may write tickets, and only if they are instructed to do so by the mayor.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Saratoga-Housing-8.mp3The planning commission settled on sending letters to the owners of abandoned or blighted properties, asking them to clean up their land. Mayor Davis asked Burau to draft the letter and he would approve it. Burau asked about the legality of a targeted letter. Mayor Davis said the town has the authority to do so.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Saratoga-Housing-9.mp3If an abandoned property owner refuses to address the violations in the letter, it would pave the way for the town to condemn any structures on the land.
The idea of a Saratoga Clean Up day, where residents would work together to remove trash and debris from the town, was discussed. Coincidentally, during the planning commission meeting, the Upper Platte River Solid Waste Disposal District released a flier advertising free landfill access during the first weekend of May. Mayor Davis said Councilwoman Kathy Beck was planning a community-wide cleaning event. However, he said no date has been set.
April 14, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Water Treatment Plant – Bigfoot99 file photo
Despite the big snowstorms and higher than average snowpack, the City of Rawlins is forecasting more water restrictions this spring and summer.
The city has been in a drought for 22 years. In the last few years, restrictions on water usage, such as lawn watering, were put in place to protect the overworked springs that supply the city with water.
A press release issued by the city, yesterday, states water restrictions may be in effect this summer despite snowpack at the Sage Creek Basin being 203% above average. Not all the snow-melt will end up in the water supply.
Depending on how the spring thaw goes, much of the water may run off the still frozen earth and not seep into the ground. Also, the pipes running from the Sage Creek spring boxes into the city are prone to leaking and some water could be lost during transport.
The press release also mentions work on the pre-treatment plant is moving along more slowly than expected.
As reported earlier this week by Bigfoot99, a crucial water control valve needs to be replaced and an alternative won’t be available until later this month. When the replacement valve is installed, the city will perform a wet run on the pre-treatment plant. The test is expected to occur during the first week of May.
The city lowered the water in its storage tanks in preparation for the pre-treatment plant’s wet run. Normal water usage could drain the tanks even more if the pre-treatment plant isn’t up and running on schedule. Additional water restrictions would then be put into effect to avoid water shortages and boil advisories.
By the middle of May, the city expects to have a better idea of what the summer water supply will look like. It is likely water usage will be less restricted in the spring and early summer, with more strict regulations coming later in the year.
Rawlins officials are planning a town hall meeting in late May or early June to discuss the water situation with the public.
Mira Miller, public information officer for the city, told Bigfoot 99 that water tank levels are lower than average this week to prepare for the pretreatment plant wet run. Staff is monitoring tank levels to maintain a safe level. Miller said if the public usage hits high levels earlier than normal, refilling the tanks may take longer than normal.
Residents can monitor tank levels online at the city of Rawlins website at www.rawlinswy.gov/water.
For more information, please call the Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller at (307)328-4500 extension 1022.
April 14, 2023 |
Photo – Left to Right: Cooper Smith, Helen Feagin, and Tye Tanachion – Courtesy Western Wyoming Community College
A student from Carbon County School District #2 is bound for the national spelling bee in Washington, DC.
Saratoga Middle/High School student Cooper Smith beat out a field of around 25 other competitors earlier this month to become the Wyoming State Spelling Bee champion. His winning word was “Evaporation.” Smith said he had a great time during the competition.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Spelling-Bee-1.mp3With his victory, the 12-year-old is heading to Washington D.C to participate in the 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee.
Held at the Western Wyoming Community College in Rock Springs, the Wyoming State Spelling Bee occurred on April 1st. Smith said he practiced with his parents to prepare for the state competition. The winning speller said he had an enormous list of words to memorize.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Spelling-Bee-2.mp3Smith admitted he didn’t commit the entire list to memory. Apparently, his preparations paid off, though. Smith won the $4,000 cash prize. He said the prize money will be used to fly him and his family to our nation’s capital at the end of May. Smith said his family and friends are thrilled by his victory.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Spelling-Bee-3.mp3The Scripps National Spelling Bee brings the best lexicographers from across the county to compete on the national stage. Smith said he knows his competition will be fierce. He said he’ll spend just about all his free time, between now and the competition, practicing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0414_Spelling-Bee-4.mp3When he isn’t poring over his dictionary, Smith said he enjoys playing video games on his PlayStation 5.
Smith will compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee at the Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. The event is held from May 30th to June 1st. The winner takes home a $50,000 cash prize.
April 14, 2023 |
Photo – Boat Dock at Lake Meeboer – Courtesy WY Game and Fish Facebook page
Snow may be in the forecast today and tomorrow, but spring is coming—and along with it, boating season. In the Laramie area, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is in the process of putting boat docks back into local waters. Docks are removed during the winter season to extend their longevity and undergo routine maintenance.
Over the next couple weeks, boat docks will return to Grayrocks Reservoir, Wheatland Reservoir #1 and the Laramie Plains Lakes (Lakes Hattie, Meeboer, Gelatt and Diamond).
According to a department news release, if the weather conditions cooperate, Game and Fish aims to have all docks back in the water by April 21st—in time for fishing next weekend.
April 13, 2023 |
Photo – Air BnB house in Saratoga – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga’s Planning Commission is undecided on how best to handle short-term rental properties.
Online short-term rental companies, such as Air BnB and Vrbo, have become increasingly popular over the past few years. With more homes in residential neighborhoods being converted to rentals, Saratoga’s Planning Commission Chairwoman McCall Burau asked if action was needed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Toga-Rentals-1.mp3Burau said she wasn’t clear what problem a short-term rental permitting process would solve. She said the town ordinance, a property owner might be violating, is operating a hotel in a non-business zone.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Toga-Rentals-2.mp3Burau said the community’s main concern is, given the tight real estate market in Saratoga, converting homes to short-term rentals limits the number of permanent residents. Burau said she doesn’t think the town has the right to regulate private property.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Toga-Rentals-3.mp3Mayor Chuck Davis said he agrees regulation isn’t the answer. He said a permitting process, similar to the town’s food truck ordinance, might help keep track of how many short-term rental properties are operating.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Toga-Rentals-4.mp3As of the reporting of this story, Saratoga has approximately 42 short-term rental properties.
A certain percentage of Saratoga residents live in town only during summer months. The rest of the year, their homes sit vacant. Mayor Davis said they should have a right to rent their properties when they aren’t in use. He said he does, however, have a problem with businesses buying multiple houses specifically to be used for short-term rentals.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Toga-Rentals-5.mp3Jon Nelson, of North Fork Engineering, said the town does not have enough hotel rooms to support the large numbers of visitors, Saratoga sees on some weekends. He said short-term rentals provide additional beds.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Toga-Rentals-6.mp3Mayor Davis said short-term rentals may make affordable homes less available, but the town doesn’t have a right to dictate what a person does with their property. Burau said permitting and regulation may not be the answer. However, a time may come when short-term renters outnumber permanent residents.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Toga-Rentals-7.mp3In the end, no plan was agreed upon. Burau said she will do more research and bring additional ideas to the next planning commission meeting on May 10th.
April 13, 2023 |
Photo – Upper Platte River Solid Waste Disposal District Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
Check the calendar. The time is now for spring cleaning in the Platte Valley. To beautify the area and clean up all the junk that accumulated over the winter, the Upper Platte River Solid Waste Disposal District is offering residents a weekend of free landfill access.
Every spring, the UPRSWDD allows residents of Saratoga, Encampment, and Riverside to bring their non-construction waste to their local landfill and drop it off for free. Upper Platte River Solid Waste Disposal District Chairman Randy Raymer said the event has occurred every year for as long as he can remember.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Valley-Clean-up-Days-1.mp3During the first weekend of May, registered landfill users can drop off household refuse, appliances, tires, and non-functional automobiles at the Saratoga and Encampment landfills for no additional cost. Stipulations apply, however. Residents are limited to four tires, without rims, of up to 18 inches. Junk cars and trucks must be drained of all fluids and have the wheels removed. Also, refrigerators and air conditioners must be labeled as “Freon Free.”
Raymer said removal of the refrigerant used to be a profitable business. Freon has been banned in the US since 2020 and no new appliances have been manufactured since 2010 that use the chemical.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Valley-Clean-up-Days-2.mp3Raymer said people tend to hold onto larger items because they don’t want to pay an additional fee at the landfill. He said the annual Clean Up Days gives residents an incentive to throw away that garbage.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Valley-Clean-up-Days-3.mp3Raymer said to call the UPVSWDD at 307-329-8183 if you are physically unable to haul refuse to the landfill. He said the town’s public works employees will come by to assist.
The annual Clean Up Days in the Valley are Friday, May 5th and Saturday, May 6th in Saratoga. Normally closed on Sunday, Encampment’s landfill will be open an extra day during the Clean Up Days to accommodate residents. Saturday, May 6th and Sunday, May 7th are free for Encampment and Riverside. All construction debris will be charged as normal. The free landfill offer is only for non-commercial items.
April 13, 2023 |
Photo – Map of Pacificorp Gateway West Transmission Project – Courtesy Pacificorp
Construction of a high-power electrical line through the northern end of Carbon County has stalled because of incomplete paperwork.
Pacificorp, the largest power grid operator in the West, is constructing new electrical transmission lines through Wyoming. The Gateway West Transmission Project calls for 20-miles of power lines to be built in Carbon County. Along with new lines, Pacificorp is upgrading the electrical substation in the Shirley Basin.
In February of 2021, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners granted Pacificorp a conditional use permit for the project. Planning Director Sarah Brugger said the permit had a two-year expiration date.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-1.mp3The conditional use permit required Pacificorp to begin any actual building construction in Carbon County within a two-year time limit. Brugger said she received building permit requests from other construction companies, but nothing from Pacificorp. The permit expired on February 22nd, 2023.
Brugger said the deadline associated with the project could have been extended at the commissioner’s discretion, but an extension request needed to be submitted 90 days before the permit ended. No extension request was filed by Pacificorp. Brugger said County Attorney Ashley Davis told the company their permit was overdue. Only then, Brugger said, did Pacificorp ask for an extension.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-2.mp3Brugger said the county has never granted an extension after a permit has expired. Pacificorp Director of Project Delivery Brandon Smith said he knew about the expiration date. While no physical construction has begun in Carbon County, Smith said his company has done surveys and other engineering work. He said he assumed the terms of the conditional use permit were satisfied.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-3.mp3Smith said his company is engaged in construction north of Carbon County. He said with a renewed conditional use permit, construction could begin here in about a month. Commissioner John Johnson said the county is unable to grant an extension on a permit that no longer exists.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-4.mp3The county would need to amend its policies to allow for an extension after the fact, a process that would take several months. Commissioner Johnson said without an amended zoning policy, the county is unable to legally lengthen the time limit on the permit. Attorney Davis agreed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-5.mp3The conditional use permit for the Gateway West transmission line through Carbon County states physical construction must begin within two years of issuance. Smith reiterated that he thought the preliminary survey work done in the county fulfilled the stipulations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-6.mp3Commissioner Johnson asked the Planning Director to read the conditional use permit policy. Brugger read from section 7.7-H of the county’s zoning policy which governs the expiration of conditional use permits.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-7.mp3Brugger said the issuance of a building permit is the only real way her staff has of tracking the progress of a conditional use permit. Commissioner Johnson said he understands a power transmission line requires permitting in multiple counties. He said he is sympathetic to Pacificorp’s issue, but he doesn’t think more discussion will change the fact that the permit has already expired.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-8.mp3Brugger said she didn’t notice the permit had expired until early March. Attorney Davis brought it to Pacificorp’s attention, and the company requested an extension on March 31st. Smith took responsibility for being a month and a half late. He said he could have done a better job of informing the county of what his company was working on.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-9.mp3The commissioners agreed that the conditional use permit had expired. Therefore, they are unable to grant an extension. The only way forward would be for Pacificorp to reapply for a new conditional use permit and go through the entire process again. Brugger said a new permit could take up to six months.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-10.mp3The best-case scenario would be 3 months. However, Brugger said she cannot guarantee a specific timeframe. She said it depends on when the application is received and how long it takes to review. Any errors on the application would delay the process. Public hearings would need to be scheduled as required by the county’s zoning resolution. Commissioner John Espy said Pacificorp should be able to simply copy and paste its previous application. Commissioner Johnson said that it should save time.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-11.mp3Brugger said the application must be advertised in local newspapers for 30 days before a public hearing can be held. Afterwards, another two weeks of advertising must be done before the matter could be taken up with the county’s planning and zoning commission. Brugger said June would be the earliest the planning commission could visit the permit request. Assuming the request was accepted, the matter would have to be voted on during the next Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting.
Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones said the rules must be enforced consistently and equally among the various construction companies that do business in the county. She said Pacificorp has not met the requirements of the conditional use permit and must begin the process again.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0413_Expired-Permit-12.mp3The commissioners were apologetic, but said the rules needed to be followed. They concluded that Pacificorp did not satisfy the conditions of the original permit and must reapply.
April 13, 2023 |
Photo – Scripps National Spelling Bee Logo – Courtesy Scripps National Spelling Bee
Cooper Smith, a sixth grader from Saratoga, will represent Wyoming at the Scripps National Spelling Bee late next month in Washington, DC.
Smith won the Wyoming State Spelling Bee, held in early April, at Western Wyoming Community College.
In addition to serving as Wyoming’s representative, Smith also received a one-year subscription to Britannica Online Premium, a one-year subscription to Merriam-Webster Unabridged Online Certificate, as well as the Samuel Louis Sugarman Award, consisting of a 2023 US Mint Proof Set, according to the release. Smith also received a $4,000 cash prize from the Sweetwater Board of Cooperative Educational Services, which also sponsored and produced the bee, to help cover the expenses of traveling to Washington for the national bee.
April 12, 2023 |
Photo – Corbett Medical Building – Bigfoot99 file photo
Valley Village Childcare is preparing to move into the Corbett Medical Building after the Platte Valley Clinic relocates into the North Platte Valley Medical Center. Valley Village Vice-Chairperson Ellie Dana asked the Saratoga town council to waive the town’s normal building permit fees due to extensive deferred maintenance costs.
The grand opening of the North Platte Valley Medical Center is set for the end of April. When the hospital opens, the Platte Valley Clinic will move from the Corbett Medical Building, on South River Street, into the new hospital building. At that time, Village Board of Directors will begin the overdue maintenance to Corbett Medical Building.
The Corbett Medical Building was gifted to the town in 1994, with the stipulation it would to be used to benefit the community. In recent years, the town chose not to address maintenance issues.
Dana said the building requires hundreds of thousands of dollars in repairs. To avoid paying to bring the building back up to code, Dana and the town came to an agreement; sell the building to Valley Village Childcare for $1.
Earlier this year, the Corbett Foundation and the Saratoga town council approved the sale. Ownership transferred in February.
At last Tuesday’s town council meeting, Dana asked the council to waive the usual building permit fees. She said her organization will perform the maintenance the town deferred, for decades.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0412_Valley-Village-1.mp3The building permit fee is $948.10.
Dana said the Platte Valley Clinic will move out the last week of April. Construction can begin the following week. Dana said before Valley Village Childcare and Excel Preschool can move into the building, major renovations must occur.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0412_Valley-Village-2.mp3The plan to move Valley Village Childcare and Excel Preschool into the Corbett Medical Building began last year. In September, Dana approached the town council and asked to lease the building, but negotiations stalled when it became clear massive renovations would be needed.
Despite setbacks, the town council remained supportive of Dana’s plan. She expressed her appreciation and said a benefactor has agreed to a large fund-raising match.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0412_Valley-Village-3.mp3Mayor Chuck Davis said he supports Dana’s request. He said the town has waived the building permit fees for other projects that benefit the community.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0412_Valley-Village-4.mp3Mayor Davis asked for a motion to approve waiving the $948 building permit fee for Valley Village Childcare. Councilwoman Kathy Beck made the motion and Councilman Jerry Fluty seconded. The motion carried.
April 12, 2023 |
Photo – North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo
With spring flooding becoming a growing concern, Carbon County’s Office of Emergency Management is preparing for the worst. Emergency Manager Lenny Layman has asked towns to adopt a pre-written emergency declaration document. Layman said the declaration isn’t just for flooding. It also allows towns to request outside assistance from the county during any type of emergency.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0412_Flood-Planning-1.mp3According to an information release from the Emergency Management office, municipalities should issue an emergency declaration if a 25% chance of a severe event is possible. Layman said the emergency declaration serves as a useful reminder to inform the Office of Emergency Management of any potential disasters because an emergency could occur that he doesn’t know about.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0412_Flood-Planning-2.mp3Layman said he is working with flood prone municipalities to create an action plan should flooding occur. Of the 10 towns in Carbon County, Layman said five of them have strategies to combat high water.
As of this week, Layman said only the Town of Saratoga has agreed to use the emergency declaration document. Layman said he is confident the remaining nine towns in Carbon County will follow suit.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0412_Flood-Planning-3.mp3Layman said he will have regular calls with the National Weather Service to see what conditions are predicted to look like each week. With snow packs far above average for this time of year, flooding appears likely. Layman said he is not going to wait for towns to issue flood emergency declarations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0412_Flood-Planning-4.mp3Layman said the emergency declaration documents are not only for flooding. Any event, that could result in significant property damage or is a threat to human life, constitutes an emergency. Layman said once he receives a signed emergency document, he will go directly to the Board of Carbon County Commissioners. If the county is unable to mitigate the problem, the commissioners will sign a county emergency declaration and request outside resources. For example, the county declared an emergency during last month’s heavy snow. Afterwards, the county was able to request a specialized tracked rescue vehicle from the state at no cost.
Layman said having a pre-written emergency declaration from the towns, allows him to already have a plan in place with the appropriate government agency. He said more time means improved planning.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0412_Flood-Planning-5.mp3Layman said it doesn’t cost the county anything to declare an emergency and end up not needing outside assistance.
April 12, 2023 |
Photo – Mule Deer – Bigfoot99 file photo
In northern Colorado, big game animals have been struggling to survive the late spring storms just as their counterparts are in southern Wyoming.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife Area Wildlife Manager Kris Middledorf said last week that the mortality rate for deer, elk and pronghorn across Northwest Colorado will likely be high this winter due to abundant snow. Officials are especially concerned about the heavy snow late in the season at lower elevations, where the animals normally find winter refuge and food.
As Wyoming big game officials did this week, Parks and Wildlife staff have proposed large reductions in Colorado hunting licenses this year. The State Parks and Wildlife Commission must still approve any rule changes.
Mortality is expected to be high this year in Colorado. State Wildlife Manager Kris Middledorf said district wildlife managers in Routt County “have euthanized or picked up more dead animals this winter than any of the past winters” since 2016.
The biggest concern in northern Colorado is for mule deer fawn. A collaring study shows 35-40% of the fawns may survive to adulthood compared to the normal rate of 64%. The average survival rate for an adult doe is 82%.
Colorado wildlife officials say they have seen an increase in mortality rate since mid-March when the big spring snows came.
April 12, 2023 |
Photo – TransWest Express LLC Electrical Line – Courtesy TransWest Express web-site
The Power Company of Wyoming received final federal approval Tuesday to begin building a massive transmission line that will deliver wind energy from here in Carbon County to California.
The “notice to proceed” from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management allows TransWest Express LLC to break ground on its $3 billion line after more than 15 years of development.
About two-thirds of the project will be on federal lands.
The BLM said in a statement that its approval of the 732-mile TransWest Express is part of an effort to achieve a “carbon-free electric grid by 2035.”
Billionaire Philip Anschutz owns TransWest Express. A separate Anschutz firm owns the 600-turbine Chokecherry and Sierra Madre wind farm south of Rawlins and west of Saratoga, which is under construction. Once built, the wind energy plant will send electricity westward through TransWest Express.
Construction on TranWest Express will start later this year. The first stage will be completed in 2027, the company said. The line will run from south central Wyoming here in Carbon County, through Colorado, Utah, and Nevada to a substation outside of Las Vegas.
April 11, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall -Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga has chosen OV Consulting, an engineering firm, to develop the town’s sidewalk master plan.
Planning Commission member McCall Burau provided an update on the creation of a Transportation Alternatives Program master plan at last Tuesday’s town council meeting. Burau said she advertised for contractors to put together the plan and received five offers. Using a Wyoming Department of Transportation approved scoring matrix, Burau and the other members of the planning commission selected OV Consulting. The group says the firm best meets the needs of the community.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Saratoga-Walkway-1.mp3In 2016, Saratoga officials compiled a list of needed improvements called the Comprehensive Master Plan. A lack of sidewalks was one deficiency identified in the study.
Last year, Burau saw a need for a paved walkway from the center of Saratoga to the supermarket on the south end of town. Burau took it upon herself to apply for a WYDOT grant to build the sidewalk. She said she was informed the application would likely be denied if the town didn’t have a more encompassing walkway plan.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Saratoga-Walkway-2.mp3The town council voted to approve $20,000 for the grant match in October.
Burau said the next step is for OV Consulting to provide a draft agreement, outlining the scope of their work to WYDOT. If the WYDOT grant committee approves the agreement, the town and OV Consulting can begin the process.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Saratoga-Walkway-3.mp3Burau said the consulting firm would handle the planning phase of the TAP master plan. She explained to the town council what OV Consulting would accomplish.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Saratoga-Walkway-4.mp3The consulting firm will hold three public meetings during the design process. The first meeting, approximately two months into the project, will take public comments on what the pathway system should look like.
Two months later, a second public workshop would be used to further refine the scope of the project and determine what is realistically possible using the available funds.
About a year from the beginning of the project, the final public meeting will occur. During this workshop, people will be given a better understanding of the project and will be asked for last-minute recommendations.
When the public meetings are finished, OV Consulting will bring a finalized plan to the town council. Burau said the plan will be broken up into phases, with the first phase addressing the most important items.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Saratoga-Walkway-5.mp3Burau said the finished document will represent what residents want to see in the TAP master plan. With a detailed cost estimate for the project, the town would be able to set aside money and apply for future grants.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Saratoga-Walkway-6.mp3Burau said OV Consulting was selected because of their desire to get to know the townspeople and learn about Saratoga. Aside from the three public meetings, Burau said the consulting firm would like to participate in other town events.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Saratoga-Walkway-7.mp3Burau said the entire OV Consulting team is located within three and a half hours of Saratoga. One member of the team, Delbert McOmie, has more than 40 years of experience working with WYDOT. Burau said his skills have already made a difference.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Saratoga-Walkway-8.mp3Burau said the consulting firm comes highly recommended by people familiar with what the town is attempting to do. If approved by WYDOT, work could begin on the TAP master plan as soon as next month.
April 11, 2023 |
Photo – Damaged Bulldozer – Courtesy Kelly Brandt of Mass Grading
A Rawlins man, Justin Leroy Clark, is under arrest for multiple acts of vandalism also known as felony property destruction.
The three incidents, all involving broken glass, occurred recently in Rawlins. Police Chief Mike Ward said the suspect was arrested on Sunday.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Rawlins-Vandalism-1.mp3The bulldozer, a rented 2022 Caterpillar D3, was being used by Mass Grading LLC to level a building pad near City Market. Mass Grading’s owner, Kelly Brandt said the bulldozer was parked behind the supermarket after work was finished on Friday, March 31st. Brandt said an employee informed him of the damage that weekend.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Rawlins-Vandalism-2.mp3Fortunately, Norco Industrial, a gas supply company, had a camera pointed directly at Brandt’s equipment. Brandt said after two days of reviewing the footage, Norco employees showed him a video of Clark committing the crime.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Rawlins-Vandalism-3.mp3Brandt said no personal belongings or items of personal value were in the bulldozer for Clark to steal.
Last Thursday, April 6th, Rawlins PD received a call of broken glass at Bomgaars, next door to City Market. Chief Ward said despite the appearance of a burglary, nothing had been stolen.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Rawlins-Vandalism-4.mp3Brandt said the video taken from Norco Industrial’s cameras clearly showed Clark exiting and entering his house. Rawlins Police arrested Clark and charged him with the damage to Brandt’s bulldozer, Bomgaar’s windows, and a nearby vehicle.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0411_Rawlins-Vandalism-5.mp3Property damage of more than $999 is considered a felony. Brandt said the two broken bulldozer windows cost $1,100 each, plus installation. Chief Ward said the vehicle damage was considered a misdemeanor.
Chief Ward said Clark’s motives for the vandalism are unknown. As of the reporting of this story, Clark’s charging documents had not been entered into the system. They should be available later today.
Clark appeared before Judge Dawnessa Snyder in Carbon County Circuit Court and is charged with one count each of felony and misdemeanor property destruction. Clark is being held in county jail on $5,000 cash or commercial bond.
April 11, 2023 |
Photo – Pick Bridge on the North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo
The real impacts of the March and April snows are yet to be felt, but preliminary numbers indicate a big spring runoff is coming.
The April forecasts from the Bureau of Reclamation indicate the spring snowmelt runoff will be above average for the North Platte River Basin.
Total April through July runoff in the above Glendo Dam is expected to be 1.15-million-acre-feet, which the Bureau reports is 125% of the 30-year average.
The total conservation storage capacity of the North Platte Reservoir System is approximately 2,815,800 acre-feet. As of March 31, 2023, the combined storage content in the North Platte Reservoirs was 1,310,200 acre-feet, which is 76% of the 30-year average.
Current releases are 530 cubic feet per second (cfs) from Seminoe Reservoir through the Miracle Mile. Releases out of Gray Reef Reservoir are 450 cfs. Releases from Glendo and Guernsey Reservoir are expected to begin by mid-April.
Based on current projections for the months of May, June, and July, the releases out of Seminoe Reservoir are expected to peak at around 2,600 cfs, while flows out of Gray Reef are expected to be in the range of 1,200 to 3,000 cfs. Releases from Guernsey will be in the 2,000 to 5,000 cfs range. Pathfinder Reservoir is not expected to spill this spring.
Based on the current water forecast, the Bureau said an allocation—or a call on river users– is not expected for North Platte Project contractors.
April 11, 2023
Photo – White House – Bigfoot99 file photo
Wyoming has joined an 18-state coalition that has pledged to fight the Biden Administration’s environmental, social, and corporate governance agenda.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is leading the coalition.
The coalition argues President Joe Biden’s ESG agenda is “destabilizing the American economy and the global financial system.”
At stake are state retirement systems and other investment funds. Fund managers for the state systems reject the left-leaning social change orientation of ESG and instead focus on obtaining the highest return on investment.
The multi-state coalition pledged to fight the administration ESG policies after 25 state attorneys general sued the administration over them in January.
In a joint statement issued Thursday, the governors said President Biden has “put his political agenda above the well-being and individual freedoms of hardworking Americans.”
The Biden rule risks the pensions of thousands of hard-working Americans, the state states argue, instead of “prioritizing investment decisions on the highest rate of return.”
The lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court Northern District Amarillo Division named Secretary of Labor Martin Walsh and the U.S. Department of Labor as defendants.
Joining Florida and Wyoming in the lawsuit, are Alabama, Alaska, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah and West Virginia.
April 10, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Landfill Construction Pit – Bigfoot99 file photo
The “free landfill days” in Rawlins will change this year. Residents will receive only one voucher for one free trip to the landfill. The city council discussed the impact on staff and the budget and whether more days were needed.
Last year, city residents received two coupons to dump construction and demolition waste at the landfill, free of charge. The idea was to encourage people to dispose of debris and beatify the town.
Originally a week-long event, the city moved to a voucher system last year. This allows residents more time and alleviates strain on the landfill staff. Two vouchers were issued to each household, one for spring and one for fall. This year, the city intends to mail out a single coupon to be redeemed anytime between May and September.
At Tuesday’s city council meeting, Councilman Chris Weisenburg presented a resolution for the single use landfill voucher.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Free-Landfill-Days-1.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum asked what day the program begins on. He said the resolution simply says May. Public Relations Officer Mira Miller said she doesn’t know when people actually will receive the postcards. Landfill Superintendent Patrick Martinez said last year people were upset if they received the voucher after the official start date. As a result, a generalized timeframe was introduced this year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Free-Landfill-Days-2.mp3Miller said the plan is to begin mailing the vouchers out at the beginning of May. Vice Mayor Steve Sanger asked why wait when the vouchers could be sent earlier? Miller said she would speak to the printer and attempt to have the coupons ready to mail sooner. Councilman Weisenburg suggested an improvement to the resolution, to specify when the program begins.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Free-Landfill-Days-3.mp3A friendly amendment is a change to a motion that the councilmember believes everyone would agree on. Weisenberg overestimated the degree of friendliness on the current council.
Councilwoman Tonya Lewman took a contrary view and said sending the vouchers early may create confusion about when the program begins. Landfill Superintendent Martinez said the reason they chose to start sending the coupons in early May was to prevent that very thing from happening.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Free-Landfill-Days-4.mp3Councilman Weisenburg said it would be up to the landfill staff to decide if they accept the vouchers before May 1st. He said he wanted the coupons to have a specific date on them. Mayor Weickum said he felt having a set day may upset people who receive their voucher after the program begins.
Councilman Bruce Seilaff asked if the program’s timeframe was reduced from last year. Martinez said having one voucher for a longer time period saved the city money.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Free-Landfill-Days-5.mp3Councilman Seilaff said lowering the number of free loads could make people unhappy.
Mayor Weickum said the entire idea of a free landfill day may be defeating the purpose of the program. He said vouchers incentivize people to collect more garbage and hold onto it until the next free dump day.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Free-Landfill-Days-6.mp3Mayor Weickum said he doesn’t think the program is contributing to the city in the way it was intended. He admitted that having a physical coupon was better than the old way of setting aside a specific week without fees. The voucher allows people to naturally space out the times they arrive at the dump, lowering the impact on city workers. He said the vouchers also help prevent out-of-towners from taking advantage of the program.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Free-Landfill-Days-7.mp3Councilman Seilaff expressed disappointment that the city was reducing the number of free days down to one. Councilman Weisenburg asked the landfill superintendent how much the program cost the city. Martinez said cutting back the number of days reduced the cost by thousands of dollars.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Free-Landfill-Days-8-1.mp3The money for the free landfill days originally came from the city’s dangerous building fund. Miller said last year, the council voted to have the money taken from the landfill enterprise fund instead. Councilman Weisenburg asked how much money was taken from the landfill fund to pay for the program. Miller said the only out-of-pocket cost is to mail the vouchers. Weisenburg said employee-time should be factored into the price.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Free-Landfill-Days-9.mp3Mayor Weickum explained why the council voted to move funding for the free landfill days away from the dangerous building fund. Weickum said making abandoned structures safe was more important than paying for a program he doesn’t support; allowing people free access to the city dump.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Free-Landfill-Days-10.mp3Councilwoman Lewman asked how the program was run in the past. Was there always a voucher for two free days? Martinez said before the voucher system was introduced last year, residents had a single week to bring as much waste as they could. He called it, “Hell Week.”
Councilman Seilaff said he would prefer the voucher to allow two free loads at different times. Martinez said he could send one postcard with two coupons to cut back on postage fees, but he needed to collect a voucher for every load to ensure proper record keeping. To avoid confusion, Mayor Weickum asked the council to vote on the resolution as it was originally written. The motion passed, but Councilman Weisenburg’s friendly amendment to create a set beginning on May 1st was rejected.
Rawlins residents will begin receiving their landfill voucher in early May. The coupon will be good for a single load of construction debris between the months of May and September.
April 10, 2023 |
Photo – Pool Tables at Platte Valley Community Center – By Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
The best pool players from across the country gathered in Saratoga to compete in a one-off tournament.
The games played out over Easter Weekend during the 13th Annual Wyoming Open Pool Tournament at the Platte Valley Community Center. Now in its 15th year, the tournament has been a staple in the PVCC’s Great Hall. Event organizer, Ed Glode, said the tournament has only missed one year since the first event was held in 2008.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Pool-Tournament-1.mp3The Great Hall cannot hold all of the competitors and games that are happening at one time. Pool tables spilled out into the lobby of the PVCC. This year, around 190 players took part in the 4-day event. Glode said in the two years before COVID, the tournament had the greatest number of participants at 272 people. The pandemic shut down the event in 2020, but attendance is slowly rebounding to pre-COVID numbers. Glode said the games have attracted two big names in the pool scene to Saratoga.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Pool-Tournament-2.mp3Rodney “Rocket” Morris is a nationally recognized player from Georgia. Morris has won over 14 major titles in his 20-year long career. Corey Deuel is from Ohio. Nicknamed “Prince of Pool,” Deuel has 18 titles to his name.
The Wyoming Open Pool Tournament has five skill classes. Glode said from Thursday to Sunday, players competed against others in their class for large cash prizes.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Pool-Tournament-3.mp3Glode said sponsors from around the Valley put up the prize money. The Carbon County Visitors Council helps fund the event with a grant, since it is a popular regional attraction. Glode said the Saratoga Lions Club is able to host the pool tournament every year using grant and sponsorship money.
The Wyoming Open Pool Tournament is an exhibition match. Glode said players do not have to work their way up to the games. Anyone who pays the entry fee can participate, up to the player limit of each bracket. Glode said the tournament encourages people to visit Saratoga after winter.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Pool-Tournament-4.mp3The 13th annual Wyoming Open Pool Tournament ended Sunday. We’ll have more information about the overall winners later in the week.
April 10, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming State Capitol Building in Cheyenne – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Biden Administration appears to be dogging Wyoming and another coal producing state, Tennessee, over their ozone plans. Governor Mark Gordon is fighting back in federal court.
Last month, the Environmental Protection Agency announced it would ignore its own data and “defer action” on Wyoming’s State Implementation Plan (SIP) for ozone.
Governor Mark Gordon is asking the Tenth Circuit Court to review the EPA’s decision to defer action on Wyoming’s State Implementation Plan for ozone transport.
This follows the March 14th petition by Wyoming to reconsider and stay the effect of the EPA’s deferral disapproval of the State’s plan. The petition highlights how the EPA arbitrarily deferred Wyoming’s SIP by overlooking their own ozone modeling data and applying it differently to Wyoming than in their decisions on other states.
Gordon said in a statement. “This is yet another example of this Administration picking and choosing examples which are intended to punish fossil energy-producing states.”
The petition illustrates how the EPA arbitrarily deferred Wyoming’s SIP by overlooking the agency’s own ozone modeling data and applying it differently to Wyoming than in their decisions on other states. The data shows that Wyoming is not a significant contributor to ozone pollution in our neighboring states, the governor said.
Governor Gordon previously discussed with EPA Administer Michael Regan that the current ozone transport rule violates the principles of cooperative federalism, does not accommodate all forms of energy development, and is disproportionately applied to western states.
“Wyoming is not a significant contributor to ozone pollution in our neighboring states,” the governor said in a written statement.
April 10, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Museum – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Carbon County Museum is asking residents to share their stories about the area and recent winter.
Carbon County Museum Director Tom Mensik has a slogan, of sorts. “History is happening now, and YOU are part of it.” With this idea in mind, Mensik has put out a call to Carbon County residents asking for their personal stories.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Museum-Stories-1.mp3Our winter has been described as a “once in a generation” event. While it wasn’t nearly as devastating as the infamous blizzard of 1949, winter storm Olive did have a serious effect on people’s lives. The heavy snowfall and high wind gusts caused massive pileups on the interstate and trapped people in their homes for weeks. Mensik said in the future, people may wish to learn about the so-called blizzard of ‘23 and he would like to have a record of personal experiences, whether good or bad.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Museum-Stories-2.mp3As of the reporting of this story, Mensik hasn’t collected stories from anyone aside from museum staff. He asked for pictures or video of large snow drifts from this winter. Mensik said to contact the museum online to share your experiences.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Museum-Stories-3.mp3Mensik said he would like to begin compiling the stories into a video or series of videos by early summer. He asked anyone, with a story to tell, to contact him before the end of this month.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Museum-Stories-4.mp3As well as being permanently stored in the museum for future exhibitions, the videos will also be available online. Since he took over as director of the Carbon County Museum last September, Mensik has been working to increase the facility’s online presence by posting historical information on social media. Mensik said the museum’s YouTube channel is growing. He said the museum’s social media focus is on more contemporary history.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Museum-Stories-5.mp3Mensik asked people to visit the museum’s YouTube channel to see more videos about local history. The museum director said he would like to collect anecdotes not only about this winter, but about people’s lives in general.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0410_Museum-Stories-6.mp3History is happening all the time and you are part of it. If you have a story to share, contact the Carbon County Museum’s Facebook page or email info@carboncountymuseum.org before April 28th.
April 7, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Detention Center – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Saratoga man accused of supplying deadly fentanyl laced cocaine to a local couple who died in early February is out on bond.
Max Schneider, 23, was arrested on February 17th for the overdose deaths of two Saratoga residents: Richard Heap and Cassidee Wingo.
According to court documents, on Friday, February 3rd, Schneider allegedly found a small baggie of white power in the bathroom of the restaurant he worked at. Later that night, he allegedly gave the bag to Wingo, his co-worker. Wingo and Heap were found dead the next morning.
An investigation by the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office and Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigations led to Schneider’s arrest nearly two weeks later. Schneider is charged with two counts of Manslaughter and one count of Delivery of a Controlled Substance, specifically fentanyl. He was initially held in the Carbon County Jail on a $150,000 cash-only bond.
Schneider’s case was moved to district court and his first arraignment was on March 27th. He pled not guilty, and his bond was reduced to $30,000 with a 10% signature deed. Schneider’s parents paid the $3,000 and signed the bond deed. He was released that same day.
Schneider has a pre-trial conference on July 24th to discuss the case and attempt to plead to a lesser charge. Schneider’s jury trial is slated to begin August 15th starting at 8:30am.
According to the court documents from Schneider’s indictment, a 3rd person died from allegedly consuming drugs from the same batch that killed Heap and Wingo. An unidentified Hanna man was found dead on February 13th from a fentanyl overdose. He was allegedly the source of the drugs. Court documents report that when the Hanna man died of an overdose, a similar small white baggie of powder was found near his body. The man’s roommates claimed the man, whose name has been withheld by DCI, lost the baggie in the Saratoga restaurant bathroom while high on drugs. There have been no more reported deaths in the nearly two months since the three deaths.
Sources tell Bigfoot99 the Hanna man was Scotty Lanclos from Opelousas, Louisiana. Multiple calls to DCI to confirm this information have not been returned.
April 7, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Water Treatment Facility – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Rawlins, newly discovered issues at the mothballed pretreatment plant have delayed preliminary testing until next month.
After last summer’s disastrous water crisis, city officials decided to reopen the long dormant water pretreatment plant. Constructed in the year 2000 to draw and chemically treat water out of the North Platte River, the facility has hardly been used in the 23 years since it was built.
Rawlins has an existing treatment plant that cleans water drawn from the Sage Creek Spring, south of the city. Spring water is naturally less contaminated than water exposed to the air and doesn’t require as much chemical treatment as river water. The city is bringing the pretreatment plant back online to handle sterilization of the river water and prevent the standard treatment plant from being overwhelmed.
Testing on the pretreatment was originally scheduled to begin in January. The facility was planned to be fully operational by May. Unspecified delays have pushed the dates back.
At Tuesday’s city council meeting, Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey said the plant is nearly ready for what is called a wet run, but workers discovered a broken piece of equipment.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0407_Water-Pre-Treatment-Plant-1.mp3A clay valve is an electronically controlled gate that allows technicians to remotely administer the proper chemical mixture to the incoming water. Sarvey said the broken valve has postponed the wet run.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0407_Water-Pre-Treatment-Plant-2.mp3Sarvey said the part is on order and is expected to arrive in two or three weeks. The wet run is now scheduled during the first week of May.
Rawlins has developed a water master plan with the Wyoming Water Development Commission. In January, the WWDC advertised for a contractor to perform a level one study of the city’s plan with a budget of $250,000.
A level one study consists of identifying the need for a project and recommending to the state legislature whether the project should continue. Sarvey said the city is prepared to select a contractor.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0407_Water-Pre-Treatment-Plant-3.mp3After the wet run of the pre-treatment facility in early May, Sarvey said he will be prepared to make recommendations about water restrictions heading into summer.
April 7, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga’s Free Library Cabinet – by Matt Copeland of Bigfoot99
Two more free library boxes will be installed in Saratoga.
Outside the town hall, along Third Street, a small wooden box of books has been installed for people to take and return at their leisure, free of charge. The Saratoga Friends of the Library built and installed the box. At Tuesday’s town council meeting, Friends of the Library member Addie Meyers said she would like to place two more boxes around town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0407_Toga-Library-Boxes-1.mp3The free library boxes are small wooden cabinets containing donated books. People are free to take the books and return them or replace them with a different item.
Meyers said her reason for coming before the council, was to request town employees to help install the support beams that hold the book boxes. She also suggested having students help design the cabinets.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0407_Toga-Library-Boxes-2.mp3Meyers said the Friends of the Library group was considering having the students hold a contest to redesign the existing library box outside of town hall.
Meyers said they regularly check on the box in town to ensure it doesn’t fill with junk. The box was made by the members of the Saratoga Friends of the Library. Meyers said the county library board is donating money towards construction of the two new boxes. She asked the town to help dig the post holes.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0407_Toga-Library-Boxes-3.mp3The council members expressed support for the project. Mayor Chuck Davis asked for a motion to allow town employees to assist with the installation of the two new free library boxes. The motion passed. Meyers said she doesn’t have a concrete timeline on when the new boxes will be installed, but she expects work to begin in early summer.
April 7, 2023 |
Photo – Baseball – Bigfoot99 file photo
Rawlins needs to improve its existing baseball fields, says the city recreation director.
During a workshop session before Tuesday’s city council meeting, Parks and Recreation Director Jason Sehon said he toured the city’s sports facilities two years ago. He said he did not expect the baseball fields to be in such poor condition.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Ballfields-1.mp3Sehon said he met with members of the American Legion Post 112 Generals baseball team two months later. Volunteers from the Legion, as well as parents and children, spent a day cleaning up the ball fields. The city parks department also aerated and fertilized the turf and tilled the infield. Sehon said baseball infields need a specialized mix of dirt, sand, and clay which requires regular maintenance. He explained what happens if maintenance isn’t performed properly.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Ballfields-2.mp3The city has two different sets of baseball fields. Little League plays at the VFW Ballpark by the county fairgrounds. The Generals play at the sports complex on Harshman Street. Sehon said the VFW ballfield is in better shape than the sports complex.
Over the last two years, Sehon said a force of volunteers and city employees worked to improve both sets of ball fields.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Ballfields-3.mp3Sehon said he bought the specialized dirt and clay mixture for the sports complex baseball fields. He said a highly recommended company will come in the fall to apply the mix and level out the field.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Ballfields-4.mp3Laser grading uses a survey laser to mark out a perfectly level play surface without dips or other imperfections.
Trevor Taffner, who plays for the Generals, attended the workshop on behalf of the American Legion. Taffner said the league’s Western Conference Director stated, in a letter to him, that the city fields were below quality for league play. Taffner said the league wants improvements.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Ballfields-5.mp3Sehon admitted two inches of infield mix would not make much of a difference on its own. He said good dirt still exists on the fields that can be combined with the new clay mixture. Sehon said upgrades are limited by his budget.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Ballfields-6.mp3Sehon said the parks department usually spends one day working on the baseball fields before each season, with a crew of volunteers following up the next day. He said the fields at the sports complex are in such poor condition that Parks Superintendent Tyrell Perry will have crews spend three days there.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Ballfields-7.mp3Councilman Chris Weisenburg said he was shocked by the letter Taffner received. He asked how the city can allow children on a field considered too dangerous to play on.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Ballfields-8.mp3Sehon said he wouldn’t allow kids to play on an unsafe field. He said the infields are in fairly good shape, but the outfield is in need of work. Sehon said the ball field is still perfectly playable, however. He said you can’t account for every imperfection in the field.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Ballfields-9.mp3Sehon said Rawlins has the chance to host a district little league tournament in 2026, but only if the fields are brought up to league standards before that time.
Sehon mentioned other upgrades needed at the ball fields. He said the concession stand was renovated, but the concrete still needs to be replaced. Upgrades will be paid for by Wyoming Community Gas payouts and Carbon County School District #1 recreation grants. Sehon said he can only do so much each year with the money he has.
Sehon and the entire city council expressed their appreciation for the volunteers who donate their time to help maintain the baseball fields. Without their help, Mayor Terry Weickum said, the city could never hope to maintain the fields on its own.
April 6, 2023 |
Photo – North Platte River – Bigfoot99 file photo
Higher than average snowpack has prompted concerns about spring flooding. Carbon County’s Office of Emergency Management wants towns to have a flooding declaration at the ready.
Late February, Winter Storm Olive dumped upwards of four feet of snow on our area. Wind gusts of 80 miles per hour created huge snow drifts. A similar scenario played out again this week, driving up snowpack. Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman has drafted an emergency declaration, opening the door for state assistance. The declaration allows local communities to request resources from the state.
Snowpack, in the mountains that feed the North Platte River, are 135% above the median. When the spring melt begins, flooding is looking more likely. During the March 21st Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Layman presented a draft memorandum of understanding, or MOU, he would like to have municipalities sign before flooding becomes an issue.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Flood-Potential-1.mp3Layman explained the MOU would allow towns to decide for themselves when flooding becomes an emergency. With a signed flood declaration, the county would be able to step in and help. If more help is needed, a county flood declaration would allow a request for outside assistance. Everything would move up the chain of command.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Flood-Potential-2.mp3Layman said he wants towns that are prone to flooding, such as Elk Mountain, Encampment, and Saratoga, to have a flood declaration ready to go before it might be needed.
At Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, council members were presented with Layman’s flooding resolution. Town Clerk Marie Christen read from Layman’s prewritten flood declaration, Resolution 2023-11. The document gives examples of what constitutes a flood emergency.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Flood-Potential-3.mp3Reading from the resolution, Christen said if flooding conditions cause or are likely to cause damage to property, disrupt utility service, or endanger Saratoga residents, Mayor Chuck Davis can sign the document to request help from the county.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Flood-Potential-4.mp3Mayor Davis said he attended several meetings with Layman where the flood declaration was explained to him. He said signing the resolution would set two actions into motion. One would give the town access to a county owned automated sandbag filling machine and the other would allow the county to request outside resources.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Flood-Potential-5.mp3Mayor Davis said the resolution was about moving assistance requests up the chain of command, ensuring the town and county are not held liable for cost or damage to outside equipment.
Councilman Jerry Fluty asked if the resolution came with any hidden stipulations or specific criteria the town needed to meet. He asked if the resolution gives the county leverage or control over the town during an emergency event. Mayor Davis said no. The town will be in complete control of how emergency resources are used.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Flood-Potential-6.mp3Mayor Davis said the resolution won’t force the town to rely solely on the county for help. If necessary, the town could create an MOU with local contractors for specific forms of assistance. Mayor Davis said in the event of an emergency flood declaration, Layman would set up a command post in town and the council would tell him what resources they need, such as more sandbags.
Councilman Jerry Fluty said the town has used sandbags in the past. He said they are costly and temporary solutions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Flood-Potential-7.mp3Mayor Davis said sandbags prevent flooding. Councilman Jerry Fluty said a large flood would be required to cause damage to the town. He suggested the town allow the flood water to drain into the sewers instead. Mayor Davis said Water and Sewer Supervisor Chuck McVey was concerned a flood could overwhelm the town’s storm water system.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Flood-Potential-8.mp3Councilman Jerry Fluty asked if anything was being done about Boozer Creek. The man-made tributary is showing signs of erosion which could allow water to surge into the North Platte River during a flood, potentially damaging structures along the riverbank. During the 2011 flood, Army National Guard servicemen dropped sandbags along Boozer Creek, but a decade of weathering has reduced the barrier’s effectiveness. Saratoga-Encampment-Rawlins Conservation District Manager Joe Parsons is spearheading efforts to alter the flow of Boozer Creek to reduce the flood risk. Mayor Davis said he’s spoken to Parsons who told him the project was still at least a year away from starting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Flood-Potential-9.mp3Mayor Davis said he and Councilman Mike Cooley have spoken to the Army Corps of Engineers about creating a plan to handle the potential spring flood. The mayor said he was told it would take up to 60 days before a plan could be put into place, but the Corps of Engineers could still be called out in the event of an emergency.
Mayor Davis said he’s also spoken to Natural Resources Conservation Service, or NRCS, Conservationist Mark Shirley. The mayor said Shirley informed him of a government funding opportunity to repair the riverbanks, but he wasn’t sure how much money would be available due to disasters in other states.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Flood-Potential-10.mp3Mayor Davis asked for a motion to approve Resolution 2023-11. Councilman Cooley motioned, and Councilwoman Kathy Beck seconded. The motion carried.
April 6, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
Rawlins City Council, this week, weighed the benefits of hosting regular town hall meetings with the public. During a workshop, prior to Tuesday’s regular council meeting, the governing body discussed the need for town hall-style meetings. Mayor Terry Weickum said he’d heard requests for council to meet with town employees to talk to the public. Mayor Weickum asked if council members were open to the idea.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Rawlins-Special-Meetings-1.mp3Mayor Weickum said public meetings were held regarding the dog park and the skateboard park, but an actual town hall meeting was only held to address the water crisis. He said the meeting was well received by residents.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Rawlins-Special-Meetings-2.mp3Councilman Chris Weisenburg asked who would host the meetings. The councilman said he wasn’t clear if the town hall meetings would be for the council members or city employees. Weisenburg said the council already has two meetings a month. Mayor Weickum said the meetings should be for people knowledgeable about a subject to answer questions from the public.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Rawlins-Special-Meetings-3.mp3Mayor Weickum said the subject matter will decide who should attend the meeting. Councilman Bruce Seilaff was concerned that having council members present would create a quorum. The mayor said the council would never take official action during a town hall meeting.
Councilwoman Jacquelin Wells suggested they wait until a new city manager is hired. She said the city manager should be the one to schedule a town hall meeting and set an agenda. Mayor Weickum said they need to ensure the most knowledgeable people attend.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Rawlins-Special-Meetings-4.mp3Mayor Weickum asked the council if they agreed the city manager should be responsible for handling the meetings. Vice Mayor Steve Sanger said having the council members present at a meeting could create a problem with future voting. Mayor Weickum said they just wouldn’t make any official decisions during a town hall meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Rawlins-Special-Meetings-5.mp3The council members discussed different ways to ensure a quorum wasn’t had. The idea of rotating who attended the meetings, so that no more than two or three council members were present, was mentioned. Mayor Weickum said the subject matter will dictate who should attend.
Councilwoman Tonya Lewman suggested a spring town hall to address the city’s water situation. Councilman Weisenburg agreed, saying the matter shouldn’t wait until a new city manager to be hired.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Rawlins-Special-Meetings-6.mp3Mayor Weickum said Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey will have an update about the city’s water in the next few weeks. With the information in hand, Mayor Weickum said he would be open to scheduling a public meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Rawlins-Special-Meetings-7.mp3Councilman Weisenburg suggested a town hall meeting about snow removal. He said it would help the community understand how the city handles plowing and snow storage.
Councilwoman Lewman agreed that more town hall meetings would be a good thing. Councilman Weisenburg reiterated the need to have someone knowledgeable about the subject being discussed run the meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Rawlins-Special-Meetings-8.mp3Mayor Weickum said the city handles public relations better now than in the past. He said a town hall meeting will allow people to learn about a subject and consider how it affects them.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0406_Rawlins-Special-Meetings-9.mp3The city council agreed that having town hall meetings specifically for the council members was unnecessary. Two meetings a month are scheduled where the public can hear information and address the council. Mayor Weickum said his cell phone number is readily available for people to call him with their concerns. The town hall meetings should focus on professionals presenting information to the public.
April 5, 2023 |
Photo – Mule Deer – Bigfoot99 file photo
A “catastrophic winter” has taken a devastating toll on Carbon County’s wildlife, State Senator Larry Hicks told Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon and other attending a virtual meeting Tuesday evening.
Hicks said snow came early and they came big. Winter still has not given up and melting has not begun even at lower elevations, the state senator from Baggs said.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Gov-Meeting-1.mp3Winter is not giving up, Hicks said. Snowpack is still going up and not melting out. As a result, crucial winter range for big game animals, in a belt of elevations either side of 6,000 feet, have been impacted. Hicks described it as a “catastrophic winter.”
Hicks used a series of pictures, he took in the Baggs area two weeks ago, to document the devastating impact the winter had on the county’s pronghorn population.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Gov-Meeting-2.mp3A dozen or more pronghorn of various ages and at least one mule deer was shown in the devastating scenes Hicks recorded with a video camera.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Gov-Meeting-3.mp3Hicks said Carbon County has endured bad winters in the past, but this year has been “catastrophic.”
Carbon County Commissioner John Espy, who ranches on both sides of the Continental Divide southwest of Rawlins, asked both Governor Gordon and Wyoming Game and Fish Director Brian Nesvik to curtail hunting this season.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Gov-Meeting-4.mp3The game and fish director described the impacts on pronghorn and mule deer in the Little Snake River region as “devastating.” Nesvik said the Platte Valley fared somewhat better.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Gov-Meeting-5.mp3Nesvik said winter mortality in the Shirley Basin also has been above normal.
The Game and Fish chief said that the agency is continuing to evaluate the upcoming hunting seasons. No decisions have been made, yet. Nesvik said Game and Fish may even change quotas later in the year as more information from the winter kill is collected and improved assessments of populations are made.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Gov-Meeting-6.mp3Nesvik said this has been “a winter like most of us haven’t seen.” He added that the agency has the ability to employ emergency regulations, as more information comes in over the next several months, to adjust hunting seasons as needed. Nesvik said the agency will continue to evaluate impacts as biologists and others are able to better collect and evaluate the impacts of this year’s long and heavy winter.
Yesterday’s meeting will be posted online to the governor’s website sometime today.
April 5, 2023 |
Photo – TIPS Course Poster – Courtesy Rawlins Police Department
In Rawlins, the police department will host the first alcohol server training class of the year this Friday. To legally sell alcohol in Rawlins, bartenders and other servers must obtain a TIPS certification. TIPS, or Training for Intervention Procedures, was founded in 1979 and provides classes in all 50 states to servers, sellers, and consumers of alcohol. Rawlins Code Enforcement Officer Brian Markut explained how the TIPS course helps participants avoid overserving people.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_TIPS-Training-1.mp3Markut said TIPS training assists servers in identifying and resolving problems related to alcohol consumption. He said the program offers advice on how to safely deal with intoxicated customers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_TIPS-Training-2.mp3Markut said servers need to be aware of their customers. Signs of drunkenness include a change in mood, slurred speech, and diminished inhibitions. Markut said The TIPS training will give servers the tools to identify the signs of intoxication.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_TIPS-Training-3.mp3Markut said food is the best way to prevent someone from going over their limit. If a customer becomes angry after being cut off, Markut suggests the server have their supervisor become involved in the situation. If that fails to resolve the issue, he suggests calling the police.
Another aspect of the TIPS training is how to prevent underage drinking. Markut said the class offers information about fake ID’s and how to spot them. He gives an example of a technique taught during the course.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_TIPS-Training-4.mp3TIPS training isn’t mandatory across the state, but is required in certain counties and towns, like Rawlins. The certificate can be obtained online. However, Markut said the city requires an in-person training session within three months of being hired. The server must also work with someone already TIPS certified during that time. He explained how the in-person class gives participants a chance to see how the techniques would work in a realistic scenario.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_TIPS-Training-5.mp3Markut said he also shows slides and videos of drunk driving accidents to emphasize how important it is to intervene when someone appears to be over the limit.
The Rawlins Police Department typically holds TIPS training four times a year. Markut said heavy snow canceled classes scheduled for January and February. Friday’s session will be the first of the year. The classes are held at the Rawlins Fire Department No2, located at 219 East Center Street. Markut said the training usually takes between four and five hours.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_TIPS-Training-6.mp3The TIPS training class starts at 9:00 am on Friday, April 7th. Other training sessions will be held on July 10th and November 13th. Contact Katrina James at the Rawlins Police Department at 307-324-4503 or 307-328-4530 to register for the class.
April 5, 2023 |
Photo-Dr. Told Mass Casualty Weekend in Baggs-Coutesy fightinprairiedogblog.com
Every summer the town of Baggs hosts a multi-day emergency training exercise for medical students.
To prepare future doctors for the realities of practicing rural medicine, each year the Little Snake River EMS stages the Dr. Told Mass Casualty Weekend in Baggs. Mark Meyer is the Master Delegator for the three-day long event. Meyer said students from the two Rocky Vista Medical Universities attend the exercise to learn in-person emergency skills.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Baggs-1.mp3Colloquially referred to as the Dr. Told Weekend, the event is named after former Little Snake River EMS Medical Director, Dr. Thomas Told. Meyer said Dr. Told left a huge impression on the community.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Baggs-2.mp3Dr. Told is Dean of Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Parker, Colorado.
The Weekend consists of three different emergency scenarios that change every year. Meyer said the situations are designed to incorporate as many unanticipated events as possible. He described one of the training exercises.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Baggs-3.mp3Meyer said the training scenarios are tailored after current events. Besides a simulated motor vehicle accident and fire rescue, medical students will experience a mock school shooting. Meyer said the scenarios will be as realistic as possible.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Baggs-4.mp3To increase the realism of the event, Meyer said Rocky Vista University provides a moulage artist to apply believable artificial wounds to the actors pretending to be victims.
The Dr. Told Weekend coincides with the annual Baggs Ball Fundraiser during the first weekend of June. Medical students from both the Parker, Colorado and Ivins, Utah Rocky Vista University campuses will arrive in Baggs on Friday.
A briefing is held that evening and the emergency training begins Saturday afternoon. Meyer explained what the students can expect.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Baggs-5.mp3Saturday evening is the Baggs Ball. Every year the Ball features a different theme. Last year’s was The Great Gatsby. Meyer said the theme of this year is Boots and Blitz, or as he explained it, fancy cowboy attire. Meyer said the Baggs Ball allows the medical students a chance to unwind after a day of difficult training. He said the students also provide a needed infusion of cash into the town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Baggs-6.mp3Sunday morning, students will complete the final training exercise. Afterwards, several nationally recognized speakers will address the trainees. Meyer said the speakers typically charge a large fee, but they are offering their services free of charge for the Dr. Told Weekend. Meyer explained two of the guest speakers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Baggs-7.mp3Meyer said Dr. Dave Ross was the physician medical director in Colorado Springs and has done educational events across the area. Other speakers include a trauma surgeon, a person who specializes in treating PTSD in medical providers, and the head of the rural track program at the Rocky Vista Utah campus, Dr. Bingham. Meyers said Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman will be on site to increase the event’s authenticity.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0405_Baggs-8.mp3Meyer said the Dr. Told Weekend not only provides a great training experience but is also beneficial to the town. He said the influx of visitors creates an economic boom for local businesses and the town as a whole.
April 4, 2023 |
Photo – Herd of Pronghorn – Bigfoot99 file photo
Winters are never easy on Wyoming’s big game animals.
This year has been no different. Higher-than-average snowfall events and lower temperatures have produced some big storms. Snow events have produced deeper accumulations and colder weather has not allowed for a lot of thawing.
Wyoming Game and Fish Wildlife Management Coordinator Martin Hicks said his agency is keeping a close eye on pronghorn antelope and mule deer populations. He said he was pleasantly surprised to see that 74% of the pronghorn being monitored survived the winter. Hicks said Carbon County hasn’t experienced the same level of die-off as neighboring areas.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0304_Winter-Kill-1.mp3Hicks said this season wasn’t as hard on the animals as the winter of 2020. He said a large portion of the pronghorn population were trapped in the Shirley Basin by snow, resulting in many of the animals dying.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0304_Winter-Kill-2.mp3Hicks said preliminary observations show young and old mule deer were impacted the hardest by the harsh weather. He said healthy adult animals appear to have survived with minimal losses. Despite the positive news, Hicks said Game and Fish will be issuing fewer hunting licenses this year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0304_Winter-Kill-3.mp3Hicks said Game and Fish will respond to the situation by issuing fewer female pronghorn and antlered mule deer hunting licenses for the Platte River Valley in 2023. He said the full effects of this winter won’t be known until biologists do a head count next year. Until then, Wyoming Game and Fish is estimating how many animals perished in the snow.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0304_Winter-Kill-4.mp3Hicks said the hard winter is a double-edged sword. Many animals will not survive, but that means less competition for valuable food sources in the spring. Fewer mouths to feed means more animals heading into next winter with the highest chance of survival.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0304_Winter-Kill-5.mp3Hicks said our area has been in a drought for the past four years. He said the area needed this winter’s big snowstorm, despite the negative effect on wildlife.
April 4, 2023 |
Photo – Governor Mark Gordon – Bigfoot99 file photo
Because of severe weather impacting the region, Governor Mark Gordon will hold today’s scheduled Rawlins town hall meeting on winter kill in an on-line format only.
The Zoom webinar can accommodate 500 guests and will begin at 4 pm on April 4, 2023, as previously scheduled.
April 4, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Courthouse – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Board of Carbon County Commissioners has cancelled its regular meeting today because of the pending storm.
Today’s regular board meeting has been postponed to April 11. Some items of business will occur today.
County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett said in an email, on Monday, that the plan is to call today’s regular meeting to order, approve payment of invoices, approve an opioid contract, then recess until April 11 at 9 a.m. Any other business, that is urgent, also will be handled today.
April 4, 2023 |
Photo – Former Governor Dave Freudenthal – Courtesy Wikipedia
The Carbon County Historical Society isn’t only focused on the past. Its most recent speaker laid out a plan for the future of the state.
The Carbon County Chapter of the Wyoming Historical Society was founded in the 1950’s and works to educate people about the history of our area. The COVID pandemic stopped in-person meetings for several years. For their first meeting of 2023, the Carbon County Historical Society hosted a guest speaker: former Wyoming Governer David Freudenthal. Speaking on his new book, “Wyoming: The Paradox of Plenty,” Freudenthal spoke to an audience of 40 people. Historical Society Vice President Dr. David Throgmorton explained the premise of the book.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0404_Freudenthal-Book-1.mp3The paradox of plenty, or resource curse, is when places with abundant natural resources fail to see the economic growth associated with the extraction and sale of those resources. According to the book’s premise, Wyoming is suffering from a paradox of plenty. Dr. Throgmorton said we are too dependent on outside money to pay for community needs.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0404_Freudenthal-Book-2.mp3In his book, Freudenthal says Wyoming residents need to pay more taxes.
Having more financial involvement, more at stake, will give residents greater agency over how their communities grow. Dr. Throgmorton said Freudenthal’s book shows an economic advantage for the entire state.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0404_Freudenthal-Book-3.mp3Dr. Throgmorton admits Freudenthal’s idea isn’t very attractive, but it is necessary for the continued growth of the state. When the oil and gas drillers leave, it will create a deficit in state and county budgets. Without a reliable source of income, Wyoming will become increasingly dependent on federal funding and residents will have little to no say on how the money is spent. Using Rawlins as an example, Dr. Throgmorton said towns need to take more responsibility for the upkeep of critical systems.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0404_Freudenthal-Book-4.mp3Dr. Throgmorton said he considers former Governer Freudenthal’s presentation a success because it attracted a more diverse age group than a typical historical society meeting. He said he will attempt to have a regular supply of guest speakers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0404_Freudenthal-Book-5.mp3Dr. Throgmorton said Carbon County has a unique place in the history of the United States of America. He said the political agreements that formed our nation, all have boundaries, somewhere in our county.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0404_Freudenthal-Book-6.mp3The Carbon County Historical Society meets quarterly at the Carbon County Higher Education building in Rawlins. Entry is free. The next meeting will be in June. Visit the Carbon County Historical Society Facebook page for more information.
April 4, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming Highway Patrol Vehicle – Bigfoot99 file photo
A tow truck driver from Wamsutter was killed early Monday morning when the driver of a commercial rig lost control and slid into the median where it collided with a tow truck involved in a recovery operation from an earlier slide off.
The tow truck driver was identified as 45-year-old Wamsutter resident Kirby Lugg. Lugg was transported to Memorial Hospital of Carbon County, where he succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash.
The driver of the Kenworth was identified as a 41-year-old Houston, Texas resident Edgar F. Echeverria. Echeverria was not wearing a seatbelt and succumbed to his injuries in the crash.
The third car’s driver was transported to Memorial Hospital of Carbon County for injuries sustained in the crash.
Speeding too fast for road conditions, on the part of Echeverria, is being investigated as a possible contributing factor.
This is the 34th fatality on Wyoming’s roadways in 2023 compared to 18 in 2022, 23 in 2021, and 14 in 2020.
April 4, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Middle School – Bigfoot99 file photo
Reports of false active shooters rang out in multiple Wyoming communities on Monday. All turned out to be false, but the calls triggered law enforcement agencies to investigate each one.
Media reports indicate that hoax calls were reported in Casper, Cheyenne, Gillette, Rock Springs, Buffalo, Sheridan, Cody, Star Valley, Cokeville and Crook County.
Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller reported that such incidents are referred to as “swatting.” In a media release issued at 10:35 Monday morning, Miller said that the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office and the Rawlins Police Department would have an increased presence in schools Monday, but the RPD had “not received any calls related to this trending event.”
Police departments around Wyoming reported that Monday’s phone calls were suspicious. The call to Cheyenne police came from an area code outside of Wyoming. Media reports indicated the call to Sheridan police was from an untraceable number and the caller had a foreign accent.
Although Natrona County schools went into lockdown procedures, the district posted this on its website late Monday morning: “From the onset, there appeared to be indications that the originating report was unfounded and that the report was consistent with similar hoax situations that have been occurring nationwide.”
Police at all locations in the state responded with the same urgency and gravity that Wyoming communities expect when active shooter calls are reported.
Monday’s fake calls also occurred in Colorado, where at least a dozen school districts went into lockdown procedures after false alarms were phoned into schools.
Governor Mark Gordon, in a twitter statement, thanked law enforcement, saying such incidents “endanger communities.” The Governor said, “While we are aware that these situations have been occurring throughout the U.S. and are often initiated from outside of the U.S., every false threat must be taken seriously to protect the safety of our children and teachers.”
April 3, 2023 |
Photo – Pronghorn – Bigfoot99 file photo
On the heels of last week’s meeting in Pinedale, Governor Mark Gordon will visit Rawlins Tuesday afternoon to discuss the impacts of the late winter and early spring snowstorms on the area’s wildlife.
Governor Mark Gordon will appear at the Jeffery Center with Wyoming Game Fish Director Brian Nesvik on Tuesday to discuss winter mortality on the area’s elk, mule deer, and pronghorn herds and to collect public input.
State Representative Donald Burkhart of House District 15 in Rawlins is helping to coordinate tomorrow’s meeting. Burkhart said wildlife in Carbon County have endured an especially hard winter.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_Don-Burkhart-1.mp3Multiple elk were hit by vehicles on Interstate 80 just west of Walcott Junction in early March or late February.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_Don-Burkhart-2.mp3Rep. Burkhart said Governor Gordon, after attending last week’s meeting in the Pinedale library, wanted to hold a similar meeting in Rawlins. The only night available on the governor’s schedule is tomorrow night.
Rep. Burkhart said the Governor will be joined by Wyoming Game and Fish Director Brian Nesvik. Local game and fish officials will be on hand, as well.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_Don-Burkhart-3.mp3At last week’s meeting in Pinedale, Dr. Kevin Monteith of the University of Wyoming School of Environment and Natural Resources indicated that Carbon County was hit hard by this year’s winter storms.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_Dr-Kevin-Monteith.mp3Game and Fish officials said hunting seasons likely will be affected by this winter’s mortality rates on various herds around the state.
Tomorrow’s meeting in Rawlins is scheduled for 4-to-5:30 p.m.—Tuesday afternoon, April 4—at the Jefferey Center.
April 3, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga’s Spring Avenue Project – Bigfoot99 file photo
Work is underway again in Saratoga on the Spring Avenue Utility and Street Improvement Project.
The contractor responsible for replacing the town’s aging water pipes, Lewis and Lewis, has a big job on its hands. After getting a late start last summer and running into delays over ground water and equipment problems, the contractor could not finish the project by the original Halloween deadline. Lewis and Lewis was forced to pay fines to the town totaling $1,750 a day until work was complete. The clock on the fees, called liquidated damages, is still ticking.
After a long winter, Project Superintendent Justin Reed and his crew returned to the job a week ago Monday. At a March 20th meeting between town officials and the contractor, Mayor Chuck Davis said the first order of business should be repairing existing damage near the Platte Valley Community Center. Mayor Davis said he’s happy with the work that has been done since the L&L crews arrived back in town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_Spring-Street-Work-1.mp3The mayor said work should resume on the water lines this week.
According to the mayor and Josh Morris from TO Engineers, the firm responsible for designing and overseeing the project, town officials are satisfied with the progress being made on the job. However, below freezing temperatures and continuing snow fall has slowed things down.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_Spring-Street-Work-2.mp3Over the winter, the mountain snowpack has accumulated to a point that springtime flooding in Saratoga is a real concern. Planning for emergency flood preparations has already begun. Mayor Davis said Lewis and Lewis has not been hampered by the threat of flooding, but melting snow and the resulting rise in groundwater may cause problems in the coming weeks.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_Spring-Street-Work-3.mp3Late last summer and early fall, ground water in the bore pit across from town hall brought the project to a standstill for several weeks. The bore pit was necessary to drill a hole for the pipe underneath State Highway 130 in the center of town. Since that time, the contractors have assured the town they have an effective strategy for dealing with groundwater.
While the town waits for Lewis and Lewis to finish the project, the streets department continues to address potholes. Mayor Davis said everyone is waiting for the warmer weather to finally arrive so work can really begin.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_Spring-Street-Work-4.mp3Mayor Davis said Lewis and Lewis has not given him a new expected completion date for the Spring Avenue Project. Finishing the project is as weather dependent now as it was last fall when work was suspended
April 3, 2023 |
Photo – Image of a hydraulic tilt deck trailer – Courtesy trailersusa.com
Carbon County Road and Bridge will purchase two new trailers to haul heavy equipment.
Members of the Board of Carbon County Commissioners approved a request from Road and Bridge Coordinator Kandis Fritz to buy two tilt deck trailers using impact assistance funding from the Gateway South project.
The county received $1.4 million from PacifiCorp in exchange for allowing the construction of an extra-high-voltage electrical transmission line through Carbon County. The project also includes a 10 acre expansion of the electrical substation near Medicine Bow. Construction is expected to be completed this October.
At the beginning of last week’s county commissioners meeting, Fritz said she received quotes for new heavy equipment trailers from two different companies. The quotes were for different kinds of trailers, depending on how much the commissioners would authorize her to spend. Fritz explained the quote she received from Floyd’s Truck Center, a large commercial trucking company with several locations in Wyoming.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0331_County-Trailers-1.mp3Fritz presented a second quote to the commissioners. Wyoming Machinery, a heavy equipment dealer out of Casper, provided a combined price for the two different kinds of trailers, tilt deck and standard.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0331_County-Trailers-2.mp3Fritz told the commissioners that she would rather have the hydraulic powered tilting deck trailer for ease of use. She said she would review the two quotes and return later in the meeting to present her choice.
Upon her return, Fritz said she would like to purchase two Trail King trailers from Wyoming Machinery.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0331_County-Trailers-3.mp3According to the manufacturer’s website, that specific model of trailer has a 60,000-pound weight limit, making it more than capable of carrying a standard road grader or front-end loader. The new trailers would allow Road and Bridge to transport equipment around the county without having to drive the slow-moving heavy machinery on the road.
The price of each trailer was around $5,000 more than the original quote. Fritz said the dealer suggested she purchase several pieces of additional equipment.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0331_County-Trailers-4.mp3Commissioner John Espy said he would prefer to purchase the tilting trailers. He said his experience with hydraulic lifting trailers shows it to be a safer and easier to use alternative than the traditional ramp type.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0331_County-Trailers-5.mp3Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones asked for a motion to accept the bid from Wyoming Machinery in the amount of $122,200 using Gateway South impact assistance funding. The motion was made, seconded, and carried. Fritz said she expects to take delivery of the new trailers in June or early July.
April 3, 2023 |
Photo – RHS Musical Play Poster – Courtesy Rawlins High School
Rawlins High School students are putting on a musical play based on a popular young adult novel.
Joseph Husband is in his third year of teaching choir at Rawlins High School. Each year he and the school’s fine arts students produce and perform a musical play. Last year, they put on Dan Goggin’s musical, “Nunsense.” Next week, the Rawlins High students will present their take on the Broadway rendition of “Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief.” Husband explained why he chose this story for the students to perform.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_RHS-Play-1.mp3Published in 2005, “Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief,” is the first book in Rick Riordan’s critically acclaimed five-part Percy Jackson series. The book was adapted into a Broadway musical in 2014. In the novel and play, Percy Jackson is a young man who discovers he is related to the ancient Greek god of the sea, Poseidon. Husband described a little more of the plot.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_RHS-Play-2.mp3The RHS student version of the play will include songs from the Broadway musical. Husband said the music is used to emphasize important emotional moments of the play.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_RHS-Play-3.mp3Husband said he has 16 kids working on the show. When it comes to putting on a successful play, the choir teacher said, the behind-the-scenes crew is as important as the actors.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_RHS-Play-4.mp3Husband said the fine arts team weren’t required to construct elaborate sets for the “Percy Jackson,” play. He said lighting is used in creative ways to convey what’s going on in the story.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_RHS-Play-5.mp3Husband said production on the show began late last year. He said the kids have shown a lot of dedication by attending rehearsals before and after school.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_RHS-Play-6.mp3With the opening date quickly approaching, Husband was asked what next year’s show will be. He said it was too early to say exactly what he has in store, but he said he has some ideas.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/0403_RHS-Play-7.mp3Originally slated to debut this past weekend, The Rawlins High School production of “Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief,” will be held on April 7th and 8th. Show time is set for at 7:00pm, in the RHS Fine Arts Auditorium. Admission is free.
March 31, 2023 |
Photo – Memorial Hospital of Carbon County – Bigfoot99 file photo
Financial challenges face the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County, but the CEO is hopeful about the future.
At the March 7th County Commissioners meeting, the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer Ken Harman told county commissioners the hospital needed money. Harman said millions of dollars of unpaid medical bills have left MHCC with nearly empty coffers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_MHCC-1.mp3Speaking to Bigfoot99, Harman said residents of Carbon County have the misconception that the hospital is entirely taxpayer funded. Unfortunately, Harman said, that is not the case.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_MHCC-2.mp3Harman said patient money is used to fund nearly every aspect of the hospital. To continue offering service in the area, Harman said MHCC needs to be reimbursed for medical care.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_MHCC-3.mp3Before he took over as CEO in 2019, Harman said medical bills were not always correct or sent out regularly. He said hospital staff have spent the past three years developing a better billing process. Harman said another way the hospital is improving collections is to have patients pre-pay for anticipated medical procedures.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_MHCC-4.mp3Harman said the hospital will work with people on payment options. If someone is unable to cover their medical bill, Harman said a no interest loan is available.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_MHCC-5.mp3Harman said the hospital is working with patients to understand the cost of their medical service and create a path towards repayment. He said the new policy benefits both the hospital and patients.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_MHCC-6.mp3Harman said the new payment policy appears to be working. He said most patients appreciate having options. However, the hospital CEO said a small number of people still refuse to pay. He said they don’t understand the hospital is a business and, like any business, it relies on a steady source of income to stay afloat.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_MHCC-7.mp3Harman said the hospital is working with an accounting company out of Tennessee to ensure medical bills go out on time and with the correct information. He said he uses a local debt collections agency when patients fail to pay up. Since the old way of collecting money wasn’t working, Harman said a complete retooling of how the hospital handled billing was necessary.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_MHCC-8.mp3Harman said the hospital typically receives 60 cents on every dollar sent to collections.
Harman said the new payment policy removes a lot of stress from both patients and providers. With a clear idea of what they will owe and a plan for repayment, patients can feel more comfortable using the hospital’s services.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_MHCC-9.mp3A new way of thinking was needed to keep the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County financially viable. According to CEO Ken Harman, his new billing policy appears to be working. He said the hospital is bringing in revenue that normally would have been written off.
March 31, 2023 |
Photo – Crying Easter Bunny Emoji – Courtesy Google Images
Lingering snow drifts in Encampment and Riverside has forced organizers to cancel the annual Easter Egg Hunt.
Unusually heavy snowfall this winter has left its mark. Snowpack in the Upper Platte River Valley is 133% of average. With so much snow still on the ground, the Encampment Riverside Volunteer Fire Department has canceled the Easter Egg Hunt this year.
Encampment Town Clerk and Treasurer Doreen Harvey explained the park is too dangerous for the kids and the dozen or so volunteers hosting the event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_Egg-Hunt-1.mp3Harvey said this is the first time the Easter Egg Hunt has been canceled since she began working for the town around 20 years ago. When asked why the event wasn’t simply moved indoors, Harvey said no one considered the option. The town canceled its order for 360 eggs and prepared to donate the candy to the Encampment K-12 School.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0331_Egg-Hunt-2.mp3The children of Encampment and Riverside will have to wait until next year to search for treats left behind by the Easter Bunny. At least the kids will still be able to enjoy the Easter candy.
March 31, 2023 |
Photo – White House – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Biden administration, on Thursday, proposed a radical overhaul of the way public lands are managed, adjusting priorities to what the White House says are ecosystem health, recreational access and climate resilience.
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso took a dimmer view. “In the 1980s extremists used tree spikes to try and stop responsible management of public lands. In 2023 they use decrees from Washington,” Senator Barrasso said in a statement Thursday.
The overhaul comes in the form of a proposal, dubbed the Public Lands Rule, to be posted on the Federal Register, opening a 75-day public comment period. Officials said they welcome comments to craft a final rule.
The measure drew praise from some environmental groups and Democratic lawmakers, and rebukes from ranchers.
The 88-page rule directs the Bureau of Land Management to “protect intact landscapes, restore degraded habitat, and make wise management decisions based on science and data.” The move signals a policy shift that puts conservation “on an equal footing” with traditional land uses in accordance with the BLM’s multiple-use mandates.
Senator Barrasso took a dimmer view of what’s underneath the flowery language. Wyoming’s senior senator said in a statement, “Today’s announcement undermines the law’s multiple-use requirement for Bureau of Land Management lands. Wyoming families depend on access to public lands for energy and critical mineral development, grazing, forest management, and recreation. The Biden Administration’s extreme unilateral action will kill multiple use. This is a clear violation of the law. I will do everything in my power to stop this proposal.”
Radical groups, like the Center for Biological Diversity, said in a statement that the rule does little more than restate what’s in law already.
Advocates for the livestock industry blasted the proposal from the opposite direction, claiming it would “completely upend” the BLM’s multiple-use mandate.
As of Thursday night, the proposed rule, which would provide an over-arching framework for promoting “ecosystem resilience on public lands,” had not been published in the Federal Register.
March 30, 2023 |
Photo – Seal of Carbon County – Bigfoot99 file photo
Carbon County has received the first tranche of money from a nationwide class-action lawsuit involving opioids.
In July of 2021, three of the major pharmaceutical companies responsible for distributing addictive opioid medication settled over 3,000 class-action lawsuits. McKesson, Amerisource Bergen, and Cardinal Health agreed to pay $26 billion in damages over the course of 25 years.
The money was awarded to each state and distributed to counties and towns affected by the manufactured opioid crisis. Carbon County was the first county in Wyoming to sign onto the lawsuit. County Attorney Ashley Davis said the first round of payments has been received.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Opioid-Settlement-1.mp3Davis said in 2018, a personal injury lawyer named Jason Ochs reached out to the commissioners about joining the class-action lawsuit. Davis said the state’s Attorney General at the time, Peter K. Michael, wasn’t interested in the case until additional municipalities enrolled.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Opioid-Settlement-2.mp3Ochs agreed to represent the county with the stipulation that he would only be paid if the case was won. The county signed a memorandum of understanding, or MOU, with the state for a 65/35 split of the settlement. The state would take 35% with the remaining 65% of the money being distributed among the participating counties and municipalities.
Attorney Davis said another large settlement from Teva, a company specializing in manufacturing generic drugs, is on the way. She said Ochs has requested a new MOU which would give municipalities a larger portion of the next settlement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Opioid-Settlement-3.mp3Attorney Davis asked if the board agreed with the terms of the new MOU. Commissioner John Johnson said he was thankful for Ochs giving Carbon County credit for initiating Wyoming’s participation in the class action lawsuit. He said he supported having the state receive a smaller share.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Opioid-Settlement-4.mp3The board said it approved of the new MOU. Attorney Davis said she would tell Ochs and have the agreement ready for them to sign by next month.
With the first payment in hand, the county must now figure out the most effective way to spend the money. Attorney Davis said several agencies have already reached out to her asking about funding. She said the settlement has restrictions on how the money can be used. The county attorney suggested the commissioners establish an oversight taskforce.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Opioid-Settlement-5.mp3Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones said she agreed with Davis’s suggestion. Jones said the committee should be small, no more than 3 to 5 people, and Sheriff Alex Bakken and Attorney Davis should be members. The committee would take requests from other agencies and make recommendations to the commissioners. The board of commissioners will have the final say over how the money is distributed. Commissioner Johnson asked to be included on the taskforce. Chairwoman Jones said it’s up to the members to decide how the committee should be run.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Opioid-Settlement-6.mp3The Board of Carbon County Commissioners agreed the opioid lawsuit settlement money should be used for prevention. Mental health and treatment services will be the focus of the funding oversight committee.
March 30, 2023 |
Photo – Senator John Barrasso – Bigfoot99 file photo
Wyoming’s two senators and a bipartisan majority in the U.S. Senate have squared off against President Joe Biden after the White House resurrected an Obama-era protections of small streams, wetlands, and other waterways.
The senators called the Biden administration’s protections an environmental overreach that harms businesses, developers and farmers.
The senate on Wednesday used the Congressional Review Act to block recently enacted executive branch regulations. The vote was 53-to-43 with four Democrats and an Independent, Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, joining Republicans in favor of the resolution.
“Wyoming doesn’t need the federal government telling us what to do with our water, farms, ranches, and land. But the Biden administration’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule puts Washington in control of everything from ponds to prairie potholes,” Senator John Barrasso said in a statement.
The vote is the latest round in a long-running fight over the definition of “waters of the United States”, which establishes the breadth of the Clean Water Act’s protections.
Senator Barrasso said the WOTUS rule was a terrible idea during the Obama Administration, and it hasn’t improved with age.
Senator Lummis said “an irrigation ditch is not navigable water and should not be under the jurisdiction of the federal government.”
Democrat Joe Manchin of West Virginia said, “The overreach, basically, it’s unreal.”
In early March, the Republican controlled House of Representatives approved the resolution 227-198.
In December, the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers repealed the Trump Administration rule that scaled back protections enacted during the Obama era. Republicans have targeted it courts and in Congress. Republicans have won legal challenges in Texas and Idaho recently, dealing a blow to the Biden Administration’s case.
The U.S. Supreme Court also is considering a related case brought by an Idaho couple. The High Court heard arguments in Sackett v EPA in October and a decision is expected in the next few months.
Wednesday’s 53-43 vote included four Democrats and one independent joining Republicans pushing back on the Biden Administrations rule. In addition to Machin, the Democrats who crossed over include Jon Tester of Montana and both senators from Nevada, Jacky Rosen and Catherine Cortes Masto.
March 30, 2023 |
Photo – Map of future National Heritage Area – Courtesy Haas & Lovejoy
Carbon County Commissioners weigh creating national heritage area.
At last week’s board meeting, Commissioner Travis Moore said Vernon Lovejoy, of Hass and Lovejoy Protected Area Advisors, presented a proposal to create a federally recognized national historic area in Carbon County. Commissioner Moore said the idea of the project, called Pathways in the West, is to bring more visitors to the area.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Natl-Heritage-Area-1.mp3Dr. Glenn Haas works with Lovejoy and is assisting with the project. He explained why the area is perfect for a nationally designated heritage site.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Natl-Heritage-Area-2.mp3Commissioner Moore said if the county received federal approval for the historic area, a board of directors would be created to oversee the project. Dr. Haas explained that even though the federal government controls the national parks program, the board of directors would consist of locally elected individuals. He said no one would lose autonomy over their land.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Natl-Heritage-Area-3.mp3Commissioner Moore said one aspect of Lovejoy’s presentation really changed his perception of the project. He said Lovejoy showed him how having a nationally recognized area could increase visitation ten-fold.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Natl-Heritage-Area-4.mp3Commissioner Moore asked for a letter of support from his fellow commissioners for the Pathways in the West National Heritage Area. He said nothing is set in stone, but with tourism being so important to the county, it would be wise to investigate something with the potential of bringing in so many visitors.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Natl-Heritage-Area-5.mp3Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones asked Moore if this was a new idea. Commissioner Moore said it has been explored back in the late 1980’s. He said the idea had local endorsement, but didn’t advance through the federal government. Moore said now seemed like the time to revisit the project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Natl-Heritage-Area-6.mp3In his presentation, Lovejoy showed the borders of the national heritage area running north to Casper and south to just below Rawlins. Moore said because the project is still in the early phase, adding or subtracting towns would be a simple matter.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Natl-Heritage-Area-7.mp3Commissioner John Espy said Carbon County offers a one-of-a-kind variety of activities and industries in Wyoming. He said he was concerned the federal designation would shackle the land into a single use.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Natl-Heritage-Area-8.mp3Chairwoman Jones asked Commissioner Moore to include the board’s concerns about federal overreach in his letter of support. Dr. Haas explained what happens next.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Natl-Heritage-Area-9.mp3Dr. Haas said certain pitfalls will need to be addressed if the project comes to fruition. He said an unexpected influx of visitors would bring its own set of problems that would need to be addressed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0330_Natl-Heritage-Area-10.mp3President Ronald Regan signed the law allowing the creation of national heritage areas in 1984. As of the reporting of this story, 62 federally recognized areas exist in 36 states, but the Pathways in the West National Heritage Area would be the first in Wyoming.
March 29, 2023 |
Photo – Cherokee Road Annex Intent Public Notice – Courtesy Carbon County Road and Bridge
Cherokee Road is slated to become Carbon County’s newest officially designated road.
County Officials have been working for 24 years to annex Cherokee Road. The private access road, west of Rawlins, was established by the developer when the area was subdivided for housing in the 1970’s.
The process to bring the private road under the county umbrella began in 1999. At the time, easements were obtained from landowners, but were never filed.
From 2005 to the present, the county has continued to maintain the road, which is now an officially established school bus route. In that time, the county never passed a resolution formally adopting the road. To continue having county road crews maintain the stretch of dirt track, the county has begun the process to legally annex it as County Road 451.
The annexation process is not fast or easy. County roads must be 60 feet wide and 30 feet on either side of the center of the road. To ensure County Road 451 meets the width standard, property owners with land adjacent to the proposed road may lose a section of their land.
To properly compensate landowners, the county contracted with an outside consultant to perform a land appraisal on the disputed property.
At last Tuesday’s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, County Attorney Ashley Davis said the appraisal, which was needed before moving forward with the annexation, has been received. She asked the commissioners to allow her to set up a hearing with landowners.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Cherokee-Road-1.mp3The legal hearing would give affected landowners a chance to show how the creation of the county road would negatively impact their property value. Attorney Davis said the board isn’t beholden to using the amounts set in the appraisal.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Cherokee-Road-2.mp3Attorney Davis said a hearing examiner would be present to conduct the meeting. Davis said a month’s notice would be needed to ensure everyone affected by the Cherokee Road annexation was made aware.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Cherokee-Road-3.mp3Earlier in the year, the county placed an ad in the local newspaper informing the public about its intentions. Detailed measurements were given for each section of the proposed county road. Landowners were given until February 3rd to file an objection or damage claim.
Sharon Watson owns a home on Cherokee Road. Watson said the survey company placed marker posts 10 feet from the edge of her property. She asked the commission if her property line would end at the marker or the middle of the road. Attorney Davis said Watson already has an easement agreement with the county for 20 feet of her land along the roadway. Davis said she thought the marker designated the extra 10 feet. The county attorney said the additional property required is inside an already established easement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Cherokee-Road-4.mp3Watson asked how the value of her property was established. Attorney Davis said the survey company took into consideration the land Watson already allowed the county to use and deducted it from the total.
Watson said she knew how much overall land she would be losing to the county but wasn’t sure what the value was. Attorney Davis said the survey company revisited land which was disputed before the February 3rd deadline.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Cherokee-Road-5.mp3Watson said she heard the county would conduct a completely new survey. The commissioners said that was not true. Attorney Davis said the marker posts are in the correct place.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Cherokee-Road-6.mp3Watson asked if it was too late to file a damage claim with the county. Attorney Davis said it was up to the commissioners if they would entertain more claims so long after the deadline. Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones said the time has passed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Cherokee-Road-7.mp3Watson said she really wasn’t too concerned about the property since she would no longer be paying taxes on it. She confirmed the county was not redoing the survey and sat down.
Another Cherokee Road resident, Arturo Soto, said he hadn’t received written notice about the damage claim deadline. He said he understood he was too late to file a claim, but said he has metal fencing on the property that would need to be removed. Soto asked the board what his options were. Attorney Davis said he wouldn’t need to do anything until after the road was formally adopted.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Cherokee-Road-8.mp3Soto asked if removing and relocating the fencing on his property would fall on him if the road was annexed. Chairwoman Jones confirmed that Soto would be responsible for his fence.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Cherokee-Road-9.mp3The commissioners asked attorney Davis if she needed a motion to allow her to arrange a hearing between the landowners and the county. Davis said she needed a date before a motion could be made. She said she would consult with the hearing examiner to determine when the meeting could occur. More information should be available by the next county commissioner’s meeting on April 4th.
March 29, 2023 |
Photo – Senator Cynthia Lummis – Bigfoot99 file photo
U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis used her seat on the Senate Banking Committee, Tuesday, to push back against Federal Reserve regulators who may force Wyoming banks to cover for their involvement in recent high-profile failures, including the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank.
Lummis said the blame for the meltdowns lay at the feet of the regulators who were asleep at the wheel and appearing before the committee on Tuesday.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Sen-Lummis.mp3Regulators told the Senate committee that the Silicon Valley Bank’s failure was a “textbook case of mismanagement”, signaling that banks with more than $100 billion in assets need tougher oversight.
Senator Lummis noted the importance of ensuring Wyoming community banks are not forced to foot the bill and comply with burdensome new regulations because of the recent failures.
March 29, 2023 |
Photo – Moose in HF Parco Sinclair Refinery grounds – Courtesy Ron Bjork of Rawlins
A moose was on the loose at the Sinclair Refinery.
The largest member of the deer family, moose are a common sight in Carbon County’s mountains. On Monday morning, a young bull moose was spotted in an uncommon location: The Sinclair Refinery.
The moose was spotted on the refinery grounds sometime around 5:30 am, Monday morning. Greg Hiatt, the Wyoming Game and Fish Wildlife Biologist for Sinclair, arrived shortly afterwards. Hiatt said by that time, refinery workers had calmly herded the moose into a safe area.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Sinclair-Moose-1.mp3Hiatt said he was able to successfully fire a tranquilizer dart into the moose. Afterwards, with the help of several refinery workers, Hiatt was able to hoist the several hundred-pound moose onto an awaiting truck. The animal was driven out of town and woken up in a more secluded location. Hiatt said the whole experience went according to plan.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Sinclair-Moose-2.mp3Hiatt said he and East Rawlins Game Warden Linnea Sailor had the idea to lead the animal out of the refinery. One look at a satellite image of the area made them reconsider their options. Hiatt said sedating the moose was the only safe way to remove it from the premises.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Sinclair-Moose-3.mp3The moose has been monitored by Wyoming Game and Fish since December. The animal had moved north from the Little Snake River Valley until it found itself in Sinclair. Hiatt said the migration path isn’t too uncommon for a young bull moose.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Sinclair-Moose-4.mp3Hiatt said before Monday, people reported seeing a moose near Fort Steele. The Game and Fish biologist said it was likely the same animal.
In summer, moose tend to congregate in green areas near a water source. In winter, moose come down from the mountains in search of willow trees. Hiatt said the moose may have wandered into Sinclair in search of food.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Sinclair-Moose-5.mp3The place Hiatt relocated the moose to had a stand of willow nearby. He said when the animal woke up, it began eating the trees. The wildlife biologist said he was worried the moose would mistakenly try to walk onto the icy river.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Sinclair-Moose-6.mp3Hiatt said in his 45-years with the Wyoming Game and Fish department, he has only seen one other moose stray into town. He said moose go where they think food and water are.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0329_Sinclair-Moose-7.mp3An angry moose is extremely dangerous. Hiatt said he was thankful the Sinclair workers were able to keep the animal calm until he could safely relocate it.
March 28, 2023 |
Photo – WYDOT Logo – Bigfoot99 file photo
On Friday, Governor Mark Gordon announced the new director of WYDOT.
Governor Gordon selected Darin Westby as Interim Director of the Wyoming Department of Transportation.
Westby was one of five names submitted to the Governor from the Wyoming Transportation Commission to fill the position following the retirement of Luke Reiner.
Westby has served as Director of the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources since 2016 after serving fifteen years with the agency and 18 years in State government. He has more than 28 years of experience in the environmental, architectural, engineering, construction and management fields. Governor Mark Gordon said Westby will be a good fit as the search for a permanent director continues.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Gov-Gordon.mp3Westby earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Wyoming and holds a Civil Professional Engineering license and a certificate in public management.
“Darin’s background in state government, his experience as a professional engineer and with contracting, and his previous work managing a complex state agency complete with law-enforcement personnel, made him the ideal candidate for this critical interim position,” Governor Gordon said in a statement.
The Governor also announced that Dave Glenn will serve as Acting Director of Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources. Glenn has worked for the agency since 2015 and currently serves as Deputy Director of State Parks and oversees the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Office.
Westby will serve as Interim Director while the Wyoming Transportation Commission conducts a search for a permanent director.
WYDOT is the State of Wyoming’s largest agency, with roughly 2,000 employees. Its broad responsibilities include maintaining highways, providing law enforcement on the roadways, supporting aviation, and providing motor vehicle and driver licensing services.
March 28, 2023 |
Photo – Flag at Half-Staff – Bigfoot99 file photo
At the direction of the President of the United States, Governor Mark Gordon has ordered both the United States and Wyoming flags to fly at half-staff immediately in honor and remembrance of the victims of the tragedy in Nashville, TN.
Three students and three adults were shot and killed during the attack perpetrated by a 28-year old female who allegedly identified as a man.
Nashville Police Chief John Drake said the killer left behind a manifesto.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Nashville-Police.mp3Three students at the Christian school and three adults were shot and killed during the attack. The killer was confronted and killed by law enforcement.
Here in Wyoming, flags should be flown at half-staff until sunset March 31, 2023.
March 28, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Water Tank, site for new radio repeaters – Bigfoot99 file photo
A State Homeland Security grant will allow Platte Valley’s first responders to communicate more effectively.
During last Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Sergeant Tyler Christen requested a resolution to allow him to apply for a law enforcement grant from the state. Sergeant Christen explained how the 2023 State Homeland Security Program Grant will bring Saratoga and Encampment emergency responder communications under one umbrella.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Police-Radio-1.mp3Speaking to Bigfoot99, Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris said the grant will be used to purchase WyoLink compatible radio equipment. WyoLink is the state’s public safety communications system. Chief Morris said radio repeaters will be installed on the water towers south of town to allow his department to stop using outdated communications gear.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Police-Radio-2.mp3The Saratoga PD has been upgrading their radio equipment, piece-by-piece, for around five years. Chief Morris said the repeaters outside of town are the final part of the project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Police-Radio-3.mp3Having a reliable radio communications system is important for an area as large and undeveloped as Carbon County. Three of the five Saratoga police vehicles are equipped with mobile repeaters. Chief Morris said with the stationary repeaters installed on the water towers, emergency personnel would have far more reliable coverage when responding to remote calls.
The Saratoga town council approved Sergeant Christen’s request to approve resolution 2023-09, the 2023 SHSP Radio Upgrade From Dispatch to the Water Tower.
March 28, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Interim Justice Center – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Interim Justice Center building is now vacant. Services were moved back into the nearly completed Carbon County Courthouse. The Board of Carbon County Commissioners discussed what to do with the three-decade old structure.
While lengthy remodeling was being done on the Carbon County Courthouse, the county’s court services were moved into a temporary location at 812 East Murray Street in Rawlins. With the renovations nearly complete, the circuit and district courts have returned to the old courthouse. During last Tuesday’s BOCC meeting, County Clerk Gwen Bartlett asked the commissioners to authorize the sale of desks and other furniture remaining in the empty Interim Justice Center.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Interim-Justice-Bld-1.mp3Bartlett said she would allow department heads to do a once over, to ensure none of the items were still needed. A motion allowing the sale was made, seconded, and passed.
Clerk Bartlett said the commissioners need to think about what to do with the Interim Justice Center now that it is no longer needed. She said no other agencies have asked to move into the 33-year-old structure. The county could repurpose the building or sell it.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Interim-Justice-Bld-2.mp3Bartlett was referring to the county’s Building and Grounds Manager Mike Newbrough.
Clerk Bartlett said the Sheriff’s Office could use the garage space to house evidence. She also suggested law enforcement training could be done in the building. Sheriff Alex Bakken said he didn’t think keeping the building open, just for his department, was a wise financial decision.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Interim-Justice-Bld-3.mp3The commissioners asked Emergency Management Coordinator Lenny Layman if he could use the building as his headquarters. Layman said he was not interested in moving into the former Interim Justice Center.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Interim-Justice-Bld-4.mp3An EOC is an Emergency Operations Center. Layman said upgrading the building into a functional EOC would cost the county over $100,000. He said the location wasn’t ideal either, with it being in the middle of a residential area. Layman said he would prefer to continue working out of the Road and Bridge building. The Emergency Manager said being in a county owned building would eliminate the air of independence his department has.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Interim-Justice-Bld-5.mp3Clerk Bartlett said Fire Warden John Rutherford could use the former Interim Justice Center to eventually house the county’s Fire Prevention District. Carbon County IT Director Matt Webster said the building would need a complete technological overhaul before another agency moved in.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Interim-Justice-Bld-6.mp3The county bought the Interim Justice Center to create a place for criminal justice activities while the courthouse was being remodeled. The commissioners said having everyone out of the old courthouse during construction saved the county almost $8 million dollars.
Clerk Bartlett said the courthouse renovations have postponed any new specific purpose tax funded construction by at least 10 years. She said the county should find a use for the building or sell it.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0328_Interim-Justice-Bld-7.mp3Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones asked Commissioner Byron Barkhurst to investigate selling the Interim Justice Building. Commissioner Barkhurst owns a local reality company and would have specific knowledge about the price the county could expect to receive for the building. He said he would have the information by next month’s BOCC meeting.
March 27, 2023 |
Photo – Governor Mark Gordon – Bigfoot99 file photo
Governor Mark Gordon flew into Saratoga on Saturday to formally thank and welcome home local veterans. The governor singled those who served in the Viet Nam War, saying they were denied a proper welcome home by a nation that wanted to forget and move on following their service.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Welcome-Home-1.mp3The Governor’s visit marked the 50th anniversary of the end of the Viet Nam War. About four dozen local veterans, along with their family members, attended the ceremony Saturday morning at Angus England Post #54 in Saratoga.
The official day of welcoming was codified in state law in 2012 during the 61st legislative session. It set March 30th of each year as the date the last number of U.S. combat troops returned home from the Vietnam War in 1973. In his remarks Saturday morning, the Governor recalled the divisive nature of the war had divided the nation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Welcome-Home-2.mp3About four-dozen veterans attended the ceremony Saturday morning. Many served during the Viet Nam era. Major General Greg Porter saluted them for their sacrifice. Maj. Gen. Porter talked about how Viet Nam-era veterans were asked to put away their uniforms and pack away their memories and experiences upon their return home. The nation had moved on from the experience, Porter said, even if those who had served had not.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Welcome-Home-3.mp3One of the veterans who attended Saturday morning’s event was Dick Perue, who served as a communication and information center specialist in the Wyoming Air National Guard from 1959 to 1965. Perue, who later worked as publisher of the Saratoga Sun, had prepared a printed handout which featured some of the surviving veterans from Saratoga.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Welcome-Home-4.mp3One of them is Bill Rathbun, who turned 97 years old this year, who served during World War II where he served with Company B 127th Combat Engineer Battalion. Teense Wilford served in the Army from 1961 to 1963 as a Specialist, 4th Class, where he patrolled the Berlin Wall in 1962.
Younger veterans attended Saturday’s ceremony, as well. One of them was Joe Parsons who served in the U.S. Marine Corps following the attacks on the nation on Sept. 11, 2001. Parsons, who joined the local conservation district in 2012, after serving four years in the Marines, said it is important for the nation not to forget those have served and those who have sacrificed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Welcome-Home-5.mp3The ceremony in Saratoga was the first, of four, for Governor Gordon. The Governor and the First Lady were on the ground in Saratoga for about an hour. They flew out to attend similar “Welcome Home” events in Cody, Powell and Hulett.
March 27, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Rawlins governing body is working to update the city’s 25-year-old employee policy handbook.
The rules governing city employees were written in 1998 and last updated 15 years ago. The city’s Human Resources Director Stefanie Paulson is engaged in modernizing the employee handbook. The council needs to approve any alterations before the new manual is officially adopted.
At a workshop session held before last Tuesday’s city council meeting, Paulson prepared to go through the first batch of proposed revisions. She acknowledged the changes were numerous and said she didn’t want to overwhelm the council members.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Employee-Policy-1.mp3Paulson said most of the employee handbook was rewritten to make it easier to understand. To move the workshop session along, Vice-mayor Steve Sanger instructed Paulson to focus on brand new policies. Paulson said the employee manual now contains a section defining who qualifies as a seasonal employee.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Employee-Policy-2.mp3Another addition to the employee handbook is a section expanding the definition of harassment to include threats made by the public. Paulson said she also updated workplace violence guidelines in the same way. Under the new policies, city employees would be protected from being harassed or threatened by members of the public.
Paulson said the city will offer Occupational Safety and Health Administration training to help prevent injuries. Paulson said the manual now contains clear instructions on how an employee can safely return to work after being hurt on the job.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Employee-Policy-3.mp3Vice-mayor Sanger said each department has different definitions of what light duty consists of. The HR Director said every request will be handled on a case-by-case basis using a doctor’s recommendation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Employee-Policy-4.mp3Councilman Chris Weisenburg said the policy needs to clearly state that light duty isn’t guaranteed. Some departments aren’t able to offer easier labor positions. Paulson said she will double-check the handbook to ensure it contains that stipulation.
Paulson moved into the city’s new drug and alcohol policy. If a city employee is suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol during their shift, the employee handbook states the city manager must have a trained police officer perform an impairment test. Councilman Weisenburg asked why the suspected offender wouldn’t immediately be required to submit a drug test without having another city employee involved. He said it shouldn’t be up to the police department to determine if someone is drunk or high on the job.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Employee-Policy-5.mp3Councilman Weisenburg said the policy might create a future problem. He said a time could come when a police officer would be expected to determine if a fellow officer was violating the rule.
Weisenberg said to avoid conflict, the city manager should go right to a testing facility if they suspect an employee of a drug or alcohol violation.
Mayor Terry Weickum said the Board of Carbon County Commissioners has a well-defined drug and alcohol policy. He suggested Paulson incorporate the county’s rules into the Rawlins employee handbook.
Paulson moved on to the city’s stance on remote and teleworkers. She said remote work is a new work concept. The manual needed a section specifically addressing who would be offered off-site employment and when it was appropriate to do so.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Employee-Policy-6.mp3Paulson said requests for remote work would be evaluated by the city manager. Mayor Weickum asked what would happen if a city employee were injured at home while on the clock. Paulson said she was waiting to see how related court cases went before putting anything in the policy handbook.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Employee-Policy-7.mp3Next, the HR Director explained the city’s proposed vacation buyback program. Paulson said city workers were saving too much vacation time. The new policy will allow the city to pay employees for unused time off if the employee agrees to take a vacation later in the year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Employee-Policy-8.mp3Paulson said vacation buyout requests need to be submitted by the end of the year. At the time the employee requests a buyout, they would need to schedule time off, equal to or greater than what they’re asking to be paid for.
In January, the city would cut a check for the accrued time off with the taxes removed. The employee would also have to have a remaining 80 hours of vacation time to be eligible for a buyout.
The discussion of time off continued. Paulson said police officers and dispatchers accrue vacation time at a different rate than other city employees because they must work on holidays.
Police Chief Mike Ward said officers and dispatchers do not receive holiday pay. Instead, they are offered a different day off as a substitute. Chief Ward said it didn’t seem like an equal trade off. Councilman Weisenburg said when he works on a holiday, he receives extra pay and not extra vacation time.
The Councilman asked if other departments receive extra pay when crews are called out to work during a holiday. City Manager Tom Sarvey said overtime would be paid only if they exceed a 40-hour work week. Councilman Weisenburg said another day off is not a fair alternative for missing that special time with family. He suggested instituting a city-wide holiday pay schedule.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0327_Employee-Policy-9.mp3Chief Ward said other police departments around the country usually pay time and a half for holidays. The council members instructed Paulson to revise the city’s holiday compensation policies.
Paulson said the council had gone through about half of the proposed changes by the end of the work session. The HR Director will meet with the council members again to discuss more updates to the city’s employee policies.
March 24, 2023 |
Photo – South Entrance to Carbon County Courthouse – by Matt Copeland of Bigfoot99
The newly remodeled Carbon County Courthouse will open next month, following 14 months of work. The work has transformed the historic late 1930’s building to enhance the original stair wells and other spaces while adding modern touches to offices.
Photo – Courthouse stairwell – by Matt Copeland
Local media outlets were given a sneak peek this week. County Clerk Gwen Bartlett led reporters on a tour, more than a month and a half before the official Grand Re-opening on May 12th. The remodel is functionally complete, with most of the offices already occupied. Bartlett said the courthouse overhaul is part of a larger refresh of county buildings paid for by the 6th Penny Tax.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Courthouse-1.mp3The Carbon County Courthouse was built between 1938 and 1940. The idea of the project was to bring the 80-year-old building up to modern standards without sacrificing its old-fashioned styling. Bartlett said she was thankful citizens chose to allow the county to collect money for the much-needed upgrades.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Courthouse-2.mp3Visitors to the Carbon County Courthouse now enter through the south lobby and pass through a newly installed metal detector and baggage scanner before being allowed to continue into the building.
The Sheriff’s Office is back in the courthouse. The law enforcement agency was shoehorned into the county jail when the remodel began. What was once the land records office and County Commissioners meeting room, has been completely redone to give the Sheriff’s Office its own space. Sheriff Alex Bakken said he is happy with his new office.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Courthouse-3.mp3Photo – Sheriff’s office – by Matt Copeland
Before the remodel, the public defender, county attorney, and Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation officers were located in the Carbon Building. Now, all the county’s criminal justice activities will be under one roof. Two newly constructed holding cells will house inmates while they wait to see a judge. Bartlett said the Wyoming Supreme Court provided $100,000 in grant funding to bolster security for the building.
Photo – Holding cells – by Matt Copeland
The circuit court room has been drastically remodeled. Originally on the first floor, the entire circuit court has been moved up to the second floor and given much more space. The old circuit court room was much smaller, with a pillar in the middle of the room. Despite being a completely new room, the circuit court still retains the 1940’s light fixtures. Bartlett said the old lights were in storage for nearly two decades.
Photo – Circuit courtroom – by Matt Copeland
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Courthouse-4.mp3A picture of a light fixture will be on the Bigfoot99 website. Bartlett said glass globes that attach to the bottom of the lights won’t be put in place until after work is complete. No one wanted to risk breaking one of the five remaining original globes during construction.
Photo – Original light fixture – by Matt Copeland
The circuit court offices are located where the county clerk and title departments used to be. Court records are stored in large rolling shelving units. The district court and county attorney offices also contain the same type of movable shelves. Bartlett said floors needed to be reinforced to handle the weight of all the documents.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Courthouse-5.mp3On the 3rd floor, the district court room is basically unaltered. Bartlett said everything remained the same besides technology upgrades and some repurposed rooms.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Courthouse-6.mp3The county attorney’s office occupies the entire 4th floor and is only accessible by the public via the elevator. Bartlett said the county jail used to be on the top floor. She said it was difficult to remove the cell bars when the remodel began.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Courthouse-7.mp3Most the county’s legal work will be done in the courthouse. Bartlett said management duties will remain in the Carbon Building Courthouse Annex.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Courthouse-8.mp3No changes were made to the exterior of the building and landscaping will wait until after the snows melt.
The courthouse remodel balances the original mid-20th century architectural aesthetic with modern office space needs and designs. The main hallways will retain the original multi-colored tiles and marble wainscotting while modern glass and metal partitions guide visitors to their destination. The elevators have been refurbished but remain true to the pre-war design. The entire building has been given a fresh coat of paint. What could be salvaged from the past has been cleaned and returned to where it was.
Photo – Original flooring – by Matt Copeland
The Carbon County Courthouse grand re-opening is Friday, May 12th, at 11:00 am. The address is 415 West Pine Street, in Rawlins. Hors d’oeuvres will be provided.
March 24, 2023 |
Photo – Teton County District Courthouse – Courtesy Wyoming County Commissioners Association website
A Teton County judge on Wednesday temporarily blocked a state abortion ban that the governor allowed to become law without his signature last Friday. The court decision makes abortion legal in the state for now.
District Court Judge Melissa Owens granted the order, blocking the law’s enforcement for at least two weeks, as the court considers a lawsuit filed against the state by abortion providers. Only one clinic in Wyoming performs abortion procedures. It’s located in Jackson.
The Life is a Human Right Act bans abortions at all stages of pregnancy, except in cases of rape, incest, or to save the mother’s life.
An amendment in the Wyoming Constitution says adults have a right to make their own health care decisions. To dodge the constitutional provision, lawmakers defined abortion as “not health care” in the legislation.
In her oral decision, Judge Owens said, “The state cannot legislate away a constitutional right. It’s not clear whether abortion is health care. The court has to then decide that.”
Governor Gordon, when he allowed the bill to become law last week without his signature, said the people of Wyoming should decide the issue, not the courts or the legislature.
In a written statement, the Governor said, “If the Legislature wants to expressly address how the Wyoming Constitution treats abortion and defines health care, then those issues should be vetted through the amendment process laid out in Article 20 of the Wyoming Constitution and voted directly on by the people.”
House Bill 152 passed by wide margins in both chambers during the 2023 session. The third reading vote in the House on February 8, was 46-16. The anti-abortion legislation passed third reading in the Senate on March 1 with a vote of 25-5 with one abstention. The House concurred with the slightly altered senate version 49-10 with three abstentions. The enrolled act did not include an effective date as lawmakers anticipated the lawsuit.
March 24, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming State Capitol Building – Bigfoot99 file photo
Two anti-ESG bills died during the 2023 legislative session, but Wyoming has joined Florida and 17 other states to fight so-called “Woke Capitalism.”
The Alliance Against Environmental, Social, and Governance calls for the participating states to develop policies that will undermine ESG investment policies used by some of the nation’s biggest fund companies.
The first line of attack is divesting state pension funds from ESG linked investments. The goal is to undermine what the alliance called the “proliferation of woke ideology” in investment funds.
Member states are laying out individual strategies, as well. The movement follows President Joe Biden’s veto of a bill that would have barred the Labor Department rule allowing leftist cultural values, such as anti-carbon sentiments, to guide investment decisions rather than fiduciary concerns.
During an appearance Thursday before the Legislature’s Management Council meeting, State Treasurer Curt Meir laid out the broad outlines of how Wyoming will work the system. Meir said the state will use a formula developed by Florida, which will bind investment managers to contract.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Wyoming-Treasurer-1.mp3The state treasurer said the policy change will be added to the State Loan and Investment Board’s agenda for a vote at its next meeting.
The statement released by the 19-state coalition pushing back against the White House over the ESG issue says, “We, as freedom loving states, can work together and leverage our state pension funds to force change in how major asset managers invest the money of hardworking Americans. Ensuring corporations are focused on maximizing shareholder value, rather than the proliferation of woke ideology.”
Treasurer Meier said the strategy is showing results already. Some investment funds, including Black Rock, are dialing back their progressive-oriented investment strategies to keep the state funds in their portfolios.
The Wyoming state senate passed two anti-ESG bills this session, but the House did not hold a hearing on either one, after the House Appropriations Committee recommended the bills do not pass.
Meanwhile, a 25-state lawsuit against the Labor Department and Joe Biden over the administration’s ESG rule is continuing in the courts.
March 24, 2023 |
Photo – Shelter Dogs – Bigfoot99 file photo
Inmates at the Wyoming State Prison will soon be able to give back to society while serving time. The Rochelle Animal Shelter is teaming up with the Department of Corrections so inmates can train shelter dogs.
During Tuesday’s Rawlins city council meeting, Police Chief Mike Ward and DOC Unit Manager Christi Kelly asked for a Memorandum of Understanding between the animal shelter and the prison. Chief Ward explained the program to the council members.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Dog-Program-1.mp3Chief Ward said the city won’t incur any additional cost from the program. The dogs would be taken from the shelter and housed in the prison. He said both the guards and inmates want the project to succeed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Dog-Program-2.mp3Unit Manager Kelly said only trusted inmates will participate in the program. Prisoners without disciplinary actions for six months and no gang affiliations will be allowed to handle the animals. Kelly said eight inmates will train an equal number of dogs.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Dog-Program-3.mp3The inmates must complete a six-month instructional course and train three dogs before they become certified handlers. Unit Manager Kelly said the program motivates the prisoners to behave.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Dog-Program-4.mp3Vice-Mayor Steve Sanger asked what happens to the dogs after their training is complete. Unit Manager Kelly said only animals with good temperaments will be chosen for the course. When the dogs are finished with their training, they will receive a diploma.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Dog-Program-5.mp3The goal of the program is to make the animals more likely to be adopted. Unit Manager Kelly said the Rochelle Animal Shelter will receive regular updates on the dog’s progress. A few weeks before graduation, the shelter can begin promoting the dog on social media. Kelly said the prisoner will create a list of tricks and commands the dog has learned.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Dog-Program-6.mp3The DOC Unit Manager said another goal of the program is to have the animals find homes before the training is complete. Once the dog has graduated, it will go directly to its adopted family.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0324_Dog-Program-7.mp3Kelly said prison staff are usually the first to adopt the dogs out of the program.
Mayor Terry Wickum and Councilman Chris Weisenburg expressed their support for the program. The mayor said he has experience in animal training programs and finds the experience beneficial. The city council unanimously voted to allow the Rochelle Animal Shelter and the Wyoming Department of Corrections to sign the MOU.
March 23, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
A proposed ethics ordinance scheduled to be considered on first reading by Rawlins City Council this week was removed from the agenda by amendment at the start of the meeting.
The proposed 8-page ordinance lays out rules of “Ethics and Professional Conduct Policy for Elected Members of the Governing Body”, as well as appointed officials and city employees. The draft provides various definitions covering a range of topics, such as misuse of office, conflict of interest, and nepotism.
The draft ordinance also provides a remedy for infractions, including removal or censor of public officials, and presents procedures for removal of any councilman “for cause.”
Councilman Darril Garner is presenting the ordinance as an amendment to Chapter 70 of Rawlins City Code.
Before council approved the agenda for Tuesday’s meeting, typically one of the first actions the governing body takes after the Pledge of Allegiance, Garner asked to have his ethics amendment struck from the agenda.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_Ethics-Ordinance.mp3Section 1 of Title 1 of Rawlins City Code is the first ordinance on the city books. It requires any ordinance or resolution presented to the Governing Body to be reviewed first by City Attorney “for legal compliance and sufficiency.”
The mayor and the three members of the council who were present at the meeting approved the amendment to remove ethics ordinance from meeting agenda without further discussion.
March 23, 2023 |
Photo – BLM map of possible bike park – Courtesy City of Rawlins
A mountain bike park could be coming to Rawlins. Many legal questions remain before it can be built, though.
The city’s recreation director, Jason Sehon, is in the early stages of planning a bicycle recreation area west of the city. During Tuesday’s city council meeting, Sehon asked for approval to continue working on the project. Sehon said the foothills of Rawlins Peak is a great place for bicycle riding. He described how he envisions the park.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_Bike-Path-1.mp3Sehon said the concept for the bike park came from Parks Superintendent Tyrell Perry. They both met with a representative from the Bureau of Land Management to see what it would take to get the park built.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_Bike-Path-2.mp3Sehon said the mountain bike park was discussed during several Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee meetings. He said BLM’s Outdoor Recreation Planner Andrew Willams was enthusiastic about the idea and attended a March meeting to talk about the proposed plan.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_Bike-Path-3.mp3Sehon said the bike park would be a great addition to the city. He said travelers on I-80 would be enticed off the highway to use the trail system. The rec director said the park could also be used for bicycle competitions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_Bike-Path-4.mp3Sehon said BLM would take the lead if the trail system came to fruition. He said the park is within the scope of BLM’s plan for additional recreation services in the city. The federal agency would handle the necessary diligence and regulations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_Bike-Path-5.mp3Sehon said the city would be expected to drum up public support for the project and seek out additional grant opportunities. Councilman Chris Weisenburg pointed out that part of the land in question is owned by the county. He asked city attorney Gwendolyn Wade about the legalities of the plan. Attorney Wade said a three-way agreement of some kind between the city, BLM, and Carbon County would be needed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_Bike-Path-6.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum asked attorney Wade if it was legal to spend city money to improve county property. Wade said she would need to look farther into the matter, but some sort of agreement would be necessary before anything could happen. She recommended Sehon have representatives from the county attend future Parks and Rec Committee meetings.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_Bike-Path-7.mp3Attorney Wade said she thinks establishing a joint powers board to oversee the mountain bike park would be the best way to move forward. Mayor Weickum asked the council to make a motion to allow Sehon to continue working on the project. The council unanimously voted yes.
March 23, 2023 |
Photo – Wolf – Bigfoot99 file photo
A new Colorado law requiring wolf reintroduction on the western slope by the end of the year has exposed a deepening cultural divide between the metro/Front Range area and the rural parts of the state.
In northern Colorado, resentment and contempt bubbled over at a meeting in Craig last week as Moffat County ranchers expressed their concerns with the wolf reintroduction plan.
The meeting last Wednesday in Craig was hosted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to take public comment. Ranchers were not shy about offering their opinions, which were mostly negative. At one point, a biologist with the federal agency reminded the crowd that Colorado voters approved the plan—not state or federal wildlife officials.
82-year-old Moffat County rancher Ron Lawton offered a straightforward response about who is responsible for bringing wolves back to the rural areas of Colorado. “Somebody ought to introduce a bill that the people who voted to introduce these wolves ought to be taxed to the point they pay for it,” Lawton said.
Ranchers said any livestock losses they incur because of gray wolves will never be compensated fully. They also noted they are paying additional taxes for wolf introduction and will incur additional expense and time to guard their herds.
Just over the Wyoming border in North Park, ranchers in the Walden area have been dealing with wolf depredations to their herds and to their dogs for over a year now. The pack that set up shop there originated in Wyoming, in Teton County. The ability of the wolves to travel far and wide is one of the concerns expressed at the March 15th meeting.
Backed largely by Front Range voters, Proposition 114 narrowly passed in 2020. The ballot measure mandates that the state reintroduce gray wolves west of the Continental Divide by the end of 2023. West slope ranchers expressed anger that those in Colorado’s liberal urban areas, which supported reintroduction, will not have to deal with the consequences of their vote.
March 23, 2023 |
Photo – City of Rawlins Water Treatment Plant – Bigfoot99 file photo
The computerized system that controls the water supply in Rawlins, from the treatment plant to the taps in the homes of residents, will receive a desperately needed upgrade thanks to a nearly million-dollar grant.
The city has applied for a $962,951 grant from the Wyoming Community Development Authority to replace the aging computers and controllers on its water system. City Engineer Austin Gilbert said the water treatment plant is using very outdated equipment.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_SCADA-1.mp3The city’s water treatment plants are using old versions of computerized monitoring systems, called SCADA. Gilbert explained what SCADA means.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_SCADA-2.mp3The SCADA system monitors the city’s water treatment plants, automatically adjusting and sending alerts when a problem arises anywhere in the chain. Gilbert said almost the entire SCADA system needs a refresh because the network is failing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_SCADA-3.mp3Gilbert said the system is so obsolete that it is hard to find spare parts. He said the city has had to resort to using online auction sites to purchase backup equipment of potentially dubious quality.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_SCADA-4.mp3Rawlins residents know all too well how delicate their water infrastructure is. Last summer’s water main breaks drained the city’s tanks and left residents without drinkable water. Gilbert said the SCADA system is another vulnerable part of the water supply chain.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_SCADA-5.mp3With the SCADA system down, city workers would need to be present at every pump house and treatment plant to physically hit switches and turn valves. Gilbert said that is why it’s important to have an operational SCADA system. He said the city has hired an engineering firm to determine the most financially responsible way to make the system more reliable.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_SCADA-6.mp3The city spent $200,000 of its own money to hire an engineer to design an entirely new SCADA system. Gilbert said because the installed equipment is so out-of-date, brand-new hardware would be needed for the entire system. He compared it to building a computer. You wouldn’t put a 30-year CPU on a modern motherboard.
Gilbert said about half of the $963,000 Community Development Grant would cover the cost of updating the water treatment and pre-treatment plants. Gilbert said the wastewater plant is part of the design, but will have to wait for another funding opportunity.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_SCADA-7.mp3The other half of the grant will go toward bonds and insurance, wi-fi and computer improvements, and administrative costs. Gilbert said the entire project should take about a year and a half to complete.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0323_SCADA-8.mp3Gilbert said the project was only possible because of the hard work of city employees. Last November, workers went door-to-door to ensure residents completed the WCDA survey, putting the city into contention for the nearly million-dollar community development block grant.
March 22, 2023 |
Photo – Veteran Saluting Flag – Bigfoot99 file photo
Governor Mark Gordon will visit Saratoga Saturday morning to thank and welcome home veterans, surviving spouses and family members. Veterans from all eras are welcome.
The Governor and First Lady Jennie Gordon will fly into Shively Field and then ground shuttle to Angus England Post #54 in Saratoga shortly after 8 a.m. Major General Greg Porter and Veterans Commission Chairman Jake Jacobs also will attend the “Welcome Home.”
Post #54 Commander James Olguin says the event is open to all veterans and families, no matter when or where you served.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Welcome-Home-1-1.mp3The flyer announcing the visit states, “It is never too late to do the right thing.” The official day of welcoming veterans home was codified in state law in 2012 during the 61st legislative session for March 30 of each year, the date U.S. combat troops would have set foot on Wyoming soil after returning home from the Vietnam War in 1973.
The first Wyoming Veterans “Welcome Home” Day was celebrated on the 40th anniversary of that date.
Anti-war sentiment in parts of the country was loud and sometimes bitter. Not all, but some, Viet Nam-era veterans were shunned or vilified for their service. The military service of Korean War-era Veterans was sometimes diminished, as well, because of the ambiguous way the conflict ended.
Saturday marks the 10th anniversary of the celebration in Wyoming. The event has grown over the last decade to include all veterans to receive a thank you from a grateful state.
Olguin said the doors to Post #54 will open by 7:30 Saturday morning to accept attendees.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Welcome-Home-2.mp3Governor Gordon’s office confirmed that his schedule calls for him to be at Post #54 in Saratoga from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. It will be the first of four stops the governor will make on Saturday at Wyoming Veterans Ceremonies around the state. The second is in Cody, the third in Powell, and the fourth in Hulett.
March 22, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Police Department Patch and Badge – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Rawlins, police are waiting for an autopsy report to provide answers about a man found dead in the city on Monday.
The investigation began when Rawlins police received a call of a dead body on the ground in a lot near the corner of Koontz and McMicken Streets.
The cause of death was not immediately apparent. Police Chief Mike Ward said investigators are waiting on the results of an autopsy.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Rawlins-Death-1.mp3Although Chief Ward did not release the name of the victim, he confirmed that deceased man is from Rawlins and has family in town.
Chief Ward said without an obvious cause of death, an autopsy is required to verify how the man died. Chief Ward said no weapons or drug-related items were found near or on the body.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Rawlins-Death-2.mp3Witnesses said the area was cordoned off as police searched for evidence in the vicinity where the body was found on Monday.
March 22, 2023 |
Photo – Start of Housing Development – Bigfoot99 file photo
Communities on both sides of Interstate in Carbon County are working to attract more visitors and permanent residents. Plans are in play, in both Rawlins and Saratoga, to address the need for more housing and hotels.
During March 7th‘s Rawlins city council meeting, Carbon County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Yvonne Johnson said a hotel company wants to build a new facility in the city.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Building-01.mp3Johnson said she is meeting with Cobblestone Hotels, a chain specializing in rural lodging, to open businesses in the area. She said Rawlins, Saratoga, and Hanna all need more rooms for rent.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Building-02.mp3Johnson said Saratoga’s hotel is already in the planning stages. Triple D Construction is designing and building the facility. Owner Bryan Drake said the 21-room hotel will be built on the same lot as his new office; the corner of Bridge Avenue and Southeast River Street.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Building-03.mp3Drake said the hotel has been in the works for around seven months. Construction is slated to begin in the fall or early next year, depending on the weather.
The hotel isn’t the only addition Drake has planned for Saratoga. He said construction of a new automatic car wash and a wild game processing plant are being considered.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Building-04.mp3Drake said a need for lower cost homes exists in Saratoga. Drake said he is ready to turn his entry level housing idea into reality the moment the state gives him the go ahead.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Building-05.mp3Drake said he receives positive feedback whenever he brings his entry-level housing idea to the planning commission. He said Saratoga will need homes that workers can afford, if people want the town to keep growing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Building-06.mp3Drake said the town has plenty of lots with derelict houses on them which could be replaced with low-cost housing. Before that could happen, the town council would need to direct the planning commission to create an ordinance allowing the town to label a plot as abandoned. After legally annexing the land, the town could tear down the neglected structures allowing Drake to put new homes in their place. Drake said he feels like people support his plan until it comes time to act.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Building-07.mp3Drake’s idea for entry-level housing is in the hands of the planning commission.
Rawlins is on track to have a hotel complex built in the coming years. Hanna is also in talks about constructing a hotel. Triple D Construction should break ground on Saratoga’s new lodging in the coming months. Drake said the hotel is only the beginning of what he would like to build in town but did not offer any details.
March 22, 2023 |
Photo – Hanna Library – Courtesy Carbon County Library System Website
Carbon County commissioners on Tuesday agreed to take over the obligation of paying the gas bill for the Hanna library, which is part of the county system. Commissioners also had questions regarding the library’s future location.
Hanna Mayor Jon Ostling was present during Commissioners meeting to answer questions about his town’s library branch. Mayor Ostling said he noticed the library, which is housed in a small trailer owned by the county, needed an unusual amount of natural gas to heat.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Hanna-Library-1.mp3After the discovery, Mayor Ostling asked Library Board Executive Director Maria Wenzel to alter the memorandum of understanding, or MOU, between Hanna and the county. As the MOU is written, the county owns the library building, but the town of Hanna is responsible for paying utilities. Mayor Ostling said because the gas bill continues to rise, he wants to change the MOU to limit the amount of money the town spends to heat the structure, which he said residents rarely use.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Hanna-Library-2.mp3Ostling suggested having the library’s utility bills put in the county’s name. Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones said her understanding was, that in the past, the county had taken over utility payments for all the branch libraries. She said the county Buildings and Grounds Manager Mike Newbrough supports having all the utility bills run through his office.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Hanna-Library-3.mp3Newbrough is going to install wireless thermostats in the Hanna library to monitor the temperature in the building. In the meantime, Chairwoman Jones said Newbrough requested copies of the library’s utility bills to determine if the energy company had raised its rates.
Commissioner Byron Barkhurst asked if a rupture in the gas line, in or around the library building, had occurred. Mayor Ostling said he hadn’t investigated himself but he expected it would have been brought to his attention if a gas leak was detected. Commissioner Barkhurst suggested Ostling investigate whether a possible leak had occurred.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Hanna-Library-4.mp3Chairwoman Jones said the issue of utility bills must have been missed when the county established the library system. She said having utilities in the county’s name would allow Newbrough to investigate the billing issues and perform required maintenance as needed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Hanna-Library-5.mp3The commissioners passed a motion to have County Attorney Ashley Davis investigate the existing MOU. Chairwoman Jones asked Davis if a new agreement would be required to allow the county to take over the library’s gas and electric bills. Davis said it would be necessary to at least modify the MOU, not only to address the utilities, but also to put into writing what would happen if Hanna closed the library.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Hanna-Library-6.mp3Chairwoman Jones asked about moving the library into the recreation center. Mayor Ostling said he was uncertain if the shelving needed would fit into one of two available rooms. The Hanna mayor said moving the library into the rec center would give more people access to the catalog.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Hanna-Library-7.mp3County Clerk Gwen Bartlett asked Mayor Ostling if he had a timeline for moving the library. She said it may not be worth it to have attorney Davis draft an MOU addressing the library building if the town was going to move it. Mayor Ostling said other projects have taken priority over the library.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0322_Hanna-Library-8.mp3Mayor Ostling said he’ll have a more solid timeline by summer’s budget hearings. The Hanna mayor said he intends to move the library; he just doesn’t know when. He asked the commissioners to trust his word that it’ll get done.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Library-09.mp3Chairwoman Jones instructed attorney Davis to draft a new MOU giving the county responsibility for the Hanna library’s utility bills. The county would need an updated agreement with Hanna whether the move occurs or not. Under the revised MOU, the town of Hanna would still be expected to provide water and sewer to the library building and financially contribute to the Carbon County library system. The amount of money Hanna will pitch in has yet to be determined.
March 21, 2023 |
Photo – Cloud Seeding Plane – Courtesy North Dakota State Government
Cloud-seeding operations over the Sierra Madre Mountains in Carbon County were suspended last week because of concerns over the amount of snowpack in the Little Snake River drainages this late in the season.
The Wyoming Water Development Office announced the shutdown yesterday in a news release. The WWDO said the snow-water-equivalent levels at SNOTEL sites, monitored by the National Resources Conservation Services, “exceeded operational criteria forcing the immediate suspension of cloud seeding operations.”
The cloud seeding season began on November 8 in the Sierra Madres, the Snowy Range, and the Wind River Mountains. Operations will continue in the Snowies and the Wind Rivers, unless snow-water equivalent values exceed suspension criteria prior to April 22.
The threshold for suspension is 85% of median, April 1 value, for each of the targeted mountains and increases daily to 140% of the April 1 value by April 1. Barry Lawrence, Deputy Director of the WWDO, said the Sierra Madres hit a point of no return last week.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_Barry-Lawrence.mp3On March 20, 2023, the snow-water equivalent, for the nine SNOTEL sites monitoring the Little Snake River, were reporting an SWE of 156%.
The 20 sites that monitor the Upper North Platte River reported an SWE of 128% of median.
The Wind River has 11 SNOTEL sites and reported an SWE of 115% of median.
Cloud-seeding in the Snowy Range and Sierra Madres ran as an experimental, ground-based research program, from 2005 to 2014. The pilot program collected enough data to convince the legislature to fund a fully operational program. The WWDO now uses airplanes to inject storm clouds with silver iodide particles to promote the formation of snow in storm clouds. Two ground-based generators in the Sierra Madres augment the process, which costs the state around $1 million a year.
The goal is to increase mountain snowpack incrementally to improve stream flows in the North Platte and Little Snake River basins.
March 21, 2023 |
Photo – Spring Avenue Bore Pit – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Saratoga, work will resume as early as next week on the Spring Avenue Waterline Replacement and Repaving Project.
Lewis and Lewis, the contractor hired for the job, has been racking up late fees, called liquidated damages, of $1,750 a day since they failed to meet last October’s deadline. The contractors left town when freezing temperatures made it impossible to continue the project.
Representatives from Lewis and Lewis met with the town yesterday to discuss when work will resume. Project Superintendent Justin Reed and supervisor Rod McCormick told Mayor Chuck Davis and Impact Joint Powers Board Chairman Richard Raymer the job will restart next week, weather permitting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_Spring-Ave-Work-1.mp3Yesterday was the first official meeting between the contractors and the new town council. Construction Manager Caleb Tygum explained how his crew plans to handle the job. Tygum said McCormick will finish replacing the pipe while Reed will oversee the remaining work.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_Spring-Ave-Work-2.mp3Lewis and Lewis had replaced the waterline from 4th Street to the east side of Wyoming 130 before the job was paused last fall. In preparation for the winter shutdown, Lewis and Lewis didn’t pave Spring Avenue, but left the roads passible to local traffic. With work resuming, the town has completely closed the roads. Mayor Davis said the Saratoga Police Department will keep an eye on the street to ensure people heed the barriers. He told the contractors to ask Streets Department Supervisor John Lasko for any assistance needed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_Spring-Ave-Work-3.mp3T O Engineers is the firm hired by the town to design and oversee the Spring Ave project. T O’s Josh Morris asked Tygum when their asphalt supplier would resume operation. Tygum said WYDOT projects required the asphalt plant to restart early. He said he’ll receive pavement April 3rd with paving crews arriving in town a few weeks later.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_Spring-Ave-Work-4.mp3Raymer suggested the town and Lewis and Lewis communicate mainly through Morris since his firm is handling the engineering. Morris agreed but said the contractors should ask Lasko for anything they need from the town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_Spring-Ave-Work-5.mp3The contractors and the town were having weekly meetings prior to the winter shutdown. With a new crew and a focus on communication, everyone agreed the meetings were no longer necessary.
The contractors are confident that, once work resumes, the job will be finished within a few weeks.
March 21, 2023 |
Photo – MHCC – Bigfoot99 file photo
A new payment policy at Memorial Hospital of Carbon County may give the facility some breathing room as it continues to face financial challenges.
Like many cash-strapped rural medical providers, the hospital in Rawlins operates on a tight budget. At the March 7th Carbon County Commissioners meeting, MHCC’s Chief Executive Officer Ken Harman said the hospital has less than one-week of operational reserves.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_MHCC-1.mp3The $16 million in unpaid bills by patients lies at the center of the hospital’s financial dilemma. To better manage cash flow, MHCC is changing its management software provider to a company called Cerner. Harman said medical vendors, including Cerner, are allowing the hospital to pay in installments.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_MHCC-2.mp3To receive an injection of cash, the hospital’s board of trustees and Senator John Barrasso have applied to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for COVID relief funds. Harman said FEMA money is now on the way.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_MHCC-3.mp3In a cost-cutting move, the hospital is dialing back the use of traveling health care providers. The temporaries fills gaps in the hopsital’s workforce, but the temporary care providers come at a high price. Harmons said the facility is looking to cut five travelers from staffing positions.
Harman also said administrators have made significant changes in the way the hospital collects payments for patient care. In addition to working with debt collectors to recoup outstanding bills, Harmon said the hospital now offers financing options to uninsured or underinsured patients who are unable to afford medical care.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_MHCC-4.mp3MHCC can no longer rely on people reimbursing the hospital after treatment, including surgeries. Harman said for the hospital to remain financially healthy, the facility must collect upfront payments or have a payment plan in place.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_MHCC-5.mp3Harman said the installment plans, in the form of a car loan, have been a hard sell for county residents. He said the hospital has been pushing patients to finance medical procedures, even if the borrower defaults, because the federal government will compensate the hospital for a percentage of the loan. Harman said it’s a win-win situation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_MHCC-6.mp3Harman said the hospital has seen an increase in self-insured and underinsured patients. He mentioned that Sinclair refinery now provides insurance to fewer employees. The refinery’s new policy has meant that the hospital is seeing more uninsured patients. Harman said financing may not be a popular option, but the new billing policy will strengthen MHCC.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_MHCC-7.mp3Harman said changes to the way MHCC collects money are required. He said he remains optimistic, but he wanted to provide the commission with an honest assessment of the state of the hospital.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0321_MHCC-8.mp3Harman told the commission the hospital has an interim Chief Financial Officer. He also asked the commissioners for a meeting to discuss building maintenance costs. No date was set for the meeting, but the commissioners and Harman agreed it should take place before summer’s budget hearings.
March 20, 2023 |
Photo – Governor Gordon Signing Documents – Bigfoot99 file photo
Wyoming made national headlines this weekend by joining other red states in drawing a hard line against abortion after the fall of Roe v Wade.
Governor Mark Gordon Friday night signed into a law a bill passed by the legislature prohibiting abortion pills in the state. The governor also allowed a separate measure restricting abortion, House Bill 152, to become law without his signature.
In a statement, Gordon expressed concern that HB 152, also known as Life is a Human Right Act, will result in a lawsuit that will “delay any resolution to the constitutionality of the abortion ban in Wyoming.”
Earlier Friday, plaintiffs in an ongoing lawsuit filed a preemptive challenge to the new law if the governor did not issue a veto.
While touting his history of signing pro-life laws, the governor noted that the legislature’s piecemeal approach of tweaking the abortion law each session delays a final legal decision from the courts.
The governor said a better approach would be to allow voters to decide, with a constitution amendment settling the issue.
In his statement, Governor Gordon said, “If the Legislature wants to expressly address how the Wyoming Constitution treats abortion and defines health care, then those issues should be vetted through the amendment process laid out in Article 20 of the Wyoming Constitution and voted directly on by the people.”
The governor said he understands both the legislature’s intent to improve Wyoming’s pro-life legal framework as well as the legislative findings included in Life is a Human Rights Act. The Governor added that they are not a “substitute for an expression of the people when it comes to constitutional matters.”
The plaintiffs in the ongoing lawsuit, filed in Teton County, over last year’s abortion law filed their preemptive lawsuit over the Life is A Human Rights Act on Friday, before the governor allowed it to become law without his signature. The new law, which repeals last year’s abortion trigger legislation, bans abortions, except in cases of rape and incest, or if the mother’s life is in danger.
The abortion bill the governor did sign is Senate File 109, which prohibits chemical abortions.
Wyoming’s ban on abortion pills would take effect in July, pending any legal action potentially delaying its implementation. The effective date of the ban on all abortions in HB 152 is not specified in the bill.
In another win for cultural conservatives, the governor allowed legislation barring biological males from competing in women’s high school sports to become law without his signature. The governor said that while he supports and agrees with the overall goal of fairness in competitive females sports, he described the ban as “overly draconian.”
The culture flashpoint bills were part of the Governor’s final actions related to the 2023 General Legislative session.
March 20, 2023 |
Photo – NPVMC Entrance – by Matt Copeland of Bigfoot99
Despite numerous delays, the North Platte Valley Medical Center is nearing completion and an opening date has been set.
The clinic has blown past other opening dates because of construction setbacks and supply chain issues. Originally slated to begin operation last August, construction setbacks have pushed the opening date farther and farther back. During a tour in December, hospital administrators said they were shooting for an early January opening. During last week’s open house event, CEO Jeff Mincy announced the new opening date of the North Platte Valley Medical Center is April 24th.
The latest delay was required because heating and air conditioning tests weren’t completed in time for a state inspection. Even after the inspection was completed, more items needed to be corrected to maintain compliance with specific hospital building codes.
During Wednesday’s open house and sneak peek, the hospital contained more medical equipment and furniture than was on hand during December’s tour. The facility appears nearly ready to accept it first patients.
The tour began in the lobby where local artist Lori Kostur’s three-panel mural of Lake Marie is now a permanent display. The clinic’s Social Media Specialist Lauren Creagan said the work is meant to have a calming effect on patients and visitors.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_Valley-Clinic-1.mp3The physical therapy room now has wheelchair accessible exercise machines. Patient rooms have beds, and the dining area is complete.
Photos – Art and Dining Area at NPVMC – by Matt Copeland
Also, over the last few months, state-of-the-art imaging equipment has been installed in the radiology department. In the ultrasound room, Chief Operating Officer Eva Marie Popelka explained what the ultrasound machine is capable of doing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_Valley-Clinic-2.mp3The hospital has an x-ray machine that can also perform fluoroscopy. Via a series of real-time images, fluoroscopy uses brief pules of an X-ray beam to show organs and tissues working in real time, like a video, on a computer screen.
Photos – NPVMC Imaging Equipment – by Matt Copeland
Popelka showed off the hospital’s CT machine. She said the device scans up to 64 layers but can be upgraded to 128 if necessary. The clinic’s operations officer said the Computed Tomography machine can be used to diagnose a variety of medical conditions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_Valley-Clinic-3.mp3Images produced by the CT scanner are uploaded onto a private medical network for review by a radiologist. Popelka said doctors in Casper can examine the images remotely.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_Valley-Clinic-4.mp3The North Platte Valley Medical Center has a 3D mammography machine, which was donated by a breast cancer survivor. Popelka said 3D scans will help doctors more easily identify diseases.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_Valley-Clinic-5.mp3The hospital’s lab isn’t fully equipped yet. Most of the equipment is in the Platte Valley Clinic waiting to be moved into the hospital when it opens next month. The move is expected to take two days.
Once relocated at the new hospital, the Platte Valley Clinic will contain five exam rooms and three health care offices. Large windows in the exam rooms overlook the mountains surrounding the valley, but HIPAA regulations require blinds to be installed for patient privacy before the clinic opens.
Residents of the Saratoga Care Center will move into a specially designed long-term care wing in the hospital. Residents with dementia or other cognitive impairments will be prevented from wandering away from the facility by proximity locks triggered by the patient’s bracelet.
Photos – NPVMC’s Long Term Care Room and Proximity Lock – by Matt Copeland
Mincy said the hospital is nearly fully staffed. Physical therapists, nutritionists, and other care providers were on hand during the tour to talk about the services the hospital will offer. Mincy said he is still looking for housekeepers and a supply clerk.
Mincy said specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, have expressed interest in practicing medicine at the hospital. He said he has received credentialing applications from specialists, but he’s holding off on scheduling space in the Specialty Clinic until the hospital receives its license number from the state.
Wednesday’s Sneak Peek of the North Platte Valley Medical Center showed a hospital nearly ready to open its doors. Hospital administration is expected to move in next week. More services will be relocated into the building as the late April opening date approaches.
March 20, 2023 |
Photo – Conservation Trees – Courtesy SER Conservation District Website
At long last, spring arrives today. Time to start thinking about getting outside and working on your lawn and garden. If you need help with your trees, or just need general planting advice, the Medicine Bow Conservation District has you covered. Master Arborist, Bill Scott, will be on hand April 5th to answer all your tree related questions.
The Medicine Bow Conservation District is holding a tree workshop next month. Clerk and Programs Assistant Sunshine Solaas said Bill Scott will give people advice on how to care for trees. She said Wyoming’s unique soil requires specialized planting techniques.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_SERC-Workshop-1.mp3Bill Scott is the owner of Learn Trees in Casper. He is a board-certified master arborist. Solaas said she recently attended a Wyoming Groundskeepers and Growers Association conference where Scott was a speaker. She said she was so impressed by Scott’s gardening knowledge that she wanted him to share it with Carbon County residents.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_SERC-Workshop-2.mp3Solaas said Scott taught her a lot about caring for trees. She said a common mistake people make is planting their trees too low in the earth. Solaas said too much moisture is bad for the tree’s health.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_SERC-Workshop-3.mp3Solaas said oak, linden, chokecherry, and cottonwood trees are best adapted to our area’s climate and soil composition. She said because the conservation district sells trees, it is important to know what tree is best for your environment. She said Scott has an entertaining method of teaching people that knowledge.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_SERC-Workshop-4.mp3The Mullen fire of 2020 burned over 176,000 acres and thinned plant life. The lack of trees to soak up water in the burn area has sparked concerns about potential flooding. Solaas said besides flood protection, trees look nice and provide an alternative to traditional wooden snow fences.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_SERC-Workshop-5.mp3Besides public workshops, the Medicine Bow Conservation District also sells trees. Solaas said to speak with a conservation district employee to find a tree which best suits your yard’s specific conditions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0320_SERC-Workshop-6.mp3April 5th’s tree workshop will be held at the Medicine Bow Conservation District building at 510 Utah Street from 9:00 am to 3:00pm. Lunch will be provided. Admission is $20 a person.
Rescheduled because of the snow, today is the Medicine Bow Conservation District’s winter workshop. Author and professional speaker Debra Benton will give a presentation on managing conflict in your business. Also, Nutritionist Jeremiah Sperfslage, will talk about identifying deficiencies in ranch cattle nutrition. Admission is $20 and lunch will be provided.
The phone number for the Medicine Bow Conservationist District is 307-329-2221.
March 17, 2023 |
Photo – WHP Patrol Vehicle – Bigfoot99 file photo
Drugs were at the center of the manhunt in Elk Mountain Tuesday afternoon.
More details have emerged about the hot pursuit through town for three men after they drove their car into the town. The car was then abandoned after it was disabled by tire spikes laid out by Highway Patrol troopers.
The incident began with a traffic stop on Interstate 80. Sergeant Jeremy Beck with the Highway Patrol said while the trooper was talking with the driver alongside the interstate, a passenger and another occupant commandeered the vehicle and fled the scene.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Elk-Mtn-Chase-1.mp3Sgt. Beck said the suspects were able to avoid several spike strips during the pursuit. After leading police up and down I-80, reversing directions a few times, Sgt. Beck said the suspects headed into Elk Mountain.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Elk-Mtn-Chase-2.mp3Bad choice. Obviously, the men aren’t locals. Elk Mountain has few exits, especially after the hard winter we’ve experienced. Sgt. Beck said the suspects drove through town and onto a county road. Sgt. Beck said the driver turned around and, while heading back into town, ran over a spike strip, which disabled the getaway car.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Elk-Mtn-Chase-3.mp3After the vehicle came to a stop, the two suspects fled into the town. Helicopters were deployed, and the suspects were found after a 30-minute search. All three people, the driver and the two people in the car were taken into custody. Sgt. Beck said the suspects attempted to dispose of hundreds of pounds of pot during the pursuit.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Elk-Mtn-Chase-4.mp3During the pursuit, Elk Mountain residents were asked shelter at home behind lock doors. The school went under lockdown procedures. No one was injured during the chase and subsequent manhunt. Sgt. Beck said while pursuits are rare, they are a regrettable part of the job.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Elk-Mtn-Chase-5.mp3The identities of the men and where they are from had not been released at the time this story was written.
March 17, 2023 |
Photo – Snow Moving Equipment – Courtesy Carbon County Road and Bridge
Carbon County snowplow crews are not in the business of clearing private roads, the board of commissioners told a snowbound citizen earlier this month.
During March 7th‘s Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Louie Stolns said snow drifts have made the roads into Mountain View Estates, northeast of Saratoga, impassable. He asked the commissioners to have the county plow the area.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Private-Road-1.mp3Stolns proposed having the county annex the private roads, making them the county’s responsibility. Road and Bridge Superintendent Kandis Fritz said it isn’t as easy as it sounds. The road must meet certain specifications before the county can provide maintenance. Fritz added that the road crews were already working overtime, dealing with existing roads in the county’s inventory.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Private-Road-2.mp3Stolns said he would keep the roads passable if he could rent the necessary snow removal equipment, but he said every place is out of stock. Commissioner Chairwoman Sue Jones said having county crews clear the road into Mountain View Estates would set an unwanted precedent, inviting similar requests to maintain other private roads. Commissioner Jones said residents, including Stolns, were given an opportunity to have the neighborhood’s roads taken over by the county decades ago, but they chose not to.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Private-Road-3.mp3Fritz agreed with Commissioner Jones. She said people living on remote county roads have been trapped for weeks because her crews have been busy fighting drifts elsewhere. Fritz asked how it would look if she prioritized clearing private roads before finishing the county’s streets. Commissioner Jones said the county’s hands are tied.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Private-Road-4.mp3The county is in the process of annexing Cherokee Road, west of Rawlins city limits. Stolns asked how hard the annexation process was. Commissioner Jones said it’s not a fast or easy undertaking.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Private-Road-5.mp3Fritz said a Saratoga resident had recently purchased a large piece of snow removal equipment from the county. Commissioner Jones offered to put Stolns in contact with the individual. Stolns said he knew the person, but was unaware he had the equipment. Commissioner Jones ended the meeting by telling Stolns he was better off leaving things the way they are.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Private-Road-6.mp3With change in the weather to warmer temperatures, county residents living on dirt roads likely are dealing with deep, greasy mud now more than snow.
March 17, 2023 |
Photo – Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Poster – Courtesy Platte Valley Drama Club
Children of Saratoga are putting on a play based on Roald Dahl’s most famous work.
Next month, Saratoga Middle/High School kids will perform their rendition of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the Platte Valley Community Center. Drama Club Coach Marie Christen said the production will feature the largest number of students she’s ever had participate in a play.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Chocolate-Factory-1.mp3Christen said the play is based on the 1971 movie version of the story, starring Gene Wilder. She said the kids have been rehearsing since December. While the play will contain some musical numbers, Christen said the kids won’t be required to sing on stage.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Chocolate-Factory-2.mp3On Monday, Christen will hold an open casting call for elementary school children. The younger kids will play small parts such as Oompa-Loompa’s. Christen said she’ll find a place for everyone who wants to participate.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Chocolate-Factory-3.mp3Parts in the play are also available to kids who don’t physically attend school. Christen said home school children are also able to audition. She said the Platte Valley Drama Club is considered an interscholastic activity.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Chocolate-Factory-4.mp3Christen said, for the first time, audience members can purchase Platte Valley Drama Club themed merchandise. She said clothing and other types of promotional material will be available during the show.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Chocolate-Factory-5.mp3The Platte Valley Drama Club’s free presentation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will be held in the theater of the PVCC. Christen said the children will perform four shows over the course of three nights.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Chocolate-Factory-6.mp3Auditions for elementary age kids will be held at the Platte Valley Community Center on Monday at 6:00pm. Do as the Oompa-Loompa doompety do and come see the play.
March 17, 2023 |
Photo – Collared Wolf – Courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife
The wolf pack over the state line in North Park, Colorado, has returned to its predatory ways. Two wolves, from the pack that were recently captured and re-collared, killed a working cattle dog and fatally injured a pet dog. The dogs belonged to two separate ranches near Walden early this week.
The ranches are four miles apart in southwestern Jackson County. Colorado wildlife officials say the dogs are the first domestic wolf kills by the splintered pack since November.
A working livestock dog was killed by wolves Monday morning. A family pet was euthanized after being injured by wolves early Tuesday.
Wildlife officers found wolf tracks in the vicinity and GPS collar data for both incidents indicated wolves were in the area during the time the dogs were attacked.
Greg Sykes is a foreman on a ranch in Jackson County. Sykes told Steamboat Radio that his dog Cisco was a registered border collie that he’d had for seven years as his working livestock dog.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Wolf-Kills-1.mp3Sykes said the attack on Cisco happened around 4 a.m. Monday morning, March 13th, when he let the dogs out. Cisco did not return but his Livestock Guardian Dogs did.
Cisco was found 30 yards from the house. Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials confirmed it was wolf kill. GPS data indicated that two of the recently collared wolves were in the area.
The next day, Roy Gollobith had his pet dog, Blaze, attacked by the wolves shortly after 6:00 a.m.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0317_Wolf-Kills-2.mp3He said he found a blood trail and wolf tracks about 10 feet from his house. The ranching family took Blaze to a vet in Laramie where he had to be euthanized because of the extensive injuries.
The two dogs are the first confirmed wolf kills in the area in four months. The first eight confirmed North Park wolfpack kills were located in the northeastern part of Jackson County.
The last four confirmed wolf kills, including the recent dogs, have all taken place in the southwest part of the county. Until Monday’s incidents, the last confirmed wolf depredation was Nov. 18th, on the Park Range Ranch, just north of where this week’s kills took place.
Five cows, four dogs and three calves have been confirmed killed by the North Park pack since the breeding male and female naturally migrated to the state from Wyoming and gave birth to six pups in spring 2022. Colorado Parks and Wildlife has paid $12,929.75 for eight confirmed depredations with other cases pending, according to the state wildlife agency. Other claims have been denied.
Colorado Wildlife officials said both dog owners will be compensated for their losses.
North Park ranchers believe the lull in depredations on cattle over the winter is largely due to the pack losing four of its members, making the killing of livestock more difficult for the survivors.
March 16, 2023 |
Photo – Hanna Recreation Center – Courtesy Carbon County Visitor’s Council
Despite rumors of its imminent demise, the Hanna Recreation Center appears to be alive and well, at least for now.
Staff changes at the Hanna Miners Memorial Park and Recreation Center may have led to a barrage of unfounded reports of its closing. Mike Armstrong, the former Hanna rec director stepped down in January. Carbon County Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones said Armstrong’s departure may have fueled rumors of the rec center closing its doors. Jones said Mayor Jon Ostling would need the support of the Hanna town council to shutter the recreation center.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0316_Hanna-Rec-Center-1.mp3Boys and Girls Club of Carbon County CEO Theresa Pacheco said she heard similar gossip. Pacheco recently opened a branch of the Boys and Girls Club in the Hanna recreation center. She said she asked Hanna officials for advanced notice about a closure. If the rec center closed, Pacheco said she would need to find an alternative meeting spot for the 27 kids that use the program.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0316_Hanna-Rec-Center-2.mp3Pacheco said closing the pool would make sense. Unconfirmed reports say Hanna has been having issues with leaking water and low attendance in the swimming facility.
Moving the Hanna’s library into the rec center has been unofficially considered. As reported previously, town officials are balking at paying the town’s share of the utility bill to heat the county-owned building that houses the Hanna branch library. The suggestion has been raised that money could be saved by moving the library to recreation center. People using library resources may be inclined to take part in other rec department activities, potentially increasing its usage.
As of the reporting of this story, Bigfoot99 reporters have not heard back from Mayor Ostling confirming or denying the rumors that closing the rec center is being considered.
March 16, 2023 |
Photo – Elk Mountain Exit off I-80 – Courtesy Google Images
In Elk Mountain, three men are in custody after leading Wyoming Highway Patrol on a wild chase through the town on Tuesday afternoon.
The school was locked down and residents were asked to shelter in place while Highway Patrol troopers searched for multiple suspects. Brett Larson said he, like other residents, received a reverse-911 call at home from town to shelter in place while the manhunt unfolded.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0316_Elk-Mountain-Chase-1.mp3Larson said he was told the three suspects fled from their vehicle and escaped into town. He said 30 minutes after being ordered to stay inside and lock his doors, he was informed the suspects had been apprehended. Larson said the manhunt was intense.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0316_Elk-Mountain-Chase-2.mp3According to Elk Mountain Elementary teacher Annie Lamoureux, the school was locked down for nearly an hour while Highway Patrol scoured the area.
Larson said one of the fugitive suspects was taken into custody near his home. He said the massive dragnet was an unusual occurrence in a town of less than 200 people.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0316_Elk-Mountain-Chase-3.mp3Calls to the Wyoming Highway Patrol have not been returned at this time. We’ll have more information as it is released.
March 16, 2023 |
Photo – Mugshot of Anderson – Courtesy Carbon County Sheriff’s Office
A family dispute led an Encampment man to allegedly use a bulldozer to destroy over $800,000 worth of cars and trucks.
Brian Anderson was arrested on Sunday, March 5th after Carbon County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a disturbance at the corner of 2nd Street and Barnett Avenue in Encampment. Sheriff Alex Bakken described the event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0316_Bulldozer.mp3Sheriff Bakken said Anderson allegedly used an 80,000 pound Caterpillar D8 Bulldozer to push five of his family’s vehicles into a pile. He said the nature of the argument is unknown and it is undetermined if drugs and alcohol were involved in the incident.
Photo – D8 Bulldozer – Courtesy Caterpillar Website
Anderson was released from the Carbon County Jail three days after his arrest.
March 16, 2023 |
Photo – Spring Avenue Bore Pit – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Saratoga, big earth-moving equipment has been parked along muddy and unpaved Spring Avenue, across from Town Hall, all winter. The big Caterpillars may be fired up soon. That’s the hope, at least.
The Spring Avenue Waterline Replacement and Paving Project contractors are coming to town to determine when work can resume.
The onset of winter forced the Spring Avenue Project contractor, Lewis and Lewis, to abandon the job until spring. With warmer weather coming, Mayor Chuck Davis said representatives from the company will meet with town officials to decide when work can begin.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0316_Spring-Ave-Work-1.mp3Lewis and Lewis began the project last summer and was supposed to have finished replacing the water lines before the school year started. Equipment delays and dewatering problems pushed the completion date back to Thanksgiving. When it became clear the new deadline wouldn’t be hit, Lewis and Lewis asked the town to allow them to leave for the winter. The contract between Saratoga and the contractor states that a financial penalty of $1,750 a day would be assessed until the job was finished.
The town council chose to hold Lewis and Lewis to the contract to ensure their speedy return. Mayor Davis said this year’s historic snowfall makes it unlikely the contractor will be able to resume work on the agreed upon date of March 20th.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0316_Spring-Ave-Work-2.mp3Mayor Davis said the meeting will be open to the public. He said representatives from the various groups involved in the project will be present to figure out when work may resume.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0316_Spring-Ave-Work-3.mp3The public meeting with the Spring Avenue Project contractors will be this coming Monday, March 20th, at the Saratoga town hall starting at 2:00pm.
March 16, 2023 |
Photo – Mullen Fire – Bigfoot99 file photo
Wyoming is the only western state to be omitted from the USDA and Forest Service’s 10-year strategy to combat wildfires across the American West. The state’s congressional delegation are not taking the exclusion lightly.
On Wednesday, U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis and Representative Harriet Hageman sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Forest Service Chief Randy Moore criticizing their agencies for failing to include Wyoming in the 10-year plan.
Wyoming is home to eight National Forests with over nine million acres of wilderness. Yet, Wyoming is the only Western state left off the list of states included in the 10-year federal plan to combat wildfires.
The federal plan was announced in January of this year. Wyoming was noticeably left off the maps and deleted from the speeches that Washington policy makers, like the Forest Service Chief made.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0316_Fed-Wildifre-Plan-1.mp3In their letter, the delegation also calls out the agency heads for excluding Wyoming membership from the recently formed, Congressionally-mandated, wildfire commission.
The letter states, “According to recent Forest Service estimates, more that four million acres in Wyoming are at either “high” or “very high” risk to catastrophic wildfire.” Over half of the at-risk acreages, 2.4 million acres, are on National Forests located in Wyoming.
The Wyoming delegation notes that the acreage identified as at risk include or neighbor Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, as well as their gateway communities. The at-risk areas also contain important watersheds that are part of the headwaters to the Colorado River.
Over the last five years, Wyoming has experienced numerous wildfires, including four that were severe enough to warrant emergency assistance from FEMA’s Fire Assistance Grant Program. The Medicine Bow National Forest burned in both 2018 and 2020. The delegation notes in its letter that “the Mullen megafire devastated 175,000 acres on Medicine-Routt National Forests, while the RR316 blaze scorched thousands of our rangeland acres in Carbon County.”
In 2020 alone, nearly 340,000 acres burned in Wyoming, an area larger than Grand Teton National Park.
The delegation notes that urgent work is needed to restore high-risk acres to good health to protect critical infrastructure and energy-resources—identified by Washington bureaucrats as priorities in developing the fire control plan.
The letter ends with the delegation urging the agency heads to include Wyoming within its 10-year wildfire strategy. The state’s congressional leadership described the matter as an “extremely important issue.”
March 15, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
The rift between some members of the Rawlins city council and the mayor was on display during a work session on ethics last week.
The Wyoming Association of Municipalities requires all council members to complete a local government leadership program by the summer of 2024 or risk being removed from office. The program consists of eight required classes on managing a municipality, such as handling a town’s finances.
City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade presented material from WAM’s ethics and integrity program prior to Tuesday’s regular council meeting. Wade said the governing body must abide by three types of ethical standards to maintain the public trust.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_WAM-Training-1.mp3Wade began the meeting by defining what a conflict of interest is. She said a council member cannot use their position to influence others or obtain special treatment. Wade said even the appearance of a conflict of interest must be avoided.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_WAM-Training-2.mp3Attorney Wade said if a person interprets a council member’s actions as a conflict of interest, it should be considered as such. A council member’s obligation is to ensure that their actions are honest and transparent. Councilwoman Tonya Lewman asked if a council member’s perceived bias toward a private company should disqualify them from voting on an agenda item that includes the entity.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_WAM-Training-3.mp3Wade said she would treat such a situation the way a judge deals with jury selection. If the person says they can set aside their personal feelings and be objective, Wade said she would allow them to participate in a vote.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_WAM-Training-4.mp3Wade reiterated the point that if a council member engages in something which could be seen as unethical, they should distance themselves as quickly as possible. Mayor Terry Weickum said a distinction should be made from a real conflict and a phony one, saying that putting words in his mouth does not make them true.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_WAM-Training-5.mp3Wade said she feels comfortable using the judge and juror example in the case Councilwoman Lewman cited. The city attorney said a lack of clear rules leaves a lot to interpretation. Discernment is required.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_WAM-Training-6.mp3Wade said it is an ethical violation for government employees to use city resources for personal use. She gave an example of using the city’s copy machine to print fliers for a private business. Attorney Wade also said a council member may not discuss private information with anyone.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_WAM-Training-7.mp3Councilwoman Lewman said she asked Rawlins interim city manager Tom Sarvey to send her pictures of the snow-covered landfill. She said she posted the pictures on social media to show people the condition of the dump. Councilwoman Lewman asked if her actions violated the ethics code. Attorney Wade said the release of information provided specifically to the council is a violation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_WAM-Training-8.mp3Mayor Weikum said the city’s public information officer Mira Miller should be solely responsible for providing information to the public.
Another area of ethical concerns, council members are permitted to receive gifts valued under $20. Wade said it is ok to accept a cup of coffee from someone if the drink doesn’t come with the expectation of a political favor in return. Any item over $20 must be disclosed to the city and is subject to an ethics investigation. Council members also are not permitted to benefit from an investment, in a person or company, contracted by the city. If the city’s attorneys discover a council member has a personal stake, the contract is immediately torn up.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_WAM-Training-9.mp3Wrapping up the work session, attorney Wade reminded the council the only authority they have comes from public trust. She said to avoid any actions which may be perceived as unethical.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_WAM-Training-10.mp3Wade said the council’s decisions are between right and right. Both sides can be correct on a matter, but it’s the council’s job to choose the decision that most benefits the city.
March 15, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
In Saratoga, the new council has picked up from where the last one left off; in negotiations over a contested property, near the Hugus Ditch, between First and River Streets.
Following a special meeting last Friday, the governing body agreed to split the cost of more soil testing with Randy Stevens.
The town and Stevens, president of Quality Landscape and Nursery, have been in a decade-long legal dispute over earthwork done on property Stevens owns, as well as the town’s responses to the digging. According to a judge-ordered consent decree, the two parties must compromise on a solution to stop the cliff face on the south side of Stevens’ land from eroding an adjacent town-owned alley. A Saratoga-Encampment-Rawlins Conservation District structure, located on the south side of the alley, could be damaged if measures aren’t taken to mitigate the erosion.
On Friday afternoon, the Saratoga town council held a special meeting to discuss paying for additional soil testing on Stevens’ land. After the meeting began, the council went into executive session to discuss the matter with former town attorney Jane France. When the council re-entered the chamber, Mayor Chuck Davis asked for a motion to allow the town to pay for half of the testing cost.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_Stevens-Property-1.mp3The workshop was necessary because at its meeting a few days earlier, council did not want to put any more town money into resolving the legal dispute. At the meeting on Tuesday, Mayor Davis informed the council members the previous council had proposed building a rock and earthworks wall, called a geo-tech wall, on Stevens’ property. To see if the construction was possible, the council would need to approve paying an engineering firm to perform soil compaction testing. Mayor Davis asked the council if they wanted to continue with the established plan.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_Stevens-Property-2.mp3The cliff face is held up by a failing sheet steel wall. The town and Stevens’ attorneys have investigated alternative solutions and settled on the geo-tech wall. Councilman Jerry Fluty asked why the town should spend any more money. He suggested they deny the proposal until something happens to force the town into action. Mayor Davis said the town was court-ordered to work with Stevens on a solution.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_Stevens-Property-3.mp3The consent decree states the town and Stevens must work out a way to make the alley safe from collapse. Councilman Jerry Fluty said the town didn’t create the problem, so they shouldn’t pay for any more work. He suggested the town go back to court.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_Stevens-Property-4.mp3Mayor Davis said the town’s liability insurance company and former attorney both suggested the council abide by the previous consent decree. Councilwoman Kathy Beck said she needed proof the town’s insurance wouldn’t pay to protect the town in the event of a catastrophe.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_Stevens-Property-5.mp3Councilwoman Beck said she would not vote for a motion to pay until the council received a second legal opinion. Mayor Davis said the town’s insurance company said the consent decree should be held to the same standard as a legal contract. He asked for a motion to pay the engineering firm. Councilman Mike Cooley motioned, but the vote died for lack of a second.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0315_Stevens-Property-6.mp3Mayor Davis said attorney France informed him the consent decree legally requires the town to partner with Stevens on a solution.
After the failed vote on Tuesday, the mayor needed to schedule Friday’s special meetings to revisit the soil testing motion where they agreed to pay half the cost.
The town’s half of the $5,200 engineering cost only covers the feasibility study on the geo-tech wall. The actual cost of the wall project is unknown.
March 15, 2023 |
Photo – WY Department of Vital Statistic Services Logo – Courtesy WY DOH
Fewer people died in Wyoming in 2022 than in either of the two previous years.
Fewer people were born, too. Marriages and divorces were down. The new statistical information was released Tuesday by the Vital Statistics Service, a division of the Wyoming Department of Health.
The number of deaths spiked in 2021 to 6,571, according to data from the VSS. The upward trend began in 2019 with 5,122 deaths and continued in 2022 5,986. Last year, the number of deaths fell from the peak to 5,886. The data comes from death certificates which are completed by attending physicians and coroners and then filed with VSS.
The trend during the pandemic years does not come as a surprise. According to VSS data, the number of deaths in Wyoming showed consistent, modest increases before the pandemic for several years largely due to the state’s aging population. National data indicates that the elderly was the age group most at risk from fatal complications throughout the pandemic.
Guy Beaudoin, VSS deputy state registrar, stated in a release from the state’s department of health that COVID-19 pandemic was a factor behind the sharply increased recorded deaths reported in 2020 and 2021.
The number of suicides in Wyoming was down last year to 149 from 190 in 2021. According to the VSS data, about 72 percent of suicide deaths in 2022 were due to firearms, with 22 percent due to hanging, and 4 percent due to poisoning.
According to the data, 93 deaths from drug overdoses occurred in 2022, down from 98 in 2021 and up slightly from 90 in 2020. Among the reported overdose deaths in 2022, 29 percent were linked with prescription drugs, 59 percent with illicit drugs and 10 percent involved a combination. Opioids can be either prescription drugs or illicit drugs and were connected to 72 of the reported overdose deaths last year. Fentanyl was linked with 48 of the deaths and methamphetamine with 47.
The top five causes of death in 2022, listed in order, were heart diseases, cancers, various types of accidents, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and COVID-19 at number five.
COVID-19 had been the third-leading cause of death in both 2020 and 2021.
The number of births was down last year from the previous two years. In 2022, 6,052 babies were born to Wyoming resident mothers as compared to 6,236 in 2021 and 6,568 in 2019.
VSS also maintains marriage and divorce records. In 2022, 4,227 marriages were reported, and 1,905 divorces were finalized. Marriages are generally on a par or up slightly from the pre-pandemic years. Divorces are down by 200 and 300 from 2020 and 2019.
According to the VSS, all numbers reported yesterday are considered provisional. Minor adjustments are expected as the data is finalized.
March 14, 2023 |
Photo – Fentanyl Pills – Courtesy Saratoga Police Department
After hearing and reading about, or even seeing first-hand, the devastating effects of the dangerous narcotic fentanyl in America’s big cities for years. Carbon County residents are getting a fast education about its presence in Wyoming.
Three area people died last month from the addictive painkiller that can stop a person’s ability to breathe minutes before they lose consciousness.
Last week, a large stash of fentanyl and methamphetamine was discovered before it could reach the illegal drug markets operating in Wyoming communities. Lt. Joshua Hardee with the Wyoming Highway Patrol talked to Bigfoot 99 how the bust went down.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Fentanyl-1.mp3Suspicious that they had stopped a drug wholesaler, Wyoming Department of Criminal Investigation agents on the scene called Highway Patrol’s new opioid searching team. Lt. Hardee said the unnamed WHP officer and his canine partner discovered a large stash of illegal narcotics.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Fentanyl-2.mp3The fentanyl bust comes after the Town of Saratoga was shocked by the death of a young couple in February, who were killed when they ingested what they apparently thought was cocaine. Instead, it was fatal dose of fentanyl. Less than two weeks later, a still unnamed Hanna man died under similar circumstances. The 34-year-old man’s name has not been released to protect the investigation. DCI believes the overdose deaths on both sides of I-80 are related. The common thread is the drugs found at the scenes.
DCI is investigating the source of the drugs. Their efforts may have partly paid off with the Evanston bust. WHP’s Lt. Hardee said 1,349 fentanyl laced pills labeled “M30” were found during the search. Chief Morris said the counterfeit tablets are purposely made to resemble prescription Oxycodone.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Fentanyl-3.mp3The counterfeit M30 pills are made by cartel suppliers. Lt. Hardee said the amount of fentanyl can vary widely between batches. He said some tablets are relatively harmless while others are instantly lethal.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Fentanyl-4.mp3Quality control and customer safety are not part of the black-market drug trade business model.
This past Saturday in Saratoga, local officials held a community awareness meeting focused on identifying the effects of illegal narcotics on users. The meeting was a follow-up to a similar roundtable last month on drug abuse. Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris said SCWEMS Director Stayton Mosbey was on hand Saturday to describe how drugs affect the human body.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Fentanyl-5.mp3While the initial roundtable meeting was well attended, only four residents showed up for Saturday’s gathering. Saturday’s meeting was aimed at helping everyday people spot the difference between various types of drugs.
Drug dealers have resorted to cutting all kinds of street drugs, from cocaine to marijuana, with fentanyl because its cheap, readily available, and addictive—big incentives in the black market trade. Lt. Hardee said the only surefire way to avoid accidental fentanyl exposure is to not take illegal narcotics at all. The WHP officer said no drug is safe from contamination.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Fentanyl-6.mp3During last month’s community roundtable, Saratoga citizens questioned how fentanyl entered the community. Chief Morris said the matter was under DCI investigation. Bigfoot 99 asked Lt. Hardee the same question. He said drug smugglers have a lot of ways to move their product.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Fentanyl-7.mp3Saratoga PD will host another narcotics identification meeting tomorrow, March 15th, at the Platte Valley Community Center starting at 5:30pm.
The bust in Evanston took 1,349 fentanyl pills, almost 4 pounds of meth, and one dealer—a previously convicted felon, off the streets.
March 14, 2023 |
Photo – Wanted Poster of Luke Young – Courtesy Natrona County Sheriff’s Office
One smalltime fentanyl dealer from Casper is headed to jail for a longtime after pleading guilty to killing his two accomplices along a state highway near the Natrona County Airport.
Luke Thomas Young pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree murder and one of aggravated assault on March 3, according to court documents in the case. Young stood accused of killing two friends, Acacia Colvin and Kameron Young-Johnson, with a 40-caliber handgun on busy Highway 20-26 outside Casper.
Young also pointed the pistol at a motorcyclist, who was an eyewitness at the scene of the roadside executions while it was happening.
The affidavit filed in his case states that Young admitted to spending most of the day of August 9 traveling with Colvin and Young-Johnson in a red Honda, delivering fentanyl to communities around Wyoming. The scene in the car was tense as Young quarreled with his accomplices.
Sometime around 11 p.m., Young shot and killed the driver Young-Johnson. He shot Colvin, who had exited the car, and begged her killer to spare her life.
The motorcyclist, identified as Kyle Stalkup of Casper, had pulled over to the side of the road after sensing trouble. When Johnson, standing outside the car, pointed the gun at Stalkup, the biker “dumped the clutch” and peeled away from the scene. Stalkup told investigators that he saw a dead man slumped over the steering wheel of the Honda and then heard five shots fired as he sped off.
Arriving later at the crime scene, Natrona County Deputies found Young-Johnson dead with a single gunshot to his head. A 9-millimeter handgun was found on his person. Colvin was found face down on the ground, bled out. She had been shot five times.
Police found trace elements of both fentanyl and methamphetamine in the red Honda.
Young fled the scene on foot, leaving his drivers license in the car. He was apprehended the next day, after being spotted jumping fences during his getaway.
Citing phone text records, authorities said Johnson and his accomplices had a plan to deliver drugs to the Basin area. The records show Young told one buyer that he had a large supply of fentanyl pills to sell.
According to his plea deal with the Natrona County prosecutor, Young will spend the rest of his life in the Wyoming State Penitentiary in Rawlins.
March 14, 2023 |
Photo – Tactical Training – Courtesy Tac-One Consulting Website
Saratoga Police will train on active shooter response with Carbon County School District #2.
At last Tuesday’s town council meeting, Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris told the council that Tac One Consulting is coming to town to conduct active shooter drills with students and school officials. Chief Morris said his department will have officers attending the training.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Shooter-Training-1.mp3Chief Morris said the tactical consulting company is offering Carbon County law enforcement specific training while in town. He said Tac One consultants have firsthand experience with school shootings.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Shooter-Training-2.mp3Chief Morris said good training doesn’t come cheap. A normal Tac One experience costs $350 per officer. He said the company’s owner has offered him a price break. Chief Morris asked the council to approve the expense.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Shooter-Training-3.mp3Chief Morris said law enforcement officers receive active shooter and tactical training in the academy, but Tac One offers more intense coaching. The Saratoga Chief said Tac One has created a training regime based on last May’s school shooting in Uvalde, Texas.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Shooter-Training-4.mp3The Uvalde response was a disaster. Over 200 law enforcement officers responded to the Robb Elementary School shooting, but it took over an hour before they entered the building. Two adults and 19 children were killed in the massacre as police remained outside the building. Chief Morris said unlike the officers in Uvalde, police here don’t have the luxury of waiting for backup.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Shooter-Training-5.mp3The Tac One training isn’t confined to Saratoga. Chief Morris said agencies from across the county will be involved with the tactical instruction.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Training-06.mp3Mayor Chuck Davis and the other council members agreed to pay Tac One Consulting $1050 to train the town’s one part-time and four full-time police officers.
March 14, 2023 |
Photo – Dog – Courtesy Samantha Davi
The Medicine Bow Marshal doesn’t see himself as a dog catcher. He has no plans to become one, either. To drive home the point, Marshal Roger Hawks is increasing the penalties for “at large” dogs.
Medicine Bow residents will want to keep a better eye on their canine companions. Marshal Hawks said he is raising the “dog at large” fine. He said having a larger monetary penalty will make people keep better track of their pets.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Med-Bow-Dogs-1.mp3The Marshall said he is spending too much time chasing escaped dogs. Hawks said the fine, for a first-offense, will triple under his new rule. He said after the third strike, the owner will forfeit their animal.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Med-Bow-Dogs-2.mp3Marshal Hawks said he responds to a handful of dog calls every month. He said the loose animals can be dangerous and must be caught no matter how long it takes.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Med-Bow-Dogs-3.mp3Hawks said the number of roaming dogs is a tiny percentage of the total amount of animals in town. He said most dog owners keep their pets in check.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0314_Med-Bow-Dogs-4.mp3Marshal Hawks said he modeled his new fine structure after Encampment’s ordinance. He said Encampment Police Chief Kevin Shue told him his dog catching days came to an end after instituting the higher fees.
March 13, 2023 |
Photo – Seminoe Dam – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Bureau of Reclamation announced Friday that it will not issue a call on water users in the Upper North Platte River valley this year. New flood forecasting from the Bureau of Reclamation indicate that spring snowmelt runoff will be above average. The Bureau of Rec is forecasting runoff in the North Platte River Basin above Glendo Dam between April and July to be 120% of the 30-year average, or 1.1-million-acre feet.
The total conservation storage capacity of the North Platte Reservoir System is approximately 2,815,800-acre feet. As of February 28, 2023, the combined storage content in the North Platte Reservoirs was 1.2 million acre feet which is 76% of the 30-year average.
Current releases are 530 cubic feet per second (cfs) from Seminoe Reservoir through the Miracle Mile. Based on current projections for the months of May, June, and July, the releases out of Seminoe Reservoir are expected to peak at around 2,600 cfs, or five times the amount now.
Pathfinder Reservoir is not expected to spill this spring. Based on the current forecast, an allocation is not expected for the Bureau of Reclamation’s North Platte Project contractors downstream.
The Bureau of Reclamation’s Wyoming Area Office operates seven reservoirs on the North Platte River with Seminoe Reservoir farthest upstream and Guernsey Reservoir farthest downstream. This system provides irrigation supply to hundreds of thousands of acres of farmland and produces power generation from 6 powerplants which supply power to tens of thousands of homes.
March 13, 2023 |
Photo – Boy showing pig – Courtesy of Wyoming FFA Association
In a related story, attending official 4-H activities will now be considered an excused school absent.
Governor Gordon signed into law House Bill 75 during the recently adjourned legislative session. The bill that amends the definition of an excused school absence to include 4-H events.
Governor Mark Gordon signed HB 175, Enrolled Act 26, near the end of February. The bill amends state statute 21-3-110 Duties of Boards of Trustees when dealing with truancy and absenteeism. The change allows schools to regard “students participating in programming or competitions sponsored by nationally recognized organizations and clubs that promote youth agricultural education,” as an excused absence. Students will no longer be penalized for missing school for “events associated with participation in the annual state fair,” as well.
The law does not go into effect until July 1, 2023. After the enactment date, 4H and FFA activities will be considered as participating in a district cocurricular activity. School officials are still permitted to request verification of the event.
In a written statement provided to Bigfoot99, Haver said the change will benefit the education of the state’s youth. School assignments missed during agricultural events are still expected to be completed.
March 13, 2023 |
Photo – 4-H Emblem – Bigfoot99 file photo
4-H clubs in the Platte Valley kept busy this winter with a variety of programs held at the community center in Saratoga.
Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, known as 4-H, is a youth development program focused on hands-on learning and personal growth. During Carbon County winters, 4-H is mainly limited to indoor activities at the PVCC. 4-H Youth Development Educator Emily Haver described the activities provided to younger kids, called Cloverbuds.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_4H-Programs-1.mp3Haver said the Cloverbuds curriculum is based around STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. She described this month’s space-based activities.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_4H-Programs-2.mp3Haver said the Cloverbuds group is full, but open enrollment begins in October.
Another 4-H winter activity held at the PVCC is horse judging. Haver said the team is made up of kids 8 through 18. Since no live horses can be brought into the community center, Haver said they study using a variety of virtual tools.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_4H-Programs-3.mp3The virtual classes teach the kids all about hippology, or the study of horses. Haver said the studying is in preparation for state-wide horse judging competitions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_4H-Programs-4.mp3Last year was the first time Haver’s 4-H horse judging team competed in the state finals. She said the kids did a great job in their age group.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_4H-Programs-5.mp3Haver said she takes a hands-off approach with the hippology training. She said her team of skilled volunteer coaches should take all the credit.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_4H-Programs-6.mp34-H shooting sports began this month. Haver said kids practice archery in the gym portion of the Platte Valley Community Center. Once spring arrives, 4-H will offer gun-based shooting training.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_4H-Programs-7.mp3Haver said people may think the local 4-H club is focused entirely on Wyoming. She said the organization offers training across the globe.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_4H-Programs-8.mp3Haver said to contact her if you’re interested in learning more about 4-H and the benefits it offers. She said 4-H activities run throughout the entire year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_4H-Programs-9.mp34-H enrollment begins in October. A year-long membership costs $10 if you sign up before December. After January 1st, the price increases to $20 for the year.
March 13, 2023 |
Photo – Evanston Drug Bust – Courtesy Wyoming Highway Patrol
One of the Wyoming Highway Patrol K-9 officers, recently certified in detecting fentanyl, aided in busting a convicted felon last week before he could deliver the drugs to Wyoming communities.
The bust went down at gas station in Evanston on Thursday evening, according to a release from the Highway Patrol.
Special Agents with the Department of Criminal Investigation called in the patrol during a contact with a suspected drug dealer.
Deployed to the scene, was one of the WHP K-9 fentanyl-detection teams that completed their training and were certified two weeks ago.
The K-9 showed a positive response to the odor of drugs in the car. During the search, the trooper seized 1,349 fentanyl pills, branded with M30 markings, and nearly four pounds of methamphetamine.
According to national reports, counterfeit M30 pills have flooded the illegal drug market as easy-to-sell oxycodone substitutes. Much of the fentanyl contained in the opioids is made in China and enters the U.S. through Mexico or Canada.
The counterfeit pills are usually pressed as very light blue replicas of legally-prescribed Oxycontin 30-mg pills.
The official WHP photograph of Thursday’s seizure, in Evanston, shows a baggie and a plastic container, both filled with blue pills.
The fake M30 pills are indistinguishable from the original pill and usually sold in small batches that don’t give away how much a dealer might possess (high volume implies counterfeit origin). Depending on how much fentanyl is used in the illegal manufacturing of black market M30’s, users could ingest a fatal dose of breath-stopping synthetic opioids or nothing but harmless byproduct.
According to Friday’s news release, aagents believe these drugs, seized in Evanston, “were destined for communities within Wyoming.”
March 13, 2023 |
Photo – Mountain Lion in Saratoga – Courtesy Catherine West
With at least one mountain lion spotted in Saratoga, Wyoming Game and Fish biologists want the public to have more information about how to stay safe around big cats.
Last month, bathers at the Hobo Hot Pools reported seeing a mountain lion in the vicinity. The Saratoga Police Department and Wyoming Game and Fish were not able to locate the animal, despite using high-tech surveillance equipment. A deer carcass was located in the area.
Last Thursday, another mountain lion was seen spotted near the center of town between First Street and the river. A search by police and WGFD failed to corner the big cat. Authorities haven’t determined if the cat spotted last week is the same one from February, but chances are high that it is. Wyoming Game and Fish Biologist Teal Cufaude explained why at the big cat has made its way into the town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_Mountain-Lion-1.mp3Or not so discreetly, in this case. Last Thursday’s cat was witnessed by several Saratoga residents. Cufaude said when Game Warden Levi Wood arrived on site, the mountain lion had disappeared. The cat is likely still in town somewhere, Cufaude said.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_Mountain-Lion-2.mp3A mountain lion has been reported in town on more than one occasion. Cufaude said a wounded big cat was seen around the golf course at the beginning of the year. She said it’s likely to be the same animal spotted last week.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_Mountain-Lion-3.mp3Cufaude said Wyoming Game and Fish does not have an accurate number of how many mountain lions are in the area. Their illusive nature makes them harder to count than animals such as mule deer or elk. She said a few big cats make their way into town each winter, but it is a small percentage of the overall population.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_Mountain-Lion-4.mp3The Wyoming Game and Fish Department considers the entire area around Saratoga to be large carnivore country. Cufaude said mountain lions and black bears make their homes in the Platte River Valley and surrounding mountains. She gave basic tips for avoiding contact with large predators.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_Mountain-Lion-5.mp3If you encounter a mountain lion in the wild, Cufaude said the most important thing to remember is: Don’t run. She said mountain lions have a prey drive similar to a domestic cat. However, unlike your pet cat Fluffy, a mountain lion can seriously injure or even kill you.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_Mountain-Lion-6.mp3Cufaude said mountain lions tend to inhabit open spaces with access to game, such as the area near Pennock Mountain. If you spot a big cat in a populated area, the Game and Fish biologist said to call her department or local police.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0313_Mountain-Lion-7.mp3Cufaude said the Wyoming Game and Fish Department will trap and remove the mountain lion, or lions, once biologists are able to locate the animal. Until then, she recommended people call the Saratoga Police Department at 326-8316 if they see a predator in town.
March 10, 2023 |
Photo – WYDOT Logo – Bigfoot99 File Photo
Luke Reiner has retired as Director of the Wyoming Department of Transportation.
Governor Mark Gordon made the announcement on Thursday.
The governor said in a written statement, “I would like to thank Director Reiner for his dedicated and consistent service and unwavering commitment to the State of Wyoming in capacities as WYDOT director and previously as the Adjutant General of the Wyoming military department.”
Reiner served as Wyoming’s adjutant general from February 2011 to March 2019, when Governor Gordon appointed the career military man the 18th director of WYDOT.
Reiner served as commander of Camp New York, Kuwait, during Operation Iraqi Freedom II and commanded the Wyoming Army National Guard’s 115th Fires Brigade. During his time in the military, Reiner was honored for his work various medals, including the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, and the Meritorious Services Medal (with three Oak Leaf Clusters).
The state highway director oversees nearly 2,000 fulltime employees in 60 locations statewide, as well as about 7,000 miles of highway and 2,000 bridges. The director also has responsibility for the Wyoming Highway Patrol, Driver’s Services, Statewide emergency communications and aeronautic operations across the state.
State statute requires that the Wyoming Transportation Commission name three nominees to the governor for consideration as Director.
March 10, 2023 |
Photo – Site for Never Forget Park – Bigfoot99 File Photo
After years of delays, work may begin soon on Saratoga’s Never Forget Park. At Tuesday’s town council meeting, Never Forget Park committee member Stacy Crimmins, presented the mayor with three grant proposals. The $70,000 in applications include an HF Sinclair Community Relations grant for $25,000, a Wyoming Community Foundation grant for $10,000, and a $35,000 grant from the Laura Jane Musser Foundation. Crimmins said the Musser Foundation required the town’s budget report, letters of support from the council, and letters from other organizations. The Musser Foundation application must include letters of support and be accompanied with environmental information, Crimmins said.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-1.mp3The council approved all three grant applications. Crimmins said the town will know by June if the grants were approved.
Crimmins said if everything goes to plan, the first phase of construction will begin this spring. Installation of curbs and gutters will be the first step. Crimmins said to save money, she’ll need volunteers to help build benches.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-2.mp3Crimmins said the Saratoga Encampment Rawlins Conservation District will help plant trees.
After Crimmins finished her presentation, Mayor Chuck Davis said he attended a meeting with the engineering firm responsible for designing the park, WLC Engineering and Surveying. Mayor Davis said he thinks the curb and gutter should be done at the same time as paving.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-3.mp3The park design is set up in stages. Phase 1 includes curb and gutter, irrigation, and electrical. Paving wasn’t supposed to occur until Phase 4. Mayor Davis said the town paid WLC $7,000 to design a new plan. The new plan included the paving to occur during the beginning of construction.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-4.mp3Mayor Davis said the town would pay $42,000 to have WLC on site to perform all necessary testing during construction. He said a local engineering firm said the price seemed reasonable.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-5.mp3Mayor Davis said it would be a better idea to do most of the construction on the park at once, instead of in phases. With the infrastructure in place, the town could take its time putting on the finishing touches.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-6.mp3Local contractor, Randy Raymer, questioned the amount of money the town was preparing to spend. He said the streets department could perform most of the work. Raymer said expensive testing was unnecessary for such a simple project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-7.mp3Mayor Davis said the town would need to have experts come in to make sure the work was done right. He agreed the engineering costs were already too high.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-8.mp3Citizens attending the meeting expressed frustration about the lack of progress.
Mayor Davis said building the Never Forget Park is important to him. Mayor Davis said combining the construction phases is the best way to complete the park.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-9.mp3Councilman Mike Cooley asked Crimmins if she thought the town should move forward with the new plan or wait for a less expensive option. She said waiting may result in construction missing the onset of spring. Crimmins added she will inform the public of how much money the Never Forget Park is expected to cost.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-10.mp3The public continued to voice their concerns about the cost of the engineering firm and how long planning has been going on. Afterwards, Councilwoman Kathy Beck said she appreciated everyone’s input. She said the town would get its money’s worth out of WLC Engineering.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-11.mp3Councilwoman Beck acknowledged using the streets department would save the town money. However, she said they are too busy with town work to help with construction. She recommended the town go with WLC’s plan.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_NF-Park-Update-12.mp3Councilwoman Beck motioned to accept the $42,000 WLC Engineering proposal. The motion was seconded and passed. With a finalized design document, the town can open the construction up for bid. Assuming a reasonable bid is received, work on the Never Forget Park can begin in the spring.
March 10, 2023 |
Photo – Mountain Lion – Bigfoot99 File Photo
Another mountain lion, perhaps the same one, was spotted blocks from where Saratoga residents reported seeing a big cat one month ago.
Early Thursday morning, a mountain lion was seen in the area between East Main and East Saratoga Avenue, not far from the river. Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris said the animal was limping and appeared to have an injured paw.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0310_Mountain-Lion-1.mp3Saratoga PD assisted Wyoming Game and Fish with the search. Chief Morris said they followed the bloody paw prints but lost the trail. He said Game Warden Levi Wood told him it is normal for predators to suffer an injury while hunting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0310_Mountain-Lion-2.mp3In early February, a mountain lion was sighted near Hobo Hot Pools. A deer carcass was in the vicinity. Searchers did not find and neutralize the predator. Chief Morris said more sightings have been reported since then.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0310_Mountain-Lion-3.mp3Chief Morris said more than one big cat may be in town. He said his office has received multiple calls from people who say they’ve seen a hurt mountain lion.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0310_Mountain-Lion-4.mp3The area where the lion was sighted is approximately one half mile from the hot springs. Despite several mountain lion reports, Chief Morris said the location of yesterday’s sighting makes it likely to be the same animal that was seen last month.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0310_Mountain-Lion-5.mp3The heavy snow has taken a toll on the area’s wildlife. According to the Wyoming Game and Fish website, biologists are seeing increased big game mortality across the state. With less prey to hunt, predators venture into human occupied spaces in search of an easy meal. Chief Morris said having a mountain lion town is dangerous. Authorities will continue to search for the animal.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0310_Mountain-Lion-6.mp3If you see a mountain lion in town, do not approach it. Call the Saratoga Police Department at 326-8316 or Wyoming Game and Fish’s injured animal hotline at 1-877-943-3847.
March 9, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
Mayor Terry Weickum survived two attempts to unseat him at Tuesday night’s Rawlins City Council meeting.
The meeting had just begun, in a sparsely populated chamber, when new Councilwoman Tonya Lewman attempted to bring a motion to revote for Mayor. Lewman’s motion was rebuffed, by Vice Mayor Steve Sanger, as out of order.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_City-Council-1.mp3Lewman was not seated, at the first council meeting of the year, when Weickum was elected mayor by the council. She had left the chamber, without taking the taking the oath of office, after reading a letter aloud about an illegal campaign contribution that she had accepted, but later returned, when it became public knowledge. Several weeks later, she was sworn in, by a notary, who is the husband of the attorney representing the company that gave the campaign contribution.
No one from city hall has ever provided an official explanation about the confusion surrounding the controversy involving Lewman.
Following Lewman’s failed attempt to trigger a new vote for mayor, Councilman Darril Garner, who has recused himself from previous council votes involving the company that provided the campaign contribution to Lewman, made a motion and then withdrew it, to play some audio. Garner suggested the audio would portray Mayor Weickum in an unfavorable light.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_City-Council-2.mp3Then, in an uncomfortable exchange, Vice Mayor Sanger asked Councilman Garner, pointedly, what was the purpose of playing the recordings.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_City-Council-3.mp3Garner then changed his motion, to a vote of “no confidence”, on the Mayor. Councilwoman Lewman, who had seconded the motion to play the audio, accepted the withdrawal of the motion. Lewman then seconded the motion for the vote of “no confidence”.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_City-Council-4.mp3Councilwoman Jacqueline Wells called the awkward drama, unfolding in the chamber, as “unprecedented.” Wells asked for legal advice on what a vote of “no confidence” would mean. City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade said an action item, like a vote of “no confidence”, could not be added to the agenda without notice. Wade added the council could discuss a vote of “no confidence” at the meeting, but they could not take action.
Councilman Garner changed his motion again, to conform with Roberts Rules of Order, and Lewman seconded the change. Councilwoman Wells, again, asked for legal clarification. Attorney Wade replied that a ‘no confidence’ vote would open the door to a new vote for Mayor.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_City-Council-5.mp3The matter, to discuss the vote of “no confidence” on the Mayor, went to a vote where it failed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_City-Council-6.mp3The council moved onto other business after the failed vote to unseat Weickum.
About an hour later, in the meeting, Councilman Garner tried, again, to play the audio file that he had failed to present earlier. When the playback from his smartphone failed, the Councilman described what the audio file contained. The audio is posted to a Rawlins-related social media platform.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_City-Council-7.mp3The City Attorney agreed with the Mayor. Wade said the issue had been investigated, subject to a legal review, and set aside. The Attorney added the audio had no relevance to public business.
The contents of the secretly recorded audio depict Weickum recount, with braggadocio, a story he has told to countless people over the last few years. The story is about a confrontation he had with a Rawlins police officer, over a matter involving his son. No crime was committed, or even attempted, during the contact between the officer and Weickum.
Councilman Garner forged ahead with another charge of an alleged ethics violation against Weickum.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_City-Council-8.mp3City Attorney Wade shut down Garner’s attempt to bring the matter before council. Wade advised Garner to hire an attorney and bring the complaint to an executive session, since it was a personal and not a public matter.
Council then moved to go into executive session.
March 9, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Higher Education Center – Bigfoot99 file photo
In a somewhat related story, when Paul Metevier isn’t representing Ward 2 as a Republican committeeman, he is hosting a series of non-partisan community meetings at the Carbon County Higher Education Center. Metevier said the meetings began in his ward as response to Tonya Lewman not being seated on the council at the first meeting of the year. The meetings have grown from there. He said people from every district can use the assemblies to be heard by the city government.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Rawlins-Assembly-1.mp3Following the success of the group’s campaign to have Councilwoman Lewman seated, Metevier said it was decided to continue holding the meetings. He said the topic of conversation turned to council ethics violations. Metevier said Councilman Darril Garner attended the meetings and was asked about creating an ethics ordinance.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Rawlins-Assembly-3.mp3Metevier said the city doesn’t have an enforceable set of ethics rules. He said Rawlins Community Assembly attendees are working to craft a resolution, to address perceived abuse by council members, using other cities as an example. Ward 2 council members would then be asked to bring the policy before the governing body.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Rawlins-Assembly-4.mp3Metevier said the idea is to have council members, Garner and Lewman, ask the mayor to allow a vote on an ethics resolution. He said if enough people show their support for the policy, the council would be forced to act.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Rawlins-Assembly-5.mp3Metevier said the Rawlins Community Assembly meetings are a way for people to guide local government. He said if you want to see change, you must participate in the process.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Assembly-06.mp3The Rawlins Community Assembly meets on the 1st Monday of each month at the Carbon County Higher Education Center at 6pm. The topic of discussion changes every meeting. Monday’s meeting was to address ethics concerns. Metevier said too few people attended the meeting for an official policy to be drafted.
March 9, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming Game and Fish Truck – Courtesy WY Game and Fish
Wyoming Game and Fish will begin restocking Saratoga Lake this summer.
Following the discovery of illegal yellow perch in Saratoga Lake, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department initiated a lake-wide fish kill-off. Game and Fish crews administered a toxin specifically targeted toward gilled animals called Rotenone. Only after every fish was dead, was WGFD satisfied no yellow perch remained.
During Tuesday night’s Saratoga town council meeting, Game and Fish Biologist Mark Cufaude said trout will be reintroduced to the lake in mid-summer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_Saratoga-Lake-1.mp3Wyoming Game and Fish cut the lake off from its source before crews applied the toxin during low water. Councilman Jerry Fluty asked Cufaude when the lake will be refilled. The Game and Fish Biologist said the lake will catch the snowmelt until WFGD opens the inlet valve in summer. Before that time, Cufaude said his department will install a fish screen. He said the project should take less than a month once work begins in April.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_Saratoga-Lake-2.mp3Game and Fish crews categorized the type of fish they removed from the lake. A final tally showed nearly 40 suckers to every one trout or perch. Suckers are considered trash fish, not good for eating. Cufaude said to prevent the lake from filling with suckers again, Game and Fish will install heated screens.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_Saratoga-Lake-3.mp3The screens will be placed in the lake’s inlet channel. Cufaude said he will be responsible for periodically maintaining the screens. Mayor Davis asked where the screen heaters will get power. Cufaude said the power poles will be located on the south-eastern bank of the lake, between the cemetery and a private residence.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0309_Saratoga-Lake-4.mp3Game and Fish officials said the lake should be ready to host next year’s Ice Fish Derby after it had to be cancelled this year.
March 8, 2023 |
Photo – H Frame Transmission Lines – Courtesy Google Photos
During two public hearings Tuesday, the Carbon County Commissioners approved a pair of special use permits for separate transmission lines from the Rock Creek Wind Project.
The 590-Megawatt Rock Creek green energy installation is located on mostly private land, 25 miles north of Laramie. The company behind it, Chicago-based Invenergy, also built the Ekola Flats and TB Flats wind projects. The Rock Creek green power plant would consist of two separate installations, Rock Creek I and Rock Creek II. Although geographically contiguous, one will connect to the Foote Creek Substation, about five miles away, while the other will send power to the Aeolus Substation across a 40-mile overhead transmission line.
County Planning Director Sarah Brugger opened the discussion for Case #2023-01, The Rock Creek 1 Transmission line project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_Rock-Creek-1.mp3Only a small portion of the Rock Creek project, which involves 106 turbines and interconnecting transmission lines, is in Carbon County. The board of commissioners already approved permitting for the portion of the project within its jurisdiction. Invenergy also secured special use permitting from Albany County along with industrial siting permits from the state.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_Rock-Creek-2.mp3The line will be co-located, with existing transmission lines, for two miles of its eight-mile run. The connecting infrastructure also includes more than five dozen H-frame power poles, traditional overhead power line towers, two of which will be at the county’s maximum allowable tower height.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_Rock-Creek-3.mp3The specifications in the county’s conditional use permit set a maximum tower height of 180-feet. Taller structures will allow the overall footprint to be reduced in the wet land area the power line will cross. Existing access roads will be used, and no new roads will be built.
Brugger said no negative comments were received during the public comment period, noting that the Wyoming Game and Fish stated the project is outside any core sage grouse areas and crucial winter ranges.
Chase Marston, Invenergy’s project manager, told commissioners that the Wyoming Industrial Siting Council already approved the Rock Creek 1 transmission line as part of the larger project. Marston also described his company’s background in developing and maintaining transmission lines.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_Rock-Creek-4.mp3Throughout the permitting process, Invenergy has targeted the end of 2024 for the commercial operation start date for Rock Creek 1. Marston said some of the construction on the transmission line could begin this year, but most of the line and towers would be built next year.
The Project Manager said once Rock Creek 1 is up and running, it will be sold to PacifiCorps.
Commissioner John Johnson said the board has learned valuable lessons from dealing with other wind energy projects over the past decade. Several of the conditions required for permit approval are hinged to county revenues that have failed to materialize from past projects. Johnson listed some of the conditions, which he said are “near and dear to our hearts.”
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_Rock-Creek-5.mp3Marston agreed to the conditions and said Invenergy did not want to make any missteps that would result in additional conditions for future wind energy developers.
With everyone in agreement, the board approved the conditional use permit for the eight-mile transmission line and 66 towers from Rock Creek 1 to the Foot Creek Substation.
The commissioners also approved a second special use permit for 23.5 miles of transmission line associated with the Rock Creek II energy plant. The Rock Creek II transmission line is 38 miles long. Over half the run is in Carbon County, from the Albany County line to the Aeolus Substation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_Rock-Creek-6.mp3The 215 H-frame power line structures, along the 23.5-mile Rock Creek 2 line, will range in height between 60 and 115 feet. Brugger said the project is located entirely within an established BLM energy corridor where other wind energy projects have already been built.
As with the special use permit for Rock Creek 1, the Carbon County Commissioners unanimously approved the special use permit for the Rock Creek II transmission line.
March 8, 2023 |
Photo – Empty Lot of NPVMC – Bigfoot99 file photo
The public will have two chances to tour Saratoga’s new hospital this month.
The “Sneak Peek” tours of the North Platte Valley Medical Center are being offered 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. this Saturday, and again on Wednesday, March 15 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
The free tours will be conducted at 15-minute intervals. Registration is required. You can sign up on line at NPVMC.org/SneakPeek. You can also register, in person, at the Saratoga Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce office. Any remaining openings will be available for walk-ins at the hospital during tour hours. Members of the NPVHP Board and the hospital staff will also be available to answer questions during the tours.
The tour will visit the emergency room, clinic, lab, extended care wing, ambulance bay, therapy facilities and other areas the public rarely sees once the hospital is fully operational. Although opening day is yet to be determined, a ribbon-cutting ceremony and community celebration are being planned.
March 8, 2023 |
Photo – Pi on Pie – Courtesy Google Photos
The heat is turned on at the Saratoga Public Library where they will celebrate mathematical Pi Day with actual pie.
Tuesday, March 14th, or 3/14, is commonly referred to as Pi Day. Pi, or 3.14, is the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. On 3/14, the Saratoga Public Library will host a series of Pi related games and activities. Library Branch Manager Sue Paddock said the proclamation came from the Carbon County Library System’s head office. Paddock said each town’s library will host their own Pi-themed events.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_Pi-Day-1.mp3The library is offering Pi sudoku as well. While mazes and word searches are self-explanatory, our Bigfoot99 reporter had to ask what a Pi “skyline” is. Paddock described a skyline as coloring a grid based on the value of Pi found in a particular row.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_Pi-Day-2.mp3If attendees choose to, their artwork will be displayed in the library.
In previous years, the Saratoga Public Library has offered small math related games. Paddock said this year marks the first time actual pie will be available for Pi Day.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_Pi-Day-3.mp3The library director said she doesn’t know what kind of pie will be served during the Pi Day event. The main branch supplies the baked goods.
March 14th is also the day the Saratoga Library is offering free tax services. Paddock said to make an appointment by calling 710-1022 or coming into the library and speaking with her.
Most people only know Pi to three decimal places, hence why 3/14 represents the mathematical symbol. In 2021, scientists from a university in Switzerland used cloud computing to calculate Pi to 100 trillion digits.
March 8, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming Motorcycle Adventures Logo – Courtesy wyomotoadv.com
The Wyoming Backroads Discovery Route provides adventure for the intrepid traveler while putting money into the pockets of local businesses.
The Wyoming Backroads Discovery Route, or BDR, is a series of roads and trails through the state. The BDR starts at the Colorado border, meanders through the central and eastern parts of the state, and then heads north into Montana. Carbon County Visitor’s Council CEO Leslie Jefferson said Jock Boyer, owner of the YL Ranch in Savery, was responsible for generating interest in the route’s creation in 2019.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_BDR-1.mp3Backroads Discovery Route has assembled a curated selection of lesser traveled roads and off-road trails from across the US. The Wyoming leg of the BDR was in the works for about three years. Jefferson said she doesn’t have data on how many motorcyclists traveled the newly formed course, but projections put the number in the range of tens of thousands.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_BDR-2.mp3Beginning in the Baggs/Savery area, adventure riders travel across the Sierra Madres to the towns of Encampment and Riverside. When the route was originally planned, riders were expected to spend little time in Riverside before moving on to Centennial. Jefferson said instead of getting fuel and continuing the journey, many riders chose to stay in town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_BDR-3.mp3Between Riverside and Centennial, BDR riders stop at Elk Mountain. Jefferson said the owner of Elk Mountain Cabins, Lou Larson, was pleased by the number of riders who stayed at her establishment.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_BDR-4.mp3Jefferson said Jock Boyer and Lou Larson confirmed their rooms were filled with BDR motorcyclists throughout the season. The Carbon County Visitor’s Council CEO said hotel owners in Riverside and Encampment were surprised by how many riders booked rooms.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_BDR-5.mp3Jefferson said a report provided by Backroads Discovery Route organizers showed plenty of rooms existed along the course for the riders to stay. She said because the adventure motorcyclists choose different places to stop, they provide an infusion of cash into our county’s communities.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0308_BDR-6.mp3If interested, you can learn more about Wyoming Motorcycle Adventures at the group’s web site: wyomotoadv.com, where they help develop multi-day custom trips based on a rider’s skill level.
March 7, 2023 |
Photo – Governor Mark Gordon – Bigfoot99 File Photo
Governor Mark Gordon has submitted his request for a Secretarial Disaster designation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) request for a Secretarial disaster.
In his letter requesting financial help, Governor Gordon noted that Wyoming’s winter season started early, and the culminating impacts of sustained cold, wind, and snowfall have caused significant distress to the livestock industry across the state. Access to traditional winter grazing resources has become dire because many ranch, county, and BLM roads are drifted shut and, even when cleared, re-drift because of high winds.
The letter details just how bad the first two months of the year have been. Data obtained through the National Weather Service’s event tracking system reveals that 66.5 percent of the time, from January 1 to February 27, Wyoming was under some combination of Winter Storm Warnings, Blizzard Warnings, Winter Weather Advisories, and High Wind Warnings–far outpacing any other state in the lower 48.
Underscoring the need for federal assistance, Governor Gordon’s letter noted, “State, county, local, and individual resources have been deployed and are being shared between entities for snow removal, but there is too much volume and wind to keep roads open and passable to gain access to livestock.” Additionally, Governor Gordon’s administration has been working closely with our local Farm Service Agency office to identify the areas of greatest impact and corresponding needs of the ag community.
March 7, 2023 |
Photo – Carbon County Emergency Management C4 Building – Bigfoot99 File Photo
Winter Storm Olive and its aftermath prompted Carbon County’s Office of Emergency Management to issue an emergency declaration.
To assist the county in dealing with the aftermath of the most recent winter storm, Carbon County Emergency Manager Lenny Layman created an emergency declaration. Layman described the purpose of the declaration.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Emergency-Declaration-1.mp3In response to the county’s emergency declaration, the state provided a specialized tracked vehicle, called a Hagglund, to be used in search and rescue. Layman said having a signed emergency declaration allowed the county to request state assistance without worrying about cost.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Emergency-Declaration-2.mp3The state’s Hagglund suffered a catastrophic engine failure while in service to the county. Because of the emergency declaration, the county isn’t responsible for the cost of repairs. The official proclamation lays out a clear chain of command on who can ask for outside assistance and when.
Layman is handling all support requests. He said having people help in an unofficial capacity opens the county to liability claims.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Emergency-Declaration-3.mp3At their last meeting, County Commissioners asked Layman how much money the emergency had cost the county. He didn’t have an answer at the time. Layman said he won’t know the total until the disaster is finished.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Emergency-Declaration-4.mp3Layman said he was single-handedly responsible for writing the emergency declaration, steering the county’s response to the deteriorating conditions, and organizing state assistance. He said if he could do it over again, he would find people to help him.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Emergency-Declaration-5.mp3Layman said bringing every aspect of the county government together can be tough. He said a good exchange of information between the towns and county officials helped speed the process up.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Emergency-Declaration-6.mp3Before Winter Storm Olive, mountain snow-packs were already at higher-than-average levels, 121% of mean on February 21. Two weeks later snow-pack levels in the Upper North Platte River Basin had risen to 182%. Flooding is possible if the region experiences a wet and warmer-than-average spring. To prepare, Layman hosted a county-wide flood preparedness summit at the Platte Valley Community Center earlier this month. He said his plan is to focus his efforts on towns most likely to be impacted by high waters.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Emergency-Declaration-7.mp3Layman said he wants to have an emergency response already prepared for each town before a flooding event takes place. He said his office will coordinate support and logistics during an emergency. Layman said towns will focus on how best to use the boots-on-the-ground responders.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Emergency-Declaration-8.mp3Layman also said all emergencies begin and end locally. The county would like towns to have their own emergency declaration processes in place for future events.
March 7, 2023 |
Photo – Semi vs Snowplow – courtesy WHP Facebook page
Slick roads and snowy conditions have plagued southern Wyoming since the start of the year with Interstate 80 continuing to be a trouble spot. In the latest highway mishap, a tractor-trailer combo collided with a WYDOT snowplow, sending the plow driver to the hospital.
The incident happened Sunday morning. A commercial rig rear-ended a state snowplow while attempting to pass another motorist. The wreck occurred east of Rock Springs, on Interstate 80. Wyoming Highway Patrol Sergeant Jeremy Beck said drivers need to slow down when visibility is low.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Plow-Crash-1.mp3The plow driver was taken to Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County with minor injuries. The truck driver was cited for driving too fast for the conditions and careless driving.
The latest crash marks the 22nd WYDOT snowplow hit this winter. Nine of the 80 plows stationed in Carbon County have been struck this season. Sergeant Beck said drivers run into plows because they were not taking road conditions into consideration.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Plow-Crash-2.mp3WYDOT operates a fleet of about 450 plows across the state.
WYDOT plow trucks are custom built in Cheyenne. Similar trucks can easily cost upwards of $300,000. Sergeant Beck said the truck driver’s insurance will pay to have the plow repaired, but you can’t put a price on human life.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Plow-Crash-3.mp3If the plows are out, the roads are bad. So slow down and let them do their job.
March 7, 2023 |
Photo – Elk Mountain Cemetery – by Brett Larson
Keeping track of where everyone is buried in a cemetery might not be as simple or as easy as you think.
At the Elk Mountain cemetery, the newly reformed Cemetery District is working to ensure residents rest in peace and all the grave sites are mapped and catalogued accordingly.
In November, after over a decade of not having a cemetery control board, Brett Larson assembled a group of four citizens to bring the Elk Mountain Cemetery Board back. Larson said his first act as the cemetery board’s commissioner was to have a detailed survey done of the graveyard.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Cemetery-Mapping-1.mp3Larson said the most pressing issue for his newly formed cemetery board was to create a new graveyard map. He said the town hadn’t updated its grave plot map since 1963.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Cemetery-Mapping-2.mp3Larson has contracted Dave Hammond, of Hammond Land Survey in Laramie, to map the 300 plus graves in the cemetery. Hammond has agreed to place markers differentiating the sections of the graveyard during his examination. Larson said no signs exist showing which area people are in.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Cemetery-Mapping-3.mp3The Elk Mountain cemetery is divided into six sections, lettered A through F. Larson said, with less than 20 plots left for sale, the cemetery board has asked Hammond to map out three additional sections.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Cemetery-Mapping-4.mp3The town of Elk Mountain sells cemetery plots in 16-foot by 16-foot squares. Larson said the newly surveyed areas could be split into smaller segments to accommodate single burials and the interment of cremated remains.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Cemetery-Mapping-5.mp3Larson said it was his idea to resurrect the Elk Mountain cemetery board. After being rejected by members of the previous board, Larson said he was able to find three people willing to serve.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0307_Cemetery-Mapping-6.mp3The cemetery board commissioner said he wanted to recognize the other members of the reformed board. Larson said Craig Jones was part of previous board for around 20 years. Elk Mountain town council member Wade Nelson is also a member of the board. Larson said despite Nelson only being in town for about 3 years, he is a great addition. And the last member of the Elk Mountain Cemetery district board is Larson’s relative, Niles Larson.
Hammonds work will be compiled into a digital spreadsheet allowing the town to keep track of plot sales more accurately.
March 6, 2023 |
Photo – Wyoming Capitol Building – Bigfoot99 file photo
The 40-day session of the Wyoming Legislature came to an end Friday well before the midnight deadline.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Legislature-1.mp3House Speaker Albert Sommers gaveled the lower chamber to close shortly after Governor Mark Gordon addressed the chamber. Sommers came under criticism during the session because of how he used the Speaker’s chair to railroad into oblivion three bills brought by populist conservatives in the chamber.
The bills included Senate File 117, “Parental Rights in Education,” which passed the upper chamber in late January on an 18-12 vote. The legislation prohibited classroom instruction “on sexual orientation and gender identity” through third grade. Speakers Sommers deep-sixed the bill. A motion to suspend the rules and force the speaker to have the legislation introduced to the floor for debate failed on a 27-34 vote.
One of the House Speaker’s roles is to function as a traffic cop, directing bills to committees and greenlighting when or if they are introduced to the floor.
Speaker Sommers sidelined two other bills with procedural moves. The Wyoming Freedom Scholarship Act would have established a scholarship fund for students to attend private schools. The third bill doomed by the speaker was SF-144, Chloe’s law, which would have banned doctors from performing transgender surgeries on children.
SF144 passed the Senate by a wide margin, 26-5, on February 8. Speaker Sommers referred the health and social services related bill to Appropriations, skeptically known as the “kill committee” among some lawmakers. True to its moniker, Appropriation voted 5-2 to kill the bill with a do-not-pass recommendation. The legislation never saw the light of day again and was not introduced to the floor.
The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Anthony Bouchard, called for the House Speaker and members of the House Appropriations Committee to by publicly censured for aborting the legislation.
The fate of the three bills brought unfavorable national attention on the Wyoming Legislature among critics who presumed Wyoming lawmakers would support culturally conservative legislation.
Among them was U.S. Representative Harriett Hageman. The first term-Congresswoman retweeted a statement from the national State Freedom Caucus that took note of the the legislation being blocked by the Wyoming House Speaker. In her tweet, Hagemen stated, “This is about our children. In Congress, I’m fighting for these very issues. I hope the Wyoming Legislature will do the same.”
Texas congressman Chip Roy also retweeted the State Freedom Caucus post, adding a sarcastic question: “Red” state leadership?”
Hageman’s tweet drew heat from Rep. Langdon Brown of Cheyenne. Brown, defending Speaker Sommers, said Hageman should stay in her “lane,” and out of legislative politics.
Hageman did not back down. In response she told Brown that he is “a living argument for allowing only Republicans to vote in Republican primaries.” Others chimed in, noting that Brown is endorsed by the Wyoming Education Association, which is viewed in conservative circles as marching in line with the ultra-liberal National Education Association.
The controversies hung over the final week of the session.
Governor Mark Gordon avoided stepping into the controversy when he made the traditional final comments to the House on Friday. The governor thanked the lawmakers for their accomplishments, especially passing an interim budget in record time that saves $3.50 for every $1.00 spent.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Legislature-2.mp3The governor also addressed the ongoing impacts of a winter that have closed roads for extended periods of time and have caused financial losses for livestock growers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Legislature-3.mp3The governor said he has been in touch with FEMA and is working to see if the federal emergency management agency has a program that will fit the needs of Wyoming ranchers. The governor also noted that he is seeking financial relief through the U.S Department of Agriculture. The governor is also looking at other resources.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Legislature-4.mp3With their work done, lawmakers left Cheyenne for home Friday, leaving two controversial bills on the governor’s desk. The governor has three options: sign them, veto them, or let them become law without his signature.
House Bill 152, “Life Is A Human Right Act,” rejects abortion as a form of health care. The legislation prohibits abortion as the “intentional termination of the life of a baby, and contrary to the health and general welfare of the people.” The bill would ban abortion earlier than last year’s abortion trigger ban bill, which is still being contested in the courts.
The other bill waiting its fate, Senate File 133, would restrict transgender athletes from competing on female school sports teams.
Both HB 152 and SF 133 passed both chambers by wide margins.
The Wyoming Legislative Service Office reported there were a total of 497 bills and resolutions numbered for introduction in the session. The Legislature passed 196 of them by the final day.
March 6, 2023 |
Photo – WY DCI Badge – courtesy WY DCI web-page
The Wyoming Department of Criminal Investigation suggests that more arrests may come after the drug-related deaths of three county residents last month.
One man faces charges already. Nearly two weeks after the fentanyl deaths of Cassidee Wingo and Richard Heap in early February, 23-year-old Max Schneider of Saratoga was arrested and charged with two counts of manslaughter and one count of distributing a controlled substance. DCI’s Region Two Commander Ronnie Jones said more arrests could be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Drug-Case-1.mp3Jones said an unnamed federal agency is assisting DCI with the investigation. Jones refused to say which federal agency his department was working with. He said releasing that information might compromise the investigation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Drug-Case-2.mp3Jones said DCI typically doesn’t release much information to the public because DCI casts a wide net during investigations. He said DCI searches tend to extend outside of the location where the initial crime occurred.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Drug-Case-3.mp3Jones said investigations involving death tend to take a long time. He said assistance from local law enforcement is helping speed up the probe.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Drug-Case-4.mp3Court documents allege that Wingo and Heap died after consuming fentanyl laced cocaine allegedly provided by Schneider. According to investigators, an unnamed Hanna man, also died from the same batch of tainted drugs. Jones said DCI is withholding the Hanna man’s identity as part of the investigation.
March 6, 2023 |
Photo – WHP K-9 Officers with Handlers – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Drug-sniffing dogs face a new, lethal, on-the-job danger. A cache of fentanyl can incapacitate a human instantly when inhaled at close range. Canines are even more at risk.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol has been pioneering a program to train K-9 officers to spot fentanyl. The process has been slow, but successful so far.
The WHP’s first fentanyl-detection K9 was certified in July of last year. Nine additional canine teams across the state successfully finished their training and were certified in the last two weeks. Lt. Joshua Hardee talked with Bigfoot 99 about the process of expanding WHP’s K-9 program.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Fentanyl-Dogs-1.mp3The first WHP dog trained to detect fentanyl was K-9 Officer Reno. Lt. Hardee said Reno’s training allowed the Highway Patrol to pull illegal fentanyl off the streets.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Fentanyl-Dogs-2.mp3Lt. Hardee said the Highway Patrol expanded its training program after seeing the success of Officer Reno. The next generation of canine officers graduated last week, bringing the total number of fentanyl sniffing dogs to ten.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Fentanyl-Dogs-3.mp3Training for the new batch of nine fentanyl sniffing dogs was funded by Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, or HIDTA (pronounced Hi-Da) grant. Lt. Hardee said the Highway Patrol will use future HIDTA grants to replace dogs as they age out of service.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Fentanyl-Dogs-4.mp3Lt. Hardee said some law enforcement agencies are hesitant to go after the dangerous opioid fentanyl because it is a legally prescribed pain management drug. The Wyoming Highway Patrol officer said legitimate fentanyl users carry tiny amounts.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Fentanyl-Dogs-5.mp3Carbon County has seen the effect of illegal fentanyl on our communities firsthand. At least three county residents have died as a direct result of fentanyl use. Lt. Hardee said the drug is just now making its way into the state. He said it will take the combined efforts of state and local law enforcement agencies to stem the tide.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Fentanyl-Dogs-6.mp3Not all counterfeit fentanyl is found on the interstate. Drug traffickers are avoiding the Highway Patrol by traveling through smaller towns. Lt. Hardee said municipal police officers may request to use the fentanyl sniffing dogs if they suspect someone is illegally transporting the drug.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0306_Fentanyl-Dogs-7.mp3More drugs are being laced with the deadly opioid. Lt. Hardee said the best way to avoid unintentional fentanyl exposure is to abstain from all illegal drug use.
March 3, 2023 |
Photo – Bradley Fire – Bigfoot99 File Photo
Carbon County’s Fire Protection District is beginning to take shape.
Last November, residents voted to form the first fire protection district in Carbon County. Since then, Fire Warden John Rutherford has been busy hammering out the details of how the organization will function. He said work remains to be done, but he’s happy with the progress made so far.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Fire-District-1.mp3When the taxpayer funded fire protection district is up and running, it will provide fire coverage to all unincorporated areas of the county. Fire Warden Rutherford said he still needs to finalize how towns will work with the fire district.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Fire-District-2.mp3Rutherford will need a written agreement with every town in the county on how and when the fire protection district will be called into action. He said he will try to use existing contracts to speed up the process.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Fire-District-3.mp3Once the fire protection district is up and operating, it will be funded by a mill levy assessed against county resident’s property values. At the most recent Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, the board voted to invest county money into the district to keep the organization afloat until the mill levy takes effect later this year.
Fire Warden Rutherford said he will have a new financial plan ready by July’s county budget hearings. He said the district will end up costing less to run than County Treasurer Lindsey West expected.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Fire-District-4.mp3During the upcoming budget hearings, Rutherford will make a formal request for the mill levies to be collected. The next step will be for the county commissioners to approve the tax in August. Afterwards, the fire protection district will begin receiving funding until the next fiscal year. However, Rutherford said he doesn’t know when the district will be ready to start responding to fires.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Fire-District-5.mp3When the district was formed, Fire Warden Rutherford said it would be at least two years before it was ready to respond to an emergency. He said he is cautiously optimistic it may happen sooner.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Fire-District-6.mp3The fire protection district is designed to take some of the burden off local firefighters. When the mill levies begin to flow into the fire district’s coffers, county crews will handle most out-of-town emergencies.
March 3, 2023 |
Photo – Library Books – Bigfoot99 File Photo
The Town of Hanna wants to break its utilities agreement with the county.
The Hanna Branch is one of eight libraries in the county. Carbon County Commissioners are required by state law to operate just one, in Rawlins. The board is committed to making public libraries available in every community for the young and old alike.
Officials in the Town of Hanna are seeking to lower the yearly cost of running their branch. In a letter emailed to Carbon County Library Director Maria Wenzel, Hanna Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales states that the town wants to reduce how much it pays for heating the county-owned library building in her town.
The topic came up at this week’s Carbon County Commissioners meeting. County Attorney Ashley Davis said Wenzel wanted to bring it to the commission’s attention.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Hanna-Library-1.mp3Commission Chair Sue Jones said rural towns in the county subsidize their own libraries. She added the county is only legally required to fund the library in Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Hanna-Library-2.mp3For Hanna to have its own branch, certain concessions needed to be made. Commissioner John Johnson said the county splits funding between all of the towns. He said each town is expected to contribute money toward the operation of its own library.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Hanna-Library-3.mp3As with each rural library, the county owns the Hanna building. In exchange for being part of the county library system, the town of Hanna has agreed to pay $1,500 a year for gas heat and $1,200 for water service. Attorney Davis said Hanna’s letter said the town wanted to lower their gas payments.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Hanna-Library-4.mp3The county’s building and grounds manager, Mike Newbrough, said the Hanna library, which is housed in an old doublewide trailer, has experienced higher than average gas usage. He suggested installing wireless monitors in the building to see why the heating bill is so high.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Hanna-Library-5.mp3County Clerk Gwen Bartlett said Hanna officials might need to see how their money is being used. She said Library Director Wenzel should provide the town with an itemized report of how much the county spends to maintain the library system.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Hanna-Library-6.mp3Chairwoman Jones said the county supplies each town with a copy of the county’s library staffing budget. Towns use the information to determine how much they should pitch in towards the library’s operational cost. She said it was important for each town to have some level of investment in its library.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Hanna-Library-7.mp3Attorney Davis suggested changing the contract to have the town pay the county directly. She said the change would make it more obvious where the town’s money is going.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Hanna-Library-8.mp3Hanna officials will host a workshop to reconsider the county’s library contract on March 9th . Chairwoman Jones said she is open to ideas, including moving the library into a different location. County commissioners said they will continue to review the matter.
March 3, 2023 |
Photo – Rawlins Landfill – Bigfoot99 File Photo
The Rawlins landfill is open again after winter storms blocked the road.
Heavy snowfall and blowing wind from last week’s Winter Storm Olive caused the City of Rawlins to shut down, including the landfill. After a week of being closed, the city’s landfill reopened Wednesday. Public Information Officer Mira Miller said city employees worked to clear the snow from the streets as soon as the travel ban was lifted.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Rawlins-Landfill-Open-1.mp3The access road to the landfill was completely blocked by snow drifts. Miller said landfill employees worked around the clock to clear the way.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Rawlins-Landfill-Open-2.mp3Bigfoot 99 has learned that outside contractors also used their equipment to help open the landfill road and in other areas of the city. While crews worked to plow a path, the city’s trash haulers were unable to dump garbage at the landfill. Miller said the weather helped keep things sanitary while the approach was cleared.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Rawlins-Landfill-Open-3.mp3Landfill Foreman, Patrick Martinez, said the drifts along the access road were extremely high. He said by the time landfill workers finish clearing the road, it drifted closed again.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Rawlins-Landfill-Open-4.mp3Miller said the city is working to ensure the landfill road remains passable. She said the drifts on either side of the road limit the amount of space available for traffic. Miller said to use caution when traveling on that section of road.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Rawlins-Landfill-Open-5.mp3Drifting on the access road caused a delayed start Friday morning, but Public Works employees report the landfill opened by 10:00 a.m.
March 3, 2023 |
Photo – Firefighters extinguishing blaze – Bigfoot99 File Photo
Platte Valley residents are coming together to help a family who lost their house in a fire.
A devastating fire, days before Thanksgiving, destroyed Trevor Vorn’s Riverside home. Vorn’s friends are holding a charity auction to raise money for him and his family. One of Vorn’s friends, Samantha Buffington, is organizing the event. She described some of the items available for bidding.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Vorn-Auction-1.mp3The Vorn Benefit Auction is tomorrow, March 4th, at the Platte Valley Community Center. Buffington said homemade enchiladas may be available for $14 a plate, weather permitting. All proceeds from food sales will be donated to Vorn as well.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Vorn-Auction-2.mp3Inspired by other similar auctions, Buffington said a charity benefit seemed like a good way to raise money. She said Vorn’s friends stepped up to make the auction happen.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Vorn-Auction-3.mp3Buffington is also responsible for organizing Vorn’s GoFundMe page. As of the reporting of this story, almost $6,000 has been raised. Buffington said attendees can donate to the fundraiser during the auction.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Vorn-Auction-4.mp3Bidding starts at 3:30. Buffington said people should arrive early because the event will be run like a traditional auction.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Vorn-Auction-5.mp3Buffington said more auction items are always welcome. She said people should arrive before the event begins if they have items to donate.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0303_Vorn-Auction-6.mp3The Vorn Benefit Auction is tomorrow, March 4th, at the Platte Valley Community Center. Doors will be open from 2 to 8pm. The auction begins at 3:30pm.
March 2, 2023 |
Photo – Bigfoot99 File Photo
The Rawlins Outlaws lost by one point to Torrington in overtime Wednesday. The final score was 58-57 in the home loss for the Outlaws.
Head Coach Denver Allard said his boys came out with an early lead, but were stopped by the Blazer’s star player. Still, the game went down to the wire.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_Outlaws-BB-1.mp3Coach Allard said the boys could have done a better job with shooting the ball and avoiding fouls.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_Outlaws-BB-2.mp3The loss to Torrington dropped the Outlaws regional tournament seed to 4th. Today’s game will see Torrington play Moorecroft and the Outlaws go against Buffalo. Despite not winning, Coach Allard said he was proud of how hard the team played. He said Buffalo should be an easy opponent.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_Outlaws-BB-3.mp3Coach Allard said his team had a poor start to their season, but fought back hard. With the win-loss counter reset for the tournament, Coach Allard said he thinks his team will be able to apply what they learned from yesterday’s defeat to future games.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_Outlaws-BB-4.mp3Only seven other teams stand between the Rawlins Outlaws and their ticket to the state tournament in Casper.
March 2, 2023 |
Photo – Bigfoot99 File Photo
More than A week after Winter Storm Olive pounded our area, WYDOT is still battling the wind and snow. Only two state-controlled highways were closed Carbon County Thursday, WYO 487 and WYO 72 as crews work to continues to fight the extreme drifting that has occurred on the trouble spots. WYDOT Public Relations Specialist Andrea Staley said our area was hit the hardest and the wind is making life difficult for plow drivers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_I80-Drifting-1.mp3On Tuesday morning, blizzard conditions closed Interstate 80 between Creston Junction and Rawlins creating a 14-mile-long backup. Staley said I-80 isn’t the only road creating problems.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_I80-Drifting-2.mp3Tuesday afternoon, a tractor trailer went off the road at milepost 265, between Arlington and Elk Mountain, on I-80. Wyoming Highway Patrol closed the interstate while the mess was cleaned up. Staley said whiteout conditions combined with slick roads contributed to the crash.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_I80-Drifting-3.mp3Winter Storm Olive dumped almost four feet of snow on some areas of Carbon County. Clearing the snowfall is just the first step to opening the roads. Even several days after the storm, drifting snow can shut the roads back down. Staley said the wind will determine when plow crews are finished.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_I80-Drifting-4.mp3A comment on a WYDOT social media post said moving snow in Wyoming is like cleaning up after a toddler. It never stops and you never know where the next mess will be.
March 2, 2023 |
Photo – Bigfoot99 File Photo
The State Loan and Investment Board, on Tuesday, awarded the City of Rawlins over $917,000 in federal money for improvements Sage Creek Basin Spring Boxes.
The state loan board is comprised of Wyoming’s top elected officials with Governor Mark Gordon serving as the chairman. SLIB met this week to award $49 million in requests after receiving $158 million in requests from around the state for a variety of projects.
The board granted the entire $917,548 requested by the City of Rawlins.
Despite closed roads across the region, Mayor Terry Weickum and Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey attended the meeting in Cheyenne Tuesday morning to make the case for the request. Mayor Weickum said the money would be used to complete the second phase of a six-phase water infrastructure improvement project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_SLIB-Grant-1.mp3Mayor Weickum said the city is matching the grant with 50 percent of city money because the work is to replace about ten spring boxes. The boxes form a water collection system 23 miles south of Rawlins.
The cost of the replacement project is estimated at around $2 million. In addition to the ARPA grant, The City of Rawlins will contribute an additional $717,000 from Chokecherry Impact Assistance Funds and $238,000 from a General Fund Loan to complete the project.
The spring boxes will allow the city to capture more spring water. The current boxes have become compromised with age and are less effective at holding water. City staff report that new boxes will allow the city to capture water at rate equal to its water right in the spring.
Treasurer Curt Meir, one of the loan board members, asked if the city was going to tamper with the springs, the city’s primary water source, a practice the treasurer said has created trouble for other communities in the state.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_SLIB-Grant-2.mp3Mayor Weickum told the board the work is focused on replacing the 100-year-old wood stave pipeline and spring boxes. No work has been done on the spring itself, the mayor told the board.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_SLIB-Grant-3.mp3Neither, Mayor Weickum nor the Interim City Manager, could provide a specific answer to the board about the number of boxes that need to be replaced. According to a release Thursday from city staff, a total of 15 spring and junction boxes will be replaced.
The board unanimously approved the full amount of the city’s $917,548 request. Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder and the Governor expressed their appreciation that the mayor and city manager were at the meeting despite the roads.
According to the Office of State Loan and Investment, 97 applications totaling more than $180 million for the Chapter 42 Local Government ARPA grants were accepted between December 20, 2022 and January 23rd of this year. The state must obligate all funds must by December 31, 2024 and the money must be expended by December 31, 2026.
The springs box replacement project is one in a series of infrastructure projects the city will undertake in the next few years.
March 2, 2023 |
Photo-Deputy Joel Robertson sworn-in by Judge Dawnessa Snyder – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Two law enforcement officers with decades of experience joined the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office.
Photo – Deputy Kranenberg sworn-in by Judge Dawness Snyder – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99
Joel Robertson and Ted Kranenberg were sworn in Monday in the newly remodeled Carbon County Courthouse. Sheriff Alex Bakken described both deputies’ backgrounds.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_New-Deputies-1.mp3Deputy Kranenberg was the Marshal for the town of Hanna. Sheriff Bakken said Deputy Kranenberg wanted more responsibility, so he joined the Sheriff’s Office. Until Hanna finds a new Marshal, Sheriff Bakken said his department will cover the town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_New-Deputies-2.mp3On Tuesday, Carbon County Commissioners signed a Memorandum of Understanding, or MOU, with the Sheriff’s Office to provide a deputy for the schools. Sheriff Bakken said Deputy Robertson’s first assignment will be to act as the Carbon County School District #1’s resource officer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_New-Deputies-3.mp3Before joining the Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Robertson was the school resource officer for the Rawlins Police Department. Sheriff Bakken said Deputy Robertson’s experience made him the best candidate for the job. In his duties as school resource officer for CCSD1, Deputy Robertson will split his time between Rawlins High School and the Little Snake River Valley School. Sheriff Bakken explained what a school resource officer is.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_New-Deputies-4.mp3A school resource officer has the power to make arrests on school grounds. The Rawlins Police Department will continue to provide their own school resource officer as well. When asked if Carbon County District #1 schools needed two law enforcement officers, Sheriff Bakken said yes.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_New-Deputies-5.mp3Along with the MOU to protect the schools, the Sheriff’s Office signed an agreement with Wyoming Highway Patrol. Sheriff Bakken explained what the Highway Patrol MOU involves.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_New-Deputies-6.mp3Before the MOU, only on-duty Sheriff’ Deputies were able to help with road closures. To assist with staff shortages in the Highway Patrol, Sheriff Bakken said off-duty deputies can now cover the gates too.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0302_New-Deputies-7.mp3Sheriff Bakken said this winter’s drifting snow means it is likely his deputies will be called to guard the road closure gates soon.
March 1, 2023 |
An Encampment historian is working to add another important landmark to the National Historic Registry.
Nancy Anderson owns the house once occupied by Lora Webb Nichols. Not only did Anderson know the photographer personally, but she also literally wrote the book on Nichols. Anderson said the house, located at 808 Winchell Ave, in Encampment, should be preserved for future use.
Photo – Nichols House – by Matt Copeland (Bigfoot99)
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0224_Historic-House-1.mp3Anderson said she would need to create a charitable foundation to look after the house. Having the home listed on the National Register of Historic Places would be the first step. To be eligible for inclusion on the registry a location must be associated with significant historical events or people, embody a specific architectural style, or contain important information about the past. Anderson said her house meets all the requirements.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0224_Historic-House-2.mp3The Lora Webb Nichols house was originally built for Hetty Kyner, a well-known seamstress. Constructed in the 1890’s, the Victorian-style house was one of the first in town. Kyner didn’t stay in Grand Encampment very long and the house was rented out. Anderson said Louise Blackhall, mother of James Blackhall, lived in the home at one time. James Blackhall was the first and only forest supervisor of the Hayden National Forest and namesake of Blackhall Mountain. Evie Williams, a notable forest ranger, also rented the house before it was purchased by Nichols. Anderson bought the property from Nichol’s son, Burt Oldman Jr, in 1966. Anderson said she is putting that information on her application to the Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0224_Historic-House-3.mp3Anderson said she wants to have the application submitted by the Wyoming SHPO spring deadline. Once accepted, the house will eventually take its place on the National Historic Registry alongside other Encampment locations, such as the Willis House and the Boston Wyoming Smelter Site.
March 1, 2023 |
A group called Project Aware is teaming up with school councilors to hold a series of meetings focused on teen mental health.
In response to the ever-growing number of mental health problems among young people, Rawlins High School Social Worker, Diane MacPherson, is offering parents classes on how to keep teens safe. MacPherson described the purpose of the teen safety meetings.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_Teen-Safety-1.mp3MacPherson said March 8th’s safe driving meeting will be the first of many. Other sessions will follow, covering a variety of teen safety topics. MacPherson said a representative from the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office will be on hand to answer questions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_Teen-Safety-2.mp3The meetings are a collaboration between MacPherson and Project Aware. Chandra Buchholz is the Project Aware Community Project Manager for Carbon County School District #1. Buchholz described the group’s goals.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_Teen-Safety-3.mp3After Covid and the economic turmoil that followed, the country is seeing a lot of mental health issues crop up, with teenagers being especially vulnerable because of social media platforms. According to a Centers for Disease Control study published earlier in February, 57% of teen girls said they were depressed. An additional 30% of them said they had seriously considered suicide. Both depression and suicide numbers are up 60% from ten years ago. Depression in teen boys experienced a smaller growth, showing an 8% increase from the previous decade. Buchholz said, in her experience, teens are under a variety of new types of stress.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_Teen-Safety-4.mp3Photo – The Guardian – courtesy Google.com
Since February of 2021, Project Aware has offered teens in Carbon County School District #1 access to mental health providers. Buchholz said in-school counseling is Project Aware’s most important function.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_Teen-Safety-5.mp3MacPherson said social media is a major factor in the mental health pressures teens face daily. The upcoming teen safety meetings are a way for parents to learn how to curb unhealthy behaviors that social media often promotes and tries to normalize.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_Teen-Safety-6.mp3Buchholz said she has seen many kids growing up without mom and dad in the house. She said the breakdown of the traditional family unit may also be blamed for the increase in mental health problems.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_Teen-Safety-7.mp3Drug use is a major symptom, and cause, of mental health issues. As much as we like to think we are isolated here in Carbon County, drugs are a reality. In the past two months, three county residents have died from illegal drug use. Drugs are in our schools too. MacPherson said education is one way to help teens avoid the trap of drug abuse.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_Teen-Safety-8.mp3MacPherson said the first teen safety meeting will focus on safe driving, but parents will decide what issues they want to tackle in the next session. She said Project Aware attracted more attention to the meetings.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_Teen-Safety-9.mp3Besides helping with MacPherson’s teen safety meetings, Project Aware is also hosting regular parenting workshops, called Conscious Discipline, every Tuesday until March 14th. The free meetings are held at the Carbon County Public Library from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. Buchholz said Conscious Discipline is aimed at parents with younger children.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_Teen-Safety-10.mp3MacPherson’s free teen safety meeting is March 8th at six pm in the Rawlins High School Library. A free dinner, in the form of tacos, is included. Childcare will also be provided, with activities to keep the young ones occupied. Go to the Project Aware website at www.carboncountyaware.com for more information and additional community resources.
March 1, 2023 |
At the legislature, the clock ran out Monday on House Bill 3. As a result, Wyoming counties will retain control of assessing the wind and solar power companies in their jurisdictions beyond January 1 of 2024.
The State Assessment of Independent Power Producers bill was hotly debated during floor and committee debates. HB 3 would have returned the authority of assessing the property values of renewable energy installations to the Wyoming Department of Revenue which had conducted the assessments for a decade up until last year. A review of state law in 2020 showed that the DOR did not have the authority to conduct the assessments. HB 3 would have provided the legal authority.
In the meantime, the power to conduct the valuations defaulted to county assessors, which assess retail, commercial, and large industrial complexes in their jurisdiction.
Wind industry lobbyists testified against counties conducting the assessments, saying they were more comfortable with the state conducting the valuations.
The main argument for local control is that wind companies oversell their projects to county commissioners with promises of high tax returns, but underdeliver after the project is operating. Converse County Assessor Dixie Huxtable has been the point person for local control. Huxtable testified at a senate committee meeting in February where she said that the taxes received in her county are half of what was promised when companies applied for special use permits to build their projects.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_HB-3-Fails-3.mp3The issue of state versus local control became touchy at times during the session but HB 3 passed the House on third reading by a wide 54 vote margin on January 19.
The bill went to the Senate, where it sat. When HB 3 saw the light of day, in early February, at an appropriations committee meeting, swords were drawn. Senator Tara Nethercott, a committee member and supporter of state control over the assessments, said political opposition to the bill stemmed from “anger” over wind energy projects in general.
Photo – Capitol Building – Bigfoot99 File Photo
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_HB-3-Fails-1.mp3Sen. Cale Case, who was testifying in opposition to HB 3, pushed back hard. The long-time critic of wind farms said the real politics over who conducts the assessments lays at the state level, not with the counties.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_HB-3-Fails-2.mp3The politics did not end there.
House bill 3 languished on the Senate floor after the Appropriations Committee recommended it on a do-pass vote of 3-2 back on February 6.
This past Monday was the last day for any bill to be considered by the Committee of the Whole in second house. House Bill 3 never appeared. It is dead.
At Tuesday’s Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Chairwoman Sue Jones shed some light on what happened to the bill that her board opposed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/0301_HB-3-Fails-4.mp3The next chapter in this ongoing story is finding out whether this year’s valuations for wind farms come back from county assessors higher, lower or the same, as the ones done in recent years by the state.
March 1, 2023 |
Photo – Jail Mugshot of Max Schneider – Courtesy Carbon County Detention Center
The Saratoga man accused of manslaughter in the fentanyl-overdose deaths of two of his friends was in court on Tuesday where his bond was reduced.
Max Schneider was arrested on February 17th and held in the Carbon County Jail on $150,000 cash-only bond. Schneider’s bond was reduced to $30,000 during his preliminary hearing in Circuit Court.
The 23-year-old is accused of distributing the Schedule 2 drug, fentanyl, to Cassadee Wingo and Richard Heap. Court documents show that Schneider alleges he found a small baggie of white powder in the bathroom of the restaurant where he worked. Schneider told investigators he gave the baggie to a co-worker, 27-year-old Wingo, who then shared the drugs with 28-year-old Heap. Both died later that night of a fentanyl overdose.
Schneider is charged with one count of distributing a controlled substance and two counts of manslaughter. Following yesterday afternoon’s Circuit Court appearance, Schneider’s case was bound over to District Court.
The next step will be an arraignment hearing in District Court. A date has not been set for the hearing.
February 28, 2023 |
The Saratoga and Rawlins wrestling teams finish the season ranked in the top 10 statewide.
The Saratoga boys wrestling team placed 10th out of 22 schools in 2A at the state tournament last weekend. The weekend before, at the regional finals, Coach Jared Mason said two of his boys earned all-conference honors. Coach Mason said four boys placed in the top 6th at the state finals.
Photo – Bigfoot99 File Photo
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_HS-Wrestling-1.mp3Coach Mason said he wanted to single out another boy who wrestled well at the state tournament, Allyster Ingraham. Coach Mason said the sophomore had a great season.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_HS-Wrestling-2.mp3Even though the Saratoga high school boys wrestling team didn’t place as high as he would like, Coach Mason said he was still proud of the effort they put in. Saratoga’s wrestling coach said every member of the team is important.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_HS-Wrestling-3.mp3Every year, Coach Mason has a new batch of freshmen to train. The coach said he is looking forward to some of the talented athletes moving up from middle school. Unfortunately, Coach Mason said some of his best wrestlers are aging out.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_HS-Wrestling-4.mp3In Rawlins Outlaw sports, Dylan Sandstedt finished his first year as head coach with a 5th place finish in the state’s 3A division. Taking over from Nate Lee, Coach Sandstedt said he was proud of his team, especially when they won against his former hometown.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_HS-Wrestling-5.mp3The Rawlins girls’ wrestling team was larger than in previous years. Coach Sandstedt said practicing against boys made Brinley Green unstoppable in the girls’ division.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_HS-Wrestling-6.mp3Coach Sandstedt said six of his boys placed in the state tournament. By the end of the match two Rawlins boys, Zach Covolo and Sage Lonn, were first in their weight class.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_HS-Wrestling-7.mp3Both coaches said they were eager to see what next season has in store.
February 28, 2023 |
At the legislature, the Senate Appropriations Committee on Friday approved a House Bill that would create an advisory committee to protect Wyoming’s rights and interests regarding agreements with downstream users in the Colorado River Basin.
Pressure on Upper Basin states, like Wyoming, to enact water curtailment programs, have grown in recent years because of drought conditions across the Southwest and into California, which have water rights under the Colorado River Compact. House Bill 222 funds a full-time engineer at $200,000 a year, including the extensive travel and equipment that would be required. Senator Larry Hicks testified before the senate appropriations committee about intent of the legislation.
Photo – Wyoming State Capitol Building – Bigfoot99 File Photo
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_Sen-Larry-HIcks.mp3The full-time engineer would staff and administer the program from inside the State Engineer’s Office. One member of the committee will represent the Little Snake River system here in Carbon County.
The Appropriations Committee approved the bill on a 4-0 and one abstaining vote on Friday. HB222 passed first reading on the floor Monday.
February 28, 2023 |
Fresh from a congressional visit to the southern border last week, Wyoming Representative Harriet Hageman blasted the Biden Administration for its failures in stemming the tides of illegals and the social damage they are causing.
Rep. Hageman, a member of the House judiciary committee, said that articles of impeachment are likely to be filed against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. In an interview with Breittbart News, Rep. Hageman said Mayorkas is violating his oath of office.
Photo – Harriett Hageman on Fox News
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_-Rep-Hageman-1.mp3Drug cartels are taking advantage of the broken border to smuggle illegal and sometimes fatal drugs, like fentanyl, into the United States. Hageman said officials with the Biden Administration pose as humanitarians while unleashing policies that are “devastating communities and devastating real people.”
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_-Rep-Hageman-2.mp3The Judiciary Committee held a field hearing on the issue Thursday in Yuma, Arizona. No Democrats on the committee appeared.
Hageman said the committee heard how the unbridled flow of illegals is tearing up fields and destroying crops that are intended for the kitchen of American consumers.
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan is expected to roll out legislation to address issues related to the border crisis. Jordan opened the Yuma hearing by admonishing the members who were no-shows.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0228_-Jim-Jordan.mp3While touring the entry port of San Luis, a dam along the Colorado River between Arizona and Mexico, Border Patrol Agents told the congressional party around 4,000 immigrants cross the U.S. Border near Yuma each day.
Hageman’s comments about impeaching the Homeland Security Secretary come after Reps. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) and Pat Fallon (R-TX) have already introduced articles of impeachment, and after House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has signaled an openness to investigating.
February 28, 2023 |
Hanna will be home to the most high-tech ambulance in the west.
Thanks to a USDA grant, the Town will receive a brand-new ambulance for the new ambulance barn there. The expected delivery sometime next year. SCWEMS Director Stayton Mosbey said the medical rig will have a special emergency lighting bar installed. Mosbey said the light bar will change flashing patterns depending on the situation and time of day.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/228_Hanna-Amulance-1.mp3The lightbars are manufactured by a Michigan company called SoundOff Signal. Mosbey said the lights can synch to the pattern used by other emergency vehicles in the area.
Photo – SCWEMS Ambulances – Bigfoot99 File Photo
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/228_Hanna-Amulance-2.mp3Mosbey said the ambulance will be equipped with various infectious disease prevention measures. The SCWEMS Director said germ-killing interior lights, air filters, and surface coatings will help keep first responders from getting ill.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/228_Hanna-Amulance-3.mp3The ambulance will also be fitted with automatic deployable tire chains, like on the county’s school buses. Combined with four-wheel-drive, the new ambulance will be capable of reaching patients in remote or heavily drifted areas. Mosbey described how, once on the scene, emergency responders can use a motorized stretcher loader to automatically lift patients into the back of the ambulance. The loader has a 700-pound weight limit.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/228_Hanna-Amulance-4.mp3The state-of-the-art ambulance isn’t cheap. Mosbey said SCWEMS was able to fund 55% of the total $315,000 price tag using a no-match USDA grant. The remaining $148,000 will be covered by the county.
Mosbey said the Wyoming Department of Transportation offered SCWEMS a $25,000 grant to purchase new radios. Mosbey said the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services, or CAAS, will only award their “gold standard” certification if an ambulance has a two-way radio for each responder. The SCWEMS Director said supply chain issues may delay the walkie-talkies.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/228_Hanna-Amulance-5.mp3SCWEMS will host an open house at its ambulance barn in Encampment on May 20th. Mosbey said the event will give the community a look at the operation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/228_Hanna-Amulance-6.mp3Meanwhile, the ambulance barn in Saratoga is being expanded. Mosbey said the building is too small for meetings and training classes. The SCWEMS Director said when construction is complete, the building will have much more space.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/228_Hanna-Amulance-7.mp3Mosbey said work on the Saratoga ambulance barn is underway. Finishing touches will need to wait until after the county’s July 1st budget hearings. Once the building is completed, Mosbey said he would like to name it after Tyeler Harris, a fallen Carbon County first responder.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/228_Hanna-Amulance-8.mp3Harris was killed, and his partner, Tiffany Gruetzmacher, was severely injured, just before Christmas last year while responding to an emergency call on Interstate 80. Memorial Hospital of Carbon County has created a scholarship program in Harris’s name to train emergency medical technicians.
SCWEMS is planning on hosting an open house at the Saratoga ambulance barn after it is completed.
February 27, 2023 |
Last week’s Winter Storm Olive dumped nearly two feet of snow onto Rawlins, putting added pressure on the city’s plow crews.
Public Information Officer Mira Miller said plow crews worked all weekend to keep the city’s roads clear. She said the wind blows the snow right back onto the streets.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Rawlins-Snow-1.mp3Miller said plow crews had the major roads open by last Thursday. In between keeping drifts off the bus routes, she said plows would begin working on the back roads today.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Rawlins-Snow-2.mp3With 85 miles of road to clear, plow crews need to prioritize certain places. Miller said the area of Harshman Street by the rec center is prone to heavy drifting. She said other roads take precedence, so it isn’t likely to be plowed soon.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Rawlins-Snow-3.mp3After the snowstorms in January, Rawlins Public Works Director Cody Dill said the city moved thousands of dump truck loads of snow to storage locations. At the time, Dill said the snow storage areas were already filling up. However, Miller said the city still has enough room for more snow.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Rawlins-Snow-4.mp3Seeing predicted snow totals of up to 23 inches, city officials demanded people stay home during the storm. Miller thanked residents for keeping off the streets and letting the plow crews work.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Rawlins-Snow-5.mp3The so-called Blizzard of ‘23 crippled a large portion of the state. Pictures on social media showing snow drifts nearly 10 feet high are reminiscent of the Blizzard of ‘49.
February 27, 2023 |
A focus on family and education was the main takeaway from the Saratoga community roundtable on drug abuse Thursday evening.
Following the fentanyl overdose deaths of a young Saratoga couple, Cassidee Wingo and Richard Heap, residents were looking for answers. Part of the answer, attendees suggested in law enforcement. Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris was asked how he plans to address drugs coming into town. Chief Morris said combatting drug abuse requires community involvement.
Photo: Platte Valley Community Center – file photo
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Drug-Roundtable-1.mp3An audience member asked about law enforcement speaking to students about the dangers of drugs. Carbon County School District #2 Superintendent Darrin Jennings said the school already has a DARE program in place. Jennings said the program seems to work well in the county’s schools.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Drug-Roundtable-2.mp3Another suggestion from the audience was to have the police carry NARCAn, the opioid reversal drug. Narcan is a nasal spray that can potentially save someone from an opioid overdose. Chief Morris said his officers already carry the medication. He suggested the town set up a location where addicts can obtain Narcan.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Drug-Roundtable-3.mp3SCWEMS first responders also carry Narcan. But Narcan isn’t a miracle drug. It is only effective in preventing overdose deaths related to opioids, like heroin and fentanyl. While rated 93% effective in reversing an overdose, sometimes multiple doses are required. Kristen Teubner, a healthcare provider in town, said she has heard stories of it taking up to seven doses of Narcan before a person regained consciousness. She said administering so much of the medication to a person who isn’t able to consent poses potential legal liabilities for the person who intervenes. Teubner added the anti-opioid doesn’t prevent drug abuse in the first place.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Drug-Roundtable-4.mp3Members of the audience agreed that Narcan won’t stop people from acquiring drugs. They asked Chief Morris what he was doing to stem the flow of illegal narcotics into town. The Saratoga Police Chief said he isn’t focusing on the drugs moving through town, but the drugs that are already here.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Drug-Roundtable-5.mp3Chief Morris said the Saratoga PD is working with the Sheriff’s Office and the Wyoming Department of Criminal Investigations to find the source of the fentanyl that killed Wingo, Heap, and an unnamed Hanna man. However, Chief Morris said he could not provide any details on how the investigation is being conducted. Carbon County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Sue Jones told the townspeople to let law enforcement do their job.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Drug-Roundtable-6.mp3Hanna Marshal Ted Kranenberg said the push for marijuana legalization has changed people’s perceptions about drug use. Marshal Kranenberg said fighting drug abuse needs to start in the home. He said people need to come together to stop the drugs from getting into the communities.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0227_Drug-Roundtable-7.mp3Audience members concluded that having a drug abuse call line would benefit addicts looking to quit. Saratoga Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked for contact information of people willing to set up the call line. Everyone seemed to agree that more meetings should occur, but as of the reporting of this story, no date has been set.
February 27, 2023 |
Down to the final week of lawmaking, it’s crunch time at the Wyoming Legislature. The Joint Revenue Committee spent the weekend weighing the 21 vetoes the governor made to the supplemental budget bill.
Governor Mark Gordon explained the vetoes in a letter to House Speaker, Albert Sommers, in a nine page letter on Friday. The governor generally applauded the budget passed by the legislature, saying his vetoes represent “honest disagreements” over details, mostly the separation of duties between the legislative and executive branch. The governor said the budget attempts to legislate through spending footnotes that provide specific directions to state agencies over how and when to fill positions.
The supplemental budget, which outlines the appropriations for operating state government from July 1 of last year through June 30, 2024, authorizes 17 new full-time positions while placing over $1 billion into permanent savings.
“This is a good budget,” Governor Gordon said in his letter Friday to the House Speaker.
The governor praised the legislature for striking a balance between setting aside money for the future while addressing immediate needs. The governor noted that for every dollar of state revenue spent, the supplemental budget saves $3.50.
In addressing immediate needs, the governor pointed to the legislature working to provide property tax relief and for making market adjustments in compensation for state workers and teachers.
The governor also applauded the legislature for transferring $750 million from the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account, also known as the Rainy Day Fund, to various permanent accounts where the money can’t be spent. The governor noted that the legislature had salted away more money into permanent savings than his $600 million recommendation. The governor also applauded the legislature for passing the budget in record time.
The joint revenue committee is reviewing the vetoes to see which ones, if any, they want to fight this week during floor sessions in each chamber.
The 2023 general legislation session must adjourn by midnight on Friday, March 3.
In a second sweeping veto Friday, Governor Mark Gordon struck down Senate File 71, Enrolled Act 38 because of provisions in the farm loan program. Governor Gordon called the loan program as designed “socialist” in nature and out of synch in a “capitalist state in a capitalist nation.”
Senate File 71 set the interest rate for farm loans equal to the yield on a U.S. Treasury Security but not less than 3%.
Governor Gordon, in a letter to Senate President Ogden Driskill, noted that the low interest rate would put the state in competition with banks. The governor noted that the program was created to help farms and ranches when high interest rates set by the Fed threaten the viability of agriculture.
The governor applauded the bill for reducing the amount of funding available for state farm loans from $275 million to $50 million. The $225 million could be diverted to diverted from low-performing assets to investments that produce a better return, the governor said in his letter to the senate president.
The governor said while he supports the notions of the bill, he noted that the loan program smacked of “politically directed cheap money.”
February 24, 2023 |
Winter Storm Olive and the blizzard it unleashed on southern Wyoming trapped travelers and WYDOT snowplows alike.
Tuesday night’s heavy snow and wind made clearing the roads nearly impossible for Wyoming Department of Transportation crews. WYDOT Public Information Specialist Andrea Staley said four plow drivers became trapped north of Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0224_Stuck-Snowplows-1.mp3Pictured above: Photo via Baggs Fire and Rescue/Facebook.
A social media post by one snowplow operator said the area supervisor was dispatched to rescue them, but also got stuck. A wrecker sent to the scene also became stuck in the drifting snow. The post said it took 18 hours to free their trucks.
Staley said gate runners were part of the problem. Impatient travelers running highway closure gates got stuck. Plow truck drivers were sent to free the violator only to become trapped too.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0224_Stuck-Snowplows-2.mp3Sections of I-80 are still closed Friday morning. Staley said the area between Elk Mountain and Walcott is proving especially difficult to clear.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0224_Stuck-Snowplows-3.mp3In certain areas, the drifting snow caused plow crews to give up and move to other locations. After being driven off by the unrelenting wind, Staley said crews were finally able to make progress on the road between Hanna and Elk Mountain.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0224_Stuck-Snowplows-4.mp3Staley advises motorists to check the WYDOT 511 website for road closures before setting out. She said the Wyoming Department of Transportation Facebook page provides up-to-date information too.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0224_Stuck-Snowplows-5.mp3The Blizzard of ‘23 wreaked havoc on Carbon County’s highways. WYDOT suggests people stay off the roads during heavy snow and wind.
February 24, 2023 |
It’s finally official. Valley Village Childcare will own Saratoga’s clinic building. After months of negotiating and fine-tuning contracts and plans, the deal is done.
The Platte Valley Clinic will move into the North Platte Valley Medical Center when the hospital opens in the next month or so. The daycare will then begin the process of moving into the clinic’s current location, the Corbett Medical Building.
Elle Dana, the vice-chairperson of Valley Village Childcare, has been the point person for the daycare in the negotiations with town, which owns the building. To avoid paying the $100,000 in repairs needed for to upgrade the building for the daycare, the town, with permission from the Corbett Medical Foundation, agreed to sell the building to Valley Village for $1. The plan is to move both the daycare and Excel Preschool under one roof, allowing children to move between the two locations without leaving the building.
On Tuesday, Mayor Pro Tem Mike Cooley gave residents a chance to voice their opposition or support of the proposed sale during a public hearing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0223_Valley-Village-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of the Ray A. Corbett Medical Building. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
Several people spoke to the council. Each person agreed the town needed better access to childcare. Councilwoman Kathy Beck read a letter from Will Faust, the chairman of the Platte Valley Healthcare Project board, the nonprofit organization that is behind the North Platte Valley Medical Center. Faust, who was unable to attend, said he supported the deal.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0223_Valley-Village-2.mp3Jamie Stein is the executive director for Developmental Preschool and Day Care Center, the parent company of Excel Preschool. She said the preschool needs to move because Excel’s trailers are barely able to pass state inspections.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0223_Valley-Village-3.mp3Councilwoman Beck read a letter from Schelby Merrill in support of the sale. Merrill said having Valley Village and Excel in one building would make it so parents wouldn’t need to drive their children between the two locations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0223_Valley-Village-4.mp3Other people spoke out in support of the arrangement, as well. No one expressed any opposition to the deal. Mayor Pro Tem Cooley said he was fully behind the sale.
Later Tuesday night, during the town council meeting, acting Town Attorney Patrick Brady said the building would be returned to the town if it stopped being used for childcare.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0223_Valley-Village-5.mp3Resolution 2023-05 allows the town to sell the Corbett Medical Building to Valley Village Childcare. Reading from the resolution, Councilwoman Beck said the sale will save Saratoga money in maintenance costs and provide a beneficial service for the townspeople.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0223_Valley-Village-6.mp3After Councilwoman Beck finished reading, Councilman Jacob Fluty motioned to accept the resolution. Councilman Jerry Fluty seconded and the motion passed. Valley Village will take ownership of the Corbett Medical Building for $1. The deed won’t be official until signed by the mayor after the Platte Valley Clinic has moved out.
February 24, 2023 |
At the legislature, one property tax bill moved forward, and another died in the Senate this week as lawmakers try to make good on campaign promises of delivering relief from increased valuations of houses in Wyoming.
Some, but not all, counties saw house values inflate over the last three years as people fled other parts of the country.
House Bill 99, an income-targeted property tax refund program, passed second reading Thursday on the Senate floor. House Bill 98, a blanket property tax exemption, failed in the Senate Revenue Committee on Tuesday night. Both bills were sponsored by the House Revenue Committee.
The Senate approved an amendment to House Bill 99 yesterday brought by Senator Tara Nethercott. The amendment limits the ability to apply for the program to the homeowner, removing language that allowed an immediate family member to apply. Sen. Nethercott explained the reasoning for the amendment.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0224_Property-Tax-1.mp3The amendment passed. HB 99 would grant eligible homeowners a refund not to exceed 90% of their prior year’s property tax not exceeding one-half of the median residential property tax liability in the applicant’s county. The administrative paperwork doesn’t stop there. Eligibility is limited to households where the total income is not greater than 125% of the median gross household income in the applicant’s county. Median household income in Carbon County was around $62,254 between 2017 and 2021.
Meanwhile, House Bill 98, which would have taken $50,000 off the top of every house valuation in the state failed. The exemption would have saved every homeowner in Wyoming about $300 a year while depriving the state of $70 million in revenues over the two-year life of the bill.
Wyoming enjoys some of the lowest property taxes in the nation, 46 out of 50, in large part because the oil and gas industry bankrolls government, not the citizens. Senator Troy McKeown of Campbell County said while he liked the sentiment behind HB 98, he said it transferred the tax burden from homeowners to coal mines and oil fields.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0224_Property-Tax-2.mp3House Bill 98 was opposed by the oil and gas industry, the Wyoming County Commissioners Association, and even a taxpayer group. The exemption bill failed on a 3-2 vote.
February 23, 2023 |
A 23-year-old Saratoga man was arrested Friday in connection to two fentanyl-related deaths in town earlier this month.
Max Jacob Schneider is charged with one count of “delivery of a controlled substance,” fentanyl, and two counts of “manslaughter.”
The manslaughter charges stem from the discovery of a young couple found dead at their residence on the 400 block of North Sharp Street on Saturday, morning February 4th. The pair, Megan Cassidee Wingo, 27, and Richard Heap, 28, were suspected to have died of a drug overdose. A toxicology report on Wingo confirmed she had more than 11 times the amount of fentanyl in her blood to be fatal.
A small baggie with green, space alien heads printed on it was found near the victims. Tests confirmed the white powder in the bag was fentanyl.
Almost 10 days later, a third overdose occurred. An unidentified 34-year-old man was found dead at a residence in Hanna. Again, a small baggie of white powder was found at the scene. The drug was later identified as fentanyl.
Most of the eight pages of court documents filed this week contain the findings of the DCI investigator assigned to the case.
The Hanna victim’s housemate told investigators that the dead man was a drug user who had relapsed. According to court documents, the housemate said prior to his death, the unnamed Hanna man allegedly had lost a baggie of drugs on February 3rd in a Saratoga restaurant where he had just ingested some of the narcotic. The date corresponds with what eyewitnesses in Saratoga said during their interviews with DCI.
Early on, law enforcement was unwilling to disclose much information about the two drug cases.
Small town news travels fast, though. Last weekend, rumors of a noontime arrest associated with the overdose deaths circulated quickly. On Monday, Sheriff Alex Bakken confirmed that an arrest had been made but he did not provide any details.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0223_Drug-Arrest-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Carbon County Jail. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
After making an initial court appearance Monday afternoon, the suspect was identified officially Schneider. A local man who grew up in the Platte Valley, Schneider faces two counts of manslaughter, one each for Wingo and Heap. A third count alleges “delivery of a controlled substance.” All are felony charges.
Court documents describe how, on February 3rd, Schneider allegedly found a small baggie of white powder with space alien heads printed on it in the bathroom of the restaurant where he worked. Witnesses described how Schneider bragged about finding the drugs. When confronted by his boss about the bag, Schneider said he had disposed of it. He was reprimanded for not alerting the authorities. Witnesses who were interviewed told investigators that Schneider gave the bag of what everyone allegedly presumed was cocaine to Wingo during the evening of February 3rd.
Law Enforcement has confirmed the Hanna and two Saratoga deaths are connected.
Court documents indicate that drugs Schneider found in the shop may have belonged to the deceased Hanna man. Sheriff Bakken said DCI, the lead agency in the case, is continuing to investigate for the original source of the drugs.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0223_Drug-Arrest-2.mp3Schneider is being held in the Carbon County Jail on a $150,000 cash-only bond.
February 23, 2023 |
Flags are flying at half-staff across Wyoming today in honor a sailor from Sheridan who was killed at Pearl Harbor.
Governor Mark Gordon ordered both the U.S. and State of Wyoming flag be flown at half-staff statewide today for World War II veteran Herman Schmidt.
Schmidt, a U.S. Navy Gunner’s Mate Third Class, served on the U.S.S. Oklahoma. He was killed in action during the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor.
Schmidt’s remains were identified only recently through DNA testing and dental records. Schmidt was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart Medal, the Combat Action Ribbon, a Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Service Medal (with Fleet Clasp), the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal (with Bronze Star), the American Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.
Schmidt will be interred a war hero at Arlington National Cemetery today.
Pictured above: Herman Schmidt. (US Navy photo)
February 23, 2023 |
In Rawlins, the ongoing winter storm and its aftermath have resulted in the No Unnecessary Travel Advisory to be extended through 6:00 p.m. today.
Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey extended the travel advisory because of the poor visibility, extreme cold, slick roads and significant drifting on streets through town.
City offices and facilities also will remain closed today.
According to a city news release, dozens of vehicles, many of them four-wheel drives, became stuck in snowbound streets around town Wednesday. The stranded vehicles pose both a danger and an obstacle to emergency responders performing necessary work.
City crews are working extended shifts, but roads are still not considered passable.
City of Rawlins office and facilities, including city hall, public works/community development, animal shelter, landfill, recycling center, Business Innovation Hub, Rawlins Family Recreation Center, indoor shooting range, and the Rochelle Ranch Golf Pro Shop will remain closed today.
February 23, 2023 |
WYDOT reported Wednesday that drifting has been so bad on some highways, including 287 north of Rawlins, that rotary plows have been used to clear a path.
Even portions of Interstate 80 and I-25, which have experienced extended closures recently, have been closed while the slow-moving rotary plows eat through long, densely compacted snow drifts. Rotary plows typically are reserved to open seasonally closed highway, like 130 over the Snowy Range.
The state highway department also reported that the lengthy closures have resulted in an increase in gate runners, impatient travelers who ignore barriers and attempt to drive on closed roadways. The result is usually the same. Gate runners usually become stuck and stranded in drifts, compounding the work of highway crews.
Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris said vehicle that ran the gate on Wyoming 130 Wednesday night did not make it to their destination. Chief Morris said the driver was ticketed for the offense.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0223_Chief-Morris.mp3Pictured above: Photo from Elk Mountain/Arlington Area WYDOT maintenance supervisor. WYDOT crews are working to cut back major drifts on I-80, this one is at mile marker 250 near Halleck Ridge. Photo via WYDOT District 1 – Southeast Wyoming/Facebook.
WYDOT reminds travelers to give WYDOT plows plenty of room to work. Use caution if passing; the road behind an active plow is the safest.
February 22, 2023 |
The Carbon County Museum has a new curator. With a fresh set of eyes comes new exhibits with a focus on local law enforcement.
Carbon County Museum Director Tom Mensik said he’s completed his search for a new curator. He said Andrew Webster has come a long way to join his staff.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_CC-Museum-1.mp3While the museum has exhibits on all aspects of life in Carbon County, Mensik said a lot of display space is dedicated to outlaws. He said Webster wants to shine a light on the people who keep the county safe.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_CC-Museum-2.mp3Mensik said, under Webster’s direction, the museum will address a lack of emergency responder information. He said Webster is also reorganizing the museum’s military artifacts.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_CC-Museum-3.mp3Mensik said the sheriff and EMS exhibits are just the beginning. He didn’t get into details, but said his new curator has big changes in store for the Carbon County Museum.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_CC-Museum-4.mp3Mensik said the new law enforcement display should be ready by late summer or early fall.
February 22, 2023 |
The blizzard of ’23 turned out to be all that forecasters warned it would be. Roads are closed, so are schools. No unnecessary travel advisories are in place across Carbon County today. Light snow began falling Tuesday afternoon. The heaviest snow began around 6 p.m. and continued through the night. More snow and wind is forecast for today.
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 5 a.m. Thursday. A Wind Chill Warning is in effect from 5 p.m. this afternoon until 9 a.m. Thursday.
Wyoming is one of the first states to become engulfed in what the National Weather Service described Tuesday as 2,600-mile-long “coast to coast” storm that will impact a large portion of the country this week. It has a name, too: Winter Storm Olive. Nearly 50 million people across the country will be under a winter alert that will impact them today through Friday.
They system will bring heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain across the western and northern tier portions of the United States. Extreme impacts are likely. Historic snowfall is possible in some regions.
Here in southern Wyoming, various road closures and travel advisories are in effect.
Check the WYDOT travel information website for the most up-to-date information.
Interstate 80 is closed in both directions from Rawlins to Laramie because of winter conditions.
A rolling closure is in effect on Westbound I-80 from Cheyenne to Laramie. Eastbound I-80 Laramie to Cheyenne is open but conditions are treacherous.
Here in Carbon County, US 30/287 Walcott Junction to Rock River is closed.
WY 487 north of Medicine Bow through the Shirley Basin is closed.
US 287/WY 789 north of Rawlins to mile marker 23 is closed.
In the Platte Valley, Wyoming 130 between I-80, Walcott Jct and Wyoming 230 is closed. Wyoming 230 between Wyoming 130 and Riverside is open, but with a no unnecessary travel order in place.
I-80 between Rock Springs and Rawlins is closed.
Eastbound I-80 from Evanston to Rock Springs closed. The westbound lanes from Rock Springs to the State Line are open.
In Rawlins, with a foot of snow predicted to fall throughout the duration of the storm, a no unnecessary travel advisory has been posted within city limits.
Check the WYDOT travel information website for the most up-to-date information.
Heavy snow, icy conditions, and winds are expected to create hazardous road conditions. If you do travel, please stay as far away from all snow removal equipment and other drivers as possible due to the roads being very slick.
Carbon County Emergency Management issued a similar advisory. All unnecessary travel within the county is discouraged.
Schools in Rawlins are closed today at the order of Carbon One School Superintendent Mike Hamel. The superintendent said school is being cancelled to “help make sure students, parents and staff will be as safe as possible during the impending blizzard.”
In Carbon County School District 2, classes have been cancelled for the H.E.M. schools. Principal Eli Hobbs made the announcement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_Principal-El-Hobbs.mp3The valley schools are closed, as well. Campuses in Encampment and Saratoga are closed. Administrators say the snow day will be made up at a later date to be determined.
February 22, 2023 |
As heavy snow pounds the region, the Wyoming Department of Transportation is fighting to keep roads open and safe.
Except for a few overnight hours Monday night into Tuesday, Interstate 80 has been closed between Laramie and Rawlins due to high winds and drifting snow since Sunday morning. WYDOT Public Relations Specialist Andrea Staley said crews were working to clear I-80 before today’s blizzard.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_WYDOT-Prep-1.mp3To prepare for snow, WYDOT trucks spread a dirt and salt mixture on the roads. The salt helps prevent ice buildup while the dirt provides extra traction. Staley said high winds tend to blow the gritting material away before it can be effective so plow crews mostly focus on removing drifts.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_WYDOT-Prep-2.mp3The expected snow will impact every road in Carbon County. Staley said plow crews will be working on I-80 around the clock. Some roads will see less attention than others. Staley directed people to the WYDOT website for road closure updates and to sign up for the W-TAP program.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_WYDOT-Prep-3.mp3WYDOT advises people not to travel when the weather is bad. If you must be on the roads, Staley said the best way to stay safe is to obey the speed limit. She said WYDOT monitors conditions along I-80 and will lower the speed limit when necessary.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_WYDOT-Prep-4.mp3On January 28th, a 44-car pileup occurred on I-80, claiming the life of one person and injuring many more. Saratoga bus drivers were called to ferry the uninjured to Laramie where Red Cross volunteers were set up at the Albany Fairgrounds. Staley said speed was a contributing factor in the crash.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_WYDOT-Prep-5.mp3According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration study published in January of 2021, I-80 is the 9th most dangerous road in the country. High winds combined with ice and snow makes the stretch of highway between Arlington and Elk Mountain especially dangerous.
Travelers are advised to check road conditions at wyoroad.info or download the Wyoming 511 app before setting out.
February 22, 2023 |
In Rawlins, the public works department was gearing up Tuesday for yet another round of heavy snow on city streets.
Carbon County has experienced higher than average snowfalls this season. Today’s blizzard is putting added pressure on the city’s snow removal crews. Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller said the city is as prepared as possible.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_Rawlins-Snow-1.mp3As of last night, the National Weather Service is calling for up to 12 inches of snow in Rawlins. Miller said the city is focused on keeping the main roads open but will work on side roads if the snow gets too high.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_Rawlins-Snow-2.mp3The city received quite a bit of snow last month. If this blizzard is worse than the one from January, the city will enact its snow emergency route plan. Miller said people should avoid parking in marked locations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_Rawlins-Snow-3.mp3As reported by Bigfoot 99 this month, Rawlins Public Works Director Cody Dill said he was running out of places to store the snow. Miller said the city has room for the precipitation from this storm. If more snow falls than expected, Miller said alternative locations are available.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_Rawlins-Snow-4.mp3The snow isn’t the only danger from today’s storm. Cold temperatures are also in the forecast. Miller said to do whatever you can to prevent your pipes from freezing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_Rawlins-Snow-5.mp3Miller said city crews are ready to start clearing the roads as soon as possible. While snow removal is happening, Miller said to stay away from the plows.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0222_Rawlins-Snow-6.mp3Even after the snow tapers off, drifts will continue to be a challenge for the city street crews.
February 21, 2023 |
Various historical accounts say the blizzard of ’49 came out of nowhere. Everyone has had plenty of warning about the blizzard that will pound southern Wyoming this week.
In a sign of how bad conditions will be for Wyoming’s livestock producers, Governor Mark Gordon on Monday announced that has started the process of requesting a “USDA Disaster Designation.”
The governor also asked ranchers to take actions to prepare for the series of severe weather events that are bearing down on the state this week.
“We are well aware of the cumulative impacts this winter has brought to our ag producers,” the governor said in a statement. “The state of Wyoming is already at work with partners, including the United States Department of Agriculture and Farm Service Agency, to determine losses, the period of impact and the geographic scale of impact due to these extraordinary conditions”
The information gathered from across Wyoming will be used to submit a request for a Secretarial Disaster Designation. The governor’s office urged ag producers to contact their local Farm Service agency as soon as possible to learn about the specific information needed so data can be submitted in the correct format to expedite the process.
Wyoming ag industry, especially sheep and cattle producers, have been especially hard this winter. Mortality in herds has been high and is expected to climb. Deep snow levels and drifting has hampered efforts to reach livestock.
USDA secretarial disaster designation must be requested of the Secretary of Agriculture by a Governor or a Governor’s authorized representative. The process is streamlined to reduce paperwork and documentation requirements at the local FSA level.
After several days of high winds and closed roads, hazardous weather is forecast much of the region. The National Weather Service forecasts that high winds will continue into this afternoon, followed by snow and cold.
Winter storm warnings have been issued for both the Snowy and Sierra Madre Mountains. Prolonged moderate to heavy mountain snow has already begun and is expected through early Thursday morning. Multiple feet of accumulation are expected in the high country. Outdoor recreationists should be prepared for punishing conditions.
Blizzard conditions are expected at lower elevations by this afternoon.
An arctic front will bring widespread moderate to heavy snow to the area Tuesday evening through Wednesday evening. Snow accumulation of five inches or more are possible across much of Southern Wyoming.
The worst of the storm is expected to occur tonight through Wednesday morning.
As a result of the pending storm, today’s regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of County Commissioners has been rescheduled for February 28th. The agenda was already posted but is subject to change.
February 21, 2023 |
After three suspected fentanyl overdoses and a noon-time drug bust at a restaurant on Bridge Street Friday, the Saratoga Police Department will hold a community roundtable to address illegal drug use and what to do about it. The meeting comes after a near-total news blackout on the drug overdoses.
Earlier in the month, Carbon County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to an emergency call in Saratoga. Two residents were found unresponsive in their home. A press release from the Sheriff’s Office said the couple died of a fentanyl overdose.
An unidentified 34-year-old Hanna man also passed away last weekend. First-term Sheriff Alex Bakken said the death is related to the fatal overdoses in Saratoga.
Bigfoot 99 also received unconfirmed reports of a third, non-fatal, overdose in Saratoga. Information suggests the overdose is also connected to the three drug deaths.
Law enforcement has been tight-lipped about the fatalities. The Sheriff’s Department blamed the lack of openness on the Wyoming Department of Criminal Investigation which is the lead agency on the case.
Police Chief Mike Morris said residents, including Chair of the Board of County Commissioners Sue Jones, have contacted him asking for more information. He said the police department will host a meeting on Thursday to discuss people’s concerns.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_Drug-Roundtable-1.mp3Chief Morris said he wanted to assure everyone that Saratoga isn’t being overwhelmed with illegal drugs. He said Thursday’s community roundtable is a way to make sure the entire town is aware of what is going on.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_Drug-Roundtable-2.mp3Saratoga Police Department’s community roundtable is Thursday, February 23rd at 5:30 p.m. at the Platte Valley Community Center. Chief Morris is asking people to RSVP by calling the police department at (307) 326-8316.
February 21, 2023 |
The Rawlins community bus has run its course and needs to be replaced.
Community Development Director Lou Lascano told the governing body at its meeting in early February that he has found a replacement vehicle that meets the required specifications.
The CATS bus is popular with residents. The Community Access Transit System provides reliable and affordable transportation for low-income residents. Lascano said the bus everyone relies on is becoming less reliable with age.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_Community-Bus-1.mp3Lascano said many residents use the bus daily. When the bus began to have mechanical troubles, Lascano requested a replacement. Starting in July of last year, Lascano advertised for bids on three separate occasions, but every bid was either over budget or for a vehicle that was too small. He said the best bid was still over the Choke Cherry impact assistance limit, but it met their needs.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_Community-Bus-2.mp3Lascano said the community bus is seeing more and more use. Besides transporting people, Lascano said CATS the bus driver also delivers food to the needy.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_Community-Bus-3.mp3The new 20-seat bus is ready for delivery once the child seats and wheelchair spaces have been installed. Lascano said the factory could apply a city graphics package if the council desired.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_Community-Bus-4.mp3The council asked Lascano to bring them quotes for applying logo stickers at the factory. Considering the condition of the CATS bus, Councilman Chris Weisenburg said the new bus would save the city over $12,000 in repairs. The council voted unanimously to approve the purchase.
February 21, 2023 |
The Town of Saratoga Recreation Department and the Platte Valley Kiwanis Club teamed up on Sunday to host a winter festival.
More than 100 people turned out of for the fun and games at the kid-friendly event on Veteran’s Island that included hot chili, ice skating, and a fire pit.
Kiwanis member Barbara Youngberg described some of the fun activities available at the festival.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0221_Toga-Winter-Carnival.mp3Pictured above: Skaters begin to arrive at Sunday’s winter carnival hosted by the Saratoga Recreation Department and the Platte Valley Kiwanis. Photo courtesy Platte Valley Kiwanis/Facebook.
The food was free of charge at the three-hour event.
During the winter festival the Platte Valley Kiwanis Club sold raffle tickets for a pair of University of Wyoming themed corn hole boards. An event volunteer member won the raffle but gave the prize to an attendee from Colorado. The man accepted the gaming set and donated an unspecified financial gift to the Kiwanis club out of gratitude. According to Kiwanis member Cindy Carnes about 30 raffle tickets were sold.
The ice-skating rink on Veteran’s Island appears to be a big hit with the town’s youth. The rink was packed with skating kids during the entire winter carnival. Kiwanis members said the rink appears to be used on a regular basis even when a special event isn’t taking place. Donated ice skates are always available for free at the ice rink. The Saratoga rec department also has skates to rent for the season.
Sunday’s winter festival was the last community event the rec department and Kiwanis have planned for this winter. The ice rink will remain up until it starts to melt.
February 20, 2023 |
This winter’s heavy snow likely will not save Rawlins from water restrictions this summer. Curtailed water use looks like the new normal for the city until officials can resolve the infrastructure problems allowed to develop through decades of neglect.
The public works department is working to increase overall water supply by bringing the pre-treatment plant back to life. Progress has been slow. Even if the long-dormant facility is put back to work treating water from the North Platte River to add to the supply from the springs south of town, officials say water restrictions will be in effect again this year.
Built in 2000, the water pre-treatment plant was designed to ensure the city had enough drinking water, if drought caused shortages in the Sage Creek Basin, the city’s main source of supply. The plant can treat water from the North Platte River and make it safe for residents to drink.
The plant has sat idle for 20 years. Last summer, the infrastructure breakdowns that caused a city-wide water shortage made officials think about bringing the pre-treatment back online.
Water treatment plant operator Stevie Osborn said the pre-treatment plant will be used in conjunction with the city’s existing water treatment plant to clean the river water.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Pre-Treatment-Plant-1.mp3Pictured above: Rawlins water pretreatment plant. Photo courtesy of Bud Dimick.
Turbidity measures the presence of dissolved particulates in a water sample.
The city will begin testing the pre-treatment plant within the next month or so. The goal is to dial-in the recipe of chemicals needed to create potable water. Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller said no timeline exists for when the plant will be fully operational.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Pre-Treatment-Plant-2.mp3Before testing of the pre-treatment plant begins, the city will drain its large tanks, making space for the test water. During that time, residents may notice a change in the flavor and smell of their water. Osborn said it is nothing to worry about.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Pre-Treatment-Plant-3.mp3Even with the pre-treatment plant operational, the city would still face water restrictions during the dry months. Miller said restrictions shouldn’t be nearly as harsh as they were last summer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Pre-Treatment-Plant-4.mp3The pre-treatment plant won’t solve all the city’s water problems. Work needs to be done on the Sage Creek spring boxes, where most of the clean water comes from. Osborn said, in her opinion, water restrictions are here to stay.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Pre-Treatment-Plant-5.mp3Operating the pre-treatment plant is expensive. A constant supply of chemicals and a trained staff will be required. Osborn said the city’s best option is to improve the infrastructure it already has.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Pre-Treatment-Plant-6.mp3Water from the Sage Creek spring flows through a 32-mile pipe before reaching the city’s main treatment plant. Miller said the city has gotten two Community Development Block Grants to repair the pipeline and the treatment plant’s computer-controlled systems.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Pre-Treatment-Plant-7.mp3The city has been working with Y2 Consultants, an engineering firm out of Jackson, to bring the pre-treatment plant back online. Testing was supposed to begin in January, but unnamed delays have postponed them until later this month or early next. Even with the later start, city officials are confident the plant will be 100 percent operational by May.
February 20, 2023 |
Wyoming is suing the Biden administration over the revision of the “waters of the U.S.,” or WOTUS rule. As with a similar rule change during the Obama era, the new definition will subject additional water features—including those on private land—to federal regulation.
Wyoming is taking the lead in the lawsuit and will be joined by 24 other states.
The lawsuit follows a letter to the that the 25 governors sent to President Biden last month, calling on the administration to delay implementing the rule. The governors urged waiting until the U.S. Supreme Court decides a case related o the Clean Water Act, Sackett v EPA.
The letter notes that the revised rule creates uncertainty for rural communities and hampers the ability of states to give clarity and consistency to businesses, farms, and individuals regarding the regulatory framework for water.
In announcing the lawsuit on Friday, Governor Gordon said, “It remains frustrating and deeply disturbing that the EPA and Corps continue to ignore the voices of the states and their on-the-ground expertise when crafting this rule, which impacts the lives and livelihoods of so many Wyoming residents.”
The governor added that the lawsuit is designed to protect residents from “vague rules that make compliance difficult and costly.”
The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality and Wyoming Department of Agriculture recently sent letters to EPA, noting the state’s support for a WOTUS definition limiting federal regulatory authority.
February 20, 2023 |
In the legislature, a House Joint Resolution that urged for the slaughter and processing of wild horses as part of a best management policy died in the Senate Agriculture Committee Thursday night, but not for a lack of support among those who voted no. HJR3 died in a tie 2-2 vote. The possible tiebreaker, Chairman Cheri Steinmetz, was absent because of an illness.
Representative John Winter of House District 48 began his testimony with the intent of the bill.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Wild-Horses_Winter.mp3Pictured above: File photo of wild horses. Photo courtesy of BLM.
Public testimony from state agencies and ag groups, including Wyoming Game and Fish, the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation, and the Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA), all was in support of the resolution.
Jim Magagna, Vice President of the WSGA, said HJR3 should be backed up with science. For instance, Magagna said a 2020 BLM roundup in Sweetwater County reduced the number of feral horses to 2,145 animals, but thermal imaging last spring showed the population had rebounded quickly to more than 4,400 horses. Roundups are an ineffective tool as used now.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Wild-Horses-1.mp3Magagna said the wild horse situation on Wyoming’s landscape is “out of hand” because of mismanagement by federal agencies.
Both senators on the ag committee who voted no said they support the intent of the resolution but felt it was weak medicine. One of them was Senator Larry Hicks of Baggs. Describing himself as a 30-year veteran of the fight with the feds over wild horses, Hicks asked for an opportunity to explain his no vote.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Wild-Horses-2.mp3After HJR3 failed, Senator Hicks said the issue should be put on the list of interim topics so the lawmakers can develop an effective approach to solving the wild horse problem.
February 20, 2023 |
Many Wyoming residents only know about the blizzard of ‘49 from history books and a famous documentary about the series of storms that swept the state. Some have first-hand experience. For longtime Carbon County resident, Gene Buckendorf, it wasn’t a movie. He and his family lived it.
The infamous winter of 1949 seemingly came out of nowhere and dumped several feet of snow on the southeastern portion of Wyoming. Arctic winds whipped the gritty ice particles into huge drifting piles, some well over 10 feet high. Food shipments were delayed as highways and railroads were blocked by the enormous snow mounds.
At the time, Buckendorf was six years old and living in a mining camp near the old town of Carbon. He said, with supplies in the camp running low, his father George and his friend, Robert Bruce, drove to Elk Mountain to purchase groceries. The small town was out of food, so the two men headed toward Hanna. On the way back to the camp, with a pick-up full of supplies, Buckendorf’s father and Bruce became trapped in the snow.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Blizzard-Story-1.mp3Pictured above: Blizzard of ’49. Photo courtesy Wyoming PBS/YouTube.
Stuck on the road without any idea of when or if help would arrive, the two men were forced to make a life-or-death choice. Would they wait for rescue or try their luck in the sub-zero wind? Against the wishes of Buckendorf’s father, Bruce decided to try for Elk Mountain. He did not make it far before succumbing to the brutal cold.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Blizzard-Story-2.mp3With plenty of food and water, Buckendorf’s father was in good health when rescuers finally found his truck. He told the searchers to find his friend.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Blizzard-Story-3.mp3Bruce’s body was found not far from the stranded truck.
Buckendorf said he doesn’t really remember anything else from that deadly winter. He added that things were more difficult when he was younger.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0220_Blizzard-Story-4.mp3The infamous blizzard of ‘49 took a toll on the entire region. But the storms could not break the will of the people. Everyone helped in any way they could, sharing food and shelter with anyone in need.
Volunteers flew hay to remote homesteads, dropping it out of their planes so trapped ranchers would have feed for their livestock. President Truman declared the area a disaster zone and sent the Army Corps of Engineers to dig everyone out, a process which took weeks. People familiar with the event said snow drifts could still be found in certain areas as late into the year as September.
Now Hiring: Radio Website Editor
Bigfoot99 – KTGA 99.3 FM is seeking a website editor. It is a straightforward but extremely important job as thousands of people rely on our website in conjunction with our radio station as the only local daily news source. Our website won the Wyoming Association of Broadcaster’s Best Use of Digital Media Award – Small Market in 2022. We take pride in our work, but keep it simple and like to have fun.
Duties include:
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Please send resume and cover letter to bigfoot99.ktga@gmail.com ASAP as we are looking to fill the position as quickly as possible.
February 16, 2023 |
Wyoming’s Congressional delegation was busy Wednesday making news on different fronts.
First-term member of the U.S. House Harriet Hageman released a statement announcing her endorsement of Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential run. The announcement was no surprise. Trump came to Wyoming last summer to stump for Hageman at a large rally in Casper.
“President Trump stood with me for my election in 2022, and I am proud to stand with him in 2024,” the attorney from Fort Laramie said in the statement.
Hageman derided Joe Biden, saying that because of his policies, “our fuel prices are too high, inflation continues to soar, our border is in crisis, and the Chinese our violating our airspace, stealing our intellectual property and flooding our country with fentanyl.”
Also on Capitol Hill yesterday, Senator Cynthia Lummis co-sponsored legislation to push back on COVID-19 vaccine mandates in hospitals.
Lummis joined Sen. Rand Paul in introducing a bill that prevents healthcare facilities from denying patients medical care, including life-saving surgeries, if they are not vaccinated against COVID-19.
Lummis said “medical facilities that receive federal funding have no reason to deny care to the people of Wyoming solely based on their personal choice to get vaccinated.”
Wyoming has one of the lowest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the country.
Meanwhile, during a Senate Finance Committee hearing, Senator John Barrasso grilled Daniel Werfel, President Biden’s nominee to head up the Internal Revenue Service. Barrasso said many Americans view the White as “woke and weaponized against them,” and that the IRS, flush with massive new funding, is a big part of the White House arsenal.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Sen-Barrasso.mp3How the agency plans to use the $80 billion appropriated in the Inflation Reduction Act was a top issue in yesterday’s hearing. Democrats said it will help clear a backlog of tax returns, while Republicans expressed concern that it will be used to step up audits on middle-class Americans.
February 16, 2023 |
After the Governor’s Annual Prayer Breakfast Wednesday, Day 26 in the Wyoming Senate started on a more spiritual note than usual. Debate was delayed. The minutia of laws and statutes were set aside for several guests who shared thoughts and reflections on the big picture. The usual morning prayer was led by a priest from the Holy Apostle Orthodox Church in Cheyenne. Father R. Joseph Collins asked for mercy and wisdom.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Prayer-1.mp3Pictured above: Gov. Mark Gordon, keynote speaker Anne Beiler and First Lady of Wyoming Jennie Gordon at the 2023 Governor’s Prayer Breakfast Wednesday morning at Little America. Photo courtesy Jennie Gordon, First Lady of Wyoming/Facebook.
Breaking with the usual tradition, a second prayer was offered, this time from one of Wyoming’s First People.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Prayer-2.mp3Following the Arapaho prayer, the recently elected Chairman of the Arapaho Business Council, Joseph Goggles, addressed the Senate. Goggles served in the U.S. Marines from 1996 to 1999. He also served four years in the Wyoming Army National Guard from 2001 to 2005.
Following his military service, Goggles became a law enforcement office for the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Thermopolis. He went onto become a judge in the Wind River Tribal Court. Chairman Goggles told the Senate that the United States is a nation made of different cultures.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Prayer-3.mp3Chairman Goggles told the Senate members that he looks forward to working them on the issues that the State shares with the tribes.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Prayer-4.mp3Collaborating in the “spirit of neighbors” will be the key to building a stronger relationship between state government and the tribes, he told the Senate. The Arapaho Business Council chairman said he would not have been elected to his leadership position if he had not listened to and collaborated with others.
Following Goggles remarks, the Senate heard from the morning speaker at the Governor’s Prayer Breakfast, Anne Beiler. The founder of Auntie Anne’s hand-rolled pretzel chain told the chamber she was impressed with culture of Wyoming and said it should be exported to the rest of the country.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Prayer-5.mp3After the reflective start to the day, the Senate got down to the business of politics and hammering through more bills. The legislature only has two more weeks left to finish its business before the March 3rd deadline.
February 16, 2023 |
Governor Mark Gordon signed the first bills from the 2023 Legislative session during a public signing ceremony at the Capitol Wednesday.
The first bill the Governor signed was Senate File 0023. The “Court Supervised Treatment Programs Act” transfers responsibility and oversight of court-supervised treatment programs from the Wyoming Department of Health to the Wyoming Supreme Court.
Governor Gordon praised the legislation, saying offers an opportunity to strengthen the state’s drug treatment courts. At the signing, Chief Justice of the Wyoming Supreme Court Kate Fox expressed her support for the legislation, saying the bill will help improve the way the judicial branch addresses mental health and substance abuse issues.
The governor also signed House Bill 69. The legislation gives the governor flexibility over a state funding account dedicating to court battles against other states or even the federal government that “impede Wyoming’s ability to export coal” or that cause the early closure of coal-fired electric generation facilities in Wyoming or in other states that use Wyoming coal.
In signing the bill, Governor Gordon said, “Coal has a future in Wyoming.”
February 16, 2023 |
The 307 GoFast on Ice racing competition was a big success, ensuring that it will come back next year. The second go round on Saratoga Lake Saturday event drew twice as many racers as the event’s debut in January.
One of the of the race organizers, Susan Smith, said more contestants showed up and participated this past weekend.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Go-Fast-1.mp3Photo by Matthew Copeland/Bigfoot 99.
The sport is new to the Platte Valley. Before January 14th, a motorsport event had never been held on the thick, hard ice of Saratoga Lake in winter. Tyler Roy, another race organizer, attributed last weekend’s increased turnout to more media coverage. He said more racers meant more fun.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Go-Fast-2.mp3Track quality was a concern during the first weekend’s races. Organizers were still figuring out how to prep the course. Roy said he received compliments about Saturday’s track conditions. Besides widening the corners and flooding the track to even out the ice, Roy wasn’t willing to reveal too many of his tricks of the trade.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Go-Fast-3.mp3Saturday’s races were divided into seven different classes. Eleven racers took part in the turbo, non-traction side-by-side class. Eliberio Inallado from Cheyenne came in first. Bike short screws had eight racers. First place was Steve Stump. Levi Porter repeated his January ATV race victory. Smith described some of the other events and winners.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Go-Fast-4.mp3North Platte Enduro Racer Scott Winslow took first place in the long screw bike race during January’s event. Winslow won again last Saturday. He said the increased number of racers made him work harder for victory.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Go-Fast-5.mp3The women’s race was cut short by a crash. Thankfully, no one was injured. Smith said the entire 307 GoFast team takes safety extremely seriously.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Go-Fast-6.mp3Smith thanked everyone who helped put on the 307 GoFast on Ice races. Both Smith and Roy said they are excited to expand the event next year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Go-Fast-7.mp3Winslow said he liked the races in Saratoga. He enjoyed being able to race during the day, spend the afternoon in town, and return to his Casper home by evening. Winslow said he is definitely coming to next year’s event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0216_Go-Fast-8.mp3307 GoFast race organizers said they were thrilled by the turnout for both race days. Roy said he will work on other events during the spring and summer and come back next winter for the second running of the 307 GoFast on Ice.
February 16, 2023 |
The director of the Grand Encampment Museum took home the silver medal with his recent book about the Copper Mountain ski area.
GEM director Tim Nicklas has a passion for history and snow sports. His enthusiasm for combining the two has inspired him to author two books about legendary Colorado ski resorts. His first run at the subject was published in 2014. Titled “Winter Park Resort: 75 Years of Imagining More,” was recognized by the International Skiing History Association, or ISHA, with its top honor: The Skatey Award.
In early 2022, Nicklas was hired by Colorado’s Copper Mountain Resort to pen a history of the area. After nine months of research and writing, “Copper Mountain Resort: 50 Years of Fortitude,” was published and submitted to the ISHA. Nicklas said his sophomore effort garnered him a 2nd place finish.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_Ski-Book-1.mp3The “International” in International Skiing History Association means the award is open to participants from across the globe. Nicklas said his book faced stiff competition.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_Ski-Book-2.mp3The 31st ISHA Awards Banquet will be held at the Big Sky Resort, in Montana. Nicklas said, on top of a physical award, he is invited to the banquet. The GEM director said he hasn’t decided if he’ll attend.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_Ski-Book-3.mp3On March 21st, the multi-day event begins with a vintage ski fashion show. The next evening features a book signing followed by the awards ceremony. The gathering wraps up with a private history conference and ISHA board meetings.
Pictured above: Photo courtesy Copper Mountain.
February 15, 2023 |
A revenue bill that passed the state House last week and is now in the Senate could provide property tax relief to homeowners in Wyoming. If House Bill 98 becomes law, homeowners will see about a $300 reduction in their property tax.
The legislation allows an exemption of up to $50,0000 on homes worth $250,000 or more. The House Revenue Committee sponsored the legislation. Committee Chair Steve Harshman described it last week as a “nice little relief” package.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_HB-98-Passes-1.mp3The rush of “real estate refuges” to Wyoming since 2020 has driven up property taxes to painfully high levels for many long-time residents. The land rush in Wyoming was driven largely by the corona virus panic, with people escaping the high taxes and big populations common in big cities and “Blue” states. Wyoming has one of the lowest property taxes the nation, thanks in large part to mineral subsidies. Chairman Harshman said homeowners will save about $300 a year for two years.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_HB-98-Passes-2.mp3Homeowners in Carbon County could see an exemption at the higher end of the scale. The mill levy here is 70.5, slightly above the statewide average. Of that number, the board of commissioners here uses 12 mills on each dollar raised to fund local governments. Property taxes also pay for schools, junior colleges and special districts.
Property tax relief was touted as an issue in last year’s gubernatorial and legislative races. HB 98 passed by a wide margin on third reading last week. Opposition was fierce among critics of the legislation. House Bill 98 requires the state to backfill the lost county tax revenues with $70 million from the RainyDay Fund over two fiscal years, 2025 and 2026.
The debate came down to who will bear the costs of running the state. Some counties saw double-digit revenue increases because of increased property valuations during the real estate boom. Those counties could have lowered mill levies to provide relief at the local level, but they did not. Rep. Lloyd Larsen of Fremont County said the only entity left to pay the piper for the bills no one else wants to absorb is the same as it always is in Wyoming.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_HB-98-Passes-3.mp3These same extractive industries are asked to foot the bill while enduring political headwinds from Washington, D.C., and from some quarters within Wyoming, which are opposed to carbon-based energy production.
Other lawmakers, such as Liz Storer of Teton County, characterized the bill as a band-aid and not a real fix. Storer said the exemption will help some homeowners more than others, and the relief will only be short-term.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_HB-98-Passes-4.mp3Storer noted that the relief will be applied unevenly around the state. The $300 annual reduction in property tax might be a significant reduction in the eastern part of the state, but insignificant in Jackson and Cody.
Carbon County Assessor Renee Snider said she is working to determine what the impact of HB 98 will be if it becomes law. The assessor said the way taxes are lumped together, she did have the residential property tax figure within easy reach when we talked with her on Tuesday.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_HB-98-Passes-6_Assessor.mp3In an email to Bigfoot 99 after researching the issue, Snider said approximately 7,515 residential parcels are listed in Carbon County. The quick math (7,515 x $50K) indicates HB98 would cost the county about $35,750,000 in fair market in possible exemptions). By comparison, Carbon County’s 2022 fair market value on residential houses was $948,786,168, indicating a big impact on the county’s revenues.
The devastating impact on revenues to non-energy producing counties in Wyoming was one of the main arguments against the bill on the House floor last week. The Wyoming County Commissioners Association is opposed to the legislation.
House District 47’s Bob Davis of Baggs, who served briefly on the Carbon County Board of Commissioners, said property taxes are local problem that should be solved locally, not in a top-down fashion by the state legislature.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_HB-98-Passes-5_Davis.mp3Davis was in the minority. HB 98 cleared third reading with 46 “ayes,” 15 “no” and one absent. The tax relief package was sent to the Senate where it was assigned to the revenue committee on Monday.
February 15, 2023 |
The Upper Platte River Solid Waste Disposal District needs more members for its board. As with most organizations that rely on volunteers, local oversight committees are experiencing a lack of participation.
At last Tuesday’s Saratoga Town Council meeting, Town Clerk Marie Christen read a letter written by UPRSWDD Chairman Randy Raymer. In his letter, Raymer said the solid waste disposal district needs two more members.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_UPRSWDDB-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Saratoga Town Hall. Photo by Emma Diercks/Bigfoot 99.
Addressing the council directly, Raymer said his letter was designed to bring attention to the county’s ineffective search for volunteers. He asked the council if they had any desire of joining the solid waste disposal board.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_UPRSWDDB-2.mp3Raymer described to Mayor Chuck Davis some of the duties of the UPRSWDD. He said the board’s ads were getting lost in a sea of similar requests.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_UPRSWDDB-3.mp3Mayor Davis instructed the town clerk to spread the word about the openings online. He asked the council if they wanted to fill either of the vacant positions. Council members Mike Cooley and Kathy Beck both declined.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_UPRSWDDB-4.mp3Council members Jacob and Jerry Fluty also said no.
Raymer said he cast a wide net in his search for volunteers. The UPRSWDD chairman expressed surprise at not being able to find two people interested in joining the board.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_UPRSWDDB-5.mp3Mayor Davis told Raymer he would personally ask for volunteers.
Reading from Raymer’s letter, the town clerk said people should contact a member of the solid waste disposal district if they are interested in the position.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0215_UPRSWDDB-6.mp3Raymer told Bigfoot 99 that the board is governed by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality. Aside from adhering to government regulations, he described some of the other duties of the solid waste district board.
For more information on how to apply for an Upper Platte River Solid Waste Disposal District board opening go to Saratoga’s website at townofsaratoga.org and click on the “News” tab.
February 15, 2023 |
Interstates 80 and 25 may have seen closed more often than not last year because of weather-related closures, but traffic on WYDOT’s road and travel website broke records.
The Wyoming Road and Travel Department reported Tuesday that its 511 website registered 2.2 billion hits in 2022—the most in calendar year since the agency began keeping track of site visits.
The website shows both forecasted and real-time weather-related road impacts as well as data directly from WYDOT weather sensors, plow operators and Wyoming Highway Patrol Troopers, all combined into one convenient tool for travelers.
The top visited pages within the site in 2022 were the Closures and Advisories page, followed closely by the I-80 web cameras.
Pictured above: WYDOT web camera screenshot from https://www.wyoroad.info/
February 14, 2023 |
A 46-year-old Lander man was found dead by the interstate in Rawlins last week. Foul play is not suspected. The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office released a few more details about the incident on Monday.
Sheriff Alex Bakken said the man, Michael Gribowskas, was found beneath an I-80 overpass. Sheriff Bakken said evidence shows Gribowskas died where his body was found. He was dressed appropriately for winter weather. Gribowskas appeared to have been dead for several days before a Rawlins resident discovered the body on the outskirts of town upon his body.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Rawlins-Suicide.mp3Sheriff Bakken said it was unclear how Gribowskas arrived in Rawlins and what he was doing in the city. No belongings were found nearby. The incident is being treated as a suicide and no foul play is suspected.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of harming themselves, please call 911.**
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988or text “WYO” to 741-741 for the Crisis Text Line.
February 14, 2023 |
In Saratoga, efforts to finish Never Forget Park have been reignited after stalling out last year.
The green space commemorating Sgt. Tyler Pickett, the Iraq war hero from Saratoga, was delayed while waited town officials waited for design plans from an engineering firm. The curb and gutter plans were finally delivered last September. The town received no suitable bids during the bidding process. As a result, hopes to start the work before winter could not be realized.
During last Tuesday’s Saratoga Town Council Meeting, Never Forget Park Committee member Stacy Crimmins said her organization has been working to get the park funded and finished. She asked the council to authorize a $50,000 AARP flagship grant.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Never-Forget-Park-1.mp3Pictured above: Drawing of Never Forget Park by Stacy Crimmins.
According to the AARP website, the grant is part of the AARP Community Challenge program. Through a series of funding opportunities, the grants are used to make communities more livable for people of all ages. Flagship grants are used to create vibrant public spaces and other town improvement projects.
Town Clerk Marie Christen read the resolution allowing Crimmins to apply for the grant.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Never-Forget-Park-2.mp3Still reading from the resolution, Christen said Never Forget Park Committee members are permitted to handle the grant process. The resolution allowed Crimmins to use the grant money to fund the park.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Never-Forget-Park-3.mp3Mayor Chuck Davis requested the council make a motion to adopt the resolution. The motion was presented, seconded, and passed. Mayor Davis said he will advertise for contractors again during next Tuesday’s meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Never-Forget-Park-4.mp3To learn more about the Never Forget Park and Staff Sgt. Tyler Pickett, or to donate money, visit neverforgetpark.com.
February 14, 2023 |
Winter has been tough on the City of Rawlins. Snow is piled up everywhere and more is on the way this week.
Rawlins Public Works Director Cody Dill told the city council last week that changes are needed as to how future snow emergencies are handled.
Dill said city crews finally were able to clear back streets in some neighborhoods that had been put off for weeks. Having more employees would allow him to tackle non-priority streets sooner, Dill said.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of snow removal crews at work in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
The public works chief said the city needs a new plan to deal with excessive snowfall. Dill suggested using outside contractors when city crews are overwhelmed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-2.mp3Ideally, Dill said he would like to expand the public works department’s roster. With more workers and better equipment, Dill said he could get to the smaller neighborhoods faster.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-3.mp3The city has used same snow removal plan since 2016. Dill said he wants to work with the council to update the plan. He said he wants to expand his department, but not have workers sit idly for half the year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-4.mp3The Rawlins City Council had nothing but positive things to say about the public works department and how they battled the snow. No motion was made to address the snow removal plan but the council agreed it needed to be updated.
February 14, 2023 |
If you think this winter has been brutal, wait until you watch the Wyoming PBS documentary, “The Blizzard of ‘49.”
January 2nd 1949 began as a typical winter Sunday. Wyoming weather forecasters predicted highs in the 30s and called for light snow flurries in the mountains. An unforeseen arctic cold front combined with wet southern air creating a once in a generation winter catastrophe. Heavy snowfall was whipped into 20-foot drifts by 80 mph gusts leaving thousands stranded all across Colorado, Nebraska, and southeastern Wyoming. Over 3,300 miles of Wyoming highways were closed by the blizzard.
Sinclair’s Community Events Director Monte Thayer manages the historic Parco/Sinclair Theater. He said he wanted to show the Wyoming PBS documentary in the hopes that it puts this year’s weather into perspective.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Blizzard-Movie-1.mp3Wyomingites are known for being tough. The blizzard of 1949 put our resolve to the test. Carbon County Museum Director Tom Mensik said the primitive equipment available 74 years ago wasn’t capable of combating the snow.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Blizzard-Movie-2.mp3The snowpack made it impossible for trucks and trains to reach cities and towns. Food stores began to run low, causing some saloons to stop selling take-out liquor to ensure shots were available for bar-goers.
Ranchers were hit hardest. The high drifts isolated remote homesteads and killed livestock. Mensik said the blizzard caused widespread death among the herds.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Blizzard-Movie-3.mp3When the winds finally died down, 55,000 head of cattle and 150,000 sheep were lost. One thousand Wyoming ranches received financial assistance from the government to recoup the loss of so much livestock.
The storm mainly affected the northern part of the county. Grand Encampment Museum Director Tim Nicklas said two Encampment women needed to be transported to the hospital in Rawlins via Army M-29 cargo carriers, known as “weasels.”
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Blizzard-Movie-4.mp3On January 29th, President Harry Truman declared the area a major disaster and created Operation Snowbound. Army Corps of Engineer Major General Lewis Pick was tasked with digging out 193,000 square miles of the west. Pick said it was the greatest bulldozer operation ever organized.
When everything was said and done, 17 Wyoming residents perished in the snow. Some were trapped in their vehicles after waiting for the squall to pass. Others succumbed to the cold while seeking shelter. The blizzard ended up costing the state $9 million, the equivalent of $90 million in today’s dollars.
People who lived through the storm said the blizzard of 1949 was truly a once in a century event.
Carbon County residents are invited to the Parco/Sinclair Theater next Tuesday to watch the hour-long documentary. Presented by Wyoming PBS, Monte Thayer described when the showing of “The Blizzard of ‘49” will be.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0214_Blizzard-Movie-5.mp3Despite the deadly conditions, the snow had a silver lining, of sorts. Snowmelt contributed to a very productive spring growing season.
February 13, 2023 |
A former Saratoga Town Council member has a new mission. Jon Nelson is taking on Washington and their new flood maps.
“FEMA appears to have used subjective data in its latest flood maps,” Nelson told the new Saratoga Town Council last week. Nelson is out to prove where the Federal Emergency Management Administration went wrong at the unnecessary expense of homeowners here.
The North Platte River through the center of town has caused some minor flooding in past years. Homes along the river or on low-lying properties are the most at risk during highwater runoff in the spring. FEMA has created a new map showing which areas of the town are supposedly vulnerable to flooding. At last week’s council meeting, Nelson appeared as a concerned citizen. He said the new FEMA maps do not appear correct.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-1.mp3Occasionally, FEMA will update its disaster maps using computer modeling. Nelson said, for nearly eight years the government agency has worked to update its outdated flood maps.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-2.mp3Nelson said FEMA assembled information on the North Platte River collected over the last decade or more. He said when FEMA first presented the flood maps to the public, something about them didn’t seem right.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-3.mp3Nelson said he’s contacted FEMA officials about the inaccuracies. He and Carbon County Emergency Management Coordinator Lenny Layman asked the government to have representatives from FEMA visit Saratoga to discuss how far off their data is.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-4.mp3Nelson is a civil engineer. He owns and operates a consulting firm. The former councilman said he has some field experience but is not a trained hydrologist. He said he understands, however, how the model was created.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-5.mp3Nelson also says FEMA’s own historical data sets contradict the dire predictions contained in their flood maps.
1 of 2 Pictured above: Photo of the new FEMA flood maps. Photo by Matt Copeland/Bigfoot 99. Pictured above: Photo of the new FEMA flood maps. Photo by Matt Copeland/Bigfoot 99. FEMA adding more homes into the flood zone will cost residents more money. Properties designated as flood risk by the federal government must purchase coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program. Nelson said forcing homeowners under the federal insurance umbrella may be a way to fund a bankrupt system.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-6.mp3In 2011, Saratoga experienced significant flooding. The Army National Guard was deployed to fight the rising waters using sandbags. Nelson said FEMA provided him with the data it used to create their flood models. He said the new FEMA models indicate that more of the town would at risk of high water from less flooding than what occurred over a decade ago. The news forecast maps contradict the actual data from 2011.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-7.mp3In other words, Saratoga saw more water in 2011 but experienced less flooding than what FEMA forecasts with less water in the flood modeling used in its new maps.
Nelson said FEMA’s conclusions about future floods are not supported by the actual numbers. He said the discrepancy amounts to a smoking gun.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-8.mp3How did FEMA come up with the number it’s using in the newest flood maps? Nelsons said some of the data is based on speculation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-9.mp3After showing FEMA representatives the inconsistencies in their data, Nelson said he was ignored. Armed with what he says is irrefutable proof, Nelson said the town must decide how to move forward.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-10.mp3Nelson said it could cost the town up to $200,000 to build their own flood model and wage a legal battle with the federal government. He suggested the council move the dispute up the chain of command instead.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-11.mp3Local resident Randy Raymer expressed skepticism about going up against FEMA. Raymer is the chairman of the Upper Platte River Solid Waste Disposal District. Based on what he said was experience of battling the government in the past, Raymer said the town is unlikely to get what it wants.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-12.mp3The council appeared to agree with Raymer’s point and decided that sending a letter to the Board of County Commissioners is the best way to proceed with any challenge. Nelson said the town shouldn’t be forced to pay out-of-pocket for what is an obvious mistake.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_FEMA-Maps-13.mp3Councilwoman Kathy Beck said she would ask other municipalities about inaccuracies in their FEMA maps. The hope is that having additional towns involved would create more momentum in the dispute process.
February 13, 2023 |
A deceased male was found under an interstate overpass near Rawlins last week. The Sheriff’s Office says evidence points to suicide.
Last Sunday, February 5th, Carbon County Sheriff’s Deputies were alerted to the discovery of a man found dead. The body was located west of Rawlins near mile marker 215 by a resident chasing his dogs.
Sheriff’s deputies believe the man was the victim of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. A handgun was found nearby.
Sheriff Bakken said in a statement that the body had been there for several days. Following an investigation by the Carbon County coroner, the man was determined to be 46-year-old Michael Gribowskas from Lander.
The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office said foul play is not suspected.
February 13, 2023 |
In the legislature, the main work of the session—the state’s supplemental budget bill—is now in reconciliation. The House and Senate passed different versions. Five members from each body will meet in conference committee in hopes of negotiating the various differences, including amendments, to create a final budget.
The bill contains appropriations of $492 billion from the General Fund and another $393 billion from the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account, commonly known as the Rainy Day Fund.
The supplemental budget also includes appropriations of $119.5 billion worth of federal funds.
Governor Mark Gordon said in a statement on Friday that the supplemental budget bill will save more than $1 billion while making strategic investments for the future. The budget also addresses inflation and helps state residents by expanding the property tax refund program, a move that local governments are watching for its impact on county revenues.
February 13, 2023 |
Just like video killed the radio star, Wyoming’s new, high-tech driver’s licenses may have killed off the color photograph of the card’s bearer on front side.
Senate File 20 strikes the requirement for the photo on the front side of drivers licenses to be in color. If the bill becomes law, the color photo will be replaced with an old-school black-and-white mug shot for better clarity.
The Transportation Department is the bill’s sponsor and has the support of the Wyoming Highway Patrol. Rep. Ken Pendergraft explained the problem with color photographs on the new generation of ID cards.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_License-Photo-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of driver’s license.
A bar code printed on the next generation of licenses will give police access to a color photograph if needed. Pendergraft, who chalks up his sometimes colorful and politically incorrect remarks on the House floor to being an “old veteran,” said that listing an individual’s hair color for identification purposes has become less meaningful over time.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_License-Photo-2.mp3Rep. Bob Davis asked how the new system will affect concealed weapons permits. Both forms of identification are printed on the same kind of material.
Responses to the question from Davis varied from “none it all” to a more nuanced explanation from Rep. Landon Brown of Cheyenne.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0213_License-Photo-3.mp3The bill first passed the Senate transportation committee on a unanimous 5-0 vote then went onto pass third reading on the Senate floor by a 26-5 vote. SF 20 passed the House Committee of the Whole on first reading Friday.
February 13, 2023 |
Wyoming has won an opening skirmish in a bid to remove the grizzly bear from the endangered species list in the lower 48 states in certain ecosystems, including the Greater Yellowstone.
After reviewing three petitions, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said that two of them, including Wyoming’s case to delist grizzlies’ Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, may warrant removal from the list of endangered and threatened wildlife.
Wyoming submitted the petition in January of 2022. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced last week that it has initiated a 12-month status review of the GYE grizzly bear.
Governor Mark Gordon welcomed the news on Friday. “Wyoming has an established framework to provide adequate protection and management of the bear in the future,” Governor Gordon said. “With state management, Wyoming remains committed to long-term grizzly bear conservation.”
Fish and Wildlife will conduct a similar 12-month status review for the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem in Montana.
The next steps include an in-depth status review and scientific analysis to arrive at a 12-month finding on whether the removal of ESA protections for grizzly bears in the NCDE and GYE are warranted. If so, removing ESA protections would then be initiated through a separate rule making process, with additional public notice and comment.
Pictured above: File photo.
February 10, 2023 |
Low-income residents and first-time home buyers in Rawlins may have new housing options available if a plan for “micro” homes is approved.
At Tuesday’s city council workshop, Community Development Director Lou Lascano presented an idea for building small, 600-700 square foot homes next to Green Acres Mobile Home Park. Lascano said Shik Han, a consultant from Moab, Utah, wants to use the plot of county owned land for the project. Lascano said the houses would be built to modern standards.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Micro-Homes-1.mp3Han and his business partner Jeff Smith purchased property on Bonanza Street for a factory to build the tiny homes. Han said he plans to start small with one building and expand as demand increases.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Micro-Homes-2.mp3Han is eyeing county owned land for his micro home development. The city would need to annex the property before work could begin. Lascano said the city had unsuccessfully tried to take ownership of the land in the past.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Micro-Homes-3.mp3Han’s design plan shows a tightly packed neighborhood with houses priced in the $200,000 range.
Pictured above: Screenshot from the City of Rawlins website.https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Micro-Homes-4.mp3Han said he would like to offer some of the homes for rent but ideally, they would all be purchased by young adults or retirees. He said people could use one of his micro houses as an investment for the future.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Micro-Homes-5.mp3Han said he’ll offer a single floor plan with optional additions. He wants to create a sense of community while encouraging residents to simplify their lives and spend as much time outside as possible.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Micro-Homes-6.mp3Title 19 of municipal code dictates 15,000 square feet as the minimum lot space permitted for a single-family home. The city must amend the ordinance to accommodate the houses being built closer together. Lascano said he will use examples from other municipalities to draft a new ordinance.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Micro-Homes-7.mp3Han told the Rawlins City Council he plans to have all of the homes completed before the end of this year. After which, he will begin exporting the structures across the country. He said he chose to build his factory in Rawlins specifically because I-80 would make transportation easier.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Micro-Homes-8.mp3City council members said they liked the idea. Before any real work could begin on the project, however, the land would need to be taken from the county, and city zoning ordinances amended.
1 of 7 Pictured above: Screenshot from the City of Rawlins website. Low-income residents and first-time home buyers in Rawlins may have new housing options available if a plan for “micro” homes is approved.At Tuesday’s city council workshop, Community Development Director Lou Lascano presented an idea for building small, 600-700 square foot homes next to Green Acres Mobile Home Park. Pictured above: Screenshot from the City of Rawlins website. Pictured above: Screenshot from the City of Rawlins website. Pictured above: Screenshot from the City of Rawlins website. Pictured above: Screenshot from the City of Rawlins website. Pictured above: Screenshot from the City of Rawlins website. Pictured above: Screenshot from the City of Rawlins website.
February 10, 2023 |
A potential mountain lion sighting near the Encampment school this week turned out to be a false alarm.
The potential threat prompted Encampment officials to lock down the school.
On Tuesday afternoon, an Encampment resident claimed to have spotted a mountain lion eating a deer carcass on the west side of the Encampment K-12 School. After reporting the incident to the police, the school issued a lockdown at 1:35 p.m. Local law enforcement and Wyoming Game and Fish Department personnel searched for the big cat.
WGFD Wildlife Biologist Teal Cufaude said Game Warden Levi Wood tracked the animal to a house in town. Turns out, it wasn’t a mountain lion after all, but a local dog.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Mountain-Lion-1.mp3The mountain lion was someone’s pet: a large breed dog. After the discovery was made, the school ended their lockdown. The entire ordeal took around 40 minutes to resolve.
Mountain lion sightings are not uncommon in the Platte Valley. The cats are on the move in winter searching for prey. Their hunts may bring them into town. The big cants can be a danger to humans and their pets. Wyoming Game and Fish Department is responsible for removing the predators, including by lethal means if necessary.
Last week, a mountain lion was spotted in Saratoga at the hot pools. A deer carcass was discovered near the sighting. A search for the animal proved unsuccessful. Cufaude said the lion hasn’t reappeared.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Mountain-Lion-2.mp3During Tuesday’s Saratoga Town Council meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis said the mountain lion isn’t the town’s only animal-related issue. He said he will meet with officials to address wildlife concerns.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Mountain-Lion-3.mp3The whereabouts of the cat reportedly spotted in Saratoga are unknown. It may have moved on. Residents across the Platte Valley should be aware that the harsh winter and deep snows could drive predators into human occupied areas.
February 10, 2023 |
The South Central Sage-Grouse Working Group will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, February 21st at the Carbon County Higher Education Center in Rawlins. A ZOOM video option is available to join remotely.
The working group will discuss the FY 23 project proposal submitted by the Carbon County Predator Management District and the local working group’s membership.
The meeting will be held from 1-5 p.m. in Classroom #1 at the CCHEC.
The South Central Sage-Grouse Working Group is one of eight local working groups in Wyoming. Each is composed of citizens representing various stakeholder groups interested in sage-grouse conservation and associated land management issues.
Pictured above: File photo of sage grouse. Photo by Jim O’Reilly/Bigfoot 99.
February 10, 2023 |
As Bigfoot 99 reported on Thursday, the Carbon County Board of Commissioners has delayed creating and funding a new position—a deputy emergency manager—until some financial questions can be answered during the upcoming budget process.
At Tuesday’s commissioners meeting, Emergency Management Coordinator Lenny Layman asked the board to approve an assistant for him. Commission Chair Sue Jones said more discussion is needed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Deputy-EM-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of the Board of Carbon County Commissioners. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Last year, Layman asked the commission to approve a deputy EM. He said it would ease some of his workload and make his office more efficient. A grant would cover half of the deputy’s salary. Layman asked each municipality in the county for a written agreement to contribute a portion of the salary not covered by the county.
Chairperson Jones told Bigfoot 99 that each town’s share was based on population. The sitting town councils agreed to contribute, but Jones said the county needs to be sure future councils will uphold their end of the bargain.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Deputy-EM-2.mp3Another question surrounding a partial funding agreement for the new position between the county and the towns is whether the municipalities would demand that the deputy EM focus more on their needs. Chairperson Jones said the memorandum of understanding, or MOU, would address that situation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Deputy-EM-3.mp3Carbon County Attorney Ashley Davis is drafting the MOU. Chairperson Jones said the commissioners haven’t decided that working with the towns is the way they will go.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Deputy-EM-4.mp3Jones said the commission may not accept funding from the municipalities at all. The county might find the money for the deputy emergency manager’s salary when they put together the budget in May. The board chair said taking the towns out of the mix could avoid future headaches.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Deputy-EM-5.mp3Jones added that working with the towns isn’t off the table, though.
Although Tuesday’s discussion with Layman seemed dramatic at times with Layman not hearing the response he was seeking, Jones stressed that delaying the decision doesn’t mean it will never happen. The county commissioners simply need to make sure money is in the budget for Layman’s deputy emergency manager. Jones added the decision wasn’t a statement on Layman’s performance.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0210_Deputy-EM-6.mp3Jones said whether the towns contribute or not, now isn’t the right time to create a new county position. The budget process begins in another month.
February 9, 2023 |
A request by Carbon County Emergency Management Coordinator Lenny Layman to hire an assistant was put on hold by county commissioners. Layman has secured some funding for a deputy. The board was supportive but told Layman they want to delay a decision until budget time.
Layman is a one-man show. He’s responsible for planning, creating, and enacting disaster response programs for the entire county. He also assists municipalities with writing grants for federal disaster assistance.
Last year, Layman received permission from county commissioners to apply for a grant to cover half of the salary of a deputy emergency manager. Layman, with grant money secured, asked the Carbon County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday to approve the position.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Emergency-Mgt-Request-1.mp3Chairperson Sue Jones said Layman should wait until the annual budget hearings next month to ensure the county has the funding to cover the other half of the deputy’s salary. Layman said he needed an answer now so he could apply for a second salary grant.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Emergency-Mgt-Request-2.mp3In Layman’s original plan, each municipality in Carbon County would contribute towards the remaining half of the deputy emergency manager’s pay. Layman said the plan fell through but didn’t say why or offer details.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Emergency-Mgt-Request-3.mp3The grant application for the deputy emergency manager includes a salary in the range of $56,000 a year. Commissioner Byron Barkhurst asked where the other half of money would come from. Layman said his focus was entirely on getting the grant.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Emergency-Mgt-Request-4.mp3Commissioner John Johnson said he supported hiring a deputy for Layman when the towns were pitching in the other half of the salary. With the funding source no longer on the table, he said the commission needs to keep an eye on the budget.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Emergency-Mgt-Request-5.mp3The commissioners agreed that Layman is doing a great job as the county’s emergency management coordinator. Layman said, with a deputy he could accomplish even more.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Emergency-Mgt-Request-6.mp3The commissioners said the county would benefit from Layman having an assistant. The job may be too much for one person to handle. However, the commission needs to budget for the position first. In the meantime, Chairperson Jones suggested Layman take a vacation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Emergency-Mgt-Request-7.mp3Layman said no untrained person could effectively cover his job if he takes time off now. He said the commission doesn’t understand what he does.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Emergency-Mgt-Request-8.mp3Chairperson Jones told Layman that the suggestion was not an insult. She added that the board is duty-bound to ensure money is in the budget before approving Layman’s request.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Emergency-Mgt-Request-9.mp3Chairperson Jones reiterated to Layman that delaying the deputy position wasn’t personal. She agreed he needs the help. Jones said it was simply about making sure the county could afford to pay his assistant before they moving forward.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Emergency-Mgt-Request-10.mp3The commission instructed Layman to apply for the next round of salary grants in anticipation of their approval of his deputy emergency manager.
February 9, 2023 |
The Platte Valley Clinic in Saratoga is providing free skin cancer screenings to the public during the month of February. The free screenings are being offered as part of National Cancer Prevention Month.
When abnormal tissue or cancer is found early, it may be easier to treat or cure.
Routine screenings for skin cancer should start at age 20 for both men and women, or earlier of any suspicious skin conditions arise. A skin cancer screening can be completed in about 15 minutes.
To schedule a free skin cancer screening or for more information about other cancer screenings, call the Platte Valley Clinic at (307) 326-3169.
February 9, 2023 |
The Wyoming Highway Patrol arrested a California man at an I-80 rest area in Sweetwater County Saturday afternoon February 4, while responding to a call about a possible domestic disturbance.
The initial call to dispatch reported that the incident involved a female driver of a semi-tractor-trailer and a male passenger.
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers located the truck parked in the eastbound lot of the Bitter Creek Rest Area in Sweetwater County. During the contact, troopers learned that the male had smuggled himself uninvited aboard commercial rig.
The driver told troopers that her ex-boyfriend had boarded the vehicle without her knowledge in California. She alleged that he had physically and sexually abused her in the truck over several days while she was transporting the commercial cargo. She also said he stabbed her in the leg.
The male initially gave a false name, but was identified as Alejandro Delgado, and had an active warrant for his arrest in California.
Mr. Delgado was arrested on a felony parole violation out of Bakersfield and a misdemeanor charge of interfering with a police officer.
February 9, 2023 |
At the Wyoming Legislature Wednesday, the Senate passed another law prohibiting medical procedures on children related to gender reassignment.
Senate File 144, sponsored by Sen. Anthony Bouchard of Cheyenne, sailed through third reading on a 26-5 vote. Yesterday’s margin was wider than the 22-9 vote last week on SF 111—Child Abuse-Change of Sex—sponsored by Natrona County’s Charles Scott.
Senator Larry Hicks of Carbon County was an “aye” vote on both bills.
Before Wednesday’s vote, Sen. Stephan Pappas questioned whether passage of the bill, which has an effective date of July 1, 2023, would pit Wyoming against an upcoming federal mandate from the Biden administration requiring insurance companies must pay for gender-altering procedures on children.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_SF-144-Passes-1.mp3The sponsor of the bill, Sen. Bouchard, said insurance companies present during committee hearings on the legislation did not raise any concerns.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_SF-144-Passes-2.mp3SF 144, also known as “Chloe’s Law” passed the Senate Labor last week on a unanimous 5-0 vote. Sen. Pappas, despite his concerns about potential conflicts with insurance companies, vote “aye.” The legislation now goes to the House.
February 9, 2023 |
In the House, a resolution to allow the slaughter and processing of wild horses passed on third reading Wednesday.
House Joint Resolution 3 has been flying under the radar since it was received for introduction on January 13. It came up for debate on Monday, the last day for consideration of bills by the Committee of the Whole. Rep. John Winter, the resolution’s sponsor, said the intent of the legislation is to get the attention of the Wyoming Congressional delegation. Winter said wild horses are a continuing problem because federal agencies aren’t managing the resource correctly.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Wild-Horses-1.mp3Pictured above: Wild horses in Wyoming’s Red Desert. Photo courtesy Wyoming Bureau of Land Management.
Rep. Winter said he wants Congress make changes to the Wild Horse and Burro Act of 1971. One of those changes is to allow the slaughter of the wild horses which he said outcompete other species for grazing and water.
In recent years, wild horse adoptions have declined in part because fewer people are interested and because of legal actions against gatherings. So the range is overrun.
Winter’s resolution states that best management practices for wild horses would include allowing for equine slaughter and processing for shipment to accommodating markets inside and outside the United States.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Wild-Horses-2.mp3Representative Bob Davis of Baggs agreed. Davis is a co-sponsor along with House Speaker Sommers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0209_Wild-Horses-3.mp3The issue surrounding the management of wild horses, or the lack thereof, is a serious one. Wild horses serve as a symbol of the American West and its wide-open spaces to some. The bill is largely symbolic, too, even if it passes the Houses and the governor signs it. House Joint Resolution 3 passed the House on third reading Wednesday by a wide margin. The closing vote was 57 aye and five no. It now goes to the Senate for consideration.
February 8, 2023 |
A sailor from Wyoming who was among “the lost 429” when the USS Oklahoma was gutted by enemy torpedoes and sank during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.
The long journey of Herman Schmidt from Sheridan, Wyoming, is a testimony to the commitment of the U.S. Navy.
Schmidt was a Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class on the USS Oklahoma, one of the first American battleships powered by oil rather than coal. His duties included the assembly, maintenance and repair of guns, gun mounts and gun ports. He took charge of ammunition, guns and gun crews.
On the morning of the Japanese attack, the Oklahoma was moored in Battleship Row beside the USS Maryland. The Oklahoma was among the first vessels hit.
When the attack began that Sunday morning around 7:55 a.m., many of the crew were sleeping in their racks below decks and never made it up to the main deck. A wave of Japanese aircraft struck the Oklahoma with three aerial torpedoes.
The Oklahoma began capsizing as Japanese planes strafed the deck with machine gun fire. After being struck by six more torpedoes, the Oklahoma’s port side was torn open. By 8:15, she had rolled over, trapping crewmembers within her hull.
The men trapped inside started banging on the bulkhead to get the attention of passing small boats. On December 8 and 9, after cutting holes in the exposed bottom of the ship, 32 men were pulled out alive. Banging continued through December 10, but nothing could be done. Sailors ordered to stand watch over the Oklahoma could only wait and listen until the banging stopped. In total, 429 USS Oklahoma Sailors lost their lives.
1 of 3 The USS Oklahoma (BB 37) before the attack on Pearl Harbor (US NavyPhoto) Crewmen clean the 14-inch guns of the USS Oklahoma’s forward turret. (USNavy Photo) A sailor from Wyoming who was among “the lost 429” when the USS Oklahoma was gutted by enemy torpedoes and sank during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. Pictured above: Herman Schmidt. (US Navy photo) Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Schmidt from Sheridan was among them.
When the ship was righted in 1944, 429 Sailors’ remains were recovered. Of these, only 35 were identified. The remains of 388 unidentified Sailors and Marines were first interred as “unknowns” in two cemeteries. All were disinterred in 1947, in an unsuccessful attempt to identify more personnel.
A rigorous, modern process to identify the unknowns using DNA began in 2015. The mission took six painstaking years. By December 7, 2021, the 80th anniversary of the attack, the final 33 sailors were identified.
The official identification of Schmidt’s remains was determined two years ago, although though the Department of Defense held off on announcing the news until early January when his family was fully briefed.
The Oklahoma’s plunge to the bottom of the Pacific was recorded at 1:40 a.m. on December 8, 1941. Her exact location remains unknown after being lost at sea while being towed back to California. The ship’s wheel and a section of her deck are on display at the Oklahoma Historical Society Museum. The anchor sits in downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Inscribed on its base: “Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Liberty.”
Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Herman Schmidt, who was born in Alexander, Kansas, in 1913 and raised in Sheridan, Wyoming, will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery on February 23, 2022.
February 8, 2023 |
The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office released more details Tuesday about the deaths of two young people in Saratoga over the weekend.
Sheriff Alex Bakken said the Saratoga Police Department received a call for service on the morning of Saturday, February 4th. When officers arrived at the 400 block of North Sharp Street they found two unresponsive individuals. Sheriff Bakken confirmed the victims are Cassidee Wingo and Richard “Rick” Heap, also known as Kinney.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Saratoga-Deaths-1.mp3Pictured above: Cassidee Wingo and Richard “Rick” Heap, also known as Kinney. Photo via Facebook.
Sheriff Bakken said the two were discovered by a family member. The sheriff said no foul play was suspected at this time.
Sheriff Bakken explained why the investigation is being handled by his office.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Saratoga-Deaths-2.mp3The investigation is on-going. Details are scarce. Sheriff Bakken said he is waiting for results from the toxicology report. He said it has been a long time since fentanyl was found in Saratoga. Sheriff Bakken said he doesn’t think the town is being overrun with drugs, but people should be aware of the dangers of fentanyl.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Saratoga-Deaths-3.mp3Both Wingo and Kinney’s families expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. Kinney’s father said he’s received countless phone calls from people who knew his son and were saddened by his loss.
This Friday, at 1:30 p.m., a celebration of life for both Cassidee Wingo and Rick Kinney will be held in the Platte Valley Community Center’s Great Hall. Everyone is invited.
February 8, 2023 |
The University of Wyoming is hosting the Windy Ridge Foundation Astro Camp for local middle schoolers in June.
Carbon County 7th and 8th graders are invited to apply to the University of Wyoming’s week-long space-themed camp this summer.
Twenty-four students will be chosen to spend seven days on the UW campus, staying in the dorms and eating in the school cafeteria. The Windy Ridge Foundation Astro Camp Director Dr. Daniel Dale said the kids will spend the entire time learning about science and engineering.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0208_Space-Camp-1.mp3The Windy Ridge Foundation was founded be the estate of Harry C. Vaughan, a professor of meteorology at Iowa State University. After retiring from teaching, Vaughan moved to Laramie where he built an observatory in his backyard. Dr. Dale said the organization carries on Vaughan’s love of astronomy by financially contributing to educational programs.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0208_Space-Camp-2.mp3In 2013, the Windy Ridge Foundation donated $875,000 to update the UW planetarium. The building was renamed in Vaughan’s honor.
At Astro Camp, students will experience many aspects of the engineering design process. Dr. Dale said the kids will get a taste of rocket science by launching model spacecraft.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0208_Space-Camp-3.mp3Astro Camp wouldn’t be complete without learning about the formation of the universe. Dr. Dale said students spend time at the UW planetarium peering into the depths of space. Retired NASA astronaut Steve Smith will give a presentation to the students as well.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0208_Space-Camp-4.mp3Not every activity is contained to the University of Wyoming campus. Dr. Dale said Astro Campers will explore the surrounding mountains and perform scientific experiments.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0208_Space-Camp-5.mp3The Windy Ridge Foundation Astro Camp is open to students entering 7th and 8th grade and is 100 percent free to attend. To apply, students must write an essay about why they wish to attend Astro Camp and be recommended for the program by two different teachers. Parents must also present a copy of the student’s most recent report card.
Registration ends April 30th, but late applications may also be considered. The Astro Camp runs from June 18th to the 24th. Inquiries may be directed to Mr. Max Gilbraith at planetarium@uwyo.edu.
February 8, 2023 |
The Encampment school went into lockout Tuesday afternoon after evidence of a mountain lion was spotted on the west side of the football field.
School officials reported on social media that Wyoming Game and Fish Department personnel were on site monitoring the situation. For the safety of students and staff, the school remained on lockout for the remainder of the day.
Meanwhile, in Saratoga, no new updates on the reported sightings last week of a mountain lion near the hot pools and Veterans Island.
Pictured above: Apparent drag marks left by a mountain lion dragging a deer carcass near the Encampment School on Feb. 7, 2023. Photo by Billie Helwick via Facebook.
February 8, 2023 |
A Florida man died in a snowmobile crash died Saturday after crashing his snowmobile in the Snowy Range.
The Albany County Sheriff’s Office did not release the name of the victim, but said the crash occurred approximately six miles west of Centennial near “T” trail.
According to the statement released Tuesday, the 46-year-old man was determined to be dead at the scene. Responders included responders from the Centennial Valley and Laramie Fire Departments, as well as the U.S. Forest Service personnel.
The Albany County Coroner was transported to the scene by the sheriff’s office. According to the report, only one snowmobile was involved.
File photo.
February 7, 2023 |
A young Saratoga couple were found dead over the weekend. Law enforcement has not issued an official statement on the event, but their deaths may be drug related.
According to Saratoga Police, the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office is handling the investigation. Sheriff Bakken was out of the office Monday and was unavailable for comment. The undersheriff is on vacation. At press time, the Sheriff’s Department has not released an official statement about the deaths.
What we know so far
On Sunday around 10 a.m., a local sandwich shop posted on social media about the death of an employee. The employee and her fiance are believed to be Cassidee Wingo and Rick Kinney.
Unconfirmed reports say Wingo found a small baggie of a white powder on the floor at her workplace. She told friends about the find while out socializing Friday night. Wingo brought the unknown substance home. Sometime that night or the next morning, Wingo and Kinney were discovered unresponsive by a young nephew.
Kinney worked at the grocery store in Saratoga. He leaves behind three small children.
Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris told Bigfoot 99 the Carbon County Sheriff’s Department is handling the investigation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Saratoga-Deaths.wavPictured above: Cassidee Wingo and Rick Kinney. Photo from Facebook.
Chief Morris was unwilling to confirm if the two deaths were drug related.
Both Sheriff Alex Bakken and Undersheriff Shawn Kelly were unavailable for comment on Monday.
Bigfoot 99 has learned that investigators interviewed friends and co-workers of the pair with a local police officer escorting the investigator around town. Bigfoot 99 will continue to follow the story.
A celebration of life for Rick Kinney and Cassidee Wingo is scheduled for Friday, Feb 10th at 1:30 p.m. at the Platte Valley Community Center in the Great Hall. Everyone is welcome.
February 7, 2023 |
The 7th Annual Saratoga Skijoring race was a huge success, thanks in part to all the heavy snow the region has received this year.
Competition was fierce Saturday with over 100 teams vying for fastest times at the Buck Springs Arena. Event organizer Richard Raymer said he didn’t have the final attendance figures but around 1,000 people in total attended the two-day event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Skijoring-01.mp3Pictured above: The largest jump in the 2023 Saratoga Skijoring course. Photo courtesy Saratoga Skijoring/Facebook.
Horse related winter sports are not a new concept for the town. Raymer said the Saratoga Lion’s Club hosted chariot races for nearly four decades before dwindling numbers made the games no longer economically viable.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Skijoring-02.mp3Raymer said the Lion’s Club chariot races and other winter events such as the ice fishing derby bring tourist money into the town. The event organizer said skijoring is a way to fill the gap left when the chariot races stopped.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Skijoring-03.mp3Higher than average snowfall this winter benefited the event. Raymer said the snowpack at Buck Springs Arena allowed staff to construct a more challenging track.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Skijoring-04.mp3More snow meant the track had a larger jump than in past years. Will Faust, another Saratoga Skijoring organizer, suffered significant injuries was unable to clear the distance during a run. Raymer explained what happened.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Skijoring-05.mp3Raymer said he didn’t know the final extent of Faust’s injuries, except to say he suffered several fractures. Despite the accident, Raymer said he takes safety very seriously.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Skijoring-06.mp3Team scoring is based on the fastest overall time around the track, minus penalties. Raymer said two Colorado racers won first and second place by using two different horses. The event organizer said TJ Simmons and Kevin Wilder also won money on the second day of races.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Skijoring-07.mp3Raymer and his horse Ringo, towing skier Craig Kopasz, came fifth overall, the highest place out of all the local Carbon County competitors.
Raymer said the event attracts people from a large swath of the country. He said Saratoga’s race is a major event on the region’s skijoring calendar.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Skijoring-08.mp3Raymer said Saratoga Skijoring could easily expand to host more than 100 races. The event organizer said they limit the number of competitors to keep volunteers from becoming overworked during the weekend event.
For a complete list of race winners, visit the Saratoga Skijoring Facebook page or saratogaskijoring.com.
February 7, 2023 |
Encampment’s 36th Annual Sierra Madre Winter Carnival drew large crowds despite the poor road conditions.
This year’s winter festival featured events such as a chili cookoff, human saucer bowling and snow painting. Town of Encampment Clerk and Treasurer Doreen Harvey said the lousy weather didn’t keep people away.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Winter-Carnival-1.mp3The Platte Valley Arts Council sponsored the snow painting event. Participants were given a pile of snow and 24 hours to decorate. The team of Lawson and Werner won first place with their snowy rainbow trout. Second place was Dauna Wessel with her fireplace snow sculpture.
The treasure hunt followed. The winter carnival’s chairperson Alyx Munson explained how her literary-based clues took searchers from the Encampment Opera House and back.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_Winter-Carnival-2.mp3A group of friends who dubbed themselves “The Fearsome Five” won the $140 treasure hunt grand prize. The team of Maura, Emma, Ruby, Christa, Helen and Michia solved all of Munson’s clues and returned to the opera house in 32 minutes.
Despite the weather’s best efforts to keep festival-goers away, this year’s Sierra Madre Winter Carnival was another success.
1 of 3 Photo by Mary Martin/Platte Valley Arts Council. Pictured above: Treasure hunt clues. Photo by Matt Copeland/Bigfoot 99. Photo by Mary Martin/Platte Valley Arts Council.
February 7, 2023 |
At the Wyoming Legislature, the Senate Appropriations Committee moved the independent power producers bill forward Monday on a 3-2 vote.
House Bill 3 returns legal authority of assessing the ad valorem valuation of wind and solar energy installation farms to the state Department of Revenue. The authority now resides with county assessors after a similar bill failed last year. For the previous decade, the Wyoming Department of Revenue conducted the valuations. How the DOR reached its conclusion is not public information, and the accuracy of the state valuations has been the primary question throughout the discussion of the bill throughout the legislative process over the last year.
One of the arguments for county control is that wind companies have sold their projects to county commissioners with promise of high tax returns, but underdeliver once the project is built and operating.
Converse County Assessor Dixie Huxtabale told the Senate committee yesterday that all counties oppose HB 3 and want to keep the taxing authority local. Huxtable described the situation in Converse county.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_IPP-Bill-1.mp3Pictured above: Wind turbines in Carbon County. Photo by Jim O’Reilly/Bigfoot 99.
Huxtable added that she uses the same methodologies to assess industrial sites as the state does. DOR Director Barbara Henson described the set of choices available to assessors at both the state and the local level.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_IPP-Bill-2.mp3
Director Henson said because of the uniform, table-driven formulas used in the process, she does not expect local valuations would differ much from ones done by the state.
Industry lobbyists, as they did during the public hearings in the House, said they want the valuations done by the state. Their argument is that the DOR has done the valuations historically giving companies a degree of stability. They argued that county assessments could vary wildly throwing making their business models less predictable.
The most interesting argument of the day occurred between committee member Sen. Tara Nethercott and Sen. Cale Case, who testified against House Bill 3. Nethercott said opposition to HB 3 is really a political pushback against wind energy projects at the county level.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_IPP-Bill-3.mp3Sen. Nethercott supported HB 3 when she sat on the Corporations Committee when it first drafted the legislation last year. Yesterday, she argued that county assessors are elected locally who are more apt to feel the political heat over projects than unelected state employees.
Sen. Case, a long-time critic of wind energy projects in Wyoming, said the real politics over wind energy is in Cheyenne, not at the local level.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0207_IPP-Bill-4.mp3Senators Nethercott, Gireau and Salazar were the “aye” votes. Appropriations Committee Chairman Kinskey and Senator Anderson were the “no” votes. HB 3 now goes to the Senate floor.
February 6, 2023 |
With high-country snowpack levels mounting since before Christmas, some Carbon County residents are looking forward to a green spring and summer. Others are concerned about the potential for flooding come run-off season. The Wyoming State Engineer’s Office are among those who advising that folks should prepare for high water.
Division One Water Superintendent Cory Rinehart spent last week trekking the Sierra Madres conducting snowpack measurements. Rinehart said the snowpack is already above the 30-year average in many areas. He said a warm, rainy spring could increase the possibility of flooding.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Snowpack-Levels-1.mp3Pictured above: Sandbags staged in Saratoga in 2019. Photo by Jim O’Reilly/Bigfooot 99.
Rinehart said every survey site he visited showed higher than usual amounts of moisture. Snowpack in Upper North Platte River drainage is 133 percent of the 30-year average. The Encampment River drainage area is at 141 percent and the Little Snake River is at 154 percent. Rinehart said all locations are indicating more snowpack than the previous year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Snowpack-Levels-2.mp3Rinehart said his measurements fall in line with ones taken in 2011. During that year, higher than average snowpack caused the North Platte River to overflow its banks. The Army National Guard was deployed to Saratoga to help the town fight the flooding. Rinehart said he can’t be sure the river will flood again, but it would be a good idea for residents to be prepared.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Snowpack-Levels-3.mp3The mountain snowpack isn’t the only concern. More moisture than usual exists on the lower elevations as well. Rinehart said, when the low-lying snow melts, the mountain run-off won’t have anywhere to go due to increased soil moisture.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Snowpack-Levels-4.mp3The snowpack measurements are simply a tool the State Engineer’s Office uses to help predict the likelihood of a flood. Even though the snow is already at 2011 levels, Rinehart said he can’t be sure a similar flood will happen. He recommends, however, being ready for action.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Snowpack-Levels-5.mp3After three years of drier than normal winters, the area needed more moisture. With this much snowpack already, and months to go before spring, it may be too much of a good thing.
February 6, 2023 |
Snow has been piling up at lower elevations throughout the winter, making interstate and even cross-town traffic difficult at times. In Rawlins, plow drivers are asking the public to be patient while they battle the drifts, sometimes around the clock.
Every year, the city staff prepares for a “normal” winter with snowfalls of six inches or less expected. A snow event with six inches or more accumulated in less than a day is considered a severe storm. Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller said this winter has been especially harsh. She said she wants the public to know how the city handles snow removal and storage.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-1.mp3Pictured above: A motorist stranded near the CCHEC on Harshman Street in January 2020. Photo courtesy of Rawlins Department of Public Works/Streets Division.
Miller said the city has had to deal with an unprecedented amount of snowfall this season. With so much snow, Miller said plow drivers have been clearing areas they normally avoid. She said this has caused some public confusion.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-2.mp3Just as challenging as all the now is the the wind. Rawlins Public Works Director Cody Dill said after clearing the streets, the wind will blow the snow right back where it was.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-3.mp3To keep the roads open, the city was stacking snow wherever it could, like neighborhoods and medians. Dill said he’s still tackling the occasional drifts, but his focus is now on moving the snow into centralized locations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-4.mp3Dill said he is trying to keep the main bus and emergency vehicle routes open using the city’s three plow trucks. With drivers working around the clock, he said the city has already removed several thousand dump truck loads of snow. The piles are dropped at out-of-town snow storage lots which, the public works director said are already filled up.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-5.mp3Rawlins has over 85 miles of residential streets. The plows prioritize the main thoroughfares so smaller, less-traveled streets haven’t been cleared yet. Residents have expressed concern about emergency access. Miller said the city will ensure ambulances make it to residents’ homes.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-6.mp3Staff have chosen not to plow 1,000 feet of Harshman Street between the Rawlins Recreation Center and the Carbon County Higher Education Center. Miller said the nearby open fields allow the wind causes constant drifting. She said the city would rather focus on more heavily traveled streets.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-7.mp3The city’s plow trucks also lay down salt. A thin layer of salt and dirt is used to create more traction on the icy surfaces. Dill said he’s used up about half of his available supply of salt already this winter.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0206_Rawlins-Snow-Removal-8.mp3The city street crews remind the public to drive carefully, especially around the plows. The high drifts limit visibility and make intersections more dangerous. The plow drivers are asking people to avoid areas where they are working if possible.
February 6, 2023 |
Two wolves were collared in North Park near Walden on Thursday where ranchers continue to be on guard.
Biologists with Colorado Parks and Wildlife conducted the operation to learn more about the pack that is suspected of preying sheep and cattle in the area.
The wolves were tracked with a helicopter and darted with a tranquilizer. One of the pair, gray male wolf 2101 was recaptured two years after he was first caught and tagged. His GPS collar had failed. The second is presumed to be one of the six black pups produced by 2101 and the female wolf 1084.
CPW Species Conservation Program Manager Eric Odell says both animals appear to be in good health.
The wolves in Jackson County migrated to Colorado from Wyoming and are not a result of wolf reintroduction efforts.
1 of 3 Pictured above: Wolves captured by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in North Park, Colorado on Feb. 2, 2023. Agency staff captured and collared - in one case, recollared - the two gray wolves. Photo courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Pictured above: Wolves captured by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in North Park, Colorado on Feb. 2, 2023. Agency staff captured and collared - in one case, recollared - the two gray wolves. Photo courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Pictured above: Wolves captured by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in North Park, Colorado on Feb. 2, 2023. Agency staff captured and collared - in one case, recollared - the two gray wolves. Photo courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
February 6, 2023 |
Managing retirement funds means making them grow for the investor, not advocating for leftist social and environmental agendas.
That’s how Governor Mark Gordon and the Wyoming Congressional delegation feel about President’s Joe Biden’s new rule allowing fund managers to invest the retirement savings of millions of Americans in environmental causes.
In late January, Wyoming joined a 25-state coalition in a lawsuit over the Department of labor rule that allows 401(k) managers to direct their clients’ money to ESG (Environmental Social Governance) investments rather than long-standing fiduciary standards outlined in the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).
Biden’s proposed rule impacts $12 trillion worth of retirement funds in 29,000 defined contribution plans and 5,500 defined benefit plans. It replaces the previous mandate that financial decisions be made solely on getting the best returns for the 152 million Americans who depend on ERISA for their retirement.
Governor Gordon, in a statement announcing the lawsuit on January 26th, said, “Allowing political agendas to guide managers investing Americans’ retirement accounts is unacceptable and shortsighted. Their sole responsibilities must be the best financial interests of the beneficiaries.”
The new rule took effect on January 30th. It allows fund managers who participate in shareholder votes without considering the interests of the employees and retirees they represent, to consider and promote “non-pecuniary,” or non-financial benefits. Two-thirds of the U.S. population’s retirement savings accounts would be affected.
U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., joined U.S. Senator Mike Braun (R-Ind.) and all of their Republican colleagues in challenging the rule through a Congressional Review Act (CRA) joint resolution of disapproval.
The rule puts the retirement funds of cash-strapped Americans at risk to fund social programs that may not be aligned with their views. Investors won’t have any say where their money goes or what it funds.
Senator Barrasso said in a statement that the president “is now prioritizing a far-left political agenda over Americans’ savings.”
Senator Lummis agrees, saying, “Fiduciary decisions should be made solely on investment returns not woke priorities that leave retirement accounts less valuable and less stable.”
The Congressional Review Act can be used by Congress to overturn federal agency regulations and actions through a joint resolution of disapproval. A CRA must be approved by both houses of Congress and have enough votes to override a presidential veto—a tall order given the political make-up of the Senate and the House.
The lawsuit filed by the 25 states may be more successful. The legal filing claims the rule undermines key protections for retirement savings of 152 million workers — approximately two-thirds of U.S. adults — in the name of promoting environmental and social causes — including the Biden administration’s stated desire to address climate change. It was filed in U.S. District Court, Amarillo, Texas. It says the rule is “arbitrary and capricious.” The states seek a preliminary injunction.
February 3, 2023 |
Reports of at least one mountain lion stalking the hot pools in Saratoga has prompted a multi-agency search.
On Wednesday evening, Saratoga PD issued an alert on social media about a big cat seen near Veteran’s Island and the hot springs. Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris said a dead deer kicked off the hunt.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Mountain-Lion-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of a mountain lion.
While officers never laid eyes on the big cat, Chief Morris said they found paw prints in the snow. Tracking the predator, however, proved unsuccessful. Chief Morris contacted Wyoming Game and Fish Department to remove the animal by any means necessary. The Saratoga police chief said the fact that a nocturnal creature was spotted during the day and so close to people is alarming.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Mountain-Lion-2.mp3The hunt continued into the afternoon Wednesday. As searchers began losing daylight, Chief Morris called the Carbon County Office of Emergency Management to use their infrared-equipped drone. Even with the thermal camera system, Chief Morris said the animal wasn’t detected.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Mountain-Lion-3.mp3H.F. Sinclair donated the two unmanned aerial vehicles to the county last year. The drones are available to any agency in need of their specialized tracking abilities. After receiving the call from Chief Morris, Carbon County Emergency Management Coordinator Lenny Layman brought the department’s drone to town. Layman said Sheriff’s Deputy John Moore handled piloting duties.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Mountain-Lion-4.mp3Layman said if Deputy Moore was ever unavailable to fly the drone he would personally take over the controls. He added that the drone is a very powerful weapon in the county’s arsenal.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Mountain-Lion-5.mp3Chief Morris said his department only received one emergency call about the mountain lion. He said a few people were at the hot pools at the time of the sightings. When officers arrived at the scene, more people said they saw other big cats.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Mountain-Lion-6.mp3It is unusual to see a big cat out in the daytime, especially in the middle of a populated area. Chief Morris said the weather has pushed many prey species into town. He said the cat’s willingness to come so close to humans increases the likelihood of someone getting hurt.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Mountain-Lion-7.mp3Chief Morris asked the public to call emergency responders if they spot the mountain lion. He said not to approach the animal under any circumstance.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Mountain-Lion-8.mp3Wyoming Game and Fish personnel were unsuccessful in capturing the big cat. As of the reporting of this story, the mountain lion is still on the loose. Game and Fish have yet to respond to calls from Bigfoot 99.
February 3, 2023 |
The State of Wyoming will help fund the world’s largest indoor farming research facility with a $20 million grant to a company with headquarters in California but whose roots are in Wyoming. The vertical farming research center will be built in Laramie.
The State Loan and Investment Board approved the grant Thursday for Plenty Unlimited, a San Francisco company that has pioneered both the technology, including robotics, and the food science used for indoor agriculture. Plenty’s website features a video that shows how the company grows and packages a variety of table-ready crops in its indoor facilities.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Plenty-Unlimited-1.mp3The company’s new research center, dubbed Project Jupiter, will be housed in a 60,000-plus square-foot facility built on 16 acres of land in the Cirrus Sky Technology Park in Laramie. The land was contributed to the project by the City of Laramie and the Laramie Chamber Business Alliance. In announcing the award of the SLIB grant, Governor Mark Gordon said two other states that were competing for the facility.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Plenty-Unlimited-2.mp3Two officials from Plenty Unlimited addressed SLIB at yesterday’s meeting about Project Jupiter. Arama Kukutai is a seasoned entrepreneur in the agritech industry. Kukutai was hired as Plenty’s Chief Executive Officer in January of last year. A native of New Zealand, he told the board the company focuses on innovative ways of growing fresh fruits and vegetable for markets around the world.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Plenty-Unlimited-3.mp3Indoor agriculture promises to minimize some of the challenges facing traditional practices, including year-round growing, water needs and use of pesticides. The co-founder of Plenty Unlimited is Dr. Nate Storey, who received his PhD in Agronomy from the University of Wyoming. He also received his Bachelor’s and Masters in Ag Science from UW. Storey’s area of expertise is vertical plane hydroponic production. He developed the only scalable indoor vertical farm that can grow multiple crops on one platform. Storey told the governor and the rest of the board that he is excited to bring his years of research and development back to Wyoming where it started.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Plenty-Unlimited-4.mp3Plenty Unlimited already employes 82 people in Laramie as part of its R&D team that Storey launched in 2014 while still a UW graduate student. Plenty employs 400 people nationwide. It has filed for more than 100 patents associated with its crop growing systems.
SLIB staff told the state’s top officers that the company should be able to pay back the grant for five years while creating a positive economic impact for Albany County.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Plenty-Unlimited-5.mp3One staff-produced chart for the board showed that the wages associated with the 120 new jobs will be 55 percent higher than the county median. Wyoming State School Superintendent Megan Degenfelder, who sits on the board, made the motion to approve the loan request as made.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Plenty-Unlimited-6.mp3The motion passed with only “no” vote. Secretary of State Chuck Gray was a no, but he asked no questions of the presenters and offered no comments on why he was against it. Construction will begin later this year.
February 3, 2023 |
The Wyoming Senate Thursday joined other states in banning surgical and chemical procedures to reengineer the biological sex of adolescents. Senate File 111, which passed on third reading, classifies the trendy new medical practice in the country as “child abuse.”
The final vote of 22-9 approving the legislation was met with an angry disturbance in the gallery above the senators.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_SF-11-Passes-1.mp3The Senate recessed briefly while capitol police spoke with protestor.
SF 111 bill criminalizes gender-reversing therapy on children under the age of 18, even if the parent consents. Opponents of, such as Cale Case of Lander, said the bill was an attack on freedom and the rights of families.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_SF-11-Passes-2.mp3Nationally, some medical providers have been cashing in on what Sen. Charles Scott characterized as a “fad” when he introduced the bill to the committee of the whole earlier this week.
During yesterday’s floor debate, Scott said the practice of exploiting the fears and vulnerabilities of children is a matter of good versus evil because of the permanency of the changes, including genital removal or mutilation, that are pushed on kids by adults.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_SF-11-Passes-3.mp3Sen. Rothfuss pushed back against the use of the term “evil,” saying placing a value judgement on the practice appears as an attack on what he called the LGBTQ community.
Sen. Troy McKeown of Campbell County said the legislation is about protecting children.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_SF-11-Passes-4.mp3Sen. Anthony Bouchard, who in the run-up to yesterday’s vote has spoken in graphic terms about the medical procedures used on children, said medical providers pressure parents into making decisions that are based on profit not on the long-term welfare of the child.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_SF-11-Passes-5.mp3The disturbances that led to the capitol police being called began during Bouchard’s remarks.
Having passed the Senate, SF 111 now goes to the House where more testimony from the public will be presented during committee hearings.
February 3, 2023 |
An old fundraiser in Rawlins is returning with a new name and a new format. After concerns about Covid killed their annual fundraiser, the Rawlins Downtown Development Authority/Main Street will host a Valentine’s Day-themed event next week.
Seeing a lack of community events in February, Rawlins DDA’s project coordinator, Sondra Dent, said now seemed like a good time to hold the Sweet Soiree. Dent described some of the activities on tap during the evening’s fundraiser.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Sweet-Soiree-1.mp3Auction items include jewelry, art, bottles of wine and home décor.
Individual tickets are $48 a person and include access to hors d’eouvres and the dessert table. Couple’s tickets are also available. Dent described the extras provided with the $200 “Date Night” tickets.
The money raised will go toward the DDA’s Skyline Light project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0203_Sweet-Soiree-2.mp3The Rawlins Downtown Development Authority/Main Street’s Sweet Soiree is February 11th at the Jeffery Center from 6 – 11 p.m. Tickets are available at the Rawlins DDA office at 116 4th Street in the upstairs suite, or online at downtownrawlins.org.
February 2, 2023 |
In Saratoga, repeated incidents of careless driving around school buses have risen to a level of concern with the police department. After repeated incidents of people driving past buses that were stopped to load or unload school children, Chief Mike Morris has issued the town a warning: “Keep the kids safe or get a ticket.”
The Saratoga Police Department posted a statement on social media reminding motorists it is illegal to pass a school bus with flashing red lights. Saratoga Police Chief Mike Morris said confusion exists with some drivers over whether they have to wait for the Saratoga Elementary School buses to finish loading before passing or not.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_School-Bus-Passing-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of a school bus.
Since construction work began on the Spring Avenue last year, access to the north side of the school has been blocked. The contractors were supposed to finish construction before school began last fall, which would have allowing bus loading and unloading in the front parking lot continue without disruption.
With the project still under way, school officials moved the exits to West Elm Avenue. School buses line up along the south side of the elementary school each afternoon, sometimes stopping traffic, and causing people to question the legality of driving past. Chief Morris said he has confirmed that drivers are required to stop and wait for the buses.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_School-Bus-Passing-2.mp3Chief Morris said the problem isn’t confined to the elementary school, but it is the primary area of concern. He said people have also reported seeing illegal school bus passing in other parts of town. The chief said people must stop for the school buses.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_School-Bus-Passing-3.mp3Chief Morris said loading the school bus at the school takes about four minutes in the specially designated zone along Elm Avenue. He said drivers can avoid the area all together. Chief Moore said the social media posts are a warning. If people continue to disregard the law and put the children in danger, citations will be written.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_School-Bus-Passing-4.mp3Chief Morris said he believes people are simply confused by the new school loading location. The Saratoga Police Department’s campaign is to remind people to pay attention to the flashing red lights and yield to the buses.
February 2, 2023 |
Ballot drop boxes will be allowed under a ballot harvesting bill passed by the House Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions yesterday.
House Bill 211, sponsored by Committee Chairman Jared Olsen of Cheyenne, attempts to define “good” ballot harvesting from the bad.
As an increasing number of states have made mail-in and absentee voting more accessible, more people are using absentee ballots. Despite the increased convenience, the reliance on someone other than the voter to deliver a ballot is also at an increase—a practice known as ballot harvesting, which has increased the opportunity for voter fraud.
Rules vary from state to state. Wyoming’s statutes are vague.
Rep. Olsen said his attempts to provide definitions that allow some types of ballot harvesting and criminalize others.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Ballot-Harvesting-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of a ballot drop box outside the Carbon County Courthouse in 2020. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray told the committee his is opposed to the use of drop boxes. Gray, who was elected last fall largely on his promise to tighten election security, addressed lawmakers about ballot harvesting and drop boxes. Although drop boxes, or policies regarding their use are not codified anywhere in state law, a section of HB 211 allows a third party to drop off someone else’s ballot into a drop. The secretary of state said the practice poses an election security risk.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Ballot-Harvesting-2.mp3Mary Langford with the Wyoming County Clerks Association defended the use of drop boxes, saying they are secure, well-lit at night and under video surveillance at all times.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Ballot-Harvesting-3.mp3During the Covid year of 2020, then Secretary of State Ed Buchannan first authorized the use of drop boxes in Wyoming with a suggested set of directives, including a documented chain of custody regarding the collection of the ballots from the boxes.
Langford said drop boxes have become popular in the counties that use them because they are convenient and more efficient than the postal service.
Laramie County Clerk Deborah Lee told the committee that the drop boxes were popular, especially among older voters, in both the primary and general elections last year. Lee said 4,500 voters in Laramie County requested absentee ballots in the General Election.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Ballot-Harvesting-4.mp3The clerks also provided testimony that their definition of ballot harvesting is a third-party person submitting someone else’s ballot to a county clerk to be counted without the authorization of the voter. Questions about different housing situations, including assisted living centers, required the clarification.
The elections committee adopted a lengthy amendment submitted by the county clerks’ association in its entirety, including upgrading the offense for unauthorized ballot harvesting from a misdemeanor to a felony.
HB 211 passed the committee on an 8-1 vote with drop boxes allowed as an acceptable way to submit ballots to a county clerk. The bill was sent to the House floor with a do-pass recommendation.
February 2, 2023 |
Your personal story about living in Wyoming, whether it ends happily ever after or not, could wind up in front of state lawmakers and have an impact on future policies.
Two University of Wyoming professors are collecting stories from residents, and they’ll be in Carbon County next week. Dr. Jean Garrison is a co-founder of the Malcolm Wallop Civic Engagement Program. The group is traveling the state collecting stories about opportunities or barriers distinctive to each community. Professor Garrison is compiling first-hand accounts of everyday life, both the good and the bad.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Personal-Stories-1.mp3Dr. Jason McConnell, also a co-director of the Civic Engagement Program, is working with Dr. Garrison on the project.
The program is named after the late Wyoming Senator Malcolm Wallop, who died in 2011. After serving in the state legislature for seven years, Wallop was elected to the United States Senate. He served three terms, retiring in 1995.
Dr. Garrison said the Civic Engagement Program is named after Wallop because he believed in having an open dialog between the government and the people.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Personal-Stories-2.mp3Through a series of public meetings held around Wyoming, the Civic Engagement Program is collecting photographs and stories about life in the Cowboy State through the years. Dr. McConnell will host the upcoming meetings in Rawlins and Saratoga. Dr. Garrison said anyone with a story to share is welcome to attend.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Personal-Stories-3.mp3Once stories and pictures have been collected from each community, Dr. Garrison said she and the other members of the Civic Engagement Program will compile the data into a map. She added that her group may revisit certain areas to collect more data.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Personal-Stories-4.mp3The program started by requesting photographs from people, and asking what they represent. Doctors Garrison and McConnell have begun assembling a catalog of life in this area of the country. Dr. Garrison said the idea is to share the information with educators.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Personal-Stories-5.mp3Dr. Garrison and the other members of the Malcolm Wallop Civic Engagement Program are targeting specific areas of the state to amass as many life stories as possible. She said Wyomingites have many shared experiences.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Personal-Stories-6.mp3Dr. Garrison said most people who submitted picture essays expressed pride in their small communities and love of the outdoors. She said the most common disadvantage people see about living in Wyoming is a lack of available housing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Personal-Stories-7.mp3Dr. Garrison said the Malcolm Wallop Civic Engagement Program’s goal is to share information and ideas about life in the state. She said her hope is for legislatures to take the collected data into account when drafting state policy.
Residents of Carbon County may attend the community conversation meetings next week. From 5 – 6 p.m., on Thursday, February 9th, Dr. Jason McConnell will be in Room 1 of the Carbon County Higher Education Center, located at 1650 Harshman Street. The next day, Friday, February 10th, Dr. McConnell will be at the Saratoga Public Library, at 503 West Elm Avenue, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. All dates and times are weather dependent.
February 1, 2023 |
A small, man-made tributary on the North Platte River south of Saratoga remains a danger to the town during high water. The tributary is known as Boozer Creek. The Saratoga-Encampment-Rawlins Conservation District has a plan to combat the threat the man-made channel poses, but a lack of government funding has stalled the mitigation project.
The SER Conservation District Manager Joe Parsons said the offshoot of the river near the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort golf course, has the potential to flood the entire south-east side of town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Boozer-Creek-1.mp3Pictured above: Screen shot from U.S. Army Corp of Engineers document from in 2016.
Flood waters could reach town once they rush past the abandoned railroad bridge over the North Platte at the golf course.
In 2011, the Army National Guard was deployed to Saratoga to combat extensive flooding along the North Platte River. Using sandbags, the troops stopped the water from overflowing. Afterwards, a series of high-water years caused the sandbags to fail and the banks along the headgates of Boozers Creek to erode. Parsons said the Conservation District plans to use natural barriers to protect the area.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Boozer-Creek-2.mp3The Conservation District’s long-term plan is to eliminate the threat by rerouting that stretch of the North Platte River. Parsons said straightening the river would mitigate flooding and still allow the creek to appear natural.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Boozer-Creek-3.mp3Moving a river is no small feat. Parsons estimates the project will cost around $1.2 million. He said he has unsuccessfully applied for FEMA grants in the past. The SER district manager said the government recently created another funding opportunity.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Boozer-Creek-4.mp3Using the planning grant, Parsons was able to secure government funding. He said the Conservation District has hired an engineering firm capable of completing the project and handling the red tape.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Boozer-Creek-5.mp3The FEMA grant would only cover $900,000 of the total cost to alter the flow of the creek. Parsons said the Conservation District needs to find the remaining $300,000.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Boozer-Creek-6.mp3Parsons said he is confident he will be able to raise the 25 percent grant match through private funding sources.
1 of 3 Screen shot from U.S. Army Corp of Engineers document from in 2016. A small, man-made tributary on the North Platte River south of Saratoga remains a danger to the town during high water. The tributary is known as Boozer Creek. The Saratoga-Encampment-Rawlins Conservation District has a plan to combat the threat the man-made channel poses, but a lack of government funding has stalled the mitigation project. Screen shot from U.S. Army Corp of Engineers document from in 2016. Screen shot from U.S. Army Corp of Engineers document from in 2016. The SER district manager said he should know by the end of 2023 if the federal funding has been approved. Parsons said the project could begin as soon as the late summer of next year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Boozer-Creek-7.mp3With the project over a year out at the earliest, flooding is still a concern this spring. Snowpack is above 130 percent above mean more winter to come. A rainy spring could compound run-off concerns. Parsons said another concern is the Mullen Burn scar, which could contribute a bigger flood risk downstream in Saratoga.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0202_Boozer-Creek-8.mp3Parsons said rivers move over time. His agency’s plan is to give mother nature a hand by helping the waterway move in a way that doesn’t put the town in danger.
February 1, 2023 |
County law enforcement and the Office of Emergency Management made good use of their donated drones in a recent search for a lost person.
As reported by Bigfoot 99, two weeks ago, emergency responders were alerted to a missing person. Neal Forbes, a 70-year-old Saratoga man, disappeared east of town, while driving his vehicle. County Emergency Management Coordinator Lenny Layman said he and Encampment Police Chief Kevin Shue were asked to bring their drones to aid in the search.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0201_County-Drones-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of a drone in the air.
After a government grant request fell through, H.F. Sinclair purchased and donated two high-tech, unmanned aerial vehicles — or UAVs — to the county. The year before, law enforcement chased a suspect wanted in a Denver shooting into Encampment where he eluded capture using the cover of night. The next day, the man led police on a high-speed chase around the county in a stolen pickup. The manhunt demonstrated the need for a surveillance system capable of spotting people in the dark.
Layman and Chief Shue received the pair of drones in August. Layman said the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office has used different UAVs in the past, but January 19th’s search was the initial test of the new equipment.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0201_County-Drones-2.mp3Layman said he didn’t fly the UAV himself during the search. Sheriff’s Deputy John Moore handled piloting duties because he has more experience flying drones. Layman said the remote-controlled vehicles were deployed from the rear of his Office of Emergency Management truck, allowing the searchers to remain warm while the drones explored the frigid night.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0201_County-Drones-3.mp3While the rescuers enjoyed the heat inside of Layman’s truck, the cold weather was draining the batteries of the drones. Layman said he and Chief Shue had spare power cells ready to swap out as the drones returned to base.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0201_County-Drones-4.mp3The drones were designed to handle the high winds and low temperatures of Wyoming. Layman said, even with the decreased battery life, he was impressed by how well they functioned.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0201_County-Drones-5.mp3Equipped with state-of-the-art infrared sensors, the drones can see heat signatures, even in complete darkness. The emergency manager said he was unfamiliar with how objects would look in infrared, but once they saw Neal Forbes’ vehicle on the monitor, there was no mistaking what it was.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0201_County-Drones-6.mp3Unfortunately, when searchers reached vehicle, they found the body of Mr. Forbes who had already died at the scene.
As a result of the experience, Layman said he is putting together a UAV flying course. If county agencies do not have a trained operator, Layman said he would volunteer his piloting skills.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0201_County-Drones-7.mp3Layman said the drones are a phenomenally helpful tool in the county’s search and rescue arsenal.
February 1, 2023 |
A few more details have emerged concerning Saturday’s deadly I-80 pile-up.
Snowfall, slick roads and limited visibility contributed to a 44-vehicle crash between the towns of Elk Mountain and Arlington the interstate corridor. Wyoming Highway Patrol Sergeant Jeremy Beck said two separate chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles occurred around the same time Saturday in the same area. One person was killed in the larger pile-up.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0201_I-80-Crash-Update.mp3Red Cross volunteers were at the Albany fairgrounds to help the stranded motorists.
The identity of the single fatality has not been released. Sgt. Beck was also unable to say how many people were injured in the collision. More information will be available later in the week.
February 1, 2023 |
In the legislature, a bill that is of interest to the wind energy counties of Wyoming made its first appearance in the Senate Tuesday. House Bill 3, which returns legal authority of assessing the valuation of wind farms to the state Department of Revenue, passed the lower chamber earlier this month.
It has been on General File in the Senate since January 19th. The bill was introduced yesterday and assigned to committee.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/0201_HB-3.mp3Pictured above: Wind turbines in Carbon County, Wyoming. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
A similar bill failed to pass the legislature last year, leaving the authority to assess wind energy facilities to county assessors. The majority of the wind energy counties in the state have lobbied to maintain that authority. Wind energy lobbyists have testified that they are more comfortable it the power to assess ad valorem taxes resides with the Wyoming Department of Revenue. The accuracy of state valuations has been one of the debating points throughout the discussion of the bill in House, both in committee and on the floor.
Dave Kinsky of Sheridan is the chairman of the Senate Committee 2, Appropriations.
January 31, 2023 |
Saratoga school bus drivers joined others from districts around the area to help transport victims to safety during Saturday’s massive pile-up on Interstate 80.
The 44-vehicle pile-up near Wagonhound forced the Wyoming Highway Patrol and the Wyoming Department of Transportation to shut down the highway in both directions between Laramie and Rawlins. WYDOT’s Andrea Staley said the situation required “all hands on deck.”
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-01-1.mp3Pictured above: Photo courtesy Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken/Facebook.
Saturday’s winter storm created extremely unsafe driving conditions along Interstate 80. The cold temperatures combined with high wind gusts resulted in an icy road surface with blowing snow drifts. Staley said the incident occurred along an especially dangerous stretch of the highway.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-02-1.mp3According to a Wyoming Highway Patrol press release, several people were injured in the incident with one confirmed fatality. Sgt. Beck told Bigfoot 99 Monday that no information was available.
Staley said WYDOT worked all day Monday to reopen the interstate.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-03-1.mp3With the sheer number of people involved in the pile-up, responders needed a way to transport the uninjured away from the scene. Carbon County School District #2 Superintendent Darrin Jennings said Carbon County Emergency Management Coordinator Lenny Layman asked if he could send school buses to the accident location.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-04-1.mp3Saturday afternoon, Saratoga’s head bus driver, Mack Miller, drove the Panther basketball team to a game in Encampment. Jennings and Layman approached Miller during the game about volunteering to ferry people from the accident scene. Miller said he and another driver, Trent Rimmer, agreed to drive a pair of buses to the scene and help with rescue efforts. They chained up the bus tires for the 100-mile round trip in bad weather.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-05-1.mp3Miller said the roads became increasingly treacherous as he and Rimmer approached the crash scene. Once there, Miller said, emergency responders used a snowcat-type vehicle to carry people to waiting Albany County school district buses. He described the scene as chaotic with trucks strewn everywhere following the chain reaction crash.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-06-1.mp3Miller said the two truck drivers on board his bus were cold, scared, and looking for a place out of the weather. Upon seeing the two Albany County buses preparing to leave, Miller said he called the county emergency manager and asked to have them take the drivers to Laramie.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-07-1.mp3After the truck drivers were moved to the Albany County school buses, Miller said he was asked to look for more stranded motorists. Miller said he found one person and the other Saratoga school bus driver took him to Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-08.mp3Carbon County Emergency Management Coordinator Lenny Layman told Bigfoot 99 two people were transported to Rawlins. Rimmer took one while the other hitched a ride with Carbon County sheriff’s deputies. Layman said 22 other people were taken to Laramie.
Saratoga’s head bus driver said he was at the accident scene for about six hours. Rimmer, the other Saratoga driver took an additional two hours to deliver his passenger to Rawlins. Miller said he is thankful for everyone’s hard work.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-09.mp3WYDOT spokesperson Andrea Staley said last year’s relatively mild winter may have made drivers complacent. She said people need to remain vigilant while driving during this time of year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-10.mp3The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
January 31, 2023 |
Winter weather and road closures forced the Medicine Bow marshal to perform a frontier-style birth.
On January 29th, Marshal Roger Hawks of Medicine Bow said he was manning the snow barrier on Route 30 when around 11 a.m., he received a call about a woman in labor. Marshal Hawks said it was 11:26 a.m. when he arrived at the house and the woman didn’t appear to ready to give birth.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0131_Frontier-Birth-1.mp3When he realized the woman wasn’t in immediate danger, Marshal Hawks said he went downstairs to speak to her husband. He said he felt like medical transport would reach the scene before the baby arrived. Things didn’t work out as planned.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0131_Frontier-Birth-2.mp3Marshal Hawks said it was only 10 minutes between the time he arrived at the house and the baby was delivered.
The healthy baby girl was born on January 29th, at 11:37 a.m. She was the third child for the couple. Marshal Hawks said he had never delivered a baby on his own before. Hanna’s marshal, Ted Kranenberg, who has delivered several babies in his time in law enforcement, said Hawks called him for advice.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0131_Frontier-Birth-3.mp3South Central Wyoming EMS out of Hanna took the woman and baby to Ivinson Memorial Hospital in Laramie where both are doing well. Marshal Hawks said he wanted to personally thank the two SCWEMS volunteers because he was not prepared for a medical emergency.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0131_Frontier-Birth-4.mp3Marshal Kranenberg said it isn’t unusual for law enforcement to perform deliveries, especially in places with harsh winter weather. He said, after so much tragedy on the region’s highways, the successful delivery of Medicine Bow’s newest resident is a feel-good story.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0131_Frontier-Birth-5.mp3After successfully delivering his first baby, Marshal Hawks said he has earned a new nickname: Doctor Hawks.
January 31, 2023 |
An attempt to push back against federal mandates on vaccines and masks related to COVID-19 ended yesterday the same way it did during the special session in 2021—in failure.
Debate over House Bill 66 was passionate at times.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0131_HB-66-Fails-1.mp3Representative Bill Allemand, one of the co-sponsors, was among lawmakers who argued that a price could not be put on liberty.
An amendment that would have set aside $847 million in rainy day funds on the chance the federal government withheld Medicare and other payments to health care facilities in retaliation for the bill passing served as a litmus test for the bill’s fate. Although not a poison pill amendment, the threat of losing federal dollars carried weight with most members.
Rep. Dan Zwonitzer of Cheyenne said Washington pays Wyoming hospitals $9 million a day in healthcare reimbursements. Zwonitzer said without those payments, many hospitals could not stay open for business.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0131_HB-66-Fails-2.mp3The bill’s sponsors viewed the amendment as hostile to their cause. Representative John Bear of Gillette compared Wyoming’s relationship to Washington to that of a battered housewife.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0131_HB-66-Fails-3.mp3The amendment passed 36 to 25. The vote on the bill itself to protect Wyoming citizens from being discriminated against over their vaccine status was much closer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0131_HB-66-Fails-4.mp3Carbon County’s two representatives split their vote with Burkart of House District 15 voting against HB 66 and Davis for it.
January 31, 2023 |
Governor Mark Gordon and two-dozen other Republican governors are pushing back against an effort by the Biden administration to extend federal control over waterways in the states. The governors in a joint letter called on President Joe Biden to delay implementing the Waters of The United States rule until the U.S. Supreme Court issues a ruling the Sackett v EPA.
In their letter, the governors say the WOTUS rule is burdensome, overbroad and could not come as a worse time. “The rule is problematic in and of itself,” the letter reads, “but its timing is particularly troubling given record inflation and gas prices that threaten the livelihoods of so many communities. Another burdensome and overbroad regulation from the federal government could not come at a worse time for America.”
The governors note that the 514-page WOTUS rule would give the EPA the power to regulate private ponds, ditches and other small water features, just as the Obama-era WOTUS rule did. That rule was repealed under the Trump Administration.
Control over waterways has been the frontline of legal battles between the states and the federal government for a nearly a decade. During the past three administrations, the EPA and the U.S. Corps of Engineers have issued multiple rulings defining WOTUS. The Obama Administration published the Clean Water Rules in June of 2015.
Under the Trump administration, EPA and the Corps repealed the Clean Water Rule. EPA and the Corps then issued the Navigable Waters Protection Rule in 2020.
The Supreme Court recently agreed to hear Sackett v EPA, a case that dates back to 2004. It involves private landowners, Michael and Chantell Sackett, who were notified by the EPA that they could not place fill on their residential property near Priest Lake, Idaho, because wetlands on the property fell under the Clean Water Act. At stake in the case is whether wetlands are “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act.
In their letter, the governors’ note the Supreme court ruling in the Sackett case could significantly alter the EPA’s regulatory authority.
Pictured above: File photo of the Upper North Platte River. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
January 30, 2023 |
Interstate 80 remained closed Monday morning following a massive crash involving over three dozen vehicles, most of them big rigs, near Wagonhound Saturday afternoon. The Rawlins to Laramie stretch of the transportation corridor has remained closed since then. The crash occurred during a winter storm that has continued to pound the region.
According to the Wyoming Highway Patrol, a total of 44 vehicles collided between the two separate crashes on Interstate 80. Multiple injuries were reported with the crashes and one confirmed fatality. Shortly after the initial call around 2 p.m. Saturday, a 10-79 dispatch code sent from the scene was a signal for the coroner to be notified.
The crashes occurred during a winter storm that left roads slick and icy. Visibility was poor. With snow pounding the scene and temperatures dropping, the patrol transported non-injured to the Albany County Fairgrounds in Laramie. Bigfoot 99 has learned that school buses and their drivers from Laramie, Rawlins and Saratoga participated in the the effort to carry truck drivers and others to safety in the storm.
Video shot by a Highway Patrol Trooper while driving up to the crash scene between mile markers 261 and 267 showed at least 15 heavy wreckers queued up and waiting to to move to the front of the line to assist in the clean-up.
The Albany County Sheriff’s Office issued an “all hands-on-deck call” Saturday as it dealt with the crash. In a Facebook post, the Albany County sheriff’s reported that “first responders from all agencies have been working diligently and tirelessly during this blast from mother nature. It is not safe out there folks and it’s probably best to stay indoors. Please send positive thoughts to all the first responders out there in the cold as this storm is supposed to progress throughout the weekend.”
Local law enforcement was busy with numerous crashes off the interstate through the weekend, as well.
The Highway Patrol reports that it is continuing to investigate the massive pileup at Wagonhound Road.
January 30, 2023 |
With the final phase of the extensive remodeling of the Carbon County Courthouse nearing completion, the countdown to when some departments will move in has begun. A move-in timeline is now official.
Carbon County clerk and project manager for the courthouse makeover, Gwynn Bartlett, said administrative services will be in place at the completed courthouse building by the end of February.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0130_Courthouse-Remodel-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Carbon County Courthouse. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
The district court requires state mandated recording devices be installed before relocating. Each courtroom takes a week to outfit with the technology That means juggling circuit and district court dockets.
County residents passed the Specific Purpose Sixth Penny Tax in 2019. The projects to be funded were listed on the ballot. The Carbon Building-Courthouse Annex and County Courthouse were included in the measure. Bartlett explained why the courthouse, which was built between 1938 and 1940 needed to be overhauled.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0130_Courthouse-Remodel-2.mp3Bringing thee 80-year-old building into the 21st century has required over three years of construction. The Carbon County clerk explained how the courthouse will become a modern hall of justice.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0130_Courthouse-Remodel-3.mp3While the courthouse was undergoing renovations, the county’s circuit and district courts were temporarily relocated into the Interim Justice Center on Murray Street. Originally scattered around the city, Bartlett explained how the majority of the county’s legal services will now be consolidated under one roof.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0130_Courthouse-Remodel-4.mp3With the Carbon County District Courthouse so out of date, improvements were necessary for the continued use of the historic building. Bartlett said she appreciated that county residents were able to see the need for the specific purpose tax.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0130_Courthouse-Remodel-5.mp3Chosen in September of 2019, FCI Constructors of Wyoming is on schedule. The renovations to the Carbon Building were finished last year and the courthouse is on target to meet the February completion date.
January 30, 2023 |
The UW Board of Trustees approved a new contract for university president Ed Seidel at its regular meeting on January 20, 2023.
Seidel became the University of Wyoming’s 28th president on July 1, 2020. His current contract was set to expire on June 30th of this year.
Board President John McKinley said in a statement said that the 12-member board, all appointed by the governor, look forward “to the university advancing in providing an excellent education for students while moving the state forward in key research areas for the benefit of Wyoming and the region.”
Seidel’s new contract includes a pay raise from a base salary of $365,000 annually to an annual base salary of $390,000 for the first year of the three-year package with an escalator to $403,000 for the third year. The annual housing allowance of $60,000 a year also will increase to $64,000 in the final year.
January 30, 2023 |
U.S. Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming on Friday praised the Republican House of Representatives for passing a bill aimed at restricting presidential releases of oil from the country’s emergency energy supply.
The Strategic Production Response Act is a direct response to President Joe Biden draining nation’s emergency stockpiles of oil to the lowest level in 40 years. The bill, which passed on a 221-205 vote would limit releases to national emergencies related to supply disruptions. It also requires the federal government to develop open up more federal lands to oil and gas production.
The legislation is unlikely to make its way past the Democratic-led Senate, and the Biden administration has also said that the president would veto the bill.
Sen. Barrasso said that the president’s raiding of the SPR to salvage his popularity ratings in the face of high gas prices “means our vulnerability to an energy emergency is at a 40-year high.”
Barrasso is the ranking member of the senate energy committee. Last week, he introduced a similar piece of legislation in the senate that links increases in domestic production with any more drawdowns from the SPR.
Barrasso also has sponsored legislation prohibiting the White House from selling any reserves from the SPR to China or other hostile countries, including Iran.
Since November 2021, President Joe Biden has ordered the sale of more than 250 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, sending levels to their lowest point in more than 40 years.
January 30, 2023 |
St. Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County is off to a strong start lending a helping hand to those in need, according to a just released executive director’s report.
St. Thomas Episcopal Church’s priest, Reverend Bobbe Fitzhugh said, despite only existing for five months, St. Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County has helped over 100 individuals and families.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0130_St-Christopher-1.mp3Pictured above: Photo of St. Christopher’s organization report, courtesy Mira Miller.
St. Christopher’s Highway has spent $7,377.12 on fuel, hotels, food, and bus tickets for stranded travelers. Reverend Fitzhugh said hotel stays are the most common form of assistance provided in 2022. She said the winter weather has increased the number of people in need of overnight accommodation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0130_St-Christopher-2.mp3The charity has spent $2,726 on hotels.
Pictured above: Photo of St. Christopher’s organization report, courtesy Mira Miller.Bus tickets are the second highest expenditure for St. Christopher’s Highway, costing $1,776. Reverend Fitzhugh said very few homeless services are offered along the I-80 corridor. She said she prefers to provide but tickets so people can get to areas with shelters, food banks, and mental health services.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0130_St-Christopher-3.mp3In 2022, St. Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County provided travelers with $818 worth of food, $1,353 in gas, and $702 for, what is described on the executive director’s report as, other. Moving into 2023, Reverend Fitzhugh said she is changing the way St. Christopher’s Highway operates. She said, instead of immediately handing out money, clients will be asked to help themselves as much as possible.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0130_St-Christopher-4.mp3Reverend Fitzhugh said the charity is has plenty of funding going into the new year because of generous donations from churches and individuals. She described other ways St. Christopher’s Highway obtained financing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0130_St-Christopher-5.mp3The number of people St. Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County has helped since its August inception shows a need for this type of service exists. Flush with donations, and a potentially more frugal set of edicts, St. Christopher’s Highway is set to aid far more needy travels in the coming year.
St. Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County Facebook Page
January 27, 2023 |
This week’s horrific crash claimed the lives of five young friends from Arkansas who had much to contribute to our world, and who enjoyed their final week together playing in praying in Wyoming. Their community is devastated, and still trying to digest the tragedy.
The Little Rock, Arkansas, suburb of Sherwood, located in Pulaski County, was their home. The students were killed on the evening of January 22nd, when a driver, allegedly high on meth, drove the wrong way on Interstate 80. A loaded semi-truck, attempting to avoid a head-on collision with the suspect’s vehicle, drove into oncoming traffic and directly into the Ford F-150 occupied by the five youths.
Suzy Prime and Ava Luplow were both seniors at Sylvan Hills High School. Salomon Correa, Magdalene “Maggie” Franco, and Andrea Prime were recent graduates. All five were returning home after visiting a Bible college in Jackson Hole.
Local news stations have interviewed the victims’ family and friends. KARK 4 reporter, Samantha Boyd said the community is leaning on their religious faith to deal with the unbearable grief. Lydia Vandervate was friends with the students. She said, while she will miss her friends, the tragedy has not shaken her faith in God.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Faith-1.mp3Ruth Peters, and her daughter-in-law, Betsy, own the Humble Crumb Bakery, in Sherwood. The bakers told KARK 4’s Samantha Boyd how Ava Luplow and Suzy Prime have worked at the shop since they were 15 and 16 years old. Maggie Franco was an employee in the past. Franco’s mother and sister still work at the bakery. Betsy and Ruth said the girls’ deaths act as a reminder to stay strong in their faith.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Faith-2.mp3Speaking to THV11’s Brooke Buckner, Betsy Peters said she attended the same bible study classes as Suzy and Ava. She said she is anxious about how their absence will affect the community.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Faith-3.mp3Ruth Peters echoed her daughter-in-law’s concerns. She said the town will not be the same. Ruth said she takes solace in her faith in the Lord.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Faith-4.mp3While the five students were at Jackson Hole Bible College they posted videos on social media showing the fun they were having. A compilation assembled from short videos showed the young people admiring the beautiful Wyoming scenery, playing in the snow, skiing, ice skating, playing volleyball, and eating.
Co-owner of the Humble Crumb, Betsy Peters, said both Ava Luplow and Suzy Prime had the same bible verse on their social media pages. She said the scripture, Romans 8:18, is especially poignant.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Faith-5.mp3According to an article from the Cowboy State Daily, the father of the two Prime sisters said he forgives the driver who caused his daughters’ deaths. The loss of the five young people will have a tremendous impact on the community of nearly 33,000 people.
January 27, 2023 |
Last Thursday’s Impact 307 Pitch Night saw four Carbon County start-up companies compete for seed money.
On January 19th, Impact 307, a company focused on helping Wyoming residents start and grow their business ideas, held a pitch night at the Parco Theater, in Sinclair.
Out of a field of nearly 30 applicants, four teams were chosen to attend the pitch night. Each team was given an opportunity to persuade a group of judges that their business plans were worth investing in. Impact 307’s assistant director, Monica Patton, said all four groups were awarded seed money, with one team taking home the audience choice award.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_307-Pitch-Night-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of the Parco Sinclair Theater. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Brewed Learning is a coffee education company founded by Cody and Christine Anderson. The Andersons own a coffee shop in Rawlins. Cody Anderson explained his plan to bring high-end coffee training to this area of the country.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_307-Pitch-Night-2.mp3Anderson said an unfulfilled need exists in the state of Wyoming for trained professionals to install and maintain specialty coffee equipment. He said his business would offer training and repair services.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_307-Pitch-Night-3.mp3Attendees of last week’s pitch night agreed with Anderson. The audience chose his pitch as their favorite. Anderson said receiving such positive feedback showed there is a desire for high quality java.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_307-Pitch-Night-4.mp3To get his business off the ground, Anderson said he would like to become a certified espresso maintenance and repair technician. He said he will use the seed money to take a series of courses offered by a world-renowned organization of coffee experts.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_307-Pitch-Night-5.mp3Armed with a Specialty Coffee Association certificate, Anderson said businesses would know the training provided by Brewed Learning was professional quality.
Three judges selected the business plans they thought had the best potential to succeed. Impact 307’s director, Derrek Jerred was one of the judges. Assistant director Patton described the two other judges.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_307-Pitch-Night-6.mp3While Brewed Learning won the audience choice award, all four participants received a portion of the seed funding. Dan Woolley will use the financial backing he received from the pitch night to create online tools for nonprofits, allowing them to streamline the giving process. His company is called Good Raising.
Jon and Heidi Suttee will use the seed capital to further their business, titled Encampment River Glamping. The Suttees will set up a series of luxury camping sites along the Encampment River Trail.
John Ryan’s The Wandering Chef will offer culinary training and event catering with the backing of Impact 307.
The judges set a series of milestones, unique to each business, they must meet before the seed money is distributed. Brewed Learning’s Cody Anderson said he hasn’t been informed of what those stipulations are yet.
All finalists received one-on-one business mentoring through Impact 307 and the Wyoming Small Business Development Center. Seed funding was provided by the Wyoming Innovation Partnership and the Business Innovation Hub of Carbon County.
Watch the presentations from the pitch night here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YPCqh6we9g
January 27, 2023 |
At the legislature Thursday, two separate bills moved forward on narrow votes.
In the House, a bill banning discrimination by private or public business of individuals because of their Covid vaccine status or refusal to wear a mask passed on a 39-21 vote.
The floor debate lasted over an hour and was intense at times as lawmakers struggled over the balance of rights between businesses and individuals.
Representative Jeremy Haroldson of Platte County said he knew a person who died from the cure, not the disease it was touted to prevent by the business that required it.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Vax-BIll-1.mp3Representative Sarah Penn, a nurse practitioner at a large medical clinic in Fremont County, characterized the response to the Covid scare in Wyoming as an overreaction that was driven by media reports.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Vax-BIll-2.mp3Penn is a member of the Health Committee that approved HB 66 with a do-pass recommendation last week. Yesterday, the lawmaker described how patient visitations at her facility in Riverton dropped to minimal levels because people were afraid to seek treatments or were turned away when they sought care.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Vax-BIll-3.mp3Missing from the debate were any arguments about the efficacy of either vaccines or masks as protecting against Covid-19. The loss of dollars if the bill becomes law was the biggest concern. The chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Bob Nicholas, opposed the bill not on the science, but because of the possible loss of federal dollars to the state.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Vax-BIll-4.mp3Representative John Bear of Gillette shrugged off the threat of any financial dollars to state. Bear said other states and cities snub the federal government every day without consequences.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Vax-BIll-5.mp3Although the bill passed the committee of the whole Thursday, a critical question will dog it the rest of the way through the legislative process. HB 66 has no real enforcement mechanism. The Health Committee removed the criminal penalty before approving it last Friday. Although a civil penalty has been added, critics of the bill in its current form mock it by saying the only class of people in Wyoming who will benefit are attorneys who would argue court cases over alleged discrimination.
In the Senate, a bill sponsored by Sen. Larry Hicks of Baggs that would send over $5 million in “rainy day” fund money to border states to help stem the flow of illegals was approved on 3-2 vote. Sen. Hicks said Wyoming law enforcement is mopping up the problems associated with the flow of illegals largely through drug busts involving deadly fentanyl. Click here to continue reading about the bill.
January 27, 2023 |
In the Senate, a bill sponsored by Sen. Larry Hicks of Baggs that would send over $5 million in “rainy day” fund money to border states to help stem the flow of illegals was approved on 3-2 vote. Sen. Hicks said Wyoming law enforcement is mopping up the problems associated with the flow of illegals largely through drug busts involving deadly fentanyl.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Border-Bill-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of U.S.-Mexican border.
Senate File 166 would set aside $2.6 million in each of the next two fiscal years to assist Arizona, Florida and Texas with their existing with border wall programs or the transportation of illegals to sanctuary cities. Senator Hicks said Wyoming needs to send help to the source of the problem.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0127_Border-Bill-2.mp3Betsy Anderson, Governor Mark Gordon’s deputy chief of staff and general counsel, spoke in favor of the bill. The governor has demonstrated his support for border states in the past, even threatening to send National Guard troops to Texas.
January 26, 2023 |
A reckless, intoxicated driver from Utah high on drugs faces 11 separate charges, including five of aggravated homicide with a vehicle, stemming from Sunday night’s multi-vehicle crash on I-80 that killed a group of friends from Arkansas who were headed home after spending a week at a bible college in Jackson Hole.
Carbon County Prosecutor Sarah Chavez Harkins filed the criminal charges in Circuit Court on Wednesday. The male defendant, 58-year-old Arthur Andrew Nelson of West Jordan, Utah, made his first appearance in court via a video conference.
The suspect faces more than 100 years in prison.
Pictured above: 58-year-old Arthur Andrew Nelson of West Jordan, Utah. Mugshot courtesy Carbon County Sheriff’s Office.
Nelson is charged five counts of aggravated homicide by vehicle, one for each of the five young people killed when Nelson, who was driving eastbound in the westbound lanes of Interstate 80, triggered a fiery crash at mile marker 219 at Sinclair around 7 p.m. Sunday.
Each aggravated homicide count for the deaths of the young people, mostly teenagers from Little Rock, carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $10,000.
According to the court documents, Nelson was driving under the influence of a controlled substance at the time of a crash that caused serious bodily injury. The criminal count carries a fine up to $10,000 and up to 10 years of imprisonment.
Nelson also faces lesser charges of reckless driving and two for reckless endangerment—one each for the Fed Ex truck and passenger car Nelson is accused of hitting while traveling in the wrong lanes of the interstate.
Nelson also faces a charge of driving with a suspended license.
According to court documents, Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper Corey McCallister arrived at the crash scene where he observed a red Ford F-150 on fire and semi-truck beginning to catch fire in the eastbound lanes of the interstate.
Trooper McCallister said a badly damaged black Dodge pickup truck was on the westbound side of the highway. McCallister stated the Dodge appeared to have rolled over. The trooper also stated that he saw an Infiniti passenger car with three injured people inside of it.
In his statement, the Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper said, after seeing the occupants of the Infiniti – who Bigfoot 99 has learned are Rawlins residents – had not suffered life-threatening injuries, he approached the Dodge truck to attend to the driver. No one was in the vehicle. Another WHP trooper, Jay Scheel, said he had the driver of Dodge with him. The driver, identified later as Nelson, appeared to be under the influence of something. According to the trooper, Nelson said vehicles were driving the wrong way, head-on toward him. Evidence at the scene indicated to Trooper McCallister that Nelson was the one driving the wrong way.
McCallister said medical responders at the scene told him that driver of the semi-truck that had veered across the median to avoid the original crash was trapped inside the cab. The truck was on fire.
The trooper said the driver of the commercial rig, identified only as a 43-year-old Mississippi woman with the initials A.C., had suffered severe burns to her face and head. McCallister used his extinguisher to give fire fighters time to extricate the driver and transport her to the hospital.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper, in his court statement, said that A.C. suffered third degree burns to her face, neck, back, torso, and posterior. The truck driver was life flighted from Memorial Hospital of Carbon County to the burn center at Greeley, Colorado where she is in stable condition.
All five of the occupants of the red Ford F-150 suffered fatal injuries. Trooper McCallister said one occupant was ejected from the vehicle, while the other four remained inside the burning pickup. Firefighters attempted to put out the flames.
In his written statement, Trooper McCallister said he returned to Nelson and questioned him on why he was traveling the wrong way on the highway. Nelson appeared confused and could not maintain his balance. McCallister said Nelson had no visible injuries from the collision.
Following a series of failed field sobriety tests, Nelson was arrested for driving under the influence. He was transported to the Carbon County Jail. On Wednesday, January 25th, Nelson appeared, remotely, in court and was held on $500,000 cash-only bond. The suspect is considered a flight risk.
The three occupants of Infiniti, all locals, were treated for minor injuries and released.
The fatal crash victims from Arkansas in the F-150 are listed as Sylvan High School seniors Suzy Prime and Ava Luplow. Sylvan graduate, Salomon Correa, Magdalene “Maggie” Franco and Andrea Prime were also killed in the crash. Suzy, 18, and Andrea Prime, 23, were sisters.
The Sherwood community of Little Rock, Arkansas, has been hit hard by the loss and tragedy. Family and friends of the victims are leaning on their Christian faith and their congregations. According to the Little Rock Fox news affiliate KLRT, the two 18-year-old students, Ava Luplow and Suzy Prime both had the same bible verse posted on their social media pages on the day of the crash.
The scripture the two friends who died at the scene shared, Romans 8:18, reads: “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
January 26, 2023 |
The Saratoga man found dead near his vehicle after it became stuck in the snow on rural road east of town last Thursday has been identified.
Sheriff Alex Bakken confirmed that the body of 70-year-old Neal Lee Forbes was located by emergency responders on the evening of Thursday, January 19th.
Forbes, a long-time Saratoga resident, was stranded several miles east of town when his vehicle because stuck in a snowbank on Stock Drive Way near the elk refuge. A cause of death has not officially been released; however, Sheriff Bakken was able to confirm that Forbes was found deceased about 50 yards from his vehicle.
Forbes’ pet dog was with him at the time of his death. Encampment Police Chief Kevin Shue said searchers were able to spot the animal, but were not able to catch it. Chief Chief Shue said the dog eventually found its way to a person’s house and was returned to Forbes’ widow, Pat.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0126_Missing-Man-Identified.mp3An obituary released by the family said Forbes is survived by his wife Pat, son Scott, daughter LeeAnn, and sister Judy Dixon. Services for Neal Forbes will be held at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Saratoga this Friday, January 27th. The family thanked the rescue team for their efforts.
January 26, 2023 |
The North Platte Valley Medical Center announced Wednesday that a physician assistant with a background in women’s health will begin providing care at the Platte Valley Clinic in early February.
A P.A. for 18 years, Jolena Martin brings with her a wide range of clinical experience in primary care, family practice, obstetrics/gynecology, and urgent care. Martin completed her studies at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and spent six years gaining OB/GYN experience at two medical facilities in Illinois. Martin has spent two years working as a PA at Dr. Carol A. Fischer Family Practice in Cheyenne.
Martin will begin seeing patients in Saratoga at the Platte Valley Clinic on February 6.
Pictured above: Jolena Martin, PA-C. Photo courtesy North Platte Valley Medical Center.
January 26, 2023 |
At the legislature, a bill sponsored by Senator Larry Hicks to limit spending from the “rainy day account” failed to clear the appropriations committee Wednesday.
SJ 8—a joint resolution—would have amended the Wyoming Constitution to limit appropriations and transfers from legislative stabilization reserve account to 25 percent of the balance in any one fiscal biennium unless 3/4 vote of all members of each of the two houses of the legislature agreed to the expenditures.
The LSRA, more commonly known as the “rainy day fund,” was created in 2005 and codified in statute in 2015. The account has been used for various appropriations, including backfilling lost funding for schools during the energy downturn. The LSRA has grown to a current balance of $2 billion.
Senator Hick’s bill to safeguard the balance failed on a 2-3 vote in the Senate Appropriations Committee. The digest reports that Senators Kinskey and Salazar were the two “aye” votes. Anderson, Gierau and Nethercott were the “no” votes.
Also, in the Senate yesterday, a bill that prohibits chemical abortions cleared the first two hurdles.
Senate File 109 is unchanged from a similar bill that failed in the House last year. The Senate Labor, Health and Social Services Committee voted 4-1 Thursday to move the bill forward with a do-pass recommendation.
Senator Tim Salazar of Riverton, the bill’s sponsor, said the four-page bill is the same as last year’s without a single change.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0126_Abortion-Pill-Bill-1.mp3The bill prohibits the use of mifepristone and misoprostol, the two most common medications used in drug-induced abortions, as well other similar drugs.
The bill does not apply to common contraceptives.
Any violation of the ban on abortion pills by a doctor or other is classified as a misdemeanor with a fine not to exceed $9,000 and imprisonment not to exceed six months.
The committee took testimony for over 90 minutes from Wyomingites on both sides of the issues. Each person was allowed two minutes since over 50 people were queued up, many online, to have their voices heard.
Committee Chairman Fred Baldwin of Kemmerer began the hearing by urging respect for the views of others.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0126_Abortion-Pill-Bill-2.mp3Chairman Baldwin was the lone “no” vote on the committee. SF 109 was sent to the Senate Floor where it was placed on General File.
January 25, 2023 |
At the Rawlins City Council meeting last week, a well-known couple were recognized for their many contributions to the area. Copper and Tara France were presented with the city’s Community Builders Award for January. Jason Sehon, chair of the volunteer committee that selects the recipients, explained why the France’s were selected.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_Community-Builder-2.mp3Ribbons of Hope helps residents in every community in the county who are in the process of battling cancer. The organization provides financial assistance that can be used to help with the cost of travel, lodging, meals and other expenses associated with cancer treatments. Last year, Ribbons of Hope raised $44,000 through various fundraising efforts.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_Community-Builder-2.mp3The Frances donated the $100 check that comes with the award to Ribbons of Hope. In accepting the award, Copper France praised the “silent disciples” in Rawlins who do positive things that don’t get noticed, but which make the city a better place for all.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_Community-Builder-3.mp3The Community Builder Award is presented monthly to local businesses, individuals or organizations for their volunteer service, sponsorship, promotion of programs and events and for other contributions significant to the quality of life in Rawlins.
Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
January 25, 2023 |
A fatal crash on Interstate 80 has claimed the lives of five people.
Just before 7 p.m., on January 22nd, Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers received calls of a driver going the wrong way on I-80. WHP’s head of public relations, Sergeant Jeremy Beck described the incident.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-01.mp3Pictured above: Image courtesy of WHP.
Available information indicates the wrong-way driver was behind the wheel of a Dodge Ram 3500. Sergeant Beck said the Dodge hit two other vehicles and caused a tractor trailer to veer into oncoming traffic.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-02.mp3According to KATV out of Little Rock, Arkansas, the five occupants of the Ford F-150 were young people heading home to Arkansas after visiting a bible college in Jackson Hole. Two of the victims were students of the Pulaski County Special School District, with the other three being former students. WHP trooper, Sergeant Beck was unable to officially confirm that information, but said it appeared correct.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-03.mp3Cowboy State Daily lists the victims as Sylvan High School seniors, Suzy Prime and Ava Luplow. Former Sylvan students, Salomon Correa, Magdalene “Maggie” Franco, and Andrea Prime were also killed in the crash. Suzy, 18, and Andrea Prime, 23, were sisters.
The wrong-way driver was arrested on suspicion of driving while impaired. Sergeant Beck said more charges are likely.
The condition of the driver of the semi-truck that hit the Ford F-150 is unknown at this time. Sergeant Beck was able to confirm the driver did suffer life-threatening injuries.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-04.mp3Six minutes elapsed between the time Wyoming Highway Patrol were first informed about the wrong-way driver and the crash. Sergeant Beck said it is unclear how long the driver of the Dodge Ram was traveling the wrong way before the deadly collision.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-05.mp3As of the reporting of this story, the victims mark the 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th Wyoming highway deaths of 2023. The death toll for January is equal to the number fatalities as the previous three years combined, by this time. Sergeant Beck said this incident is a reminder to drive carefully.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-06.mp3When asked why this year has been particularly deadly, Sergeant Beck said he couldn’t pinpoint one specific cause. He said this type of tragedy is especially dangerous and difficult to predict.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Crash-07.mp3Cowboy State Daily is reporting the Dodge driver’s name as Arthur A. Nelson, a 57-year-old man from Limestone, Tennessee. Carbon County Circuit Court Deputy Clerk Annette Green said she is waiting for charging documents to be filed against the suspect.
January 25, 2023 |
As the White House and Congress square off over how the Biden administration has been draining the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve, Wyoming Senator John Barrasso has introduced a bill that would prevent the sale of any of the supplies from the SPR to China.
Two pieces of legislation are in play on the House side that push back against the unprecedented releases from the critical energy backstop. House Bill 21 would link releases from the SPR to increases in domestic oil production. The bill restricts the president, except during an emergency, from tapping the SRP unless it simultaneously released a plan to increase U.S. oil production.
President Biden said he will veto the bill.
Since taking office, the president has released 190 million barrels of oil from the reserves stored in salt caverns and tanks off the coasts of Texas and Louisiana. The SPR reached its lowest levels since 1983 last month.
Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm this week characterized any attempt by Congress to restrict the releases as “extreme.”
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0125_SPR-1.mp3Biden first ordered the Department of Energy to tap into the SPR in November 2021, saying it was a “major effort to moderate the price of oil” and lower prices at the average “corner gas station.” After Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Biden announced a 30-million-barrel release and another 180-million-barrel release in March 2022.
Senator Barrasso, in an op-ed in the National Review this week, said the SPR was established to ease the effects of unexpected supply disruptions, not to “bail out an administration’s failed energy policies.”
Yesterday, Barrasso introduced the Secure Auction for Energy Reserves Act. In a statement, the ranking member of the Senate Energy Committee said “adversaries cannot be allowed to benefit from America’s security reserve.”
The bill would ban SPR sales to China, as well as to state-owned companies which purchase oil from Russia, Iran and other nations which the U.S. has sanctioned. The House passed a similar bill earlier this month on a vote of 331 to 97.
Sales of SPR releases under Biden were tracked back to China last year.
January 25, 2023 |
Saturday, April 29th will be the first annual Memorial Hospital of Carbon County Care Fair.
Before the onset of COVID-19, MHCC would host yearly events called health fairs at the Rawlins Rec Center. After the pandemic made people uneasy of large gatherings, the hospital turned its focus toward blood drives. The Memorial Hospital of Carbon County’s Marketing, Communications and Foundation Director Stephanie Hinkle said the health fair was important to the community. Calls for the return of the event have resulted in MHCC creating this spring’s Care Fair.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0125_MHCC-Care-Fair-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins Recreation Center. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Megan Cragun is the Carbon County Public Health’s communicable disease coordinator. She said MHCC’s care fair was inspired by a similar event in Casper. Cragun said it seemed like the right time to bring back the medical-themed community affair.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0125_MHCC-Care-Fair-2.mp3Hinkle said the care fair isn’t entirely focused on medicine. She said a broad selection of providers have been invited to discuss all aspects of care.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0125_MHCC-Care-Fair-3.mp3The MHCC communications director said the old health fair would often draw crowds of over 1,500 people. She said April’s event has already generated a lot of interest.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0125_MHCC-Care-Fair-4.mp3The vendor admission price is $10 a booth. Hinkle directed anyone interested in being part of the care fair to visit the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County’s Facebook page.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0125_Fatal-Crash-5.mp3Hinkle said three levels of sponsorship are available. At the $75 “Helping Hands” level, sponsors will have their names mentioned in all social media posts and on an event directory. The $150 Resource Advocate” level also includes a company’s logo on all social media posts. Gift bags with the same information will be handed out to care fair visitors.
The MHCC communications director described what the highest level of sponsorship entails.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0125_MHCC-Care-Fair-6.mp3The deadline to be a vendor at the care fair is March 1st. Hinkle said April 29th’s event is not only open to local vendors, but also care providers from outside of Carbon County. She said Wyoming residents are, typically, more willing to travel for specialized care.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0125_MHCC-Care-Fair-7.mp3Memorial Hospital of Carbon County’s first annual Care Fair is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 29th. The event will be held at the Rawlins Family Recreation Center at 1616 Harshman Street. Attendance is free of charge.
January 24, 2023 |
The Wyoming Highway Patrol is investigating a fiery crash that occurred near Sinclair Sunday night on Interstate 80 that left five people dead.
The deadly incident was triggered by a wrong-way driver, according to the initial report from the WHP. The multi-vehicle crash occurred shortly before 7 p.m. Sunday, six minutes after the Highway Patrol was notified of a driver traveling the wrong way on the interstate.
A statement released by the Highway Patrol Monday evening reports that a Dodge Ram 3500 was headed east in the westbound lanes of the I-80. The Dodge collided with a commercial truck and a passenger car around mile marker 219. A westbound driver of a second commercial truck attempted to avoid the approaching Dodge by driving into the median. The second commercial truck exited the median and entered the eastbound travel lanes, where it collided head-on with a Ford F-150. The second commercial truck and passenger became engulfed in flames upon impact.
The five occupants of the Ford were fatally injured. Some of the other motorists involved in the initial collision were transported to hospitals with critical injuries.
The driver of the Dodge, who was driving the wrong way, has been arrested on suspicion of impairment and may be charged with additional violations.
The WHP did not release any names in its initial report. This is an ongoing investigation.
January 24, 2023 |
In the Platte Valley, a missing person’s report led local law enforcement on a search which resulted in finding a deceased male victim.
On Thursday, January 19th, at approximately 9:30 p.m., Sheriff Alex Bakken said his department received a call about a missing person from Saratoga. Sheriff Bakken said searchers outfitted with aerial surveillance equipment spotted the missing person’s car. The male victim, whose name has not been release was found a short distance from their stranded vehicle.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_MIssing-Person-Found-Dead.mp3Sheriff Bakken the search took about four hours to complete from the time they received the missing person report. The vehicle was discovered around 50 yards off the road, on Stock Drive Way in a rugged area outside Encampment.
The vehicle was discovered stuck in the snow half on the road and half in a ditch. Encampment police chief, Kevin Shue, said members of the Carbon County Office of Emergency Management and Sheriff’s Department, as well as Saratoga and Encampment PD joined in on the search.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_MIssing-Person-Found-Dead-2.mp3Both the Carbon County Office of Emergency Management and the Encampment police department have drones equipped with thermal vision. Chief Shue explained how the high-tech equipment, and knowledge of the area, helped in the search.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_MIssing-Person-Found-Dead-3.mp3Once the investigation is concluded, Sheriff Bakken said more information will be released. Bigfoot 99 discovered the name of the victim through our own resources. Out of respect for the victim’s family, the name of the deceased is being withheld until the official report from the Sheriff’s office.
January 24, 2023 |
A Saratoga man accused of intentionally taking a big game animal out of season in September was found guilty Friday in District Court of a lesser charge.
After meeting with county prosecutors several times, Tom Arthur plead guilty to a low misdemeanor crime. Carbon County Circuit Court deputy clerk, Annette Green, described Arthur’s sentence.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_Tom-Arthur-Guilty.mp3Pictured above: File photo of a mule deer.
The court ordered Arthur to pay a fine of $5,000 plus $4,000 in restitution for taking a trophy game animal. He was placed on one year of unsupervised probation. A 30-day jail term was suspended.
Arthur is the owner of the Upper Cedar Creek Ranch, east of Saratoga. According to the citation issued on September 10th by game warden Levi Wood, the violation occurred on the northern edge of Arthur’s property.
Arthur’s original charge of intentionally killing an antlered game animal out of season comes with a minimum five-year loss of hunting privileges and fines of up to $10,000.
Judge Susan Stipe also revoked Mr. Arthur’s hunting privileges through 2026. The revocation is valid in all 48 states that belong to the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact. The judge stipulated that the revocation only applies to hunting licenses, not fishing.
Another person charged as an accessory after the fact in the same case, an employee at the ranch, is scheduled for a change of plea hearing on February 8th. Like Arthur, Joe Johnston will change his original not guilty plea to guilty.
January 24, 2023 |
The Town of Encampment has updated its tobacco sales ordinance to be in line with state law.
During the November 10th meeting of the Encampment Town Council, Town Clerk Doreen Harvey said changes to state and federal legislation necessitated a review of their tobacco regulations. Harvey said the council needed to update town ordinance 5.08, titled Tobacco Sales.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_Encampment-Smoking-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Encampment Town Hall. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
In December of 2019, the federal government increased the minimum age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21. On March 13th of 2020, Wyoming governor Mark Gordon signed bill SF0050 into law. The “nicotine products-lawful age and penalties” bill went into effect on July 1st of the same year.
Harvey said Encampment police chief, Kevin Shue, brought the outdated ordinances to her attention. The Encampment clerk explained why it took so long for the town to update their rules.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_Encampment-Smoking-2.mp3According to copies of the ordinance obtained by Bigfoot 99, most of the changes are focused on increasing the age restriction on tobacco sales to meet the federal minimum. The town has also increased the first-time penalty for a business selling tobacco products to an underage person from $50 to $100. Subsequent violations remain the same.
January 24, 2023 |
The Town of Saratoga signed service agreements with two local engineering firms.
During January 17th’s town council meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis agreed to retain the services of Engineering Associates and North Fork Engineering. Called a master service agreement, the documents signed by the town lay out the terms and conditions of doing business with the engineering consultants. Former impact joint powers board member, and project manager for Engineering Associates, Craig Kopasz, explained the purpose of the agreement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_Service-Agreement-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Saratoga Town Hall/Police Department. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked Kopasz to clarify the reason for the master service agreement. The Engineering Associates project manager said the town isn’t beholden to his company. The agreement is simply to retain his firm’s services.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_Service-Agreement-2.mp3The council agreed to sign a master service agreement with Engineering Associates.
Next up was former councilman, Jon Nelson. He is a project engineer for North Fork Engineering. He is also requesting the town sign a master service agreement. Nelson said his company’s contract is similar to what Kopasz presented.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_Service-Agreement-3.mp3Nelson said the town had an agreement with North Fork which expired in 2017, while he was on the town council. He said renewing the contract while he was a sitting councilmember would have been a conflict of interest. Nelson said the new contract would be the same as the previous one. It would not lock the town into a relationship with his firm.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_Service-Agreement-4.mp3Mayor Davis asked for a vote to sign a master service agreement with North Fork Engineering. The motion was made, seconded, and passed.
After the vote, Nelson reminded the council about the type of agreement they have with Lewis and Lewis, the contractor that is behind schedule on the Spring Avenue waterline replacement and street repaving project.
The company, Lewis and Lewis, is incurring financial penalties for each day the work is unfinished, according to the terms of the contract. Nelson told the council his company prefers using similar types of arrangements for their projects.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_Service-Agreement-5.mp3Nelson said the council has master service agreements with many different consulting firms. He mentioned the engineers of the Spring Ave waterline replacement project and the Never Forget Park.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0124_Service-Agreement-6.mp3The town is not obligated to use either Engineering Associates or North Fork Engineering for any projects. The master service agreements signed on January 17th were to speed up the process should the council choose to retain their services in the future. The Saratoga town council will select the company that best suits the requirements any specific job.
January 23, 2023 |
In Saratoga, Valley Village Childcare faces more hurdles before it can move into the Corbett Medical Building as planned.
During Tuesday’s Saratoga Town Council meeting, Valley Village Childcare Vice-Chairperson Ellie Dana updated the council on the plan to move the daycare into the clinic building.
The Platte Valley Clinic occupies the Corbett Medical Building now. When the new hospital in Saratoga opens in a month or two, the clinic will move into the newly constructed facility. Once the Corbett Medical Building becomes vacant, Valley Village and ExCel Preschool have plans to take over. Bringing the building into compliance with government regulations on childcare requires extensive repairs and upgrades.
In 1994, the Corbett Medical Foundation donated the clinic building to the town of Saratoga. As the landlord, the town has deferred maintenance on the building for years. Dana has estimated a cost of nearly $500,000 to bring the building up to state and federal specs.
With the blessing of the Corbett Medical Foundation, the town has agreed to sell the building to Valley Village Childcare for $1, making the daycare financially responsible for the needed remodeling.
As part of the process, Dana obtained an appraisal. The cost was split with the town. The assessor errored by including a plot of land in the valuation that is not part of the deal. Dana told the council another appraisal will be needed because of the mistake and that she will pay for it.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_Valley-VIllage-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of the Ray A. Corbett Medical Building. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
A new appraisal means allowing another three weeks for the public to comment on the sale. But that’s not the last step. Even after the new appraisal is accepted, Valley Village Childcare would have no legal access to the clinic parking lot. Dana said an easement from the town is required. In 1997, John Johnson, owner of the ANCO building, which houses the Valley Pharmacy, was granted a “perpetual non-exclusive easement for ingress, egress, and parking of motor vehicles” across a tract of town owned land. Dana said she would like the same agreement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_Valley-VIllage-2.mp3Councilman Jerry Fluty said he was concerned that since the parking lot is shared by several businesses one of them could attempt to take ownership over a portion of the lot. He said he didn’t want one business, using an easement, to forbid access to other customers by claiming a section of the parking lot as their own. Dana said the agreement wouldn’t allow that.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_Valley-VIllage-3.mp3Referring to the appraisal, Mayor Chuck Davis laid the fault squarely at the feet of the assessor. He said the deed was written correctly. Mayor Davis said former town attorney, Jane France, said altering the deed would be more difficult than completing another appraisal.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_Valley-VIllage-4.mp3A public hearing will be held on February 21st, at 5:30 p.m., to discuss the easement. When the new appraisal is completed, it will be advertised. Afterwards, a new series of public comment meetings will be held.
January 23, 2023 |
A bill that would prevent employers and others from discriminating against anyone over their Covid-19 vaccine status narrowly passed the House Labor, Health, and Social Services Committee.
House Bill 66 passed on a 5-4 vote Friday with a do-pass recommendation. The legislation criminalizes Covid-era rules that required vaccinations, face coverings or testing to keep a job or, in some cases, enter a business as a customer.
If it becomes law, a business could request compliance but not require it.
Friday’s vote on the bill came after two days of debate. Professional groups, like the Wyoming Hospital Association and the Wyoming Bankers Association oppose the bill. Opponents based their objections more on the risk of losing federal dollars than on the medical efficacy of either vaccines or masks when it comes to Covid.
The committee also heard from a number citizens, some of whom are vaccinated, but who oppose any forced mandates that supersede an individual’s choice.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_HB66-Passes-1.mp3Caroline Paseneaux, a past chair of the House Labor, Health, and Human Services Committee and now the Executive Director of the Wyoming Health Care Association, gave the committee a reality check. Paseneaux provided a history on how the federal government has strongarmed the state in the past with the threat of holding federal dollars. The former lawmaker, who began her presentation by saying that she is unvaccinated, recalled the third term of Wyoming Governor Ed Herschler, which began in 1982.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_HB66-Passes-2.mp3Passeneaux was asked about her position on the bill. Her response was based in law—not in ideology or medicine—and likely was not what the bringers of the bill wanted to hear.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_HB66-Passes-3.mp3Passeneaux added that the debate is important and that the Wyoming Legislature should work with other states to develop a legal bulwark against Washington over the mandates.
Representative Sarah Penn of Fremont County, one of the co-sponsors of HB66, said the legislation represents the states revolting against tyrannical mandates that have no basis in science or even good health care.
Another co-sponsor, Rep. Ben Hornock of Laramie County, said he was impressed with how the bill is supported at the grassroots level by ordinary citizens, many of whom testified about losing their jobs or being denied service because of their refusal to comply.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_HB66-Passes-4.mp3The bill criminalizes discrimination over vaccine-status and mask-wearing by making each violation a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $5,000 or by imprisonment not to exceed one year.
The 5-4 vote sends HUB to the Floor where the bill’s sponsor, Rep. Jeanette Ward of Casper, will lead the debate.
January 23, 2023 |
South Central Wyoming Emergency Medical Services and the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County honor the memory of their fallen colleague.
On December 21st, two MHCC EMTs were responding to a crash on I-80 when they were struck by a semi-truck. Tiffany Gruetzmacher suffered major injuries and was transported to Cheyenne Regional Medical Center. She was released on December 26th and given a hero’s welcome in her hometown of Rawlins.
Tyeler Harris was tragically killed in the incident. His funeral was on January 15th. SCWEMS Director Stayton Mosbey said people across the region are celebrating Harris’ contributions to the community.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_SCWEMS-01.mp3Pictured above: SCWEMS ambulances. Photo by Matthew Copeland/Bigfoot 99.
The Memorial Hospital of Carbon County has set up a scholarship in Harris’s name. MHCC Marketing, Communication and Foundation Director Stephanie Hinkle said the hospital will provide financial assistance for people receiving EMT training.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_SCWEMS-02.mp3The two $500 scholarships will be used to help pay for emergency medical technician classes. Hinkle said applicants can attend an EMT class anywhere in the county. The hospital’s communications director explained the other criteria necessary to apply for the Tyeler Harris Memorial Scholarship.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_SCWEMS-03.mp3If enough people show interest in the program, Hinkle said the hospital would be likely to expand the scholarship’s availability. Hinkle explained where to go to apply for the scholarship. She also mentioned another funding opportunity for young people of Carbon County who are interested in the medical field.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_SCWEMS-04.mp3SCWEMS is offering fully paid medical training classes as well. Using a Department of Health ARPA grant, two Saratoga ambulance drivers have been chosen to attend online EMT classes.
The SCWEMS director said he is hoping for another grant opportunity, which would allow him to expand the reach of the program, but he didn’t want to delay the classes any longer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_SCWEMS-05.mp3SCWEMS has also received a grant to build a station in Hanna. Right now, the ambulance service shares space inside of the town’s fire department. Mosbey said he is looking for a place to build the new ambulance barn.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_SCWEMS-06.mp3Mosbey said the most likely place to build the new station is on the grounds of the old Hanna Elementary School. With the mines under the area already filled in, Mosbey said it would make a great location for the ambulance barn. The SCWEMS director said his team needs their own space. Mosbey described how the fire station isn’t suitable for his team’s needs.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_SCWEMS-07.mp3Mosbey has requested authorization from the county to purchase a new ambulance. He said the current fleet is beginning to show its age, with one of the vehicles being two decades old and having over 180,000 miles on it. The SCWEMS director said it is less expensive to replace an aging vehicle than to pay for constant repairs. Mosbey explained how, using a government grant, he ordered a new rescue vehicle.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0123_SCWEMS-08.mp3As reported by Bigfoot 99, SCWEMS board members were asking every town council in the county to authorize the purchase of smaller SUV-based, quick response vehicles. The QRVs would replace full-size ambulances in towns without trained paramedic coverage. An Emergency Medical Responder, or EMR, would use the SUVs to respond to medical emergencies and determine if further treatment is needed. Mosbey said the ARPA grant application for the QRVs has been received, but the process could still take months.
To apply for the Tyeler Harris Memorial Scholarship, go to www.imhcc.com or contact Stephanie Hinkle at 307-324-8378.
January 20, 2023 |
Mayor Chuck Davis wants to streamline Saratoga’s airport advisory board, giving more power to the board on acquiring and spending grant money.
At the January 17th Saratoga Town Council meeting, Mayor Davis said he wants to change how the town oversees Shively Field. Speaking to Bigfoot 99, Mayor Davis said he thinks the airport, being a big money-maker, should be in control of its own destiny.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_Saratoga-Airport-Board-1.mp3Photo courtesy of Saratoga Jet Center.
As it stands, Shively Field is controlled by Saratoga’s airport advisory board. Mayor Davis said he wants to allow the airport to apply for federal and state funding without waiting for approval from the town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_Saratoga-Airport-Board-2.mp3Mayor Davis said having the airport board handle the grant writing process will take pressure off town hall, especially the clerk. Mayor Davis would remain on the airport board but the town would have minimal input on how money is being spent.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_Saratoga-Airport-Board-3.mp3The hands-off control over the airport has some citizens worried about the airport growing unchecked under the auspices of an unelected an unaccountable advisory board. Without the council having the final say over the airport’s balance sheet, the runway could be expanded, resulting in an influx of large commercial planes. Mayor Davis said the airport can only grow so much. He said he doesn’t think it would affect Saratoga’s small-town nature.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_Saratoga-Airport-Board-4.mp3Mayor Davis said he doesn’t want to remove the town’s ability to veto the airport’s plans. He said the airport would still need the council’s OK for large scale projects. Mayor Davis said he just wants to streamline the process, allowing the airport to handle day-to-day operations without having to seek council approval.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_Saratoga-Airport-Board-5.mp3Mayor Davis said his idea to change Saratoga’s airport advisory board is still in the early planning stages. He wanted to be clear that the town is not relinquishing all rights over what can and can’t be done at the airport. Even with less control, the town would still have a say in how the jet center is run. Mayor Davis said he is consulting with members of the airport advisory board on how to best implement his plan.
January 20, 2023 |
At the Wyoming Legislature on Thursday, House Bill 3 cleared its final hurdle. Speaker Pro Tempore Clark Stith was in the speaker’s chair when the tax policy legislation for wind farms came up for final reading.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_HB-3-Third-Reading-1.mp3Pictured above: Wind turbines in Carbon County. Photo by Jim O’Reilly/Bigfoot 99.
The legislation returns legal authority of assessing the valuation of wind farms to the state Department of Revenue. After a similar bill failed last year, the authority resides with county assessors this year.
After Wednesday’s lengthy debate over the policy change, lawmakers appeared to have little appetite for any more discussion. House members applauded when an amendment that would have given county assessors more power approving the state valuations of wind energy properties was withdrawn. The accuracy of state valuations has been one of the debating points throughout the discussion of the bill in committee and on the floor.
HB3 with an effective date of January 1, 2024 passed overwhelmingly.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_HB-3-Third-Reading-2.mp3The legislation was sent over to the Senate Thursday afternoon.
January 20, 2023 |
In Rawlins, city crews have been working overtime keeping up with all the snow that has fallen. The topic was the subject of public comment and appreciation during this week’s city council meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_Rawlins-Snow-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of snow management in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
January has been a wet month, maybe the wettest in over 40 years. The National Weather Service reports that as yesterday, Rawlins has received 2.18 inches of precipitation so far this year, beating the old record 1.9 inches set in January of 1980.
The data on precipitation in Rawlins dates to 1952. Meteorologist Don Day notes that the big runoff year of 2011 was preceded in December of 2010 by 2.1 inches of precipitation in Rawlins. January of 2011 saw about 1 inch of precipitation. This is all good news for a city that came through a dry 2022 with water restrictions in place for most of the year.
January 20, 2023 |
The 36th Annual Sierra Madre Winter Carnival in Encampment starts next week, January 27th and 28th.
The two-day festival takes place on the last Friday and Saturday of the month. Alyx Munson, the chairperson for the winter carnival, has helmed the event for the past four years. Munson described some of the activities offered this year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_Winter-Carnival-1.mp3The first day of the Winter Carnival ends with a treasure hunt. Starting at 7 p.m., Friday the 27th, Munson said teams search for information around town. The fastest team wins money.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_Winter-Carnival-2.mp3Each year’s treasure hunt features a different theme. As of the writing of this story, Munson said she hadn’t decided what the theme for 2023’s clue will be. The winter carnival organizer talked about a previous year’s hunt.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_Winter-Carnival-3.mp3Munson said Penny Walters and Candy Moulton, of Grandma’s Cabin, helped with research. Grandma’s Cabin is a local charity dedicated to preserving the area’s history and helping the community, specifically by donating to the Encampment school.
The Sierra Madre Winter Carnival will be capped off with a Casino Night. Held at 7 p.m. on Saturday the 28th, Munson said the gaming event is put on by a separate group of volunteers, and unaffiliated with the winter carnival. Proceeds go to support Grandma’s Cabin and the Vorn family, who lost their house in a fire before Thanksgiving.
Munson isn’t a one woman show. She said she receives help organizing and setting up the Sierra Madre Winter Carnival.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_Winter-Carnival-4.mp3Prize money is provided by the Platte Valley Arts Council. Visit the Town of Encampment’s Facebook page for a full list of carnival events.
January 20, 2023 |
Memorial Hospital of Carbon County invites you to get to know their medical care providers during two upcoming events.
On January 29th, the MHCC will hold their monthly online provider workshop. Hospital Foundation Director and Communications Officer Stephanie Hinkle describes how different medical professionals are showcased each month.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_MHCC-Events-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of MHCC. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Held every month from September to May, MHCC offers a different guest speaker and topic. The online provider workshop is held exclusively through Facebook. January 29th’s event will focus on the hospital’s new wound care clinic. Hinkle said the clinic was a needed addition to the region.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_MHCC-Events-2.mp3Besides wound care, MHCC is now offering two additional types of medical services. Hinkle said February’s provider workshop will focus on injection treatments.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_MHCC-Events-3.mp3On February 8th, the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is hosting an in-person open house. MHCC’s communications director said meeting the medical providers is a great way for people to learn about the new services offered at the hospital.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_MHCC-Events-4.mp3Before Covid, Hinkle said the hospital used to have regular open houses. With the panic over, Hinkle said she is pleased to have people visit the hospital again.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_MHCC-Events-5.mp3February’s open house will spotlight the hospital’s wound care clinic, nuclear imaging, and infusion services. According to a flyer provided by MHCC, nuclear medicine is used to study tissue and organ functions. Using a DEXA bone scanner, clinicians are able to measure bone, fat, or muscle density, allowing them to diagnose degenerative diseases, such as osteoporosis.
Also new to the hospital is a suite of infusion related services. Through intravenous injections, hospital staff can offer transfusions and immunotherapy to treat a variety of blood related conditions. Hinkle described the benefit of having this type of medical treatment in-house.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0120_MHCC-Events-6.mp3January 29th’s wound care provider workshop will be streamed online on the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County’s Facebook page from 12 to 1 p.m.
The MHCC open house is on February 8th at the hospital in Rawlins from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
January 19, 2023 |
Carbon County will follow a national trend and ban the social media platform Tik Tok from government devices.
In mid-December, Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon followed the trail of a dozen states, including South Dakota, in banning TikTok from all state electronic devices and internet-connected networks because the app could be used by foreign governments to gather data on Americans.
In announcing the ban, the governor said, “The potential for foreign governments to access information collected by TikTok is extremely troubling.”
Similar bans are spreading to the local level. Carbon County IT Director Matt Webster asked the board of commissioners on December 20th if a similar ban should be put into place here. Webster explained how TikTok could be used by the Chinese Communist Party to spy the app’s users.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Tik-Tok-Ban-1.mp3The controversial social media app is known for its ties to the Chinese government. In the program’s terms of service, TikTok is permitted to collect user’s biometric data. Through a person’s phone camera, TikTok can see and hear how users react to videos.
If used in a government building, a person could, unintentionally, allow the app to access sensitive information. To avoid potential intrusion by hackers associated with the app’s developers, Webster said he has asked county employees not to connect devices with TikTok installed to the county network.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Tik-Tok-Ban-2.mp3During the December 20th Carbon County commissioners meeting, Commissioner Sue Jones asked Webster to alter the county’s personnel policies, forbidding the app from being installed on the county’s 300 internet capable devices. The county IT director said his department is rewriting the internet usage policy to reflect this change.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Tik-Tok-Ban-3.mp3The sheriff’s department and the county attorney would be exempt from the ban, allowing the agencies to use data collected from TikTok during criminal investigations.
TikTok was established in 2016. According to recent marketing reports, the short-form video-sharing app has one billion active users each month.
January 19, 2023 |
Aspiring entrepreneurs will pitch their business ideas in a Shark Tank-like format tonight at the Parco Sinclair Theater. The finalists of the Impact 307 Carbon County Start-Up Challenge Pitch Night will pitch their business start-up plans to a panel of local judges. Winners will receive seed money to grow their business or product ideas.
The public is invited to attend with audience members able to vote in real time for favorites using their phones.
Impact 307 Assistant Director Monica Patton explained how her organization helps Carbon County residents achieve their business goals.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Pitch-Night-1.mp3Pictured above: File phot of the Parco Sinclair Theater. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
From September 6th to October 9th, Impact 307 was accepting applications for participation in the start-up challenge. Patton said the final four participants were narrowed down from a field of nearly 30 applicants.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Pitch-Night-2.mp3According to the rules and regulations found on the Impact 307 website, applicants must be residents of Carbon County. The competition is open to individuals or teams of up to five people who are in the early stages of establishing their business. Patton said her organization provides consulting advice for applicants.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Pitch-Night-3.mp3Patton said all of the judges haven’t been chosen yet, but Impact 307 Senior Director Derrek Jerred will be among them. The Impact 307 assistant director said the four finalists will have a set amount of time to present their ideas.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Pitch-Night-4.mp3The judges may choose one, or all, of the contestants to award the seed money to. Patton said attendees can also vote on their favorite sales pitch.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Pitch-Night-5.mp3Four entrepreneurs were chosen to present their business ideas during tonight’s pitch night. The Impact 307 assistant director described one of the finalists.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Pitch-Night-6.mp3Encampment River Glamping was also chosen to present their business idea to the Impact 307 judges. Glamping, short for glamorous camping, usually involves more luxurious accommodations than what is found at a typical campground. Patton described the Encampment River Glamping business plan.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Pitch-Night-7.mp3The Wandering Chef is another finalist for the Impact 307 investment money. Patton said the business advises restaurants and individuals about food preparation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Pitch-Night-8.mp3The fourth finalist is Brewed Learning. The Impact 307 assistant director described the coffee related business plan.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Pitch-Night-9.mp3Patton said the judges will decide which start-ups they award the seed money to. If multiple companies are chosen, the judges are able to split the winnings as they see fit. The Impact 307 assistant director said the winners must comply with any recommendations before they receive the investment capital.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_Pitch-Night-10.mp3The Impact 307 Carbon County Start-up Challenge pitch night will be held at the Parco Theater in Sinclair from 5-8 p.m. tonight.
January 19, 2023 |
House Bill 3, a piece of tax policy legislation important to the counties in the wind energy areas of Wyoming, passed second reading on Tuesday.
The bill gives county assessors a first-ever look at how the Department of Revenue determines the valuation of wind farms. Assessors will still not have a right to appeal the assessment if they believe it is too low, but they will have some input into the process. Debate was lively, lasting for more than 45 minutes on the legislation and the effective date.
HB 3 came out of the Corporations Committee last week with an amendment that made the effective date—when the legislation becomes law—January 1, 2024. The original language carried an effective immediately timeline.
A floor amendment on first reading brought by Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, who opposes counties conducting their own assessments of wind farms, backdated the effective date to January 1, 2023.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_House-Bill-3_1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of wind turbines in Shirley Basin. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
The effective date is a big deal, especially for counties who hired an outside contractor last fall to conduct the inspections. During committee testimony last week, counties expressed concern that independent energy producers project a high tax return when they’re pitching a wind project to commissioners in hopes of securing a special use permit. After the plant is built, the state’s assessed valuation yields a much smaller tax.
The Department of Revenue conducted the assessments for decade starting in 2008 without any legal authority to do so. In 2021, a review of state law revealed the authority belonged with the counties not the state. The legislature failed to pass a new law last year giving the DOR the responsibility. As a result, the authority defaulted back to the counties.
Late last year, the nine wind producing counties in Wyoming hired a Texas firm that specializes in valuations of large, complex industrial facilities to conduct the assessments. The company is expected to deliver those assessments over the next couple of weeks. The reports are due to the state are due on March 1, possibly beating HB 3 becoming law.
Rep. Mike Yin of Jackson said the DOR should back off, and the counties should proceed with their assessment plans to avoid conflicts and wasting money.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_House-Bill-3_2.mp3Rep. Zwonitzer accused county assessors of moving “prematurely” in hiring the outside contractor when they knew a bill like HB 3 was in the works. Zwonitzer would prefer that the county assessments are not delivered to the independent energy producers this year. Opponents of Zwonitzer’s amendment to backdate HB 3 said the county assessors were doing their job because the responsibility became theirs at the start of the year.
Representative Scott Heiner of Sweetwater, Lincoln and Uinta County said it would be healthy to see the two sets of numbers—the ones from the state and the counties for the same projects—and let the chips fall.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_House-Bill-3_3.mp3Zwonitzer’s floor amendment backdating HB 3 to January 23 failed. House Bill 3 passed. Both were voice votes. It faces one more reading in the House.
January 19, 2023 |
The Saratoga Middle/High School boys wrestling team had a great weekend in Wind River country.
Jared Mason, the SMHS wrestling coach, said he had a nearly full roster at last weekend’s Don Runner Invitational in Pavillion. As well as a second and fourth-place finish, Coach Mason said his team brought home two first-place victories.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_HS-Wrestling-1.mp3On January 7th, the Saratoga wrestling team attended the Wrangler Duals held at the Shoshoni High School. Coach Mason said his team faced some stiff competition.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_HS-Wrestling-2.mp3Coach Mason said his team will attend a match in Lander this weekend. He said his squad will watch students from higher division schools compete. Coach Mason said it will give his team a chance to compare themselves to the competition before the January 27th Ron Thon in Riverton.
Coach Mason said the two-day event is one of the most demanding tournaments on the schedule.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_HS-Wrestling-3.mp3With last weekend’s showing, the Panther boys wrestling team is doing well. Coach Mason said the boys are primed for a good season.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0119_HS-Wrestling-4.mp3Starting on January 27th, the Ron Thon high school wrestling tournament will see the Saratoga Panthers wrestling team face off against competitors from across the state.
January 18, 2023 |
Governor Mark Gordon has announced the appointment of Kelly Norris as Interim State Forester. Norris is moving into the role due to the retirement of Bill Crapser, who served as the State Forester for 19 years.
In a written statement Tuesday, the governor thanked Crasper for his many years of service, as well as his leadership and expertise.”
Norris has been with the Wyoming State Forestry Division since 2010. She served as a forester for the U.S. Forest Service and as District Forester for Wyoming District 5 before being promoted to Assistant State Forester last year.
The Forestry Division is responsible for the management of approximately 263,000 acres of forested trust land across the state. This management includes timber management and harvest, and managing our state lands for long term forest health and productivity. The division is also responsible for fire management on 3.6 million surface acres of state trust land and cooperative fire management on private and federal lands.
Pictured above: Kelly Norris/LinkedIn.
January 18, 2023 |
Here’s a chance to have your art featured on the Platte Valley Arts Council Facebook page.
The Platte Valley Arts Council is searching for local artists to showcase online as a cover artist. Stacy Crimmins is the Platte Valley Arts Council treasurer. She explained what the PVAC is looking for.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0118_Art-Council-11.mp3Pictured above: PVAC’s January Facebook cover photo.
Every month, the chosen artist is displayed as the Platte Valley Arts Council’s Facebook cover photo. Tattoo artist and PVAC Vice-President Shirley Hillyard is the featured artist for January. Crimmins said the Arts Council is open to a broad variety of art styles.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0118_Art-Council-2.mp3This Thursday, January 19th, the Platte Valley Arts Council is hosting a $15 a person, Crafts, Chats, and Cheers event at the Red Wagon, in Encampment. Crimmins said the Arts Council sponsors a different craft event each month.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0118_Art-Council-3.mp3December’s Crafts, Chats, and Cheers focused on gift wrapping and creating Christmas cards. Crimmins said, this month, participants will learn how to construct dreamcatchers with Hillyard.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0118_Art-Council-4.mp3January 28th and 29th is the 36th Annual Sierra Madre Winter Carnival in Encampment. The Platte Valley Arts Council is judging and supplying prize money for the snow painting contest.
Anyone interested in being featured as the Platte Valley Arts Council’s cover artist is asked to contact the council through Facebook.
January 18, 2023 |
A bill to phase out the sales of electric cars in the state over the next decade was introduced on Friday in the Wyoming Senate.
Bucking a trend started in California and New York to ban gas-powered cars, the legislation introduced Friday would ban the sale of new electric cars by 2035.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0118_State-Senate-1.mp3Senator Jim Anderson of Natrona County sponsored by the resolution. Representative Don Burkhart of Rawlins is a co-sponsor.
SJ0004 is a bill “expressing support for phasing out the sale of new electric vehicles in Wyoming by 2035.” It notes that “oil and gas production has long been one of Wyoming’s proud and valued industries.”
The legislation states that Wyoming’s vast stretches of highway coupled with the lack of vehicle charging stations makes the widespread use of electric vehicles impractical. The lawmakers also note that the batteries for EVs require critical minerals whose “domestic supply is limited and at risk for disruption.”
EV’s are hardly green or earth friendly, either. The resolution makes note that the large, heavy batteries needed for electric cars and trucks are not easily recyclable or disposable, meaning that municipal landfills in Wyoming will be required to develop practices to dispose of the minerals in a safe and responsible manner.
Because of the thousands of people employed in the oil and gas industry, the legislation says that moving to EVs would have “deleterious impacts on Wyoming’s communities” and would be detrimental to the state’s economy.
It also encourages Wyoming residents to avoid purchasing an EV during the phase out period.
Also on Friday, the Senate passed on first reading an amendment that places a cap of 30-cents on the highest priced cigars sold to smokers in the state.
Under state law now cigars, unlike cigarettes, are taxed at the wholesale level, not at the point of sale. Senate File 42 would place the tax burden on smokers but prevent the tax from exceeding $0.30 for any cigar, not matter the retail cost.
The Senate Revenue committee sent the bill to the floor with a do-pass recommendation.
Senator Stephan Pappas of Laramie County said any cigar retailing for $1.50 or more would carry a 30-cent tax. He explained the intent and acknowledged it will result in less state revenue.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0118_State-Senate-2.mp3Pappas said the flat tax would provide uniformity since it would be a per-unit tax, similar to cigarettes, rather than a tax on quality.
Some lawmakers opposed the bill saying tobacco products should be taxed onerously because of perceived health risks. Senator Anthony Bouchard took the opposite approach and said the state tax should be eliminated altogether, noting that the federal government levies a 52 percent excise tax on cigars.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0118_State-Senate-3.mp3Senator Larry Hicks said he supports the intent of the bill, but was a no vote on the principal that revenue bills—even ones that reduce state revenues—belong in the House not the Senate.
In the end, the vote was close on first reading — 15 “yes” and 14 “no.” Yesterday, Senate File 42 passed third reading by a much wider margin — 26-5 and was sent to the House for introduction in the lower chamber.
The fiscal note reports that the bill could cost the state about $181,000 a year in revenue if sales pricey cigars remain at current levels.
January 18, 2023 |
In a stunning sequence of events, the agenda of last night’s Rawlins City Council meeting was amended within the opening minutes to accommodate a request from Tonya Lewman, the winning candidate from Ward 2 in last year’s General Election, to take the oath of office.
Lewman did not to take the oath at the January 3rd meeting after reading a statement where she suggested that she might face a charge of perjury over accepting an illegal campaign contribution. The Ward 2 candidate was sworn in shortly after 10 p.m. last night after a notary public was enlisted to conduct the oath.
Mayor Terry Weickum did not preside over last night’s meeting. Newly appointed Vice Mayor Steve Sanger was in the mayor’s seat in Weickum’s absence.
Councilman Darril Garner opened the discussion mere minutes into the meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0118_Rawlins-City-Council-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Lewman has maintained in social media posts that the Ward 2 seat she won is not vacant. Her failure to take the oath at the first meeting of the year was based on a miscommunication, she has said.
No judge was available last night and the city clerk, who is eligible to give the oath, declined to so, as is the right of any official. Vice Mayor Sanger cited a state statute that states that an official cannot be forced to give the oath.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0118_Rawlins-City-Council-2.mp3The council agreed to amend the agenda and list the matter as unfinished business to be considered later. In the interim, Lewman arranged for a notary public to conduct the oath, which is also allowable under state law.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0118_Rawlins-City-Council-3.mp3The notary recruited to deliver the oath was Scott Bach, who is the husband of Amy Bach who is the attorney who has represented Dirty Boyz at City Council meetings over the last several months. Dirty Boyz is the company that made the apparently illegal campaign contribution to Lewman’s campaign. Leman has said she thought she was accepting a personal check rather than a corporate one.
After taking the oath, Lewman took a seat with the other council members as the meeting moved to new business.
The dramatic turnaround comes after city council met in emergency session last week to formally approve a different procedure for filling the seat. Vice Mayor Sanger said early in the meeting that the governing body wanted to fill the seat as quickly as possible so that Ward 2 is fully represented.
January 17, 2023 |
Government agencies asked for public input on the proposed land swap associated with the West Fork Reservoir at a public meeting in Saratoga on Thursday.
The January 12th meeting was one of three hosted by the U.S. Forest Service on both sides of the Wyoming-Colorado state line last week. Along with the Forest Service, the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Army Corp of Engineers discussed the West Fork Battle Creek Land Exchange Proposal. Public comments were also taken. Held at the Platte Valley Community Center, the meeting was a final chance for people to question in a public forum how and why the Wyoming is seeking to trade eight parcels of state-owned land for a single parcel of USFS controlled acreage.
According to the Forest Service, the Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investments submitted the land swap proposal last November. The swap will facilitate the construction of a 10,000-acre feet reservoir intended to provide late season irrigation to ranches in the Little Snake River Valley on both sides of the state line.
Brush Creek District Ranger Jason Armbruster said the Forest Service is conducting a feasibility study and asked for public input on the project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Land-Swap-1.mp3The exchange would allow the state to build a dam on the West Fork Battle Creek in the Sierra Madre’s. The State is is offering eight, unconnected parcels of land, totaling around 4,400 acres in exchange for 1,762-acres of federal land along Wyoming Highway 70.
Jason Crowder, deputy director for the Office of State Lands and Investments said the specific parcels were chosen because they weren’t making enough money for the state.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Land-Swap-2.mp3Crowder also said the state-owned parcels are difficult to get to, while the federally controlled land can be accessed from Highway 70.
The proposal to build the reservoir, the unintended consequences and questions about who will pay for it have been the subject of political controversy in the legislature for a decade.
William “Jeb” Steward, a former state representative from Encampment, asked who is responsible for signing off on the land exchange. Armbruster said the forest supervisor, Russ Bacon, had the final say.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Land-Swap-3.mp3Armbruster added that his role is to gather information and make recommendations to Bacon.
The Little Snake River Conservation District along with ranchers in northern Colorado have been the driving force behind developing the reservoir. The irrigators claim that during last 50 years irrigators that they have been short between 2,800-to-20,000 acre-feet of irrigation water 40 percent of the time.
Eamon O’Toole runs the Ladder Ranch in Savery and is a member of the Little Snake River Conservation District. O’Toole said his ranch doesn’t receive enough water late in the season during dry years when the Little Snake River runs low.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Land-Swap-4.mp3Using Lake Mead as an example, O’Toole said droughts have affected the entire southwest portion of the country. The rancher said the West Fork reservoir would give his region more available water.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Land-Swap-5.mp3Since the project would benefit both Wyoming and Colorado ranchers, the question about who will pay for the reservoir has dogged discussions from the beginning. With Wyoming dedicating the bulk of the money, Riverside resident LeAnne Stevenson asked when Colorado would begin to contribute.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Land-Swap-6.mp3Jason Mead, the Interim Director of the Wyoming Water Development Office, said, of the 19,000 acres the West Fork Reservoir could provide with irrigation water, roughly 27 percent of that service area is in Colorado. He said Wyoming expects Colorado to pay its fair share.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Land-Swap-7.mp3Officials in Colorado have never made a commitment of putting up any money for the project.
Mead added the federal government will look at the NRCS funding available for the project and determine how much each state should provide.
Carbon County Emergency Management Coordinator Lenny Layman asked, if the dam fails, would it pose a significant danger to people downstream. The Wyoming Water Development Office director said the West Fork Battle Creek dam would be built to high safety standards.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Land-Swap-8.mp3Questions on some of the specifics of the proposed land exchange, such as how the value of the parcels are determined, were not answered at the meeting. U.S. Forest Service Ranger, Armbruster, said the process is very early in development, and more information would be provided later. When asked if public comments have the potential to sway the project, Shawn Follum, the NRCS safety engineer for the project, said yes, to an extent.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Land-Swap-9.mp3January 12th’s invitation for public comment was the last meeting in the feasibility analysis portion of the project. The comment period extends until February 13th of this year. The next step in the process is a National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA, analysis to determine any potential harm the construction of the reservoir may have on the local ecology. When the survey is completed, another series of public meetings will be held. The entire process is expected to take until May of 2024.
January 17, 2023 |
The Rawlins City Council formally approved the process for filling the vacant seat on the governing body during a special meeting held Thursday. Following an executive session, Mayor Terry Weickum announced the plan, which is essentially unchanged from the one put forward by city staff a week earlier.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Rawlins-City-Council-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade clarified that the sitting council will vote for the nominees using the same process they used to elect the mayor and vice-mayor earlier this month—by secret, hand written ballots. The nominee garnering the most votes will be appointed to the vacant seat.
The Ward 2 seat is vacant after the winner of the general election, Tonya Lewman, chose not to be sworn into office on January 3rd because of the possible legal jeopardy of taking the oath after it was revealed that she accepted and documented an illegal campaign contribution.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Rawlins-City-Council-2.mp3After reading her statement at the first council meeting of the year, Lewman did not take the oath of office and the Ward 2 seat was vacated.
The city attorney was asked at last week’s special meeting to cite the state statute being used to fill the vacancy.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Rawlins-City-Council-3.mp3Wade added that the process to fill the seat will be by nominating and voting in open session using the same rules used to appoint the mayor and vice-mayor. Each member of the council shall have one vote.
The city attorney also explained the eligibility requirements, which involve using only the voter roll of Ward 2.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Rawlins-City-Council-4.mp3The vacant seat will be filled during the first council meeting of February.
Also at the special meeting, city council discussed several other matters, including discontinuing the practice of reading letters sent by the public to council—a policy adopted during the Covid year of 2020 when chambers were closed—but nothing was decided.
January 17, 2023 |
The cupboards at the Platte Valley Food Pantry in Saratoga are almost bare and donations are needed.
The economics of the holiday season was hard on local families, and it left the Food Bank of Wyoming’s Saratoga branch low on just about every kind of food.
Wanda Snell manages the Platte Valley Food Pantry’s volunteers. She said, last month, the number of needy families tripled.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Food-Bank-Shortage-1.mp3Starting in October, Snell said the food pantry has experienced higher than average numbers of families requesting food assistance. Snell said inflation has caused an unprecedented run on the food bank.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Food-Bank-Shortage-2.mp3The Platte Valley Food Pantry’s mission is to provide families with a nutritionally balanced selection of food. With the pantry only being open 3 days a month, Snell said it is difficult to distribute perishable items before they expire. She said the food bank is completely out of ground beef.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Food-Bank-Shortage-3.mp3The food bank relies on donations of food and money to keep the shelves stoked. Through the Wyoming Hunger Initiative, first lady, Jennie Gordon established the Food from the Field program. Snell explained how the program benefits the Saratoga food pantry.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Food-Bank-Shortage-4.mp3Snell said the conclusion of the hunting season has caused the supply of wild game to cease.
As reported by Bigfoot99 in September, the Platte Valley Food Pantry was also providing needy families vouchers, of up to $10, to Valley Foods. Snell said the supermarket recently stopped honoring the coupons.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Food-Bank-Shortage-5.mp3Saratoga’s food stockpiles have been especially hard hit. Snell said she believes a recent influx of out-of-state workers has contributed to the food bank’s shortages. She said the Platte Valley Food Pantry does not deny anyone in need.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Food-Bank-Shortage-6.mp3The Medicine Bow Food Pantry’s founder, Lucinda Schofield, said she is not experiencing the same supply issues as Saratoga. Schofield said, on top of purchasing food from Casper, she receives regular donations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Food-Bank-Shortage-7.mp3The Food Bank of Wyoming services the entire state. Schofield invited anyone in need to come to the Medicine Bow Food Pantry at 221 Pine Street, just South of the town hall.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0117_Food-Bank-Shortage-8.mp3Wanda Snell, of the Platte Valley Food Pantry said donation boxes for non-perishable goods are located around Saratoga, specifically at Valley Foods. If someone wanted to contribute meat, Snell said a volunteer would be available at the Saratoga food bank, at 112 Bridge Avenue, to accept the donation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Food-09.mp3The Platte Valley Food Pantry is open on the first Tuesday of the month, from 4 to 5pm, and 10 to 11am on the first and third Saturdays. Call 307-256-2860 to contact a Platte Valley Food Pantry volunteer.
For more information about food panties around the state, go to the Food Bank of Wyoming’s website, at www.wyomingfoodbank.org and click on the Find Food icon.
January 17, 2023 |
A Saratoga man accused of poaching will appear in court on Friday for a penalty hearing.
Tom Arthur, the owner of the Upper Cedar Creek Ranch face charges from early September for intentionally taking an antlered big game animal out of season.
During a plea hearing after Christmas, Arthur changed his initial plea of “not guilty” to “guilty.”
A penalty hearing is set for this Friday. Arthur faces financial penalty as well as the possible loss of hunting privileges in 48 states, not just Wyoming, for up to five years.
Pictured above: File photo of a mule deer.
January 16, 2023 |
Today is Martin Luther King Day, a holiday for most governmental workers and some businesses. The Wyoming Legislature will be in session today, though. Because of the tight 37-day schedule state lawmakers are under in the general session, the part-time legislature will convene today.
The legislature will recess for a day next Monday, January 23rd. According to the official schedule, the last day for Senate Files to be introduced is Thursday, January 26. The last day for House Bills to be introduced is Tuesday, January 31.
Martin Luther King Day is observed by the federal government on the third Monday of January.
January 16, 2023 |
In legislative business on Friday, the House Corporations Committee voted unanimously to approve a bill on how independently owned wind farms are appraised for property taxes. The committee vote was 9-0 after an hour of testimony.
At the heart of the tax policy debate is whether the state or local counts governments should assess the wind energy plants that are privately owned. By state statute, the Wyoming Department of Revenue assesses public utilities. These primarily involve electricity, natural gas and telephone. For over a decade beginning in 2008, the DOR conducted the assessments for privately-owned wind farms, too. In 2021, a new Department of Revenue, Brenda Hansen, determined that Wyoming law did not give her agency the authority conduct those valuations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0116_HB-3-Passes-1.mp3Photo: Jim O’Reilly/Bigfoot 99.
Last year, after the legislature failed to amend the law, the taxing authority was turned over to the nine counties in Wyoming that are home to privately-owned wind energy installations.
Not everyone was happy, including wind energy producers and their lobbyists, who testified that they want the state to conduct the valuations. The companies said they want a stable and predictable tax climate and only the state can provide it. House Bill 3 is the result of their unhappiness. The corporation committee sponsored the legislation. The chairman of the House committee, Jared Olsen of Laramie County, opened Friday’s meeting saying HB 3 puts the taxing authority for wind farms with the state.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0116_HB-3-Passes-2.mp3How the department reached its assessed valued has been off-limits to county assessors in the past, creating suspicion that properties were being undervalued. Some wondered if the state was even doing its job of inspecting the sites.
Converse County Assessor Dixie Huxtable is among the critics of how the state has conducted the valuations. Huxtable said she did not support HB 3 and said the valuations should remain at the local level where they belong.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0116_HB-3-Passes-3.mp3Most, but not all the nine affected counties affected by HB 3, believe the taxing authority should happen at the local level because they have the most at stake and are more familiar with the operations that are occurring within their county lines. When the state abdicated taxing authority over independent producers last year, the nine counties—including Carbon, unanimously agreed to hire the same Texas-based company, TY Pickett, to conduct the valuations on their behalf. TY Pickett is expected to be issuing a report on its valuations within the next two or three weeks. The counties have a March 1 deadline to submit their valuations for 2022 to the state.
HB 3 carries an effective date that would likely fall after this year’s tax reporting is due. Early in Friday’s meeting, Chairman Olsen said the bill could be back dated to January of this year. This would leave the counties on the hook for the valuations they have contracted for—and the state with an embarrassing smoking gun at its feet if the DOR’s state valuation comes in far less than what the counties report.
Converse County Commissioner Jim Willox questioned whether the bill could be backdated legally.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0116_HB-3-Passes-4.mp3The Converse County Commissioner chair said the biggest problem with the bill said his biggest objection to the bill is that it does not allow local governments to appeal an assessed valuation if it was deemed to be off the mark.
Huxtable defended using TY Picken, saying the company is already under contract to provide valuation on 70 other complex facilities in Converse County, which also is home to oil, gas and coal production. Carbon County Commissioners report that the Texas company is under contract here to provide valuations of the refinery operation, Brush Creek guest ranch, as well as other properties. Huxtable was asked if hiring a third party contractor will produce enough additional tax to pay for itself.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0116_HB-3-Passes-5.mp3When the motion came to vote for the bill, Rep. Mike Yin of Teton County offered an amendment to change the effective date to January 1, 2024.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0116_HB-3-Passes-6.mp3Yin’s amendment passed unanimously as did the bill itself. House Bill 3 now advances to the Floor for a debate in the committee of the whole.
January 16, 2023 |
The inaugural 307 GoFast on Ice was a success, said race organizers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0116_Go-Fast-1.mp3Saturday, January 14th, was the very first ice racing competition held on Lake Saratoga. 307 GoFast is a racing league established by Tyler Roy and Phillip Smith. With the cancelation of the 2023 Saratoga ice fishing derby, Roy and Smith were able to create an oval track on the frozen surface of Lake Saratoga. Racers from around the region competed in seven different disciplines for prize money.
Event organizers said 135 spectators paid the $10 gate fee to attend the races. Twenty racers, in seven classes, battled for traction on the slick surface. Sixteen men and four women drove a variety of side by sides, ATV’s, and motorcycles in two preliminary four lap heats, with a third, six lap race determining the winners. Race organizers said contestants from Laramie, Gillette, northern Colorado, Evanston, Rawlins, Sinclair, and Saratoga participated.
The event began with turbo, non-traction, side-by-sides. Non-traction means tires with ice screws installed were not permitted. The first class was followed by long screw bikes. Women’s turbo, non-traction, side-by-sides were next. Short screw bikes, ATV’s, and naturally aspirated side-by-sides, both traction and non-traction, rounded out the schedule. Long screw bike winner, Scott Winslow, described the difference between the long and short screw motorcycles.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0116_Go-Fast-2.mp3Winslow is a member of the North Platte Enduro Racers. Fellow member Mike Miner won the title for short screw bikes.
During the first long screw bike race, Winslow took a hard spill around turn one. He said the uneven ice surface caused a piece of his motorcycle to become tangled, resulting in his fall.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0116_Go-Fast-3.mp3Winslow was uninjured and went on to win in his class. During the women’s side-by-side event, a racer had the turbo fail in her vehicle. The final race of the day saw 307 GoFast’s Phil Smith collide with another racer, resulting in Smith breaking a wheel off his side-by-side. Thankfully, no one was hurt and the SCWEMS members stationed at the track were not needed.
After the races had finished, Smith said the event was a success. He, his sister Susan, and Tyler Roy thanked the event’s sponsors.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0116_Go-Fast-4.mp3Shawn Fletcher won the men’s turbo, non-traction, side-by-side championship. Scott Winslow took home first in the long screw bike class. In the women’s turbo, non-traction, class, Tracy Fletcher was first. In short screw bikes, Mike Miner was the victor. Levi Porter won the ATV class. 307 GoFast’s own Phil Smith won the non-turbo, non-traction, side-by-side race. The final class, men’s turbo, traction, side-by-side had no winner due to the race being cut short after Smith’s accident.
The winner’s ceremony was held at the Lazy River Cantina, one of the sponsors of the event.
The next running of the 307 GoFast on Ice will be held on February 11th. If you’re interested in registering for the second go-round, check out their Facebook page at 307 Go Fast.
1 of 3 Photo by Matthew Copeland/Bigfoot 99. Photo by Matthew Copeland/Bigfoot 99. Photo by Matthew Copeland/Bigfoot 99.
January 13, 2023 |
The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office is looking for the person or persons responsible for shooting a service dog in Hanna. Although shot twice and left to die, the dog survived.
On the night of January 8th, Charles Owens’ two-and-a-half-year-old service dog, Mollie, escaped from his brother’s backyard in Hanna. The next morning, Mollie was found lying in a pool of blood, with two gunshot wounds. Owens described how he found out about the attack.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dog-Shooting-1.mp3Earlier in the day, Owens had gone with his friend to Rawlins because their dog had been injured in an unrelated incident. He left Mollie with his brother. Winter weather caused WYDOT to close the roads, so Owens had to spend the night in Rawlins.
Owens’ brother transported the dog to the Carbon County Veterinary Hospital in Rawlins. Owens said Mollie underwent several surgeries.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dog-Shooting-2.mp3Mollie is a registered service animal. She helps Owens, who suffers from anxiety brought about by past trauma, as well as Owens’ brother, who has epilepsy.
1 of 2 Photo courtesy Charles Owens. Photo courtesy Charles Owens. Owens said Mollie was shot with two nine-millimeter bullets. He said staff at the veterinary hospital were impressed by how quickly Mollie has recovered.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dog-Shooting-3.mp3The attack has left Owens with unexpected vet bills. He said he is unable to cover the cost of Mollie’s treatment.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dog-Shooting-4.mp3Owens has set up a GoFundMe campaign to help pay for Mollie’s vet bills. He said people can donate online or give directly to the Carbon County Veterinary Hospital. Owens said he still needs to raise more than $2,500.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dog-Shooting-5.mp3Hanna marshals and the Carbon County Sheriff’s Department are looking into the attack. Owens’ said he is unhappy with the way the investigation is being handled.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dog-Shooting-6.mp3Sheriff Alex Bakken said he is unable to provide a statement since the investigation is ongoing.
January 13, 2023 |
The Dixon Airport needs major improvements.
A recently completed master plan for the facility provides a roadmap to what needs to be done. Jeremy McCallister of T-O Engineers presented a the plan to the Carbon County commissioners at the board’s December 20th meeting. The master plan is updated every 10 years. McCallister explained went into the latest edition.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dixon-Airport-Master-Plan-1.mp3Based on the type of planes able to land on the runway, the Federal Aviation Administration assigns an airport a letter and number rating. The Dixon Airport is rated at B2. The letter represents the speed of airplanes permitted to use the runway, with A being the slowest and E being, basically, fighter jet speed. McCallister described what the number means.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dixon-Airport-Master-Plan-2.mp3McCallister said the 2011 airport master plan recommended to increase the runway rating to a C. He said his findings didn’t show that to be necessary.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dixon-Airport-Master-Plan-3.mp3The FAA requires an airport to begin planning to upgrade after 350 planes of a higher speed class use the runway. After 500 landings and take offs of C-class planes, the FAA will demand the airport make the necessary safety changes to accommodate the faster aircraft. McCallister said the Dixon airport doesn’t need to change its speed rating, but more serious problems must be considered.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dixon-Airport-Master-Plan-4.mp3McCallister said the runway and taxiway are too close. He said the plan is to demolish the existing connecting roads and place them in a different location, giving planes more space when waiting to take off. The T-O Engineer said the FAA also wants the airport to offer better public services.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dixon-Airport-Master-Plan-5.mp3According to the master plan, Dixon Airport’s largest problem is related to the runway itself. Built in 2005, McCallister said testing showed the pavement can no longer support the weight of landing aircraft.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dixon-Airport-Master-Plan-6.mp3The T-O Engineer said the runway surface would noticeably bend when driven on by cars. He said the FAA has verified his findings.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dixon-Airport-Master-Plan-7.mp3McCallister said the FAA has given the Dixon Airport until 2029 to replace the landing surface. Using government grants, the FAA would cover 90% of the cost to redo the runway, with WyDot chipping in another 6%. The airport would be on the hook for the remaining $600,000 of the proposed $15 million price tag. McCallister said he wants to make sure the project is properly funded.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dixon-Airport-Master-Plan-8.mp3McCallister said recently built hangers are also on the faulty pavement. He said the FAA is unlikely to offer financial assistance due to the structures’ distance from the runway. County commissioner Sue Jones said the ground is already failing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Dixon-Airport-Master-Plan-9.mp3When the runway project begins, McCallister said it would take a season to complete the repairs. The airport would be unusable during construction. County commissioners voted to allow McCallister to submit his completed airport master plan to the FAA.
January 13, 2023 |
Byron Matthews, a longtime firefighter from Cheyenne, has been named State Fire Marshal. Governor Mark Gordon announced the appointment yesterday.
Matthews replaces Mark Young, who is retiring after serving as interim State Fire Marshal following the retirement of Michael Reed in August, 2022.
Mathews has been employed by Cheyenne Fire Rescue (CFR) since 1999 and currently serves as Fire Marshal Division Chief. Mathews has worked through all the ranks at CFR, including Firefighter, Engineer and Lieutenant. In addition to serving as State Fire Marshal, Matthews will serve as Director of the Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical. Safety, which includes conducting fire and electrical inspections of public buildings, firefighter training and arson investigations.
Reed, a former Chief of Police in Rawlins, served as State Fire Marshall for six years before retiring last summer. The agency has a biennial budget of $7.3 million and a staff of 33 in four divisions.
Photo courtesy Wyoming State Fire Marshal/Facebook.
January 13, 2023 |
A vacant, old bar in Saratoga will come back to life as an office building.
Triple D Construction will move its offices into the 130-year-old, faded green building at East Bridge and River Street. Once known as J.D. Paulson Saloon, the building was established on the east bank of the river in the 1800’s. More familiarly known as the “green building,” it’s fading green paint the indicates years of neglect. It has been vacant for years. Bryan Drake, Triple D’s owner, said he intends to renovate the Western-style structure to look more like it did in the past.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Green-Building-Renovation-1.mp3Drake purchased the building from the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort last year. In October, Drake applied for a building variance from the Saratoga Planning and Zoning Commission. The age of the building meant it no longer complied with the town’s ordinances. Drake said it will need a log of work to be transformed into a modern office space with meeting room.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Green-Building-Renovation-2.mp3Still in its original 1890’s location, the green building only sits a few feet back from the road. At the December 20th town council meeting, then-Mayor Creed James explained why a variance was necessary.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Green-Building-Renovation-3.mp3Drake also needed a variance of the town’s non-conforming building ordinance.” Mayor James explained how the appraised cost of the building had to be a certain percentage over the price of renovations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Green-Building-Renovation-4.mp3Twelve out of the 18 neighbors living within 300 feet of the property indicated their approval of Drake’s plan, exceeding the 50% threshold needed for the variance to be considered. The planning and zoning commission also recommended the variance be granted. The governing body approved the variance. Drake said despite building’s age and years of neglect, said the structure has plenty of life left in it.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0113_Green-Building-Renovation-5.mp3Instead of sitting vacant, a part of Saratoga’s 19th century past will be saved and repurposed for the 21st century.
1 of 2 Photo courtesy Triple D Construction. Photo courtesy Triple D Construction.
January 12, 2023 |
Governor Mark Gordon honored two local EMTs, one of whom was killed and the other seriously injured, while responding to a crash on Interstate 80 a few days before Christmas.
Tyeler Harris and Tiffany Greutzmacher of Rawlins was responding to an emergency call on Interstate 80 when a tractor-trailer combination plowed into the crash scene they were working around 4:15 a.m. on December 21st.
Governor Gordon, in his State of the State address to the Legislature, said the pair “exemplify the spirit of what makes Wyoming so special.”
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Gov-Gordon-1.mp3A funeral service for Harris will be held in Riverton on Sunday. The memorial will be streamed live to the Platte Valley Community Center in Saratoga so friends and colleagues who cannot travel to Riverton can congregate and share their condolences. The service will be held at 1 p.m.
The governor also recounted the story of the other EMT who responded that morning from Memorial Hospital of Carbon County in Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Gov-Gordon-2.mp3The governor also honored a firefighter with the Pine Haven Volunteer Fire Department, Bruce Lang, who died December 22nd when the utility task vehicle he was riding on plunged into open water while attempting to assist another individual who had fallen through ice on Keyhole Reservoir.
Governor Gordon said first responders demonstrate the spirit of Wyoming through courage, sacrifice and neighbors helping neighbors.
January 12, 2023 |
The Towns of Encampment and Saratoga are hosting annual blood drives next week in the Platte Valley. Vitalant Blood Donations, a non-profit organization that provides blood to hospitals, will operate the two events.
The first will be held at the Grand Encampment Opera House on Monday, January 16, from 3 to 6:30pm. It is hosted in part by the Encampment National Honor society.
On Wednesday, January 18, Vitalant will be in Saratoga. The Valley Service Organization is hosting the event at the Platte Valley Community Center. Roxie Baldwin, a VSO volunteer, is organizing the Saratoga event. Baldwin said donors are needed to make up for post-Covid shortages.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Blood-Drives-1.mp3Pictured above: Photo courtesy Vitalant.
According to the American Red Cross, every 2 seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. However, only three percent of the population donates blood. While donors are desperately needed, Baldwin said some medical conditions may prevent a person from giving blood.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Blood-Drives-2.mp3Baldwin is attempting to fill the schedule with volunteers. Fifty total donation appointments were available on the 18th. As of the writing of this story, Baldwin said she had filled only 15 slots. The VSO volunteer said she has plenty of appointments available in the middle of the afternoon.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Blood-Drives-3.mp3Blood donations are at a 10-year low. The pandemic cut the number of volunteers by 10%. The blood collected during one draw has the potential to save 3 lives. Baldwin said she donates blood for the satisfaction of knowing she is helping people in need.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Blood-Drives-4.mp3If you would like to participate in the blood drive, make an appointment through Vitalant’s website at donors.vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825. To make an appointment to donate at the Platte Valley Community Center, you may call Valley Service Organization volunteer, Roxie Baldwin, at 307-329-6332.
January 12, 2023 |
The best land value in Saratoga may be a cemetery plot.
Bigfoot 99 sat down with members of the Saratoga Cemetery District to discuss how they work to maintain the town’s graveyards.
On January 10th, at 6 p.m., the Saratoga Cemetery District gathered in the Donnan room of the Platte Valley Community Center for their monthly meeting.
Formed in 1989, when Saratoga residents voted to accept a mill levy, the cemetery district was formed to oversee the town’s burial grounds. Jim Wiant is the president of the Saratoga Cemetery District. He explained the purpose of the board and the extent of their coverage.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Cemetery-District-1.mp3The Saratoga Cemetery District uses a monthly property tax payment from the county to maintain the town’s burial grounds. Wiant said, before the creation of the district, Saratoga’s public works department was responsible for the graveyard.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Cemetery-District-2.mp3The Saratoga Cemetery District was formed specifically to manage the graveyard within the town’s limits. Wiant said, if a private burial ground requires assistance, they may reach out to the cemetery district for help.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Cemetery-District-3.mp3Wiant said new fencing is the most common form of assistance the cemetery district provides to smaller burial grounds.
Aside from the Saratoga Cemetery, behind the lumber mill, the cemetery district is also responsible for maintaining the old Cadwell Cemetery on Pennock Mountain Road, east of town.
The land for the town’s cemetery was donated by the family of Taylor Pennock, a prominent figure in Saratoga’s history. The Saratoga Cemetery District’s president said the graveyard doesn’t take up the entirety of the donated land.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Cemetery-District-4.mp3While the Saratoga Cemetery District isn’t responsible for overseeing the other burial grounds in the county, they do offer finical assistance if possible. Many of the graveyards around the area are on private ranches. Cemetery district members Chuck McVey and Jamie Campbell said, with state permission, it’s still legal to inter people on private land.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Cemetery-District-5.mp3McVey is also the supervisor of Saratoga’s water and sewer department.
Some of the oldest graves in the Saratoga Cemetery date back to the 1880’s.
Time and weather have taken a toll on the headstones. Campbell and McVey talked about how the cemetery district plans to preserve the information about the people buried there without disturbing the grave markers.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Cemetery-District-6.mp3The Saratoga Cemetery District uses the money it receives from the county not only to maintain the cemetery, but also improve it. In May of 2009, they built an outdoor pavilion. In past years, they have repaved the parking lot and planted trees. More recently, they have installed sprinklers on the south side of the graveyard. Along with working on the fence and chapel, McVey said they plan to improve the pavement from Pic Pike Road to the cemetery.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Cemetery-District-7.mp3The Saratoga Cemetery District has a fulltime caretaker in Garold Galbraith. He relies on help from high school kids to weed and mow the graveyard during the summer, but he said it’s getting hard to find young people willing to work. McVey said the groundskeeper position doesn’t pay a lot, but it’s a great job for a teenager.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Cemetery-District-8.mp3Baggs is the only other town in the county with a dedicated cemetery district.
January 12, 2023 |
At the December 20th Carbon County commissioner’s meeting, a plot of land donated to Rawlins in 2019 has been returned to county control for the second time.
In June of 2017, Rawlins city manager, Scott Hannum, obtained a $187,000 grant from Wyoming Game and Fish to install a community fishing pond on the “Tin Can Hill” area of the city. In December of that year, Carbon County Commissioners agreed to deed the land to the city of Rawlins with the stimulation that the project begin within 2 years.
The 18-and-a-half-acre plot is located across from the Carbon County Fairgrounds, behind the county jail. Carbon County Clerk, Gwen Bartlett, described why the county has taken the land back.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Land-Reversion-1.mp3According to a copy of the deed provided to Bigfoot 99, the land was only to be used for a park and fishpond or “similar public purpose.” The Rawlins city government was unwilling or unable to make any improvements to the land before time elapsed.
After the land reverted back to the county, Rawlins officials expressed interest in continuing the arrangement. Bartlett said the county agreed to give the city another chance.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Land-Reversion-2.mp3Three years have passed, and the city has yet to do anything with the land. During December 20th’s county commissioner’s meeting, Commissioner Sue Jones moved to authorize Chairman John Johnson to sign a Notice of Revision, returning the land to county control. Commissioner Jones also asked Bartlett to send a letter to Rawlins officials stating they may request the land again in the future. The Carbon County Clerk said the deal isn’t off the table.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0112_Land-Reversion-3.mp3Bartlett said she wanted to make it clear the reversion clause was “simply a procedural thing” and no hard feelings exist between county commissioners and the city of Rawlins. Bartlett said Rawlins officials simply weren’t ready to proceed with the project, but they may approach the county again in the future.
January 11, 2023 |
The 2023 General Session of the Wyoming Legislature was gaveled to order on Tuesday.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0111_Wyoming-Legislature-1.mp3Pictured above: Photo courtesy Gov. Mark Gordon/Facebook.
Outgoing Senate President Dan Dockstader called the upper chamber to order. The morning session consisted of the swearing in of new members and ceremonial presentations before recessing until 2 p.m.
The first order of business in both chambers was election of leaders. Ogden Driskell was confirmed as Senate President.
In the House, Representative Albert Sommers was elected Speaker. Sommers was the only nomination offered from the floor. Sommers received 62 aye votes with no member in opposition.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0111_Wyoming-Legislature-2.mp3In a joint statement, Senate President Driskell and Speaker Sommers called for decisiveness and decorum, as well as smart fiscal stewardship, as the chambers conduct the peoples’ business. Governor Mark Gordon will address lawmakers today with his State of the State address.
January 11, 2023 |
Late fees keep piling up for the contractor hired by the Town of Saratoga for last year’s big Spring Avenue utility and street improvement project. The job is unfinished and behind schedule. The heavy winter weather of the last month has offered few windows of opportunity for work.
As a result, Spring Avenue is closed to traffic on either side of Highway 130, the main drag through town. Barriers are posted and likely will remain in place into spring. Last year, the town hired Lewis and Lewis of Rock Springs to replace the aging water pipes underneath Spring Avenue. The contractor also is responsible for repaving the streets once the new line is installed.
The original project completion date of October 31st was in peril from the start. The contractors arrived three weeks late. Then water in the bore pit in front of town hall delayed work for several weeks. Halloween came and went without the job being finished.
Pictured above: Spring Avenue bore pit. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
When Lewis and Lewis missed the October 31st deadline, the town began to assess liquidated damages. The LD’s were included in the contract as an incentive to finish the work. The fees amount to $1,750 a day that will be deducted from the contractor’s bill when the work is finished.
Snow and freezing temperatures have brought the entire project to a standstill. The unfinished streets are closed to traffic. They cannot be plowed because of their rough condition.
In November, representatives from Lewis and Lewis asked the town council to allow them to shut the job down for winter. They requested LD’s to stop until they returned in the spring.
If the town agreed not to assess liquidated damages while the contractor was away, Caleb Tygum, Lewis and Lewis’ construction manager, promised to make the unpaved roads along Spring Avenue passable for traffic. He said, because the asphalt plant his company uses was closed for the season, recycled pavement could be laid down. The RAP, or recycled asphalt pavement, is made up of the old street layer that was removed by the contractor. Tygum said the town would then be able to plow the roads. If the town chose to uphold the contract, as written, and charge the LD’s throughout the winter, Tygum would have his team keep the roads closed for the season and handle plowing themselves.
During the December 8th town council meeting, the governing body voted to uphold the contract and charge the LD’s until the project was completed. Tygum pulled his workers off the job and left the unpaved street closed.
Despite having left for the season, Lewis and Lewis is still contractually obligated to keep the roads passable to local traffic. Winter snows have made the streets difficult to traverse. During January 3rd’s council meeting, the Chairman of the Impact Joint Powers Board Richard Raymer told the new council members that, with permission from the previous council, he had sent a letter to the contractors explaining their responsibilities.
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Saratoga’s streets department, which handles snow removal on the town’s roads, is unable to plow the job site. Raymer said, for liability reasons, the contractor is required to take care of the roads.
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Raymer said he had been in contact with Lewis and Lewis’s construction manager and suggested he find a local contractor to handle snow removal. Speaking to the new town council, the Joint Powers Board chairman said Tygum was unaware the roads were impassable.
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Councilman Jerry Fluty asked Raymer why the contractor is responsible for plowing the closed sections of Spring Avenue. The JPB chairman said Lewis and Lewis is required to keep the roads open to homes and businesses.
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Mayor Chuck Davis expressed concern about the road in front of the fire department being blocked by snow. Raymer said residents also need access to the town hall, the front of which faces Spring Avenue. Having the road unplowed can make it dangerous for people to enter and exit the building. Raymer said, by not amending the contract, the town has protected itself in the event of an accident.
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With a price tag of over $2.1 million, the Spring Ave Utility and Street Improvement project is a huge investment for the town. Using a $966,000 SLIB grant, the town needed to replace the water pipes beneath Spring Avenue before failures caused even more damage. The contractor is financially responsible for any problems, such as water main breaks, resulting from its inability to finish the job on time.
Payments to Lewis and Lewis are broken up into 12 monthly installments. Liquidated damages have been held back from the past two payments. As of the writing of this story, LD’s total $94,250. With the clock still running, and the contractor not due back until spring, it is safe to say that amount will be significantly higher by the end of the project.
January 11, 2023 |
The Boys & Girls Club of Carbon County is opening a chapter in Hanna.
On Monday, January 16th, a ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at the Hanna Miner’s Memorial Recreation Center to celebrate the 23rd site in the state of the Boys & Girls Club of Wyoming.
The Boys & Girls Club offers after-school activities and mentorship for young people. Theresa Pacheco is the chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Carbon County. She said she was looking at establishing a chapter in Saratoga, but felt Hanna was more in need of her organization.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0111_Hanna-BG-Club-01.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Hanna town limits sign. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
The Town of Hanna doesn’t offer a particularly large number of activities for young people, Pachecho said. She hopes the services her youth organization offers help fill the gap.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0111_Hanna-BG-Club-02.mp3Pacheco acknowledged Hanna is experiencing hard times. She said she would like to provide the town with additional programs specific to her organization. If this program is a success, Pacheco said she won’t rule out the possibility of opening a chapter in Saratoga.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0111_Hanna-BG-Club-03.mp3The Hanna Miner’s Memorial Recreation Center was built in 1982 by the Carbon County Coal Company to attract people to the town. With the mines now closed, the town still relies on the rec center to offer activities, especially in the winter. Pacheco emphasized the importance of offering fun and interesting things for young people to do. She said she would like to expand access to the Boys & Girls Club across the county.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0111_Hanna-BG-Club-04.mp3The opening grand opening of the Hanna chapter starts at 2 p.m. on January 16th at the Hanna Miner’s Memorial Recreation Center. After the ribbon cutting ceremony, snacks and hot apple cider will be provided.
January 11, 2023 |
The first of three public meetings to be held this week on a possible land swap between the State of Wyoming and the U.S. Forest Service to facilitate a proposed reservoir on Battle Pass took place in Craig, Colorado.
A second meeting will be held in Baggs tonight and another in Saratoga Wednesday night. The meetings are prompted by a proposed Environmental Impact Statement for the West Fork Battle Creek Project Reservoir project.
The broad scope of the state-and-federal exchange involves about 1,762 acres of USFS-managed lands with up to 4,400 acres managed by the State of Wyoming. The larger NRCS-led project includes building the reservoir on lands currently managed by USFS.
The proposed 10,000 acre-fee reservoir would serve about 100 late season irrigators on either side of the Wyoming-Colorado state line along Little Snake River Valley.
Last night’s meeting was the only one scheduled to be streamed live. Representing the State were Jason Mead of the Wyoming Water development Office and Jason Crowder, Deputy Director of State Lands and Investments.
When asked how grazing leases and easements held by affected private ranches would be affected if the transaction is finalized, Crowder said the process is still in the beginning stages and many details have not yet been analyzed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0111_Land-Swap-Meeting-1.mp3The Natural Resource Conservation Service Wyoming State Office is the lead federal agency for environmental analysis of the reservoir project. The NRCS is hosting the meetings. Shawn Follum with the NRCS said although the proposed land swap is only at the feasibility stage now and few details are available, concerned citizens should submit comments now so they are eligible to offer comments later in the process. When asked if the reservoir could be built if the land swap is not finalized, Follum suggested it might be less likely.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0111_Land-Swap-Meeting-2.mp3The Forest Service presented maps and other information at last night’s meeting showing the parcels involved with the swap, the location of the reservoir, boat ramp and access road.
Tonight’s meeting in Baggs will be held at the Valley Community Center beginning at 6:30 p.m. The Saratoga meeting will be held at the Platte Valley Community Center on Thursday starting at 5:30 p.m.
January 10, 2023 |
The Rawlins City Council will conduct a “special meeting” Wednesday night. The published reason for the meeting is “to discuss procedures.” An Executive Session also will be held. No more details were given by City Hall.
Bigfoot 99 reached out for a clarification. Staff referred us to Mayor Terry Weickum.
Bigfoot 99 asked the mayor whether the meeting is to discuss the procedures for filling the empty council seat or general procedures with the two new council members seated during the first meeting of the year. Mayor Weickum said it will be a mix of both.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0110_Mayor-Weickum.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Wednesday night’s special meeting will start at 7 p.m. in council chambers at Rawlins City Hall.
January 10, 2023 |
The tug-of-war between counties in Wyoming that are home to wind turbines, the State Department of Revenue and independent energy producers over ad valorem taxes is back before the Legislature. Counties appear to have the power to win the fight.
At stake is the amount of ad valorem taxes wind energy producers say they’ll contribute to a county’s tax base when they’re seeking permits and other concessions versus what they actually pay over a project’s lifetime.
Carbon County Commissioner John Johnson raised the topic last week. Johnson asked County Assessor Renee Snyder if she has discussed the issue with assessors of other counties. Snyder said the assessors have held general discussions on the issue, and suggested a problem exists.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0110_Wind-Energy-Taxes-1.mp3Pictured above: Jim O’Reilly/Bigfoot 99.
How the installations of independent power producers are valued is a something of a mystery. The Department of Revenue is charged with conducting the assessments on privately owned projects. How an assessment is conducted and what information is used to calculate the ad valorem taxes due are not public records, though.
The under-the-table process allows companies to oversell the value of a project to county officials prior to construction and then underdeliver on ad valorem taxes once the operation is up and running. The assessor of Converse County, Dixie Huxtable, told the Cowboy State Daily recently that some projects deliver only 30% of the revenues promised up-front.
Commissioner Johnson wondered if Carbon County is experiencing the same kind of lopsided discrepancy.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0110_Wind-Energy-Taxes-2.mp3In Cheyenne, the Wyoming Department of Revenue director reports that it does not have the legal authority to value independent power producers. The agency handed off the responsibility to counties last year.
Here’s how the process works. Privately-owned developers provide the state Department of Environmental Quality Siting Council with an estimate of what property taxes, including taxes on power generation equipment, that they will pay over the life of a project. The estimate is submitted to the DOR, which then sends the assessed property tax bill to the company.
Officials in counties that are home to the wind energy projects suspect something is lost in the process, and they’re being shortchanged.
The legislature tried and failed to clarify the issue last year. Both the House and the Senate drafted bills, but neither version was introduced in the chaotic budget session.
This year, the Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions Committee will consider similar legislation. To allow for greater transparency on how valuations are reached, House Bill 3 requires that information used by the state to assess ad valorem taxes be released to county assessors for their review. The legislation protects the financial information of private companies by requiring any government employee receiving the information to sign a confidentiality agreement.
Carbon County Commissioners say they will be in Cheyenne to testify and to lobby against the legislation.
Commissioner John Espy said he discussed the matter with Jeremiah Rieman, the Executive Director of the Wyoming County Commissioners Association. Espy said he wants to arrange a meeting between county officials and the Department of Revenue to compare the audit numbers the county has received from an independent assessor with the state’s financial figures on existing projects.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0110_Wind-Energy-Taxes-3.mp3Commissioner Espy added that he would like House Bill 3 be assigned on introduction to the Revenue Committee, not Corporations. Espy is in favor of the switch because he wants to see the bill die in committee, or if passed, not implemented until at least next year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0110_Wind-Energy-Taxes-4.mp3Espy told Bigfoot 99 that essentially HB 3 is not ready for prime time. When the legislature failed to pass legislation last year, the Department of Revenue told the counties to conduct their own assessments. The counties hired a third-party Texas firm that specializes in wind projects.
If HB 3 does pass in its current form, Espy said he wants to wait a year to implement the legislation because the counties have paid the contractor and the data has been collected for this year. He also said transparency issues between independent power producers and regulated power public utilities need to be sorted out.
The chairman of the Corporations, Rep. Dan Zwonitzer of Cheyenne has been quoted in published reports that he is opposed to counties using a third-party, contracted assessor because it is a burden to taxpayers. The Department of Revenue does the work for free he said.
Therein lies the rub. County officials wonder if the DOR is doing the work at all, and if so, how. Commissioner Espy said the contractor used for this year’s wind energy plant assessment work is the same one used for the refinery, Brush Creek and other large entities.
And what is costing taxpayers more: The money paid to the independent contractor, or the tax money not being paid by producers as promised?
Espy told commissioners at last week’s meeting that part of lobbying effort over HB 3 with the Department of Revenue is that the DOR will have to accept the assessments provided by the third-party contractor.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0110_Wind-Energy-Taxes-5.mp3TY Pickett of LaGrange, Texas, performed the audit in Carbon County. The financial services company specializes in appraisals of complex properties, including public utilities, minerals, chemical and industrial plants.
Espy said he wants to compare the valuation produced by TY Pickett with the state’s valuation to quantitate the discrepancy. Espy said he suspects companies are using accelerated depreciation on IRS tax forms to lower the value of their properties. Meanwhile, the county bears the impacts of the operations while realizing less revenue than promised.
Espy said his first goal by going to Cheyenne this session is to make sure the bill does not reach the floor for debate.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0110_Wind-Energy-Taxes-6.mp3Commission Chairwoman Sue Jones told Bigfoot 99 that anytime a company wants to have the taxing authority remain with state, a suspicion exists among local officials that the tax is not accurate or too low.
Two other counties may join the lobbying effort, including Converse and Sweetwater, other commissioners said during the meeting.
January 9, 2023 |
The funeral service for Tyeler Harris, the EMT killed just before Christmas while responding to an early morning crash on Interstate 80, is scheduled for Sunday, January 15, in Riverton. The service also will be streamed on a big screen in the theater at the Platte Valley Community Center in Saratoga.
Harris was killed and a second EMT, Tiffany Greutzmacher, was seriously injured, when an apparently inattentive commercial truck driver slammed his tractor trailer combination into the crash scene where they were responding to an earlier crash around 4:15 a.m. on December 21.
Harris, a married father with three young children, and Greutzmacher had been dispatched to the original crash scene west of Rawlins around 4 a.m. while on duty with Memorial Hospital of Carbon County.
Hospital CEO Ken Harmon, in his monthly update to Carbon County Commissioners last week, briefed the board on the memorial service. Harmon said Tyeler’s family is holding the funeral in Riverton on Sunday, January 15 at 1p.m.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_EMT-Funeral-1.mp3Harmon said a large contingent of hospital staff will travel to Riverton to attend the memorial.
Commission Chair Sue Jones said the service will be streamed to the theater at the Platte Valle Community Center in Saratoga so friends and colleagues of Tyeler and his family can congregate and share their grief.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_EMT-Funeral-2.mp3Commission Chairwoman Jones offered the board’s condolences and talked about the work that emergency responders are called on to perform.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_EMT-Funeral-3.mp3Harmon said he has been working closely with the families of the two EMTs. Greutzmacher, who was transported to the hospital in Cheyenne immediately following the crash, has been released and is making good progress on her recovery at home in Rawlins
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_EMT-Funeral-4.mp3Harmon said Greutzmacher may return to service eventually. The hospital has been impacted by the loss of the two EMTs. Harmon said other agencies are assisting MHCC in providing emergency ambulance services.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_EMT-Funeral-5.mp3Harmon said the Wyoming Highway Patrol is still investigating the December 21st crash. The WHP has not announced whether any charges against the driver of the 2019 Freightliner that plowed into the crash scene have been filed or are pending. The hospital ambulance, which was new, was destroyed, Harmon said.
The impacts of the tragic, fatal crash just before Christmas have been devastating and numerous. Harmon made psychological counseling available to any staff or affected family members who wanted it. Some took advantage of the offer, he said. Harmon said he was impressed by how people have come together to support Tyeler’s family, saying it reflects well on a county that takes care of its own.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_EMT-Funeral-6.mp3A GoFundMe page that was established by a relative of Tyeler’s for the family had raised $89,000 as of Sunday. The Bank of Commerce also set up an account to take contributions for the Harris Family.
Bigfoot 99 has learned that Governor Mark Gordon will mention Tyeler Harris and Tiffany Greutzmacher in his State of the State address on Tuesday.
January 9, 2023 |
In Cheyenne, the Wyoming Legislature convenes tomorrow, January 10.
Among the bills to be considered is one that raises the age of teenage marriages from 16-years old to 18. Another raises the penalty for driving on closed roadway from not more than $1,500 to not less than $1,500.
In a sign of the times and the trouble on the dwindling Colorado River, House Bill 60 establishes a Colorado River Authority of Wyoming within the office of the state engineer. The legislation notes that the authority “shall not be interpreted to override, supersede or modify” any water right in Wyoming. The nine-member board will include one representative from Carbon County chosen by county commissioners to represent the Little Snake River Basin. A river commissioner, appointed by the governor, will represent the state and Wyoming water users in negotiations with the upper Colorado River Commission, the Colorado River basin states, and with the government of the United States.
If you smoke, expect to pay one dollar more per pack in state taxes.
The revenue committee, in House Bill 58, is asking to increase the tax from three-cents per cigarette to five-and-two-tenths cents—or over a dollar per pack. Lighting up a premium, handmade cigar wrapped in whole tobacco leaf will ring up 30-cents in taxes for the department of revenue.
Senate File 32 will make it unlawful to operate a remotely operated drone over a prison facility in Wyoming, except as authorized. As written, the legislation for the misdemeanor crime would carry a $2,000 fine and up to one year in jail.
The legislature also will consider another attempt to expand Medicaid in Wyoming.
Lawmakers will operate on a 37-day schedule with an adjournment date of Friday March 3rd at midnight. Three additional days are available if necessary.
January 9, 2023 |
One of the priorities of new Saratoga Mayor Chuck Davis and his council is hiring a new public works director.
The job description of the position is likely to undergo some changes before it is advertised. The process of redefining the scope of the work to be required began last month during a workshop where Davis met with the outgoing administration.
The resignation of Jon Winter in November caused town council to rethink the $80,000-a-year position. At the December 15th work session, outgoing and incoming council members proposed combining the public works director with other roles.
Now former councilman Jon Nelson said Saratoga may not need an office-bound public works director. Having a supervisor who splits their time between desk and field work would better suit the town’s needs. Using Baggs as an example, Nelson said a small team, including the director, handles most of the work. If a major project were to come up, the town could contract with an outside engineering firm.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_Public-Works-Director-1.mp3Pictured above: Saratoga Public Works Director Jon Winter extends the “no parking” zone on the southeast corner of First and Bridge Streets by the Wolf Hotel in October 2021. Photo by Jim O’Reilly/Bigfoot 99.
In its current form, Saratoga’s public works director is responsible for drawing up plans for major town projects. Nelson said Saratoga has an arrangement between several consulting firms specifically to handle large-scale undertakings. Called a master service agreement, it allows the town council to hire an engineering company to plan and design projects. The consulting firm would also seek out grants and other funding opportunities. Nelson said those responsibilities shouldn’t be part of the public works director’s job any longer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_Public-Works-Director-2.mp3Having an engineering firm handle the big projects would free the public works director up for other jobs. With those responsibilities no longer on his shoulders, Nelson said the director should either physically help public works employees or combine the title with the town’s vacant planning & zoning officer position.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_Public-Works-Director-3.mp3The incoming council members decided they would look into combining the public works director and planning and zoning officer into one title.
During the work session, former mayor James said the details of the position would need to be updated to reflect the change in job duties.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_Public-Works-Director-4.mp3Once the position’s new details are hammered out, the council will begin advertising for candidates. Advertising in water and sewer trade magazines was discussed as a way to attract qualified applicants.
Mayor Davis told Bigfoot 99 last week that he would wait to talk to long-time public works department employees before making any decision on how to move forward with filling the director’s position.
January 9, 2023 |
Harriett Hageman was finally sworn in as Wyoming’s sole member of the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington’s early morning hours Saturday. Hageman, along with other new House members was sworn into the 118th Congress by newly elected Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Taking the oath of office himself, the Speaker swore in the new members en masse.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_Congress-1.mp3Representative Hageman could be seen on the CSPAN cameras being congratulated by her colleagues. Hageman had already cast 15 floor votes—all in favor of McCarthy as House Speaker before the dramatic and historic week in the House came to an end. As for the battle to become House Speaker, McCarthy appeared good-natured and reconciliatory in his opening speech.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0109_Congress-2.mp3The Republican side of the aisle stood and cheered the remark. The Democrats, having lost control of the chamber, were silent as they were during much of McCarthy’s speech.
January 6, 2023 |
The City of Rawlins has announced a plan for filling the empty seat on the governing body after the winning candidate from Ward 2 chose not to take the oath of office this week at the start of the four-year term.
Tonya Lewman chose not to be sworn in after being accused of accepting an illegal campaign contribution in the amount of $300, which came in the form of a check from a local business. Lewman said she unknowingly made the mistake listed the corporate donation on a campaign finance report.
The city has announced the plan and to fill the vacant seat by next month.
Nominations will be accepted from Ward 2 residents from January 6 through January 20. All nominees must meet all eligibility requirements of an election, including Ward 2 residency. All nominees who accept nomination, or who nominate themselves, shall file an application with City Clerk Lynn Shearer.
When the nomination period closes and eligibility determined, all qualified candidates will be forwarded to the seated council. Qualified candidates will appear before the Rawlins City Council in an open and recorded session to interview for the vacancy.
With the assistance of staff and a public poll which is available online and in-person at City Hall, the candidates will be trimmed to three candidates. City council will enter executive session to deliberate on the three finalists.
Upon exiting executive session, the six-member council will nominate and vote on the finalists. The successful nominee will be seated and sworn in immediately.
The selected councilperson shall serve for a two-year term (2/2023 – 1/2025). During the next Rawlins Council election scheduled for November 2024, this seat will then be added to the ballot for a two-year term from 1/2025-1/2027. The seat will resume normal four-year rotation in 2027.
Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
January 6, 2023 |
In one of his first official acts as mayor of Saratoga, Chuck Davis appointed a new police chief.
Mayor Davis picked longtime lawman Mike Morris for the job. Chief Morris was sworn in on January 4th, taking the position previously held by Ken Lehr.
Chief Morris was born in Colorado but raised in Carbon County. Growing up in Rawlins, Morris said he has always been interested in being a first responder. Chief Morris describes his history in law enforcement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Chief-Morris-01.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Saratoga Town Hall/Police Department. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Chief Morris was undersheriff for about nine years. He left the sheriff’s office in 2013 for medical reasons. After receiving a clean bill of health, he unsuccessfully ran for Carbon County Sheriff. Chief Morris said losing the race for sheriff allowed him to be Saratoga’s chief of police.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Chief-Morris-02.mp3Davis’ decision to pick Morris to head the Saratoga PD came weeks before he took office on the belief that new leadership was needed. Morris inherited the department from Ken Lehr, who served under former mayor, Creed James. Chief Morris said he doesn’t plan to make any major changes from Lehr’s time as head of police.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Chief-Morris-03.mp3Ken Lehr was ousted from his position with short notice. When asked what role Lehr would have in his department, Chief Morris said he would make Lehr a supervisor.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Chief-Morris-04.mp3At the January 3rd Saratoga Town Council Meeting, Mayor Chuck Davis said he has known Mike Morris for a long time and feels he will make a great police chief.
January 6, 2023 |
Sue Jones was voted in as chairwoman of the Carbon County Board of Commissioners on Thursday. Travis Moore was elected Vice Chair. Clerk Gwynn Bartlett read the motion. The resulting vote was unanimous.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Jones-Named-Chairwoman-1.mp3 Pictured above L-R: Sheriff Alex Bakken, Coroner Brittany Nyman, District Court Clerk Mara Sanger, Commissioner Travis Moore, Judge Dawnessa Snyder, who swore all in, Commissioner John Johnson, Clerk Gwynn Bartlett, Treasurer Lindsey West, Assessor Renee Snider, and County Attorney Sarah Chavez-Harkins. Photo courtesy Sue Jones.
Jones becomes the first female commission chair in Carbon County history. She called the vote of confidence from her fellow board members “a true honor.” Jones replaces John Johnson as chair. Johnson, who remains on the board, was reelected to the office in November’s General Election.
The former chairman took the oath of office along with the other county elected, including Sheriff Alex Bakken, Coroner Brittany Nyman, District Court Clerk Mara Sanger, Commissioner Travis Moore, Clerk Gwynn Bartlett, Treasurer Lindsey West, Assessor Renee Snider and County Attorney Sarah Chavez-Harkins.
During commissioner discussion near the end of the meeting, Commissioner Johnson reflected on his time as chair and county government in general.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Jones-Named-Chairwoman-2.mp3Chairwoman Jones offered her thanks to her fellow commissioners for the honor of serving as the head of the board.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Jones-Named-Chairwoman-3.mp3Jones said county staff and department heads are appreciated for the work they do because they make the job of being a commissioner “so much easier.”
Judge Dawnessa Snyder conducted the swearing-in ceremonies at Thursday’s commissioners meeting.
January 6, 2023 |
Following any big snow storm, the question is always the same whether you’re shoveling your driveway or plowing out a maze of narrow streets packed with cars. Where do you pile up the snow?
The answer became critical this week as the snow kept falling. Two feet of snow was on the ground by Tuesday afternoon. Carbon County Emergency Management Coordinator Lenny Layman updated county commissioners yesterday on how the impacts from this week’s storm created issues in the Rawlins and along Interstate 80.
Layman described the logistics of how snow is handled in the city to keep streets open to traffic, especially emergency vehicles.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Storm-Impacts-1.mp3File photo of snow management in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
The emergency management coordinator said concerns ran high on Tuesday and Wednesday about having enough room for fire trucks or ambulances to navigate narrow city streets. Layman said the streets are clear now for emergency responders.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Storm-Impacts-2.mp3Layman described a “large snow event” as a storm that produces six inches or more. Only one or two inches of snow is expected today and again on Wednesday, which Layman described as “not a big deal.”
Moving tanker trucks on closed highways was another challenge this week. Long stretches of Interstate 80 across southern Wyoming were closed for a day or more at times this week. Layman talked about coordinating with multiple agencies to make sure critical fuel supplies from H.F. Sinclair could keep moving.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Storm-Impacts-3.mp3Layman said his work is done behind the scenes “as it should be.”
January 6, 2023 |
The Wyoming Highway Patrol and Wyoming Department of Transportation have teamed up to make the state’s roads safer.
According to the Highway Patrol website, 133 people lost their lives on the state’s highways, compared to 111 the year before. Wyoming Highway Patrol’s Lt. Kyle McKay said the distance between towns results in the most common cause of accidents.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Highway-Safety-1.mp3To help combat the dangers of driving, the federal government offers a highway safety grant. Both the Wyoming Highway Patrol and Department of Transportation spend the grant money in different ways. Lt. McKay explained how his department uses federal funding for programs and events throughout the state.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Highway-Safety-2.mp3Photo courtesy WHP.
Wyoming is one of 13 states to offer hardship licenses. If a 14-year-old needs to drive to school or work, the state may issue the teen limited driving privileges.
Lt. McKay said the Highway Patrol’s Alive at 25 Program is designed to teach defensive driving to the age group most likely to be involved with a fatal accident.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Highway-Safety-3.mp3According to Lt. McKay, it is not required for a 14-year-old to participate in a defensive driving course for them to obtain a hardship license.
Wyoming is home to large animals, such as elk and moose. Lt. McKay said many people hit them while driving, but collisions with animals aren’t usually fatal.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Highway-Safety-4.mp3Through the federal highway safety grant, the Wyoming Highway Patrol provides child safety seats, free of charge. Lt. McKay said his department has a limited number of car seats available to people in need.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Highway-Safety-5.mp3Before Christmas, the Wyoming Highway Patrol delivered a car seat from Cheyenne to Rawlins for a family in need. Lt. McKay said his department will try to help people, but they aren’t always able to go that far out of their way.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Highway-Safety-6.mp3The National Highway Safety Council recommends not using a car seat after it’s been involved in an accident. Lt. McKay explained why people should not purchase car seats second hand.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Highway-Safety-7.mp3Through community events, Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers are able to educate children about the importance of highway safety. Lt. McKay said schools are the best place to teach safe driving.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Highway-Safety-8.mp3WYDOT also uses federal highway safety grants to educate the public about the dangers of unsafe driving. WYDOT’s public information officer, Jordan Achs, explained how her department uses federal funding for highway safety related campaigns.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Highway-Safety-9.mp3Informing people about the dangers of speeding and distracted driving isn’t the only way WYDOT is addressing highway fatalities. Achs said WYDOT uses federal funding for projects related to highway safety.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0106_Highway-Safety-10.mp3Both the Wyoming Highway Patrol and the Department of Transportation agree that speeding and distracted driving are the largest contributors to road fatalities in the state.
January 5, 2023 |
After two new members were sworn into Rawlins City Council Tuesday, the now short-handed, six-member board elected Terry Weickum to serve two more years as mayor. Steve Sanger of Ward 3 was elected vice mayor.
Weickum will serve a two-year term as mayor until January 2025. The vote was 4-2 with council members voting by secret, hand-written ballots. Councilman Sanger made the motion to nominate Weickum.
An earlier vote on a motion by Councilman Darril Garner to nominate Jacqueline Wells as mayor failed on a 2-4 vote.
Wells nominated Garner to serve as vice-mayor. The motion failed on a tied, 3-3 vote. A majority vote is required to win a post.
Councilman Chris Weisenburg then nominated Sanger to serve a two-year term as vice-mayor. The motion passed 4-2.
The new council begins with an empty seat. The top-vote getter from Ward 3, Tonya Lewman, did not take the oath of office after acknowledging that she had accepted a corporate check, a violation of Wyoming campaign finance law.
Lewman told Bigfoot that she mistakenly thought she had accepted a personal check from the business owner rather than a corporate one.
She listed the corporate check on a campaign finance report, which was how the contribution came to light.
City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade said during a public hearing on the matter that filling the empty council seat is now a legal matter for the Wyoming Secretary of State to decide. The process is outside the scope of city council’s rules and is a state matter, Wade said.
Two council members said farewell at the meeting. Debari Martinez stepped down after serving on the council for 40 years. Martinez said he wanted to make three points as he left office.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Debari-Martinez.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Mayor Weickum said that the 40 years Martinez served on city council is record in Wyoming State history. Linda Smith, who served eight years, also offered a brief remark.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Linda-Smith.mp3Councilman Aaron Durst exited after one term in office. He did not run for re-election. Durst was absent from the dais after council took a recess prior to the swearing-of the new members and the farewell remarks from Martinez and Smith. Durst, like Smith, was present during the first half of the council meeting when critical votes were taken.
Judge Susan Stipe swore in the new members. Before offering the oath, Judge Stipe talked about the hard work of serving on council.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Judge-Stipe.mp3Following the seating of the new members, Mayor Weickum welcomed them to the new council.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Mayor-Weickum.mp3The council then went into executive session. When the members returned, they elected officers—mayor and vice mayor—and council representatives to various boards. The next meeting is set for January 17, 2023.
January 5, 2023 |
Life is getting back to normal in Rawlins after several days. Two-feet of wet, heavy snow on top of already icy streets brought the city to a near standstill. City offices and facilities were closed on Monday and Tuesday. County offices also closed after city officials put a “no unnecessary travel advisory” into effect.
The city engineer said crews and machines have been on the job almost continuously to clean up during and after the prolonged weather event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Storm-Clean-up-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of snow management in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Neighbors have been helping neighbors dig out cars, driveways and sidewalks. Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey described the goodwill on display around the city this week as nothing short of amazing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Storm-Clean-up-2.mp3Public Information Officer Mira Miller said this week’s storm was one of the most impactful in recent memory. Miller said residents can help with the clean up by advising city hall of problem by calling public works at (307) 328-4599 during business hours or dispatch at night and on weekends. The dispatch number is (307) 328-4530.
The snow is not all bad news. After a dry summer and water restrictions in the city for most of the year, the snow is a welcome sight. The city engineer told council this week that the snow measuring site outside Rawlins is a good indicator of a better water year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Storm-Clean-up-3.mp3The forecast calls for a 48 percent chance of snow on Friday.
January 5, 2023 |
Senator John Barrasso said this week that President Joe Biden is reviving a federal effort abandoned under the Trump Administration to control Wyoming’s water.
WOTUS is back. The Environmental Protection Agency released its final rule regarding the definition, of “waters of the United States.” The WOTUS water grab first began under the Obama Administration.
Many states, including Wyoming, challenged the 2015 Rule because its expansive assertion of federal jurisdiction threatened to saddle them and their citizens with substantial costs and infringed their traditional sovereign authority over their lands and waters.
Senator Barrasso said in a statement that “President Biden is raising from the dead the failed policies of the Obama Administration.”
The EPA said in announcing the rule that is meant to protect people’s health and support economic opportunity.
Barrasso called the rule misguided. “Make no mistake, this isn’t about protecting America’s waterways – it’s about putting Washington in control of everything from ponds to potholes.”
The new rule is meant to replace Trump’s 2020 Navigable Water Protection Rule which was designed to allow Wyoming and to be its own “prime caretaker.” Governor Mark Gordon supported the rule and the Wyoming Attorney General’s Office joined 22 other states to intervene as a amicus curiae—or friends of the court—in a lawsuit brought by California and New York against the Trump rule.
Pictured above: File photo of the Upper North Platte River. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
January 5, 2023 |
In Saratoga, an almost entirely new governing body got down to business Tuesday night.
During the first Saratoga town council meeting of the year, the sitting council finished up their terms by addressing a few left-over financial items. Jon Nelson, D’Ron Campbell, Ron Hutchins and Creed James no longer head Saratoga’s government. Kathy Beck, who was appointed to Ben Spaulding’s seat in September will remain through the end of the term.
Creed James ended his two-year term as mayor by thanking his fellow councilmembers for their hard work and dedication. Afterwards, James invited the town’s new mayor, Chuck Davis, to take the oath of office.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Saratoga-Council-01.mp3Pictured above: Saratoga Town Council. Photo by Matthew Copeland.
Mayor Davis has an extensive law enforcement background, having worked for the Saratoga PD, and the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office, before ending his nearly 16-year career with the Wyoming Highway Patrol. Davis was also the mayor of Encampment, serving four, two-year terms.
1 of 5 Mayor Davis taking the oath of office. Photo by Matthew Copeland. Mayor Chuck Davis swearing in new Councilman Jerry Fluty. Photo by Matthew Copeland. Mayor Chuck Davis swearing in new Councilman Jacob Fluty. Photo by Matthew Copeland. Mayor Chuck Davis swearing in new Councilman Mike Cooley. Photo by Matthew Copeland. Saratoga Town Council. Photo by Matthew Copeland. Once Davis was sworn in as mayor, he swore in the new council members. Mike Cooley, Jerry Fluty and Jacob Fluty took turns reciting the oath of office before taking their seats.
Mayor Davis changed the town’s attorney. Gone is Jane France and, in her place, will be Kylie Waldrip. Davis said he will retain France for a while longer to finish the transfer of the Corbett Medical Building to Valley Village Childcare.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Saratoga-Council-02.mp3Mayor Davis asked the Valley Village board of directors’ vice-chairperson, Ellie Dana, to give him and the new council an update. Dana said she is very close to presenting the town with a finalized plan. The mayor expressed his support.
Dana is trying to make an agreement with the town to move her daycare into the Corbett Medical Building. When the North Platte Valley Medical Center opens later this year, the Platte Valley Clinic will move from the Corbett building into the hospital. The town owns the building, but years of deferred maintenance has left the structure unsuitable for use as a daycare.
Dana asked the town to bring the building up to code, at a cost of nearly $500,000. Instead, the Corbett Medical Foundation, who donated the building to Saratoga, has given the town permission to sell it to Dana for $1. Valley Village Childcare will be responsible for upgrading the structure to meet all state and federal guidelines.
Mike Cooley was chosen to be the first mayor pro-tem. Mayor Davis said he wanted to give each council member a chance to learn the duties of his office.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Saratoga-Council-03.mp3Each of Saratoga’s boards requires a liaison from the town council. Mayor Davis assigned himself to sit on the town hall, airport advisory, fire department, water and sewer joint powers board, and the police department, which Mayor Davis said he is legally required to hold. The mayor said he will also be on the planning and zoning commission until a new public works director is hired.
Councilwoman Beck will stay on the recreation commission and Platte Valley Community Center Joint Powers Board.
The public works board will have councilman Jerry Fluty.
Councilman Jacob Fluty will sit on the airport advisory and impact joint powers board with Mayor Davis, attending meetings when the mayor is unable.
The new mayor said former councilmember Jon Nelson has agreed to teach the new council members about the special purpose tax. The mayor assigned Mike Cooley to meet with Nelson.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Saratoga-Council-04.mp3Davis also hired a new police chief. Mayor Davis selected Mike Morris, the former county undersheriff for the job. Morris will take over for Ken Lehr. Mayor Davis said he used to work with Morris in the sheriff’s department. The mayor said he and the new council agreed the Saratoga PD needed new leadership.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Saratoga-Council-05.mp3The town clerk and treasurer also serve at the behest of the mayor. When asked why he hadn’t officially named anyone to either role, Mayor Davis said he needed more time to decide what course of action he wants to take.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0105_Saratoga-Council-06.mp3Judge Daniel Massey will continue to be the municipal court judge. He was not at January 3rd’s town council meeting, but Mayor Davis said Judge Massey accepted the position.
Mayor Chuck Davis ended his first town council meeting by telling the public he will be open and direct with them.
January 4, 2023 |
In November’s General Election, Tanya Lewman defeated Rawlins City Councilwoman Linda Smith by 102 votes. The final tally according to the official election results from the county clerk were Lewman 392 to Smith’s 290.
Lewman was not sworn-in last night as the Ward 2 council member. During the public hearing that opened Tuesday night’s meeting, Lewman said she would not be taking the oath because of campaign donation that came from a corporation and not an individual. The local company that donated the $300 check was Dirty Boyz Sanitation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Tanya-Lewman.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Several members of the public, supporters of Lewman, expressed their disappointment about the matter during the public comment session. Patrick Gonzales, for instance, said the matter should be decided by council in a special session. Gonzales referred to similar situation about six years ago where an empty seat was filled by a council vote.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Patrick-Gonzales.mp3City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade disagreed. Wade said the legal situation the city faces now is different than the one Gonzales referenced. The city attorney said the empty seat at the beginning of the term must be decided using state law as the guide.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Gwendolyn-Wade.mp3According to state law, anyone violating a provision of the Wyoming Campaign Practices Act may be guilty of a misdemeanor or a felony resulting in a fine, incarceration or both. Any corporation, person or organization violating contribution limits or acts is subject to civil penalties. Civil action may be brought by any person adversely affected by the transgression.
Councilwoman Smith remained seated during the early portion of the meeting and participated in several votes until the new council people were sworn in.
January 4, 2023 |
Garbage collection service is back to normal in Rawlins. City Council last night approved the trash hauler licenses for both Dirty Boyz Sanitation and Wyoming Waste Collections Inc.
City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade said Dirty Boyz had tendered a letter of commitment to haul trash to the city-owned solid waste transfer station. The absence of such a commitment was a deal breaker at the renewal vote on the December 20th meeting. The attorney said the company would also reimburse the city for tipping fees that were not paid when trash was hauled to Colorado from August to October last year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_License-Renewal.mp3Pictured above: A March 2019 file photo of Dirty Boyz trash receptacles in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
The votes to renew the licenses of both trash haulers were unanimous.
January 4, 2023 |
Communities across Wyoming are dealing with a lack of affordable housing. Governor Mark Gordon assembled a task force to develop solutions, while some Saratoga residents are pushing forward with ideas of their own.
Bryan Drake, the owner of Triple D Construction has a plan to address the town’s lack of entry-level and lower-priced homes. Drake explained how he would like to build houses that working class people could afford.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Affordable-Housing-1.mp3Pictured above: Pictured above: Possible floor plans for affordable housing options from Triple D Construction. Photo by Matt Copeland.
New residents of the town can easily find themselves priced out of buying a home. Drake said the affordable houses he proposes building will be a better alternative than renting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Affordable-Housing-2.mp3Planning commission member Theresa Manley is part of Governor Gordon’s task force. She is working to create legislation to address blighted properties in town.
Using federal and state funding, Drake said the town could purchase distressed land and demolish any derelict structures. Afterwards, he would build brand new homes on the properties.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Affordable-Housing-3.mp3Abandoned and distressed properties are a problem throughout the county. Medicine Bow is amending the town’s ordinances to make it less expensive for people to purchase tax delinquent properties, by limiting the amount of unpaid utility fees buyers must pay. Triple D Construction’s owner sees demolishing vacant structures and building new homes to increase Saratoga’s tax and utility payment base. Drake also said short term rentals are taking lower priced homes off the market.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Affordable-Housing-4.mp3Under the legislation Governor Gordon’s task force is proposing, towns or counties would identify properties as in distress, in violation of building codes, or tax delinquent.
Once the property is labeled, local government officials would need to contact the owner to find out if the town can buy the land. If the landowner is deceased and no inheritor can be found, the town could take ownership of the property by condemning it. Drake said he wants to have the town decide which lots they want to turn into affordable housing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Affordable-Housing-5.mp3Drake said he has talked with people from across the county about the need for low-cost homes. He said everyone agrees it is a good idea. However, the construction company owner said he feels like people support the project until it comes to time take action.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Affordable-Housing-6.mp3The initiative is very new. As of the writing of this story, no legalization has been brought to the state government. The governor’s task force is reviewing similar laws from neighboring states to see how they could be modified to fit Wyoming’s needs.
The Triple D Construction owner said he gives permission for everyone to steal his idea. He said he just wants to see it happen.
January 4, 2023 |
In Washington, D.C., newly elected congresswoman Harriett Hageman was not one of the 20 Republicans who voted for someone other than Kevin McCarthy to be the next speaker of the House.
When the House reading clerk called her name, Hageman cast her vote for McCarthy to lead the chamber.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Hageman-vote.mp3The vote was Hageman’s first after being sworn into replace Liz Cheney and Republicans retook control of the lower chamber of Congress. McCarthy’s fate is still undecided, though. The House adjourned Monday without selecting a new speaker to replace Nancy Pelosi. McCarthy, who is the GOP conference’s nominee, was thwarted by a band of conservatives who seek to derail his nomination. Florida’s Matt Gaetz led the charge Monday. With Hageman sitting behind him on the Republican side of the aisle, Gaetz nominated Jim Jordan of Ohio.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Matt-Gaetz.mp3Jordan himself nominated McCarthy.
After three separate votes Tuesday, the House abruptly adjourned at 5 p.m. after three failed attempts to elect a speaker. McCarthy needs 218 votes to become speaker. Republicans will seat 222 lawmakers, so McCarthy can leave only four GOP minds unchanged. He won 202 votes on the third round, one less than in the first two rounds of voting. The California Republican said he’s not giving up the fight to win the gavel.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Kevin-McCarthy.mp3The last time the vote for a new speaker went past the first ballot was 100 years ago, in 1923. No work can be done in the House until a speaker is elected. Under House rules, they will just keep voting until someone gets a majority. In the ante-bellum year of 1855, the process took two months.
January 4, 2023 |
The Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust set aside another 1,000 acres against future development.
Joe Kaspar, owner of the Little Jack Creek Ranch, west of Saratoga, has donated 1,019 acres of his land to the Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust. WSGLT Executive Director Jessica Crowder explained why her organization was interested in preserving the property.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Land-Acquisition-1.mp3The WSGLT works with ranchers to prevent their land from being split apart and sold to developers. They do this by having the Land Trust hold the deed to the property through conservation easements. The WSGLT has an “agricultural conservation easement” on the Little Jack Creek Ranch. Crowder said this specific type of agreement limits the land to ranching and farming.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Land-Acquisition-2.mp3Crowder said her organization is interested in preserving the natural beauty of the state. The Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust executive director said setting aside the Little Jack Creek Ranch benefits more than just agriculture.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Land-Acquisition-3.mp3Landowners may also receive monetary incentives when donating their property to the Stock Growers Land Trust. The WSGLT will pay the owner up to 75 percent of the value of the land. Tax credits are available. Speaking to Bigfoot 99 during their August 2022 Annual Roundup BBQ and Fundraiser, Crowder explained how the land must be given to the Trust forever in order for the owner to legally apply for any credits.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Land-Acquisition-4.mp3The Little Jack Creek Ranch adds another 1,000 plus acres of land under the protection of the WSGLT. According to its website, the Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust has set aside nearly 300,000 acres of property using 117 easements.
Crowder said the process for each easement differs, but landowners can except to wait about a year before the WSGLT takes possession of the land. The executive director said the Land Trust doesn’t actively petition ranchers to donate their land. Property owners approach the organization themselves.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0104_Land-Acquisition-5.mp3Bigfoot 99 was unable to contact Joe Kaspar for a statement.
January 3, 2023 |
In Rawlins, the city’s two trash haulers are back at work Tuesday collecting garbage from their customers, at least for now.
Rawlins City Council, in a hastily called emergency meeting Monday evening, granted both Dirty Boyz Sanitation and Wyoming Waste Systems a 24-hour temporary hauling license. At its December 20th meeting, council voted not to deny a one-year renewal for the two haulers.
Both license renewals are on the agenda for tonight’s regular council meeting.
Council denied Wyoming Waste because it failed to submit a required fee by the December 1st deadline. The dispute between the governing body and Dirty Boyz is more complicated and involves the company hauling waste out-of-town in defiance of city ordinances to a landfill in Colorado under the pretense that they are carrying “recyclables.”
As Bigfoot 99 reported previously, the ultimate resolution between Dirty Boyz and the city between will come down to a judicial ruling on the definition of “recyclable” material.
Dirty Boyz acknowledged in a letter to the city that between August and October that it transported waste to a landfill in Erie, Colorado. In the letter, the company representative said it was using a new definition of waste, namely that garbage is a “commodity.” Later the company claimed the solid waste consisted of “recyclables.” By ordinance, trash haulers are required to take solid waste to the city owned transfer station and pay the tipping fees there. Instead, tipping fees were paid to the facility in northern Colorado.
The company’s reasoning is that as the material decomposes, the naturally occurring byproduct of methane gas cane be extracted, captured and used as an alternative energy source.
At Monday night’s emergency meeting Councilman Chris Weisenberg challenged the definition of recyclables that Dirty Boyz is using in apparent violation of the city’s definition of “solid waste” in Chapter 8 of city code.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Emergency-Meeting-1.mp3The Environmental Protection Agency does not use the term recyclable, either, in its Landfill Methane Outreach Program website, which lays out “Basic Information about Landfill Gas.” The widely used term for the process is “waste-to-energy.”
The attorney for Dirty Boyz, Amy Bach, agreed in general terms with Councilman Weisenberg. The definition of recyclables is not clear and will likely be decided by a court.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Emergency-Meeting-2.mp3The attorney’s comments essentially tee-up the basic framework for a legal challenge that is likely to come from the dispute.
Mayor Terry Weickum said the company’s recycling argument doesn’t add up, given that the round-trip distance between Rawlins and the landfill in Colorado is about 332 miles.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Emergency-Meeting-3.mp3Mayor Weickum also explained why he voted “no” on the motion to renew the Dirty Boyz’ trash hauling license at the December 20th meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Emergency-Meeting-4.mp3The motion to renew the Dirty Boyz trash hauling license failed at the last meeting on a 4-2 vote.
The license renewal for Dirty Boyz and Wyoming Waste will be back before the council tonight after new members are sworn in at the beginning the meeting. Tonight’s council meeting starts at 7:30 p.m.
January 3, 2023 |
In Rawlins, a “No Unnecessary Travel Advisory” has been extended through Tuesday afternoon. City crews from multiple divisions are involved with snow removal efforts. Winds and icy conditions are making the work challenging. At 1 p.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service reported that Rawlins had been pounded with 24-inches of snow, making removal efforts difficult at best.
The motoring public is asked to limit travel today as much as possible and to drive as carefully as possible if you have to go somewhere.
As part of the effort to keep vehicles off the street, many city-operated facilities are closed today, including City Hall, Public Works/Community Development, Animal Shelter, Landfill, Recycling Center, Business Innovation Hub, Rawlins Family Recreation Center, Indoor Shooting Range and the Rochelle Ranch Golf Pro Shop.
Carbon County offices are also closed today. The County Commissioners meeting has been rescheduled to Thursday.
Pictured above: File photo of snow management in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
January 3, 2023 |
Governor Mark Gordon was sworn into a second term in office on Monday in the Rotunda of the State Capital Building in Cheyenne.
The governor promised to continue fighting for Wyoming values during the next four years. He also called on citizens set aside political differences to work together with respect to build the state’s future.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Gov-Gordon-1.mp3Pictured above: Photo courtesy of the Office of Mark Gordon.
The governor said we are at a moment in history “when we must come together.” He recounted a time a century ago when the country was as divided as it is now. Then-President Teddy Roosevelt addressed a crowd in Cheyenne in 1903 that included veterans from both sides of the Civil War.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Gov-Gordon-2.mp3The governor concluded the speech saying that Wyoming’s time is now. He stressed the importance of the next few years and its impact on future generations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Gov-Gordon-3.mp3The governor along with Secretary of State Chuck Gray, Auditor Kristi Racines, Treasurer Curt Meier, and Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder, was sworn in by Wyoming Chief Justice Kate Fox during a public ceremony held in the Capitol Rotunda. Gordon’s full speech is available online at governor.wyo.gov.
January 3, 2023 |
Saratoga resident Tom Arthur has changed his plea to guilty in a high-profile poaching case.
Arthur, owner of the Upper Cedar Creek Ranch, and Joseph Johnston, the ranch manager, both face charges from early September for their parts in intentionally taking an antlered big game animal out of season. Arthur initially pleaded not guilty to the charge.
As a Wyoming rancher, Arthur is eligible for a landowner hunting license, enabling him to take game animals on his property without going through the usual, competitive, licensing process. Wyoming Landowners with over 160-acres are issued two hunting licenses, per species, each year if they can prove their property provides so many wildlife grazing days per year. Landowner license holders must abide by all hunting regulations.
The Saratoga game warden cited Arthur with using a rifle during bow season to kill an antlered deer. Poaching is a serious crime with fines ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 and a loss of hunting privileges for no less than five years in multiple states, not just Wyoming.
Arthur and his attorneys have met with Carbon County prosecutors three times for out-of-court settlement conferences, with the final time occurring on December 27th.
Arthur originally pled “not guilty” to the charge. Carbon County Circuit Court Deputy Clerk Annette Green said Arthur has changed his plea.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Poaching-Case.mp3Pictured above: File photo of a mule deer.
Joseph Johnston, an employee of Arthur’s ranch, was charged as an accessory after the fact on the same day. Johnston has a settlement conference with county prosecutors on January 10th at 8:30 a.m.
January 3, 2023 |
Chuck Davis will be sworn in as Saratoga’s new mayor at the beginning of tonight’s town council meeting. Davis will inherit a number of issues as he settles into his four-year term.
Davis received more than 64 percent of the mayoral votes in town, beating his opponent, D’Ron Campbell. Campbell, along with fellow council members Jon Nelson and Ron Hutchins, will leave office after tonight’s swearing-in ceremony. The new council members will be Jerry Fluty, Jacob Fluty and Michael Cooley. Kathy Beck, who was appointed to Ben Spaulding’s seat, will be the only council person to remain into 2023.
Mayor-Elect Davis is no stranger to governing over a small town. He served four, two-year terms as mayor of Encampment.
Saratoga’s new mayor spoke with Bigfoot 99 about what he hopes to achieve in office. Davis said he would like to improve communication between the town’s departments and boards.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Saratoga-Mayor-Elect-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Saratoga Town Hall/Police Department. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
The town has been in a 13-year legal battle with Randy Stevens over a town-owned alleyway between his property and the Natural Resources Conservation property to the south on Cyprus Avenue. The town sued Stevens in 2009 alleging he was digging beneath the alleyway, compromising the integrity of the ground above. According to the terms of judicial ruling, the town is responsible for maintaining a barrier along the southern edge of Stevens’ land, preventing further erosion of the cliff-like ledge dug under the alleyway. The barrier is failing, and the town has been trying to work out a permanent solution with Stevens and his attorneys.
Last September, the Saratoga Town Council held a special workshop to discuss three engineering designs they would present to Stevens. Price is an issue, and the town expects Stevens to cover some of the cost of whichever plan he agrees to. There has been very little new information about the case since the September workshop. Mayor-elect Davis said he doesn’t know much more than what was publicly disclosed, but he will learn about the matter after he is officially sworn in as mayor.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Saratoga-Mayor-Elect-2.mp3Where the negotiations stand between the town and the private property owner is not publicly known as Davis begins his term as mayor. The outgoing administration has revealed very little information about the legal dispute in its failed efforts to resolve the matter out of court.
Another item Davis and his new council will have to handle is finalizing the public works director’s job duties. In December, the current council met with the incoming members to discuss whether the duties of the public works director should be combined with the long-vacant position of planning and zoning officer. The town’s previous Public Works Director Jon Winter was responsible for writing state funding grants for large projects. Discussion at last month’s workshop indicated that grant duties may be turned over to third-party engineering firms. Also discussed was whether the public works director should issue building permits and ensure contractors stay in compliance with town ordinances or physically work in the field with town employees. Davis said he look for guidance from the long-time employees in the public works department.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Saratoga-Mayor-Elect-3.mp3Mayor-elect Davis said he will hold meetings the second week of January to discuss governmental matters. During that time, he said his council would decide how the public works director’s job duties would change.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Saratoga-Mayor-Elect-4.mp3The exiting town council has delayed approval of several large projects, leaving the decisions to Davis and his council. The town has been in talks with Valley Village Childcare about the company taking over the Corbett Medical Building on South River Street. Years of deferred maintenance has left the structure unsuitable for use as a daycare. Bringing the building up to state and federal standards would cost the town around $500,000. The Corbett Medical Foundation, which donated the building to the town, has agreed to allow Valley Village to purchase the clinic building for $1. Mayor Davis said he supports the sale of the building.
Another large project the new council will decide on is the proposed Platte Valley Aquatic Center. Attorney Nick Haderlie has been working with investors to construct a multi-million dollar indoor water sports complex in town.
Haderlie asked the council to draft a 50-year lease for town owned land to build the aquatic center. If Haderlie is able to raise the necessary funding to pay for the construction, he would need the town to dissolve the recreation department and funnel that money into the non-profit responsible for operating the pool complex. Mayor-elect Davis said he needs to hear more about the project before making a decision.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/0103_Saratoga-Mayor-Elect-5.mp3Davis said he plans to give the public a closer look at how the town makes decisions and spends money.
December 23, 2022 |
The emergency medical technician from Saratoga killed early Wednesday morning was not the only first responder who died this week in the line of duty.
Bruce LangFlags are at half-mast in Wyoming today at the order for Governor Mark Gordon. The governor ordered both the U.S. and State of Wyoming flag be flown at half-staff statewide today, Friday, December 23, in honor and memory of Bruce Lang, a volunteer firefighter and training officer with the Pine Haven Volunteer Fire Department.
Lang died Thursday when the utility task vehicle he was riding on plunged into open water while he was attempting to assist another individual who had fallen through ice on Keyhole Reservoir.
In his statement, the governor also acknowledged the loss of 29-year-old Tyeler Harris, who was struck and killed by a passing semi-truck while responding to a crash with injuries on Interstate 80 west of Rawlins early Wednesday.
The governor said flags will be lowered in honor of the EMT at a later date.
“These tragedies are a reminder of the risks that accompany the selfless commitment of first responders in our state, who are all deeply committed to serving their fellow citizens,” Governor Gordon added.
Harris, who lived in Saratoga, leaves behind his wife Ashley and three young children. His family is asking for help paying for a funeral and making sure the kids have everything they need.
A cousin of Tyeler’s set up GoFundMe page to help with expenses. After less than eight hours online yesterday, $25,000 had been raised.
An account for the family has also been established at the Bank of Commerce in Rawlins.
Tyeler Harris and his family. Photo from the GoFundMe page set up for the Harris family.
December 23, 2022 |
Drivers in Saratoga may have to put up with orange warning barrels and road construction signs—with no sign of actual work—throughout the winter.
Saratoga officials say they are disappointed by the lack of work by the contractor they hired to do the water pipeline and road paving project on Spring Avenue this year. Work has come to an end construction crews have left town for the duration of winter.
During Tuesday’s Saratoga Town Council meeting, Councilman Jon Nelson said the Impact Joint Powers Board received complaints from townspeople about the condition of the road surface along West Spring Avenue.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Contractor-Letter-01.mp3Pictured above: Spring Avenue bore pit. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
Lewis and Lewis of Rock Springs was hired by to replace aging water pipes under Spring Avenue. After the old pipes were replaced, the contractor was to the streets. The job was contracted to be completed by October 31st. Multiple setbacks and delays resulted in the job not being finished on time. Not all the pipes were placed. None of the streets have been repaved.
Representatives from Lewis and Lewis asked the town council to allow them to leave for the winter without incurring daily fines, called liquidated damages. Built into the agreement, LD’s are a financial penalty assessed for every day past the contracted completion date. Lewis and Lewis missed both their substantial completion date of October 15th and final completion on the 31st. Liquidated Damages of $1,000 a day began on the 15th and increased by $750 daily when the project wasn’t finished by Halloween. A signed letter of intent presented to the contractor stated that LD’s would not stop even if weather caused the job to go over the allowed time.
The contractors presented the town with several options for how they could handle the winter shutdown. If the town altered their agreement to allow the contractors to leave without being charged LD’s for the winter, Lewis and Lewis promised to open the unpaved streets and make them passable by laying crushed asphalt. If the town chose to hold them to the contract, Lewis and Lewis said they would leave the roads closed to prevent a buildup of underground frost. The frozen ground would delay the contractors even more when they returned to complete the project in the spring.
At the December 6th town council meeting, the sitting council, taking advice from the Impact Joint Powers Board and incoming council members, chose not to amend the contract. With LD’s being charged all winter, Lewis and Lewis packed up and left for the season. The contractors said they would have an employee periodically check on the unfinished roads to make sure local traffic could still pass.
Councilman Nelson said the Joint Powers Board felt Lewis and Lewis was not holding up their end of the contract. He asked Mayor Creed James to sign a letter addressed to the contractors asking them to take better care of the roads.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Contractor-Letter-02.mp3Councilman Nelson said the Impact JPB contacted Josh Morris, from T-O Engineering, to draft the message to Lewis and Lewis. Mayor James read the letter at Tuesday’s town council meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Contractor-Letter-03.mp3Under the terms of the contract, Lewis and Lewis is still responsible for maintaining the unfinished road surfaces until the project is complete. The Saratoga Town Council voted to sign the letter and send it to the contractors.
December 23, 2022 |
Wyoming Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis were both “no” votes $1.7 trillion omnibus spending package that passed the upper chamber Thursday. The package included $45 billion in military and economic aid for Ukraine.
The spending package also included $410 million in border security in countries other than the United States, including Egypt, Jordan, Tunisia, Oman and Lebanon.
Other remarkable examples of pork and vanity spending are $3.6 million for the Michelle Obama Trail, a flat, three-mile walking path in Georgia. Another $3 million in spending is tagged for an LGBTQ museum in New York, $200 million in gender equality in places like Pakistan. Also included in the bill is not less than $575,000 in spending on “family planning/reproductive health, including in areas where population growth threatens biodiversity or endangered species.”
The bill is 4,115 pages. Stacked up, it stands about three feet high. Utah Senator Mike Lee characterized it as extortion.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Sen-Mike-Lee.mp3Pictured above: Photos of the omnibus spending package, courtesy Cynthia Lummis/Instagram.
Only 18 Republicans voted for the bill, including Mitt Romney, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski. The bill passed 68-29 with all Senate Democrats voting for it.
December 22, 2022 |
An early morning crash on I-80 Wednesday morning resulted in the death of a local emergency medical responder and serious injuries to another.
While responding to a two-vehicle crash on I-80 early Wednesday morning, two Memorial Hospital of Carbon County EMTs were struck by a semi-truck. One of the emergency responders was fatally injured. The other was transported to Cheyenne where she was listed in in critical condition.
The crash occurred around 4:15 a.m. at milepost 197 while the EMTs responded to an initial crash involving injuries. According to a release from Lt. Kyle McKay with the Wyoming Highway patrol, after arriving at the scene, a 2019 Freightliner semi-tractor with trailer struck the two EMTs and collided with the rear of an ambulance.
Doug McGee is the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s public affairs officer. McGee confirmed a motor vehicle crash caused the westbound lanes of Interstate 80 to be shut down.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Fatal-EMT-Crash-01.mp3Photo courtesy WYDOT District 1 – Southeast Wyoming.
The initial crash occurred shortly before 4:00 a.m. The Wyoming Highway Patrol was notified of a two-vehicle crash involving a semi-tractor with trailer and a pickup truck pulling a small enclosed trailer. Lt. McKay described the event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Fatal-EMT-Crash-02.mp3Memorial Hospital of Carbon County EMTs quickly arrived on the scene. Approximately 20 minutes after the crash, the EMTs were attending to the victims when a tractor trailer crashed into the responders. Lt. McKay said one of the first responders was killed and the other was seriously injured.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Fatal-EMT-Crash-03.mp3Memorial Hospital of Carbon County EMT Tyeler Harris of Saratoga was killed when he was struck by the semi. Lt. McKay said the cause of the incident is under investigation, but Wyoming Highway Patrol believes the driver, who is from New York state, was not paying attention when he struck the emergency vehicle.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Fatal-EMT-Crash-04.mp3Harris responded to the crash as an EMT for Memorial Hospital of Carbon County. A press release from Stephanie Hinkle, the marketing, communications, and foundation director of MHCC expressed her condolences to the families of the medics. It also states the hospital is working closely with law enforcement.
Harris also volunteered for South-Central Wyoming Emergency Medical Services. SCWEMS Director Stayton Mosby said Harris joined the service last year. Mosby had nothing but praise for the medic.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Fatal-EMT-Crash-05.mp3Tyeler Harris is survived by his wife and three children.
Sources familiar with what happened told Bigfoot 99 the other EMT injured in the incident was Tiffany Gruetzmacher from Rawlins. She works as an EMT supervisor at MHCC with Harris. The extent of her injuries is unknown at this time, but sources said she was transported to Cheyenne Regional Medical Center.
The driver of the tractor-trailer that crashed into the original incident scene has been identified as Saviol Saint Gean, of Brooklyn, NY. Driver inattention is being investigated as a possible contributing factor of the crash.
December 22, 2022 |
During the public comment section of the Rawlins City Council meeting Tuesday night, a local resident raised concerns and questions about the kill-off of ravens at the municipal landfill over the weekend. The cull was conducted by USDA Wildlife Services at the request of the city to reduce the population of the scavenger birds. The kill-off was scheduled but not announced.
Christine Cruze, like many residents who discovered dead birds in her yard, was alarmed by the incident.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Dead-Ravens-1.mp3A group of ravens is commonly referred to as an “unkindness” because of the birds’ reputation of expelling their young from nests before they are developed enough to fend for themselves.
Many of the ravens targeted in last week’s kill-off died on private properties after being poisoned with DRC-1339 set up in baits at the landfill. Residents discovered the dead birds and had no clue about what to do.
Cruze questioned how the city could be compliant with rules and regulations regarding the culling of the ravens to stem their population if no public announcement was made before it happened or if other, non-lethal measures, were attempted first.
Cruze described herself as a hunter and a conservationist who understood the reason behind the culling. The ravens themselves present their own set of risks to people and livestock. However, Cruze said she the problem could have been dealt in other ways.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Dead-Ravens-2.mp3A 2001 study of the starlicide conducted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln does is acknowledge that while it is possible that a cat or owl could ingest a lethal dose of DRC-1339, it likely would only happen if they were fed birds poisoned by the compound exclusively for more than 100 days. The actual risk, the study concludes, is normally minimal because exposure to DRC1339-poisoned birds occurs over a few weeks or less.
The study also states that to reduce any potential hazard, poisoned birds should be retrieved then burned or buried whenever possible.
Cruz concluded her four-minute, researched presentation with a series of questions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Dead-Ravens-3.mp3Council typically does not address presenters during the public comment portion of meetings. The topic did come later. Councilman Chris Weisenberg said he was as unaware as anyone of the culling.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Dead-Ravens-4.mp3City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade took responsibility for how last weekend’s culling played out.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Dead-Ravens-5.mp3City staff told Bigfoot 99 in response to a written question that Rawlins has previously requested USDA Wildlife Services to conduct common raven control work at the landfill. This has included both non-lethal and non-lethal methods as part of an integrated wildlife damage management approach.
The use of the avicide DR-1339 is highly controlled. Applications are ony authorized between October and April each year.
Handling is restricted to USDA personnel trained in bird control due to its high acute inhalation toxicity and eye and skin corrosiveness to eye and skin corrosiveness in its raw, powdered form. Directions for use include wearing personal protective equipment to collect carcasses to reduce the potential for exposure. Land managers are directed to clean up carcasses and dying birds within 72 hours of application.
Raven population control actions at the landfill are anticipated to continue through January.
December 22, 2022 |
The Town of Saratoga has a new website.
During Tuesday night’s town council meeting, Town Clerk Marie Christen unveiled Saratoga’s new website. While the new site is officially online, Christen said there are still some technical shortcomings to iron out.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Saratoga-Website-01.mp3Christen has been working on the town’s website since March of 2021. Last October, the town clerk said she was reformatting existing documents to make them compatible with the new site. With that work finished, the town clerk described the features of the town’s webpage.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Saratoga-Website-02.mp3Saratoga’s updated site features large buttons for various functions over a backdrop of a rainbow trout. There are tabs to access the different boards and departments running along the top of the page.
Councilwoman Kathy Beck asked Christen if department heads, such as the town’s recreation director, Sarah Laughlin, would be able to update the website. The town clerk said she’s still unsure of what is possible on the new webpage, but Laughlin should be able to alter the site on her own.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Saratoga-Website-03.mp3Saratoga’s town clerk said she has an instruction manual which explains how the new site works. She said she will provide this booklet to the department directors so everyone is on the same page. Using Laughlin as an example, Councilwoman Beck confirmed with Christen that other town officials would be able to make changes to the website.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1222_Saratoga-Website-04.mp3The updated Saratoga website can be found at www.townofsaratoga.org. The new site retains the same functionality as the former, such as paying bills online, but with a flashy new layout.
December 21, 2022 |
A massive weather system gripping much of the nation will move into south central Wyoming later today, bringing snow, wind and dangerously cold temperatures.
High wind warnings, winter weather advisories and winter storm warning are all part of the scenario as the storm in two weeks slams into Carbon County. The coldest air mass in several decades, combined with wind, will produce windchill temperatures well below -45.
Steps should be taken to limit exposure to the cold air. Frostbite can develop within minutes when unprotected portions of the body are exposed to extreme cold wind chills.
Wind chill temperatures at Rawlins and other portions of Carbon County are expected to hit -20 by noon today and fall from there. By midnight, the National Weather Service expects wind chill temperatures in Carbon County to be around -40.
Throughout the day Thursday, wind chill temperatures will hover in the -30 to -35 range. Relief is on the way Friday into Saturday as temperatures are expected rebound.
The only good news is that the forecasted snow amounts for Rawlins and Saratoga are in the 1-2 inch range. Arlington and portions of the Interstate 80 corridor may soon 2-3 inches, according to the National Weather Service in Cheyenne.
More snowfall in expected at higher elevations in the Snowy Range and Sierra Madres.
Our snowfall could come in bursts. Snow squalls are expected in Carbon County from 1 p.m. through 8 p.m. Snowfall is expected to taper off late tonight into early Thursday. Local drifting and blowing snow may limit visibility and create for hazardous conditions on roadways. Travelers and livestock interests should take precautions. The changes in weather and road conditions today are expected to be fast and brutal.
The storm will produce one of the coldest Christmases on record for some parts of the country. Youtube personality and American meteorological analyst Ryan Hall, known as Ryan Hall Y’all, breaks down what’s happening.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Ryan-Hall.mp3Pictured above: File photo of winter weather in Carbon County. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Hall said the storm could shift east or west depending on conditions.
Across the western U.S, the heaviest snowfall amounts are expected in the higher terrain of the Cascades and into northern Idaho, northwest Montana and western Wyoming, the National Weather Service said, adding: “These regions will have the best chances for over a foot of snow.”
December 21, 2022 |
As a result of the pending weather impacts, Rawlins officials to urge citizens to take precautions to prevent their pipes from freezing. The advice is good for anyone.
The subzero temperatures have the potential to cause damage to uninsulated or under insulated water pipes. With temperatures dipping below minus 20 degrees, Mike O’Brien with the city’s water department recommends Carbon County residents ensure their pipes are properly protected.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Cold-Weather-Tips1.mp3O’Brien said the best protection for exposed pipes is heat tape. With this, an electrically heated wire is physically in contact with the pipes, preventing freezing. Residents should be able to find heat tape at their local hardware store. Most types of heat tape are self-regulating, increasing output when temperatures are low and shutting off when not needed. O’Brien said to check on your circuit breakers after installing the thermal protection.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Cold-Weather-Tips-2.mp3Pictured: File photo of Cedar Street and Airport Road in Rawlins.
Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
O’Brien offered another solution in case someone is unable to purchase and install protection on their pipes before the temperature plummets. The Rawlins utilities supervisor suggested maintaining a constant trickle of cold water through your facets.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Cold-Weather-Tips-3.mp3For those who rely on diesel heat to warm their homes, the extreme cold may cause the heating oil to freeze, blocking filters and starving the system of fuel. O’Brien said, with temperatures predicted to drop below minus 20, homeowners should consider an anti-gelling fuel additive.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Cold-Weather-Tips-4.mp3O’Brien recommends people ensure their pipes are protected before the unseasonably cold weather arrives. If someone’s pipes freeze, they aren’t left with many options. The utilities division technician said trying to thaw your pipes during the sub-zero temperatures will put you in danger.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Cold-Weather-Tips-5.mp3Being a former firefighter, O’Brien strongly recommends against unsupervised space heaters under your home. He said the wind could knock a heater down, making it a fire hazard.
With the recent water rate hikes in Rawlins, residents may balk at the idea of letting their water run. O’Brien acknowledged the added cost of protecting your pipes. The Rawlins utility supervisor said paying for extra water or electricity beats the alternative.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Cold-Weather-Tips-6.mp3O’Brien added that residents should always be vigilant in protecting their pipes, even during typical winter weather. Rawlins public information officer, Mira Miller echoed O’Brien’s concerns.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Cold-Weather-Tips-7.mp3To prevent catastrophic water line failures, Rawlins city officials are urging residents to protect their pipes against the forecasted dangerously low temperatures.
December 21, 2022 |
The City of Rawlins will pursue more grant opportunities in early 2023. City Grant Writer Andrea Hammond told council last night that three grant opportunities that recently came available, two of which are for affordable housing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Rawlins-Grants-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Hammond also said that the ARPA 3 grants for water funds were announced by the state yesterday. After the disappointment of losing out on the last round of ARPA grant funding, Hammond said the city is can score high on the point system the State Loan and Investment Board uses to award the federal American Recovery Plan Act funding.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Rawlins-Grants-2.mp3Hammond said the city’s application would focus on parts of Phase 2 of the water infrastructure improvement, including the spring boxes in the Beaver Springs and Sage Spring areas. The improvements would help collect more water from the two springs area to augment the city’s water supply.
Hammond said she would be back before council at the next meeting to seek approval to apply for the grant.
December 21, 2022 |
In Rawlins, between the cold weather and hard work of the local hockey team, public works, the rec department and local firefighters, the city ice skating rink may open in time for Christmas.
Rawlins Parks and Recreation Center Director Jason Sehon update council last night on recent efforts to get the rink ready. Sehon said two applications of water were applied this week, the first on Monday and the second yesterday. The ice is holding, Sehon said.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Ice-Skating-Rink.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins Recreation Center. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
The outdoor ice skating rink is located across from the Rawlins Family Recreation Center.
December 21, 2022 |
Tim Niklas loves to ski. He loves to write about it, too.
The director the Grand Encampment Museum just published his second book on the subject. It’s title Copper Mountain Resort: 50 Years of Fortitude. Published in 2014, his first non-fiction book focused on another ski town. Winter Park Resort: 75 Years of Imagining More was recognized by the International Skiing History Association with a Skade award.
Nicklas said he was hired by a boutique publishing firm to write a history of the town of Winter Park and the resort located there. Nicklas said his familiarity with the resort town made him uniquely qualified to write his first book.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Ski-Book-1.mp3Pictured above: Photo courtesy Copper Mountain.
Even with access to the town’s archives, and help from other historians, Nicklas said it still took him two and a half years to write his Winter Park history book. The GEM director gave some information about the founding of the town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Ski-Book-2.mp3Nicklas said the resort attracted skiers to the area. In the 1940’s the US Forest Service was exploring new sites for ski resorts to ease the congestion of places like Berthoud Pass. The GEM director explained how the Forest Service and Denver, Colorado, officials teamed up to found the town of Winter Park.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Ski-Book-3.mp3Nicklas’ new book covers the history of another Colorado resort town, Copper Mountain. Located 80 miles West of Denver, Copper Mountain was founded in 1972 as the future site for the downhill skiing events of the 1976 Olympic Games. The GEM Director said, after the town was established, the Denver Winter Olympics were canceled.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Ski-Book-4.mp32022 marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Copper Mountain Resort. With funding provided by the resort, Nicklas’ book needed to be finished in time to correspond with its half-century celebration. The GEM Director said he had far less time to put his newest book together.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Ski-Book-5.mp3Nicklas split his time between running the Grand Encampment Museum and researching and writing the book. As well as sifting through decades of archived photographs, Nicklas conducted interviews. The GEM Director said he spoke to the former and current owners of the resort, but didn’t focus entirely on people in high up positions.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Ski-Book-6.mp3Nicklas’ second ski history book, Copper Mountain: 50 Years of Fortitude was released on November 14th. It has been nominated for another International Skiing History Association award. The book is only available to purchase at the Copper Mountain Resort, but the GEM rector said he would like to have copies in his museum’s gift shop.Nicklas said he wasn’t done writing about the history of skiing. He said he would like to widen his focus to cover the entire county where he was raised.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1221_Ski-Book-7.mp3The Grand Encampment Museum Director said he is fascinated by pictures of old skiers because they are always smiling. In a time when no one smiled in photographs, Nicklas said skiing brought joy to people back then just like it does today.
December 20, 2022 |
Dead birds found in Rawlins over the last weekend were part of a scheduled but largely unannounced raven culling.
Rawlins residents expressed frustration in online videos and social media posts after finding dead black birds on their properties. The birds were poisoned by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to reduce the population of common ravens at the landfill. A lack of communication and uncertainty over how residual toxins in the birds would affect pets prompted concerns among resident which they took to city officials.
Rawlins public information officer, Mira Miller, offered the city’s official statement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Raven-Cull-1.mp3Mike Burrell with Fish and Wildlife Service explained why the birds converging on the landfill posed a public health and safety risk.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Raven-Cull-2.mp3Common ravens can carry diseases like the West Nile Virus. When a mosquito bites an infected bird, it can transmit the virus to humans. Ravens have also been known to attack livestock and other protected species, like Sage Grouse. Burrell said his agency is permitted to kill a few hundred birds each year to diminish the harm they cause.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Raven-Cull-3.mp3Burrell said when a municipality finds raven populations grow too large, USDA wildlife services is used to cull the birds. Using an avicide, wildlife services officials can quickly reduce the number of ravens in a given area. Burrell said the toxin used is harmless to other animals.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Raven-Cull-4.mp3The avicide, called DRC-1339, works by attacking the kidneys of pest birds, such as pigeons, crows, and ravens. According to a USDA study done at the University of Nebraska, the toxin has little to no effect on other bird species or mammals. Burrell said the specific toxin used in the raven kill-off was chosen to avoid unintended deaths in other species.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Raven-Cull-5.mp3Rawlins residents said they were shocked to find groups of dead ravens in their yards. Burrell said, once the toxin begins to take effect, the birds will seek out shelter. In Rawlins, the number of shelter options is limited, causing birds to congregate in one area.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Raven-Cull-6.mp3Citizens who found deceased birds on their property said they were upset the city didn’t warn them of the USDA’s intention to kill ravens at the landfill. Burrell said municipalities are responsible for calling wildlife services and requesting them to intervein when unwanted bird populations are too high. Burrell said his department typically informs multiple agencies before they administer the avicide.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Raven-Cull-7.mp3It is unclear why Rawlins residents weren’t informed of the planned landfill culling before it took place.
For more information, or questions regarding disposal of the dead birds, residents are being asked to contact their local USDA wildlife services representative, Luke Spanbauer, at 307-710-1498.
December 20, 2022 |
Saratoga’s ice-skating rink draws large crowds at the new location.
Reestablishing a tradition from years past, each winter, the Platte Valley Kiwanis Club has been building a small ice rink for Saratoga residents to enjoy.
In the early 2000’s, Saratoga had a makeshift skating rink on Veteran’s Island until concerns over flooding caused the town to stop setting it up. Seeing an opportunity to provide citizens with another winter activity, Platte Valley Kiwanis members decided to resurrect the ice rink. For the past two years, the Kiwanis Club had the skating rink in the American Legion Park on Bridge Avenue. The small size of the park, and uneven ground, limited the space available for the rink. Also, the park offered no protection from animals, such as deer, which would venture onto the ice and destroy the liner.
The idea of using Veteran’s Island was brought up at the October 4th Saratoga town council meeting. The council members agreed the existing, fenced-in skateboard park on the island would make a better location for the rink than the American Legion Park.
With more space available at Veterans Island, Kiwanis members were able to return the rink to its original size of 30 by 50 feet. Platte Valley Kiwanis Club secretary, Cindy Carnes explained how fencing and cement pad at the skateboard park made it easier to set up the ice rink.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Skating-Rink-01.mp3The Saratoga Fire Department supplied water for the skating rink. Using a gate on East River Street, Carnes said the fire department was able to drive their pumper truck across a shallow section of the North Platte River to access the island.
Last Saturday, December 17th, was the Platte Valley Kiwanis Club’s Party at the Rink. Offering pizza, hot chocolate, and cookies, the 2-hour event attracted over 100 people. Carnes said, aside from the sun warming up a section of the rink, the new location was a major improvement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Skating-Rink-02.mp3Flood lights already exist at the site, allowing night skating. Kiwanis Club members added Christmas lights for a more festive atmosphere.
Through donations from local businesses and schools, the Platte Valley Kiwanis Club has over 55 pairs of ice skates, as well as a few helmets. Available 24/7, the skates and helmets are stored in bins on site. Kiwanis president, Susan Marich, said the entire event has been a collaborative effort.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Skating-Rink-03.mp3The larger rink size meant there was enough room on the ice for Saturday’s crowd. Marich said, if necessary, the entire rink could grow without much trouble.
The Platte Valley Kiwanis Club president said she was pleased by the turnout for the Party at the Rink. Marich said Veteran’s Island may become the rink’s permanent home.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Skating-Rink-04.mp3The Platte Valley Kiwanis skating rink will remain open until about mid-March, or when the ice begins to melt.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Skating-Rink-05.mp3
The Kiwanis club has donated skates available on site, free of charge. The Saratoga Recreation Department rents ice skates for the entire season for $5,00 with $20 with a $20 refundable deposit. Open Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 3 pm., your deposit will be returned when the skates are brought back to the rec department.
The Platte Valley Kiwanis Club plans to host additional events at the ice rink throughout the winter. Bigfoot99 will have more information as it becomes available.
December 20, 2022 |
Bitterly cold temperatures and a massive winter snowstorm beginning tomorrow threatens to upset travel plans for millions of Americans from the Plains to the Eastern Seaboard.
Wyoming could see some snow but the biggest impact will be Arctic Air settling in tomorrow night. Temperatures on Thursday will struggle to reach zero. Overnight temperatures will be in the -20 range with life-threatening windchill temperatures reaching 40 to 50 below zero.
Overnight, the National Weather Service in Cheyenne updated a Wind Chill Watch to a Windchill warning for south central and southeast Wyoming from Wednesday afternoon through Friday morning with the most dangerous time-period expected to fall between Wednesday night and Thursday morning.
The NWS advises that frostbite can occur in less than five minutes with windchill temperatures this low.
Accuweather forecasters reported Monday that the cold air already was pouring in from the north with no relief until the weekend.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_Cold-Weather.mp3Pictured above: File photo of winter storm in Carbon County. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Record low temperatures are expected across the Northern Plains to the eastern two-thirds of the country just as holiday travelers set out for their destinations.
Here in our region, some locations impacted by the Wind chill warning include but are not limited to Rawlins, Laramie, Saratoga, Shirley Basin, and Baggs.
December 20, 2022 |
As expected, the January 6 Committee voted 9-0 Monday to recommend the Department of Justice to pursue criminal charges against Former President Donald Trump.
Obstructing an official proceeding of Congress, defrauding the federal government, making a false statement, and inciting, assisting, or aiding and comforting an insurrection were among the reasons the politically loaded committee recommended the referrals in the 154-page Executive Summary.
U.S. House Representative Liz Cheney is the co-chair of the committee. Cheney, whose obsession with Trump, led to her 35-point defeat in the Wyoming Republican primary this summer, used her opening remarks to say that Trump should be barred from holding any elected office in the future because he did not issue a statement telling protestors at the Capitol Building to stand down as the chaotic events of January 6 unfolded
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1220_J6-Committee-1.mp3The committee was an initiative of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA). For the last 18 months, it has been probing the January 6 Capitol riot with a specific focus on Trump and his allies.
Trump’s response, which came from Brette Powell of Trump’s Campaign External Affairs Team, called the committee a “partisan vanity project” which is “gaslighting” the American public.
A fact sheet regarding the committee was attached with the official response. The data point Trump’s team disseminated included that officials at the House and Senate, including Pelosi and Senate leader Chuck Schumer, refused Trump’s request to have the National Guard present on January 6. The Trump team also wrote that FBI Director “Chris Wray Refuses to Investigate the Extensive Presence of FBI Informants During the Riot at the Capitol,” in reference to reports that the FBI had informants in the crowd on January 6 which were orchestrating events on the ground.
The GOP is set to take control of the House of Representatives in the next session beginning in January and has said they will dissolve the committee.
December 19, 2022 |
In Saratoga, officials with North Platte Valley Medical Center announced that the doors are anticipated to open to patients in mid-February.
Delays have continued to push back the opening date of the facility at 13th Street and West Bridge Avenue. Originally slated to open in August of 2022, supply chain issues led to shipment critical electrical equipment falling behind schedule. During an early October tour, the CEO of the Platte Valley Clinic and Saratoga Care Center Jeff Mincy said an early January 2023 opening was more likely.
However, more equipment delays followed. Mincy said last week he’s been waiting for a coil for the rooftop air handlers and a cap for a roof parapet. With those items in hand, construction can finally finish.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-1.mp3Pictured above: A November 30, 2022 photo of signage installation underway at the North Platte Valley Medical Center. Photo courtesy NPVMC/Facebook.
Now the hospital is waiting on final approval from the State of Wyoming. State inspectors did a preliminary walkthrough of the nearly completed facility at the end of November. More exit signs needed to be installed, inspectors said. Easy fix, Mincy told Bigfoot 99.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-2.mp3State inspectors will return on January 9th. The hospital CEO said about a month after the facility earns state certification, the doors will open to patients. Mincey said that at this point, the opening date is anticipated to be in mid-February.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-3.mp3When Bigfoot 99 toured the nearly completed hospital in October, the radiology and imaging equipment was not fully assembled. Mincy said everything is ready to go, except the Computerized Tomography machine. Tuesday’s snow prevented the technician from completing the assembly.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-4.mp3If the hospital passes the state inspection, Mincy said they could practically open that day. The hospital CEO said he nearly full roster.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-5.mp3Mincy said there will only be a handful of nurses and doctors employed by the hospital itself. The rest of the staffing will be provided by Aligned Providers of Wyoming.
With a shared vision of customer service and critical care, Mincy said partnering with APW was a no-brainer. APW’s ability to recruit people from across the state will take some of the burden off Mincy’s regular staff.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-6.mp3Mincy acknowledged that finding housing for the hospital staff may be challenging. He said reports from Bigfoot 99 and other media sources have spurred landlords in the community to offer their rentals to hospital employees. Mincy said everyone has been able to find a place to live.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-7.mp3Mincy said the prospect of practicing small-town medicine appeals to a certain type of person. He described the difference in mindset between an urban hospital and a medical center in a small community.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-8.mp3The North Platte Valley Medical Center CEO said he plans to operate as a “critical access hospital.” A critical access hospital receives more funding from government medical programs than a larger, urban facility.
Mincy said the hospital must meet specific standards in key areas to be certified as a critical access facility.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-9.mp3Mincy said the critical access benefits could be extended to South Central Wyoming EMS, but it would require their services being taken over by the hospital. The CEO said the decision would fall on the SCWEMS joint powers board.
Mincy talked about SCWEMS’s time on task, or the amount of time the ambulance spends with each patient. Taking someone from Saratoga to the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County in Rawlins can take upwards of two and a half hours. Mincy said, when the North Platte Valley Medical Center opens, that time would be greatly reduced. However, it will increase the demand on SCWEMS for other types of transport.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-10.mp3Once the North Platte Valley Medical Center opens, the Platte Valley Clinic will move from the Corbett Medical Building, on South River Street, into the hospital building. Mincy said, since the clinic is already state certified, they could begin operations as soon as construction of the hospital is done.
To avoid confusion, Mincy said he’ll wait until the entire facility is functioning before having patients visit the clinic’s new location.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Saratoga-Hospital-11.mp3A few more components and a state inspection are all that stand in the way of the North Platte Valley Medical Center’s opening. According to hospital CEO Jeff Mincy the hospital is slated to begin seeing patients in mid-February.
Click here to watch a replay of the recent NPVMC Hospital Roundtable public meeting
December 19, 2022 |
Rawlins City Council approved on third reading an ordinance that opens the door to home delivery of alcohol. The 4-2 vote at the December 6th council meeting on Ordinance 5.08.425 allows holders of liquor, wine and malt beverage licenses to accept orders from customers by phone, online or through mobile apps.
Police Chief Michael Ward, who had not addressed council during the first two readings of the ordinance, said he had mixed feelings about the ordinance. The chief said he saw no real benefits to the city from home delivery of booze. He also noted that bar owners had never appeared before council to express support for the service.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Booze-Delivery-Passes-1.mp3Vice Mayor Jacqueline Wells, who originally proposed the ordinance to allow alcohol delivered to the door, said she was approached privately by two individuals who requested the service. Councilman Chris Weisenburg said he spoke to two bar owners. One said they prefer customers to come into the bar. The other said they are not opposed to the ordinance but are uncommitted to offering home delivery.
Mayor Terry Weickum, as he did at second reading, spoke against the ordinance.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Booze-Delivery-Passes-2.mp3Councilmembers Aaron Durst, Darrrel Garner, Weisenberg and Wells voted for the ordinance. Mayor Weickum and Councilmember Linda Davis voted “no” votes. Councilmember Martinez left the meeting early to deal with a family emergency and was absent for the vote.
December 19, 2022 |
One thing leads to another. In Rawlins, a stolen car led police to another heisted vehicle and a little closer to solving a case that started in Saratoga.
In late October, a trailer was stolen off a property owned by Bill Schroer. The trailer was stored behind a garage he owns on the west side. At the time, Schroer declined to divulge the contents of the trailer, only saying it contained car parts.
New information gathered from Schroer and police shows the stolen trailer contained a partially dissembled 1970’s-era sprint car. Sprint cars are single seat vehicles used for racing, primarily on dirt tracks. Schroer said the vintage race car was missing major engine components, making it undrivable. The victim said the vehicle was a project car. He purchased it with the intention to rebuild it because the vintage racer reminded him of one he used to race.
Following its theft, Saratoga Police Chief Ken Lehr said the trailer was thought to have been taken out of the state. Chief Lehr said police had a suspect in South Dakota. They were watching online marketplaces in that area to see if the car or trailer appeared.
A month and a half later in mid-December, an unrelated vehicle theft led Rawlins PD to the location of Schroer’s missing sprint car. Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward said officers were searching for a stolen vehicle on the night of December 12th. Chief Ward described what happened.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Stolen-Car-01.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins Police Department. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Following the tire tracks, Chief Ward said officers were led to a vacant house on North Front Street. With the help of the property owners, the stolen car was located in the home’s garage. Police were surprised to see Schroer’s vintage race car next door.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Stolen-Car-02.mp3Chief Ward said Schroer’s vehicle didn’t appear to have been damaged.
The neighboring property is owned by the same people that own the house where the first stolen car was found. It was also vacant. Chief Ward said the homeowners are not suspects and that there are many questions left unanswered.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Stolen-Car-03.mp3Rawlins police do not have a suspect for either vehicle theft at this time. Bigfoot 99 asked Chief Ward if the same person was responsible for both crimes. Chief Ward said it’s likely, but the case is still under investigation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Stolen-Car-04.mp3While Schroer’s sprint car was recovered, his trailer was not. The Rawlins police chief said his department will continue to search for the trailer. Chief Ward said this type of theft is common in our area.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1219_Stolen-Car-05.mp3A lucky break lead Rawlins Police to a stash of stolen vehicles. With no suspect, the case remains under investigation.
December 16, 2022 |
An 18-year-old Rawlins man faces a felony and a misdemeanor charge after being arrested for assaulting a man with a gun in Saratoga Saturday night.
According to Carbon County Circuit Court records, Beckett Robinson faces a felony charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Prosecutors also charged Robinson with reckless endangering with a firearm, a misdemeanor. The 18-year-old made his initial court appearance on Tuesday. Robinson posted a $10,000 commercial surety bond and was released from county jail.
Robinson apparently was headed back to Rawlins when he was arrested on Highway 130 north of Saratoga Saturday night following the assault. The incident occurred at the corner of Third and Elm Streets near the Saratoga Elementary School and Platte Valley Community Center gym.
The victim is 18-year-old Chris Henneck of Saratoga. Henneck, who received a total of five stitches—two above one his eyebrows and three on the neck—told Bigfoot 99 that Robinson assaulted him with a gun following a verbal altercation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Saratoga-Assault-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Carbon County Jail. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Henneck said he provided Saratoga police with the same description of the event. Police Chief Kenneth Lehr told Bigfoot 99 that in his opinion the gun the arresting officer took during Robinson’s arrest has not been fired recently.
The victim said he is certain the gun Robinson used during the assault discharged not once, but twice, during the attack.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Saratoga-Assault-2.mp3Henneck said two 16-year-old friends of his were eyewitnesses to the attack and will testify that shots were fired. He said a person who lives near where the incident took place heard gunfire. A friend of Robinson’s also witnessed the attack, Henneck said.
The attack occurred between 7:30 and 8:00 p.m. following the Christmas parade Saturday night. Families were inside the community center attending a holiday event.
According to court documents, Robinson’s next court appearance is a preliminary hearing Tuesday afternoon.
December 16, 2022 |
A Rawlins man with an outstanding arrest warrant was taken into custody Tuesday night after a traffic stop resulted in a standoff with police.
Virgil Hubert Matthews was charged with terrorist threats after he produced what appeared to be an improvised explosive device and refused to exit his vehicle.
At 9:30 p.m. on December 13th, Rawlins PD stopped a vehicle, on the east side of the city, owned by a wanted man. The suspect refused to surrender and brandished what appeared to be a bomb. Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward described the event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-01.mp3Pictured above: Photos courtesy Rawlins Police Department.
Chief Ward said the suspect, Virgil Matthews, was wanted for bond revocation stemming from a charge of “strangulation of a household member,” which occurred during a previous domestic violence event.
With the suspect threatening officers, Rawlins PD cordoned off the area. Chief Ward said other agencies began to arrive on the scene.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-02.mp3When it became clear negotiations were not working, Chief Ward said SWAT and bomb squads were called in from the next county.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-03.mp3After the six-hour standoff, Matthews was taken to the Carbon County Jail where Chief Ward said he faces a litany of charges. Thankfully, the suspect’s bomb was fake.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-04.mp3Rawlins resident Tiffany Edlund, who works at a hotel near the scene, said she witnessed the majority of the event. Edlund described what she saw.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-05.mp3A flashbang is a type of grenade used to stun and disorient a suspect with a burst of light and a loud explosion. While considered non-lethal, when used in an enclosed space, the concussive blast can be fatal. The Rawlins police chief said he could not confirm such a device was used, but it wouldn’t be unusual if it had.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-06.mp3While Edlund and her boyfriend watched from inside of the hotel they also monitored the event using a police scanner. Edlund said she overheard that Matthews had tossed a letter from his vehicle.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-07.mp3Edlund said nothing much happened after Matthews threw the note to the officers. After several hours of waiting, Edlund said she saw law enforcement vehicles converge at the fast-food restaurant on Plaza Street.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-08.mp3Edlund said, about 20 minutes after law enforcement arrived at the restaurant, they swarmed the suspect’s location. It was at that time, Edlund said a flashbang grenade was used on Matthews.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-09.mp3Edlund said officers waited about 15 minutes and used another flashbang on Matthews. Afterwards, Edlund said most of the police and first responders left the scene.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-10.mp3Once most of the responding officers left the scene, Edlund said her boyfriend witnessed the suspect leave the vehicle already in handcuffs. Police Chief Ward would not confirm what happened. He said he was unable to discuss tactics. All Ward was able to say was that Matthews exited the van and was taken into custody.
Edlund said she had met the suspect a few months prior to the event while she was helping an incarcerated friend. She said Matthews helped them transport a motorcycle.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-11.mp3No one was injured during the six-hour standoff. Matthews was taken to Memorial Hospital of Carbon County to be checked out. He was quickly released and taken to the Carbon County Jail. Chief Ward said he was thankful nobody was hurt.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Police-Standoff-12.mp3The tense and dangerous event ended with the peaceful surrender of the suspect.
December 16, 2022 |
The Glenn Addition corral owners may see some relief in their water bills. The group will meet with Interim Rawlins City Manager Tom Sarvey this afternoon to discuss a possible adjustment to the water rate recently levied on the agricultural area in the south side of the city.
On December 1st, the corral owners saw their monthly city utility bill jump from $32 to $75. The $40 increase was double what most residents and business owners saw. Rawlins City Council approved a water rate increase in September after a study determined that the rates, which had not been raised in years, were not keeping up with cost of running and maintaining the system.
The corral owners say they understand the need for the increase. They question the amount levied on the corrals. The area is strictly agricultural. No on lives there. With one master meter measuring water usage, a corral owner who uses the least amount of pays the same monthly bill as the largest user. The owners also question some of the fundamental numbers that went into assessing overall water use in the Glenn Addition. They also say a leaking fire hydrant contributed to some of the recorded water usage.
Earlier this week, the corral owners presented the city with a petition that offers two alternative billing plans.
One is a flat fee of $40 per month. The second option would essentially set the total rate at $46.74 by reducing the amount of water the Glenn Addition uses as estimated by the city at 450,000 gallons a month to 225,000 gallons.
Austin Thomas owns one lot in the Glenn Addition. She helped organize the petition, gather the signatures and present to city hall this week. Thomas emphasized that corral owners organized themselves because they are just looking to be treated fairly.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1216_Glen-Addition-1.mp3File photo of horse drinking water.
In an email to the group yesterday, the Interim City Manager said a mistake was made on their water usage when the water rate study was being compiled earlier this year. Sarvey wrote, “The flow that was used in the calculation of the original rate included water usage that does not belong to the Glenn Addition. When this additional flow is removed from the calculation it will lower the monthly rate.”
Sarvey also said the water use data was taken from a time a fire hydrant in the Glenn Addition was known to be leaking. The hydrant has since been fixed. Sarvey said he would estimate the amount of loss and remove it from the usage number, as well.
He said his initial estimate could reduce the utility rate by $10 a month. The corral owners are asking for a reduction that amounts to $25-to-$35 a month.
The meeting between the interim city manager and the Glen Addition Corral owners is set for 5 p.m. tonight at the Comfort Inn in Rawlins. Thomas told Bigfoot 99 in an email Thursday that the group hopes to get some answers and an affordable plan in writing.
December 16, 2022 |
Given bitterly cold temperatures and snow that hit Wyoming just before Christmas, Governor Mark Gordon Thursday yesterday as signed an executive order to allow motor carriers delivering propane to operate outside the regular operating daylight hours.
Under the emergency relief order issued by the governor, a state of emergency exists in Wyoming for the prompt delivery of propane. This emergency requires that propane transportation and delivery within the State of Wyoming be exempt from 49 CFR 395.3, the federal regulation for maximum driving time for commercial property carrying vehicles.
All other rules and regulations pertaining to transportation deliveries will remain in effect. Companies are not permitted to require or allow any fatigued driver to operate a propane delivery vehicle. A driver who informs a carrier that they need immediate rest shall be given adequate rest before the driver is required to return to service.
The executive order will expire no later than midnight, January 14, 2023.
December 15, 2022 |
More details have emerged about an alleged assault involving a handgun after the Christmas parade in Saratoga Saturday night.
Police chief Ken Lehr said following a verbal altercation, a Saratoga man was assaulted in the parking lot of the Platte Valley Community Center by another man holding a pistol. Chief Lehr said the handgun wasn’t discharged but the unnamed perpetrator used the gun to beat the victim.
The incident was reported to police who stopped the suspect’s vehicle traveling north from Saratoga on Highay 130. Two men were in the vehicle, one from Rawlins and the other from Saratoga. The Rawlins man, who is suspected of committing the assault, was arrested.
Chief Lehr declined to provide the suspect’s name due to the ongoing investigation. An official police report has not been released. The police chief said the suspect would likely face aggravated assault charges. Lehr said, in his opinion, the gun was not fired during the incident and likely has not been fired at all recently.
The victim was taken to Memorial Hospital of Carbon County. A relative of the victim said the man was treated for a concussion and other injuries sustained during the attack.
The relative, who spoke to Bigfoot 99 Monday on the condition anonymity, said the gun discharged during the attack. When asked again Wednesday about the incident in light of Chief Lehr’s comments, the individual said the victim stood by the allegation that a shot was fired.
Calls to the Carbon County Jail yielded no new details about the suspect.
Pictured above: File photo of Carbon County Jail. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
December 15, 2022 |
A house fire in Hanna displaced the occupants during blizzard conditions.
In the early morning hours of December 14th, Hanna resident Michael Charles was woken up by his son to find their home was on fire. Charles explained what happened.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Hanna-House-Fire-1.mp3Charles said his son was up late playing video games. He noticed the fire when the electricity went out. Seeing smoke in the living room, Charles’s son alerted his father and they both tried to stop the blaze.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Hanna-House-Fire-2.mp3Charles said he punched holes in the wall above his wood stove to access the fire. He said there were three fire extinguishers in his home. After exhausting two and having the third malfunction, Charles said it became clear the fire was out of control.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Hanna-House-Fire-3.mp3The strong winds and snow made it more difficult to put the fire out. Charles said he and his son waited in his car for around three and a half hours while Hanna fire fighters battled the blaze.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Hanna-House-Fire-4.mp3Besides Charles and his son, there were two cats and a pit bull in the home when the fire broke out. Charles said the dog and one cat made it out. The second cat is very skittish and lives in the basement. Charles said he didn’t think that part of the house was affected by the flames.
St. Joseph’s Mission provided Charles and his son a motel room in Rawlins for the night. Charles said getting to the motel was treacherous.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Hanna-House-Fire-5.mp3Charles and his son were able to return to their home yesterday afternoon. Hanna EMS confirmed no firefighters were hurt.
It was a Christmas miracle no one was injured during the blaze. Blizzard conditions and below freezing temperatures made the fire especially dangerous to battle.
1 of 5 Photo courtesy Tessie Graul. Photo courtesy Tessie Graul. Photo courtesy Tessie Graul from Hanna. Photo courtesy Tessie Graul. Photo courtesy Tessie Graul.
December 15, 2022 |
The Festival of Trees in Saratoga last Friday night helped fill the funding void to the Chamber of Commerce caused by the cancellation of the annual Ice Fishing Derby.
The Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual Christmas-themed fundraising event on December 9th in the Great Hall at the Platte Valley Community Center. Tickets for the gala sold out over a week before the event took place. The Chamber of Commerce CEO Amanda Knotwell said the cancellation of the fishing derby resulted in people being more generous with their donations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Festival-of-Trees-1.mp3The 2023 Ice Fishing Derby was canceled after illegally stocked yellow perch were found during last year’s event. To stop the spread of the non-native fish, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department purged Saratoga Lake of all marine life using a toxin called rotenone. The state will restock the lake in the spring.
Attendees of the Festival of Trees were treated to cocktails and appetizers. Afterwards, there was an auction. Knotwell said there were several decorated artificial trees to bid on. The chamber of commerce CEO described some of the other items up for sale.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Festival-of-Trees-2.mp3A large wooden tree donated by Aspen Sky Merchant Mall generated the most money, garnering a high bid of $900. Ticket prices ranged from $40 for an individual up to $600 to sponsor a table of eight people. Knotwell said all in the Festival of Trees brought in more than $30,000.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Festival-of-Trees-3.mp3The money will help fund Chamber operations and events throughout the year. The annual chamber of commerce dinner will be held in March. Knotwell said the chamber will begin the new year with the Business of the Year awards.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Festival-of-Trees-4.mp3The cancellation of the 2023 Ice Fishing Derby was a financial blow to the Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce. According to Knotwell, the Festival of Trees gala helped make up for some of that lost revenue.
December 15, 2022 |
At last week’s Rawlins City Council meeting, a husband and wife team who have supported veterans and veterans activities for years were honored for their commitment to the community.
Mike and Vancine Sherr were presented with the Community Builder Award for December. Jason Seehon, chair of the Volunteer Committee that selects the recipients, offered the introduction.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Community-Builder-Award-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Mike Sherr is a veteran himself who served two separate stints in the U.S. Army, retiring in 1991 with the rank of Sgt. First Class. Vancine is the president of the American Legion Auxiliary in Medicine Bow. They celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary this week, on December 13. Volunteer committee member Mike O’Brien read a statement about the Sherrs that Mayor Terry Weickum wrote.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Community-Builder-Award-2.mp3Mayor Weickum offered a personal note of gratitude.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Community-Builder-Award-3.mp3The Community Builder Award is presented monthly to local businesses, individuals or organizations for their volunteer service, sponsorship, promotion of programs and events and for other contributions significant to the quality of life in Rawlins.
The award comes with a $100 check which the Sherrs donated to the local American Legion.
Standing at the podium, Vancine thanked the council and the volunteer committee and offered a parting piece of advice for residents of Rawlins.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1215_Community-Builder-Award-4.mp3
December 14, 2022 |
Interstate 80 is closed in both directions Wednesday from Laramie to Rawlins to Rock Springs as an epic winter storm continues to batter southern Wyoming with strong wind and snow.
Large stretches of the interstate were closed throughout the day Tuesday, with westbound or eastbound lanes opening only briefly at times. The interstate has been closed in both directions throughout the night. At 7:30 a.m., WYDOT posted that the estimated opening time would be late this afternoon sometime.
For the latest road conditions and closures, visit the WYDOT Travel Information website.
December 14, 2022 |
Facing a 134 percent water rate increase, the corral owners in the Glenn Addition have started a petition to present two compromise solutions to Rawlins City Council next week. Beginning with their December utility bill, the owners of the corrals saw their utility bills jump from $32 to $75. The $43-increase is about double what other city residents saw.
The corral owners question the math the city used to determine their new water rate.
In recent years, each of the 56 lots in the Glenn Addition was charged the water base rate, landfill maintenance fee, and recycling maintenance fee for a total of $32 per month. Beginning in December, in addition to the new base rate of $29.48, the $12 landfill fee and the $6 recycling fee, lot owners also started being charged a water usage fee of $28. Their total utility fee is now $75 a month.
The $28 usage fee per lot is an estimate. Without meters the city has no way of knowing how much each corral owner use. Some use more, some less, but they all pay the same rate.
Austin Thomas owns one lot in the agricultural area on the south side of Rawlins known as the Glenn Addition. Thomas raises chickens. Some owners, like Dori Fritz own more than one lot. Fritz corrals horses. Other owners keep cows and pigs—traditional parts of the Wyoming lifestyle otherwise unavailable in an urban setting. Thomas said the area provides many benefits to the community.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_Glen-Addition-Petition-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of horse drinking water.
The 50 or so corral owners are big supporters of Carbon County 4-H and generally the western way of life and the values it represents.
Thomas said the city’s math use doesn’t add up. The study used to set the new rate determined that the Glenn Addition uses about 450,000 gallons per month. Corral owners think the city’s estimate is double actual usage. They’ll present an alternative plan to council next week that puts usage at 225,000 gallons a month. Fritz said that the city’s calculation means each corral is using over 267 gallons a day. She contends that’s unlikely when cows consume 30 gallons a day in the summer and horses lap only five gallons a day. Fritz also questions the number of taps used in the study.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_Glen-Addition-Petition-2.mp3City staff is researching the issue. Mira Miller said the person most familiar with the numbers that were plugged into the survey no longer works for the city. So she and Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey are reviewing all the data that were plugged into the study.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_Glen-Addition-Petition-3.mp3Both Miller and Sarvey said the records they have reviewed indicate that usage in the Glenn Addition has trended lower over the last year.
Another option included in the petition that the Glenn Addition owners will bring to city council next weeks would replace the $75 utility bill that includes landfill and recycling fees with one flat fee of $40. Fritz said the city is essentially double charging corral owners because they pay the fee at their residences in-town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_Glen-Addition-Petition-4.mp3The details of the two options are contained in a petition the group is circulating. They garnered more than 200 signatures. Mayor Terry Weickum told the corral owners in an email Tuesday that he intends to put them on the agenda for next week’s council meeting to hear their request.
December 14, 2022 |
In Saratoga, officials are again expressing their unhappiness with the slow response times to gas leaks from Black Hill Energy. The response from the company is the same as it always has been.
During the December 6th Saratoga Town Council meeting Police Chief Ken Lehr talked about how long it takes Black Hills Energy to respond to gas leaks. Chief Lehr said he and Saratoga Fire Chief Pat Waliser have discussed the problem. People want to see the process sped up.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_BHE-Response-Time-1.mp3Photo courtesy Black Hills Energy.
Black Hills Energy supplies the town with natural gas. This isn’t the first time the town council has received complaints about the company’s slow response times. In July of 2021, Black Hills Energy representative Gary Hogan told the council that BHE wasn’t going to endanger its workers to speed up the gas line repair process.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_BHE-Response-Time-2.mp3The Saratoga fire department are the first responders to gas leaks. Fire Chief Waliser said his crew will set up a perimeter for safety.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_BHE-Response-Time-3.mp3The size of the secure perimeter is determined by the wind and severity of the leak.
The town council said there is a technician from Black Hills Energy stationed in the area. Mayor Creed James said the local tech isn’t able to shut the gas off during an emergency. The Saratoga Fire Department must wait for the gas company to send someone from 40 miles away.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_BHE-Response-Time-4.mp3Until Black Hills Energy is able to send a trained person to repair a gas leak, fire fighters are forced to wait. Their job is to keep people away from the site in case of a disaster. The Saratoga Fire Department is made up of volunteers. Mayor James said it’s difficult to convince people to leave their jobs and stand around waiting for a representative from the gas company.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_BHE-Response-Time-5.mp3Mayor James said Waliser called Black Hills Energy to address the response times. He was informed that most of the people who attended the July 2021 meeting no longer worked for the company. The mayor suggested they invite the gas company to a future town council meeting.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_BHE-Response-Time-6.mp3Councilman Jon Nelson said he’s met with Black Hills Energy twice in the past regarding the slow response times. He requested the town send a letter to the Wyoming Public Service Commission.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_BHE-Response-Time-7.mp3The Wyoming Public Service Commission is responsible for regulating public utilities, ensuring they provide reliable service to customers.
December 14, 2022 |
A pickup truck stuck in the snow on the Deep Jack Road west of Saratoga led to the arrest of two suspects holed up in Rawlins who were wanted in the attempted homicide of a Missouri State Trooper.
The case began to unfold in late November when a local search and rescue team responded to an abandoned vehicle report on Forest Road 830. According to a release from the Carbon County Sheriff’s Department, a vehicle check determined the 2020 Ford F-150 stuck in the snow was stolen out of Missouri. The resulting investigation focused on two suspects. John Glock and Nicholas Stephenson. They were arrested without incident on November 28 in Rawlins. Corporal Ralicia Tyler with Missouri Highway Patrol said the pair is accused of shooting several rounds at a trooper on November 19th during an attempted traffic stop.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_Suspects-Arrested-in-Rawlins.mp3Pictured above: John Glock and Nicholas Stephenson mugshots courtesy Carbon County Sheriff’s Office.
In all, eight suspects were arrested on felony charges during the investigation. Three stolen vehicles were recovered. Two stolen handguns were located. Three of the suspects are facing methamphetamine charges.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1214_Suspects-Arrested-in-Rawlins-2.mp3The Carbon County Sheriff’s Department, the Rawlins Police Department, and the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation worked with the Missouri law enforcement during the investigation and arrests of the suspects in Rawlins.
December 14, 2022 |
The much heralded next-gen nuclear power plant slated to be built near Kemmerer will be delayed by at least two years because the U.S. is at war with Russia.
The developers of Terra Power said the 2028 target date for the Natrium plant hinged on purchasing fuel from Russia. The Biden Administration’s hawkish war policy toward Russia combined with its America-last domestic energy policy will push the project back to 2030.
Image courtesy TerraPower.
Russia is the dominant player in global supply chains of nuclear reactor technology and fuel. Russia owned 40% of the total uranium conversion infrastructure in the world in 2020, and 46% of the total uranium enrichment capacity in the world in 2018, according to a report published by Columbia University’s Center on Global Energy Policy in May of 2022. There were 439 nuclear reactors in operation around the globe in 2021, and 38 of them were in Russia, an additional 57 were either built or under construction with Russian nuclear reactor technology.
President Biden didn’t target the nuclear sector when he issued an executive order earlier this year blocking imports of Russian crude and natural gas. The fallout from the policy, however, finally has caught up to the nuclear power supply chain.
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso supports the Biden Administration’s hardline policy with Russia over the hostilities in Ukraine. Barrasso said Tuesday that Terra Power’s announcement is a wake-up call that the U.S. must invest in the domestic fuel cycle. “America must reestablish itself as the global leader in nuclear energy,” the senator said in a statement. “Instead of relying on our adversaries like Russia for uranium, the United States must produce its own supply of advanced nuclear fuel.”
The senator also sent a letter to Department of Energy Secretary Granholm blasting her agency for not moving fast enough to develop a domestic supply of the type of fuel needed for advanced Natrium reactor. Russia also leads the U.S. that area of nuclear fuel.
Developing a domestic uranium supply would be a boon to southern Wyoming because of deposits here.
Terra Power still plans to hold a groundbreaking ceremony next year at the project site where Pacific Power’s coal-burning Naughton Plant is slated to retire in 2025.
December 13, 2022 |
The massive storm bearing down on Wyoming and Nebraska today started later than expected, but the impacts will be felt through at least Thursday and maybe Friday.
Forecasters say how much snow falls over the next 24 hours depends on how much moisture the system can draw in from the south. Rawlins and Saratoga will receive at least seven or eight inches of snow – and as much as 15 inches. Meteorologist Michel Natoli with the National Weather Service said the high-low forecast is the result of competing weather models.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Early-Winter-Storm-1.mp3Pictured above: Interstate 80 near Vedauwoo on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022. Photo courtesy WYDOT.
Moderate amounts of snow will fall through much of the day today. Light snow, blowing snow and wind can be expected north and south of Interstate 80 east of Elk Mountain tonight. Winds will be stronger at Elk Mountain and Arlington where a blizzard warning is in effect. Natoli said core blizzard impact times will be from this morning through mid-day Wednesday.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Early-Winter-Storm-2.mp3Travelers can expect wind gusts of 45 to 60 miles at times along the I-80 corridor, leading to rapidly changing driving conditions. Whiteouts are likely to develop quickly. The combination of falling and blowing snow will reduce visibility to one-quarter mile at times on slick and snow-covered roadways.
Blizzard conditions also are likely on the I-80 summit between Laramie and Cheyenne today and tomorrow. Forecasters say the prolonged elevated winds could persist through Friday.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Early-Winter-Storm-3.mp3The other big concern is the bitterly cold wind chill temperatures we’ll have to endure through the duration of the storm event and beyond. Widespread minimum wind chills between -5 degrees and -20 degrees are anticipated. Wind chills may recover to near 0 to 5 degrees during the today and tomorrow.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Early-Winter-Storm-4.mp3The minimum wind chill temperatures for Rawlins and Saratoga will be around -7 degrees and even lower at Elk Mountain. Wind chills will remain bitterly cold for Thursday and Friday after the snow comes to an end.
Stretches of Interstate 80 were closed across much of southern Wyoming Tuesday because of the storm. The Hanna-Elk Mountain-Medicine Bow schools operated started the day on a two-hour delay.
The winter storm warning is in effect across Carbon County until 5 p.m. Tuesday.
December 13, 2022 |
The Town of Saratoga isn’t prepared to sign a lease for the Platte Valley Aquatic Center until hard numbers can be provided.
For over a year, Saratoga attorney Nick Haderlie has been working to create a large-scale, indoor, water sports facility for the town. In early November, Haderlie presented his completed design and feasibility studies to the Saratoga town council. The attorney’s plans contained two different layouts for the Platte Valley Aquatic Center, depending on how much money he was able to raise for its construction. Haderlie said he was confident he could obtain funding for at least the lower priced design costing $12.5 million. He asked the council to consider offering him a 50-year lease for town-owned land on West Elm Street, between the Saratoga Public Library and the middle/high school.
To pay the nearly $750,000 yearly operating costs of the aquatic center, the attorney suggested the town allocate its entire recreation department budget to him. The aquatic center’s board of directors would handle all non-school related sports programs for the town.
During the December 6th Saratoga Town Council meeting, concerns were expressed by council members over the proposed lease agreement Haderlie had presented to the town. Without knowing if the project would be fully funded, Councilman Jon Nelson wondered if the town was moving too fast by signing a legally binding agreement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Saratoga-Aquatic-Center-1.mp3When Haderlie presented his aquatic center plans to the town, Councilman Ron Hutchins said he thought the operational costs contained in the design documents were too low. Haderlie said those amounts were merely estimates and more solid numbers would be provided once fund raising got under way. Councilman Hutchins said Haderlie was asking the town to sign a lease without providing that information.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Saratoga-Aquatic-Center-2.mp3The lease Haderlie presented to the town stipulated that construction had to begin within one year. If that milestone was not met, the land would revert back to the town. Councilman Nelson said, in case the attorney is unable to get the aquatic center off the ground, it might be a good idea for the town to have other ways to end their agreement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Saratoga-Aquatic-Center-3.mp3The council members agreed Haderlie would be more successful in his fundraising if he had a guarantee for the land from the town. Councilman Hutchins said there might be a way to promise Haderlie the property without signing a lease.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Saratoga-Aquatic-Center-4.mp3The facility would be governed by a board of directors. Saratoga would have a representative on the board, the town council would have no say in how the aquatic center is run. Mayor Creed James said he wasn’t sure abolishing the town’s recreation department to provide funding to the Platte Valley Aquatic Center is the best idea.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Saratoga-Aquatic-Center-5.mp3Councilman Nelson pointed out how the day-to-day operations of the aquatic center wasn’t set in stone. The attorney was asking the town to turn over the entire rec department budget to his facility, but Nelson said there may be other ways to handle the situation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Saratoga-Aquatic-Center-6.mp3Councilman Nelson said he enjoys seeing members of the public put forth efforts to improve the community. He said he approves of the idea for the aquatic center, but it needs more thought put into it before the town signs anything.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Saratoga-Aquatic-Center-7.mp3The council agreed the decision to sign the lease or not would need to be made by the incoming council. Mayor James said he will ask town attorney Jane France to find an alternative way to set aside the land Haderlie needed, without signing a long-term lease.
December 13, 2022 |
The Rawlins Middle School assistant principal has been recognized by the state with a prestigious education award.
The Wyoming Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals has chosen Jacinda Waldrip, to receive their 2023 National Outstanding Assistant Principal Award. Waldrip said Principal Ryan Searle and Fundamental Skills Coordinator Ryan Puckett nominated her for the award.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Teacher-Award-1.mp3Pictured above: Jacinda Waldrip. Photo by Matthew Copeland/Bigfoot 99.
Assistant Principal Waldrip was presented with the WAEMSP award during a ceremony in the school gymnasium. Principal Searle managed to keep the presentation a secret. Waldrip said she had no idea she had won.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Teacher-Award-2.mp3Waldrip said she was in a meeting off school grounds when she was called back to the school for an unspecified reason. When she arrived, a sign on the door directed her to go to the gym. A surprise awaited her there.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Teacher-Award-3.mp3Kenny Jones is the executive director for the Wyoming Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals.
As well as a fancy plaque, Waldrip was given a water bottle and Bluetooth speaker as part of her Assistant Principal of the Year award. Waldrip said the WAEMSP has also offered to pay for her to attend a teaching conference in the nation’s capital.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Teacher-Award-4.mp3Waldrip said she isn’t sure if she’ll be able to attend the conference.
Waldrip has been teaching in Carbon County for 17 years. For the last 5 years, she has been the Assistant Principal for Rawlins Middle School. During that time, school staff have worked to incorporate professional leaning community standards into the curriculum. Waldrip explained what is required to become a PLC school.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Teacher-Award-5.mp3Assistant Principal Waldrip’s recognition by the WAEMSP isn’t the only thing happening at Rawlins Middle School. Each month, students participate in different Colt Learning Lab, or CLL, activities. CLL is a teaching program with a focus on personal development and community engagement. Last month, students collected canned good to donate to St. Vincent De Paul. Waldrip didn’t know the exact amount of food collected, but said it was the biggest haul yet.
For December, Rawlins Middle School students are selling paper light bulbs. Paper cutouts of Christmas lights may be purchased in someone’s name, as a way to honor that person. Waldrip explained the proceeds go to a good cause.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1213_Teacher-Award-6.mp3The students that sell the most paper light bulbs will personally choose what items they would like to donate using the money that was raised.
December 12, 2022 |
A strong winter storm which developed in the mountains of California over the weekend is expected to impact the high plains of Wyoming later today and tomorrow. The cross-country storm will then unleash a blizzard across the Northern Plains and leave parts of the Northeast with wintry weather later in the week.
The exact track and snowfall details of the storm as it moves through Wyoming became clear by Monday morning. Forecast modeling shows Carbon County, including Arlington, Rawlins and Saratoga, will receive around six to eight inches of snow on the low end and maybe as much as a foot of snow.
Interstate 80 will bear the brunt of the storm with blizzard conditions now forecast from Elk Mountain to the Carbon/Albany County line.
National Weather Service Meteorologist Brandon Wills said snow will develop over Carbon County in the late morning Monday.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Winter-Storm-1.mp3Pictured above: Weather story graphic courtesy of National Weather Service.
Strong winds, blowing snow, and bitterly cold wind chills around zero or below are likely.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Winter-Storm-2.mp3Weather impacts in the Snowy Range and the Sierra Madre Mountains will be severe with one-to-two feet of fresh snowfall expected over the next 24 to 36 hours.
To our east, blizzard conditions are expected from Douglas to Torrington Wyoming, and across western Nebraska.
All of Carbon County, from Baggs to the Shirley Basin are under a Winter Storm Warning from 11 a.m. Monday to 5 p.m. Tuesday.
December 12, 2022 |
In Rawlins, the water rate increase approved in September went into effect with the December bills residents just received. While the increase was applied across the board to residents and businesses alike, the corral owners in the south-side Glenn Addition are among the hardest hit.
For the first time in recent memory, the owners of the 56 corrals are paying a water usage fee, making the rate increase especially painful.
The Glen Addition is a section of agricultural land that was once used as stockyards by the Union Pacific Railroad. The 56 lots are owned by different residents to corral horses, as well as to raise chickens and cows.
Water infrastructure to the corrals has been under-engineered historically. The original water meters froze and were never replaced. The result is that city water to the Glen Addition passes through one main meter and then distributed to the individual corrals with no way of monitoring how much water is used at each corral. Some people use more than others but have been billed the same rate for years.
The unusual billing policy for city water service to the area came under new scrutiny after the water bill came out at the beginning of the month.
A water rate study conducted earlier this year revealed that the corral owners at the Glen Addition use about 450,000 gallons of water a month. Under the new rate, this usage amounts to a bill of $1,566.
With no way of metering how much water each lot uses, the bill from the main meter was divided by the 56 corrals, equaling $28 month. Some people own more than one corral. They will pay the fee for each lot owned.
Unlike other properties in town, the corrals have never paid a water usage fee. In the past, corral owners were only charged the water base rate, the landfill maintenance fee, and the recycling maintenance fee. Prior to just enacted rate hike when the base fee was $14 a month, corral owners paid about $30 month total.
Then came the double whammy. The base water rate doubled in the December bill to $29.48. Combined with the first-time ever water usage fee, corral owners in the Glenn Addition saw their city utility bill jump from $32 month to $75. City water service in the agriculture area can only be used for livestock and irrigation.
Shocked, some owners turned out to last week’s city council meeting. Seven spoke to the issue with questions and concerns during the public comment section of the meeting. Some were confused about the new water usage fee. A question from Austin Thomas about ow the fee is applied – by the spigot or to a corral – revealed another layer of confusion that both Mayor Terry Weickum and Councilman Debari Martinez tried to answer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Glen-Addition-1.mp3City staff has since confirmed the bill is per lot. The discussion last Tuesday revealed that the Wild West way that the Glen Addition has been administered has created confusion. “Corral” and “spigot” are used interchangeably by some, but neither term is found in city code. One this is certain. Billing in the Glen Addition is not residential and business zones where users are bill by tap connections and metered usage.
Additionally, fences that may have existed at one time in some corrals, have been removed. A big corral today may have been several smaller lots in the 1990s. Section 13.08.045 of municipal code, which addresses water usage for property owners in the Glen Addition, is not clear either.
City code doesn’t use either term, “corral” or “spigot.” It only refers to “property.” Mayor Weickum acknowledged the problem
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Glen-Addition-2.mp3The current remedy is not seen as ideal, either. Rawlins resident Dori Fritz owns three acres in the Glen Addition and pays two bills. Fritz said she wished she that she had been given some warning about the new usage fee that lot owners will have to pay.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Glen-Addition-3.mp3Public Information Officer Mira Miller told Bigfoot 99, who was juggling multiple grant applications and the transition between city managers at the time of the rate increase, acknowledges that that the city could have done a better job. Miller said two groups were left out of the messaging: Business owners with larger water connections that the standard residential tap and the Glen Addition property owners who being charged with the new water usage fee.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Glen-Addition-4.mp3Most residents saw a rate increase of about $20 a month. Glen Addition residents saw their rate increase by at least $45.
As a result of the new policy, the city has traded one imperfect solution for administering the water fees in the Glen Addition for another. For instance, Fritz asked if she could install a water meter to track usage at her property. Mayor Weickum said that is part of the long-term plan to address what is a known issue.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Glen-Addition-5.mp3Mayor Weickum likely meant to say “spigot” per lot, not “meter per lot”—again evidence of the confusion surrounding the way the Glen Addition has been administered over the years. The mayor said re-engineering the area is a goal.
A long-term solution is included in the city’s master plan. Councilwoman Smith offered Glen Addition owners hope that a fix could come in less than five years. Smith said water meters are another project on the city’s long list of infrastructure issues.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Glen-Addition-6.mp3Installing more fire hydrants would be part of the re-engineering of the water system in the Glen Addition.
December 12, 2022 |
The Corbett Medical Foundation has provided Saratoga a way out of expensive deferred maintenance to their clinic building.
If the North Platte Valley Medical Center meets their scheduled early 2023 opening date, the Platte Valley Clinic, located in the Corbett Medical Building at 1208 South River Street, would move into the hospital. Once the Corbett Building is empty, Valley Village Childcare would like to occupy the space. Issues bringing the building up to state and federal daycare standards have brought to light the need for costly upgrades and repairs.
The Corbett Medical Foundation donated the building that bares its name to the town of Saratoga in November of 1994. It was agreed the Corbett Foundation would retain the right to say what type of business operates on the premises. The idea was to have something beneficial to the community as a whole, such as a medical clinic, or, in this case, a childcare facility, in the building. If the agreement were breached, ownership of the structure would revert to the Corbett Medical Foundation.
The 1994 agreement essentially made the town of Saratoga the landlord for the Corbett Medical Building. As such, the town is responsible for maintenance, which it has been delaying for some time. When Ellie Dana investigated moving the Valley Village Childcare to the location, she discovered several concerns, including inadequate water drainage, damage to the parking lot, and a need for a new roof. Dana is the Valley Village Childcare board’s vice-chairperson. She said fixing those problems would cost the town over half a million dollars. Dana told the town council about her alternative plan.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Valley-Village-Agreement-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of the Ray A. Corbett Medical Building. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
The 2016 Master Plan for Saratoga mentioned that a lack of childcare facilities was inhibiting growth of the town. Dana used the plan’s recommendations to ask the town council to utilize a specific regulation which would allow her organization to take ownership of the building.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Valley-Village-Agreement-2.mp3The Corbett Medical Foundation has agreed to allow the town to sell the medical building to Valley Village Childcare for $1. Described as a Warranty Deed with Possibility of Reverter, the consent of sale states the building must be used for early childhood education and care. Mayor Creed James explained what happens if that stipulation isn’t met.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Valley-Village-Agreement-3.mp3Valley Village Childcare would partner with ExCel Preschool to offer both services in one building. ExCel offers education and screening for preschool children. Dana explained the benefit of having everything under one roof.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Valley-Village-Agreement-4.mp3Councilman Jon Nelson said he was concerned that the deed didn’t mention ExCel Preschool. Having both services occupy the same building would offer the greatest benefit to the community. He wanted to be sure the joint venture between the daycare and preschool was moving forward. The Valley Village board vice-chairperson said the preschool needed to be on board.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Valley-Village-Agreement-5.mp3Dana explained she will be meeting with ExCel’s Executive Director Jaime Stine to come up with an agreement that addresses Councilman Nelson’s concerns. She said her organization would pick up the slack for the preschool and vice versa.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Valley-Village-Agreement-6.mp3While the council agreed that selling the building to Valley Village Childcare would be better than continuing to be the landlord, there are legal steps that must be taken before signing the deed. Mayor James explained the rules that apply to this and a previous arrangement.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Valley-Village-Agreement-7.mp3The mayor is referring to when the town attempted to trade valuable property to the owner of the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort for a small strip of land adjacent to the Never Forget Park’s proposed location. Mayor James had entered into a gentleman’s agreement to give the resort’s owner, Dr. Michael Janssen, town owned land before an appraisal was made. When the public was informed of how large of a price discrepancy there was between the two plots, the deal fell through.
The town is required to obtain three different appraisals for the Corbett Medical Building before hosting a series of public comment sessions. Mayor James said the decision to move forward with the deal would need to be made by the next council. Mayor-Elect Chuck Davis asked to begin the appraisal process as soon as possible.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1212_Valley-Village-Agreement-8.mp3The Valley Village vice-chairperson said her board would put up $2,500 towards the cost of the appraisals. The town council approved a motion providing up to $2,000 for the same purpose. With the holidays in full swing, the council was not optimistic they could find an appraiser before the new council was sworn in, but they said they would try.
The town council agrees that having the daycare and ExCel Preschool occupy the Corbett Medical Building would be a benefit to the community. Regulatory hurdles still need to be overcome but converting the clinic to a daycare center appears more likely with the new agreement.
December 9, 2022 |
By Jim O’Reilly
The Saratoga man charged in September with intentionally taking an antlered big game animal out of season will meet again later this month with Carbon County prosecutors as he tries to arrange a plea deal.
As reported by Bigfoot 99, Tom Arthur and county prosecutors met on November 19th in an out-of-court settlement conference. Arthur’s attorneys failed to reach a plea agreement then. Another conference is now scheduled for December 27th.
Arthur owns the Upper Cedar Creek Ranch, east of Saratoga. The citation shows that Arthur is accused of intentionally killing an antlered game animal out of season. The incident occurred at the north edge of his property near where it borders the Condict Ranch. Arthur apparently killed a large trophy buck with a rifle during archery season.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department allocates a certain number of limited quota hunting licenses to landowners. However, all hunting regulations remain in effect for landowners. Wildlife is the property of the state, and landowners they do not have the right to kill a game animal out of season, even if it is on their land.
The Arthur poaching case has put a spotlight on how landowners tend to enjoy a privileged status when it comes to hunting licenses. Critics say the WGFD practice of issuing limited quota licenses to landowners reduces the number available in the lottery to all hunters. The impact of the policy inflates the value of land, the value of limited quota licenses, as well as the price for the racks of trophy game animals. Some say the WGFD policy turns hunting into a “rich man’s sport.”
Arthur’s attorney is Jason M. Tangeman, of Nicholas & Tangeman LLC, in Laramie. When asked for a statement about the case, Tangeman’s assistant said the attorney was, “not interested in talking about anything.”
Wyoming Game and Fish policy makers in Cheyenne have not yet responded to a series of questions submitted to them by Bigfoot 99.
Poaching is a serious offense. Area hunters are keeping a close eye on the case to see if Arthur’s wealth, which helped him secure the limited quota license, impacts way it is handled. The need for a third settlement conference suggests that the negotiations are not going the defendant’s way. If a deal is not reached at some point, the case will end up in court.
Pictured above: File photo of a mule deer.
December 9, 2022 |
Governor Mark Gordon spent over an hour before the Joint Appropriations Committee Thursday morning presenting his vision for managing a rush of one-time state revenues during a time of economic uncertainty. The governor described the upcoming year as a pivotal point in state history.
The splash of revenues in state coffers has produced a $913 million surplus in the general fund surplus after dollars appropriated by the legislature have been distributed as required. The governor cautioned that the windfall is likely a one-time opportunity. The increased revenues are from two sources primarily: Unprecedented federal spending in the form of post-Covid grants to the state. The other is a surprising rise in commodity prices.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Budget-Proposal-1.mp3Governor Gordon said the increase in commodity prices, as well as the way Washington wants the grant money spent, is a double edge sword. The flush of money, especially in the energy sector, is producing inflationary impacts in the 10-16% range that are dragging down the economy.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Budget-Proposal-2.mp3In response to both the positive and negative impacts from the flush of money, the governor is proposing that half of the $913 million surplus be put into long-terms savings to offset what he described are revenue challenges certain to come. He provided the JAC with a roadmap on how and where the money should be saved.
Governor Gordon also presented spending increases. For instance, he is recommending $13.7 million be set aside just to deal with inflationary impacts on state government that could cause some agencies to blow through their budgets.
The Governor is also requesting additional appropriations to local governments in two separate tranches. He mentioned Rawlins specifically.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Budget-Proposal-3.mp3The governor said having the money to help Wyoming communities respond emergencies is important.
The Governor’s wish list of increased spending in his supplemental budget request includes funding for several areas he said are important to maintain safe and healthy communities, including:
• $5 million to address mental and behavioral health service gaps
• $7.8 million to harden cybersecurity
The governor also wants to increase funding for the state prison system. He is proposing spending more than $2 million be spent to increase bed capacity at local community corrections programs around the state.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Budget-Proposal-4.mp3A footnote in the Governor’s budget outlook states that the Wyoming Department of Corrections will appear before the JAC to request a $3.1 million budget increase for pay raises to security officers. Low pay at the prison is aggravated by a lack of suitable housing, the footnote continues. Because of the staffing shortage, the WDOC spends approximately $410,000 in overtime for officers and WSP staff.
The governor said that House Bill 53, which includes another $1.3 million in continued funding for the WDOC, will also help with staffing situation at state prisons, the governor said.
The governor gave the JAC a lot to digest Thursday. Co-Chair Bob Nicholas thanked the governor for the “boldness and creativity” of his budget proposal, and promised that the committee would give it a fair hearing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Budget-Proposal-5.mp3During his presentation, Governor Gordon said he would supply the lawmakers with letters providing more information on specific areas of proposed requests.
The 2023 General Session begins January 10.
December 9, 2022 |
Rawlins is looking at ways to alleviate their water problems. One option city officials are exploring is reopening the dormant water pre-treatment plant.
During the November 15th Rawlins City Council meeting, two members of Y2 Consultants were present to update the council on progress being made to start the pre-treatment plant. Headquartered in Jackson, Wyoming, Y2 Consultants offers engineering, surveying, and planning services. Y2’s Rich Cripe is managing Rawlins’ Pre-Treatment Plant Startup Project. He started by explaining its purpose.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Pre-Treatment-Plant-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Last summer’s catastrophic water infrastructure failure put Rawlins city officials on notice that something needed to be done. Extended droughts have reduced the capacity of underground springs relied on for drinking water. Cripe said water will continue to be an issue.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Pre-Treatment-Plant-2.mp3Last July, Y2 Consultants was hired by the city to study ways to increase the amount of clean water available to residents and conserve existing water supplies.
One of the options available to the city was restarting their existing water pre-treatment plant. Y2 engineer, Lou Harmon, said the plant has sat unused for a long time.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Pre-Treatment-Plant-3.mp3Getting the pre-treatment plant up and running is essential if the city plans to use surface water for drinking. Underground aquafers usually don’t require as much treatment as rivers and lakes due to them not being exposed to surface pollutants. The pre-treatment plant will take the burden of cleaning surface water off the city’s main treatment facilities.
Y2’s engineers found a lot of problems with the pre-treatment plant. Important equipment was installed incorrectly, computers were not functioning, and outdoor water basins were leaking. Project manager Cripe said those issues resulted in increased maintenance costs.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Pre-Treatment-Plant-4.mp3The pre-treatment plant has been dormant mainly because it is expensive to run. City officials will need to find money in the budget if they intend to use it. Regular maintenance and filter changes, on top of purchasing necessary chemicals, will add to the cost. Cripe said the city will also need to hire more people to operate it.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Pre-Treatment-Plant-5.mp3Reactivating the pre-treatment plant is just one avenue Y2 Consultants is perusing. Cripe praised the city for improving their spring system. He said the water pumped from underground won’t take as much effort to clean.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Pre-Treatment-Plant-6.mp3Cripe said his study showed the city is using treated water on public areas like the parks and the cemetery. The engineer suggested finding alternative sources of water for those applications.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Pre-Treatment-Plant-7.mp3The Y2 engineer told the city to try reusing water. He said, with proper treatment and added minerals, black water could be used on the city’s grass.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Pre-Treatment-Plant-8.mp3Cripe also suggested the city cover their reservoirs. He said this would reduce evaporation and decrease the amount of chemicals needed to treat the water.
Y2 Consultant’s engineers would like to perform a weeklong test on the pre-treatment plant next month, allowing them to fine tune chemicals used to clean the water. The trial will ensure everything is functioning properly before they put the plant into full operation in early summer. Y2’s Lou Harmon said starting the pre-treatment plant before water usage spikes will make sure it can handle the increased demand.
Y2 Consultants is optimistic they will be able to hit that early January time frame.
December 9, 2022 |
The Saratoga Community Choir will perform a Christmas concert this weekend. On Sunday, December 11th in the theater of the Platte Valley Community Center, the group will perform a selection of holiday-related songs. Choir Director Valerie Larscheid said they’re not focusing on one type of music.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Saratoga-Choir-01.mp3Pictured above: Photo courtesy Platte Valley Community Center.
Larscheid said she and the choir have been practicing for the Christmas concert for 10 weeks. They meet every Tuesday from 7-8:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Saratoga. The choir director said they have over 20 members.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Saratoga-Choir-02.mp3The Saratoga Community Choir was founded over 35 years ago by Larscheid’s grandmother and other members of the Presbyterian Church. Larscheid has been the choir director for the past 15 years. She said music has always been a part of her life.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Saratoga-Choir-03.mp3Sunday’s Christmas concert is the only event the Saratoga Community Choir will perform. Larscheid said they used to do an Easter and Fourth of July show, but choir members don’t have as much time to offer anymore. However, the director said she would like to bring back at least one additional show.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Saratoga-Choir-04.mp3The concert will be held in the PVCC auditorium. Larscheid said the show is free to all, but donations are welcome. The director said the money goes to fund the choir.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1209_Saratoga-Choir-05.mp3The Saratoga Community Choir’s Christmas concert is Sunday, December 11th. Held in the theater of the Platte Valley Community Center, the show begins at 4 p.m. Afterwards, there will be snacks brought to you by the choir members. Choir director Larscheid said to approach her, or another member, after the show if you are interested in joining.
December 8, 2022 |
The Saratoga Town Council voted Tuesday night to hold the contractor on the Spring Avenue waterline and repaving project responsible for late fees and penalties through the winter after falling behind the contracted deadlines.
The contractor, Lewis & Lewis, had asked the town to amend the contract to avoid the charges known as liquidated damages. The contractor missed their substantial and final completion dates on October 15th and 31st, respectively. With winter setting in and the ground frosting, the contractor wanted to shut down the project for winter and return in the spring.
The contract between the Town of Saratoga and the contractor states that liquidated damages, or LD’s, of $1,000 per day would occur if the contractor failed to meet the substantial completion date. Missing the Halloween deadline added another $750 to the daily LD’s. In total, liquidated damages of $1,750 a day have been assessed since the end of October.
The contract stipulates the LD’s were to continue even if weather conditions made it impossible for the contractor to continue working. The recent below freezing temperatures have made dirt work and paving difficult. Making the problem worse, the plant where Lewis & Lewis was expecting to receive asphalt shut down for the season. So now, even the temporary pavement L&L had promised put down for winter is no longer an option. Instead, the contractor will use recycled asphalt pavement, or RAP. They would reheat the road surface removed earlier in the project and use it for temporary blacktop.
Once it became clear the project would not be completed before winter, the contractor approached the town with a request to alter their contract. During Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Lewis & Lewis’s construction manager, Caleb Tygum, asked the town not to charge LD’s for the entire winter.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-1.mp3Pictured above: Spring Avenue bore pit. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
Tygum offered the town three options for how his company could handle the winter shutdown. No matter which option the town chooses, the contractor will leave on December 15th.
If the town agrees to amend the contract and allow Lewis & Lewis the winter shut down without LD’s, then Option 1 would come into play. In Option 1, the contractor would use recycled road surface to temporarily pave Spring Avenue and parts of South River Street, allowing for traffic to pass during the winter. Tygum told the council his company would pay the town back for any repair work done on the incomplete water lines, and if possible, help.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-2.mp3If the town chooses not to accept the terms laid out in Option 1, Tygum hopes they will agree to a compromise. Option 2 involves the town considering the job mostly finished, granting Lewis & Lewis substantial completion status, and eliminating $1,000 worth of daily LD’s throughout the winter.
As the contract stipulates, the project was supposed to have hit substantial completion by October 15th. Tygum asked the town to consider that goal met.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-3.mp3Even if the town agrees to provide a substantial completion certificate, the contractor has still missed the final completion date. Meaning LD’s of $750 a day would continue until the project is finished. In this scenario, the roads would remain unpaved, but would be open to traffic.
Option 3 is the nuclear option. If the town refuses to compromise on liquidated damages, Lewis & Lewis would keep the unpaved roads completely closed until they return next spring. Tygum said this is to prevent accident liability and avoid any delays when restarting the project next year.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-4.mp3In an email presented to the town council, Lewis & Lewis’s construction manager said his company intends to return to the job March 2oth and be completed by the end of April. Tygum reassured the town that no matter which option they chose, his crew would return in the spring.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-5.mp3Ray Martin, an attorney specializing in construction law, was brought in by the town to review the contract. He started by suggesting the town immediately reject Option 2, granting the contractor a certificate of substantial completion. Martin said the contract clearly states when substantial completion has occurred.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-6.mp3Martin suggested the town chose Option 1, to stop the liquidated damages until Lewis & Lewis come back next year. The attorney said the contract protects the town financially, even if the LD’s aren’t assessed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-7.mp3The town is within its legal rights to hold Lewis & Lewis to the letter of the contract. However, Martin said his experience shows companies consider how a town has treated past contractors. If they think the town is difficult to work with, bids for future projects may be higher or non-existent.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-8.mp3Councilman Jon Nelson made it clear he did not agree with the construction law attorney. He expressed his exasperation with what he said is a council that is too risk averse.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-9.mp3Nelson said the contract clearly states the consequences should Lewis & Lewis fail to meet their deadline. When the project was first discussed in early summer, Nelson said the contractor assured the town the job would be finished on time.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-10.mp3Lewis & Lewis’ construction manager, Caleb Tygum, said the job was going as planned until his crew hit ground water in the bore pit. Located by town hall, the bore pit allowed the contractor to thread pipe beneath First Street without having to close the major artery through town. Attempts to dry the pit delayed the project by several weeks. Tygum said the unexpected ground water should have triggered an alteration to the contract, known as a change in condition. Councilman Nelson didn’t agree.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-11.mp3Councilman Ron Hutchins talked about trust. The contractor must trust the town not to be punitive with the liquidated damages. Councilman Hutchins said the contract will ensure everyone stays honest.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Council-Plays-Hardball-12.mp3Impact Joint Powers Board Chairman Richard Raymer, said his board would like to see the contract upheld. He mentioned that he, personally, thinks Lewis & Lewis are doing a good job, but the contract is meant to protect the town from incurring unforeseen costs during the winter.
Mayor Creed James asked the incoming council members who were present for their thoughts. Mayor-elect, Chuck Davis, said he leaned toward upholding the contract.
Councilwoman D’Ron Campbell offered a motion to approve Option 1, allowing the contractor to leave for winter and halt the LD’s. Councilman Hutchins said he was going to vote against amending the contract, but the advice of the attorneys had changed his mind. He seconded Councilwoman Campbell’s motion. Mayor James asked the assistant town clerk, Brenda Mistelske, to poll the council.
Council members Nelson and Kathy Beck voted against the motion. Campbell and Hutchins voted for it. In the event of a tie, the mayor makes the final vote. James voted not to accept Option #1.
As a result, liquidated damages will continue to be charged during the winter shutdown. However, this vote does not mean the council has officially approved Option 3. The final decision will, most likely, be left for the incoming council to make.
December 8, 2022 |
More details on the Christmas parade in Saratoga Saturday night when Santa and Mrs. Claus will be escorted through town with great holiday fanfare.
The Valley Service Organization sponsors the Christmas parade each year. Bigfoot 99 spoke with Judy Hamel, the VSO’s Christmas Magic Lighted Parade and Winter Wonderland organizer. She said, after taking over from the Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce three years ago, her organization has worked to make the parade bigger and better.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Christmas-Parade-1.mp3As the organizer, Hamel has worked to expand the parade each year. She said, for the first time, there will be a parade marshal. Local resident, and VSO member, Tina Francis, will lead the parade.
Along with the marshal, Hamel said she has nearly 20 entrants in the parade. She expects more by the end of the week. She added that number doesn’t take into account every vehicle participating.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Christmas-Parade-2.mp3Pictured above: Photo courtesy Saratoga VFD.
In the past, the Saratoga Fire Department has carried Santa and Mrs. Claus along the parade route to the Winter Wonderland outside of the Platte Valley Community Center. Hamel said she called fire chief, Pat Waliser, to make sure his fire company would be willing to continue the tradition. She said Waliser wanted to have Saratoga’s newest truck in the parade, but it wouldn’t be available in time. He suggested inviting Hanna’s fire department to participate.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Christmas-Parade-3.mp3Hamel said Chief Waliser offered to invite fire departments from other towns to bring trucks to the parade. The VSO parade organizer said that would make the event even better.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Christmas-Parade-4.mp3The parade will begin at 5 p.m. on South River Street, leaving from the Platte Valley Clinic parking lot. The decorative floats will wind past the Saratoga Care Center for residents to see and enjoy.
The original plan was to have the parade continue from the assisted living center north along River Street and onto Bridge Avenue, but ongoing roadwork from the Spring Avenue Waterline Replacement and Paving Project may force Hamel to alter the route. The parade organizer said she may not know the exact path until the day of the parade.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Christmas-Parade-5.mp3No matter what path the parade takes, it will end at the PVCC. In the parking lot, Hamel and other VSO volunteers will have the Winter Wonderland set up. Hamel said there will be decorations, food, and a very special guest.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Christmas-Parade-6.mp3Hamel said she loves how the parade brings the community together. She recounted a story from last year’s event that left an impression on her.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Christmas-Parade-7.mp3The Valley Service Organization’s Christmas Magic Lighted Parade begins at 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 10th. When the guests of honor, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, reach the Platte Valley Community Center, the Winter Wonderland officially begins.
December 8, 2022 |
If you’re unleashing your inner Clark Griswold this holiday season in Rawlins, folks may not need a map to find your decorated house. It’s visible from the Space Station. For those whose idea of Christmas lights hung from the house with care is more subtle and down to earth, you can share your location with the annual holiday display map.
For the third year in a row, the City of Rawlins is compiling a map and photo album of homes and businesses lit up for the holidays. Public Information Officer Mira Miller said the map does not list specific addresses or names, only the general area. Miller said about 20 houses were on last year’s map.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Mira-Miller-1.mp3Having the map saves time and gas. You can print out the map or use your smartphone to hit the bright spots. Miller said it’s easy to have your house listed on the map.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1208_Mira-Miller-2.mp3Last year’s map included some great photos of houses that even Clark Griswold might be envious of. To participate call 328-4500 extension 1022 or visit rawlinswy.gov/holidaymap.
December 7, 2022 |
The U.S. and Wyoming flags are at half-mast today in recognition of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Governor Mark Gordon, in accordance with a presidential proclamation, ordered flags to be flown at half-staff until midnight tonight to commemorate the patriots who perished or were wounded and who on December 7, 1941.
Over the course of nearly two hours during the Sunday morning surprise attack, a fleet of Japanese fighters and bombers assaulted the American naval base at Pearl Harbor in hopes of crippling the US Navy for the duration of World War II.
In total, 2,403 Americans were killed during the attack. Most the dead, 2,008, were enlisted with the Navy, 218 were members of the US Army, 109 were Marines, and 68 were civilians.
Pictured above: A U.S. battleship sinking during the Pearl Harbor attack.
National Archives, Washington, D.C.
December 7, 2022 |
‘Tis the season for festive holiday entertainment throughout Carbon County. The Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce is hosting several events in Saratoga this weekend.
The festivities kick off this Friday with the Festival of Trees at the Platte Valley Community Center. All 230 tickets for this annual fundraiser have been sold. Decorated Christmas trees, wreathes, and Yuletide gift bundles will be on display in the Platte Valley Community Center Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fundraiser gala starts at 6 p.m. with drinks and appetizers. An auction will begin an hour later, at 7 p.m.
Amanda Knotwell, CEO of the Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce said she is still in the process of assembling all the auction items that will be up for bid Friday. Businesses, organizations and individuals, have until today to turn in their entries. Knotwell described some of the holiday pieces she has received already.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_PV-Chamber-Christmas-1.mp3Tickets for the Festival of Trees were $40 a person or $600 to sponsor a table of 8. Tickets available past December 2nd would have cost an additional $10 each. All tickets were sold out before that could happen. Proceeds from the auction usually go to support a local charity, but Knotwell said, with no big winter event, the Chamber will keep the entirety of the money.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_PV-Chamber-Christmas-2.mp3Saturday, December 10th, is the Christmas Magic Lighted Parade and Winter Wonderland sponsored by Valley Service Organization (VSO). Parade participants will gather in the Platte Valley Clinic parking lot at 4:30 p.m. and end at the Platte Valley Community Center. The Chamber of Commerce CEO explained where the parade will go when it begins at 5 p.m.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_PV-Chamber-Christmas-3.mp3Hot chocolate will be available. Santa will on hand for pictures with the kids.
As of Tuesday, parts of the parade route were still blocked by construction. The Spring Avenue Waterline Replacement and Paving Project has sections of South River Street inaccessible to traffic. Representatives from Lewis & Lewis, the contractor responsible for the project, assured the town the streets would be passable before Saturday. Knotwell said the parade organizers have to wait to hear from the contractors before they know the exact route.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_PV-Chamber-Christmas-4.mp3Yesterday marked the beginning of the Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce’s reverse raffle. The first 150 tickets were drawn yesterday, with 100 more set for today. The final 50 tickets will be drawn tomorrow. Winners receive “Chamber Bucks” to be spent at businesses in town. The Chamber of Commerce CEO explained how the raffle works.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_PV-Chamber-Christmas-5.mp3Knotwell was busy Tuesday morning printing and cutting the individual tickets from sheets that she had produced.
Like Disney Dollars in the Magic Kingdom, the Chamber Bucks aren’t accepted everywhere. They can only be redeemed with active chamber members. Raffle tickets can be purchases at the chamber office in the Platte Valley Community Center, at 210 West Elm Avenue. Call Amanda Knotwell at 326-8855 for more details.
The Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring holiday events in the area. The Festival of Trees may be sold out, but Saratoga townspeople can still enjoy Saturday’s parade and Winter Wonderland. Santa Claus, himself, will find time in his busy schedule to be in the Platte Valley Community Center after the parade. He knows if you’ve been good or not.
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December 7, 2022 |
The Town of Dixon at the south end of Carbon County is moving forward with improvements to its wastewater lagoon system after successfully competing for a State Loan and Investment Board grant this year.
From July 1st to August 12th, the Wyoming State Land and Investments Board, or SLIB, accepted grant applications from towns, counties and other governments looking to use American Recovery Plan Act money for water and sewer infrastructure improvements. Of the 113 applications SLIB received, only 19 were approved for ARPA grants.
As reported by Bigfoot 99, the Town of Saratoga successfully lobbied SLIB for a $966,000 grant for the Spring Avenue Waterline Replacement and Paving Project. The Town of Encampment was also successful. Rawlins failed in its bid to win grant money for portions of its aging water infrastructure.
The town of Dixon also applied for a SLIB grant to make improvements to its wastewater treatment lagoons. Sarah Barber, Dixon’s Public Works Director, explained what the town intends to do with the money.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Dixon-ARPA-Grant-1.mp3Photo courtesy Town of Dixon/Facebook.
Wyoming is tightening their water treatment requirements by limiting the amount of organic pollution permitted in wastewater outflow. As in Encampment, Dixon’s treatment lagoon system is in need of an upgrade. Working with engineer Chris Lidstone of CDLidstone LLC in Fort Collins, Colorado, Dixon officials were able to put together a SLIB application that successfully granted them the full $575,000 they were asking for.
With the ARPA grant in hand, Barber said the town is seeking an engineering firm to create the plan needed to improve their lagoon system.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Dixon-ARPA-Grant-2.mp3During the November 8th Dixon Town Council meeting, Mayor Melodie Seilaff said the town would like to contract with Brandon Noble of HDR in Cheyenne to helm the lagoon improvement project. The public works director said Noble has worked with the town in the past.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Dixon-ARPA-Grant-3.mp3According to HDR’s website, the Gateway West Transmission line was a project to construct 1,000 miles of new high voltage lines from Glenrock, Wyoming to Melba, Idaho. Noble worked with the town of Dixon to complete the project last May.
Bigfoot 99 was unable to obtain a statement from Nobel about the Dixon lagoon project.
While Dixon’s lagoon improvement project has yet to begin, the ARPA funding means they are able to get the ball rolling.
December 7, 2022 |
307 GoFast on Ice is holding its inaugural ice racing tournament on Saratoga Lake in early 2023. Competitors from across the region are invited to participate in any of the multiple categories of events that will be staged on two Saturdays, one in January and the other in February.
Illegally stocked yellow perch were discovered in Saratoga Lake during last year’s Ice Fishing Derby. This summer, Wyoming Game and Fish initiated a successful kill-off using a toxin called rotenone. The state wildlife agency’s goal was to empty the lake of all fish and, next spring, stock it with farm raised trout.
With the lake devoid of fish, the 2022 Saratoga Ice Fishing Derby has been canceled. Tyler Roy, co-owner of 307 GoFast, said it was the perfect time to organize an ice racing competition on the water.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Ice-Races-1.mp3Inspired by similar competitions in Walden, Colorado, the 307 GoFast team wanted to introduce ice racing to Saratoga. Roy said he wants to start small. Only 3 types of vehicles can to participate.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Ice-Races-2.mp3Participants will need ice racing tires to gain traction on the frozen lake. Because of the increased risk, Roy said specialized safety equipment will be mandated in the rule set. He added the 307 GoFast team are still putting the finishing touches on their rule book. It will be on their Facebook page when all regulations have been finalized.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Ice-Races-3.mp3Held on the southern tip of Saratoga Lake, the oval track was designed by Phillip Smith, a fellow 307 GoFast organizer. Roy said he and his team have settled on the shape of the circuit, but they will need information about ice thickness to determine the exact layout.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Ice-Races-4.mp3Races will be held on January 14th and February 11th. The 307 GoFast co-owner said vendors will be on site during the event. Sanitary facilities and garbage cans are being donated by local companies. There is an admission fee. Roy said volunteers will be stationed around the area to sell tickets.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Ice-Races-5.mp3Spectators aren’t the only people the 307 GoFast team are trying to attract. Roy said, in order for the event to be a success, they need as many participants as possible.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Ice-Races-6.mp3Entry fees for race participants are $100 a vehicle for either the January or February race, or $180 to participate in both. Money collected from the entry fees will be awarded to the top three winners of each vehicle class. Roy said, at this time, he wasn’t willing to delve into the specifics of how the money will be portioned out.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Ice-Races-7.mp3The 307 GoFast team are purposely keeping this year’s event small in case they are unable to attract many competitors. Roy said he hopes the inaugural ice race is a large enough success to make it a regular event. He said he would like to expand into other types of racing.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Ice-Races-8.mp3Roy said the 307 GoFast on Ice event is his way of offering Saratoga residents another winter activity. If the event is a success, he said he hopes to also host races in the spring on some of the area’s mountain roads. Susan Smith, another 307 GoFast organizer echoed Roy’s desire to help the town and start a new tradition.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1207_Ice-Races-9.mp3The first ever 307 GoFast on Ice will be held on the southern tip of Saratoga Lake on January 14th and February 11th. Side by sides, ATVs, and dirt bikes are welcome to participate. Race fees are $100 for one day or $180 for both. All entry fees will be awarded to the top three finishers in each vehicle class. Call Tyler Roy at 321-7141 or Susan Smith at 321-1404, or visit the 307 GoFast Facebook page for more information. All drivers and passengers are required to have suitable safety equipment.
The full rule set will be posted on the 307 GoFast Facebook page in the near future.
Tyler Roy and the other 307 GoFast organizers are hoping to bring more motorsports into the Valley. Their 307 GoFast on Ice is being used as a test bed, of sorts, to gauge the public’s interest in hosting more of these types of events.
December 6, 2022 |
The Wyoming Legislature’s Joint Appropriations Committee (JAC) will conduct supplemental budget hearings starting Thursday. A live video stream will be available on the Wyoming Legislature’s YouTube channel.
Governor Mark Gordon will open the meeting with his proposed supplemental budget.
The hearings and mark-up of the governor’s budget recommendations will be conducted in Room E301 of the Wyoming State Capitol Thursday and Friday and again in mid-December, the 12th through the 16th. The full schedule and associated materials are available on the Legislature’s website.
Each state agency or department making a supplemental budget request will appear before the JAC during budget hearings.
Among the agencies appearing this week are the University of Wyoming, county and prosecuting attorneys, the state attorney general’s office, the Wyoming military Department and the State Supreme Court.
A supplemental budget request occurs in the event an agency believes it needs additional funding or for purposes of funding reductions to the agency’s approved 2023-2024 biennial budget. Once the hearings are complete, the Committee will then “work” the budgets and approve, deny, or modify each request. The full Legislature will debate and approve the supplemental budget during the 2023 General Session, which convenes on January 10th.
December 6, 2022 |
The Town of Medicine Bow wants to make the process of purchasing of abandoned properties in its community less costly for buyers.
Ordinance 3-2022 is being drafted as an amendment to an existing law. It puts a cap on utility charges owed to the town once the property goes into lien.
Medicine Bow municipal code requires a monthly water and sewer utility charge for all plots of land in town. When a property owner doesn’t pay their utility service fees, the town will issue a lien in order to recoup some of the lost revenue.
Mayor Sharon Biamon explained what the town hopes to accomplish with the new ordinance.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Med-Bow-Liens-01.mp3Without the amended ordinance, Medicine Bow will continue to charge utility fees to the land owner, even if the property is clearly abandoned. Some of the parcels may be empty for years with the meter running nonstop. Mayor Biamon said unpaid liens may prevent people from purchasing real estate from the town.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Med-Bow-Liens-02.mp3If a person offers to buy a plot of land that has a lien issued against it, they must pay the lien to obtain a clear deed. Mayor Biamon said some properties can have liens totaling $4,000. The mayor said the town will generally put a lien on a property when unpaid utility bills reach $200, however, the number isn’t set in stone. She said the town council is working on a different ordinance that will codify the total amount of money a property owner owes before the town takes legal action.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Med-Bow-Liens-03.mp3The supposed need for the ordinance was brought up by two individuals during the October 10th town council meeting. Mr. and Mrs. Worthington told the council they, and a family member, had purchased 10 parcels of property in a tax sale. According to the meeting minutes, the Worthington’s said most of the landowners were deceased and their heirs no longer cared about the properties. With a lien totaling $12,191.68 for all 10 lots, the Worthington’s asked the town council to forgive the entire amount. Mr. and Mrs. Worthington said, by not waiving the lien, the town would be discouraging people from purchasing delinquent tax property in the future.
Mayor Biamon offered to forgive half of the lien amount, telling the Worthington’s the town had expenses associated with the properties. Medicine Bow’s attorney, Robert Piper, said the town didn’t want to set a precedence for forgiving liens.
Fast forward to the November 14th Medicine Bow town council meeting. An amendment was proposed to town ordinance number 19.5.104, the section of the municipal code that established the monthly utility fee. Councilmember Lucinda Schofield explained the amendment would alter the existing law to cease utility charges once the town placed a lien on a property. Ordinance 3-2022 passed on 1st reading, with all members of the council voting for it. The ordinance will receive a second reading during December 12th’s town council meeting.
Mayor Biamon wasn’t able to provide an exact number of how many properties in the town have unpaid utility liens, but she said it was “quite a few.” The mayor said the ordinance change would help attract buyers to the abandoned properties.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Med-Bow-Liens-04.mp3After complaints about high utility liens placed on vacant properties by the town, the Medicine Bow council has drafted an ordinance change to halt the recurring charge once the lien is issued. The December 12th meeting will be the second reading of the ordinance.
December 6, 2022 |
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is seeking public input regarding changes to their black bear hunting policies.
The agency held a public information meeting on November 28th in Laramie to present proposed changes to the 2023/2025 black bear hunting seasons. Other Big game animal seasons, such as elk and mule deer, are reviewed every year. Trophy animals like black bears and mountain lions are analyzed every three years. Wyoming Game and Fish Biologist Teal Cufaude explained why there is a difference.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Black-Bear-Season-1.mp3Photo courtesy of WGFD.
Wyoming Game and Fish biologists use information from the black bear hunting season to determine what, if any, changes are required for the next three years. Cufaude said between 50 and 70 bears are killed each season. She said her department uses data collected from hunters to make recommendations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Black-Bear-Season-2.mp3Cufaude said due to their elusive nature, black bear populations are difficult to estimate. In most hunting areas, WGFD relies on harvested bears to devise an estimate of how many of the species may inhabit an area. The wildlife biologist said the Sierra Madres are unique because studies have been done in the mountains here.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Black-Bear-Season-3.mp3The data collected in the Sierra Maderas was gathered using hair snare traps. These strands of barbed wire are deployed where bears are suspected to travel. When a black bear brushes against the wire, tufts of fur are pulled off. Scientists are able to obtain DNA from the hair and determine the age and sex of the animal. Cufaude said she is hoping to arrange a similar study in the Snowy Range.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Black-Bear-Season-4.mp3Cufaude said the proposed changes focus on the Snowy Range and Sierra Madres. Both areas have female bear quotas. The wildlife biologist explained how the black bear season differs from traditional big game.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Black-Bear-Season-5.mp3At the November 28th meeting, WGFD outlined their proposed changes for the 2023 through 2025 black bear hunting seasons. In the Snowy Range, Cufaude said the state wildlife agency focused on extending the amount of hunting time in both the fall and spring.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Black-Bear-Season-6.mp3Cufaude said the agency is not recommending any changes to the female black bear limit for the Snowy Range. It is set for nine kills in the spring and eight in the fall. Once the quota is hit, hunting stops, even if there is time left over in the season. The wildlife biologist said lengthening the hunting season should give people a better chance to reach the mortality limits.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Black-Bear-Season-7.mp3For the Sierra Maderas, WGFD is not offering to extend the hunting season. Instead, Cufaude said, they would like to raise the number of female black bears killed. The 2021 Black Bear Hunting Guide shows the quota at 10 females in the spring and nine in the fall.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Black-Bear-Season-8.mp3The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is holding meetings to review its proposed changes to the black bear hunting season. The public information gathering meeting in Laramie was on November 28th, but there will be another in Green River on December 5th and Lander on December 6th. Cufaude said people can go to the WGFD website to view and comment on the recommendations.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1206_Black-Bear-Season-9.mp3According to the Wyoming Game and Fish website, the public comment period closes at 5pm on December 14th. All comments will be presented to the Game and Fish Commission before their January 11th and 12th meetings.
Every three years, WGFD use data collected from bears killed by hunters to review their black bear hunting policies. For the Snowy Range, WGFD are recommending an extended hunting season. In the Sierra Madres, increased kill limits are being considered. Meetings are being held around the area to gauge the public’s reaction to these potential changes.
December 6, 2022 |
Governor Mark Gordon invites the public to attend the 2023 Governor’s Prayer Breakfast. This year’s event features keynote speaker Anne Beiler, founder of Auntie Anne’s, the world’s largest hand-rolled soft pretzel franchise.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_Annie-Pretzel.mp3The business began as a stand at a Farmer’s Market and is now located in food courts at shopping malls around the country. Beiler’s journey towards success began many years before she rolled the first pretzel, when she and her husband experienced any parent’s worst nightmare – the loss of a child. Her faith-based journey from personal despair to professional success is inspiring.
The Governor’s Prayer Breakfast will take place at 6:30 am on February 15th, 2023 at Little America Hotel and Resort.
Individual tickets to the Prayer Breakfast are on sale through the Governor’s Prayer Breakfast website. Tickets are $50 each and are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Wyoming Governor’s Prayer Breakfast traces its origin to the National Prayer Breakfast tradition, held annually in Washington, D.C. since 1953. The breakfast is non-denominational and nonpartisan.
December 5, 2022 |
Rawlins City Council has approved $10,000 in funding to help hire a legal specialist to develop a plan for cleaning up abandoned buildings.
Many Wyoming communities face a similar problem. Buildings constructed in the early part of the 20th century have little or no historic value, don’t live up today’s architectural standards and are too costly to restore. Some structures are worthy of saving. Many are not and have been abandoned by their owners, who have passed the problem onto local city governments and creditors.
During the October 18th Rawlins City Council meeting, Cheyenne Councilman Pete Laybourn explained the problem these vacant buildings present. Laybourn has faced the same problem in Cheyenne with no success.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_Dangeous-Building-Fund-01.mp3Pictured above: The Budget Inn, located on Spruce Street in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
In 2011, State Representative Donald Burkhart, brought House Bill number HB0197 to the Wyoming legislature. Called the Nuisance Abatement Bill, it allowed cities to collect fines from negligent property owners to pay for the cleanup of abandoned and dangerous buildings. It did not pass.
In 2021, the Wyoming Association of Municipalities, or WAM, began to lobby the Wyoming legislature to allocate funding sources for cities to rebuild or demolish dangerous buildings.
Councilman Laybourn said it’s tough to convince state lawmakers to allow towns to use their own judgement in this matter.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_Dangeous-Building-Fund-02.mp3The Cheyenne councilman said he attempted to introduce an ordinance in his hometown allowing the city to hold the title on dangerously neglected structures. As it stands, a bank usually owns the lien on a derelict property. If the city bought that building and paid to clean it up, after it was sold, there wouldn’t be any money left for the city to recoup its costs. All the money would go to the original lien holders. Councilman Laybourn said the bankers and realtors did not like that idea. He said he explained to them how his plan would be beneficial to everyone.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_Dangeous-Building-Fund-03.mp3Remediating one neglected building can be costly. In a city like Rawlins with multiple abandoned buildings, the expense is huge. Councilman Laybourn said he doesn’t think the state lawmakers in Cheyenne understand the extent of the issue.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_Dangeous-Building-Fund-04.mp3Knowing the scope of the problem, Councilman Laybourn came to the October 13th Rawlins council meeting to propose a partnership. He said he would like the city of Rawlins, Cheyenne and WAM to work together on a plan to handle the problem of nuisance buildings.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_Dangeous-Building-Fund-05.mp3Councilman Laybourn asked the Rawlins city council to back his plan to hire a specialist to assess the counties options regarding abandoned buildings. If necessary, that person could then craft a bill to present to the Wyoming legislature. The Cheyenne councilman said they need to make sure they have as much information as possible before bringing anything before the state government.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_Dangeous-Building-Fund-06.mp3Councilman Laybourn asked the city of Rawlins to cover $10,000 of the cost of hiring the specialist. The funding was approved by the city council.
Using the $10,000, Councilman Laybourn intends to hire someone to try to find a way to allow the city of Rawlins to recoup abatement costs on neglected buildings. As it stands now, the city can put a lien on a property, but, as the most recent lien holder, they go to bottom of stack. If the city cleans up the property, and it is sold, all liens are paid in the order they were issued, meaning the city would be last. Most of the abandoned properties are not worth enough to pay back what the city would spend to clean them up. Councilman Laybourn said more information is the only way to fix the situation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_Dangeous-Building-Fund-07.mp3It is unknown whether Councilman Laybourn has found someone to hire for the task. The wheels of government turn slowly, but Laybourn said he would like to have a bill created as soon as possible.
December 5, 2022 |
On the agenda for tomorrow night’s city council meeting is the third and final reading of a new ordinance regulating the delivery of alcoholic beverages within Rawlins Municipal Limits.
The ordinance has changed since first reading when the original language allowed third-party contractors, such as an Uber-type service, to make home delivery of beer and alcohol. In the draft at Tuesday night’s third reading, only retail liquor licensees, permit holders, and winery permit holders may deliver alcoholic liquors or malt beverages to customers.
City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade explained the reason for the change, saying it was meant to “centralize responsibility,” putting the onus for responsible home delivery liquor sales on the drinking establishments themselves.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_Alcohol-Delivery-1.mp3Mayor Terry Weickum, who voted to approve the ordinance on first reading, said he had second thoughts. The mayor said the ordinance could open the city to potential legal liability if the home delivery of alcohol ended in some type of abuse or tragedy.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_Alcohol-Delivery-2.mp3The council chamber was at full capacity during the meeting with members of the public attending there for another issue on the agenda that night. Several spoke on the bar delivery issue. One man expressed concern that home delivery of booze could contribute to alcoholism. A woman, frustrated that the city appeared to be over-regulating businesses, said other cities allow it and Rawlins should, too.
The city attorney said local businesses had approached the city to allow the home delivery service. Ordinance 5.08.425, Delivery of Alcoholic Liquors and Malt Beverages as amended passed second reading at the last regular council meeting on a 4-3 vote.
The no votes at the November 15th reading were Mayor Weickum and councilmembers Debari Martinez and Linda Smith.
Third and final reading is set for Tuesday night, December 6.
December 5, 2022 |
The Christmas season has begun here in Carbon County. Christmas parades, Christmas concerts, nativity scenes are all part of the celebrations happening around the area.
Even the Carbon County Museum is offering Christmas activities. Intended for the entire family, you may even meet the big man himself, Santa Claus.
Next Saturday, December 17th, is the first Christmas Open House at the Carbon County Museum in Rawlins. From 10 in the morning, until 5 at night, Thomas Mensik, the new museum director, is offering a selection of things to do. Mensik, who joined the museum in September, described what will be on offer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_CC-Museum-Open-House-1.mp3Pictured above: File photo of the Carbon County Museum. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
The raffle basket will contain donations from local businesses, such as gift cards, and items from the museum itself. Tickets are $3 a piece, with no purchase limit. Mensik talked about another way to acquire raffle tickets.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_CC-Museum-Open-House-2.mp3Canned good donations go to the St. Vincent De Paul Society in Rawlins. St. Vincent is a nation-wide faith-based charity organization focused on helping the needy. The Carbon County Museum director said one of the goals of his Christmas Open House is to gather food donations for the community.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_CC-Museum-Open-House-3.mp3Mensik said, last month, he and the museum’s Visitors’ Services Manager Kelia McCuddy noticed a blank spot on the county’s holiday calendar. He said they wanted to offer another activity for people to do during the Christmas season.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_CC-Museum-Open-House-4.mp3The museum director said he and McCuddy are doing the majority of the Christmas Open House by themselves. He would like to find people willing to help set up and run the event. Mensik said to call the museum if you would like to volunteer.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_CC-Museum-Open-House-5.mp3Mensik mentioned one person he wrangled into volunteering at the Open House. A very special guest will be making an appearance at the museum.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_CC-Museum-Open-House-6.mp3With such an auspicious guest, folks are going to need to know exactly when and where the Carbon County Museum’s Christmas Open House will be. The museum director had the details.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_CC-Museum-Open-House-7.mp3Mensik said he wanted to expand the museum’s scope and presence when he took the director’s position in the fall. To achieve his goal, Mensik created a Carbon County Museum YouTube channel. Featuring videos donated by Ricky Durant, who’s relative, Thomas Durant, helped build the Union Pacific railroad, viewers are able to see how the area looked in the late 50’s and early 60’s. Mensik said he’ll also be starting a museum podcast sometime next year. The director was tight lipped about any of his other future ideas.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1205_CC-Museum-Open-House-8.mp3Mensik said he is working on ways to invite more people to enjoy the county’s museum system. The Christmas Open House is one plan he’s been able to make a reality. Mensik said he has big changes in store for the museum next year.
The Carbon County Museum’s Christmas Open House is on December 17th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
December 2, 2022 | Thursday’s strong winds knocked out electricity for over an hour to some Carbon Power and Light members at the south end of the Platte Valley, including the Town of Encampment. The outage forced the K-12 school there to close early. Carbon Power & Light’s General Manager, Russell Waldner, explained what happened […]
December 2, 2022 | A Saratoga man charged with intentionally taking a big game animal out of season failed to reach a settlement with Carbon County prosecutors during a plea deal conference this week. As reported by Bigfoot 99, Tom Arthur was issued a citation by a Wyoming Game and Fish Warden for illegally shooting […]
December 2, 2022 | The day-to-day grind of a real-life game warden in Carbon County may not be as wild and as and as full of international intrigue as the fictional Joe Pickett’s in a C.J. Box novel, but Levi Wood still has plenty to investigate. With the 2022 season drawing to a close, Bigfoot […]
December 2, 2022 | Governor Mark Gordon has filed a second lawsuit against the Biden White House over the decision to “pause” oil and gas lease sales required under federal law. After Biden took over the White House in 2021, the Bureau of Land Management went 18 months without a single oil and gas lease […]
December 2, 2022 | Raise your glass and open your wallet for the Saratoga Museum’s Toast to History. The Saratoga Museum will hold its annual fundraiser called Toast to History. Leslie Jefferson, the CEO of the Carbon County Visitors’ Council, described the event. The event will be held at the Platte Valley Community Center. Local […]
December 1, 2022 | In Rawlins, as the city fights with one of its licensed trash haulers over landfill fees and other issues, officials are in the midst of reviewing the fees charged at the municipal transfer station. Finance Director and Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey is putting the finishing touches on an overdue landfill […]
December 1, 2022 | Saratoga Town Council faces a tough decision as it deals with the contractor who fell behind schedule with the Spring Avenue waterline and street paving project. The town can play hardball and stick to the terms of the contract which include fees and penalties of nearly $2,000 per day throughout the […]
December 1, 2022 | The White House is looking at another drawdown of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and Wyoming Senator John Barrasso is asking questions. Joe Biden’s apparently unlimited support of Ukraine in the proxy war with Russia is driving up oil prices and lowering supply. Even European allies, facing heating shortages and rationing this […]
November 30, 2022 | The high-country section of WYO 70 over Battle Pass in southern Carbon County closed for the winter season on Tuesday. The WYDOT highway crews in Saratoga and Baggs which maintain roadway decided weather forecasts and current conditions warranted closing the 23-mile section of 70 through the pass. Crews reported strong winds […]
November 30, 2022 | In Saratoga, Erik Nelson has passed away at the age of 81. Born in Denver on March 14, 1941, Erik was adopted by Dr. John Nelson and Marion Nelson. He earned two degrees from Colorado State University where he became a life-long Rams fan. After working for several years at the […]
November 30, 2022 | South Central Wyoming EMS wants to expand their roster using quick responders. As reported by Bigfoot 99 earlier in the month, SCWEMS Board Member Penny Layman visited the Encampment Town Council to ask for a resolution allowing SCWEMS to apply for a Wyoming Department of Health ARPA grant. Encampment wasn’t the […]
November 30, 2022 | Law enforcement agencies across southern Wyoming were busy on Saturday November 12th — the date of the Border War. This year’s rivalry football game between Wyoming and CSU was played in Fort Collins. As promised, police had extra patrols in place to enforce impaired driving laws. According to a release out […]
November 30, 2022 | In Washington, the Respect for Marriage Act passed the Senate with Wyoming’s Cynthia Lummis joining 11 other Republicans in the 61-36 vote. Wyoming’s other senator, John Barrasso, voted no. The bill writes into federal law what the U.S. Supreme Court settled in its 2015 Obergefell v Hodges ruling, namely that the […]
November 29, 2022 | A Saratoga man charged with poaching a trophy deer out season is hoping to negotiate a deal with prosecutors to avoid standing stand trial. Tom Arthur earlier pled “not guilty” to the charge.” A lot of area hunters are watching the case to see how the justice system works when the […]
November 29, 2022 | If Liz Cheney’s crushing defeat in the Primary Election this summer wasn’t enough of a political barometer, a new poll from UW makes it official. Donald Trump is popular in Wyoming. Despite the former president’s vilification in the mainstream media and throughout the summer in Cheney’s one-side prosecution in the January […]
November 29, 2022 | After facing some backlash at home because of a vote in Washington earlier this month, Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis announced that she will support Utah Senator Mike Lee’s religious liberty amendment to the gay marriage bill. Lummis was among 12 Republicans who voted with Democrats earlier this month to advance the […]
November 28, 2022 | Come January, there will be a new sheriff in town. In an outcome that may have surprised some, Patrol Deputy Alex Bakken was elected Carbon County’s newest sheriff in this month’s general election. Bakken, like other Republicans in contested races, finished strong. He defeated his more experienced opponent, Morris with 71% […]
November 28, 2022 | A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the Sierra Madre and Snowy Mountain Ranges due to potentially heavy and accumulating snow early this week. Snow will likely begin Monday night and fall through the day on Tuesday. The mountains could pick up 8 to 14 inches of snow, especially for […]
November 28, 2022 | Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis has put her conservative political brand on the line for HR 8404. Proponents of the Respect for Marriage Act say, “Love is love.” The bill, which would codify gay marriage at the federal level, is up for a critical vote today in the Senate. Its bipartisan supporters […]
November 28, 2022 | Carbon County residents put the giving in Thanksgiving this year. Multiple events centered around the annual holiday tradition of feasting fed well over a thousand area people over the last week. Many folks volunteer to serve free Thanksgiving meals to their community. The Sinclair Baptist Church is one such organization. Terri […]
November 23, 2022 | A family home outside Riverside was destroyed in a fire early Sunday morning despite efforts of firefighters from across the Platte Valley. Encampment Fire Chief Cory Nuhn said a 911 call was placed at 8:57 a.m. Sunday morning. Firefighters responded immediately, but Chief Nuhn said the home was a total loss […]
November 23, 2022 | In Saratoga, progress on the Spring Avenue waterline replacement project continues as Lewis & Lewis get ready to shut down for the season. With time running out, town officials want to know what will be done before the contractor leaves. At Tuesday’s weekly meeting between town officials and Lewis & Lewis, […]
November 23, 2022 | The Rawlins City Council has formed a local water working group to collaborate with State Senator Larry Hicks of Baggs on issues related to the city’s water infrastructure. Sen. Hicks is Vice Chair of the Wyoming Legislature’s Select Water committee, which focuses on water infrastructure issues and the monies needed to […]
November 23, 2022 | Chronic Wasting Disease continues to be a health issue for Wyoming’s big game herds. On November 15th at the Platte Valley Community Center Wyoming Game and Fish biologists held a public meeting to discuss CWD and the impacts the disease is having. Martin Hicks is wildlife management coordinator with state the […]
November 22, 2022 | You are welcome to Wyoming, but you are not invited to the steal the “Welcome to Wyoming” signs. WYDOT reports an increase in stolen highway signs across southeast Wyoming. The favorite targets are “Welcome to Wyoming” or “Entering Wyoming.” All the other signs are being pilfered, too, including stop signs and […]
November 22, 2022 | Upcoming health department inspections aren’t the only obstacle facing the new hospital in Saratoga. Originally slated to begin operations in August, delays of key electrical components have pushed the opening date of the North Platte Valley Medical Center to early 2023. Will Faust, chairman of the NPVMC board, said he expects […]
November 22, 2022 | Coming around the bend may not be a train, but a nationwide railroad strike. The chances of a crippling freight strike deepened Monday with a split decision among affected worker unions over a White House-backed labor agreement. Train and engine service members with SMART-TD rejected the terms of the new contract […]
November 22, 2022 | The Salvation Army is looking for bell-ringers this holiday season in Rawlins. Tink Day, local organizer for the Salvation Army, said volunteers are needed to collect donations in the traditional kettle pots. With stations set up at Walmart and City Market, Day—said she needs people for both places, specifically on Black […]
November 22, 2022 | The Saratoga Museum’s first ever model train show started on the right track over the weekend. The event was held Saturday in the Platte Valley Community Center. The Saratoga Museum Director Dana Davis said the event had been in the works for several months. Davis, who declined to have her comments […]
November 21, 2022 | In Rawlins, Dirty Boyz Sanitation was back in business Saturday collecting garbage after city council restored its trash haulers license Friday during a hastily called special session. Council restored the company’s license after a temporary agreement was reached in the legal feud over the municipality’s flow-control ordinance. Under the terms of […]
November 21, 2022 | Last Thursday’s workshop between the Saratoga Town Council, the Impact Joint Powers Board and Lewis and Lewis was canceled. During the November 15th town council meeting, the council members scheduled a special workshop with the Spring Avenue waterline replacement contractor, Lewis and Lewis. Mayor Creed James explained what the meeting would […]
November 21, 2022 | Governor Mark Gordon presented his 2023-24 supplemental budget on Friday. Buoyed by rising commodity revenues in the energy sector, the state has enjoyed a relatively good year. Dark economic clouds are on the horizon, the governor cautioned. The governor pointed to the obvious signs that threaten the state’s well-being. They include […]
November 21, 2022 | The Grand Encampment Museum’s own Lynda Johnson has written a book about a woman connected to the town. Johnson is the GEM’s Clothing and Textile Curator. In the 1990’s, the museum received a donation of clothes, diaries, and other personal belongs of Ruth Johanna “Hettie” Kyner. As Johnson began to archive […]
Saratoga Museum Model Train Show at the Platte Valley Community Center on Saturday, November 19th, 2022. Photos by Matthew Copeland/Bigfoot 99.
November 18, 2022 | Rawlins City Council will meet in special session Friday night. Two items are on tonight’s agenda. The first item is to consider reinstating the trash haulers license to Dirty Boyz Sanitation that council revoked earlier this week. According to staff notes, the garbage collection company has apparently conceded on the major […]
November 18, 2022 | The absence of coal can be felt, not only in Hanna, but underneath the town, as well. The empty spaces left behind when the coal was removed as far as a century ago are causing problems today. Carbon County was founded on coal. It was responsible for the founding of Hanna. […]
November 18, 2022 | Carbon County’s fire protection district burnt up the ballot boxes with nearly 69 percent of voters opting for its creation. Earlier in the year, Carbon County Fire Warden John Rutherford held a series of presentations urging residents to vote for the creation of a fire protection district. Covering unincorporated areas, the […]
November 18, 2022 | Two churches in Medicine Bow are joining together this Sunday, November 18, to offer a free Thanksgiving dinner to all. The Chapel of the Plains and Wind City Church are sharing the bounty of their blessings with a community feast of turkey, ham and all the fixings. All are welcome to […]
November 17, 2022 | The Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is now offering advanced wound care. MHCC has partnered with Healogics, a Jacksonville, Florida based wound care specialist, to provide a new level of medical treatment to Carbon County residents. The Memorial Hospital of Carbon County in Rawlins opened their wound care center on November […]
November 17, 2022 | The leadership team of the Wyoming Frontier Prison in Rawlins presented something of a show-and-tell of this year’s Halloween tour Tuesday night. Tina Hill is the Historic Site Director for the Old Pen, as the Frontier Prison is also known. Hill, along with her board of directors, provided council with the […]
November 17, 2022 | Food trucks must now pick up the check if they want to do business in Saratoga. Ordinance 865, Saratoga’s statute for licensing mobile food vendors has passed on third reading. During Tuesday’s town council meeting, Councilman Jon Nelson motioned to have his mobile vending ordinance enacted into law. Ordinance 865, or […]
November 16, 2022 | Rawlins City Council Tuesday night revoked the trash hauler license of Dirty Boyz Sanitation. The reason: Dirty Boyz is violating the ordinance requiring commercial trash haulers to take municipal waste collected in the city to the the solid waste transfer station. The flow control ordinance was put into place in 2016 […]
November 16, 2022 | Time has run out on the Spring Avenue waterline replacement project. The cold weather has taken its toll on the project’s contractor, Lewis and Lewis. Repeated setbacks have caused the job to fall behind schedule. Originally, the project was supposed to be finished by mid-October. A waterlogged bore pit at Saratoga […]
November 16, 2022 | South Central Wyoming Emergency Medical Services needs an infusion of volunteers, stat! Penny Layman, the SCWEMS Encampment board member, said the entire state is experiencing trouble finding people for their emergency services programs. New people are needed without delay. Pictured above: Photo courtesy of South Central Wyoming Emergency Medical Services. At […]
November 15, 2022 | More details are emerging about the proposed Platte Valley Aquatic Center. Bigfoot 99 sat down with Nick Haderlie, the local man spearheading the project, to talk about the proposed aquatic center in Saratoga. Haderlie is an attorney for the Silver Spur Ranch. As reported by Bigfoot 99, he has spent the […]
November 15, 2022 | The City of Rawlins is again hanging out a suggestion box. City staff want you to share your ideas and suggestions. They’ve launched the third annual community survey. The survey is available at www.rawlinswy.gov/survey and on the city’s Facebook page. Physical copies can also be picked up and returned at city hall […]
November 14, 2022 | In Washington D.C., even as ballot counting continues in some states nearly a week after Election Day, the latest numbers indicate that Democrats will maintain control of the U.S. Senate next year. Next month’s runoff election in Georgia may tilt the balance of power one way or the other. If Republican […]
November 14, 2022 | Despite a year of trouble over its water infrastructure and uncertainty because the city audit was not completed, Rawlins now finds itself in a relatively good financial situation. At a council work session two weeks ago, Interim City Manager Tom Sarvey broke down the city’s financial picture in light of the […]
November 14, 2022 | In Encampment, the recent award of a $1.4 million grant from the Wyoming State Land and Investment Board (SLIB) means the town’s lagoon improvement project will move forward. As reported by Bigfoot 99 in June, the Encampment Town Council requested contractor bids for their lagoon upgrade project. North Fork Engineering’s Jon […]
November 11, 2022 | The results of Tuesday’s General Election in Carbon County are official. The Canvass Board completed its work on Thursday. The results are posted to the county website. Carbon County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett reports that the tallies are unchanged from the unofficial results. Bartlett said the election ran smoothly at the polls […]
November 11, 2022 | The Snowy Range Road closed for winter on Thursday. Recent snows and winds in the high country has been producing significant drifting at the upper elevations of the scenic byway. The WYDOT crews in Laramie and Saratoga decided upcoming weather forecasts and current road conditions warranted closing the section of WYO […]
October 24, 2022 | Still no identification of the human remains found south of Rawlins last week. A few new details of the discovery have emerged. The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office reported on Friday that a group of hunters from Wisconsin came across a rifle in vegetation on Sunday, October 16th. The hunters contacted a […]
October 24, 2022 | A Bigfoot 99 Exclusive The State Loan and Investment Board will meet Thursday, and Rawlins may be in for bad news. State officials will consider a request by the city for a $7.5 million grant to make water infrastructure improvements. According to the paperwork submitted to the SLIB ahead of the […]
October 24, 2022 | The year is off to a good start at Rawlins Middle School. Five years ago, the middle school began using a teaching philosophy they call “Colt Learning Lab”, or CLL. Fundamental Skills and Activities Coordinator, Ryan Puckett, explained a little more about what CLL means. Pictured above: Rawlins Middle School students […]
October 21, 2022 | Human remains found this week south of Rawlins are thought to be of missing hunter, Mark Strittmater. Almost three years ago, to the day, 44-year-old Mark Anthony Strittmater of Rawlins went missing while hunting elk. He was last heard from on October 19th, 2019. His truck was located on Forest Service […]
October 21, 2022 | Once again, Ellie Dana came before the Saratoga Town Council to seek approval to move her daycare into the clinic building. Located 1208 South River Street, the Corbett Medical Building is home to the Platte Valley Clinic. When the North Platte Valley Medical Center opens their doors early next year, the […]
October 21, 2022 | Big things are happening at the “big house,” all in the spirit of the season. The Halloween-style festivities at the Wyoming Frontier Prison in Rawlins kick off tonight with the Masquerade Ball fundraiser. Tina Hill, the prison’s Historic Director, invites people to attend the 7th Masquerade Ball. Held in A-Wing, the […]
October 20, 2022 | In Tom Sarvey’s first report to Rawlins City Council as interim city manager, the news was so good it received a couple of rounds of applause. Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99. Sarvey said he included a transmittal letter with the audit that councilmembers […]
October 20, 2022 | Hanna’s recreation director has asked the town council to rename the rec center in honor of the region’s history of coal production. The Town of Hanna owes its very existence to coal. Founded during the coal boom in 1889 to house miners and their families, coal is an integral part of […]
October 20, 2022 | With winter weather nearing, Lewis and Lewis are moving into the next phase of the Spring Avenue water line replacement project. Delays, stemming from ground water in the bore pit, caused the project to run past its original completion date. The pit, in front of Saratoga Town Hall, was dug to […]
October 19, 2022 | It’s safe to go in the water again. Saratoga Lake is free of rotenone and open for use again, although all the fish are gone until next year. The number of yellow perch found in the lake after last month’s fish kill-off surprised even the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. The […]
September 2, 2022 | A new body scanner at the jail will keep officers and inmates safe. The Carbon County Jail and Communications Center recently installed a state-of-the art Tek84 Intercept X-ray body scanner. This high-tech machine takes a detailed look at an inmate’s anatomy. A detention officer can see if the inmate is hiding […]
September 2, 2022 | The current rate water users in Rawlins pay on their monthly bills does not cover the cost of service and a rate increase is required. This is the conclusion contained in 107-page analysis provided to the city last week by a rate specialist Carl Brown. The city hired Brown to evaluate […]
September 2, 2022 | The Grand Encampment Museum has received a national education award. On September 1st, the Oregon-California Trails Association presented the Grand Encampment Museum with the OCTA Outstanding Educator Award. Cathy Lynch, education coordinator at the GEM, is also being recognized by the OCTA for her work teaching children about life on the […]
September 2, 2022 | Laboratory testing has confirmed a rural Albany County cat died of plague, according to the Wyoming Department of Health. According to a release from the WDH, the cat lived primarily outdoors or in outbuildings in the Laramie area. Other cats in a group at the same location have also died during […]
September 2, 2022 | The Carbon County Higher Education Center is having an open house on Wednesday, September 14th. Jennifer Moore has been the executive director of the CCHEC since March. She has worked in higher education since 2015. She says she would like people to come down and see the new direction the CCHEC […]
September 1, 2022 | The Carbon County Clerk’s Office completed entering the voter registration changes ahead of this year’s Primary Election. In all, 335 Democrats switched to the Republican Party between January 1, 2022, through Election Day. Most of the party crossing occurred on the day of the Primary Election when 157 Democrats crossed lines […]
September 1, 2022 | The Carbon County Clerk’s office posted the names of the candidates who will appear on the General Election ballots in November. For the Fire Protection District board of directors, which Bigfoot 99 reported about on Monday, three candidates are running for the three four-year seats, including Homer Beach, James Piche and […]
September 1, 2022 | August has come and gone, and work continues at the North Platte Valley Medical Center. Earlier this year, NPVMC officials had set a soft date of sometime in August for a grand opening. As of this week, landscaping has not begun. Work on the exterior of the building continues. A key […]
September 1, 2022 | The hallowed date of 9/11, the day “we will never forget,” will be observed this year in Rawlins with a special event. Local resident Tink Day is again organizing a memorial stair climb and 5K run walk to commemorate the nation came to a standstill in the shadow of the horrific […]
September 1, 2022 | With summer’s end and back to school, the pool season in Saratoga draws to a close. The pool will officially close its doors on September 9th. Public swimming will end this Friday, September 2nd. Sarah Laughlin’s work doesn’t end there. Laughlin, a Saratoga native, has been the Director of the Saratoga […]
August 31, 2022 | In Rawlins, the city’s water storage tanks are refilling, but not fast enough for officials to lift the ban on watering lawns. Construction crews completed connecting the last of the new pipes to the springs south of town late last week, but stream flows have not increased as much as staff […]
August 31, 2022 | A Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper based in Cheyenne was arrested Tuesday on unspecified charges. According to a release, Sergeant Gabriel Testerman was removed from service and placed on administrative leave following his arrest. The Laramie County Sheriff’s Office made the arrest. The statement from the Highway Patrol said the investigation into […]
August 31, 2022 | The State of Wyoming is joining an ongoing legal fight against a coalition of environmental groups that filed two separate lawsuits in June challenging the federal oil and gas lease sale in Wyoming. The sale is the first in the state under President Joe Biden. Both lawsuits were filed by the […]
August 31, 2022 | The Platte Valley Arts Council is hosting their Grand Reveal Event on Saturday, September 3rd, at the Platte Valley Community Center. Bigfoot99 spoke with Stacy Crimmins, Project Coordinator for this event, who said that the Platte Valley Arts Council has been planning a large art exhibit for years. Thanks to a […]
August 30, 2022 | Several hundred ranchers, landowners and others from across the state attended the Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust Annual Roundup BBQ and Fundraiser held in Saratoga on Saturday. About 300 people turned out to enjoy the food, music, and auction. Among the attendees was the WGSLT Executive Director Jessica Crowder at the […]
August 30, 2022 | A brief update on the law enforcement action in Saratoga Saturday night during which an officer drew a gun and requested backup. The incident occurred on August 28th around 10:00 pm as Sargent Tyler Christen, performed a routine check at the hot pools. According to Chief Kenneth Lehr, Sargent Christen encountered […]
August 30, 2022 | Archery season antlered mule deer and white-tailed deer opens Thursday in several hunt areas here in Carbon County. Rifle season for doe or fawn white-tailed deer also opens this week in Hunt Areas 78, 79, 80 and 81. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is urging safety first to make sure […]
August 30, 2022 | In Rawlins, parking is an issue that is receiving new attention from both the city council and the police department. The campaign is two-pronged. It includes education and enforcement. Police Chief Michael Ward told Bigfoot 99 that the primary issue behind the effort is the safety of both motorists and pedestrians. […]
August 29, 2022 | Details of an incident in Saratoga on Saturday night are unclear, but two men were taken into custody near the hot pools in a situation where the officer reportedly draw his gun. Multiple backup units from the Sheriff’s Department and Encampment PD responded. Around 9:30 p.m. dispatch cautioned Saratoga police about […]
August 29, 2022 | Delays plague Spring Avenue water line project through the center of downtown Saratoga. Work began earlier this month to replace the water lines and repave the street from the old water treatment plant on River Street to the elementary school. As of now, the intersection of West Spring Avenue and South […]
August 29, 2022 | Today is the last day for residents of unincorporated areas of Carbon County to register as a candidate for the board of directors of the proposed Carbon County fire district. A fire protection district will be a ballot proposition for voters who reside outside of municipalities in the county in the […]
August 29, 2022 | Some people like to dig up the past. A few want to move the bones. Buffalo Bill Cody died on January 10, 1917. On his deathbed, he was baptized a Roman Catholic. The great frontiersman lived a life of rootin’-tootin’ action, and his body as known little peace in death. A […]
August 26, 2022 | In Rawlins, good news and bad news to report on the water situation. The final connections from the spring boxes south of town to the new 18-inch PVC line are nearly complete. Crews with RMI Construction report that flows are higher than expected. That’s great news in the long run for […]
August 26, 2022 | Everyone and their dog are invited to the new dog park in Rawlins. The long-anticipated recreation spot for people and their best friends will open Saturday. Parks and Recreation Director Jason Sehon said the required fencing to complete the park at Colorado and Daley Streets at Key Club Park was finished […]
August 26, 2022 | The Platte Valley Kiwanis Club is hosting a Touch-A-Truck event on Saturday, August 27th, at Kathy Glode Park in Saratoga from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring your kids, or just your inner kid, and climb inside of all sorts of different machines. There will be fire trucks, ambulances, logging trucks, […]
August 26, 2022 | The Grand Encampment Musuem is fired up over their new smelter diorama. GEM volunteers have combed through over a century of data to piece together a snapshot of the area’s mining past. On Wednesday morning, a group of GEM volunteers and history buffs trekked to the old smelter site on the […]
August 25, 2022 | President Joe Biden announced Wednesday that he will bypass Congress and wipe away up to $20,000 in student debt for some of the richest Americans in the country at tax-payer expense. In a sweeping test of presidential authority, Biden will forgive debts of up to $20,000 for students who went to […]
August 25, 2022 | Th Carbon County Commissioners replaced Jim Piche as buildings and grounds manager prior to the county fair last month. Interim Manager Mike Newbrough updated the board during its regular meeting held this week in Baggs. Pictured above: File photo of Carbon Building exterior. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99. The commissioners authorized […]
August 25, 2022 | In Saratoga, the State Health Department has told the town it must put up more gates around the hot pool as a safety measure. On August 9th an inspector from the Wyoming Department of Agriculture paid a visit to the Hobo Hot Springs. The yearly inspection turned up a costly violation. […]
August 25, 2022 | Carbon County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett provided commissioners with an election update this week. Bartlett began with an explanation about why voter turnout among registered Republicans was more than 100 percent. In the case of last week’s primary turnout among Republicans was 100.3 percent. Bartlett said the election audit on Thursday did […]
August 24, 2022 | Rawlins will host the second free landfill days event of the year in September. Residents will be sent one voucher in the mail. The voucher is good for one free load of residential and demolition waste to be dumped at the landfill between September 1st and the 30th. The voucher is […]
August 24, 2022 | In Saratoga, out-of-town food trucks able to operate without permits are leaving local restaurant owners frustrated. Town ordinances don’t address the operation of food trucks in anyway. No permits or fees are required. Times of operation or even location near existing restaurants aren’t specified, either. Town code is moot on mobile […]
August 24, 2022 | Traffic on county roads has increased this summer, County Road and Bridge Superintendent Kandis Fritz said yesterday. Fritz updated Carbon County Commissioners yesterday during their regular meeting, which was held in Baggs. Fritz said all of the mag chloride operations designed to minimize dust and loss of road surface on the […]
August 23, 2022 | Wyoming is reporting the first known case of monkeypox in the state. An adult male from Laramie County tested positive for the virus last week. Public health representatives are following up with people who may have had direct contact with the man. Because monkeypox spreads through close, intimate contact, Dr. Alexia […]
August 23, 2022 | In Rawlins, water levels in the storage tanks continue to rebound after dropping over the weekend to 30 percent. On Monday, the two low volume, high-pressure tanks were at 56 percent of capacity. The two bigger, low-pressure tanks south of the interstate had crept up to 46 percent. Because of their […]
August 23, 2022 | Needy travelers will no longer be stuck out in the cold thanks to St. Christopher’s Highway of Carbon County. The organization is new. Named after the patron saint of travelers, the program was formed in February of this year by Reverend Bobbe Fitzhugh, priest at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Rawlins, […]
August 23, 2022 | The preliminary results are in from the Steinley Cup Microbrew competition held this past Saturday in Saratoga. The event is the only official microbrew competition in Wyoming brings brewers from across the state to Veteran’s Island. Last year, 19 breweries went tap to tap for the coveted trophy. Official numbers aren’t […]
August 22, 2022 | The limited water use restrictions that went into effect Friday afternoon in Rawlins were partially lifted Sunday afternoon. Indoor water use has returned to normal, but watering lawns is still not allowed. The restrictions went into effect Friday when high turbidity levels forced the city to rely on the treated water […]
August 22, 2022 | Police officers in Saratoga could be wearing outdated body armor because of a budget oversight. Money believed to have been set aside to purchase new bullet proof vests for the police department could not be located within the current budget. The question became whether the vests were included in the budget […]
August 22, 2022 | In Rawlins, the latest recipient of the Community Builder Award is Damien Cesko. City Council recognized Cesko’s many contributions to the city by resolution at its regular meeting on August 2nd. Early this year, a committee comprised of city employees began recognizing volunteers or other residents who dedicate time and energy […]
August 22, 2022 | Anglers have a few more weeks to empty Saratoga Lake of as many fish as possible before Wyoming Game and Fish kills the rest. Creel and possession limits are still suspended ahead of the scheduled rotenone treatment scheduled for late September. Sportsmen are still required to have a valid fishing license […]
August 19, 2022 | The Saratoga Town Council remains short-handed. Ben Spaulding resigned his seat in July. During the council meeting on August 2nd, discussion of filling the empty council seat was postponed for two weeks to provide more time for potential applicants to express interest in the position. As of that time only one […]
August 19, 2022 | Call it the case of the floating foot. Officials at Yellowstone National Park report that part of foot was discovered in a shoe that was floating on the surface of the Abyss Pool in the West Thumb Geyser Basin at the southern end of the Park. An investigation in the grisly […]
August 19, 2022 | Funding for Wyoming schools is not keeping up with runaway inflation, says the Wyoming Education Association in a lawsuit filed Thursday in District Court in Cheyenne. The WEA’s 71-page legal complaint names the State of Wyoming as the Defendant. The associations claims that the legislature has failed its constitutional duty to […]
August 19, 2022 | Rawlins City Council will discuss a rate change to the water enterprise fund at the September 6th council meeting. Rate Specialist Carl Brown, who was hired by the city to review the current funding structure, will present his findings and recommendations. The public is encouraged to attend the meeting in person […]
August 18, 2022 | It’s not over until it’s over. In Saratoga, a variation for a sign that was defeated by planning and zoning board last week nearly passed town council this week before being tabled. The debate centers on an oversized roof-top sign on an outdoor equipment rental shop, Base Camp, owned by the […]
August 18, 2022 | The City of Rawlins is without an economic development director. Nate Davison exited the position after 10 months on the job. No explanation was given for the sudden exit, which was announced Wednesday. All details about personnel are confidential by law. Davison was taking the lead on the “Why Rawlins” promotional […]
August 18, 2022 | Just a reminder: Carbon Power and Light will conduct a three-hour power outage this Sunday in Saratoga. The planned outage will allow crews to upgrade voltage regulators at a substation as part on an ongoing maintenance program. The regulators smooth out spikes and dips in voltages that can damage electrical equipment. […]
August 18, 2022 | The oil and gas industry took another hit in federal court Wednesday. A Fifth Circuit Court panel lifted a nationwide injunction blocking the Biden administration’s pause of new oil and gas leases. In an eight-page opinion, the three-judge panel found that the lower court’s injunction was too vague. The opinion states, […]
August 18, 2022 | Weather buffs: Beginning today, Thursday, August 18th, the KCYS WSR-88D radar operated by the NOAA National Weather Service in Cheyenne will be down for approximately seven days for maintenance. A generator, fuel tanks, and accompanying components will be worked on or updated with new equipment necessary to support the radar’s operation […]
August 17, 2022 | The stakes were high in several primary races here in Carbon County. Voter turnout was high in Tuesday’s Republican Primary here, with a total of 3,993 ballots cast—up over 1,300 voters from the 2020 primary when 2,650 went to the polls. In the 2018 Primary Election, 2,710 ballots were cast. In […]
August 17, 2022 | Incumbent Congresswoman Liz Cheney was booted from her House seat Tuesday, completing a long fall from political grace that began with her impeachment vote against then President Donald Trump. At 3:06 a.m. this morning, with 95 percent of the votes counted, Harriet Hageman was up 38-percentage points over the incumbent. CNN […]
August 17, 2022 | On Election Day in Saratoga, this reporter overheard a man who was filling up his truck at a gas station say to a woman who was buying fuel at the same pumping island, “We need ID for everything else.” The man could have only been talking about one thing, Wyoming’s new […]
August 17, 2022 | Beginning August 18, 2022, the KCYS WSR-88D radar operated by the NOAA National Weather Service in Cheyenne will be down for approximately seven days for maintenance. A generator, fuel tanks, and accompanying components will be worked on or updated with new equipment necessary to support the radar’s operation during periods of […]
August 16, 2022 | Today is Primary Election Day in Wyoming. The polls opened at 7:00 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. Voter ID is required. Absentee ballots must be returned to the County Clerk’s office by 7 p.m. this evening. Polling Places and Precincts/Districts can be found on the Carbon County Clerk website. Pictured […]
August 16, 2022 | A new Rawlins Police Officer was sworn in Monday. Kevin Boriboun took the oath in front of family in City Council Chambers. Chief Michael Ward led Boriboun in the oath. Pictured above: Kevin Boriboun is sworn in. Photo courtesy of Rawlins Police Department/Facebook. Until recently, Boriboun owned and operated an auto […]
August 16, 2022 | The North Platte Valley Medical Center has named a new chief operating officer. According to a news release from the NPVMC, Eva Marie Popelka will assist CEO Jeff Mincy on issues dealing with hospital operations. Mincy is responsible for administration of the NPVMC under contract with Health Management Services, the hospital […]
August 16, 2022 | The National Mining Association is receiving support from a Wyoming senator as it prepares an appeal of Friday’s district court’s ruling that blocks all new coal leases on Federal lands. U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) applauded the decision by the NMA to appeal a federal judge’s decision to reinstate the Biden […]
August 16, 2022 | Paving operations will be begin tomorrow on WYO 71 south of Rawlins. WYDOT advises that motorists should expect delays in the work area. Crews will first focus on the beginning of WYO71/Sage Creek Rd, near the junction at Wyoming Highway 78/ South Higley Blvd., ending at mile marker one. The resulting […]
August 16, 2022 | After a grant through the Wyoming homeland security office to help purchase two specialized drones for use in Carbon County fell through, H.F. Sinclair stepped into to underwrite the entire cost. The local refinery will pay $14,895 for the package that includes two advanced urban fleet drones and the FAA training […]
August 15, 2022 | Mother Nature gave a big assist to county and federal firefighters who were battling a 50-acre fire in Battle Mountain over the weekend. A heavy rain Saturday night took the heat out of the 352 Fire after crews had managed to get 20 percent containment. Carbon County Fire Warden John Rutherford […]
August 15, 2022 | The Obama-appointed judge who has been at the heart of the top energy battles in the West for years reinstated a moratorium on coal leasing repealed by the Trump administration. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon said the move will hurt consumers. On Friday, Judge Brian Morris of the District of Montana restored […]
August 15, 2022 | Liz Cheney needs a cavalry to rescue her flailing re-election campaign at this point. Surrounded and cut off by the voters she claims to represent, Cheney appears headed to a Custer-sized rout in Tuesday’s primary. The help that arrived over the weekend likely won’t save the day. Cheney pick up a […]
August 15, 2022 | At $25,000, the Demolition Derby in Rawlins capping off the county fair offers what Lonnie Pacheco says is “the best purse in the State of Wyoming.” Pictured above: File photo of the Demolition Derby in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99. The derby draws a crowd, and not just to the […]
August 12, 2022 | The 2022 Carbon County Fair and Rodeo is in the books. Fair board assistant Julie Webb is recuperating and already preparing for next year. Webb said that this year’s fair provided a good indication that ‘rona is in everybody’s rear view mirror. Attendance was high and people came looking for a […]
August 12, 2022 | In Rawlins, the water situation has been holding steady. On watering days, usage peaks above 2.5 million gallons of usage a day and then falls back below 2-million gallons consumed on restricted days. Mira Miller with the city manager’s office said the situation is on the “low side of good” since […]
August 12, 2022 | Just last month, Wyoming’s largest news organization appeared hopeful that Liz Cheney could pull out a win in next week’s Republican primary race for the U.S. House. For at least a week the bold headline on the Casper Star Tribune website proclaimed to its worried readership, “Cheney behind in poll, but […]
August 11, 2022 | During last month’s televised gubernatorial debate in Riverton, one of the surprise topics was property taxes. Although each county in the state sets its own rate, Wyoming has one of the lowest median property taxes in the United States. At $1,058 annually, only 11 states collect a lower median property tax. […]
August 11, 2022 | Carbon Power and Light has announced a three-hour power outage for Saratoga on Sunday, August 21st to allow crews to upgrade voltage regulators at a substation. According to a news release from CP&L, the voltage regulators are being upgraded as part of ongoing scheduled maintenance program. The regulators ensure a steady […]
August 11, 2022 | Meeting in a special session Tuesday evening, Rawlins City Council approved a new version of a grant application seeking $7.4 million in federal money to rehabilitate the town’s water service delivery system. Last night was the third time council has considered the application. Questions about the source of the city’s match […]
August 10, 2022 | Tuesday’s scheduled hearing in Carbon County District Court in the matter of Stevens versus the Town of Saratoga was continued. Court officials said the motion to postpone was filed Monday. According to the court docket, yesterday’s unopposed motion to vacate and reset the hearing will be the fourth time in the […]
August 10, 2022 | In Rawlins, City Hall will submit a grant this week seeking nearly $7.5 million to update and improve the water delivery system from the springs south of town to the treatment plant. The governing body passed a resolution at special meeting on July 26th to apply for the grant, but the […]
August 10, 2022 | One person was killed and another injured in a three-vehicle crash on Interstate 80 between Rock Springs and Wamsutter last Tuesday, the Wyoming Highway Patrol says. The crash happened over the noon hour near milepost 123.4, roughly 20 miles east of Rock Springs. According to a crash summary, 51-year-old Arizona resident […]
August 10, 2022 | Wyoming’s two U.S. Senators are calling foul on the FBI’s Monday night raid of President Trump’s resort home in Florida. Approximately two dozen FBI agents arrived around 9 a.m. on Monday morning and remained at Mar-a-Lago in West Palm Beach, for about 10 hours. Some were armed. The FBI did not […]
August 10, 2022 | Saratoga Town Council is moving forward with Never Forget Memorial Park despite a land swap falling through last month on a 3-2 vote. A piece of private property associated with the swap would have made the park slightly bigger. Last week, Mayor Creed James said he is still working with the […]
August 9, 2022 | Wyoming’s Primary Election is one week from today, and it’s down to the wire for candidates as well as absentee voters. In Carbon County, over 1,000 absentee ballots have been sent out to those who requested them. About 40 percent have not been returned yet. County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett said absentee […]
August 9, 2022 | School starts next week for Carbon County District One. For the second year in a row, Rawlins High School is offering a freshman orientation for the incoming class of students. Principal Marnie Garner says tomorrow’s event starts at 9 a.m. All RHS freshmen are welcome to what Principal Garner says is […]
August 9, 2022 | With classes starting next week in Rawlins, and the following week elsewhere in Carbon County, concerns about school-related violence has been an ongoing focus of local law enforcement. A succession of active shooter incidents around the country have raised questions here about the hardness of schools, security measures and the preparedness […]
August 9, 2022 | More wind turbines may be on Wyoming’s horizon, literally. The Inflation Reduction Act passed Sunday by a single vote in the U.S. Senate includes $369 billion to fight climate change and a tail wind of a tax break for the wind energy industry. The push to accelerate so-called “green” energy will […]
August 8, 2022 | In Saratoga, another land deal teed up largely out of public view for the last several months was forced into the sunshine last week. Hit by questions from a resident who is running for mayor, the sitting lame duck Mayor Creed James talked publicly for the first time about a property […]
August 8, 2022 | Wyoming is the only state in the country that has no reported cases of monkeypox, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. On Thursday, the CDC published a map of the USA showing Wyoming and Montana were the only states in the nation without a reported case of monkeypox. […]
August 8, 2022 | After an overnighter Saturday into Sunday, the Democrats passed a $700 billion government spending bill they call the Inflation Reduction Act. Critics say that much government spending is guaranteed to increase inflation. The party line vote to pass the lightweight version of “build back better” legislation was 51-50 with the vice […]
August 5, 2022 | The Rawlins City Council approved a $3 increase to the recycling fee on third and final reading last month. The exact same issue was back before the governing body this week. The increase passed once again, but this time two councilmembers voted “nay” instead of one. The measure came back as […]
August 5, 2022 | Only one letter has been received from a resident expressing interest in being appointed to the Saratoga Town Council seat vacated last month by Ben Spaulding. Mayor Creed James read the letter from Kathy Beck who currently is member of the recreation commission and the Platte Valley Community Center Joint Powers […]
August 5, 2022 | The Wyoming Highway Patrol was involved in two unrelated vehicle pursuits yesterday involving stolen vehicles. One of the chases began outside of Rawlins on Interstate 80. Around 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Highway Patrol Troopers were notified of a stolen vehicle traveling westbound on I-80 west of Rawlins. The driver failed to pull […]
August 5, 2022 | In a sign that Wyoming’s strategy for dealing with the Biden administration on energy issues is changing, Governor Mark Gordon hired a new staff member to a new position Thursday. Jennifer Thomson will serve as Major Project Development Manager, a position intended to keep Wyoming energy projects moving forward in the […]
August 5, 2022 | There’s a new twist with an old face to the U.S. House race in Wyoming. Dick Cheney is campaigning for his daughter. Wearing a white Stetson Open Road hat and surrounded by aspen trees in an outdoor location, Cheney says Donald Trump is a bigger threat to the United States than […]
August 5, 2022 | The Platte Valley Arts Council invites the public to join them on Saturday, September 3rd for the Public Art Project Grand Reveal Event. Starting at 11 a.m. at the Platte Valley Community Center, the artists commissioned to complete the seven new murals and sculptures will be introduced. The artists are Lori […]
August 4, 2022 | The City of Rawlins continues to show its serious about protecting the municipal water supply from another system-wide failure. Part of that effort is moving forward with fines against residents who refuse to comply with the restrictions in place to conserve water this summer. After legal review, City Attorney Gwendolyn Wade […]
August 4, 2022 | Rex Rammell will make good on a threat he made during Thursday night’s gubernatorial debate. Rammell will file a lawsuit against the Wyoming Secretary of State today or tomorrow for allowing Brent Bien’s name to appear on the primary ballot for governor. Rammell and Bien are challenging Governor Mark Gordon in […]
August 4, 2022 | Flags are at half-staff today. Governor Mark Gordon, in accordance with a presidential directive, has ordered both the U.S. and State of Wyoming flag be flown at half-staff statewide until midnight tonight in honor of the passing of Representative Jackie Walorski. Walorski represented Indiana’s Second Congressional District as a Republican in […]
August 4, 2022 | The switch is on. Democrats appear to be crossing over to the Republican Party in Wyoming ahead of the primary election. New data shows that 3,000 people have registered Republican since early voting began on July 1st. Many of them are Democrats. Party registration for Dems is down by nearly the […]
August 3, 2022 | The planned power outage for 30 rural customers south of Rawlins that was postponed last Thursday has been rescheduled for this Monday. In an email to affected customers, including Bigfoot 99, Rocky Mountain Power state that while other planned interruptions have been suspended “due to weather events, this interruption is critical […]
August 3, 2022 | With less than two to go to Wyoming’s primary election, Carbon County Clerk Gwynn Bartlett provided commissioners with an update Tuesday on absentee voting. When Bartlett reported to the board on July 5th on the topic, she said that about 400-500 absentee ballots had been sent out in the mail. That […]
August 3, 2022 | A firefighter who began his career as a volunteer on the Rawlins Fire Department four decades ago is now the Interim State Fire Marshal. Governor Mark Gordon appointed Mark Young to the position on Tuesday. Young replaces Mike Reed, who is retiring after six years in the role. Reed also began […]
August 3, 2022 | The whole state knows the story now. The City of Rawlins uses old wood stave pipes to deliver drinking water from the springs south of town to residents. Governor Mark Gordon spilled the beans at last week’s gubernatorial debate. The governor talked about the pipes in the most negative of ways. […]
August 2, 2022 | The late artist Jerry Palen once described his penchant for taking time out from creating fine art and stately sculptures to draw cartoons, featuring Elmo and Flo, as a “bad habit” he couldn’t break. Presidents sought out Palen’s bronzes and oils of the American West as gifts for foreign dignitaries. A […]
August 2, 2022 | Mystery solved. The Wyoming Department of Transportation confirmed Monday what many passing motorists have suspected. The large parking lot being built at Fort Steele for trucks to wait out winter storms when Interstate 80 is closed had to be torn up and the concrete repoured. WYDOT public information officer Andrea Staley […]
August 2, 2022 | The ribbon cutting and open house event for the Stepping Stones Youth Home in Rawlins will be held tomorrow afternoon. The event runs from 1-3 p.m. with the ribbon cutting scheduled for 2 p.m. John Tengsdahl is the Senior Director of Youth and Outreach for the Volunteers of America, the agency […]
August 1, 2022 | The gubernatorial debate in Riverton Thursday night covered a range of issued and even produced some fireworks. After running for nearly 50 minutes in typical, mild-mannered back-and-forth exchanges, one of Governor Mark Gordon’s two challengers unexpectedly demanded that the other one drop out of the race. The governor stayed clear of […]
August 1, 2022 | An unidentified man with an active warrant for his arrest was shot and killed Saturday night by Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers after the suspect fired at officers. The incident occurred in Crook County along Interstate 90 around milepost 184. Police say the same man opened fire on them Friday night, as […]
August 1, 2022 | Ed Buchanan got his wish. Governor Mark Gordon appointed the Wyoming Secretary of State be a District Court Judge for the Eighth Judicial District. Buchanan decided not to run for a second term as Secretary in hopes of winning the appointment. Before taking the bench, Secretary Buchanan will remain in office […]
August 1, 2022 | CNN wanted to know what Wyoming voters think about Liz Cheney, and the ultra-liberal news channel got more than they bargained for. The reporters turned out to Cheyenne Frontier Days last week and residents didn’t hold back. Only one person spoke in favor of Cheney in the final cut of the […]
July 29, 2022 | In Rawlins, the water levels in the treated water storage tanks rebounded this week after falling below 50 percent last Friday. Despite community-wide water usage remaining around 2.1 million gallons a day, the tanks were 58 percent full on Tuesday. The flows and storage data on the city web site shows […]
July 29, 2022 | The City of Rawlins is finalizing a $7.45 million grant for the replacement of a portion of the wood stave pipeline and spring boxes in the Sage Creek pipeline. The grant from the American Rescue Plan Act will also help underwrite repairs to the 32-mile pipeline from Sage Creek Basin to […]
July 29, 2022 | The Carbon County Fair and Rodeo begins Saturday. The free text messaging service that pushes messages to your phone so you can keep up to date on all the happenings began this morning. The first message went out at 7:41 a.m. this morning. In addition to today’s forecast was a welcome […]
July 29, 2022 | As Bigfoot 99 reported last week, Wyoming Game and Fish stepped up inspection of watercraft in northeast Wyoming were discovered less than 30 miles from the state border in South Dakota. To prevent the harmful zebra mussels found in the Pactola Reservoir near Rapid City from moving any closer to the […]
July 28, 2022 | No more free lunch: School starts in less than a month. And for the first time in two years, breakfast and lunch will not be free to all students. The Department of Agriculture Free Breakfast and Lunch Program that went into effect at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic has ended. […]
July 28, 2022 | Calling, all pit bosses, grill masters and bakers. You’re invited to a “shootout” at the Carbon County Fair. No guns or live ammo is involved, just good old-fashioned home cooking. It’s essentially a new twist on traditional cook-offs. Julie Webb at the fairgrounds in Rawlins said the shootouts are a new […]
July 28, 2022 | A legal ban on abortions in Wyoming lasted only a few hours. Abortion advocates from Teton County won a 14-day stay during an emergency hearing Tuesday. Jackson Hole Judge Melissa Owens ruled in favor of the plaintiffs shortly after the law passed earlier this year went into effect. The court’s temporary […]
July 27, 2022 | Saratoga Town Council last week moved forward on plans to finish Never Forget Memorial Park after voting to kill a land deal that would have allowed for a larger design. Work order 16691-02 calls for a request for proposal on curb and gutter at the park. The scope of the job […]
July 27, 2022 | Governor Mark Gordon yesterday put the blame for the rising number of deaths from fentanyl overdoses across the country and in Wyoming at the front door of the White House. The governor also issued a warning to residents about the growing presence of the deadly, synthetic opioid in the state and […]
July 27, 2022 | The Carbon County Commissioners last week passed a single resolution setting speed limits on five county roads. Resolution 2022-32 set speed limits on county roads 203, 451, 291, 401, and 351. The new speed limits were based on a study conducted by Wyoming T2, a technology center in at the University […]
July 26, 2022 | In Saratoga: No deal, no donation. Dr. Michael Janssen, the owner of the Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, confirmed Monday that a $30,000 gift for Never Forget Memorial Park was linked to a land swap. After an outpouring of negative public comments about the deal, Saratoga Town Council last week rejected the […]
July 26, 2022 | In Rawlins, the levels of treated water in the municipal storage tanks dropped below 50 percent on Friday, prompting city officials to begin taking a harder line against residents who violate watering restrictions. Community Relations Coordinator Mira Miller said the hot dry weather has pushed the tenuous water situation in Rawlins […]
July 26, 2022 | Starting Wednesday, abortions will be illegal in Wyoming. Governor Mark Gordon on Friday certified the state attorney general’s finding that a law passed by the legislature earlier this year is triggered by the U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v Wade. Much like his statement when he signed Enrolled Act No. […]
July 25, 2022 | The Carbon County Commissioners approved $33 million in spending in the budget passed Tuesday. The budget passed with no discussion among commissioners or comments from the public. The $33 million in spending to run government operations are about $900,000 less than last year’s budget of $3.9 million. With cash on hand […]
July 25, 2022 | The Saratoga Town Council, to soften the blow from a pending 10 percent increase to the water and sewer rate for residents, will cut the fee for weed and pest by 40 percent. On June 8th, the Joint Powers Water and Sewer Board voted to increase the water and sewer rate […]
July 25, 2022 | Charlotte Newell has been hard at work in Rawlins for years making the community a better place to live. Her LinkedIn page lists Carbon County School District #1 as her most recent employer. Before that, Newell was branch manager for the Bank of the West. And for many years, Newell volunteered […]
July 25, 2022 | Railroad enthusiasts, train buffs, historians and lovers of the American West should take note. Union Pacific’s famed “Big Boy” No. 4014 will be in Cheyenne on Saturday. The event is part of a special passenger trip from the Mile High City to Cheyenne Frontier Days hosted by the Union Pacific Museum. […]
July 25, 2022 | Saratoga’s Tuker Carricato hung on and rode his way to High School Champion in bareback riding at the National High School Finals Rodeo. Pictured above: Tuker Carricato in the bareback riding event. Photo by Trisha Carricato. Carricato was in Gillette competing against other young riders from all 50 states, Canada, Mexico […]
July 22, 2022 | In Rawlins, no drama or surprise in Tuesday night’s 6-1 vote to increase the monthly recycling fee from $3.00 to $6.00 on third and final reading. Councilman Chris Weisenberg was the lone dissenting vote at the first two readings, as well. Like the water, landfill, and sewer rates, residents pay […]
July 22, 2022 | The threat of zebra and quagga mussels to Wyoming’s waters is closer than ever before. Last week zebra mussels were discovered in Pactola Reservoir, 13 miles west of Rapid City, South Dakota, in the Black Hills. The reservoir is only 27 miles from the Wyoming border and is a popular boating […]
July 22, 2022 | In a tribute to the hard-working men and women that helped establish the American West, the U.S. Senate has declared July 23, 2022, the National Day of the American Cowboy. The bipartisan resolution, which the Senate passed unanimously, was introduced by U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-WY, along […]
July 22, 2022 | Last month’s momentous Supreme Court decision overturning 50 years of Roe v Wade as the law of the land returned the decision to states. In Wyoming, the matter now sits with Governor Mark Gordon. Attorney General Bridget Hill had 30 days from the June 24th Dobbs decision to determine whether a […]
July 21, 2022 | Following a 40-minute public hearing, Saratoga Town Council Tuesday night voted 3-2 against a proposed land swap with a private property owner. Most of the comments opposed trading a strip of private land on Pic Pike Road with a town parcel on the Overlook at Myrtle and Veterans. One by one, […]
July 21, 2022 | In another big development at Tuesday night’s Saratoga Town Council meeting, and completely unrelated to the rejection of the land swap, first-term Councilmember Ben Spaulding submitted his resignation. The pain and sadness were obvious as Spaulding, who works at HF Sinclair Refinery, made a public statement regarding his decision. Spaulding has […]
July 21, 2022 | The Petroleum Association of Wyoming (PAW) is seeking to intervene in a lawsuit filed file by two radical, anti-carbon environmental groups that seek to end drilling on federal lands in the Cowboy State. The lawsuit, Center for Biological Diversity and WildEarth Guardians v United States Department of Interior, et. al. pending […]
July 20, 2022 | Breaking news from Saratoga Town Council: The half-year or more of negotiations between the town and a private property owner over a proposed land swap came to an end last night with no deal. Following a public hearing, the governing body voted 3-2 to reject the land swap with Dr. Michael […]
July 20, 2022 | The Rawlins City Council passed the $3.00 fee hike for the recycling center on third and final reading Tuesday night. Details later this week.
July 20, 2022 | Carbon County Fair Week kicks off a week from this Saturday. Julie Webb, the Administrative Assistant for the Fair Board, said things are coming together under this year’s theme, “Stirrup Some Fun.” Events start at 7 a.m. on the final Saturday of July with the Lions Club Breakfast at the Jeffery […]
June 29, 2022 | In Rawlins, the community is mourning the loss of one of its own. A 24-year-old was killed over the weekend following a single-vehicle rollover crash near Encampment. Cali O’Hare reports on what we know about the early morning crash and how you can help the Garlington family. Pictured above: Colton Garlington […]
June 29, 2022 | The Encampment Town Council will meet in special session Thursday evening to choose a winning contractor bid for the town’s lagoon improvement project. Town Clerk Doreen Harvey sent out the special meeting agenda on Tuesday. According to the application for a SLIB grant to help fund the work, the proposed project […]
June 29, 2022 | In Saratoga, with the temperature hitting 90 degrees yesterday, a dunk in the pool would be welcome relief. The price may be too steep for some, though. Councilwoman D’Ron Campbell said she has heard from families who asked if the price could be lowered. Campbell brought up the question at last […]
June 29, 2022 | Cheyenne Regional Medical Center will open its front entrances on July 5th for the first time in more than two years. The hospital’s main entrances have been closed because of COVID-19 safety restrictions. People will still have to wear masks in the hospital’s facilities. Photo courtesy Cheyenne Regional Medical Center.
June 29, 2022 | According to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, an unidentified man was mauled by a grizzly bear Monday afternoon while hiking Francs Peak west of Meeteetse. The man, reported to be an experienced out-of-state back-country recreationist, was flown by helicopter to a hospital in Billings, Montana where he is receiving treatment. […]
June 28, 2022 | The grass isn’t any greener on the other side of the fence in Rawlins. It’s brown all over because of ongoing water restrictions. The city is partnering with the University of Wyoming Carbon County Extension office and the City of Rawlins on a study to explore alternative turf options that can […]
June 28, 2022 | A 28-year-old Laramie woman is facing a felony drug and child endangering charges after the Carbon County Sheriff’s office was called to investigate an incident at a campground in the Miracle Mile on May 21. According to a release Monday from Sheriff Roybal’s office, Sergeant John Moore and Deputy Caleb Schulz, […]
June 28, 2022 | In Saratoga, the cost of the Main Street water line and road paving project through the center of town will exceed the original estimate by roughly three-quarters of a million dollars. Councilman Jon Nelson updated the council last week following a workshop with the Joint Powers Water and Sewer Board. Nelson […]
June 28, 2022 | All Wyoming Game and Fish Department licensing systems will be offline and unavailable for one day beginning 7 a.m. July 9th. The department must take systems offline for annual testing. While offline no one will be able to purchase hunting or fishing licenses, permits or stamps on the Wyoming Game and […]
June 27, 2022 | Friday’s momentous Supreme Court decision overturning 50 years of Roe v. Wade as the law of the land drew a wild range of reactions over the weekend. One of the most insightful, disguised as satire, was the Babylon Bee’s observation that “Dems pause January 6 hearings to call for insurrection.” Calls […]
June 24, 2022 | In an update to a story Bigfoot 99 has been following, Rawlins city officials appear poised to approve a several-dollar increase to the base recycling rate paid by all residents, whether they utilize the facility or not. Cali O’Hare has the latest from City Hall. Pictured above: Brian Smith sorting at […]
June 24, 2022 | In Saratoga, simmering beneath the surface for at least a year has been discontent over the unequal treatment of home builders by the town. The issue reached a boiling this week when Bryan Drake of Triple D Construction confronted the mayor and council about how another contractor has been allowed to […]
June 24, 2022 | Governor Mark Gordon last week appealed a stealthy land purchase made by the Bureau of Land Management with $21 million of taxpayer money. Now, the Wyoming Congressional delegation is following suit. On Thursday, U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis and Rep. Liz Cheney, sent a letter to Department of the […]
June 24, 2022 | The Rainbow Family is downplaying estimates that 10,000 or more people could trample pristine wilderness in the Routt National Forest over the next month. The Craig Daily Press reports that representatives from the counter-culture group estimates that only 5,000 of their live-off-the land followers may show up for the 50th Anniversary […]
June 24, 2022 | The City of Rawlins will spend more than $82,000 to replace the police department’s two K-9 cruisers, one of which was involved in a collision earlier this month. Cali O’Hare has more. Pictured above: File photo of Sgt. Joel Robertson and K9 Bella, who were involved in a collision with a […]
June 23, 2022 | Since taking over the county-owned youth crisis center in Rawlins, the organization that now runs it has learned two important facts about the area. One, good help is hard to find and keep. Two, the shelter serves a critical need in Carbon County. So, Volunteers of America Northern Rockies is struggling […]
June 23, 2022 | One of the Platte Valley’s most beloved characters passed away unexpectedly earlier this month. Freddie Williams, a familiar sight walking the streets of Saratoga on his daily rounds to familiar spots, passed away at his home on June 9th. Fred Kent Williams was born March 29, 1956, in Laramie to Martha […]
June 23, 2022 | President Joe Biden found someone else to blame for the record-high gas prices this summer: Gas stations. Blaming gas stations is the latest target for his wrath as polls show his favorability rating plummeting and more. Americans putting the blame on his energy policies. The Biden administration first blamed Russia, calling […]
June 23, 2022 | As Memorial Hospital of Carbon County balances financial realities with its healthcare mission, officials exploring potential partnerships with other facilities for services that it cannot afford to bring in-house. Cali O’Hare has the story. Pictured above: File photo of MHCC. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99. Related: MHCC financial position […]
June 23, 2022 | The electronic message sign on Interstate 80 near Rawlins announced the good news to westbound travelers yesterday: Yellowstone National Park was open to visitors, at least partially. The South Loop reopened Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. Visitors traveling to the Park should stay informed about the new interim entry system, including […]
June 23, 2022 | The Carbon County Commissioners appointed a local attorney and a municipal judge to preside over the Circuit Court as needed. Cali O’Hare has the details. Pictured above: File photo of Carbon County Courthouse. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
June 22, 2022 | Rainbow Gatherings, like the one coming together on the Routt National Forest north of Hayden, Colorado, are “unlawful” events that can be managed to some degree, but not prevented or shut down. This was the message from U.S. Forest Service Officials during a virtual online meeting last night. Pictured above: A […]
June 22, 2022 | The latest show coming to the newly renovated historic Sinclair theatre was filmed in Rawlins at the Wyoming Frontier Prison in 1987. The one-hour and 42-minute horror flick directed by Renny Harlin includes numerous area residents, like longtime drama teacher Larry Moore. Cali O’Hare has the story. Pictured above: File photo […]
June 22, 2022 | As gas prices have topped $5.00/gallon in at least five counties over the last week, Governor Gordon’s Gas and Diesel Price Working Group has announced two public meetings in July. The group is working to lower prices at the pump in Wyoming. The public meetings will take place on July 15th […]
Award-winning Bigfoot 99 is looking for a news reporter. Your beat would include the City of Rawlins and the surrounding Wyoming area. If you’re a fact finder and a writer with the instincts for local news gathering and broadcast presentation, we’re your new home. Flexible hours, competitive pay, insurance benefits and the ability […]
June 20, 2022 | Governor Mark Gordon filed an appeal with the Department of Interior on Friday over the Bureau Land Management’s secretive deal to buy the sprawling Marton Ranch in Natrona and Carbon Counties. In the appeal, the governor questioned why the Bureau flew the agency’s largest-ever purchase of Wyoming land under the radar […]
June 20, 2022 | In Rawlins, residents should expect a substantial increase in their monthly utility bill to offset an anticipated $88,000 deficit for the municipal recycling center. The governing body will make the final decision, with the first of three readings of the ordinance scheduled for its June 21st meeting. If approved, it will […]
June 20, 2022 | The U.S. Forest Service will host a virtual public meeting to provide information and address concerns about the upcoming Rainbow Family Gathering outside Craig, Colorado. The online meeting with Forest Service officials will take place Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. For its 50th anniversary gathering, the Rainbow Family of Living Light […]
June 17, 2022 | The U.S. Forest Service is treating next month’s golden anniversary gathering of the Rainbow Family on public land outside Craig, Colorado, as an “incident.” The USFS is organizing a response the same way it does during a forest fire. One of the incident team members is Hillary Markin, a Forest Service […]
June 17, 2022 | A man and woman from New Mexico are being held in Carbon County jail on felony drug charges after a chase on Interstate 80 that ended on a ranch near the town of Elk Mountain Tuesday. Michael P. Romero and Diana B. Ray, both 36 years old, booked into the detention […]
June 17, 2022 | If you’re headed to the mountains this weekend, Hog Park Reservoir should be full. Hog Park, one of six reservoirs for the City of Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities, was expected to fill earlier this week. The BOPU said visitors and residents should expect higher than normal flows in the Encampment […]
June 17, 2022 | The Carbon County Library Foundation is hosting its annual shred-a-thon fundraiser this weekend in Rawlins. Everyone is invited to destroy their documents using the commercial-grade shredder. Proceeds benefit all eight of the libraries around the county. Cali O’Hare spoke with library foundation board members and filed this report. Pictured above: Rawlins […]
June 16, 2022 | Governor Mark Gordon announced yesterday that he will issue an emergency declaration in response to historic flooding in Yellowstone National Park and surrounding areas. Colossal flows as the Yellowstone River raged out of its banks wiped out the north entrance road from Gardiner to Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park’s administrative […]
June 16, 2022 | The photograph on the GoFundMe page for the young family of the Wyoming Marine killed last week during a training flight in California is telling. It shows Corporal Seth Rasmuson of Buffalo standing with the high school sweetheart he married. In Avery Rasmuson’s arms is their seven-month old baby. The family […]
June 16, 2022 | In Rawlins, the new acting field manager for the Bureau of Land Management gave an update to the Carbon County Commissioners about the local projects that the federal agency is involved in. Cali O’Hare reports. Pictured above: File photo of the Bureau of Land Management Rawlins Field Office sign. Photo courtesy […]
June 10, 2022 | In Rawlins, city employees and citizens collected a few hundred pounds of trash, painted the Continental Divide Trail logo throughout town, and made other improvements as part of the annual community cleanup day. Cali O’Hare has more. Pictured above: Volunteers paint a CDT marker in Rawlins. Photo courtesy of CDT Coalition […]
June 10, 2022 | Warmer weather and the return of summer means mosquitoes are beginning to make their annual appearance. In Saratoga, ground level fogging operations will begin tonight. Public Works Director Jon Winter said the operation involves two pickup trucks, each with a ULV fogging unit mounted inside the bed. Winter said the two […]
June 10, 2022 | Dr. Duane Abels will continue to represent Carbon County as the public health officer following a unanimous vote at the June 7th commissioners’ meeting. Cali O’Hare reports. Pictured above: Dr. Duane Abels. Photo courtesy MHCC. Related: Commissioners appoint Abels as new public health officer Related: Public health, MHCC officials discuss […]
June 10, 2022 | In Rawlins, the city manager and department heads have launched a new monthly report detailing the previous month’s projects, accomplishments, and challenges, as well as plans and projects for the upcoming month. The 20-some page document will take the place of the monthly Behind the Scenes videos that the city manager […]
June 9, 2022 | With the average price of gasoline averaging around $5 per gallon this week and the White House not taking action to stem the surge, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon is stepping in to provide relief for consumers in the Cowboy State. Governor Gordon Wednesday announced the formation of a Gas and Diesel […]
June 9, 2022 | In Rawlins, where mandatory water restrictions went into effect early in the spring and likely will remain in place through the summer, the future of the downtown splash pad remains in doubt. No one can say when the ribbon will be cut and the grand opening celebrated. Although the interactive water […]
June 9, 2022 | In an update to a story Bigfoot 99 has been following, the Board of Carbon County Commissioners authorized the chairman’s signature on a formal resolution denying the conditional use permit as requested by the Simpson Ridge Green Hydrogen Project. Cali O’Hare has the latest. Pictured above: Nicholas Bair (center), the CEO […]
June 9, 2022 | The Never Forget Memorial Park in Saratoga may not be completed by Labor Day, but the sculpture commemorating the life and sacrifice of the local soldier who inspired the creation of the green space will be. The Platte Valley Arts Council commissioned local artist Sierra Smith to create an original piece […]
June 8, 2022 | Perhaps the biggest casualty of the massive fish kill planned for Saratoga Lake this fall will be the annual Ice Fishing Derby. With no fish in the lake, the 2023 derby will be “put on ice” for a year. As reported previously, Wyoming Game and Fish plans to treat the lake […]
June 8, 2022 | After less than two years as Carbon County’s mental health examiner, Denise Rice has resigned from the position. The Board of Commissioners plans to advertise for the position, which state law requires. Mental health examiners provide clinical analysis and recommendations in some cases that come before law enforcement and the courts. […]
June 8, 2022 | In Rawlins, the thrift store on Cedar Street is celebrating its 20th anniversary next week with all kinds of festivities. The nonprofit organization is more than just a thrift store. Cali O’Hare has the story. Pictured above: File photo of the Rawlins Thrift Store. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99. Rawlins […]
June 7, 2022 | Tonight’s regularly scheduled Rawlins City Council meeting has been postponed because not enough council members plan to be there. Cali O’Hare has the details. Pictured above: File photo of Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
June 7, 2022 | Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon last month formed a new committee to help find ways to respond to the ongoing challenges of providing a quality education in a rapidly changing world. The K-12 advisory committee will hold public meetings this summer to gain input about what Wyoming families and businesses want from […]
June 7, 2022 | < A Rawlins Police sergeant and his K9 partner are uninjured following a pursuit that ended with the suspect backing his vehicle into the cruiser. Cali O’Hare reports. Pictured above: File photo of Sgt. Joel Robertson and K9 Bella, who were involved in a collision with a suspected drunk driver on […]
June 7, 2022 | The price of gasoline hit another record high Tuesday. Nationwide, the average price of regular unleaded his $4.919, up six cents a gallon from Monday. The average price in Wyoming today is $4.60 a gallon. On Monday, it was $4.54. Despite the unprecedented surge, Wyoming residents have been spared the even […]
June 6, 2022 | What helped the deranged teenaged shooter in Uvalde, Texas, more than the $9,000 worth of guns he brought to a school shooting, was the disorganization and cowardly inaction of the police who stood outside as shots rang out from a fourth-grade classroom, where 19 kids and their two teachers died. In […]
June 6, 2022 | Wyoming Congresswoman Liz Cheney’s re-election ads in Wyoming refrain from attacking Donald Trump or his supporters. After all, Trump won the state in 2020 with biggest percentage of votes in the country. Behind the scenes, Wyoming’s Congresswoman is playing by a different set of rules. She’s going after Trump allies through […]
June 6, 2022 | At a workshop Friday afternoon, the Saratoga Town Council finalized the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The balanced budget includes $3,740,000 for the general fund. The budget will be on the agenda at Tuesday night’s council meeting. Pictured above: File photo of Saratoga Town Hall/Police Department. Photo by Cali […]
June 3, 2022 | The annual Free Dump Days event has been restructured in Rawlins, so it is spread over two months rather than one week. The change was made so the city could save money, take some pressure off the small landfill crew tasked with managing the event, and ensure neighboring communities don’t take […]
June 3, 2022 | Tomorrow is Free Fishing Day in Wyoming. Each year on the first Saturday of June, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department allows anyone to fish in Wyoming without a license. In Saratoga, the local Lions Club will again sponsor a Family Fishing Day as a way for kids to be introduced […]
June 3, 2022 | The Rawlins Chamber of Commerce is operating again without an executive director at the helm. Details are limited. Cali O’Hare reports on what we know so far. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99. Related: Rawlins Chamber moving to Rainbow Teton Building Related: Rawlins Chamber board announces new executive director
June 3, 2022 | Joe Biden was silent on school security in a prime-time speech last night where he called for gun control legislation sure to run into stiff opposition in the Senate. Wyoming Senator John Barrasso is poised to fight any of the rollbacks on Second Amendments Biden proposed last night and earlier this […]
June 3, 2022 | The Saratoga Town Council will hold budget workshop on Friday. In an email announcing the workshops, Town Clerk Marie Christian said the governing body said will finalize the budget to bring it into balance. Four departments will be considered: Recreation, Public Works, Police and Town Hall. The workshops begin at 2 […]
June 3, 2022 | If you’re headed to the forests of northern Colorado and southeast Wyoming this weekend, you’re reminded to be aware that burn scars from recent fires can still create hazards. In the past five years, local wildfires on both sides of the state line border have burned over 391,000 acres — 611 […]
June 2, 2022 | Donald Trump’s Save America rally in Casper appears to have lit a fire under Liz Cheney’s primary campaign bid. After a slow and hushed start to what could be a barnburner of a primary, Cheney is launching a media campaign around Wyoming today in support of her re-election to the U.S. […]
June 2, 2022 | Students from the Carbon County Higher Education Center partnered with HF Sinclair and the Bureau of Land Management to replace the wood rail fencing around the Highwater Reservoir near Baggs with welded steel. Cali O’Hare reports. Pictured above: Photo courtesy of CCHEC.
June 2, 2022 | The Saratoga Town Council will hold budget workshops on Friday. In an email announcing the workshops, Town Clerk Marie Christian said the governing body would be finalizing the budget to bring it into balance. Four departments will be considered: Recreation, Public Works, Police and Town Hall. The workshops begin at 2 […]
June 2, 2022 | Beginning this week, the weight room at the Rawlins Family Recreation Center is closed for remodeling. A new floor and equipment are being installed. Cali O’Hare has the latest on the project. Pictured above: Empty weight room at the Rawlins rec center after the 15-year-old equipment was removed. Photo courtesy of […]
June 1, 2022 | A photo-ID is required to vote at the polls in Wyoming. It’s like having a strong password for your online banking account. A weaker standard is in place for requesting a mail-in ballot. Safeguards exist, though. Unlike other states where mail-in ballots are sent out randomly, Wyoming voters must request a […]
June 1, 2022 | Bigfoot 99 received a photograph from a listener over the weekend depicting a calf elk hidden by its mother deep in sage brush outside Saratoga. Living in Wyoming, it’s not uncommon to chance upon similar scenes of newborn wildlife while hiking or exploring. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department urges people […]
June 1, 2022 | A 25-year-old woman was gored and tossed into the air by a bison at Yellowstone National Park earlier this week. An inaccurate report stating the unidentified woman had died was published by NBC News early Wednesday, citing park officials. NBC News later posted a correction. According to a park release issued […]
June 1, 2022 | Although students in Carbon County School District One will have to pay for meals beginning again in the upcoming academic year, the district’s free summer food service program is ramping up next week. The summer meals offered several times a week through a food truck at various parks in Rawlins and […]
June 1, 2022 | Governor Gordon joined a coalition of 16 governors calling on the Biden administration to drop a proposed rule that would penalize companies engaged in traditional energy development. The letter to President Biden and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Gary Gensler opposes a proposed rule that would require publicly traded companies […]
June 1, 2022 | The City of Rawlins has released the lineup of musicians and bands playing at the 2022 Music in the Park. Cali O’Hare spoke with longtime organizer Patti Hays and previews what to expect at this summer’s outdoor concert series. Pictured above: File photo of Washington Park in Rawlins. Photo by Cali […]
May 13, 2022 | In Rawlins, the Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday voted unanimously to recommend the city council approve a special use permit for 307 Horse Racing’s newest Derby Club on Cedar Street. If all goes according to plan, the business could be open for off-track betting as soon as next Friday. Cali […]
May 13, 2022 | At the direction of the President of the United States, Governor Mark Gordon yesterday ordered both the U.S. and State of Wyoming flags be flown at half-staff statewide until sunset on Monday, as a mark of respect and remembrance of the one million American lives lost to COVID-19. When Biden was […]
May 13, 2022 | Two Missouri men found guilty of poaching a mule deer last October off Rattlesnake Pass Road lost their hunting privileges and were ordered to pay several thousand dollars worth of fines and penalties. Elk Mountain Game Warden Jake Miller apprehended the men a after they shot a trophy deer around 10 […]
May 13, 2022 | High school graduation is right around the corner. In Rawlins, the governing body has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the Carbon County School District One to hang banners celebrating the Rawlins High School graduating class of 2022 on the decorative light poles downtown. Cali O’Hare has the details. Pictured […]
May 12, 2022 | Forget about spring. Election season is here. The candidate filing period opens today. Here in Carbon County, the impacts of this year’s redistricting plan add a few wrinkles to election year politics. Cali O’Hare reports on the changes. Pictured above: File photo of Carbon County Courthouse. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99. […]
May 12, 2022 | Reginald Jack Thornburg Jr. December 5, 1962 – February 16, 2022 The task of capturing a summary of someone’s life in a few paragraphs is an impossible one. Especially when that someone is as unique and extraordinary as Reggie was. One could write volumes. The following is merely a snapshot of […]
May 12, 2022 | Today’s the day! Candidates for the 2022 Primary Election are able to formally file to run for office. Cali O’Hare has the key details. Pictured above: File photo of a polling location on Election Day at the Grand Encampment Opera House. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
May 12, 2022 | In the U.S. Senate Wednesday, a Democrat-led attempt to expand abortion and override state laws at the federal level was defeated. The largely symbolic vote came up short of the simple majority needed, failing 49-51. Wyoming’s two senators, John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, voted against the bill as did all the […]
May 12, 2022 | Rawlins is not alone in expressing alarm over water levels this summer. The worst drought in over 1,000 years is causing concern across the West. Electric power to seven states is endangered because of low water levels in Lake Powell on the Colorado River. Potable drinking water in Northern Arizona is […]
May 11, 2022 | At a hearing in Circuit Court Tuesday morning, the Carbon County Attorney’s Office dismissed counts I, III, and IV against former Saratoga Police Sergeant Justin Brown in exchange for his guilty plea to count II, interference with a peace officer. Cali O’Hare reports. Pictured above: A photo of the dog known as […]
March 30, 2022 |
In Rawlins, Public Works Director Cody Dill says bringing the water pretreatment plant back online is a priority to ensure citizens have access to clean water while repairs to the infrastructure are underway. The pretreatment plant is decades old but has hardly ever been used. Cali O’Hare reports.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/033022_Rawlins-to-Bring-Water-Pretreatment-Plant-Online.mp3 Pictured above: Rawlins water pretreatment plant. Photo courtesy of Bud Dimick.
Related: Rain welcome as water storage tanks in Rawlins rise
Related: Rawlins water treatment plant Filter #4 receives new screens
Related: Rawlins officials hold special meeting to approve submission of emergency $7.79M SLIB grant for water system
Related: EPA lifts Rawlins boil water advisory, residents must still conserve
Related: Rawlins water system suffers catastrophic failure
Related: Rawlins using well water while work continues on Sage Creek pipeline
Related: Rawlins accepts American Recovery Act Funding for Sage Creek water line
Related: Rawlins water treatment woes taking toll on equipment, budget
Related: Rawlins officials tour problem areas along water pipeline
March 30, 2022 |
Yesterday’s rain was a welcome sight for city officials as the levels in Rawlins’ water tanks and reservoirs continue to rise. Cali O’Hare has an update.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/033022_Rain-Welcome-as-Water-Storage-Tanks-in-Rawlins-Rise.mp3 Pictured above: Water storage tank in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Related: Rawlins to bring water pretreatment plant online
Related: Rawlins water treatment plant Filter #4 receives new screens
Related: Rawlins officials hold special meeting to approve submission of emergency $7.79M SLIB grant for water system
Related: EPA lifts Rawlins boil water advisory, residents must still conserve
Related: Rawlins water system suffers catastrophic failure
Related: Rawlins using well water while work continues on Sage Creek pipeline
Related: Rawlins accepts American Recovery Act Funding for Sage Creek water line
Related: Rawlins water treatment woes taking toll on equipment, budget
Related: Rawlins officials tour problem areas along water pipeline
March 30, 2022 |
The jobless numbers in Wyoming continue to improve, but they are still not back to pre-Covid levels.
The Research & Planning section of the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services reports that the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell slightly from 3.8% in January to 3.7% in February. In raw numbers, that means from January to February, 630 Wyoming residents returned to work. February’s jobless rate in Carbon County was 3.8 percent, down from 4.1 in January. The number stood at 5.4 in 2021.
Unemployment rates decreased from year-ago levels in every county. The largest decreases occurred in Natrona (down from 8.3% to 5.0%). Wyoming’s unemployment rate has been trending downward since its peak of 8.6% in May 2020. Despite the improvements, unemployment remained higher last month than in pre-Covid 2019, when Wyoming’s jobless rate was 3.5 percent.
Pictured above: The Wyoming Workforce Services office in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
March 30, 2022 |
The USS Wyoming, named for the Cowboy State, made history this month. The 15 enlisted women serving aboard ballistic-missile class submarine became the first all-female crew to complete a 77-day “boomer” deterrent patrol.
Also known as SSBN 742, the Wyoming is nuclear-powered submarine is capable of launching ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads at enemy targets. The “SS” denotes submarine. The “B” denotes ballistic missile. The “N” stands for nuclear. The USS Wyoming’s silent signature allows it to make deep water runs undetected, making it a survivable deterrent in the event of first strike nuclear attack against the mainland.
On average, ballistic-missile submarines spend 77 days at sea, followed by 35 days in port for maintenance.
The completion of the deterrent patrol authorizes sailors to wear a “boomer” pin on their uniforms. This pin signifies the number of patrols they have completed in the careers.
The USS Wyoming home ports at the Naval Submarine Base at Kings Bay, Georgia.
After completing the recent three-month long boomer patrol, Chief Logistics Specialist Samantha Mincey spoke to Fox News there about the significance of an all female crew carrying out the historic mission.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0330_USS-Wyoming-1.mp3 Mincey, a native of Los Angeles, began her naval career aboard an aircraft carrier.
Women were first authorized to serve aboard submarines 12 years ago. While women comprise nearly one-fourth of the Department of Defense’s total force, only a small fraction of women serve on submarines. Enlisted women currently serve aboard four guided-missile submarines and one ballistic-missile submarine. In all, the U.S. Navy’s fleet includes 70 active submarines, including the Wyoming.
Learn more about the USS Wyoming: https://www.sublant.usff.navy.mil/SSBN742/
Pictured above: The enlisted women assigned to the Blue Crew of the Ohio-class ballistic-missile submarine USS Wyoming (SSBN 742) stand in formation at the USS Bancroft static display outside the gate at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ashley Berumen/Released.
March 29, 2022 |
Inflation is impacting the price of everything, from gas to groceries. Even items you thought might be inflation proof are proving not to be so. The residents of Saratoga were told at the last council meeting that the cost of the critical chemicals needed to treat municipal wastewater at the lagoons north of town has doubled.
Councilman Ron Hutchins, who joined the meeting by phone, delivered the budget-busting news.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0329_Saratoga-Water-Dept-1.mp3 Pictured above: File photo of Saratoga Town Hall. Photo by Emma Diercks/Bigfoot 99.
One of the items on the shopping list for the public works department is an oxidizer for the wastewater treatment plant. Oxidizers are used to remove a variety of common chemicals found in wastewater, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, pesticides and toxic compounds, along with odors and colors.
Oxidizers are not cheap. Hutchins told council that one barrel costs $800, and the town needs to purchase four. Hutchins, who is the council liaison to the public works department, said he gave Public Works Director Jon Winter permission to buy one barrel saying he would seek approval for the other three.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0329_Saratoga-Water-Dept-2.mp3 Saratoga Town Council, with Ben Spaulding absent, passed the motion unanimously. The price increases mean the public works department will blow through its budget to keep the plant running.
March 29, 2022 |
The Town of Saratoga issued a public notice that the municipal drinking water violated a drinking water requirement.
The deficiency dates back to June 10, 2015, after the Environmental Protection Agency conducted a routine sanitary survey of the town’s blue water storage tanks. The air vent and hatch on both the bolted and the welded tanks were cited as deficient. The EPA gave the town a deadline to correct the deficiency. According to the town’s own admission in a recent public notice, no action was taken.
The town reports, however, no harm was done by not fixing the issue by the deadline. In a release, town officials state residents do not need to take any action, such as boiling water. The EPA never issued any corrective orders.
Councilman Ron Hutchins explained what he called the “Catch-22” position the town found itself after the EPA’s inspection seven years ago. The deficiency revolves around the town’s failure to use an EPA-required “Number 24” mesh screen, which neither tank could accommodate.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0329_Saratoga-Water-Dept-1.mp3 In a public notice released earlier this month, the town noted that the situation does not represent an emergency. Neither the public notice nor Councilman Hutchins provided any details – the significant deficiency, or SD, has been corrected. Hutchins put it this way when speaking to the council.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0329_Saratoga-Water-Dept-2.mp3 Courtesy photos of the blue water tanks in Saratoga.
The public notices states that with the issue corrected, the SD has been closed in the EPA’s database.
Only the welded water storage tank is in service. The bolted tank, easily distinguished by the long tell-tale stains from its leaky joints, has been removed from service and is scheduled to be removed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0329_Water-Notice-3.mp3 Hutchins added that with the deficiencies addressed, the town’s water system poses no threats to the public. A recent, routine test of the municipal water supply, the councilman said, came back “fine.”
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0329_Water-Notice-4.mp3 Call the Public Works Department for more information, 326-8335.
March 29, 2022 |
Rawlins officials continue exploring solutions for the dilapidated properties throughout the community. Last week, they joined representatives from other municipalities and agencies at a special forum organized by the county’s Economic Development Director. Cali O’Hare was there and filed this report.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/032922_City-Officials-Hear-Options-for-Brownfield-Sites-at-Urban-Renewal-Presentation.mp3 WDEQ Brownfields and Orphan Sites Program Manager Cindi Martinez presenting to the group at the Carbon County Economic Development Corporation’s Urban Renewal Forum held on March 22nd. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Related: Rawlins looking to State for help on condemned buildings
Related: Rawlins applying to EPA for two Brownfield grants
Related: Rawlins officials aim to take action on dangerous buildings
Related: Urban renewal program could open doors for extra funding
Related: Rawlins exploring urban renewal for areas outside of downtown
Related: Rawlins hires grant writer
Related: Rawlins hires economic development director
March 29, 2022 |
The annual Hands of Friendship Dinner hosted by local service organizations in Rawlins is set for this weekend. All money raised during the event is split between nonprofit groups chosen by those in attendance. Cali O’Hare has a preview of the event.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/032922_Hands-of-Friendship-Dinner-to-Benefit-Local-Nonprofits.mp3 Pictured above: File photo of the Masonic Temple where the Hands of Friendship dinner will take place. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Related: Public invited to Hands of Friendship Dinner and Auction next week
Related: County organizations benefit from service group fundraiser
March 29, 2022 |
Two Rawlins girls earned “All American” titles and finished fifth in their divisions at the USA Wrestling Folkstyle Nationals held in Colorado. Cali O’Hare reports.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/032922_Rawlins-Girls-Finish-Fifth-at-USA-Wrestling-Nationals.mp3 Pictured above: Brinley Green. Photo by Chris Mora.
For more information about USA Wrestling, click here: https://usawrestlingevents.com
March 28, 2022 |
Governor Mark Gordon allowed the redistricting bill to become law on Friday without his signature. In a letter to Wyoming Secretary of State Ed Buchannan, the governor wrote, “Redistricting is an inherently legislative process and, therefore, I must assume this final product represents the ‘best effort’ of this Legislature. The governor added that he was allowing House Enrolled Act 62—the final amended version of the bill to come out of conference—to become law without his signature.
The jig-saw puzzle of creating new voting maps in light of the 2020 census was a divisive process that began in August last year. Hearings dragged out through the winter with multiple plans drawn and discarded. Then with less than two hours before the Legislative session was scheduled to end by law, the state senate rushed to adopt the 62/31 plan finalized earlier in the day by the Joint Conference Committee. Based on the House bill, the plan expands the legislature by three seats, is out of deviation in Sheridan County and contains un-nested House and Senate seats. It drew opposition from both sides of the aisle in the waning hours of the budget session. Senate minority Leader Chris Rothfuss called it unconstitutional.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0328_Sen-Chris-Rothfuss.mp3 Governor Gordon, responding to a question from Bigfoot 99 the Monday after the legislature adjourned, said he was generally satisfied with the plan the legislature produced even though it came down to the wire.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0328_Gov-Gordon-1.mp3 One of the guiding legal guidelines in redistricting the state was to craft a plan that is legally defensible. Adhering to the constitutional principle of “One person, one vote” was the prime directive. The Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution requires that that “as nearly as is practicable one man’s vote in a congressional election is to be worth as much as another’s.”
To achieve the goal of each vote being of equal mathematical measure, courts have found that the maximum population deviation between the smallest and the largest district must be within 10% of each other. The legislature’s plan allows Johnson and Sheridan Counties to be out of deviation. Bigfoot 99 asked the governor if he feels the plan can stand up to a potential lawsuit.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0328_Gov-Gordon-2.mp3 Another issue with the plan is that it has residents of Clearmont in Sheridan County voting in Johnson County. The governor said that redrawing the statewide voting maps in light of a decade of population shifts in Wyoming was “a hard nut to crack.” He said residents of Clearmont that he had talked to thought that lawmakers had found the correct balance.
Governor Gordon also questioned the accuracy of the census. The head-counting took place at the height of the Covid scare in 2020. The country itself changed as local governments across the country reacted differently to the pandemic, and people began leaving congested urban areas to work remotely or find new opportunities in Wyoming. What the U.S. Census says is Wyoming’s population, and what it actually is likely are different, the Governor said.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0328_Gov-Gordon-3.mp3 Some towns and counties in Wyoming are looking to challenge the official census. According to the language in the bill, it became law immediately upon the governor allowing it to move forward without veto as provided by Article 4, Section 8 of the Wyoming Constitution.
Related: Legislative session wraps up with approval of $2.7B budget, 62/31 plan
Related: With revenues at stake, Wyoming communities plan to challenge 2020 census
March 17, 2022 |
The audit of the Town of Saratoga’s financial records for the year that ended June 30, 2020 was finally delivered this week.
The accounting firm, Fagnant, Lewis and Brinda of Lander prepared the report. A Certified Public Account with the firm, Tim Fixter, addressed the town council about the long-awaited audit in a Zoom meeting Tuesday evening. The audit covers 2019-2020, the time period when years of poor bookkeeping came to light. Fixter recalled that time in his presentation.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0317_Saratoga-Audit-1.mp3 Pictured above: File photo of Saratoga Town Hall/Police Department. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
No one was expecting a rosy audit from the fiscal year the report covers, and the town did not get one. The findings over the deficiencies of internal controls are significant, and indicate systemic failures years in the making.
The audit includes a qualified opinion, which government entities work to avoid. The findings focus on material weaknesses, including the lack of documentation over journal entries, credit cards, petty cash and notes payable. There’s no paper trail showing how money came in, went out or was transferred between various accounts.
The lack of documentation is the reason why it took nearly two years to produce an audit.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0317_Headline_Saratoga-Audit.mp3 Questions raised in 2019 about how the books were maintained were met first with resistance and then reluctant acceptance of bringing in an outside accountant. Fixter noted that the recommendations made by the accountant, James Childress, were rejected. Fixter also said that no changes were made to tighten internal controls and the problems persisted.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0317_Saratoga-Audit-2.mp3 The sloppiness abounded. For starters, no one knew how many credit cards were issued in the town’s name, what the limits were or how charges should be entered into the system—or if they were. Nearly half—18 of 40—disbursement samples were missing documentation. The audit also states that employee benefits policies were not followed, resulting in the payout of $44,000 more than policy allowed for accrued leave.
The biggest takeaway in the audit: Saratoga was broke on July 1, 2019. The report shows the town’s net position at the start of the fiscal year was $1.3 million in the red. However, undocumented transfers from enterprise accounts to the general fund hid the negative general fund balance at the time. Questions that were asked at the time about the town’s real financial position were met with hostility at town council meetings by then Mayor John Zeiger and the loyalists in his administration. Behind the scenes, attorneys were retained and lawsuits threatened.
The audit released this week validates the questions and suspicions that were raised in the fall of 2019. In the fallout from those continuing questions, Zeiger resigned mid-term. His hand-picked successor also abandoned ship a few months later. The town clerk at the center of the storm retired. The town attorney quit, as well.
The CPA who conducted the audit, Fixter, thanked the members of the current administration for their help in piecing together the puzzle of records to get as accurate a picture as possible.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0317_Saratoga-Audit-3.mp3 Each of the deficient findings in the audit’s opinions are accompanied with a recommendation. The corrective tips include specific advice on establishing, protocols, controls and oversight in every area where the clerk and treasurer handle and track the public’s money.
The most noteworthy coaching advice from the CPA to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past is that accounting tasks, such as making ledger entries, should be done in an established “Town of Saratoga Way,” and not the way an individual employee thinks it should be done.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0317_Saratoga-Audit-4.mp3 Fixter said the 2021 audit will look similar because the new administration was not able to make changes until after the financials were submitted. The CPA recommended moving forward as quickly as possible to finish the 2021 FY budget and then look to see the results of changes that have been established begin to show up in the 2022 audit—which is just three months away.
Related: Town of Saratoga’s 2020 audit may be nearing completion, will likely come with ‘adverse opinion’
Related: Accounting firm says poor record keeping will keep Saratoga from a clean audit
Related: Saratoga hires Lander auditing firm
Related: Saratoga’s true financial picture finally clear
Related: Mayor of Saratoga announces resignation
March 17, 2022 |
The Rawlins City Council voted 4-1 to terminate the agreement with John Bruhl, the concessionaire operating the bar and grill at the Rochelle Ranch municipal golf course.
The decision came following a week’s worth of building frustration and accusations by the various parties involved. Cali O’Hare has followed the chaotic twists and turns and brings you the story.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/031722_Rawlins-Council-Terminates-Agreement-with-Rochelle-Ranch-Concessionaire.mp3 Pictured above: File photo of the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course entrance. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Click here to view a copy of the contract signed by Mr. John Bruhl to operate the restaurant at Rochelle as an independent contractor
Related: Rawlins changing processes, readvertising for Rochelle Ranch concessionaire
Related: Rawlins City Council shuts down Rochelle Ranch restaurant
Related: Owners of Wing and Burger Box food truck take over Rochelle Ranch restaurant
Related: Rochelle Ranch Golf Course opens with new restaurant
Related: Rawlins City Council taking hard look at golf course issues
Related: Rochelle Ranch featured in Golfweek magazine
Related: Concessionaire sought to run golf course restaurant
Related: Rawlins golf course wrestling with revenue woes
Related: City of Rawlins to manage golf course restaurant again
Related: City of Rawlins seeking concessionaire to run Rochelle Ranch golf course
Related: City of Rawlins takes financial hit over golf course restaurant
March 17, 2022 |
As we reported in part one of our story about the City of Rawlins terminating its agreement with a concessionaire for the restaurant of the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course, officials are updating the agreement and the requests for proposals to make sure all terms are clear. They say they’re trying to strike a balance between staying out of private business matters and being business-friendly. Cali O’Hare has more.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/031722_Rawlins-Changing-Processes-Readvertising-for-Rochelle-Ranch-Concessionaire.mp3 Pictured above: File photo of the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course entrance. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Related: Rawlins City Council terminates agreement with Rochelle Ranch concessionaire
Related: Rawlins City Council shuts down Rochelle Ranch restaurant
Related: Owners of Wing and Burger Box food truck take over Rochelle Ranch restaurant
Related: Rochelle Ranch Golf Course opens with new restaurant
Related: Rawlins City Council taking hard look at golf course issues
Related: Rochelle Ranch featured in Golfweek magazine
Related: Concessionaire sought to run golf course restaurant
Related: Rawlins golf course wrestling with revenue woes
Related: City of Rawlins to manage golf course restaurant again
Related: City of Rawlins seeking concessionaire to run Rochelle Ranch golf course
Related: City of Rawlins takes financial hit over golf course restaurant
March 16, 2022 |
In an update to a story Bigfoot 99 has been following, the youth crisis center in Rawlins has been open for an entire month under the leadership of the Volunteers of America Northern Rockies. Cali O’Hare reports on how things are going.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/031622_Five-Juveniles-Placed-at-Stepping-Stones-in-Month-Since-Volunteers-of-America-Reopened-Carbon-County-Youth-Crisis-Center.mp3 Pictured above: Stepping Stones Youth Home operated by Volunteers of America Northern Rockies. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
To see if Stepping Stones is a good fit for your needs, call 307-672-0475.
Related: Officials hear update on Youth Crisis Center, now Stepping Stones Youth Home
Related: Carbon County, City of Rawlins looking to Volunteers of America to reopen Youth Crisis Center
Related: County officials say they’re doing everything possible to reopen Youth Crisis Center
Related: Youth Crisis Center closes due to ‘staffing issues that could not be overcome’
March 16, 2022 |
Wyoming Game and Fish is looking for answers. Who stocked Saratoga Lake illegally with non-native yellow perch? And what is the best way to deal with what is being called a “devastating” discovery. Yellow perch can destroy a trout fishery. Illegal stocking is the only way the species found their way into the lake, officials told Bigfoot 99, and the agency is requesting tips from the public and offering a reward.
Alan Osterlund, the chief of fisheries for the state game agency, said the perch were discovered last year during a routine check of the lake. Their presence threatens more than just the trout in the lake. They pose a threat to species downstream, including walleye in Seminole and the blue-ribbon trout in Grey Reef. Along the way, the yellow perch will compete for the same habitat, or “groceries,” as native species, Osterlund said.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0316_Yellow-Perch-Discovered-1.mp3 Pictured above: Saratoga Lake campground. Photo courtesy of the Town of Saratoga.
The direct pathway connection between Saratoga Lake and the Platte River system makes the discovery of the yellow perch alarming to fishery and habitat specialists like Osterlund. Saratoga Lake is managed as a trout fishery and the department does not stock any cool-warm-water fish there, including yellow perch.
The favored habitat of yellow perch are weedy, warm water lakes. They spawn in the spring when water temperatures are in the 45° to 50°F range. So the perch that were illegally stocked into Saratoga Lake will likely not do well, said Osterlund.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0316_Yellow-Perch-Discovered-2.mp3 Osterlund said if you catch a yellow perch; keep it, no matter the size. The limit is 50. Game and Fish wants to remove as many perch from Saratoga Lake as possible. State biologists keep close tabs on what species are in the system. The agency reports that yellow perch had not been identified anywhere in the North Platte upstream of Glendo Reservoir. We asked Osterlund why someone would introduce the species into Saratoga Lake.
Yellow perch. Photo courtesy WGFD. https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0316_Yellow-Perch-Discovered-3.mp3 If left unchecked, yellow perch can take over a lake and destroy a trout fishery. That happened at Black Hills Power and Light Reservoir near Newcastle. Game and Fish no longer manages abandoned the reservoir as a managed trout fishery after yellow perch were stocked illegally.
The agency is moving quickly to prevent a similar occurrence at Saratoga Lake and to protect the downstream system fisheries. The department has cut off the fresh water flow to the lake to prevent yellow perch from moving into the North Platte drainage. The agency is assessing other possible responses to preserve Saratoga Lake as a trout fishery.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0316_Yellow-Perch-Discovered-4.mp3 To submit information contact the Stop Poaching Hotline at 1-877-WGFD-TIP. A reward is available and your identity will remain confidential. Illegal fish stockings are a high misdemeanor punishable with up to one year in jail and fines up to $10,000.
March 16, 2022 |
Off-track betting could be coming to Rawlins. 307 Horse Racing, a Wyoming-based business licensed by the state gaming commission to operate pari-mutial racing is planning open up shop on Cedar Street. It’s more than just gaming. It’s about a half-dozen good paying jobs. Cali O’Hare has the story.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/031622_307-Horse-Racing-Purchases-Three-Fiddlers-Restaurant-on-Cedar-Street-Plan-for-30-Terminals.mp3 Pictured above: 2019 file photo of the Three Fiddlers restaurant at 310 W Cedar Street, which was recently purchased by 307 Horse Racing. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
For more information about 307 Horse Racing, click here: https://www.307horseracing.com
Click here to view the resolution regarding 307 Horse Racing
Related: Wyoming Downs to expand into Carbon County
Related: Rawlins FD investigating restaurant fire
March 15, 2022 |
More than two years after Wyoming’s Covid-related public health emergency went into effect with the stroke of a pen; it came to an end yesterday the same way. Governor Mark Gordon signed an executive order.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0315_Gov-Gordon-1.mp3 Pictured above: File photo of mask requirement sign.
The governor issued the “Declaration of State Emergency and a Public Health Emergency” on March 11, 2020 as the COVID scare swept the United States. It was a Wednesday. The first case of the then unusual respiratory disease had been confirmed in Wyoming. By Friday, then President Donald Trump declared a national emergency. On Sunday, March 15th, Governor Mark Gordon ordered that K-12 schools in Wyoming should close through April 3rd. In rapid succession through a series of proclamations and executive orders, Americans found themselves living in an Official State of Emergency.
Each state approached the situation differently. Some governors exerted iron-fisted control over the healthy while sending Covid-infected patients to nursing homes. Others took measured approaches. Some states still operate with more restrictions than Wyoming ever endured at the height of the pandemic.
Wyoming went into something close to a lockdown for nearly two months in 2020. Some businesses, including restaurants, gyms and hairdressers, could not open at all for several weeks. As restrictions eased, restaurants could offer carry-out and then under strictly regulated seating arrangements. Church services were cancelled, even at Easter. “Social distancing” became the catch-phrase. Isolation and fear became the reality.
Slowly over the six months following Easter, Wyoming’s public health orders were eased. Some counties operated under stricter rules than others. Some individuals ignored the orders as much as they could. Under the terms of the original executive order, the emergency could only be rescinded by the governor.
Yesterday, Governor Gordon signed Executive Order 2202-03: “Executive Order Rescinding Declaration Of A State Of Emergency And Public Health Emergency.” The EO is effective immediately.
Bigfoot 99 yesterday asked the governor to evaluate how Wyoming handled the crisis compared to other states and what lessons were learned. Gordon gave the state an above average grade.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/0315_Gov-Gordon-2.mp3 The governor also praised the rapid development of the mRNA technology as the medical response to the virus. Although like everything associated with governmental response to the virus, the “vaccines” themselves—both their effectiveness and potential harm to some—remain controversial.
In addition to the EO rescinding the state of emergency, Governor Gordon yesterday signed a second order aimed at helping nursing shortages around Wyoming. EO 2022 allows nurses and nursing assistants licensed in other jurisdictions to provide nursing care in Wyoming in order to address staffing shortages.
Related: Wyoming’s COVID-19 Public Health Emergency declaration to end March 14
Related: Gov. Gordon announces statewide mask mandate, tougher COVID restrictions
Related: Gov. Gordon blames ‘knuckleheads’ for COVID surge, warns of heavier restrictions
Related: Exclusive Interview: Gov. Mark Gordon talks COVID, economy, election and UW football
Related: Gov. Gordon easing COVID-19 restrictions
Related: Gov. Gordon joins four other governors in battle with feds over National Guard vax mandates
Related: Gov. Gordon talks vax mandate, grizzly lawsuits against Biden administration
Related: Wyoming part of 27-state coalition asking Supreme Court to reinstate vax mandate injunction
Related: Gov. Gordon won’t issue mask mandate for schools
Related: Vaccine mandates: Wyoming Democrats oppose special session, Gov. Gordon plotting legal action against Biden
Related: Governor asks residents to remain calm as COVID-19 arrives in Wyoming
March 15, 2022 |
HF Sinclair: It’s official. HollyFrontier and Holly Energy Partners announced the completion of a multi-billion dollar deal with the Sinclair Companies and the establishment of a new parent company HF Sinclair Corporation. Stocks are publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol: DINO. Cali O’Hare has the story.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/031522_HollyFrontier-and-Holly-Energy-Partners-Announce-Completion-of-Transactions-with-Sinclair-Companies-and-Establishment-of-New-Parent-Company-HF-Sinclair-Corporation.mp3 Pictured above: File photo of the refinery in Sinclair. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Related: HollyFrontier Corporation acquiring Sinclair Oil Corp., Sinclair Transportation Co.
March 15, 2022 |
The Rawlins City Council will meet with the Urban Deer Advisory Group in a work session tonight to discuss moving forward with the management program following the 2021 cull.
Under the direction of the new chief of police, the RPD will not be a part of any future lethal cull, resulting in a lack of consensus among the advisory group on how to proceed. Cali O’Hare has a preview of tonight’s discussion.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/031522_Rawlins-Council-Deer-Advisory-Group-to-Discuss-Dissent-at-Workshop-Tonight.mp3 Pictured above: Urban deer in Rawlins. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Related: Rawlins culls 22 deer during 2021 season, none positive for CWD
Related: RPD reports 60 deer-related incidents so far in 2020
Related: Few CWD cases reported in Rawlins deer cull
Related: Cull takes CWD deer out of urban population
Related: Urban deer advisory group discusses details of next cull
Related: Advisory group recommends City of Rawlins obtain deer culling permit
March 14, 2022 |
A snowmobiler was caught, buried, and killed in an avalanche near Willow Park in the Encampment River Wilderness Saturday afternoon.
A preliminary report from Colorado Avalanche Information Center states that the incident occurred within old snow at an elevation around 10,000 feet. The avalanche occurred on northeast-facing slope around 2 p.m., according to the report. No other information was available.
Photo courtesy Colorado Avalanche Information Center.
Related: Casper woman killed in snowmobile crash near Ryan Park
Related: Search and rescue team aids snowmobilers, hiker on Christmas Eve
February 10, 2022 |
A bill ready for introduction during the upcoming legislative session would give county road and bridge departments more flexibility in awarding maintenance work.
Senate File 18 raises the minimum threshold amount for competitive bidding on road, bridge and culvert maintenance projects from $50,000 to $75,000. The bill specifies that the funding must come from a separate account dedicated solely for maintenance projects. The Transportation Committee sponsored the bill. Carbon County already uses a maintenance account for funding repairs on the road system here.
Carbon County Road and Bridge Superintendent Kandis Fritz said she welcomes the $25,000 increase in minimum threshold that the bill proposes.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/0210_Kandis-Fritz-1.mp3 Local governments are required to advertise for competitive bids when procurements exceed certain dollar thresholds. Bidding introduces competition with the intent to keep prices lower. The process also guards against favoritism, extravagance and fraud. It also causes administrative delays, impeding immediate repair work. With the increased threshold, Senate File 18 calls for a standards committee to bird dog any “egregious misuse of county road construction and maintenance funds.”
Fritz noted the bill also includes another provision that could be a big assist for Carbon County.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/0210_Kandis-Fritz-2.mp3 Pictured above: Damage at the bridge over Beaver Creek. Photo courtesy Road and Bridge Superintendent, Kandis Fritz.
According to the language in the bill, not more than $100,000 can come from the county road and bridge maintenance fund for the lease or purchase of motor graders. Fritz said that would be another big benefit to her department, which is responsible for grading and plowing hundreds of miles of roads each year.
If Senate File 18 passes during the upcoming budget session, it would become effective on July 1st.
February 10, 2022 |
In an effort to prevent the misuse of prescription medications, particularly opioids, Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is now offering free pouches which allow for the safe disposal of pills, patches, liquids, creams and films by rendering the drugs inert. Cali O’Hare reports.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/0210_Drug-Disposal-Pouch.mp3 Pictured above: Deterra Drug Deactivation Systems. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
February 10, 2022 |
The Hollywood version of “Joe Pickett,” based on Wyoming author C.J. Box’s famous game warden, has been renewed for a second season. The small screen version stars Michael Dorman as the relentless, red-shirted Wyoming game warden tracking down more than just backwoods poachers in a dark, post-modern, Western landscape.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/0210_Joe-Pickett.mp3 Photo courtesy of Spectrum.
Many of the settings in the Joe Pickett series of novels are set in or inspired by Carbon County locations. Writer C.J. Box lives in the Platte Valley just outside of Saratoga town limits. The television series is produced by Spectrum Originals, which reports that the show has been seen in one million households since it was launched in December. The show is currently available exclusively on its Spectrum service and will launch on Paramount+ at a later date.
February 10, 2022 |
Bobbi Barrasso, wife of Wyoming’s U.S. Senator John Barrasso, underwent successful surgical removal of an intracranial lesion Wednesday at the University of Colorado Medical Center. A full recovery is expected. Senator Barrasso said in a statement that his wife is doing well, and he and Bobbi are both “very thankful.”
Pictured above: John and Bobbi Barrasso. Photo courtesy Sen. John Barrasso/Twitter.
February 10, 2022 |
In Rawlins, Louis Espinoza Jr. is February’s Community Builder Award recipient. He was nominated for his role in youth sports — he’s coached generations of athletes in Rawlins. Cali O’Hare has the story.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/021022_Louis-Espinoza-Junior-Recognized-as-February-Community-Builder-Recipient.mp3 Pictured above: Louis Espinoza, Jr. receiving the Community Builder Award for February, alongside his brothers (left), Mayor Terry Weickum (right), and father Louis Espinoza, Sr. (far right). Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
Related: City of Rawlins announces new Community Builder Award
February 9, 2022 |
The Saratoga Town Council and Joint Powers Water and Sewer Board found little upon which to agree during a 90-minute workshop Monday to discuss moving forward with replacing an aging and troubled water line this year.
The $1.7 million project would be paid for with 6th Penny Tax dollars. Monday’s meeting followed a presentation last week by two engineering firms the town contacted to discuss the feasibility of completing the project this year.
Mayor Creed James began the workshop with appeal for collaboration between the two government entities.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/0209_Workshop-1.mp3 The mayor and council want to move quickly on the project to avoid increased costs from both repairs of the existing line and price hikes on materials for the replacement. For instance, council learned last week that the cost of pipe is expected to increase 15 percent next week. Although appearing sensitive to the council’s concerns, members of the JPB expressed alternating concerns. One was that the town is rushing the job. The other complaint was that the town is wasting time exploring alternate methods of hiring out the work which makes the board uncomfortable.
The history of the standoff starts in December. The JPB approved a motion to put the Spring Avenue water project out to bid on a “design-bid-build construction” basis. Town council, concerned that process might cause delays, explored other delivery methods. The JPB took this move as council ignoring its mandate. The board members declined to participate in the process of engaging with engineering firms prior to last week’s council meeting.
On Monday, the JPB questioned the transparency of the process they chose not to participate in. Others questioned legality of not going out to bid during the first phase of one method, “construction manager at risk.” Mayor James assured the JPB that the town attorney advised that process is complies with state statute. The mayor described using an alternate delivery system as a different way of tying your shoes. Either way, your shoes are tied, he concluded. As the conversation evolved, tensions between the two boards became apparent.
JPB chair Richard Raymer said the alternate process makes him uncomfortable. Raymer said he thought the town was rushing the project.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/0209_Workshop-2.mp3 Pictured above: File photo of Downtown Saratoga. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
The JPB did not recommend the Spring Avenue project until December, after the pipe blew in October. As late as September 8th, the JPB had identified the aging clay line as a “time bomb,” but still considered replacing one of the water storage tanks as its top priority. At that meeting, board member Russ Waldner acknowledged in an exchange with Saratoga Town Councilman Jon Nelson that the JPB had not pursued projects even though it had $2 million in tax revenues plus other reserves available.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/0209_Workshop-3.mp3 The $2 million in 6th Penny Tax revenues Nelson referred to is more than enough to fund the water main project. The JPB was unaware of all the funds available to it because of the town’s legacy of financial problems stemming from a decade or more of bad bookkeeping spanning several administrations. The chair of the JPB was a town council member during one of those administrations. Last year, as a new clerk and treasurer sorted out the longstanding mess, the amount of money in water and sewer enterprise accounts could only be estimated.
In one of the telling moments of Monday’s workshop, Mayor James pushed back against the JPB chair Raymer’s claim that the board was never informed how much money it had available for projects. The mayor said the amount of specific purpose tax dollars was easy to track down.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/0209_Workshop-4.mp3 The pointed remarks came after Raymer expressed frustration that JPB had been left out of the process of selecting the two engineering firms which gave presentations at last week’s meeting. However, the JPB declined the town’s invitation to join a conference phone call with the firms. Nor did it offer any suggestions of other engineering firms to contact for the council meeting.
JPB member Waldner offered a different objection to the town pursing a different delivery system that the one that the board had approved in December. Waldner said the town was wasting valuable time.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/0209_Workshop-5.mp3 Saratoga Town Councilman Ron Hutchins, noting that the JPB had not undertaken a single water main replacement project in a decade, said the time-killer is that the JPB has not been proactive in developing the scoping for projects so the engineering is on the shelf and ready to go when needed.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/0209_Workshop-6.mp3 The response to Hutchins’ questions exposed the elephant in the room. The JPB has been clueless about its funding, and has not taken any steps to get a handle on it. Several board members pointed a finger at Nelson during the workshop, blaming the councilman for their lack of knowledge about their funding. It wasn’t clear why. In fact, Councilman Nelson first raised questions about the JPB’s enterprise accounts two years ago amidst much controversy about how the town has been handling its books. Although the JPB was the beneficiary of Nelson’s efforts, none of the board members joined the fight publicly to demand an accounting of what town owed the JPB from water and sewer fees.
The exposure of the JPB’s lack of financial record-keeping resulted in the most productive takeaway from the workshop. Raymer requested that the town clerk supply the JPB with monthly accounting reports moving forward. The only other real point of agreement between the two entities was that both rejected the design-build delivery system as viable for the Spring Avenue water main project. Because it was a workshop, no official decisions were made. The JPB is scheduled to meet tonight at 6 p.m. at the Platte Valley Community Center.
Related: Saratoga officials to discuss water line presentations at workshop today
Related: Saratoga Town Council aims to have downtown water line replaced in 2022
Related: Service restored to most of Saratoga after water main break
Related: Town of Saratoga’s 2020 audit may be nearing completion, will likely come with ‘adverse opinion’
Related: Saratoga’s true financial picture finally clear
Related: Saratoga Town Council reaches agreement in correcting financials
February 9, 2022 |
The City of Rawlins has gone out to bid on new equipment for the weight room at the family recreation center to replace the outdated equipment which, by all estimates, is at least fifteen years old. The new equipment will be state-of-the-art, and also accessible to those who use mobility aids. Cali O’Hare reports.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/020922_Rawlins-to-Replace-Recreation-Center-Weight-Room-Equipment-Flooring.mp3 Pictured above: Weight room at the Rawlins Recreation Center. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
February 8, 2022 |
With the retirement of the superintendent of Carbon County School District 2 approaching quickly, the process of vetting a successor begins in earnest this month. Dr. Jim Copeland announced in October that he will retire at the end of this school year after eight years with the district.
The list of applicants for the superintendent position has been pared down to three finalists. Two of the candidates are from within the district. The third grew up here.
One of the candidates, Darrin Jennings, has served as interim superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal and teacher in the Carbon 2 district. Jennings has over 20 years of experience in the field.
Noel Manning currently serves as the district’s Director of Curriculum. Manning has 14 years of education experience.
The third finalist, Coley Shadrick, was raised in the Platte Valley and is currently serving in his fifth year as the Superintendent for Converse County School District 2 in Glenrock.
The Board of Trustees will meet in three executive sessions this month to interview the candidates. Public meetings with each of the candidates will be held in Saratoga and in Hanna, also in the coming weeks.
The Board of Trustees of Carbon County School District 2 will meet in Executive Session on February 15, 17 and the 22nd to interview the candidates. The executive session meetings will be held in the White Room at the Platte Valley Community Center.
Public meetings will also be held with the candidates this month in a series of community forums where district staff, patrons and members of the community will be able to ask questions. Here is the schedule for the community forums:
Darrin Jennings will be at the Hanna Rec Center on February 14 and at the PVCC on February 15th.
Noel Manning will be available for comments and questions in Hanna on February 16 and in Saratoga the following night on February 17.
Coley Shadrick will be in Hanna at the Rec Center on February 21s and at the Platte Valley Community Center in Saratoga on February 22nd.
The public meetings in Hanna and Saratoga are scheduled to start at 5:30.
Community and staff can submit questions before the meetings through a portal on the Carbon 2 website.
The cover letters submitted by each of the candidates are posted on the Carbon County District 2 website, as well, along with the times and dates of this month’s public question and answer sessions.
When Dr. Copeland announced his retirement in October, Bigfoot 99’s Cali O’Hare produced a profile of the outgoing superintendent. Here it is.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/020822_CCSD2-Trustees-Schedule-Forums-Executive-Sessions-with-Superintendent-Candidates.mp3 Pictured above: CCSD2 Superintendent Jim Copeland and a copy of the letter announcing his retirement. Courtesy CCSD2.
Carbon County School District 2 website: https://www.crb2.org/
February 8, 2022 |
It’s going to be a good river year. That’s what locals have been saying for the last month other in casual conversations. The official forecasts of river flows this spring, which are based on statistical measurements, are making the same case. There will be plenty of water this spring.
The latest report from the NRCS puts the snowpack and water equivalency levels right on bubble – 100 to 105 percent of the 30-year median. Water year to date—the water year begins in October—is around 115 percent of median, according to report released yesterday by state hydrologist James Fahey. The report concludes that stream flows along the Upper North Platte River for April through July should be about 114 percent above the median.
Seminoe Reservoir inflows are forecasted to be 115% of median. In other words, the locals are right, irrigators and river runners are in for a good year.
Pictured above: File photo of the Upper North Platte River. Photo by Bigfoot 99.
February 8, 2022 |
In Rawlins, repairs to the Sage Creek Pipeline which moves water from the springs south of town to the treatment plant got underway in December, and the work has been anything but smooth. At the recommendation of City Engineer Austin Gilbert, the Rawlins City Council voted 6-1 to use up to $100,000 in project funding to pay another engineer to oversee the contractor. Cali O’Hare reports.
https://bigfoot99.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/020822_Early-Repairs-to-Sage-Creek-Pipeline-Off-to-Rocky-Start.mp3 Pictured above: Rawlins City Hall. Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.