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09/06/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Sep 6, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentU.S. House candidates talk reform in Cheyenne
“Under a big tent in front of the stately stone Union Pacific train depot, the candidates for Wyoming's U.S. House seat took part in a forum Friday as the crowd feasted on barbecued ribs…. ”
Judge will choose new SWC commissioner
“And the winner for the open Sweetwater County Commission seat is .... none of the above….”
Canadian oil company lays off workers
“A Canadian-based oil company that specializes in underground oil drilling is laying off more than half its work force, most of them in Wyoming….”
“Representatives with the petroleum industry are unhappy with a newly proposed management plan for the Pinedale region, and they are calling for a do-over on the part of the federal government….”
Natrona County High School student receives distinction
“The Natrona County High School student council was recently awarded the title of Honor Council with Meritorious Distinction from the Wyoming Association of Student Councils. This marks NC's sixth consecutive honor, and is the highest award at the state level a council can receive. This summer at the National Student Council Convention in Justin, Texas, NC's student council was one of only two in Wyoming and one of only 126 councils nationwide to receive a National Gold Council of Excellence award. The award is three years old, and NCHS is the only Wyoming school that has been awarded this every year. The student council's advisors are Bruce Berst and Devon Strube-Martin.”'Rally Days' begin autumn Sunday season
“September means the beginning of autumn, the start of football season, the first days of school -- and, for some, returning to church….”
State HR group plans conference
“The Wyoming State Council of the Society for Human Resource Management will host its annual state conference Sept. 25-26 in Casper, according to a release. The theme of this year's conference is "HR in Wyoming: Expanding Your Toolkit." Dr. William Guillory, an authority on diversity, high performance, leadership, creativity, innovation and quantum thinking, is the keynote speaker. Other presentations include "Energy's Affects on the Future of Wyoming HR," "Ten HR Challenges That Should Keep You Awake at Night," and "Building a Recognition Culture." In addition, there will be both strategic and tactical sessions offered on topics such as Wyoming Veteran employees returning from duty, the legalities of reference checking, and updates on HIPAA, COBRA, and fiduciary duties. For more information, call (307) 237-7311 or visit http://www.wyoming.shrm.org/ and click on Calendar.”LTE: Excuses follow cycle of deception by DUFFY JENNIGES, Gillette
“After a self-imposed inner exile, I am now on a quest for some answers. Maybe some of the hard-core Republicans can explain them for me. 1. I know that we are supposed to be "Cowboy Tough" and be ready to "Cowboy Up." We are constantly told that we are free thinkers and we aren't like everybody else in this country. Why is it that whenever our federal representatives decide to band together and vote against a specific bill, we are told that it is good for the rest of the country, but it is no good for us in Wyoming? I have a hard time believing we are that far out of the mainstream? 2. Now that the primary is over and we are on our way to the general election, we have a new person carrying the banner for the Republicans, but she starts out the same way the old one did business. First, you start off by going negative, and when it gets headlines, then comes the lame apology and shock and dismay if there is any kind of reciprocation, then comes the hurt and bewilderment. Am I the only one who has watched this repeated on a regular basis for the past 14 years? If nothing changes this time around, we will be on the outside looking in again. True insanity is doing the same thing the same way time after time and expecting different results.”
LTE: Representative connects her state MICHAEL KENNEY, Dubois, General manager, Dubois Telephone PRO-CUBIN
“As the legislative career of U.S. Rep. Barbara Cubin comes to a close this year, I think it is appropriate to take a moment to thank her for some key advocacy efforts during her years of service. I am sure that other folks can provide additional examples of how she has successfully worked on behalf of constituent issues and our state, but I would like to focus on one important issue where Rep. Cubin has proved invaluable to Wyoming. In a state where the energy, tourism and agriculture industries seem to garner the most attention, the news doesn’t always report that Wyoming is also home to some of the most innovative and forward-looking rural telecommunications companies in the country. Providing the least populated state with reliable and affordable phone service and broadband communications is no easy task. It requires the work of dedicated people and companies willing to serve rural communities. The investment and expense of doing so requires genuine advocacy in Washington for policies that continue to Keep Rural America Connected. Rep. Cubin has been a member of the House subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet for more than 10 years. In that position of leadership she has successfully advocated for the advancement of telecommunications services to every corner of Wyoming. In fact, rural telecommunications companies that serve sparsely populated areas all over the country have acknowledged Rep. Cubin’s leadership on rural technology issues. Our state is truly lucky to have had a strong voice in support of rural telecommunications in Congress, and that voice will be missed. So, the next time you talk on the phone, turn on your television, take a college course on line, download a movie or check your email, keep in mind that for the last decade, Rep. Cubin has played a critical role in keeping you and Wyoming connected to the world. Thank you Barbara.”
LTE: Profit motive trumps all ideology by FRANCIS WILLIAM BESSLER, Laramie
“…And beware of real motive. I think a lot of Republicans and Democrats are members of that which could be called the "Industrial Party," but the industrial party is neither Republican nor Democratic. Its membership are those who believe in "industrial freedom" as the most important freedom, and are only socially oriented secondarily. …”
LTE: Selectivity bends constitutional intent by MARIE BROSSMAN, Lander
“The Casper Star-Tribune applauds the demise of a state gun rights bill and then preaches Wyoming should definitely comply with the feds (Aug. 31 editorial). Would the editorial staff rejoice if a pro freedom of the press proposal failed? They defend (their version of) the First Amendment but denigrate the Second. …”
Should we call all of them Wyomingites?
“All three U.S. House candidates said where they were born isn't an election issue, yet they debated it anyway….”
Cheyenne closer to getting computer
“Sponsors say they want to build a supercomputer in Cheyenne, which could soon mean more jobs for the city and more scientific clout for UW….”
Analysis: Obama's pitch ... Fire GOP, hire me
“With two months left, the presidential election seems likely to turn on whether Barack Obama can make himself sufficiently acceptable to millions of disgruntled Americans eager to toss Republicans from the White House if they see a safe, competent alternative….”
House candidates speak in Cheyenne
“The candidates for Wyoming's seat in the U.S. House spoke at a forum in Cheyenne yesterday….”Rock Well Petroleum Lays Off 180 Workers
“A Canadian-based oil company that specializes in underground oil drilling is laying off more than half its work force, most of them in Wyoming….”Carbon County agrees to new wind farms
“The Carbon County Planning Commission has approved the construction of two new wind farms on land zoned for ranching, agriculture and mining in the eastern part of the county….”Government Plans To Rescue Fannie, Freddie
‘The government is preparing to takeover mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, according to reports in The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times on Saturday. An announcement could come as early as this weekend….’
Double Eagle Petroleum Co. reports record production
LCCC celebrates 40th anniversary
First Wyo rep joins NADO board
Laramie delegates pleased with ticket
“Two Laramie residents who attended the Republican National Convention (RNC) in St. Paul, Minn., this week said they are excited about their party’s candidates as they advance to the general election in November. Kristi Wallin and Tammy Johnson, both of Laramie, said the RNC turned out to be an inspiration and exciting event, even though Hurricane Gustav cut the first day short….”
“Not merely a Republican. Not merely a candidate. John McCain cast himself as a leader for all Americans, regardless of party or status….”
*** Talking Reform: U.S House candidates meet in forum
“Under a big tent in front of the stately stone Union Pacific train depot, the candidates for Wyoming’s U.S. House seat took part in a forum Friday as the crowd feasted on barbecued ribs. Part of RibFest, the candidates offered a range of views on boosting energy production , reducing the influence of special interests, improving health care and other topics. But all three agreed on one thing: Congress hasn’t gotten its act together on the big problems facing the nation. Republican Cynthia Lummis said Wyoming could each Washington a thing or two about balanced budgets and good governance….”
*** RockWell to cut 180 jobs: 15 salaried positions in Sheridan among those to be eliminated
“RockWell Petroleum Inc., an oil development and production company with assets in Wyoming, Pennsylvania, Texas and Louisiana, announced Friday it is cutting more than half its work force — including 15 salaried positions in Sheridan. According to Phoebe Buckland, the company’s communications director, about 180 of the firm’s approximately 300 employees lost their jobs yesterday. Buckland said most of the layoffs here in Wyoming. Cuts were made in all areas, but technical workers such as miners and drillers were hit hardest, she added….”
*** Highway trust fund to run out of money
“The federal highway trust fund will run out of money this month, requiring delays in payments to states for transportation construction projects, Transportation Secretary Mary Peters said Friday. The trust fund — a federal account used to help pay for highway and bridge projects — will run about $8.3 billion short by the end of September, Peters said during a conference call with reporters. The shortfall will mean short delays — and in some cases a temporary reduction — in payments to states for infrastructure projects the federal government has agreed to help finance. Peters blamed the funding shortage on the high price of gasoline, which has prompted Americans to drive less. This means less fuel has been purchased, and less gasoline taxes collected for the trust fund. Americans drove 50 billion fewer miles between November and June 2008 than during the same period a year earlier.
Compounding the problem, Peters said, is federal lawmakers’ habit of loading up highway spending bills with pet projects, or earmarks, for their home states. The current highway spending bill has more than $24 billion in earmarks, she said….”
The candidates for Wyoming's U.S. House seat took part in a forum to discuss views on boosting energy production, reducing the influence of special interests, improving health care & more
A Canadian-based oil company that specializes in underground oil drilling is laying off more than half its work force, most of them in Wyoming
Record Production For Petro Company
Double Eagle Petroleum Co. announced this August's total net production beat August 2007 production by 186 percent, exceeding July 2008 production by 20 percent
Petroleum Industry Unhappy With Conservation Plan
Petroleum industry representatives are unhappy with a newly proposed management plan for the Pinedale region, & they want the BLM to re-do it
Local Farmers Learn About Climate Change
Western Farmers & ranchers gathered to learn more about the impacts of erratic weather patterns on agriculture during a climate change symposium
*** Carter Questions Barrasso's Energy Policy (Nick Carter Campaign)
“United States Senate Democratic Nominee Nick Carter pointed out John Barrasso's contradictions and politics as usual approach to our country's energy crisis today. "With the price of gas hovering at four dollars per gallon and working families worried about the next price sp! ike, John Barrasso offers contradictory views on drilling and no long term solution for our dependence on foreign oil." "Out of one side of his mouth, Barrasso says he supports drilling in ANWR and offshore while out of the other side of his mouth he doesn't think Wyoming oil producers can safely produce oil and gas in the Wyoming Range."Carter said. "This type of political double talk by Senator Barrasso is exactly the kind of pointless pandering that our country can no longer afford." Carter laughed out loud when he found out that Barrasso said that the "real" energy supplies were not to be found in Wyoming. "I've been watching working folks come home from the rigs in Wyoming since I was 6 years old and it sure looked like they were drilling for something 'real' to me." "The sad thing is that without a comprehensive energy policy that is dedicated to freeing us from oil dependence, it is only a matter of time before Senator Barrasso is clamoring to drill in the Wyoming Range because gas is six or seven dollars per gallon. Remember, John McCain and George Bush Sr. were opposed to offshore drilling until recently. The only way to preserve our environment and our economy is to make tough decisions on a nationwide energy policy. Anything else is just political doublespeak." "Remember, Senator Barrasso voted against Wind Energy in Wyoming while taking a half a million dollars from big oil. He neither wants energy independence nor protection of the environment. Now he also wants any drilling jobs to go out of state. You can't trust him with the environment. You can't trust him with your job. You can believe I'll work toward a solution to our energy problem -- not just political talk." Carter will be sweeping through the state over the next week, speaking with energy companies, veteran's groups, and senior centers. Unlike Barrasso, Carter claims, he is making a genuine connection with the people of Wyoming so he can truly represent their interests in Washington.“
NFIB Endorses Barrasso (Office of Barrasso Campaign)
“The nation’s leading small business group, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), today backed U.S. Senator John Barrasso’s bid for another term in the U.S. Senate. “As a small business owner and member of NFIB himself, Senator Barrasso has a deep understanding of Wyoming’s entrepreneurs,” said Lisa Goeas, NFIB’s vice president, political. “His support of tax relief, including the elimination of the estate tax, and simplifying the tax code for small business owners has been vital to creating a climate that allows them to invest in and grow their businesses.” “I am honored to have the support of the NFIB,” Barrasso said. “I understand that small businesses are the backbone of the American economy. I remain committed to supporting and sponsoring low-tax, pro-growth policies to ensure that small businesses can continue to grow and flourish.” NFIB is the leading small business association representing small and independent businesses. NFIB's mission is to promote and protect the right of their members to own, operate and grow their businesses.”
Frontier Oil To Offer Over $200 Million in Notes (Frontier Oil Corp.)
“Frontier Oil Corporation (NYSE:FTO) announced Friday that it intends to offer, subject to market conditions and other factors, up to $200 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes due 2016 in a registered public offering. Payment of the notes will be guaranteed by all of Frontier's material domestic restricted subsidiaries. The notes offering and sale will be made under Frontier's shelf registration statement on Form S-3 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 13, 2005. The proceeds from the notes offering will be used for general corporate purposes. …”
*** New Lieap Applications Are Available -- Cheyenne (Wyoming DFS)
“The new application for a program that offers help to Wyoming residents with heating bills is now in the mail, the Wyoming Department of Family Services announced today. Those who have received benefits from the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) in the past will get the new application in the mail, and it is also available online, at DFS field offices, and will soon be found at senior centers and other locations throughout Wyoming. LIEAP (pronounced lee-ap) is a program using state and federal dollars to help low-income individuals, fixed-income families and elders cover the high costs of home heating. "New applications have been mailed to everyone who applied for LIEAP last year, even if they didn't qualify," DFS spokeswoman Juliette Rule said. "This year it's available on the DFS Web site in a large print format. We have worked to make the new application easier to read and to fill out than previous versions." To get an application or learn more about this home heating help, go to the DFS homepage, http://dfsweb.state.wy.us/, and look for the 'LIEAP for Home Heating' link. To get a paper applications mailed to you, call the LIEAP help line at 1-800-246-4221 any weekday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. You qualify for LIEAP if your monthly income is less than $1,863 for an individual, $2,508 for a household of two or $3,798 for a family of four. Applicants can rent or own their home, but they must complete an application in order to get heating assistance. "LIEAP served about 11,000 families in Wyoming last year, and this winter certainly won't be any easier for those and other families," Rule said. "We really want parents to apply, and we're hopeful adult children will help their aging parents or neighbors get that help." The promotion of this program is part of The Energy Wise Wyoming campaign which encourages state residents to conserve energy, to take steps to weatherize their homes and to take advantage of state programs designed to lower their heating bills. The campaign is produced by a coalition of state agencies including the Department of Family Services, the Wyoming Public Service Commission, the State Energy Office, the Governor's Office and the private non-profit Wyoming Energy Council.”
McCain, Palin fires up crowd in Colorado Springs 2:25 p.m.
Palin power energizes Colorado Springs
Millions for police during DNC
Women who shop Wal-Mart may be key to presidential election
House Candidates Speak In Cheyenne
“There was lots of lip-smacking and napkin-passing going on in front of the candidates for Wyoming's seat in the U.S. House on Friday (September 5th). A candidates forum was held during a barbecued rib festival in Cheyenne. All three candidates agreed on one thing: The federal government, and especially Congress, hasn't gotten its act together on big problems facing the nation right now. Republican Cynthia Lummis says Wyoming could teach Washington a thing or two about balanced budgets and good governance. Democrat Gary Trauner says he wants to be able to tell his young sons that he tried to do something about the problems in Washington. Libertarian David Herbert offers one possible solution -- writing bills that "say what they mean and mean what they say." The three are vying to replace Rep. Barbara Cubin, who's not seeking re-election.”
*** Lummis, Trauner, Herbert Square Off In Cheyenne Debate
“The three remaining candidates for Wyoming's lone US House seat squared off for the first time since the August primary in a noon time debate Friday….”Going To Washington To Help Cheyenne
“A group of Cheyenne business leaders are heading to Washington DC next week to try and get funding for a number of projects around town….”
Sep 5, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and comment
Casper Star-Tribune Uranium and wind industries short of workers “The growing uranium and wind industries in Wyoming both face constraints with finding workers, panelists at an energy economics summit said Thursday….” BLM releases final oil shale plan “Federal officials are releasing a final plan for opening nearly 2 million acres of public land in Wyoming, Utah and Colorado to commercial oil shale development….” Report: State loses millions due to tobacco use “Tobacco use costs Wyoming hundreds of millions of dollars each year in lost productivity and health care, according to a report released by the state on Thursday….” *** Freudenthal: Complete uranium study “Wyoming Gov. Dave Freudenthal is urging the Nuclear Regulatory Commission not to delay the completion of an environmental study on uranium mining….” WHP seizes $10 ...continue reading -
09/03-04/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Sep 5, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune LTE: Global ambitions replace diplomacy by TOM BISHOP, Atlantic City Anti-Lummis “Now that Cynthia Lummis has been properly chastised for her could-have-been-expected blunder, perhaps we could get both Lummis and her opponent, Gary Trauner, to engage in meaningful comments. How about answering some relevant questions? Do Lummis and Trauner support the George W. Bush doctrine of global democratization? Bush doctrine: " we have begun a world democratic revolution that will continue until all the despotisms of the Middle East are overthrown and replaced by democracies." (Quotation taken from the book, "Where the Right Went Wrong," by Patrick J. Buchanan.) Preemptive warfare: Bush doctrine: "No nation will be permitted, ever again, to rise to a position of power to where it can challenge the United States, global or regionally." Or do she and Trauner support the admonitions of George ...continue reading -
61 Days Until Election Day 2008
Sep 2, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentDo you know where your candidates are and what help and support they need in these final weeks? Click here to check out their websites and get in touch! MEET & SUPPORT WYOMING STATE LEGISLATIVE CANDIDATES ...continue reading -
09/02/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Sep 2, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentWyoming Business Report *** Congressional candidates to appear at Cheyenne forum PLEASE ATTEND THIS EVENT TO SUPPORT TRAUNER! He’ll appreciate friendly faces in the crowd! “The three candidates running for Wyoming’s lone congressional seat will appear in Cheyenne on Sept. 5 in the fourth of a series of congressional forums sponsored by Chambers of Commerce across the state. W. David Herbert (L-WY), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Gary Trauner (D-WY) have all indicated that they will attend the forum, which will be held in a tent in Cheyenne’s Depot Plaza from 11:30 am until 1 p.m. The forum panelists will include Dennis E. Curran, executive editor of the Wyoming Business Report, Mick Birge of the Cowboy State News Network/ KFBC Radio, and D. Reed Eckhardt of the Wyoming Tribune Eagle. The moderator will be Rick Schum, board chairman of the Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The forum is being held in ...continue reading -
Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup for 08/28-31/08 & 09/01/08
Sep 1, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune *** FORUM: American energy for the American people by Gary Trauner “There has been a lot of posturing recently about the best way to secure America's energy future and, by extension, the strength of America's economy and leadership position in the world. Since the day I started running for Wyoming's lone seat in the U.S. House, I have been saying that the search for sustainable energy independence is the issue of our time. It affects our national security, our economy, our environment and the legacy we leave to future generations….” LTE: Outsiders see state with fresher eyes by MARY LOU MARCUM, Cheyenne Pro-Trauner “I am 71 years old and have spent many of those years in Cheyenne and consider this my home.…Many of us are here to absorb, to appreciate, to recognize, to celebrate Wyoming, to stand in awe of its vastness and emptiness, to respect its toughness and ...continue reading -
08/26-27/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Sep 1, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentHoly Torrential Trauner!!! Check out the press for the last TWO days… *** Trauner Releases Statement on Energy MUST READ--Proposal has three key elements: Short-term, long-term and immediate action. (Office of Trauner Campaign) -- Since the day I started running for Wyoming's lone seat in the US House, I have been saying that the search for sustainable energy independence is the issue of our time. It affects our national security, our economy, our environment and the legacy we leave to future generations. But over the past four months, as I have continued to campaign door to door, community to community, I have heard countless stories of the incredible burden that out of control gas prices have put on Wyoming's families, businesses, and particularly, seniors on fixed incomes. As I attended forum after forum during the primary season, most of my opponents embraced the simple slogan of "Drill Here, Drill Now." That's ...continue reading -
8/24-25/2008 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Sep 1, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCSPAN will be covering the Convention LIVE from “Gavel to Gavel” C-SPAN offers gavel to gavel coverage of the U.S. House of Representatives. C-SPAN also offers a variety of public affairs programming including congressional hearings, press briefings from the White House, State Department and Pentagon, campaign and election coverage, and international programming. Roll Call Udall Urges Democrats to Stick to Center With the Democratic National Convention having kicked off in earnest Monday afternoon, Rep. Mark Udall (D-Colo.) cautioned that the four-day Denver event could cause problems for Democrats running in the Mountain West region if the messaging veers too far left of center. Udall, who is running for Senate, lumped himself in that category during an interview last week and said that presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) might also suffer ...continue reading -
Trauner Press Conference: American Energy for the American People
Sep 1, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentGary Trauner, candidate for U.S. House of Representatives, will hold a press conference tomorrow to unveil and discuss his energy proposal and you are invited! It is an innovative new policy proposal….and you can be the first to hear the details. American Energy for the American People Tuesday, August 26th 9:30 AM at the Ghost Town gas station at 6680 W. Yellowstone Highway in Casper and 3:00 PM at the Trauner HQ at 211 W. 18th Street in Cheyenne For further information contact Adam Ruff at 307.699.4956 or adam@traunerforcongress.com ...continue reading -
08/23/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Sep 1, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and comment***Just in case you missed it, you can read Obama’s Prepared Text Sheridan Press *** Fulfilling Democratic duties: Sheridan resident a superdelegate at convention “Sheridan resident and Wyoming Democratic Party Vice Chair Nancy Drummond leaves today for Denver to fulfill her duties as a superdelegate to the Democratic National Convention, which starts Monday…Drummond’s husband, Bruce, is Sheridan County committeeman for the Democratic Party and will accompany her to the convention. Sheridan County Democratic Chairwoman Janet Maxwell will also go with Drummond to Denver. Drummond is in her sixth year as Wyoming Democratic Party Vice Chair — her third term — and said this will be her last term. ‘When I first got involved, people didn’t whine as much, and that whining really starts to wear on you,” Drummond said.’” Casper ...continue reading -
08/21-22/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Sep 1, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentPolitico Lummis wins GOP primary in Wyoming “…Lummis heads into the general election against Democratic businessman Gary Trauner as the favorite to succeed retiring Rep. Barbara Cubin (R-Wyo.). But Democrats believe they have an outside chance at winning in this heavily Republican state, though without the controversial Cubin on the ballot, it will be a tough challenge.” The Hill State treasurer wins GOP nod in Wyoming “…Lummis defeated rancher and businessman Mark Gordon 46-37, while 2006 candidate and former Navy officer Bill Winney took 12 percent. She will now face 2006 Democratic nominee Gary Trauner, who fell to retiring Rep. Barbara Cubin (R-Wyo.) by 1,000 votes and was set to face her again before she retired.” Roll Call Lummis Declared Winner in Wyoming Primary “It might be a perilous environment for ...continue reading -
2008 Democratic Convention Speech Archive
Sep 1, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentMonday, August 25: One Nation Click here to read the text of speeches delivered on Monday Tuesday, August 26: Renewing America's Promise Click here to read the text of speeches delivered on Tuesday Wednesday, August 27: Securing America's Future Click here to read the text of speeches delivered on Wednesday Thursday, August 28: Change You Can Believe In Click here to read the text of speeches delivered on Thursday ...continue reading -
Democratic National Convention, Day Two
Where to begin in summarizing Tuesday's Democratic National Convention experience for your Wyoming delegation? How about at the very end, with Sen. Hillary Clinton's amazing speech to top off the night? Sen. Clinton is a fabulous orator on a normal day, but I've never seen her in this rare of form. She laid it on the line, in no uncertain terms: If you supported Clinton's candidacy and what it stood for - be that its historical ramifications or its policy significance - if you care about the things that Hillary was fighting for, then you must vote for Barack Obama this November. Our nation will be much better off in every imaginable way under an Obama Administration than it would with McCain as president. Arbitrary note: The "Hillary" signs that were passed around the convention hall were, in this blogger's opinion, the coolest signs we have seen so far in the convention. Check out this photo . It's a little hard to see the Hillary signs in all their ...continue reading -
Democratic National Convention, Day One
Aug 26, 2008 Posted by Bill Luckett Login and commentActually, I'm writing this at the beginning of Day Two. As a special bonus part of the whirlwind of activity known as the Democratic National Convention, your tireless executive director has the dubious honor of being the designated Credentials Collection Agent for the Wyoming Democratic Party. This means I have to be in our hotel lobby between 4:45 a.m. and 5:15 a.m. every day to meet the nice folks from the DNC who deliver the credentials for our state delegation for that day. To their credit, both mornings the DNC folks have been here at 4:45 a.m. sharp, which leaves me with some down time I can use to appreciate the value of a full night's sleep - as a concept, but certainly not as a reality. Truth is, it's hard to go to sleep at bedtime when you've just spent six hours at the Pepsi Center for the first National Convention of your life. My personal highlight of the night was when Ted Kennedy took the stage in an unscheduled appearance. I mean, he wasn't on the evening's agenda, ...continue reading -
08/20/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 20, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentFor Compete State and Federal Primary Election Results: http://soswy.state.wy.us/Elections/ElectionResults.aspx Casper Star-Tribune Lummis wins GOP primary “Former State Treasurer Cynthia Lummis won Tuesday's Republican primary for Wyoming's lone seat in the U.S. House. Unofficial results show Lummis defeating Johnson County businessman and rancher Mark Gordon 46 to 38 percent, with 99 percent of precincts reporting…A recent ad by the Gordon campaign depicted Lummis as a little girl digging herself into a hole in a sandbox, implying Lummis would support policies that would worsen the nation's problems. An ad by the Lummis campaign depicted Gordon's head pasted on a cartoonish body and mentioned Gordon's past contributions to Democratic candidates, including John Kerry. Both candidates criticized the opposition for distorting the facts. Campaign finance figures through July 30 ...continue reading -
08/19/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 19, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune EDITORIAL: Primary voter turnout: Wyo can do better “…Two years ago, the lack of contested Democratic races was singled out as the main reason for the lack of voter interest in the primary. The same complaint could be registered this year. Gary Trauner is unopposed for the party's U.S. House nomination, and the two Democratic contests to oppose Republican U.S. Sens. Mike Enzi and John Barrasso haven't generated much excitement. Some Wyoming Democrats may be tempted to switch parties, so they can help the GOP choose Trauner's opponent. It's difficult to determine how such a move might affect the Republican primary, because there's no general consensus about who would be a tougher foe for Trauner in the general election. Because of the interest in the GOP's four-way U.S. House race and the hard-fought campaign between front-runners Mark Gordon and Cynthia Lummis, independents who wish to ...continue reading -
08/16-18/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 19, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune Wyoming briefs “Plans for ethanol plant stall….” Farmers feel impact of increasing costs POWELL (AP) -- Wyoming farmers are receiving higher prices for their products this year, but it also cost them more to produce them. Governor to ask for backup howitzer for Sylvan Pass “Gov. Dave Freudenthal said he will ask the Legislature for money to buy a backup howitzer to use for avalanche control on Sylvan Pass.” Candidates differ on government involvement in economy “To help the economy, the government should develop a comprehensive energy policy, increase regulations for the mortgage industry and get its spending under control, said Nick Carter, Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate.” COLUMN: Change and the elections “…Between February and August, the total number of registered ...continue reading -
PRESS ENDORSEMENTS UPDATE for 08/15/08
Aug 19, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune EDITORIAL: Dems should choose Rothfuss University of Wyoming instructor Chris Rothfuss may be a political newcomer, but he's our clear choice to win his first election. His opponent is Torrington house and sign painter Al Hamburg, a perennial candidate whose presence on the ballot is difficult to take seriously, even though his main issue, what he calls "the stupid, wasteful war in Iraq," is a vital one. But Rothfuss also wants to safely withdraw our troops. Rothfuss, who has a doctorate in chemical engineering, brings a lot to the table. He says he wants to bring a scientist's perspective to the energy issue. He has called for a balanced, long-term energy policy that includes coal, oil, natural gas, wind, solar, geothermal and nuclear power. Rothfuss wants to double the domestic coal production -- which would obviously benefit Wyoming -- and liquefy that additional amount, to reduce our dependence on ...continue reading -
08/15/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 19, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentUSA Today Military donations favor Obama “U.S. soldiers have donated more presidential campaign money to Democrat Barack Obama than to Republican John McCain, a reversal of previous campaigns in which military donations tended to favor GOP White House hopefuls, a nonpartisan group reported Thursday. Troops serving abroad have given nearly six times as much money to Obama's presidential campaign as they have to McCain's, the Center for Responsive Politics said. The results also are striking because they favored Obama, who never has served in the military. McCain meanwhile, is a decorated war veteran who spent nearly five years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. The Arizona senator graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and had a 22-year career as a naval aviator Obama has opposed the war in Iraq and says he would withdraw combat troops within 16 months. McCain has been a steadfast supporter of the war, saying he would withdraw the troops ...continue reading -
08/14/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 14, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune Wyo drivers drive less, highway tax revenue holds steady “Many Wyoming drivers are heading in the same direction as those elsewhere in the nation by not going anywhere….” BLM sets grouse protection zone “The greater sage grouse will receive special protection from oil and gas development on about a million acres in the Powder River Basin under an interim management plan announced Wednesday by the Bureau of Land Management….” Injecting new life into old wells “In a sandy meadow just south of Riverton, Devon Energy Corp. is finishing construction on a $100 million carbon dioxide pipeline and injection facility, which company officials say will revive an aging oil field and help the environment at the same time….” Forest Service mulls roadless ruling “The U.S. Forest Service said Wednesday ...continue reading -
08/13/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 14, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune Candidates focus on alternative energy “Alternative sources of energy and conservation efforts will play a large role in reducing fuel prices and fixing the current energy crisis, two Democratic candidates for the U.S. Senate said in separate interviews. One of candidate Nick Carter's major campaign issues is creating a comprehensive energy plan that would set a goal of becoming independent from the Middle East for energy in 15 to 20 years….Goodenough's solutions include not using military force as a first option, working toward a balanced budget and reducing the demand for oil in the United States. Neither of the candidates see drilling in the Wyoming Range, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska, or other "pristine places" as a viable option in the near future…. ” *** Estimates of heating costs this coming winter “The Wyoming Public Service Commission says natural gas ...continue reading -
08/12/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 14, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentObama supporters to get VP announcement via text Be the first to know! Sign up to receive an e-mail or a text message the moment he announces his decision. You can text VP to 62262 to receive a text message on your mobile phone. Or go to the link above and sign up to receive an e-mail alert. Casper Star-Tribune EDITORIAL: House hopefuls: Focus on vision for Wyoming by the Star-Tribune Editorial Board “Wyoming's Republican U.S. House primary is in danger of deteriorating into a "he said, she said" debate about candidates' records. With only a week to go before the Aug. 19 election, we urge both Mark Gordon and Cynthia Lummis to refocus their efforts on how they each plan to serve Wyoming if they win their party's nomination and the general election….But we'd like to remind both candidates that it's their party's nomination they're seeking, and Republicans already have their work ...continue reading -
08/11/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 12, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune Sweetwater commissioner dies Sweetwater County Commissioner Joe Oldfield died Thursday after a sudden illness. County spokesman Garry McLean said Oldfield died at 2:30 p.m. McLean said at this time they did not know the cause of death other than noting the sudden illness. Oldfield served as a commissioner for five years and seven months. The county commission has three members. Columnist A popular job -- in most counties One of the three Democratic candidates is Dale Groutage of Lander. Groutage, you may recall, was a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in 2006, but lost the general election to the late Republican U.S. Sen. Craig Thomas. The other Democratic candidates are Daniel Cardenas of St. Stephens and Ernie Over of Pavilion. Over is a former newspaper editor and broadcaster. Gordon, Lummis probe past records Republican U.S. ...continue reading -
08/08/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 12, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and comment***ACTION ALERT*** It is August Break, so US Senators Enzi and Barrasso will be all over the news. Our candidates need to be all over the streets knocking doors to combat the excessive press. I would urge you to volunteer to walk with your candidates every day. Never let them knock doors alone. Cultivate and assign volunteers to go with our candidates EVERY day. Consistent support, moral and otherwise, on the campaign trail will equal victory in November! For August 8, 2008 Casper Star-Tribune Enzi stresses energy, health care in Casper visit “Energy, health care and education are the three areas U.S. Sen. Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., would concentrate on if elected to another term in November.” *** Wyoming is growing younger And young people are our voters! ...continue reading -
The passing of our dear friend Joe Oldfield
Aug 12, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentWe begin this day with very sad news about the untimely death of our dear friend Joe Oldfield, Sweetwater County Commissioner. As you know, Joe had a zest for life following the “work hard, play hard” adage. He was an avid skier, an educator who served with distinction and his passion public service improved the lives of everyone he touched. He prepared young people to meet the world’s challenges, he made certain that the aged live comfortable and secure lives, and he addressed all the challenges life laid before him and his family with grace and grit. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and the citizens of Sweetwater County. Details about Joe’s funeral will be forthcoming and I will keep you informed. ...continue reading -
08/07/2008 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 12, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentWyoFile.com 'Purple' States Get VIP Seats At DNC 30,000 seats at Obama's acceptance speech at the DNC are for Coloradans, and 30,000 are open to other critical battleground state residents. E -mail: commcredentials@demconvention.com or call: (720) 362-2500 to apply for tickets. Casper Star-Tribune Newcomer challenges incumbent on property taxes “Political newcomer Al Snell is challenging longtime state senator John Schiffer in the Republican primary for District 22 on the issue of rising property taxes. Snell favors a property value assessment system based on the most recent purchase price. Schiffer calls that the "California" system of assessing property values, and maintains that he and other legislators have provided relief for elder and lower-income homeowners in recent years. The relief includes a ...continue reading -
08/06/2008 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 12, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentI am still trying to identify people to sign Letters-to-the-Editor as we enter the general election. Two people have responded thus far, but we need many more from every county to step forward. Can I count on your help to volunteer or identify volunteers? The news is filled with coverage on Monday’s Primary Debate, Wyoming schools’ poor showing on the No Child Left Behind test, conservation, health and energy issues. As you read these articles and go through your day think about the top issues on people’s minds: · job and financial security now through retirement, · access to affordable health care, · a sound education for our children, and · ...continue reading -
WDP was given NO (ZERO) Tickets to this event.
Aug 7, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentTo apply for tickets: Call: (720) 362-2500 or E-mail: commcredentials@demconvention.com and write WYOMING in Subject line. L eave the following information: Name Telephone number (including area code) E-mail address State where you reside How you plan to get to Denver If and where you plan to stay during the Convention http://www.demconvention.com/invesco ...continue reading -
08/05/2008 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 5, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune Feds set wind farm public meetings The Bureau of Land Management's Rawlins field office has scheduled four public meetings as part of its analysis of the proposed Chokecherry and Sierra Madre wind energy project in Carbon County. Group agrees on combo enrollment process A group of Natrona County teachers, principals and administrative staff members will recommend a combination of centralized and decentralized enrollment processes for the district. City may approve program for transportation improvements The city council may approve a Transportation Improvement Program for 2009 through 2012 in its meeting tonight. The program outlines future projects for roads, highways, public transportation and pedestrian traffic. Many of the projects will be funded through local governments, as well as money from the Federal Highway Administration and Federal ...continue reading -
08/04/2008 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Letters to the Editor supporting Republican candidates have been surfacing all across the state. We need to be prepared to support our candidates in the news and other creative ways as well once the Democratic Primaries are complete. ACTION ITEM: I am looking for volunteers, so please get in touch if you are ready and willing to author a LTE in the very near future! Don’t forget to watch the Debates TONIGHT! Wyoming Public Television, Wyoming Public Radio and the Wyoming Business Report are cosponsoring the three consecutive debates scheduled to begin Monday evening, August 4, at 7:00 p.m. in the Little Theater on the campus of Central Wyoming Community College in Riverton. The debates will be broadcast live on Wyoming Public Television and Wyoming Public Radio and will be streamed on the Internet via www.WyomingPublicRadio.net . ACTION ITEM: Be alert for ...continue reading -
08/02-03/2008 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 3, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentLetters to the Editor supporting Republican candidates have been surfacing all across the state. We need to be prepared to support our candidates in the news and other creative ways as well once the Democratic Primaries are complete. ACTION ITEM: I am looking for volunteers, so please get in touch if you are ready and willing to author a LTE in the very near future! Don’t forget to watch the Primary Debates MONDAY, August 4th at 7 pm Wyoming Public Television, Wyoming Public Radio and the Wyoming Business Report are cosponsoring the three consecutive debates scheduled to begin Monday evening, August 4, at 7:00 p.m. in the Little Theater on the campus of Central Wyoming Community College in Riverton. The debates will be broadcast live on Wyoming Public Television and Wyoming Public Radio and will be streamed on the Internet via www.WyomingPublicRadio.net . ...continue reading -
08/01/2008 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Aug 1, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune Editorial: Divert mineral revenue to help fund highways A legislative proposal to create a new funding source for multi-lane highway construction in Wyoming should win approval. The Joint Transportation, Highways and Military Affairs Interim Committee has decided to sponsor a bill that would earmark a portion of severance tax revenue to widen and expand some of Wyoming's busiest highways. Letter to the Editor: Campaign efforts bespeak leadership “I've read a few letters in these pages recently supporting Keith Goodenough and bashing Nick Carter for supposedly not being a "real" Democrat….It is time for the people who have been writing in to get real. Let's stop worrying about who is a real Democrat or a real Republican and focus on who is a real candidate.” Mental injury bill moves forward Legislation aimed at extending coverage ...continue reading -
07/31/2008 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
Jul 31, 2008 Login and commentCasper Star-Tribune Billionaires bank on Wyo wind Wyoming's future role in wind energy became a lot less speculative this week with the announcement that The Anschutz Corp. plans to take over the TransWest Express Transmission Project. Pro Lummis LTE: Candidate shows fiscal responsibility Pro Obama (response to McCain supporter spin) LTE: Campaign hardens stubborn viewpoints Wyoming Public Radio Enzi And Barrasso Will Keep Stevens Donations WASHINGTON D-C (2008-07-30) Wyoming's two senators, John Barrasso and Mike Enzi, are holding on to campaign cash donated by indicted Republican Sen. Ted Stevens of Alaska. Stevens' political action committee has donated $6,000 to Barrasso since he was nominated to the Senate in June 2007 and $10,000 to Enzi since 2001. Both ...continue reading -
07/30/2008 Wyoming Democratic Party News Roundup
Jul 30, 2008 Login and commentI f there is anything interesting, controversial or relevant happening that the media is not reporting on, please drop me a note ASAP. Thank you! For July 30, 2008 Casper Star-Tribune Electrical utility seeks rate hike CHEYENNE -- The state's largest electrical utility is asking for permission to boost its rates by about 7 percent, an increase company officials say is needed to cover the cost of Wyoming's growing demand for power. Council chooses new members A former state legislator and a Casper Star-Tribune community news assistant will be the two new members of the Casper City Council. Government announces quarterly borrowing WASHINGTON -- The Bush administration gave details Wednesday on how it plans to borrow the billions of dollars it will need to cope with the soaring budget deficits. Those ...continue reading -
07/29/2008 Wyoming Democratic Party News Roundup
Jul 29, 2008 Posted by Bill Luckett Login and commentFor Tuesday, July 29, 2008 Casper Star-Tribune Two Dems vie to challenge GOP incumbent LARAMIE -- Two candidates who are longtime residents of rural Albany County, and who have been unsuccessful in previous runs for public office, are vying in the Aug. 19 primary election for the Democratic nomination to represent south Laramie and south and west Albany County in the state House. Council considers candidates to fill seats A radio announcer, Presbyterian pastor and a former state legislator are among seven Casperites vying to fill two vacated Casper City Council positions. Editorial : State does right with safety net for vets The Legislature and the governor deserve credit for the effort. As Sen. Mike Massie, D-Laramie, put it: "It didn't make sense to me that the wealthiest state in the country could not jump in ...continue reading -
Daily news roundup, March 24, 2008
Back in the saddle again! And big news while I was gone: Chris Rothfuss, who has a doctorate in chemical engineering, announced his intention to run for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Mike Enzi: UW instructor launches Senate campaign against Enzi NOTE: Chris is an “instructor,” but not a “professor,” at UW. This distinction probably doesn’t mean much to most of us, but it’s important to those in the academic world. This will all be moot in eight months, when the appropriate term will become “Senator-elect.” America's chief health educator will make his first appearance in Wyoming this week, in Riverton, said first lady Nancy Freudenthal: Acting Surgeon General Steven Galson plans Wyoming visit Wyoming's justice system is gradually becoming more accessible online. In February, the Wyoming Supreme Court began offering its case schedule to the public on its Web site, said Judy Pacheco, clerk of the ...continue reading -
Daily news roundup, March 18, 2008
Spring calls, and I listen. As such, I’m taking a road trip over the next five days with my lovely wife to see where the birds go for the winter and to see where the defending National League champion Colorado Rockies go for spring training. Sadly, this means that there will be no more news roundups until next Monday. In the meantime, here’s what’s cookin’ for today. Starting with John “100 years war” McCain, whose um, “interesting” election strategy is to continue down the Bush Administration’s path of one of this nation’s worst foreign policy debacles (justified by 935 false statements ). Lame-duck Rep. Barbara Cubin hits the campaign trail, begging Republicans to support the GOP nominee-apparent, according to this Associated Press piece: Cubin urges Republicans to support McCain I can’t remember if I had this one in yesterday’s news roundup or not. As Gov. Freudenthal puts it, “Be it my old libertarian or populist bones, I ...continue reading -
Daily news roundup, March 17, 2008
Mar 17, 2008 Posted by Bill Luckett Login and commentThe Gillette News-Record leads off the news roundup today with this excellent piece on a wounded Marine’s struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder as he tries to return to a “normal” life in Gillette: Slipping through the cracks The Casper Star-Tribune is examining our state’s workers’ compensation system in a series of stories this week. Here are a few: Do injured workers get enough? What’s a leg worth? ‘They turn their backs on us’ (a worker’s story) Nowhere to turn A smack in the head with a pair of tongs compressed rig worker Richard Johnson's spine. ‘I’m blackballed’ (a worker’s story) ‘They starve you out’ (a worker’s story) Workers’ comp fraud difficult to measure Evolution of workers’ compensation in Wyoming (timeline) In other news, Wyoming Conservation Voters Director Jason Marsden writes on ...continue reading -
Daily news roundup, March 14, 2008
Mar 17, 2008 Posted by Bill Luckett Login and commentNot too terribly much in the news today. Maybe all the papers are saving their really good stuff for the weekend. Or maybe it’s been a slow news week, after all the excitement of LAST week. The U.S. Senate has passed an amendment that would encourage – but NOT require – Congress to preserve states' share of oil and gas royalties: Senate passes amendment to ENCOURAGE preserving Wyo’s share of royalties Gov. Dave Freudenthal said construction could start as soon as this summer on a coal research plant the University of Wyoming is developing with General Electric: Gov: Coal pla
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