Pat Schmidt inducted into WPA Hall of Fame

Pat Schmidt, longtime owner, editor and publisher of the Thermopolis Independent Record, was inducted into the Wyoming Press Association Hall of Fame during the association's annual convention in Casper over the weekend.

Schmidt worked at several Wyoming newspapers as a reporter, editor and publisher, running publications that earned recognition for their high-quality reporting and commitment to excellence.

He served as editor and publisher of the Lovell Chronicle from 1975-84. In 1978, Schmidt purchased the IR with Robert and Roy Peck, Dave Bonner, Ron Lytle and then editor and publishers Gretchen Berning and Steve Schenk. Schmidt became the editor and publisher of the IR in July of 1984.

Schmidt retired and sold the IR in January of 2010.

During Schmidt's years in Wyoming newspapers, the past WPA president collected numerous awards and launched the careers of a number of Wyoming newsmen and newswomen.

One of the things presenter and WPA Hall of Fame member Jim Hicks said about Schmidt as he was introducing him was how well respected Schmidt was, even when someone disagreed with him.

In Schmidt's acceptance speech, his modest side prevailed. He thanked a long list of people including family members, professors, business partners, journalists, co-workers, friends and more.

Joining him during his induction were is wife Emily, sons Joe and Jake, daughter Gretchen, their spouses and children. All three of Schmidt's children graduated from Hot Springs County High School.

Although Schmidt has moved away from Thermopolis, he is fondly thought of by a number of associates and friends as a vital member of the Thermopolis community.

Toddi Darlington, former Executive Director of the Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce said Schmidt became one of her best friends over the many years she worked with him.

"I worked with Pat all the years that I was director of the Chamber of Commerce and continued to work with him until he moved out of town.

"Pat taught me how to write press releases and how to use better grammar. He schooled me on what to say when meeting government officials, how to properly introduce them in public and at meetings, and how to strong arm them just a bit, to get my way," said Darlington.

She added that the most important thing she learned and is still learning from Schmidt is to have a passion for what she is interested in.

"Pat loves Thermopolis and all the people in the county. All you have to do is look at him to know this is true," said Darlington.

Schmidt helped start the 3-on-3 basketball tournament and gave hours and newspaper editorial space to help it grow. He helped create the Greater Learning Foundation in 1990.

When the idea formed for building a Discovery Center, Schmidt spent time helping the committee to do research and helped determine public interest and support.

"Pat still emails me to this day if he hears things going on in the state that can benefit us," said Darlington.

"Pat has a great sense of humor and I love his storytelling. I was gullible so he has set me up for many a joke. His stories make me laugh and most have a moral to the story," added Darlington.

Rex Blakey worked for Schmidt at the IR years ago. "He encouraged me to write my column, Buffalo Creek Journal, that I wrote for three years," said Blakey.

Schmidt is well liked by the community and his former employees added Blakey.

He said that while Schmidt was at the IR he worked to do all he could to see the community progress.

"Pat really cares about this community," said Blakey

The ever humble and encouraging Schmidt wrapped up his acceptance speech at the WPA convention by telling all in attendance "Thank you everyone for this great honor and for all you are continuing to do to keep Wyoming newspapers great."

Thermopolis owes Schmidt a thank you for all he has done to make our community great.