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By MATT JOYCE Associated Press Writer CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) A group of Wyoming politicos and journalists is launching a nonprofit online news publication dedicated to covering state government.

The Cowboy State Free Press started publishing stories on the Web a few weeks ago and plans to ramp up its operation by the beginning of the legislative session in February.

State Rep. Sue Wallis, a Republican from Recluse, is executive director and president of the board. The bureau chief is Phil Noble, a former broadcaster and campaign director for Democratic Gov. Dave Freudenthal.

The publication says its mission is to "to seek the facts and report them." On the Net, http://cowboystatefreepress.org/ (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-13-09 1759CST | save this article / add to your favorites list