Wyoming Rural Electric News August 2022

WYOMING RURAL ELECTRIC NEWSAU G 2022 BRANDINGSEASON: HELPINGNEIGHBORSTHE 14 MULE DUEL 22 THE TRAIL RIDE 38

Tri-State is a not-for-profit power supplier to cooperatives and public power districts in Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming. IS AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) RIGHT FOR YOU? As EVs become more accessible, you may be considering adding an electric vehicle to save money on fuel and maintenance while reducing emissions. To save even more, check for federal and state incentives and ask your local electric utility when it’s cheapest to charge. + IS YOUR DAILY COMMUTE UNDER 330 MILES? Most of today’s electric vehicles have a driving range-per-charge between 50 to 330 miles. If your daily commute is under 250 miles per day, there is likely an EV model that will fit your needs. + DOES YOUR HOUSEHOLD HAVE MORE THAN ONE CAR? If you live in a household with more than one car, an EV likely represents a big opportunity for your family to use an EV for commuting. Use your current gas-powered vehicle when it is not convenient to use an EV. + DO YOU HAVE OFF-STREET PARKING AT YOUR HOME? All plug-in electric vehicles require charging. Charging can be done with a standard 120V outlet or you can have a 240V charger installed in your garage or driveway. VISIT US AT www.tristate.coop/BE ELECTRIFY AND SAVE

STATE NEWS & EVENTS THE COWBOYCURRENTSTATE BUZZ GRASSROOTS NETWORK WHAT'S HAPPENING341012 ESSAYS ANECDOTES& WREA NOTES THE COUNTRYFAMILYCOOPERATIVE…ANDMUSIC BY SHAWN TAYLOR HOME ON THE RANGE MULE DUEL BY DR. BRUCE CONNALLY ENLIGHTEN US THE TRAIL RIDE BY JACKIE DOROTHY 0438 JUST FOR FUN KIDS’ CORNER HOW TO THRIVE WITH FIRE ( IF YOU’RE A PLANT ) BOOK GIVEAWAY LOST MINES & BURIED TREASURES OF OLD WYOMING BY W.C. JAMESON PUZZLE GUILTY ASSOCIATIONBY BY KENDRA SPANJER 202425 323029 FROM READERSOUR COUNTRY COOKS CORN PEN TO PAPER BRANDING TIME JUST PICTURE IT BRANDING ON THE COVER 14 CENTERPIECE AUGUST 2022 20 29 22 08 07 22 FEATURES CO-OP YOUTH SKYLARASSOCIATION’SELECTRICNIOBRARAEDMUND CO-OP SPOTLIGHT JUST DOING MY JOB A HEALWAYSCOWBOYREMARKABLEWHOWASWHERENEEDEDTOBE BY NEVA BODIN 0626Branding Season: Helping the Neighbors STORY BY ALISON QUINN COVER PHOTO BY SARAH HAGEMAN Cover photo: A rider brings in a calf to be branded during the May branding at Hageman Ranch near Jay Em.

THECOUNTRYFAMILYCOOPERATIVE…ANDMUSIC SHAWN TAYLOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

WREA NOTES

Now, in full disclosure, we did stay the night in Lander because we wanted to eat at Cowfish, which is one of our favorite restaurants. The following day we headed to Greybull because my very first board president, Tom Delaney from Big Horn REA, was having his 80th birthday party. A couple of weeks prior to that I took Erin, my three kids and the grandmas to Saratoga for Carbon Power & Light’s annual meeting. Because of life, work and family, my wife and kids (and the grandmas) haven’t been able to travel with me very often to these types of events, but they’ve always known how special the co-op family is to me. Over these past weeks they have been able to witness the special bond the co-op family has. Whether it was in Saratoga, Riverton, Greybull, Shell or Buffalo, the co-op folks were always so welcoming to me and my family. I know this is the same for every small rural community throughout Wyoming and I wish my family could experience this hospitality the way I have over the years, but for purposes of this month’s column, these are the people and places that we experienced, and I just want to thank you all for your kindness. Now for the country music part. During Cheyenne Frontier Days last month Erin and I, along with a few thousand friends, went to the Ian Munsick concert. Ian was the opening act for someone else, Parker something, but it didn’t really matter who Parker was, because Ian, from Dayton, Wyoming, killed it! I might be a little biased because he’s a Wyoming boy but damn, he was proud to be from the Cowboy State and you could see it and hear it in his stage presence, and I so appreciated the fact that he loved being from Wyoming and that he was performing at the Daddy of ‘em All. Made me think of the co-op family all over again. So here’s to the family and country music!

I’m pretty sure I’ve written about how great it is to be part of the cooperative family in the past, so I beg your forgiveness while I do it again, but with a little country music twist this time. My wife and I recently had a great trip that reminded me of how lucky I am to work with and work for the people I do – you all.

Erin, my wife, and I celebrated our 20th anniversary of marriage on July 5. Being the romantic that I am I brought her to High Plains Power Cooperative’s annual meeting in Riverton the week of our anniversary.

THE WREN MAGAZINE WYOMING RURAL ELECTRIC NEWS The official publication of the Wyoming Rural Electric Association The WREN Magazine, Wyoming Rural Electric News, volume 68, number 7, August 2022 (ISSN 1098-2876) is published monthly except for January for $12 per year by Linden Press, Inc., Periodicals postage paid at Cheyenne, WY (original entry office) and at additional mailing offices. WREN Magazine is owned and controlled by rural electric cooperatives in the interest of the economic progress of rural areas specifically and the entire population of Wyoming and the nation generally. WREN Magazine has a total average monthly paid circulation of 40,437 for 11 months ending September 2020. WREN Magazine is delivered to rural electric member/ consumers and other subscribers throughout the entire state of Wyoming and the nation. Acceptance of advertising by WREN Magazine does not imply endorsement of the product or services advertised by the publisher or Wyoming electric cooperatives. WREN STAFF Publisher: Linden Press, Inc. — Editorial Team — Maggie York Alison Quinn — Design Team — Dixie Lira David ShawnaMerkleyPhillips BOARD OF DIRECTORS High West Energy, Pine Bluffs –Michael Lerwick, President Big Horn REC, Basin –John Joyce, Vice President Wheatland REA, Wheatland –Sandra Hranchak, Secretary/Treasurer Basin Electric, Bismarck, ND – Paul Baker Bridger Valley Electric, Mountain View Ruth Rees Carbon Power, Saratoga – Kenny Curry Garland Light & Power, Powell – Scott Smith High Plains Power, Riverton – Brett Gardner Lower Valley Energy, Afton – Fred Brog Niobrara Electric, Lusk – J.D. Wasserburg Powder River Energy, Sundance – Mike Lohse Wyrulec Company, Torrington – Dewey Hageman Deseret Power, South Jordan, UT – Gary Nix Tri-State G&T, Westminster, CO – Julie Kilty SUBSCRIPTION RATES $12 per year, Single copies $1.50 each ADVERTISING To purchase, contact Dhara Rose: [307] 996-6552 • dhara@golinden.com OFFICE OF WREN OWNER 2312 Carey Ave., Cheyenne, WY 82001 SEND ADDRESS CHANGES AND CORRESPONDENCE TO PUBLISHER AT WREN Magazine • 214 West Lincolnway, Suite 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001, [307] wren@wyomingrea.org286-8140 POSTMASTER — Send address changes to — The WREN Magazine, Wyoming Rural Electric News, c/o Linden Press, Inc., 121 E. Mountain Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524, [970] 221-3232. Include 3-digit co-op code. MAGAZINE PRINTED WITH VEGETABLE INK MEET THIS MONTH’S FEATURED HALL-OF-FAMER PHOTO COURTESY OF JONITA SOMMERS 26 Bob getting ready to rope a calf to doctor while trailing cattle to the mountains.

SE: I chose Human Resource Management as my major as a result of my lifelong desire to help people. This career will allow me to protect people in my future workplace. In my spare time, I usually find myself outdoors searching for the perfect hiking trail or kicking back to cast out a line at a nearby lake. Naturally, my hobbies have drawn me to the beautiful state of Wyoming, and its University.

YOUTHCO-OP

SE: My future plans are to attend the University of Wyoming for the next four years in pursuit of a degree in human resource management. I would like to find a job in a rural area similar to the one I have grown up in, where I can truly make a difference, as in terms of HR, rural areas are often underserved. Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives are proud to support our youth, giving college scholarships and lineman scholarships.

SE: I have grown up in one of the smallest towns in Nebraska. My community is tiny and extremely tight knit. Growing up in a place such as this, you realize the importance of building strong relationships with those around you, which played a role in my choice of major. My family has supported me in every endeavor I have chosen to pursue. Their unfaltering belief in me has made them my biggest cheerleaders throughout my life, and as a result I have the confidence and resolution to pursue my dreams.

BROTT;LACEYBYPHOTO MERKLEYDAVIDBYILLUSTRATION Niobrara Electric Association nominated Skylar Edmund, who was awarded a scholarship in 2022.

Besides recognizing youth leadership in Wyoming, our purpose for Youth Tour is to educate young people about our nation’s history and electric cooperatives. In addition, one of the students selected for the Youth Tour will also be eligible to represent Wyoming as a member of the NRECA Youth Leadership Council (YLC).

WREN: Tell us a little about your studies and interests.

WREN: How have your hometown, family and/or friends influenced you?

CO-OP YOUTH

SKYLAR EDMUND HOMETOWN: Harrison, Nebraska HIGH SCHOOL: Sioux County High School YEAR OF GRADUATION: 2022 COLLEGE: University of Wyoming MAJOR STUDY INTEREST: Human Resource Management

WREN: What are your plans for the future?

Virtually

AU G 2022 7 THE CURRENT

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RAISED $ 3,147,835 GIFTS9,223 OVERALL RESULTS 5,611 DONORS 256 SUPPORTEDORGANIZATIONS WyoGives Raises Over $3 Million in 3rd Annual Campaign WYOGIVES RAISED A TOTAL OF $3,147,835 FOR 256 NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS IN A 24-HOUR PERIOD STARTING ON JULY 13. The WyoGives campaign initiative was first created in 2020 by the Wyoming Nonprofit Network with the goal to give Wyomingites a chance to come together in a statewide day of giving separate from holiday giving seasons. The campaign excitement quickly grew when the giving calculator on the wyogives.org website reached $1 million before noon on the 13th. Several donors came together and for the second year in a row, Hughes Charitable Foundation contributed a donation match of $1 million. The 4th Annual WyoGives will be July 12, 2023. PROTECT OUR WATER JACKSON HOLE $ 109,240 JASON’S FOUNDATIONFRIENDS$ 60,250 WYOMING INITIATIVEHUNGER$ 57,770 SHERIDAN COMMUNITY LAND TRUST $ 47,808 BUFFALO BILL CENTER OF THE WEST $ 43,895 TOP 5 EARNERS DONORSDONORSDONORS55429998DONORS86DONORS 10 AU G 2022 COWBOY STATE BUZZ

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What are the elements that make up a great branding? Family. Friends. Neighbors. Food. Conversation. Camaraderie. Plus the gathering and corralling, roping and wrestling and branding, too. Of course. CENTERPIECE “Helping the Branding Season: CENTERPIECE

The whole gang at the Kennedy Ranch branding. PHOTO BY NEIL SUNTYCH the Neighbors”

B randing day begins with the work. This year, at Hageman Ranch in the Jay Em area, Dewey Hageman and his crew rode out at 7:30am. With 70 people, two corrals, two fires, two crews and lots of ropers, they gathered and branded 500 calves by 11:30am. His crew was comprised of friends, neighbors and relatives, all of whom had come to help with previous brandings.

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BY ALISON QUINN

“We have a really, really good core of neighbors and friends,” Dewey said. And they all trade work, traveling to each other’s ranches and helping one another out. “Sometimes there are two brandings in a day and two of us go one way and two go another way, so we get everybody help. We help a lot of people.” In doing so, they also get to visit with a lot of people, some who they may not have seen over the winter season, or had the time to sit and have a conversation with since before then.

Lexie Kennedy said one of her favorite parts of branding day is watching the kids get all saddled up to go gather; Kelly likes to watch them rope, noticing how they grow in their confidence and skills throughoutboththe day and year to year.

The Kennedy family has been ranching in southeast Wyoming since 1918, when Kelly’s grandfather first homesteaded. Kennedy Ranch sits at the foot of Laramie Peak and brands about 600 calves each year over three brandings. The third branding is a smaller, “youth branding,” where youth have a chance to learn the skills of branding –like roping and dragging – without the pressure of a hurried, fast-paced branding day. Kelly said the skills they practice here are also useful the rest of the year, as “branding isn’t the only time you’re going to need to rope something.”

Kelly Kennedy of Kennedy Ranch joked that you can justify all the socializing by calling it “helping the neighbors.”

“Youth have a chance to learn the skills of branding – like roping and dragging –without the pressure of a hurried, fastpaced branding day.”

Working on skills and confidence at the Kennedy Ranch youth branding.

Branding day is for the whole family.

SUNTYCHNEILBYPHOTOS

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“After the branding is done there’s always a magnificent meal and we all get to sit together and have a really good visit,” Dewey said. “It’s fun, just being with all of our friends.”

And this is the essence of branding season in Wyoming – it’s as much about gathering people together as it is about cattle.

That’s the idea of the Kennedys’ youth branding, to give people who don’t usually have a chance to practice these skills and develop their confidence an opportunity to participate and learn.

“There are a lot of really good cowboys and cowgirls out there,” Dewey Hageman said. Watching kids as they get riding and learn to rope and start wrestling calves – seeing them grow and grow – it’s really something to see every year. He has four kids himself and said, “It was really fun to give them advice and talk to them, but you can’t really teach them. They need to know how to handle their own horse.”

A rider ropes and pulls in a calf at Kennedy Ranch.

Neil Suntych, who photographed the branding at Kennedy Ranch, made a point to include Laramie Peak as a backdrop to the day’s work and companionship. This was his first branding and he wanted to capture every aspect of the event, so he started snapping pictures and talking with the group of 40.

They just have to do it – go in and throw a rope.

A calf brandedbeingatKennedyRanch.

WREN Magazine elected to limit our words in this article and instead allow photos of families and friends participating in the brandings mentioned above tell more of the story.

It was clear that everybody had a job to do, Neil said, and they all just jumped in and did it. “And there’s this camaraderie that goes with it,” he added. “They’re a busy bunch … They’re friends and neighbors helping out, and it’s quite the adventure.”

W Alison Quinn is a Colorado writer with great love and appreciation for Wyoming’s wild spaces. A cowboy works on roping a calf at the Hageman branding. Heating irons at the Hageman branding in May. Brands heating up in the fire.

PHOTOS BY SARAH HAGEMAN

Flip to page 32 to see reader submitted photos of brandings throughout the state! Branding day at Hageman Ranch near Jay Em. Riders bring more calves into the pen. One of the younger kids helps hold down a calf during branding. AU G 2022 19

RESPROUTING

Quaking aspen, Rocky Mountain maple and chokecherry are examples of woody plants that resprout; a number of grasses and wildflowers are also able to do this.

COLONIZATION

FIRE-ACTIVATED SEED

HOW TO THRIVE WITH FIRE (IF YOU’RE A PLANT)WYOMINGLITTLE

Thick bark can protect a tree from burning. Bark usually does not catch fire easily, and also protects the living tissue beneath the bark from damaging high temperatures. One of the most fire-resistant trees, ponderosa pine develops very thick bark as it matures. Historically, ponderosa woodlands were characterized by widely-spaced, large trees—the result of regular, low-intensity fires that limited the number of young trees.

Fireweed produces light-weight, wind-dispersed seeds that germinate when they land on bare mineral soil that is exposed to light—the conditions present after a fire or other disturbance. It spreads quickly by underground rhizomes as well as seeds. But once the vegetation has grown back sufficiently to shade the soil, fireweed will disappear, only to show up in another, newly-disturbed site. Groundsmoke and cheatgrass (unfortunately) are additional examples of plants that rapidly colonize after fire.

To us, fire looks destructive, which of course it is, but many organisms are adapted to fire. Plants may not only survive but thrive after a fire. Here are some examples of the ways that plants have adapted to cope with fire.

RAPID

Some seeds don’t germinate until they have been through a fire. Usually these seeds have hard coats that retain dormancy chemicals. Fire can crack the seed coat, releasing the chemicals and promoting germination. Snowbrush is an example of a shrub whose seeds remain dormant in the soil for many years, then rapidly germinate after a fire. A different sort of fire activation is exemplified by lodgepole pine. In this case, some of the seeds are retained in serotinous cones that cannot release their seeds until heated by fire. Not all lodgepoles produce serotinous cones, but where fires are more frequent, the proportion of serotinous to non-serotinous cones is higher.

Plants that can resprout after fire have an advantage over plants that must grow from seed. They can grow very quickly from underground buds that were protected from heat, though in the case of extremely hot fires, even these plants may be damaged.

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We had some history. Ferris Muler is a bay miniature mule who stands 34 inches at the withers. He is pretty nice as mules go except for one thing. He is pathologically afraid of needles. And he knew I was the veterinarian who came to vaccinate him each spring for the past three years.

Mule Duel

I strode up to the gate with a confident step. Ferris met me. He raised his nose, tipped his head a little to the right, and sized me up with a big brown right eye. I felt a little quiver as I looked down and met his gaze.

BY DR. BRUCE CONNALLY

As I bent down to administer the first vaccine Ferris became tense. When the needle touched his skin Ferris bolted forward and jumped sideways as far as the lead rope would stretch. The needle flew out of my hands across the barn. It glinted on the clean concrete floor by the door.

“The barn seems best,” Shannon suggested. “We can tie him to the stall so he can’t run away from you. It should be pretty safe for Ferris too.” It seemed like a good plan. Shannon led Ferris into the barn and tied him. Then she moved across the alley to a safe spot to observe. Ferris was keeping an eye on me. I left the syringes full of vaccine in my box, donned a pair of exam gloves and walked up to the little mule. Petting and talking didn’t seem to reassure Ferris. He stood quietly. He opened his mouth like a crocodile so I could do a dental exam. Teeth were excellent. His feet looked good and the winter hair that remained on his back came out easily.

“He looks healthy and his teeth are good,” I told Shannon.

“No, I don’t think you can help at all,” I replied. “Today this is just between Ferris and me.”

We had just finished examining and vaccinating the horses. Now it was time for Ferris.

“Ferris looks good this year,” I said to Shannon. “He still has a little winter hair on his back but otherwise seems the picture of health.” “Thank you,” she replied. “He and the horses have done well on our new place.”

“How should we do this?” I asked. Shannon’s husband was at work and Shannon was 32 weeks pregnant.

“I don’t think I can help too much,” Shannon apologized.

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“Time to do the vaccines.”

W

“Be gentle, little Ferris,” I repeated as I pushed my knees tightly against his left shoulder. Before Ferris knew what was happening, I reached over and injected a rabies shot into the right side of his neck. He jumped into me, causing me to stagger backward a step. Ferris was vaccinated against rabies.

“Well Shannon,” I said. “I have to formulate a new plan.”

“I am really sorry my husband couldn’t be here this time,” she replied. “It took both of you to vaccinate him last year.”

“Oh my gosh!” Shannon gasped. “Are you OK?” “I’m good,” I lied, alternately rubbing my left shoulder and then my left elbow. I wondered if my ankle was bleeding inside the leather boot top. “I learned to roll like that when my kids were riding bucking horses in high school rodeo.” The bravado seemed a little hollow after being rolled across the floor by a 34-inch mule. I found the empty syringe and badly bent needle under a shiny new miniature cart in the corner of the barn.

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“One down, one to go,” I announced to Shannon. “That wasn’t too bad.” I took the syringe with sleeping sickness vaccine from my medical box. Ferris watched me with one brown eye as I moved closer to his right shoulder. He didn’t try to escape but it was obvious Ferris knew what was coming. His ears were down and the muscles in his right shoulder were hard as spring steel against my knee. I leaned over and stabbed the needle into the left side of his neck. Ferris hurdled sideways into my knees, but I couldn’t stagger back this time. His right rear foot was planted on my left ankle. I crashed down and rolled across that concrete floor like a tumbleweed across the main street in Jeffrey City.

THE HUB OF THE BIG HORN BASIN

Curious? Step back in time to see our fossil collection and other historic items at the Geoscience Center and Greybull Museum. Hungry? From fine dining to cozy cafes to bustling saloons, Greybull can satisfy a variety of palates with 18 different area dining options. Adventurous? Visit dinosaur footprints just east of town or head west to our Flight and Aerial Firefighting Museum just on top of the Airport hill. I crashed down and rolled across that concrete floor like a tumbleweed across the main street in Jeffrey City.

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“I need some way to hold him since he jumps away from the needle,” I mused. “Maybe if I stood on one side and reached over his neck …” The plan began to form. I shortened the rope to limit how far the little mule could jump. I was pretty sure he was small enough that I could brace against him with my knees. That way I could keep him from jumping away from the needle until I got the vaccine injected. It would have to be quick but this plan just might work.

“He is vaccinated for the year,” I told Shannon while showing the empty syringe. I wanted to rub my sore knee but thought that might show weakness. “Not sure how we are going to do it next year.” “I know,” Shannon replied. “Ferris is such a good little mule the rest of the time. We have an 80-year-old man who is training him to drive. Maybe he can help.”

Dr. Bruce Connally practices equine medicine in central Wyoming and northern Colorado from his home in Berthoud, Colorado.

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Just out of the Marine Corps, on his way to Alaska, Robert (Bob) Beard stopped in Wyoming. And he never left. Driving cattle on the famous Green River Drift, branding, breaking horses and working with a beaver slide, this Oklahoma farm boy and exMarine was inducted to the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame (WCHF).

SOMMERSJONITAOFCOURTESYPHOTOS Just Doing My Job A REMARKABLE COWBOY WHO WAS ALWAYS WHERE HE NEEDED TO BE A headshot of Bob Beard. WYOMING COWBOY HALL OF FAMECO-OP SPOTLIGHT BY NEVA BODIN

welcoming 75-100 spring calves a day on the Miller Ranches, where there was “always something going wrong,” Beard said. “Millers branded three to four times a year, 600 to 700 cattle at a time. Some horses,” he found, “like to rope cattle, and some really like to cut cattle.”

Affection warms Beard’s voice when he speaks of breaking in workhorses and cow ponies. He trained horses when he fed hay in the winter, moved herds of cattle to mountain pastures and helped care for 3,000 head of cattle while

He’s suffered several broken bones through those experiences. “Millers was a horse outfit. We put all the hay up with horses,” he said. During haying season, they used horses to rake and stack hay with a buck rake and a beaver slide. The beaver slide, invented in the early 20th century in Montana, was a device to build large, high stacks Bob Beard on the head and Todd Stearns on the heels of a yearling that Charles Price is on the ground giving it a shot for foot rot in Fish Creek Park.

Did the horses ever object? “I’ve been kicked several times,” Beard said. “Some of those horses were born to kick.” He had several horses fall on him. “The more you are around animals, it’s just a matter of time before you get hurt.”

Farming & Ranching are STRESSFUL

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T he WCHF, created as a nonprofit in 2013, honors men and women who became the backbone and muscle behind Wyoming’s ranching heritage.

Favorite part of his life? “Being on a horse.” Does he miss it? “Very much so,” he said.

“You can have some terrible wrecks with horses,” he remembers. “You have to take the time and understand the horse. I like to teach a colt to follow a cow. And I like workhorses. They’ll give you everything they have. I’ve had a lot of workhorses and cow horses both.”

Of his induction, Beard said, “It was quite an honor, but I was just doing my job.”

When the Agriculture Community needs Resources, Dial 2-1-1 to find help. Get Connected. Get Help. www.wyoming211.org

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Trade Wars - Natural Disasters - Drought Labor Shortage - Commodity Prices - Addiction

Born in 1939, the year the Great Depression ended, Beard got a taste of Kansas, Oklahoma, California and Oregon as his father searched for work. Then Beard’s uncle in Oklahoma was disabled in a farm accident with a hay rake, and at age 12, Beard and his brother were sent to help his aunt manage her farm in Oklahoma. There were dairy cows, steers and chickens on the farm. When he was 17 and his uncle had died, his aunt lost the farm and Beard joined the Marines Corps. Three years later, he and a friend headed for Alaska by way of Wyoming, and never made it out of Sublette County. In the beginning, cowboying for him meant building fences for the Hoback Stock Association using horses as the means of transportation and hauling supplies. It meant moving cattle, sometimes in weather that freezes the nostrils and stiffens the joints of animals and cowboys. Beard remembers moving cattle from one pasture to another so they could begin feeding hay in weather that was “sixty below that night! It warmed up to 35 below, and that felt pretty warm.”

He worked with cattle for Lawrence and Vivian Shaul, whose daughter Florence he would marry in 1962, and cowboyed for George and Ruth Franz, where his love of working with horses began.

“He could read a cow very well. He was very good with horses and could handle them well. He was always where he needed to be,” said Jonita.

Beard had a knack for spotting and reading brands, and also worked as a brand inspector for the Wyoming Livestock Board for 26 years.

All those years of just doing his job got Beard into the WCHF. Seems he had a pretty important job.

W

“It helped compensate what you can’t make in the ranching business,” he said. He inspected about 35,000 head of cattle a year. He still has three saddle horses he occasionally rides to help manage his cattle, now combined with his son’s. And he and Florence remain on the land they purchased in 1980, which includes additional ranch land purchased in 1994.

Bob funneling cattle into the counting gate so the brands can be read on each critter. of loose hay, to be pitched onto wagons or racks during winter to take to the livestock. The buck rake, pulled by horses, gathered the loose hay to take to the beaver slide.

Echoing her sentiments, Albert said, “Bob is one of the most remarkable and quiet cowboys on a horse that you’ll ever be around.”

The Green River Drift, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was featured on a “60 Minutes” documentary in 2021: “Riding along the Green River Drift – the longest-running cattle drive left in America.” You can watch the clip on YouTube at bit.ly/ GreenRiverDriftClip.

Taking the cattle up the Drift took “three to four weeks depending on what the cattle moved like,” Beard said. Coming back in the fall, there were “about 8,000 different cattle on the Drift. You have to sort them and take yours home.”

Neva Bodin is a Casper-based freelance writer, author, artist and poet.

Bob is one of the most remarkable and quiet cowboys on a horse that you’ll ever be around.

Jonita and Albert Sommers, who “cowboyed” with him and nominated Beard for the Hall of Fame, wrote that he helped their family move cattle 70 miles to summer range on the Green River Drift, something Beard says he’s done multiple times over the years.

28 AU G 2022 WYOMING COWBOY HALL OF FAMECO-OP SPOTLIGHT

CORN SHOEPEG CORN SALAD CORN SALAD CHOWDER

Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001  wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions AASUBMITRECIPESUBMITRECIPE Send

Send complete recipe by March 10! include name, address and phone number. 772-1968 W. Lincolnway complete recipe by SEPTEMBER your

ERIC

name, address and phone number.  wren@wyomingrea.org |  [307] 286-8140  214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001  wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions CHILI CON CARNE BAKE For filling, fry ground beef and onion together until meat is no longer pink. Add remaining filling ingredients, mix well and transfer to a 2 qt casserole dish. For topping, mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder and salt in a small bowl. Add oil, egg and milk and mix well. Spoon over top of the filling. Sprinkle chopped chive over the top and bake at 400* for 30 minutes or until topping is golden and filling is heated through. HANNAH HEGE CARPENTER 1 LB GROUND BEEF 1 ONION, CHOPPED 1 15OZ CAN BLACK BEANS DRAINED 1 14.5OZ CAN TOMATOESDICED 1/2 TSP SALT 1 TSP GRANULATED GARLIC 1 TBS CHILI POWDER 1/2 TSP OREGANO 1/2 TSP CUMIN CRAB BOIL 2 TSP PER QUART OF WATER 12 RED NEW POTATOES 6 EARS CORN 6 4-INCH SMOKED LINK SAUSAGE 3 LB FRESH SHRIMP, UNPEELED 1 CAN WHITE SHOEPEG CORN 1 CAN FRENCH CUT GREEN BEANS 1 CAN LESEUR PEAS 1 CAN MUSHROOMS 1 SMALL JAR PIMENTOS 1 CUP CELERY, CHOPPED 1 CUP ONIONS, CHOPPED 1 GREEN PEPPER, CHOPPED 1/2 CUP OIL 1/2 CUP VINEGAR 1 CUP SUGAR 1 TSP SALT 1 TSP PEPPER 1 CAN YELLOW CORN 1 CAN WHITE SHOEPEG CORN 1/2 CUP CHOPPED GREEN/RED/ ORANGE PEPPER 1/2 CUP CHOPPED CELERY 1 MEDIUM CHOPPED ONION OR SEVERAL GREEN ONIONS 1/2 CUP CORNMEAL 1/2 CUP WHITE FLOUR 1 1/2 TSP BAKING POWDER 1/2 TSP SALT 1 TBS COOKING OIL 1 EGG BEATEN 3/4 CUP MILK 1 FRESH CHIVE CHOPPED FINE (OPTIONAL) FILLING INGREDIENTS TOPPING INGREDIENTS AU G 2022 29 COUNTRY COOKS

JANET

Drain corn, beans, peas, mushrooms and pimentos. Mix corn, beans, peas, mushrooms, pimentos, celery, onions and green pepper. Combine sugar, oil, vinegar, salt and pepper. Mix together and marinate overnight. Stir before serving. ROBERTS CUBA MO

Fill a large pot with enough water to cover all of the ingredients. Add the crab boil and bring to a boil. Adjust the crab boil to suit your taste. When the water boils, add the potatoes and sausage. Cook on medium heat for 20 minutes. Add corn and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Add shrimp and cook for no more than 3 minutes. Drain and serve with warm bread.

LOW

Combine 1/2 cup each vinegar, oil and sugar, dash salt. Cut pepper and onion the size of corn. Combine and refrigerate several hours or overnight. COLE LAKE SUNDANCE COUNTRY

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ANNE METZLER RIVERTON

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your

15! Please include

Please

PEN TO PAPER

05 06 0407 01 03 02 Through a Child’s Eyes Megan Hutchison, Dubois Fresh Brand Tia Cranston, Moorcroft Looking For the Shot Cindi Olson, Newcastle Family Tradition Alaina Bergstrom, Banner LoriOrinArcher, Gillette Keeping the Iron Hot Heather McLaughlin, Upton Branding on Duck Creek Jody Fakler, Weston BRANDING TREES THIS MONTH: OCTOBER (DUE SEP 15): JUST PICTURE IT 02010304050607

090810 11 090810111213 Calving Barn Chores with My Grandson Wylee and His Dad Matt Caster. Zelda Peas, Wolf Draggin’ to The Fire, Gordon Branding Robin Riesland, Newcastle Hot Irons Bob Isenberger, Wright JeanieRestingSchlautman, Gillette Ready for Another Branding William Latta Homestead Branding Irons Rob McIntosh, Torrington Brickman Ranch Branding in Dwyer Kathryn Stevens, Wheatland 12 13 SUBMIT A PHOTO Please include your name, hometown and a title.  wren@wyomingrea.org  214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001  wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions Please submit high-quality digital files* or an original we can scan, as well as details about the artwork, the artist’s name, and the co-op. *Use the highest quality setting on your camera, or save digital artwork as a .jpg or .tif file with at least 300 dpi resolution. If you would like your work returned, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. AU G 2022 33

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ENCAMPMENT ONGOING Grand Encampment Museum: Main Gallery and GEM store open Tue-Sat 10a-4p. Info 307-327-5308.

LUSK SEPTEMBER 3-6 Wyoming Rough Riders Mounted Shooting: Hours vary daily at the fairgrounds. Info 307-334-2950, 1-800223-LUSK, yahoo.com,luskchamberofcommerce@visitlusk.weebly.com.

SUNRISE SEPTEMBER 3 Street Dance: 8:30p, main street. Cash prize of $100 to winner. Info 307-575-0333.

GILLETTE ONGOING THROUGH NOVEMBER 30 Re-Visioning Seth Eastman, Officer Artist Among the Dakotas: Now on display at the Campbell County Rockpile Museum. Free. Info rockpilemuseum.com.307-682-5723, SATURDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30 Farmer’s Market: Held in parking lot of Berkshire Hathaway Real Estate office. 819 Country Club Road. Info GilletteSaturdayFarmersMarket.facebook.com/ ONGOING Ava Community Art Center: Info 307-682-9133, avacenter.org.

| NORTHEAST BUFFALO THURSDAYS Bluegrass Jam Session: 6:30p, Occidental Saloon, free. Info 307-684-0451.

1-3p, Pioneer Museum. This event is in honor of Lander’s long history as a hub of apple orchards. Lander was known as the “Apple City” for the high number of orchards and the apples that were produced here. Apples were an important part of the agricultural economy in this area for many years and the Apple City Festival pays tribute to this wonderful part of our history with Speakers programs, an apple pie contest (cash prizes), local apple cider and apple samples, kids crafts and a petting zoo. Info fremontcountymuseums.com307-332-3339

FORT LARAMIE SEPTEMBER 16-18 Quilts Along the Platte: 10a-5p Sep. 16, 17. 10a-2p Sep. 18. Fort Laramie Community Center. 28th annual quilt show, quilts and quilted items for sale, vendors, demonstrations, lunch on site 16th & 17th. Free Admission. Sponsored by Goshen County Quilters. Info 307-640-4002.

3RD

APPLE

NORTHWEST EVENT ANNUAL CITY

WHAT’S HAPPENING REGIONAL MAP SEPTEMBER 12-14 AND 15-17 Quilt ‘till You Wilt: Fairgrounds. Info 307-334-2950, visitlusk.weebly.com.luskchamberofcommerce@yahoo.com,1-800-223-LUSK, MEDICINE BOW ONGOING Museum and Gift Shop: Open daily 8:30a-4:30p. 405 Lincoln Highway. Info 307-379-2383.

TORRINGTON SEPTEMBER 30-OCTOBER 1 Yee Haw Daze: 9a, Goshen County Fairgrounds. Country festival featuring vendors offering handcrafted, vintage, recycled, repurposed, western and rustic treasures. A unique and historic atmosphere makes for a fun shopping experience. Free. Info 307-532-3879.

HULETT ONGOING Hulett Museum and Art Gallery: 8a-4p Mon-Fri, free. Info 307-467-5292.

34 AU G 2022 SEPTEMBERWHAT’S HAPPENING

ELK MOUNTAIN ONGOING Elk Mountain Museum: Free. Open through Labor Day. Wed 1-7pFri & Sat 10a-5p. Year-round by appt. Info ElkMountainMuseum.com.307-348-7037,

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WRIGHT SEPTEMBER 30 Hunter Rancher Chili Feed: 6p, Community Building at 201 Wright Boulevard. Gun auction, silent auction, and more fun for the whole family. Free admission, $10 donations at door are welcomed. Info 307-680-1606.

CHUGWATER THURSDAYS Acoustic Jam Session: Stampede Saloon & Eatery music venue open for jam session. Info stampedefun@aol.com.307-422-3200, ONGOING Live Music: Stampede Saloon & Eatery music venue open for Thursday night jam session and weekend performances. Info 307-422-3200 or stampedefun@aol.com.

01 | SOUTHEAST CENTENNIAL ONGOING Nici Self Historical Museum: Museum grounds and exhibits open Thu.-Mon. 12-4p. Free. Info niciselfmuseum.com.

FEATURED

SEPTEMBERFESTIVAL:LANDER17

SEPTEMBER 8 Weather Along the Trails: 7p, Pioneer Museum. In the 1840s and 50s it was estimated nearly onehalf million emigrants traveled the Oregon, Mormon, and California trails. Each pioneer had one common, constant companionthe weather. Meteorologist Chris Jones with the National Weather Service will discuss the

MOORCROFT SEPTEMBER 10 West Texas Trail Museum Heritage Round Up: 5p, Pitchfork Fondue dinner with live music. Info 307-680-2975. ONGOING West Texas Trail Museum: Now open year-round 9a-5p, Mon-Fri. Info 307-756-9300. Senior Center Events: Coffee and rolls 9a Wed, toenail clinic 9a fourth Thu, dinner 6p fourth Thu. Info 307-756-9550.

UPTON ONGOING Bingo at Upton Senior Center: 6:30p, $1 for 5 cards, Info Gary at 307-468-9262. Senior Center Activities: Lunch is served at noon Mon-Fri, $4, call for reservation before 9a. 307-4689267. Stop by Tue mornings for coffee and treats, with an exercise program at 9a. Seniors welcome Thu and Fri from 1-4p. Potluck at 5:30p third Mon. Ask about medical equipment loans. 1113 2nd St. Info 307-468-9251.

NEWCASTLE FRIDAYS Bingo: 7:30p, VFW Hall, free.

FRIDAYS Story Time: 11:30a. Dubois Branch Library, 202 N First St. Free. Stretches, story, songs, crafts, and fun! Ages birth-5 years. Info 307-455-2992.

ONGOING Senior Center Events: 145 Main Street. Carry-in dinner 12:30p third Sun. Rolls and coffee 9a Thu. Info 307-467-5743.

SEPTEMBER 10 Castle Gardens Adventure Trek: 9a-2p, Riverton Museum. View the petroglyphs at Castle Gardens and learn about the Bureau of Land Management’s efforts to preserve them. Reservations are required and can be made by calling the museum. $20 per person. This trek requires a good amount of COURTESY OF PIONEER

ONGOING First Friday: New artist and local musician each month. Art show reception 5p, music 6p. Middle Fork Restaurant. Info 307-335-5035, MiddleForkCafe.facebook.com/

LANDER SEPTEMBER 2 First Friday: 9a-5p, Pioneer Museum. Children admitted for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Info 307-332-3339.

THIRD WEDNESDAYS Wyoming Health Fairs Monthly Wellness Screen/Blood Draw: 7-10a, Dubois Medical Clinic. Appointments encouraged. Info 307-455-2516, whf.as.me/dubois.

RIVERTON SEPTEMBER 2 First Friday: 9a-5p, Riverton Museum. Children admitted for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Info 307-856-2665.

COURTESY OF RIVERTON AU G 2022 35 SEPTEMBERWHAT’S HAPPENING

ONGOING Cody Country Art League Gallery: 9a-5p Mon-Sat, 836 Sheridan Ave. Info 307-587-3597.

SATURDAYS Acoustic Music Jam: 11a-1p, Lander Bake Shop. Info 307-332-3237.

THURSDAYS Farmer’s Market: 4-6p, Nostalgia Bistro. Featuring local produce, baked goods and bread, dairy products, jams and jellies, herbs and salves. Info 307-455-2027.

SHERIDAN SEPTEMBER 13-OCTOBER 9 Koltiska Pumpkin Patch: Open 3-6p Wed, Thu, Fri. Open 11a-6:30p Sat, Sun. Last wagon goes to field at 6p. Open by appointment for groups before 3. Info 307-751-6093.

03 | NORTHWEST CODY SEPTEMBER 17 Mustang Rendezvous: 5-8p. Holiday Inn. Benefits the wild horses of the McCullough Peaks. Info friendsofalegacy.org.

DUBOIS SEPTEMBER 2 First Friday: 9a-5p, Dubois Museum. Children admitted for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Info 307-455-2284.

SEPTEMBER 7 How Geography Impacted Native Alaskan Tribes: 6-7:30p, Riverton Museum. Hank Overturf will discuss how the different geography and regions of Alaska impacted various native tribes, their art and culture. Free. Info 307-856-2665.

various challenges the weather posed - spring rains, a drier climate, wind, thunderstorms, and autumn snows - for these brave settlers of the West. A portion of this multimedia presentation will attempt to reconstruct the fateful snow storm encountered by the Willie and Martin Handcart companies. This program is free and open to the public. Info 307-332-3339.

SECOND & FOURTH WEDNESDAYS Gigi’s Closet: 9a-1:30p, First United Methodist Church. Gently loved clothing available for babies to adults. Info 307-746-4119.

GREYBULL SECOND SATURDAYS Greybull Ladies Coffee: Greybull Library. Info 307-765-2100.

POWELL SEPTEMBER 9 Farm to Table Dinner: 6p-10p. Washington Park, weather permitting. An outdoor dining experience with local foods. 21 and older event. $40/ticket – limited availability. Info homesteadermuseum.com.307-754-9481,

SEPTEMBER 15-18 RC Airplane Fun Fly: 8a. Fun for the whole family. Come out and enjoy watching or joining in on the fun! Info Jerry Umdbenstock 307-921-1086. SEPTEMBER 17 Gymkhana: Fun for kids and horses of all ages. Come to ride, stay for the fun! Free entry to watch; different priced entry fees to compete. Info Amber 307-431-1165.

SEPTEMBER 3 Go with the Flow Paint Pour Workshop with Rhonda Schmeltzer: 9:30a-4p, Meeteetse Museum. Learn how to make paint pours on fabric that can be stitched into fiber art or as stand-alone pieces. Pre-registration is required. Info 307-868-2423.

QUESTIONS SUBMISSIONS:&  wren@wyomingrea.org  [307] 286-8140  214 W. Lincolnway Ste. Cheyenne,21C WY 82001  wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions Look for more events BYSENDwyomingrea.org/news.atCOMPLETEINFORMATIONSEPTEMBER15! Please send events occurring in the month of November by September 15, and December by October 15 for inclusion in the WREN. Also, be sure to include the date, title, description, time, cost, location, address and contact information for each event. Photos are always welcome. ANSUBMITEVENT 36 AU G 2022 SEPTEMBERWHAT’S HAPPENING

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110TH Labor Day Celebration: Rodeo and craft fair. Info meeteetsewy.com.307-868-2454,

WEDNESDAYS Acoustic Music Jam: 6:30-8:30p, Holiday Inn Convention Center, free. Join in or listen as musicians and dancers perform. Info 307-856-8100.

THURSDAYS Toddler Move & Groove: 10:30a. Riverton Branch Library. Ages birth-2. Free. Info 307-856-3556.

MEETEETSE SEPTEMBER 3-5 Meeteetse’s

ONGOING Community Classes: Fitness, computer, workforce and kids’ classes are available. Valley Learning Center, times and prices vary. Info 307-782-6401, coursestorm.com.valleylearningcenter. walking. Please dress accordingly. Participants are required to provide their own transportation. Participants should meet at the Riverton Museum at 9a to begin the drive to Castle Gardens. Everyone is responsible to bring their own sack lunch and water. Info 307-856-2665.

SEPTEMBER 24 Children’s Archaeology Day: 2-4p, Riverton Museum. Dig into the field of Archeology with a dig box, wall painting, snacks, crafts, and more for the whole family. Free. Info 307-856-2665.

WORLAND SEPTEMBER 17 Ranchers, Assassins, and the Calvary: 10a, Washakie Museum. Tour major sites of the Johnson County War at the TA Ranch in Buffalo. The ranch offers a buffet lunch for an additional $21. Caravan leaves museum at 8a, arrives at ranch at 10a. Info Kurt Johnson 307-347-4102.

MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS Meeteetse Recreation District: 10:30a yoga. Info 307-899-2698, meetrec.org. MONDAYS Toddler Storytime: After school for kids grades 1 and up, Meeteetse Library. Legos, board games, crafts and more. Any kid not in school. Stories songs, games, crafts and more.

ONGOING Library activities: PreK Tales & Tunes Wed 10:30a; Starlight Storytime for birth-5 Wed 5:30p; Toddler Move & Groove birth-2 Thu 10:30a; LEGO Club grade 2-5 Thu 4-5p. Info 307-856-3556, fclsonline.org.

SECOND FRIDAYS ArtStroll: Stroll on Broadway Street in Historic Downtown Thermopolis. Info gatherer@panix.com.307-864-3002, SECOND SATURDAYS Great Until 8!: This event showcases the businesses who are staying open until 8p or later in town. Shoppers have an opportunity to win a $100 gift certificate by entering a drawing. They can bring their receipts from the participating businesses, with the date and time of purchase on them, to Discover Thermopolis at 541 Broadway by 8:15p. The $100 gift certificate will be valid at the business with the winning receipt. Info mainstreetthermopolis@gmail.com.917-589-7852,

PreK Tales & Tunes: 10:30a. Riverton Branch Library. Ages 3-5. Free. Info 307-856-3556. Starlight Storytime: 5:30p. Riverton Branch Library. Ages birth-5. Free. Info 307-856-3556.

SATURDAYS Farmer’s Market: 9-11a, Little Wind Center at the Fremont County Fairgrounds. Info 307-851-7562.

THERMOPOLIS SEPTEMBER 3 Rusty Old Truck Market: 10a-4p, downtown on 5th Street between Broadway and Warren Streets. Reinvented and vintage furniture and handcrafted goods. Fun for all ages: music, refreshments, and vendors. No cost. Info Bard 307-921-8540, Judy 307-921-8264.

| SOUTHWEST LYMAN THURSDAYS Storytime: 11a, Lyman Branch Library, all ages are welcome, free. Info 307-787-6556, uintalibrary.org.

MOUNTAIN VIEW MONDAYS Cub Scout Pack 7798 Meeting: 3:45p, Presbyterian Church on 3rd Street. We are always accepting new boys who are in 1st to 5th grades. Info MarNae at 307-677-2566.

SEPTEMBER 10 Homesteader Days Festival: 10a-3p. Streets in front of the Homesteader Museum. Celebrates the days of homesteading and farming with vintage tractors, antique machinery, demonstrations, activities, artisan/food vendors, and live music. Annual Ruby Hopkin Commemorative Pie Auction at 1:30pm. Vehicle Visions Car/Truck Show hosted by the Eagles Aerie #2426. Free – Donations Welcome! Info 307-754-9481, parkcounty-wy.gov.Homesteader@

WEDNESDAYS Storytime: 11a, Uinta County Library. Info 307-782-3161.

WREN CLASSIFIED ADS ARE $0.75 PER SIX CHARACTERS | CONTACT:  SHAWNA@GOLINDEN.COM  970-221-3232 EXT 22 PUZZLE ON PAGE 25 1912 Capitol Avenue Suite 500 Cheyenne, WY 82001 (307) Wwrablaw.com432-9399ills,Trusts&ProbateLandUse G A Y WOO D HO U S E D E BO RA H RO D E N K AT YE B R OW N CH RI ST O PHER B RE N NA N PUZZLE ANSWERS 10.9.8.7.6.5.4.3.2.1. Bee (beeline, spelling bee, beekeeper, beehive) Man (manhole, caveman or man cave, best man, medicine man) Ball (fly ball, ballpoint, ball boy, cueball) Key (keyboard, car key, Florida Key, piano key) Horse (horsepower, sawhorse, pommel horse, horse around) Blue (royal blue, blue moon, blue cheese, feeling blue) Day (daydream, opening day, field day, daybreak) Jack (lumberjack, jackhammer, jackrabbit, blackjack) Horn (train horn, greenhorn, hornbill, French horn) Nut (wingnut, nut house, peanut, nut cracker) FOR SALE New & Used Coal Stokers, parts, service and advice. Available for most makes. Thanks. 307-754-3757. Shaver Outdoor Wood Boiler Furnace. Aermotor Windmills and parts, cylinders, pipe, rod, submersible pumps, motors, control boxes, Hastings 12 ga. bottomless stock tanks and more. In business for more than 76 years. Herren Bros., Box 187, Harrison NE. 1-308-668-2582. WANTED Wanted CJ or Wrangler reasonably priced. Any condition but rusted. 512-797-1664. Antique Collector Looking For Oil Company Gas Pumps, Globes And Signs. Will pay fair market value! Also looking for general antiques for our antique shop. Please go to our website FrontierAutoMuseum.com. Located in Gillette WY, our passion is to preserve Wyoming history and the nostalgia of the past, especially Parco, Sinclair, Frontier, Husky and any car dealership along with all brands. We are also always looking for WY license plates and WY highway signs and State Park signs. Please call Jeff Wandler 307-680-8647 wandlerfrontier@gmail. com or daughter Briana Brewer 307-660-2402 bbrewer@frontierauto.net. We Pay Cash For Mineral & Oil/Gas Interests producing & non-producing. 800-733-8122. Want to purchase minerals & other oil/gas interests. Send details to: PO Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201. MISCELLANEOUS Soon Church/Government uniting, suppressing “Religious Liberty” enforcing “National Sunday Law.” Be Informed! Needing Mailing address. TSBM, PO Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540, thebiblesaystruth@yahoo.com, 1-888-211-1715. Guilty AssociationBy AU G 2022 37 CLASSIFIEDS

RIDETRAILTHE

The ravine loomed ahead. It had been virtually invisible until the horse ahead of me had dipped down and back up. I could see the deep path the water had carved through the sage and grass to cut across the landscape, and the longer I stared at it, the bigger it seemed.

I t had been nearly 20 years since I had been on a horse and I had been eager to join a small group of likewise inexperienced riders. We were on the historic Axtell Ranches in Hot Springs County and the test subjects –or crash dummies, as my husband teased – for two entrepreneurs. A mother and daughter team, Jennifer and Audrey were kicking around the idea of trail rides on their family property and needed volunteers to try out their skills. So here I was. Staring down a ravine on a horse I had just met.

ENLIGHTEN US

BY JACKIE DOROTHY

The day had dawned with a beautiful Wyoming sky full of wispy clouds. Just an hour before, we had met our rides. Mine was a beauty: white with a dark gray and white mane. His name was Dan and he didn’t look so tall –until I had one foot in the stirrups and was swinging my leg over his back. With one great pull, I succeeded in hauling myself up to dizzying heights. My knees reflexively tightened around Dan and he shifted slightly beneath me. Jennifer had mounted her own horse and demonstrated how to sit properly (lean forward) and how to steer the great beast (use the reins). We were then to ride in circles until we felt comfortable enough to ride out of the corral. I steadied myself and settled into the saddle. My feet didn’t seem to like the stirrups but after a bit of help, I was properly situated and ready to ride. I was surprised at how well Dan responded and how gentle his gait was. We practiced not running into each other and, once we were comfortable, left the arena. At first, I steered Dan like a car,

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JACKIE DOROTHY

Dan the horse.

It was one of my favorite moments of the entire experience. I had never curried a horse before and with a bit of trepidation, followed the advice to brush Dan in one direction. After the first stroke, my nervousness melted away. Dan stood still for me, enjoying the rub down. We bonded, if only for this one moment. It was a way for me to say thank you. Thank you for the ride and thank you for not bucking me off.

W Jackie Dorothy is a freelance writer and historian, and she owns a marketing agency in Thermopolis. So here I was. Staring down a ravine on a horse I had just met.

Jenniferravine.Axtell

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Clutching my phone, I clumsily pulled on the reins with one hand. A third “whoa” and Dan slowed down.

Caught by surprise, I bounced in the saddle and my cap flew off. I caught it and lurched around in my seat.

The rest of the ride followed a cow trail up through a small canyon and we ducked beneath low lying junipers. We all were enjoying the peaceful nature of Wyoming. Although the clouds moved in and the day became overcast and chilly, the ride was exhilarating and relaxing at the same time. We were soon riding back to the corral and after dismounting, asked to help brush our mounts.

Afterwards, we gave them treats and set them free in their corral. The horses promptly began dropping to roll around in the dirt and we all stood there, laughing. I had not only survived the trail ride but am ready to go again!

I inhaled the moment. The red hills, purple lupine dotting the landscape and singing meadowlarks. The sweet dusty smell of sage filled the air. An artist would be hard-pressed to capture the serene scene around me. The height no longer seemed quite as intimidating and Dan’s steady gait was reassuring. The cow trail we followed was well worn in the red dirt and flowers peeked at us from among the grass. We soon came to our first dip in the trail. The abyss loomed up ahead. I didn’t want Dan to know I was nervous and made sure to breathe. Down we went and then up. We made it through our first gully at an even pace. No bouncing this time! Now we were staring down into this second, more vast ravine. Dan was ready to go, and my fear was that he would take off in a leap. I grabbed the saddle horn and reluctantly gave him a gentle nudge with my knees. My eyes focused on Dan’s hooves as they navigated the trail. I kept a tight grip on the reins, keeping just enough pressure to make sure he didn’t hop up the other side and bounce me out of the saddle. He remained steadfast and we made it! forgetting that he could sidestep most obstacles and wouldn’t run into the gate. Once I figured that out, we were able to get into sync. Shortly into the ride, I was feeling relaxed enough to get out my phone to capture the moment. The grazing black angus and the riders in front of me were a peaceful sight. Calves frolicked under their mom’s watchful eye and the wide opens skies beckoned us forward. Suddenly, Dan realized that we were falling behind and his slow gait turned into a trot.

Belatedly remembering to turn my phone off, I zipped it into my pocket. No more pictures for now! I decided it was more important to enjoy the view – and stay in the saddle.

“Okay!” I yelped. “Whoa. Whoa!” I remembered what to say a second later.

Lexi Yarrington and Jennifer Axtell prepare to go into the and Lexi Yarrington.

Action figures A spoon Toy animals Coins Play food

Storytelling is all about creativity and imaginationplus listening, language skills, and critical thinking, too!

A key Game pieces A crayon Feathers Flowers Now, tell a story.

Find fun activities to do with your kids at wyqualitycounts.org/wren Find emptyanbag.

All WY Quality Counts activities are supported by the Wyoming Early Learning Standards as well as the Domains of Development, which include: WY Quality Counts, housed in the Department of Workforce Services, helps Wyoming parents and child care providers identify and create quality learning experiences for children, thanks to the funding of the Wyoming Legislature.

BUBBLEART!

LET’S TELL A STORY

Communication Sense of Self & Relationships Strong & Healthy BodiesCurious Minds

This months activity:

AN EASY WAY TO SPARK CREATIVE THINKING

Walk around the house together and pick up small, interesting items to put into the bag, then go outside and do the same thing. Here are some examples: Lay all the items out, pick one up and start your story using that item as the focus. Then, have your kids pick up items that drive what happens next in the story. You can use all of the items or some of the items, one at a time or in multiples; just use your imaginations!

WANT  MORE?

This simple activity will get your kids thinking, and all you need is what you already have around the house.

Pro tip: your storytelling bag is great to have on hand during transition times or when you find yourself somewhere you need to wait, like at a doctor’s office or at a restaurant.