Wyoming Rural Electric News May 2022 by American MainStreet Publications

MAY 2022

WYOMING

RURAL ELECTRIC NEWS

CASPER MAN’S INVENTION K E E P S T R A S H O U T O F S T R E A M S & R I V E R S

22 NEVER ENOUGH TIME! 38 PICKUPS

BASIN ELECTRIC

A D A P TA B I L I T Y

POWERING THROUGH W H AT E V E R C O M E S Y O U R W AY Each day brings its own challenges, and Basin Electric will help you power through all of them. We have the strength and versatility to adapt so you can keep your operation running, your business doors open, and your family safe and sound.

Reliable Energy for Our Way of Life.

2022 M AY

ON THE COVER

CENTERPIECE

Casper Man’s Invention Keeps Trash Out of Streams & Rivers STORY BY ELIZABETH SAMPSON

PHOTOS BY DAN CEPEDA

FEATURES 06 26

Cover photo: Brian Deurloo, president and founder of Frog Creek Partners, poses with a new Gutter Bin grate that was installed in front of the Frog Creek Partners Casper manufacturing facility.

JUST FOR FUN 20

KIDS’ CORNER

BOOK GIVEAWAY

MUSSELS

A H I S T O RY L OV E R’S G U I D E TO CHEYENNE

BY STARLEY TALBOTT AND MICHAEL E. KASSEL

PUZZLE

F I S H I N’ FOR NAMES

BY ALISON QUINN

CO-OP YOUTH

GARLAND LIGHT & P OW E R’S K I L E Y BROWN (CANNON)

CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

CO DY COW B OY RODEOED FROM W YO M I N G TO AUSTRALIA

BY ILENE OLSON

FROM OUR READERS

ESSAYS & ANECDOTES

STATE NEWS & EVENTS

COUNTRY COOKS

PEN TO PAPER

07 12

SEAFOOD

T H E H O R N E D T OA D

H E L LO, M Y N A M E I S S H AW N TAY LO R

BY SHAWN TAYLOR

JUST PICTURE IT OCEAN

WREA NOTES

HOME ON THE RANGE NEVER ENOUGH T I M E!

BY DR. BRUCE CONNALLY

ENLIGHTEN US PICKUPS

BY WALT GASSON

THE CURRENT COWBOY STATE BUZZ WHAT'S HAPPENING

WREA NOTES

H E L L O,

M Y

The idea for this column came to me the other night when I was hanging out with a couple that my wife and I have known for several years. One conversation had us talking about our jobs and if they were in the field we studied in college. Our friend asked me what I went to college to study, and pretty soon we learned, after all these years, they didn’t know much about my background or how I got to WREA (riveting conversation I know). I’ve been writing to you for 17 years. Some of you I’m sure are thinking, “Who does this spikey-haired punk from Cheyenne think he is talking to about living, working and raising families in rural Wyoming?” Which is a fair question and, since it’s likely that in the very near future I, on behalf of your local electric cooperative, might be asking for your help on some legislative issues, I thought I’d offer my bona fides in the hopes of garnering your support when and if needed. It’s true I didn’t grow up on a farm or ranch, but my mom did grow up on a dairy farm in Illinois. My dad grew up the son of a ranch hand in Campbell County. My parents both attended the University of Wyoming, met there and eventually married. While our family never had much connection to where my dad grew up, we did go to the farm in Illinois as often as we could, and in fact are heading back there this summer for a family reunion. The farm is the heart and soul of our extended family (aunts, uncles, cousins, second cousins, grandkids and great grandkids) that are spread out all over the country. Sometimes life gets in the way of keeping in regular contact, but whenever we decide to have a family reunion at the farm, everybody shows up. I spent my elementary and middle school years in Rawlins where my mom taught at Pershing Elementary School and my dad drove a fuel delivery truck across Wyoming and Colorado for Foster’s Inc. We moved to Laramie after my dad received a promotion, stopped driving and moved into the front office.

NA M E

I S

S H AW N

After graduating from Laramie High I attended Western Illinois University in an attempt to “cut the cord” yet still be close to family. Western was only about 30 minutes away from the farm. After freshman year I’m not afraid to admit that I was homesick and transferred to UW. I got my Bachelors in Science to be a secondary social studies teacher, and a couple of coaching certificates in basketball and volleyball. I wanted to teach in Wyoming but at the time I graduated there wasn’t much demand for social studies teachers. So I moved back into my parents’ basement in Laramie, substitute taught and was a bartender. My sister Dawn was working for Wyoming Senator Al Simpson at the same time. She came home one Christmas and realized I needed a change in scenery and profession, so she encouraged me to move to Washington D.C. and get an internship for a few months, then apply for teaching jobs back in Wyoming after. Long story short I got an internship with the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Afterward I was offered a full-time position with the committee where I read and absorbed everything that came across my desk, from forestry and mining issues to nuclear energy and electric utility industry issues, including cooperative issues. I left the Senate committee and went to work for former Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge, working in his D.C. office on various energy, environment and agricultural issues.

TAY L O R

that policy, and over the years many of our recommendations have been acted upon in some form or fashion. After Governor Dave Freudenthal was elected, yes a Democrat, I worked for him as a policy advisor on various energy and natural resource issues. It was a great experience and learning opportunity, but after two years I applied for the job of Executive Director for the Wyoming Rural Electric Association; WREA. I was not the first choice and had the opportunity to work for Kennecott Energy, a coal mining company in Gillette. That too was a great experience and learning opportunity, but as fate would have it, the first choice of the WREA board didn’t last long. I knew heading the WREA, working for and with the people in rural Wyoming, was what I wanted to do. So when the phone call came asking me to come work for WREA I took it. It’s been a great ride so far and I’m looking forward to many more years representing the rural electric cooperatives. I offer you my abbreviated life resume in hopes that, when I or your local REAs come asking for your help to reach out to elected officials on issues that will impact you, your family, your business, your neighbors and their families and businesses, you’ll know that my heart and soul are always with the folks of rural Wyoming and the member-owners of our rural electric cooperatives.

As much as I cherished my time in D.C. I always knew I wanted to come back to Wyoming. That opportunity presented itself when I was offered a job as Policy Director under the new Wyoming Energy Commission. It was a perfect opportunity to come home, to work on issues important to Wyoming, and to use the skills and knowledge I had learned in our nation’s capital. At the Energy Commission our goal was to present a comprehensive energy policy for the state. I’m proud to say we delivered

SH AWN TAYLO R

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

MEET THIS MONTH’S FEATURED HALL-OF-FAMER

THE WREN MAGAZINE WYOMING RURAL ELECTRIC NEWS The official publication of the Wyoming Rural Electric Association

PHOTO COURTESY OF MEL STONEHOUSE

The WREN Magazine, Wyoming Rural Electric News, volume 68, number 4, May 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 Merkley Shawna Phillips

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] 286-8140 wren@wyomingrea.org

POSTMASTER — Send address changes to — The WREN Magazine, Wyoming Rural Electric News, c/o Linden Press, Inc., 223 S. Howes St., Fort Collins, CO 80521, [970] 221-3232. Include 3-digit co-op code.

Mel and Irene Stonehouse leaving for their honeymoon at Denver Stock Show and Rodeo on Jan 7, 1940.

PRINTED WITH VEGETABLE INK



Garland Light & Power nominated Kiley Brown (Cannon), who was awarded a $1,000 scholarship in 2021.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KILEY BROWN (CANNON); ILLUSTRATION BY DAVID MERKLEY

CO-OP YOUTH KILEY BROWN (CANNON)

CO-OP YOUTH

WREN: Tell us a little about your studies. KC: I went to the Northwestern Community College District in Gillette, majoring in Biology and playing college soccer for one year. I then moved back to Powell and completed my Bachelors degree in Business Management. I recently completed student teaching with Lenita Moore at Powell High School and completed my Masters degree in Teaching Secondary Science. My interests include farming, clogging, running and spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy being involved in my community and watching my siblings compete in their activities, especially soccer! WREN: How have your hometown, family and/or friends influenced you? KC: My hometown has given me so many great opportunities to continue my learning and to grow through my experiences. I recently finished student teaching at Powell High School and really enjoyed being around the teachers that guided me through high school. Being able to student teach in my hometown at the high school I attended was such a great opportunity that not all people have access to. My family and friends have been my support system my entire life. They have supported me through all of life’s decisions and adventures and I attribute my successes to having this great support system that always has my back. WREN: What are your plans for the future? KC: My plans for the future include using my education to better myself at my job and continuing to run my clogging business. I am very grateful for receiving the scholarship from Garland Light and Power as it helped me complete my education without the stress of having to take out a loan.

HOMETOWN: Powell HIGH SCHOOL: Powell High School YEAR OF GRADUATION: 2017 COLLEGE: North Western Community College District (Gillette) Associate’s Degree | Western Governor’s University Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree MAJOR STUDY INTEREST: Teaching Secondary Science and Business Management

Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives are proud to support our youth, giving college scholarships and lineman scholarships. Youth Tour and youth camps were canceled this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Your rural electric cooperative may be taking applications for next year. See the insert in the center of the magazine for contact information.

THE CURRENT

Wyrulec Company’s 86th Annual Meeting

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WYRULEC COMPANY

WYRULEC COMPANY, HEADQUARTERED IN TORRINGTON, HELD THEIR 86 TH ANNUAL MEETING ON MARCH 31 AT THE GOSHEN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, WITH APPROXIMATELY 275 PEOPLE IN ATTENDANCE. Wyrulec members visited informational booths about the metering system, Operation Roundup, rebates and beneficial electrification, and later enjoyed a catered meal provided by the cooperative. The guest speaker was meteorologist Don Day of the DayWeather Radio Network. He spoke about climate change, including the man-made climate change theory, the record of accuracy and current climate change policies. A total of $10,000 in scholarships was awarded to member students, who were recognized during the meeting. Wyrulec awarded eight $1,000 scholarships, and there were two additional $1,000 scholarships from Tri-State Generation & Transmission.

Ryan Schilreff gave the General Manager’s report and discussed the importance of delivering reliable electricity. He shared information with the membership regarding the Colorado Public Utility Commission’s legislation regulating Tri-State G&T’s Energy Resource Plan, and the position of the Wyoming cooperatives and their portfolio concerns. Ben Scott, who had been representing District #1 since he was appointed in October, was elected to serve the district for the next three-year term. Dewey Hageman, director from District #2, also ran unopposed and was re-elected to represent the district for another three-year term.

Vice President Julie Kilty gives the Tri-State Report to the membership.

A cash drawing was held at the end of the meeting, and several door prizes relating to beneficial electrification were awarded.

Wyrulec members enjoying dinner at the 86th Annual Meeting.

Wills, Trusts & Probate Land Use GAY WOODHOUSE DEBORAH RODEN KATYE BROWN CHRISTOPHER BRENNAN

1912 Capitol Avenue Suite 500 Cheyenne, WY 82001 (307) 432-9399 wrablaw.com

MAY 2022

THE CURRENT

Governor Gordon Signs Lineman Appreciation Day Proclamation PHOTO BY SHAWN TAYLOR

GOVERNOR MARK GORDON JOINED COOPERATIVE CREWS IN CHEYENNE TO SIGN A PROCLAMATION TO MARK APRIL 11 AS LINEMAN APPRECIATION DAY.

The Governor with the co-op crews in attendance.

MAY 2022

ELECTRIFY AND SAVE

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

Tri-State is a not-for-profit power supplier to cooperatives and public power districts in Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming.

THE CURRENT

WREA Board Tours Burnett Dairy

PHOTOS BY MAGGIE YORK

A Holstein heifer enjoys the day in a plush bed of straw.

WREA BOARD PRESIDENT MICHAEL LERWICK ARRANGED FOR A TOUR OF THE BURNETT ENTERPRISES DAIRY FARM JUST SOUTH OF PINE BLUFFS ON APRIL 13. THE CARPENTER-BASED BURNETT DAIRY WAS STARTED BY JEFF AND JAY BURNETT, SONS OF JERRY BURNETT, WHO SERVES ON THE HIGH WEST ENERGY BOARD. The first-generation dairy quickly moved to the top of the nation’s industry in production for their size, milking approximately 5,600 cows daily, with 3,000 of those cows being under one roof. A digester lagoon is being added to the property to capture methane that will be compressed and put in the NG pipeline. Burnett’s also has a state-of-the-art calf shed that is industry-leading, and they are adding a building that will house a hydroponic system to sprout wheat to feed.

Michael Lerwick and Reese Burnett enjoy a conversation with the WREA board.

An employee places the milkers on the cow as they go by on the carousel.

A view from inside the carousel looking at cows as they are being milked. The carousel can milk 111 cows at a time.

MAY 2022

COWBOY STATE BUZZ

Wyoming 2-1-1: A Resource of Help and Direction EVERY DAY, HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS WYOMING FIND THEMSELVES IN CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE, OFTEN FOR THE FIRST TIME, THEY NEED RESOURCES THAT CAN’T BE EASILY FOUND. They may be looking for temporary financial assistance, affordable housing, food, shelter, transportation, a free or low-cost health clinic, addiction prevention programs, employment resources, parenting education, resources for children, support groups or other important resources. Faced with multiple agencies and nonprofits providing a broad range of social services, it can be difficult to know where to turn or how to start. In many cases, people may end up going without the services they need.

MAY 2022

Wyoming 2-1-1 launched 11 years ago as the first single, comprehensive provider of information and referrals for the state. A helpline and website which provides free, confidential health and human services information and referral, the goal of Wyoming 2-1-1 is to improve the health and welfare of people in Wyoming by connecting them to appropriate services. By dialing 2-1-1 or visiting wyoming211.org, people receive personalized information on locating community resources from an experienced specialist.

Wyoming 2-1-1 provides vital information on available services that can meet an individual’s pressing needs, including awareness of programs and services that promote education and health, and tools that can assist in moving Wyoming residents out of poverty. Providing resources also acts as a prevention tool. When parents or caregivers have their concrete needs met, for instance, they are more likely to be able to provide a safe and stable environment for their children and partners. Wyoming 2-1-1 is free, easily accessible and local to every community across Wyoming. F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N : W Y O M I N G 211. O R G

Scientific Discovery Stuns Doctors

Biblical Bush Shuts Down Joint Discomfort in 5 Days Amazing plant “prescription” gives new life to old joints without clobbering you. So safe you can take it every day without worry.

ccording to the Centers for Disease ConA trol and Prevention, more than 54 million Americans are suffering from joint discomfort. This epidemic rise in aching joints has led to a search for alternative treatments—as many sufferers want relief without the harmful side effects of conventional “solutions.” Leading the way from nature’s pharmacy is the new “King of Oils” that pioneering Florida MD and anti-aging specialist Dr. Al Sears calls “the most significant breakthrough I’ve ever found for easing joint discomfort.” Biblical scholars treasured this “holy oil.” Ancient healers valued it more than gold for its medicinal properties. Marco Polo prized it as he blazed the Silk Road. And Ayurvedic practitioners, to this day, rely on it for healing and Journal of Medical Sciences, 60 patients with detoxification. stiff knees took 100 mg of Indian Frankincense Yet what really caught Dr. Sears’ attention is or a placebo daily for 30 days. Remarkably, Inhow modern medical findings now prove this dian Frankincense “significantly improved joint “King of Oils” can powerfully… function and relieved discomfort as early as five days.” That’s relief that 10 times faster than gluDeactivate 400 Agony-Causing Genes cosamine. If you want genuine, long-lasting relief for 78% Better Relief Than joint discomfort, you must address inflammathe Most Popular Joint Solution tion. Too much inflammation will wreak havoc on joints, break down cartilage and causing unIn another study, people suffering from disending discomfort. This is why so many natural comfort took a formula containing Indian Frankjoint relief solutions try to stop one of the main incense and another natural substance or a inflammatory genes called COX-2. popular man-made joint solution every day for But the truth is, there are hundreds of agony- 12 weeks. causing genes like COX-2, 5-LOX, iNOS, TNK, The results? Stunning! At the end of the Interleukin 1,6,8 and many more—and stopping study, 64% of those taking the Indian Frankinjust one of them won’t give you all the relief you cense formula saw their joint discomfort go from need. moderate or severe to mild or no discomfort. Doctors and scientists now confirm the “King Only 28% of those taking the placebo to the reof Oils”—Indian Frankincense—deactivates not lief they wanted. So Indian Frankincense delivone but 400 agony-causing genes. It does so by ered relief at a 78% better clip than the popular shutting down the inflammation command cen- man-made formula. ter called Nuclear Factor Kappa Beta. In addition, in a randomized, double blind, NK-Kappa B is like a switch that can turn 400 inflammatory genes “on” or “off.” A study in Journal of Food Lipids reports that Indian Frankincense powerfully deactivates NF-Kappa B. This journal adds that Indian Frankincense is “so powerful it shuts down the pathway triggering aching joints.”

Relief That’s 10 Times Faster… and in Just 5 Days

placebo controlled study, patients suffering from knee discomfort took Indian Frankincense or a placebo daily for eight weeks. Then the groups switched and got the opposite intervention. Every one of the patients taking Indian Frankincense got relief. That’s a 100% success rate— numbers unseen in by typical solutions.

In addition, BMJ (formerly the British Medical Journal) reports that Indian Frankincense is safe for joint relief — so safe and natural you can Many joint sufferers prefer natural solutions take it every day. but say they work too slowly. Take the bestBecause of clinically proven results like this, seller glucosamine. Good as it is, the National Institutes of Health reports that glucosamine Dr. Sears has made Indian Frankincense the centerpiece of a new natural joint relief formula takes as long as eight weeks to work. Yet in a study published in the International called Mobilify.

Great Results for Knees, Hips, Shoulders and Joints Joni D. says, “Mobilify really helps with soreness, stiffness and mild temporary pain. The day after taking it, I was completely back to normal—so fast.” Shirley M. adds, “Two week after taking Mobilify, I had no knee discomfort and could go up and down the staircase.” Larry M. says, “After a week and a half of taking Mobilify, the discomfort, stiffness and minor aches went away… it’s almost like being reborn.” And avid golfer Dennis H. says, “I can attest to Mobilify easing discomfort to enable me to pursue my golfing days. Definitely one pill that works for me out of the many I have tried.”

How to Get Mobilify Right now, the only way to get this powerful, unique formula that clobbers creaking joints in five days without clobbering you is with Dr. Sears’ breakthrough Mobilify formula. It is not available in stores. To secure bottle of this breakthrough natural joint discomfort reliever, buyers should call with Sears Health Hotline at 1-800-211-9162 within the next 48 hours. “The Hotline allows us to ship the product directly to customers.” Dr. Sears believes in this product so much, he offers a 100% money-back guarantee on ever order. “Just send me back the bottle and any unused product within 90 days, and I’ll send you your money back,” he says. The Hotline will be open for the next 48 hours. After that, the phone number will be shut down to allow them to restock. Call 1-800-211-9162 to secure your limited supply of Mobilify. You don’t need a prescription, and those who call in the first 24 hours quality for a significant discount. Use promo code MBWREN0522 when you call.

THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION.THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE,TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. RESULTS MAY VARY FROM PERSON TO PERSON. NO INDIVIDUAL RESULT SHOULD BE SEEN AS TYPICAL.

CENTERPIECE

PHOTO BY DAN CEPEDA

CASPER MAN’S INVENTION

Brian Deurloo, president and founder of Frog Creek Partners, carries a Gutter Bin filtration system from his truck to a storm drain while doing basic maintenance in a Casper neighborhood.

MAY 2022

Keeps Trash Out of Streams & Rivers BY ELIZABETH SAMPSON

A Gutter Bin grate and system is seen in front of the Frog Creek Partners factory facility in Casper.

rian Deurloo saw a big problem, so he decided to fix it with something a little like a coffee filter.

The problem was small cigarette butts in the gutter causing huge problems for fish downstream. The solution was engineering a device to capture those butts before they had a chance to enter streams and rivers and eventually the ocean.

As an engineer, he had always hoped to invent something useful, and now he has done exactly that. His Casper-based environmental technology company, Frog Creek Partners, produces a device called a Gutter Bin that cities place in their storm drains to filter out trash and pollutants that are caught up in stormwater.

PHOTOS BY DAN CEPEDA

“Most Americans don’t realize that stormwater is flushed directly to our rivers and reservoirs when it rains,” Deurloo said. “It is not filtered through a water treatment plant.”

Newly-sewn materials are seen before they’re installed in the metal frames of the Gutter Bin systems developed by Frog Creek Partners in Casper.

He said when he designed the Gutter Bin, he wanted to create something that would capture pollutants right at the source but would also be super simple, reliable and easy to maintain. He came up with the idea for the Gutter Bins at 2:37 a.m. on his daughter’s 8th birthday. “I shot up in bed with an idea for a stormwater filter, and by three in the morning I was out in my garage building a cardboard prototype,” he said. “By four I was at Wal-Mart getting more material and spent most of the day building prototypes and writing in my invention journal.” One of the main things Deurloo targets with his invention is cigarette butts.

“

MOST AMERICANS DON’T REALIZE THAT

STORMWATER IS FLUSHED DIRECTLY TO OUR RIVERS AND RESERVOIRS WHEN IT RAINS.

MAY 2022

“Scientists have proven that one smoked cigarette butt placed into a liter of water with 10 minnows will kill half the fish in four days,” Deurloo said. “So, one cigarette butt can kill five fish. There’s about 4.3 trillion cigarettes littered around the world every year. If you’ve got all these little toxic bombs hitting ditches and creeks and rivers and reservoirs and oceans, it’s going to affect the food supply for the fish and humans.” Gutter Bins also grab pollutants like straws, coffee cups and to-go containers, and they combat less visible pollutants like microplastics and tire grind. Deurloo explained that as people drive, the tread of their tires wears off onto the street which gets washed into the gutters when it rains. “Millions and millions of pounds of tires are produced each year in America,” Deurloo said. “Where do they all go? They go in the street. They fall off our tires when we take off or turn the corner. All this rubber is hitting the road, and it’s flushed to the storm drain. Tire grind is proven to cause cancer in salmon.” While some drainage systems do have other filtration systems that collect some of those pollutants, the Gutter Bin traps it before it can even make it that far. “I chose to solve the problem closer to the source at the catch basin,” he said. According to Alex Jeffers with the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality’s Water Quality Division, Gutter Bins can be helpful for cities who are trying to identify and reduce nonpoint source pollution from stormwater runoff. “The Nonpoint Source Program recognizes Frog Creek Partners’ Gutter Bin stormwater filtration system as an effective tool for cities and towns to consider integrating into their stormwater pollution control plan,” Jeffers wrote in an email. “Gutter Bins remove pollution from stormwater before it can enter waterways, and they provide measurable pollutant load reductions and water quality benefits, 16

MAY 2022

Keeping Our Water Clean Even though Wyoming is a land-locked state, residents can still do their part to reduce pollution in the ocean. Here are three simple ideas to try that will help keep our streams and rivers clean as they make their way to the ocean.

1. 2. 3.

Reduce single use plastics. Bring your own reusable bags to the grocery store; use metal utensils instead of plastic; send your kids to school with their food in reusable lunch containers instead of baggies.

Keep an eye out for litter. Even if you make it a habit to dispose of your own trash properly, sometimes litter still finds its way into the gutter. If you see a plastic bottle on the street, chances are, it will eventually make its way into the storm drains which lead to your local river.

If you smoke, put cigarette butts in the trash or consider using a personal ashtray until you can get to a place with a trash can.

The Gutter Bin stormwater filtration system removes pollution from flowing water.

“

I CHOSE TO SOLVE

THE PROBLEM CLOSER TO THE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FROG CREEK PARTNERS

SOURCE AT THE CATCH BASIN.

which is a key component to water quality restoration and the Nonpoint Source Program.” Deurloo has obtained many patents, including several for his Gutter Bin as well as for the bags that filter the water, called Mundus Bags. He said his original prototype had a rigid filter bottom, but he needed something that would fit catch basins of all types—which is where the idea for Mundus bags came from. “Catch basins are like snowflakes—no two are alike,” he said. Deurloo and his engineer came up with the solution of a circular, tubular and flexible filter that would fit the most catch basins. Cities around the state and country are taking notice of this invention and are

Frog Creek Partners crew installing a Gutter Bin.

installing the Gutter Bins in their own

He also explained how easy the Gutter

catch basins. Sheridan, which is Deurloo’s

Bins are to use.

hometown, installed the first versions of the invention in 2016. “It’s pretty evident when you pull a bag out and it’s got just pounds of cigarette butts

“They are really simple to install,” he said. “You pull the grate off, and you drop the new system in. The new ones are even easier to maintain because the lid comes

and saturated waste and trash that they

off so easily. The bag comes right out, and

do work really well,” said Jacob Martineau,

you put it right back together. It probably

project manager with the City of Sheridan.

takes under a minute per bin.” MAY 2022

“

WE LIKE TO WORK WITH BUSINESSES AND

INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE A DESIRE TO CLEAN UP

Brian Deurloo, president and founder of Frog Creek Partners, poses in the company’s Casper factory where the Gutter Bin filtration system is sewn and assembled. The device helps capture litter and contaminants from runoff that enters storm systems.

THEIR COMMUNITY AND THEIR ENVIRONMENT.

Deurloo said Frog Creek Partners especially likes to participate in public/private partnerships. In this business model, businesses and organizations collect or donate funds to cities to pay for Gutter Bins. Then those cities take on the maintenance task of keeping the filters cleaned out as needed.

Zoila Perry, executive director of the Downtown Sheridan Association (DSA) said they partnered with Frog Creek Partners to install a Gutter Bin in downtown Sheridan. She said each year the association holds a polo cup fundraiser, and often they use funds from that event to support the Goose Creek restoration project. Installing a Gutter Bin lined up easily with that goal, so they used funds to purchase and install one in the heart of the community.

PHOTO BY DAN CEPEDA

“We like to work with businesses and individuals who have a desire to clean up their community and their environment,” he said.

The installation of the DSA’s Gutter Bin.

In Cheyenne, volunteers have been working over the last several years to clean up Crow Creek in an effort to revitalize and rehabilitate the creek. Members of the Cheyenne Rotary Club wanted to install Gutter Bins in Cheyenne to help with this ongoing effort. They reached out to the the Microsoft Community Environmental Sustainability team and Dennis Ellis, who is Wyoming’s Microsoft Community Lead. 18

MAY 2022

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRIAN DEURLOO

“We had a wonderful experience working with Brian,” said Perry. “His product really helps keep our creeks clean.” Like other businesses and organizations who sponsor a Gutter Bin, the DSA has their logo on the top of the one they paid for.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRIAN DEURLOO

Microsoft gave $100,000 to the Cheyenne Rotary to help pay for 63 Gutter Bins.

Brian Deurloo holding up a dirty Mundus Bag full of captured pollution in downtown Denver.

“Microsoft wants to be a good community partner and help protect the watershed it uses,” Ellis said in a press release. Individuals who want to support Frog Creek Partners have the option to invest in the company, Deurloo said. “We are seeking Wyoming investors, whether it be businesses or individuals,” he said. “Frog Creek Partners is selling equity in our company to raise money to increase sales, improve the product and build out the business plan.” Deurloo said interested investors can reach out to him directly at 307-797-7720. W Elizabeth Sampson lives in Cheyenne with her husband and two young daughters.

For more information, visit frogcreek.partners A close up of a Gutter Bin grate and system.

PHOTO BY DAN CEPEDA

MAY 2022

KIDS’ CORNER

ILLUSTRATION IS BY INNA WILLIS

www.wyobiodiversity.org

LITTLE WYOMING

FLEX YOUR

MUSSELS SUPER

SHELLPFUL Mussels have several other roles in the environment. They are food for many wildlife species like birds and otters, they provide habitat for other aquatic invertebrates, and when mussels die, their shells become important homes for fish and crayfish. Then, when the shells decay, they slowly release vital nutrients like calcium into the water.

Mussels are shelled, aquatic invertebrates that rarely move. They are found on the bottom of rivers, creeks, streams and ponds. Wyoming’s waters are home to seven species of mussels. Some can live for more than 100 years! They are incredible animals that help keep our freshwater systems clean and healthy. Mussels eat by filtering microscopic food particles out of the water. By simply eating, mussels clean the water of bacteria, algae and other particles.

WATER

PROBLEM

WOES Unfortunately, mussels are one of the most endangered groups of animals. Of North America’s 300 mussel species, 70 percent are at risk of extinction. Drought, dams, pollution and invasive species all pose serious threats to the survival of our native mussels. If boating in Wyoming waters, make sure to follow all Wyoming Game and Fish rules to keep our water clean and safe for native mussels!

SOLVERS Sedentary mussels have a unique way of multiplying and spreading. The female mussel keeps eggs safe until they develop into mussel larvae, called glochidia. She then forcefully expels the glochidia, launching them into the water where they must latch on to the gills of specific fish species, where they can continue to develop. Some mussels, like the plain pocketbook, have tissue outside their shells which looks like a minnow. They wiggle this tissue to lure fish over, which gives their glochidia a better chance of latching onto the correct fish host. When mussel larvae are fully developed, they drop off the fish and start their adult life.

If you’re interested in learning more about Wyoming’s mussel species, visit the Biodiversity Institute online store at wyobiodiversity.net to purchase a mussel guidebook—and then head to a nearby stream or lake to see what you can find! Free mussel stickers are available for the first 10 people to fill out the online form here: www.wyobiodiversity.org/index.php/wren.

Mobility Breakthrough

It’s not a walker. It’s not a rollator.

It’s the

Glide!

NEW

For millions of Americans, the simple pleasure of taking a stroll has become an impossibility. Age, injuries and a variety of conditions have diminished their strength and stamina, making walking a challenge… and even a health risk. Traditional walkers and rollators leave you hunched over and shuffling along. Now, medically-minded design engineers have created a product that enables almost anyone to walk upright, and to have a place to sit and rest when they need it. Best of all, it weighs only 19 ¼ pounds, so it’s practical and easily portable.

Arrives fully assembled

Features & Benefits ➤• Padded armrests distribute weight across

the upper arms and shoulders, not the hands and wrists ➤• Large free-moving, non-skid wheels provide a smooth ride and easy maneuverability ➤• Upright handles and locking handbrakes provide stability and safety ➤• Easy-adjust height control and “infinite position” hand grips fit almost any body type ➤• Comfortable mesh seat and adjustable backrest provide relaxed seating ➤• Stand-assist handles help you get back on your feet ➤• Crafted with the highest grade materials for safety and durability

One handed fold for easy transport

FREE

Utility Bag

Standing up straight allows for better breathing, relieves pressure on your neck and back, and enables you to interact with friends and family at eye-level. TM

Glide

by Journey Health & Lifestyle

85645

1-888-728-0307

HOME ON THE RANGE

Never Enough Time!! Time

“Time flies when you are having fun.”

h, the old adage. Time was certainly flying for me this morning but I was not sure I was having fun. My vet truck was scheduled for service so I was transferring much of my equipment into my son’s pickup. The plan was to have Matt pick me up at the repair shop. Then I would drop him off at school and take his pickup for my work. I should be able to finish pregnancy testing cows in time to pick him up from school and retrieve my truck.

Everything was working until I bent over to put a bag of equipment in Matt’s truck. Suddenly my vision blurred. I blinked a couple times. Nothing changed! A twinge of fear went through me. I straightened up and the vision did not clear. I checked my pulse, worried that I might be having a stroke. Pulse was good. When I reached up to push my glasses back in place I realized the lens was gone. No wonder my vision was blurred! A colt had struck the side of my face a couple days ago when I was trimming his feet. He must have done more damage to my glasses than I realized. I felt around and found the lens on the seat of the pickup. It is hard to fix your glasses when you cannot see your glasses. 22

MAY 2022

BY DR. BRUCE CONNALLY

An old pair from my desk helped me evaluate the damage to the new ones. The screw was gone but nothing else broken. It took a couple minutes to thread some soft wire through the screw hole and pull everything back together. A few twists and the lens was solidly in place, but I had lost 15 minutes out of an already tight schedule. We dropped my pickup off at the repair shop. “My horse must have gotten kicked,” the head mechanic said. “One of his front teeth is really crooked.”

“I should look at that,” I told him. “Right now I have got to get moving. Let’s make an appointment when I come back for the truck this afternoon.” “I’m going to be late for school,” Matt grumbled as I slid into his truck. Everyone else must have been late for work that morning, too. The traffic on CY Avenue was flowing a little over the speed limit. Matt disappeared into the front door of the high school just as the first bell rang. “Back on schedule,” I exhaled as I sped down Wyoming Highway 220 toward the ranch. My cell phone rang as I passed Paradise Valley. “I just sold two colts and need them Coggins tested,” a woman’s voice announced. “He wants to pick them up Saturday.” “If we draw the blood today,” I answered, “we might be able to get the results by Saturday but it might not come back until Monday.” “What time today?” she asked. I went through the schedule in my mind—pregnancy test cows, pick Matt up from school and retrieve my truck from the shop. “I probably can’t get there before 5:00 this evening.”

“That will work,” she said. I stopped along the road to write down her address before hurrying on to the cows. The cattle were all in the corral when I arrived. A man was digging frozen manure out of the squeeze chute from a previous day. In 15 minutes the chute was working and we were ready to start. We stopped twice to repair broken boards in the alleyway but by 2:15 p.m. all 200 cows were done. I was seven minutes late getting to the high school but Matt didn’t seem to notice. He was talking to two girls on the sidewalk by the parking lot. I honked to get his attention. “What’s the hurry?” He asked as he got in the pickup. “I have two more horses to work on,” I responded. “Got to hurry before it gets dark.” We got my pickup and moved equipment from Matt’s truck to mine. At 5:09 p.m. I pulled into the driveway where the colts were. A small gray-haired woman in pink sweatpants and blue tennis shoes met me at the driveway. “The colts are over here,” she explained, leading me down a little hill. Two yearling stallions were confined in a small corral made out of pallets tied together with baling twine. On the other side of the corral was a plywood shed. It was low enough that the colts had to duck their heads as they went inside. “I think I can catch them,” she said, climbing over the pallets. The two colts circled the corral, staying far away from their owner. When she cornered one in the shed it came blasting out, nearly knocking her down. “Can I help?” I asked. It was getting dark. I was tired, and my patience was wearing thin. “That would be good,” she said, crawling over the pallet fence and handing me the halter.

I had no more success than she did. “How do you usually catch them?” I asked in frustration driven by fatigue. “Oh, the guy that halter broke them used to rope them,” she responded. “I have a rope in my truck,” I grumbled. “Maybe we can get this done before it’s completely dark.” The first colt was easy. As soon as I threw the loop around his neck he stopped. I was able to put the halter on and even draw blood from his neck for the Coggins test. The second colt was not as cooperative. Twice I missed because he ducked his head as I threw. I tried to corner him in the shed but I could not even stand up in there without hitting my head, let alone throw the rope. My third throw was successful. The rope settled over his neck and I pulled tight. Unlike the

first colt, this one came up the rope at me, reared, and struck me on the top of the head with his front foot. My cap flew off and blood began dripping down my forehead on to my glasses. I snapped the rope a couple times to make the colt back up. After several steps backward he stopped, trembling from a mixture of fear and adrenaline. My hands shook with that same mixture as I put the needle into the colt’s neck to draw blood. I climbed over the pallet fence with the blood in hand. The lady in the pink sweatpants was blurry in the now full darkness as I carried my bloody glasses in my hand. “I sure hope you can get those Coggins tests back by Saturday,” she said. W Dr. Bruce Connally practices equine medicine in central Wyoming and northern Colorado from his home in Berthoud, Colorado.

Residential & Commercial Lots Available in Greybull!

35 LOTS COMMERCIAL BUSINESS PARK

• Great re-development site for companies looking for growth • Southwest of Greybull

35 LOTS

1.53 & 2.25 ACRES

FRONTIER HOUSING SUBDIVISION • located 2 miles east of Greybull on Basin Gardens Road • Each with a beautiful view of Big Horn Mountains

FOR MORE INFORMATION

townofgreybull.com | 307-765-9431 24 South 5th Street, Greybull, WY MAY 2022

B OB O KO K G IR VE EV AI WE WA Y

A History Lover’s Guide to Cheyenne STARLEY TALBOTT AND MICHAEL E. KASSEL DESCRIPTION BY ARCADIA PUBLISHING

Celebrating at their encampment near Crow Creek on July 4, 1867, railroad surveyors named the settlement after the local Cheyenne tribe. By the time the Union Pacific Railroad arrived in November, the town had grown from a tent city to a “Hell on Wheels” town of ten thousand souls. Cattle barons brought herds to graze the open range, while they reposed in mansions on Millionaires Row. By 1890, the gleaming dome of the new capitol building was visible all the way down Capitol Avenue to the majestic Union Pacific Railroad Depot. Authors Starley Talbott and Michael Kassel explore a rich past, including the origins of the F.E. Warren Air Force Base, the foundation of the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and the unheralded history of early aviation that eclipsed Denver.

WIN A

FREE COPY

ORDERING INFORMATION:

WYOMING IN ART BOOK WINNER:

Name: 2021 | 160p. | $21.99 paperback ISBN: 978-1467149525 Publisher: Arcadia Publishing Available for purchase online at arcadiapublishing.com or by phone at 844-868-1798.

Phone:

OF FORT LARAMIE

ENTRIES DUE BY JUNE 15 One entry per household, please. 24

MAY 2022

CHARLOTTE SMITH

Address:

 GUIDE TO CHEYENNE

c/o WREN Magazine 214 W. Lincolnway, Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001

 wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions

PUZZLE

Fishin’ for Names BY ALISON QUINN

More than 22 species of fish make their home in Wyoming’s 4,200 lakes, 14 reservoirs and 27,000 miles of rivers and streams. But really, this is trout country. How good are your trout identification skills? Test them out here. If you need some help reeling the answers in (trout are acrobats, after all), swim over to page 37.

 Hints: • Named for the pink stripe on its side • Identifiable by the black spots on its dorsal fin and body • Steelhead are the anadromous of this type of trout

 Hints: • Named for the red coloring under the lower jaw • Considered the most varied trout subspecies with 11 types • Each type looks unique and lives in particular drainage areas or rivers

 Hints: • Look at the color! • Also features reddish-orange stripes • These trout are found in higher-altitude freshwater lakes and rivers

 Hints: • The name may be misleading • Typically have orange-red spots with a silver ring around them • Has a salmon-like look because they’re related to the Atlantic Salmon

 Hints: • A deep water fish that can grow to be more than 80 pounds • Identifiable by a forked tail and creamy spots • Many nicknames, depending on where you catch them: Togue, Touladi, Grey Trout, Namaycush, Mackinaw

 Hints: • Most range between one and two pounds • Identifiable by worm-like markings and the white edges found on their lower fins • It’s possible to find this species of trout anywhere the water is cold enough

CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

WYOMING COWBOY HALL OF FAME

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MEL STONEHOUSE

A Camel Cigarettes print ad when Mel was at the height of his rodeo career.

Cody Cowboy RODEOED FROM WYOMING TO AUSTRALIA BY ILENE OLSON

Despite struggling as a youth, being seriously injured in a rodeo and experiencing pain for decades, Mel Stonehouse remained a resilient cowboy with a legendary sense of humor to the end of his days.

“H

e always had a twinkle in his eyes and was up to something,” said his granddaughter Yancy Bonner, who successfully nominated Stonehouse for the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame. Stonehouse was born in 1912. In 1918, his father went into town to get supplies, but froze to death in a blizzard before he made it home.

Stonehouse’s mother placed him and his brother in an orphanage in Denver. He struggled there, but escaped at age seven. He never knew what happened to his brother. “We don’t even know his name,” Bonner said. After leaving the orphanage, Stonehouse bounced from one ranch to another, trying to find enough work to survive, Bonner’s nomination said. He ended up in Tijuana, Mexico, working as a jockey. There, he met stock contractor Ed McCarty, who was in Mexico to buy bulls. McCarty took Stonehouse under his wing and brought him to the McCarty ranch near Chugwater, where the boy worked and learned to ride broncs. “He always considered the McCartys as his family,” Bonner said. Stonehouse entered his first rodeo at 16. By the 1930s he’d made a name for himself. He met his future wife, Irene Way, in 1938. They married in 1940 in Cody.

McCarty put on rodeos in England and Australia, where Stonehouse rode broncs with the American team, Bonner said. “He learned about other cultures and cowboys and horse people from other countries. I really think that helped to broaden his world view.” In addition to rodeoing, Stonehouse built a successful outfitting business guiding hunting and fishing trips in northwest Wyoming. He also managed the J Bar 9 Ranch on the South Fork of the Shoshone River. “He spent the majority of his midlife years horseback in the mountains, and he raised and broke many good horses in the process,” Bonner said in her nomination. By 1950, Stonehouse had retired from rodeo life to focus on his young family (John was born in 1942, Kathy in 1946 and Rick in 1960) and his outfitting business. But, when a bronc rider didn’t show up one day, he gave in to coaxing and took one more ride at the Cody Stampede. That proved to be a fateful decision; the bronc smashed Stonehouse’s leg into a fence, breaking it badly in three places.

remember the grimace on his face when he had to take the bandage off each night and put a new one on.” Stonehouse’s leg was amputated three decades after it was broken. But that didn’t stop him from doing what he loved. “He quickly learned he was still at home in the saddle,” Bonner’s nomination said. Stonehouse went to work for Western artist Harry Jackson on the Salty Dog Ranch outside Cody, where he built a prized herd of longhorn cattle that he cared for, bum leg and all, for the next decade.

Mel horseback in the mountains in the 1940s.

Stonehouse spent eight weeks with his leg in traction. When released from the hospital, he went straight into the mountains, and the cast on his leg got damaged. The bone had to be rebroken and put in a new cast. A staph infection set in, and his leg never healed correctly. “He suffered for 30 years, until I was six years old,” Bonner said. “I can still

The newlyweds headed to Colorado, where Stonehouse competed in bronc riding in the Denver stock show. “There’s a picture of him and my grandmother, all dressed up, heading to Denver for the Winter Stock Show and Rodeo,” Bonner said. “I think that’s my very favorite story about them. My grammy just cheerfully went with him, and that was their honeymoon.”

He learned about other cultures and cowboys and horse people from other countries. I really think that helped to broaden his world view.

MAY 2022

CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

WYOMING COWBOY HALL OF FAME

PHOTO COURTESY OF MEL STONEHOUSE

Then he worked on another small ranch outside Cody, running yearlings and cow/calf pairs. Stonehouse was a small, tough and wiry man, about 5 feet, 8 inches tall. “He was kind of legendary in the Cody community,” Bonner said. He was a jokester and a wild man, and he went through a period of being a barroom brawler.

After gathering cows on the J Bar 9 Ranch on the South Fork outside of Cody.

He was kind of legendary in the Cody community.

But Stonehouse was also a caring person, and a loving father and grandfather. After spending most of his youth without one, Stonehouse “really valued family,” Bonner said. He would drop everything when needed to watch Bonner and her sister Hallie, and he gave them treats their mother normally wouldn’t allow them to have. “C’mon, girls,” he told them one day. “Let’s go get some ice cream.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF YANCY BONNER

Yancy Bonner (right) and her daughter, Bliss, stand beside a display of memorabilia that belonged to Bonner’s grandfather, Mel Stonehouse, after his induction into the Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2020.

On their way to Dairy Queen, they were stopped by a flagger at a construction area. “He struck up a conversation with [the flagger] like they’d known each other for years,” Bonner said. When he and the girls got to Dairy Queen, Stonehouse ordered four milkshakes. “Grandpa, what are you doing?” the girls asked. “There’s only three of us.” He didn’t answer, but on the way home, he gave the fourth one to the flagger.

Farming & Ranching are STRESSFUL Trade Wars - Natural Disasters - Drought Labor Shortage - Commodity Prices - Addiction

When the Agriculture Community needs Resources, Dial 2-1-1 to find help.

Get Connected. Get Help. www.wyoming211.org Helping Those Who Feed The World 28

MAY 2022

“She looked hot, and he thought she might enjoy a milkshake,” Bonner said. Stonehouse died of lung cancer in 1989. Until then, “He got up every day and was feeding cows and horses,” Bonner said. “He had a lot of adversity in his life, but in hindsight, he just dealt with it really well and still had a pretty good quality of life.” Stonehouse was inducted into the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2020. W Ilene Olson is a freelance photographer, writer and editor in Powell.

CORRECTION

COUNTRY COOKS

SEAFOOD

EASY COD

RANCH STYLE SHRIMP

FISH GUMBO

1 LB SMALL SHRIMP PEELED, RAW OR COOKED (IF COOKED ADD AT THE END TO HEAT) 2 TBS EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL

2 COD FISH FILLETS

GARLIC CLOVES, SMASHED

1/2 LB CHICKEN (COOKED & SHREDDED)

2 ROMA TOMATOES, DICED

1/2 LB ROAST (COOKED & SHREDDED)

2 GREEN ONIONS, SLICED 1 JALAPEÑO PEPPER, NO MEMBRANE OR SEEDS FOR HEAT, AS DESIRED

3 BRATWURST (COOKED AND SLICED INTO CIRCLES)

Heat garlic cloves in olive oil over medium heat. If using raw shrimp, sautée until gaining shrimp color, turn over. Remove from frying pan and cook tomatoes, green onion and jalapeño. When heated through add shrimp back in fry pan. If needing liquid, add chicken broth or beer. Serve with rice, refried beans, tossed salad or tortillas. NANCY CONGER

1/2 CUP RICE (UNCOOKED)

4 CUPS WATER

1 CHOPPED ONION

2 MEDIUM ONIONS, CHOPPED

2 TBS LEMON JUICE

1 CHOPPED GREEN PEPPER

1 CUP CHOPPED CELERY

1 TSP SALT

1 TBS SALT

1 CUP CHOPPED GREEN ONIONS

2 BAY LEAVES

1 TSP BLACK PEPPER

2 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED

1/4 TSP DRIED THYME LEAVES

1/2 TSP GROUND THYME

1/2 CUP FLOUR

2 LBS SHRIMP, PEELED, DEVEINED

1 QT OF CHICKEN BROTH

2 CANS (16 OZ EACH) TOMATOES, DRAINED

1/2 TSP TABASCO PEPPER SAUCE

1/2 CUP MILK

Mix all ingredients together and bring to a boil. Chop the cod fish in chunks as it cooks. Boil for 30 minutes while stirring constantly. Let cool for 30 minutes. Eat with crackers or biscuits.

PINE BLUFFS

ERIC ROBERTS

3 TBS FINELY CHOPPED BREAD AND BUTTER PICKLES 2 1/2 TBS MIRACLE WHIP

SHRIMP ETOUFEE 1/2 CUP BUTTER OR MARGARINE

CUBA, MO

TUNA SPREAD FOR CRACKERS 5 OZ CAN OF TUNA, DRAINED

There was a mistake in the ingredients listed for the vanilla wafer dessert in the April issue of WREN. Please see the correct recipe on page 37. We apologize for this error.

HOT COOKED RICE

In Dutch oven melt butter: add onions, celery, green onions and garlic. Cook 5 minutes or until tender. Add flour; stir until well blended. Stir in water, tomatoes, lemon juice, salt, bay leaves and thyme. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer covered 30 minutes; stir occasionally. Add shrimp and Tabasco sauce. Simmer 5 minutes longer or until shrimp turn pink. Remove bay leaves. Serve over rice. Makes 8 servings. ANN SHELLHART GRANITE CANON

Mix all the ingredients together and enjoy with your favorite crackers. HANNAH HEGE

CARPENTER

1 TSP PREPARED MUSTARD

JULY:

MELON

Send Sendcomplete completerecipe recipeby byMarch June 15! 10!

Please Pleaseinclude includeyour yourname, name,address addressand andphone phonenumber. number. S SU UB BM M II T T A AR RE EC C II P PE E

wren@wyomingrea.org | |  [307] 772-1968 286-8140   wren@wyomingrea.org  [307]   214 214W. W.Lincolnway LincolnwaySte. Ste.21C 21CCheyenne, Cheyenne,WY WY82001 82001 wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions   MAY 2022

APRIL ISSUE CORRECTION

PEN TO PAPER

The Horned Toad JIM DARLINGTON

NEWCASTLE

Why Did I Leave Wyoming Is written by Louise Davis

The noble horned toad has been carrying the load, Since it was declared Wyoming’s State Reptile. This most charismatic of creatures, has many good features, The best of which is that they are very docile. Many are smitten that they are as gentle as a kitten, And even though they aren’t covered in soft fur, When you stroke their chin, you can see them grin, And almost expect to hear them purr. They may be slow, but they watched the dinosaurs come and go, And were here when the first folks crossed the Bering Strait. They saw Custer pass by, before he rode off to die, And watched homesteaders come to try out their fate. They represent the Cowboy State, with lives we could all emulate. They just do their job, mind their own business, and keep quiet. As survival wizards, they’ve made it through droughts and blizzards, But as much as I admire ‘em, I’ll never include ants in MY diet!

We share a selection of WREN readers’ creative writing (poems, limericks, haiku, short verse, and prose) every issue as space and content allow. To be considered for publication, please include the author’s consent to be submitted, his or her mailing address, and confirmation that the work has not been published elsewhere. If you would like us to return your work, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. 30

MAY 2022

Put Your Pen to Paper!

Please include your name, address, and phone number. SUBMIT A PIECE

 wren@wyomingrea.org |  [307] 286-8140  214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001  wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions

Lighthouse Near Pacifica, California Rob McIntosh, Torrington

California Coast North of Morro Bay Ron Blevins, Dubois

Northern California Coast Andrew O’Connor, Yoder

Pensacola Beach, Florida Sunset Rebecca Stoddard, Sundance

Lucky Dog at Ocean City, Maryland Heather McLaughlin, Upton

Beach Buddy Bernie Borland, Gillette

Atlantic Ocean off the Florida coast Butch Moretti, Lyman

Blow Hole Robin Feezer, Cheyenne

JUST PICTURE IT

THIS MONTH:

JULY (DUE JUN 15):

OCEAN

RESCUE

09 11

10 12

Protector of the Ocean Judy Cramer, Thermopolis

Queen Triggerfish Charles Dirks, Buffalo

Seagulls in Newport, Oregon Scout Olson, Newcastle

Whale watching near Provincetown, MA Steve Mockler, Lander

Portland Head Light Maine Debbie Vizina, Cheyenne

Wyoming is ready to race in Mississippi Eileen Hill, Casper

Hawaiian sunset Carol Enderson, Cheyenne

Cruise Ship off the Coast of Catalina Island Byron Smith, Laramie

14 15

18 20

Our Ocean Get Away Scott & Jennifer Reculusa, Casper

Beach Walk Stacie Dunn, LaGrange

Yaquina Head Lighthouse Agate Beach, Oregon Joel Shevlin, Saratoga

Benny in the Puget Sound, Pacific Ocean Kathryn Stevens, Wheatland

Luck be a Lady Kellie Berdon, Moorcroft

Oregon coastal beach near Otter Rock Jean Harm, Sheridan

Cape Meares, Oregon James Alsop, Laramie

19 22

SUBMIT A P H OTO

 wren@wyomingrea.org  214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001  wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions Please include your name, hometown and a title.

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.

MAY 2022

WHAT’S HAPPENING

WHAT’S HAPPENING REGIONAL MAP

03 04

JUNE

01 | SOUTHEAST CENTENNIAL APPLICATION DEADLINE JULY 1

Wyoming Centennial Farm and Ranch Program: This program honors families who have owned and operated the same farm or ranch for 100 years or more. Centennial families are invited to submit their family history and photographs. The history of Wyoming’s farms and ranches have played a key role in preserving Wyoming’s heritage. Info wyoshpo.wyo.gov, Bethany Kelly 307-777-7530, bethany.kelly@wyo.gov.

C H U G WAT E R PHOTO COURTESY OF CENTENNIAL VALLEY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

JUNE 10-12

FEATURED EVENT

5th Annual Treasures Along the Platte: Street Markets, Antiques and Garage Sales throughout Platte County. Free. Info 307-322-6232. JUNE 18

CENTENNIAL VALLEY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT OPEN HOUSE CENTENNIAL SAT, JUNE 18



12-3PM

4 North Fork Rd. Come join us for an afternoon of fun, raffles and silent auctions. Enjoy a free roast pig lunch and check out latest improvements. Buy a chance in the Special Raffle for a beautiful Henry .44 Magnum Rifle. Info Odell@uwyo.edu SOUTHEAST 34

MAY 2022

36th Annual Chili Cook-off and Round-up: 9a-8p, Staats Park. Join us for the largest single-day event in the state. Funds raised are invested back into the Chugwater community and help support our local Economic Development Center and Historical Group, local schools, volunteer Fire Department, and Community Center, as well as a new scholarship fund. It is not required to buy tickets online, but we only accept cash at the venue. Tickets cover all day events including the rodeo. Info chugwaterchilicookoff.org, chugwaterchilicookoff@gmail.com.

ENCAMPMENT JUNE 11

Mark Miller presents his book on the outlaw Big Nose George: 6:30p, Grand Encampment Opera House. Free. Presentation and book signing by former state archeologist Mark Miller for his book Big Nose George: His Troublesome Trail. Info Tim Nichlas 307-327-5308. JUNE 18

Woodchoppers Jamboree & Rodeo: 9a. $10 per day. Info Ron Harvey 307-327-5429, Jerry Kraft 307-327-5374.

GUERNSEY JUNE 10-12

5th Annual Treasures Along the Platte: Street Markets, Antiques and Garage Sales throughout Platte County. Free. Info 307-322-6232.

LA GRANGE JUNE 25

LaGrange Mini Fair: 7a, free. Cheers to 50 years! A full day of old-fashioned family fun. Breakfast in the park, parade,

5k run, gymkhana, stick horses, kids games, corn hole tournament and outdoor concert by Susie McEntire. Info Tonja Tosh 509-331-4049.

LUSK JUNE 24

Alumni Golf Tournament: All day, Niobrara Golf Course. Two different flights. Info luskchamberofcommerce@yahoo. com, visitlusk.weebly.com, 307-334-2950. JUNE 25

Alumni Events: Garage sales, free BBQ at Lusk State Bank. 5p banquet at fairgrounds. Info luskchamberofcommerce@yahoo.com, visitlusk.weebly.com, 307-334-2950. JUNE 26

Community Church Service: 10:30a. Followed by carry-in picnic at Washington Park. Info luskchamberofcommerce@yahoo.com, visitlusk.weebly.com, 307-334-2950.

PINE BLUFFS JUNE 11

Our Lady of Peace: 9a and 10a mass held by Father August and Father Lynz at Stations of the Cross, St. Mary’s Cathedral. Info www.ourladyofpeaceshrine.com

S A R AT O G A JUNE 16

Laura M and VIP Marketing: 4-8p, Laura M Gallery. Join us to celebrate 25 years of business in Saratoga and Wyoming. Food, fun and friends. Info morrow.laura@gmail.com.

SUNRISE JUNE 25

Sunrise Mine Guided Tour: 1-3p mine and town tour. Located 5 miles North of Guernsey on Hwy 270 to Hartville then East on Hwy 318 to Sunrise about 2 miles. Gates open at 11:30a. $20 for ages 19 and over, under 18 free. No-host lunch on site. Please no credit cards. Proceeds benefit the Sunrise Historic & Prehistoric Preservation Society (SHAPPS). Reservations not required. Info George Zeimens 307-575-2010.

TORRINGTON JUNE 15 & 29

Music on Main Free Summer Concert Series: 6p, 21st Avenue and East A Street in City parking lot, free. Music, food, drinks, and family fun. Info Goshen Chamber 307-532-3879 Ext. 1.

W H E AT L A N D JUNE 10-12

5th Annual Treasures Along the Platte: Street Markets, Antiques and Garage Sales throughout Platte County. Free. Info 307-322-6232.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

02 | NORTHEAST

DUBOIS JUNE 1

Ava Community Art Center: Info 307-682-9133, avacenter.org.

Kids Corner - What About Owls?: 10a, Dubois Museum. Hosted by Renee Schell from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. During her program about owls, she will have a live great horned owl and be ready to discuss all things owl, including their adaptations and special features. $3 per person, advanced registration appreciated. Info 307-455-2284.

HULETT

JUNE 3

B U F FA L O

THURSDAYS

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

GILLETTE

ONGOING

JUNE 11-12

75th Annual Rodeo: 1:30p. NRCA, WRA and local event. Parade at 10a Sat. Hulett Rodeo Queen Reunion. Info 307-467-5929, RodeoHulettWy.com.

MOORCROFT

JUNE 3-5

Crook County Country Junkin: Info Neal 406-794-8393. JUNE 4

Moorcroft Chamber of Commerce Safety Day: Info Elaine 307-660-4995. JUNE 7

Lego Man at the Museum: 10a. Info Lacey 307-756-3232. ONGOING

West Texas Trail Museum: Now open year-round 9a-5p, Mon-Fri. Info 307-756-9300.

NEWCASTLE

FRIDAYS

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

UPTON

ONGOING

Bingo at Upton Senior Center: 6:30p, $1 for 5 cards, Info Gary at 307-468-9262.

03| NORTHWEST CODY

JUNE 25

11th Annual PEAKS to Conga: Bicycle ride and fundraiser helps cancer patients in the Bighorn Basin. Ride starts in Cody and ends in Shell. Followed by a day in Shell for family friendly fun including silent auction, raffle ticket drawing, live music, food vendors, arts and craft vendors, face painting, petting zoo and more! Help support the cause and have some fun. Register and info peakstoconga.org, 307-272-8766.

“First Friday”: 9a-5p, Dubois Museum. Children admitted for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Info 307-455-2284. JUNE 8

Kids Corner - Create Your Own Fossil: 10a, Dubois Museum. Presented by Russell Hawley from the Tate Geological Museum. We’ll discuss what a fossil is and learn how they form under the ground over the years; meet the trilobites and discover how scientists figure out their lifestyles and their classifications; and show you how to make your own fossil casts using plasticene and molding plaster. $3 per person, advanced registration appreciated. Info 307-455-2284.

JUNE

eat it with homemade bread! This Kids Corner event will look at how simple things like bread and butter were made long before grocery stores supplied our food. $3 per person, advanced registration appreciated. Info 307-455-2284. JUNE 10-AUGUST 19

Dubois Friday Night Rodeos: Rodeo starts at 7:30p, Clarence Allison Memorial Arena. $15 General Admission, $10 Kids 6-12, 5 & under free. Info 307-710-7080.

GREYBULL

JUNE 9-11

Days of 49: Friday Rodeo, Saturday parade, duck races, car show, fashion show, art walk, street dance. Sunday drag races at Greybull Airport. Info 307-765-2100.

LANDER JUNE 3

“First Friday”: 9a-5p, Pioneer Museum. Children admitted for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Info 307-332-3339. JUNE 10-12

68th Annual Wyoming State Historical Society Trek: The trek will take participants on a behind

the scenes look at the county’s unique history through the towns of Lander, Dubois, and South Pass City. Everyone is invited to participate, society members and nonmembers alike. Pre-registration required at wyshs.org or linda@wyshs.org. JUNE 16

The Snow Chi Minh Trail, the History of I-80: 7p, Pioneer Museum. Presenter John Waggoner teaches at the University of Wyoming and wrote an entertaining book about the history of I-80. Learn about the history of the infamous route across the state we all love to hate. This program is free and open to the public. Info 307-332-3339. JUNE 18

Lander Area Petroglyphs: 10a, Pioneer Museum. Visitors will learn about some of the Native American rock art on this trek with local archeologist Jim Stewart. Approx. 1 1/2-mile walking on uneven ground. $10 per person, meet at the museum. Info 307-332-3339.

JUNE 15

Kids Corner - What’s Your Bug?: 10a, Dubois Museum. Have fun catching and identifying bugs while playing educational games. $3 per person, advanced registration appreciated. Info 307-455-2284. JUNE 18

Western Fremont County Humane Society Dog Washes: 11a-1p on the lawn at St Thomas Episcopal Church. Donations accepted. Info Mary Ellen 307-455-2182. JUNE 22

Kids Corner - Junior Trailblazing: 10a, Dubois Museum. Learn how to follow written directions and use a compass while learning about hiking safety tips along the way. Prepare to walk and be in whatever weather we have. $3 per person, advanced registration appreciated. Info 307-455-2284. JUNE 29

Kids Corner - Butter Time: 10a, Dubois Museum. Learn how to make your own butter then MAY 2022

WHAT’S HAPPENING

R I V E RTO N JUNE 1

Fremont County Postal History: 6-7:30p, Riverton Museum. Free. Join speaker Stan Grove and discover the fascinating history of the postal service in Fremont County as you trace the evolution of the postal service from the Oregon Trail and Pony Express to the more modern post offices like those we have today. Info 307-856-2665. JUNE 3

“First Friday”: 9a-5p, Riverton Museum. Children admitted for free when accompanied by a paying adult. JUNE 11

Adventure Trek - Trails Through Fremont County: 9a-2p, Riverton Museum. $10 per person. Explore some of the famous historical trails that passed through Fremont County. This trek will involve both driving and walking; we will caravan to specific sites and do some walking along the historic trail systems. Participants are responsible for their own transportation, water and sack lunch. Reservations are required. Info 307-856-2665. JUNE 25

Children’s Exploration Series Mapping Adventure: 2-4p, Riverton Museum. Free. Learn about maps, how early travelers used them and how you can still use maps today. Once you master your own techniques, you can show off your newly learned skills during our mapping adventure! Info 307-856-2665.

MEETEETSE JUNE 4

Willie Le Clair Presentation: 10a, Meeteetse Museums, free. Willie is a presenter and rodeo announcer, sharing some of the Native American heritage and spirituality he has experienced. He is an enrolled member of the Eastern Shoshone Tribe of the Wind River Indian Reservation in Wyoming and makes his home on a small ranch near Riverton. Info programs@ meeteetsemuseums.org. JUNE 18

Stone Tool Knapping Workshop: 10a, Meeteetse Museums, free. Join Dr. Lawrence Todd for a hands-on workshop as you learn how to knap stone tools. Info programs@ meeteetsemuseums.org. 36

MAY 2022

JUNE

JUNE 18

THERMOPOLIS

The Whit Ranch Tour: 10a, free, pre-registration required. Join us as we explore the history of the Whit Ranch. Tour guided by Joe Thomas. Info 307-868-2423, programs@ meeteetsemuseums.org.

JUNE 3

JUNE 18

JUNE 3-5

Hot Springs Livestock Show: HSC Fairgrounds. Info info@ thermopolischamber.org, 307-864-3192. WYNPS Native Plant Society Convention: Community Hall. Info info@thermopolischamber.org, 307-864-3192.

Taste of Meeteetse: Info meeteetseewy.com, 307-868-2454. JUNE 24

Star Party at the Upper Sunshine Reservoir: 8p, free. Join Alan Corey with the Casper Astronomy Club for a Star Party at the Upper Sunshine Reservoir boat ramp. We ask that you arrive prior to dark so vehicle headlights won’t interfere with the viewing of constellations and any meteors we might see. Info programs@ meeteetsemuseums.org.

JUNE 4

Thermopolis Brewfest: 4p-8p, downtown. Info info@ thermopolischamber.org, 307-864-3192. JUNE 11-12 SUBMIT AN EVENT

JUNE 18-19

JUNE 25

Genealogy Workshop: 10a, Meeteetse Museum, free. Join Jen Baldwin, Research Specialist for Findmypast, as we work through the foundational skills needed to get started in genealogy and investigate the potential for unraveling your own family stories. Pre-registration opens May 3 for non-members. Members can register starting Apr 19. Register by calling 307-868-2423 or stopping by in person. Info programs@ meeteetsemuseums.org. JUNE 29

Colonel William D. Pickett by Brian Beauvais: 10a, Meeteetse Museum, free. Brian Beauvais with the Park County Archives will be presenting on Colonel William D. Pickett, a confederate Civil War veteran who made his home in Meeteetse soon after Count Otto Franc founded the Pitchfork Ranch. Pickett was a sportsman, rancher, and politician. Info programs@ meeteetsemuseums.org.

SEND COMPLETE INFORMATION BY JUNE 15! Please send events occurring in the month of August by June 15, and September by July 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.

Look for more events at wyomingrea.org/news.

26th Wind River Flywheeler Antique Engine and Tractor Show: 10a-1:30p. Located at park at the east side of town. Free. There will be craft vendors, engines and tractors, and a 1913 50 hp Case Steam Engine. For kids thereis a Barrel Train, Pedal Tractors and a Sand Box. Food vendors and music (Packin the Mail) will be available for lunch, including Dutch oven cooking. Info Carlta Witthar cmaule@ wyoming.com. Vendors call Cindy Leonhardt at 307-856-6804.

Hot Spot Car Rally: HSC State Park. Info info@thermopolischamber.org, 307-864-3192. JUNE 24

Thermopolis Cowboy Rendezvous PRCA Rodeo Performance: Tough Enough to Wear Pink Night, 7p, HS County Fairgrounds. Info info@thermopolischamber.org, 307-864-3192. JUNE 25

Patriotic Parade: 10a, downtown. Info info@thermopolischamber.org, 307-864-3192. Patriotic Night: 7p, HS County Fairgrounds. Info info@thermopolischamber.org, 307-864-3192.

04 | SOUTHWEST LY M A N

SHOSHONE JUNE 11-12

WJRA Rodeo: HSC Fairgrounds. Info info@thermopolischamber.org, 307-864-3192.

QUESTIONS & SUBMISSIONS:

 wren@

wyomingrea.org

 [307] 286-8140  214 W. Lincolnway

Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001

 wyomingrea.org/

wren-submissions

THURSDAYS

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

M O U N TA I N V I E W 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. WEDNESDAYS

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

COUNTRY COOKS

APRIL

THERE WAS A MISTAKE IN THE INGREDIENTS LISTED FOR THE VANILLA WAFER DESSERT IN THE APRIL ISSUE OF WREN. WE APOLOGIZE FOR THIS ERROR.

VANILLA WAFER DESSERT 1 CUP MILK

1 PKG PLAIN KNOX GELATIN

1 TBS CORN STARCH

1 CAN CRUSHED PINEAPPLE

2 EGGS

1 CUP WHIPPED HEAVY CREAM

3/4 CUP SUGAR

1 PKG VANILLA WAFERS

PINCH OF SALT

MARASCHINO CHERRIES, FOR TOPPING

1/4 TSP ALMOND FLAVORING

Separate egg whites and yolks. Combine egg yolks, milk, corn starch, sugar and salt. Cook this slowly and stir until it gets to a custard consistency. Soak 1 package plain Knox Gelatin in ½ cup water for 5 minutes. Then add the cooked mixture to the gelatin and cool. When wobbly, add 1 small can crushed pineapple mixed with 1 cup whipped heavy cream and 2 beaten egg whites. Place layer of rolled fine vanilla wafers, then a layer of mixture repeating these two layers in a trifle bowl ending with a layer of the finely rolled vanilla wafers. Place maraschino cherries on top. Chill until served. NANCY LANPHIER

LINGLE

CLASSIFIEDS WREN CLASSIFIED ADS ARE $0.75 PER SIX CHARACTERS | CONTACT:  SHAWNA@GOLINDEN.COM

FOR SALE

WANTED

New & Used Coal Stokers, parts, service & advice. Available for most makes. Thanks. 307-754-3757.

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.

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 electric train set for Moorcroft museum. CB&Q, BNSF or earlier. Please contact (307) 756-3386.

We Pay Cash For Mineral & Oil/Gas Interests producing & non-producing. 800-733-8122. Wanted CJ or Wrangler reasonably priced. Any condition but rusted. 512-797-1664.

RAINBOW TROUT

CUTTHROAT TROUT

 970-221-3232 EXT 22

BROWN TROUT

LAKE TROUT

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. Workshop at SageRidge Ranch. June 11-12. Felting, Spinning, Weaving, Beading, Dolls, and TaiChi. Good food and companionship. Come enjoy the weekend with us in Clearmont. Visit sageridge. net or email sageridgeranchwyo@gmail.com

PUZZLE ANSWERS

Fishin’ for Names PUZZLE ON PAGE 25

GOLDEN TROUT

BROOK TROUT MAY 2022

ENLIGHTEN US

PICKUPS

BY WALT GASSON I don’t remember a time without a pickup truck in my life. They’ve come in all different makes and models, all different colors and configurations. Heaven knows there have been differing degrees of dependability. But there have always been pickup trucks.

A lot of pickups have come

But for me it was the original adventure and gone since then. Some of machine. It was the truck that took us to the places them were pretty bad. Some that we loved. We hunted of them were great. But all and fished and explored the seldom-traveled of them transported me to quarters of southwest Wyoming in that truck. places I hadn’t been before. And sometimes we got stuck. With all of an inch and a half of ground clearance, the old man’s truck got hung up on rocks, sagebrush, snus can lids and anything else that stuck up more than a fraction of an inch from the desert floor. But he loved it all the same. The next one was better, or maybe the old man had a little more money to devote to it. With the red 1962 GMC came real snow tires on the rear and maybe just a touch more ground clearance. It had green dashboard lights, and if I live to be as old as Methuselah I will always remember my dad’s face in that unearthly green light. He had a Salem held loosely in his lips and the smell of rain on sagebrush filled the cab on Saturday evenings when we were headed home on the White Mountain Road. We always listened to the Spanish language programming on KVRS in Rock Springs. To this day, I love ranchero music and I’d give almost anything to be in that truck with him again. It was the last one he would own. He died in 1967.

y dad had that connection with the first truck in my life. It was a dark green 1954 Chevy 3100, and he loved that truck with all his heart. It wasn’t anything fancy. Pickup trucks weren’t fancy back then. It was simple – two-wheel drive and three on the column, with a bench seat and the ever-present smell of hot oil and dust.

After he passed, my mom sold the truck because it held too many memories. But she must have recognized the need for the place it held in our lives, because she replaced it with a red 1968 GMC. My mom didn’t make many bad decisions, but that was probably one. It had four-wheel drive, and that fact alone probably accounted for the premature gray in her hair. The truth is it was not a great truck. But it became my truck, and between bad engineering and worse teenage judgement things went south regularly. I went fishing and got stuck. I went hunting and broke the front axle. I went to check my bobcat traps and got stranded. I was a lonely teenage broncin’ buck with an attitude

and a pickup truck, but somewhere in the process I learned. I saved the money from my summer job to buy a winch and some hardcore tires. I spent the money from the bobcat pelts on oil and gasoline. I learned every two-track road from Middle Piney Lake to Vermillion Creek. And I learned that like generations of Gassons before and after me, there were deep roots that connected me to the land and the people of my home country. College came and went, and I went to work for an outfit that gave me a pickup to drive. To be honest, I think I may have had a reputation for being a little hard on them. It may or may not have been deserved. But after several unfortunate incidents–the propane truck on the cattleguard, the unexpected washout in the two-track out in the Powder River country and the mysterious incident of the semi-detached driver’s side door, among others–one of my colleagues made me a beautiful western belt with my nickname on the back: “CRASH.” Still, I managed to cover the countryside from the Middle Fork of Powder River to the Little Missouri. And I learned to love the people and critters of that vast landscape. More importantly, I learned that if you were honest and hardworking and helped people when they needed it, it was a great place to be. A lot of pickups have come and gone since then. Some of them were pretty bad. Some of them were great. But all of them transported me to places I hadn’t been before. Not in a literal sense, though that’s true too. But more importantly, they transported my heart and my mind in a metaphoric sense to a better place. Each of those trucks is a milepost along my life’s journey, an indicator of personal growth in a hard and windy place. Many of the best lessons about life in Wyoming have come to me in a pickup truck. And that’s just fine with me. W Walt Gasson is a fourth-generation Wyoming native and the director of endorsed businesses for Trout Unlimited. MAY 2022

PLAY OUTSIDE AND SUPPORT EVERY DOMAIN OF DEVELOPMENT! Here’s an easy way to get outside with your kids that just happens to encourage their creativity, practice motor skills, and develop their attention spans! Your kids will also be proud of what they create - and you will, too.

STAINED GLASS SIDEWALK ART You will need: Painter’s Tape

Sidewalk Chalk

instructions: 1

Using the tape, make a geometric pattern on a section of sidewalk.

Have your kids color inside the pattern.

When they’re done, peel the tape off the sidewalk.

Choose a new section of sidewalk and help your kids create a different pattern, color it, and peel off the tape again.

Repeat until you run out of sidewalk!

WANT



MORE?

Find fun activities to do with your kids at

wyqualitycounts.org/wren

All WY Quality Counts activities are supported by the Wyoming Early Learning Standards as well as the Domains of Development, which include: Communication

Curious Minds

Sense of Self & Relationships

Strong & Healthy Bodies

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.

This month s activity:

POMP M PLAY