Wyoming Rural Electric News December 2023

WYOMING

DEC 2023

RURAL ELECTRIC NEWS

17

WHERE WE ARE AND WHERE WE’RE HEADED

WYOMING’S WORKFORCE 24

38

COUNT, WATCH & HELP THE BIRDS

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2023 D E C E M B E R

17 CENTERPIECE

ON THE COVER

Wyoming’s Workforce

YOUTH 06 CO-OP M A M A B L U E B E R RY

BY CAYLA TAYLOR

Where We Are and Where We’re Headed STORY BY MAGGIE YORK

JUST FOR FUN CORNER 16 KIDS’ M O U N TA I N L I O N

22 PA S S A I C :

BOOK GIVEAWAY T H E F O RG OT T E N COMMUNITY I N S H E R I DA N C O U N T Y, W Y O M I N G

COMPILED BY LELAND H. SANDERS

23 E V E R G R E E N PUZZLE

TREE ID

BY KENDRA SPANJER

28

SPOTLIGHT 26 CO-OP C LY D E W O O L E RY :

LESSONS FROM THE SADDLE

We do our best to keep Wyoming the world’s best kept secret.

But sometimes we might do too good of a job.

Turn to page 17 to learn more about Wyoming’s current workforce.

16

FEATURES

24

BY JACKIE DOROTHY

14

FROM OUR READERS

ESSAYS & ANECDOTES

STATE NEWS & EVENTS

COOKS 28 COUNTRY S A U S AG E

NOTES 04 WREA RELIABLE POWER

08 TOWN TALES 09 GRASSROOTS NETWORK 12 THE CURRENT 14 COWBOY STATE BUZZ 34 WHAT’S HAPPENING

29 M Y W I N T E R F R I E N D PEN TO PAPER

BY MARIE HAINES

PICTURE IT 30 JUST WOODS

F O R T O DAY — A N D TO M O R ROW

BY SHAWN TAYLOR

ON THE RANGE 24 HOME CO U N T, WATC H & HELP THE BIRDS

BY GAYLE M. IRWIN

US 38 ENLIGHTEN CHRISTMAS 1967

BY WALT GASSON

WREA NOTES

I hate to “mail it in” for my last column of the year but with the holidays upon us and lots of travel for work and family and hockey, and with my deadline looming, I found this article from our national organization, the National Rural Electric Association, that focuses on reliable power. This is an issue that has garnered a lot of attention over the past several years and with the push to electrify everything (cars, stoves, etc.) while at the same time forcing the closure of many baseload power plants across the country, a perfect storm figuratively and literally could be brewing. So with that somber message, I want to wish you all a very Happy Holidays and a Merry Christmas, and we’ll see you in 2024.

R ELIABLE POWER FOR T O DAY — A N D T O M O R R O W Ringing in a new year sparks a sense of renewed hope and optimism about the future. As for me, it’s a time to reflect on where we are and where we’re going. At the heart of this reflection, I think about ways we can better serve you, the members of Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives.

Co-ops across Wyoming and the country are always looking ahead, exploring ways to innovate and utilize new technologies to improve services. As our nation increasingly relies on electricity to power the economy, keeping the lights on has never been more important.

We’re committed to powering––and empowering––our communities at a cost local families and businesses can afford.

One critical component of reliable power is the mix of energy resources used to generate the electricity that keeps the lights on in rural Wyoming. While folks debate the merits of and need for more renewable energy, it’s hard to debate that renewables alone will keep the lights on.

Baseload generation is a must if we want to continue to thrive as a state and a country.

Advanced metering technology, also known as AMI, enables two-way communication between the co-op and consumers. In the event of a power outage, AMI helps pinpoint the exact location of the outage and can even analyze damaged or tampered meters. AMI helps save money with realtime data, and ultimately improves power reliability for our rural cooperatives.

Proactive tree trimming is another way we limit service disruptions.

Scheduled trimming keeps power lines clear from overgrown limbs that are likely to fall. Drone inspections of lines and vegetation have allowed us to reduce labor and equipment costs while bolstering reliability. Through the use of small drones, we can accurately monitor the health and growth of trees and identify potential problems. As technology advancements become more accessible, we anticipate using advanced mapping software to better maintain the environment while providing more reliable service.

Finally, one of the best methods for improving our services to you is monitoring trends and leading practices from other electric co-ops in Wyoming and across the country. Learning from other co-ops is one of the many benefits of the cooperative business model because for us, it’s about cooperation, not competition.

SH AWN TAY LO R

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

FROM THE ARCHIVE DRIVE-IN MEMORIES PHOTO BY ELIZABETH CHILDRESS, UPTON

M

A

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THE WREN MAGAZINE WYOMING RURAL ELECTRIC NEWS The official publication of the Wyoming Rural Electric Association The WREN Magazine, Wyoming Rural Electric News, volume 69, number 11, December 2023 (ISSN 1098-2876) is published monthly except for January for $22 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 32,298 for 11 months ending September 2023. 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 Becky Freismuth — 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 – Scott Anderson Niobrara Electric, Lusk – J.D. Wasserburger 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 $22 per year, Single copies $2 each

ADVERTISING To purchase call (307) 996-6552.

OFFICE OF WREN OWNER 2312 Carey Ave., Cheyenne, WY 82001

ADDRESS CHANGES Please contact your local cooperative to update your address.

Paid subscribers contact publisher.

PUBLISHER 307-286-8140 wren@wyomingrea.org

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.

PRINTED WITH VEGETABLE INK

YOUNG CREATIVES

CO-OP YOUTH

Mama Blueberry

THANK YOU, YOUNG CREATIVES!

The painting is named after a sweet Jersey milk cow we once had.

CAYLA TAYLOR

10 YEARS OLD | TORRINGTON

WREN magazine would like to thank all of the young creatives who submitted their work to be featured this year. We are impressed by your talent and we admire the courage it takes to put your work and yourself out for the world to see. Thank you for allowing us to share in your creativity!

BASIN ELECTRIC

RELIABILITY

POWER YOU CAN A LW AY S D E P E N D O N At Basin Electric, we understand that life doesn’t stop when the going gets tough. No matter the season or storm our members face, reliable and affordable electricity for our members’ homes, schools, and businesses is our mission.

We’ll do everything we can to keep fans running, the lights on, and the coffee brewing.

Reliable Energy for Our Way of Life.

TOWN TALES

Town Tales A COMMUNITY ESTABLISHED BY CHOICE , NAMED BY CHANCE A SHORT HISTORY OF BUFFALO, WYOMING

FROM WYOMING HISTORICAL SOCIETY WYSHS.ORG

SUBMITTED BY SYLVIA BRUNER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, JIM GATCHELL MEMORIAL MUSEUM, BUFFALO

T

he town of Buffalo began to form as a cohesive community in 1879, as a response to the establishment of Fort McKinney, a frontier military post built next to the Bighorn Mountains to offer protection to the travelers and setters in the region. Being located just outside the military reservation allowed for saloons and stores to spring up, which attracted the business of the post soldiers. Two of the earliest businesses were the Trabing Store (1879) and the Occidental Hotel (1880), the latter still in operation today.

Main Street, Buffalo, Wyoming looking north, estimated to be around 1900 or later as the Buffalo Pharmacy is visible on the left.

An 1883 map of the town shows a smattering of businesses such as general stores, livery stables, a drugstore, barbershop, newspaper, dentist and bank counterbalanced by at least eight saloons. The founding years of Buffalo were assuredly wild and woolly! However, by 1884 the Lone Star Dance Hall had been razed and the county courthouse built, demonstrating the modern and organized approach many citizens were taking to establish the town as a proper county seat.

The name “Buffalo” was chosen in true Old-West style of chance!

During an event at the Occidental Saloon, those present wrote their name choices on slips of paper and tossed them into a hat. Some sources say that the winning “Buffalo” entry was submitted by Will Hart of Buffalo, New York and some say it was submitted by Alvin J. McCray of Buffalo, New York. Either way, the moniker stuck.

Buffalo’s Main Street used to be the only place in the U.S. where it was legal to make a U-turn on a bridge of a state highway (AKA, Main Street/ Hwy 87) at Clear Creek, which runs through the heart of downtown. Although not true any longer, many visitors and locals alike seem to think it still might be.

Buffalo’s outlying ranches and homesteads became the epicenter of the infamous Johnson County Cattle War events of the early 1890s.

The violent and politically backed episode in history influenced Wyoming law and development, and western pop culture. Readers of “Shane” and “The Virginian” will notice common threads and themes between truth and fiction.

8

DEC 2023

DID YOU KNOW?

THE TOWN NAME, “BUFFALO,” WAS DRAWN OUT OF A HAT!

GRASSROOTS NETWORK

WREA Seeks Nominations for NRECA Director THE WYOMING RURAL ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION NOMINATING COMMITTEE IS ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR CANDIDATES TO REPRESENT WYOMING ON THE NATIONAL RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION’S REGION VII STANDING COMMITTEES. Region VII includes the Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas and Nebraska rural electric associations.

HOW IT WORKS Region VII members (as a whole) have two representatives on each of the three committees: 1] Regulations 2] Legislative 3] Cooperative Management and Employee Issues

Per the WREA’s agreement with the other three states in Region VII to rotate the six seats, Wyoming will be accepting nominations for one seat on the Cooperative Management, Employment and Community Committee to start serving February of 2024.

MAIL YOUR NOMINATIONS BY JANUARY 15, 2024!

Committees generally meet once a year.

A per diem is paid and travel expenses are reimbursed.

Members and employees from any Wyoming co-op are eligible.

Committee members will be chosen by the WREA board at the annual NRECA Wyoming Membership Meeting on

FEBRUARY 15, 2024.

Those interested in serving or nominating someone should submit names in writing to: Nominating Committee, WREA, 2312 Carey Ave., Cheyenne, WY, 82001. Mail by January 15, 2024.

Include the name of the nominee, mailing address and phone number.

DEC 2023

9

UPGRADE TO ELECTRICITY AND SAVE IN YOUR HOME Make the switch to electricity and keep money in your pocket with more efficient household appliances and systems. From heat pumps to electric vehicles, these proven technologies have the potential to run your home and life more simply, efficiently and cost-effectively.

LEARN MORE AT WWW.TRISTATE.COOP/ELECTRIFY-AND-SAVE Tri-State is a not-for-profit power supplier to cooperatives and public power districts in Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming.

YOUR HOME, ELECTRIFIED HEATING & COOLING WITH HEAT PUMPS According to the U.S. Department of Energy, when paired with proper insulation, an electric heat pump can save over 30 percent on your heating and cooling bills compared to conventional HVAC systems. Here are some advantages of a heat pump: • One system to heat your home (even in sub-zero temperatures) and cool during warmer months • Eliminate potential carbon monoxide exposure from combustion byproducts • Costs substantially less to heat your home than propane or electric baseboard heat

POWER UP YOUR GARDENING TOOLS Electric garden tools can last longer and are emissions-free, meaning you’ll smell the scents of summer, not the smell of exhaust. Plus, with modern technology, they are just as effective as gas-powered alternatives. Just charge the battery and go!

• Low maintenance – no oil changes or need to treat fuel, change spark plugs or filters.

• No need to purchase and store gasoline • Electric models are lightweight and easy to handle

SAVE WITH AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) Sales of light-duty electric vehicles rose by 43% in 2020. On average, EVs have a lower cost of operation over their lifespan, and buyers are taking notice.

• Less maintenance • Increased savings compared to gasoline • Fun to drive because of torque

REBATES FOR YOUR HOME Contact your local electric co-op or public power district to find out more on available rebates and incentives

THE CURRENT

NORTH AMERICAN ELECTRIC RELIABILITY COUNCILS (NERC)

2023-24 Winter Reliability Assessment

WECC

A RECENT REPORT RELEASED BY NORTH AMERICAN ELECTRIC RELIABILITY COUNCILS (NERC) TITLED THE 2023–2024 WINTER RELIABILITY ASSESSMENT (WRA) IDENTIFIES, ASSESSES AND REPORTS ON AREAS OF CONCERN REGARDING THE RELIABILITY OF THE NORTH AMERICAN BULK POWER SYSTEM (BPS) FOR THE UPCOMING WINTER SEASON. Electricity is a key component of the fabric of modern society and the Electric Reliability Organization (ERO) Enterprise serves to strengthen that fabric.

The vision for the ERO Enterprise, which is comprised of NERC and the regional entities, is a highly reliable, resilient and secure BPS with the mission to “assure the effective and efficient reduction of risks to the reliability and security of the grid.”

The WRA report covers the upcoming three-month winter period of December through February and provides an evaluation of the generation resource and transmission system adequacy necessary to meet projected winter peak demands and operating reserves, and also identifies potential reliability issues of interest and regional risks. In addition, the WRA presents peak electricity demand and supply changes and highlights any unique regional challenges or expected conditions that might affect the reliability of the BPS. Wyoming is a part of the WECC-Northwest Regional Entity, which is, geographically, the largest and most diverse Regional Entity, serving an area of nearly 1.8 million square miles and more than 82 million customers.

WECC-Northwest report data shows expected resources meet operating reserve requirements under normal peak-demand scenarios. However, abovenormal peak load and outage conditions could result in the need to employ operating mitigations.

12

DEC 2023

MRO TEXAS RE RF SERC NPCC

KEY REPORT FINDINGS 1. A large portion of the North American BPS is at risk of insufficient electricity supplies during peak winter conditions.

2. Generator fuel supplies remain at risk during extreme, long-duration cold weather events. Fuel assurance is vitally important to meeting winter electricity demand across North America.

3. Load forecasting in winter is growing in complexity.

Underestimating demand is a risk to reliability in extreme cold temperatures.

4. Curtailment of electricity transfers to areas in need during periods of high regional demand is a growing reliability concern.

5. New cold weather Reliability Standards in place at the start of the 2023–2024 winter are aimed at improving coordination between Generator Owners/Operators and BPS Operators.

6. Industry responses to NERC’s Level 3 Alert - Cold Weather Preparations for Extreme Weather Events–III indicate that generator winter preparations are on a positive trend, but freezing temperatures remain a concern for some generators.

TO REDUCE THE RISKS OF ENERGY SHORTFALLS ON THE BPS THIS WINTER, NERC

3.

BAs should be cognizant of the potential for short-term load forecasts to underestimate load in extreme cold weather events and be prepared to take early action to implement protocols and procedures for managing potential reserve deficiencies.

4.

RCs and BAs should implement generator fuel surveys to monitor the adequacy of fuel supplies.

They should prepare their operating plans to manage potential supply shortfalls and take proactive steps for generator readiness, fuel availability, load curtailment and sustained operations in extreme conditions.

5.

State and provincial regulators can assist grid owners and operators in advance of and during extreme cold weather by supporting requested environmental and transportation waivers as well as public appeals for electricity and natural gas conservation.

RECOMMENDS THE FOLLOWING:

1.

2.

RCs, BAs and TOPs in the elevated risk areas identified in the key findings should review seasonal operating plans and the protocols for communicating and resolving potential supply shortfalls in anticipation of potentially high generator outages and extreme demand levels. Operators should be trained and familiar with manual load shedding plans prior to winter and review procedures in advance of severe winter weather.

TOPs, BAs and GOs should implement the essential actions identified in the NERC Level 3 alert, Cold Weather Preparations for Extreme Weather Events–III, and should take recommended weatherization steps prior to winter.

DEC 2023

13

COWBOY STATE BUZZ

New Film Tracks Animal Migrations FROM WYOMING MIGRATION INITIATIVE

In and Out of Grand Teton National Park

“ANIMAL TRAILS: REDISCOVERING GRAND TETON MIGRATIONS” IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR ONLINE STREAMING, AFTER SCREENING IN GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK DURING THE SUMMER OF 2023.

The film, produced in collaboration with Grand Teton National Park, documents more than a decade of migration research. It reveals how the mule deer and pronghorn that summer in Jackson Hole actually depend on habitats up to 190 miles away from the park boundaries.

In response, people have joined together to steward these migrations on public and private lands across Idaho, Wyoming and the Wind River Indian Reservation.

PHOTOS TAKEN FROM THE “ANIMAL TRAILS: REDISCOVERING GRAND TETON MIGRATIONS” FILM

The film has a run time of 25 minutes and will screen at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center and Colter Bay Museum in Grand Teton National Park during the summer 2024 season. The Wyoming Migration Initiative is working to screen the film at an additional location in the Jackson area this winter.

Ways to watch the film: VIMEO:

vimeo.com/migrationinitiative/AnimalTrails

YOUTUBE:

bit.ly/WatchAnimalTrails

VISIT SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS:

Facebook: facebook.com/migrationinitiative Instagram: instagram.com/migrationinitiative X (Twitter): twitter.com/wyo_migrations

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: migrationinitiative.org

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DEC 2023

COWBOY STATE BUZZ

2024 Wyoming Wildlife Calendar Now Available

FROM WYOMING GAME & FISH DEPARTMENT

THE CALENDAR, WHICH SERVES AS THE NOVEMBER ISSUE OF WYOMING WILDLIFE MAGAZINE, INCLUDES 12 ORIGINAL WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHS FROM ACROSS THE COWBOY STATE.

About Wyoming Wildlife Magazine Wyoming Wildlife is published 12 times a year for anglers, hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. Its pages are full of the wild things and wild places that make Wyoming incomparable.

Call (800) 710-8345 or go online to subscribe for $14.95 for 12 issues.

Marvel at the charismatic and unique animals that call Wyoming home in the 2024 Wyoming Wildlife magazine calendar. Copies are available for purchase at the Wyoming Game & Fish Store at 5400 Bishop Blvd. in Cheyenne or online.

For only $10 it makes an excellent stocking stuffer.

Featured photographs were taken by Wyoming residents and visitors who captured images unique to the state. The calendar also highlights important Game & Fish deadlines — great for a hunter who doesn’t want to miss application dates.

Photos for the calendar were selected from submissions to the 2023 Wyoming Wildlife calendar photo contest. The photography contest for the 2025 calendar will open in the spring of 2024.

ILLUSTRATION BY NICK WILLIAMS

KIDS’ CORNER

www.wyobiodiversity.org

LITTLE WYOMING

THE MOUNTAIN

Also known as puma, cougar or panther – the mountain lion is the most widespread large mammal in the Americas, ranging from the Canadian Yukon down to the tip of Chile. But good luck trying to see one in the wild! These cats are extremely secretive and usually solitary – except when they have kittens! Female cougars are very devoted and attentive mothers.

LION CUED CATS

Mountain lion kittens can be born during any month of the year, but births tend to peak during June-August. This happens to coincide with the time period when baby deer and elk – the primary prey of mountain lions – are most vulnerable and susceptible to predation, making it easier for mother lions to provide for their young. Now that’s some family planning!

CAMOUFLAGED KITTENS Mountain lion kittens are born completely helpless – they can’t see or hear, and don’t have any teeth! At around 10 days old, they open their eyes for the first time, their ears unfurl, and teeth begin to erupt from their gums. During this vulnerable time, the kittens are completely dependent upon their mother. She will leave the kittens alone in the den while she goes out to hunt, sometimes for days at a time. While she’s gone, their best defense is to stay put! They even have spots to help them blend in with their surroundings.

FUN FACT 16

DEC 2023

CLUMSY KITTENS Mountain lions have a reputation for being stealthy, skilled predators.

But they don’t start out that way!

Mountain lion kittens are very clumsy, inefficient hunters. Females will spend up to two years with their kittens, teaching them to hunt before they are ready to venture out on their own. Deer and elk can be tough to catch and kill, so sometimes mothers will wound the prey first and then deliver it to her cubs so they can practice finishing the job on an easier target.

The scientific name of mountain lions is Puma concolor. In Latin, “concolor” means “of the same color,” a nod to the mostly uniform color of mountain lions – unlike the stripes and spots of other wild cats like leopards and tigers. Also unlike other wild cats, they cannot roar.

Instead, like house cats, mountain lions growl, hiss and purr.

CENTERPIECE

Wyoming’s workforce WHERE WE ARE AND WHERE WE’RE

BY MAGGIE YORK HEADED

We do our best to keep Wyoming the world’s best kept secret. But sometimes we might do too good of a job. Sometimes, Wyoming residents don’t have the opportunity to stay, work and live in this amazing place. We’ve had a hard time keeping businesses in business and standing up new businesses; we’ve had a hard time keeping our youth in-state to put down new roots and build the next generation of businesses.

WE MAY JOKE ABOUT NOT WANTING ANYONE TO COME INTO WYOMING, BUT WE DON’T WANT WYOMINGITES TO LEAVE, EITHER.

DEC 2023

17

While there are programs and people pushing the state forward, it’s still a complex issue. So, let’s look at some facts and consider things we have and what we do know.

THE FACTS The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services has several resources available for those seeking employment in the state. Furthermore, Robin Sessions Cooley, J.D., Director of Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS), said they have been busier than ever working on research and planning.

The most recent indepth data we have published at the industry level

DWS’ 2023 Wyoming Workforce Annual Report, produced by the Research & Planning (R&P) section of the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services in partnership with the Wyoming Workforce Development Council, “provides an overview of Wyoming’s economy and labor market during a period of growth from 2021 to 2022.”

• Driven by growth in the mining and leisure and hospitality sectors, Wyoming added more than 6,400 new jobs and $1.2 billion in total wages from 2021 to 2022.

2.4

• Most industries experienced job growth from 2021 to 2022.

• Leisure & Hospitality and Mining accounted for nearly half (48.2%) of all new jobs.

VIEW THE FULL REPORT HERE

Leisure & Hospitality

Professional & Business Services

Mining, including Oil & Gas

Retail Trade

5.1

702

995

1,537

KEY HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2023 WYOMING WORKFORCE ANNUAL REPORT

1,617

Department of Workforce Services Releases Reports on Wyoming’s Workforce and Labor Force Trends

NEW JOBS

In October, they released the 2023 Wyoming Labor Force Trends report. “It contains the most recent in-depth data we have published at the industry level,” Cooley said.

4.5

JOB % INCREASE

10.4

•

•

Wyoming added more than 6,300 jobs and $386.8 million in total wages over the year in the first quarter 2023.

This marked the eighth consecutive quarter of overthe-year job growth, and the first time Wyoming returned to pre-pandemic employment levels.

2.8

Nearly all industries showed substantial over-the-year employment gains.

533

557

846

1,259

KEY HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2023 WYOMING LABOR FORCE TRENDS REPORT

MORE JOBS

VIEW THE FULL REPORT HERE

8.0 JOB % INCREASE

1.6 Leisure & Hospitality

Professional & Business Services

Mining, including Oil & Gas

Construction

4.3

DWS also recently launched a new website, wyapprenticeships.com, that integrates Augmented Reality (AR) into the website to create a more interactive experience with the user.

Wyoming Innovation Partnership has recently been formed as a collaborative effort to align education and workforce development and support innovation, entrepreneurship and research to help drive Wyoming’s economy.

“The interactive site has something for everyone, and even has a pre-apprenticeship program for individuals aged 16-24, offering a pre-requisite training program to help people enter the workforce,” Cooley explained. DWS has included a QR code on many of their marketing materials to help community members access the apprenticeship site easily.

The WIP initiative, a component of Governor Mark Gordon’s economic development strategy, has already made substantial progress in its first of three phases.

HELPFUL PROGRAMS Wyoming Grown is a free program through the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services that connects individuals who have a desire to return to Wyoming with in-demand career opportunities. Touting Wyoming’s tenacious and independent spirit, accessible outdoor recreation, pro-business outlook, readily available career opportunities and no income tax, the program focuses on individuals returning to Wyoming for career opportunities. “However, if we have individuals reaching out on behalf of their business relocating to Wyoming, we would connect them with the right state and community resources to help them, and we would assist them where it’s relevant,” said Shaye Moon, Business Training and Support Unit Program Manager of Department of Workforce Services.

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DEC 2023

Phase I, which concluded in June of this year, focused on leveraging resources to find efficiencies across higher education institutions and, at the same time, supporting workforce gaps across the state including energy, entrepreneurship, healthcare, tourism and hospitality, digital infrastructure and technology, and partner infrastructure. You can read the Phase I report at wip.wyo.gov/reports.

The Workforce Development Training Fund’s (WDTF) Internship and Business Training Grants said they receive an overwhelming number of applications each month, however due to funding limitations, they are unable to grant applications to everyone who applies.

“In terms of industry and workforce trends, we see a wide variety of businesses apply for the DWS training grants.

However, we have noticed a growing demand for training in the Healthcare and Social Assistance industry, including behavioral health occupations,” Moon said.

“We also see quite a bit of interest from the Manufacturing, Finance and Insurance, Hospitality and Tourism, and Information Technology industries. We are specifically seeing this need within our Internship Grant and our Business Training Grant, which are the most heavily used grants under the Workforce Development Training Fund program.”

Together, Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives have given back almost $150 million to members and communities during the last 10 years.

466

For more information about how to apply visit bit.ly/DWS-TrainingGrants.

JOBS AT RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

STAYING ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

JOBS CREATED IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives are a vital part of our community. Our co-ops, including 11 electric utility cooperatives and three generation and transmission cooperatives, directly employ over 1,000 people statewide.

These jobs help support families and the communities we live and work in.

The Center for Business and Economic Analysis (CBEA) at the University of Wyoming recently completed a study of the economic benefits of Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives. Looking at employment and tax revenue data from 2021 and 2022, the CBEA reported millions in revenue from co-op employees.

LOOKING AHEAD The Business Training and Support Unit (BTSU) has been focusing on the youth workforce in Wyoming through the promotion of youth internships, pre-apprenticeships and registered apprenticeships.

1,085 $

45,544,032

PAYROLL TO EMPLOYEES

96,088,160

$

PERSONAL INCOME GENERATED

DWS pre-apprenticeship grant funding that will help students gain specific industry skills and prepare them to enter into a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

“This team educates high school students and teachers about apprenticeships as a long term and viable career pathway in Wyoming post-graduation,” Moon said.

The Workforce Development Training Fund (WDTF) currently has specific funding available for youth interns, ages 16-24, who are students. This funding is available to eligible Wyoming businesses who hire these youth interns and the grant funding assists the business by reimbursing up to a certain amount of the intern’s wages for a period of time.

Regardless of what you may hear, read or chat about with your neighbor, there is support and there are voices responding to Wyoming’s call to action to grow our economy and keep our youth here in Wyoming - from the Governor’s office to our local cooperatives to the neighbors next door. W

Also, the DWS apprenticeship team provides technical assistance in the development of Registered Apprenticeship Programs across the state and promotes

Maggie York is a sixth-generation Wyoming native. She grew up in Lander and has family roots across the state.

DEC 2023

21

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

PASSAIC:

The Forgotten Community in Sheridan County, Wyoming Backward Glance Series COMPILED BY LELAND H. SANDERS FOR THE CLEARMONT HISTORICAL GROUP “Passaic” relates the history of the community of Passaic, Wyoming. To really understand the history of a community, we believe it is interesting to tell the area’s early history, starting with its geological origins and a history of the original inhabitants, the Native Americans. “Passaic” conveys the story of the original European exploration of the area and the consequent conflicts between the Native Americans and the postCivil War U.S. military. Then, enter the early open range ranchers and the homesteaders, those hardy pioneers from primarily the Midwest and the eastern United States.

There will also be a few of the stories of the conflicts between the Cattle Barons of the day, the homesteaders and other ranchers, especially the sheep ranchers.

Chief among the acts designed to dispose of the vast areas of government land was the 1862 Homestead Act and the several other acts that followed. These acts enabled the settlement of the West and this area of interest.

ORDERING INFORMATION: 2023 | 306p. | $40 + shipping paperback ISBN: 979-8-218-17802-4 Publisher: Dimension Printing, LLC Available to purchase through Clearmont Historical Center: Clearmont Historical Center P.O. Box 222 Clearmont, WY 82835 clearmonthistory@gmail.com

WIN A Name: Phone:

OCTOBER ISSUE BOOK WINNER:

Address:

KENNETH CRUM OF ANNANDALE, VA

ENTRIES DUE BY

BY JANUARY 15 One entry per household, please.

22

DEC 2023

FREE COPY

 PASSAIC

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

 wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions

PUZZLE

Evergreen Tree ID

PINE

ne “packedles com e ets” o f 2, 3 in or 5

grows in a true r conifee shap

needles are flat

Come December, many of us set up a conifer in our home—a tradition that’s been associated with Christmas for nearly 500 years. Whether fresh or faux, your particular tree likely falls into one of three categories*: spruce, pine or fir. But how can you tell which is which?

The 12 puzzle pieces below belong in three 4-piece puzzles, each comprised of clues that will help you identify the main types of evergreens you encounter in Wyoming, in your living room, or in the Christmas aisle at your local retailer. You can cut the pieces out, or just mentally match them.

BY KENDRA SPANJER

SPRUCE

*FUN FACT!

cones are smooth and flexible

cones grow e up likle cand s flame

grow s ope an cano n p with y spac betw e bran een c level h s

re les a , needand stiff t re shor en squa oft

cones are stiff and woody

Hemlock, yew, cypress, arborvitae, juniper and cedar are exceptions that don’t follow these rules— but they’re also not common Christmas tree choices.

grow wide s branchelower s downtu , often rned

FIR

GPA E 36

STUMPED? UNWRAP THE ANSWERS! DEC 2023

23

HOME ON THE RANGE

Become a Community Scientist with Your Family: C O U N T, WAT C H & HELP THE BIRDS

BY GAYLE M. IRWIN

24

DEC 2023

PHOTOS BY GAYLE M. IRWIN

C

hickadees flit from the feeder to the hedge.

A small downy woodpecker clings to the side of the apple tree in search for tiny bugs while a male finch, crowned with light red cap, sips water from the electric water dish on our deck.

Observing the songbirds in my front and back yards brings a smile to my face, especially when winter takes hold.

Various bird species stay in Wyoming during the cold and snowy months. Bald eagles and great gray owls are among the large raptors that stay in the state in addition to waterfowl like mallards and Canada geese. Several small songbirds, including flickers, finches, pine siskins and chickadees also remain. Caring for those feathered friends that brave the snow and cold is a pleasant pastime for many, including my husband and me. We offer sunflower seeds in feeders, provide trees and bushes for shelter (and nutrition for those species that rely on such vegetation), and give water in non-freezing pans, all to help them survive Wyoming’s winter. We have done this for the nearly 25 years we’ve been together, and it’s a legacy from my family of origin.

Bird watching is a wonderful family activity, something easily done in front and back yards as well as in neighborhoods and communities, no matter the season of the year. Winter is

extra special though because the National Audubon Society hosts its annual Christmas Bird Count. The organization relies on volunteers, “community scientists,” to assist in this event and document sighting of various species. The count makes a fun, family activity while also providing important information.

This nation-wide event takes place December 14, 2023, through January 5, 2024, perfect for holiday vacation time.

Why not take your family outdoors during the kids’/grandkids’ Christmas break from school and participate?

Snowshoe, cross-country ski or simply walk around and document the birds you see and hear during your outing.

This can also be an individual or couple’s event (or several couples can enjoy the experience together).

A Montana friend participates in the Christmas Bird Count every year and has done so for decades. She gathers with a small group and they spend either New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day observing birds and recording their sightings. Then they share a meal together to welcome the New Year. My friend often hosts the mealtime at her home, with everyone bringing a dish.

Another idea would be to share a meal at a restaurant after the outing.

Whether with family or friends, this time as “community scientists” can be an enjoyable outing in addition to gathering and sharing vital information.

the species and number of birds that come to feeders you set out at home.

Find out more about the program and how to participate at feederwatch.org.

Although most birds thrive on natural wild foods, according to an article in the publication Backyards and Barnyards, “more than 100 North American species supplement their diet with bird seed, suet, fruit, and nectar from feeders.”

When we provide such items, we offer birds sustenance to help them survive the winter months.

Passing on to the next generation the enjoyment of birds and other wildlife found in Wyoming is a wonderful way to ensure the conservation of the state’s wild places and wild animals. I remember the bird feeders my parents put up every winter to help the songbirds survive as well as the trees and shrubs my dad planted to provide shelter for them.

Because of my parents’ enjoyment of and

compassion for the wildlife on our farm and the provisions they made, especially in winter, to help them survive, they provided a legacy to which I remain committed. I not only give birds and small animals food, water and shelter, I also share my knowledge, experience and passion for nature with others. I find great joy in doing both, and I’m grateful to my parents for helping the animals on our farm and sharing that concept with me during my childhood.

As the snow falls and the temperature drops, we can all do something to care for the birds and other creatures this winter and have fun with family and friends while doing so … as well as positively contribute to science and provide a legacy for Wyoming’s youth.

Merry Christmas and Happy Bird Watching/Counting! W Gayle M. Irwin is a freelance writer based in Casper.

Learn more about how to participate in the 2023 Christmas Bird Count at this website: bit.ly/AudubonWinterBirdCount Another way to observe and count birds individually or as a family is through the Cornell Lab’s project known as Feeder Watch. This is an additional opportunity to serve as a “community scientist,” documenting

DEC 2023

25

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WOOLERY FAMILY

CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

WYOMING COWBOY HALL OF FAME

“We trailed cattle from the time I was born,” Clyde explained.

“We trailed cattle from Kinnear to Beaver Creek, which took 10 days to two weeks in the spring and about seven days in the fall to trail back and forth to the range.”

Harvey and Violette Woolery (Clyde’s parents) with toddler Clyde Woolery at the Woolery Cow Camp.

Clyde was the third generation to call Wyoming home. His grandfather, Gene Woolery, had first arrived in the early 1900s after running away from home and the cold winters in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, at just 14 years old. The young teenager cowboyed for the Shoshone Livestock and eventually bought his own place in the 1930s when the reservation stopped leasing land to non-Indians.

Clyde Woolery: LESSONS FROM THE SADDLE

BY JACKIE DOROTHY Clyde Woolery gripped the braided rein and settled himself into the saddle. He readied himself and suddenly he was launched into the arena on the bucking bronc, trying to find a rhythm with the horse by spurring it forwards and backwards with his spurs, in a sweeping motion from shoulder to flank.

I

t was 1967 and Clyde was taking time off from the home ranch in Kinnear, Wyoming to follow the rodeo circuit as a Saddle Bronc rider.

He loved the competition, the people he met and traveling the countryside as a member of the newly formed Shaman Rodeo Team for Central Wyoming College.

“It was just a lot of fun. You meet a lot of people and get to travel all around,” he said. However, his heart remained with ranching.

26

DEC 2023

“I got a job at Jackson Lake Lodge for a little while, and then I worked for Larry Miller on the Cross Mill Iron Ranch just up above Burris. It was just something else to do.

That’s where I met my wife, Nancy. In the fall of ‘68, I came back to the ranch.”

“What I really enjoyed was working the cows on a horse that I developed myself,” Clyde said, reminiscing about his favorite horse, a palomino named Trigger that he broke himself.

“It had territorial water rights because it’s the old Kinnear place, owned by Napoleon Bonaparte Kinnear and his wife, Isabelle, the daughter of the mountain man, Jim Baker,” Clyde said.

“My grandfather bought it from the Casper National Bank when Kinnear lost it in the depression.”

Gene nearly lost the ranch himself the very first year.

“When the payment come due, he went to Casper National Bank and told him that he couldn’t make the payment,” Clyde said. “The Casper Bank told him, ‘We own most of the ranches in Wyoming. Go back and see if you can make the interest payment next year.’”

Gene was able to raise the money and saved the ranch. Ironically, the interest payments were made through a government program of killing the Woolery Ranch livestock.

“The government bought out the cattle and sheep and killed them because there was just such an excess of livestock. My grandfather

had made a deal with a sheep man in Lander that he would get his old ewes who weren’t worth anything if he wintered them and they’d split them 50/50 come spring.

Associate. In 2017, he was honored as Fremont County’s Ag Man of the Year.

Clyde Woolery.

Like his dad before him, education remains important to Clyde even as he steps into retirement and is handing the reins of the ranch over to the next generation.

“That spring was when the government came in and killed the livestock and they got $0.25 a head. That made enough money to make a payment on the place and that’s how we got established.”

“My biggest advice is never quit learning.

You know, to this day, I’m still learning new things and I think that’s really important.” W

The ranch has remained with the Woolery family ever since and continues to be family operated.

In 1950, when Clyde was just 4 years old, his grandfather Gene died and his parents, Harvey and Violette, took over the management of the ranch and kept expanding.

“Dad enjoyed the ranching part,” Clyde explained, “but he was very active in the community. He served on the school board for about 14 years and on the college board. He helped get Central Wyoming College started.”

With a dad passionate about learning, Clyde graduated from Morton with a class of 18 students and went on to get a higher education. “I would guess over half of us went to college.”

Clyde continued to learn the craft of ranching from his father and upon Harvey’s retirement in 1984, Clyde took over management as the third generation to run Woolery Ranch. Under his direction, the ranch has prospered and seen many changes. Recently, Clyde established a conservation easement on part of the summer range.

Jackie Dorothy is a freelance writer and historian, and she owns a marketing agency in Thermopolis.

EDITOR’S NOTE: In the October issue of the WREN magazine, our Co-op Spotlight featured Robert Borgialli. We mistakenly identified Dianne Farris as Robert’s wife. She is his daughter. We apologize for this error.

Over 60 Academic Programs

SHAPE

your

FUTURE

Throughout the years, his wife Nancy has been at his side, helping with the ranch duties and cooking while maintaining a job off the Woolery Ranch. She taught school at Riverton and Pavillion before spending 23 years as the elementary librarian at Wind River.

When not working on the ranch, Clyde devoted his time to helping their community.

“I spent 31 years on the fire department and I was an EMT for eight years,” he said. “And then I was involved in Wyoming Stock Growers Association and served about 15 years on the Wyoming State Grazing Board Association.”

Over the years, Clyde also helped to establish the Central Wyoming College Rodeo Booster Club as an alumnus of that first team, and he was President of the Fremont County Cattlemen’s

explore

OUR AWARD-WINNING MACHINE TOOL PROGRAM

www.sheridan.edu | (307) 675-0500 DEC 2023

27

COUNTRY COOKS

SAUSAGE QUICK JAMBALAYA 1 1/3 CUP UNCOOKED LONG-GRAIN RICE 1 LARGE ONION, HALVED AND SLICED 1 MEDIUM GREEN PEPPER, SLICED 1 MEDIUM SWEET RED PEPPER, SLICED 2 TSP OLIVE OIL 3 GARLIC CLOVES, MINCED 1 28 OZ CAN DICED TOMATOES, UNDRAINED

3 BAY LEAVES 1 TSP SALT 1 TSP PAPRIKA 1/2 TSP THYME 1/2 TSP PEPPER 1/4 TSP HOT PEPPER SAUCE 2 15 OZ CANS BLACK-EYED PEAS, RINSED AND DRAINED 3/4 LB FULLY-COOKED ANDOUILLE OR ITALIAN SAUSAGE, SLICED

Cook rice according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, sauté onion and peppers in oil for 4 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in the tomatoes, bay leaves, salt, paprika, thyme, pepper and hot pepper sauce. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Stir in peas and sausage; heat through. Discard bay leaves. Serve with rice.

ANNE METZLER

SAUSAGE TORTELLINI SOUP 1 LB BULK ITALIAN SAUSAGE 1 LB CHEESE TORTELLINI 2 MEDIUM ONIONS 1 CUP MUSHROOMS, CHOPPED

SAUSAGE WITH CABBAGE 1 RING SAUSAGE OR POLISH KIELBASA, ANY CASING REMOVED AND SLICED 1 MEDIUM YELLOW ONION, DICED 5 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED

1 16 OZ CAN CHICKEN BROTH 1 QT STEWED OR CRUSHED TOMATOES SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE

In a large soup kettle, brown sausage, onions and mushrooms. Reduce heat, adding seasonings, broth and tomatoes.

Simmer for a short time. Stir in tortellini and turn up the heat just high enough to cook tortellini until al dente.

MARYNELL OECHSNER

1 SMALL HEAD OF GREEN CABBAGE, CHOPPED ROUGHLY EVOO SALT AND PEPPER, TO TASTE

In a large pan with a lid, sauté the onion and garlic in the EVOO until just soft, add the sliced sausage and cook until the sausage is hot. Add the chopped cabbage and mix. With the lid on the pan, let the mixture steam in the pan on low heat for about 15 minutes until the cabbage is soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir until well mixed. Can be served as is or over cooked noodles of your choice.

POWELL

DEBRA DOWELL

GUERNSEY

SAUSAGE NOODLE CASSEROLE 12 OZ EGG NOODLES 12 OZ CHUB SAUSAGE, FLAVOR OF YOUR CHOOSING 1 MEDIUM GREEN PEPPER, DICED 1 10 OZ CAN DICED TOMATOES GRATED PARMESAN CHEESE

RIVERTON

Cook noodles per package directions. Brown sausage.

Drain fat. Add green pepper and tomatoes (with juices).

Simmer for 10 minutes or until the green pepper becomes tender. Drain noodles. Add to the meat mixture. Serve with cheese to sprinkle over.

DONNA SCHUETTE

POWELL

Send Sendcomplete completerecipe recipebybyMarch FEBRUARY 10! 15!

MARCH:

LAMB 28

DEC 2023

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  

PEN TO PAPER

My Winter Friend MARIE HAINES

MOORCROFT

Tonight, the snow falls softly, Softly, without sound.

Building castles, shimmering white, As diamonds sweep the ground.

Memories of yesterday Take hold of midnight dreams, When you and I walked hidden paths, Along the mountain streams.

How many years have passed since then?

Where did the magic go?

Do you still walk those hidden paths?

I’d really like to know.

Tell me the secrets that you keep, Within your winters frozen sleep.

Will we walk those paths again, As snowflakes melt upon my skin?

Oh, how I long to feel the glow, Beneath your frozen winter snow.

Until the sun shines warm again, My heart is yours, My Winter Friend.

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.

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

DEC 2023

29

01 03

02

01

Mountain Splendor Heather McLaughlin, Upton

02

Glorious Giant of the Forest Jeanie Schlautmann, Gillette

03

Beauty on the Trail Janet Cole Lake, Sundance

04

The Path to the Cabin in the Woods Rob McIntosh, Torrington

05

Woodsy Road Heather McLaughlin, Upton

06

Peek A Boo Grandma Pat Townsend, Osage

04

05

06

JUST PICTURE IT

THIS MONTH:

MAR (DUE FEB 15):

WOODS

SUNRISE

07

08

09

11

10

07

Into the Woods Martha Rasmussen, Burlington

08

Where the Pines Meet our Wyoming Sky Kitty Yelland, Pine Haven

09

Aspens Grow Bugs at Laramie Peak Rob McIntosh, Torrington

10

Character Tree Marynell Oeschsner, Powell

11

Wild Wonderful Wyo Jennifer Pierson, Moorcroft

12

13

14

15

16 17

12

Tenacious Woods Bonnie Ten Broek, Newcastle

13

Ghost Woods Bonnie Ten Broek, Newcastle

14

Road to Nowhere Kellie Berdon, Moorcroft

15

Snowy Woods Trudy Craft, Basin

16

Soaking Up the Sun Cody Weatherly, Lingle

17

Young Majesty Jennifer Pierson, Moorcroft

19

18 20

21

18

Big Horn Sheep Nolan Perry, Sheridan

19

Devils Tower Woods Debra Dowell, Powell

20

Walking in Devastation Piper Whitney-Brown, Wheatland

21

Frosty Sunrise, Frozen Woods Trudy Craft, Basin

22

AA Kellie Berdon, Moorcroft

23

June in Yellowstone Park Martha Rasmussen, Burlington

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.

23

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.

DEC 2023

33

WHAT’S HAPPENING

WHAT’S HAPPENING REGIONAL MAP

02

03

JANUARY AND FEBRUARY

01 | SOUTHEAST

02 | NORTHEAST

CENTENNIAL

B U F FA L O

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

THURSDAYS Bluegrass Jam Session: 6:30p. Occidental Saloon. Free.

Info 307-684-0451.

CHEYENNE

04

01 FEATURED EVENT

FIRST AND THIRD SATURDAYS (THROUGH MAY) Winter Farmers Market: 9a-1p. Located inside the warm and cozy downtown historic Train Depot. Local producers selling homegrown meats, baked goods, ready-to-go foods, body care, jams, jellies and much more.

C H U G WAT E R THURSDAYS Acoustic Jam Session: Stampede Saloon & Eatery music venue open for Thursday night jam session. Info 307-422-3200, stampedefun@aol.com.

FLAMING GORGE & FONTENELLE RESERVOIR ICE FISHING COMPETITIONS

Join Sweetwater County for ice fishing competitions on the Flaming Gorge Reservoir.

Join the fun in teams of up to four and compete for prizes.

BURBOT BASH  JANUARY 27-29

For more information and to register for the event: flaminggorgecountry.com or 800-FL-GORGE.

LABARGE DING-THE-LING ICE-FISHING DERBY  FEBRUARY 10-12

LaBarge Activities Committee sponsors the annual Ding-The-Ling Ice-Fishing Derby! Teams of two to four are eligible for prizes up to $10,000! Check out the derby poster full of prize details, contest information and registration to join in on the fun at Fontenelle Reservoir. For more information: facebook.com/labargedingtheling or call Jenny at 307-388-0198 or Sadie at 307-390-3012.

SOUTHWEST 34

DEC 2023

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

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

MEDICINE BOW ONGOING Museum and Gift Shop: Open daily 8:30a-4:30p. 405 Lincoln Highway.

Info 307-379-2383.

S A R AT O G A FEBRUARY 3-4 Saratoga Skijoring Races: Buck Springs Arena. The Saratoga Lions Club, in partnership with Discover Carbon County, WY, are proud to announce the 8th Annual Saratoga Skijoring Races. Enjoy fast-paced skijoring races where contestants compete on skis or a snowboard and are pulled through a track by a horse and rider. Between the races, you can enjoy the Hobo Hot Springs, which are open to the public year-round.

Info saratogaskiijoring.com.

GILLETTE JANUARY 27 Lego STEM Challenge Family Day: 10a-12p. The Campbell County Rockpile Museum will host a morning filled with Lego Brick challenges for children ages 5 through 12 years of age and their parent or grandparent. Registration opens Dec. 20 for Rockpile Museum Association members and to the public on Dec. 27. Free, but space is limited to 50 children and reservations are required. To register please call the museum at 307-682-5723, stop in or send an email to rockpile@vcn.com.

ONGOING (THROUGH 2023) No Time For Tears: The Life & Art of Dixie Lynne Reece Exhibit: Campbell County Rockpile Museum.

Features nearly 70 works of art from Campbell County artist Dixie Reece (1936-2018). Info 307-682-5723, rockpilemuseum.com.

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

HULETT MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS (SEPTEMBER-APRIL) Adult 5-mile Walking Exercise Class: 4:45p. GHCC Gym. Info 307-467-5676.

THURSDAYS Storytime: 3p. Hulett Library.

First group ages 0-7, second group ages 8-12. Info 307-467-5676.

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

WHAT’S HAPPENING

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

MOORCROFT WEDNESDAYS Moorcroft Branch Library Activities: Storytime 10a.

Afterschool Craft 4p. AA meetings 7p. Please use downstairs entrance.

Info 307-756-3232.

THIRD THURSDAY OF MONTH Adult Book Club: 1p. Moorcroft Branch Library. New book each month. Stop by the library for your copy. Info 307-756-3232.

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

ONGOING Senior Center Events: Coffee and rolls 9a Wed. Toenail clinic 9a fourth Thu, dinner 6p fourth Thu. Info 307-756-9550.

NEWCASTLE THIRD SATURDAYS Weston County Democrats: 4p. Weston County Library.

Info 307-941-1822.

FRIDAYS Bingo: 7:30p. VFW Hall. Free.

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

S H E R I DA N FEBRUARY 10 Sheridan WYO Winter Rodeo: Sheridan County Fairgrounds.

Skijoring races are free and open to the public. We can’t wait to welcome you to this epic winter tradition that in 2023 boasted 44 registered skijoring teams; over 4,000 spectators, fans and athletes; and more than $14,000 in cash prizes awarded. Info 307-673-7120, wyowinterrodeo.org.

SATURDAYS Landon’s Farmers Market: 9a-12p.

Landon’s Greenhouse, 505 College Meadows Dr. Info 307-672-8340, info@landonsgreenhouse.com, landonsgreenhouse.com.

JANUARY AND FEBRUARY

S U N DA N C E

DUBOIS

FEBRUARY 17 Sundance Winter Festival: 10a.

Downtown. Free. This is a great way for the whole family to get out and play for a day in February. There will be delicious food from several vendors; restaurants and fun drink specials throughout the town. $5 open container wristbands to help support this free event. Find the two wristband booths when you arrive - one at City Hall (Winter Festival Headquarters) and the other in the barn next to Rehab Solutions. Info sundancewinterfestival.com.

THIRD WEDNESDAYS Wyoming Health Fairs Monthly Wellness Screen/Blood Draw: 7-10a. Dubois Medical Clinic.

Appointments encouraged. Info 307455-2516, whf.as.me/dubois.

WEDNESDAYS Storytime: 10:30a. Crook County Public Library. Info Tonia 307-283-1008.

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.

GREYBULL SUBMIT AN EVENT

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

UPTON FIRST AND THIRD WEDNESDAYS Bingo at Senior Center: 6:30p, $10 for 10 cards. Info 307-468-9262.

Send complete information by

ONGOING Senior Center Activities: 1113 2nd St. Lunch is served at noon Mon-Fri for $4. Call for reservation before 9a at 307-468-2422 or 712-400-9056.

Coffee and treats at 9a on Tues.

Exercise program at 9a every Tue and Fri. Card elimination and potluck every third Mon at 5:30p.

Ask about medical equipment loans. Info 307-468-9262.

Please send events occurring in the month of March by January 15 for inclusion in the February issue of WREN.

03 | NORTHWEST

Photos are always welcome.

JANUARY 15!

Also, be sure to include the date, title, description, time, cost, location, address and contact information for each event.

CODY JANUARY 4-7 Wyoming Ice Fest: The first annual Wyoming Ice Fest will consist of ice and mixed climbing guided clinics.

Due to the difficult and limiting terrain of the South Fork Valley, we are including 2:1 clinics – giving you more of a privately guided experience – in addition to 4:1, 6:1, and 8:1 options depending on the location of climbs and the safety of belay areas.

We are excited to bring you true alpine climbing experiences in the South Fork Valley and surrounding areas. Info wyoicefest.com.

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

Look for more events at wyomingrea.org/news.

QUESTIONS & SUBMISSIONS:

JACKSON JANUARY-FEBRUARY International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race: The race begins in Jackson and goes through other communities in western Wyoming.

Over ten days from late January to early February, mushers and their teams compete in eight races.

Local towns host the race in a new place every night, including Lander, Pinedale, Big Piney, Kemmerer and Alpine. These communities welcome you to get a glimpse of the race and celebrate with carnivals, dog parades, kid races and more, making this one of the top Jackson Hole winter activities. Info wyomingstagestop.org.

 wren@

LANDER

 [307] 286-8140

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

wyomingrea.org

 214 W. Lincolnway

Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001

 wyomingrea.org/

wren-submissions

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

DEC 2023

35

WHAT’S HAPPENING

JANUARY AND FEBRUARY

R I V E RTO N

MEETEETSE

P I N E DA L E

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.

MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS Meeteetse Recreation District: 10:30a yoga. Info 307-899-2698, meetrec.org.

FEBRUARY 9-11 Pinedale Winter Carnival: 9a. Pinedale Rodeo Grounds.

Info mainstreetpinedale.com/ winter-carnival, facebook.com/ pinedalewintercarnival.

PreK Tales & Tunes: 10:30a.

Riverton Branch Library. Ages 3-5.

Free. Info 307-856-3556.

POWELL SECOND SUNDAY Community, Conversation, and Crafts: 12-4p. Homesteader Museum. Info 307-754-9481.

Starlight Storytime: 5:30p. Riverton Branch Library. Ages birth-5. Free.

Info 307-856-3556.

THURSDAYS Toddler Move & Groove: 10:30a.

Riverton Branch Library. Ages birth-2.

Free. Info 307-856-3556.

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.

THERMOPOLIS

MONDAYS Toddler Storytime: Mondays after school. Meeteetse Library.

All kids grades 1+ not in school.

Legos, board games, crafts, stories, songs and more.

Info 307-868-2248.

Be like Santa Buckle up!

36

DEC 2023

SECOND SATURDAYS Great Until 8!: 4-8p. This event showcases the businesses who are staying open until 8p or later in town. Shop after 5p and enter in for a chance to win $100 gift certificates. The $100 gift certificate will be valid at the business with the winning edles Info 917-589-7852, nereceipt. mainstreetthermopolis@gmail.com. are flat

FIR

grows wide lower branches, often downturned

04 | SOUTHWEST LY M A N THURSDAYS Storytime: 11a. Lyman Branch Library. All ages 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 307-677-2566.

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

ONGOING Community Classes: Fitness, computer, workforce and kids’ classes are available. Valley Learning Center. Times and prices vary. Info 307-782-6401, valleylearningcenter. coursestorm.com.

cones grow P Uup Z Zlike LE ANSWERS candle flames needles are flat

FIR

Evergreen SPRUCE Tree FIR ID

needles are flat

grows in a true conifer grows shape lower wide branches, often downturned

cones are stiff and woody

SPRUCE grows in a true conifer shape

PINE

cones are smooth and flexible

needles are and stiff, shortcones square often grow up like candle flames

come in needles of 2, 3 or 5 ” “packets

cones are smooth gro anws d an opelen flexib canopy with space between are nch bra needles stiff els, short andlev often square

grows wide lower branches, often downturned

SPRUCE grows in a true conifer shape

cones grow up like candle flames

cones are smooth and flexible

needles are short and stiff, often square

PUZZLE ON PAGE 23

cones are stiff and woody

come in needles of 2, 3 or 5 ” ts “packe

grows an open

CLASSIFIEDS

WREN CLASSIFIED ADS ARE $0.75 PER SIX CHARACTERS CONTACT:  SHAWNA@GOLINDEN.COM  970-221-3232

FOR SALE

WANTED

Aermotor Windmills and parts, cylinders, pipe, rod, submersible pumps, motors, control boxes, Hastings 12 ga. bottomless stock tanks, Shaver Outdoor Wood Boiler Furnaces and more. In business for more than 77 years.

Herren Bros., Box 187, Harrison NE. 1-308-668-2582.

We Pay Cash For Mineral & Oil/Gas Interests producing & non-producing. 800-733-8122.

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

MISCELLANEOUS Soon Church/Government uniting, suppressing “Religious Liberty” enforcing “National Sunday Law.” Be Informed!

Free materials. TSBM, PO Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540, tbsmads@yahoo.com, 1-888-211-1715.

Frontier Auto Museum Looking For Oil Company Gas Pumps, Globes And Signs. 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 neon motel or store signs, 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 relics@frontierauto.net.

WANTED CJ or Wrangler reasonably priced.

Any condition but rusted. 512-797-1664.

DEC 2023

37

ENLIGHTEN US

PHOTO BY SARAH MORRIS

I suppose most of us may not remember a lot about December 1967. Allow me to set the stage a bit: On December 3, the first-ever human heart transplant was successfully completed in Cape Town, South Africa.

On December 10, Otis Redding (“Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay”) died in a plane crash in Madison, Wisconsin.

In December, over 10,000 troops from the Army’s 101st Airborne Division were airlifted into South Vietnam.

The Vietnam War was ramping up.

BY WALT GASSON

CHRISTMAS

1967 38

DEC 2023

On December 31, the Green Bay Packers clinched the NFL Championship, and would later face the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl II – “The Ice Bowl” at 15 degrees.

C

loser to home, Stan Hathaway was the governor of Wyoming, replacing the beloved Cliff

Hansen. The Cowboys football team

went 10-1 in the regular season, finishing their season ranked 6th in the nation. They faced LSU in the Sugar Bowl, and collapsed in the

bleeding out. Mom was crushed. He was the only man she had ever loved, the only one she would ever love.

They had married relatively late, and for two people who were distant with the rest of the world, they

second half, losing 20-13.

were of one

Green River, Wyoming, was still a one

another. I, on

stoplight town and our lives went on more or less like they always had.

Everyone else’s life did, anyway. For my mom and me, it was a struggle.

I was 13. She was 48.

My dad Gus ran for city council that spring. We distributed campaign fliers to as many doorsteps as we could.

They called attention to his education, business experience and community service. We went to Aunt Carol and Uncle Grant’s house for dinner on

heart with one the other hand, was angry. It wasn’t just my dad who’d been

We hung onto one another and just cried. And from that moment on, somehow or another, we began to heal.

taken from me. It was my best friend. He taught ride. He taught me all the places and the stories of those places that tied the generations of our family to the beyond it. It felt like our life lay

hall down the street to check the vote

It must have been hard to know

was dead at age 53. Heart disease – we never had a clue.

The truth is, I only remember brief flashes of that summer. My mom said later that there were times when she didn’t know where I was, and she had to trust God and just hope someone was taking care of me. They were. Aunt Carol was my dad’s sister. She and my beloved uncle Grant Morck had no children of their own, but they loved me with all their hearts. My dad’s best friend Luke Gerdes and his wife Mary just informally adopted me, and I couldn’t have been in better hands.

But Christmas was different. Christmas is about feeling whole, and we were broken. Gus’ absence was like an open wound that Christmas, and we were

Walt Gasson is a fourth-generation Wyoming native, writer, and son of the sagebrush sea.

He lives in Laramie, Wyoming.

sagebrush sea and the mountains

election day, then stopped at the city

proud and happy. A few hours later, he

I hope this Christmas we’ll be aware of those around us who are hurting. I pray that we’ll reach out to them and hold them and help them in whatever way seems best. And I hope that will help them heal.

God bless you all.

Merry Christmas! W

me to hunt and shoot and fish and

in tatters around us.

totals. He won, and we all went to bed

their innate stoicism. We hung onto one another and just cried. And from that moment on, somehow or another, we began to heal.

what to do for us. I suspect there was probably a lot of behind-the-scenes collaboration. There often was in our small town. But someone - I suspect Aunt Carol – knew that what we really needed was normal. And that’s what we got. A small, family-only dinner on Christmas Eve and one gift to open.

I opened the one from my mom, of course. It was a fly rod – my very first one. I have no idea where she got it. She didn’t know one end of a fly rod from another, so I guess it was probably Uncle Grant or maybe Henry Rood. But it was magic. It was more than just a fly rod. It was the promise

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

of open water and springtime and fishing and peace.

I cried. My mom cried. That shouldn’t be surprising, but it is if you know anything about the Gassons and

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

DEC 2023

39

Let it S

, w o n S it t e L , w no

O N S T I T E L

!

S E K WFLA Snackable Snowflakes

These simple and seasonal activities will strengthen your kids’ fine motor skills and celebrate the winter weather – without having to go out in the cold.

Materials

Instructions

Big & Small Marshmallows

Help your kids press pretzels into the large marshmallows, all the way around.

Pretzel Sticks

Add little marshmallows to the ends of all the pretzels that are sticking out.

Dot Sticker Flakes

Snowflake Pegs

Materials

Instructions

Materials

Instructions

Dot Stickers

In the middle of the paper, draw a vertical line the length of the paper.

Q-tips

Draw a snowflake on the top/lid of the shoebox.

Paper Marker Tape

From corner to corner, then from the other corner to corner, draw diagonal lines.

Shoebox Marker Scissors

Poke small holes that follow the shape of the snowflake.

Cut the Q-tips in half.

Have your kids insert the Q-tips into the holes with the fuzzy part sticking up.

Add details such as additional lines at each point and a hexagon of lines around the middle, connecting each line.

Hang the paper on a wall.

Hand your kids the dot stickers and have them cover all the lines with the sticker.

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

Communication

Sense of Self & Relationships

Curious Minds

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.

Check out This month's activity:

“NEW YEAR’S COUNTDOWN” Find fun activities to do with your kids at

wyqualitycounts.org/wren