A Wyoming Legacy
Since 1945, we’ve been here to support generations across Wyoming.
That’s 80 years of calling Wyoming home. 80 years of standing alongside our neighbors, families, businesses, and communities. 80 years of doing what we do best for a healthier future.
Thank you, Wyoming, for putting your trust in us for the last 80 years. Here’s to 80 more.
Wyoming Veterans Blessed by the Honor Flight
STORY BY JACKIE DOROTHY
Many
YOUR WREN MAGAZINE
In my last column I talked about the seven cooperative principles, and while I think all seven of them help distinguish us from investor-owned or for-profit companies, last month I wrote about the fact that we are not-for-profit and that we are owned by you, the cooperative members. I also wrote about how I felt these two principles helped the cooperatives distinguish ourselves from other utilities and in the end, helped us achieve some of our legislative priorities.
However, one of the other cooperative principles is “Education, training and information,” and while this principle isn’t quite as sexy as some of the others, it’s just as important.
While the “training” mainly applies to our elected directors, where they take a series of classes over several years in order to become a more educated and effective steward of your cooperative, as well as numerous training courses that your employees take, again to the benefit of the cooperative, the education and information is where your WREN magazine plays a vital role.
Legislative victories are great because what I do in the legislature, educating legislators about who the cooperatives are, why we do what we do and why we do it, and why any particular piece of legislation either helps our memberowners or hurts us means a great deal to me. But if I’m honest, one of the more gratifying things about my job is
when I attend your cooperative annual meetings and folks come up to me afterwards and tell me how much they love the magazine, or how much their mom or dad or other family members and friends enjoy the WREN.
Now I know the recipes, book reviews, poems and pictures are some of the more popular parts of the magazine. However, we do get several emails and even hand-written letters from readers expressing their appreciation (and sometimes disagreement which is o.k.) for the other content in the magazine, and this means as much to me as getting a legislative win.
With the WREN, we strive to strike a balance between being a “lifestyle” magazine as well as being informative about the issues of the day, both at the state and national level. We’ve received several awards from the Wyoming Press Association over the years, which are great and tell us that we’re doing a good job, but none of the awards come close to someone coming up to me at an annual meeting and telling me how much they, or others, love WREN. So thank you to those who have expressed their gratitude for what I think is one of the state’s best statewide publications.
SHAWN TAYLOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
OF THE PAST
COLD PLUNGES
“ITS HISTORY IS IN THE LAND AND THE INDUSTRIES THAT HAVE SHAPED IT.”
Western Watts Energy Podcast
TRI-STATE HAS LAUNCHED A NEW PODCAST, “WESTERN WATTS.”
The podcast will dive into the heart of energy issues and share firsthand insights relevant to rural, agricultural and mountain communities across Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming.
So far, “Western Watts” has discussed the “why” behind wildfire mitigation, cooperative roots and the future of Tri-State, as well as Godzilla, meteors and reliability. And there’s much more to come!
VISIT TRISTATE.COOP/WWPOD TO ACCESS EACH EPISODE, OR LISTEN ON YOUR PREFERRED PODCAST PLATFORM INCLUDING SPOTIFY, YOUTUBE AND APPLE PODCASTS.
INVESTING IN POWER
Whether you’re turning the lights on in your home or keeping your livestock warm, electricity is vital to our way of life. It powers our communities and keeps us safe. We use many different fuel sources to keep electricity affordable for the cooperative family because investing in you is why we exist!
Wyoming Veterans Blessed By The Honor Flight
BY JACKIE DOROTHY
As Pat Reher approached the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, she was touched by an unexpected rush of emotions when she found the name she was searching for.
There were 58,000 service members on the wall and Earl Russell Cobb was on panel 25E, Line 96.
She had known him by his nickname of Russell and, because of this, couldn’t find his name at first. However, the record keepers helping her refused to give up until they found him.
Pat had grown up with Cobb since kindergarten and still felt the pain of loss. He had been serving in Vietnam for only three months when he had been killed, and now he was honored, with thousands of others who had lost their lives in the conflict.
She had never expected to have this chance to see Russell’s tribute and the moment was not lost on her, nor on those who had accompanied her to the wall.
“It kind of gives you chills,” she said. “I had mixed emotions. It was sad, but yet, I was thankful his name was there.”
Pat and her husband Mike Reher, both of Pine Bluffs, and their brother-in-law Lin Vann of Cheyenne, are Wyoming veterans who had been given the trip of a lifetime by the Rocky Mountain Honor Flight. They were in Washington, D.C. with 30 other veterans to visit the monuments and memorials dedicated to their branches of service.
Before they even reached the capitol, the veterans had been greeted by cheers as people lined the tarmac in Denver to send them off to D.C. Hundreds more greeted them when they arrived in Baltimore, Maryland.
“They didn't get much of a thank you or a welcome home,” Joe Winslow of the Rocky Mountain Honor Flight said. “They get that on this trip over and over. It's a big surprise to them. We don't tell them what we're doing.”
Pat and Mike Reher, husband and wife and both veterans, next to the "Lone Sailor," a bronze statue created by Stanley Bleifeld in 1987, located at the United States Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C. At the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.
Earl Russell Cobb
RMHF was founded in 2007 and received its 501(c) (3) designation from the IRS in 2009. They rely solely on private donations and corporate grants for funding. No government funding is provided.
44
STATES
49
1,470 from which flights originate. Each hub is autonomous and is governed by a board of directors responsible for fundraising, flight scheduling, flight logistics, volunteer recruiting, etc.
Bagpipers, honor guards, the Patriot Guard, motorcycle groups and occasionally the band from Fort Carson will line up to give the veterans the greeting they did not receive when they came back from Vietnam.
“I think every vet that we talked to on this trip, every one of them, was so thankful,” Vann said.
“We all served in the Vietnam era, and I had two brothers that served,” Pat said. “To have the people of that era honored was one of the highlights for me of the whole trip, because they had no recognition when they came back from Vietnam.”
Eventually, those who have served in the wars in the Middle East will be included. SINCE 2007
VETERANS SERVING
Trips are scheduled four times per year, typically April, May, September and October. Each trip costs approximately $60,000.
Veterans are selected for trips based on the era of their service, in the following order:
WWII
Korean war
Vietnam war
The exception to this order is that any Veteran diagnosed with a terminal illness, but still able to travel, goes to the top of the waiting list.
Veterans at the Wyoming Column at the WWII Memorial. Left to right: Back Row: Maron Davis, Daniel Delorey, Barry Matlack, Ruben Cortez, Olen Henson, Pat Reher; Front Row: Pinky Johnson, Michael Reher, Lin Vann.
Right: KUSA 9News in Denver traveled with the veterans to cover the trip. Claudia Garofalo with veteran Bob Lopez.
Above: Veterans watch the changing of the guards ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery.
World War II Memorial
National Cemetery
U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Korean War Veterans Memorial National Mall Washington Monument Lincoln Memorial
The White House
“I was amazed at the people in the airports, they were clapping and supporting the veterans,” Mike said. “It was so touching that the veterans that were actually in Vietnam got to see that support that they have now.”
Tony Abestetar, a Thermopolis Vietnam veteran, was also on the Honor Flight and was impressed by the turnout.
“It was nothing like we received when we got back from Vietnam,” he said. “It wasn't very pleasant coming home after the war, to be spit on or have flowers thrown at us. But this honor flight was tremendous.”
“People were cheering and yelling and taking pictures,” Pat said, echoing the sentiments. “They were waving flags, and it was just absolutely amazing.”
Honor Flight
The veterans spent three days in Washington, and all expenses were paid by the Rocky Mountain Honor Flight, a nonprofit based in Colorado. To qualify, they only had to serve in a branch of the military, with an emphasis given to those who had served in World War II or were critically ill but still able to travel.
The honored guests were flown first class
half when the Honor Flight organizers learned that Pat was also a veteran. They were able to get Mike’s wife on the same flight with only a few weeks to spare.
“I think the fact that Mike and I were able to go and experience it together, I think was probably my most thankful thing about the whole trip,” Pat said. “I think it would have lost something if I had gone by myself.”
Honoring America’s
The veterans were given time to visit the memorials at their own pace, with their Guardians making sure they got to each destination, including to the World War I memorial which had just opened this past year.
“We visited all the memorial sites,” Vann said. “The whole purpose behind the trip is so that we get the opportunity of visiting the war memorial dedicated to our own branch.”
“There was a memorial to women in the armed forces,” Pat said. “That was pretty amazing. And then, of course, I'm a Marine so I was really excited about the Marine Corps War Memorial. And we made it to the Navy Memorial for Mike.”
Abstetar, a fellow Marine, was also captivated with the memorials dedicated to their branch.
“I was really impressed with the Marine Corps monument because it was the same monument from Iwo Jima,” he said. “It was a beautiful, beautiful memorial.”
“We went to the World War II Memorial and it just gives you goose bumps for how big that theater actually was,” Vann said.
The veterans were also present for the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery which was an emotional moment as two of their own were invited to come forward.
“They got to go up and place the wreath on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier,” Abstetar said. “They were World War II veterans in their 90s.”
They returned home to Wyoming, touched deeply by their experience, more than any of them had expected.
“It was a hard experience,” Vann said. “It is the kind of thing that only a veteran can really understand. It all comes together because of the people that have died for our country and fellow soldiers.”
There was one more gift waiting for the veterans.
“On our trip back, they had all these cool school kids write letters to us,” Pat said. “We all got a big envelope full of little notes and cards and pictures from children from various schools. They were thanking us for our service and that was really awesome." The veterans also received letters from friends and family members.
All the Wyoming participants have also become advocates for the Honor Flight program. They hope that others will be able to go and have their own experience.
“My wish is that more veterans know that this is available to them,” Mike said. “It is an amazing and touching opportunity of a lifetime.”
The trip is completely free for the veterans and for anyone who has served in any branch of military.
“They earned it,” Winslow said. “The recognition that they get when they get there and when they come home is well deserved.” W
Clockwise from top: From left to right: Veteran Tom Coffey (Castle Pines, CO), Guardians Rob Hooker, Henry Jones, Robert Widom; The WWI Memorial; Veteran Barry Matlack (Laramie, WY) on the flight.
Veternas Ruben Cortez and Bruce Leikam at the WWII Memorial.
Jackie Dorothy is a freelance writer and historian in Thermopolis and hosts the Wyoming history podcast “Pioneers of Outlaw Country.”
When Disaster Strikes, Be Prepared!
Don’t leave home without this survival kit!
When the going gets tough, you need to be ready. Power outages, oods, ice storms, hurricanes and wild res have become the norm. You should always be prepared. Our Desert Camo Emergency Survival Kit will help you be up to the challenge. Having the right tool in the right place could save your bacon! e powerful Overwatch Tactical Flashlight is super bright for when the power goes out. e stainless steel Heavy Duty Multi-Tool contains a knife, can opener, pliers and screwdriver. e Survival Multi-Function Card has an escape rope, wrench, serrated edge saw and more. And when the heat goes out or the car is stuck in a winter storm, the Endurance Emergency Blanket will help keep you warm. For knowing the where and when, there’s the Pioneer Compass Chronograph Watch, which features a compass, temperature display, 7 Strand 550 Paracord and int in addition to keeping time.
“With the right tools, you can survive most anything.”
— Stauer president and founder Mike Bisceglia
is could be your lifesaver. Secured in a handy Desert Camo Carrying Kit, these tools are essential for tackling most any disaster.
With safety at the top of everyone’s wish list, this musthave kit is one of the fastest selling items in our company’s history with over 30,000 sold in the rst 2 months. IN STOCK for the rst time after overwhelming demand, we have ONLY 733 KITS AVAILABLE for this ad and half have already sold! We recommend buying three: one for home, one for the o ce and one to keep in your car in case trouble kicks up. If this kit doesn’t meet your expectations, send it back for a full refund. Your move, Mother Nature.
Kit Speci cations:
Overwatch Tactical Flashlight
• ree light modes
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Pioneer Compass Chrono
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• 4.25' x 6.9'
Camo Emergency
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Insider Offer Code: DCC165-01
*You must use Insider Offer Code DCC165-01 to get this price.
“Good buy. [It] has everything I need for getting along in the wild.” — says client John B., of Stauer’s Survival Kits
FREE COPY! WIN A
When the power suddenly goes out during a thunderstorm, Duck explains to Cat that there’s nothing to worry about - their electric cooperative will get the lights back on in no time. But Cat doesn’t know what an electric co-op is. Luckily, Duck has an Anywhere and Everywhere Machine that takes the friends on an adventure to learn about where electricity comes from, electric cooperatives and cooperative communities.
“Cat and Duck and the Electric Cooperative” was created by Patrick Wood from Co-Mo Connect, an electric cooperative and fiber broadband subsidiary located in mid-Missouri. The book has grown in popularity not only in Missouri’s co-ops but throughout the cooperative community across the country. Cat and Duck’s next adventure - exploring electric safety - is coming soon.
Wood recently launched catandduck.org, which offers a full digital version of “Cat and Duck and the Electric Cooperative,” as well as downloadable Cat, Duck and cooperative community coloring pages.
You can also download and print a black and white version of the entire story of “Cat and Duck and the Electric Cooperative.” That means you get to color and create your very own, one-ofa-kind version of their adventure!
FEBRUARY 2025 ISSUE FINDING THE NORTH WIND BOOK WINNER:
Skin-Breathers
Amphibians have permeable skin that allows them to absorb and lose water and gasses through their skin. One of these gasses is oxygen, which means amphibians “breathe” through their skin! While this adaptation allows amphibians to thrive in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats, it also makes them sensitive to any contaminants or diseases in their habitat. Because of this sensitivity, amphibians can alert scientists to unhealthy environmental conditions that likely affect other species in their shared habitat.
Amphibian Attackers
One of the main diseases threatening amphibians in Wyoming and across the globe is called chytrid fungus, a highly infectious fungal disease that attacks amphibians’ skin. Chytrid has resulted in the loss of many amphibian species and is part of the reason the native Wyoming toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) has become so endangered. However, amphibians can fight off chytrid with the help of symbiotic bacteria living in their skins’ microbiome!
Strength in Community
Amphibians have diverse communities of bacteria living on their skin that make up their skin microbiome. Scientists have identified species of bacteria present in amphibian microbiomes that actually make it harder for chytrid fungus to grow due to their antifungal properties. Amphibians with more diverse bacteria communities have greater protection against chytrid, which is why overall habitat health can be so important for amphibian success.
Wyoming has an amazing diversity of amphibians that play an important role in aquatic and terrestrial food webs. Some of the amphibians you might see while exploring Wyoming include northern leopard frogs, wood frogs, boreal chorus frogs, Wyoming toads, boreal toads, rocky mountain toads, western tiger salamanders and many more. Each of these species has a lot they can tell us about ecosystem health. In celebration of April as National Frog Month, let’s learn a little more about how amphibians can alert us to unhealthy environmental conditions, and how their own health plays a role, too!
Remember!
Never touch an amphibian with your bare hands! Your own skin microbiome (because you have one, too!) and any lotions or sunscreens you might be wearing could disrupt those important bacteria communities in amphibian microbiomes. We need to make sure we protect our slimy friends!
BY DR. BRUCE CONNALLY
The Goat House
My phone rang just as the sun was setting on a warm May evening.
“Dr. Bruce, this is Missy French. I know that you are our horse vet but our goat vet is out of town and Lindsay’s goat has been trying to have her babies for two hours. These will be her first kids and it isn’t working.” Missy took a deep, anxious breath. “Can you help us? Please!”
“Sure,” I answered, trying to sound reassuring. “I will be there in about 20 minutes.”
Missy, her 14-year-old daughter Lindsay and her 12-year-olddaughter Laney met me when I pulled into their drive.
“Milky Way is over here,” Lindsay said urgently as I gathered my instruments and drugs. “She is a year-old Alpine nanny and this is her first time having kids.”
Lindsay led me to a cute little house that I had assumed was the girls’ playhouse. It looked a lot like the old farmhouse the family lived in.
“Dad made this house for the goats,” Laney stated. “I have one goat and Lindsay has one.”
The house became less cute as I reached the door. It was sized perfectly for two girls and their goats but not for a six-foot tall veterinarian. I had to crawl through the door on my knees. Once inside I could stand up if I kept my head and shoulders bent. There were two stalls on the north side. Milky Way, the pregnant nanny, was in the second one. I got down on my knees again to begin the exam.
“Could you pass my bucket of water and disinfectant in here?”
I asked. Lindsay didn’t have to bend over when she brought the bucket in. Milky Way lay quietly as I began the exam.
“The baby is in a transverse presentation,” I told Lindsay. “That means his back is coming to the birth canal instead of his head and front feet. I need to reach in and turn him so he can come out.”
Lindsay’s eyes looked scared but she crawled over to the goat’s head. “He is going to help you,”
she said quietly to Milky Way. “It will be OK.”
I wedged my knee against one side of the little house and lay down on my stomach behind the nanny. In this position I was able to push the kid in and extricate both back legs. A breach delivery (back end first) is a little risky but the big brown kid slid easily out through the birth canal. Laney and Missy were ready with towels to attend to the new baby.
“How is Milky Way doing?” I asked Lindsay.
“She seems tired but good,” Lindsay answered as she kissed the nanny on the forehead.
“Good,” I replied. “I need to check to see if there are any more kids in there.”
The next kid was in a normal position with the head and both front feet just entering the birth canal. My position was definitely not as normal. My right leg was up against the back wall of the house and when I tried to move, I got a painful cramp in my hip. I jumped up to fix the cramp but smacked my head on the low ceiling. That dropped me to my knees but didn’t fix the cramp. I rolled onto my left side with my head in the other stall where Laney and Missy were tending to the first kid.
“Are you OK?” Missy asked.
“Cramp,” I explained rubbing my right hip.
“Sorry it is so small,” Missy replied. “We weren’t planning on delivering babies in here.”
The cramp subsided and I returned to the job at hand. It was easy to deliver the all black kid with a white spot on her forehead.
“A girl!” Lindsay cried happily. “I am naming her Bright Star. Milky Way and Bright Star.”
“Sounds perfect,” I agreed.
“Now let’s see if any more of the solar system are in there.”
“She could have three?” Lindsay asked incredulously.
“Yep,” I answered while reaching inside to check. “And she does. There is another one.”
“Oh, poor Milky Way,” Lindsay said, cradling the nanny’s head in her lap.
The third kid presented the biggest challenge. His head was turned back to his right and both front legs were flexed at the knee so he couldn’t come out of the birth canal. When I straightened his knees, the head went back more. When I pulled his head up, he flipped
completely upside down in the uterus. After about 10 minutes of struggling we were all exhausted. I crawled out of the little door to get some drugs and stretch the kinks out of my back. Laney and Lindsay introduced the two new babies to Milky Way. The mother goat seemed to gain new strength as she licked and mothered her babies.
“I am going to try a new approach,” I told Missy as I drew lidocaine into a syringe. “We will give Milky Way a spinal. It will take away some of her pain and should make her quit pushing long enough for me to get that last kid straightened out.”
Syringe in hand, I crawled back into the little goat house. Ten minutes after the injection,
I jumped up to fix the cramp but smacked my head on the low ceiling. That dropped me to my knees but didn’t fix the cramp.
Milky Way had mostly stopped straining. I was lying on my right side with my left foot propped against the door jamb of the little house. In this position I could place my left hand into the birth canal and place a piece of twine around the little head. Now I could put traction on the twine with my right hand to keep the head up while I straightened the front legs with my left. When everything was straight the third kid slid right out against my chest. Remarkably, he immediately shook his head and began trying to take his first breath of air.
“You got him out!” Laney squealed.
“And he is black!” Lindsay giggled. “I am naming him Night Sky.”
“Thank you for helping tonight,” Missy said as I crawled out of the goat house. “I know you usually only work on horses. And I am sorry the house is so small.”
“You are welcome,” I said as I put my equipment in the car and stretched the muscles in my shoulders. “New life is a wonderful experience no matter where it happens.” W
Dr. Bruce Connally practices equine medicine in central Wyoming and northern Colorado from his home in Berthoud, Colorado.
MUSHROOMS
SAVORY MUSHROOM APPETIZERS
SAUSAGE STUFFED MUSHROOMS
Preheat the oven to 350°. Remove stems from the mushrooms and set aside for a soup or sautéing for another use. Place parchment paper in a 9x13-inch pan. In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, which has been softened to room temperature, and the soy sauce. Mix with a hand mixer until well blended.
Place dry mushrooms in the pan with the cap side up. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to place cream cheese mixture in each mushroom cap. Sprinkle each filled mushroom cap with sesame seeds. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Great, quick, easy and delicious!
SUSAN MCDONALD LARAMIE
Remove stems from mushrooms; chop stems. Set mushroom caps and stems aside. In a 10-inch skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until well browned. With a slotted spoon, remove sausage to paper towels. Spoon off all but 2 tbs drippings. In hot drippings over medium heat, cook mushroom stems until tender, about 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove skillet from heat; stir in sausage, cheese and breadcrumbs. Preheat the oven to 450°. Fill mushroom caps with sausage mixture. Place stuffed mushrooms on a 9x13-inch baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
SHARON BARBER CENTENNIAL
PEPPER,
TASTE
CUP SOUR
Sauté onions in butter. A few minutes later, add mushrooms, 1 tsp dill, 1 cup stock or water, soy sauce and paprika. Cover and simmer until mushrooms are tender, about 20 minutes. Whisk flour into milk. Add milk mixture into mushroom stock. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Just before serving, add salt, pepper, lemon juice, sour cream and, if desired, extra dill (1 tsp). Serve garnished with chopped parsley.
CONNIE PERRY WYARNO
DEEP FRIED MUSHROOMS
12-15 SMALL TO MEDIUM MUSHROOMS, WASHED AND DRIED 1 CUP BUTTERMILK
1/2 CUP FLOUR
SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE PINCH BAKING POWDER OIL FOR FRYING
SANDWICHES
Mix batter ingredients together (may add more flour if runny or a little more buttermilk if too sticky and firm). Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°-375°. Dip mushrooms in batter then gently drop in hot oil. Lift out and drain on a paper towel. Enjoy!
LESLIE ROBINSON BUFFALO
Send complete recipe by March 10!
Please include your name, address and phone number.
wren@wyomingrea.org | [307] 772-1968
Riddle Me This
BY ALISON QUINN
A man runs away from home and takes three left turns. When he arrives back at home there are two people in masks waiting for him. Who are the two people in masks?
What king can you make if you take the head of a lamb, the middle of a pig, the hind of a buffalo and the tail of a dragon?
If you throw me from the window, I will leave a grieving wife. Bring me back, but in the door, and you'll see someone giving life!
A DAGGER THRUST AT MY OWN HEART DICTATES THE WAY I'M SWAYED LEFT I STAND, AND RIGHT I YIELD TO THE TWISTING OF THE BLADE.
AM I? Always old, sometimes new. Never sad, sometimes blue. Never empty, sometimes full. Never pushing, always pulling.
How a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can change your life
Remember when…
Think about the things you loved to do that are dif cult today — going for a walk or just sitting comfortably while reading a book. And remember the last time you got a great night’s sleep?
As we get older, health issues or even everyday aches, pains and stress can prevent us from enjoying life.
So what’s keeping you from having a better quality of life?
Check all the conditions that apply to you.
Lower Back Poor Pain Circulation
Then read on to learn how a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can help.
Feel better, sleep better, live better
A Safe Step Walk-In Tub lets you indulge in a warm, relaxing bath that can help relieve life’s aches, pains and worries.
A Safe Step Tub can help increase mobility, boost energy and improve sleep.
It’s got everything you should look for in a walk-in tub:
• Heated Seat – Providing soothing warmth from start to nish.
• MicroSoothe ® Air Therapy System – helps oxygenate and soften skin while offering therapeutic bene ts.
• Pain-relieving therapy – Hydro massage jets target sore muscles and joints.
• Safety features – Low step-in, grab bars and more can help you bathe safely and maintain your independence.
• Free Safety Package
Britney Tennant
A STRONG VOICE FOR WYOMING’S COMPANION ANIMALS
From founding a nonprofit animal rescue organization to leading another in her community, Britney Tennant provides a strong voice for animals in Wyoming.
Raised in Cheyenne and a graduate of the University of Wyoming, Tennant founded Black Dog Animal Rescue (BDAR) in 2008 while working fulltime elsewhere. Within a few years, she became the first paid staff member of the organization, helping to grow its staff, programs and impact.
“At one point, we were transferring 300 dogs a year from Metro [in Casper],” she said.
Emilee Intlekofer worked with Tennant for several years, first as a BDAR board member and volunteer, and then as a staff member for the organization. Intlekofer is now the Executive Director of BDAR.
“I quit my job of 20 years to come to BDAR,” she said. “It was just something I believed so fully in, I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity. Over the past 10 years, we’ve adopted about 500 animals a year.”
Under Tennant’s leadership, BDAR started PACK (Preparing Adoptable Companion K9s), in which mediumsecurity prisoners in Torrington take BDAR dogs for nine weeks, teaching them basic obedience and other skills necessary to pass the Canine Good Citizen Test. That program is entering its tenth year. Meow Mates, a program that pairs cats with inmates at the Cheyenne Detention Center for socialization and care, began in 2021.
A New Leadership Role
Tennant began to helm the Cheyenne Animal Shelter, another nonprofit animal welfare organization, in later 2021.
“It was really important to me to find a way to off-board at a time that [BDAR] was going to be able to continue without me. I’m really proud that has been the case,” she said.
The team of 35 contracts with the city and county to pick up and house strays. They also host spay/neuter and vaccination clinics and are increasing their community presence in other ways.
“Our shelter has been doing a lot more community education, with free public workshops,” Tennant said. Although there were “a lot of unexpected challenges” in her new job, she said she’s also witnessed many positive results the past four years. Shelter staff “revisited the mission” and set “a vision statement identifying what our values were,” Tennant said. They cleaned up the building, repainted some areas and made the facility more inviting. Results included less staff turnover and increased public visitation, resulting in higher adoption rates.
Discovering Her Voice
Tennant speaks at various events on animal sheltering best practices and on leadership. A member of the 2019 class of Leadership Wyoming, she said she “found her voice” while a participant.
"It helped me step out of my shell and made me comfortable speaking about other issues in addition to these underserved areas of the animal welfare world," she said. "It gave me the confidence, the voice and the language to express my knowledge of and experience with lots of other important issues, too."
That voice takes Tennant to the stages of animal welfare conferences and TED Talks and the halls of the state legislature. She often speaks to legislators personally, within the chambers as bills are considered and
Top: Britney Tennant receives a kiss from a grateful dog.
Britney Tennant at Cheyenne Animal Shelter with a rabbit rescue.
“It gave me the confidence, the voice and the language to express my knowledge of and experience with lots of other important issues, too.”
among organizations like the Wyoming Women’s Legislative Caucus.
“Brit is one of the smartest people I’ve ever met,” said Intlekofer, who became BDAR executive director after Tennant’s departure. “She always has a vision. She is always thinking of the next big thing she can do and a way to make a difference. She also has a really strong desire to keep learning and keep growing.”
Making a Difference
The two women remain close, and their organizations often assist one another. BDAR sometimes brings animals to the Animal Shelter’s staff veterinarian for medical care, Intlekofer said. Additionally, the Animal Shelter occasionally transfers dogs to BDAR by which they may have a better opportunity for adoption.
“We don’t have an official partnership, but we work together on a daily basis in an informal way,” Tennant said. “We’re four miles apart and in the same community. Black Dog is our primary transfer partner. The big transfer networks in the United States basically fell apart during the pandemic, and those networks have not been re-established.”
The Animal Shelter also accepts BDAR dogs and places them “on the adoption floor” for greater visibility and possibility for adoption, Tennant said.
“Having that peer/colleague relationship is really beneficial to both our organizations,” Tennant stated.
Routine cancer screenings are essential
At Cheyenne Regional Cancer Center, we know life is full of unforgettable moments— laughter in the park, hugs from loved ones and time with those who matter most.
For more moments like these, regular cancer screenings are essential. But if cancer is detected, we’re here to stand with you with advanced treatments and the unwavering support you deserve. We’re here for you.
As she steps into her fifth year as executive director of the Cheyenne Animal Shelter, Tennant remains committed to the path she walks.
“I really do love my work,” she said. “Animal welfare and animal sheltering is complicated anywhere, but I think you need to know your community really deeply in order to be successful at it. I stay and do this work here because I believe in the work and the organization, but I also believe I’m uniquely positioned in some way to do it here.”
“Britney feels very deeply about making a difference,” Intlekofer said. “She’s brought a lot of innovation [to animal sheltering and welfare], and she’s made a big difference in this space.” W
M. Irwin is a freelance writer based in Casper.
Gayle
Mark
How
Janice Kennah, Fort Bridger
All Cleaned Up
Denette Price, Newcastle
Old Timey Beauty
Martha Ralston, Encampment
Grandpa's Gangster Car
Vicki Olson, Powell
Sunday Drive in a 1914 Ford
Teresa Walling, Cheyenne
Forgotten Memories
My Dream Car
Gabby in her Mercedes
Old Pickups
Trudy Craft, Basin
Robin Riesland, Newcastle
Ben Mason, Newcastle
Laura Mattke, Gillette
Larry’s Chevelle
My Great American Race Favorite –Bugatti!
Johnny Chavez, Torrington
Been There Awhile
Jerry Longobardi, Meeteetse
Hidden in the Root Cellar
Toby Sheets, Powell
American Muscle
Jenny Pierson, Moorcroft
BUTCH CASSIDY AT JAKEY’S FORK
DUBOIS MAY 17 9AM
Join us at the museum before departing for the Jakey’s Fork Homestead where we will start the morning with biscuits and a cup of cowboy coffee while Carolyn Gillette and Cheryl O’Brien acquaint us with the history of this area. Then we will visit historic places along the Jakey’s Fork, including the cabin where Butch Cassidy spent the Christmas of 1889, a 100-year old schoolhouse, the original Dubois Post Office site and the old Atlantic Yellowstone Pacific Road used by early travelers!
Tickets: $15
Call to register. Spaces are limited. Please bring a sack lunch.
Information: Dubois Museum • 307-455-2284
01 | SOUTHEAST
CENTENNIAL
THURSDAY-MONDAY
Nici Self Historical Museum: 12-4pm. Explore museum grounds and exhibits. Free. Info: niciselfmuseum.com.
CHEYENNE
MAY 17-18
26th Annual Cheyenne Mineral Gem Show: Sat. 9am-5pm. Sun. 10am-4pm. Archer Complex, Building M, 3801 Archer Parkway. Two-day rock show for all ages! With over 25 vendors, explore rough rock, faceted and cabochon jewelry, crystals, fossils and more from around the world. Enjoy a silent auction, kid's area, live demonstrations and more. Info: Jan Shively, 509-953-0634.
CHUGWATER
THURSDAYS
Acoustic Jam Session: Stampede Saloon & Eatery music venue open for jam sessions. Info: 307-422-3200, stampedefun@aol.com.
ONGOING
Live Music: Stampede Saloon & Eatery. Weekend performances. Info: 307-422-3200, stampedefun@aol.com.
ENCAMPMENT
MAY 4
2025 Monthly Public Shoot Sporting Clay: 9am-3pm. Spur Outfitters Shooting Range, 3135 WY 230. Sporting clay, multiple station course, and private and personal shooting times for all shooting sports available. Info: Spur Outfitters, 307-327-6505, info@spuroutfitters.com.
TUESDAYS-SATURDAYS
Grand Encampment Museum: 10am-4pm. Main Gallery and GEM store open. Info: 307-327-5308.
LARAMIE
MAY 6-7
Next Frontier Energy Summit: Marion H. Rochelle Gateway Center, University of Wyoming. This two-day summit is more than just an educational event – it’s a gathering place for energy innovators, researchers, developers and industry stakeholders to connect and collaborate. By bringing together experts from diverse sectors, the summit fosters meaningful discussions and strengthens Wyoming’s energy industry as a whole. Registration is now open. Info: Emily Sorensen, emily@em-poweredsolutions.com, 307-222-9481, wyoenergy.org/ energy-summit.
MEDICINE BOW
ONGOING
Museum and Gift Shop: 8:30am-4:30pm. 405 Lincoln Highway. Info: 307-379-2383.
RAWLINS
MAY 10-11
RSC GLOCK Shootout Outdoor Match: Sat. 8am-Sun. 2pm. Rawlins Shooting Complex, 1616 Harshman St. The perfect balance of friendly competition and competitive challenges. GSSF offers a place for all GLOCK enthusiasts to compete with their family and friends. From first-time owners to seasoned professionals, GSSF offers a fun and safe environment for those looking to compete with other GLOCK community members. Pre-register online. Info: 770-437-4718, gssf.pro/outdoor-matches.
SARATOGA
MAY 17
C.J. Box Book Signing: 2-4pm. 104 Constitution Ave. Fans of C.J. Box will be excited to meet the author during a book signing for the release of “Battle Mountain,” the latest in his Joe Pickett series. Free. Info: 307-326-5511, saratogamuseumwy.com.
MAY 22-26
First Annual Wine and Food Festival at Brush Creek Ranch: Thu.–Mon. 1pm-9pm. The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch, 64 Brush Creek Ranch Rd. Indulge in an unparalleled gastronomic journey during a four-night, all-inclusive retreat crafted for wine and culinary connoisseurs. Nestled in an opulent setting, this festival boasts a lineup of award-winning guest chefs and world-renowned winemakers. Savor exquisite culinary creations paired with the finest wines as you immerse yourself in a symphony of flavors, aromas and live music. Elevate your senses with curated tastings, masterclasses and intimate dining experiences, all designed to create unforgettable moments. Prices vary. Info: 307-327-5284, guestservices@brushcreekranch.com.
MAY 24
Annual Dinner Meeting: 5-8pm. Hotel Wolf, 101 E. Bridge Ave. Join us for a delicious meal and historical presentation. Drinks 5pm, meeting 5:30pm, dinner and presentation 6pm. Tickets $45. Info: 307-326-5511, saratogamuseumwy.com.
02 | NORTHEAST
BUFFALO
THURSDAYS
Bluegrass Jam Session: 6:30pm. Occidental Saloon. Free. Info: 307-684-0451.
CLEARMONT
MAY 31
Ucross Founder’s Day: 11am-2pm. The Ranch at Ucross, 30 Big Red Ln. Join us for a special celebration of community, the creative process and the legacy of our founder, Raymond Plank. Enjoy an afternoon of live performances, artist studio tours and delicious food on our beautiful High Plains campus. This free, family-friendly event is open to all. Parking is limited. Carpooling is encouraged. Info: Clearmont Ucross Foundation, bit.ly/ucrossfoundersday, 307-737-2291.
GILLETTE
MAY 2-3
Campbell County Master Gardener Tree Sale: Fri. 4-7pm. Sat. 8am-3pm. Rockpile Ice Arena, 501 W. 1st St. Preorders available at the UW Extension Office. Prices vary. Info: 307-682-7281.
MAY 31
Campbell County Master Gardeners Fruits and Vegetables Class: 1pm. George Amos Memorial Building, 412 S. Gillette Ave. Free. Info: 307-682-7281.
THROUGH MAY 7
Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites Exhibit: Mon.-Sat. 8am-5pm. Rockpile Museum, 900 W. 2nd St. Free. An imaginative book-based exhibit experience for children that we are excited to unveil to Campbell County and the surrounding areas, provided by a grant from Campbell County Community Public Recreation District. Storyland, a 1,500 sq foot exhibit, is designed to guide visitors to the discovery that it is never too early to begin the love of reading, and provides adults with tools for cultivating literacy through everyday activities. Info: Heather Rodriguez, 307-682-5723, campbellcountywy.gov/2169/ Rockpile-Museum.
THROUGH SEPTEMBER
Dramatic Moments: Frederic Remington’s Early Engravings, 1882-1893: Mon.-Sat. 8am-5pm. Rockpile Museum. Created by Lee Silliman - curator of “Hurrah for the Cowboy” - this exhibit illustrates Western frontier life. Featuring 38 vintage engravings that launched Frederic Remington's career. Remington’s consummate skill in rendering the horse in motion is prominently demonstrated in these engravings. Works such as “The Last Lull in the Fight” demonstrate Remington’s creative imagination and won him the silver medal at the Paris International Exposition. Free. Info: Justin Horn, 307-682-5723.
THIRD WEEK OF EVERY MONTH
Open Mic Nite: 6-9pm. Thu. or Fri. depending on the schedule. Frontier Auto Museum. Free. All musicians are welcome. We supply the stage, mic and speakers. Bring your voice and/or instrument for an enjoyable evening under the neon lights. Upcoming dates will be posted on facebook.com/frontierauto. Info: Ryan Swanson, 307-686-5667, relics@frontierauto.net.
ONGOING
Ava Community Art Center: Exhibits and workshops. Info: 307-682-9133, avacenter.org.
HULETT
TUESDAYS
Children’s Storytime: 10:3011:30am. Hulett Library. Info: 307-467-5743.
MONDAY-THURSDAY
5 Mile Walking Exercise Class: 4:45-6pm. Hulett Library. Info: 307-467-5743.
MONDAY-FRIDAY
Senior Exercise Class: 9-10am. Hulett Library. Info: 307-467-5743.
ONGOING
Hulett Museum and Art Gallery: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm. Sat. 12-4pm. Free. Info: 307-467-5292.
MOORCROFT
WEDNESDAYS
Moorcroft Branch Library Activities: 10am storytime, 4pm afterschool craft, 7pm AA meetings. Please use the downstairs entrance. Info: 307-756-3232.
THIRD THURSDAY OF MONTH
Adult Book Club: 1pm. Moorcroft Branch Library. New book each month. Stop by the library for your copy. Info: 307-756-3232.
MONDAY-FRIDAY
West Texas Trail Museum: 9am-5pm. Info: 307-756-9300.
ONGOING
Senior Center Events: 9am coffee and rolls on Wednesdays. 9am toenail clinic and 6pm dinner every fourth Thursday. Info: 307-756-9550.
NEWCASTLE
THIRD SATURDAYS
Weston County Democrats: 2pm. Weston County Library. Info: 307-941-1822, weston.wyodems.net.
FRIDAYS Bingo: 7:30pm. VFW Hall. Free.
SECOND AND FOURTH
WEDNESDAYS
Gigi’s Closet: 9am-1:30pm. First United Methodist Church. Gently loved clothing available for babies to adults. Info: 307-746-4119.
ONGOING
Anna Miller Museum: 8am-4pm. Closed on holidays. 401 Delaware Ave. Free. Info: 307-746-4188.
SHERIDAN
MAY 2
Bighorn Jazz Orchestra: 7:15pm. Kinnison Hall, Whitney Center for the Arts, 1 Whitney Way. Formerly known as the Whitney Center Jazz Orchestra, the Bighorn Jazz Orchestra is the professional big band in residence at Sheridan College directed by Dr. Eric Richards. Info: 307-675-0360, arts@sheridan.edu.
MAY 3
2nd Annual Gem and Mineral Show: 10:15am-2:15pm. Ramada Plaza, 1809 Sugarland Dr. Vendors of all kinds will be there with rough rock, amethyst, jewelry, gemstones, slabs, fossils and more! Interactive kids area. Info: Eddie White, 406-413-1136.
MAY 8
2025 Keystone Awards: 5-9pm. WYO Theater, 42 N. Main St. The Keystone Awards celebrate and honor community members who have demonstrated a lifetime commitment to improving the lives of those in Sheridan County. Tickets $75, available through the WYO Theater Box Office. Info: The Hub on Smith, 307-672-2240.
Sheridan College POPS Concert ft. Tris Munsick & The Innocents: 7:15pm. Kinnison Hall, Whitney Center for the Arts, Sheridan College, 1 Whitney Way. The 9th Annual POPS Concert is a family-friendly concert celebrating music by Sheridan College students and community musicians in the Symphony Band and Jazz Ensemble Big Band, plus solo performances by graduating SC Music students and alumni. Directed by Dr. Eric Richards. Free and open to the public. Info: Arts at Sheridan College, 307-675-0360.
MAY 10-11
Driving Clinic: Sat. 9am through Sun. 1pm. CHAPS Equine Assisted Services, 501 US Hwy 14. CHAPS is sponsoring a horse driving clinic that will show both beginning and intermediate drivers the proper techniques for horse driving. Info: chapswyo.org, 307-673-6161.
MAY 13
SCLT Explore History-Early Electricity in Sheridan County: 10-11:30am. The Hub on Smith, 211 Smith St. Join SCLT History Program Manager Kevin Knapp for a program focusing on early electric plants in Sheridan and Dayton. This program will not feature the Acme Power Plant. Free and open to the public. Info: Sheridan Community Land Trust, 307-673-4702.
MAY 17
AMNACS Ruck Race: 8am-2pm. Black Tooth Park, W. 5th St. Ruck race to raise funds for Veteran Village - AMNACS. Do a 5- or 10-mile run with light or heavy weight, not including water. Several age divisions. Great warm up for the Big Horn Trail Run! Info: AMNACS, zeffy. com/en-US/ticketing/ruck-race--2025, 307-683-6052.
NAMI Walks Sheridan: 9am-12pm. Whitney Commons Park, 320 W. Alger St. Walk for mental health awareness - 0.5, 1.2 or 1.8 miles. Together, we make a difference! Info: NAMI Sheridan, namiwalks.org, 210-452-1691.
MAY 20
SCLT Explore History-Early Electricity in Sheridan County: 10:30am-12pm. The Hub on Smith, 211 Smith St. Join SCLT History Program Manager Kevin Knapp for a program focusing on early electric plants in Sheridan and Dayton. This program will not feature the Acme Power Plant. Free and open to the public. Info: Sheridan Community Land Trust, 307-673-4702.
10th Annual Ignite Conference: 8am-5pm. Sheridan College, 1 Whitney Way. This conference provides the opportunity for professionals at every level to gain innovative ideas, learn about best practices and acquire vital information to spark their professional development and business growth. Choose from seminars on marketing, human resources, business growth, customer service and more. Info: Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce, sheridanwyomingchamber.org, 307-672-2485.
MAY 31
Sheridan Outdoor Youth Event: 8:45am. 89 Keystone Rd. Free event for kids ages 6 to 16! Are you looking for a fun outdoor activity for your kiddo with chances to learn new skills and make new friends? Lessons on archery, duck calling, fly casting and more! Info: Frosty, Sheridan County Sportsmen’s Association, 307-751-0141.
SATURDAYS
Landon’s Farmer’s Market: 10am. Landon’s Greenhouse, 505 College Meadows Dr. Info: 307-672-8340.
SUNDANCE
FOURTH THURSDAY
OF THE MONTH
Lunch Brunch Book Club: 11:30am. Crook County Library. Join us for an adult book discussion. Free. Info: Shannon, 307-283-1008.
WEDNESDAYS
Storytime: 10:30am. Crook County Public Library. Info: Tonia, 307-283-1008.
UPTON
SECOND TUESDAYS
Veteran Breakfast: 8am. Upton Senior Center. Free. Info: Gary Barnes, 307-468-9251.
FIRST AND THIRD WEDNESDAYS
Bingo at Senior Center: 6:30pm. $10 for 10 cards. Info: 307-468-9262.
ONGOING
Senior Center Activities: 1113 2nd St. 12pm lunch Mon.-Fri. for $4. Call for reservation before 9am at 307-468-2422 or 712-400-9056. 9am coffee and treats on Tuesdays. 9am exercise program every Tues. and Fri.. 5:30pm card elimination and potluck every third Mon. Info: 307-468-9262.
ONGOING
Red Onion Museum: 8am-4pm. Closed holidays. 1920 HWY 16. Free. Info: 307-226-2873, redonion@gmail.com.
WYARNO
MAY 25
Puzzling Competition: 2:15-5:15 pm. Wyarno Bar & Grill, 1041 Wyarno Rd. Compete head to head to assemble a 500 piece puzzle against other teams! Prizes for the first-place teams. Info: 307-737-2510.
03 | NORTHWEST
CODY
MONDAY-SATURDAY
Cody Country Art League Gallery: 9am-5pm. 836 Sheridan Ave. Info: 307-587-3597.
DUBOIS
MAY 1
Shippen Family Legacy: 2pm. Dubois Museum. Meet the Shippen brothers as they share memories, stories and history of their great-grandparents and family with local historian Cheryl O’Brien. The Shippen family were early Dubois homesteaders who built several town businesses, including the Rustic Pine Tavern. Free. Info: Dubois Museum, 307-455-2284.
MAY 30
Wild Plants of the Mason Draw: 10am. Dubois Museum. Join us at the museum where we will depart for Mason Draw near Dubois. Botanists Lynn Stewart and Dr. Randall Terry will be our guides to identify the Spring blossoms and rare plants native to this region. $15, limited spaces. Please bring a sack lunch. Call to reserve your spot. Info: Dubois Museum, 307-455-2284.
THURSDAYS
Farmer's Market: 4-6pm. Headwaters. Info: Twila Blakeman, 307-851-0785.
THIRD WEDNESDAYS
Wyoming Health Fairs Monthly Wellness Screen/Blood Draw: 7:30-10am. Dubois Medical Clinic. Appointments encouraged. Info: 307-455-2516, whf.as.me/dubois.
GREYBULL
SECOND SATURDAYS
Greybull Ladies Coffee: Greybull Library. Info: 307-765-2100.
HYATTVILLE
MAY 25
21st Annual Cowboy Carnival Fundraiser: Hyattview Community Center. This family event is packed with activities, including the 20th Annual Quilt Show, a Sharpshooter Contest, sheepdog demonstrations, a 5K/1K race, and kids' games like the BB Gun Shoot. The day wraps up with a live auction to support the community facility and a delicious ranch BBQ featuring locally raised meats, homemade pies and ice cream. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for kids 12 and under, or $35 for an immediate family. This includes all the events and the meal. Info: hyattvillecommunitycenter@gmail.com.
LANDER
MAY 22
Lander 100 Years Ago – 1925: 7pm. Pioneer Museum. Join the staff of the Pioneer Museum for this Wyoming Community Bank Discovery Speakers Series program. Randy Wise will give an illustrated talk on what life was like in
SUBMIT AN EVENT
Send complete information by
MAY 15!
Send events occurring in July by May 15.
Be sure to include the date, title, description, time, cost, location, address and contact information for each event.
Photos are always welcome.
Lander back in the year 1925. FREE. Info: Pioneer Museum, 307-332-3339.
MAY 24
Being a Pioneer Kid: 1-3pm. Pioneer Museum. Bailey Tire/Pit Stop Children’s Exploration Series is hosting a day of education and fun for children to see what it was like to be a kid in a pioneer family. We will have a small talk on what life was like, and then make some toys that a pioneer kid would have enjoyed and play some pioneer games. $2 per child, with limited enrollment. Info: Pioneer Museum, 307-332-3339. Lander Main Street Trek: 10am-12pm. Pioneer Museum. Pioneer Museum Director Randy Wise will lead this Wind River Visitors Council Adventure Trek on Lander’s Main Street. Learn about Lander’s amazing Main Street History and the buildings and businesses that have called Lander home. $10 per person with limited space. Info: Pioneer Museum, 307-332-3339.
ONGOING
First Friday: 5pm art show reception. 6pm music. Middle Fork Restaurant. New artist and local musician each month. Info: 307-335-5035, facebook. com/MiddleForkCafe.
RIVERTON
MAY 24-25
Look for more events at wyomingrea.org/news.
QUESTIONS & SUBMISSIONS:
wren@ wyomingrea.org [307] 286-8140
214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001
wyomingrea.org/ wren-submissions
36th Annual Wyoming Weapons Collectors Gun Show: Doors open at 9am daily. Fremont County Fairgrounds. Admission $0-6. Join the Wyoming Weapons Collectors Association for a thrilling two-day event filled with a variety of collectors and vendors inside the Fremont Center! It’s your opportunity to explore an extensive collection of firearms and much more. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, 2A supporter, firearms collector or a beginner, there's something for everyone at this event. Find ammo, brass, powder, optics and many other accessories plus knives, archery, jewelry, coins, even the one-of-a-kind custom and the unexpected! Contact Laura at the Fremont County Fair Office for RV space reservation at 307-856-6611. Info: WyomingWeaponsCollectors.com.
MAY 31
Horned Owl Draper Raptor Experience: 11am-12pm. Riverton Museum. Visit us for this Children's Exploration Event for fun, educational activities and to see Teasdale the Horned Owl up close. There are fun games to play like finding the owl with its camouflage in photographs, trying to identify which feathers match the
owl's, and dissecting pellets while learning about their diets. Free. Info: Riverton Museum, 307- 856-2665.
WEDNESDAYS
Acoustic Music Jam: 6:30-8:30pm. Holiday Inn Convention Center. Free. Join in or listen as musicians and dancers perform. Info: 307-856-8100. PreK Tales & Tunes: 10:30am. Riverton Branch Library. Ages 3-5. Free. Info: 307-856-3556.
Starlight Storytime: 5:30pm. Riverton Branch Library. Ages birth to 5 years. Free. Info: 307-856-3556.
THURSDAYS
Toddler Move & Groove: 10:30am. Riverton Branch Library. Ages birth to 2 years. Free. Info: 307-856-3556. LEGO Club: 4-5pm LEGO Club. Riverton Branch Library. Grades 2-5. Free. Info: 307-856-3556.
MEETEETSE
MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS
Yoga: 10:30am. Meeteetse Recreation District. Info: 307-899-2698, meetrec.org.
MONDAYS
Toddler Storytime: After school. Meeteetse Library. All kids grades 1+ not in school. Legos, board games, crafts, stories, songs and more. Info: 307-868-2248.
POWELL
MAY 1
Exhibit Opening: 5:30pm. Homesteader Museum. The Civilian Conservation Corps in Park County, Wyoming. Info: 307-754-9481, homesteader@parkcouty-wy.gov.
MAY 11
Community, Conversation and Crafts: 12-4pm. Homesteader Museum. Info: 307-754-9481, homesteader@parkcouty-wy.gov.
MAY 30
Book Club: 9am. Homesteader Museum. Discussing “Ridgeline” by Michael Punke. Info: 307-754-9481, homesteader@parkcouty-wy.gov.
THERMOPOLIS
SECOND SATURDAYS
Great Until 8!: 4-8pm. This event showcases the businesses who are staying open until 8pm or later in town. Shop after 5pm and enter in for a chance to win $100 gift certificates valid at the business with the winning receipt. Info: 917-589-7852, mainstreetthermopolis@gmail.com.
04 | SOUTHWEST
LYMAN
THURSDAYS
Storytime: 11am. Lyman Branch Library. All ages welcome. Free. Info: 307-787-6556, uintalibrary.org.
MOUNTAIN VIEW
MONDAYS
Cub Scout Pack 7798 Meeting: 3:45pm. Presbyterian Church on 3rd Street. We are always accepting new boys who are in grades 1-5. Info: MarNae, 307-677-2566.
WEDNESDAYS
Storytime: 11am. Uinta County Library. Info: 307-782-3161.
ONGOING
Community Classes: Valley Learning Center. Fitness, computer, workforce and kids’ classes are available. Times and prices vary. Info: 307-782-6401, valleylearningcenter.coursestorm.com.
BEYOND THE BORDER | SW
MANILA, UTAH
MAY 17-18
Flaming Gorge Fish Derby: Lucerne Valley Marina, Lake Flaming Gorge. This is one of the largest freshwater fishing derbies in the USA with up to 400 teams competing in eight categories and also for the largest fish of the derby. Entry fee per team is $200 and each team can consist of 2-3 people. Cash prizes amounting to $25,000 will be paid out for placing in the seven categories and largest fish takes home $2,000. You’ll also have a chance to win other great prizes including a trolling motor, camping and fishing gear, gift certificates and much more. Cash and prizes will be awarded based on the number of entries. Kick off the summer with a great tournament and support your local businesses and sponsors. Info: flaminggorgefishderby.com.
WREN CLASSIFIED ADS ARE $0.75 PER SIX CHARACTERS
CONTACT: SHAWNA@GOLINDEN.COM 970-221-3232
MISCELLANEOUS
Wyoming Weapons Collectors 36th Annual Memorial Weekend Gun Show. May 24-25. Fremont County Fairgrounds, 1010 Fairgrounds Rd, Riverton, WY. Sat 9-5pm. Sun 9-3pm. Win a gun! Drawing at 2pm Sun. Must be present to win. 1 raffle entry with each paid admission! Adults $6. Kids 12 and under FREE w/adult paid admission. More info online at wyomingweaponscollectors.com.
FREE MATERIALS. When church/government unite, enforcing Sunday law, the mark of the Beast is here! Don’t be deceived, be informed! Leave mailing address only. TBSM, PO Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540, tbsmads@yahoo.com, 1-888-211-1715.
WANTED
We Pay Cash For Mineral & Oil/Gas Interests producing & nonproducing. 800-733-8122.
WANTED CJ or Wrangler reasonably priced. Any condition but rusted. 800-316-5337.
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.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
Riddle Me This
An umpire and a catcher. The man is a baseball player running the bases.
king of the jungle!
The head of a Lamb, the middle of a pIg, the hind of a buffalO and the tail of a dragoN.
letter “n.” wiNdow - widow | door - doNor
THE BLACK
A true story about growing up on a Wyoming ranch.
BY MARIE ANTOINETTE HAINES
Spring in Wyoming is a time when the earth explodes with color and life. It brings the excitement of crisp breezes, the gentle touch of warm sun on your skin and the promise of breaking free from the harsh, icy grasp of winter. Oh, how I love this land and the unbridled freedom it offers! Standing on the highest ridge looking over rolling hills and valleys, I can see eternity and beyond. People and animals alike seem to shed the burden of winter’s cold and break out with new hope and the sheer joy of just being alive.
I was blessed to grow up on a ranch located in the southeastern corner of Wyoming. Every day was alive with excitement. To be a young girl on a thriving ranch brought many adventures to dream about but each day also supplied an abundance of work to be done. Horses needed to be brought into the barn for riding and training, cattle needed to be sorted and moved to spring pastures. Baby calves were being born daily. Then after the calving was complete the new bulls were bought and delivered.
We rarely had more than three bulls at a time because ours was not a ranch that focused on raising bulls. We only purchased enough bulls to assure a good calf crop each spring. Usually, these bulls would be bought and then sold after breeding season, but every now and then there was a special one. Something about him would snag your heart. He would be the big one with a deep bellowing call that could take your breath away, yet he loved to be petted and was an absolute chicken at heart; or he would be the one who let us pull on his horns and scratch his head as though he was the family dog … but this is a story about the one that broke your heart.
I was 11 the spring that he arrived. He was a young, stocky, solid Black Angus bull who would be added to the Range cattle herd. The calves produced by this herd needed to be tough enough to make it through the harsh Wyoming winters and thrive on the rugged, rocky land. His home was to be the Canyon Pasture, so named because it had a huge, beautiful canyon running through it. The cliffs were steep, and several trails lined the sides of the canyon leading from the high pasture and deep into the spring-fed canyon below. If there were such a thing as “Critter Heaven,” this would be it! For this place was home to wildlife of every kind.
Horseback was the only way to travel in this uncharted land with all its secret trails and hidden valleys. There was always some part of the Glory of God waiting around every bend. Mountain lions, bobcats, foxes and coyotes roamed this area and rattlesnakes slept in the rocks and hid in the tall grass. A newborn fawn might be tucked away under the pointed stalks of a soap weed or sagebrush. Eagles and hawks called the sky their own and even the grass under our feet held the delight of tiny, speckled eggs or fragile baby birds.
My sister, Bettyanne, was the most accomplished rider at the time. She was 16 and could ride any horse on the ranch. This summer, she had taken to riding a big, rouge horse named Marv. It was said that his bloodlines traced back to the horses used in the United States Calvary. Marv threw most of his riders. Even the men were afraid of him, but under my sister’s gentle hands, he performed like a pro.
My sisters and I rode the range every day to check on the cattle. It was during one of these cattle checks that “The Black” could not be found. We were concerned but not overly worried. He could have been in any one of the many ravines that ran through the expansive land. Bettyanne decided that she would go back the next day around “watering time,” which was when the cattle made their way to the huge tank that the windmill pumped water into. This windmill sat on the top ridge of Lone Tree Canyon. We felt sure that he would be back with the
herd by then. But he wasn’t, and that’s when we began to worry.
The next day passed and still another. He did not return. Each day brought more frustration and worry. Our favorite and most treasured bull was gone without a trace. Bettyanne wore out every horse we had searching for him. A week had passed and still, nothing.
The last day that she went out to search for The Black was just like any other, with a blue sky kissed by the fluff of summer clouds and the warmth of the sun on horse and rider. This day, she was riding our swiftest horse. His name was “Pinto” but Bettyanne lovingly called him “Pinten.” He was a brown and white beauty who would work his heart out for you. Pinten and Bettyanne headed out, yet again, to look for The Black. She was determined to search every cave and crevice to find him, and find him she did. He was at the bottom of one of the deep canyon draws that ran through the pasture above. He was standing in the shallow spring, with two broken legs, torn and tattered but happy to see her. He had survived a terrible fall down the steep canyon walls and landed in the spring waters. She spoke with tears in her voice and with a whispered prayer, she promised to return. As she turned to race home, she could hear him call to her in his weak, low bellow, as if to question why she would leave him. The wild run home was one of desperation and joy. She had the inexperience of youth hoping that he could be saved.
We drove down the winding hair-pin curve into Lone Tree Canyon. Stopping next to the tall cliffs, we had to leave the pick-up and climb the trails on foot to the spring where she had found him. I will never forget what we saw that day. Our pet, our big, burly, black bull was still standing when we arrived. I marveled that he could even stand at all. Trusting in his human friends, he allowed us to touch and pet him. There was no hope for this magnificent animal to survive. The Black would have to be put down. My young heart felt such heavy sorrow. I knew that I would never again hear that deep voice bellow in the evening. Only in my memory would I see this black beauty stroll the pastures.
It was during one of these cattle checks that “The Black” could not be found.
The oncoming days brought more cattle to roam the grassy meadows and rugged canyons. We continued to spend cool mornings and hot afternoons on horseback riding the pastures, counting cattle, checking fences and windmills … long days of doing what needs done on a working cattle ranch. Then came the fall branding, changing seasons, winter solace, a new year and the spring thaw. The cycle was coming back around bringing the miracle of newborn calves. Then it happened, one by one they came, black as night. Strong and sturdy. As I gazed at these babies, I saw him. He was there in the newness of life that death could not conquer and once again, my spirit soared.
We saw her coming out of a cloud of dust churned up by Pinten’s pounding hooves. He’s alive! It didn’t seem that it could be true. Bettyanne gave Pinten a hug and a well-deserved turn out to rest, then she quickly mounted Marv. My parents packed the pickup and my younger sister Patricia and I jumped in. We raced for Lone Tree Canyon with Bettyanne and Marv leading the way.
With the passing of the years and all the space between then and now, memories come and go like lazy summer days. Some are fleeting but some stay forever. Some even teach great lessons. Lessons about how gentleness can be found in great strength, and that even the hard things in life have a way of growing you and teaching you and softening your heart. W
Marie grew up on a ranch east of Chugwater. Born and raised in Wyoming, she is planning on publishing a collection of true stories that she has written about life on a Wyoming cattle ranch.
TIC-TAC-TOE ROCKS & CHALK
Create two sets of game pieces. You will want four rocks in each set.
Decorate the rocks in each set to match, like one set as ladybugs and one set as bumblebees. Or two types of flowers, different shapes, or different colors. You could do X and O, of course!
INSTRUCTIONS:
Head outside! Use your chalk to draw big tic-tac-toe grids, small grids, and grids with squiggly lines, just for fun.
Game on! Challenge your kids to be the first to get three in a row. Have them count the game pieces as they lay them down, and try the different grids to see if that makes a difference in whether the game is easier or harder.
Done with tic-tac-toe? Use your rocks and chalk for hopscotch!
