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It’s been a while since I’ve written about the governing principles under which all rural electric cooperatives operate. However, over the past year leading up to the legislative session which wrapped up earlier this month, I, along with your elected cooperative directors and management, had several meetings both in person and virtually with legislators from all around the state to talk about who the cooperatives are, what we do and why we do it.
Part of that discussion was about these seven cooperative principles:
1. Voluntary and open membership/ownership
2. Democratic member/owner control
3. Not-for-profit
4. Autonomy and independence
5. Education, training and information
6. Cooperation among cooperatives
7. Concern for community
Throughout the legislative session I continued to emphasize these principles but particularly that we are owned by those we serve and that we are not-forprofit because, unfortunately, there is a lot of ire towards the largest investorowned or for-profit utility in Wyoming, and in the legislature’s effort to address the concerns their constituents who are customers of this utility have, we, the rural electric cooperatives, have to explain why we are different. These two principles tended to resonate with many of the legislators and I believe helped us get a piece of very important legislation passed by a combined House and Senate vote of 109 in favor, 8 against and 7 absent. That’s a pretty overwhelming majority that supported us and who we are, what we do and why we do it.
The legislation I’m referring to is House Bill 192 Public Utilities-Wildfire Mitigation and Liability Limits. In a nutshell, the soon-to-be law says that utilities, be they cooperatives or investorowned, have to submit plans detailing what steps we’ll take to mitigate the risks of our utilities of starting wildfires. Those plans are created with input from rural fire districts, the state forester and other experts in wildfire mitigation, as well as public input through the Public Service Commission approval process. If those plans are approved and utilities document that they are implementing those plans, then frivolous lawsuits can’t be levied against those utilities.
This is to protect you, our members, because unfortunately the phrase “we are only one wildfire away from bankruptcy” has become too common across the west, and if that were to happen who would provide electricity to rural Wyoming? If we don’t follow those plans, then we should be held accountable. It’s the right balance that says do the right thing and if you do you won’t be unnecessarily punished. This is common sense legislation and I want to thank all of those cooperative member/owners who weighed in with their legislators, as well as those elected officials who supported the rural electric cooperatives who voted to support this legislation.
SHAWN TAYLOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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!
Electric co-ops use a variety of monitoring and automation technologies that improve power reliability, shorten outage times and reduce labor times for crews.
THE PAST FEW YEARS HAVE BEEN DEMANDING, ESPECIALLY FOR OUR WYOMING PRODUCERS.
Depression, anxiety and other trauma-related symptoms are common responses during a stressful time such as a global pandemic. You are not alone. Asking for help, seeking support, resources, education and simply reaching out are positive steps to take to deal with the overwhelming uncertainty that our agriculture, rodeo and farming community are faced with every day.
Align is partnering with the Wyoming Department of Agriculture to provide vouchers for up to six counseling sessions for individuals working in agriculture, rodeo and/or farming communities. For more information for yourself or your counselor please email Sheila Ricley at sricley@thealignteam.org
COUNSELING VOUCHER INSTRUCTIONS
Reimbursements for counseling services are available for services rendered between December 23, 2024, to December 30, 2026. Mental health professionals licensed in Wyoming are eligible to submit for reimbursement on behalf of their clients working in agriculture, rodeo and/or farming communities. Please send invoices and a W9 to Sheila Ricley at sricley@thealignteam.org for reimbursement consideration. Invoices must not include any personal information for the client.
INVOICES MUST INCLUDE:
Cost per session (less any insurance coverage) Dates of services Client connection to eligible industry Licensed mental health professional’s first and last name
This effort is funded through The Office of Governor Gordon’s Di American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding appropriated General Session 2023 HB0195.
DO MORE WITH A HEAT PUMP
Comfortably heat and cool your home more efficiently while saving money. When paired with proper insulation, you can save over 30 percent on your heating and cooling bills compared to conventional HVAC systems, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Both ducted and ductless heat pumps provide efficient HVAC solutions that will improve your home’s air quality while eliminating the need for combustible fuels.
DUCTED AND DUCTLESS SYSTEMS
Together with our members, we’re extending the benefits of electrification for schools, homeowners, businesses, agricultural producers, nonprofits and more. LEARN MORE AT WWW.TRISTATE.COOP/ELECTRIFY-AND-SAVE
BY WREN STAFF
We have all seen the AI-generated memes and images on social media, and commercials on television. There’s also new smart glasses and those ridiculous looking AR headsets. With more and more AI-powered technology coming to market, and no sign of slowing, it’s safe to say AI is here now and for the foreseeable future. And by “here” we mean Wyoming.
In fact, Wyoming experienced its own AI first last year when a 2024 mayoral candidate in Cheyenne, Victor Miller, planned to use a ChatGPT bot, which he named Vic for “Virtual Integrated Citizen,” to help run the city. Miller encouraged Cheyenne voters to “embrace the future,” saying in a post on the social media platform X that “there’s a new option this time around. There’s a new intelligence in town.” His reasoning was that the bot would be capable of processing vast amounts of data and of making unbiased decisions. In the end, Miller and Vic the bot did not win, but the campaign definitely brought the AI conversation home.
Wyoming’s cooperatives are taking a cautious approach to AI, focused on understanding the different tools that can make incremental improvements to their existing products and services.
Powder River Energy Corporation (PRECorp), which provides service to Campbell, Crook, Johnson, Sheridan and Weston counties, is at the forefront of Wyoming cooperatives’ AI adoption, with three key team members involved with AI inclusion in the co-op’s operations.
Business Intelligence Software Engineer Weston Mueller is responsible for the advancement of PRECorp’s data-driven decision-making capabilities, focusing on the development, management and execution of projects involving data engineering/architecture, data governance, software development and data science.
“We are at the early stages of using Microsoft AI products for mainly administrative tasks to drive efficiency. We record and transcribe many of our meetings, which allows for automated note taking and action item gathering, and allows people that miss the discussions to catch up quickly,” Mueller said. “Some also use CoPilot for drafting e-mail responses, managing tasks, summarizing documents and articles to ingest information quicker, and assisting with writing some code snippets for various tasks.”
PRECorp has also been using Machine Learning (ML) to significantly improve efficiencies over the last several years. ML is a subset or specific application of AI where algorithms are used to train AI models by providing them with datasets containing examples or historical data. The ML model learns the underlying patterns in the training data, which enables it to make predictions or decisions on new, unseen data.
The Business Intelligence team at PRECorp is led by Mueller but other departments such as Engineering also leverage AI with Brandon Riddle, Manager of System Planning and Protection, playing a major role. As part of a Department of Energy supported contest, the two teamed up with Quentin Rogers, VP of Engineering and Technical Services, to develop an inhouse ML model that looks at AMI meter data to help determine where there are connection issues on the system that will ultimately lead to failure.
“This is a huge efficiency and reliability driver for the cooperative that ultimately reduces future outages before they occur,” Riddle said.
Rogers is responsible for all engineering aspects at PRECorp, varying from design of new infrastructure to overall reliability of the system, load forecasting and more.
“We presently have a pilot program with a software company that is attempting to use ML to help us predict our system load profile a day ahead of time,” Riddle explained. “Having an accurate model of when our load will peak will allow us to operate our system differently in order to reduce our wholesale power supply costs that we can pass onto our members. Because of PRECorp's large industrial loads, predicting our load profile is much harder than many other cooperatives and utilities across the nation.”
Hear more from Rogers, Mueller and Riddle about using data to enhance
operations and maintenance on the rural electric cooperative distribution network at this link: bit.ly/Leverage-AMI-Data.
The main challenges or risks with AI align with cybersecurity risks to the electric grid. Successful AI models require high-quality data and proper documentation, as any inconsistencies or gaps in data can impact accuracy and reliability. “At PRECorp, we recognize that improving data quality is not just a requirement for AI – it’s a driver for better decision-making across all aspects of our operations,” Rogers explained.
“Cybersecurity and security of information in general is a very large concern and one that has to be monitored constantly,” Rogers said. “The ways that data is stored, aggregated and accessed need to be thought through and optimized in order to optimize costs and overall efficiency for both today and how the information may be used in the future.”
PRECorp is not concerned with AI taking over their workforce anytime soon. “We see it as another tool that will allow employees to be more efficient and provide even more value for our members,” Rogers said. “Like any tool or technology, there is a learning curve and an overall adoption curve, so managing that fits into PRECorp's values and commitment to developing its people.”
Wyoming has become a prime potential location for large data centers, largely due to the vast landscapes available to house them, low energy costs and business-friendly policies.
Rogers is positive about the state’s ability to support developments in AI.
“As a Wyoming native, I know that the state's can-do attitude will find ways to leverage the new technology to put it into practice where it is functionally making a difference in all aspects of energy and other everyday life within the state,” he said.
“The cooperatives across the state also offer an extremely reliable grid with reasonable rates that has excess capacity in some locations to support large loads such as data centers for those developers wishing to operate within the state.”
“PRECorp is excited about leveraging AI for long-term load forecasting that will help us plan and develop rates to keep costs low and provide what our members need when they need it,” Rogers explained. “AI is becoming commonplace enough that load forecasting models may eventually be accepted in regulatory settings where rates are established.”
PRECorp is also interested in leveraging AI with drone photos to help detect potential maintenance issues before they become outages or cause other issues. This can also aid in monitoring voltage and current information to electrically detect issues on the system before they can be seen visually, and also allow them to better forecast so they can control voltages and dispatch other sources in order to reduce losses on the system that ultimately reduce power costs for their members.
What is the difference between traditional AI and generative AI?
Traditional AI, also known as rule-based or narrow AI, is a type of artificial intelligence that uses pre-programmed rules to perform specific tasks. It's good at solving welldefined problems, but it can't adapt to new situations or create new ideas.
Generative AI can create new content, such as images, text, videos and music. It uses generative models that learn patterns from training data and then produce new data based on that input.
Some concerns with AI revolve around just how much energy is needed to help it function.
Data centers use more electricity than entire countries!
Domestic electricity consumption of selected countries vs. data centers in 2020 in TWh
AI systems, especially machine learning models like deep neural networks, require vast amounts of computing power during the training process. This intense computation relies on electricity from power grids. Data centers, the backbone of AI operations, are estimated to account for about 1% of global electricity use. In a data center, energy consumption is spread across several key areas.
The core of a data center, they perform intense computing tasks for AI, significantly contributing to energy usage.
Devices like routers and switches, necessary for connectivity, add to the overall energy consumption.
Used for housing vast amounts of data, storage systems require energy for operation and cooling.
Components like UPS and voltage regulators ensure steady power supply but also contribute to energy use.
Essential for regulating the temperature of servers, these systems are major energy consumers.
AI-enabled energy storage systems contribute to grid stability by responding in real-time to demand fluctuations, reducing strain during peak hours, and enhancing overall grid resilience. By leveraging AI algorithms and machine learning, energy storage facilities can adapt their operations to varying demand patterns, grid conditions and renewable energy availability with realtime monitoring, predictive analytics and dynamic control of energy storage assets.
There are many artificial intelligence programs powering for different uses and with varying capabilities, and they can be hard to keep track of. Here are some of the current major players.
OpenAI is an artificial intelligence (AI) research organization founded by a number of investors, most notably Sam Altman and Elon Musk (Musk left OpenAI in 2018, but in early 2025 he made an unsolicited bid to purchase the organization, which was rejected).
• Founded: December 2015
• Headquarters: San Francisco, CA, USA
OpenAI’s release of ChatGPT, a Large Language Model (LLM) that generates dialogue and produces text, is widely considered the catalyst for heightened global interest in artificial intelligence.
• Released: November 2022
DALL-E is OpenAI’s image generation tool (text-to-image; creating image from text) that runs within ChatGPT.
• Released: January 2021
• DALL-E 3 Released: August 2023
DeepSeek is a Chinese startup’s open-source AI model that uses a Mixture-of-Experts approach and functions like OpenAI’s ChatGPT. In early 2025, DeepSeek released a new model that combined a higher performance rate at a lower cost than its rivals, creating a stir in the global AI sector.
• Founded: May 2023
• Headquarters: Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
Google AI is a division of Google dedicated to artificial intelligence. It’s a collection of AI technologies that Google uses to improve its products and services such as search, maps, translate, smart reply and others.
• Founded: 2018
• Headquarters: Mountain View, CA, USA
Gemini, formerly known as Bard, is a generative artificial intelligence chatbot developed by Google. It can process and respond to text, images and audio, and is integrated with Google's applications and services, including Gmail, Google Drive and Google Workspace.
• Released: March 2023
Meta AI
Meta AI (formerly Facebook Artificial Intelligence Research) is a research division of Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook) that develops artificial intelligence and augmented and artificial reality technologies. Meta AI is baked into Meta’s apps (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, etc.).
• Founded: December 2015
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, CA, USA
Llama (Large Language Model Meta AI, formerly stylized as LLaMA) is a family of large language models (LLMs), and Meta’s answer to ChatGPT and Gemini.
• Released: February 2023
BOOK GIVEAWAY
Eugene “Gene” Gagliano wrote “My Fruity Friends” as a companion story to his beloved children’s book “My Veggie Friends.” The new book, which Gagliano also illustrated, builds on the magic of food, friends and fun.
Gagliano has captured the whimsical spirit of each vegetable and fruity character with his artistic style and poetic flare. The verses are witty and entertaining for all ages! Coupled with his original artwork, these books will spark your child’s imagination. Who knew garden crops had stories to tell?
“My Veggie Friends” and “My Fruity Friends” are amusing books of poetry for families to enjoy together. The way in which Gagliano presents these characters will leave your children with a better understanding of the world of fruits and vegetables as he takes the reader along for a fun ride.
BOOK GIVEAWAY
For the book giveaway this month, we have a copy of both “My Veggie Friends’’ and Gagliano’s new “My Fruity Friends.” Enter to win the set and help your little ones learn about healthy eating, and how eating healthy is a lot of fun.
DECEMBER 2024 ISSUE AWAY FROM IT ALL: A WYOMING LOVE STORY BOOK WINNERS:
Good shelters can be reused year after year. Some bear dens, for example, have been occupied by a bear every year for hundreds of years! An individual bear will rarely use the same den twice, so bears essentially take turns using a den each year.
All living organisms require essentials like food, water, shelter and air in order to survive. Safe and protective shelter is necessary every day of the year, but it is especially important during Wyoming’s harsh winters. Some animals, like prairie dogs, are adept burrowers and can make their own shelters by excavating underground tunnels. Not all animals have this skill, however, and appropriate shelter can be difficult to find. Luckily, some animals are willing to share their safe spaces with others.
The sharing of space sometimes even jumps taxonomic boundaries! Western tiger salamanders survive winters and summers by hunkering down underground. Although they can dig into the ground to burrow themselves, it’s easier for them to take advantage of existing mammal burrows. They have been documented resting inside prairie dog, ground squirrel and deer mice burrows – even while the mammal is still using it, too! They both seem to tolerate the other’s presence without conflict. COOPERATION IN NATURE
Sometimes, different species share a shelter at the same time. Winter is especially tough for reptiles, since they cannot survive at low temperatures. They need to find safe and warm shelters to survive the cold winters, but these kinds of safe winter dens are not always abundant on the landscape. Luckily, snakes are happy to share these spaces with other snakes, even other species of snakes. Communal dens have been documented with multiple species like eastern yellow-bellied racers, bullsnakes and prairie rattlesnakes riding out winter together.
BY DR. MEGAN BEAVERS
Walter and Bently are some of the first doodles I ever met. They have been around since before the poodle mixes became the fad. Walter is a big boy with curly and puffy hair that took more from the poodle side, while unrelated Bently has a more coarse coat that molds easily into funny hair styles. Their owner adores them and is devoted to letting them have the best life possible.
Both the boys got to remain intact. They were solid gentleman. No silly boy behaviors that would make the owners decide otherwise. And thankfully they only came to me for their routine veterinary care.
But that sort of changed for both boys this last year. Bently first. He came in for difficulty urinating. And then it was noticed that he was peeing blood as well. We collected urine, checked some x-rays and did a good exam. After the series of
testing, it was determined that Bently had an enlarged prostate causing his clinical signs. A common problem in older intact male dogs. The condition is partly due to the long-standing amount of testosterone in the system leading to the enlargement. So, a general mainstay in treatment is to start by neutering the dog.
Bently had his procedure shortly after. All animals I spay or neuter get a green line tattoo. This is a universal symbol that “I’m fixed,” so veterinarians and shelters
can identify these animals as such, saving them unnecessary surgery (and the pain that goes with it) in the future. He went home missing two bits and sporting a new tattoo. His recovery was quick and easy and in no time his urinary issues were resolving and he was feeling much better.
Walter, however, not to be undone, waited several months until he decided to get sick as well. But in a totally different manner. He came in because he stopped eating and was breathing very rapidly. Most of the tests I did were inconclusive, except in listening to his heart. His heart rate was significantly faster than it should have been. Even though his ECG was normal and the heart looked normal on x-rays. I was very concerned that something was wrong. I didn’t want to not investigate the heart further but was limited with what equipment I had, and of course Walter decided to get sick on a Friday. After a long chat with his owner, it was decided to transfer him to an advanced clinic in Utah for further care and hospitalization.
Walter was greeted by their team eager to get to work. They started diving deeper into his mystery and monitoring his heart and adding tests to get a bigger
picture. About five new veterinarians in varying specialties all got involved in his care. And they were all stumped as well. As the referring vet, having those guys stumped made me feel better about the decision to transfer him. Walter spent the night heavily monitored.
The next day the consensus was still the same but the team was leaning towards a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), just no one could figure out where the inciting cause was. A repeat ultrasound finally gave a clue. There was inflammation now being seen around, and in, an enlarged prostate. They started him on some medications and he was discharged. However, two days later when I was able to see him again, Walter was still a sick boy. As a hail Mary we added another medication at a high dose to try and stop this inflammatory reaction. He would still need to be neutered, but he wasn’t stable enough for surgery yet.
Thankfully the additional medications started to help. His appetite slowly improved, his breathing and heart rate returned to normal, his bloodwork was trending in the right way and his weight was starting to rebound. There was a sigh of relief from both his owner and me. One last hurdle for Walter was neutering him. By the time he had surgery he was well into a great recovery. His procedure went well and he left with a matching tattoo just like his brother.
In an ironic life twist two doodle brothers both ended up with a disease of the same organ but presenting in two very different ways within months of each other. Thankfully these fluffy doodles have that devoted family and they get to enjoy oodles more years. W
Dr. Megan Beavers is a veterinarian in Farson and Green River.
every body. every time.
3
Preheat oven to 425°. Place biscuit mix in a large bowl. Cut in cream cheese and butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk until just moistened. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead gently 8-10 times. On a greased baking sheet, roll dough into an 18x12-inch rectangle. Spoon raspberries down center third of dough; sprinkle with sugar. On each long side, cut 1-inch-wide strips about 2 to 2 1/2-inch into center. Starting at one end, fold alternating strips at an angle across raspberries; seal ends. Bake until golden brown, 15-20 minutes. Remove to a wire rack to cool slightly. In a microwave-safe dish, microwave frosting on high until it reaches desired consistency, 5-10 seconds; drizzle over pastry. Makes 12 servings.
WREN STAFF
4 OZ CREAM CHEESE, ROOM TEMPERATURE, SOFT
2 TBS GRANULATED SUGAR
1 LARGE EGG, SEPARATED
1 TSP LEMON JUICE, OPTIONAL 1/2 TSP VANILLA EXTRACT, OPTIONAL
1 SHEET (ABOUT 8 OZ) PUFF PASTRY, THAWED BUT COOL
Preheat oven to 400°. Separate egg yolk from white. Whisk egg white. Mix soft cream cheese and sugar until smooth in a medium bowl. Stop the mixer. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. Add the egg yolk, lemon juice and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Unfold thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut into six equal pieces. Place rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon cream cheese filling onto the center of the puff pastry. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the whisked egg. (This helps the edges to brown.) Bake until the filling is set and the pastry is brown, about 18 minutes. Store leftovers wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Makes 6 Danish servings.
WREN STAFF
Preheat oven to 350°. Heavily grease a Bundt or fluted tube pan (12 cup capacity) with butter. Separate refrigerated biscuit dough and cut into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl or plastic bag, combine white sugar and cinnamon. Drop and roll each piece of dough, ensuring each piece is coated. Gently arrange in prepared pan. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter and half the remaining white sugar-cinnamon mixture, stirring on gentle heat until mixture just begins to boil. Immediately remove from heat. Stir until all of the sugars have dissolved. Do not overcook. Drizzle the warm mixture over the rolled dough balls in the pan. Bake about 30 minutes on center rack until tops are starting to crisp and turn golden brown. Keep an eye on while baking, as times may vary. Remove and let sit for 5 minutes before transferring to serving plate. Makes 12 servings.
WREN STAFF
Upgrade your bathroom, upgrade your life. With a new walk-in shower, you can make sure your bathroom ages as gracefully as you do. This shower was designed by experts, with you in mind, focusing on safety and convenience when it matters most. Discover how a walk-in shower can help reduce the risk of falling, giving you the freedom to enjoy your bathroom again.
✓ Commercial Grade Non-Slip Floor
✓ Easy-to-reach Shower Wand
✓ Professionally Installed in 1 day
✓ Fold Down Safety Seat
✓ Luxurious 8" Rainfall Shower Head
✓ Ergo L Shaped Grab Bar
✓ Lifetime Warranty
✓ Optional Barrier Free Wheelchair Accessible
BY KENDRA SPANJER
1.
2.
None of Wicked’s 10 Academy Award nominations would have been possible without the 1939 “Wizard of Oz” film. But how well do you know one of “the most-watched movies of all time?”
Complete each fact (or piece of movie magic lore) by filling in the missing word. Some letters have been provided for you! Then, collect all the letters that appear in circles and unscramble them to reveal a final message. Skip your way to the answers on page 37.
Number of Academy Award nominations earned by the 1939 film
Number of characters in this film played by actor Frank Morgan
3. E
Number of Wicked Witch lines cut from the film for being too scary
4. Pairs of ruby slippers used for filming
5. E
Last name of the actress passed over for the role of Dorothy
6. R
Real name of the canine actress who played Toto
7.
Actual color (alongside blue) of Dorothy’s gingham dress
8. I
Original color (according to the book) of Dorothy’s sparkling shoes
9. R
Metal used in the Witch’s green makeup, which intensified burns Margaret Hamilton sustained during one fiery exit
10. U
Metal dust used in the Tin Man’s silver makeup that resulted in Buddy Ebsen, the original actor cast in the role, to be replaced by Jack Haley (and metal paste made from the same substance)
11. T
Powdered substance used to color the Horse of a Different Color
12. O
Actual substance contained in the Tin Man’s oil can
13. L
Material that the Cowardly Lion’s 90-pound suit was made from
14. P
Material that the Cowardly Lion’s facial prosthetic was made from
15. A
Pattern on the Scarecrow’s facial prosthetic that was imprinted on Ray Bolger’s face for a year after filming
Q: What is number 4 on the American Film Institute’s 100 Greatest Movie Quotes of All Time?
Thousands of Americans are rediscovering normal freedom of movement thanks to a “miracle oil” capsule that’s outperforming hemp in promoting joint comfort.
According to the official figures from the CDC, more than 58 million Americans are living with joint discomfort. This epidemic has led to a search for alternative approaches – as many sufferers seek relief without the harmful side effects of conventional “solutions.”
Anti-aging specialist Dr. Al Sears is leading the way with a new formula he calls “the most significant breakthrough I’ve ever found for easing joint discomfort.”
The capsule is based on a “miracle oil” historically treasured for its joint healthsupporting properties. Marco Polo prized it as he blazed the Silk Road. And to this day, Ayurvedic practitioners rely on it to promote optimal joint health.
Now, with a modern twist backed by science, Dr. Sears is making this natural solution for joint health available to the public.
Your Body’s Hidden “Soothing System”
Joint health research changed forever with the discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in 1992. Up until that point, research on cannabinoids focused on psychoactive effects. Now, scientists were looking at a new way to fight occasional aches and pains.
Your ECS serves as a central “signaling system” that tells your body how to react to things you do every day. It controls several critical bodily functions such as learning and memory, sleep, healthy immune responses –and your response to discomfort.
A recent study revealed a direct link between the ECS and creaky, sore joints. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh studied the aging of mice with endocannabinoid deficiencies versus “normal” mice.
As they aged, the deficient mice had a whopping 60% more joint degeneration than the mice with a healthy ECS.
As the name suggests, the ECS responds to cannabis. At the time it was discovered, scientists assumed that was the best way to support it. But thanks to Dr. Sears’ all-natural solution, you can power up your ECS without marijuana.
“Calling it the ‘endocannabinoid system’ was a misnomer from the very beginning,” Dr. Sears explained. “Modern research reveals that you don’t need cannabis to activate this incredible system. You don’t need to ‘get high’ to get joint relief.”
A scholarly review found that plants and herbs that don’t produce mind-altering effects can support the ECS and help it maintain its healthy functions.
This includes common foodstuffs, such as kava, chocolate, black pepper, and most significantly – the star ingredient to Dr. Sears’ own Mobilify formula - frankincense.
Modern scientists say this natural ingredient meets “cannabinoid tetrad” – the signs used to determine if something supports the ECS. While it doesn’t produce a “high” like cannabis does, it binds to the same receptors to support a healthy response to discomfort.
All the Benefits of CBD –Without Cannabis
Indian frankincense, the chief ingredient in Mobilify, has been shown to provide all the benefits of cannabis without any feelings of sluggishness or sleepiness.
And studies show that users don’t have to wait long for the comfort they’re looking for.
In a study published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences, 60 patients with stiff knees took 100 mg of Indian frankincense or a placebo daily for 30 days. Remarkably, Indian frankincense “significantly” supported healthy joint function and relieved discomfort in as little as five days.
Additional research linked regular use to lasting comfort.
In another study, 48 participants were given an extract made from frankincense for 120days. When the results came in, researchers determined the extract strongly supported joint comfort – especially in the knees.
These results were all achieved without marijuana. Research continues to back up the idea that you can support smooth, strong, and healthy joints naturally – without tiredness or sluggishness.
Get Moving Again with Mobilify
Mobilify has already helped thousands of Americans stay on their feet and breeze through their daily activities with ease.
One user even reported getting results the same day it was used.
“Mobilify really helps with soreness, stiffness, and mild temporary discomfort,” Joni D. said.
Larry M, another user, compared taking Mobilify to living a completely new life.
“After a week and a half of taking Mobilify, the discomfort, stiffness, and minor aches went away…it’s almost like being reborn,” he said. Dennis H. said it helped him get back to his favorite hobby.
“I can attest to Mobilify easing discomfort to enable me to pursue my golfing days. Definitely one pill that works for me out of the many I have tried,” he said.
How to Get Mobilify
Right now, the only way to get this powerful, unique Mobilify formula that clobbers creaking joints without clobbering you is directly from Dr. Sears. It is not available in stores.
To secure your bottle of this breakthrough natural joint discomfort reliever, buyers should call with Sears Health Hotline at 1-800-2532584. “The Hotline allows us to ship the product directly to customers.”
Dr. Sears believes in this product so much, he offers a 100% money-back guarantee on every order. “Just send me back the bottle and any unused product within 90 days, and I’ll send you your money back,” said Dr. Sears.
The Hotline will be taking orders for the next 48 hours. After that, the phone number may be shut down to allow them to restock. Call 1-800-253-2584 to secure your limited supply of Mobilify. If you are not able to get through due to extremely high call volume, please try again! Call NOW to qualify for a significant discount on this limited time offer. To take advantage of this exclusive offer use Promo Code: WRENMB325 when you call.
BY GAYLE M. IRWIN
Kaycee, Wyoming, located in southern Johnson County in central Wyoming, is a community in which nearly everyone knows everyone else. Kevin and Judy Lund are one of those well-known couples, known for their longevity in the area and their kind and generous community spirit.
Kevin grew up on a family ranch about nine miles east of Kaycee. In addition to operating a livestock property, his father worked in the oil fields, and for 20 years, his mother drove the school bus. After his parents’ passing, he and Judy set up a scholarship in their honor.
“The scholarship program Kevin and Judy provide is very unique,” said Kaycee School principal Jake Evans. “It’s literally a scholarship to every kid to pursue whatever their passion is.”
Whether a student wants to enter the workforce immediately after graduation, attend a tech school, enter the military or pursue a college degree, as long as that student walks across the stage to receive a high school diploma, they receive a $500 scholarship. Giving each graduate who walks the stage without attaching other strings was important to the Lunds, Kevin said.
“It’s a nice bump after graduation,” Judy said.
About a dozen seniors are expected to attend graduation this spring.
Principal Evans considers the Lunds humble servant-leaders.
“That servant leadership they possess is a quality I would like to see more of our youth have,” he said. “It’s important that we have people like Judy and Kevin that are doing things like that for the community … [and] to help the next generation.”
Kevin and Judy help young people in other ways, such as employing them at the ranch. Sometimes they work for a few weeks on a specific project, an entire summer for longer-term work, or as ranch hands for many years. One young man, who started down a wayward path, worked as a ranch hand for a time; that man now considers Kevin “his second dad,” Judy said.
Kevin also helps the younger ones in and around town as “an ambassador” for Santa Claus, Principal Evans said.
Kevin serves as a board member of the Powder River Conservation District, and he recently stepped down as Area 1 Director for the Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts after holding that position for several years. He’s also served on the local fire department board.
His community involvement extends to music. Every June, Kaycee honors a local celebrity, the late singer/songwriter and noted bronc rider Chris LeDoux. Kevin plays the accordion in musical jam sessions along Main Street with other area residents, who bring guitars and fiddles. He and his fellow musicians also use their musical talents to entertain community residents at the senior center, and Kevin participates in “Pie and Praise” events at Grace Mission Baptist Church the fifth Sunday evening of the month.
“I’ve always enjoyed music,” he said. “My dad played the guitar and the mouth-harp together. My mom played the mandolin, and my brother played the rhythm guitar. The only thing left in the clothes closet was the accordion, so that’s what I got to play.”
For a time, he and his brother were part of a band. So was his father.
Kevin and Judy married nearly 29 years ago. They live on a 160-acre parcel along the Powder River that adjoins Kevin’s 400-acre family ranch. He and his brother inherited that land as well as 1,800 additional acres of pasture property north of their home. Kevin and Judy later acquired both parcels and raised livestock and hay.
This spring brings retirement. They will lease pastures on the original family property and travel more often. They plan to visit family members in and outside of Wyoming and go on RV camping adventures in the Bighorn Mountains and elsewhere. However, their land along the waterway and the town of Kaycee will remain home.
“I know I’m prejudiced, but I think this is the nicest little place on the river,” Kevin said.
Judy, who grew up in Salt Lake City and lived in Casper when she and Kevin met, adapted her life and embraced ranch living and working, and the community of about 300 people. She enjoys the land and its inhabitants. Bird feeders grace their home’s front yard. Old cottonwoods on the property provide nesting sites and roosting areas. Grasses and bushes offer food, and the river provides water. Judy enjoys nature photography, and several photographs she’s taken hang on the walls inside their home.
“I never saw wild turkeys roost in trees before [coming to the ranch],” Judy said.
When friends or family visit, she takes them around the ranch to view the stock and the wildlife. Sandhill cranes arrive on the property every spring, conducting mating dances, feasting on leftover grain, and nesting and raising young. Deer graze in pastures near the house, and geese glide along the river. Wildlife coexists with cows, horses, a llama and other livestock, enhancing the serene setting of bluffs and hillsides.
The Lunds bask in the solace of their property and the friendship of people living in the area.
“When something happens, a flood, fires, anything like that … everybody pitches in,” Kevin said.
“It’s comforting,” Judy stated. “This is a town of good people.” W
Gayle M. Irwin is a freelance writer based in Casper.
Vermont Farm Covered Bridge
Vicki Mann Olson, Powell
Exploring an Old Bridge
Laura Mattke, Gillette
Bridge Over Wando River
Melody Harris, Saratoga
Grandfather’s Mountain Mile High
Swinging Bridge
Heather McLaughlin, Upton
Golden Gate
Kellie Braunagel, Moorcroft
Bridges Most Traveled
Kellie Braunagel, Moorcroft
The Fishing Bridge
Easton Mason, Saratoga
Bright Angel Pack Bridge, Colorado River, Grand Canyon, Arizona
Jerry Longobardi, Meeteetse
Bridge Over Encampment River and Time
Lee Ann Stephenson, Riverside
The Classics
Tia Cranston, Moorcroft
Jericho Covered Bridge (1865)
Heather McLaughlin, Upton
Dreamy Morning
Sandra Lineberry-Sims, Sheridan
Built in 1917
Trudy Craft, Basin
Fort Laramie Bridge
Dedicated July 4, 1876
Rob McIntosh, Torrington
The New Moorhead Bridge Over Powder River
Charlene Camblin, Gillette
Mountain Bridge
Carrie Miller, Laramie
O’Dwyers Bridge, Limerick, Ireland
Cody Weatherly, Lingle
On My Way to Grandpa and Grandma’s House
Eva Brannian, Buffalo
GILLETTE APRIL 21
Create a cake inspired by one of the seven story books in the Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites Exhibit at the Rockpile Museum to compete to win prizes! AND we will have a cake walk during the event. Cake, cake and MORE CAKE!
Snowy Day | Tuesday | If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
The Tale of Peter Rabbit | Chicka Chicka Boom Boom | Abuela | Where’s Spot
Entry Fee: Free
Rules: Real cakes not allowed. Cakes must be decorated in an artificial cake form, such as Styrofoam or inverted cake pan.
Cakes due at the museum April 18 by 5pm. Open Public Judging 1-3pm.
Information: bit.ly/Cake-Contest
Penny, Rockpile Museum: 307-682-5723
Makala, Campbell County 4-H: 307-682-7281
THURSDAY-MONDAY
Nici Self Historical Museum: 12-4pm. Explore museum grounds and exhibits. Free. Info: niciselfmuseum.com.
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.
TUESDAYS-SATURDAYS
Grand Encampment Museum: 10am-4pm. Main Gallery and GEM store open. Info: 307-327-5308.
APRIL 4-5
Craft Fair: Friday 12-7pm; Saturday 9am-4pm. La Grange Memorial Building. 403 M St. Alison’s Pantry, microgreens, jewelry, cards, freeze dried food, wooden toys, linens, MT3D printing, clothes, handmade gifts from Colombia, books, Wyoming Brickworks-Buy•Sell•Trade Lego, baked goods and much more! Info: peggyoedekoven@gmail.com. 6th Annual Spring Craft Fair: 12-7pm on 4th; 9am-4pm on 5th. La Grange Elementary Gym, 100 D St. Join us at the Life is Crazy craft fair! Queen-size homemade quilt raffle, silent auction, local groups and school performances, concessions, kids’ table for ages 10 and under where they can place items for sale. Info: Lillian Green, 307-715-0510, B-Jo Laing, 307-717-6783 or Lynette Bye, 307-575-9317. Contact for table: Wanda Kessler, 307-575-5562.
ONGOING
Museum and Gift Shop: 8:30am-4:30pm. 405 Lincoln Highway. Info: 307-379-2383.
APRIL 1-30
Sage Grouse & Wildlife Tours at Brush Creek Ranch: 1-3pm. The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch, 64 Brush Creek Ranch Rd. Experience the annual courtship ritual of the Greater Sage Grouse during your April visit to Brush Creek Ranch! Arrive bright and early with a pair of binoculars, and an expert wildlife guide will help you
witness this grand display of nature. Each spring, the iconic grouse congregate at nearby breeding sites (called leks) where the males perform an elaborate display to attract nearby females. Watch as they fan out their unique spiked tail feathers and inflate their white puffed-up chests, all while cooing and whistling to attract a mate. Sunrise tours are available upon request. Info: 307-327-5284, Reservations@BrushCreekRanch.com, BrushCreekRanch.com.
Spring Fling Fly Fishing at Brush Creek Ranch: 10am-pm. The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch, 66 Brush Creek Ranch Rd. As the snow begins to melt, gather with fellow anglers in our Orvis endorsed fly-fishing haven to kick off the spring season. Experience pristine, exclusive private waters in one of the most iconic fly-fishing destinations in North America. With your stay of three nights or more in the month of April 2025, receive one complimentary a la carte fishing experience. Enjoy your choice of guided fishing on Brush Creek, or wade or float on the North Platte and Encampment Rivers. Every Thursday in April, join us for a welcome reception to kick-start your fly-fishing weekend in our western Saloon. Enjoy fly tying lessons and spirits tasting with Brush Creek Distillery! Info: 307-327-5284, Reservations@BrushCreekRanch.com.
APRIL 3-6
17th Annual Wyoming Open Pool Tournament: Platte Valley Community Center, 210 W Elm Ave. Info: Mark Osborne, 307-710-1447, Andyclothusa@gmail.com.
APRIL 22
Earth Day in the Greenhouse at Brush Creek Ranch: 9am. The Farm at Brush Creek, 6065 WY-130. Join us for an unforgettable Earth Day experience in the heart of our immersive Greenhouse! Spend the day surrounded by lush greenery as you dive into the world of sustainable hydroponic gardening. Guided by expert horticulturists, you’ll learn the art of seeding, nurturing plants and understanding the delicate balance of our ecosystem. Enjoy hands-on learning, from selecting the perfect seeds to mastering greenhouse techniques that you can use at home. Celebrate Earth Day by giving back to nature in the most meaningful way – planting the seeds of tomorrow! Info: 307-327-5284, Reservations@BrushCreekRanch.com.
BIG HORN
APRIL 11
FAB Women’s Conference 2025: 5:30-7pm. Brinton Museum, 239 Brinton Rd. Enhance your Sheridan Press FAB Women’s Conference experience with an exclusive VIP addon event at The Brinton Museum. Meet the conference keynote speaker and creator of Women in Wyoming, Lindsay Linton Buk, along with additional Women in Wyoming project participants. VIP Experience $25 per ticket. Info: The Sheridan Press, Ashleigh Snoozy, 307-672-2431.
APRIL 25-27
Big Horn Home Builders Association Home & Garden Show: 5-8pm on 25th; 9am-6pm on 26th; 10am–3pm on 27th. Ramada Plaza Sheridan Hotel & Convention Center, 1809 Sugarland Dr. Absolutely something for everyone! Free. Info: bhhba.org, 307-752-1603, info@bhhba.org.
THURSDAYS
Bluegrass Jam Session: 6:30pm. Occidental Saloon. Free. Info: 307-684-0451.
APRIL 18
The Language of the Land | Reception: 6-8pm. Ucross Foundation, 30 Big Red Ln. The Ucross Art Gallery invites the community to a reception celebrating its latest exhibition “The Language of the Land.” Info: ucrossfoundation.org.
THROUGH MAY 7
Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites Exhibit: Mon.-Sat. 8am-5pm. Rockpile Museum, 900 W 2nd St. Free. An imaginative bookbased 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: 307682-9133, avacenter.org.
TUESDAYS
Children’s Storytime: 10:3011:30am. Hulett Library. Info: 307467-5743.
MONDAY-THURSDAY
5 Mile Walking Exercise Class: 4:45-6pm. Hulett Library. Info: 307467-5743.
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.
WEDNESDAYS
Moorcroft Branch Library Activities: 10am storytime, 4pm afterschool craft, 7pm AA meetings. Please use the downstairs entrance. Info: 307756-3232.
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.
THIRD SATURDAYS
Weston County Democrats: 2pm. Weston County Library. Info: 307-941-1822, weston.wyodems.net.
FRIDAYS
Bingo: 7:30pm. VFW Hall. Free.
ONGOING
Anna Miller Museum: 8am-4pm. Closed on holidays. 401 Delaware Ave. Free. Info: 307- 746-4188.
THROUGH APRIL 7
The Art of Linda Pease: Brinton Museum. We are proud to present its 20th Illustrator show featuring Apsáalooke/Crow artist Linda Pease. Info: 307-672-3173.
APRIL 12
FAB Women’s Conference 2025: 9:30am-7pm. The Historic Sheridan Inn, 856 Broadway. Join us for a day of inspiration, growth and celebration. The experience is created for, about and by women to inspire and encourage women of all ages and walks of life. Regular and VIP tickets available. Info: The Sheridan Press, Ashleigh Snoozy, 307-672-2431.
APRIL 12
Dried Flowers + Macrame + Driftwood Wall Hanging Class: 2-4pm. Cottonwood Kitchen + Home, 234 N Main St. Join the ladies as we walk you through combining macrame with our collection of dried flowers to create custom wall hangings for your home! $85. Info: cottonwoodshop.com.
APRIL 18
The Language of the Land | Artist Talk: 11am-12pm. Sheridan College, Kinnison Hall, 1 Whitney Way. Join us for an introduction to The Language of the Land, the latest exhibition at the Ucross Art Gallery, in an artist and curator talk. The exhibition features work by the 2024 recipients of the Ucross Fellowship for Native American Artists. Free. Info: ucrossfoundation.org.
APRIL 19
Afternoon Tea: 2-4pm. Cottonwood Kitchen + Home, 234 N Main St. Calling all ladies who lunch! Besties who brunch! Join us for afternoon tea (high tea) featuring teas, coffee, crumpets, small bites and fun! This time our theme will be Easter inspired, so wear your biggest hat and alllll the pastels. $45. Info: cottonwoodshop.com.
APRIL 22
Lunchtime Conversations About Open Spaces: Small Acreage Management: 12-1pm. Luminous Brewhouse, 504 Broadway. “Small Acreage Management” is the topic for this year’s series. Micah Most of the Wyoming Extension Office, as well as other experts, will explore how small acreage management plays a role in maintaining open space and its contribution to our vibrant community. Participants are welcome to bring their lunch. Beverages are available for purchase. Info: Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce, 307672-2485.
APRIL 24
Empty Bowl: 5-6:30pm. Sheridan County Fairgrounds, 1753 Victoria St. Join VOA Northern Rockies for our annual Empty Bowl Event in Sheridan! This is a community soup dinner to help your Sheridan neighbors in need. Info: voanr.org/ sheridan-empty-bowl.
SATURDAYS
Landon’s Farmer’s Market: 10am. Landon’s Greenhouse, 505 College Meadows Dr. Info: 307-672-8340.
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.
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 Monday-Friday 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 Tuesday and Friday. 5:30pm card elimination and potluck every third Monday. Info: 307-468-9262. Red Onion Museum: 8am-4pm. Closed holidays. 1920 HWY 16. Free. Info: 307-226-2873, redonion@gmail.com.
DUBOIS
THURSDAYS
Farmer’s Market: 4-6pm. Headwaters. Info: Twila Blakeman, 307-851-0785.
FRIDAYS
Family Story Time: 11:30am. Dubois Branch Library. Free. Songs, stories and crafts for ages birth to 5 years. Older siblings are welcome to join the fun. Stay and play in the Children’s Library after story time. Info: 307-455-2992.
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.
SECOND SATURDAYS
Greybull Ladies Coffee: Greybull Library. Info: 307-765-2100.
SATURDAYS
Acoustic Music Jam: 11am-1pm. Lander Bake Shop. Info: 307-332-3237.
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.
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.
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.
TUESDAY-FRIDAY
Homesteader Museum: 10am-5pm. Private tours or visits available. Info: 307-754-9481, homesteader@parkcounty-wy.gov.
SATURDAYS
Homesteader Museum: 10am-2pm. Private tours or visits available. Info: 307-754-9481, homesteader@parkcounty-wy.gov.
SECOND SATURDAYS
SUBMIT AN EVENT
Send complete information by
Send events occurring in June by April 15.
Be sure to include the date, title, description, time, cost, location, address and contact information for each event.
Photos are always welcome.
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.
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.
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
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.
WREN CLASSIFIED ADS ARE $0.75 PER SIX CHARACTERS CONTACT: SHAWNA@GOLINDEN.COM 970-221-3232
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.
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 307660-2402 relics@frontierauto.net.
BY WALT GASSON
Note: This was a hard one to write. It’s personal, and personal things are often hard. But it has a very happy ending, and I think it illustrates a point that is worth making: That sometimes life is hard. Birth is hard. Love is hard. Death is hard. But the foundations of our lives must be hard if they are to endure. This one’s for my family – people who know how to do hard things.
In a small Wyoming town, a half century ago and more, unplanned teenage pregnancies were viewed differently than they are now. Kim and I learned that firsthand when we were 18 and 17, respectively. The experience was long on shame and judgement, short on support and compassion. Kim was turned over to a church social services agency, and they packed her off to a group home in Salt Lake City. Later, she was placed with a family where she worked as an unpaid nanny. We wrote each other every day and went on a supervised date once a month. When her due date came, they hustled her off to the hospital, gave her a general anesthetic, induced her labor and took the baby while she was unconscious. She never saw him, never held him. When she woke up, all she had was a 3x5 index card with “baby boy, 7 lbs. 11 oz., 1-28-72” written in pencil.
On the other side of the wall of secrecy was another couple. They lived in Georgia, where he was finishing up his doctorate in education. They had one daughter but couldn’t have more children. They had been waiting for this little one for months and flew to Utah to welcome him into their family. They named him Clark and would go on to adopt three more children and raise them, first in Boise, Idaho and later in the Salt Lake City area. They never met us, and we didn’t know they existed. We just hoped and prayed our baby would be safe and happy. He most certainly was.
It was the hardest experience of our lives together. But we took all the hurt and the anger and the fear, and we packed them tightly into a little emotional box and put it on the back shelf of our lives. And we went on. We went off to college together in Laramie. Kim was pregnant
with our daughter Jenny when we graduated. The years went by, and Beth came along, followed by Sarah. We moved from Laramie to Pavilion, then Gillette and later Cheyenne. But we never forgot. His memory was with us through it all.
He once was lost, but now he’s found. The same could be said for us.
Time passed, and our daughters became women. When they were married with little ones of their own, we told them about their brother. They were, as have always been, our best friends and greatest supporters. After some initial discussion, and no small amount of plotting amongst themselves, they decided that this was our water to carry, not theirs. But as each would tell you, they never stopped looking for him. And the years went by.
Clark grew up in Utah, went on a church mission, went to college and on to a career in human resources management. He married a girl from his neighborhood, and they had three sons. But as he says, little reminders cropped up. He loved the outdoors, unlike his parents and his siblings. And every birthday or Christmas, like every adopted kid, he wondered if his birth parents were out there and if they ever wondered about him. But a closed adoption like his doesn’t provide much to go on. Like he says, “Every adopted kid that goes through a closed adoption that doesn’t know anything about their backstory has to wonder. You know, was I the product of two people who hooked up at a truck stop, or am I an heir to a billion-dollar fortune? I’ve always felt I wasn’t placed for adoption because I wasn’t wanted but because the timing wasn’t right for them to have kids.”
In 2018, when ancestry.com offered a special deal on DNA testing, Clark spit in the tube and sent it in. He was managing
his expectations, to say the least. Little did he know that in Laramie, we were doing the same thing. Within days of one another, we sent DNA samples in and waited for the results. But when they came, they came with vastly different impacts. We learned that the family history work we had done was largely solid, and that our ancestors came primarily from northern Europe. He learned that another ancestry userWalt Gasson - was his father.
And with that, we began a process of reconnection. It’s a little like dating. Tentative contact at first, texts progressing to emails. Then the first phone call, introductions and gettingto-know-you questions and answers. Exchanges of photos online. The troubling news that some might be BYU fans, and the realization that we could get past that. And finally, the in-person meet-up. And, dear readers, if I live to be 150, I will never forget watching my beloved sweetheart burst out the front door, vault the steps and sprint to the son she lost 46 years before to hold him for the first time.
He’s 53 now, and it feels like he was always here, or maybe like he was gone for a little while but now he’s back. He looks like Kim’s dad to me, but some say we look alike. He has the same sense of humor as his sisters. He knows now where his innate love of the outdoors came from. And we know now that our family is whole.
He once was lost, but now he’s found. The same could be said for us. W
Walt
Gasson is a fourth-generation Wyoming native, writer and son of the sagebrush sea. He lives in Laramie, Wyoming.
Two Toilet Paper Rolls (or
String / Yarn
Construction Paper
Markers / Crayons / Stickers
Scissors
Masking / Painter’s Tape
Tape two toilet paper rolls together.
Cut a strip of construction paper to wrap around the middle of the tapedtogether rolls, then tape it down.
Have your kids decorate their binoculars however they like.
Cut a small hole on the outside of each tube.
Create a lanyard so your kids can wear the binoculars by stringing the yarn through the holes and securing it with a knot on each side, inside of each hole.
Go on an adventure and see what you can find!