Wyoming Rural Electric News June 2026

STANDING TOGETHER FOR RURAL WYOMING

Tri-State, together with your local electric cooperatives, is proud to power Wyoming’s homes, farms, and businesses.

We welcome responsible growth that supports our communities. We’re not just keeping up with change—we’re planning for it, with a commitment to reliability and affordability.

So that the grid we’re building today is strong enough for tomorrow’s ideas. When Wyoming grows, we all grow.

WHATEVER THE FUTURE HOLDS, WE’LL POWER IT.®

Scan to learn more or visit www.tristate.coop/powering-future

Summer Events & Festivals Bring Wyoming Communities Together

STORY BY GAYLE M. IRWIN

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE…

I may have used this title for my column in the past, but it still applies to today. Below is a transcript of a speech that I gave in Washington, D.C. back when I was a young punk working on Capitol Hill for the Senate Energy and Natural Resources. The Wyoming connection is that Senator Craig Thomas served on this committee, and I worked on his subcommittee on National Parks while he was Chairman, but the Chairman of the full committee, who was my boss, was Sen. Frank Murkowski from Alaska.

During my time with the committee, I was asked to serve on The National Energy Education Development (NEED) board of directors. Sen. Murkowski was invited to give a speech to NEED but sent me instead. Below are a few excerpts from that speech from October 9, 1997. Keep in mind I was 25 at the time and it sounded much better in my head.

It is my pleasure to welcome you all here tonight to speak about the importance of energy education, and The NEED Project. I’m sorry Sen. Murkowski couldn’t be here tonight, but he had to go back to Alaska.

It is vital that we focus our efforts on educating the nation’s youth, not only about our natural resources, but also the role they will play in developing our country’s future energy policies.

As I see it, there are three kinds of people when talking about energy education and some of the problems our country is faced with.

• Those who complain about our nation’s energy problems but don’t do anything about it;

• Those who don’t know anything about our energy problems; and

• Those who are trying to rectify both situations.

It is upsetting to read the results from the 1997 Energy Education Report Card and one particular question which asked, “If a new electric power plant were needed in your area, how would you feel if it was a nuclear power plant?”

A majority of students said that they would oppose it, but not get involved. Not get involved? That, I believe, goes to the heart of the problem.

I believe that the public suffers from a general lack of understanding not only in the nuclear power industry, but electricity in general.

We are all here; teachers, industry representatives, The NEED Project volunteers and elected officials, to do our part to facilitate learning, with the goal in mind that our country will never be faced with another Arab oil embargo, blackouts and/or brownouts, and that future policy makers will have the knowledge and background to make informed decisions with regard to our country’s natural resources and energy needs.

All of that was in a speech that my 25-year-old self gave in 1997. Almost 30 years later and it kind of feels like nothing has changed.

SHAWN TAYLOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

This year we are featuring our favorite "Just Picture It" submissions here, at the front of the magazine! Submit your best photos each month for a chance to be featured in this space.

An acrylic painting inspired by the American Southwest, featuring a cowboy and horse standing beneath dramatic desert clouds and towering canyon formations. Rich warm tones and textured brushwork bring the landscape to life while evoking a sense of solitude, adventure, and timeless western spirit.

INCLUDE YOUR NAME, LOCATION, ENTRY TITLE AND ENTRY DESCRIPTION.

wren@wyomingrea.org | 307-286-8140

2312 Carey Avenue Cheyenne, WY 82001-3627

A showcase of creative work by our Wyoming readers, entries for The Art Spot may range from paintings, illustrations, bronzes, pottery, woodworking to digital artwork. The sky’s the limit! We look forward to sharing our readers’ talents in each issue.

Oil has been a part of Wyoming history since the beginning days of statehood. But first, oil was used mostly as a lubricant, until kerosene began to take over the market for lamp oil, which replaced costly whale oil.

As far back as the early 19th century explorers in what is now Wyoming reported evidence of oil. In 1832, when fur trader Capt. B. L. E. Bonneville traveled to the Wind River Valley, he found oil springs southeast of present-day Lander near Dallas Dome, where the state’s first oil well would be drilled five decades later.

During the fur trade and Overland trails periods, travelers commented on “oil springs” where oil bubbled to the surface of water pools. An oil spring near Hilliard in present-day Uinta County was well known when Fort Bridger was established nearby in 1842.

Thirteen years after the world’s first oil well was drilled in Baku, Azerbaijan, on the Caspian Sea, America’s first gusher was struck. Made by “Colonel” Edwin Drake, America’s initial discovery was at Titusville, Pennsylvania, in 1859. It led to an oil rush to western Pennsylvania. Initially, even the newly “drilled” oil had only nominal use in transportation—as axle grease for wagons and coaches or lubricant for steam engines powered by wood or coal.

Around the same time, scientists found that a petroleum by-product, kerosene, could provide superior lighting to candles. The newly developed kerosene lamps gave off even better light than those that burned increasingly costly whale oil. Indeed, whales were becoming scarce and, were it not for kerosene, their extinction could have been a possibility.

In 1870, Cleveland merchant John D. Rockefeller formed a company he called Standard Oil. A purchaser of Rockefeller’s kerosene, sold in oneor five-gallon blue cans, could be assured that the product contained no water or explosive gasoline that sometimes was dishonestly passed off as kerosene by other merchants.

When Thomas Edison invented the first practical incandescent light bulb in 1879, observers believed Rockefeller’s oil business would wither and die. But despite the competition from electric lighting, Rockefeller persevered, as electricity generation proved impractical for tiny towns and ranches.

This was particularly true in Wyoming, where distances between ranches were great, and kerosene continued its dominance in rural lighting.

LAMPS WORK

The kerosene is kept in a reservoir from which it feeds a wick that is protected by a glass chimney or globe, which connects firmly to the burner atop the reservoir. The wick leads up through the burner, which you light when ready to use. An adjustment knob controls the lamp’s brightness by raising or lowering the wick to vary the size of the flame. The higher up the wick is turned, the brighter the light burns.

Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame Opens Exhibit at Rockpile Museum in Gillette

2026 NOMINEES ANNOUNCED

THE WYOMING COWBOY HALL OF FAME (WCHF)

OFFICIALLY OPENED ITS HALL OF FAME EXHIBIT AT THE ROCKPILE MUSEUM OF CAMPBELL COUNTY APRIL 25, 2026, MARKING A MAJOR MILESTONE IN PRESERVING AND CELEBRATING WYOMING’S RICH COWBOY HERITAGE.

The new exhibit offers visitors an immersive look into the lives, skills and enduring legacy of Wyoming’s working cowboys and cowgirls. Through artifacts, photographs, videos and interactive displays, the exhibit honors more than 450 inductees recognized since the Hall of Fame’s founding in 2013 to recognize and honor individuals who shaped Wyoming’s cowboy heritage and celebrate the life they lived in the saddle.

“This exhibit represents the heart and soul of Wyoming,” said Candy Moulton, Executive Director of the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame. “It tells the stories of the men and women whose grit, skill and long years in the saddle shaped our state’s cowboy traditions.”

For the 25 inductees to the WCHF Class of 2026, the WCHF State Board of Directors voted on nominees from across the state during its annual meeting April 26. Regional committees in 10 different areas of Wyoming researched and scored over 50 nominations and sent the top picks to the WCHF State Board of Directors, comprised of one member from each of the state’s 10 regions, who also selected several nominees.

The Rockpile Museum’s role as a regional hub for history and heritage makes it an ideal setting for the exhibit’s permanent home.

“This is truly a public-private partnership. Not only did we find a home for the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame at the Rockpile Museum, but we also found a dedicated museum staff who is as determined to tell the stories of Wyoming cowboys as we are,” Moulton said.

The exhibit is also part of broader statewide efforts to commemorate Wyoming’s history and culture leading up to the nation’s 250th anniversary, highlighting the essential role cowboys have played in the development of the state and the American West. Funding for the project came from a Wyoming 250 Task Force grant, donations by owners of livestock brands in Wyoming and the WCHF.

REGION

1

CAMPBELL COUNTY

Bob Tarver, Gillette

R.V. “Dick” Talley, Gillette

CROOK COUNTY

Dick Graham, Moorcroft WESTON COUNTY

Susan Martens Vore, Newcastle

REGION 2

GOSHEN COUNTY

Afton D. Green Sr., LaGrange

PLATTE COUNTY

Dennis Brooks, Glendo

REGION 3

ALBANY COUNTY

Thomas F. George, Laramie

LARAMIE COUNTY

K. Norman “Buck” Holmes, Cheyenne

REGION 4

CONVERSE COUNTY

Donald Bruce Murray, Lost Springs

REGION 5 NONE

REGION 6

BIG HORN COUNTY

John Luman, Hyattville

REGION 7 (CONT.)

SWEETWATER COUNTY

Alonzo “Lunk” Raymond Jarvie, McKinnon

Anderson Brothers: Mark Edwin Anderson, Robert Lloyd Anderson, Larry Anderson, McKinnon

Doyle and Fon Slagowski, Burntfork

REGION 8

HOT SPRINGS COUNTY

Doug Wallingford, Thermopolis

REGION 9

UINTA COUNTY

Eudjere Hickey, Lonetree

Maurice H. Henry, Robertson

REGION 10

SUBLETTE COUNTY

Roberts Family: Dianne Boroff, Louis and Shad (Zac) Roberts, Daniel

Mac McCormick, Daniel

Clarence “Tuffy” Davis Jr., Big Piney

James Mickelson, Big Piney

Alexander Marshall Gilchrist, Jr. Big Piney

Jensen Brothers: Otto F. Jensen and Gladwon Jensen, Boulder

TETON COUNTY

The 13th Annual induction ceremony will be at Little America in Cheyenne, Sept. 25 and 26. It is open to the public. To learn more about the WCHF

REGION 7

CARBON COUNTY

Alice Platt Nation, Encampment

Rene Vyvey, Saratoga

Warren M. Robertson and Helen Hardeman Robertson, Wilson

Summer Events & Festivals

BRING WYOMING COMMUNITIES TOGETHER

BY GAYLE M. IRWIN

Summer events and festivals bring communities together. Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives add to the fun through sponsorships and volunteerism, both critical to ensuring a successful event.

Most people are familiar with Cheyenne’s Frontier Days, the Wyoming State Fair in Douglas and Casper’s National College Finals Rodeo, but small town events and festivals also draw numerous people and celebrate the West for locals and visitors alike.

Donkey Creek Festival

Gillette is a community that enjoys bringing music to the masses.

Donkey Creek Festival ran for more than 15 years at Gillette College, but “funding and volunteers became an issue,” said Robert Henning, festival board member and director of the Rockpile Museum.

“We’ve been running it now for three years, and it takes place at Big Lost Meadery,” he said. “The idea is to provide music, art and food, and to have a place for people to gather and enjoy the arts.”

Named after the creek that runs through the community, Donkey Creek Festival is a family-friendly, free event that takes place June 20 this year.

The Bighorn Trail Run

The Bighorn Trail Run, founded nearly 30 years ago, happens June 19 and 20 in the mountains around Dayton. This ultramarathon has grown exponentially since its inception, said race director Cooper Powers. His family started the event to raise awareness about a planned dam and the road construction associated with the development. A close family friend, Stacy Page, was the event’s first director, then Powers’ grandmother, his mother, and now himself at the helm. The race, which includes courses for 18 miles, 32 miles, 52 miles and 100 miles, now benefits many organizations in the area, Powers said.

The Forest Service permits 1,300 runners and “that fills up almost immediately,” with a large waiting list, he added.

“We’re a qualifier for a lot of [other] races,” he said.

Rodeo is King

Rodeo plays a strong role in Wyoming, and various communities around the state host such events.

In Cody, rodeo is king. With a rodeo every night throughout the summer starting June 1, town residents and visitors are exposed to the cowboy and cowgirl way of life. Additionally, the town hosts Stampede Week July 1–4, featuring bronc riding, barrel racing and bull riding. In conjunction with this special week, the Wild West Arts Fest, hosted by the Cody Chamber of Commerce, occurs July 2, 3 and 4.

“We will have 58 craft vendors and 12 food trucks, and they will set up around the city park,” said Macie Hopkins, events coordinator for the Cody Chamber of Commerce. “To be in the show, they have to be handcrafted items, from metal work to jewelry to original canvas art, knitting, sewing … That’s how we set ourselves apart from our downtown businesses.”

The foundation for Wild West Arts Fest was laid by a private individual during the 1990s, said executive assistant Elizabeth Stuard.

“The Chamber took it over in 2015,” she said. “It functions as a fundraiser for us.”

In Kaycee there’s a Friday night rodeo, with eight planned in 2026, starting at the end of May.

Strong Musical History

Kaycee is also home for a music festival. Chris LaDoux Days ran for 10 years, highlighting both rodeo and music in honor of the Wyoming native. The family ended that threeday event in 2025. However, new organizers stepped forward, and the inaugural Outlaw Music Festival is scheduled for June 20 and 21.

This small town has a strong musical history.

“Back in the day, the Grange was an agricultural entity that served as a meeting hall … and everybody belonged to it,” said long-time resident and landowner Kevin Lund. “When I was growing up, the first Saturday of every month there was a dance at the Grange Hall.”

The building that houses Kaycee’s Hoofprints of the Past Museum was once the Grange Hall, he added.

Lund, his brother and two friends formed a band during their younger years and played at the hall and around the state. Now he is a member of the Dry Creek Band that will play during the Outlaw Music Festival.

Music is a component of many Wyoming festivals, including others in Central Wyoming, such as Deer Creek Days in Glenrock and Jackalope Days in Douglas. These familyfriendly festivals draw people from beyond central Wyoming, according to organizers.

Family-Friendly Festivals

“Deer Creek Days is very popular with people,” said Chris Sorenson, director of Elevate Glenrock. “It’s great that the community comes together and sees that this works. I’m really excited for this year’s events.”

Celebrating 50 years in 2026, Deer Creek Days takes place throughout town and the community park June 26–28. In addition to music, attendees will find games, vendors, cookoffs and more. Glenrock also hosts the annual Sheepherders Rendezvous August 21–23 at the Town Park, featuring sheep wagon displays, sheepdog trials, food concessions, living history and Dutch oven cooking demonstrations, music and more.

Also in Converse County, Jackalope Days and the Wyoming State Fair draw hundreds to Douglas. Jackalope Days has a history of more than 50 years, said Jen Goodwin from The Enterprise, a nonprofit, member-based community organization. This festival also features music as well as vendors, games and train tours at the railroad museum. A new event happens this year: a book crawl. This familyfriendly feature presents author readings and book signings at the library, the railroad museum, Whistlestop Books & Mercantile and other businesses

Jackalope Days takes place June 11—14.

“It hasn’t always been called Jackalope Days, but it is a long-standing tradition,” Goodwin said.

Tramway Days, set for August 22 also at the Grand Encampment Museum, features various events celebrating America’s semi-sesquicentennial. Three films will be shown: Lander filmmaker Sophie Barksdale with her latest, “Crossing the Threshold,” “Land of Abundance: Native Lifeways of the Grand Encampment,” a short film produced by Grand Encampment Museum about Native American history in the Upper North Platte Valley, and “Journeys to 250,” a short film celebrating America’s 250th birthday.

For more than 60 years, Encampment has hosted the Woodchoppers Jamboree and Rodeo presented by the Lion’s Club. This year’s event takes place June 20 and 21. Events include logging competitions such as the two-man handsaw, a log throw and even a chainsaw throw. Children’s events are also planned. Additionally, the weekend features a rodeo and vendors with handcrafted items.

Contributing to Their Communities

Many co-ops give back or support their community events.

Garland Power & Light sponsors the Dano’lope’ Dash, an in-person and virtual race which takes place annually in June; the in-person race takes place in Powell. Participants choose from a 1 mile, 5k or 10k run/walk along with an optional obstacle course, and all race proceeds are used to support youth in Park County participating in Dano Youth Camp. Garland Power & Light uses their Tri-State and Basin Electric match for these funds as well, and typically have employees and their families participate in the run.

At Powder River Energy Corporation, support goes to a few unique organizations including sponsorships for the Durham Ranch Buffalo Stampede, Longmire Days in Buffalo and the Kaycee Outlaw Music Festival.

Conservation Organizations’ Events Unify Wyoming Sportsmen and Women

Hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities are important values for many Wyomingites. Therefore, many conservation organizations’ fundraisers are well-attended and hosted by various communities throughout the state.

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More In the Southeast & Southwest

The Sierra Madre Muzzleloader Mountain Man Rendezvous is happening July 24 through July 26. This annual rendezvous coincides with Living History Day at the Grand Encampment Museum. Visitors will experience how mountain men and women lived during the 1830s.

Green River hosts an annual River Festival, with the 2026 event happening August 14 and 15. Featured events include music, vendors, food trucks, a shrimp boil and a race known as Run With The Horses, a Marathon/Half/10K/5K, which takes participants in and out of town along the Pilot Butte Road where they can view wild horses.

The River Festival takes place in conjunction with the town’s annual Art on the Green, a 24-hour live painting and sculpting competition.

Kemmerer hosts two unique festivals: Fossil Fest June 19 and 20 and the Oyster Ridge Music Festival July 24 and 25. Fossil Fest features discounted digs, vendors, music and a dodgeball tournament as well as a 5K run, basketball tournament, comedy, a dance competition and a parade. The Oyster Ridge Music Festival, an event more than 30 years old, is considered Wyoming’s largest free music festival.

Also happening in southwestern Wyoming this summer are the Green River Rendezvous at the Museum of the Mountain Man in Pinedale, July 9–12, and Gold Rush Days in South Pass City, July 11 and 12.

More In the Northeast & Northwest

Sheridan is home for a new event happening in early autumn: The Mountain West Book Fest, organized by two local authors and a bookstore owner, comes to town on Saturday, September 19 at the Whitney Commons, bringing regional authors and readers together. Before that inaugural book festival, the community will host the Collective Arts Festival on August 8 at the same park and the annual WYORodeo Week July 8–11, which features World Championship Indian Relay Races.

The Sheep and Wool Festival in Powell is July 31 to August 2 at the Park County Fairgrounds, with vendors, workshops, stock dog trials and more. Near Jackson, the Targhee Music Festival returns after several years on hiatus, with musical performances happening July 10 and 11.

Sponsors & Volunteers

Every event and festival requires support from both sponsors and volunteers. Wyoming’s electric cooperatives often supply both. Donations of funds and inkind support can come from the electric co-ops that supply electricity to the businesses, individuals and families in and around a community. Volunteers can come from those who work with the various cooperatives and who live in or near the towns hosting these events.

For example, Wyoming Electric, which serves Sheridan County, has sponsored community events, school sports and nonprofit organizations, and Powder River Energy Cooperative’s Foundation is the beneficiary of this year’s 25th annual Durham Ranch Buffalo Stampede near Wright on June 6. The Foundation awards money (more than $3 million thus far) to nonprofit community support organizations in five Wyoming counties.

Electric cooperatives’ workers live and raise their families in the counties they serve. They are, therefore, a source of volunteerism for their communities. Whether it’s a banquet for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation or a community music festival, like the new Outlaw Music Festival in Kaycee, a co-op’s staff fill the vital need for volunteers.

More in Central Wyoming

This year’s Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow, happening in Fort Washakie June 19–21, marks 65 years in 2026. Longmire Days, honoring Craig Johnson’s book series and six seasons of the television show, often presents Native American dancers in addition to appearances by some of the actors and the books’ author. This year’s Longmire Days happens in Buffalo July 16–19.

Spending time at the numerous and varied events and festivals around the state helps make Wyoming “a small town with very long streets,” a quote attributed to senators Milward Simpson and Al Simpson, and former governor and ambassador to Ireland, Mike Sullivan. It’s the sense of community, no matter where in Wyoming a person lives or visits, that strong heart and affinity for generosity, kindness and camaraderie, that enhance the events and festivals taking place throughout the state. W

wyobiodiversity.org

SUPER POWERSPronghorn

Pronghorn are amazing! Sometimes you may hear them called antelope, but they aren’t related to antelope at all. They are a completely unique animal found only in the western North American prairies and deserts. They are named after the shape of their horns, and have been here for a very long time. Fossils of their early ancestors are 20 million years old! Over time, pronghorn have developed special abilities that help them succeed in their dry, treeless, grassy environments.

1. MASTERS OF DISGUISE

There aren’t many places for pronghorn to hide, so the coloring of their bodies matches the colors of the landscape. If a pronghorn is lying down, you might not see it. That’s how the moms hide the babies. A pronghorn baby—called a fawn—weighs only 6 -7 pounds when it is born, but by five days old, it can outrun a human.

2. CAN’T CATCH ME

Pronghorn are the fastest land animal in North America. They can run seven miles in 10 minutes, with short bursts of nearly 60 mph. Pronghorn are designed to run. Their deep chest holds a huge heart and massive lungs, and a large windpipe allows for big gulps of air at top speed. A light skeleton and cushioning within their hooves completes the perfect animal built for top speed.

3. REMARKABLE FEATURES

Pronghorn are herbivores and eat only plants. You will rarely see a pronghorn drinking water because they get enough water from the plants they eat.

Pronghorn have the longest land migration in the continental United States. Herds in Wyoming travel each spring and fall from Grand Teton National Park to the Upper Green River Basin—more than 150 miles each way. 1 2 3

Meet the Hybrid That Never Needs Gas

Innovation is the path to the future. Stauer takes that seriously. That’s why we developed the Yellowjacket Hybrid Watch, an impressive timepiece that’s sure to turn heads. We originally priced the Yellowjacket at $399 based on the market for advanced sports watches … but then stopped ourselves. Since this is no ordinary economy, and everyone else has raised their prices, we decided to start at 90% OFF! This technological marvel can be yours for ONLY $39! Only Stauer can offer you a price this good.

When it comes to purchasing a quality, timeless timepiece, there’s one question every prospective buyer must consider: digital or analog. Both have their advantages. We say, why not have both?

Our Men’s Yellowjacket Hybrid Watch is a surprising innovation. Its digital readout is powered by a precise quartz engine that combines both analog and digital timekeeping. Outfitted with a stopwatch, alarm, a.m./ p.m. settings and day, date and month complications, this timepiece is hard to beat.

With its large face and handsome, masculine design, this watch is perfect for the back nine and the happy hour afterward. Water-resistant up to 3 ATM, this timepiece won’t wimp out if it has a run-in with a water hazard. And best of all is the color of its case and band: This watch boasts two tones.

Lately, two-tone watches have been the toast of the luxury watch world: “Two-tone is the physical embodiment of work-hard, play-hard,” says Hodinkee, a website that chronicles the watch industry. But where luxury brands are charging hundreds simply for their two-tone watch bands, we’re asking JUST $39 for an entire two-tone watch!

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Just A Shih Tzu

BY DR. BRUCE CONNALLY

Iam not sure when I decided that I should become a veterinarian. My mother has often reminded me of a hard day on the ranch when the vet was working on some colts. Anesthetic drugs were not very effective in those days so we had to use a combination of drugs and ropes to restrain the colts. It was not easy on the horses or the people. One colt almost died when he got too much drug and stopped breathing. We jumped on his chest as a form of artificial respiration until he began breathing on his own. That made the vet cautious so the next one didn’t get enough drug. He kicked a rear leg out of the ropes and almost missed my hand with a well-placed kick. When we stopped for lunch, I came into the kitchen rubbing my swollen hand and announced to my mother that I would never be a veterinarian.

So that fall I went off to the University of Wyoming with dreams of a career in either math or music. But somehow during that first semester music transitioned to medicine and my cornet remained in its case in the closet.

Twenty years later Mom was visiting us in Lander. On Saturday morning we had office hours in the vet clinic. Mom played with her grandsons while I attended to a constant parade of dogs, cats and horses that required ministrations from a veterinarian.

“Dr. Connally,” my receptionist, Marci, called out as I came into the pharmacy to get a distemper vaccination for a rambunctious black lab puppy.

“Mrs. Scott needs a health certificate for her emus. She has sold them to a buyer in Colorado and he is picking them up tomorrow morning.”

Mrs. Scott’s husband had recently died. I knew they were his emus and she was desperately looking for a home for them.

“Tell her we will come out after the clinic closes at noon.” That was an optimistic statement from me. I was trying to get things under control so I would still have time to visit with Mom but my frustration was building. Animals kept coming through the door. It was 10 minutes ‘til one when we finally finished with the last client. My wife and I, both of our boys, our two shelty dogs and Mom piled into our extended cab pickup and drove to the edge of Lander where the emus lived.

We stopped on the circular gravel driveway between the emu pen and Mrs. Scott’s white modular home. It was surrounded by a small green yard with a tall chain link fence. No one came out to meet us except the two emus.

“Sorry this is taking so much time Mom,” I apologized. “I was hoping we could get home and maybe go to a restaurant for a late lunch.” Hunger was fueling my impatience as I opened the pickup door to go find Mrs. Scott.

“There’s a sign that says ‘beware of dog.’” My wife was pointing

to a red and white sign on the yard gate.

“Probably just a Shih Tzu,” I growled as I climbed down out of the truck.

“Please be careful!” Mom added in the classic warning mothers give their sons just before they do something stupid.

I was through the gate and halfway to the front door when a big black and tan Doberman bounded around the corner of the house and straight at me. He didn’t attack, but he did everything he could to convince me that I was not where I was supposed to be. Every time he lunged toward me and barked, saliva sprayed out over huge white teeth. There was no place to run so I backed up to the house beside the front door. Only once did I move where the dog didn’t want me to be. I paid for it with a bite to my lower leg. Finally Mrs. Scott appeared at the door and gave a stern command in German. The dog stopped barking but continued to watch me intently.

“I got him after my husband died,” she explained without apology. “My home was broken into and I was afraid. He is trained to catch and hold an intruder.”

“He is certainly good at his job,” I responded as I carefully bent down to rub my leg while intently watching the dog.

“But you are here to see the emus. They were my

“Please be careful!” Mom added in the classic warning mothers give their sons just before they do something stupid.

husband’s project. I never had much to do with them,” Mrs. Scott stated as she pointed to the pen across the drive.

“I will meet you there as soon as I take care of the dog.”

“Are you all right?” Mom asked as I limped up to the pickup.

“Still alive,” I responded grimly while retrieving my health certificate book. “Do you want to go see the emus?”

“Will that dog be out?”

“No. Mrs. Scott is putting him away.“

“Well,” Mom was still hesitant. “I would like to see the emus.”

Mrs. Scott opened the pen to let mom and me in. The six-foot-tall birds kept a little distance as they circled around the three of us. They did not appear afraid of us, but unlike the Doberman, didn’t seem aggressive either.

“I didn’t realize emus were so big!” Mom exclaimed nervously.

“Just like big chickens,” I quipped. “Look at the drumsticks on that critter.”

About that time, in true chicken fashion, one of the emus became fascinated by my mom’s curly silver hair. It walked up behind her while she wasn’t looking and pecked the top of her head. The sound was like thumping on a ripe watermelon.

“Ow!” Mom cried out while rubbing the top of her head. The emu came in for a second helping, but I was able to get there first.

“Go away, bird,” I scolded, trying to protect Mom but feeling a little insecure about my talent as an emu herder. The giant bird made a small circle across the pen which gave Mom just enough time to scamper through the gate. With Mom safe I finished looking at the birds and escaped out of the pen. I gave Mrs. Scott the health certificate and the whole family piled back in the truck.

“That was exciting,” I commented wryly as we drove down the road.

“Let’s go to McDonalds.” My oldest son was not bothered by any of the events on the emu farm. He was unhappy that it was mid afternoon and we had still not eaten lunch.

Mom sat wedged between her two grandsons in the back of the pickup.

“Why did you choose to be a veterinarian?” she asked quietly as she rubbed the lump on the top of her head. W

Dr. Bruce Connally practices equine medicine

Motorcycle Safety

Before every ride make sure you're wearing protective clothing

DOT-compliant helmet

Full-coverage jackets

Full-fingered gloves

Riding pants

Riding boots

SWISS CHEESE & MUSHROOM QUICHE

1 (10-INCH) PIE CRUST, PRESSED INTO EITHER A PIE PAN OR A SPRINGFORM TART PAN

1 TSP BUTTER

1 1/2 CUPS CHOPPED ONION

1/4 LB MUSHROOMS, SLICED OR MINCED

1/2 TSP SALT BLACK PEPPER

A PINCH OF THYME

1/2 TSP DRY MUSTARD

4 LARGE EGGS (OR 2 WHOLE EGGS PLUS 2 EGG WHITES)

1 1/2 CUPS MILK (CAN BE LOW FAT)

2 TBS FLOUR

QUICHE

COWBOY QUICHE

Onion + bacon + cheese = cowboy friendly!

1 WHOLE UNBAKED PIE CRUST FOR A DEEP DISH PAN

2 WHOLE YELLOW ONIONS, SLICED

2 TBS BUTTER

8 SLICES BACON

8 WHOLE LARGE EGGS

1 1/2 CUPS HEAVY CREAM OR HALF-AND-HALF SALT AND PEPPER, TO TASTE

1 1/2 CUPS (PACKED) GRATED SWISS CHEESE PAPRIKA 1 PIE CRUST

Preheat oven to 375°. Melt the butter in a small pan. Add onions and sauté over medium heat for a few minutes. When they begin to soften, add mushrooms, salt, pepper, thyme and mustard. Sauté about 5 minutes more and remove from heat. Combine eggs, milk and flour in a blender or food processor and beat well. Spread the grated cheese over the bottom of the unbaked crust and spread the onion-mushroom mixture on top. Pour in the custard and sprinkle the top with paprika. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until solid in the center. Serve hot, warm or at room temperature.

FROM “THE

Preheat the oven to 400°. Roll out the pie crust and press it into a large fluted deep tart pan (or a deep dish pie pan).

Fry the onions in the butter in a large skillet over mediumlow heat for 15 to 20 minutes (maybe longer), stirring occasionally, until onions are deep golden brown. Set aside to cool. Fry bacon until chewy, chop into large bitesized pieces and set aside to cool.

2 CUPS GRATED SHARP CHEDDAR CHEESE

5 LARGE EGGS

3/4 CUP MILK (USE 1% OR WHOLE MILK OR A MIX OF MILK AND CREAM FOR MORE RICHNESS)

1 TBS DIJON MUSTARD

3/4 TSP KOSHER SALT

1 1/4 TSP GROUND BLACK PEPPER

Whip the eggs, cream, salt and pepper in a large bowl, mix in the onions, bacon and cheese. Pour mixture into the pie crust. Place the pan on a rimmed baking sheet, cover lightly with aluminum foil, bake 40–45 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking 10–15 minutes, or until quiche is set and crust is golden brown. (The quiche will still seem slightly loose, but will continue to set once out of the oven.) Remove from oven and allow to sit 10–15 minutes. If using a tart pan, remove quiche from pan, cut into slices with a sharp serrated knife and serve!

FROM “THE PIONEER WOMAN” REE DRUMMOND

HAM & CHEESE QUICHE

1/4 TSP GROUND NUTMEG 1/4 TSP HOT SAUCE SUCH AS TABASCO (OPTIONAL)

1 CUP DICED COOKED HAM

3 OZ SHREDDED CHEESE SUCH AS GRUYERE OR WHITE CHEDDAR (ABOUT 3/4 CUP)

2 GREEN ONIONS FINELY CHOPPED

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, nutmeg and hot sauce until smooth and fully combined. Sprinkle the ham and cheese evenly into the prepared pie crust, then pour the egg mixture over the top. Bake the quiche at 350° for 35-45 minutes, until the center is just set and a knife inserted near the middle comes out clean. Let the quiche rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

FROM “WELL PLATED” ERIN CLARKE

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Hats Off to A Community Hero

BY NEVA BODIN

Hats are big in Wyoming. And some people who wear them do big things. Doug Lytle of Lusk, Wyoming, wears more than one hat as he meets community needs and influences people through his actions and presence.

“I constantly learn,” said Lytle. “I’m trying to learn something positive every day that’s helpful … to help improve my life and my family and those around me.” At the time of our conversation, he said, “Today, my daughter is with me, and I’m learning about dresses for a middle school dance!”

A coach, former law enforcement officer, fire department volunteer, city mayor of Lusk for the past eight years and stand-out athlete (he was inducted into Chadron State College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2012), Lytle has a full-time job as Project Manager at Niobrara Electric Association, he is married and has a son and daughter in middle school.

He will be inducted into the Niobrara County Hall of Fame this summer.

Lytle credits much of his drive to learn and excel in what he does to where spent most of his high school years: with a local Lusk couple, Ron and Holly Nelson. Lytle’s mother, a single mom, worked in construction, necessitating frequent moves. When Lytle was a freshman, the Nelsons invited Lytle to stay with them to finish school. Both were teachers, and Nelson was a coach for Lytle, who was heavily involved in sports.

“He became part of our family,” Ron Nelson said. “He’s one of those people who, when he puts his mind to doing something, he’s going to do it well.”

Prior to his high school years, Lytle participated in school sports to stay busy and “not sit at home cleaning house!” He said the Nelsons “gave me roots and stability. They taught me what a family is. It was also the discipline of the coaches that I think really helped with shaping my life.”

In high school, a state champion in shot put and wrestling, and undefeated in football his junior and senior years, he earned a full scholarship to Chadron State, where he lettered in football and set records in the shot put, weight throw, hammer throw and discus. Named the outstanding male athlete, Lytle was a five-time AllAmerican at the NCAA Division II National Meets.

He played arena football professionally with the Milwaukee Mustangs, Toronto Phantoms, Los Angeles Avengers and Indiana Firebirds, and was head coach for the Green Bay Blizzard.

For Lytle, all of these accomplishments led him to see the value in discipline, setting goals and becoming a coach to pass along positive life lessons to kids. He now coaches high school football, track and USA Wrestling for “the little guys,” as he calls the youth.

“It’s not about winning or losing,” he said, “It’s a chance to mold athletes into being good people. It gives you the opportunity to shape somebody else’s life. I talk to kids now about changing the cycle that they’re on. If they don’t like their situation, they can change the cycle. I got into coaching to at least change the cycle in one child’s life. If you can get that done, it’s just the best thing in the world. Winning a championship is just the icing on the cake compared to building the framework for a young man or woman to be a success in life.”

When first married, the Lytles lived in Aurora, Colorado, where Lytle worked for Southwest Airlines then returned to coaching sports.

An opportunity arose to move back to Lusk when they began their family and to serve with the police force, which Lytle did for almost three years.

“The best place we knew to raise kids was in Lusk,” he said.

“I loved community policing,” he said. “I loved interacting with the community. But the worst thing is having to arrest someone for making a mistake. People don’t think they have a chance, but you can tell them they do.”

Eventually, shift work took its toll on his family, and after being on the town council, he ran for mayor and won. Under his administration, Lusk began an infrastructure improvement project still in progress. That project

has “been very rewarding,” Lytle said.

Chantry Filener, Lusk Fire Department Chief, said Lytle is in his 10th year as a volunteer with the Lusk Fire Department, recently passing a 100-question written certification exam to increase his responsibilities and certifications for fighting fires.

“Doug has been an asset, as a fireman and a mayor,” Filener said.

Lytle has worked for Niobrara Electric Association since 2015. “I’m the Project Manager for Niobrara Electric. I started as a warehouse coordinator, then became a staking technician designing power lines, and from there to being a project manager,” he said. To train, he found a school in Alabama and

paid for his own plane ticket to get there.

“I love my job,” he said. “Now I get to help people make the best decisions for them. You have your hands in so many different buckets in a small co-op; you work together.”

“He has been an inspiration and mentor. Day in and day out, he brings something special to the site, the people and the projects he is involved with,” said Cooperative co-worker Twyla Barker. “I know his love of and devotion to family, the energy and enthusiasm

he brings to coaching, his patience and passion for his community, and for the cooperative way.” W

Before the West was won, it had to be lived. In the annals of American history, certain names embody the untamed spirit of the West — Buffalo Bill Cody, Annie Oakley, Billy the Kid, Bat Masterson, Doc Holliday, Molly Brown, Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Amidst these legends there exists a figure whose story, though not etched in the same bold strokes upon the canvas of popular memory, is nonetheless a testament to the rugged determination and indomitable spirit that characterized the men and women who forged the frontier. This Wyoming tale, drawn from the journals of Byron F. Wickwire, recounts an adventurous life intertwined with the tumultuous late 19th century, when the American West was a land of opportunity and peril, and the clash of cultures and the pursuit of dreams defined the landscape.

Born during the chaos of the Civil War, Byron F. Wickwire grew up on Dime Western stories of frontier legends — and then became one himself.

From the rolling plains of Nebraska to the untamed mountains of Wyoming’s Big Horn Basin, “The Wickwire Journals” chronicles one man’s true-life journey into the heart of the American West.

Told through Byron’s vivid and unfiltered journals — preserved and curated by author Leon Schatz — this first volume paints a gripping portrait of cowboy life. Ride alongside Byron as he breaks horses, drives cattle, survives brutal winters and bears witness to events like the hanging of Big Nose George and the Johnson County Cattle Wars. Along the way, he builds a life, a legacy and a dream in a wild land on the brink of change.

An upcoming television series based on the “Wickwire Journals” books will start filming this fall in Montana with Story House Productions. The storyline will feature dual protagonists, Byron and his wife, as they each fight to protect the life they built in Wyoming’s Paint Rock Valley.

BY LEON A. SCHATZ AND BYRON F. WICKWIRE

WILDFLOWERS TRADITIONS

Vibrant Paintbrush

Kathy Doornink, Sundance

Fields of Sunshine

Heather McLaughlin, Upton

April’s Snow Brings Wildflowers Melody-Posey Harris, Saratoga

Stunning Columbine Karen Hagen, Laramie

The Indian Chiefs Valerie Mason, Saratoga

Wild Flowers After a Fire Kellie Braunagel, Moorcroft

Hillside of Arrowleaf Balsamroot Anna Lambert, Sundance

Wyoming Thistle Attracts a Friend

Rob McIntosh, Torrington

Blooming Brightly

Carrie Miller, Laramie

Life in the Rocks

Angie Erickson, Meeteetse

Wildflowers on the Mountain

Martha Rasmussen, Burlington

Yuccas in Full Bloom

Lynn Liebers, Greybull

Prairie Forget Me Nots

Trudy Craft, Basin

Pat Nelson, Cody

Take a Moment and Smell the Flower Angie Erickson, Meeteetse

Tufted Evening Primrose Anna Lambert, Sundance

Beautiful Bluebells and Scenery

Margaret Bauer, Newcastle

Wings of Spring Carrie Miller, Laramie

Inside a Sego Lily Laurie Tucker, Hulett

Throw Yourself a Bone

The very best hunting knives possess a perfect balance of form and function. They’re carefully constructed from fine materials, but also have that little something extra to connect the owner with nature. If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for.

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The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world.

This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.

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4TH OF JULY CONCERT

Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra at a free 4th of July concert featuring patriotic and western-themed favorites, joined by special guests Annie & Amy Smith and members of the Wyoming Celebration Choir. Time: 8:30pm

01 | SOUTHEAST

CENTENNIAL

JULY 4-5

45th Annual Centennial Valley Art Show: Sat. 9am-6pm; Sun. 9am-4pm. Don’t miss this free public exhibition featuring original works from more than 20 local and regional artists across Southeast Wyoming. Hosted by the Centennial Valley Historical Association at the Nici Self Historical Museum in Centennial, a portion of every sale supports the museum’s annual fundraiser. Free. Info: allison@senecacreekstudios.com.

ELK MOUNTAIN

MONDAYS-SATURDAYS

Elk Mountain Museum: 10am-5pm. Explore local history and museum collections. Free. Info: elkmtmuseum@gmail.com, 307-348-7037.

ENCAMPMENT

JULY 8

Reading of the Declaration of Independence: 4-5pm. Grand Encampment Museum, 807 Barnett Ave. Free. Info: 307-327-5308.

JULY 17-19

Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering: Time varies by event. This annual event is held in Encampment every third full weekend in July. Come and enjoy an exciting and action-packed weekend. Cowboy music and poetry performances featuring artists from the region, and a chance for local talent to participate in campfire jam sessions. Continental breakfast served on Sunday morning. Info: 307-329-8904.

JULY 24-26

Sierra Madre Muzzleloaders Mountain Man Rendezvous: All day. Grand Encampment Museum, 807 Barnett Ave. Experience the Mountain Man life! This annual rendezvous coincides with Living History Day at the GEM. Visitors can experience how mountain men and women lived in a fur trade economy in the 1830s. Cost varies. Info: 231-620-1012.

JULY 25

Grand Encampment Museum

Living History Day: All day. Grand Encampment Museum, 807 Barnett Ave. Debut of GEM’s Semiquincentennial Film “Land of Abundance: Native Lifeways of the Grand Encampment.” Info: 307-327-5308.

HANNA

JULY 10-11

King Coal Days: All day. Join us for a weekend of fun celebrating Hanna’s rich coal mining history and heritage. The weekend celebrations include a craft show, cornhole tournament, town BBQ, live music, glow run, pancake breakfast, parade, bingo, car show, 3 on 3 basketball tournament, horseshoe tournament and more!

RAWLINS

JULY 4

Fireworks: Dark. Rawlins. 4th of July firework celebration. Free. Info: Rawlins Fire Department / Police Station.

JULY 10

Wyoming Day: 3pm. Depot Park. Food, music, museums, fun! Celebrate America and Wyoming at Depot Park in Rawlins. Events begin at 3pm. We will have a showing of the “Journeys to 250” documentary. Free. Info: Carbon 250 Committee, carbon250wy@gmail.com.

Harvey Field Sky Festival: 10am-4pm. Rawlins Airport. Join us for the Harvey Field Sky Festival, a one-day community celebration packed with aviation excitement, family, fun, and hometown pride. All age event will feature aircraft displays, aircraft show, vendors, food, entertainment, kid’s activities, and plenty of opportunities to experience the energy of aviation up close. Free.

JULY 10-12

Half-Way Days: Fri. 6pm to Sun. 10pm. Downtown Rawlins. Hikes on the CDT, live music, Derick Lugo Meet & Greet, gear demos, outdoor vendors, cornhole tournament, food, pancake breakfast, car show, street dance, CDT’s history, worship at Depot Park, activities and more! Free. Info: 706-297-3403 and 307-328-2099.

JULY 11-12

The Divide Arms Expo: Sat. 9am-5pm; Sun. 9am-3pm. Exhibit Hall at the Carbon County Fairgrounds, 683 Harshman St. Join us or the inaugural Divide Arms Expo, a premier gathering of firearms, archery, accessories and outdoor gear at the Continental Divide. $10 per day per adult; $7 for active military and veterans; kids under 12 get in free. Info: rawlinsshootingcomplex@gmail.com.

JULY 18

Sunset at the Slammer: 9am. Wyoming Frontier Prison, 500 W Walnut, Rawlins, WY. A midsummer escape at the Wyoming Frontier Prison including a disc golf tournament, historic prison tours, museum, gift shop, maker’s market, live music, food trucks, and more! Cost varies depending on activity. Info: 307-324-4422.

RIVERSIDE

JULY 4

10th Annual Weenie Fest: 12pm. Riverside Garage & Cabins. The family-friendly event features free hot dog lunch, community fun, and festive activities. Free. Info: 307-327-5361.

SARATOGA

JULY 3-5

11th Annual Festival of the Arts: Fri. 6-8pm; Sat. 10am-5pm; Sun. 10am-4pm. Platte Valley Community Center. Celebrate art, creativity and community. Featuring 31 local and regional artists showcasing 2D art, 3D art, mixed media and photography, the festival is part of Saratoga’s Fourth of July celebration alongside a parade, concert, fireworks and other family-friendly festivities. Free. Info: festivalofthearts@gmail.com.

JULY 3-5

The Good Times Valley Independence Day Party & Saratoga Days: All day. A full weekend celebrating Independence Day. The weekend includes a 5K run, art quilt exhibit, Festival of the Arts, free pancake breakfast, car show, parade, old-fashioned bake auction, “Journeys to 250” movie, cornhole tournament, fireworks, kids art experience and Saratoga Days live music featuring headliner Ned Ledoux. Free. Info: 307-326-7822.

JULY 8

Sharing the Spirit of America: 4-6pm. Saratoga Museum Pavillion. On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved in Philadelphia and first publicly read there on July 8. On July 8, 2026 at 4pm, Americans nationwide will read it together, locally at the Museum Pavilion with the Saratoga Community Choir leading patriotic songs. Free. Info: Justin Horn, saratogamuseum@gmail.com, bit.ly/SpiritAmerica.

JULY 24-25

WHAT Fest: All day. Saratoga, WY. Grassroots, community-powered event has brought together people from across Wyoming and the Mountain West to celebrate music, arts and connection. Featuring multiple musical acts across multiple genres, interactive art installations, youth programming, and immersive experiences that highlight Wyoming’s creative spirit. WHAT Fest is what you make of it! Starting at $49.87. Info: info@whatfest.com, whatfest.com.

Koyoty Howl: All day. Saratoga, WY. Join us for the 11th Annual Koyoty Howl. Sales, giveaways and raffles, along with many brand representatives setting up booths! A complimentary lunch will be served on Saturday, with burgers, hot dogs, sides and drinks. Tons of deals on firearms, clothing, camping, optics, badlands and fishing. Free. Info: 307-326-5551.

02 | NORTHEAST

BIG HORN

JULY 3

Brinton Summer Concert with Leftover Salmon: 6-10:30pm. Brinton Museum, 239 Brinton Road. Join us for an evening of live music at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains. Leftover Salmon, a Colorado-based band, is known for their highenergy blend of bluegrass, rock and improvisation. Concert is currently sold out, but join the waitlist at visit thebrintonmuseum.org.

JULY 13-16

Summer Art Camp at the Brinton: 9:30am-2:30pm each day. Brinton Museum, 239 Brinton Road. Designed for young artists ages 9–12, this camp invites students to experiment with a variety of art techniques and materials while drawing inspiration from natural beauty. $175 per student. Info: bit.ly/Brinton-Art-Camp-26.

JULY 13-17; 27-31

Art Camps: 9am-2pm daily. Big Horn High School, 333 U.S. Highway 335. Themes include “Wizarding World: The Enchanted Arts Academy” from July 13-17 and “Imaginary Circus Spectacular” from July 27-31. Free. Info: Big Horn High School, 307-674-8190.

THROUGH LABOR DAY

Start of Polo Season: Game times vary. Big Horn Polo Club, 352 Bird Farm Road; Flying H Polo Club, 280 Bird Farm Road. Polo practices, games and tournaments happen up to four days a week at the Big Horn Equestrian Center or the Flying H Polo Club. Free. Info: Big Horn Polo Club (playing at the Equestrian Center), 307-674-4928, thebighornpoloclub. com. Flying H Polo Club (high goal polo), 307-674-9447, flyinghpolo.com.

CLEARMONT

JULY 11

Yoga in the Park: 10am. The Park at Ucross, 2753 US 14. Enjoy a relaxing

morning of yoga with instructor Tressa Lawrence who will lead an hour-long yoga class for all levels. $10. Info: ucrossfoundation.org/ yogainthepark.html.

JULY 21

Ucross Sound Hike: 9am. Ucross Art Gallery, 30 Big Red Lane. Join us on a very special sound hike on the Ucross Ranch to experience “Confluences” – an emplaced sound experience created by Ucross artist-alumni Teri Rueb and Laurids Sonne. Free. Info: bit.ly/Ucross-Sound-Hike-Series.

DAYTON

JULY 16-18

Bighorn Mountain Crawlers Summer Safari: All-day event. Check-in at Bear Lodge, 5600 U.S. 14. This annual event shows off our wonderful Bighorn Mountains. $175- $200. Info: bighornmountaincrawlers.com.

JULY 23

Candidate Forums: 6-8pm. Tongue River Valley Community Center, 1100 US Highway 14. Hear from all of the candidates for state, city and county offices prior to the opening of absentee voting for the primary election. Free. Info: bit.ly/Sheridan-Voter-Guide.

JULY 25

Dayton Days: All day event. 49th annual festival celebrating the community of Dayton. Free. Info: Town Hall, 307-655-2217; daytonwyoming.org.

GILLETTE

ONCE A MONTH

Open Mic Nite: 5-10pm. Frontier Auto Museum, 205 S Ross Ave. Bring your instrument, family and friends. No early sign ups. To perform you must show up to get on the list. Free to anyone who would like to perform or listen. We provide the stage, mic and PA system. Commodore Cafe will be serving food and drinks. Upcoming dates will be posted on Frontier Auto Museum’s Facebook page. Info: 307-686-5667.

MOORCROFT

ONGOING

Unearth A Story Summer Reading Program: Moorcroft Branch Library. Youth Summer Reading will run through July 31 with a family BBQ planned in August. Track hours read in order to win prizes! Adult/ Teen Summer Reading Challenge will run through August. Reading logs available for pick up any time Mid-May to August 15. Free. Info: 307-756-3232.

NEWCASTLE

JULY 28

Weston County Mini Roughstock Rodeo: 6pm. Weston County Fairgrounds. Mutton busting, mini bareback and bull riding. Call Misty to enter. Free. Info: Misty Harringtonor, 307-941-0365.

RANCHESTER

JULY 4

Fireworks in Ranchester: 1pm. Connor Battlefield State Historic Site, County Road 67. Fireworks can be viewed from Tongue River Middle School. Free. Info: Town of Ranchester, 307-655-2283.

JULY 9 AND 23

Tongue River Artist in Residence Presentations: 5:30pm. Innominate Coffeehouse and Bakery, 652 US 14. Join us for presentations from Sculptor Bruno Cansado on July 9 and Mixed Media Artist Alli Lemon on July 23. Free. Info: Innominate Coffeehouse and Bakery, 307-683-4020.

SHERIDAN

JULY 4

Sheridan’s 250th Celebration: 10am-6pm. Kendrick Park, 136 Bellevue Ave. A Fourth of July Festival in observance of America’s 250th birthday. This community picnic will feature games, vendors, food and bouncy houses. Free. Info: Sheridan County Travel and Tourism, 307-673-7120 or Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce, 307-672-2485.

JULY 5

Music on the Mall: 2pm. Sheridan College, 1 Whitney Way. Free, familyfriendly outdoor celebration with live music, local food, artisan vendors and craft brews. Info: sheridan.edu/musiconthemall.

JULY 6-9; 13-16; 20-23, 27-30 Summer Tennis Camp for Kids: 9-11am each day. Sheridan High School, 1056 Long Drive. Fun, skill building camps for kids in grades K–12 led by Sheridan High School Head Tennis Coach Scott Dickey at the Sheridan High School Tennis Courts. $96 Info: scottdickeytennis.com/camps.

JULY 7-11

Sheridan WYO Rodeo Week: Sheridan County Fairgrounds, 1583 Victoria St. Join in the WYO Rodeo fun all week long! In addition to four nightly PRCA rodeos and morning slack (preliminary elimination) performances, this week includes the World Champion Indian Relay Races, parade, street dances, Boot Kick-Off,

carnival, pancake breakfast, Sneakers & Spurs Run, The First People’s Pow Wow, Rodeo Parade and more. Prices vary depending on the event. Info: sheridanwyorodeo.com or contact Rodeo Central, 307-675-9963.

JULY 16

Film Screening & Panel Discussion: 5pm. WYO Performing Arts and Education Center, 42 N Main St. Join us for a special screening of “I Am Only a Craftsman,” a documentary by director Salvatore M. Brown. Following the screening, guests are invited to stay for a panel discussion expanding on the film’s themes. Ticket prices TBD. Tickets available for purchase at wyotheater.com. Info: bit.ly/Brinton-Only-A-Craftsman.

JULY 17

Shakespeare in the Parks: 6:30pm. Kendrick Park, 136 Bellevue Ave. Join Montana Shakespeare in the Parks for a free performance of Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice.” Pack a picnic, grab your friends and enjoy this world class performance! Free. Info: shakespeareintheparks.org.

JULY 20-21

Candidate Forums: 6-8pm. WYO Performing Arts and Education Center, 42 N Main St. Hear from all of the candidates for state, city and county offices prior to the opening of absentee voting for the primary election. Free. Info: bit.ly/Sheridan-Voter-Guide.

JULY 21

Unplug: A Bat Walk in the Park: 8:30pm. South Park Natural Area. Mason Lee of UW Biodiversity Institute will lead this fun walk. As the sun sets over South Park, these flying mammals will take to the sky for insects. We’ll use special equipment that translates bat calls into noises and images we can hear and see as the bats forage above our heads. Free, but RSVP required. Info: bit.ly/Sheridan-Bat-Walk.

JULY 22-24

Model Rocket Kids Camp: 9am-12pm each day. Phorge Makerspace, 1205 Broadway St, Suite 3. Get an introduction into model rockets through this threeday camp! Campers will learn and build the first two days and we will launch on the last day. We will have engineers serving as mentors during this camp. Financial assistance is available. $100 for Phorge members, $120 for non-members. Info: bit.ly/Phorge-Model-Rocket-Camp.

JULY 22

Summer Evening at the Mansion: 6-8pm. Trail End State Historic Site, 400 Clarendon Ave. Enjoy a free evening on the lawn of the Kendrick Mansion! Tour the museum, play badminton and croquet, bring a picnic dinner and listen to music! Info: Trail End State Historic Site, 307-674-4589; trailend.org/special-events.

JULY 24-AUGUST 3

Sheridan County Fair: All day event. Sheridan County Fairgrounds, 1583 Victoria St. Family fun focused on livestock and crafts competitions and special events. Free. Info: 307-674-2980.

JULY 25

9th Annual Tournament of Knights and Queen’s Dinner: 10am-8pm. Sheridan County Fairgrounds, 1753 Victoria St. Tournament of Knights will feature a medieval market, jousting, wizard show and more activities for adults and children. Queen’s Dinner to follow the Tournament of Knights (separate ticket needed). $20 for general admission to the joust and market. Queen’s Dinner is $40 for youth and $80 for adults. Info: CHAPS Equine Assisted Therapy, 307-673-6161.

JULY 29

Race for Freedom 5K: 5:30pm. Black Tooth Park, West 5th St. Grab your walking and running shoes to help end human trafficking. Sign up on It’s Your Race for the annual 5K run/walk event held at Blacktooth Park. $35. Info: bit.ly/ Sheridan-Race-For-Freedom-26.

03| NORTHWEST

CODY

MONDAY-SATURDAY

Cody Country Art League Gallery: 9am-5pm. 836 Sheridan Ave. Info: 307-587-3597.

DUBOIS

THURSDAYS

Farmer’s Market: 4-5:30pm. 202 E Ramshorn, Corner Entrance. Info: Martha, 307-455-2313.

GREYBULL

SECOND SATURDAYS

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

LANDER

SATURDAYS

Acoustic Music Jam: 11am-1pm. Lander Bake Shop. Info: 307-332-3237.

RIVERTON

WEDNESDAYS

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

LEGO Club: 4-5pm LEGO Club. Riverton Branch Library. Grades 2-5. Free. Info: 307-856-3556.

MEETEETSE

JULY 25

SUBMIT AN EVENT

Send events occurring in September by JULY 15!

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

Photos are always welcome.

Learn more about the WREA community at wyomingrea.org/community.

QUESTIONS & SUBMISSIONS:

 wren@ wyomingrea.org

 [307] 286-8140

 2312 Carey Avenue Cheyenne, WY 82001-3627

 wyomingrea.org/ wren-submissions

Guided Tour of the Double Dee Ranch: 9am. Shoshone National Forest. Celebrate the National Day of the American Cowboy with a trip to the historic Double Dee Ranch in the Shoshone National Forest. Explore the ranch’s history and enjoy the beauty of the forest. Participants will caravan from the museum at 9am or may meet staff at the ranch. Highclearance vehicles are recommended due to rough roads and a creek crossing. Please bring water and pack out all trash. Free. Info: 307-868-2423.

POWELL

TUESDAY-SATURDAY

Homesteader Museum Summer Hours: Tue.-Fri. 10am-4pm, Sat. 10am-2pm. Private tours available by appointment. Info: 307-754-9481, homesteader@parkcounty-wy.gov.

SHELL

JULY 18

Skulls, Bones, and Big Horn Buttes: Journaling Iconic Images of the West with Diane Fiedler: 9am-4pm. Shell Community Hall. $15 materials fee. For questions, more information and to sign up, visit ahtc-wy.org or email director@ahtc-wy.org.

THERMOPOLIS

JULY 9

Dinner & Movie: 6-7:30pm. Hot Springs County Library. Come enjoy dinner and a movie. Info: 307-864-3104.

JULY 11-12

Discovery Days: Hot Springs State Park. Live Music, storytelling, vendors, master craftsmen, artists, food trucks, wagon rides and more! Info: info@wyomingdiscoverydays.org, wyomingdiscoverydays.org.

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.

THIRD WEDNESDAYS

Food Assistance Program: 8:30-10am. 325 West St. Free food assistance for local individuals and families. All are welcome – no questions asked. Info: facebook.com/BridgerValleyFoodAssistance.

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.

From East to Wild West Classifieds

What “falls” are being referenced? Niagara Falls

Which state am I? Wisconsin

Which war was it? Civil War

What is the name of this historic trail? Oregon Trail

Can you name these two towns? Cheyenne and Buffalo

Can you name this creek? Crazy Woman Creek

What was the name of my town? And what animal is its main resident today? Huson and Greater Sage Grouse

What is the name of this town today? Clearmont

Bonus:

Who is this “Doc” of Wyoming history? Edward “Doc” Huson

WREN CLASSIFIED ADS ARE $0.75 PER SIX CHARACTERS

CONTACT:

SHAWNA@GOLINDEN.COM  970-221-3232

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, and general antiques for our antique shop. Located in Gillette, Wyoming, 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, WY highway signs and State Park signs. frontierautomuseum. com. Please call Jeff Wandler 307-680-8647, wandlerfrontier@gmail.com, or relics@ frontierauto.net.

Unfolding Lawn Chairs

BY SARAH MORRIS

Cheyenne is famous for three things: being the capital of Wyoming, our “beaches” (thank you, Garth Brooks, for helping us commit to that joke), and, of course, the Daddy of ’em All: Cheyenne Frontier Days. Every July, more than half a million people flood into the city for rodeos, concerts, pancake breakfasts and parades with enough cowboy hats to outfit half the Front Range. And when I was growing up, my family’s response to it all was simple: we left town.

That isn’t to say we disliked rodeos or parades. Rather, my parents found more solace in the scent of sagebrush and the crackle of a campfire than in the roar of a stadium crowd. So while the city filled with visitors, we loaded up the truck and headed for the Winds. That same restless impulse lingered as I grew older, a silent pull toward the high country whenever the streets below grew too crowded. But somewhere amid the beautiful chaos of raising four children in Laramie, I discovered another kind of Wyoming summer.

Here in “Laradise” during Jubilee Days, the streets fill with music and parade floats. Families stake out spots along the curb, unfolding worn lawn chairs faded by years of Wyoming wind and high-altitude sun. There is a learned cadence to it all. You learn where to sit, who to wave at and how to watch a town reveal itself one passing float at a time. The parade route is more than entertainment. It is a living map of the community with school marching bands, veterans waving from convertibles, ranchers tipping hats from the sidelines, grandparents holding court in the shade and store owners tossing candy to stickyhanded children. These celebrations aren’t merely events you observe; they are gatherings that inevitably draw you into their rhythm, binding you to the town’s collective heartbeat.

Soon, I wasn’t simply watching the parade anymore. I was managing it. Four kids, sunburned noses, melting popsicles and

endless negotiations over kettle corn and parade candy that felt surprisingly diplomatic for something that involved so much sugar. Still, there was ease in those years too. The streets felt like an extension of home, where clusters of familiar faces emerged and my children darted through the shifting crowds with the easy confidence of those who know they belong to the collective.

Those were the years when belonging felt simple. But life rarely stays simple.

The festivals continued, as they always do, but somewhere along the way I began noticing absences as much as presence. Empty spaces where people used to sit. Different arrangements of lawn chairs reflecting lives that had quietly shifted shape. I learned what it felt like to move through public celebrations while privately carrying change no one else could fully see from the curb. There were years when everything (family structures, routines, holidays, even the shape of summer itself) seemed to change at once. My children and I learned to find our balance in the traditional Wyoming fashion: sometimes by retreating to the mountains, and sometimes by unfolding lawn chairs and showing up anyway. In a small town, healing rarely happens privately. You encounter fragments of your former life at parades, grocery aisles, softball diamonds and fireworks shows. Eventually, though, those same places begin to hold your new life too.

I remember walking through the crowds at Washington Park that July with my

youngest while the older kids ran ahead with friends. The air smelled like sunscreen, warm grass and food trucks. In the midst of it sat a boy with a distinctive, lopsided grin and floppy hair. He was sporting a festive tank top and a painted flag on his cheek, sharing laughter and watermelon with Isaac as the sunset beckoned the fireworks. At the time, when he asked me, “Can you call my dad to come get me?” I couldn’t have known how deeply our lives would eventually intertwine, or the grace with which joy and heartbreak would learn to occupy the same space. Somewhere beyond that summer evening, Yumsters and I had already begun a family story neither of us could yet see clearly.

Small town festivals don’t pause for your personal history. They simply continue with a steady beat inviting us to arrive just as we are. The parades roll by. Fireworks bloom above familiar streets. Some summers bring joy so bright it feels as though it might spill over the edges of everything else. Other seasons carry change that rearranges life quietly but completely. And somewhere along the route, beneath the music and the Wyoming wind, people keep making room for one another. Sometimes our most meaningful moments can happen after we descend from the high country, when we finally unfold a lawn chair beside the people willing to weather life with us. W

INVESTING IN POWER

Whether you’re turning the lights on or brewing your morning coffee, electricity is vital to our way of life. It powers our communities and keeps us safe. That’s why we’re investing in infrastructure that strengthens reliability, ensuring power today and for generations to come.