WYOMING
AUG 2020
RURAL ELECTRIC NEWS
Staying Afloat Wyoming distilleries shift to high-proof hand sanitizer JUST PICTURE IT
Quarantine
GRETCHEN GASVODA-KELSO
Creating a Spark
We’re adding enough utility-scale wind and solar projects to double our renewable resources by 2024. Combined with our existing projects, that’s enough to power nearly 850,000 homes. To learn about how we are increasing clean energy, visit www.tristate.coop/responsibleenergyplan
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THE WREN MAGAZINE WYOMING RURAL ELECTRIC NEWS The official publication of the Wyoming Rural Electric Association The WREN Magazine, Wyoming Rural Electric News, volume 66, number 7, August 2020 (ISSN 1098-2876) is published monthly except for January for $12 per year by Linden Press, Inc., 214 West Lincolnway, Suite 21C, Cheyenne, WY 82001. Periodicals postage paid at Cheyenne, WY (original entry office) and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER – Send address changes to: The WREN Magazine, Wyoming Rural Electric News, c/o Linden Press, Inc., 223 S. Howes St., Fort Collins, CO 80521, [970] 221-3232. Include 3-digit co-op code. WREN Magazine is owned and controlled by rural electric cooperatives in the interest of the economic progress of rural areas specifically and the entire population of Wyoming and the nation generally. WREN Magazine has a total average monthly paid circulation of 40,985 for 11 months ending September 2019. WREN Magazine is delivered to rural electric member/ consumers and other subscribers throughout the entire state of Wyoming and the nation. Acceptance of advertising by WREN Magazine does not imply endorsement of the product or services advertised by the publisher or Wyoming electric cooperatives.
WREN STAFF Publisher: Linden Press, Inc. Editor: Maggie York
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Tri-State G&T, Westminster, CO – Dick Clifton, President Garland Light & Power, Powell – Scott Smith, Vice President Deseret Power, South Jordan, UT – Gary Nix, Secretary/Treasurer
ON THE COVER 16
CENTERPIECE
Staying Afloat STORY BY RACHEL GIRT
Basin Electric, Bismarck, ND – Paul Baker Big Horn REC, Basin – John Joyce Bridger Valley Electric, Mountain View – Ruth Rees Carbon Power, Saratoga – Kenny Curry High Plains Power, Riverton – Hearley Dockham High West Energy, Pine Bluffs – Michael Lerwick Lower Valley Energy, Afton – Fred Brog Niobrara, Lusk – Andy Greer Powder River Energy, Sundance – Mike Lohse Wheatland REA, Wheatland – Sandra Hranchak Wyrulec, Torrington – Dewey Hageman
COVER PHOTO:
Self-quarantine, by Megan Kennedy of Wheatland Rural Electric Association. To see more reader photos visit Just Picture It on page 32.
SEND ADDRESS CHANGES AND CORRESPONDENCE TO WREN Magazine • 214 West Lincolnway, Suite 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001, [307] 772-1968 wren@wyomingrea.org
SUBSCRIPTION RATES $12 per year, Single copies $1.50 each
ADVERTISING To purchase, contact Dhara Rose: [307] 996-6552 • dhara@golinden.com
OFFICE OF WREN OWNER 2312 Carey Ave., Cheyenne, WY 82001
OFFICE OF WREN PUBLISHER Linden Press, Inc., 214 West Lincolnway, Suite 21C, Cheyenne, WY 82001
PRINTED WITH VEGETABLE INK
FEATURES YOUTH 06 CO-OP L O W E R VA L L E Y
ENERGY'S SCOTT S H U M WAY
22 C R E AT I N G
CO-OP SPOTLIGHT A S PA R K
BY RACHEL GIRT
STATE NEWS & EVENTS 07 THE CURRENT 13 COWBOY STATE BUZZ 30 WHAT'S HAPPENING
ESSAYS & ANECDOTES NOTES 04 WREA YO U C A N'T
STOP CHANGE
BY SHAWN TAYLOR
ON THE RANGE 26 HOME TURNING TO O U R RO O T S
BY GINA SIGEL
US 36 ENLIGHTEN GOING THE
S O C I A L D I S TA N C E W I T H DA D
BY CHUCK LARSEN
FROM OUR READERS COOKS 28 COUNTRY PEANUTS TO PAPER 29 PEN THE OLD
COTTONWOOD TREE
PICTURE IT 32 JUST QUARANTINE
JUST FOR FUN CORNER 21 KIDS' WA I T E R A N D WA I T R E S S
REVIEW 24 BOOK W O R L D WA R I I
POW CAMPS OF W YO M I N G
BY CHERYL O’BRIEN
25 PUZZLE POP(CORN)
C U LT U R E Q U I Z
BY KENDRA SPANJER
WREA NOTES
‘You can’t stop change any more than you can stop the suns from setting.’ SH AW N TAY LO R
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
These words of Star Wars wisdom are spoken by Shmi Skywalker to her son, Anakin, in the film “The Phantom Menace.” Wise words indeed as we all face changes in our daily lives, be it personally or professionally. Change is hard! But as Shmi says, we can’t stop it. During “the ‘Rona” we’ve all had to adapt to change. Now that we’re getting into the fall season, people will have to adapt to changes in educating our children. Business owners, many of whom have already had to deal with changes in how they work, will more than likely have to continue to adapt. Beginning over 80 years ago, when the electrification of rural America first began, we’ve gone through many changes. Sometimes these changes are subtle, and other changes are fairly monumental, such as the merging of co-ops, territorial battles with other utilities, and policy decisions both at the state and federal levels that force change upon us. Whatever the world throws at us, your rural electric cooperative is ready, willing and able to adapt … so long as it makes sense and furthers our collective mission of enhancing the livelihoods of our members and the communities we serve. Some of these changes, or proposed changes (regulatory and legislative proposals that threaten the cooperatives), we’ve been fighting for years, and we will continue to push back because it doesn’t fit our mission. With regard to other changes, however, we have stepped up to the challenge.
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AUG 2020
One example of this is in the world of broadband or internet service for rural Wyoming. For better or worse, people (co-op members, elected officials, etc.) have been asking why the rural electric cooperatives can’t just recreate the process of electrifying rural Wyoming for broadband? While we’ve had a few cooperatives dip their toes into the broadband water, and one system does provide satellite internet service, our position has been that we are willing and able to assist existing broadband providers in whatever ways we can. One way we can assist in this endeavor is to update our existing rights-of-way so that broadband providers can use our current infrastructure for broadband purposes. This will require a change in how landowners allow access to their property. We are very cognizant of what this means, and we value our relationships with all of our members and landowners. We trust that we can reach a common goal of working with rural telecommunications providers to get the internet service to all of our members who need and deserve it. Having said that, there will be more to come on this issue. Until then, let’s all embrace the change as best we can, because as Shmi said, we can’t stop it any more than we can stop the suns from setting.
‘‘
This is one of the best areas in the nation to raise bees.
’’
− Dusty Backer, Backer Bees
Environment isn’t just a buzz word at Basin Electric. Backer Bees has bees at Glenharold Mine, a reclaimed coal mine that used to supply coal to our first power plant. The reclaimed pasture has a variety of flowers−alfalfa, clover, sunflowers, wildflowers−making it one of the best areas in the nation to raise bees. Environmental stewardship has always been a guiding principle for us. That’s why we’re committed to reclaiming and restoring land back to its natural state, like Glenharold Mine.
Your energy starts here. basinelectric.com
CO-OP YOUTH
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT SHUMWAY
CO-OP YOUTH
WREN: Tell us about your studies and interests. SS: I personally wish to go into a path of sociology. Being able to understand and help people on an emotional level as well as physical is an aspiration of mine. I currently host weekly group problem solving and team building sessions for many people around me.
WREN: How have your hometown, family and/or friends influenced you?
Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives are proud to support our youth, giving college scholarships and lineman scholarships. In addition, our co-ops sponsor high school students on the NRECA Youth Tour in June and Youth Leadership Camp in July.
THIS MONTH: Lower Valley Energy's Scott Shumway attended the Youth Rally summer energy education camp in Caldwell, Idaho in 2018. He returned as a camp director in 2019.
SCOTT GAYLON SHUMWAY HOMETOWN: Bedford HIGH SCHOOL: Star Valley High School YEAR OF GRADUATION: 2021
While Youth Tour and youth camps were canceled this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, your co-op may be taking applications for next year. See the insert in the center of the magazine for information from your local rural electric cooperative.
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AUG 2020
COLLEGE: Undecided MAJOR STUDY INTEREST: Sociology or Psychology
SS: I have personally seen a lot of heartache and sadness from the people around me. It is because of this reason that I want to help people. My family has always shown an immense amount of love for me and the rest of my family. I want to spread this love to as many people as possible.
WREN: What are your plans for the future? SS: The future is a fickle thing. One moment you're believing it will go one way, and the next moment it prevents the eventuality from happening. My future is not set in stone. How could it be? The only thing that I know is that I want to help people. I wish to allow creativity to flow within the world and plant seeds of inspiration within the hearts and minds of people. The only true thing set in stone is to encourage creativity and love. Whether that means by becoming a psychologist or writing a book, I plan on helping others to grow.
THE CURRENT
LINEMAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND A GOOD PROBLEM IS STILL A PROBLEM, BUT WITH YOUR HELP, OURS CAN BE FIXED. Due to its popularity and the generosity of our board, and increased interest in the trade, WREA’s Lineman Scholarship Fund is in danger of running out of funding.
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
WHAT IT IS The WREA Lineman Scholarship Fund offers grants to one or more individuals, including recent high school graduates who are interested in a career as a lineworker and plan to attend an approved regional lineworker training program.
Over the past several years the board has awarded many scholarships, donating a total of $146,540.00 since 2015.
$
$
2015
2016
14.9K 27.5K
CANDIDATES
2017
$
45K
35K
2018
2019
FUNDING
APPRECIATION We appreciate your support!
To be considered, applicants must submit
The scholarship's main source of funding has been
their education and work experience, three
a golf tournament, which
letters of recommendation and a transcript
was canceled this year.
of grades. If the candidate has not attended
Vendors, cooperatives and
an educational institution in the three years
others who do business
prior to submitting the application,
with cooperatives have been
During the last few months, WREA members and friends have contributed to the scholarship fund. A heartfelt “thank you” to everyone who has reached out!
solicited for donations to
Candidates must submit their scholarship application to the Wyoming Rural Electric Association; they are then passed on to
the fund. It has been very successful, raising as much as $20,000 in some years.
the WREA board for consideration.
DONATIONS CAN BE MADE BY:
30K
$
the application form, a resumé describing
the transcript is not necessary.
$
Calling WREA Office
Manager Robin Feezer: (307) 634-0727
But we aren’t done yet. If you haven’t already, please consider donating to the WREA Lineman Scholarship Fund.
Mailing a check to the WREA Office: 2312 Carey Ave. Cheyenne, WY 82001 Make check out to WREA Lineman Scholarship AUG 2020
7
THE CURRENT
1. TRANSMISSION LINES Electricity enters the substation via high-voltage transmission lines.
What's in a Substation?
2. LIGHTNING ARRESTER Safely transfers lightning surge current to the ground.
5. POWER TRANSFORMER Lowers the transmission voltage to 14,400/24,940 or 7,200/12,470 volts, depending on the rural electric co-op’s needs.
3. THREE PHASE AIR BRAKE SWITCH Disconnects the substation from the transmission feeder circuit.
7. POTENTIAL TRANSFORMERS Used to lower voltage for measurement.
4. PERIMETER SECURITY FENCE WITH WARNING SIGNS Substations are extremely dangerous! Never enter a substation for any reason.
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AUG 2020
6. CURRENT TRANSFORMERS Used to lower current values for metering purposes.
NEXT MONTH: TRANSFORMERS
Wyoming's rural electric cooperatives build and maintain substations to provide safe, reliable electricity to members. When electricity enters the substation, it passes through a series of devices to step down and regulate the outgoing voltage.
8. VOLTAGE REGULATORS Used to step up or step down voltage according to demand.
9. VACUUM RECLOSURES Can automatically open a circuit that is faulted to protect the substation.
10. DISTRIBUTION LINES These power lines, which often leave the substation underground, carry electricity from the substation to co-op members’ homes and businesses.
AUG 2020
9
THE CURRENT
Assisted Living
Annual Meeting Roundup
IN DUBOIS, WYOMING
At this time of year in any other year, almost all of the Wyoming Rural
59 miles from the entrance to Yellowstone Privately owned, non-profit Medicaid approved 10% monthly discount for private pay Veterans We are currently operating under CDC guidelines as well as federal, state, and local health directives to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. We will resume our regular “Happy Hour” and tours of the facility when social distancing recommendations are lifted!
Electric Association’s 11 utility cooperatives would have met in person at an annual meeting. Members would have had the chance to elect board members, share a meal, and possibly bring home a door prize. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and statewide ban on gatherings of large groups of people, cooperative leadership had to decide how to proceed. Each of the cooperatives made a decision based on their particular membership’s needs.
01 Want more information? (307) 455-2645 5643 US HWY 26 • Dubois WY • warmvalleylodgewy.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF LOWER VALLEY ENERGY
Living assisted on the Wind River – western style
LOWER VALLEY ENERGY MEETS ONLINE
Lower Valley Energy (LVE) may prefer to conduct business in person, but board chairman Fred Brog kept a positive outlook as he began the co-op’s annual meeting on Facebook Live June 25. “We’re excited by having this medium as an opportunity to reach more of our members as possible,” Brog said during the meeting. He paused to note that LVE doesn’t have “members,” it has “owners,” all of whom own the co-op.
Wills, Trusts & Probate Land Use GAY WOODHOUSE TARA NETHERCOTT HOLLI WELCH JEFF VAN FLEET
10
DEBORAH RODEN JOANNE SWEENEY KATYE BROWN CHRISTOPHER BRENNAN
1912 Capitol Avenue Suite 500 Cheyenne, WY 82001 (307) 432-9399 WRNLawFirm.com
AUG 2020
Brog also spoke of current events. “We’re all in the same boat during these challenging times, and Lower Valley has adapted well. We made the decision to hold a virtual meeting in an effort to provide as much stability in our sphere of influence during these unusual times.” During the meeting, Brog and CEO/ President Jim Webb talked about LVE’s rates for electricity, which are kept low by investments and careful planning. Webb also announced that LVE had purchased 7 acres of land next to the coop’s Jackson Hole office to build employee housing because of the high cost of homes in the area. Longtime LVE employee, then longtime board member Linda Schmidt was recognized for her service during the meeting. Schmidt retired from the
Lower Valley Energy board chairman Fred Brog speaks during the annual meeting on June 25.
board and was given the Craig Thomas Cooperative Spirit Award by the Wyoming Rural Electric Association in February. While up to 34 people watched the meeting as it took place, more than 2,500 LVE owners sent in ballots to vote in the co-op’s election for board members in districts 1, 6 and 7. Sen. Dan Dockstader was reelected for the District 1 seat, incumbent Scott Anderson of District 6 retained his seat and Linda Schmidt of District 7 chose not to run for her open seat. Ray Elser ran uncontested for the District 7 seat and won.
THE CURRENT
02
FREE ADMISSION
CARBON POWER & LIGHT VOTES BY MAIL
Presented by the Town of Dubois
Carbon Power & Light members sent in hundreds of mail-in ballots to elect its board this year after concerns for the COVID-19 pandemic forced it to postpone its annual meeting. General Manager Russell Waldner appeared on Facebook Live June 29 to announce election results and door prizes. He noted that the co-op had received 502 ballots for this year’s election, while last year the co-op only had 170 members register. “We got a big bump in the number of people that were interested,” Waldner said. During the livestream, Waldner used a computer program to randomly draw two names from the list of members who turned in ballots. The co-op gave one winner a $500 cash prize, the other winner was awarded a door prize.
Carbon Power & Light elected board members for three-year terms in three districts. Laurie Forster was reelected to the District 1 seat despite a challenge from David Fairbanks. John Page and Clay Thompson ran unopposed and were reelected to District 2 and District 3, respectively. John Page had been appointed to District 2 in March after Bill Sherwood stepped down.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 www.duboiswyomingairport.com
Questions? Call 307-455-2557
WEARING A MASK REDUCES RISK OF TRANSMISSION. Protect yourself and others. Transmission Probability
VERY HIGH
HIGH
MEDIUM
LOW
VERY LOW
Asymptomatic COVID-19 Carrier
Uninfected Person
cheyenneregional.org/covid AUG 2020
11
THE CURRENT
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE 2020 CENSUS
The census data provides monetary funds for Wyoming. Wyoming towns and counties each received about $600/person from state tax distribution based on census data in the 2019 fiscal year.
CENSUS INFORMATION IS USED IN WYOMING FOR PLANNING AND FUNDING
NEW SCHOOL CONSTRUC TION
MEDICARE DISTRIBUTION
ROADS AND BRIDGES
POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENT LOCATIONS
LIBR ARIES AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS
THE CENSUS IN YOUR COMMUNITY
THE CENSUS IS SAFE
The census will not be mailed to P.O. Box addresses. Instead, a
The U.S. Census Bureau is bound by law to keep your
census worker will bring a postcard or questionnaire to your home.
answers strictly confidential. Data cannot be used for law enforcement purposes or to determine personal
How to identify a census field representative:
eligibility for government benefits.
The representative must present
The representative
an I.D. badge with:
The census will NEVER ask for:
will have a letter from the director of the
THEIR PHOTOGR APH
SOCIAL SECURIT Y NUMBER S
U.S. Census Bureau and can provide the
A DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE WATERMARK
number for the regional office for verification. Wyoming residents can
AN E XPIR ATION DATE
BANK OR CREDIT CARD INFORMATION
MONE Y
also call 211 for census information.
ANY THING REL ATED TO POLITICAL PARTIES
CENSUS TIMELINE 2010
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
SEPTEMBER 30
The last census took place 10 years ago.
Census information was sent by mail. Some households received a postcard, others received a questionnaire.
Reminder letters were sent out.
Census workers began visiting homes that haven’t responded.
The U.S. Census Bureau announced August 3 that the census will close on September 30.
MAKE SURE YOU COUNT!
AUG 2020
The next census will take place 10 years later.
Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives encourage you to participate in the 2020 Census.
For more information call 211, log onto 2020census.gov or visit your local library. 12
2030
Sources: Wyoming Department of Administration & Information Economic Analysis Division, Wyoming State Library.
PHOTO BY LEAH YETTER
COWBOY STATE BUZZ
Carbon XPRIZE Research Begins ADAPTED FROM THE WYOMING INFRASTRUCTURE AUTHORITY
In June, the Wyoming Integrated Test Center (ITC) at Dry Fork Station in Gillette welcomed the first team of finalists competing for the $20 million Carbon XPRIZE. The CO2Concrete team includes researchers from UCLA Samueli School of Engineering and professionals in the energy and environmental sectors. Professor Gaurav Sant leads the team’s efforts towards the industrial realization of CO2Concrete, a process for carbon dioxide utilization by manufacturing a lowcarbon concrete-equivalent material. Five Carbon XPRIZE teams from around the globe will conduct their research at the ITC — their arrival was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The competitors will use flue gas from the coal-fired Dry Fork Station for their research. Each team is provided with a test bay to connect their research equipment. To learn more, visit carbonxprize.org. AUG 2020
13
Make your home more comfortable than ever
“To you, it’s the perfect lift chair. To me, it’s the best sleep chair I’ve ever had.” — J. Fitzgerald, VA
NOW
also available in Genuine Italian Leather (and new Chestnut color)
Three Chairs in One Sleep/Recline/Lift
ACCREDITED BUSINESS A+
Pictured: Leather chair chestnut color. Chestnut color also available in Duralux fabric
You can’t always lie down in bed and sleep. Heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches– and dozens of other ailments and worries. Those are the nights you’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in: one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises your feet and legs just where you want them, supports your head and shoulders properly, and operates at the touch of a button. Our Perfect Sleep Chair® does all that and more. More than a chair or recliner, it’s designed to provide total comfort. Choose your preferred heat and massage settings, for hours of soothing relaxation. Reading or watching TV? Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of settings. And best of all, it features a powerful lift mechanism that tilts the entire chair forward, making it easy to stand. You’ll love the other benefits, too. It helps with correct spinal alignment and promotes back
pressure relief, to prevent back and muscle pain. The overstuffed, oversized biscuit style back and unique seat design will cradle you in comfort. Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support when sitting or reclining. It even has a battery backup in case of a power outage. White glove delivery included in shipping charge. Professionals will deliver the chair to the exact spot in your home where you want it, unpack it, inspect it, test it, position it, and even carry the packaging away! You get your choice of Genuine Italian leather, stain and water repellent custom-manufactured Duralux with the classic leather look or plush microfiber in a variety of colors to fit any decor. New Chestnut color only available in Genuine Italian Leather and long lasting Duralux. Call now!
The Perfect Sleep Chair®
1-888-609-4735 REMOTE-CONTROLLED EASILY SHIFTS FROM FLAT TO A STAND-ASSIST POSITION
Please mention code 113387 when ordering. Chestnut
Genuine Leather Chestnut
Tan
Chocolate
Blue
Burgundy Cashmere Chocolate
Indigo
DuraLux II Microfiber
Because each Perfect Sleep Chair is a custom-made bedding product, we can only accept returns on chairs that are damaged or defective. © 2020 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.
46547
Footrest may vary by model
Burgundy
Long Lasting DuraLux
COWBOY STATE BUZZ
COVID-19 RESOURCES The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to economic hardship for many of our cooperative members. These are just a few of the resources available to help.
WHERE TO SEEK HELP IN WYOMING ENERGY SHARE
SCAMS
This aid program provides a onetime disbursement of up to $400 per household for energy costs. A payment for propane customers is also available. Assistance is distributed by the local Salvation Army field office. Call 303-8669296 to find the nearest office. Donations can be made to Energy Share of Wyoming, c/o Align, 1401 Airport Parkway Suite 300, Cheyenne, WY 82001.
Beware of phone calls, texts or emails offering money or threatening utility disconnects. Never click links or give out personal information to sources you can’t verify.
NO KID HUNGRY Wyoming First Lady Jennie Gordon’s Wyoming Hunger Initiative has compiled a list of resources by county, including school feeding programs. Call 307-274-0365 or visit nohungerwyo.org. RURAL ELECTRIC CO-OPS Each of the Wyoming Rural Electric Association’s 11 utility cooperatives have a system in place to help members. Look to the center of this magazine to find news and contact information for your co-op.
UNEMPLOYMENT CLAIMS Wyoming Workforce Services offers the latest information on state and federal aid at wyomingworkforce.org.
File unemployment claims anytime online at wyui. wyo.gov/benefits/home.do, or call 307-473-3789 during office hours. USDA The Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued an extensive resource guide with opportunities for immediate relief. Call your local office, or log on to rd.usda.gov/coronavirus for information. WIC
HOW TO HELP Those who would like to help others can consider donating to trusted charity organizations, visiting local restaurants and shopping or buying gift certificates at local businesses.
The Wyoming WIC program, also known as the Women, Infants and Children program provides nutritious foods and education as well as breastfeeding support and health care referrals. Recently updated guidelines are available. For example, a 3-person family with income of $40,182/ year or less and children under age 5 may be eligible.
WIC clinics are located throughout the state and can be found online at https://health.wyo.gov/ publichealth/wic/ or by calling 1-888-996-9378. WYOMING 2-1-1 Dial 2-1-1 or 1-888-425-7138, Mon-Fri 8a-6p to reach a community resources specialist to find local help for everything from food and housing assistance to mental health care through both government and nonprofit agencies. Wyoming 2-1-1 is also offering reliable information on COVID-19. Online at wy211.communityos.org. WYOMING BUSINESS COUNCIL The economic development agency is helping businesses by distributing funds from the federal CARES Act. Visit wyomingbusiness.org or call 307-777-2800. See the payments distributed so far at WyOpen.gov. AUG 2020
15
Stayin Afloat T E RC EC NE TN E RPI ECE PIECE
KOLTISKA DISTILLERY
JACKSON HOLE STILL WORKS
COWBOY COUNTRY DISTILLING
SWEETWATER SPIRITS
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BACKWARDS DISTILLING COMPANY, CHRONICLES DISTILLING, COWBOY COUNTRY DISTILLING, KOLTISKA DISTILLERY, SINGLE TRACK SPIRITS AND SWEETWATER SPIRITS.
ng at JACKSON HOLE STILL WORKS &CHRONICLES DISTILLING
BY RACHEL GIRT
BACKWARDS DISTILLING COMPANY
KOLTISKA DISTILLERY
WYOMING’S DISTILLERIES USE HIGH-PROOF EQUIPMENT TO KEEP STATE SAFE When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Wyoming distilleries quickly pivoted their business strategy to produce much-needed hand sanitizer for their communities and the state. Producing thousands of gallons of hand sanitizer has provided a lifeline to the state's distilleries, many of which had returned to making Wyoming-made spirits, as well as offering sanitizer for sale by June. "It has been a win-win situation for everyone," said Amber Pollock, who co-owns Backwards Distilling Company with her parents and brother. "We cover our operational costs, and community organizations and businesses as they reopen can have the item necessary to continue their operations."
SINGLE TRACK SPIRITS
A nationwide container shortage led distilleries to use any FDA-approved bottle, carton or bucket they could find.
AUG 2020
17
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRONICLES DISTILLING
NATIONAL SHORTAGE
On March 16, a few days ahead of the mandated statewide closure, Backwards Distilling closed its tasting room which opened less than a year ago in downtown Casper. Three days later, local restaurants and bars, many of which carry Backwards products, closed. Losing the majority of its revenue stream, Backwards Distilling temporarily laid off its employees, leaving the four owners to run the distillery. The company devised creative ways to raise revenue, selling cocktail kits, ready-made cocktails and its signature spirits curbside and hosting a cocktail video series where viewers could virtually tip the bartenders. "We were trying to figure out how to survive this when we started getting calls," Pollock said. "The effort went sort of from 0 to 60 really quickly." Pollock saw an opportunity to help her community and maybe save her familyowned business. To address the national shortage, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had relaxed its regulations on hand sanitizer production — which is regulated like an over-the-counter drug — if the FDAapproved recipe was followed. Distilleries were uniquely positioned to make hand sanitizer because they have the distilling equipment necessary to make high-proof ethanol alcohol, the main ingredient for sanitizer, Pollock explained. However, Pollock discovered that insurance regulations would only allow distilleries to donate hand sanitizer. 18
AUG 2020
Chase Lesher, co-owner of Chronicles Distilling in Cheyenne, wears protective clothing while measuring hydrogen peroxide for hand sanitizer at Jackson Hole Still Works. The two companies teamed up to create hand sanitizer at the Jackson distillery.
"We had no revenue coming, so we couldn't produce it, donate it and continue to survive as a business." Several distilleries partnered together and reached out to the Wyoming Business Council for assistance. They quickly developed a plan to ramp up production, coordinate procurement of ingredients and distribute the sanitizer. The money to pay for their supplies came from Imminent Threat Grants funds available through the Community Development Block Grant Program, administered by the Business Council. The Business Council awarded a $250,000 grant to the Town of Mills, which worked with Backwards Distilling Company, Chronicles Distilling in Cheyenne, Jackson Hole Still Works in Jackson, Koltiska Distillery in Sheridan, Single Track Spirits in Cody and Wyoming Whiskey in Kirby. Outside of the grant, Arcola Distillery in Carpenter, Cowboy Country in Pinedale, Pine Bluffs Distilling in Pine Bluffs and Sweetwater Spirits in Lander have made sanitizer in their communities.
Chronicles Distilling sold some hand sanitizer locally, including to the Wyoming Home store in Cheyenne.
PHOTO BY KELLY ETZEL DOUGLAS
Early on during the COVID-19 crisis, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, at least 60 percent alcohol, when soap and water were not available. The CDC recommendation caused a panicked rush to buy sanitizer in February, leading to severe national shortages.
PRODUCTION TO DELIVERY Within a matter of about two weeks after initial conversations with the Business Council, the group successfully distributed hand sanitizer in five-gallon containers up to 55-gallon drums to every county free of charge due to the grant funding, Pollock said. The distillers distributed the sanitizer to each county's emergency management team, who prioritized where the sanitizers went in the counties. Usually sanitizer went first to hospitals, first responders, clinics, nursing home facilities and grocery stores. Pollock said procuring ingredients like glycerol and hydrogen peroxide and smaller dispensers were the biggest challenges to the effort. Backwards Distilling received packaging donations from Pepsi-Cola of Casper for smaller bottles while Sutherlands and The Home Depot helped with the larger containers.
Hand sanitizer at Backwards Distilling Company in Casper.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BACKWARDS DISTILLING COMPANY
For its first sanitizer batch, Backwards Distillery used 150 gallons of high-proof ethanol, originally destined to make vodka, but later turned to other sources.
WORKING TOGETHER
"We did not do this for profit," said David DeFazio, Wyoming Whiskey co-founder, explaining his company's involvement in the effort. "It is not our intention to get into the hand sanitizer business. Our intention was to help the state during a time of need and then get back to what we do best — make whiskey." The fast and furious sanitizer production effort leveled out in early June. Although still supplying the counties, the majority of the distilleries returned to making their products, as well as starting to sell sanitizer to businesses, individuals and other organizations.
This year's release for Wyoming Whiskey is called Hole in the Wall, honoring the outlaw past in and around Hot Springs County. The Whiskey Shop in Kirby is open for tastings and sales, but distillery tours have been temporarily put on hold. Backwards Distillery has returned to distilling its circus-inspired spirits alongside its hand sanitizer, which now features donated artwork by Casper artist Zachary Pullen. In June, the small business had started the process of bringing back its employees to reopen its tasting room. 20
AUG 2020
PHOTO COURTESY OF KOLTISKA DISTILLERY
Work continues as usual for Wyoming Whiskey. "We are back to making whiskey and will continue to do so unless additional alcohol is needed for hand sanitizer," DeFazio said. He plans to release this year's Wyoming-only bourbon in the summer.
PHOTO BY DEREK SPROVERI
With the largest production capacity in the state, Wyoming Whiskey helped jumpstart the overall effort by using its grain on hand to make 1,500 gallons of alcohol and ship it to Backwards Distillery. Since Wyoming Whiskey's still is not made to kick off 190 proof spirits, Backwards Distillery re-distilled it up to 190 and then added in the other ingredients necessary to make a finished hand sanitizer product.
April Bocek prepares to work with ingredients for hand sanitizer at Koltiska Distillery in Sheridan.
Darren Rowe loads alcohol for hand
sanitizer at Wyoming Whiskey in Kirby.
"We're really proud to be able to help other businesses in our community reopen safely," Pollock said. "I'm super thankful that so many other Wyoming companies are choosing to get sanitizer from Wyoming distilleries. It's not a long-term solution for us, but they are helping keep our businesses afloat." W Rachel Girt is a freelance writer and owner of Girt Communications based in Cheyenne.
KIDS' CORNER
Waitstaff in Wyoming
02
Wyoming Workforce Services counted 4,880 waiters and waitresses working in Wyoming in March 2019 and reported their average wage at $9.47 per hour. Workforce Services counted a total of 25,310 people working in the food service industry in the state, including waiters and waitresses, cooks and baristas.
01
What do Waiters and Waitresses do? Waiters and waitresses help customers in restaurants and cafes. They take orders for food and drinks, bring the orders to the table and make sure customers have what they asked for.
P
W U I GRO
04
WHEN
be a o t t an
How to Become a Waiter or Waitress You don’t need a college degree to be a waiter or waitress, but you do need excellent people skills to make sure your customers are happy with their dining experience.
03
Iw
ress
Wait / r e t i Wa
04
Tools of the Trade What does a waiter or waitress need to work every day?
Circle the correct items. 05
Quiz Match this Wyoming establishment with the town where you’ll find it. Location
A. Born in a Barn
Sinclair
B. Claimsteak Restaurant
Saratoga
C. Hi-16 Drive Inn
Newcastle
D. Lira’s
Afton
E. Stogie Joe’s
Riverton
F. Su Casa Café
Laramie
G. Trapper’s Steakhouse
Lingle
H. Tunnel Inn
Banner
I. Whistle Pig Saloon
Upton
J. Remys Diner
Worland
Answers: A. Laramie, B. Riverton, C. Newcastle, D. Lingle, E. Worland, F. Sinclair, G. Afton, H. Banner, I. Saratoga, J. Upton
Establishment
CO-OP SPOTLIGHT
GRETCHEN GASVODA-KELSO
Creating a Spark VOLUNTEER SHARES LIFETIME OF LEARNING
BY RACHEL GIRT
Gretchen Gasvoda-Kelso hopes to instill the importance of giving back to the 4-H youth in Big Horn County.
22
AUG 2020
Over the last nine years, she has worked with hundreds of youth as the Big Horn County 4-H/Youth Development Extension Educator through the University of Wyoming (UW) Cooperative Extension Service. Her 4-H kids support many community events throughout the county and have become like family to her, she said. Gasvoda-Kelso’s lifelong commitment to community service stems from her upbringing, she said. “I was raised to help people out and be engaged in the community.” She grew up on family farm and ranch in Montana operated by her father and his two brothers. The eight cousins were best friends, working hard side by side to help out on the property. When their chores were completed, the cousins escaped to the local swimming hole in the creek or participated in 4-H or FFA activities. Their family spent vacations at the county fair. “My mom and dad really believed in the importance of 4-H and they made sure all those benefits were available to my brother and I,” Gasvoda-Kelso said. “Those are just good family roots to provide for your kids.” Through 4-H, Gasvoda-Kelso traveled to Washington, D.C. and Chicago and received a 4-H scholarship to college where she earned an associate’s degree in animal science from Northwest Community College in Powell. She then went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Utah State University. After graduating college, she joined her parents, who had moved to Wyoming, and worked running cows for her father and as a substitute teacher. Discovering a love for teaching, she started a preschool
first in Burlington and then one in Basin. In 2001, she became the county’s Cent$ible Nutrition Program educator, launching what has become an almost 20-year career with the UW Cooperative Extension Office. “I work in the best county with such a very supportive community,” she said. “I feel pretty blessed to work here.” In 2011, Gasvoda-Kelso became the 4-H educator, providing opportunities for youth engagement for learning through 4-H throughout the county. Her ongoing commitment to 4-H youth was recognized in 2016 when the Wyoming Association of Extension 4-H Agents gave her the Champion 4-H Educator award. “I love that this is a lifetime learning job,” she said. “I have had to learn new things, like sewing, to try to create a spark in our kids.” Separating what Gasvoda-Kelso does for work versus her personal life is difficult, especially when it comes to volunteering. “It all goes hand in hand,” she said. Through her job at the Cooperative Extension Office, Gasvoda-Kelso coordinates outreach education programs and volunteer work through 4-H. As an Elks Lodge member, she also volunteers. One of the more popular programs is adopting a veteran at Christmas. Helping facilitate the program, Gasvoda-Kelso obtains names from the local nursing homes and other organizations, matches veterans to community members and the Elks Lodge helps with the delivery of presents.
“It’s our amazing community that truly makes this happen, not me,” Gasvoda-Kelso explained. Gasvoda-Kelso's desire to help others also led to her and her husband fostering 18 children over the years. PHOTO COURTESY OF GRETCHEN GASVODA-KELSO
You help others because someone is in need, not for a pat on the back or recognition,” Gasvoda-Kelso explained. The Big Horn Rural Electric Company member was nominated for the WREN Coop Spotlight by her friends and neighbors.
“Fostering kids was a great blessing to us and how we built our family,” she said. She explained that they adopted three boys, siblings who they had fostered, as well as a girl from Russia. For her work fostering children, Gasvoda-Kelso was named a Wyoming Department of Family Services Hero in 2004. She enjoys seeing her former foster kids. “It's fun to see them, but you hope that you gave them a little bit of a foundation that was positive along the way.” W Rachel Girt is a freelance writer and owner of Girt Communications based in Cheyenne. AUG 2020
23
BOOK REVIEW
World War II POW Camps of Wyoming BY CHERYL O’BRIEN Wyoming’s 19 prisoner of war camps held several thousand incarcerated Italian and German prisoners during World War II. Historical records, photographs and personal stories shared by camp residents reveal details about this little-known part of the state’s history. Local agricultural and timber industries utilized POW labor, while positive relationships developed between the civilian area residents and prisoners. Author Cheryl O’Brien recounts the experiences of the prisoners and the intriguing story of how U.S. military personnel, prisoners and residents — in spite of their differences — collaborated to cope with the challenges of life in a POW camp.
DESCRIPTION BY THE HISTORY PRESS
ORDERING INFORMATION:
WIN A
FREE
COPY
Name:
OUR JUNE BOOK WINNER:
Phone:
Address:
ROBERT TAYLOR
2019 | 158p. | $21.99 paperback ISBN: 9781467143820 Publisher: The History Press
OF MEETEETSE
Available at local booksellers, online, or by calling the publisher at 888-313-2665.
ENTRIES DUE BY SEPTEMBER 10 One entry per household, please. 24
AUG 2020
WWII
c/o WREN Magazine 214 W. Lincolnway, Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001
wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions
PUZZLE
Pop(corn) Culture Quiz BY KENDRA SPANJER
2020 may be the first summer in recent memory without a blockbuster film—a commercially successful and culturally popular movie.
Instead of going to the theater, why not grab your favorite candy, a tub of popcorn, and the best spot on the couch and watch an oldie-but-goodie! In a time when everyone is staying closer to home, the movie characters featured on these 12 famous movie posters stayed home too. Can you still correctly identify each box office hit without them?
ANSWERS ON PAGE 35 AUG 2020
25
HOME ON THE RANGE
Turning to Our Roots BY GINA SIGEL I don't know about your house, but the early months of COVID-19 turned our family on its head. The world came to a screeching halt. Suddenly, I was homeschooling kiddos (via computer, with sometimes spotty internet) in three different grade levels. I was also trying to work full time, keep those homeschooled students fed and bathed and, since we were home all the time, stay on top of the housework.
26
AUG 2020
In March and April the weather was dicey so going outside was often not an option. And there were no friends to play with. The kids were going crazy and fighting with each other and underneath all of it was a sense of profound loneliness and anxiety. We were looking for comfort and something to anchor us during these difficult times and animals seemed like the perfect solution. We weren’t the only ones with this idea. Everywhere I look there are folks with new puppies, a bandwagon we have not jumped on ourselves. But it’s more than that. My friends in Laramie got their daughter a goat to celebrate her accomplishment of being the top-
performing student in her class before schools shut down. They walk him on a leash with the dogs, which brings joy to everyone who sees them, and they are building a climbing fortress in the backyard. Another family I work with had been planning a move to some land outside of town but with the coronavirus it took on a new urgency. Their proud kids recently gave me a tour of the property and all the new animals they have; they put on cowboy hats and plastic-bag shoe covers for the tour. Being in charge of ducks and chickens and goats offered an opportunity for normalcy and teaching, outside of the online learning modules. These animals provide companionship and routine during a time when both were lacking. And I would say that these families fared better than most, due to those animals.
In Wyoming we could argue that we’ve had it lucky. Seasoned ranchers might not have noticed much difference in the daily grind. With wide-open spaces we are used to social distancing. Animals don't care about homeschool and when you have nowhere to go, calving season is less
Animals don't care about homeschool and when you have nowhere to go, calving season is less complicated.
complicated. No soccer
Agriculture is used to the impact of factors beyond its control on a global scale. Mother Nature does not adhere to a “time of uncertainty.” The changing of the seasons is not “unprecedented.” We know exactly when the crops need to be planted and when they
practice means the kids get their chores
need to be harvested, and the gestation
done with a little less negotiating and
of bred cattle and sheep and pigs does
without friends to play with they may
not change. The sun rises and sets each
suddenly have had a greater interest
day. Ranchers and farmers play the long
in the sheep and the pigs. I'm not
game. This crisis has been no exception.
saying every rancher is friends with all
With shutdowns around the country,
of his or her cattle but I bet they have
the supply chain has been disrupted
a nickname for at least one or two of
to be sure. Ask ranchers about getting
them (off the record). Life is a little
their animals scheduled for butchering
simpler. And the Wyoming way of life
and they will share the woes of meat
takes on a newfound interest.
processing facilities being closed due
CATCH What’s Happening, Right Now!
to COVID-19. With restaurants and schools closed, commercial consumption of food has decreased. And that has been heartbreaking for some farmers and commodities. But agriculture is adaptable. I trust the process. I trust that we will find a way through the global pandemic and things will go back to normal, albeit the “new normal” that everyone talks about. But for the wheat and the hay, for the cattle and sheep and the chickens, it is exactly how it's always been. And maybe there is some comfort in that. We can turn to our agricultural roots not only for food and sustainability but also for comfort and companionship; if not in the relationships with the animals, at the very least the consistency of the routines. In these uncertain times, that much is certain. W Originally from Laramie, Gina Sigel draws inspiration from five generations of agriculture to tell the stories of rural living.
LIVE STREAM wyomingpbs.org/live
ON-DEMAND Video/wyomingpbs.org PASSPORT
PBS APP
BROADCAST Over-The-Air
Satellite Cable AUG 2020
27
COUNTRY COOKS
PEANUTS SALTED NUT ROLL CANDY
PRYNCESS PJ’S PEANUTALMOND BRITTLE 1 CUP GRANULATED SUGAR 1/2 CUP + 2 TBS LIGHT CORN SYRUP 1 CUP ROASTED SALTED PEANUTS 1/4 CUP COARSELY CHOPPED ROASTED SALTED ALMONDS
1- 1/2 TSP BUTTER 1 TSP VANILLA EXTRACT 1/2 TSP ALMOND EXTRACT 1 TSP BAKING SODA 1 BUTTERED COOKIE SHEET
Heat over low heat until melted:
In a glass 2 quart casserole or mixing bowl, stir the corn syrup and granulated sugar together and microwave for 3-1/2 minutes. Stir in the peanuts and almonds and microwave for 3 more minutes until light brown. Add the butter and vanilla and almond extract to the mixture and stir until well combined. Microwave for an additional 1-1/2 minutes.
1 STICK MARGARINE 1 (12 OZ) PACKAGE PEANUT BUTTER CHIPS 1 CAN (14 OZ) SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK
You will need to work quickly for the next step, so be sure to have your buttered cookie sheet ready to go. Add the baking soda to the mixture and gently stir until light and foamy. Quickly pour the foamy mixture onto the greased cookie sheet, gently rotate the pan to spread the mixture around until it is about 1/2 inch thick. Work quickly, because it will began hardening very fast. Do NOT use a spoon to spread the mixture around.
2 CUPS MINIATURE MARSHMALLOWS 1 CUP SALTED PEANUTS
Let the brittle cool for at least 45 minutes, it is ready when it is hard and smooth to the touch. When cooled, break the candy into small pieces and store in an airtight container. This was my mother’s favorite recipe.
BETSY JENSEN
POWELL
OCTOBER:
BEANS 28
AUG 2020
Remove from heat and stir in:
More marshmallows and nuts may be used. Spread in a greased 9x13 pan and refrigerate. Cut into squares and enjoy!
P
MARILYN M. NORMAN
SUBMIT A RECIPE
CHEYENNE
EASY GLUTEN FREE PEANUT BUTTER COOKIES 1 CUP PEANUT BUTTER 1 CUP SUGAR 1 EGG Mix ingredients, roll into balls and bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Cookies will be slightly browned around the edges when they are done. The sugar can be reduced to 1/2 cup. Makes 1-3 dozen small cookies.
PAMELA FOSTER
SUNDANCE
Send complete recipe by September March 10! 10! Please include your name, address and phone number.
wren@wyomingrea.org | [307] 772-1968 214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001 wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions
PEN TO PAPER
The Old Cottonwood Tree LAMAR TAYLOR
BUFFALO
The old cottonwood tree,
Of the First People,
Gnarled and twisted,
warmed by the fire of its wood;
Its crooked branches
Of the soldiers who tethered their mounts
Grasping for the sky,
To its branches;
Grey and lifeless,
Of cattle that grazed at its feet;
Or so it seems,
Of the cowboys, long in the saddle,
‘Til spring breathes new life
Who leaned in against its strength
Into its old prairie soul,
For respite from their toils;
Crowning it with laurels of green.
Of eagles and robins,
What tales could it tell,
Hawks searching for prey,
What mysteries reveal
And owls that
Of long, long ago,
Called through the night;
Of the shaggy beasts that
Of squirrels that scampered
roamed its realm;
And chattered their warnings From on high. Would it regale its long ago splendor, Its spring beauty, Its triumphs over the summer heat, And the cold, cold breath of winter? Would it tell of its golden robe of fall That foretold of coming snows? What stories might it tell, Of long ago, When it was young?
We share a selection of WREN readers’ creative writing (poems, limericks, haiku, short verse, and prose) every issue as space and content allow. To be considered for publication, please include the author’s consent to be submitted, his or her mailing address, and confirmation that the work has not been published elsewhere. If you would like us to return your work, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
Put Your Pen to Paper!
Please include your name, address, and phone number. SUBMIT A PIECE
wren@wyomingrea.org | [307] 772-1968 214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001 wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions
AUG 2020
29
WHAT'S HAPPENING
WHAT'S HAPPENING REGIONAL MAP
02
03 04
01
AUG 20 – SEP 20
01 | SOUTHEAST
02 | NORTHEAST
C H U G WAT E R
GILLETTE
SEPTEMBER 4-5
AUGUST 20-21
Acoustic Jam Session: Labor Day Weekend event includes Wyoming Western Music Association. Bring a chair, the event may be outside. Stampede Saloon & Eatery, info 307-422-3200, stampedefun@aol.com.
Artist in Residence: Local resident and leatherworker Matt Avery will be at the Rockpile Museum all day to share the art of saddle making with visitors. 8a-5p, Rockpile Museum, free, info 307-682-5723 or rockpile@vcn.com.
ENCAMPMENT ONGOING
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, events may be postponed or canceled. Please call ahead before attending events.
Grand Encampment Museum: Main Gallery and GEM store open Tue-Sat 10a-4p, info 307-327-5308.
MEDICINE BOW FOURTH TUESDAYS
PHOTO BY BY GREG BEECHAM
Bingo: 7p, Community Hall, info 307-710-4045.
FEATURED EVENT
S A R AT O G A AUGUST 29
Trek: Dick Perue will lead a walk around the east part of the valley and give the history of Frazier Place, sawmill and Saratoga Lake. Meet at Saratoga Museum 8a. Info 307-326-5511, saratoga-museum. com. SEPTEMBER 5
COMMUNITY AVIATION DAY AND FLY-IN DUBOIS MUNICIPAL AIRPORT
AUG 22
6:30-7:30a Tethered hot air balloon rides. 7-9a Kiwanis Flying Flapjacks breakfast $5, $3 ages 8 and under. 7-10a Fly-in and personal, hobby and service aircraft on display. 8a-3p Educational and informational booths, concessions and children’s activities. INFO 307-455-2557 • CATHYGROVES@MSN.COM
NORTHWEST 30
AUG 2020
What is Joe Doing Now? Trivia Contest: Joe Pickett returns for seventh annual event. Call for details on which books to read. $400 cash pot for the winning table. Fun for all. info 307-3265511, saratoga-museum.com.
TORRINGTON SEPTEMBER 19
Cruise Night: Cruise 6-10p at 21st and East A, poker run 7-8:30p. Info 307-532-3879. SEPTEMBER 17
Third Thursday on Main Street: Live music, food, drinks, crafts and shopping downtown. 4-6p, Main Street, info 307-532-3879.
AUGUST 24
The Governor Lady: Actress Kay Sebring-Roberts Kuhlmann will portray the nation’s first elected woman governor Nellie Tayloe Ross. 7p, Rockpile Museum, free, info 307682-5723, rockpile@vcn.com. THROUGH DECEMBER
Campbell County Women in World War II: Nearly 350,000 American women served in uniform during the war. 9a-5p Mon-Sat, Campbell County Rockpile Museum, free, info 307-682-5723, abeenken@ccgov.net. TUESDAYS
Levis and Lace: Square dance club will give modern square dance lessons, 7:30p, Rockpile Community Center, free trial lessons, info 307-660-7207.
NEWCASTLE FRIDAYS
Bingo: 7:30p, VFW Hall, free. SECOND & FOURTH WEDNESDAYS
GiGi’s Closet: Providing free gentlyused clothing for the family. 9a-1p, First United Methodist Church, info 307-746-4119.
P I N E H AV E N SEPTEMBER 5
Pine Haven Days: Parade, picnic, fish fry and other events. 10a–9p, Pine Haven Rd, info 307-756-9807.
WHAT'S HAPPENING
S H E R I DA N SEPTEMBER 16 – OCTOBER 11
Koltiska’s Pumpkin Patch: Pick your own pumpkin. 3-6:30p Wed-Fri, 11a-6:30p Sat-Sun, 120 Cat Creek Rd, info Facebook, 307-737-2272.
UPTON AUGUST 22
Wyoming State Youth Hunter Education Challenge: 7:30a, Upton Outdoor Gun Range, $10, info 307-281-9980. AUGUST 28-29
Gun Show: 9a-5p, Upton Community Center, $5 ages 12 and over, info 307-281-9980. MONDAYS & THURSDAYS
Zumba: 4p, Senior Center, $5, info 307-391-0223. TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS
Indoor Archery: 12-8:30p, 2741 N. Hwy 116, $5, info 307-468-2506.
03 | NORTHWEST A R A PA H O E SEPTEMBER 4-6
Northern Arapaho Powwow: Wyoming’s oldest powwow. 6p Fri, 10a Sat-Sun. Left Hand Ditch Road near the Sharp Nose Road intersection. Tentative dates, please confirm in advance 307-332-8548.
DUBOIS AUGUST 22
Fall Kamikaze Golf Tournament: Antelope Hills Golf Course, 126 Clubhouse Drive. Info 307-455-2888, duboiswyomingchamber.org. SEPTEMBER 11–19
Susan Kathleen Black Artists Rendezvous & Workshops: Classes held inside and around scenic Dubois. 20 Stalnaker St, info 307-455-2687, headwaters@wyoming. com, skbworkshop.com/duboisworkshop-info. WEDNESDAYS
KOA Outdoor Western Concert: Packin’ the Mail will play under the campground pavilion. 7-9p,
AUG 20 – SEP 20
SHOSHONI
225 W. Welty St., free, info 307-455-2238, dubois@koa.com.
SEPTEMBER 5-6
Labor Day Rodeos: Ranch rodeo 5p Sat, Public Labor Day rodeo 6:30p Sun. Art Shanley Memorial Arena, 250 S. Maple Street, $8, info 307-262-6094, Facebook.
THIRD WEDNESDAYS
Wyoming Health Fairs Monthly Wellness Screen/Blood Draw: 7-10a, Dubois Medical Clinic, appointments encouraged, info 307-455-2516, whf.as.me/dubois.
S O U T H PA S S C I T Y WEEKENDS TO SEPTEMBER 6
LANDER SEPTEMBER 3
Tim McCoy: Talk will focus on silent movie star Tim McCoy's colorful life and clips of his movie “End of the Trail” will be shown. 7p, Pioneer Museum, free, info 307-332-3339. SEPTEMBER 12
Louis Lake Lodge Adventure Trek: Learn the history of the Loop Road, the water projects and the lodge and have lunch at the lodge. 10a, Pioneer Museum, $10 reservations required, info 307-332-3339. SATURDAYS
Farmers’ Market: Fresh produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, homemade crafts and live music. 9-11:30a, Lander City Park, info facebook.com/ landervalleyfarmersmarket.
R I V E RTO N AUGUST 29
How to Use a Map and a Compass: Kids learn the basics of navigation with a topographic map and a compass, then head out on a treasure hunt. 2p, Riverton Museum, $4 per participant, info 307-856-2665. SEPTEMBER 12
Uranium District Trek: Explore the area’s most important uranium areas during all day trek. Transportation will be provided. 8a, Riverton Museum, $50, space limited, info 307-856-2665. WEDNESDAYS
Farmers’ Market: Area producers offer a variety of seasonal vegetables, pickled and preserved foods, raw milk and cheese, eggs, kombucha, baked delicacies, handcrafted art items and more. 5-7p, City Park, info 307-851-4931.
SUBMIT AN EVENT
Send complete information for the October issue’s events by
SEPTEMBER 10! Please remember that events from the 20th of October to the 20th of November are included in the October issue. Be sure to include the date, title, description, time, cost, location, address and contact information for each event. Photos are always welcome.
Carissa Gold Mine Mill Tour: See the pits & shafts where miners labored. 125 South Pass Main St. $5, $3 WY residents, under 18 free. No kids under 8. Reservations only, 307-332-3684, info@southpasscity.com, southpasscity.com/tours.
04 | SOUTHWEST E VA N S T O N THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30
Suffrage Wyoming: Traveling Wyoming State Museum exhibit traces the history and impact of women’s suffrage in Wyoming. Uinta County Library, info 307-783-0484.
F O RT B R I D G E R CANCELED
Mountain Man Rendezvous: Fort Bridger State Historic Site. TUESDAYS
Bingo: 6p, American Legion Hall, info 307-780-5489. Look for more events at wyomingrea.org/news.
QUESTIONS & SUBMISSIONS:
wren@
wyomingrea.org
[307] 772-1968 214 W. Lincolnway
Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001
wyomingrea.org/
M O U N TA I N V I E W ONGOING
Community Classes: Fitness, computer, workforce and kids’ classes are available. Valley Learning Center, times and prices vary. Info valleylearningcenter. coursestorm.com or 307-782-6401.
ROCK SPRINGS AUGUST 21
Concert in the Park: Nowhere Fast will play, 7p, Bunning Park, free, info 307-352-1500.
wren-submissions
AUG 2020
31
01 02
01
Beauty versus beast, Kylee Schultz, Lyman
02
Mountain bluebird, Anson Meagher, Wright
03
Social distancing is hard, Barbara Toomer, Lyman
03
JUST PICTURE IT
THIS MONTH:
QUARANTINE 32
AUG 2020
OCT (DUE SEP 10):
NOV (DUE OCT 10):
WIND
PARADES
04 05 06
04
Lyle and Foxy being buddies, Paul Oedekoven, Gillette
05 06 07
Social distancing Wyoming style, Dick Fleming, Cheyenne
08
Our Hawaiian vacation during quarantine, Jim and Val Huegerich, Laramie
09
Quarantine entertainment, Paul Oedekoven, Gillette
Hopeful art by Tessa Bybee, Cheyenne Social distancing on the Sweetwater, Dawn Peil, Thermopolis
07 08 09
10 11 12
10 11 12 13 14 15
Mask-arading, Marilyn M. Norman, Cheyenne
13
Cooling their toes off, Paul Oedekoven, Gillette A quarantine morning walk, Janice Kennah, Fort Bridger High School Seniors’ Cruise Night at Riverton, Angie Erickson, Meeteetse Quarantined mount, Sandy Pokorney, Gillette Masks for the whole family, Marcia Walker, Powell
14 15
SUBMIT A P H OTO
wren@wyomingrea.org 214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001 wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions
Please submit high-quality digital files* or an original we can scan, as well as details about the artwork, the artist’s name, and the co-op. *Use the highest quality setting on your camera, or save digital artwork as a .jpg or .tif file with at least 300 dpi resolution. Don’t use Kodak Easy Share®.
Please include your name, hometown and a title.
If you would like your work returned, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
PUZZLE ON PAGE 25
POP(CORN) CULTURE QUIZ
Raiders of the Lost Ark
Forrest Gump
Avengers
Jaws
Grease
Ghostbusters
The Dark Knight
E.T.
Top Gun
Pirates of the Caribbean, The Curse of the Black Pearl
Jurassic Park
Independence Day
Since 1948, we’ve been committed to doing what we say we’ll do and finishing what we start. We accept responsibility for our actions. That’s the Farm Bureau difference.
HOME | FARM & RANCH | AUTO | BUSINESS Property-casualty insurance products offered through Mountain West Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company/Laramie, Wyoming.
www.mwfbi.com
AUG 2020
35
ENLIGHTEN US
Going the Social Distance with Dad BY CHUCK LARSEN
At the age of 91 my Dad continues to be an active and vibrant part of his community. He still lives in his own house, caring for his own needs. Although somewhat slower (much to my relief) he still drives himself wherever he needs to go. To say that he is “independent” would be putting it mildly … so to speak. He is surrounded by a multitude of friends and family who look in on him and ensure that he is included in the happenings of the community, which is a blessing for me since I live several hours and too many miles from him. Each evening I call him and we recap our day’s events. Listening to him summarize his day’s accomplishments and his planned agenda for the following day, you would be hard pressed to believe he is 91 years old. A considerable amount of those evening calls center around the people he visited with that day. Like what he heard at coffee with his buddies that morning, who had called him on the phone or a conversation he had across the fence with a neighbor. Dad is a very social person to say the least, so when the COVID-19 pandemic made its way into our lives I was concerned how he would handle it. After some consideration and planning of my own, I made the decision to go spend a few days with him. I figured we could spend time around his house, I could help him catch up on some of the projects he may need my help with and together we could practice our “social distancing.” Things went pretty good for a few days, but soon we were running out of projects to work on and our venture into the art of “social distancing” was starting to wear pretty thin. At that point I suggested that we go for a drive. We could stay in the vehicle and away from the public … 36
AUG 2020
and we could get out of the house! So, off we went with me behind the wheel and my fatherly co-pilot/navigator in the passenger seat beside me. Driving the backroads of the area I was raised in, I thought I knew and could remember all I needed to know about the homeland that I had left some 49 years ago. But as I drove, my co-pilot/navigator, now turned tour guide, began to recount a treasure trove of memories associated with his life in that community. As I listened I was reminded that except for a stint in the Army, Dad had spent his entire 91 years in the place he called home. As we traveled he’d point out certain features and then delve into his bank of memories and add the appropriate narrative. “Right here, there used to be a grove of trees and a little farm, it’s where my cousin Kenny was born.” Along a short stretch of worn black top he pointed to a grove of aged cottonwood trees, “Over there is where your great grandpa and grandma Larsen used to live … all that is left now is that old wooden granary and windmill.” He paused, carefully collecting his thoughts, “I had to walk by their farm every morning on my way to school. One morning Grandpa Larsen came out and met me and ended up scolding me for not having my coat buttoned up on such a cold morning. Shortly after getting to the schoolhouse my Dad came and got me, it was because Grandpa Larsen, after talking to me, had walked back and passed away in the middle of the farmyard … that was a sad day for me.”
A little farther down that same stretch of highway his gaze shifted to the northwest, “Over there, just above the east bank of the Vermillion River is where we lived until I was 14. All the buildings are gone now, there’s no sign that there was even a farm there anymore. I loved living by that river and with all the neighbor kids I fished and swam every chance I got … it was there that one of the older neighbor boys saved me from drowning.”
We soon found ourselves traveling down a new stretch of gravel, “I once rode my pony Lindy down this road and into town where they were having a big celebration for some reason. I remember they had an airplane there and for a fee you could have a ride in that plane. Oh how I’d wished I could take a ride but I didn’t have any money. I guess I got caught up in all the excitement of the day and it got pretty dark on my ride home. I was thinking that Mom and Dad would be worried and upset with me but they weren’t … things were different back then.” Soon we found ourselves traveling roads that were more familiar to me, roads that were the pathways of my own youth, and roads that led to the farm I was raised on. Dad sat silent as we approached the old home place and when he finally spoke there was a hint of sadness in this voice, “All that’s left of the original buildings is the old shop, they’ve torn the old house and barn down and moved in a newer house … it all looks different now, so many farmsteads have changed or are completely gone.” He paused, “We had a lot of good times there and it was a good place to raise you kids … yah so many memories.”
A half mile down the road we turned left which brought us to an old iron bridge that spanned the creek. He smiled, “I remember when you and the Christensen kids were diving off the bridge when there was high water and I warned you that there was a barbed wire fence But as I drove, my coacross the creek close to where pilot/navigator, now you were diving in and you said … ‘we know we found it!’”
turned tour guide, began to recount a treasure
We sat there in the middle of the bridge for a while and trove of memories shared many of the memories we had of that special place … associated with his life a place that was encompassed in that community. in what I thought at that time was my whole world. We were both silent when we drove on, both of us reminiscing days gone by. A little farther down that same road we passed another farmstead that was my grandparents’ place when I was growing
up, “I was 14 when the folks bought this farm and moved us away from the Vermillion River place. We had to drive our cattle all the way here and it took us quite a while.” Having worked in the rural electric association program for many years I questioned him on when Grandpa and Grandma had gotten electricity. He thought for a moment, “It was 1950 and it was when I was away in the Army. When they installed electrical wiring in the house, I remember hearing that my mom and dad had argued about how many electrical outlets to put in each room. Your grandpa thought they only needed one outlet per room but grandma thought they needed more.” Laughing he said, “I guess she won the argument more or less because, they ended up with a grand total of two in each room. Electricity sure changed our lives but, then again when you think about it, I have seen so many changes in my life.” We soon found ourselves pulling into the driveway back at Dad’s house in town. When I switched off the ignition we shared a brief moment of mutual quiet and then Dad broke that silence, “I sure appreciate you driving me around and I’m sorry if I bored you with all my stories, but that’s about all I have anymore, my memories and my stories.” I assured him that his memories and those of my own were a part of me that I hold close and that deep down they define who I am as a person. If the good Lord sees fit to allow me to reach the age of 91, I hope that I have the opportunity to drive down the back roads of my life and share with my children a special memory; an afternoon spent “social distancing” with Dad. W
Chuck Larsen managed Saratoga-based Carbon Power and Light for 23 years. He now lives in Hulett with his wife, Linda. AUG 2020
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AUG 2020
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2 Marley storage heaters, like new. $100. 307-223-6521.
Antique Collector Looking For Oil Company Gas Pumps, Globes And Signs. Will pay fair market value! Also looking for general antiques for our antique shop. Please go to our website FrontierAutoMuseum.com. Located in Gillette WY, our passion is to preserve Wyoming history and the nostalgia of the past, especially Parco, Sinclair, Frontier, Husky and any car dealership along with all brands. We are also always looking for WY license plates and WY highway signs and State Park signs. Please call Jeff Wandler 307-680-8647 wandlerfrontier@gmail.com or daughter Briana Brewer 307-660-2402 bbrewer@frontierauto.net.
Lynettesstockdogs.com, 3 males, 1 female pups for sale. Black/white, black/tan/white, best suited to be cow dogs. $200. Ten Sleep, WY. 307-272-5509. New & Used Coal Stokers, parts, service & advice. Available for most makes. Thanks. 307-754-3757. Pre-inoculated Alfalfa seeds for sale. Ranger, Vernema, Perry, Surpass, Wrangler and TV Blend. $3.25/lb. Call Richard at 307-856-5748 or 307-851-9830. Shaver Outdoor Wood Boiler Furnace. Aermotor Windmills and parts, cylinders, pipe, rod, submersible pumps, motors, control boxes, Hastings 12 ga. bottomless stock tanks and more. In business for more than 74 years. Herren Bros., Box 187, Harrison NE. 1-308-668-2582. Surplus Equipment New and Used: Generators, air heaters, engine driven pumps, (all sizes), solar pumps, 3" and 4" polypipe, etc. A variety of types and sizes available. Call for pricing and details: Premier PowerPlants & Pumps, Farson, WY 307-273- 9591. Wyoming Sheep Wagon Co. Custom Built Wagons and Restorations to Customer Specifications. Call 307.620.0996 for more details. www.wyomingsheepwagonco.com.
Do you have a roll of the old wire tie hay baler wire to sell? Call Nancy, evenings, at 307-758-4370. Want to purchase minerals & other oil/gas interests. Send details to: PO Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201. We Pay Cash For Mineral & Oil/Gas Interests producing & non-producing. 800-733-8122.
20 | FREE Soon Church/Government uniting, suppressing “Religious Liberty” enforcing “National Sunday Law.” Be Informed! Needing Mailing address. TSBM, PO Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540, thebiblesaystruth@yahoo.com, 1-888-211-1715.
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ENCOURAGE THEIR
curiosity
Nature is good for the mind. In kids, it builds confidence, promotes creativity and imagination, and stimulates their senses. A fun way to engage kids in their outside world is to start a collection! It can be rocks, shells, flowers that you might press, or anything your kids find interesting. Having a collection can give your kids motivation to search and therefore spend more time outside! And if they get really interested in what they’re collecting, you can read books together about rocks or shells or flowers, and look up interesting facts about the things they find. Help your kids get started with their own egg carton collection box.
1
2
Supplies:
Directions:
Egg Carton
Have your kids decorate their egg cartons any way they choose.
Markers or Paint Optional Stickers Glue
Help your kids write their names on the outside of their egg carton. Go outside, find fun things to collect, and store them in the egg carton’s different compartments!
Decorations
For more nature-themed activities to do with your kids, visit wyqualitycounts.org/wren
This month’s activity
WY Quality Counts, housed in the Department of Workforce Services, helps Wyoming parents and child care providers identify and create quality learning experiences for children, thanks to the funding of the Wyoming Legislature.
Nature Badges & Bracelets!
All WY Quality Counts activities are supported by the Wyoming Early Learning Foundations and Guidelines, as well as the Domains of Development, which include: COMMUNICATION
SENSE OF SELF & RELATIONSHIPS
CURIOUS MINDS
STRONG & HEALTHY BODIES