Issuu

MAR 2020

WYOMING

RURAL ELECTRIC NEWS

Small Business Big Impact Wyoming entreprenuers bring life to communities and the state.

 JILL WINGER

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MARCH M

2020

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 2, March 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 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

16 CENTERPIECE

Small Business Big Impact STORY BY GAYLE M. IRWIN PHOTO BY DAN CEPEDA

On the cover: Adam Pauli's business, Symmetry Trailers, offers utility trailers for the “overlanding” niche.

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

FROM OUR READERS

ON THE COVER

FEATURES YOUTH 08 CO-OP B V E A' S

HARPER HEWITT

22 OL D - FA S H ION E D

CO-OP SPOTLIGHT A N D ON L IN E BY GAYLE M. IRWIN

STATE NEWS & EVENTS 06 GRASSROOTS NETWORK 10 COWBOY STATE BUZZ 32 WHAT'S HAPPENING

ESSAYS & ANECDOTES 04 IT’S GOOD

WREA NOTES TO BE BACK

BY SHAWN TAYLOR

28 S H E C A N ' T C O M E I N HOME ON THE RANGE BY MEGAN BEAVERS

36 W I N D

ENLIGHTEN US BY WALT GASSON

PRINTED WITH VEGETABLE INK

COOKS 30 COUNTRY BEEF TO PAPER 31 PEN T H E CYCLE S E A S O NS O N M Y FARM

PICTURE IT 34 JUST E X P E RI ME NT I NG

JUST FOR FUN CORNER 20 KIDS' W H AT D O V E T E RI NARI ANS D O ?

REVIEW 26 BOOK A H I S T O RY O F T H E W YO MI NG STAT E C A P I TO L BY STARLEY TALBOTT & LINDA GRAVES FABIAN

27 BPUZZLE A D W I T H NAME S BY KENDRA SPANJER

WREA NOTES

PHOTO BY KELLY ETZEL DOUGLAS

It’s Good to be Back “Chewie, we’re home.” This quote should require no explanation, but for those not in the know, it’s the line in “The Force Awakens” when Han Solo and Chewbacca once again board their legendary ship the Millennium Falcon. Unfortunately I’m writing this only two weeks into the 2020 budget session of the Wyoming Legislature, and it would be premature to give you a breakdown of everything the legislature has and hasn’t done as it pertains to the energy/utility business generally, and the rural electric cooperatives specifically. That will come next month. My Star Wars quote came to mind when the legislature convened for this session under the dome of the newly remodeled Capitol or their own legendary ship. I know that, for the legislators and those of us who have lobbied for years, it felt like coming home. For those of you who visited the temporary state capitol over the past four years (affectionately referred to as the big box, Kmart, or officially, the Jonah Building) you would have seen what was the best attempt to make due under the circumstances of moving a 90-person legislature and splitting them into the appropriate House and Senate chambers, and moving all the appropriate staff and meeting rooms and technical and personal support needed. And I say that with all sincerity. It was a monumental task, dwarfed only by the actual renovation of the Capitol and the Capitol Square Project. But while at these temporary digs there was, on the one hand, a feeling of more access (for better or worse) because everyone was cramped into a comparatively small space. And on the other hand, a sense of a loss of decorum by, I think, everyone involved, for the same reasons. The renovations haven’t come without challenges. But if you’ve ever built a new house (or finished a basement, as my family recently has) you’ll know that you don’t get everything right on the first try. You keep tweaking things until everyone is happy – or at least satisfied with the end result. 4

MAR 2020

Wyoming Rural Electric Association (WREA) directors and associates are recognized by the Senate on Feb 26. They stopped by the Capitol during the WREA annual meeting. Look for meeting coverage in the April issue of WREN magazine.

SHAWN TAY LOR

EX EC UTI V E DI R E CT O R

I know many folks around the state questioned the need for the Capitol renovations and the associated price tag, as did I. But having worked in old Capitol, the “Jonah,” and now the new Capitol, I for one am convinced that it was money well spent, and would encourage everyone to take a look and learn about all of the improvements to “the People’s House.” Governor Gordon said it well at the ribbon cutting ceremony when he said, “You walked into this building with a sense of pride, a sense of obligation and a sense of duty to the people of Wyoming that cannot be expressed. It is so good, so good, to be back.” Or, as I earlier stated, “Chewie, we’re home.”

WE NEVER FORGET WHERE WE CAME FROM Join Touchstone Energy Cooperatives in celebrating the power of human connections.

New Report

GRASSROOTS NETWORK

Co-op Political Co-op Actions Members are A Partner & Politically Trusted Source Active Co-op Political Co-op POLL RESULTS Actions Political Engagement Behaviors are Members 75% Consumer-members across the country are increasingly satisfied with the performance Co-op Political Politically Active Co-op of their electric cooperatives and more than ever before see them as trusted information Actions sources and partners in keeping energy costs low. — Members are96%Behaviors Political Engagement 75% These are among the key findings of a recent national +5 92%survey Politically Active commissioned by NRECA and conducted by Frederick Polls. Consumer-members are generally comfortable with their co-op encouraging them to engage politically.

New Report

FROM THE NRECA

Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives are part of a much larger network of cooperatives that strive to provide the safest, most reliable electricity possible to their members. The cooperative difference is that you, the members, own your electricity provider, and your needs drive the cooperative.

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) recently commissioned a national telephone survey to find whether cooperative members are satisfied, and engaged, with their cooperative. During the next few months, WREN magazine will publish more results of the survey. This month, we’ll look at survey results regarding electric co-op members’ political engagement.

New Report Co-op consumer-members show strong involvement in the political process,

Consumer-members are generally comfortable with their co-op encouraging them to engage politically.

including significant jumps among those who contact government officials and contribute to campaigns.

Change from 2018

Will vote in 2020 presidential election

Encourage all co-op Consumer-members are members to vote in generally comfortable with elections. their co-op encouraging them Voted in 2016 Co-op consumer-members show strong involvement in the political process, to engage politically. including significant jumps among those who contact government officials presidential election and contribute to campaigns.

Change from 2018

Vote in every election

69% Will vote in 2020show Questions about political engagement a majority of+3 members all co-op presidential Behaviors Political Engagement 96% — 69% Encourage election members to vote in Co-op consumer-members show strong involvement in the political process, Contacted elected feel their co-op should: elections. official to voice jumps among those who contact government officials 75% including significant +15 Voted in 2016 55% opinion and contribute to campaigns. presidential +5 Change 92% election Contributed 1) encourage people to vote from 2018 money to political +14 Send email action alerts 41% Vote in every Will vote in 2020 candidate election about breaking legislaEncourage all co-op presidential +3 96% 69% — tive or regulatory election members to votenews in 2) send updates Posted about government actions impacting co-ops social impacting co-ops. media political elections. 69% +1 elected Voted in 2016 view Contacted 31% official to voice presidential +15 55% +5 opinion 3) ask members to contact elected officials on92% co-op issues election Attended co-op meeting +6 26% Contributed Vote in every money to political election +14 Send email action alerts 41% +3 69% candidate Nearly all (96 percent) indicated they will vote in the about breaking legislaContacted elected 2020 elections. official to voice opinion

Posted social media political view

55% 31%

+15

co-opconducted annually for the Contributed The telephone survey, which Attended has been meeting money to political 26% +14 41% candidate past six years, polled 750 co-op consumer-members in mid-July. Posted social It has a margin of error of 3.6 percent. media political +1 31% view

Attended co-op meeting

26%

59% 69%

tive or regulatory news impacting co-ops.

Ask members Send email action to alerts contact elected about breaking legislarepresentatives tive or regulatory news about a co-op issue. impacting co-ops.

84%

believe co-ops do a good job 59%

communicating with them and keeping them informed about co-op actions.

84% 84%

59%

Ask members to contact elected representatives about a co-op issue.

believe co-ops do a good job communicating with them and keeping them informed about co-op actions.

Source: Survey of 750 electric co-op members, July 2019, margin of error +|-3.6% by Frederick Polls

believe co-ops do a good job communicating with them and keeping them informed about co-op actions.

Source: Survey of 750 electric co-op members, July 2019, margin of error +|-3.6% by Frederick Polls

MAR 2020

New Report

CO-OP MEMBERS ARE POLITICALLY ACTIVE POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT BEHAVIORS

Co-op consumer-members show strong involvement in the political process, including significant jumps among those who contact government officials and contribute to campaigns.

Change from 2018 Will vote in 2020 presidential election

96%

Vote in every election

69%

Contacted elected ofﬁcial to voice opinion

Contributed money to political candidate

55% 41%

— +3 +15 +14

Posted social media political view

31%

Attended co-op meeting

26%

84%

believe co-ops do a good job communicating with them and keeping them informed about co-op actions.

Source: Survey of 750 electric co-op members, July 2019, margin of error +|-3.6% by Frederick Polls

MAR 2020

PHOTO BY GINGER HEWITT

CO-OP YOUTH

WREN: Tell us about your studies and interests. HH: I am currently completing my senior year at Lyman High School. I have enjoyed living and attending school in Lyman where I’ve had so many amazing opportunities and have made amazing friendships. I love being involved in my school and community through student council, Rachel’s Challenge, church callings, 4-H and FFA. I have a passion for swimming and have been competitively swimming for the last seven years. Some of my other interests and hobbies include: anything outdoors (fishing, hiking, boating, etc.), traveling, playing sports, raising and showing livestock and playing the ukulele! I also enjoy working as a lifeguard and swim teacher at my local pool because I love helping and educating people.

CO-OP YOUTH Wyoming’s rural electric cooperatives are proud to support our youth, giving college scholarships and lineman scholarships. In addition, our co-ops

WREN: How have your hometown, family and/or friends influenced you?

sponsor high school students on the D.C. Youth Tour in June and Youth Leadership Camp in July.

THIS MONTH: Harper Hewitt is the daughter of Bridger Valley Electric Association Operations Manager Andy Hewitt. She is the Youth Leadership Camp director representing BVEA, and will be the Wyoming youth director at the D.C. Youth Tour.

HARPER HEWITT HOMETOWN: Lyman HIGH SCHOOL: Lyman High School YEAR OF GRADUATION: 2020

Interested in applying for a scholarship, D.C. Youth Tour and/ or Leadership Camp? Contact your local rural electric cooperative! See the insert in the center of the magazine for contact information.

MAR 2020

COLLEGE: Undecided MAJOR STUDY INTEREST: Dental Hygiene

HH: My hometown, family and friends have shaped who I am today. Growing up in a small town has helped me develop a sense of community with values. Living in Lyman has taught me that no one stands or fights their battles alone. We come together as a community to support and help each other in everything. My friends have taught me to laugh through the hard times and enjoy every second of life. My family has taught me what it means to be honest, respectful, loyal and kind. They’ve taught me to jump in and lend a helping hand without being asked. I learned my work ethic from the example of my parents. They’ve taught me that nothing gets handed to you – you must work for it. There is no doubt that the example of my parents is why I have been so successful thus far. Without the influence of my hometown, friends and family I would not be the person I am today. WREN: What are your plans for the future? HH: After I graduate from high school, I plan to attend college to get a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene. I want to be a dental hygienist because I love helping people and improving their lives. After I gain my degree I plan to move to a rural community, hopefully in Wyoming, and start working immediately. I also plan to do a lot of traveling!

COWBOY STATE BUZZ

DRIVER'S LICENSE REQUIREMENTS



Wyoming has been issuing REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses since 2011, which currently feature a gold star in the top right corner. The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) has recently started issuing a new driver’s license, and those will also feature a star in the top right corner. However, it will be a black circle with the star shape in the middle.



FROM THE WYOMING DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Not sure if you have a valid federally compliant Wyoming driver’s license? Just check the top right corner.

“Residents who are wondering if they have REAL ID compliant licenses just need to check the top right corner and to see if they have that star,” said Misty Dobson, WYDOT Driver Services program manager. “We’ve been issuing the REAL ID compliant licenses for a while now so most everyone should have them.” Starting Oct. 1, 2020, all U.S. citizens will need a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or identification card, a passport or other documents approved by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to board commercial airplanes. Those who have state identification cards, as opposed to state driver’s licenses, will need to double check to make sure they are REAL ID complaint. Prior to 2010, identification cards didn’t have an expiration date. Now identification cards expire every eight years, similar to driver’s licenses.

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MAR 2020

MKT-P0059

Tough training. Safe & reliable power. Linemen play a critical role in our mission to provide reliable, affordable electricity. Tough training and a focus on safety is behind everything they do. Simulated field operations and emergency-response training are ways Basin Electric invests in their safety and in providing reliable power to you.

Your energy starts here. basinelectric.com

COWBOY STATE BUZZ

96% PARK

92%

94%

SHERIDAN

92%

91%

BIG HORN

90% 100%

TETON

CROOK JOHNSON

CAMPBELL

WASHAKIE

HOT SPRINGS

IMPRO VES FOR SIXTH YEAR

WESTON

91%

FROM THE WYOMING DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

91%

CONVERSE

NIOBRARA

FREMONT

SUBLETTE

NATRONA

97%

LINCOLN

WYOMING HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION RATE

97%

95% GOSHEN

100%

ALBANY

94%

SWEETWATER

PLATTE

CARBON LARAMIE

UINTA

97%

92% Rural electric cooperatives are noted by color.

High school graduation rates increased to 82.1% in 2018-19, marking the sixth consecutive year of improvement from the class of 2013, where 77.6% of students graduated. Since the 2009-10 school year, the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) has calculated graduation rates using the Federal Four-Year Adjusted Cohort Methodology. Students are counted in the four-year, “on-time,” high school graduation rate if they earn a diploma by September 15 following their cohort’s fourth year.

SCHOOL DISTRICTS WITH GRADUATION RATES ABOVE 90% 100% – Lincoln #1 – Kemmerer 100% – Washakie #2 – Ten Sleep 97% – Laramie #2 – Pine Bluffs 97% – Sheridan #1 – Ranchester 97% – Sublette #9 – Big Piney 96% – Big Horn #2 – Lovell

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MAR 2020

95% – Platte #2 – Guernsey 94% – Teton #1 – Jackson 94% – Sweetwater #2 – Green River 92% – Uinta #6 – Evanston 92% – Crook #1 – Sundance 92% – Park #6 – Powell 91% – Fremont #24 – Shoshoni 91% – Johnson #1 – Buffalo 91% – Sublette #1 – Pinedale 90% – Big Horn #3 – Greybull

For more information visit edu.wyoming.gov/data/graduation-rates.

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 Program is in danger of running out of funding.

SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

WHAT IT IS The WREA Lineman Scholarship offers scholarships year-round 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.

CANDIDATES

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

30K 2017

45K

35K

2018

2019

FUNDING

APPRECIATION We appreciate your support!

To be considered, applicants must submit

For over a decade, the

the application form, a resumé describing

scholarship’s main source

their education and work experience, three

of funding has come

letters of recommendation and a transcript

from a fundraising golf

of grades. (If the candidate has not attended

tournament during the

During the last few months, WREA members and friends have contributed to the scholarship fund. A heartfelt “thank you” to

an educational institution in the three years

Cody Hotline School.

prior to submitting the application,

Vendors, cooperatives and

everyone who has reached out!

others who do business

the transcript is not necessary.)

with cooperatives have been Candidates must submit their scholarship

solicited for donations to

application to the Wyoming Rural Electric

the fund. It has been very

Association; they are then passed on to

successful, raising as much

the WREA board for consideration.

as $20,000 in some years.

DONATIONS CAN BE MADE BY:

Calling the 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 MAR 2020

COWBOY STATE BUZZ

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

BANK OR CREDIT CARD INFORMATION

number for the regional office for verification. Wyoming residents can

AN E XPIR ATION DATE

MONE Y

also call 211 for census information.

ANY THING REL ATED TO POLITICAL PARTIES

CENSUS TIMELINE 2010

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JULY 31

The last census took place 10 years ago.

You will receive an invitation to participate in the 2020 census. Some households will receive a postcard, others will receive a questionnaire.

If you haven’t responded yet, you will receive a reminder letter and paper questionnaire.

Census workers begin visiting homes that haven’t responded to make sure everyone is counted.

Census closed.



MAKE SURE YOU COUNT!

MAR 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. 14

2030

Sources: Wyoming Department of Administration & Information Economic Analysis Division, Wyoming State Library.

As a cooperative we are changing together. We are committed to delivering responsibly generated electricity while working to ensure your power remains reliable and affordable. Because whatever the future holds, we’ll power it.

To learn more about our Responsible Energy Plan, visit www.tristate.coop

CENTERPIECE

Small Business Big Impact

BUTCHER

BY GAYLE M. IRWIN

TACOS

hen Sue McBride moved to Douglas more than 20 years ago, she didn’t foresee owning a bookstore, even though she had dreamed of the idea for many years.

BUTCHER

TACOS

“When I was in my early 20s and lived in California, there was Tower of Books and Tower of Records. I thought if I owned such a place, I could have books and music all around me, and if I tired of the rat race, I could have a bookstore.” An opportunity arose to purchase the bookstore component of RD Pharmacy; she and a friend went into business together. They changed the name to WhistleStop Mercantile. “The railroad has been important to Douglas,” McBride said. A year later, her friend decided to leave the business and Sue relocated the store from Center Street to its current location on Third Street.

PHOTO BY GAYLE M. IRWIN

Wyoming entrepreneurs have access to many resources to help their businesses. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network is one of those. Funded by the Wyoming Business Council and the U.S. Small Business Administration, the SBDC provides resources such as helping apply for grants and marketing resources. “We help a wide variety of businesses,” said Jake Dixon, marketing manager. “We are the business partner you don’t have to pay.”

I love working with local authors. They’re entrepreneurs, too.

In a time when independent bookstores and big box stores like Borders go out of business, McBride and her staff maintain their presence. Wyoming still has several independent bookstores, such as Wind City in Casper, Second Story in Laramie, and Storyteller in Thermopolis. McBride acknowledged there are many challenges to owning a bookstore in a small town, such as online purchasing and the number of people walking through the door. However, she was also quick to say, “We have loyal customers who come in – they like to hold a book in their hands.” Another advantage is getting to know Wyoming’s authors. “I love working with local authors, she said. “They’re entrepreneurs, too. I enjoy hearing why authors write

The organization provides both online and in-person training, and offers expertise in various areas to meet the entrepreneur’s needs.

what they write, and they tell their stories, to us and to our customers. I also enjoy hearing our customers talk about the books they’re reading.” Small businesses in Wyoming like McBride’s are important to Wyoming’s economy. Not only do they provide services for thousands of customers across the state, but they also employ people. According to Wyoming’s Small Business Development Center, small businesses comprise 63% of employment in the state and 55% of Wyoming’s payroll. McBride employs a full-time manager plus three parttime staff. That often includes one or two high school students. “We can be an opportunity for kids to learn about the working world. They’ve gotten good experience,” she said.

Sue McBride owns the Whistle-Stop Mercantile in Douglas.

“Side-hustles in Wyoming are common; writers, artisans,” Dixon said. “There are many opportunities online for businesses, like blogs and YouTube. It’s doable.” In Wyoming, “small business is big business,” he said.

WYOMING’S SBDC ASSISTS ENTREPRENEURS

There are more than 60,000 small businesses across the state, employing nearly 131,500 people. “Small business has the lion’s share [of the economy], including half the payroll,” Dixon said. “It not just retail and restaurants – it’s every industry.” For more information visit wyomingsbdc.org.

MAR 2020

HELP FOR BUSINESS STARTUPS For the past four years, entrepreneurs have had opportunity to showcase their products and passion at the Casper StartUp Challenge. This competition is hosted by the Wyoming Technology Business Center (WTBC). “The Casper Start-Up Challenge is aimed at those who are interested in starting a business,” said Eric Schlidt, director of WTBC. “The WTBC provides monetary incentive and business support for the contestants and allows them to act upon their ideas and take them to the next level.” Finalists work with WTBC staff to develop their ideas, gaining knowledge and developing connections as they work their way through the different phases of the competition, he said.

He now has four base models. He showed his creations as part of his presentation for the Casper Start-Up competition. He intends to showcase the trailers at local and national events, including the Overland Expo in Arizona. Helping entrepreneurs achieve their dreams is part of WTBC’s mission, Schlidt said. “The WTBC is an innovation-driven business incubator, which advises and supports high-growth startups in the early stages of business development,” he said. “The WTBC encourages small business in conjunction with other resources through the state. We strive to help the entrepreneurial spirit in any way possible and help our clients pursue their passion.”

“This allows each of the finalists to be more adequately prepared to launch their business,” he said. “Each winner receives $5,000 and has the opportunity to apply for a $50,000 seed fund to help grow their startups.”

I thought, ‘I can build something like that for less money.’

Last year’s first-place winner was Adam Pauli. His business, Symmetry Trailers, offers utility trailers for the “overlanding” niche. “They’re compact camping units,” he said. “Other companies charge up to $40,000, with base models starting at $12,000. Our company’s units average $7,000 to $8,000, and $10,000 to $12,000 for the really decked out models.”

“I looked at what the market had already,” he said. “I thought, ‘I can build something like that for less money.’ Once it was done, I threw it up online, and in about three weeks, I sold it. I took the revenue from that and made more. I caught the entrepreneurial bug.” 18

MAR 2020

Adam Pauli's business, Symmetry Trailers, offers utility trailers for the “overlanding” niche.

PHOTO BY DAN CEPEDA

Pauli teaches welding at Converse County Schools in Douglas, and a few years ago, he decided to create a trailer and see if it sold.

That passion is also part of small business owners’ contribution to the state, he said. “Entrepreneurs help the economy by giving individuals the ability to bring their passion to the workplace and give directly to the community,” Schlidt said. “We love to see how we can help the state grow and continue to help our citizens achieve their dreams of owning their own business and assist the great state of Wyoming. We are extremely excited about the opportunity to help people pursue their passions and dreams.” Other startup competitions take place around the state, including the Wind River Startup Challenge, Southeast Wyoming Innovation Launchpad, and the Sheridan Start-Up Challenge. These are hosted by other WTBCs in the state.

HELPING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS

Ranching is a hard business. The foundation for all of our food is the producer.

Small businesses often help other entrepreneurs. That’s the case for Chad McNutt. He knows agriculture, and he also knows weather after working with the research arm of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). He understands how weather impacts agriculture, and he decided to start his own company to help livestock and other agricultural producers.

The mission of Chad McNutt's business is to provide timely and accurate weather information for livestock producers.

PHOTO BY DAN CEPEDA

The mission of his business is to provide timely and accurate weather information for livestock producers, focusing on impacts to animal health and well-being. His website, livestockwx.com, and a newsletter to which producers can subscribe, provide information including drought outlook, winter storm forecasts and cattle temperature stress. “We’re starting with beef producers – they’re the biggest [agricultural] producers across the U.S.,” he said. McNutt participated in the Wyoming Business Council’s Kickstart:Wyoming program in December 2018; he received funding in January 2019, which “allowed me to develop more content and contract freelancers to write it,” he said. “Receiving that money made all the difference for me,” he added. His desire to help agricultural producers is evident. “Ranching is a hard business,” he said. “The foundation for all of our food is the producer.”

SMALL BUSINESS CLIMATE IN WYOMING During the past five years, the Tax Foundation has ranked Wyoming No. 1 for business climate due to its lack of corporate taxes and state income tax. From creative artists, like writers and painters, to family farms and ranches; from brick and mortar stores to online enterprises, Wyoming’s small business owners bring life to communities and the state. Owning a business is not an easy task, but the benefits are many, according to McBride, who not only sells books but also provides sandwiches and coffee drinks at her store, creating a warm environment for gatherings. “I have the opportunity to be creative. If I have an idea, I can try it out and not go through a chain of command,” she said. “Also, I like people to feel welcome, like they are in my home. I love all of this. It’s my passion and I get to live it.” W

Gayle M. Irwin is a freelance writer based in Casper. MAR 2020

KIDS CORNER

Veterinarians in Wyoming What do Veterinarians do?

Veterinarians treat sick or hurt animals. They also help owners keep their animals healthy. Some veterinarians work as livestock inspectors to make sure cattle, sheep or pigs are healthy on the farm or ranch.

Wyoming Workforce Services counted 200 veterinarians in Wyoming in March 2019 and reported their average wage at $38 per hour.

How to Become a Veterinarian

Veterinarians are doctors of veterinary medicine – they attend at least eight years of college after they graduate from high school! If you’d like to become a veterinarian, you’ll need to do this: Earn a four-year degree from an accredited university that meets the requirements to enter veterinary school. Gain veterinary experience by working or volunteering for veterinarians.

Are you interested in becoming a veterinarian? You've come to the right place!

04 GROW

I WHEN

o be a

Earn a doctoral degree from an accredited college of veterinary medicine. Obtain a state license to practice.

I wan

nari i r e t e V

Tools of the Trade What does a veterinarian need to work every day?

Circle the correct items. 05

Veterinarian Quiz Dr. Megan Beavers has a cat named Calypso that she wrote about in the September issue of WREN. Where did it get its name? A. It had the name on its collar

In the November issue of WREN, Dr. Bruce Connally wrote about a fearless dog that tried to play in the middle of the horse corral. What breed of dog is it?

B. She found it on a boat

A. Doberman pinscher

C. It’s a calico with a broken hip

B. French bulldog

D. She likes Greek mythology

C. Jack Russell terrier D. Border collie

Sources: Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, University of Wyoming, Wyoming Board of Veterinary Medicine

MAR 2020

Answers: C, B

You can read this month’s Home on the Range story by Dr. Megan Beavers on page 28.

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CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

JILL WINGER 

OldFashioned and Online BY GAYLE M. IRWIN

Jill Winger cooks and blogs from her home near Chugwater.

MAR 2020

After purchasing land near Chugwater in 2008, the Wheatland Rural Electric Association members wondered how they could use the property other than as pasture for animals.

PHOTO BY LINDSAY LINTON BUK/LINTON PRODUCTIONS

Entrepreneurs Find Niche with Homestead

n an ever-increasing noisy online world, Jill Winger and her husband, Christian, have etched their mark, making a living via various platforms that tell the story of their homesteading lifestyle and inspiring others.

“We began thinking how we could make this land profitable, not necessarily an income, but how it could pay for itself,” Winger said. “So I thought, ‘What if we grew food?’ which felt foreign because I didn’t know anyone doing that. Homesteading wasn’t trendy then. I didn’t know what homesteading was or have grand aspirations this is what we’d be doing. This property … started it.”

SELF-SUSTAINING From raising chickens, beef and vegetables for food, cows and goats for dairy products, and finding a Christian and Jill Winger with their children Bridger, Sage and Mesa.

strong online audience, Winger and her family have generated a self-sustaining life. Neither she nor her husband work outside the home. Their entrepreneurial life began when Jill started blogging in 2010. MAR 2020

which they create, along with some business coaching. They also sell essential oils and last year, Jill published a cookbook, which has been well received.

“That’s when I was pretty much hooked into the (homestead) lifestyle,” she said. “I started the blog as a journal. I was a new stay-at-home mom and I felt isolated … so that was my connection to the world. It’s grown into its own entity. I share all about our lifestyle and how we do what we do and the philosophies behind it and the struggles behind it.” She estimates 400,000 to 500,000 people visit the blog every month. Additionally, she has about 500,000 Facebook followers and another 200,000 Pinterest followers. She also uses Instagram, and in August 2019 she launched the podcast, “Old-Fashioned on Purpose,” plus her husband started a YouTube channel. These various platforms help them transmit their message to the world – and make an income.

“I love food, but I don’t consider myself a gourmet foodie,” she said. “Over the years of living in Chugwater, far from grocery stores, fast food and delivery options, I’ve become creative cooking from scratch with simple ingredients. So, I’ve learned how to cook just simple comfort food … without the boxes, canned soups and frozen components, and growing a lot of it ourselves. When I started to conceptualize a cookbook I thought, ‘This is what I like to cook and this is what I cook.’ I had a hunch other people were looking for those same things, and it proved to be accurate because people have responded well to it.” The book, “A Prairie Homestead Cookbook,” is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other online retailers.

The Wingers receive online income from banner ads, video courses and e-books 24

MAR 2020

PHOTOS BY JILL WINGER

“The homesteading movement has grown considerably, and I think it’s picking up traction even more,” Winger said. “As society gets more advanced and there’s more technology, people are a little more uncertain and see things as unstable. They are feeling that pull toward simplicity.”

PHOTO BY LINDSAY LINTON BUK/LINTON PRODUCTIONS

Jill Winger photographs her surroundings for her blog, theprairiehomestead.com.

THE FAMILY’S FUTURE PHOTO BY JILL WINGER

MAKING A LIVING ONLINE lthough many people want to do so, making a living online isn’t easy, Winger acknowledged. “There’s usually not a magic bullet. There’s definitely a learning curve, and there continues to be a learning curve because [the platforms] change all the time,” she said. “A good example is YouTube. We have about 40,000 subscribers, but that’s a low number compared to the YouTube influencers. We’re still babies on that platform. You just have to grind it out, figure it out, for your people. For us, it’s continually producing content on a platform, whatever it may be, and not quitting when it gets hard. And then just trying to get better every time. “The internet is more popular than ever and more noisy than ever,” she continued. “There’s a lot of folks speaking generically or just throwing something against the

wall and hoping it will stick. I’ve gained the most momentum when I was very strategic and thinking, ‘Who is this person and what’s their name, where do they live, how can I help them, and what are their biggest pain points?’ Being that honed in is crucial.” For others seeking to become online entrepreneurs, she offered this advice: “Get really, really clear on who you want to help and what that person’s needs are. The biggest piece is ‘Don’t quit!’ It’s just a matter of putting one foot in front of the other, doing the same thing and being consistent, and getting a little bit better every time. I think that’s the piece where people get bogged down – they want to see results quickly. It doesn’t happen for most people; it didn’t happen that way for us. Put your head down and keep on going.”

The Wingers have short-term and long-term goals for their business. In the next few months, they plan to continue looking for ways to better serve their audiences and offer business coaching for other online entrepreneurs. Long-term goals include reaching more people with the idea of simplicity and making a national impact. “I really want to get this idea of ‘OldFashioned on Purpose,’ intentionally adding bits of the simple life into our modern routines, to more people as a nationally known idea,” Winger said. “I’m just riding the flow and seeing what opportunities present themselves and trying to be as strategic as possible.” Learn more about the Wingers and the content they offer at their website: theprairiehomestead.com. W Gayle M. Irwin is a freelance writer based in Casper. MAR 2020

BOOK REVIEW

A History of the

Wyoming Capitol BY STARLEY TALBOTT & LINDA GRAVES FABIAN The Wyoming State Capitol is more than 130 years old, and finally a comprehensive history of the state’s most important building has been written. Starley Talbott and Linda Graves Fabian, in their book “A History of the Wyoming Capitol,” have provided a fascinating, entertaining and well-researched history of the Capitol. The book could not be better timed as the Capitol has just been restored to its original history. Twenty-five-year-old John Feick of Sandusky, Ohio was dispatched to Wyoming Territory in 1887 to supervise the construction of the new capitol building in Cheyenne. Of special importance are the letters that the young John Feick sent to his wife in Ohio providing insight into the difficulties addressed during the construction, and his difficulty adjusting to Cheyenne’s weather and culture. Eventually Feick gained respect for Wyoming which is illustrated when he wrote, “People are more liberal and a nicer class of people than you find in the east.”

WIN A

Description by Rick Ewig

ORDERING INFORMATION:

FREE

COPY

Name:

DECEMBER'S BOOK WINNER:

Phone: 2019 | 144p. $21.99 paperback, $29.99 hardcover



CAROL HARRISON

Address:

ISBN: 9781467141611

OF GILLETTE

Publisher: History Press Available at booksellers across the state

ENTRIES DUE BY APRIL 10 One entry per household, please. 26

MAR 2020

 CAPITOL

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

 wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions

PUZZLE

Capybara = O Bantha = K

Mata mata = E Basilisk = A

Hippogriff = S Babirusa = Y

Bad Names

Tenrec = C Skesis = S

with

Fossa = T Sycorax = D

Okapi = O Sarlacc = R

With up to 2 million different animal species on Earth, it’s hard enough for zoologists and veterinarians to remember who’s who – but can you? Meet these 13 real, live Earth animals and try to decide which of the suggested options is its true name, and which is the name of a fictional species from another time, space or planet. Choose whichever one sounds right, and record the letter below it. If you’ve chosen the correct answer for all 13, you’ll be able to unscramble the letters to form a secret code.

Dalek = G Dik dik = T

Twi’lek = C Sunda Colugo = M

SECRET CODE

__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ ! Kree = V Quokka = E

Haemovore = R Echidna = I

Scurry to page 35 for the answers. Gungan = B Elaphodus = N

Balrog = L Wobbegong = U

Aye Aye = E Ktarian = W MAR 2020

HOME ON THE RANGE

took off my pants, stood up on my saddleless horse (now grazing on the lawn) and climbed right up onto the branch closest to me. I ascended the tree quickly until I made my way to a grumpy grey tabby kitten that was clearly frozen with fear yet at the same time relieved help had arrived. I wrapped my pants around the little spitfire and descended back down the tree. By this time my trusty steed had meandered away to a new patch of grass, so I had to jump from the branch to the ground while holding this kitten.

She Can’t Come in the House BY DR. MEGAN BEAVERS

Childhood for me was essentially spent outside. I made a lot of adventures for myself; riding my horse bareback from sunup to sundown, chasing reptiles and amphibians, swimming in the irrigation water or the stock tank, climbing into the rafters of the old barn or making forts in the haystack. 28

MAR 2020

A lot of this time was spent at my grandma Lois’ house, as my parents tended to be busy farming or on the ranch. I think I was at her house just as much as I was at home. It was easy since she was just a mile down the road.

Grandma had a steady stream of barn cats. Some tame, most wild… but they all knew Grandma brought kibble. She really was never one to have animals in her house or spend time out with the horses and cattle; she much preferred to spend her time quilting, making donuts and cooking up huge daily meals for the men out working. She enabled my love of animals by getting me my first puppy. It was any other summer day when I was out riding my horse and my new puppy alerted me to a little hissing ball stuck up in a tree. Being a smart child, I promptly

Of course, I went straight into the house to show off my new treasure. It wasn’t the first time I caught a wild kitten and it wasn’t the first time I brought it in the house to show her. She always allowed me to feed them a little bit and offer some water, then I had to take it somewhere else. I had dragged a few home already to my mom and dad and had just tamed some to let them go back out to the barn. But something was different and special about this big-eyed grey kitten. I begged Grandma to let me keep it. Lucky for the kitten it easily decided domestication was alright so there wasn’t much taming that needed done on my part. It shortly made its way to Grandma’s lap and became a huge purring machine. Grandma gave in rather quickly. But she had some conditions; I could build her a house and we would get her to the vet but she can’t come in the house. Soon she had a name: Bitsy. Soon Bitsy came in for cuddle time. Soon Bitsy came in the house when the weather was bad. Soon Bitsy was sleeping on Grandma’s bed at night. Soon Bitsy wasn’t allowed outside unless the weather was nice. Soon Bitsy was a full-on fat spoiled house cat. As much as Grandma hated to admit it, she was happy to let that cat into her house and they became best friends.

itsy accompanied my grandma placed in a care facility where Bitsy could not go. We got Grandma an electronic cat she all around the house and named Bitsy that was able to comfort her, while the real Bitsy went to live with my mom. waited for her by the door if About a year after entering the care facility, Grandma Lois passed away at the beautiful Grandma left. They sat outside age of 92. My confidant and my accomplice and the woman that taught me so much together and enjoyed the flowers and about life, was gone. There isn’t a day that has gone by since that I don’t think of her. I sun, and Bitsy followed Grandma around miss her smile. I miss her laugh. I miss her unconditional and unwavering love. I miss outside when she was working in the yard. her donuts and her many talents. Grandma shared her meals with her cat, even chocolate, and Bitsy continued life as a fat house cat with my mom. She they shared countless hours transferred her watchful eye to mom; following her around the I miss her smile. watching “The Golden Girls” house, sleeping on her pillow and asking for chocolate. Slowly it while assembling quilts. became hard for Bitsy to care for herself and she started to lose For many years my grandma and Bitsy enjoyed the retirement life at home on the ranch. Slowly it was getting harder and harder for Grandma to care for herself and she needed to move in with my aunt. Bitsy was there. In time Grandma began to forget the world and people around her and her care was becoming increasingly difficult. She was

I miss her laugh. I miss her unconditional and unwavering love.

I miss her donuts and her many talents.

weight and eventually stopped eating. As much as I wanted to hold onto one of the last pieces of Grandma we had, as a veterinarian I knew there was nothing more I could do for her and it was time to say goodbye. I helped Bitsy pass at the beautiful age of 20, nine months after we lost my grandma. I would have never known that climbing a tree that day without my pants to get a kitten could have brought so much joy into my grandma’s life for so many years. Something was different and special about that big-eyed grey kitten. W Dr. Megan Beavers is a veterinarian in Farson.

GOOD THINGS

ARE HAPPENING ALL AROUND US Your community hospital is the proud recipient of a 5-Star Quality Rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and 19 Healthgrades Awards for 2020. To celebrate, we’re sharing stories about all the good happening around us—and we’d love to hear yours!

Share YOUR story MYSPARKSTORY.ORG

214 East 23rd Street Cheyenne, WY 82001 (307) 634-2273 cheyenneregional.org MAR 2020

COUNTRY COOKS

BEEF SLOW COOKER CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE

COWBOY FRENCH DIP

4 CARROTS, PEELED AND CUT INTO MATCHSTICK PIECES 10 BABY RED POTATOES, QUARTERED 1 ONION, CUT INTO BITE-SIZED PIECES 4 CUPS WATER 1 (4 LB) CORNED BEEF BRISKET WITH SPICE PACKET 1 CUP CHICKEN BROTH 1/2 HEAD CABBAGE, COARSELY CHOPPED Place the carrots, potatoes and onion into the bottom of a slow cooker, pour in the water and place the brisket on top of the vegetables. Pour the chicken broth over the brisket and sprinkle on the spices from the packet; cover and set the cooker on high. Cook the brisket for about 8 hours. An hour before serving, stir in the cabbage and cook for one more hour.

NANCY DENK

RIVERTON

1/2 LB THINLY SLICED ROAST BEEF PER SANDWICH, COOKED SEVERAL SLICES OF CRISP COOKED PEPPER BACON SWISS CHEESE, SLICED BEEF BROTH AU JUS FRENCH DIP BUNS REAL BUTTER Spread real butter on the two slices of the French dip bun and lightly toast or grill until golden brown. Pile warm roast beef, cooked to your preference, on the bun. Add several slices of crisp bacon on top of the roast beef. Top the roast beef and bacon with Swiss cheese slices (can substitute provolone cheese). Place top bun on sandwich. Slice sandwich in half at a diagonal. Prepare the beef broth au jus. If you are cooking your own beef, there are great au jus recipes from scratch. Farmer Brothers brand is very good. There are also McCormick or store brand names. Ladle the au jus into small bowls. Dip your sandwich in the au jus as you eat. Delicious served with cowboy baked beans, tossed salad and chips. My Cowboy French dip is distinguished from the typical French dip, because grilling the bun with real butter prevents the bread from becoming soggy when dipping and adding the pepper bacon adds an extra delicious flavor, and who can resist bacon?

CAROLYN MADDUX

EVANSTON

MAR 2020

2 LBS GROUND BEEF, BROWNED AND DRAINED 2 (8 OZ) PACKAGES CREAM CHEESE 2 (10 OZ) CANS ROTEL TOMATOES 4 CUPS CHICKEN BROTH SHREDDED CHEESE In a slow cooker, blend cream cheese and tomatoes. Add prepared meat. Cook and stir until cream cheese is melted. Pour chicken broth over and stir in. Cook in a slow cooker on low for 4 hours. Two tablespoons taco seasoning mix may be added for taco soup. Sprinkle top with shredded cheese when served. Serves eight.

MARTHA LEAVELL

HASTINGS, NEB.

Send complete recipe by April March10! 10!

Please include your name, address and phone number.

MAY:

BEETS

LOW CARB CROCK POT SOUP

SUBMIT A RECIPE

 wren@wyomingrea.org |  [307] 772-1968  214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001  wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions

PEN TO PAPER

cycl e h

While hauling hay through drifts and cold, to feed a hungry cow. You remember how you sweated up, just so you'd have it now. You build the stacks and pile them high, you hope it is enough. When winter hits Wyoming style, things can get real tough. The white stuff will return to rain, when warmer days arrive. Just keep your fire burning bright, and hope you will survive. You'll remember all these nice cold days, and softly falling snow. When the temperature hits the hundred mark, with six hay fields to go.

RANDY KUSMA

WHEATLAND

The Seasons On My Farm I love spring, but: The last snow was melting, baby chicks were hatching, Tomato plants were growing, garden seeds were sprouting, The lawn needed raking, and my bones were aching; It was springtime on my farm. Summer is so nice, but: The peas needed picking, and the picket fence needed painting. The fryers were ready for butchering, and it was time for jelly making. The lawn and garden needed irrigating, and my bones were aching! It was summertime on my farm. Autumn is great, but: Veggies and fruit needed canning, freezing and storing. Children must be readied for their schooling. Time for holiday planning, and my bones were aching! It was autumn on my farm.

PHOTO BY EMILIA RICLEY

And now: Snowflakes are silently falling, a chilly wind is blowing. Ponds will soon be freezing, but I, in my easy chair, am sleeping While tabby cat on my lap is purring. And, Lo! My bones no longer are aching! It is wintertime on my farm! SUBMITTED BY PAM THOMPSON

ALADDIN

This poem was written by my mother-in-law, Julia Thompson. She ranched just over the South Dakota state line on the Redwater River. She died in 1998.

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 MAR 2020

WHAT'S HAPPENING

WHAT'S HAPPENING REGIONAL MAP

MAR 20 – APR 20

01 | SOUTHEAST C H U G WAT E R APRIL 3

Karaoke Contest: Winners of Jan, Feb and Mar contests will compete for a $500 grand prize. Stampede Saloon & Eatery, info 307-422-3200, stampedefun@aol.com.

GUERNSEY FOURTH SUNDAYS

PHOTO BY JENNIE HUTCHINSON

American Legion Riders: 2p, Crazy Tony’s Bar & Grill, info 307-575-0838.

FEATURED EVENT

LARAMIE APRIL 4

Friends & Alumni of Harmony School Taco Dinner: Dinner, silent auction and raffle to benefit Harmony Elementary students. 4p, Harmony Elementary School, southwest of Laramie on Hwy 230, $5, $20/family. Info ptsharmony@ gmail.com or 307-742-3279.

TORRINGTON APRIL 18 – MAY 2

Friends of the Library Book Sale: Fiction, nonfiction, cooking, craft books, children's and more. Library Foundation Activity Center, info 307-532-6572.

BOYSEN ICE RACES MARCH 22  APRIL 4

REGISTRATION 8-9:30A, RACES END 3P FREMONT BAY AT

BOYSEN STATE PARK, SHOSHONI Bring the whole family to see thrill-seeking daredevil motorcycle racers on Boysen Reservoir. Separate kid’s races on all-terrain vehicles and motorcycles. Concessions onsite for breakfast, lunch and snacks. Leashed dogs allowed. Call ahead to confirm ice conditions. State Park fees $6 per vehicle, $4 per vehicle Wyoming resident. Info 307-851-2724, worra.org

NORTHWEST 32

MAR 2020

SECOND TUESDAYS

Lunch-N-Learn: Bring your lunch and questions about social media, human resources and more at Goshen County Economic Development talks. 12-1p, 21st & Main Loft, info 307-532-5162.

02 | NORTHEAST B U F FA L O THURSDAYS

Bluegrass Jam Session: 6:30p, Occidental Saloon, free, info 307-6840451.

GILLETTE MARCH 21

Farmers’ Market: Unique blend of crafts, produce, meats, jams, jellies and community. Always welcoming new vendors. 9a-noon, Gillette College Tech Center, info on Facebook.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 18

WASP: The Untold Story: Traveling exhibit about 1,830 Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) who served from 1942 to 1944. 9a-5p Mon-Sat, Campbell County Rockpile Museum, free, info 307682-5723, rhenning@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. ONGOING

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

NEWCASTLE SECOND & FOURTH WEDNESDAYS

GiGi’s Closet: Providing free gently-used clothing for the family. 9a-1p, First United Methodist Church, info 307-746-4119.

S H E R I DA N MARCH 27

Janet Feder Concert: A genius guitar player with a lyrical heart, an instrumentalist with a compelling voice and a truly original offering. 7p, Kinnison Hall, Whitney Center for the Arts, $35, $25 seniors, $10 students, info 307-675-0360 or whitneyarts.org. APRIL 9

Boston Brass: Performing exciting classical arrangements to burning jazz standards, Boston Brass treats audiences to a unique brand of entertainment captivating all ages. 7p, Kinnison Hall, Whitney Center for the Arts, $35, $25 seniors, $10 students, info 307-675-0360 or whitneyarts.org. APRIL 16

Sheridan College Jazz: The SC Jazztet student jazz/contemporary music combo and SC Jazz Ensemble big band will play. 7p, Kinnison Hall, Whitney Center for the Arts, free, info 307-675-0360 or whitneyarts.org. APRIL 17

Colorado Chamber Players with Stanislas Quartet: Professional mixed chamber ensemble delivers captivating performances. 7p, Kinnison Hall, Whitney Center for the Arts, $35, $25 seniors, $10 students, info 307-675-0360 or whitneyarts.org.

WHAT'S HAPPENING

APRIL 18

Paul Revere’s Raiders: 7:30p, WYO Performing Arts & Education Center, $38, info 307-672-9084, wyotheater. com.

swift fox research, including data from remote cameras and increased distribution throughout the state. 7p, Dubois Museum, free, info 307-455-2284.

UPTON

LANDER

MARCH 20, APRIL 3, 17

Festival of Tables Fundraiser: 6p, Upton Community Center, info 307468-2642. APRIL 13-17

APRIL 10

MARCH 28

Used Book Sale: 12-6p, Upton Branch Library, info 307-468-2324. ONGOING

Senior Center Activities: Lunch is served at noon Mon-Fri, $4, call for reservation before 9a. 307-468-9267. Stop by Tuesday mornings for coffee and treats, with an exercise program at 9a. Seniors welcome Thu and Fri from 1-4p. Potluck at 5:30p third Mondays. Ask about medical equipment loans. 1113 2nd St., info 307-468-9251.

03 | NORTHWEST A R A PA H O E APRIL 10-12

Northern Arapaho Easter Powwow: Grand Entry Fri 5p and Sat 3p. Great Plains Hall at Great Plains Road & 17 Mile Road. Info 307-840-0261, info@windriver.org, Facebook.com/Easter-Powwow.

C O DY ONGOING

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

DUBOIS MARCH 21

Swift Fox Ecology, Distribution and Trends in Wyoming: Learn about Wyoming Game and Fish

APRIL 6-11

Easter Egg Hunt: Bring the kids to look for and take home up to 10 prize-filled Easter eggs per person. 9a-5p, Riverton Museum, free, info 307-856-2665. APRIL 10

APRIL 9

Wyoming Outlaws with Ray Maple: Historian and re-enactor tells the tales of Butch Cassidy and other Wyoming bad men in this informative and entertaining look at part of Wyoming's infamous history. 7p, Pioneer Museum, free, info 307-332-3339.

Friday Night Bullseye Shoot: 7p, Upton Gun Club $5, info 307-2819980, rrrothleutner@yahoo.com.

MAR 20 – APR 20

Members Show Opening Reception: 6-8p, Lander Art Center, free, info 307-332-5772, landerartcenter.com. APRIL 18

Sheep Shearing Day: Explore the history of the sheep industry in Wind River Country. Witness actual sheep shearing, pet sheep, make crafts from sheep's wool, buy products made from sheep's wool and lots more. 1-3p, Pioneer Museum, free, info 307332-3339. APRIL 18

Lander unWINE’d Gala for the Arts: Art auction, refreshments. 6-8p, Hayden Outdoors, $50-$75, info 307-332-5772, frontdesk@ landerartcenter, landerartcenter. com. SATURDAYS IN APRIL

Acoustic Music Jam: A mix of instruments, voices, ages and levels of ability. No event April 25. 11-1p, Lander Bake Shop, free, info 307-332-3237.

R I V E RT O N MARCH 21

Build Your Own Telegraph: Children’s series participants learn basic principles of electricity and build working telegraphs. 2-4p, Riverton Museum, $10, info 307-856-2665.

Unplugged Acoustic Concert: Local musicians, a variety of artists and genres. 6-8p, Brown Sugar Coffee Roastery, free, info 307-8561116, unplugged.wy@gmail.com. APRIL 16 SUBMIT AN EVENT

Send complete information for the May issue’s events by

APRIL 10!

Please remember that events from the 20th of May to the 20th of June are included in the May issue. Be sure to include the date, title, description, time, cost, location, address and contact information for each event. Photos are always welcome.

Family Documents, Book & Artifact Preservation: Museum staff demonstrate good storage conditions, basic conservation and repairs for your documents. 6:30p, Riverton Museum, free but supplies are limited. Info 307-856-2665. THURSDAYS

Music Jam: Sing or play folk, classic, country, bluegrass, old time rock n’ roll and more. 6:30-8:30p, Brown Sugar Roastery, free, info 307-856-2518.

SHOSHONI APRIL 5

Acoustic Music Jam: Play, sing, dance or just listen. Lunch available. 11a-3p, Shoshoni Senior Citizens Community Center, info 307-876-2703.

THERMOPOLIS SECOND FRIDAYS 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/

wren-submissions

ArtStroll: Stroll on Broadway Street in Historic Downtown Thermopolis. Info 307-864-3002, gatherer@panix.com.

04 | SOUTHWEST F O RT B R I D G E R APRIL 11

Easter Egg Hunt: Take your picture with a silly bunny and hunt for eggs. Sponsored by the Mountain View Lions Club. 10a, Fort Bridger State Historic Site, free, info 307782-3842.

MAR 2020

02 01

01 02 03 04 05

Negative views, Dianalee Prime, Wheatland Experimenting with sunshine, Grace Belize Anderson, Devils Tower Rainbow at the ranch, Jennifer Roberts, Farson Go girl, Shelly Bybee, Cheyenne

THIS MONTH:

EXPERIMENTING

Grandchildren experimenting with an outdoor mud kitchen, Denette Price, Newcastle

04 05

MAY (DUE APR 10):

FARM WORK JUN (DUE MAY 10):

FIRE JUST PICTURE IT

SUBMIT A PHOTO

MAR 2020

 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

BAD WITH NAMES

Capybara = O

Mata mata = E

Wills, Trusts & Probate

Babirusa = Y

Land Use

Tenrec = C

Fossa = T

GAY WOODHOUSE TARA NETHERCOTT HOLLI WELCH JEFF VAN FLEET

Dik dik = T 

 

Okapi = O

Sunda Colugo = M

Quokka = E

Echidna = I

Elaphodus = N

Wobbegong = U

SECRET CODE

N I CE TO ME ET YOU!

DEBORAH RODEN JOANNE SWEENEY KATYE BROWN CHRISTOPHER BRENNAN

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

MOVE OVER W YO M I N G !

Aye Aye = E

PUZZLE ON PAGE 27

WYDOT’s Travel Information System is the one and ONLY source for up-to-the-minute road and travel information. Take road condition information with you. Get the WYOMING 511 app. www.wyoroad.info

Know before you go. Visit wyoroad.info.

I T ’ S T H E L AW !

 Know traffic hazards & road

conditions before you go  View highway webcams  "Where am I?" function  Hands-free, eyes-free function  Easy to use

Available for free download at the Apple App Store.

Available for free download at the Google Play Store.

Drivers in Wyoming are required to move over or slow down for stopped emergency and utility crews.

MAR 2020

ENLIGHTEN US

Wind BY WALT GASSON

MAR 2020

My son and his family live in northern Utah. His lovely wife, raised in the shadow of the Wasatch Range, often remarks that the wind blows here in Wyoming.

Wyomingites take pride in our ability to withstand hurricane force winds and everything else life throws at us. Wimps need not apply.

he inquired one time about the big trucks you see laid over on their sides along I-80. I explained that those long-haul outfits get tired of bucking the wind and just need to lay down and rest a bit before continuing onward. She thinks I’m funny. Funny or not, you can’t help thinking about wind this time of year in Wyoming. It’s literally right there in your face. Sometimes, no matter which way you turn, it seems like you’re facing a gale force headwind. I had a pickup once that I just loved. It was powerful. It could tow anything heavy as fast as you wanted to drive it. But in a headwind, it was a wimp. You could watch the fuel gauge drop, and you knew that you were going to visit every place that sold diesel from wherever you were to wherever you were going. Awesome truck – as long as it never had to face much adversity. Some folks are like that. They show real well, as long as they’ve got the wind at their backs. Wyoming folks are different. This time of year, when we have a particularly windy spell, my social media feeds are full

of competing posts from around the Cowboy State. A friend in Cody lays claim to 76 mph. Another in Wheatland says it hit 81 mph at Bordeaux. Somebody at Harriman claims 90 mph. And so it goes – each of us vying for the title of Least Inhabitable Place in the Interior West. Wyomingites take pride in our ability to withstand hurricane force winds and everything else life throws at us. Wimps need not apply. It’s probably been like that since the beginning. This is not a place where you can live your life in the absence of a headwind; literally or metaphorically. They say that the Comanche people – a tough bunch and the greatest horse warriors the world has ever known – once lived in Wyoming. According to their history, sometime in the late 1600s or early 1700s they lit out and rode until they hit the southern plains of Texas and Oklahoma. I suspect the wind ran them off. It was that way when the big trail herds came up from Texas. Some of the young waddies that came up the trail found a place that suited them on the lower Laramie, the Platte or maybe Powder River. Most did not. And with each successive migration to Wyoming, the same thing happened. Those who could make their peace with low wages, periodic economic busts, March gales and the complete absence of both spring and an Old Navy store; they stayed. Those who couldn’t handle it left. Life is full of headwinds, of adversity. Sometimes, it seems like you’ve been bucking a headwind forever, not unlike March in Wyoming. But I’ve learned that the headwinds of life are pretty much what you make of them. You can choose to simply quit, if you want. But if you’re willing to tough it out, and especially if you’re willing to tough it out alongside other people who care about you, it doesn’t seem all that bad. If you’re willing to find joy in the simple things – the sound of a meadowlark, the smell of spring rain, the first lambs or calves – it will all be worth it in the end. W

Walt Gasson is a fourth-generation Wyoming native and the director of endorsed businesses for Trout Unlimited.

MAR 2020

CLASSIFIEDS WREN CLASSIFIED ADS ARE $0.75 PER SIX CHARACTERS | CONTACT:  SHAWNA@GOLINDEN.COM

 970-221-3232 EXT 22

CATEGORIES 01.

EQUIPMENT

02. FOR SALE 03. HORSES 04. LIVESTOCK 05. POULTRY 06. REAL ESTATE 07. WANTED 08. CRAFTS 09. OPPORTUNITIES 10.

MISCELLANEOUS

11.

BUSINESS CONSULTING

12.

FOR RENT

13.

HELP WANTED

14.

DOGS

15.

EMPLOYMENT SOUGHT

16.

BUILDING SUPPLIES

17.

TRAVEL & RECREATION

18.

HEALTH

19.

PERSONAL

20. FREE

MAR 2020

02 | FOR SALE

07 | WANTED

Brokenbackranchqh.com 2019 AQHA, APHA and quality grade quarter horse colts/fillies. Roans, Bay, Sorrels, Tobiano, Gray. 307-272-5509. Ten Sleep, 82442.

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 307-6808647 jwandler@LNH.net or daughter Briana Brewer 307-660-2402 bbrewer@frontierauto.net.

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.

MOSS ROCK–Wyoming Moss Rock: We will buy your moss rock. All types, colors, and sizes are considered; the more moss the better, the more unusual the better. Call Gina for details, 307-761-1838. Want to purchase minerals & other oil/gas interests. Send details to: PO Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201.

20|FREE Soon Church/Government uniting, suppressing "Religious Liberty" enforcing "National Sunday Law." Be Informed! Needing Mailing address. TSBM Box 99, Lenoir City, TN 37771, thebiblesaystruth@yahoo.com, 1-888-211-1715.

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ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD’S

Emotional Development

Bonding with your baby happens in many ways – from cuddling to play – and it establishes a great foundation for emotional learning. When you engage in activities such as these together, you’ll encourage your baby’s emotional development and sense of self from day one!

Talk (and read and sing!).

Make eye contact.

Lay next to them during tummy time and encourage them.

Give them kisses on the cheek, belly, arm, or foot and say, “got you!” each time.

Respond – to their cries, their babbling speech, and any emotions they’re expressing.

Go outside and talk about what you see, hear, and feel.

CLA M

JELLYF

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Puff

Puff your cheeks like a Fill your pufferfish cheeks ! as you with can and as muc h air count to 5. Clown around like a clown fish. Make the silliest face you can think of!

f fe r f i s h

Clown around Make like a the sillie clown fish. st face you can think of!

P u f fe r f i

ning ow

Cuddle yourself Place like a each clam. shoulder hand on and give your oppo site Stretch like a starfish! yourself a hug! Ext Stretch your legs end Cuddle yourself like Chom wide, then place your a clam. arms over of eac both your head and see p like how high you can Placea each hand on top h other; arms reach! your opposite sha han bot in froshoulder rk! give yourself d and you should tom han nt of a hug! you r arm be pal d sho , sta s to bring m dow uld be cked pal on top n. you r han Open m up and ds tog and eth close er.

Emotional Regulation Cards!

YF ELL I

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tch W A I Lc u d dl tr etch c u d ds w s a y wa y p n w i n lo Stretch Stretch like a Wh your starfi at legs wide your sh!do head you and see , then plac Ma think ke dif how high e your a ferent you can arms over whale like sou reach! nds wh noises ales like tha ? talkin t sou nd g!

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.

AM CL s

f ish LA M Sta Wha C r f ish

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This month’s activity

Pok e you turtle r ton pok gue out es out Stick just you the r ir neclike a the n qui tongue k. ckl y hid out and e it!

to n g

 For more emotional development activities to do together, visit wyqualitycounts.org/wren 

Sw ay you r arm Bend s like ove jellyfis and r and forth, sw h ten slow ay you tac les. and r arm s the n fas back t!

f IL P u fW A

WAI L

Puff your cheeks like

a pufferfish! Fill your cheeks with as much air as you can and count to 5.

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