Wyoming Rural Electric News October 2025

CREATED FOR COMMUNITIES

Community support is more than a nice idea – it’s Basin Electric’s culture. Giving back is important to us because charitable programs and non-profit organizations help our communities thrive.

Our communities have supported us throughout the years by providing a strong workforce, and without them, we couldn’t provide reliable, affordable electricity across rural America. Now more than ever, community matters.

Where It’s Safe in Wyoming

STORY BY NEVA BODIN

“NOT-FOR-PROFIT” MEANS “ALL FOR YOU”

It’s hard to imagine what our daily lives would be like without electricity. Every year, our dependence on what travels across poles and wires to our homes and businesses grows. We act as though electricity has always been there, take its presence for granted, and can’t imagine life without it. Even the shortest power outage manages to turn our world upside-down.

But 90 years ago, when President Franklin Roosevelt signed the executive order that created the Rural Electrification Administration (REA), nobody in America’s small towns and wide-open spaces took electricity for granted. That’s because most of them didn’t have access to it.

As the 19th Century drew to a close, wealthy investors were starting electricity utility companies in cities from coast to coast. Building power plants and installing power lines was costly, so investors focused their effort in places with the highest population density. Few gave any thought to rural America. Built-up areas offered more customers in smaller spaces, which helped those utilities become highly profitable. Running power lines to serve a handful of consumers spread across so many thousands of acres just didn’t make economic sense, so most utilities ignored them. After all, they couldn’t make as much money serving those places.

Long after their city cousins became accustomed to enjoying the wonders of electric lighting and the earliest home appliances, folks in more remote areas could only dream about the convenience. The REA was created to change that, providing a source of expertise and financing for a new concept in energy: the rural electric power cooperative.

Besides the areas each served, the most important distinctions

between those big utilities and the new co-ops involved who owned them and their purpose. As the name implies, investor-owned utilities are owned by people who buy stock in the utilities. The primary goal of those utilities is to make money to distribute to their investors through dividends and to generate higher per-share prices to increase those investors’ wealth.

Electric cooperatives are built and owned not by investors, but by the very people they serve. They’re led by boards of local residents who are elected by their neighbors to represent them and are responsible for acting in the members’ best interests.

The primary goal of a co-op isn’t to make money, but to provide a safe and reliable source of electricity at a cost the local community can afford. As not-forprofit organizations, they receive their money from members when they pay electric bills, then use most of that money to purchase and deliver electricity. They typically set aside some money for the future and emergency needs. And, because they employ local people who patronize local businesses, much of the money they earn stays in the communities they serve, boosting the local economy.

Most co-ops purchase electricity on the wholesale power market and turn around and sell it to members at a slight markup designed to cover the costs associated with operating the co-op and maintaining the infrastructure for delivering power. That’s why co-ops don’t make more money when you use more power, or when wholesale prices increase. It’s also why they are dedicated to helping their members reduce energy consumption and lower their power bills.

When co-ops earn more than they pay out in wholesale energy and other costs, they keep some of the

extra money in reserves or return it to their members through what are known as capital credits.

Because co-ops exist to serve their members and not profit-hungry investors, they have an obligation to keep the price of electricity as low as possible. When members spend less for their electricity, they have more money to use on what’s important to them.

Co-ops also work to support the area’s economic health through activities designed to bring new employers to the community and help existing businesses expand. That’s particularly important, because many of the areas served by co-ops face economic challenges. One in four households on co-op lines nationally has an annual income of below $35,000, which makes keeping rates affordable a key priority.

When the leaders of investorowned utilities make decisions, their first thought is how those choices will affect the price of their company’s stock. When co-op leaders make decisions, they’re focused on doing the best thing for their members. Instead of trying to impress Wall Street, co-ops want to make sure they’re meeting your needs for power at the best price possible. That’s because they’re truly not for profit––instead, they’re for you and your neighbors.

SHAWN TAYLOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

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Source:

Cooperatives Attend 3rd Annual WREA Fall Conference in September

LOCAL COOPERATIVES FROM ACROSS THE STATE TRAVELED TO LANDER ON SEPTEMBER 16 TO PARTICIPATE IN THE CONFERENCE, WHICH STARTED WITH A BANQUET AND MUSIC PROVIDED BY SCOTT BRAGONIER, AN AMERICANA ARTIST FROM CODY.

The conference also included a presentation from Garrett Rickets, lineman from Carbon Power & Light, and Levi Gossard, lineman from Powder River Energy Corporation (PRECORP), about their experience working with a crew from Oregon to bring electricity for the first time to a remote village in Guatemala with NRECA’s International Program. Their experience was also featured in the May issue of WREN.

Brenda Green with PRECORP provided an update on the cooperative’s working partnership with Zeitview to implement their wildfire mitigation plan. Grid United talked about their ambitious Wyoming intertie project to connect the eastern and western grids at Laramie River Station, followed by Evercore, who talked about the energy demand coming from data centers and AI facilities, and how micro nuclear reactors could play a role in meeting these massive demands.

Partners from Federated, Touchstone Energy and CFC also provided insightful updates and their outlook on the future for the co-ops. CFC’s Eric Anderson presented a check to WREA in the amount of $17,900 from CFC and NCSC, to use toward WREA’s educational efforts.

The luncheon keynote speaker was Joe Schaffer, President of Laramie County Community College, who gave a thought provoking presentation called “The 2 Wyomings,” in which he spoke about the differences between rural and urban Wyoming (as well as nationwide) and how these communities need each other for both to thrive.

The conference wrapped up with Senator Cale Case and Representative Lloyd Larsen, both from Lander, discussing net-metering, third party generation, property taxes and the coming budget session.

Where itʼs Safe

BY NEVA BODIN

After 30 years of marriage and the introduction of a gun by her husband into their “discussions,” Nancy fled to a safe house.

Empowering individuals and families to Prevail Over Abuse.

A safe house is a place where someone can go for shelter and assistance in dealing with multiple facets of leaving an unsafe situation.

Wyoming has options for women and men who feel unsafe at any stage of a relationship. And in the plans for the state is a transitional home for single moms, The McKenzie Home, which will address a need that is currently unmet.

The mission of Safehouse Services, a nonprofit in Cheyenne, is “Empowering individuals and families to prevail over abuse.” It has operated in Laramie County since 1979, said Carla Thurin, Executive Director.

Starting out addressing sexual assault, it began assisting people dealing with domestic violence, which “includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure or wound someone,” as defined by the Office on Violence Against Women within the U.S. Department of Justice. Safehouse Services also assists victims of human stalking.

“We do everything for free,” said Thurin. “There’s no reason people can’t get the help if they are seeking it. We provide services to all ages and all genders.

“So many abusers are really good at making their victim believe that they are going to lose their children if they tell [about abuse], that they won’t have a dime to their name, and making their victim believe they [the abuser] are in control. I’ve been at Safehouse for 27 years, and right now I’m starting to see children who were there with their mother. It’s cyclical. You get involved in the same kind of relationship your parents were involved in when you were a child," Thurin said.

Prevent. Shelter. Heal.

“People get stuck in thinking, ‘I need to work this out; I shouldn’t seek help.' We want to make it possible for people to find their way out of the violence that they are living in.”

Safehouse Services has a Facebook page and a 24/7 hotline: 307-637-7233.

Self Help Center’s mission, located in Evansville, is to “Prevent. Shelter. Heal.”

Executive Director Jennifer Dyer states, “We are a domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and elder abuse advocacy agency … [and] the only agency like ours in the county.”

only domestic violence agency in the state with free mental health service providers on staff, Dyer said.

The agency sees about 300 clients a year, with 130-150 going into a safe house. “We are starting to see larger families,” said Dyer.

If it takes one time, seven times or more to leave a violent situation, Self Help Center is there to help that person, said Dyer. “We get clients who have been trafficked, and we try to get them into centers that deal specifically with [people being] trafficked. We partner with one [center] in Greeley,

Self Help Center has a CORE program: Conservation, Outdoors, Recreation and Education. Through this program, they conduct six, weeklong, service-learning camping trips for youth ages 8-18. On these trips, they partner with the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service to build trails and fences, learn coping skills and learn how to give back to communities. They also provide support groups and

On the first Sunday evening in October each year, Self Help Center holds a Candlelight Vigil to honor and remember those lost to domestic violence. The annual event also strengthens the community’s resolve to support survivors and their commitment to prevention.

“There’s a stigma that exists for every survivor of violence, whether male or female. It’s up to the community to try to help us keep these individuals safe,” Dyer said.

The number for the Self Help Center 24-hour crisis line is 307-235-2814.

Amy Haefner, with the Safe Project in Albany County, became interested in finding ways to help people in domestic violence situations after her own experience with domestic violence and being stalked. She began volunteering at the agency in 2017. In 2023, she became the Executive Director.

“The agency was begun in 1974 by nine female law students at the University of Wyoming who, out of the goodness of their hearts, got together to figure out ways to help people who were going through domestic violence,” said Haefner. They do prevention and outreach programs in schools for kindergarten through 12th grade and in the community, with campus-specific programs for colleges.

The average length of stay in a shelter is eight weeks, but Haefner said it has been a struggle to find other housing for clients due to rent prices.

“Our program does not have transitional housing, which is a huge need. On average now, people are staying in our shelter probably four months.”

“Our clients aren’t just from intimate partner relationships, but also family violence involving younger as well as older clients. We have had males in our shelter continuously for the last two years,” Hastener said.

Provide the environment and tools to and reach goals for families. foster hope

Safe Project started a Safe Men Program in 2019. Designed to empower men to create positive change around gender-based violence, they discuss power-based violence, trauma, protection orders and healthy masculinity. They reach out to community members, including police officers, business owners and students, teaching them to be the voice somebody needs.

The McKenzie Home, a transitional home for single mothers, will serve all of Wyoming from its location in Green River. It is named by the founder, Debra Moerke, in honor of her granddaughter, born to a single mom and adopted by Moerke’s daughter. Sadly, McKenzie passed away at age 5 from cancer.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 32.9% of all live births in Wyoming are to single mothers.

Oil City News reported April 28, 2025, “Official birth certificate data show that 6,079 births were recorded to Wyoming resident mothers in 2024.”

That’s 2,000 babies born to single moms in Wyoming in 2024.

“After fostering over 140 children during an 18-year period, I have developed a tremendous heart for single moms and their children,” said Moerke. “Our jails, prisons, rescue missions, and drug and alcohol rehab centers are very familiar with single moms. Many struggling single moms end up in those facilities due to a lack of support, direction or skills. We want to be proactive in keeping those situations from developing.

“We are already getting requests from single moms in need of a home where they will be given the skills to build a successful future for themselves and their children. The lives of these mothers and their kids matter,” Moerke said.

McKenzie’s Heart, a support group for single moms, meets monthly in Casper to share fellowship and community, and learn about resources in the community.

McKenzie’s Heart is also planned for Worland, with the hope of establishing more groups throughout the state.

For more information, call Executive Director Debra Moerke at 307-2678394, or visit themckenziehome.org.

Whether a recipient of, or a worker to prevent domestic violence and assist those who experience it, Wyoming provides opportunities for you. A transitional home, such as The McKenzie Home, will provide the environment and tools, as any home should, to foster hope and reach goals for families.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Contact numbers for safe services and advocacy programs in each county in Wyoming can be found at wyomingdvsa.org/programs. W

Bodin is a Casper-based freelance writer, author, artist and poet.

RELIABILITY FOR EVERY MILE

At Tri-State G&T, our energy mix is as diverse as the landscapes we serve. With renewables, natural gas, battery storage, and more, we’re delivering reliable, affordable power with an electric system that’s built for the long haul. Whether increasing storm resilience or meeting the growing energy demand, the decisions we’re making now will help safeguard reliability in the rural West for years to come.

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Tri-State is a not-for-profit power supplier to cooperatives and public power districts in Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming.

SQUIRRELS Squirrelly

COOPERATION IN NATURE

They are thieves, they’re acrobats –down-right squirrelly is what they really are!

Terrific Tails

Next time you see a squirrel in a tree, stick around long enough to watch it climb down the tree trunk, HEAD-FIRST! Squirrels are able to perform this marvelous maneuver due to the ability of the ankles of their five-toed back feet to rotate 180 degrees, thereby allowing the hind feet to point backwards, which allows their claws to dig deeper into the tree bark. This feature, along with their distinctive bushy tail, provides balance for the rodent. The tail also protects a squirrel’s body from rain, wind and cold. Pro tip: if you happen upon a delicate tail hair, use it to tie flies to fishing rods.

Squirrel Olympics, Anyone?

Squirrels are a fairly common sight in Wyoming. Although there are 285 species of squirrels in the world, our state is home to only four types. The two most common are the red squirrel, native to Wyoming, and the Eastern gray squirrel, a non-native principally found in the state’s urban areas, often in our own backyards. You might have seen either one scrambling up a tree to feed on berries, nuts, or lurking from a branch, nervously eyeing a nearby bird feeder, maybe even risking a jump to get at it, quickly scattering all winged feasters. The acrobatic squirrel can jump horizontally 8 to 10 feet from a tree branch to a pole supporting a bird feeder!

Hoarders Turned Heroes

Squirrels and their winged backyard “frenemies” share more than their love of bird food: both bury seeds and nuts in preparation for winter feeding, a practice known as caching. And both are guilty of thievery! Squirrels are capable of burying thousands of seeds in a season that they can dig up for food come winter. They can tunnel beneath a foot of snow to arrive at their supply, but sometimes it might be empty, raided by another wily squirrel. Other times, the cache might be forgotten and a seedling tree from a buried seed might pop up in a yard. Or maybe “poop up” in a yard as the result of a squirrel, or bird, pooping the seeds out after ingesting them. Thus, we can thank the oftentimes pesky squirrels for their contribution to ensuring the survival of various tree species!

The Conference Call

Gerry Spence is on the phone,” Mary told me. “He wants to talk about some sheep by Fort Washakie.” Mary's eyes were big and full of questions. Gerry Spence was an attorney from Dubois who had gained national recognition for representing the family of Karen Silkwood in a landmark 1979 civil lawsuit against the Kerr-McGee Corporation. He was flamboyant, with white hair and a buckskin jacket, and renowned throughout the country as a defender of little people against large corporations.

That reputation also made him absolutely intimidating for a veterinarian who had graduated from school three months earlier.

But Mike, my boss and owner of the vet clinic, was out, so I was the one who was going to talk to Mr. Spence.

I quizzed Mary, our technician, about what he had told her on the phone.

“He said he needed to talk to the veterinarian about a herd of sheep we had been treating near Ft. Washakie,” she responded.

“Apparently they belong to his friend and some of them have died.”

Now I understood what Mr. Spence was calling about. There was a herd of pregnant ewes that had been aborting lambs. Ada, the shepherd taking care of the flock, had come into the clinic just yesterday to discuss it with us. She reported that approximately 20 ewes out of the herd of 250 head had aborted. So far none of the ewes had died. Mike and I suspected this was a bacterial infection called Vibriosis. It is a bad disease which may cause as many as fifty percent of the ewes in a herd to abort. The ewes would likely survive but the economic loss would be terrible.

My heart was pounding as I reached for the phone to respond to the attorney. My advantage was that I was fresh out of school. I remembered much of what the 1974 Merck Veterinary Manual said about Vibriosis. My disadvantage was that I was fresh out of school and talking to Gerry Spence!

“Hello Mr. Spence. This is Dr. Connally.” I chose a formal introduction, trying to achieve a small amount of parity with the celebrated attorney.

“Dr. Connally,” the rich baritone voice reverberated through the phone. “This is Gerry Spence. My colleague from Tennessee is also on the line. He is the owner of the flock in question. I understand your clinic has been attending to this flock.” Spence continued without allowing me to respond. “What can you tell me about these sheep aborting their lambs?”

A conference call! I had never been on a conference call and now I was talking to Gerry Spence and another attorney on the same call. My heart rate increased another notch.

“Yes Sir. The shepherd caring for the flock came to the clinic yesterday to discuss the problem,” I began tentatively.

“I think this shepherd is the problem,” the Tennessee attorney interjected. “I think she is feeding bad hay.”

“My colleague has concern about the husbandry of the flock,” Spence interrupted.

“Dr. Ruby believes Ada is a good shepherd,” I responded defensively. “We suspect this is a bacterial infection called Vibriosis, not mismanagement.”

“An infection!” The other attorney interjected. “Where did that come from?”

“This infection was likely present in the herd when you bought them,” I explained. “It causes damage but doesn’t result in abortion until the lambs are nearly full term.”

“You think I bought infected sheep!” The attorney exploded.

“I believe that eight percent of the ewes have aborted. What interventions are you proposing to minimize losses for my colleague?” Gerry Spence masterfully changed the confrontation to a search for solutions.

“Dr. Ruby is scheduled to examine the flock tomorrow morning,” I reported. “In the mean time we have recommended isolating affected animals to decrease transmission of the bacteria.”

“Tomorrow,” Spence repeated. “Expediency would seem to be indicated to minimize the losses for my colleague.” The owner of the sheep remained silent now, apparently in deference to Mr. Spence.

“Yes Sir,” I responded. “Dr. Ruby is treating some cattle now, but I will relay your concerns to him immediately when he returns.”

“Thank you,” Gerry Spence responded. “I look forward to hearing from Dr. Ruby.”

Mike’s eyes were big as I reported the details of the call.

“Gerry Spence called about those sheep! Ada told me some guy from out of state owned them.”

“Yep. An attorney from Tennessee. Friend of Spence,” I confirmed.

Without another word Mike headed out to his pickup and drove away.

“I wonder where he is going,” Mary commented. “He has two appointments scheduled for this afternoon.”

By nine o’clock the next morning Mike had still not shown up. Mary and I were concerned but were busy seeing patients. Finally, a little before noon his pickup slid to a stop in front of the clinic door. Mike looked tired. He hadn’t shaved and was still wearing the same shirt from yesterday.

“I went out to those sheep yesterday, picked up six aborted lambs, and drove them to the State Vet Laboratory in Laramie last night,” He explained. “I was at the door when they opened this morning. As soon as they heard that Gerry Spence was involved they dropped everything else. We were right. The sheep have Vibriosis.” He paused for a second, obviously fatigue beginning to set in. “I called Ada from the lab. She is separating the sick ewes and starting the whole flock on penicillin. I told her to tell the owner of the sheep.” He turned toward the door. “I’m going to bed.”

It was lunch time. I ate my sandwich in the office and reflected on how Gerry Spence had managed the situation. He recognized my inexperience as a vet but allowed me to provide medical expertise. His colleague was angry and worried. Spence was powerful enough to redirect that emotion and prevent a negative situation. And because it was Gerry Spence asking, everyone moved at lightning speed to solve the problem. There were no threats of negative consequences. It was an absolute master class in the positive use of power.

Gerry Spence died on August 13, 2025, at the age of 96. W

Katydids & Trains

Fading Sounds of the Cherokee Fringe

BY B.L. PERRYMAN

FREE COPY! WIN A

“Katydids and Trains” is a coming-of-age adventure that both adults and older children will treasure. Adults will enjoy the word play and bits of wisdom gained over the years and passed down from generations that are sprinkled across the pages. Children and teenagers will enjoy the adventures, marveling at what kids could do and how far they could roam without adults back in those times. Kids who enjoy books like “The Boxcar Children,” “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn,” “Hank the Cowdog,” “Shiloh” and “Pax” are very likely to savor the close personal relationships and adventures the characters share in this book, and that are described in such loving detail.

B.L Perryman is a gifted storyteller, and the first half of the book is well spent on character development through funny and heart-warming stories that draw the reader into the land of rural northcentral Texas, circa 1960-65. The poignant scenes are depicted in such a way that you can taste the fried catfish and smell the cornbread cooking in Grandma’s kitchen. This book is super fun to read aloud, especially if you like trying out your best rendition of a Texas accent!

“Katydids and Trains” plunges the reader into the family of Cherokee mixed-bloods in mid-1960s northcentral Texas the way Mark Twain would have written it. Perryman’s vernacular style immerses us in the story of a young boy and his siblings seeking a path through life. It is set in a time of social upheaval, a story of dying cultures and hatreds hidden in the social shadows of the segregated South just as the Civil Rights movement exploded. Finding redemption amid the anger, Perryman’s characters take the drama to an unexpected crescendo, making his tale moving and memorable. Highly recommended!

– C.J. Hadley, publisher/editor of RANGE magazine

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Spirituality

“I never expected it to be so beautiful that it takes your breath away.”

— Kaya C., on Stauer Opals

In a quaint village, nestled between rolling hills, lived a young woman with a deep appreciation for gemstones. Her grandmother gifted her a delicate cross pendant adorned with opals. The opals shimmered with a mesmerizing play of colors, reflecting hues of blues, greens, and fiery oranges. Her grandmother shared the legend of the opals, believed to bring hope, purity, and luck to those who wore them.

Using this story as inspiration, Stauer brings you the Opal Spirit Cross Pendant. With over 2 total carats of Kyocera lab-created opals set in .925 sterling silver encased in yellow gold, this pendant is a radiant celebration of beauty and craftsmanship. Each opal captivates with a kaleidoscopic dance of fiery oranges blending into oceanic blues, streaked with flashes of vibrant green that seem to come alive with every movement. The shimmering opals are skillfully arranged to create an enchanting, otherworldly glow, embodying the spirit of hope and harmony.

This breathtaking combination of color and craftsmanship is available as a limited availability of only

930 pieces, making it a rare and treasured addition to your jewelry collection. Plus, when you order today, you’ll receive the gold-finished sterling silver chain—a $69 value—absolutely free!

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Necklace Specifications:

• 2 1/2 ctw. Kyocera lab opals and DiamondAura® accents

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PUMPKIN

CHEWY PUMPKIN COOKIES

For the spiced sugar:

1/4 CUP GRANULATED

1/2 TSP PUMPKIN PIE SPICE

For the pumpkin cookies:

3/4 CUP UNSALTED BUTTER,

1

1-3/4

1/2

In a small bowl mix the granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice together. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 350° and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Spread the canned pumpkin on a plate and lightly press with paper towel to absorb excess liquid. Repeat four times, until hardly any liquid transfers onto the paper towel. Set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar on high for 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy. Add in egg yolks and vanilla on medium. Add in pumpkin. Add dry ingredients on low until combined. Chill dough for 10 minutes. Scoop 2 tbs dough and roll into balls. Roll balls in the spiced sugar, placing 2” apart on baking sheet. Bake for 12-14 minutes. Cookies are done when centers are puffy. Cool. Makes 18 cookies.

WREN STAFF

DECEMBER:

PUMPKIN SOUP

1 TBS OLIVE OIL

2 CUPS YELLOW ONION, CHOPPED

10 WHOLE BLACK PEPPERCORNS

4 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED

1 TSP FRESH THYME, CHOPPED

3 CUPS PUMPKIN PUREE

4 CUPS CHICKEN STOCK

3 TBS MAPLE SYRUP (OPTIONAL)

3/4 TSP KOSHER SALT

1/4 TSP GROUND NUTMEG (OPTIONAL)

1/4 TSP GROUND CINNAMON (OPTIONAL)

1/2 CUP HEAVY WHIPPING CREAM

2 TBS CHOPPED FRESH PARSLEY

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add onion, stirring until onion is browned and softened, about 10 minutes. Add peppercorns, garlic and thyme. Cook 2 minutes, stirring until fragrant and slightly browned.

Stir in pumpkin puree, about 5 minutes. Stir in chicken stock, maple syrup, salt, nutmeg and cinnamon. Bring to a simmer, uncovered, over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally, 30 minutes.

Transfer soup to blender in batches; secure lid and remove center piece to allow steam to escape. Place a clean towel over the opening, blend until smooth about 30 seconds per batch. Return soup to pot and stir in heavy cream. Cook on medium for 4 minutes.

Garnish with fresh parsley.

Serves 6.

WREN STAFF

Unbelievable Rewards Of the Cowboy Life, Sobriety and Helping Others

BY JACKIE DOROTHY

Scotty Ratliff of Riverton grew up in the saddle on his family’s tribal assignment, a 250,000-acre ranch in Pavillion. This is where he learned the value of hard work from his parents.

Ratliff’s mother was a member of the Eastern Shoshone tribe and his father came from a Quaker family in Iowa, passing on his love of peace and the importance of being a man of action.

This love of the cowboy way of life has followed Ratliff his entire life, reflected in his community service and how he is quick to help out anyone in need.

“We did everything from horseback,” Ratliff said. “It's become a bigger part of my life than just riding a horse. It is where I get my strength and sometimes my solutions.”

Ratliff’s mother believed that a good education was the key to success, so in his sophomore year, she sent him to boarding school in North Dakota.

“I never experienced cold or loneliness like I did in North Dakota that year,” Ratliff said. “It just went on forever, and they let me come home.”

Ratliff graduated from Pavilion and attended the University of Wyoming right out of school. Instead of getting a degree, he promptly flunked out. He then got married and started a family, which led to three daughters, six grandchildren and 12 greatgrandchildren.

Ratliff described himself as having been a social drinker, but that had rapidly turned into an addiction. At 24, he was a college dropout and struggling to support his family when his path took a sharp turn.

Ratliff was drafted into the army and, because he loved his country, went to Vietnam. He was assigned to the machine gun crew with the 25th Infantry, a job that meant he had a target on his back. During the Vietnam War, Ratliff and his platoon had been sent out to scout the jungle for enemy soldiers and had just set up for lunch when they were ambushed.

“It felt like the world just got mad and started shooting at us,” Ratliff said. “There was gunfire coming from everywhere.”

Eight of the American soldiers were hit that day, including Ratliff.

“After I got shot, I knew it was fairly severe,” he said. “I saw my right arm flying in front of me, and it knocked me over. I actually thought it had blown my arm off, but it also had penetrated my right lung.”

For 15 agonizing minutes, Ratliff struggled to breathe until he was evacuated from the firefight. Eventually, he was discharged and sent home, his arm beyond repair.

“I had lost the use of my right arm,” Ratliff said. “I realized the importance of education because I recognized I'd no longer be able to make a physical contribution to a family. So I took college serious.”

Ratliff doubled down on his education, earning degrees in teaching and ultimately his graduate degree in guidance and counseling at the University of Wyoming. However, his drinking continued.

“I wasn't a particularly good father or husband,” Ratliff said. “I damn sure wasn't a good citizen. I was kind of a raging alcoholic.”

Ratliff had been heavily drinking for nearly 20 years when he took his last drink on February 17, 1979. He was working as a counselor at Central Wyoming College in Riverton and had only intended to

just take a break from alcohol for the sake of his family.

to embarrass the community that elected him, so he decided to remain sober while he was in Cheyenne. He felt that winning was a gift from the Creator and Ratliff wanted to do the best job possible.

founding the Cowboy Hall of Fame, promoting economic development as a founding member and board chair of the Wind River Development Fund, and co-authoring a book about tribal government which has been republished this year through the Wyoming Humanities Council.

“I was 36 years old and it took two months for the fog to lift,” Ratliff said. “I had all this energy and these new ideas that led me to run for the legislature. It's amazing how differently you think when you're not clogging your mind with alcohol.”

Ratliff won his race as a representative of Fremont County and was the first Native to be elected in that role. He was determined not

“I had a full year of being sober and I discovered I liked myself better,” Ratliff said. “Sobriety allowed me to be able to think freely and to help other people.”

After serving for 12 years, Ratliff left the legislature. He continued working at the college and spent 25 years there before retiring. However, he was not done helping others and was soon serving as tribal liaison for Senator Mike Enzi, and was appointed to the Wyoming State Board of Education.

Over the years, Ratliff has been a man of action, and his achievements include

Ratliff also has found a way to honor Native veterans by helping to create a veteran’s monument at Fort Washakie. This monument is to be a place of healing and encourages following the Red Road, a path that Ratliff said leads to the Creator.

“I honestly believe that we're here on the earth to help other people, but I couldn’t do that when I was drinking,” Ratliff said. “The rewards have been just unbelievable. I love life and work on my sobriety every day.” W

Cousin Fun

Lorraine Griffith, Powell

Golden Hour

Valerie Mason, Saratoga 01 02 03

Martha Rasmussen, Burlington

Frosty Leaves

Robin Riesland, Newcastle

Fall Leaves Showing Off Lauree Scott, Gillette

Summer’s End

Bob and Tara Seely, Torrington

Autumn Aspen

Tam Hedges, Aladdin

Autumn in Jay Em

Johnny A Chavez, Torrington

Polka Dots and Leaves

Fall Variegations

Maureen Shuler, Powell

Leaves From My Yard

Gina Marie Burns, Mountain View

Sunlit Maple Leaves

Marilyn Schmoker, Osage

Swing in Golden Tranquility

Margaret Bauer, Newcastle

Wearing the Robes of Fall

Tara Seely, Torrington

Golden Leaves Of Fall

Trudy Craft, Basin

New England Maple

Vicki Olson, Powell

Heather McLaughlin, Upton

Leaves

Laurie Tucker, Hulett

October Frost in the Tetons Vicki Olson, Powell

Fall Colors On the Lawn Rob McIntosh, Torrington

When Orange Meets Blue Cindi Olson, Newcastle

22ND ANNUAL VETERANS DAY PARADE

GILLETTE  NOVEMBER 11

Join us in honoring all American veterans at Wyoming’s only Veterans Day Parade! 2025 Grand Marshalls are the Wyoming Army National Guard!

If you want to participate in the parade, packets will be available October 1 to pick up and return at The American Legion Post 42, 200 Rockpile Ave. Parade entries are due by Sunday, November 9 to ensure your position in the parade. All additional entries will be accepted and placed at the end of the parade.

Time: 1pm

Cost: Free

Location: Begins at 2nd St and 4J Ave. Ends at Osborne Ave.

Information: Linda, 307-680-8341; Lisa, 970-590-5177; Marie, 307-660-1315 or Helen, 307-660-8729. gilletteveteransparade@gmail.com.

01 | SOUTHEAST

CENTENNIAL

THURSDAY-MONDAY

Nici Self Historical Museum: 12-4pm. Explore museum grounds and exhibits. Free. Info: niciselfmuseum.com.

CHUGWATER

THURSDAYS

Acoustic Jam Session and 4-Piece

Chicken Dinners: 5:30pm. Stampede Saloon & Eatery, 417 1st St. Thursday night pickin’ and grinnin’ and fried chicken...while it lasts. Call to reserve your chicken so you don’t miss out! Music venue open for jam sessions. Info: 307-422-3200, stampedefun@aol.com.

ONGOING

Live Music: Stampede Saloon & Eatery. Weekend performances. Info: 307-422-3200, stampedefun@aol.com.

ENCAMPMENT

TUESDAYS-SATURDAYS

Grand Encampment Museum: 10am-4pm. Main Gallery and GEM store open. Info: 307-327-5308.

LA GRANGE

NOVEMBER 7-8

2 Craft Fairs in 1 Weekend: Nov. 7, 12-7pm, Nov. 8, 9-4pm. 400 M St and 100 D St. Weekend craft fairs presented by the La Grange War Memorial Building and the La Grange/Hawk Springs Homemakers. Concessions at both locations. Table fee $25 for the first table and $15 for each additional table, up to 3 tables. Free. Info: La Grange War Memorial Building: Peggy Oedekoven 307-871-6504, peggyoedekoven@ gmail.com. La Grange/Hawk Springs Homemakers: Lynette Bye 307-575-9317, lagrangehomemakers@yahoo.com.

NOVEMBER 15

Wyo Brick Fest: 9am-5pm. LaGrange Memorial Building/LaGrange Community Building, 403 M St. LEGO and other toy brick vendors building competitions for youth and adults. Cool LEGO displays/LEGO jewelry. LEGO Brick pits for kids. Snacks and a lot of fun! Free admission and parking. Info: Linnea, linnea.dix@gmail.com or Peggy, peggyoedekoven@gmail.com.

MEDICINE BOW

ONGOI N G

Museum and Gift Shop: 8:30am-4:30pm. 405 Lincoln Highway. Info: 307-379-2383.

RAWLINS

NOVEMBER 28-29

Blue Plaid Friday & Small Business Saturday: 8am-11pm. Downtown Rawlins. By shopping in downtown Rawlins on these days you are giving back to the community. Local businesses have great appreciation of those who support them every day, especially on Blue Plaid Friday and Small Business Saturday. Free. Info: 307-328-2099, downtown@rawlinswy.gov.

NOVEMBER 28-DECEMBER 24

‘Tis the Season: 9am-11pm. Downtown Rawlins. ‘Tis the Season features activities in business and around the community. This traditionally includes business raffles and open houses, Breakfast with Santa, the Starlight Christmas Parade, Frosty Family Walk and so much more! Free. Info: 307-328-2099, downtown@rawlinswy.gov.

SINCLAIR

NOVEMBER 21-22

Light the Night!: 6:30pm. Join us for a parade followed by the lighting of the town Christmas Tree. Afterwards there will be Christmas carolers, free hot cocoa and cookies. Santa will be on-site to chat with the kids and give out candy canes. There will be a big bonfire at Washington Park to keep attendees warm. We will start our 2-day Annual Fall Holiday Craft Fair beginning on Friday night after the parade until about 9pm and then again the following morning from 9am-12pm. Free. Info: Monte Thayer, 307-321-8694.

02 | NORTHEAST

BIG HORN

NOVEMBER 14

Fall into Art: Remington’s West in Black and White with Michael Grauer: 5-8pm. The Brinton Museum, 239 Brinton Rd. We will host a lecture by Michael Grauer, a noted author and expert on the history and culture of the American West. In this presentation, he will explore the life and artwork of Frederic Remington, offering insights into the artist’s impact on the visual narrative of the American West. Event is free. Cash bar and optional dinner are available. Info: bit.ly/BrintonMuseum-RemingtonsWest.

BUFFALO

THURSDAYS

Bluegrass Jam Session: 6:30pm. Occidental Saloon. Free. Info: 307-684-0451.

GILLETTE

THIRD WEEK OF EVERY MONTH

Open Mic Nite: 6-9pm. Thu. or Fri. depending on the schedule. Frontier Auto Museum. Free. All musicians are welcome. We supply the stage, mic and speakers. Bring your voice and/or instrument for an evening under the neon lights. Upcoming dates will be posted on facebook.com/frontierauto. Info: Ryan Swanson, 307-686-5667, relics@frontierauto.net.

HULETT

TUESDAYS

Children’s Storytime: 10:30-11:30am. Hulett Library. Info: 307-467-5676.

MONDAY-THURSDAY

5 Mile Walking Exercise Class: 4:45-6pm. Hulett Library. Info: 307-467-5676.

MONDAY-FRIDAY

Senior Exercise Class: 9-10am. Hulett Library. Info: 307-467-5676.

ONGOING

Hulett Museum and Art Gallery: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm. Sat. 12-4pm. Free. Info: 307-467-5292.

MOORCROFT

WEDNESDAYS

Moorcroft Branch Library Activities: 10am storytime, 4pm afterschool craft, 7pm AA meetings. Please use the downstairs entrance. Info: 307-756-3232.

THIRD THURSDAY OF MONTH

Adult Book Club: 1pm. Moorcroft Branch Library. New book each month. Stop by the library for your copy. Info: 307-756-3232.

MONDAY-FRIDAY

West Texas Trail Museum: 9am-5pm. Info: 307-756-9300.

NEWCASTLE

THIRD SATURDAYS

Weston County Democrats: 2pm. Weston County Library. Info: 307-941-1822, weston.wyodems.net.

FRIDAYS

Bingo: 7:30pm. VFW Hall. Free.

SECOND AND FOURTH WEDNESDAYS

Gigi’s Closet: 9am-1:30pm. First United Methodist Church. Gently loved clothing available for babies to adults. Info: 307-746-4119.

SHERIDAN

NOVEMBER 1

Community-Wide Día de los Muertos Celebration: WYO Performing Arts & Education Center. Experience the color and energy of Día de los Muertos beginning with a free screening of “The Book of Life” at 2pm. Children's activities begin at 3:30pm. Festive face painting, lively DJ sets and dancing start at 4:30pm. Food trucks are on-site. The night peaks with Grammy Award–winning Villalobos Brothers igniting the stage. Free. Info: wyotheater.com, 307-672-9084. Villalobos Brothers Concert: 7pm. WYO Performing Arts and Education Center, 42 N Main St. Celebrate Día de los Muertos in vibrant style with the Villalobos Brothers, one of today's leading contemporary Mexican ensembles. These classically trained violinists blend son jarocho, jazz, rock and classical traditions to create an electrifying and deeply moving sound. $30 for adults; $26 for seniors and military; $20 for students. Info: wyotheater.com/ event/villalobos-brothers.

NOVEMBER 6

Artist Talk and Opening Reception with Mark Earnhart: 4pm. Whitney Center for the Arts, 1 Whitney Way. Join Sheridan College for an artist talk and opening reception with Mark Earnhart. Free. Info: bit.ly/ SheridanCollege-MarkEarnhart.

NOVEMBER 7

SALT Contemporary Dance Company Performance: 7pm. Whitney Center for the Arts, 1 Whitney Way. Join Sheridan College for a captivating performance by SALT Contemporary Dance Company. Tickets range from $10-$30. Info: bit.ly/SheridanCollege-SALT.

NOVEMBER 16 AND 23

Sheridan College Concerts: 4pm both days. Whitney Center for the Arts, 1 Whitney Way. A variety of free performances are scheduled throughout the month of November including a chamber music concert on Nov. 16, and Sheridan College Symphony Orchestra concert on Nov. 23. Free. Info: sheridan.edu/academics/arts.

NOVEMBER 21-22

Sheridan College Theater

Production: Nov. 21, 7pm, Nov. 22, 2pm. WYO Performing Arts and Education Center, 42 N Main St. Join Sheridan College for the fall production of the Sheridan College Theater. Program details and ticket prices will be available closer to the date. Info: bit.ly/SheridanCollege-Theater.

NOVEMBER 22

Holiday Decorating at the Trail End State Historic Site: 9am. Trail End Historic Site Mansion, 400 Clarendon Ave. Join the Trail End Guilds as they decorate for the holiday season. Enjoy lunch provided by the Trail End Guilds. Free. RSVP to teguilds@gmail.com.

NOVEMBER 28

30th Annual Christmas Stroll: All day event. Downtown Sheridan. Sheridan’s 30th annual Christmas Stroll event, the regionally acclaimed kickoff to the Christmas season in Historic Downtown. Holiday decorations and lights, Christmas shopping and everyone’s search for winning Stroll button numbers. Free. Info: Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce, 307-672-2485.

SATURDAYS

Landon’s Farmer’s Market: 10am. Landon’s Greenhouse, 505 College Meadows Dr. Info: 307-672-8340.

SUNDANCE

FOURTH THURSDAY OF THE MONTH

Lunch Brunch Book Club: 11:30am. Crook County Library. Join us for an adult book discussion. Free. Info: Shannon, 307-283-1008.

WEDNESDAYS

Storytime: 10:30am. Crook County Public Library. Info: Tonia, 307-283-1008.

UPTON

SECOND TUESDAYS

Veteran Breakfast: 8am.

Upton Senior Center. Free. Info: Gary Barnes, 307-468-9251.

FIRST AND THIRD WEDNESDAYS

Bingo at Senior Center: 6:30pm. $10 for 10 cards. Info: 307-468-9262.

03|NORTHWEST

CODY

MONDAY-SATURDAY

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

DUBOIS

THURSDAYS

Family Story Time: 11:30am. Dubois Branch Library. Free. Songs, stories and crafts for ages birth to 5 years. Older siblings are welcome to join the fun. Stay and play in the Children’s Library after story time. Info: 307-455-2992.

THIRD WEDNESDAYS

Wyoming Health Fairs Monthly Wellness Screen/Blood Draw: 7:30-10am. Dubois Medical Clinic. Appointments encouraged. Info: 307-455-2516, whf.as.me/dubois.

GREYBULL

SECOND SATURDAYS

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

LANDER

NOVEMBER 15

Christmas Stocking Party: 1-3pm. Pioneer Museum, 1443 W Main St. We are hosting a sew-your-own Christmas Stocking party! Come and learn to hand sew your very own Christmas stocking. Light refreshments provided. Must be comfortable with hand sewing, though one can be a beginner. Cost per person TBA, limited enrollment. Info: 307-332-3339.

SATURDAYS

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

RIVERTON

WEDNESDAYS

Acoustic Music Jam: 6:30-8:30pm. Holiday Inn Convention Center. Free. Join in or listen as musicians and dancers perform. Info: 307-856-8100.

PreK Tales & Tunes: 10:30am. Riverton Branch Library. Ages 3-5. Free. Info: 307-856-3556.

THURSDAYS

Toddler Move & Groove: 10:30am. Riverton Branch Library. Ages birth to 2 years. Free. Info: 307-856-3556.

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

MEETEETSE

MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS Yoga: 10:30am. Meeteetse Recreation District. Info: 307-899-2698, meetrec.org.

MONDAYS

Toddler Storytime: After school. Meeteetse Library. All kids grades 1+ not in school. Legos, board games, crafts, stories, songs and more. Info: 307-868-2248.

POWELL

TUESDAY-FRIDAY

SUBMIT AN EVENT

Send events occurring in December by

NOVEMBER

15!

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

Photos are always welcome.

Homesteader Museum: 10am-4pm. Private tours or visits available. Info: 307-754-9481, homesteader@parkcounty-wy.gov.

THERMOPOLIS

SECOND SATURDAYS

Great Until 8!: 4-8pm. This event showcases the businesses who are staying open until 8pm or later in town. Shop after 5pm and enter in for a chance to win $100 gift certificates valid at the business with the winning receipt. Info: 917-589-7852, mainstreetthermopolis@gmail.com.

04 | SOUTHWEST

LYMAN

THURSDAYS

Storytime: 11am. Lyman Branch Library. All ages welcome. Free. Info: 307-787-6556, uintalibrary.org.

Look for more events at wyomingrea.org/news.

QUESTIONS & SUBMISSIONS:  wren@ wyomingrea.org  [307] 286-8140  214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001

wyomingrea.org/ wren-submissions

MOUNTAIN

VIEW

MONDAYS

Cub Scout Pack 7798 Meeting: 3:45pm. Presbyterian Church on 3rd Street. We are always accepting new boys who are in grades 1-5. Info: MarNae, 307-677-2566.

WEDNESDAYS

Storytime: 11am. Uinta County Library. Info: 307-782-3161.

ONGOING

Community Classes: Valley Learning Center. Fitness, computer, workforce and kids’ classes are available. Times and prices vary. Info: 307-782-6401, valleylearningcenter.coursestorm.com.

SPOOKTACULAR SKIDDOO

FOR SALE

NEED A NEW FLOOR? Local Wy Ranch gal offering, free estimates. Wood, LVP, Carpet & Tile. Let us come to you! Schafer Carpet Sales & Service, Sturgis, 605-218-0855.

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE MATERIALS. When church/government unite, enforcing Sunday law, the mark of the Beast is here! Don’t be deceived, be informed! Leave mailing address only. TBSM, PO Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540, tbsmads@yahoo.com, 1-888-211-1715.

WANTED

We Pay Cash For Mineral & Oil/Gas Interests producing & nonproducing. 800-733-8122.

WANTED CJ or Wrangler reasonably priced. Any condition but rusted. 800-316-5337.

Frontier Auto Museum Looking For Oil Company Gas Pumps, Globes And Signs. Also looking for general antiques for our antique shop. Please go to our website FrontierAutoMuseum. com. Located in Gillette WY, our passion is to preserve Wyoming history and the nostalgia of the past, especially Parco, Sinclair, Frontier, Husky and any car dealership along with all brands. We are also always looking for neon motel or store signs, WY license plates and WY highway signs and State Park signs. Please call Jeff Wandler 307-680-8647 wandlerfrontier@gmail.com or daughter Briana Brewer

relics@frontierauto.net.

TheHaveEyes It

So much in life depends

Sunrise is a bit later these early fall mornings, so I won’t be donning my U-dub sun brim and taking my cup of tea to the patio. My husband switches on the hanging fixture over our breakfast table. I look up at the cold, artificial sun. Four bare bulbs are evident when I gaze directly into the light source. Not as inspiring as a summer sunrise, for sure. When I stand to clear the table and glance back, the amber and clear cutglass pieces of the shade distribute electric rays in a beautiful pattern, assuring me it was worth each dollar we spent for the kitchen chandelier.

Beautiful or stark? It all depends on your point of view.

An hour later Mother Nature’s light rises in the sky illuminating our neighborhood. I sit down for a second cup of tea. Across the field there are trees lining the entrance to our subdivision, alternating cottonwood and spruce. The gold leaves, flanked by the dark green, are more vibrant than in previous years. But I don’t see branches and leaves, I see bridesmaids’ dresses hanging from the top of a broad door 1,000 miles away in Sophia’s Bridal Shop in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Their freshly pressed skirts billow and shine. The bride, my future sister-in-law, already has her thenfashionable, full-length, white tulle

and lace, puffy-skirted gown. She and the three of us bridesmaids have been through every option on the shopkeeper’s racks looking for our wedding vestments in the recently unpacked, wrinkled offerings. Nothing caught our eye as the saying goes. We must have walked by these ready-to-be-delivered dresses on our way into to the show room. They were just what we were looking for, and yet we hadn’t seen them. Our focus just wasn’t wide enough.

I gather my keys and purse and glance out the window to check weather the old-fashioned way. Across the street is a new gray and stone house. I see the garage and, parked next to it, a camper, a trailer and a large pickup truck. Sadly, the black peaks of the roof obliterate the view of Mount Jelm we enjoyed before these neighbors built their dream home. I shift my gaze to the left and am rewarded by a brilliant red-leafed maple tree they planted a year ago. Ours didn’t survive its first Wyoming winter, but theirs has spread eagerly. There is no obstruction between our front porch and its beauty. I am grateful every day of autumn for its cheerful color.

I pick up my mat and am off to a beginner yoga class dressed in black leggings and a chartreuse, clinging top. I’m a sight to see if viewers’

eyes aren’t occupied elsewhere. Our instructor demonstrates, encouraging us that if we persevere our bodies will twist into pretzel shapes as hers does with seeming ease. “Twist,” she coaxes. “Choose a spot in the room to focus on. Your body will follow your eyes.” I don’t become a pretzel, but I am surprised that with this simple adjustment of my eyes my muscles respond.

As I turn into our driveway, I press the button to open the garage door. When it’s half-way up I see an empty spot where my husband parks his car. Although he has only gone to the grocery, some mood elevator in my heart drops a floor in disappointment at his absence. A gust of wind causes the overgrown Hollyhocks he planted in the spring to wave a greeting that catches my attention. Instead of driving directly into the garage, I pause, foot on the brake, and watch purple, pink and yellow flowers perform a dance. And I smile. So much in life depends on one’s point of view. W

Celeste Kobulnicky resides in Laramie and is the author of three novels under the pseudonym Rose Mary Long. She is a member of Prairie Sage Writers and Wyoming Writers, Inc.

TISSUEPUMPKINSPAINTED

This project works best with smaller pumpkins and mini pumpkins. The only other materials you need are glue, paint brushes, a paper plate or bowl, and tissue paper!

INSTRUCTIONS

Cut or tear the tissue paper into small pieces. The more colors you have, the better.

Pour some glue into the bowl or plate.

Have your kids paint a layer of glue all over their pumpkins, then cover the pumpkins with pieces of tissue paper.

If you would like, especially if the tissue paper isn’t lying flat on the pumpkin, paint an additional layer of glue over the tissue paper layer.

Then just let the pumpkins dry, and help your kids find the perfect place to display them for the season!