Wyoming Rural Electric News May 2023

ADAPTABILITY BASIN ELECTRIC

POWERING THROUGH WHATEVER COMES YOUR WAY

Each day brings its own challenges, and Basin Electric will help you power through all of them. We have the strength and versatility to adapt so you can keep your operation running, your business doors open, and your family safe and sound. Reliable Energy for Our Way of Life.

WHITE HOUSE REGULATIONS DO NOT MAKE SENSE

With permission from my friend Dennis Sun, publisher of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup, who also writes for Cowboy State Daily, I’m borrowing portions of his recent column, including the title of my column. Both columns address the fact that many bureaucrats in the Biden administration, and in fact the president himself, talk a great game when addressing the importance of, and support for, rural America and the millions of dollars available through various programs to support rural America, be it agriculture or rural electric cooperatives, yet federal agencies continue to, in Dennis’s words “pull the rug out from under us with more unnecessary regulations.”

Dennis goes on to point out various inconsistencies of what is said and what is being proposed by the Biden administration and various federal agencies. For instance, where does the majority of our country’s energy (oil and gas, coal, uranium) come from? The answer is rural America. Yet the moratorium on drilling on federal lands and the “war on coal” have a direct impact on these rural areas. Wanting to mandate electric vehicles? Where do all the rare earth minerals come from for the EVs? The answer is China, and to some extent Africa and Russia, but they could come from the United States. More specifically, they could come from rural America, and even more specifically, Wyoming, yet permitting and regulations have made this almost impossible.

In March many of your rural electric cooperative directors and employees attended the annual meeting of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association where we saw a video of

President Biden talking about the importance of rural America and what his administration is doing to support the “fly-over states.”

In April many of the same co-op directors and employees went to D.C. to visit with our Congressional Delegation to discuss these various issues. Prior to our meetings with the delegation, we heard from the Department of Energy (DOE) Assistant Secretary, again talking about the importance of and support for rural America, yet the DOE had recently issued proposed regulations on increasing the efficiency of electric utility transformers, while ignoring the fact that we can’t even get transformers, due to the supply chain issues.

Dennis and I could come up with several more instances where the administration says one thing (support for and importance of rural America) and then the various bureaucracies – BLM, Forest Service, DOE, Interior, etc. – act in contradiction to these statements.

I know this sounds political but really, it’s common sense and part of the Code of the West that says, “When you make a promise keep it.”

If you want to support rural America, don’t take actions contrary to the Code of the West. It just doesn’t make sense.

SHAWN TAYLOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

POWER AT THE TOWER

New Year, New Pole

BY HAYDEN JOHNSTON SUNDANCE, WYOMING

THE WREN MAGAZINE WYOMING RURAL ELECTRIC NEWS

The official publication of the Wyoming Rural Electric Association

The WREN Magazine, Wyoming Rural Electric News, volume 69, number 4, May 2023 (ISSN 1098-2876) is published monthly except for January for $22 per year by Linden Press, Inc., Periodicals postage paid at Cheyenne, WY (original entry office) and at additional mailing offices.

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 41,346 for 11 months ending September 2022.

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.

— Editorial Team —

Maggie York

Alison Quinn

Becky Freismuth

— Design Team — Dixie Lira

David Merkley

Shawna Phillips

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

High West Energy, Pine Bluffs –Michael Lerwick, President Big Horn REC, Basin –John Joyce, Vice President

Wheatland REA, Wheatland –Sandra Hranchak, Secretary/Treasurer

Basin Electric, Bismarck, ND – Paul Baker

Bridger Valley Electric, Mountain View – Ruth Rees

Carbon Power, Saratoga – Kenny Curry

Garland Light & Power, Powell – Scott Smith

High Plains Power, Riverton – Brett Gardner

Lower Valley Energy, Afton – Scott Anderson

Niobrara Electric, Lusk – J.D. Wasserburger Powder River Energy, Sundance – Mike Lohse Wyrulec Company, Torrington – Dewey Hageman

Deseret Power, South Jordan, UT – Gary Nix Tri-State G&T, Westminster, CO – Julie Kilty

SUBSCRIPTION RATES

$22 per year, Single copies $2 each

ADVERTISING

To purchase call (307) 996-6552.

OFFICE OF WREN OWNER 2312 Carey Ave., Cheyenne, WY 82001

SEND ADDRESS CHANGES AND CORRESPONDENCE TO PUBLISHER AT WREN Magazine • 214 West Lincolnway, Suite 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001, [307] 286-8140 wren@wyomingrea.org

POSTMASTER

— Send address changes to — The WREN Magazine, Wyoming Rural Electric News, c/o Linden Press, Inc., 121 E Mountain Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524, [970] 221-3232. Include 3-digit co-op code.

Ifyou’re anything like my dad, you give your family everything. Your name, your time, your values — the people in your life know they can depend on you for practically anything. In exchange for imparting all of this energy and experience, you expect nothing in return.

e point? You deserve to treat yourself once in a while. You do so much for the people you care about. Now it’s time to focus on you for just a few minutes. at’s where the Men’s Due Volta Watch comes in. is astonishing innovation provides a digital readout that’s powered by a precise quartz engine, combining both analog and digital timekeeping.

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NORSE BY NORSEWEST?

Embrace your Scandinavian side with a 7" blade

If you looked out your window a thousand years ago and saw a fleet of Viking longships coming your way,you knew you were in trouble. For roughly two centuries, the Vikings voyaged, raided and pillaged wherever they pleased. As expert sailors and navigators, they reached as far from Scandinavia as Iran, Constantinople, North Africa and the New World in their quest to expand their kingdom.

A mini sword. Too organized and too aggressive, no one stood in a Viking’s way. That’s exactly the message that our Viking Blade sends. Crafted from Damascus steel with brass inlay, this 12" full-tang knife is essentially a mini sword. Paired with its hand-tooled leather sheath, this knife belongs in the collection of any avid aficionado.

Join more than 322,000 sharp people who collect stauer knives

The steel of legend. For centuries, a Damascus steel blade was instantly recognizable and commanded respect. Renowned for its sharp edge, beauty and resistance to shattering, Damascus steel was the stuff of legend. While the original process has been lost to the ages, modern bladesmiths have been able to re-create Damascus steel to create the best blades imaginable.

Sure to impress, naturally. Combining natural strength and natural wonder at a price that’s hard to beat, the Viking Blade is a study in Damascus steel that’s sure to impress. And should you ever find yourself facing a Viking horde, a flash of this knife will show that you’re not to be messed with.

Don’t delay: Order within the next week and we’ll offer this blade to you for just $99, a savings of $200! That’s the best bang for your buck we can possibly offer: our Stauer® Impossible Price. Get your hands on one of the fastest-selling knives in our company’s history today.

Knife Specifications:

• 12" overall length. 7" Damascus full-tang blade

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Wyoming Linemen Recognized

GOVERNOR MARK GORDON JOINED COOPERATIVE CREWS IN CHEYENNE TO SIGN A PROCLAMATION TO MARK APRIL 10 AS LINEMAN APPRECIATION DAY.

Crews from Powder River Energy Corporation, Carbon Power & Light, Niobrara Electric Association, High Plains Power and High West Energy made their way to Cheyenne for the ceremony.

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE MCCULLAGH

ENERGY EFFICIENCY FOR BETTER BUILDINGS

Whether your home or business, the buildings you enter daily consist of several layers that create one building envelope, or shell. The envelope begins with the foundation in the ground and ends with the roof, and includes everything in between such as walls, windows and doors. To save energy and maintain comfort, an envelope should limit the transfer of heat in or out of the building. Improve your building envelope by applying weatherization best practices.

+ AIR SEAL CRACKS AND HOLES

Caulking and weatherstripping are cost-efficient air-sealing techniques that help maintain a comfortable temperature in your space. Air-seal gaps around windows, doors, electrical outlets, and other wall or ceiling penetrations to reduce drafts. Weatherstripping around the interior of door frames and window sashes will also limit drafts in these areas and improve the energy efficiency of your home.

+ ENSURE ADEQUATE INSULATION

One of the best ways to reduce your energy bills and increase the comfort of your home is by ensuring adequate and effective insulation in your home. The Department of Energy recommends that a home have 12 to 16 inches of attic insulation. However, not all insulation has the same effectiveness for energy efficiency, and as insulation ages that effectiveness declines. There are also several methods for insulation depending on where you live and the part of your home you are insulating (walls, crawlspace, attic, etc.) so it’s best to contact a local certified contractor. Check your local building codes for requirements.

+ RESEARCH INCOME-QUALIFED PROGRAMS

Some income-qualified programs provide air sealing and insulation, along with making sure your home is safe, if you have combustion appliances like a gas furnace or water heater. Certain programs even cover up to 80% of the median area income and provide these improvements at no cost to the homeowner and in many cases renters as well.

To learn more about rebates and incentives for electrification programs, contact your local co-op or public power district. Visit us at www.tristate.coop/electrify-and-save

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

Updates From Your Co-ops

HERE ARE SOME RECENT UPDATES ON WHAT’S HAPPENING AT OUR LOCAL COOPERATIVES THROUGHOUT THE STATE. AS A MEMBER-OWNER, WE HOPE YOU STAY ENGAGED IN YOUR LOCAL COOPERATIVE NEWS AND ATTEND THEIR LOCAL MEETINGS!

MAR 30

Wyrulec Company, whose headquarters are in Torrington, held their 87th annual meeting at the Goshen County Fairgrounds, with approximately 300 people attending.

Members listening to guest speaker Andy Schwab, ag broadcaster from the Northern Ag Radio Network.

Guest speaker Lyle Myler from US Bureau of Reclamation spoke to the membership.

Mobility issues affect over 1 in 5 Americans. These individuals, and their loved ones, know how decreased mobility can result in loss of independence, pain and falling hazards. They are often stuck at home, missing out on a variety of activities, in a vicious cycle that diminishes their quality of life. In the past, mobility devices like scooters and power chairs were too heavy and bulky to transport easily. Now, carbon fiber material invented for the aerospace program has been used to create the ultimate mobility device. It’s called the Journey Air Elite … and there’s nothing else like it on earth. At only 26 pounds, the Journey Air Elite combines lightweight portability with world class performance. Its simple to use joystick and powerful dual-motor drive system enables you to zip around quickly and safely. It’s easy to maneuver, never tips, fits easily through doorways, and can go right up to a table or desk.

Once you are done, just one pull on the seat handle folds it up. There’s a folddown back to make it even easier to stow and store. It features flat-free tires and rear anti-tippers for added convenience and safety.

Just imagine how this chair can

improve your life and make it easier for loved ones and caregivers to accompany you to activities and events you would have missed in the past. Don’t spend another day stuck at home. Call today, and a helpful, knowledgeable consultant will help you get a Journey Air Elite of your very own. Don’t wait – call now!

•

•

• 8-mile range on a single charge

• Perfect for dining, shopping, sightseeing and lots more!

• Foldable for easy storage and transport

just 26 pounds, only one folding mobility chair has the power to change your life.

May is Electrical Safety Month

FROM SAFEELECTRICITY.ORG

KEEP THESE TIPS IN MIND TO KEEP YOUR HOME ELECTRICALLY SAFE THIS SEASON, FROM BIG HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS TO HOUSE CHORES OR YARD WORK.

1.

PLUG INTO GFCI OUTLETS

When using power tools, make sure they are plugged into outlets equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs).

2 .

LET IT GO

Check extension cords before each use for frays and tears. When your cords start to

3.

LOOK UP BEFORE YOU LIFT

Always look up to ensure you are not near power lines before raising a ladder into the air.

4.

DON’T OVERLOAD OUTLETS

Plugging too many things in by using extension cords, power strips and multi-outlet converters can overload and overheat a circuit.

5.

PLANT THE RIGHT TREE IN THE RIGHT PLACE

A newly planted tree could one day be too tall and interfere with overhead power lines. Tall-growing trees should be planted at least 45 feet away from power lines.

6.

CALL BEFORE YOU DIG

You never know what’s below your feet, so call 8-1-1 at least two to three days prior to digging in.

7.

TALK TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT ELECTRICAL SAFETY

All members of your household should have some knowledge of electrical safety. Teach your kids the basics early!

KEEPING KNOWLEDGE, TRAINING AND WORKFORCE IN WYOMING

WYOMING IS A TECHNOLOGY STATE

BY MAGGIE YORK

Most Wyomingites can agree on a few key reasons why we love this state –the land, the space, the independence. In a lot of ways, we’re traditionalists. We have deep roots; we’re proud of who we are and the dirt we grew up in. So when we’re constantly being confronted with new things – new ideas, technologies, sources of energy – it can make us uncomfortable. But, in order to maintain what we love, our vast landscapes and unwavering independence, we have to continue challenging ourselves to open our minds and grow.

THIS IS WHAT WILL KEEP OUR STATE MOVING FORWARD.

Here’s where technology comes in. We can use technology and innovation to our advantage and lead this charge.

That’s how Matt Fields and his wife Hannah, coaches of the Circuit Breakers 4-H Robotics program, see it. “We can take the state and move it towards the technology future,” Fields said. “But to do that, we have to prepare our current youth for a technology future.”

You are probably familiar with 4-H, primarily in the agriculture realm, but you may not be as familiar with programs outside of kids showing their pigs and heifers at the fair.

The Fieldses are leading two Laramie County 4-H robotics teams who qualified for world competitions in April and May. “We can utilize 4-H, which is readily accepted throughout all the agriculture community in Wyoming. It’s a huge conduit into pretty much any community within Wyoming.”

This program is currently serving as a pilot program, which the Fieldses hope to recreate in other Wyoming counties very soon. “Our teams are actually growing, which is great and we’re increasing our presence within Laramie County,” Fields said. The goal is to prove the Circuit Breakers 4-H robotics program works, create a syllabus and then push it throughout the rest of the state. The Fieldses are currently introducing this idea to high schools and other programs throughout the state, as well as other 4-H groups, to try to get all of them interested.

“What we want to do is take these kids and turn them into innovators, technology-knowledgeable people,” Fields said. “They can stay in Wyoming, they can work within Wyoming, and they can innovate within Wyoming, benefiting the culture but also benefiting the economic basis of Wyoming.”

Cultivating a Space for Makers

WHILE IT ISN’T NEW TO HEAR THAT WYOMING HAS A VAST ARRAY OF ENERGY INDUSTRIES, AND THAT WYOMING HAS TAKEN AN ACTIVE APPROACH TO DIVERSIFYING OUR ENERGY PORTFOLIO, FIELDS ARGUES THAT WE HAVEN’T REACHED OUR FULL POTENTIAL, YET.

“We have the ability to be a technology state by having relatively inexpensive land, readily available power, a lot of fiber within the state, a lot of interest from the state, the governor’s office and the legislative body, and interest in moving things forward to benefit the state. We believe there’s a lot of untapped potential in Wyoming’s youth that are in smaller towns,” Fields said.

First Tech Challenge (FTC) robot.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MATT AND HANNAH FIELDS

While youth throughout Wyoming are very creative self-starters, the challenge can sometimes be creating an interest in technology. One way to do this is through 4-H’s Showcase Showdown which allows youth to explore various industries through contests, workshops, tours and activities over the course of three days at the University of Wyoming in Laramie.

One of these programs is called sumo bots, where students compete with another robot in a four-foot ring with a goal to force out the other bot. “It’s like ‘BattleBots’ to an extent,” Fields said. “Well, if you want to get a ranch kid excited about technology, tell them

that he’s going to be building a BattleBot and you can pull them into this fun environment. And then, now that [the kids] realize it’s not that difficult to get into technology and start to do the basics of programming and some engineering, we’re going to introduce [them] now to the next level.”

Once kids have gained an interest in the technology, they can also find community through makerspaces. These creative spaces can be found throughout the state at local libraries, community colleges and other locations, and typically offer a wide array of materials for kids to use to build and interact with other students.

They can oftentimes utilize free 3D printers to create what they need and source affordable materials. “[Kids] can go there, they can print whatever parts they need, they can buy off-theshelf parts, and they can basically put in the solution – a real-world solution,” Fields said.

While the age of kids participating in 4-H programs ranges from age 8 to 18, they ultimately open the door for many opportunities beyond high school. There are grant opportunities that kids can apply for as young as the age of 14, but there’s also a lot already happening through existing Wyoming programs.

WE BELIEVE THERE’S A LOT OF UNTAPPED POTENTIAL IN WYOMING’S YOUTH THAT ARE IN SMALLER TOWNS

First Tech Challenge (FTC) team at World Championships in Houston competing in 1 of 11 matches.

First Tech Challenge (FTC) team at Colorado State Qualifier after winning 1st Alliance in January 2023.

Opening the Door to Future Opportunities

“Gene is interested in how we bring Wyoming ranches into the 21st Century using the latest technology,” Paul Bonifas, director of operations for 9H Research Foundation, explained.

9H Research Foundation focuses primarily on engineering and agricultural projects that utilize technological solutions and teach college students about real-world applications. The Foundation’s overall goal is to prepare young students joining the workforce by giving them applied projects to work on during college, so they are better prepared when interviewing and applying for jobs. Some projects that have been offered to students enrolled at UW include building a smart ranch solar facility to make solar affordable for ranchers, designing a 500KW solar farm, developing a smart ranch series to identify and spray noxious weeds using drone technology.

“Not only do they get that experience, which will help them in their careers, but they also get paid for it,” Bonifas said.

The 9H Research Foundation also provides funding for the Wyoming 4-H robotics teams to compete in national championships. “He’s really excited and wants to work with us because there’s a lot of alignment, a lot of synergy with what we’re doing,” Fields said. “He’s giving the opportunity for young people to advance a technology and really make a difference, not only in the world, but also in their lives.”

“Wyoming’s been good to me,” Humphrey said. Humphrey launched his career with a very successful semiconductor company where he holds multiple patents and, in his retirement, is also co-owner of the 9H Ranch outside of town in Laramie. He has since sold his semiconductor company and now spends the majority of his time working through the Foundation. “Now I have the opportunity to give back to the state and to the university that helped me so much when I was young,” he said.

The 9H Foundation currently has 150 students participating in various competitions, challenges, internships, senior design projects and more. “We have been directly involved in helping students get their first jobs out of college, and companies call us on a routine basis to verify our intern’s work with the Foundation,” Bonifas said. “The idea is to bridge the gap between University studies and real-world careers. The best way we know how to do this is to stimulate the students with projects that pique their interest, fuel their problem-solving skills, and fill their pockets with funds.”

GENE HUMPHREY, FOUNDER OF 9H RESEARCH FOUNDATION, IS HELPING CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WITHIN WYOMING, WORKING CLOSELY WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING.

WE HAVE BEEN DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN HELPING STUDENTS GET THEIR FIRST JOBS OUT OF COLLEGE

PHOTO COURTESY

OF 9H RESEARCH

Moving Forward Alongside Wyoming’s Cooperatives

Some opportunities for growth through technology are already well underway with Wyoming’s co-ops, including being able to monitor a substation remotely and gathering data points off substation equipment. Engaging the younger generation creates space for ideal candidates to help these companies to innovate and to move forward.

their efforts I’ll admit I didn’t really connect 4-H with robotics, but after talking with him I can see it. Because we’ve always been a supporter of 4-H I told him that not only would we make a contribution to the program, but we’ve got this great magazine we could use to highlight the program as well.”

Fields used to work for Powder River Energy Corporation out of Sundance. “Wyoming’s cooperatives, and cooperatives in general, are an amazing setup. It gave me a lot of insight into the co-ops, how they operate and the mission of the co-ops themselves. These youth as innovators, when they start looking and coming into companies, whether it’s PRECorp or it’s others, they are going to look at what needs to happen within these cooperatives to make them more efficient.”

“They’re going to be savvier on cloud technology, your 5G or 6G technology as it moves forward, programming, micro apps for your iPhone, Android or other devices, and basically all the components that are needed for the new future, the technology future of any energy company,” Fields said. “You need to know how to operate with these environments. By getting our youth ready, we make Wyoming very attractive. These young people are familiar with this, they understand this, they can help create a future for Wyoming’s economic basis.”

Wyoming Rural Electric Association Executive Director Shawn Taylor was willing to help support Matt’s program from the very beginning. “When Matt approached me about WREA supporting

“I think there’s a lot of synergy between this and what [WREA] is trying to put forward, and the communities that are in Wyoming just having that opportunity to see what we’re doing here. And knowing that, hey, we could do this within our own community. That, to us, is really our goal,” Fields said.

“Because the more people that know about what we’re doing, the more we can expand, the more we can help our Wyoming communities out, the faster we can ultimately change Wyoming’s economy and help move it forward – its youth, its people, everything.” W

THERE IS ALSO GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL COOPERATIVES TO CONTINUE INVESTING IN TECHNOLOGY AND LEARNING HOW TO USE IT TO THEIR ADVANTAGE.

Maggie York is a sixth-generation Wyoming native. She grew up in Lander and has family roots across the state.

Funded by the 9H Foundation, UW Engineering Senior Design students install their panel on a double-axis tracking system.

The 4-H robotics team presented robots and released their Cyber-In-A-Box video challenges at the Cheyenne Library for some members of the Cyber Wyoming Board.

PHOTO COURTESY OF 9H RESEARCH FOUNDATION

PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT AND HANNAH FIELDS

Top row from left to right: Coach Hannah Fields, State of Wyoming Interim CIO Timothy Sheehan, Interim Deputy Director of Enterprise Technology Services Kayla Woods, Executive Director Cyber Wyoming Laura Baker, State Librarian Jamie Markus, State Chief Information Security Officer Aaron Roberts, Coach Matt Fields.

Robotics Group Competitions

FIRST TECH CHALLENGE (FTC)

APRIL

• International competition held in Texas

• Competing with 192 teams from around the world

FIRST LEGO LEAGUE (FLL)

MAY

• International competition held in Arkansas

• Competing with 90 teams from around the world

SUMO BOTS

• Ages 8+

FIRST LEGO LEAGUE (FLL)

• Ages 9-14

• Lego Robots National CSTEM program created in 1989

FIRST TECH CHALLENGE (FTC)

• Ages 13-18

• Students build an actual robot from scratch using various materials of metal, microcomputer, etc.

Makerspaces

WHAT ARE THEY?

Spaces that include a variety of maker equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, soldering irons and even sewing machines.

WHO CAN USE THEM?

These spaces are oftentimes free and are open to kids, adults, and entrepreneurs.

WHERE CAN YOU FIND THEM?

Universities, local community colleges, libraries and more.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Build! People can print parts they need, buy off-theshelf parts, and keep creating and learning.

First Tech Challenge (FTC) team at World Championships in Houston in April 2023.

the world’s lightest mobility scooter with anti-tip technology

Like millions of older Americans, I struggle with mobility. For years, I watched my quality of life slip away, as I was forced to stay home while friends and family took part in activities I’d once enjoyed. I thought I’d made some progress when I got a mobility scooter, but then I realized how hard it was to transport. Taking it apart and putting it back together was like doing a jigsaw puzzle. Once I had it disassembled, I had to try to put all of the pieces in the trunk of a car, go to wherever I was going, and repeat the process in reverse. Travel scooters were easier to transport, but they were uncomfortable and scary to drive, I always felt like I was ready to tip over. Then I found the So LiteTM Scooter. Now there’s nothing that can hold me back.

Years of work by innovative engineers have resulted in a scooter that’s designed with seniors in mind. They created Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that makes it virtually impossible to tip over. If you try to turn too quickly, the scooter automatically slows down to prevent it from tipping over. The battery provides powerful energy at a fraction of the weight of most batteries. With its rugged yet lightweight aluminum frame, the So LiteTM Scooter is the most portable scooter ever—but it can hold up to 275 pounds—yet weighs only 40.8 pounds without the battery!

What’s more, it easily folds up for storage in a car seat, trunk or even on an airplane. It folds in seconds without tools and is safe and reliable. Best of all, it’s designed with your safety in mind, from the newest technology and superior craftsmanship. Why spend another day letting your lack of mobility ruin your quality of life? Call now and find out how you can get a So LiteTM Scooter of your very own.

Please mention code 118067 when ordering.

HOW WYOMING BUMBLE BEES PROTECT AND NURTURE THEIR YOUNG

FINDING SHELTER

Queen bumble bees spend winter underground and emerge in the spring when the flowers start blooming. They forage by collecting nectar and pollen from flowers while searching for a new habitat underground, which is hidden from predators. After a queen finds a suitable underground habitat (like an abandoned mouse den), she will start her colony.

STAYING WARM FEEDING STYLES

The queen builds waxy cups to store her nectar and pollen, and cups where she lays her eggs. She tucks her eggs in by covering them with a wax cap. The babies must be kept warm – the queen keeps them as hot as 90°F, sometimes more than 20°F warmer than the environment! She creates heat by repeatedly squeezing her muscles and pushing her warm body against the developing brood.

After weeks of eating and staying warm (thanks to mom!) the larvae develop into pupae. After about two weeks, the pupae develop into adult bumble bees. The adults chew their way out of the wax cells and emerge. Their development is finished! Adult workers are all females, and they will help their mom, the queen, feed and incubate their baby sisters.

Next, the eggs develop into larvae. Queens can feed their larvae in one of two different ways. Some queens attach waxy pockets to the side of the brood and fill them with pollen for the larvae to eat. These queens are called pocket makers. Pocket makers’ larvae grow together in a shared space and feed on pollen from the pockets. As the larvae grow bigger, the queen pokes holes in the wax cap and feeds them nectar and pollen with her tongue. Other types of queens are called pollen-storers. The larvae of pollenstorers use wax and silk to build their own little rooms. Queen pollen-storers keep food in separate cups away from the larvae. They use this stored pollen and nectar to feed larvae in their separate rooms.

A queen bumble bee can have HUNDREDS OF BABIES (whoa!) that she protects, feeds and keeps warm for weeks, until they are fully developed.

LITTLE WYOMING

Fish Oil Failure Shines Grim Light on

America’s

Memory Crisis

America’s Top Memory M.D. Reveals Why Fish Oil Doesn’t Protect You from Senior Moments – and the #1 Alternative

More than 16 million Americans suffer from age-associated cognitive impairment, and according to nationwide research, these numbers are only rising.

Thankfully, anti-aging specialist and best-selling author Dr. Al Sears says there’s an easy way to banish senior moments and brain fog for good.

It’s a safe, natural compound called DHA – one of the building blocks of your brain. It helps children grow their brains significantly bigger during development. And in adults, it protects brain cells from dying as they get older.

For years, most people thought fish oil was the best available source of DHA…

But industrial fish farming practices have depleted the nutritional content of nearly every fish oil you can buy.

Today, roughly 20 million Americans are wasting their money on fish oils that hardly do anything at all.

And since they think they are addressing the problem, fish oil’s failure has led to America’s memory crisis continuing to grow practically unchecked.

Fortunately, Dr. Sears says, “there’s still hope for seniors. Getting more DHA can make a life-changing difference for your mental clarity, focus, and memory.”

Dr. Sears, a highly-acclaimed, board-certified doctor— who has published more than 500 studies and written four bestselling books — says we should be able to get enough DHA in our diets… but we don’t anymore.

“For thousands of years, fish were a great natural source of DHA. But due to industrial fish farming practices, the fish we eat and the fish oils you see at the store are no longer as nutrient-dense as they once were,” he explains.

DHA is backed by hundreds of studies for supporting razor-sharp focus, extraordinary mental clarity, and a lightning quick memory… especially in seniors.

So, if you’re struggling with focus, mental clarity, or memory as

you get older…

Dr. Sears recommends a different approach.

THE SECRET TO A LASTING MEMORY

Research has shown our paleo ancestors were able to grow bigger and smarter brains by eating foods rich in one ingredient — DHA.

“Our hippocampus thrives off DHA, and grows because of it,” explains Dr. Sears. “Without DHA, our brains would shrink, and our memories would quickly fade.”

A groundbreaking study from the University of Alberta confirmed this. Animals given a diet rich in DHA saw a 29% boost in their hippocampus — the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory. As a result, these animals became smarter.

Another study on more than 1,500 seniors found that those whose brains were deficient in DHA had significantly smaller brains — a characteristic of accelerated aging and a weakened memory.

PEOPLE’S BRAINS ARE SHRINKING AND THEY DON’T EVEN KNOW IT

Dr. Sears uncovered that sometime during the 1990s, fish farmers stopped giving their animals a natural, DHA-rich diet and began feeding them a diet that was 70% vegetarian.

“It became expensive for farmers to feed fish what they’d eat in the wild,” explains Dr. Sears. “But in order to produce DHA, fish need to eat a natural, marine diet, like the one they’d eat in the wild.”

“Since fish farmers are depriving these animals of their natural diet, DHA is almost nonexistent in the oils they produce.”

“And since more than 80% of fish oil comes from farms, it’s no wonder the country is experiencing a memory crisis. Most people’s brains are shrinking and they don’t even know it.”

So, what can people do to improve their memory and brain function most effectively.

Dr. Sears says, “Find a quali-

ty DHA supplement that doesn’t come from a farmed source. That will protect your brain cells and the functions they serve well into old age.”

Dr. Sears and his team worked tirelessly for over two years developing a unique brain-boosting formula called Omega Rejuvenol

It’s made from the most powerful source of DHA in the ocean, squid and krill — two species that cannot be farmed.

According to Dr. Sears, these are the purest and most potent sources of DHA in the world, because they haven’t been tampered with. “Omega Rejuvenol is sourced from the most sustainable fishery in Antarctica. You won’t find this oil in any stores.”

MORE IMPRESSIVE RESULTS

Already, the formula has sold more than 850,000 bottles. And for a good reason, too. Satisfied customers can’t stop raving about the memory-boosting benefits of quality-sourced DHA oil.

“The first time I took it, I was amazed. The brain fog I struggled with for years was gone within 24 hours. The next day, I woke up with the energy and mental clarity of a new man,” says Owen R.

“I remember what it was like before I started taking Omega Rejuvenol… the lack of focus… the dull moods… the slippery memory… but now my mind is as clear as it’s ever been,” says Estelle H.

“My mood and focus are at an

all-time high. I’ve always had trouble concentrating, and now I think I know why,” raves Bernice J. “The difference that Omega Rejuvenol makes couldn’t be more noticeable.”

And 70-year-old Mark K. says, “My focus and memory are back to age-30 levels.”

These are just a handful of the thousands of reviews Dr. Sears receives regularly thanks to his breakthrough memory formula, Omega Rejuvenol

WHERE TO FIND

OMEGA REJUVENOL

To secure bottles of this brain-booster, buyers should contact the Sears Health Hotline at 1-800-319-3009. “It takes time to manufacture these bottles,” says Dr. Sears. “The Hotline allows us to ship the product directly to customers who need it most.”

Dr. Sears feels so strongly about this product he is offering a 100% money-back guarantee on every order. “Send back any used or unused bottles within 90 days and I’ll rush you a refund,” says Dr. Sears.

The Hotline is taking orders for the next 48 hours. After that, the phone number may be shut down to allow for inventory restocking.

Call 1-800-319-3009 to secure your limited supply of Omega Rejuvenol. Readers of this publication immediately qualify for a steep discount, but supplies are limited. To take advantage of this great offer use Promo Code OMWREN523 when you call.

Why the ‘brain fuel’ ingredient in fish oil is slowly drying up.

BY DR. MEGAN BEAVERS

That Goat Was A Gem

To many she may have been just a goat, but to her family she was a beloved pet.

Goats are like clovenhooved dogs that can destroy all your favorite shrubbery in a blink of an eye. But a lot of folks love the mischievous little ruminants. Some people fall on the side of the spectrum where goats surpass many regular livestock animals and become a pet. With pet status, regardless of how exotic and un-mainstream the animal is, the level of dedication by an owner tends to go up.

There was nothing special about the goat named Gemma. She was a rescue from an older gentleman that no longer wanted to be into goats. Some great people happened upon her not really knowing what they were getting into when taking on a goat. She was their Pandora’s box. I first met Gemma after her new family got her. She just needed a checkup and perhaps to see if she had babies inside. The older gentleman had goats of all sorts commingling on his property. The ultrasound was quick and showed that there were no babies in her at the time. She received a clean bill of health and headed back to her new life.

About five months later I received word that Gemma was in labor. I was not as horribly surprised as the owners, since I knew there was a brief window in which I wouldn’t have been able to see the little things with the ultrasound. Apparently, that’s when she came in. But Gemma’s owners were twitterpated with the three surprise additions so they quickly became members of the farm as well.

Gemma became sick for the first time several months after the babies came. Goats will give very subtle signs with any illness. After an exam and some blood work, Gemma was found to be severely anemic from a parasite. The parasite is extremely common in goats and it loves to feed on blood from the intestine. Ultimately, an affected goat will become anemic and that can eventually lead to death. Gemma was

in dire need of more blood while we treated the parasitic infection. I utilized one of my personal goats as the donor for the transfusion, and Gemma received her new blood. It did what it needed to. She felt better and again had the energy to eat and help her body fend off parasites.

Gemma remained healthy for several years. She raised her babies and they got even more goats to add to her herd. She was the head lady in charge, too. And she knew it. But then she went off feed again. Our first assumption was that she had another battle with parasites to overcome. Her dedicated owners again brought her to see me. Surprisingly Gemma was not anemic this time. Her bloodwork was inconclusive but not far from normal. We began treatment for suspected pneumonia as that too is common in goats, especially during winter stress.

The owners took her home. But at home she continued to not eat or show any improvement. Back to the clinic she came. Her blood work continued to show no improvement as well, particularly her blood sugar. It was too high for an anorexic goat. To monitor her glucose and help better facilitate insulin treatment, we placed a human continuous glucose monitor. We also placed an IV catheter to hydrate her and deliver more medications. We continued her treatments and monitoring at home,

yet she continued to not eat well. Soon it became clear we had another complication. Her rumen had become stagnant. The microbes inside that help her digest food had died. She needed another transfusion.

This transfusion was of a different kind: a transfaunation. We needed the rumen fluid from a healthy animal to put into Gemma, which would help repopulate her gut and get her to start digesting and hopefully wanting to eat again. The father of one of my techs happens to own a butcher shop, so off I sent her for a little extra credit. She returned several hours later with many gallons of fresh fluid that had a very healthy population of microbes. We quickly placed fluid in Gemma’s rumen and again Gemma headed home. In the next several days she showed some mild improvement. She was back to being the queen of the herd and happy to have her normal snacks. We thought we were on the upward curve, but sometimes no matter what you do and check and treat, life has other plans.

Gemma passed away. To many she may have been just a goat, but to her family she was a beloved pet. They treasured her and were dedicated to a high level of care to try and save her. She was a gem. W

Dr. Megan Beavers is a veterinarian in Farson and Green River.

Inspires Generations

Rod Smith, who was inducted into the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2022, is modest about his legacy. “There have been several people in my life who were willing to take a chance with me in the quest to build a ranch, and I am grateful to have had their help,” he said. Smith may be humble, but judging from his career, his community involvement, his advocacy and mentorship, and his devotion to his family, it’s clear he’s earned the accolades he’s received.

BY ELISA SHERMAN

Smith began his career by teaching in the agriculture departments of Sheridan College and the University of Wyoming. After a few years, he was able to pursue his true passion—ranching. A Wyoming native, Smith was raised on the Little Powder River north of Gillette, in Campbell County. He’s a fourthgeneration rancher who grew up in a saddle. And so, in 1976, when a friend gave him an opportunity to lease the Davis Ranch in the Little Powder River Valley, he took it.

Not that his love of ranching hasn’t been tested. In 1982, when the lease was up at the Davis Ranch, Smith and his wife, Katie, purchased part of the SY Ranch outside of Moorcroft, Wyoming. On the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame nomination form, Smith’s daughter, Cinnamon Lenhart, said that in Moorcroft they were “snowed in, blown in, and eaten out.” Smith laughed at this and said, “It snowed the first of October, and we were still feeding cattle the first of May.” He described Moorcroft as exposed and windblown. “The only

difference was what direction the wind would blow,” he said. Along with inclement weather, the Smiths held on through the land crash of the 1980s and an infestation of grasshoppers in the mid-1980s that devastated their pastures. Of that time, Smith said, “You got a lot done with your inner self and mental toughness.” And he gives the credit to Katie. “Lucky part was that I had a wife that wanted to do it with me and made it work even when the gravy got a little thin.” Also adding, “The true blessing of the Moorcroft Ranch was

the neighbors and the lifelong friendships that were forged there.”

In 1987, the Smiths had the chance to lease the 60 Bar Ranch, which took the family back to Campbell County and the Little Powder River Valley. This storied 22,000-acre ranch, which began as a homestead in 1888, couldn’t have fallen into better hands. After leasing the ranch for several years, the Smiths formed a partnership with an investor from New York to purchase it. But in 1997, the Smiths became the sole owners, fulfilling a long-held aspiration. Smith helped achieve this dream for his family by thinking outside the box. For three years in the late 1990s, he worked on a Bureau of Land Management land swap, tackling the problem of BLM land tracts mixed in with private ranches. The result was that private ranches like his could be shored up and BLM land made more cohesive and accessible for the general public.

Smith says that the ranch hasn’t changed much in 135 years. The home he and Katie live in is part of the original homestead. Their kitchen is the original homestead cabin. Ranching, on the other hand, has changed. “If we can make it pay, we try it,” he said. At the height of Smith’s career, he ran 1,000 cows and 600 yearlings on 60 Bar. Today he has 400 head, and his son, Merritt, runs a large part of the operation. Merritt and

his family live in their own home on 60 Bar Ranch, and Cinnamon and her family live nearby and ranch on the land that Smith grew up on.

Cinnamon described the 60 Bar Ranch as a “cowboy’s ranch,” and Smith laughed at this too. He said that roughly 80% of the ranch is accessible only on horseback. The ranch work of gathering cows and feeding is all done with horses, which suits Smith just fine. Smith has trained horses his whole life. “The good ones will show you if they want to be your friend. Most horses want to please,” he said. For Smith, a good horse is a horse with a desire to please, intelligence and athleticism. He likes a horse that has a “bottom in ‘im”—one that can go all day and keep going if you’re doing something fun that night.

Even with his busy life on the ranch, Smith volunteered in the community on various boards, and he still makes time to mentor aspiring young ranchers. “People just call and show up,” he said. Smith teaches them his techniques to train horses, cut cows and rope calves. And he’s happy to do it. “If they are willing to learn, I’m willing to teach them.” He himself had to learn the hard way. “When I was coming up, I’d ask the old-timers how they did things, and they’d say, ‘You’ll figure it out.’ The problem with that is when you

are figuring things out for yourself, you develop a lot of bad habits.” He offers his knowledge to help save people time, and that generosity has paid off. He’s been able to watch his protégés grow up; he’s gone to their weddings and other celebrations. “Anything I’ve ever given, I’ve gotten back tenfold.”

Rod Smith is nearing 75 years old, but retirement did not come up in conversation. Whether he is mentoring youth, training horses or working on his ranch, he is up with the sun, doing what needs to be done, and he emphasizes that he has the joy of watching the fifth and sixth generations carry on the legacy. W

Elisa Sherman lives with her family in Fort Collins, Colorado. She has close friends in Wyoming and feels a kinship with its gorgeous mountains and wide-open spaces. A poet and writer, Elisa is grateful for the opportunity to learn more about the people, places and history of Wyoming.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROD SMITH

Rod at a branding in 2022.

The true blessing of the Moorcroft Ranch was the neighbors and the lifelong friendships that were forged there.

SALAD

1 CUP CANNED MANDARIN ORANGES, DRAINED

1 CUP PINEAPPLE CHUNKS, DRAINED

1 CUP SMALL MARSHMALLOWS

1 CUP SHREDDED COCONUT (SWEETENED)

1 CUP SOUR CREAM

Mix together. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 days before serving to blend the flavors.

JUDY ROHDE CENTENNIAL

GRAPE & SHRIMP SALAD

2 CUPS SEEDLESS GREEN GRAPES, HALVED

2 LBS MEDIUM-SIZED COOKED SHRIMP, CUT INTO SMALLER PIECES (IF DESIRED) RUBBED WITH SEAFOOD SEASONING SUCH AS OLD BAY

1 CUP CELERY, CHOPPED

2 CUPS MAYONNAISE SALT AND PEPPER, TO TASTE

Mix together and refrigerate well before serving.

NANCY HENDERSON ALADDIN

Boil white vinegar, vegetable oil, soy sauce and sugar together, and let cool. Melt butter in sauté pan and add slivered almonds, sesame seeds, and crunched ramen. Sauté until browned. Mix cabbage, ramen mixture, and sauce. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

MEGAN CHEBUHAR CENTENNIAL

BOK CHOY SALAD

FOR SALAD, MIX:

1 HEAD BOK CHOY (APPROXIMATELY 2 LBS), CUT INTO SALAD-SIZED PIECES

6 SCALLIONS, CHOPPED

2 PKG RAMEN NOODLES, BROKEN

3/4 CUP SLIVERED ALMONDS, LIGHTLY BROWNED IN MARGARINE

1/2 CUP SUNFLOWER SEEDS

ORIENTAL SALAD 5 CUP SALAD FINGER

UNCLE RICK’S MACARONI SALAD

2 CUPS ELBOW MACARONI

1/4 CUP GREEN OLIVES, SLICED

1/4 CUP BLACK OLIVES, SLICED

1/4 CUP EACH RED, YELLOW AND GREEN PEPPERS

2 TBS ONION, CHOPPED

1 CUP EACH WHITE AND CHEDDAR CHEESES

1 CUP PEPPER JACK CHEESE (OPTIONAL)

1 CUP MAYONNAISE

1 TBS DIJON MUSTARD

Cook macaroni. Rinse, drain and let cool. Chop the peppers, onion and cheese. Sauté the onion and peppers lightly. Mix up all the ingredients with mayonnaise and mustard – add just enough to make it moist. Chill in fridge for a few hours before serving.

STERLING WILSON WHEATLAND

FOR DRESSING, MIX:

1/2 CUP WHITE VINEGAR

1 CUP SUNFLOWER OIL

1 CUP SUGAR

3 TSP SOY SAUCE

Pour over salad when ready to serve.

 wren@wyomingrea.org

 214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001  wyomingrea.org/wren-submissions

Please include your name, hometown and a title.

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.

If you would like your work returned, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

FEATURED EVENT

01 | SOUTHEAST

CENTENNIAL ONGOING

Nici Self Historical Museum: Museum grounds and exhibits open Thu-Mon 12-4p. Free. Info niciselfmuseum.com.

CHUGWATER

JUNE 17

37th Annual Chili Cook-off and Roundup: 9a-8p, Staats Park. Join us for the largest single-day event in the state. Funds raised are invested back into the Chugwater community and help support our local Economic Development Center and Historical Group, local schools, volunteer Fire Department, and Community Center, as well as a new scholarship fund. It is not required to buy tickets online, but we only accept cash at the venue. Tickets cover all day events including all day live entertainment, free chili tasting, lots of fabulous chili, the rodeo and fun for the whole family. Info chugwaterchilicookoff.org, chugwaterchilicookoff@gmail.com.

ENCAMPMENT

JUNE 3

Marion Baker Memorial Shoot: 9a. Info 307-324-3020, wyomingcarboncounty.com.

JUNE 17-18

LELAND SANDERS BOOK SIGNING

CLEARMONT  JUNE 24

The Clearmont Historical Society is pleased to host a book signing for “Passaic, the Forgotten Community in Sheridan County” by Leland Sanders during Clearmont Days.

Clearmont Days will include activities all day in the park. Sanders will be available for the book signing at the community park and also at the Historical Center.

Location: Clearmont Historical Center and Clearmont Park

Cost: Book signing is free to the public. Book will be available for purchase.

For more information call 307-736-2461.

Woodchopper’s Jamboree & Rodeo: 7a-9p. Events start Saturday morning with pancakes at the firehouse followed by a parade through town. Wood chips will fly at the Lions Club Arena when seasoned loggers and brave amateurs compete with chainsaws, axes and handsaws. Join us for hot BBQ and cold beer and then cheer for WRA and local competitors in the afternoon rodeo. Info 307-327-5429, woodchoppersjamboree.org.

JUNE 28

Local Authors Panel: 7p. Grand Encampment Museum. Free. Local authors Candy Moulton, C.J. Box, Linda Johnson, Tim Nichlas, Donna Coulson, and Sharon O’Toole will discuss their work. From researching their subjects, to drawing inspiration from both historical and contemporary events for their writing. Info 307-327-5308, GEMuseum.com.

ONGOING

Grand Encampment Museum: Main Gallery and GEM store open Tue-Sat 10a-4p. Info 307-327-5308.

HAWK SPRINGS

JUNE 14 / JULY 12 / AUGUST 9

Annual Community Hamburger Fries: 5-7p. Hamburgers, hot dogs, homemade salads, desserts, and drinks! The ice cream social will be held on August 9. The Torrington fiddlers will be playing for the event. Adults $7, children 3-12 $3, children under 3 free. This is a non-profit event and all proceeds go back into maintaining the building throughout the year. Info 308-641-9578.

MEDICINE BOW ONGOING

Museum and Gift Shop: Open daily 8:30a-4:30p. 405 Lincoln Highway. Info 307-379-2383.

RAWLINS

JUNE 3

Tribute Concert: 7-10p. Witness the best of the music events in Rawlins; from live music to the tours of artists, there is a lot that the city has in store for you. For classical music lovers, they have classical music shows and concerts, while for the groovers they have concerts in Rawlins to dance your heart out. Info 307-3243020, wyomingcarboncounty.com.

JUNE 22

Music in the Park “Patti Fiasco”: 5:30-9p. Free open air concert in the park. Lots of space to spread out to listen to the featured artist. Food vendors from around Carbon County will open at 5:30p. Music from 7-9p. Bring a chair, bring a cooler, bring a friend. No pets are allowed. Info 307-324-7529, wyomingcarboncounty.com.

JUNE 29

Music in the Park “Jalan Crossland”: 5:30-9p. Free open air concert in the park. Lots of space to spread out to listen to the featured artist. Food vendors from around Carbon County will open at 5:30p. Music from 7-9p. Bring a chair, bring a cooler, bring a friend. No pets are allowed. Info 307-324-7529, wyomingcarboncounty.com.

RIVERSIDE

JUNE 9-10

Tale of Two Cities Disc Golf: Info 307-324-3020, wyomingcarboncounty.com.

SEMINOE

JUNE 23-25

Women Who Hike (Wyoming State Parks Run): Full weekend, 7p June 23 to 2p June 25. This will be a weekend tent camping with canoeing, hiking, and community. Women will take part in a full Leave No Trace Course and leave with that certification! Info 307-3243020, wyomingcarboncounty.com.

WRIGHT

JUNE 15-18

Wright Days: “Taste of Wright” annual fundraiser for the Wright Centennial Museum, 3 on 3 basketball hosted by the Rec Center, Campbell County 4-H Youth Shoot, Kids Fishing Derby and more! Info 307-680-1606.

NORTHEAST

BUFFALO THURSDAYS

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

CLEARMONT

JUNE 24-25

SageRidge Art Workshop: Classes include needle felting, tapestry weaving, 3-D needling, macrame, knitting, wet felting, and for kids: bone painting and plant weaving. Class prices range from $20-$45 per participant. All class supplies included in price. Info Linda sageridgeranchwyo@gmail.com, facebook.com/SageRidge.Mill. Critters.

JULY 21-23

Natural Dying Weekend at SageRidge: Includes personal journals, food, camping site, plant identification, dying, wetfelting and needle felting instruction. Additional surprise uses for plants also included. Class price

is $285/participant and is an allinclusive weekend. All supplies and food are included in price. Info Linda sageridgeranchwyo@ gmail.com, facebook.com/ SageRidge.Mill.Critters.

GILLETTE

ONGOING

New Exhibit on Display at the Rockpile Museum: “My Corner Office: Views and Reflections from the Powder River Basin” featuring photographs of Powder River Basin photographer Alan Nash. Info 307-682-5723, rockpilemuseum.com.

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

HULETT

JUNE 10-11

76th Annual Hulett Rodeo: 1:30p each day. Parade at 10a Saturday. Info 307-467-5929, Hulett Rodeo Facebook page, HulettRodeoWyo.com.

MOORCROFT

JULY 6-9

Jubilee Days: Family fun night, ranch rodeo, car show, chuckwagon breakfast, parade, vendor show, Riverside bronc ride, free barbecue and street dance, Sunday service and concert, and more. Info 307-629-1264, 307-756-9300.

WEDNESDAYS

Moorcroft Branch Library Activities: Storytime 10a. Afterschool Craft 4p. AA meetings 7p. Please use downstairs entrance. Info 307-756-3232.

THIRD THURSDAY OF MONTH

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

NEWCASTLE

FRIDAYS

Bingo: 7:30p. VFW Hall. Free

SECOND AND FOURTH

WEDNESDAYS

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

SUNDANCE

WEDNESDAYS

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

UPTON

FIRST AND THIRD WEDNESDAYS

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

ONGOING

Senior Center Activities: 1113 2nd St. Lunch is served at noon Mon-Fri for $4. Call for reservation before 9a at 307-4682422 or 712-400-9056. Coffee and treats at 9a on Tues. Exercise program at 9a every Tue and Fri. Card elimination and potluck every third Mon at 5:30p. Ask about medical equipment loans. Info 307-468-9262.

CODY

JUNE 24

PEAKS to Conga: This 66-mile bicycle ride starts at 7a in Cody and continues to Shell to KICK CANCER TO THE CURB with a “Shellebration” in downtown Shell all day after the ride. Includes silent auction, live music, food, art, cash bar, 50/50 raffle, petting zoo and more fun for friends and families. All proceeds benefit cancer patients in the Big Horn Basin. Info Peakstoconga.org, Facebook and Instagram pages.

ONGOING

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

DUBOIS

THIRD WEDNESDAYS

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

FIRST AND THIRD THURSDAYS

Farmer’s Market: 2:30-4:30p. Headwaters Arts & Conference Center. Featuring local produce, baked goods and bread, dairy products, jams and jellies, herbs and salves. Info 307-455-2027.

FRIDAYS

Story Time: 11:30a. Dubois Branch Library, 202 N First St. Free. Stretches, story, songs, crafts, and fun! Ages birth-5 years. Info 307-455-2992.

GREYBULL

SECOND SATURDAYS

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

HYATTVILLE

ONGOING

Ice Skating: Medicine Lodge Hyattville. The ice is ready! For times check facebook.com/ FriendsofMedicineLodge.

LANDER

SATURDAYS

Acoustic Music Jam: 11a-1p. Lander Bake Shop. Info 307-332-3237.

ONGOING

First Friday: New artist and local musician each month. Art show reception 5p, music 6p. Middle Fork Restaurant. Info 307-335-5035, facebook.com/MiddleForkCafe.

RIVERTON

WEDNESDAYS

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

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

Starlight Storytime: 5:30p. Riverton Branch Library. Ages birth-5. Free. Info 307-856-3556.

THURSDAYS

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

SATURDAYS

Farmer’s Market: 9-11a. Little Wind Center at the Fremont County Fairgrounds. Info 307-851-7562.

METEETSEE

MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS

Meeteetse Recreation District: 10:30a yoga. Info 307-899-2698, meetrec.org.

MONDAYS

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

POWELL

JUNE 1

Homesteader Museum Summer

Hours: Open Tuesday-Friday 10a5p; Saturdays 10a-2p. Private tours by appointment. Info 307-754-9481.

JUNE 13

The First Churches of Powell Exhibit: 5-7:30p. Homesteader Museum. Info 307-754-9481.

JUNE 30

Homesteader Museum Book Club: 9a. Homesteader Museum. We will discuss the book “The Spy and the Traitor” by Ben Macintyre. Contact Homesteader@parkcountywy.gov if interested in joining the book club.

JUNE 30-JULY 1

Powell High School Alumni

Weekend: 2-4p. Stop by for the PHS Alumni Open House to peruse your Powell High School yearbooks and take a walk down memory lane as you explore the displays and exhibits throughout the Homesteader Museum. July 1 will have extended hours 8a-3p for PHS alumni to enjoy a presentation on the changes through the decades of Powell’s Bent (main) Street at 9:30a or 2p.

SHOSHONE

JUNE 10-11

27th Wind River Flywheeler

Send complete information by JUNE 15!

Please send events occurring in the month of August by June 15, and September by July 15 for inclusion in the WREN.

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

Photos are always welcome.

Antique Engine and Tractor Show: 10a-1:30p. Located at park at the east side of town. Free. There will be craft vendors, engines and tractors, and a 1913 50 hp Case Steam Engine. For kids there is a Barrel Train, Pedal Tractors and a Sand Box. Food vendors and music (Packin the Mail) will be available for lunch, including Dutch oven cooking. Info Carlta Witthar at 307-856-1164, cmaule@ wyoming.com. Vendors call Cindy Leonhardt at 307-856-6804.

THERMOPOLIS

SECOND SATURDAYS

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

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

LYMAN

THURSDAYS

Storytime: 11a, Lyman Branch Library, all ages are welcome, free. Info 307-787-6556, uintalibrary.org.

MOUNTAIN VIEW

MONDAYS

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

WEDNESDAYS

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

SUBMIT AN EVENT

Think Globally. Eat Locally.

WREN CLASSIFIED ADS ARE $0.75 PER SIX CHARACTERS

FOR SALE

Aermotor Windmills and parts, cylinders, pipe, rod, submersible pumps, motors, control boxes, Hastings 12 ga. bottomless stock tanks, Shaver Outdoor Wood Boiler Furnaces and more. In business for more than 77 years. Herren Bros., Box 187, Harrison NE. 1-308-668-2582.

For Sale! Goulds 3ST1H1A4 Centrifugal Water Irrigation Pump 1-1/2” x 2” Never used. 3500 RPM. Internet cost: $3K to $3500. Asking $1500. Bought for house but pumps 175 Gal/Minute. Way too big! Have stats and wire diagram. Call John (307) 752-7028, Sheridan, WY.

New & Used Coal Stokers, parts, service & advice. Available for most makes. Thanks. 307-754-3757.

Pain Balm, best topical for muscle, joint or chronic pain. Resolve your aches, pain, soreness & Arthritis discomfort. Works within minutes. 100% pure essential oils like juniper berry, rosemary, ginger & more! Free standard shipping anywhere in the United States. Call 702.234.3866.

MISCELLANEOUS

Soon Church/Government uniting, suppressing “Religious Liberty” enforcing “National Sunday Law.” Be Informed! Free materials. TSBM, PO Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540, tbsmads@yahoo.com, 1-888-211-1715.

WANTED

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

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 307-660-2402 relics@frontierauto.net.

WANTED CJ or Wrangler reasonably priced. Any condition but rusted. 512-797-1664.

OH, GIVE US A HOME:

REFLECTIONS FROM A RESCUE TRANSPORTER

BY GAYLE M. IRWIN

Her name is Dolly, and she needed a ride. I traveled with her in my car from Casper to Sheridan. She had ridden with someone else from Cheyenne to Casper. Her adoptive mom met me in Sheridan and took Dolly home to Bozeman, Montana.

MABTR is one of six rescue groups I assist with transport when they need Wyoming drivers. I’ve taken animals to Montana, to Colorado and to South Dakota when I’m able, and each dog has taught me a valuable life lesson.

The 2-year-old fawn and white Boston Terrier was not my first transport for Mid-America Boston Terrier Rescue (MABTR). I traveled the same 150 miles along I-25 in 2015, this time with Theo, a black and white, young Boston boy who was also adopted by a Bozeman family.

Dolly’s story highlights an incredible lesson: “Even if someone uses you only for what they can get out of you, there’s another who will love you for who you are, imperfections included.” At just 2 years of age, she was used as a breeding female in a puppy mill – until an entire litter was lost, and she ended up with a perforated uterus. Her owner tossed her away. Thankfully, MABTR came to her aid and, after vet visits, time to heal and life with a caring foster family, another compassionate, dog-loving person stepped in to adopt her.

Theo’s story wasn’t quite as tragic. His original owners were elderly and could no longer care for him. Yet, he also taught a valuable lesson: hope for what lies ahead. He often looked out the windshield as we drove, eyes wide as if eager to see where we were going. When we pulled into the Sheridan rest area, he stood on the passenger’s side door frame and looked out the window with enthusiasm, and when we walked to meet his adoptive family, Theo happily greeted them.

My first transport was Jazmine, who could have been a tragic statistic. Someone abandoned her and 12 puppies in a desert. Thanks to a Good Samaritan, they were taken to a rescue, and each one went to a loving home. Jazmine traveled nearly 1,100 miles to her new home in Canada after a couple with two children adopted her. I was her transport through part

Dolly, a March 2023 transport.

Theo the Boston Terrier riding in the front seat.

of Wyoming. I believe Jazmine met at least nine new people before meeting her new family. Her experience impacted me in many ways. I saw lessons on courage, trust, forgiveness and community. Although rejected by one person, Jazmine trusted others with herself and her pups, braved meeting new people through the course of her rescue and transport, and offered forgiveness to humans despite what someone had done to her and her little family. She also brought a community

of dog lovers together to help her find her new, loving home. One person’s heartless act brought many hearts together to save the lives of Jazmine and her puppies. Her story, and my time with her, became a contribution to a “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book, touching hearts across the world.

I became a committed transporter for animal rescue organizations after my short time with Jazmine more than a decade ago. I may only spend a few hours with my charges, but those couple of hours are life-altering as I learn each dog’s story. Knowing most are leaving behind sad situations and going into loving, dedicated homes fills my heart with joy. Each animal, each transport, has a story, and I’m honored to play a small part in a chapter of their lives.

An older beagle named Boone traveled with me to Mammoth Hot Springs

in Yellowstone National Park. A concessionaire manager adopted the elderly dog. Boone’s bray upon getting out of my car, meeting his new special person and viewing the forest scenery around him, caused me to cry. Happiness and gratitude emanated from that beagle bellow. The lesson? Be thankful for the little as well as the big things, and don’t be shy about sharing that gratitude.

Big, beautiful Cecelia needed rescue. A neglected Newfoundland nearly 50 pounds underweight, she rode in my car for nearly 200 miles. I noticed her nervousness, so I played relaxing music on the car stereo. She often looked at me with somber eyes. Her lesson? “I may not know what lies ahead, but I’ll be brave as I walk into that mysterious future.”

We can learn valuable lessons from rescue dogs if our hearts are open.

As spring takes full root and summer hovers on the horizon, I eagerly anticipate additional rescue transports. Wyoming’s natural beauty shines during these seasons, and I’m excited to step into my vehicle with a rescue dog during these glorious months. Time to put down the car window, breathe the fresh air, soak up the sunshine, observe Wyoming’s wildlife and wildflowers, and help animals in need go into rescue or arrive at home – and absorb more life lessons along the journey. W

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

Her experience impacted me in many ways. I saw lessons on courage, trust, forgiveness and community.

Boone the beagle braying at his new home in Yellowstone National Park.

Jazmine takes a break at the Sheridan rest area.

Ceclia pokes her head out the window during transport.

DIYWANDSRIBBON

Why ribbon wands? To encourage locomotive movement (walking, running, skipping, dancing), lyrical movement (which is continuous, graceful, and fluid), and movement that crosses the midline. And last, but certainly not least, to inspire a little whimsy.

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Some ribbon

You can use a stick you find outside, a dowel rod, a drumstick, a craft stick, or whatever else you have on hand. Use ribbon or string in multiple colors and tie it to one end of the stick. Then, have fun!

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Discover which direction the wind is blowing!

Talk about the cardinal directions and how they are used on maps, and how you can always find east and west by how the sun rises and sets.

Watch videos together of rhythmic gymnastics!

Make up your own routines to your kids’ favorite songs.