WYOMING RURAL ELECTRIC NEWS
THE ENERGY MIX : RENEWABLES
BASIN ELECTRIC
COMMUNITY
CREATED FOR COMMUNITIES
Community support is more than a nice idea – it’s Basin Electric’s culture. Giving back to local organizations is important to us because charitable programs and non-profit services help our employees’ and members’ communities thrive. Basin Electric provides employees with time to volunteer for the charitable groups they’re passionate about.
Our communities have supported us throughout the years by providing our strong workforce, and without them, we couldn’t provide reliable, affordable electricity across rural America. Now more than ever, community matters.
STORY BY WREN STAFF
RISK VS. REWARD
Over the past several years there have been conversations in the halls of the capitol building and around the state about how to attract large industrial loads to Wyoming. Much of this conversation has focused on landing data centers, cryptocurrency mining operations and, more recently, artificial intelligence (AI) facilities. Reasons for or the reward for wanting to bring these technologically driven companies to our beloved state range from job creation, economic development and taxes to diversifying our economy. All good things in my mind, and things that the state has been grappling with for decades.
However, the risks involved in “technifying” (a word I made up) the Equality State rarely come up in these discussions, particularly the risks to our rural communities. Most of the conversations are about why the existing regulatory structure of Wyoming’s utilities needs to be changed in order to attract tech companies. A structure that has worked for close to a century and one that has brought electricity to rural Wyoming and allowed our communities to thrive.
I know I’ve written about certificated service territories in the past, but in a nutshell, once rural electric cooperatives started providing power to rural Wyoming, because the for-profit utilities wouldn’t, the need arose to create “natural monopolies” to ensure continuity and reliability, and to allow the utility in that certificated territory to be able to plan for future growth. Take for example the growth of the coal mining industry and the coalbed methane industry in the ‘90s. Most of this happened within a rural electric cooperative’s (Powder River Energy) service territory in the Powder River Basin. The cooperative was able to plan
and serve the huge industrial loads, while still protecting the reliability and rates of the other member-owners of the co-op. This is how it’s supposed to work.
Now, however, cooperatives are being asked to provide power to even larger loads, in terms of megawatts needed, in a very short period of time and at special rates. Without regard to the reliability and rate stability of the other cooperative members. No utility has excess capacity or power just sitting out there ready to serve a new load, much less one requiring massive amounts of it, and the time it takes to site, permit and acquire the necessary materials to build new generation (and transmission) doesn’t happen overnight. It doesn’t matter if you’re a not-for-profit cooperative, a for-profit utility or an independent third-party generator, serving the large industrial loads takes time and money and planning. Throwing the proverbial baby out with the bathwater by altering the regulatory structure and thereby degrading the certificated service territories for the sake of bringing on new large industrial loads does not make sense. The cooperatives stand ready and willing to work with companies, legislators and others to bring these loads on line, but we need to ask ourselves, is the risk worth the reward?
SHAWN TAYLOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
BEST FRIENDS
PHOTO BY MELODY TURNER, MELODY MAE PHOTOGRAPHY TORRINGTON, WYOMING
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NIOBRARA
Justin Huston
Justin Huston is a Line Foreman and also serves as a first responder in Harrison, Nebraska.
How long have you been a lineman?
Going on 20 years now.
What made you want to be a lineman?
Well I was a ranch hand with cattle and fencing and was looking for a new job, so I just kind of picked utility lineman as a program to try.
How long have you been at this cooperative?
About 10 years. I initially started with Southwest Public Power District in Palisade, Nebraska. I was down there for 9 years and then I came up to Niobrara.
What do you enjoy about working at NEA?
It’s really good country up here. I kind of like the smaller co-op, too. It’s more of a family base. You’re not just a number on a piece of paper. Everyone knows ya. I really enjoy it.
What is your favorite part of the position?
It’s just the challenge of the days, being able to be outside. You usually see something different every day.
When did you become a first responder/fireman?
I am a first responder with the fire department in Harrison and I’ve been with them for a little over 10 years.
Do any of the skills you have from being a first responder cross over into your job as a lineman, or is there anything you’ve learned in either position that has helped you in the other?
Just helping people is kind of what it is. Just trying to be a benefit to the community.
Who or what inspires you to do your job well?
That’d be my family. My wife and kids. I have two daughters. I’m in trouble.
What are the most important qualities for someone in your position to have?
Good work ethic. Willing to work hard. We’re all a pretty good group of guys and everyone gets the job done.
Are there any tips or tricks you learned while making the transition to being a lineman?
It was eye-opening; it’s such a good trade. I didn’t realize it was such a good trade when I first decided to go into it.
What kinds of tips would you give a young person that is interested in becoming a lineman?
I’d say just go for it. Give it a try. You’re not going to know if you like it until you try it. There’s a very good chance you’re going to enjoy it. It’s a very good job to be involved in. It’s well worth it.
WREA Gathers for 2nd Annual Fall Conference
The main speakers included Airloom Energy and Kindle Energy as well as a panel for Generation & Transmission. The meeting concluded with a keynote from Terra Power’s CEO Chris Levesque.
Kenny Curry with Carbon Power & Light was honored for his years of service on the WREA board from 2018-2024. Curry continues to serve on the board of Carbon Power & Light, which he has been on for 15 years.
Jack Hammond from Niobrara Electric Association was selected to receive the Craig Thomas Cooperative Service Award. This award is presented annually, and
THE WYOMING RURAL ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION AND ITS MEMBERS RECENTLY JOINED FOR THEIR SECOND ANNUAL FALL CONFERENCE IN SHERIDAN.
while anyone from Wyoming can be nominated, only one individual is selected. The award is in recognition of those who have gone above and beyond to support the cooperative mission and purpose.
Hammond retired in 2022 after serving on the board of directors for Niobrara Electric Association for nearly five decades since 1973, during which he experienced many changes in the cooperative world. He also avidly supported Craig Thomas as he pursued his place in the United States Congress. Thomas went on to serve as United States Senator for Wyoming from 1995 until his death in 2007.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WYOMING RURAL ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION
WREA Board President and Big Horn Rural Electric Company Board Director John Joyce (left) presents the Craig Thomas Cooperative Service Award to Jack Hammond (right).
Generational Wealth
THE ENERGY MIX:
Renewables
BY WREN STAFF
Wyoming has a wealth of energy resources and ranks second as the nation’s largest supplier of energy. Our state is the largest coal and uranium producer in the nation, and ranks eighth and ninth in production of oil and natural gas. However, an increasing amount of Wyoming’s energy is being generated from wind power, and there’s hydropower, solar power, biomass and geothermal power in the mix, too.
Wyoming’s renewable energies help to create a diverse energy grid for the state, which builds a strong foundation for Wyoming’s energy future.
Renewable vs. Non-Renewable Energy
Renewable energy is derived from natural sources that can be replenished at a higher rate than they are used. For example, wind and sunlight are plentiful because they are continually being replenished.
Energy sources such as fossil fuels, including coal, oil and gas, are non-renewable because they take hundreds of millions of years to form. Non-renewable energy sources will not be replenished in our lifetime.
All of the Above
An “all of the above” energy portfolio is built on the notion that production and utilization of every type of energy available will keep the lights on, keep costs low for consumers and power the economy forward. In Wyoming, this means pairing traditional energy sources such as coal, oil and natural gas with renewable energy sources in order to create a balance that provides what the state needs.
Last year, Governor Gordon outlined his all of the above energy strategy in an opinion piece, “Wyoming Needs to Be Bullish About Energy!” In it, he highlighted Wyoming’s energy leadership and opportunities for Wyoming’s
traditional fossil energy to continue to be an essential part of any energy mix, alongside renewables:
To be clear, I have spoken, and will continue, to speak to audiences inside and outside Wyoming with the message that Wyoming provides energy of all types, and that our future – America’s and the world’s – depends on all types of energy. I won’t back down. Our industries are too important, those jobs are essential to our economy, and our energy leadership is something we need to maximize in order to keep our industries relevant and strong…
For the record, no matter one’s views on climate, all of our energy is valuable. New technology can make it better and more abundant. It is time for Wyoming to press her established leadership on energy, the environment, and private property to her advantage. Wyoming is a place where jobs, careers, and opportunities should flourish rather than languish.
Lisa Tiffin, Senior Vice President Energy Management of Tri-State Generation & Transmission, agrees. “With the financial benefits of federal direct pay tax credits
and USDA New ERA funding, renewable energy provides low-cost energy on an as-available basis. Non-renewable energy, in the form of semi-dispatchable or dispatchable resources, are necessary to provide controllable capacity to mitigate the variability of renewable resources by supplying energy on short notice, as renewable resources ramp down due to variable weather conditions. Together renewable and non-renewable energy provide a reliable, affordable and responsible energy supply for our member systems,” she said.
Wyoming’s Renewables
Last year, renewable energy sources were used to generate 23% of the electricity in Wyoming, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), with about 90% of renewable electricity generation coming from wind power. Wyoming had about 3,100 megawatts of wind power generation capacity at the end of 2023.
There are 10 solar energy companies in Wyoming, and hydropower projects power cooperative members around the state.
“
For the record, no matter one’s views on climate, all of our energy is valuable. New technology can make it better and more abundant. It is time for Wyoming to press her established leadership on energy, the environment, and private property to her advantage. Wyoming is a place where jobs, careers, and opportunities should flourish rather than languish.
1800 – First Battery Created
The 19th century started out strong with scientist Alessandro Volta creating the first battery, consisting of a stack of alternating metals separated by brine-soaked cloth.
1838
– First Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Welsh scientist William Robert Grove was the first to develop hydrogen fuel cell technology. Now more industries are looking into fuel cell technology as a means of alternative fuel.
1880 – Thomas Edison Patents Electric Lamp
Edison was granted the historical patent for the incandescent light bulb, paving the way for its domestic use in the United States. Although he wasn’t the original inventor, his patent win allowed the technology to become far more commercialized and standardized.
1891
– Nikola Tesla invents Namesake Coil
Tesla’s research and inventions were the basis of X-ray technology and the circuits featured in medical equipment and spark plugs until the 1920s.
1908 – Ford Mass Produces First Flex Fuel Vehicle
Most people think of Hybrids as a recent invention, but their roots were established a century prior. Flex Fuels were championed first by Ford. They mass produced a version of their Model T that ran on either gasoline or ethanol.
1911
– First Commercial Geothermal Plant Built
The plant was built in Larderello, Italy - the same place where the first geothermal generator was successfully tested seven years earlier in 1904.
1935 – Hoover Dam
Set on the Colorado River in Arizona, the Hoover Dam became the world’s largest hydroelectric power plant.
1954 – First Solar Cell
Though the foundation for solar cell technology started much earlier with Polish scientist Jan Czochralski, the scientists at New Jersey’s Bell Labs were able to create the first practical solar cell that could convert the power of the sun into electrical energy.
1958 – First Solar Powered Satellite
Just four years after Bell Labs created the first solar cell, the U.S. was the first to launch a satellite powered entirely by the sun.
1974 – Salter’s Duck Bobs for Wave Power
Spurred on by the oil crisis in 1973, Scottish inventor Stephen Salter found a way to harness wave energy by fitting gyroscopes inside a pear-shaped device that resembles a bobbing duck on the waves.
Wind Solar
Wind flows over the blades of a wind turbine, crerating mechanical power by turning the blades.
The blades are connected to a drive shaft that turns an electric generator to produce electricity.
Photovoltaic (PV) cells contain thin semiconductor wafers, forming an electric field. When light hits the cell, electrons are knocked loose from the semiconductor material and move in response to the electric field. This generates electricity, transferred through metal conductors on the PV cell.
Geothermal
As the water reaches the surface, it boils over into steam, which rotates a steam turbine.
The turbine is connected to a generator that produces electricity.
Hot water from underground reservoirs is pumped using pipes or wells.
GLOBALELECTRICITYGENERATION
Steam rotates the blades of a turbine connected to a generator that produces electricity.
generate electricity.
1977 – Department of Energy Established
In response to the oil and natural gas crisis of the 1970s, President Jimmy Carter urged the push towards renewable energy and alternative fuels in his historic public address. As a result, the U.S. Department of Energy was created later in the year.
2008 – Tesla Launches Roadster
Electric cars got a makeover when Elon Musk, founder of the car company Tesla, released the Roadster and disrupted the traditional gas-aholic car industry.
2008 – Google Plans to Go Driverless
Google and Waymo disrupted the car industry further by working on autonomous vehicles with the goal of improving road safety, air quality and congestion.
2012 – Wind Energy Powers 15 million Homes
Wind energy became the primary source of renewable electricity, powering 15 million homes in the U.S.
2014
– World’s Largest Solar Plant
To date, the Ivanpah solar plant in the Mojave Desert is still the largest solar plant. Upon going live, it generated 392 megawatts of clean power, enough to power 94,000 American homes.
2015 – Making Nuclear Power Cheaper and Safer
Dams or other diversion structures alter the natural flow of water to increase its elevation and volume.
Water flows through the dam, generating mechanical energy that spins a turbine connected to an electric generator.
Transatomic Power, a company founded by MIT PhD students, started work on a molten salt nuclear reactor that would be less costly and consume its own nuclear waste as fuel.
2016
– First Offshore Wind Farm in the U.S.
Set off the coast of Rhode Island, the Block Island Wind Farm was the first offshore wind farm in the U.S. with a total capacity of 30 Megawatts.
2017 – Jimmy Carter Brings Solar Home
At 92, the former president championed the construction of a 1.3 megawatt solar plant that supplies his hometown of Plains, Georgia with 50% of its power needs. This is one of the best examples of a town built on renewables.
2020 – Hornsea One Wind Farm Goes Live
The 1,200-megawatt Hornsea Wind Farm went fully online in the U.K. as the world’s largest offshore wind farm.
2023 – Global Biofuel Alliance
The Global Biofuel Alliance launched at the G20 Summit to try to expand the use of sustainable biofuels. It intends to enable advances in biofuel technology, explore alternative ingredients for biofuels and act as a knowledge hub to help foster global collaboration.
But that’s not all.
Biomass, an organic material that comes from plants and animals, is the oldest renewable energy source. It can be burned for heat or converted to renewable liquid and gaseous fuels to be used for generating electricity, transportation fuel or space heating. While biomass hasn’t been the largest source of annual U.S. energy consumption since the mid1800s, it’s still an important fuel, and its use in transportation and for electricity generation is increasing.
Ethanol and biodiesel are the primary fuels created from biomass, but biodiesel is typically the fuel that can be created in small quantities by individuals or small groups. Biodiesel is made from animal fat or vegetable oils and can be used as a substitute for petroleum diesel. In 2021, the HF Sinclair Cheyenne refinery was converted into a Renewable Diesel Unit (RDU). With a capacity of 6,000 barrels per day, the Cheyenne RDU processes refined soybean oil and animal fats into renewable diesel and small amounts of renewable naphtha.
Geothermal energy comes from the heat of the earth. The Department of Energy explains that geothermal resources are reservoirs of hot water that exist or are human-made at varying temperatures and depths below the earth’s surface. Wells can be drilled into underground reservoirs to tap steam and very hot
“
Our philosophy is really more about how we can keep Wyoming at the forefront of delivering reliable energy to millions of Americans for the next several decades.
water and bring it to the surface for energy generation, as well as heating and cooling buildings through the use of heat pumps.
Tri-State G&T relies on the capacity and dispatch capabilities of Laramie River Station in Wyoming and its other thermal resources, along with other thermal resources in the Southwest Power Pool energy imbalance market footprint, to provide reliable power to their member systems.
“Renewable resources in Wyoming deliver distinct, varying energy profiles providing low-cost power with ‘free fuel.’ Thermal resources operate around this intermittency, minimizing fuel costs while ensuring reliability,” Tiffin noted.
Wyoming’s geothermal features also bring in tourism, especially to Yellowstone National Park and Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis.
“With Tri-State’s diverse footprint, renewable resources have unique generation profiles based on their location on our system. Currently Tri-State’s existing wind resources are located in eastern Colorado, and our existing or under construction solar resources are sited in New Mexico and Colorado,” Tiffin said. “The potential addition of wind resources in Wyoming strengthens our resource mix by leveraging the diversity of the system within transmission constraints.”
Renewables in Wyoming’s All of the Above Strategy
Wyoming Energy Authority lays out their Wyoming Energy Strategy with focus on “the full value of our energy resources, from extraction commodities to transportation and transformation of raw products, to commercialization of energy services. This is an all-of-the-above manifesto: we will continue appropriate development of our legacy products while expanding investment in renewables, hydrogen, nuclear, geothermal, and rare earth elements.”
It is a “pro-Wyoming” strategy that continues to place the state as the
The expansion of Wyoming’s renewable energy sector and other clean energy along with existing non-renewable resources can strengthen and help diversify Wyoming’s economy.
leader in energy extraction, transport, generation and new technology development, and continues to enhance the well-being of Wyomingites.
“Our philosophy is really more about how we can keep Wyoming at the forefront of delivering reliable energy to millions of Americans for the next several decades. With energy demand surging in a way that we haven’t seen for many years, our view is that all kinds of Wyoming-made energy have something to contribute to our overall portfolio,” said Rob Creager, Executive Director of the Wyoming Energy Authority.
Tri-State has a long-standing relationship with the state of Wyoming through partial ownership in the Laramie River Station and support of the Integrated Test Center in Gillette. “As the grid and our resource mix transitions, we are excited to expand that relationship through the addition of renewable generation projects that will
bring employment and tax revenues to localities where resources are sited,” Tiffin said.
These projects also initiate a long-term community relationship with Tri-State.
In addition to renewable energy, Tri-State is also supportive of clean energy alternatives that can provide firm and dispatchable energy. Tiffin said the Wyoming portion of Tri-State’s planning region is ideal for exploring partnerships around these emerging technologies.
In September 2024, Tri-State issued three requests for proposals (RFPs) for new resources—renewable, standalone storage and dispatchable. Tri-State will model its system to determine selection of the bids that best meet reliability and environmental
criteria, at the least cost to Tri-State Members. This is anticipated to lead to the largest resource acquisition in Tri-State history.
“We expect to see the resource type and locational diversity that we have today expand through this bid selection,” Tiffin said, “for the benefit of Tri-State’s Members.”
“The expansion of Wyoming’s renewable energy sector and other clean energy along with existing non-renewable resources can strengthen and help diversify Wyoming’s economy,” she said.
“More is more when it comes to energy –whether it’s made from Wyoming coal, Wyoming wind, Wyoming uranium or Wyoming oil and gas,” Creager said. “We are going to need more of all kinds of energy to meet the future energy demands in this country. And we want Wyoming to be front and center in that future.” W
*Biomass energy is renewable but can become non-renewable, as it relies on biomass feedstocks–plants (such as corn and soy) that are produced and burned to create electricity. However, if biomass feedstocks are not replenished as quickly as they are used, biomass energy becomes non-renewable.
YUCCA MOTHS are Important
Pollinators
wyobiodiversity.org
Yucca moths (Tegeticula or Parategeticula sp.) have a special relationship with yucca plants (g. Yucca). They depend on each other so much that one cannot live without the other!
Life is Short
Yucca moths are tiny, very plain, white moths that blend in well with the yucca flowers. The moth’s main job is to lay eggs and pollinate yucca plants during the insect’s very short adult life. Because their lives are so short, they do not need to eat and do not even have a mouth.
Life is Bountiful
The female moth has special tentacles under her chin to help hold pollen. She visits several yucca flowers on a plant and gathers the pollen in a large clump. She then carries the pollen to a different flowering yucca plant. When she arrives at this new yucca, she chooses flowers that are at the correct stage for supporting her eggs. Once she chooses a flower, she must make sure that no other female has laid eggs there. If too many eggs are laid in a flower, the caterpillars will starve when the eggs hatch! She lays her eggs and then deposits her collected pollen, ensuring that the yucca gets crosspollinated so that the flower will produce fruit and enough seeds to feed her young when they hatch.
Life is a Cycle
When the caterpillars are fully grown, they drop off the plant, bury themselves in the ground, form a cocoon, and go dormant. Most stay underground until the next spring, but the moths can stay dormant for over a year if the yucca plants fail to bloom. Once the moths hatch, the cycle starts again, ensuring that both the moths and the yucca plants will survive.
LITTLE WYOMING
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.
Out tted with a stopwatch, alarm, a.m./p.m. settings, and day, date and month complications, this timepiece stands out from the crowd. With its large face and handsome, masculine design, this watch is perfect for the back nine and the happy hour afterwards. Water-resistant up to 3 ATM, this timepiece won’t wimp out if you have a run-in with a water hazard.
Other hybrid watches can sell for thousands of dollars, but because we’ve built more than 1 million watches, we know how to create real value. at’s why we can o er this timepiece for just $59! If you’re not completely satis ed with this watch, return it for a full refund.
Act quickly! is one-of-a-kind watch has been one of our fastest sellers this year. Of our original run of 2,872, we only have 389 left for this ad! In the last couple of years there’s been a watch shortage, but Stauer has got you covered. If you’re the kind of man who gives everything and expects nothing in return, it’s time to treat yourself.
Watch Speci cations:
• Complications: stopwatch, alarm, a.m./p.m. settings, and day, date and month
• Precision movement chronograph
• Stainless steel caseback and crown
• Water-resistant to 3 ATM
BY KEN STIMSON
It Takes Some Oats to Catch a Horse
In the movies all a cowboy had to do was whistle and his horse would come running. On the ranch we could never get our horses to do that. When we would go to catch our horses, they knew it meant work and sometimes they didn’t want to work. Sometimes they just wanted to play a little game of tag before starting a job. But most of all I think they just wanted a little attention and to remind us not to take them for granted. So we would have to do a little coaxing; a few kind words, maybe some praise, or the last resort – some oats.
When it comes to praise, recognition and incentive we see that people are not unlike horses.
Our milk cows were a great example of the value of praise. They not only
needed it, they required it. If you get a milk cow upset she will not let her milk flow freely and what milk you do get will taste bad. And when the temperature is cold don’t you dare put your cold hands on her, you get kicked and kicked hard. When you get the cows in the barn you wouldn’t think of yelling at them like this, “Ladies, your milk production was down last week and we simply can’t have that. Unless your production raises, disciplinary action will be taken.” Cows don’t respond to threats and guess what, in the long run neither do people. If you want a cow to give more milk, you have to give her more attention, you have to find out if she is not eating right, if the flies are bothering her. Sometimes it just takes a few kind words, “So Bossy, how you doing today? Hey, Missy you’re looking fine this evening.” Cows respond to kind words, so do people.
A sales manager at a local company sent a memo that said sales were down and if sales didn’t increase there was going to be disciplinary action taken. Well, six months later sales were down even further and he was trying to train a new sales force because most everyone had to quit to find other jobs.
When I look back on the lessons of life learned on the farm, I am amazed by the power that sincere appreciation and praise have brought me. How when given, it makes us strive to live up to or surpass it. I remember an instructor at the University of Wyoming, Dr. Jones. He wrote on a test paper I handed in: “Sarcasm is dangerous on a test, but I like it.” Thirty years later it is still fresh in my mind, the only bit of praise I ever heard him give. Too bad, because I think he discouraged many from pursuing his field of study.
Each of us can remember some small bit of praise we received in our childhood. Many times, praise brings more results than money. Isn’t it sad when someone says, “I know you know so I don’t have to tell you, that you did a very good job on this or that?” Yet, how do we really know unless someone tells us? When it comes to praise, be a tattletale; if you hear a compliment about someone else make sure to relay the praise as soon as possible.
Another saying on the ranch was, if you keep plenty of good oats in the barn a horse will never forget his way home, and that sure applies to people. If you praise freely and openly positive relationships start flowing towards you. It feels good to praise others whether they are animals or people and what remarkable results we see when we do. If we point out negatives, then we must point out the positive. If we complain about poor service when eating out then we must praise good service when it occurs. Alex Haley said, “Find the good in people and praise it.” We can experience praise on so many levels and with so many of our senses. Nothing improves a person’s hearing like praise. Some of our sweetest sounds of life is praise from another – also we can record praise by letters. What a sight for one’s eyes to see a letter or note of praise, many of us have framed such written material so we and others can view it daily. What about the other senses – feel, taste and smell? What about a pat on the back? A kiss is the greatest seal of approval one can give. How about a good hug? How about petting your animals and saying “good boy” or “good girl?” Feels great, doesn’t it? I think we can safely say praise is the sweetest taste of life’s milk and we even give food in the form of gifts of praise. “Oh, you’ve done such a great job. Let me get you some warm chocolate chip cookies and some fresh cold milk.” Can’t you just smell the praise?
Praise is an infectious disease, make sure you are a “carrier.” Spread it to everyone you know because they in turn will pass it on. I have the best trash man in the world. How does he know that? Because I tell him, and we all know the best trash man in the world would never leave even one scrap of paper on the street for others to see. Quite amazing, isn’t it? So, you see that whether it is animals or people you’ll have a much happier, simpler life if you use that lesson I learned on the ranch so many years ago.
When you use oats in life, you get other rewards too. An example of this is when I was out of town on one occasion my suspenders broke, so I stopped at a J.C. Penney store and a young salesperson went out of his way to help get me fixed up. I thanked him very graciously and asked his name. From there I went straight to
the office and asked to see the manager. After a short wait I was ushered in and a very stern man asked if he could help me. I told him I just wanted to compliment him on his nice store and the positive attitude of the sales associates, particularly this one young man who had helped me, and that I realized it all started in his office and with his attitude. Well, this manager was so grateful for my positive feedback I thought he was going to cry. He said he couldn’t remember the last time someone had taken the time to stop by with some message other than a complaint. I know that our little chat made him feel good, but you know what, it made me feel great! W
Ken Stimson was raised in Goshen County on a small ranch 32 miles north of Torrington. He studied at UW after Torrington High and was a proud member of the Wyoming National Guard for six years.
Get to grandma’s house safely. Buckle up.
MARGARET
2 CUPS SLICED CARROTS
1 SMALL ONION, CHOPPED
1/2 CUP GREEN PEPPER, CHOPPED
4 1/2 CUPS CHICKEN BROTH
4 CUPS TOMATOES, PEELED AND CHOPPED OR 2 15 OZ CANS DICED TOMATOES
4 TSP SUGAR 1/2 TSP CURRY POWDER
TSP SALT
TSP FRESH GROUND PEPPER 1/4 CUP FLOUR 1/4 CUP BUTTER 1 CUP SLICED CELERY
Sauté carrots, celery, onions and green pepper in butter until tender. Add 4 cups chicken broth, tomatoes, sugar, curry powder, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes. Combine flour and remaining 1/4 cup broth, mixing with a small wire whip till smooth. Gradually stir into soup. Return soup to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Soup should slightly thicken. Ready to serve. Yields 9 servings.
JEAN HARM SHERIDAN
SOUP
JESSIE’S TOMATO SOUP
2 14.5 OZ CANS OF STEWED TOMATOES (CRUSHED)
4 SLICES BACON (FRIED 5-8 MINUTES, CRUMBLED)
2 CARROTS, CHOPPED 1/3 YELLOW ONION, MINCED
4 CLOVES GARLIC
1 1/2 TBS TOMATO PASTE
1 TBS FLOUR
4 CUPS CHICKEN BROTH
1 BAY LEAF
1/2 CUP MILK OR HEAVY CREAM
Remove fried bacon, add garlic, carrots and onion. Sauté 5-10 minutes. Add paste, stir until brown and caramelized. Add flour, stewed tomatoes (crushed), chicken broth, cream, bay leaf and bacon. Simmer for 30 minutes.
HAMBURGER SOUP
DILL PICKLE SOUP
1 CUP BUTTER
1 CUP CHOPPED ONION
4 CLOVES MINCED GARLIC 1/2 CUP FLOUR
32 OZ CHICKEN BROTH (LIKE SWANSON’S)
1 1/2 CUP CHOPPED DILL PICKLE (BEST IF HOME CANNED)
1 CUP WHITE WINE
3 TBS SUGAR
1 TSP CURRY POWDER
1 TSP DILL WEED
1 TBS WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE
2 TBS VINEGAR
1 TSP SALT
1 TSP PEPPER
1 14 OZ CAN EVAPORATED MILK
Melt butter in a big pot. Add onion and garlic. Sauté. Add flour, chicken broth and white wine. Simmer 15 minutes. Add sugar, curry powder, dill weed, worcestershire sauce, vinegar, salt and pepper. Add chopped dill pickle at the end. Add evaporated milk. Heat, but do not boil.
TIM & REE REICH BELL FOURCHE, SOUTH DAKOTA
BEEF
1/4 CUP CATSUP
Brown hamburger and drain off fat. Add water, undrained tomatoes, onions, carrots, celery, barley, catsup, bouillon, salt, basil and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 hour, or until vegetables are tender. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaf. Seal. Label and freeze in 1 cup or 1 pint serving portions. Makes 10 cups of soup.
TINY BUSH HULETT
16 OZ CAN TOMATOES, CUT UP 2 MEDIUM ONIONS, CHOPPED (1 CUP)
2 MEDIUM CARROTS, CHOPPED (1 CUP)
2 STALKS CELERY, CHOPPED (1 CUP)
1/3 CUP PEARL BARLEY
1 TSP SEASONED SALT
1 TSP DRIED BASIL, CRUSHED
1 BAY LEAF
SALT AND PEPPER
2 BEEF BOUILLON CUBES
5 CUPS WATER
FEBRUARY:
JACKIE CROWLEY SAINT ONGE, SOUTH DAKOTA
Staying In the Saddle For Over 80 Years
BY JACKIE DOROTHY
Ronald McDonald grew up in the saddle and, after over 80 years, he cannot imagine another life other than cowboying, as he still rides out to help his neighbors. His earliest memory of riding a horse was with his dad as a tiny tyke, being held on as they went about the daily chores.
My sister and I used to have to ride to school three miles, bareback,” McDonald said. “If you fall off a saddle, you get hung up, you get drugged, so Dad said ‘You’re gonna have to ride bareback.’”
McDonald enjoyed his childhood growing up on a ranch in Colorado and marveled at modern technology.
“I could remember when we didn’t have electricity, had kerosene labs, and had no indoor plumbing. That’s kind of how I grew up, till about probably the sixth grade,” McDonald said. “Then my dad got a 32-volt generator, called the light plant. We had to wire the house, and that was quite a little odd project because nobody knew how to wire.”
McDonald laughed, remembering the mess of wire that had to be fixed.
“When REA came, they had to completely rewire the house. I was in the seventh grade, still riding horseback to school when they said they got it all wired. They said, ‘Go, turn all the lights on.’ Me and my sis run through the house and we just turn on all the lights. It was a big deal, you know. We also got to flush a stool for the first time because we got indoor plumbing about the same time, too.”
Horse Whisperer
McDonald started breaking horses at an early age, when his dad bought him a wild horse.
“Dad was always kind of horse crazy,” McDonald said. “He bought one of those horses they caught off the Red Desert, a colt for 10 bucks. He says, ‘Here’s your horse. If you want a horse, you’re breaking it.’”
McDonald successfully broke the colt, who he named King, and had himself a “good cow horse” that caught the eye of his neighbor.
“He ran chariot horses and had a team of Bay horses when a lightning strike killed one of them. So he didn’t have his team and was entered in this chariot race.”
The neighbor asked to use King and after only one morning, had the horse broke to
Nancy and Ron McDonald
the chariot. For years after that, the neighbor would borrow the horse for the races, a testimony to the young boy’s skill at breaking horses.
Wedding Bells
McDonald has shared his life of cowboying with his wife for nearly seven decades. The pair have worked side-by-side on ranches from Colorado to Wyoming, where they moved in the 1950s.
“I was 15, he was 20,” McDonald’s wife Nancy said. “Ron came into the restaurant that I worked at. At 15, I was way more grown up than kids now days because I have been cooking for my mom and stuff since I’ve been nine. My mom wouldn’t give us permission at first, but finally we convinced her. Well, we made it work for 68 years.”
It’s work ethic that they’ve got, all cowboys. We just love what we’re doing. It ain’t really work. It’s kind of what you want to do, you know.
Brand Inspector
McDonald worked long hours at a sugar beet factory at the beginning of their marriage and was only too happy to get back into ranching. He was managing two ranches on Laramie River when the ranch was sold. It was then that he was offered the job of brand inspector at Laramie.
“They had a bunch of part timers down there, and these people weren’t getting inspected,” McDonald said. “I was told that they’re not doing it right and they needed a guy who will stand up for himself.”
McDonald took the job and admits to pissing a lot of people off over the years before successfully earning their respect.
“It was by the book, and they were not used to that, you know, but they got used to it,” he said. “It took a couple, three years, some of them were slow learners. If they have to pay a ticket, that kind of speeds up learning process up when you get in their pocketbook.”
Still in the Saddle
Today, he still keeps active and knows every brand in Laramie County. Although age has slowed him down, Ron McDonald is still working from the saddle with his faithful horse, Cricket.
“He’s a people horse and looks out for me. I can’t raise my right shoulder anymore and he’ll stand right there
patiently while I saddle up,” McDonald said. He hauls around his horse trailer and Cricket to help the neighbors with branding and round ups.
“On his 88th birthday, he came and helped me check cows, him and old Cricket,” Eric Langseth of Mill Iron 3 Ranch said. “He still rides and will put in a day’s work. Nobody ever got anything by him wrong when he was brand inspector, and ain’t nobody in a better sorting gate.
“They hired a couple of guys when he retired. Nobody shows up like he did, on time, always there and working cows. He’s still that way. You tell him eight o’clock, you better be ready for him at 7:30.”
McDonald admits the cowboy life is not for everyone but he enjoys the work.
“It’s work ethic that they’ve got, all cowboys. We just love what we’re doing,” he said. “It ain’t really work. It’s kind of what you want to do, you know.” W
Jackie Dorothy is a freelance writer and historian in Thermopolis, and hosts the Wyoming history podcast “Pioneers of Outlaw Country.”
Ron McDonald at a branding.
Ron McDonald
Survive Just About
Anything for Under $20
On any outdoor adventure, Mother Nature’s job is to present you with challenges. Some days she’s more demanding than others. And on those days, you’d better come prepared. The Stauer Survival Box is a near-guarantee you’ll be up to the challenge. The stainless steel multitool offers wire cutters, knife, bottle opener, file, a set of screwdrivers, a pair of pliers and much more. The powerful flashlight has three different settings, and the tactical loop watch is a reliable, waterresistant timepiece that clips to your hip and never leaves your side. All told, opening the Survival Box gives you instant access to nine different tools for JUST $19.50.
Regularly sold for $99, we’re offering this collection of survival essentials to you for A FIFTH OF THE NORMAL PRICE! Why? Because we’ve had an incredible year and we feel like giving back to our valued customers. As this kit has proven to be one of our all-time best sellers, we can only extend this offer while supplies last. Of our initial run of 1,737, more than half have already sold. Your move, Mother Nature.
Survival Box Specifications:
• Multitool: 3 1/4" x 1" folded
• Flashlight: 3 1/2" x 1", 260 lumens, takes AA batteries (not included), three LED light modes: strong, medium and caution flashing
• Watch: 2 3/4" x 1", battery type SR626SW (included)
Survival Box $99 $19.50* + S+P Save $79.50
*You must use Insider Offer Code: SVB287-01 to get this price. California residents please call regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
1-800-333-2045
Your Insider Offer Code: SVB287-01
Regularly priced at $99, take advantage of this special offer while supplies last!
Praise for Stauer’s Survival Box “[It] has everything!” — Carol T., Anaheim, CA
Box includes flashlight, watch and multitool with wire cutters, knife, bottle opener, file, screwdrivers, pliers and more!
Granddaughter and Her Friend
Trudy Craft, Basin
Can I Tell You a Secret?
Jody Fakler, Weston
Peas in a Pod
Rob Dickerson, Cheyenne
Best Friends and Best Ponies
Heather McLaughlin, Upton
Golden Hearts Together
Trina Sasse, Moorcroft
Romeo and Juliet
Melody Posey-Harris, Saratoga
Ms. Lainey Loving on Suki
Roy and Deb Bush, Hulett
Our Boy Niles
Johnny Chavez, Torrington
Thelma and Louise
Jan Barnett, Greybull
Best Friends
Robin Riesland, Newcastle
Three Amigos
Anthony Warburton, Cheyenne
Grandpa’s Fishing Buddy
Karen Henderson, Burlington
Best of Buds
Robin Riesland, Newcastle
Unbreakable Bond
Heather McLaughlin, Upton
Buddies
Rob McIntosh, Torrington
Best Friends Furever
Shay Luraas, Gillette
Buck Besties
Valerie Mason, Saratoga
Mom and Daughter, Best Friends
Sandra Price, Wheatland
My Best Friend
John Loud, Basin
Hugs from Your BFF Are the Best!
Tamara Filcaske, Gillette
Tuffy Newton
Johnny Chavez, Torrington
How a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can change your life
Remember when…
Think about the things you loved to do that are dif cult today — going for a walk or just sitting comfortably while reading a book. And remember the last time you got a great night’s sleep?
As we get older, health issues or even everyday aches, pains and stress can prevent us from enjoying life.
So what’s keeping you from having a better quality of life?
Check all the conditions that apply to you.
Dry Skin
Insomnia Anxiety
Diabetes Mobility Issues
Lower Back Poor Pain Circulation
Then read on to learn how a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can help.
Feel better, sleep better, live better
A Safe Step Walk-In Tub lets you indulge in a warm, relaxing bath that can help relieve life’s aches, pains and worries.
A Safe Step Tub can help increase mobility, boost energy and improve sleep.
It’s got everything you should look for in a walk-in tub:
• Heated Seat – Providing soothing warmth from start to nish.
• MicroSoothe® Air Therapy System – helps oxygenate and soften skin while offering therapeutic bene ts.
• Pain-relieving therapy – Hydro massage jets target sore muscles and joints.
• Safety features – Low step-in, grab bars and more can help you bathe safely and maintain your independence.
• Free Shower Package – shower while seated or standing.
FEATURED EVENT
21ST ANNUAL CHRISTMAS IN CENTENNIAL
CENTENNIAL DECEMBER 14
Ready for some holiday cheer? You are invited to a whole day of activities for the family as part of the 21st Annual Christmas in Centennial holiday celebration!
8:30AM Santa arrives! Two seatings for breakfast with Santa at the Trading Post (reservations required)
9AM-12PM Santa’s Workshop, Library Children can make an ornament for free!
9AM-3PM Arts and Crafts vendors, Centennial School
10-11:30AM Special U.S. Postal Service postmark –“Elf Station”
Horse-drawn wagon rides (weather permitting)
Info: christmasincentennial.com facebook.com/christmasincentennialwy
SOUTHEAST
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: Stampede Saloon & Eatery 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.
MEDICINE BOW
ONGOING
Museum and Gift Shop: Open 8:30am-4:30pm. 405 Lincoln Highway. Info: 307-379-2383.
02 | NORTHEAST
BUFFALO
THURSDAYS
Bluegrass Jam Session: 6:30pm. Occidental Saloon. Free. Info: 307-684-0451.
GILLETTE
DECEMBER 5
Repeal Day!: 5:30pm. Rockpile Museum Annex. Celebrate the end of Prohibition! Backwards Distilling’s Amber Pollock presents the history of prohibition and distilling while preparing cocktails to sample. Free. Info: heather.rodriguez@campbellcountywy.gov.
DECEMBER 14
Rockpile Museum Christmas Crafts Family Day: 10am-12pm. Rockpile Museum. We’re bringing out the glitter, glue and all things crafty! Limited space. Registration opens Nov. 25. Free. Info: 307-682-5723, rockpilemuseum.com.
THROUGH DECEMBER 2024
Hurrah for the Cowboy: Men of the Open Range: Campbell County Rockpile Museum. The traveling exhibit includes vintage engravings (1867-1911) depicting
the North American cowboy – the most romanticized figure in American history – as seen by contemporary artists such as Frederic Remington, Charles Russell, Maynard Dixon and many other notable artists. Curated by Lee Silliman, Hurrah for the Cowboy has appeared in museums across Montana, Colorado and Wyoming. Info: 307-682-5723, RockpileMuseum.com, facebook.com/ RockpileMuseum.
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 enjoyable evening under the neon lights. Upcoming dates will be posted on facebook.com/ frontierauto. Info: Ryan Swanson, 307-686-566, relics@frontierauto.net.
HULETT
TUESDAYS
Children’s Storytime: 10:30-11:30am. Hulett Library. Info: 307-467-5743.
MONDAY-THURSDAY
5 Mile Walking Exercise Class: 4:45-6pm. Hulett Library. Info: 307-467-5743.
MONDAY-FRIDAY
Senior Exercise Class: 9-10am. Hulett Library. Info: 307-467-5743.
MOORCROFT
DECEMBER 8
Storytime & Cookie Decorating: 3:30pm. Moorcroft Branch Library. Join us for stories and cookie fun while waiting for the Parade of Lights. Free. Info: 307-756-3232.
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.
ONGOING
Senior Center Events: 9am coffee and rolls on Wednesdays. 9am toenail clinic and 6pm dinner every fourth Thursday. Info: 307-756-9550.
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
DECEMBER 6
Holiday Swing ‘24: 7pm. Sheridan College. First come, first seated. Non-perishable donations of groceries or funds received for The Food Group of Sheridan at performances. Info: Sheridan College Box Office, 307-675-0360.
DECEMBER 6-8
Holiday Open House: 4pm. Trail End State Historic Site. Live entertainment. Info: 307-674-4589. Tickets $4. Info: trailend.org.
DECEMBER 7
Big Horn Equestrian Center
Winter Ball: 5:30pm. Sheridan County Fairgrounds. Black tie or elegant western attire. 5:30 p.m. Tickets $130, must be purchased in advance. Info: 307-673-0454, bighornequestriancenter.org/ winter-ball.
4th Annual Country Christmas Craft & Gift Show: 9am-4pm. Ramada Plaza, 1809 Sugarland Dr. Info: 307-752-7956 or Facebook.
DECEMBER 14
Sheridan College 4th Annual ProCRAFTinator’s Market: 9am-2pm. Sheridan College, Whitney Center Atrium, 1 Whitney Way. Info: Karen, 307-675-0105. United Methodist Women’s Cookie Sale. 9am-2pm. First United Methodist Church, 215 W Works St. Info: Barbara, 307-672-3813.
DECEMBER 19
Cookbook Series Event: Half Baked Harvest–Quick & Cozy: 6:30pm. Cottonwood Kitchen + Home, 234 N Main St. Tickets $85. Info: 307-674-7980.
DECEMBER 20-22
Christmas with the Kendricks: Dec. 20 & 21, 5pm. Dec. 22, 2pm. Trail End Historic Site, 400 Clarendon Ave. Info: 307-674-4589. Tickets at trailend.org.
DECEMBER 21
Tuba Christmas 2024: 1:30pm-2:45pm. Wesleyan Church, 404 W Brundage Lane. Free. Info: Bandgeek832@gmail.com.
DECEMBER 29-30
Bighorn Rush Sled Dog Challenge: 10am. Antelope Butte Mountain Recreation Area, 28 USFS Rd 244, Shell. Free to spectators. Info: facebook.com/BighornRush.
SATURDAYS
Landon’s Farmer’s Market: 10am. Landon’s Greenhouse, 505 College Meadows Dr. Info: 307-672-8340.
SUNDANCE
DECEMBER 6
Annual Festival of Lights ParadeRitz, Glitz & Reck Neck: 5:30pm. A beautiful lighted parade illuminates
Main Street! Followed by an open house at the Crook County Museum where you can see Santa and a chili feed fundraiser in the courthouse basement. Free. Info: sundancewyoming.com/events.
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
BASIN
JANUARY 4
Goat Roping: 10-4pm. BHC Fairgrounds. BHC Farm Bureau team roping for all ages. Cash payouts! Proceeds support Big Horn County WY Farm Bureau Youth Programs. Pre-register by Dec. 20. Info: 307-410-9301 or 307-272-5499.
CODY
MONDAY-SATURDAY
Cody Country Art League Gallery: 9am-5pm. 836 Sheridan Ave. Info: 307-587-3597.
DUBOIS
DECEMBER 7
Kids Corner: DIY Christmas Ornament: 11am-2pm. Dubois Museum. A Bailey Tire/Pit Stop Children’s Exploration Series Program. Come learn about how beautiful bulbs became a staple of Christmas decoration and make one yourself! Advanced registration. $3 per child. Info: 307-455-2284.
DECEMBER 7
Christmas Open House: 11-2pm. Dubois Museum. Newly acquired artifacts are part of must-see new exhibits! Refreshments. Free. Info: 307-455-2284.
THURSDAYS
Farmer’s Market: 4-6pm. Headwaters. Info: Twila Blakeman, 307-851-0785.
FRIDAYS
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.
FRIDAYS
Story Time: 11:30am. Dubois Branch Library, 202 N First St. Free. Stretches, story, songs, crafts and fun! Ages birth to 5 years. Info: 307-455-2992.
GREYBULL
SECOND SATURDAYS
Greybull Ladies Coffee: Greybull Library. Info: 307-765-2100.
LANDER
SATURDAYS
Acoustic Music Jam: 11am-1pm. Lander Bake Shop. Info: 307-332-3237.
ONGOING
First Friday: 5pm art show reception. 6pm music. Middle Fork Restaurant. New artist and local musician each month. Info: 307-335-5035, facebook.com/MiddleForkCafe.
RIVERTON
DECEMBER 7
Riverton Museum Christmas Open House: 10am-4pm. Riverton Museum. Explore the museum and enjoy hot cocoa and cookies. Free. Info: 307-856-2665.
Santa’s Workshop: 2-4pm. Riverton Museum. A Bailey Tire/Pit Stop Children’s Exploration Series Program. Activity focuses on creating a self-made toy that kids can take home. Kits available for purchase and assembly for $7 while supplies last. Info: 307-856-2665.
DECEMBER 21
Spirits of Christmas Past: 6-8pm. Riverton Museum. A Bailey Tire/Pit Stop Children’s Exploration Series Program. Sit around the fire and listen to Alma Law tell scary ghost stories and tales of Christmases long ago. Cookies and hot chocolate. $15 admission per person. Reservations required. 15 person event limit. Info: 307-856-2665.
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.
Starlight Storytime: 5:30pm. Riverton Branch Library. Ages birth to 5 years. 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
Homesteader Museum: 10am-5pm. Private tours or visits available. Info: 307-754-9481, homesteader@parkcounty-wy.gov.
SATURDAYS
Homesteader Museum: 10am-2pm. Private tours or visits available. Info: 307-754-9481, homesteader@parkcounty-wy.gov.
THERMOPOLIS
SECOND SATURDAYS
Please send events occurring in the month of January and February by December 15 for inclusion in the WREN.
Be sure to include the date, title, description, time, cost, location, address and contact information for each event.
Photos are always welcome.
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
Look for more events at wyomingrea.org/news.
& SUBMISSIONS:
wren@ wyomingrea.org
[307] 286-8140
214 W. Lincolnway Ste. 21C Cheyenne, WY 82001
wyomingrea.org/ wren-submissions
Storytime: 11am. Lyman Branch Library. All ages welcome. Free. Info: 307-787-6556, uintalibrary.org.
MOUNTAIN VIEW
MONDAYS
Cub Scout Pack 7798 Meeting: 3:45pm. Presbyterian Church on 3rd Street. We are always accepting new boys who are in grades 1-5. Info: MarNae, 307-677-2566.
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.
FOR SALE
New & Used Coal Stokers, parts, service & advice. Available for most makes. Thanks. 307-754-3757.
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 & 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 307-660-2402 relics@frontierauto.net.
CEMETERIES Our Last Resort
BY DOROTHY RIEKE
One evening, my uncle, as a young man, walked one-half mile north to a country gas station where he would meet friends. He visited with his friends until it grew quite late. Finally, near midnight, he was ready to walk down the road to his farm home. In order to reach his destination, he had to walk past the Catholic church and its cemetery.
Undoubtedly, he was so frightened at the thoughts of that cemetery so quiet and dark that his imagination began working overtime. Could he make out some figure standing near that grave?
Quickening his pace, he rushed along. Suddenly, there was a loud ear-splitting scream echoing across the countryside. His seemed to stand on end and he began racing down the road. His heart clamored in his chest, his legs felt like they were stretched to the limit, and his breathing came hard and fast.
Terrified, sweaty and exhausted, he finally reached the back door of the farmhouse. He threw open the door and staggered in, almost collapsing. Out of breath, he gasped his story to his dad who had waited up for him. His dad gave a logical explanation. An old house was located west along the road near the cemetery. Perhaps, someone in that house screamed. I don’t know if my uncle accepted that explanation, but I do know he never walked home alone at night past that cemetery again!
Yes, for some, cemeteries are frightening places, but cemeteries are intriguing because of the stories told there through monuments and epitaphs. The word “gravestone” comes from a Jewish custom in which the visitors to a grave placed stones at the head of the grave to honor the deceased. The first gravestones were boulders and heavy rocks that people thought would keep the deceased from “climbing out of their graves.” During the Victorian Era, in Europe, iron grills were placed over the gravestones to keep in the zombies and vampires.
Early gravestones were only used by the middle and upper classes to commemorate the life of a loved one. Markers were crafted from wood or rough stones or rocks. From 1780 to 1930, granite and marble came into use for more expensive gravestones. These, especially in Europe, were inscribed with winged skulls, skeletons and death angels, which frightened people, especially grave robbers who worked for medical schools with a constant need for dead bodies.
Years ago, because doctors had little knowledge of the human body, a person could be buried alive. If that individual was in a coma, he often was pronounced dead. A friend told us that his great grandfather was injured and fell into a coma. Nearly everyone believed that he was dead. However, his wife insisted over and over, “He is not dead!” Even though a coffin was made for him, his wife contended that he was alive and would not allow burial. After a few days, he awakened. He said the worst thing about being in a coma was hearing people talk of putting him in a coffin, nailing down the lid, and burying him.
In order to prevent these premature burials, a rope, attached to a bell in the
graveyard, was put in each coffin. If the person awakened, he shook the bell. Cemeteries were monitored at that time, so chances are, someone would hear that bell.
Anyone who has sneaked into a cemetery at night knows that he or she will face terror as well as experience seeing exquisite headstones outlined in the moonlight. A cemetery’s real character comes out at night, especially during times of bright moonlight. Many stories have been told about unusual occurrences in cemeteries, especially at night.
Some epitaphs are quite unusual, such as “In memory of Ellen Shannon Age 26 years who was fatally burned March 21, 1870, by the explosion of a lamp filled with R. E. Danforth’s non-explosive burning fluid.” “Here rests Pancrazio Juvenales 1968-1993. ‘He was a good husband, a wonderful father, but a bad electrician.’”
Cemeteries hold even more secrets than we can imagine. In cemeteries, only the brave can last as the night turns dark, the moon drops in the sky and tree limbs sway overhead, creating frightening shadow images. On the other hand, cemeteries pamper those who appreciate the beauty of nature, indulge those with vivid imaginations and cater to those with hearty appetites for the strange or unusual. In fact, exploring cemeteries combines history, natural beauty and unequaled pleasurefor most of us. W
There are a number of cemeteries in Wyoming that are haunted. The following are indeed haunted at times, some with scenes of frightful events:
1. A brave Native American woman, Sacajawea, led Lewis and Clark on their westward expedition. At this time, on Wind River Reservation at her gravesite, some claim that her spirit walks.
2. Mount Pisgah Cemetery, a pioneer era burial place, reportedly has ghosts such as a sunset jogger and a faceless bride.
3. Bellevue Memorial Cemetery with its famous Witches’ Circle, a circle of columns, is considered an eerie place with strange sounds!
4. Warren Cemetery is haunted by a beautiful female spirit, dressed in black, haunting the areas where the officers stayed.
5. Thermopolis’ Monument Hill Cemetery is also a place where spirits roam.
Dorothy Rieke was an English teacher for 44 years. She now writes from her home in Julian, Nebraska.
PLAY GRATEFUL for
Grab a Tai l Feather
How to Play
Think flag football but tag, where the object is to grab the tail feathers off of each other’s belt. The last person with at least one feather is the winner. You can make your belts with string and strips of construction paper or crepe paper streamers!
Play is where kids learn, grow, imagine, form relationships and human connections, gain self-confidence, take risks, laugh, have fun, and so much more. So enjoy your time together this
How to Play
Mark a finish line and then give everyone a spoon and a feather. Count 1-2-3 GO! so everyone races to the finish line while carrying their feather on their spoon. If your feather flutters off, yell “Gobble Gobble!” and take three steps back, then join the race again!
How to Play
Turkey Bowling
Prepare your “pins” with brown plastic cups: glue on googly eyes and an orange triangle beak cut from construction paper. Add feathers by attaching strips of paper in different colors to the backs of the cups. For your bowling ball, use anything you have around, like a tennis ball, bouncy ball, soccer ball, or even mini pumpkins!