LACK OF SNOW FORCES OWNER TO PULL PLUG ON SKI SEASON
BY MARK DAVIS Tribune senior reporter
Citing the lack of snow and the loss of seasonal staff, Sleeping Giant Ski Lodge will not open this year.
“With a heavy heart we are announcing that Sleeping Giant will not be opening for the 23/24 winter season. We would like to thank everyone for their support and patience as we battled this terrible weather year,” said Nick Piazza, owner of the lodge. The lodge is planning to refund season pass holders who opt out for the season. However, those who hold on to their passes will receive benefits from “friendly competitors” who have reached out to help Sleeping Giant as it faces the loss of their season. Snow King has decided to honor its offer of three free days of skiing “regardless of the fact that we're not going to be open,” Piazza said.
“That's a $300 value right there,” he said.
Red Lodge Mountain is also extending a helping hand, offering Sleeping Giant season pass holders to ski at half price for the whole season.
Those opting for a refund will receive the funds automatically to the accounts from which the passes were purchased later
See Giant, Page 3
ARCTIC BLAST
Greybull man charged with manslaughter for 2023 overdose in Cody
BY CJ BAKER Tribune staff writer
Last month, a Greybull man received a three- to five-year prison sentence for possessing and selling fentanyl-laced pills in Big Horn County. Now, Park County prosecutors are seeking
additional punishment for Anthony M. Fuentes, alleging some of his pills caused the death of a Cody man a year ago. Fuentes, 36, faces one felony count of conspiracy to deliver fentanyl and another of manslaughter in the new Park County case. Prosecutors specifically al-
lege that Fuentes “did recklessly kill” 25-year-old Jordan Jackson by providing him with counterfeit oxycodone pills. Lab testing showed the purported Percocet contained fentanyl — a much more potent painkiller — and authorities say Jackson fatally overdosed just hours after purchasing the two
NWC Student Center construction still on track
As the new student center progress gets into the final stretch, Northwest College is already preparing for another phase of construction: Turning the temporary dining center into a soccer facility.
pills from Fuentes for $80. He was found dead on the morning of Jan. 3, 2023. Investigators with the Cody Police Department and the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation quickly identified Fuentes as a suspect. Charging documents say an individual had told DCI back
in March 2021 that they believed Fuentes was selling counterfeit oxycodone tablets and his number was the only one saved in a private messaging app on Jackson’s phone. With Fuentes unaware of
See Overdose, Page 2
The student center completion is still expected by the fall, as Watson said mild winter weather so far has allowed workers to proceed quickly. She noted the framing crew “has been amazing.”
At Thursday’s State of the College address, President Lisa Watson announced to the assembled faculty and staff that, to prepare for the switch, the Johnson Fitness Center would once again be used as the temporary dining facility until the new student center is completed.
“We were able to gain some time the last couple of months,” she said.
Even the one hiccup now hasn’t yet held them back. Watson said windows have been an issue, as many have been broken while being delivered, causing delays in installation. However, she said crews have still been able to proceed with interior work.
“Overall with everything else we’re still good to go,” she said. — By
Zac Taylor
Shoot Like a Woman
BY MARK DAVIS Tribune senior reporter
Wanting to explore the Big Horn Basin’s many backcountry wonders but not wanting to do so alone, noted conservation photographer Kathy Lichtendahl called a friend, hoping to find a hiking partner. She called on Christine Garceau, Northwest College Photo-
graphic Communications professor, who has a doctorate in tech communications and a love for documenting the area’s awesome landscapes and wildlife. Over coffee, Lichtendahl pitched the idea of forming a group of like-minded female photographers. Garceau immediately agreed and in January of 2014 they founded Shoot Like a Woman. This month they celebrate the 10th anniversary of the small, but mighty collaboration.
“No matter how physically or mentally strong you are, for a woman to go out in the wild by herself and try and photograph is very challenging,” Lichtendahl said. “Even more so for women who are moving into the area and had never
ANTHONY FUENTES
Workers brave the cold to work on the exterior of the new Northwest College Student Center building, which remains on schedule for an August completion. Tribune photo by Mark Davis
Students head to the parking lot Friday after school at Powell High School with sub-zero temperatures already making going outdoors hurt. Tribune photo by Mark Davis
Downtown Powell is almost deserted Sunday night as snow falls and temperatures remained below zero.
short period, before heading down again at day’s end. Tribune photo by Mark Davis
Three Southside Elementary School students brave Friday’s cold weather. Temperatures dipped to as low as minus 28 last weekend in Powell, not including the windchill factor, according to the National Weather Service. Tribune photo by Braden Schiller
Members of Shoot Like a Woman and some of their significant others stop for a photo in Clarks Fork Canyon. Only female photographers can be a part of the group, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary,
may tag along for
monthly hike. Photo courtesy of Kathy Lichtendahl
County prioritizes delivery time, reliability with large vehicle purchases
BY ZAC TAYLOR Tribune editor
Park County Public Works is getting two dump trucks and a heavy haul tractor, but they're not going to be driving two of the three anytime soon. On Tuesday Park County Commissioners approved two new dump trucks and a heavy haul tractor for a total of nearly $800,000, minus more than $100,000 for trade-ins. The dump trucks, however, a Western Star from Floyd's Truck Center of Casper with an up-fit from Minnesota company J Craft, are expected to be delivered in April 2025.
"We're going to have to do some creative things with our budget to make sure we don't forget that," County Engineer Brian Edwards said. Part of the reason he said he was recommending spending $18,000 more for the Peterbilt heavy haul tractor from Peterbilt of Wyoming, at $207,234, was that they will be able to get that vehicle this spring, while the other two options were expected at the end of this year or in 2025 like the dump
trucks.
“That’s not bad in this truck climate,” he said. “It’s a pretty important expenditure for us and we try to get 400,000-500,000 miles out of them.”
‘It’s a pretty important expenditure for us and we try to get 400,000500,000 miles out of them.’
Brian Edwards County engineer
Edwards said Peterbilt tractors are also well respected by his crew for their durability and known for their reliability and ability to hold their value, while the two other options, while cheaper, were newer more “unknown” models.
that law enforcement officers
Jackson’s death, DCI decided to use Jackson’s phone to reach out to Fuentes and ask for more pills.
“Without a second passing Fuentes immediately replied, stating ‘Yep,’” DCI Special Agent Shane Reece recounted in a charging affidavit. Fuentes reportedly directed the undercover agent to pick up two pills from the driver’s seat of a 1996 Chevy parked outside Fuentes’ Greybull home.
Fuentes arrived at the truck a short time later to collect his $80, but was instead arrested by DCI agents.
In a subsequent search of Fuentes’ home, authorities found a misdemeanor amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, while 13 more fentanyl-laced pills were found in his Chevy.
After his arrest, Fuentes reportedly admitted that he’d obtained approximately 40 pills in Denver in late 2022 and had sold a large portion. Charging documents say that included selling pills to Jackson “on multiple occasions.”
In interviews with Fuentes that are quoted in court filings, Agent Reece reportedly described the suspect as the “low man on the totem pole in this” and pressed him for information about where the “bad fentanyl” was coming from.
“There’s a lot of dead people in this state and it’s going to get worse,” Reece said in one January 2023 interview. When Fuentes said he knew
“want the bigger fish,” the agent said that wasn’t the issue.
“It’s f—ing bodies dropping,” Reece responded.
“No, I know, believe me,” Fuentes reportedly replied, “and I want the way out.”
At another point, he’s quoted as telling the agent that “I do not want to be in any of this mess from now on.”
Last summer, Fuentes decided to plead guilty to all five charges brought by the Big Horn County Attorney’s Office: two felony counts of delivering a controlled substance, two felony counts of possessing a controlled substance with intent to deliver and a misdemeanor count of possessing a controlled substance.
At a July hearing in Big Horn County District Court, Fuentes admitted he’d delivered the four pills to Reece and Jackson in early January 2023. However, Fuentes said he didn’t know the pills contained fentanyl until DCI told him.
“I was unaware,” he testified, telling the court that he believed the pills he’d delivered were Percocet. That brand name version of oxycodone is also classified as a schedule II controlled substance, but is not as potent as fentanyl.
However, Big Horn County Prosecuting Attorney Marcia Bean objected to Fuentes’ testimony, arguing in a filing that the defendant was trying to minimize his crimes and “avoid the possibility of additional charges out of Park County.”
(At Fuentes’ very first court
appearance, the prosecutor had warned of a pending manslaughter charge.)
Bean noted that, in his interviews with DCI, Fuentes never disputed the pills were fentanyl — though in the excerpts she highlighted, Fuentes never explicitly admitted to having fentanyl, either.
Presiding District Court Judge Bobbi Overfield ultimately decided she couldn’t accept Fuentes’ guilty pleas to the fentanyl-related charges given his testimony, but the parties resolved the issue mid-August by having Fuentes plead no contest.
His admissions came without any kind of plea deal, leaving it up to Overfield to craft the appropriate sentence. At a December hearing, the judge imposed a three- to five-year prison sentence — with credit for the year he’s already served — followed by three years of supervised probation; if Fuentes violates that probation, he’ll face the possibility of another eight to 10 years behind bars.
Deputy Park County Attorney Jack Hatfield filed the new conspiracy and manslaughter charges on the day of Fuentes’ sentencing in Basin, and he was transferred to the Cody jail last week.
The new counts could theoretically carry up to 60 years of additional prison time.
At Hatfield’s recommendation, Park County Circuit Court Judge Joey Darrah set bond at $100,000 in the case.
A preliminary hearing is tentatively scheduled for Thursday.
This is an old photo of one of the two dump trucks Park County is replacing with two new trucks which won’t arrive until the spring of 2025. Photo courtesy Park County Public Works
Donna Marrie Johnson
(Aug. 30, 1936 - Jan. 9, 2024)
Donna Marrie (Kanzler) Johnson passed away on Jan. 9, 2024, at Powell Valley Hospital. Donna was born in Bayard, Nebraska on Aug. 30, 1936 to John Sr. and Mary Kanzler.
Donna grew up in Nebraska calling several communities home. She met her future husband Harry Johnson in Nebraska and they were married on Aug. 25, 1961 in Gering, Nebraska. After living in various Nebraska towns, they settled in Scottsbluff. Three children; Randy, Gary and Debbie joined their family.
Donna spent the majority of her life as a homemaker and interspersed that with working at Western Sugar. She took a job working in the laundry room at the nursing home and Harry volunteered in order to be close to her. After she retired she started working at McDon-
Myron C.
‘Mike’ Fellows
(May 2, 1952 - Jan. 7, 2024)
Myron C. “Mike” Fellows, 71, of Cody, passed away on Jan. 7, 2024. Mike was born in Igloo, South Dakota on May 2, 1952 to Richard and Lorraine Fellows. Mike was the second oldest of 10 siblings. In the summer of 1967 Richard and Lorraine moved their family from South Dakota to Cody, Wyoming. Instead of finishing high school, Mike enlisted in the United States Army in December of 1969. During his time in the Army Mike got to spend time with his uncle George Chalmers. Many times they were stationed near to each other. The stories that those two can tell! During this time Mike married his first wife Gerry and they had two children together, Myron Jr. and Lori.
In May of 1972 Mike was discharged from the Army. Mike returned to Wyoming and worked various jobs in several cities in Wyoming. In the summer of 1976 Mike decided to
Patsy Ruth Garner
(Sept. 27, 1936 - Jan. 10, 2024)
Patsy Ruth Garner passed away peacefully on Jan. 10, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on Sept. 27, 1936, in Porum, Oklahoma to Nathaniel and Ruth Spears, Patsy was a pillar of strength and eternal love for all who were fortunate enough to know her.
She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother whose nurturing spirit touched the lives of generations.
As the oldest of four children, Patsy was a true leader. She was always heading each adventure and encouraging her siblings to try new things. She always had new ideas up her sleeve, sparking the imagination of those around her. Her infectious enthusiasm inspired her siblings to embrace curiosity, welcoming each new experience with open hearts.
Patsy married Ronald Singer on May 16, 1953. Their union brought forth the arrivals of Steve in 1955, Daren in 1957 and Victor in 1961. Their journey together gave them many happy years and the two remained lifelong friends. Later in life, Patsy met the love of her life, Max Garner, and
OBITUARIES
ald’s just to keep busy. Not long after that she moved to Powell to live with her son Randy and daughter-in-law, Hazel Kanzler. She lived with them nearly seven years and enjoyed going to church at the Garland Community Church every Sunday. Donna enjoyed seeing her great-granddaughter when she stayed with her when her mother, CeCe, was working. They played everything a little girl loves to play and baked peanut butter cookies for everyone to enjoy. Special times were spent with Randy shopping at Walmart, even though they would often get separated, she could hardly wait for the next time they would go shopping.
the horses across the road and the birds flying in and out of the trees gathering at the bird feeders.
Donna enjoyed crocheting doilies and slippers. Many times she would start the project and turn it over to Hazel to finish.
Eating lunch and watching “The Young and Restless” with her daughter-in-law Hazel was a daily event. Animals always intrigued her and each day was complete when she observed
return home to Cody. Soon after returning Mike met the love of his life, Cheryl Feller. The two of them dated for 1 1/2 years, then Mike asked Cheryl for her hand in marriage. The two married on Jan. 7, 1978. They had one child together, Amy.
For many years Mike was known around the Big Horn Basin as the water man. In 2014 Mike started working as a custodian at Livingston Elementary. Mike was known there by all as Mr. Mike. Mike enjoyed reading to the students. Also, every year Mike would dress up as the Mayor of Whoville for the Grinch celebration. In November of 2007 Mike and Cheryl welcomed their only grandchild into their lives, Madison. Madison was the center of his world. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his family or talking about his family. Mike loved to spend time with family and friends. Mike enjoyed hunting and fishing.
Donna is survived by her sister Loretta Schmall of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, her son Randy (Hazel) Kanzler of Powell; son Gary Johnson of Gering, Nebraska, 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
Donna was preceded in death by her parents John and Mary Kanzler, her daughter Debbie Hauck (Ronnie), brothers John Jr. Kanzler, Harold Kanzler and Melvin Kanzler; sisters Lillian Dietz, Dorathy Kobobel and June Ring.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024 at 11 a.m. at the Garland Community Church in Garland, Wyoming.
He enjoyed teaching his little fishing buddy Madi how to fish and eat them the “Poppie way!” In December of 2011, Mike lost the love of his life Cheryl to cancer. And even though she is gone, the love he had for her never ended.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Lorraine, brother John, and his wife Cheryl.
Mike is survived by his son Myron Jr. (Renea) of Glenrock, Wyoming; daughters Lori (Bruce) of Sacramento, California; and Amy (Alan) of Cody, Wyoming; granddaughter Madison; brothers Richard (Susan), Ira (Vicki), Doug (Lilie), Leslie (Judy), Terry and Dale; and sisters Sonya (Lonnie) and Sue (Lynn); uncle George (Okcha), and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be at Cody House of Prayer Evangelical Church on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024 at 10 a.m. Visitation will be from 9-10 a.m. Memories and condolences can be shared on Mike’s memorial page at BallardFH.com.
the two were married on Feb. 22, 1969. Their union not only brought them together but also blended their families, welcoming Maxie as a daughter. Patsy truly was one of a kind. Her artistic abilities shone brightly in her various endeavors, showcasing her talents in fashion design by crafting garments for occasions ranging from Easter Sunday to Rock & Roll-themed events. She translated her creative flair into entrepreneurship as the proud owner of MG Men's store in Powell. Her culinary expertise took root in Grandma Singer's kitchen, where she imbibed the essence of her mother's southern cuisine making sure her family was always well fed. Patsy further honed her skills through formal education in cake decoration, contributing her talents to the bakery at Max's Super Market and Cassie's Supper Club. As the matriarch, Patsy seamlessly transitioned from being a dedicated mother and a successful businesswoman to becoming our cherished Granny. Nothing made her light up faster than when a grandkid or two walked through her front door. Patsy was known for her unwavering love, compassion and the joy she found in simple plea-
sures. Her kitchen was a haven of warmth and delicious aromas, where she shared not only meals but also a lifetime of wisdom and stories. Her legacy is woven into the fabric of our family, and her teachings of kindness, resilience and love will endure for generations to come. Her love and warmth enriched the lives of those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of family and friends. Patsy was preceded in death by her parents, Nathaniel and Ruth Spears, husband, Max Garner, her sons, Steven and Victor Singer, and the father of her sons, Ronald Singer.
She is survived by her son Daren Singer and her daughter Maxie (David) Lynn, her sister Shirley Cox, her brothers Harold (Sylvie) Kimmery and Mike (Barb) Kimmery, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends and family who will forever be grateful for the love and guidance she provided.
A memorial service to celebrate Patsy Garner's life will be held on Jan. 19, 2024 at 10 a.m., at St. Barbara's Catholic Church in Powell, Wyoming. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Cody High School's Culinary Arts Program.
Giant: Recently invested $100K for snowmaking equipment
Continued from Page 1
this month. Any complimentary passes for the 23/24 season automatically carry over to next season. The same applies for passes that were part of any promotion, charity giveaway or raffle.
“We will go lick our wounds, and — I am confident — come back stronger,” Piazza said.
The team will now begin working on several longstanding projects that were on hold when operating. They are also in discussions with the U.S. Forest Service and Techno Alpine to get a jump on improvements to the lodge’s snow making system in the spring.
The lodge had a breakdown of underground pipes late last year, making it impossible to
make enough snow to open over the holiday season, which accounts for the majority of revenue for the entire year.
“Our chance at profitability really depends on those last two weeks in December,” he said.
Sleeping Giant invested $100K for new snowmaking equipment recently, but the aging piping network for water on the mountain now needs to be replaced. It won’t be cheap, he said.
‘We will go lick our wounds, and — I am confident — come back stronger.’
Nick Piazza Lodge owner
“If you're pulling stuff out of the ground, it's probably going to make sense to pull all of it,” he said.
This coming March the team of managers — who have all been on standby pay this season — will meet to discuss the summer season. Red Lodge Mountain opened in late November. Yet, while they have a reported base of 12-23 inches, the lack of snow has led to some businesses being closed in downtown Red Lodge in what some are calling the worst season in decades. After a few inches fell over the weekend, the lodge was forced to delay opening Monday due to brutal temperatures recorded near minus-50 windchill.
Larry French will be putting on an information meeting on January 17 at 2 p.m. at the Weed and Pest building.
Larry markets Legend seed products including seed for corn grain and silage, alfalfa seed, and others.
Larry also markets biological products for Yield Master Solutions. These include Nitrogen fixing bacteria, phosphorus enhancement and manure management products. Please join us for product information that can improve your bottom line.
larryjfrench1950@gmail.com
Larry French, 307-272-9194 Powell, Wyoming
30,000 COPIES Distributed throughout Wyoming, Montana, Idaho & the Dakotas!
DONNA JOHNSON
MIKE FELLOWS
PATSY GARNER
NWC works to give students what they want
More potential and current students are looking for programs that allow them to more quickly get out into the business world in their career of choice.
At Thursday’s State of the College address Northwest College
President Lisa Watson said that nationwide trend is reflected at the Powell campus, so the college is working to meet that goal.
In December the college board approved two programs with that objective in mind. That included a paramedic certificate that can provide adequate training for those not interested in the added time and expense to get a degree, and a software development associate associate’s degree for those looking to do more practical computer work and proceed to a bachelor’s degree at UW. The program is for people who want to avoid the more grueling and often more graduate level computer science programs. Even better, the college is now preparing to reach out to the community and students for what other programs they’d like to see that would fill a need, while enlightening the public on what are the most popular programs at NWC.
As someone who grew up in a time and place where only a four-year degree was seen as the way to advancement, it’s great to see this change to more directed programs that allow many people to learn what they really need and more quickly enter their chosen profession, or rise to a new level in it.
Watson said area high schools, whose students have lately been a big assist to sometimes struggling enrollments through dual and concurrent enrollment classes, are also looking at certificates and other programs through the college that could give students a boost.
As a parent of two kids in the Powell school system, all I can say is, “keep it coming.” Even if my boys want to pursue further education, why not have a good skill in hand or a jump start on a trade? I can tell you my brother doesn’t regret going back to school to be an electrician — and making good money already as an apprentice — even though he already has a bachelor’s degree in a different field.
It’s a new age for education. Students and parents alike are looking at degrees much more practically (at least compared to me and my numerous choice of majors through three universities). It’s good to see NWC taking that cue and running with it.
Can’t understand how Barrasso could endorse
Donald Trump
Dear editor:
In an age when information (and misinformation) is increasingly distributed based on algorithms which tend to promote confirmation bias as opposed to facts, it might be appropriate to review the public record as it relates to Donald Trump: Trump University was convicted of fraud in civil court, forced to pay $25 million in fines, and was closed; The Trump Foundation was found guilty of fraud in criminal court, was forced to pay $2 million in fines, and was closed; Donald Trump was found guilty in civil court of sexual abuse and defamation of E. Jean Carroll and forced to pay $5 million in fines; The Trump Organization was found guilty of fraud in criminal court; penalties pending; The Trump Organization, Donald Trump, and his sons Eric and Don Jr. were found guilty of fraud in a civil court; penalties pending. Additionally, Donald Trump faces 91 felony criminal counts relating to the mishandling of classified documents and his role in what is now called the Jan. 6 Insurrection.
I can certainly understand Donald Trump’s appeal to that portion of the populace most interested in the type of government known colloquially as “Owning the Libs.” As a self-proclaimed “Lib” myself, there is no one I find less suited to an office of public trust. What I can’t understand is how a U.S. senator like John Barrasso can endorse such a man for the highest office in the land. Turns out, physicians don’t really
To plow or not to plow that &%$# plug
Twenty years back when we lived in Powell, the plug between Wyo. Highway 296 and the northeast gate of Yellowstone was a topic of anger and angst and had been for years even then. I see nothing has changed. Still a big rhubarb. Still not plowed. I come to you today to provide guidance through this morass of possibilities, options and opinions. The fact I am presently a clueless flatlander should make no difference at all, but of course it will and it should, to folks in northwest Wyoming up into Montana.
Some small volume of research on this topic via the internet and a conversation with my good friend Mark Davis of this newspaper reveal this to be a complex quandary. One not so easily solved. But let’s poke at the bear anyway just for fun. Turns out the few hearty citizens of Cooke City and Silver Gate who inexplicably squat in place and ride out winter have few options to obtain anything from a loaf of bread to openheart surgery. That 9-mile obstacle of unplowed snow is a barrier only breached in winter by over-the-snow conveyances, primarily sleds (or snowmobiles as all corn heads but me know them).
Our knee-jerk reaction is to pity these poor souls and do all we can to help. Our second thought is to acknowledge the obvious; they do it to themselves by denying common sense and hibernating there in self-afflicted isolation winter after winter after winter. Far easier to save a lot of trouble and abandon them in their misery. I can see a measure of merit both ways. Next, we are confronted, literally in this case, by boisterous recreational users who cannot — nay, will not — abide plowing the plug under any circumstances. Ever. Their rigidity has merit, too, I have learned. Plowing would destroy a route that leads to wonderful trails into the magnificent surrounding mountains and eliminate parking for their rigs altogether.
cost to plow those not-so-measly 9 miles, too. Turns out the sheer volume of snow in that stretch over the course of winter could well require 24-hour plowing to keep ahead of the incredible volume that dumps on that country every winter. We’re talking millions and millions of dollars.
What rational person, even a lowly flatlander such as myself, would disparage these adventurers who drive winter commerce to Cooke City and Silver Gate at a time of year when the rest of us lack the gumption?
I have been educated on the
Wyoming and Montana could share this I bet, but why would they want to take on the incredible logistical challenge, never mind the astronomical cost.
Hmm, not such a simple plug after all as it turns out. I read that for decades local residents and businesses as a rule wanted no part of plowing, however in recent years that stance may be softening. A story I found online told of a lady who keeps her truck on the east side of the plug, then crosses over and back on a sled so she can get to Cody for a spool of thread, to have a family broken bone tended, her hair and nails done or whatever. The alternative to go west further into Montana is said to be double the distance to Gardiner, never mind
Livingston. What to do? I respectfully propose something of a plowing test run. How else to know what will happen but to try it at least one time?
What to do is wait until, oh, say the last couple weeks in April, then blast it open for just three days. No more, then let it snow closed again. Not so much to ask in the quest to find a permanent solution. Wyoming and Montana would bother themselves with only a couple phone calls to hire a contractor, one with really big machines, and simply split the cost of this wee experiment.
Entirely by happy coincidence, two fellow Husker photographer buddies, my friend Don and my other friend Don, joined of course by the aforementioned Mark when we get there, are at this very time putting together a late winter camera safari in the Lamar Valley just then. It will be a Thursday, Friday and Saturday, probably April 18-20 or 25-27. We’ll notify the appropriate agencies soon so planning can commence. Please do not take offense, Livingston, we’ll look in on you another time. What do you have going on in July? A summer festival perhaps?
take the Hippocratic Oath. Senators do, however, take an oath to support and defend the Constitution. Apparently, for presidents and senators alike, that appears to be a meaningless and antiquated gesture.
Phil Anthony Powell
Park County has sexual assault nurse examiners
Dear editor:
In response to a very unpleasant event for a child, parent, school, police and medical personal and any others involved, I see an opportunity for community awareness. Why do I say this?
As a nurse for 47 years, with a variety of experience and a forensic nurse certificate, I would hate to see anyone else go through a similar experience without making our community aware of expert services available.
A question was posed in an article written and published in the Cody Enterprise asking, “Does a physician need a special certificate to determine sexual trauma?” My response to this is, “Yes.” We all need to know our limitations. I am, inherently aware, that over the years forensic nursing and sexual assault nursing has moved to the forefront for hospitals, police, courts, physicians and especially the victims in providing evidence. However, we should not forget how important it is to exhibit care, concern and compassion for the victim(s) and families involved.
A question I have, is do we in Park County have a Sexual Assault Response Team (SART ) or Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) team or nurse? Yes, we do! So, we have an opportunity here to make our community aware of these well-trained
nurses and help victims and families in distress. It is of the utmost importance that our community is made aware of these skilled and trained resources and utilize it.
I end with a question for everyone and anyone. If you (female or male) were put into an assault situation, would you not want the best-trained personal aiding in the evidence collection, documentation, photos, court appearances working with our police personal? Or someone who may be questioning if they are the right one for this tragedy, because they do not have the training/certification?
It is sad that we say to ourselves, “This could never happen here.” However, it can and will. Let’s be prepared to help our community know and understand what is best for the victim, family and community. Working together gets great results! Awareness of the resources we have available is the key.
Diana Mugno Cody
If Yellowstone wants to push tourist buses, start with bussing employees
Dear editor:
In the May 28, 2019 edition of the Powell Tribune, Yellowstone Superintendent, Cam Sholly, listed five “major strategic priorities.” Number two was, “Understanding and responding to the effects of climate change.”
Twice in two years, I have visited Gardiner, Montana, for the purpose of counting park employee private vehicles commuting to work via their exclusive access road east of Roosevelt Arch. The vast majority went up the hill
to Mammoth.
Average count on two mornings in 2022 and one morning in 2023 was 150 vehicles each day. Observation times were from 5-9 a.m. on all days — two in December 2022, and one in November 2023. I felt there was no need for another day of counting cars in 2023. Some things are obvious.
From 1996 to 2022 a full size 42-passenger motor coach hauled park employees from Livingston, Montana, to Mammoth. This coach has been replaced by two 15-passenger shuttles. One begins and ends in Livingston each day, the other begins and ends in Emigrant, Montana. The shuttles both have government tags, and are never filled to capacity. The same was true of the larger motor coach. Allow me to jog your memory with some relevant, seemingly trivial newspaper headlines: Billings Gazette, July 26, 2006 — “Report: Warming hurting parks”; Billings Gazette, June 27, 2009 — “House OKs contentious climate bill”; Bozeman Daily Chronicle, Nov. 27, 2010 — “Climate is changing Yellowstone”; Cody Enterprise, Sept. 28, 2011 — “GYC: YNP suffering from climate change”; Powell Tribune, Dec. 4, 2014 — “Climate is Changing”; Billings Gazette, Dec. 27, 2015 — “Study: “Winters warming in Yellowstone”; Powell Tribune, Sept. 13, 2018 — “Changing climate concerns Yellowstone scientists.”
Last but not least, and out of chronological order: Sept. 4, 2016, Billings Gazette headline: “Climate change questions at YNP.” In that article, Yellowstone Center for Resources Director Jennifer Carpenter, stated, “Right now we’ve got a pretty small program in the park, and my intention is to grow that program so we can better meet the challenges of climate change in terms of what our response might be.” Some things are obvious. Growing a “program” is more important than an imme-
diate goal-minded response. Here is my response: Immediately put the daily commuters on shuttles from Gardiner. This will reduce carbon emissions in the park, and ease congestion on the narrow and steep temporary Old Gardiner Road. Bus funding? Simple. Number five on Sholly’s List: “Build coalitions and partnerships.” Mr. Sholly can tap into, as he put it, an “incredibly generous philanthropic community.” Greater Yellowstone Coalition — GYC — immediately comes to mind.
Yellowstone’s quaint little money laundering operation, Yellowstone Forever, peddles climate change field seminars, and operates guided tours on shuttle buses. They are experienced in climate change and bussing. They might even offer consulting services.
Former Yellowstone Superintendent Mike Finley developed the first employee bus route from Livingston in 1996. Is he still with the Turner Foundation? Give him a jingle, Mr. Sholly. How about good ol’ fashioned shake downs? Look to Hollywood. Shame them into saving Yellowstone through the new BUS program — Buses Unquestionably Save! Suggestion: If, by chance, a wandering star found himself in hot water in the park, he should make restitution with a contribution. Lobby for added fines — much like victim restitution — to help fund BUS.
Step back and look at your operation, Mr. Sholly. Before requiring the public to board buses to ease congestion and protect park resources, lead by example. Otherwise, zip it! As for media, why am I doing your job? How about an exposé on the real National Park Service once in a while? Hold them accountable.
Steve Torrey Cody
STEVE MOSELEY The Flatlander’s View
REGION REGION
Latest forecast:
BY HANNAH SHIELDS Wyoming Tribune Eagle Via Wyoming News Exchange
CHEYENNE — In advance of the upcoming budget session, the Wyoming Legislature’s wallet to appropriate funds for budget requests is expected to shrink by $13.3 million.
An updated Consensus Revenue Estimating Group (CREG) report informed members of the Legislature’s Joint Appropriations Committee they had $37.3 million in discretionary funds to spend this year.
The CREG report is a forecast of the state’s total revenue and assets. It includes estimates of Wyoming’s mineral prices and production, General Fund revenues, severance taxes, federal mineral royalties, the Common School Land Income Account and state royalties.
CREG co-Chair Don Richards said this was a “modest” update to the revenue forecast.
robust pace, according to the report.
$13.3M
LESS
AVAILABLE FOR STATE SPENDING
The state has paid out $13.3 million worth of sales and use taxes to impacted local municipalities during the first five months, from July through November, and Richards said the state is “on pace” to pay out anywhere from $20 million to $30 million this fiscal year.
MINERAL PRICE AND PRODUCTION
Oil production is projected to increase by 5 million barrels through the end of the 2023 calendar year, to a total of 95 million. CREG had already forecasted a production of 95 million oil barrels per year, but Wyoming “just got there a year quicker,” Richards said.
‘Either the prices do have to edge up, recognizing limitations on supply, or the five forecasters writ large are wrong.’
“More than one CREG member or associate reflected in early January whether an update was needed at all,” Richards told lawmakers Friday. However, a snowball of different adjustments to the report within CREG showed a need for an update, where Richards explained the significant changes that impacted the reduced forecast.
SALES AND USE TAX
Don Richards CREG co-chair
The CREG forecasted an increase of General Fund sales and use tax collections by $10 million in its latest report, totaling $651.7 million for the current fiscal year.
Industrial projects, such as the construction of windmills in different counties, strengthened sales and use taxes in the first six months of FY 2024. Windmill projects in Albany County have “largely driven” the
“In the (past) calendar year, we’re highly confident we’ll hit that 95 million, as there’s only a couple months left to report,” Richards said.
Oil prices, on the other hand, are expected to decrease in the 2024 calendar year, from $80 a barrel to $75.
Richards said oil prices have decreased steadily since the October CREG report.
The limitations of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) have not impacted market prices, Richards said. Rep. Lloyd Larsen (RLander) asked if production was influenced by changes largely seen in South Africa and Venezuela.
“Does that kind of offset some of that decline we thought we would see from OPEC?” Larsen asked.
Richards confirmed it did, including “record production” from the U.S.
“We appear to have soft demand, although there is strong production in the U.S. and other non-OPEC nations,” he said.
CREG forecasts are in line with other forecasters, such as Wall Street investment firms.
“At some point over the next year, some-
thing has to give. Either the prices do have to edge up, recognizing limitations on supply, or the five forecasters writ large are wrong,” he said.
K12 EDUCATION FUNDING, STATE ROYALTIES
Funding for K-12 education is, in part, dependent on the assessed valuation of minerals, known as the mineral ad valorem tax. Revisions in this tax revenue showed an increase for the 2023 calendar year of $8.9 million, but an anticipated decrease for the 2024 calendar year by $26.9 million.
CREG forecasted bonuses totaling $3.1 million on school lands in the current fiscal year, based on actual receipts from the first six months that are higher than anticipated. However, state mineral royalties collected on school lands “are demonstrably behind the October 2023 forecast.”
As a result, CREG decreased its forecast by $10 million for the actual first six months of collections.
The decrease in these mineral prices and adjustments also decreased federal mineral royalties by $10.2 million in the 2023-24 biennium, split between the Budget Reserve Account (-$6.1 million) and the School Foundation Program Reserve Account (-$4.1 million).
The School Foundation program account, Richards said, is “kind of the funnel where all the ultimate actions of savings and spending reside.”
In response to the updated CREG report, Gov. Mark Gordon said, “The January CREG forecast reinforces the importance of a conservative approach to budgeting. With the possibility of our minerals commanding lower prices, leading to reduced severance tax revenue, Wyoming may need to lean harder on investment income.
“Placing surplus revenues into savings ensures Wyoming is well prepared for the challenges facing our legacy industries due to Biden administration policies.”
The budget session begins at the Wyoming State Capitol on Feb. 12.
Mental illness awareness group holds kickoff event
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is returning to Park County, and the community is invited to join the celebration at its kickoff event on Thursday, Jan. 25. The event, which marks the re-establishment of NAMI in the area after a few years of absence, aims to raise awareness about mental health and provide a platform for local mental health care providers and organizations.
NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of
Americans affected by mental illness. Comprising families, individuals and advocates, it works to raise awareness, provide education and advocate for mental health policies. NAMI envisions a world where mental health is prioritized, and affected individuals receive the support, understanding and opportunities they deserve. By participating in the event, the Cody community can engage with NAMI’s mission to destigmatize mental health issues, foster understanding and build a caring network for those impacted by mental illness.
There are two options for community members and mental health professionals to participate in the festivities. The first option is a free lunch at Cody Regional Health’s Pitchfork Room from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring speakers around noon. The second option is a late afternoon gathering with pizza at the Grizzly Room at the Cody Public Library from 4-6 p.m., with speakers scheduled at 5.
Various mental health organizations, including the Department of Family Services, Downrange Warriors, the Li-
brary Telehealth group, and the CISM Team of Search and Rescue, will have informational tables for attendees to visit.
NAMI welcomes other interested organizations to participate by contacting them via their Facebook page or speaking to a NAMI member.
Highlighting the importance of community support, the event sets the stage for the upcoming NAMI networking group, a Family-to-Family Support Group, scheduled for the spring. Sammi Strow, who will lead the group, is among the speakers at the events.
Of Wyoming adults read PUBLIC NOTICES in print or digital newspapers.
Representatives convene in the Wyoming State House chambers last year. This year’s budget session starts in February. Tribune photo by Michael Smith
SHERIFF’S REPORT
Individuals
DECEMBER
n
n
n
YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND IN ME
seeing two dead deer lying in the highway at Road 19/U.S. Highway 14A in the Powell area.
POLICE REPORT
Individuals are presumed to be innocent and charges listed are only allegations.
DECEMBER 23
area helped cows avoid cars.
n 4:49 p.m. A chocolate Lab with a limp on Wyo. Highway 120S in the Cody area was returned to its owner.
DECEMBER 21
n 3:21 p.m. Deputies assisted on a motor vehicle crash where one vehicle left the scene at 16th Street/Sheridan Avenue in Cody.
n 5:24 p.m. A Lab mix in custody on 14th Street in Cody was returned to its owner.
n 5:56 p.m. Deputies assisted another agency with a fight in progress on Sheridan Avenue in the Cody area.
n 7:27 p.m. A caller on Wyo. Highway 120S in the Cody area said he heard a female at a nearby residence scream twice and then yell danger. Deputies were unable to locate the source of the yelling.
DECEMBER 22
n 8:16 a.m. Two donkeys and two horses were reported on the loose from Lane 14 in the Powell area and the caller was out looking for them. The horses were returned to their owner.
n 3:15 p.m. A case was opened after a woman said she had a friend who went to pick up dogs on Road 18 in the Powell area and they were not being taken care of.
n 5:48 p.m. A driver on 11th Street and Sheridan Avenue in Cody was cited for expired registration.
n 8:14 p.m. Dead raccoons were reported at MP 1 on Wyo. Highway 291 in the Cody area.
DECEMBER 23
n 1:18 p.m. A deputy assisted on a slide off at River View Drive/ Wyo. Highway 120N in the Cody area.
n 2:17 p.m. A deputy assisted with a vehicle slide off at Wall Street/ County Road 6WX in the Cody area.
n 4:57 p.m. A case was opened following a two vehicle crash at MP 10 on U.S. Highway 14A in the Cody area.
DECEMBER 24
n
DECEMBER 25
n 11:52 p.m. A woman on Saddle Hill in the Meeteetse area reported a neighbor’s dogs on her property. Deputies provided assistance.
n 12:01 p.m. Items were reportedly taken from a shop on Lane 11 in the Powell area. A case was opened.
n 3:15 p.m. A trailer on Lakeshore Circle in the Cody area reported to have a window and outside light broken. Deputies provided assistance.
n 10:02 p.m. A deputy assisted on
n 5:57 p.m. A resident on West Seventh Street reported a man came to their door looking for someone who didn’t live there. The man also appeared the previous night. An officer checked the area but did not locate the subject.
n 6:54 p.m. An officer responded to a complaint about a vehicle spinning around North Beckman Street and driving around the block over and over again. The officer did not observe anything of concern or locate the vehicle, but did see marks where the vehicle had been spinning around.
n 9:22 p.m. Officers responded to a domestic disturbance on North Day Street where they were advised it was a verbal argument and the situation was mediated.
DECEMBER 24
n 2:15 a.m. Officers responded to a report of an intoxicated underage male driving around the area of East Fifth Street. The officers located the vehicle parked, and after investigation, an 18-year-old Cody resident was cited for underage drinking. Also cited was a 20-year-old Powell resident for illegal possession of nicotine. Additionally, two juveniles were cited for under 21 possession of alcohol and illegal possession of nicotine and a case was opened.
n 4:42 a.m. A caller on North Bent Street reported damage to property. An officer responded and placed the case under investigation.
n 6:14 p.m. A theft on East South Street was reported and the case was placed under investigation.
DECEMBER 25
n 9:27 a.m. An officer assisted in checking the welfare of a person on West Coulter Avenue.
n 3:16 p.m. Yard decorations were reported stolen on South Hamilton Street. An officer responded and placed the case under investigation.
DECEMBER 26
n 8:43 a.m. A traffic stop at Cary Street/Avenue G resulted in the driver warned for talking on their cellphone while driving, a hands-free ordinance violation.
n 9:30 a.m. A caller at North Bernard/West Second streets reported dogs in the area had been barking for the past 30 minutes. The community service officer was in the area at the time of the call but did not hear any barking.
n 11:30 a.m. Dogs were reported barking again in the area of North Bernard/West Second streets. A responding officer contacted the owner and the dogs were taken back inside the residence.
n 1:52 p.m. While on patrol, the community service officer found a black Lab with a long leash attached running at large at South Jones/East Adams streets. The owner was located and claimed the dog.
n 6:12 p.m. An auto burglary was reported on North Absaroka Street and the case was put un-
der investigation.
n 7:22 p.m. After a traffic stop at North Panther Boulevard/East Coulter Avenue, the driver was cited for minor in possession of tobacco and warned for left headlight out.
n 7:56 p.m. A caller reported a couple got out of a vehicle on North Cheyenne Street and tried to steal some yard decorations. The couple took off in their vehicle, but the caller was unable to get a plate number.
n 8:06 p.m. A resident on Ponderosa Court reported their Ring camera showed two individuals on their front porch attempting to take a picture of their Christmas tree through their front window. When the couple heard the Ring camera and noise inside the house, they took off. Officers were advised and responded, but the subjects were not located.
n 9:26 p.m. An officer responded to harassment reported in the Powell area and advised the subjects involved to not have any contact with each other.
DECEMBER 27
n 6:18 a.m. A caller on East Coulter Avenue reported a male passed out on the couch in a motel reading room. Responding officers advised the subject was staying at the motel but was too intoxicated to find the key to their room. The officers escorted the subject back to their room for the night.
n 12:23 p.m. An officer responded to a report that a male entered a liquor store on East First Street and attempted to purchase alcohol with an ID that appeared to be fraudulent. The male left, and the officer put the case under investigation.
n 12:32 p.m. The community service officer responded to a report of a dog tied in front of a residence on East Third Street without any shelter. The officer did not see a dog tied out in front of any homes in the area.
n 1:25 p.m. An officer responded to a domestic disturbance on North Gilbert Street where the situation was mediated.
n 5:23 p.m. An officer assisted with a civil standby on East Fourth Street.
n 8:42 p.m. A traffic stop at North Hamilton/East Fifth streets resulted in the driver warned for no proof of liability insurance and failing to come to a stop when merging from private
property.
n 9:50 p.m. After a traffic stop at East Sixth/North Bent streets, the driver was warned for no proof of liability insurance, expired registration, and passenger side headlight out.
DECEMBER 28
n 12:36 p.m. The community service officer responded to a report of a fawn-colored boxer running at large at Avenue G/ Cary Street. The officer returned the dog to its yard and cited the owner for dog running at large and failure to obtain dog license.
n 1:14 p.m. Dogs were reported barking in the neighborhood at North Bernard/West Second streets. The community service officer responded, but did not hear any dogs barking.
n 2:30 p.m. An officer responded to a report of a male wandering around on Wood Street, knocking on doors asking for help, and not making any sense. After investigation, a 32-year-old Powell resident was cited for being under the influence of a controlled substance, and taken back to their residence.
n 3:13 p.m. An officer responded to a possible threat on Avenue G and contacted the reporting party.
n 4:38 p.m. A wallet was reported lost on West Coulter Avenue. Nothing matching was reported as found.
DECEMBER 29
n 12:49 p.m. A caller on North Absaroka Street reported a black and white American pit bull had strayed outside of their house. The community service officer responded, but the dog owner had retrieved the dog before arrival.
n 7:08 p.m. After a traffic stop at South Bent Street/East Coulter Avenue, the driver was cited for speeding and failure to obey traffic control device.
n 7:49 p.m. A resident on Wood Street reported a man entered their home and then left, and the caller did not know who the man was. Later, another resident reported the same incident. Responding officers located the man, and after investigation, Adam Lynn, 32, of Powell, was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance. He was transported to the Park County Detention Center and a case was opened.
June 28, 2021
Former Pavillion clerk charged again with stealing from town Clair McFarland | Riverton Ranger
Trust But Verify
Originally charged with stealing more than $34,000 from the Town of Pavillion, the municipality’s former clerk was charged again last week, after more unexplained expenditures were discovered.
The newly discovered bank account charges date back to 2013 and appear to have funded a wedding in Kentucky.
July 29, 2021
Crook County treasurer arrested
Sarah Pridgeon | Sundance Times
Crook County Treasurer Mary Kuhl was arrested on Friday on criminal charges related to her conduct as an elected official.
The allegations include that she listed a customer’s license plate tabs as lost in the mail but then placed them on her own vehicle; that she adjusted the tax system to hide missing money; and that she issued a false certificate so that a personal friend could avoid paying registration fees.
Aug 15, 2022
Former city employee arrested on felony theft charge, allegedly stealing city property
Margaret O’Hara | The Sheridan Press
Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office officials took former city of Sheridan Utility Maintenance Division Superintendent Kenneth Hirschman, 53, into custody Aug. 11 for felony theft of city property.
Court documents allege Hirschman took 949 pounds of brass scrap metal belonging to the city without authorization; transported it to Billings in his personal vehicle on three separate occasions from July 2020 to March 2022; and sold it for $1,543, a sum he did not repay to the city. Hirschman allegedly used the proceeds to purchase steaks and brats for team-building lunches for his staff and refuel his truck for a fishing trip.
March 22, 2023
Hearing scheduled for former Rock Springs mayor
ROCK SPRINGS (WNE)— Former Rock Springs Mayor Timothy Kaumo faces five counts of official misconduct and one count of conflict of interest.
Each count could cost the former city leader $5,000 each.
The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and Division of Criminal Investigations (DCI), which began in August 2022.
Kaumo is being accused of taking advantage of his mayoral status to win an engineering deal for his own company, JFC Engineers, on the Bitter Creek construction project.
July 27,
2023
Green River city official arrested
Hannah Romero | Green River Star
The City of Green River’s former URA/Main Street Administrator, Jennifer “Jennie” Melvin, was arrested on two counts of alleged theft over $1,000 and is being tried for suspected embezzlement from the Green River Urban Renewal Agency and Flaming Gorge Days.
According to the probable cause affidavit from the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), “a total of $42,942.55 was stolen out of the FGD account by Melvin between June 8, 2022 and May 21, 2023” and “a total of $34,551.53 was stolen from the URA account by Melvin between January 14, 2021 and May 30, 2023.”
Charges from the FGD account included withdrawals from local ATMs – including the ATM at Wyoming Downs Off Track Betting in Rock Springs – and charges from supermarkets, gas stations, restaurants, Amazon, rental store companies, and hotels.
The ending balance for the FGD account in December 2021 was $48,391.51, while the ending balance for December 2022 was $4,487.41, according to the affidavit. By May 2023, the account had a balance of -$345.95.
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Photography: Photo book in future plans for group
Continued from Page 1
faced the reality of going out in bear country, lion country and wolf country.”
That’s not to say the women in the group aren’t more than capable of serious adventure in the Big Horn Basin’s harsh landscape. Lichtendahl, a NWC trained photographer and former instructor, is an accomplished outdoors enthusiast with a long list of challenging hikes under her belt and a former member of Park County Search and Rescue. She has recently turned her attention to photographing insects in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and was named the 2023 Sageland Collaborative volunteer of the year for The Rosy-finch Project, which champions a bird species rarely seen except during the coldest times of the year when they migrate out of their high elevation habitat.
Garceau started her career in the rough and tumble field of photojournalism in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan at a time few women were actively working in the field.
She earned her doctoral degree, in part, with her dissertation documenting how women were pushed to make images of their children and home life while men were encouraged to seek photography as a profession. The goal of both her dissertation and a benefit of being a member of the Shoot Like a Woman group is to write women photographers into the history of the art form.
“If you want to be a part of history, you have to sit at the table,” she said.
The two came up with a list of female photographers who might be interested in joining and went on their first monthly hike in January of 2014. Ten years later the group is still going strong and a show of current members’ top photographic images opened Thursday evening at Plaza Diane in Powell.
There are eight active members, four of whom were part of the inaugural outing a decade ago. All are represented in the exhibit, including Jennifer Litterer-Trevino, Michelle Milner, Kathy Morris, Heather Cole, Dawn Garrison, Randi Slaughter, Lichtendahl and Garceau. All chose images to highlight the beauty of the Basin and its charismatic creatures.
The exhibit will stay in the Plaza Diane Gallery until Feb. 10.
With an initial group of six women, they decided it was important to limit their footprint in delicate habitats, so they self-imposed a limit of 10 members for the monthly hikes.
ber Doreen Shellady.
The images are a small sampling of the hundreds of photographs each of the women has captured on excursions in what is essentially Powell’s “backyard.”
‘I’m probably more willing to do it [go on long hikes] with a group than I am on my own. It helps bolster your courage.’
Randi Slaughter Group member
“We were cognizant of the fact that we were imposing on that landscape,” Lichtendahl said.
They also knew from experience a large group would make it difficult to photograph wildlife. However, while the 10 member limit for the physical group remains intact, there are more than 120 members on the group’s online forum, with the goal of providing female nature photographers the opportunity to learn and grow together in their art.
Many of the members attended, despite the brutal weather.
“This was so great, the photos were exceptional. All very unique and interesting! A lot of personality in every one,” said Cody resident and online mem-
“They represent a love of subject and technique as well as a desire to share that love with a greater audience,” Lichtendahl said in announcing the show. Slaughter is inspired by the social aspect of the club and the opportunities to get feedback on her art. However, she has no issues with heading to the backcountry for extended solo hiking and camping trips. She often takes off for the mountains alone, spending sometimes two weeks at a time primitive camping to find landscapes and wildlife few see without getting off the beaten path. Even with her mountaineering credentials, she appreciates the social aspect of the group of likeminded women, as well as the feeling of security in numbers.
“I’m probably more willing to do it [go on long hikes] with a group than I am on my own. It helps bolster your courage,” said Slaughter. It would have been easy for the group to concentrate on Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding ecosystem. However, the group has explored many of the hidden gems of the region few have
witnessed in person.
“We’ve opened people’s eyes to the beauty that is right here. This entire area sometimes gets overshadowed by Yellowstone National Park, which is such a treasure and such a wonderful thing to have in our backyard. But because of that people don’t always realize all of these other amazing, incredible places we have,” Lichtendahl said, adding “I do think we have helped highlight those, both online and with our physi-
cal photographs that we should have showed in a variety of exhibits.”
There are future plans to look into publishing a book to highlight both the photos of the group over the past decade and to increase the reach of the club to other women and children.
The gallery is open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Or check out Shoot Like a Woman on Facebook.
Cheyenne Frontier Days won’t pursue horse racing at Frontier Park
CHEYENNE (WNE) —
Cheyenne Frontier Days officials announced Friday that they have decided not to pursue a deal with Accel Entertainment that would convert Frontier Park into a live horse racing venue every year in the late summer.
“The decision was made based on what we feel is best for Frontier Days, the city of Cheyenne, Laramie County and the fans and supporters of Frontier Days,” CFD President and CEO Tom Hirsig told the
Wyoming Tribune Eagle, “and amidst controversy on gaming and horse racing and all those things, that’s why it was decided.”
Neighbors of the park are pleased with the decision after they initially felt blindsided by CFD’s intent to bring horse racing to the park.
“We think it’s the right decision,” said Larry Wolfe, a resident of the surrounding neighborhood representing Citizens Against Horse Racing @ Frontier Park, an informal
organization of more than 50 residents. “We don’t think that horse racing belongs at CFD. We’re glad that CFD leadership has agreed with that.”
“Activism is not dead,” said Peg Ostlund, another representative of Citizens Against Horse Racing @ Frontier Park.
“Truly, my heart is warmed.”
Although Hirsig described the deal with Accel as a once-in-a-lifetime financial opportunity, he said it is more important to maintain the CFD brand. He estimates that CFD
will need more than $150 million over the next 20 years to maintain and upgrade Frontier Park facilities, and he isn’t sure that an opportunity like this will come again.
“At the end of the day, our brand is more important to us than any financial contribution,” Hirsig said. “This was just an opportunity that was presented that was really going to help us meet those needs through the private sector, instead of asking taxpayers to help fund this.”
Dawn Garrison and Kathy Morris stop during a hike to photograph a freshly snow-covered area near Ten Sleep while on the trail with Shoot Like a Woman, a local female conservation photography group. Photo courtesy Kathy Lichtendahl
‘River Rocks in Red’ was photographed in the Clark’s Fork River just outside the mouth of the canyon, off of Morrison Road by Randi Slaughter. The photograph and about two dozen other photographs captured by Shoot Like a Woman members is on display at Plaza Diane in Powell through Feb. 10.
Photo courtesy Randi Slaughter
The current Shoot Like a Woman group includes (from left, top to bottom) Michelle Milner, Heather Cole, Randi Slaughter, Dawn Garrison, Kathy Morris, Kathy Lichtendahl, Christine Garceau and Jennifer Litterer-Trevino. They are celebrating the 10th anniversary of the group. Photo courtesy Kathy Lichtendahl
PANTHER GIRLS ARE
BHB CHAMPS AT LAST
HOST CONFERENCE OPENERS THIS WEEKEND
BY SETH ROMSA Tribune sports reporter
n front of the home crowd all
Iweekend the Powell Panther girls’ basketball team put on a strong performance, dominating lower level competition. The girls stomped Riverside 65-24 and Wind River 73-37 before defeating 3A opponents Thermopolis and Worland 74-43 and 42-25 respectively to take home the Big Horn Basic Classic title.
Senior Addy Thorington led the Panthers’ title run, recording her first ever triple double against Thermopolis and leading the team in scoring, rebounds and blocks during the tournament.
POWELL 65, RIVERSIDE 24
Kicking off the tournament the Panthers (7-2) got off to a strong start, scoring in various ways against the visiting 1A Rebels (3-7 overall, 1-0 1A Northwest).
The Panthers strong press led to easy baskets along with strong outside shooting to build as much as an 18-0 lead five minutes in.
Riverside found the basket through free throws with 30 seconds left, and scored again before the end of the quarter to make it 19-4 heading into the second.
A slow start in the second quarter had the Panther offense struggling, not finding a basket for the first six minutes.
Thanks to the strong lead, the Panthers stayed ahead despite the scoring drought before Alexa Richardson hit a 3-pointer to end the run and make it 22-10.
Powell was led by the efforts of Coy Erickson who had 10 in the first half, and the Panthers had a strong lead heading into the break.
Richardson and Erickson came out firing in the third, quickly pushing the lead up to 38-12.
Powell built the lead to 30 in the third, before cruising in the fourth to make the final 65-24.
“Any time you can get everybody on the bench to see significant playing time then it’s a bonus,” coach Chelsea
PANTHER WRESTLING
Smaller wrestling squad excels in Missoula
TEAMS RETURN TO WYOMING THIS WEEK
BY SETH ROMSA Tribune sports reporter
Asmaller Powell Panther wrestling squad excelled during the Jug Beck Rocky Mountain Classic this past weekend, placing eight of 10 wrestlers in Missoula during the Panthers final trip to Montana. Leading the way for Powell was Talon Nuss, who ended the weekend 3-1 after battling back from a quarterfinal loss to finish third at 103 pounds.
“He had a great tournament,” coach Nick Fulton said. “He lost to the kid that won it. He was in that match, we talked to him afterwards and he wasn’t feeling his best … Sometimes you win when you aren’t your best but he strung together some wins on that backside and wrestled all the way back to third.”
Just behind Nuss was Jacob Eaton, who slotted in at 205 pounds — also bouncing back from an early loss to finish the weekend 3-2 and earn a fourth place finish.
Powell had a host of wrestlers finishing in fifth place, including Gabriel Whiting at 120 pounds (3-2) who lost in the semifinal, Tyler Wenzel at 126 pounds (4-2) and Jeremy Harms at 152 pounds (3-2) who lost in the semifinal.
“Tyler had a great tournament at 126,” Fulton said.
sixth, including Chevy Hill at 113 pounds (3-3), Wyatt Heffington at 138 pounds (2-3) and Doug Bettger at 285 pounds (2-3) who lost in the semifinal.
‘We
were a little shorthanded with some injuries. We hope to get some of those guys back this week — we just need to take care of our guys.’
“He dropped a match early and wrestled his way back and matched the same kid in the medal match. He was able to turn that kid and get a win there.”
Three additional Panthers placed
Nick Fulton Head coach
The final Panthers in attendance were Cody Seifert who went 1-2 at 145 pounds and Dusty Carter who went 0-2 at 182 pounds.
“We have a lot of people that we can put out there and they can be competitive,” Fulton said.
Powell finished in seventh with 109 points as the only Wyoming team in attendance.
Fulton said the team opted to leave
Panther boys survive on Stenerson buzzer beater
REMAIN UNDEAFEATED AFTER CLASSIC
BY SETH ROMSA Tribune sports reporter
ATrey Stenerson buzzer beater in the championship game
Saturday salvaged the Powell Panther boys’ basketball team’s undefeated start to the season. Powell dominated Wind River 72-27 and Shoshoni 82-19 on Friday before pushing past Thermopolis on Saturday 68-43 and defeating Lovell 60-58 on Stenerson’s shot in the championship to claim the Big Horn Basin Classic.
POWELL 75, WIND RIVER 27
Kicking off the tournament in Thermopolis the Panthers (9-0) looked to start strong, taking on 2A Wind River (2-9). Early in the game the Panthers dominated, with Stenerson getting Powell energized with the team’s first dunk of the season.
of the same, pushing the lead out to 51-8 heading into the half as Powell had one turnover in the game compared to 19 for the Cougars in the first half.
The game hit a running clock after the half, with the Panther bench coming in late in the third quarter, giving the starters a break for the rest of the contest.
‘We try to get off to a strong start in every game so I really liked the intensity the kids had in both games on Friday.’
Mike Heny Head coach
Powell was paced by Jhett Schwahn who had seven first quarter points as the Panthers took a 23-4 lead.
Behind 10 turnovers in the frame the Panthers eventually pushed out to a 27-4 lead at the end of the first with Powell committing no turnovers in the first quarter. In the second quarter it was more
Powell kept pushing and earned a 75-27 victory to open the tournament.
Schwahn and Brock Johnson tied for the team lead with 14 points, just ahead of Stenerson with 10 as the entire Panther team saw significant playing time in the game.
POWELL 82, SHOSHONI 19 In the second contest of the day the Panthers took on 2A Shoshoni (2-10), replacing Glenrock which did not make it due to weather. A slower start over the first three minutes was replaced by an offensive explosion late in the quarter via Gunnar Erickson, which helped Powell quickly push out to a 25-6 lead.
“We try to get off to a strong start in every game so I really liked the intensity the kids had in both games
PHS swimming strong in Worland
BY SETH ROMSA Tribune sports reporter
Two trips to Worland led to strong times out of the Powell Panther swim and dive team, finishing runner-up in a quad on Friday before a third place finish with a smaller squad on Saturday. In the first meet the Panthers were once again paced by Gabe Rose, who placed first in the 200 IM (2:18.08) along with a second place finish in the 100 fly (1:00.41). Adam Williams earned his final qualifying standard in the 200 free (2:05.79), placing second in that event alongside a second place finish in the 100 free (54.61).
“Coming out of Christmas break we are doing pretty well,”
coach Stephanie Warren said. “We have some fast kids swimming pretty well and our others are dropping times.”
Powell also got a pair of third place finishes from Hugh Carpenter in the 500 free (5:57.44) and the 100 breast (1:16.15), and Taggart Shumway led the way in diving with a third place finish (175.1).
“They overall did really well,” Warren said. “That was a better result than the previous meets we’ve seen them.”
Powell finished second with 290 points, well behind first place Riverton with 389 points and just ahead of Cody with 287. Worland placed fourth with 99.
Returning to Worland on Saturday the Panthers were slightly shorthanded, with several of their top competitors not in attendance.
Rose still led the way with a second place finish in the 100 fly (1:00.58), alongside Jon Hawley who placed second in diving (199.35).
Will Fuller finished third in the 100 back with a 1:02.78.
“We are seeing some really good things for where we are at this time of year,” Warren said. Several teams expected to attend canceled due to weather conditions. Riverton won once again with 377 points, Cody was second with 311, Powell was third with 216 points, Worland was fourth with 129 points and 4A Jackson was fifth with 118. Next up for the Panthers will be a triangular in Cody against the Broncs and Worland on Thursday.
Ivy Agee and the Panther bench played a key role in winning the Big Horn Basin Classic last weekend in Powell. Tribune photo by Seth Romsa
Brock Johnson and the Panthers survived an upset attempt at the buzzer as Powell remained undefeated at 9-0 on the season.
Photo courtesy Alex Kuhn, Northern Wyoming News
on Friday,” coach Mike Heny
“We wanted to come out and play
a high level and establish our style of game from the start. When you are in a tournament format, it’s always nice to be able to get every player in the game and give the main rotation as much
as possible while still allowing them to get minutes so they stay sharp for the next game.”
That strong push to end the first spilled over into the second, with Powell pushing behind Alex Jordan and Erickson to the tune of a 46-14 lead at the break as Jordan had 10 in the first half and Erickson had 17.
The second half continued a recent trend, as Powell pushed the lead to a running clock, with the starters resting late and the Panthers rolling to an 8219 win.
Erickson led with 25 points, shooting 9-10 from the field and 5-5 from 3-point range. Jordan finished with 14, Stenerson with 12 and Keona Wisniewski with 11. Marshall Lewis and Cade Queen tied with six assists, and Lewis and Erickson tied with four steals each.
POWELL 68, THERMOPOLIS 43
Switching to 3A opponents the Panthers got an early preview of 3A Northwest competition on Saturday, starting with host Thermopolis (8-3).
After another strong start in the first quarter Powell gained an advantage early that helped build a 12-8 lead.
Powell’s late run established a strong advantage at the end of the first, holding a 21-9 lead.
“I felt like we really executed well in the first quarter against Thermopolis which allowed us to build that early lead,” Heny said.
What went right in the first quarter did not go right to start the second, with the Bobcats making a run early.
Fortunately for Powell, that run was not damaging, with the Panther defense stepping up to maintain the lead despite it being cut in half.
Finishing the second quarter the Panthers pushed further out once again, ending with a 29-19 lead heading into the break.
“I felt like we really finished the second quarter strong and that carried us into the second half,” Heny said. “Our defense is always the key to keep us in games when we go through stretches when we aren’t clicking offensively.”
The lead continued to hover around 8-10 in the third quarter, with Powell finding a small push late to gain a 46-34 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
In the fourth the Panther offense took off behind Jordan who went 3-3 from 3-point range in the final quarter to a dominant 68-43 win.
“Once we got to the fourth quarter, our offense took off again and we were able to put them away,” Heny said. Jordan led with 16 points and nine rebounds, ahead of Lewis, Erickson and Johnson who each had 11. Johnson also added seven steals and Erickson had five.
POWELL 60, LOVELL 58 A fourth and final game greeted the Panthers on Saturday along with another familiar face in the form of the Lovell Bulldogs (10-3).
After three strong starts a fourth one did not come in the final game, as Lovell took advantage of a slower Powell team early.
“I give credit to Lovell because they came out and really played well and constantly were putting pressure on us on both ends of the floor,” Heny said.
The Bulldogs used their advantage to take a 16-13 lead after the first, and continued to carry momentum in the second.
Lovell continued to hold that lead, outscoring Powell again to take a 31-26
lead into halftime.
“Against Lovell we were really sluggish in the first half and it took us a while to get going,” Heny said. “The schedule worked against us a little bit with trying to get something to eat and still be at our best for the championship game. I credit the kids with how they battled through that first half because they were a step or two slower than we had been all weekend.”
In the second half Powell cut into the lead at times, but a deadlocked third quarter saw both teams score 16 to make it 47-42 heading into the fourth. Opening the fourth quarter the Panthers quickly cut into the lead, tying the contest on a Queen basket at 49 all.
After a Lovell basket regained the lead, Queen hit a 3-pointer to put Powell ahead 52-51. Both teams battled, with Lovell holding the largest lead late at four up 58-54. Erickson hit a 3-pointer and Johnson made a free throw late to tie the game, and Lovell had one last chance
200 medley relay — 3. Will Fuller, Garrett Lennon, Gabe Rose and Jon Hawley 1:59.57; 7. Taggart Shumway, Gabe Buchholtz, Trystan Preator and Liam Taylor 2:12.91 200 free — 4. Gabe Rose 2:07.55*, 7. Conner Mayes 2:13.37 200 IM 6. Trystan Preator 2:35.69 50 free 4. Will Fuller 24.63*, 8. Taggart Shumway 27.93, 12. Liam Taylor 30.06,
129, 5. Jackson 118
to take the lead.
Lovell missed the chance with less than 10 seconds left and Powell got an opportunity. With four seconds left, Erickson lobbed it inside and Stenerson found his shot off the glass to take the 60-58 victory.
“These kids have been through a lot together so they didn’t panic and eventually we were able to get enough stops in the fourth quarter and make a few big shots to get us the win,” Heny said.
Erickson led with 19 points, five assists and four rebounds, ahead of Johnson with 13 points and seven steals once again.
HOME CONFERENCE OPENERS
Powell will return home this weekend, opening up 3A Northwest quadrant play on Friday and Saturday.
“Our quadrant is really strong this year and beating any of those teams is a good feeling,” Heny said. “It will take our best basketball each and every night so we’ll have to take each game as it comes.”
in Thermopolis. Photo courtesy
News
Jacob Eaton (top)
PHS GB: Thermopolis comes
Kistler said. Erickson led with 15 points and six rebounds. Richardson and Thorington finished with 12 as the other Panthers in double figures.
Waycee Harvey led with five assists and six steals.
POWELL 73, WIND RIVER 37
In a second game on Friday the Panthers matched up with a fast-paced 2A team, taking on the Wind River Cougars (4-7).
Slow scoring early had Powell trailing 3-2 three minutes in, before a 5-0 run powered by Richardson gave the Panthers the lead.
Powell continued to push behind Richardson’s seven first quarter points, holding a 13-7 lead at the break.
“It was just a much faster pace than our first game,” Kistler said. “It just took them a little time to get going and remember how that ball pressure feels.”
The Panthers continued to push, now behind Thorington who helped Powell push it to double digits.
That lead continued to hold until just before the half, when the Cougars hit a buzzer-beater to make it 32-23 heading into the locker room.
Wind River continued to battle in the third, answering each time Powell pushed it to double digits.
Powell found a groove late in the third, holding a 49-35 lead going into the fourth.
That momentum carried, with the fitness of the Panthers holding strong — starting with a 19-2 run to help put the game out of reach midway through the final quarter.
ing 10 from Ivy Agee. Thorington led with 16 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks. Erickson led with seven assists.
POWELL 74, THERMOPOLIS 43
Starting the semifinals on Saturday, the Panthers matched up with a familiar opponent, taking on 3A Northwest Thermopolis (37).
‘Any time you can play a team that’s going to press you and get after you you’re going to get better.’
Chelsea Kistler Head coach
“Any time you can play a team that’s going to press you and get after you you’re going to get better,” Kistler said.
Powell got plenty of experience and points from its bench, getting 25 bench points includ-
INSURANCE
Powell jumped out quickly through a strong press, building a double-digit lead after a Harvey basket with three minutes left. That lead held at double-digits, as the Panthers finished the first quarter with a 19-9 lead. In the second, Powell turned defense into offense and quickly built a 20-point lead at 31-11. That lead grew further out to 43-15 at the break, behind
22 combined points from Thorington and Harvey.
The second half was not much different from the first, with Powell pushing the initiative as Thermopolis had no answer and only cut the lead down to 20 in the fourth quarter.
Thorington led the way with 18 points, 16 rebounds and 10 blocks — the first triple double of her career.
“They’re not easy to get,” Kistler said. “Especially in the block department.”
Harvey had 14 points and seven assists and Richardson was the other Panther in double-figures with 12 points.
POWELL 42, WORLAND 25
Heading into the championship for the third year in a row the Panthers matched up with another 3A Northwest opponent, the Worland Warriors (3-8).
Worland came out in a zone that led to a lower scoring output for the Panthers, who only led 14-7 midway through the second
quarter.
“It’s tough to hit outside shots when your legs are gone,” Kistler said. “We haven’t seen a tremendous amount of zone, it just took them some time to get going.”
Powell got the lead out to double-digits up 19-9 late in the second, which helped spark one final push.
That was capped off by Emery Hernandez, who got a steal and found Thorington on the fast break to beat the buzzer and help the Panthers finish strong with a 25-10 lead at the break.
Powell pushed the lead out to nearly 20 midway through the third, but took a 34-17 lead into the final quarter.
“We had to talk to the girls about making your own magic and making your own energy,” Kistler said. “You could kind of tell it was our fourth game.”
A spark by Agee led to a 38-17 lead to start the fourth, and the Panthers did not look back en route to a 42-25 win, finally winning the Big Horn Basin Classic
after losing in the championship the two years prior.
“This was one of their season goals and they checked it off,” Kistler said. “It was a real team effort this weekend.”
Thorington led with 14 points and eight rebounds, and Kidd added 10 points and eight rebounds.
CONFERENCE START
Powell will stay at home this weekend, kicking off 3A Northwest action against its two most recent opponents.
The Panthers take on the Bobcats on Friday night at 5 p.m. before taking on the Warriors at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday.
POWELL 65, RIVERSIDE 24 Total rebounds then offensive rebounds in () Points — Coy Erickson 15, Alexa Richardson 12, Addy Thorington 12, Saige Kidd 6,
WYOMING DOI: 2023 IN REVIEW
As the least populated state in the Union, it is not surprising that Wyoming is also the smallest insurance office in the country. The Wyoming Department of Insurance has twenty-seven employees that handle everything from licensing to consumer complaints. The agency works with legislators and state agencies on issues that may affect insurance consumers and our state.
The Wyoming Department of Insurance (DOI) regulates insurance companies, multiple employer welfare arrangements, risk retentions and purchasing groups, motor clubs, service contract providers, preneed funeral homes, agents, brokers adjusters, consultants, pharmacy benefit managers and third party administrator. We also approve policy filings, investigate consumer complaints, monitor financial conditions and
solvency of insurance companies and collect premium and surplus lines taxes. The DOI does not regulate insurance rates for most types of insurance.
The Commissioner of Insurance is the agency’s chief officer. The commissioner is appointed by the Governor and serves at the pleasure of the Governor. The commissioner, with the Governor’s approval, may appoint a deputy commissioner. Our current Insurance Commissioner is Jeffrey Rude and Tana Howard is the agency’s deputy commissioner.
The statutes that govern insurance in the state of Wyoming can be found in Title 26-Insurance Code. The statutes can be accessed by visiting https://www.wyoleg.gov/StateStatutes/ StatutesConstitution and clicking on the link for Wyoming Statutes Annotated. The rules for the agency can
be found at the Secretary of State’s website https://rules.wyo.gov/ Department of Insurance (044).
2023 Highlights
During the 2023 legislative session, the DOI monitored eighteen bills. Of those eighteen, ten were passed into law. You can view the bills and the changes that were made by visiting the Legislative Service Office website and select 2023 bills. The 2024 session is a budget session, but we expect to follow a few bills through the process.
The DOI also did extensive outreach during 2023. Public Service Announcements are published each month in statewide papers. Some of the topics in 2023 were choosing an agent, preparing for severe weather, and information regarding the Medicaid unwind. Additionally, the agency did presentations and articles for Cover Wyoming, AARP, and AWIA.
In 2023, the agency brought in over $50 million to the general fund from licensing fees and premium taxes. The agency also collected $55,736 in fines. These fines were collected from both agents and companies.
The agency was also busy with licensing applications and form reviews.
The licensing section issued 42,773 licenses and manually processed 5,026 applications. The Rate and Form filing section reviewed 1,520 Life & Health filings and 2, 225 Property & Casualty filings. The licensing section consists of three employees and the rate and form filing section has five employees.
Our legal section was busy revising
rules. They revised Chapters 10, 64, 54, 55, 28 and 68. Once again you can find these rules on the Secretary of State’s website. They also handled eighty public records requests and opened 65 administrative matters. The agency also has a complaint section. This section handles complaints regarding improper denial of claims; delays in claim handling; cancelation or termination of an insurance policy or misrepresentation of policy coverage or misappropriation of premiums paid to an agent or broker. The section cannot act as legal representation, recommend an insurance agency, agency or policy, determine property value, regulate rates, make an insurance company insure you, decide who is as fault for an accident, force a company to pay your claims or decide the amount of loss. During 2023 the section received 1,459 complaints and closed 1,453.
Also of significance this year is the DOI successfully passed NAIC accreditation. The NAIC Financial Regulation Standards and Accreditation Program (Accreditation Program) serves as the backbone of the U.S. national system of state-based regulation. The Accreditation Program defines baseline standards deemed essential for effective solvency regulation in each state. Accreditation assures states are regulating their domestic multistate insurers according to national standards agreed to by the NAIC. For the insurance industry, accreditation means insurers will not require additional independent exams from the other states in which the insurers do business.
The Powell Panther girls’ basketball team poses with the championship trophy after winning the Big Horn Basin Classic at home. Back row from left: Andrew Borcher, Troy Hildebrand, Waycee Harvey, Catelynn Floy, Saige Kidd, Addy Thorington, Kenzie Fields, Emery Hernandez and Chelsea Kistler. Front row from left: Coy Erickson, Lauryn Bennett, Alexa Richardson and Ivy Agee. Tribune photo by Seth Romsa
COMMUNITY COMMUNITY
BY BRADEN SCHILLER
Tribune staff writer
Select Powell High School choir and band students are in the midst of a busy two weeks. Six band and orchestra students and six choir students braved the cold Sunday-Tuesday to participate in All State Music in Casper. Beginning Jan. 24, five students will be traveling to Spokane, Washington, where they will perform with the best high school choir students in the Northwestern region.
Students Kik Hayano, Austin Sears, Amiya Love, Jenessa Polson, Danica Mason, Madison Johnson, Joe Bucher, Julian Frost, Levi Hawley, Tucker Phillips, Breckin Streeter and Jon Hawley will be representing Powell High School at All-State. Powell will be represented at All Northwest by Bucher, Levi and Jon Hawley, Streeter and Geo Dilworth.
STUDENTS LOOK FORWARD TO ALL-STATE
Fellow newcomer Mason is excited to perform with a large violin section as it’s something she’s never done before. Johnson, the band’s only other violin player, said last year there were about 45 violinists in total split in two sections.
Bucher, a returning All-State vocalist, said you learn a lot the first time you perform. This year he isn’t worried as much, he wants to “live the experience as it comes.”
“We don’t get to do this kind of stuff a lot, this is the only time we ever really do much. It’s the big thing for musicians,” Bucher said.
After All-State, five choir students will travel to the Evergreen State to perform with the best of the best.
Of the 12 students going to All-State, six students are going for their first time and Love is going for her first time in person. Due to COVID-19 restrictions it was held virtually her first year.
“So I’m really excited to actually get the experience to go see other people instead of on a computer screen,” Love said.
Polson echoed Love’s excitement to interact with new people at the event and experience the statewide collaboration of students.
“I think that’s not something that happens very often,” she said.
Jon is excited to hear top performers for both choir and band.
“It’ll be a high quality sound that we’re going to be hearing, and it’ll also be fun to hear the concert and the band perform … it’ll be nice to have a really polished performance,” he said.
SINGING IN THE EVERGREEN STATE
“I just love the opportunity to be able to sing with other people of high caliber when it comes to music, and the more opportunities that I can get the more that I’m wanting to go and be excited for that,” Levi said.
Jon is similarly excited to be part of the performances particularly the men’s choir where there will be full bass and tenor which he likes.
Dilworth will be going as the only female tenor, which she thinks is cool. She also said that all the students going are very “music driven.” Dilworth has been practicing by herself over Christmas break, and after returning to school on Jan. 8 she has been working on her music every day during an open period at school.
Outside of music, both Bucher and Streeter are excited to go for personal reasons. Bucher’s grandmother used to drive truck in the Washington area
and had told him about Dickies, a popular diner in the area. Bucher’s older sister also attended All-Northwest and had previously been to the diner. This year’s group plans on doing the same.
Streeter is excited to visit family in the area he has never met. His family here in Powell will also be coming to support him in his performances and take part in the family reunion.
“My parents are gonna go up there and most of my grandparents are all gonna be up there,” Streeter said. “I’m just happy to have that support from my family.”
Eight of the Powell High School students attending All-State Music on Sunday-Tuesday pose in the commons area of Powell High School. Back
row, from left: Jenessa Polson, Joe Bucher, Jon Hawley and Breckin Streeter. Front row: Kik Hayano, Amiya Love, Madison Johnson and Danica Mason. Tribune photos by Braden Schiller
Austin Sears plays the drums during a winter concert. He is attending
Music as
percussionist.
Powell High School choir students attending All-State Music and All Northwest pose in the Powell High School auditorium. From left, Jon Hawley, Levi Hawley, Breckin Streeter, Joe Bucher, Geo Dilworth and Julian Frost. Dilworth is only
attending All-State.
peregrine falcon with the Draper Museum Raptor Experience, enjoys a cold winter day. Photo courtesy Draper Museum Raptor Experience.
CENTER OF THE WEST HOLDS WINTER CELEBRATION
Family Fun Day on Friday, Jan. 19 from 3-7 p.m. Participants can drop in anytime during those hours to find wintry-themed activities throughout the Center’s museums. The first 150 participants to arrive will also enjoy a complimentary meal, from 5-6:30 p.m., to help melt away the cold. The Family Fun Day is put on by the Center’s Interpretive Education Department and coordinated by Interpretive Specialist Luke Deurmier, who says, “Shake off the winter chill and unleash your creativity with crafts, take goofy photos with your family, and explore how animals survive the winter.”
Additional activities include learning about the live birds of the Center’s Draper Museum Raptor Experience and seeing them up close, as well as listening to some captivating storytelling. Thanks to support from the R. Harold Burton Foundation, Winterfest is free for Buffalo Bill Center of the West members, and just $20 for non-member families. Those tickets for non-member families can be purchased online at tickets.centerofthewest.org, or at the door upon arrival. For more information on Family Fun Days, contact Deurmier at luked@centerofthewest.org or 307-578-4005. For details on all of the Center of the West’s upcoming events, visit centerofthewest.org/events.
Andrew Laszlo, Jr. to present at Northwest College in honor of National Holocaust Remembrance Day
Northwest College is hosting Andrew Laszlo, Jr. for a special presentation on Thursday, Feb. 1, in honor of National Holocaust Remembrance Day. This free event, sponsored by the NWC History Department and the Northwest College Foundation & Alumni, will take place in the Yellowstone Building Conference Center beginning at 6:30 p.m. Laszlo, Jr. is the son of renowned cinematographer Andrew Laszlo, Sr., a Holocaust survivor who is best known for his work on productions such as “Rambo: First Blood,” “Shogun” and “Star Trek V: The Final Frontier.” The younger Laszlo worked for Morgan Stanley
in Billings for 42 years before retiring in 2021 as an executive director in the Wealth Management Division. Since then, he has published his father’s memoir, “Footnote to History,” which documents Andrew Sr.’s time in German concentration camps during World War II and his post-war immigration to the United States. With Andrew Sr. keeping his past a secret for 50 years, Laszlo, Jr. only learned about those experiences in 1997 when he received a leatherbound book from his father, who had recorded everything that happened.
“My father told me his secret when I was in my 40s, that his family were all
Wonders of the Big Horn Basin
Wyoming’s Big Horn Basin is over 14,000 acres of arid desert, sagebrush steppes and mountain valleys. It is a vast area steeped in historical, geological and archaeological wonders. At 1 p.m. Saturday,
victims of the Holocaust and only he survived. Fifty years after arriving in New York Harbor, he presented me with his memoir sharing every detail of his story. He came to America with $2 in his pocket and became a world-famous cinematographer. His life was a triumph over persecution and evil. His will to survive gave me and my children the gift of life. I present to honor my father. Keeping the story alive may help prevent it from happening again.”
The retired Laszlo now speaks across the country as a commitment to keeping his father’s memory alive by sharing his story of hope and resilience.
A reception and book signing will follow the presentation on Feb. 1, and books will also be available for purchase on site.
Jan. 20 at the Meeteetse Library (located in the Meeteetse School, 2107 Idaho St.), area cowboy historian and podcast host (The Sweet Smell of Sagebrush) Clay Gibbons will share The Wonders of the Big Horn Basin. Among the wonders explored will be the discovery and excavation of wooly mammoths near Worland, archaeological excavations by Worland native and internationally acclaimed archaeologist George Frison, as well as a look at contributions made by Buffalo Bill Cody to settlement in the Big Horn Basin. A Worland native, Gibbons combines his passion for the Old West and his lifelong love of history into a captivating ability to bring its characters to life. He is a storyteller who enlightens and entertains his audience, while remaining true to his story. As with all library programs, it is free and open to the public. For more information contact the Meeteetse Library at 307868-2248.
Hayabusa, a
ANDREW LASZLO, JR.
CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS
POWELL AL-ANON is a fellowship of friends and families of alcoholics which meets on Tues. at noon and Wed. at 7:00 p.m., 146 S. Bent, Big Horn Enterprises north door. For more info. call 754-4231 or 271-2556 www.wyomingal-anon. org
(75TFFT)
WOULD YOU LIKE TO EARN your high school equivalency (formerly GED)? We can help! For more information, call the Northwest College Adult Education Program at 307-754-6280.
(15TFFT)
101 WAYS TO IMPROVE Customer Service! Free! JeansAndaDog.com (#330) (04-05PT) AMERICAN ALZHEIMER’S/DEMENTIA caregiver’s support group. First and third Tuesday of every month, 6:30 p.m. in the Powell library meeting room. (82TFFT)
DEMENTIA SUPPORT GROUP Demential specialists lend an experienced ear to offer you hope, humor, validation and coping strategies for living or working with someone with memory loss. Caregivers, family and friends are welcome! Third Tuesday of every month at 1 p.m. at the Park County Library, 1500 Heart Mountain St, Cody. For more information and to RSVP call 406-281-8455. (41TFFT) LOVE YOUR KIDS? Make Them Work! JeansAndaDog.com (#193) (04-05PT) SUPPORT GROUP Tues. at 6 p.m., 215 N. Ferris St., Powell. 254-2283. Reduce anxiety, depression, stress. Understand your strengths, eliminate faulty thinking, learn to flourish and enjoy life. Attendance free and confidential. (32TFFThursT)
POWELL VALLEY LOAVES and Fishes local food bank, Park County Annex, 109 West 14th St. Food distributed Monday thru Friday, 9-11:30 a.m. Please call for appointment, 307-754-8800. All non perishable, commercially processed food accepted. Please leave donations at local churches or receptacle barrels at local grocery stores. (09TFFT)
AMERICAN LEGION MEETING, 7 p.m., first Tuesday of every month at Post 26.
(07TFFT)
SAL - SONS OF AMERICAN Legion meeting, 7 p.m., last Tuesday of every month at Post 26. (07TFFT)
NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS in Powell is meeting at 146 S. Bent St., Powell, Tues., Thurs. & Sun. at 7 pm and Sat. at 10 a.m. Virtual meeting information can also be accessed at urmrna.org and virtual-na.org Call 307-213-9434 for info. (21TFFT)
CODY NA MEETINGSM,W,F at 7 p.m., at 725 19th St., in basement. Virtual meeting information can be accessed at urmrna.org and virtualna.org Call 307-2139434 for more info. (24TFFT)
NA MEETS IN LOVELL Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at 1141 Shoshone Ave., Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church. Call 307-2139434 for more info. (16TFFT) BYRON AA 35 S.Pryor St., Basement of Byron City Hall, Fridays, 7-8 p.m. (56TFFT)
POWELL ALCOHOLICS
ANONYMOUS meetings:
Do you think you are an alcoholic? Meetings are Mondays and Thursdays at noon, at the white house in the alley east of St. Barbara’s Catholic Church. Call 307-2724529 or 208-290-8460. (97TFFT)
DO YOU OR SOMEONE
YOU know need help overcoming a problem with alcohol? AA Twelve Steps for Christians meets Thursdays 7-8 PM, 215 N. Ferris. Call 254-2283 for more information. (46TFFT)
“OUR KIDS” A SUPPORT GROUP for parents/guardians of children with special needs. 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6:00 pm, call for location. Free child care provided. For information contact: Brandon Douglas 2542273, or Adrienne Harvey 754-2864. (85TFFT)
TOPS – TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY –Powell Chapter 0169 is meeting weekly on Thursdays at the Rebekahs & Oddfellows Lodge building, at 276 S. Douglas St., Powell. Weigh ins start at 5 p.m. with meetings following at 5:15. For more information contact 1-800-932-8677.
(37TFFT)
PREGNANT? NOW WHAT? Free and confidential pregnancy medical clinic specializing in pregnancy diagnosis, options counseling, education and resources. Serenity Pregnancy Resource Center (307) 271-7166 in Powell. (61TFFT) POST ABORTION
HEALING GROUPS Serenity PRC (307) 2135025 (Cody). (52TFFT)
HAVE YOU BEEN AFFECTED by suicide loss? A free support group, “Hope and Healing,” is held the first Tuesday of every month at YBHC, 2538 Bighorn Ave. in Cody from 6 to 7:30 pm. Call 587-2197. (17TFFT)
IMMUNIZATION CLIN -
ICS FOR children and adults are held at the Public Health Office at the Powell Annex. For appointment call 7548870.
(46TFFT)
AA MEETINGS, 146 S.
Bent St., use north door in parking lot, all closed meetings, Mon., Wed., Fri., & Sat., at 7 p.m., Sun. at noon. Women’s AA meeting Sunday at 9 a.m. Open meetings last Monday and last Friday of the month. Call 307-2502594 for further info. (103TFFT)
BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS of Wyoming is looking for adult mentors for youth between the ages of 5 and 17. If you would like to make a difference in a child’s life, call (307) 213-3263 for more information
(98TFFT)
PARENTS WITH children who have developmental disabilities, needing information, support, or help of any kind, please contact Betty Carmon, Parent Coordinator, 754-3430.
(42TFFT)
PREGNANT? WHAT am I going to do? How can I be sure I am pregnant? How should I tell my family? Can I continue school?... keep my job? Where can I live until my baby is born? Call Care Net of Billings Woman Clinic at 406-2567038. Give life a chance and we’ll help you every step of the way.
(83TFFT) ARE YOU PREGNANT and planning to breastfeed? If you want information or have concerns about breastfeeding, please call Park County Public Health at 527-8570 or 754-8570.
(37TFFT) CRISIS INTERVENTION SERVICES is your source of help with family violence and sexual assault. All services are free and confidential. Call toll free, 24 hours a day, 877-8649688.
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WELCOME TO POWELL! If you’re new to the area, you get a FREE Park County Welcome Basket packed full of local business information, coupons, freebies, and more! Send an email to wyomingwelcome@ shayleeh.com or call/text Keeawna at 307-2547022 for info on where to pick up your Park County Welcome Basket. You can also find a list of distributors on our Facebook page @ParkCountyWelcomeBaskets (24TFFThursT)
COMMUNITY SERVICES OFFICER - The City of Powell, WY is seeking a Community Services Officer. Requires a combination of education, a High School Diploma, GED or equivalent, 2 years of general work experience preferably in a related field. Responsible for enforcement of municipal code, non-critical public safety and clerical tasks. Full-time benefited position starting at $19.30/ hr. The City of Powell is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug Free Agency. Send Application to: City of Powell, c/o Human Resources, 270 North Clark, Powell, WY 82435. Ph: 307-7545106. For online application and complete job description: https:// www.powellpolice.com/ careers. Open Until Filled (04-06TuesCT)
Northwest College Tenure Track
Faculty
Positions
Join us in shaping the future of education and fostering student success. Seeking faculty members to deliver high-quality instruction prioritizing excellent in-person and online instruction, advising, assessment, service, recruitment, curriculum development, and collaboration with our campus community and other stakeholders. Positions include: Instructor/Assistant Professor of Biology, Instructor/Assistant Professor of Music, Instructor/Assistant Professor of Computing Science and STEM, and Instructor/ Assistant Professor of Graphic Design. For more information and to apply: https://nwc. edu/jobs EOE BHB(103-05CT)
RECYCLE
Mountain St., Cody, WY.
Northwest College Residence and Campus Life Director
Seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to fill the pivotal role of Residence and Campus Life Director! If you’re passionate about shaping a vibrant and studentcentered living and learning environment, go to https://nwc.edu/ jobs for more information and to apply. Master’s Degree in Higher Education, Student Services Leadership, or related field, and at least five years of experience which includes budget and supervisory experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job is required. EOE.
BHB(103-05CT)
Northwest College Vice President for Student Services
Help shape the future by crafting and executing strategies that elevate our mission, empower student success, and foster students’ personal and academic growth. This position provides the strategic direction, administrative leadership, and operational management of the Student Services area, including budget determination, project and program administration, recruitment and retention, workforce planning, and supervision. For information about the application process, go to https://nwc.edu/ jobs EOE
BHB(103-05T)
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According to Wyoming State Statute, Title 9, Chapter 8, Article 3 (W.S. § 9-8-301, et. seq.), all local governments shall develop a local land use plan within their jurisdiction. The 1998 Park County Land Use Plan, adopted by the Park County Board of Commissioners on September 15th, 1998, (“1998 LUP”) is the official land use policy document of the Commission, Board, and Planning and Zoning Department. Adoption of the 1998 LUP met the minimum substantive statutory requirements. Park County’s authority to regulate land use pertains to the unincorporated areas only. Local land use plans may guide local governments in adopting or amending local zoning regulations, however, such plans shall not be construed as a substitute for, or equivalent to, duly enacted local zoning regulations which have the force and effect of law.
Pursuant to W.S. § 18-5-201, et. seq., “The planning and zoning commission may prepare and amend a comprehensive [land use] plan…for promoting the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of the unincorporated areas of the county, and certify the plan to the board of county commissioners.”
Changes have occurred in land use patterns and types around Park County since the adoption of the 1998 LUP. The Commission and Board feel that it is time to evaluate and, where necessary, re-establish the County’s values and aspirations concerning the future of land use in unincorporated Park County. Many of the messages that were communicated in the 1998 LUP are mirrored in the updated LUP. In addition to updated vision statements and policy guidance, the updated LUP includes shared values, an updated land suitability analysis, and a Future Land Use Map for Park County. Careful attention was paid to the 12 planning areas in the County, to ensure that special land use considerations were captured for each. The Board appointed 16 members of the public to serve on a Land Use Plan Advisory Committee (LUPAC) to represent different geographies and interests in Park County. The LUPAC gathered and shared citizen perspectives and input on interim work products, assisted with community and stake-
holder engagement by helping to get the word out, and generally served as community ambassadors for the LUP process.
The initial draft of the updated LUP was not adopted by the Board on October 17, 2023, following a public hearing on October 3, 2023, due to concerns about lot size minimums and the proposed Agricultural and Big Game Use Overlays. The Board and Commission discussed changes to the updated LUP on October 25 and November 7, 2023. The latest “adoption draft” of the updated LUP is the subject of the January 23, 2024 public hearing, which is a required step in the amendment/adoption process. Forthcoming adoption of the updated LUP (thereafter to be referred to as the 2024 Park County Land Use Plan) by the Board, if so decided, will supersede and replace the 1998 LUP, thus continuing the County’s fulfillment of the minimum substantive statutory requirements.
The updated LUP establishes an overarching vision and goals for the use of land in unincorporated Park County over the next 15 to 20 years, as informed by an extensive public outreach process. It is intended to guide day-to-day decisions regarding zoning, subdivision, and other standards and regulations that influence the physical growth and development of Park County; the allocation of staff time and other County resources; plans for public facilities, infrastructure and utilities; and the County’s ongoing work with various agencies and partners that have a vested interest in the future of Park County’s natural environment, economy and communities. A copy of the draft updated LUP is available for public inspection at the following locations: Board of County Commissioners’ Office and Planning & Zoning Department; County libraries in Powell (217 E. 3rd St.), Cody (1500 Heart Mtn. St.) and Meeteetse (2107 Idaho St.); and on Park County’s website (www.parkcounty-wy.gov). Interested persons may submit data, views or arguments on this intended action orally at the public hearing and/or in writing to the Park County Planning & Zoning Department (mail: 1002 Sheridan Ave., Suite 109, Cody, WY
