Wyoming Women in Business

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019 | SUPPLEMENT TO THE POWELL TRIBUNE

WOMEN

IN

BUSINESS

As the state celebrates the “Year of Wyoming Women” in 2019, we’re recognizing some of the women who make a difference in Park County. October also marks National Women’s Small Business Month, a time to celebrate women’s accomplishments and the vital role they play in our economy.

CELEBRATING THE YEAR OF WYOMING WOMEN Since Wyoming’s earliest days, women have blazed trails here.

The Equality State is celebrating those accomplishments with the Year of Wyoming Women in 2019. One hundred and fifty years ago — on Dec. 10, 1869 — Wyoming became the first state to guarantee women their inherent right to vote and hold office. On Election Day in 1870 in Laramie, Louisa Swain became the first female voter to cast a ballot in a general election in the United States.

WYOMING ALSO CAN BE PROUD OF THESE FIRSTS: • The first woman governor in the United States: In 1925, Nellie Tayloe Ross was elected to complete her late husband’s term. She went on to serve as the first woman to lead the U.S. Mint, a position she held from 1933-53.

• The first woman justice of the peace: Esther

Hobart Morris was appointed on Feb. 17, 1870.

• The first all-woman jury was sworn in on March 7, 1870, in Laramie.

• The first town in America to be governed by women: From 1920-21, the town of Jackson had a female mayor, town council and town marshal.

Today, hard-working women continue to make a difference in their communities across Wyoming.

Gone are the days when women were limited to only a few career choices: Women now work in many different fields, with many serving in leadership positions and owning their own businesses.

“Hard-working, everyday women in Wyoming make me proud to be here alongside them,” said Christine Bekes, executive director of Powell Economic Partnership. “We took our homesteading and frontier strength and translated it into a leadership and business world.”

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

Julie Norberg never dreamed of becoming a restaurant cook

‘I’m so proud to continue my mom and dad’s legacy of hard work.’

Cooking at a busy restaurant like the Lamplighter Inn in Powell was never Julie Norberg’s idea of a dream job when she was growing up.

But family legacy — and the skill she developed at her mother’s hand — converged to move Julie seamlessly into the Lamplighter kitchen’s lead role 16 years ago, and now she is ensconced as chef of the dining operation in a family enterprise.

The Lamplighter has been a part of her life since dating her high school sweetheart, Rick Norberg, years ago.

“Dates with Rick were always held up, waiting for him to finish washing dishes or stocking the beer cooler,” she laughed.

They were married in 1987, and Rick was well on the way to assuming management and ownership of the Lamplighter.

“I knew I would need to fill a role somewhere,” Julie recalls. “But I always imagined I would inherit Shirley’s job. Although very important, it came with a lot of freedom.” (Shirley Norberg was Rick’s mother and hostess of the Lamplighter.)

“I worked most jobs at the Lamplighter — liquor store clerk, motel clerk, server, prep cook. On occasion, I made some beds and muddled through making a drink or two.”

At some point, she wondered what would happen if Ray Norberg, Rick’s father and the only cook, ever became sick or injured. The rest, as they say, is history.

“Although my mom — the very best cook

in the world — taught me how to cook, Ray taught me how to navigate a restaurant kitchen.

Ray and I shared cooking responsibilities while I still waited tables until 2003,” Julie related.

That’s when Ray retired from cooking, and Julie took over full-time.

“I don’t really recall what I wanted to be when I grew up,” Julie reflected.

She went to NWCC for a semester, but didn’t head in any clear direction. She thought cosmetology might be a cool job, “even though my mom did my hair every day ’til I was 16,” and she moved to Denver to go to cosmetology school.

This time she nearly finished school before deciding it was not what she wanted to do. Strike 2!

While in Denver, she got into restaurant management, then came home to manage the Powell Pizza Hut for two years before getting married.

Julie was born and raised in Pow-

ell, growing up on the family farm on Heart Mountain where her parents modeled hard work.

“I didn’t realize it until many years later, but they gave me what I value the most — my work ethic,” she said.

“I do enjoy cooking. I enjoy the challenge of a busy night.

My mom is a fabulous cook, and she is accustomed to cooking for a crowd, so a little of that was already engrained in me.”

"The best part of this job is cooking meals that our customers are pleased with. When you get favorable feedback, it’s incredibly satisfying,” she added.

Through the years at the Lamplighter, Julie was pleased and proud to work with all three of the Norberg children. At the same time, it was challenging and disappointing not to be able to attend their extracurricular activities, she said.

“My greatest joy, but sometimes

First & Clark Streets | 307-754-2226

my biggest challenge in all my years at the Lamplighter, was working with all three,” Julie smiled.

The Lamplighter has strived to make quality and consistency the hallmark of its restaurant.

With the introduction of the Food Network and others, the food industry has changed immensely over the past 20 years, Julie noted.

Food has become trendy, and it is increasingly difficult to keep up with a variety of issues like dietary limitations, allergies, intolerances, and calls for organic, vegetarian, cage free, wild, or farm-raised foods.

“We have stayed with what has worked for us and made us successful,” she said. “We have tried to remain true to the vision that Ray and Shirley originally had 43 years ago.”

Her experience prompts the observation that there are many paths to success.

“Don’t assume that the path everyone else is on is the best path for you,” she said. “I believe strongly that you can achieve anything if you’re willing to work hard and stick with it."

Living and working in Wyoming, where people value a less complicated life, is a source of pleasure to Julie.

“I enjoy, but sometimes take for granted, things like the beautiful sunrises and sunsets, the smell of freshly cut alfalfa and the meadowlark’s song. I’m so proud to continue my mom and dad’s legacy of hard work,” she said.

Julie expressed huge gratitude to the employee staff and loyal Lamplighter customers.

“We would not be where we are today without them. It has truly been a pleasure, and I’m so grateful for the many friendships we’ve developed,” she said. “I’m proud to be a part of a family-owned and operated business and am grateful for the opportunity that Ray and Shirley provided us.”

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2019

WOMENIN IN BUSINESS WOMEN BUSINESS

The Learning Garden

LYNN EASUM ADVOCATES FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION Don’t make the mistake of confusing preschool this job allowed me to do both,” she said. “Moving childcare with “babysitting.” up in the field to managing The Learning Garden Lynn Easum, owner of The Learning Garden in and then to owning it has been a positive aspect in Powell, is armed with the facts about the impor- my and my family’s lives.” tance of early childhood education.

She took classes off and on at Northwest College Up to 90 percent of brain development is com- over the years and earned an Associate Degree in plete by the age of 5. It Early Childhood Educatakes special people to tion. This has helped her in I enjoyed working with work with parents shaping teaching and understandlittle humans, she emphaing of children, as well as kids and families, and this sizes. communication with cojob allowed me to do both.

“Starting at newborn, workers and families.

Moving up in the field to the teaching begins,” Lynn “My favorite part of the said. “Children need to job is seeing the children managing The Learning have consistent schedules, learn and grow,” she said.

Garden and then to rules, love, guidance and “Coming into work each owning it has been age appropriate expectaday and having the chiltions each day. Life skills dren so excited to see you a positive aspect in my that each individual needs and welcome you with and my family’s lives. to learn start at birth. smiles, hugs and stories Working with young chil— how could you not love Lynn Easum dren takes a lot of planwork?” ning, patience and know“Some of these kids are ing the needs to be met each day by a variety of here from the time they are newborns,” she addchildren.” ed. “I can witness their triumphs and help them Lynn started working as an employee at The with their troubles. The light bulb that goes off in Learning Garden in 2004 because she was a mom a child’s mind when they finally figure something to three kids still in school and needed a job that out makes every day worth it.” allowed her to take an active role in their lives.

Lynn grew up in Byron, the second oldest of six “I enjoyed working with kids and families, and children. She was around other kids at home so the

620 Avenue A • Powell, WY • 307-754-2825

chaos of the childcare setting was an easy fit.

“I have three children who all graduated from Powell High School, and working in the childcare field allowed me to be involved with my own children,” she said. “I have had many different jobs in my life, and when I purchased The Learning Garden it was the perfect fit for myself and my family.”

Lynn is gratified to note there is more emphasis on the importance of early childhood and early intervention than ever before.

“Thinking about joining the early childhood field, I would suggest volunteering in areas with lots of supervision of young children and talking to others in the field,” she said.

The nurturing aspect of Wyoming is heartfelt.

“I have lived in Wyoming my whole life, and I wouldn’t change it,” she stated. “Wyoming offers so many opportunities that other places don’t. Building relationships that are lifelong, and knowing that so many people care for you and are looking out for you makes you feel so great and important.”

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

‘We are here to provide a service to our community and to provide it to the best of our abilities.’

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OF TAX © EXPERIENCE.

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Ann M. Ruward is the franchise owner of three tax preparation offices. Early in life, she realized she was determined and strong willed. As the fifth of six siblings, she wanted to do everything her siblings did, and she knew she could if she set her mind to it. These traits have helped shape her to be the woman that she is. She learned to be honest and truthful with her words and actions, important values in today’s society, especially for a business owner.

Ruward always liked math and naturally gravitated toward an accounting field for a career. She was a bookkeeper for Basin Tire for 11 years, worked part-time at H&R Block in the evenings and weekends and raised four children. First known as the Tire Lady, she’s now the Tax Lady.

Ruward’s predecessor, Jaqueline Gilman, groomed her to take over the H&R Block office. Gilman had faith in Ruward that she could do great things. Ruward completed the necessary education and, with hard work and dedication, has grown her company.

Ruward has since purchased the H&R Block offices of Powell, Cody and Greybull and has worked diligently to improve the business. Her team’s one goal for all of their clients in the Big Horn Basin is for them to be treated with the same high level of customer service, expertise, and respect. Ruward teaches this to her team and expects them to deliver.

Every day, Ruward endeavors to be a better person than she was the day before. She treats each person, client and employee with the same respect she would want. She credits her positive attitude, hard work and dedication for her success in her career.

Ruward considers her work a blessing. She enjoys working with people and doing the best she can for her clients and employees with knowledge and education.

With more than 30 years of tax experience and more than 12 as a team leader, she still completes more than 24 hours of continuing education every year to keep updated on tax laws and complete seminars and training to be the best person, friend, and leader. Ruward also cochairs a nonprofit group called Powell Troop Support. The nonprofit has mailed packages to the nation’s military servicemembers serving overseas every month since March 2003. Over the years, the nonprofit has mailed 12,563 packages to local military personnel serving abroad. Donations from the community supports this work. Families provide the mailing list and should notify the nonprofit if they have someone serving in a war zone overseas.

Ruward says her greatest accomplishments include her four children and 14 grandchildren, and she values family time, boating and camping.

132 N BENT ST, POWELL, WY 82435 , 307-754-4739 1825 STAMPEDE AVE, CODY, WY 82414, 307-587-5457 604 GREYBULL AVE, GREYBULL, WY 82426 | 307-765-9457

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T

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

WOMEN IN BUSINESS WOMEN IN BUSINESS

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Shanna Ramirez and Angelina Hardisty

Old-school restaurant homemade meals

&

Angelina Hardisty and Shanna Ramirez weren’t with their friends and family looking to go into business for themselves when Kaye while they enjoy a homemade Rhodes, the previous owner, hired them for waitressing meal,” she said.

The women have four children positions at Skyline Cafe. But after working there only each, and owning their own business a year, Rhodes handed the restaurant over to the duo.

“We had no idea what we were getting into,” Hardisty places a lot of demands on their time.

They work long hours, and the restaurant recalled.

At the time, she was 23 and Ramirez was 30. They is closed only three days a year: Fourth of July, Super Bowl Sunday, and had never run a business and Christmas. had little knowledge of all I like that our customers can “The hardest part about that goes into it. It’s been five come in here and talk with their this is trying to find a balance years since they’ve been at the friends and family while they enjoy a between being a mother and helm and they’ve managed to homemade meal. running a restaurant,” Ramirez keep the operation running — Shanna Ramirez explained. “You try to give your smoothly. Hardisty said it’s part kids the attention and structure of their Wyoming heritage, they need, but that also means rooted in agriculture, that If you have a chance to set an the other end of stick is going she and Ramirez rose to the example, be a role model. Do it. to lack the attention it needs. challenge.

— Angelina Hardesty The restaurant is pretty much a “The world needs more fifth child.”

Wyomingites. We’re just bred a “You’ve got to have sacrifice,” Hardisty chimes in. different way. To be the wife or daughter of a farmer, it’s “You’re not going to make every game night, every sun-up to sun-down,” Hardisty said.

Skyline Cafe distinguishes itself as a community band festival, every shot in the parade— they’re not restaurant. Not a lot has changed over the years, with always going to have that. At the same time, they’re going to have dinner with us. They’re always going to the exception of some items on the menu.

“We’re very old-school, hometown mom and pop. have breakfast before school. They’re always going to We’re not computerized. You can’t order online. see mom and dad working and pushing.”

They also have to contend with the challenges of a Everything is homemade. We write our own tickets. We cash our own tickets out. It’s very hands on,” Hardisty service industry, where service must always come with a smile. said.

“You’re not allowed to have a bad day. You can’t be Ramirez said it’s that sense of community they have tired,” Hardisty said, and that’s an attitude they expect at Skyline that she enjoys working there so much.

“I like that our customers can come in here and talk their staff to live up to as well.

“ “

” ”

The restauranteers said it’s not easy for women to have careers and family, but those that do it should give themselves more credit.

“Don’t be so hard on yourself when you’re trying to find that balance between your career, being a wife and being a mother,” Ramirez advised.

Hardisty said, while it’s not easy, young mothers shouldn’t pass on the opportunity to be leaders.

“If you have a chance to set an example, be a role model. Do it. It’s OK to be headstrong and independent,” she said.

Both the women wonder if they’ll ever burn out trying to meet the demands of their business and their families, but they say they’ll know when it’s time to give it up at the restaurant.

“I love my job. I love the people. When I wake up and I don’t love it, then I know I’m done with it,” Hardisty said.

141 E. Coulter • 754-8052

Reservations not required, but appreciated

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WOMENIN IN BUSINESS WOMEN BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2019 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10,10,2019

FIVE WOMEN, TWO CLINICS AND A SINGLE FOCUS: CARING FOR YOUR PET

From left to right: Dr. Caitlin Blackburn, Dr. Erin Pedersen, Dr. Mandy LaFevers and Dr. Justina Pahl. Not pictured: Dr. Kristin Myers.

SERVING PARK COUNTY’S PETS “While most people enter the profession to help animals, we quickly realized that our biggest contribution is helping the families connected to those animals.”

- Dr. Erin Pedersen

In Powell! www.heartmountainanimalhealth.com

307-754-9393

In Cody!

www.avcccody.com | 307-527-6828

The all-female team of veterinarians at Heart Mountain Animal Health in Powell and Advanced Veterinary Care Center in Cody share the obvious common denominator — a love for animals.

But the steps to obtain a veterinary degree reveal more commonalities between Dr. Justina Pahl, Dr. Erin Pedersen, Dr. Caitlin Blackburn, Dr. Kristin Myers and Dr. Mandy LaFevers. Four years of undergraduate work and four years of veterinary school show determination, persistence, a talent for science and math, and a strong work ethic.

A less obvious commonality: Both clinics have always been owned in part by women.

In contrast, the differences of this team are key to serving the needs of Park County’s pets.

All five women are accomplished surgeons and adept with internal medicine, but their individual professional and personal strengths complement and fortify each other.

The gender dynamic has changed rapidly within the profession: 60 years ago, there were less than 300 female veterinarians in the country. Now, over 80 percent of graduates are female.

The previous model of veterinary medicine was a sole (male) practitioner working long hours, his family reheating meals and helping at the clinic

to preserve “family time.”

With female veterinarians now in the majority, there is a push toward balancing work and personal time for all veterinarians.

As a team of five, the veterinarians of HMAH and AVCC can provide emergency coverage 24/7 for their clients while allowing enough time off to be present for their families and re-charge to provide the best service to their clients and pets.

“While most people enter the profession to help animals, we quickly realized that our biggest contribution is helping the families connected to those animals,” Pedersen said.

All veterinarians face similar challenges: They need to relate to the client and adequately explain medical problems and treatments.

They also require intuition and logic to evaluate an animal’s behavior and symptoms (and increasingly sophisticated diagnostic tests) to determine what the problem is — animals don’t talk and cooperation is variable!

Finally, they must operate within an owner’s budget to provide the best care and plan possible for that pet and family’s specific situation.

All five veterinarians understand the special role your pet plays in your family.

“We treat your pet as we would our own,” Pedersen said.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

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Catering with Joy, inspired as a 10-year-old youngster.

She had her first taste of catering at age 10.

By the time she was 12, she had a paid gig in the food service industry. And she was hooked.

Joy Bessler, who superintends about 70 events a year through her Catering with Joy, came by her career naturally.

“Growing up, I was always in the kitchen with my mom, watching her and asking questions,” she said. “She was my inspiration and taught me at a young age how to make cookies.”

Her dad loved cookies with his lunch, and Joy was pleased to respond, baking cookies every Saturday for many years, while her mom baked bread, cinnamon rolls and apple pies and made Christmas candy.

“She did eventually teach me how to make all of those treats, too,” Joy recalls.

When she was around 10, she was hired to make dozens of cookies for a convention in Cheyenne.

Her big “breakthrough” came when she was 12. Bob Gallagher, owner of Hansel & Gretel’s Restaurant in Powell, asked her to be a hostess Prom Night, as many on his staff were going to the Prom, and he was short-handed.

“That was my first taste of the restaurant setting, and I loved it,” Joy said. “I worked for Bob and Marlene for many years, both in the kitchen and on the floor.”

Thus, the basis was set for a career in the food and entertainment industry. Joy moved to Southern California and worked in several country clubs and golf clubs, holding positions as food and beverage manager and banquet coordinator.

“I so enjoyed working with an array of clients, planning and organizing their events,” she said. “On my days off, you could find me in the kitchens with various chefs, learning everything I could about the trade. I was fortunate to have had hands-on training from some of the most sought after chefs in Southern California.”

After 10 years it was time to return home to Powell.

“The people of Wyoming are some of the hardest-working, most generous and kind

JOY BE SSLER

people I have ever known,” she said. “Wyoming is truly one large town with one long road and many wonderful friendships made around each bend.”

Her husband, Gregg, commutes to the oil fields in North Dakota, Texas and Wyoming.

His work away from home played a part in spawning her business.

“I started making meals for Gregg to take to work, and his co-workers began asking if I would make meals for them also. That’s really where it all began.”

When she and Gregg built their new home west of Powell in 2007-2008, she had the perfect setting for expanding her catering business.

“I was approached by a few groups to have their meetings or gatherings at our home. I thought: why not?”

It proved to be a dream come true, planning parties and cooking delicious meals — a niche that fit Powell with an added beautiful view of majestic Heart Mountain.

Catering with Joy has taken off.

She can accommodate from eight to 250plus guests. The main Great Room seats 50 to 60 people comfortably for a served dinner, while a social gathering will accommodate many more, utilizing the upstairs as well as two patios. It really depends on the type of party and meeting the guests’ individual needs.

“My favorite part of a party is when it all comes together,” Joy said. “It doesn’t matter how may prep hours I put in. The end result is always the most rewarding — the happiness and laughter being shared, the reconnecting of relatives and friends who haven’t seen each other in years.”

Joy’s daughter, Cassidy, is her right hand gal, along with Cassidy’s husband, Braden and other staff. Gregg helps when he’s home.

“My advice to other women wanting to start a business would be to research your product, know your market and find a niche,” she said.

“But most importantly, if it feels right, take the leap of faith. You never know where it will take you.”

|

307-254-2836

|

Growing up, I was always in the kitchen with my mom, watching her and asking questions.

1069 ROAD 12

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JOYBB63 @ GMAIL.COM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

Patricia Moulton named to

New York Life’s Executive Council Powell, Wyoming – Patricia Moulton, with Mains Financial, has been named a member of the 2019 Executive Council of New York Life Insurance Company for the third year in a row, which recognizes the top 20 percent of New York Life’s elite sales force of more than [12,000] licensed agents in sales achievement.

Patricia has been a New York Life agent since 2015, and is associated with New York Life’s Montana General Office in Billings.

Patricia’s mission is educating the members of her community about the resources available to them, as a New York Life Financial Services Professional. Her passion is helping individuals, families and business owners achieve financial success through holistic planning through the use of investments, life insurance, annuities and long term care. She serves on two community boards in the Powell community hoping to make a difference for the younger generations and has a Master’s Degree from the University of Wyoming in Adult Education. She also has her LUTCF® (Life Underwriter, Training, Council Fellow) and her RICP® designation (Retirement Income Certified Planner professional designations from the American College. Patricia is also a registered representative of NYLIFE Securities LLC (Member FINRA/SIPC), a licensed insurance agency and can offer securities/investment products.

In 2016, Patricia was awarded the Career Life Success award and later in the year also received the Career Life Producer Award as a New York Life agent. In 2016 she attended the New York Life Career Summit, and was named member of the 2017, 2018 and 2019 New York Life Executive Council. In 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 she received the Man Power Tower award and in 2018 she was awarded the Life Individual All Star Award. In 2019,

she also earned the honor of being named to New York Life’s Scroll of Honor.

Patricia has 11 years experience in the financial services industy. Her practice specializes in retirement, estate and income distribution planning. She may be reached at (307) 254-1032. Find her on Facebook and Linked-in. She looks forward to working and serving the members in the Powell community and surrounding communities.

New York Life Insurance Company, a Fortune 100 company founded in 1845, is the largest mutual life insurance company in the United States* and one of the largest life insurers in the world. Headquartered in New York City, New York Life’s family of companies offers life insurance, retirement income, investments and long-term care insurance. New York Life has the highest financial strength ratings currently awarded to any U.S. life insurer from all four of the major credit rating agencies**.

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* Registered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE * R egistered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC (member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Securities LLC (member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency and wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Insurance Agency and wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Insurance and an agent licensed to sell insurance through New York Life and an agent licensed to sell insurance through New York Life Insurance Company and may be licensed to sell insurance through Insurance Company and may be licensed to sell insurance through various other independent unaffiliated companies. ** various other independent unaffiliated companies.

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SMRU1713827 (Exp.07/30/2020) ©2018 New York Life Insurance ©2018 New York Life Insurance Company, SMRU1713827 (Exp.07/30/2020) ©2018 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010 Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010

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**Based on revenue as reported by “Fortune 500 ranked within Industries, Insurance: Life, Health (Mutual),” Fortune magazine, 6/1/19. For methodology, please see http://fortune.com/fortune500/ **Individual independent rating agency commentary as of 07/30/2018: A.M. Best (A++), Fitch (AAA), Moody’s Investors Service (Aaa), Standard Poor’s (AA+) ©2018 New&York Life Insurance Compa ***New York Life Investments is a service mark used by New York Life Investment Management Holdings LLC and its subsidiary, New York Life Investment Management LLC. SMRU 1827604 Agent of New York Life Insurance Company. Mains Financial is not owned or operated by New York Life Insurance Company or its affiliates.

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51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 1001

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019 10, THURSDAY, OCTOBER

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Finding joy in the balance

Accountant brings a love of numbers and people to her work

I

t took just one high Balancing her most important job — as a wife and mothschool class for Reanne er — with her work as an accountant can be challenging at Wolff to know she times, Wolff said. wanted to be an accountant.

“You want to make sure you are providing your clients with “I loved everything about the best service possible while also providing quality time the profession,” Wolff said. with your family,” she said.

She took as many acIn just a single day, Wolff may touch base with clients by counting classes as she could phone and email, assist her staff with questions, hit deadlines, and got the opportunity to conduct research and decipher new tax laws. She uses daily intern at a local accounting prayer, prioritizing, perspective — and sometimes breaks out firm. When Powell High her “supermom cape” — to help stay on top of it all.

School leaders eventually “It can be a very demanddeveloped an advanced acing job,” Wolff said. “Howcounting class, Wolff was We are so blessed ever, I believe with the the only student. to be able to serve this appropriate mindset and Years have passed since positive thinking, it can all great community. It then; Wolff is now an expebe done and done well.” rienced CPA and a partner brings us great joy to be Wolff adds that she has at SBW & Associates, but able to support and give a great group of smart, caher passion for accounting back to the community pable employees and two remains. wonderful business partin return.

“I love working with numners at the firm.

Reanne Wolff bers and making things bal“We really make a great ance,” she said. “I love probteam,” she said. lem solving and the many Both family and teamdaily challenges that the work are built into SBW as two of the firm’s core values, along profession brings.” with confidentiality, integrity, professionalism, dedication, Most of all, Wolff loves knowledge, learning, competitive spirit, quality, innovation, working with people. relationships and trust.

“I have the most amazing SBW’s mission is to serve clients’ accounting needs through clients and it brings me great professional experience, innovative technology and quality joy to help them solve their service. On the technological end of things, SBW has created problems and see them suc- a “paperless” office — a change from Wolff ’s early days in the ceed both personally and in profession, when accountants had “so much paper.” their businesses,” she said.

“It has been fun to watch how quickly things are changing Oftentimes, the relationships formed through her work with technology,” she said. “I am proud to say our firm has at SBW & Associates go far beyond a client’s taxes. always made the investments needed to keep up with it!“ “We are so blessed to be able to serve this great comWolff also calls herself extremely proud to be living and munity,” Wolff said. “It brings us great joy to be able to working in Wyoming. support and give back to the community in return.”

NWC and UW offered the best education for Wolff ’s caWolff is particularly grateful to be living and working reer as a certified public accountant, while the state offers “so in Powell, where she was born and raised. many amazing things to do and see,” she said. That includes After high school, Wolff earned her associate’s degree outdoor activities like camping, which is one of her favorite at Northwest College and then left the area to attend the hobbies. (Another, crazier one is competing in grueling triUniversity of Wyoming. She earned her bachelor’s degree athlons.) in accounting — and met her husband, Chris — while in As the daughter of Powell area farmers and now a mother Laramie. However, after a “wonderful upbringing” in Pow- herself, Wolff also speaks from deep personal experience CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS ell, she dreamed of coming back and raising a family of her when she says the state is “an amazing place to raise a family.” own in the Powell Valley, where her parents still farm.

“We have great schools with even greater teachers. We have In 2000, the Wolffs made her dream a reality and returned a low crime rate. And we have unbelievably nice people,” she to Powell; they have two children: Gracie, 14, and Kaden, 11. said. “Truly I am blessed to call Wyoming home.”

“

”

WE CAN

HELP.

Come see us before Jan. 31 for assistance with all your W2's, 1099's & year-end bookkeeping.

428 Alan Road

if applicable) Powell, WY

pany, 010

2019

307-754-1010 www.sbwcpas.net

& ASSOCIATES, P.C.

SBW & ASSOCIATES, P.C. C E RT I F I E D P U B L I C AC C O U N TA N T S

Cody

◆

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PAGE 10

Gotham is used for all Edward Jones ad pieces. It is primarily used for body cop go below 9 pt. on 13 pt. Preffered discla WOMEN IN BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

Brooke Fink knows the value of a ITC Franklin Gothic ITC Franklin Gothic for tables, c comfortable pairisofused shoes. used for our HNW category.

That’s because she has been introducing herself to the residents in Powell.

Fink is a financial advisor for the financial services firm Edward Jones, and her neighborhood visits demonstrate the Edward Jones way of doing business - face to face.

“I am excited to be opening an Edward Jones office in Powell, because I see a need for the type of service we provide,” Fink said. “This firm concerns itself with the needs of individual investors and small - business owners, and I’m happy to be bringing that kind of personalized service to this community.”

“At Edward Jones we don’t expect anyone to invest with us until they know our investment philosophy,” Fink said. “I believe I have a responsibility to understand the unique financial needs of each and every client, and that’s why I’m paying them personal visits.”

“I have spent the past two years getting to know the people of this community, and I sense that Edward Jones will fill a need here for one-on-one investment advice and guidance,” Fink said. “I am eager to help the residents of Powell work toward meeting their financial goals.”

Brooke Fink

Financial Advisor

ype l d . The t is Brooke can currently be reached at 1121 13th St., Cody, WY, 307-587-1000 ne on She is expected to open her Powell Branch Office in November.

116.

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

PAGE 11

Fisher found her calling as a teenager, has since helped thousands of patients.

For Jael Fisher, the best part of working at 1st Choice Imaging is connecting with patients.

She’s there when new parents see their tiny baby for the first time, introducing them via an ultrasound. And she’s also there for the tough moments, when patients find out what’s ailing them.

Whether it’s an exciting day or a difficult one, Fisher is glad to be able to help.

“I love meeting babies that I have done ultrasounds on or having people come up to me and say thanks for helping with their broken wrist,” she said.

Fisher’s interest in medical imaging traces back to her days at Powell High School.

She always wanted ... after spending to pursue a career in the medical field, but with my senior year so many different areas, wasn’t sure which doing a school to she part would be a good fit. work placement Then, as a PHS junior, she took a career placein a radiology ment test, and radiologic popped up. department, I technologist “I was not entirely what that entailed, knew this is what sure but after spending my seI wanted to do. nior year doing a school to work placement in a radiology department, I knew this was what I wanted to do,” Fisher recalled.

For young women starting out in their careers, Fisher said it’s important to choose to do something with your life/ career that you love to do.

“And will continue to love to do for years to come,” she added. “Money is not always the top priority in life, but happiness is!”

She attended Western Wyoming Community College to receive her prerequisites for X-ray school, graduating in 2001. Fisher went on to graduate from Weber State University’s School of Radiologic Sciences in 2003. In the years since, she has done additional training in mammography, CT and ultrasound.

Throughout her career, Fisher has seen amazing advances in technology.

“When I was in X-ray school, everything was on film

120 North Bent St. |

and had to be chemically processed,” she said.

“Now everything is digital and the image quality is amazing!”

Fisher said it’s cool to compare 3D ultrasound images with newborn pictures and see the similarities.

She’s also amazed at how easy and quick it is to send images to specialists.

“With a touch of a button you can have a specialist looking at images thousands of miles away and coming up with a plan for that patient,” Fisher said.

1st Choice Imaging opened in Powell in 2016. Fisher often gets Jael Fisher, RDMS, RT (R) asked why she decided to go out on her own.

“Basically, I got very “I feel like a majority of the people in our state are very burned-out being a full time mom, working full time, and be selfless and always willing to lend a hand or help a neighbor,” on call all hours of the night,” she said.

She needed to make a change, because her unhappiness Fisher said.

She sees it every day in our community as moms and was affecting her family.

“Being on my own allows a lot more flexibility to my families help each other get kids to and from different activschedule so I can attend my kids’ activities and not working ities and practices.

“If someone gets hurt or is going through a tough time, 24/7 has really improved my quality of life!” Fisher said.

She also is thankful to live in her hometown. Fisher and there is usually a line of people asking how they can help,” her husband have two kids and “love the fact that they get to Fisher said. “I think in Wyoming, we truly treat our family, neighbors, and state as a top priority and will do whatever we grow up in Powell close to all of our family.”

They stay busy following all the activities the kids are in- can to protect all of the volved in.

OFFICE HOURS: “If we are not watching sports, we are in the mountains or above!”

Monday-Friday • 8 am-5 pm Exceptions will be made at the lake,” she said. to accommodate your schedule The family loves Rzr rides, camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking, dirt bike riding, boating, snowboarding and snowmobiling. “... Pretty much anything outdoors any time of the year!”

Fisher said.

She is grateful and proud to live in Wyoming.

(307) 764-2322 • www.fciwyoming.com

PAGE 12

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

A comprehensive physician billing service providing billing and accounts receivable management solutions for solo, group and affiliated practices.

M

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

Dedicated.

Professional.

Experienced.

edical billing and coding can seem complex and cumbersome, but Rocky Mountain Medical Services founders Charissa Johnston and Marcie Hobbs draw from years of expertise to ensure the process goes smoothly for providers and their patients.

Johnston and Hobbs currently bill for many different specialities and provider practices — including some clients who’ve been with them since Rocky Mountain Medical Services first opened in 2010.

While a career in the medical billing field was not a direction either Johnston or “Rocky Mountain Hobbs pursued in college, they discovered a similar interest in medical billing and coding while working together at a different organization. That led them to open their Medical Services Powell-based billing company nine years ago. works very closely Over the years, they have seen the medical billing field change due to the evoluwith providers and tion of Marketplace Insurance Plans, which have brought about higher deductibles and co-insurance amounts. their patients to Those higher expenses can make it difficult for patients to pay. resolve medical “After all, who wants to pay a medical bill?” Johnston said. “Rocky Mountain Medical Services works very closely with providers and claims and their patients to resolve medical claims and account balances.” account balances.”

Hobbs added that, amid the changes in the industry, “Insurance companies have changed the way they process claims and how they handle appeals.”

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) rules are constantly changing and the effects are felt by everyone —from patient to provider to hospital, she said.

Hobbs and Johnston stay up-to-date on the latest rules to help navigate the billing process.

“One of the biggest challenges is working with insurance companies on claim denials,” Hobbs said. Claim denials typically have to be appealed, she said, “which is a time-consuming process but can also be rewarding when the insurance company approves and pays.”

Those successes result in more money staying with Rocky Mountain Medical Services’ clients.

For young women starting out in their careers, Johnston and Hobbs encourage them to never sell themselves short.

“Be proud of your accomplishments, be respectful, be kind, work hard, be punctual and do not have any regrets for trying something new!” Hobbs said.

Both women are proud to live in Wyoming and to call Powell home.

“Wyoming has wonderful communities, great small towns in which to raise a family, excellent schools, recreational opportunities, wildlife and wide open skies,” Johnston said.

When they are not busy with the day-to-day operations of Rocky Mountain Medical Services, Hobbs enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons. Fishing, camping, RZR riding and hiking are just a few of the many outdoor activities they are involved in.

Johnston enjoys camping, fishing, paddle boarding, reading a good book and spending time with her husband and son.

Our staff is proficient in billing and accounts receivable, experience and expertise in coding conventions and applications, third party processing, electronic claims submissions, and sound, supportive patient relations.

Our online capabilities support effective business relationships and we maintain current awareness of technological advances to continually expand and extend our level of services.

422 South Mountain View Powell, Wyoming

307-754-3319

Rocky Mountain Medical Services owners Marcie Hobbs and Charissa Johnston.

w w w. r o c k y m m s . c o m

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019 10, 2019 THURSDAY, OCTOBER

WOMENIN IN BUSINESS WOMEN BUSINESS

PAGE13 13 PAGE

Florist

A flourishing

RAYVEN’S FLOWERS & GIFTS CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY

As Rayven’s Flowers and Gifts marks its one-year anniversary in October, owner Rayven Faxon says Powell’s close-knit community has been the leading factor in the success of the small business.

“With anything that happens in the community, everybody comes together and really shows support,” Faxon said. “And with small businesses and a lot of small businesses popping up, it’s really nice to see people going and supporting them.”

Faxon’s family has also been supportive of her.

“My family, we’re really close and a lot of my business is from the help of my family,” Faxon said. “They’re always here during the holidays, they’ve always been supportive and they never really questioned what I wanted to do and never doubted that I couldn’t do it. And it’s a lot of the reason why I’ve been so successful because they got me to believe in myself.”

Starting a business in a small community is one thing, but being successful on top of that is another.

“Don’t doubt yourself because a lot of

Rayven’s

people can doubt you but they don’t know floral shop’s first year. you; you’re the only one that knows your“I was expecting to take time to build self,” Faxon said. “For me, having my parents ‘clientele,’ but we’ve done nine weddings being so supportive was really good but already,” Faxon said, adding they’ve also for some people out there, they don’t have done flowers for more funerals than she that. So it’s really good to believe in yourself expected. “... Just from the beginning until and don’t doubt [anything].” now, I see a lot of good A 2017 graduate of Powell things coming out of it.”

High School, Faxon started Despite the joys and sucWith anything out working at Four Seasons cesses in Faxon’s business, Floral, a former floral shop, some minor setbacks and that happens in before taking the next step challenges have surfaced. the community, in owning her own business.

“Adjusting to space — At Four Seasons, she we need a bigger space everybody started working with Kerri already because our backcomes together Kolb. room, where our walk-in “I pretty much learned cooler is, it’s small,” Faxon and really shows hands-on, which is one of said. support. the best ways to learn it,” Eventually, she hopes to Faxon said. “I also got to see move to somewhere bigger.

— Rayven Faxon the business parts of [Four “Adjusting to being a Seasons].” business owner [has proven Faxon fell in love with floto be tough] where as if ral design, eventually opening up Rayven’s you work somewhere, you’re able to go Flowers and Gifts on Oct. 16, 2018. home and forget about it,” Faxon said. “But “When we first started, we weren’t ex- if you’re a business owner, you go home pecting to be very busy, but with the high and think about the financial [aspects] like school [events], we got slammed,” Faxon bills.” said. “If anything, we were under-prepared Rayven’s Flowers and Gifts is having a for that.” ribbon cutting Oct. 11 at 2 p.m. to celebrate She and Kolb have stayed busy in the their one-year anniversary.

“

”

Come celebrate our first anniversary with us on Oct. 11!

Stop by to enjoy some free snacks, and drawings for free gift items & flowers

Flowers and Gifts

139 N. Bent St. • 764-3688 M-F: 9-5 & Sat: 9-12

PAGE 14 14 PAGE

WOMENIN IN BUSINESS WOMEN BUSINESS

OF SUCCESS: Rovenna Cooley keeps a 3x5-inch photograph of her humble beginnings in a drawer at her desk. The unframed print, faded and curled with age, shows where she started her first sign business in the basement of her grandparent’s home.

Fast-forward nearly three decades and you can’t drive down the main streets of any town or city in the Big Horn Basin or southern Montana without seeing the products of Rovenna Signs and Designs. The Powell business is one of the area’s top design shops, helping local companies brand, package and advertise their wares.

Cooley likes to say her business started with a single paint brush. But her success story began long before she hand-painted her first sign.

Born in Powell, she had a love for art at a young age. Her childhood was filled with challenges, so she found comfort exploring her imagination. In fact, it made her stronger.

“Let’s just say my childhood gave me the drive to be self-sufficient and resilient,” she said. “I couldn’t fail. It wasn’t an option.”

After graduating from Northwest College, she moved out-of-state to attend the University of Minnesota, graduating with a degree in fine art. She didn’t take school lightly, finishing her scholastic career with a perfect 4.0 average from the program. She graduated summa cum laude, the school’s highest distinction.

“My fine art background is what gave me my edge. I had to learn the fundamental elements of design; line, shape, value, texture and color,” she said.

“I was disciplined, learning how to draw and paint, which I rely on frequently.”

Cooley returned to Wyoming after graduation and began teaching art classes part-time at NWC, but “I wasn’t cut out for that,” she said.

The economy was going through a lull. It forced her to get creative. Cooley had painted one sign for a college assignment and knew there was a market. So she went to the library to read every back-issue of SignCraft Magazine, taught herself hand-lettering and started making cold calls.

Her initial goal was to sell and design one sign a month, each painstakingly hand-painted. To help make ends meet

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2019 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10,10,2019

CELEBRATING THREE DECADES OF SERVICE in those early years, Cooley accepted a position as an assistant for famed Cody artist Harry Jackson.

Soon she was able to afford her first Apple computer, a Mac Classic with 8 megabytes of RAM. “I was on my way,” Cooley said. “My last day of work with Jackson I committed myself to my new business, going into debt to buy a brand new red Chevy pickup with my name on the side. I was all in. Again, failing wasn’t an option.”

Things changed quickly. While business boomed, the evolving computer age meant a steep learning curve. But Cooley embraced the ever-changing nature of technology, investing hundreds of thousands into top-of-the-line printers, cutters, laminators and an extensive computer system.

The shop had to grow to meet demand.

Eventually, Cooley built new offices on Tower Boulevard, including a large install bay for the vehicle graphics. She has customers ranging from mom and pop start-ups to large businesses and local, state and federal government agencies.

She hates to call those frequenting her shop customers because they feel more like friends. “They’re taking risks and I know how that feels,” Cooley said. “We’re all just trying to figure out how to make it in this crazy world.”

One of the benefits to owning her own business is being able to bring her pets to the office. Peanut, a fluffy bundle of joy, and Tyson, a gorgeous but mischievous cat, are frequent visitors in the shop.

When on the road, she can often be seen installing large signage with her husband John, or working with her niece, Melisa.

Next year Rovenna Signs and Design will celebrate 30 years serving Powell businesses. Word of Cooley’s beautiful designs, personal touch and attention to detail keep her spinning, often working on 20 projects a day from a broad array of businesses.

She’s been so busy it took her almost 20 years to get her own sign. Like everything she does at home, in the community and at her business, it was done with precision and grace.

“It’s been a great career,” she said.

“Often, when I leave on Fridays, I turn on my way out the door and say a quiet thank you for another good week.”

455 TOWER BLVD • POWELL, WY • 307-754-3068

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019 10, 2019 THURSDAY, OCTOBER

WOMENIN IN BUSINESS BUSINESS WOMEN

PAGE15 15 PAGE

From the ‘front line’

“ S a t i s f i e d , c o n t e n t, h a p py. t h a t ’ s my m o t t o. ” – C h e l l e S c h m i d t Chelle Schmidt is into her seventh year at Sunlight Federal Credit Union, which is a second career for her.

Ask her about the results of her first career, and she proudly lists off the names of her four grown children and where they are today.

“My job was to take care of the children. I was fully employed, just not gainfully employed,” she said.

She was raised in Powell. She moved away to Montana and graduated high school there. She then went to college and moved back in 1991.

“I look at Wyoming as my home, and we are very blessed to be here,” she said.

In 1991, she was working at Big Horn Federal Credit, where she had been for about a year.

Her husband, Kevin, was a patrol officer with the Powell Police Department, and they began to think it would be best if one of them stayed home with the children.

So for the next 20 years, Chelle became a stay at home mom, homeschooling her children “from start to finish.”

Then, in October 2011, her husband retired from the police department. At that point, he stayed home with the kids while Chelle went back to work.

“We kind of switched roles,” she said.

When she saw a teller position open at Sunlight in May 2012, she jumped at it.

“I enjoyed the interaction with the people. I enjoyed being able to help them,” she said of her previous work at credit unions.

She started out as a teller, which Sunlight calls their “front line” people, and then moved into the collections officer position. Today she’s the office manager of the Powell branch.

She said, for some people, a trip to the bank can instill as much anxiety as a trip to the dentist.

She strives to make visits to Sunlight a much more positive experience.

They’re not a large, national bank with those kinds of resources, but they are dedicated to helping people in the community.

“Satisfied, content, happy. That’s my

motto,” she said. “Sunlight’s motto is ‘People helping people.’ We’re going to take care of you if we can.”

She gains satisfaction from helping people with all kinds of financial needs.

For some, that’s as simple as help balancing a checkbook.

“Sometimes that can be really frustrating for some people,” she said.

Others are in a tight spot, and Schmidt said she really enjoys helping people get back on their feet.

“It’s very rewarding to me when someone comes in frustrated and distraught, and then when they leave, they’re on a different note,” she said.

Sunlight has recently began broadening its portfolio. In addition to personal and unsecured loans, it now offers business and agricultural loans.

While rewarding, her work is not without its challenges. The regulatory environment they work under is constantly changing and evolving, and it’s always a race to stay ahead of it.

“You get comfortable with one thing, and then it changes. You have to stay

on top of it all,” she said.

And as with any small business in a rural territory, staffing is always difficult, but she said they’ve been fortunate to have dedicated people on their team.

After seven years at Sunlight, moving from teller to office manager, Schmidt attributes a lot of her success to the simple fact she loves her job.

“If you’re passionate about what you’re doing, that’s contagious. People are going to see it, feel it, and know it.”

w w w. s u n l i g h t f c u. c o m » 3 7 4 N o r t h c l a r k » 3 0 7 - 7 5 4 - 7 1 9 1

PAGE 16

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

A love for pharmacy and people At Powell Drug, Kari Price provides care for all patients to the best of her ability

WHEN SOMEONE ASKS how you’re doing, it’s a habit for many of us to simply respond, “Fine.”

But pharmacist Kari Price at Powell Drug wants to truly know how you’re doing.

“When I ask, I really do care if your day is not going so well or you just won the lottery,” she said. “But more importantly, I want to know things like you have a dry hacking cough that won’t go away, your muscles are hurting, or you are just tired since starting your last medication — just to name a few.”

Price provides patient counseling at Powell Drug. As the pharmacist in charge, Price oversees the pharmacy activities and inventory. She also oversees pharmacy technicians’ work. When she’s inputting a prescription, Price is looking to see if the drug and directions seem appropriate, that the dosing is reasonable, and to identify for any drug or disease state interactions.

As part of her job, Price also makes sure patients understand why they take a medication and how to take it. The future of her pharmacy practice will include giving immunizations.

Ultimately, Price said her job at Powell Drug is to care for all patients to the best of her ability.

“I love the fact that my job lets me interact and build relationships with all kinds of people,” Price said. “I also love taking care of people and I love that my job allows me to do so.”

Price was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, and moved to Powell at the age of 4. Her dad had grown up here, and the family lived half a block away from her grand-

parents until her freshman year.

“I would go out the backyard and down the alley and be at my grandparents’ [house] fast,” she recalled.

Her sophomore year of high school brought changes as the family moved to central Florida, where she graduated from high school and started her college studies. Originally, Price started out in elementary education. Her parents were teachers, and she didn’t know what she wanted to do for her career.

“I was able to work as a pharmacy technician and it changed the path of my career,” Price said.

When she decided to go to pharmacy school, she basically had to start over, because the classes for elementary education were so different from those for pharmacy.

Price and her parents had decided to move back to Powell after seven years in Florida, and she enrolled at Northwest College.

“I love the fact that my job lets me interact and build relationships with all kinds of people.”

140 North Bent Street, Downtown Powell

“I took math classes over because the math requirements were different and it had been long enough from high school that I wanted to get a good foundation and understanding,” she said.

After completing her prerequisite classes, she then had four years of pharmacy school.

She completed her internship hours at Powell Drug. Her last year of schooling was basically rotations and experiencing different areas in the pharmacy field.

Then the final hurdle was passing the board of pharmacy exam and a law exam.

For women starting out in their education and careers, Price encourages them to do their homework.

“Know exactly what you need to do to accomplish your goal,” she said.

She missed a class that her advisor also didn’t catch, which set her back a little.

“Talk to people with experience and those just starting out in the career you want to go into,” she said, especially those who have just graduated. “Remember to have fun and relax.”

While she loves that there’s always something new in pharmacy and it isn’t boring, the job can be challenging, especially when working with insurances.

“It is very common that an insurance

307-754-2031

company wants a prior authorization which often delays the start of treatment for a patient or sometimes they have to use something that may not work as well,” she said.

But Price enjoys her work at Powell Drug, especially the interaction with the variety of age groups and personalities.

Price said she’s also blessed to be close to family. Her parents, siblings, and all but one of her nieces and nephew live in the Powell area.

“I have a niece who is serving in the Marines but I bet she ends up back here one day,” she said.

Price loves to cook and going to Disney World when she visits good friends in Florida.

“Let’s just face it, I am a Disney nerd,” she said.

While she enjoys visiting Florida, Price loves living in Wyoming.

“I like that people stop me on the street or the grocery store to show me pictures of their children, grandchildren and pets,” Price said.

She’s also proud of the fact that in Wyoming, we support each other — not just in our own communities, but across the state.

“The Wyoming spirit is one of friendship and caring,” Price said.

www.powellrx.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Building brands CONNECTING COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Megan Baumeister is in the business of bringing ideas to life.

As creative director of Tilt Shift Brands, she guides clients in their journey from a brilliant idea to a unique brand to a flourishing business.

“It’s just such an incredible opportunity to see someone thrive in their own passion,” Baumeister said.

A photographer at heart, Baumeister graduated from Northwest College and worked in an art gallery before learning how to code. She then began building websites and developing brands for companies in the Big Horn Basin.

We really “That’s what was needed to promote and ultimately showstrive to case what was going on here,” she said. connect Since founding Tilt Shift in 2017, Baumeister has partnered with a wide range of businesses, from healthcare procommunity viders just starting out to museums seeking a fresh look. partners Baumeister and her team love working with different clias much as ents in every stage of their business, coming alongside them to show the opportunities that exist — and how to get there. possible, “I enjoy helping them formulate that vision and create just to a plan for it, and then connecting them to other partners,” further their Baumeister said. “We really strive to connect community partners as much as possible, just to further their own voice.” own voice.

In our rural communities, it’s better to be connected and work together, she said.

Clients are sometimes nervous and vulnerable as they begin a new venture, but Baumeister is the voice of encouragement they need to hear.

Tilt Shift is there when a client chooses the name of their business, when they get their first business cards and when they open their doors.

“We watch it come to life,” she said. “That’s the beauty of it … you get to celebrate all of these milestones with them.”

Baumeister called it a “rare treat.”

As a young female business owner, Baumeister said it’s empowering to work with other women in the community.

“It’s not easy, yet they still choose to pursue this dream in the hopes of supporting their family,” she said. “To me, that is incredibly encouraging to see that we’re all in it together.”

Outside of her work at Tilt Shift, Baumeister and her husband spend much of their time outdoors, biking in the summertime and skiing in the winter.

PAGE 17

“As much as we can breathe in the fresh air,” she said.

A favorite local destination is the Beartooths, where she enjoys “exploring the mountains in every which way possible.”

Originally from the Midwest, Baumeister has lived in northern Wyoming for almost 10 years. “We haven’t found anywhere else that’s even remotely better,” she said.

Megan Baumeister

PAGE 18

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

YANCY INTERIORS + HOME

Creating beautiful spaces with whimsy.

www.yancyinteriors.com yancy@yancyinteriors.com | 307.586.4126 C O D Y, W Y O M I N G

Yancy Bonner’s interest in interior design start- prise, of whimsy, to help make spaces interesting ed when she was a little girl. and intriguing.”

“I was constantly rearranging my room, changBonner loves it when she and a client just ing color palettes,” she recalls. “click.”

Her passion for making places beautiful only “It makes this work so much fun when you grew as the years passed. are able to present new and fresh ideas and watch “I discovered I really loved making our houses them evolve in partnership with your clients,” she into spaces that reflected the personalities of the said. people who lived there,” Bonner said. “I helped It’s also gratifying to push people to go outside friends with paint selections and remodels. It re- their comfort zones to create truly personal spaces, ally just evolved from there.” she said.

Her “rather serendipitous route” to becoming “The best part is seeing clients settle into spaces a professional interior designer and founder of that truly reflect their personalities and bring them Yancy Interiors + Home traces back joy,” Bonner said. to the early 2000s, when Bonner beConversely, it can be difficult gan working for the Western Design if there isn’t an immediate rapport The best part is Conference in Cody. That led to the potential clients. seeing clients settle with“My opportunity to become the design job demands that I am ininto spaces that and home show coordinator for volved with my clients on a very Western Interiors + Design magapersonal level — that requires a retruly reflect their zine, a position Bonner held for five ally good back-and-forth relationpersonalities and years. She put together design and ship from the outset,” she said. bring them joy. home shows in Cody, Santa Fe and Budgets also bring challenges, San Francisco. “but I enjoy working to get my cliAfter exploring different opents the ‘best bang for the buck,’” tions, Bonner ultimately decided to return to Bonner said. school. She enrolled at the Academy of Art UniWhen she isn’t creating beautiful spaces, Bonversity in San Francisco and graduated with a mas- ner enjoys traveling, reading, cooking “and spendter’s degree in interior architecture and design in ing time in the wilds of this beautiful state.”

2017.

As a fifth-generation Wyoming woman, Bon“I learned so much about the process of interi- ner said she’s proud to live here and feels a deep or design in grad school — things that have been connection to the state. immensely helpful as I have evolved my hobby “Those of us who live here can be many things into a career,” Bonner said.

— we are sophisticated and down-to-earth; rugShe continues to take education courses to ged and fragile; solo and deeply connected,” she maintain her accreditation through the American said. “I don’t know that you get ‘permission’ to be Society of Interior Designers (ASID). so many different things in many places.”

“There’s always something new to learn,” BonBonner grew up in Cody and received a bachner said. elor’s degree from the University of Wyoming.

When working with clients at Yancy Interiors She and her husband, Brad, have a 12-year old + Home, Bonner begins by getting to know them daughter, and Bonner is also the proud stepmom better to determine how they are going to use their to Brad’s two older kids. space.

For young women starting out in their careers, “An empty-nest couple who doesn’t entertain Bonner said it’s important to be willing to do whathas much different needs from a young family or ever needs to be done — “especially as women a couple that entertains big groups regularly,” she working with mostly men in the contracting field.” said. “It’s important to gain an understanding of “You can’t be afraid to get dirty, climb ladders, what they do in their home.” get on roofs, put furniture together, or whip out She then looks at floor plans (for new con- a tape to measure a space,” she said. “No one has struction and major remodels) and does one or time for drama or people who don’t pull their more site visits to understand the existing spaces weight.” and/or views that will need to be maximized.

She also encouraged young women to never From there, Bonner works on concepts that think they’re stuck in a career. will inform the overall design direction.

“My career path has been extremely varied — “After we arrive at a concept we like, I’ll begin what I was happy doing at 25 isn’t what I’m happy to develop color palettes,” she said. “We then be- doing at 45,” Bonner said. “We grow and evolve gin to flesh out fabrics, furnishings and finishes. I over time, and our interests and passions are always aim to incorporate some elements of sur- bound to change as well.”

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“Working in healthcare is one of the most rewarding experiences imaginable.”

Nicole Ostermiller — PVHC COO

Powell Valley Healthcare As a critical access hospital, Powell Valley Healthcare operates in a tough environment. While these types of healthcare providers, many of which operate in rural areas, close at alarming rates, PVHC is expanding its services and renovating its facilities.

Four women make up PVHC’s executive team. They come from a variety of backgrounds and interests, and they have great things to say about their work at the hospital and why they keep at it in this very challenging industry.

“I love the operational aspect of my position — making certain our financial numbers reflect the actual work that is being done in our hospital,” said CFO Joy Coulston. “This ensures we have accurate facts to make the best decisions for PVHC and the community.”

For CEO Terry Odom, the best part of her job is mentoring.

“I have been fortunate to work with some very talented people throughout my career and hope that I have made an impact on their lives and careers,” Odom said.

The healthcare industry presents a number of unique difficulties they have to work through to be successful. There are a lot of regulations that govern the industry, and those change regularly.

“Assuring we have the capacity and continue to adhere to the regulations creates challenges for a small institution like PVHC,” Odom said.

Arleen Campeau, chief nursing officer, struggles with the recruiting challenges. Healthcare is a labor-intensive industry and finding qualified people in a sparsely populated area can be daunting.

However, Odom says, healthcare offers extensive career opportunities for women, which shouldn’t be underestimated.

“There are many more career choices for women than nursing,” the CEO said. “Women as healthcare leaders are becoming more prevalent, as are women holding senior leadership positions.”

Coulston also wanted to stress that careers in healthcare are not limited to patient care positions, such as nursing.

Such positions aren’t for everyone, and she said it really didn’t suit her personally.

“Becoming a nurse was not an option. Nobody pukes alone in my presence,” Coulston joked.

Nicole Ostermiller, the hospital’s COO, said the opportunties in the industry offer a lot in the way of personal fulfillment.

“If you are considering a career in healthcare, pursue the opportunities. They are endless. Working in healthcare is

one of the most rewarding experiences imaginable,” she said.

Having worked hard to achieve their success in their field, The PVHC executives also say Wyoming is a great place they have advice for younger women just starting out today. for women to live, work, and grow “Set goals and keep on learntheir careers. ing. always keep in mind “Women as healthcare leaders that Always, change is inevitable and “The independence of the state makes me proud to live here,” Odom are becoming more prevalent, learn to work with and embrace said. “Women are equal and valued change,” Campeau suggested.

Odom pointed out that your for their contributions to the work- as are women holding senior force. Women have the opportunity first choice doesn’t have to take leadership positions.” to become business leaders and are you all the way to retirement.

Terry Odom — PVHC CEO Sometimes, you start somewhere recognized for their contributions.”

Coulston also points out the beauty of the state. and then go in another direction later.

“Don’t think you have to commit to one career choice for “You can find beauty and peace anywhere!” she said. “It is filled (but not too filled) with amazingly independent, hard- your entire work career. Do work that makes you happy and working, caring folks!” you are passionate about,” she said.

Terry Odom, Chief Executive Officer, Arleen Campeau, Chief Nursing Officer, Joy Coulston, Chief Financial Officer, and Nicole Ostermiller, Chief Operating Officer.

777 Avenue H | Powell, Wyoming | 307.754.2267 | www.pvhc.org

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It’s so rewarding when you explain the mission to someone who knows nothing about it, and there’s that moment when they really start to see the value and purpose of what you’re trying to do.

”

A special place to live Nikki Hoellwarth didn’t plan a career in nonprofits, but that’s where her paths took her.

She’s currently executive director of Habitat for Humanity.

The organization builds modest and decent affordable housing to Park County residents who are in 30 to 60 percent of the county median income.

“Housing in Park County is really expensive,” Hoellwarth said.

It was something she learned when she first moved to Cody and tried to find a rental within her budget. That proved difficult, and when she looked into buying a house, she found singlefamily housing wasn’t any more affordable.

From these high housing costs comes homelessness. Hoellwarth said it’s a problem here, but it’s a problem that’s harder for people to see.

“Homelessness looks a little bit different here than it does in big cities,” she explained. “You don’t have someone on the street corner holding a sign. Instead, they’re couch surfing or staying with friends and family for an extended time, until they move on. So it’s not as apparent here.”

The thing she enjoys about working in nonprofits is also the thing that makes the job challenging.

Describing the organization’s mission and getting people to be as passionate about it as she is, and then getting them to donate their time and money, is difficult but also exciting.

“It’s so rewarding when you explain the mission to someone who knows nothing about it, and there’s that moment when they really start to see the value and purpose of what you’re trying to do. To get them on board with it is what I live for,” she said.

She got a degree in hospitality management and wanted to go into event planning.

When she graduated in 2010, the recession was on and the job market was bleak. Like many graduates who entered the workforce at that time and were unable to find the job they wanted, she took the first job she could get.

That happened to be as a career services coordinator for a small, nonprofit technical community college in Shreveport, Louisiana.

She really liked the work and has remained in nonprofits ever since.

Hoellwarth wasn’t always a Wyomingite. She is originally from Gallup, New Mexico, and has lived all over the United States, including California and Texas, and she even lived in Europe for a year.

After moving to Wyoming, she fell in love with its culture, including the “strong, empowered

509 Gateway Drive • Powell

‘An investment in yourself pays the best interest’ women who live here.”

“Wyoming is a remarkably special place to live,” she said.

“This is going to be my home forever.”

Starting her career in one of the worst economies in decades and then finding success in something she loves has given her some insight into what young women face today.

She was recently talking to her niece who just graduated high school and is wondering what she’s going to do next.

“She’s just genuinely scared about life, about work, and about relationships. And I remember what that’s like when I was her age,” Hoellworth said.

Her advice is, “An investment in yourself pays the best interest. Go to school, water your friendships, be good to your mom and dad, and invest in yourself, and you’ll do great. You got this.”

225 North Bent St • Powell

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Front row from left: Hannah Winland, Wendy McAndrews, Dede Anders, Dr. Sapp, Amy Johnson, Ashley Jarrett, Rhonda Jordan Back row from left: Tyra Nicholson, Tolyn Brewer, Colette Mild, Heather Bales, Wendy Glatzer, Hannah Little, Julie Mann

Caring for the Community When Heritage Health Center opened in September 2015, The center is a Federally Qualified Health Center, it had three employees. Today, it has 17 employees, 15 of which are community-based healthcare providers that which are women. They occupy three offices downtown, and receive federal funding to provide primary care services in they just opened another office in Greybull. underserved areas.

Health care is a difficult industry, and despite its many Part of the requirements for its FQHC status is to charge challenges, the clinic is growing qualifying self-paying patients and thriving.

— those without insurance — on “I think that’s indicative of a sliding scale based on their Our goal is to make Powell one women,” CEO Colette Mild said. incomes. of the healthiest communities in “You just make it work. You “I believe all people should the U.S. — Colette Mild, CEO look at the Wyoming heritage of be offered services regardless women who pushed the equality of their income status or what movement through. They were insurance they have. I love the defying the odds and saying, ‘We’re going to find a way job, and I love our patients. We have a great team who to get it done.’ I think Heritage Health Center is a good are passionate about our patients,” said Heather Bales, representation of that in the sense we’re going to figure out behavioral health director. how to get it done. I can’t tell you how right now, but we will.”

The center’s services are not limited to self-paying Mild, who was one of the original three employees, patients, however. Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial attributes the center’s success to its staff, which includes a insurance patients make up 70 percent of those who are couple men, who bring to the center different backgrounds seen at Heritage. and skillsets. They’re all passionate about providing “Anyone is welcome at the health center,” Mild said. affordable primary care to the community of Powell — and The center is run by a community board of directors, now Greybull, too. and federal regulations require that 51 percent of the “That way a cold doesn’t turn into pneumonia, where a board’s members use the clinic. That way, those making patient misses weeks of work. A $20 visit to our clinic might decisions about the clinic are also its patients.

Besides providing primary care services, the center prevent a $500 visit to the emergency room,” Mild explained.

coordinates with other providers in the area to create a continuum of care, such as directing patients to affordable dental services. And they go the extra mile to ensure the health of their patients, whatever it is they need.

“The health center provides comprehensive case management services to include finding ways to pay for medical equipment or social services,” Mild said.

They also track referrals for those patients that are directed to other providers.

“It is such a joy to come to work where everyone is moving toward the same goal all day long,” said Dr. Juanita Sapp, the center’s chief medical officer.

Following the same integrated primary care approach, the clinic provides short-term behavioral health services.

For example, a diabetes patient who had a recent death in the family may eat too many sweets to cope with grief.

Counseling can help the patient improve their diet, which addresses the whole patient.

“Our goal is to make Powell one of the healthiest communities in the U.S.,” Mild said.

Movement toward that goal is an ongoing process, which the center pursues with relentless perseverance every day.

We have high goals and plans for our future to continue to serve our patients,” Bales said. “Our patients are also a huge driving success for us.”

307-764-4107 • 128 North Bent Street • Downtown Powell

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‘We love this community’ Pictured from left: Jessica Lum, Rebekah Burns, Christine Bekes and Shaylee Hancock

PEP, Powell Chamber, Powell Visitor Center serve all of Powell The hard-working women at the helm of Powell Economic Partnership are committed to the health of the business community as well as the quality of life in the Powell Valley.

“We feel very fortunate to live and work in this idyllic little town,” said Rebekah Burns, Visitor Center Coordinator.

The team members — Executive Director Christine

Bekes, Membership Coordinator/Office Manager Shaylee Hancock, Grants Manager Jessica Lum and Burns — bring diverse experiences and expertise to PEP/Powell Chamber/Powell Visitor Center.

Christine Bekes

Rebekah Burns

Shaylee Hancock

Jessica Lum

Christine Bekes’ roots run deep in the Powell Valley, as she grew up on the Willwood in the same house where her father spent his childhood. After graduating from PHS, Bekes went East, living there for 20 years as she also traveled extensively internationally.

She returned to Powell and discovered “this awesome and fun ‘work’ as an economic developer” about five years ago during the community process to develop Powell’s Strategic Plan.

“I loved the process of engaging individuals for a larger vision and strategy, so of course I wanted to be a part of the implementation!” Bekes said. “Since that first experience, I have enjoyed being able to utilize my entrepreneurial skills, my ability to connect people and my understanding of political landscapes for Powell.”

Economic development is a team effort, and “we consider the community of Powell all part of the team,” she said.

Bekes is thankful to call Wyoming home.

“Hard-working, everyday women in Wyoming make me proud to be here alongside them,” Bekes said. “We took our homesteading and frontier strength and translated it into a leadership and business world.”

Bekes, her significant other and her daughter love all the epic outdoor adventures in every season in Wyoming — fishing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, paddle boarding and skiing.

Rebekah Burns and her family moved to Powell four years ago and love it here.

“The community has been very welcoming, the town is super safe and it’s very pedestrian friendly,” Burns said. “The schools are amazing.”

When she was first hired to work for PEP in 2017, she found that when searching for “Powell, Wyoming” online, there was little to no information easily available.

With her extensive experience in content creation and digital marketing, Burns went to work.

“Researching and uncovering stories about our region is something I truly enjoy,” she said. “There is so much to talk about! I’ve just scratched the surface.” For instance, 80 percent of Park County’s land is federally managed, so “most of the land is there for everyone to enjoy,” she said.

“John Wesley Powell has also been a mild obsession of mine,” Burns said.

“Our namesake is absolutely amazing and I’ve enjoyed talking about him to special interest groups, the Powell library and kids at Powell Middle School.”

She and her husband and their two sons love the outdoors, and explore as much as possible year-round.

“With the enormous amounts of public lands, Heart Mountain is the only trail that we have hiked more than once,” she said.

A Wyoming native, Shaylee Hancock grew up in Laramie and Burlington, where she graduated from high school in 2014. After living elsewhere and marrying a man from Arizona, she brought him back to Wyoming “where the weather is much more enjoyable.”

They love to be outdoors, whether that’s fishing, snowboarding or taking their two dogs on hikes.

Her husband now works for the Powell Police Department, “and we love this community,” she said.

Hancock wanted to work for PEP when she met Bekes and Burns.

“They are so knowledgeable and really encompass what it means to have work life balance and be strong women in business,” she said. “The diverse work that is done in this office is all for the community and that is another thing that really stood out to me.”

The nonprofit serves the entire community. “We aren’t just for visitors and we aren’t just for our members,” she said. “Any and all community members are welcome as well as questions. If we don’t know the answer, we will find it for you!”

After living “a bit of a gypsy life” that took her to the San Francisco Bay Area, Alaska, Dominican Republic, China and North Ghana, Jessica Lum is thankful to live in Wyoming.

“I love our corner of the state for all of the outdoor recreation activities it offers and the change in seasons,” she said.

“Though I am not a native, I am proud of the opportunities it provides, especially those for anyone who wants to make their own way.”

She has lived in Powell the last four years with her partner and his children, with one more on the way.

Lum recently started working for PEP/Powell Chamber/Powell Visitor Center.

“I wanted to be part of the initiatives and projects they accomplish for Powell,” Lum said, adding, “I am so happy to be a part of this team!”

She said they have the best interests of Powell in mind. “Though our staff is small, we possess a tremendous amount of knowledge, resources, experience and energy that is willing and ready to help the Powell community and surrounding areas,” Lum said.

PEP

POWELL ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

Powell

Powell Chamber VISITOR CENTER

OF COMMERCE

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

PAGE 23

Caring for the whole patient THIS IS A DIFFERENT MODEL ...

One of the things that happens here is you’re not looked at like a dollar sign or patient number — you’re looked at as an individual.

W

hen an overwhelmed mom takes a sick child in for a check-up at Five Springs Health and Wellness, Shelby Frost isn’t only concerned about treating the child’s sore throat — she cares about the mom, too.

“Women tend to take care of themselves last,” Frost said. “We’re so worried about keeping everything together.”

As Frost asks women about their own health, she can help with what’s truly bothering them, whether they’re burned out, depressed or dealing with other medical issues.

At Five Springs Health and Wellness, Frost and her team care about the whole family and the whole person — from their mental well-being to their physical health.

“This is a different model,” she said. “One of the things that happens here is you’re not looked at like a dollar sign or patient number — you’re looked at as an individual.”

A nurse practitioner with more than 15 years of healthcare experience, Frost founded Five Springs in Powell last year.

The reason was simple: “I love people, and I want to help people,” she said.

Frost especially enjoys women’s health, pediatrics and mental health.

She discovered her love for nursing while attending Northwest College as a single mom and non-traditional student. It wasn’t the field she initially planned to pursue, but after a degree check showed she was close to a nursing degree, she decided to go for it.

Frost continued her education while working full-time at North Big Horn Hospital in Lovell.

Her passion for healthcare only deepened when she received her nurse practitioner degree from the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota.

As she worked to become a nurse practitioner and went on to open Five Springs, Frost wanted the legacy she leaves for her children to be “that they can do anything they put their mind to.”

From wellness check-ups to women’s specific care to physical exams, Five Springs provides primary care for the entire family.

In addition, the staff provides health coaching and nutritional coaching, talking with patients about what compels them to eat unhealthy.

“Maybe it’s money; maybe it’s time,” Frost said. “There’s no judgment here. It’s all about cracking the egg and getting inside to find out what we need to do to make everyone healthier and feel better.”

Five Springs also is the first local clinic to specialize in bioidentical hormone replacement for men and women, which can help those struggling with lack of energy, inability to lose weight, difficulty sleeping or other issues.

For women going through hormone imbalance or menopause, “there’s more things that are natural that we can do that don’t have so many side effects,” Frost said.

Frost values the relationship she has with her patients and encourages them to

Shelby Frost be open about some of their most intimate concerns. She understands that helping her patients find solutions to these problems are paramount in optimizing their health.

“A big part of us being healthy is our social interactions, our relationships, feeling loved, intimacy, our relationship with our partner — that’s a huge part of our health,” she said.

Mental health is also a focus at Five Springs.

“I feel like all of us have times in our life when we’re anxious or we’re down, and we need somebody to help pull us out of that hole,” Frost said. “I know that I’m not immune to it either. I’ve had really hard knocks in my life.”

She and her husband, Stuart, have five

Shelby Frost

children. Two years ago, her stepson passed away. Amid their grief, the family was thankful for the community’s support and compassion.

“When you’re stricken by tragedy, you realize how important your community is and how hospitable the people of Wyoming are,” Frost said. “They will do anything for you.”

She’s thankful to live in a caring, rural state, and for her business to be rooted in Park County. Five Springs serves almost 1,100 patients from Powell and surrounding communities, including Cody, Lovell, Byron, Thermopolis, Greybull, Basin, Manderson, Frannie and Red Lodge.

Being centrally located in Powell “is the perfect place for what we have going on here,” Frost said.

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‘Wyoming Grit’

helps drive Mountain High Health Foods For 21 years, Martie Clark and her husband Jim have provided the Big Horn Basin with healthy choices for natural supplements and natural foods at their Mountain High Health Foods store in Cody.

She is the first to acknowledge that she would not have been able to build her successful business without her partner and husband, Jim. “He is my Rock,” she proclaims. “We are often told that our store has the best selection anywhere. This makes us very proud.”

Jim grew up in Lovell. He is licensed in Respiratory Care/Cardiovascular Technology, and has an excellent background in cardiovascular health nutrition.

Martie grew up in Cody on the Quick Ranch, a cattle, sheep and family farming ranch operation. It’s the same ranch that was just recently sold to entertainer Kanye West.

“I had the most wonderful life anyone could ever imagine as a small child,” Martie said. “I learned the value of hard, hard work in the coldest of winters and hottest of summers! There were eight of us, which included three siblings and my four cousins, and four parents and grandparents.”

All of the kids were taught the value of honesty, respect for their elders and others, and the value of doing a good and complete job, she said.

“We worked hard and played harder alongside of each other,” Martie said. “We all respected our parents and grandparents. I think this respect of others is missing from communication of some people. My mother always stressed to me, ‘You are an equal to anyone. You can do anything with determination.’ I often reflect on these words, and I feel that advice has given me Wyoming Grit. I love EVERYTHING about our store.”

She looks forward to each day, knowing she will meet new and old customers who have appreciated the store for its help with their health concerns. “I live for this business. It is so very challenging and educational,” she said.

The field of health foods and natural products is broad and deep.

“We have an obligation to our customers to stock products that provide good nutritional support. And that requires a lot of reading and research. So, I rely on Jim to sort out all the information available,” Martie noted.

“We have a huge selection of high quality supplements and a great selection of natural foods for various health and diet restrictions. We have a data base that can provide our customers with excellent information on vitamins and herbs and what they can be used for.”

Employees at Mountain High Health Foods are a key asset of the business.

“We are told often, by customers, how our employees are so helpful and interested in the customer. We enjoy our employees and appreciate their hard work and fun times together,” Martie emphasized. “Each individual employee has a direct, integral part of our strong business. We appreciate them so much. They help our customers make good choices to improve their health.”

Martie is passionate about her love for Wyoming and proud to say she has been a resident of the state for 70 years. “And God Bless the Wyoming Women of this State,” she affirms.

Martie has been handed a health challenge of her own, and she is meeting it head-on. One year ago, July 17, she was diagnosed with Peritoneal Carcinomatosis, cancer of the peritoneal membrane.

“I had a choice to live, and I am determined to get through this,” she declared.

To step beyond and above being told she had four to six months to live, she made the choice to be treated at the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, Utah.

“My team of doctors has kept me alive with strong chemo treatments and a 12-hour surgery that removed 13 organs from my body,” she related. “I have an unending determination and Wyoming Grit to beat this cancer. My doctors have been very encouraging to my use of natural cancer fighting supplements available from our health foods store.”

Martie has been encouraged by comments from customers and the support of prayers from close communities and from across the state and nation. She said she has appreciated the wonderful advice and care of Dr. Juanita Sapp of Heritage Health Center in Powell, of whom she said: “She is a Wyoming Woman” with a great education, determination and respect for others. And she was raised in Powell.

How wonderful it is that she came back to her roots to care for all of us.”

Front row, from left: Martie Clark, Nickie Hough, Lynda McMillan and Bonnie Ericson Middle row, from left: Jim Clark, Amy Withrow and LeaAnn McDonald Back row, from left: Sharon Smith, Madeleine Haugen and Cammy Rodeman

1902 17th Street Top of the Hill • Cody, WY

307-587-1700

Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm • Sat: 9am-5pm

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019 10, 2019 THURSDAY, OCTOBER

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PAGE25 25 PAGE

FOR KATHEE HERNANDEZ

Building relationships is at the heart of banking

O

n the surface, Kathee Hernandez is as a stint at a Cody bank.

The Cody girl married a Powell boy in in the banking business.

But she will tell you there’s much 1979, and Ray and Kathee Hernandez more to the story. In bottom line terms, moved to Powell to begin their lives together. She began her employment at First she’s in the relationship business.

The secret of her success as Vice Presi- National Bank in 1985.

“For the first 10 years, my job was more on dent and Personal Banker Supervisor at First Bank in Powell is her cultivation of cus- the new accounts side, working with and tomer relationships on behalf of First Bank. establishing new accounts,” she related.

As banking She makes perchanged, her sonal connecShe’s an outstanding role evolved into tions for the full customer rebank every day. relationship builder. First and lationship buildKathee has meeting been in her po- foremost in her process is taking ing, new people and sition for 34 care of the customer. She does all the while years. working with “I was given an outstanding job of it. long-time cusan opportunity tomers. with First Na— Dick Nelson, First Bank Board Chairman “I really enjoy tional Bank (now First Bank) to become a new accounts knowing both sides of banking, so I can representative that turned into an amaz- help not only the checking account opening career that I am forever thankful for,” ing, but I can help the customer with a car loan or a camper loan,” Kathee said. “You she said.

She grew up in Cody where her parents, become personally involved with your cusDick and Clarabelle Barsness, owned a tomers, and they depend on you for your drug store. That’s where she first learned expertise and your trust. I really enjoy that.”

Dick Nelson, chairman of the board of the value of customer service, perfect preparation for the role she supervises at First Bank, said that plays to Kathee’s First Bank. She worked at the drug store for strength.

“She’s an outstanding relationship buildmost of her young adulthood years, as well

er,” he offered. “First and foremost in her ties,” Kathee beamed.

After having literally worked her way up process is taking care of the customer. She through the ranks, she wants other young does an outstanding job of it.”

“Everybody can make a loan,” he said. women to know the opportunities are out there.

“Everybody can open “Be patient and an account. But those learn as much as you who can make a relacan so your knowltionship with the cusedge becomes a tomer and her family valued asset,” she set them apart. She’s counsels. very good at that.”

Kathee is proud Technology has that Wyoming, the changed dramatiEquality State, offers cally over the last endless opportunities three decades, and to women in the work staying on top of force. those changes is a She fully apprecireal challenge in the ates the outdoorsy banking world. “That, aspect of Wyoming, and keeping up with but her love and recompliance since it is spect for Wyoming constantly changing,” goes further.

Kathee added.

“I can’t think of ever She and Ray have leaving Wyoming. You three children. They’re know your neighbors. the W Club: West, Kathee at her First National Bank You trust your neighWade and Whitney. post in the mid 1980s. bors. You’re not just All grew up and went through the Powell schools, now are mar- a face in the grocery store or anywhere you go,” she said. “You can acknowledge ried and on their own career paths.

“And I have seven beautiful grandchil- people wherever you meet them, and they dren who keep me busy with their activi- will respond.”

www.GoFirstBank.com

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GRACE&GRIT D R I V I N G

F O R C E

B E H I N D

S U CC E S S

National Women in Business Month is a time to recognize and applaud the talented, dedicated and driven women, whose spirits help drive Wyoming. Wyoming women are resilient, full of grit and grace, independent and value teamwork. And these four leaders are no exception.

LORA JEFFS VP of Real Estate Lending Lora has been a fixture in banking, and the Powell community, for more than 33 years. She is well-known for helping customers achieve their dreams of home ownership, as well as her generosity, kindness, and contagious laugh.

Of course, the process is only simple for her customers because she and her team make it so. “I love building relationships and seeing borrowers excited about their new homes,” said Jeffs.

What does she think about being a leader in a family-owned, Wyoming business?

“We’re different here,” stated Jeffs. “Wyoming women are fierce and determined, making great leaders and I’m lucky to have learned from and be surrounded by many.”

When asked who her greatest female influences have been, she says all women who juggle a career and family inspire her. Lora admires women’s ability to walk the tight rope, balancing professional and personal duties and manage to get it all done.

KODI COOLEY Real Estate Lender Kodi has been in banking for the past 18 years, starting out as a teller and working various other jobs before climbing her way to a lending position.

It is Kodi’s work ethic and innate ability to go above and beyond for customers that has propelled her into a leadership role.

“I have always loved numbers and math but working with people is what I most love about my job,” said Cooley.

When asked if anyone throughout her career has helped mold her leadership skills she said, “I am fortunate to have worked with many amazing people, but Lora (Jeffs) has had a profound impact on my success. She has always believed in me and leads by example, through her hard work for customers and unwavering commitment to our community. She is the best, no way around it, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without her guidance, encouragement and support.”

In addition, she said, “My grandma and mom both showed me the value of a dollar and what it means to work hard, which molded and prepared me. They are strong Wyoming women!”

LORI FOSTER Operations Officer

From left are Jean Kalberer, Lora Jeffs, Kodi Cooley and Lori Foster.

T H E WAY B A N K I N G S H O U L D B E POWELL 175 N. Evarts St., 307.754.7955 wypinnbank.com

Lori’s banking career began when she was in high school, where she was part of a co-op program between her school and a local bank. Fast forward eight years later, raising her family in Wyoming, she now leads one of the main departments at Pinnacle Bank.

While Lori is a leader within the bank, she is also a mom to young children and says it is always a balancing act between work and motherhood. When asked if she has advice for other women starting out, she said, “I would encourage them to not be too hard on themselves and never let anyone tell them that something isn’t possible.”

Lori has drawn on her past experiences, with great leaders, to remind her of what she desires to bring to her management role. “I had a previous supervisor who made sure her knowledge of the industry became my knowledge,” stated Foster.

“Her encouraging and supportive management skills are what I wish to replicate every day I walk in the door.”

JEAN KALBERER Personal Banker Jean came to Pinnacle Bank in 2015 and quickly rose throughout the ranks. It is her passion for learning, eagerness to take on new tasks and ability to make each customer feel as if they are her only customer that have all contributed to her rise in the company.

Jean has a long history in banking (since 1988) and encourages other women seeking leadership positions to be brave enough to find their voice, always stand up for what they believe in, and never sell themselves short.

“Part of being a Wyoming woman is being independent, strong and adventurous,” stated Kalberer. “These are all qualities that make successful leaders, which each Wyoming woman already embodies by living and thriving in our great state; just go for it.”

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019 THURSDAY, OCTOBER

10, 2019

WOMENIN IN BUSINESS WOMEN BUSINESS

PAGE27 27 PAGE

Gettings Crop:

DEEPLY ROOTED IN PARK COUNTY

BETSIE GETTINGS

307-254-4613 645 Main Street • PO Box 732 Ralston, Wyoming EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER

An out-of-the-blue phone call changed the direction of Betsie Gettings’s career. One afternoon, Larry French at Mountain West Farm Bureau called and said he heard she was looking for a new job. He asked Gettings to come in for an interview.

“I was covered in paint from a project that I was doing and therefore, was not prepared for a job interview,” she said. “But, he told me to come in anyway.”

French’s wife, Toni, was leaving her job as a production assistant for crop insurance, and Gettings was later hired for the position.

Gettings and French eventually formed a partnership in 2016, and now work together as Gettings Crop LLC. Wanting only to focus on crop insurance, Gettings Crop contracted with a company that allows agents to concentrate on that specialty.

“Now I am contracted with four different companies writing crop insurance, and giving my clients and area farmers more “Now I am choices,” she said. contracted with For Gettings, working alongside farmers is the best part of her job. She’s known many of them since her childhood. four different “... Some even remember me as a little baby,” Gettings said. companies “I grew up and went to school with some of their kids, and I even babysat some of their kids.” writing crop She enjoys helping farmers figure out the best product for insurance, and protecting their livelihood.

It’s sad to hear how tough things are getting for farmers, she giving my clients said, with some saying this could be their last year. and area farmers For some, “if things don’t change, they are going to have to hang up their hat as a farmer,” Gettings said. more choices.”

It’s also difficult to see farms sold and turned into subdivi— BETSIE GETTINGS sions.

“Once this farmland is gone, it’s gone,” Gettings said. “... once farming leaves this area, it won’t take long for it to become the desert that borders the farmland.”

However, she’s working to do her part to help farmers continue to farm.

When a hailstorm hits, Gettings runs through the list to make sure everyone has been contacted and that farmers have their hail insurance in place.

“After the storm passes, when the phone starts ringing, it can get rough getting the report of who was hit and how bad they were hit,” she said.

While Gettings likes rain, “these rainstorms can be devastating to a farmer who is trying to get their crop in for the year.”

As a fourth-generation Powellite, Gettings’s roots in agriculture run deep. Her great-grandfather, Niels Nielsen, came from Denmark and helped homestead the Powell area. His homestead was on Seventh Street, and his house occupied the ground for many years until it was torn down for The Surrey housing complex and apartments.

Both Gettings’s grandfather, Robert Nielsen, and great-uncle, Norman Nielsen, came home from World War II to farm. Her grandfather farmed north of Powell for many years, while her great-uncle helped homestead Heart Mountain.

Gettings’s parents, Larry and Deb Nielsen, were born and raised in Powell.

Gettings and her husband, Shawn, have a 16-month-old son, Norman. They enjoy going camping in their 1983 Holiday Rambler camper trailer that they have redone.

“I like to go fishing with my husband who has tried to teach me how to fly fish, but I think I will stick to the ‘normal’ fishing pole,” Gettings said.

In the fall and winter, she enjoys hunting for deer and elk.

“One day I will draw my moose tag,” she said.

When not outside, Gettings is in her kitchen cooking, baking or canning.

Gettings is thankful to live in Wyoming, where you know your neighbors and care about them, and where communities rally around one another.

“In many cases we see this when tragedy hits, the whole state comes together to support the other in many different ways — praying, financial support or any other way they can,” she said.

Gettings also appreciates the views that aren’t obstructed by skyscrapers.

“I love that you can walk out your front door and be surprised by a doe and fawn standing in your yard,” she said.

For young Wyoming women starting out in their careers, Gettings encouraged them to work hard.

“Take criticism along with the advice,” she said. “But follow what your gut tells you.”

Gettings is thankful for all the people who have helped along the way to her career — including Larry and Toni French, “for taking a chance and hiring a gal with paint splatters on her jeans, recognizing my potential and helping me reach my goals.”

She also thanked her parents, Larry and Deb Nielsen, for instilling a strong work ethic in their daughters. Larry retired as the foreman of the Park County Road and Bridge Department after serving for 36 years, while Deb worked as the receptionist at Big Horn Eye Care for 23 years.

Gettings thanked her husband, Shawn, for supporting her and her goals: “Even when it means we buy a coffee shop and convert it into my office,” she said, referring to Gettings Crop’s building in Ralston.

Most of all, Gettings thanked the farmers and producers who have entrusted her with their crop insurance and allow her to work beside them and their farming operations.

“I would not be where I am without them,” she said.

PAGE 28

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Kelly Laughlin wraps life’s work into her own printing business It’s not a stretch to say that printing and graphic design have been the rhythms in Kelly Laughlin’s life.

The print shop even produced her husband.

“My interest began in high school on the yearbook staff and working on the school newspaper, The Salishian, in Polson, Montana,” she related. “My high school sweetheart, now husband George, was in the graphics class that printed the monthly issue.”

After marriage, she was a stay-at-home mom with her two young children while her husband worked for the Pioneer Press in Jackson. Later, she had the opportunity to work part-time as a typesetter for the partner company of Pioneer Press, the Jackson Hole Guide.

Then George got a call from Northwest College in Powell offering him the full-time press operator position in the college print shop, and in tandem, Kelly was offered a parttime composition job in the same print shop.

They relocated to Powell, and Kelly picked up

a second part-time composition position at the Powell Tribune.

At the Tribune, “I had the unforgettable privilege to work for Dave and the late Diane Bonner. My family and I have wonderful memories, and I was able to take life-long, not only printing skills, but more valuable skills with me that I use every day,” Kelly said.

“While I enjoyed my two part-time jobs, one working side by side wth my husband, it was at this time I was offered a full-time graphic design position at a local commercial print shop. Our youngest child was now in first grade attending school full-time; we decided I could take on a full-time position,” she recalled.

That was the start of a 25-year association with Polecat Printery as a graphic designer (which sometimes included office manager).

“There I was really able to develop and hone my skills,” Kelly said. “I also took college classes to keep up with the ever-evolving printing and design world. All of these past ex-

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

periences and the college classes prepared me lives,” Kelly noted. “I’ve printed their birth anwith the skill set, expertise and customer base nouncements, baby shower invites, birthday, I needed to eventually start my own printing graduation and wedding invitations, family business — Design | Print | Market with Kelly.” funeral programs, their first business cards With the encouragement of client relation- and letterhead, both personal and professionships over 25 years, “it has been amazing to al projects. They aren’t just clients of Design | reignite the excitement of visiting with clients Print | Market with Kelly; they are my friends and creating their printing projects,” Kelly and family.” said. “I offer design printing and marketing for Kelly and George prize the spirit and valall printing needs. All I ask is the opportunity ues of Wyoming. to quote your next printing project.”

“We love how honest, hard-working and Both of their children, George IV and friendly Wyoming people are,” she said. “They Jessica, attended kindergarten are willing to help one another, through high school in Powell.

‘To say that our reaching out and not waiting George is a University of Wyfor someone else to take care of oming alum, and Jessica is an family takes pride the situation.” alum of Northwest College.

In branding her printing in living in the “To say that our family takes and design business, Kelly was community of pride in living in the commuhesitant to include her name in nity of Powell wouldn’t do it Powell wouldn’t the title of the company. justice,” Kelly said. “We enjoy “Then I remembered that do it justice.’ volunteering our time and enwhenever someone called, they ergy anywhere and everywhere would ask for Kelly,” she said. needed and love supporting our PHS Pan- “They may not know who Kelly is, but they thers, our Northwest Trappers, and, of course, were confident Kelly knew what paper their our Wyoming Cowboys. We founded a de- job was printed on, and what number to start cade-long, co-ed benefit softball tournament, with in a new order. I’ve also included a smiley led many one-time fundraisers and have face in my logo. . . living and working in this helped with numerous others in their time of community has always put a smile on my face. need. It’s just what you do.”

Thank you, Powell. Thank you, Wyoming.”

The Laughlins’ deep community roots are evident in Kelly’s printing business.

“I take pride in knowing each of my clients personally and have been fortunate to be by their side through many stages of their

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Women helping women in business — Pictured left to right: Jessica Laughlin, WYOld West Brewing Co. (Powell) and Taproom (Cody); Codi Gines of MM Auction Services; Pokey Heny of American Dream Drive-In; Jen Urwiller of Perky J Upholstery; Kelly Laughlin of Design • Print • Market with Kelly; Tawnya Herdt of Bar T Electric; Melanie Matthews of The Body Shop; Colleen Johnson of Johnsons’ Oil and Water Service; and Rochelle Wagner with Rusty of Warrior Ranch Emotional Support Dogs.

Thank you ladies for sharing this journey with me and thank you Perky J for allowing us to take this photo in your studio.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

PAGE 29

McKinney inspires the next generation of historians For Northwest College associate professor Amy McKinney, history is not something to simply be learned from a textbook and memorized. Instead, vibrant visions of the rugged American frontier and trailblazing women of the West are brought to life in her class.

As a fourth generation Montanan, McKinney has always been passionate about inspiring the next generation of historians, but this year is particularly important to her.

“The Wyoming Office of Tourism has declared 2019 the Year of Wyoming Women because the state’s gearing up to celebrate the 150th anniversary of women’s suffrage,” she explained.

“Harriette Cushman was a woman in a man’s job in agriculture. She was the first woman to be in charge of a topic specialty outside of home demonstration in the Extension Service.” She served in Montana from 1922 to 1955.

It’s fun to show the community what great students we have here.

Whether it’s presenting at conferences, researching or teaching, much of McKinney’s work in recent years has prepared her to share this historic landmark with her students— particularly those in her Women of the West class. McKinney received a grant from the American Heritage Center in Laramie and is currently using their archival material on Wyoming women in the course this semester.

As part of the course, students will host a series of public presentations throughout the fall semester featuring Wyoming women from a variety of occupations.

“The big culminating event at Northwest College will be December 10th, which is the official 150th anniversary. The students will present their research, the audience will vote on their favorite and the student who gets the most votes will win $150 dollars,” she said.

“One aspect of the Women of the West class I really enjoy is looking at the intersection of race, class and gender—the power structure among women because I think that sometimes gets lost. Not all women have the same experience in the West.”

McKinney’s passion for western women’s history is also the focus of her own research and writing. She’s focused her attention on one individual in particular and is currently writing a book based on archival research, including a lengthy series of letters.

Although she had a lengthy career with the Extension Service, Cushman did not intend to go into the poultry business. In fact, when she went to college, she wanted to be a writer— she loved poetry and literature but showed more aptitude for the sciences.

After graduating in 1914 with degrees in chemistry and bacteriology from Cornell, Cushman was looking for a career—she had no interest in “just a job.”

“Everything she did, she went in one hundred percent and she became a very well-respected poultry specialist. Harriette was very much an intellectual and woman ahead of her time in a lot of respects. She really was someone who understood her place in the world—she was fearless.”

As the semester has progressed at NWC, McKinney quickly learned that her students are equally excited for the upcoming Dec. 10 anniversary.

“I have a really good group of students— they’ve already started talking about what collection [from the American Heritage Center] they want to look at. It’s really exciting to have our students at Northwest College be part of the 150th anniversary because it’s a big deal.”

While McKinney and her students have their individualized interests, the group is leaving no stone unturned when it comes to exploring the breadth and depth of the Wyoming woman. As they delve deep into each collection from the American Heritage Center together, students will uncover the lives of innovative problem solvers who were true pioneers in their fields— women who were farmers, ranchers, writers, postmistresses or teachers and allowed their restless curiosity and independence to propel them into a robust career.

As NWC’s Women of the West class begins planning the series of public presentations, stay tuned for additional details. All upcoming events are free and open the public.

“It’s fun to show the community what great students we have here,” McKinney said with a smile.

Visit us online at nwc.edu

PAGE PAGE3030

WOMENIN IN BUSINESS WOMEN BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2019 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10,10,2019

helping residents live happily

In back, from left: Janice Hicks, Tammy Kotar, Judy Bennett and Vicky Edwards In front, from left: Kolete Abraham, Cindy Ibarra and Tonya Bennett

rocky Mountain Manor

While R o c k y Mountain Manor staff members work to meet the needs of residents who live there, they often find their own lives are enriched as well.

“There is very rarely a dull moment with 60 residents — we have 60 different personalities,” said Vicky Edwards, who works as a weekend office assistant. “They are an absolute delight to work with.”

A non-profit senior housing facility, the Rocky Mountain Manor in Powell provides affordable housing, support services and programs for folks 55 and older.

While a variety of social and recreational activities are available, one favorite is tea time. Activities director Tonya Bennett asks residents to reminisce about different times in their lives as they share together in a group.

“I have learned so much about their lives and they have learned about mine,” she said.

Residents have given Bennett wonderful insight, she said.

“It truly is fulfilling and has given me the opportunity to think about what matters most in my life,” she said.

Judy Bennett, who serves as an evening office assistant, said the best part of her job is visiting with the residents. It’s a sentiment that’s common among staff members.

“I enjoy listening to their life stories,” said Janice Hicks, a weekend office assistant, who added that she also likes to serve noon meals on Saturdays.

The elderly are a wealth of information and a joy to be around, said Tammy Kotar, who works in housekeeping.

Kolete Abraham, the manor’s service coordinator, said she truly enjoys helping residents maintain their independence through empowerment, education, outreach, referrals and case management services.

“It is very fulfilling to help each resident find the resources

“The residents are wonderful and the staff is amazing!”

— Kolete Abraham, Service Coordinator

they need to live happily and comfortably in their apartment,” Abraham said. “The residents are wonderful and the staff is amazing!”

Cindy Ibarra serves as the manor’s director, and she “absolutely adores” the residents and staff, which includes seven women and one man. Every staff member plays a part in the facility’s success, she said.

“I couldn’t do all this without them,” Ibarra said.

Ibarra became the director about six years ago after working as a real estate broker for over 15 years. The manor’s board president Wes Metzler asked her to consider the director position.

“I knew the position would be a challenge but an easy transition with the education and experience I already had,” she said. “I am glad I made the choice because I absolutely love working with the elderly.”

She hears about their families, past loves, life experiences, pain and illnesses and the hardships they have endured.

“They are wonderful and a wealth of knowledge with many reminders of how grateful we all need to be for the time we have left before us,” Ibarra said. “No matter how difficult the day is, I leave work feeling grateful and hopefully making a small difference in someone’s life.”

The most difficult part of the job is having to say goodbye to a resident.

“No matter how strong I think I am, it is absolutely heart-

breaking to lose someone. They each have a piece of my heart,” she said.

Sadly, residents and staff recently had to say goodbye to Marlene Gallagher, who served on the Rocky Mountain Manor Board for over 25 years. Gallagher passed away in August.

“She was an amazing lady with the kindest heart of any woman I have ever known,” Ibarra said. “She was full of knowledge.”

A very active board member, Gallagher “always made herself available for helping out any way needed.”

The Rocky Mountain Manor board includes four female members: Anita LaFleiche, Becky Duran, Cathy Campbell and Vicki Olson.

Established in 1966, the manor seeks to provide a comfortable and safe living environment for all residents. Currently, 59 people live at the manor.

“Our goal is to maintain and foster positive self-esteem and self-sufficiency for all our residents,” Ibarra said. “In order to accomplish this goal, we treat each resident equally with dignity, respect and compassion.”

The manor board and staff appreciate all the continued support from the community.

“We would not be as successful as we are without the volunteers, donations and kindness from our community,” Ibarra said.

140 NORTH CHEYENNE • POWELL • 754-4535

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

PAGE 31

Powell library staff pictured include (center front) Renée Hanlin; clockwise from Renée: Brianne Schaefer, Jo Norlin, Maggie Sullivan, Rosie Gillett, Diane Desfosses and Jane Foley.

A love of books and people Powell Branch Library belongs to everyone

The love of books and people brought each of us to the Powell Branch Library throughout the years.

Libraries were a solace to each of us at one time or another in our lives. Each of us brings with us our own separate short story, but together we are a raucous, beautiful, and moving novel.

We are a strong team and have laughed and cried together. Living and working in Powell is a challenge and an honor. We proudly serve the patrons of Powell, and hopefully we gain as much from them as they gain from their library every time they visit.

Working among all the voices that fill the written pages, audiobooks, and movies brings us great joy, but it is really the people of Powell who bring us to work every day.

Our profession brings with it the desire to help every patron with their questions, or fulfill their want of further education and entertainment. We want each patron to feel that his or her experience at the library was fulfilling. Each person is so very important to us. Each story time for children, each movie watched, each book read, each program attended demonstrates back to us our importance in a patron’s life.

Every time someone opens the door to the library they are opening the door to a future self.

Whether they are here to use a computer, gather with friends after school, or listen to a local author speak. Every moment in the library brings social and personal growth.

The library belongs to everyone. We open the doors every morning and we close them at night, but we are not the heart of this place, the people

Faith Johnson

By Maggie Sullivan, Renée Hanlin, Jo Norlin and Faith Johnson

of Park County are. They are the ones we choose books and movies for; they are the ones who motivate us to be the best at our jobs we can be; and they are the ones who fill each day with new knowledge of the human condition. This is their library.

We are a group of women who are mothers, sisters, aunts, wives, daughters and librarians. We come from different socio-economic backgrounds and different states. We were born in different decades. We were raised in different religions and have varied political views. We are the faces of the library. Each of us holds a little bit of mystery, Western life, romance, child-like curiosity, and teen angst in us. We are respectful and kind to one another. We are grateful for our lives and our town.

We are happy to be your librarians. When you walk through the doors of the library we want you to feel welcome and cared about, because you are.

217 East 3rd Street, Powell, Wyoming

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WOMENIN IN BUSINESS BUSINESS WOMEN

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2019 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10,10,2019

Changing mid-dream Laughlin moves from server to co-owner at WYOld West Far from Jessica Laughlin’s white picketfence dreams — what she hoped her life would be — she’s found her reality to be much better than she could have ever imagined: She has a piece of the pie.

Laughlin has gone from a part-time server and full-time student to a coowner of WYOld West Brewing Company. But not that long ago, Laughlin was working as an engineer in the oil fields.

The work was challenging and the pay was great, but while in North Dakota, Wyoming was calling her home.

“I owned my house in Powell for seven years and had only lived in it for two,” she said. “It was time to come home.”

Laughlin returned to Northwest College to finish her drafting degree. At the same time she took a part-time job as a server at WYOld West, working weekday shifts during lunch rushes.

Soon she was offered a position managing the “front of the house.” Initially the answer was no.

“I really didn’t want that,” Laughlin said.

“I wanted to finish my degree.”

Leaving engineering behind was a hard decision — it meant abandoning her dream, at least temporarily. But she found herself feeling comfortable at WYOld West and the restaurant’s investors were persuasive, talking her into trying it out to see if the position was a good fit. She agreed and ended up loving it.

The job didn’t last long. A little more than a year later, the co-owners once again came knocking. They offered Laughlin an opportunity as general manager. This time she didn’t hesitate in accepting the offer; she felt like she was with family. At the same time WYOld West was expanding, deciding to open a tap room in Cody. Laughlin was the project

Hours: Mon – Sat: 11am – 10:30pm & Sundays: 11am – 7pm

Follow your passion. “ You know in your gut what’s going to make you happy.”

Jessica Laughlin

manager and was able to use her engineering and drafting skills to draft the blueprints for the project.

Business has grown. The brewery now distributes its tasty brews to 15 counties in Wyoming. Laughlin traveled across the state to meet with various distributors to sign the contracts in each county as she built the distributing part of the business from the ground up.

And WYOld West hopes to be canning their product within the next year, establishing themselves across the region. Their plan is to “deliver a taste of Powell to the whole state.”

The investors once again approached Laughlin — this time asking her to join them.

With a piece of the action now in hand, she knows she has found her place in the community. Her dreams may be different than once imagined, but better, she said.

Under Laughlin’s management, WYOld West is now brewing in both Powell and Cody.

The Bent Street facility has the wholesaler’s

license and makes the bulk of the beer for the restaurant and distribution. Cody has been set up as a self-contained micro brewing business with a small batch system.

They’re beginning to test new recipes in Cody, but if they turn out to be a big hit “then we’ll bring [the beer recipe] here and do large batches,” Laughlin said.

The first four experimental kegs from the two barrel system should be tapped in the next week or two. At that point, true craft beer aficionados in Powell will have to make a trip to Cody to taste everything they make.

“We have a really good brewing team and we’ve been listening to customers about what they want,” Laughlin said. “Our brewer has been here for a while and we have a few assistant brewers, too. They all have ideas swirling that will help us branch out from our staples.”

Laughlin hopes WYOld West will soon offer new and exciting tastes, both from the

brewery and the kitchen. Added to wellthought-out lunch and dinner specials, the kitchen will be putting out a revised menu for winter. “We want to make sure to offer variety to bring the customers in continually,” she said.

WYOld West now has about 60 employees as they continue to grow. And they have an increasing presence in the community. While Laughlin has had to spend more time in the office — meaning less interaction with customers — she continues to work with community members on fundraising and other projects.

She comes to work every day looking forward to the day’s work, never second-guessing her decision to change her path to success.

“Follow your passion. You know in your gut what’s going to make you happy,” Laughlin said. “This was not what I was going to do, this is not what I had planned for my life, but I’ve found this is truly what I love to do.”

221 North Bent Street in Downtown Powell • 307.764.6200