Jackson business owners, staff try to catch their breath after record-busy year
Pinky G’s Pizzeria has toppled its sales records every month to date in 2021, and General Manager Mark Sexton doesn’t see any reason to think November and December will turn out any differently.... more
Derogatory word will go
Following the Department of Interior’s announcement declaring “squaw” a derogatory term and creating a task force to remove the word from federal place names, Wyoming will likely see some long-standing names changing soon. ... more
Campbell County library board listens to, rejects three more book appeals
Two children’s picture books and a collection of essays on losing one’s virginity were the latest challenged books to make it all the way to the Campbell County Public Library Board.... more
Wyoming tech companies take on Facebook smart glasses
Three Wyoming-based companies are taking on the Facebook metaverse with the development of their own innovative smart glasses. ... more
‘Festival of Lights’ illuminates Cam-plex for 16 years
It was beginning to feel a lot like Christmas on Nov. 16. The cold of winter had moved into Gillette and was settling down as parks maintenance technicians Audrey Mertz and Mike Cote were working at Cam-plex Park.... more
Volunteers help to rebuild a culture of community service
For more than a quarter century, Bruce Fauskee has been heading out into the wilderness on a mission.... more
Black 14, Mormon Church team up
After decades of pain, there was an apology. And some closure. ... more
Riddell faces criticism, family life as public health officer
Dr. Travis Riddell had quietly served Teton County as an appointed health officer since 2012 before the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic thrust public health into the spotlight, elevating his role to celebrity status and forcing additional hours, conversations and controversy into his already hectic life. Fortunately, the service aligns with his passions.... more
Delta variant as deadly to Wyoming as initial surge; Teton County health officials credit masks, vaccines for keeping death rate lower during delta wave
Call it a saddle or a roller coaster, COVID-19 death data in Wyoming paint a startling picture: Despite the widespread availability of vaccines, the Cowboy State lost as many residents to coronavirus this fall as it did during last winter’s deadly surge.... more
Former Crook County treasurer changes plea
Mary Kuhl has changed her plea to “no contest” against a felony charge related to her conduct in office as county treasurer, from which she resigned in October. ... more
With workforce shortages top of mind, businesses try new recruitment tactics
A barbershop, a gym, a basketball court, an auditorium, no offices and a lot of collaborative work spaces. While the building may sound like something located in Silicon Valley, it’s in Sheridan in an old Kmart that now looks nothing like the former retail space.... more
Students solve crime in name of science
When a group of elementary school kids showed up at the Gillette College Pronghorn Center on Thursday afternoon, they thought they were going to be doing a bunch of enrichment activities relating to astronomy.... more
Detainment suit will proceed
Qualified immunity can be granted to officers in a wrongful detainment lawsuit stemming from a 2017 incident outside Yellowstone National Park, a federal judge decided, but only in the case of one of the suit’s two adult plaintiffs. ... more
Climate, population drops, prompt BLM to revise sage grouse plans
Citing population declines, climate change, habitat loss and other factors, the Bureau of Land Management will revise Western conservation plans for greater sage grouse, including in Wyoming where about 38 percent of the birds live on a landscape heavily used by the state’s industries.... more
Stakeholders ID new cliff for controversial via ferrata project
Lander-area recreation stakeholders have identified a new site for a controversial cable-and-rung via ferrata project originally proposed on a cliff where peregrine falcons sometimes nest.... more
Uranium sale expected to boost Wyoming production
In a move that may mean a huge upswing in uranium mining in Converse County and Wyoming, Uranium Energy Corporation (UEC) has entered into an agreement with Russia’s Uranium One Investments Inc., a subsidiary of Uranium One, to acquire all issued and outstanding shares of Uranium One Americas, Inc. (U1A) for a total purchase price of $112 million in cash and the replacement of $19 million in reclamation bonding.... more
Industry criticizes plan to tap oil reserves
The federal government will pull oil from the country’s emergency stockpile in an effort to bring down stubbornly high fuel prices, the White House said Tuesday.... more
End in sight for state’s most expensive road project
After years of construction, which followed nearly two decades of environmental planning and design, the end of the U.S. Highway 89 construction project south of Jackson is in sight.... more
Clark fire leaves lives upended
“That’s 25 years of my life just sucked away in a flame and a wind,” Becky Flowers said.... more
Riverton approves $80K for company if it maintains 25 local employees
An outdoor sports equipment company planning to move to Riverton must maintain at least 25 full-time employees in order to keep the economic development money it’s getting from the City of Riverton.... more
COVID-19 special session bill called into question
State lawmakers are beginning to question the interpretation of the special session bill recently signed into law by Gov. Mark Gordon after the suspension of the federal vaccine mandate.... more
Evaluation ordered for teen charged in father’s death
Due to concerns about the defendant’s competency, however, Fenn ordered a competency evaluation be conducted prior to any additional proceedings in the case, including the filing of any pleas.... more
Gillette College district starts receiving money
Trustees for the newly formed Gillette Community College District had and still have a long list of things to do before it achieves true independence.... more
Trustees approve UW reorganization, no layoffs
A major restructuring of academic programs at the University of Wyoming earned approval from the school’s board of trustees this week, but without layoffs and the deep budget cuts that were originally anticipated.... more
Cheyenne resident wins NPR’s ‘Sunday Puzzle’
Twenty-five years of listening to NPR’s “Sunday Puzzle” prepared Marion Yoder for the phone call of a lifetime. ... more
Powell family shares a love of classic cars
The Cole family has a love of classic cars, pickups and motorcycles that now spans a generation.... more
Teton commissioners stay the course on mask mandate
Activists opposed to the county’s mask mandate are continuing to wage a campaign of public comment and protest, aimed at having county commissioners lift the face covering requirement in Jackson Hole.... more
Feds to reconsider two elk feedgrounds following CWD discoveries
Following recent discoveries of Chronic Wasting Disease in feedground-supported elk herds, the U.S. Forest Service will conduct a detailed environmental review that could decide the fate of two Wyoming winter feeding operations.... more
Group asks for Jackson building moratorium
Eyes throughout the town of Jackson and beyond were focused on the Jackson Town Council on Monday as councilors heard from the public and discussed the idea of an emergency moratorium on building permits, as well as other options to solve the town’s housing crisis.... more
New path proposed for Sinks Canyon ‘via ferrata’
A much-debated man-made climbing route soon might be installed in Sinks Canyon State Park, but on a different cliff with no peregrine falcons.... more
Prosecutor’s office barred from manslaughter proceeding
After being barred from a recent hearing involving a man awaiting sentencing for manslaughter and other charges, the Laramie County district attorney has asked a district court judge to reconsider her actions.... more
Cody hospital vaccine mandate policy on hold
The West Park Hospital District board is taking a week to address some of the concerns raised by a series of impassioned speakers and board members before voting to approve a mandatory vaccine policy.... more
Campbell County Commissioners vote against using CARES dollars for vaccination campaign
Campbell County Commissioners voted against using federal dollars for an educational campaign about the COVID-19 vaccine, with one commissioner worried that the campaign would be veering into the territory of vaccine mandates.... more
Woman killed, multiple buildings lost in Clark nighttime blaze
A fire erupted on Monday night in Clark, claiming the life of one resident — along with two homes — as it rapidly burned across 300 acres near Line Creek. ... more
Power plant at risk of premature retirement
Unit 2 of the Jim Bridger Power Plant is six weeks from violating federal air quality regulations, putting the plant at risk of premature retirement, Gov. Mark Gordon revealed Monday.... more
Ski closures recommended in saga to protect Teton bighorns
The decline of a rare, isolated bighorn sheep herd, high on the scoured granite slopes of the Teton Range has long been a flashpoint in the perpetual balancing act between western wildlife and outdoor recreation.... more
Water agency seeks $281 million for dams, domestic supply, other projects
In what could be one of the biggest requests to the Legislature in years, state water development officials are eyeing $281 million or more to fund agricultural irrigation works, dams, reservoirs, domestic water projects and other programs.... more
Ratepayer liability for coal carbon capture limited to 2%
Public utilities that add carbon capture technology to coal-fired power plants in Wyoming may increase rates by a maximum 2 percent to cover the cost, according to rule revisions the Wyoming Public Service Commission adopted Friday.... more
Wyoming GOP votes to rebuke lawmakers
Wyoming Republican Party leaders on Saturday decided not to rebuke a Park County official who wrote an obscene email to state Sen. Tara Nethercott.... more
Chronic wasting disease makes more inroads into elk feeding region
Chronic wasting disease has been detected in elk that dwell along the southwestern flank of the Wind River Range in an area where 80 percent or so of the animals congregate each winter on densely-packed feedgrounds.... more
TerraPower chooses Kemmerer for nuclear reactor
TerraPower, Bill Gates’ nuclear power company, announced Tuesday that it has chosen Kemmerer as its preferred site for a planned nuclear reactor.... more
Prosecutors to seek life sentence in 2020 crime spree
Park County prosecutors say they will seek a life sentence for a man accused of being at the center of a 2020 crime spree. ... more
Barrasso says caution needed in Medicaid expansion debate
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso thinks Wyoming should decide against expanding Medicaid.... more
Wyoming GOP votes to withdraw Cheney recognition
Wyoming Republican leaders voted this weekend to no longer recognize Rep. Liz Cheney as a member of their party.... more
Gordon unveils proposed $2.3 billion budget
Gov. Mark Gordon proposed a balanced general fund budget of nearly $2.3 billion for the 2023-24 biennium Monday that will be considered by the Wyoming Legislature during the 2022 budget session.... more
Fossil fuels boost revenue outlook, but add more budget volatility
Wyoming’s revenue outlook has improved by $845 million on rebounding markets for coal, oil and natural gas just as lawmakers prepare for the upcoming budget session in February. But there’s a dose of bad news in the state’s revenue analysis.... more
School board told of more teen violence amid pandemic
There has been an “extreme increase” in violence among Fremont County youth as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Riverton school board heard last month.... more
Religious exemption may be only out for some unvaccinated Campbell County Health employees
The Campbell County Health COVID-19 vaccine policy implemented this week will pose the decision to the organization’s 1,100 or so employees to either get vaccinated, file for a religious or medical exemption or lose their jobs.... more
How Congress’ massive infrastructure bill will impact Wyoming and its residents
Congress recently passed a $1.2 trillion infrastructure package, and experts say the measure could help remedy longstanding issues in Wyoming.... more
Wyoming sees highest inflation increase since early 2000s
The Wyoming Economic Analysis Division recently reported that through the second quarter of this year, the state experienced the highest rise in the average annual inflation rate on all items since the 2008 recession.... more
Grizzly 399 and family pass through Jackson
When Cache Creek Drive resident Ann Smith got word after dark Tuesday night that Grizzly 399 and her string of cubs were traveling down the streets of Jackson, she immediately went to see for herself.... more
UW delays bulk of reorganization until 2023
After pushback from stakeholders on and off campus, the University of Wyoming’s administrators have opted to delay for more than a year much of their plan to reorganize the university.... more
Short-term Wyoming coal outlook good, says mine official
The question of what the future of coal in Campbell County will entail long-term, remains unanswered. But in the near future, Powder River Basin coal is projecting to do well.... more
Committee approves bill to collect juvenile crime data
The Wyoming Legislature’s Joint Judiciary Interim Committee on Thursday voted to sponsor a draft bill lawmakers hope will compel the state to finally collect juvenile justice data.... more
Grizzly deaths approach record, high population cited
Grizzly bears are dying at a record pace in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, but wildlife officials say that’s a sign of a population that has reached its carrying capacity.... more
Volunteer hunters reduce Grand Teton exotic goat herd
Ninety miles hiked, five mountain goats seen, four nonnative goats killed, meat from two billy goats recovered.... more
Blockchain community to be established near Clark
A 40-acre parcel west of Clark will be the new home to a blockchain community.... more
Public notice petition dismissed
A judge Wednesday dismissed a petition to overturn a pair of ordinances exempting Mills and Bar Nunn from state statutes requiring public notices to be published in a newspaper. ... more
ACLU demands Wyoming, Teton County halt forced sobriety program
The ACLU of Wyoming is threatening to sue the state for its use of the 24/7 Sobriety Program on people who have been arrested but not convicted.... more
Johnson County officials fear school, hospital staffs will quit due to vax mandate
Johnson County Healthcare Center is preparing for an impending COVID-19 vaccination mandate for its employees after the Biden administration announced its rules for health care facilities and large companies.... more
Laramie County DA responds to second State Bar charge
In her response to the Wyoming State Bar’s second formal charge against her, Laramie County District Attorney Leigh Anne Manlove denied allegations that she made false claims or excuses about her office’s inability to access evidence.... more
A retired UW professor’s epic quest to find a boulder
On Aug. 13, 1842, Charles Preuss — the cartographer on John Fremont’s mapping expedition of the Oregon Trail from the Missouri River to the Continental Divide — set up his materials deep in the Rocky Mountains and sketched the scene before him. ... more
BLM pulls 264 parcels from oil and gas lease sale over grouse concerns
Wyoming will see a federal oil and gas lease sale in early 2022 due to a federal court ruling that ended the Biden administration’s 2021 moratorium. But the size of the lease sale will be much smaller than industry, and state leaders, hoped for.... more
Power station workers protest vaccine mandate
Somewhere around 85 protesters peacefully gathered at Basin Electric Laramie River Station near gate No. 1 last Friday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., where they called out to cars driving by and held up the multiple signs that were created voicing their displeasure.... more
Sheridan school officials oppose bill removing local control
Sheridan County School District 2 administrators strongly oppose proposed legislation that would move monitoring kindergarten through third-grade curriculum from local control to a statewide level, and those administrators expressed such opposition with local legislators Monday.... more
Special session costs exceed $233K
The daily rate of the recently completed special legislative session cost taxpayers about $8,000 more than originally projected, the Legislative Service Office told the Star-Tribune this week.... more
Tracking grizzly 399 now easier
The way Hilary Cooley sees it, Grizzly 399 and her four cubs are now better positioned to stay alive and out of trouble until they den up for the winter.... more
Wyoming School Boards Association keeps distance from national letter to president
The Wyoming School Boards Association is upset about a recent letter sent from its national organization to U.S. President Joe Biden, Riverton school board chairman Carl Manning said.... more
Lummis, Western senators renew push for state management of grizzlies
A group of Republican senators from Wyoming, Idaho and Montana are calling on Democratic leaders to take “immediate” action on a bill that would return management of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem’s grizzly bears to state governments. ... more
Campbell County hospital staff takes brunt of relentless inpatient wave
The most obvious and norm-altering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic may already have passed for many people in Campbell County. Looking around the community, life may seem ordinary once again.... more
Patient surge hits Cheyenne hospital
An increase in people seeking care for a variety of illnesses strained Cheyenne Regional Medical Center staff last week.... more
Into thin air: The twists and turns of a 20-year disappearance
Some young cops believe they can solve every case.... more
Gaming reg fix weighed during special session, but vote failed
An attempt to tighten Wyoming’s loosened gambling regulations during the special legislative session failed last week when the House opted not to introduce a corrective bill. ... more
Biggest U.S. coal plant will halve production
The biggest coal-fired power plant in the country gets all of its coal from Wyoming. A second of its four units is now slated for retirement, halving total capacity before the end of the decade. ... more
Divided commissioners support ‘via ferrata’ plan for Sinks Canyon
On a split vote, the Fremont County Commission has endorsed a letter of support for further Sinks Canyon via ferrata planning. ... more
Student arrested for mask violation sues state, schools
A Laramie High School student who was arrested for trespassing after refusing to comply with the school’s mask mandate is suing the governor, public health officials and six local school districts in an effort to overturn executive and public health orders related to COVID-19.... more
Special session bill supports mandate legal challenge
The only bill to come out of the Wyoming Legislature’s weeklong special session will not be as far-reaching as some expected, but it will define the state’s legal battle against the federal vaccine mandate, if enacted as law.... more
Jackson's Biggest Rockstar t-shirt will benefit Global Down Syndrome Foundation
Kickstart my heart, why don’t you?... more
To Henry, it’s more than horsing around
Nestled near a now-dry fork of the Cheyenne River some 40 miles and northwest of Douglas sits 88 Ranch, a 100,000-acre mix of private and leased public lands. The ranch spans the foothills of the Bighorns and the high scrub desert of the Wyoming plains. ... more
One bill emerges from special session
One bill dedicated to fighting the federal COVID-19 vaccine mandate emerged Wednesday evening as the Wyoming Legislature ended a seven-day special session. ... more
Campbell County commissioners' meeting had extra security; board accused of violating open meetings law
Six officers were assigned to the commission chambers Tuesday for the Campbell County Commission's regular meeting after the county sheriff had been asked to provide extra security.... more
Feds seek tighter methane rules
After an Obama-era methane rule was repealed by the Trump administration, reinstated in court and then struck down for good last October, the federal government is once again tightening methane regulations. ... more
Gillette, Campbell County plan for post-coal economy
Gillette and Campbell County appear to be bursting with economic activity despite a series of coal company bankruptcies, mine layoffs and a forecast for more of the same. ... more
Wyoming climate data holds ominous clues about life, economy
Extreme temperatures broke records in June, setting the stage for an unusually hot, dry and smoky summer. Conditions were severe enough to inspire many Wyoming residents to take stock of what appear to be changing climate patterns in the state. ... more
Wyoming residents observe a changing climate and quality of life
We talk a lot about the weather in Wyoming because, like it does in any place occupied by humans, it unites us. Talking about a changing climate in Wyoming, however, can be more difficult. ... more
Torrington school board lifts mask mandate
The Goshen County School District Board voted to rescind the mask mandate in the district on Oct. 28. ... more
Judge orders release of Glenrock police chief report
State District Court Judge Thomas Rumpke ruled Friday partially in favor of the Glenrock Independent Publisher Matt Adelman’s lawsuit against the Town of Glenrock to release the majority of the Stedellie Report. ... more
Senator’s Facebook post to ‘fix bayonets’ criticized
A Facebook post made Friday by a Campbell County legislator calls into question where the line is between figurative and literal language amid a politically polarized national and state climate.... more
Legislator drops plans for censure of colleague
A Gillette lawmaker no longer plans to seek the censure of Rep. Steve Harshman, who was caught on camera last week cursing a colleague. ... more
Bar brings new charge against Laramie Co. DA
The Wyoming State Bar in mid-October filed a second formal charge against Laramie County District Attorney Leigh Anne Manlove, claiming that false statements and excuses about her office not being able to access crime lab results have impeded the administration of justice in the county.... more
Proposed bill would stabilize pension plan
The Wyoming Legislature’s Appropriations Committee reached a milestone in a months-long conversation last week as it approved a bill draft addressing the state’s quickly depleting Fire A pension plan.... more
Kanye era comes to end in Cody
The Kanye West experience is coming to an end in Cody. Whether it was good or bad for the town, most Cody residents can likely agree it was a memorable presence.... more
Pot petition signatures ‘on track’ for February deadline
Petitions are circulating throughout the Cowboy State in support of two ballot initiatives proposing reshaped marijuana legislation in Wyoming. Just over a month into the signature-gathering process, the initiatives are “on track” to potentially make it on the November 2022 ballot.... more
Anti-vaccine mandate bills get first Senate OK
As the Wyoming Legislature’s special session resumed Monday, lawmakers focused on revising the two remaining bills designed to push back on vaccine mandates. But regardless of where they sat on the issue, many lawmakers seemed frustrated with the legislative product.... more
Business council funding for tribes still confounds lawmakers
State lawmakers continued to express confusion this month about tribal eligibility for economic development programs in Wyoming.... more
Campbell County GOP executive committee calls out state GOP for 'misogynistic actions'
The executive committee of the Campbell County Republican Party Central Committee is concerned that the Wyoming GOP is intentionally trying to keep women out of politics.... more
Crypto mining pioneer moves headquarters to Cheyenne
In a state well known for its mining industry, one West Coast startup is ushering in a whole new wave of miners as Wyoming continues to lead the nation in digital asset technologies.... more
Wyoming revenue estimate continues to improve
Buoyed by unexpectedly high oil and gas prices, revenue collected by Wyoming during the 2021 fiscal year far outstripped earlier estimates. ... more
Study: CWD will hurt feedground numbers, hunting
New research predicts that both elk numbers and hunting opportunity will decline in northwest Wyoming as a result of Chronic Wasting Disease infection in elk that winter mostly on the National Elk Refuge near Jackson.... more
Story House Inc. promising 435 film industry jobs in Sheridan
A new business aims to bring the film industry to Sheridan.... more
No criminal charges to be filed against Campbell County library staff
The Weston County Attorney’s Office will not pursue charges against members of the Campbell County Public Library after reviewing the relevant case law and the books alleged to violate the law.... more
Vaccine mandate bills continue their advance in Wyo. Legislature's special session
Three major bills fighting back against the Biden administration’s vaccine mandate advanced to third reading Thursday, a final step before they can move to the opposite chamber. ... more
Axe throwing league brings unique sport to town
In small, circular motions, the man polished his blade razor-sharp with a small whetstone before pulling the remainder of his arsenal from a hard plastic carrying case.... more
A Jackson Hole survey for winter ticks
Troy Koser was inspecting the remnants of a “tick ball” that clung to a blade of grass.... more
Artist changes the Frannie landscape with new art installations
An area artist going by the pseudonym Greg Wymoing — no, that’s not a typo — wants you to think. And smile.... more
Faculty urges UW to slow reorganization plans
The University of Wyoming’s Faculty Senate voted Monday to ask UW’s administrators to postpone a proposed reorganization that would move several programs from the College of Arts and Sciences to other colleges on campus.... more
School districts examine end of ‘snow days’
The days of Johnson County students building snowmen with their friends or drinking hot chocolate on the couch during a snow day may soon be coming to an end.... more
Campbell library board votes to keep contested book in teen section
The Campbell County Public Library Board voted Monday to keep “This Book Is Gay” in the teen section.... more
COVID vaccine compromise measure gains support in House
A bill forcing both sides of the vaccine mandate issue to make compromises is gaining momentum in Wyoming’s House of Representatives.... more
Senate agrees to review one COVID bill
Day 2 of the Legislature's special session was a short one for members of the Wyoming Senate, who passed two bills Wednesday morning before adjourning.... more
Gordon responds to drought conditions
Gov. Mark Gordon is convening a Colorado River Working Group that will meet regularly to discuss important Colorado River matters and monitor potential impacts to Wyoming, according to a news release from his office Friday.... more
Changes in Hathaway Scholarship open for comment
The state-sponsored Hathaway Scholarship for college-bound high school students received another update this legislative session, but the public will get to weigh in on how the new rules are written.... more
How national parks use social media to track down miscreants
Sandwiched between staff promotion and visitation tips, Yellowstone National Park’s Instagram page has a screenshot from a video taken by park visitor Darcie Addington.... more
Sheridan’s Little Free Libraries: Service about more than sharing books
Little Free Libraries are popping up all around Sheridan and here, just like around the world, the phenomenon is about more than sharing books.... more
Riverton woman key voice for missing and murdered Indigenous persons
At all hours of the day, Nicole Wagon gets calls, texts, emails and Facebook messages.... more
Spare a pair? Couple paying for adoption with shoes
Mikelle Schmit stared at the pile of transparent plastic bags that has only grown taller and wider since May. She inhaled the humid garage air and exhaled relief that she still has more than a month to meet her goal.... more
Grand Teton experiments with ‘augmented reality’
Moose don’t predictably appear in the height of summer along the most bustling trails in all of Grand Teton National Park.... more
Wyoming near bottom in ranking of child health
Although Wyoming ranks fourth in the nation for economic well-being, the state ranks 17th in the nation for child well-being and overall health. The two, Wyoming Community Foundation Chief Operating Officer Samin Dadelahi believes the health of children should rank more closely to economic well-being.... more
Wyoming coal production falls by 21% in 2020
Coal production in Wyoming plummeted 21 percent in 2020 as the U.S. saw its lowest yield since 1965, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported Wednesday.... more
Magician, others react to threats, canceled show in Campbell County libraries
Magician and comedienne Mikayla Oz and library staff were threatened and harassed to the point where the performances were called off as a safety concern.... more
Hydrogen project finalists chosen
Three proposed hydrogen pilot projects have been chosen as finalists for grant funding by the Wyoming Energy Authority, pending approval from the state Energy Resources Council.... more
Groups impress value of vaccinating employees
As COVID-19 case numbers rise in Laramie County and across the state, bolstered by a variant that made up more than half of cases last week, the Cheyenne-Laramie County Health Department is offering to send staff to local businesses to vaccinate employees.... more
Healthcare center struggles to hire primary care physicians
Health care facilities nationwide are experiencing a shortage of primary care physicians, and Johnson County Healthcare Center is no exception.... more
Lack of standards invites politics into Wyo civics classes, critics say
One afternoon this spring, educators around Wyoming logged onto Zoom for a voluntary lesson on 20th Century U.S. history featuring a “live presentation from an esteemed scholar expert.”... more
Fewer ‘recapture’ districts spell trouble for school funding
For the first time in decades, Campbell County will not send excess revenue to the state’s School Foundation Program, the primary statewide school fund. ... more
Commissioners reject coroner nominees, candidate says vetting process ‘disgrace’
After receiving a list of three candidates for the Fremont County Coroner mid-term replacement, the Fremont County Commission chose Tuesday not to select a new coroner from the nominees submitted. ... more
Albany commissioners approve wind project
The Albany County Board of Commissioners voted 3-0 Tuesday night to approve ConnectGen’s application for a wind energy conversion systems permit for the Rail Tie Wind Project.... more
UW proposes 75 layoffs, program changes
The University of Wyoming on Tuesday proposed sweeping changes at the institution, including budget cuts that would lay off 75 positions — some tenured, a reorganization of a slew of academic departments, and the formation of a school of computing — among other additions.... more
Judge orders author to ‘write’ wrong after Yellowstone misbehavior
You might call it making the punishment fit the crime. A federal judge has sentenced a former Yellowstone National Park safari guide, blogger and author to put his respect for national parks in writing.... more
Yellowstone National Park attendance increases over holiday
Fewer people entered Yellowstone National Park through the East Gate over the Independence Day holiday, but local leaders say it continues to be a strong year for tourism in Park County.... more
Gore slams spying allegations
Susan Gore, a wealthy conservative donor and founder of the Wyoming Liberty Group, broke her silence Monday regarding accusations she funded a political spying operation, stating the allegations amounted to “disinformation.”... more
Take Back Our Republic launches new Wyoming chapter
Changing the political system isn’t easy, but if anyone can try, it’s people who know the system from the inside out.... more
Jackson Lake poised for steep drawdown
When longtime Signal Mountain Marina manager Bill Wood returned to his administrative cabin overlooking Jackson Lake after taking last weekend off, he could immediately tell the water had changed noticeably in just 48 hours.... more
Biden administration slated to pick new Wyoming judge
Nancy Freudenthal, U.S. District Judge for the District of Wyoming, announced in June she will be assuming senior status, a phase of semi-retirement that will likely bring the judge to the final chapter of a lengthy and distinguished career in Wyoming.... more
First-of-its-kind approach to coal reclamation bonding in the works
Wyoming lawmakers are considering a new option for coal mine reclamation bonding that could reduce risk for the state in the event of insolvency. Both environmental and industry advocates have identified advantages to the proposal, which could also help the financially troubled industry. ... more
Campbell library under fire for ‘Rainbow Book Month’ posting
The Campbell County Public Library is under fire after a post on the library’s Facebook page promoting its LGBTQ collection, and among the suggestions of dealing with it is censoring books.... more
Former coroner alleges Health Department changed death certificates
Former Fremont County Coroner Mark Stratmoen has alleged that the Wyoming Department of Health has changed and issued inaccurate death certificates in the last several months.... more
CLIMB celebrates 35 years of helping single moms
Over the last 35 years, thousands of single moms gained skills to improve their own lives and the lives of their children with the help of Climb Wyoming.... more
Cheyenne youth wins national poetry championship
Jayden Roccaforte has been asked too many times in his life “What are you?” to actually keep count. ... more
Fisheries experts urge caution as temperatures rise
The Encampment River in southeast Wyoming usually runs about 900 cubic feet per second at the end of June. This year it was at 125 cfs and dropping.... more
Woman plans surprise wedding for fiance
For four months, Clarice Grekoff kept an important secret from her fiancé.... more
Idaho officials ask Teton County to pay for impact study
Elected officials trying to guard against runaway growth in Teton Valley would like to see their Jackson Hole counterparts pay more attention to the effects of proposals to expand terrain and build out the base area at Grand Targhee Resort.... more
Rancher found after being pinned under ATV for nearly two days
Frank Reynolds considers himself fortunate because not all search and rescue efforts have happy endings.... more
Former college CFO accused in $15 million fraud
A lawsuit filed in federal court in late June alleges that Paul McCown, the former chief financial officer at Wyoming Catholic College, defrauded an investment firm out of $15 million. ... more
New task force dives into hunting controversies
Wyoming legislators, government leaders and citizens from across the state were picked for the panel among many applicants, being chosen jointly by the governor and legislative and Game and Fish leaders. ... more
Hay prices causing issues for stockgrowers
Consistently worsening drought and skyrocketing hay prices in Wyoming are causing issues for livestock owners’ pocketbooks and their ability to sustain full herds.... more
COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations up in Laramie County
COVID19 case numbers in Laramie County are troubling, as they mirror the spread seen last October ahead of the worst peak in November and December, according to Cheyenne-Laramie County Health Department Director Kathy Emmons.... more
Taxable sales fall in first quarter
Despite skyrocketing fuel demand driving oil and gas prices to highs not seen since 2014, Wyoming’s energy sector continues to chart a slow recovery from its pandemic lows.... more
Grizzly conflicts central to new Upper Green River grazing debate
Bridger-Teton National Forest is weighing 3,256 comment letters, many of which oppose a plan to allow cattle to graze new areas in grizzly country near the Upper Green River.... more
Psychedelics dealer shelters in Burning Man-style tent, awaits Wyoming Supreme Court appeal
On a grassy field south of Victor, semifamous LSD chemist Casey Hardison is camped out under a makeshift birch tree tent with his partner, Victoria Clemente.... more
Effort on at all levels to transform Powder River Basin into nation's Carbon Valley
Going carb-free may be the diet du jour for people looking to drop a few pounds, but when it comes to re-imagining the Powder River Basin’s coal-dependent economy, many believe in carbon-loading.... more
Officials: Pandemic isn’t over
Wyoming has all the tools it needs to put the pandemic in the rearview mirror, health officials say. But residents here aren’t taking advantage of those resources.... more
Campaign data illustrates Gore’s growing influence in Wyo politics
When Susan Gore arrived in Wyoming more than two decades ago, the heir to the Gore-Tex fortune was a minor player in the state’s politics.... more
Residents of Glenrock hope it’s chosen as nuclear reactor site
Some communities would balk at the idea of a company building an experimental power source on the edge of town. Glenrock is not one of them.... more
Mussel-infected boat intercepted in Yellowstone
For Sue Mills, it was simultaneously concerning and reassuring for her staff to find a quagga mussel attached to a boat that was about to hit the water in Yellowstone National Park.... more
Visits swell at national parks; tourism increases as pandemic subsides
If you visited one of Wyoming’s national parks recently, you’re hardly alone.... more
Lawsuit with Clark teen centers continues
A class-action lawsuit filed by about 25 class action members and four listed plaintiffs against Clark troubled teen centers Trinity Teen Solutions and Triangle Cross Ranch has received pushback from these entities in federal court.... more
Wyoming GOP official asked congressmen for help ousting Cheney
Breaking with the longstanding norm of intraparty candidate neutrality, a Wyoming Republican Party official asked members of Congress for help vetting potential challengers to U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney in next year’s Republican primary.... more
Sweeping redesign of state’s mental health services policy underway
House Bill 38-Community behavioral health-priority populations passed during the 2021 legislative session, requires the Wyoming Department of Health to reconsider the state-funded mental health and substance abuse system. ... more
Documentary details repatriation of Northern Arapaho boys
What does it mean for a Native American tribe to bring home ancestral remains that have been buried in a faraway cemetery for more than a century?... more
State could have more flexibility with COVID funds
The reduction in revenue Wyoming has experienced over the past year may allow the state to use federal COVID-19 relief money more freely. ... more
Tribal leaders eye mascot ban, tuition discount
Maine became the first state to ban Native American mascots in 2019. Colorado has followed suit and six other states are considering similar legislation.... more
Archaeology dig near Tie Siding yields extensive artifacts
The southern Laramie Valley has served as a travel corridor for as long as humans have been crossing the plains, from Native American routes to the Cherokee Trail, Overland Stage Route, Union Pacific Railroad, Lincoln Highway and Interstate 80.... more
Teton County ranked 13th healthiest in nation
There are 3,143 counties and county equivalents (parishes, independent cities and the like) in the United States.... more
Inspired by media teacher, three friends headed to film school
Four years ago, Garrett Deary had no idea what kind of career he wanted to pursue. As a freshman at South High School, Deary decided to take a TV/Media class because he’d heard it could be an easy A. ... more
Wedding season rebounds in 2021 after COVID-19 upended ceremonies in 2020
The big day was originally supposed to be in May 2020. Tiffany Schatz and Luke Ely got engaged in August 2019, and nine months seemed more than enough time to plan a wedding.... more
Years-long restoration launches to keep 'Pink House' from fading into Grand Teton National Park history
When Kate Birmingham looks at the cracked stucco, fading pink exterior walls of one of Mormon Row’s trademark relic residences, it’s easy for her to imagine the home’s history.... more
Is LGBTQ Pride political? Schools struggle with the answer
The final days of the 2020-21 academic year for most Wyoming schools landed in June when, in addition to graduation and other end-of-year celebrations, many Wyoming students celebrated Pride Month.... more
Snake River at historic low levels
Although the substantial flows in view from the Highway 22 bridge suggest otherwise, the Snake River’s water year is looking increasingly, exceedingly grim.... more
Group works to redesign behavioral health system
A bill approved this spring created a “seismic shift” in the way the state’s behavioral health system functions, according to Wyoming Department of Health Chief Data Analyst Franz Fuchs.... more
Pelosi picks Cheney to serve on Jan. 6 committee
Rep. Liz Cheney will serve on the select committee investigating the Jan. 6 insurrection, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi announced in a Thursday press conference.... more
Sublette County’s long, bumpy road to build its first hospital
Ten days after delivering a baby girl by cesarean section in April 2019, Sublette County resident Ashli Tatro was home nursing her newborn around midnight when she suddenly knew something was wrong. ... more
Group says BLM whistleblower enduring ‘torture of the damned’
A group representing a federal environmental specialist blasted the Bureau of Land Management last week after the agency filed new termination papers against him.... more
Mule deer study raises red flags
There are still six months remaining in the three-year study to better understand why the population of the Upper Powder River mule deer herd is in decline, but already biologists have identified concerning trends.... more
Power company confident it can meet demand
Rocky Mountain Power is confident it can handle the heat.... more
Pharmacies worried for future without change in rules
Craig Jones, the owner of Basin Pharmacy and part-owner of Greybull Drug, and his daughter, Camilla Hancock, a doctor of pharmacy at Basin Pharmacy, have spent the last several months warning residents of the threat posed by PBMs, as they are known.... more
Douglas looks to change controversial document fees
The Douglas City Council last week informally instructed its attorney, Mike Armstrong, to start crafting changes to its controversial public records policy, which currently mandates that the public and press be charged for printed or emailed copies of city documents.... more
Will Wyoming voters override politicians to legalize marijuana?
Thirty years ago, Kemmerer native Madonna Long’s life changed forever.... more
Cheyenne man charged with murder in toddler’s death
Wyatt Dean Lamb, a suspect in the death of 2-year-old Athian Rivera, has been charged with the toddler’s murder, the Laramie County District Attorney’s office announced late Monday afternoon. ... more
Uinta County treasurer explains problematic issues with new mineral tax legislation
A bill passed by the Wyoming Legislature during the 2021 session is causing some confusion and consternation among county treasurers and entities dependent on county mill levies. ... more
Converse County valuation plummets $620 million
Converse County’s assessed valuation took a major hit this year, and while local officials are concerned, they remain hopeful things will start to turn around. ... more
Officials to NRA: Move to Wyoming; group yet to respond to letter from Gordon, secretary of state
Gov. Mark Gordon and Secretary of State Ed Buchanan have invited the National Rifle Association to relocate from Virginia to Wyoming, they said in a joint letter released Tuesday. ... more
Conservation effort protects cutthroat trout in Soldier Creek
Surrounded by a tall steel jack fence, laborers planted more than 1,100 cut and pre-rooted willows on the banks of Soldier Creek in the Bighorn Mountains last week.... more
Riverton man sentenced to 20-25 years for killing his friend last year
Mario Mills was sentenced on Wednesday to 20-25 years in prison for second-degree murder.... more
State scores highly for children’s well-being
The economic and family well-being of Wyoming’s children are among the best in the nation, according to a new report. But while the state excels in some categories, our youth are among the least healthy in the U.S. ... more
Supreme Court won't hear coal port lawsuit
Gov. Mark Gordon calls a decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to not take up a lawsuit challenging Washington state's denial of a coal export terminal "extremely frustrating."... more
Secretive PAC with Trump ties backing Gray in 2022 primaries
A secretive political action committee with distant ties to former President Donald Trump appears to be supporting state Rep. Chuck Gray, R-Casper, in the race to defeat U.S. Congresswoman Liz Cheney in next year’s Republican primary.... more
Stun and dismay follow political espionage revelations
Wealthy conservative donor Susan Gore was a key financier of a years-long effort to spy on Wyoming Democrats and Republicans, an article published Friday by the New York Times revealed, shining a light on the lengths to which the Gore-Tex heiress and Wyoming Liberty Group founder has gone to influence the state’s politics.... more
Man killed, trooper wounded in shootout near Lander
An exchange of gunfire Friday afternoon during a traffic stop left the driver of the stopped vehicle mortally shot and a Highway Patrol trooper wounded.... more
Former Pavillion clerk charged again with stealing from town
Originally charged with stealing more than $34,000 from the Town of Pavillion, the municipality’s former clerk was charged again last week, after more unexplained expenditures were discovered. ... more
Drought forces ranchers into tough, desperate decisions
A cloud of dust kicked up as Cass Hurley shuffled down a small hill in the middle of the 320-acre ranch she and her husband operate off North Heptner Road in Rozet. It’s not far beyond where the county stops maintaining the road.... more
Tribes take ownership of reservation oil field
After decades of leasing Circle Ridge Field, the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho have taken full ownership of the oil and gas field on the Wind River Reservation.... more
Towns exempt selves from public notice rules
Two Natrona County municipalities passed ordinances in recent months exempting themselves from publishing public notices in newspapers, council filings show.... more
Legislators say they were targeted by infiltration operation
Two Wyoming lawmakers and a former state representative say they were targeted as part of an undercover operation performed by conservative operatives to infiltrate political campaigns and progressive groups during the 2020 election cycle.... more
Sale of Jackson Hole Twin Cinema marks 'end of an era’
It was December 1996, just before Christmas, and projectionist Doug Hagen had just started playing “The Preacher’s Wife” at the Jackson Hole Twin Cinema.... more
In sickness and in health: woman remarries dying ex-husband
Patty Edwards had spent her morning like most days that month: thinking longingly about her ex-husband. But this January day, something was different. ... more
Rock Band Camp wows crowd after just a week of practice together
Hayden Young’s first performance in a rock band was Friday night.... more
Researchers hunt for clues behind decline of Wyo’s largest turtle
Up close, the spiny softshell turtle looks a little like a leather pancake, but few people get that kind of glimpse.... more
Who is the Florida man trying to defeat Liz Cheney?
A Florida resident who has become an odd player in the campaign to replace Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney says controversial statements he made in the past, like those related to the QAnon conspiracy theory, were part of an effort to discredit a liberal media that was poised against him.... more
Feds to stock cows in lieu of sheep
The Bridger-Teton National Forest is making moves to allow cattle to graze four eastern Gros Ventre Range allotments that were cleared of domestic sheep because of the threat they posed to wild bighorn sheep.... more
Recent Wyoming data illustrates vaccine success
To date, there has been one COVID-19 related death of a fully vaccinated Wyoming resident, according to the health department.... more
Campfire restrictions coming in northwest Wyo
Discussions are ramping up about prohibiting campfires outside campgrounds as the wildfire danger continues to climb in northwest Wyoming.... more
Montana man arrested, accused of starting Robertson Draw Fire
A Bridger, Montana, man was arrested Wednesday on allegations that he started the 28,600-acre Robertson Draw Fire while off-trail on his motorcycle. ... more
Thousands descend on Sheridan for motorcycle convention
As more than 3,000 members of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association descend on Sheridan this week, it’s still something of a shock for Rachel Webb.... more
Highly contagious COVID variant found in Wyoming
The highly contagious delta variant of the novel coronavirus has been identified in Wyoming, according to state data.... more
UW faculty stretched thin after latest budget cuts
The University of Wyoming will enter the 2022 fiscal year with a wide array of new financial constraints after the school’s board of trustees finalized roughly $16.5 million in reduced spending on June 16.... more
Problem grizzly or problem people? A Togwotee Pass standoff
A two-week effort to haze a popular mother grizzly bear and her cubs away from Highway 26/287 over Togwotee Pass where they have been attracting hundreds of gawkers is showing results, a top federal wildlife official said Monday.... more
Reviving the Red Desert’s ancient stories
Sitting in the verdant shade of an aspen grove on Steamboat Mountain — which rises out of the Red Desert in southern Wyoming — Jason Baldes talks about buffalo.... more
Experts: Wyo juvenile justice lacks adequate data, consistency
Reform advocates last week pushed the Wyoming Legislature to reduce the county-by-county inconsistencies, and fill the outcome-tracking holes that have long plagued the state’s juvenile justice system.... more
Low statewide vaccination raise concerns of future COVID-19 spikes
Despite the best efforts of public health officials, Wyoming still ranks 48th among states for the percentage of adults who have received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine and 47th for those who are fully vaccinated.... more
Budget cuts to impact community mental health centers, hospital
Despite a record-high need for mental health and substance abuse services, the Wyoming Department of Health, which provides support for community mental health centers across the state, faces a $7.5 million budget reduction, effective July 1.... more
Cercy accuser files lawsuit
The woman who accused former Casper businessman Tony Cercy of sexually assaulting her in 2017 filed a federal lawsuit against him Tuesday alleging assault and battery. ... more
Gov. Gordon signs Juneteenth holiday bill
Wyoming has recognized Juneteenth as a holiday since the state legislature passed a bill in 2003.... more
Robertson Draw Fire slows after nearing 30K acres
The Robertson Draw Fire north of Clark expanded to 29,474 acres as of Sunday night with 45-percent containment reported. Sunday morning marked the first time since the fire started that any containment had been reported.... more
Weaver murder trial date still uncertain
It's still up in the air whether the trial of a man accused of fatally shooting two adults and injuring two children will go forward in August.... more
State officials share job cut details
Almost a year ago, Gov. Mark Gordon announced that hundreds of state jobs would be eliminated as part of sweeping budget cuts. Only a fraction of the cuts resulted in layoffs — most of the positions were vacant. ... more
Redistricting ramps up. Here’s what to expect
Wyoming lawmakers have begun the lengthy and involved process of redrawing legislative district maps for the next decade.... more
Legislators study early count of absentee votes
State legislators plan to consider allowing county clerks in Wyoming to process absentee ballots before election day. ... more
Campbell Co. valuation down by one-fifth in one year
Campbell County’s assessed valuation has dropped to a level not seen since the mid-2000s.... more
Report says transition for coal workers possible
As jobs in the coal industry dwindle, the central question persists: Where will its workers go?... more
Permitting work for new wind project to begin
The permitting process for the proposed Rock Creek Wind Project is set to begin this summer, and if all goes according to plan, construction on the 590-megawatt project could start as soon as 2023.... more
54 years MIA, Worland veteran’s remains coming home
It has been over 50 years since Worland native and Vietnam veteran Alva R. Krogman, better known as Ray, disappeared over Laos, and in about a month, he will return to Worland for his final resting place. ... more
Jackson businesses turn to unconventional means to tackle housing, staff shortages
When May hit, Hannah Pollat started to throw in the towel.... more
Toy library offers new toys bi-weekly for young children
So many good things rose from the devastation of the COVID pandemic: fiscal resilience, societal reflection and several new businesses, including the used-toys lending service The Nest Toy Library.... more
Mission to hug cops in all 50 states brings 11-year-old to Cheyenne
There were more hugs than usual June 11 at the Wyoming State Capitol.... more
Judge prevents drilling-site work, citing threats to sage grouse
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management “failed to take a hard look at the direct and indirect impacts to greater sage-grouse,” Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Ronald Bush of Idaho wrote in a June 9 ruling. He sent the leases back to the BLM for additional scrutiny.... more
Working group formed to look into fire pension plan
Time is of the essence for the plan, which serves 266 pensioners and their beneficiaries, including 25 Sheridan residents. If nothing changes, the fund will be exhausted sometime in 2026.... more
Six new wind farms planned for Wyoming
If built, the 19 wind, solar, battery storage and transmission proposals that made PacifiCorp’s shortlist would span four states with a collective capacity of 3,200 megawatts.... more
Big gatherings, low vaccination blamed for Laramie Co. COVID spike
A recent rise in COVID-19 cases in Laramie County can be traced back to a few large gatherings and still-too-low vaccination rates, said Kathy Emmons, executive director of the Cheyenne-Laramie County Health Department.... more
UW Board of Trustees consider a $260 million bond for campus construction
The University of Wyoming Board of Trustees met early Wednesday morning to discuss a resolution that authorizes the issuance of $260 million in bonds for the construction of new housing and parking facilities on campus. ... more
Active fires challenge area agencies
Amid high winds and triple-digit temperatures, wildland fires have exploded in northern Wyoming and southern Montana. ... more
Judge’s ruling spurs optimism
Wyoming’s energy industry reacted with cautious optimism Wednesday to a court ruling blocking the Biden administration’s freeze on new oil and gas leasing on federal lands. ... more
State bar charge filed against Laramie County DA
A formal charge against Laramie County District Attorney Leigh Anne Manlove was filed Friday with the Wyoming State Bar’s Board of Personal Responsibility, detailing what it called “incompetence and lack of professionalism.”... more
Laramie County ranching families fear loss of springs, creeks, way of life
Tim Rutledge says he’s already seen the damage large water wells can do to the Donahue Spring, a sweetwater fount that bubbles to the surface a short stroll from the front door of his ranch home.... more
School districts’ uses of federal relief funds worry lawmakers
Some lawmakers are worried that school districts are using federal pandemic-relief and recovery funds to add new positions and purchase equipment that might add to ongoing costs for the state.... more
Supreme Court: Lying officer’s name stays in hemp-case record
The Wyoming Supreme Court last week rejected a motion by the Attorney General’s Office to remove from the record the identity of a law enforcement officer whom the court found lied during testimony against Albin hemp farmers.... more
Barrasso critique of BLM nominee said to politicize bureaucratic post
Wyoming’s senior U.S. Sen. John Barrasso offered harsh criticism of President Joe Biden’s nominee to run the Bureau of Land Management last week, underscoring what experts describe as an increasing politicization of the typically bureaucratic role.... more
Campbell County commissioner suggests dissolving cemetery district to help fund college
Campbell County voters will decide Aug. 17 whether they want Gillette College to become its own community college district. If approved, a board of seven trustees, who will be elected in that special election, will get to set a tax to help fund the district.... more
Gordon strategizes use of ARP funds
Gov. Mark Gordon and the Wyoming Legislature are playing the long game when it comes to American Rescue Plan relief funding, mapping out a three-pronged plan that is centered around serving future generations of Wyomingites. ... more
Hate crime bills draw support; state lawmakers vote to draft legislation after emotional testimony
The debate over hate crimes legislation included a critical question: Does Wyoming already have a law on the books? The answer depends on whom you ask. ... more
UW event to explore anti-racist education
The University of Wyoming Black Studies Center will hold a virtual symposium July 2 called “What to the Slave’s Children is the Fourth of July?” focused on anti-racist education and the national debate around teaching critical race theory in American schools. ... more
Liz Cheney: ‘I don’ t feel any real downside ’ to losing chair position
Despite her House record, the vote that couldn’t be forgiven by some was the “yes” on Jan. 13 to impeach Trump for “incitement of insurrection” tied to his role in the Jan. 6 overrun of the U.S. Capitol. ... more
Legislature revives tourism improvement district discussions
The Wyoming Legislature’s Joint Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions committee may provide an additional source of funding for the state’s tourism industry.... more
Lawmakers mull major election changes
Wyoming lawmakers are weighing a significant overhaul of the state’s elections.... more
Expert: Reactor will be safe; Nuclear proposal incorporates molten sodium technology
After the recent announcement that Wyoming would be getting a nuclear power plant, many Wyomingites had a similar question. Is it safe?... more
Creating a more resilient landscape; Officials outline objectives of fire management plan
Officials from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the city of Cheyenne spoke favorably Wednesday about a 15-year forest management plan that covers much of southeastern Wyoming.... more
CDC awards state $38M; Money is to be used to bridge pandemic health disparities
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awarded Wyoming $38.3 million to address health disparities in the state’s pandemic response.... more
Pot advocates introduce ballot initiatives
A number of cannabis advocates and members of the Libertarian Party made history Friday as they submitted two marijuana-related ballot initiatives, kicking off a campaign that will last until next November. ... more
Improved conditions may not replenish hay supply
While last summer's drought conditions created difficulty for many Johnson County hay producers — cutting the crop for some to as little as one-third of the normal yield — hay conditions are so far improved. Continued spells of hot temperatures, though, could mark a return to difficult conditions.... more
Bill would limit vaccine mandates
A bill that forbids employers from requiring staff to show proof of vaccination in most cases gained near-unanimous support from a Wyoming legislative committee Thursday. ... more
Officials predict “fairly significant” fire season
Still, officials expressed confidence about having the resources to effectively fight this season’s wildfires. ... more
Documentary focuses on runner following deer migration route
A documentary combining outdoor adventure and mule deer migration is now available for viewing online.... more
Gillette residents help reunite lost dog with Nebraska owner
Losing a pet can leave a hopeless feeling. It brings about a surge of adrenaline in those first few moments of searching, which turns to a dull ache as the hours stretch into days.... more
Group encourages use of lead-free ammo, tackle
A new Wyoming hunting group wants to prove the value of switching ammo and tackle to local sportsmen and women. They know success won’t come easy, but the journey will be worth it if they can keep poison off your plate.... more
Legislators clash over election bill pledge
An interim meeting of the Joint Corporations, Elections & Political Subdivisions Committee became the unexpected venue for a discussion of ethics on Monday.... more
Mental evaluation ordered for Torrington murder suspect
A case against a former Park County resident accused of murdering a Torrington woman has been put on hold, after questions were raised about his competency.... more
Confession rejected as evidence in murder trial
A woman’s murder confession will not be allowed in evidence because she was not granted an attorney during her police interview after requesting one. ... more
Groups pursue pot initiatives for election
The state and national Libertarian Party as well as Wyoming community leaders will deliver two marijuana ballot initiatives to the Wyoming secretary of state Friday.... more
Budget casualties: Mental health and substance abuse services
After 15 years serving adults living with severe mental illness and homelessness, a supervised group home in Campbell County has closed its doors because of state-level budget reductions. ... more
Barrasso bill would protect 14% of study areas as wilderness
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso’s proposed legislation to protect 20,381 acres of wilderness in four Wyoming counties disappoints conservationists who say its official designation of about 14 percent of eligible areas it addresses is flawed.... more
Autonomous buses debut in Yellowstone
Even in the twilight years of life, Walt McMahon isn’t one to eschew a technological innovation when he sees one.... more
Converse Co. officials weigh possibility of nuke plant
It’s a good question, and one that no one has a definitive public answer for – yet.... more
Wyoming youth vaccination rate trails nation
Wyoming youth have at least one thing in common with their parents; they are among the least vaccinated groups in the nation.... more
Supreme Court allows tribal law enforcement to search non-tribal members
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that tribal law enforcement officers can search non-tribal offenders on public roadways that pass through Indian reservations.... more
JBS Foods cyber attack highlights need for more local processing capacity
JBS controls 25 percent of the meat processing in the U.S. so a prolonged shutdown can have far-reaching impacts on producers. ... more
Strengthening stockgrowers: Lummis speaks at WSGA conference in Sheridan
Farming has long played a key role in Wyoming’s history, and it remains one of the driving forces of the state’s economy and culture.... more
Voting changes gain support
A state legislative committee voted Monday to pursue two bills that would significantly change the way Wyoming’s statewide elections are run as soon as next year.... more
Nuclear announcement expands state's reputation as energy capitol of the nation
A prototype nuclear facility promises to bolster Wyoming’s status as the nation’s leader in energy production even as the state’s once-dominant thermal coal mines continue a prolonged meltdown.... more
Grassroots and global players: The crowded campaign to oust Cheney
In a Cheyenne strip-mall banquet hall, Scott Presler — a nationally recognized conservative activist and Donald Trump loyalist best known for organizing post-protest community cleanups in liberal cities — whipped up the crowd.... more
Inside the campaign-finance ‘end run’ that earned GOP an FEC fine
The Wyoming Republican Party secretly supported a 2016 Trump campaign “end run” around donation limitations without securing requisite authorization, according to a former official involved in the matter. ... more
Life sentence issued in boy’s murder
Christopher James Nielsen has been sentenced to life in prison without parole on first-degree murder charges for the death of a 5-year-old boy in his care.... more
Schools begin planning to spend COVID relief money
Wyoming school districts have begun receiving much-needed federal pandemic relief dollars, and are planning how to spend promised dollars not yet received.... more
Special legislative session plans canceled
In an unexpected turn, there will not be a special legislative session in mid-July, Gov. Mark Gordon and statehouse leaders announced in a joint statement Friday. ... more
Laramie rancher sues over COVID recovery program
Leisl Carpenter, a sixth-generation rancher and owner of the Flying Heart Ranch in the Big Laramie Valley, has filed a lawsuit against the Biden administration, claiming the $4 billion American Rescue Plan Section 1005, which targets “socially disadvantaged” farmers and ranchers, violates equal protection laws under the U.S. Constitution and blatantly discriminates against white farmers and ranchers.... more
Upper Wind River tributaries proposed for instream flow rights
Wyoming fisheries managers are taking steps to ensure that water remains in a handful of Wind River tributaries that provide crucial habitat for the watershed’s struggling native Yellowstone cutthroat trout.... more
Gillette officials excited about nuclear power plant
Gillette's potential as a site for a new nuclear power plant excites local officials.... more
Gun rights group sues state officials
Wyoming Gun Owners filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday against Wyoming Secretary of State Ed Buchanan and Attorney General Bridget Hill claiming that Wyoming’s electioneering communications law is unconstitutionally vague under the First Amendment.... more
Albany County sheriff’s officer resigns
A short, straight-forward news release from the Albany County Sheriff ’s Office early Thursday morning came as a welcome sigh of relief for many members of the Laramie community. ... more
Treasurer seeks delay in monthly ad valorem payments
Newly passed legislation appears to be causing headaches for county treasurers throughout Wyoming before it has even taken effect. ... more
Hotels, motels short of workers
For owner Brenda O’Shea, a good summer at A Western Rose Motel requires a certain factor no matter how many customers she gets: employees.... more
Wyoming towns eager to host nuclear plant
Four Wyoming communities are in the running to play host to a new nuclear reactor coming to the state.... more
Albany commissioners take up wind project
After five hours of sometimes heated testimony regarding the proposed Rail Tie Wind Project, the Albany County Board of Commissioners closed the public hearing Tuesday night without making a decision. ... more
Demo nuclear plant to be built in Wyoming
Wyoming will become the site of a novel nuclear energy plant in a move announced Wednesday by Gov. Mark Gordon that could diversify the state’s economy and put the nation on a path toward a carbon-free electricity grid by 2035.... more
Wyoming’s own Tyrannosaurus: Lee Rex may be the first specimen of its kind to stay in state
The first T. rex skeleton found in Wyoming lives in the British Museum, about 4,500 miles from its original habitat.... more
Artist turns recycled pallets into a whimsical sculpture in Jackson Hole
Where once there were pebbles, now sits an enormous troll.... more
Graduating senior reconnects with police officer present at her birth after almost 18 years
Rachel Rasse and Dan Stroup had met once before, but don’t know each other. Not really.... more
Wyoming holding course despite lagging vaccination rate
Wyoming’s Covid-19 vaccination rate remains among the lowest in the nation, yet the state has declined to set quantifiable goals, offer incentives or otherwise modify its approach to address the underperformance. ... more
Barrasso bill aims to resolve in-limbo wilderness study areas
A statewide effort to reach a consensus about what to do with Wyoming’s wilderness study areas is being revived legislatively more than two years after it ended with an outcome that left many conservationists disgruntled.... more
Casper police shooting facts still in dispute
The city of Casper is trying to end a years-long lawsuit over a police shooting that killed a man walking down 15th Street in 2018. ... more
Laramie County School District sued over public meetings access
A group of Laramie County residents, including a state lawmaker from Cheyenne, is suing Laramie County School District 1, its Board of Trustees, the superintendent and assistant superintendent for allegedly holding school board meetings that were not compliant with state public meetings law.... more
Wyoming’s infrastructure wishlist
Wyoming, like the rest of the country, has an infrastructure problem.... more
No zebra mussels detected in Wyoming waters
Although a highly invasive and harmful mussel was unexpectedly found in aquarium decorations at Wyoming pet stores earlier this year, wildlife officials say they have not yet detected the zebra mussels in state waters.... more
State board considers name change for the ‘Squaw Teats’
Although Park County commissioners want a pair of local buttes to continue to be known as “Squaw Teats,” a state board may not. ... more
Influencers get a legislative hand on federal lands filming
New legislation spearheaded by U.S. Sen. John Barrasso proposes to do away with permit fees for small film crews and social media influencers shooting video on most federal land.... more
Judge sides with Game and Fish, limits grizzly-killed livestock award
A judge decided Monday to reduce by $205,483 an arbitration panel’s award to a Hot Springs County rancher for cattle lost to grizzly bears.... more
Outdoor onslaught: Officials brace for huge summer crowds
Campsites, trailhead parking spots and outdoor reservations in Wyoming will likely be harder than ever to snag this summer as public land managers expect an even larger flood of visitation than 2020’s. ... more
Man accused in eye gouging moved to State Hospital
Rose was hospitalized for psychiatric issues in SageWest Health Care in Lander on Thanksgiving Day 2020, when, according to hospital staff, he rushed out of his own room, into an elderly woman’s room, and gouged out the woman’s eye.... more
Unemployment rate rises slightly
Wyoming’s unemployment rate rose slightly from 5.3 percent to 5.4 percent in April, according to new numbers by the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services.... more
Construction companies deal with low material supply
Excalibur Construction used to order its building materials on a per-house basis. This year, they’re ordering per semi-truck.... more
Jackson startup brings wearable technology to beef industry
In Melissa Brandao’s vision, every cow in Wyoming will soon sport a new high-tech earring, transferring real-time data via Bluetooth on the animal’s location and biometrics.... more
Cam-Plex prepares for international ‘Camporee’
Of all the multi-million dollar facilities at Cam-plex, ones costing about $600 have generated the most interest recently.... more
Man saves friend who had COVID-19
Ray Maple found his friend John Treese lying naked on the floor nearly unresponsive.... more
Powell company makes history with sage grouse hatching
Locked away in a small, isolated room in the back of a shop at Diamond Wings Upland Game Birds, a sleep-deprived Karl Bear watched history being made.... more
Jackson fireworks become flashpoint in ongoing funding debate
Town Councilor Jonathan Schechter caused a stir in the last week after he sent a snappy email to the Teton Board of Realtors, saying he wouldn’t support giving it $12,000 in town and county funds.... more
Committee revives controversial gun bill in surprise vote
The Joint Agriculture Committee Tuesday revived a controversial gun rights bill on a split-second, unannounced vote moments before the committee adjourned in a move lambasted by critics for its lack of transparency.... more
UW athletes learn about brand building
With name, image and likeness legislation becoming more prevalent around the country, the University of Wyoming has teamed up with one of its own to start preparing its student-athletes accordingly.... more
Woman avoids prison in $400K embezzlement
Moments after pleading guilty to nearly half a million dollars in thefts, Laura Burleson was sentenced Wednesday morning to probation, with a suspended prison term of five and-a-half to seven years. ... more
Wyoming just got $500M from Biden’s rescue plan. Now what?
Wyoming received the first $500 million installment of its billion-dollar share of American Rescue Plan funds last week, setting the stage for a July special legislative session dedicated to appropriating the money.... more
Video bloggers involved in some commercial ventures now able to film in national parks without prior approval
A federal judge recently found the permit and fee requirements for filming video on National Park Service properties are unconstitutional.... more
Feds weigh in against coal port
Wyoming’s lawsuit over a blocked coal export terminal is moot because the company behind the proposal is bankrupt and won’t be building the project, the federal government argued in a new filing to the U.S. Supreme Court.... more
"Gotcha" exercise creates internet stir
Two self-proclaimed “First Amendment auditors” came to Sundance last week on a mission to “prove” that local law enforcement goes beyond its remit and encroaches upon citizens’ right to freedom of speech.... more
Wyo Business Council recruit pays $5.6M federal fraud settlement
Wyoming Business Council recruit Tungsten Heavy Powder — a California defense contractor with Laramie-based manufacturing — has agreed to pay the federal government $5.6 million to settle fraud allegations from the Department of Justice.... more
Officials struggle with drone harassment of bears
Policing places where wildlife and humans overlap has always been a challenge, and documents show drones adding to the increasingly tense situation on Togwotee Pass. Now law enforcement is cracking down on crowds.... more
Stores, shooters still dealing with ammo shortage
Despite reports that gun and ammunition manufacturers are back to running at or near full capacity, shelves at local sporting goods stores often remain bare.... more
UW plans return to full capacity for football games
If everything goes according to plan, Wyoming will play its home football games inside a full War Memorial Stadium this fall.... more
COVID hospitalizations highest since January
The state had 58 virus-related hospitalizations Monday, far less than the highest point of 247 in late November.... more
Suit against new tribal counsel adds allegations
Originally accused of defamation and interference with livelihood, which are civil complaints, the Northern Arapaho Tribe’s attorney now is being sued on claims of racketeering and fraud. ... more
Judge rules in favor of commissioners, denies motion to delay enactment of horse racing resolution
Because 307 Horse Racing has an exclusive contract with Cam-plex to conduct live horse racing through 2025, that means that if nothing changes, Wyoming Downs and the Horse Palace must remain closed to off-track betting for the next five years.... more
Bouchard will remain in U.S. House race
Bouchard scoffed at the idea that he might drop out.... more
Group complains about gifts to Game and Fish
A cease and desist letter was sent Friday by one of the former commissioners in the group’s sights.... more
Jail drug smuggling operation involved deoderant, greeting cards
A drug-smuggling conspiracy involving deodorant and greeting cards was discovered last month, when jail staff found opiates glued in the stacked back paper of a card.... more
Committee examines fuel tax again
A fuel tax increase is again being considered by the Wyoming Legislature’s Joint Transportation, Highways and Military Affairs Committee to address the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s structural funding deficit.... more
Statewide public health orders reach expected final phase
The Wyoming Department of Health on Friday announced the likely final phase for statewide public health orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the immediate removal of one of the two remaining orders.... more
Bouchard announces he impregnated, married girl as teen
U.S. House candidate Anthony Bouchard had a relationship with and impregnated a 14-year-old girl when he was 18, he told the Casper Star-Tribune late Thursday, hours after he disclosed the relationship in a Facebook Live video to his supporters.... more
Eastern Wyoming College student survives horrific accident
On Saturday, March 6, Samantha Hill was headed to her parents’ house in Colorado for the weekend. However, instead of seeing her family in Colorado, they would be coming to see her in Nebraska after a life-changing accident. ... more
Rental car shortage grinds gears in Teton County
At the R Lazy S Ranch, the dude ranch sitting just below the quieter, southern entrance to Grand Teton National Park, people pay an all-inclusive weekly rate for food, lodging, horseback riding and on-ranch fishing: about $2,000 per person, on the lower end.... more
Craftsmanship shines for first graduates of gunsmithing class
Douglas Macdonald, 66, took great pride in showing off the craftsmanship of his rifles to the people who visited his table. One of them was a rifle he designed using a dark, smooth slab of English walnut wood.... more
Gillette man officially becomes U.S. citizen after long delay due to COVID-19
Just after 4 p.m. May 7, 2021, Valerie Bahige realized a dream.... more
What does Bitcoin’s bust mean for Wyo’s cryptocurrency sector?
Cryptocurrency values plunged over the past week, with Bitcoin — the most prominent digital currency — losing roughly one-third of its value in a single month.... more
Saratoga housing shortage prompts affordable housing discussion
As houses seemingly fly off the market and rentals are non-existent in the Platte Valley, the topic of affordable housing appears to be ever more prevalent. ... more
Woman argues she was too drunk to confess to killing husband
Debate over just how drunk BenniLee Strock was during her police interview the night of Christmas Eve filled hours of court Tuesday morning. ... more
Medicaid expansion would create almost 2,000 jobs, study says
Expanding Medicaid could create nearly 2,000 Wyoming jobs and grow the state’s overall economic output by $1.5 billion in five years, according to a new report published Thursday.... more
Barrasso, Lummis criticize Jan. 6 commission
Cheney, who lost her GOP leadership position last week due to her ongoing criticisms of former President Donald Trump’s rhetoric, was among those who backed the commission.... more
Getting clean: Addiction medicine program sees success in Sheridan County
He tried everything to get clean. Chris Evans attended in-patient substance abuse treatment 11 times. ... more
Man pleads not guilty to 31 counts of aggravated child abuse
A Gillette man has pleaded not guilty to 31 counts of aggravated child abuse.... more
Report: 25 percent of state residents skeptical of COVID
A new national survey aims to answer not just whether people will accept a COVID-19 vaccine, but why they might not. ... more
Wyoming high court censures Cheyenne lawyer, former assistant DA
The case, which charged four people with multiple felonies related to allegedly growing marijuana on their hemp farm, was later dismissed.... more
Report: Coal’s decline hits Powder River Basin mines differently
Powder River Basin mines that supply lower-heating-value coals — including several operated by newcomers Eagle Specialty Materials and Navajo Transitional Energy Co. — might be at greater risk of closing sooner, according to a new report.... more
Forest Service moves to weaken bighorn protections in Wyo Range
The Bridger-Teton National Forest is proposing to allow domestic sheep “restocking” by amending its management plan. It is seeking input by June 7 on issues it should address.... more
Wyoming GOP resoundingly re-elects leadership
Sitting Vice Chairman Dave Holland and Secretary-elect Donna Rice also ran unopposed for their positions.... more
Parks could see busiest summer ever
Grand Teton National Park’s new superintendent felt the inflection point come the last week of April.... more
Companies plan 63 new wells in Converse County
Three major players in the oil industry have confirmed they are planning to drill 63 wells (cumulatively) in Converse County in 2021. ... more
Gillette College campaign heats up
In opposition of the new district is the Anti Tax Coalition, headed by rancher Jacob Dalby.... more
Sheridan businesswoman to challenge Cheney
It’s only been a week since the last candidate for Wyoming’s U.S. House seat announced their campaign, and Rep. Liz Cheney has even more challengers in her upcoming race. ... more
Lawmakers discuss funding fix for emergency communications system
With money expected to run out by next summer for the state’s emergency communications system, known as WyoLink, lawmakers discussed potential ways to fund the radio system during a committee meeting Tuesday.... more
County ambulance prospects keep an eye on Medicaid expansion in state
Prospective ambulance contractors for Fremont County might be waiting to see if Wyoming adopts Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act. Expansion could make ambulance service attractive financially for an ambulance provider. ... more
After six months, Cheyenne Police Department civilian review board members have gained insight, seek improvements
Roughly six months ago, the Cheyenne Police Department took the relatively uncommon step of not only forming a board that would review instances where officers used force, but adding three civilian members to it.... more
Wrongful arrest case may head to jury
The case of a man who says he was wrongfully arrested when Casper police came to his work looking for another man may be heading to a jury, recent court filings suggest.... more
Nominations welcome for Woman Entrepreneur Award
The Wyoming Council for Women is seeking nominations for outstanding female entrepreneurs across the state for recognition of the annual Women Entrepreneur Award.... more
Medicaid expansion revived despite flood of misinformation
If adopted by the full Legislature, the bill would take advantage of $120 million in new funding over the next two years from the Biden Administration to establish the program, and provide insurance to an estimated 24,000 individuals in Wyoming who lack it.... more
Restoring the ancients; native Wyo fish reclaim some waters
Wyoming’s Powder, Bighorn and North Platte rivers serve as headwaters of the Missouri River. ... more
Cheney’s ouster mirrors battles within Wyoming’s GOP
Many of those in Wyoming loyal to Trump, including her opponents in the 2022 election, reveled in her removal and touted their ongoing support of the former president, who is now considered by many to be the de facto leader of the Republican Party. ... more
Campbell commissioners sued over horse racing
The injunction asked the 6th Judicial District Court to scratch the resolution out of the gate.... more
Wind River tribes look at legalizing marijuana
Meanwhile the Northern Arapaho Tribe voted last weekend in favor of decriminalizing marijuana.... more
Barrasso encouraged after infrastructure bill meeting
Biden’s proposal, which was unveiled at the end of March, calls for an upgrade to 20,000 miles of highways, roads and main streets nationwide, as well as the reconstruction of the 10 most economically significant bridges in the country and 10,000 smaller bridges in poor condition.... more
Students excel on Mars and at sea; Gilman’s art classes are far beyond art
This year, the Powell High School senior art class did some double duty because, after COVID-19 closed school after spring break last year, there was still a project to complete. ... more
Scientists strive to map global migrations before they’re gone
Matt Kauffman was at an Italian conference and talking over coffee with fellow ecologists when he got to thinking that the challenges facing Wyoming’s migratory deer, elk and pronghorn are shared by wildlife around the world.... more
Stimulation technology helps Overman fight Parkinson's
While he has both good and bad days, the treatment has allowed him to live a little more normally again. ... more
State GOP backs local party as Williams and others deny they voted illegally
A response has been filed in the civil suit claiming the March leadership elections of the Uinta County Republican Party were conducted illegally. ... more
Supreme Court: Traffic stop unlawful
The Wyoming Supreme Court reversed the conviction of a Campbell County man who was arrested for methamphetamine and child endangerment after a traffic stop he said was unlawfully extended past its initial purpose, according to a decision last week. ... more
Proposed land exchange raises questions of access, value, process
The Columbus Peak Ranch, LLC land exchange proposes trading 628.35 acres of privately-owned land located east of Dayton for 560 acres of state trust land located northwest of Dayton.... more
Cheney will continue to 'fight for the truth,' says GOP can be fixed
About 24 hours removed from being voted out as the GOP conference chair, the No. 3 leadership position in the U.S. House, the Wyoming Republican said she remains a believer in her party and that a deep divide caused by Trump can be fixed.... more
LCCC study: Wyo residents can afford more taxes
Wyoming residents can afford to pay more in taxes, an analysis by the Laramie County Community College’s Center for Business and Economic Analysis argues, citing the state’s already-low tax burden and relatively inexpensive cost of living.... more
Big Horn commissioners collect input on Second Amendment proclamation
More than 120 county residents packed the Weed & Pest building outside of Greybull to voice concerns about federal government overreach. ... more
Tolerance key to grizzly conservation, state says
Education is the top priority in Wyoming’s $55 million, decades-long battle to recover and conserve grizzly bears. ... more
Campbell schools won’t ‘recapture’ for first time in decades
Both Sublette school districts among those recaptured.... more
Tribunal recommends disbarment for former prosecutor
The tribunal has recommended Becket Hinckley’s disbarment, but the Wyoming Supreme Court will have the final decision.... more
Cheney supporters, critics offer reaction to ouster
Cheney, who has served as Wyoming’s sole House representative since 2017, voted to impeach Trump in mid-January for his role in inciting the Jan. 6 insurrection on the U.S. Capitol, stating at the time that there has “never been a greater betrayal” by a U.S. president than the actions taken by the former president.... more
Lawsuit over health orders dismissed
Judge Edelman ruled that petitioners lacked standing in the case because there is no direct connection between the health orders and any alleged injuries plaintiffs may have suffered, among other reasons.... more
Legislature to guarantee remote meeting access through 2021
The policy, which only impacts the 2021 interim, also allows lawmakers to participate in meetings remotely without being docked pay.... more
Groups want federal budget to allow sage grouse assessment
Any rider “blocks FWS from carrying out its basic responsibilities under the ESA,” the groups wrote in a two-page letter dated May 4.... more
FEC fines Wyoming GOP $52,000
In March, the Wyoming Republican Party paid the FEC $52,000 for an unspecified campaign finance violation, according to campaign finance records.... more
Wolf numbers about flat in Wyoming range
State legislatures in Montana and Idaho have recently earned headlines for going over wildlife managers’ heads and adopting policies that require wolf populations be cut by as much as 90 percent.... more
Camping area closed by dam concerns
The park sits below the 111-year-old dam, which has known structural integrity issues.... more
Ramoco mine could be open by fall, CEO says
After years of permitting review and promised timelines that have come and gone, Ramaco Carbon CEO Randall Atkins said Wyoming's first new coal mine in more than four decades could be operational as early as this fall.... more
Committee revives Medicaid expansion
The 9-5 vote promises the proposal will have committee sponsorship during the special session planned for July or a budget session in February, depending on when legislative leaders choose to act on the bill.... more
Former Buffalo Bill Center employee sues museum
A former employee of the Buffalo Bill Center of the West has filed suit against the museum in U.S. Federal Court.... more
Couple pleads not guilty to murder in child’s death
The couple is charged in connection with the April 4 death of Williams’ daughter, Paisleigh Williams. ... more
Former Gillette resident returns to challenge Cheney
Denton Knapp, a 1983 CCHS grad who served for 30 years in the U.S. Army, has announced that he will challenge Republican Rep. Liz Cheney.... more
Former prosecutor admits negligence
The Wyoming Supreme Court, in a 2017 decision reversing Black’s case, also said there was “no question” that there was prosecutorial misconduct during Black’s trial.... more
Riverton superintendent pleads not guilty to DUI
Flanagan was taken into custody briefly on Saturday, April 22.... more
Forest eyes revision to allow domestic sheep to graze
Jonathan Ratner wasn’t pleased to read a public notice that the Bridger-Teton National Forest is looking to change how it protects wild bighorn sheep from catastrophic diseases spread by domestic sheep.... more
Federal grants add momentum to Wyo carbon capture movement
The funding did not arrive in Wyoming unprompted.... more
Sage grouse hunters shot about 7,600 birds in 2019
Earlier this year the agency said sage grouse hunters in 2020 voluntarily deposited 2,156 wings — the agency asks for one from each grouse killed — in collection barrels set out during the season.... more
National group eyeing Buchanan as Cheney replacement
Club for Growth did not respond to an email requesting comment, nor did Buchanan’s office. Cheney’s office declined to comment.... more
Legislature’s remote meeting option will continue into interim
The pre-approved locations are limited to more populous areas of the state, however, and fail to cover some more rural areas of Wyoming. ... more
Young grizzly cast off, finds trouble, hauled north
It’s well known that grizzly bears that grow up roadside in Grand Teton National Park tend to habituate to being around people.... more
Darin Smith announces run against Liz Cheney for U.S. House seat
Standing in front of the Wyoming Capitol, Smith said he’s “sick and tired of politics as usual.”... more
Gordon prohibits vaccine passports
Gov. Mark Gordon signed a directive Friday prohibiting state entities from requiring “vaccine passports.”... more
UP Energy purchases Pinedale Energy Partners
One less operator and over a dozen fewer jobs exist on the Pinedale Anticline now than this time last month. ... more
Closed rest stops to reopen
Nine Wyoming rest stops that were closed last year due to budget cuts will reopen later this month, Gov. Mark Gordon’s office announced Thursday.... more
Construction resumes on wind project that has generated national attention
Construction on the Chokecherry and Sierra Madre Wind Energy Project in Carbon County started again for the season on April 12, and the project has generated its fair share of national attention in recent months.... more
Former St. Jude CEO turns private collection of military vehicles into sprawling museum in Dubois
In 2010, Dan Starks got a patriotic idea.... more
Powell’s drive-in debut: The American Dream Drive-In was Wyoming’s first — and is its last — outdoor movie theater
Pokey Heny always gets opening night jitters. ... more
Gillette students modify books for students in Guatemala
Heidi DeStefano, now an educational author after more than a decade as a kindergarten and first grade reading recovery specialist with the Campbell County School District, took a vacation with her husband to Guatemala.... more
B-T Forest eyes revision to allow domestic sheep to graze
Jonathan Ratner wasn’t pleased to read a public notice that the Bridger-Teton National Forest is looking to change how it protects wild bighorn sheep from catastrophic diseases spread by domestic sheep.... more
Park Co. declared ’Second Amendment Preservation County’
The elected officials said they were passing the resolution “to defend the rights and liberties of the citizens of Park County.” ... more
National PAC sought challengers to Cheney
Club For Growth’s presence in the state is a signal that the race may not be limited to the current candidates facing Cheney, state Sen. Anthony Bouchard, R-Cheyenne, and state Rep. Chuck Gray, R-Casper.... more
Physicians ask Cheyene schools to keep mask mandate
A group of local health care providers is asking Wyoming’s largest school district to keep its mask mandate in place through the end of the year.... more
Federal policy could undermine Wyo cattle ID legislation
The policy may erode a recent victory by Wyoming’s ranching industry that earned them more autonomy over tracking their animals, and industry groups are watching developments closely. ... more
After hunters kill 874 sage grouse hens, Wyo’s hunt questioned
Hunters shot at least 874 greater sage grouse hens in Wyoming last year, prompting a state grouse team member to question the wisdom of allowing a hunt of the imperiled species.... more
Drought monitor: 95% of state abnormally dry or worse
Ninety-five percent of Wyoming is abnormally dry or worse, according to a nationwide drought monitor map released Thursday.... more
Jackson, Teton County agree to spend money on housing
The final go-ahead will come when town and county budgets are approved in June.... more
Anti-semitic, threatening email sent to UW staffer
An anti-Semitic and potentially life-threatening email was received by an University of Wyoming employee at 8:32 a.m., Thursday, April 29.... more
Lawsuit filed over death of DOT employee
Shirley Samuelson died in August when a street sweeper she had just parked on Highway 22 in Teton County rolled downhill and ran her over. She was 62.... more
Balow rejects ‘critical race theory’ teaching
Wyoming’s education chief has joined a vocal faction of Republican lawmakers across the country in expressing distaste for teaching public school children about how racism has shaped American society since the country’s founding.... more
Housing director wants to spend $13 million on housing 'crisis'
April Norton, director of the Jackson/Teton County Housing Department, wants to spend $13 million to build homes and expand housing programs in the upcoming fiscal year.... more
Cheney, Trump at odds again
Monday saw three public exchanges between Cheney and the former president.... more
ITC in Gillette chosen for $52M CO2 capture project
Gov. Mark Gordon announced Friday afternoon that the ITC, attached to the Dry Fork Station coal-fired power plant about 10 miles north of Gillette, will host one of two large U.S. Department of Energy CO2 capture research projects.... more
The speciality string
National forest looks to traditional transportation in backcountry work.... more
Analysis: Four Wyoming takeaways from new census numbers
As the Mountain West experienced a population boom over the last decade, Wyoming’s growth lagged, according to U.S. Census numbers released this week, with the Equality State among the slowest-growing states in the country. ... more
Management Council weighs change that could limit public access
The Wyoming Legislature’s Management Council, which sets priorities for the body, is weighing a policy change that would give committee chairs the authority to decide whether the public can participate in their meetings remotely. ... more
‘Love it and leave:’ The choices facing Wyoming’s youth
In the fall of 2017, then Hot Springs High School senior Stormy Cox wrote of her home state: “In my heart I would love to stay in Wyoming … The majority of my family lives in Wyoming. It’s hard to leave all of them behind and be on my own. If I could stay in Wyoming and still pursue my dreams I would.”... more
Portraits of Wyo youth: Six visions of a future in the state
Wyoming stands at the crossroads of a permanently shrinking coal industry and a historic budget crisis as its dominant conservative politics move further to the right on several issues.... more
Q&A: Locked up kids and government transparency in Wyoming
From now until the 2022 legislative session, the Joint Judiciary Committee will study the state’s handling of kids who run into legal trouble with an eye toward improving Wyoming’s juvenile justice system. ... more
Former legislator arrested in trafficking sting, pleads not guilty
A former Wyoming legislator from Green River entered not guilty pleas to misdemeanor charges of solicitation of prostitution and interference with a peace officer Friday afternoon.... more
Man convicted in mother-in-law’s death murder
A jury on Friday convicted a Casper man of murdering his mother-in-law in 2019.... more
Gordon plans to avoid cuts in next state budget
Gov. Mark Gordon’s office will develop the bulk of the next state budget without cuts thanks to improved revenue projections released last week, an official said Friday.... more
Democratic leaders say session lacked vision
Senate Minority Leader Chris Rothfuss and House Minority Leader Cathy Connolly, both D-Laramie, held a Facebook Live forum Thursday night to discuss the general session, which concluded in early April.... more
Wyoming, Idaho among bottom five for first COVID shots
Wyoming and Idaho boast two of the lowest rates of residents who have received their first shots of a COVID-19 vaccine.... more
New Makerspace opens in Sublette
Pinedale Wyrkshop, a new Makerspace based in Pinedale, opened its doors this week to anyone seeking access to best-in-class tech tools so they can take their creative projects to the next level.... more
Lummis brings Wyoming's K-12 budget issue to Senate
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis recently invited Wyoming State Sen. Affie Ellis, R-Cheyenne, to Washington, D.C., so she could testify about the importance of the energy sector to Wyoming’s schools before the Banking Committee hearing on April 20.... more
Gillette family burns COVID in effigy
A 23-foot body made of chicken wire and cloth hung outside the Daly Ranch.... more
Gordon, Barrasso blast BLM for lack of 2Q sale
Gov. Gordon and Sen. Barrasso both addressed the lack of the Bureau of Land Management's lack of a second-quarter lease sale.... more
Wyoming joins new lawsuit against Biden administration
Gov. Mark Gordon announced on April 22 that Wyoming has joined yet another lawsuit against the Biden administration – this one focusing on President Biden’s executive action taken to seek cutting greenhouse gases.... more
Wyoming energy sector testifies in D.C.
The Cowboy State’s vital energy sector made its case known on Capital Hill last week as Sen. John Barrasso invited some of the state’s energy experts to testify in front the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, of which Barrasso is a ranking member, before the senator himself made his own impassioned statements.... more
Taylor wins at welding competition
A Big Piney native gave the Eastern Wyoming College chapter of SkillsUSA a huge boost during the Welding Fabrication Competition held in Casper earlier this month.... more
Meeks, B3 competes for $50K prize
Big Piney native Perri Meeks and his B3 co-founder Brayton Sanders of Evanston are one of nine University of Wyoming student-led teams that competed for the John. P. Ellbogen $50K Entrepreneurship Competition on April 23-24.... more
Active COVID cases dipped in county
As the Sublette COVID-19 Response Group dissolves having fulfilled its purpose as directed by the county commissioners, COVID-19 updates will solely be conducted by Public Health going forward.... more
School district presents preliminary budget
Budget season is around the corner – a busy time for school district business offices. The Sublette County School District No. 9 Board of Trustees got a preliminary look at next year's figures from Amy Anschutz, the district's chief financial officer, at the April 20 regular meeting.... more
BPHS duo chosen for Girls State
Autumn Wright and Britney Jones were both chosen for their outstanding achievements within their school and community to represent Big Piney during the 79th annual session.... more
Sublette COVID-19 Response Group diverted to Public Health
As daily active COVID-19 cases once again flatten throughout the county, the Sublette County Board of Commissioners addressed numerous items that were implemented a year ago to combat the incoming pandemic at its meeting on April 20 inside the Pinedale Library’s Lovatt Room.... more
Game and Fish proposing antelope license reductions
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is proposing to reduce antelope license quotas for the 2021 hunting season.... more
PAPO's annual planning materials are online only
The Bureau of Land Management Pinedale Field Office will not hold a physical meeting in 2021 for the Pinedale Anticline Project Area wildlife, air, water and operator planning sessions.... more
CFD shatters 2-day ticket sales record
Cheyenne Frontier Days set a two-day cumulative sales record with 104,619 tickets sold across all events for this summer’s festivities.... more
Study shows mule deer migration habits
A recent study led by the University of Wyoming showed a multitude of factors shaped the timing of birth in mule deer. ... more
UW reduces restrictions for summer semester
UW announced last month its fall semester would be at full capacity.... more
Sublette unemployment rate decreased in March
Seasonally adjusted unemployment numbers in Wyoming remained steady while Sublette County’s unemployment rate fell in March from the previous month.... more
Health orders extended as Sublette's COVID cases rise
The two remaining statewide health orders in Wyoming have been extended to the end of the month while Sublette County’s surge in active COVID-19 cases continues.... more
State emerges from session with no long-term budget, ed solutions
The Wyoming Legislature entered the 2021 legislative session with a lofty agenda to cut education spending, stall revenue declines and guide a Wyoming economy battered by COVID-19 to a sustainable future.... more
April Students of the Month recognized
The Sublette County School District No. 9 recognized four Students of the Month for April.... more
Bennett, Day to represent Big Piney at Boys State
Duo from Big Piney chosen for annual Boys State Session.... more
County P&Z to hear numerous business plans
Family business – both new and expanding – are behind several of the applications to be reviewed by the Sublette County Planning & Zoning Commission on Thursday, April 22.... more
Library to host pronghorn picnic this week for Earth Day
Earth Day is the perfect time to take a good look around and see where the outside world and our wildlife need extra attention.... more
BLM to conduct prescribed burn outside LaBarge
The latest burns are part of a multi-year project.... more
DEQ gets request for work on North Cottonwood Creek
The temporary increase in turbidity is associated with proposed stream restoration.... more
Frontier Days goes with all-country lineup
The day after announcing this summer’s event will take place at full capacity and without masks, Cheyenne Frontier Days announced the 2021 Frontier Nights entertainment lineup.... more
County awarded $60k in WCF grants
The Wyoming Community Foundation awarded the Sublette Local Advisory Board $60,067 to causes that serve the residents of Sublette County.... more
Lawmakers weighing study of public lands transfers
On the final Friday of the 2021 Legislative Session, members of the Joint Agriculture Committee met to map out goals for the coming months.... more
Gordon optimistic, disappointed in last Legislative Session
Gordon made statements and answered questions shortly after the 66th Wyoming State Legislative Session came to a close.... more
Vaccine registration available as Sublette COVID cases rise
There are 18 active cases of COVID-19 in Sublette County with individuals isolating in Big Piney, Bondurant, Boulder, Daniel and Pinedale, Public Health Nurse Manager Janna Lee said in an update on April 9.... more
How the Wyoming Senate killed Medicaid expansion, again
The Wyoming Senate Committee on Labor, Health and Social Services voted March 31 to kill a House-sponsored effort at Medicaid expansion.... more
Examiner's interview with Sen. John Barrasso
After speaking to students at Pinedale Elementary School on March 29, Sen. John Barrasso took time to answer a few of the Examiner’s questions. Here is a transcribed version of that conversation.... more
Construction to cause delays near Daniel
Project to include US 189 and Wyoming Highway 354 near Daniel.... more
County P&Z approves firearms service as home business
The Sublette County Planning and Zoning Commission did not hear an anticipated zoning-change request to develop a rural retreat near the Hoback Rim at its March 18 meeting.... more
P&Z commission puzzles over road standards
Unanswered questions lead group to table for next meeting.... more
Significantly more deaths in Wyoming last year
According to records kept by the Vital Statistics Services, a subsidiary of the Wyoming Department of Health, there were significantly more deaths in 2020 along with fewer recorded births, marriages and divorces.... more
Sublette takes hit in latest economic summary report
The quarterly report highlights the state’s economic condition based upon multiple factors.... more
Just the facts to be allowed in Rammell trial
The judge strongly advised the gubernatorial candidate to consider hiring an attorney.... more
Four from Sublette chosen for UW Trustees' Scholars Award
Hibbert, Jones, Jean and Noble all chosen.... more
RHCD tables recommendation on management partner
A motion to table a management recommendation by the SCRHCD passed, 4-1.... more
UW returning to 'traditional' atmosphere for fall semester
The university determined to make the announcement now, as opposed to June, after the latest university board of trustees meeting.... more
Big Piney, Marbleton election filings close
It’s shaping up to be an interesting Election Day for both Big Piney and Marbleton with a couple of challengers filing by the two towns’ respective deadlines last week.... more
Residents warned about IRS and Social Security scam calls
The Sublette County Sheriff’s Office has recently received multiple calls about IRS and Social Security scam calls.... more
First bear sightings bring awareness tips
Yellowstone officials just spotted their first grizzly bears of 2021.... more
Runaway teen found safe
The Pinedale teenager who was reported missing and considered an endangered runaway while visiting Mesa, Arizona, with his family last week has been found safe.... more
Rock Hounds club prepares for annual gem conventions
The Sublette County Rock Hound Club’s (SCRH) first meeting of 2021 was Saturday, March 13, at the Sublette County Fairgrounds with 41 members attending.... more
Wyoming's longest-serving elk feeder pitches for wildlife
There’s a simple formula to the day’s start for John Fandek, the longest-serving feeder on Wyoming Game and Fish’s 22 winter elk feedgrounds.... more
County gets grant for Teton Pass planning
A federal program intended to improve access to public lands has granted $300,000 to study transportation, access points and wildlife-vehicle collisions on Teton Pass.... more
COVID spread slows, vaccines open to those 18 and older
Registration remains available online.... more
Historical county divisions in Wyoming
When Wyoming Territory was formed in 1868, there were no major towns and the majority of citizens lived along the very new transcontinental railroad across the south.... more
DOI plans fossil fuel forum for March 25
The Department of the Interior just announced a virtual forum set for Thursday, March 25, as part of its “comprehensive review of the federal oil and gas program called for in Executive Order 14008.”... more
Big Piney students place at Wyoming State Science Fair
Students were interviewed virtually through a secure portal system from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. that day.... more
Historic snowstorm brings Wyoming to standstill
Southeastern Wyoming was at a standstill Monday in the aftermath of a record-breaking storm that left 30 inches of snow on Cheyenne.... more
Fishing for the Fight chosen as donation recipient
Fishing for the Fight has been named the 2021 Smiles for Life campaign local recipient by Pinedale Dental.... more
Historic avalanche season tests volunteer responders
It’s a deafening hush that surrounds the backcountry... more
Roberts joins G&F Commission
Roberts had applied years ago for the position and is happy to be on the commission.... more
Suspect in toddler death held without bond
Wyatt Dean Lamb, a suspect in the death of 2-year-old Athian Rivera, appeared March 4 in Laramie County District Court in relation to a domestic violence incident from February 2020.... more
Lawsuit seeks to halt health orders
A lawsuit against Park County’s public health officer and the governor seeks to immediately stop all current state COVID-19 health order restrictions.... more
Bousman applauds new program for direct aid to counties
The National Association of Counties applauded the inclusion of a new program to provide additional direct aid to public lands counties as part of the American Rescue Plan Act.... more
Political boundaries before Wyoming
Sublette County encompasses mostly the Upper Green River Valley and the Upper Hoback River. ... more
Addi Cunningham wins with her Peace Poster
Big Piney Middle School seventh-grader Addi Cunningham recently won the local Peace Poster Contest sponsored by the Pinedale Lions Club.... more
21.4 pounder wins 2021 Derby
Calm conditions and good fishing welcomed participants in the 2021 Big Fish Winter Derby at Fremont Lake over the weekend.... more
Gov. Gordon to remove statewide mask requirement
Gov. Mark Gordon announced this morning that Wyoming will remove its statewide mask requiremtn and allow bars, restaurants, theaters and gyms to resume normal operations starting Tuesday, March 16.... more
COVID vaccine registration opens further
Registration for COVID-19 vaccinations has opened into Phase 1C in Sublette County.... more
The naming of Sublette County
In March of 1824, a group of 11 young men crossed South Pass entering the Green River Valley.... more
Disney family's Jackson Hole property subject of legal battle
Trustees for two grandchildren of Walt Disney have taken the first steps leading to development on Fall Creek Road property that is the object of a legal battle.... more
Wyoming's senators vote against Biden energy pick
Sen. John Barrasso cast a vote against President Joe Biden’s pick for energy secretary Thursday over concerns former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s leadership would “crush” Wyoming’s economy built on fossil fuels.... more
Sublette natives among Gordon's latest appointments
Gov. Gordon’s selections included three nominees and appointees with Sublette County roots.... more
Gordon rolls back more health restrictions
Health restrictions at personal-care services completely eliminated.... more
Biden administration stops half-million-acre Wyoming oil and gas sale
President Joe Biden’s Jan. 27 order to pause oil and gas leasing on federal lands hit Wyoming as the BLM postponed the auction of 383 parcels covering almost half a million acres.... more
Students of the Month honored
Gentri Greene, Maggie Allmon, Kenneth Demers and Reba Penfield all recognized.... more
New insights gleaned from Wardell Bison Trap study
Artifacts make up a central displace at the Green River Valley Museum in Big Piney.... more
Health Department warns against vaccine scams
The Wyoming Department of Health is asking residents to be vigilant about scammers promising expedited access to a COVID-19 vaccine in exchange for personal information over the phone.... more
Sublette uneasy about district consolidation bill
House Bill 0077 would reduce Wyoming's unified school districts to no more than 24 within the state – effectively making each county its own district for the majority of the state.... more
Mitchell honored for 20 years of commitment
She received an engraved crystal timepiece for her service.... more
Lease moratorium labeled as 'crushing', 'illegal' and 'necessary'
Wyoming reacts to pause on new oil and gas leasing made by Biden administration.... more
Delegation drafts different energy protection bills
Sens. Barrasso and Lummis, Rep. Cheney all bring legislation to the table for Wyoming amid energy lease moratorium.... more
SCSD9 posts state's fourth-best graduation rate
Dept. of Education anticipates budget crippling after seventh-straight year of graduation growth.... more
Wyoming leaders criticize pause to federal oil leasing
The order came as one of the Biden Administration's first acts.... more
Fan club ushers grizzly 399 plus 4 on trek toward den
People flock to see grizzly 399 before hibernation.... more
Judge stalls Wyo’s repayment of $47 million in oil lease revenue
Wyoming can first appeal Judge Ronald Bush’s decision to vacate the auctions.... more