Tag: Wyoming Lifestyle Magazine

MADE IN WYOMING: Petit Secret Chocolate

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visit our website & read the current issue

We are thrilled to team with the Wyoming Business Council to feature a Wyoming First business every week on our blog! Wyoming First is a program that promotes Wyoming member businesses. Visit their website (click here) to learn more about this service — and if you are a Wyoming business who’s not a member, be sure to inquire about membership! There are many benefits!

This week we are featuring Petit Secret Chocolate of Jackson, WY

Laurance Perry, Petit Secret Chocolate  PO Box 6536  Jackson, WY 83002  307-690-7483  lauranceperry@gmail.com

www.getmorechocolate.com

Laurance Perry brought to America a love for all things chocolate.  She wanted her two children to experience the same truffle-filled chocolate Easter Eggs she enjoyed growing up in her native Belgium.

Easter is traditionally a time of chocolate in Belgium and children are delighted with large chocolate eggs filled with chocolate goodies. Unable to find something like this here, Laurence took matters into her own hands, purchased a large, hollow egg mold; she melted chocolate and cast her first chocolate eggs. Encouraged, she cast tiny Easter characters and filled the eggs. Wrapped in a white satin bow she showed the eggs to friends and the ensuing demand created a chocolate frenzy; Petit Secret Chocolate (or PS Chocolate) was born in 2002.

With her mother’s help and Belgian chocolate recipes, Laurance created solids in unique shapes and mouthwatering Belgian truffles filled with buttery ganaches.  She soon captured the taste buds of those frequenting the bazaars and farmer’s markets of Jackson Hole where Laurance lives and works. She soon outgrew her kitchen operation and converted a barn on her property into a modern and efficient kitchen and business.

Though she appreciates her new and efficient operation, Laurance still makes her Belgian chocolate the old fashioned way; one at a time.  Each batch is carefully hand-crafted and tested by her impeccable Belgian chocolate background and memories of that perfect chocolate from the old country. Laurence is content to keep her business comfortably small, and leaves the business end to her husband Paul.  She is proud of her two sons, Will and Jack, contributors to PS Chocolate, and occasionally is even a bit surprised they still have a passion for hand-crafted Belgian chocolate.

Petit Secret Chocolate does take custom orders, as well as company logo brands.  They do handcrafted molds to accommodate any request of shapes and sizes from cowboy boots to bears.

PS Chocolate can be purchased via their web site at www.getmorechocolate.com.  The chocolate is truly worth the cost. The chocolates are 100% handcrafted and PS Chocolate does not use any additives or waxes.  These delicious concoctions are 100% Belgian Chocolate.

 

Black Dog Animal Rescue of Cheyenne Wins A Car!

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  • visit our website & read the current issue

    Looking to bring a new family member home? Throughout November, BDAR is offering 50% off the adoption charge for black or mostly black dogs – it’s Back in Black month!

    We’re very excited to share the news about Black Dog Animal Rescue, Cheyenne & Southern Wyoming’s outstanding animal rescue service that connects canine companions with their loving ‘forever homes.’ These folks work tirelessly for their cause, and we’re thrilled to share the news about their recent accomplishment!

    Black Dog Animal Rescue (BDAR) was one of two organizations to win a brand new vehicle from Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good Program on October 31, 2013. The program showcased five non-profit organizations each day for 50 days on Facebook. The car that BDAR chose was a 2014 Toyota Sienna van. Black Dog Animal Rescue will use this vehicle to transport shelter dogs across Wyoming to the comfort and safety of volunteer foster homes and move those dogs to mobile adoption sites where they tend to be more visible to the public.

    Congrats, BDAR – well deserved! Are you perhaps searching for a companion to bring home? Here are two of the residents at BDAR that are currently searching for a loving forever home…

    Sydnie is the white Pit Bull Terrier and Victoria is a Lab mix. They are both available for adoption through BDAR — visit www.bdar.org. Victoria’s adoption fee is 50% off due to our Back in Black promotion which runs the entire month of November. It is 50% all black or mostly black dogs.

ART IN WYOMING:

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from “The Road Not Taken,” www.landerartcenter.com

LANDER ART CENTER:  “The Road Not Taken,” National Juried Show, November 1 – December 7 — FREE and open to the public

LANDER ART CENTER:  Around Town — Native American Art Show to Open This Friday

Public reception: Friday, November 8

6-8pm at the Middle Fork, 351 Main Street
November is Native American Heritage Month and is set aside to honor and recognize the significant contributions of the first Americans. The Lander Art Center has teamed up with Native artists from Fremont County to celebrate Native American heritage through a unique collection of local artists’ work.

This collaborative art show represents Native artists mainly from Fremont County. The show is a diverse and dynamic collection of work that showcases the many talents of artists in our communities.  Ceramic artists, beaders, graphic artists, and a eclectic group of painters are showcased in multiple venues around town. The Middle Fork Cafe, Lander City Hall, and the Lander Library will all be hosting Native artwork throughout the month of November.

Appetizers provided. Drinks for purchase from Middle Fork.

The community is encouraged to attend and meet the artists!

Brochures will be available at each location to provide information on the artists and the locations where artwork can be found.

SHERIDAN:  SAGE Community Art Center Welcomes Two November Shows

SAGE (Sheridan Artist’s Guild, Et al) is pleased to present two November shows at their SAGE Exhibit Gallery, located at Sheridan College Main, 171 No. Main St. 

The Sheridan Parks & Pathways national juried art show features art depicting Sheridan’s public walkways and parks.  The show’s juror is artist Danna Hildebrand, former Sheridan resident and college art instructor.

In conjunction with the Parks & Pathways show will be SAGE’s Annual “Artly Altered Furniture” fundraiser.  Various pieces of furniture are decorated and donated by SAGE members and sold via silent auction.  Proceeds benefit SAGE & the Sagebrush Art Center.

The Parks and Pathways Artists’ Reception & Awards Ceremony will be November 7th, 5:30-7:00 pm.  Both shows, as well as the “East Meets West in Wyoming” “stock show” at the Sagebrush Art Center,  end on November 29th.

This project is made possible by a grant from the Wyoming Arts Council.

 

GILLETTE:  Studio Share Gillette Offers Studio Space for Photographers

Are you a photographer? Do you know one who needs studio space? Studio Share Gillette has a cost effective solution for you! Visit www.facebook.com/studiosharegillette to learn more.

CASPER:  Nicolaysen December Events

 

MADE IN WYOMING: North Wind Fiber Arts

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We are thrilled to team with the Wyoming Business Council to feature a Wyoming First business every week on our blog! Wyoming First is a program that promotes Wyoming member businesses. Visit their website (click here) to learn more about this service — and if you are a Wyoming business who’s not a member, be sure to inquire about membership! There are many benefits!

This week we are featuring North Wind Fiber Arts of Lusk, WY

Lynne Boas, North Wind Fiber Arts  PO Box 206  Lusk, Wy 82225  307-340-0286  northwindfiberarts@yahoo.com

www.northwindfiberarts.com

Lynne Boas started as an art major in college and then became interested in microbiology. Her goal was to make a living creating art; however, the bills needed to be paid so she pursued a degree in bacteriology from the University of Idaho.  She has worked in research and development for about 16 years.  Lynne left the fast pace corporate world and moved to Wyoming to pursue a more relaxed lifestyle to explore and create fiber art.

Lynne started painting silk scarves after a friend sent her a beautiful scarf as a birthday gift.  It was not hand painted but stamped.  She started thinking about silk scarves and what could be done with them.  As luck would have it, scarves again became a popular clothing accessory.  Lynne learned about the art of silk painting and started dabbling.  She then took a silk painting class from an accomplished silk painter in the area and is still learning new techniques. There are so many things she would like to try, and she really enjoys the colors and the feel of the silk.

Lynne finds silk to be a fascinating fiber.  Not only are silk scarves a beautiful enhancement to an outfit; they are warm in the winter and cool in the summer.  The shimmering appearance of silk is due to its triangular prism-like structure of the fiber which refracts incoming light at different angles producing different colors on silk that is not dyed.  During the Roman Empire, silk was sold for its weight in gold.

Her inspiration comes from the colors she sees in the environment, which includes everything from rocks to what people mix together and wear.  She does like splashes of bright colors to brighten things up, especially in the winter.  Sunsets and rises, and the color variations in bodies of water, greens to dark blue, etc., are other great inspirations.

She is expanding her product line to include wool products, which she has been working with for over 20 years.  Working with the multiple mediums is why the company is called “fiber arts.”   Lynne also spins, dyes, weaves and knits different wools and other fibers when time allows.

At present, she does not have a catalog and her website is under construction.  She is also working on selling her scarves on Etsy.  For now, contact Lynne via email or phone.  Lynne’s scarves start at about $10.

You will be able to experience this beautiful wearable art form at this year’s Cowboy Christmas event in Douglas, November 23, 2013. 

 

 

 

MADE IN WYOMING: Herbadashery

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visit our website & read the current issue

We are thrilled to team with the Wyoming Business Council to feature a Wyoming First business every week on our blog! Wyoming First is a program that promotes Wyoming member businesses. Visit their website (click here) to learn more about this service — and if you are a Wyoming business who’s not a member, be sure to inquire about membership! There are many benefits!

This week we are featuring Herbadashery of Casper, WY

Barb & Eli Dichlich, Herbadashery  123 S Fenway  Casper, WY 82601  307-265-0036  800-888-0338  herbadasher@bresnan.net   www.herbadasher.com

Barb & Eli started the Herbadashery in 1991 as a retirement project. With the help of friends and family, it has become a special place to relax and enjoy the quality products, plants, and catering that has defined who they are.

Although they are a smaller company in size, Herbadashery is big on unique products and customer service.  They strive to help their customers succeed in all of their growing and landscaping projects.  The Herbadashery is a place to visit, rest, and gain new ideas. Good friends once called this “an oasis in Casper.” Herbadashery’s goal is to make their customer’s visit informational and enjoyable.

Over time, some of Herbadashery’s favorite products have been born out of necessity. Such is the story of Pine Ridge products.  Melissa Armstrong, a young mother, living on a ranch in Kaycee, Wyoming, ran out of a brand name BBQ sauce that her family liked. Like so many resourceful ranch folks, she took what she had in her kitchen and put together something she thought might be good. Her family liked it and that was the beginning of Pine Ridge BBQ and Dipping Sauces. Living on a busy ranch, she made the decision to pass on her dream in order to keep up with a growing family.

Herbadashery has used these products in their catering business and sold them in their gift shop for years with great success. In July 2006, Herbadashery purchased the proprietary rights to manufacture Pine Ridge BBQ and Dipping Sauces and Sweet Mustard.  They maintain the exact recipes and procedures in manufacturing these fine products in their FDA kitchen at the Herbadashery in Casper, Wyoming.

Herbadashery’s Pine Ridge products are sold wholesale and retail.  They can be purchased on their web site at www.herbadashery.com, by phone, or purchased in their gift shop.  Their products are also sold in many retail stores, which are listed on their website.  Retail prices for the Pine Ridge BBQ sauce and Dipping sauces can run from $6.95 for 18oz up to $155 for a 5 gallon container.  The Pine Ridge Sweet Mustard pricing is from $4.50 for 12oz to $34.95 for a gallon container.  If you are interested in carrying sauces, contact them directly for wholesale pricing.

Herbadashery is a family business; and when you work for the Herbadashery, you become family.

 

 

 

 

ART IN WY: Karen McLain, Sage Community Art Center & More

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artists Jamie Barron & Sonja Caywood

SHERIDAN:  Sagebrush Community Art Center Presents “East Meets West in Wyoming”

Sagebrush Art Center hosts “East Meets West in Wyoming,” paintings by Sonja Caywood & Jamie Barron.  This show features a common theme in two artistic styles:  

Jamie Barron, born in North Dakota, currently resides in New York City, where she earned her MFA in Fine Art.  Barron says of her work: “I like to engage the viewer by using familiar iconography from everyday life experiences such as barns, cows and horses but changing them just so subtle to make one stop and look.  Sometimes using glitter or glazes to create an ethereal image. I find one can easily transplant his or herself into my paintings and remember, dream or reflect. “

Jamie Barron, “Blue Moon Beauties”

Sonja Caywood was born in Sheridan and attended Sheridan College.  Caywood explains: “Raised in a ranching family, I deeply value the land and the livestock of the Bighorn Mountain region.  It’s essential for me to record this vestige of ‘the west,’ as subjects once thought to be permanent fixtures of our landscape disappear.  I strive to express my affection for my subjects in painterly strokes of color with an emphasis on light.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sonja Caywood, “Golden Opportunity”

The exhibition runs October 11th- November 16th at the Sagebrush Art Center (located in the Historic Train Depot, 201 E. 5th St. in Sheridan). An Opening Reception and artists’ talk was held on October 11. This project is supported in part by a grant from the Wyoming Arts Council, through funding from the Wyoming State Legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Karen McLain, “Freedom on Top of Mountain”

KAREN MCLAIN:  Capturing the Beauty of Wyoming’s Wild Horses

We appreciate Arizona artist Karen McLain sharing her love of Wyoming and its wild horses with us – she has tireless captured our state and its wildlife in paint and the result is exquisite. The following is a description from Karen of her most recent trek through Wyoming…

This was the fifth summer that I have gone to visit the wild horse ranges, but the first year that I made it to Wyoming. The trip included stops at the Little Book Cliffs, Sand Wash Basin, McCullough Peaks and Pryor Mountain areas.  The beauty of Wyoming was very inspiring and the horses were ones that I wanted to visit for many years. I traveled with my 1972 Shasta trailer, “The Paint Box” and stayed out on the ranges. (Although some areas required truck and tent camping), I had a very comfortable month-long painting adventure.

The McCullough Peaks horses were rugged and handsome, a  classic wild horse. Even tough it was windy, I did get some paintings done while I was there. The range is easy to access and the location as the gateway to Yellowstone is easy for visitors to be able to get to on a day trip.  After spending three nights at McCullough Peaks, I headed up to the Pryor range.  The beauty just blew me away. The open meadows, Tea Cup  and Mystic Waterhole  areas allowed for wonderful photo and video opportunities. It was a real treat to spend time with Cloud and his band. I know I will be back next year.

 

“McCullough Peaks Paint”

“Fishing Yellowstone”

On the way home to Arizona, I spent a few days in Yellowstone. While I was there, I was able to get two buffalo paintings done, even though I had to move three times while working on one of them. The buffalo clearly had someplace to go!

Wyoming is a painter’s paradise, and I look forward to my next visit!

“Stallion Bunch”

“Wild Rainbow”

“Thundered Into Our Hearts”

“When They Got to the Top”

 

 

 

 

 

MADE IN WYOMING: Dragon Lady Teas

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visit our website & read the current issue

We are thrilled to team with the Wyoming Business Council to feature a Wyoming First business every week on our blog! Wyoming First is a program that promotes Wyoming member businesses. Visit their website (click here) to learn more about this service — and if you are a Wyoming business who’s not a member, be sure to inquire about membership! There are many benefits!

This week we are featuring Dragon Lady Teas of Jackson, WY

Dragon Lady Teas — Dee Elle Bupp   PO Box 3101  Jackson, WY 83001  307.200.4717   dragonladyteas@gmail.com   www.dragonladyteas.com

Dee Elle has a love of herbs and a love of people; with that in mind she created a bridge between the two with her drinkable art.  After years of tinkering with herbs & making concoctions for friends & family, a friend suggested she try selling her teas at the farmers market.  They were such a hit she sold everything at the first market!

Dragon Lady Teas are organic and Dee has high standards.  Lady’s Blend, which is her oldest is light, sweet and green tasting.  Other blends are Chill Me Out, Guardian, Peace Tea, Belly Rum, Be Well, Navigator, Chai, and Morning Dew.  The ingredients and a little about the tea can be found on the web site at www.dragonladyteas.com. Dee loves doing custom blends, and creates them for businesses & individuals. Who wouldn’t want their very own tea blend?

Currently Dragon Lady Teas can be ordered direct by phone or on the website, which takes you right to ETSY for online purchasing, or a number of local grocers.  Price ranges range from bulk pricing, beginning at around $4/ounce and jars start at $8.

As a family business, Dee’s husband helps when he’s not working his other job & her kids work all of the events. Dee is a plant person and it is clear to her that she is here to make delicious teas. This is much more than just tea, it’s love in a cup! 

 

MADE IN WYOMING: Nena Trapp Photography

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read our new Fall 2013 issue — with our new design!

We are thrilled to team with the Wyoming Business Council to feature a Wyoming First business every week on our blog! Wyoming First is a program that promotes Wyoming member businesses. Visit their website (click here) to learn more about this service — and if you are a Wyoming business who’s not a member, be sure to inquire about membership! There are many benefits!

This week we are featuring Nena Trapp Photography of Cody, WY

Rowena Trapp, Nena Trapp Photography PO Box 471 Cody, WY 82414   307-250-8312    trappnena@yahoo.com www.nenatrappphotography.com

Nena Trapp’s interest in photography started when she was young and thumbing through the pages of Life and Look Magazines, which transported her to new places. As a self-taught photographer, Nena judged her work against the photos in the magazines that captured her as a child. She actually became involved with photography as part of her job documenting cultural sites as an archaeologist. This was great for Nena, as it allowed her to incorporate her passion for history.  Photography is a way for Nena to document the things and places related to history. Nena gradually added an artistic flair to her work and that is where she is today.

Nena’s photographs are sold as prints or other photo-based items, such as puzzles, coasters, cards, etc. Although she has done portraits in the past, she is currently concentrating on nature and cultural heritage subjects. The photos are sometimes put on canvas and metal, which are very striking.

Nena Trapp Photography is only sold on her website at this time: www.nenatrappphotography.com. The prices range from less than $20.00 to over $200.00.

MADE IN WYOMING: 7Fold Spice

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read our new Fall 2013 issue — with our new design!

We are thrilled to team with the Wyoming Business Council to feature a Wyoming First business every week on our blog! Wyoming First is a program that promotes Wyoming member businesses. Visit their website (click here) to learn more about this service — and if you are a Wyoming business who’s not a member, be sure to inquire about membership! There are many benefits!

This week we are featuring Sevenfold Spice of Casper

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sevenfold Spice:  JD Dotzler Casper, WY 307-251-5424 sesvenfoldspice@yahoo.com www.sevenfoldspice.com

JD Dotzler received his certificate from culinary school in June 2005, and then apprenticeship in a restaurant as a chef’s assistant at a local country club.  The head chef at the country club stressed that he wanted specific dishes seasoned exactly the same every time.  JD suggested that they blend ingredients to make a base seasoning that would always be the same, to which Chef Kevin said, “What a great idea!”  That was JD’s first spice blend.  

JD also has family and friends with food allergies. He realized that there weren’t any “all natural” seasonings on the market, so he created what is now his “Master Blend.”  Those same friends and family members encouraged JD to offer his spice blends to the general public.  In 2010, Sevenfold Spice was registered as a trade name in the State of Wyoming.

Sevenfold Spice is a family business; his brother assists him with the marketing, and JD handles the development and production end of the Sevenfold Spice product line.

Sevenfold Spice acquires specialized herbs and spice powders from Savory Spice Shop in Denver, CO.  He takes bulk ingredients and blends them to specific recipes in a commercial kitchen in Casper.  The spices are MSG free, gluten free and have no preservatives.  Sevenfold Spice is pleased to offer an “all natural” product for now, and will continue to look into an organic line of spices.

Sevenfold Spice prepares custom blends as well!  Requests for “salt free” come in frequently and Salt Free Master, Salt Free Habanero and Salt Free Garlic blends are regular inventory items.  They offer two value packages: “A Best of the Best Pack” containing the top five selling spice blends; and “A Grillers Choice Pack,” which offers three blends and two grill rubs.  Customers can order any combination of spices and rubs from their website at www.sevenfoldspice.com.  Sevenfold Spice also offers free shipping on all orders over $20.

Sevenfold Spice blends and rubs are offered at 8-10 retail outlets in Casper and Douglas. They can be purchased online at www.sevenfoldspice.com.   The price range for 4 oz blends and rubs ranging from $6 to $8 per bottle.

 

Our promise…..       “Making food taste great… Naturally”

 

Currently Sevenfold Spice has ten spice blends and seven spice rubs.

Sevenfold Spice is all natural all the time.

 

PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA

 

WY Foodie: New Recipe, Bubbly Basics + Lovejoy’s in Laramie

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visit our website — the fall issue will be out in just a few days!

photo by Deb Smith

Want to learn about the basics of champagne? Kara of The Sweet Sommelier in Newcastle shared some basics of the bubbly on our Wyoming Weddings blog, but we thought it would make interesting reading for any beverage connoisseur… click here to read more! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A new recipe — thanks to the Wyoming Beef Council!

Spicy Grilled Ribeye Cap with Avocado-Mango Salad

Total Recipe time: 30-35 minutes

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

1 to 1-1/4 pounds beef Ribeye Cap Steaks

Salt and pepper

Rub

Juice of 1 lime

1 medium jalapeño pepper, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 clove garlic, minced

Avocado-Mango Salad

1 large mango, sliced

1 medium avocado, sliced

4 thin slices red onion

1/4 cup queso fresco, crumbled

Instructions

  1. Combine 1 teaspoon lime juice and remaining rub ingredients; reserve remaining lime juice for Avocado-Mango Salad. Press the rub evenly onto beef steaks. Place steaks on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 9 to 13 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, covered, 9 to 14 minutes) for medium rare to medium doneness, turning occasionally.
  2. Meanwhile, prepare Avocado-Mango Salad. Combine mango, avocado and onion in medium bowl; sprinkle with cheese and drizzle with reserved lime juice, tossing gently to coat. Season with salt and black pepper, as desired.
  3. Serve steaks with Avocado Mango Salad.

 

Lovejoy’s Bar & Grill in Laramie

Looking to enjoy a fine Laramie dining establishment pre- or post-game this football season? Check out Lovejoy’s Bar & Grill in Downtown Laramie, where they specialize in such deliciousness as burger + beer specials, gigantic salads, Mexican food smothered in yummy-ness, and much, much more… Catch a train whizzing by the windows and enjoy the historic flavor of Laramie’s railroad past…

Visit them online at www.elmerlovejoys.com

 

WY Foodie: Recipes + Il Villaggio Osteria

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visit our website & read the current issue

A new recipe — thanks to the Wyoming Beef Council!

Orange-Chipotle Skirt Steaks

Total recipe time: 30 minutes

Makes 4 to 6 servings

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds beef skirt steak, cut into 4 to 6-inch pieces

2 medium oranges, divided

2 cups chopped tomatillos (4 to 5 small to medium)

1/2 cup chopped red onion

2 to 3 teaspoons minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/8 teaspoon salt

Marinade

Juice of 1 medium orange

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from chipotle peppers)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine Marinade ingredients in small bowl. Place beef steaks in food-safe plastic bag; turn steaks to coat. Close bag securely and marinate in refrigerator 6 hours or as long as overnight, turning occasionally.
  2. Grate 1/2 teaspoon peel from 1 orange. Cut this orange and half of remaining orange into segments. Chop segments into 1/2-inch pieces. Combine orange peel and segments, tomatillos, onion, chipotle peppers, cumin and salt in medium bowl; cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Cut remaining 1/2 orange into wedges; reserve for garnish.
  3. Remove steaks from marinade; discard marinade. Place steaks on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 7 to 12 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 8 to 12 minutes) for medium rare (145°F) to medium (160°F) doneness, turning occasionally. Carve steaks diagonally across the grain into thin slices; season with salt, as desired. Serve with tomatillo salsa. Garnish with reserved orange wedges.

Test Kitchen Tips

To cut orange segments, cut off both ends of orange with paring knife. Stand orange on 1 cut end and slice vertically (top to bottom) to remove peel and white pith in strips. Follow curve of orange with paring knife to remove as little flesh as possible. Cut each segment free by slicing down on both sides of surrounding membranes.

TABLE MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS:  Wine + Campari = Yummy

I saw this on Table Mountain Vineyards‘ Instagram & had to share… Here’s how Patrick made this summer heat-beater:  3 parts light red wine/rose’; 3 parts tonic; 1 part Campari. YUMMO!

 

JACKSON: Il Villaggio Osteria Offers An Italian Dining Twist

3335 West Village Road, Teton Village  307-739-4100  visit their website

In February 2008, the Fine Dining Restaurant Group brought a taste of Italy to Jackson Hole with the opening of Il Villaggio Osteria. The Osteria is located inside the Hotel Terra, the state’s first LEED certified property and only the fifth in the United States. With its 12-seat wine bar and eight seat salami bar, guests can enjoy a glass from our extensive wine list or watch as imported meats and cheeses, sourced from the country’s finest purveyors, are hand-sliced to order. House made pastas, sausage stuffed olives, beautiful wines and exquisite entrees round out the extraordinary multi-course menu.

images courtesy Fine Dining Group, Jackson Hole

For more Wyoming dining listings, visit our new online dining guide!

 

FROM THE PARKS: Closure for Peregrine Falcon Area Lifted

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Closure Lifted After Peregrine Falcon Chick Fledges
from Baxter’s Pinnacle Nest

 

MOOSE, WY — The public closure at Baxter’s Pinnacle and Descent Gully near the mouth of Cascade Canyon was lifted on Thursday, August 15. This area closure went into effect on May 1 to protect an active peregrine falcon nest. Due in part to the protection provided by this wildlife closure, the adult falcons successfully reared and fledged one chick.

The Baxter’s Pinnacle peregrines experienced little to no human interruption during their incubation and chick-rearing phases thanks to active support from the park’s two authorized concessionaires for guided climbing services, and to the cooperation of Jackson Hole’s climbing community that demonstrated responsible behavior and respected the closure. Peregrines are cliff nesters and can be sensitive to human disturbance, especially during their nesting period. Falcons are quite territorial and will often abandon nests to defend their territory, which leads to nest failure and low reproductive success.

Decimated by the harmful effects of the pesticide DDT, it is believed that peregrine falcons were virtually eliminated from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) by the 1960s. In 1980, efforts to reintroduce peregrine falcons to Grand Teton National Park were initiated in conjunction with similar efforts elsewhere in the GYE and western United States.  Between 1980 and 1986, 52 fledgling falcons were released at several sites in the Teton Range; seven to eight birds were released each time. After sufficient recovery was achieved, peregrines were delisted from the endangered species list in 1999. However, peregrine falcons remain a species of concern in Grand Teton National Park where only four nesting pairs exist. The Baxter’s nest area was first discovered in 2010, and it has produced one chick in three of the last four years (2010, 2011, and 2013). One other Teton site fledged two chicks this year.

The public closure served a second purpose: to also protect climbers from the peregrines as they will defend their nest site by dive-bombing perceived intruders. The peregrine falcon is among the world’s fastest birds, flying at 40-55 mph and diving at more than 200 mph while defending a territory or striking prey. This posed a safety risk to climbers who may have been knocked off their rock ‘perch’ and injured.

Seasonal and temporary closures for wildlife protection are common in Grand Teton to protect both wildlife and park users. Entering a posted wildlife closure is a violation that can result in a citation and fine under the code of federal regulations.

ON THE CALENDAR: Buffalo’s Longmire Days, Worland’s BBG & Bluegrass Fest

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BUFFALO:  Longmire Days August 17-18

A&E’s No. 1 original hit drama series “Longmire” has launched into its second season with more than 4.3 million viewers, the series is one of A&E’s most successful shows to debut. To celebrate the series – and the fact that “Longmire” best-selling author Craig Johnson hangs his cowboy hat here in Johnson County Wyoming – the Buffalo, Wyoming, Chamber of Commerce will host its second-annual “Longmire Days” on Aug. 17-18.

“Longmire” is based on Johnson’s New York Times best-selling Walt Longmire Mystery novel series (“A Serpent’s Tooth,” Johnson’s 9th Longmire novel, was released in June.) The series weaves the story of a dedicated, charismatic yet emotionally troubled small-town sheriff who seeks out the truth as secrets, betrayal and murder swirl in fictional Absaroka County, Wyoming. Johnson, who lives in the tiny community of Ucross, Wyoming (population hosting a grand total of 25 residents), uses Buffalo and Johnson County characters and locations to breath life into Longmire’s hometown of Durant, Wyoming, and Absaroka County.
Johnson will again be a huge part of the celebration, with book signings and participation in many of the planned events. But new this year will be guest appearances by many of the actors from the hit show, including Adam Bartley (The Ferg); Cassidy Freeman (Cady Longmire); Bailey Chase (Branch Connally); Katee Sackhoff (Victoria ‘Vic’ Moretti); and Robert Taylor (Sheriff Walt Longmire). A tight-knit cast, all have all agreed to attend “Longmire Days” to help celebrate the success of the show – and be a part of the community of Buffalo and Johnson County, the “real life” setting for the series. Actor Lou Diamond Phillips (Henry Standing Bear) will also attempt an appearance, if his schedule allows.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Saturday, August 17:

8-10am – Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast in the Square –
$5 per person
8-11am – Book Signing and Celebrity Autograph Session
Crazy Woman Square
10-11am – Press Conference
11am-noon – Basque Dancers in the Square
12-2pm – Softball Game “Cowboys vs. Indians” – Minimum
$5 donation – at Prosinski Park
2-5pm – Poker Run begins at Clear Creek Brewery
2-5pm – Indian Pow-Wow in the Square
5pm – Craig Johnson Book Signing at the Occidental
7-11pm – FREE Street Dance with Gary Small & the Coyote
Bros. – Downtown Main Street

Sunday, August 18:

9am-noon – Skeet Shooting at Buffalo Gun Club Shooting
Range – $100 per person, all included
10am-noon – Oldies 105.9 Horseback Ride from Paradise
Ranch – $200 per person, includes horse and lunch –
limited availability
11-1 – Indian Pow-Wow in the Square
Noon-2pm – A Cowboy Action Shoot demonstration at the
club range near the Buffalo Airport
1pm – Craig Johnson Book Signing at the Library
2pm – 18-hole golf outing at the Buffalo Golf Club – $200
per person with prizes for winners
6pm – Bartley (“The Ferg”) will host a live comedy/
karaoke event at the Occidental Saloon – $10 cover

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
image by David Huber Photography, Worland

WORLAND:  Pepsi Wyoming BBQ Championship & Bluegrass Festival, August 16-17

Check out their website for lots of info on this great event – and read the article in our current issue! We also included a feature on this event in our bookstore travel magazine, Wyovore. Lots of BBQ deliciousness and for those with a love of bluegrass — you can’t beat this event! World class musicians from around the country come to participate. This is one big event!

Hunting Prep, Laramie Main Street News, Art in Sheridan…

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NATIONAL ELK REFUGE MAKES PREPARATIONS FOR BISON & ELK HUNTING SEASONS

image from National Elk Refuge website

Wildlife managers are preparing for two upcoming hunting seasons on the National Elk Refuge. Hunting programs on the Refuge are used as a management tool to achieve optimum herd size as determined through a cooperative effort between the National Elk Refuge, Grand Teton National Park, and Wyoming Game & Fish Department managers.

The 2013 bison hunting season on the National Elk Refuge will begin on August 15 and run through January 12, 2014. Bison hunting licenses are issued by the Wyoming Game & Fish Department. A Refuge–specific bison permit is required and is provided with the State license. Individuals who have not already applied and been selected for the 2013 season are not eligible to hunt bison this season.

The Refuge bison hunting season will be comprised of 12 hunt periods of varying length, with a number of week-long breaks of non-disturbance incorporated into the season. This is intended to increase the success rate for hunters since bison, along with other animals, may learn to avoid an area with continued hunting pressure. Wildlife managers are using the hunt period structure as a tool to achieve herd objectives.

The 2013 Refuge elk hunting season will run from October 12 through December 15 and will consist of 10 consecutive hunt periods. Persons interested in hunting elk may begin applying for Refuge–specific permits beginning Wednesday, August 14. Applications for elk permits must be submitted electronically by September 25 to be entered into a computerized random draw. The results of the drawing will be posted on the application web site by September 26. 

Application for National Elk Refuge elk hunting permits is done in cooperation with the Wyoming Game & Fish Private Lands Public Wildlife Access program. Hunters may initially apply for only one hunt period per hunt unit and must already have a valid Wyoming elk license to enter the electronic drawing. Elk hunters attempting to fill two valid licenses on the Refuge during the same hunt period do not need to apply for two Refuge permits. 

Bison and elk hunting information, including general information, application procedures, regulations, maps, weapons restrictions, and access can be found on the National Elk Refuge’s web page at www.fws.gov/refuge/national_elk_refuge. Printed copies of Refuge regulations can be picked up in Jackson at the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center (532 N. Cache Street), Wyoming Game & Fish Department (420 N. Cache Street), or the National Elk Refuge Administrative Offices (625 E. Broadway Avenue). Printable versions (PDF) of the regulations and maps are available on the web site. 

Persons traveling on Refuge roads, including Curtis Canyon and Flat Creek roads, are encouraged to familiarize themselves with hunt boundaries and be aware that hunters may be in the area.

LARAMIE MAIN STREET UPDATE

Mural by Travis Ivey 

Thanks to over 160 backers, Laramie Main Street reached their fundraising goal for the Laramie Mural Project before their deadline of July 21st and then, the donations kept coming in! When all was said and done, they raised just short of $20,000!!!

mural plan, by Travis Ivey

They have already begun to use those donations to expand the Laramie Mural Project. Check out the new murals going up downtown at 3rd and Kearney, behind the Big Dipper at 111 Ivinson and in the alley behind the Curiosity Shoppe. 

Be sure to mark your calendar for an event like you’ve never seen in downtown Laramie! Move in Weekend, Aug. 23 – 25 they will be hosting the Downtown Mash Up featuring the Gem City Car Classic and Laramie Fiber Arts Festival. This is a joint event between the University of Wyoming Athletic Dept., Laramie Main Street, DLBA and the fiber art galleries downtown.

Ever wondered what was above your favorite downtown businesses? Now is your chance to find out! Join Laramie Main Street on Friday, August 16 from 3 to 7 p.m. for a self-guided tour of the lofts and apartments downtown. Everything from cozy one bedroom units to expansive family lofts.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 the day of and can be purchased with cash, check or credit card from the Main Street office at 207 Grand Ave. or by calling 307-760-3355.

The Upstairs/Downtown tour is designed to promote residential space and living in the historic district as well as raise funds for the Laramie Main Street Alliance.

EVANSTON — ROUNDHOUSE FESTIVAL

Stop by the Roundhouse Festival this weekend in Evanston at the Roundhouse to purchase your 2013 HO collectors car. These will be available at the this weekends Roundhouse Festival. This year’s car commemorates the Lincoln Highway’s 100th anniversary!

SHERIDAN — SAGE Community Art Center Welcomes New Exhibits; Sheridan’s DDA Plans 3rd Thursday Fest for August

The next 3rd Thursday Festival will be held August 15! Join in for all the fun, food and music!

Check out the next round of great art exhibits at SAGE Community Art Center!

 

 

WY FOODIE: New WY Beef Recipe + Meet the Chef

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A new recipe — thanks to the Wyoming Beef Council!

Carnitas-Style Beef Tacos

Total recipe time: 45 minutes

Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

4 beef flat rron steaks (about 8 ounces each)

18 small corn tortillas (6 to 7-inch diameter)

 

Toppings

Minced white onion, chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges

 

Marinade

1 cup prepared tomatillo salsa

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

 

Avocado Salsa

1-1/2 cups prepared tomatillo salsa

1 large avocado, diced

2/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1/2 cup minced white onion

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1/2 teaspoon salt

 

Instructions

  1. Combine marinade ingredients in small bowl. Place beef steaks and marinade in food-safe plastic bag; turn steaks to coat. Close bag securely and marinate in refrigerator 15 minutes to 2 hours.
  2. Remove steaks from marinade; discard marinade. Place steaks on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 10 to 14 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 12 to 16 minutes) for medium rare (145°F) to medium (160°F) doneness, turning occasionally.
  3. Meanwhile combine avocado salsa ingredients in medium bowl. Set aside.
  4. Place tortillas on grid. Grill until warm and slightly charred. Remove; keep warm.
  5. Carve steaks into slices. Serve in tortillas with avocado salsa. Top with onion, cilantro and lime wedges, as desired.

MEET THE CHEF: Matty Melehes, Sous Chef

Ever want to look into the life of a professional chef? We interviewed Matty Melehes, JH Fine Dining Restaurant Group Sous Chef, to see what makes him tick…what his favorite eats are…and his must-have recommendation for your kitchen library…

WLM: What sparked your desire to become a chef?

MM: What sparked the desire was the idea that it’s a job that can be done anywhere in the word; the ability to have a trade but also travel. I also just have a passion for hospitality. I love dining and the whole dining experience. I love surprising people with dishes. I love presenting someone with a dish, seeing them enjoy what I’ve created, leave happy and return because they trust my work and what I do. To me, it’s all about the small victories.

WLM: What’s the one thing you enjoy making the most?

Fish, or really anything that comes from the ocean, holds a special place in my heart. The possibilities are endless. You can choose one genre you’d like to base your dish in and there are so many things you can do within that genre.

WLM: If you’re sitting down to enjoy your favorite meal + imbibement, what would you pick?

My ultimate meal would be enjoying a bottle of the Joie Rose (from Canada) while sitting on the dock of the fisherman’s wharf in Granville Island, Vancouver, eating BC spot prawns raw. Basically, you just rip them in half, suck the head and squeeze the meat out. They’re only in season for a few weeks and they are amazing.

WLM: Do you have a favorite go-to cookbook at home? Or are your at-home recipes all inside your brain?

When I’m home, I don’t follow recipes. What I enjoy about cooking is taking what I have, however limited, and coming up with new creations. My favorite culinary book, however, would definitely be The Flavor Bible by Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg. It’s an encyclopedia of ingredients that includes a wide range of ingredients from around the world and what pairs well with them. I like the book because it gives you the foundation of the ingredient and from there you can create a dish from the ground up yourself.

Thanks Matty Melehes, JH Fine Dining Group’s Sous Chef for the interview! I have to say, I’m going to take his word on the raw spot prawns… But those I’ve talked to said that he was spot on — pun absolutely intended. Thanks to JH Fine Dining Group — owners of establishments including (but not limited to!) Bin 22, Rendezvous Bistro, Q Roadhouse, Il Villagio Osteria, The Kitchen & Bistro Catering in Jackson…

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