Category: Wyoming Travel and Tourism

NEWS FROM THE PARKS: National Elk Refuge Celebration, GTNP Looking for Youth for Summer 2014

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Visit our website & read the current issue – Spring 2014 issue will be coming out soon!

image from National Elk Refuge website

National Elk Refuge:  NER to Celebrate the National Wildlife Refuge System

The National Elk Refuge is pleased to offer an opportunity this month to celebrate several significant dates in the history of the National Wildlife Refuge System. From Friday, March 14 through Sunday, March 23, displays and naturalist presentations at the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center will focus on the conservation efforts of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The events listed below will run daily throughout the ten–day celebration and are free of charge. The Visitor Center is located at 532 N. Cache Street in Jackson and is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.

President Theodore Roosevelt established the nation’s first wildlife refuge on March 14, 1903 at Pelican Island National Bird Reservation in Florida. Since then, the National Wildlife Refuge System has grown into a vast network of habitats that benefits wildlife, provides outstanding outdoor experiences, and protects a healthy environment. To show how large the national wildlife refuge system has grown, National Elk Refuge naturalists will display a large U.S. map in the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center, showing the location of all the refuges (over 560) throughout the country. Visitors will be asked to place a pin on the national wildlife refuge closest to their home. On March 24, the refuge receiving the most pins will be announced on Facebook and Twitter.

Guests can learn more about the establishment of the National Wildlife Refuge System through two displays set up in the small theater located on the top level of the Visitor Center. The first exhibit will be a time line showing significant dates throughout the history of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with a brief description of each event. The second display will highlight the 80 year history of the Federal Duck Stamp program. President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp Act, popularly known as the Duck Stamp Act, on March 16, 1934. Originally created as a license required for hunting migratory waterfowl, Duck Stamps have a much larger purpose today. They serve as a vital tool for wetland conservation, with 98 cents out of every dollar generated by the sales going directly to purchase or lease wetland habitat within the National Wildlife Refuge System. The sale of stamps is not restricted to hunters; many non–hunters collect the beautiful stamps and purchase them to support wildlife conservation. Refuge naturalists will share images of some of the previous Duck Stamps from throughout the years.

Visitor center staff will run a video entitled “America’s Darling: The Story of Jay N. Ding Darling” continuously during the celebration to honor the conservation achievements of the man that designed the first Federal Duck Stamp. In addition to his Duck Stamp art, Darling authored two books and twice won the Pulitzer Prize for cartooning, in 1923 and again in 1942. He used his satirical pen to promote issues of conservation and to bring national attention to environmental concerns. On Sunday, March 16, naturalists will set up a table with art supplies and reference books outside of the theater, allowing children and adults to design their own Duck Stamp.

More information on the National Wildlife Refuge System can be found at www.fws.gov/refuges/about/index.html. To inquire about the Visitor Center events, please call 307.739.9322.

National Park:  Youth Conservation Program Recruits Wanted!

Grand Teton National Park Recruits for 2014 Youth Conservation Program

MOOSE, WY —Grand Teton National Park is recruiting participants for the 2014 Youth Conservation Program (YCP). Funding for this youth employment opportunity comes from the Grand Teton National Park Foundation through generous contributions by their donors. Applications must be postmarked by March 14, 2014

The YCP is a summer program for high school students, ages 16 to 19. The 2014 program will span ten weeks from June 16 through August 21. This marks the ninth year that Grand Teton has conducted the program, and trail supervisors hope to enroll 15-25 short-term positions during this recruitment period.

Participants must be at least 16 years of age by June 16, and live locally as housing is not provided. Applicants must also be United States citizens and students in good standing. Other qualifications include good team skills, a willingness to learn about Grand Teton National Park and its trail system, and the ability to work at a physically demanding job which may involve lifting 30-40 pounds. Wages for participants in the YCP program are set at approximately $11.00 per hour.

YCP enrollees develop an understanding of National Park Service (NPS) conservation ethics as they assist with critically-needed maintenance and rehabilitation on park trails and pathways. Participants work alongside NPS crew leaders and become familiar with NPS stewardship goals, while learning essential trail maintenance skills. YCP participants will work 30-50% of their time with several of the other park divisions (i.e. Science and Resource Management, Interagency Fire, Interpretation, and Visitor and Resource Protection). Students will also meet experts in all aspects of public lands conservation.

During the course of their day, YCP participants may answer basic visitor questions and serve as ambassadors for the park as they complete project work on some of the most visible, and most impacted, park trails. Most of the work will be focused on projects dealing with rehabilitation of trails and backcountry areas through activities such as brushing, hazard tree removal, and construction of water bars and drainage swales. In addition to the project work, environmental education programs and several recreational opportunities are also offered.

As an extension of their mission to support innovative projects that add value to Grand Teton National Park, the Foundation provides funding for salaries, work boots, work pants, tee-shirts, and free transportation to and from Jackson for YCP participants. For more information about this youth program and how to contribute to future YCP activities, or other Foundation programs, contact Leslie Mattson by email at leslie@gtnpf.org or phone 307.732.0629.

To obtain an application or get further information about the 2014 YCP, please call Stacy Myers in Grand Teton National Park at 307.739.3379, or write to YCP Program, GTNP, Drawer 170, Moose, WY 83012.  Applications are also available online at http://www.nps.gov/grte/supportyourpark/ycp.htm

 

Wilson, WY’s Answer to the Winter Doldrums – by Liberty Lausterer

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visit our website & read the current issue — Sprinter issue (Spring + Winter) will be coming before long!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liberty Lausterer, our guest blogger, is back with another look at life in Wyoming from a new resident’s eyes. We greatly appreciate learning what our state looks & learns like to someone new – always keeps the perspective fresh!

 

Wilson, Wyoming’s Answer to the Winter Doldrums

by Liberty Lausterer

As a newcomer to Wyoming I have paid close attention when someone tells me what they do to make it through these long, cold winter months. The advice has been wide and varied: take up a winter sport, learn a new hobby like knitting, take full advantage of your Netflix membership, read those books that have been on your list for eons, and be sure to take a trip to a warmer climate in April or May (a.k.a. “Get the hell out of Dodge.”). This is great advice but you may have noticed that many of these and other winter activities are solitary ones. In a sparsely populated state that is beset by hostile weather for much of the year, how does one keep from growing lonely and isolated? Where do you go in subzero temperatures to connect with other people?

Wilson, Wyoming’s answer to the winter doldrums is the Stagecoach Bar. Over the past seventy years the Stagecoach Bar has been that rare place where people from all walks of life are brought together by music and dancing. It’s the place people could stay connected to each other through snow and ice, despite frigid temps and unrelenting winds. On any given Sunday evening one can see wranglers, hippies, bikers, cowboys, ski bums, millionaires, dudes, and curmudgeons on the dance floor together. The story of how a bar became the glue that holds together an unlikely mix of people has been told by filmmaker Jennifer Tennican in her documentary “The Stagecoach Bar: An American Crossroads.”

If you are interested to learn how the history of a bar could mirror the history of an entire region (Jackson Hole) and become a powerful unifying force, Tennican’s film is worth watching. But, more importantly, if you long for an experience of authentic community in your neck of the woods, then this film will provide inspiration and a reason to head to your local watering hole.

Tennican’s documentary will be screened at the Center for the Arts in Jackson on March 14th and the WYO Theater in Sheridan on May 24th.  It will also air on Wyoming PBS in May, and on dozens of other PBS stations across the country.

MADE IN WYOMING: Strasser Log Furniture

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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 Strasser Log Furniture of Cheyenne

Mike Strasser, Strasser Log Furniture 10121 Branding Iron Cheyenne, WY 82009   307-349-9741   strasserfurniture@yahoo.com www.strasserlogfurniture.com

Strasser Log Furniture is a family owned and operated furniture, crafts and gift workshop in Cheyenne. Mike Strasser started looking for log furniture sites and magazines featuring log furniture and decided he could build it himself. In 2009 he began making log furniture as a hobby. It has since become a growing business in which he builds beautiful, high quality, handcrafted products made from Wyoming Pine at an affordable price. Mike’s goal is to be building log furniture full time when he retires from his career in the Wyoming Army National Guard.

Each log is hand peeled, hand sanded, and then dried into a custom creation here in Cheyenne. Hand peeling helps preserve the pine’s beautiful grain, rustic knots and unique color variation. Because the logs are dried naturally they may feature worm tracking, cracks and checks, which add to the natural beauty of the wood and also gives each piece its own character. All orders for Strasser Log Furniture are custom orders.

Mike is looking for retail shops to sell his work at this time. Mike is a native Wyoming citizen. His parents and grandparents were in the timber industry, and Mike has kept that tradition alive with Strasser Log Furniture. Instead of harvesting timber for communities, Mike harvests trees for the household by putting log furniture in the price range that Wyoming residents can afford. Strasser Log Furniture products vary from coasters, candles, pet beds, full size beds, bunk beds, end tables, book shelves and custom military awards. Cost range from $10 to $1500. Contact Strasser Log Furniture directly via phone, email and their website regarding questions and to discuss orders.

WY FOODIE: New Recipe from WY Beef Council + Bin22 Jackson

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Looking for a fresh idea for dinner tonight? Check out this recipe from our friends at the Wyoming Beef Council! We greatly appreciate all the hard work they do promoting the advantages of beef – a Wyoming agricultural staple and the income for many of our friends & neighbors!

Mediterranean Beef and Salad Pita

Total recipe time: 25 to 30 minutes

Makes 4 servings

 

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

1 medium red bell pepper, chopped

4 cups chopped romaine lettuce

1/3 cup crumbled herb-flavored feta cheese

1/3 cup prepared regular or reduced fat non-creamy Italian dressing or other vinaigrette

1/4 cup Kalamata or ripe olives, chopped

4 pita breads, toasted

 

Instructions

  1. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add ground beef and bell pepper; cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into 3/4-inch crumbles and stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Pour off drippings.
  2. Add lettuce, cheese, dressing and olives to beef mixture; toss to combine. Top pitas with equal amounts of beef mixture.

Test Kitchen Tips

Cooking times are for fresh or thoroughly thawed ground beef. Ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F. Color is not a reliable indicator of ground beef ‘doneness.’

JACKSON:  Bin 22

Bin22 in Jackson Hole reflects the sophisticated energy of New York City and the rustic elegance of the Italian countryside, all in a quaint space in the heart of Jackson. This cozy downtown addition flaunts a diverse selection of great value wines, craft beers and regional spirits unparalleled by any shop in the Valley. Adjacent to the libations lies a small grocer featuring homemade pastas, pizza dough, cheeses, salumi, ice cream and more. Venture beyond the specialty grocer and bottle shop to the intimate wine bar area and outdoor deck, open for lunch and dinner daily. Order from the extensive wine, beer and cocktail menu while enjoying Spanish and Italian style tapas and delectable desserts. Belly up to one of the community tables and get lost amidst the rustic wood surroundings or stop for a quick visit with the cheese monger pulling fresh mozzarella at the open kitchen window. Sip Wyoming Whiskey from the state’s first legal distillery, poured straight from the cask behind the marble bar. An experience for the senses, Bin22 offers a contemporary take on an old world culinary experience.

visit online  |  facebook  |  twitter  |  instagram @bin22jh

 

International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race Kicks Off TONIGHT!

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We dare you to say the name 10 times fast – or even the acronym, IPSSSDR — I always get hung up on S #2. 🙂 This beyond awesome, annual event finds dog teams mushing across the western half of Wyoming, stopping in small towns along the way, and bringing together a whole lot of folks excited to see this wintry spectacle. The event kicks off TONIGHT, January 31, in Jackson (see event details below!) – and continues through February 8 with stops detailed below… Stay tuned to their website & Facebook page for pictures, details, updates & more!

Photos in this blog post taken from IPSSSDR Facebook page

The excitement of the 19th annual IPSSSDR will be unleashed tonight at the Town Square in downtown Jackson, Wyoming. It’s easy to find the starting line if you listen for the enthusiastic howls and excited barking of more than 300 sled dogs. And they are ready to run!! Prepare yourself for a full evening of events as this week shifts into high gear.
The first teams leave the starting chute at 6:30PM so come early to take advantage of the unique opportunities this race offers. You can meet and greet the mushers, see the lovely Rebecca Podio, Miss Wyoming 2013, watch video of previous races, and, on this cold night, enjoy some hot food and drink. You can even win prizes at the PEDIGREE® tent. Then pick out a choice spot to watch the teams as they race through the streets of Jackson on their way to the Snow King Resort. After you’ve seen the two and four footed athletes head down the block and out of sight, catch the free shuttle START BUS from Town Square to the Snow King Center. At the finish line you can congratulate the mushers and maybe even pet a dog or two, then watch the torch light parade as it snakes down the mountain (see photograph), the Jackson Hole Air Force participate. And if that isn’t enough, there will be dazzling fireworks, too.


The race continues for the next eight days, covering 330 miles with stops in Alpine, West Yellowstone, Lander, Pinedale, Big Piney/Marbleton, Kemmerer, and, crossing the final finish line February 8, in Evanston. Follow the race right here on Facebook or visit the official race website atwww.wyomingstagestop.org for exclusive coverage, photos, and current standings.

MADE IN WYOMING: Tom Balding Bits & Spurs

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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 Tom Balding Bits & Spurs of Sheridan, WY

Tom Balding, Tom Balding Bits and Spurs  655 Riverside  Sheridan, WY 82801  307-672-8459  sales@tombalding.com   www.tombalding.com

After leaving the fast-paced life in California, Tom Balding moved to Sheridan, Wyoming.  Being an avid outdoorsman he was drawn to the area after a visit to Sheridan.  Tom admired the breathtaking scenery and limitless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.  He takes pleasure in supporting his community and his days are full running the business, spending time with family and being involved in the community; however, he also takes time to enjoy the beautiful outdoors that captured him in the beginning.

Tom has always been drawn to working with metal. In 1984, a neighbor asked Tom to repair a broken bit — and that began his journey to Tom Balding Bits and Spurs.   The business began with Tom putting together scrap sailboat parts to create the first bit design.  He quickly learned through trial and error what was required of the bits in order to perform at the level his clients required.  Tom decided to pursue bit and spur crafting full time and the process was refined into the high quality craftsmanship that Tom Balding Bits and Spurs is known for today.

For 15 years Tom ran the company as a one man operation.  In 1998, a multiple winner of American Quarter Horse Association World Championships began using Tom’s bits.  Word got around the western horse circuit; Tom sold his house and built his shop and began hiring his team, which he calls a small family.

Tom works closely with professional riders during the development of new products to make certain of their performance, and feedback is considered for the final designs.  It can take up to a year before the final product is offered to the general public.

Almost all bits and spur orders are custom orders.  They have a list of parts, finishes, and extras for their bits and spurs and people choose exactly what they want.  People can order products via the website (www.tombalding.com), phone (307-672-8459), or email (sales@tombalding.com).  The base price on bits is $125 and on spurs $240. They can become as elaborate, and in turn more expensive, as the customer desires.

Along with the famous Tom Balding Bits and Spurs, customers can find belt buckles, bracelets, earrings, scarf slides, key rings and money clips on the web site and at the store.  Tom and his team pay just as much attention to detail for these items that they do with the bits and spurs.

They were recently featured on three segments of Discovery Channels “How It’s Made” —  one segment on spurs, the second on bits, and the third on belt buckles. Their reputation and customer base is worldwide.

Tom Balding Bits & Spurs offers tours Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm MST, which includes a walk through of each product’s process.

Valentine’s Day Fun in WY – Singing Flowers in Laramie, Wintry Fun in Green River…

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Laramie’s Fresh Flower Fantasy Brings Harmony to V-Day

In Laramie and looking for something fun & unique for your sweetie on Valentine’s Day? Fresh Flower Fantasy offers singing valentines! Have your beautiful roses or other flowers delivered by some very talented musicians – and you can even name your tune! Delivery charges are tiered, from the non-musical variety to a selection from the list below…or add your own for just a little extra! Details — call 307-742-7616!
A list of the selections you can choose…or name your tune for just a little extra: 
“1, 2, 3, 4” by the Plain White T’s — “It Only Takes a Moment” from the musical Hello, Dolly — “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz — “Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars — “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri — “You’re Still the One” by Shania Twain — “Mine” by Taylor Swift — “Lucky” by Colbie Caillat and Jason Mraz (duet only) — “I Can’t Help Falling in Love With You” duet originally by Elvis — Duets or solos available, unless marked otherwise!
 

Green River — 2014 Crystal Classic Winter Festival Offers Wintry Fun, Food & Heat for the Whole Family! Say wha?! Read on for more…

Be sure to check our the Crystal Classic Winter Festival in Green River, where you can enjoy fun of the chilly — and hot — variety… Confused? Here’s a list of what you can enjoy:  ice carving competitions — Snow Boot Softball Tourney – 5K Walk/Run — fireworks at Expedition Island — ice bar — Ice Cube Hunt — soup cook off & s’mores stations — live music to heat you up… just to name a few activities! Check out the Sweetwater County Tourism website for a full schedule of events – and head to Green River to get your winter adventure on!

C.J. Box Releases “Stone Cold”

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I was thrilled to receive my copy of C.J. Box’s newest book, Stone Cold, published by Putnam. The 14th novel in Box’s acclaimed series about Wyoming game Joe Pickett, will publish on March 11. C.J. Box is a long-time resident of Wyoming – I was beyond thrilled to interview him for our Sprinter 2012 issue of WLM! A graduate of Kelly Walsh High School in Casper, and a reporter for the Saratoga Sun, C.J. Box discusses topics that are sympathetic to the west and Wyoming. “My goal is that with every book, readers are exposed to different points of view on controversial issues that they may not have known before,” Box said during our 2012 interview.

Critics call Box’s 2013 national bestseller Breaking Point “explosive” (South Florida Sun-Sentinel), “superlative” (The Cleveland Plain Dealer), “thrilling” (Publishers Weekly) and “exceptionally well-told” (USA Today).  Stone Cold puts Joe Pickett in the middle of an investigation of a mysterious new resident…

“In a distant part of Wyoming, a very rich stranger has settled in and built a virtual fortress for himself and his rather menacing staff. Located in the remote Black Hills of Wyoming, this grand estate poses a number of mysteries… Joe Picket, still officially a game warden, but now mostly a troubleshooter for Wyoming’s controversial Governor Rulon, is assigned to find out what the about the mystery man is. But as Joe investigates,  he soon realizes there is more to the situation than he’d anticipated…” Putnam Publishers

Loved by readers across Wyoming, the nation and world, C.J. Box continues to capture and hold readers’ attention through his suspenseful stories. Be sure to reserve your copy of Stone Cold at your favorite store!

 

 

 

Gain Free Entry into Grand Teton National Park on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

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MOOSE, WY — Grand Teton National Park will waive entrance fees on Monday, January 20, 2014 in recognition of the Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday. Grand Teton will join the more than 400 other units of the National Park System to acknowledge this special day as part of an effort to encourage families and individuals to visit and experience the wonders of their national parks. The entry fee for a private, non-commercial vehicle to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks normally costs $25 for seven days.

In addition to waiving entrance fees during this upcoming holiday, Grand Teton will also offer free admission on eight other days throughout 2014. The additional fee-free dates for the calendar year include:

•             February 15-17 (President’s Day weekend)

•             April 19-20 (National Park Week opening weekend)

•             August 25 (National Park Service’s 98th anniversary)

•             September 27 (National Public Lands Day)

•             November 11 (Veterans Day)

Weekend visitors to Grand Teton can enjoy winter activities from auto-touring, wildlife viewing and photography to cross-country skiing, skate skiing and snowshoeing across the snow-covered landscape.  A popular winter trail—that spans the unplowed Teton Park Road from Taggart Lake parking area to Signal Mountain Lodge—is open, and although not machine groomed, it is packed and tracked by previous skiers.

In addition to skiing, photography and wildlife watching, ranger-led snowshoe hikes take place each Tuesday, Friday and Saturday day at 1:30 p.m. from the Taggart Lake parking area. The two-hour guided walks offer an opportunity to learn about snow science and winter ecology. Previous experience is not necessary, and snowshoes are available for a rental fee of $5 for adults and $2 for children, 8 years or older. Reservations are required and can be made at 307.739.3399.

For complete information about winter activities in Grand Teton National Park or the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, go to http://www.nps.gov/grte/parknews/upload/Winter_Guide_14.pdf. Visitors can obtain winter season information about Grand Teton and the JDR Parkway in the following ways:

  •  The park’s website at www.nps.gov/grte.
  • The Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center on North Cache Street in Jackson.
  • The park’s information line at 307.739.3399, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday— Saturday.

MADE IN WYOMING: Wyoming Silvers

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visit our website & read the new Winter 13-14 issue of Wyoming Lifestyle Magazine

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!

These week we are featuring Wyoming Silvers of Upton, WY

Jill & Dennis Hendrix, Wyoming Silvers  PO Box 872  Upton, WY 82730  307-630-4166  wyomingsilvers@yahoo.com  www.wyomingsilvers.net

Jill & Dennis Hendrix began selling wholesale to gift shops and state parks across the country.  In 1997 they began direct sales and discontinued selling in the wholesale market.  Wyoming Silvers offers a diverse product line from jewelry to lariat baskets and clocks.  Jill and Dennis have received several fine art awards at art shows across the Midwest.

Wyoming Silvers creates art glass jewelry and some silver work.  Each piece is one-of-a-kind, blown, fused and torch-work glass.  Dennis creates lariat rope baskets and lariat clocks.  He also creates the custom name rings. Each one is made with the customer’s personalization on a comfort fit stainless steel band.  They are very reasonably priced, which includes the ring and all the personalization.

Normally, Wyoming Silvers’ products can be ordered via their website, however, this month they are in a kiosk in front of Christopher Banks and Kay Jewelers at Frontier Mall in Cheyenne.   Visit their web site or stop in at the mall, this is a great opportunity to own a handcrafted unique piece of art.

Wyoming Silvers recently received licensing to use the Bucking Horse and Rider logo on their line of personalized jewelry of rings, pendants or bracelets and happily will work with customer on custom pieces.  They are made to order, and if purchasing at their Frontier Mall kiosk in Cheyenne you can pick up your ring the same day.  Products ordered are generally shipped within 48 hours and the shipping is free to the customer.

This year they have added more sculptural glass work and gift items.  Blown glass ring holders and nifty purse holders are priced under $20.  In the jewelry line, Jill has added convertible necklaces that can be worn with or without the pendants.  These necklaces come with matching earrings.  All jewelry is gift boxed with the Wyoming first seal.

ART IN WY: WY Film & Cardinal Matters, Casper’s Corridor Gallery Event

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WYOMING FILM IN DUBOIS:  The 2013 Wyoming Short Film Contest winner, Mark Christian, is working towards a film shot in Dubois, Wyoming — Cardinal Matter — and they’re going to the people to help put together their budget! They’ve just got 13 days left and $12,000 at stake…can you help them out? Read on for a letter from Mark…

My name is Mark Christian, winner of the 2013 Wyoming Short Film Contest, held by the Office of Tourism and Wyoming Film Office and was awarded $25,000 to make a film to be shot in Wyoming. I am reaching out to you because we are trying to spread the word of the film across the state. The film will be shot 100% in the state of Wyoming showing off its beauty and providing work for its kind and hardworking people.

Our film, Cardinal Matter, is a feature length film about Austin, a US soldier on leave who has lost all his family. All he has left is his cousin, Hunter, but when he goes to visit he becomes the target of a deadly corporate cover-up. It’s a powerful tale illustrating the effects of large cities on rural America and we feel strongly about telling a good story through a compelling narrative that audiences of all demographics will enjoy.

Currently, our biggest obstacle is budget. We are about $12,000 shy of our goal on indiegogo. Myself and the rest of the Cardinal Matter crew are hoping you can share our campaign page/fb page to spread the word to your followers. I have provided a link to our facebook page as well as the Indiegogo campaign below.

I would be happy to answer any questions! You can reach me at cardinalmatterfilm@gmail.com.
Indiegogo Page:

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/cardinal-matter/x/65530

Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/cardinalmatter?ref=hl

“It’s Not about the Frame,” John Atherton

CASPER:  The Corridor Gallery Welcomes “It’s Not About the Frame”

The Corridor Gallery is excited to announce “It’s Not About the Frame” an upcoming show opening on December 13th at 7pm featuring a collection of Classic American Illustration. “It’s Not About the Frame” is a hand selected batch of 45 original American Illustration works from Fred Taraba’s collection. The Corridor has chosen to remove existing frames and show all work sans distraction. Knowing that most who purchase any of these works will opt to have framed themselves, The Corridor is offering a $100 framing certificate with each sale. The show’s flagship piece is an original illustration done for the cover of The Saturday Evening Post in 1945 by illustrator John Atherton. Given the popularity of The Saturday Evening Post, many of the less known cover illustrations have sold in excess of six digit figures. More intriguing than a potential price tag on this piece is the fact that John Atherton gifted it to a few women that saved Atherton’s life after a ski accident in 1945. John concluded his life saga by drowning in a fly-fishing accident shortly after at the age of 51. Every single piece of this collection reveals complex and interesting stories such as this.

About Fred Taraba

Fred Taraba is a dealer in original American illustrative artwork… that is, painting and drawings that have been created specifically for reproduction in books, magazines, advertisements and many other media. He has been in the business of caring for, writing about and selling original illustration since 1983. For sixteen years he was the Director of Illustration House, Inc. a New York City gallery and auction house specializing in the art form. Prior to that he spent eight years with The Society of Illustrators in New York as their Assistant Director/Curator and Librarian. The public are invited to the opening reception on the evening of Friday, December 13th at 7pm. There will be a cash malt beverage bar at hand and the Fred will be present for questions. “It’s Not About the Frame” will ONLY be showing through Sunday, December 15th. Please contact the Corridor Gallery or Fred Taraba with any questions. 

Event Details

Event: “It’s Not About the Frame” featuring 45 works of original illustrative artwork
Opening Reception: Friday, December 13th at 7pm
Admission Cost: Free Show
Showing Through: Dec 13th 7pm-midnight, Dec 14th 10am-5pm, Dec 15th noon-4pm
Accommodations: Cash malt beverage bar
Information: For more information, please contact The Corridor Gallery at (307) 333-7035, Reed at (307) 259-8001 or visit http://www.tarabaillustrationart.com/

 

LODGING: The Bentwood Inn B&B, Jackson Hole, WY

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For a beautiful and relaxing experience in Jackson Hole, visit The Bentwood Inn B&B in nearby Teton Village. A short drive from downtown Jackson, and a short drive to the slopes, The Bentwood Inn offers luxury and ambiance year-round. Outside Magazine called The Bentwood “One of North America’s best Ecolodges,” and as soon as you pull into the drive you’ll see why. We greatly enjoyed our own stay, with a lovely gas fireplace, spacious bathroom and a delicious night’s sleep.

Visit their website to learn more about The Bentwood Inn B&B – and when you’re planning your next Teton vacation, check them out!

SHOP WYOMING: Outlaw Rodeo Wear

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Looking for a great gift for the western & rodeo fan in your life? Check out Outlaw Rodeo Wear of Ten Sleep, WY! They have all sorts of great gear for men & women… Many samples follow, and be sure to visit their website as well as on Facebook, or give them a call at 307-760-2902 or 307-683-6052!

 

 

 

MADE IN WYOMING: Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company

Posted on by wlmeditor

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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 Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company of Jackson, WY

Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company, Dan Marino — PO Box 1770, 1325 S. Hwy 89, #110 Jackson, WY 83001 — 800-543-6325  or  307-733-7244 — www.jhbuffalomeat.com   info@jhbuffalomeat.com

The Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company is based in beautiful Jackson Hole, Wyoming.  It was established in 1947 as the “Jackson Cold Storage Company.”   After 50 years of business, Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company was purchased by Dan Marino.   Dan has always had an interest in hunting and game processing, which led him to the purchase and business of processing buffalo and elk.  The Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company was fairly small and he thought he could develop and grow the company.   With a strong core of long time employee, you could definitely say this is a family business.

For 60 years Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company has specialized in only the finest 100% buffalo and elk meat products. Their buffalo graze naturally on open range grasslands in a ranch setting.  Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company supports the ranching traditions of the Great American West.  They believe in raising animals on the open range; rejecting growth hormones, steroids and antibiotics; and, Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company works to preserve grasslands for the next generation.

Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company does take custom orders.  They have a retail store in Jackson, and many stores in Jackson carry their product.  There are also stores throughout Wyoming who carry Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company products.    Purchases can also be made on the website at www.jacksonholebuffalomeat.com ; you can also request a catalog or give them a call at 800-543-6328.

Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company prices vary with the products that are sold; buffalo and elk meat range from $8.95/ lb to $40.50/lb.  They also have package deals, and there is a wide variety of gift packages and steak packages available to please almost anyone.  Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company products are made in the Jackson store.

SE WY Cross Country Skiing in WY – by Just Trails

Posted on by wlmeditor

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We greatly appreciate Just Trails & Rebecca Walsh for sharing some tips on cross-country skiing in Southeast Wyoming! Check out their website to learn more about Wyoming outdoor resources — it’s a great tool!

3 Easy Cross-Country Ski Trails in Southeastern Wyoming

text & images by Rebecca Walsh, Just Trails

 

One of the advantages of living above 7,000 feet is that winter comes early and stays late. As our friends in other parts of the United States are enjoying scenic fall colors we’re dusting off our cross-country ski equipment and keeping an eye on the snowpack in the mountains. 

Medicine Bow National Forest isn’t famous for its cross-country skiing but it should be. There are dozens of miles of trails just a short drive from Laramie. Trails are perfect for both novice and experienced skiers. 

If you’re looking to spend a nice easy day on the ski trails we recommend the following locations:

 

Chimney Park

The Chimney Park trail system is the perfect place to learn how to cross-country ski. Trails wind their way along old logging roads with very little elevation change. While the trails are relatively flat, there are a few gentle rolling hills. The trails at Chimney Park have the added advantage of being tucked into a forest of lodgepole pines and aspen trees making it a great location to escape the Wyoming wind. 

There are 4 trails at Chimney Park: Woods Creek Loop (2.9 miles), Porter Loop (4.0 miles), Lodgepole Loop (3.0 miles) and Jelm View Loop (3.1 miles) and trails range in elevation from 8,800 feet to 9,000 feet. 

To get to Chimney Park travel southwest from Laramie on Highway 230 towards Woods Landing. The trailhead is just over 6 miles past Woods Landing on the south side of the highway between mile markers 33 and 34.

Ski trails at Chimney Park are sometimes groomed by the Forest Service; we recommend calling the Laramie Ranger District to find out if they’ve been groomed before heading to Chimney Park. There is a $5.00 day use fee payable at the trailhead. You can download a free trail guide for Chimney Park here.

Medicine Bow Rail Trail

The Medicine Bow Rail Trail is one of our favorites for easy backcountry skiing. The trail follows the old railroad bed of the Hans Peak and Pacific Railroad through the Medicine Bow National Forest for 22.4 miles. There are several different trailheads, most of which aren’t open or accessible during the winter. We recommend starting from the Woods Creek trailhead which is just past the Chimney Park trailhead off of Highway 230. This trailhead is not plowed in the winter, but there are places to park alongside the road.

The rail trail wanders through a pine forest along easy and flat terrain. Because this trail isn’t groomed, touring or backcountry skis with medal edges are recommended. This is a lesser known ski trail in the area and it’s a great place for solitude; rarely do we see other skiers here. You can download a free trail guide for the Medicine Bow Rail Trail here.

Tie City

While the cross-country ski trails at Tie City are more technical and challenging than those at Chimney Park or along the Rail Trail they have the advantage of being close to both Laramie and Cheyenne and they are regularly groomed by the Medicine Bow Nordic Association.

There are over 14 miles of trails at Tie City which span across a wide variety of terrain. Some of the more difficult trails offer challenging climbs while others offer gentle terrain through open meadows and dense forests.  Trails at Tie City range in elevation from 8,400-8,900 feet. The Tie City Trailhead is strategically placed in what feels like one of the windiest places on Pole Mountain, making just getting of to the car the hardest part of any ski trip there. However, once you start skiing and get into the tree’s the wind is hardly noticeable.

To get to the Tie City Trailhead take the Happy Jack exit off of I-80 and follow Happy Jack Road (Highway 210) down from the summit. The trailhead is between mile markers 36 and 37.

Ski trails at Tie City are groomed and maintained by the Medicine Bow Nordic Association. There is a $5.00 day use fee payable at the trailhead. You can download a free trail guide for Tie City here.

For more information about trails in Southeastern Wyoming and all the information you need to plan an outdoor adventure, visit us at http://www.justtrails.com.