C.J. Box, SHOTS FIRED: Stories from Joe Pickett Country

Posted on 24 April, 201425 April, 2014 by wlmeditor

We’re always excited to see a new book from C.J. Box arrive in our mail! We announced the debut of Box’s newest Joe Pickett novel, STONE COLD, in March, and now there is a new book of short stories from Box heading to stores in July 2014! Read on for more info from Putnam, Box’s publisher…

From New York Times-bestselling author C.J.Box comes SHOTS FIRED: Stories from Joe Pickett Country, a memorable collection of crime and suspense stories about the Wyoming Box knows so well – and the dark deeds and impulses that can be found there.

Over fourteen Joe Pickett novels and four stand-alone books, C.J. Box has been consistently hailed for his brilliant storytelling and his extraordinary skills at creating character, suspense, and a deep sense of place. All of those strengths can be found in the ten riveting stories – three of them written especially for this book and never before published – that make up SHOTS FIRED, which Putnam will publish on July 15 ($26.95).

In “One-Car Bridge,” one of four Joe Pickett stories, Joe goes up against a “just plain mean” landowner, with disastrous consequences. In “Shots Fired,” his investigation into the radio call of the title nearly ends up being the last thing he ever does. In “Pirates of Yellowstone,” two Eastern Europeans, strangers in a strange land, hear that American tough guys can be ruthless — but it’s not till they try strong-arming one that they discover the real truth of the statement. And in “Le Sauvage Noble,” the stranger is Jimmy Two Bulls, a Lakota who takes a job in the Wild West Show at Disneyland Paris and finds its perks to be pleasant – good wages, decent food and French women who find his “noble savage” act to be pretty exotic. That is, until he meets Sophie. Then Jimmy finds out what “savage” really means.

Together these ten stories prove again what BookPage recently remarked about the Joe Pickett novels: “I would say that he is at the top of his form, but the top just keeps moving ever upward.”

C.J. Box is the author of fourteen Joe PIckett novels, including the March 2014 entry STONE COLD, along with four stand-alone thrillers (for St. Martin’s). He has won the Anthony, Macavity, Gumshoe and Barry awards, as well as the French Prix Calibre .38, and has been an Edgar Award and Los Angeles Times Book Prize finalist, all for the Pickett novels. Box has also won the Edgar Award for best novel for his first stand-alone, Blue Heaven. His books have been translated into 25 languages.

A Wyoming native, C.J. Box has worked on a ranch and as a small-town newspaper reporter and editor. He lives outside Cheyenne with his wife Laurie and their four horses.

MADE IN WYOMING: Last Loop Rope Art

Posted on 23 April, 201425 April, 2014 by wlmeditor

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 Chele Needens Last Loop Rope Art

209 Klondike Road Buffalo, WY 82834

307-684-7843 twoeyedbaker@hotmail.com lastloopropeart.com On Facebook — Last Loop Rope Art

Last Loop Rope Art was started in 2000, when a very dear friend of Chele’s that made rope items passed away. His wife asked her if she would like to give it a try, and handed over all her husband’s supplies. Chele began, as many do, making pieces for her friends and family – and has turned that small beginning into a business.

Last Loop Rope Art has come a long way from that first Rope Basket. Chele is the creator and sole owner, and does everything from start to finish. That includes actually roping with the ropes that are later turned into a piece of art! Chele is a rancher and loves to barrel race and pole bend. While at rodeos she likes to see if any of the cowboys are willing to part with their ropes. Her rope activities and the ropes the cowboys use give each of the pieces a unique story and are a piece of Wyoming’s way of life. In 2010 Country Women Magazine came out and did a story on Last Loop Rope Art. They spent two days with Chele learning how to rope and how to make a rope bowl. The story came out in the spring of 2011, the April/May magazine.

Chele’s rope art is a little different from others. There is no glue; the work is burned together and then power washed. Although these rustic, one-of-a-kind pieces are sturdy, they are still a piece of art and can break.

Chele enjoys taking a customer’s idea and creating a beautiful piece of art, so custom orders are welcomed. Pieces include: baskets, bowls, candle holders, bathroom soap bottle holders, wastebaskets, lamp bases, business card holders, bird houses, welcome signs, wreaths, crosses and ribbons, mirror frames, clocks, footstools…..the possibilities are endless. Depending on the product, rope used and embellishment, prices start at about $17.50.

Chele also produces WildRags. WildRags are usually as 36” x 36” piece of cloth in various colors, patterns and fabric type that cowboys have worn for decades. They were traditionally used to keep the cowboy’s neck and face warm, cool by wetting in cold water, or to keep the dust out of their face, and other practical uses. Chele makes Wyo-Skies Wildrags, which are made from 100% silk, in a variety of sizes and dimensions. She dyes them herself and no two scarves are the same. These are great for anyone, in any type of weather (silk allows your skin to breath). Wyo-Skies Wildrags can be used as headbands, belts, wraps…and just about any way a person could image. Pricing starts at about $15 (8” x 54”) to $45 for a 44” x 44”. Most of Last Loop Rope Art pieces are feature on their Facebook page, Last Loop Rope Art & Wyo. Skies Wildrags, and the website, lastloopropeart.com. Pieces can be found at the Flying Eagle Gallery in Thermopolis, as well as the Jim Gatchell Museum and Frontier Toppings in Buffalo.

NEWS FROM THE PARKS: Junior Ranger Day April 26

Posted on 22 April, 2014 by wlmeditor

National Park Week begins Saturday, April 19, making this a wonderful time for an early season getaway to experience the wonders of Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. Visitors can participate in special National Junior Ranger Day programs on Saturday, April 26. Join us for fun and free activities for the whole family, starting this weekend.

The theme for this year’s National Park Week invites visitors to Go Wild! for history, nature, culture, wildlife, and fun in America’s national parks. “National Park Week is a great time to discover the diverse wildlife, iconic landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history found in our national parks,” said National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis. “Every park offers a different experience so I invite everyone to join the celebration and get to know a park.”

The entry fee for a private, non-commercial vehicle to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks normally costs $25 for seven days.

National Park Week wraps up with a celebration of National Junior Ranger Day on Saturday, April 26. Free events will take place at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center (CTDVC) in Moose and children who participate in at least three of the activities will earn a Junior Ranger badge or patch. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., families can explore rescue vehicles and equipment used in park operations including fire engines, ranger patrol cars and snowplows. Visitors are also invited to: participate in physical games testing their skills in an obstacle course; compete against the natural abilities of wildlife in Animal Olympic Games; listen to tales about Grand Teton in the story corner; touch animal furs, feathers and bones or dress up in a real ranger uniform; and spring into fitness with St. John’s Medical Center Wellness Services staff. Bird handlers from the Teton Raptor Center will be present from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to provide information and demonstrations with live birds of prey.

Junior Ranger Day is made possible in part with funding by the park’s long-time partner Grand Teton Association (GTA), who will offer a 15 percent discount in the CTDVC bookstore. Participants can buy educational materials, books and other merchandise like videos, posters, and plush animals by using this special discount.

Thanks to the GTA, free shuttles will also be available to transport families from Jackson to the CTDVC for the Junior Ranger Day events. Space on the shuttles will be limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information about Junior Ranger Day activities or about the free shuttle service, please call the CTDVC at 307.739.3399.

Additional information about National Park Week, including a list of nationwide events can be found online at www.nationalparkweek.org.

Opening dates for seasonally operated facilities and roads in Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway are as follows:

Roads

Teton Park Road	May 1
Moose-Wilson	After snow melt—date to be determined (TBD)
Grassy Lake Road	June 1; remaining snow drifts may limit access
Signal Mountain Summit	TBD

Paved multi-use pathways will be fully accessible for use once the snow melts naturally.

Visitor Centers & Ranger Stations

Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Ctr.	Open
Colter Bay Visitor Center	May 10
Jenny Lake Visitor Center	May 16
Laurance S. Rockefeller (LSR) Preserve Center	May 31
Flagg Ranch Information Station	June 2
Jenny Lake Ranger Station	June 6

Campgrounds

Gros Ventre	May 2
Signal Mountain	May 9
Jenny Lake	May 9
Colter Bay	May 22
Colter Bay RV Park	May 22
Headwaters Campground & RV Sites	June 1
Lizard Creek	June 13

All backcountry camping permits cost $25, whether advanced reservation or walk-in. Backcountry reservations may be made until May 15 with an additional $10 fee for advanced booking. Reservations can be made online at Recreation.gov. After May 15, all backcountry site permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.

Lodging

Signal Mountain Lodge	May 9
Jackson Lake Lodge	May 19
Colter Bay Cabins	May 22
Triangle X Ranch	May 25
Jenny Lake Lodge	June 1
Headwaters Lodge at Flagg Ranch	June 1

Entrance Stations

The Moose, Moran and Granite Canyon entrance stations are open. Fee options include:
$ 12 for a 7-day permit to enter by foot/bicycle into Grand Teton & Yellowstone national parks

$20 for a 7-day permit to enter by motorcycle into Grand Teton & Yellowstone national parks

$25 for a 7-day permit to enter by vehicle into Grand Teton & Yellowstone national parks

$50 for a Grand Teton/Yellowstone Annual Pass valid for one-year entry into both parks

$80 for an Interagency Annual Pass valid for one year entry to

all fee areas on federal lands

Bicyclists are reminded that they must stop and show an entry pass before proceeding through the gates, just as vehicles are required to do. An automated self-serve machine is located on the multi-use pathway adjacent to the Moose Entrance Station. People traveling on the pathway by foot, bike, or rollerblade will be required to stop and pay $12 for a 7-day entry permit, or have a valid pass in possession.

Personal identification is required with any pass that requires a signature.

For additional information about activities and services within Grand Teton National Park or the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, please visit the park’s website www.nps.gov/grte, stop by any visitor center, or call 307.739.3300.

Sara Pinson, RD, LD: Can Do Weekly Resolutions

Posted on 18 April, 201418 April, 2014 by wlmeditor

We’re thrilled to add another guest blogger – Sara Pinson, RD, LD, who will provide us with tips on eating & staying healthy. Certainly something that is applicable to everyone!

Sara Pinson is a Registered Dietitian, Wellness Coach and Type I Diabetic. As the owner of Sustainable Wellness, she works with individuals and organizations to help people make health changes simple, not hard. Sara Pinson, RD, LD foodladytalks@gmail.com

How do you want your 2014 to “taste”?

Build Your Base by Practicing “You Can Do” Weekly Resolutions

Compliments of Sara Pinson, RD, LD

Sustainable Wellness: One Bite @ a Time!

“The little train went roaring on, so fast, it seemed to fly
Until it reached a mountain rising almost to the sky
The little engine moaned and groaned and huffed and puffed away
But halfway to the top it just gave up and seemed to say

I can’t go on, I can’t go on, I’m weary as can be
I can’t go on, I can’t go on, this job is not for me…

I think I can, I think I can, I think I have a plan
And I can do ‘most anything if I only think I can”

The 1930’s child’s book titled The Little Engine That Could originally authored by Platt & Munk CO., Inc. told a sweet and simple, yet meaningful story. A story that can easily be applicable to so many aspects of our life. Change, such a hard thing to do. Takes willpower. If only it could be as easy as the characters tell us in The Little Engine That Could. News alert…it CAN. Take a step back and consider what it would look like if your New Year’s resolutions could actually turn into habits that don’t fly away in the Wyoming wind? What if you woke up and made the following promise to yourself… “Each day of the week, I will do just one thing to make a better me.” Up for it? Below you will find a suggested daily “to-do” list. Read on…and THINK you can…because you “can do most anything” if “only” you think you can.
Monday- Identify your motivation level. Your motivation drives your commitment, your sustainability and ultimately your success. Choose your number TODAY. Are you a 1 and not really into this change for the better type of thing? Are you a 5 and somewhere in the middle and not really sure which direction you want to head in or are you a 10 and just can’t wait to begin your journey towards a healthier YOU, no matter how challenging it may be? Stay true to your number and recognize what increases, decreases, or holds you motivation steady.

Tuesday-Try a new and unfamiliar fruit. Variety is so important when trying to sustain your wellness. Often we get tired of the same types of foods. Keep it new, fresh and exciting by putting yourself out there and trying an unfamiliar fruit. Have you ever heard of blood oranges or dragon fruits? Take a few minutes today and read up on a fruit you have never tried before. You may surprise yourself and like it!

Wednesday- Try a new and unfamiliar vegetable. We tend to turn to the usual, carrots, broccoli and greens beans. But what about eggplant, radish, kale, brussel sprouts or spaghetti squash? The list goes on when it comes to veggies you may have never heard of before. Spearhead a family challenge, try to find vegetables that begin with the letter A, then B, then C and so forth. What an innovative way to get your kids to try a new food and add some spunk to your usual choices!

Thursday-Take 5 minutes out of your day, increase the volume on your I-Phone and bust a move. Getting your heart huffing and puffing gives you an energy burst that is priceless. Taking just a few minutes out of your day and allowing yourself to be a little “silly” goes a long way in the day’s productivity and sets the stage for a happy mood and decreases stress level. Grab a friend, a co-worker or a family member and combine fun with fitness!

Thursday: Look at a food label of a food or drink that you have in your house. You may just surprise yourself and recognize what REALLY is in some of your household staples. If you find that it’s loaded with sugar and fat, this doesn’t mean you CAN’T have it. Raise your awareness. Saving those indulgences as a “sometime” food grants you the permission to enjoy it but with portion and frequency control in mind.

Friday: Use measuring utensils to measure out your cereal, rice or pasta. Get ready for a wakeup call! It accumulates quickly. Adding perspective to what and how much you are eating goes a long way in promoting appropriate serving sizes. You won’t know until you do it, so grab that utensil, measure up and resonate on where improvement may be necessary.

Saturday: Take 15 minutes to eat your meal. We call this “mindful eating”. Take home message, the slower you eat, the less you will eat and the faster you will get full. Mealtime should be a relaxing family centered activity, so take your time, engage in conversation (without food in your mouth) and enjoy each other’s company. The hustle and bustle of the day deserves a dinner meal that is free from distraction and simply…peaceful.

Sunday: Share with 1 person, 1 change you have made this week. Two huge aspects of sustaining wellness is holding yourself accountable and being proud of YOU. If you made a goal and stuck with it…celebrate! Change is hard and should be recognized. Even if it was as simple as going to the gym once in the last 5 days, great work and spread the word. Remember living a healthy life is contagious so you are it and pass it on!

MADE IN WYOMING: High Country Horse

Posted on 15 April, 201415 April, 2014 by wlmeditor

This week we are featuring High Country Horse of Laramie, WY

Oliver “Ollie” Hill, High Country Horse Laramie, WY 307-745-4553 Ollie_wy@hotmail.com www.highcountryhorse.net

Ollie Hill got started because of his love for horses and hunting and fishing trips in the back country of Colorado and Wyoming. His first high country experience was during a high school graduation fishing trip with his brother. Ollie’s will to take a horse on this trip out weighed his knowledge on how to do so.

Ollie participated in Al Richardson’s noted Packing and Outfitting course during graduate school. He became inspired to teach others how to enjoy riding, packing, cooking and learning survival skills for high country adventures. This is when he became interested in sharing this experience and information with others to help them learn. Packing schools and demonstrations are very much hands-on, with a custom arrangement with tack and saddle shops and with universities and colleges.

Ollie began authoring books and teaching credit courses, as well as teaching one day packing courses and demonstrations. There are now five “how to” books that are on the market in over 40 states and over 20 countries. These “how to” books provide information on animal packing and outfitting:

Packing and Outfitting Field Manual
Dot It Yourself Plans for Rawhide Panniers
Do It Yourself Plans for Mini-Pack Horse
A Do-It-Yourself Guild to Improvements, Repairs and Complete Rigging of Crossbuck and Decker Pack Saddles
Do It Yourself Plans for Deluxe Portable Camp Table

The newest product is an educational game for kids and their horses–”Kid’s Arena Horse Play Game.” This game was created to provide a fun learning experience for kids and their horses. Kids complete the arena course by successfully answering horsemanship questions and performing riding skills required to move on to each station. The questions address both Western and English riding and cover a wide range of horse health, anatomy, tack and equine knowledge. The game is for three age groups.

To order any of High Country House books or the game, visit their web site: www.highcountryhorse.net. Customers can also order by phone or mail.

NEWS FROM THE PARKS: Teton Park Road Now Open for Non-Motorized Spring Season Activities

Posted on 9 April, 2014 by wlmeditor

Teton Park Road Now Open for Non-Motorized Spring Season Activities

images by Grand Teton National Park — taken from the Mount Moran scenic turnout on the Teton Park Road in GTNP — April 2, 2014

Grand Teton National Park road crews cut through the deep snowpack on the Teton Park Road between the Taggart Lake parking area and Signal Mountain Lodge—a distance of 15 miles— and completed this portion of the annual spring plowing on Friday, April 4. The Teton Park Road has now melted down to pavement and is currently open to non-motorized recreation such as walking, roller-blading, and biking. However, road crews are still in the process of clearing the Jenny Lake scenic loop road, as well as other auxiliary roads and wayside areas.

Because the annual snow removal operations are still underway, anyone using the Teton Park Road for springtime recreation must be alert for and be prepared for sharing the road with heavy equipment, large trucks, and other park vehicles that will regularly travel this roadway as the spring opening continues. As a safety precaution, visitors to this area must stay at least 500 feet back from the large rotary snow removal equipment at work.

The annual plowing of the Teton Park Road is a process that can take several weeks to complete, depending on the depth and consistency of the snowpack. Due to the exceptionally deep and dense snowpack this year, snow removal on just the principal Teton Park Road has taken the better part of two weeks. Still, springtime visitors can look forward to access on this park road for more than three weeks before it opens for the summer travel season.

The Teton Park Road will open again to private vehicle use on Thursday, May 1, 2014. Visitors are reminded that dogs are permitted on the Teton Park Road. Owners are required to keep pets on a leash no longer than six feet in length, and are required to use waste disposal bags to pick up after their dogs. Mutt Mitt stations are in place at the Taggart Lake parking area.

REMINDER: Bears are now out of hibernation and active again in Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. Consequently, park visitors need to be alert for bears and take appropriate precautions when using the Teton Park Road and other park areas. Visitors should exercise common sense and good judgment, stay alert, and follow these recommended safety tips while biking, hiking or spring skiing:

• Make noise

• Travel in a group of three or more

• Carry bear spray and know how to use it

• Maintain a 100-yard distance from bears at all times

• Never approach a bear under any circumstances People should also report any bear sightings or sign to the nearest visitor center or ranger station. Timely reporting will help park staff to provide important safety messages about bear activity to other visitors.

MADE IN WYOMING: Simple Joys Soap

Posted on 27 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

visit our website & read the NEW Sprinter 2014 issue!

This week we are featuring Simple Joys Soap of Sheridan, Wyoming

Susan Flynn, Simple Joys Soap PO Box 6461 Sheridan, WY 82801 307-672-2130 sflynn@wyoming.com www.simplejoyssoap.com

Simple Joys Soap began when Susan developed an obsession with soap-making! There were so many essential oil (scent) combinations to try out and so many recipes! As she was purchasing ingredients in a Good Health Emporium & Warehouse Market in Sheridan, both owners began asking her if she would like to sell soap to them. Of course, Susan said yes! She was making so much more than she could use or give away, so it seemed to be the way to go — and with that, Simple Joys Soap was launched!

As a family business, Susan’s daughter and son-in-law help her with production and distribution. In busy times, she has also had help from friends and other family members. Simple Joys Soap is an entirely home-based business.

Although there are about 18 different scents, there are still many more possible combinations of essential oils and additives. Susan enjoys trying new ideas for special projects, so custom orders are always welcome. Also, for a nominal one-time fee, she offers custom soap labels to wholesale customers. For example, Paradise Guest Ranch, The Ranch at Ucross, and others have their logo on the soap label. In these businesses, Simple Joys Soap is available to the guests to use in their room and in the gift shops to buy as gifts.

For retail customers, Simple Joys Soap may be purchased by a phone, email, or the website:www.simplejoyssoap,com. Wholesale customers can email Susan at sflynn@wyoming.com or simplejoyssoap@wyoming.com, or phone 307-672-2130.

There are three sizes of soap: Hospitality, Half-size, and Full-size bars. Retail prices range from $1.00 to $5.00. Simple Joys Soap is made from a vegetable-based product made with high-quality ingredients and scented with essential oils. The labels accurately describe the ingredients found in the soap. Whenever possible, Susan supports local businesses when purchasing ingredients such as honey, coffee, organic oatmeal, etc. Extra soap is donated to local charities yearly. Simple Joys Soap is passionate about recycling ingredient containers!

Liberty Lausterer: Hitch Your Wagon to the Stars

Posted on 24 March, 201424 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

visit our website & read the new Sprinter 2014 issue!

Our guest blogger, Liberty Lausterer, is back with another introspective look at our square state. Liberty moved to Wyoming within this past year, and offers us her perspective at life in the Cowboy State from a new resident’s eyes.

HITCH YOUR WAGON TO THE STARS

Here’s a scary thought. According to Tyler Nordgren, author of Stars Above, Earth Below: Astronomy in the National Parks, 50% of children born this year will never see the Milky Way. I’m no astronomer, but I’d say that’s pretty tragic news.

At a recent talk Nordgren gave at UW, he shared how light pollution is quickly turning the night sky into a rare commodity. We have now entered the era in which families across the U.S. will have to pack their kiddos into a car and drive a lengthy distance to a national park (spending lots of money on gas and lodging and drive-through meals), all so their kids can see the stars. And in some cases (such as Great Smoky Mountains National Park) not even the parks are immune to the devastating effects of light pollution.

The good news is we in Wyoming don’t have many city lights. It’s one of the many things I love about living in a sparsely populated state! But what our children, and our children’s children, will see in the coming generations depends a lot on the choices we make today. From the lights we install in our yards to light up our walkways, to the street lights we approve as communities, the fate of Wyoming’s night sky rests in our hands.

image by Tyler Nordgren

John Muir, the naturalist, said “When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe.” My husband and I have stopped turning the front porch light on when we leave for the evening. I guess you could say it’s our small act of gratitude for the gift of this incredible Wyoming sky we share. So hitch your wagon to the stars!

Black Dog Animal Rescue Wins a Car!

Posted on 18 March, 201418 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

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We’re so excited for our friends at Black Dog Animal Rescue, located in Cheyenne & also serving Laramie and the region! They were awarded with a new Toyota Sienna Van for their good deeds as part of the Toyota Cars for Good program. Congrats to them – it is VERY well deserved! Pics follow of the award, plus a note on their upcoming event on April 10, AND info on how you can foster a dog – or adopt one & give it a loving Forever Home!

Click on the photo above for info on Thankful Thursday, April 10!

Info on BDAR from BDAR…

Black Dog Animal Rescue (BDAR) is Cheyenne’s only No-Kill animal shelter. We are a small organization run solely on a volunteer basis and funded entirely through donations. BDAR came into existence because of a strongly held belief by its founders. Namely, that no animals should be euthanized in shelters because of population restrictions or because of the length of time it may take to find a permanent home.

*Please Note: “Black Dog” is only part of our name – being a black dog is not a requirement to be rescued.

Donations are always graciously welcomed! If you have anything you would like to donate contact BDAR and arrangements can be made for drop-off or pick-up. Our phone number is: (307) 214-6600 and email address is: bdar@bdar.org. Visit our website http://bdar.org/ for more information on BDAR, volunteer and foster information, and take a look at the current dogs up for adoption!

Apply to foster a dog! We have lots, and you can even pick the one you really want to help after you’ve gone through training. We’ll give you all the supplies you need, pay for all of the vet bills, and even give you a buddy to help you out with any questions or issues that might come up!

Check out some of the adorable faces we currently have waiting….

Have more questions? Get them answered here:http://www.bdar.org/join-our-life-saving-foster-home-program/

Wind River Country to Have a Team in Cowboy Tough Adventure Race

Posted on 17 March, 201420 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

click here & view our current issue

Chuck Schuster and Karla Wagner competing in Leadville. Photo credit: Shad Hamilton

Fremont County, WY – The Rev3 Cowboy Tough Adventure Race will return to Wyoming for a second year, and this year not only will a considerable portion of the race take place in Fremont County, but the county will have its very own team.

The Wind River Visitors Council is sponsoring a local four-person team for the three-and-a-half-day race on July 17-20. The Wind River Country Team will be the local team to root for as the race makes its way from South Pass City to Casper. Adventure racing mixes outdoor sports like mountain biking, trail running, trekking, and water sports with navigation challenges over a course that, in this case, totals 290-390 miles.

Casey Adams is part of the Wind River Country Team in the Rev3 Cowboy Tough Adventure Race. Photo credit: Kelsi Dean

“We are so fortunate to live in a place with such incredible outdoor and recreational opportunities and community support from organizations like the Wind River Visitors Council,” said team captain Casey Adams. “We are very grateful to the council for making this race possible for us.”

The Wind River Visitors Council is looking forward to following the team, comprised of Adams, Shad Hamilton, Chuck Schuster and Karla Wagner, as they prepare for the race in the Southern Wind River Mountains of Wyoming over the next four months. These competitors will keep the public updated about their adventures in preparing for the race, while helping spread the word about the amazing access and recreational opportunities Wind River Country has to offer.

Shad Hamilton screaming down the Powerline descent at Leadville. Photo Credit: Shad Hamilton

Wind River Country is hosting the start of the Adventure Race on July 17, as well as a significant portion of the route on July 18. The race will start at South Pass City State Historic Site. Competitors will hike, bike trek and paddle through the Shoshone National Forest, Sinks Canyon State Park, Lander, Riverton, Shoshoni, Boysen Reservoir and Boysen State Park. On July 19, competitors will head toward Casper for the final portion of the race.

According to Paula McCormick, Marketing Director of the Wind River Visitors Council, a partnership with Governor Matt Mead’s Office, Wyoming Office of Tourism and Central Wyoming College are making it possible to host the start of the race in Fremont County. Joining the Wind River Visitors Council in supporting this team already are the National Outdoor Leadership School, the Lander Cycling Club, Brooks Running and Deuter.

Shad Hamilton screaming down the Powerline descent at Leadville. Photo Credit: Shad Hamilton

“The Wind River Visitors Council is working with our partners to make this race great for the competitors and for locals and visitors who may want to watch portions of the race. We are very proud that Fremont County was selected to be the start of the race in its second year in Wyoming,” McCormick explained.

Fremont County is a great place for adventures—an outstanding location to train for an adventure race such as the Cowboy Tough. Not only do the mountains afford excellent training grounds, but the communities also provide support like an extended family.

About The Wind River Visitors Council:

The Wind River Visitors Council is Fremont County’s Lodging Tax Board that oversees tourism promotion for the county and its communities. For a complete calendar of events go to www.windriver.org/calendar, or to request a vacation packet, please visit us at Wind River Country or call 800-645-6233.

MADE IN WYOMING: Maura Jacobsen Pottery

Posted on 14 March, 201414 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

visit our website & read the winter issue – spring issue is coming soon!

This week we are featuring Maura Jacobsen Pottery of Cheyenne

Maura Jacobsen Cheyenne, WY 970-629-9478 maurajacobsen@yahoo.com www.maurajacobsen.com

Maura Jacobsen started her business in a two room cabin in Riverside, Wyoming after she graduated from the University of Wyoming in 1993. It has grown over the years to include her husband and three children, who run the shipping department. Maura’s pottery studio is located in Cheyenne where she produces pottery platters made out of vintage license plates.

Maura has lived in many small towns in Wyoming where she has promoted her love of art. The business has grown over the years and she does demonstrations and classes for adults and children. Maura is also on the Wyoming Arts Council Artist Roster.

There are two potter styles. The style being produced the longest is all hand thrown and glazed stoneware for everyday use. Fun patterns and sayings are a reflection of where Maura lives and the silly things her children say. The second style was just started this last year; the vintage licenses plates. These become one-of-a-kind patchwork platters. Maura receives license plates from around the county to be made into platters. The love for the license plate platter had taken off. Maura has found that a license plate holds fond memories and stories, and this product allows customers the opportunity to take the plate off the garage wall and share it with family members by having a functional piece of art made.

Custom orders are a large part of Maura’s business. Her products can be purchased through her website at www.maurajacobsen.com. Maura’s pieces can be found at Wyoming Home in Cheyenne, Made Jackson Hole and at Wadoo in Old Town Fort Collins. Check her web site for more locations as they are added. The prices range from $18 to $75.

She is always looking to create a product people will love and something that brings a smile to their face when they see what has been created just for them.

ART IN WY: Sheridan, Cheyenne, Casper, Lander, Laramie

Posted on 12 March, 201412 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

SHERIDAN: SAGE COMMUNITY ART CENTER FEATURES STATES & WUERKER

DEAN STATES “SEVEN YEARS PLUS”:

The SAGE Exhibit Gallery features lifelong Sheridan area resident Dean States, whose exquisite colored pencil drawings will be exhibited during his “Seven Years Plus” show, which runs March 1st-31st. An artist’s reception and gallery talk will be held March 13 at the Main Street SAGE Exhibit Gallery (at Sheridan College’s Main Street location), 171 N. Main, in Sheridan, WY. As always, the public is invited and refreshments will be served.

More of States’ work can be seen at Dean States Studio, located at 637 W. Loucks in Sheridan.

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.

Jenny Wuerker

“PAINTING THE EXPANSE” Jenny Wuerker:

The Sagebrush Art Center’s Invitational Gallery hosts Buffalo, WY artist Jenny Wuerker’s exhibition, “Painting the Expanse,” March 10- April 12, 2014. The reception and artist’s talk will be Friday, March 14th, from 5-7pm at the Art Center’s front gallery, located in the Historic Trail Depot (201 E. 5th Street) in Sheridan, Wyoming. The public is welcome and refreshments will be available. Wuerker says of her work, “I paint the expanse of the West, the iconic American landscape. Painting on large canvases, immersed in the elements, and battling the occasional rattlesnake is like the X-Sport of landscape painting. When I’m standing out in the landscape, the subject of my work is as much the act of painting outdoors as it is the landscape depicted.”

Sagebrush Gallery Hours are Monday-Saturday, 10-5pm.

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.

LARAMIE: University of Wyoming Art Museum Celebrates Youth Art Month

CHEYENNE: Cheyenne Botanic Gardens Garden Series

This great series of garden lectures is sponsored by the Laramie County Master Gardeners and Cheyenne Botanic Gardens. All presentations begin at 1:00 pm and are held in the Cottonwood Room, Laramie County Library.

March 15, 2014, ‘Tuning up the Wyoming Garden’ with Wyoming Plant Company owner, Tom Heald.

April 26, 2014, ‘Seed, Soil, Sun, Water: all you need to grow food in the west’ with high altitude food growing teachers and sustainable greenhouse designers, Penn & Cord Parmenter.

These events often sell out. Advance purchase of tickets is highly recommended. Tickets are $15 per lecture and are available on the web (up to 2 hours prior to the lecture) at Brown Paper Tickets (Keyword: Gardening with Altitude) or at the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens weekdays (cash or check); contact Darcee Snider 307−637−6458 for more info.

art by Dalton Schneider

LANDER: Lander Art Museum Celebrates Youth Art Month in March

In celebration of March’s Youth Art Month, the Lander Art Center hosts the Lander Valley High School and Middle School Select Art Show on display now until Saturday, March 29th. The exhibition consists of select works by local youth artists in a wide range of art mediums from drawing, painting, and printmaking to sculpture, ceramics and digital art.

This artwork showcases the incredible skill and creative expression of young students. Their work is a reminder of the freshness art can embody and be an inspiration to us all. Students are lead by art instructors Jason Dayton, Shawna Pickenpaugh, and Melissa Scherr-Bender.

Lander Art Center openings are free and open to the public. Thank you to this year’s exhibition sponsors Lander Valley Education Foundation and John P. Shade, an Edward Jones financial adviser.

Grace Flint

Reb Lindwurm

Braden Meyer

CASPER: The Nicolaysen Art Museum Features Michael Copeland

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

Posted on 7 March, 20147 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

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

MADE IN WYOMING: Olde Tyme Remedies/Unker’s Multi-Purpose Therapeutic Products

Posted on 6 March, 20147 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

visit our website & read the current issue – spring issue is coming soon!

This week we are featuring Olde Tyme Remedies, LLC of Upton

Patricia Pendleton, Olde Tyme Remedies, LLC — Mfg. of Unker’s Multi-Purpose Therapeutic Products Upton, WY 82730

888-866-2843 otr-unkers@fuse.net www.unkers.com

Patricia Pendleton is the current owner and CEO of Unker’s. Her great uncle began making the mutli-purpose healing and pain relief salve from a formula which went back to the early 1900’s. Pat’s father refined the original formula to use all pure essential oils and continued making the salve in his garage in Wapakoneta, Ohio. The name Unker’s is derived from a young relative who could not say “Uncle” but could only say “Unker.” In 1995, the company moved to Upton, Wyoming, where all products are manufactured today.

Unker’s Multi-Purpose Therapeutic Products does not take custom orders since they have product available for shipment at all times. All products are handcrafted and there is a full line of personal care and topical pain relief items.

This is a family, Christian-based, and woman-owned manufacturing company competing successfully in a market place with much larger companies. They stand behind their products and have not issued a refund due to the quality of the products in 32 years. Unker’s Multi-Purpose Therapeutic Products has had customer’s family members call them when they have passed away to let them know that their product & company meant so much to that person! How many companies can say that?

Unker’s products are multi-purpose topical pain relief, so not only do customers get a high quality product made in the USA, they also save money. No need to buy one product to treat one symptom only to find it has chemicals in it, an expiration date and may not do the job. Unker’s manufactures their products with all pure essential oils purchased from US vendors, no chemicals and an indefinite expiration date!

Customers can contact Unker’s Multi-Purpose Therapeutic Products directly to purchase by the case, or they can purchase from one of the many retail locations listed on their website. Prices vary depending on the quantity/cases purchased. Unker’s does not sell individual items from their facility, but refers customers to one of their retailers.

Purchase Unker’s at these retail locations in Wyoming:

Discount Remedies and Wyoming Shirt & Gift in Casper
Nature’s Corner in Thermopolis
Hasco Industrial Supply in Worland
Genesis Chiropractic in Landers
South Street Pharmacy in Wheatland
Broken Wheel Truck Stop in Douglas
Joe’s Food Center, Arrow Gas in Upton
Diehl’s Supermarket in Moorcroft
Cassidy Seed & Feed in Sundance
Thars Feed in Newcastle

Unker’s took its first venture into NASCAR recently by sponsoring veteran driver Mike Wallace’s Car No. 28 in the running of February’s Nationwide Series Daytona 500. (see picture). Veteran NASCAR driver Mike Wallace #28 in the Unker’s sponsored car February 22, 2014 Daytona Florida

Catch Some Air with the Jeep Brand at JH Mountain Resort

Posted on 3 March, 20143 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

visit our website and read the current issue — our spring issue is on its way soon!

Catch Some Air with the Jeep® Brand at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

What’s your style? From March 1 until March 30, get familiar with the expert skills of the 2014 Jeep® brand vehicle lineup at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. While there, the Jeep brand will be offering an up close look at all the sweet spots on the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee recently named ‘Best Small Utility’ by PBS’ MotorWeek, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the 2014 Jeep Wrangler. While out on the fresh powdery slopes, posses making trails at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort can get some solid hot cocoa, coffee, key vehicle knowledge and gnarly keepsake photos, all compliments of the Jeep brand. All those who visit the Jeep brand experience at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort can enter the 2014 Chrysler Group National Giveaway for a chance to win $45,000 towards any eligible vehicle, including the 2014 Jeep Cherokee. Learn how the Official Vehicle of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is made to keep up with any adventure. For more information on the Jeep brand please visit www.Jeep.com.

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