News

Youth Hunter Education is a Priority in Upton

Friday, August 07, 2020

What: 13th Annual Wyoming State Youth Hunter Education Challenge When: August 22 (Check-In at 7:00am & events begin at 7:30am) Where: Upton Gun Club Who: Youth age 18 and under Registration: There is a $10 entry fee and all participants must bring a copy of their Hunter Education Class card. Register online, download the registration form or contact Rick Rothleutner, YHEC Director at rrrothleutner@yahoo.com or 307- 281-9980 or Katie Simpson, Hunter Education Coordinator at katie.simpson@wyo.gov or 307-777-4542. Hunting in Wyoming is well-known as a large draw for recreational enthusiasts, many of whom begin hunting as a youth. Learning to hunt safely is important to continuin...

School to Implement Smart Start Reopening Plan

Thursday, August 06, 2020

By Gazette Assistant Publisher/Editor Nicholas Trandahl “Your action tonight means we’re open for business,” Superintendent Clark Coberly told the members of the School Board during a special meeting of the Weston County School District No. 7 Board of Trustees on Wednesday, July 29th. The action the Superintendent referred to was the passage of the 2020-2021 Smart Start Plan. Following prior meetings by a District Smart Start Plan Committee, discussions with District staff and faculty, two community meetings, and direction from the Wyoming Department of Health, District No. 7 has formulated a reopening plan to best serve the needs of Upto...

Wyoming Teams Up With MIT to Explore Energy and Climate Solutions

Thursday, August 06, 2020

Representatives from the Wyoming Governor’s Office, University of Wyoming School of Energy Resources, and Wyoming Energy Authority are exploring future avenues for collaboration with faculty and researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to strengthen Wyoming’s energy economy while lowering CO2 emissions “This moment in time presents us with an opportunity to seize: creating a strong economic future for the people of Wyoming while protecting something we all care about—the climate,” said Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon. “Wyoming has tremendous natural resources that create thousands of high-paying jobs. This conversation with MIT allows us to consider how we use our strength...

Crawford Chosen as Perkins Coordinator of the Year

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

By Gazette Assistant Publisher/Editor Nicholas Trandahl At the Weston County School District #7 Trustee meeting on Wednesday evening, July 8th, Upton High School Principal Linda Crawford garnered an award from the Wyoming Department of Education—Perkins Coordinator of the Year. According to the Wyoming Department of Education, Perkins legislation provides an important opportunity to expand opportunities for every student to explore, choose, and follow career and technical education programs of study and career pathways to earn credentials of value. Making the drive from Cheyenne to present the award to Principal Crawford at the meeting was Dr. Michelle Aldrich, Career and Technical Education Superviso...

Budget Cuts Approved by Governor Gordon total more than $250 Million

Monday, July 13, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 13, 2020 CONTACT: Michael Pearlman, Communications Director Michael.Pearlman@wyo.gov Budget Cuts Approved by Governor Gordon total more than $250 Million Governor signs Executive Order to consolidate Human Resources Personnel for additional savings CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Governor Mark Gordon has announced deep budget cuts for the current two-year budget cycle totaling more than $250 million, or nearly 10% of the state’s general fund budget. This comes after revenue projections showed an almost $1 billion shortfall for the general fund and another $500 million for school funding. The budget reductions will include state employees losing their jobs, as well as mandatory furloughs, a reduction in majo...

UW’s Construction Management Program Receives Grant for Workforce Training

Thursday, July 09, 2020

The University of Wyoming College of Engineering and Applied Science’s Construction Management Program has received a $452,522 grant that will help support construction training in Wyoming. The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services awarded the funds through its Workforce Development Training Fund (WDTF). This is the first award of this type for the Construction Management Program. The WDTF is a unique Wyoming-based program connecting employers with professional development opportunities to increase employee skill attainment and earning power. Read the full article here.

State Paying Barclays $2.5 Million For Work On Occidental Deal

Wednesday, July 08, 2020

UPDATE: On July 6, the State Land and Investment Board voted unanimously to authorize the state to make a bid to Occidental Petroleum for the entire property under consideration or a portion of it. The board is made up of Wyoming’s governor, treasurer, superintendent of public education, secretary of state and auditor. The board would vote again on a final purchase agreement if the bid is successful, according to the motion the SLIB passed. Before such a vote, the state is required to publish a report on the potential transaction and hold four public meetings. At least one meeting must be held i...

Governor and Top Elected Officials Unanimously Support Bid to Invest in Wyoming Land

Tuesday, July 07, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 7, 2020 CONTACT: Michael Pearlman, Communications Director Michael.Pearlman@wyo.gov CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Governor Mark Gordon and the members of the State Loan and Investment Board (SLIB) have unanimously supported the submission of a bid to purchase Wyoming land with a goal of returning additional revenue to the state. The non-binding bid is only another step towards the purchase, and is not final. The bid will now be submitted to Occidental Petroleum for the purchase of land and minerals, and may include the entirety of the land offered or a portion. The Board’s vote requires additional public meetings prior to final approval of an...

UW adds geospatial programs

Tuesday, July 07, 2020

LARAMIE (WNE) — The University of Wyoming Board of Trustees approved a plan for the university to offer new degree and certificate programs in geospatial information science and technology. These new programs are managed by the Wyoming Geographic Information Science Center. “Geospatial science is a way to ask questions and answer questions that have to do with where things are and how things relate to each other spatially,” said program coordinator Ken Driese. The decision came on June 10 with the goal of meeting changing student demands and workforce needs in the state and region. Read the full article here.

Wyo's wide-open spaces continue to attract investment

Tuesday, July 07, 2020

While the COVID-19 pandemic knows no boundaries, life in Wyoming still looks and feels quite familiar compared to much of the country, where millions have been holed up in high rises. "We never had an explicit name for it like we do now, but most Wyomingites will tell you that social distancing is one thing they have always appreciated about life in Wyoming,” said Wendy Lopez, business recruitment manager for the Wyoming Business Council. “We’ve got plenty of wide-open spaces here.” Spectacular views, boundless recreational opportunities, low population and room to grow have always been important features Lopez highlights when recruiting businesses to the state. And, while COVID-19 has brought about many changes for everyone across the country, it has also brought awareness to just how appealing thos...

Wyoming man develops new stormwater filter system

Tuesday, July 07, 2020

LARAMIE — Four years ago, Brian Deurloo woke up during the early hours of the morning. A vision had come to him, one that involved an innovative solution for dealing with stormwater. In 2016, Deurloo, a lifelong Wyoming resident, decided to start Frog Creek Partners based upon his vision. “The idea came to me at 2:37 in the morning on my daughter’s eighth birthday, I shot up in bed with an idea on a stormwater filter and I went to my garage at three that morning and started building one out of cardboard,” Deurloo said. Read the full article here.

Wyoming rare earth elements project receives federal funding

Friday, June 26, 2020

GILLETTE -- (AP) — A project in Wyoming to develop technologies and methods to extract rare earth elements from coal ash received more than $810,000 from the federal government. Researchers at the National Energy Technology Laboratory are overseeing the project, The Gillette News Record reported Wednesday. The project received the grant from the U.S. Department of Energy's Technology Commercialization Fund.

Wyoming Department of Health updates guidance supporting outdoor visitation at long-term care facilities

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 16, 2020 CONTACT: Michael Pearlman, Communications Director Michael.Pearlman@wyo.gov CHEYENNE, Wyo. – The Wyoming Department of Health has issued updated guidance to allow long-term care facilities to permit in-person visitation outdoors under specific guidelines. The new guidance requires visits to occur in a designated outdoor space, limits visitors to two persons at a time and requires screening of visitors for symptoms of respiratory illness. A facility staff member trained in patient safety and infection control measures must remain with the resident at all times during the visit. Staff and residents must wear surgical face masks and visitors are required to wear face coverings. “W...

How the Covid-19 Crisis is Affecting the 2020 U.S. Census

Monday, June 15, 2020

The U.S. Census is conducted in the United States every 10 years. The Census aims to count the entire population of the United States. The Census asks American households certain questions such as sex, age, and race of each person in the household. These demographics help determine congressional representation and how much funding each state, county, and community received of the $675 billion per year in federal funding. These funds are spent on schools, hospitals, roads, public works, and other essential programs. The U.S. Census data is also very helpful for businesses and developers. Businesses can use Census data to decid...

13 week extension of unemployment benefits now available

Saturday, June 13, 2020

The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS) announced today that after extensive testing, the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program is now open to applicants. The PEUC program adds 13 weeks of Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits to a regular claim for those that are eligible. Regular UI is normally available for 26 weeks, and with the 13-week extension, the total eligibility for benefits is 39 weeks. PEUC is not available to Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claimants, as that program is already extended to 39 weeks. "We're extremely glad to announce the extension of benefits through PEUC," said Holly McKamey Simoni, Workforce Program...

Business Council requests proposals for relief programs marketing

Saturday, June 13, 2020

The Wyoming Business Council requests proposals from marketing and PR individuals or firms to provide a marketing campaign for the Wyoming Business Relief programs, which distribute grant funding to help Wyoming businesses mitigate financial hardship as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The contractor will develop and execute a comprehensive statewide information and outreach program targeting business owners, Business Council partners and stakeholders. The Business Council will move quickly to select a qualified contractor. The deadline for proposals is 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 16. Click here to view the RFP document. Please submit RFPs to Strategic Partnerships Director Ron Gullberg at ron.gullberg@wyo.gov. Call 307-286-9519 with questions.

Japanese company plans carbon dioxide project in Wyoming

Saturday, June 13, 2020

GILLETTE, Wyo A Japanese company has signed an agreement to use the Integrated Test Center near Gillette to test technology designed to capture carbon dioxide from gas produced by power plants. Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Japan Coal Energy Center signed an agreement with the state of Wyoming to conduct a joint carbon capture test project at the Dry Fork Station power plant, the Gillette News Record reported. The technology uses a reusable powder made of chemical compounds to naturally attract and capture carbon dioxide, said Jason Begger, executive director of the Wyoming Infrastructure Authority. The authority manages the Integrated Test Center. Read more here.

Relief grant applications, payment processing continue uninterrupted

Saturday, June 13, 2020

As of midday Friday, the Wyoming Business Council had received more than $60 million in Business Relief Stipend program applications and had approved $2.95 million of applications for payment. Thirteen Wyoming business owners received a total of $236,640 in the initial round of payments, which began Wednesday. The Business Council opened applications Monday morning. Sam Clikeman of Big Lost Meadery in Gillette was among the first business owners to receive funding to mitigate financial hardship as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. “It’s been a really easy process, from how quick the application process is to receiving payment,” Clikeman said of the $18,732 grant he received. “This is huge. Good timing. This helps some of our operating shortfall for being closed for two months.” Clikeman said Bi...

Wyoming Business Relief Program issues first grant payments, application period remains open

Friday, June 12, 2020

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Governor Mark Gordon announced that the first grant payments to Wyoming small business owners who applied for COVID-19 mitigation assistance have been issued. The payments are posted on the WyOpen.gov website created by State Auditor Kristi Racines to provide the public with easy access to state of Wyoming expenditures. “I’m glad to report that the state has begun issuing these payments," Governor Gordon said. "I want to thank both the Wyoming Business Council for their expeditious work in standing up this program, and the Auditor for her support of our desire for transparency.” Eight businesses have received nearly $150,000 in grant payments t...

How Is the Pandemic Affecting Location Decisions in the Food & Beverage Industry?

Tuesday, June 09, 2020

I've been fortunate to have some great conversations with economic developers over the past few weeks, with many questions on the pandemic's impact on site location decisions for the food and beverage Industry. While nothing is certain, I've read and attached links to some important insights which I would like to share with those who currently or plan to target this industry. Continue reading here.

Liz Byrd made political history as the first black woman to serve in the Wyoming Legislature

Tuesday, June 09, 2020

Sierra Rhone Byrd, granddaughter of Liz Byrd, remembers visiting her grandmother every summer during Cheyenne Frontier Days. “She would take me and all of my extended family to the parades, rodeos and carnival," Sierra said. "But no matter what we did or where we went, one thing I will always remember is sitting with her after dinner and drinking her very, very sweet iced tea as she told me stories about her life and the people she had met and the amazing places she had gone. Continue reading here.

Airport is Link to Family Heritage and Local Access

Friday, May 22, 2020

This is the second article in a feature on the Women Business Leaders of Upton Growing up in northeastern Wyoming, Lori Olson has fond memories of flying with her father. Trips to visit her older siblings at college or just for general transportation around the area were common. After learning of plans to decommission the Upton Municipal Airport nearly a decade ago, Olson, her brother and a newly formed airport board worked to save the small airstrip, initially as a way to preserve those childhood memories. But she soon learned it was much more than that. “What really started as a rescu...

Business Council creating business relief grant programs

Thursday, May 21, 2020

For release May 20, 2020 The Wyoming Business Council staff is spearheading the creation of the Wyoming business relief programs and working to ensure a smooth and simple process for Wyoming's small-business owners. The Wyoming Legislature passed a bill on May 16 that created three grant programs to distribute $325 million of Wyoming's $1.25 billion allocation from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to Wyoming small-business owners who have experienced hardship related to the coronavirus pandemic. The Business Council's financing experts are currently working with Wyoming businesses and associations to understand and address specific nuances, write rules and finalize a process to distribute and track funds. The Business Council expects t...

“Best Schools on Earth”

Thursday, May 21, 2020

By Gazette Assistant Publisher/Editor Nicholas Trandahl I’m writing this not as a newspaperman or resident of Upton, but as a father of three daughters, one of which is in middle school and one of which is about to embark on her high school years. I wanted to express in this editorial my sincerest and deepest and gratitude to the Weston County School District #7 (WCSD#7) Trustees, Superintendent Clark Coberly, the principals and faculty of Upton schools, and most especially former Superintendent Summer Stephens for implementing adapted personalized learning in our district for the last several years. In doing so, I believe tha...

How One Major Trade Group is Tackling the Worker Shortage Crisis

Thursday, May 07, 2020

Coming off a record-setting run for economic development in Wisconsin, what is former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch planning to do for an encore? Just last week, we learned the answer. Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Wisconsin announced Nov. 12 that Kleefisch would become the organization’s official “Jobs Ambassador,” a role she intends to use to promote careers in the skilled trades. ABC is a national U.S. trade association representing the non-union construction industry. Click here to read full article.

Recognizing Economic Developers in May

Thursday, May 07, 2020

May 4-9 is International Economic Development Week (EDW). It’s an opportune time to reflect on the importance of local economic development efforts in building a vibrant and sustainable community. In Upton, economic vitality starts at Upton Economic Development Board (UEDB). The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) created EDW in 2016 to help raise awareness for the profession. Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) are often misunderstood because their activities happen behind the scenes, outside of the public eye. EDW is a chance to recognize economic developers, local leaders and organizations that work to recruit investors, develop businesses, create jobs, enhance the tax base an...

Why a U.S. Recession May Be Further Away Than You Think

Thursday, May 07, 2020

With all the media talk over a looming recession, is it time to start worrying about one? The answer is an emphatic “no,” says Dr. Ted C. Jones, chief economist and senior vice president for Stewart Title Guaranty Company in Houston. Citing economic indicators from real estate sectors, American industry and the larger economy, Jones told an audience of 185 people in North Port, Florida, earlier this month that virtually all major signs point to continued expansion of the U.S. economy through at least 2020. Click here to read full article.

Business Council welcomes four new staff members

Saturday, April 18, 2020

The Business Council recently welcomed four new employees. We sat down with each of them to learn more about the strengths they bring to the team. Read the article here.

5 Tips To Write An Email Customers Will Actually Open During A Crisis

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Customer communication during COVID-19 is critical. Important information about changes to the customer experience, policy changes, and safety tips are often best communicated to customers in email. Today people are home, and they are connected on their desktop computers, tablets and mobile devices more than ever. More than half of Americans check their personal email more than 10 times a day. Email marketing has also been linked to a high ROI, increased sales and improved customer retention. But at the same time, email across all industries has just a 17.8% open rate - and that is even high in some industries. By 2021 nearly 32...

COVID-19: What Should Employers Consider As They Adapt Their Background Screening Program?

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Businesses continue to operate despite the global reach of COVID-19. And while some industries are seeing a momentary downturn in hiring, others are experiencing a seemingly insatiable need for talent. From workers supporting the supply chain to healthcare professionals on the frontlines of the battle against COVID-19, the need to identify and onboard workers is more critical now than ever. And for many organizations that are experiencing a lull in hiring, the shift to remote work presents new risks that may have been previously unconsidered. Workers who are out of sight should not be out of mind. Click here to read full article.

Postponing Your Appraisal Until After Closing? New Emergency Rules Make It Possible For Certain Borrowers.

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Three federal banking regulators came together this week to announce a temporary suspension of appraisals for credit-worthy borrowers while the country prepares for the economic impact of COVID-19. The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency issued a joint statement saying, “...the completion of appraisals and evaluations required under the agencies’ appraisal regulations may be deferred by a regulated institution for up to 120 days from the date of closing. The temporary deferrals apply to all residential and commercial real estate secured transactions, including loans for new money or refinancin...

President Signs Two Broadband Bills

Thursday, April 16, 2020

On March 24, President Trump signed two bills designed to enhance the availability and security of 5G and other broadband services. The first bill, the “Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability Act” or the “Broadband DATA Act” requires the FCC to develop rules for fixed, satellite and mobile broadband providers to create and update accurate maps of broadband coverage across the country, and to prohibit broadband providers “from selling, leasing, or otherwise disclosing for monetary consideration any personally identifiable information to any other entity other than for purposes authorized under this title.” Especially in these times when people are force...

Lindholm and Driskill To Hold Town Halls

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

By Gazette Assistant Publisher/Editor Nicholas Trandahl Over the next couple weeks, our District 1 Legislators, Representative Tyler Lindholm and Senator Ogden Driskill, will be hosting online town hall meetings on Facebook Live and YouTube. The first will be held on Facebook Live on Friday, April 17th, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Visit either Legislator’s Facebook page or the Gazette Face- book page for a link to the event. The online town halls will go into details about the 2020 Legislative Session, with both District 1 Legislators going into detail about Wyoming legislation. These alternative town halls are an excellent opportunit...

Ten Things We Need To Know About Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Securities (CARES) Act, a $2.3 trillion relief package designed to help individuals and businesses weather the economic damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The headliner of the CARES Act was the creation of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a new loan package designed to put $350 billion into the hands of small businesses for use in paying employee wages and other critical expenses over the coming weeks and months. As of the morning of April 15th, nearly $250 billion in cash had made its way t...

Survey: Nearly 35% of Wyoming Businesses Plan to Decrease Workforce

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Over a third of Wyoming businesses are planning layoffs amid the coronavirus pandemic and closure orders or recommendations implemented in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. In addition, 88.5% of businesses in the state anticipate revenue loss, according to a statewide survey conducted by the Wyoming Business Alliance. A total of 409 people participated in the survey, representing all 23 counties and representing a variety of businesses, industries and nonprofit organizations, according to a statement from the Alliance. Read the full article here.

Two UW Colleges, Central Wyoming College Offer New Entrepreneurship Program

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Central Wyoming College (CWC) and the University of Wyoming’s College of Business and College of Engineering and Applied Science are extending their partnership to support Wyoming’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, continuing a statewide education program called Entrepreneur Essentials. After hosting a successful pilot program this past fall throughout the state, Entrepreneur Essentials is ready to provide educational tools to help statewide entrepreneurs build a solid foundation for launching and growing successful businesses. Entrepreneur Essentials is a hybrid version of the highly successful CWC Start-Up Intensive (SUI) program, with in-person sessions and online learning. Read the full article here.

UW Ranks Among Most Affordable Institutions to Earn Online Doctorate in Education

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

The doctoral programs in education at the University of Wyoming have been ranked No. 8 on a list of the 25 most affordable universities to earn an online doctorate in education. This new ranking by the website Online U further highlights the commitment the UW College of Education has made to serving students throughout Wyoming and the world via hybrid and fully online degree programs. Earlier this year, U.S. News & World Report listed the college in the top 100 online programs in education for 2020, and Intelligent.com ranked the college’s online master’s program in learning, design and technology as No. 18 out of 19...

Wyoming Foods Coalition growing with local virtual farmers markets

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Adam Bunker didn’t know what the end product would look like when he locked himself in his room nearly a month ago to create a virtual farmers market for his father-in-law’s business. In three days, he implemented an online market — an avenue for Papa Joe’s Produce to supply Wyoming shoppers with local product in a time of social distancing. Bunker’s bedroom vision has come to fruition by connecting consumers with meats, produce, canned goods, eggs, dairy, salsa, coffee and more from nine Wyoming producers in just its third week. The virtual farmers market’s success can be, at least in part...

Wyoming man dies of COVID-19; state was last without a death

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — A Wyoming man has become the state's first person to die of the coronavirus. For almost two weeks, Wyoming was the only U.S. state without known deaths from the virus causing the COVID-19 illness. The Johnson County man's death was announced Monday by the Wyoming Department of Health. The man had health conditions that put him at higher risk of complications from the virus and he'd been hospitalized in Buffalo, health officials said. Read the complete article here.

A Bitcoin Bastion In The Wild West

Thursday, April 02, 2020

Eight years ago, Caitlin Long was a card-carrying member of the financial establishment. As head of Morgan Stanley’s pension advisory group, she oversaw the retirement funds for dozens of employers. The dust from the impact of the Great Recession, which wiped out billions of dollars in market value from her clients, was just beginning to settle. The Harvard Law grad, who cut her teeth doing mergers and acquisition work at Salomon Brothers, tried to understand what went wrong and if anything could be done to prevent another collapse. The problem was, no one really knew what happened. Loans had been mad...

How To Reinvent Your Business To Thrive After The Coronavirus

Thursday, April 02, 2020

Business has changed, perhaps forever, due to the coronavirus. Once we emerge from this crisis, business managers can reinvent their product offerings to survive in the post-coronavirus economy in four steps: deconstruction, imagination, testing, and prototyping. At the heart of this method is evidence-based decision-making. To start, let’s admit the obvious disruptions to existing businesses: supply chains are missing a link; company owners have little cash on hand; employees are eager but scared; consumer confidence is low except for staple products and services; and consumer habits haved shifted to online-only channels. Read more here.

Governor announces availability of Layoff Aversion Grants to Wyoming businesses

Saturday, March 28, 2020

Governor Mark Gordon announced today that the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS) and the Wyoming Workforce Development Council (WWDC) are offering $300,000 in grants to support businesses in order to avert or shorten layoffs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Wyoming. "I am working tirelessly to find and deploy tools to strengthen Wyoming businesses during these challenging times," said Governor Mark Gordon. "Wyoming’s Layoff Aversion grants provide some relief to businesses while keeping employees working." Click here to view the complete release.

Woman plans to open nation’s first digital bank in Cheyenne

Friday, March 27, 2020

CHEYENNE – After 22 years of success on Wall Street, Laramie native Caitlin Long returned to the state last year, bringing big dreams of blockchain’s capabilities in Wyoming. Long announced Monday that she plans to open Avanti, a bank solely for digital assets like cryptocurrency that could be the first of its kind in the nation. As the company’s founder and CEO, she plans to open it in Cheyenne. Click here to read full article.

UW Education Now More Accessible, Affordable for Wyoming Students

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

The cost of higher education has risen in recent years, leaving many prospective students wondering if college is right for them. The University of Wyoming has implemented new financial pledges to alleviate the stress of that decision. UW’s mission is to provide Wyoming citizens with an education that is both affordable and accessible, and new financial aid packages help fulfill that promise. The Cowboy Commitment, approved in fall 2019 by the UW Board of Trustees, is a financial pledge that includes both merit- and need-based funding to offset education costs for in-state students and families. It will be given to incomin...

WCSD#7 Is offering free lunches and breakfasts to all children ages 18 and under

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

WCSD#7 Is offering free lunches and breakfasts to all children ages 18 and under. Lunches and breakfast for the next day will be handed out at the same time. Lunches can be picked up at the Elementary School Front Door between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM. Bus students can contact their building principals if they need lunches and/or learning materials delivered. Please contact Angie at 468-2461 if you have any questions. All community youth are encouraged to take advantage of this program regardless of need. This community service is sponsored by the Summer Food Service Program for the Children.

Census Bureau Updates

Monday, March 23, 2020

NEW Faith Leaders Came Together to promote the 2020 Census See the video and join us March 27-29 for the Census Faith Weekend NEW “Respond Now” button on 2020census.gov The button will be prominent on the site once the invitation to participate is delivered to households beginning March 12. In addition to providing education and outreach materials that explain what the census is and why it’s important to respond, there are dedicated pages in 59 languages that are easy to get to and will include important video and print guides on how to complete the census questionnaire. NEW 2020 Census Advertising Campaign Expands to Reach Al...

PFL Railcar: COVID-19 Update

Monday, March 23, 2020

Folks, as most of you know, there is a battle going on out there amid the COVID -19 outbreak, as it continues to create havoc across the world. Things seem to go from bad to worse as lockdowns across the nation intensifies and people are forced to work from home. Millions of people have either lost their jobs this past week or will. Click here for the complete update.

SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Wyoming Small Businesses Economically Impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Monday, March 23, 2020

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to Wyoming small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza announced today. SBA acted under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, to declare a disaster following a request received from Gov. Mark Gordon on March 17, 2020. The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in the entire state of Wyoming and the neighboring counties below. Neighboring Colorado counties: Jackson, Larimer, Moffat, Rout...

Weston News SBA Ofrece Asistencia de Desastres a los Pequeños Negocios de Wyoming Impactados Económicamente por Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Sunday, March 22, 2020

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – La Administración Federal de Pequeños Negocios (SBA por sus siglas en inglés) está ofreciendo préstamos federales de desastres a bajos intereses para proporcionar capital de trabajo a los pequeños negocios de Wyoming que sufren pérdidas económicas sustanciales como resultado del Coronavirus (COVID-19), anunció hoy la Administradora Jovita Carranza. SBA decidió bajo su propia autoridad, según lo dispuesto en la Ley de Preparación y Respuesta al Coronavirus recientemente firmada por el Presidente, declarar un desastre a raíz de una solicitud recibida por el Gobernador Mark Gordon el 17 de marzo de 2020. La declaración de desastre pone a l...

Coronavirus oil crash: What it means for one state

Friday, March 20, 2020

Wyoming lawmakers built a balanced budget around oil dollars last week. Then the price of crude fell. The crash, which is ongoing, is linked to the turf war between Russia and Saudi Arabia and the global response to the novel coronavirus. An economic freeze caused by the pandemic could do lasting damage to states like Wyoming, which are dependent on energy revenues to fund everything from education to health care. The state is particularly vulnerable now. Wyoming's coal industry — the largest in the country — is fractured. The state's gas production is hitting historic lows. Click here for the complete article.

Governor declares state of emergency in Wyoming

Friday, March 13, 2020

Gov. Mark Gordon declared a state of emergency in Wyoming on Friday afternoon, hours before the state confirmed its second case of the novel coronavirus and days after Colorado and Montana took similar steps amid the nationwide spread of the viral disease. “Although we have only one confirmed case of COVID-19 in Wyoming, I have taken this action to ensure we are prepared in the event additional steps need to be taken,” Gordon said before the second case was announced. By 8:15 Friday night, the state had confirmed that an additional patient was infected with coronavirus. “We continue to be mos...

Sen. Hank Coe announces retirement

Friday, March 13, 2020

Wyoming State Sen. Hank Coe (R-Cody) announced Friday he will retire after his current term. The announcement came jointly with that of fellow long-serving Sen. Eli Bebout (R-Riverton). The two have combined to serve more than 60 years in state legislature. Click here to read full article.

Wyoming Women's Business Center introduces 'Starting a Business With $5,000 or Less' MicroLoan Program

Friday, March 13, 2020

he Wyoming Women's Business Center introduced people to its 'Starting a Business with $5,000 or Less' MicroLoan program. They received a grant from the US Department of Agriculture to reach out to rural communities in Wyoming, giving them the chance to grant potential business owners up to $5,000. “We’re just another opportunity to get financing for their business,” Executive Director, Debbie Gorski said. Click here to read full article.

Take Survey! Wyoming Business Council - Rural Development Outreach

Thursday, March 12, 2020

The Business Council’s purpose is to create new opportunities for current and future generations of Wyomingites. To do this, we need to meet the economic development needs of all communities. 90% of Wyoming communities are rural, less than 10,000 people. These communities are important to the WBC so one of our initiatives in the new Strategy Refresh is to create a clear and flexible path for Rural communities to develop their economies. We are taking the information from our public meetings last fall and doing a deeper dive into how we can meet the needs of our rural communities. We ar...

Wyoming Business Tips for March 16-22

Thursday, March 12, 2020

A strategic plan is a written document used to focus a small business’s plans for the future. It summarizes its goals and clarifies why they’re important. The strategic planning process also helps small businesses pinpoint the areas in which they need to improve in order to operate at their fullest potential. Put simply, the process of strategic planning is the blueprint for building a small business’s foundation for success. Despite its importance, only a small percentage of small businesses take the time to consistently plan strategically, due to the widespread belief that strategic planning is a complicated, time-consuming process that i...

Wyoming may soon own a chunk of northern Utah

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Wyoming could become one of Utah’s largest mineral holders under a massive land deal the Cowboy State is exploring with a leading Western energy producer. Gov. Mark Gordon is looking to buy at least 4 million acres of mineral rights and 1 million surface acres along Interstate 80 across southern Wyoming and into northern Utah, land the debt-burdened Occidental Petroleum Corp. acquired last year when it merged with Anadarko Petroleum, Utah’s largest natural gas producer. Click here to read full article.

Cheyenne LEADS announces Betsey Hale as CEO of Cheyenne LEADS

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Brian Heithoff, Cheyenne LEADS Chairman of the Board is announcing that Betsey Hale has been named as the new CEO of Cheyenne LEADS. Hale currently serves as the President of Three Rivers Development Corporation located in Corning, NY. Three Rivers is a 54-year-old economic and community development organization which serves a three-county region in the Finger Lakes Wine Country. Prior to her work in New York State, Hale was the Business Development Manager for the City of Loveland, Colorado from 2006-2011 and their Economic Development Director from 2011-2015. Click here to read full article.

Governor Signs Proclamation for SBDC Day in Wyoming

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Gov. Mark Gordon signed a proclamation last week designating Wednesday, March 18, as Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Day in Wyoming. SBDC Day recognizes the work of the nearly 1,000 accredited SBDC programs in the country, and Wyoming entrepreneurs will join thousands across the United States in celebrating their local SBDC. Click here to read full article.

Senate proposes business-heavy school-review committee

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

The Senate is advancing legislation to create an advisory committee loaded with business and industry representatives to study the state’s educational programming. The committee would work parallel to lawmakers as the Legislature embarks on this year’s regularly scheduled review of what Wyoming’s public schools offer and the formula that determines the necessary level of funding. Click here to read full article.

Eastern Shoshone Tribe Weighs Entering The Cannabis Market

Monday, March 09, 2020

The Eastern Shoshone Tribe could soon take steps to launch its own cannabis business on the Wind River Reservation. The tribe's General Council, a governing body composed of all tribal members over the age of 18, will take up the issue during a meeting on Saturday?, March 14. Several tribal members have been researching the issue since September. That group - called So-go-Beah Naht-Su', Shoshone for Mother Earth's Medicine - has been looking at potential business opportunities within the industrial hemp industry, and at the possibility of legalizing medical marijuana use and production on the reservation. Click here to read full article.

What Should High-Growth Companies Look for in a Community?

Monday, March 09, 2020

I'll start off by stating the obvious…you’re reading this article because you understand the importance of selecting the optimal business location. I believe this to be true across the board, regardless of industry sector, company size, facility type (i.e. headquarters, distribution center, etc.) or other factors. But perhaps it is most important to entrepreneurs and high-growth startup companies (herein referred to collectively as entrepreneurial companies). While companies listed on the Fortune 500 list may initially come to mind when thinking about corporate site selection projects, entrepreneurial companies have increasingly begun to recognize the value of utilizing a systematic evaluation proces...

Tips for Navigating Incentives in Site Selection Process

Saturday, March 07, 2020

More Collaboration Expected Compared to 10 years ago, there have some notable changes to today’s site selection process. I think one of the more important changes is the incentive package. The kinds of incentives offered a company 10 or 15 years ago, or maybe even five years ago, are going to be very different than what they're going to receive right now. Unemployment's really, really low right now, so communities aren’t as concerneddon't care right now about the number of jobs. It's about the quality of the jobs and how they're going to impact their community. Even the approach taken working wit...

Emergency Preparedness and Response: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Friday, March 06, 2020

Chinese authorities have confirmed an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a new coronavirus (COVID-19) first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China in early December 2019. Currently there are hundreds of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan City, with additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally. The first case in the United States was announced on January 21, 2020. U.S. Travel is in close contact with authorities at the White House, Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Homeland Security and officials at several U.S. airports about ongoing developments and how ou...

Less than 4 Minutes of Business Updates from Jon Schallert

Friday, March 06, 2020

Some of you know I’m a perfectionist (just like many of you reading this). I stared at my computer screen for over 5 minutes, trying to think of a title for this blog post, and finally, just typed “Less than 4 Minutes of Updates from Jon Schallert”. As Lou Heckler once said: “Done is better than perfect”. I have a few things to tell you in the less than 4 minutes I have: First, we have a hamster-escaping-his-wheel t-shirt winner for the best first sentence that describes what their business is. The winner’s name and entry are at the end of this blo...

Powell company to become state’s first hemp processor

Thursday, March 05, 2020

POWELL — A Powell business is set to become the first hemp production and processing operation in the state of Wyoming, though the company’s plans were nearly blocked by the Powell City Council Monday night. GF Harvest, which produces gluten free oat products, announced this week that it intends to add hemp-based foods. The company has the distinction of being the very first licensed hemp producer and hemp processor under Wyoming’s new hemp rules, which the U.S. Department of Agriculture approved last month. Click here to read full article.

‘Can-Do’ Upton is Perfect for Business

Thursday, March 05, 2020

The town of Upton sits in northeastern Wyoming in the Black Hills, about 100 miles from Rapid City. Residents embrace their place away from the fast lane of big-city life, where they’ve come to be known as a community with a business-friendly ‘Can-Do’ attitude. “We’re a tight-knit group of people who volunteer for the community,” said former Upton Mayor Tom Barritt. “We roll up our sleeves to get things done for our businesses.” There is an amazing amount of community pride in Upton, Stephanie Salazar, Executive Director of the Upton Economic Development Board. “From young to old, the entire community comes together t...

State preparing for coronavirus, Gordon says

Wednesday, March 04, 2020

CHEYENNE — While no cases of the COVID-19 virus had been reported in Wyoming as of Tuesday afternoon, Gov. Mark Gordon hosted a news conference to update the public on the steps the state is taking to prepare in case of an outbreak. COVID-19 is the new version of the coronavirus that appeared late last year in Wuhan, China. It is a respiratory virus that has symptoms similar to the common cold, including fever, cough and shortness of breath. Symptoms usually appear two to 14 days after viral exposure, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Click here t...

Best and Worst States for Business (Wyoming #10!)

Friday, February 28, 2020

Like several of the top 10 best states for business, Wyoming’s high ranking on this list is due in large part to its business costs. The Tax Foundation ranked the state as having the most favorable tax climate for businesses in the country. The state’s infrastructure is also a positive for businesses and workers alike. Wyoming has the shortest average commute time to work, and among the lowest cost to the trucking industry from road congestion. Click here to view the complete rankings!

Array's groundbreaking apprenticeship paves the way for tech careers

Thursday, February 27, 2020

CHEYENNE – Apprenticeships help train individuals for skilled careers, and are commonly used by electricians, plumbers and carpenters. But as Wyoming is increasingly focused on diversifying its economy, the staff at Cheyenne’s Array School of Technology and Design hope to pave the way for apprenticeships in the world of technology. Array CEO Eric Trowbridge announced Wednesday that the state’s first accelerated technology and design school will launch an apprenticeship program that’s the first of its kind in Wyoming. Those with a passion for coding can apply to be an apprentice for Array’s partnering companies, and those who are accepted will b...

Wyoming Business Tips

Thursday, February 27, 2020

Successful businesses are the result of years of hard work, determination and sacrifice by business owners and their families. As such, most business owners want to preserve the product of their hard work for the benefit of their families and loved ones after they’re gone. They also want to ensure their business does not falter or fail after their retirement or death, if the business can remain viable. Proper estate planning can help achieve both goals. Click here to read full article.

Wyoming House Passes Bill Mandating Freight Train Crew Sizes

Thursday, February 27, 2020

The Wyoming House of Representatives advanced legislation to the Senate that would mandate crews of two persons or more on all class-one freight trains in the state. The vote Thursday is considered a significant win for labor on a topic many consider to be a collective bargaining issue, The Casper Star-Tribune reports. Click here to read full article.

USDA Brings Telehealth And Distance Learning Grants To Wyoming

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

A new program from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making it easier for rural area students and patients to connect with teachers and medical professionals around the globe, making healthcare and education services and information available via electronic and telecommunication technologies in a way they weren’t before. Groups across the state are already seeing the benefits of such funding. For example, Care United Medical Center of Laramie utilized funds to establish a primary care network at 21 rural pharmacies throughout Wyoming, which has improved health care access for roughly 90,000 Wyoming citizens already. Click here to read full article.

NEW DIRECTOR SELECTED TO LEAD UW SCHOOL OF ENERGY RESOURCES

Friday, February 21, 2020

A scientist and administrator who has spent much of her career advancing carbon capture has been selected to lead the University of Wyoming’s School of Energy Resources. Holly Krutka, currently the vice president for coal generation and emissions technologies with Peabody, will succeed Mark Northam as the SER’s executive director, according to a statement from the University. Northam is retiring after nearly 13 years at the helm, as the SER’s founding director. Krutka’s appointment was approved Wednesday by the UW Board of Trustees, following a national search by UW’s Energy Resources Council, which advises SER on priorities for research and outreach. Click her...

Wyoming Is Considering A Massive Land Purchase That Could Bring Wealth To The State

Monday, February 17, 2020

The State of Wyoming is working on a massive land deal that would involve one million square acres across southern Wyoming. Occidental Petroleum is trying to sell the land that is commonly known as the Union Pacific checkerboard. The state sees it as a rare opportunity to acquire mineral, recreation and other types of assets in Wyoming and other states. Governor Mark Gordon said his office and others have been working on the sale for six months. Click here to read full article.

Hemp regulations coming along

Saturday, February 01, 2020

While other areas in the state have seen multiple booms, busts and re-booms in the energy industry, in agriculture and in other industries, Goshen County – which has no real energy development to speak of, and where agriculture has become a break-even proposition for many – good news has been scarce. But at the Goshen County Hemp Summit on Friday, there were inklings that perhaps some good news could be coming to the southeast corner of the state. Click here for the complete article.

Real Estate Business Caters To Conservatives Looking For 'Redder' Pastures

Saturday, February 01, 2020

April Poley is a broker and real estate agent in Gillette, Wyoming. Lately she's been getting a lot of her potential clients through a business called Conservative Move. "Really it's a referral service," Poley said. "People go through that website. They say what states they're interested in, and then if they mentioned Wyoming, they get forwarded on to me." Poley said what she hears is pretty consistent: Buyers are looking for somewhere high on Second Amendment rights, and low on taxes. Click here for the complete article.

Wisconsin High Schooler Asks Legislators: “Does Wyoming Exist?”

Saturday, February 01, 2020

The email sent to the 60 members of the state Legislature could have been ironic, maybe even a little condescending — coming from a Wisconsin high school senior who claimed his Advanced Placement U.S. Government and Politics teacher had asked him and his classmates to prove that Wyoming does not exist. “If you, as a State Assembly Member, could confirm that the State of Wyoming does not exist, this would be extremely helpful in our endeavor,” the teenager wrote. The wisecracks get old – about Wyoming not existing on the map, Wyoming having more horse than car parking, Wyoming having a higher populatio...

Wisconsin High Schooler Asks Legislators: “Does Wyoming Exist?”

Saturday, February 01, 2020

Wyoming Beef: Big Marketing Opportunities with Farm-to-Table Movement

Saturday, February 01, 2020

Cattle outnumber people nearly two-to-one in Wyoming, but buying beef identified as locally raised can be a challenge, a Wyoming Stock Growers Association spokesperson said. “These animals often get shipped out as calves, and they might even come back as yearlings, but they lose their identity as Wyoming beef,” said Jim Magagna, the Stock Growers Association’s executive vice president. “You may have eaten a lot of them throughout your life, but you’d never know it.” A trickle-down affect of the farm-to-table trend is an American curiosity about where food comes from and a desire to consume locally produced vittles. This curiosity i...

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