News

Black Hills Power Justifies Rate Increases to Town Council

Thursday, December 19, 2019

By Gazette Publisher/ Editor Nicholas Trandahl On Tuesday, December 10th, several employees of Black Hills Energy (BHE) came before the Upton Town Council during the Council’s regular meeting to give an update as well as to address any concerns the Town may have. The elephant in the room, of course, was BHE’s rate hikes. No members of the public that have publicly expressed concern over the rate increases attended the meeting to hear the information or ask BHE questions directly. At the August meeting of the Upton Town Council, City Clerk/Treasurer Kelley Millar informed the Council and those present that BH...

WYOMING’S ADULT EDUCATION 7TH BEST IN NATION

Thursday, December 12, 2019

The U.S. Department of Education Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education administration and the National Reporting System ranked Wyoming’s program 7th in the nation’s among st adult education programs. Wyoming’s Adult Education program is jointly offered by all of the state’s community colleges, including Northwest College. The state’s Adult Education (AE) program is administered through the Wyoming Community College Commission, has a long history of serving the people of Wyoming through AE instruction and High School Equivalency preparation programs. Wyoming AE offers academic instruction, college and career readiness skills, English as a second language classes for English language learners and more...

Lawmakers seek to develop more school trust lands

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Facing diminishing fossil-fuel income, lawmakers want Wyoming to take a proactive approach to develop some of the state’s 3.6 million acres of trust lands, and recently backed a bill to jump-start that initiative. Supported by a legislative committee, the draft bill would require the Office of State Lands and Investments to solicit proposals for the “sale, transfer, lease, development or exchange” on school trust and other state trust lands. The deadline for soliciting the proposals would be Aug. 1, 2020. By October, the office would submit a plan for development, including commercial, retail, industrial, agricultural, recreational and residential development. The development woul...

A Dog's Death In Wyoming Highlights The Dangers Of Toxic Algae Blooms

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

One day last June, Susannah Roberts and her boyfriend, Reilly Davis, drove out to Leazenby Lake, just outside of Laramie, Wyoming. They had their black lab Teton with them, and they fished in the clear water. Roberts remembers Teton running between the two of them, she on the shore and Davis, wearing waders, standing in the water. "And I looked over," Roberts recalls, "and it looked like [Teton] had stumbled." He'd collapsed, and he couldn't get up. So Roberts and Davis rushed Teton to their veterinarian's office. Click here for the complete article.

CAREER EXPLORATION BARBECUE

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Weston County School District #7, TeamMates Mentoring, Upton Chamber of Commerce, and Upton Economic Development Board hosted a Career Exploration Barbecue at Upton High School on November 21, 2019. The event connects high school students and their parents/guardians with area employers to learn about skills and education requirements for the jobs they provide. Also, in attendance were college representatives to share information about post-secondary programs and resources to support student career goals. Many prizes were handed out during the event from cash, headphones, gas cards, local hardware gift cards, apple and google gift cards. Huge thank you to the businesses tha...

Colorado State at Wyoming: Three things we learned

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

This time a year ago, Levi Williams was getting ready to sign early with Houston. He followed through with that, but once the Cougars made a coaching change in January, Williams was released from his National Letter of Intent and instead chose Wyoming. It’s hard to imagine where the Cowboys would’ve been Friday night had that not happened. With running backs Trey Smith, Titus Swen and quarterback Sean Chambers already out with injuries and Xazavian Valladay nicked up from the workload he’s had to tote in their absence, Wyoming’s vaunted rushing attack desperately needed another option. Williams, who hadn’t played all season, wa...

Company says Wyoming needs to be all-in on carbon recapture

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

If Wyoming’s coal industry is going to survive, the state and all of its counties need to be united and fully support carbon capture technology. That was the message two men from Glenrock Petroleum had for Campbell County Commissioners at their regular meeting Tuesday. Glenrock Petroleum seeks to become the nation’s first carbon-negative upstream exploration and production company. It formed to develop oil fields that were bought in 2016. It became apparent that the fields would be conducive to CO2 floods, a process where carbon dioxide is injected into an oil field to increase the amount of oil extracted. Click here for th...

Deacon “Coach” John R. Deti

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Longtime Laramie resident John Reid Deti, 80, died on Thursday, November 21, 2019 in Cheyenne. John was born in Laramie on August 2, 1939 to John and Marguerite “Babe” Deti. He attended Laramie High School, where he excelled in athletics. He was an All-State football player at quarterback and led the Plainsmen to the state championship in 1957. He was All-State in basketball, and took second place in the state wrestling tournament as a freshman. John earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Chadron State University, and a master’s degree in education as well as a Juris Doctorate from the University o...

Leadership Wyoming honors founder, adds board members

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Leadership Wyoming kicked off celebrating its 20th year as a leadership program with a series of events last week in Cheyenne. The first-ever Alumni Summit was held Nov. 14 and included 150 Leadership Wyoming alumni in attendance. “Watching Leadership Wyoming alumni connect and inspire each other is like watching lightning in a bottle,” Executive Director Mandy Fabel said in a press release. “It is a powerful group of leaders who are committed to each other and to Wyoming. The outcome of the Summit’s conversations will no-doubt be seen for many years to come.” During the evening of Nov. 14, Leadership Wyoming co-hosted a reception with th...

Luxury resort affects local community

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Locals have known for generations what makes the Upper North Platte River Valley special: 360-degree sunsets in colors so vivid they seem unreal, sagebrush taller than a grown man, untouched terrain that spans the Sierra Madres and alpine lakes at 10,000 feet. Regional treasures go by appropriate acronyms. The GEM, for example, is short for the Grand Encampment Museum. For decades, Carbon County was one of Wyoming’s best-kept secrets, but as of late, some of the world’s elite have started to take notice. Just this summer, Katy Perry, Orlando Bloom and Princess Beatrice of York visited what was once empty prairie, bu...

State may look at expanding gambling enforcement

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Nearly all gambling in Wyoming is illegal, but what agency investigates infractions and enforces the law in cases of legalized gambling – or who investigates when an illegal form of gambling is uncovered in Wyoming – remains unclear. Some have said there are more than 400 illegal slot machines operating in the state, and there is no one central clearinghouse for enforcement. The cost to investigate a single illegal slot machine can be exorbitant, and local agencies have been hesitant to foot the bill. As such, in early October, the Wyoming Legislature’s Joint Travel, Recreation and Cultural Resources Interim Committee voted t...

WWAMI Medical Student Compares Seattle to Laramie for Outcomes in Medical Education

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

While the curriculum of WWAMI (Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana and Idaho) is advertised as being identical at each of the partnering states’ campuses, students and stakeholders of the program can’t help but wonder what things are unique to each site -- both positive and negative. In terms of patient populations, Seattle students have exposure to cases drawing from a population that is close to 750,000 people, compared to just under 35,000 residents of Laramie. Recently, Seattle WWAMI student Sandra Ritchie experienced both anatomy lab and classroom medical instruction in Laramie. During July, Ritchie participated in the University of Washington School of Medicine’...

Wyoming Second Fastest-Growing State in Second Quarter of 2019

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

According to the United States Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), Wyoming experienced the second-fastest growth in GDP in the second quarter of 2019, with a 4.2 percent increase – just behind Texas (4.7) and ahead of Alaska (4.1) and New Mexico (4.1). The BEA cited natural resource development as the leading contributor to the economic growth in Wyoming, as well as in Texas, Alaska, and New Mexico. “This report from the Bureau of Economic Analysis confirms what we already know here in Wyoming,” said Pete Obermueller, President of the Petroleum Association of Wyoming. “Resource development and specifically oil and natural gas, continues to be th...

WYOMING STUDENTS HAVE CHANCE TO TALK WITH ISS ASTRONAUTS FROM SPACE

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

The Wyoming Department of Education notified educational institutions around that state of a program that allows amateur radio hosts to contact astronauts aboard the International Space Station on Monday, Nov. 25. “The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station Program is seeking education institutions and organizations, individually or working together, to host an amateur radio contact with a crew member on board the International Space Station (ISS),” the WDE said. “Crew scheduling and ISS orbits will determine the exact contact dates, but the contact will likely be held between July 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020.” Click here for the complete article.

Wyoming Treasurer’s Office seeking to connect owners with unclaimed property

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Like most who are on Wyoming’s unclaimed property list, Bonnie Rice was shocked to find out she had money waiting for her. According to the Wyoming State Treasurer’s office, the state has more than $90 million in unclaimed property belonging Wyoming residents, with more than $790,000 of it belonging to current and former Goshen County citizens. Unclaimed property includes money, stocks, mutual funds and safety deposit boxes which are turned over when a business, agency or government entity isn’t able to locate the owner in a specified time period. Click here for the complete article.

Jobs in Wyoming

Saturday, November 23, 2019

The pay rates for jobs available in Wyoming have increased! See the new rates here. The Census is actively recruiting for positions across Wyoming. Please share the news about jobs and the new rates! Those interested can go to https://2020census.gov/jobs to find more information and to apply.

EWC gunsmithing program off to a strong start

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

The air is filled with the whine of turning metal being cut on a lathe or milling machine, mixed with the scent of oil. For some of the men in the room, it’s the first step to a career. For others, it’s an opportunity for change. And, for at least one of them, the new gunsmithing class at the Eastern Wyoming College campus here, it’s a chance to expand his skill set and fulfill a creative need. “I always wanted to do this,” said Douglas Macdonald. He’s 64 and works during the summer as the caretaker at the Ayres Natural Bridge State Park nort...

Military experience translates well into civilian life, say vets

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

On day one of boot camp, every recruit is taught the values of punctuality, personal grooming and working together, but some lessons gleaned from military experience aren’t as immediately obvious. Ret. U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Luke Reiner, formerly the Wyoming Military Department’s adjutant general, joined the army in 1982 to experience something new, but stayed in as the service reforged his sense of duty. “I thought it would be fun,” Reiner said. “The local (Army National Guard) unit was a combat engineer unit, and they would do cool things with explosives.” Click here for the complete article.

Connolly: A letter to a Girls State participant

Monday, November 11, 2019

I have had the honor of working with Wyoming high school students who participate in Girls and Boys State, a summer leadership and civics program. The kids run for state office, as well as draft and debate policy bills. The issues they choose are some of the most cutting and crucial topics of the day. While the participants rave about the program and their experiences, I am the one who is truly impressed. These kids are our future, and I am in awe of their commitment and passion. My essay on “Hopes and Dreams for Wyoming’s Women and Our Future” i...

State offers support for Wyoming teachers to lead digital-age classrooms

Monday, November 11, 2019

One hundred Wyoming educators will have the opportunity to earn the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Certification for Educators with financial support from the Wyoming Department of Education. The certification is the only competency-based certification focused on digital-age teaching practices. Today’s students are “digital natives,” but need skilled educators who can channel their use of technology for high-impact learning, according to a news release from the WDE. For success in their future, students need to be creators, not just consumers of technology, use digital tools to solve open-ended problems, work in design teams to address real-world issues, and communicate comple...

Wyoming Arts Summit keynotes focus on furthering the arts in rural communities

Monday, November 11, 2019

The chairwoman of the National Endowment for the Arts announced in her keynote address at the Wyoming Arts Summit that this trip to Cheyenne not only marked her first visit to Wyoming, but her 50th state visited as the head of the NEA. “I’d say we left the best for last, but I’m sure there’s some governmental rule that would get me in trouble,” Carter said with a laugh. Carter’s talk was part of a three-day summit at Little America Hotel and Resort offering professional development sessions for artists, arts advocates, administrators and educators. The event, organized by the Wyoming Arts Counci...

Wyoming Trucking Association Scholarship program now accepting applications

Monday, November 11, 2019

The Wyoming Trucking Association Scholarship Program and Trust Fund will be awarding scholarships for the upcoming 2020-21 school year. Scholarships are awarded to graduates of high schools in Wyoming who pursue a higher education in-state (at a Wyoming college, university or trade school) that could lead to a career in the transportation industry. This includes studies in fields such as truck driving, diesel mechanics, accounting, office procedures and management, sales management, business management, computer skills, safety, etc. Click here for the complete article.

Bill to authorize nuclear waste storage talks withdrawn

Thursday, November 07, 2019

A measure that would have allowed the state to negotiate with the federal government over the possible storage of spent nuclear fuel rods in Wyoming was removed from consideration Tuesday by a legislative committee. Members of the Legislature’s Joint Minerals Business and Economic Development Committee agreed to stop work on the bill after its Spent Fuel Rods Subcommittee, formed to examine the issue, met in September. Sen. Jim Anderson, R-Casper, a chairman of both the committee and subcommittee, told committee members that based on what the subcommittee heard during its meeting, legislative authorization for the state to enter into negotiations over spen...

Wyoming Business Tips for Nov. 11-17

Thursday, November 07, 2019

A weekly look at issues facing Wyoming business owners and entrepreneurs from the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, a collection of business assistance programs at the University of Wyoming. By Jill Kline, state director, Wyoming SBDC Network For a state with a small population, resources for Wyoming entrepreneurs are abundant. However, the question from business owners in all stages of their life cycle is often: “That’s great. But where do I start?” The answer is an easy one: Start right here with the Wyoming SBDC Network. This is not a self-serving advertisement piece. The goal of these Biz Tips is t...

Governor Gordon Declares October 'General Aviation Appreciation Month'

Saturday, November 02, 2019

Today, national general aviation organizations applauded Governor Mark Gordon for declaring October “General Aviation Appreciation Month.” In Wyoming, general aviation airports contribute over $73 million in economic impact annually. “General aviation is a critical tool that supports rural communities all throughout Wyoming,” said Selena Shilad, executive director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. “There are 25 public-use general aviation airports in the state of Wyoming, and these airports play an important role in supporting their local and regional economy. We appreciate Governor Gordon for issuing this proclamation that helps to shine a light on the value of general aviation.” “Local airport...

Committee approves education funding boost

Friday, November 01, 2019

Lawmakers voted narrowly Tuesday to approve a recommendation that Wyoming’s public school system be given a $19 million bump and that the recommendation be sent to Gov. Mark Gordon and the broader Legislature. The funding increase comes in the form of an external cost adjustment, which is essentially an inflation increase. The Joint Education Committee approved the recommendation last month and forwarded it to the Joint Appropriations Committee, which oversees Wyoming’s purse strings. Lawmakers in that committee voted Tuesday to approve and forward the recommendation, which — supporters argued — was vital to keeping Wyoming’s education system within constitutional bounds. “We’re constitutionall...

MoFi helps Wyoming small businesses get loans with Path to Bankability program

Friday, November 01, 2019

It’s a pretty common story. You’re looking to start up a small business. You know what you want to do. You’ve written a business plan. Now you just need to secure the funds to get your business started. But then the bank tells you they can’t give you a loan. Normally, this would be incredibly disheartening, meaning you would have to go back to the drawing board and try to find a new way to become bankable. Click here for the complete article.

Three Small Businesses Win Sheridan Start-Up Challenge

Friday, November 01, 2019

A native plant nursery, a traveling physical therapy service and a sports pain relief aid manufacturer are this year's winners of the Sheridan Start-Up Challenge. The regional entrepreneurial contest is hosted by the Sheridan area Wyoming Technology Business Center, which is an economic development program from the University of Wyoming. The winners were selected from among five finalists, who all presented at a community pitch night in Sheridan on Tuesday, Oct. 29. Click here to view the complete article.

Wyoming students testing above national average

Friday, November 01, 2019

An education report released Wednesday shows Wyoming students scored higher than national averages on standardized reading and math tests. Wyoming students outperformed students nationwide on the National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as the Nation’s Report Card, given every two years to fourth- and eighth-grade students. In Wyoming, about 8,900 students took this year’s test across about 210 schools. Click here to view the complete article.

Wyoming looks to ‘revamp’ its economic diversification efforts

Thursday, October 31, 2019

You can expect to see a “complete revamp” of the way that the Wyoming Business Council carries out its economic diversification efforts, Gov. Mark Gordon said Friday. “I don’t want pie in the sky things, I don’t want fairy dust all over the state, what I want is hard-nosed financial consideration about ... the kind of thing that’s very important, that you can measure, that’s actually going to move our state’s economy forward,” Gordon said of the direction he gave to the Business Council earlier this year. One of the ideas the council came up with was to refocus the Business Read...

Federal Grant Will Expand Computer Science Education In Wyoming

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Wyoming hopes to make computer science education available across the state by 2022, and a new federal grant of about a half million dollars is slated to help. The state’s Department of Education is using the grant from its federal counterpart to craft micro-credentials, a kind of certification in specific areas related to computer science or computational thinking. These micro-credentials are useful in both industry and education, and will be available to both students and teachers. Click here for the complete article.

Hathaway changes reflect student, business needs

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Hathaway funding is now within reach for many students in Wyoming’s career and technical education fields. In early 2019, the Legislature passed the Hathaway Scholarship Eligibility Act, which allows students more options for meeting the Hathaway elective requirements. Through early October, the Wyoming Department of Education collected public comment on proposed revisions to the Hathaway Success Curriculum, which students are required to take in order to earn a Hathaway Scholarship. The WDE’s proposed rules reflect provisions designed to accommodate the new law, which called for modification of portions of the Hathaway Scholarship program eligibility requirements. “The law does offer students greater flexibilit...

Women honored as Women of Influence in Casper

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

As a state, we must create opportunities for women to succeed – and we must recognize when they do. “When women succeed, their families succeed and their communities succeed,” Brook Kaufman, CEO of Visit Casper, said to a crowd of about 350 on Sept. 19 at the annual Women of Influence banquet, which honors women across Wyoming each year. One hundred and ten women from around the state were nominated by employees, employers, peers and others as “Women of Influence” this year, and all were honored at the banquet in Casper. Fifteen were named honorees. The honorees fell into 13 categories, with tw...

Sale of Blackjewel mines closes; some employees being called to work

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

The sale of two Powder River Basin coal mines owned by bankrupt operator Blackjewel closed Friday, leading the new owner to begin mobilizing furloughed employees after nearly four months of limited communication. The closure of the sale comes after the takeover firm secured surety bonds required to operate the Eagle Butte and Belle Ayr mines, according to a statement released Monday morning by permit holder Contura Energy. Click here for the complete article.

The Maschhoffs completes deal for Wyoming sow farms

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

The Maschhoffs LLC has acquired a pod of sow farms, nursery and finishing space, a feed mill and a truck wash near Albin, Wyo., in the southeast part of the state. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The addition of these sow farms, which have a total capacity of 13,500 animals, brings The Maschhoffs’ total size to 195,000 sows. Wyoming becomes the seventh state in which The Maschhoffs has a presence. “This purchase supports our operating strategy in the western portion of our system,” says Bradley Wolter, president of The Maschhoffs. “In addition, these farms will benefit from the support of ou...

Census Jobs Create Opportunities for Residents, As Does an Accurate Census Count

Friday, October 18, 2019

Do you know anyone who is looking for a flexible job? The federal government is hiring Census workers in Upton and these jobs offer the opportunity to work in a flexible environment, while simultaneously benefiting the community. Applications are currently being accepted and you can apply here. Census Workers Benefit Our Entire Community Few people realize just how important census workers are to Upton and the surrounding community. Census workers play a direct and vital role in determining how many people live in our area. As a result, they are responsible for helping our community to receive the federal funding we ar...

Gov. Gordon applauds ENDOW council for shaping vision

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Gov. Mark Gordon lauded the vision and leadership of former Wyoming Governor Matt Mead and the Economically Needed Diversity Options for Wyoming Executive Council in a news release, announcing ENDOW’s vision will continue driving state economic diversification efforts as his focus shifts to the next phase, one that includes targeted implementation plans and a transparent analysis of state revenues. Read full article.

Wyoming Business Council board begins nationwide search for new CEO

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

The Wyoming Business Council board of directors has begun its search for a new Chief Executive Officer. The board hopes to have the new CEO in place by the first of the new year. In September, current CEO Shawn Reese, announced his resignation, effective the end of this year. The Business Council's mission is to create new opportunities for current and future generations of Wyomingites by adding value to Wyoming’s core industries and leveraging them to activate new economic sectors. The Business Council serves businesses, entrepreneurs and startups, industry and communities for the benefit of current and future generations of Wyomingites. Read full article.

A burgeoning aerospace and defense industry in Wyoming? Some say it could happen.

Friday, October 11, 2019

The Glenn L. Martin Company, known today as Lockheed Martin, built the first-ever Viking sounding rocket in 1949 for the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, racing against a Cold War-era deadline and grasping at the promise of outer space. They would build 11 more before the program finally shut down in 1954. It was the beginning of a decadeslong relationship that in 2017 alone netted the company more than $35 billion worth of government contracts. The moral? The business of building great big things for the federal government is a lucrative one. Read full article.

Gordon announced changes to economic development effort

Friday, October 11, 2019

At the start of the summer, Gov. Mark Gordon sat down with top officials within the Wyoming’s economic development think tank, Endow, with orders to pare down the group’s ambitious economic development agenda into something smaller and more incremental than the grand 20-year vision crafted under the administration of his predecessor, Matt Mead. Several months later, that agenda appears to be taking shape. This week, Gov. Mark Gordon hinted at some of the early specifics for his re-imagining Endow in an appearance at an aerospace and defense industry conference in Casper – an announcement followed up on in a press release later that afternoon. Clic...

SBDC Wyoming Business Tips for Sept. 23-29

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

A weekly look at issues facing Wyoming business owners and entrepreneurs from the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, a collection of business assistance programs at the University of Wyoming. By Susan Jerke, regional director, Wyoming SBDC Network Congratulations, you’ve made the decision to open a real brick-and-mortar retail store. The main advantage of an independently owned store over online shopping is the opportunity to really connect with customers and give them a chance to touch and try actual products. According to the Specialty Equipment Market Association, “A physical location deepens trust by its mere physical presence. Consumers associate bricks and mortar with legitimacy...

University of Wyoming gets grant money for aircraft research

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

The University of Wyoming has received a $15.8 million National Science Foundation grant that will provide weather instrumentation and other equipment for a new research aircraft the university plans to purchase. UW is the only academic institution in the United States that provides a research aircraft facility to the atmospheric science community. The UW Board of Trustees is asking the State Loan and Investment Board for a loan for up to $4.7 million for the purchase of the aircraft. Click here for the complete article.

An Accurate Census Count Could Mean More Money for Upton and Weston County

Friday, September 20, 2019

The 2020 census could result in the federal government directing more funds towards Upton and Weston County. That’s because for every person missed in the census, a community loses around $1,800 per year until the next census. Not everyone was counted in the 2010 census and so for ten years, Weston County has received less than we could have in federal dollars. As a community member, you can help to ensure we receive every dollar possible by responding to the census takers, or by becoming a census worker. The federal government disburses $675 billion per year to local communities. Those fund...

Arrow Services Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Friday, September 13, 2019

The Frederick family on hand to help celebrate Arrow Service's 50th anniversary were (l-r) Jason Frederick, Lou Frederick, Debbie Douglas, Mason Frederick, Jerry Frederick, Sandee Aune, John Aune and Paul Douglas. Current Arrow Service employees are, back (l-r) Riley Davey, Nancy Dodd, Pam Schilling, Sherry French, Nate Arnett, and Lane Davis. Front (l-r) Mo Welch, Brodie Kelly, Debbie Douglas, Bailey Parrish, Amber Christensen with Kaiser Hiatt and Jensen Kelly. In 1969 Lou and Nancy Frederick purchased Arrow Gas Service from Ted and Margaret Sheehan. The full-service gas station was branded by Sioux and Ted delivered propane. Lou had moved his family to Upton in 195...

New Salon Opens

Friday, September 13, 2019

By Gazette Reporter Brittany Trandahl People in the area now have a new option for their cosmetic needs with the opening of Kimberly Anne’s Hair Design. The new beauty salon is located in the old M & M station on the corner of 2nd Street and Highway 116 with a new location coming soon. The office hours as of right now are Tuesdays through Fridays, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and you can schedule by going to or by appointment at https://square.site/book/0N4QAKQTC440V/kimberly-anne-s-hair-design-upton-wy. Once the salon moves to the new location a ribbon cutting with the Chamber of Commerce will be held. Owner an...

Wyoming education ranked 6th in nation by the National Education Quality Report

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

Education Week’s 23rd annual report card, Quality Counts 2019, ranks Wyoming sixth nationally in education quality - up one spot from seventh nationally in 2018. Once again, Wyoming scored the highest among western states, and first in the nation in school finance. “It is always positive news to see Wyoming at the top of national rankings, and also improving from year to year,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow. Click here for the complete article.

Young Wyomingites gather to engage in leadership

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

Millennials across the country are playing an active role in shaping the future – and young Wyomingites are doing the same. “Millennials are voting,” Gov. Mark Gordon said to a crowd gathered at the Nicolaysen Art Museum in Casper Saturday during the annual ENGAGE Summit. “It turns out that young millennials have a whole spectrum of political attitudes, but the one thing they are doing is they are voting in higher volume than they ever have before,” Gordon said. “The last two elections have seen the largest turnout of millennials anywhere.” Click here for the complete article.

UW Receives Grant to Help Entrepreneurs Develop Innovations

Thursday, September 05, 2019

Entrepreneurs will continue to receive no-cost support from the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network to research and develop their innovations, thanks to a $125,000 grant awarded to the University of Wyoming. This is among only 24 federal and state technology grants awarded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) this year. The Wyoming SBDC Network will use the funds to provide outreach, mentoring and technical assistance to entrepreneurs seeking funding through the SBA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. The Wyoming SBDC Network’s Wyoming SBIR/STTR Initiative (WSSI) last year helped entrepreneurs win more tha...

Colorado, Wyoming Ready for Biotech Jobs Boost with Potential Expansions

Friday, August 23, 2019

The American West could see some significant growth in the number of biotech jobs as companies are eying at least two states for expansions. While the information available so far is vague as to which company may be behind the plan, Boulder, Colo. could see the addition of up to 1,000 biotech-related jobs. Last week, the Colorado Economic Development Commission agreed to provide a “Fortune 500 Company” up to $24.8 million in tax incentives to entice that company into making a capital investment in the area valued at $150 million. According to the Denver Business Journal, the company that is being wooe...

The Best States for Starting a Business in 2019 (Wyoming #1!)

Friday, August 23, 2019

Where you operate your business and where you incorporate do not have to be the same. Just because you live in one state does not mean you have to form your company in that state. There are several reasons residents of one state may actually benefit from incorporating in another state, including costs, privacy and corporate environments. Click here to view the complete rankings.

United States (USA) Trona Market Size & Share, Sector / Industry Report & Analysis, 2018-2025

Monday, August 12, 2019

Trusted Business Insights presents the Latest Study on United States (USA) Trona Market 2019-2025. The report contains market predictions related to market size, revenue, production, CAGR, Consumption, gross margin, price, and other substantial factors. While emphasizing the key driving and restraining forces for this market, the report also offers a complete study of the future trends and developments of the market. It also examines the role of the leading market players involved in the industry including their corporate overview, financial summary, and SWOT analysis. Click here for the complete article.

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.

Gillette College Adds Weekend Welding Certificate In Response To Growing Industry Demand

Tuesday, February 04, 2020

Northern Wyoming Community College District (NWCCD) recently announced the launch of a new one-year welding certificate, with classes offered on Fridays and Saturdays. According to a Jan. 13 press release, this specific certificate was designed to accommodate working adults. “The college is hoping the weekend program will open doors into welding for people working a full-time job,” Gillette College Welding Instructor Troy Miller said. Miller noted that he hopes the program will reach more people and help to fill the workforce gap as the market for welders is strong in Campbell County and across the nation. Click here for the complete 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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