Business and Tourism Reporter

Renée Jean

Renée Jean is the business and tourism reporter for Cowboy State Daily and is based in Cheyenne. Previously, Renée spent seven years covering energy and agriculture in North Dakota and Montana. She has won many writing awards over a 30-year career, and has written magazine articles for Guideposts.

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Latest from Renée Jean

Meier, Gray Believe Land Purchase In Washington Could Open Way For Coal Exports

In an effort to export Wyoming coal to the Pacific Rim, Treasurer Curt Meier and Secretary of State Chuck Gray believe purchasing land in Washington state could give Wyoming the legal standing to make it happen.

Renée JeanMarch 05, 2025

President Donald Trump said Monday, March 3, 2025, there’s no more delaying 25% tariffs that will go into effect on Canada and Mexico on Tuesday. That’s expected to impact Wyoming, which does more business with Canada than any other foreign country.

Wyoming Businesses Wait To See Impact Of Tariffs, Going Into Effect Tuesday

President Trump on Monday said there’s no more delaying 25% tariffs that will go into effect on Canada and Mexico on Tuesday. That’s expected to impact Wyoming, which does more business with Canada than any other foreign country.

Renée JeanMarch 04, 2025

Two Wyoming Trona Mines Bought For $1.4B To Create World’s Largest Producer

London-based WE Soda has bought Genesis Alkali’s two trona mines in southwest Wyoming for $1.4 billion. It makes WE Soda the No. 1 producer of natural trona in the world.

Renée JeanMarch 03, 2025

At sunset, this boot by Catherine Johnson Morris starts to look a lot like a giant boot made of real leather, even though it's really made of sand.

The Woman Behind The Gigantic Sand Sculptures At Glendo

A Casper woman’s addiction to building intricate sand sculptures takes her all over America. But she practices in her home state at Glendo, where she built a 6-foot-tall cowboy boot (which is still standing). She says Wyoming sand is the best.

Renée JeanMarch 02, 2025

Drinking Wyoming: Frosty’s, A True Casper Dive Bar Proudly Serving Horrible Liquor

Frosty’s in Casper, is a typical dive bar in many ways — and proud to serve one of the most terrible tasting liquors. It’s one of the few places outside Chicago with Jeppson’s Malort, a rite-of-passage drink people say tastes like old socks.

Renée JeanMarch 01, 2025

Angelcyn Heall during the summer in Happy Valley near Cheyenne. It's built as a historic English mead hall.

Cheyenne Man Builds His Dream House: Throwback Medieval English Mead Hall

Cyning Meadowcroft built his dream home in Happy Valley near Cheyenne using a near-extinct construction method called a "cruck" to build it. The former Brit built the medieval English mead hall home by himself and trucked two old-growth oak trees 2,000 miles round-trip to begin the project.

Renée JeanMarch 01, 2025

A Cyclone Drilling crew working Rig 38 hit 6,000 feet in 24 hours, a new record at the time in July 2017.

Why Wyoming’s Oil And Gas Industry Isn’t Yet “Drill Baby Drilling”

Optimism is high in Wyoming’s oil and gas sector with President Donald Trump's promise to "drill, baby, drill." But there’s also uncertainty about how more drilling will impact prices.

Renée JeanMarch 01, 2025

Wyoming’s lumber industry isn’t huge, but is heartened to hear Trump say America doesn’t need lumber from Canada. But the industry needs more than tariffs to save it — like changes to forest management. Here, logging trucks collect usable timber harvested while fighting the Elk Fire in the Bighorn National Forest in fall 2024.

Trump Says US Doesn’t Need Canada’s Timber, And Wyoming’s Lumber Industry Agrees

Wyoming’s lumber industry isn’t huge, but was heartened to hear President Trump say America doesn’t need timber from Canada. The industry says it needs more than tariffs to save it — like changes to forest management.

Renée JeanFebruary 28, 2025

Trump Says US Needs To Double Or Triple ‘Electrical Capacity,’ Wyoming Says It’s Ready

President Donald Trump held his first cabinet meeting Wednesday and suggested the country must double or triple its “electrical capacity.” Wyoming energy officials say they are ready to help make that happen.

Renée JeanFebruary 27, 2025

Wyoming Grows Lead In Race For Rare Earths Thanks To Bigger Haul From Huge Deposit

Wyoming Rare (USA) Inc. is reporting even better returns at its Halleck Creek rare earth mining site. That helps grow Wyoming’s lead in the race for domestic production — and processing — of critical rare earth minerals.

Renée JeanFebruary 26, 2025

The Aladdin General Store in Aladdin, Wyoming, is the state's oldest operating general store. It's also had a U.S. Post Office for the past 127 years, until recently.

Wyoming’s Oldest General Store In Aladdin Loses Its 127-Year-Old Post Office

The tiny outpost of Aladdin in northeast Wyoming is home to the state’s oldest general store, which has also served as a local post office since 1898. But no more. The Postal Service has discontinued its contract with the Aladdin General Store.

Renée JeanFebruary 25, 2025

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says she doesn’t trust the U.S. Postal Service’s latest promise to back off its controversial Delivering for America plan and not take away as much mail processing from the Cheyenne and Casper post offices.

Hageman Doesn’t Trust USPS, Wants More Protection For Rural Post Offices

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman doesn’t trust the U.S. Postal Service’s latest promise to not take away as much mail processing from the Cheyenne and Casper post offices. She’s filed a bill that would protect rural post offices.

Renée JeanFebruary 25, 2025

Other Authors

Dones have been reported flying over the Jim Bridger Power Plant, usually at about 2 or 3 a.m.

Bill That Attempts To Stop Mystery Drones From Flying Over Sensitive Areas Moves Forward

A bill that would attempt to stop mystery drones from flying over sensitive areas around Wyoming is nearing the finish line. Meanwhile, a state House committee heard Monday that giant SUV-sized drones are still being spotted.

Renée JeanFebruary 24, 2025

The crew at Industrial Screen and Maintenance, a fabrication shop in Casper, were having fun with a Texas red chili made from brisket. Owner Lindsey Robinson was among those helping serve the chili, at far right.

Texas Red Chili Wins Popular Casper Chili Cook-Off For Fifth Time

A Texas red chili was voted No. 1 at the popular API Chili Cook-Off in Casper on Saturday. It’s the fifth time Norman Jackson’s secret recipe has won, as thousands of people packed the Ford Wyoming Center in Casper for the 32nd annual event.

Renée JeanFebruary 24, 2025

Rooftop systems are less prone to breaking than ground-based systems, according to Creative Energies out of Lander a company thats been in Wyoming since 2001.

Not All Solar Panel Systems Are Nightmares For Their Owners

Several Cowboy State Daily readers wrote in to talk about their experiences with solar panels after a Happy Valley family living near Cheyenne shared their nightmare experience. They also shared tips on how to select the right system.

Renée JeanFebruary 23, 2025

Six Degrees And Snowing At 7:30 p.m. And Nate Ditto Is Cutting Down A 50-Foot Tree

Arborist Nate Ditto was trying to beat the clock by cutting down a 50-foot tree before a snowstorm hit Cheyenne last week. To make things more interesting, it was six-degrees and snowing at 7:30 p.m. and he was still at it. He says he likes the adrenaline he gets from his job.

Renée JeanFebruary 23, 2025

Where The Heck In Wyoming Is This One-Of-A-Kind Western Iron Art Fence?

Lela Emmons of tiny Savery, Wyoming, stumbled on an unusual artistic fence in the 1990s and took photos of it. But she forgot where it was and hasn’t been able to find it again in about 30 years. She hopes someone in Wyoming can solve the mystery.

Renée JeanFebruary 23, 2025

All of the drinks - Starting from left, the Rusty Nail (scotch and Drambuie), Where there's Willow There's a Way ( willowbank tea and brandy), Gin and Tonic with lime, and Revival Root (sarsaparilla tea, Makers Mark, and cream).

Drinking Wyoming: Whiskey Was The Go-To Medicinal Remedy Of The Wild West

Survival in Wild West Wyoming depended on treating illnesses without the help of modern medicine. Whiskey figured in a lot of treatments for all sorts of medical problems — some good and some quite insane.

Renée JeanFebruary 22, 2025

A line of people wait at the Cheyenne Post Office while other customers access their P.O. boxes in the background.

USPS Does About-Face, Now Won’t Move Mail Processing Out Of Cheyenne, Casper

The U.S. Post Office did an about-face Friday on its controversial plan to move local mail processing out of Wyoming’s main hubs. Cheyenne and Casper now won’t ship local mail to other states.

Renée JeanFebruary 21, 2025

Why Cheyenne Had To Give Up Putting Windshield Barnacles On Cars

With tens of thousands of dollars in unpaid parking tickets, Cheyenne started using the high-tech windshield Barnacle device on cars. Less than three years later, that’s been abandoned because too many Wyoming windshields are chipped or cracked.

Renée JeanFebruary 21, 2025

Clock Ticking Again For Small Businesses To Report Ownership

Small business owners now have until March 21 to file forms disclosing their ownership. But even the federal agency in charge isn’t firm on that deadline with legislation and a court case pending.

Renée JeanFebruary 20, 2025

Wyoming Native Reid Rasner Puts Together $47.45 Billion Offer To Buy TikTok

Casper native Reid Rasner has put together a $47.45 billion bid to bring the popular social media app TikTok to Wyoming, which he said would keep the app away from China and boost the state’s economy.

Renée JeanFebruary 20, 2025

Virginia Company Scouting Wyoming For Spot To Build Uranium Fuel Plant

Virginia-based BWX Technologies is not just looking to deploy small micro nuclear reactors in Wyoming. It’s scouting the state for possible sites to build a uranium fuel plant.

Renée JeanFebruary 19, 2025

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy gave himself an “A” for the controversial Delivery For America plan that gutted rural delivery. Now he says he’s quitting, sparking hope from many in Wyoming that the plan goes with him.

Postmaster General, Who Gave Himself An “A” For Gutting Rural Mail Delivery, Is Quitting

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, who gave himself an “A” for the controversial Delivery For America plan that gutted rural delivery, announced on Monday he is quitting. Wyoming leaders are thrilled.

Renée JeanFebruary 18, 2025

The Wyoming Highway Patrol Association voted last week to buy bitcoin, which has exploded by 400% over the last five years. The association is the first law enforcement group in the United States to invest in bitcoin.

WHP Association May Be First Law Enforcement Group In Nation To Buy Into Bitcoin

The Wyoming Highway Patrol Association voted last week to buy bitcoin, which has exploded by 400% over the last five years. The association says it may be the first law enforcement group in the United States to invest in bitcoin.

Renée JeanFebruary 18, 2025

Why Are These Three Turkeys Endlessly Circling A Gravestone?

If you walk into a graveyard and see three turkeys endlessly circling one headstone, it could be offsetting -- even spooky. That was the scene at a cemetery in North Dakota last week. Although it may seem bizarre, turkey growers say it's no big deal.

Renée JeanFebruary 17, 2025

Casper has had a Cupid of sorts for the past 10 years in Joe Eason, a former heavy metal drummer who does singing telegrams as a side gig. Valentine’s Day especially he delivers up to 35 of the most embarrassing singing telegrams he can muster.

Former Metal Drummer Turned Singing Cupid Delivers Love — And Embarrassment

Casper has had a Cupid of sorts for the past 10 years in Joe Eason, a former heavy metal drummer who does singing telegrams as a side gig. On Valentine’s Day, he delivers up to 35 of the most embarrassing singing telegrams he can muster.

Renée JeanFebruary 16, 2025

Earthsky.org editor Marcy Curran is celebrating 40 years as founder of the Cheyenne Astronomy Society. She's always loved bringing the stars down to earth for others.

Cheyenne Stargazers Love Space So Much They Built Their Own Observatory

Cheyenne’s Marcy Curran, the cofounder of the Cheyenne Astronomy Society and an editor of a major astronomy publication, has spent 40 years studying the sky. She and her husband recently built their own observatory.

Renée JeanFebruary 16, 2025

Yellowstone Has An Active Ancient Undersea Wasteland 7,300 Feet Above Sea Level

Monument Geyser Basin is one of the most unique areas of Yellowstone National Park. Its ancient undersea wasteland at 7,300 feet above sea level features formerly underwater cones that are still active.

Renée JeanFebruary 16, 2025

Wyoming’s first human case of bird flu was caused by an infected poultry flock in Platte Valley. The person is hospitalized in another state, and is the nation’s third hospitalization.

Wyoming Confirms First Human Case Of Bird Flu, 3rd Hospitalization In U.S.

Wyoming’s first human case of bird flu was caused by an infected poultry flock in Platte County. The person is hospitalized in another state, and is the nation’s third hospitalization.

Renée JeanFebruary 16, 2025

Willie Banks preparfes eggs on the grill at Diamond Horseshoe Cafe in Cheyenne.

Egg Prices Have Restaurants Scrambling When It Comes To Breakfast

Wyoming restaurants are facing higher and higher egg prices amid an outbreak of the bird flu. Because of the huge increase in prices, some Wyoming restaurants say they are closing down temporarily.

Renée JeanFebruary 15, 2025

A long line of people waits for service at the Cheyenne U.S. Post Office annex.

Hageman’s Postal Service Investigations Find Denver Mail Being Processed In Cheyenne

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman has been investigating the U.S. Postal Service and found that Denver mail is being processed in Cheyenne. The Denver centers are so overwhelmed, they can’t keep up, yet plans are to transfer Wyoming mail there.

Renée JeanFebruary 13, 2025

Google tapped Wyoming outdoor wildlife guide Adam Lackner for its Super Bowl ad campaign, showcasing all 50 states. The Cowboy State’s ad shows off wild Wyoming, as well as one of the state’s leading outdoor guide businesses.

Google Hired Yellowstone, Grand Teton Wildlife Guide For Super Bowl Ad

Google tapped a Wyoming outdoor wildlife guide for its Super Bowl ad campaign, showcasing all 50 states. The Cowboy State’s ad shows off wild Wyoming, as well as one of the state’s leading outdoor guide businesses.

Renée JeanFebruary 12, 2025

This office building used by Registered Agents Inc. in Sheridan is the official address for about 120,000 LLCs registered in Wyoming, Fremont County Assessor Tara Berg estimates.

Already No. 1 For LLCs, Can Wyoming Attract The Huge Companies Leaving Delaware?

Tesla, Meta, Dropbox are a few of the huge tech companies leaving Delaware for other states like Texas and Nevada. Why not Wyoming, which has surpassed Delaware for No. 1 in business incorporations per capita?

Renée JeanFebruary 11, 2025

A postal customer mails Christmas buckeyes to family and friends Monday at the U.S. Postal Service office on Capitol Avenue in Cheyenne.

Postal Regulatory Commission Says Rural Populations Will Suffer Under ‘Delivering For America’ Plan

The Postal Regulatory Commission has issued an advisory opinion that is very critical of the Delivering for America Plan. Rural populations, in particular, won’t be receiving first-class mail for six or more days under the plan, the commission says.

Renée JeanFebruary 10, 2025

The Cabin That’s Almost A Mansion On Last Chance Road In Jackson Hole

For a mere $11.5 million, resort-style life awaits in a cabin that’s almost a mansion in Jackson Hole. With a 720 credit rating and a $2.7 million downpayment, financial calculators put your monthly payments at just $54,000, for a 30-year loan.

Renée JeanFebruary 10, 2025

Special Op Is Being Planned To Rescue An 1893 Tree That’s Part Of Wyoming History

Deep in the most remote area of the Shoshone National Forest is a unique piece of 1893 history, inscribed on a beetle-killed tree and it's is in danger of being lost. A rescue mission is being attempted, but some money might be needed for a helicopter to sling the artifact out.

Renée JeanFebruary 09, 2025

Wind turbines in Carbon County, Wyoming.

Despite Chilly Climate, It’s Business As Usual For Wind, Solar Energy In Wyoming

Wind and solar energy projects in Wyoming are moving ahead with their projects, despite the recent chill from both federal and state lawmakers. Most of the projects are on private property, project managers say, which helps de-risk the projects.

Renée JeanFebruary 09, 2025

After 100 Years, Cavalryman Steakhouse Closes, Moves To Special Events Model

If you've spent any time in Laramie, you know the Cavalryman Steakhouse. It just celebrated its 100th anniversary and is moving to a special events model. The historic restaurant will only be open for special occasions like holidays, weddings, football games and the like.

Renée JeanFebruary 09, 2025

Christine Meadowcroft and her children posing with their new solar panels

Wyoming Family Learns Solar Panels Aren’t For The Faint Of Heart

A Happy Valley family who lives near Cheyenne found out the hard way that solar panels aren’t for the faint of heart. They do work, and they do defray energy costs, but there are a lot of headaches that go along with it. It helps if you have the patience of a saint.

Renée JeanFebruary 09, 2025

Pete Bass talks about his life with Cowboy State Daily at his coffee shop in Evanston, For Pete's Sake, where he likes to say he serves good coffee and bad puns.

The Coffee Comes With Redemption At Pete’s Sake In Evanston

"For Pete's Sake" coffee shop in Evanston serves more than just coffee. For owner Pete Bass, it's a mission. That mission is to tell his story of redemption to anyone who feels like they need a second chance. Prison, he says, was God’s way of offering him another chance -- every time.

Renée JeanFebruary 08, 2025

State Rep. Cody Wylie, R-Rock Springs, has proposed significant changes to Wyoming's license plate rules.

Wyoming License Plates Would Be Mailed, Not Redone Every 8 Years Under Proposal

State legislators are considering a bill that would not require a redesign of license plates every eight years. That means you can keep your plates until they wear out. Also, people would get them via mail, not their county treasurers.

Renée JeanFebruary 05, 2025

Bill Gates was in Kemmerer in June 2024 for a ceremonial groundbreaking for the TerraPower Natrium nuclear plant.

TerraPower Nuclear Training Center In Kemmerer Will Be One-Of-A-Kind In The World

The 35,000-square-foot nuclear training center TerraPower is building in Kemmerer, Wyoming, will be the only one of its kind in the world. Plans are for it to train all the company’s nuclear techs wherever in the world their Natrium reactors are.

Renée JeanFebruary 04, 2025

Semitrucks cross the Peace Bridge at the U.S.-Canada border in Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada, on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025. After Canada agreed to implement border security measures, President Donald Trump paused his proposed tariffs for 30 days.

Tariff Trade War On Hold With Mexico, Canada; Wyoming Lawmakers Declare Victory

Monday was a tumultuous day for the stock market, but Trump walked away with some big concessions from Canada and Mexico — just as Wyoming lawmakers predicted he would.

Renée JeanFebruary 04, 2025

Kevin Kolenda is accused of scamming the Saratoga Ice Fishing Derby in 2018. He sold an insurance policy against the derby’s $10,000 prize, and when someone won, didn’t pay out.

Law Catches Up To Man Accused Of Scamming Saratoga’s $10,000 Ice Fishing Derby

The law has caught up to a man accused of scamming the Saratoga Ice Fishing Derby in 2018. He sold an insurance policy against the derby’s $10,000 prize, and when someone won, didn’t pay out. He’s accused of defrauding others of nearly $1 million.

Renée JeanFebruary 03, 2025

Casper Doctor Now Official Orthopedic Partner, Provider For Pro Motocross Racing

Dr. Joe McGinley has climbed the tallest mountains on six of seven continents and invents medical devices. But before that, he had a passion for motocross, giving it up for medical school. Now the Casper doctor is back as the official orthopedic partner and provider for Pro Motocross racing.

Renée JeanFebruary 02, 2025

Finnegans Wake (5), with Victor Espinoza riding, wins the 29th running of the Woodford Reserve Turf Classic at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on May 2, 2015.

Champion Thoroughbred Finnegans Wake To Make Wyoming Home In Retirement

Finnegans Wake, a racehorse with world-famous bloodlines, is a champion thoroughbred that’s making Wyoming home in retirement. Horse racing insiders say he won’t be the last, either, as the Cowboy State is attracting more industry stars.

Renée JeanFebruary 02, 2025

Students in the Manufacturing Industrial and Technology Department at Western Wyoming Community College.

Nuclear Power Tech Poised To Explode As Wyoming’s Next Six-Figure “It” Job

The wages for nuclear power techs are expected to range into the six figures, and it’s a good thing because Wyoming will soon need hundreds of these techs. Western Wyoming Community College is training people for this emerging career.

Renée JeanFebruary 01, 2025

Shawn Robin Chape, originally from Rozet, Wyoming, roping a calf in the first round in 1.9 seconds flat to win the 2024 Australian breakaway roping title.

A Wyoming Cowgirl Is Australia’s Newest Breakaway Roping Champion

A cowgirl from Rozet, Wyoming, named Shawn Robin Chape is Australia’s newest breakaway roping champion. She lassoed the title in a blazing fast 1.69 seconds, setting a new arena record. She credits her Wyoming roots as a huge part of her success.

Renée JeanFebruary 01, 2025

Eating Wyoming: Buffalo Bill Was The World’s Original Galloping Gourmet

“The Galloping Gourmet” on PBS had nothing on Buffalo Bill Cody, who was the original foodie of the West. He brought Mexican food to New York, popcorn to Europe and gourmet dining experiences to the masses.

Renée JeanFebruary 01, 2025

Governors, Famous Author Fans Of 2025 BIG WYO Winner Diane Shober

Diane Shober is 2025’s BIG WYO winner after 21 years as the Wyoming Office of Tourism director. That had a long line of people, including governors and New York Times best-selling author C.J. Box saluting her drive to promote Wyoming.

Renée JeanJanuary 29, 2025

Along the Interstate 90 corridor to and fron Sturgis, South Dakota, Devils Tower is a busy place during the annual motorcycle rally.

Even At Nearly $5B A Year, Wyoming Tourism Not Close To Potential, Industry Says

At nearly $5 billion a year, tourism is Wyoming’s second-leading economic driver. Even so, the state’s tourism industry says it’s just scratching the surface of Cowboy State tourism’s true potential.

Renée JeanJanuary 29, 2025

Bill Would Bolster Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes And Other Wyoming Agritourism

More Wyoming farmers and ranchers are turning to pumpkin patches, corn mazes and other agrotourism to bolster their bottom lines. The state Legislature is considering a bill that would extend tourism liability coverage for these attractions.

Renée JeanJanuary 28, 2025

The Wyoming Hospitality and Travel Coalition is introduced in the state Senate on Monday, where all four balconies were stacked with people representing Wyoming's tourism industry.

Tourism Industry Is Gearing Up To Take On A New Legislature

With 28 lawmakers who are either new or in new roles, tourism is gearing up for a charm offensive. It started with a show of force at the Capitol on Monday, but the lobbying effort is going to continue throughout the year.

Renée JeanJanuary 28, 2025

Lummis To Lead Digital Asset Subcommittee, Will Work With Trump On Strategic Bitcoin Reserve

U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis has been named the nation's first chair of the Digital Asset Subcommittee. Known for her expertise in cryptocurrency, one of her first priorities is the passage of a bill to create a strategic bitcoin reserve.

Renée JeanJanuary 27, 2025

Bowling is making a comeback in a big way thanks to a high-tech video game-style makeover.

Can Bowling Become Cool Again? Cheyenne's Derby Lane Says "Absolutely."

Bowling has been in a decline since the ‘80s, but a high-tech video-game approach is changing that. The new style is what the recently opened Derby Lanes in Cheyenne is all about.

Renée JeanJanuary 26, 2025

It takes some next-level marketing and effort to sell exclusive multimillion-dollar Jackson Hole properties to billionaires.

How To Sell Jackson Hole Real Estate To Billionaires

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to sell exclusive multimillion-dollar Jackson Hole properties to billionaires, Latham Jenkins can tell you. It’s next-level effort that goes far beyond just walking potential buyers through a building.

Renée JeanJanuary 25, 2025

“American Primeval” A Netflix Hit That Gets A Lot Of Wyoming History Wrong

Wyoming’s historic Fort Bridger is taking calls from “American Primeval” fans looking for its hanging spot. But there isn’t one, never has been. That’s just one of many things historians say “American Primeval” gets completely wrong.

Renée JeanJanuary 25, 2025

Chef Zoilan Ruiz is a huge reason why Le Reve Restaurant and Raw Bar in Sheridan, Wyoming, has been named a semifinalist for a James Beard Award for best new restaurant.

Sheridan’s Le Reve Makes Exclusive James Beard List Of Best New Restaurants

What happens when you hire filmmaker George Lucas' chef for your brand new restaurant? You get noticed. After just four months in operation, Le Reve Restaurant and Raw Bar in Sheridan has made the exclusive list of James Beard Award semifinalists for best new restaurant in the nation.

Renée JeanJanuary 25, 2025

Kemmerer Officials Hope TerraPower Deal Could Attract AI Data Center

As Bill Gates-backed TerraPower continues building a first-of-its-kind nuclear plant in Kemmerer, Wyoming, it has struck a deal with the nation’s largest independent data center provider. Local officials hope that could lead to an AI data center there.

Renée JeanJanuary 22, 2025

Among the executive orders President Donald Trump singed on his first day in office Jan. 20, 2025, was declaring a "National Energy Emergency."

Wyoming Industries Applaud Trump’s “National Energy Emergency” Declaration

Wyoming’s energy industry is applauding President Donald Trump declaring a “national energy emergency.” They’re calling on Wyoming’s BLM office to immediately approve delayed permits and deferred lease sales.

Renée JeanJanuary 22, 2025

End Of USPS-UPS Deal Could Mean Faster Rural Delivery, But More Expensive

Rural packages are likely to get to where they’re going faster now that contract negotiations between the U.S. Postal Service and UPS have fallen apart for last-mile service. But it’s also likely to be more expensive.

Renée JeanJanuary 21, 2025

A bitcoin mining facility near F.E. Warren Air Force Base just west of Cheyenne. Its Chinese ownership was forced to sell by the Biden administration.

Committee Advances Measure To Ban Foreign Adversaries Owning Wyoming Property

The House Agriculture committee gave a thumbs up to a constitutional measure that will ban foreign adversaries from owning Wyoming property. Deciding who those foreign adversaries are will be debated on the House floor.

Renée JeanJanuary 21, 2025

Wyoming Secretary of State's Office in Cheyenne.

State Caught 3 North Korean Companies Trying Set Up In Wyoming Last Year

The state caught three North Korean companies last year filing fraudulent paperwork to set up in Wyoming to raise money for weapons of mass destruction. A House committee passed a bill Monday that aims to keep foreign adversaries out of Wyoming.

Renée JeanJanuary 20, 2025

The House Minerals Business and Economic Development CommitteeHouse Minerals Business and Economic Development Committee discusses an anti-ESG bill Friday, Jan. 17, 2025.

Despite Opposition, Anti-ESG Bill Sails Through Committee After Changes

An anti-ESG Bill sailed over a wall of opposition from Wyoming investment fund managers and the state treasurer. It passed out of committee Monday after significant changes to address the criticism.

Renée JeanJanuary 20, 2025

Historic One-Of-A-Kind Property For Sale Near Sunrise Once Home To Early Pioneer

A five-bedroom house near the abandoned company mining town of Sunrise, Wyoming, in the Hartville area is chock-full of history — and for sale, listing for $809,000. It was home to an early pioneer, and the sale includes the Guernsey Cabin.

Renée JeanJanuary 20, 2025

The bartender at Le Reve Restaurant and Raw Bar adjusts the flow of water from an ornate fountain, part of the ritual involved in serving a glass of absinthe.

Drinking Wyoming: Absinthe, Spirit Of Murder And Madness, Is Back In Wyoming

Absinthe was illegal for nearly a century, branded by the wine industry as a spirit of murder and madness. But it’s making a comeback, and a handful of Wyoming venues serve this once-forbidden liquor.

Renée JeanJanuary 18, 2025

Fire air operations drop fire retardant on flames from the Palisades Fire along Mandeville Canyon in the Brentwood community of Los Angeles, Calif.

Why California Wildfires Could Spike Already-High Wyoming Insurance Rates

The wildfires devastating residential areas of Southern California aren’t only going to impact those homeowners. Wyoming residents also can expect to see a spike in their already-high insurance rates.

Renée JeanJanuary 18, 2025

State Rep. Christopher Knapp, R-Gillette, testifies for the House Minerals Business and Economic Development Committee on Friday, Jan. 17, 2025.

Anti-ESG Bill Hits Wall Of Opposition, Debate Will Continue Monday

An anti-ESG bill that would block investment into companies that go against Wyoming’s oil and gas industries hit a wall of opposition Friday. That includes state Treasurer Curt Meier, who said half his staff could walk out if the bill passes.

Renée JeanJanuary 17, 2025

A Chinese bitcoin mining facility near F.E. Warren Air Force Base just west of Cheyenne was shut down by the Biden administration as a potential national security threat.

Bill Banning Foreign Adversaries Setting Up Shop Near Critical Areas Advances

The Senate Appropriations Committee gave a unanimous thumbs up Thursday to a bill that would ban foreign adversaries from setting up near critical infrastructure in Wyoming.

Renée JeanJanuary 17, 2025

Wyoming Stock Growers Assocition Executive Vice President Jim Magagna testifies against an eminent domain bill for the House Agriculture Committee on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. Inset, committee member Rep. John Eklund, R-Cheyenne.

Controversial Eminent Domain Bill Passes Over Protests From Ag, Energy Industries

Wyoming legislators passed a controversial eminent domain bill Thursday that would ban anyone except public utilities from using eminent domain to take land for electrical systems. Both the state’s ag and energy industries argued against it.

Renée JeanJanuary 16, 2025

The Granite Creek Ranch, which was listed for nearly $9 million in Jackson, Wyoming, has been bought by billionare Joe Ricketts.

Billionaire Joe Ricketts Plans Luxury Resort With Teton County Ranch He Bought

Billionaire Joe Ricketts has announced his plans for the Granite Ranch in Teton County, which he bought last fall. It will be a swanky luxury resort, echoing many of the same themes as his abandoned Homestead Resort project in Bondurant.

Renée JeanJanuary 15, 2025

Turbine blades and Eagle Butte mine via Alamy 1 15 25

Wyoming Doubles Down On Wind Blade Disposal In Coal Mines, Tabling Alternative

Wyoming legislators tabled a bill Wednesday that would have created landfill deposits at wind farm sites to dispose of their worn-out turbine blades. State agencies say coal mine disposal — just approved by federal government — is better.

Renée JeanJanuary 15, 2025

Star Plunge water park and hot springs in Thermopolis closed Tuesday, a day earlier than expected as a dispute continues between the state and the facility's owners/operators. Here, Roland Luehne turns away Joy Erickson, son Dayton Yaple and Annette Withinton, Lander customers who misunderstood that the pool was closed.

Soakers Show Up To Find World Famous Star Plunge Closed Sooner Than Expected

The world famous Star Plunge pool and hot springs in Thermopolis, Wyoming, has been on a legal collision course with the state. It had been expected to close Wednesday, but soakers showed up Tuesday to find it suddenly closed earlier.

Renée JeanJanuary 14, 2025

Gillette, Wyoming-based Cycline Drilling operates a rig in the Powder River Basin.

Wyoming's Powder River Basin Sitting On Untapped Oil And Gas Potential

The oil and gas industry has been talking up the potential of the Powder River Basin for 20 years. Even so, Wyoming’s busiest play still only has about 11 rigs running. It’s going to take more than an oil-friendly administration to increase production.

Renée JeanJanuary 14, 2025

A field of discarded wind turbine blades.

Feds OK Wyoming Idea To Use Old Wind Turbines To Fill In Coal Mines

Wyoming’s innovative plan to allow coal mines to accept wind turbine blades as fill material has cleared the Biden administration, almost four years after the state approved it.

Renée JeanJanuary 14, 2025

The 30th annual Pedigree Stage Stop sled dog race across Wyoming begins Feb. 1. The sixth stage is in Lander.

Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race Returns To Dubois After 20-Year Hiatus

Dubois will once again host a leg of the world-famous Pedigree Stage Stop Dog Race after a 20-year hiatus. The town is planning an over-the-top weekend as the final stage for the event’s 30th year.

Renée JeanJanuary 12, 2025

Java Moon owner Megan Cook makes a specialty coffee drink at her Sheridan cafe.

Inside Sheridan's Java Moon Coffee Shop Where Mooncakes Are King

Somewhere over the Java Moon in Sheridan is where you’ll find Megan Cook. The former financial accountant took a moonshot leap of faith from a comfortable job to owning her own business. It’s been a roller coaster, but she has no regrets.

Renée JeanJanuary 12, 2025

Blue Federal Credit Union location at East 7th Street and Warren Avenue in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

No, Jimmy Carter’s Funeral Didn’t Delay Workers From Getting Their Paychecks

Some Blue Federal Credit Union customers in Cheyenne woke up Friday to shock that their paychecks hadn’t been deposited. Although told it was because the Federal Reserve was closed for Jimmy Carter’s funeral, it was an electronic transfer glitch.

Renée JeanJanuary 12, 2025

Grain Weevil Robot Aims To Keep Farmers From Risking Their Lives In Grain Bins

A Nebraska company has developed a pioneering robot called a Grain Weevil that can do everything in a grain bin a human with a shovel might need to do. Wyoming farmers say it could be a revolutionary development for safety.

Renée JeanJanuary 11, 2025

Since September, thousands of rural ZIP codes have been paying a surcharge on packages that has been quietly put into U.S. Postal Service merchant agreements with companies like eBay.

Wyomingites Pay More For Rural Postal Service Deliveries Through Sneaky Surcharge

The U.S. Postal Service has quietly initiated a surcharge on package deliveries to rural areas, which includes much of Wyoming. The up-charges have been quietly slipped into Postal Service agreements with merchants like eBay.

Renée JeanJanuary 10, 2025

A Laramie County property north of Cheyenne city limits with multiple cars. It could be one that is impacted by proposed zoning regulation changes.

Laramie County Residents Angry Over Proposed “Land Grab” Zoning Regs

Some Laramie County residents are angry over proposed zoning laws they call a local government “land grab.” Commissioners say tightening some rules is needed to help neighbors upset with businesses and other operations setting up in neighborhoods.

Renée JeanJanuary 09, 2025

A worker observes while a coworker finishes taking out the stump of a cottonwood tree at Holiday Park in Cheyenne that shows some signs of compromise. But residents are questioning the removal of some other trees, which they say were younger and healthier.

Cheyenne Cutting Down More Cottonwood Trees But Locals Say There's Nothing Wrong With Them

The City of Cheyenne is at it again -- cutting down more of its Cottonwood trees. The city says they’ve been identified as “a hazard to the public,” but locals say there was nothing wrong with them.

Renée JeanJanuary 08, 2025

South Dakota-based Aerostar is testing high-altitude balloons with NASA and the U.S. Forest Service for supporting wildland firefighting efforts by giving cellphone service and other observations and data.

Those Aren't Chinese Balloons Over Wyoming, They're Helping Firefighters And More

Some of the balloons people see floating over Wyoming aren’t Chinese spy efforts, they’re from South Dakota. One balloon was a floating cellphone tower for a demonstration project that could dramatically improve logistics for wildland firefighters.

Renée JeanJanuary 07, 2025

Along with a main house, there are a handful of other homes and residences on the Antlers Ranch.

Two Multimillion-Dollar Wyoming Properties Are In Top 5 Most-Viewed Luxury Listings

Two multimillion-dollar Wyoming properties have made Mansion Global’s annual list of top five viewed luxury listings for 2024. The $9 million Granite Creek Ranch in Jackson Hole is No. 1, while the $85 million Antlers Ranch near Meeteetse is No. 4.

Renée JeanJanuary 06, 2025

Craig Johnson loaded up and motorcycling through the Rock Springs and Red Desert areas of southwest Wyoming while researching his latest Walt Longmire novel, "Return to Sender."

Craig Johnson’s Next Novel Drops May 27, Was Inspired By Cowboy State Daily Story

Craig Johnson’s newest novel “Return to Sender” will drop May 27. The Ucross, Wyoming, writer said his latest mystery was inspired by a story he read in Cowboy State Daily about the mail carrier who has the most remote route in the United States.

Renée JeanJanuary 06, 2025

Even when it's 20 degrees and snowy outside, the business in Mort's Bagels in downtown Cheyenne, Wyoming, is brisk on a Sunday morning, Jan. 5, 2025.

Bagels Are Temperamental, But That Hasn't Stopped Couple From Running Bagel Shop

Any cook who’s ever tried to make bagels can tell you just how temperamental they can be. A Cheyenne couple who purchased Mort's Bagels found that out the hard way. But they've learned that lesson and love running their own business.

Renée JeanJanuary 05, 2025

The Schell family of Wyoming poses in front of Concord Waterfall on the island of Granada. After that, they went to the Jouvay chocolate factory and then explored a forest reserve where wild Mona monkeys roam.

Wyoming Couple Sells Home To Sail Around The World Over Next 10 Years

Jim Bob and Marlie Schell have have traded their home in Hoback Junction for a sailboat. They're not only going to sail around the world over the next 10 years but they're homeschooling their son on the high seas.

Renée JeanJanuary 05, 2025

"Can I take your order?" Margaret Lovato asks with a smile at Diamond Horseshoe Cafe in Cheyenne, where she has worked for almost 50 years.

Margaret Lovato Has Been Serving Customers For 50 Years At Cheyenne's Diamond Horseshoe

Regulars at the Diamond Horseshoe Cafe describe it as Cheyenne’s Cheers, a place where everyone knows your name. At the center of that is Margaret Lovato, who’s been serving customers there for almost 50 years.

Renée JeanJanuary 04, 2025

City National Pawn's coin master Joe Bohlinger looks at the tail feathers of a 2000-P Sacagawea coin, to see if it is a "Cheerios" coin. It wasn't, but if it had been, it would have been worth around $6,600 if in mint condition.

Pocket Change Can Be Worth Big Money If You Know What to Look For

While many of the most valuable coins aren’t in circulation anymore, there are still millions of coins changing hands every day. A Wyoming coin dealer says there’s big money in pocket change if you know what to look for.

Renée JeanJanuary 04, 2025

Billy Bob Thornton plays the lead character of Tommy Norris in the new Paramount+ series "Landman." Real Wyoming landmen say the show isn't always realistic, but gets as lot of the details right.

“Landman” Not Always Realistic, But New Hit Taylor Sheridan Show Gets A Lot Right

Real-life Wyoming landmen say Taylor Sheridan’s new hit TV show “Landman” isn't always realistic, but the show does get a lot of the fundamentals right.

Renée JeanJanuary 04, 2025

Embattled Star Plunge Park Remains Open Ahead Of Jan. 14 Deadline

While many media outlets reported the historic Star Plunge would close Dec. 31, it remains open. While its lease expired then, the facility has an extension through Jan. 14 while negotiations for its sale and a court case continue.

Renée JeanJanuary 04, 2025

Industry: Court Ruling BLM Illegally Halted Oil And Gas Lease Sales Is Too Late

A judge ruled Tuesday that the BLM illegally suspended a 2022 Wyoming oil and gas lease. While pleased with the decision, the governor and industry officials said Friday it’s too little, too late to reverse the damage done by the Biden administration.

Renée JeanJanuary 03, 2025

When billionaire Joe Ricketts bought White Pine Ski & Summer Resort near Pinedale, Wyoming, people speculated the goal was to turn it into an upscale Jackson Hole-like resort. So far, fans of the ski area say it hasn’t changed yet.

Fans Say White Pine Unchanged So Far In First Season Under Billionaire Ricketts

When billionaire Joe Ricketts bought White Pine Resort near Pinedale, Wyoming, people speculated the goal was to turn it into an upscale Jackson Hole-like resort. So far, fans of the ski area say it hasn’t changed yet.

Renée JeanDecember 30, 2024

John Haggerty in front of the car he used as a medical courier, even when I-80 was closed.

Even When I-80 Is Closed, Medical Couriers Still Allowed To Go Through

Interstate 80 is notorious for being impossible to get through at times during the winter. But even when closed, medical couriers are still allowed to go through. Lives depend on it.

Renée JeanDecember 29, 2024

A group of monks in the mountains near Meeteetse, Wyoming, are building a Gothic monastery using cutting-edge technology. They’ve adapted CNC machines to carve stone that looks like it could’ve been sculpted 1,000 years ago.

Carmelite Monks Near Meeteetse Use Modern Tech To Build Gothic Monastery

A group of Carmelite monks in the mountains near Meeteetse, Wyoming, are building a Gothic monastery using cutting-edge technology. They’ve adapted high-tech computerized machines to carve stone that looks like it could’ve been sculpted 1,000 years ago.

Renée JeanDecember 29, 2024

Wyoming Businesses Don’t Have To Disclose Owners After Whiplash Court Ruling

The on-again, off-again mandate for small businesses to disclose their ownership is off again after a Thursday whiplash ruling by a federal court. It halts the Corporate Transparency Act, which calls for jail time, $10,000 fines for noncompliance.

Renée JeanDecember 27, 2024

Lines were long at the U.S. Postal Service office at Capitol Avenue in Cheyenne in this file photo.

Wyoming Mail Goes Hundreds Of Extra Miles Before Delivery

Wyoming mail is getting ping-ponged around the region, traveling hundreds of extra miles before finally being delivered. Tracking packages online is leaving customers beyond frustrated. Meanwhile, the U.S. Postal Service says it will look into the issue.

Renée JeanDecember 27, 2024

Small businesses make up the backbone of Cheyenne's downtown district.

Wyoming Business Owners Could Get Jail, $10,000 Fine For Not Disclosing Ownership

Small business owners face jail time and fines of up to $10,000 for not reporting who their owners are. They have until Jan 13, but Chuck Gray wants Wyoming to fight the rule in court.

Renée JeanDecember 26, 2024

Grammy Award-winning Christian rock duo for King + Country filmed the music video for its emotional version of "The Little Drummer Boy" in Wyoming's Bighorn Mountains.

Popular Version Of “The Little Drummer Boy” Has A Silent Star — The Bighorns

The popular Christian rock duo for King + Country uses Wyoming as the backdrop for the music video of their remake of the Christmas classic “The Little Drummer Boy.” The majesty of the Bighorn Mountains helps make the video magical.

Renée JeanDecember 24, 2024

Eula Wulfjen Kendrick, played by Barbara Cavanagh, talks about newspaper clippings in her scrapbooks with her two guests, Matatie Wulfjen Williams (Michelle King) and Madge Eggleston (Kathy Pavatt).

Party Like It’s Christmas 1924 At The Kendrick Mansion In Sheridan

The Kendrick Mansion in Sheridan comes to life for the holidays. The setting serves as the backdrop for a day in the life of the Kendricks at Christmas -- an intimate and cozy trip back into time.

Renée JeanDecember 24, 2024

This porch pirate was caught on a doorbell camera taking a 5-year-old Cheyenne boy's Christmas gift.

Cheyenne Porch Pirate Caught On Camera Grinching A 5-Year-Old’s Christmas

Porch pirates just seem to keep getting more and more bold. But people are fighting back with door cameras, drop boxes and pranks like putting old junk in new boxes. That didn't stop one Grinch from stealing a Cheyenne 5-year-old's Christmas.

Renée JeanDecember 24, 2024

A house in a subdivision about 15 miles west of Cheyenne that had attracted squatters and drug activity, and had terrorized neighbors for years, has finally been raided and torn down.

How Neighbors Teamed Up With Wyoming Sheriff To Get Drug House Demolished

Residents in a Laramie County subdivision said they felt terrorized by squatters who had moved into an abandoned home and turned it into a drug house. It took months of collaboration with local officials but got it successfully torn down.

Renée JeanDecember 23, 2024

Brian Bartow’s fire truck Christmas light display on Dec. 19, 2024, at 550 Essex Road in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Antique Firetrucks Decked Out For Christmas Draw Crowds In Cheyenne

Christmas is all about Santa and firetrucks at the Bartow family home in Cheyenne. His holiday decorations are centered two antique firetrucks -- a 1942 American LaFrance and a 1938 Studebaker.

Renée JeanDecember 22, 2024

Chef Juan Coronado, co-owner of Railspur, demonstrates how to prepare the classic holiday dish beef Wellington.

Think Beef Wellington Is Too Hard To Make? Think Again, Says Wyoming Chef

There’s a reason Gordon Ramsay’s famous beef Wellington costs $119 dollars per person. it’s a complex dish that marries high-quality ingredients in a visually stunning way. But Wyoming chef Juan Coronado says with a few smart changes, it doesn’t really have to be such a chore.

Renée JeanDecember 22, 2024

The Halleck Creek site in Wyoming, now called the Cowboy State Mine site.

Wyoming Project Gets Boost In Race To Be First For U.S. Rare Earths Production

What could be one of the world’s richest rare earths deposits announced Friday a partnership for a Wyoming pilot plant. It’s a boost for Wyoming to be first in the U.S. to help stand up domestic rare earths production sooner.

Renée JeanDecember 21, 2024

Outrage Over Daniel Wolf Abuse Didn’t Impact Wyoming Tourism In 2024

Global outrage and calls to boycott Wyoming over the abuse and killing of a wolf in Daniel in February didn’t impact Cowboy State tourism in 2024. Lodging tax collections are up almost across the board.

Renée JeanDecember 20, 2024

Innovative Short Wind Turbines Are In For A Tough Test — Wyoming Winter

Airloom Energy will test its innovative wind turbines in winter — the perfect shakedown for an 80- to 100-foot-tall invention born in Wyoming. The novel Bill Gates-backed concept could make today’s 500-foot-tall wind towers obsolete.

Renée JeanDecember 18, 2024

BNSF Railway To Eliminate Dozens Of Jobs Dec. 27

BNSF has pushed through an agreement in arbitration with its unions that will eliminate dozens of jobs on Dec. 27. As more people are cut, union reps say they worry for the safety of the workers who remain.

Renée JeanDecember 17, 2024

Workers at the Casper Amazon Flex location sort packages for delivery.

Amazon Opens Wyoming’s First Delivery Centers In Gillette And Casper

Amazon has opened its first Wyoming distribution centers in Gillette and Casper. That’s great for people within 60 miles of them, but delivery problems continue for many other rural areas.

Renée JeanDecember 16, 2024

Mike Aumiller picks up a DoorDash order at the Lincolway Arby's outlet in Cheyenne on Sunday. Aumiller said his wife delivers DoorDash during the week, and he does it on weekends to make some extra money.

Get Cussed Out, Belittled And Stiffed On Tips — Welcome To DoorDashing

Being a DoorDasher isn’t the cushy, easy job for lazy basement dwellers some imagine it to be. DoorDashers beat up their cars in the worst Wyoming weather and sometimes get cussed out, belittled and stiffed on tips.

Renée JeanDecember 15, 2024

Colorado-based Fading West makes modular homes and delivers them on site for quick setup. The company thinks it can help with an expected housing crunch in Kemmerer, Wyoming.

Modular Home Company That Helped Maui After Wildfires Could Ease Kemmerer Housing Crunch

A modular home company that stepped up to help Hawaii residents after devastating wildfires is looking to bring in homes to help with Kemmerer's housing crunch. Up to 6,000 new workers on their way to the southwest Wyoming community.

Renée JeanDecember 15, 2024

Economists say it's not necessary to hoard goods, especially toilet paper, ahead of possible tariffs.

What Are Economists Stocking Up On Ahead Of Possible Tariffs? Not Toilet Paper

Wyoming economists are not panicking about the potential for Trump’s promised tariffs. They also don’t think people need to hoard stuff ahead of time — especially toilet paper.

Renée JeanDecember 15, 2024

Chef Petrina Peart reacts after finding a beautiful Brussel sprout tree for an upcoming holiday gathering she's working on.

Cheyenne Celebrity Chef Puts Sprouts, Wyoming’s Newest Grocer, To The Test

Sprouts Farmers Market, the supermarket chain which focuses on natural and organic foods, has an ambitious growth plan and just opened its first store in Wyoming. Cheyenne celebrity chef Petrina Peart was among the first to put the market to the test.

Renée JeanDecember 14, 2024

The commute over Teton Pass this winter will be a lot steeper and curvier for drivers this winter.

Teton Pass Commuters Have To Navigate A Steeper, Curvier Drive This Winter

A steeper grade and sharper turns have some rethinking driving over Teton Pass between Idaho and Jackson, Wyoming, this winter. But most regulars say they feel the fix is good enough and they’re ready when the road turns icy.

Renée JeanDecember 13, 2024

Customers line up in the U.S. Post Office on Converse Avenue in Cheyenne.

Postmaster General Gives Himself An “A” For Gutting Wyoming Mail Delivery

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy is giving himself an “A” for his controversial plan that will gut Wyoming’s large mail processing centers and lengthen delivery times. While he’s proud of the plan, Harriet Hageman gives it and DeJoy an “F.”

Renée JeanDecember 12, 2024

Albertsons grocery store at 3355 E. Pershing Blvd. in Cheyenne, Wyo.

Albertson’s Breaks Off $25B Grocery Merger, Now Wants Billions From Kroger

After two judges blocked a $25 billion merger between grocery giants Kroger and Albertsons, Albertsons has called it off. It's also pointing fingers at Kroger for the merger’s failure and wants billions of dollars in compensation.

Renée JeanDecember 11, 2024

Judges in Two States Block $25 Billion Kroger-Albertsons Merger

Judges in Washington and Oregon blocked the huge $25 billion Kroger-Albertsons grocery merger Tuesday. That bodes well for a lawsuit the Federal Trade Commission and Wyoming have against the merger.

Renée JeanDecember 11, 2024

Doug Theis, owner of Big Paws Christmas Trees in Cheyenne, says he's been selling trees for 14 years, and has held prices without an increase for the last two years.

Buying A Live Christmas Tree In Wyoming Won’t Cost Much More Despite Demand

Lower shipping costs have helped take the edge off a supply crunch for live Christmas trees in Wyoming, keeping prices lower than they might have been. That’s despite increased demand and Hurricane Helene devastating a huge supply of trees.

Renée JeanDecember 10, 2024

Uranium Energy Corp. has bought Rio Tino's Wyoming assets, which includes its uranium production facility in Sweetwater County. Above is a view of the control room.

Uranium Energy Corp. Finalizes $175M Buyout Of Wyoming Processing Plant

Uranium Energy Corp. has finalized a $175 million buyout of Rio Tinto’s Wyoming assets, which includes its Sweetwater County processing plant. The sale gives Uranium Energy the nation’s largest production capacity of uranium.

Renée JeanDecember 09, 2024

The Mint Bar's iconic neon cowboy lights up the night on Sheridan's Main Street, as does the WYO Theater, down the street from here.

Sheridan’s Famous Main Street A Bucket-List Item For Lovers Of All Things Western

Sheridan has a reputation as a Western tourism gem. And its famous Main Street has become a bucket-list destination for those who love all things Western.

Renée JeanDecember 08, 2024

Brian Deurloo with Frog Creek Partners cleans out a gutter bin that was part of a pilot program in the Denver metro area that captured 1,300 pounds of trash in six months. This one also had a $100 bill.

At First, Wyoming Businessman Thought Invitation To Speak At United Nations Was Scam

Brian Deurloo of Sheridan will be in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to address the United Nations about artificial intelligence and water security. At first, the Wyoming businessman deleted the UN’s invitation, thinking it was a scam.

Renée JeanDecember 08, 2024

Expresso Lube in Gillette, Wyoming, is much more than a place to get your oil changed. It's also a cafe that serves breakfast and lunch, and is a comfortable place to wait for your vehicle.

Get An Oil Change And Lunch At Gillette’s Expresso Lube, But Not A Beer

Expresso Lube in Gillette already has a unique business model operating an oil change shop on one side and a diner on the other. But you can’t get a beer there after its liquor license was denied this week.

Renée JeanDecember 07, 2024

Tiny bone needles, about 1-3 mm wide, have been found at the La Prele Mammoth site near Douglas, Wyoming.

Tiny Bone Needles From Wyoming’s La Prele Site A Prehistoric Breakthrough

Archaeologists say Wyoming’s La Prele Mammoth site near Douglas has given up another big prehistoric find. They say the discovery of early 13,000-year-old tiny bone needles could help rewrite the history of early man.

Renée JeanDecember 07, 2024

Nobody can drive around on Wyoming roads with their cars and trucks decked out in Christmas lights, the Wyoming Highway Patrol says — not even Santa.

Why It's Against The Law To Decorate Your Vehicle With Christmas Lights

Although you may be tempted to string thousands of Christmas lights on your car to show off your holiday glee, it's against the law. The Wyoming Highway Patrol says it would even ticket Santa.

Renée JeanDecember 07, 2024

Wyoming Overtakes Delaware For Most Per Capita Incorporations In The Nation

Wyoming had 45,000 new business incorporations last year, a 45% jump that allowed it to overtake Delaware in the number of new registrations per capita. It continues a 10-year spike for the state as a popular place to register a business.

Renée JeanDecember 06, 2024

The Powell Farm Store is one of five Big Horn Co-op stores set to close at the end of the year.

Big Horn Co-op Is Closing Five Stores Across Wyoming’s Bighorn Basin

Big Horn Co-op has a 101-year history in Wyoming, starting in 1923. But changes to the retail landscape have finally caught up with the cooperative, which will close five of its farm stores in small towns across the Bighorn Basin.

Renée JeanDecember 06, 2024

The hit Western "Longmire," based on the novels of Wyoming author Craig Johnson, is coming to the end of a long run on Netflix this month.

"Longmire's" Long Run On Netflix To End, Craig Johnson Wants A Network Revival

Netflix will stop its long run of the hit Western "Longmire" at the end of the month. Although it's alread been picked up by Paramount+, Wyoming author Craig Johnson hopes for a network TV revival of the series.

Renée JeanDecember 04, 2024

Rare Element Resources has already started operations at its rare earths demonstration plant in Upton, Wyoming.

China’s Ban On Rare Earth Exports Good News For Huge Wyoming Projects

China issued a ban Tuesday on exporting to the U.S. critical rare earth minerals for semiconductors, infrared, fiber optics and military explosives. But representatives of Wyoming’s huge rare earths projects say the ban is good news for them.

Renée JeanDecember 04, 2024

Teton County, Wyoming, is again the nation's wealthiest, with a per capita income of more than $471,000 and median household income of $1.3 million.

Teton County Still Richest In The Nation; Wealth Hits New High

Teton County continues to be the nation’s wealthiest county with the mean household income at $1.13 miliion. The surge in wealth has contributed to a host of problems, including a lack of affordable housing.

Renée JeanDecember 03, 2024

The site about 20 miles southwest of Green River could produce 6 million tons of soda ash and sodium bicarbonate a year.

Turkish Company Offers $285 Million To Buy Interest In Huge Wyoming Trona Mine

Sisecam, a Turkish company, is offering $285 million to buy out a minority stake in one of Wyoming’s huge new trona mines.

Renée JeanDecember 02, 2024

Alea West tends bar at the Lamp Lounge in Cheyenne. She says that while she relies on tips, she thinks the "tipping culture" trend has gone too far.

Tipping In Wyoming: Even Some Bartenders Are Saying It's Out Of Control

According to one poll, 72% of U.S. adults feel that tipping is expected in a lot more places today than five years ago. And while most are fine with tipping in a sit-down restaurant or a bar, only a fraction believe tipping in a coffee shop or a fast food joint is OK.

Renée JeanNovember 30, 2024

Turkeys and livestock guard dogs follow Corinna around at Schadey's Acres as she prepares to lay down a line of grains for the birds to eat.

Life On The Farm: Raising Turkeys and Yaks In Albany County, Wyoming

When Michigan HOA rules wouldn't allow Corinna and Patrick Schade to grow at least some of their food, they moved to Wyoming. Now they've raised more than 350 heritage turkeys alongside a growing herd of yaks in Albany County.

Renée JeanNovember 30, 2024

Drinking Wyoming: Melvin Brewing, State’s Largest Brewery, Is About To Get Bigger

A merger between Melvin and Roadhouse Brewing in Jackson in 2022 has positioned Wyoming’s largest brewery to grow even more. The brewery is already beating national sales trends, and it’s looking to add more new products and keep growing.

Renée JeanNovember 29, 2024

Janelle Jones stands in front of the new HAWK crossing at McCormick Junior High in Cheyenne installed in memory of her son, Mak. Janelle and her charity forMak helped get the new crossing built where her son Makaili “Mak” Evans, was hit by a car and killed in 2021.

Cheyenne Mom Has Turned Tragedy Into A Crusade For Safer Streets

Janelle Jones lost her son Mak when a distracted driver hit him in a Cheyenne crosswalk. Janelle has since been on a crusade for safer streets and stricter penalties for distracted drivers.

Renée JeanNovember 28, 2024

Not long ago, Ayden Skillman of Greybull, Wyoming, was in the hospital recovering from a heart transplant. Now he's finally home.

Wyoming Boy Born Without Complete Heart Finally Home After Successful Transplant

Ayden Skillman of Greybull was born without a complete heart and has spent much of his young life in hospitals. Now the 18-year-old is back home after a successful heart transplant and doctors say he's doing extremely well.

Renée JeanNovember 28, 2024

Basketball coaches for Cheyenne’s East, South and Central schools had their players work together on a Thanksgiving food drive, bringing a dozen truckloads of food to ther Comea House and Resource Center.

Rival Cheyenne Basketball Teams Donate 12 Truckloads Of Food To Local Shelter

The basketball coaches and players for Cheyenne East, South and Central high schools are rivals on the court. Off it, they teamed up to collect enough Thanksgiving food for a local shelter to fill 12 trucks.

Renée JeanNovember 27, 2024

Coal trains leaving the Powder River Basin in northeast Wyoming full and returning empty.

BLM Outlaws Coal In Powder River Basin; Gordon Says Prepare For A Fight

The BLM has made it official Tuesday — it’s ending new coal leases in the Powder River Basin, with an eye to producing no more coal after 2041. Gov. Mark Gordon says those are fighting words.

Renée JeanNovember 27, 2024

Charles Hoskinson talks about Wyoming's process for bidding vendors for its new stable token.

Wyoming-Based Crypto Founder Slams State Over Stable Token Bid Process

Wyoming rancher Charles Hoskinson has one of the top 10 cryptocurrency platforms in the nation, but he’s not eligible to bid to be a vendor for Wyoming’s stable token. He’s blasting the state over its bidding process, calling it unfair.

Renée JeanNovember 26, 2024

Bill Gates-Backed TerraPower Strikes Deal To Get Laser-Enriched Uranium

Bill Gates-backed TerraPower and the nuclear plant it's building in southwest Wyoming have secured another potential source of uranium. It’s struck a deal to get laser-enriched uranium.

Renée JeanNovember 24, 2024

FE Warren missiles out front Unknown 2 7 11 24

F.E. Warren Air Force Base Exploring Geothermal Power To Boost Resiliency Against Catastrophe

Cheyenne’s F.E. Warren Air Force Base, which houses the nation’s nuclear missiles, is exploring geothermal energy to build up the military base’s resiliency. Geothermal power could ensure the base is functional, even if the overall power grid goes down.

Renée JeanNovember 23, 2024

Cheyenne resident Dr. Karen Meister-Emerich loves her new Cybertruck because it reminds her of a Delorean and it's packed with technology. The 75-year-old grandma breaks the mold of the typical Tesla owner.

Meet The Baby Boomer Wyoming Grandma Who Breaks The Mold Of A Cybertruck Owner

The typical Tesla owner is an upper-middle-class man in his 50s. 75-year-old Karen Meister-Emerich, a grandma from Cheyenne, doesn't fit that demographic but loves her Cybertruck, which she bought because she missed out on buying a DeLorean.

Renée JeanNovember 23, 2024

A crew works on the site of the CK Gold Project near Curt Gowdy State Park in southern Wyoming.

Wyoming’s Only Gold Mine Gets Green Light From State

Wyoming’s only gold mine near Curt Gowdy State Park has gotten a green light from state regulators. It’s a step closer to actually pulling gold out of the ground. US Gold believes the site could hold 1 million ounces of gold.

Renée JeanNovember 20, 2024

Bryan Clay, 2008 Olympic gold madalist in the decathlon, talks about his playbook for becoming a champion. It's a playbook that works for anyone who wants to achieve greatness and their goals in life.

Olympic Gold Medalist Bryan Clay Shares Playbook For Being A Champion In Life

Bryan Clay won the gold medal in decathlon at the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in China. He was in Wyoming this past week sharing his playbook for not only being a champion in athletics, but in life.

Renée JeanNovember 18, 2024

Call of the Wyld has become a popular destination for visitors to Jackson, Wyoming.

TikTok-Famous Jackson Dogsled Business Started With A Dog And A Dream

Call of the Wyld dogsled tours has become a popular destination for Jackson visitors, driven by its popular TikTok channel. Customers say her TikTok stream made them decide to book. They've since doubled the size of its operation more than once, and they own 75 sled dogs.

Renée JeanNovember 17, 2024

A dairy cow at Shumway Farms with the retail store in the background.

Food Freedom Act Saved Star Valley’s Last Remaining ‘Little Switzerland’ Dairy

Jody Shumway had grit, stubbornness and creativity. But it ultimately took the Food Freedom Act to save Star Valley’s last "Little Switzerland" dairy. Shumway Farms now sells premium products direct to consumer, saving their 5th-generation farm.

Renée JeanNovember 17, 2024

A still shot from a Fading West video showing a modular housing unit being placed on a pad.

Modular Homes Could Be An Answer To Busting Wyoming’s Housing Crunch

One estimate shows Wyoming needs more than 38,000 homes. Economic developers say it's hampering efforts to attract new businesses and workforce to the state. Modular homes could be the solution if the stigma can be overcome.

Renée JeanNovember 16, 2024

On the floor of a natural gas drilling rig, roughnecks move 25-ton blocks over a section of drilling pipe 8 miles north of Evanston, Wyoming, in this file photo.

Wyoming Has Lost 10,000 Mining, Oil And Gas Jobs Over Past Decade

Wyoming has lost 10,000 jobs in the natural resources and mining sector over the past decade, UW economist Anne Alexander said. Other job categories have stayed close to the same, or increased, but the mining category -- which includes oil and gas jobs — has dropped precipitously.

Renée JeanNovember 16, 2024

A group of southeast Wyoming ranchers are exploring a plan to store carbon dioxide emissions underneath their land.

Carbon Storage Planned Under Wyoming’s Historic C.B. Irwin Ranch, And Others

A group of Wyoming ranchers, including the historic C.B. Irwin Ranch where Steamboat once lived, have joined forces to attract companies to store carbon dioxide emissions under their ranches. Collectively, they have 102,000 acres available.

Renée JeanNovember 13, 2024

Custodia Bank CEO Caitln Long, left, and President-elect Donald Trump.

Trump Presidency Gives Hope To Crypto Community In Wyoming

Wyoming’s digital asset laws have been praised as innovative and ground-breaking, but have faced difficulties under the Biden Administration. President-elect Donald Trump has promised to be friendlier to digital assets.

Renée JeanNovember 12, 2024

Enhanced Oil Recovery Is Coming To Wyoming To Unlock Trapped Oil and Gas

Oil and gas wells typically leave behind 85% or so of available resources. Enhanced oil and gas recovery is key to more economical wells, and several companies are eyeing field tests in Wyoming for that.

Renée JeanNovember 12, 2024

Worland’s Grant Ujifusa, Who Changed Reagan’s Mind And Was Knighted By Japan, Dies

Grant Ujifusa helped persuade President Ronald Reagan to support reparations for Japanese Americans interned at camps like Heart Mountain during World War II. Ujifusa, who grew up in Wyoming, has died and will be buried in Worland. He was 82.

Renée JeanNovember 11, 2024

The new-look Wheels Motel in Greybull, Wyoming.

Wheels Motel In Greybull Gets Modern Update For A New Generation Of Visitors

Since taking over his parents’ motel in Greybull, Chris Harwood and his wife Roxana have turned the Wheels Motel into a homey, modern stop. The young couple didn't think they would ever live in Greybull but now can't think of a better place to raise their family.

Renée JeanNovember 10, 2024

Drinking Wyoming: Sheridan’s Frackelton’s Is Back— Again — With Elevated Cocktails

Frackelton’s has struggled to find a footing in an ever-tighter market, but the Sheridan favorite appears to be well and truly back now. And its bar scene is stronger than ever with elevated cocktails.

Renée JeanNovember 10, 2024

The night sky is the perfect backdrop for The Mint Bar's iconic sign, setting it off like a gemstone in a jewelry box.

Drinking Wyoming: The Mint Bar Has Come To Life Every Night For 117 Years

If there's one bar in the Cowboy State that says "Wyoming," it might just be The Mint. The legendary neon bucking horse and cowboy has lit up Sheridan's Main Street since 1938 and has been a fixture in the state since 1907.

Renée JeanNovember 09, 2024

A formerly Chinese-owned cryptocurrency mining operation that was built about a mile from F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne. In May 2024, President Joe Biden by executive order forced the Chinese-owned company to sell it.

Following Wyoming Example, Feds Limit Foreign Crypto Mines Near Military Bases

The U.S. Department of Treasury has moved to limit businesses like foreign-owned crypto mines near sensitive locations. The change follows the forced closure of a Chinese-owned crypto mine near F.E. Warren Air Force Base.

Renée JeanNovember 08, 2024

$9M For Mesa Solutions Expansion Could Unlock $20M Annual Impact For Casper Area

A $9 million grant from the Wyoming Business Council will allow Mesa Solutions to expand its footprint in the energy sector. It also could unlock a $20 million annual impact for the Casper area.

Renée JeanNovember 07, 2024

Wyoming pumpjacks Getty Images 829782338 11 7 24

More Details Emerge About Blockbuster Anschutz PRB Oil And Gas Deal

Occidental Petroleum has offered more details to Cowboy State Daily about the blockbuster oil and gas deal that has Anschutz acquiring Oxy/Anadarko assets in the PPB. Occidental says it’s keeping 150,000 acres it considers “core."

Renée JeanNovember 07, 2024

Former President, and now President-Elect Donald Trump said he plans to make good on his campaign promise to "drill, baby, drill."

Trump Signals Huge Support For Oil & Gas During Victory Speech, Wyoming Industry Leaders Thrilled

It didn’t take long for former President Donald Trump to hype up America's oil and gas industry after he won the 2024 presidential election Tuesday. Wyoming industry leaders say Trump's victory is also a win for U.S. oil and gas.

Renée JeanNovember 06, 2024

House District 10: Eklund, R, Rolls To Easy Win To Retain Seat In Legislature

John Eklund, R-Cheyenne, won reelection to his House District 10 seat Tuesday with a huge margin of nearly 2,000 votes over his challenger, Timothy Forbis.

Renée JeanNovember 06, 2024

House District 7: Republican Incumbent Bob Nicholas Cruises To Win

Rep. Bob Nicholas, R-Cheyenne, easily won reelection to House District 7 in Tuesday’s general election.

Renée JeanNovember 06, 2024

Blockbuster Deal Has Anschutz Getting Oxy/Anadarko Oil And Gas Interests In PRB

The Powder River Basin’s largest private oil and gas operator is getting a lot bigger. In a blockbuster deal, Anschutz has sent notices to Powder River Basin operators that it’s acquired the working interests in Oxy/Anadarko in the PRB.

Renée JeanNovember 05, 2024

The Crystal Castle 23 miles west of Cheyenne near Crystal Lake was built in the 1960s by a man named Harry Widholm, who used 30,000 glass embalming fluid bottles to create a lake cabin — his castle away from home.

Wyoming’s Crystal Castle, Made Of Embalming Fluid Bottles, Is For Sale For $325K

Vicki Launer has decided to sell Wyoming’s Crystal Castle near Crystal Lake and Curt Gowdy State Park for $325,000. The one-bedroom, one-bath home was made using embalming fluid bottles as bricks.

Renée JeanNovember 04, 2024

The Black Hills region of northeast Wyoming is starting to take off as a place where homebuyers can get more luxury for less. This 5,765-square-foot home features five bedrooms, five bathrooms and a lot of tech, like a robot lawnmower and self-cleaning pool.

$2.5 Million Black Hills Mansion In Northeast Wyoming Filled With Tech

Real Estate in the Black Hills of northeast Wyoming has started taking off, with people realizing that they can get more luxury for less. A $2.5 million five-bedroom, five-bath mansion is the latest example, filled with tech like a robot lawnmower and self-cleaning pool.

Renée JeanNovember 04, 2024

Members of the Elk Fire Burned Area Emergency Response Team assess the damage left by the wildfire and what will need to be done to repair or mitigate damages or other threats, like potential for invasive weeds, mudslides and debris flows.

Scientists Map Out How Badly Elk Fire Damaged The 98,000 Acres It Ravaged

With the Elk Fire 88% contained and growing cooler, the problems are just beginning for the 98,000 acres of land ravaged by the wildfire. Scientists are now mapping out how badly the fire damaged the land and how to repair it.

Renée JeanNovember 03, 2024