Headlines

From Casper to Laramie: Metro Coffee Company Expands with New Downtown Location

After more than two decades serving the Casper community, Metro Coffee Company is bringing its signature drinks, fresh food, and creative energy to a brand-new location on Ivinson Avenue—right across the street from the legendary Buckhorn Bar.

After A Quiet Stretch, Jackson Hole’s Real Estate Market Is Stretching Its Legs Again

From single-family homes to ski-town condos, the market is showing signs of balance after the post-pandemic boom and the cooldown that followed.

Investing in Wyoming’s Homegrown Innovation

Wyoming is full of big ideas—and now, more than ever, the state is investing in the people who bring them to life.

Hathaway & Kunz Celebrates 50 Years of Leading the Way in Wyoming Law 

This year, as the law firm of Hathaway & Kunz celebrates its 50th anniversary, it does so as a recognized leader in one of the nation's most rapidly evolving areas of law: Digital assets, blockchain, and token offerings.

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Morning Show with Jake — Friday, March 7, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Morning Show with Jake — Thursday, March 6, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

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Cowboy State Daily Video News: Thursday, March 6, 2025

Thursday's headlines include: * Cheney Building On DOGE Chopping Block * Legislature Overrides Gov's Abortion Veto * Prepare For Total Blood Red Lunar Eclipse 

Evanston Woman Accused Of Driving Off With Arresting Cops In Her Truck

An Evanston, Wyoming, woman will be in court Thursday after being accused of driving off with two cops in her truck. She was mad that a local grocery store wouldn’t sell her prescription drugs, and even called 911 to report the cops were harassing her.

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 36

The 36th and next-to-last day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session featured overrides of multiple vetoes the governor made and discussion about adding 14% more on to a 25% property tax cut already signed into law by the governor.

Legislature Overrides Governor’s Veto Of Ultrasound Abortion Bill

The Wyoming Legislature on Wednesday overrode Gov. Mark Gordon’s veto of a bill requiring women to get ultrasounds before getting abortion pills. The Senate voted 22-9 to override and the House voted 45-16.

The American West: Mountain Man Extraordinaire - Mariano Medina

Mountain Man Mariano Medina built a post near present Loveland, Colorado that was “a known location for the ‘pony trade,’ ‘Whites,’ ‘Mexicans’ and ‘Indians’ who traded on a regular schedule in the Big Thompson Valley."

Tom Lubnau: Actually, The Wyoming Senate Is More Conservative Than The House

Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "The Senate did not react well to pressure from mysterious puppet masters. When dealing with the budget the upper chamber instead coalesced into a cohesive body. Leadership agreed to kill the budget, and no one on the Senate floor made a move to overrule Leadership."

Senate Overrides Gordon’s Veto Of DOGE-Esque Bill To Scrutinize State Agency Rules

The Wyoming Senate overrode Gov. Mark Gordon’s veto of a bill Wednesday that will bring DOGE-esque scrutiny to Wyoming’s state agencies and their rules. Gordon calls the law “another solution in search of a problem.”

Rediscovery Of ‘Extinct’ Rabbit Mirrors Finding Wyoming Black-Footed Ferrets

A rabbit species thought to be extinct for 120 years was recently found in Mexico, mirroring the rediscovery of black-footed ferrets near Meeteetse, Wyoming, in 1981.

Wyoming Ban On Sanctuary Cities Hits Gordon's Desk

A law banning sanctuary city immigration policies in Wyoming awaits a signature or veto from Gov. Mark Gordon after the Legislature approved it Wednesday. Meanwhile, four U.S. mayors were grilled by Congress over their immigration-friendly policies.

Full Lunar Eclipse Directly Over Wyoming Will Make Moon Look Blood-Red

A total lunar eclipse just after midnight March 14 will be positioned directly over Wyoming, which means Wyomingites will have an excellent view of the all-night event. It’ll be hard to miss — the moon will look blood-red.

Wyoming Congressional Delegation Mum On Defunding NPR And PBS

A bill to stop funding National Public Radio and the PBS Newshour might seem like a slam-dunk to pass a Republican-controlled Congress. But it's not so simple, says U.S. Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso.

Winter Surge Could Dump 20 Inches Of Snow On Parts Of Wyoming

Nearly all of Wyoming will see snow sometimes between Wednesday night through Friday from an incoming wet winter storm. The surge could dump as much as 20 inches on Casper Mountain and South Pass, and a foot in central and northwest Wyoming.

Wyoming Governor Signs Trans Bathroom, Changing Room Ban Into Law

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon signed a bill that allows people to sue the state if they encounter a biologically born male in a female-designated restroom or changing room in a public facility, and vice versa.

Dick Cheney Federal Building In Casper Shows Up On Federal Hit List To Be Sold

Dick Cheney has been on President Donald Trump’s political hit list for some time. Now a federal building named for the former vice president was on a Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE) hit list to be sold amid a federal downsizing frenzy.

Gordon Signs 25% Property Tax Cut Into Law, More Relief Still Possible

Wyoming homeowners can plan on receiving a 25% reduction off their taxes due to Gov. Mark Gordon signing Senate Enrolled Act 60 into law on Tuesday night. Even more relief is possible as another bill is still being considered.

Morning Show with Jake — Wednesday, March 5, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Barrasso, Lummis Cheer Trump's Speech and “Commitment To American Greatness”

Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis cheered President Donald Trump's speech to a joint session of Congress Tuesday night. Barrasso said Trump has shown a “commitment to American greatness" while Lummis praised the president's "lightning speed" in getting things done.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Wednesday, March 5, 2025

Wednesday's headlines include: * Gov Signs Universal School Vouchers Bill * New Legal Strategy To Open Up Ports For Coal * Family Of Missing Moorcroft Man Desperate For Answers

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.

Wyoming Governor Signs Government DEI Ban Into Law

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon signed into a law a bill banning DEI programs at government agencies, while also vetoing another similar bill. The bill he vetoed, he said, was ill-defined and overly broad. 

Prosecutor Says No Evidence Of Antifreeze After Woman Nearly Dies From Spiked Drink

Park County, Wyoming, officials say there’s no evidence that a woman was poisoned with antifreeze from a spiked drink at a Cody bar New Year’s Eve. But the woman nearly died, and her mother questions the investigation.

Wyoming Legislative Recap Day 35

Day 35 of the Wyoming Legislature saw overrides on a few of Gov. Mark Gordon’s vetoes from the previous night and a few other bills sent to his desk.

Former Roommate Of Wyoming Man Accused Of Murdering Woman Says He's Not Insane

The former roommate of Joseph Underwood, who’s accused of killing a woman and dumping her body in a Park County, Wyoming, ravine, says he isn't insane. He says Underwood is probably trying to cheat justice with his insanity plea.

Wolf Torture Leads List Of New High-Profile Wyoming Wildlife Laws

A “clean-kill” predator law prompted by the high-profile torture of a wolf leads a list of new Wyoming wildlife rules. This 2025 session also saw new regulations for fishing guides and dogs caught in traps.

The American West: Geronimo - Master Guerrilla Fighter

The fierce Chiricahua Apache fighter Geronimo had an all-out war that spanned the American-Mexican border as he defended his people and their way of life, eluding the army for decades.

Candy Moulton: All Aboard! Let’s Get Amtrak Back

Candy writes: “Next to traveling on a wagon, taking a ride on a train very well may be my favorite mode of transportation.”

Senate Kills Seven Election Bills, Including Ban On Ballot Drop Boxes

It was a mass-killing of bills in one sitting when the Wyoming Senate let seven election security bills die going into the last week of the session. They were part of a slate of election bills pushed by Chuck Gray, who criticized the move.

Wyoming Can’t Cut Trees Fast Or Soon Enough, Timber Industry Says

Wyoming needs to kick its timber cutting into high gear or risk another catastrophic wildfire season, foresters told the Legislature on Tuesday. The danger is especially high in the Black Hills region, they say.

Wyoming Legislature Overrides Governor’s Mystery Drone Veto

The Wyoming Legislature on Tuesday afternoon overrode the governor’s veto of a bill that gives local officials authority to deal with mystery drones over critical infrastructure. That includes allowing law enforcement to bring them down.

Family of Missing Moorcroft Man Refuse To Give Up As They Revamp Billboard Again

It’s going on six years since Moorcroft's Chance Englebert vanished while visiting in-laws in Nebraska. His family remains desperate for any news of him, so every two years they repair a billboard to repair the faded image and peeling vinyl.

Barrasso Says Senate Democrats Who Killed Federal Trans Sports Law 'Out Of Touch'

Sen. John Barrasso says Senate Democrats are "out of touch" in blocking a federal bill Monday to ban males from female school sports. The move came days after two bills that would have expanded Wyoming’s state-level trans sports ban died, while one remains viable.

Gordon To Sign Bill To Provide $7,000 Per Child School Vouchers For K-12

Gov. Mark Gordon says he’ll sign a bill that creates a universal school voucher system for K-12 and expand the state’s existing pre-K program. That means $7,000 per child to pay for private education for parents who choose it.

Wyoming Fights Biden Rule Some Say Tries To Price Out Oil And Gas Operators

Wyoming legislators have fought back against a Biden administration effort some say tries to price out oil and gas producers by hiking bond rates 1,400% and more. A $45 million pool of money will help those operators with their bonding.

Along Montana-Canada Border, Tariffs Could Spike Prices For Beer, Fishing Lures

A lot of commerce flows across the 545 miles of border between Montana and Canada. With promised 25% tariffs going into effect Tuesday, locals expect prices for all kinds of things to spike, including beer and fishing lures.

Gordon Vetoes Bill To Fight Mystery Drones, Wyoming Sheriff Still Worried

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a bill late Monday meant to give state law enforcement more options to deal with mystery drones over critical infrastructure. Meanwhile, one Wyoming sheriff says the mysterious aircraft are still being reported.

Morning Show with Jake — Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Gordon Vetoes Bill Requiring Women To Get Ultrasounds Before Abortions

Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a bill Monday night that would require women in Wyoming get ultrasounds before getting the abortion pill. He called the proposal “personally invasive” and an “often medically unnecessary procedure.”

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Tuesday's headlines include: Monster $1.4 Billion Trona Deal Last Minute Supplemental Budget Doomed Laramie Firefighter Paralyzed After Being Crushed

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 34

With only days left in the 2025 Wyoming legislative session, tempers Monday were flaring over the supplemental budget being scrapped and what that means for the items inside it.

Gordon Reluctantly Allows New Law Voiding Out-Of-State Driver’s Licenses For Illegals

Gov. Mark Gordon reluctantly let a bill pass into law that voids out-of-state driver’s licenses for illegal immigrants. He says he’s concerned the new law will violate a compact Wyoming has with other states.

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.

Dubois Double-Amputee Wrestler Wins State Championship

Sammie Cyrus, a senior double-amputee wrestler from Dubois High School, capped his career as a state champion. Cyrus won the Class 2A 106-pound division during this past weekend at the Wyoming state tournament in Casper.

Cheyenne Lawyer, Rancher Karen Budd-Falen Accepts Top Interior Department Post

Karen Budd-Falen, a Cheyenne rancher and lawyer, has been named to a high-level post in President Trump’s Interior Department. She tells Cowboy State Daily she accepted an offer to be associate deputy secretary for the department.

Lummis, Hageman Hail Trump’s Halt To ‘Burdensome’ Disclosures On Small Businesses

Sen. Cynthia Lummis and Rep. Harriet Hageman are cheering a Sunday decision by President Trump’s Treasury secretary to halt “burdensome” disclosure rules for small businesses. They call the move a “major win” for small businesses across Wyoming.

Driskill, Bear Throw Down With Accusations Of Lying, Wasting Tax Money

The legislative session may be winding down, but mudslinging between leading members of the Wyoming House and Senate is in mid-session form. Ogden Driskill and John Bear spent part of the weekend accusing each other of lying and wasting tax money.

Guest Column: Wyoming Senate Delivered Historic, Conservative Wins

Wyoming Senate President Bo Biteman writes, "We have all heard of the 'five and dime' plan, but I stand with the people of Wyoming who say 'not another dime' when it comes to growing government."

Lone Survivor Of Triple-Fatal Drunk Driver Crash 'Wouldn't Wish It On Anyone'

The drunk Casper man who killed three people in a crash in May 2022 has been sentenced to 18-20 years, according to a court order filed Friday. Meanwhile, the only survivor of that crash says she still replays the horrific scene in her head every day.

Clair McFarland: Sure, False Spring, I’ll Fall For You

Columnist Clair McFarland writes, "I’m not blind to the fact that it’s going to snow tomorrow. This warm spell was a trickster and a flirt, designed to put me off my guard. And it succeeded."

Wyoming Homeschoolers “Thrilled” To Be Free Of Reporting Requirement

Wyoming homeschool families say they are “thrilled” with the passage of the Homeschool Freedom Act. It means they don't have to submit their curricula to local school districts.

The American West: Charlie Siringo’s Cowboy Days

Charlie Siringo is best remembered for his years as a detective, undercover agent, and manhunter with the Pinkerton Agency, including his pursuit of Butch Cassidy and his accomplices in robbing trains. But Siringo was a cowboy before he was a Pinkerton detective.

Laramie Firefighter Paralyzed After Being Crushed In House Fire Collapse

A Laramie firefighter is facing a long rehabilitation after being paralyzed when a stone fireplace chase collapsed on him while fighting a house fire late Friday. His father told Cowboy State Daily that doctors believe his spinal cord is still intact.

Dave Simpson: Blame It All On The Freedom Caucus?

Columnist Dave Simpson writes, “Keep in mind that the awful stuff you hear about the Freedom Caucus might be what Sen. Larry Hicks calls fertilizer.”

Bill Moving Through Montana Legislature Would Let Parents Sue Over Drag Shows

Wyoming lawmakers recently chose not to advance a bill outlawing the use of public money for drag shows. Across the border in Montana, a bill is moving through the Legislature that would let parents sue over "hypersexualized" shows.

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.

Trump Making English Official Language Long Overdue, Wyoming Delegation Says

President Donald Trump’s Saturday order making English the official language of the United States was long overdue, says Wyoming’s congressional delegation. Wyoming has already designated English the state’s official language.

Senate Rejects Last-Ditch House Compromise To Salvage Wyoming Budget

A last-ditch House compromise to salvage a supplemental budget from this Wyoming legislative session was rejected by the Senate on Monday. It paves the way for a mad dash to cram pieces of the budget into other bills.

Man Applying To Be Jail Officer Allegedly Admits Molesting Kids During Polygraph

A Gillette, Wyoming, man who tried to get a job as a detention officer is now incarcerated in the jail where he’d hoped to work. That’s because during a pre-employment polygraph, he confessed to molesting children, court documents allege.

Morning Show with Jake — Monday, March 3, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Before They Become Bull Riders, Wyoming Rodeo Kids Learn On Steers

Rodeo is a way of life for many Wyoming families, which means kids are learning to ride and rope almost as soon as they can walk. Before they become bull riders, these budding stars learn on steers.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Monday, March 3, 2025

Monday's headlines include: - Commercial Truck Fatalities Spike - Wyo/Montana Hottest Real Estate Markets - The Remarkable Medieval-style Mead Hall In Wyo

After 110 Years, Hotel LaBonte In Douglas Keeps The Old West Alive

Fifth-generation Converse County rancher Keith Moore and his wife Macey bought the Hotel LaBonte in Douglas 10 years ago because of their affinity for old buildings and downtown revitalization. Its past includes a historic old west shootout and plenty of ghostly happenings.

Southeast Wyoming To Get Blasted By Heavy Snow And 55MPH Winds On Monday

A fast-moving low-pressure system centering on southeast Wyoming could dump several inches of snow in Cheyenne and Laramie late Monday. Winds could top 55 mph during the snowstorm. A Winter Storm Watch has been issued.

The American West – Writing Advice From John Steinbeck

People often lose sight of John Steinbeck as a Western writer. Born in California, half of his published books take place in his native state or in Mexico. Some feature the theme of Westering – traveling toward the goal of California.

It's A Real Job: “Dinosaur Erection Specialist” Positions Dino Skeletons At Museum

Ry Williams is a self-described “dinosaur erection specialist” who’s a lot like a window dresser at a department store, except instead of arranging mannequins he poses and positions delicate, huge and ancient dinosaur skeletons -- many of which are from Wyoming.

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.

Country Music Stars Launching New Field & Stream Branded Hotel In Montana

Country music stars Eric Church and Morgan Wallen are building a Field & Stream-themed lodge in the middle of hotel boom in Bozeman, Montana. It promises guests a throwback summer camp experience filled with the magazine’s outdoors nostalgia.

Montana, Wyoming Top List Of Fastest-Selling Real Estate Markets

A new real estate report shows Wyoming, Montana, and Alaska are the fastest-selling real estate markets in the nation. Inventory in Wyoming is very low -- ranging from 1.79% in Natrona County to 2.05% in Sweetwater County to 5.63% in Park County.

Yellowstone Hack: You Can Save A Lot Of Time By Using The East Entrance

In planning your next trip to Yellowstone, you may want to consider the East Entrance. It could be a time-saver. For example, in 2024, 773,144 vehicles passed through Yellowstone’s West Entrance while only 36,948 vehicles passed through the East Entrance.

The English Westerner Society: Brits Obsessed with Wyoming, Outlaws And All Things Cowboy

The English Westerner Society started in the 1950s to give American West enthusiasts in England a place to talk about their favorite topic. Mike Bell is one of those British enthusiasts. He has written several books on Butch Cassidy and Wyoming outlaws.

Cassie Craven:  The Wild Bunch Is Wyoming

Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “Gordon’s letter quoted an unnamed neighbor: ‘This wild bunch doesn’t understand Wyoming.’ With all due respect, Governor, the wild bunch was elected in a near landslide, despite your big-time money and endorsements trying to stack the deck. Maybe you and your friends don’t understand Wyoming.”

Rod Miller: The 800-Pound Gorilla In The Wyoming Classroom 

Columnist Rod Miller writes: "Absent the immediate writing and passage of an amendment to the Wyoming Constitution that says lawmakers can do what they damn well please with school funding, our citizen legislature has its work cut out for it. And it all circles back to our Constitution."

Wyoming History: When The Waltzing Mouse Was The Most Popular Pet In America

More than a century ago, the waltzing mouse exploded as the most popular pet in America. Now we know these spazzed-out tiny rodents have a neurological disorder, but then they were beloved for their “dancing.”

Netflix Docuseries On Gabby Petito Murder Puts Wyoming In Spotlight Again

The search for Gabby Petito in fall 2021 had the world watching northwest Wyoming. The missing YouTuber was ultimately found murdered in Bridger-Teton National Forest, and a new Netflix docuseries puts Teton County Coroner Brent Blue and the investigative team in the spotlight again.

FBI Seeks Ethete Man Accused Of Working With 'Probable' Drug Cartel Member

The FBI is seeking information regarding the whereabouts of Collie Judson Warren, 49, who is wanted on suspicion of dealing meth. Court documents say Warren worked with a man with "probable" Mexican drug cartel ties near the Wind River Reservation.

Tom Lubnau: Wyoming's Constitution Demands Fairer Teacher Pay

Columnist Tom Lubnau writes: "The Legislature has played games with teacher pay. Sometimes lawmakers dole out an increase just for one budget year, so the pay would slump right back down after that year - falling even further behind inflation."

Wyoming Hunter Beats Huge Odds, Draws ‘Super Tag Trifecta’ To Hunt 3 Species

Nate Miller of Thermopolis put in for Wyoming’s Super Tag hunting tag raffle, not expecting to win anything. He beat astronomical odds to drew the most coveted prize of all, the three-species “trifecta” tag.

Letter To The Editor: Why Does Wyoming Still Support President Trump?

Dear editor: I’m wondering what it will take for the Wyoming Trump supporters here in Wyoming to see the truth. The free world knows now that Trump is working for Putin.

Joan Barron: Legislature Pedaling Back 50 Years

Columnist Joan Barron writes, "The recent movement to ignore the supplemental budget is clearly Freedom Caucus-inspired and is meant, at least partially, to target and embarrass Gov. Mark Gordon."

Bill Sniffin: Two Funerals, Two Monte’s, And An Inspirational Dream 

Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “This column is a somewhat different from my normal writings. It just seemed important to share these stories with you today.”

Glenrock Woman Spends Final Days In Hospice Writing Book, Getting Tattoos

A 43-year-old Glenrock mother of four, wife and business owner is facing her final days at a Casper hospice. She's got a 'bucket list' of things to do before she dies, which includes finishing her book and completing an inspirational tattoo sleeve of her left arm.

So What Exactly Is A Wyoming King Bed And How Big Is It?

Everyone knows about California King beds, but there’s a relatively new item in oversized mattresses. The Wyoming King is in the middle of the oversized mattress variants. It's bigger than a Texas King but smaller than an Alaskan or Alberta King.

White Mountain Handprints Near Rock Springs Unlike Any Other Petroglyphs

While there are hundreds of inscribed petroglyphs at the White Mountain Petroglyph Site north of Rock Springs, the deep handprints gouged into a sandstone pillar are unlike anything else. Scientists are struggling to understand them.

Where Are The Six Bodies Missing From Wyoming’s Smoky Row Cemetery?

As many as nine people were long believed to have been buried in the historic 1890 Smoky Row Cemetery in Hot Springs State Park in Wyoming. Now ground-penetrating radar shows six of them aren’t there, so where are the missing Smoky Row bodies?

Glenrock Man Has 5 Acres Of Rusted-Out Vintage Cars That Have Potential To Be Jewels

Gary Dickinson has 5 acres of rusted-out vintage cars that some might call a graveyard of junk. The Glenrock man says they’re half right — his old cars are junk, but they have the potential to become jewels.

The American West: How A Wyoming Outlaw Won A Gunfight With A Coffee Mug

When outlaw Tom O’Day was ambushed in a Thermopolis café back in 1903, a coffee cup was his only defense. Although O'Day was injured, he was declared the winner of the gunfight by newspapers all across Wyoming. The media lampooned the gunman for losing to a coffee cup.

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.

New Study Adds Momentum To Return Of Passenger Rail To Wyoming, Montana

A January report from the Federal Railroad Administration recommends restoring Amtrak routes across the West, including through Cheyenne. It specifically recommended passenger train travel across southern Wyoming and a north-south route to Billings.

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.

Girl Scouts Push Back On Claim That Cookies Have Unsafe Levels Of Weed-Killer Chemical

Going up against Joe Rogan is no easy task, but that's what the Girl Scouts are doing after he discussed a study that called its cookies "toxic." The Girl Scouts of Wyoming and Montana told Cowboy State Daily the cookies are "very safe to eat."

Beleaguered Assisted Living Center In Gillette Trying To Earn Back Public Trust

After making international headlines when an elderly female resident was found frozen in January, the Legacy Living and Rehabilitation Center in Gillette announced Friday it will continue to not admit new patients until it’s fully staffed and has reduced the number of contracted staff. 

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.

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 33

Day 33 of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session featured emotional testimony about closing Wyoming’s oldest K-8 school and money for a state shooting complex gutted.

Wyoming Workers Rally At Capitol To Protest Legislature, Trump Cuts

Around 150 Wyoming workers gathered outside the Capitol on Friday to protest moves by the Wyoming Legislature and Trump administration cuts.

Wyoming Delegation Backs Trump After Tense Meeting With Zelenskyy

Wyoming’s congressional delegation voiced strong support for President Trump after his explosive Friday meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. “It’s nice to have a president who puts America first,” Sen. Cynthia Lummis said.  

Boooo! Soda Can Moving On Its Own Captured On Video At Sweetwater County Jail

A soda can moving on its own was caught on video earlier this week at the Sweetwater County Detention Center in Rock Springs. Workers there say it's the latest evidence that the facility is haunted.

Jonathan Lange: Constitutional Duty Requires Officials Who Oppose Evil From Other Government Officials.

Columnist Jonathan Lange writes: “Wise officials in county governments have changed the unjust policies of an entire state just by saying ‘no.’ We saw that happen in Wyoming when some sheriffs refused to enforce COVID decrees.”

Wyoming Close To Outlawing Buying And Selling Of 'Sexual Contact'

After surviving a close vote Thursday and getting approval from the Senate on Friday, a bill that would criminalize the sale and purchase of “sexual contact” in Wyoming is closer to becoming law.

Keep China Away From US Military Bases, Energy, Say Lummis And Barrasso

U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis has introduced legislation to ban anyone affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party from buying property next to federal lands in America. Sen. John Barrasso is a co-sponsor, saying “opening the door” puts national security at risk.

The Roundup: A Conversation With Darin Westby

Wendy Corr chats with WYDOT director Darin Westby about the Green River tunnel disaster and the Teton Pass highway collapse. They also discuss his time with Wyoming State Parks, Cheyenne Frontier Days, and his family brewery in Cheyenne.

Wyoming Is Fifth State To Allow Guns In Public Schools Without Special Permission

With its pending elimination of gun-free zones, Wyoming will join New Hampshire, Alabama, Oregon and Utah in allowing people to carry concealed firearm in public school — without requiring the schools’ permission.

Wyoming To Make Rodeo-Themed License Plate In Response To PETA Rodeo Protest

A new Wyoming license plate that will be available next year will feature a rodeo theme. The lawmaker who pushed for new license plates says it was in response to a PETA effort to strip the bucking horse logo from plates because it glorifies rodeo.

Trucking Fatalities Have Increased Since Feds Stopped Suspending Truckers Who Can’t Read English

Fatalities involving large commercial trucks have been on the rise since 2016. That was the year the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued a memorandum telling safety inspectors not to suspend commercial drivers for failing to communicate well in English.

The American West: The Doomed Gold Rush Of Wyoming’s Wind River Canyon

In 1906, a gold rush erupted in Wyoming’s Copper Mountains above the Wind River Canyon. Asmus Boysen’s dream to build a dam and power for these mines was destined for ruin.

Letter To The Editor: The Working Animal Protection Act Threatens Animals And Local Communities

Dear editor: The Working Animal Protection Act opens the door to exploitation, from backyard breeders to roadside zoos. Worse, it could embolden bad actors in industries like puppy mills.

Plans For $19.5M Wyoming Shooting Complex Stall As Senate Pulls Promised $10M

Boosters of a $19.5 million shooting complex south of Cody, Wyoming, hoped to start construction in April. Those hopes were dashed Friday when the state Senate declined to release $10 million in promised money for the project.

Dennis Sun: Too Many Ag Cuts May Hurt Food Security

Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "Agriculture welcomes a more efficient government, but we are also worried tariffs and layoffs may cause extreme pain. I just hope Trump and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins realize their actions affect food security."

Property Tax Cut Bill Headed To Gov’s Desk, But Not Without Senator Calling It "Fertilizer"

A bill that would cut property taxes by 25% is officially headed to the governor’s desk, but not without some last-minute opposition from state Sen. Larry Hicks, who compared it to "fertilizer" for failing to provide backfill funding.

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.

Hours After Governor Signs New Abortion Law, Pro-Choice Group Files Lawsuit

Hours after Gov. Mark Gordon signed a new law regulating abortion clinics, with another heading to his desk, a pro-choice group has sued to block them. The lawsuit, filed at 1 a.m. Friday, claims the laws target Wyoming’s only abortion clinic.

Morning Show with Jake — Friday, February 28, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Friday, February 28, 2025

Friday's headlines include: - “Probable” Cartel Member Faces Life In Prison - Wyo Delegation Dismantling Biden Oil Gas Rules - Gordon Reluctantly Lets Gun-Free Zone Bill Go Into Law

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 32

The 32nd day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session saw Gov. Mark Gordon let a bill banning gun-free zones pass into law and lawmakers scrambling to smush parts of the supplemental budget that was thrown out on Wednesday into other bills.

Gordon Slams Legislators As He Lets Bill Banning Gun-Free Zones Go Into Law

Wyoming Gov Mark Gordon on Thursday let a bill banning gun-free zones go into law without his signature. In announcing his decision, he said the bill wasn’t about self-defense, rather it was about legislators “grabbing power.”

Parts Of Killed Supplemental Budget Getting Pushed Into Other Bills

Wyoming legislators were still grappling Thursday with their decision not to pass a supplemental budget. Instead, they’re trying to salvage parts of the budget by jamming them into other bills.

Cassie Craven:  Federal Politics Through the Lens of a Barmaid

Columnist Cassie Craven writes, "I worked at the local bar growing up. Other than a couple of churches and a post office, it was the only place for human contact. I’ve seen people live and die based on what the government wants to give them."

Rod Miller: Whiskeys I Have Known... Another Cautionary Tale

Columnist Rod Miller writes, "Please don’t misunderstand, this column does not advocate alcohol abuse. I believe it is up to the individual to come to their own terms with mind-altering substances, and to determine for themselves what 'abuse' means."

Hageman, Barrasso And Lummis Busy Helping Throw Out Biden’s Oil and Gas Rules

Hageman, Barrasso and Lummis are among Republicans who’ve been busy this week helping throw out Biden-era energy rules. They also helped defeat a Democrat-led challenge to Trump’s energy emergency declaration.

Sally Ann Shurmur: Casper Hosting The Best And Then Some Over Three Weekends

Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, "These three consecutive weekends were always my favorite time in my decades as a sportswriter, even though they have nothing to do with football."

Man With ‘Probable’ Drug Cartel Ties Could Get Life For Dealing Meth In Wyoming

An illegal immigrant with “probable” Mexican drug cartel ties was in federal court Thursday. Through an interpreter, he was told he could get 10 years to life in prison if convicted of dealing meth on the Wind River Reservation.

PETA To Get $35K Settlement After Denied Anti-Leather Ad In Rock Springs Airport

PETA says a settlement with the airport in Rock Springs allows the animal advocacy group to post an anti-leather ad and collect $35,000 in legal fees. The group sued after the ad had been rejected.

Casper Legislator Back On House Floor After Open Heart Surgery

State Rep. J.R. Riggins was back on the Wyoming House floor Thursday after missing almost all of the 2025 session with open heart surgery. He was given an ovation by the House, and called the attention “embarrassing.”

Scammer Selling Bogus Cheyenne Frontier Days Food Truck Applications

Wyoming food truck vendors are being scammed into paying bogus application fees in hopes of having a coveted spot at Cheyenne Frontier Days, the Cheyenne Police Department warns.

Wyoming Delegation Applauds Choice of UW Grad To Lead Forest Service

A University of Wyoming graduate has been picked as the new head of the U.S. Forest Service. Wyoming’s congressional delegation says Tom Schultz will “make America’s forests healthy and productive again.”

Montana Credit Union Worker Replaced $340,000 In Vault With Fake Money

When a credit union employee needed cash to feed his gambling habit, he bought fake cash from an online prop money company and swapped it with real bills in the vault. He pleaded guilty Tuesday to replacing $340,000 over seven months.

Wyoming Trans Bathroom Bans Headed To Governor's Desk

Wyoming legislators passed a bill Thursday that allows people to sue local governments if they allow biologically-born males to use women’s restrooms in public facilities, and vice versa. 

Nobody Can Figure Out Why Someone Cut Off And Took Mountain Lion’s Tail

Investigators are baffled by the case of somebody killing a mountain lion in Montana, and then cutting off and taking the animal’s head and tail. Taking a head makes sense, officials say, but the tail is baffling.

At 25%, Wyoming Senate, House Finally Agree On Property Tax Cut

After the Wyoming Senate and House couldn’t come together on a proposed property tax cut earlier in the week, they agreed on a 25% reduction Thursday. Now it appears on its way to the governor for approval.

Letter To The Editor: It's Time To End Rodeos

Dear editor: As a former bareback bronc rider, pathologist and large animal veterinarian, I have both the experience and autopsy proof that rodeo injures and kills animals.

The American West: The First Settlement Of Pueblo, Colorado

For many years, the first official, permanent settlement of today’s city of Pueblo, Colorado, has been credited to the noted mountain man, James P. Beckwourth. But Major Jacob Fowler may have been there twenty years earlier.

Lyman Man Accused Of Shooting Man 10 Times Pleads Insanity

The Wyoming State Hospital has about a month to offer an opinion on whether a Lyman man was too insane to know what he was doing when he allegedly killed another man last summer. The victim was shot 10 times near Fort Bridger.

Morning Show with Jake — Thursday, February 27, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Thursday, February 27, 2025

Thursday's headlines include: * Senate Says No To Supp Budget * Cartel Member Nabbed On Reservation * 43-Year Wyoming Fugitive Arrested In New Mexico

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 31

A huge announcement about the supplemental budget came on the 31st day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session Wednesday with the Senate saying it won’t pass a supplemental budget.

Wyoming Senate Drops Bombshell, Refuses To Pass Supplemental Budget

The Wyoming Senate dropped a bombshell Wednesday evening announcing that it won’t pass a supplemental budget this year. It could be the first time either the Senate or House has ever made such a move.

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.

Anti-Wolf Torture Bill Clears The Legislature, Headed To Gordon’s Desk

A bill calling for possible felony charges against people who torture predators cleared the Legislature on Wednesday and is headed to Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk.

Forest Service Chief’s Departure Fine By Us, Says Wyoming Delegation

Wyoming’s congressional delegation say they’re just fine with Wednesday’s surprise announcement that U.S. Forest Service chief Randy Moore is quitting. Rep. Harriet Hageman said it was welcome news as he mismanaged the agency.

Judge Tells Wyoming Legislators To Buy More Computers And Fund Schools Better

A Laramie County District Court judge ordered Wyoming lawmakers Wednesday to fund schools better to satisfy the state Constitution. The ruling calls for more computers, school resource officers and mental health counselors, among other underfunded needs.  

Out-Of-State Group Texting Residents To Influence Wyoming Legislature

Texas-based American Action Fund has been sending out a large number of text messages and mailers to Wyoming residents. The messages urge people to pressure legislators on bills such as school choice.

Wyoming Child Porn Case Ends With Raid Of Philippines Sex House

What started as a child pornography bust in Lincoln County, Wyoming, ended this month with the rescue of nine children from sex trafficking in the Philippines, authorities say. Local agents got to watch the bust via Zoom as the raid unfolded.

Letter To The Editor: Where Was The Uproar Over "Let's Go Brandon?"

Dear editor: Sens. Barrasso and Lummis are unhappy about iPhones substituting “racist” for “Trump” in voice dictation. But I don’t recall them expressing disapproval of the marketing of “Let’s Go Brandon” signs.

Wyoming Grizzlies Could Start Waking Up Any Day, Will Grizzly 399’s Cub Show?

Wyoming’s grizzlies should start emerging from hibernation any time now, but nobody’s sure if Grizzly 399’s cub, Spirit, will be among them.

Letter To The Editor: Why Are Your News Stories So Violent?

Dear editor: We have so many unusual and good stories from a small town or small state to share, do we need to hear these issues more typical of a big city?

Montana Bill Would Charge Women With 'Abortion Trafficking' For Going Out Of State

A Montana bill would charge women with abortion trafficking for seeking abortions in other states. Opponents flooded a Wednesday hearing claiming overreach, supporters say it's needed to keep minors from being taken for secret abortions.

Tom Lubnau: Hidden Dark Money Political Operatives Are Trying To Control Wyoming

Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "We are seeing slimy mailers from out of state, the same cheesy animation on social media and the editorials demanding the Senate bow to the will of the almighty Freedom Caucus in the House."

Wyoming Closer To Separate Primaries, Run-Offs For Top Offices, Including Gov.

A Senate committee passed a bill Wednesday that would create separate primary and run-off elections for the state’s top elected offices, including governor. A run-off would be triggered if nobody gets more than 50% of the primary vote.

Guest Column: The LGBT Folks Aren’t Trying To Force Their Lifestyle On Anyone

Guest columnist Tex McBride writes, "When you see the books they write in the library, or taking a cautious step into society, it isn’t because they're trying to recruit your child into the gay community. They're doing it in an effort to let your family member know they aren’t alone."

Guest Column: SF 40 Addresses Unconstitutional Housing Mitigation Fees

Guest columnist Rebecca Bextel writes, "The Wyoming legislature needs to stop this practice now by passing SF40 before other counties are lured into financial jeopardy by following Teton County."

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.

FBI, ICE Nab Suspected Mexican Cartel Member Working On Wyoming Reservation

FBI agents arrested Tuesday an illegal immigrant they say has ties to a drug cartel and is suspected of dealing meth around Wyoming’s Wind River Indian Reservation. Two others, including an illegal immigrant from Mexico, were also arrested.  

Man Accused In 1982 Green River Bombing Caught In New Mexico After Standoff

A man accused of sending a bomb to his ex-wife’s new boyfriend’s house in Green River, Wyoming, in 1982, has been caught in New Mexico after more than 40 years, allegedly living under a dead classmate's identity. The blast blew off one of the woman’s fingers and caused other injuries.

Cowboy State Daily’s Wendy Corr Receives Major Western Award For Podcast

Cowboy State Daily News Director and podcast host Wendy Corr has been honored by the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. John Wayne, George Strait, and Reba McEntire are among honorees.

The American West: Was Frank James in Wyoming?

One puzzling historical question remains unanswered: Was Frank James (Jesse James' brother) part of the Big Nose George Parott gang that killed two law enforcement officers near Elk Mountain in Wyoming on August 19, 1878?

Morning Show with Jake — Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Wednesday's headlines include: • No Deal On Property Tax Bill • Aladdin Loses 127-Year-Old Post Office • 110-Year Sentence For Homemade Truck Bomb

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 30

The 30th day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session Tuesday featured a broken deal on a property tax cut bill and heated discussion about new non-citizen state IDs.

Degenfelder Says Blocking Trans Participation In Female Sports Is About Safety

Megan Defenfelder, Wyoming’s top education official, says blocking transgender participation in female sports isn’t about disrespect. It’s about ensuring the safety of female athletes.

Wyoming Delegation Pushes To Halt Federal Money For Sanctuary Cities

A bill introduced in Congress on Tuesday would block federal money going to sanctuary cities. Wyoming’s delegation, along with those from four bordering states, are pushing to pass the bill.

Lummis, Barrasso Not Happy With iPhone Voice To Text That Replaces ‘Racist’ With ‘Trump’

When some iPhone users tried to voice-dictate the word “racist” on Tuesday, the word “Trump” appeared momentarily. U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis said the apparent software issue “sets a dangerous precedent" and Sen. John Barrasso called it "appalling."

Non-Citizen Status Will Be On Back, Not Front, Of Wyoming Licenses And IDs

Wyoming driver’s licenses and IDs will have a person’s non-U.S. citizen status printed on them under a new bill sent to the governor’s desk Tuesday. In a change to the original proposal, it will be in black on the back, not in color on the front.

Wyoming’s McGinley Clinic Gains National Spotlight with Indy NXT Sponsorship

A Wyoming-based medical clinic is making waves on the national and international stage, drawing top-tier professional athletes to Casper and Gillette for world-class orthopedic treatment.

You Can Shoot A Vicious Dog In Wyoming, But Be Prepared To Back It Up

Concealed firearms carriers can legally shoot attacking dogs but should be prepared to back their stories up, self-defense experts say. It can be more complicated in a populated area, even leading to potential endangering charges.

Man Accused Of Firing Shotgun At Fleeing Wife Agrees To 3-5 Years In Prison

A Sheridan man pleaded guilty Thursday to aggravated assault, following claims he fired a shotgun toward his wife as she ran and took cover in a ditch. Prosecutors are seeking a three-to-five year prison sentence.

Legislature Making It Harder For Power Companies To Take Land For Power Lines

A bill landed on Gov. Mark Gordon's desk Tuesday that makes it harder for power companies to use eminent domain in Wyoming to take land to build power lines. Legislators say the goal is to protect property rights while preserving energy production.

Casper Man Charged With Illegal Gambling Says Wyoming's Ban Is Unconstitutional

A man accused of running a professional gambling operation out of three businesses is challenging the law with which he is charged. Scott Schroefel of Casper claims the state’s statute against illegal gambling is vague, confusing and unconstitutional.

Bill Aims To Protect Wyoming Rodeo From Animal Activists

Cody Republican Rachel Rodriguez-Williams says Wyoming’s rodeos need protection from animal rights activists. Her bill to protect rodeo passed out of committee Tuesday, while detractors claim it could open the door to puppy mills and dog fighting.

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.

Rare 144-Year Seven-Planet Parade Lines Up Over Wyoming This Week

Saturn, Mercury, Neptune, Venus, Uranus, Jupiter and Mars will all be visible in the night skies over Wyoming after sunset Friday, an alignment that only happens once every 144 years.

Letter To The Editor: Criminals Don't Pay Attention To Gun-Free Zones

Dear editor: Those who study mass killings, concur with the founder of the Crime Prevention Resource Center, that the vast majority take place in “gun free zones.”

Letter To The Editor: Have We Lost All Moral Conscience For Unalienable Rights?

Dear editor: If children are dehumanized, aborted/killed, and deemed unworthy of life, it raises a profound question about the worthiness of all of us; begs the question – who deems ‘worth’ of life?

Rod Miller: Breakfast With The Old Guard At The Ferris Hotel

Columnist Rod Miller writes, "The Ferris Hotel was once the elegant heart of social life in my hometown. Built by an early Carbon County copper baron and filled with Molesworth furniture, the Ferris featured a cafe that opened long before the sun rose."

Candy Moulton: How A Steel Tycoon And A Wyoming Cowboy Left Library Legacies

Columnist Candy Moulton writes, "The Carnegie name is recognized across the country for the library network Andrew Carnegie funded. But in Campbell County, Wyoming, an old cowboy, George Amos, left his own legacy to the community."

The American West: Termespheres -- A Unique Universe Of Art In South Dakota

Each of Dick Terme’s painted spheres are unbelievably complex, painted by a masterful artist whose imagination and multifaceted techniques are beyond compare.

‘Hugely Disappointing’: House, Senate Can’t Agree On Deal To Cut Property Taxes

Members of the Wyoming Senate and House couldn’t agree over a proposed property tax cut Tuesday that has fluctuated between 25% and 50%. Thinking a deal had been struck at 25%, one state senator says House members backing off is “hugely disappointing.”

Montana Man Gets 110 Years For Crashing Homemade Truck Bomb Into Neighbor’s House

A neighborhood feud turned into a scene from “Mad Max” when a Montana man transformed his truck into a firebomb on wheels and sent it crashing into a neighbor’s house. He was sentenced earlier this month to 110 years in prison for attempted murder.

Morning Show with Jake — Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Tuesday's headlines include: * Protestors Hold Die-In At Capitol * Josh Allen Named To Wyo Hall Of Fame * Hageman On Warpath To Save Rural Post Offices

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 29

The 29th day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session Monday featured a die-in protest on the floor of the Capitol rotunda and passionate debate over property taxes and abortion.

Protesters Stage 'Die-In' On Capitol Floor Over Banning Gun-Free Zones

About 20 protesters made up to resemble shooting victims lay on the floor of the Wyoming Capitol on Monday afternoon over a bill that would ban gun-free zones.

Powell Resident Shoots At Hawk With Fireworks

Though they were called to an active shooter incident, the Powell police quickly learned it was actually a person trying to blast a hawk with a roman candle. Meanwhile, the responding officer accidentally discharged a gun.

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.

Wyoming Hunters Say Proposed 100,000-Acre Land Swap Would Be A Raw Deal

An exchange of roughly 100,000 acres between the federal government and a ranch in southcentral Wyoming would improve recreational access, supporters say. But Cowboy State hunters say the swap would be a raw deal.

New Trigger Bill Would Ban Abortion If Wyoming’s Earlier Ban Rejected In Court

A new trigger bill moving its way through the Wyoming Legislature aims to ban abortion in the event the Wyoming Supreme Court rules against the state’s 2023 law banning it. Abortion remains legal in the state as the ban is challenged in court.

Northern Wyoming Swings 85 Degrees — From Minus 27 To 58 — In Four Days

Parts of northern Wyoming that broke records for cold on Thursday hit 58 on Sunday. That’s a huge 85-degree swing in just four days.

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.

Worland Man Charged With Shooting Own Dog Six Times, Hoping He'd 'Bleed Out'

Axel, a border-collie mix, is recovering after being shot six times by his owner. Donald W. Wright, 59, of Worland, Wyoming, was in court Monday, charged with cruelty to animals and saying he hoped the dog would "bleed out."

Bill To Regulate Fishing Guides In Wyoming Clears State Senate

Fishing guides on both sides of the Wyoming-Colorado state line voiced support for a bill that could prevent the mobbing of Wyoming’s prized trout waters. The bill to regulate fishing guides cleared the Senate on Monday.

Gov. Gets Bill To Free Homeschool Parents From Submitting Plans To School Districts

A bill that would lift a requirement that homeschool parents submit curricula to local school districts easily passed the Wyoming Senate 28-2 on Monday. The bill moves on to Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk.

Letter To The Editor: Rep. Styvar Is Not Attending Committee Meetings

Dear editor:  I ran in the GOP primary against Rep. Styvar to represent House District 12. It’s easy to say that, had I won, I would have committed to the job and showed up when I was supposed to, because Rep. Styvar’s behavior is unprecedented...

Josh Allen To Be Inducted Into Wyoming Cowboys Hall Of Fame

Buffalo Bills star quarterback Josh Allen, fresh off being named the MVP of the NFL earlier this month, has another accolade upcoming: The University of Wyoming Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame announced him as part of the Class of 2025.

Senate Committee Rejects Proposal To Make UW Trustees Elected, Not Appointed

The Senate Education Committee rejected a proposal Monday that would have required University of Wyoming trustees be elected instead of appointed. Those recommending “do not pass” say they think it would be unconstitutional.

The American West: Solomon Butcher – Nebraska’s Prairie Photographer

Solomon Butcher didn’t want to be a homesteader, but he clearly admired those with the grit and gumption to build a home of sod and a life on the land so he made a career traveling the prairie and making photographs.

Letter To The Editor: 'Gun Free Zones' Are Foolishly Naive

Dear editor: Have you ever heard of a case, even in “The Lancet” where a person who woke up in the morning prepared and intending to go to a school to use his gun to kill people, has been deterred upon getting there and seeing a sign that says, “Gun Free Zone"?

Letter To The Editor: Has Donald Trump Become King?

Dear editor: Trump has usurped both the law-making and appropriations powers of Congress like kings do. Trump has installed the legal basis of monarchy (“The King can do no wrong”) by obtaining immunity from criminal prosecution.

Thermopolis Woman Accused Of Taking At Least $15,000 From FFA Alumni Pleads Guilty

A Thermopolis woman accused of stealing at least $15,000 from a Future Farmers of America (FFA) alumni group pleaded guilty last week to felony charges. The special prosecutor on the case is now asking for no more than 30 months in prison.

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.

Dave Simpson: My Wife Is Working Me Like A Pack Mule

Columnist Dave Simpson writes, “Back then, the burden fell on my wife, who had to pick up 'all the things I do around here.' That was then. This is now.”

Douglas Man Gets 48-62 Years For Killing Green Beret Cousin

Mark Helms has been sentenced to 48-62 years in prison for killing his cousin Nicholas Velazquez, a special forces Green Beret. The pair had been drinking overnight at Helms' home in 2023.  

Morning Show with Jake — Monday, February 24, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Monday, February 24, 2025

Monday's headlines include: * Tunnel Crash Survivor Update * Whiskey: Great Medicine In Old West * Pivotal Lawsuit Could Destroy Small Ski Areas

Meet Mia The Walmart Dog — Casper’s Tutu-Wearing Celebrity K-9

When Casper Walmart greeter Billy Welch started bringing his service support dog Mia to work with him, he didn’t expect the pit bull-mastiff mix would become a local celebrity. Now the tutu-wearing K-9 has her own social media with thousands of followers.

Montana Man Recovers Lost Stories Of Chinese Who Helped Build The American West

Chinese immigrants flocked to the American West in the 1800s to help build railroads and amid a mining boom. Many of their experiences have largely been forgotten by history, but a Montana man is helping recover their stories.

Meet Jerry Kintzler: 55 Years Of Designing Flower Arrangements — And Saving Lives

Jerry Kintzler has been designing flower arrangements for 55 years in Riverton and has even saved lives with his flower knowledge. At least twice, he warned people that premature dead flowers were a sign they had gas leaks in their homes.

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.

New Sculpture Of 399 And 4 Cubs Planned To Memorialize World’s Most Famous Bear

Wyoming’s Grizzly 399 was the world’s most famous bear and is about to be memorialized in larger-than-life bronze. A huge sculpture of the bear with her famous brood of four cubs is planned to be up in the Jackson area by spring 2026.

Letter To The Editor: Wyoming Senate Does Not Care For Campbell County High School

Dear editor: How long must this nonsense go on? How long do parents, teachers and students have to scream we need help! Folks I'm here screaming Fire!

Letter To The Editor: For The Last 100 Years, Scientists Have Been Recording Weather, Not Climate

Dear editor: As a retired geologist, I would like to respond to Terry Hansen's letter. I have no argument with Terry Hansen's statement that the Earth is undergoing "global warming." In fact the Earth has been warming for the last 12,000 years...

Guest Column: We Have A Plan and We’re Sticking To It.

Rep. John Bear writes, "The Wyoming Freedom Caucus came to the 2025 session with a plan. We have executed that plan. Now we are waiting on our colleagues in the Senate to do the good work of the people and pass these common sense measures."

Mandy Fabel: The Cost and Cure to Contempt

Columnist Mandy Fabel writes, "Are we even capable of open dialogue and relationships that span opinions beyond our own? I have seen the answer first-hand in my job of running Leadership Wyoming. And that answer is yes."

The American West: The Wild Bunch Moves On - The 1896 Montpelier Bank Robbery

When notorious outlaw Matt Warner was arrested and put on trial for murder in Utah in 1896, he lacked the means to pay for legal assistance. So, his friend Butch Cassidy put a team together and robbed a bank to help him out.

Cassie Craven: Sure, I'll Be Your Villain

Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “My opponents lately are convinced that my work and my voice are about money or some ulterior motive. Let’s be clear, I came from nothing and I will leave with nothing. Money is meaningless to me. But you must always be truthful, no matter the cost. "

‘Nuclear Verdicts’ Against Big Ski Resorts Could Price Mom-And-Pop Areas Out Of Business

A widow suing the world-famous Sun Valley Resort in Idaho over the death of her husband could end with a “nuclear verdict” that could spike insurance rates across the industry. That could price mom-and-pop areas like those in Wyoming out of business.

1904 Casper Police Docket Full Of Prostitutes, Drunks And Horses On Sidewalks

In January, someone donated a Casper police docket book from 1904 to a local thrift store. It gives a fascinating glimpse into the most prevalent crimes of the day: prostitutes, drunks and people fined for riding horses on sidewalks.

Rod Miller: The Thrill of Victory, The Agony of Defeat

Columnist Rod Miller writes: "Participation trophies be damned. The rubble of history is full of second place winners. Humanity didn’t survive and advance by celebrating the runner-up. Survival of the fittest is the ultimate meritocracy. We ignore it at our mortal peril."

Huge 153,000-Pound Tanker Becomes Biggest Addition To Wyoming Flight Museum

Tanker 97, a Boeing KC-97 Stratofreighter, a new addition to the Museum of Flight and Aerial Firefighting in Greybull, has immediately become the crown jewel of the museum's collection. The aircraft has a 141-foot wingspan and weighs 153,000 pounds.

Strange On The Range: Wyoming Comic Artists Create Eclectic Compilation Of Wild & Weird

Strange on the Range is a new underground publication that features an eclectic mix of Wyoming comic artists. The hard-copy magazine is dedicated to the work of Wyoming comic illustrators.

‘Turkish Revolution’ Hits American Firearms Scene With Cheap, Plentiful Imports

Turkish firearms were once considered a joke in the United States. Now they’re becoming wildly popular with American shooters, frequently selling for a fraction of the price of domestic brands.

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.

Wyoming Veterans Hopeful Hegseth Will Make U.S. Military Great Again

Wyoming veterans told Cowboy State Daily that years of social programs and diversity initiatives have weakened the military and they hope that’s over. They want to see the return of high standards, greater access to mental healthcare and more help transitioning veterans post-service.

He Lost A Leg In Combat, Now Wyoming Vet Teaches Others To Adapt And Overcome

Karl Milner lost a leg in combat, but the Gillette veteran used his military training to adapt and overcome to map out a new mission in life. Now he treats others facing mental and physical challenges to ski. He's a better teacher, he says, because "he's been there."

Wyoming Only State Not Sending A Pinball Wizard To North American Championships

A budding pinball scene fizzled out a few years ago in Cheyenne, which means Wyoming will be the only state without someone competing at the North American Championships. But a Cinderella pinball wizard from Montana is going full-tilt to earn a title.

Wyoming History: The Wyoming Man Who Designed B-52 Jet Engine That Transformed Aviation

Leonard Hobbs was born in small Carbon, Wyoming, in 1895 and grew up to help transform aviation, designing one of the most important jet engines in history. It was the workhorse of America's B-52 jet bombers.

Letter To The Editor: CDLs And Interstate 80, The Highway Of Death

Dear editor: I believe that number of non-domiciled commercial driver's license holders to be very high. In any truck stop in Wyoming you will several different languages, mostly eastern European or Middle eastern.

Letter To The Editor: Global Warming Will Likely Destroy The World

Dear editor: In her CPAC speech, Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) mocked climate action and spoke of our "ever changing and healthy climate." However, in its report, “Catastrophe Modelling and Climate Change,” Lloyd’s of London....

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.

Award-Winning Wyoming Author Debuts First Crime Thriller That Took 10 Years To Write

Maria Kelson was already an award-winning Wyoming poet when she decided to tackle something totally different — a crime thriller. The result is “Not The Killing Kind,” a gripping whodunit that took 10 years to write.

Environmentalists Known As “Tree-Hugging Hunters” Want More Yellowstone Bison Hunted

A group of environmentalists who describe themselves as “tree-huggers who hunt," are uniting around a message that might surprise some: They say it’s time to hunt and kill more bison outside Yellowstone National Park. 

Little Dipper Allowed Scientists To Float On Scalding Grand Prismatic Spring

Between 1992 and 1996, the Little Dipper was the first and only watercraft in Yellowstone National Park that could safely study Grand Prismatic Spring from the surface of its scalding water. The boat disappeared sometime after 1997, and its fate remains uncertain.

To Boost Bee Immune Systems, Researchers Strap In Honeybees For Live Test Flights

Viruses spread through honeybee hives like the flu virus in a crowded waiting room. Looking to boost bee immune systems, researchers are examining the impact of viruses on honeybee flight performance and testing supplements.

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.

Bill Sniffin: With 18,000 Vehicles A Day, Horrible Crashes Will Occur On Interstate 80

Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “It is inevitable that horrible accidents will happen in the winter with 18,000 vehicles fighting snow, ice, and wind conditions on Interstate 80.”

Joan Barron: The Silence of the Sponsors

Columnist Joan Barron writes, "“This was not the finest hour for the Wyoming House of Representatives.”

The American West: The McCarty Brothers - Criminals Who Made Butch Cassidy Famous 

As the bank robbers raced out of Telluride in 1889, Butch Cassidy entered the history books for his first hold-up that would lead to the formation of the Wild Bunch. Butch Cassidy is the best known of Wild Bunch outlaws, but behind his prominence were the McCarty Brothers. 

Glendo Native Creates Life-Size Moose From Junk Parts For Breast Cancer Fundraiser

A welder from Glendo sees the potential in other people’s junk to create unique sculptures, like a life-size moose standing in Casper called "Holy Smokes." He created this sculpture for a fundraiser to benefit a Glendo-based breast cancer foundation.

VIDEO: Wyoming's Billboard Sheriff: A Day In The Life Of Brian Kozak 

Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak has captured national attention with his viral billboard and bold "vacancy" sign on his jail, while also earning a reputation locally for his unconventional approach. Cowboy State Daily spent a day with the sheriff to get a firsthand look at his unique style.

Hageman Receives Hero's Welcome At Conservative Political Action Conference

Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman received a standing ovation Saturday speaking at the annual Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington, D.C. The crowd roared when she mentioned Liz Cheney was nowhere to be found in Wyoming.

Colorado Senate Passes Sweeping Ban On Semiautomatic Firearms

Colorado lawmakers are one step closer to passing a sweeping gun ban on semiautomatic rifles, shotguns and pistols. A Wyoming gun rights advocate called it one of the nation’s most restrictive gun laws.

Green River Tunnel Survivor Still In Hospital, Family Grateful For Support

The 20-year-old woman who was severely hurt in the Feb. 14 tunnel collision outside of Green River, Wyoming, remains hospitalized. She’s in the care of "incredible medical teams," her family says.

How A Former Law Enforcement Officer Became A Top Psychic Investigator

Jeff Ginter always knew he was a weird kid, but he learned to embrace his psychic powers throughout a career in law enforcement. Now he’s a top psychic, working to solve cold cases in Wyoming and around the world.

Chancey Williams’ Ode To His Wyoming Cowboy Uncle Hits No. 1 On CMT Music

Inspired by his uncle Don Williams and the joy of bronc riding, Chancey Williams’ new hit song “The Ballad of Uncle Don” has hit No. 1 on the CMT Music charts. Chancey said the song came about over cup of coffee with his uncle in Moorcroft, Wyoming.

Jackson Hole Girls Basketball Snaps 79-Game Losing Streak With Last Second 3-Pointer

In a home game against Riverton, four seniors for Jackson Hole High School had never won a high school basketball game until a sophomore sharpshooter sunk a clutch 3-pointer Thursday. The 35-32 win snapped the Broncs’ 79-game losing streak.

Wyoming House Members Getting Antsy As Senate Holds Onto State Budget

The Wyoming House is starting to get a little antsy over how long the state Senate is holding onto the supplemental budget without taking any action on it. The Senate has had the $680 million plan for two weeks.

Wyoming Family’s Winchester Rifle Has Been Dropping Deer For A Century

A Winchester Model 1894 rifle has been in Cheyenne resident Bob Budd’s family for a century. He says it still shoots straight and symbolizes a connection with the past as his grandfather and father killed their first deer with it, as did Budd and his two sons.

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 28

The 28th day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session Friday saw significant discussions about bills banning DEI programs and restricting abortion. The House also is getting impatient for the Senate to address the supplemental budget.

Bill Proposes Massive Overhaul To Base Property Taxes On Home Price, Not Valuation

While the most attention has been on a proposed 50% property tax cut moving through the Wyoming Legislature, another bill proposes a much larger overhaul of the system. It would base property taxes on a home’s purchase price, similar to auto registrations.

Repeal Of Gun-Free Zones Is Close To Gov. Gordon’s Desk — Will He Veto It Again?

For the second year in a row, the Wyoming Legislature is close to giving Gov. Mark Gordon a bill to eliminate gun-free zones in the state. Gordon vetoed it last year, but isn’t saying if he’ll sign, veto or let it pass without a signature this year.

The Roundup: A Conversation With Gene Bryan

This week, host Wendy Corr catches up with former Wyoming Tourism director Gene Bryan. Gene talks about his years with Cheyenne Frontier Days, about starting up the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, and about the people and places that make Wyoming great!

Sheridan Man Agrees To 4-6 Years For Punching Hockey Coach To Death

A Sheridan man pleaded no-contest Wednesday to fatally punching a local hockey coach in the head after a dispute about a parking space last summer. He's agreed to a prison sentence of four to six years.

Letter To The Editor: In Defense Of SF40 - Zoning Protests And Unconstitutional Housing Mitigation Fees

Dear editor: The Wyoming Constitution states that “private property shall not be taken or damaged for public or private use without just compensation”. If we don’t stop this, it will spread to other counties.

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.

Dennis Sun: Beef is Still King

Columnist Dennis Sun writes, "Despite the rising price of beef, consumers have not backed away from purchasing it. I believe the main reason for this is because of the high quality of beef products on grocery store shelves."

Jonathan Lange: Last Week Brought Tragedy; Don't Stop Praying Now

Columnist Jonathan Lange writes, "Wyoming has had her share of tragedies in recent weeks. But none tore our hearts like the loss of life in Byron. As events unfolded, the narrative changed from reports of mass violence, then murder-suicide, and finally to prayer."

Wyoming Man Who “Wanted To Feel It” When He Killed Woman Gets 40 Years

An Ethete, Wyoming, man who told police he “wanted to feel it” when he brutally beat and stabbed a woman to death last year was sentenced to 40 years in prison Friday.

UW Volleyball Players Want Judge Off Case For Making Them Call Trans Player ‘She’

Three University of Wyoming volleyball players are among those who sued over a transgender player being allowed on a rival team. They’re now asking a Colorado judge to recuse himself from their case for making them refer to the trans player as “she.”

Getting DEI Out Of Wyoming, UW “A Long Time In Coming,” Says Sponsor Of Ban

A bill to ban DEI programs and policies from Wyoming agencies — with exceptions for nonprofits that get public money — easily passed a House committee Friday. The bill’s sponsor says getting DEI out of Wyoming and UW has “been a long time in coming.”

Barrasso Helps Pass Budget As Part Of War On “Wasteful Washington Spending”

Sen. John Barrasso helped the U.S. Senate pass a 10-year budget resolution 52-48 Friday after an all-night debate. He said he agrees with reining in wasteful spending, but is making sure the administration "understands how important it is to keep national parks, forests and federal lands adequately staffed."

Wyoming Closer To Requiring ID To Verify Age To Access Porn Sites

The pornography industry did not show up to challenge a Wyoming bill that would require porn websites to verify ages with IDs before allowing access. After unanimously passing out of committee Thursday, the bill will be debated by the full Senate. 

The American West: Murder And Mayhem In Old Deadwood

After the killing of Wild Bill Hickok on August 2, 1876, another feud in Deadwood broke out. This time it was between Laughing Sam and Harry Young. Speculation is that it was over a woman. Unfortunately, the feud led to the death of Bummer Dan in a case of mistaken identity.

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.

Morning Show with Jake — Friday, February 21, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Friday, February 21, 2025

Friday's headlines include: * Casper Man Bids $47 Billion For TikTok * Senate Rejects House Version Of Prop Tax Bill * Winter Doesn’t Stop Stupid Tourists In Yellowstone

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 27

On the 27th day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session, the Senate rejected the changes made to a major property tax cut bill. Also, a woman taunted a male legislator by calling him “madame” while testifying about the “What is a Woman Act.”

Senate Rejects House Changes To Huge 50% Property Tax Cut

After the Wyoming House spent more than five hours debating 21 amendments before passing a huge 50% property tax bill Wednesday, the Senate took minutes to reject it Thursday. Now the two chambers will have to negotiate.

The American West: Butch Cassidy’s Banker, Eugene Amoretti Sr.

Eugene Amoretti Sr. was the founder of Lander, Wyoming, and known friend of both outlaw Butch Cassidy and Fremont County Sheriff Charles Stough, who pursued the outlaws. Amoretti came to America to seek his fortune and died a millionaire.

'Clean Kill' For Predators Bill Advances — Without Wolf-Whacking Ban

A controversial “clean kill” for predators bill advanced Thursday. That it doesn’t include a ban running over wolves with snowmobiles — aka wolf whacking — remains a sticking point for many.

Coyote Hunting Contest Prompts Wyomingites To Weigh Pros, Cons Of Events

Supporters of coyote hunting contests say that they’re helping big game herds. Opponents claim the events accomplish nothing and make Wyoming look bad.

Guest Column: Teton County’s Workforce Housing Regulations Are Unconstitutional

Guest columnist Austin Waisanen writes, "'Workforce housing' fees — a bad idea that drives up the cost of housing and unconstitutionally places the burden of other people’s housing on individual property owners — may soon run their course in Wyoming."

Man Who Strangled Drunk Man At Casper Motel Gets 62 Years To Life

A 44-year-old Casper man faces a 62-to-life prison sentence for strangling a 28-year-old man in a Casper motel room last March. James Mavigliano was convicted of second-degree murder in December following a jury trial.

Two Dead In Latest Green River Crash ID'd; Semi Truck Went Straight On Curve

A fatal crash outside Green River that killed two people Wednesday happened when a semitruck failed to navigate a curve and collided with a Honda Odyssey, the Wyoming Highway Patrol reports.  

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.

Casper Teen Charged In Fatal Shooting Had History Of Pointing Gun At People

An 18-year-old Casper man was bound over to Natrona County District Court Thursday on an involuntary manslaughter charge. Evidence at a preliminary hearing showed he had a history of pointing his .40-caliber Glock at others.

Doesn’t Matter The Season, Tourists Still Get Way Too Close To Bison

It really doesn't matter the season, tourists continue to get way too close to wildlife in Yellowstone. Like Thursday morning, when Daryl Adams in Louisiana pulled up the Old Faithful webcam and witnessed dimwitted tourists just feet away from bison.

Woman Calls Male Legislator 'Madame' During 'What Is A Woman Act' Debate

Debate grew tense Thursday when a woman insisted on calling a male legislator "Madame" at the beginning of her testimony against the "What is a Woman Act." The Wyoming Senate will debate the bill next.

Man Calls In 6 Bomb Threats To Evanston Horse Palace

A man forced the Evanston Horse Palace to close Wednesday night when he called six times in a row to say he planted a bomb inside. After a sweep with a bomb-sniffing dog, the threats are believed to be a hoax that could’ve come from anywhere.

Wyoming Girl Who Fought Off Attacker Forgives Him As He Gets 36-40 Years

A man who attacked and tried to kidnap a Wyoming girl outside a Riverton movie theater was sentenced Thursday to 36-40 years in prison. His victim told Cowboy State Daily that as she fought him off, she was determined to not be another memorial on Facebook.

Letter To The Editor: Sheriff Kozak Is Just Fearmongering

Dear editor: "Without knowing all of the facts and not knowing if any backfill money may occur for any of our 23 counties, Sheriff Kozak immediately said he will lose $2 million dollars in budget cuts, lay off 25 employees, and several programs will have to be eliminated."

Wyoming Legislator Pushes Back On Claim Shooting Prairie Dogs Is “Psychopathic”

A retired professor told a Wyoming legislative committee Thursday that shooting prairie dogs is “psychopathic.” That raised the hackles of the sponsor of a bill to allow shooting the critters from vehicles. It’s about pest management, he says.

Rod Miller: If SF69 Was A Roundup – A Campfire Allegory About Property Tax Reform

The stranger wore town clothes, and sat his horse uneasily. “I’m just deliverin’ the message,” he said, “put half back where ya found ‘em or somethin’ bad’s gonna happen. Cops will get fired, an’ towns will go thirsty. Bad stuff like that.” 

Wyoming Republicans Divided On How To Best Achieve Property Tax Relief

How to best achieve property tax relief has been the driving issue of the 2025 legislative session so far, and is dividing Wyoming Republicans. The main sticking points are whether to backfill deficits created by the cuts, and if so, how much.

Sally Ann Shurmur: Random Thoughts As Random As This $&@?! Weather

Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “I could write about the Legislature, but it seems like everyone else is. I could write about Wyoming’s roads, but tragically, that’s been done plenty.”

Cassie Craven:  DOGE Dividends and Property Taxes Have a Lot in Common

Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “A Cheyenne representative pointed out that Laramie County collected $32 million in property taxes and put every penny in reserves. In short, the government gets to save for a rainy day while you can’t afford to pay your debt or save for your own rainy day."

Letter To The Editor: House Bill 64 Is Thinly Veiled Attempt To Ban Abortion In Wyoming

Dear editor: Pro-Choice Wyoming opposes House Bill 64, which would mandate a transvaginal ultrasound and a 48-hour waiting period before a woman can obtain medication for an abortion. This bill is a thinly veiled attempt to ban abortion in Wyoming.

Letter To The Editor: Wyoming Is Failing Moms. Let's Do Better On Maternal Mental Health 

Dear editor: Our hearts are heavy in the wake of the recent tragedy in Byron, but we can't simply grieve and move on. We must dedicate our time and resources to prevention.

Letter To The Editor: Gov Needs To Sign Wyoming Freedom Scholarship Act

Dear editor: I call on Governor Mark Gordon to sign HB 199, the Wyoming Freedom Scholarship Act, and unleash educational liberty.

Green River Tunnel Open To 2-Way Traffic Again After Devastating Crash

The Wyoming Department of Transportation has opened two-way traffic through the Green River Tunnel on Thursday for the first time since a devastating 26-vehicle crash last Friday. Traffic is moving through the eastbound lanes at reduced speeds.

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.

Morning Show with Jake — Thursday, February 20, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Two Dead In Crash Outside Of Green River; Not Part Of Tunnel Detour

Two people died and one person was injured in a two-vehicle crash Wednesday evening outside Green River, at a junction that isn’t part of a congested detour through the town, the Wyoming Highway Patrol says.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Thursday, February 20, 2025

Thursday's headlines include: * House Passes Massive Property Tax Bill * Coyote Hunt Organizer Getting Death Threats * Company Considering Wyoming Uranium Fuel Plant

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 26

The 26th day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session Wednesday featured more than five hours of discussion on a 50% property tax cut bill, which the House passed.

After Marathon Debate, Wyoming House Passes Massive 50% Property Tax Cut

After a marathon debate that lasted into the night, the Wyoming House passed a massive 50% property tax cut. It’s a win for the Freedom Caucus but critics say it would drive Wyoming off a fiscal cliff.

Sheridan Kids Taken By Mom Still Not Home, But Believed Safe, Police Report

After a dayslong search for a pair of young children from Sheridan who were taken Sunday by their mother, local police Wednesday night called off an alert asking people to be on the lookout for them.

Letter To The Editor: Gold Should Be Better Appreciated By Cowboy State Daily

Dear editor: I take umbrage at the way your article was written to dismiss the usefulness of gold in the marketplace and which, maybe inadvertently, casted aspersions on my business partner and employer Josh Phair.

Letter To The Editor: Grab Your Skirts and Lipstick, Ladies

Dear editor: thanks to Wyoming Representative Jayme Lien and her absurd “What Is a Woman Act” (HB0032), simply existing in public as a woman might require you to pass a gender inspection.

Letter To The Editor: Casper Kids Should Be Celebrated For Engineering Success

Dear editor: Students from CY Junior High School in Casper worked tirelessly, won first place at regionals, and earned their way to Washington, D.C., to go head-to-head with some of the brightest young minds in the country.

Senate To Hear Bill Banning Sexually Explicit Shows From Getting Public Money

The Wyoming Senate got a bill Wednesday that would ban public money going to support sexually explicit events and entertainment. The bill would also keep government buildings from hosting those events in their spaces.

Snowmobilers About To Pay More To Ride Wyoming’s Premier Trials

A bill that hikes annual registration fees for snowmobilers to ride Wyoming’s premier trails has passed both the state House and Senate. Proponents say it’s needed to keep up with the growing costs of keeping those trails among the nation’s best.

Coyote Hunt Organizer Says She's Getting Death Threats Over Upcoming Event

An organizer of a coyote predator hunting contest in Sublette County says she’s getting death threats because people are perceiving it to be a “celebration” of the torture and killing of a wolf there last year.

Homeschool Parents Closer To Not Having To Submit Plans To Local Districts

A bill that would mean Wyoming homeschool parents won’t have to submit their curricula to local school boards is sailing through the Legislature. Having already passed the house, the Wyoming Homeschool Freedom Act moved to the full Senate on Wednesday.

House Committee Kills Bill To Store Radioactive Waste In Wyoming

A House committee rejected a proposal Wednesday to build small nuclear power plants. Assurances that the legislation would not bring radioactive “green slime” to Wyoming weren’t enough to convince committee members.

The American West: Vernal, Utah’s Parcel Post Bank

The Bank of Vernal, built in 1916, looks like any bank, but it's pretty unique. Freight rates for shipping there were prohibitive, so an alternative was devised. The bank is built from bricks shipped to the community via parcel post through the United States Post Office.

Tom Lubnau: If Lawmakers Aren't Being Puppeted By DC, Let Them Show It

Columnist Tom Lubnau writes: "I am calling on all the members of the House to release any written, email or text message documents which indicate Wyoming Freedom Caucus positions on bills. Demonstrate to the public they are doing nothing wrong."

Wyoming Anti-Squatter Bills Close To Becoming Law

A bill that would help law enforcement remove squatters passed the Wyoming House on Wednesday. If the Senate approves late changes to it, it will head to the governor's desk. Another bill targeting fake landlords is pending in the House.  

Sheridan, Gillette, Newcastle Set Record Lows; 80+ Inches Of Snow In Southern Wyoming

Fans of winter, rejoice! Sheridan, Gillette, and Newcastle all set record low temperatures on Wednesday morning. Meanwhile, more than 80 inches of snow has fallen in the Snowies and Sierra Madres. Meteorologist Don Day says there's plenty more to come too.

Casper Man Accused Of Invading Home, Pulling Knife And Threatening To Shoot Up House

A 27-year-old Casper man is accused of a 2 a.m. home invasion Tuesday in which he hit a man and threatened him with a knife. He also allegedly threatened to shoot up the house.

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.

Change To Ballot Drop Box Ban Would Allow Drop Slots At Wyoming Courthouses

A significant change was made to a bill that would ban ballot drop boxes in Wyoming. It would allow for ballots to be deposited into courthouses from the outside, not unlike a safety deposit box or night depository at a bank.

Wyoming Cops Release Dramatic Video Showing Shooting Of Man With Baseball Bat

A compilation of body, dash camera and home video released Tuesday shows what led two law enforcement officers to shoot and kill a Thermopolis man threatening them with a baseball bat. The man’s distraught father asks, “Why’d you have to shoot somebody?”

Sheridan Police Ask For Help Finding 2 Young Kids Taken By Mom

Police in Sheridan, Wyoming, are asking the public’s help in locating a 4-year-old girl and her 3-year-old brother reported missing Sunday. They’re believed to have been taken by their mom.

Man Who Bleached Romantic Rival To Stay In Prison Under “Deadly Weapon” Law

Liquid bleach can be a deadly weapon, the Wyoming Supreme Court ruled Tuesday. The decision comes after a man who splashed bleach in his romantic rival’s face challenged his felony conviction. 

Morning Show with Jake — Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Wednesday's headlines include: * Tunnel Fatalities Identified * Father of Byron Victims Speaks Out * Trooper Responds To Accident Of Own Family

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 25

The 2025 Wyoming legislative session reached the 25-day mark Tuesday, advancing a bill that bans gun-free zones while a House member chastised his colleagues for not debating bills enough and taking “marching orders” from the Freedom Caucus.

Landon Brown Blasts House Members For Taking “Marching Orders” From Freedom Caucus

State Rep. Landon Brown’s frustration boiled over Tuesday as he blasted some of his fellow state House members for not debating bills enough. He also chided them for taking “marching orders” on how to vote from Wyoming Freedom Caucus leadership.

First 15 Bills Of 2025 Session Hit Governor’s Desk, 260 Other Bills Still Alive

The final stretch of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session is approaching with the first 15 bills hitting Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk for approval. There are still 260 bills remaining to be decided.

Repeal of Wyoming’s Gun-Free Zones Clear Major Hurdle, Headed To Senate

A bill to repeal Wyoming’s gun-free zone was unanimously approved by a Wyoming Senate committee on Tuesday, and will head to the Senate Floor. Testimony included input from “More Guns, Less Crime” author John Lott.

The American West: Tracking Early Humans in Montana

The Anzick site excavation and aftermath should be a model of the cooperation that can exist between the scientific world and American Indians who want to preserve the reverence, respect, and solemnity for their ancient ancestors' remains.

Two Rawlins Men, One From Canada ID'd As Green River Tunnel Crash Fatalities

Authorities Tuesday released the names of the three men who died Friday in a devastating Green River, Wyoming, tunnel collision. They are Christopher Johnson, 20 of Rawlins; Quentin Romero, 22 of Rawlins; and Harmanjeet Singh, 30 of Nova Scotia, Canada.

Letter To The Editor: Linda Burt's Letter Is Riddled With Errors

Dear editor: Linda Burt’s letter to the editor criticizing my opinion piece with state Senator Cheri Steinmetz is riddled with errors.

Mike Gierau Is A True Wyoming Political Underdog — A Democrat From Jackson

State Sen. Mike Gierau is a good example of a political underdog in the Wyoming Legislature. He’s one of only two Democrats in the Senate — and he’s also from Jackson.

Mother Of Alleged Sheridan Cop Killer Charged With Giving Guns To Felon

The 71-year-old mother of the man suspected of shooting and killing a Sheridan police sergeant last February has been federally charged with giving guns to a felon. The indictment doesn’t say whether that felon was her son. 

Candy Moulton: Standing Strong in the 307

Columnist Candy Moulton writes: “I have covered many accidents and life-threatening situations. At every scene I’ve seen the professionals like EMTs, law enforcement, volunteers, and regular people doing extraordinary things."

Guest Column: Another Municipal View on Property Tax Relief

Star Valley Ranch Mayor Ruzena Rok writes, "In Lincoln County, locally assessed residential valuations have increased 122% over the past 5 years. For many families who want to stay and raise their children in Lincoln County they simply can no longer afford to do so."

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.

Byron Man Discusses Wife's Last Days Before Murder-Suicide

Twelve hours after his wife shot her four children and herself, Cliff Harshman sat in a hospital waiting room. “I sat and wept. And I cried to God: ‘Please forgive her. Help me forgive her,’” he told Cowboy State Daily. “I lost my best friend. My kids. Everything.”

Full Senate To Debate Bill Banning Illegal Immigrants From Driving In Wyoming

A bill to ban illegal immigrants from driving in Wyoming easily passed a Senate committee Tuesday. But not before hearing some heated testimony from those who oppose it. Next stop for the bill is the full Senate for debate.

Family Of Murdered Casper Man Says Wyoming Needs Missing Person Law

The family of a Casper man who went missing before finally being found murdered says Wyoming needs better protocols to handle cases like his. That’s why they support a new law to do that moving through the Legislature.

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.

Wyoming Trooper Faces Worst Nightmare — Responding To His Own Family’s Crash

A Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper faced his worst nightmare last week — responding to a crash involving his own family. A witness tells Cowboy State Daily about the urgent rescue of the trooper’s 2-year-old son, who remains in serious condition.

Wildfires Help Push 40,000 Head Drop To Wyoming’s 2024 Cattle Production

Despite a 3% decrease in cattle production in 2024, Wyoming ranchers expect 2025 will bring back a strong cattle market. The Wyoming Stock Growers Association says part of the reason for the 40,000-head decrease was the severe wildfire season.

Morning Show with Jake — Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Conversation With WYDOT Director Darin Westby

Jake Nichols had WYDOT Director Darin Westby on his program to discuss the latest on the Green River tunnel crash.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Tuesday's headlines include: * Hero Saved Motorists In Tunnel * 2 Dead After ATV Breaks Ice In Glendo * Why Are Turkeys Circling One Gravestone?

Wyoming Not Immune From Trump and Musk’s Downsizing Of Federal Government

Federal agencies in Wyoming like the U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service aren’t immune from the sweeping downsizing President Donald Trump and Elon Musk are doing from Washington, D.C. Some probationary and seasonal workers have been cut.

Eastern Black Bears Are Blimps, Dwarfing Wyoming Grizzlies

In Wyoming, a black bear over 400 pounds is considered a rare trophy. But back East, it would be puny. Bears there gorge on fresh crops and sometimes top 800 pounds.

Wyoming And Montana Legislators Seek To Ban Lab-Grown Meat

Allusions to “Frankenstein” and “The Matrix” punctuate discussion of bills designed to protect “food traditions” and ban the sale of meat created in a laboratory. Wyoming and Montana are among states trying to ban it.

Recalling United Flight 409 Which Crashed Into Medicine Bow Peak in 1955

With today's news of airplane wrecks dominating the news for the past couple of weeks, I’ve been experiencing flashbacks to 70 years ago when I helped report on the worst airline disaster at that time.

Colorado “Mystery Wolf” Might Be From Wyoming

Fifteen wolves from Canada, have been spreading out across northwest Colorado after being released last month. There’s also reportedly another mystery wolf running around, although nobody is sure where it came from. It might be from Wyoming.

Single Mom Caught In Green River Tunnel Says Hero Led Survivors From Fiery Crash

A local single mom who was caught in an explosive 26-vehicle crash Friday in the Green River Tunnel says a hero named Ray led her and others out of the tunnel. She dragged her arm along the wall to escape in the thick, black smoke.

Dave Simpson: Don't Fall For The Same Old 'Sky Is Falling' Routine

Columnist Dave Simpson writes, "What are the chances our sheriff will have to lay off 25 employees if Senate File 69 passes? Laramie County has $92 million in reserves. If our county is dumb enough to gut law enforcement when it has $92 million in reserves, voters will oust every incumbent..."

Final Death Toll In Green River Tunnel Crash At 3, Cause Under Investigation

Investigators said Monday that the final death toll in the 26-vehicle collision inside the Green River Tunnel on Interstate 80 is three dead. The cause and circumstances remain under investigation.

Cheyenne Couple Loses Insurance After Truck Crashes Into Their House

A pickup truck crashed into a Cheyenne couple’s home last fall, causing at least $30,000 damage. Now State Farm Insurance is dropping their home coverage, and no other company will insure them.

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.

Two Die After Side-By-Side Breaks Through Ice On Glendo Reservoir

Two men died on Saturday after their UTV broke through the icy waters in Glendo Reservoir. A brother of one of the victims told Cowboy State Daily that the first responders were heroes. “Thank you for your service in the bitter cold," he said.

Green River Flooded With Semis With Tunnel Closed After Devastating Crash

The small city of Green River, Wyoming, lies next to Interstate 80, one of the busiest commercial truck routes in the U.S. After Friday’s devastating crash that closed the busy Green River Tunnel, thousands of vehicles are driving through town instead.

WYDOT Director Says Green River Tunnel Crash Started Outside Tunnel

The 26-vehicle fatal crash inside the Green River Tunnel on Interstate 80 started outside of the tunnel, WYDOT Director Darin Westby told Cowboy State Daily on Monday. Work crews continue to clear debris from the roadway.

Morning Show with Jake — Monday, February 17, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Monday, February 17, 2025

Monday's headlines include: * 7-Year-Old Shooting Victim Dies * 3 Confirmed Dead In Green River Tunnel * Survivors Discuss Horrors of Tunnel Disaster

Investors Purchase 40,000 Shares Of Wyoming Stegosaurus Skeleton In Just 18 Minutes

A Stegosaurus skeleton being excavated in the famous Bone Cabin Quarry near Medicine Bow is expected to sell for millions. In December, investors could purchase a share of the dinosaur for $68.75. 40,000 shares sold in 18 minutes.

Trump Calls Bo Biteman A ‘Patriot’ For Universal School Vouchers Bill

President Donald Trump on Sunday called Wyoming Senate President Bo Biteman a "patriot" for his efforts to pass the Wyoming Freedom Scholarship Act, a bill that would bring universal school vouchers to Wyoming.

Outdoor Cats Are "Murder Machines" Killing Over 1 Billion Birds Every Year, Say Biologists

Letting pet cats out to roam might seem like it’s doing them a favor, but don’t be fooled — Fluffy is a murder machine. “The estimates are that cats in the U.S. kill a billion birds a year. A billion,” one wildlife biologist told Cowboy State Daily.

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.

Cassie Craven:  Can the Government Compel Your Use of Pronouns?

Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “Government’s policies attempt to override our God-given freedom and compel our speech to fall in line with their ideological secularism, which is a religion in its own right.”

Rod Miller: Scorched Earth In Wyoming And Elsewhere

Columnist Rod Miller writes, "By strangling the lifeline for local services such as fire and police protection, water and sewer infrastructure, schools, libraries, and other essential elements of civilization, the Freedom Caucus will turn our landscape into a scorched earth of ghost towns."

The American West: Is This The Alamo’s Commander William Barret Travis?

Without the sketch attributed to Wiley Martin we have no verified authentic likeness of the commander at the Alamo, and therein lies its greatest value. But it takes a history sleuth to determine if the sketch is authentic.

Gillette Man Builds Black Powder Cannons, Lets Kids Shoot Them

What began as an outreach for troubled youth led to a Gillette machinist's shop becoming a black powder cannon and mortar factory. Now he builds cannons and lets kids shoot in a safe, controlled environment with adult supervision.

Third Fatality Confirmed In Green River Tunnel Crash, 26 Vehicles Involved

A third person has been confirmed dead in Friday’s devastating multivehicle crash in the westbound lane of the Green River Tunnel, officials reported Sunday. It’s believed 26 vehicles were involved.

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.

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.

Wyoming Must 'Close The Door' On Running Over Wolves With Snowmobiles, Schmid Says

Though his bill to ban running predators over with snowmobiles failed, Wyoming Rep. Mike Schmid says he’s determined to “close the door” on the practice in Wyoming.

Montana Man Has Spent 20 Years Forging Weapons To Stave Off A Zombie Uprising

Joey Arbour has made as many as 10,000 custom blades and knives since he started his Montana-based company Zombie Tools. His blades have been featured in television and movies like “Dune.”

Olivia, 7-Year-Old Lone Survivor Of Byron Murder-Suicide, Dies In Utah Hospital

Olivia Blackmer, 7, was the lone survivor of a Feb. 10 murder-suicide in Byron, Wyoming, by which her three sisters and mother died last week. Olivia pulled through a brain surgery early last week, but ultimately died Saturday, her family has confirmed. 

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.

Rare (And Illegal) In The U.S. Toyota Land Cruisers Turn Heads On Wyoming’s I-80

Two rare 79 Series Toyota Land Cruisers spotted near Laramie on I-80 turned heads of auto enthusiasts. These vehicles aren't legal in the U.S. and are often seen in the Middle East equipped with rocket launchers, machine guns, and other weaponry.

Cigar Bars Making A Comeback In A Post-Smoking World

Rocky Mountain states see stogie smoke rising around a growing trend of opening more cigar bars and protecting local cigar shops with tax breaks. Wyoming and Montana both are pushing forward to promote the industry.

The American West: Following Custer’s Guidon

George Armstrong Custer finished last in his class at West Point, but served admirably in the Civil War before coming to the West and commanding the 7th Cavalry. Along the way he met a gal who followed him from one Army post to another.

Tom Lubnau:  The Freedom Caucus Unleashes Big-Government Control

Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "Here are five examples of how the Freedom Caucus is less about freedom, and more about 'being the boss of you.'"

Joan Barron: Freedom Caucus’ Top Priority Bill On Stage Next Week.

Columnist Joan Barron writes, "When the legislators return next week after their crossover long weekend, they will find Senate File 69 waiting in the house."

Bill Sniffin: The Dawn Of Snowmobile Tourism In Wyoming – I Was There – Here Is What Happened

Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “We all knew that snowmobile tourism could be gigantic in Wyoming but nobody knew how to get this new industry off the ground. We needed to call in an expert.”

Kayaking Can Be Dangerous, Just Ask The Guy Who Was Swallowed By Whale

Kayaking isn't a risk-free activity, but the man who was in the mouth of a humpback whale while paddling on the Pacific Ocean was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. A Wyoming kayaker says he was “pretty amazed” by the encounter.

Responders Still Putting Out Fires, Clearing Vehicles At Green River Tunnel

At a press conference on Saturday, officials said emergency responders were still working to extinguish fires and clear piled-up vehicles, after a wreck in the Green River tunnel killed at least two people and sparked a raging blaze.

Trucker In Deadly Green River Tunnel Crash Describes Harrowing Escape

A trucker who narrowly escaped Friday’s explosive pileup in the Green River Tunnel described the horror inside and shared video footage of him kicking out the window of his truck to escape.

Gun Owners Expect Trump To Lift Nearly 100-Year-Old Restrictions On Silencers

Under the Trump administration, Wyoming gun rights advocates hope that a 91-year-old restriction on suppressors — aka silencers — will be lifted. However, nobody expects fully automatic weapons to become readily available.

Subzero Camping 101 Required For All At Small Wyoming College

The Wyoming backcountry offers a snowy campus for instructor-led expeditions into the Tetons at Wyoming Catholic College. Students are required to complete a course in subzero camping, and some even have fun.

Have An Extra Three Grand? Old “Welcome To Wyoming” Signs Are Up For Auction

Now that the state of Wyoming has put up new welcome signs on roadways all across the state, the ones that have greeted motorists since 2017 are up for sale. They aren't small -- ranging in size from 8x4 ft to 16x8 ft. Some bids are topping $3,000 so far.

Family, Friends Desperate For News Of Lusk Mother Of 7 Missing Since July

Nobody has seen or heard from Natasha Requejo since last July, leaving family and friends desperate for news of the missing mother of seven from Lusk. Her boyfriend says she just walked off one day, leaving him and her kids behind.

The Gumper, Lactose Spring And Puff 'N Stuff Geyser — Yellowstone’s More Obscure Places

For every Old Faithful and Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, there's a host of other obscure places like The Gumper, Lactose Spring and Puff 'n Stuff Geyser. A former ranger, turned historian, extensively researched every notable name in Yellowstone.

In Montana, If You Kill Someone In A Duel, You Have To Provide For His Family

Montana legislators are taking aim at an antiquated law that says if you kill or maim someone in a duel, you have to then provide for his family. That it’s still on the books elicited laughter from the Legislature when the bill to repeal the law was introduced.

Massive Response To Green River Tunnel Crash, Death Toll May Rise

The Wyoming Highway Patrol on Saturday said fatalities could rise as the number of vehicles involved in a massive crash inside a tunnel on I-80 near Green River has not yet been confirmed. First responders worked through the night to fight the fire inside the tunnel.

After DEI Fight With Legislature, University Of Wyoming Launches Image Makeover

After a very public and contentious DEI fight with the state Legislature, the University of Wyoming is launching an image makeover. They say their new “Wyoming First” agenda will focus on actively promoting its state-focused programs.

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.

People All Over Wyoming Rally To Pray For Olivia, 7, Lone Survivor Of Murder-Suicide

In Casper and all over Wyoming, people gathered Friday evening to rally and pray for the 7-year-old survivor of Monday’s tragic murder-suicide in Byron. “Wyomingites come together when needed,” a prayer organizer said.

The Roundup: A Conversation With Shane Smith

This week, host Wendy Corr chats with expert horticulturist Shane Smith, the founder of the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens. Smith's work at the Garden, his passion for growing things, and his continuing education make for a fascinating conversation! Settle in with a pen and notepad, Shane has a lot to share.

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 24

The 24th day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session Friday featured lively discussions on universal school vouchers, abortion bills and banning ballot drop boxes.

Trump Order Might Help Wyoming Couple Get Back Guns Seized By ATF

Thanks to an executive order from President Donald Trump, a Sheridan couple who lost their guns in an ATF raid might get them back.

Guest Column: I'm Fighting For Moms And Ranchers. John Bear Says That Makes Me A "Lobbyist."

Rep. Karlee Provenza writes, "Last week in this publication, Rep. John Bear called me and some of his other non-Freedom Caucus colleagues in the Wyoming House 'lobbyist-legislators.'"

Dennis Sun: Some Positives Of Agriculture

Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "There are always individuals or groups who want to stop livestock grazing and/or keep everyone from eating meat. It has been going on for years, and I realize it will most likely never stop."

Jonathan Lange: No, The Ultrasound Bill Does Not Mandate Intrusive Medical Procedures

Columnist Jonathan Lange writes: “House Bill 64 stipulates the purpose of the ultrasound: to determine the age, length and head diameter of the unborn baby. A non-intrusive ultrasound can do this as well.”

The American West: The Love Saga of Josie Bassett and the Brown’s Park Wild Bunch

Josie Bassett lived most of her life on her father's ranch, the center of the outlaw hideout known as Brown’s Park. She had five husbands - divorced four of them, running one off at gunpoint, and one husband died of natural causes … unless he was poisoned.

Government Overreach, Sloppy Drafting Kill 2 Of 3 Wyoming Immigration Bills

The Wyoming Legislature killed two of three immigration-related bills after critics said they were poorly written. They also say the bills included overreach to constricted law enforcement agencies already cooperative with federal immigration officials.

Fire, Weakened Structure Keeps Responders Out Of Tunnel For Hours; Motorists Run For Safety

Fire and rescue crews at an explosive tunnel collision outside Green River could not enter the tunnel for hours Friday after the initial crash. The fire inside was too intense, and the tunnel’s structure had been weakened. Motorists inside the tunnel had to run for safety.

Ban On Ballot Drop Boxes In Wyoming Slowly Moving Forward In Legislature

Although they didn’t take a vote on it on Friday, multiple members of a Wyoming Senate committee told Cowboy State Daily they plan to support a ban on ballot drop boxes in Wyoming.

Response Shifts To Recovery After “Huge Explosions,” Multiple Fatalities In Crash In Green River Tunnel

Heavy, black smoke billowed out of both ends of the Green River Tunnel along Interstate 80 after a fatal multivehicle pileup and fire inside Friday afternoon. Witnesses report feeling and hearing “huge explosions.” By late Friday night, the response had shifted from rescue to recovery.

Affidavit: After Casper Teen Killed, Homeowner Told Shooter To “Get Rid Of The Gun”

After a 16-year-old Casper boy was accidentally shot in the head and killed while smoking pot and playing a video game with friends, the homeowner and dad of one of the teens told the shooter to “get rid of the gun,” a court affidavit says.

Converse County Commissioner Lobbies Congress For Relief From Federal Road Regs

Converse County Commission Chair James Willox lobbied a congressional subcommittee Wednesday, asking for “flexible” transportation laws. He said rural Western counties especially need relief from burdensome federal regulations.

Wyoming Delegation Applauds Elon Musk’s DOGE Downsizing Government

Wyoming’s congressional delegation is fully behind Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, applauding its dramatic downsizing of the federal government. It’s “too big and spends too much,” says Sen. John Barrasso.

Freedom Caucus Texting People To Pressure Senators To Pass “Five and Dime” Bills

The campaign arm of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus has been sending out text messages urging people to pressure their state senators to pass the group’s “Five and Dime” slate of bills.

Morning Show with Jake — Friday, February 14, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Friday, February 14, 2025

Friday's headlines include: * Byron Victim Clings To Life * Property Tax Bill Completely Changed * Teenager Shot And Killed At Casper Home

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 23

Day 23 of the Wyoming legislative session Thursday featured important conversations about property tax relief and school choice bills. Also, a group of hunters and anglers rallied at the Capitol against what they call “bad bills.”

Sportsmen Rally Against “Bad Bills” They Say Would Ruin Wyoming’s Outdoor Paradise

With what they call “bad bills” being considered by the Wyoming Legislature, a group of hunters and anglers rallied outside the Capitol on Thursday. They say average people need more political clout to keep Wyoming an outdoor paradise.

With Repeal Of Wyoming’s Gun-Free Zones Likely, Opponents Ask For Exceptions

Even some opponents of a bill to repeal Wyoming’s gun-free zones seemed resigned to it likely passing during testimony before legislators Thursday. Now they’re asking for exceptions.

Landmark Property Tax Bill Now Calls For 50% Cut Based On COVID-Era Valuations

A bill that started the day as a straight 50% property tax cut was dramatically changed on Thursday. The 50% cut is now based on a property’s COVID-era assessed value from 2019-2024.

Gillette Man Charged With Murder For Killing Half-Sister Pleads Not Guilty

The Gillette man accused of shooting his half-sister in the head and killing her last month pleaded not guilty Thursday. Vincent Hackett faces a second-degree murder charge.

It's Been A Year Since Sheridan Police Sgt. Nevada Krinkee Was Killed On Duty

Feb. 13 will always be a day the Sheridan Police Department will never forget. It was a year ago Thursday that Sgt. Nevada Krinkee, a popular veteran of the police force, was killed in the line of duty. His sacrifice is being remembered in Sheridan and around Wyoming.  

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.

Wyoming History: Valentine’s Day Used To Be As Much For Haters As Lovers

In the 1800s and early 1900s in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Valentine’s Day was not just for lovers, it was also for haters and just for fun. It was popular to share your anonymous feelings with humorous and derogatory Valentine’s Day cards.

Sally Ann Shurmur: Finding The Good Among The Very, Very Bad This Week

Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “This week has been a rough one in the 307 most of us love so much. Yet, there is good to be found. Two women are organizing “Wyoming for Olivia,” on Friday at 5:30 p.m."

Probation For Accused Jackson Flasher Who Claimed His Pants Accidentally “Fell Down”

A man accused of flashing his genitalia at women and girls in Jackson and telling police his pants accidentally "fell down" was sentenced to one year probation, mental health treatment and community service.

Fast Action Helps Save Horse Named Frisky From Collapsed Septic Tank

A host of agencies responded fast to save a horse named Frisky that had fallen into a collapsed septic tank in southern Colorado on Saturday. The local sheriff’s office reports the horse was scared and cold, but is fine now.

Wyoming Would Buy $10 Million In Gold Under Plan Approved By Committee

Gold commodities have been skyrocketing, a trend that’s only continued since the election of President Donald Trump. Now the Wyoming Legislature is looking to get in on the action, proposing to buy $10 million worth of gold.

The American West: The Failed Texan - Santa Fe Expedition

The Republic of Texas’ grand scheme to tap the markets of New Mexico and reap huge profits from the trade between Cuba and Santa Fe by placing Texans in a “middleman” position failed miserably.

Wyoming’s Oil And Gas Industry Excited Over Trump's Pick To Head BLM

Leaders in Wyoming’s oil and gas sector are excited about Kathleen Sgamma, President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Bureau of Land Management.

Letter To The Editor: Let's All Rally Together To Support Olivia

After the tragic event in Byron earlier this week, let's all rally together and show our support for Olivia -- the lone survivor of the shooting in Byron. We are organizing candlelight vigils at 5:30pm in every county on Friday, February 14.

Teen Arrested After 16-Year-Old Shot, Killed At Casper Home

An 18-year-old Casper man has been arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter after a 16-year-old boy was shot and killed Wednesday night. It’s the third teen-on-teen fatal incident in the town in less than a year.

Shooting Of Classmates Has School Coping, Praying After Byron Murder-Suicide

The Rocky Mountain Elementary School has brought in four extra counselors and a support dog to help its 171 students in the aftermath of a Monday murder-suicide that killed one of its students and left another in critical condition.

Guest Column: A Perfect Storm on the Horizon

Upton Mayor Nick Trandahl writes, "The misconception that small Wyoming towns like Upton are sitting on any sort of fat whatsoever in our budgets is mind-blowing to me and, frankly, it's uninformed.

Explosion at Newcastle Refinery Leaves Town Without Electricity, 911 Service

An explosion at an oil refinery in Newcastle on Wednesday night, unleased a power surge that killed the town’s electricity and 911 service. One person said the explosion was like something out of a “horror movie.”

7-Year-OId Survivor Of Byron Murder-Suicide Clings To Life After Brain Surgery

The father of the only survivor of a Monday murder-suicide that claimed the lives of three girls and their mother says 7-year-old Olivia Blackmer is “still fighting.” Her brain swelling has been spiking, but she's still responding to medication, he said.

Morning Show with Jake — Thursday, February 13, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Thursday, February 13, 2025

Thursday's headlines include: * Fathers of Byron Victims Ask For Prayers * G&F Nesvik Tapped To Lead Fish and Wildlife * Pilot Makes Emergency Landing On Rawlins Highway

Wyoming Firefighters, Law Officers Fill The Capitol To Protest Proposed Tax Cut

A group of Wyoming firefighters and law enforcement officers filled the state Capitol in Cheyenne on Wednesday to protest a proposed 50% property tax cut. They say it could gut the budgets of their local departments.

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 22

Debate over a 50% property tax cut went into the late hours of the Legislature on Wednesday night after firefighters and law enforcement officers rallied against it at the Capitol earlier in the day.

Montana Legislature Requires Public Bathroom Use Determined By Birth Sex

A law requiring bathroom use to correspond with a person’s sex organs at birth passed the Montana Legislature on Monday. Supporters say it will protect women and girls, while detractors worry it will only cause confusion.

Cassie Craven:  Death to the Bureaucracy and Its Secrets

Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “In lieu of a large unelected bureaucracy, our elected officials seem to be pursuing truth and recreating a government that is responsive to the people. That is the point of democracy after all.”

Rod Miller: Voting With Dollars in the Big Empty

Rod Miller writes, “I have to chuckle when I see someone go all bug-eyed over the possibility of a politician suffering economically over his politics. What could be more free-market, capitalistic and American than that?” 

The American West: Oliver T. Jackson's Black Colony Of Dearfield In Northeastern Colorado

Oliver T. Jackson’s land thirty miles east of Greeley, Colorado, became the nucleus for the black colony of Dearfield, organized in 1910. The community was inspired by a book written by Booker T. Washington. 

Riverton Woman Gets 3-5 Years In Prison For Shooting Boyfriend's Foot

A Riverton woman was sentenced to between three and five years in prison Tuesday for shooting off part of her boyfriend's toe during an argument. Jordan Weliever also was ordered to pay about $6,100 to the state to reimburse the victim’s medical expenses. 

Wyoming School Board Races A Step Closer To Becoming Partisan

A legislative committee easily passed a bill to the House floor Wednesday that would change local school board elections in Wyoming. Now nonpartisan, if Senate File 98 passes candidates will have to declare their political affiliations.

Letter To The Editor: The Free Market Does Not Work In Education

Dear editor: There are some fallacies in the Letter to the Editor "The Free Market Works -- Even In Education" about the free market and how it applies to education.

Pilot Makes Emergency Landing On Wyoming Highway Near Rawlins

A pilot walked away from making an emergency landing on Wyoming Highway 789 on Wednesday near Rawlins. One longtime pilot calls it the “best-case scenario” for a forced landing in freezing temperatures.

Letter To The Editor: Is Your Columnist Dave Simpson Happy Now?

Dear editor: Dave Simpson is overjoyed with the return of “common sense” under President Trump. The common sense of giving an erratic, unelected billionaire and his geeks access to the personal banking information of millions of Americans?

Tom Lubnau:  Wyoming House Leadership – Promises Made, Promises Broken

Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "95 bills died in the Speaker’s drawer – bills that were created at the request of constituents to be considered by the Wyoming legislature. Speaker Neiman substituted his judgment for the wisdom of the entire body."

Lander Mayor Monte Richardson Dies Unexpectedly

Lander Mayor Monte Richardson died unexpectedly Wednesday. He had served as mayor since 2019. The City Council will meet Tuesday to appoint an interim mayor.

Bill To Give Parents More School Choice, $7K Per Kid Vouchers Advances — Barely

The Senate Education Committee advanced a school choice bill Wednesday that would give parents $7,000 per child vouchers, but just barely. The 3-2 vote means the Senate will debate allowing parents to have public money to seek private education.

Trump Picks Former Wyoming Game And Fish Chief Nesvik To Head Fish And Wildlife

Only months after retiring as director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Brian Nesvik has been picked by President Donald Trump to head the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Husband Of Woman In Byron Murder-Suicide Says She Was Depressed, Struggling

The Wyoming woman who shot her four daughters then herself Monday suffered from depression and other struggles, her husband told Cowboy State Daily on Wednesday. He said his wife's break has been both heartbreaking and shocking, because she “was not a monster.”

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.

Dad Of Two Girls Shot In Byron Murder-Suicide Pleads, “Pray For My Baby”

The father of 7- and 9-year-old girls shot Monday in a murder-suicide in Byron, Wyoming, is praying frantically for the one of four young children who survived. He pleads for the world as well to “pray for my baby.”  

Wyoming’s Influence In Trump’s Energy Plan Grows With Lummis As Western Caucus Chair

A GOP-controlled Congress and Trump administration is paving the way for expanded fossil fuel and energy production. It also paves the way for Wyoming’s influence to grow with U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis chairing the Senate Western Caucus.

Morning Show with Jake — Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Wednesday's headlines include: * Byron Mother Who Shot Her 4 Children Dies * Gordon: “Never Say Never” About Political Future * Can Wyoming Attract Major Companies Leaving Delaware?

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 21

The 21st day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session featured animated discussions on making significant changes to the state’s elections and important decisions regarding the supplemental budget.

No Outward Signs Byron Mom Suspected Of Shooting Kids Was Struggling, Neighbors Say

Sheriffs deputies described walking in on a nightmare scene Monday in a home where a mother is suspected of shooting her four children, then herself. A next-door neighbor says he was blindsided and never saw any outward signs the mom was struggling.

Bill Would Create Runoff Elections In Wyoming, Including For Governor

The Wyoming House passed a bill on second reading Tuesday that would create separate runoff elections for the state’s highest elected officials, including governor. A runoff would be triggered if no candidate gets 50% or more of the vote in a primary.

LDS Church Admits Cody Official Gave Bad Advice That Led To Approval Of Temple

An attorney representing the LDS church told the Wyoming Supreme Court on Tuesday that a city official gave bad advice that led to approving a controversial 101-foot steeple for the temple the church is building there.

Byron Mom Suspected Of Shooting Her 4 Daughters Then Herself Dies

The Byron mother who called 911 to say her four daughters had been shot then turned the gun on herself died Tuesday afternoon, the Big Horn County Sheriff told Cowboy State Daily. 

UW Says It's “Too Early To Say” Return On $2 Million Josh Allen Super Bowl Ad

The University of Wyoming spent $2 million to run a 30-second ad during the Super Bowl featuring newly minted NFL MVP and UW alum Josh Allen to create a buzz. The university says it's “too early to say” whether the strategy will pay off in higher enrollments.

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?

Letter To The Editor: Wyoming Must Take a Stand Against Animal Cruelty

Dear editor: Two statewide polls have shown strong public opposition to using vehicles to harm wildlife. In fact, a poll by sportsmen found that 75% of respondents believe wildlife should be killed only with a clean, humane shot.

Candy Moulton: What's Inside The American Windmill Museum

Candy Moulton writes: “Lubbock, Texas, has some similarities to places in Wyoming – the wind always seems to blow! That makes it the perfect place for the American Windmill Museum.”

Letter To The Editor: Gun Lobby Pushing Gun Bills Wyoming Citizens Don't Want

Dear editor: A guest column written by Sen. Cheri Steinmetz and John Lott, the president of the Crime Prevention Research Center, uses the fiction that 94% of mass public shootings occur in gun free zones.

Legislators: If State’s Paying $90M For New La Prele Dam, Public Needs Access

If $90 million of Wyoming taxpayer money is going toward rebuilding the LaPrele Dam near Douglas, the public should have recreational access to the reservoir, legislators say.

Paranoid Montana Man Draws Prison Time For Pointing Laser At Aircraft

When a Kalispell, Montana, man became convinced he was being followed by low-flying aircraft, he laser-blasted a flight instructor. She used her plane to help police make an arrest, and now he’ll spend 2.5 years in prison.

The American West: Bill Carlisle – The Lone Bandit Strikes Again (Part 2)

PART 2: Bill Carlisle, who had brazenly robbed Union Pacific Trains in 1916, and escaped through his own elusive efforts – and with some aid provided by ranchers – would hide in plain sight for several weeks. But his crime spree wasn’t over.

Casper Man Who Tried To Blow Himself Up Faces Felony Charges

A 28-year-old Casper man who unsuccessfully tried to blow himself up and challenged a police officer to “shoot me” was charged with three felonies Monday.

Small-Town Wyoming Mom Called 911, Reported Her Four Kids Shot Then Shot Herself

A Byron, Wyoming, mother called 911 to report her four daughters had been shot, then shot herself in the head Monday, the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office reported Tuesday. Three children are dead, while the condition of the fourth and mother are unknown.

Gordon Says “Never Say Never” About Political Future After Second Term

During an interview with Cowboy State Daily on Monday, Gov. Mark Gordon said he’d “never say never” about what his political future may hold after finishing his second term in 2026.

Rolls-Royces In Snow Tires: Sheridan Winter Rodeo Attracts Different Kind Of Cowboy

Four Rolls-Royce Cullinans and a Spectre were turning heads around Sheridan, Wyoming, this past weekend. Not everyone is a fan of the different kind of high-society cowboy attracted by the town’s annual WYO Winter Rodeo.

Lifting Protection For Otters Expanded To Other Species By Senate Committee

A bill that would lift the protected status of Wyoming otters was expanded and advanced Tuesday by a state Senate committee. The new proposal would remove protections for other species, like the black-footed ferret and wolverines.

Morning Show with Jake — Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Tuesday's headlines include: * Several Dead, Wounded By Gunfire In Byron * Rural Communities Screwed By New Postal Plan * Get Ready For Brrrrr: Coldest Weather Of Season Is Here

Five Gunshot Victims, Some Dead In Byron Shooting

Law enforcement agents found five gunshot victims at a home in Byron, Wyoming, the Big Horn County sheriff's office announced on Monday. Some were found dead; two were taken to medical care.

Wyoming Legislative Recap: Day 20

Monday was the deadline for bills to get their first reading in the Legislature, which paved the way for some lengthy and colorful floor discussions.

Legislator Concerned Property Tax Cuts Will Hurt Wyoming’s Future Generations

State Rep. J.D. Williams, R-Lusk, says he's concerned that his fellow lawmakers aren’t considering Wyoming’s future generations with the way they’re making property tax cuts in this year’s legislative session.

Razor Wire, Drugs And 'Coyotes' - Wyoming Troopers Say Texas Border Problems "Massive"

Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers who went to Texas last summer to assist state patrol and enforce the U.S. border told legislators on Monday that their experiences were eye-opening. “The problems Texas is facing are massive,” one trooper said.  

Guest Column: A Testament to Wyoming’s Culture of Opportunity, Merit and Excellence

UW President Ed Seidel writes, "Since Josh Allen was crowned MVP last week, the university hasn’t been just celebrating. We also are reaffirming a powerful truth: Excellence is built where opportunity is given, merit is recognized and hard work is rewarded."

‘Shot Heard ‘Round The World’ Observance To Honor 250th Anniversary Of Revolutionary War

Kevin Cox has organized an event on April 19 where gun owners in all 50 states will fire their guns at the same time on the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary War, otherwise known as the "Shot Heard 'Round The World."

The American West: Bill Carlisle – Wyoming’s Most Affable Train Robber

Bill Carlisle managed four solo robberies (three in a few months) in his extensive life of crime without injuring anyone. The train robberies promoted him from a common criminal to a newsworthy commodity.

State House Dumps Wyoming Cloud Seeding Program

Citing a lack of evidence that it works, the Wyoming House slashed all funding for the state’s cloud-seeding program on Monday.

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.

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.

Jackson Newspaper Gives Community A Heads-Up During Active ICE Investigation

A Jackson newspaper announced that an ICE raid was taking place Friday in Jackson Hole, while it was still occurring. One former ICE official called it "bullshit" and a breach of safety and trust. Another said the media is going to report what it thinks is news.  

Some Daytime High Temperatures In Wyoming This Week Will Be Well Below Zero

Some of the coldest temperatures of the 2024 - 2025 season are heading to Wyoming this week. Some areas of the state will see daytime high temperatures of 20 below zero while overnight low temps could hit negative 30.

Don’t Crowd The Snowplow During Wyoming’s Whiteouts

So far there have been nine incidents of motorists running into snowplows this year. With big winter storms converging on Wyoming this week, WYDOT is asking drivers to slow down and steer clear of snowplows.

Barrasso Says Crowd Loved President Trump At Super Bowl; Taylor Swift -- Not So Much

Sen. John Barrasso went to the Super Bowl with President Trump on Sunday. “One of the highlights was when they showed President Trump on the screen and people cheered, and then they showed Taylor Swift on the screen and people booed," Barrasso told Cowboy State Daily.

Steve Harshman Calls Out John Bear For Labeling Legislators as "Lobbyists"

Rep. Steve Harshman criticized fellow lawmaker Rep. John Bear on Monday for an op-ed where Bear labeled some legislators as "lobbyists." Harshman said it was a "reprehensible" accusation and could file a formal complaint.

Letter To The Editor: A Love Letter to Public Lands

Dear editor: I am incredibly disheartened that instead of celebrating our nation’s great mountains, valleys, rivers, lakes, and forests, Wyoming legislators are leading the charge to sell off public lands to drill and mine beloved lands.

Dave Simpson: You Wanted Change? We Got It!

Columnist Dave Simpson writes, “Call it a sea change, a new sheriff in town, or 'a come to Jesus moment,' but Donald Trump is making good on promises, and bringing common sense back into fashion.”

Letter To The Editor: Legislature Failed With Not Addressing Snowmobile Wolf Killings

Dear editor: It is shameful that the Wyoming Legislature refuses to pass Mike Schmid’s amendment to house bill 275 or House Bill 331, both of which would prohibit the intentional killing of wildlife with snowmobiles.

Morning Show with Jake — Monday, February 10, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Baby Safe After Car Thief Abandons Vehicle Near Riverton

A three-month-old baby who was in the back of a stolen Ford Escape was returned to its mother on Sunday evening near Riverton after the car thief abandoned the vehicle. The perpetrator has not yet been located.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Monday, February 10, 2025

Monday's headlines include: - Wyoming: A Place For Single Dudes - Wind, Solar Projects In Wyo Still On Track - The Success Of Dubois' Double Amputee Wrestler

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.

The American West: Wild Bill Hickok Invents the Old West Showdown

The walk-down, faceoff, quickdraw, showdown gunfight in the street has become an iconic image of the Old West. As far as history can tell us, the whole idea started with one of the Old West’s most famous gunfighters — Wild Bill Hickok.

Cassie Craven:  A Wild Week in the Wyoming Legislature

Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “A few remnants of the failed and governor-supported ‘Wyoming Caucus’ are kicking and screaming while the majority of the House pushes toward government reform.”

Rod Miller: Goat Ropin’ In Gaza For Trump – A Campfire Parable

The sultry Mediterranean night made the cowhands sit waaay back from the campfire. The hot hamoun wind made them swap their Tony Lamas for sandals, and their sweaty stetsons for sweaty keffiyehs. All in all, they were not pleased to be herding goats in Gaza.

Wyoming: A State For Single Dudes

Wyoming ranks as the state with the third highest ratio of bachelors in the United States. For every 100 single women, 106 unmarried men are milling around. In the early 1900s, there were proposals considered that would tax bachelors to encourage them to get married.

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.

The Art Of Turning Manure To Compost

Manure management is one of the biggest problems faced by feedlots. One soil scientist is helping a feedlot in Worland make better use of their manure by creating more compost for local farmers and gardeners. 

Oh Yay. There's A New Type Of Tick In Wyoming.

Wyoming already had three well-known ticks that are harmful to humans in the state: The Rocky Mountain wood tick, brown dog tick and a soft tick. Now, it's got a fourth. The American Dog Tick is here and seems to be concentrated in Sheridan County.

A Rock Found In Worland Could Be Magic Or An Ancient Tool 

When LeAnn Baker found a rock with a smooth hole in the middle, she was told it was a magic hag stone. However, archaeologist Mike Beis said it was most likely a spindle whorl, a simple tool used by Indian tribes for centuries. 

The Best Mustaches Of The Wyoming Legislature

There are a number of state legislators who have some scruff above their upper lip in the 68th Wyoming Legislature. Two magnificent mustaches, however, rise above the fold.

Wyoming Redneck Chronicles, Part 2: Cheyenne Mechanic's .50 Caliber Black Powder Cannon

A fully-functional miniature black powder cannon sounds like the dream of many a Wyoming man’s inner 14-year-old. Cheyenne mechanic Geno Stecks agrees his .50 caliber piece – modeled after a Revolutionary War Naval gun – is an absolute hoot. 

Scientists Are Taking Possibility Of Asteroid Slamming Into Earth Seriously

The newly-discovered Asteroid 2024 YR is being taken seriously by scientists at NASA who say it's got a legit shot at slamming into the Earth. Right now, the odds are 1 in 43. UW planetarium guru says El Salvador is much more likely of a hit than Wyoming.

Are Wyoming Mountain Lions Better At Killing Each Other Than Hunters Are At Killing Them?

The best hunters of mountain lions? Mountain lions. A study of mountain lions in the Snowy Range Mountains suggests that the big cats can control their own population just as well, or better, than hunters can.

Dubois Double-Amputee Wrestler Has Made The Most Of His Disadvantages

Sammie Cyrus, a senior at Dubois High School, has won over 100 matches and become an exceptional wrestler despite losing the lower halves of both his legs as a child. With the right mentality and attitude, anything can be overcome, he says.

It's Not Your Imagination: The Jerky Meat Industry Is Exploding

Riverton's Brian Tucker saw the writing on the wall in the booming jerky industry. His company, which focuses on the do-it-yourself jerky-makers, is one of the largest in the world. It's a $6 billion industry and could grow to $10 billion in the next 7 years.  

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.

Cody Woman Donates 4 Gallons Of Breast Milk To New Wyoming Milk Bank

Cody Regional Health has become a milk depot for Mother's Milk Bank, an agency that pasteurizes and distributes donated breast milk to infant ICUs across the nation. A local woman has already donated 4 gallons to the new milk bank.

Summertime Reservations Going Fast At Lodges in Yellowstone, Glacier and Grand Teton

Reservations for the in-park lodges at Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park are starting to fill up for the summer tourism season, though some of the most sought-after lodging options are already booked.

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.

The American West: American David Meriwether Taken Prisoner And Marched To Santa Fe       

Anxious to make a trip to New Mexico to investigate stories of abundant gold there, David Meriwether headed West only to be captured by Spanish soldiers and marched to Santa Fe in 1820. When freed, he promised never to return—but he broke the promise thirty years later.

What's In A Name: Dubois, Wyoming

You can always spot a tourist in Dubois, Wyoming, by how they pronounce the name of the town. In Wyoming, it's called Doo-boys, not the French pronunciation of Deh-bwah. How it got called that is shrouded in myth and mystery.

VIDEO: An Old Horse Trainer Returns To His First Roots

Charles Walks had walked away from horse training for about a decade, but he couldn’t stay away. Now at the Terry Bison Ranch in Cheyenne, he returned to the job he had learned while growing up on the Crow Reservation in southern Montana.

Joan Barron: A Revised Tax Reform Bill Is A Test For Local Governments

Columnist Joan Barron writes, "What stood out was the lack of trust many legislators have with their local governments in regard to spending. There were no claims of fraud, just overspending or maybe not being transparent about where the money goes."

Bill Sniffin: Wyoming Folks Recall Times When They Were Happiest – How About You?

Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “I asked people to share with us when they were most happy in their lives? What they shared made a big impression.”

Wyoming History: The 1919 Casper Whiskey Raid Gone Bad

A 1919 raid on a big whiskey stash by lawmen in Casper was a disaster in every way. A shootout killed a deputy and wounded many others. The sheriff never produced a warrant and those raided pleaded ignorance to knowing they were officers. Everyone charged walked away.

Grandparents Of Murdered Upton Teen Plead For Missing Persons Bill

By the time authorities were legally able to enter the home on Oct. 7, 2019, it was too late. Shayna Ritthaler was found dead in a closet covered with clothing. Wyoming is one of six states that don't have missing person reporting requirements.

Wyoming's Everywhere At The World-Renowned Tucson Gem and Mineral Show 

Hundreds of vendors from dozens of countries converged in Tucson, Arizona, for the annual Gem and Mineral Show, where the best and most impressive gems, minerals, and fossils turn the past into profit. And everywhere you looked, Wyoming was represented.

Wyoming Senate Outspends House By $109 Million In Supplemental Budget

The Wyoming Senate and House wrapped up their supplemental budgets on Friday night, with the Senate outspending the lower chamber by $109 million. Both added some support for local governments and schools in the event that a major property tax relief bill passes into law

Inside the Smoke Shack Underworld At A Ski Resort Near You

You won't find any smoke shacks listed on a trail map, but they're there. Across the Rocky Mountain West, fort building ingenuity lives on in the shadows of ski areas where friends gather to defog their goggles and fill makeshift structures with marijuana smoke. 

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.

Meet Tiny, A 2,000-Pound Texas Longhorn And Officially Registered Emotional Support Animal

Fed up with the “emotional support animal crock of crap,” a Texan decided it would be funny to try registering his massive longhorn steer as an emotional support animal. It worked.

Wyoming Legislative Recap: Day 19

Supplemental budget discussions took up most of Day 19 at the Wyoming Legislature, while some critical bills were also killed in committee hearings.

Wyoming Committee Kills 'Sweeping And Almost Vindictive' Anti-Obscenity Law

A Wyoming Legislative committee killed a broad anti-obscenity bill on Friday. Republican Rep. Tom Kelly said lawmakers shouldn't lose sight of the real problem of sexually-graphic books in kids' library sections, but the solution isn't to advance a “sweeping and almost vindictive law."  

The Roundup: A Conversation With Eli Bebout

This week, host Wendy Corr visits with longtime Wyoming legislator Eli Bebout. From his childhood in Shoshoni to his leadership in both the Wyoming House and Senate, Eli has lived a unique and meaningful Wyoming life!

Appropriations Committee Advances Sweeping Immigration Bill That Would Make It Felony To Harbor Illegals

A Wyoming immigration bill that would levy state-level felony charges against people who harbor or transport illegal immigrants kept its $1 million price tag Friday, when the Senate Appropriations Committee approved it. The state Senate will debate the bill next.  

Feds Will Listen To Wyoming This Time About BLM Rock Springs Plan, Former Trump Interior Official Says 

A former high-ranking Dept of Interior official told Cowboy State Daily that the BLM's Rock Springs area plan will likely be heavily revised toward Wyoming’s liking and will be "very respectful" of Gov. Mark Gordon's recommendations.

Bill Would Give Wyoming Strongest Laws In Country To Fight Frivolous Defamation Lawsuits

A Wyoming legislative committee advanced a bill on Friday that legal experts say would give Wyoming the toughest laws in the country to prevent the filing of frivolous defamation lawsuits.

Sidelined By Open-Heart Surgery, Casper Rep. J.R. Riggins Hopes To Return By Last Week Of Session

Casper. Rep. J.R. Riggins, elected to the legislature in November, spent one week on the job before open heart surgery. He hopes to return the last week of the session.

Death Penalty On The Table In Bow And Arrow Death; Prosecutor Says Man Was 'Impaled'

Sublette County Attorney Clayton Melinkovich said he hasn’t ruled out seeking the death penalty for two Big Piney men charged Friday with first-degree murder, in the death of a man investigators say was killed by a bow and arrow. The victim was "impaled" by a man who later bragged about the act to friends, Melinkovich alleged in court.  

Casper Man Receives 60-Plus Years For Child Rape, Child Pornography Charges

A 26-year-old Casper man who once bragged about having sex with young children was sentenced on Friday in Natrona County District Court to over 60 years for raping a child and soliciting others to do the same.

The American West: Tip Vincent And The 1878 Elk Mountain Murders

Henry H. “Tip” Vincent, a detective and tracker for the Union Pacific Railroad, carried a Sharps rifle loaned to him by Otto Franc as he pursued George Parott and a group of train robbers to the west side of Elk Mountain, where he was gunned down and the Sharps was stolen.

Letter To The Editor: The Wyoming Legislature -- A Political Spectacle at the Expense of Trans Lives

Dear editor: The larger issue at hand is the cruelty behind these anti-trans bills, not to mention the sheer volume. These measures are not about policy — they are about ensuring that transgender people, especially transgender women, do not have the right to exist in public spaces.

Letter To The Editor: Transfer Of 30 Million Acres Of Federal Land Is Horrible Idea

Dear editor: Losing this tremendous public land resource that currently belongs to all Americans for present and future generations would be an absolute tragedy.

Letter To The Editor: Wyoming's New License Plates Are Repulsive

Dear editor: There have been some unattractive license plates, many were plain, and some had odd colors. But none were so ugly as to compel a letter to an editor. These new plates are repulsive.

Jonathan Lange: Our Founders Had School Choice - So Should We 

Columnist Jonathan Lange writes: The flourishing private schools of yesteryear didn’t close down because of natural market forces – but because every parent who wanted to benefit from private school education had to pay twice. That’s not fair.

University Of Wyoming Spends $2 Million For Super Bowl Ad Celebrating Josh Allen

The University of Wyoming has expended $2 million for a 30-second ad during the Super Bowl celebrating Buffalo Bills' quarterback Josh Allen and his connection to the University of Wyoming. The spot will air in cities across the country and will be seen in Wyoming too.

Yellowstone to Yosemite with Kevin Costner” TV Show Premieres Saturday Featuring Wyoming Parks

A documentary series premiering on Fox Nation this Saturday explores connections between two of the first national parks, and it follows up Costner’s unscripted project “Yellowstone: One-Fifty.” 

No Charges For Thermopolis Officer, Deputy Who Shot Baseball Bat Attacker

There will be no criminal charges filed against the police officer and sheriff's deputy who shot and killed a Thermopolis man who charged them with a metal baseball bat. The special prosecutor on Friday said the agents acted within Wyoming's self-defense laws,  

Dennis Sun: Wyoming’s Outdoor Recreation Needs Managed        

With many people not respecting private property, outdoor recreation can be a large problem. Side-by-side ATVs, four-wheelers and other off-roading vehicles can cause a lot of damage to roads and other resources, especially waterways.

Wyoming Cowboys Will Play Coach Prime And the Colorado Buffaloes Next Season

On Sept. 20, the Wyoming Cowboys will head down to Boulder for an anticipated matchup with Coach Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes, a contest that will feature two young teams and bring national exposure to a regional matchup. UW last played CU in 2009.

Two Big Piney Men, 18 and 19, Charged With First-Degree Murder In Bow And Arrow Death

Sublette County sheriff's investigators found a 23-year-old man dead of apparent arrow wounds Wednesday in a Big Piney home. Two men aged 18 and 19 were charged with variations of first-degree murder Friday morning.

Morning Show with Jake — Friday, February 7, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Wyoming's Josh Allen Wins His First MVP

Former University of Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen won his first most valuable player award on Thursday night. The Buffalo Bills QB edged out Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson in the closest ballot since 2005.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Friday, January 7, 2025

Friday's headlines include: * 16-year-old Girl Charged In Double Shooting * UW: No Problem In Complying With Trans Ban * Politicos Cheer Trump’s Reversal Of BLM-Land Plan

Wyoming Legislative Recap: Day 18

Tensions flared on Day 18 of the Wyoming Legislature as lawmakers sparred over the supplemental budget and parental choice.

House Advances Bill To Create New State Monument, Mount Rushmore-Sized Optional

A legislative committee advanced a bill on Thursday that would create a group to study building a "Monument to America" in Wyoming. The amended bill removes the requirement the statue be as large as Mount Rushmore, however.

The American West: Josiah Gregg - Documentarian of the Santa Fe Trail

Josiah Gregg, through the magic of the written word, brought the romance and mystery of the Santa Fe Trail to anyone who would take the time to read his wonderful book.

University of Wyoming 'Will Have No Problem Complying' With NCAA Transgender Sports Ban

The NCAA on Thursday barred males from participating in women's sports. The University of Wyoming, which forfeited two women's volleyball matches last fall against a team with a trans player, said it will have “no problem complying.”  

USGS Using A Helicopter Hula Hoop To See What's Buried Under Southeast Wyoming

The United States Geological Survey has started flying helicopters between 100 to 200 feet above the ground with a giant electromagnetic sensor to identify water, minerals and metals buried up to 1,500 feet underground in southeast Wyoming. 

Fishing Could Be Limited To Lures, Flies Because Too Many Released Fish Are Dying

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is considering changes to fishing regulations on the North Platte drainage to artificial flies and lures at the Gray Reef and Fremont Canyon dams because too many released fish are dying.

Letter To The Editor: Abortion Bills Are Brazen Contradictions To Wyoming's Principles

Dear editor: Wyomingites have always valued limited government and personal liberty. These abortion bills are brazen contradictions of those principles and infringe on our state constitution by interfering in private healthcare decisions.

Teen Girl Accused In Reliance Bonfire Shooting Charged As Adult

A 16-year-old Rock Springs girl has been charged as an adult after Sweetwater County Sheriff’s investigators say she shot two men who were in a fight with her boyfriend. The shooting happened late Saturday near a bonfire party spot outside Reliance.  

Letter To The Editor: The Free Market Works -- Even In Education

Dear editor: Free-market competition will revive our education system by giving parents the freedom to choose the best school for their child’s needs. Just attach the money to the child and let the free-market work.

Guest Column: Let's Repeal Gun Free Zones

State Sen. Cheri Steinmetz and John Lott, president of the Crime Prevention Research Center, write, "By identifying and targeting gun-free zones, attackers can ensure they will be the only armed people present."

Senate Saves Resolution Calling On Congress To Give Wyoming All Public Lands Except Yellowstone

On a razor thin 16 - 15 vote, the Wyoming Senate revived a bill on Thursday calling on Congress to hand over all public lands to the state, except Yellowstone. The bill had been rejected earlier in the day on a 16-14 vote.

Here Comes The Sun: February Is Month For Greatest Increase In Sunshine

For those tired of the dark, dreary days of winter, February is the month of optimism. This is the month where we gain the most sunlight. Cody and Greybull are tops in the state and will gain 1 hour and 19 minutes of sun by the end of the month.

Without Stiffer Trespass Law, There Could Be Gunfights, ‘Blood On The Prairie,’ Lawmaker Says

A bill that would have stiffened Wyoming’s hunting trespass penalties died in committee on Thursday. The bill’s sponsor warned of violence if more isn’t done to curb trespassing. "I fear there will be shootouts and blood on the prairie,” Rep. Allemand said

Sally Ann Shurmur: Thoughts On Parenting As The Oldest Turns Older

Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “I only ‘lost’ him twice and both times nearly killed me.”

Fremont County Library Director Publicly Scolded After Speaking Against Obscenity Bill

The library director for Fremont County was scolded Thursday for not clarifying she was speaking personally, when she criticized a proposed state law seeking to punish librarians for exposing kids to obscenity. Anita Marple said she'd clarify her position, and learn from the experience.

House Advances Bill Giving Political Parties More Say In Filling Vacancies

The House Appropriations Committee, by a 6 - 1 margin, advanced a bill on Thursday that would give local and state political parties more power in filling political vacancies in Wyoming

Guest Column: Lobbyists on the House Floor Are Wasting Your Money

Rep. John Bear writes, "There are some skilled lobbyists who have found their way to the House floor, and they even cast votes on bills. These lobbyist-legislator hybrids have made it clear who they represent, and it’s not the people – it’s the government."

Judge Won’t Dismiss Sheridan Man’s “Sucker-Punch” Manslaughter Case Early

A judge declined Tuesday to dismiss the case of a man accused of killing a Sheridan hockey coach with a blow the coach's girlfriend called a "sucker punch." Cody McCalla claimed he acted in self-defense after getting into a fight with the victim. 

Trump Administration Shuts Down Controversial Biden-Era Rock Springs Management Plan 

Sweetwater County officials were thrilled at news that a controversial federal land management plan had been shut down by the Trump administration. Newly-appointed Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum made the decision late Wednesday.

Bills To Ban Voting Machines Killed In Committee

Two bills that would’ve banned voting machines and mandate hand count elections in Wyoming were rejected by Senate and House committees on Wednesday night. Legislators cited costs and vulnerabilities as reasons for striking the bills down.

Dave Simpson: Obscenity Bill Could Die In Committee

Columnist Dave Simpson writes: “Time's running out on a bill that would remove an exemption for librarians from a law that prohibits exposing minors to pornography. One would think that our new common-sense House leadership would at least agree to let this bill out of committee, and proceed to the House floor for debate by the whole body. It deserves as much."

Morning Show with Jake — Thursday, February 6, 2025

Jake in the 307. Weekday mornings 6-10 a.m.

Wyoming Legislative Recap - Day 17

Discussion of the supplemental budget was a major focus of the Wyoming Legislature on Wednesday, as were two bills that could ban abortion in Wyoming.

Cowboy State Daily Video News: Thursday, February 6, 2025

Thursday's headlines include: * Delegation Applauds Trump Trans Ban * Deaths Investigated At Gillette Nursing Home * Cody Police Advise Against Spontaneous Skijoring

Halfway Point: New Conservative Majority vs Old Guard Minority In 2025 Legislative Session

The 2025 Wyoming legislative session will reach its halfway mark on Thursday. The session looks and feels distinctly different from years’ past, with a majority made of Freedom Caucus Republicans, wielding power in the House for the first time.

The American West: Charles Dickens Visits America’s Plains

In the 19th Century, the American West had a brisk tourism industry, which grew as the convenience of travel provided by coach service, railroads, and boats. Among the early travelers was Charles Dickens, England’s most accomplished author.

Wyoming Republicans Taking New Approach To Trying To Ban Abortion

The Wyoming Legislature considered two different bills on Wednesday that take new approaches in trying to ban abortions. The Legislature passed two separate bans on most forms of abortion in 2022 and 2023 but both are currently being held up in court. 

In Brief: Man In Big Piney Home Found Dead, Other Man Questioned

A man was found dead of "significant injuries" Wednesday in a home in Big Piney, the Sublette County Sheriff's Office reports. Another adult male was detained for questioning.

Wyoming Delegation Applauds Trump's Trans Athlete Ban

Wyoming's congressional delegation cheered President Donald Trump's Wednesday executive order defunding schools that let males play female-only sports. ”The far left’s attack on female athletes is the women’s rights issue of our time,” Sen. Lummis said.

Hunters Say Proposal To Take Away Hunting, Fishing Privileges For Trespass Is Draconian  

A proposal to ban people from hunting and fishing anywhere in the country if they get caught trespassing in Wyoming goes overboard, some outdoorsmen said. Others say, the current law is too weak and stiffer penalties are needed.

Cody Residents Celebrate Snow Day By Slapping On Skis And Attaching Themselves To Moving Cars

Although it's frowned on by the police, some Cody residents celebrated their snow-day on Monday by slapping on some skis and attaching themselves to vehicles with a rope. One Cody resident posted photos of the amateur skijoring but blacked out incriminating evidence to protect the guilty.

Governor, AG Say Judge Misapplied Law When Striking Down Abortion Bans

The Wyoming Attorney General’s Office argued this week that a judge misapplied the law when she struck down two abortion bans in November. The AG claims in a filing that the judge leaned on an abortion-friendly doctors' testimony when proclaiming abortion "health care."

Letter To The Editor: Wyoming’s Tax Debate is a Slow-Motion Train Wreck

Dear editor: The fantasy is that voters will finally connect taxes to services when cuts bite. But what’s the lesson? That 911 calls go unanswered? That our kids’ schools hemorrhage teachers?

Rod Miller: Using Kids As Human Shields In A Culture War

Columnist Rod Miller writes, "It boils down to this: if you don’t want to read a book, don’t read it. If you don’t want your minor children reading a book, don’t let them read it. Libraries don’t force-feed anything to anyone."

Casper-Area Solar Farm Killed After Dozens Of Residents Speak Out Against It

Natrona County commissioners on Tuesday voted 3-2 against a 2,000-acre solar farm proposal on private ranch land 30 miles west of Casper. Dozens of area residents spoke out against it during a 7 1/2 hour meeting that ended around midnight.

Huge Immigration Bill Gets A Makeover; Wyoming Sheriffs Still Hesitant

A Senate committee proposed changes Tuesday to a massive Wyoming immigration bill that would make sheltering or transporting illegal immigrant a felony, among other mandates. The state's law enforcers can work within the new version, but they'd "hesitate" to say they support it, their lobbyist said.

Letter To The Editor: Don't Make Us Live With These Horrible License Plates

Dear editor: Please don’t have us live with these ugly new license plates for any more than eight long years.

Letter To The Editor: Be Careful On National Concealed And Carry Bill

Dear editor: The proposed bills to allow concealed carry and open carry on a national basis has two sides to it.

Letter To The Editor: Three Bills That Are Threatening Wyoming's Way Of Life

Dear editor: Public lands are precious beyond measure. No matter who you are, you can wake up, and love the land, and let the land love you back. Once public land is lost, it’s gone forever. Right now, there are three bills that threaten this beautiful patchwork quilt that we live in.

Tom Lubnau: Freedom Caucus’ Policies Enticing For Bad Actors

Columnist Tom Lubnau writes: “In the desperate pursuit of their agenda, the Freedom Caucus is inadvertently creating the perfect environment for extremist activities. Imagine this fictional scenario…”

House Advances Bill To Make Wyoming Attorney General An Elected Position

The House Judiciary Committee advanced a bill on Wednesday, by a 6 - 3 margin, that would make the Wyoming Attorney General an elected position. Supporters of the bill have criticized Wyoming AG Bridget Hill for either taking too long to file lawsuits or not filing enough.

Coroner's Report: Senior Died Of Hypothermia At Gillette Assisted Living Center

A coroner's report released Tuesday revealed an ongoing investigation into two deaths at a Gillette assisted living center. In January, an 88-year-old resident was found dead of hypothermia outside while a 66-year-old resident died of an overdose in November. Five employees have been terminated.

Evanston Snowmobiler Killed In Avalanche; Friends Say Man Was 'Too Good For This Earth'

Scott Wright, 37, of Evanston, Wyoming, was killed in an avalanche in Utah on Monday, authorities say. A friend of his told Cowboy State Daily that Wright was an avid snowmobiler who loved working on the machines and building them.