Business & Tourism | Cowboy State Daily

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

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 15, 2025

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

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 14, 2025

A new policy has gone into effect at Denver International Airport where people can't pay for parking with cash.

DIA Stops Taking Cash As Payment For Parking At Airport Lots

DIA has stopped accepting cash at its parking lots to speed up the exit process. The airport joins an increasing number of businesses and services that are doing away with cash, including the National Park Service and the University of Wyoming.

Justin GeorgeJanuary 13, 2025

In the fall, a side shelf was added called the Jam Stand which includes a variety of canned items.

Honor System Works For Tiny Unmanned Worland Roadside Farm Stand

A cabinet full of products on the side of a road, trusting people not to steal everything in it may seem naïve in today’s world. But it works in Worland where a tiny unmanned roadside farm stand is thriving on the honor system.

Amber SteinmetzJanuary 12, 2025

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

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 12, 2025

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

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 12, 2025

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 11, 2025

Like It Or Not, Self-Driving Semi-Trucks Are Inevitable; Montana Company Leading The Way

Self-driving technology for the trucking industry is evolving quickly. Many of those advances originate in Montana through a company that researched autonomous trucking technology on the treacherous Lone Peak in Montana.

David MadisonJanuary 11, 2025

Gaslight Social customer John Lee, center, believes the Surgeon General should look at the substances banned by Europe and allowed in the United States rather than go after an updated alcohol warning label. With him at left is Cave Derell of Casper, and right, Charlie Chapin.

Wyomingites Not Thrilled With Surgeon General's Call To Add Cancer Warnings To Beer

Most Wyomingites Cowboy State Daily interviewed scoffed at the U.S. surgeon general's call to add cancer-labels to beer cans. Sen. John Barrasso, a doctor, said labeling beer cans is not the answer.

Dale KillingbeckJanuary 11, 2025

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

Wyomingites Pay More For Rural Postal Service Deliveries Through Sneaky Surcharge

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

Renée JeanJanuary 10, 2025

A large U-Haul facility in east Cheyenne, Wyoming.

People Keep Leaving California, But Fewer Moving To Wyoming, U-Haul Reports

Fewer newcomers made their way to Wyoming and Montana in 2024, but the stream of transplants continues into Idaho. That’s according to data reported by U-Haul, which also reports California is the place people most want to leave.

David MadisonJanuary 08, 2025

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

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 07, 2025

Ski Patrol members at Park City Mountain picket in Park City, Utah, on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025.

Park City Ski Patrol Strike Has Divided Ski Industry In Western States

Striking ski patrol workers at the upscale Park City Mountain Resort in Utah have skiers who want to pay big bucks for a luxury experience crossing a picket line. It’s also divided the ski industry in Western states, including Wyoming.

Leo WolfsonJanuary 07, 2025

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

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 06, 2025

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

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 05, 2025

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

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 04, 2025

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

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 04, 2025

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

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

Renée JeanJanuary 04, 2025

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 30, 2024

Artillery World is one of at least a half dozen fireworks warehouses off Interstate 25 just across the Colorado border.

Most Of Wyoming’s New Year’s Fireworks Sales Are To Folks From Other States

Wyoming fireworks stands report steady business from Colorado ahead of New Year’s Eve, but some stores say the upcoming New Year’s holiday is a dud.

David MadisonDecember 30, 2024

Kayleen Harding has been an EMT with Frontier Ambulance since November 2022. She recently began working to improve communication between EMS professionals and members of the Wind River Reservation.

Riverton Woman “Dumbfounded” To Be Named One Of The Best EMTs In The Nation

Kayleen Harding is dedicated to saving lives in Fremont County and the Wind River Reservation as an EMT for Frontier Ambulance in Riverton. She said she was "dumbfounded" to be awarded as one of the best EMTs in the nation.

Amber SteinmetzDecember 29, 2024

Uphill travel and ambitions continue to expand at Montana’s Big Sky Resort, where the new Lone Peak Tram and Powder Seeker Six Pack try to thin crowds by quickly dispersing skiers around the resort.

Montana’s Big Sky Resort Surges Ahead Of Jackson Hole In Lift Capacity Race

Big Sky Resort in Montana continues to compete with nearby Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for upscale ski clientele. It has surged ahead of its Wyoming neighbor with the opening of Madison 8, the longest eight-place chairlift in the world.

David MadisonDecember 29, 2024

Casper’s Backwards Distilling Co. makes its own liquors, then turns them into show-stealing cocktails. Many of the creations — and atmosphere — are inspired by the circus.

Drinking Wyoming: Cocktails Steal The Show At Casper’s Backwards Distilling Co.

Casper’s Backwards Distilling Co. makes its own spirits, then turns them into show-stealing cocktails. Many of the creations — and atmosphere — are inspired by the circus.

Zakary Sonntag for Cowboy State DailyDecember 29, 2024

Scissorbills Saloon in Big Sky, Montana.

Gallatin County, Montana, Is Drunkest County In America

A new CDC study shows that 27% of people who live in Gallatin County, Montana, drink to excess, making it the drunkest county in America. Nearby Teton County in Wyoming isn't far behind, dubbed the booziest in the Cowboy State.

David MadisonDecember 28, 2024

Beef steers graze on a ranch in Dillon, Montana. The machine nearby releases a seaweed supplement while also measuring the cattle's methane emissions.

Rupert Murdoch Feeds His Montana Cows Seaweed To Make Them Burp And Fart Less

Cattle are a gassy lot, but seaweed has been shown to reduce the methane in their burps and farts on Rupert Murdoch’s Montana ranch. The Fox News mogul is testing the approach on a mix of Angus and Waygu cattle.

David MadisonDecember 27, 2024

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 27, 2024

The Megamillions lotto drawing Friday, Dec. 27, 2024, has an estimated jackpot of $1.15 billion.

Ticket Sales Explode As $1.15B Lotto Jackpot Has Wyomingites Feeling Lucky

There’s nothing like a jackpot pushing past $1 billion to make people start feeling lucky — or at least greedy. Ticket sales for Friday’s $1.15 billion Mega Millions jackpot are exploding around Wyoming.

Greg JohnsonDecember 27, 2024

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

Wyoming Mail Goes Hundreds Of Extra Miles Before Delivery

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

Renée JeanDecember 27, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 26, 2024

Jim and Paulette Moss roping together at the 2004 USTRC Finals in Oklahoma City. After Jim hurt his shoulder in a roping event, Paulette roped another eight years before she realized he wasn’t coming back. She retired and focused on their magazine.

The WRANGLER Magazine: A Couple's Nearly 40-Year Love Affair With Wyoming And Cowboy Life

You may not know Jim and Paulette Moss, but chances are you know their work. As publishers of The WRANGLER magazine, they shared their love affair with Wyoming and cowboy life for nearly 40 years.

Jackie DorothyDecember 25, 2024

Enjoying an evening in the Old Faithful Snow Lodge at Yellowstone National Park.

Christmas In Yellowstone 2024: No Better Place To Celebrate

Cowboy State Daily's Andrew Rossi had the tough assignment of spending Christmas in Yellowstone. Without crowds and the park transformed by snow and winter, it’s become a holiday tradition for families seeking an unforgettable experience.

Andrew RossiDecember 24, 2024

Toy Town, an independent toy store in Casper was full of shoppers on Monday seeking last-minute gifts.

Josh Allen Collectibles Among Hot Christmas Items At Casper Toy Store

Casper’s Toy Town was full of last-minute shoppers Monday, and even this close to Christmas there were still some plumb items available. That includes a Funko pop culture collectible of former UW quarterback and Buffalo Bills star Josh Allen.

Dale KillingbeckDecember 23, 2024

Bird Flu Is Making Christmas Dinner More Expensive In Wyoming

While the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed that human infections of bird flu are rare, the most recent outbreak is affecting Wyoming’s grocery prices — and people’s holiday dinners.

Jackie DorothyDecember 23, 2024

Can 95-Year-Old Wort Cabin Survive Jackson’s Skyrocketing Real Estate Market?

The tiny Wort Cabin in downtown Jackson started in 1929 as a bakery, and has remained an active commercial space since. Now the local historic preservation board hopes it can survive the skyrocketing real estate valuations of the Jackson market.

Andrew RossiDecember 22, 2024

Newcastle, Wyoming, author Scott Haynes is enjoying success with his “Roadie the Ranch Dog” books.

Meet The Wyoming Truck Driver Behind “Roadie The Ranch Dog” Children's Books

The face behind the popular “Roadie the Ranch Dog” series of children’s books is a 49-year-old truck driver from Newcastle. Scott Haynes grew up on a ranch and wanted to create authentic ranch stories for kids. He recently published his seventh “Roadie” book.

Dale KillingbeckDecember 22, 2024

Neo is a 4-month-old Highland bull calf that's available after a buyer backed out of a sale.

Need A Last-Minute Gift? How About A Shaggy Hippie-Cow?

Highlands are the cute, shaggy hippies of cattle, and it seems everyone wants one or two. One Wyoming ranching family says they’re also cleaner, love people and taste great.

Andrew RossiDecember 21, 2024

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 20, 2024

BNSF Railway To Eliminate Dozens Of Jobs Dec. 27

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

Renée JeanDecember 17, 2024

Love’s Travel Stops new truck stop at at 190 U.S. Highway 16 E in Buffalo, Wyoming, at exit 58 on Interstate 90.

In Brief: Love’s Opens Its First Northern Wyoming Truck Stop In Buffalo

Love’s Travel Stops opened its first truck stop in northern Wyoming this week. The Buffalo, Wyoming, travel center is located near Interstates 25 and 90 and includes 64 truck parking spaces, a restaurant and an Arby’s.

Justin GeorgeDecember 17, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 16, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 15, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 15, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 15, 2024

The Discovery Depot Forest School is based at a site called the Eagles’ Nest inside the Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park near Casper.

In Winter, Casper Outdoor Preschool A Lesson In “Resilience” For Wyoming Children

A new Casper preschool is held outdoors, even during winter. Organizers say it teaches Wyoming children one of the Cowboy State’s most highly held values: “resilience.”

Dale KillingbeckDecember 15, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 14, 2024

Cover of Matthew Thomas' book "Queen of the Tetons"

Author Gets Heat For Grizzly 399 Children's Book Put Out After Death Of Famous Bear

Former Cody resident Matthew Thomas is being accused of trying to profit off of Grizzly 399’s recent death by publishing a children’s book about the bear. Thomas says the book was almost done when she was hit by a car and killed in October.

Leo WolfsonDecember 14, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 13, 2024

Cassie's, a Cody staple since 1933, is closed as a new owner evaluates the potential of the historic restaurant.

After 91 Years, Cassie’s Restaurant In Cody Is Closed, And May Not Reopen

Cassie's Supper Club, a Cody staple since 1933, is closed as a new owner evaluates the potential of the historic restaurant. The recent demolition of other historic restaurants has the community concerned about its future.

Andrew RossiDecember 11, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 11, 2024

Wyoming Car Dealers Not Surprised By Utah Man Who Drove New Car Into Dealership

When a Utah Mazda dealership wouldn’t take back a new car, the angry customer drove it through the front doors. While extreme, Wyoming car dealers say they’re not surprised.

Leo WolfsonDecember 11, 2024

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 11, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 10, 2024

Atreus Knapp spent the first seven months of his life in the intensive care unit at Children's Hospital of Colorado. Now he also has a new bed to sleep in after Saturday's donation from Homes for the Holidays by Slumberland Furniture. The store donates 40 beds to deserving children every December. He's pictured here with mom, Cora.

All Some Wyoming Kids Want For Christmas Is A Bed To Sleep In

The Christmas wish lists for some kids in Wyoming don’t include smartphones or video game consoles. They just want a bed to sleep in. That wish was realized for 40 families Saturday in Casper with the annual Homes for the Holidays bed giveaway.

Zakary Sonntag for Cowboy State DailyDecember 09, 2024

The Chill Grill in Rock Springs, Wyoming, gives off a cool 1950s diner vibe. It's a favorite spot for locals, known for huge burgers made fresh to order.

Eating Wyoming: Chill Grill In Rock Springs Has Cool ’50s Vibe And Huge Burgers

Bernadette Boyack opened Chill Grill Old Fashioned Soda Shop in Rock Springs to keep her out of a wheelchair. In the decade since, the 1950s-themed diner has become a go-to spot with locals and famous for its massive burgers.

Tracie SullivanDecember 09, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 08, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 08, 2024

Made since 1987 by Aviat Aircraft in Afton, Wyoming, the Husky is considered by many as the best bush plane in the world.

Made In Afton, Pilots Say The Husky Is The Best Bush Plane On The Planet

The Husky, a small bulldog of an aircraft coveted for its ability to land and take off anywhere, is made in Afton, Wyoming. It’s considered by many pilots to be the best bush plane on the planet.

Greg JohnsonDecember 08, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 07, 2024

As proposed members of the future Trump administration consider making it legal to sell raw milk, it is already legal in several states, including Wyoming. Raw milk can be sold directly from the producer, like Little Acres Farm in Lovell, to the consumer who assumes the risk.

Wyoming Raw Milk Producers Part Of New Federal Mandate To Test For Bird Flu

A new federal mandate to test raw, unpasteurized milk for possible bird flu contamination goes into effect in less than two weeks. That’s news to some Wyoming producers who say they haven’t heard from federal officials about the new rule.

Jackie DorothyDecember 06, 2024

Wyoming Expected To Be Worst State For Holiday Retail Sales As Shoppers Go Online

Wyoming is projected by a market research firm as the worst-performing state for 2024 holiday retail sales in a study released Thursday. State business officials say residents are shopping online more than ever, causing the decline.

Justin GeorgeDecember 06, 2024

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

Wyoming Overtakes Delaware For Most Per Capita Incorporations In The Nation

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

Renée JeanDecember 06, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 06, 2024

A horse with an infestation of screwworms on its back.

60 Years Ago, Wyoming Vet Helped Eradicate Devastating Flesh-Eating Screwworm

Wyoming Veterinarian Larry Friedman helped eradicate a devastating flesh-eating cattle parasite called screwworm in the 1960s. Now it's again a potential threat to Wyoming and U.S. ranchers.

Jackie DorothyDecember 05, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanDecember 03, 2024

Sleeping Giant Ski Resort and Zipline near Cody, Wyoming, is for sale.

Wyoming’s Sleeping Giant Ski Area Is For Sale, Listing At $500,000

The owner of Sleeping Giant Ski Area near Cody, Wyoming, says he's "not running away" from the business, but he listed the resort for sale Tuesday. He wants $500,000 from a strategic partner to help run the resort, or for someone to buy it outright.

Leo WolfsonDecember 03, 2024

A herd of cows lingers around a watering hole in Albany County.

Wyoming Ranchers Warned Of Devastating Screwworm Infestation In Mexico

The Wyoming Department of Agriculture is warning ranchers about a devastating threat to animals and people found in Mexico. The new world screwworm has been confirmed, prompting an immediate closure of the border to cattle imports.

Jackie DorothyDecember 03, 2024

Controversial Montana Land Developer Has A New Big Project, But No Land

After a failed luxury community project, Robert Rule is back pitching a grandiose Montana land development. This time, he wants to build a community for veterans, but the controversial developer has just one problem — he has no land.

David MadisonDecember 01, 2024

Sheridan native Buzz Wiggins invented the Aeflo system, which allows people to carbonate their water on the go.

Sheridan Native’s Portable Water Carbonizer Taking The Beverage World By Storm

Although other water carbonizers exist, what has made Buzz Wiggins' invention successful is the portability of it. If someone wants to carbonize their water 10 miles into the backcountry they can do that. If they decide they want to carbonate their water at the office, they can do that too.

Leo WolfsonNovember 30, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 30, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 30, 2024

Tate, Mike Miller's 3-year-old herding dog, was happy as all get-out herding sheep through Gillette on Saturday.

Wyoming Lamb Industry Is Losing To Australia, Which Has 70% Of The U.S. Market

The Wyoming Sheep Industry is facing stiff competition, with 70% of America’s lamb and sheep meat imported from Australia and New Zealand. Wyoming sheep herders are selling direct to consumers to try and gain market share.

Jackie DorothyNovember 30, 2024

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 29, 2024

After losing his "rat guy," Sean Conner started raising his own to feed his reptiles. Now he's become northwest Wyoming's go-to "rat guy."

How Sean Cooper Came To Be Northwest Wyoming's "Rat Guy"

Everyone has those “go-to” people in their lives — their mechanic, butcher, or hair stylist. They’re dependable, honest and never let you down. When it comes to rats in northwest Wyoming, there's no one better than Sean Cooper.

Andrew RossiNovember 29, 2024

The Thunder Plains mile-long horse racing track will be located 10 miles east of Cheyenne.

Wyoming’s Only Mile-Long Horse Track Also State’s First New Track In Decades

A new horse racetrack has been approved for Cheyenne, the first new track to be built in Wyoming since the 1980s. When complete, it will be Wyoming’s first mile-long track for horse racing.

Leo WolfsonNovember 27, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 26, 2024

Former Montana miner Terry Haney is moving to South Carolina to continue his mining career after the largest layoff in state history.

Families Uprooted By Largest Mine Layoff In Montana History

Terry Haney and his wife Shana packed up and left Montana on Friday having just finished construction on their dream home. Their family is one of more than 500 upended by the largest mine layoff in Montana history.

David MadisonNovember 24, 2024

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Jackson, Wyoming.

Skiers Shocked By $10,000 Luxury Jackson Hole Special-Access Pass

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is offering skiers a luxury season pass for $10,000, a shocking sum for most skiers, who say the resort has gone too far. The pass includes early access, private ski storage, continental breakfast and lounge access.

Justin GeorgeNovember 22, 2024

Cheyenne Frontier Days Chief Says New Cowboy Channel Owner Can Be Good For Rodeo

Teton Ridge, a media company based in Fort Worth, Texas, has bought the Cowboy and Cowgirl channels from Rural Media Group. The move could elevate the profile of rodeo sports in America, says the CEO of Cheyenne Frontier Days.

Justin GeorgeNovember 21, 2024

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

Wyoming’s Only Gold Mine Gets Green Light From State

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

Renée JeanNovember 20, 2024

$An electronic ear tag is placed just inside this cow's traditional ear tag.$

Wyoming, Other Western States Push Back Against Electronic Cattle ID Tags

Wyoming ranchers don’t like federally mandated electronic cattle ID tags. They hope to join other Western states in an agreement to just keep using brands for livestock identification.

Mark HeinzNovember 19, 2024

St. John’s Health in Jackson received the state’s only “A” grade from The Leapfrog Group.

Wyoming Hospitals Rank 43rd In U.S. By Patient Watchdog Group

The latest safety report cards issued by health care industry watchdog group Leapfrog rank Wyoming hospitals 43rd in the U.S. But the Wyoming Hospital Association says that doesn’t paint a full picture.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 19, 2024

Casper Man Scores $170,000 Prize Bonanza As Winner Of Maverik Sweepstakes

Mike Mitchell of Casper, Wyoming, said he never won much of anything before. Not until earlier this month when he was named the grand-prize winner of a $170,000 prize bonanza from Maverik convenience stores.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 18, 2024

Raw Milk Is Legal In Wyoming, And Trump Might Soon Make It Legal Everywhere

Raw milk is already legal in several states, including Wyoming, and the incoming Trump administration could make it legal nationwide.

Jackie DorothyNovember 18, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 18, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 17, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 17, 2024

Wyoming Whiskey Celebrating Life Of Grizzly 399 With New Limited Edition Bourbon

To commemorate the life of Grizzly 399, Wyoming Whiskey is creating a new limited edition bourbon. They say the dominant flavor is white chocolate mocha, with notes of red fruit and rich brown sugar while the finish has lingering hints of candied ginger and soft vanilla. Less than 720 bottles will be made.

Andrew RossiNovember 17, 2024

The Wyo Sports Ranch sits on 14 acres on the northwest side of Casper. It is scheduled to open on Jan. 6, 2025.

Casper’s Massive 130,000-Square-Foot WYO Sports Ranch A Draw For National Events

Set to open in January, the massive 130,000-square-foot WYO Sports Ranch in Casper is already a draw to host national events. The sprawling $49 million facility has 10 basketball courts, a huge indoor turf field and state-of-the-art tech.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 16, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 16, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 16, 2024

Mark and Mary Nelson with their grandchildren and daughters, Maggie Haron and Sadie Howard. Hippie Cow Creamery has become a full-time family business selling raw, unpasteurized milk to families in Cody and northwest Wyoming.

Cody's Hippie Cow Creamery Started With 1 Cow And Off-The-Wall Attitude

Hippie Cow Creamery in Cody started with one Jersey cow and an off-the-wall attitude. Their raw, unpasteurized milk business is exploding, and the family is as quirky as ever -- singing to their cows, dancing with their cows, and making farm-inspired music videos.

Andrew RossiNovember 16, 2024

Drought and wildfires is forcing more Wyoming ranchers to sell off more of their cattle. At Torrington Livestock Markets on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, it was the largest sale in at least a decade.

Drought, Wildfires Prompt Torrington’s Biggest Cattle Sale In A Decade

Drought and wildfires are prompting cattle ranchers in Wyoming and around the region to sell more of their cattle than ever. The Torrington Livestock market had its biggest cattle sale in a decade Friday, with 4,000 bovine sold.

Jackie DorothyNovember 15, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 13, 2024

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

Trump Presidency Gives Hope To Crypto Community In Wyoming

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

Renée JeanNovember 12, 2024

Conditions were snowy and deep in Leo Wolfson’s first day of the year on skis in the backcountry.

Back On Skis And It's Not Even Thanksgiving

The snowstorms that hit the Rocky Mountains last week produced some rare early November skiing -- if you are willing to work for it. Cowboy State Daily’s Leo Wolfson went backcountry skiing in northern Colorado on Saturday and said the conditions were ideal.

Leo WolfsonNovember 11, 2024

The new-look Wheels Motel in Greybull, Wyoming.

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 10, 2024

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 10, 2024

Ava Cole is surrounded by rocks of all types and her jewelry at Ava’s Silver and Rock Shop in Thermopolis, Wyoming.

Wyoming Rockhounds Have Been Making Museum-Quality Jewelry And Art For 50 Years

If there’s something Wyoming has plenty of it’s rocks and minerals, but it takes true artists to turn them into something unique and valuable. That’s what Eddy and Ava Cole, from Thermopolis, have been doing for 50 years, turning out museum-quality jewelry and rock art.

Jackie DorothyNovember 10, 2024

"The Green Machine" prototype Cody, Wyoming, native Thomas E. Osborne invented in 1964. It became known as the world's first personal computer and led to a line of breakthroughs in bringing computing power to the masses, getting smaller and more powerful with each generation of machines.

World's First "Personal Computer" Was Built By A Cody High School Grad

Hewlett-Packard's 9100A, the world's first personal computer, was based on a prototype built by Tom Osborne of Cody. Called “The Green Machine,” it became fully functional on Christmas Eve, 1964. His prototype revolutionized the industry.

Andrew RossiNovember 10, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 09, 2024

Cattle walk along a dire road in west Texas in this file photo.

In Texas, Cattle Run Loose After Bandits Ram Stolen Pickups Through Fences

Texas ranchers are increasingly dealing with people fleeing law enforcement, crashing stolen pickups through fences and turning their cattle loose.

Mark HeinzNovember 08, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 08, 2024

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 07, 2024

The marquee on the historic Cody Theatre would fall off the face of the building if it weren't wired on. It needs some serious repair, but needs clearance from the city and state to do it.

Marquee On Historic 87-Year-Old Cody Theatre Is Slowly Falling Off

The historic 87-year-old Cody Theatre’s slumping marquee is slowly falling off and is being held in place with wires. To fix it permanently, the building’s owner needs permits from the city of Cody and state of Wyoming.

Andrew RossiNovember 06, 2024

Wyoming Sheep Industry Cheers As Denver Voters Kill Slaughterhouse Ban

Denver voters killed an ordinance Tuesday that would have shuttered a large slaughterhouse that processed 20% of America’s lamb, and more than 50% of Wyoming's. Cowboy State ranchers are cheering the proposal’s defeat.

Jackie DorothyNovember 06, 2024

Cattle in the pasture at the Tim Millikin ranch earlier this year. When it came time to ship his yearlings, Millikin found he was missing nine.

Glendo-Area Ranchers Say They're Missing 9 Yearling Cattle, Offer $5,000 Reward

A ranch near Glendo, Wyoming, reports it’s missing nine yearlings this year and suspects they may have been rustled. And it’s not the first time.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 05, 2024

C.J. Box signs a barrel of bourbon at Pine Bluffs Distilling. The distillery will create a Joe Pickett bourbon for release in 2025.

C.J. Box Partners With Wyoming Distillery To Make Joe Pickett Bourbon

Author C.J. Box’s iconic character Joe Pickett will get a bourbon named after him in spring 2025. The special 1,000-bottle release created by Pine Bluffs Distilling celebrates a uniquely Wyoming character with a Wyoming whiskey.

Dale KillingbeckNovember 04, 2024

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

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

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

Renée JeanNovember 04, 2024