Jonathan Lange: Weston County Shows Why Hand-Counting Is Needed Even In Computer Age
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes: "The Secretary of State, with human eyes and common sense, caught the disenfranchisement of hundreds of Wyoming voters. The county clerk, the computer system and the County Clerk's Association didn't catch it."
Jonathan LangeNovember 08, 2024
Rod Miller: Triggered by Democracy? Seek Aromatherapy!
Rod Miller writes: “If pansy-ass students don’t have enough confidence in their own political beliefs to subject them routinely to the democratic process of wins and losses, they are better off making slime. They sure as hell won’t have what it takes to fight for them.”
Rod MillerNovember 08, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: Between Naps, A Victory Week Summation -- And Babies
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “You know who I am the happiest for this week — other than Kaden Anderson? My mom.”
Sally Ann ShurmurNovember 07, 2024
Clair McFarland: Trying To Vote While Mom's Threatening To Make Campaign Signs
Clair McFarland writes: “'Absolutely do not post ANY photos of my kids holding campaign signs,'” I pleaded. My mom, ever the pink boa to my black suit, chirped back 'Oh silly, it’s for the class presidency.'"
Clair McFarlandNovember 06, 2024
Tom Lubnau: Unraveling The Mysterious Legislative Majority Leadership Selection Process
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "With recent shifts in Wyoming's political landscape, we may see experience powerful committee chairs replaced by new ones who are more ideologically aligned with the current majority, which could dramatically impact the legislative session."
Tom LubnauNovember 06, 2024
Candy’s Column: Celebrating Wyoming’s Veterans
Columnist Candy Moulton writes, “One of the engraved statements on the Wind River Memorial is a sentiment often used on memorials: ‘Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.’"
Candy MoultonNovember 05, 2024
Rod Miller: Wyoming Gets Off the Couch, Like Those Cowboys at Lexington
From what I saw today at Storey Gym, nobody can say with a straight face that the people of Wyoming weren’t given a chance to speak. I have never seen so many people waiting to vote. I, for one, am impressed and humbled."
Rod MillerNovember 05, 2024
Dave Simpson: Old Dave's On Injured Reserve
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, “Until further notice, I'm like a beached whale, washed up on our living room floor, with a bulky cast on my leg that's like having a 10-pound Walleye strapped to my calf, only stiffer.”
Dave SimpsonNovember 04, 2024
Cassie Craven: Go Vote
Columnist Cassie Craven writes: 12-year-old Joselyn was found with her hands and feet bound. She had no pants. The two men who raped and killed her were illegal immigrants who flooded the country with millions of others, under the watch of Kamala Harris.
Cassie CravenNovember 03, 2024
Rod Miller: When You Vote in Wyoming, Ignore the Fear-Mongering
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "According to Oral Eathorne, our elections are rife with crime. And according to Li’l Chucky Gray, since Colorado and the Big Elsewhere seem to have problems running secure elections, we in Wyoming are similarly threatened."
Rod MillerNovember 03, 2024
Joan Barron: Getting The Public In On Legislative Votes
Columnist Joan Barron writes: "Despite all this pursuit of more transparency, nothing was said during the committee meeting about recording votes on bills in the committee-of-the-whole, which is the meeting of the House or Senate to discuss bills that have been reported out of committees."
Joan BarronNovember 03, 2024
Bill Sniffin: Who Is The Best Political Expert In Wyoming? Take The CSD Political Quiz
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “I have issued this challenge to the staff of the Cowboy State Daily and also to all our readers. Who is the smartest political observer of them all?”
Bill SniffinNovember 02, 2024
Jonathan Lange: A Spider-Man In Every Voting Booth
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes: “Nobody can pull the lever for you. When you stand alone in that voting booth, you are wielding a power that few people in history have ever been given.”
Jonathan LangeNovember 01, 2024
Dennis Sun: The New Dietary Guidelines for Americans
Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "If one looks at the makeup of the guidelines committee, they seem to be younger people who work at universities with PhDs. I would guess they all grew up in cities and don’t know how to garden. Their food and vegetables come in a box once a week."
Dennis SunNovember 01, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: Keyboard Trolls Said I Wasn't A Real Wyoming Cowboys Fan
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, "Keyboard trolls said I wasn't a 'real fan.' Let me just grab the season ticket invoices and the Cowboy Joe Club membership fees and 62 years of game attendance and we can chat then."
Sally Ann ShurmurOctober 31, 2024
Tom Lubnau: Who Poses The Greatest Threat To Wyoming Jobs This Election?
Tom Lubnau writes, "The rallying-cry this campaign has been to cut the budget. Cutting the budget in Wyoming means cutting jobs. Dollars in Wyoming equal jobs. So, if the Legislature is serious about making meaningful cuts in the state budget, it is going to have to fire people."
Tom LubnauOctober 30, 2024
Candy Moulton: Preserving A World War II POW Camp
Columnist Candy Moulton writes, "On the north side of Douglas, a nondescript building is the last remnant of a World War II Prisoner of War Camp that once had 180 buildings, covered a square mile of land, and housed 5,000 men who had been taken prisoner during fighting in Europe."
Candy MoultonOctober 29, 2024
Rod Miller: Will The Freedom Caucus Lead The Charge For Government Transparency?
Rod Miller writes, "Maybe this is where the Wyoming Freedom Caucus proves its worthiness of the trust the voters have placed in them. If the Freedom Caucus’ campaign rhetoric about openness and transparency in government is not just a bunch of hot air, they’ll lead this charge."
Rod MillerOctober 29, 2024
Dave Simpson: Where's The Pony In The Pile?
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, "What could a President Harris do to top the cabinet appointments of Joe Biden? I'm thinking that bald guy with the red lipstick who steals suitcases from airport luggage carousels would be a shoo-in for Secretary of Transportation."
Dave SimpsonOctober 28, 2024
Cassie Craven: Our Citizens Killing Themselves Is Worth The ‘Uprising’
Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “Reading Susan Stubson’s column reminded me of a recent JD Vance interview, in which he said candidly, ‘Do you hear yourself Martha?’ We rank third in the nation for suicide – but that is not worthy of an ‘uprising’?”
Cassie CravenOctober 27, 2024
Rod Miller: Drugstore Cowboys in Westonistan
Columnist Rod Miller writes: "Will the commissars of Westonistan decide that their new borders, and the rich Ivermectin deposits within them, aren’t adequately protected by law enforcement and the military based in Cheyenne? Will they decide to raise a standing army of their own to do the job?"
Rod MillerOctober 27, 2024
Bill Sniffin: Wyoming Politics – The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “In a recent story, Cheney tried to explain how a person who is pro-life, such as herself, can support Harris. It was pretty convoluted. I always was a big supporter of Liz Cheney and her family. Alas, no more."
Bill SniffinOctober 26, 2024
Joan Barron: The Fourth Estate May Finally Win Something
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "The fourth estate will keep the one fragile scrap it has left of journalist privilege: photojournalists will still be allowed to shoot photos from the corridors or halls outside the Wyoming Legislature’s senate and house."
Joan BarronOctober 26, 2024
Dennis Sun: Unmanaged Wild Horses Are A Problem
Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "A recent study published by the University of Wyoming noted sage grouse are suffering from unmanaged, high numbers of wild horses in Wyoming’s various herd management areas.
Dennis SunOctober 25, 2024
Jonathan Lange: Did Any Adults Question Kelly Walsh's Bloody Marching Band Routine?
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes, "As I watched this disturbing routine, I could not help but ask myself: Who were the adults in the room? Who wrote it? Who choreographed it? Who selected the music? Did anybody, anywhere along the way, question its propriety?"
Jonathan LangeOctober 25, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: Chasing The Elusive On The Field And At The Store
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “The inquiries started coming in before the San Jose State debacle was even over. A Cowboy from a long time ago wanted to know the last time the Pokes finished the season with just one win."
Sally Ann ShurmurOctober 24, 2024
Rod Miller: Charlie Goodnight’s Ink Bottle
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "There’s an old legend among cowboys that Charlie Goodnight never allowed alcohol on his ranch. I found his dump on that ride, and poked through it for old whiskey bottles to test that legend. All I found was an ink bottle, purpled by the sun."
Rod MillerOctober 23, 2024
Tom Lubnau: Weston County Commissioners Can’t Ignore The U.S. Constitution
Tom Lubnau writes, "By demanding one representative and senator per county, Weston County is demanding 15 times the voting power for each of its citizens than they want to afford to the citizens of Laramie County. "
Tom LubnauOctober 22, 2024
Candy Moulton: We Checked An Item Off The Bucket List Before It Burned
Columnist Candy Moulton writes, "Our fire crews and residents near the fires need a break. Hey, Don Day, could you give Mother Nature a call and get the moisture spigot turned on again?"
Candy MoultonOctober 22, 2024
Dave Simpson: Smile When You Call Us 'Far Right'
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, “Call us what you want – far right, farther right, right wing, whatever. It looks like good old conservative common sense to me.”
Dave SimpsonOctober 21, 2024
Rod Miller: Snow Is Just Another Four-Letter Word
Columnist Rod Miller writes: “I sincerely believe that hell will not be a hot place. It will be a cold, dead, snow-covered ridge-top where the wind never stops blowing and you forgot to put on your long johns.”
Rod MillerOctober 20, 2024
Cassie Craven: Critical Race Theory Is Repackaged Racism
Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “Teaching our kids that because they are white, they are the 'oppressor' and should feel 'white guilt' is deceptive Marxist distortion. It promotes what it claims to eliminate.”
Cassie CravenOctober 20, 2024
Joan Barron: Former Tea Party Head Predicts Property Tax Ballot Issue Won’t Pass
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "With the general election drawing nearer, the activity to support passage of the '4 Property tax reform' ballot proposal is almost nil."
Joan BarronOctober 19, 2024
Bill Sniffin: Wyoming’s Is Famous For Broken Windshields – Here's Why
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “Wyoming is the windiest state in America and that requires some special kind of heavier rocks on our roads in bad weather – which can come just about any time of year.”
Bill SniffinOctober 19, 2024
Dennis Sun: A Gold Mine on the Wyoming Plains
Columnist Dennis Sun writes, "The University of Wyoming is a treasure for the state of Wyoming in many ways. It gives so much back to the state, its people and others around the world."
Dennis SunOctober 18, 2024
Jonathan Lange: The Undead Amendment A Should Never Have Been Exhumed
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes: It is illegitimate for powerful people to use the color of state law to favor one use of private property while disfavoring another use of the same private property.
Jonathan LangeOctober 18, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: University Of Wyoming's Football Season Is Half Over, Now What?
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “Remember in December when newly minted Wyoming head football coach Jay Sawvel said the one thing left for the Wyoming Cowboys to achieve was a conference championship? With half the season completed, there is one win."
Sally Ann ShurmurOctober 17, 2024
Tom Lubnau: Sometimes Wyoming Urban Legends Are True
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene said a few weeks ago, 'Yes, they can control the weather. It’s ridiculous for anyone to lie and say it can’t be done.' The Greene weather discussion prompted thoughts of Wyoming-based conspiracy theories. Of the many out there, three come to mind."
Tom LubnauOctober 16, 2024
Rod Miller: Where the Sun Don’t Shine In The Wyoming Legislature
Columnist Rod Miller writes: "There should be no 'safe spaces' in the capitol where legislators can go to hide so their feelings don’t get hurt by a curious press or a demanding public. Any public official in Wyoming who thinks otherwise would be well-advised to remember Richard Nixon."
Rod MillerOctober 16, 2024
Candy Moulton: The Work of Fall - Celebrating Cowboys
Columnist Candy Moulton writes: “Judging from the young men and women who attended the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame Induction, there is a long line of men and women who’ll be ready to join the ranks when they have 45 years of cowboy work from the back of horse under their belts.”
Candy MoultonOctober 15, 2024
Dave Simpson: These Memories Last Forever
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, "“Travel as many miles as you have to, pay whatever you have to for a ticket, and stand in line for as long as it takes to see the musicians you love, in their prime, live and in person.”
Dave SimpsonOctober 14, 2024
Clair McFarland: Firewood Warms You Til You're Sick To Your Stomach
Clair McFarland writes, "As we hauled logs I had to visualize my cozy fire to keep myself going. Don’t laugh: I’m a mother first, runner second. Lifter of anything heavier than a milk jug last."
Clair McFarlandOctober 14, 2024
Cassie Craven: They Don’t Want To Call Anyone Daddy
Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “Why are we all pretending that a baby is not the result of male sperm? When a woman gets an abortion without the knowledge of the father, is that not the government allowing a decision to be made about his body too?”
Cassie CravenOctober 13, 2024
Rod Miller: There Are Two Kinds Of People In This World, The Cow Crew Figures
Columnist Rod Miller writes: “Rawhide from Rawlins, who had a year of community college under his Stetson, offered his educated opinion. ‘The only two kinds of people in the world are men an’ woman. I read that in a biology book once.’”
Rod MillerOctober 13, 2024
Bill Sniffin: We Love Our Pets – Three Good Ones Left Us This Year
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes, "What a sad year – so far in 2024, we have had to say good-bye to three of our grand-puppies. These are dogs that lived to be 12, 14, 14 years. They had become parts of our lives and were big personalities in the families of three of our children."
Bill SniffinOctober 13, 2024
Joan Barron: It’s “Save Weston County” Time
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "What colors this development is the support of the whole idea by the Wyoming Freedom Caucus. This is the group gaining power in Wyoming. That’s why I think it’s too early to dismiss this as sheer folly by a bunch of wackos."
Joan BarronOctober 13, 2024
Should You Put Winter Tires On Your Vehicle In Wyoming?
Should you get snow tires this winter? Automotive writer Aaron Turpen says it depends on where you live in Wyoming, how much winter driving you actually do, and what type of vehicle you’re going to be doing it in.
Aaron TurpenOctober 12, 2024
Jonathan Lange: Col. Thomas Hutchings Lived Purposefully
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes, "Soft-spoken and tender-hearted, Colonel Thomas C. Hutchings, USANG, Retired was a man like none other. Last week, we suddenly lost this Wyoming treasure. Cowboy State Daily readers might remember last summer’s headline, 'Miracle On I-25: Cheyenne Man Doesn't Know Who Saved His Life After Crash.' That was Tom."
Jonathan LangeOctober 11, 2024
Dennis Sun: Information to Help You Decide How To Vote
Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "For over 40 years, the American Farm Bureau Federation has sent each of the presidential candidates questions pertaining to agriculture. They are good questions, and I believe our readers could gain some value from them. I would encourage everyone to get online and read the full responses."
Dennis SunOctober 11, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: Finally, A Sandwich In The Car
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “Maybe (probably) it’s genetic, but tailgating is not as fun for me as the game. Or it could simply be that I have been going to college football games for so long that I remember when nobody tailgated."
Sally Ann ShurmurOctober 10, 2024
Tom Lubnau: Wyoming Politics Has Been Californicated, And We Are Worse Off For It
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "The crystal ball of political future does not bode well for Wyoming politics being local. Chuck Gray and the Freedom Caucus proved high dollar out-of-state style politics wins elections in Wyoming."
Tom LubnauOctober 09, 2024
Rod Miller: Remembering Yellowstone On Fire In '88
Rod Miller writes, "I was working in Governor Sullivan’s office when the Park caught fire in ‘88. As the news spread around the country, it caused the same sort of visceral reaction among folks. Yellowstone was on fire!"
Rod MillerOctober 09, 2024
Candy Moulton: Hey, Let’s Have Some Spur Spuds
Columnist Candy Moulton writes: “There’s history to potato growing and now our ‘root cellar’ is full of potatoes thanks to the Silver Spur Ranches and the Encampment FFA Chapter.”
Candy MoultonOctober 08, 2024
Note From The Editor: Welcome Two New Members Of Cowboy State Daily
Cowboy State Daily is thrilled to announce two new members of our newsroom. Justin George is our new News Editor, joining us from The Washington Post, and Reilly Strand is our new Chief Videographer, joining us from CBS-7 in Odessa, Texas.
Jimmy OrrOctober 07, 2024
Dave Simpson: Too Little, Too Late on Amendment A
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, “Given the sea change we saw in the legislative races in the August primary, let's see if a more conservative legislature can come up with something better than this flawed, last-minute constitutional amendment."
Dave SimpsonOctober 07, 2024
Cassie Craven: University Of Wyoming Did The Right Thing In Forfeiting Volleyball Match
Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “Height. Weight. Size. These impact women’s safety. I will not keep quiet about them for a game of virtue signaling and placating yet another man’s emotions. And if one more man lectures me about how I should, I may need to provide a dissertation on childbirth and what it really means to be a woman.”
Cassie CravenOctober 06, 2024
Rod Miller: Blooming Flowers & Political Hypocrisy In The Cowboy State
Rod Miller writes, "For my money, it is Cowboys (capital C) like Scott Harnsberger who may be the only thing that saves the Wyoming Republican Party from spiraling down into an authoritarian abyss of gnarliness that would make the Founders of the U.S. and Wyoming, both of whom cherished plurality and free speech, puke."
Rod MillerOctober 06, 2024
Bill Sniffin: Modern Flying Can Be Nerve-Wracking – Or Perfect
Bill Sniffin: “We old-timers can recall the amazing service the old Frontier Airlines provided last century with those ponderous Convair 580s, but this 2024 version of commercial aviation ended up being excellent, too.”
Bill SniffinOctober 05, 2024
Joan Barron: Wyoming's Gaming Growth Resembles Other Economic Booms
Joan Barron writes, "You could compare the explosion of the gaming industry to the development of coal mining in the Powder River Basin in the 1970s."
Joan BarronOctober 05, 2024
Dennis Sun: From the Ranch
Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "Despite drought, government overreach and inflation, ranchers surveyed said they are optimistic for the future."
Dennis SunOctober 04, 2024
Jonathan Lange: How We Can Help Congress And Our Secretary Of State Keep Elections Clean
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes: "Funneling campaign cash through 'straw donors' allows it to be laundered through people who have no idea they are being used. Stolen money or money from foreign donors can be injected into both national and local campaigns undetected."
Jonathan LangeOctober 04, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: The Phone Call That Changed Everything
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “Accused frequently of being overly dramatic, it’s not that when I say one phone call did change everything. Here’s the scoop.”
Sally Ann ShurmurOctober 03, 2024
Rod Miller: REAL Republicans & Broncpeelers Around The Ol’ Campfire
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "Rawhide from Rawlins exclaimed, 'I got a text from ‘em, the Wyoming GOP I mean, an’ it said iff’n I didn’t swear to be a REAL Republican, I’d come down with a case o’ cooties from a Haitian hooker. They invited me to a rally to take the blood oath.'"
Rod MillerOctober 02, 2024
Tom Lubnau: A Celebration of the Life of Bruce Hauser and Sawmill Creek Band
Tom Lubnau writes, "We sought out Sawmill Creek in the Cowboy Saloon, Boot Hill, Cassie’s, the Sheridan Inn, the Beacon Club and the Fort. They played so often at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, if you put your ear up to pine knot in the bar, you heard a Sawmill Creek song."
Tom LubnauOctober 02, 2024
Candy Moulton: Following the Sandhill Cranes in Colorado
Columnist Candy Moulton writes, "The fall migration of Sandhill cranes is a certain sign of winter to come, even as we have been dealing with unprecedented warm weather. But there are days when the mornings are cool, and the leaves are either at or past their peak in many regions of the high country."
Candy MoultonOctober 01, 2024
Dave Simpson: How Can The Election Be So Close?
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, "Do we live in a country where endorsements by Taylor Swift, Oprah Winfrey and Meryl Streep overpower the fact that 10 million illegal immigrants – some say as many as 20 million – have entered our country illegally, and have been set free?"
Dave SimpsonSeptember 30, 2024
Clair McFarland: Put Some Garlic On It
Clair McFarland writes, "This isn’t medical or economic advice, but if I were prepping for societal fallout, I’d stockpile garlic. I’m not responsible for what happens to you if you adopt any of my hillbillyisms."
Clair McFarlandSeptember 29, 2024
Rod Miller: Stewing Pumpkin Spice Liver & Onions
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "I want Cowboy State Daily readers to know that Clair McFarland is not the only writer in the stable who can pen warm scenes of domestic tranquility that take place in the kitchen."
Rod MillerSeptember 29, 2024
Joan Barron: That Hemp Prosecution Was A Mess
Joan Barron writes, "If you lived in Cheyenne and Laramie County and listened to the chattering on the streets when felony charges were filed —particularly among the young crowd—you knew the Palm-Egle case could be a prosecution disaster that would be thrown out of court."
Joan BarronSeptember 29, 2024
Bill Sniffin: Over 717,000 People Viewed Our ‘Robo Bear’ Video On Instagram – Wow!
Bill Sniffin writes: “Mark did well against the 'robo bear.' My attempt was pathetic. Despite my failure, the video of the encounter was a huge hit. This video has been viewed 717,000 times on Instagram.”
Bill SniffinSeptember 28, 2024
Jonathan Lange: Why is Wyoming Not Joining States Investigating Child Sex-Change Rules?
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes: “If the people of Wyoming have an opportunity to join other states in protecting children from snake oil, it should fall under the purview of one elected by her people. As it stands, Wyoming is glaringly absent."
Jonathan LangeSeptember 27, 2024
Dennis Sun: It’s The End Of Grilling Season
Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "We’ve all been concerned about food inflation the last four years, but we also need to appreciate what it costs to produce our food."
Dennis SunSeptember 27, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: Charming Memories Regardless Of Conference
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “This is Homecoming Week at the University of Wyoming, and the memories are flooding back. I am concentrating on them, rather than the absurdity that is the business of college football right now."
Sally Ann ShurmurSeptember 27, 2024
Cassie Craven: The House is Burning Down
Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “Confusing the hearts and minds of kids while mutilating their bodies in a profit game, and something I cannot stand alongside. I will not sit down quietly because we live in an era of virtue signaling. I refuse to be an accessory to their crimes."
Cassie CravenSeptember 26, 2024
Rod Miller: Beer and Chinwags With Dead Folks Around The Ol’ Campfire
Columnist Rod Miller writes, “'Supposin’ ya had a time machine,'” blurted Little Joe the Wrangler, out of absolutely nowhere, 'an’ you could go back in history an’ have a beer with anyone you want. Who would ya have a beer with?'”
Rod MillerSeptember 25, 2024
Tom Lubnau: How Sloppy Writing Cripples Wyoming’s New Abortion Law, Part 2
Tom Lubnau writes: "When these statutes reach the courts, as they already have, you will hear legislators claim it is 'activist judges' who are asking hard questions about these statutes. The truth is these legislators did not pass cogent laws."
Tom LubnauSeptember 25, 2024
Candy Moulton: Autumn Is A Magical Time In Beaver Creek, Wyoming
Columnist Candy Moulton writes, “This time of year, when we sit outside in the evening, we hear the elk bugling down on the creek, the distinctive cry of sandhill cranes headed south, and the cry of geese.”
Candy MoultonSeptember 24, 2024
Dave Simpson: The One Thing We Aren't – Surprised
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, “Let's just hope the Secret Service gets its unexpectedly incompetent act together before some nut kills the former president.”
Dave SimpsonSeptember 23, 2024
Aaron Turpen: After More Than A Decade, Toyota Finally Redesigned The Sequoia
Automotive columnist Aaron Turpen writes, “Toyota finally redesigned the aged Sequoia into a new third generation for the big SUV. The new version has a hybrid powertrain, lots of towing capability and an afterthought third row.”
Aaron TurpenSeptember 22, 2024
Rod Miller: A Big Stone House In Wyoming Sand
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "I grew up in a house made of native stone situated on the biggest active sand dune system in North America. The house was built around 140 years ago. Lowes and Home Depot didn’t exist back then, so those old-timers had to improvise to get building material to the site."
Rod MillerSeptember 22, 2024
Wyoming Winter Woes Include Black Holes, Yellow Highway Stripes, and No Interstate Traffic
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “I spend way too much time cautioning my family and friends about the perils of Wyoming driving during this season of long nights and short days - plus bitter temperatures, heavy snowfalls, and, yes, those doggone Wyoming winds.”
Bill SniffinSeptember 22, 2024
Joan Barron: Media Credentials Don't Mean Anything Anymore
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "What do media credentials from the Legislature Service Office get you? Well, not much anymore. In short, they have about the same status as a lobbyist or a bus driver from Greybull."
Joan BarronSeptember 21, 2024
Rod Miller: Hey, Pharmacy Board: It's Government's Responsibility To Listen
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "The Wyoming Board of Pharmacy, with armed Highway Patrol officers providing security, were at no risk of life and limb from an unarmed crowd of Wyoming citizens exercising their rights under the First Amendment."
Rod MillerSeptember 20, 2024
Dennis Sun: Hey, What About the National Debt?
Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "Our national debt has now grown over $35 trillion. Thanks to frenzied spending after the pandemic and costly programs initiated by the president and Congress, the debt load could easily top $50 trillion in 10 years."
Dennis SunSeptember 20, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: Even At 0-3, There Is Still Good To Be Found In Laramie
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “Nobody likes being 0-3. Few thought that would be the fate of this year’s Pokes, who went 7-0 at home and finished with nine wins last year.”
Sally Ann ShurmurSeptember 19, 2024
Tom Lubnau: Regarding The New Abortion Law's Word Salads, Part One
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes: "While abortions are illegal in Wyoming, the statute contains eight or nine exceptions. But those are so messily worded it is hard for a doctor to interpret them. Which in real time, can have serious consequences."
Tom LubnauSeptember 18, 2024
Rod Miller: The “Nouveaux Elite” And Democracy By The Numbers In The 307
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "A scant 24% of voting-eligible Wyomingites took the time to cast their ballot in America’s Great Experiment in democracy. That mathematically changes the concept of 'one person, one vote' into 'one person, four votes.'"
Rod MillerSeptember 18, 2024
Candy Moulton: Brown’s Park Historian Focuses on Queen Ann Bassett
Columnist Candy Moulton Writes: “Among the outlaws Ann Bassett knew were a few of the young men who were destined be part of the gang that came to be known as the Wild Bunch.”
Candy MoultonSeptember 17, 2024
Clair McFarland: There's No Way My Kid Is Old Enough For A Homecoming Dance
Clair McFarland writes: "He was part of an adventure in which I had no business except as tailor and chauffeur - like my right arm had detached and gone off on its own hero’s journey. Be free, you rogue autonomous portion of me!"
Clair McFarlandSeptember 16, 2024
Dave Simpson: Forget The Election. Let's Go To Dodge.
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, “If you don't love “Gunsmoke” and Marshal Matt Dillon, played by the late James Arness, well, there must be something wrong with you, mister. Get some help.”
Dave SimpsonSeptember 16, 2024
Cassie Craven: Putin Probably Smirked After That Debate
Columnist Cassie Craven writes, "I waited for the cackle to get me in the Halloween spirit but alas, it never came. Vice President Harris had clearly been coached by the Greatest Showman of All Time, President Barack Obama."
Cassie CravenSeptember 15, 2024
Rod Miller: Recollecting Doug !@#%ing Crowe
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "Crowe pulled out the frozen carcass of a muskrat. He blended the rodent with tequila and triple sec into the sixth or seventh pitcher of hooch. Reports vary from 'nobody knew the difference' to 'the dog wouldn’t even touch it.' Draw your own damn conclusion."
Rod MillerSeptember 15, 2024
Bill Sniffin: 50 Years Ago, World’s Space Race Focused On Sagebrush Hills Of Wyoming
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes, "In 1974, a three-man crew of astronauts from the USA and a two-man crew of cosmonauts from the USSR were picked to participate in this pioneering program. But first, they were going to participate in the One Shot Antelope Hunt in Lander."
Bill SniffinSeptember 14, 2024
Joan Barron: The Saga Of State Sen. Cal 'Fast Lane' Taggart
Columnist Joan Barron writes about the Wyoming Legislature’s fight against the 55 mph speed limit that drew the national news media to Cheyenne. And state Sen. Cal 'Fast Lane' Taggart led the way.
Joan BarronSeptember 14, 2024
Tom Lubnau: The Breakup Of The Mountain West Is A Symptom Of A Large Disease
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes: "While it is understandable these schools are jumping from the conference for a bigger payday, it is sad. With the worship of the dollar, we are seeing things more important than money start to vanish – competition, rivalry, loyalty and tradition. And we are worse off for it."
Tom LubnauSeptember 12, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: Halls Of Fame, Sellouts And Good Bathrooms As Football Kicks Off
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, “There was plenty to be happy about in Laramie last weekend, even if the final score didn’t make the list.”
Sally Ann ShurmurSeptember 12, 2024
Rod Miller: Rumors Around the Ol’ Campfire, Part Deux
Columnist Rod Miller writes: “Gossip around the ol’ campfire surmises a sudden vacancy in the Secretary of State’s office, a new gunslinger in town and scorched earth dessert.”
Rod MillerSeptember 12, 2024
Tom Lubnau: A Great Evening In The Black Hills With Starship And Marshall Tucker
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "The surprise of the concert was the ability of 86-year-old David Baldwin to hit all the high notes in the song 'Jane' – a song he wrote. His voice was strong and backup vocals and harmonies tight."
Tom LubnauSeptember 12, 2024
Candy Moulton: Dick Perue -- 73 Years Of Pumping The Press
Columnist Candy Moulton writes, "The number of historical talks and treks Dick Perue has given and led is not known but imagine 70 years of involvement with museums throughout Carbon County and you get an idea of his contributions to Wyoming history.”
Candy MoultonSeptember 10, 2024
Dave Simpson: Cheneys Opt For 'Radical Liberal'
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, "I figured there was nothing Liz Cheney could do to make me regret my three votes for her more than I already did. But, I was wrong. Good luck with those Democrats, Liz. They hated your dad, calling him Darth Vader.''
Dave SimpsonSeptember 09, 2024
Cassie Craven: We Need More Guns, Not Fewer
Columnist Cassie Craven writes, “This isn’t about deer or prepping. This is about free and not. Life or death. Liberty or imprisonment. Eutopia will not come with more ‘gun control.’”
Cassie CravenSeptember 08, 2024
Rod Miller: The Achilles Heel Of The Wyoming Freedom Caucus Is Cowboy Football
Columnist Rod Miller writes: "If the Freedom Caucus wants to trim UW’s DEI budget, then most folks in Wyoming won’t quibble. But they’ll shoot themselves in the foot if their efforts result in Cowboy football becoming a Division II program."
Rod MillerSeptember 08, 2024
Joan Barron: A Year Before College Well Spent
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "I’ll bet your average plumber makes more money than a regular English graduate. And that may be one reason more people than ever are questioning whether college is worth the time and expense."
Joan BarronSeptember 07, 2024
Bill Sniffin: "The Dog Ate My Homework" And More On The Old Farts Clubs
Bill Sniffin writes, “No matter how legitimate, excuses just sound like ‘the dog ate my homework’ to some people.”
Bill SniffinSeptember 07, 2024
Dennis Sun: What Will Food Costs Do Before The Election?
Columnist Dennis Sun writes, "With the general election coming up in a couple of months, the price for food is a big issue. Most people say the high prices are unfair, but they keep rising."
Dennis SunSeptember 06, 2024
Jonathan Lange: Compulsory Content For Preschool Is The Devil’s Playground
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes: “Last year a bill that would lower the age for compulsory school attendance from 7 to 6 years old failed an introductory vote by 7-24. Now, the education lobby wants to compel not only 6-year-olds, but 3-year-olds as well. Parents are wise to be wary.”
Jonathan LangeSeptember 06, 2024
Rod Miller: Tyin’ the Knot – Wyoming Style
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "It is a little-known and under-appreciated fact around the ol’ campfire that I am a man of the cloth, and am ordained to perform weddings, circumcisions and exorcisms. I have officiated at five weddings to date. All five couples are still married and happy together."
Rod MillerSeptember 06, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: Welcome To Laramie, It's Just Different
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, "I would not want to be the Idaho Vandals this week. I think the Pokes are ready to deliver a beatdown. And I think the defense will remember what the hell they are supposed to do."
Sally Ann ShurmurSeptember 05, 2024
Tom Lubnau: Give The Freedom Caucus The Benefit Of The Doubt
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes: "I have learned to trust the collective wisdom of the Wyoming voters. They are the carny operating the ride. I may not understand why the voters made their choices, but I have learned there is a level of wisdom behind the voter’s choice, and to search for what that wisdom is."
Tom LubnauSeptember 04, 2024
Candy Moulton: Thursday Is The Only Time We Can Tell The Postal Service What We Think
Columnist Candy Moulton writes, "“When your local postal manager tells you not to send a letter by certified mail because it will likely get lost in the system, you know the mail delivery in our area just plain stinks. Let’s pack a Zoom meeting this Thursday because the USPS needs to hear what the rural West thinks."
Candy MoultonSeptember 03, 2024
Dave Simpson: The Freedom Caucus Suits Him Fine
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, "'The old cigar club is closed.' So said my crustiest Republican friend from Casper this week, about the results of the Aug. 20th primary election in Wyoming."
Dave SimpsonSeptember 03, 2024
Clair McFarland: Sometimes My Mom Walks In And Sets Me Straight
Clair McFarland writes: "That was when my mom walked in wearing one of her fancy halter top things, carrying a box of black licorice (my favorite) and a sequined purse with a conceal-carry pocket for her pistol — and called out 'Yoo-hoooo! Grandma’s here!'"
Clair McFarlandSeptember 01, 2024
Rod Miller: New Faces Around The Ol’ Campfire
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "Straggling in to take their places around the campfire, our cowboy crew griped about the day they just had. Breaking in a new trailhand is never easy, but today was the first day riding herd for a dozen or so tenderfooted newbies."
Rod MillerSeptember 01, 2024
Joan Barron: Interim Committee Work Dampened By The Prospect Of New Legislative Leadership
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "The Freedom Caucus has openly stated its status as anti-government, anti-tax, anti-spending and other antis as well. All these antis can have a paralyzing influence on legislative business."
Joan BarronSeptember 01, 2024
Bill Sniffin: Does Each Wyoming Town Have Its ‘9 Old Men’ Who Think They Run It?
Bill Sniffin writes: “In my travels, I am always looking for these coffee groups. They can be a true fountain of information and misinformation. This is where all the good news stories bubble up from."
Bill SniffinAugust 31, 2024
Dennis Sun: Sheep Are In
Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "Sheep have always been a vital industry in the West, even though numbers have been dropping over the years. Despite all of the hurdles of raising sheep, there is still a strong interest in them."
Dennis SunAugust 30, 2024
Jonathan Lange: Reflections On A Half-Million Acres Of Fire
Jonathan Lange writes: "A spontaneous government arose across county and state lines because people had an urgent task to accomplish. Should anyone attempt to hijack its power for personal gain, he or she would find that it dissolves as quickly as it arose."
Jonathan LangeAugust 30, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: When It Comes To Moms, We Hit The Jackpot
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, "I’d love to introduce those who don’t already know her to my mom, who turns 93 on Saturday. In the NFL, she earned the reputation as the real one, still cleaning her own house, still cooking every night for her beloved Fritz."
Sally Ann ShurmurAugust 29, 2024
Tom Lubnau: How To Spot Artificial Intelligence Bots And Paid Political Operatives On Social Media
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "Social media is full of cowardly trolls who set up fake profiles and comment, seemingly anonymously, to say what they don’t have the courage to say in person."
Tom LubnauAugust 28, 2024
Rod Miller: Peevish Populace Poses Problem for Puzzled Politicians
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "As the dust settles over the shifted tectonics of Wyoming politics after the primary, one factor at play in the election stands out to me: voters in Wyoming are pissed."
Rod MillerAugust 28, 2024
Candy Moulton: Miriam Baggott -- An Englishwoman Paves The Way For Homesteaders
Columnist Candy Moulton writes: “Miriam Baggott and her young daughter often fled their home and hid in the willows when they had reports of Indians roaming in the area. Other times Miriam hung quilts over the cabin windows so their lantern light would not be seen from a distance.”
Candy MoultonAugust 27, 2024
Dave Simpson: Nobody Told Us We're Too Old
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, "Can two guys with a combined age of 146 years build a house high in the mountains of Wyoming? All by themselves? Without heavy equipment? Jury's still out on that."
Dave SimpsonAugust 26, 2024
Rod Miller: Sam Western’s “The Spirit of 1889” – Essential Reading in The Big Empty
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "Wyoming's constitution is so progressive that it collectivized resources like water and wildlife, and preserved them in public hands. Today’s Republicans would hoot and holler at 1889’s GOP and call them socialist at best and Chinese Communists at worst."
Rod MillerAugust 25, 2024
Aaron Turpen: Common Car Myths vs Reality
Aaron Turpen writes, "A while back, I wrote about gas saving tips, debunking some of the common misconceptions and validating a few others. Now let’s look at some other automotive myths and see if they have any footing in reality."
Aaron TurpenAugust 25, 2024
Joan Barron: The Two Party Solution
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "The Wyoming Republican Party’s party’s center — the moderates, the traditionalists — is in danger of becoming irrelevant. Their power is being siphoned away by the party’s hard right wing."
Joan BarronAugust 24, 2024
Bill Sniffin: So Many Big Little Stories Came Out Of 2024 Primary
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “Our 2024 Republican primary campaign was a barn-burner and full of meanness and hate. Yes, folks, politics in Wyoming, once again, is not political, it is personal.”
Bill SniffinAugust 24, 2024
Jonathan Lange: Thankfully, Two-Party Politics Has Returned To Wyoming
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes, "The increasingly lopsided ratio of Democrats to Republicans has effectively turned Wyoming into an unhealthy one-party state. The emergence of two clear caucuses within the dominant party helps the voter make an informed choice."
Jonathan LangeAugust 23, 2024
Dennis Sun: Slow And Even Slower
Columnist Dennis Sun writes, "Kamala Harris wants to have new price controls on food and is focusing on meat, especially beef. Her talk set off alarms in the cattle and beef business – futures dropped suddenly and live cattle prices dropped as well."
Dennis SunAugust 23, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: Fanning The Flames, And Not Just Fire
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, "Turns out, you can get redder than red. And the moderates look left, and the right looks middle. But guess what? It’s what the people who voted want, pundits and the media be damned."
Sally Ann ShurmurAugust 22, 2024
Tom Lubnau: Identifying The Techniques Politicians Use To Dodge Tough Questions
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "Since the primary election is over, we should evaluate the political deflection techniques used by candidates in the heat of the election. A deflection technique is a way to redirect attention away from the real topic."
Tom LubnauAugust 21, 2024
Rod Miller: The Wyoming Freedom Caucus Wins Some Big Pots
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "When the voters dealt the river card in Tuesday’s primary election, the Wyoming Freedom Caucus hit some inside straights and walked off with a lot of chips. All the bluffs and tells of the game were over."
Rod MillerAugust 21, 2024
Candy Moulton: Menor’s Ferry – This Time Of Year Huckleberries Were The Toll To Cross The Snake River
Candy Moulton writes: “During the wild berry season in late summer, Bill Menor charged ‘huckleberry rates’ to local people wanting to cross the Snake River in Jackson Hole on his ferry. A bucket of berries was good for a one-way ride over the river.”
Candy MoultonAugust 20, 2024
Dave Simpson: Friends Don't Let Friends Vote Democrat
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, "I can't figure out how anyone could vote for these Republican Lite, Rockefeller Republican, milquetoast, go-along-to get-along Republicans. These it-can't-happen-here, ersatz Republicans who vote with Democrats, and some even used to BE Democrats."
Dave SimpsonAugust 19, 2024
Rod Miller: A Brief Refresher Course On Wolf Reintroduction In The Big Empty
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "Over beverages at the Buckhorn, my old amigo Walt Gasson and I reminisced about the 'return' of wolves to Yellowstone. We agreed that it is a sordid tale of western love and betrayal. All it lacks is a high noon shootout on a dusty street."
Rod MillerAugust 18, 2024
Joan Barron: No More Ballots In Shoeboxes, Please
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "It appears Wyoming voters will not be confronted with hand-counted ballots this year. That fate was a possibility for a spell there when Republicans of the hard right variety questioned the validity of pre-election balloting tests..."
Joan BarronAugust 17, 2024
Bill Sniffin: Two Years Ago, Wyoming Was Center Of The Political Universe
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “Two years ago, because of the feud between Liz Cheney and former President Donald Trump, the whole world descended on the Cowboy State to see how her reelection race would turn out.”
Bill SniffinAugust 17, 2024
Jonathan Lange: How To Know Where Candidates Got Their Money And Who's Funding Their Campaigns
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes, "For weeks, candidates have been making claims and counterclaims of “dark money” and out-of-state-interest groups backing their opponents. Now, voters have the means available to judge for themselves."
Jonathan LangeAugust 16, 2024
Dennis Sun: Some Good News
Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "A new study challenges outdated information and management principles related to livestock grazing in the sagebrush steppe and how it was previously thought to negatively impact these ecosystems. Instead, the study saw desirable outcomes..."
Dennis SunAugust 16, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: Oh Summer, We Hardly Knew Ya
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, "There is no more optimistic place on the face of the earth than a Friday night in Laramie before game day. So long summer. My gold wardrobe is clean and ready."
Sally Ann ShurmurAugust 15, 2024
Tom Lubnau: The Season Of The Absurd Campaign Advertisement Is Upon Us
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "Perhaps the most extreme example of the outrageous campaigning is calling House Speaker Albert Sommers a Chinese Communist."
Tom LubnauAugust 14, 2024
Candy Moulton: Famed John Brown Family Camped Here
Columnist Candy Moulton writes, "When Janelle Malony takes to the stage to talk about her historical research, visitors are in for a true history lesson. Her pioneer family survived the Platte River Raid of 1864 with the families of Wyatt Earp and pre-Civil War abolitionist John Brown."
Candy MoultonAugust 13, 2024
Dave Simpson: They 'Doth Protest Too Much, Methinks'
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, "Plenty of opinions are flying around, as tends to happen in elections. But it strikes me as desperation to pin all this anger on the Freedom Caucus."
Dave SimpsonAugust 12, 2024
Clair McFarland: My Teen Says Crocs Are 'Stylish'
Clair McFarland writes, "We live in the sage country. No kid should ramble around these hills with holes in his shoes. Just put out an entry mat for the ticks, I guess.”
Clair McFarlandAugust 11, 2024
Rod Miller: Lines Drawn in Wyoming Soil Should Not Be Crossed
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "Two examples of folks crossing a line in Wyoming and suffering for it popped up lately. I view this as very heartening. Its important to know that lines still mean something in a society where it seems that anything goes."
Rod MillerAugust 11, 2024
Aaron Turpen: 2024 Honda Passport Is A Ticket To 2-Row SUV Goodness
Automotive columnist Aaron Turpen writes, “I’m mostly positive about the 2024 Passport. I think Honda hit a mark with this one and it doesn’t get the attention it should. It’s a strong contender in a competitive market.”
Aaron TurpenAugust 10, 2024
Bill Sniffin: Here Is A True Saying: ‘In Wyoming, Politics Is Not Political. It Is Personal’
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “Elections can be difficult times because of personal relationships. You can find yourself being friends with both candidates. Especially when the races turn nasty, it is truly unpleasant."
Bill SniffinAugust 10, 2024
Joan Barron: A Vietnam War Protestor’s Trial in Cheyenne
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "Vietnam War protestor Randy Kehler died late last month at age 80 at his home in Massachusetts. His obituary in the New York Times makes no mention of the Wyoming federal court case or of his residence in Encampment."
Joan BarronAugust 10, 2024
Dennis Sun: It's Wyoming State Fair Time!
Ag columnist Dennis Sun writes, "The Wyoming State Fair has been around since 1905, and its future looks brighter than ever. Wyoming is fortunate to have a state fair with our boom and bust economy. There are a lot of states that have given up on having a state fair for one reason or another."
Dennis SunAugust 09, 2024
Jonathan Lange: Your Noble Approach To Politics Can Restore Its Beauty
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes, "Partisan harping against the transgressions of others merely adds to the mudslinging. Removing the speck from your brother’s eye should not be a campaign strategy."
Jonathan LangeAugust 09, 2024
Sally Ann Shurmur: What Is Home?
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, "Sixteen years ago this week, I put the last few things in my beloved girl truck, grabbed Frank the darling dog and closed the 30-year chapter of living in Casper."
Sally Ann ShurmurAugust 08, 2024
Tom Lubnau: If We Vote For Candidates In Bed With Liars, We Get What We Deserve
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "Candidates who remain silent while knowing lies are perpetuated about their opposition are committing lies of omission. They do not care about the integrity of the system. They do not care about truth. They only care about power."
Tom LubnauAugust 07, 2024
Candy Moulton: Filming the West – Diverse Wyoming Stories
Columnist Candy Moulton writes, " In 15 years of conflict in Iraq, the United States had 4,541 fatalities. In 2016 alone, there were 5,712 Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women cases reported in the United States. Yet many people have no idea there was even one such case."
Candy MoultonAugust 06, 2024
Dave Simpson: Our Guys Aren't On Gordon's List
Columnist Dave Simpson writes, "I agree with folks who suggest using Gov. Gordon's endorsement list as a guide on who NOT to vote for.”
Dave SimpsonAugust 05, 2024
Joan Barron: Radical Tax Reform Bill Could Be A Legislative Hammer
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "The state is always bumping up against the constitutional dictate of equal and uniform whether it’s taxes or schools. How can you have a uniform and equal form of taxation that affects Teton, Laramie and Niobrara Counties the same?"
Joan BarronAugust 04, 2024
Rod Miller: Political Statesmanship In The Big Empty
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "An incredibly graceful act of political statesmanship occurred in Wyoming the other day, and we all should know about it. And we should all think about it."
Rod MillerAugust 04, 2024
Bill Sniffin: Wyoming Politics Featuring Flyers, Candy Bars, And The One And Done Club
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes: “We gave away 10,000 candy bars. I was the only candidate in history who gained weight during his campaign!”
Bill SniffinAugust 03, 2024