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December 11th 2025 |

Photo – Bigfoot 99 file photo

Hanna officials say they’re disappointed with the way the Carbon County Library Board has treated the town.

December 1st, 2025, was the 100th anniversary of the Carbon County Library System. To mark the occasion, the Library Board has arranged celebration events at the individual branches. The Hanna Library is hosting its event tomorrow, December 12th.

At Tuesday’s Hanna Town Council meeting, Clerk Vivian Gonzales explained that the governing body wasn’t given advance notice of the centennial celebration. Clerk Gonzales said she learned about the event that day, adding that the Library Board has asked Mayor Charlie George to attend.

Recent property tax relief bills have slashed the amount of tax revenue local governments received this fiscal year. As a result, the Carbon County Library System saw a 53% reduction in county funding, resulting in fewer operating hours at every branch.

Due to the decline in funding, the Library Board has repeatedly discussed the possibility of closing the Hanna and Medicine Bow branches.

Both branches were originally slated to close in September. Each branch received a reprieve through grants from Rocky Mountain Power, the Wyoming Intertie Community Investment Program and from local contributions. The donations extended the tentative closing dates for both branches until next month.

Speaking at Tuesday’s town council meeting, Treasurer Ann Calvert said she believed that the Hanna Library was not going to be included in the centennial celebrations because of the impending closure.

Clerk Gonzales agreed, saying that Hanna and Medicine Bow representatives attended a previous Library Board meeting, prompting the two branches to be included in the event schedule. Councilman Sam Sikes recommended using the celebration money to continue funding the library.

Mayor Charlie George expressed frustration that the Library Board appeared to overlook the town when planning the centennial events.

Later in the meeting, the governing body returned to the topic of the town’s library. Mayor George said the council must decide how to proceed if the Library Board cuts funding for Hanna’s branch. The mayor said the town is already contributing more than it should for a service only available to public for a handful of hours each week.

The town also pays the full cost of water, sewer, and garbage service.

Treasurer Calvert again said that the library board was not going to include the town’s library in the centennial celebrations due to the planned closure. The treasurer added that she asked why the Hanna and Medicine Bow branches were not adequately funded under the current fiscal year’s budget but did not receive a definitive answer.

Treasurer Calvert said the Hanna Library appears destined to close if the town doesn’t assume ownership of the facility. Councilman David Felix said the Library Board has not given the town accurate operational costs or attendance figures, essential details the town would need if it were to take over the branch.

Mayor George said the unfortunate reality is that Hanna lost revenue from this year’s property tax relief bills passed by the Wyoming Legislature,  leaving the town unable to fund the library.

Mayor George expressed his support for the town owning the library, but warned that the governing body must consider the financial impact before making any decision.

Treasurer Calvert said the town needs to know exactly how much money it costs to operate the library. This is the needed information that the Library Board has not provided.

Councilwoman Ellen Freeman said a Library Board representative attended a recent Carbon County Council of Governments meeting and reported to COG that labor makes up the most of the Library System’s spending. When pressed to use volunteers, Councilwoman Freeman said the Library Board representative resisted.

According to information provided by the Board of Carbon County Commissioners, staffing accounts for 79% of the Library System’s budget.

Mayor George said the governing body needs detailed financial information from the Library Board before deciding whether to assume ownership of the branch.

The Hanna Library’s 100th anniversary event is tomorrow, December 12th, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

The post Hanna Library Hosts 100th Anniversary Celebration December 12th first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

December 11th 2025 |

Photo – CC Museum Poster

Carbon County Museum Director Tom Mensik is inviting the public to what is described as a “bigger, better Christmas event” this weekend.

This Saturday, December 13th, the Carbon County Museum is hosting its annual Christmas celebration. Museum Director Tom Mensik said this weekend’s event will include the usual activities, along with new games and festive decorations throughout the building.

The new games include a Price Is Right-style Plinko board, Santa Bowling with a foam ball launcher, and a family‑friendly version of beer pong called Santa Pong, which uses fruit punch instead of alcohol. Mensik explained that the new games will serve as a fundraiser, with participants required to purchase tickets to play. However, unlike a traditional carnival, every player will win a prize.

The cookie and ornament decorating will still be free.

In addition to the new games, the Carbon County Museum will offer a selfie station where attendees can take photos in front of the Christmas lights. Mensik said unfortunately, Santa was unable to attend this weekend’s event on such short notice.

Mensik said attendees can also view the museum’s new vintage Christmas ornament exhibit. The museum director explained that most of the ornaments were handmade by Marjorie Daley, wife of prominent sheep rancher John Richard Daley.

The classic ornament display will remain open until after New Year’s Day.

The Carbon County Museum’s Winter Wonderland Carnival is this Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free, but tickets are required to play the new games.

The post Carbon County Museum’s Christmas Carnival December 13th first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

December 11th 2025 |

Photo – Bigfoot 99 File Photo

Memorial Hospital of Carbon County is reminding Medicare recipients that free wellness screenings are available in Rawlins and Saratoga.

University of Wyoming nurse practitioner student Chanel Thrasher is completing her clinical training at Memorial Hospital of Carbon County. While serving in Saratoga, Thrasher said Dr. Kristel Lessard observed that many Medicare recipients were not taking advantage of their free annual wellness checks. In response, Thrasher began an initiative to inform residents about the no-cost screenings.

Medicare offers recipients free annual wellness visits. Thrasher said the screenings are an important way to detect serious health problems, such as diabetes and cancer, before they become more difficult to treat.

Medicare wellness visits are offered at both the Saratoga and Rawlins clinics. Thrasher said that during a wellness visit, the provider reviews the patient’s medical history and current medications.

Depending on what the provider determines during the visit, they may recommend additional tests.

Thrasher clarified what happens during a Medicare wellness visit. It is not an examination, but simply a conversation with the provider about preventive screening. Memorial Hospital Chief Operating Officer Stephanie Hinkle added that some Medicare patients may be missing out on the free services because they do not fully understand what a wellness visit involves.

Nurse practitioner student Thrasher has launched an outreach campaign to inform Carbon County residents about the no‑cost screenings. Thrasher said she is working with Memorial Hospital clinic staff and local media to spread the word.

Thrasher encouraged Medicare recipients to call the Platte Valley Health Center or Rawlins Family Practice Clinic to schedule a free wellness check.

Chief Operating Officer Hinkle said that Thrasher is performing her clinical studies at Memorial Hospital through a partnership with the University of Wyoming. Hinkle added that the Rawlins hospital coordinates with various education programs, from high school through college, to provide hands-on clinical training for students, a service not available in all areas of the state.

Nurse practitioner student Thrasher concluded by saying that Medicare wellness visits are a free way to catch health problems early, with a focus on prevention and a personalized care plan.

The post MHCC Clinics Offer Medicare Wellness Visits first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Wednesday, DECEMBER 10, 2025 |

Photo – Badge on county map – Bigfoot99 file photo

Carbon County Sheriff Alex Bakken recognized a deputy for going above and beyond to assist his fellow officers.

At the December 2nd Board of Carbon County Commissioners meeting, Sheriff Alex Bakken announced that he had written a letter of commendation for Deputy Jason Black. Sheriff Bakken explained that while shopping in Casper, Deputy Black stepped in to help Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper Kolton Carbon in arresting two uncooperative suspects during a traffic stop.

According to court records, Trooper Carbon initiated a traffic stop on a speeding 2025 Jeep Compass on Highway 258 in Casper. The vehicle also had an expired temporary license plate.

After stopping, Trooper Carbon removed the driver, an unidentified minor, and cited the individual for underage possession of nicotine, speeding, and operating without registration.

One of the vehicle’s passengers, 18‑year‑old Bryson Cross of Sheridan, tried to flee in the SUV. As Trooper Carbon fought with the suspect, Deputy Black arrived to assist. With Black’s help, Cross was taken into custody and charged with possession of a controlled substance, driving under the influence, interference with a peace officer, and reckless endangering.

At the December 2nd County Commissioners meeting, Sheriff Bakken added that a handgun was found in the vehicle and that both occupants had lengthy criminal records. The sheriff thanked Deputy Black for his bravery on that day.

Deputy Black’s letter of commendation will be added to his personnel file, providing a permanent record of his achievement and serving as an inspiration to others.

The post Deputy Recognized for Assisting WHP While Off Duty first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Wednesday, DECEMBER 10, 2025 |

Photo – Town of Medicine Bow website – Courtesy Town of Medicine Bow

If you want a professional website, you have to turn to professionals who do that kind of work for a living. Medicine Bow town officials are just learning this lesson and explore different options.

Over the summer, officials in Medicine Bow discovered that no current town employees were able to update or modify the official Medicine Bow website, medicinebow.org. Councilwoman Crystal Mayfield suggested partnering with H-E-M High School to have students design a new website, providing them with real-world experience.

The governing body approved Mayfield’s plan and waited to hear back from H‑E‑M business and computer teacher Stephanie Scott, who had initially expressed interest in the idea. However, it took Scott four months to provide her official response.

During Monday evening’s Medicine Bow Town Council meeting, Councilwoman Mayfield announced that the H‑E‑M computer teacher doesn’t believe her students are qualified to build a new website. Even if an agreement could be reached, the school would require payment.

Councilwoman Mayfield said the town could wait for Carbon County School District Two officials to discuss the matter further. Otherwise, the governing body should come up with an alternative plan.

Medicine Bow Clerk and Treasurer Karen Heath said Carbon County Comet reporter Dana Davis had offered to design a new website. Responding to a question from Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer, Treasurer Heath said the town does not currently have funds to pay someone for the work. However, in light of Councilwoman Mayfield’s news, the money will have to be found.

Councilwoman Mayfield recommended using a design template program, such as Squarespace or Wix, to build a new website. The councilwoman explained that once operational, updating the site is a simple process.

Mayor Justin George said notices could be posted around town, asking residents with web design experience to help.

Town Attorney Cameron Smith suggested contacting the Carbon County Visitors Council for a grant to fund the website design, adding that the site would serve as a tool to attract tourists to the area. Mayor George said the governing body should wait to make a decision until they get a response from the Visitors Council and learn how much the template programs will cost.

Councilman Lee Cook also recommended reaching out to nearby towns, such as Hanna, to learn how they manage their websites. Mayor George left the matter tabled until the governing body has more information.

The post Medicine Bow Officials Explore New Options for Website Design first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Wednesday, DECEMBER 10, 2025 |

Photo – Hobo Hot Pools – Courtesy Town of Saratoga

The Platte Valley Arts Council is inviting artists to design a history‑themed mural for Saratoga’s Hobo Hot Springs.

Governor Mark Gordon established the Wyoming Semi Quincentennial Planning Task Force to distribute grants for local organizations to fund their specific projects and initiatives related to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Platte Valley Arts Council applied for a grant to design and install of a metal relief sculpture or mural at Saratoga’s historic mineral hot springs. Arts Council President Stacy Crimmins explained that, to qualify, the project must incorporate a historical theme. Crimmins said her vision is for the Hobo Hot Springs piece to highlight the area’s unique past.

The Platte Valley Arts Council is seeking artists to design an eight‑by‑20‑foot relief sculpture for the wall separating the hot springs from the municipal pool. Council President Stacy Crimmins said heat and steam will trigger chemical reactions that naturally add color to the piece.

The Town of Saratoga recently signed a memorandum of understanding allowing the mural to be installed at the hot springs, with the Arts Council responsible for care and maintenance.

While the piece is often described as a mural, Crimmins said it will more closely resemble a flat sculpture, where layers of different metals will create a scene from local history.

Crimmins said the Arts Council is looking for local artists to design and create the mural. However, due to the technical nature of the piece, the Arts Council will accept submissions from across the country.

The Platte Valley Arts Council has allocated $25,000 for the Hobo Hot Springs mural project. If a standout design exceeds that amount, Crimmins said the Arts Council may raise the limit.

In addition to the mural, the Platte Valley Arts Council is collaborating with local historian Dick Perue to develop a history of the area for its website.

Artists are encouraged to visit www.plattevalleyarts.com and click on the “Call for Artist Proposals” link for details about the project. Design proposals are due by January 30th, with the public unveiling scheduled for the Fourth of July.

The post Platte Valley Arts Council Looking for Artists first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Tuesday, DECEMBER 9, 2025 |

Photo – Christmas Lights – Bigfoot99 file photo

A Rawlins dance instructor is organizing the city’s Christmas parade this year.

Rawlins in Motion dance studio owner Rebecca Iacovetto has taken responsibility for organizing the city’s Christmas parade. Dubbed the Starlight Christmas Parade 2025, the event will take place this Wednesday, December 10th at 6:00 p.m.

Speaking at the December 2nd Rawlins City Council Meeting, Interim City Manager Matt Hall described the parade route. Hall said that after the parade, Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be serving hot chocolate at the Historic Depot, located at 400 West Front Street.

Back in August, the Rawlins City Council discussed who should take charge of this year’s Christmas parade. Mayor Jacquelin Wells said the city organized last year’s parade on short notice after the Chamber of Commerce disbanded. City officials were concerned about the cost of hosting the holiday event.

Rawlins Downtown Development Authority Executive Director Pam Thayer reported that on August 1st, Rawlins in Motion owner Rebecca Iacovetto said she may be willing to put on future Christmas displays.

Iacovetto honored her pledge by organizing this year’s event.

The 2025 Rawlins Starlight Christmas Parade is this Wednesday, December 10th, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The parade route begins on 5th Street, where participants will proceed south to Cedar Street before turning east onto 4th and continuing south to the Historic Depot. The theme of this year’s event is “Elf on the Shelf,” featuring family‑friendly pranks for everyone to enjoy.

The post Rawlins Christmas Parade This Wednesday first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Tuesday, DECEMBER 9, 2025 |

Photo – Rawlins Library – Bigfoot99 file photo

The Carbon County Library System is asking residents to contribute items for time capsules.

December 1st marked the Carbon County Library System’s 100th anniversary. In 1925, the Board of County Commissioners established the first official library in Rawlins. Since then, the system has expanded to seven branches serving nearly every municipality in the county.

As part of the centennial celebrations, each branch is collecting items to be placed inside a time capsule. The original plan was to have the capsules ready for the anniversaries. However, speaking at the December 4th Medicine Bow Library event, Interim Library Director Jenita Calton said low participation has postponed the time capsule dedications to National Library Week, April 19th through the 25th.

The Carbon County Library Foundation provided each of the seven branches with its own 13.4‑inch tall stainless steel time capsule.

Calton said the Library System will accept a wide range of items unique to each town, including newspaper clippings, photographs, and handicrafts. The interim director added that she hopes the time capsules will be filled to capacity by next April.

Once filled, Calton said each branch will choose where to place its time capsule. However, the interim director advised against burying it. Instead, local librarians are encouraged to put the capsule on display.

Calton said the Library System has not set a date to open the time capsules, leaving future librarians to decide when they will be unsealed.

The interim library director thanked the Carbon County Library Foundation for funding the 100th anniversary celebrations.

The post Library System Asks Residents for Time-Capsule Items first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Tuesday, DECEMBER 9, 2025 |

Photo – Rawlins City Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo

The Rawlins city clerk will now handle 24‑hour catering permit applications, following the same procedure used by Carbon County officials.

As reported by Bigfoot99, the Rawlins City Council began reviewing an ordinance change in October that would let the city clerk approve or deny 24‑hour malt beverage and catering permits.

At the December 2nd meeting, a resolution was introduced to formally delegate that authority to the clerk.

City Attorney Pinita Maberry‑Nave explained that state law gives municipalities control over liquor licenses. Attorney Maberry-Nave said under current regulations, all permit applications must come before the governing body.

Attorney Maberry-Nave said the resolution under consideration will allow the city clerk to handle all catering permit requests without the City Council needing to hear the matter.

The city attorney added that under the new regulations, applicants must submit their permits at least 72 hours before a scheduled event to give Clerk Lynn Shearer enough time to thoroughly review the application.

Councilman Steve Sanger originally proposed the idea. Speaking at the December 2nd meeting, Councilman Sanger said he was motivated by a 15‑year‑old ordinance that established the same process for the county.

At times, the governing body was required to hold special meetings just to hear a malt beverage or catering permit application. Councilman Sanger said the resolution will make the permitting process easier and faster by taking the responsibility off the council.

Vice Mayor Darril Garner asked what would happen if a liquor license holder received a catering permit but was unable to attend the event on short notice.

The city attorney said such an incident has happened before in Rawlins. Under such a circumstance, the attorney explained that state law gives the clerk authority to approve or deny a replacement without involving the governing body.

The resolution limits liquor license holders to twelve malt beverage and twenty-four catering permits in a single year. Additionally, all applications must be reviewed by the City Manager and Chief of Police to ensure the applicant is in compliance with city regulations.

The Rawlins City Council unanimously voted to delegate authority over 24‑hour malt beverage and catering permits to the city clerk’s office.

The post Rawlins City Clerk Now Handles 24-Hour Catering Permits first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Tuesday, DECEMBER 9, 2025 |

Photo – Wind Turbines – Bigfoot99 file photo

A Converse County judge, on Friday, delivered an upset ruling for controversial wind lease that was not intended to connect to the electric grid.

On Friday, December 5th, Wyoming District Court Judge F. Scott Peasley reversed the State Board of Land Commissioners’ decision dated April 3rd to approve a wind energy project slated near Glenrock.

The Pronghorn 2 H2 Project is a large-scale wind and hydrogen initiative spanning 46,000 acres of state and private lands. The project was expected to include up to 45 turbines with a capacity of up to 110 MW, though some sources reference a larger 302.5-megawatt wind project. According to the developer, the wind energy would produce “green hydrogen” that would be synthesized into aviation fuel for Denver International Airport.

The state board of land commissioners, including the Governor, Secretary of State, Auditor, Treasurer, and Superintendent of Public Instruction, voted this year to approve the project.

Converse County rancher Mike Stephens, a third-generation rancher, filed a lawsuit against SLIB, challenging both the legality of the lease and the process by which it was approved.

On Friday, State District Court Judge Scott Peasley ruled to strike down the state’s approval of the wind farm lease, effectively halting the project’s progress at that stage.

Secretary of State Gray released a statement on Monday saying that he applauds the court’s decision.

According to the plans for the project, the 14 turbines would have been placed on state lands. The hydrogen plant would have been built on private land. None of the electricity produced by wind power on public lands would have entered the grid.

Public objections to the operation cited impacts to recreation, water resources, wildlife, environmental, viewshed disruption and decreased home values.

Secretary Gray was the only member of the board to vote against approval of the project.

The post Judge Overrules SLIB Decision to Lease Land for Wind Energy first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.