Bigfoot99 News - Bigfoot 99 Radio

Wednesday, September 3, 2025  |

Photo – Hanna Elementary School – by Matt Copeland Bigfoot99

Students at Hanna Elementary School are being offered a unique opportunity.

Last week, Hanna Elementary School Principal Jackie Jones called a mandatory meeting for all fifth and sixth grade students and their parents. The purpose of the meeting was kept a secret.

Principal Jones told Bigfoot 99 that successful fundraising efforts and a generous grant from the Carbon County School District Two Recreation Board have given all fifth and sixth grade Hanna Elementary School students the chance to visit Yellowstone National Park later this month.

The four-day excursion begins on Sunday, September 28th with a field trip to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody. On the second day, students will visit Sylvan Lake, Mud Volcano, and the upper and lower falls of the Yellowstone River. Principal Jones said she is especially excited to bring the group to the Canyon Visitor Center during that portion of the trip.

On the third day, students will visit Mammoth Hot Springs and, if time allows, explore Lamar Valley and Slough Creek, two of Yellowstone’s most well-known wildlife viewing areas. Principal Jones said on the final day, students will witness an eruption of Old Faithful.

Old Faithful erupts roughly every 60 to 110 minutes.

The group will leave Yellowstone National Park by the south entrance, providing students with a view of the Teton Mountain Range.

Although the trip offers plenty of sightseeing, Principal Jones emphasized that it’s not just for fun. The excursion will serve as a hands-on learning experience.

None of the 21 fifth and sixth graders are automatically eligible to go on the Yellowstone trip. Principal Jones said students must meet certain behavioral and academic expectations to be invited.

Additionally, students with more than two unexcused absences will be excluded from the trip.

The school is asking parents and guardians to pay $35 per student. Principal Jones said students whose families can’t afford the admission fee will have an opportunity to earn their way, adding that she wants the trip to instill valuable life lessons.

Principal Jones said a visit to Yellowstone National Park can be a life-changing experience, and she hopes to share that opportunity with the Hanna Elementary School students.

The post Unique Opportunity Can Be Earned by Hanna Elementary Students first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Tuesday, September 2, 2025  |

The topic of Wyoming water, from current weather conditions to the forecast for pending litigation with downstream states in the Colorado River Basin, were discussed last Thursday during a legislative committee meeting.

The Joint Agriculture, State and Public Lands, and Water Resources Committee met in Casper. Representative Bob Davis of Baggs is a house member. Republican John Winter of Cody chaired the joint panel last week with Senator Bob Ide of Casper. The joint hearing was held at Casper College.

The Wyoming State Deputy Engineer, Jack Morey, provided the committee with an overview of his agency’s work and the hot topics.

At the top of the list was the condition of dams in the state. According to Morey, almost half of the dams in Wyoming – 41% — are in poor condition. Of the 97 dams that are rated in poor condition, the U.S. government owns 29 of them, the state owns two, and the remainder are privately owned—either by individuals or companies. Morey summed it up.

Reservoirs are an issue in some parts of Wyoming. An ongoing lack in water supply is the issue in other areas, including the Platte Valley. The cool, wetter weather late last week and into the weekend was welcome. The hot, dry weather this summer has been felt across the state.

Morey said the water agency has 17 calls for regulation now in Division 1, here in southeast Wyoming.

Water conservation and partnerships at the local level and the interstate level dominated much of the meeting from here, starting with what’s happening in Carbon County.

Draft legislation is likely to come next year from the meetings held across southern Wyoming.

Deputy State Engineer Morey also discussed an interim topic that he advised lawmakers will be seeing during the session next year. It involves developing a pilot water conservation program for the Green River and Little Snake River Basins.

The discussion then turned to the pressure Wyoming is receiving from downstream users on the Colorado River. The tug of war could wind up in court.

Representative Pepper Ottman, of Fremont County, was warmly candid in her welcome to Deputy Director Morey.

The Fremont County representative then asked how some communities in the state are growing despite the concern about water.

Wyoming’s Supervising Attorney General, Christopher Brown, then handled additional questions. Brown is a senior attorney who specifically represents the Wyoming State Engineer’s Office and is responsible for advising on all water-related issues across the state, including interstate river compacts like those associated with the Colorado River.

Brown said the state believes it is operating within the law. States downstream disagree, and processes are in place to guide the way, even through the courts if necessary. The water boss called them “pinch spots,” where trouble is waiting along the Colorado River.

The state is working with other states to develop, what the state attorney called, “consensus agreements.”

He described the solutions as striving to be flexible with built-in adjustment to changes in the natural world.

He used the city of Laramie as a reason to avoid “binary solutions.” Laramie bought a ranch to use the water rights.

Water demand in the lower basin states consistently exceeds supply, with the Lower Basin using an average of 1.2 million acre-feet more annually than it receives, leading to a long-term deficit that threatens water security.

They’re looking at headwater states like Wyoming for more water as negotiators work against the clock to agree on a new water sharing plan after the current plan expires at the end of 2026.

The states have until November 11th to tell the federal government whether they will have a deal and until February 14th to submit a detailed plan.

The post Wyoming Water Concerns Discussed During Legislative Committee Meeting first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Tuesday, September 2, 2025  |

Photo – Two pets available for adoption – Courtesy Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter

Dogs and cats at the Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter are hoping to find their “forever homes.”

The Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter is home to 16 dogs and 19 cats and kittens. Rawlins Police Lieutenant Daria Hooper has requested a spotlight for Apollo, a three-year-old Brittany Spaniel and Saint Bernard mix who graduated from the Cage to Save Program, where inmates at the Wyoming State Penitentiary train dogs in basic obedience. Lieutenant Hooper recommended bringing your children and other dogs to the shelter to ensure Apollo shows no signs of aggression.

Potential adopters may foster Apollo for a few weeks before finalizing the placement. Lieutenant Hooper said in her experience, dogs tend to behave more aggressively in the shelter than they do in a person’s home.

Next, Lieutenant Hooper asked to highlight an overweight six-year-old tabby cat named Zelda. The Police Lieutenant said Zelda is affectionate, but only on her own terms.

Lieutenant Hooper said that, due to Zelda’s weight, the cat will require daily brushing to assist with grooming.

The City of Rawlins runs the Rochelle Animal Shelter, with a majority of the animals coming from the city itself. However, Lieutenant Hooper said Rawlins has agreements to house stray animals from Sinclair, Hanna, and Saratoga. The Police Lieutenant said stray dogs are typically reunited with their owners, while cats often remain at the shelter.

Lieutenant Hooper said the city is currently searching for an Animal Control Officer, adding that experience isn’t required. The most important qualification is a passion for helping animals.

The Animal Control Officer job listing can be found at the following link: https://rawlinswy.isolvedhire.com/jobs/1240173

Lieutenant Hooper said the Rochelle Animal Shelter is in need of pet treats and bedding. Additionally, all financial contributions go directly toward medical care for the animals.

Anyone interested in adopting an animal must complete a pre-adoption form. Lieutenant Hooper said after a verification process and payment, individuals can take their new pet home.

For more information about adoption, volunteering, or fostering, contact the Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter at 328-4534. The shelter is open from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The post Two Pets are Ready for Adoption in Rawlins first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Thursday, AUGUST 28, 2025  |

Photo – Randy Flemig – Courtesy City of Rawlins

The City of Rawlins has a new Interim Recreation Director.

Earlier this week, the city officials announced the Rawlins Family Recreation Center Supervisor Randy Flemig was chosen to serve as the Interim Recreation Director.

Flemig has worked in the city’s Recreation Department since April of 2021 and was awarded the 2024 Employee of the Fourth Quarter for “going above and beyond” to improve recreation offerings in the city.

Flemig explained to Bigfoot99 that his role as Recreation Director of Rawlins involves overseeing all the city’s recreation activities, both indoor and outdoor.

Flemig has been performing the duties of Recreation Director since late April, when former Rec Director Nikki Howell left or was removed from the position. City staff are unable to comment publicly about personnel issues.

Acting City Manager and Rawlins Police Chief Mike Ward said Flemig is well qualified for the job.

Acting City Manager Ward said in a state known for its kind people, Flamig stands out as a true gentleman.

Chief Ward said that as Interim Recreation Director, Flemig will help him oversee the city while City Manager Tom Sarvey is on medical leave.

Acting City Manager Ward said Flemig is likely to remain the Interim Recreation Director until City Manager Sarvey returns.

In the meantime, Flemig said he is working to ensure the city’s upcoming fall sports programs operate smoothly.

Flemig said he hopes to be selected as the city’s next permanent Recreation Director, adding that he genuinely enjoys the work.

In a social media post from the City of Rawlins, Acting City Manager Mike Ward wrote, “Randy brings energy and a strong commitment to the recreation opportunities the city provides. The City team is here to support the department, and we know Randy will do a great job as the Interim Director.”

For more information, please call Rawlins Public Information Officer Mira Miller at 328-4500 extension 1022.

The post Rawlins Announces Interim Recreation Director first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Thursday, AUGUST 28, 2025  |

Photo – Officer Casey Lehr and K9 Argus – Courtesy Saratoga Police Department

Saratoga police now have a way to detect more types of narcotics.

In March of 2024, the Saratoga Police Department hired two new officers from the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office: Casey Lehr and John Moore. Moore is now the Chief of the Saratoga Police Department. Officer Lehr was a certified K-9 handler with the Sheriff’s Office and now uses his dog, Argus, to find drugs in Saratoga.

During the August 19th Saratoga Town Council meeting, Chief John Moore announced that Officer Lehr and his K-9 partner were recently certified to detect three additional types of narcotics.

Chief Moore said K9 Argus is also now certified in search and apprehension. While the Saratoga Police Department could put those skills to use, the Chief said he is not ready to do so at this time.

Chief Moore said the K9 officer’s new training paid off during a recent call for assistance from the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office, when Argus successfully detected marijuana and methamphetamine during a traffic stop.

The post Saratoga K9 Officer Trained to Detect More Types of Narcotics first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Thursday, AUGUST 28, 2025  |

Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo

The Saratoga Police Department is planning to construct a new kennel to house stray dogs.

During the August 19th Saratoga Town Council meeting, Police Chief John Moore announced that he submitted a special use permit to the Planning Commission for a new set of kennels. Chief Moore said he hopes to build the shelter near the existing dog park at the corner of West Walnut Avenue and South 5th Street. The Chief said the location keeps the animals away from residential areas and provides caretakers with easy access to the park.

Chief Moore said the town’s existing dog kennel is old and requires extensive maintenance. The new facility will feature eight separate cages with a center work area. Should the Planning Commission approve the special use permit, Chief Moore said he will work with Must Love Dogs Sanctuary, a local nonprofit animal rescue, to help raise funds for the new kennels.

The Town Council expressed their support for the project, but informed Chief Moore that an official vote must wait until after the Planning Commission reviews the proposal. The Commission is scheduled to consider the special use permit application during its September 9th meeting at 5:30 p.m. in the Saratoga Town Hall.

The post Saratoga Police Chief Requests New Animal Shelter first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Thursday, AUGUST 28, 2025  |

Photo – Poster for Game Night – Courtesy Carbon County Museum

The Carbon County Museum is hosting a community game night on Saturday evening.

Carbon County Museum Director Tom Mensik and his staff have been exploring new ways to serve the people of Carbon County. As part of that effort, Mensik and his team have created the Carbon County Game Night. The Museum Director said the event will feature food, drinks, and a variety of fun activities.

Tickets to the Carbon County Game Night fundraiser are $25 and will be sold at the door. Since the event is open only to residents 21 and older, Museum Director Tom Mensik encouraged attendees to bring a valid form of identification.

Game Night was originally conceived as a singles event, offering residents a chance to meet new people. However, as plans came together, Mensik said he dropped the singles aspect. All Carbon County residents over the age of 21 are now welcome to attend.

As of yesterday morning, 428 people expressed interest in attending the Carbon County Game Night. While the museum building is unable to accommodate such a large crowd, Mensik said he still hopes the event is well attended. As a fundraiser, all proceeds go to the Carbon County Museum.

Mensik said the museum building can comfortably hold over 80 people at a time.

Mike Lujan, owner of Michael’s Big City Steakhouse, donated all the food for the event. Museum Director Tom Mensik said a variety of entrées will be available for a small fee, with all the money going to the Carbon County Museum.

The Carbon County Game Night is this Saturday, August 30th, at the Carbon County Museum, located at 904 West Walnut Street in Rawlins. The event takes place from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. Tickets are $25 at the door.

The post Saturday’s “Game Night” Fundraiser to Benefit Museum first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Wednesday, AUGUST 27, 2025  |

Saratoga officials debated the necessity of installing school bus signs throughout town.

At the August 19th Saratoga Town Council meeting, Clerk Jennifer Anderson announced that she had received a letter from Carbon County School District Number Two Transportation Director and Mayor of Encampment Shannon Fagan. Clerk Anderson said Mayor Fagan wrote to suggest placing school bus stop signs at various locations around Saratoga.

In her letter, Mayor Fagan said the signs will help students identify designated bus stop areas each morning and alert drivers to locations where students may cross the road. Continuing to read from the Transportation Director’s letter, Clerk Anderson said Fagan recommended using purple and gold bus stop markers mounted on T-shaped metal posts, known for their durability and ease of installation.

Saratoga Mayor Chuck Davis asked Police Chief John Moore if the town was facing an issue with school bus stops. Chief Moore reported receiving multiple calls about drivers illegally passing school buses during student pick-up and drop-off, particularly near Medicine Waters Mobile Home Park on the east side of town.

However, Chief Moore said he believed the town must consult the Federal Highway Administration’s Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices to ensure the suggested T-post signs comply with federal safety regulations.

Public Works Director Emery Penner said he agreed that the signs would need to meet federal Traffic Control Device, or TCD, standards. Penner warned that, for the sake of consistency, the town would need to install signs at all 30-plus school bus stops. The Public Works Director added that he supported the idea of helping students find their designated school bus waiting areas.

Penner said other communities, such as Laramie, don’t use school bus stop signs and suggested there may be a reason for their absence.

Councilman Jerry Fluty said motorists are more likely to pass a school bus if the driver stops on the side of the road. Councilman Fluty recommended instructing the bus drivers to remain in the center of the lane while loading and unloading students.

Town Clerk Anderson said the primary concern is students not gathering at a designated location. Anderson suggested having the schools teach students to stay out of the road while waiting for the school bus.

Public Works Director Penner agreed that an educational program would be more effective than signage. Councilman Mike Cooley added that students are unlikely to comply with a sign.

Mayor Davis tabled a decision on school bus stop signs until Chief Moore speaks with School District Two representatives and Public Works Director Penner consults the Federal Highway Administration.

The post School Bus Stop Signs Discussed at Saratoga Council Meeting first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Wednesday, AUGUST 27, 2025  |

Photo – Running water – Bigfoot99 file photo

The Town of Medicine Bow will no longer offer weekend or after-hours residential water activation.

During the August 11th Medicine Bow Town Council meeting, Public Works Director Brian Lashley asked the governing body for guidance on handling after-hours water service requests. Lashley explained that seasonal residents, referred to as snowbirds, often ask him to activate or deactivate their water on weekends or outside of regular business hours. The Public Works Director recommended denying the requests or increasing the after-hours rates.

The Town of Medicine Bow charges $25 to activate or deactivate residential water service. Because the job takes a minimum of two hours, Mayor Justin George agreed that Lashley should either decline the request or charge an additional fee.

Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer asked if Lashley could activate the water service before a resident arrives in town. The Public Works Director said for liability reasons, someone must be present at the residence when the water supply is turned on.

Councilwoman Wickizer said Lashley is available during the weekends for emergencies, not for the convenience of snowbirds.

The Public Works Director said he was recently called to activate a resident’s water service while on vacation, requiring him to return to town on his day off.

Town Attorney Cameron Smith suggested establishing a set of fees for regular, emergency, and after-hours service requests.

Councilman Lee Cook said residents must arrange to have their water service turned on or off during regular business hours. Mayor George agreed, adding that residents could leave a key with someone they trust, allowing the town to activate the water before they arrive.

Mayor George said he is not in favor of an increased fee for activating or deactivating water service outside of regular business hours. However, the Mayor said the town will continue to offer after-hours service for emergencies.

Mayor George instructed Medicine Bow Town Hall staff to deny requests for after-hours water activation. The Mayor said residents or their designated representatives must be present during regular business hours to have water service turned on or off.

The Medicine Bow Town Council agreed to deny non-emergency after-hours water service requests.

The post No After Hour Water Activation in Medicine Bow first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.

Wednesday, AUGUST 27, 2025  |

Hanna town council members continue to debate the intent of Ordinance 412, which also deals with residential water.

As reported by Bigfoot99, the governing body of Hanna is working on a new ordinance to require all homes within town limits to be connected to municipal water and sewer. According to town employees, a few Hanna residents are living in homes not connected to the town’s water and sewer system.

Speaking at the July 8th Hanna Town Council meeting, Clerk Vivian Gonzales explained that the ordinance is designed to compel residents to use and pay for municipal water and sewer.

Ordinance 412 requires all structures “intended for human habitation” to be connected to the town’s water system.

Councilwoman Ellen Freeman expressed concerns about the wording of the ordinance, stating that the regulation, as written, does not appear to allow residents to temporarily shut off water access during the winter months.

Clerk Gonzales, Treasurer Ann Calvert, and Councilman Sam Sikes emphasized that the ordinance does not target snowbirds or residents who leave for extended vacations. Instead, the regulation aims to ensure that all residents use the municipal water and sewer services while living in their homes.

Despite Councilwoman Freeman’s objections, Ordinance 412 passed on the first reading. All municipal regulation changes must be read three times during three separate public hearings before becoming law.

Ordinance 412 was brought up for a second vote during the August 12th Hanna Town Council meeting. Once again, Councilwoman Freeman objected to the phrasing of the ordinance, arguing that the word “intended” should be changed to clarify that water and sewer connections are only required when the structure is in use.

Mayor Charlie George said the ordinance is written to require utility hookups only when people are living in the structure.

Councilwoman Freeman maintained that the current wording does not convey the intent as interpreted by Mayor George.

Councilwoman Freeman said many structures in Hanna were built with the intention of human habitation but are not being used for that purpose. The Councilwoman reiterated that the word “intention” should be changed before Ordinance 412 is adopted into law.

Councilwoman Freeman emphasized that the ordinance must leave no room for interpretation, warning that future administrations might not understand or agree with the intent behind the regulation.

Councilman David Felix said Ordinance 412 may encourage residents to take better care of their properties. Councilwoman Freeman countered, saying it should be clearly stated in the ordinance itself.

Clerk Vivian Gonzales said the governing body of Hanna is demanding that all residents be connected to municipal water and sewer. Those that refuse to do so must move out of town.

The entire Hanna Town Council, including Councilwoman Freeman, voted to approve Ordinance 412 on second reading. Mayor Charlie George instructed the Councilwoman to bring her proposed wording changes to the next Council meeting.

The post Hanna Town Council Debates Wording in Proposed Water Ordinance first appeared on Bigfoot 99 Radio.