News

11th Annual Festival of Tables Set for March 18

Friday, February 24, 2023

The Festival of Tables set to make its return to Upton on Saturday, March 18, 2022, at the Upton Community Center. The event was started in 2013 by the Upton Chamber of Commerce to raise funds for the Upton Park Project, constructed in 2015. The Upton Economic Development Board joined the event as a sponsor in 2020. Since then, the two organizations have hosted the event in efforts to fund different community projects. This year, the Festival of Tables event will be raising money for Upton History and Heritage, the non-profit organization working to promote tourism through the preservation...

2022 Year in Review

Friday, January 06, 2023

January 6, 2022 The 2021 Citizen of the Year for the Weston County Gazette this year is none other than local philanthropist Carla Materi. Weston County Assessor Kara Lenardson took the Oath of Office from County Clerk Becky Hadlock on Monday. Michele Murray, of Upton, is employed as a teacher at the Wyoming Honor Conservation Camp & Boot Camp, a minimum security prison north of Newcastle, and she informed the Gazette about a case of “green thumb” spreading among the inmates there at the Honor Camp. January 13, 2022 Marty Ertman was once again voted in as...

4 leadership trends to watch in 2023

Saturday, December 24, 2022

Recently, I walked into a medical center and was met by an annoying light flickering above the receptionist’s desk. It twitched nonstop, resulting in an intense strobe light effect in the busy waiting room. When I commented about how difficult it must be to work with it, the receptionist responded, “Management just doesn’t care.” I was tempted to stand on a chair myself and take a minute to turn the fluorescent tube off, but realized I’d probably get yelled at for doing so. And I really wanted that appointment. The next day, when I returned for a follow-up visit,...

5 Proven Tips for Better Defining Your Business' Unique Value Proposition

Friday, January 13, 2023

The business world is incredibly competitive — which is undoubtedly why roughly 45% of businesses fail within five years of opening. While there are many reasons why a business could fail, one of the biggest roadblocks to success is not having a well-defined unique value proposition (UVP). If you can't effectively communicate to your customers why your business and its products or services are unique from your competitors, you're going to have a hard time standing out. Click here to view the full article.

7 ways to bake innovation into your company’s culture

Saturday, November 26, 2022

After my first week of being hired at a manufacturing company, I saw an opportunity for efficiency if workers simply altered the process in which they were fulfilling orders. I made my suggestions to the owner of the business, after which he shook his head and replied, “Thanks, but we’ve been doing it this way for years.” Thinking about something in a new way is often hard for people to grasp. Our minds are programmed to establish patterns of familiarity so that we can more easily predict approach and outcomes. When a new idea is introduced in business, you...

8 Things Entrepreneurs Should Look for When Getting a Business Loan

Friday, January 13, 2023

If you need funds for your enterprise, it can be very tempting to go for the first business loan on offer. However, there are a number of things you should look for before you sign on the dotted line. Click here to view the full article.

A second railroad union votes down Biden's tentative agreement

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

A second railroad union voted on Wednesday against ratifying the tentative agreement brokered between the railroad managers, unions and members of President Joe Biden's administration. The move increases the possibility of a strike in November that would endanger the national supply chain if a deal is not reached. The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, which represents over 6,000 workers in the United States, announced that its members voted to reject the tentative agreement, sending the union back to the bargaining table with management. Click here to read the full article.

A state education organization is offering the opportunity for young people to better communities

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

The Wyoming Young Entrepreneur Pitch Challenge is a contest for K-12 school aged students to promote their ideas for a product or service that could benefit their community, the environment, or the state. This challenge, which opened for pitches at the beginning of the month, is the fourth time that the Wyoming Afterschool Alliance (WAA) has hosted it. Previous challenge events took place in the spring and fall of 2021 as well as earlier this year. Click here to read the full article.

Amid Rebound, U.S. Regains Position as World Leader in FDI

Saturday, October 01, 2022

pair of studies shows the U.S. at the top of the rankings for foreign direct investment (FDI) behind a surge of Asian and European investment in technology, chemicals, information and communication, and financial services. According to Kearney’s Global Business Policy Council’s 2022 Foreign Direct Investment Confidence Index and for the tenth consecutive year, the U.S. is the world’s No. 1 destination for FDI. Click here to view the full article.

Coal shipments are down and a looming nationwide railroad strike likely will make it worse

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

Shipments of coal to U.S. power plants fell significantly over the last decade, which is notable for Wyoming as its the top producer of coal in the country. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) released new data showing that from 2010 to 2021 coal shipments to U.S. power plants fell by about half. Read the full article here.

Committee asks for federal land project proposals

Monday, December 05, 2022

The Greater Rocky Mountain Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) is now accepting applications for money to fund projects that will benefit national forest lands. Individuals, public and private entities can apply for the funding, which comes from the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act. This funding model began in 1908 to support rural areas whose tax base diminished due to the expansion of federal lands, according to a U.S. Forest Service webpage. Today, the money is disbursed in three areas, known as titles, for roads and schools, federal lands and county projects. Click here to view...

Empathy-first leadership: Being a boss with a heart

Friday, January 13, 2023

Does business really have to be all . . . business? Being a leader isn’t just about profit and loss statements; it’s also about being human. Effective leaders know that their listening skills and ability to empathize with staff and customers can be just as essential as sharp instincts about what will or won’t sell. In a recent webinar sponsored by Inc., Fast Company, and the Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network (DWEN), moderator Amy Jo Martin, founder and CEO of Renegade Global, spoke with Verta Maloney, co-founder of the*gameHers, a community for women gamers to meet, connect, and play online...

Entrepreneurs Drive Upton’s Success!

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Over the past couple of years, communities across the nation have experienced significant small business growth and entrepreneurship. Upton’s entrepreneurs play a vital role in meeting the community’s needs, resulting in job creation, economic sustainability and growth. What is an entrepreneur? A person with an exciting idea who seeks to turn it into a profitable business is an entrepreneur. Dedication and hard-working with the energy needed to design, launch and operate a new business are character traits they typically possess in abundance. Thousands of individuals put their entrepreneurial ideas to the test by starting their own businesses due...

Find small business support in Upton

Thursday, March 09, 2023

Small businesses are the driving force behind well-paying jobs, dynamic business growth and overall quality of life in communities nationwide. The Upton Economic Development Board (UEDB) recognizes this importance and seeks to facilitate the necessary assistance the owners, leaders and entrepreneurs of these entities face. Additionally, several state and national organizations focus on small business assistance in the Upton area. #SBDC Day Wednesday, March 15, is #SBDC Day, a national proclamation by America’s Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) regarding their impact on the success of America’s small businesses. More than 1,000 SBDCs nationwide comprise a comprehensive small business...

Firm has big plans for air capture

Monday, October 10, 2022

CASPER – Wyoming leaders have made plain, for years, that they’re courting carbon capture developers in an effort to save the state’s coal industry. But their vision of Wyoming as a destination for carbon capture has also grown to encompass much more than coal. That’s what prompted state officials to pursue – and successfully land – Project Bison, which on Sept. 8 became the largest direct air capture initiative ever announced. Read full article.

Forget about goal setting. Try these 5 strategies instead

Friday, October 14, 2022

Goal setting is one of those things that seems like it would be fundamental to success. If you’ve read any books or articles about getting ahead in your career or life, you’ve probably come across tips on setting goals (like SMART goal setting) so that you can successfully meet them. But setting goals may not be as relevant anymore, and there may be better alternatives to managing your career–and your life. Click here to read the full article.

From the Oilfield to the TV Screen

Friday, February 24, 2023

The McMillan clan has always had a passion for cars. For Upton, Wyoming native Joel McMillan, this passion led to an opportunity to leave his oilfield life behind for a life on the big screen. Growing up, Joel, parents Tom and Diana McMillan, and family, were always around cars. From going to car shows to working on classic cars of their own, the McMillan family would do anything that revolved around the automotive industry. Joel remembers watching every car show possible and idolizing those on the shows. That passion led Joel to go to school in Casper, Wyoming for...

Governor Celebrates Wyoming’s First Veteran-focused Skilled Nursing Facility

Thursday, October 20, 2022

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Governor Mark Gordon celebrated the newly constructed Veterans Home of Wyoming with a ribbon-cutting ceremony today. The first skilled nursing facility dedicated to veterans in Wyoming will provide long-term care to veterans, their spouses and Gold Star families. “Our veterans are an integral part of Wyoming’s rich heritage, and it is an honor to celebrate the completion of the first veterans skilled nursing facility in Wyoming,” shared Governor Mark Gordon. “Veterans, and their families, embody the spirit of Wyoming through their courageous and selfless actions to protect the liberties we hold dear. This beautiful facility reflects...

Governor Gordon Offers a Blueprint for Wyoming to Lead the Nation

Wednesday, January 11, 2023

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Governor Mark Gordon’s State of the State Address to the 67th Legislature highlighted multiple fronts where Wyoming is leading and further opportunities to lead the nation through innovation. Reflecting on the current financial position of the state Governor Gordon noted, “Wyoming finds herself at a remarkable juncture. Federal government largess and energy markets have given Wyoming a financial bumper crop. Yet, Wyoming is strong, and her future is bright. Together, we have an opportunity to make her even stronger for our people and for the generations to come.” Click here to view the full article.

Governor Gordon Sworn In for 2nd Term; Outlines Vision for Building Wyoming’s Future in Second Inaugural Address

Monday, January 02, 2023

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – After taking the oath of office for his second term, Governor Mark Gordon delivered his Second Inaugural Address. Governor Gordon pledged to continue to fight for Wyoming values, and called on her citizens to work together to build the state’s future. The Governor’s speech encouraged engaging with others holding differing views, and laid out a vision “for Wyoming to chart her path, independent of political fashion, or popular trend.” Click here to view the full article.

Guide for Planning Your Fun Days Trip

Monday, June 13, 2022

The summer season is almost upon us! With the summer coming up, Upton Fun Days is rapidly approaching. The annual celebration makes its return to Upton July 15-17, 2022, with three days filled with fun and memories for the whole family. The Upton Chamber of Commerce has worked diligently to plan the event for all, so in addition to their hard work, here’s our guide for planning your 2022 Fun Days Trip. Where to Stay If you are looking for a place to stay for this year’s Fun Day’s celebration, look no further than the options in Upton....

Hotel Project to Move Forward

Thursday, March 23, 2023

The Upton Wyoming Hotel, LLC (“UWH”) has signed a contract with Hunsaker Motel Group, LLC, a contractor out of Hermosa, South Dakota to resume the hotel construction for the hotel to be built in Upton on the Black Hills West site, near Tiger Transfer, west of town. The UWH initiated a lawsuit in August 2022 against BriMark Builders, the construction company hired by UWH to build a new Cobblestone Hotel in Upton. A confidential settlement was reached by both parties in December 2022, allowing UWH to move forward with constructing the hotel in 2023. The contracts have been...

How to create an environment where innovation flourishes

Friday, January 13, 2023

For many entrepreneurs, breakthrough innovations seem to appear out of the ether, mysterious in origin and almost magical in their power. They understand that new ideas are crucial to organizations’ success but are not sure how to generate and foster them. Breakthrough innovation was the focus of a recent panel at the Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network Powerhouse Summit in conjunction with Fast Company and Inc. Business leaders from a variety of industries provided perspective into where breakthroughs come from, how they can be encouraged, and the importance of challenging the business practices, systems, and services that have been used...

How To Include Remote Workers in Your Workforce Attraction Strategy

Monday, January 09, 2023

As we enter a new year, you may be wondering how to include remote workers in your workforce attraction strategy. We all know that there are many, many more people working remotely now than there ever have been in the past. In fact, in June of 2022, a Gallup survey reported that 8 in 10 people are working hybrid or remote, while only 2 in 10 are entirely on-site. An AT&T study shows the hybrid work model is expected to grow from 42% in 2021 to 81% in 2024. It is vital to focus on effectively targeting remote workers, but...

ICYMI: A round-up of links to videos of webinars you might have missed

Friday, September 30, 2022

We've had a super busy start to our fall webinar line-up! More than 800 people signed up for our recent webinar offerings, on subjects from rural economic development to supporting small businesses and so much more. If you missed any of these recent webinars, you are in luck! We recorded all of them and invite you to review those videos at your convenience. Read here for the full article.

Metal Fabrication Strong With Demand, Expansion

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

“It’s an underappreciated industry.” That’s the basic observation of Dennis Donovan, principal with Wadley Donovan Gutshaw Consulting, of Bridgewater, N.J., when he was asked about the importance of, the health of and the potential of the metal fabrication industry. A look at the breadth of the sectors it serves gives some insight into why Donovan offered that description. While it may not always garner the glitz of other more frontline sectors like headquarters locations, tourism or digital media, consider the integral connection metal fabrication provides to such industries as defense, transportation equipment, energy, furniture and medical equipment....

New marketing coordinator focuses on Upton community development in 2023

Friday, February 10, 2023

Economic development often works best by understanding local strengths and focusing on an integrated approach centered on a community’s goals. As the new Economic Development and Marketing Coordinator with the Upton Economic Development Board (UEDB), Kade McMillan is an expert on the local angle, with a mindset to build that future direction. “Growing up in Upton, I’ve been able to witness the community rally around individuals and businesses to show support and compassion to improve life for all,” he said. “It is essential to listen to the people who have been part of the community to fully understand what...

Rare Element Resources receives $4.4 million grant from Wyoming Energy Authority in support of Rare Earth Demonstration Plant Project

Monday, November 21, 2022

November 21, 2022 – Littleton, Colorado – Rare Element Resources Ltd. (the “Company” or “RER”) (OTCQB: REEMF) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $4.4 million grant from the Wyoming Energy Authority (the “WEA”) to be utilized for the advancement of the Company’s rare earth element processing and separation demonstration plant project in Upton, Wyoming. The grant is a cost reimbursement award for future expenditures related to the project, which is also supported by the U.S. Department of Energy (the “DOE”) through a previously announced financial award. The total project cost is approximately $44 million, with $21.9...

Request for Expression of Interest seeks input from stakeholders on Direct Air Capture as Wyoming considers federal funding opportunities

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

Cheyenne, Wyo – The University of Wyoming School of Energy Resources (SER), together with the Wyoming Business Council (WBC) and the Wyoming Energy Authority (WEA), has released a Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI) to solicit input from key stakeholders on Direct Air Capture activities and initiatives in Wyoming. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Four Regional Clean Direct Air Capture Hubs program, part of the Investment in Infrastructure and Jobs Act, may present an opportunity for Wyoming to create economic growth and resilience by encouraging development in the direct air capture (DAC) industry. DAC is a form of Carbon...

Sheridan Memorial Hospital will have behavioral health and emergency triage facilities by 2026

Thursday, January 19, 2023

Sheridan Memorial Hospital (SMH) has received funding that will create a dedicated triage space for their emergency department as well as providing resources for those with behavioral health needs locally. The funds are being provided by the State Loan and Investment Board (SLIB). “The State Loan and Investment Board awarded $5.9 million to Sheridan Memorial Hospital for use in the project that we have which is a behavioral health unit, inpatient and behavioral health unit, and it's a $12.8 million total project,” said Mike McCafferty, CEO of Sheridan Memorial Hospital. “Also, the State Loan Investment Board awarded us $480,000...

Small Business Success in Upton Starts with a Plan

Sunday, December 18, 2022

Over the past few years, individuals across the country have been creating new businesses out of their innovative ideas. While these entrepreneurs may be knowledgeable in the areas those ideas center around, they often need guidance in understanding how to start a business. Experts indicate the best first step to get that operation moving forward in 2023 is to write a business plan now. Fortunately, Upton entrepreneurs can access expertise from Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network and its Regional Director, P.J. Burns. “A good business plan is less of a reflection of a single point in...

State seeks input on aging infrastructure

Monday, October 10, 2022

Wyoming landowners, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to attend upcoming public meetings on critical aging irrigation infrastructure in their communities. Much of the state’s irrigation infrastructure is more than 100 years old. Troubling developments, such as the collapse of the Gering – Fort Laramie Canal Tunnel and the identification of structural issues in the LaPrele Dam, prompted the state of Wyoming to launch the Critical Aging Irrigation Infrastructure Project, Level I Study. Read full article.

The 4 Biggest Difficulties Every Entrepreneur Faces

Friday, October 14, 2022

The path to success as an entrepreneur can take many different forms, and no matter what path you choose, difficulties will always exist. It's easy to become a bit of a skeptic when it comes to doing business. The truth is, it's not easy — and it's not for everyone. It takes hard work and determination to succeed, no matter how cliché it sounds. You also have to recognize challenges as bottlenecks — not as signs of failure, but as obstacles to be overcome. To prepare yourself for any difficulties you might encounter along your entrepreneurial journey, here are...

Think Upton First 2.0

Monday, June 13, 2022

Background In 2016, Upton High School Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) partnered with the Upton Economic Development Board and the Upton Chamber of Commerce to develop and implement the “Think Upton First” campaign, to educate citizens on ways to support the community by shopping locally. June 2022, the Chamber of Commerce started to develop Think Upton First 2.0, to build upon the original campaign, and create strategies to help businesses grow, develop a stronger workforce, and to revitalize downtown Upton. Overview The overall purpose of Think Upton First 2.0 is to bring the community together and...

Three Big Challenges Facing the Food & Beverage Industry

Saturday, October 01, 2022

Huge spikes in demand for retail products, while food service demand virtually disappeared…supply chain disruptions that revealed previously unknown weaknesses in the flow of ingredients and materials…already existing labor shortages exacerbated by COVID outbreaks and shutdowns, as well as existing staff missing time due to illness, caring for family members, or juggling work in an essential industry with remote school and other logistical challenges — these are among the challenges food and beverage processors have faced. While these disruptions have stabilized as food and beverage processors have figured out how to adapt and improvise, they still exist. And they are...

University of Wyoming launches center dedicated to non-partisan firearms research

Friday, January 20, 2023

As the debate over gun control in the U.S. continues, the University of Wyoming (UW) has launched a new center dedicated to all aspects of firearms research. The new Firearms Research Center (FRC) seeks to bring together voices concerned with all aspects of firearms for in-depth research, collaboration, and discussions, and to create opportunities for learning. Dr. George Mocsary, Co-Founder and Director of the center, said the center will be a focal point for all gun-related practitioners, scholars, policymakers, and practically anyone doing firearms-related work or interested in firearms in general. Click here to view the full article.

Upton Community Forum

Monday, June 13, 2022

The evening of May 26, 2022 an Upton Community Forum was hosted by the Upton Chamber of Commerce and Upton Economic Development Board (UEDB), open to all in the community. It kicked off with a complimentary dinner served by Joe’s Food Center. Over 50 people were in attendance, including Senator Ogden Driskill, Representative Chip Neiman, and Representative JD Williams. Guest speaker, Pat Wyss, Principal of Wyss Associates, Inc. presented the results of an Upton Downtown Property Study. The project was funded by a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)-Department of Rural Business Development (RBDG). The purpose...

Upton Logistics Center Named First BNSF-Certified Site in Wyoming

Friday, February 24, 2023

With more industries and opportunities settling their gaze on northeast Wyoming, and on Upton in particular, our community just acquired another feather in its cap. The Upton Logistics Center was named as the first BNSF Railway Certified Site in the State of Wyoming! This designation happened in November 2022. BNSF Railway is one of North America's leading freight transportation companies. Bordered on its east edge by the BNSF Railway, the Upton Logistics Center is comprised of 295 developable acres, which are zoned for heavy industrial use. Tiger Transfer, a premier transloader, operates the Upton Logistics Center. Upton is the...

Upton Municipal Airport Master Plan Presented

Thursday, March 23, 2023

This past Tuesday, the Upton Town Council was joined by Upton Municipal Airport Manager Lori Materi, Tim Wick of MorrisonMeirle and AJ Schutzman, Senior Planner, WYDOT Aeronautics for the third meeting with council, to present the findings of options discovered in the Upton Municipal Airport Master Plan. Wick presented Chapter 5 of the plan to the council, explaining “the preferred alternatives to the Upton Municipal Airport that would be the best fit to the community.” Wick displayed drawings of the airport concept plan, helping the town council to identify the airport concept regarding land owned by the city,...

USDA Announces Major Program Improvements, Progress, and Investments to Benefit American Farmers, Ranchers, and Producers

Monday, January 09, 2023

SAN JUAN, P.R., January 9, 2023 — Today, at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual convention, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced several major developments at the U.S. Department of Agriculture that will benefit farmers, ranchers and producers across the nation. “At USDA, our goal is to provide all farmers, including new and underserved producers, with the opportunity to receive the assistance they need to continue farming, to build and maintain their competitive-edge, and to access more, new, and better markets,” said Vilsack, who spoke at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual convention today. “Working together we can ensure American...

USDA Formalizes Big Game Conservation Partnership with State of Wyoming

Monday, October 17, 2022

WASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the state of Wyoming are formalizing a partnership to support the voluntary conservation of private working lands and migratory big game populations in Wyoming. As part of the agreement signed today by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Governor Mark Gordon (PDF, 1.4 MB), USDA will provide a new package of investments in key conservation programs for fiscal year 2023, which includes funding to support increased staffing capacity and the deployment of streamlined program application processes for agricultural producers and landowners. Producers in the Wyoming pilot area will be...

USDA Provides Nearly $24M Boost for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers

Tuesday, November 15, 2022

WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2022 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Chief Scientist Chavonda Jacobs-Young today announced a nearly $24 million investment across 45 organizations and institutions that teach and train beginning farmers and ranchers. “Investing in the professional development of our nation’s newest farmers and ranchers will help our food and agriculture sectors to flourish from the ground up,” said Jacobs-Young, who is also USDA’s Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics. “Strengthening and growing our next generation pipeline is vital to the continued success of American agriculture and prosperity of rural communities.” Click here to view the...

Why Utilities Are Such Great Economic Development Partners

Monday, September 26, 2022

Anyone whose eye is on international news today can easily see how all aspects of a community are impacted when energy is scarce, unreliable, or unaffordable. Yet even under optimal conditions and ideal circumstances, successful economic development organizations fully understand why utility companies are invaluable working partners. Click here for the full article.

With Rail Strike Looming, Wyoming Has The Coal To Ship But Can’t Get Enough Trains

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Wyoming coal producers are struggling to get their product out and the possibility of a railroad worker strike is adding anxiety on top of limited rail capacity. Randall Luthi, chief energy advisor for Gov. Mark Gordon, met with executives at Peabody Energy earlier this month. Production is up, but Luthi said Powder River Basin coal companies are having a hard time getting enough trains to ship it to customers. Read the full article here.

Wyoming Lands World’s Largest Vertical Farming Research Facility

Friday, February 03, 2023

Governor Mark Gordon has announced a historic economic development investment, as the State Loan and Investment Board (SLIB) approved a grant to support development of the world’s largest and most advanced vertical farming research center in Laramie. The project will support the retention and creation of nearly 200 high-paying jobs in the community. The company, Plenty Unlimited Inc., is dedicated to advancing the emerging technology field of indoor agriculture. The new research center in Laramie expects to utilize an internship-to-employment pipeline to hire local workers, as well as hire recent University of Wyoming graduates. The investment by the Wyoming Business...

Wyoming looks to grow its manufacturing sector

Monday, October 10, 2022

CASPER —Wyoming leaders are effectively laying the groundwork for manufacturing sector growth, but the state’s new industries and shifting workforce will need continued support in the years ahead, panelists said at an economic development event Friday. The panel — one of several convened in Jackson by the Wyoming Energy Authority, Wyoming Business Council, University of Wyoming School of Energy Resources and the Atlantic Council, an international affairs think tank — focused on the future of Wyoming’s efforts to diversify its economy. Read full article.

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