Good morning, Sheridan.

Powder River Energy Foundation donated $25,000 to 19 charities in five counties across northeast Wyoming for Holiday giving and food pantry relief.

The Foundation approved an extra $15,000 to help local food pantries meet rising demand from a federal shutdown — funds will go directly to those in need — said Joe Roth.

Three Sheridan-area ranches trialed virtual fencing this summer using electronic collars that vibrate and shock to guide cattle while helping wildlife move freely.

Rancher Dan Reinke, who is expanding his herd’s use of the collars, said a three-year pilot program+ field tours next summer will show how the system benefits ranchers and nature.

At the November 3 City Council meeting, Sheridan County Travel and Tourism Executive Director Shawn Parker said that through mid-September, visitors logged over 1.7 million days in the county—a 3% increase over last year—with guests averaging 2.8 days and spending mostly at restaurants and retail stores. The Burgess Junction Visitor Center hosted 29,000 visitors with 213 visitors per day, and many came from the Denver area.

Late last month, the Sheridan College Board of Trustees approved the purchase of about 11 acres in Buffalo across from Buffalo High School at South Main Street and Bypass Road for around $400,000.

Johnson County Commission Chair Bill Novotny said he will help with design recommendations for a new campus — the project is set to be completed within two years.

Superintendent Scott Stults announced that SCSD#2 staff will receive a substantial bonus funded by a state check to make up for the shortfall from the property tax reduction—this bonus will be paid right before the holiday season.

Trustee Ann Perkins thanked the staff at the board meeting as the district aims to support quality education.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department warned residents not to leave pumpkins outside to protect mule deer from getting sick from foods they cannot digest—pumpkins can also attract unwanted scavengers.

Wyoming submitted its application to CMS for the Rural Health Transformation Program to boost rural healthcare and hospital sustainability.

The proposal outlines four key initiatives based on town hall meetings and survey feedback — CMS will announce awardees by December 31.

Governor Mark Gordon directed DFS to start the Hunger Relief Program to fund charities and churches that offer food banks and mobile pantries so SNAP recipients can get healthy food — DFS is contacting organizations and will release emergency funding this weekend if SNAP benefits are later restored after the federal shutdown.

SALT Contemporary Dance Performance

7-9 p.m. — Whitney Center for the Arts — $10 – $30 — Experience an engaging evening of contemporary dance from the SALT Dance Company.

Family Caregivers Support Group

9:30-11:00 a.m. — The Hub On Smith — Free entry — Connect with others in similar caregiving situations for support and resources.

Chamber Lunch

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Best Western Sheridan Center — $25 per person — Enjoy a lunch buffet from Killy’s Smokehouse and connect with the community.

Land-Based Safety Awareness Discovery Session

6-8 p.m. — SCLT Community Rooms, 14 Lane Ln — Free entry — Equip your family with essential outdoor safety skills for your next adventure.

Inaugural Gala for the Natural History Museum of Wyoming

5-10 p.m. — Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Sheridan Hotel & Convention Center — Ticket info unavailable — Celebrate the grand opening of Sheridan's new natural history museum with surprises, dining, and a keynote speaker.

Holiday Swing Concert

7-9 p.m. — Whitney Center for the Arts — Free entry — Experience a festive musical evening with the annual Holiday Swing concert directed by Dr. Eric Richards.

High Mountain Holiday Bazaar

8 AM – 2 PM — Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Sheridan Hotel & Convention Center — Free entry — Enjoy free lunch, drinks, and festive activities with over 25 vendors and photos with Santa.