Good morning, Laramie.

Agriculture columnist Dennis Sun says debate over beef labeling is heating up as ranchers clash over voluntary versus mandatory COOL.

He explains that mandatory labeling would require all cattle to have ID ear tags, which could raise costs for producers and consumers—Congress is considering a Senate bill to reinstate the rule.

On Tuesday, Wyoming Horse Racing LLC celebrated its new Horse Palace location in Laramie—holding a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the opening.

The inaugural Snow Train Downtown Music Festival will roll into downtown Laramie as the Union Pacific Railroad passes through the city—marking the start of a new celebration of music and local heritage.

The University of Wyoming Extension released two free online publications to help Wyoming gardeners grow native plants.

The resources provide step-by-step guidance for selecting and caring for species that thrive in local conditions.

Wyoming lawmakers debated a bill to crack down on gambling houses and dealers while keeping friendly poker games safe—only players with real social bonds would not be targeted.

The proposal guides law enforcement in focusing on operators who profit from betting while letting casual play continue.

Laramie County residents clashed at a Thursday planning meeting over a proposed 56,000-acre wind project nearly three times the size of Cheyenne.

Supporters see it as a way to diversify ranch income while critics warn of harm to wildlife and property—leading officials to postpone a vote until further review.

Staffing shortages and equipment failure have slowed the delivery of Wyoming’s new license plates in Albany County—officials say only 100 plates arrive weekly and customers must wait until the month’s end to renew—and the state is working with a Colorado facility to catch up.

Wyoming Blockchain Stampede

6 PM – 12 AM — Health Sciences Center — Free entry — Explore blockchain innovations and engage with industry experts at this comprehensive event.

Wyoming Blockchain Stampede 2025

3:00 – 11:00 p.m. — Health Sciences Center, University of Wyoming — Free entry — Explore the future of Blockchain and AI through engaging speakers and informative panels.

USPA Tested & Open Cowboy Open II

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Laramie Fitness — Registration closes Sep 5th — Compete in various lifting divisions and aim for Best Lifter awards.