As the Wyoming winds whisper tales of changing seasons, we find ourselves wrapped in the warmth of a March that feels more like a prelude to summer. Weather fluctuations aside, the real storm was on the courts, where the Wyoming Cowboys and Cowgirls faced their own challenges, triggering a mix of heartache and hope within our sporting community. My own tale of seasonal shifts took a personal turn with Luke, my furry companion, whose recent health scare reminded me of the preciousness of each moment we share with our loved ones. We'll toast to belated St. Patrick's Day memories and look toward the Easter horizon, weaving together the threads of community, celebration, and the unbreakable spirit that defines us.

Saddle up for a ride into the past as we honor the indomitable Carolyn Lockhart, a woman whose ink and initiative left an indelible mark on the soul of Cody, Wyoming. Lockhart's legacy, from her vivid portrayals of the Old West in her writings to her instrumental role in founding the Cody Stampede, embodies the spirit of an era that continues to captivate the heart of America. Her story is one of determination and passion, a journey through a life that carved out a legacy as enduring as the rugged landscapes she so cherished. Join us as we honor the memory of a woman whose vision helped shape the cultural heritage of the West, and whose influence still echoes in the hoofbeats of the Stampede.

As a Wyoming local, I've felt the pulse of our community in every spine-tingling buzzer-beater at high school basketball games and in the quiet hum of a tackle maker's workshop. Join me, Mark Hamilton, on a journey where we'll witness the unpredictable dance of early spring weather in Hot Springs County and share in the edge-of-your-seat thrills from the West Regional 3A basketball tournament. Feel the intensity as the fate of Thermopolis and Worland teams teeter on crucial free throws, and revel in stories of sportsmanship that transcend the court.

This episode also casts a line into the rich stream of Wyoming's fishing tackle heritage, where the ingenuity of local craftsmen enhances our angling adventures. We honor the legacy of Desmond Doss, whose battlefield courage during World War II still echoes through our valleys, and we face the poignant reality of loss within our University of Wyoming family. So, whether it's embracing the heartfelt craftsmanship that's embedded in our fishing culture or confronting the trials that test our resolve, this episode is a tribute to the strength and spirit of Wyoming's people.

Wyoming's weather is as unpredictable as a plot twist in your favorite novel, and we're here to unravel the mystery behind our state's recent mild temperatures and how they're blessing our farmers with a hint of early spring. But don't put away those snow boots just yet! We also talk about the looming threat of late-season snowstorms that could spell trouble for the agricultural community. Then, we turn the spotlight to the hardwood, where the Wyoming Cowboys and Cowgirls basketball teams are navigating through turbulence, and we dissect the elements they need to regroup and bounce back. High school athletes are on the edge of their seats, too, as state wrestling and basketball tournaments are about to unfold, marking the crescendo of the winter sports season.

Step back in time with us to the days of the Hayden Geological Survey of 1871, where the unlikely duo of Thomas Moran and William Henry Jackson embarked on an expedition that would change the face of the American wilderness forever. Their groundbreaking collaboration birthed a treasure trove of art that persuaded Congress to designate Yellowstone as the world's first national park. We'll explore how their enduring works—Moran's majestic paintings and Jackson's stirring photographs—continue to inspire conservation and art lovers alike, reminding us of the indelible mark they've left on both Wyoming and the global stage. Join us as we celebrate these trailblazers and the powerful legacy of their partnership in art and environmental protection. If you have any comments, please contact us at mark.hamilton@letstalkwyoming.com.