I grew up in a family tied to the Wyoming energy industry. Not owners and power brokers. My dad worked the oil fields as a young man and ultimately finished his working days as a heavy equipment mechanic at the coal-fired Dave Johnston Power Plant near Glenrock.
One of my earliest memories is of fire shooting into the dark sky at the Simpson #1 oil well fire near Gillette in October of 1967. Dad came rushing home one night and told my mom to gather the kids and come see the blowout. That fire saw John Wayne and a filming crew arrive to film footage for the movie, “Hellfighters.” The movie was based loosely on the life of Red Adair, a famous oil well firefighter. Dad even got to meet Red Adair during that fire.
A Childhood Shaped by Wyoming Energy
Bottom line, every need I had as a child was met through hardworking Wyoming parents who were very much a part of the energy culture in our great state. Hearing the work stories and watching the coal trains on my way to grandma’s house was just part of growing up.
Why is this pertinent to a political campaign now that I am in my 60s? Because I grew up seeing the fluctuations of the economy based on energy. Our dinner table discussions often had smatterings of what was happening in the industry. What was the latest on coal mining, oil and gas, or uranium mining? I even seriously considered mining law while in law school because it was such a part of my growing up experience.
Why Energy Still Matters
Wyoming is, in part, defined by its energy wealth. Why would we give up that legacy? I do not think we should. Times and technology may change, but I cannot imagine a future that does not require energy production. Can you?
A Legacy Worth Protecting
Let us stay on top of this, Wyoming. Let us explore opportunities and fight to keep our heritage industry. We can power on and power up this great country and beyond.
One More Story from the Oil Fields
Here is one more fun facet of the oil well fire story. I do not remember this part, but my mom tells me a Halliburton truck that was just a wee bit too close to the fire melted and became metal glob décor on a wall at the shop. I wish I remembered that piece of art.
To learn more about Donna Rice, visit the About Us page or explore additional updates on the Media page.
