Valeria Fugate
MMJ/State Reporter
Cheyenne, Wyoming
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Valeria was born and raised in Canada, exposed to different cultures and languages early on, spurring her love of people, travel, and stories. People are amazing! As a Multimedia Journalist, she loves all things culture, politics, and music. Valeria has written for a global magazine and was on a multi-cultural video platform. Her hobbies include photography, writing, videography, rollerblading. She also loves traveling, scuba diving, spending time with her family, being near or in the ocean, music, and dance.
To contact Valeria, please email valeria.fugate@wyomingnewsnow.tv
Education
Affiliations
Updated: 12 hours ago
|By Valeria Fugate
If you are a Wyomingite that is frustrated at how the Biden administration is running the nation you are not alone. In fact, several states have gone out of their way to create legislation that would give state lawmakers more say, and today Wyoming is joining them in getting a little closer to that end.
Updated: 12 hours ago
|By Valeria Fugate
In light of the Chinese spy balloon that got shot over U.S. territory, we asked Wyoming lawmakers what they are doing to help keep Wyoming assets secured.Wyoming’s Senator Cynthia Lummis visited the Legislative chambers on Monday as the House and Senate completed the Committee of the Whole.Lummis spoke about what lawmakers are doing to secure Wyoming’s assets and citizens.
Updated: Feb. 3, 2023 at 7:56 AM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
There was a lot of commotion today in the legislature on Thursday as folks got heated over some hot-topic bills. Thursday morning, the senate signed off on the third reading of the child abuse-change of sex bill. It passed 22 to 9.The moment came to a head when a mother shouted insults from the gallery to the floor as the bill got voted through.
Updated: Feb. 3, 2023 at 7:32 AM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
Thursday was a big day in the legislature. We celebrated Military day and the Diversification of business in the state.” The capitol celebrated Military day with the life of Major Theodore Williams Gostas, a veteran who overcame atrocities by making something beautiful out of something ugly.
Updated: Jan. 31, 2023 at 7:00 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
On Tuesday, both legislative bodies started to review supplementary budgets and amendments. This week lawmakers will dive deeper into the $800M in state funds to allocate to services, programs or savings.
Updated: Jan. 30, 2023 at 6:51 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
On Monday, the House Judiciary Committee took public comment on The Life is a Human Right Act. This bill prohibits abortion and would create new statutes, specifies criminal and regulatory penalties, removes obsolete provisions, and codifies the fetus’s legal rights from conception. Exceptions include spontaneous abortion and ectopic pregnancy and would become effect July 1, 2023.
Updated: Jan. 30, 2023 at 4:41 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
The Senate Labor, Health and Social Services Committee met Friday morning to discuss the child-abuse change of sex bill. This bill would charge parents with child abuse if they assist their under-aged, in changing their gender permanently.
Updated: Jan. 26, 2023 at 9:45 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
On Thursday legislature looked at foreign actors and security. Thursday morning, the agriculture, state and public lands & water resources committee looked at bills prohibiting foreign property and agriculture ownership in the state.
Updated: Jan. 25, 2023 at 10:47 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
“We’re glad we’re making progress to make sure that we can empower military parents to make decisions that are right for their kids when dealing with harassment and discrimination in our school districts,” said Sen. Brian Boner, S.D. 2
Updated: Jan. 25, 2023 at 10:29 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
On Wednesday, committees and legislature looked at access to medicine and protections. The House Minerals Business and Economic Development Committee discussed a news source shield law bill Wednesday. The bill helps journalists and media protect whistle-blowers and sources that could inform the public of wrongdoing.
Updated: Jan. 24, 2023 at 11:44 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
The second week of Legislation has lawmakers looking to support law enforcement and families. The House Judiciary Committee discussed adjusting child support amounts to reflect inflation and the cost of living. It’s been 10 years since the last adjustment it passed the Judiciary Committee going to the floor for further debate.
Updated: Jan. 24, 2023 at 11:07 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was recognized in front of the state capital steps on Monday as crowds gathered and acknowledged the civil rights leader and the newest state proclamation. “You would not have seen this level of diversity marching together for any reason, let alone for equality of rights. And to have me stand and be able to honor Dr. King in front of this diverse field is just absolutely incredible. It means the world,” said CMSgt. Sylvestris Hlongwane, Command Chief, 90th Missile Wing.
Updated: Jan. 24, 2023 at 10:30 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
Students from Cody High School came to the Capitol on Monday for an important bill and issue you’ve probably never heard about.Delta 8 is a chemically modified cannabis drug that is making some Cody students and citizens sick,
Updated: Jan. 24, 2023 at 9:50 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
On Tuesday morning, the Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions Committee discussed liquor licenses and the possibility of joining two licenses to give folks more access to licenses over time. Law enforcement voiced concerns over the “disorderly” effect this could have on the public.
Updated: Jan. 24, 2023 at 9:13 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
On Wednesday morning, the Legislative Committees focused on maternal and child well-being. The Senate Labor, Health and Social Services discussion of S.F.79, the Safe Care for New Borns bill, tackled maternal substance abuse and detailed ways to support both mother and infant with care and community resources, keeping both together instead of criminalizing maternal addiction.
Updated: Jan. 24, 2023 at 8:31 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
On Friday, legislators discussed vaccine discrimination, IDs, and vulnerable adults. Friday morning, a bill prohibiting mask, vaccine and testing discrimination was up in the house labor, health, and social service committee.
Updated: Jan. 24, 2023 at 7:00 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
On Tuesday legislature talked about bills that protect our vulnerable populations. To stave off the growing problem of Fentanyl, House Bill 111 protects children from exposure by expanding on a current statute to protect their rights. This bill will allow for a 5-year felony charge if a child is exposed to the drug.
Updated: Jan. 24, 2023 at 5:59 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
Since the school crosswalk death of a 13-year-old in Cheyenne last year, a new bill is looking at getting funding so it never happens again. The State Department of Transportation and the joint judiciary interim committee are working on getting 10 million dollars to pay for new crosswalks across the state.
Updated: Jan. 12, 2023 at 6:58 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
As much as ARPA funds have helped the state of Wyoming create supportive programs, the sunset date for these funds is around the corner, causing legislators to come up with new ways to sustain these projects’ financing. On Thursday legislature focused on mental health and education. The Joint Revenue Committee looked at sustainable funding for the 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline.
Updated: Jan. 11, 2023 at 7:08 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
If you are a small business looking to expand your exporting capacity, the Wyoming Business Council has a webinar you may want to check out. This program is built to help Wyoming businesses grow their local and international impact, but knowing where to start can be a little daunting.
Updated: Jan. 11, 2023 at 7:00 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
Gov. Mark Gordon spoke to both chambers and the public Wednesday in the people’s house at the Capitol. “It’s my honor and obligation to report to you that today the State of Wyoming is strong and her future is bright,” said Gordon. And touched on the idea that it’s also her citizens’ job to ensure it stays that way.
Updated: Jan. 11, 2023 at 6:52 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
We continue with part two of our discussion with the newly elected Laramie County District Attorney. We spoke with Sylvia Hackl about attorneys and handling the county case workload. You’re planning on hiring more employees and attorneys and staff. How many more are we talking about?
Updated: Jan. 11, 2023 at 6:35 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
We sat down with our newly sworn-in District Attorney for an interview. Sylvia Hackl has practiced law in Laramie county for 42 years, with 22 years in criminal law and a master’s degree in Public Administration. She talked with us about how these experiences will affect her new office.
Updated: Jan. 11, 2023 at 6:07 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
Lawmakers came together Tues. to kick off the latest legislative session. Many new and seasoned legislators look forward to a legislature that puts values and working together at the forefront.Tuesday marks the first day of the 67th legislative session. Today the senate and house chambers swore in their newest lawmakers.
Updated: Jan. 9, 2023 at 7:06 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
You may have noticed that the Avian Flu affects not only migratory birds or your walk at the local park but also food prices. We spoke to some local businesses about how the Avian Flu affects their bottom line. Due to inflation, not only has the cost of living gone up, but now it seems the Avian Flu is driving up the price of food.
Updated: Jan. 4, 2023 at 6:57 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
wo Canadian Geese from Laramie County have tested positive for the Avian Flu. Animal Control recovered several geese for Wyoming Game and Fish Department from Lion’s Park in Cheyenne. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has been monitoring the virus in wild birds. Residents should expect to encounter more dead or sick birds at Lion’s Park during the migratory season.
Updated: Jan. 3, 2023 at 7:00 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
When it’s time to bring down the decorations after Christmas and New Year, folks may want to know the best way to do so safely. We talked to the Laramie County fire authority about their advice. Fire officials say that after Santa has gone back to the north pole. It’s important to keep watering your live tree until it’s ready for disposal to prevent fires.
Updated: Jan. 3, 2023 at 7:00 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
As the state grows, so do the needs of businesses, but how much should regulations or government be involved? These are some issues that the action and advocacy committee is thinking about as they look to the upcoming legislative session.“We need for municipalities to make sure our communities are are safe and appropriate. So were going to have to watch that balance this year. I know there will be a lot of discussion about it,” said Dale Steenbergen, President and CEO of The Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce.
Updated: Jan. 3, 2023 at 12:25 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
Monday was a big day at the Capitol. The state’s top 5 elected officials were sworn into office at the Rotunda. Wyoming officials rang in the new year with a bang. Even during the holiday season, the state keeps working, and today was no exception. On Monday, Gov. Mark Gordon rang in his second inaugural ceremony at the Capitol Rotunda.
Updated: Dec. 30, 2022 at 7:00 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
If you are the type that likes to take risks, gamble on your future and get big money, the horse palace is the place for you, especially this new year’s eve. Across all Wyoming horse palace locations, the new year will be rung up in style. On Saturday, the palace offers free plays and draws for cash giveaways starting at 8 p.m., ending the festivities with a toast at midnight.
Updated: Dec. 30, 2022 at 6:50 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
It’s that time of year when we hear about turning over a new leaf. But for those this year who are committed to improving their health and longevity.We Spoke to some experts about what it takes and how to make it stick as folks jump back on the weight loss bandwagon this time of year. Some local experts recommend starting slow and focusing on your overall health to feel better in your own skin.
Updated: Dec. 29, 2022 at 7:21 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
The Terry Bison Ranch is a staple of Cheyenne and Wyoming, and this slice of western heritage will soon be upgraded in the New Year. The Terry Bison Ranch will serve their beef and bison dinner with all the fixings this week and for New Year. The ranch will also hold its New Year’s special early this year.
Updated: Dec. 29, 2022 at 6:59 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
With New Year right around the corner, Visit Cheyenne and the Downtown District Authority are gearing up for the main event With about 10,000 lights. The New Year’s ball drop is one of 2 main events happening at the Cheyenne depot this year. The event is happening in the square and will start around 11 to 11:30 pm. There will be food trucks and hot beverages available.
Updated: Dec. 28, 2022 at 7:16 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
For families, teens and adults, the Cheyenne Ice and Event Center has activities for everyone during the holidays. The Ice and Event Center start the mornings with some drop-in hockey open for everyone. The public skate and ice-bumper cars are also a crowd favorite, starting from noon to 4 pm.
Updated: Dec. 28, 2022 at 7:02 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
This week, spending time with family can be fun or a little hairy, especially for parents with little kids or teenagers. So the Laramie County Library will be holding some events to help keep your kids occupied and happy. This Wednesday, the library is holding an open Lego build for the little ones.
Updated: Dec. 28, 2022 at 6:48 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
If you love live music, or you’re looking for a way to practice your musical chops and even might need a little liquid courage to showcase your artistic talents... There is a place in Cheyenne that’s got you covered. The Blue Raven Brewery is hosting its open mic night Wednesday.
Updated: Dec. 27, 2022 at 7:03 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
The week between Christmas and New Year’s can be when boredom starts to set in. If you’re looking for something to do to get the kids out of the house and stretch your legs, the botanic gardens might be the place.
Updated: Dec. 27, 2022 at 2:56 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
The Comea House and Resource Center officials were prepared to help. The community worked with the city, county, and state officials to ensure everyone, especially the homeless, were off the street during the unprecedented cold snap that started on Dec. 21st. “People are coming in out of the cold, and we haven’t had any fatalities that we’re aware of, and that is the goal,” said Robin Bocanegra, Executive Director of Comea House & Resources Center.
Updated: Dec. 20, 2022 at 10:32 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
With a cold snap coming later this week, we spoke to officials about what they are doing to prepare for the weather ahead. First responders are gearing up for the cold weather. The Laramie County Sheriff’s office is ensuring deputies are prepared to help others.
Updated: Dec. 20, 2022 at 9:54 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
In this season of giving, Gov. Gordon and officials honored the celebration of lights with the Menorah lighting ceremony. The festival of lights lit up the Capitol on Monday when officials held their annual Hanukkah Menorah lighting ceremony. It was the first year since the pandemic that folks have been able to gather.
Updated: Dec. 20, 2022 at 9:02 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
This week’s upcoming weather event has many folks thinking about what they need to do to stay safe or alive. This sharp temperature drop is predicted for late afternoon on Wednesday into Thursday. The national weather service advises covering your skin when exposed to these extreme temperatures.
Updated: Dec. 15, 2022 at 11:29 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
Immigration in Wyoming has had a rocky past.“Governor Mead expressed an interest in setting up a state program, and then there was a backlash from certain segments that, as I said, claimed a lot of horrible things would happen without much evidence,” said Jerry Fowler. Assistant Professor of the College of Law- Immigration at the University of Wyoming.
Updated: Dec. 15, 2022 at 11:02 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
During the pandemic, the U.S. saw “The Great Resignation” and “The Great Labor Reshuffle.” In 2021, 47 million Americans quit their jobs. But the labor and workforce shortage continues many workers look for a better work-life balance and higher salaries. So where does that leave the labor and service industry, and where does that leave Wyoming?
Updated: Dec. 8, 2022 at 7:13 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
The Comea Comedy awards show will be held this Friday, December 9th, in the lincoln theater. This red-carpet event will include dinner, live music and a comedy show.This event will feature famous comedian Christopher Titus and local comedians Brant Tobler and Dominic Syracuse.
Updated: Dec. 8, 2022 at 6:58 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
It’s that time of year again to gather around family and loved ones as we celebrate all of the things that matter this time. Crowds gathered at the capitol on Thursday for the tree lighting ceremony to celebrate the season and the spirit of giving. The capitol tree lighting ceremony has become an annual tradition celebrating the things making the season bright.
Updated: Dec. 7, 2022 at 7:15 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
According to officials at the Wyoming Department of Transportation, there are about 30,000 vehicles that travel between Wyoming and the front range every day.So the Departments of Transportation for Wyoming and Colorado are looking for a way to make that commute easier.
Updated: Dec. 7, 2022 at 6:58 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
According to officials, Wyoming has been dealing with the ongoing issue of affordable housing, or rather “attainable housing.”As inflation, interest and mortgage rates increase, housing has become more of a distant reality for some folks. Colorado, our neighboring state, is looking to model Wyoming’s affordable housing template to fix its housing shortage.
Updated: Dec. 6, 2022 at 9:46 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
Comedian, actor and storyteller Christopher Titus is coming to Cheyenne. He will be at the Lincoln Theater this Friday, Dec. 9th, for the Comea Comedy awards. The benefit and proceeds will help raise money for the homeless.
Updated: Dec. 1, 2022 at 7:08 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
The post-pandemic LCSD-1 Lunch program changes from free lunches back to reduced and free lunches based on home income, but it seems not everyone is aware. This week’s outstanding lunch debt balance is close to $8,000 dollars.
Updated: Nov. 30, 2022 at 7:16 PM CST
|By Valeria Fugate
As news splashes headlines about the Biden administration tapping Venezuela for oil, we spoke with Wyoming mineral authorities about what this might mean for Wyoming. Wyoming state mineral sector leaders are at a loss about the recent federal decision to resume limited drilling for Venezuelan oil. This news comes after a federal limit on national digging for additional resources due to environmental concerns.
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