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"Nuclear Innovations, NATO Defense, Game & Fish Updates: Casper's Exciting Headlines! Drink Responsibly!"
"Nuclear Innovations, NATO Defense, Game & Fish Updates: Casper's Exciting Headlines! Drink Responsibly!"
"Nuclear Innovations, NATO Defense, Game & Fish Updates: Casper's Exciting Headlines! Drink Responsibly!"
Exciting headlines in this week's newsletter - Nuclear Innovation in Wyoming, NATO defense bolstered, public meeting on Robertson Road, nominations for Outdoor Hall of Fame, and more! Please drink responsibly.
CasperBuzz Staff
Sep 15, 2025
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Quote Of The Day |
"Life is like a mirror, we get the best results when we smile." |
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Honoring Rich Hepner: A Local Hero Supporting Veterans Through the OutdoorsIn Casper, Wyoming, one man continues to make a powerful difference in the lives of those who have served our country. Rich Hepner, a dedicated volunteer with Hunting with Heroes Wyoming, was recently recognized for his ongoing commitment to giving back to disabled veterans. His role may not draw headlines, but to the veterans he helps, Rich is nothing short of a hero. Hunting with Heroes Wyoming is a nonprofit organization rooted in Casper, created to serve disabled veterans by reconnecting them with nature through hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities. These experiences are more than just recreation—they are transformative. For many veterans, especially those dealing with physical injuries or emotional trauma, time in the outdoors provides healing, purpose, and camaraderie. Rich has been a steady force within the program. Whether he’s guiding a veteran on a hunt or helping behind the scenes with logistics, his presence ensures these events go smoothly and safely. He does it not for recognition, but because he believes in the mission and values every opportunity to serve those who’ve already sacrificed so much. For the Casper community, Hunting with Heroes is not just a program—it’s a point of pride. The organization opens access to Wyoming’s vast natural beauty for veterans who may otherwise feel shut out due to disability or financial barriers. Participants are fully supported, from gear and guides to tags and land access, allowing them to focus entirely on the experience. The benefits are substantial. Veterans report improvements in mental health, reduced feelings of isolation, and a renewed sense of purpose after taking part in hunts or fishing trips. The shared experience among fellow service members often becomes a source of emotional strength and support. Beyond helping veterans, the organization also cultivates a spirit of service among volunteers and donors. People like Rich embody this ethos. His recognition shines a light on the power of giving back—not just once, but consistently, quietly, and with heart. Rich’s honor is more than a personal accolade. It’s a reminder that heroes walk among us, often in hunting boots and flannel, giving their weekends to lift someone else up. It’s a call for others in the community to step forward—to donate, to guide, or simply to say thank you. In recognizing Rich Hepner, Hunting with Heroes Wyoming honors a man who has turned appreciation into action. And in doing so, they remind all of us that healing often begins with someone who cares enough to show up. |
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Natrona County faces a pivotal choice as Radiant Industries proposes a facility near Bar Nunn to manufacture advanced nuclear microreactors.
This project could bring hundreds of quality jobs and significant economic growth, benefiting communities like Casper, Mills, Evansville, and Bar Nunn through increased housing demand, expanded services, and rising tax revenues.
Wyoming, with a strong uranium heritage, stands poised to become a leader in both nuclear manufacturing and innovation, diversifying its economy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
However, storing spent nuclear fuel on-site has sparked local debate, echoing past concerns seen in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, about fairness and long-term impacts.
The stakes go beyond Bar Nunn—this is a countywide decision with lasting implications for jobs, investment, and community identity.
Embracing this opportunity could transform Natrona County’s future in clean energy and high-tech careers. Read More... |
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WARSAW, Poland—Tensions have surged in Eastern Europe as NATO bolsters its military presence after several Russian drones encroached on Polish airspace this week.
Polish and allied forces intercepted and downed the drones, marking the first direct clash between NATO and Russian devices within official alliance borders since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk condemned the incident as an “act of aggression,” triggering Article 4 consultations among NATO members.
The Netherlands and Czech Republic will deploy air defense systems, artillery, and troops to Poland, while Germany boosts its air policing missions.
Amid ongoing Russian-Belarusian military exercises and Poland’s border closure with Belarus, European leaders warn of Russia testing NATO’s resolve.
The UN Security Council plans an emergency meeting as Europe faces a complex and rapidly shifting security landscape. Read More... |
Q/A Questions |
Q: What is the population of Casper, Wyoming? A: 58,237 according to the 2020 census.
Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Casper? A: Fishing, hiking, and skiing are popular outdoor activities in Casper.
Q: What are some notable landmarks in Casper? A: Some notable landmarks in Casper include the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, Fort Caspar Museum, and the Astral Observatory. |
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Casper Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) invites the public to a key informational meeting on the Robertson Road corridor study.
The meeting takes place Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Fort Caspar Museum.
Residents can review the draft report, offer feedback, and speak with the project team about proposed changes and community needs.
This study spans Poison Spider Road to CY Avenue and addresses safety, traffic, and multi-modal improvements, considering future growth impacts.
The plan is a partnership with the City of Mills, City of Casper, Natrona County, and Wyoming Department of Transportation.
Open house presentations begin at 5:15 p.m. and 6:15 p.m., sharing findings and recommendations.
Community comments are welcome in person, online, or by contacting the MPO before October 29.
Local input will help guide the future of Robertson Road. Read More... |
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Monday, Sept 15
Tuesday, Sept 16
Wednesday, Sept 17
Friday, Sept 19
Saturday, Sept 20
Sunday, Sept 21
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The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is inviting nominations for the 2026 Wyoming Outdoor Hall of Fame, celebrating individuals with impactful legacies in preserving the state’s outdoor heritage.
This honor, founded in 2004, is reserved for those who have dedicated themselves through work in conservation, resource management, environmental law enforcement, policy, education, research, and creative contributions like outdoor writing or art.
The department is also searching for candidates for the Youth Conservationist of the Year award, spotlighting a Wyoming youth under 18 with exceptional leadership and commitment to conservation efforts.
Nomination packets are now available through the Game and Fish website.
A diverse selection committee, including staff, local conservationists, and community representatives, will determine this year’s honorees.
Further details and nomination instructions can be found by reaching out to the department or visiting their official website. Read More... |
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CHEYENNE — The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is urging all sage-grouse hunters to support conservation by submitting one wing from each harvested bird at designated collection barrels throughout the state.
Hunters should carefully remove a wing at the elbow joint, leaving the other wing attached to the bird for legal transport.
These collected wings provide essential data for biologists such as Nyssa Whitford, helping to monitor population health and reproductive success.
Last year, the program saw a notable uptick, with a 1.82 chicks-per-hen ratio from wings analyzed — indicating a positive trend for sage-grouse numbers statewide.
Collection barrels are available near popular hunting routes across central and southwest Wyoming, and hunters may also drop wings at check stations or regional offices if a barrel isn’t nearby.
All sage-grouse hunters must carry a free annual permit, supporting crucial research and habitat improvement projects.
Hunter participation remains vital for sage-grouse conservation success. Read More... |
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