The Kelly Walsh Trojans seized a landmark 35–25 victory over the Natrona County Mustangs in the 2025 Oil Bowl at Dick Cheney Alumni Field, ending a nine-year drought in this fierce Casper rivalry.

 

KWHS got off to a powerful start, scoring early, but NC answered quickly, tying the game in the opening minutes.

 

The Trojans surged ahead before halftime and controlled the second half with steadfast defense and dynamic plays, thrilling a packed crowd.

 

The atmosphere pulsed with excitement from both fanbases, underlining the Oil Bowl’s role as a celebrated tradition in local culture.

 

As the season continues, both teams look to build on this momentum and fuel community pride citywide.

The federal government shutdown has stretched into its ninth day, with no breakthrough between congressional leaders.

 

Senate Majority Leader John Thune suggested a temporary funding fix, yet Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer dismissed it for lacking firm promises.

 

Roughly 900,000 federal workers remain furloughed while 700,000 more work without pay, intensifying anxiety nationwide.

 

Military families fear paycheck delays, especially with the October 15 deadline looming.

 

The Trump administration stoked debate by airing airport videos blaming Democrats and highlighting TSA challenges, as air travel endures over 19,000 delays tied to FAA staff shortages.

 

Federal unions erupted after the Office of Management and Budget left back pay in doubt, pending divided congressional action.

 

Minnesota’s WIC program and energy upgrades, along with Colorado’s rural services and national parks, face worsening interruptions.

 

A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows rising anger directed at Republicans, Democrats, and President Trump alike, as communities brace for deeper disruption with no end in sight.

The federal government shutdown has entered its eighth day, with no agreement in sight between Republicans and Democrats.

 

House Speaker Mike Johnson asserts the House fulfilled its duty by passing a funding bill, shifting responsibility to the Senate.

 

Meanwhile, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticizes GOP leaders for a lack of dialogue since a recent White House meeting, stressing Democrats’ willingness to negotiate anytime to reopen the government.

 

The main sticking point remains the extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits, which are set to expire soon, raising stakes for working and middle-class Americans facing higher healthcare costs.

 

With no deal, the consequences are spreading—over 34,000 IRS staff will be furloughed and airline passengers are now dealing with widespread delays as air traffic controller shortages worsen.

 

The Trump administration’s proposal to deny retroactive pay has heightened anxiety for more than 700,000 federal workers, adding to the uncertainty rippling across the nation.

Casper City Council Recap — October 7, 2025

Casper’s latest City Council meeting blended public safety, infrastructure, and community development into a packed agenda.

 

Mayor Ray Pacheco proclaimed Fire Prevention Week, with officials warning about lithium-ion battery fires and urging residents to buy UL-listed products and recycle batteries properly.

 

Public comments centered on the Sino Pumped Storage Project near Seminoe and Pathfinder Reservoirs, with concerns about fish habitats, wildlife, and recreation. The draft EIS is open for comment until Jan. 2, 2026.

 

The Council also showed strong support for a proposed youth “third space”—a community hub blending creative skills, workforce training, and mental-health support—and agreed to draft a letter backing grant funding for the project.

 

A new budget amendment added about $4.1 million in net spending (a 2.3% increase), mainly to fund critical wastewater infrastructure upgrades financed at an ultra-low 0.25% interest rate.

 

Other actions included advancing a zoning change for the Irma Addition, approving a broad consent calendar (covering police remodeling, transit buses, lighting, and more), and setting an Oct. 21 public hearing for Oil City Beer Company’s new license.

 

The meeting closed with updates on opioid settlement funding, Metro Animal Shelter’s TNR program, and Domestic Violence Awareness Month events.

The federal government shutdown has now entered its seventh day, with the Senate adjourning Tuesday night and no agreement reached on funding. Lawmakers are expected to reconvene Wednesday, hoping for votes by late morning.

 

Democratic Senator Tim Kaine pressed Republicans for solid commitments on health insurance subsidies, citing distrust of the White House’s follow-through. Republican Senator Kevin Cramer expressed openness to negotiate on health credits, but only after the government reopens.

 

Flight delays continue at major airports like O’Hare and Boston, with the FAA citing staffing shortages as unpaid air traffic controllers call in sick. Union leaders warn delays may worsen if the stalemate drags on.

 

The shutdown endangers critical social programs such as WIC, serving millions of low-income women and children; funds could run dry within weeks. Hundreds of thousands of furloughed workers face uncertain pay, as President Trump signals compensation may not be automatic.

 

Economic fallout grows, with the SPY ETF slipping and no end to the impasse in sight.

The University of Wyoming is preparing for a major leadership change as the Board of Trustees begins its search for a new president, following Ed Seidel’s announcement to step down in June 2026.

 

Seidel’s tenure since 2020 has seen key milestones, including achieving Carnegie R1 Research status, starting a School of Computing, and building the Wyoming Innovation Partnership.

 

The board has formed a diverse, 17-member search committee chaired by Carol Linton to ensure a thorough and inclusive process, gathering broad input from faculty, students, alumni, and the community.

 

Stakeholder sessions and surveys have helped define what UW needs in its next president.

 

Finalists will meet the campus community in spring 2026, with the goal of a smooth transition by July.

 

This pivotal search is seen as essential for maintaining UW’s strong statewide educational and research presence.

 

Janine Jordan, a Casper native with over 20 years in municipal leadership, has been selected as the city’s new city manager.

 

Mayor Ray Pacheco praised Jordan’s deep experience and her commitment to public service, noting that her leadership background made her stand out among four finalists, including two current Casper employees.

 

Jordan previously served as Laramie’s city manager since 2007, where she managed budgets of more than $130 million and was recognized for her focus on efficiency and teamwork.

 

She expressed excitement to return home and work closely with city staff and residents to build a vibrant Casper.

 

Zulima Lopez will remain interim city manager until Jordan starts, while Eric Nelson continues as city attorney.

 

Jordan’s leadership arrives at a transformative time for Casper, with community forums planned to shape her vision alongside residents.

 

Local leaders emphasize a spirit of collaboration as Casper enters this promising new era.

At midnight on October 1, 2025, the U.S. federal government officially entered a shutdown after Congress failed to agree on a budget for the new fiscal year. The deadlock has already furloughed about 900,000 federal employees and left another 700,000 working without pay, placing a strain on families, businesses, and essential services nationwide.

 

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What Led to the Shutdown

 

The disagreement in Washington centers on spending levels, foreign aid, and healthcare subsidies.

 

• Democratic Position
  Senate Democrats refused to support a temporary funding bill that preserved Republican tax cuts while reducing federal aid for healthcare. They argued that eliminating subsidies and tax credits would raise costs for American families and weaken access to care. Democrats maintained that any short-term deal must protect these supports before considering broader fiscal debates.

 

• Republican Position
  President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans pushed a stopgap bill that kept current tax cuts in place but limited certain Democratic spending priorities. They contended that government funding should move forward without what they viewed as partisan conditions, blaming Democrats for tying basic funding to policy demands. Republicans also emphasized reducing what they call “wasteful programs” in order to curb federal spending.

 

Natrona County’s “Above & Below” Gala Honors Veterans and Supports Local Service Members

 

CASPER, Wyo. — On Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., the Natrona County Republican Women will host their “Above & Below” Gala at the Ramkota Hotel in Casper. The event raises funds to support two vital missions: providing direct aid to local military families and ensuring that every veteran laid to rest in Natrona County Cemetery’s is honored each December through Wreaths Across America.

 

The Local Mission: Above & Below

 

The “Above & Below” concept was developed by the Natrona County Republican Women as a way to recognize both the living and the fallen.

Casper residents looking to improve fitness, confidence, and self-defense skills can take part in a special opportunity this October.

 

Aikido of Casper will welcome newcomers for its monthly New Student Night on Monday, October 6, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 142 S. Center St., right beside Sonic Rainbow.

 

This session introduces Aikido, a martial art rooted in balance, harmony, and non-aggressive techniques, ideal for beginners of any age or background.

In the early morning of September 30, 2025, a river rescue was launched in Casper after a call claimed a man had fallen into the water and couldn’t get out.

 

Responders from the Casper Police Department, Natrona County Sheriff's Office, and Casper Fire Department searched for hours before finding the individual safe at his home — far from danger.

 

Interviews later revealed the caller’s report was fabricated, likely influenced by substance use, prompting an ongoing police investigation into false reporting.

 

The Casper Police stressed these false emergencies strain local agencies, tie up critical resources, and could endanger real lives.

Casper City Council will convene for a special session tonight, Tuesday, September 30, at 5:00 p.m. in City Hall’s Council Chambers.

 

On the agenda: the review of vital contract authorizations and an update to Resolution 25-159, aimed at modernizing city policies to better serve Casper residents.

 

Additional city business will be considered, with more issues possibly arising during the meeting.

 

After the public meeting, councilmembers will move into a closed executive session focused on personnel matters.

 

Residents can access all meeting materials on the newly launched city website, streamlining public engagement.

 

Community input is welcomed online via email at CouncilComments@casperwy.gov, allowing participation even for those unable to attend in person.

 

The session will also be streamed live on the city’s YouTube channel, keeping everyone connected to local government.

Casper and Douglas are rallying behind their small businesses, with new efforts aimed at making shopping local more rewarding for everyone.

 

A new coupon and local event magazine is launching in November, showcasing the unique shops, eateries, and services that set these communities apart.

 

Buy Local Casper Wyo leads the charge, highlighting hidden gems and inspiring stories while sharing the benefits of supporting independent businesses.

Special Olympics Wyoming is seeking volunteers for its highly anticipated State Fall Tournament in Casper, taking place October 8–10.

 

More than 500 athletes and over 30 teams from around Wyoming will compete in bowling, cycling, bocce, and soccer, with events hosted at locations like the North Casper Soccer Complex, Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park, Boomtown Blast, and El Mark-O Lanes.

 

Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting competitions, managing meals, and organizing awards, ensuring the experience is seamless for participants.

 

Locals are also encouraged to come out and cheer for the athletes, adding to the event’s spirit and excitement.

 

To get involved, contact the Special Olympics Wyoming office at 307-235-3062 or register online.

CASPER, Wyo. — The Elks National Foundation (ENF) has officially opened applications for the 2026 Most Valuable Student (MVS) Scholarship, offering high school seniors a chance to compete for a share of $2.44 million in college funding.

 

 Right here in Natrona County, Melissa Mayo is stepping up once again as the local Scholarship Coordinator, making sure Casper students don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity.

Big Rewards for Students

 

The ENF will award 500 scholarships this cycle:

 

• Top 20 finalists will each receive a $30,000 award (spread over four years).

• 480 additional students will each earn $4,000 scholarships.

 

All awards are renewable annually, contingent on full-time enrollment at an accredited U.S. college or university.

What the Judges Look For

Cole Swindell is bringing his energetic 'Happy Hour Sad Tour' to the Ford Wyoming Center in Casper on Friday, October 3, 2025.

 

Special guests Priscilla Block and Greylan James will join Swindell, ensuring an exciting night for local country music fans.

 

This tour coincides with the release of Swindell’s upcoming album, Spanish Moss, available June 27 and featuring “Forever To Me,” a heartfelt single inspired by his marriage and soon-to-arrive first child.

 

Tickets start at $36.50, with sales expected to move quickly due to high demand.

 

Premier Parking upgrades and easy access via Three Trails Road to Lot #11 make attendance even smoother for concertgoers.

 

Building on the success of his Platinum hits, Swindell’s Casper show promises a memorable evening of contemporary country brilliance.

Jay Mewes, best known as half of the cult duo Jay & Silent Bob, brings his stand-up tour, Diary of a Man-Child, to Casper’s historic Rialto Theater on October 4, 2025.

 

Fans can catch Mewes’ bold, unfiltered comedy in two intimate shows, with doors opening at 6:00 PM and 8:45 PM.

 

The performances offer a rare look at his evolution from Hollywood troublemaker to reflective performer, sharing genuine stories of recovery, personal growth, and the highs and lows of adulthood.

 

This event is accessible—and exclusive to those aged 21 and older, ensuring an open, mature atmosphere.

 

For Casper, hosting Mewes marks another step in establishing itself as a hub for national entertainment, promising a night of laughs and inspiration for the community.

Wyoming Pop Culture Con 2025 returns to Casper on October 4th and 5th, promising a dynamic celebration of fandom and creativity for all ages.

 

Admission is free for everyone, making this year’s event more accessible than ever.

 

The convention takes place at Eastridge Mall, 601 SE Wyoming Blvd, running from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Saturday and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Sunday.

 

Fans can expect appearances by TV actors, voiceover stars from games and anime, as well as celebrated comic book artists.

 

The venue will buzz with unique vendors, rare comics, and exclusive collectibles.

 

Attendees can meet artists, secure autographs, and snap photos in costume.

 

Engaging events, and vibrant photo opportunities are in store, with announcements coming soon.

 

Food trucks and nearby hotels round out a weekend filled with energy and community spirit.

 

Don’t miss Wyoming’s ultimate pop culture weekend!

Major fishing regulation changes are coming to the Jackson Region in 2026.

 

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has lifted Jackson Lake’s long-standing October fishing closure, which has been in place for more than 70 years. Starting January 1, 2026, anglers will be able to fish Jackson Lake in October for the first time in decades.

 

Trout limits on the Snake River, just below Jackson Lake Dam, are also increasing—daily trout bag limits will jump from three to six, and length restrictions will be dropped for this section. This move encourages anglers to harvest more brown trout while keeping cutthroat trout limits unchanged at three, with only one over 12 inches allowed.

 

All updates take effect January 1, 2026—current regulations remain in place for 2025.

 

Local anglers are encouraged to review upcoming rules and fish responsibly to help preserve sustainable fisheries in Wyoming.

The Casper Police Department, along with the Natrona County Sheriff’s Office, Wyoming Highway Patrol, and local police departments, invites families to apply for the 2025 Shop With A Cop program.

 

This beloved holiday event helps underprivileged children in Natrona County enjoy a joyful season by shopping for gifts with law enforcement at Casper’s Walmart stores.

 

Children ages 3 to 12 who live in Natrona County are eligible, and preference is given to families who have not participated before.

 

Paper applications are available at all county law enforcement agencies, including the Midwest Police Department and Wyoming Highway Patrol.

 

Application deadline is October 15, with event days set for December 6 and 7.

 

This effort ensures local kids experience holiday cheer and positive connections with officers.