On January 10, David Street Station's downtown ice rink invites families to its beloved Princess & Superhero Skate, where children in shimmering gowns or bold capes glide beside parents bundled up for winter.

 

The event promises more than playful costumes.

 

It transforms a cold January evening into a warm, communal experience, drawing neighbors out of hibernation to laugh, cheer, and connect around the rink.

 

Children, sometimes unsteady, hold tight to trainers or supportive hands, while friends savor slow laps and conversation.

 

Throughout winter, themed skate nights at David Street Station breathe life into downtown Casper, keeping the city center vibrant with both family-friendly and adult-focused gatherings.

 

More than entertainment, each ticket helps fund year-round community events, as the rink’s proceeds support free concerts and public programming.

 

The true magic is in the rink’s familiar, welcoming spirit—a reliable space that brings Casper together when it matters most.

ART321’s monthly ArtWalk enlivens downtown Casper, transforming a winter evening into a celebration of local art and community.

 

Residents gather in the warmth of ART321, greeted by familiar faces and the inviting buzz of a new exhibition opening.

 

The showcased works span experimental to deeply personal, and artists mingle comfortably with guests, fostering straightforward and engaging conversations.

 

This welcoming atmosphere distinguishes Casper’s ArtWalk from bigger city counterparts—there’s no pressure to be an “art person.”

 

Live music, local refreshments, and a sense of belonging draw people downtown, encouraging connections among neighbors and friends.

 

For many, the evening extends beyond the gallery as downtown businesses enjoy increased foot traffic, giving the local economy a modest but meaningful lift.

 

ArtWalks remind Casper residents that, even in the heart of winter, their creative community thrives close to home.

Last-minute shopping took on new meaning at the Procrastinators Unite Expo, an event that lit up Casper just days ahead of Christmas.  

This wasn’t a typical holiday market. Local crafters, authors, and artists transformed the venue with genuine creativity, offering handmade goods, unique art, and thoughtful stories behind every item.  

The community showed up in full force—curious, present, and energized to support something authentic.  

Casper’s makers didn’t just set up booths; they claimed a stage to share their passion and connect face-to-face with neighbors who truly care.  

For shoppers, it was a reminder that the best gifts come from the heart, not the warehouse shelf.  

Thanks to dedicated organizers and creative locals, the expo proved that Casper doesn’t just support local—it thrives on it.

As Christmas arrives and another year ends, we want to take a moment to sincerely thank all who make Casper Buzz possible.

 

To our readers, your trust, feedback, and everyday engagement inspire us to keep telling Casper’s real stories—the joyful, the tough, and the hopeful.

 

To our sponsors and local businesses, your support makes our mission a true partnership.

 

Together, you help amplify local voices and keep our community informed and connected.

 

This year, we witnessed neighbors uniting—from bustling community events to quiet gestures of kindness—that prove Casper is resilient and proud.

 

The holiday season reminds us that connection, gratitude, and care matter most.

 

From the Casper Buzz team, we wish you a Merry Christmas, peace, hope, and a future that’s proudly Casper Forged.

Buy Local Casper Magazine is launching its first edition, inviting all independent businesses in Casper to join this unique community project.

 

This bold initiative champions local entrepreneurship by offering community-driven promotion, including indoor digital billboards and enhanced social media presence for participating businesses.

 

Ad reservations come with a special bonus—a complimentary month on indoor billboard screens, providing valuable extra exposure as the year ends and a new one begins.

 

For Casper’s business owners, this effort is about more than just advertising; it’s about building connections, supporting neighbors, and fueling the local economy.

 

Buy Local Casper aims to help every entrepreneur succeed, cultivating a thriving local scene where the whole community wins. When Casper shops local, Casper stays strong.

 

To reserve your spot, call 307-215-9922 today.

The Casper Children’s Chorale delighted local families with their annual “Melodies of Christmas” concert this Sunday, December 14, at Highland Park Community Church.

 

Led by director Erin Zavodny and joined by Morgan Dailey’s Bel Canto ensemble, the children brought holiday favorites to life, including “O’ Come, O’ Come Emmanuel,” “Light a Candle,” and “Silent Night.”

 

Adding to the celebration, Resonate—a group of Chorale alumni ranging from 16 to 80 years old—performed “Patapan,” “The Work of Christmas,” and a heartwarming Christmas medley.

 

The evening fostered a deep sense of community and welcomed the true spirit of the season, as smiles filled the room and music brought Casper together.

 

The Children’s Chorale will return with a Spring concert in May, promising more joy and cherished local tradition.

Casper residents have a full slate of holiday activities and community events to enjoy from December 17 through December 24.

 

Backwards Distilling Co. hosts its festive 12 Days of Christmas Cocktails nightly, offering unique drinks for the season.

 

Families can meet Santa at the Natrona County Library or skate with Santa at David Street Station.

 

Drive-through Christmas Light Shows at Casper Speedway bring sparkling cheer, while the Yule Holistic Show and Holiday Open House at the Nicolaysen Art Museum add variety.

 

Younger kids can join Sewing: Felt Ornaments workshops, and adults will find Line Dance Lessons, Trivia Night, and Bingo & Beer at local venues.

 

Live music from Jessica Loobey and performances like Darci Lynne and Friends: Christmas Tour keep the entertainment rolling.

 

Local businesses also host networking and holiday parties, celebrating the season throughout the community.

Santa Claus brought festive cheer to the Ford Wyoming Center during an unforgettable morning as families gathered for the annual Breakfast with Santa.

 

Locals bundled up and arrived early, their excitement matching the North Pole’s holiday spirit.

 

The hardworking Ford Wyoming Center staff served up a delicious breakfast in a warm, welcoming setting where laughter and conversation filled the air.

 

Santa delighted young guests of all ages, listening to Christmas wishes, sharing stories, and celebrating the community’s kindness.

 

Parents snapped photos, siblings giggled, and the holiday spirit was truly alive throughout the event.

 

Togetherness and generosity stood at the heart of this special morning, reminding everyone of the true magic of the season.

 

Santa’s visit left everyone with full hearts—proof that in Wyoming, Christmas magic really does happen all year long.

On Saturday, Natrona County gathered in solemn unity to honor its veterans, trading celebrations for silent remembrance at local cemeteries.

 

Without fireworks, sales, or barbecues, residents joined veterans and families to lay wreaths—each a symbol of sacrifice—at the graves of those who served.

 

The event wasn’t about a single group or sponsor.

 

It was a community-wide movement, with local volunteers and organizations coming together to ensure no veteran was forgotten. The turnout and support exceeded all expectations, reflecting a growing commitment to preserving the stories and names of every hero.

 

As wreaths were placed and names spoken, an emotional but grounding sense of gratitude washed over those present.

 

This wasn’t just a ceremony—it was a collective promise: to remember, to teach, and to live our gratitude for the freedoms provided by local sacrifice.

 

In those quiet hours, Natrona County showed what Memorial Day is truly meant to be.

CASPER, Wyo. celebrated the arrival of 4,500 Wreaths Across America wreaths in Natrona County this week, the result of months of planning and spirited community support.

 

Volunteers, donors, and local organizations joined forces, ensuring every veteran’s grave receives a wreath as a symbol of deep gratitude.

 

Financial contributions, coordination, and hands-on effort all played vital roles in making the remembrance possible.

 

When the wreaths arrived, the Warbirds lent their energy, unloading all 4,500 wreaths in just 36 minutes, earning praise for their teamwork and respectfulness.

 

The community is now invited to help lay wreaths Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at the Oregon Trail Veterans Cemetery; volunteers of all ages are welcome.

 

The collective effort ensures Natrona County’s veterans will be honored with dignity and lasting community respect this season.

Casper’s December 8–14, 2025 holiday week is packed with festivities, community spirit, and local entertainment.

 

Catch the Holiday High Tea benefiting the Casper College Food Pantry, and join cattle producers for the Winter Roundup Convention kicking off at the Ramkota.

 

Music lovers can experience classical performances from the Wyoming Symphony Orchestra at the Senior Center or a festive string trio at Nicolaysen Art Museum.

 

Families won’t want to miss Skate with Santa at David Street Station or the Breakfast with Santa at Ford Wyoming Center.

 

Sports fans can cheer at the region’s high school basketball tournament, Compete Casper Classic, running Thursday through Saturday.

 

Evenings bring the drive-through Christmas light show, unique cocktails at Backwards Distilling, and laugh-out-loud moments at Gruner Brothers’ Comedy Night.

 

Round out the week with The Nutcracker youth ballet, Opera Wyoming’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas”, and community theater hilarity at Stage III.

 

Casper shines with something for everyone, all week long.

The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper is reopening its doors and gearing up for the annual 'Holiday on the Homestead' celebration on Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

This beloved community event offers a chance to step back in time and experience the season the pioneer way.

 

Families and visitors can enjoy delightful model train displays, live performances, and all-ages crafts that capture the spirit of early holiday traditions.

 

Jessie Horn, Trails Center Manager, shares excitement about welcoming everyone back and invites the whole community to celebrate history together.

 

Additional festive activities and performances are in store, with more details coming soon.

 

This free event is open to all at 1501 N Poplar St., Casper.

 

Call 307-261-7700 for more information.

Casper is entering a pivotal new partnership with David Street Station, taking a more active role in the maintenance and daily operations of the downtown landmark.

 

The city will now provide technical support for key systems at the plaza — including the splash pad, ice plant, and irrigation — broadening its previous role as only the landowner.

 

City staff will manage tree care and splash pad operations, while $500 per year is committed to irrigation materials.

 

This move complements the recent addition of a permanent ice rink chiller at the station, made possible by local fundraising efforts.

 

The upgrade means a longer skating season, expanding recreational opportunities for the community.

 

Popular annual events like Monster Mash and the lively Summer Market continue to draw crowds, reinforcing David Street Station’s role as Casper’s go-to hub for family fun.

 

By combining resources, the city and station aim to keep this venue vibrant for years to come.

The Natrona County Library is fast emerging as an essential, yet often overlooked, business resource for local entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners.

 

Beyond its traditional role, the library features private meeting rooms for client appointments and work, as well as new soundproof Business Center Pods—all offered free with simple reservations.

 

The spacious Crawford Room can accommodate larger events, seating up to 115 people and offering affordable rates for local businesses.

 

Businesses can access key tools, including computers, free high-speed internet, printers, and even loanable tech like hotspots and lighting through the Library of Things.

 

The hands-on Creation Station provides 3D printers and creative equipment, while The Studio supports video and podcast projects at no cost.

 

Honored as a Community Partner of the Year, the library continues to empower Casper’s business community with resources, training, and tailored support.

The second annual Free Community Thanksgiving Feast at Casper Elks Lodge #1353 brought hundreds of residents together, filling the historic building and stretching its capacity.

 

Long lines formed early, with more than 100 people waiting before doors opened, and cars filled blocks around 7th Street.

 

Throughout the four-hour gathering, a steady stream of families, seniors, and individuals arrived for a warm holiday meal and sense of belonging.

 

Volunteers, Elks members, and local leaders like City Council member Sweeny worked tirelessly in the kitchen and serving lines, ensuring every guest felt welcome.

 

A special shoutout goes to Nathan Soper, whose hands-on leadership and compassion helped transform the occasion into a cherished Casper tradition.

 

No one left hungry, and smiles filled the hall—highlighting how a simple act of kindness can unite a community.

Black Friday in Casper, Wyoming brings a wave of deals, with major retailers and beloved local shops offering serious savings.

 

Big-box stores like Walmart Supercenter, Target at Eastridge Mall, Best Buy, Home Depot, Menards, Kohl’s, and JCPenney kick off early-morning deals on electronics, apparel, home goods, toys, and more.

 

Beauty lovers can score discounts at Bath & Body Works and Ulta Beauty in Blackmore Marketplace, with buy-three-get-three offers and up to 50% off select brands.

 

Local shops—like Gear Up, WyoMade, Fashion Crossroads, and Plato’s Closet—feature exclusive Casper-only doorbusters, time-based discounts, and unique Wyoming gifts.

 

Eastridge Mall serves as the Black Friday hub, while downtown offers special sales and a more community-focused shopping experience.

 

From national steals to one-of-a-kind local finds, Casper’s Black Friday guide helps you shop smart and support your hometown.

Dreaming of your child gliding gracefully across the ice or showcasing their skills at a winter event?

 

The Casper Ice Arena is offering new ice skating lessons starting this December, giving local kids the perfect chance to learn the sport or take their skills to the next level.

 

Programs fit all ages and experience—from curious beginners to those mastering more advanced moves.

 

Options include the Snowplow Sam class for ages 4–6, foundational Basic 1 and Basic 2 for ages 6 and up, as well as Basic 3 for more seasoned skaters.

 

Each session costs $75 and runs most of the year, except during late spring and summer.

 

With spots known to fill quickly, early registration is highly recommended.

 

Contact the arena to ensure your child doesn’t miss this exciting opportunity—they could discover a remarkable talent on the ice.

Rib & Chop House in downtown Casper will permanently close its doors at 256 S. Center Street on December 31, 2025, after six years of serving the community.

 

Owner Chris O’Bryan attributed the closure to ongoing financial challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, which struck soon after the restaurant’s December 2019 opening.

 

Despite deep community involvement and cherished local fundraisers, the restaurant never saw customer numbers fully rebound to pre-pandemic levels.

 

To honor its legacy, the Rib & Chop House will host a farewell New Year’s Eve celebration featuring live music, a buffet, and a festive atmosphere for staff and loyal patrons.

 

Other Wyoming locations in Cheyenne, Gillette, Laramie, and Sheridan will remain open.

 

The closure marks a notable shift in Casper’s dining scene, yet downtown buzzes with lively events, like the 5150’ Festival and upcoming Christmas Parade, reflecting the area’s ongoing vitality.

In a historic celebration at War Memorial Stadium, Josh Allen became the first University of Wyoming football player to have his jersey retired, as his iconic No. 17 was unveiled during halftime of the Cowboys’ game against Nevada.

 

Allen, joined by his parents and former coach Craig Bohl, received a warm welcome from the sold-out Laramie crowd.

 

Fans, decked out in Allen’s signature colors, cheered as he thanked Wyoming for its enduring support.

 

From 2015 to 2017, Allen led the Cowboys to notable victories, racking up over 5,800 total yards and bringing home a bowl win.

 

Drafted seventh overall by the Buffalo Bills, Allen has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and clinched the 2024 NFL MVP title, boosting Wyoming’s reputation on the national stage.

 

Despite Wyoming’s narrow loss to Nevada, the day focused on Allen’s remarkable legacy and inspirational journey from unknown recruit to NFL superstar.

Casper and the surrounding metro communities are bustling with activity for the week of November 17–23, offering a diverse lineup for all ages and interests.

 

Highlights include Natrona County Commissioners Meeting, Family STEAM Night at The Science Zone, and youth programs like Lil’ Wranglers at WYO Sports Ranch.

 

Families can dive into festive fun with the Festival of Trees opening and hands-on cookie decorating classes, while music lovers will enjoy the Casper Civic Chorale Fall Concert and lively performances at local venues.

 

Nightlife options feature stand-up comedy, acoustic concerts, social dance nights, and community meetups such as Foodies + New Friends.

 

Specialty events include art round tables, speaker series at Casper College, and the SkillsUSA Fall Leadership Conference.

 

Whether you're interested in civic gatherings, creative workshops, or catching a game at The Drinkery, there's something happening in Casper, Mills, Evansville, and Bar Nunn to connect with neighbors and celebrate the season.

A sweeping power outage struck Wyoming and western South Dakota on Thursday, disrupting daily life for tens of thousands.

 

The blackout began around 12:45 p.m. when two critical 500-kilovolt transmission lines near Medicine Bow, Wyoming, failed, unleashing a regional grid disturbance. About 95,000 customers lost electricity by mid-afternoon, most in cities like Casper, Gillette, and Sheridan.

 

Rocky Mountain Power and Black Hills Energy battled to restore service—over 60,000 Rocky Mountain Power customers were affected, and the situation reached western South Dakota.

 

By 4:30 p.m., roughly half the service had returned, but officials warned of lingering instability.

 

Soon after the outage, a fire broke out at the Dave Johnston power plant near Glenrock. Emergency teams quickly put out the blaze, believed to be linked to the outage.

 

Communities faced facility closures, canceled activities, and heightened vigilance for residents needing medical equipment.

 

Officials urge continued preparedness and caution as restoration efforts proceed.

The Casper Police Department has promoted four standout members, underscoring its commitment to community safety and strong local leadership.

 

Kendra Guldan, a U.S. Navy veteran, steps into the role of Lead Animal Protection Officer after years of dedicated service and ongoing professional growth.

 

Sergeant Kellan Stenhaug, a Marine Corps veteran and two-time Life Saving Medal recipient, advances after excelling in multiple key roles since 2016.

 

Sergeant Andrea Husted brings a history of award-winning leadership, including Officer and Detective of the Year honors, boosted by her recent graduation from the Rocky Mountain Command College.

 

Sergeant Matthew Lougee, a former Army sergeant and Task Force Officer, earns recognition for his mentorship style and decorated service record.

 

These promotions reflect the department’s investment in experience, mentorship, and service, strengthening Casper’s safety and sense of community.

CitiWerks Café is breathing new life into downtown Casper, blending historic architecture with a modern hub for community and creativity at 162 S. Wolcott St.

 

Inside the restored 1896 building, visitors can savor expert espresso and hand-made chai beneath towering brick walls that speak to Casper’s past.

 

Baristas serve fresh pastries and locally beloved chocolates, while upstairs is a bright co-working space—complete with meeting rooms, high-speed internet, and a 3D printer—aimed at entrepreneurs and remote professionals.

 

CitiWerks stands out not only for its quality drinks and food, but for its mission to support connection and local growth.

 

This innovative spot invites freelancers, students, and innovators to share ideas and build Casper’s future—all with a cup of exceptional coffee in hand.

The Mills Planning & Zoning Commission has given tentative approval to new zoning regulations for simulcast and gaming businesses to protect local control before state legislation potentially changes gaming laws.

 

The commission also approved a site plan amendment for Vision Beyond Borders, allowing a delay in paving their parking lot until July 2026 due to contractor shortages, provided ADA spaces are paved immediately and access meets city standards.

 

The new zoning proposals restrict gaming operations to general commercial zones, establish required buffers from homes, schools, and churches, and require special operational standards, including parking, hours, landscaping, and police-approved security plans.

 

Existing gaming sites would be grandfathered in, though future ones must follow the updated rules.

 

Commissioners stressed the importance of acting before state lawmakers, aiming to keep final decisions in local hands.

The Wyoming Legislature’s Joint Corporations, Elections & Political Subdivisions Committee has decided to table a bill that would have banned municipalities from using taxpayer money for lobbying activities.

 

The proposal, 26LSO-0184, targeted any state or local agency funded by tax dollars, aiming to stop them from engaging in or funding lobbying efforts.

 

Local officials, including Pinedale Mayor Matt Murdoch, strongly opposed the measure, warning it could undermine the ability of municipalities to represent their residents’ interests.

 

Ashley Harpstreith of the Wyoming Association of Municipalities emphasized that their advocacy is funded independently, not directly by tax dollars.

 

Some legislators also raised concerns about potential conflicts with the Wyoming Constitution’s guarantees for citizens to assemble and advocate.

 

After legal and practical issues surfaced, the committee chose to delay action, highlighting ongoing tensions over the use of public funds and local government autonomy.

Casper residents are invited to join a vital discussion about the city’s budget, property taxes, and public funding allocations.

 

Casper City Council member Amber Pollock will lead the session, set for November 12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Mental Health Hub, 701 Antler Drive.

 

Hosted by Better Wyoming’s Natrona County chapter, the free event gives community members a chance to interact directly with local leaders and ask key questions.

 

Understanding city finances matters more than ever, especially after Casper reported a projected $1.8 million revenue shortfall for 2025 due to property tax reassessments.

 

Recently, voters approved a temporary 1% Specific Purpose Sales and Use Tax to support major projects, ranging from the Metro Animal Shelter rebuild to improvements at Washington Park Bandshell.

 

Active participation ensures community priorities are reflected in Casper’s future decisions.

Casper City Council focused on local priorities at its November 4, 2025 regular meeting.

 

Mayor Pacheco delivered a Veterans Day proclamation, honoring the service and ongoing contributions of Casper’s veterans with members of the Veterans Park advisory group in attendance.

 

During public comment, residents raised issues about holiday policies, government transparency, and the use of public funds, receiving clarifications from the city attorney.

 

Representatives from Casper Youth Baseball voiced concerns about the future of the Field of Dreams complex as their lease nears expiration, with city leaders promising open dialogue and cooperation on upgrades.

 

The council reaffirmed Casper’s inclusive non-discrimination ordinance while urging respectful civic discourse.

 

Members also approved contracts for local infrastructure and celebrated milestones such as the reopening of a Burger King and the upcoming Wyoming Senior Olympics.

 

The meeting closed after highlighting service, civic engagement, and key upcoming dates for public participation.

Casper City Council’s pre-meeting on November 4, 2025, highlighted budget season kickoff, the closure of the Veterans Park Task Force, and potential upgrades to Washington Park.

 

Finance Director Jill Will introduced the new budget calendar, setting the stage for extensive city planning and review.

 

Park Manager Randy Norvell and Task Force Chair Eric Distad celebrated a successful year for Veterans Park, including new ADA pathways, LED lighting, and military benches funded by generous local donations.

 

The park will remain the city’s official site honoring veterans, with future oversight by the Natrona County United Veterans Council.

 

Council also discussed a $1.5 million proposal for Washington Park improvements, including a sledding hill warming hut and safer power line burial, backed by a $750,000 grant request.

 

A police firearm purchase item was delayed for review, while the Washington Park grant resolution is expected at the next council meeting.

Sirius Power PC is setting a new benchmark for tech service with integrity and speed in Casper.

 

Founded by local builders and gamers, this startup is tackling delays, poor customer care, and inflated prices in the PC industry head-on.

 

Every computer is hand-built and thoroughly tested in the USA, with transparent updates throughout the process.

 

Owner Devin and his team’s commitment extends beyond performance — they actively support first responders, veterans, and service members with special discounts and partnerships, investing back into the Wyoming community.

 

After expanding into Casper, Sirius Power PC hired local technicians, providing new opportunities for area job seekers.

 

Their fast, personal touch proved invaluable to clients like Casper Buzz Media Group, who experienced same-day repair and transparent, expert care.

 

If you're seeking reliability and community spirit, Sirius Power PC is quickly becoming Casper’s local favorite.

Evansville Mayor Candace Machado has resigned after five years of service, citing a “broken political system” and reinforcing her commitment to transparency in an emotional farewell.

 

In her public statement, Machado reflected on significant town accomplishments, including a balanced budget, the celebrated 100-Year Town anniversary, a community garden, a new park playground, animal shelter, expanded mental-health support for employees, and establishing a code of ethics.

 

She also noted new grants and infrastructure that brought neighbors together in Evansville.

 

However, Machado strongly criticized persistent discrimination, bigotry, and a culture of silence within local government, declaring she could not stay in a system resistant to reform.

 

She will continue as a social worker, activist, and business owner, vowing to inspire and speak honestly.

 

The Town Council has not yet announced plans to fill the mayoral vacancy.

Mills City Council tackled major community issues at its October 28, 2025 meeting, including rezoning, a park name change, and ongoing efforts for a unique ZIP code.

 

The council heard spirited debate over rezoning Mountain Meadows Subdivision No. 2, Lot 2A from Urban Agriculture to Residential One, allowing for single-family homes.

 

While city staff supported the change, residents such as Donald Oaks and Francis Ackley raised concerns about drainage, flooding, and construction impacts.

 

Despite objections, the ordinance passed its first reading and will face further review.

 

Council also advanced the renaming of Mills Memorial Park to Service and Sacrifice Park, honoring local veterans and first responders.

 

Additionally, resolutions supporting a unique Mills ZIP code were approved, reflecting the city’s push for a distinct identity.

 

Residents can comment as the ordinances move to second readings at future meetings.

Casper City Council tackled a wide range of issues at their October 28 work session, with a local focus on safety, community, and city policy.

 

Poplar Street safety was a major concern after a student was struck, leading to a new crosswalk and an extended review of routes near Southridge and Crest Hill Elementary Schools.

 

A new Legislative Calendar was introduced by Flur Treml to ensure Casper stays proactive before the 2026 state session.

 

The Council agreed to continue the extra holiday tradition for staff, as outlined by Zulima Lopez.

 

Nomination dates for mayor and vice mayor were confirmed, with Ray Pacheco stepping aside for new leadership.

 

Upcoming community highlights include tree planting, downtown art, and expanded local events—showing Casper’s ongoing commitment to collaboration and resident well-being.

Casper’s annual “Tailgate for a Cause” will bring together football fans and community members to honor local veterans on Saturday, November 15, 2025.

 

The event hosted by Honoring 307 Heroes at the Best Western Downtown celebrates Wyoming pride while raising funds for Wreaths Across America.

 

Donations and ticket sales help ensure every veteran in Natrona County is remembered with a wreath this December.

 

This local nonprofit, founded by volunteers, seeks to remember, honor, and teach through direct action and education.

 

All proceeds go toward wreath purchases and supporting community ceremonies, where residents can gather to place wreaths and share stories on December 13 at four Casper sites.

 

The event highlights the strong bond in Casper, uniting neighbors to pay tribute to the sacrifices of local service members and keep their memory alive.

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 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.