Good morning, Casper.

Wyo4Kids launched a new community aid program in Natrona County today by partnering with the Department of Family Services; the initiative— which connects verified needs through the CarePortal system— links local churches and organizations with families in crisis to provide practical support such as clothing, cribs, and groceries.

Casper Youth Hub from Void Outreach is asking local teens to vote on 10 youth-designed summer programs open to ages 14 to 20 and choose the three to run in summer 2026 (survey closes Feb.

20) while also seeking skilled adult mentors to support the initiative.

A new 100-room Hyatt Place hotel is now welcoming guests just north of the Forest Drive post office (between Interstate 25 and the post office building) in Casper.

At the Wyoming State Spirit Competition on Friday, Kelly Walsh High School's dance team won state titles in Hip Hop and Jazz, while its cheer team finished second in the Game Day and All Girl divisions.

The teams showcased strong work ethic and community support.

USI Casper announced it will permanently close its location on Feb.

6 due to funding challenges and rising operational costs. The program supported unaccompanied homeless students (over 100 served) for five years while now planning to restructure its operations.

Wyoming wildlife officials announced that local volunteer groups protecting the sage grouse have ended their conservation work after more than 20 years due to funding changes and updated state policies.

The state will host an annual summit to gather public input on new conservation measures.

Wyoming wildlife officials ended the local volunteer program (over 20 years) that tracked sage grouse; the state will host an annual sage grouse summit soon to review conservation plans as the species continues its decline.

Mule Deer Foundation Banquet

5-10 p.m. — The Hangar Bar & Grill — Early Bird Special available — Celebrate mule deer conservation with raffles, silent and live auctions, and more.

Emo Night Karaoke

6-10 p.m. — Oil City Beer Company — $10 presale, $15 day of show — Sing your favorite emo and pop punk classics with a live band backing you up.

Kinser Jazz Festival

8 AM – 4 AM — Casper College — Ticket prices vary — Experience a captivating jazz festival featuring top adjudicators and Grammy-winning artists.

Yappy Hour Fundraiser

8 p.m. — Yesness Pond — Supporting the Casper Humane Society — Enjoy a fun evening benefiting furry friends and their caretakers.

Valuation Concepts Seminar

8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — Ramkota Hotel — $250 or $225 for AI members — Explore the varied meanings of valuation terms with real-world examples and case studies.