Good morning, Casper.

Melissa Hugget, a Casper native with 15 years of community leadership, was named the new Executive Director of the Downtown Development Authority to revitalize downtown and support local businesses.

Her role will include business recruitment, economic development and public relations—efforts that aim to boost local shops and foster new opportunities in Casper.

On Friday, May 30, Casper hosted several events including the KW Graduation at the Ford Wyoming Center at 6 p.m., a Rebel Dance class at 6 p.m., a Knit a Pride Scarf session at thewoolandwhimsy at 5:30 p.m., live music by Damien Gunn at The Gaslight Social at 9 p.m., and stand-up comedy by James Camacho at 7 p.m.—each offering unique local celebrations for residents.

A 50-year-old homeless man, James Earl Severson, pleaded not guilty Friday in Natrona County District Court to stabbing a 57-year-old Casper man during a fight on March 6 at a Bar Nunn residence+police said they recovered three knives from him+bear spray was deployed during the altercation.

On Thursday, Natrona County Judge Catherine Wilking rejected a plea deal from 33-year-old Scott John Erskine—accused of abusing two children including a 1-year-old who suffered life-altering injuries—and sentenced him to 32 to 35 years in prison after reports of abuse emerged in October 2022.

On April 28, a Casper woman answering a burglary call opened her door with a pistol in hand and shouted 'Where the — are my children?' before officers fired five rounds, killing her, and an investigation is underway while the officers involved remain on paid leave.

Natrona County School District announced that Pineview Elementary teacher Zachary Ley was named the district’s 2025 Teacher of the Year.

He teaches fifth grade, leads math and science programs, and sponsors clubs and a mentorship program that help students grow.

Kelly Walsh High School held its graduation on May 30 with 476 students — the largest class in its 56-year history — at the Ford Wyoming Center, where families and friends gathered to celebrate the milestone.

The city of Casper announced that all public pools will open June 2—while the Marion Kreiner Pool is closed for summer facility upgrades funded by the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Grant.

The Marion Kreiner Splash Pad will be available free from June 2 to Aug. 9 and the other pools will operate with set hours and fees, with most closed on July 4.

Sgt. Joshua Daniel returned to Casper/Natrona County International Airport on Friday, May 30 after a nine-month deployment to Kuwait with the Army National Guard 2nd Battalion, 300 Field Artillery Regiment—his daughter Sapphyre, 17, said his absence was very hard to bear.

About 100 service members flew in from Fort Bliss in El Paso and another group is set to arrive by bus tomorrow.

Lumbar Spine Manual Therapy Workshop

6 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Wind City Physical Therapy — Registration required — Enhance your skills in managing low back pain using best evidence principles.

College National Finals Rodeo

Various times — Ford Wyoming Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrilling competition as college rodeo athletes showcase their skills in Casper.

STARbecue 2025

5:30-10 p.m. — Stage III Community Theatre — RSVP by June 18th — Celebrate incredible volunteers with BBQ, sneak peeks of the season, and karaoke fun.