Good morning, Casper.

Ford Wyoming Center management announced that this July 4th will offer only a fireworks display without live music, vendors, or on-site activities due to rising costs and lower attendance.

The center said planning has begun for a new celebration in 2026 for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence — promising future events that better use public funds.

Ford Wyoming Center released a statement saying this year's Fourth of July Fireworks Festival will be scaled down because of declining attendance + rising costs and many other events drawing local interest.

The center said it will still show fireworks and plans to bring back a full festival next year.

Today in Casper, a free AARP document shredding event runs from 9 a.m. to noon at Hilltop Bank while the Natrona County Library holds a bag sale with no fee; local events include a Brewers Festival at 2 p.m., a Wheels for Meals Car Show from 10 to 11 a.m., Fair Fest from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and a 5-Year Anniversary show with Jalan Crossland, John Kirlin & The High Plains Drifters at 5 p.m. Later, 'SAW The Musical' starts at The Rialto at 6:30 p.m. — a funny take on a horror show — giving Casper a busy day of fun.

Casper police said that on Monday night a 46-year-old man broke into a city-owned building on West First Street causing a phone and internet outage for over 30,000 customers and damaging equipment including a sump pump and elevator control panels while hiding behind drywall and identifying himself as King Harry Windsor before asking for a lawyer, and he was charged with property destruction and criminal entry at his court appearance on June 25th.

This week Natrona County District Court held arraignments, rendered judgments and delivered sentences in several criminal cases — including theft, controlled substance offenses, THC possession, arson and voyeurism — based on court filings and information from the district attorney’s office.

Casper property owner Ben Steiner bought the historic Yesness Building at 114 W.

2nd St. months ago and discovered original wall treatments from the old 114 Club during renovations. He plans to restore the vintage features and convert the first floor—once a coffee shop—into a boutique tattoo and piercing shop as work continues.

Paul Krowski recently established the College Support Fund for Casper College—administered by the Casper College Foundation to benefit students.

The fund began with Krowski’s $7,500 gift and $7,500 in matched funds from the state and will grow with more donations to support the college’s goals.

Births at hospitals in Casper and other areas have dropped as lawmakers and health officials study gaps in maternity care caused by low birth volumes and financial stress.

Blue Cross Blue Shield will launch a maternity care program in July— and a new OB residency track in Cheyenne is set to start then to help boost care.

Natrona County Rockhounds Annual Rock Show

N/A — July 12-13 — Best Western Downtown Casper Hotel — $1 each or 6 for $5 — Enjoy a weekend of unique raffle items like an amethyst cathedral and a hunk of Wyoming jade.

Girls Volleyball Camp at WYO Sports Ranch

9 AM – 3 PM — WYO Sports Ranch — Bring your lunch — Hone your volleyball skills in a supportive camp environment.