Good morning, Casper.

Casper Police said an initial x-ray of a pressure cooker left on a Paradise Valley sidewalk Monday morning showed parts resembling those used in homemade bomb devices—further checks found no explosives but detected materials linked to illegal drug use, and a witness reported that a man placed the object hours earlier.

Michael Baker, a Kelly Walsh High School graduate, showcased his electrical skills at a national competition in Atlanta last month by placing 43rd in the electrical construction wiring contest—he built his skills at Casper College’s new Pathways Innovation Center and will begin full-time work with a local electrical contractor when he turns 18 this summer.

Kelly Walsh graduate Michael Baker placed 43rd in the national high school electrical wiring contest at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta last month.

He learned electrical work from his father and took classes at the Pathways Innovation Center — he will work full time for a local electrical contractor after he turns 18 this summer.

Verizon Cellular Plus in Casper will give away free backpacks filled with school supplies on August 2 from 10 a.m. to noon at its two local stores—children must be with an adult and supplies will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Casper College student Hannah Kerkes finished eighth nationally in technical drafting during an eight-hour competition held in Atlanta from June 23rd to 27th.

She used hands-on skills from High Country Fabrication to compete against top draft testers — a sign that strong industry partnerships prepare new professionals.

Michael Baker, a Kelly Walsh grad, placed 43rd at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta after competing in the electrical construction wiring category.

He built his skills helping his dad and training at the Pathways Innovation Center + plans to start full-time work with a local electrical contractor when he turns 18 this summer.

The Casper Spuds ended their summer season with a sweep of the Spearfish Sasquatch but missed the playoffs and saw eight players finish their time with the team.

New local owners Paul & Kristi Hack plan to extend the lease at Mike Lansing Field for at least five years to keep the Spuds in Casper.

Breakthrough Basketball Skills Camp

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — WYO Sports Ranch — Limited spots available — Enhance your basketball skills with high-intensity drills and expert coaching.

Sterling Drake Concert

7:30 p.m. — The Bloomery — Local cuisine available — Enjoy the soulful roots music of Sterling Drake amidst the beauty of Wyoming.

5150 Fest-Casper Wyoming

2-10 p.m. — David Street Station — Free entry — Celebrate summer in Casper with live local music and good vibes at the annual 5150' Festival.