KKTY News...
KKTY Noon News on Tue 6/16/26
There will be no 4th of July fireworks in Douglas this year.
The Douglas Volunteer Fire Department has canceled its annual Fourth of July community fireworks display because of extreme fire danger and ongoing drought conditions across Converse County and much of Wyoming.
Fire officials say Red Flag conditions have been frequent and are expected to continue.
The department will still host a free community breakfast on Saturday, July 4 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Douglas Fire Training Facility on North Second Street and will consider a fireworks display at a later date if conditions improve.
Stage one fire restrictions that ban fireworks in the county have been in place in Converse County since late March. 061626
The Douglas Volunteer Fire Department has canceled its annual Fourth of July community fireworks display because of extreme fire danger and ongoing drought conditions across Converse County and much of Wyoming.
Fire officials say Red Flag conditions have been frequent and are expected to continue.
The department will still host a free community breakfast on Saturday, July 4 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Douglas Fire Training Facility on North Second Street and will consider a fireworks display at a later date if conditions improve.
Stage one fire restrictions that ban fireworks in the county have been in place in Converse County since late March. 061626
Who gets to blow up fireworks, when and where?
The Douglas City Council held a special meeting Thursday morning to consider those issues.
The Council recently updated their fireworks rules, but dry, windy conditions mean fireworks may be completely illegal this year.
Interim City Manager Michelle Carter explained the ordinance under consideration...
The Douglas City Council held a special meeting Thursday morning to consider those issues.
The Council recently updated their fireworks rules, but dry, windy conditions mean fireworks may be completely illegal this year.
Interim City Manager Michelle Carter explained the ordinance under consideration...
The council voted 4-0 to pass ordinance 1071 on first reading.
The ordinance must still pass two more readings. 061226
The ordinance must still pass two more readings. 061226
Firefighters are battling another big blaze in the Nebraska Panhandle.
The South Fork Fire was first reported late Tuesday afternoon, and has grown to more than 23 thousand acres and 5 percent containment this morning. The fire grew by about 7 thousand acres overnight.
Highway 20 is closed from Harrison to Ft Robinson, and Ft Robinson is under mandatory evacuation. Preliminary evacuation notice is up for the residents of Crawford. Areas immediately north of Crawford are also under evacuation orders.
Evacuees are being directed to Chadron, Alliance, or Scottsbluff. 061126
The South Fork Fire was first reported late Tuesday afternoon, and has grown to more than 23 thousand acres and 5 percent containment this morning. The fire grew by about 7 thousand acres overnight.
Highway 20 is closed from Harrison to Ft Robinson, and Ft Robinson is under mandatory evacuation. Preliminary evacuation notice is up for the residents of Crawford. Areas immediately north of Crawford are also under evacuation orders.
Evacuees are being directed to Chadron, Alliance, or Scottsbluff. 061126
The Casper-Natrona County International Airport is exploring potential new airline routes beyond Denver and wants public opinion.
Airport officials say discussions with airlines have been underway for some time and are focused on identifying destinations travelers want, gathering passenger data and determining what service could be successful.
Officials say detailed proposals are being presented to airlines while conversations continue, in part on their facebook page.
The airport recently added another daily flight on United, and says community input will help shape future expansion plans. 061126
Airport officials say discussions with airlines have been underway for some time and are focused on identifying destinations travelers want, gathering passenger data and determining what service could be successful.
Officials say detailed proposals are being presented to airlines while conversations continue, in part on their facebook page.
The airport recently added another daily flight on United, and says community input will help shape future expansion plans. 061126
The State Loan and Investment Board has approved a $5.7 million Business Ready Community grant for infrastructure improvements in Douglas.
The funding will support sewer and water system upgrades, road improvements and water treatment plant enhancements related to a new apartment complex that will be built at the Seven Trails Commerce Center on the west side of town.
State and local leaders say the project will help address workforce housing shortages and attract private development.
Officials say housing availability remains a major challenge for business growth and employee recruitment across Wyoming. 061026
The funding will support sewer and water system upgrades, road improvements and water treatment plant enhancements related to a new apartment complex that will be built at the Seven Trails Commerce Center on the west side of town.
State and local leaders say the project will help address workforce housing shortages and attract private development.
Officials say housing availability remains a major challenge for business growth and employee recruitment across Wyoming. 061026
The City of Douglas has named its first manager for the new Douglas Community Center.
Interim City Manager Michelle Carter introduced Jake Marcus to the City Council Monday night...
The City of Douglas has named its first manager for the new Douglas Community Center.
Interim City Manager Michelle Carter introduced Jake Marcus to the City Council Monday night...
Marcus owns JM Design LLC in Douglas. He's also served as Rec Program Supervisor at the Douglas Recreation Center.
The new Douglas Community Center is under construction on South Wind River Drive.
It's designed with three multi-use courts, a suspended running track, and community rooms to serve as a central gathering place with expanded, modern facilities. 061026
The new Douglas Community Center is under construction on South Wind River Drive.
It's designed with three multi-use courts, a suspended running track, and community rooms to serve as a central gathering place with expanded, modern facilities. 061026
The Converse County Clerk's office says as they gear up for the August 18th Primary they've found a gap - they're in need of election judges.
County Clerk Karen Rimmer says there are multiple spaces to fill.
County Clerk Karen Rimmer says there are multiple spaces to fill.
The job comes with a training and a paycheck.
But more than that, being an election judge gives one a sense of community pride.
For more information, call the county clerk's office at 358-2244, or get the application on the elections page of the website at conversecountywy.gov. 060826
Road construction projects are moving ahead in Douglas.
• South 4th Street is now expected to reopen around June 8, weather permitting. Some lane adjustments and cone zones will continue as final work wraps up.
• Center Street will reopen this week at the request of City Council. Please use caution, as businesses will continue using the street for deliveries while alley work is completed.
• The Richards Street Bridge Project is scheduled to begin on June 8. The bridge and pedestrian walkway will be closed during construction.
• The Richards Street Sidewalk Project is set to begin June 8, with a new sidewalk planned from 5th Street to Mesa Drive. Completion is expected in October. 060126
• South 4th Street is now expected to reopen around June 8, weather permitting. Some lane adjustments and cone zones will continue as final work wraps up.
• Center Street will reopen this week at the request of City Council. Please use caution, as businesses will continue using the street for deliveries while alley work is completed.
• The Richards Street Bridge Project is scheduled to begin on June 8. The bridge and pedestrian walkway will be closed during construction.
• The Richards Street Sidewalk Project is set to begin June 8, with a new sidewalk planned from 5th Street to Mesa Drive. Completion is expected in October. 060126
Wyoming officials are preparing for what could be an active and prolonged wildfire season, with drought and dry fuel conditions raising concerns statewide.
State Forester Kelly Norris says the Legislature funded two new wildland fire modules this year, including one based in Douglas.
Each module includes 10 firefighters, permanent leadership, a fire engine and suppression equipment.
Norris says the added resources will strengthen Wyoming’s ability to protect communities, infrastructure and natural resources during wildfire emergencies.
State Forester Kelly Norris says the Legislature funded two new wildland fire modules this year, including one based in Douglas.
Each module includes 10 firefighters, permanent leadership, a fire engine and suppression equipment.
Norris says the added resources will strengthen Wyoming’s ability to protect communities, infrastructure and natural resources during wildfire emergencies.
The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper will temporarily close June 12 for routine maintenance.
The Bureau of Land Management says the facility is expected to remain closed for at least 45 days.
During the closure, outdoor programs will continue while staff plan future programming and interpretive opportunities.
The BLM says updates will be provided when a reopening date is confirmed. 060126
The Bureau of Land Management says the facility is expected to remain closed for at least 45 days.
During the closure, outdoor programs will continue while staff plan future programming and interpretive opportunities.
The BLM says updates will be provided when a reopening date is confirmed. 060126
The City of Douglas is adding to the 4th of July fun this year.
At Tuesday night's meeting, the City Council voted to make the 4th of July a free day at the Douglas Municipal Waterpark, and voted to allocate $2800 dollars to bring in a live band to play in the street in front of the historic Hotel LaBonte.
Councilman Matt Schmidt said the band would play in early evening before the fireworks show.
At Tuesday night's meeting, the City Council voted to make the 4th of July a free day at the Douglas Municipal Waterpark, and voted to allocate $2800 dollars to bring in a live band to play in the street in front of the historic Hotel LaBonte.
Councilman Matt Schmidt said the band would play in early evening before the fireworks show.
The one-time expenditure would be a part of the City's celebration of the nation's 250th Birthday on the 4th of July. 052726
Converse County commissioners have rescinded a policy that created a local process for industrial park designations tied to proposed data center development.
The move follows guidance from the Wyoming attorney general stating counties lack authority to establish separate exemption procedures under the Industrial Siting Act.
The now-voided policy had been adopted in April to streamline review of projects, including the proposed Prometheus Hyperscale data center.
Opponents say the rescission ensures full public review and environmental oversight moving forward. 052226
The move follows guidance from the Wyoming attorney general stating counties lack authority to establish separate exemption procedures under the Industrial Siting Act.
The now-voided policy had been adopted in April to streamline review of projects, including the proposed Prometheus Hyperscale data center.
Opponents say the rescission ensures full public review and environmental oversight moving forward. 052226
Samuel Mares American Legion Post 8 in Douglas will be paying tribute to our veterans on Memorial Day Monday.
Ceremonies begin at 7:00 AM at the Douglas Park Cemetery, followed immediately by breakfast at the American Legion. Breakfast is just $15 per person.
The public is invited to participate.
The Wyoming Military Department will host a Memorial Day ceremony May 25 at 11 a.m. at the Oregon Trail State Veterans Cemetery in Evansville.
The public event honors U.S. service members who died in military service.
Retired Lt. Col. Mark Johnson, senior Army instructor for Natrona County High School’s JROTC program, will deliver the keynote address.
Johnson served 31 years in the Army, including assignments in Germany, Panama, Saudi Arabia and Iraq. 052226
Ceremonies begin at 7:00 AM at the Douglas Park Cemetery, followed immediately by breakfast at the American Legion. Breakfast is just $15 per person.
The public is invited to participate.
The Wyoming Military Department will host a Memorial Day ceremony May 25 at 11 a.m. at the Oregon Trail State Veterans Cemetery in Evansville.
The public event honors U.S. service members who died in military service.
Retired Lt. Col. Mark Johnson, senior Army instructor for Natrona County High School’s JROTC program, will deliver the keynote address.
Johnson served 31 years in the Army, including assignments in Germany, Panama, Saudi Arabia and Iraq. 052226
Douglas High School has announced its 2026 Alumni Hall of Fame Class!
This year’s distinguished inductees are:
Corey Davidson, DHS Class of 1989
Robert Vollman, DHS Class of 1970
James Swan, DHS Class of 1967
Gay Bolln, DHS Class of 1961
Douglas Mayor and DHS Graduate Kim Pexton will be the keynote speaker for the event.
This year’s induction ceremony will be held on Saturday, September 12th, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Douglas High School Recreation Center Front Gym. 052226
This year’s distinguished inductees are:
Corey Davidson, DHS Class of 1989
Robert Vollman, DHS Class of 1970
James Swan, DHS Class of 1967
Gay Bolln, DHS Class of 1961
Douglas Mayor and DHS Graduate Kim Pexton will be the keynote speaker for the event.
This year’s induction ceremony will be held on Saturday, September 12th, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Douglas High School Recreation Center Front Gym. 052226
The University of Wyoming has honored the City of Douglas with its 2026 Community Partner Excellence Award in Experiential Education.
The award recognizes the city’s partnership with a university sustainability course that connected students with local projects involving water management, recycling and community planning.
University officials praised city leaders and staff for mentoring students and supporting hands-on learning opportunities that benefited both the community and the university. 052026
The award recognizes the city’s partnership with a university sustainability course that connected students with local projects involving water management, recycling and community planning.
University officials praised city leaders and staff for mentoring students and supporting hands-on learning opportunities that benefited both the community and the university. 052026
The Casper/Natrona County International Airport will add an eighth daily flight to Denver beginning this Thursday, May 21.
Airport Director Glenn Januska says strong local passenger numbers helped secure the added service from United Airlines.
First-quarter enplanements were up 8% over last year.
The extra Denver flight will operate Sunday through Friday, with seven flights scheduled Saturdays. 052026
Airport Director Glenn Januska says strong local passenger numbers helped secure the added service from United Airlines.
First-quarter enplanements were up 8% over last year.
The extra Denver flight will operate Sunday through Friday, with seven flights scheduled Saturdays. 052026
Wyoming Main Street has recognized eight communities with 2026 National Main Street designations for downtown revitalization and small-business support efforts.
Accredited programs include Laramie, Rock Springs, Sheridan and Gillette.
Affiliate communities are Douglas, Glenrock, Torrington and Evanston.
In 2025, Wyoming Main Street communities added 28 businesses, created 53 jobs and logged more than 12,000 volunteer hours. 051926
Accredited programs include Laramie, Rock Springs, Sheridan and Gillette.
Affiliate communities are Douglas, Glenrock, Torrington and Evanston.
In 2025, Wyoming Main Street communities added 28 businesses, created 53 jobs and logged more than 12,000 volunteer hours. 051926
A new law requires all Wyoming school boards to adopt policies regulating student cell phone and smart device use on school grounds.
The requirement follows passage of Senate File Thirty-Five that passed during the 2026 Budget Session.
School districts have until July 1st to submit their new policies.
Converse County School District #1 at Douglas is currently asking staff and parents to weigh in and submit comments to help determine what the local policy will be.
The Department of Education says the policies are decided per district with the goal of reducing classroom distractions and improve learning environments. 051926
The requirement follows passage of Senate File Thirty-Five that passed during the 2026 Budget Session.
School districts have until July 1st to submit their new policies.
Converse County School District #1 at Douglas is currently asking staff and parents to weigh in and submit comments to help determine what the local policy will be.
The Department of Education says the policies are decided per district with the goal of reducing classroom distractions and improve learning environments. 051926
A couple of items on the agenda for Monday night's Douglas Planning & Zoning Commission.
The board will consider a Type B development application for a 194 unit, 4 story apartment complex project to be built on the west side of Highway 59, and north of State Highway 93. The land sets between the new Maverik travel plaza and the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy.
The commission will also consider a request for a conditional use permit for an off-site electronic message display sign for Grasslands Market. The sign would be placed on the parking lot of the Hampton Inn Hotel, facing the I-25 exit 140 offramp.
Recommendations for both requests will be forwarded to the City Council for further action.
The Douglas Planning and Zoning Commission meeting begins Monday afternoon at 5:30pm in council chambers at Douglas City Hall.
The board's meeting is open to the public. 051826
The board will consider a Type B development application for a 194 unit, 4 story apartment complex project to be built on the west side of Highway 59, and north of State Highway 93. The land sets between the new Maverik travel plaza and the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy.
The commission will also consider a request for a conditional use permit for an off-site electronic message display sign for Grasslands Market. The sign would be placed on the parking lot of the Hampton Inn Hotel, facing the I-25 exit 140 offramp.
Recommendations for both requests will be forwarded to the City Council for further action.
The Douglas Planning and Zoning Commission meeting begins Monday afternoon at 5:30pm in council chambers at Douglas City Hall.
The board's meeting is open to the public. 051826
First-time exhibitors at the Wyoming State Fair now have a new guide to help prepare for fair season.
State fair officials released a 2026 roadmap and checklist covering entries, schedules, lodging, meals and navigating the fairgrounds.
The fair team, along with local 4-H educators and FFA advisers, say the guide is designed to make the first fair experience smoother, educational and fun for Wyoming families.
Follow the "Exhibitors" link at WYStateFair.com for more information. 051826
State fair officials released a 2026 roadmap and checklist covering entries, schedules, lodging, meals and navigating the fairgrounds.
The fair team, along with local 4-H educators and FFA advisers, say the guide is designed to make the first fair experience smoother, educational and fun for Wyoming families.
Follow the "Exhibitors" link at WYStateFair.com for more information. 051826
More diplomas were handed out this weekend.
Commencement exercises for the Class of 2026 were held Sunday at Wheatland, Guernsey, Lusk and Glenrock High Schools.
Douglas High School's graduation was the previous weekend.
Casper High Schools are later this month... Kelly Walsh on May 28th, and Natrona on May 29th. 051826
Commencement exercises for the Class of 2026 were held Sunday at Wheatland, Guernsey, Lusk and Glenrock High Schools.
Douglas High School's graduation was the previous weekend.
Casper High Schools are later this month... Kelly Walsh on May 28th, and Natrona on May 29th. 051826
The Wyoming State Fair is going to Washington, DC,
The Fair will participate in the Great American State Fair taking place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. in June as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Fair Manager Courtny Hinds says it's an opportunity to showcase agriculture and the fair industry, and what makes our state unique...
The Fair will participate in the Great American State Fair taking place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. in June as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Fair Manager Courtny Hinds says it's an opportunity to showcase agriculture and the fair industry, and what makes our state unique...
You can listen to a podcast of the entire conversation on the "Snapshot" page at KKTYOnline.com. 051526
For the past few weeks, Douglas has been on a NO OUTSIDE WATERING restriction in hopes of recharging the natural spring, the summer water source for the City.
But beginning this Sunday, moderate water conservation efforts will resume. All water customers are still required to reduce the application of water to landscaped areas by 25%.
Properties with even numbers will water on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Properties with odd numbers on Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Public & Commercial Green Spaces will water on Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Still prohibited...
Washing of hard surfaces (Sidewalks, Driveways, Parking Lots, etc.)
Wasting water by allowing it to run in the street
Watering during the heat of the day (10am - 6pm) 051426
But beginning this Sunday, moderate water conservation efforts will resume. All water customers are still required to reduce the application of water to landscaped areas by 25%.
Properties with even numbers will water on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Properties with odd numbers on Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Public & Commercial Green Spaces will water on Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Still prohibited...
Washing of hard surfaces (Sidewalks, Driveways, Parking Lots, etc.)
Wasting water by allowing it to run in the street
Watering during the heat of the day (10am - 6pm) 051426
Firefighters are working several wildfires around the region this afternoon.
The Rochelle Fire and the 102 fire have burned about 220 acres east of Highway 59 near the Converse/Campbell County line.
The Sandy fire has burned about 425 acres on the Nebraska side of the state line northeast of Torrington.
And more than 400 acres has burned in Dawes County southwest of Chadron, Nebraska.
Hot, windy weather is complicating efforts to control the fires. 051426
The Rochelle Fire and the 102 fire have burned about 220 acres east of Highway 59 near the Converse/Campbell County line.
The Sandy fire has burned about 425 acres on the Nebraska side of the state line northeast of Torrington.
And more than 400 acres has burned in Dawes County southwest of Chadron, Nebraska.
Hot, windy weather is complicating efforts to control the fires. 051426
Douglas voters may have an opportunity to renew the one percent optional sales tax this fall.
The Douglas City Council discussed the tax at Monday's meeting.
Douglas voters may have an opportunity to renew the one percent optional sales tax this fall.
The Douglas City Council discussed the tax at Monday's meeting.
That's Douglas Mayor Kim Pexton.
Councilman Perry Hershberger said that in Converse County, the tax is primarily paid by energy-related businesses...
Councilman Perry Hershberger said that in Converse County, the tax is primarily paid by energy-related businesses...
Tourism is also a big factor in the tax money collected.
The city's resolution asking the Converse County Commissioners to place the One Percent Sales Tax Question on the 2026 General Election ballot passed on a 4-0 vote. 051326
The city's resolution asking the Converse County Commissioners to place the One Percent Sales Tax Question on the 2026 General Election ballot passed on a 4-0 vote. 051326
Today's the final day to declare your party affiliation for the August 18th Primary Election.
Converse County Clerk Karen Rimmer says how you're registered will determine who you get to vote for in August...
Converse County Clerk Karen Rimmer says how you're registered will determine who you get to vote for in August...
If voters want to choose their party today, Rimmer says there's a couple of things you need to do...
Rimmer says there's no charge to pick your party, and a valid Wyoming drivers license will suffice for identification.
If a voter has had a name change or an address change, that information needs to be updated as well. The name on your ID must match the name on your voter registration. 051326
If a voter has had a name change or an address change, that information needs to be updated as well. The name on your ID must match the name on your voter registration. 051326
Falling U.S. fuel inventories and a 2.5-million-barrel drop in gasoline stocks pushed prices higher again this week, with Wyoming’s average up to $4.38 a gallon.
GasBuddy dot com says the nation’s average price of gasoline rose a nickle last week to $4.48 per gallon.
Platte County was selling the most expensive gasoline in the state, at $4.64 average.
Niobrara County had the cheapest, at $4.24 a gallon.
Natrona County averaged $4.32, and Converse County averaged $4.31. 051226
GasBuddy dot com says the nation’s average price of gasoline rose a nickle last week to $4.48 per gallon.
Platte County was selling the most expensive gasoline in the state, at $4.64 average.
Niobrara County had the cheapest, at $4.24 a gallon.
Natrona County averaged $4.32, and Converse County averaged $4.31. 051226
The Wyoming Main Street Advisory Board will meet in Glenrock this Thursday, May 14th, to discuss the program’s strategic direction and expanding its impact across the state’s downtown districts.
The meeting will be held at the Glenrock Town Square Upstairs Meeting Room from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is open to the public.
Virtual attendance is also available via Zoom. 051226
The meeting will be held at the Glenrock Town Square Upstairs Meeting Room from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is open to the public.
Virtual attendance is also available via Zoom. 051226
Mountain West Technologies Corporation has been named Member of the Year by the Casper Area Chamber of Commerce during the chamber’s annual awards event.
The honor recognizes the Casper-based internet and data center company’s leadership and community involvement.
It marks the fourth straight year Mountain West Technologies has received a major award from the Casper chamber. 051226
The honor recognizes the Casper-based internet and data center company’s leadership and community involvement.
It marks the fourth straight year Mountain West Technologies has received a major award from the Casper chamber. 051226
Uranium production is back in the news in Converse County.
American Uranium Ltd. has launched a new drilling campaign 15 miles north of Glenrock at its Lo Herma in-situ recovery uranium project.
The company says up to 55 holes will be drilled for resource expansion and infill work near Mine Units 1 and 2.
Executive Director Bruce Lane says the effort is aimed at boosting resources and reducing project risk ahead of a planned third-quarter 2026 resource update and scoping study. 051126
American Uranium Ltd. has launched a new drilling campaign 15 miles north of Glenrock at its Lo Herma in-situ recovery uranium project.
The company says up to 55 holes will be drilled for resource expansion and infill work near Mine Units 1 and 2.
Executive Director Bruce Lane says the effort is aimed at boosting resources and reducing project risk ahead of a planned third-quarter 2026 resource update and scoping study. 051126
Campaign signs get some attention from the City of Douglas.
In a social media post Thursday, City officials remind residents that ordinance now only allows signs, including but not limited to political signs, to be displayed in the city right-of-way for 90 days before an election.
That would be May 20th for the August 18th primary election.
Any signs already posted in the right-of-way should be removed by May 5th.
Any signage in the City's right-of-way not removed by May 5th may be removed by the City and can be picked up at City Hall. 050126
In a social media post Thursday, City officials remind residents that ordinance now only allows signs, including but not limited to political signs, to be displayed in the city right-of-way for 90 days before an election.
That would be May 20th for the August 18th primary election.
Any signs already posted in the right-of-way should be removed by May 5th.
Any signage in the City's right-of-way not removed by May 5th may be removed by the City and can be picked up at City Hall. 050126
Anglers across Wyoming may encounter challenging conditions this spring and summer as low water levels and rising temperatures affect fisheries.
Along the North Platte, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department says reservoirs like Pathfinder and Seminoe are unlikely to refill significantly, limiting boat access but not fish populations.
Glendo should continue to provide excellent walleye fishing. Glendo also offers good fishing for channel catfish, black and white crappie, yellow perch and the occasional largemouth bass.
Casper Region supervisor Matt Hahn says streams in the North Laramie Range like Deer Creek, LaBonte Creek and Horseshoe Creek could see low, warm flows. 043026
Along the North Platte, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department says reservoirs like Pathfinder and Seminoe are unlikely to refill significantly, limiting boat access but not fish populations.
Glendo should continue to provide excellent walleye fishing. Glendo also offers good fishing for channel catfish, black and white crappie, yellow perch and the occasional largemouth bass.
Casper Region supervisor Matt Hahn says streams in the North Laramie Range like Deer Creek, LaBonte Creek and Horseshoe Creek could see low, warm flows. 043026
Wyoming Republicans approved sweeping bylaw changes Saturday at their state convention in Douglas, setting up potential legal challenges.
Delegates voted before lunch to allow the party to vet, endorse and financially back candidates ahead of primary elections, defying state law.
Party Chairman Bryan Miller acknowledged likely lawsuits but said the GOP is prepared.
Supporters cite constitutional rights, while critics warn of legal risks and a possible power shift in key statewide and legislative races this year. 043026
Delegates voted before lunch to allow the party to vet, endorse and financially back candidates ahead of primary elections, defying state law.
Party Chairman Bryan Miller acknowledged likely lawsuits but said the GOP is prepared.
Supporters cite constitutional rights, while critics warn of legal risks and a possible power shift in key statewide and legislative races this year. 043026
Nurses will be in the spotlight in Douglas and across the state next week.
At Monday night's Council meeting, Douglas City Councilman Perry Hershberger presented a proclamation for Nurses Week...
Nurses will be in the spotlight in Douglas and across the state next week.
At Monday night's Council meeting, Douglas City Councilman Perry Hershberger presented a proclamation for Nurses Week...
Several local nurses were in attendance at Monday night's council meeting to represent their profession as they were honored. 042826
The City of Douglas is now under moderate water conservation measures effective Friday, March 27.
All customers must cut landscape watering by 25 percent and follow alternate-day schedules.
Even-numbered properties water Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday; odd-numbered Wednesday, Friday and Sunday; public and commercial spaces Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Prohibited uses include washing hard surfaces, allowing runoff into streets and watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Officials say compliance is needed to protect limited city water supplies. 033026
All customers must cut landscape watering by 25 percent and follow alternate-day schedules.
Even-numbered properties water Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday; odd-numbered Wednesday, Friday and Sunday; public and commercial spaces Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Prohibited uses include washing hard surfaces, allowing runoff into streets and watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Officials say compliance is needed to protect limited city water supplies. 033026
New high-density residential housing is moving closer to reality in west Douglas after approval of an Urban Renewal Development Agreement by the Douglas City Council.
The 4-1 vote Monday night cleared the way for 197 potential apartments and affordable housing units to be built in two phases across the Seven Trails area, north of Highway 93 and the new Maverik.
Demand on the city's water system was the most discussed issue before the vote.
Developers told the council that higher density apartment units were a good answer to the problem...
The 4-1 vote Monday night cleared the way for 197 potential apartments and affordable housing units to be built in two phases across the Seven Trails area, north of Highway 93 and the new Maverik.
Demand on the city's water system was the most discussed issue before the vote.
Developers told the council that higher density apartment units were a good answer to the problem...
Improved land improves collected property taxes.
The land where the apartments would be built is currently bringing in about $5 thousand dollars a year in property taxes. When built, projections show a tax income of $2 to $250 thousand dollars a year.
Potential groundbreaking for the $40 million dollar project could be as soon as this April. Completion of 98 units in the first phase is projected for the summer of 2027, and the second phase would open in the summer of 2029. 032726
The land where the apartments would be built is currently bringing in about $5 thousand dollars a year in property taxes. When built, projections show a tax income of $2 to $250 thousand dollars a year.
Potential groundbreaking for the $40 million dollar project could be as soon as this April. Completion of 98 units in the first phase is projected for the summer of 2027, and the second phase would open in the summer of 2029. 032726
The City of Douglas is making adjustments to traffic control in the downtown construction zone.
A temporary 4 way stop has been put in place by the hospital and the courthouse at the intersection of 5th and Center Street.
This change is to mitigate traffic issues with the hill up Center Street creating a blind spot for vehicles moving northward.
Please obey all traffic signs and remember to come to a complete stop at all posted stop signs. 032726
A temporary 4 way stop has been put in place by the hospital and the courthouse at the intersection of 5th and Center Street.
This change is to mitigate traffic issues with the hill up Center Street creating a blind spot for vehicles moving northward.
Please obey all traffic signs and remember to come to a complete stop at all posted stop signs. 032726
A much earlier start than usual for the fire season.
Converse County commissioners held a special meeting Tuesday to impose stage one fire restrictions in the county.
The stage one restrictions aren't unusual, but they don't normally go into effect until late June or early July.
With wildfires small and large already igniting around the region, the commissioners opted to activate early.
The ban covers open flames and fireworks, campfires, burn barrels, and cutting torches. Details are available at conversecountywy.gov. 032526
Converse County commissioners held a special meeting Tuesday to impose stage one fire restrictions in the county.
The stage one restrictions aren't unusual, but they don't normally go into effect until late June or early July.
With wildfires small and large already igniting around the region, the commissioners opted to activate early.
The ban covers open flames and fireworks, campfires, burn barrels, and cutting torches. Details are available at conversecountywy.gov. 032526
Douglas City Manager JD Cox attended his final City Council meeting Monday night.
Douglas City Manager JD Cox attended his final City Council meeting Monday night.
Cox has resigned to take the City Manager job in Alliance, Nebraska. Thursday is his final day in Douglas.
City Human Resources Director Michelle Carter will serve as interim city manager.
Douglas Police Chief Todd Byerly has also announced his resignation. Lieutenant Todd Matthews will serve as the interim police chief until the job is filled. 032526
Douglas Police Chief Todd Byerly has also announced his resignation. Lieutenant Todd Matthews will serve as the interim police chief until the job is filled. 032526
Three new Wyoming Game and Fish Wardens have transferred into the Laramie district.
They include Clayton McCall, who'll be stationed at Wheatland.
A University of Wyoming graduate, McCall has worked in a variety of positions in Wyoming, Idaho and South Dakota.
For the last 3 years, he has been a game warden in Granby, Colorado.
It's a return to the Wheatland district for McCall... he previously worked as a biologist technician at the Sybille Research Station on HWY 34 between Wheatland and Laramie. 032526
They include Clayton McCall, who'll be stationed at Wheatland.
A University of Wyoming graduate, McCall has worked in a variety of positions in Wyoming, Idaho and South Dakota.
For the last 3 years, he has been a game warden in Granby, Colorado.
It's a return to the Wheatland district for McCall... he previously worked as a biologist technician at the Sybille Research Station on HWY 34 between Wheatland and Laramie. 032526
New employees for the Wyoming State Fair in Douglas.
The Wyoming State Legislature approved funding for two new staff positions at the fair. Fair manager Courtny Hinds says the new employees will work Tuesday through Saturday...
The funding passed during a legislative session that featured a lot of discussion proposing budgetary cuts.
State Senator Brian Boner said adding staff will also reduce overtime costs that have been necessary to keep up with the growing number of events.
He said it's a practical step that both supports continued growth and improves fiscal management at the state Fairgrounds. 032426
State Senator Brian Boner said adding staff will also reduce overtime costs that have been necessary to keep up with the growing number of events.
He said it's a practical step that both supports continued growth and improves fiscal management at the state Fairgrounds. 032426
Converse County Commissioner Jim Willox announced he’s running for House District 6 in the Wyoming State Legislature, saying he’ll bring experienced leadership and practical solutions to Cheyenne.
The longtime commissioner and Douglas resident said Wyoming should support economic development, energy and agriculture while creating opportunities that keep young families in the state.
Willox, a Conservative Republican, said Wyoming needs policies driven by local communities, not outside influences. 031626
The longtime commissioner and Douglas resident said Wyoming should support economic development, energy and agriculture while creating opportunities that keep young families in the state.
Willox, a Conservative Republican, said Wyoming needs policies driven by local communities, not outside influences. 031626
Converse County School District #1 and the Douglas Police Department are investigating the electronic distribution of sexually explicit material involving Douglas Middle School students.
Officials are withholding identities and details to protect minors.
Parents are urged to check your children’s phones, messaging apps, and social media for inappropriate content and to report concerns directly to police.
Authorities stress the importance of online safety and responsible digital behavior while the investigation continues. 030926
Officials are withholding identities and details to protect minors.
Parents are urged to check your children’s phones, messaging apps, and social media for inappropriate content and to report concerns directly to police.
Authorities stress the importance of online safety and responsible digital behavior while the investigation continues. 030926
Wyoming Game & Fish has announced changes to spring flushing flows on the North Platte River below Gray Reef Dam at Alcova.
Due to equipment issues, flushing flows on the river will now begin at 7:30 AM, Monday through Thursday.
All other days through March 14: The flushing flows will begin at 3:00 a.m.
Anglers who are on the water early in the morning should be aware that North Platte water levels will increase starting at 7:30 a.m. 030926
Due to equipment issues, flushing flows on the river will now begin at 7:30 AM, Monday through Thursday.
All other days through March 14: The flushing flows will begin at 3:00 a.m.
Anglers who are on the water early in the morning should be aware that North Platte water levels will increase starting at 7:30 a.m. 030926
Casper-based Bridger Pipeline has proposed a 645-mile expansion to move Canadian crude from Phillips County, Montana, to its storage and interconnect facility near Guernsey.
The project could ship up to 550,000 barrels per day, boosting access, not only for Canadian oil, but also for Powder River Basin producers to U.S. refineries and ports.
Bridger spokesman Bill Salvin says it would be the largest project in the company's history.
Industry groups say it could fill a gap left by the canceled Keystone XL pipeline.
In Wyoming, the pipeline would pass through Crook, Weston, Niobrara, Goshen and Platte counties.
Connecting in Guernsey allows product to be transported to refining hubs like Cushing, Oklahoma. 030226
The project could ship up to 550,000 barrels per day, boosting access, not only for Canadian oil, but also for Powder River Basin producers to U.S. refineries and ports.
Bridger spokesman Bill Salvin says it would be the largest project in the company's history.
Industry groups say it could fill a gap left by the canceled Keystone XL pipeline.
In Wyoming, the pipeline would pass through Crook, Weston, Niobrara, Goshen and Platte counties.
Connecting in Guernsey allows product to be transported to refining hubs like Cushing, Oklahoma. 030226
A Glenrock business burned Sunday morning.
Fire was reported at the Ft Diablo Restaurant at about 9am.
Everyone got out safely.
No word on a cause of the blaze.
A GoFundMe page has been set up for owner Kevin Tate. 030226
Fire was reported at the Ft Diablo Restaurant at about 9am.
Everyone got out safely.
No word on a cause of the blaze.
A GoFundMe page has been set up for owner Kevin Tate. 030226
With the recent mountain snow, basin water content has increased a little... but we're still a long ways from where we need to be.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service says the snow water equivilant for the lower North Platte River Basin is at just 42 percent.
The lower North Platte Basin includes Casper, Douglas, Glenrock, Guernsey and Torrington.
The only drier spot in the state is the South Platte Basin from Cheyenne to Nebraska, at only 3 percent of average.
Northwestern Wyoming is in much better shape, at 90 to 110 percent, 030226
The Natural Resources Conservation Service says the snow water equivilant for the lower North Platte River Basin is at just 42 percent.
The lower North Platte Basin includes Casper, Douglas, Glenrock, Guernsey and Torrington.
The only drier spot in the state is the South Platte Basin from Cheyenne to Nebraska, at only 3 percent of average.
Northwestern Wyoming is in much better shape, at 90 to 110 percent, 030226
Expansion at Ayers Natural Bridge Park is a done deal.
Converse County Commission chair Jim Willox says they signed the sale agreement this week...
Expansion at Ayers Natural Bridge Park is a done deal.
Converse County Commission chair Jim Willox says they signed the sale agreement this week...
Willox says Converse County's newest commissioner was instrumental in making the deal happen...
The process to purchase the land was announced in November.
Natural Bridge Park is currently only about 18 acres.
The 220-acre tract surrounds the park on the east, south and west sides.
Willox said the commission will be working with local recreation groups and the Parks & Rec Board to develop uses for the land. 022726
Natural Bridge Park is currently only about 18 acres.
The 220-acre tract surrounds the park on the east, south and west sides.
Willox said the commission will be working with local recreation groups and the Parks & Rec Board to develop uses for the land. 022726
Governor Mark Gordon has declined to pursue removal proceedings against three Platte County commissioners after reviewing a November complaint filed by seven electors.
Gordon said the allegations did not meet the legal threshold for misconduct and called removal an “extraordinary remedy.”
He will not ask the attorney general to act.
The Governor said Platte County voters may weigh in during the August election cycle. 022626
Gordon said the allegations did not meet the legal threshold for misconduct and called removal an “extraordinary remedy.”
He will not ask the attorney general to act.
The Governor said Platte County voters may weigh in during the August election cycle. 022626
They were freezin' for a reason...
More than $10 thousand dollars was raised for Special Olympics Wyoming at Thursday's Jackalope Jump fundraiser at Douglas High School.
Teams and individuals worked hard to raise money for Special Olympics Wyoming, and all funds raised go to support programming and events for over 1,600 Special Olympics athletes statewide who compete year-round in Wyoming.
The air temperature was just 8 degrees above zero, and the water in the tank was 38 degrees.
45 jumpers participated in this year's Jackalope Jump, the 17th year of the Douglas event. 022026
More than $10 thousand dollars was raised for Special Olympics Wyoming at Thursday's Jackalope Jump fundraiser at Douglas High School.
Teams and individuals worked hard to raise money for Special Olympics Wyoming, and all funds raised go to support programming and events for over 1,600 Special Olympics athletes statewide who compete year-round in Wyoming.
The air temperature was just 8 degrees above zero, and the water in the tank was 38 degrees.
45 jumpers participated in this year's Jackalope Jump, the 17th year of the Douglas event. 022026
Wyoming lawmakers advanced a bill Tuesday declaring that splitting water molecules to make hydrogen is not a beneficial use of water under state law.
House District 6 Rep. Tomi Strock said House Bill 116 protects scarce water in an arid state.
The House Agriculture Committee passed the measure 8-1.
Focus Clean Energy has since dropped hydrogen from its Pronghorn project in Converse County, while Mark Gordon has supported the reworked plan. 021926
House District 6 Rep. Tomi Strock said House Bill 116 protects scarce water in an arid state.
The House Agriculture Committee passed the measure 8-1.
Focus Clean Energy has since dropped hydrogen from its Pronghorn project in Converse County, while Mark Gordon has supported the reworked plan. 021926
Single-digit temperatures returning to central Wyoming are driving a surge in demand at Wyoming Rescue Mission.
The Casper shelter reports a 16% increase in services this February compared to last year.
In January, it served nearly 8,800 meals and sheltered more than 290 people.
Leaders say inflation, housing instability and financial strain are pushing more local families into crisis. 021926
The Casper shelter reports a 16% increase in services this February compared to last year.
In January, it served nearly 8,800 meals and sheltered more than 290 people.
Leaders say inflation, housing instability and financial strain are pushing more local families into crisis. 021926
The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland are hiring seasonal workers for the upcoming recreation season and are encouraging local residents to apply.
Openings include recreation and visitor services, trail maintenance and resource management.
Positions are based in Colorado and Wyoming.
Officials say the hires will help improve trails, campgrounds and public facilities.
Applications open Feb. 20 through USAJOBS.gov. 021926
Openings include recreation and visitor services, trail maintenance and resource management.
Positions are based in Colorado and Wyoming.
Officials say the hires will help improve trails, campgrounds and public facilities.
Applications open Feb. 20 through USAJOBS.gov. 021926
The Wyoming House of Representatives has advanced a $5.1 million plan to create Wyoming’s first two professional wildland firefighting teams.
Lawmakers doubled funding for House Bill 36, backing eastern and western crews.
Possible home bases include Douglas in the east, and Lander in the west.
Supporters cite worsening fire conditions and thin statewide staffing. 021826
Lawmakers doubled funding for House Bill 36, backing eastern and western crews.
Possible home bases include Douglas in the east, and Lander in the west.
Supporters cite worsening fire conditions and thin statewide staffing. 021826
Douglas drivers will have to get used to a detour starting this week.
The City of Douglas will close three blocks of 4th Street, from Center south to Pine Street, beginning this Monday, February 16th, to do utility and street replacement work.
Detours will be in place, and drivers are advised to use extra caution.
The project is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2026. 021626
The City of Douglas will close three blocks of 4th Street, from Center south to Pine Street, beginning this Monday, February 16th, to do utility and street replacement work.
Detours will be in place, and drivers are advised to use extra caution.
The project is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2026. 021626
One of the most iconic rodeo photographs ever taken now appears on Wyoming’s new rodeo specialty license plate.
The plate features a 1903 photo by Burt C. Buffum from UW’s American Heritage Center.
State Sen. Brian Boner of Douglas sponsored the legislation, creating a new revenue source for college rodeo programs. 021326
The plate features a 1903 photo by Burt C. Buffum from UW’s American Heritage Center.
State Sen. Brian Boner of Douglas sponsored the legislation, creating a new revenue source for college rodeo programs. 021326
The Saving Grace Food Pantry in Douglas is finally opening their doors.
Over two years in the making, hosting mobile food pantry events in the meantime, they'll open to the public Tuesday and Thursday of this week.
The Monday open house for donors and contributing partners was to give a sneak peak and say a big thank you to all who helped make the permanent location become reality.
Hours are from 3-8 pm.
Tuesday the pantry will be opened to residents with last names beginning with A through M and Thursday it's for last names N-Z. 012726
Over two years in the making, hosting mobile food pantry events in the meantime, they'll open to the public Tuesday and Thursday of this week.
The Monday open house for donors and contributing partners was to give a sneak peak and say a big thank you to all who helped make the permanent location become reality.
Hours are from 3-8 pm.
Tuesday the pantry will be opened to residents with last names beginning with A through M and Thursday it's for last names N-Z. 012726
Wyoming State Sen. Brian Boner of Douglas is exploring a proposal that would redirect a slice of property taxes from wind, solar and other large industrial projects back to nearby landowners who have suffered negative impacts from the projects.
Boner says he’s studying whether a workable bill could send one-sixth of those taxes into county-run mitigation funds.
The idea came from State Treasurer Curt Meier, but Boner cautions the concept is still preliminary and likely won’t be ready this legislative session. 012726
Boner says he’s studying whether a workable bill could send one-sixth of those taxes into county-run mitigation funds.
The idea came from State Treasurer Curt Meier, but Boner cautions the concept is still preliminary and likely won’t be ready this legislative session. 012726
A renewable energy project in Platte County gets a green light from the state.
NextEra Energy resources says the Wyoming Industrial Siting Council has given unanimous approval to the Chugwater Energy Project.
Chugwater Wind will have a capacity of up to 300 megawatts of wind energy. Chugwater Energy Center will have the capacity of 150 megawatts of solar energy, combined with 150 megawatts of battery energy storage.
When the project is complete, it will have a combined capacity of approximately 600 megawatts of homegrown energy. 012126
NextEra Energy resources says the Wyoming Industrial Siting Council has given unanimous approval to the Chugwater Energy Project.
Chugwater Wind will have a capacity of up to 300 megawatts of wind energy. Chugwater Energy Center will have the capacity of 150 megawatts of solar energy, combined with 150 megawatts of battery energy storage.
When the project is complete, it will have a combined capacity of approximately 600 megawatts of homegrown energy. 012126
One person is dead after a two-vehicle crash in Converse County near Glenrock.
Wyoming Highway Patrol says the crash happened Monday, Jan. 12 on Highway 95 when a deer entered the roadway.
A Dodge swerved, crossed into oncoming traffic and hit a Chevrolet head-on.
Fifty-seven-year-old Cory Yingling was killed. Two others were not injured. 011526
Wyoming Highway Patrol says the crash happened Monday, Jan. 12 on Highway 95 when a deer entered the roadway.
A Dodge swerved, crossed into oncoming traffic and hit a Chevrolet head-on.
Fifty-seven-year-old Cory Yingling was killed. Two others were not injured. 011526
A former Douglas resident will help feed Wyoming.
First Lady Jennie Gordon’s Wyoming Hunger Initiative has named Tammy Ware as Southeast Regional Director, overseeing Albany, Goshen, Laramie, Niobrara and Platte counties.
A longtime University of Wyoming Cent$ible Nutrition Educator, Ware brings nearly two decades of experience addressing food insecurity.
She replaces Tim Sheppard, who served nearly six years before joining the initiative’s board of Directors in October of 2025. 011526
First Lady Jennie Gordon’s Wyoming Hunger Initiative has named Tammy Ware as Southeast Regional Director, overseeing Albany, Goshen, Laramie, Niobrara and Platte counties.
A longtime University of Wyoming Cent$ible Nutrition Educator, Ware brings nearly two decades of experience addressing food insecurity.
She replaces Tim Sheppard, who served nearly six years before joining the initiative’s board of Directors in October of 2025. 011526
The Wyoming State Fair is celebrating a historic awards season, earning five out of six possible Division One wins in national competition.
State Fair manager Courtny Hinds said they set a goal last year...
Fair officials say it’s the first time a single fair has achieved that feat in the International Association of Fairs and Expositions contests.
Hinds described the major awards that they brought home...
Hinds described the major awards that they brought home...
The Wyoming State Fair also finished with more than 30 top-three awards. 010726
A high-speed pursuit on Interstate 25 ended peacefully Friday after Wyoming troopers used a tactical vehicle intervention.
The chase began just north of Wheatland after a pickup was clocked at 93 miles per hour.
Authorities say the driver fled, hit spike strips in Converse County, then was stopped just south of Orin Junction near milepost 124.
The female driver was arrested on multiple charges. 010726
The chase began just north of Wheatland after a pickup was clocked at 93 miles per hour.
Authorities say the driver fled, hit spike strips in Converse County, then was stopped just south of Orin Junction near milepost 124.
The female driver was arrested on multiple charges. 010726
A 75-year-old man died Sunday after his car plunged into Wheatland Reservoir No. 1.
Wyoming Highway Patrol says the man was driving south on Wyoming 310 at a high rate of speed when his vehicle left the road, went airborne, and entered the water.
A fisherman witnessed the crash and alerted authorities.
Divers later recovered the body.
The victim’s name has not been released. 010626
Wyoming Highway Patrol says the man was driving south on Wyoming 310 at a high rate of speed when his vehicle left the road, went airborne, and entered the water.
A fisherman witnessed the crash and alerted authorities.
Divers later recovered the body.
The victim’s name has not been released. 010626
It's not somebody's laundry, out to dry.
The Boys and Girls Club of Douglas has intalled something special at the walking path trailhead — a Blessing Fence.
Hanging on this fence are warm winter clothing items, available free for anyone who needs them. If you or someone you know could use a little extra warmth this season, please take what you need.
And if you’re able, consider leaving something behind for another neighbor. A scarf, gloves, a coat — every small act of generosity makes a big difference as you share the warmth.
The Boys and Girls Club of Douglas says it's more than a fence; it’s a symbol of care, compassion, and community, and together, we can make sure no one faces the cold alone. 010226
The Boys and Girls Club of Douglas has intalled something special at the walking path trailhead — a Blessing Fence.
Hanging on this fence are warm winter clothing items, available free for anyone who needs them. If you or someone you know could use a little extra warmth this season, please take what you need.
And if you’re able, consider leaving something behind for another neighbor. A scarf, gloves, a coat — every small act of generosity makes a big difference as you share the warmth.
The Boys and Girls Club of Douglas says it's more than a fence; it’s a symbol of care, compassion, and community, and together, we can make sure no one faces the cold alone. 010226
Mandatory masking is returning to Banner Health's Wyoming Medical Center in Casper as flu cases rise.
All visitors, patients and staff must wear masks in patient areas, with free masks available at hospital entrances.
Visitors under 13 are restricted.
Seasonal visitor limits remain in place through March 31. 010226
All visitors, patients and staff must wear masks in patient areas, with free masks available at hospital entrances.
Visitors under 13 are restricted.
Seasonal visitor limits remain in place through March 31. 010226
Seventeen state parks and historic sites will hold free guided hikes on Jan. 1st, as part of the 15th annual First Day Hikes program.
First Day Hikes is a national initiative that encourages folks to start the year off right by being outdoors.
Locally, hikers can meet Thursday morning at 10 AM at the Wyoming Pioneer Museum Lobby, on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas for a 1 or 2 mile hike on easy terrain.
Hikes are also planned at Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park east of Casper. Meet at the Platte River Shelter at 10 a.m.
In the afternoon, there will be hikes at 1 PM at the Two Moon shelter at Glendo State Park, and from the main boat dock at Guernsey State Park.
All First Day Hikes are free, with with waived entry fees and chances to win annual state park passes. 123025
First Day Hikes is a national initiative that encourages folks to start the year off right by being outdoors.
Locally, hikers can meet Thursday morning at 10 AM at the Wyoming Pioneer Museum Lobby, on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas for a 1 or 2 mile hike on easy terrain.
Hikes are also planned at Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park east of Casper. Meet at the Platte River Shelter at 10 a.m.
In the afternoon, there will be hikes at 1 PM at the Two Moon shelter at Glendo State Park, and from the main boat dock at Guernsey State Park.
All First Day Hikes are free, with with waived entry fees and chances to win annual state park passes. 123025
While much of Wyoming is seeing record warmth and dryness, western mountains are posting 90% to 143% of average snowpack, according to state and federal meteorologists.
Experts say warm Pacific storms and blocked Arctic air are driving the unusual pattern.
The contrast has left valleys dry while high elevations build strong snowpack, boosting future water supplies.
Locally, we're just flat-out dry. Snow water equivalent along the North Platte River in Natrona and Converse Counties is at just 26 percent of normal. 122925
Experts say warm Pacific storms and blocked Arctic air are driving the unusual pattern.
The contrast has left valleys dry while high elevations build strong snowpack, boosting future water supplies.
Locally, we're just flat-out dry. Snow water equivalent along the North Platte River in Natrona and Converse Counties is at just 26 percent of normal. 122925
A giant wind turbine blade is getting new life in southern Converse County.
Casper sculptor Chris Navarro has turned recycled blade sections into a snow fence and public art piece called “The Wall of Renewal” at the Wyoming Rescue Mission ranch near Esterbrook.
The front side of the snow fence will feature a mural of wild horses running.
The pilot project aims to prove old turbine blades can be repurposed, blending renewable reuse, public art and winter road safety. 122925
Casper sculptor Chris Navarro has turned recycled blade sections into a snow fence and public art piece called “The Wall of Renewal” at the Wyoming Rescue Mission ranch near Esterbrook.
The front side of the snow fence will feature a mural of wild horses running.
The pilot project aims to prove old turbine blades can be repurposed, blending renewable reuse, public art and winter road safety. 122925
Local government offices will be closed for the Christmas holiday later this week.
Converse County's business and administrative offices will be closed Wednesday, December 24th at noon and all day Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25.
Normal county operations are scheduled to resume Friday, December 26, during regular business hours.
The City of Douglas will be closed all day Wednesday and Thursday.
Essential and emergency services will continue to operate as needed throughout the holiday period to protect public safety and respond to emergencies.
Residents who need to conduct city or county business are encouraged to plan ahead and complete time-sensitive matters before the holiday closure or after offices reopen on Friday. 122325
Converse County's business and administrative offices will be closed Wednesday, December 24th at noon and all day Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25.
Normal county operations are scheduled to resume Friday, December 26, during regular business hours.
The City of Douglas will be closed all day Wednesday and Thursday.
Essential and emergency services will continue to operate as needed throughout the holiday period to protect public safety and respond to emergencies.
Residents who need to conduct city or county business are encouraged to plan ahead and complete time-sensitive matters before the holiday closure or after offices reopen on Friday. 122325
A Utah-based company has landed a $42.9 million contract for major work along Interstate 25 in Casper.
WYDOT says W.W. Clyde & Co. will reconstruct bridges, replace utilities and install overhead sign structures, mainly between the McKinley Street exit and the Yellowstone overpass.
The project is the largest of eight contracts awarded in December and is scheduled for completion in June 2028. 122325
WYDOT says W.W. Clyde & Co. will reconstruct bridges, replace utilities and install overhead sign structures, mainly between the McKinley Street exit and the Yellowstone overpass.
The project is the largest of eight contracts awarded in December and is scheduled for completion in June 2028. 122325
Several Wyoming communities scored above the national average in the AARP Livability Index, a tool measuring quality-of-life amenities. Jackson led the state with a score of 65, earning the top spot for a second straight year.
Also earning top marks... Casper (59), Douglas (56), Wheatland (55), Glenrock (53)
The national average was 48. 122325
Also earning top marks... Casper (59), Douglas (56), Wheatland (55), Glenrock (53)
The national average was 48. 122325
Moving traffic out of the neighborhood.
Starting Monday, parents who dropoff and pickup Douglas Primary School students will follow a different route that won't involve driving in and out on Birch Street.
Converse County School District #1 superintendent Ryan Mackie says the change will hopefully clean up a twice a day logjam that's happened for many years...
Starting Monday, parents who dropoff and pickup Douglas Primary School students will follow a different route that won't involve driving in and out on Birch Street.
Converse County School District #1 superintendent Ryan Mackie says the change will hopefully clean up a twice a day logjam that's happened for many years...
Beginning Monday, the school district will implement a trial run of a new route up Cheyenne Street to Logsdon Lane on the east side of Bearcat Stadium, then west to the back of the primary school for student loading and unloading, around a loop, and back out the same way.
Mackie says it's a trial run to see if it works, and they'll be soliciting feedback from parents.
The district will have crossing guards in place to help move traffic in the right direction.
The traffic loop changes do not affect bus students.
Go to the school district's website, ccsd1.org, for more information. 120525
Mackie says it's a trial run to see if it works, and they'll be soliciting feedback from parents.
The district will have crossing guards in place to help move traffic in the right direction.
The traffic loop changes do not affect bus students.
Go to the school district's website, ccsd1.org, for more information. 120525
The Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas has put a stop to all equine activities due to an outbreak of EHV-1.
State Fair manager Courtny Hinds says there have been 14 confirmed cases of the equine herpes virus across the nation, with at least one known exposure within the State of Wyoming...
Hinds said this will affect roping schedules immediately...
State Fair officials said they'll continue to communicate with the equine community and provide updates as soon as it is prudent to move forward. 120325
Rocky Mountain Power says the cause of a massive outage that left more than 100,000 customers in Wyoming, South Dakota and Montana without electricity last Thursday remains unknown.
The utility says it’s investigating after widespread voltage disruptions shut down transmission lines and sparked a small fire at the Dave Johnston power plant at Glenrock.
No injuries were reported.
Federal regulators may also review the unusual, wide-ranging grid failure. 112025
The utility says it’s investigating after widespread voltage disruptions shut down transmission lines and sparked a small fire at the Dave Johnston power plant at Glenrock.
No injuries were reported.
Federal regulators may also review the unusual, wide-ranging grid failure. 112025
The Douglas Police Dept evacuated the 700 block between Hamilton and Erwin Streets due to a gas leak in the area on Tuesday afternoon.
Black Hills Energy crews were called in.
The evacuation took place at about 4:45pm.
The evacuation was lifted just after 7pm.
It was determined that the gas leak was in the alley between 7th and 8th Streets. 111925
Black Hills Energy crews were called in.
The evacuation took place at about 4:45pm.
The evacuation was lifted just after 7pm.
It was determined that the gas leak was in the alley between 7th and 8th Streets. 111925
The Douglas City Council will not pursue a charter ordinance against the state to provide more liquor licenses in the city.
The council took input from the public for almost an hour Monday night on the pros and cons of the proposed ordinance, as well as other ways to get the right types of licenses allocated to the right types of businesses.
Councilman Matt Schmidt said there are still other options to be considered...
The council took input from the public for almost an hour Monday night on the pros and cons of the proposed ordinance, as well as other ways to get the right types of licenses allocated to the right types of businesses.
Councilman Matt Schmidt said there are still other options to be considered...
The Council voted 5-0 against the ordinance on first reading. 111225
The Douglas City Council meets this afternoon for the first of their two regular monthly sessions.
Among items on the agenda, Council will consider creating a charter ordinance that would seize control from the state for the number of retail and bar & grille liquor licenses issued by the city.
Council will also receive an update from Forslund and Associates on the city's water system, past present and future.
The full agenda for this afternoon's meeting is posted at the city's website, cityofdouglas.org.
City Council meets this afternoon at 4:00 at Douglas City Hall. Meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live on Vyve cable channel 9 in Douglas. 111025
Among items on the agenda, Council will consider creating a charter ordinance that would seize control from the state for the number of retail and bar & grille liquor licenses issued by the city.
Council will also receive an update from Forslund and Associates on the city's water system, past present and future.
The full agenda for this afternoon's meeting is posted at the city's website, cityofdouglas.org.
City Council meets this afternoon at 4:00 at Douglas City Hall. Meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live on Vyve cable channel 9 in Douglas. 111025
The Casper/Natrona County International Airport says Casper travelers will see some flight cancellations caused by the FAA and DOT reduction in flights across 40 major airports in the US.
Several flights between Casper and Denver have already been cancelled since Friday.
Travelers should make sure their information is accurate and up to date with their airline(s) and check their apps to stay informed on the status of their flights. 111025
Several flights between Casper and Denver have already been cancelled since Friday.
Travelers should make sure their information is accurate and up to date with their airline(s) and check their apps to stay informed on the status of their flights. 111025
A busy county park is getting much larger.
The Converse County Commission announced Thursday that they've come to an agreement to purchase about 220 acres of land surrounding Ayers Natural Bridge Park west of Douglas.
Commission Chairman Jim Willox says it's a chance to grow and protect a park that sees a lot of use...
The Converse County Commission announced Thursday that they've come to an agreement to purchase about 220 acres of land surrounding Ayers Natural Bridge Park west of Douglas.
Commission Chairman Jim Willox says it's a chance to grow and protect a park that sees a lot of use...
Natural Bridge Park is currently only about 18 acres.
The 220-acre tract surrounds the park on the east, south and west sides.
The County will purchase the land for a little over $1.6 million dollars.
The acquisition is being made using the County’s mineral revenue reserves.
Closing is scheduled for January 5, 2026. 110725
The 220-acre tract surrounds the park on the east, south and west sides.
The County will purchase the land for a little over $1.6 million dollars.
The acquisition is being made using the County’s mineral revenue reserves.
Closing is scheduled for January 5, 2026. 110725
Veterans Day is this Tuesday, and local schools will be honoring those who have served.
The community is invited to attend a Veterans Day ceremony in the Glenrock Junior/Senior High School gym Tuesday November 11th at 2:30 p.m. to honor all local residents who have served in the United States military.
The American Legion and Auxiliary members of Jesse Martin Post #9 are encouraging all military veterans to come and be recognized for their service to our country.
Douglas High School invites all veterans to attend their annual Veterans Day assembly on Thursday, November 13th at 9:00 AM in the DHS Rec Center gym.
If you, a family member or a friend would like to be recognized, please call Douglas High School at 358-2940 with the name and branch of service. 110725
The community is invited to attend a Veterans Day ceremony in the Glenrock Junior/Senior High School gym Tuesday November 11th at 2:30 p.m. to honor all local residents who have served in the United States military.
The American Legion and Auxiliary members of Jesse Martin Post #9 are encouraging all military veterans to come and be recognized for their service to our country.
Douglas High School invites all veterans to attend their annual Veterans Day assembly on Thursday, November 13th at 9:00 AM in the DHS Rec Center gym.
If you, a family member or a friend would like to be recognized, please call Douglas High School at 358-2940 with the name and branch of service. 110725
That familiar thump will be less of a bump.
BNSF has announced that they'll be replacing the railroad track crossing on Center Street in downtown Douglas.
The crossing will be closed Tuesday, November 11th through Thursday, November 13th.
All traffic will be detoured to Clay Street, and East Richards Street. 110425
BNSF has announced that they'll be replacing the railroad track crossing on Center Street in downtown Douglas.
The crossing will be closed Tuesday, November 11th through Thursday, November 13th.
All traffic will be detoured to Clay Street, and East Richards Street. 110425
A 73-year-old hunter was airlifted this weekend after suffering heart complications in a remote area near the south end of Boxelder Road in Converse County.
The sheriff’s office says the man’s friend hiked about eight miles to the nearest ranch to get help before returning to guide rescuers.
Wyoming Life Flight located the hunter but had to land nearly a mile away.
Crews reached him on foot, and he was flown out in stable condition after a coordinated rescue effort. 102825
The sheriff’s office says the man’s friend hiked about eight miles to the nearest ranch to get help before returning to guide rescuers.
Wyoming Life Flight located the hunter but had to land nearly a mile away.
Crews reached him on foot, and he was flown out in stable condition after a coordinated rescue effort. 102825
Shots fired Thursday afternoon in downtown Douglas.
The Douglas Police Department says they responded to reports of shots fired in the area of Walnut and North 2nd Street at approximately 3:15pm on Thursday, October 23rd, 2025.
Officers responded and investigated the incident. Deputies from the Converse County Sheriff's Office and State Troopers with Wyoming Highway Patrol also responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.
Thursday evening, the DPD said there was no active threat to the community.
This has been deemed an isolated incident, and nobody was injured or harmed.
The Douglas Police Department wants to thank the citizens that reported this incident as well as assisted and cooperated with our investigation. 102425
The Douglas Police Department says they responded to reports of shots fired in the area of Walnut and North 2nd Street at approximately 3:15pm on Thursday, October 23rd, 2025.
Officers responded and investigated the incident. Deputies from the Converse County Sheriff's Office and State Troopers with Wyoming Highway Patrol also responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.
Thursday evening, the DPD said there was no active threat to the community.
This has been deemed an isolated incident, and nobody was injured or harmed.
The Douglas Police Department wants to thank the citizens that reported this incident as well as assisted and cooperated with our investigation. 102425
Chevron plans to decommission the long-inactive Casper Wind Farm north of Evansville.
The 11 turbines, each standing 240 feet tall, will be dismantled beginning in 2026, with site reclamation expected by 2029.
Company officials say the project never became a viable energy source.
Natrona County commissioners say the removal will clear the idle, 15-year-old wind farm from the landscape. 102425
The 11 turbines, each standing 240 feet tall, will be dismantled beginning in 2026, with site reclamation expected by 2029.
Company officials say the project never became a viable energy source.
Natrona County commissioners say the removal will clear the idle, 15-year-old wind farm from the landscape. 102425
A Wild West historian says she’s uncovered evidence suggesting Wyatt Earp’s first gunfight happened near Orin Junction, Wyoming — not Illinois, as previously claimed.
Researcher Janelle Molony discovered the story in a family diary from 1864 describing an Indian raid along the Oregon Trail.
It indicates a 16-year old Earp was riding as an outrider with the wagon train, and may have slung his first lead in the fight just east of Orin.
The finding could rewrite Earp’s early legend and add a new chapter to Converse County’s frontier history. 102125
Researcher Janelle Molony discovered the story in a family diary from 1864 describing an Indian raid along the Oregon Trail.
It indicates a 16-year old Earp was riding as an outrider with the wagon train, and may have slung his first lead in the fight just east of Orin.
The finding could rewrite Earp’s early legend and add a new chapter to Converse County’s frontier history. 102125
The Douglas High School Marching Bearcats performed Saturday at the WHSAA State Marching Band Festival in Casper...
The DHS Band earned an excellent rating, earned caption awards for marching and Winds, and received the Troopers Leadership award. 102025
A better home for hockey in Douglas.
The Douglas City Council has approved a request for $750 thousand dollars to help replace the Wyoming State Fair Show Center’s dirt floor with a concrete surface, drainage system, and cooling coils.
State Fair manager Courtny Hinds told the council that the fair would like to put a hard surface in the north barn...
The Douglas City Council has approved a request for $750 thousand dollars to help replace the Wyoming State Fair Show Center’s dirt floor with a concrete surface, drainage system, and cooling coils.
State Fair manager Courtny Hinds told the council that the fair would like to put a hard surface in the north barn...
The $2.2 million project will be funded through a regional partnership... $750 thousand dollars each from Converse County and the City of Douglas, $250 thousand dollars from Douglas Youth Hockey, and $450 thousand dollars from a grant from the Daniels Fund, through the Wyoming State Fair Foundation.
Hinds said it's a fast time-line...
Hinds said it's a fast time-line...
The new floor would still be a state project, so the state would handle the design and construction process.
The concrete floor, with cooling coils, would mean a faster setup and earlier access to the facility for Douglas Youth Hockey in the fall. 101625
The concrete floor, with cooling coils, would mean a faster setup and earlier access to the facility for Douglas Youth Hockey in the fall. 101625
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Conservatives gathered in Jackalope Square in Douglas Tuesday night for a vigil to remember the late Charlie Kirk.
Gatherings took place in cities and small towns across the nation to mark what would have been Kirk's 32nd birthday. In Douglas, Gabe Saint encouraged the crowd to stand up for truth... Saint is the head of the Turning Point USA chapter at the University of Wyoming, and a Douglas High School alumnus. He said there's a battle between good and evil...
Charlie Kirk's widow Erika accepted the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Donald Trump on Kirk's behalf on Tuesday. 101525
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After more than a half hour's discussion Monday night, the Douglas City Council decided to go to bid a third time to try to find a contractor to remove the facade and stabilize the city-owned property at 112 North Second Street,
The first bid had no takers; the second bid drew the interest of two contractors; one was too high, the other too low, and city staff said neither was satisfactory.
Douglas Mayor Kim Pexton expressed frustration with the process...
After more than a half hour's discussion Monday night, the Douglas City Council decided to go to bid a third time to try to find a contractor to remove the facade and stabilize the city-owned property at 112 North Second Street,
The first bid had no takers; the second bid drew the interest of two contractors; one was too high, the other too low, and city staff said neither was satisfactory.
Douglas Mayor Kim Pexton expressed frustration with the process...
Council voted unanimously to go to bid a third time with changes to the bid specs. The City still hopes to have the facade of the building demoed by the end of the year, and the infill work would by done by the end of spring 2026. 101425
The Wyoming National Guard will host its annual Military Ammunition Amnesty Day this Wednesday, Oct. 15, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Camp Guernsey Joint Training Center.
The event offers the public a safe, anonymous way to turn in military ammunition only.
Dangerous or unstable items should not be moved—call 307-331-4719 for safe removal assistance. 101425
The event offers the public a safe, anonymous way to turn in military ammunition only.
Dangerous or unstable items should not be moved—call 307-331-4719 for safe removal assistance. 101425
New owners for a local Douglas business.
Trevor and Amanda Panasuk have purchased Clay Street Laundry from Rick Marler.
The laundromat, located at Clay Street and North Second Street, will be open 7 days a week from 8am to 9pm. 101425
Trevor and Amanda Panasuk have purchased Clay Street Laundry from Rick Marler.
The laundromat, located at Clay Street and North Second Street, will be open 7 days a week from 8am to 9pm. 101425
A massive new data center project has been announced for the Casper area.
Prometheus Hyperscale, in partnership with Spiritus and Casper Carbon Capture, has announced plans for a $500 million facility straddling Natrona and Converse counties.
The site could grow to 1.5 gigawatts and employ up to 600 people.
Prometheus CEO Trenton Thornock says the project will generate its own power from natural gas fuel cells and operate carbon-negative, capturing its emissions underground.
According to company studies, the economic impact could reach $3.1 billion for the region.
The first IT-ready power is expected to be available in 2026. 101325
Prometheus Hyperscale, in partnership with Spiritus and Casper Carbon Capture, has announced plans for a $500 million facility straddling Natrona and Converse counties.
The site could grow to 1.5 gigawatts and employ up to 600 people.
Prometheus CEO Trenton Thornock says the project will generate its own power from natural gas fuel cells and operate carbon-negative, capturing its emissions underground.
According to company studies, the economic impact could reach $3.1 billion for the region.
The first IT-ready power is expected to be available in 2026. 101325
The Douglas City Council meets this afternoon for the first of their two regular monthly sessions.
Among items on the agenda, Council will consider two bids to remove and stabilize the facade at 112 North Second Street. City staff recommends declining both bids and rebidding the project;
will consider changes to Douglas Municipal Code regarding travel trailers and recreational vehicles;
will consider a request for $750 thousand dollars to help replace the Wyoming State Fair Show Center’s dirt floor with a concrete surface, drainage system, and cooling coils.
The total project cost is $2.2 million, funded through a regional partnership: Converse County ($750,000), City of Douglas ($750,000 – requested), Douglas Youth Hockey ($250,000), and grant funding ($450,000), with additional participation being considered by the Douglas Recreation Board. Last Wednesday, the State Building Commission unanimously approved spending authority, allowing the project to proceed with Level III design and construction. The City has been asked to consider a $750,000 contribution to the project.
The full agenda for this afternoon's meeting is posted at the city's website, cityofdouglas.org.
City Council meets this afternoon at 4:00 at Douglas City Hall. Meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live on Vyve cable channel 9 in Douglas. 101325
Among items on the agenda, Council will consider two bids to remove and stabilize the facade at 112 North Second Street. City staff recommends declining both bids and rebidding the project;
will consider changes to Douglas Municipal Code regarding travel trailers and recreational vehicles;
will consider a request for $750 thousand dollars to help replace the Wyoming State Fair Show Center’s dirt floor with a concrete surface, drainage system, and cooling coils.
The total project cost is $2.2 million, funded through a regional partnership: Converse County ($750,000), City of Douglas ($750,000 – requested), Douglas Youth Hockey ($250,000), and grant funding ($450,000), with additional participation being considered by the Douglas Recreation Board. Last Wednesday, the State Building Commission unanimously approved spending authority, allowing the project to proceed with Level III design and construction. The City has been asked to consider a $750,000 contribution to the project.
The full agenda for this afternoon's meeting is posted at the city's website, cityofdouglas.org.
City Council meets this afternoon at 4:00 at Douglas City Hall. Meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live on Vyve cable channel 9 in Douglas. 101325
Federal officials indefinitely postponed a Wyoming coal lease sale set for Wednesday after a surprise low bid in Montana.
The Navajo Transitional Energy Company offered just $186,000 for 167 million tons of federal coal — less than a penny per ton.
The Bureau of Land Management is reviewing that bid and says another date will be set for Wyoming’s 441 million-ton West Antelope III lease sale in the Powder River Basin.
That sale could affect operations at NTEC's Antelope Mine in Converse and Campbell Counties. 101025
The Navajo Transitional Energy Company offered just $186,000 for 167 million tons of federal coal — less than a penny per ton.
The Bureau of Land Management is reviewing that bid and says another date will be set for Wyoming’s 441 million-ton West Antelope III lease sale in the Powder River Basin.
That sale could affect operations at NTEC's Antelope Mine in Converse and Campbell Counties. 101025
Local kids will do their best to keep the cue ball out of the corner pocket on a new pool table.
Whitney Tomlinson is the Chief Operating Officer at the Boys and Girls Club of Douglas...
Local kids will do their best to keep the cue ball out of the corner pocket on a new pool table.
Whitney Tomlinson is the Chief Operating Officer at the Boys and Girls Club of Douglas...
The old pool table was much-loved...
Tomlinson said moving day was an adventure, with the help of Wyoming Amusement and Paquette Construction...
The Boys & Girls Club of Douglas offers a variety of educational and recreational activites for area kids and families. 100725
Members of the State Building Commission visited Douglas on Friday.
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray chairs the Major Maintenance Working Group, which oversees upkeep of state facilities.
He said tours of the Wyoming State Fair and Law Enforcement Academy provide important updates on the facilities major maintenance and facility needs...
Members of the State Building Commission visited Douglas on Friday.
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray chairs the Major Maintenance Working Group, which oversees upkeep of state facilities.
He said tours of the Wyoming State Fair and Law Enforcement Academy provide important updates on the facilities major maintenance and facility needs...
Gray was joined by fellow commission members and local lawmakers during the Douglas visit. 100725
Cheyenne Street will not become a truck route.
At last week's Council meeting, the Douglas City Council spent about a half an hour discussing and taking input on the possibility of making Cheyenne Street and the soon-to-be-paved Coulter Trail a truck route to East Antelope Road.
No one spoke in favor of the idea, but several local residents spoke in opposition.
CCSD1 Transportation Director John Bartling said that there are a lot of students and school busses using Cheyenne Street...
At last week's Council meeting, the Douglas City Council spent about a half an hour discussing and taking input on the possibility of making Cheyenne Street and the soon-to-be-paved Coulter Trail a truck route to East Antelope Road.
No one spoke in favor of the idea, but several local residents spoke in opposition.
CCSD1 Transportation Director John Bartling said that there are a lot of students and school busses using Cheyenne Street...
Bartling also said the school district is working on a plan that would move Douglas Primary pick-up and drop-off from Birch Street to Logsdon Lane, creating more traffic on Cheyenne Street.
Councilman Joel Weeks spoke firmly against the truck route designation...
Councilman Joel Weeks spoke firmly against the truck route designation...
Councilman Ron McNare said he's changed his mind on the proposal...
Without taking a formal vote, the Mayor and Council agreed that they would not pursue the Cheyenne Street truck route any further. 100125
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About a dozen Golden Shovels were put to good use Monday morning as local officials broke ground for the new Converse County Animal Shelter.
Chairman Jim Willox said the County Commission has been fortunate to invest in a lot of things in the community over the last several years...
Willox said the new animal shelter will give the LPHS volunteers an opportunity to better serve the community and its pets...
The current Douglas animal shelter was built in 1972. LPHS Executive Director Jen Clowers says the new building will allow much beter care for animals looking for a home...
The new facility is budgeted at just over $7.1 million dollars. Excavation for the Converse County Animal Shelter will begin in mid-October. Completion date is in the Spring of 2027. 093025
Fire restrictions were lifted last week across the Medicine Bow National Forest and Thunder Basin National Grassland in Wyoming.
Officials cite higher fuel moisture and favorable weather in rescinding restrictions that had been in place since mid-summer.
Visitors are urged to remain cautious, as late-season wildfires remain a risk.
More information is available at the Douglas Ranger District office on East Richards Street. 092925
Officials cite higher fuel moisture and favorable weather in rescinding restrictions that had been in place since mid-summer.
Visitors are urged to remain cautious, as late-season wildfires remain a risk.
More information is available at the Douglas Ranger District office on East Richards Street. 092925
Casper-Natrona County International Airport is planning a major remodel of it terminal facilities.
Plans call for moving rental car counters, adding a new baggage conveyor system and expanding restroom access.
CEO Glenn Januska says construction will begin in 2026, with completion expected around 2030.
The airport also plans a new 132-foot air traffic control tower and a state-led helitack base for firefighting aircraft. 092925
Plans call for moving rental car counters, adding a new baggage conveyor system and expanding restroom access.
CEO Glenn Januska says construction will begin in 2026, with completion expected around 2030.
The airport also plans a new 132-foot air traffic control tower and a state-led helitack base for firefighting aircraft. 092925
Local residents are encouraged to clean it out and get rid of it this weekend.
The Converse County Conservation District will hold their annual Household Hazardous Waste Day on Saturday, and you're encouraged to check your garages, basements, storage cabinets and other areas around your property for hazardous materials that may have outlived their useful life, have been stored for an extended period of time, or have containers that have deteriorated or are unsafe to handle.
Among the items to be collected are Paint, Household & Automotive Batteries, Pesticides, Herbicides, Solvents, Aerosols, Antifreeze and Small Quantities of Motor Oil.
Items collected during this event will be recycled, safely incinerated or deposited into an approved hazardous waste landfill.
The free Household Hazardous Waste Day will take place this Saturday from 10 til 2, behind the grandstands on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. Please enter from Cowboy Drive off Brownfield Road. 091825
The Converse County Conservation District will hold their annual Household Hazardous Waste Day on Saturday, and you're encouraged to check your garages, basements, storage cabinets and other areas around your property for hazardous materials that may have outlived their useful life, have been stored for an extended period of time, or have containers that have deteriorated or are unsafe to handle.
Among the items to be collected are Paint, Household & Automotive Batteries, Pesticides, Herbicides, Solvents, Aerosols, Antifreeze and Small Quantities of Motor Oil.
Items collected during this event will be recycled, safely incinerated or deposited into an approved hazardous waste landfill.
The free Household Hazardous Waste Day will take place this Saturday from 10 til 2, behind the grandstands on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. Please enter from Cowboy Drive off Brownfield Road. 091825
Douglas Police Lieutenant Todd Matthews has been honored by the City of Douglas.
At Monday night's City Council meeting, Matthews was recognized for 35 year of service to the community.
Police Chief Todd Byerly said Lieutenant Matthews sets the bar high for others in the department...
At Monday night's City Council meeting, Matthews was recognized for 35 year of service to the community.
Police Chief Todd Byerly said Lieutenant Matthews sets the bar high for others in the department...
Todd Matthews hired on with the Douglas Police Department fresh out of college in 1990. 091025
The Wyoming Department of Transportation says its Driver Services office in Douglas will close Monday, Sept. 22 at 12:30 p.m. through Thursday, Sept. 25 for employee training on new MAX and oneWYO software systems.
WYDOT says the upgrade will streamline services and allow more online transactions.
Closure details are posted on the agency’s Driver Services web page. 091125
WYDOT says the upgrade will streamline services and allow more online transactions.
Closure details are posted on the agency’s Driver Services web page. 091125
Converse County Search and Rescue volunteers carried out their 12th mission of the year over the weekend after a hunter was reported overdue.
The hunter was last known to be on the mountain south of the far end of Deer Creek Road.
Deputies, volunteers, and the Converse County Sheriffs Department drone were deployed in rugged terrain.
About three hours after the search began, ground crews located the hunter, who had fallen down a steep slope, suffering multiple injuries and hypothermia.
He was treated and flown to a hospital by Black Hills Life Flight. 090925
The hunter was last known to be on the mountain south of the far end of Deer Creek Road.
Deputies, volunteers, and the Converse County Sheriffs Department drone were deployed in rugged terrain.
About three hours after the search began, ground crews located the hunter, who had fallen down a steep slope, suffering multiple injuries and hypothermia.
He was treated and flown to a hospital by Black Hills Life Flight. 090925
The 97th Annual Wyoming Ram Sale takes place at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas today.
The Wyoming Wool Growers has historically conducted one of the premier Ram Sales in the region, offering the highest quality rams meeting some of the most rigorous standards of any sale in the country, and has consistantly rendered some of the highest prices for stud rams in the nation.
The 97th Annual Wyoming Ram Sale gets underway this morning at 11 AM at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. 090925
The Wyoming Wool Growers has historically conducted one of the premier Ram Sales in the region, offering the highest quality rams meeting some of the most rigorous standards of any sale in the country, and has consistantly rendered some of the highest prices for stud rams in the nation.
The 97th Annual Wyoming Ram Sale gets underway this morning at 11 AM at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. 090925
The Douglas City Council meets this afternoon for the first of their two regular monthly sessions.
Among items on the agenda, Council will consider approval on first reading of changes to Douglas Municipal Code pertaining to signs;
changes to municipal code regarding travel trailers and rv's;
and will consider approval of the use of existing budgeted funds to support a dedicated part-time Grant Writer position for the City of Douglas
The full agenda for this afternoon's meeting is posted at the city's website, cityofdouglas.org.
City Council meets this afternoon at 4:00 at Douglas City Hall. Meetings are open to the public. 090825
Among items on the agenda, Council will consider approval on first reading of changes to Douglas Municipal Code pertaining to signs;
changes to municipal code regarding travel trailers and rv's;
and will consider approval of the use of existing budgeted funds to support a dedicated part-time Grant Writer position for the City of Douglas
The full agenda for this afternoon's meeting is posted at the city's website, cityofdouglas.org.
City Council meets this afternoon at 4:00 at Douglas City Hall. Meetings are open to the public. 090825
Firefighters battled a blaze in the Converse County grass on Sunday afternoon.
The Sand Creek fire burned about 350 acres five miles northeast of Glenrock.
Radio traffic indicated fire crews were in mop-up mode by around 5 PM. 090825
The Sand Creek fire burned about 350 acres five miles northeast of Glenrock.
Radio traffic indicated fire crews were in mop-up mode by around 5 PM. 090825
Heavy fishing pressure on the North Platte River is leaving more trout injured, according to Wyoming Game and Fish biologists.
Most anglers practice catch-and-release, but studies show many fish suffer mouth and eye wounds from hooks.
New rules requiring barbless hooks will take effect in 2026 to help protect the river’s renowned trout fishery. 090325
Most anglers practice catch-and-release, but studies show many fish suffer mouth and eye wounds from hooks.
New rules requiring barbless hooks will take effect in 2026 to help protect the river’s renowned trout fishery. 090325
Douglas students will head back to class on Wednesday, and the Douglas Police Department has some important safety reminders.
*Please remember to obey all crossing guards, traffic signals, and school zone speed limits.
*Only drop students off in the designated drop off areas- dropping kids off across the street can be an unnecessary risk for kids to cross traffic without supervision.
*Remember that all passengers need to be in an appropriate seat, as well as seating location, and using the proper safety restraint. Children need to remain in their seats and buckled in until the vehicle comes to a complete stop.
*School zones will be heavily patrolled and enforced. 082025
*Please remember to obey all crossing guards, traffic signals, and school zone speed limits.
*Only drop students off in the designated drop off areas- dropping kids off across the street can be an unnecessary risk for kids to cross traffic without supervision.
*Remember that all passengers need to be in an appropriate seat, as well as seating location, and using the proper safety restraint. Children need to remain in their seats and buckled in until the vehicle comes to a complete stop.
*School zones will be heavily patrolled and enforced. 082025
Douglas Motorsports Park is preparing for its final race.
Central Wyoming Motorsports announced the closure comes as city and county leaders move forward with potential development of the racetrack property.
Officials say there’s no guarantee the venue could host a full season next year.
Instead, organizers chose to end on their own terms with one last event on Saturday, September 6th. 082025
Central Wyoming Motorsports announced the closure comes as city and county leaders move forward with potential development of the racetrack property.
Officials say there’s no guarantee the venue could host a full season next year.
Instead, organizers chose to end on their own terms with one last event on Saturday, September 6th. 082025
Congratulations to the 2025 WSF Parade Division Winners!
We are proud to announce this year’s winners and runners-up:
Non-Profit Division
Winner: Memorial Hospital of Converse County
Runner-Up: Saving Grace Food Pantry
General Division
Winner: Butch’s Propane
Runner-Up: NTEC
Youth Division
Winner: Geho Kids Mini Semi
Runner-Up: DHS Volleyball
Equine Division
Winner: Diamond McNabb Ranch Horses / Powderhorn Ranch
Runner-Up: National Pony Express
Collector Division
Winner: C.H. Brown Family
Runner-Up: Knight Kruisers Car Club
Winners will receive an engraved plaque and $150 in Jackalope Bucks. Congratulations also to our runners-up and every single entrant who helped make this parade a success! 081625
We are proud to announce this year’s winners and runners-up:
Non-Profit Division
Winner: Memorial Hospital of Converse County
Runner-Up: Saving Grace Food Pantry
General Division
Winner: Butch’s Propane
Runner-Up: NTEC
Youth Division
Winner: Geho Kids Mini Semi
Runner-Up: DHS Volleyball
Equine Division
Winner: Diamond McNabb Ranch Horses / Powderhorn Ranch
Runner-Up: National Pony Express
Collector Division
Winner: C.H. Brown Family
Runner-Up: Knight Kruisers Car Club
Winners will receive an engraved plaque and $150 in Jackalope Bucks. Congratulations also to our runners-up and every single entrant who helped make this parade a success! 081625
About 10 Wyoming communities have lost their local newspapers after News Media Corporation abruptly shut down operations Wednesday.
The Illinois-based company cited financial losses and rising costs.
Among the casualties... the Torrington Telegram, the Platte County Record-Times in Wheatland, weekly papers at Guernsey and Lingle, the Lusk Herald, which bills itself as "Wyoming's Oldest Weekly Newspaper.
In western Wyoming, newspapers at Evanston, Pinedale, Lyman and Kemmerer are now gone.
Closures weren't just in Wyoming; the corporation also shut down its newspapers in Arizona, Illinois and eastern South Dakota.
Editors say they weren’t allowed to publish a final edition, calling the closure sudden and devastating for their communities. 080725
The Illinois-based company cited financial losses and rising costs.
Among the casualties... the Torrington Telegram, the Platte County Record-Times in Wheatland, weekly papers at Guernsey and Lingle, the Lusk Herald, which bills itself as "Wyoming's Oldest Weekly Newspaper.
In western Wyoming, newspapers at Evanston, Pinedale, Lyman and Kemmerer are now gone.
Closures weren't just in Wyoming; the corporation also shut down its newspapers in Arizona, Illinois and eastern South Dakota.
Editors say they weren’t allowed to publish a final edition, calling the closure sudden and devastating for their communities. 080725
Water production in the City of Douglas continues to improve, albeit slowly.
On Wednesday, City officials announced that the bulk water station at Douglas Public Works is now open for all users, and the will begin selling bulk water to all.
Moderate water conservation measures remain in effect, including alternate watering days for even and odd addresses, a a restriction on watering during the heat of the day between 10 AM and 6 PM. 080725
On Wednesday, City officials announced that the bulk water station at Douglas Public Works is now open for all users, and the will begin selling bulk water to all.
Moderate water conservation measures remain in effect, including alternate watering days for even and odd addresses, a a restriction on watering during the heat of the day between 10 AM and 6 PM. 080725
Construction projects may affect your travel this week.
On Monday, Converse County Road and Bridge crews will begin grading and paving Coulter Trail between Cheyenne Street and East Antelope Road.
They'll be running belly dumps and end dumps down Cheyenne Street past the funeral home and the high school to East Richards, then out to I-25.
If traffic backs up, there may be some truck traffic on Mesa Drive to East Richards.
Also beginning Monday, WYDOT will begin sealing work on Center Street. Drivers should expect one-lane closures throughout the week.
And starting Monday, the Clay Street intersection to 2nd Street in both directions will be closed for about a week to allow the concrete in the new valley pans to completely cure.
2nd Street will remain open north/south during this time. 072825
On Monday, Converse County Road and Bridge crews will begin grading and paving Coulter Trail between Cheyenne Street and East Antelope Road.
They'll be running belly dumps and end dumps down Cheyenne Street past the funeral home and the high school to East Richards, then out to I-25.
If traffic backs up, there may be some truck traffic on Mesa Drive to East Richards.
Also beginning Monday, WYDOT will begin sealing work on Center Street. Drivers should expect one-lane closures throughout the week.
And starting Monday, the Clay Street intersection to 2nd Street in both directions will be closed for about a week to allow the concrete in the new valley pans to completely cure.
2nd Street will remain open north/south during this time. 072825
The Douglas City Council meets this afternoon for their second regular monthly session for July.
Among items on the agenda, Council will consider its options going forward with a new water well west of town.
The Wyoming Water Development Commission has completed a second Sheep Mountain Well for a possible additional water supply well for the City of Douglas.
But at 1350 feet, the well did not yield the water quality or quantity the project team had hoped.
The City now has the option to not accept the well, at no additional cost to the City, or proceed with the purchase of the well from the State. 072825
Among items on the agenda, Council will consider its options going forward with a new water well west of town.
The Wyoming Water Development Commission has completed a second Sheep Mountain Well for a possible additional water supply well for the City of Douglas.
But at 1350 feet, the well did not yield the water quality or quantity the project team had hoped.
The City now has the option to not accept the well, at no additional cost to the City, or proceed with the purchase of the well from the State. 072825
Firefighters got a workout in eastern Converse County this weekend.
The Bobcat Fire was reported Friday afternoon just east of DIckau Road and Flat Top Road.
It officially burned 217 acres.
Midday Sunday the Bobcat fire was listed at 95 percent containment.
FIrefighters are working two active fires in Natrona County Monday morning. The Muddy Fire is on the east end of Muddy Mountain, southeast of Casper. It's listed at 50 acres.
And single engine air tankers were called into assist ground crews on the Jarrard Fire off I-25 about 20 miles north of Casper. No estimate yet on the size of that fire. 072825
The Bobcat Fire was reported Friday afternoon just east of DIckau Road and Flat Top Road.
It officially burned 217 acres.
Midday Sunday the Bobcat fire was listed at 95 percent containment.
FIrefighters are working two active fires in Natrona County Monday morning. The Muddy Fire is on the east end of Muddy Mountain, southeast of Casper. It's listed at 50 acres.
And single engine air tankers were called into assist ground crews on the Jarrard Fire off I-25 about 20 miles north of Casper. No estimate yet on the size of that fire. 072825
The City of Douglas has begun the process of restarting the city's water treatment plant.
Turbidity levels in the North Platte River lowered late Thursday afternoon to 48, lower than the 50 needed to restart operations.
Due to the length of time for the plant shutdown, it will take a day or two to get the plant back up to operating speed.
City staff will continue to monitor the water quality conditions of the North Platte River during plant startup operations.
Water conservation measures remain in effect til further notice. 072525
Turbidity levels in the North Platte River lowered late Thursday afternoon to 48, lower than the 50 needed to restart operations.
Due to the length of time for the plant shutdown, it will take a day or two to get the plant back up to operating speed.
City staff will continue to monitor the water quality conditions of the North Platte River during plant startup operations.
Water conservation measures remain in effect til further notice. 072525
Stage 1 fire restrictions will take effect Friday, July 25, on BLM-managed public lands in Natrona and Converse counties due to dry conditions and high fire danger.
Campfires, smoking, chainsaw use, and welding are limited under the rules.
Year-round bans on fireworks, incendiary ammo, and off-road vehicles without spark arresters remain in place.
Visit blm.gov for full fire restriction details. 072525
Campfires, smoking, chainsaw use, and welding are limited under the rules.
Year-round bans on fireworks, incendiary ammo, and off-road vehicles without spark arresters remain in place.
Visit blm.gov for full fire restriction details. 072525
Water Conservation Measures remain in effect for the City of Douglas
A combination of high temperatures, low precipitation and muddy water in the North Platte River left the city pushing water production near its limit, and manditory conservation measures were put in to effect on Friday.
Douglas Mayor Kim Pexton told KKTY News that the response from the community was positive...
A combination of high temperatures, low precipitation and muddy water in the North Platte River left the city pushing water production near its limit, and manditory conservation measures were put in to effect on Friday.
Douglas Mayor Kim Pexton told KKTY News that the response from the community was positive...
Particulate levels in the river were still too high on Sunday morning, running 115 to 200 NTU... that number needs to be below 50 to run the city's water treatment plant.
City officials say they hope the river will clear up enough by midweek... until then,
Residents are asked to cut landscape watering by 50% and follow alternate-day schedules.
Properties with even numbers water on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Properties with odd numbers water on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
Public and commercial properties water on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Watering during peak heat hours from 10 AM to 6 PM and wasteful practices are strictly prohibited.
More information at CityOfDouglas.org. 072125
City officials say they hope the river will clear up enough by midweek... until then,
Residents are asked to cut landscape watering by 50% and follow alternate-day schedules.
Properties with even numbers water on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Properties with odd numbers water on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
Public and commercial properties water on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Watering during peak heat hours from 10 AM to 6 PM and wasteful practices are strictly prohibited.
More information at CityOfDouglas.org. 072125
The Outdoor Enthusiasts of Converse County will be opening a Bike Skills section to the newly open Douglas Mountain Trails City Park this summer.
Eli Geisler is president of the OECC...
The Outdoor Enthusiasts of Converse County will be opening a Bike Skills section to the newly open Douglas Mountain Trails City Park this summer.
Eli Geisler is president of the OECC...
A second phase of the trails park will go under construction later this year...
Local and regional funding partnerships have helped make the dream come true...
If you'd like to make a donation to the Douglas Mountain Trails project, it's a part of the Wyo Gives project today, at Wyogives.org. 071625
Dry summer weather is finally catching up.
At this morning's meeting, the Converse County Commissioners voted to immediately impose a partial fire ban in Converse County.
The ban prohibits all outdoor and open fires and the discharge of fireworks within the unincorporated areas of the County.
The ban also regulates other uses of fires, including campfires, burn barrels and charcoal grilles.
Converse County's partial fire ban goes into effect immediately.
Violation of the ban brings fines of up to $100 dollars, up to 30 days in jail, and restitution for any damages will also be required. 071525
At this morning's meeting, the Converse County Commissioners voted to immediately impose a partial fire ban in Converse County.
The ban prohibits all outdoor and open fires and the discharge of fireworks within the unincorporated areas of the County.
The ban also regulates other uses of fires, including campfires, burn barrels and charcoal grilles.
Converse County's partial fire ban goes into effect immediately.
Violation of the ban brings fines of up to $100 dollars, up to 30 days in jail, and restitution for any damages will also be required. 071525
Firefighters batted a grasslands blaze north of Glenrock this morning.
At 11 this morning, the Rolling Hills fire was mapped at 700 acres of light sagebrush, brush and cheat grass. .
The fire was contained after about three hours, with a lot of mop-up still to go. Multiple units were still on-scene.
No structures were threatened. 071125
At 11 this morning, the Rolling Hills fire was mapped at 700 acres of light sagebrush, brush and cheat grass. .
The fire was contained after about three hours, with a lot of mop-up still to go. Multiple units were still on-scene.
No structures were threatened. 071125
The Converse County Commissioners adopted the county's 2026 fiscal year budget on Tuesday.
Commission chair Jim Willox said they have a little more money to work with this year...
The Converse County Commissioners adopted the county's 2026 fiscal year budget on Tuesday.
Commission chair Jim Willox said they have a little more money to work with this year...
Willox said there's a couple of big projects in this year's budget...
The Converse County budget came in at a little over 83 million this year, including mills, sales tax, and all other sources of income combined. 071025
It's Fair Time in Douglas as the Converse County Fair opens this weekend.
The Youth Horse Shows are this Friday and Saturday at the Glenrock South Rec Complex.
The Converse County Youth Rodeo is Saturday night at 5 in the Ford Grandsatnds Arena on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas.
Activities go on through the week next week, with the Junior Market Sale next Friday afternoon at 4pm in the Ford Pavilion on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. 071025
The Youth Horse Shows are this Friday and Saturday at the Glenrock South Rec Complex.
The Converse County Youth Rodeo is Saturday night at 5 in the Ford Grandsatnds Arena on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas.
Activities go on through the week next week, with the Junior Market Sale next Friday afternoon at 4pm in the Ford Pavilion on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. 071025
More than 600 kids and their parents and brothers and sisters and their 4H leaders are in Douglas this weekend at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds for the 4H State Shooting Sports competition.
Kids aged 8 to 18 compete in archery, muzzleloader, shotgun, air rifle, air pistol,.22 rifle and .22 pistol.
Early competition began Thursday evening with archery and shotgun events. A full day of competition on Friday and Saturday. The awards program is at the McKibben Cafeteria on Sunday morning.
All events are open to the public. 071025
Kids aged 8 to 18 compete in archery, muzzleloader, shotgun, air rifle, air pistol,.22 rifle and .22 pistol.
Early competition began Thursday evening with archery and shotgun events. A full day of competition on Friday and Saturday. The awards program is at the McKibben Cafeteria on Sunday morning.
All events are open to the public. 071025
A green light for the new Douglas Community Center.
At a special meeting Monday afternoon, the Douglas City Council voted to approve a bid from GH Phipps Wyoming in the amount of 16 million, 356 thousand, 501 dollars to build the proposed Community Center.
Phipps had the lowest of four bids in front of the council, but the pricetag was not the only consideration. The City's original request for proposal was based on best fit, giving the city council some leeway in their choice of contractors.
Phipps is proposing to begin construction early next month, with substantial completion by August of 2026. 070825
At a special meeting Monday afternoon, the Douglas City Council voted to approve a bid from GH Phipps Wyoming in the amount of 16 million, 356 thousand, 501 dollars to build the proposed Community Center.
Phipps had the lowest of four bids in front of the council, but the pricetag was not the only consideration. The City's original request for proposal was based on best fit, giving the city council some leeway in their choice of contractors.
Phipps is proposing to begin construction early next month, with substantial completion by August of 2026. 070825
More recognition for a Douglas broadcaster.
Dennis Switzer was in Greensboro, North Carolina Monday to receive the Wyoming Sportscaster of the Year award from the National Sports Media Association.
The award was voted on by his peers in Wyoming sports broadcasting.
Other previous Wyoming broadcasters who have received the award include Dave Walsh, Kevin McKinney, TIm Ray, George Kay, Larry Birleffi and Curt Gowdy.
Switzer just finished his 30th year in the headphones as the Voice of the Bearcats football, girls basketball and boys basketball. 070125
Dennis Switzer was in Greensboro, North Carolina Monday to receive the Wyoming Sportscaster of the Year award from the National Sports Media Association.
The award was voted on by his peers in Wyoming sports broadcasting.
Other previous Wyoming broadcasters who have received the award include Dave Walsh, Kevin McKinney, TIm Ray, George Kay, Larry Birleffi and Curt Gowdy.
Switzer just finished his 30th year in the headphones as the Voice of the Bearcats football, girls basketball and boys basketball. 070125
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Roadwork is causing some detours this summer. Converse County Commission chairman Jim Wilox says road drews are working west of Douglas... |
Willox says there are periodic closures on RIdgewater Road as construction moves across.
There's another big project coming up on the east side of town...
There's another big project coming up on the east side of town...
There's a corner and a hill on Colter Trail...
Willox said they hope to begin paving Colter Trail in July or August. 063025
The Douglas Municipal Waterpark in Washington Park is closed this summer for renovations... but City Manager JD Cox told the Douglas City Council Monday night that the Rec Center Pool has been busy...
The Douglas Municipal Waterpark in Washington Park is closed this summer for renovations... but City Manager JD Cox told the Douglas City Council Monday night that the Rec Center Pool has been busy...
Renovation of the Washington Park pool is still slated to be completed later this fall. Work's running about a week behind due to recent rains. They're scheduled to pour the floor of the pool this Thursday. 062525
Two Anschutz Exploration oil wells here in the Powder River Basin are setting records.
The Theo Fed and Remi State Turner formation horizontals posted peak flows above 3,100 barrels of oil equivalent a day, with sustained high production months later.
Anschutz President Joseph DeDominic credits the results to long laterals, precision targeting, and lighter completions.
The Denver-based company holds 400,000 net acres under lease in the basin and is operating 26 wells. It is running one rig. Plans are to complete a dozen Turner formation wells this year. 062425
The Theo Fed and Remi State Turner formation horizontals posted peak flows above 3,100 barrels of oil equivalent a day, with sustained high production months later.
Anschutz President Joseph DeDominic credits the results to long laterals, precision targeting, and lighter completions.
The Denver-based company holds 400,000 net acres under lease in the basin and is operating 26 wells. It is running one rig. Plans are to complete a dozen Turner formation wells this year. 062425
Converse County School District #1 spent two years crafting a concealed carry policy for CCSD1 School employees.
On Wednesday night, the school board began the process of dismantling those rules.
CCSD1 assistant superintendent Ryan Mackey says new state laws outdated the district's policy...
On Wednesday night, the school board began the process of dismantling those rules.
CCSD1 assistant superintendent Ryan Mackey says new state laws outdated the district's policy...
An open comment period will be in place for the next 45 days.
On August 5th, the board will actually vote on whether or not they want to rescend the current rules. 062025
On August 5th, the board will actually vote on whether or not they want to rescend the current rules. 062025
No changes to this year's 4th of July fireworks show in Douglas.
Mayor Kim Pexton said they spent more than a half an hour Tuesday considering options.
No changes to this year's 4th of July fireworks show in Douglas.
Mayor Kim Pexton said they spent more than a half an hour Tuesday considering options.
The Douglas Volunteer Fire Department's show will remain at the high school parking lot...
The City Council may consider some rule changes before the next Independence Day... 061925
Your water pressure may be lower until Douglas city crews repair a break.
A major break has occured on the 20-inch water line coming off the city's Orpha tank on the west side of town,
That water line comes down from the tank and has a 90-degree feed that goes off to the north to feed the Law Enforcement Academy.
Water from the Orpha tank also feeds the town's other storage tanks.
You may experience lower water pressure as crews work to make repairs. Workers said they would be on the job until repairs are completed. 061725
A major break has occured on the 20-inch water line coming off the city's Orpha tank on the west side of town,
That water line comes down from the tank and has a 90-degree feed that goes off to the north to feed the Law Enforcement Academy.
Water from the Orpha tank also feeds the town's other storage tanks.
You may experience lower water pressure as crews work to make repairs. Workers said they would be on the job until repairs are completed. 061725
Governor Mark Gordon has appointed Jacqueline K. Brown as Circuit Court Judge for Wyoming’s Eighth Judicial District, serving Converse, Goshen, Niobrara, and Platte counties.
Brown, currently Casper’s Deputy City Attorney, fills the vacancy left by Judge Nate Hibben.
A seasoned attorney with experience in family and criminal law, Brown’s appointment takes effect July 9, 2025. 061325
Brown, currently Casper’s Deputy City Attorney, fills the vacancy left by Judge Nate Hibben.
A seasoned attorney with experience in family and criminal law, Brown’s appointment takes effect July 9, 2025. 061325
U.S. Senator John Barrasso is praising the Trump administration’s decision to repeal the Biden-era climate rules for power plants like the Dave Johnston plant at Glenrock.
The Wyoming Republican called the regulations “outrageous,” saying they would have raised energy costs and forced plant closures.
Barrasso said lifting the rules will free Wyoming energy workers and mark an end to what he called a “war on American energy.” 061225
The Wyoming Republican called the regulations “outrageous,” saying they would have raised energy costs and forced plant closures.
Barrasso said lifting the rules will free Wyoming energy workers and mark an end to what he called a “war on American energy.” 061225
A green light from the BLM.
The Bureau of Land Management said Friday that new modeling shows no significant groundwater impacts from the proposed Converse County Oil and Gas Project.
The Biden-era court-ordered analysis followed a federal ruling that found flaws in earlier environmental reviews.
While the findings support the original conclusions, a court hold remains in place on permit approvals.
The project could bring 8,000 jobs and up to $28 billion in federal revenue.
The BLM plans to work with the court to resume drilling approvals. 060925
The Bureau of Land Management said Friday that new modeling shows no significant groundwater impacts from the proposed Converse County Oil and Gas Project.
The Biden-era court-ordered analysis followed a federal ruling that found flaws in earlier environmental reviews.
While the findings support the original conclusions, a court hold remains in place on permit approvals.
The project could bring 8,000 jobs and up to $28 billion in federal revenue.
The BLM plans to work with the court to resume drilling approvals. 060925
Prism Logistics' gravel mining plans near Casper Mountain hit another roadblock Thursday as the State Board of Land Commissioners denied renewal of six leases.
The move follows Natrona County’s vote to restrict truck access on Coates Road, the only route to the site.
Opponents cited environmental and recreational concerns, while CEO Kyle True claimed constitutional violations.
The land board cited regulatory delays and rule violations fpr their decision.
Legal battles over the controversial project continue in state court. 060925
The move follows Natrona County’s vote to restrict truck access on Coates Road, the only route to the site.
Opponents cited environmental and recreational concerns, while CEO Kyle True claimed constitutional violations.
The land board cited regulatory delays and rule violations fpr their decision.
Legal battles over the controversial project continue in state court. 060925
New research shows oil from Wyoming’s Powder River Basin still breaks even around $60 a barrel, but low prices make producers more vulnerable to global price pressures.
Analysts say that while the region’s semiconventional zones show promise, challenges remain.
OPEC+ output increases and flat West Texas Intermediate prices could put more of a squeeze U.S. shale producers.
Still, Wyoming’s rig count has risen to 21, suggesting steady activity despite broader industry uncertainty. 060425
Analysts say that while the region’s semiconventional zones show promise, challenges remain.
OPEC+ output increases and flat West Texas Intermediate prices could put more of a squeeze U.S. shale producers.
Still, Wyoming’s rig count has risen to 21, suggesting steady activity despite broader industry uncertainty. 060425
Douglas High School is proud to announce its 2025 Alumni Hall of Fame Inductees.
This year’s distinguished inductees are:
Tanisha (Shatto) Dexter, DHS Class of 1998
Tom Lindmier, DHS Class of 1970
Lucile (Bradshaw) Taylor, DHS Class of 1963
Gary Shatto, DHS Class of 1970
U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman will be the keynote speaker for the induction ceremony on Saturday, September 6th, 2025 at 2:00 PM at the Douglas High School Recreation Center.
. 051525
This year’s distinguished inductees are:
Tanisha (Shatto) Dexter, DHS Class of 1998
Tom Lindmier, DHS Class of 1970
Lucile (Bradshaw) Taylor, DHS Class of 1963
Gary Shatto, DHS Class of 1970
U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman will be the keynote speaker for the induction ceremony on Saturday, September 6th, 2025 at 2:00 PM at the Douglas High School Recreation Center.
. 051525
The new Homewood Suites by Hilton hotel will get the city's lone available liquor license.
The Douglas City Council voted 3-2 in favor of the motion, with Mayor Kim Pexton, Councilmen Ron McNare and Matt Schmidt in favor and Councilmen Perry Hershberger and Joel Weeks against.
Mayor Pexton said it was not an easy decision between two good applicants... and state liquor license laws don't make it any easier...
The Douglas City Council voted 3-2 in favor of the motion, with Mayor Kim Pexton, Councilmen Ron McNare and Matt Schmidt in favor and Councilmen Perry Hershberger and Joel Weeks against.
Mayor Pexton said it was not an easy decision between two good applicants... and state liquor license laws don't make it any easier...
The Council took almost an hour Monday night to hear proposals from Homewood Suites, and Hollnheid Taproom, who are proposing a taproom featuring Wyoming-brewed craft beers at 211 North Second Street, just north of the LaBonte Hotel.
Before the vote, Councilman Ron McNare spoke in favor the Homewood Suites proposal...
Before the vote, Councilman Ron McNare spoke in favor the Homewood Suites proposal...
The Mayor and city staff both pledged to continue to work to find a solution to help the owners of the proposed taproom, who are still without a liquor license for their business. 051425
Douglas High School's commencement exercises will be some of the first in the area.
DHS graduation is this Sunday, May 11 at 2 p.m. at the Douglas High School Football Stadium (or the gymnasium in case of poor weather).
Glenrock High School graduation is Sunday, May 18th at 1pm.
Graduation for Wheatland, Lusk and Guernsey-Sunrise High Schools is also Sunday May 18th.
In Casper, Natrona County High School commencement is Thursday, May 29; Kelly Walsh High School is Friday, May 30. Both are at the Ford Wyoming Center. 050825
DHS graduation is this Sunday, May 11 at 2 p.m. at the Douglas High School Football Stadium (or the gymnasium in case of poor weather).
Glenrock High School graduation is Sunday, May 18th at 1pm.
Graduation for Wheatland, Lusk and Guernsey-Sunrise High Schools is also Sunday May 18th.
In Casper, Natrona County High School commencement is Thursday, May 29; Kelly Walsh High School is Friday, May 30. Both are at the Ford Wyoming Center. 050825
Eastern Wyoming College will honor its graduating nursing students this weekend during the annual Nursing Pinning Ceremony, Dr. Margaret Farley is vice-president of Douglas Campus...
Eastern Wyoming College will honor its graduating nursing students this weekend during the annual Nursing Pinning Ceremony, Dr. Margaret Farley is vice-president of Douglas Campus...
Farley says EWC's nursing program gives students a great education in rural health...
Dr Farley says there are always jobs for trained nurses...
More than 80 nurses have finished their training at EWC-Douglas.
The annual Nursing Pinning Ceremony will be this Saturday, May 10, from 1–3 p.m. at the EWC Douglas Campus, 800 South Wind River Road in Douglas. A reception will follow the ceremony. 050725
The annual Nursing Pinning Ceremony will be this Saturday, May 10, from 1–3 p.m. at the EWC Douglas Campus, 800 South Wind River Road in Douglas. A reception will follow the ceremony. 050725
A Glenrock teen’s plea to strengthen Wyoming’s stalking laws prompted action from state lawmakers Tuesday.
Sixteen-year-old Gillian Holman, stalked by a 41-year-old woman, asked the Legislature’s Management Council to consider tougher penalties for adults who target minors.
The council agreed, directing judiciary committee leaders to explore changes.
Holman’s story highlighted gaps in existing laws and reignited debate over a failed 2024 bill addressing obscene communications with minors. 040925
Sixteen-year-old Gillian Holman, stalked by a 41-year-old woman, asked the Legislature’s Management Council to consider tougher penalties for adults who target minors.
The council agreed, directing judiciary committee leaders to explore changes.
Holman’s story highlighted gaps in existing laws and reignited debate over a failed 2024 bill addressing obscene communications with minors. 040925
The Boys & Girls Club of Douglas will host their 11th Annual Commit to Kids Fundraiser this Saturday night at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds.
Cocktails, cash bar and silent auction begin at 6pm. Prime rib dinner is at 7, followed by the wine pull and dessert auction.
Keynote speakers begin at 8, including Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year Jaycee Nachtman and Junior Youth of the Year Ellie Tomlinson.
The live auction and impact auction wraps up the evening at the McKibben Cafeteria.
To purchase tickets or donate, call the Boys and Girls Club of Douglas at 358-4100. 040925
Cocktails, cash bar and silent auction begin at 6pm. Prime rib dinner is at 7, followed by the wine pull and dessert auction.
Keynote speakers begin at 8, including Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year Jaycee Nachtman and Junior Youth of the Year Ellie Tomlinson.
The live auction and impact auction wraps up the evening at the McKibben Cafeteria.
To purchase tickets or donate, call the Boys and Girls Club of Douglas at 358-4100. 040925
Casper/Natrona County International Airport plans to build a new Air Traffic Control Tower, replacing its 1954 facility.
Airport officials say the current tower has major visibility and infrastructure issues that could threaten future air traffic and radar services.
The new tower is 60% through design, with officials now seeking construction funding to maintain vital flight safety operations in central Wyoming. 040925
Airport officials say the current tower has major visibility and infrastructure issues that could threaten future air traffic and radar services.
The new tower is 60% through design, with officials now seeking construction funding to maintain vital flight safety operations in central Wyoming. 040925
Converse County School District #1 will interview three candidates for the Douglas Primary School Principal position on Monday, April 7th.
Each candidate will participate in a public forum/listening session from 5:30 to 7:00pm in the Primary School gym Monday night.
The public is invited to attend the forum to listen to each candidate and provide feedback related to their responses. 040725
Each candidate will participate in a public forum/listening session from 5:30 to 7:00pm in the Primary School gym Monday night.
The public is invited to attend the forum to listen to each candidate and provide feedback related to their responses. 040725
Construction will begin this week on a county project that will replace and upgrade Douglas city utility services to the John Lambert Subdivision.
Improved water and sewer service into the county-owned property will be brought in near Bartling Park, increasing development opportunities to the land off East Richards Street that includes the old drag strip.
The work will impact LaBonte Road, Fetterman Street, and the intersection of 4th & Richards.
Temporary lane restrictions and occasional detours are expected during construction.
Work is scheduled to be completed by late July. 040225
Improved water and sewer service into the county-owned property will be brought in near Bartling Park, increasing development opportunities to the land off East Richards Street that includes the old drag strip.
The work will impact LaBonte Road, Fetterman Street, and the intersection of 4th & Richards.
Temporary lane restrictions and occasional detours are expected during construction.
Work is scheduled to be completed by late July. 040225
The City of Douglas continues to look for a place for kids to swim this summer... but it looks like it won't be at the old Jackalope Plunge.
Councilman Ron McNare said Monday night that there had been several conversations with the owners of the warm springs pool south of Douglas...
Councilman Ron McNare said Monday night that there had been several conversations with the owners of the warm springs pool south of Douglas...
Demolition of the old pool in Washington Park has begun again. The City continues to work with the school district to allow more public access swimming at the Rec Center pool. 022825
The City of Douglas says that with the warmer weather this week, it's time for a little spring cleaning.
The city's street sweepers will be out in force.
Officials ask residents to please relocate vehicles off of roadways if possible to ensure they can clean the most area. 022725
The city's street sweepers will be out in force.
Officials ask residents to please relocate vehicles off of roadways if possible to ensure they can clean the most area. 022725
Roadway safety got a Converse County perspective this week.
Converse County Commission chairman Jim Willox was in Washington DC to testify at a US House Transportation and Infrastructure subcommittee hearing...
Converse County Commission chairman Jim Willox was in Washington DC to testify at a US House Transportation and Infrastructure subcommittee hearing...
Willox said he talked about the difference between rural and everything else...
Willox sais the legislative staff members who were at the hearing would take the input under consideration as they develop upcoming transportation legislation. 021425
As the State of Wyoming prepares to invest $90 million in rebuilding LaPrele Dam west of Douglas, some lawmakers argue taxpayers should see added benefits, like recreational access and hydroelectric power.
The House rejected an amendment ensuring public access, but may revisit it.
The 115-year-old dam has deemed unsafe and is set for demolition by April. A replacement is planned by 2029.
Legislators stress urgency, balancing irrigation needs with potential public use as projected costs rise to an estimated $182 million dollars. 021325
The House rejected an amendment ensuring public access, but may revisit it.
The 115-year-old dam has deemed unsafe and is set for demolition by April. A replacement is planned by 2029.
Legislators stress urgency, balancing irrigation needs with potential public use as projected costs rise to an estimated $182 million dollars. 021325
Low-flying helicopters will survey parts of Wyoming and northern Colorado starting in February as part of a U.S. Geological Survey project.
The aircraft, towing large electromagnetic sensors, will map underground geology across several counties.
Flights will cover areas within Albany, Carbon, Converse, Laramie, and Platte counties in Wyoming as well as Jackson, Larimer, and Routt counties in Colorado.
Flights will last about three months, weather permitting, and data will be publicly available.
Officials say the equipment poses no risk to people or wildlife.
The survey is part of a larger effort to study mineral resources and groundwater systems. 021025
The aircraft, towing large electromagnetic sensors, will map underground geology across several counties.
Flights will cover areas within Albany, Carbon, Converse, Laramie, and Platte counties in Wyoming as well as Jackson, Larimer, and Routt counties in Colorado.
Flights will last about three months, weather permitting, and data will be publicly available.
Officials say the equipment poses no risk to people or wildlife.
The survey is part of a larger effort to study mineral resources and groundwater systems. 021025
The State Loan and Investment Board has approved a $750,000 grant for the town of Guernsey to expand its senior center and library.
The project adds space for health services, job training, and community meetings.
Despite prior concerns from the Wyoming Business Council, the board passed the request 4-1.
Officials emphasized aligning funding with economic goals, with some calling for changes to the grant program.
The Business Council pledged to refine its funding strategy moving forward. 021025
The project adds space for health services, job training, and community meetings.
Despite prior concerns from the Wyoming Business Council, the board passed the request 4-1.
Officials emphasized aligning funding with economic goals, with some calling for changes to the grant program.
The Business Council pledged to refine its funding strategy moving forward. 021025
The Casper / Natrona County International Airport has announced that 7,510 enplaned passengers, passengers getting on an aircraft, used the Airport in January.
The January number is an 11% increase compared to January of 2024.
Glenn Januska, Airport Director sais that for 2024, they were just 102 passenger enplanements short of 100,000.
He also said that if the increased passenger trend continues, they'll see a very strong 2025. 021025
The January number is an 11% increase compared to January of 2024.
Glenn Januska, Airport Director sais that for 2024, they were just 102 passenger enplanements short of 100,000.
He also said that if the increased passenger trend continues, they'll see a very strong 2025. 021025
The City of Douglas will move ahead with planned reconstruction of the pool and waterpark in Washington Park.
The Douglas City Council voted 5-0 to approve a $4.7 million dollar bid from Powder River Construction for the pool renovation.
The amount is about a million dollars over what the city had originally budgeted, but the amount will be spread over two budget years.
Estimated completion of the project isn't until 2026. The pool in Washington Park will be closed for the entire summer this year.
Douglas Mayor Kim Pexton said they're talking with Converse County School District #1 to be able to provide more hours at the Rec Center pool this summer. 012825
The Douglas City Council voted 5-0 to approve a $4.7 million dollar bid from Powder River Construction for the pool renovation.
The amount is about a million dollars over what the city had originally budgeted, but the amount will be spread over two budget years.
Estimated completion of the project isn't until 2026. The pool in Washington Park will be closed for the entire summer this year.
Douglas Mayor Kim Pexton said they're talking with Converse County School District #1 to be able to provide more hours at the Rec Center pool this summer. 012825
A Wyoming legislative panel advanced a bill Wednesday to ban ballot drop boxes, reigniting tensions between Secretary of State Chuck Gray, who argues that they violate state election law, and county clerks around the state, defending the practice as legal and secure.
Converse County Clerk Karen Rimmer said her office’s decision to use a ballot drop box was strictly for the benefit of the voters who live here...
Converse County Clerk Karen Rimmer said her office’s decision to use a ballot drop box was strictly for the benefit of the voters who live here...
Rimmer said she also sought the advice of her county attorney, who did not share Gray’s interpretation of state law.
The committee voted 11-1 to forward the bill to the full House for debate. 012725
The committee voted 11-1 to forward the bill to the full House for debate. 012725
Douglas High School cheerleaders brought the excitement to the Ford Wyoming Center in Casper on Friday.
The Bearcats cheer squad won the 3A All-Girl Cheer Stunt division by 5/100th's of a point, with a grand total of 74.65. That edged Mountain View's 74.6, making DHS cheerleaders state champs!
Douglas also tied Cody for 6th place in 3A GameDay cheer. 012525
The Bearcats cheer squad won the 3A All-Girl Cheer Stunt division by 5/100th's of a point, with a grand total of 74.65. That edged Mountain View's 74.6, making DHS cheerleaders state champs!
Douglas also tied Cody for 6th place in 3A GameDay cheer. 012525
The front doors are open again at Douglas City Hall.
The remodeling project continues, and one of the most visible changes has been a new entryway into the building.
The main doors have been blocked off during construction, and traffic in and out of City Hall has been rerouted through a small door on the north end of the building.
The new entryway on the east side is now finished, and the doors are open again to the public.
The City's electronic signs have also been re-installed on the walls at the corner of 4th and Center Street. 012325
The remodeling project continues, and one of the most visible changes has been a new entryway into the building.
The main doors have been blocked off during construction, and traffic in and out of City Hall has been rerouted through a small door on the north end of the building.
The new entryway on the east side is now finished, and the doors are open again to the public.
The City's electronic signs have also been re-installed on the walls at the corner of 4th and Center Street. 012325
Plans for a new community center in Glendo are advancing after a public survey and committee meeting.
Of 350 surveyed households, 19 responded, prioritizing a commercial kitchen, ADA accessibility, and PA systems.
If a commercial kitchen were added to the plans, it would have to meet health and fire codes, including a three-bay sink, a commercial refrigerator and B1 fire suppression hood system.
Senior meals at Glendo will continue to be served at the Catholic church. 012325
Of 350 surveyed households, 19 responded, prioritizing a commercial kitchen, ADA accessibility, and PA systems.
If a commercial kitchen were added to the plans, it would have to meet health and fire codes, including a three-bay sink, a commercial refrigerator and B1 fire suppression hood system.
Senior meals at Glendo will continue to be served at the Catholic church. 012325
Wyoming lawmakers have redirected $50 million from the Alkali Dam project east of Worland near Hyattville... to the LaPrele Dam reconstruction near Douglas.
The move, included in House Bill 117, reflects concerns over Alkali’s rising costs, now estimated at $80 million.
LaPrele’s aging structure poses safety risks, prompting Governor Mark Gordon’s call for urgent repairs.
Alkali supporters face a 2026 deadline to resolve easement issues and reapply for funding.
Both projects aim to protect water rights and irrigation systems. 012225
The move, included in House Bill 117, reflects concerns over Alkali’s rising costs, now estimated at $80 million.
LaPrele’s aging structure poses safety risks, prompting Governor Mark Gordon’s call for urgent repairs.
Alkali supporters face a 2026 deadline to resolve easement issues and reapply for funding.
Both projects aim to protect water rights and irrigation systems. 012225
The Converse County Commission has purchased a building in Glenrock.
The County closed this week on the old Deer Creek Drug store at 215 South 4th Street.
Commission chairman Jim Willox says they plan to remodel the building for more accessible offices in the western part of the county...
The County closed this week on the old Deer Creek Drug store at 215 South 4th Street.
Commission chairman Jim Willox says they plan to remodel the building for more accessible offices in the western part of the county...
Willox said several county agencies already hold office hours in Glenrock...
Remodeling of the building is expected to begin soon. 012225
No phones in the classroom.
The Natrona County School District has joined school districts like CCSD1 at Douglas in implementing a new cell phone policy that went into effect Monday.
The district stated that many NCSD teachers are adapting a “No Cell Phone” policy in their classrooms.
The decision was made because they continue to see a rise in cell phone related distractions during instructional time. 011425
The Natrona County School District has joined school districts like CCSD1 at Douglas in implementing a new cell phone policy that went into effect Monday.
The district stated that many NCSD teachers are adapting a “No Cell Phone” policy in their classrooms.
The decision was made because they continue to see a rise in cell phone related distractions during instructional time. 011425
The Dave Johnston Power Plant in Glenrock will remain operational longer after Rocky Mountain Power canceled its planned retirement in the latest Integrated Resource Plan.
Rocky Mountain Power released a new Integrated Resource Plan last week that will extend the life of its four Wyoming coal plants by cancelling their retirements.
The decision, driven by changing market forces and customer energy needs, secures hundreds of local jobs.
Dave Johnston units 1 and 2 had been scheduled for a 2028 decommissioning. These units are making a conversion to natural gas scheduled for 2029 and are no longer slated for retirement.
Dave Johnston Unit 4 was scheduled to shut down in 2039 but now has no retirement date for its coal production.
Dave Johnston Unit 3 will still shut down as previously scheduled in 2027 due to a settlement agreement in compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency related to Rocky Mountain Power’s Regional Haze plan.
Statewide, some units will transition to natural gas or carbon capture, but again, no closures are planned for any of Rocky Mountain Power's four power plants in Wyoming. 011025
Rocky Mountain Power released a new Integrated Resource Plan last week that will extend the life of its four Wyoming coal plants by cancelling their retirements.
The decision, driven by changing market forces and customer energy needs, secures hundreds of local jobs.
Dave Johnston units 1 and 2 had been scheduled for a 2028 decommissioning. These units are making a conversion to natural gas scheduled for 2029 and are no longer slated for retirement.
Dave Johnston Unit 4 was scheduled to shut down in 2039 but now has no retirement date for its coal production.
Dave Johnston Unit 3 will still shut down as previously scheduled in 2027 due to a settlement agreement in compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency related to Rocky Mountain Power’s Regional Haze plan.
Statewide, some units will transition to natural gas or carbon capture, but again, no closures are planned for any of Rocky Mountain Power's four power plants in Wyoming. 011025
Wyoming saw a warm, dry December, with temperatures 10–20 degrees above normal.
The National Weather Service says Greybull had its warmest December on record.
Casper saw a temperature average that was 8.6 degrees above normal, with only 26% of normal precipitation.
Buffalo, Worland and Riverton all saw their second warmest December ever.
Snowfall was mostly west of the Continental Divide.
Drought persists statewide, with Natrona County listed in severe drought.
Extreme drought conditions currently affect eastern Converse County, most of Niobrara County, and everything south from the Laramie Ranges to the Nebraska Panhandle.
21 of Wyoming's 23 counties are currently affected by drought at some level. 010325
The National Weather Service says Greybull had its warmest December on record.
Casper saw a temperature average that was 8.6 degrees above normal, with only 26% of normal precipitation.
Buffalo, Worland and Riverton all saw their second warmest December ever.
Snowfall was mostly west of the Continental Divide.
Drought persists statewide, with Natrona County listed in severe drought.
Extreme drought conditions currently affect eastern Converse County, most of Niobrara County, and everything south from the Laramie Ranges to the Nebraska Panhandle.
21 of Wyoming's 23 counties are currently affected by drought at some level. 010325
Charges against 43 year old John Bushyhead, of Arapaho, quadrupled after he allegedly tricked Converse County jail deputies into believing he was someone else.
Arrested for attempting to cash a fraudulent $33,000 check, Bushyhead allegedly posed as Vernaldo Dodge, using Dodge’s identity to secure a public defender.
A fingerprint check revealed his true identity, leading to forgery, identity theft, perjury, and police interference charges.
Prosecutors have dismissed charges that were wrongly filed against Dodge. 123024
Arrested for attempting to cash a fraudulent $33,000 check, Bushyhead allegedly posed as Vernaldo Dodge, using Dodge’s identity to secure a public defender.
A fingerprint check revealed his true identity, leading to forgery, identity theft, perjury, and police interference charges.
Prosecutors have dismissed charges that were wrongly filed against Dodge. 123024
Wyoming’s 2024 fire season burned over 850,000 acres, with state and private lands accounting for 70% of the damage.
State Forester Kelly Norris highlighted the strain on resources during the 64th annual Wyoming Rural Firefighters Association meeting, noting suppression costs exceeded $103 million.
Officials aim to secure $20 million to replenish emergency fire accounts during the 2025 legislative session.
Norris emphasized community input and praised firefighters, saying, “Everyone came home this season.” 120924
State Forester Kelly Norris highlighted the strain on resources during the 64th annual Wyoming Rural Firefighters Association meeting, noting suppression costs exceeded $103 million.
Officials aim to secure $20 million to replenish emergency fire accounts during the 2025 legislative session.
Norris emphasized community input and praised firefighters, saying, “Everyone came home this season.” 120924
The Douglas City council will NOT meet this afternoon.
On a regular schedule, City Council meets on the second and fourth Mondays each month.
City manager JD Cox has been out of town for the past couple of weeks on family business, and this week's meeting has been moved to Thursday. Douglas City Council will meet this month on Thursday, December 12th, and on Monday December 23rd.
Council meetings are held at 4:30pm at Douglas City Hall, and are open to the public. 120924
On a regular schedule, City Council meets on the second and fourth Mondays each month.
City manager JD Cox has been out of town for the past couple of weeks on family business, and this week's meeting has been moved to Thursday. Douglas City Council will meet this month on Thursday, December 12th, and on Monday December 23rd.
Council meetings are held at 4:30pm at Douglas City Hall, and are open to the public. 120924
Wyoming coal leaders are optimistic about Chris Wright, President-elect Trump’s Energy Secretary nominee, and his potential impact on the industry.
Wyoming Mining Association Director Travis Deti hopes Wright will reverse Biden-era policies, like the Powder River Basin coal leasing ban.
However, coal production remains uncertain, especially with shrinking domestic markets and blocked export plans.
Wright’s pro-fossil fuels stance and fracking expertise could influence federal support for coal and fossil fuel research. 112724
Wyoming Mining Association Director Travis Deti hopes Wright will reverse Biden-era policies, like the Powder River Basin coal leasing ban.
However, coal production remains uncertain, especially with shrinking domestic markets and blocked export plans.
Wright’s pro-fossil fuels stance and fracking expertise could influence federal support for coal and fossil fuel research. 112724
The perfect ratio between sauce, meat, beans, and other ingredients... and of course, it's got to hit the tongue just right.
Douglas's top chilis were chosen Saturday at the Fire On Main Street Chili Cook-Off, sponsored by The Enterprise, UniWyo Credit Union and Main Street Douglas.
3rd Place- Knight Kruisers 'Junkyard Chili'
2nd- Points West Bank 'Crazy Train Chili'
1st- College Inn Bar 'Best Damn Chili'
People's choice - CCSD#1Transportation Dept "Yellow Blazing Bus Chili '
Best decorated - Memorial Hospital of Converse County 'Mr. Grinchy'
Congratulations to our winners! 112724
Douglas's top chilis were chosen Saturday at the Fire On Main Street Chili Cook-Off, sponsored by The Enterprise, UniWyo Credit Union and Main Street Douglas.
3rd Place- Knight Kruisers 'Junkyard Chili'
2nd- Points West Bank 'Crazy Train Chili'
1st- College Inn Bar 'Best Damn Chili'
People's choice - CCSD#1Transportation Dept "Yellow Blazing Bus Chili '
Best decorated - Memorial Hospital of Converse County 'Mr. Grinchy'
Congratulations to our winners! 112724
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is talking muleys next week.
Game & Fish is hosting a series of community conversations in the Casper Region, allowing landowners, hunters and wildlife enthusiasts to share their insights and discuss the future of Wyoming’s mule deer management.
The meetings will not have formal presentations but will instead offer participants the opportunity to discuss and ask questions.
Lusk - Tue Dec 3, Niobrara County Fairgrounds
Douglas - Wed Dec 4, Converse Co. Library
Glenrock - Thu Dec 5, Glenrock Library Meeting Hall
Casper - Fri Dec 6, Casper WGFD office
All meetings are from 6 to 8 pm. Members of the public are welcome to stop in at any time during those hours. 112724
Game & Fish is hosting a series of community conversations in the Casper Region, allowing landowners, hunters and wildlife enthusiasts to share their insights and discuss the future of Wyoming’s mule deer management.
The meetings will not have formal presentations but will instead offer participants the opportunity to discuss and ask questions.
Lusk - Tue Dec 3, Niobrara County Fairgrounds
Douglas - Wed Dec 4, Converse Co. Library
Glenrock - Thu Dec 5, Glenrock Library Meeting Hall
Casper - Fri Dec 6, Casper WGFD office
All meetings are from 6 to 8 pm. Members of the public are welcome to stop in at any time during those hours. 112724
One person is dead following a Sunday afternoon accident at Douglas.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol says a GMC pickup was southbound on I-25 when the drover moved from the right lane to the left to pass a slower vehicle.
The pickup lost control on the icy road, spun into the median and rolled at least once.
31-year old Kayla Zacharias was a passenger in the truck. She died in the accident. Two others were listed as injured in the Highway Patrol report. 112524
The Wyoming Highway Patrol says a GMC pickup was southbound on I-25 when the drover moved from the right lane to the left to pass a slower vehicle.
The pickup lost control on the icy road, spun into the median and rolled at least once.
31-year old Kayla Zacharias was a passenger in the truck. She died in the accident. Two others were listed as injured in the Highway Patrol report. 112524
A new healthcare scholarship honors Casper OB-GYN physician Dr. Samuel Vigneri, who passed away in September.
Established by his widow, the scholarship supports Wyoming students pursuing healthcare careers.
Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA, be enrolled in at least six credits, and be state residents.
Mrs. Vigneri noted her late husband’s gratitude for the education he received at Casper College, where he earned a biology degree.
Scholarships will be awarded each fall and spring semester. 111924
Established by his widow, the scholarship supports Wyoming students pursuing healthcare careers.
Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA, be enrolled in at least six credits, and be state residents.
Mrs. Vigneri noted her late husband’s gratitude for the education he received at Casper College, where he earned a biology degree.
Scholarships will be awarded each fall and spring semester. 111924
Wyoming lawmakers are addressing aging water infrastructure across the state following an emergency order to demolish the 115-year-old LaPrele Dam ten miles west of Douglas.
The Select Water Committee met last week in Casper to discuss funding for water projects, including $118 million for the dam’s replacement.
State officials have drained the reservoir to mitigate risk, but challenges remain for irrigators reliant on LaPrele Creek.
Proposed legislation aims to give irrigators more input on future emergency breach orders. The dam must be partially demolished by April. 111924
The Select Water Committee met last week in Casper to discuss funding for water projects, including $118 million for the dam’s replacement.
State officials have drained the reservoir to mitigate risk, but challenges remain for irrigators reliant on LaPrele Creek.
Proposed legislation aims to give irrigators more input on future emergency breach orders. The dam must be partially demolished by April. 111924
Here are unofficial results from Tuesday’s 2024 General Election in Converse County.
Douglas Mayor Kim Pexton will serve another term. Pexton held off a strong challenge from for city councilman Tony Reynolds, 1304 to 1249, a 55-vote margin.
Joel Weeks defeated Josh Valk 1414 to 882 for a seat on the Douglas City Council.
Matt Schmidt and Ron McNare will keep their seats on the Douglas City Council. Jacey Bauman was 80 votes shy in a challenge.
Jody Ettles and Donna Weaver get seats on the Rolling Hills town council.
Five seats on the Converse County #1 school board go to Ty Tillard, Brad Reese, Jeremiah Darr, JC Forgey and Staci Hill.
There were nine candidates for three seats onthe CCSD2 school board at Glenrock. Winners were Ross Allen, Jared Williams and Brendon Grant.
Converse County voters were narrowly in favor of Amendment A which would separate residential real property into its own class of property for purposes of property tax assessments.
The Senior Citizen district mill levy continuance passed by a wide margin. 110524
Douglas Mayor Kim Pexton will serve another term. Pexton held off a strong challenge from for city councilman Tony Reynolds, 1304 to 1249, a 55-vote margin.
Joel Weeks defeated Josh Valk 1414 to 882 for a seat on the Douglas City Council.
Matt Schmidt and Ron McNare will keep their seats on the Douglas City Council. Jacey Bauman was 80 votes shy in a challenge.
Jody Ettles and Donna Weaver get seats on the Rolling Hills town council.
Five seats on the Converse County #1 school board go to Ty Tillard, Brad Reese, Jeremiah Darr, JC Forgey and Staci Hill.
There were nine candidates for three seats onthe CCSD2 school board at Glenrock. Winners were Ross Allen, Jared Williams and Brendon Grant.
Converse County voters were narrowly in favor of Amendment A which would separate residential real property into its own class of property for purposes of property tax assessments.
The Senior Citizen district mill levy continuance passed by a wide margin. 110524
Fire restrictions are being lifted today on all National Forest System lands managed by the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland.
Restrictions are being removed because of reduced wildfire potential due to increased fuel moisture and favorable weather forecasts.
Areas involved include National Forest and Grassland in Albany, Campbell, Carbon, Converse, Crook, Natrona, Niobrara, Platte, and Weston counties in Wyoming.
Late-season fires have been more common in the Rocky Mountain region this year, meaning that hunters, campers, and all other forest visitors should exercise caution to reduce wildfire risk.
Many areas across the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland remain in drought of varying levels of intensity. 103024
Restrictions are being removed because of reduced wildfire potential due to increased fuel moisture and favorable weather forecasts.
Areas involved include National Forest and Grassland in Albany, Campbell, Carbon, Converse, Crook, Natrona, Niobrara, Platte, and Weston counties in Wyoming.
Late-season fires have been more common in the Rocky Mountain region this year, meaning that hunters, campers, and all other forest visitors should exercise caution to reduce wildfire risk.
Many areas across the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland remain in drought of varying levels of intensity. 103024
Winners have been named in the Annual Jackalope City Scarecrow Contest, put on by The Enterprise.
🥇 1st Place: Riverside Plaza with "Adventure is Out There" scarecrows from the movie Up!
🥈 2nd Place: Converse County Bank with the bronc riding scarecrow!
🥉 3rd Place: College Inn Bar with their spooky display of scary scarecrows!
🏆 People’s Choice Award: Douglas Care Center for their “Nurse Chasing the Man Down for a Shot” display!
Congratulations to the winners, and thanks to everyone who entered for all your hard work. 103024
🥇 1st Place: Riverside Plaza with "Adventure is Out There" scarecrows from the movie Up!
🥈 2nd Place: Converse County Bank with the bronc riding scarecrow!
🥉 3rd Place: College Inn Bar with their spooky display of scary scarecrows!
🏆 People’s Choice Award: Douglas Care Center for their “Nurse Chasing the Man Down for a Shot” display!
Congratulations to the winners, and thanks to everyone who entered for all your hard work. 103024
Unemployment dropped a half a percentage point in Converse County in September.
Latest numbers from the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services show the Converse unemployment rate at 2.2 percent, down from 2.7 percent in August.
Uinta County had the highest unemployment in the state in September, at 3.1 percent. Teton County was the lowest, at 1.6 percent.
Statewide, Wyoming's unemployment rate rose from 3 percent in August, to 3.1 percent in September. 102924
Latest numbers from the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services show the Converse unemployment rate at 2.2 percent, down from 2.7 percent in August.
Uinta County had the highest unemployment in the state in September, at 3.1 percent. Teton County was the lowest, at 1.6 percent.
Statewide, Wyoming's unemployment rate rose from 3 percent in August, to 3.1 percent in September. 102924
The Douglas Police Department was recognized on a global stage last week at the International Association of Chiefs of Police Annual Awards Banquet.
DPD received international recognition for Leadership in Community Policing as a small agency.
The award recognizes practices that use effective and long-lasting partnerships to make local, national, and global communities safer.
The Douglas Police Department's dedication to implementing positive programs in our community include events like Shop With a Cop, Bowling With Badges, Cops & Bobbers, and more.
Chief Todd Byerly, Lieutenant Todd Matthews, Detective Sean Leman, and City Manager JD Cox attended the awards ceremony in Boston to accept the award on behalf of the agency. 102824
DPD received international recognition for Leadership in Community Policing as a small agency.
The award recognizes practices that use effective and long-lasting partnerships to make local, national, and global communities safer.
The Douglas Police Department's dedication to implementing positive programs in our community include events like Shop With a Cop, Bowling With Badges, Cops & Bobbers, and more.
Chief Todd Byerly, Lieutenant Todd Matthews, Detective Sean Leman, and City Manager JD Cox attended the awards ceremony in Boston to accept the award on behalf of the agency. 102824
National honors for some Douglas FFA members.
The Douglas FFA Ag Mechanics team competed at the National convention last week.
Dean Shatto and Miles Chapman received Silver individual awards, Tyler Bevers and Waylon Boynton earned Bronze individual awards, and the DHS Ag Mechanics team earned a Silver Emblem Team award.
More than 70 thousand students attended the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis Wednesday through Saturday. 102824
The Douglas FFA Ag Mechanics team competed at the National convention last week.
Dean Shatto and Miles Chapman received Silver individual awards, Tyler Bevers and Waylon Boynton earned Bronze individual awards, and the DHS Ag Mechanics team earned a Silver Emblem Team award.
More than 70 thousand students attended the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis Wednesday through Saturday. 102824
A false alarm at Douglas High School Wednesday morning.
Douglas High School and several other school districts in the state received a hoax call regarding a person in distress with a weapon in a school building.
CCSD1 Superintendent Doctor Paige Fenton Hughes explained what happened...
Douglas High School and several other school districts in the state received a hoax call regarding a person in distress with a weapon in a school building.
CCSD1 Superintendent Doctor Paige Fenton Hughes explained what happened...
Fenton-Hughes said that because the action was initiated by the Douglas Police Department, the school district didn't have much information to pass on to concerned parents...
The lockdown at Douglas High School was cleared at about 12:15 Wednesday afternoon... 101624
The meat's on the hoof... now how do you process the animal?
Converse County's UW Extension Educator Jedidiah Hewlett says they're gauging interest in a processing class...
Converse County's UW Extension Educator Jedidiah Hewlett says they're gauging interest in a processing class...
Hewlett says they don't have a date yet, but if you're interested, you can go to the Converse County Extension page on Facebook for more information and to participate in the poll. 101624
A Douglas High School graduate has received a top honor in the state.
The Wyoming Department of Education announced that Morgan Hahn, currently a high school social studies teacher at Lander Valley High School, has been named the 2025 Wyoming Teacher of the Year.
Hahn is making waves with her innovative teaching methods.
From Advanced Placement Psychology to World History, she’s empowering students to achieve high levels of learning every day.
She also leads the charge in integrating Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) into classrooms, ensuring both students and staff benefit from this cutting-edge tool.
Morgan Hahn graduated from DHS in 2014. 101424
The Wyoming Department of Education announced that Morgan Hahn, currently a high school social studies teacher at Lander Valley High School, has been named the 2025 Wyoming Teacher of the Year.
Hahn is making waves with her innovative teaching methods.
From Advanced Placement Psychology to World History, she’s empowering students to achieve high levels of learning every day.
She also leads the charge in integrating Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) into classrooms, ensuring both students and staff benefit from this cutting-edge tool.
Morgan Hahn graduated from DHS in 2014. 101424
An officer-involved shooting in Douglas last night.
Officers of the Douglas Police Department responded just before 10 PM to the 700 block of Hamilton Street for a reported domestic involving a firearm.
Accoriding to a press release from the DPD, the suspect displayed a handgun in which the officers perceived an immediate deadly threat, one officer discharged their firearm striking the suspect.
The officers performed lifesaving measures, and the suspect was transported to Memorial Hospital of Converse County.
All officers on-scene were unharmed.
The officer involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation as is standard protocol and in accordance with department policy.
This incident is currently under investigation by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. 100824
Officers of the Douglas Police Department responded just before 10 PM to the 700 block of Hamilton Street for a reported domestic involving a firearm.
Accoriding to a press release from the DPD, the suspect displayed a handgun in which the officers perceived an immediate deadly threat, one officer discharged their firearm striking the suspect.
The officers performed lifesaving measures, and the suspect was transported to Memorial Hospital of Converse County.
All officers on-scene were unharmed.
The officer involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation as is standard protocol and in accordance with department policy.
This incident is currently under investigation by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. 100824
A Douglas pharmacist is one of five people selected as 2024 distinguished alumni by the University of Wyoming’s College of Health Sciences.
Douglas pharmacist Gary Shatto has been honored by the UW School of Pharmacy.
Shatto graduated from UW in 1976. In 1978, he purchased Shatto’s Frontier Drug, where he has dedicated over 45 years to providing compassionate care to his community.
Shatto has served as president of the Wyoming Pharmaceutical Association from 1987-88 and contributed to the National Association of Retail Pharmacists on both the legislative and consumer affairs committees.
His dedication to public service earned him a seat on the Wyoming governor’s advisory committee for the state Medicaid program, where he played a key role in enhancing pharmacy services.
The alumni were honored recently in an awards ceremony that was part of UW’s 2024 Homecoming activities. 100724
Douglas pharmacist Gary Shatto has been honored by the UW School of Pharmacy.
Shatto graduated from UW in 1976. In 1978, he purchased Shatto’s Frontier Drug, where he has dedicated over 45 years to providing compassionate care to his community.
Shatto has served as president of the Wyoming Pharmaceutical Association from 1987-88 and contributed to the National Association of Retail Pharmacists on both the legislative and consumer affairs committees.
His dedication to public service earned him a seat on the Wyoming governor’s advisory committee for the state Medicaid program, where he played a key role in enhancing pharmacy services.
The alumni were honored recently in an awards ceremony that was part of UW’s 2024 Homecoming activities. 100724
Get your lederhosen ready... this Saturday, Oktoberfest is taking over downtown Douglas with beer, brats, and more Bavarian spirit than you can shake a pretzel at.
City administrator JD Cox says it's another way to welcome folks to Douglas...
Get your lederhosen ready... this Saturday, Oktoberfest is taking over downtown Douglas with beer, brats, and more Bavarian spirit than you can shake a pretzel at.
City administrator JD Cox says it's another way to welcome folks to Douglas...
Morning activities include a car show & shine, a 5k run. Opening ceremonies and tapping of the keg are at noon...
Don't miss activities...
There'll be local brews, authentic German food, live music with the Deer Creek Brass Band from Glenrock, a stein-holding contest, wiener dog races and plenty of Oktoberfest fun.
So, grab your friends and come raise a glass (or two) to fall fun and good times. Douglas Oktoberfest will be headquartered in the city parking lot at Second & Walnut Streets. 100424
So, grab your friends and come raise a glass (or two) to fall fun and good times. Douglas Oktoberfest will be headquartered in the city parking lot at Second & Walnut Streets. 100424
Schools across the state are working with local producers to procure local meat and produce for their districts.
Converse County School District 1 celebrated Wyoming Farm to School Day with Chili and Cinnamon Rolls made with local beef on Wednesday.
Wyoming First Lady Jennie Gordon came to Douglas and helped serve and joined students for Lunch at Douglas Upper Elementary yesterday.
CCSD1 extended their thanks to Vollman Ranches, who donated the meat for The First Annual Farm to School Day. 100324
Converse County School District 1 celebrated Wyoming Farm to School Day with Chili and Cinnamon Rolls made with local beef on Wednesday.
Wyoming First Lady Jennie Gordon came to Douglas and helped serve and joined students for Lunch at Douglas Upper Elementary yesterday.
CCSD1 extended their thanks to Vollman Ranches, who donated the meat for The First Annual Farm to School Day. 100324
Six Wyoming counties have been designated as disaster areas by the U.S. Department of Agriculture following wildfires.
The declaration, signed by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, makes emergency loans available for recovery.
Campbell County was designated a primary natural disaster area, along with five other contiguous counties: Converse, Crook, Johnson, Sheridan and Weston.
Governor Gordon emphasized the ongoing threat of wildfires and urged caution as fire weather continues. 100224
The declaration, signed by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, makes emergency loans available for recovery.
Campbell County was designated a primary natural disaster area, along with five other contiguous counties: Converse, Crook, Johnson, Sheridan and Weston.
Governor Gordon emphasized the ongoing threat of wildfires and urged caution as fire weather continues. 100224
Preparations are underway for this November's General Election.
The Converse County Clerk’s Office will be conducting public testing on election equipment to be used during the 2024 General Election.
The testing will be this Thursday, October 3rd, beginning at 8:30 a.m., and will take place in the Converse County Courthouse Community Room at 107 N 5th Street.
All interested persons, candidates, and political party representatives are encouraged to attend. 100224
The Converse County Clerk’s Office will be conducting public testing on election equipment to be used during the 2024 General Election.
The testing will be this Thursday, October 3rd, beginning at 8:30 a.m., and will take place in the Converse County Courthouse Community Room at 107 N 5th Street.
All interested persons, candidates, and political party representatives are encouraged to attend. 100224
This week is Homecoming Week at Douglas High School.
The fun began on Monday when students dressed for ZOOM interviews... professional on the top, jammies on the bottom. powder puff and volleyball were in the main gym.
Tuesday's dressup is BBQ Dads & Soccer moms... The Homecoming Bonfire is Tuesday night at 7:30 in the student parking lot.
Wednesday dressup is Western Wednesday... with a spooky movie on the turf at Bearcat Stadium at 6:30 pm
Thursday dressup is Neon Day, with a choir concert in the auditorium at 7 pm
Friday is Bearcat Pride Day, school colors... Homecoming Football vs Lander Valley at 6, followed by the Homecoming Dance at the Bearcat Den. 100124
The fun began on Monday when students dressed for ZOOM interviews... professional on the top, jammies on the bottom. powder puff and volleyball were in the main gym.
Tuesday's dressup is BBQ Dads & Soccer moms... The Homecoming Bonfire is Tuesday night at 7:30 in the student parking lot.
Wednesday dressup is Western Wednesday... with a spooky movie on the turf at Bearcat Stadium at 6:30 pm
Thursday dressup is Neon Day, with a choir concert in the auditorium at 7 pm
Friday is Bearcat Pride Day, school colors... Homecoming Football vs Lander Valley at 6, followed by the Homecoming Dance at the Bearcat Den. 100124
Firefighters got a quick perimeter around a grass fire in Platte County this morning.
The Dwyer Fire burned about 960 acres north of Highway 26 between I-25 and Guernsey Reservoir.
Several residences were evacuated, but residents were allowed to return to their homes by about 11 AM.
Platte County Emergency Management says fire crews will remain in the area this afternoon to watch for flare-ups and new starts. 093024
The Dwyer Fire burned about 960 acres north of Highway 26 between I-25 and Guernsey Reservoir.
Several residences were evacuated, but residents were allowed to return to their homes by about 11 AM.
Platte County Emergency Management says fire crews will remain in the area this afternoon to watch for flare-ups and new starts. 093024
A fire in the Big Horns is closing roads and forcing evacuations.
The Elk Fire on the east face of the mountains north of Sheridan has burned more than 22,000 acres since it was first reported on Friday.
Zero percent containment... the Wyoming Type III team that's managing operations says the fire grew at least eight miles to the south overnight last night.
Highway 14 is closed from Dayton to Burgess Junction, several areas have been evacuated, and several more are on alert. 093024
The Elk Fire on the east face of the mountains north of Sheridan has burned more than 22,000 acres since it was first reported on Friday.
Zero percent containment... the Wyoming Type III team that's managing operations says the fire grew at least eight miles to the south overnight last night.
Highway 14 is closed from Dayton to Burgess Junction, several areas have been evacuated, and several more are on alert. 093024
Former Glendo town clerk and treasurer Tristany Hoffman was arrested on Wednesday of last week, accused of stealing more than $17 thousand dollars in town funds.
Hoffman allegedly issued unauthorized checks to herself and is facing three felony charges, each carrying up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Her arrest follows an investigation into suspicious financial activity.
Hoffman was released on a $20,000 bond. 093024
Hoffman allegedly issued unauthorized checks to herself and is facing three felony charges, each carrying up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Her arrest follows an investigation into suspicious financial activity.
Hoffman was released on a $20,000 bond. 093024
The City of Douglas is asking its residents to conserve water.
The City has had ongoing issues with a leak in the water supply tank on the Sheep Mountain Well for some time.
The contractor is beginning work on Tuesday (October 1st) and this repair work is expected to last for 14 days.
While this work is being performed the City will be unable to pump any water from the Sheep Mountain Well and must rely solely on the Little Boxelder Spring to supply all of Douglas’ water needs.
High-consumption users have already been notified, but residential users are also being asked to stop watering their lawns for the next couple of weeks, until repairs are completed. 093024
The City has had ongoing issues with a leak in the water supply tank on the Sheep Mountain Well for some time.
The contractor is beginning work on Tuesday (October 1st) and this repair work is expected to last for 14 days.
While this work is being performed the City will be unable to pump any water from the Sheep Mountain Well and must rely solely on the Little Boxelder Spring to supply all of Douglas’ water needs.
High-consumption users have already been notified, but residential users are also being asked to stop watering their lawns for the next couple of weeks, until repairs are completed. 093024
Pre-season passes for Hogadon Basin Ski Area will go sale Oct. 1st.
Pre-season prices will be in effect until Dec 1.
Skiers will now be able to create a profile online that allows them to buy day and season passes, sign waivers and upload pictures online, eliminating the need to wait in some lines on ski day.
The new RFID-equipped cards can be scanned while they are zipped up in coat pockets, helping to prevent loss.
The projected opening date is Dec. 6, though that can vary based on snowfall amounts and conditions on Casper Mountain. 093024
Pre-season prices will be in effect until Dec 1.
Skiers will now be able to create a profile online that allows them to buy day and season passes, sign waivers and upload pictures online, eliminating the need to wait in some lines on ski day.
The new RFID-equipped cards can be scanned while they are zipped up in coat pockets, helping to prevent loss.
The projected opening date is Dec. 6, though that can vary based on snowfall amounts and conditions on Casper Mountain. 093024
The U.S. government is backing the Halleck Creek rare earth project west of Wheatland with up to $456 million in financing from the Export-Import Bank of the United States.
The funding, part of EXIM’s Make More in America Initiative, highlights the project’s national importance in countering China’s dominance in the rare earth market.
Halleck Creek, under American Rare Earths, aims to secure a 100% domestic supply of rare earth magnet metals used in various technologies, keeping the value chain within the U.S. 093024
The funding, part of EXIM’s Make More in America Initiative, highlights the project’s national importance in countering China’s dominance in the rare earth market.
Halleck Creek, under American Rare Earths, aims to secure a 100% domestic supply of rare earth magnet metals used in various technologies, keeping the value chain within the U.S. 093024
The La Bonte Fire is now officially 100% contained.
The Bureau of Land Management said Thursday that the fire south of Douglas near Easterbrook, scorched about 3,500 acres of BLM and private land in a remote area before containment was completed Wednesday.
The fire was first reported on Sept. 12, and at least 200 personnel, along with air support, were involved in fighting the blaze.
The official cause of the fire remains under investigation. 092624
The Bureau of Land Management said Thursday that the fire south of Douglas near Easterbrook, scorched about 3,500 acres of BLM and private land in a remote area before containment was completed Wednesday.
The fire was first reported on Sept. 12, and at least 200 personnel, along with air support, were involved in fighting the blaze.
The official cause of the fire remains under investigation. 092624
The Converse County School District #1 school board is considering adopting a rule to allow approved staff members to carry a concealed firearm on district property.
The board intends to vote on this rule at their regular board meeting on October 8th.
The board will consider input from interested stakeholders at a special meeting tonight, Wednesday, September 25th.
Please read the entire rule and regulations before offering input.
Tonight's meeting is open to the public. It begins at 7:00PM in the Douglas High School Auditorium. 092524
The board intends to vote on this rule at their regular board meeting on October 8th.
The board will consider input from interested stakeholders at a special meeting tonight, Wednesday, September 25th.
Please read the entire rule and regulations before offering input.
Tonight's meeting is open to the public. It begins at 7:00PM in the Douglas High School Auditorium. 092524
The Johnson County War was a violent conflict between wealthy cattle barons and smaller ranchers in 1892 Wyoming.
It will be the focus of a lecture by historian Mark Warren, presented by the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum in Douglas.
Warren's research explores Nate Champion's heroic role in the conflict, where he stood against powerful cattle interests and became a martyr for independent ranchers.
Warren will present “Nate Champion and the Johnson County War” on Saturday, September 21 at 2 p.m. at the Ruth James Williams Memorial Conference Center, next to the museum on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. 091924
It will be the focus of a lecture by historian Mark Warren, presented by the Wyoming Pioneer Memorial Museum in Douglas.
Warren's research explores Nate Champion's heroic role in the conflict, where he stood against powerful cattle interests and became a martyr for independent ranchers.
Warren will present “Nate Champion and the Johnson County War” on Saturday, September 21 at 2 p.m. at the Ruth James Williams Memorial Conference Center, next to the museum on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. 091924
Firefighters continued to make progress controlling the LaBonte fire in southern Converse County.
Rain did hit the LaBonte fire is 7 miles west of Esterbrook on Tuesday, but not enough to put it out. The fire is holding steady at just under 3500 acres. Containment improved from 12 percent on Monday, to 44 percent containment Wednesday morning. Cost to fight the LaBonte fire is at $4.7 million dollars and growing.
The Bear Creek Fire is in Sybille Canyon, off Highway 34 between Wheatland and Laramie is now 80 percent contained and holding at just over 1400 acres.
The Short Draw Fire is burning in the northern Campbell County on both side of the Wyoming-Montana state line, about 10 miles west of Highway 59. That fire is just over 34 thousand acres, 74 percent containment.
The Campbell County Fire Department reported a new wildfire start Tuesday afternoon.
The new fire was on the Campbell /Johnson Co line, south of Fortification Rd. and had burned an estimated 500-1000 acres.
Johnson/Campbell/Sheridan counties are on scene with BLM and Campbell County Road & Bridge.
Rain did help moderate fire behavior on that new blaze. 091824
Rain did hit the LaBonte fire is 7 miles west of Esterbrook on Tuesday, but not enough to put it out. The fire is holding steady at just under 3500 acres. Containment improved from 12 percent on Monday, to 44 percent containment Wednesday morning. Cost to fight the LaBonte fire is at $4.7 million dollars and growing.
The Bear Creek Fire is in Sybille Canyon, off Highway 34 between Wheatland and Laramie is now 80 percent contained and holding at just over 1400 acres.
The Short Draw Fire is burning in the northern Campbell County on both side of the Wyoming-Montana state line, about 10 miles west of Highway 59. That fire is just over 34 thousand acres, 74 percent containment.
The Campbell County Fire Department reported a new wildfire start Tuesday afternoon.
The new fire was on the Campbell /Johnson Co line, south of Fortification Rd. and had burned an estimated 500-1000 acres.
Johnson/Campbell/Sheridan counties are on scene with BLM and Campbell County Road & Bridge.
Rain did help moderate fire behavior on that new blaze. 091824
Wildfires continue to blaze up Wyoming.
The LaBonte fire is south of Baldy Peak and west of Esterbrook, and grew to 470 acres overnight. The fire is working its way east/northeast. Additional personnel and equipment have been requested.
The Bear Creek Fire is in Sybille Canyon, off Highway 34 between Wheatland and Laramie. It's burned about 2500 acres, with about 60 personnel on scene. Pre-evacuation notices are in effect east of Morton Pass.
A new wildfire has started on the northern end of Campbell County. The Short Draw Fire is burning on both side of the Wyoming-Montana state line, about 10 miles west of Highway 59. The fire added 10 thousand acres yesterday, now at 30,500 acres this morning, and some structures have been lost. Air support has been called in. 091324
The LaBonte fire is south of Baldy Peak and west of Esterbrook, and grew to 470 acres overnight. The fire is working its way east/northeast. Additional personnel and equipment have been requested.
The Bear Creek Fire is in Sybille Canyon, off Highway 34 between Wheatland and Laramie. It's burned about 2500 acres, with about 60 personnel on scene. Pre-evacuation notices are in effect east of Morton Pass.
A new wildfire has started on the northern end of Campbell County. The Short Draw Fire is burning on both side of the Wyoming-Montana state line, about 10 miles west of Highway 59. The fire added 10 thousand acres yesterday, now at 30,500 acres this morning, and some structures have been lost. Air support has been called in. 091324
Douglas Police are investigating an incident Thursday afternoon at Douglas Upper Elementary School.
At 3:24 P.M. police responded to a report of a Hispanic male in early 20’s wearing a black and white camouflaged mask, black pants and shirt, black beanie, that pulled a gun on two females near Douglas Upper Elementary.
Due to the proximity of the school and safety concerns, officers responded emergent and took precautionary measures.
DPD said they had officers in the school, and patrolling in the immediate area.
This incident is remains under investigation. 091324
At 3:24 P.M. police responded to a report of a Hispanic male in early 20’s wearing a black and white camouflaged mask, black pants and shirt, black beanie, that pulled a gun on two females near Douglas Upper Elementary.
Due to the proximity of the school and safety concerns, officers responded emergent and took precautionary measures.
DPD said they had officers in the school, and patrolling in the immediate area.
This incident is remains under investigation. 091324
The average teacher will last about 15 years in the profession.
A Douglas teacher has been commended for blowing that average out of the water with more than 40 years of teaching.
This month Wyoming Education Superintendent Megan Degenfelder recognized Shelly Falkenburg, who's spent her entire career in CCSD#1.
Because of her many positions across the district over the years, Mrs. Falkenburg has had the privilege to teach many children of her former students.
She inspired many, some who went on to become teachers, because they wanted to have the same impact on others as Mrs. Falkenburg made on them.
Falkenburg retired May of 2024. 091224
A Douglas teacher has been commended for blowing that average out of the water with more than 40 years of teaching.
This month Wyoming Education Superintendent Megan Degenfelder recognized Shelly Falkenburg, who's spent her entire career in CCSD#1.
Because of her many positions across the district over the years, Mrs. Falkenburg has had the privilege to teach many children of her former students.
She inspired many, some who went on to become teachers, because they wanted to have the same impact on others as Mrs. Falkenburg made on them.
Falkenburg retired May of 2024. 091224
The 96th Annual Wyoming Ram Sale takes place at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas this Tuesday.
The Wyoming Wool Growers has historically conducted one of the premier Ram Sales in the region, offering the highest quality rams meeting some of the most rigorous standards of any sale in the country, and has consistantly rendered some of the highest prices for stud rams in the nation.
The 96th Annual Wyoming Ram Sale gets underway Tuesday morning at 11 AM at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. 090924
The Wyoming Wool Growers has historically conducted one of the premier Ram Sales in the region, offering the highest quality rams meeting some of the most rigorous standards of any sale in the country, and has consistantly rendered some of the highest prices for stud rams in the nation.
The 96th Annual Wyoming Ram Sale gets underway Tuesday morning at 11 AM at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. 090924
Fire on the Mountain.
Rural fire crews responded to a wildfire in far southern Converse County Tuesday afternoon. The Fred fire was 19 miles due south of Douglas, about 5 miles north of Esterbrook.
The fire was reported at about 6:30 pm, and had burned about 10 acres.
Smoke from the fire could be seen from Douglas, and some posts on Facebook showed flames from a distance. 090424
Rural fire crews responded to a wildfire in far southern Converse County Tuesday afternoon. The Fred fire was 19 miles due south of Douglas, about 5 miles north of Esterbrook.
The fire was reported at about 6:30 pm, and had burned about 10 acres.
Smoke from the fire could be seen from Douglas, and some posts on Facebook showed flames from a distance. 090424
A pair of hunters from Douglas were at the right place, at the right time, with the right skill sets... to rescue a wrecked and hurt airplane pilot from a fire outside Meeteetse on Sunday.
Steve Atencio, a Wyoming Army Guard Black Hawk pilot, and J.R. Larsen, a former athletic trainer, were hunting big horn sheep when they heard the crash.
They located the wreckage, saving the injured pilot, but the passenger, 78 year old Mary Lou Sanderson of Lake Havasu, Arizona, was killed.
Atencio used his firefighting skills to assist, guiding a rescue helicopter to the scene.
The pilot is recovering in Billings, Montana. 090424
Steve Atencio, a Wyoming Army Guard Black Hawk pilot, and J.R. Larsen, a former athletic trainer, were hunting big horn sheep when they heard the crash.
They located the wreckage, saving the injured pilot, but the passenger, 78 year old Mary Lou Sanderson of Lake Havasu, Arizona, was killed.
Atencio used his firefighting skills to assist, guiding a rescue helicopter to the scene.
The pilot is recovering in Billings, Montana. 090424
Teachers or administration could be armed in the classroom.
The Converse County School District #1 school board is considering adopting a rule to allow approved staff members to carry a concealed firearm on district property.
Two years ago, the school district began a comprehensive review process to create a concealed carry policy that would allow approved employees to carry firearms on district property.
The board intends to vote on this rule at their regular board meeting on October 8, 2024.
Between now and then, the board wants to consider input from interested stakeholders.
CCSD1 is inviting the public to come to a public comments meeting this Wednesday, August 28th at 7pm at the DHS auditorium.
Another special meeting will be held on September 25th. You can also provide a written comment by email.
The proposed concealed-carry policy and more information are posted on the school district website, ccsd1.org. 082824
The Converse County School District #1 school board is considering adopting a rule to allow approved staff members to carry a concealed firearm on district property.
Two years ago, the school district began a comprehensive review process to create a concealed carry policy that would allow approved employees to carry firearms on district property.
The board intends to vote on this rule at their regular board meeting on October 8, 2024.
Between now and then, the board wants to consider input from interested stakeholders.
CCSD1 is inviting the public to come to a public comments meeting this Wednesday, August 28th at 7pm at the DHS auditorium.
Another special meeting will be held on September 25th. You can also provide a written comment by email.
The proposed concealed-carry policy and more information are posted on the school district website, ccsd1.org. 082824
Two fires popped up in eastern Converse County on Tuesday.
The Flat Top fire burned 59 acres just east of Dickau Road, and the Lost Springs Creek 5 fire burned 11 acres just east of Shawnee and just north of Highway 18-20.
Converse County Rural Firefighters were called out on both fires. 082824
The Flat Top fire burned 59 acres just east of Dickau Road, and the Lost Springs Creek 5 fire burned 11 acres just east of Shawnee and just north of Highway 18-20.
Converse County Rural Firefighters were called out on both fires. 082824
What will hunters find when they take to the field this fall?
The Wyoming Game & Fish Department has released its hunting forecast for eight regions around the state.
In the Casper region, Game & Fish says pronghorn populations have fluctuated in recent years. Some herds around Casper have remained at or near population objectives, while herds to the northeast from Douglas to Lusk to Sundance are still far below objective.
Mule deer populations have decreased or remained stable throughout the region over the past several years, and all of the region’s populations remain well below management goals. This is due to poor survival of mule deer caused by droughts, changes in habitat conditions, disease in some herds and predation.
White-tailed deer populations experienced substantial die-offs in 2021, and in some areas to a lesser extent in 2022 due to outbreaks of epizootic hemorrhagic disease. 2023 saw very low numbers of white-tails in most of the region, especially in the Black Hills. Numbers have begun to rebound in the Casper and Douglas areas.
Elk numbers remain at or above objective in all Casper Region herds, and hunting seasons continue to be liberalized in most areas. The region continues to provide excellent bull-hunting opportunities, with many limited quota areas boasting high harvest success and good antler quality. 082824
The Wyoming Game & Fish Department has released its hunting forecast for eight regions around the state.
In the Casper region, Game & Fish says pronghorn populations have fluctuated in recent years. Some herds around Casper have remained at or near population objectives, while herds to the northeast from Douglas to Lusk to Sundance are still far below objective.
Mule deer populations have decreased or remained stable throughout the region over the past several years, and all of the region’s populations remain well below management goals. This is due to poor survival of mule deer caused by droughts, changes in habitat conditions, disease in some herds and predation.
White-tailed deer populations experienced substantial die-offs in 2021, and in some areas to a lesser extent in 2022 due to outbreaks of epizootic hemorrhagic disease. 2023 saw very low numbers of white-tails in most of the region, especially in the Black Hills. Numbers have begun to rebound in the Casper and Douglas areas.
Elk numbers remain at or above objective in all Casper Region herds, and hunting seasons continue to be liberalized in most areas. The region continues to provide excellent bull-hunting opportunities, with many limited quota areas boasting high harvest success and good antler quality. 082824
Five big fires still burning in Wyoming.
The House Draw fire east & south of Buffalo is holding steady at almost 175 thousand acres, and it's now 88 percent contained. It's been burning since Wednesday.
The Flat Rock Fire 13 miles west of Gillette has grown to almost 53 thousand with 35 percent containment.
The Constitution Fire has burned more than 24 thousand acres north of Gillette, with 28 percent containment.
The Remington Fire is actually the largest fire now, exploding for 18 thousand acres on Friday to more than 196 thousand acres and zero percent containment on Sunday. A small piece of that fire is in far northeastern Sheridan County, with most of the fire burning in Montana, towards Birney and Ashland.
The fifth fire is the Fish Creek Fire in western Wyoming, Fremont & Teton Counties. It's just over 11 thousand acres and 23 percent percent containment. It's the only mountain fire in the state, burning on the Jackson Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest in heavy timber, understory & standing dead trees. The Fish Creek Fire has been burning since Friday, August 16th. 082624
The House Draw fire east & south of Buffalo is holding steady at almost 175 thousand acres, and it's now 88 percent contained. It's been burning since Wednesday.
The Flat Rock Fire 13 miles west of Gillette has grown to almost 53 thousand with 35 percent containment.
The Constitution Fire has burned more than 24 thousand acres north of Gillette, with 28 percent containment.
The Remington Fire is actually the largest fire now, exploding for 18 thousand acres on Friday to more than 196 thousand acres and zero percent containment on Sunday. A small piece of that fire is in far northeastern Sheridan County, with most of the fire burning in Montana, towards Birney and Ashland.
The fifth fire is the Fish Creek Fire in western Wyoming, Fremont & Teton Counties. It's just over 11 thousand acres and 23 percent percent containment. It's the only mountain fire in the state, burning on the Jackson Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest in heavy timber, understory & standing dead trees. The Fish Creek Fire has been burning since Friday, August 16th. 082624
A grass fire on the Barber Ranch west of Douglas forced the closure of I-25 between Douglas and Casper Wednesday afternoon.
Converse County Emergency Manager Russ Dalgarn said the fire was showing 40-foot flames at one point...
Converse County Emergency Manager Russ Dalgarn said the fire was showing 40-foot flames at one point...
The fire was making a run towards the two natural gas plants on Natural Bridge Road, so the county made the decision to evacuate Natural Bridge Road and Barber Road, but shortly after the notice, rain showers came through and laid the fire down.
I-25 was closed both directions between Douglas and Casper from about 5pm til 6:15pm.
The evacuation order on Natural Bridge Road and Barber Road was lifted at 6:20pm. 082124
I-25 was closed both directions between Douglas and Casper from about 5pm til 6:15pm.
The evacuation order on Natural Bridge Road and Barber Road was lifted at 6:20pm. 082124
Tuesday was primary election day across Wyoming.
State House Districts 6 and 62 both drew a lot of attention in the primaries.
In House District 6, which includes Douglas and part of Converse County, by a 116 vote margin, incumbant Tomi Strock maintains her seat in Cheyenne, beating challenger & former district 6 representative Aaron Clausen, 1278 to 1162.
HD 62, which includes Glenrock, Evansville, parts of western Converse County and eastern Natrona County, shows just a 7 vote difference. Edis Allen beat Kevin Campbell in Converse County, but Campbell took the Natrona County portion of the district. Total between the two, Campbell gets 794 votes... Allen gets 787... Kevin Campbell shows a slight edge for the seat, probably by law gets a recount.
Other statewide races on the ballot included US Senator & Representative, John Barrasso and Harriet Hageman both win the Republican nomination in Converse County and statewide, both will advance to the General Election
Incumbent Brian Boner ran unopposed for another term representing State Senate District 2,
Locally, the big race was for two seats on the Converse County Commission.
Five candidates ran, all as Republicans,
Don Blackburn got the top talley with 1983 votes, and Rick Grant keeps his seat on the Commission with 1218 votes.
Tony Lehner got 1094, Joe Benedetta recieved 1024, and Darek Joppru received 824 votes.
Blackburn & Grant will advance to November's General Election, where they'll run unopposed.
Local non-partisan races, there were only one name filed for each of the following offices... incumbent Kim Pexton for Mayor of Douglas, Josh Valk for a two-year term on the Douglas City Council, a seat left open by John Bartling, who chose not to run again; incumbents Ron McNare and Matt Schmitt for two-four-year terms on the Douglas City Council; newcomer Russ Dalgarn and incumbent Margaret Nunn on the Glenrock Town Council and incumbent Donna Weaver for one of two-seats on the Rolling Hills Town Council. Candidates for all of those are running unopposed, and will advance to the general election.
082024
State House Districts 6 and 62 both drew a lot of attention in the primaries.
In House District 6, which includes Douglas and part of Converse County, by a 116 vote margin, incumbant Tomi Strock maintains her seat in Cheyenne, beating challenger & former district 6 representative Aaron Clausen, 1278 to 1162.
HD 62, which includes Glenrock, Evansville, parts of western Converse County and eastern Natrona County, shows just a 7 vote difference. Edis Allen beat Kevin Campbell in Converse County, but Campbell took the Natrona County portion of the district. Total between the two, Campbell gets 794 votes... Allen gets 787... Kevin Campbell shows a slight edge for the seat, probably by law gets a recount.
Other statewide races on the ballot included US Senator & Representative, John Barrasso and Harriet Hageman both win the Republican nomination in Converse County and statewide, both will advance to the General Election
Incumbent Brian Boner ran unopposed for another term representing State Senate District 2,
Locally, the big race was for two seats on the Converse County Commission.
Five candidates ran, all as Republicans,
Don Blackburn got the top talley with 1983 votes, and Rick Grant keeps his seat on the Commission with 1218 votes.
Tony Lehner got 1094, Joe Benedetta recieved 1024, and Darek Joppru received 824 votes.
Blackburn & Grant will advance to November's General Election, where they'll run unopposed.
Local non-partisan races, there were only one name filed for each of the following offices... incumbent Kim Pexton for Mayor of Douglas, Josh Valk for a two-year term on the Douglas City Council, a seat left open by John Bartling, who chose not to run again; incumbents Ron McNare and Matt Schmitt for two-four-year terms on the Douglas City Council; newcomer Russ Dalgarn and incumbent Margaret Nunn on the Glenrock Town Council and incumbent Donna Weaver for one of two-seats on the Rolling Hills Town Council. Candidates for all of those are running unopposed, and will advance to the general election.
082024
Top talent from around the Cowboy State will be performing this week at the Wyoming State Fair in Douglas.
Fair general manager Courtny Conkle says they're bringing in the best...
Top talent from around the Cowboy State will be performing this week at the Wyoming State Fair in Douglas.
Fair general manager Courtny Conkle says they're bringing in the best...
There were a couple of shows over the weekend, and judging has begun.
Today, Monday, the Youth Horse Shows begin at 8AM in the Pepsi Equine and outdoor areas. Today is a check in day for 4H & FFA exhibits, and many open class exhibits are being judged.
The Wyoming State Fair officially opens in Douglas on Tuesday and continues through Saturday, August 17th. 081224
Today, Monday, the Youth Horse Shows begin at 8AM in the Pepsi Equine and outdoor areas. Today is a check in day for 4H & FFA exhibits, and many open class exhibits are being judged.
The Wyoming State Fair officially opens in Douglas on Tuesday and continues through Saturday, August 17th. 081224
SATURDAY FIRE UPDATE - HARTVILLLE RESIDENTS WERE ALLOWED TO RETURN TO THEIR HOMES AGAIN ON SATURDAY AFTERNOON.
THE PLATTE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE EVACUATED THE COMMUNITY FOR A SECOND TIME ON FRIDAY EVENING AFTER THE WIND SHIFTED AND PUSHED THE PLEASANT VALLEY FIRE BACK TO THE WEST, THREATENING THE COMMUNITY AGAIN.
THE FIRE, WHICH BEGAN ON JULY 30TH, NOW STANDS AT 26 THOUSAND ACRES IN PLATTE AND GOSHEN COUNTIES NORTH OF HIGHWAY 26. MORE THAN 200 FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL FIREFIGHTERS ARE WORKING THE BLAZE, WHICH IS ESTIMATED AT 40 PERCENT CONTAINMENT.
ALL EVACUATION ORDERS WERE LIFTED SATURDAY AFTERNOON.
HIGHWAY 26 AND HIGHWAY 270 ARE NOW OPEN.
WHALEN CANYON AND PLEASANT VALLEY ARE OPEN TO RESIDENTS ONLY. 080324
THE PLATTE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE EVACUATED THE COMMUNITY FOR A SECOND TIME ON FRIDAY EVENING AFTER THE WIND SHIFTED AND PUSHED THE PLEASANT VALLEY FIRE BACK TO THE WEST, THREATENING THE COMMUNITY AGAIN.
THE FIRE, WHICH BEGAN ON JULY 30TH, NOW STANDS AT 26 THOUSAND ACRES IN PLATTE AND GOSHEN COUNTIES NORTH OF HIGHWAY 26. MORE THAN 200 FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL FIREFIGHTERS ARE WORKING THE BLAZE, WHICH IS ESTIMATED AT 40 PERCENT CONTAINMENT.
ALL EVACUATION ORDERS WERE LIFTED SATURDAY AFTERNOON.
HIGHWAY 26 AND HIGHWAY 270 ARE NOW OPEN.
WHALEN CANYON AND PLEASANT VALLEY ARE OPEN TO RESIDENTS ONLY. 080324
THURSDAY FIRES UPDATE - 8A Thu - Per Platte County Emergency Management and the Platte County Fire Warden, the evacuations of the Town of Hartville, Pleasant Valley and Whalen Canyon have been lifted, all residents may return to their homes. All closed roads have been opened however we ask that traffic on Whalen Canyon Road be kept to residents of that area only whereas we still have fire fighters and fire fighting operations continuing in this area. The fire itself has not been contained and residents in these areas need to remain vigilant of any fire dangers in the area.
The Pleasant Valley Fire in Platte and Goshen Counties is currently estimated at 28 thousand acres, zero percent containment.
A federal Type-3 fire team will assume management of firefighting efforts today.
By late Wednesday afternoon, Highway 26 had been re-opened to traffic between I-25 Dwyer Junction and Lingle. Highway 270 remained closed between Manville and Hartville.
So far, due to hard work by firefighters, no structures have been lost.
The Cold Springs Fire is about 20 miles southwest of Douglas out Highway 91, Cold Springs Road.
That fire was estimated Wednesday morning at about 8000 acres, now estimated at 1800 acres & 80 percent containment.
Mop-up operations are expected through today. No structures or homes were lost in this fire. 080124
The Pleasant Valley Fire in Platte and Goshen Counties is currently estimated at 28 thousand acres, zero percent containment.
A federal Type-3 fire team will assume management of firefighting efforts today.
By late Wednesday afternoon, Highway 26 had been re-opened to traffic between I-25 Dwyer Junction and Lingle. Highway 270 remained closed between Manville and Hartville.
So far, due to hard work by firefighters, no structures have been lost.
The Cold Springs Fire is about 20 miles southwest of Douglas out Highway 91, Cold Springs Road.
That fire was estimated Wednesday morning at about 8000 acres, now estimated at 1800 acres & 80 percent containment.
Mop-up operations are expected through today. No structures or homes were lost in this fire. 080124
Hot, dry weather made for a busy afternoon for local fire crews Tuesday afternoon.
Converse County crews responded to a wildfire southwest of Douglas, about 20 miles out Highway 91, Cold Springs Road. Smoke from the Magpie fire could be seen from Douglas. A fireline was established around the burn area yesterday evening. Estimated this morning at 8000 acres.
And Platte County fire crews battled a 1200 acre blaze off highway 270 between Hartville and US Highway 26. The town of Hartville was evacuated around 6:30 Tuesday evening, as it was under direct threat of being overrun by the fire. A relocation center was set up at Camp Guernsey. Black Hills Energy shut off natural gas service to the Hartville area.
The 8:40 AM report this morning said the wind died down for several hours last night, allowing units to get some areas put down, but the morning winds started blowouts along Highway 26.
As of this morning, Goshen County Emergency Managment said no structures have been lost in Platte or Goshen Counties.
Goshen County Emergency Management reported that Platte County's fire had merged with the Haystacks Fire last night and both were still running hard.
Goshen, Platte, State Forestry and BLM have multiple units on scene, including Single Engine Air Tankers, Helicopters and Heavy Air Tankers (C-130) aircraft dropping water and retardant all day.
Highway 26 from I-25 Dwyer Junction to Lingle is closed... Highway 270 from Manville to Guernsey is closed. 073124
Converse County crews responded to a wildfire southwest of Douglas, about 20 miles out Highway 91, Cold Springs Road. Smoke from the Magpie fire could be seen from Douglas. A fireline was established around the burn area yesterday evening. Estimated this morning at 8000 acres.
And Platte County fire crews battled a 1200 acre blaze off highway 270 between Hartville and US Highway 26. The town of Hartville was evacuated around 6:30 Tuesday evening, as it was under direct threat of being overrun by the fire. A relocation center was set up at Camp Guernsey. Black Hills Energy shut off natural gas service to the Hartville area.
The 8:40 AM report this morning said the wind died down for several hours last night, allowing units to get some areas put down, but the morning winds started blowouts along Highway 26.
As of this morning, Goshen County Emergency Managment said no structures have been lost in Platte or Goshen Counties.
Goshen County Emergency Management reported that Platte County's fire had merged with the Haystacks Fire last night and both were still running hard.
Goshen, Platte, State Forestry and BLM have multiple units on scene, including Single Engine Air Tankers, Helicopters and Heavy Air Tankers (C-130) aircraft dropping water and retardant all day.
Highway 26 from I-25 Dwyer Junction to Lingle is closed... Highway 270 from Manville to Guernsey is closed. 073124
A federal judge has ordered the Bureau of Land Management to halt issuing new oil and gas drilling permits on nearly 120,000 acres of public land in Wyoming.
The July 16 decision by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper requires a review of environmental impacts to be completed by mid-January.
This follows a 2022 lease sale.
While leases remain, permitting is paused.
The judge cited minor technical issues and potential climate harms needing further assessment.
Leases affected are primarily in Converse, Campbell, Sublette and Sweetwater Counties. 073124
The July 16 decision by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper requires a review of environmental impacts to be completed by mid-January.
This follows a 2022 lease sale.
While leases remain, permitting is paused.
The judge cited minor technical issues and potential climate harms needing further assessment.
Leases affected are primarily in Converse, Campbell, Sublette and Sweetwater Counties. 073124
Downtown Douglas drivers get a heads-up from the City.
Eastbound lanes of Center Street will have temporary closures now through September due to an ongoing sewer replacement project.
Detours will direct traffic to Oak Street or Elm Street, as needed.
The City of Douglas says Center Street will be open during the Wyoming State Fair, August 13th through the 17th. 072924
Eastbound lanes of Center Street will have temporary closures now through September due to an ongoing sewer replacement project.
Detours will direct traffic to Oak Street or Elm Street, as needed.
The City of Douglas says Center Street will be open during the Wyoming State Fair, August 13th through the 17th. 072924
FInal decision... the Douglas Municipal Waterpark will not re-open this summer.
The City of Douglas made the announcement Friday afternoon.
Due to unforseen mechanical issues with a pump, and unavailablility of replacement parts, the decision was made to close the pool and waterslides for the remainder of the season.
Due to the unexpected early closure, the city will now begin demolition for a planned renovation that was slated to start this fall.
The pool in Washington Park will have a new design that includes a lap swim area as well as the waterslides and zero-depth play areas. 071524
The City of Douglas made the announcement Friday afternoon.
Due to unforseen mechanical issues with a pump, and unavailablility of replacement parts, the decision was made to close the pool and waterslides for the remainder of the season.
Due to the unexpected early closure, the city will now begin demolition for a planned renovation that was slated to start this fall.
The pool in Washington Park will have a new design that includes a lap swim area as well as the waterslides and zero-depth play areas. 071524
One of Douglas's public pools has reopened.
Rec Director Nick DeWitt says they've been able to make the needed repairs on the DHS Douglas Rec Center pool...
Rec Director Nick DeWitt says they've been able to make the needed repairs on the DHS Douglas Rec Center pool...
DeWitt says there are several programs that will be able to use the pool right away...
No open swim right now... but they're looking at some options...
The Douglas Municipal Waterpark in Washington Park had to shut down TFN earlier this week due to some technical issues with a pump. 071224
The Converse County Fair gets underway this weekend with horse shows and the youth rodeo beginning on Saturday, and the Bud Tillard Memorial steer roping at noon on Sunday.
A full week's worth of fun next week, including PRCA Xtreme Broncs on Monday night. The market sale is Friday, July 19th at 4pm.
A complete schedule of events is on the Converse County Fair Facebook page, or at ConverseCountyFair.com. 071224
A full week's worth of fun next week, including PRCA Xtreme Broncs on Monday night. The market sale is Friday, July 19th at 4pm.
A complete schedule of events is on the Converse County Fair Facebook page, or at ConverseCountyFair.com. 071224
The circus is coming to town.
Main Street Douglas is bringing the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus to Douglas on Friday, July 12th.
This authentic One-Ring, Big Top Circus featurs Big Cats presented by Trey Key, our Aerialist Extraordinaire Simone on the trapeze, 10th generation Loyal Bareback Horse Riders, the Perez Daredevil Duo on the Tight Rope and Wheel of Destiny, Elizabeth Ayala's incredible foot juggling and hair hang and everyone's favorite Circus Clown Leo Acton.
Tent raising & Big Top tours start Friday morning at 9:30 AM, the Midway opens at 4, and the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus will offer two shows, Friday at 5:00 & 7:30 pm at Bartling Park in Douglas.
Advance discount tickets are available at the Douglas Railroad Museum & Visitor Center, and at the College Inn Bar.
Tickets at the gate are $16 for adults, $9 dollars for children age 2 to 12 and seniors 65 and older. 071124
Main Street Douglas is bringing the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus to Douglas on Friday, July 12th.
This authentic One-Ring, Big Top Circus featurs Big Cats presented by Trey Key, our Aerialist Extraordinaire Simone on the trapeze, 10th generation Loyal Bareback Horse Riders, the Perez Daredevil Duo on the Tight Rope and Wheel of Destiny, Elizabeth Ayala's incredible foot juggling and hair hang and everyone's favorite Circus Clown Leo Acton.
Tent raising & Big Top tours start Friday morning at 9:30 AM, the Midway opens at 4, and the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus will offer two shows, Friday at 5:00 & 7:30 pm at Bartling Park in Douglas.
Advance discount tickets are available at the Douglas Railroad Museum & Visitor Center, and at the College Inn Bar.
Tickets at the gate are $16 for adults, $9 dollars for children age 2 to 12 and seniors 65 and older. 071124
A heads-up to drivers through Casper.
WYDOT has begun process of switching interstate traffic from southbound lanes to northbound lanes as work continues to replace I-25 bridges.
Nightly closures will be from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., with detours in place and posted, using Bryan Stock Trail and Amoco Road.
Overnight closures will be in effect Wednesday, July 10 through Sunday, July 14.
Traffic should be switched to northbound lanes by the morning of Monday, July 15. 071124
WYDOT has begun process of switching interstate traffic from southbound lanes to northbound lanes as work continues to replace I-25 bridges.
Nightly closures will be from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., with detours in place and posted, using Bryan Stock Trail and Amoco Road.
Overnight closures will be in effect Wednesday, July 10 through Sunday, July 14.
Traffic should be switched to northbound lanes by the morning of Monday, July 15. 071124
Phone, online and other digital scams, particularly ones involving cryptocurrency transactions, have been on the rise in Douglas.
Converse County Sheriff Clint Becker says there's a whole new round of scammers who call impersonating a local officer...
Converse County Sheriff Clint Becker says there's a whole new round of scammers who call impersonating a local officer...
Becker says the scammers tell people to go to a Bitcoin kiosk like the one at Safeway in Douglas to pay off the imaginary bond or fine.
He also said that the scammers are professionals who are very convincing...
He also said that the scammers are professionals who are very convincing...
Sheriff Becker says you should always contact local law enforcement if something doesn't smell right...
A similar rash of scams have also been reported out of Campbell County. 071024
With the hottest weather of the summer forcast for later this week... the Douglas Municipal Water Park is closed.
Douglas Rec Center officials say the poll and waterslides at the Water Park are experiencing some technical difficulties, and the pool will remain closed until further notice.
City of Douglas employees are working hard to get the pool up and going again quickly.
The Douglas Rec Center pool has also been closed for the last week due to equipment issues. 071024
Douglas Rec Center officials say the poll and waterslides at the Water Park are experiencing some technical difficulties, and the pool will remain closed until further notice.
City of Douglas employees are working hard to get the pool up and going again quickly.
The Douglas Rec Center pool has also been closed for the last week due to equipment issues. 071024
The Douglas Police Department has a 4th of July full of fun planned for the Jackalope City.
The First Responders Freedom Fest and 5K will build on Independence Day activities over the past few years, with some new twists.
The fun begins Thursday morning with a 5K run, walk, hop, skip or jump... whatever pace you set is just right.
The Patriotic Kiddie Parade is at 9:00 AM.
The Freedom Fest is from 10:30 til 1pm in Washington Park, with live music, a petting zoo, food trucks, a dunk tank, kids games, face painting and sidewalk chalk art.
The Douglas Volunteer Fire Department's annual 4th of July Fireworks show begins at dusk from the back parking lot at Douglas High School, with a special blend of patriotic hits broadcast on 100.1 FM, KKTY. 070324
The First Responders Freedom Fest and 5K will build on Independence Day activities over the past few years, with some new twists.
The fun begins Thursday morning with a 5K run, walk, hop, skip or jump... whatever pace you set is just right.
The Patriotic Kiddie Parade is at 9:00 AM.
The Freedom Fest is from 10:30 til 1pm in Washington Park, with live music, a petting zoo, food trucks, a dunk tank, kids games, face painting and sidewalk chalk art.
The Douglas Volunteer Fire Department's annual 4th of July Fireworks show begins at dusk from the back parking lot at Douglas High School, with a special blend of patriotic hits broadcast on 100.1 FM, KKTY. 070324
Glendo State Park is a favorite destination to celebrate the 4th of July.
Latest reports from park personnel say the water level on the reservoir is at about 66 percent... that's a little below average for this time of year, but there's still plenty of water to recreate in.
The Elkhorn Boat Ramp is closed for the rest of the year.
Safety notes... Glendo Reservoir is under fire restrictions. Open campfires are not allowed. Gas grills and charcoal grills with lids are allowed.
Fireworks are not allowed on the park. There will be a fireworks display at the Glendo Airport on Friday, July 5th. 070324
Latest reports from park personnel say the water level on the reservoir is at about 66 percent... that's a little below average for this time of year, but there's still plenty of water to recreate in.
The Elkhorn Boat Ramp is closed for the rest of the year.
Safety notes... Glendo Reservoir is under fire restrictions. Open campfires are not allowed. Gas grills and charcoal grills with lids are allowed.
Fireworks are not allowed on the park. There will be a fireworks display at the Glendo Airport on Friday, July 5th. 070324
Names have been released of those involved in Sunday evening's fatal accident on Cold Springs Road just west of Douglas.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol says Troopers said a 2017 Chevrolet 3500 pickup was traveling westbound, and a 2017 Ford Edge was traveling eastbound. The pickup crossed the center line and collided with the Ford Edge in a head-on collision.
The Ford Edge driver was identified as 32-year-old Douglas resident Justine Crouch, who was injured and transported by life flight to Denver, Colorado.
A juvenile located in the back driver side car seat was injured and lifeflighted to Denver.
The 14-year old juvenile in the front passenger seat died on scene from injuries from the crash.
The driver of the pickup was identified as 43-year-old Douglas resident Wesley Kersey. He refused medical treatment on scene.
Kersey has been charged with one count of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide, two counts of Aggravated Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol with Serious Bodily Injury and two counts of Aggravated Vehicular Assault with Serious Bodily Injury. 062624
The Wyoming Highway Patrol says Troopers said a 2017 Chevrolet 3500 pickup was traveling westbound, and a 2017 Ford Edge was traveling eastbound. The pickup crossed the center line and collided with the Ford Edge in a head-on collision.
The Ford Edge driver was identified as 32-year-old Douglas resident Justine Crouch, who was injured and transported by life flight to Denver, Colorado.
A juvenile located in the back driver side car seat was injured and lifeflighted to Denver.
The 14-year old juvenile in the front passenger seat died on scene from injuries from the crash.
The driver of the pickup was identified as 43-year-old Douglas resident Wesley Kersey. He refused medical treatment on scene.
Kersey has been charged with one count of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide, two counts of Aggravated Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol with Serious Bodily Injury and two counts of Aggravated Vehicular Assault with Serious Bodily Injury. 062624
One person died and two others were injured in a rollover crash Sunday evening just west of Douglas.
A Chevy Silverado pickup was westbound along Cold Springs Road, Wyoming Highway 91 between Douglas and the KOA Kampground.
The pickup swerved into the eastbound lane of oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a Ford Edge, forcing the Ford off the road and into a driver’s-side roll.
The Ford tumbled over an embankment and rolled several times before eventually coming to a stop.
A 14-year-old was killed in the wreck, and two more people were injured. One person came away uninjured.
Roads were dry and clear. No word if seatbelts were in use. 062624
A Chevy Silverado pickup was westbound along Cold Springs Road, Wyoming Highway 91 between Douglas and the KOA Kampground.
The pickup swerved into the eastbound lane of oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a Ford Edge, forcing the Ford off the road and into a driver’s-side roll.
The Ford tumbled over an embankment and rolled several times before eventually coming to a stop.
A 14-year-old was killed in the wreck, and two more people were injured. One person came away uninjured.
Roads were dry and clear. No word if seatbelts were in use. 062624
Primary elections are set for August 20th, less than two months away, and the Converse County Clerk's office is already preparing.
County Clerk Karen Rimmer says election equipment to be used for the Primaries will be publicly tested this week...
County Clerk Karen Rimmer says election equipment to be used for the Primaries will be publicly tested this week...
Rimmer says the checks are required by state law...
If the results don't show 100 percent accuracy, they cant use that machine, and it will be pulled from service.
RImmer says the voting machine tests are open to the public, and you may get put to work.
Testing will be done on Thursday, June 27th, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the basement Community Room, at the Converse County Courthouse 107 N. 5th Street in Douglas. 062624
RImmer says the voting machine tests are open to the public, and you may get put to work.
Testing will be done on Thursday, June 27th, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the basement Community Room, at the Converse County Courthouse 107 N. 5th Street in Douglas. 062624
Glendo State Park has announced a power outage for this Tuesday, June 11th, with several areas around the lake to be affected.
Scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the outage will affect :
-Park Headquarters: HQ office, trailer dump station water and the main fee booth
-Bennett Hill: electric sites, water system and fish cleaning station
-Marina
-Reno Cove: Cabin Area, electrical sites and water system
-Two Moon: electric sites and water system.
-Whiskey Gulch: water system
Again, service should be restored by 4pm Tuesday. 061024
Scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the outage will affect :
-Park Headquarters: HQ office, trailer dump station water and the main fee booth
-Bennett Hill: electric sites, water system and fish cleaning station
-Marina
-Reno Cove: Cabin Area, electrical sites and water system
-Two Moon: electric sites and water system.
-Whiskey Gulch: water system
Again, service should be restored by 4pm Tuesday. 061024
New leadership has been chosen for the Douglas FFA chapter.
The new team includes President Dean Shatto, Vice President Megan Stoltenberg, Secretary Elza Moffatt, Treasurer McCoy Horr, Parliamentarian Haylee Gibbs, Reporter Raelea Taylor and Sentinel Tyler Bevers.
FFA members do community service all year round, and offers a great leadership opportunity for kids of any background. 061024
The new team includes President Dean Shatto, Vice President Megan Stoltenberg, Secretary Elza Moffatt, Treasurer McCoy Horr, Parliamentarian Haylee Gibbs, Reporter Raelea Taylor and Sentinel Tyler Bevers.
FFA members do community service all year round, and offers a great leadership opportunity for kids of any background. 061024
A $250,000 charitable gift from Tallgrass will be doubled by state of Wyoming matching funds and used to create a CO2 Storage Excellence Fund at the University of Wyoming School of Energy Resources.
The fund will provide essential support to advance existing efforts in carbon capture, utilization and storage from research and demonstration to commercialization.
Tallgrass has significant natural gas and crude oil operations in Wyoming, including gas and oil pipelines and natural gas processing plants at Douglas and Casper. 060724
The fund will provide essential support to advance existing efforts in carbon capture, utilization and storage from research and demonstration to commercialization.
Tallgrass has significant natural gas and crude oil operations in Wyoming, including gas and oil pipelines and natural gas processing plants at Douglas and Casper. 060724
Thanks to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, the Keith Rider lower park pond will be open to fishing in time for free fishing day, this Saturday, June 1st.
The Converse County SFW group will be giving away free fishing poles to the first 25 kids 16 and under Saturday morning from 9 - 11 am.
Each year Wyoming Game and Fish designates the first Saturday of National Boating and Fishing Week as a free fishing day when anyone can fish in most of Wyoming without a fishing license.
Game and Fish encourages all Wyoming residents to get out and enjoy the great outdoors this weekend! 053024
The Converse County SFW group will be giving away free fishing poles to the first 25 kids 16 and under Saturday morning from 9 - 11 am.
Each year Wyoming Game and Fish designates the first Saturday of National Boating and Fishing Week as a free fishing day when anyone can fish in most of Wyoming without a fishing license.
Game and Fish encourages all Wyoming residents to get out and enjoy the great outdoors this weekend! 053024
A big donation from a Converse County ranch family will benefit the University of Wyoming.
A $2.5 million gift from Art and Catherine Nicholas, owners of Wagonhound Land & Livestock, will boost the University of Wyoming’s Ranch Management and Agricultural Leadership Program.
The donation, matched by the state to total $5 million, establishes the Wyoming Ranching Excellence Fund, supporting students, faculty, and industry engagement, and fostering future leaders in ranch management statewide.
The Nicholas family has also supported the UW rodeo team and the university's American Heritage Center. 052824
A $2.5 million gift from Art and Catherine Nicholas, owners of Wagonhound Land & Livestock, will boost the University of Wyoming’s Ranch Management and Agricultural Leadership Program.
The donation, matched by the state to total $5 million, establishes the Wyoming Ranching Excellence Fund, supporting students, faculty, and industry engagement, and fostering future leaders in ranch management statewide.
The Nicholas family has also supported the UW rodeo team and the university's American Heritage Center. 052824
The Memorial Day weekend means you, and others, will be putting out flowers to remember loved ones at area cemeteries.
In order to keep the Douglas Park Cemetery looking nice, the City of Douglas requests that all flowers, flowerpots and vases from Memorial Day be removed from gravesites by June 17th.
City personnel will remove all artificial sprays, wreaths or decorations that don't comply with Douglas Park Cemetery rules and regulations.
Anything that you wish to keep, needs to be picked up on or before June 16th.
Call Douglas Public Works at 358-9750 for more information. 052824
In order to keep the Douglas Park Cemetery looking nice, the City of Douglas requests that all flowers, flowerpots and vases from Memorial Day be removed from gravesites by June 17th.
City personnel will remove all artificial sprays, wreaths or decorations that don't comply with Douglas Park Cemetery rules and regulations.
Anything that you wish to keep, needs to be picked up on or before June 16th.
Call Douglas Public Works at 358-9750 for more information. 052824
The cost to use some of our favorite area campgrounds is going up.
After two years of development, review, and public input, the Medicine Bow and Routt National Forests have finalized new and increased fees at 89 developed recreation sites.
Campground prices in the Douglas Ranger District are increasing at Campbell Creek, Curtis Gulch, Esterbrook, Friend Park, and the LaPrele Guard Station.
The adjusted fee structure will allow the Forests to sustainably operate, maintain, and improve local developed recreation sites.
A complete list of the impacted sites is available online. Most fee changes at sites will be implemented in 2024.
There are no fee changes for the Thunder Basin National Grassland. 052424
After two years of development, review, and public input, the Medicine Bow and Routt National Forests have finalized new and increased fees at 89 developed recreation sites.
Campground prices in the Douglas Ranger District are increasing at Campbell Creek, Curtis Gulch, Esterbrook, Friend Park, and the LaPrele Guard Station.
The adjusted fee structure will allow the Forests to sustainably operate, maintain, and improve local developed recreation sites.
A complete list of the impacted sites is available online. Most fee changes at sites will be implemented in 2024.
There are no fee changes for the Thunder Basin National Grassland. 052424
Unemployment in Converse County dropped in April, following a statewide trend.
The Converse unemployment rate dropped from 2.8 percent in March to 2.2 percent in April. That's about the same as it was the year before.
The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services says that at 2.2 percent, Converse County had one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state, second only to Weston County at 2 percent. Sublette County had the highest unemployment in Wyoming, at 3.6 percent.
Overall, Wyoming's statewide unemployment rate was flat, at 2.8 percent. 052424
The Converse unemployment rate dropped from 2.8 percent in March to 2.2 percent in April. That's about the same as it was the year before.
The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services says that at 2.2 percent, Converse County had one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state, second only to Weston County at 2 percent. Sublette County had the highest unemployment in Wyoming, at 3.6 percent.
Overall, Wyoming's statewide unemployment rate was flat, at 2.8 percent. 052424
Casper's old Holiday Inn along the North Platte River could be open again as soon as this summer.
A sweep by city officials last summer found massive damage from flooding and squatters. The buildings were condemned by the city, with estimates for cleanup alone at over $3 million dollars.
F Street Rehab is doing business now as the Riverside Hotel at 300 West F St.
Representatives told the Casper City Council this week that they believed they could resurrect the 210-room hotel.
The hotel has also been branded as a Ramada, and an Econolodge before being shut down and boarded up late last year. 052424
A sweep by city officials last summer found massive damage from flooding and squatters. The buildings were condemned by the city, with estimates for cleanup alone at over $3 million dollars.
F Street Rehab is doing business now as the Riverside Hotel at 300 West F St.
Representatives told the Casper City Council this week that they believed they could resurrect the 210-room hotel.
The hotel has also been branded as a Ramada, and an Econolodge before being shut down and boarded up late last year. 052424
Both of Wyoming’s Red Lobster locations will remain open despite their parent company filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on May 20.
A company spokesperson confirmed there are no changes for the state’s two restaurants in Cheyenne and Casper.
Red Lobster continues to operate as usual during bankruptcy, backed by a $100 million financing commitment. 052424
A company spokesperson confirmed there are no changes for the state’s two restaurants in Cheyenne and Casper.
Red Lobster continues to operate as usual during bankruptcy, backed by a $100 million financing commitment. 052424
President Joe Biden has signed into law bipartisan legislation that could help reinvigorate a dormant energy sector in eastern Wyoming...
President Joe Biden has signed into law bipartisan legislation that could help reinvigorate a dormant energy sector in eastern Wyoming...
Senator John Barrasso introduced the legislation in the Senate over a year ago, in March of 2023...
Converse County and the Powder River Basin have an extensive in-situ uranium production history, with proven reserves still waiting for development.
Cameco's Smith Ranch-Highland in-situ mine opened in 1975 and produced 23 million pounds of uranium.
Commercial production was shut down at the mine in 2016 due to weak market conditions and foreign competition. 051524
Cameco's Smith Ranch-Highland in-situ mine opened in 1975 and produced 23 million pounds of uranium.
Commercial production was shut down at the mine in 2016 due to weak market conditions and foreign competition. 051524
State Senator Brian Boner has announced that he will seek re-election to the Wyoming Senate in 2024.
Boner has served Senate District 2, representing Converse and Natrona County, since 2015.
He currently serves as chairman of the Senate Transportation, Highways & Military Affairs committee and the Select Federal Natural Resource Management Committee.
In his re-election campaign announcement, Boner noted that 70% of his personal bills have become law over the past two years, which is over twice the success rate of an average legislator. 051524
Boner has served Senate District 2, representing Converse and Natrona County, since 2015.
He currently serves as chairman of the Senate Transportation, Highways & Military Affairs committee and the Select Federal Natural Resource Management Committee.
In his re-election campaign announcement, Boner noted that 70% of his personal bills have become law over the past two years, which is over twice the success rate of an average legislator. 051524
The Wyoming State Fair has met the challenge.
In 2023, the State Legislature agreed to match contributions dollar for dollar if half a million was raised.
State fair officials announced Thursday that the fair has not only met but exceeded its ambitious goal of raising $500,000 to match a Wyoming Legistaltive Challenge of $500,000 for the Wyoming State Fair Endowment Fund.
All together, a total of over $1 million in funds will create the Wyoming State Fair Endowment, creating an ongoing source of funding for the State Fair. 050324
In 2023, the State Legislature agreed to match contributions dollar for dollar if half a million was raised.
State fair officials announced Thursday that the fair has not only met but exceeded its ambitious goal of raising $500,000 to match a Wyoming Legistaltive Challenge of $500,000 for the Wyoming State Fair Endowment Fund.
All together, a total of over $1 million in funds will create the Wyoming State Fair Endowment, creating an ongoing source of funding for the State Fair. 050324
The Douglas City Council will hold a special session this evening, with one item on the agenda... consideration of a resolution establishing an open container district in the downtown Douglas area.
The downtown outdoor refreshment area, or DORA, sets an area where open containers are allowed from 5pm to midnight on
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Requirements include a wristband to be provided and worn by the establishment from which the alcohol was purchased.
Alcohol must be in original, non-glass containers or clear non-glass cups.
The DORA area basically includes Second Street to Fourth Street, and Walnut Street to Oak Street.
No crossing of Center Street with an open container will be allowed, due to WYDOT rules, and no open containers will be allowed in Jackalope Square without an appropriate permit.
Council meets this evening at 5:30 at Douglas City Hall.
Douglas City Council meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live on Vyve cable channel 9 in Douglas. 050224
The downtown outdoor refreshment area, or DORA, sets an area where open containers are allowed from 5pm to midnight on
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Requirements include a wristband to be provided and worn by the establishment from which the alcohol was purchased.
Alcohol must be in original, non-glass containers or clear non-glass cups.
The DORA area basically includes Second Street to Fourth Street, and Walnut Street to Oak Street.
No crossing of Center Street with an open container will be allowed, due to WYDOT rules, and no open containers will be allowed in Jackalope Square without an appropriate permit.
Council meets this evening at 5:30 at Douglas City Hall.
Douglas City Council meetings are open to the public, and are broadcast live on Vyve cable channel 9 in Douglas. 050224
As a matter of fact, it WAS a meteor.
The National Weather Service in Riverton has confirmed witness reports of a meteor that streaked through the upper atmosphere around 2:35 a.m. on Monday, April 29th.
After reports of a loud boom, the Converse County Sheriffs office checked the oilfields off East Antelope Road and Highway 59 for evidence of an explosion, but found nothing.
The Weather Service said the shooting star passed somewhere between Casper and Douglas, moving south to north. 050124
The National Weather Service in Riverton has confirmed witness reports of a meteor that streaked through the upper atmosphere around 2:35 a.m. on Monday, April 29th.
After reports of a loud boom, the Converse County Sheriffs office checked the oilfields off East Antelope Road and Highway 59 for evidence of an explosion, but found nothing.
The Weather Service said the shooting star passed somewhere between Casper and Douglas, moving south to north. 050124
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is seeking information on three elk that were illegally shot and left to waste southeast of Wright last week.
On April 24, a member of the public discovered and reported two dead bull elk on public land in the Rochelle Hills area.
During the investigation, a cow elk was also discovered along with evidence that the elk were shot multiple times from a distance, then shot in the head at close range.
Game & Fish said the elk were likely killed several days before the investigation.
Anyone with possible information regarding this incident can call the Stop Poaching Hotline at 1-877-943-3847.
Callers may remain anonymous and any information leading to the arrest and conviction may result in a reward of up to $5,000. 050124
On April 24, a member of the public discovered and reported two dead bull elk on public land in the Rochelle Hills area.
During the investigation, a cow elk was also discovered along with evidence that the elk were shot multiple times from a distance, then shot in the head at close range.
Game & Fish said the elk were likely killed several days before the investigation.
Anyone with possible information regarding this incident can call the Stop Poaching Hotline at 1-877-943-3847.
Callers may remain anonymous and any information leading to the arrest and conviction may result in a reward of up to $5,000. 050124
Douglas FFA members traveled to Cheyenne for the 2024 Wyoming State FFA Convention last week... and one group is buying plane tickets for Indianapolis.
The Douglas FFA chapter had quiz bowl, Vet Science, Ag. Sales, Horse Evaluation, and Livestock Evaluation contestants this year.
Congratulations to our Douglas FFA Ag Mechanics team - Miles Chapman, Waylon Boynton, Tyler Bevers, and Dean Shatto, who earned 1st place at State Convention! They'll advance to compete at nationals this fall.
More than 69 thousand students, teachers and guests will attend the 97th National FFA Convention will be held October 23 -26 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 041524
The Douglas FFA chapter had quiz bowl, Vet Science, Ag. Sales, Horse Evaluation, and Livestock Evaluation contestants this year.
Congratulations to our Douglas FFA Ag Mechanics team - Miles Chapman, Waylon Boynton, Tyler Bevers, and Dean Shatto, who earned 1st place at State Convention! They'll advance to compete at nationals this fall.
More than 69 thousand students, teachers and guests will attend the 97th National FFA Convention will be held October 23 -26 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 041524
If you've dreamed of taming a wild horse of your own, the BLM has an opportunity coming up to adopt animals from its care.
The event is this Friday, April 19th at the Off Range Corral site in Wheatland. The event opens at 8 a.m. with the live auction starting at 9 a.m. Up to 30 horses are available for adoption. The auction will run until noon, operating on a first-come, first-served basis.
To learn more about the adoption process and requirements, check out the BLM website. 041524
The event is this Friday, April 19th at the Off Range Corral site in Wheatland. The event opens at 8 a.m. with the live auction starting at 9 a.m. Up to 30 horses are available for adoption. The auction will run until noon, operating on a first-come, first-served basis.
To learn more about the adoption process and requirements, check out the BLM website. 041524
Natrona County Coroner James Whipps has identified the victim of a homicide at Eastridge Mall on Sunday as 14-year-old Robert Dean Maher Jr. of Casper.
According to court documents, Maher was trying to protect his girlfriend from a pair of teens following her and a female friend around Eastridge Mall when he was fatally stabbed.
Two 15-year-old juveniles were charged with first-degree homicide on Monday in relation to the April 7 stabbing. They are being charged as adults.
The coroner’s office is continuing to investigate the incident in conjunction with the Casper Police Department.
A GoFundMe for the Maher family has also been established. 041024
According to court documents, Maher was trying to protect his girlfriend from a pair of teens following her and a female friend around Eastridge Mall when he was fatally stabbed.
Two 15-year-old juveniles were charged with first-degree homicide on Monday in relation to the April 7 stabbing. They are being charged as adults.
The coroner’s office is continuing to investigate the incident in conjunction with the Casper Police Department.
A GoFundMe for the Maher family has also been established. 041024
Bureaucratic momentum prevailed last week as the State Land and Investment Board discussed a contentious gravel pit proposal on state-owned land north of Casper Mountain.
Despite public opposition, including a petition with 5,000 signatures, the board unanimously granted Prism Logistics a lease for 3,200 acres at $1 per acre.
Residents packed the hearing room and overflowed into simulcast rooms and hallways.
The lease, which was initially placed on a consent agenda without objection, raises concerns over potential environmental impacts and bypassing standard mining regulations.
Governor Mark Gordon acknowledged public concerns but emphasized the need to follow established processes.
Attempts by Secretary of State Chuck Gray to modify or terminate the lease failed to gain support, although the board agreed to explore options for canceling leases in the future.
The outcome of last week's meeting in Casper leaves the fate of the proposed gravel pit uncertain, with further steps and discussions expected in the coming months. 040924
Despite public opposition, including a petition with 5,000 signatures, the board unanimously granted Prism Logistics a lease for 3,200 acres at $1 per acre.
Residents packed the hearing room and overflowed into simulcast rooms and hallways.
The lease, which was initially placed on a consent agenda without objection, raises concerns over potential environmental impacts and bypassing standard mining regulations.
Governor Mark Gordon acknowledged public concerns but emphasized the need to follow established processes.
Attempts by Secretary of State Chuck Gray to modify or terminate the lease failed to gain support, although the board agreed to explore options for canceling leases in the future.
The outcome of last week's meeting in Casper leaves the fate of the proposed gravel pit uncertain, with further steps and discussions expected in the coming months. 040924
Repairs and renovations to the pool and waterslides at Washington Park were a topic of conversation at Monday night's Douglas City Council Meeting.
Parks & Rec Supervisor Brandon Frye gave the council an update on where they're at on the project...
Parks & Rec Supervisor Brandon Frye gave the council an update on where they're at on the project...
Some of the issues involve aging infrastructure, while some would provide for a better user experience at the pool.
Frye said that there's no plans to involve locker room or building renovations as a part of this phase of work.
The projected cost of this phase of renovation is $3.7 million dollars.
Frye said they hope to begin construction after this summer's pool season. 040924
Frye said that there's no plans to involve locker room or building renovations as a part of this phase of work.
The projected cost of this phase of renovation is $3.7 million dollars.
Frye said they hope to begin construction after this summer's pool season. 040924
Casper police officer Officer Michael Chand has returned to active duty.
Chand was placed on administrative leave after the Feb. 14 shooting of a man suspected of shooting and killing Sgt. Nevada Krinkee in Sheridan.
The Casper Police Department said Officer Chand was one of 23 Casper officers who were assisting police in Sheridan.
A press release on Tuesday said that after more than 24 hours of unsuccessful negotiations and tactical attempts to bring a peaceful resolution to the incident, the suspect was fatally shot in the evening hours of Wednesday, February 14th, 2024.
Officer Michael Chand, a four-year veteran of the Casper Police Department, was the officer who, in the performance of his duties, resolved the ongoing dangerous situation in Sheridan.
Chand has returned to active duty with the CPD in a modified assignment. 040524
Chand was placed on administrative leave after the Feb. 14 shooting of a man suspected of shooting and killing Sgt. Nevada Krinkee in Sheridan.
The Casper Police Department said Officer Chand was one of 23 Casper officers who were assisting police in Sheridan.
A press release on Tuesday said that after more than 24 hours of unsuccessful negotiations and tactical attempts to bring a peaceful resolution to the incident, the suspect was fatally shot in the evening hours of Wednesday, February 14th, 2024.
Officer Michael Chand, a four-year veteran of the Casper Police Department, was the officer who, in the performance of his duties, resolved the ongoing dangerous situation in Sheridan.
Chand has returned to active duty with the CPD in a modified assignment. 040524
Personnel changes at Douglas High School.
DHS Activities Director Doug Hughes will be retiring at the end of this year. Hughes has been the Bearcat Activities Director for the past five years. He also coached football, track, and served as the activities director in Lander from 2005-2016. His career has spanned 34 years coaching multiple sports with stops in Belle Fourche, SD, Lander, and Douglas.
Moving into the Activities Director position will be long-time Bearcat football coach, Jay Rhoades. Rhoades has been the football coach in Douglas for the past 18 years. In this time the Bearcats have compiled a record of 136 wins and 44 losses, with seven appearances in the state title game and winning three championships in 2008, 2009, and 2010. Prior to Douglas, Rhoades was the head football coach in Chadron, NE where the Cardinals went 35-13.
Stepping into the head football position will be Bearcat assistant coach, Drew Hodgs pending board approval. Hodgs was the Bearcat’s quarterback in Rhoades’ first season in 2006 where he led the Bearcats to the state title game. Hodgs went on to be a 4-year starting quarterback at Black Hills State University from 2007- 2010. He served as an assistant coach in Lead-Deadwood, SD in the 2011 and 2012 seasons before returning to Douglas to teach and coach in his hometown. Hodgs has been an integral part of coordinating the Bearcat offense during his eleven years as an assistant. 040424
DHS Activities Director Doug Hughes will be retiring at the end of this year. Hughes has been the Bearcat Activities Director for the past five years. He also coached football, track, and served as the activities director in Lander from 2005-2016. His career has spanned 34 years coaching multiple sports with stops in Belle Fourche, SD, Lander, and Douglas.
Moving into the Activities Director position will be long-time Bearcat football coach, Jay Rhoades. Rhoades has been the football coach in Douglas for the past 18 years. In this time the Bearcats have compiled a record of 136 wins and 44 losses, with seven appearances in the state title game and winning three championships in 2008, 2009, and 2010. Prior to Douglas, Rhoades was the head football coach in Chadron, NE where the Cardinals went 35-13.
Stepping into the head football position will be Bearcat assistant coach, Drew Hodgs pending board approval. Hodgs was the Bearcat’s quarterback in Rhoades’ first season in 2006 where he led the Bearcats to the state title game. Hodgs went on to be a 4-year starting quarterback at Black Hills State University from 2007- 2010. He served as an assistant coach in Lead-Deadwood, SD in the 2011 and 2012 seasons before returning to Douglas to teach and coach in his hometown. Hodgs has been an integral part of coordinating the Bearcat offense during his eleven years as an assistant. 040424
