🌱 Garden Gait Tour + Active Coal Mine Tornado + Alcova Marina Fire

Hello, neighbors. It's me, Sean Peek, your host of the Casper Patch newsletter — back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening locally.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: A heavy t-storm in the p.m.. High: 82 Low: 51.
• Friday: A p.m. t-storm in spots. High: 72 Low: 49.

Here are the top three stories in Casper today:

1. The Natrona County Master Gardeners will be hosting their annual Garden Gait Tour from Jul. 14-15, featuring a variety of gardens in different locations. The tour aims to inspire, educate, and entertain the public, helping them learn about gardening. This year's event will span two days, with tickets available for purchase online or through designated nursery partners. (Oil City News)
2. First responders from three counties including Natrona County acted swiftly when a tornado formed directly over the North Antelope Rochelle Mine, the largest open pit coal mine in the U.S. Emergency management centers were monitoring the storm, and despite initial concerns, all personnel was accounted for with eight injured miners. The incident highlighted the importance of coordination between local, state, and private officials and emphasized the need for improved detection and communication in severe weather events. (Wyoming Public Media)
3. The Natrona County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's assistance in investigating the Alcova Marina structure fire that occurred on Jul. 4. They are asking anyone with videos or photos of the fire before emergency personnel arrived to contact the non-emergency dispatch line at 307-235-9282. (Oil City News)

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Today and tomorrow in Casper:

Thursday, July 6

• Coffee & Grits At The Pig (12:00 PM)
• Cory Mcdaniel Duo At First State Bank Casper (5:00 PM)

Friday, July 7

• Wyoming Pop Culture Convention At Best Western Downtown Casper Hotel (12:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• In June, nearby Edgerton faced a swarm of thousands of Mormon crickets, but they have since moved away from populated areas. The state's plant health director indicated the presence of a cricket hotspot in certain counties this year, posing potential economic losses to agriculture. Authorities are closely monitoring and treating the outbreak, emphasizing the importance of communication and preparedness in managing such infestations. Local weed and pest districts are available for assistance and information regarding outbreaks. (Northern Ag Network)
• Join the festivities at Artist Alley located on the 400 Block of W. Yellowstone between Elm and Oak Streets downtown today (Jul. 6). The event will take place from 4:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m., allowing you to continue celebrating Independence Day with live music, art, and a vibrant atmosphere. (The City of Casper, WY via Facebook)
• Get ready for the upcoming Central Wyoming Fair and Rodeo happening in downtown Casper. Prepare for the event by bringing candy bags, lawn chairs and securing a prime spot for parade watching. Don't miss out on the excitement on Jul. 11, as you enjoy all the fun activities at the fair and rodeo. (Visit Casper via Facebook)

Alrighty, you're all caught up for today! I'll see you back in your inbox soon with your next update.

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.