We Were In The Casper Star Tribune

I've been meaning to include this for your perusal. I was interviewed by the Casper Star Tribune for their series of articles written about people who've moved to Wyoming. This reporter got my name from my old next door neighbor in Omega when he happened to call the newspaper for information he wanted. He mentioned to her that we were moving to Casper and gave her my name and number.

Casper repositions itself for this boom by CHRISTINE ROBINSON Star-Tribune staff writer

Saturday, December 13, 2008 12:44 PM MST

Casper is growing up.It has changed from a refinery town dramatically connected to the boom and bust cycle to someplace people sometimes want, and choose, to live.

A recent newcomer from Georgia said Casper has a "small town feel with big city amenities."It lacks some of the restaurants Carol Weaver said she would like to have, but other than that, everything she needs is right here.

Weaver moved with her husband from Georgia about a week ago after suffering two layoffs within one year. She had heard of better jobs in Wyoming and searched online for opportunities. It wasn't long before she found a secretarial job with the Rocky Mountain Oilfield Testing Center.

Her husband is retired and looking for work, she said, and the two are adjusting to the cold weather. For right now, she said she's ecstatic to see snow.

Lori Becker, the executive director of the Casper Area Chamber of Commerce, said this boom is different than the last one in terms of the city."I definitely think we have come a long way," she said. "We have a lot more things in the downtown area and in the east and west sides."Becker cited new restaurants, different food options, entertainment and shopping as some of the amenities Casper has gained in the past decade.

While the city is still intricately tied to the oil and gas industries, some argue other businesses may help cushion Casper if a bust comes.Becker also referred to the city of Casper's efforts to revitalize the Old Yellowstone District as another draw for the town.

The District, sandwiched between Poplar, Collins, First and David streets, has historically been used for industrial purposes. The city's vision calls for apartments, boutiques and restaurants.

Becker touted a leadership program the Chamber offers that introduces people into Casper and grooms them into being part of the community. It looks at industries, issues and social programs in Casper, Becker said.

The Chamber also sends packets of information out to people interested in moving to Casper, as well as those thinking of visiting."The city has become more attractive in a lot of ways," Becker said.The test now is to see if Casper's changes are enough to keep newcomers like Weaver here during the good and the bad times.

Contact city reporter Christine Robinson at (307) 266-0639 or christine.robinson@trib.com