Good morning, Cheyenne.

NFIB’s survey shows local small business optimism fell in September, with the index dropping to 97.9 while uncertainty climbed to 90; owners cited labor and inflation concerns and are now cautious about future investments (NFIB report details).

Josh Dorrell stepped down as CEO of the Wyoming Business Council after a special meeting on Oct.

14. The board is searching for an interim leader before selecting a permanent CEO by summer 2027.

Tickets for the Olivia Caldwell Foundation’s 10th Annual Butterfly Ball are on sale; the event is set for Jan.

30, 2027 at the Ford Wyoming Center. The adult prom themed Denim + Diamonds will feature live music, dancing, hors d'oeuvres, a prom competition, and a silent auction.

The September 2026 Wyoming Insight issue shows oil prices near $100 per barrel and a rise in oil rigs + statewide sales tax collections increased by 11.5%; the report is available on the state Economic Analysis Division website.

LCCC has received three competitive grants totaling ($68,870) to expand hands-on training in cybersecurity, health sciences, and digital fabrication.

The funding will upgrade technology infrastructure, add new UV printing capabilities, and enhance medication safety simulation tools for students.

Adelaine Schneider, a Cheyenne native majoring in environment and natural resources, was one of nine incoming University of Wyoming students named to the Tomé Scholars to Fellows Program, which provides full-ride scholarships and transformative experiences (including international field courses and community service) for future environmental leaders.

Gov. Mark Gordon acknowledged progress in addressing Wyoming's mental health challenges at a Jackson conference, noting boosts in telehealth support and destigmatizing care that may have helped lower suicide rates.

With his term ending and the Nov. 3 election coming, he urged his successor to continue these efforts.