OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials say that many of the sickest COVID-19 patients who are filling up the state’s hospitals are now unvaccinated younger adults instead of older individuals. 

The number of people hospitalized in Nebraska with the virus continues to climb this fall, and it hit 555 on Tuesday, which is the highest it has been since last winter. 

Although the number of hospitalizations remains well below last fall’s peak of 987, hospital capacity remains strained.

 That state said just 13% of the adult intensive care beds and 20% of the pediatric ICU beds were available Tuesday. 

The Nebraska Hospital Association says unvaccinated patients in the state’s hospitals outnumber vaccinated patients by a ratio of 11:1.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials say that many of the sickest COVID-19 patients who are filling up the state’s hospitals are now unvaccinated younger adults instead of older individuals. The number of people hospitalized in Nebraska with the virus continues to climb this fall, and it hit 555 on Tuesday, which is the highest it has been since last winter. Although the number of hospitalizations remains well below last fall’s peak of 987, hospital capacity remains strained. That state said just 13% of the adult intensive care beds and 20% of the pediatric ICU beds were available Tuesday. The Nebraska Hospital Association says unvaccinated patients in the state’s hospitals outnumber vaccinated patients by a ratio of 11:1.

Many of the state's COVID hospitalizations are young adults

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – Dr. Ann Buchman, Professor of Physical and Life Sciences, enjoys volunteering. She plays in a church bell choir, has been an instructor in a medical school in Nepal, and conducted science programs for children at the college and at the Chadron Public library. Recently she’s begun to volunteer with Search Angels, a non-profit organization that assists individuals seeking their biological family roots. Buchmann has completed five cases over the past two summers, helping adult adoptees find their biological relatives.

Buchmann said volunteers from every walk of life work with clients to find relatives based on DNA testing.

The most memorable case she Buchmann solved so far, was a father of two, who had just turned 30. Buchmann mainly worked with his wife.

“He came from a huge Texas family. Families that have 10 to 12 kids are really difficult [to research]. I had information from this client that his birth name was Tyler, which is no longer his name. When he was given up for adoption, his mother left him a note saying he had siblings and their names all started with a T. So I looked and I looked to find his family and when I found DNA connections that led me to a particular woman I saw that she had had four children all with first names starting with the letter T and one with the letter C,” Buchmann said.

What Buchmann found especially interesting was that his birth name, Tyler, was listed in his birth mother’s obituary. She thought it was either a mistake or maybe his mother had named a subsequent child after him. But the client’s wife contacted his half siblings and they confirmed the relationship.

“They knew he existed, they had always been looking for him, and they purposely listed his name in their mother’s obituary because they wanted to connect with him,” Buchmann said. “His mother reluctantly gave him up because the father was abusive and she was afraid the father would kill him. She always celebrated his birthday. It was a lovely story with a nice ending. I think every adopted child probably wants to know they were loved by their original family and that was the fact in this case.”

Buchmann said those considering becoming volunteers may find it helpful to have a bit of expertise in genetics, but it’s not necessary.

“It's really a logic puzzle so anybody with good logic and database skills could do this. You would just need a little training and much of that is available online. I learned along the way,” Buchmann said.

Her research depends on which DNA testing service the Search Angels clients have used.

“There are pros and cons to each service. I like 23andMe because it shows a lot of details. You can see the chromosomes and how yours match with others. GEDMatch, used by law enforcement, contains DNA results from anyone who wants to contribute their information. Many people use Ancestry.com because it links nicely to people’s family trees,” Buchmann said.

She has also utilized Facebook, BeenVerified, MyLife, white pages, and similar websites.

“They oftentimes will give you a list of relatives, or friends in the case of Facebook. They won't tell you the relationships, but you can make a bit of an educated guess. If you look them up on other sources you can often confirm who are the parents, who are the grandparents, and who are the kids, at least with some reliability. It involves a bit of detective work and guesswork,” she said.

Buchmann found Search Angels when she was looking for a way she could volunteer.

“When I resumed teaching genetics, after not teaching it for a long time, I wanted to know how people were using personal genetics to find relatives,” Buchmann said.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Dr. Ann Buchman, Professor of Physical and Life Sciences, enjoys volunteering. She plays in a church bell choir, has been an instructor in a medical school in Nepal, and conducted science programs for children at the college and at the Chadron Public library. Recently she’s begun to volunteer with Search Angels, a non-profit organization that assists individuals seeking their biological family roots. Buchmann has completed five cases over the past two summers, helping adult adoptees find their biological relatives.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638381587731.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Buchmann said volunteers from every walk of life work with clients to find relatives based on DNA testing.The most memorable case she Buchmann solved so far, was a father of two, who had just turned 30. Buchmann mainly worked with his wife.“He came from a huge Texas family. Families that have 10 to 12 kids are really difficult [to research]. I had information from this client that his birth name was Tyler, which is no longer his name. When he was given up for adoption, his mother left him a note saying he had siblings and their names all started with a T. So I looked and I looked to find his family and when I found DNA connections that led me to a particular woman I saw that she had had four children all with first names starting with the letter T and one with the letter C,” Buchmann said.What Buchmann found especially interesting was that his birth name, Tyler, was listed in his birth mother’s obituary. She thought it was either a mistake or maybe his mother had named a subsequent child after him. But the client’s wife contacted his half siblings and they confirmed the relationship.“They knew he existed, they had always been looking for him, and they purposely listed his name in their mother’s obituary because they wanted to connect with him,” Buchmann said. “His mother reluctantly gave him up because the father was abusive and she was afraid the father would kill him. She always celebrated his birthday. It was a lovely story with a nice ending. I think every adopted child probably wants to know they were loved by their original family and that was the fact in this case.”Buchmann said those considering becoming volunteers may find it helpful to have a bit of expertise in genetics, but it’s not necessary.“It's really a logic puzzle so anybody with good logic and database skills could do this. You would just need a little training and much of that is available online. I learned along the way,” Buchmann said.Her research depends on which DNA testing service the Search Angels clients have used.“There are pros and cons to each service. I like 23andMe because it shows a lot of details. You can see the chromosomes and how yours match with others. GEDMatch, used by law enforcement, contains DNA results from anyone who wants to contribute their information. Many people use Ancestry.com because it links nicely to people’s family trees,” Buchmann said.She has also utilized Facebook, BeenVerified, MyLife, white pages, and similar websites.“They oftentimes will give you a list of relatives, or friends in the case of Facebook. They won't tell you the relationships, but you can make a bit of an educated guess. If you look them up on other sources you can often confirm who are the parents, who are the grandparents, and who are the kids, at least with some reliability. It involves a bit of detective work and guesswork,” she said.Buchmann found Search Angels when she was looking for a way she could volunteer.“When I resumed teaching genetics, after not teaching it for a long time, I wanted to know how people were using personal genetics to find relatives,” Buchmann said.

Dr. Buchmann volunteers with Search Angels

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska is asking a judge to toss out statements he made to federal authorities who were investigating illegal campaign contributions. 

The nine-term Republican alleges that a prosecutor made assurances that Fortenberry wasn’t their target. 

A motion filed Tuesday in U.S. District Court in central California alleges that Assistant U.S. Attorney Mack Jenkins persuaded Fortenberry to speak with him by assuring his lawyer at the time that Fortenberry wasn't a “target” of the investigation. 

Fortenberry’s current attorney argues that, without the prosecutor’s assurances, they never would have agreed to the interview. 

Federal prosecutors plan to respond to allegations made by the congressman in court filings.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska is asking a judge to toss out statements he made to federal authorities who were investigating illegal campaign contributions. The nine-term Republican alleges that a prosecutor made assurances that Fortenberry wasn’t their target. A motion filed Tuesday in U.S. District Court in central California alleges that Assistant U.S. Attorney Mack Jenkins persuaded Fortenberry to speak with him by assuring his lawyer at the time that Fortenberry wasn't a “target” of the investigation. Fortenberry’s current attorney argues that, without the prosecutor’s assurances, they never would have agreed to the interview. Fortenberry has denied the charges. Federal prosecutors plan to respond to allegations made by the congressman in court filings.

US Rep. Fortenberry alleges prosecutor misled his lawyer

The Kris Kringle Xmas Boutique will be held at the Dawes County Fair Grounds on Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

<figure>
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 </figure>The Kris Kringle Xmas Boutique will be held at the Dawes County Fair Grounds on Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.<figure>
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Kris Kringle Xmas Boutique to be held at Dawes Co. Fair Grounds

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

It’s December, the month for giving. Our mail is full of requests for donations to several national and international organizations. Many people use these donations for tax deductions, so they need to be made by year end. We can take a $300 deduction, $600 for married filing jointly, for charitable donations even if we don’t itemize.

Please remember that there are several local charities who are serving the people in need in our area. Where can you give in Box Butte County so your funds are serving our neighbors and your dollars are being spent in our community?

Santa’s Helpers – A tree is set up at Bomgaars. Pick a tag, buy and wrap a new $15-20 toy, attach the tag, and return it to Bomgaars by December 11. Invitations have been sent out to qualifying families, and gifts are provided for every member of the family. Due to COVID, there will not be the traditional Santa’s Helpers party; instead it will be set up like it was last year with families driving through the Eagles parking lot between 6:00-7:00 pm on December 12. Help is needed to wrap gifts on December 12 beginning at 9:00 am at the Eagles. Monetary donations can be mailed to Alliance Jills, PO Box 121, Alliance NE 69301. Call Karen, 762-8545, or Julie, 762-8022 for more information.

Tree of Love – Not only do our children need gifts from Santa, so do the residents of our nursing homes. Tags suggesting gifts for people at the Hemingford Care Center and Highland Park can be found on trees at Carter’s or Valor General Store. Gifts should be returned by December 18.

Holiday Food Baskets – United Way coordinates the Thanksgiving and Christmas Food Basket Program. Donations may be made through your church, via the Santa Bucks program at Safeway, or mailed to United Way, P.O. Box 617, Alliance, NE 69301. Please note food baskets in the memo line. Donations of non-perishable, non-expired food items are welcome; contact your local church or United Way for more information. The Alliance Senior Center will be holding a pop-up food drive December 6-10 to collect items for the food baskets. Monetary donations will be used for any additional items needed, or to give gift certificates for perishables like meat and dairy products. Sign up to receive a food basket at www.uwwn.org/food2021.

United Way Coats for Kids – Donations are being accepted for new and gently used coats for area kids. Children and adult sizes are welcome. Coats can be dropped off before December 10 at the United Way office, 723 Flack Avenue, or at FNBO, 124 West 3rd. The Methodist Church also holds an annual coat drive which ended in November.

Head Start Glove Drive – Head Start is collecting gloves and mittens for children birth through age 5. Gloves are preferred for 4-5 year-olds, as they teach dexterity. Boxes are available at Korner Grill, Carter’s, and Grocery Kart. They will gladly accept socks in the same boxes through the Sock It to Poverty Sock Drive.

St John’s Tree of Warmth – St John’s Lutheran Church at 2090 Emerson Avenue hands out mittens, gloves, scarves, hats, and socks for all ages when the people pick up their Holiday Food Baskets. Call 762-1883 to inquire about donating items for the Tree of Warmth.

Salvation Army – Drop your donations in the red kettles at Raben’s Market, Bomgaars, Grocery Kart, Carter’s, J&amp;J Pitstop, or Git ‘n Split. Red kettle donations help people through grocery, prescription, utility, motel, and medical gas voucher assistance, as well as emergency services and stranded motorist assistance. These funds serve residents of Box Butte County and are distributed by Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) and the Alliance Police Department. You can also drop off donations at First National Bank (FNBO) or give online at registertoring.com.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors– The City of Alliance has a utility assistance program for their customers who have delinquent bills subject to disconnect. City utility customers may donate to Neighbors Helping Neighbors by adding a one-time and/or recurring donation to their monthly utility bill. Those who elect to participate should complete the form on the City’s website, www.cityofalliance.net/419/Neighbors-Helping-Neighbors, and return it to the City. Funds are distributed by NCAP.

Heat Share - Black Hills Energy works with NCAP and the Salvation Army to provide emergency heating assistance to those unable to pay their company’s natural gas bill through a program called HeatShare. HeatShare is funded by the charitable giving arm of Black Hills Energy, its employees, and their customers.

Backpack Program – Half of the children in Box Butte County qualify for free/reduced lunch. They also qualify for the Backpack Program, allowing them to take home food for the weekend. Backpacks are distributed to the Alliance Public Schools, Hemingford Public Schools, and Head Start. To donate, send your check, payable to Backpack Program, to St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, PO Box 430, Alliance NE 69301. The Head Start Backpack Program is handled by St. John’s Lutheran Church, PO Box 70, Alliance NE 69301; checks payable to St. John’s with Head Start Backpacks in the memo line.

Community Table – People can eat free of charge at the Masonic Center, 123 W 3rd (use the Laramie Street door) Monday through Thursday, with a sack lunch for Friday. Donations for this program may be sent to Great Western Bank, 423 W 3rd, Alliance, NE 69301. Be sure to put Community Table on the memo line.

Northwest Community Action Partnership Extra Helpings Food Pantry or Hemingford Ministerial Association Food Pantry welcome donations. Monetary donations are used to purchase food at a discount from the Food Bank of the Heartland.

Many other organizations in Box Butte County would love to receive your donations. These include 501c3 nonprofits, foundations, and area churches. It is the season to be sharing, to be giving.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceIt’s December, the month for giving. Our mail is full of requests for donations to several national and international organizations. Many people use these donations for tax deductions, so they need to be made by year end. We can take a $300 deduction, $600 for married filing jointly, for charitable donations even if we don’t itemize.Please remember that there are several local charities who are serving the people in need in our area. Where can you give in Box Butte County so your funds are serving our neighbors and your dollars are being spent in our community?Santa’s Helpers – A tree is set up at Bomgaars. Pick a tag, buy and wrap a new $15-20 toy, attach the tag, and return it to Bomgaars by December 11. Invitations have been sent out to qualifying families, and gifts are provided for every member of the family. Due to COVID, there will not be the traditional Santa’s Helpers party; instead it will be set up like it was last year with families driving through the Eagles parking lot between 6:00-7:00 pm on December 12. Help is needed to wrap gifts on December 12 beginning at 9:00 am at the Eagles. Monetary donations can be mailed to Alliance Jills, PO Box 121, Alliance NE 69301. Call Karen, 762-8545, or Julie, 762-8022 for more information.Tree of Love – Not only do our children need gifts from Santa, so do the residents of our nursing homes. Tags suggesting gifts for people at the Hemingford Care Center and Highland Park can be found on trees at Carter’s or Valor General Store. Gifts should be returned by December 18.Holiday Food Baskets – United Way coordinates the Thanksgiving and Christmas Food Basket Program. Donations may be made through your church, via the Santa Bucks program at Safeway, or mailed to United Way, P.O. Box 617, Alliance, NE 69301. Please note food baskets in the memo line. Donations of non-perishable, non-expired food items are welcome; contact your local church or United Way for more information. The Alliance Senior Center will be holding a pop-up food drive December 6-10 to collect items for the food baskets. Monetary donations will be used for any additional items needed, or to give gift certificates for perishables like meat and dairy products. Sign up to receive a food basket at www.uwwn.org/food2021.United Way Coats for Kids – Donations are being accepted for new and gently used coats for area kids. Children and adult sizes are welcome. Coats can be dropped off before December 10 at the United Way office, 723 Flack Avenue, or at FNBO, 124 West 3rd. The Methodist Church also holds an annual coat drive which ended in November.Head Start Glove Drive – Head Start is collecting gloves and mittens for children birth through age 5. Gloves are preferred for 4-5 year-olds, as they teach dexterity. Boxes are available at Korner Grill, Carter’s, and Grocery Kart. They will gladly accept socks in the same boxes through the Sock It to Poverty Sock Drive.St John’s Tree of Warmth – St John’s Lutheran Church at 2090 Emerson Avenue hands out mittens, gloves, scarves, hats, and socks for all ages when the people pick up their Holiday Food Baskets. Call 762-1883 to inquire about donating items for the Tree of Warmth.Salvation Army – Drop your donations in the red kettles at Raben’s Market, Bomgaars, Grocery Kart, Carter’s, J&amp;J Pitstop, or Git ‘n Split. Red kettle donations help people through grocery, prescription, utility, motel, and medical gas voucher assistance, as well as emergency services and stranded motorist assistance. These funds serve residents of Box Butte County and are distributed by Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) and the Alliance Police Department. You can also drop off donations at First National Bank (FNBO) or give online at registertoring.com.Neighbors Helping Neighbors– The City of Alliance has a utility assistance program for their customers who have delinquent bills subject to disconnect. City utility customers may donate to Neighbors Helping Neighbors by adding a one-time and/or recurring donation to their monthly utility bill. Those who elect to participate should complete the form on the City’s website, www.cityofalliance.net/419/Neighbors-Helping-Neighbors, and return it to the City. Funds are distributed by NCAP.Heat Share - Black Hills Energy works with NCAP and the Salvation Army to provide emergency heating assistance to those unable to pay their company’s natural gas bill through a program called HeatShare. HeatShare is funded by the charitable giving arm of Black Hills Energy, its employees, and their customers.Backpack Program – Half of the children in Box Butte County qualify for free/reduced lunch. They also qualify for the Backpack Program, allowing them to take home food for the weekend. Backpacks are distributed to the Alliance Public Schools, Hemingford Public Schools, and Head Start. To donate, send your check, payable to Backpack Program, to St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, PO Box 430, Alliance NE 69301. The Head Start Backpack Program is handled by St. John’s Lutheran Church, PO Box 70, Alliance NE 69301; checks payable to St. John’s with Head Start Backpacks in the memo line.Community Table – People can eat free of charge at the Masonic Center, 123 W 3rd (use the Laramie Street door) Monday through Thursday, with a sack lunch for Friday. Donations for this program may be sent to Great Western Bank, 423 W 3rd, Alliance, NE 69301. Be sure to put Community Table on the memo line.Northwest Community Action Partnership Extra Helpings Food Pantry or Hemingford Ministerial Association Food Pantry welcome donations. Monetary donations are used to purchase food at a discount from the Food Bank of the Heartland.Many other organizations in Box Butte County would love to receive your donations. These include 501c3 nonprofits, foundations, and area churches. It is the season to be sharing, to be giving.

Poverty In Our Area: Local charitable donations

CHADRON – During its November meeting in Wayne, Nebraska, the Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees approved several new programs, options, and certificates for Chadron State College. They are MBA certificates in Healthcare Management and Digital Marketing, a Media Production minor and option, a Natural Science concentration, a Political Science minor, and a Pre-Art Therapy Option.

According to Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jim Powell, the two graduate certificates in digital marketing and healthcare management will prepare students for growing areas of business. Each certificate is composed of 12 hours and is identical to the courses required for the MBA focus area of the same name. Students will be required to have a bachelor’s degree to enroll in the graduate certificates. Students can earn the certificates before or after a master’s degree, or as stand-alone certificates.

The Media Production option for Communication majors will allow students to specialize in several areas of media production, such as video, audio, and broadcast. Students will be required to obtain a minimum of 120 credit hours to graduate and specifically 57 hours in Communication (core requirements of 30 credits and 27 credit hours in the Media Production option). The 21-credit hour minor in Media Production will allow students to combine knowledge and skills in this area with other complementary majors, such as Business.

The Natural Science concentration will allow fully online students to complete the Field Endorsement in Science, a degree pathway Powell said has been repeatedly requested by both area school districts and prospective students. The concentration will have the same core requirements as the Bachelor of Science in Education Field Endorsement in Science (grades 7-12) with concentrations in Biology, Chemistry, or Earth and Space Science. Three new courses will be added to provide an overview of upper-level chemistry.

According to Board materials, students graduating with the Political Science minor will be able to articulate essential knowledge and concepts in political science; systematically interpret quantitative and qualitative evidence; evaluate arguments about governance and political processes; creatively develop arguments at the intersection of political, social, and economic issues; actively participate in and meaningfully affect political processes in local communities and beyond; and apply theoretical and empirical knowledge to solve problems at the local, state, national, and international levels.

The Pre-Art Therapy option will provide a career focused degree in the medical field for students interested in Art. The degree will prepare students for graduate school within the field of Art Therapy. The proposed plan of study will be 120 credit hours from the Art core, Psychological Sciences, and Essential Studies. Students will be required to maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA and pass all required courses with a grade of C or higher.

Other items discussed and approved during the November meeting can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nscs.edu/board-materials/2021/2021-11-11-Nov-Mtg" target="_blank">online</a>.&nbsp;

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638317319029.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – During its November meeting in Wayne, Nebraska, the Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees approved several new programs, options, and certificates for Chadron State College. They are MBA certificates in Healthcare Management and Digital Marketing, a Media Production minor and option, a Natural Science concentration, a Political Science minor, and a Pre-Art Therapy Option.According to Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jim Powell, the two graduate certificates in digital marketing and healthcare management will prepare students for growing areas of business. Each certificate is composed of 12 hours and is identical to the courses required for the MBA focus area of the same name. Students will be required to have a bachelor’s degree to enroll in the graduate certificates. Students can earn the certificates before or after a master’s degree, or as stand-alone certificates.The Media Production option for Communication majors will allow students to specialize in several areas of media production, such as video, audio, and broadcast. Students will be required to obtain a minimum of 120 credit hours to graduate and specifically 57 hours in Communication (core requirements of 30 credits and 27 credit hours in the Media Production option). The 21-credit hour minor in Media Production will allow students to combine knowledge and skills in this area with other complementary majors, such as Business.The Natural Science concentration will allow fully online students to complete the Field Endorsement in Science, a degree pathway Powell said has been repeatedly requested by both area school districts and prospective students. The concentration will have the same core requirements as the Bachelor of Science in Education Field Endorsement in Science (grades 7-12) with concentrations in Biology, Chemistry, or Earth and Space Science. Three new courses will be added to provide an overview of upper-level chemistry.According to Board materials, students graduating with the Political Science minor will be able to articulate essential knowledge and concepts in political science; systematically interpret quantitative and qualitative evidence; evaluate arguments about governance and political processes; creatively develop arguments at the intersection of political, social, and economic issues; actively participate in and meaningfully affect political processes in local communities and beyond; and apply theoretical and empirical knowledge to solve problems at the local, state, national, and international levels.The Pre-Art Therapy option will provide a career focused degree in the medical field for students interested in Art. The degree will prepare students for graduate school within the field of Art Therapy. The proposed plan of study will be 120 credit hours from the Art core, Psychological Sciences, and Essential Studies. Students will be required to maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA and pass all required courses with a grade of C or higher.Other items discussed and approved during the November meeting can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nscs.edu/board-materials/2021/2021-11-11-Nov-Mtg" target="_blank">online</a>.&nbsp;

New CSC programs approved by Board of Trustees

SCOTTSBLUFF -&nbsp;The Western Nebraska Community College Foundation has been awarded $369,000 from the Nonprofit Security Grant Program for States to fund increased safety measures on WNCC's three campuses in Alliance, Scottsbluff, and Sidney.&nbsp;

The purpose of the grant, funded by the Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) and administered through the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA),&nbsp;is to make operations safer through the purchase of physical security enhancements and training of personnel.&nbsp;

“The grant will allow WNCC the opportunity to enhance safety across all WNCC campuses," Nancy Hall, WNCC administrative management director said. "With limited resources, and multiple competing critical needs, this grant will provide funding for safety features, equipment, training, and exercises that may otherwise be delayed."

The funding will be used on all three campuses to enhance electronic door access control systems, install vehicle barriers at building entrances, increase perimeter security of WNCC facilities, and provide National Incident Management System (NIMS) training and exercises for WNCC leadership.

The WNCC Foundation qualified for the grant program as a 501(c)3 nonprofit entity supporting the mission and work of Western Nebraska Community College and the communities it serves. To learn more or support the work of the WNCC Foundation, contact Executive Director Jennifer Reisig at 308-630-6550 or foundation@wncc.edu.

SCOTTSBLUFF -&nbsp;The Western Nebraska Community College Foundation has been awarded $369,000 from the Nonprofit Security Grant Program for States to fund increased safety measures on WNCC's three campuses in Alliance, Scottsbluff, and Sidney.&nbsp;The purpose of the grant, funded by the Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) and administered through the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA),&nbsp;is to make operations safer through the purchase of physical security enhancements and training of personnel.&nbsp;“The grant will allow WNCC the opportunity to enhance safety across all WNCC campuses," Nancy Hall, WNCC administrative management director said. "With limited resources, and multiple competing critical needs, this grant will provide funding for safety features, equipment, training, and exercises that may otherwise be delayed."The funding will be used on all three campuses to enhance electronic door access control systems, install vehicle barriers at building entrances, increase perimeter security of WNCC facilities, and provide National Incident Management System (NIMS) training and exercises for WNCC leadership.The WNCC Foundation qualified for the grant program as a 501(c)3 nonprofit entity supporting the mission and work of Western Nebraska Community College and the communities it serves. To learn more or support the work of the WNCC Foundation, contact Executive Director Jennifer Reisig at 308-630-6550 or foundation@wncc.edu.

WNCC Foundation awarded $369K grant to increase safety across 3 campuses

Click <a href="https://panhandlepost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a> to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Panhandle Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.panhandlepost.com/recent-obituaries/kcowradio@gmail.com">kcowradio@gmail.com</a>

Click <a href="https://panhandlepost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a> to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp;&nbsp; Panhandle Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.panhandlepost.com/recent-obituaries/kcowradio@gmail.com">kcowradio@gmail.com</a><figure>
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Recent obituaries

Chadron Public Schools and Chadron State College were placed in a lock out this afternoon.&nbsp;

The lock out was initiated as the Chadron Police Department searched for two people wanted in connection with a Pine Ridge Reservation shooting on Nov. 28.&nbsp;

At approximately 2 p.m. the Chadron Police Department was notified from Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety (OST) of a high-speed pursuit.&nbsp;

The pursuit began on the Pine Ridge Reservation and came into Chadron.

"The report from OST was the suspect may have a firearm with him in the vehicle," Chadron Police Chief Rick Hickstein said. "The pursuit was monitored by our staff and they came to Chadron via Highway 20."

Hickstein said the CPD spotted the suspects vehicle near Wahlstrom Ford.

A Native American man and woman then fled on foot in the 200 block of Cedar Street.&nbsp;

At 3:26 p.m. Chadron Public Schools said, "All protocols are lifted. The CPD has notified us that the suspect is in custody. Kids may leave buildings without a parent or guardian.&nbsp;Thank you all again for your patience in supporting community safety."

"Within 45 minutes the suspect was caught and apprehended on local charges," Hickstein said. "A female who was with the suspect was also placed into custody for possession of methamphetamine."

Panhandle Post will have more information as it becomes available.&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostChadron Public Schools and Chadron State College were placed in a lock out this afternoon.&nbsp;The lock out was initiated as the Chadron Police Department searched for two people wanted in connection with a Pine Ridge Reservation shooting on Nov. 28.&nbsp;At approximately 2 p.m. the Chadron Police Department was notified from Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety (OST) of a high-speed pursuit.&nbsp;The pursuit began on the Pine Ridge Reservation and came into Chadron."The report from OST was the suspect may have a firearm with him in the vehicle," Chadron Police Chief Rick Hickstein said. "The pursuit was monitored by our staff and they came to Chadron via Highway 20."Hickstein said the CPD spotted the suspects vehicle near Wahlstrom Ford.A Native American man and woman then fled on foot in the 200 block of Cedar Street.&nbsp;At 3:26 p.m. Chadron Public Schools said, "All protocols are lifted. The CPD has notified us that the suspect is in custody. Kids may leave buildings without a parent or guardian.&nbsp;Thank you all again for your patience in supporting community safety.""Within 45 minutes the suspect was caught and apprehended on local charges," Hickstein said. "A female who was with the suspect was also placed into custody for possession of methamphetamine."Panhandle Post will have more information as it becomes available.&nbsp;

UPDATE: CPS, CSC placed in lock out Tuesday afternoon

By&nbsp;Celeste Lee and&nbsp;Cheryl Welch,&nbsp;Red Ribbon Skirt Society

Are you aware of the epidemic of violence in our nation against Indigenous women? It is so rampant, it has its own title: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women or MMIW.

An extensive study by Urban Indian Health Institute in 2016 lists Nebraska as having the 7th highest number of MMIW cases. The majority of cases are missing or murdered from urban areas, not reservations. Indigenous women and girls are murdered at a rate 10 times higher than women of other ethniciities. Four out of five Indigenous women have experienced violence, while more than half have experienced sexual violence

Lily Mendoza will be speaking at the CSC Mari Sandoz Center on Wednesday, December 8 at 7 p.m. about this epidemic.

 Mendoza is the founder of the Red Ribbon Skirt Society (RRSS) in Rapid City and will be accompanied by Darla Black the spiritual leader of the organization. Lily works with MMIW families, law enforcement and community members to support families as they struggle with the missing or murder of their loved ones. She is also the owner of the Bird Cage Bookstore and Goose Creek Mercantile on 7th street in Rapid City, where she hosts the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women &amp; Children and Two-Spirited Center for Healing, Prayer and Remembrance.

Red dresses, with names of MMIW, are hung in the Center for Healing. One of the names pinned on a red dress is that of Richynda Roubideaux from Mission, SD. In 1997, 11 year-old Richynda was given permission to go to a birthday party of a friend and spend the night. When she did not return the next morning, her mother Elizabeth went searching for her daughter. Eventually, she contacted the tribal chairman, who organized a search party. Richynda was finally found, partially clothed, raped and murdered. To this day, no one has been arrested for this crime.

On Dec. 8, Lily Mendoza will share the history of the MMIW and current statistics, talk about the Red Dress movement, explain the meaning behind the symbolic “red hand”, and how human trafficking relates to MMIW. Most importantly, she will share how we can

take action locally to address this heartbreaking problem. This presentation is sponsored by the CSC Native American Club and the Social Justice Club of CHS.

For more information contact: Celeste Lee, 308.430.2192 or Cheryl Welch, loswelchitos@gmail.com

By&nbsp;Celeste Lee and&nbsp;Cheryl Welch,&nbsp;Red Ribbon Skirt SocietyAre you aware of the epidemic of violence in our nation against Indigenous women? It is so rampant, it has its own title: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women or MMIW.An extensive study by Urban Indian Health Institute in 2016 lists Nebraska as having the 7th highest number of MMIW cases. The majority of cases are missing or murdered from urban areas, not reservations. Indigenous women and girls are murdered at a rate 10 times higher than women of other ethniciities. Four out of five Indigenous women have experienced violence, while more than half have experienced sexual violenceLily Mendoza will be speaking at the CSC Mari Sandoz Center on Wednesday, December 8 at 7 p.m. about this epidemic. Mendoza is the founder of the Red Ribbon Skirt Society (RRSS) in Rapid City and will be accompanied by Darla Black the spiritual leader of the organization. Lily works with MMIW families, law enforcement and community members to support families as they struggle with the missing or murder of their loved ones. She is also the owner of the Bird Cage Bookstore and Goose Creek Mercantile on 7th street in Rapid City, where she hosts the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women &amp; Children and Two-Spirited Center for Healing, Prayer and Remembrance.Red dresses, with names of MMIW, are hung in the Center for Healing. One of the names pinned on a red dress is that of Richynda Roubideaux from Mission, SD. In 1997, 11 year-old Richynda was given permission to go to a birthday party of a friend and spend the night. When she did not return the next morning, her mother Elizabeth went searching for her daughter. Eventually, she contacted the tribal chairman, who organized a search party. Richynda was finally found, partially clothed, raped and murdered. To this day, no one has been arrested for this crime.On Dec. 8, Lily Mendoza will share the history of the MMIW and current statistics, talk about the Red Dress movement, explain the meaning behind the symbolic “red hand”, and how human trafficking relates to MMIW. Most importantly, she will share how we cantake action locally to address this heartbreaking problem. This presentation is sponsored by the CSC Native American Club and the Social Justice Club of CHS.For more information contact: Celeste Lee, 308.430.2192 or Cheryl Welch, loswelchitos@gmail.com

RRSS to present on 'Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women'


Creighton
University medical experts are counseling patience but also vigilance
in the face of reports of a new COVID variant emerging from South
Africa.


Dubbed
“omicron” and identified as a “variant of concern” by the
World Health Organization, the variant has caused the United States
and other nations to suspend travel from multiple African nations,
even as medical authorities there insist that omicron, while
unusually transmissible, engenders only mild symptoms.


“I
would like to stress that very little is known at this time beyond
the fact that omicron is a new variant with a significant number of
genetic changes compared to delta, which is the predominant variant
worldwide,” says Michael Belshan, PhD, professor of medical
microbiology and immunology at the Creighton University School of
Medicine. “I recommend patience. Everything is speculative at this
time.”


Belshan
leads Creighton’s work monitoring COVID-19 variants circulating in
Nebraska. Conducted under an ongoing contract with the Nebraska
Department of Health and Human Services, the project enables the
state to conduct extensive surveillance of COVID to detect new
variants within days of their appearance.


Maureen
Tierney, MD, MSc., FIDSA, assistant dean of public health at the
Creighton School of Medicine and chair of the Department of Clinical
Research, urged COVID vigilance while medical authorities at
Creighton and around the world gather data on the omicron variant.


“Although
we agree that there is much not known, what we are recommending is
vaccination of the unvaccinated, booster shots, and
non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as masking and social
distancing,” Tierney said. “If this turns out to be a more
transmissible and/or a more virulent strain, then we are better
prepared. These steps will also help reduce the rising number of
cases of delta.”


Tierney
and Renuga Vivekanandan, MD, associate professor of medicine at
Creighton and chief of infectious diseases at CHI Health Creighton
University Medical Center-Bergan Mercy, said a new COVID strain is
not the only viral challenge facing Americans this winter. The other
key component is the flu.


“The
U.S. Centers for Disease Control put out a Health Alert Network last
week describing clusters of cases of influenza, especially among
younger adults and on college campuses,” Tierney said. “Many
states, including Nebraska, have detected flu activity, predominantly
H3N2 which is usually more virulent and is associated with an
increased rate of concomitant bacterial pneumonia.” 



The
CDC health alert noted that the flu strain was included in this
year’s vaccine but that it is already beginning to mutate.


Tierney
and Vivekanandan call for a renewed commitment to battling
respiratory viral infections. They offer the following
recommendations:

News Release Creighton University
Creighton
University medical experts are counseling patience but also vigilance
in the face of reports of a new COVID variant emerging from South
Africa.
Dubbed
“omicron” and identified as a “variant of concern” by the
World Health Organization, the variant has caused the United States
and other nations to suspend travel from multiple African nations,
even as medical authorities there insist that omicron, while
unusually transmissible, engenders only mild symptoms.
“I
would like to stress that very little is known at this time beyond
the fact that omicron is a new variant with a significant number of
genetic changes compared to delta, which is the predominant variant
worldwide,” says Michael Belshan, PhD, professor of medical
microbiology and immunology at the Creighton University School of
Medicine. “I recommend patience. Everything is speculative at this
time.”
Belshan
leads Creighton’s work monitoring COVID-19 variants circulating in
Nebraska. Conducted under an ongoing contract with the Nebraska
Department of Health and Human Services, the project enables the
state to conduct extensive surveillance of COVID to detect new
variants within days of their appearance.
Maureen
Tierney, MD, MSc., FIDSA, assistant dean of public health at the
Creighton School of Medicine and chair of the Department of Clinical
Research, urged COVID vigilance while medical authorities at
Creighton and around the world gather data on the omicron variant.
“Although
we agree that there is much not known, what we are recommending is
vaccination of the unvaccinated, booster shots, and
non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as masking and social
distancing,” Tierney said. “If this turns out to be a more
transmissible and/or a more virulent strain, then we are better
prepared. These steps will also help reduce the rising number of
cases of delta.”
Tierney
and Renuga Vivekanandan, MD, associate professor of medicine at
Creighton and chief of infectious diseases at CHI Health Creighton
University Medical Center-Bergan Mercy, said a new COVID strain is
not the only viral challenge facing Americans this winter. The other
key component is the flu.
“The
U.S. Centers for Disease Control put out a Health Alert Network last
week describing clusters of cases of influenza, especially among
younger adults and on college campuses,” Tierney said. “Many
states, including Nebraska, have detected flu activity, predominantly
H3N2 which is usually more virulent and is associated with an
increased rate of concomitant bacterial pneumonia.” 

The
CDC health alert noted that the flu strain was included in this
year’s vaccine but that it is already beginning to mutate.
Tierney
and Vivekanandan call for a renewed commitment to battling
respiratory viral infections. They offer the following
recommendations:<ul>
 <li>
	Encourage
	friends, relatives and colleagues to get vaccinated against
	COVID-19.
	</li><li>
	Encourage
	everyone over 6 months old to get a flu shot.
	</li><li>
	Emphasize
	the importance of COVID-19 booster shots for all those six months
	past their second mRNA (Pfizer and Moderna) shot and two months
	after a Johnson &amp; Johnson shot.
	</li><li>
	Mask
	when indoors and in crowded outdoor spaces in areas of high or
	sustained community transmission (almost all of Nebraska, including
	Douglas County).
	</li><li>
	Remind
	everyone that masking and social distancing also help reduce flu
	transmission.
	</li><li>
	If
	sick with respiratory symptoms, get tested for flu and COVID and
	stay home. 
	
	</li><li>
	Ask
	your doctor if you should be treated for the flu and/or bacterial
	pneumonia while awaiting test results. 
	
	</li><li>
	If
	you test positive for COVID-19, ask your health care provider if you
	are someone who should receive monoclonal antibodies.
</li>
 </ul>

Creighton experts urge patience, vigilance in face of 'omicron' variant

Chancellor Ronnie Green believes the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is racist.&nbsp; Under his leadership, UNL recently released a plan to address “institutional racism” as part of its “Journey for Anti-Racism and Racial Equity.”&nbsp; From racially motivated hiring practices to divisive trainings, the plan would inject Critical Race Theory (CRT) into every corner of campus. &nbsp;

At the foundation of UNL’s plan are the writings of Ibram Kendi, who has openly called for discrimination on the basis of skin color.&nbsp; Kendi has written that “The only remedy to racist discrimination is antiracist discrimination. &nbsp;The only remedy to past discrimination is present discrimination.”&nbsp;

This plan is the product of ideologues—not thoughtful Nebraska academics.&nbsp; Needless to say, I could not be more disappointed in the Chancellor’s plan, and I completely disagree with the notion that UNL is a racist institution.&nbsp;&nbsp;UNL’s focus should be on educational excellence, not ideological indoctrination.&nbsp; At its core, the plan is legally questionable, intellectually flawed, and politically charged.

UNL’s approach not only pushes CRT, but also runs counter to the Nebraska State Constitution. &nbsp;Article I-30 expressly forbids racial discrimination in public education stating that “The state shall not discriminate against, or grant preferential treatment to, any individual or group on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in the operation of...public education.”

Nebraska strives to be a place where people are treated fairly, and we recognize we always need to be open to doing better. &nbsp;We must address specific acts of racism whenever we encounter them, and we should look to continuously improve the quality of education available to Nebraskans of all backgrounds.&nbsp; However, the accusation that UNL is institutionally racist is false and outrageous.&nbsp; It’s the product of the sloganeering of political activists—not thoughtful academics.

UNL’s plan is also based on the flawed assumption that differences in outcomes among racial groups are the result of systemic racism and how people are treated based on skin color.&nbsp; The data, however, doesn’t support this conclusion.&nbsp; The University’s plan makes the claim that racism is “often structural and embedded into systems,” however, it does not spell out specific examples of what this looks like at UNL besides vaguely stating there are “different outcomes for different groups.”&nbsp; In reality, degree completion rates of White and Asian students at UNL are virtually identical.&nbsp; In fact, Asian students in Nebraska (on average) display the highest measure of college degree readiness of any racial group.&nbsp;

Additionally, there are factors other than “institutional racism” that help explain educational outcomes.&nbsp; For example, nationally, students of groups with high family income levels and low nonmarital birth rates tend to do better on measures of academic performance.&nbsp; In Nebraska, data shows students from higher income families are more likely to go to college than their peers from low-income families.&nbsp; Additionally, males from low-income White households in Nebraska are less likely to attend college than males from low-income Asian, Black, or Hispanic households.&nbsp; There are a variety of factors that influence educational outcomes, and it’s important to look closely at the data to understand the full story.

UNL is also presenting its plan as non-political, however, the plan fails its own test of diversity by presenting only one view of race relations in America.&nbsp; The chancellor’s resource list features the writings of Critical Race Theorists like Ibram Kendi and the New York Times’ 1619 Project, while excluding the scholarly work of conservative Black intellectuals like Glenn Loury, Shelby Steele, and Robert Woodson who strongly disagree with CRT. &nbsp;The University’s plan gives the impression that CRT has universal scholarly support, when it clearly does not.&nbsp; In fact, some respected academics, including John McWhorter, a linguist at Columbia University, have gone so far as to call CRT a new form of racism.&nbsp;

McWhorter has been a vocal critic of Kendi, noting the circular logic Kendi uses to argue for “anti-racism.”&nbsp; Kendi writes that, “Racism is a marriage of racist policies and racist ideas that produces and normalizes racial inequities."&nbsp; McWhorter points out the redundant, non-academic nature of this and other claims made by Kendi.&nbsp; You may not be surprised to learn that McWhorter’s work isn’t included on UNL’s recommended resources list.

The University’s misguided focus on achieving equity of outcomes, rather than equality of opportunities, is pushing a Marxist and communist ideology.&nbsp; It fails to honor our American values of respecting individual rights and focusing on excellence.&nbsp; And it betrays the legacy of our country’s great civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who dedicated his life to the dream of Americans judging one another according to the content of their character and not skin color.

The University isn’t going to stop pushing CRT without action from Nebraskans.&nbsp; Nebraskans need to let the University know that they reject their plan to apply CRT on UNL’s campus.&nbsp; The University of Nebraska Board of Regents is meeting at 9:00 AM this Friday, December 3rd, at Varner Hall in Lincoln.&nbsp; Three regents—Paul Kenney, Jim Pillen, and Rob Schaefer, have consistently opposed CRT.&nbsp; More need to step up so we can stop this radical ideology.&nbsp; You can attend the meeting or contact the Board of Regents by visiting:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnebraska.edu%2Fregents%2Fboard-members&amp;data=04%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C801198b110204d669fd408d9b41dedf4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637738862903518576%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=boTyBcHpLQMK90PpzGndEsCwsryvYkys9izp%2FHW2fck%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nebraska.edu/regents/board-members</a>.

If you’ve seen CRT being imposed at a college or K-12 school, please let me know by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Pete.Ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">Pete.Ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or calling 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Our kids deserve an education that’s free from narrow-minded ideology.&nbsp; Together, let’s work to keep the educational focus on excellence, not identity politics, in Nebraska.

By Gov. Pete RickettsChancellor Ronnie Green believes the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is racist.&nbsp; Under his leadership, UNL recently released a plan to address “institutional racism” as part of its “Journey for Anti-Racism and Racial Equity.”&nbsp; From racially motivated hiring practices to divisive trainings, the plan would inject Critical Race Theory (CRT) into every corner of campus. &nbsp;At the foundation of UNL’s plan are the writings of Ibram Kendi, who has openly called for discrimination on the basis of skin color.&nbsp; Kendi has written that “The only remedy to racist discrimination is antiracist discrimination. &nbsp;The only remedy to past discrimination is present discrimination.”&nbsp;This plan is the product of ideologues—not thoughtful Nebraska academics.&nbsp; Needless to say, I could not be more disappointed in the Chancellor’s plan, and I completely disagree with the notion that UNL is a racist institution.&nbsp;&nbsp;UNL’s focus should be on educational excellence, not ideological indoctrination.&nbsp; At its core, the plan is legally questionable, intellectually flawed, and politically charged.UNL’s approach not only pushes CRT, but also runs counter to the Nebraska State Constitution. &nbsp;Article I-30 expressly forbids racial discrimination in public education stating that “The state shall not discriminate against, or grant preferential treatment to, any individual or group on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in the operation of...public education.”Nebraska strives to be a place where people are treated fairly, and we recognize we always need to be open to doing better. &nbsp;We must address specific acts of racism whenever we encounter them, and we should look to continuously improve the quality of education available to Nebraskans of all backgrounds.&nbsp; However, the accusation that UNL is institutionally racist is false and outrageous.&nbsp; It’s the product of the sloganeering of political activists—not thoughtful academics.UNL’s plan is also based on the flawed assumption that differences in outcomes among racial groups are the result of systemic racism and how people are treated based on skin color.&nbsp; The data, however, doesn’t support this conclusion.&nbsp; The University’s plan makes the claim that racism is “often structural and embedded into systems,” however, it does not spell out specific examples of what this looks like at UNL besides vaguely stating there are “different outcomes for different groups.”&nbsp; In reality, degree completion rates of White and Asian students at UNL are virtually identical.&nbsp; In fact, Asian students in Nebraska (on average) display the highest measure of college degree readiness of any racial group.&nbsp;Additionally, there are factors other than “institutional racism” that help explain educational outcomes.&nbsp; For example, nationally, students of groups with high family income levels and low nonmarital birth rates tend to do better on measures of academic performance.&nbsp; In Nebraska, data shows students from higher income families are more likely to go to college than their peers from low-income families.&nbsp; Additionally, males from low-income White households in Nebraska are less likely to attend college than males from low-income Asian, Black, or Hispanic households.&nbsp; There are a variety of factors that influence educational outcomes, and it’s important to look closely at the data to understand the full story.UNL is also presenting its plan as non-political, however, the plan fails its own test of diversity by presenting only one view of race relations in America.&nbsp; The chancellor’s resource list features the writings of Critical Race Theorists like Ibram Kendi and the New York Times’ 1619 Project, while excluding the scholarly work of conservative Black intellectuals like Glenn Loury, Shelby Steele, and Robert Woodson who strongly disagree with CRT. &nbsp;The University’s plan gives the impression that CRT has universal scholarly support, when it clearly does not.&nbsp; In fact, some respected academics, including John McWhorter, a linguist at Columbia University, have gone so far as to call CRT a new form of racism.&nbsp;McWhorter has been a vocal critic of Kendi, noting the circular logic Kendi uses to argue for “anti-racism.”&nbsp; Kendi writes that, “Racism is a marriage of racist policies and racist ideas that produces and normalizes racial inequities."&nbsp; McWhorter points out the redundant, non-academic nature of this and other claims made by Kendi.&nbsp; You may not be surprised to learn that McWhorter’s work isn’t included on UNL’s recommended resources list.The University’s misguided focus on achieving equity of outcomes, rather than equality of opportunities, is pushing a Marxist and communist ideology.&nbsp; It fails to honor our American values of respecting individual rights and focusing on excellence.&nbsp; And it betrays the legacy of our country’s great civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who dedicated his life to the dream of Americans judging one another according to the content of their character and not skin color.The University isn’t going to stop pushing CRT without action from Nebraskans.&nbsp; Nebraskans need to let the University know that they reject their plan to apply CRT on UNL’s campus.&nbsp; The University of Nebraska Board of Regents is meeting at 9:00 AM this Friday, December 3rd, at Varner Hall in Lincoln.&nbsp; Three regents—Paul Kenney, Jim Pillen, and Rob Schaefer, have consistently opposed CRT.&nbsp; More need to step up so we can stop this radical ideology.&nbsp; You can attend the meeting or contact the Board of Regents by visiting:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnebraska.edu%2Fregents%2Fboard-members&amp;data=04%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C801198b110204d669fd408d9b41dedf4%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637738862903518576%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=boTyBcHpLQMK90PpzGndEsCwsryvYkys9izp%2FHW2fck%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nebraska.edu/regents/board-members</a>.If you’ve seen CRT being imposed at a college or K-12 school, please let me know by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Pete.Ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">Pete.Ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or calling 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Our kids deserve an education that’s free from narrow-minded ideology.&nbsp; Together, let’s work to keep the educational focus on excellence, not identity politics, in Nebraska.

Gov. Ricketts: Choosing educational excellence over ideology

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — One of three men accused in a fatal shooting on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in 2016 has been sentenced in federal court after reaching a plea deal with prosecutors. 

Twenty-eight-year-old Estevan Baquera was given 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to accessory to first-degree murder in the death of Vinny Brewer outside of the Boys and Girls Club in Pine Ridge.

 Prosecutors said Baquera traveled to Pine Ridge with two other men to collect a drug debt from Brewer. 

Baquera said making that trip was ”the worst decision of his life,” but he claimed he didn’t know of the plan to kill Brewer.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — One of three men accused in a fatal shooting on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in 2016 has been sentenced in federal court after reaching a plea deal with prosecutors. Twenty-eight-year-old Estevan Baquera was given 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to accessory to first-degree murder in the death of Vinny Brewer outside of the Boys and Girls Club in Pine Ridge. Prosecutors said Baquera traveled to Pine Ridge with two other men to collect a drug debt from Brewer. Baquera said making that trip was ”the worst decision of his life,” but he claimed he didn’t know of the plan to kill Brewer.

2016 Pine Ridge reservation slaying draws 15-year sentence

The Chadron Arby's restaurant will helping to raise funds for the Chadron Caring and Sharing Program on Dec. 3 from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

15% of Arby's sales will be donated to the program.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638289693226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Chadron Arby's restaurant will helping to raise funds for the Chadron Caring and Sharing Program on Dec. 3 from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.15% of Arby's sales will be donated to the program.&nbsp;

Chadron Caring and Sharing Program partner with Arby's to raise funds

LINCOLN&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol assisted 215 motorists and removed from the road 13 impaired drivers during the Thanksgiving weekend.

“Good weather made for safe travel conditions across much of our state over Thanksgiving weekend,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As the winter months approach, now is the time to begin preparing for winter driving.”

The Nebraska State Patrol, along with dozens of other law enforcement agencies in Nebraska, participated in the annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign. The effort ran from Wednesday, November 24 through Sunday, November 28.

In addition to the 13 arrests for impaired driving, troopers also issued citations for speeding (413), driving under suspension (21), open alcohol container (3), minor in possession (3), no proof of insurance (10), no seat belt (10), and improper child restraint (5). Troopers also performed 215 motorist assists over Thanksgiving weekend.

As the winter season approaches, NSP also urges Nebraskans to prepare. Monday, the Nebraska Department of Transportation announced improvements to the Nebraska 511 system, found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.511.nebraska.gov</a>. In addition to winter driving conditions, the system also now includes weather radar, severe weather warnings, a commercial vehicle mode, and other improvements.

“Now is a great time to familiarize yourself with the new and improved 511 Nebraska Advanced Traveler System,” said Colonel Bolduc. “The upgraded system will provide excellent information for travelers year-round, but especially during the winter season. And as always, we urge every motorist to buckle up, every trip and every time.”

The “Click It or Ticket” operation was made possible thanks in part to a grant for $25,500 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

LINCOLN&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol assisted 215 motorists and removed from the road 13 impaired drivers during the Thanksgiving weekend.“Good weather made for safe travel conditions across much of our state over Thanksgiving weekend,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As the winter months approach, now is the time to begin preparing for winter driving.”The Nebraska State Patrol, along with dozens of other law enforcement agencies in Nebraska, participated in the annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign. The effort ran from Wednesday, November 24 through Sunday, November 28.In addition to the 13 arrests for impaired driving, troopers also issued citations for speeding (413), driving under suspension (21), open alcohol container (3), minor in possession (3), no proof of insurance (10), no seat belt (10), and improper child restraint (5). Troopers also performed 215 motorist assists over Thanksgiving weekend.As the winter season approaches, NSP also urges Nebraskans to prepare. Monday, the Nebraska Department of Transportation announced improvements to the Nebraska 511 system, found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.511.nebraska.gov</a>. In addition to winter driving conditions, the system also now includes weather radar, severe weather warnings, a commercial vehicle mode, and other improvements.“Now is a great time to familiarize yourself with the new and improved 511 Nebraska Advanced Traveler System,” said Colonel Bolduc. “The upgraded system will provide excellent information for travelers year-round, but especially during the winter season. And as always, we urge every motorist to buckle up, every trip and every time.”The “Click It or Ticket” operation was made possible thanks in part to a grant for $25,500 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Troopers complete Thanksgiving 'Click It or Ticket' effort   

By&nbsp;Rick Hickstein, Chadron Police Chief

As a service to our community, each year dog licenses are made available a little early to assist in early registration. This year is no different; as of Dec. 1, the 2022 City of Chadron dog licenses will be available for purchase. 

They will be available at the Police Department - 125 Main Street, and at Chadron Veterinary Clinic - 108 North Main Street.

 Below is the normal fee schedule for Dog Licenses:

Early Registration &amp; New Dog License Fees

January of each year, City of Chadron Dog Licenses will be available at the following rates: -Altered dogs (Spay or Neutered): $5.00 -Intact (Non-altered dogs): $15.00

A thirty-day grace period is also allowed for anyone who acquires a new dog, moves into the area with a dog, or has a puppy that turns six (6) months old after February 1st of each year, allowing dog owners to purchase City of Chadron Dog Licenses at the above rates.

Late Registration Dog License Fees

After February 1st of each year, the following rates will apply: -Altered dogs (Spay or Neutered): $20.00 -Intact (Non-altered dogs): $40.00

If you have any questions about these fees or any Animal Ordinance(s), please feel free to contact the Chadron Police Department at: (308) 432-0510.

By&nbsp;Rick Hickstein, Chadron Police ChiefAs a service to our community, each year dog licenses are made available a little early to assist in early registration. This year is no different; as of Dec. 1, the 2022 City of Chadron dog licenses will be available for purchase. They will be available at the Police Department - 125 Main Street, and at Chadron Veterinary Clinic - 108 North Main Street. Below is the normal fee schedule for Dog Licenses:Early Registration &amp; New Dog License FeesJanuary of each year, City of Chadron Dog Licenses will be available at the following rates: -Altered dogs (Spay or Neutered): $5.00 -Intact (Non-altered dogs): $15.00A thirty-day grace period is also allowed for anyone who acquires a new dog, moves into the area with a dog, or has a puppy that turns six (6) months old after February 1st of each year, allowing dog owners to purchase City of Chadron Dog Licenses at the above rates.Late Registration Dog License FeesAfter February 1st of each year, the following rates will apply: -Altered dogs (Spay or Neutered): $20.00 -Intact (Non-altered dogs): $40.00If you have any questions about these fees or any Animal Ordinance(s), please feel free to contact the Chadron Police Department at: (308) 432-0510.

Chadron police remind citizens about dog licenses

At its Nov. 15 meeting Chadron City Council approved on first reading a speed limit change in public school areas.

The ordinance will change speed limits to 15 MPH around Chadron Public Schools.&nbsp;

"Our school resource officer [Derek Bauer] has been advocating for a number of years for a more consistent approach to speed in the school zones," Chadron City Manager John Sutherland said. "It's a huge child safety concern for the school resources officer. When the traffic piles up at the schools where the parents are dropping their children off it gets a little tied up a bit. The students get&nbsp;anxious and they jump out of the car a block away. And then the other traffic that's backed up; there are parents letting off other kids. It becomes a real hazard as the kids dodge in and out of the traffic. He [Bauer] proposed that the city finally, officially adopt school zones and then we adopt consistent signage so that the law enforcement can actually enforce speed limits and enforce safety precautions."

Sutherland said the city has never had school zones established.&nbsp;

"Apparently some place along the line, over the years, city staff just went to the various school locations and placed signs at places that they thought it was appropriate," Sutherland said. "And as a consequence, the signs are not consistently established. The areas are not consistently established. We never did a really good job of marking the beginning of school zones. We have certainly not done a good job of marking the end of school zones. We haven't been good with making it clear...what hours school speed zones were supposed to be observed. We've introduced legislation now to systematize that whole process."

Sutherland said these changes will improve student safety.&nbsp;

"And hopefully it actually improves travel flow," Sutherland said. "We have good input from the council members because almost all of them have experience with younger children who they do drop off at school. They've seen first hand the scary things that go on. We're going to be a little more thorough in the placement of stop signs so that we can regulate the traffic through the various intersections, hopefully improving access and traffic movement."

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostAt its Nov. 15 meeting Chadron City Council approved on first reading a speed limit change in public school areas.The ordinance will change speed limits to 15 MPH around Chadron Public Schools.&nbsp;"Our school resource officer [Derek Bauer] has been advocating for a number of years for a more consistent approach to speed in the school zones," Chadron City Manager John Sutherland said. "It's a huge child safety concern for the school resources officer. When the traffic piles up at the schools where the parents are dropping their children off it gets a little tied up a bit. The students get&nbsp;anxious and they jump out of the car a block away. And then the other traffic that's backed up; there are parents letting off other kids. It becomes a real hazard as the kids dodge in and out of the traffic. He [Bauer] proposed that the city finally, officially adopt school zones and then we adopt consistent signage so that the law enforcement can actually enforce speed limits and enforce safety precautions."Sutherland said the city has never had school zones established.&nbsp;"Apparently some place along the line, over the years, city staff just went to the various school locations and placed signs at places that they thought it was appropriate," Sutherland said. "And as a consequence, the signs are not consistently established. The areas are not consistently established. We never did a really good job of marking the beginning of school zones. We have certainly not done a good job of marking the end of school zones. We haven't been good with making it clear...what hours school speed zones were supposed to be observed. We've introduced legislation now to systematize that whole process."Sutherland said these changes will improve student safety.&nbsp;"And hopefully it actually improves travel flow," Sutherland said. "We have good input from the council members because almost all of them have experience with younger children who they do drop off at school. They've seen first hand the scary things that go on. We're going to be a little more thorough in the placement of stop signs so that we can regulate the traffic through the various intersections, hopefully improving access and traffic movement."

Chadron council approves school zone improvements on first reading

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D.&nbsp;– The commander of the 28th Bomb Wing announced today he has removed Chief Master Sgt. Justin Deisch from his position as the 28th BW command chief for behavior that demonstrated a lack of respect, judgement and professionalism expected of a senior non-commissioned officer.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “Inappropriate conduct undermines standards of good order and discipline,” said Col. Joseph Sheffield, 28th BW commander. “Based on the results of a thorough investigation, Chief Deisch’s removal was necessary to uphold these high standards. All Airmen should be treated with dignity and respect, and senior leaders should set the example for subordinates by exercising sound judgement and decision-making both on and off duty.”

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The 28th BW command chief is the primary advisor to the commander on all matters concerning the morale, welfare, warfighting effectiveness, operational utilization and professional development of nearly 3,200 enlisted Airmen who support the largest B-1 combat wing in the U.S. Air Force.

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D.&nbsp;– The commander of the 28th Bomb Wing announced today he has removed Chief Master Sgt. Justin Deisch from his position as the 28th BW command chief for behavior that demonstrated a lack of respect, judgement and professionalism expected of a senior non-commissioned officer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “Inappropriate conduct undermines standards of good order and discipline,” said Col. Joseph Sheffield, 28th BW commander. “Based on the results of a thorough investigation, Chief Deisch’s removal was necessary to uphold these high standards. All Airmen should be treated with dignity and respect, and senior leaders should set the example for subordinates by exercising sound judgement and decision-making both on and off duty.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The 28th BW command chief is the primary advisor to the commander on all matters concerning the morale, welfare, warfighting effectiveness, operational utilization and professional development of nearly 3,200 enlisted Airmen who support the largest B-1 combat wing in the U.S. Air Force.

Ellsworth Air Force Base Command Chief removed 

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A federal judge has blocked President Joe Biden's administration from enforcing a coronavirus vaccine mandate on health care workers in 10 states. 

The preliminary injunction issued Monday applies to a coalition of suing states. 

They are Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. 

A federal judge in Missouri said the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid had no clear authority from Congress to enact the vaccine mandate for health care providers that participate in the two government programs.

 The rule requires workers to receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by Dec. 6 and their second dose by Jan. 4.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A federal judge has blocked President Joe Biden's administration from enforcing a coronavirus vaccine mandate on health care workers in 10 states. The preliminary injunction issued Monday applies to a coalition of suing states. They are Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. A federal judge in Missouri said the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid had no clear authority from Congress to enact the vaccine mandate for health care providers that participate in the two government programs. The rule requires workers to receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by Dec. 6 and their second dose by Jan. 4.

Biden vaccine rule for health workers blocked in 10 states

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is seeking public input on its updated draft pheasant management plan. The 2021 Berggren Plan is named after the late Lynn Berggren, who served as a Commissioner from 2007-2016.

The plan seeks to improve the pheasant hunting experience in Nebraska over the next five years with a primary emphasis on improving habitat and increasing public access with several priority areas located throughout the state. The plan aims to build on past successes, expand partnerships statewide, and continue to direct effective pheasant management activities.

Game and Parks will host a virtual public informational meeting at 7 p.m. Central time on Dec. 8, 2021. Attendees should register online in advance at outdoornebraska.gov/pheasantplan. The draft plan is available online for review.

People can provide feedback on the plan by commenting during the virtual meeting, using the comment submission form on the plan webpage (link above), or by emailing Upland Game Program Manager John Laux at john.laux@nebraska.gov.

The public is invited to provide comments on the draft plan through Dec. 15, 2021.

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is seeking public input on its updated draft pheasant management plan. The 2021 Berggren Plan is named after the late Lynn Berggren, who served as a Commissioner from 2007-2016.The plan seeks to improve the pheasant hunting experience in Nebraska over the next five years with a primary emphasis on improving habitat and increasing public access with several priority areas located throughout the state. The plan aims to build on past successes, expand partnerships statewide, and continue to direct effective pheasant management activities.Game and Parks will host a virtual public informational meeting at 7 p.m. Central time on Dec. 8, 2021. Attendees should register online in advance at outdoornebraska.gov/pheasantplan. The draft plan is available online for review.People can provide feedback on the plan by commenting during the virtual meeting, using the comment submission form on the plan webpage (link above), or by emailing Upland Game Program Manager John Laux at john.laux@nebraska.gov.The public is invited to provide comments on the draft plan through Dec. 15, 2021.

Game and Parks seeks comment on updated pheasant management plan

Governor Pete Ricketts appointed Patrick M. Lee of Kearney as District Court Judge in the Ninth Judicial District, which consists of Buffalo and Hall counties.

Lee, 37, has worked in the Buffalo County Attorney’s Office as Deputy County Attorney since May 2011.&nbsp; In that capacity, he has prosecuted all levels of criminal cases. &nbsp;Over the past decade, Lee has served as a special prosecutor on numerous occasions, including appointments in Adams, Dawson, Kearney, and Phelps counties.&nbsp; Additionally, Lee has routinely created and presented continuing education courses.

Lee holds a B.A. in History from Nebraska Wesleyan University and a Juris Doctor with a Certificate in the Litigation Concentration from Creighton University School of Law.&nbsp; He is a member of the Nebraska State Bar Association and was named its Outstanding Young Lawyer in 2018.&nbsp; Nebraska Mothers Against Drunk Driving presented him with its Hero Award in 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lee is a member, and recently completed his term as chair, of the Client Assistance Fund Board, to which he was appointed by the Nebraska Supreme Court.&nbsp; As chair, he worked with fellow members to receive, review, investigate, and make determinations on claims of loss related to dishonest conduct by Nebraska attorneys.&nbsp; Lee also is a member of the Supreme Court’s Technology Committee.

Lee is currently President of the Board of Directors of HelpCare Clinic, a safety net clinic serving the uninsured in Buffalo and Kearney counties. &nbsp;The clinic opened its doors to patients in 2015, and Lee has been on its board since 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp; Lee is also an alumnus of Leadership Kearney as a member of Class #23.

Lee is being appointed to the District Court to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Mark J. Young.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638208010872.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Governor RickettsGovernor Pete Ricketts appointed Patrick M. Lee of Kearney as District Court Judge in the Ninth Judicial District, which consists of Buffalo and Hall counties.Lee, 37, has worked in the Buffalo County Attorney’s Office as Deputy County Attorney since May 2011.&nbsp; In that capacity, he has prosecuted all levels of criminal cases. &nbsp;Over the past decade, Lee has served as a special prosecutor on numerous occasions, including appointments in Adams, Dawson, Kearney, and Phelps counties.&nbsp; Additionally, Lee has routinely created and presented continuing education courses.Lee holds a B.A. in History from Nebraska Wesleyan University and a Juris Doctor with a Certificate in the Litigation Concentration from Creighton University School of Law.&nbsp; He is a member of the Nebraska State Bar Association and was named its Outstanding Young Lawyer in 2018.&nbsp; Nebraska Mothers Against Drunk Driving presented him with its Hero Award in 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lee is a member, and recently completed his term as chair, of the Client Assistance Fund Board, to which he was appointed by the Nebraska Supreme Court.&nbsp; As chair, he worked with fellow members to receive, review, investigate, and make determinations on claims of loss related to dishonest conduct by Nebraska attorneys.&nbsp; Lee also is a member of the Supreme Court’s Technology Committee.Lee is currently President of the Board of Directors of HelpCare Clinic, a safety net clinic serving the uninsured in Buffalo and Kearney counties. &nbsp;The clinic opened its doors to patients in 2015, and Lee has been on its board since 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp; Lee is also an alumnus of Leadership Kearney as a member of Class #23.Lee is being appointed to the District Court to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Mark J. Young.

Gov. Ricketts appoints new judge for Buffalo, Hall counties

By ABIGAIL SWANSON, CSC College Relations

CHADRON –Dr. Grant Sasse, who was recently hired to teach in Psychological Sciences as an Associate Professor, has some interesting connections to Chadron State College.

In 2007, Sasse transferred to CSC after two years at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis. He graduated with a bachelor’s in Psychology and earned a master’s in Community Mental Health Counseling, while working as a graduate assistant for the Counseling, Psychology, and Social Work department. Through the assistantship, he gained his first teaching experience. He also competed for the Eagles’ track and field team for a year and met many people, some who are still at CSC.

For Sasse, the Chadron area is home. His father, John Sasse, was in the Air Force so his family moved every three years. However, every summer Sasse worked on a family ranch near Gordon where his father grew up, or at the family farm in Holstein, Nebraska, where his mother, Eileen, grew up. &nbsp;

“I love the feel of this town. It has everything I need, and yet is still small,” Sasse said.

Sasse went on to earn a doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Wyoming in 2014.

After teaching for six years at the University of Alaska in Anchorage, Alaska, and spending one year in Houston, Texas, at the University of St. Thomas, Sasse saw the position at CSC, and applied for the opportunity to return home.

“Living in Alaska was great. I liked it, but I had no family there,” Sasse said.

Though years have passed since he studied at CSC, Sasse feels right at home. He is active in the Newman House where he interned as a student, works in the same building where he was a graduate assistant, and Dr. Mary Jo Carnot, the first person he met at CSC, is just down the hall. &nbsp;

“I’m doing what I’m doing now because of my relationships with my professors,” he said.

He looks forward to connecting with students, training future counselors, and giving back to a program that forged his career.

“The counseling profession is growing so fast. There’s such a need for counselors in the communities. There’s a shortage. More people are needing mental health help than ever. Being a part of that kind of movement is fun and rewarding,” Sasse said.

By ABIGAIL SWANSON, CSC College RelationsCHADRON –Dr. Grant Sasse, who was recently hired to teach in Psychological Sciences as an Associate Professor, has some interesting connections to Chadron State College.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638204729832.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In 2007, Sasse transferred to CSC after two years at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis. He graduated with a bachelor’s in Psychology and earned a master’s in Community Mental Health Counseling, while working as a graduate assistant for the Counseling, Psychology, and Social Work department. Through the assistantship, he gained his first teaching experience. He also competed for the Eagles’ track and field team for a year and met many people, some who are still at CSC.For Sasse, the Chadron area is home. His father, John Sasse, was in the Air Force so his family moved every three years. However, every summer Sasse worked on a family ranch near Gordon where his father grew up, or at the family farm in Holstein, Nebraska, where his mother, Eileen, grew up. &nbsp;“I love the feel of this town. It has everything I need, and yet is still small,” Sasse said.Sasse went on to earn a doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Wyoming in 2014.After teaching for six years at the University of Alaska in Anchorage, Alaska, and spending one year in Houston, Texas, at the University of St. Thomas, Sasse saw the position at CSC, and applied for the opportunity to return home.“Living in Alaska was great. I liked it, but I had no family there,” Sasse said.Though years have passed since he studied at CSC, Sasse feels right at home. He is active in the Newman House where he interned as a student, works in the same building where he was a graduate assistant, and Dr. Mary Jo Carnot, the first person he met at CSC, is just down the hall. &nbsp;“I’m doing what I’m doing now because of my relationships with my professors,” he said.He looks forward to connecting with students, training future counselors, and giving back to a program that forged his career.“The counseling profession is growing so fast. There’s such a need for counselors in the communities. There’s a shortage. More people are needing mental health help than ever. Being a part of that kind of movement is fun and rewarding,” Sasse said.