By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Remember how we used to buy our coffee in 3 lb cans? A three pound can of coffee weighs 48 ounces. When I searched for a 3 lb can of Folgers online, I found some that weighed 43.5 oz, but most were 40.3 oz. This is shrinkflation.

In shrinkflation, items shrink in size or quantity, but the price remains the same.

Shrinkflation happens a lot when we have inflation. Manufacturers can reduce their costs without raising their prices, and consumers often don't notice the change. Who noticed that Procter &amp; Gamble reduced the number of squares in a mega roll of Charmin toilet paper from 264 to 244? (12=48: Does that mean 80 fewer squares?) And a square that used to be 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 is now 4 x 3.92 inches.

Sometimes the game is played by switching from pounds or ounces to grams. In the 1980's, one-pound bags of coffee became 400 grams, not 453.6 grams.

Businesses realize that many consumers are price conscious. They notice when the price goes up, but they don't notice that the size went down.

Supermarket News reviewed a report from Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey. The publication tells us, "Common household and grocery items noticeably decreased in size from January 2019 to October 2023 yet unit prices rose more than 20%. The report also called out products like Gatorade bottles (which have 12% less liquid), Double-Stuffed Oreos (weighs 6% less), and Walmart’s Great Value Ultra Strong paper towel roll (28% fewer sheets)."

Forbes magazine says the biggest shrinkflation offenders are the dollar stores. Thirty years ago it was Walmart. These companies have enough sales that they can demand that manufacturers repackage goods into smaller sizes, knowing that most of their customers won't notice the price increase per unit, or won't see that shopping someplace else is a better alternative.

Even services suffer from shrinkflation. If you've traveled recently, you've undoubtedly noticed that your hotel room isn't cleaned every day. Unless you call the front desk and request that service, it won't be cleaned until you check out. You may still get your towels swapped, but that's it. And you may have to ask for that!

Shrinkflation is calculated into the inflation rate by the government, which looks at per unit prices. But the government doesn't look at "skimpflation," where companies use cheaper materials to make their products. Why do so many companies use corn syrup rather than sugar to sweeten their products? Why do your paper towels and toilet paper feel different?

Have corporations been squeezed by inflation? What has happened to their profits since Covid in 2020? Corporate profits were up 22.6% in 2021, 9.8% in 2022 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. The most recent statistic, from third quarter 2023 (July-September) showed corporate profits increased $108.7 billion, but the BEA doesn't say what total profits are. There is a reason why the stock market is so high.

Next time you are buying groceries, pay attention to the size of the packages you are purchasing. And look at the tag on the shelf that gives the per unit cost. Did the price really stay the same?

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityRemember how we used to buy our coffee in 3 lb cans? A three pound can of coffee weighs 48 ounces. When I searched for a 3 lb can of Folgers online, I found some that weighed 43.5 oz, but most were 40.3 oz. This is shrinkflation.In shrinkflation, items shrink in size or quantity, but the price remains the same.Shrinkflation happens a lot when we have inflation. Manufacturers can reduce their costs without raising their prices, and consumers often don't notice the change. Who noticed that Procter &amp; Gamble reduced the number of squares in a mega roll of Charmin toilet paper from 264 to 244? (12=48: Does that mean 80 fewer squares?) And a square that used to be 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 is now 4 x 3.92 inches.Sometimes the game is played by switching from pounds or ounces to grams. In the 1980's, one-pound bags of coffee became 400 grams, not 453.6 grams.Businesses realize that many consumers are price conscious. They notice when the price goes up, but they don't notice that the size went down.Supermarket News reviewed a report from Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey. The publication tells us, "Common household and grocery items noticeably decreased in size from January 2019 to October 2023 yet unit prices rose more than 20%. The report also called out products like Gatorade bottles (which have 12% less liquid), Double-Stuffed Oreos (weighs 6% less), and Walmart’s Great Value Ultra Strong paper towel roll (28% fewer sheets)."Forbes magazine says the biggest shrinkflation offenders are the dollar stores. Thirty years ago it was Walmart. These companies have enough sales that they can demand that manufacturers repackage goods into smaller sizes, knowing that most of their customers won't notice the price increase per unit, or won't see that shopping someplace else is a better alternative.Even services suffer from shrinkflation. If you've traveled recently, you've undoubtedly noticed that your hotel room isn't cleaned every day. Unless you call the front desk and request that service, it won't be cleaned until you check out. You may still get your towels swapped, but that's it. And you may have to ask for that!Shrinkflation is calculated into the inflation rate by the government, which looks at per unit prices. But the government doesn't look at "skimpflation," where companies use cheaper materials to make their products. Why do so many companies use corn syrup rather than sugar to sweeten their products? Why do your paper towels and toilet paper feel different?Have corporations been squeezed by inflation? What has happened to their profits since Covid in 2020? Corporate profits were up 22.6% in 2021, 9.8% in 2022 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. The most recent statistic, from third quarter 2023 (July-September) showed corporate profits increased $108.7 billion, but the BEA doesn't say what total profits are. There is a reason why the stock market is so high.Next time you are buying groceries, pay attention to the size of the packages you are purchasing. And look at the tag on the shelf that gives the per unit cost. Did the price really stay the same?

Getting Ahead: Shrinkflation 

Healthy Families in the Nebraska Panhandle has been reaccredited as a provider of high-quality home visiting services to pregnant families and families with infants and young children. The program currently serves 95 families.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to continue offering evidence-based services to our Panhandle communities by implementing Healthy Families America’s model with fidelity. Research over the past 30 years shows impactful results for families participating in this beautiful program. Our team grew through the reaccreditation process, and we are delighted to know we are providing outstanding services to our families,” said Dez Brandt, Healthy Families Program Manager with Panhandle Public Health District.

Expectant and new parents are facing new stressors and have questions about their child’s development. Healthy Families connects with community partners like hospitals and pediatricians to support parents, meeting within the familiarity and convenience of the family’s own home. This program is an accessible, voluntary, and a well-received service. 

“Healthy Families sites utilize evidence-based best practices to provide individualized support to families when needed most, and linkages to community services,” said Melissa Merrick, President and CEO of Prevent Child Abuse America. “We congratulate the Nebraska Panhandle site, and we commend the staff for their leadership and commitment that has contributed to this most notable and highly regarded achievement.”

The accreditation process is based upon a stringent set of 12 critical elements grounded in more than 30 years of research. The process involves an in-depth examination of the site’s operation, as well as, the quality of the visits made by home visitors.

One of the primary goals of Healthy Families is to promote nurturing, responsive parent-child relationships. Home visitors in each community receive extensive training on a wide range of topics important to just about every new parent, such as: caring for a new baby, ensuring the baby is receiving the nutrition needed, promoting healthy child development, and coping with a myriad of other potential stresses, such as financial, housing, partner relationship, etc., that may become heightened with an addition to the family.

 Healthy Families America is an effective and proven evidence-based home visiting program according to the U.S. Department of Health &amp;amp; Human Services. Prevent Child Abuse America is proud to support Healthy Families and to be part of a national movement dedicated to improving the lives of families and children.

For additional information about Healthy Families or to make a referral to this important home visitation program, visit www.pphd.ne.gov or call Dez Brandt at 308-633-2866. Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community.

By PPH<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710863548083.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><ul>
 <li>Healthy Families Team (l-r) back: Linda Ainslie, Kim Engel (PPHD Director), Valerie VanWinkle, Myrna Hernandez, Amber Salazar, Jennifer Buxbaum, Monica De Los Santos; front: Dez Brandt, Ashleigh Rada; not pictured – Alma Sanchez</li>
 </ul>Healthy Families in the Nebraska Panhandle has been reaccredited as a provider of high-quality home visiting services to pregnant families and families with infants and young children. The program currently serves 95 families.“We are grateful for the opportunity to continue offering evidence-based services to our Panhandle communities by implementing Healthy Families America’s model with fidelity. Research over the past 30 years shows impactful results for families participating in this beautiful program. Our team grew through the reaccreditation process, and we are delighted to know we are providing outstanding services to our families,” said Dez Brandt, Healthy Families Program Manager with Panhandle Public Health District.Expectant and new parents are facing new stressors and have questions about their child’s development. Healthy Families connects with community partners like hospitals and pediatricians to support parents, meeting within the familiarity and convenience of the family’s own home. This program is an accessible, voluntary, and a well-received service. “Healthy Families sites utilize evidence-based best practices to provide individualized support to families when needed most, and linkages to community services,” said Melissa Merrick, President and CEO of Prevent Child Abuse America. “We congratulate the Nebraska Panhandle site, and we commend the staff for their leadership and commitment that has contributed to this most notable and highly regarded achievement.”The accreditation process is based upon a stringent set of 12 critical elements grounded in more than 30 years of research. The process involves an in-depth examination of the site’s operation, as well as, the quality of the visits made by home visitors.One of the primary goals of Healthy Families is to promote nurturing, responsive parent-child relationships. Home visitors in each community receive extensive training on a wide range of topics important to just about every new parent, such as: caring for a new baby, ensuring the baby is receiving the nutrition needed, promoting healthy child development, and coping with a myriad of other potential stresses, such as financial, housing, partner relationship, etc., that may become heightened with an addition to the family. Healthy Families America is an effective and proven evidence-based home visiting program according to the U.S. Department of Health &amp;amp; Human Services. Prevent Child Abuse America is proud to support Healthy Families and to be part of a national movement dedicated to improving the lives of families and children.For additional information about Healthy Families or to make a referral to this important home visitation program, visit www.pphd.ne.gov or call Dez Brandt at 308-633-2866. Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community.Visit our website www.pphd.ne.gov.

PPHD Healthy Families home visitation program receives reaccreditation

By&nbsp;Sgt. Mark Bliss, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office

On March 18, at approximately 3:53 p.m., the Sheriff's Office was contacted by family members of Madison Hicks, male, age 31, of Scottsbluff.&nbsp; They reported that Mr. Hicks has been missing since going on a motorcycle ride yesterday.&nbsp; Mr. Hicks reportedly was en-route to Kimball but has not been heard from since.

As deputies were still working on gathering information about the missing person report, another report was received about a motorcycle that was found off the roadway along Hwy 71, south of Gering.&nbsp;

Deputies responded and upon arrival found Madison Hicks deceased.

The investigation revealed that Mr. Hicks was riding his BMW motorcycle southbound on Hwy 71 in the area north of the "Wildcat Estates" when he failed to negotiate a curve, crossing the median into the northbound traffic lane, ran off the road to the left, leaving the roadway.&nbsp; Mr. Hicks was ejected from the motorcycle during the crash.&nbsp;

Excessive speed is investigated as contributing factor in the crash. Motorcycle helmet was in use at the time of the crash, but it appears that the helmet was not properly secured.&nbsp;

By&nbsp;Sgt. Mark Bliss, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s OfficeOn March 18, at approximately 3:53 p.m., the Sheriff's Office was contacted by family members of Madison Hicks, male, age 31, of Scottsbluff.&nbsp; They reported that Mr. Hicks has been missing since going on a motorcycle ride yesterday.&nbsp; Mr. Hicks reportedly was en-route to Kimball but has not been heard from since.As deputies were still working on gathering information about the missing person report, another report was received about a motorcycle that was found off the roadway along Hwy 71, south of Gering.&nbsp;Deputies responded and upon arrival found Madison Hicks deceased.The investigation revealed that Mr. Hicks was riding his BMW motorcycle southbound on Hwy 71 in the area north of the "Wildcat Estates" when he failed to negotiate a curve, crossing the median into the northbound traffic lane, ran off the road to the left, leaving the roadway.&nbsp; Mr. Hicks was ejected from the motorcycle during the crash.&nbsp;Excessive speed is investigated as contributing factor in the crash. Motorcycle helmet was in use at the time of the crash, but it appears that the helmet was not properly secured.&nbsp;

Panhandle man dies following motorcycle 

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; —&nbsp; Nebraska State Patrol troopers removed 10 impaired drivers from the road as a part of a special enforcement effort around St. Patrick’s Day. The campaign, which ran from Saturday evening through Monday morning, included numerous law enforcement agencies across the state.

In total, troopers arrested 10 motorists for driving under the influence. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (171), minor in possession of alcohol (3), driving under suspension (14), no seat belt (2), and improper child restraint (2). Troopers also performed 54 motorists assists during St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

NSP’s effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

As warmer weather arrives, NSP reminds all motorists to help keep Nebraska roads safe. Remember to always drive sober, follow posted speed limits, and traffic safety laws, avoid distractions, and wear your seatbelt. Troopers will participate in many additional traffic safety initiatives throughout the spring and summer months.&nbsp;

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; —&nbsp; Nebraska State Patrol troopers removed 10 impaired drivers from the road as a part of a special enforcement effort around St. Patrick’s Day. The campaign, which ran from Saturday evening through Monday morning, included numerous law enforcement agencies across the state.In total, troopers arrested 10 motorists for driving under the influence. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (171), minor in possession of alcohol (3), driving under suspension (14), no seat belt (2), and improper child restraint (2). Troopers also performed 54 motorists assists during St. Patrick’s Day weekend.NSP’s effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.As warmer weather arrives, NSP reminds all motorists to help keep Nebraska roads safe. Remember to always drive sober, follow posted speed limits, and traffic safety laws, avoid distractions, and wear your seatbelt. Troopers will participate in many additional traffic safety initiatives throughout the spring and summer months.&nbsp;

Troopers arrest impaired drivers in St. Patrick’s Day Campaign

Fire Chief Troy Shoemaker has successfully completed the process that awards the professional designation of “Chief Fire Officer” (CFO). The Commission on Professional Credentialing® (CPC®) met on March 15th to confer the designation. Chief Shoemaker becomes one of only 1,899 CFOs worldwide. Chief Shoemaker is 1 of 7 in the State of Nebraska.

The Designation program is a voluntary program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate their excellence in seven measured components including experience, education, professional development, professional contributions, association membership, community involvement, and technical competence. In addition, all applicants are required to identify a future professional development plan.

The CFO designation program uses a comprehensive peer review model to evaluate candidates seeking the credential. The Commission on Professional Credentialing awards the designation only after an individual successfully meets all the organization’s stringent criteria.

Achieving this designation signifies Chief Shoemaker’s career commitment to the fire and emergency services.

This professional designation is valid for three years. Maintaining the designation requires recipients to show continued growth in the areas of professional development, professional contributions, active association membership, and community involvement as well as adhere to a strict code of professional conduct The Commission on Professional Credentialing, an entity of the Center for Public Safety Excellence®, Inc., (CPSE®) administers the Designation Program. The CPC consists of individuals from academia, federal and local government, and the fire and emergency medical services profession. To learn more about CPC, visit www.cpse.org/credentialing.

By City of AllianceFire Chief Troy Shoemaker has successfully completed the process that awards the professional designation of “Chief Fire Officer” (CFO). The Commission on Professional Credentialing® (CPC®) met on March 15th to confer the designation. Chief Shoemaker becomes one of only 1,899 CFOs worldwide. Chief Shoemaker is 1 of 7 in the State of Nebraska.The Designation program is a voluntary program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate their excellence in seven measured components including experience, education, professional development, professional contributions, association membership, community involvement, and technical competence. In addition, all applicants are required to identify a future professional development plan.The CFO designation program uses a comprehensive peer review model to evaluate candidates seeking the credential. The Commission on Professional Credentialing awards the designation only after an individual successfully meets all the organization’s stringent criteria.Achieving this designation signifies Chief Shoemaker’s career commitment to the fire and emergency services.This professional designation is valid for three years. Maintaining the designation requires recipients to show continued growth in the areas of professional development, professional contributions, active association membership, and community involvement as well as adhere to a strict code of professional conduct The Commission on Professional Credentialing, an entity of the Center for Public Safety Excellence®, Inc., (CPSE®) administers the Designation Program. The CPC consists of individuals from academia, federal and local government, and the fire and emergency medical services profession. To learn more about CPC, visit www.cpse.org/credentialing.

AFD Chief completes International Professional Designation Process

By Kerri Rempp, Discover Northwest Nebraska

The Northwest Nebraska region has submitted nominations for the second annual tourism industry awards, presented in three categories: Business/Attraction of the Year, Frontline Employee of the Year, and Tourism Volunteer of the Year.

The winners will be announced at the fourth annual Treasure Chest of the Northwest tourism industry workshop, scheduled for April 4 at the Dawes County Fairgrounds. Doors will open at 5 p.m., with the event set to start at 5:30 p.m. The evening will include a brochure swap, networking opportunities, a local business perspective by Valerie Homrighausen of Prairie Agate Rock Shop, and presentations on collaboration, the 2023 tourism season and more.

Anyone working in the tourism industry in Dawes and Sioux counties is invited to attend. RSVPs are due to director@discovernwnebraska.com or 308-432-3006 by March 29.

Chadron State Park: Chadron State Park is Nebraska&amp;#39;s first state park, established in 1921. The park celebrated 100 years in 2021 and has a annual celebration each June with music, vendors, food and lots of kid activities. The park attracts an annual visitation of over 400,000 people a year, with roughly half coming from in-state and half out-of-state. The park provides a huge economic impact to the community all year long, hosting hunters in the shoulder seasons and ark visitors for camping and activities during the summer. Chadron State Park is a hidden gem, but we are happy to share it with all visitors.

Runza: I absolutely love going to the Runza Restaurant in Chadron, NE - not only is their food wonderful, but I thoroughly enjoy ALL of their employees. They are super nice, welcoming, always in good moods, and remember me and what I want to order. They are always super helpful and nice to all of those people who visit and order food, no matter if they are local or are visiting &amp;quot;tourists.&amp;quot; It is definitely a place that anyone can stop by and feel like the people who work there &amp;quot;make their day. Jackson - the manager - really keeps all his people going and in a very positive mood. I look forward to stopping by there even just to say.

Carrie Frahm: Just stepping into the Perk Up Coffee place - one feels very welcome and wanted. It is such a pleasure to talk to Carrie Frahm whether it is ordering something or letting her know what is going on around the area so that she can share it with her customers, too. The place is great to look around with the historical photos on the wall or when Carrie has an event in there such as during the

Crawford Cattle Call:&nbsp;I definitely believe the Carrie deserves the Frontline Employee of the Year Award.

Cody Kronhofman: Cody Kronhofman works at Wild's and is a fantastic front line staff member. He not only brings a tenacious attitude to the situation, he is quick, he cares about his guests and the business he is working with and it shows by the hospitality that he brings to the table. Cody always remembers exactly what I like to drink for lunch, the additional items that I really enjoy with my meal that I don't even have to request at this point; he just remembers and makes it happen. He is wonderful at ensuring he greets guests when they arrive and walk into the establishment and treats everyone like a local.

Debbon Shields: Debbon Shields is the new office manager at Chadron State Park. She has been revamping the gift shop with new and improved items, along with making it look great with new paint and carpet. She has been working with local businesses to provide products for our gift shop. Hercustomer relations is excellent and that is also true for the employees she works with. Debbon has beena huge asset to the park and we are very fortunate to have her.

Willow Davies: Willow Davies, an employee at Wild's is a wonderful front line worker who shows her diligence through urgency in how she moves within the restaurant that she works. Willow has a great memory and usually does not have to write down your order. Not only that, she is able to remember folks, meal on a regular basis, making us here feel like we have a true local sense of belonging. Willow is very speedy, precise, and detailed. She has great customer service skills that translates over within hospitality and how she works with each guest that come in to dine.

Randy Kane: Randy Kane is an AWESOME volunteer!!! He volunteers out at The Museum of the Fur Trade and every time I go out there, especially with Upward Bound High School Students, he gets them engaged with his presentation and scavenger hunt, throughout the museum including the outside teepee and original site of the Fur Trade Store. Randy is extremely knowledgeable about a great many historical events, people, items - artifacts in the museum that he makes it an adventure every time we visit.

By Kerri Rempp, Discover Northwest NebraskaThe nominees are in!The Northwest Nebraska region has submitted nominations for the second annual tourism industry awards, presented in three categories: Business/Attraction of the Year, Frontline Employee of the Year, and Tourism Volunteer of the Year.The winners will be announced at the fourth annual Treasure Chest of the Northwest tourism industry workshop, scheduled for April 4 at the Dawes County Fairgrounds. Doors will open at 5 p.m., with the event set to start at 5:30 p.m. The evening will include a brochure swap, networking opportunities, a local business perspective by Valerie Homrighausen of Prairie Agate Rock Shop, and presentations on collaboration, the 2023 tourism season and more.Anyone working in the tourism industry in Dawes and Sioux counties is invited to attend. RSVPs are due to director@discovernwnebraska.com or 308-432-3006 by March 29.This year’s award nominees are:Chadron State Park: Chadron State Park is Nebraska&amp;#39;s first state park, established in 1921. The park celebrated 100 years in 2021 and has a annual celebration each June with music, vendors, food and lots of kid activities. The park attracts an annual visitation of over 400,000 people a year, with roughly half coming from in-state and half out-of-state. The park provides a huge economic impact to the community all year long, hosting hunters in the shoulder seasons and ark visitors for camping and activities during the summer. Chadron State Park is a hidden gem, but we are happy to share it with all visitors.Runza: I absolutely love going to the Runza Restaurant in Chadron, NE - not only is their food wonderful, but I thoroughly enjoy ALL of their employees. They are super nice, welcoming, always in good moods, and remember me and what I want to order. They are always super helpful and nice to all of those people who visit and order food, no matter if they are local or are visiting &amp;quot;tourists.&amp;quot; It is definitely a place that anyone can stop by and feel like the people who work there &amp;quot;make their day. Jackson - the manager - really keeps all his people going and in a very positive mood. I look forward to stopping by there even just to say.Carrie Frahm: Just stepping into the Perk Up Coffee place - one feels very welcome and wanted. It is such a pleasure to talk to Carrie Frahm whether it is ordering something or letting her know what is going on around the area so that she can share it with her customers, too. The place is great to look around with the historical photos on the wall or when Carrie has an event in there such as during theCrawford Cattle Call:&nbsp;I definitely believe the Carrie deserves the Frontline Employee of the Year Award.Cody Kronhofman: Cody Kronhofman works at Wild's and is a fantastic front line staff member. He not only brings a tenacious attitude to the situation, he is quick, he cares about his guests and the business he is working with and it shows by the hospitality that he brings to the table. Cody always remembers exactly what I like to drink for lunch, the additional items that I really enjoy with my meal that I don't even have to request at this point; he just remembers and makes it happen. He is wonderful at ensuring he greets guests when they arrive and walk into the establishment and treats everyone like a local.Debbon Shields: Debbon Shields is the new office manager at Chadron State Park. She has been revamping the gift shop with new and improved items, along with making it look great with new paint and carpet. She has been working with local businesses to provide products for our gift shop. Hercustomer relations is excellent and that is also true for the employees she works with. Debbon has beena huge asset to the park and we are very fortunate to have her.Willow Davies: Willow Davies, an employee at Wild's is a wonderful front line worker who shows her diligence through urgency in how she moves within the restaurant that she works. Willow has a great memory and usually does not have to write down your order. Not only that, she is able to remember folks, meal on a regular basis, making us here feel like we have a true local sense of belonging. Willow is very speedy, precise, and detailed. She has great customer service skills that translates over within hospitality and how she works with each guest that come in to dine.Randy Kane: Randy Kane is an AWESOME volunteer!!! He volunteers out at The Museum of the Fur Trade and every time I go out there, especially with Upward Bound High School Students, he gets them engaged with his presentation and scavenger hunt, throughout the museum including the outside teepee and original site of the Fur Trade Store. Randy is extremely knowledgeable about a great many historical events, people, items - artifacts in the museum that he makes it an adventure every time we visit.

Chadron Tourism award nominees announced

The final event of the Alliance Arts Councils 2023-2024 season will be held on Saturday, March 23rd at 7:00 p.m. in the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center.

THE FLYOVERS, from Lincoln, NE is an A Cappella vocal group that formed during the pandemic. Their first two albums, Tis the Season!, (2020) and Now and Then (2021) were released before they ever met in person as a group! Both albums did well in the region, and the group finally performed for the Nebraska State Fair in fall of 2021 as their first live performance. Many shows have followed, including events at the Minden Opera House, Doane University, and The 1206. Their third album, Holiday, was released in November 2021 to similar success.

The members of the group are Lucas Kellison - tenor, Ether Saure - tenor,

Anna Claridge – soprano, Bill Catlett – bass, and DeWayne Taylor – beatbox. You can hear a sampling of their music on their website www.flyoversmusic.com or on YouTube.

Tickets for the Alliance concert are $10 for Adults, $9 for Senior and $5 for students. Tickets are available at Carnegie Arts Center and the Chamber. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

The performance is co-presented by Harris Sales, FNBO, FNIC, Western Nebraska Real Estate and KCOW/Double Q Country Radio. All Alliance Arts Council events are made possible by the generous support of the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.

By Alliance Arts Council<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710777281262.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The final event of the Alliance Arts Councils 2023-2024 season will be held on Saturday, March 23rd at 7:00 p.m. in the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center.THE FLYOVERS, from Lincoln, NE is an A Cappella vocal group that formed during the pandemic. Their first two albums, Tis the Season!, (2020) and Now and Then (2021) were released before they ever met in person as a group! Both albums did well in the region, and the group finally performed for the Nebraska State Fair in fall of 2021 as their first live performance. Many shows have followed, including events at the Minden Opera House, Doane University, and The 1206. Their third album, Holiday, was released in November 2021 to similar success.The members of the group are Lucas Kellison - tenor, Ether Saure - tenor,Anna Claridge – soprano, Bill Catlett – bass, and DeWayne Taylor – beatbox. You can hear a sampling of their music on their website www.flyoversmusic.com or on YouTube.Tickets for the Alliance concert are $10 for Adults, $9 for Senior and $5 for students. Tickets are available at Carnegie Arts Center and the Chamber. Tickets will also be sold at the door.The performance is co-presented by Harris Sales, FNBO, FNIC, Western Nebraska Real Estate and KCOW/Double Q Country Radio. All Alliance Arts Council events are made possible by the generous support of the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.

Lincoln A Cappella group to perform March 23 in Alliance

POST PODCAST: United Way Meets Annual Fundraising Goal

CHADRON –&nbsp;Seven Chadron State College seniors are exhibiting their work in the Versicolor Senior Art Show until April 9 in Memorial Hall’s Main Gallery. The display features a wide variety of media such as sculpture, ceramics, collage, photography, painting, graphic design, illustration, and digital art prints.

The artists, who are graduating in May, are Allison Acosta of Tucson, Ariz., Marissa Borchard of Sidney, Neb., Corey Griffin of Omaha, Cipher Helfer of Custer, S.D., Madison Kinney of Gering, Neb., Kalen Lotton of Harrison, Neb., and Othello Fairbanks of Salt Lake City.

According to a press release by the seniors, they have chosen the best of their works to reflect what they have learned from their years of study at CSC.

A reception for the artists will be April 5 in Memorial Hall’s Lobby&nbsp;from 4:30 to 7 p.m. following the Inauguration of CSC’s twelfth president Dr. Ron K. Patterson.

For more information, contact Mary Donahue at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mdonahue@csc.edu" target="_blank">mdonahue@csc.edu</a>&nbsp;or Val Graf at 308-432-6317.

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710775610878.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON –&nbsp;Seven Chadron State College seniors are exhibiting their work in the Versicolor Senior Art Show until April 9 in Memorial Hall’s Main Gallery. The display features a wide variety of media such as sculpture, ceramics, collage, photography, painting, graphic design, illustration, and digital art prints.The artists, who are graduating in May, are Allison Acosta of Tucson, Ariz., Marissa Borchard of Sidney, Neb., Corey Griffin of Omaha, Cipher Helfer of Custer, S.D., Madison Kinney of Gering, Neb., Kalen Lotton of Harrison, Neb., and Othello Fairbanks of Salt Lake City.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710775561249.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>According to a press release by the seniors, they have chosen the best of their works to reflect what they have learned from their years of study at CSC.A reception for the artists will be April 5 in Memorial Hall’s Lobby&nbsp;from 4:30 to 7 p.m. following the Inauguration of CSC’s twelfth president Dr. Ron K. Patterson.For more information, contact Mary Donahue at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mdonahue@csc.edu" target="_blank">mdonahue@csc.edu</a>&nbsp;or Val Graf at 308-432-6317.

Chadron Senior Art Show features work of 7 students

P202400127 09:53 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Officer was dispatched to the 25th Street apartments for several windows shot out by a BB gun. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400128 13:41 JUV : JUVENILE Received a call about a juvenile out of control that had left the house walking south on Platte Avenue. Case is open and active pending a CAPSTONE interview with the juvenile. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400128 13:41 JUV : JUVENILE Received a call about a juvenile out of control that had left the house walking south on Platte Avenue. Case is open and active pending a CAPSTONE interview with the juvenile. Open - Under Investigation

P202400129 21:01 THEFT : THEFT responded to the 700 block of east 8th street in reference to a stolen bike/case report taken Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400130 06:25 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Officer dispatched to a residence on the 400 block of Potash for an intoxicated female who was suicidal. The female was transported to the ER at BBGH for an evaluation. Closed - Resolved

P202400131 07:42 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Was dispatched to the lobby of the police station to take a report of criminal mischief. The complainant stated his pickup was parked in front of his house and someone shot it with a BB attempting to break the driver's window. The BB left damage to the upper door frame with a BB sized indentation. No suspects at this time and case is inactive until further leads. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400132 15:02 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Inactive - Case

P202400133 01:12 STOLEN VEHICLE : officers responded to a stolen vehicle traveling south bound on 2500 block of Box Butte Avenue/ Officers were able to identify the vehicle/ Officers initiated a traffic stop/ Vehicle failed to stop which initiated a pursuit/ Officers were able to apprehend the male juvenile without incident/ Juvenile was transported to Madison Detention Center Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400135 06:49 10-45 : MVA INJURY MVA near 8th and Laramie Ave / Injuries reported / 1 driver 3 passengers / Vehicle struck a parked vehicle / All parties transported to BBGH by AVFD / Minor injuries Closed - Resolved

P202400136 12:57 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Informational

P202400142 19:27 WARRANT : ARREST Closed - Resolved

P202400137 19:27 DISTURBANCE : Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400137 19:27 DISTURBANCE : Closed - Resolved

P202400138 19:27 FOUND : FOUND Inactive - Case

P202400141 10:08 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY Closed - Resolved

By Alliance Police Department03/10/24P202400127 09:53 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Officer was dispatched to the 25th Street apartments for several windows shot out by a BB gun. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400128 13:41 JUV : JUVENILE Received a call about a juvenile out of control that had left the house walking south on Platte Avenue. Case is open and active pending a CAPSTONE interview with the juvenile. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202400128 13:41 JUV : JUVENILE Received a call about a juvenile out of control that had left the house walking south on Platte Avenue. Case is open and active pending a CAPSTONE interview with the juvenile. Open - Under InvestigationP202400129 21:01 THEFT : THEFT responded to the 700 block of east 8th street in reference to a stolen bike/case report taken Inactive - Case Suspended03/10/24 Total: 403/11/24P202400130 06:25 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Officer dispatched to a residence on the 400 block of Potash for an intoxicated female who was suicidal. The female was transported to the ER at BBGH for an evaluation. Closed - ResolvedP202400131 07:42 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Was dispatched to the lobby of the police station to take a report of criminal mischief. The complainant stated his pickup was parked in front of his house and someone shot it with a BB attempting to break the driver's window. The BB left damage to the upper door frame with a BB sized indentation. No suspects at this time and case is inactive until further leads. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400132 15:02 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Inactive - CaseSuspended03/11/24 Total: 303/12/24P202400133 01:12 STOLEN VEHICLE : officers responded to a stolen vehicle traveling south bound on 2500 block of Box Butte Avenue/ Officers were able to identify the vehicle/ Officers initiated a traffic stop/ Vehicle failed to stop which initiated a pursuit/ Officers were able to apprehend the male juvenile without incident/ Juvenile was transported to Madison Detention Center Closed - Charges Recommended03/13/24P202400135 06:49 10-45 : MVA INJURY MVA near 8th and Laramie Ave / Injuries reported / 1 driver 3 passengers / Vehicle struck a parked vehicle / All parties transported to BBGH by AVFD / Minor injuries Closed - ResolvedP202400136 12:57 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : InformationalP202400142 19:27 WARRANT : ARREST Closed - ResolvedP202400137 19:27 DISTURBANCE : Closed - Charges RecommendedP202400137 19:27 DISTURBANCE : Closed - ResolvedP202400138 19:27 FOUND : FOUND Inactive - CaseSuspended03/13/24 Total: 603/14/24P202400141 10:08 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY Closed - Resolved03/14/24 Total: 1Total Records: 15

Alliance Police Department: The Media Report 

NORTH PLATTE, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies, arrested three people following a pursuit and manhunt in southwest Nebraska Friday evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday evening, NSP was informed that the Furnas County Sheriff’s Office was attempting to locate a vehicle believed to be driven by a subject with an active warrant. At approximately 7:15 p.m., a trooper located the vehicle, a Chevrolet Equinox, as it was traveling northbound on Highway 283 near Elwood. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver immediately turned onto a county road and fled westbound. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The vehicle continued on county roads for approximately 30 minutes. During the pursuit, the occupants threw several items out of the vehicle. The suspect vehicle eventually drove into a pasture in Lincoln County, southwest of Gothenburg, and came to a stop. All three occupants fled on foot.

Numerous law enforcement officers arrived at the scene to search the area. After approximately three hours, troopers were able to utilize a thermal drone to locate the subjects. All three subjects were then taken into custody. Additional personnel located the items thrown from the vehicle, which were multiple bags containing methamphetamine.

All three occupants, identified as Brian Titman, 45, of Kearney, David Griffitt, 37, of Trenton, and Madison Arledge, 26, of McCook, were lodged in Dawson County Jail for numerous offenses, including possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver, tampering with physical evidence, flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, and obstructing a peace officer. Titman and Arledge each had active warrants.

NSP was assisted by deputies from Gosper County, Dawson County, and Lincoln County during this incident.

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;NORTH PLATTE, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies, arrested three people following a pursuit and manhunt in southwest Nebraska Friday evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Friday evening, NSP was informed that the Furnas County Sheriff’s Office was attempting to locate a vehicle believed to be driven by a subject with an active warrant. At approximately 7:15 p.m., a trooper located the vehicle, a Chevrolet Equinox, as it was traveling northbound on Highway 283 near Elwood. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver immediately turned onto a county road and fled westbound. The trooper initiated a pursuit.The vehicle continued on county roads for approximately 30 minutes. During the pursuit, the occupants threw several items out of the vehicle. The suspect vehicle eventually drove into a pasture in Lincoln County, southwest of Gothenburg, and came to a stop. All three occupants fled on foot.Numerous law enforcement officers arrived at the scene to search the area. After approximately three hours, troopers were able to utilize a thermal drone to locate the subjects. All three subjects were then taken into custody. Additional personnel located the items thrown from the vehicle, which were multiple bags containing methamphetamine.All three occupants, identified as Brian Titman, 45, of Kearney, David Griffitt, 37, of Trenton, and Madison Arledge, 26, of McCook, were lodged in Dawson County Jail for numerous offenses, including possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver, tampering with physical evidence, flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, and obstructing a peace officer. Titman and Arledge each had active warrants.NSP was assisted by deputies from Gosper County, Dawson County, and Lincoln County during this incident.

3 arrested after pursuit, search in southwest Nebraska 

The combined concert band programs of Chadron State College and the Chadron Public Schools will perform in concert Tuesday, March 19, in Memorial Hall Auditorium. The concert will begin at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Opening the concert will be the Chadron 6th&nbsp;Grade Band followed by the 7th&nbsp;and 8th&nbsp;Grade Band.&nbsp;The High School Band will then take the stage.&nbsp;The Chadron School &nbsp;Bands are under the direction of Joe Rischling.

The Chadron State College Wind Symphony will perform under the direction of Dr. John Wojcik. The culminating performance will be the combined CSC Wind Symphony, CSC Community Symphonic Band and the High School Band.&nbsp;This 80-piece ensemble will perform an original composition,&nbsp;From The Bottom,&nbsp;composed by Thomas Hughes, a former member the High School Band and the CSC Wind Symphony.

By Chadron State CollegeThe combined concert band programs of Chadron State College and the Chadron Public Schools will perform in concert Tuesday, March 19, in Memorial Hall Auditorium. The concert will begin at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Opening the concert will be the Chadron 6th&nbsp;Grade Band followed by the 7th&nbsp;and 8th&nbsp;Grade Band.&nbsp;The High School Band will then take the stage.&nbsp;The Chadron School &nbsp;Bands are under the direction of Joe Rischling.The Chadron State College Wind Symphony will perform under the direction of Dr. John Wojcik. The culminating performance will be the combined CSC Wind Symphony, CSC Community Symphonic Band and the High School Band.&nbsp;This 80-piece ensemble will perform an original composition,&nbsp;From The Bottom,&nbsp;composed by Thomas Hughes, a former member the High School Band and the CSC Wind Symphony.

CSC and CPS bands will perform on Tue

By Chabella Guzman, PREEC Communications Specialist

Nebraska’s only Sewing Lab opened to the public on Jan. 22 at the UNL Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center, PREEC, in Scottsbluff. The lab is the 4-H Lego Club Panhandle Cookie Bytes, Innovation Project, which is a part of the Nebraska FIRST LEGO® League Competition.

“This year, First Lego League's goal was to promote the arts through STEM,” said Natalie Creech, Scottsbluff 4-H leader. So, the kids chose to do sewing. We evaluated their hobbies and made spidergraphs (like treegraphs) to weigh out the options, and sewing came out on top.” Then, the club realized they could best serve the community by creating a sewing lab.&nbsp;

Through research, the youth found that there was only one other sewing lab in the Midwest, and it was located in Kansas City, Mo. The club collaborated with Sew Cool, the Scottsbluff 4-H sewing club, and the Extension Center to get their project off the ground. They gave a presentation to John Westra, director of PREEC, to see if they could use a room in the building for their lab.&nbsp;

“They came up with this creative idea of a sewing lab that provides free access to sewing machines and staff during specific hours to the community,” Westra said. “I was very impressed and really appreciate the initiative and innovation of these 4-Hers.” He provided them with space on the second floor of the center. On Jan. 11, the Panhandle Cookie Bytes moved sewing equipment, spools of thread, and other materials into the lab.&nbsp;

The First Lego League Competition has core values the teams need to follow. The Bytes used the values to build and keep them on track to complete the Sewing Lab. They noted on a poster that the core value, “inclusion,” helped them engage the Scotts Bluff County Homemaker Club. The 4Hers said that the project was intergenerational, as "every&nbsp;single lady was old enough to be our grandmother.”&nbsp;

The Panhandle Cookie Bytes also learned about the benefits of sewing, such as helping to reduce the risk of dementia, preserving memory, and lowering blood pressure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even the Lego robot the club created for the competition benefited from sewing. The club consists of three girls and four boys, and when it came time to name their robot, the girls chose Bernina. It is the brand name of some of the sewing machines in the lab and means strong and brave. “The girls felt we needed another girl, and this time, I let the girls decide, so we went with Bernina,” said Creech.&nbsp;

The community is welcome to visit and sew in the lab by appointment from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or arrangements can be made for weekends or after hours at&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/vicd" target="_blank">https://go.unl.edu/vicd</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710616283316.jpeg" alt="the Sewing Lab Open House on March 9 included a bookmark-making event for the attendees. Cole Pierce, left, gets help from Gage Creech, a member of the Panhandle Cookie Bytes. Other members, Brooklyn Creech, and Sneha Adeesha Maharjan sorted material for the bookmarks.Photo by Chabella Guzman" />
 <figcaption>the Sewing Lab Open House on March 9 included a bookmark-making event for the attendees. Cole Pierce, left, gets help from Gage Creech, a member of the Panhandle Cookie Bytes. Other members, Brooklyn Creech, and Sneha Adeesha Maharjan sorted material for the bookmarks.Photo by Chabella Guzman</figcaption>
 </figure>By Chabella Guzman, PREEC Communications SpecialistNebraska’s only Sewing Lab opened to the public on Jan. 22 at the UNL Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center, PREEC, in Scottsbluff. The lab is the 4-H Lego Club Panhandle Cookie Bytes, Innovation Project, which is a part of the Nebraska FIRST LEGO® League Competition.“This year, First Lego League's goal was to promote the arts through STEM,” said Natalie Creech, Scottsbluff 4-H leader. So, the kids chose to do sewing. We evaluated their hobbies and made spidergraphs (like treegraphs) to weigh out the options, and sewing came out on top.” Then, the club realized they could best serve the community by creating a sewing lab.&nbsp;Through research, the youth found that there was only one other sewing lab in the Midwest, and it was located in Kansas City, Mo. The club collaborated with Sew Cool, the Scottsbluff 4-H sewing club, and the Extension Center to get their project off the ground. They gave a presentation to John Westra, director of PREEC, to see if they could use a room in the building for their lab.&nbsp;“They came up with this creative idea of a sewing lab that provides free access to sewing machines and staff during specific hours to the community,” Westra said. “I was very impressed and really appreciate the initiative and innovation of these 4-Hers.” He provided them with space on the second floor of the center. On Jan. 11, the Panhandle Cookie Bytes moved sewing equipment, spools of thread, and other materials into the lab.&nbsp;The First Lego League Competition has core values the teams need to follow. The Bytes used the values to build and keep them on track to complete the Sewing Lab. They noted on a poster that the core value, “inclusion,” helped them engage the Scotts Bluff County Homemaker Club. The 4Hers said that the project was intergenerational, as "every&nbsp;single lady was old enough to be our grandmother.”&nbsp;The Panhandle Cookie Bytes also learned about the benefits of sewing, such as helping to reduce the risk of dementia, preserving memory, and lowering blood pressure.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even the Lego robot the club created for the competition benefited from sewing. The club consists of three girls and four boys, and when it came time to name their robot, the girls chose Bernina. It is the brand name of some of the sewing machines in the lab and means strong and brave. “The girls felt we needed another girl, and this time, I let the girls decide, so we went with Bernina,” said Creech.&nbsp;The community is welcome to visit and sew in the lab by appointment from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or arrangements can be made for weekends or after hours at&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/vicd" target="_blank">https://go.unl.edu/vicd</a>&nbsp;

 Sewing Lab Open House in Scottsbluff finds success 

By Chadron State College College Relations

In addition, nominees for the Teaching Excellence Award, Dr. Rachelle Rider and Dr. Michael Stephens, were recognized. Stephens, who came to CSC in 2007, received the award. His compositions have been selected by the Kearney New Music Festival four times since 2018. He has been commissioned to compose music for several Nebraska music organizations and invited to be a guest conductor at various events.

Based on his belief that change is best achieved incrementally with time provided to develop approaches and ideas, he has developed a Music Theory Foundation course which helps students have more time to be prepared for the curriculum and advance through it effectively.

After pondering a 2020 study asserting that music theory in the U.S. is racist, he incorporated discussion and assignments based on popular music early in the music curriculum which he found increased student engagement and helped diversify the Western European-centered approach.

Stephens said he took it upon himself to become well-informed about the music curriculum and the education department sequence and has written advising templates for more than 10 years. As a result of his accumulated expertise, he is sought out by students and faculty who have questions about advising, course rotation, and graduation requirements.

Liberal Arts Dean Dr. Jim Margetts, in his nomination, said Stephens is genuinely student-centered and has a knack for creating learning activities that engage and motivate students.

Stephens’ colleague and department chair Dr. Rick Puzzo said by eliminating courses no longer needed, combining courses, and creating new courses, Stephens has helped streamline the curriculum and helped CSC be competitive among peer institutions.

Bolze has worked at Chadron State College for 10 years. Bolze, an Office Assistant III, has worked within Admissions and Enrollment Management.

She said she enjoys working with incoming students, answering their questions, and helping them prepare for enrollment.

Bolze said she also enjoyed interacting closely with the Admissions’ Call Center student workers.

“That has been a huge highlight. It was enjoyable developing relationships, both with the parents and the students, and it’s been fun to stay in touch with a lot of them,” she said. “My very favorite part of the whole job was all of the personal connections and working with mainly incoming freshman students and their parents. It was really fulfilling watching those students succeed.”

Bolze and her husband, Ron, a retired Professor in the Rangeland Management department, also enjoyed hosting students at their home and making personal connections.

“We’ve been to lots of baby showers and weddings. It’s rewarding to make those lifelong connections with students,” she said.

Bolze also grew close to a lot of the Admissions recruiters.

“They’ve been a lot of fun to work with too, over the years,” she said.

Although Bolze is an Ohio native, she loves Chadron. She said that she and Ron are looking forward to spending more time with their grandchildren and watching more western Nebraska sunsets and sunrises.

The Bolzes work closely with their youngest child, Sadie, who has taken over day-to-day management of Bolze Ranch Angus, a herd the family has developed for 45 years. They have a keen interest in human nutrition and plan to support Sadie in Bolze Beef direct-to-consumer grass finished beef sales.

Cavin started in the Chadron State College Theatre Department in 1996. He was a native of California who came to Chadron from Georgia. He taught theatre design, theatre history, play script analysis, and designed sets and lights for more than 130 productions. About 15 years later, Cavin started directing and has directed 16 productions.

The performances Cavin has brought to CSC are popular, but also challenging.

“‘Extremities’ was uncomfortable for so many different reasons. But it was also a very popular and very powerful performance,” he said. “‘Vampire Cowboy Trilogy,’ ‘Extremities,’ and ‘The Play About the Baby’ all allowed me to work with the students through all the elements of a theatrical production.”

“The Evil Dead” set was designed by alumni Leo Haselhorst who is the Technical Director at Sky Light Musical Theatre in Milwaukee. In his final note of thanks to Cavin for his internship, Haselhorst thanked Cavin for mentoring him and acknowledged Cavin’s encouragement opened many doors for him.

Cavin became the department chair in 2019 and was excited that the administration allowed him to bring in professional guest artists each year.

“It was great for the students, allowing them to get a wide range of experiences and do some professional networking also,” he said.

Amy Campion, one of Cavin’s former students, came back to design the set of “Peter and the Starcatcher” and teach students about set design and painting.

He’s invited a wide range of alumni back to CSC as guest designers including Anna&nbsp;Owens for costuming, and most recently Casey Kearns, who was a student during Cavin’s first year. Kearns returned to design costumes for 2024’s “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” and teach costume construction.

“I’ve got a lot of former students all across the country, working consistently,” he said.

In the fall of 2023, Cavin chose to tap three student directors with three different casts to perform “What the Constitution Means to Me.” His decision allowed nine actors to participate, in addition to the three directors.

“I talked to audience members who came back to see all three directors’ interpretations of the script. It was amazing how different they were, while still maintaining the same intent of the script,” he said.

Cavin’s retirement plans include moving to Kansas City and getting married. He anticipates that he and his wife will travel to visit family.

Cavin said he might walk dogs for a local dog daycare center. He plans to take a break from theatre for a bit although he expects to return to it at some point.

Hunn started at Chadron State College in 2014 as a Maintenance Worker III.

He describes his work as repairing and replacing campus property, as well as installing flooring and drywall in campus buildings.

“I’m really glad I came to work here. I’ve made a lot of new friends. They are great to work with. Especially Pat Mracek who has helped me so much with computer stuff,” he said.

Once in his 10 years of employment at CSC, Hunn was snowed out during the December 2022 snowstorms. Highway 385 south of Chadron was blocked and he could not travel from home to campus.

Before joining the CSC staff, Hunn was a self-employed horseshoeing professional for 31 years.

He and his wife, Lorie, who is a professor in the Family and Consumer Sciences department, lived in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, for 17 years in the winters and he worked construction while she taught school. They spent their summers in Chadron where he did farrier work.

In 2003, they and their children Sheyenne and Slade, moved back to the Chadron area. Slade works at Pine Ridge Job Corps and details cars. Sheyenne and her husband, Mike Sandstrom, are teachers in Chadron. They have two sons, Roman and Lukah.

Hunn’s retirement plans include completing some home repairs, fishing, and camping. He plans to pick up Roman on early-out days from school. He will also spend time on a ranch he co-owns with his brother in McPherson County in the Sandhills.

Kuhnel worked at Chadron State College for three decades before retiring in 2024. She started in 1999 as an Office Assistant I in Human Resources (HR) and answered the campus switchboard and covered the mailroom when needed for five years. She said the position was good experience and she was able to learn the names of employees and their locations on campus.

In 2004, Kuhnel became the assistant to the interim Dean of Arts and Sciences, Dr.&nbsp;Kathy Bahr. She was tasked with assisting with the 2007 HLC reaccreditation study and managed the physical evidence room, as well as the digital evidence room.

A year later, Dr. Charles Snare was hired in the Dean’s position and Kuhnel worked for him for four years. Their biggest initiative was the computer rotation plan. Kuhnel surveyed Arts and Sciences faculty, and using manufacturer’s recommendations, helped develop a planned computer rotation with Snare and others.

Following a reorganization, Kuhnel was named the Director of the Graduate program and worked closely with Dr. Margaret Crouse, the dean responsible for graduate studies, for five years.

When some graduate students experienced extreme medical circumstances, Kuhnel said she coined the phrase “policy with compassion” to describe the approach they took.

When she left the graduate program, she said it had grown 30 percent and 654 graduate students were enrolled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710615790511.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College President Dr. Ron K. Patterson, left, congratulates Teaching Excellence Award recipient Dr. Michael Stephens March 14, 2024, in the CSC Student Center during the annual employee recognition luncheon. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College President Dr. Ron K. Patterson, left, congratulates Teaching Excellence Award recipient Dr. Michael Stephens March 14, 2024, in the CSC Student Center during the annual employee recognition luncheon. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Chadron State College College RelationsIn addition, nominees for the Teaching Excellence Award, Dr. Rachelle Rider and Dr. Michael Stephens, were recognized. Stephens, who came to CSC in 2007, received the award. His compositions have been selected by the Kearney New Music Festival four times since 2018. He has been commissioned to compose music for several Nebraska music organizations and invited to be a guest conductor at various events.Based on his belief that change is best achieved incrementally with time provided to develop approaches and ideas, he has developed a Music Theory Foundation course which helps students have more time to be prepared for the curriculum and advance through it effectively.After pondering a 2020 study asserting that music theory in the U.S. is racist, he incorporated discussion and assignments based on popular music early in the music curriculum which he found increased student engagement and helped diversify the Western European-centered approach.Stephens said he took it upon himself to become well-informed about the music curriculum and the education department sequence and has written advising templates for more than 10 years. As a result of his accumulated expertise, he is sought out by students and faculty who have questions about advising, course rotation, and graduation requirements.Liberal Arts Dean Dr. Jim Margetts, in his nomination, said Stephens is genuinely student-centered and has a knack for creating learning activities that engage and motivate students.Stephens’ colleague and department chair Dr. Rick Puzzo said by eliminating courses no longer needed, combining courses, and creating new courses, Stephens has helped streamline the curriculum and helped CSC be competitive among peer institutions.Years of Service Awards45 YearsBrenda Barry-Schommer35 YearsDewayne Gimeson30 YearsShellie JohnsLaure Chantal Sinn25 YearsJereme PattersonDr. Robert StackThomas Deane Tucker20 YearsMary P. DonahueDr. Karen EnosCricket HaagJames MargettsMarianne MowrySheila Pourier15 YearsSonja L. DresselCasey A. JamesKathleen E. Woods, PhD10 YearsJessyca ArnoldDr. Robin BrierlyAmee DiersSarah DykesDr. Josh EllisStarr GiorgiLisa HaasBrooks HafeyDr. Brittany HelmbrechtFred HunnHarold MowryDr. Erin Norman, RDNKelly Lynn OvershinerPaula PerlinskiDr. John Ritzen5 YearsMark D. HuntDr. Pil Joon (PJ) KimNancy KnaubDr. Chris McCarthyDr. Rachelle RiderDr. Katie RustClint SasseCarrie SayalouneJennifer StadlerJeff TurmanChristina WintersBecky BolzeBolze has worked at Chadron State College for 10 years. Bolze, an Office Assistant III, has worked within Admissions and Enrollment Management.She said she enjoys working with incoming students, answering their questions, and helping them prepare for enrollment.Bolze said she also enjoyed interacting closely with the Admissions’ Call Center student workers.“That has been a huge highlight. It was enjoyable developing relationships, both with the parents and the students, and it’s been fun to stay in touch with a lot of them,” she said. “My very favorite part of the whole job was all of the personal connections and working with mainly incoming freshman students and their parents. It was really fulfilling watching those students succeed.”Bolze and her husband, Ron, a retired Professor in the Rangeland Management department, also enjoyed hosting students at their home and making personal connections.“We’ve been to lots of baby showers and weddings. It’s rewarding to make those lifelong connections with students,” she said.Bolze also grew close to a lot of the Admissions recruiters.“They’ve been a lot of fun to work with too, over the years,” she said.Although Bolze is an Ohio native, she loves Chadron. She said that she and Ron are looking forward to spending more time with their grandchildren and watching more western Nebraska sunsets and sunrises.The Bolzes work closely with their youngest child, Sadie, who has taken over day-to-day management of Bolze Ranch Angus, a herd the family has developed for 45 years. They have a keen interest in human nutrition and plan to support Sadie in Bolze Beef direct-to-consumer grass finished beef sales.Scott CavinCavin started in the Chadron State College Theatre Department in 1996. He was a native of California who came to Chadron from Georgia. He taught theatre design, theatre history, play script analysis, and designed sets and lights for more than 130 productions. About 15 years later, Cavin started directing and has directed 16 productions.The performances Cavin has brought to CSC are popular, but also challenging.“‘Extremities’ was uncomfortable for so many different reasons. But it was also a very popular and very powerful performance,” he said. “‘Vampire Cowboy Trilogy,’ ‘Extremities,’ and ‘The Play About the Baby’ all allowed me to work with the students through all the elements of a theatrical production.”“The Evil Dead” set was designed by alumni Leo Haselhorst who is the Technical Director at Sky Light Musical Theatre in Milwaukee. In his final note of thanks to Cavin for his internship, Haselhorst thanked Cavin for mentoring him and acknowledged Cavin’s encouragement opened many doors for him.Cavin became the department chair in 2019 and was excited that the administration allowed him to bring in professional guest artists each year.“It was great for the students, allowing them to get a wide range of experiences and do some professional networking also,” he said.Amy Campion, one of Cavin’s former students, came back to design the set of “Peter and the Starcatcher” and teach students about set design and painting.He’s invited a wide range of alumni back to CSC as guest designers including Anna&nbsp;Owens for costuming, and most recently Casey Kearns, who was a student during Cavin’s first year. Kearns returned to design costumes for 2024’s “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” and teach costume construction.“I’ve got a lot of former students all across the country, working consistently,” he said.In the fall of 2023, Cavin chose to tap three student directors with three different casts to perform “What the Constitution Means to Me.” His decision allowed nine actors to participate, in addition to the three directors.“I talked to audience members who came back to see all three directors’ interpretations of the script. It was amazing how different they were, while still maintaining the same intent of the script,” he said.Cavin’s retirement plans include moving to Kansas City and getting married. He anticipates that he and his wife will travel to visit family.Cavin said he might walk dogs for a local dog daycare center. He plans to take a break from theatre for a bit although he expects to return to it at some point.Dave “Fred” HunnHunn started at Chadron State College in 2014 as a Maintenance Worker III.He describes his work as repairing and replacing campus property, as well as installing flooring and drywall in campus buildings.“I’m really glad I came to work here. I’ve made a lot of new friends. They are great to work with. Especially Pat Mracek who has helped me so much with computer stuff,” he said.Once in his 10 years of employment at CSC, Hunn was snowed out during the December 2022 snowstorms. Highway 385 south of Chadron was blocked and he could not travel from home to campus.Before joining the CSC staff, Hunn was a self-employed horseshoeing professional for 31 years.He and his wife, Lorie, who is a professor in the Family and Consumer Sciences department, lived in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, for 17 years in the winters and he worked construction while she taught school. They spent their summers in Chadron where he did farrier work.In 2003, they and their children Sheyenne and Slade, moved back to the Chadron area. Slade works at Pine Ridge Job Corps and details cars. Sheyenne and her husband, Mike Sandstrom, are teachers in Chadron. They have two sons, Roman and Lukah.Hunn’s retirement plans include completing some home repairs, fishing, and camping. He plans to pick up Roman on early-out days from school. He will also spend time on a ranch he co-owns with his brother in McPherson County in the Sandhills.Kristal KuhnelKuhnel worked at Chadron State College for three decades before retiring in 2024. She started in 1999 as an Office Assistant I in Human Resources (HR) and answered the campus switchboard and covered the mailroom when needed for five years. She said the position was good experience and she was able to learn the names of employees and their locations on campus.In 2004, Kuhnel became the assistant to the interim Dean of Arts and Sciences, Dr.&nbsp;Kathy Bahr. She was tasked with assisting with the 2007 HLC reaccreditation study and managed the physical evidence room, as well as the digital evidence room.A year later, Dr. Charles Snare was hired in the Dean’s position and Kuhnel worked for him for four years. Their biggest initiative was the computer rotation plan. Kuhnel surveyed Arts and Sciences faculty, and using manufacturer’s recommendations, helped develop a planned computer rotation with Snare and others.Following a reorganization, Kuhnel was named the Director of the Graduate program and worked closely with Dr. Margaret Crouse, the dean responsible for graduate studies, for five years.When some graduate students experienced extreme medical circumstances, Kuhnel said she coined the phrase “policy with compassion” to describe the approach they took.When she left the graduate program, she said it had grown 30 percent and 654 graduate students were enrolled.For a year, she reported to Dean Dr. Joel Hyer as director of special projects. When the Director of Health Professions position became vacant, Kuhnel filled it for nine years.She worked closely with students helping them track their progress toward graduate school requirements, hosted an annual Health Professions Showcase, recruited and organized interviews for incoming Rural Health Opportunities Program applicants, and organized an annual awards ceremony for all health professions students.“I see many of my former students in their professions and it’s amazing all of these people are going to go into the world to make it a better place and I got to be a part of it,” she said.She is working at the Pine Ridge Job Corps south of Chadron. She and her husband, Lorin, who works in maintenance, plan to spend more time with their grandchildren, daughter in North Dakota, and son in South Dakota. She also plans to continue genealogy work and taking photos of regional headstones and uploading them to family history websites to assist other genealogists.Dr. Michael LeiteWhen Leite was hired at Chadron State College in 1996, he said he inherited a shattered mammoth skull glued to the floor of an abandoned museum.His colleagues presented him with a sort of mandate, accompanied by the can-do spirit that still imbues the faculty: bring back the program and the museum. Now, after 28 years of working to meet that challenge, Leite will retire following the academic year.Throughout his tenure at CSC, Leite tried to avoid being confined by the classroom. He re-established the Eleanor Barbour Cook Museum of Geology, an endeavor that revitalized the college’s geology museum and opened its exhibits to the public.Together with his colleagues, he spearheaded summer field trips to places of interdisciplinary interest, from the desert and Pacific Coast to the rugged terrains of the Canadian Rockies and volcanoes of Costa Rica. Leite’s contributions to curriculum development were impactful, notably his shared role in creating the comprehensive major in Physical Science that provided students with diverse pathways in Physics, Chemistry, and Geoscience.In 2013, he embarked on redesigning the Geoscience program to offer it in a predominantly online format, supplemented by immersive summer field camps. This innovative approach both expanded access to geoscience education and showed how CSC could respond to changing student demographics by embracing emerging technologies.Leite is committed to the strong roles community engagement with science can play in environmental stewardship. He piloted ongoing monitoring of water resources in the Chadron Creek watershed, leading to funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and participation of a student team in the People, Prosperity, and the Planet design competition in Washington DC. This outreach expanded in recent years to a statewide collaboration with the UNL Water Center’s Know Your Well program. Additionally, he has served on the board of the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota, for 27 years.In recognition of his teaching and scholarly contributions, Leite received numerous accolades, including the Teaching Excellence Award from Chadron State College and the Nebraska State Colleges Teaching Excellence Award. His mentorship spawned numerous student internships and research projects with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.Leite said he hopes he leaves a legacy of dedication to exploration, education, and environmental advocacy that will inspire future generations of scholars and stewardsof the Earth.Dr. Jim PowellPowell, Chadron State College’s Vice President for Academic Affairs since 2020, will retire at the end of June.“Choosing to work at such a student-centered and remarkable institution like Chadron State College has been a career highlight for me,” said Powell, who joined CSC as a Dean in 2015.Powell helped shepherd the institution through its successful four-year affirmation review through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), worked to establish the college’s Quality Initiative for HLC, and assisted with programmatic accreditation. He was also heavily involved with strategic planning and he chaired many committees on campus.Powell also supported the development of new programs, such as nutrition and dietetics, a master’s degree in athletic training, focus areas for the MBA, the expansion of the para-professional teacher certification, an educational leadership program in Alaska, and the creation of an unmanned aerial systems certificate.Powell was on the job for about eight weeks when the college decided to pivot to remote instruction during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic and he was instrumental in helping facilitate the change in course delivery.“I had the amazing chance to work with a lot of talented people,” Powell said.Prior to being name the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Powell was the Dean of Professional Studies and Applied Sciences from 2015 to 2020. Powell, who received both his bachelor’s degree in English Education and his master’s in Linguistics with a specialization in Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages from Ball State University, began his teaching career as a middle school teacher in Indiana. He earned a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University and worked as an Assistant Professor at Ball State in Muncie, Indiana, for 13 years.After Ball State, Powell worked at the University of Alaska-Anchorage for six years as Professor and Chair of Teaching and Learning before becoming a Professor and Director of the School of Education at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan. He worked at Ferris State for three years before joining CSC’s administration.Powell and his wife Karla, have two adult sons and four grandchildren. The couple is looking forward to his retirement.“Karla and I plan to travel both within the United States and abroad, and spending time with children and grandchildren is very high on the list,” he said. “Finally, a lot of fishing and woodworking are hopefully in the future.”Joel R. SmithSmith, who served as Chadron State College’s Athletic Director for more than a decade, retired in early 2024. During his time at CSC, Smith oversaw the construction of the Chicoine Center, a Track and Field Complex, and Beebe Stadium, as well as initiating an annual scholarship banquet, When Eagles Dare.“Chadron State College has been a wonderful place to work and live,” Smith said. “We were able to accomplish a fair amount during my time at CSC and I’m proud of everything the student-athletes, coaches, and teams accomplished.”Smith’s entire career was spent in the athletic sphere. He was the commissioner of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference for 12 years prior to joining CSC, and worked as the director of athletics at Fort Lewis College and the assistant athletic director at Metropolitan State University of Denver.Smith was active within the NCAA, serving on regional advisory and championship committees.He was the chair of the NCAA West Regional Baseball Committee, a member of the Division II Championships Committee and D-II Television Task Force, and served as President of the Division II Athletic Directors Association. He was also the vice president of the Division II Collegiate Commissioners Association and president of the Colorado Chapter of the National Football Foundation. He also coached numerous youth sporting events and was the Cubmaster of Cub Scout Pack 217 in Monument, Colorado.Smith was born in Canon City, Colorado, where his grandparents owned a dairy. Smith’s father helped with the development of power plants and the family lived in Washington for a few years when he was a youth before they moved back to Colorado.While Smith was at Metro State, he met and married his wife, Catherine, who grew up in the Denver area. The couple has six children: Timothy, Hannah, Andrew, Daniel, Sara and Joshua.

CSC hosts annual employee appreciation luncheon 

Five years ago this week, blizzards and floods caused the most widespread natural disaster in Nebraska’s history. The floods claimed lives and caused billions of dollars in damages across the state. Disaster declarations were issued in 84 of our 93 counties, 104 cities and villages, and 5 tribes. On March 14, 2019, 3,300 Nebraska highway miles were impassable due to severe weather. Thousands of homes and businesses were lost.

As usual, we saw countless Nebraskans stepping up to help their neighbors. We saw the grit, resilience, resourcefulness, and generosity that make our state special. Nebraskans rescued residents and pets. They coordinated hay drop-offs, provided meals and shelter, and cleaned up debris. We raised money for those who had lost everything. We created the Flood Heroes initiative to recognize those who saved lives.

I was especially proud of our Nebraska National Guard. They rescued 112 people. They performed 66 helicopter hoist rescues. They drove nearly 45,000 miles and put in 335 hours of flight time to keep Nebraskans safe.

Government agencies need to prioritize people and provide excellent service, especially after natural disasters. As Governor, I took an all-of-government approach to make sure no red tape was in the way of the response or the recovery. I waived hauling requirements and suspended requirements for trip permits for relief vehicles. I created a housing task force to help displaced Nebraskans find new homes.

I also worked with other Midwestern Governors to demand better customer service of federal agencies. The 2011 floods demonstrated the vulnerability of Offutt Air Force Base, prompting efforts to raise its levees. Yet delays in the permitting process meant important levee upgrades weren’t started before the floods hit again in 2019. It likely cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars. That’s unacceptable.

Red tape shouldn’t prevent states from rebuilding and improving protections. I’m proud of how we streamlined processes and improved customer service when I was Governor. I wanted to serve as your Senator to bring those same successes to Washington, D.C. Recently, I introduced bipartisan legislation with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) to do just that. Our Flood Protection and Infrastructure Resilience Act will improve flood protection and strengthen agricultural communities across the country.

Our bill has three components. First, it would make long-term flood resilience a priority for the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program. Right now, EWP assistance cannot be used to improve protection above what existed before a flood occurred. Those rules make it difficult for entities to re-build in a way that reduces damage from repeat or future disasters. Our bill allows those investments in resilience to be smarter and more cost-effective.

Second, our bill would allow the Secretary of Agriculture to provide an increased federal cost share for certain grants to rehabilitate aging watershed dams. Many rural communities can’t compete for a high local funding match requirement. It keeps them from applying for funding that could help rehabilitate aged dams leaving agricultural and rural communities at a higher risk. Our bill increases the federal cost share to as much as 90%. This would make it easier for local partners to access federal dollars to help rehabilitate aging watershed projects.

Finally, our bill would elevate flood protection as a priority in the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). In 2021, farmers reported $685.9 million in losses to flooding and hurricanes. However, none of the five major agriculture conservation programs mention flood prevention or mitigation as a key purpose. Our bill would formally add prevention and mitigation as a priority. This would make sure the program better assists producers, communities, and other stakeholders.

Cutting red tape is good common-sense. By passing our bill, we can help communities not just recover from disasters, but reduce future damage as well.

My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us anytime by phone at 202-224-4224 or on my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>.

By Sen. Pete RickettsFive years ago this week, blizzards and floods caused the most widespread natural disaster in Nebraska’s history. The floods claimed lives and caused billions of dollars in damages across the state. Disaster declarations were issued in 84 of our 93 counties, 104 cities and villages, and 5 tribes. On March 14, 2019, 3,300 Nebraska highway miles were impassable due to severe weather. Thousands of homes and businesses were lost.As usual, we saw countless Nebraskans stepping up to help their neighbors. We saw the grit, resilience, resourcefulness, and generosity that make our state special. Nebraskans rescued residents and pets. They coordinated hay drop-offs, provided meals and shelter, and cleaned up debris. We raised money for those who had lost everything. We created the Flood Heroes initiative to recognize those who saved lives.I was especially proud of our Nebraska National Guard. They rescued 112 people. They performed 66 helicopter hoist rescues. They drove nearly 45,000 miles and put in 335 hours of flight time to keep Nebraskans safe.Government agencies need to prioritize people and provide excellent service, especially after natural disasters. As Governor, I took an all-of-government approach to make sure no red tape was in the way of the response or the recovery. I waived hauling requirements and suspended requirements for trip permits for relief vehicles. I created a housing task force to help displaced Nebraskans find new homes.I also worked with other Midwestern Governors to demand better customer service of federal agencies. The 2011 floods demonstrated the vulnerability of Offutt Air Force Base, prompting efforts to raise its levees. Yet delays in the permitting process meant important levee upgrades weren’t started before the floods hit again in 2019. It likely cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars. That’s unacceptable.Red tape shouldn’t prevent states from rebuilding and improving protections. I’m proud of how we streamlined processes and improved customer service when I was Governor. I wanted to serve as your Senator to bring those same successes to Washington, D.C. Recently, I introduced bipartisan legislation with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) to do just that. Our Flood Protection and Infrastructure Resilience Act will improve flood protection and strengthen agricultural communities across the country.Our bill has three components. First, it would make long-term flood resilience a priority for the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program. Right now, EWP assistance cannot be used to improve protection above what existed before a flood occurred. Those rules make it difficult for entities to re-build in a way that reduces damage from repeat or future disasters. Our bill allows those investments in resilience to be smarter and more cost-effective.Second, our bill would allow the Secretary of Agriculture to provide an increased federal cost share for certain grants to rehabilitate aging watershed dams. Many rural communities can’t compete for a high local funding match requirement. It keeps them from applying for funding that could help rehabilitate aged dams leaving agricultural and rural communities at a higher risk. Our bill increases the federal cost share to as much as 90%. This would make it easier for local partners to access federal dollars to help rehabilitate aging watershed projects.Finally, our bill would elevate flood protection as a priority in the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). In 2021, farmers reported $685.9 million in losses to flooding and hurricanes. However, none of the five major agriculture conservation programs mention flood prevention or mitigation as a key purpose. Our bill would formally add prevention and mitigation as a priority. This would make sure the program better assists producers, communities, and other stakeholders.Cutting red tape is good common-sense. By passing our bill, we can help communities not just recover from disasters, but reduce future damage as well.My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us anytime by phone at 202-224-4224 or on my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>.

Senator Ricketts’ Weekly Column: Prioritizing Flood Prevention

Alliance, NE – Preschool through second grade are invited to Search for Little Blue Peep at the Alliance Public Library during library hours from March 18 through 30 with one prize per day and one prize per child.

For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

By Alliance Public LibraryAlliance, NE – Preschool through second grade are invited to Search for Little Blue Peep at the Alliance Public Library during library hours from March 18 through 30 with one prize per day and one prize per child.For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

Search for Little Blue Peep at Alliance Public Library

The Huskers will face No. 2 seed Illinois in the Big Ten semifinals on Saturday at approximately 1:30 p.m., or 25 minutes following the conclusion of the Noon semifinal between No. 1 seed Purdue&nbsp; and No. 5 seed Wisconsin.

Saturday's game will air on CBS and Husker Sports Network radio affiliates. Nebraska will be appearing in its first-ever Big Ten Tournament semifinal and the first conference tournament semifinal for the program since 2006 (Big 12 vs. Kansas).&nbsp;

The Huskers (23-9) came out on fire, connecting on 12-of-20 (60.0 percent) 3-pointers in the first half to race to a 50-27 lead at halftime - the second game in a row Nebraska scored 50 first-half points. Entering Friday's game, Nebraska's record for most 3-pointers in a conference tournament game was 11 vs. Maryland in 2016. The Huskers beat that in the first half alone on their way to finishing the game 14-of-32 (43.8 percent) from 3. Nebraska shot 50.0 percent overall from the field and held Indiana to 35.3 percent.&nbsp;

Keisei Tominaga scored 23 points and registered a career-high five assists. He hit 4-of-7 from 3-point range. Brice Williams also scored 23 points and hit 4-of-6 from distance and was a perfect 9-of-9 from the free throw line. Jamarques Lawrence added 15 points and was 3-of-4 from behind the arc. Juwan Gary also reached double figures with 11 points and grabbed six rebounds.&nbsp;

Williams scored eight of the Huskers' first 10 points, including two 3-pointers. Indiana (19-14) held a 15-13 lead at the under-12 media timeout, but a triple by Lawrence and back-to-back 3s by Williams helped the Huskers go up 22-17. Tominaga then drove for a layup and hit a 3-pointer to make it 27-17 at the 6:45 mark, capping a 14-2 Husker run.&nbsp;

After Indiana pulled within 33-27, Tominaga fired up the Target Center crowd with back-to-back triples from the top of the arc to give Nebraska a 39-27 lead and spark a 17-0 run to end the half. After Gary drained a pair of free throws, Lawrence and Gary hit back-to-back corner 3s, and Tominaga closed out the half with a 30-footer, his fourth 3-pointer of the half that gave him a team-high 18 points at the break.&nbsp;

The Huskers led by 25 at 54-29 in the second half before Indiana cut it to 56-38 after a 9-2 spurt. But that was as close as the Hoosiers would get, as NU built the lead to as many as 33 points (88-55) before closing out the 93-66 victory.&nbsp;

Josiah Allick led the Big Red on the boards with nine rebounds to go with seven points. Rienk Mast added four points, eight rebounds and seven assists.&nbsp;

By NU AthleticsThe Huskers will face No. 2 seed Illinois in the Big Ten semifinals on Saturday at approximately 1:30 p.m., or 25 minutes following the conclusion of the Noon semifinal between No. 1 seed Purdue&nbsp; and No. 5 seed Wisconsin.Saturday's game will air on CBS and Husker Sports Network radio affiliates. Nebraska will be appearing in its first-ever Big Ten Tournament semifinal and the first conference tournament semifinal for the program since 2006 (Big 12 vs. Kansas).&nbsp;The Huskers (23-9) came out on fire, connecting on 12-of-20 (60.0 percent) 3-pointers in the first half to race to a 50-27 lead at halftime - the second game in a row Nebraska scored 50 first-half points. Entering Friday's game, Nebraska's record for most 3-pointers in a conference tournament game was 11 vs. Maryland in 2016. The Huskers beat that in the first half alone on their way to finishing the game 14-of-32 (43.8 percent) from 3. Nebraska shot 50.0 percent overall from the field and held Indiana to 35.3 percent.&nbsp;Keisei Tominaga scored 23 points and registered a career-high five assists. He hit 4-of-7 from 3-point range. Brice Williams also scored 23 points and hit 4-of-6 from distance and was a perfect 9-of-9 from the free throw line. Jamarques Lawrence added 15 points and was 3-of-4 from behind the arc. Juwan Gary also reached double figures with 11 points and grabbed six rebounds.&nbsp;Williams scored eight of the Huskers' first 10 points, including two 3-pointers. Indiana (19-14) held a 15-13 lead at the under-12 media timeout, but a triple by Lawrence and back-to-back 3s by Williams helped the Huskers go up 22-17. Tominaga then drove for a layup and hit a 3-pointer to make it 27-17 at the 6:45 mark, capping a 14-2 Husker run.&nbsp;After Indiana pulled within 33-27, Tominaga fired up the Target Center crowd with back-to-back triples from the top of the arc to give Nebraska a 39-27 lead and spark a 17-0 run to end the half. After Gary drained a pair of free throws, Lawrence and Gary hit back-to-back corner 3s, and Tominaga closed out the half with a 30-footer, his fourth 3-pointer of the half that gave him a team-high 18 points at the break.&nbsp;The Huskers led by 25 at 54-29 in the second half before Indiana cut it to 56-38 after a 9-2 spurt. But that was as close as the Hoosiers would get, as NU built the lead to as many as 33 points (88-55) before closing out the 93-66 victory.&nbsp;Josiah Allick led the Big Red on the boards with nine rebounds to go with seven points. Rienk Mast added four points, eight rebounds and seven assists.&nbsp;Nebraska Notes<ul>
 <li>Nebraska won its 23rd game of the 2023-24 season, marking the second-most wins in school history.</li><li>Nebraska’s victory marked its first win in a Big Ten Tournament contest since 2019, and tomorrow will be Nebraska’s first-ever appearance in the Big Ten semifinals. The Huskers were last in a conference tournament semifinal in 2006 when the Huskers reached the Big 12 semifinals.</li><li>Nebraska’s 27-point victory marked its largest margin of victory in a Big Ten Tournament game, surpassing a 17-point win over Rutgers in 2016 (89-72). It was also its largest in any conference tournament game in Nebraska history, bettering a 23-point win over Iowa State in 1983 (94-71) in a first-round Big Eight tournament game in Lincoln.&nbsp;</li><li>The win completed a three-game sweep of Indiana, marking the first time Nebraska has defeated a team three times in one season since sweeping three games from Rutgers in 2015-16.</li><li>Nebraska connected on 14-of-32 3-pointers in the game, marking its 16th game this season with at least 10 3-pointers, including all three matchups with Indiana. The Huskers connected on a total of 40&nbsp;3-pointers in three games against the Hoosiers this season, with at least 12 in each game.</li><li>Nebraska’s 14 3-pointers tied a season high (four times).</li><li>The 14 3-pointers are the most Nebraska has made in a conference tournament game in school history. The previous high was 11 against Maryland in 2016 (31 att.). Nebraska eclipsed that total before halftime with 12 first-half 3-pointers.</li><li>Nebraska scored 50 points in the first half to take a 50-27 halftime lead. It marked the Huskers’ second straight game with 50 first-half points after leading Michigan 50-43 at halftime last Sunday in Ann Arbor.</li><li>Nebraska held Indiana to 35.3 percent shooting in the game, marking the 12th straight game Nebraska has limited the opposition to 43 percent or less.</li><li>Keisei Tominaga scored 23 points, including 18 before halftime. Tonight’s game marked Tominaga’s seventh 20-point game of the season and the 17th of his Nebraska career.</li><li>Tominaga made 4-of-7 3-pointers, including 4-of-6 before halftime. It marked his seventh game this season with at least four 3-pointers.</li><li>Tominaga finished with a career-high five assists, bettering his previous high of four on two occasions earlier this sea­son.</li><li>Brice Williams’ 23 points were his most since scoring a season-high 25 points against Oregon State on Nov. 18. It was his third 20-point game of the season.</li><li>Williams had four 3-pointers in the game, all in the first half. The four 3-pointers tied a career-high.&nbsp;</li><li>Jamarques Lawrence scored 15 points on 5-of-6 shooting, including 3-of-4 from the 3-point line. It was Lawrence’s 10th double-figure scoring game of the season with five of those since Feb. 7. Lawrence made at least three 3-pointers for the fifth time this season, including two against Indiana.</li>
 </ul>

Huskers cruise to Big Ten Semi after win over IU

MARCH 15, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;—&nbsp;&nbsp;March 9, 2024.&nbsp; Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol have conducted alcohol compliance checks in Box Butte County.

During the afternoon and evening hours on Saturday March 9, 2024, investigators conducted alcohol compliance checks in Box Butte County. This project was supported by grant #1848 form the Panhandle Public Health District.

In total, 24 businesses were checked.&nbsp; One of those businesses sold alcohol to a minor for a compliance rate of 95.8%.&nbsp; The business checked the minor’s identification before sale.

The Business that failed the compliance check was:

The businesses included convivence stores, grocery stores, restaurants, liquor stores and bars.

Businesses that sell alcohol to minors are referred to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission.&nbsp; Clerks who sell alcohol to minors are cited for procuring alcohol for a minor.

By Nebraska State PatrolMARCH 15, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;—&nbsp;&nbsp;March 9, 2024.&nbsp; Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol have conducted alcohol compliance checks in Box Butte County.During the afternoon and evening hours on Saturday March 9, 2024, investigators conducted alcohol compliance checks in Box Butte County. This project was supported by grant #1848 form the Panhandle Public Health District.In total, 24 businesses were checked.&nbsp; One of those businesses sold alcohol to a minor for a compliance rate of 95.8%.&nbsp; The business checked the minor’s identification before sale.The Business that failed the compliance check was:Safeway 549 - AllianceThe businesses included convivence stores, grocery stores, restaurants, liquor stores and bars.Businesses that sell alcohol to minors are referred to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission.&nbsp; Clerks who sell alcohol to minors are cited for procuring alcohol for a minor.

Alliance business fails NSP alcohol compliance check 

United Way of Western Nebraska Executive Director Karen Benzel was a guest on the Post Podcast on Thursday to discuss UWWN achieving fundraising goal in their annual campaign. 

Here is the conversation with Panhandle Post News Director Alex Benzegala.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710525159964.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>United Way of Western Nebraska Executive Director Karen Benzel was a guest on the Post Podcast on Thursday to discuss UWWN achieving fundraising goal in their annual campaign. Here is the conversation with Panhandle Post News Director Alex Benzegala.<div><iframe title="United Way of Western Nebraska reaches campaign goal" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9tjvi-15aeb99-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

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