POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 11/28/22

Studio B in Scottsbluff is your one-stop-shop for gifts this holiday season. They are located at 1715 Broadway. 

"We have been open as a gift store for about four-years now," Studio B owner Priscilla Sandoz said. "We're approaching the four year mark. And we were trying to drive some foot traffic for downtown. It's been a challenge, of course with COVID and everything else. So, we started a little stamp card contest that has really been a lot of fun. We did it last year for the first year, kind of tried it out. And we grew it this year to about double. We're looking forward to a great holiday. We've got it already decked out."

Studio B offers a unique array of clothing, gifts, teas and more. 

"I offer some light clothing, like some top layer," Sandoz said. "We also have a lot of tea, soaps, food items like soups, and I have some fantastic balsamic vinegars right now. We sell coffee cups. We have some Scottsbluff things. So, some local things that are good hostess gifts."

Panhandle Post asked Sandoz to describe her favorite thing about working at Studio B.

"I think the most fun is finding what the customer needs, what they're looking for, for a gift or for something else," Sandoz said. "They might come in having no idea, they just know that they need something. So, trying to figure that out together and get them something that's unique, something they haven't seen in another location before. That's really important to me."

You can find out more about Studio B by clicking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/StudioBBroadway/">HERE</a>&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669656757609.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Studio B in Scottsbluff is your one-stop-shop for gifts this holiday season. They are located at 1715 Broadway. "We have been open as a gift store for about four-years now," Studio B owner Priscilla Sandoz said. "We're approaching the four year mark. And we were trying to drive some foot traffic for downtown. It's been a challenge, of course with COVID and everything else. So, we started a little stamp card contest that has really been a lot of fun. We did it last year for the first year, kind of tried it out. And we grew it this year to about double. We're looking forward to a great holiday. We've got it already decked out."Studio B offers a unique array of clothing, gifts, teas and more. "I offer some light clothing, like some top layer," Sandoz said. "We also have a lot of tea, soaps, food items like soups, and I have some fantastic balsamic vinegars right now. We sell coffee cups. We have some Scottsbluff things. So, some local things that are good hostess gifts."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669656777587.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Panhandle Post asked Sandoz to describe her favorite thing about working at Studio B."I think the most fun is finding what the customer needs, what they're looking for, for a gift or for something else," Sandoz said. "They might come in having no idea, they just know that they need something. So, trying to figure that out together and get them something that's unique, something they haven't seen in another location before. That's really important to me."You can find out more about Studio B by clicking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/StudioBBroadway/">HERE</a>&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669656790444.jpeg" alt="" />
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POST PODCAST: AHS One-Act Play Team

By&nbsp;Scotts Bluff National Monument

GERING, NE - Christmas is coming! What better way to start preparations than the way our ancestors did in the nineteenth century? 

Scotts Bluff National Monument, Legacy of the Plains Museum, and Chimney Rock National Historic Site will be hosting a variety of activities that evoke Christmases of the past on Saturday, December 3, 2022. All three events will be FREE! 

“Christmas on the Prairie” at Scotts Bluff National Monument offers visitors a chance to make nineteenth century style holiday ornaments from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children and adults will have a chance to make a variety of old-style ornaments, including: popcorn strings, paper lanterns and stars, dough ornaments to paint, as well as corn husk dolls. Enjoy refreshments and a 15% discount on bookstore items courtesy of our cooperating association Black Hills Parks and Forests Association. 

At Legacy of the Plains Museum, “High Plains Christmas” will give people an opportunity to enjoy some outdoor and indoor fun from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ride on a hay rack, build a Christmas ornament, write a letter to Santa to send via Pony Express, enjoy live music, and purchase our delicious soups and hot chocolate.  High Plains Christmas kicks off our “Trees Along the Trail Contest” and “Yuletide Lights”.  The tree contest consists of Christmas trees decorated by community non-profit organizations competing for your votes. The ballots will be available for $1.00 each. This is the kickoff of the event which will continue through December 23rd. The contest benefits the museum and area charities. 

Chimney Rock National Historic Site will celebrate “Christmas at the Rock” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors will have a chance to play games and enjoy holiday treats and music.  

The Scotts Bluff National Monument visitor center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The summit road is open (weather and conditions permitting) from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.  All Monument trails are open from sunrise until sunset. Additional information about Scotts Bluff National Monument programs and schedules can be obtained at the visitor center, by calling 308-436-9700 or by visiting our website at http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps.  

By&nbsp;Scotts Bluff National MonumentGERING, NE - Christmas is coming! What better way to start preparations than the way our ancestors did in the nineteenth century? Scotts Bluff National Monument, Legacy of the Plains Museum, and Chimney Rock National Historic Site will be hosting a variety of activities that evoke Christmases of the past on Saturday, December 3, 2022. All three events will be FREE! “Christmas on the Prairie” at Scotts Bluff National Monument offers visitors a chance to make nineteenth century style holiday ornaments from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children and adults will have a chance to make a variety of old-style ornaments, including: popcorn strings, paper lanterns and stars, dough ornaments to paint, as well as corn husk dolls. Enjoy refreshments and a 15% discount on bookstore items courtesy of our cooperating association Black Hills Parks and Forests Association. At Legacy of the Plains Museum, “High Plains Christmas” will give people an opportunity to enjoy some outdoor and indoor fun from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ride on a hay rack, build a Christmas ornament, write a letter to Santa to send via Pony Express, enjoy live music, and purchase our delicious soups and hot chocolate. High Plains Christmas kicks off our “Trees Along the Trail Contest” and “Yuletide Lights”. The tree contest consists of Christmas trees decorated by community non-profit organizations competing for your votes. The ballots will be available for $1.00 each. This is the kickoff of the event which will continue through December 23rd. The contest benefits the museum and area charities. Chimney Rock National Historic Site will celebrate “Christmas at the Rock” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors will have a chance to play games and enjoy holiday treats and music. The Scotts Bluff National Monument visitor center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The summit road is open (weather and conditions permitting) from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. All Monument trails are open from sunrise until sunset. Additional information about Scotts Bluff National Monument programs and schedules can be obtained at the visitor center, by calling 308-436-9700 or by visiting our website at http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps.

Christmas on the Prairie to be held at Scotts Bluff National Monument

TOKYO, Japan- This week, Governor Pete Ricketts is leading a trade mission to Japan to promote Nebraska’s quality ag products and pitch Nebraska as a top destination for international investment.

The Governor and trade delegation will meet with government officials, promote Nebraska beef, pork,&nbsp;ethanol, and other ag products, and encourage Japanese businesses to invest in Nebraska.&nbsp; Delegates on the mission include representatives from ag businesses, state commodity organizations, the Nebraska Farm Bureau, the Department of Agriculture (NDA), and the Department of Economic Development (DED).

This week’s agenda includes meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, and the U.S. Ambassador to Japan. The Governor will discuss the revised beef safeguard mechanism and the benefits of Nebraska ethanol.

Nebraska is the first state to visit Japan after its legislature approved new beef tariff trigger levels.&nbsp; The new safeguard mechanism will make it less likely that U.S. beef exports will reach levels that trigger higher tariffs, and it provides the State with an increased opportunity to meet Japan’s growing demand for quality beef.

Nebraska ag producers and the NDA will also participate in the U.S. Food Product Showcase, where a variety of Nebraska value-added ag products will be marketed to buyers in the Japanese food industry.

Additionally, the Governor and delegation will meet with representatives from several Japanese companies throughout the week. At the events, Governor Ricketts will highlight Nebraska’s hardworking people, longstanding practices in sustainability, pro-growth climate, and central location.&nbsp;

This is the Governor’s second trip to Japan in November. Earlier this month, he went on a personal visit to receive the Order of the Rising Sun Award, Gold and Silver Star for his&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-ricketts-receive-order-rising-sun-award-strengthening-nebraska-japan-relationship">work to strengthen the Nebraska-Japan relationship.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

This is Governor Ricketts’ fourth trade mission to Japan (2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022). &nbsp;Cultivating and maintaining a relationship with Japanese government and businesses has helped grow Nebraska’s ag footprint.&nbsp;&nbsp;Japan is Nebraska’s largest market for pork and 2nd&nbsp;largest for beef, the latter of which has seen annual sales to Japan rise by $215 million, an 88% increase since 2015. &nbsp;Additionally,&nbsp;Japan is the 3rd largest&nbsp;export market for U.S. corn, and exports in 2021 were up 57.7% versus 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp;Japan is also an emerging market for ethanol, with the Japanese government committing this year to double the blend rate of ethanol in their gasoline.

Nebraska has a vibrant Japanese community, and Japan’s investments in the state are a valued part of our economy.&nbsp; A full profile of Nebraska’s trade relationship with Japan can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://nda.nebraska.gov/promotion/profiles/Japan.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1560600869383.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Governor RickettsTOKYO, Japan- This week, Governor Pete Ricketts is leading a trade mission to Japan to promote Nebraska’s quality ag products and pitch Nebraska as a top destination for international investment.The Governor and trade delegation will meet with government officials, promote Nebraska beef, pork,&nbsp;ethanol, and other ag products, and encourage Japanese businesses to invest in Nebraska.&nbsp; Delegates on the mission include representatives from ag businesses, state commodity organizations, the Nebraska Farm Bureau, the Department of Agriculture (NDA), and the Department of Economic Development (DED).This week’s agenda includes meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, and the U.S. Ambassador to Japan. The Governor will discuss the revised beef safeguard mechanism and the benefits of Nebraska ethanol.Nebraska is the first state to visit Japan after its legislature approved new beef tariff trigger levels.&nbsp; The new safeguard mechanism will make it less likely that U.S. beef exports will reach levels that trigger higher tariffs, and it provides the State with an increased opportunity to meet Japan’s growing demand for quality beef.Nebraska ag producers and the NDA will also participate in the U.S. Food Product Showcase, where a variety of Nebraska value-added ag products will be marketed to buyers in the Japanese food industry.Additionally, the Governor and delegation will meet with representatives from several Japanese companies throughout the week. At the events, Governor Ricketts will highlight Nebraska’s hardworking people, longstanding practices in sustainability, pro-growth climate, and central location.&nbsp;This is the Governor’s second trip to Japan in November. Earlier this month, he went on a personal visit to receive the Order of the Rising Sun Award, Gold and Silver Star for his&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-ricketts-receive-order-rising-sun-award-strengthening-nebraska-japan-relationship">work to strengthen the Nebraska-Japan relationship.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;This is Governor Ricketts’ fourth trade mission to Japan (2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022). &nbsp;Cultivating and maintaining a relationship with Japanese government and businesses has helped grow Nebraska’s ag footprint.&nbsp;&nbsp;Japan is Nebraska’s largest market for pork and 2nd&nbsp;largest for beef, the latter of which has seen annual sales to Japan rise by $215 million, an 88% increase since 2015. &nbsp;Additionally,&nbsp;Japan is the 3rd largest&nbsp;export market for U.S. corn, and exports in 2021 were up 57.7% versus 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp;Japan is also an emerging market for ethanol, with the Japanese government committing this year to double the blend rate of ethanol in their gasoline.Nebraska has a vibrant Japanese community, and Japan’s investments in the state are a valued part of our economy.&nbsp; A full profile of Nebraska’s trade relationship with Japan can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://nda.nebraska.gov/promotion/profiles/Japan.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here.</a>

Gov. Ricketts begins trade mission in Japan

Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area will host the monthly Wildcat Tales preschool program Dec. 13.

The program Winter Wonderland, which will explore ways animals prepare for winter, will meet at the Nature Center at 10 a.m. Mountain time. There will be a lesson plan, story and hands-on activity specifically targeted for children ages 2-6 years.

The program is free, but a vehicle park entry permit is required.&nbsp;For more information contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

By Nebraska Game and Parks&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587140447752.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.com&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.com&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area will host the monthly Wildcat Tales preschool program Dec. 13.The program Winter Wonderland, which will explore ways animals prepare for winter, will meet at the Nature Center at 10 a.m. Mountain time. There will be a lesson plan, story and hands-on activity specifically targeted for children ages 2-6 years.The program is free, but a vehicle park entry permit is required.&nbsp;For more information contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Wildcat Tales preschool program is Dec. 13

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska agriculture officials say another 1.8 million chickens must be killed after bird flu was found on a farm in the latest sign that the outbreak that has already prompted the slaughter of more than 50 million birds nationwide continues to spread.

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture said Saturday that the state's 13th case of bird flu was found on an egg-laying farm in northeast Nebraska's Dixon County, about 120 miles (193 kilometers) north of Omaha, Nebraska..

Just like on other farms where bird flu has been found this year, all the chickens on the Nebraska farm&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-business-bird-flu-flu-animals-189a7c08d848047f00b3f7b5bec39e67">will be killed</a>&nbsp;to limit the spread of the disease. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says more than 52.3 million birds in 46 states — mostly chickens and turkeys on commercial farms — have been slaughtered as part of this year's outbreak.

Nebraska is second only to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-iowa-des-moines-flu-us-department-of-agriculture-822360c4db84ca9917ac615b760b2b53">Iowa’s 15.5 million birds killed</a>&nbsp;with 6.8 million birds now affected at 13 farms.

In most past bird flu outbreaks the virus&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-flu-prices-animals-1ec0f5a8e5485300fe117f87f8470f06">largely died off</a>&nbsp;during the summer, but this year's version found a way to linger and started to make a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-minnesota-animals-flu-animal-2f02b2d35e82feb05273d9a72e898170">resurgence</a>&nbsp;this fall with more than 6 million birds killed in September.

The virus is primarily spread by wild birds as they migrate across the country. Wild birds can often carry the disease without showing symptoms. The virus spreads through droppings or the nasal discharge of an infected bird, which can contaminate dust and soil.

Commercial farms have taken&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-business-iowa-agriculture-f5a5c6fbf1d6b551413fb249086fdbec">a number of steps</a>&nbsp;to prevent the virus from infecting their flocks, including requiring workers to change clothes before entering barns and sanitizing trucks as they enter the farm, but the disease can be difficult to control.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-animals-flu-bird-2e2c3be77c8f8fa318ed0877d18bde64">Zoos</a>&nbsp;have also taken precautions and closed some exhibits to protect their birds.

Officials say there is little risk to human health from the virus because human cases are extremely rare and the infected birds aren't allowed to enter the nation's food supply. Plus, any viruses will be killed by properly cooking poultry to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

But the bird flu outbreak has contributed to the rising prices of chicken and turkey along with the soaring cost of feed and fuel.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska agriculture officials say another 1.8 million chickens must be killed after bird flu was found on a farm in the latest sign that the outbreak that has already prompted the slaughter of more than 50 million birds nationwide continues to spread.The Nebraska Department of Agriculture said Saturday that the state's 13th case of bird flu was found on an egg-laying farm in northeast Nebraska's Dixon County, about 120 miles (193 kilometers) north of Omaha, Nebraska..Just like on other farms where bird flu has been found this year, all the chickens on the Nebraska farm&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-business-bird-flu-flu-animals-189a7c08d848047f00b3f7b5bec39e67">will be killed</a>&nbsp;to limit the spread of the disease. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says more than 52.3 million birds in 46 states — mostly chickens and turkeys on commercial farms — have been slaughtered as part of this year's outbreak.Nebraska is second only to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-iowa-des-moines-flu-us-department-of-agriculture-822360c4db84ca9917ac615b760b2b53">Iowa’s 15.5 million birds killed</a>&nbsp;with 6.8 million birds now affected at 13 farms.In most past bird flu outbreaks the virus&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-flu-prices-animals-1ec0f5a8e5485300fe117f87f8470f06">largely died off</a>&nbsp;during the summer, but this year's version found a way to linger and started to make a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-minnesota-animals-flu-animal-2f02b2d35e82feb05273d9a72e898170">resurgence</a>&nbsp;this fall with more than 6 million birds killed in September.The virus is primarily spread by wild birds as they migrate across the country. Wild birds can often carry the disease without showing symptoms. The virus spreads through droppings or the nasal discharge of an infected bird, which can contaminate dust and soil.Commercial farms have taken&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-business-iowa-agriculture-f5a5c6fbf1d6b551413fb249086fdbec">a number of steps</a>&nbsp;to prevent the virus from infecting their flocks, including requiring workers to change clothes before entering barns and sanitizing trucks as they enter the farm, but the disease can be difficult to control.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-animals-flu-bird-2e2c3be77c8f8fa318ed0877d18bde64">Zoos</a>&nbsp;have also taken precautions and closed some exhibits to protect their birds.Officials say there is little risk to human health from the virus because human cases are extremely rare and the infected birds aren't allowed to enter the nation's food supply. Plus, any viruses will be killed by properly cooking poultry to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.But the bird flu outbreak has contributed to the rising prices of chicken and turkey along with the soaring cost of feed and fuel.

Bird flu prompts slaughter of 1.8M chickens in Nebraska

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY - North Platte, NE

The next snow producer is on its way, and is expected to arrive tomorrow. A strong cold front will bring an end to the strong winds in place tonight through Monday morning, but bring another round of snow and very cold temperatures.

Expect snow to start in the mountains early Monday, and then spread to the valleys west of I-25 through the day. Areas east of I-25 can expect snow to start filling in Monday evening through the night. Light snow will linger into Tuesday morning, but should clear out by the afternoon hours.

The attached graphic shows the probabilities for 2" and 6" of snow across our area.

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY - North Platte, NEThe next snow producer is on its way, and is expected to arrive tomorrow. A strong cold front will bring an end to the strong winds in place tonight through Monday morning, but bring another round of snow and very cold temperatures.Expect snow to start in the mountains early Monday, and then spread to the valleys west of I-25 through the day. Areas east of I-25 can expect snow to start filling in Monday evening through the night. Light snow will linger into Tuesday morning, but should clear out by the afternoon hours.The attached graphic shows the probabilities for 2" and 6" of snow across our area.<figure>
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Snow, cold front moves into Panhandle 

GENOA, Neb. (AP) — The bodies of more than 80 Native American children are buried at the former Genoa Indian Industrial School in central Nebraska.

But for decades, the location of the student cemetery has been a mystery, lost over time after the school closed in 1931 and memories faded of the once-busy campus that sprawled over 640 acres in the tiny community of Genoa.

That mystery may soon be solved thanks to efforts by researchers who pored over century-old documents and maps, examined land with specially trained dogs and made use of ground-penetrating radar in search of the lost graves.

“These children, in my opinion, were disrespected, and they were throwaway children that no one talked about,” said Judi gaiashkibos, the executive director of the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs whose mother attended the school in the late 1920s. “They were hidden, buried under the ground, and it’s time to take the darkness away. Until we do that, we have not honored those children.”

The search for the graves comes as the federal government is in the midst of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-education-native-americans-cbd724ae4e423c788089ef98cec4315a">first-ever comprehensive examination</a>&nbsp;of the national system of more than 400 Native American boarding schools. The schools and additional privately funded institutions were part of an attempt to integrate Indigenous people into the white culture by separating children forcibly or by coercion from their families and cutting them off from their heritage.

The U.S. Interior Department, led by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-native-americans-cultures-congress-1052724fc31b28f7addae7f5b2e50830">Secretary Deb Haaland</a>, a member of Laguna Pueblo in New Mexico and the first Native American Cabinet secretary, released a report last spring that detailed the boarding school program and noted more than 500 deaths. That number is expected to increase significantly in a second Interior Department report, which will explore boarding school deaths and how the forced removal of children to the schools damaged Indigenous communities.

The federal investigation didn't prompt the work in Genoa but it has added new urgency to the effort.

If the Genoa graves are found, decisions about whether to commemorate them or consider disinterring the remains will be left to representatives of Native American tribes, but simply finding the cemetery will be an accomplishment for individuals who for years have sought to gain a greater understanding of the Nebraska school.

The Genoa Indian Industrial School opened in 1884 and at its height was home to nearly 600 students. In the decades it was open, more than 4,300 children lived there, making it one of the largest Native American schools in the country. The students were given a basic academic education and spent much of their time learning hands-on skills such as horse bridle-making for boys and sewing for girls that had limited value for a country in the midst of an industrial transformation.

The children typically&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-native-americans-south-dakota-762797ee44f94d06e2f7776599bef374">spent long, exhausting days</a>, rising as early as 4 a.m. for chores, followed by several hours of school before working the rest of the day in kitchens, workshops or out in the fields, said gaiashkibos. Discipline could be harsh, with even young&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/native-americans-oklahoma-city-cultures-e200ecdb445ee8ff0514d5a215a4058c">children facing beatings</a>&nbsp;for breaking rules.

“Absolutely, we know the children were living in fear," gaiashkibos said. “There were no hugs from mom or grandma. There were no songs sung. Everything was foreign to them."

Children from over 40 tribes were brought from as far away as Idaho and Maine to the school. The were forbidden from speaking their Native languages, their hair was cut — a traumatic experience given the cultural significance for many Native Americans of long hair — and they were required to wear uniforms.

This “forced incarceration” of children at a school hundreds an even thousands of miles away from their homes had a two-fold goal of crushing Native American cultures and aiding in the stealing of Native land, said Farina King, an associate professor at the University of Oklahoma who focuses on Native American studies.

“More than anything there was a clear agenda to cut the ties between their people, their homeland, their culture," said King, a member of the Navajo Nation whose father attended one of the boarding schools. “They wanted to get them away as far as they could.”

At Genoa, that typically meant taking a train that would stop at the school grounds, about 90 miles (145 kilometers) west of Omaha.

After the school closed, most of the larger buildings were demolished and the land sold for other uses. A two-story brick workshop that has been turned into a museum remains, as does a smokestack that towers over the community, but the gymnasium, multi-story classroom buildings and dormitories are long gone and it's hard to imagine a large school once existed in the small community.

The cemetery would have been forgotten too, if not for residents who for 30 years had been searching documents and the land around their community for the burial site. Their effort was given a boost about six years ago by the Genoa Indian School Digital Reconciliation Project, which included advisers from some of the tribes whose ancestors attended the school and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Based off newspaper clippings, superintendent’s records, one student's letter that described a cemetery and other documents, they determined at least 86 students died at the school. It's unclear whether close living conditions contributed to the deaths, but records indicate students most commonly died of diseases such as tuberculosis, typhoid and measles. There also was at least one death by accidental shooting and another due to a neck injury.

Researchers identified 49 of the children who died but have not been able to find names for 37 students. It's believed the bodies of a few children were returned to their families.

But while the researchers accounted for the deaths, they couldn't find where the children were buried.

Interest in bringing more professionals to help in Genoa grew after Canada announced in 2021 the discovery of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/canada-67da8a8af88efc91e6ffc64630796ec9">mass graves of Indigenous children</a>&nbsp;at residential schools, said Dave Williams, Nebraska’s state archeologist.

“We’ve heard from residents knowing there were burials nearby, knowing this was the Genoa school cemetery, but that precise location has been lost to time,” Williams said. “We’ve heard it’s in a few different locations but so far that hasn’t panned out.”

There were plenty of theories from residents and even former students, but it took study of maps and aerial photos to narrow down a few options. An initial effort to find remains using ground-penetrating radar wasn’t successful, but last summer an Iowa man volunteered to come to the site with dogs that are trained to detect the faint odor of decaying remains.

Two dogs separately signaled they smelled remains on a narrow piece of land sandwiched between railroad tracks, a cornfield and a canal that was dug soon after the boarding school closed. In late October and early November, a team affiliated with the National Park Service made two trips to the site and used different kinds of ground-penetrating radar in hopes of detecting what was beneath the soil.

The results of their examination should be available later in November.

To gaiashkibos, a member of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, thinking of the boarding school and searching for the cemetery brings an overwhelming sense of sadness. But she said finding the cemetery is an essential step in honoring the children and recognizing what they had to endure.

“To heal, we have to have answers and bring closure,” she said. “We need to know, where are those children?”

By Associated PressGENOA, Neb. (AP) — The bodies of more than 80 Native American children are buried at the former Genoa Indian Industrial School in central Nebraska.But for decades, the location of the student cemetery has been a mystery, lost over time after the school closed in 1931 and memories faded of the once-busy campus that sprawled over 640 acres in the tiny community of Genoa.That mystery may soon be solved thanks to efforts by researchers who pored over century-old documents and maps, examined land with specially trained dogs and made use of ground-penetrating radar in search of the lost graves.“These children, in my opinion, were disrespected, and they were throwaway children that no one talked about,” said Judi gaiashkibos, the executive director of the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs whose mother attended the school in the late 1920s. “They were hidden, buried under the ground, and it’s time to take the darkness away. Until we do that, we have not honored those children.”The search for the graves comes as the federal government is in the midst of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-education-native-americans-cbd724ae4e423c788089ef98cec4315a">first-ever comprehensive examination</a>&nbsp;of the national system of more than 400 Native American boarding schools. The schools and additional privately funded institutions were part of an attempt to integrate Indigenous people into the white culture by separating children forcibly or by coercion from their families and cutting them off from their heritage.The U.S. Interior Department, led by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-native-americans-cultures-congress-1052724fc31b28f7addae7f5b2e50830">Secretary Deb Haaland</a>, a member of Laguna Pueblo in New Mexico and the first Native American Cabinet secretary, released a report last spring that detailed the boarding school program and noted more than 500 deaths. That number is expected to increase significantly in a second Interior Department report, which will explore boarding school deaths and how the forced removal of children to the schools damaged Indigenous communities.The federal investigation didn't prompt the work in Genoa but it has added new urgency to the effort.If the Genoa graves are found, decisions about whether to commemorate them or consider disinterring the remains will be left to representatives of Native American tribes, but simply finding the cemetery will be an accomplishment for individuals who for years have sought to gain a greater understanding of the Nebraska school.The Genoa Indian Industrial School opened in 1884 and at its height was home to nearly 600 students. In the decades it was open, more than 4,300 children lived there, making it one of the largest Native American schools in the country. The students were given a basic academic education and spent much of their time learning hands-on skills such as horse bridle-making for boys and sewing for girls that had limited value for a country in the midst of an industrial transformation.The children typically&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-native-americans-south-dakota-762797ee44f94d06e2f7776599bef374">spent long, exhausting days</a>, rising as early as 4 a.m. for chores, followed by several hours of school before working the rest of the day in kitchens, workshops or out in the fields, said gaiashkibos. Discipline could be harsh, with even young&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/native-americans-oklahoma-city-cultures-e200ecdb445ee8ff0514d5a215a4058c">children facing beatings</a>&nbsp;for breaking rules.“Absolutely, we know the children were living in fear," gaiashkibos said. “There were no hugs from mom or grandma. There were no songs sung. Everything was foreign to them."Children from over 40 tribes were brought from as far away as Idaho and Maine to the school. The were forbidden from speaking their Native languages, their hair was cut — a traumatic experience given the cultural significance for many Native Americans of long hair — and they were required to wear uniforms.This “forced incarceration” of children at a school hundreds an even thousands of miles away from their homes had a two-fold goal of crushing Native American cultures and aiding in the stealing of Native land, said Farina King, an associate professor at the University of Oklahoma who focuses on Native American studies.“More than anything there was a clear agenda to cut the ties between their people, their homeland, their culture," said King, a member of the Navajo Nation whose father attended one of the boarding schools. “They wanted to get them away as far as they could.”At Genoa, that typically meant taking a train that would stop at the school grounds, about 90 miles (145 kilometers) west of Omaha.After the school closed, most of the larger buildings were demolished and the land sold for other uses. A two-story brick workshop that has been turned into a museum remains, as does a smokestack that towers over the community, but the gymnasium, multi-story classroom buildings and dormitories are long gone and it's hard to imagine a large school once existed in the small community.The cemetery would have been forgotten too, if not for residents who for 30 years had been searching documents and the land around their community for the burial site. Their effort was given a boost about six years ago by the Genoa Indian School Digital Reconciliation Project, which included advisers from some of the tribes whose ancestors attended the school and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Based off newspaper clippings, superintendent’s records, one student's letter that described a cemetery and other documents, they determined at least 86 students died at the school. It's unclear whether close living conditions contributed to the deaths, but records indicate students most commonly died of diseases such as tuberculosis, typhoid and measles. There also was at least one death by accidental shooting and another due to a neck injury.Researchers identified 49 of the children who died but have not been able to find names for 37 students. It's believed the bodies of a few children were returned to their families.But while the researchers accounted for the deaths, they couldn't find where the children were buried.Interest in bringing more professionals to help in Genoa grew after Canada announced in 2021 the discovery of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/canada-67da8a8af88efc91e6ffc64630796ec9">mass graves of Indigenous children</a>&nbsp;at residential schools, said Dave Williams, Nebraska’s state archeologist.“We’ve heard from residents knowing there were burials nearby, knowing this was the Genoa school cemetery, but that precise location has been lost to time,” Williams said. “We’ve heard it’s in a few different locations but so far that hasn’t panned out.”There were plenty of theories from residents and even former students, but it took study of maps and aerial photos to narrow down a few options. An initial effort to find remains using ground-penetrating radar wasn’t successful, but last summer an Iowa man volunteered to come to the site with dogs that are trained to detect the faint odor of decaying remains.Two dogs separately signaled they smelled remains on a narrow piece of land sandwiched between railroad tracks, a cornfield and a canal that was dug soon after the boarding school closed. In late October and early November, a team affiliated with the National Park Service made two trips to the site and used different kinds of ground-penetrating radar in hopes of detecting what was beneath the soil.The results of their examination should be available later in November.To gaiashkibos, a member of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, thinking of the boarding school and searching for the cemetery brings an overwhelming sense of sadness. But she said finding the cemetery is an essential step in honoring the children and recognizing what they had to endure.“To heal, we have to have answers and bring closure,” she said. “We need to know, where are those children?”

Researchers seek lost Native American boarding school graves

BULL HOLLOW, Okla. (AP) — Ryan Mackey quietly sang a sacred Cherokee verse as he pulled a handful of tobacco out of a zip-close bag. Reaching over a barbed wire fence, he scattered the leaves onto the pasture where a growing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travel-canyons-animals-wildlife-parks-1fd1bceea3ae1a7a60ac8eff7c606d6e">herd of bison</a>&nbsp;— popularly known as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-travel-health-canada-5a7f69c50b4df6a70cf6dbdc40a932b2">American buffalo</a>&nbsp;— grazed in northeastern Oklahoma.

The offering represented a reverent act of thanksgiving, the 45-year-old explained, and a desire to forge a divine connection with the animals, his ancestors and the Creator.

“When tobacco is used in the right way, it’s almost like a contract is made between you and the spirit — the spirit of our Creator, the spirit of these bison,” Mackey said as a strong wind rumbled across the grassy field. “Everything, they say, has a spiritual aspect. Just like this wind, we can feel it in our hands, but we can’t see it.”

Decades after the last bison vanished from their tribal lands, the Cherokee Nation is part of a nationwide resurgence of Indigenous people seeking to reconnect with the humpbacked, shaggy-haired animals that occupy a crucial place in centuries-old tradition and belief.

Since 1992 the federally chartered InterTribal Buffalo Council has helped&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-travel-health-canada-5a7f69c50b4df6a70cf6dbdc40a932b2">relocate surplus bison</a>&nbsp;from locations such as Badlands National Park in South Dakota, Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona to 82 member tribes in 20 states.

“Collectively those tribes manage over 20,000 buffalo on tribal lands,” said Troy Heinert, a Rosebud Sioux Tribe member who serves as executive director of the InterTribal Buffalo Council, based in Rapid City, South Dakota. “Our goal and mission is to restore buffalo back to Indian country for that cultural and spiritual connection that Indigenous people have with the buffalo.”

Centuries ago, an estimated 30 million to 60 million bison roamed the vast Great Plains of North America, from Canada to Texas. But by 1900, European settlers had driven the species to near extinction, hunting them en masse for their prized skins and often leaving the carcasses to rot on the prairie.

“It’s important to recognize the history that Native people had with buffalo and how buffalo were nearly decimated. … Now with the resurgence of the buffalo, often led by Native nations, we’re seeing that spiritual and cultural awakening as well that comes with it,” said Heinert, who is a South Dakota state senator.

Historically, Indigenous people hunted and used every part of the bison: for food, clothing, shelter, tools and ceremonial purposes. They did not regard the bison as a mere commodity, however, but rather as beings closely linked to people.

“Many tribes viewed them as a relative,” Heinert said. “You’ll find that in the ceremonies and language and songs.”

Rosalyn LaPier, an Indigenous writer and scholar who grew up on the Blackfeet Nation’s reservation in Montana, said there are different mythological origin stories for bison among the various peoples of the Great Plains.

“Depending on what Indigenous group you’re talking to, the bison originated in the supernatural realm and ended up on Earth for humans to use,” said LaPier, an environmental historian and ethnobotanist at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. “And there’s usually some sort of story of how humans were taught to hunt bison and kill bison and harvest them.”

Her Blackfeet tribe, for example, believes there are three realms: the sky world, the below world — that is, Earth — and the underwater world. Tribal lore, LaPier says, holds that the Blackfeet were vegetarians until an orphaned bison slipped out of the underwater world in human form and was taken in by two caring humans. As a result, the underwater bison’s divine leader allowed more to come to Earth to be hunted and eaten.

In Oklahoma, the Cherokee Nation, one of the largest Native American tribes with 437,000 registered members, had a few bison on its land in the 1970s. But they disappeared.

It wasn't until 40 years later that the tribe's contemporary herd was begun, when a large cattle trailer — driven by Heinert — arrived in fall 2014 with 38 bison from Badlands National Park. It was greeted by emotional songs and prayers from tribe's people.

“I can still remember the dew that was on the grass and the songs of the birds that were in the trees. ... I could feel the hope and the pride in the Cherokee people that day,” Heinert said.

Since then, births and additional bison transplants from various locations have boosted the population to about 215. The herd roams a 500-acre (2-square kilometer) pasture in Bull Hollow, an unincorporated area of Delaware County about 70 miles (113 kilometers) northeast of Tulsa, near the small town of Kenwood.

For now, the Cherokee are not harvesting the animals, whose bulls can weigh up to 2,000 pounds (900 kilograms) and stand 6 feet tall (nearly 2 meters), as leaders focus on growing the herd. But bison, a lean protein, could serve in the future as a food source for Cherokee schools and nutrition centers, said Bryan Warner, the tribe's deputy principal chief.

“Our hope is really not just for food sovereignty's sake but to really reconnect our citizens back in a spiritual way,” said Warner, a member of a United Methodist church.

That reconnection in turn leads to discussions about other fauna, he added, from rabbits and turtles to quail and doves.

“All these different animals — it puts you more in tune with nature,” he said as bison sauntered through a nearby pond. “And then essentially it puts you more in tune with yourself, because we all come from the same dirt that these animals are formed from — from our Creator.”

Originally from the southeastern United States, the Cherokee were forced to relocate to present-day Oklahoma in 1838 after gold was discovered in their ancestral lands. The 1,000-mile (1,600-kilometer) removal, known as the Trail of Tears, claimed nearly 4,000 lives through sickness and harsh travel conditions.

While bison are more associated with Great Plains tribes than those with roots on the East Coast, the newly arrived Cherokee had connections with a slightly smaller subspecies, according to Mackey. The animals on the tribe's lands today are not direct descendants, he explained, but close cousins with which the tribe is able to have a spiritual bond.

“We don’t speak the same language as the bison,” Mackey said. “But when you sit with them and spend time with them, relationships can be built on … other means than just language alone: sharing experiences, sharing that same space and just having a feeling of respect. Your body language changes when you have respect for someone or something.”

Mackey grew up with Pentecostal roots on his father’s side and Baptist on his mother’s. He still occasionally attends church, but finds more meaning in Cherokee ceremonial practices.

“Even if (tribal members) are raised in church or in synagogue or wherever they choose to worship, their elders are Cherokee elders,” he said. “And this idea of relationship and respect and guardianship — with the land, with the Earth, with all those things that reside on it — it’s passed down. It still pervades our identity as Cherokee people.”

That’s why he believes the bison's return to Cherokee lands is so important.

“The bison aren’t just meat,” he said. “They represent abundance and health and strength.”

By Associated PressBULL HOLLOW, Okla. (AP) — Ryan Mackey quietly sang a sacred Cherokee verse as he pulled a handful of tobacco out of a zip-close bag. Reaching over a barbed wire fence, he scattered the leaves onto the pasture where a growing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travel-canyons-animals-wildlife-parks-1fd1bceea3ae1a7a60ac8eff7c606d6e">herd of bison</a>&nbsp;— popularly known as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-travel-health-canada-5a7f69c50b4df6a70cf6dbdc40a932b2">American buffalo</a>&nbsp;— grazed in northeastern Oklahoma.The offering represented a reverent act of thanksgiving, the 45-year-old explained, and a desire to forge a divine connection with the animals, his ancestors and the Creator.“When tobacco is used in the right way, it’s almost like a contract is made between you and the spirit — the spirit of our Creator, the spirit of these bison,” Mackey said as a strong wind rumbled across the grassy field. “Everything, they say, has a spiritual aspect. Just like this wind, we can feel it in our hands, but we can’t see it.”Decades after the last bison vanished from their tribal lands, the Cherokee Nation is part of a nationwide resurgence of Indigenous people seeking to reconnect with the humpbacked, shaggy-haired animals that occupy a crucial place in centuries-old tradition and belief.Since 1992 the federally chartered InterTribal Buffalo Council has helped&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-travel-health-canada-5a7f69c50b4df6a70cf6dbdc40a932b2">relocate surplus bison</a>&nbsp;from locations such as Badlands National Park in South Dakota, Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona to 82 member tribes in 20 states.“Collectively those tribes manage over 20,000 buffalo on tribal lands,” said Troy Heinert, a Rosebud Sioux Tribe member who serves as executive director of the InterTribal Buffalo Council, based in Rapid City, South Dakota. “Our goal and mission is to restore buffalo back to Indian country for that cultural and spiritual connection that Indigenous people have with the buffalo.”Centuries ago, an estimated 30 million to 60 million bison roamed the vast Great Plains of North America, from Canada to Texas. But by 1900, European settlers had driven the species to near extinction, hunting them en masse for their prized skins and often leaving the carcasses to rot on the prairie.“It’s important to recognize the history that Native people had with buffalo and how buffalo were nearly decimated. … Now with the resurgence of the buffalo, often led by Native nations, we’re seeing that spiritual and cultural awakening as well that comes with it,” said Heinert, who is a South Dakota state senator.Historically, Indigenous people hunted and used every part of the bison: for food, clothing, shelter, tools and ceremonial purposes. They did not regard the bison as a mere commodity, however, but rather as beings closely linked to people.“Many tribes viewed them as a relative,” Heinert said. “You’ll find that in the ceremonies and language and songs.”Rosalyn LaPier, an Indigenous writer and scholar who grew up on the Blackfeet Nation’s reservation in Montana, said there are different mythological origin stories for bison among the various peoples of the Great Plains.“Depending on what Indigenous group you’re talking to, the bison originated in the supernatural realm and ended up on Earth for humans to use,” said LaPier, an environmental historian and ethnobotanist at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. “And there’s usually some sort of story of how humans were taught to hunt bison and kill bison and harvest them.”Her Blackfeet tribe, for example, believes there are three realms: the sky world, the below world — that is, Earth — and the underwater world. Tribal lore, LaPier says, holds that the Blackfeet were vegetarians until an orphaned bison slipped out of the underwater world in human form and was taken in by two caring humans. As a result, the underwater bison’s divine leader allowed more to come to Earth to be hunted and eaten.In Oklahoma, the Cherokee Nation, one of the largest Native American tribes with 437,000 registered members, had a few bison on its land in the 1970s. But they disappeared.It wasn't until 40 years later that the tribe's contemporary herd was begun, when a large cattle trailer — driven by Heinert — arrived in fall 2014 with 38 bison from Badlands National Park. It was greeted by emotional songs and prayers from tribe's people.“I can still remember the dew that was on the grass and the songs of the birds that were in the trees. ... I could feel the hope and the pride in the Cherokee people that day,” Heinert said.Since then, births and additional bison transplants from various locations have boosted the population to about 215. The herd roams a 500-acre (2-square kilometer) pasture in Bull Hollow, an unincorporated area of Delaware County about 70 miles (113 kilometers) northeast of Tulsa, near the small town of Kenwood.For now, the Cherokee are not harvesting the animals, whose bulls can weigh up to 2,000 pounds (900 kilograms) and stand 6 feet tall (nearly 2 meters), as leaders focus on growing the herd. But bison, a lean protein, could serve in the future as a food source for Cherokee schools and nutrition centers, said Bryan Warner, the tribe's deputy principal chief.“Our hope is really not just for food sovereignty's sake but to really reconnect our citizens back in a spiritual way,” said Warner, a member of a United Methodist church.That reconnection in turn leads to discussions about other fauna, he added, from rabbits and turtles to quail and doves.“All these different animals — it puts you more in tune with nature,” he said as bison sauntered through a nearby pond. “And then essentially it puts you more in tune with yourself, because we all come from the same dirt that these animals are formed from — from our Creator.”Originally from the southeastern United States, the Cherokee were forced to relocate to present-day Oklahoma in 1838 after gold was discovered in their ancestral lands. The 1,000-mile (1,600-kilometer) removal, known as the Trail of Tears, claimed nearly 4,000 lives through sickness and harsh travel conditions.While bison are more associated with Great Plains tribes than those with roots on the East Coast, the newly arrived Cherokee had connections with a slightly smaller subspecies, according to Mackey. The animals on the tribe's lands today are not direct descendants, he explained, but close cousins with which the tribe is able to have a spiritual bond.“We don’t speak the same language as the bison,” Mackey said. “But when you sit with them and spend time with them, relationships can be built on … other means than just language alone: sharing experiences, sharing that same space and just having a feeling of respect. Your body language changes when you have respect for someone or something.”Mackey grew up with Pentecostal roots on his father’s side and Baptist on his mother’s. He still occasionally attends church, but finds more meaning in Cherokee ceremonial practices.“Even if (tribal members) are raised in church or in synagogue or wherever they choose to worship, their elders are Cherokee elders,” he said. “And this idea of relationship and respect and guardianship — with the land, with the Earth, with all those things that reside on it — it’s passed down. It still pervades our identity as Cherokee people.”That’s why he believes the bison's return to Cherokee lands is so important.“The bison aren’t just meat,” he said. “They represent abundance and health and strength.”

Bison's relocation to Native lands revives a spiritual bond

NORTH PLATTE, NEB.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a homicide that occurred overnight in Imperial.

The Imperial Police Department and Chase County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a shooting overnight at a residence in the 100 block of 12th&nbsp;street in Imperial. A victim was located with a gunshot wound. The victim, identified as Jesse Krausnick, 19, was transported to the hospital in Imperial but passed away shortly after arrival.

A suspect, identified as Tristan Ferguson, 19, was taken into custody by the Imperial Police Department at the scene. The Imperial Police Department has requested that the Nebraska State Patrol conduct the homicide investigation.

Ferguson has been lodged in Chase County Jail for manslaughter, use of a weapon to commit a felony, and other charges. The investigation is ongoing.

Further media inquiries should be directed to the Chase County Attorney’s Office.

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;NORTH PLATTE, NEB.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a homicide that occurred overnight in Imperial.The Imperial Police Department and Chase County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a shooting overnight at a residence in the 100 block of 12th&nbsp;street in Imperial. A victim was located with a gunshot wound. The victim, identified as Jesse Krausnick, 19, was transported to the hospital in Imperial but passed away shortly after arrival.A suspect, identified as Tristan Ferguson, 19, was taken into custody by the Imperial Police Department at the scene. The Imperial Police Department has requested that the Nebraska State Patrol conduct the homicide investigation.Ferguson has been lodged in Chase County Jail for manslaughter, use of a weapon to commit a felony, and other charges. The investigation is ongoing.Further media inquiries should be directed to the Chase County Attorney’s Office.

NSP Investigating overnight homicide in Imperial

Thanks to:&nbsp; Jeff Stauss--NSAA&nbsp;Assistant Director

LINCOLN – The Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) Board of Directors has selected four candidates to interview for the NSAA executive director position.

Current Executive Director Jay Bellar will be retiring from the NSAA at the end of June 2023.&nbsp; Prior to his time at the NSAA, Bellar was a high school teacher, coach, activities director, and principal before becoming superintendent for Battle Creek Public School – a position he held for 20 years.&nbsp; Bellar also served as a member of the NSAA Board of Directors for 11 years from 2007–2018.

Finalists for the NSAA executive director position are:&nbsp; &nbsp;Mark Armstrong, Athletics and Activities Director at Lincoln Southwest High School;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jon Cerny, Superintendent at Bancroft-Rosalie Public School;&nbsp; &nbsp; John Krogstrand,&nbsp; Director of Athletics for Omaha Public Schools;&nbsp; and&nbsp; Chris Loofe, Associate Superintendent for Kearney Public Schools.

Interviews will be held at the NSAA office in Lincoln on November 29 and November 30, 2022,&nbsp; with the new executive director beginning service on or about July 1, 2023.

The NSAA, based in Lincoln, Nebraska, is the statewide leadership organization for high school sports and performing arts activities.&nbsp; Since 1910, the NSAA has provided leadership and support for education-based interscholastic sports and performing arts activities that help students succeed in their lives.&nbsp; The NSAA enforces rules and regulations promulgated by the member schools, providing for a level competitive playing field in sports and activities. NSAA organizes and administers regular and postseason activities in 26 different sports and activities. Game officials and activities judges are registered by the NSAA and assigned by NSAA for postseason competition. 

For more information about the NSAA, visit the NSAA website at www.nsaahome.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1570799308798.jpeg" alt="NSAA" />
 <figcaption>NSAA</figcaption>
 </figure>Thanks to:&nbsp; Jeff Stauss--NSAA&nbsp;Assistant DirectorLINCOLN – The Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) Board of Directors has selected four candidates to interview for the NSAA executive director position.Current Executive Director Jay Bellar will be retiring from the NSAA at the end of June 2023.&nbsp; Prior to his time at the NSAA, Bellar was a high school teacher, coach, activities director, and principal before becoming superintendent for Battle Creek Public School – a position he held for 20 years.&nbsp; Bellar also served as a member of the NSAA Board of Directors for 11 years from 2007–2018.Finalists for the NSAA executive director position are:&nbsp; &nbsp;Mark Armstrong, Athletics and Activities Director at Lincoln Southwest High School;&nbsp; &nbsp; Jon Cerny, Superintendent at Bancroft-Rosalie Public School;&nbsp; &nbsp; John Krogstrand,&nbsp; Director of Athletics for Omaha Public Schools;&nbsp; and&nbsp; Chris Loofe, Associate Superintendent for Kearney Public Schools.Interviews will be held at the NSAA office in Lincoln on November 29 and November 30, 2022,&nbsp; with the new executive director beginning service on or about July 1, 2023.The NSAA, based in Lincoln, Nebraska, is the statewide leadership organization for high school sports and performing arts activities.&nbsp; Since 1910, the NSAA has provided leadership and support for education-based interscholastic sports and performing arts activities that help students succeed in their lives.&nbsp; The NSAA enforces rules and regulations promulgated by the member schools, providing for a level competitive playing field in sports and activities. NSAA organizes and administers regular and postseason activities in 26 different sports and activities. Game officials and activities judges are registered by the NSAA and assigned by NSAA for postseason competition. For more information about the NSAA, visit the NSAA website at www.nsaahome.org.

Finalists for NSAA executive director position announced

LINCOLN –&nbsp; Nebraska Governor-elect Jim Pillen made the following statement in observance of Thanksgiving.

"Thanksgiving was established over 400 years ago with the purpose of expressing gratitude for the gifts we've been given from our Heavenly Father. In Nebraska, we have many things to be thankful for: A fruitful land full of natural beauty, a vibrant economy, a culture that respects and loves life, and family and neighbors that care about each other and the future of our state. Today [Thanksgiving] as we gather together with our loved ones, let us remember our abundant blessings and be humbled by the fact that the state we call home is the greatest place to live in the world."

By Gov. Elect Jim PillenLINCOLN –&nbsp; Nebraska Governor-elect Jim Pillen made the following statement in observance of Thanksgiving."Thanksgiving was established over 400 years ago with the purpose of expressing gratitude for the gifts we've been given from our Heavenly Father. In Nebraska, we have many things to be thankful for: A fruitful land full of natural beauty, a vibrant economy, a culture that respects and loves life, and family and neighbors that care about each other and the future of our state. Today [Thanksgiving] as we gather together with our loved ones, let us remember our abundant blessings and be humbled by the fact that the state we call home is the greatest place to live in the world."

Governor-Elect Pillen's Thanksgiving statement

November 9 – U.S. Secretary of Labor Martin J. Walsh recognized ALLO as one of the 835 recipients of the 2022 HIRE Vets Medallion Award during a virtual award ceremony presented by U.S. Department of Labor held on November 9th. ALLO earned the gold medallion award after applying earlier this year. The Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act (HIRE Vets Act) Medallion Program is the only federal award program that recognizes employers who successfully recruit, hire, and retain veterans.

"It truly is an honor to have won the Department of Labor HIRE Vets Gold Medallion award for three straight years. ALLO leaders recognize that our Guard, Reserve and Veterans teammates have a huge impact on helping us successfully serve our communities," said Todd Heyne, ALLO Chief Construction Officer and Navy veteran. "ALLO is growing, and each new market brings challenges. The veterans we hire come with the attitude and skills to get the job done well."

ALLO joins 834 other companies from 49 states, plus the District of Columbia, who have shown a commitment to hiring veterans, but also ensuring that they have a long-term career and growth plan that uses the diverse skills they acquired through their military service.

Recipients of the 2022 HIRE Vets Medallion Award meet rigorous employment and veteran integration assistance criteria, including veteran hiring and retention percentages; availability of veteran-specific resources; leadership programming for veterans; dedicated human resource efforts; pay compensation and tuition assistance programs for veterans. More than 1,400 employers have earned a HIRE Vets Medallion Award since 2018.

ALLO has benefit programs in place to support veterans transitioning to the workforce and active Guard and Reserve members, including a Military Leave Benefit that 27 ALLO teammates utilized in the past 12 months. ALLO also offers a Skillbridge internship program for active-duty service members who are about to end their service, and a pay differential benefit where ALLO will pay a deployed team member the difference between their ALLO salary and military pay to ensure the same income during their deployment.

For more information on ALLO’s efforts to support former and active military, visit <a href="http://AlloFiber.com/Veterans">AlloFiber.com/Veterans</a>.

ALLO Communications specializes in providing world-class communications and entertainment services by creating gigabit communities. In 2003, ALLO began building its first Gigabit fiber communities and today provides ubiquitous fiber networks in more than 30 communities in Nebraska, Colorado, and Arizona, with a total population of over one million supported by more than 1,200 ALLO team members.


The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is earned by businesses that demonstrate unparalleled commitment to attracting, hiring and retaining veterans. The 2023 HIRE Vets Medallion Award application period will open to employers on January 31st, 2023. For more information about the program and the application process, visit <a href="http://HIREVets.gov">HIREVets.gov</a>.

There are different awards for large employers (500-plus employees), medium employers (51-499 employees), and small employers (50 or fewer employees). Additionally, there are two award tiers: platinum and gold.

By ALLONovember 9 – U.S. Secretary of Labor Martin J. Walsh recognized ALLO as one of the 835 recipients of the 2022 HIRE Vets Medallion Award during a virtual award ceremony presented by U.S. Department of Labor held on November 9th. ALLO earned the gold medallion award after applying earlier this year. The Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act (HIRE Vets Act) Medallion Program is the only federal award program that recognizes employers who successfully recruit, hire, and retain veterans."It truly is an honor to have won the Department of Labor HIRE Vets Gold Medallion award for three straight years. ALLO leaders recognize that our Guard, Reserve and Veterans teammates have a huge impact on helping us successfully serve our communities," said Todd Heyne, ALLO Chief Construction Officer and Navy veteran. "ALLO is growing, and each new market brings challenges. The veterans we hire come with the attitude and skills to get the job done well."ALLO joins 834 other companies from 49 states, plus the District of Columbia, who have shown a commitment to hiring veterans, but also ensuring that they have a long-term career and growth plan that uses the diverse skills they acquired through their military service.Recipients of the 2022 HIRE Vets Medallion Award meet rigorous employment and veteran integration assistance criteria, including veteran hiring and retention percentages; availability of veteran-specific resources; leadership programming for veterans; dedicated human resource efforts; pay compensation and tuition assistance programs for veterans. More than 1,400 employers have earned a HIRE Vets Medallion Award since 2018.ALLO has benefit programs in place to support veterans transitioning to the workforce and active Guard and Reserve members, including a Military Leave Benefit that 27 ALLO teammates utilized in the past 12 months. ALLO also offers a Skillbridge internship program for active-duty service members who are about to end their service, and a pay differential benefit where ALLO will pay a deployed team member the difference between their ALLO salary and military pay to ensure the same income during their deployment.For more information on ALLO’s efforts to support former and active military, visit <a href="http://AlloFiber.com/Veterans">AlloFiber.com/Veterans</a>.About ALLO CommunicationsALLO Communications specializes in providing world-class communications and entertainment services by creating gigabit communities. In 2003, ALLO began building its first Gigabit fiber communities and today provides ubiquitous fiber networks in more than 30 communities in Nebraska, Colorado, and Arizona, with a total population of over one million supported by more than 1,200 ALLO team members.
About the HIRE Vets Medallion Program:The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is earned by businesses that demonstrate unparalleled commitment to attracting, hiring and retaining veterans. The 2023 HIRE Vets Medallion Award application period will open to employers on January 31st, 2023. For more information about the program and the application process, visit <a href="http://HIREVets.gov">HIREVets.gov</a>.
There are different awards for large employers (500-plus employees), medium employers (51-499 employees), and small employers (50 or fewer employees). Additionally, there are two award tiers: platinum and gold.

ALLO receives Hire Vets Medallion Award from U.S. Dept. of Labor

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – Chadron High School Counselor Loni Watson recently received&nbsp;the 2022 Counseling Excellence Award from the Nebraska State College System.

Watson, who has worked for Chadron Public Schools for nine years, said the recognition was humbling.

“I’m honored to be recognized by the Nebraska State College System, which I am a proud product of. Especially in a state with such an amazing cohort of counselors who advocate for students of all backgrounds,” she said.

She has earned three degrees from CSC: A bachelor’s degree in 2008, a master’s in Administration in 2013, and a master’s in School Counseling in 2017.

Watson serves on the Nebraska School Counselor’s Association (NSCA) board, an experience she said has allowed her to meet and network with counselors across the state. She received the NSCS honor at the NSCA conference where she shared her thoughts about affordable education with her colleagues.

“I reminded my colleagues how amazing the state colleges are and how truly important affordable education is,” she said. “I know I’m biased being a product of a mother without a degree, knowing what it feels like to buy groceries with a pink food stamp booklet or EBT card. I am forever thankful for an affordable education for students in our state.”

After graduating from CSC and before returning to Chadron, she was a math teacher and coach in eastern Nebraska schools including Plattsmouth, Blair, and Seward.

“I adored my experience.&nbsp;While teaching math it became extremely evident to me that it is impossible to learn at a high level without feeling good physically and mentally. Although I loved teaching math, I found something I was even more passionate about: Advocating for all kids academically, as well as emotionally,” Watson said.

After making a recent presentation in Omaha, Watson said numerous counselors commended CHS for its work and asked how to implement similar programs in their communities.

“I can’t speak highly enough of Chadron Public Schools and our amazing community support and trust. I truly cannot imagine a better place to work and raise my kids,” Watson said. “I’m incredibly proud of Chadron Public Schools and the efforts we’ve made K-12 in the last five years to advocate for every child.”

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Chadron High School Counselor Loni Watson recently received&nbsp;the 2022 Counseling Excellence Award from the Nebraska State College System.Watson, who has worked for Chadron Public Schools for nine years, said the recognition was humbling.“I’m honored to be recognized by the Nebraska State College System, which I am a proud product of. Especially in a state with such an amazing cohort of counselors who advocate for students of all backgrounds,” she said.She has earned three degrees from CSC: A bachelor’s degree in 2008, a master’s in Administration in 2013, and a master’s in School Counseling in 2017.Watson serves on the Nebraska School Counselor’s Association (NSCA) board, an experience she said has allowed her to meet and network with counselors across the state. She received the NSCS honor at the NSCA conference where she shared her thoughts about affordable education with her colleagues.“I reminded my colleagues how amazing the state colleges are and how truly important affordable education is,” she said. “I know I’m biased being a product of a mother without a degree, knowing what it feels like to buy groceries with a pink food stamp booklet or EBT card. I am forever thankful for an affordable education for students in our state.”After graduating from CSC and before returning to Chadron, she was a math teacher and coach in eastern Nebraska schools including Plattsmouth, Blair, and Seward.“I adored my experience.&nbsp;While teaching math it became extremely evident to me that it is impossible to learn at a high level without feeling good physically and mentally. Although I loved teaching math, I found something I was even more passionate about: Advocating for all kids academically, as well as emotionally,” Watson said.After making a recent presentation in Omaha, Watson said numerous counselors commended CHS for its work and asked how to implement similar programs in their communities.“I can’t speak highly enough of Chadron Public Schools and our amazing community support and trust. I truly cannot imagine a better place to work and raise my kids,” Watson said. “I’m incredibly proud of Chadron Public Schools and the efforts we’ve made K-12 in the last five years to advocate for every child.”

Watson of Chadron receives NSCS counseling award

LINCOLN, Neb. – Doing some holiday shopping for someone who loves the outdoors? Find what you’re looking for with these seven gift ideas from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission:

Give the gift of experiences – one year’s worth of access to over 70 scenic state parks from one end of the state to the other. With opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, wildlife watching or just enjoying the beautiful outdoors, Nebraska’s state parks have something for everyone.

You can enjoy gorgeous Nebraska scenes all year long with the 2023 Nebraskaland Calendar. Each month features a spectacular Nebraska image taken by a Nebraskaland photographer, along with plenty of room to pencil in notes. It’s great for both the home and the office.

Let someone choose their own gift of the outdoors with Game and Parks “Bucks,” which work like a gift card. They can be used for everything from permits and magazine subscriptions to camping, shooting range fees and more.

Save up to 75% on a subscription to Nebraskaland Magazine and receive the award-winning 2023 Nebraskaland calendar. Deals start at just $24 for a one-year subscription. Nebraskaland is a great fit for outdoor enthusiasts, filled with scenic images and engaging stories on outdoor recreation, wildlife, parks and people.

If you know someone who loves to fish or hunt, make your gift-giving easy and get them a permit allowing them to enjoy those activities all year long. This also could be a good gift for someone who would appreciate the nudge to try a new hobby or get back into an old one.

This new option offers an alternative to carrying a paper permit with you in the field. When you buy a permit, you can choose to add on a wallet-sized hard card – complete with beautiful artwork of a crappie or pheasant – onto your purchase for just $6. It displays your current permits and hunter ID, and will stand up to water and repeated trips in and out of pockets and tackle boxes.

Treat someone special to the gift that lasts a lifetime – a Nebraska lifetime permit. It is the ultimate gift for any hunter or angler and an investment in the future.

Learn more and purchase these items at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjExMjMuNjcxNjA5NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9HaWZ0R3VpZGUvIn0.Rvuj-K2zFAo1L5N-8_DI6bIo_9CDMRgiqd8ypOc3TiE/s/1372948182/br/148874445855-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/GiftGuide</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669380134549.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKSLINCOLN, Neb. – Doing some holiday shopping for someone who loves the outdoors? Find what you’re looking for with these seven gift ideas from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission:<h2>Annual state park permits</h2>Give the gift of experiences – one year’s worth of access to over 70 scenic state parks from one end of the state to the other. With opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, wildlife watching or just enjoying the beautiful outdoors, Nebraska’s state parks have something for everyone.<h2>2023 Nebraskaland Calendar</h2>You can enjoy gorgeous Nebraska scenes all year long with the 2023 Nebraskaland Calendar. Each month features a spectacular Nebraska image taken by a Nebraskaland photographer, along with plenty of room to pencil in notes. It’s great for both the home and the office.<h2>Game and Parks “Bucks”</h2>Let someone choose their own gift of the outdoors with Game and Parks “Bucks,” which work like a gift card. They can be used for everything from permits and magazine subscriptions to camping, shooting range fees and more.<h2>Nebraskaland Holiday Special</h2>Save up to 75% on a subscription to Nebraskaland Magazine and receive the award-winning 2023 Nebraskaland calendar. Deals start at just $24 for a one-year subscription. Nebraskaland is a great fit for outdoor enthusiasts, filled with scenic images and engaging stories on outdoor recreation, wildlife, parks and people.<h2>Annual hunting or fishing permits</h2>If you know someone who loves to fish or hunt, make your gift-giving easy and get them a permit allowing them to enjoy those activities all year long. This also could be a good gift for someone who would appreciate the nudge to try a new hobby or get back into an old one.<h2>Hard card permits</h2>This new option offers an alternative to carrying a paper permit with you in the field. When you buy a permit, you can choose to add on a wallet-sized hard card – complete with beautiful artwork of a crappie or pheasant – onto your purchase for just $6. It displays your current permits and hunter ID, and will stand up to water and repeated trips in and out of pockets and tackle boxes.<h2>Lifetime permits and stamps</h2>Treat someone special to the gift that lasts a lifetime – a Nebraska lifetime permit. It is the ultimate gift for any hunter or angler and an investment in the future.Learn more and purchase these items at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjExMjMuNjcxNjA5NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9HaWZ0R3VpZGUvIn0.Rvuj-K2zFAo1L5N-8_DI6bIo_9CDMRgiqd8ypOc3TiE/s/1372948182/br/148874445855-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/GiftGuide</a>.

7 holiday gift ideas for the Nebraska outdoors enthusiast

As Nebraskans, we’re fortunate to live in a state where we enjoy peace, prosperity, and the blessings of liberty.&nbsp; As we celebrate Thanksgiving with friends and family, there are plenty of reasons to be grateful here in the Good Life.

First and foremost, Nebraska is filled with friendly, generous people.&nbsp; Nebraskans are quick to lend a hand—whether that’s shoveling the driveway of an elderly neighbor, delivering a home-cooked meal to a family with a newborn, or helping a fellow rancher round up cattle that have gotten out.

Many times, it’s these everyday acts of service that make Nebraskans stand out.&nbsp; But time and again, I have seen Nebraskans step up for one another in big ways. &nbsp;This week, I had the honor of presenting Frank Axiotes, of Elkhorn, with the Carnegie&nbsp;Hero&nbsp;Medal.&nbsp; It’s a national award given to men and women for acts of heroism.&nbsp; In September of 2020, Frank was driving along I-80 in Lincoln when he encountered a three vehicle crash in the opposite lanes.&nbsp; Instead of driving by, Frank sprang to action to aid those on-scene. &nbsp;He ran to a Chevy Trailblazer that was pinned between a semi and the barrier and helped remove 21-year-old Madison Daly and her nine-year-old brother from the vehicle before the car burst into flames. &nbsp;Nebraska is a better place because of people like Frank, who are willing to risk their lives for the safety of others without giving it a second thought.

Nebraskans are also generous with their time.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to United Health Foundation, our state ranks #3 in America for volunteerism.&nbsp;&nbsp;This willingness to serve is especially evident in seasons of adversity.&nbsp; 2022 is on pace to be the second-worst year for wildfires in Nebraska history.&nbsp; Firefighters have done heroic work to protect lives and property as wildfires have raged across the state.&nbsp; In Nebraska, there are 478 fire departments with over 17,000 firefighters who courageously serve to protect their communities.&nbsp; More than 15,000 of these firefighters are unpaid volunteers.&nbsp; As they’ve fought to contain fires, churches and schools have stepped up to collect donations to make sure our firefighters have all the nourishment they need to replenish their strength.&nbsp; On behalf of all Nebraskans, thank you to the men and women who’ve worked long shifts, risking their personal safety to fight wildfires this year.&nbsp; And thank you to their family, friends, and neighbors who’ve supported them.

Nebraskans also know how to roll up their sleeves and get the job done.&nbsp; We have more adults working per capita than in any other state.&nbsp; This strong work ethic has helped create the prosperity we enjoy.&nbsp;

The gross domestic product (GDP) of Nebraska grew at the fastest pace in ten years during 2021.&nbsp; This growth was driven by agriculture, our largest industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;It accounted for over half of our GDP growth last year.&nbsp; Nebraska’s total agricultural exports in 2021 were $10.2 billion.&nbsp;&nbsp;That’s up 70%—over $4 billion—in just two years.

We’ve also seen impressive growth in our economy’s second largest sector: manufacturing.&nbsp; This year, we achieved Nebraska’s highest manufacturing employment since 2003.&nbsp; We’ve attracted major investments from manufacturers of food (Sustainable Beef in North Platte; Milk Specialties in Norfolk), biofuel (Heartwell Renewables in Hastings), fertilizer (Monolith Materials in Hallam), personal safety equipment (3M in Valley), and much more.

And Nebraska’s third-largest industry, tourism, has bounced back even stronger than before the pandemic.&nbsp; Last year, visitors to Nebraska spent a record high of $3.6 billion.&nbsp; Total visitor expenditures grew 65% compared to 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;That was a much stronger rebound than the national average (48%).

The State leveraged federal funding to invest $115 million to accelerate nonprofit capital projects delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; This is helping move forward major construction projects at tourist attractions across the state, including at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Lauritzen Gardens, Rowe Sanctuary in Gibbon, and the Merrick County Historical Museum.&nbsp; The funding is also helping to develop major sports complexes in Columbus, Cozad, La Vista, and Valley.&nbsp; These facilities will add to our state’s capacity to host regional and national athletic competitions, which will bring even more visitors to Nebraska.

All of this growth has generated record State revenues.&nbsp; Last fiscal year, the State surpassed its revenue projections by $1.47&nbsp;billion. This made it possible for us to deliver historic tax relief during the 2022 Legislative Session.

On October 28, 2022, the State forecasting board raised the State’s revenue forecast by $2.5 billion through fiscal year 2024-2025 due to Nebraska’s continued economic strength.&nbsp; Our rainy-day fund is already larger than ever at $1.7 billion, and it’s forecasted to grow to $2.3 billion by the middle of 2024.&nbsp; That sets up the next Legislature to build on the historic tax relief we delivered to Nebraskans earlier this year.

Nebraska’s affordability, safe communities, and great schools are additional reasons to be thankful for the Good Life. &nbsp;Thanks to these strengths, the Cornhusker State routinely earns top marks as one America’s best states for families.&nbsp; This year,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homesnacks.com%2Fbest-states-to-raise-a-family-in-america%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C8b74a4af1458455f044d08dacc9a54da%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638047260463424013%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=CZd1MU7zy0d%2FbVGX2qQiEHGh1JVrNhwBc4J4od3QUT0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">HomeSnacks</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rocketmortgage.com%2Flearn%2Fbest-places-to-raise-a-family&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C8b74a4af1458455f044d08dacc9a54da%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638047260463424013%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=%2FY5mOaXGxe0vFQBMvDVJTluhOeAsV2oQ%2BdPWNhuCB5s%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Rocket Mortgage</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bankrate.com%2Finsurance%2Flife-insurance%2Fbest-worst-states-to-raise-family%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C8b74a4af1458455f044d08dacc9a54da%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638047260463424013%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=VAqV7LpoGMYMsH2I8ztR2MZu8MJi516nrzsTTKEvXdw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Bankrate</a>&nbsp;ranked Nebraska—respectively—as the #4, #5, and #6 best state to raise a family.

With great people, fantastic growth, and family-friendly communities, Nebraska truly is the Good Life.&nbsp; Thank you to everyone whose hard work has made 2022 another successful year for our state.&nbsp; As always, please contact me (<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-2244)&nbsp;should you have any questions or concerns.&nbsp; Happy Thanksgiving!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Gov. Pete RickettsAs Nebraskans, we’re fortunate to live in a state where we enjoy peace, prosperity, and the blessings of liberty.&nbsp; As we celebrate Thanksgiving with friends and family, there are plenty of reasons to be grateful here in the Good Life.First and foremost, Nebraska is filled with friendly, generous people.&nbsp; Nebraskans are quick to lend a hand—whether that’s shoveling the driveway of an elderly neighbor, delivering a home-cooked meal to a family with a newborn, or helping a fellow rancher round up cattle that have gotten out.Many times, it’s these everyday acts of service that make Nebraskans stand out.&nbsp; But time and again, I have seen Nebraskans step up for one another in big ways. &nbsp;This week, I had the honor of presenting Frank Axiotes, of Elkhorn, with the Carnegie&nbsp;Hero&nbsp;Medal.&nbsp; It’s a national award given to men and women for acts of heroism.&nbsp; In September of 2020, Frank was driving along I-80 in Lincoln when he encountered a three vehicle crash in the opposite lanes.&nbsp; Instead of driving by, Frank sprang to action to aid those on-scene. &nbsp;He ran to a Chevy Trailblazer that was pinned between a semi and the barrier and helped remove 21-year-old Madison Daly and her nine-year-old brother from the vehicle before the car burst into flames. &nbsp;Nebraska is a better place because of people like Frank, who are willing to risk their lives for the safety of others without giving it a second thought.Nebraskans are also generous with their time.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to United Health Foundation, our state ranks #3 in America for volunteerism.&nbsp;&nbsp;This willingness to serve is especially evident in seasons of adversity.&nbsp; 2022 is on pace to be the second-worst year for wildfires in Nebraska history.&nbsp; Firefighters have done heroic work to protect lives and property as wildfires have raged across the state.&nbsp; In Nebraska, there are 478 fire departments with over 17,000 firefighters who courageously serve to protect their communities.&nbsp; More than 15,000 of these firefighters are unpaid volunteers.&nbsp; As they’ve fought to contain fires, churches and schools have stepped up to collect donations to make sure our firefighters have all the nourishment they need to replenish their strength.&nbsp; On behalf of all Nebraskans, thank you to the men and women who’ve worked long shifts, risking their personal safety to fight wildfires this year.&nbsp; And thank you to their family, friends, and neighbors who’ve supported them.Nebraskans also know how to roll up their sleeves and get the job done.&nbsp; We have more adults working per capita than in any other state.&nbsp; This strong work ethic has helped create the prosperity we enjoy.&nbsp;The gross domestic product (GDP) of Nebraska grew at the fastest pace in ten years during 2021.&nbsp; This growth was driven by agriculture, our largest industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;It accounted for over half of our GDP growth last year.&nbsp; Nebraska’s total agricultural exports in 2021 were $10.2 billion.&nbsp;&nbsp;That’s up 70%—over $4 billion—in just two years.We’ve also seen impressive growth in our economy’s second largest sector: manufacturing.&nbsp; This year, we achieved Nebraska’s highest manufacturing employment since 2003.&nbsp; We’ve attracted major investments from manufacturers of food (Sustainable Beef in North Platte; Milk Specialties in Norfolk), biofuel (Heartwell Renewables in Hastings), fertilizer (Monolith Materials in Hallam), personal safety equipment (3M in Valley), and much more.And Nebraska’s third-largest industry, tourism, has bounced back even stronger than before the pandemic.&nbsp; Last year, visitors to Nebraska spent a record high of $3.6 billion.&nbsp; Total visitor expenditures grew 65% compared to 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;That was a much stronger rebound than the national average (48%).The State leveraged federal funding to invest $115 million to accelerate nonprofit capital projects delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; This is helping move forward major construction projects at tourist attractions across the state, including at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Lauritzen Gardens, Rowe Sanctuary in Gibbon, and the Merrick County Historical Museum.&nbsp; The funding is also helping to develop major sports complexes in Columbus, Cozad, La Vista, and Valley.&nbsp; These facilities will add to our state’s capacity to host regional and national athletic competitions, which will bring even more visitors to Nebraska.All of this growth has generated record State revenues.&nbsp; Last fiscal year, the State surpassed its revenue projections by $1.47&nbsp;billion. This made it possible for us to deliver historic tax relief during the 2022 Legislative Session.On October 28, 2022, the State forecasting board raised the State’s revenue forecast by $2.5 billion through fiscal year 2024-2025 due to Nebraska’s continued economic strength.&nbsp; Our rainy-day fund is already larger than ever at $1.7 billion, and it’s forecasted to grow to $2.3 billion by the middle of 2024.&nbsp; That sets up the next Legislature to build on the historic tax relief we delivered to Nebraskans earlier this year.Nebraska’s affordability, safe communities, and great schools are additional reasons to be thankful for the Good Life. &nbsp;Thanks to these strengths, the Cornhusker State routinely earns top marks as one America’s best states for families.&nbsp; This year,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homesnacks.com%2Fbest-states-to-raise-a-family-in-america%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C8b74a4af1458455f044d08dacc9a54da%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638047260463424013%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=CZd1MU7zy0d%2FbVGX2qQiEHGh1JVrNhwBc4J4od3QUT0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">HomeSnacks</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rocketmortgage.com%2Flearn%2Fbest-places-to-raise-a-family&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C8b74a4af1458455f044d08dacc9a54da%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638047260463424013%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=%2FY5mOaXGxe0vFQBMvDVJTluhOeAsV2oQ%2BdPWNhuCB5s%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Rocket Mortgage</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bankrate.com%2Finsurance%2Flife-insurance%2Fbest-worst-states-to-raise-family%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C8b74a4af1458455f044d08dacc9a54da%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638047260463424013%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=VAqV7LpoGMYMsH2I8ztR2MZu8MJi516nrzsTTKEvXdw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Bankrate</a>&nbsp;ranked Nebraska—respectively—as the #4, #5, and #6 best state to raise a family.With great people, fantastic growth, and family-friendly communities, Nebraska truly is the Good Life.&nbsp; Thank you to everyone whose hard work has made 2022 another successful year for our state.&nbsp; As always, please contact me (<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-2244)&nbsp;should you have any questions or concerns.&nbsp; Happy Thanksgiving!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts: Grateful for the Good Life

Alliance – The City of Alliance Facilities will be closed Thursday, November 24th and Friday, November 25th in observance of Thanksgiving. This closure includes the Utility Office, Public Works and the Municipal Building.

Public Transit will be closed Thursday, November 24th and running medical only on Friday, November 25th.

The Alliance Municipal Landfill and Alliance Public Library will also be closed Thursday, November 24th thru Sunday November 27th for the holiday weekend.

The Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center will be closed Thursday, November 24th and Friday, November 25th. They will reopen on Saturday, November 26th from 10am-8pm to kick off their Annual Christmas Festival.

Please contact the City Administration Offices at (308) 762-5400 for any questions or for more information.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The City of Alliance Facilities will be closed Thursday, November 24th and Friday, November 25th in observance of Thanksgiving. This closure includes the Utility Office, Public Works and the Municipal Building.Public Transit will be closed Thursday, November 24th and running medical only on Friday, November 25th.The Alliance Municipal Landfill and Alliance Public Library will also be closed Thursday, November 24th thru Sunday November 27th for the holiday weekend.The Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center will be closed Thursday, November 24th and Friday, November 25th. They will reopen on Saturday, November 26th from 10am-8pm to kick off their Annual Christmas Festival.Please contact the City Administration Offices at (308) 762-5400 for any questions or for more information.

City of Alliance announces Thanksgiving closures 

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

For many years, the churches in Alliance have been providing food baskets at Christmastime to families who need a little extra to make ends meet. A few years ago, United Way of Western Nebraska took over the organization of this project, and here is a review of how it works.

People in the Box Butte County area who need food assistance are asked to fill out an application at uwwn.org before December 5. Their income must be less than 180% of the federal poverty level, with the dollar amount of income based on the size of the family.

Everyone who meets the criteria will receive a food box in December. The goal is to provide a nice holiday meal and to fill gaps of needed items to be used by the family later. Food boxes can be picked up on Sunday, December 18. Disabled or families with other special needs may be able to have their boxes delivered.

Most area churches collect food, and area businesses are generous with their contributions. Individuals who want to donate food are asked to drop items off at St. John's, 2090 Emerson, December 1-12, Monday through Thursday, 8:30 am - 2:30 pm. You will be asked to check the expiration date (no expired food can be used) and to sort the food onto the correct table.

Items requested: boxed stuffing, canned vegetables, canned fruit, gravy packets, boxed meals (hamburger helper, tuna helper, mac &amp; cheese, etc.), dessert mixes (cake or brownie mixes, jello, etc.), pasta sauce, pasta, peanut butter, jelly, canned tuna, canned chicken, canned soup, cooking oil, and cereal.

Along with these items, meat certificates, potatoes, bread, and milk vouchers will be included with the food boxes. These vouchers can be redeemed at the grocery stores.

Monetary donations are needed as well. If your church participates, a designated check may be left with them. Checks may be sent to United Way, PO Box 617, Alliance, NE 69301. All checks should include Christmas food boxes in the memo line. United Way will use this money to pay for vouchers and to order any remaining food needed.

If you buy groceries at Safeway, you've noticed the option of donating at the cash register. In November, Safeway used these Turkey Bucks to provide $50 gift certificates; 95 families received these gift cards for their Thanksgiving meals. Now Safeway is collecting Santa Bucks for gift cards to support the Christmas boxes.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityFor many years, the churches in Alliance have been providing food baskets at Christmastime to families who need a little extra to make ends meet. A few years ago, United Way of Western Nebraska took over the organization of this project, and here is a review of how it works.People in the Box Butte County area who need food assistance are asked to fill out an application at uwwn.org before December 5. Their income must be less than 180% of the federal poverty level, with the dollar amount of income based on the size of the family.Everyone who meets the criteria will receive a food box in December. The goal is to provide a nice holiday meal and to fill gaps of needed items to be used by the family later. Food boxes can be picked up on Sunday, December 18. Disabled or families with other special needs may be able to have their boxes delivered.Most area churches collect food, and area businesses are generous with their contributions. Individuals who want to donate food are asked to drop items off at St. John's, 2090 Emerson, December 1-12, Monday through Thursday, 8:30 am - 2:30 pm. You will be asked to check the expiration date (no expired food can be used) and to sort the food onto the correct table.Items requested: boxed stuffing, canned vegetables, canned fruit, gravy packets, boxed meals (hamburger helper, tuna helper, mac &amp; cheese, etc.), dessert mixes (cake or brownie mixes, jello, etc.), pasta sauce, pasta, peanut butter, jelly, canned tuna, canned chicken, canned soup, cooking oil, and cereal.Along with these items, meat certificates, potatoes, bread, and milk vouchers will be included with the food boxes. These vouchers can be redeemed at the grocery stores.Monetary donations are needed as well. If your church participates, a designated check may be left with them. Checks may be sent to United Way, PO Box 617, Alliance, NE 69301. All checks should include Christmas food boxes in the memo line. United Way will use this money to pay for vouchers and to order any remaining food needed.If you buy groceries at Safeway, you've noticed the option of donating at the cash register. In November, Safeway used these Turkey Bucks to provide $50 gift certificates; 95 families received these gift cards for their Thanksgiving meals. Now Safeway is collecting Santa Bucks for gift cards to support the Christmas boxes.Besides food, St. John's Lutheran Church collects new hats, mittens, gloves, socks, and blankets to distribute to families when they pick up their boxes. These donations can be dropped off at St. John's, 2090 Emerson, Monday-Thursday, 8:30-2:30.For the last two years, Christmas food boxes have been given to 250-300 families, serving 650-700 people. This year the need is expected to be even greater! If you have questions, contact Karen Benzel, 308-763-6031, or email her at kbenzel@uwwn.org.Please be generous as these food boxes help us address food insecurity and provide food beyond a holiday meal to families in our community.

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