By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and its partners have received a $4 million grant through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to restore grassland and wetland habitat for at-risk species.

A four-year conservation project will take place in the Sandhills and adjacent areas, where wetlands and streams face alteration and channelization. Grasslands also are being encroached by eastern redcedar, which can reduce the available forage for livestock, increase wildfire risk, reduce stream flow, and degrade wildlife habitat.

A voluntary, incentive-based approach will be used to improve habitat while sustaining resilient ranching communities. The goals are to build capacity, restore wetlands and streams, and remove trees using mechanical tree removal and prescribed fire.

These efforts will benefit the following at-risk species in Nebraska: the greater prairie-chicken, long-billed curlew, American burying beetle, regal fritillary, plains topminnow and western prairie fringed orchid.

Three new positions will be hired to lead the restoration efforts; they include a Nebraska grassland coordinator, prescribed fire coordinator and a project coordinator.

Game and Parks’ partners in the project are Pheasants Forever/Quail Forever, Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition, Northern Prairies Land Trust, Rainwater Basin Joint Venture, Sandhills Task Force, Santee Sioux Nation, and The Nature Conservancy.

The project includes several areas of the state, including the Santee Sioux Reservation, that connect to grasslands of South Dakota, Colorado and Kansas.

By Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and its partners have received a $4 million grant through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to restore grassland and wetland habitat for at-risk species.A four-year conservation project will take place in the Sandhills and adjacent areas, where wetlands and streams face alteration and channelization. Grasslands also are being encroached by eastern redcedar, which can reduce the available forage for livestock, increase wildfire risk, reduce stream flow, and degrade wildlife habitat.A voluntary, incentive-based approach will be used to improve habitat while sustaining resilient ranching communities. The goals are to build capacity, restore wetlands and streams, and remove trees using mechanical tree removal and prescribed fire.These efforts will benefit the following at-risk species in Nebraska: the greater prairie-chicken, long-billed curlew, American burying beetle, regal fritillary, plains topminnow and western prairie fringed orchid.Three new positions will be hired to lead the restoration efforts; they include a Nebraska grassland coordinator, prescribed fire coordinator and a project coordinator.Game and Parks’ partners in the project are Pheasants Forever/Quail Forever, Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition, Northern Prairies Land Trust, Rainwater Basin Joint Venture, Sandhills Task Force, Santee Sioux Nation, and The Nature Conservancy.The project includes several areas of the state, including the Santee Sioux Reservation, that connect to grasslands of South Dakota, Colorado and Kansas.

Game and Parks receives grant to restore grassland and wetland habitat

By MOLLY LANGHORST, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON – Three representatives of Chadron State College attended the ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute in San Diego in October. They are Taylor Osmotherly, Student Activities Coordinator, Gabi Pérez, Assistant Director of Admissions, and Student Senate President Olivia Bryant

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), founded in 1986, represents more than 500 school districts, colleges, and universities in the U.S., Latin America, and Spain. HACU is the only national association that represents Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).

The conference, titled Rebuilding a More Resilient and Inclusive America, was the first conference HACU was able to host in three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The CSC cohort said they learned a wide range of valuable information for CSC.

Bryant plans to present information from the conference to the CSC Student Senate and Campus Activities Board, as well as incorporate HACU information into her classwork and her job with Admissions. She also gained practical information by networking with students and staff from other institutions. She hopes to collaborate with fellow conference attendees to bring new perspectives and practices to CSC for underserved student populations.

One of the best takeaways for Osmotherly came from a session about building inclusive communities on college campuses, specifically with Latinx students.

“Currently there are a lot of lengthy processes for just about everything, and while some of these are good, some are hindering student engagement,” said Osmotherly. “I would also like to take initiative in celebrating different heritages, races, ethnicities, and languages, as well as expand Familia, a Spanish-speaking club on campus.”

Osmotherly said he believes the right resources could help high school and transfer students feel more at home in Chadron and make CSC more likely to be their college choice.

“A lot of campuses have resources, materials, and orientation days, sessions, and tours in Spanish,” Osmotherly said. “While a student has to be proficient in English to attend CSC, it would be cool for families and students to have resources in Spanish readily available to them.”

Perez gained a new perspective on inclusivity and accessibility to quality education.

“More than 45 percent of our students are first-generation students, so I would like to work with Project Strive, Student Affairs, and any department interested in developing supportive services to help these students feel like they belong,” Perez said.

She also gleaned information about internships from several conference sponsors with open jobs and internships that she is excited to share with interested CSC students.

Perez said the Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) session she attended focused on hiring practices and resources for first-generation students.

“Being a first-generation student myself, I attended the session because it holds a special place in my heart,” Perez said. “The session offered info on support services such as making an action team focused on support services from prospective students to alumni, staff, and faculty practices to better empathize with and support first-generation students, and programming to recognize those students.”

By MOLLY LANGHORST, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Three representatives of Chadron State College attended the ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute in San Diego in October. They are Taylor Osmotherly, Student Activities Coordinator, Gabi Pérez, Assistant Director of Admissions, and Student Senate President Olivia BryantThe Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), founded in 1986, represents more than 500 school districts, colleges, and universities in the U.S., Latin America, and Spain. HACU is the only national association that represents Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668645220704.jpeg" alt="Taylor Osmotherly, Student Activities Coordinator, Gabi Pérez, Assistant Director of Admissions, and Chadron State College Student Senate President Olivia Bryant pose Oct. 9, 2022, at the ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute in San Diego. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Taylor Osmotherly, Student Activities Coordinator, Gabi Pérez, Assistant Director of Admissions, and Chadron State College Student Senate President Olivia Bryant pose Oct. 9, 2022, at the ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute in San Diego. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>The conference, titled Rebuilding a More Resilient and Inclusive America, was the first conference HACU was able to host in three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.The CSC cohort said they learned a wide range of valuable information for CSC.Bryant plans to present information from the conference to the CSC Student Senate and Campus Activities Board, as well as incorporate HACU information into her classwork and her job with Admissions. She also gained practical information by networking with students and staff from other institutions. She hopes to collaborate with fellow conference attendees to bring new perspectives and practices to CSC for underserved student populations.One of the best takeaways for Osmotherly came from a session about building inclusive communities on college campuses, specifically with Latinx students.“Currently there are a lot of lengthy processes for just about everything, and while some of these are good, some are hindering student engagement,” said Osmotherly. “I would also like to take initiative in celebrating different heritages, races, ethnicities, and languages, as well as expand Familia, a Spanish-speaking club on campus.”Osmotherly said he believes the right resources could help high school and transfer students feel more at home in Chadron and make CSC more likely to be their college choice.“A lot of campuses have resources, materials, and orientation days, sessions, and tours in Spanish,” Osmotherly said. “While a student has to be proficient in English to attend CSC, it would be cool for families and students to have resources in Spanish readily available to them.”Perez gained a new perspective on inclusivity and accessibility to quality education.“More than 45 percent of our students are first-generation students, so I would like to work with Project Strive, Student Affairs, and any department interested in developing supportive services to help these students feel like they belong,” Perez said.She also gleaned information about internships from several conference sponsors with open jobs and internships that she is excited to share with interested CSC students.Perez said the Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) session she attended focused on hiring practices and resources for first-generation students.“Being a first-generation student myself, I attended the session because it holds a special place in my heart,” Perez said. “The session offered info on support services such as making an action team focused on support services from prospective students to alumni, staff, and faculty practices to better empathize with and support first-generation students, and programming to recognize those students.”

CSC sends three representatives to HACU Conference

Over the past year, Nebraska set an all-time high for employment.  Our rapid growth is creating thousands of great-paying jobs.  There are currently over 50,000 openings listed on the State’s job site: NEworks.Nebraska.gov.  That’s more than double the number of unemployed Nebraskans who are looking for work.

Our state’s historically strong labor market is great news for Nebraskans looking for their next career opportunity.  At the same time, it poses challenges for companies looking to hire great people.  In this labor market, employers must be creative to recruit and retain the talent they need to grow.

At the State, we’re partnering with schools, colleges, and businesses to grow our apprenticeship programs in Nebraska.  Apprenticeships strengthen Nebraska’s workforce by connecting students and individuals in career transition with the great career opportunities available across our state. 

For example, apprenticeship programs are helping construction companies find the workers they need to take on major projects.  Construction is booming in Nebraska.  Lincoln and Omaha set records for building permit value in 2021.  In Lincoln, the $1.2 billion of building permits in 2021 was $400 million higher than in any previous year.  We’ve grown our construction workforce from under 49,000 in 2014 to nearly 60,000 today.  Yet, the demand for skilled craftsmen has increased just as fast. 

Hawkins Construction has joined the State’s registered apprenticeship program to recruit and train construction craft laborers.  Hawkins is helping to grow Nebraska in big ways.  The company tackled some of the most challenging rebuilding projects the State faced after the 2019 floods, such as the Mormon Canal Bridge in Niobrara and the Highway 281 bridge near Spencer.  Currently, Hawkins is constructing the Lincoln South Beltway—a roadway our capital city has dreamed of for years.  To deliver these critical projects on time, Hawkins relies on a team of highly skilled workers.  Apprentices who sign on with Hawkins gain experience on Nebraska’s biggest infrastructure projects, while receiving classroom training from Hawkins teammates who are experts in their field.  At the same time, Hawkins benefits from having apprentices perform meaningful work to move projects forward.

Apprenticeships are also helping our healthcare industry address labor shortages.  The Nebraska Departments of Economic Development, Labor, and Health and Human Services are partnering with Bellevue University and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) on an innovative IT apprenticeship model called Ignite Nebraska.  It’s designed to introduce Nebraskans in North and South Omaha to careers in software development, computer programming, and database management.  Apprentices earn while they learn ($21/hour), are eligible for BCBSNE employee benefits, and receive free tuition.  They split their time between classroom training at Bellevue and on-the-job learning at BCBSNE.  After completing the 6-12 month program, apprentices can apply for full-time Associate Developer positions at BCBSNE.  The program is a gateway to great-paying IT careers for Nebraskans, and it’s helping Blue Cross find skilled talent to further integrate technology into healthcare.

Nebraska’s high schools and colleges play a key role in the State’s apprenticeship programs, partnering with local employers to offer rewarding apprenticeship opportunities.  Student apprentices get paid to learn their trade, earn course credits, and gain nationally recognized credentials.  Stefany Gomez is a great example of a young leader who has developed sought-after skills through apprenticeships.  Stefany took part in Grand Island’s Career Pathways Institute (machining pathway) and also apprenticed at CNH while in high school.  She’s now attending Central Community College in Hastings and apprenticing with Hornady Manufacturing.  In May 2022, she won the Nebraska state championship at the SkillsUSA competition for her proficiency as a CNC milling specialist.  This year, the State invested $60 million of federal funding to help our community colleges add capacity.  Additionally, a coalition of Nebraska community colleges won a $4 million federal grant this summer to increase the availability of apprenticeships.

At the State, we’ve designed a customized apprenticeship program to grow our corrections workforce.  In 2020, the Nebraska Legislature approved my recommendation to launch a workforce education partnership between Peru State College and the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services to help more Nebraskans find opportunities in the field of public safety.  The Corrections Leadership Scholarship Program is tailored to students interested in careers in criminal justice, with a focus on corrections leadership.  Student apprentices receive on-the-job training that prepares them to take on key roles at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution.  The initiative has made an important contribution to our success growing the State’s corrections workforce.  It’s exactly the kind of creative approach we need to prepare for our future workforce needs as well as to keep Nebraska’s graduates here for their careers.  It’s also setting an example nationally for how corrections agencies and colleges can collaborate.

I have proclaimed November 14-20, 2022, as Apprenticeship Awareness Week in Nebraska to highlight the many ways apprenticeships are helping us build a world-class workforce in Nebraska.  Over the past year, we’ve seen rapid growth in our registered apprenticeship programs.  In federal fiscal year (FFY) 2022, we added more new employers to our apprenticeship program than in FFYs 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 combined!  There are now more than 4,000 active apprentices in Nebraska.  If your business is interested in launching an apprenticeship program, please contact the Nebraska Department of Labor at ndol.apprenticeship@nebraska.gov.  If you have questions about the State’s ongoing work to connect Nebraskans to great-paying careers, please contact me at pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov or 402-471-2244.

By Gov. Pete RickettsOver the past year, Nebraska set an all-time high for employment. Our rapid growth is creating thousands of great-paying jobs. There are currently over 50,000 openings listed on the State’s job site: NEworks.Nebraska.gov. That’s more than double the number of unemployed Nebraskans who are looking for work.Our state’s historically strong labor market is great news for Nebraskans looking for their next career opportunity. At the same time, it poses challenges for companies looking to hire great people. In this labor market, employers must be creative to recruit and retain the talent they need to grow.At the State, we’re partnering with schools, colleges, and businesses to grow our apprenticeship programs in Nebraska. Apprenticeships strengthen Nebraska’s workforce by connecting students and individuals in career transition with the great career opportunities available across our state. For example, apprenticeship programs are helping construction companies find the workers they need to take on major projects. Construction is booming in Nebraska. Lincoln and Omaha set records for building permit value in 2021. In Lincoln, the $1.2 billion of building permits in 2021 was $400 million higher than in any previous year. We’ve grown our construction workforce from under 49,000 in 2014 to nearly 60,000 today. Yet, the demand for skilled craftsmen has increased just as fast. Hawkins Construction has joined the State’s registered apprenticeship program to recruit and train construction craft laborers. Hawkins is helping to grow Nebraska in big ways. The company tackled some of the most challenging rebuilding projects the State faced after the 2019 floods, such as the Mormon Canal Bridge in Niobrara and the Highway 281 bridge near Spencer. Currently, Hawkins is constructing the Lincoln South Beltway—a roadway our capital city has dreamed of for years. To deliver these critical projects on time, Hawkins relies on a team of highly skilled workers. Apprentices who sign on with Hawkins gain experience on Nebraska’s biggest infrastructure projects, while receiving classroom training from Hawkins teammates who are experts in their field. At the same time, Hawkins benefits from having apprentices perform meaningful work to move projects forward.Apprenticeships are also helping our healthcare industry address labor shortages. The Nebraska Departments of Economic Development, Labor, and Health and Human Services are partnering with Bellevue University and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) on an innovative IT apprenticeship model called Ignite Nebraska. It’s designed to introduce Nebraskans in North and South Omaha to careers in software development, computer programming, and database management. Apprentices earn while they learn ($21/hour), are eligible for BCBSNE employee benefits, and receive free tuition. They split their time between classroom training at Bellevue and on-the-job learning at BCBSNE. After completing the 6-12 month program, apprentices can apply for full-time Associate Developer positions at BCBSNE. The program is a gateway to great-paying IT careers for Nebraskans, and it’s helping Blue Cross find skilled talent to further integrate technology into healthcare.Nebraska’s high schools and colleges play a key role in the State’s apprenticeship programs, partnering with local employers to offer rewarding apprenticeship opportunities. Student apprentices get paid to learn their trade, earn course credits, and gain nationally recognized credentials. Stefany Gomez is a great example of a young leader who has developed sought-after skills through apprenticeships. Stefany took part in Grand Island’s Career Pathways Institute (machining pathway) and also apprenticed at CNH while in high school. She’s now attending Central Community College in Hastings and apprenticing with Hornady Manufacturing. In May 2022, she won the Nebraska state championship at the SkillsUSA competition for her proficiency as a CNC milling specialist. This year, the State invested $60 million of federal funding to help our community colleges add capacity. Additionally, a coalition of Nebraska community colleges won a $4 million federal grant this summer to increase the availability of apprenticeships.At the State, we’ve designed a customized apprenticeship program to grow our corrections workforce. In 2020, the Nebraska Legislature approved my recommendation to launch a workforce education partnership between Peru State College and the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services to help more Nebraskans find opportunities in the field of public safety. The Corrections Leadership Scholarship Program is tailored to students interested in careers in criminal justice, with a focus on corrections leadership. Student apprentices receive on-the-job training that prepares them to take on key roles at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution. The initiative has made an important contribution to our success growing the State’s corrections workforce. It’s exactly the kind of creative approach we need to prepare for our future workforce needs as well as to keep Nebraska’s graduates here for their careers. It’s also setting an example nationally for how corrections agencies and colleges can collaborate.I have proclaimed November 14-20, 2022, as Apprenticeship Awareness Week in Nebraska to highlight the many ways apprenticeships are helping us build a world-class workforce in Nebraska. Over the past year, we’ve seen rapid growth in our registered apprenticeship programs. In federal fiscal year (FFY) 2022, we added more new employers to our apprenticeship program than in FFYs 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 combined! There are now more than 4,000 active apprentices in Nebraska. If your business is interested in launching an apprenticeship program, please contact the Nebraska Department of Labor at ndol.apprenticeship@nebraska.gov. If you have questions about the State’s ongoing work to connect Nebraskans to great-paying careers, please contact me at pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov or 402-471-2244.

Ricketts: Developing Nebraska’s next generation of workplace leaders

The Chadron Police Department is beginning their Turkeys for Tickets program again this year for 2022. This program allows the police officers to opt to issue a turkey to a motorist instead of a ticket for minor traffic violations. The program focuses on traffic safety, but also provides an officer with a different option of enforcement and the motorist with something that may help them out during the holiday season. The turkey can be used by the recipient or the turkey can be paid forward by the motorist to the next traffic stop by the officer.

Traditionally, the Thanksgiving holiday marks the beginning of the busy holiday driving period, and continues through the New Year. The Chadron Police are urging the motoring public to adhere to the rules of the road, particularly when drinking and driving are involved. Motorists who consume alcohol should consider an alternative means of transportation. Additionally, remember;

· Do not drink and drive, designate a sober driver

· Buckle up and make sure that all vehicle occupants are properly restrained

· Pay attention to the weather and road conditions

· Slow down and obey posted speed limits

· Avoid distractions such as cell phone use

From all of us at the Chadron Police Department we wish you a very happy, healthy and safe holiday season.

Thank you to the Chadron Walmart and other anonymous sponsors of this program.

By Chadron Police Department<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668629147959.jpeg" alt="Photo from&nbsp; Chadron Police Department Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>Photo from&nbsp; Chadron Police Department Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>The Chadron Police Department is beginning their Turkeys for Tickets program again this year for 2022. This program allows the police officers to opt to issue a turkey to a motorist instead of a ticket for minor traffic violations. The program focuses on traffic safety, but also provides an officer with a different option of enforcement and the motorist with something that may help them out during the holiday season. The turkey can be used by the recipient or the turkey can be paid forward by the motorist to the next traffic stop by the officer.Traditionally, the Thanksgiving holiday marks the beginning of the busy holiday driving period, and continues through the New Year. The Chadron Police are urging the motoring public to adhere to the rules of the road, particularly when drinking and driving are involved. Motorists who consume alcohol should consider an alternative means of transportation. Additionally, remember;· Do not drink and drive, designate a sober driver· Buckle up and make sure that all vehicle occupants are properly restrained· Pay attention to the weather and road conditions· Slow down and obey posted speed limits· Avoid distractions such as cell phone useFrom all of us at the Chadron Police Department we wish you a very happy, healthy and safe holiday season.Thank you to the Chadron Walmart and other anonymous sponsors of this program.

Chadron police 'Turkeys for Tickets' begins this week 

Alliance – The Alliance Public Library is hosting a Holiday Extravaganza for youth, preschool age through grade 12, on Monday, December 5 from 4 to 5:30 pm. in the Community Room. Create a project based on your favorite holiday book with craft supplies that will be provided. Before the event, be sure to stop by the library and see what’s in our holiday collection. You might discover some new favorites!

We look forward to having you join us and ask that children under the age of 10 be accompanied by a responsible adult.

For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at (308) 762-1387.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The Alliance Public Library is hosting a Holiday Extravaganza for youth, preschool age through grade 12, on Monday, December 5 from 4 to 5:30 pm. in the Community Room. Create a project based on your favorite holiday book with craft supplies that will be provided. Before the event, be sure to stop by the library and see what’s in our holiday collection. You might discover some new favorites!We look forward to having you join us and ask that children under the age of 10 be accompanied by a responsible adult.For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at (308) 762-1387.

Holiday Extravaganza to be held at Alliance Public Library

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 11/16/22

Items on the agenda of the 11/15/22 Alliance City Council meeting are discussed.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jyyuc-1316e6a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Items on the agenda of the 11/15/22 Alliance City Council meeting are discussed.

POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson

By George Ledbetter, Chadron State College

CHADRON – Participation in the Momentum Institute of the Student Basic Needs Coalition (SBNC), has been an opportunity to advocate for students who face barriers in their educational careers, according to Olivia Bryant from Anselmo, Nebraska, a Chadron State College senior who is preparing for a career in higher education.

Founded at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 2019, SBNC is a non-profit, student-focused organization working to create a higher education system accessible to students from all economic and social backgrounds. The organization grew rapidly to include colleges and universities in 15 states and has impacted more than 90,000 students, Bryant said. SBNC’s initial focus on students facing food insecurity has been expanded to include other college issues such as cost, inadequate preparation, mental health, and homelessness.

Bryant learned about the Momentum Institute through a CSC email and applied for membership in June. She interviewed with program leaders in August and attended the first of the Institute’s 10 weekly sessions in September. Among the other nine in the cohort are students from the University of Virginia, Yale, Indiana State, and the University of Washington.

Work as an intern in the CSC Admissions Department developed Bryant’s interest in the barriers limiting access to higher education and participation in the Institute has brought her in contact with issues that affect students she knows.

“Many of their obstacles surround the cost of education, lack of education about the college system, issues at home, or mental health,” she said.

Though she has not personally experienced significant barriers in her educational career, Bryant said her work as student intern and her role as president of the CSC Student Senate create the opportunity to become a champion for those who face barriers in their educational careers.

“Because I have been fortunate in my higher education journey, I think it’s important that I use my circumstances and positions on campus to help other students,” she said.

The Momentum Institute program primarily acts as a resource and guide to advocating for higher education, Bryant said.

“The program focuses on asset mapping, writing policy, campaign planning, testifying, and holding press conferences,” she said.

Bryant will graduate in May with a degree in communications and plans to attend graduate school for communications studies. She hopes to become a college teacher or do research work.

For her intended career path, it is important to know the obstacles and struggles of students who are seeking an education, Bryant said.

“I believe this fellowship opportunity will continue to expand my mindset as I begin teaching and working toward a possible Ph.D.,” she said.

Though she believes higher education should be a right for all, Bryant doesn’t think that means college should be free.

“Still, eliminating education disparities should be at the forefront of all higher education conversations,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By George Ledbetter, Chadron State College<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668615194645.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College Student Senate President Olivia Bryant of Anselmo, Neb., is participating in the 2022 Momentum Institute of the Student Basic Needs Coalition. The institute teaches those enrolled how to advocate for students who face barriers in their educational careers. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College Student Senate President Olivia Bryant of Anselmo, Neb., is participating in the 2022 Momentum Institute of the Student Basic Needs Coalition. The institute teaches those enrolled how to advocate for students who face barriers in their educational careers. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – Participation in the Momentum Institute of the Student Basic Needs Coalition (SBNC), has been an opportunity to advocate for students who face barriers in their educational careers, according to Olivia Bryant from Anselmo, Nebraska, a Chadron State College senior who is preparing for a career in higher education.Founded at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 2019, SBNC is a non-profit, student-focused organization working to create a higher education system accessible to students from all economic and social backgrounds. The organization grew rapidly to include colleges and universities in 15 states and has impacted more than 90,000 students, Bryant said. SBNC’s initial focus on students facing food insecurity has been expanded to include other college issues such as cost, inadequate preparation, mental health, and homelessness.Bryant learned about the Momentum Institute through a CSC email and applied for membership in June. She interviewed with program leaders in August and attended the first of the Institute’s 10 weekly sessions in September. Among the other nine in the cohort are students from the University of Virginia, Yale, Indiana State, and the University of Washington.Work as an intern in the CSC Admissions Department developed Bryant’s interest in the barriers limiting access to higher education and participation in the Institute has brought her in contact with issues that affect students she knows.“Many of their obstacles surround the cost of education, lack of education about the college system, issues at home, or mental health,” she said.Though she has not personally experienced significant barriers in her educational career, Bryant said her work as student intern and her role as president of the CSC Student Senate create the opportunity to become a champion for those who face barriers in their educational careers.“Because I have been fortunate in my higher education journey, I think it’s important that I use my circumstances and positions on campus to help other students,” she said.The Momentum Institute program primarily acts as a resource and guide to advocating for higher education, Bryant said.“The program focuses on asset mapping, writing policy, campaign planning, testifying, and holding press conferences,” she said.Bryant will graduate in May with a degree in communications and plans to attend graduate school for communications studies. She hopes to become a college teacher or do research work.For her intended career path, it is important to know the obstacles and struggles of students who are seeking an education, Bryant said.“I believe this fellowship opportunity will continue to expand my mindset as I begin teaching and working toward a possible Ph.D.,” she said.Though she believes higher education should be a right for all, Bryant doesn’t think that means college should be free.“Still, eliminating education disparities should be at the forefront of all higher education conversations,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

CSC Student Senate Pres. enrolls in institute advocating for education access

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Last week Nebraskans voted for a state Constitutional amendment to raise the minimum wage. Our current minimum wage of $9.00 an hour will increase in increments to $15.00 an hour by 2026. This vote means that more than 10,000 residents, including 3,500 children, will be lifted out of poverty.

On January 1, 2023, the minimum wage will go up to $10.50. On January 1, 2024, it will become $12.00. On January 1, 2025, $13.50. $15.00 will come into effect on January 1, 2026. Finally, on January 1, 2027, and on January 1 of successive years, minimum wage will be raised by the increase in the cost of living, rounded up to the nearest 5¢.

The Constitutional amendment did not change the hourly rate for tipped employees of $2.13 an hour. However, if the sum of their wages and gratuities (tips) do not exceed the minimum wage, the employer must make up the difference.

Student learners in a bona-fide vocational training program (like Cooperative Education at Alliance High School) only need to be paid 75% of minimum wage.

According to an analysis by Open Sky Policy Institute, this amendment will increase wages for about 30% of Nebraskans and lift thousands out of poverty by the time the amendment is fully implemented. Open Sky is a non-partisan organization that studies economic issues being considered by the Nebraska Legislature, offering clear fiscal research and analysis.

Their research shows that about 30% of the Nebraska workforce – 287,319 workers – would be positively affected by increasing the minimum wage. The minimum-wage Nebraska worker, who is currently earning $18,000 a year for full-time work ($1,500 a month) would receive an estimated annual increase of $3,000 per year. The average increase, factoring in part-time work, will be $2,400 per year.

Who earns minimum wage? Women, teenagers, and people of color. Open Sky analysis finds almost half of Nebraska’s Black workers, three out of five Latinx workers, and two out of five Asian workers would receive raises if the minimum wage were increased to $15 an hour. More than one in five white workers also would see a wage increase under the initiative.

Opponents to the increase in minimum wage argued that rural communities will be hit especially hard by this increase, because small businesses and franchise owners cannot afford to pay those hourly wage rates. They may have to lay off employees and raise prices to meet this new requirement. This is true.

The other concern offered by opponents to the minimum wage increase is that it is inflationary, and we are already having a problem with inflation. Open Sky cites research from the Economic

Policy Institute, showing that raising the minimum wage to $15 over five years would increase overall price levels by less than 0.1% per year.

We have to remember that low-income people are the hardest hit by inflation. All their earnings are being used to buy necessities like food, rent, or gas. They simply cannot survive without the government's social safety net of assistance programs. People working full time should not need to be on government assistance!

The goal of the minimum wage amendment is that low-wage earners will have more money to spend locally and will be better able to support their families. Our tax burden should decrease with fewer people on assistance. The ultimate outcome is that this should grow Nebraska's economy and improve life for all of us.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityLast week Nebraskans voted for a state Constitutional amendment to raise the minimum wage. Our current minimum wage of $9.00 an hour will increase in increments to $15.00 an hour by 2026. This vote means that more than 10,000 residents, including 3,500 children, will be lifted out of poverty.On January 1, 2023, the minimum wage will go up to $10.50. On January 1, 2024, it will become $12.00. On January 1, 2025, $13.50. $15.00 will come into effect on January 1, 2026. Finally, on January 1, 2027, and on January 1 of successive years, minimum wage will be raised by the increase in the cost of living, rounded up to the nearest 5¢.The Constitutional amendment did not change the hourly rate for tipped employees of $2.13 an hour. However, if the sum of their wages and gratuities (tips) do not exceed the minimum wage, the employer must make up the difference.Student learners in a bona-fide vocational training program (like Cooperative Education at Alliance High School) only need to be paid 75% of minimum wage.According to an analysis by Open Sky Policy Institute, this amendment will increase wages for about 30% of Nebraskans and lift thousands out of poverty by the time the amendment is fully implemented. Open Sky is a non-partisan organization that studies economic issues being considered by the Nebraska Legislature, offering clear fiscal research and analysis.Their research shows that about 30% of the Nebraska workforce – 287,319 workers – would be positively affected by increasing the minimum wage. The minimum-wage Nebraska worker, who is currently earning $18,000 a year for full-time work ($1,500 a month) would receive an estimated annual increase of $3,000 per year. The average increase, factoring in part-time work, will be $2,400 per year.Who earns minimum wage? Women, teenagers, and people of color. Open Sky analysis finds almost half of Nebraska’s Black workers, three out of five Latinx workers, and two out of five Asian workers would receive raises if the minimum wage were increased to $15 an hour. More than one in five white workers also would see a wage increase under the initiative.Opponents to the increase in minimum wage argued that rural communities will be hit especially hard by this increase, because small businesses and franchise owners cannot afford to pay those hourly wage rates. They may have to lay off employees and raise prices to meet this new requirement. This is true.The other concern offered by opponents to the minimum wage increase is that it is inflationary, and we are already having a problem with inflation. Open Sky cites research from the EconomicPolicy Institute, showing that raising the minimum wage to $15 over five years would increase overall price levels by less than 0.1% per year.We have to remember that low-income people are the hardest hit by inflation. All their earnings are being used to buy necessities like food, rent, or gas. They simply cannot survive without the government's social safety net of assistance programs. People working full time should not need to be on government assistance!The goal of the minimum wage amendment is that low-wage earners will have more money to spend locally and will be better able to support their families. Our tax burden should decrease with fewer people on assistance. The ultimate outcome is that this should grow Nebraska's economy and improve life for all of us.

Getting Ahead: Raising minimum wage

By Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Are you a collector of the NPS park brochures? You must check out the unique audio described version! Mainly for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, audio description is a method of taking visual images and print and turning them into verbal descriptions.&nbsp;

The UniDescription Project is grant-funded out of the University of Hawaii and provides training and data-driven research information for audio description. The founding member, Dr. Brett Oppegard, worked with Michele Hartley from the National Park Service to determine a way to efficiently audio describe the over 400 highly detailed park brochures. Enter the Descriptathon – an intense, 3-day, gamified way to learn about audio description with the end goal of a complete audio version of the park’s brochure.&nbsp;

The staff of Agate Fossil Beds National Monument spent several days in late October with “Team Beardog” for Descriptathon 9. Our team also included volunteers from other park sites and members of the American Council of the Blind. We learned the art of description, practiced it with challenges that pitted us against other national park teams in single elimination tournaments, then focused our new skills on our own brochure.&nbsp;

“Wow! What an awesome and inviting brochure! All those early mornings filled with concentration and laughter and teamwork!” says Team Beardog and American Council of the Blind member Susan Glass. &nbsp;

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument placed 7th&nbsp;out of 16 teams and 3 of the members earned the honors of top 20 individual contributors. The real prize, however, is the complete audio-described version of the brochure! It’s available on the UniDescription app in iOS or Android formats. It’s also on our website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/park-brochure.htm" target="_blank">https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/park-brochure.htm</a>.&nbsp;

Admission to Agate Fossil Beds is always free. Please visit and check out other accessible items such as Braille brochures and exhibit text in large print. &nbsp;

For more information, contact the park at 308-665-4113.&nbsp;

&nbsp; Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is located 34 miles north of Mitchell, NE or 22 miles south of Harrison, NE on Highway 29 and 3 miles east on River Rd. The Visitor Center summer hours are 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and the trails are open from dawn until dusk. Visit us at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/agfo" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/agfo</a>&nbsp;and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.&nbsp; &nbsp;

By Agate Fossil Beds National MonumentAre you a collector of the NPS park brochures? You must check out the unique audio described version! Mainly for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, audio description is a method of taking visual images and print and turning them into verbal descriptions.&nbsp;The UniDescription Project is grant-funded out of the University of Hawaii and provides training and data-driven research information for audio description. The founding member, Dr. Brett Oppegard, worked with Michele Hartley from the National Park Service to determine a way to efficiently audio describe the over 400 highly detailed park brochures. Enter the Descriptathon – an intense, 3-day, gamified way to learn about audio description with the end goal of a complete audio version of the park’s brochure.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668560636814.jpeg" alt="Two Agate rangers participate in Descriptathon 9." />
 <figcaption>Two Agate rangers participate in Descriptathon 9.</figcaption>
 </figure>The staff of Agate Fossil Beds National Monument spent several days in late October with “Team Beardog” for Descriptathon 9. Our team also included volunteers from other park sites and members of the American Council of the Blind. We learned the art of description, practiced it with challenges that pitted us against other national park teams in single elimination tournaments, then focused our new skills on our own brochure.&nbsp;“Wow! What an awesome and inviting brochure! All those early mornings filled with concentration and laughter and teamwork!” says Team Beardog and American Council of the Blind member Susan Glass. &nbsp;Agate Fossil Beds National Monument placed 7th&nbsp;out of 16 teams and 3 of the members earned the honors of top 20 individual contributors. The real prize, however, is the complete audio-described version of the brochure! It’s available on the UniDescription app in iOS or Android formats. It’s also on our website at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/park-brochure.htm" target="_blank">https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/park-brochure.htm</a>.&nbsp;Admission to Agate Fossil Beds is always free. Please visit and check out other accessible items such as Braille brochures and exhibit text in large print. &nbsp;For more information, contact the park at 308-665-4113.&nbsp;&nbsp; Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is located 34 miles north of Mitchell, NE or 22 miles south of Harrison, NE on Highway 29 and 3 miles east on River Rd. The Visitor Center summer hours are 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and the trails are open from dawn until dusk. Visit us at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/agfo" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/agfo</a>&nbsp;and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Agate Fossil Beds N. M. partners with UniDescription to create audio brochure 

By GEORGE LEDBETTER, Chadron State College

CHADRON – Selection as the 2022 Outstanding Teacher for the Third District by the Nebraska State Council for the Social Studies is the latest recognition Chadron State College graduate Michael Sandstrom has received in his career as a secondary school educator.&nbsp;

A history teacher at Chadron High School, Sandstrom was surprised when he received the award in his classroom in early October from the council’s co-president Katrina Gotschall.

“I was a little embarrassed,” he said. “The students were generally excited and very kind in their praise.”

Sandstrom earned a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education from CSC in 2012 and a master’s in History Education in 2019. A Chadron native, he taught history at a high school in Colorado before taking the position at Chadron High.

In 2019, Sandstrom was selected as Nebraska History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. He received History Nebraska’s Excellence in Teaching Award in 2021 and was a finalist for the Nebraska Department of Education Teacher of the Year award.

“I loved my time in the Chadron State College social science department,” said Sandstrom.&nbsp; “Almost every professor made a large impact on my development. They provided me with the foundation for every single success I have had as a teacher. They all demonstrated a huge dedication to their subject matter and, above all, competence.”&nbsp;

The teaching methods that have helped Sandstrom receive recognition include use of primary sources to connect students with the history of their community. He also emphasizes the use of local resources to make national issues students study in class relevant to their daily lives.

Research in the Dawes County Museum archives about Depression-era government policies, for instance, provided a way for Sandstrom to show students how President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal programs led to major improvements of the facilities at Chadron State Park. Two articles he wrote about the subject were published in the Nebraska History Magazine in 2021.

The history of the U.S. Constitution is another focus of Sandstrom’s teaching, and a subject he believes is important no matter what political beliefs a person holds.

“You cannot understand your own position on our political systems without understanding the foundations and history of the U.S. Constitution,” he said. “I believe you need to understand how we started to understand how you can properly affect change in our system.”

Constitutional studies have also created professional development opportunities. In 2015, Sandstrom received a James Madison Memorial Foundation fellowship, a U.S. Department of Education-sponsored award that helps outstanding secondary school teachers further their education into subjects related to the Constitution. From 2017 to 2019, Sandstrom was among a small group of secondary school teachers from across the country selected for the Teachers Council of the Virginia-based Bill of Rights Institute (BRI). He was again selected for the council this year.&nbsp;

BRI Council membership includes monthly meetings with other teachers and projects that expand knowledge and introduce new teaching tools, Sandstrom said.

“The council exposes me to different ideas and approaches. I gain a lot from my fellow teachers around the country,” he said.&nbsp;

Inspired by his teachers in Chadron, Sandstrom said he decided while still in high school to pursue a career in social science education.

“Those subjects always spoke to me,” he said. “Understanding how and why humans act the way they do always interested me. And teaching high school students is rewarding, because they have a degree of maturity, but still need the influence of adults. I find it a tremendous challenge, but one that is overall enjoyable,” said Sandstrom.

By GEORGE LEDBETTER, Chadron State College<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668543338762.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – Selection as the 2022 Outstanding Teacher for the Third District by the Nebraska State Council for the Social Studies is the latest recognition Chadron State College graduate Michael Sandstrom has received in his career as a secondary school educator.&nbsp;A history teacher at Chadron High School, Sandstrom was surprised when he received the award in his classroom in early October from the council’s co-president Katrina Gotschall.“I was a little embarrassed,” he said. “The students were generally excited and very kind in their praise.”Sandstrom earned a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education from CSC in 2012 and a master’s in History Education in 2019. A Chadron native, he taught history at a high school in Colorado before taking the position at Chadron High.In 2019, Sandstrom was selected as Nebraska History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. He received History Nebraska’s Excellence in Teaching Award in 2021 and was a finalist for the Nebraska Department of Education Teacher of the Year award.“I loved my time in the Chadron State College social science department,” said Sandstrom.&nbsp; “Almost every professor made a large impact on my development. They provided me with the foundation for every single success I have had as a teacher. They all demonstrated a huge dedication to their subject matter and, above all, competence.”&nbsp;The teaching methods that have helped Sandstrom receive recognition include use of primary sources to connect students with the history of their community. He also emphasizes the use of local resources to make national issues students study in class relevant to their daily lives.Research in the Dawes County Museum archives about Depression-era government policies, for instance, provided a way for Sandstrom to show students how President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal programs led to major improvements of the facilities at Chadron State Park. Two articles he wrote about the subject were published in the Nebraska History Magazine in 2021.The history of the U.S. Constitution is another focus of Sandstrom’s teaching, and a subject he believes is important no matter what political beliefs a person holds.“You cannot understand your own position on our political systems without understanding the foundations and history of the U.S. Constitution,” he said. “I believe you need to understand how we started to understand how you can properly affect change in our system.”Constitutional studies have also created professional development opportunities. In 2015, Sandstrom received a James Madison Memorial Foundation fellowship, a U.S. Department of Education-sponsored award that helps outstanding secondary school teachers further their education into subjects related to the Constitution. From 2017 to 2019, Sandstrom was among a small group of secondary school teachers from across the country selected for the Teachers Council of the Virginia-based Bill of Rights Institute (BRI). He was again selected for the council this year.&nbsp;BRI Council membership includes monthly meetings with other teachers and projects that expand knowledge and introduce new teaching tools, Sandstrom said.“The council exposes me to different ideas and approaches. I gain a lot from my fellow teachers around the country,” he said.&nbsp;Inspired by his teachers in Chadron, Sandstrom said he decided while still in high school to pursue a career in social science education.“Those subjects always spoke to me,” he said. “Understanding how and why humans act the way they do always interested me. And teaching high school students is rewarding, because they have a degree of maturity, but still need the influence of adults. I find it a tremendous challenge, but one that is overall enjoyable,” said Sandstrom.

Chadron graduate recognized for teaching excellence

NORTH PLATTE, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol are working overtime to keep motorists and road crews safe through localized enforcement efforts in multiple parts of the state. This effort includes specific enforcement operations in the Nebraska Panhandle and other areas of western Nebraska.

In October, troopers in Troop E focused specifically on excessive speeding in Kimball County. During the operation, troopers issued more than 250 citations or warnings for speeding in the area. Troopers issued more than 100 citations to drivers traveling at least 10 miles per hour over the speed limit. Thirteen motorists were driving at or above 100 miles per hour.

This effort was made possible thanks in part to a grant for $7,080 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

This month, troopers in Troop D are performing high-visibility patrols in and around construction zones in western Nebraska. Troopers have observed an increase of speeding in construction zones in the area in recent months, leading to this specific operation.

“All drivers need to stay alert in roadway work zones,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Lane shifts, reduced speed limits, and the presence of construction crews all require the attention of drivers. You can help keep those crews and your fellow motorists safe by slowing down, putting your phone down, and keeping your focus on the road.”

The Troop D effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $3,540 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;NORTH PLATTE, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol are working overtime to keep motorists and road crews safe through localized enforcement efforts in multiple parts of the state. This effort includes specific enforcement operations in the Nebraska Panhandle and other areas of western Nebraska.In October, troopers in Troop E focused specifically on excessive speeding in Kimball County. During the operation, troopers issued more than 250 citations or warnings for speeding in the area. Troopers issued more than 100 citations to drivers traveling at least 10 miles per hour over the speed limit. Thirteen motorists were driving at or above 100 miles per hour.This effort was made possible thanks in part to a grant for $7,080 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.This month, troopers in Troop D are performing high-visibility patrols in and around construction zones in western Nebraska. Troopers have observed an increase of speeding in construction zones in the area in recent months, leading to this specific operation.“All drivers need to stay alert in roadway work zones,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Lane shifts, reduced speed limits, and the presence of construction crews all require the attention of drivers. You can help keep those crews and your fellow motorists safe by slowing down, putting your phone down, and keeping your focus on the road.”The Troop D effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $3,540 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Troopers conducting special enforcement efforts in western Nebraska

ALLIANCE- 13 young ladies from across the state gathered on Saturday night to compete in the Best of the West Competition in Alliance.  Walking away with the title of Miss Alliance 2023 was Desteny Miller, daughter of Brandon and Cherry Wulf of Arapahoe, Nebraska.  Miller was also voted Miss Congeniality and named the Miss audience choice winner.

Baylee Drewry was named first-runner-up to Miss Alliance and also placed second place in the Miss community service competition.  Ms Drewry is a freshman at Chadron State College and the daughter of Scott and Brandi Drewry of Basin, Wyoming.  Chadron State College student Cheyenne Bacon, daughter of Roger Bacon of Lewellen, earned first place in the Miss community service competition. 

Your 2023 Outstanding Teens are Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen 2023, Boston Pettera, daughter of Tanner and Jolene Pettera of North Platte; Miss Chadron’s Outstanding Teen 2023, Arielle Lawrence, granddaughter of Jeff and Julie Lawrence of Hemingford; and Miss Panhandle’s Outstanding Teen 2023, Jordan Wagner, daughter of Brad and Aleece Wagner of

Bridgeport.  Pettera was voted teen audience choice winner while Wagner earned 2nd place in the outstanding teen community service competition.

Scottsbluff freshman Addison Peck, daughter of Jeffrey and Bridget Peck, was named the first runner-up to the outstanding teens and Emma-Claire Fritz, daughter of Myra-Katherine Fritz, Mike Pruss, and Greg Fritz of Fremont, was voted teen Miss Congeniality.  Addison Dauel, daughter of Aaron and Brenda Dauel of Gretna, won first place teen community service.  

Along with representing their titles for the year, the 2023 titleholders will now advance to the Miss Nebraska and Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen competitions held in North Platte in June of 2023.  For more information on the competition or for appearance information on any of the 2023 titleholders, please contact Riki Hunter at 308-430-4355. 

News releaseALLIANCE- 13 young ladies from across the state gathered on Saturday night to compete in the Best of the West Competition in Alliance. Walking away with the title of Miss Alliance 2023 was Desteny Miller, daughter of Brandon and Cherry Wulf of Arapahoe, Nebraska. Miller was also voted Miss Congeniality and named the Miss audience choice winner.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668533598618.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Miss Panhandle's Outstanding Teen 2023 Jordan Wagner; Miss Alliance's Outstanding Teen 2023 Boston Pettera; Miss Alliance 2023 Desteny Miller; Miss Chadron's Outstanding Teen 2023 Arielle Lawrence.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Miss Panhandle's Outstanding Teen 2023 Jordan Wagner; Miss Alliance's Outstanding Teen 2023 Boston Pettera; Miss Alliance 2023 Desteny Miller; Miss Chadron's Outstanding Teen 2023 Arielle Lawrence.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Baylee Drewry was named first-runner-up to Miss Alliance and also placed second place in the Miss community service competition. Ms Drewry is a freshman at Chadron State College and the daughter of Scott and Brandi Drewry of Basin, Wyoming. Chadron State College student Cheyenne Bacon, daughter of Roger Bacon of Lewellen, earned first place in the Miss community service competition. Your 2023 Outstanding Teens are Miss Alliance’s Outstanding Teen 2023, Boston Pettera, daughter of Tanner and Jolene Pettera of North Platte; Miss Chadron’s Outstanding Teen 2023, Arielle Lawrence, granddaughter of Jeff and Julie Lawrence of Hemingford; and Miss Panhandle’s Outstanding Teen 2023, Jordan Wagner, daughter of Brad and Aleece Wagner ofBridgeport. Pettera was voted teen audience choice winner while Wagner earned 2nd place in the outstanding teen community service competition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668533625299.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Scottsbluff freshman Addison Peck, daughter of Jeffrey and Bridget Peck, was named the first runner-up to the outstanding teens and Emma-Claire Fritz, daughter of Myra-Katherine Fritz, Mike Pruss, and Greg Fritz of Fremont, was voted teen Miss Congeniality. Addison Dauel, daughter of Aaron and Brenda Dauel of Gretna, won first place teen community service. Along with representing their titles for the year, the 2023 titleholders will now advance to the Miss Nebraska and Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen competitions held in North Platte in June of 2023. For more information on the competition or for appearance information on any of the 2023 titleholders, please contact Riki Hunter at 308-430-4355.

2023 Miss and Outstanding Teens crowned in Alliance

Karen Benzel discusses holiday gift basket distribution and gives a progress report on United Way's annual fundraising goal.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=bvacv-13154fe-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Karen Benzel discusses holiday gift basket distribution and gives a progress report on United Way's annual fundraising goal.

POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska

Wellness Director Dan Newhoff discusses the Community Health Needs Assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: BBGH" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2h5xa-13154df-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Wellness Director Dan Newhoff discusses the Community Health Needs Assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

POST PODCAST: BBGH

By Kyren Gibson, Carnegie Arts Center

Carnegie is pleased to announce the arrival of the new exhibit&nbsp;Journey&nbsp;by Artist Linda Dabbs. The exhibit will be on display in the Garwood and Skala upper galleries and will exhibit from November 1st&nbsp;through December 3rd.&nbsp;Come view the beautiful colors and textures of nature that have inspired Linda throughout her life. Setting up a studio in Western Nebraska close to Toadstool Park, ranch life, the landscape &amp; wildlife became the inspiration for her art. This exhibit highlights some of Linda's amazing watercolor, oil, acrylic &amp; sculptural pieces.

Linda Dabbs Bio:&nbsp;Linda has been a practicing and professional artist for most of her life, supporting herself &amp; her three children with graphic &amp; advertising art. She now fills her time with theater art painting sets for several theaters along with teaching scenic painting techniques at Chadron State College.

Starting at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo where she organized &amp; started the zoo’s graphic art department. From there, moving on to become art director for Imperial Outdoor Advertising Co. Then on to advertising art as director of design for ad agencies, later owning her own free-lance graphic design/ illustration studio. Some of the organizations she has served with are, the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo Women’s Board, Fontenelle Forest Woman’s Guild, and the Graphic Artists Guild. She has also donated her time and talents to Nebraska State Recycling. For several years Linda worked with Kelly S King’s Faux Finish School with schools in Omaha, NE, Denver, CO, and Seattle, WA. Here she helped develop painting and plastering techniques which became the base for the theater work, the ability to manipulate the faux products shows in the art produced now for pleasure. Setting up a studio in Western Nebraska close to Toadstool Park, ranch life, the landscape &amp; wildlife became the inspiration for her art. Her work with the Sandoz Center at Chadron State College includes “Sprit of the Plains” a three-dimensional buffalo sculpture made from unconventional materials. Proficient in multiple medias, (watercolor, oil, acrylics &amp; sculpture.) There’s not much she won’t try. “I love a Challenge!”

Last but certainly not least, we want to remind folks that Bob Peltz’ Summer art camp student exhibit,&nbsp;Adventures in Art, is on display in the Studio gallery until December 10th. The student’s works are a bright and beautiful showcase of the talent and stunning imagination through a child’s eyes with the amazing direction of Bob’s professional experience as a life-long accomplished artist.

For more images of Linda Dabbs work remember to check out Carnegie’s Facebook and Instagram page where daily pictures and videos of the exhibit will be posted. For information on our artists as well as details on upcoming events and classes, visit, (<a href="https://www.carnegieartscenter.com/" target="_blank">https://www.carnegieartscenter.com</a>

By Kyren Gibson, Carnegie Arts Center<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668529472498.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carnegie is pleased to announce the arrival of the new exhibit&nbsp;Journey&nbsp;by Artist Linda Dabbs. The exhibit will be on display in the Garwood and Skala upper galleries and will exhibit from November 1st&nbsp;through December 3rd.&nbsp;Come view the beautiful colors and textures of nature that have inspired Linda throughout her life. Setting up a studio in Western Nebraska close to Toadstool Park, ranch life, the landscape &amp; wildlife became the inspiration for her art. This exhibit highlights some of Linda's amazing watercolor, oil, acrylic &amp; sculptural pieces.Linda Dabbs Bio:&nbsp;Linda has been a practicing and professional artist for most of her life, supporting herself &amp; her three children with graphic &amp; advertising art. She now fills her time with theater art painting sets for several theaters along with teaching scenic painting techniques at Chadron State College.Starting at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo where she organized &amp; started the zoo’s graphic art department. From there, moving on to become art director for Imperial Outdoor Advertising Co. Then on to advertising art as director of design for ad agencies, later owning her own free-lance graphic design/ illustration studio. Some of the organizations she has served with are, the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo Women’s Board, Fontenelle Forest Woman’s Guild, and the Graphic Artists Guild. She has also donated her time and talents to Nebraska State Recycling. For several years Linda worked with Kelly S King’s Faux Finish School with schools in Omaha, NE, Denver, CO, and Seattle, WA. Here she helped develop painting and plastering techniques which became the base for the theater work, the ability to manipulate the faux products shows in the art produced now for pleasure. Setting up a studio in Western Nebraska close to Toadstool Park, ranch life, the landscape &amp; wildlife became the inspiration for her art. Her work with the Sandoz Center at Chadron State College includes “Sprit of the Plains” a three-dimensional buffalo sculpture made from unconventional materials. Proficient in multiple medias, (watercolor, oil, acrylics &amp; sculpture.) There’s not much she won’t try. “I love a Challenge!”Last but certainly not least, we want to remind folks that Bob Peltz’ Summer art camp student exhibit,&nbsp;Adventures in Art, is on display in the Studio gallery until December 10th. The student’s works are a bright and beautiful showcase of the talent and stunning imagination through a child’s eyes with the amazing direction of Bob’s professional experience as a life-long accomplished artist.For more images of Linda Dabbs work remember to check out Carnegie’s Facebook and Instagram page where daily pictures and videos of the exhibit will be posted. For information on our artists as well as details on upcoming events and classes, visit, (<a href="https://www.carnegieartscenter.com/" target="_blank">https://www.carnegieartscenter.com</a>

Carnegie Arts Center announces Dabbs, Peltz art exhibits 

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte Post

GERING, Neb.-Authorities said a Scottsbluff man has died after an accident at a Gering sugar factory.

The accident happened last Tuesday at Western Sugar, 2205 10th St.&nbsp;

Authorities said Dylon Charvat, 30, was pinned between a semi and a loading dock as the semi backed up to the dock.

Authorities said Charvat was transported to Regional West Medical Center when he died.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is investigating the accident.

A GoFundMe has been established for Charvat's family and can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/dylon-charvat-memorial-fund?qid=0a8e02aa2dc74829340f46b0bbba1d66&amp;fbclid=IwAR1hu8mMdjsSisfJ-Pi93AvUt0wHsj4DbllCsrZm7XBnRd1XgmQLAJqBg-s">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostGERING, Neb.-Authorities said a Scottsbluff man has died after an accident at a Gering sugar factory.The accident happened last Tuesday at Western Sugar, 2205 10th St.&nbsp;Authorities said Dylon Charvat, 30, was pinned between a semi and a loading dock as the semi backed up to the dock.Authorities said Charvat was transported to Regional West Medical Center when he died.The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is investigating the accident.A GoFundMe has been established for Charvat's family and can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/dylon-charvat-memorial-fund?qid=0a8e02aa2dc74829340f46b0bbba1d66&amp;fbclid=IwAR1hu8mMdjsSisfJ-Pi93AvUt0wHsj4DbllCsrZm7XBnRd1XgmQLAJqBg-s">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

Scottsbluff man killed in accident at Gering sugar factory

-Yours, Mine, &amp; Ours Art Show in Chadron&nbsp;

An exhibit of work from the personal collections of CSC Art Faculty­—Laura Bentz, Trudy Denham,&nbsp;Mary Donahue, Dewayne Gimeson.

Pieces by other artists, friends, and a few of their own.

Includes work by former CSC Art teachers&nbsp;Paul Pfrehm, Richard Bird, and Don Ruleaux.

By Chadron State College<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668471922481.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>-Yours, Mine, &amp; Ours Art Show in Chadron&nbsp;-Nov. 7 - Dec. 16-Memorial Hall Main Gallery-9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-FridayAn exhibit of work from the personal collections of CSC Art Faculty­—Laura Bentz, Trudy Denham,&nbsp;Mary Donahue, Dewayne Gimeson.Pieces by other artists, friends, and a few of their own.Includes work by former CSC Art teachers&nbsp;Paul Pfrehm, Richard Bird, and Don Ruleaux.

CSC 'Yours, Mine & Ours' Art Show continues in Chadron 

By Tena L. Cook, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – The Chadron State College Theatre Department will present The Thanksgiving Play, a political satire by Larissa FastHorse, Nov. 17-19 at 7 p.m., Nov. 20 at 2 p.m., and Dec. 2-3 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Black Box Theatre.&nbsp;Tickets are free and can be<a href="https://www.csc.edu/academics/theatre/seatreservation/" target="_blank">&nbsp;reserved</a>&nbsp;online.

According to Concord Theatricals, the play features the comedic clashes that arise when a group tries to simultaneously celebrate Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Month.

Olivia Freeze of Bridgeport, Neb., said her character, Logan, is an exaggerated interpretation of a modern liberal woman.

“She keeps trying to push boundaries to send her message of inclusion and empathy, but she has to learn you can't make everyone happy,” Freeze said. “I think this show is going to be very funny. In a world full of division, it is necessary for us to take a step back and laugh at ourselves.”

Freeze encourages the CSC community to attend.

“It is a ridiculous story and a hilarious script. It is a lighthearted approach to cultural issues we see all over the media in our daily lives,” Freeze said.

Levi O’Dell of Piedmont, S.D., who portrays Cade, said he enjoys working with the other cast members and the director,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/directory/jdownes/" target="_blank">Jeremiah Downes</a>.

“Working together makes it clearer, compared to reading the script, how the show is supposed to be interpreted. It makes it so much more entertaining and amusing when actually acting it out,” O’Dell said. “People should attend this show because it is very entertaining. It makes comments on several aspects of social behaviors in a playful way.”

Jaxton, portrayed by Brayden Schuelke&nbsp;of Box Elder, S.D., is a person Schuelke said many in the audience may be able to relate to.

“He is fun, weird, and quirky. He is not a character I'm used to playing so I have to push myself. I'm beginning to embrace this full force, and I'm having a lot of fun getting into the mind and world of Jaxton.&nbsp;People will be able to laugh at every moment of the show,” Schuelke said.

Isabella Ashley of Rapid City, S.D., said portraying Alicia takes her out of her comfort zone in a good way.

“Alicia doesn't really know what is going on, but she loves to be the center of attention and involved in all the action. It allows me to explore other ways of bringing a character to life instead of being serious all the time. While the play does draw attention to important issues, it also pokes fun at people who take things too far,” Ashley said.

Assistant Stage Manager: Riley Perry of Box Elder, S.D.

Light Board Operator: Madison Kinney of Gering, Neb.

Sound Board Operator: Trista Topil&nbsp;of Lincoln, Neb.

Dresser: Chloe Shatswell of Box Elder, S.D.

Stage Manager: Zackary Wellnitz of Rushville, Neb.

By Tena L. Cook, CSC Marketing Coordinator<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668471386680.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>CHADRON – The Chadron State College Theatre Department will present The Thanksgiving Play, a political satire by Larissa FastHorse, Nov. 17-19 at 7 p.m., Nov. 20 at 2 p.m., and Dec. 2-3 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Black Box Theatre.&nbsp;Tickets are free and can be<a href="https://www.csc.edu/academics/theatre/seatreservation/" target="_blank">&nbsp;reserved</a>&nbsp;online.According to Concord Theatricals, the play features the comedic clashes that arise when a group tries to simultaneously celebrate Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Month.Olivia Freeze of Bridgeport, Neb., said her character, Logan, is an exaggerated interpretation of a modern liberal woman.“She keeps trying to push boundaries to send her message of inclusion and empathy, but she has to learn you can't make everyone happy,” Freeze said. “I think this show is going to be very funny. In a world full of division, it is necessary for us to take a step back and laugh at ourselves.”Freeze encourages the CSC community to attend.“It is a ridiculous story and a hilarious script. It is a lighthearted approach to cultural issues we see all over the media in our daily lives,” Freeze said.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mpudTU2Fj34" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Levi O’Dell of Piedmont, S.D., who portrays Cade, said he enjoys working with the other cast members and the director,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/directory/jdownes/" target="_blank">Jeremiah Downes</a>.“Working together makes it clearer, compared to reading the script, how the show is supposed to be interpreted. It makes it so much more entertaining and amusing when actually acting it out,” O’Dell said. “People should attend this show because it is very entertaining. It makes comments on several aspects of social behaviors in a playful way.”Jaxton, portrayed by Brayden Schuelke&nbsp;of Box Elder, S.D., is a person Schuelke said many in the audience may be able to relate to.“He is fun, weird, and quirky. He is not a character I'm used to playing so I have to push myself. I'm beginning to embrace this full force, and I'm having a lot of fun getting into the mind and world of Jaxton.&nbsp;People will be able to laugh at every moment of the show,” Schuelke said.Isabella Ashley of Rapid City, S.D., said portraying Alicia takes her out of her comfort zone in a good way.“Alicia doesn't really know what is going on, but she loves to be the center of attention and involved in all the action. It allows me to explore other ways of bringing a character to life instead of being serious all the time. While the play does draw attention to important issues, it also pokes fun at people who take things too far,” Ashley said.CastLogan: Olivia FreezeCade: Levi O’DellAlicia: Isabella (Izzy) AshleyJaxton: Brayden SchuelkeCrewDirector: Jeremiah DownesAssistant Stage Manager: Riley Perry of Box Elder, S.D.Light Board Operator: Madison Kinney of Gering, Neb.Sound Board Operator: Trista Topil&nbsp;of Lincoln, Neb.Dresser: Chloe Shatswell of Box Elder, S.D.Stage Manager: Zackary Wellnitz of Rushville, Neb.

🎥 Chadron Theatre Department presents The Thanksgiving Play

News Release United States Attorney

Acting United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Sidney Marker, 28, of Seward, Nebraska, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha for a conspiracy to sex traffic minors. Chief Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Marker to 180 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal prison system. After her release from prison, Marker will serve 5 years of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender.

Last week, on November 8, 2022, Chief Judge Rossiter sentenced Co-Defendant Carney Turner, 42, of Omaha, Nebraska, to life imprisonment on one count of conspiracy to sex traffic minors, three counts of sex trafficking of a minor, and two counts of enticement of a minor. Chief Judge Rossiter also sentenced Co-Defendant Julisha Biggs, 20, of Omaha, to 87 months’ imprisonment for her role in the conspiracy.

Law enforcement began investigating in September 2020 after discovering electronic messages between a minor female and Turner during a separate sex trafficking investigation. The minor female was interviewed and reported that she had been sex trafficked by Turner for approximately three months and that Turner had kept money from the sex sales. In October 2020, a second minor female reported that she had been sexually assaulted by a man in a hotel room after Turner brought her to the hotel and paid her to meet with the man. In November 2020, a third minor female was reported missing from her foster home and law enforcement observed that she was being posted in online sex advertisements by a phone number associated with Turner.

Evidence uncovered by law enforcement showed that Marker met Turner while Turner was serving a state sentence and Marker was employed in the correctional facility as a caseworker. Marker then went on to work as a foster care specialist and a family support specialist. After Turner’s release from prison, Marker, Turner and Biggs resided together in an apartment in Ralston, Nebraska. Turner recruited, advertised, and arranged commercial sex sales for minors between approximately January 2020 and February 2021. The sex sales took place at hotels in and around Omaha, as well as at the apartment, which had been leased by Marker. At least one of the minors also stayed at the apartment for a period of time. Marker provided vehicles to transport the minors to hotels for commercial sex acts and assisted with renting hotel rooms. The minor who had been reported missing in November 2020 had been recruited by Biggs to come work for Turner.&nbsp;

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Omaha Police Department, and the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office.

News Release United States AttorneyActing United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Sidney Marker, 28, of Seward, Nebraska, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha for a conspiracy to sex traffic minors. Chief Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Marker to 180 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal prison system. After her release from prison, Marker will serve 5 years of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender.Last week, on November 8, 2022, Chief Judge Rossiter sentenced Co-Defendant Carney Turner, 42, of Omaha, Nebraska, to life imprisonment on one count of conspiracy to sex traffic minors, three counts of sex trafficking of a minor, and two counts of enticement of a minor. Chief Judge Rossiter also sentenced Co-Defendant Julisha Biggs, 20, of Omaha, to 87 months’ imprisonment for her role in the conspiracy.Law enforcement began investigating in September 2020 after discovering electronic messages between a minor female and Turner during a separate sex trafficking investigation. The minor female was interviewed and reported that she had been sex trafficked by Turner for approximately three months and that Turner had kept money from the sex sales. In October 2020, a second minor female reported that she had been sexually assaulted by a man in a hotel room after Turner brought her to the hotel and paid her to meet with the man. In November 2020, a third minor female was reported missing from her foster home and law enforcement observed that she was being posted in online sex advertisements by a phone number associated with Turner.Evidence uncovered by law enforcement showed that Marker met Turner while Turner was serving a state sentence and Marker was employed in the correctional facility as a caseworker. Marker then went on to work as a foster care specialist and a family support specialist. After Turner’s release from prison, Marker, Turner and Biggs resided together in an apartment in Ralston, Nebraska. Turner recruited, advertised, and arranged commercial sex sales for minors between approximately January 2020 and February 2021. The sex sales took place at hotels in and around Omaha, as well as at the apartment, which had been leased by Marker. At least one of the minors also stayed at the apartment for a period of time. Marker provided vehicles to transport the minors to hotels for commercial sex acts and assisted with renting hotel rooms. The minor who had been reported missing in November 2020 had been recruited by Biggs to come work for Turner.&nbsp;This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/" target="_blank">www.projectsafechildhood.gov</a>.This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Omaha Police Department, and the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office.

Seward woman sentenced for conspiracy to sex traffic minors

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Law-abiding marijuana enthusiasts could find themselves in a bit of a predicament following voter approval of a recreational cannabis initiative in Missouri.

Though it soon will become legal for adults to possess and ingest cannabis, it could take a couple more months before they can legally buy it.

Maryland residents will have to wait even longer — until the middle of next year — before a recreational marijuana measure approved this past week can take effect.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-2022-midterm-elections-c693f5e23e0faf2f39168df6a2f80ab2">With the addition of Maryland and Missouri</a>, 21 states have legalized recreational marijuana for adults over the past decade — even though it remains illegal under federal law.

Marijuana advocates are pressing forward with similar efforts elsewhere, undeterred by defeats last week in Arkansas, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Efforts to legalize psychedelic drugs for personal use also appear likely to spread, after supporters poured millions of dollars into&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-decriminalizes-psychedelic-mushrooms-4feb4848005fc355eef7b54b451460be">a Colorado measure that won approval</a>.

Here's a look at what's next in the effort to reshape state drug laws.

By Associated PressJEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Law-abiding marijuana enthusiasts could find themselves in a bit of a predicament following voter approval of a recreational cannabis initiative in Missouri.Though it soon will become legal for adults to possess and ingest cannabis, it could take a couple more months before they can legally buy it.Maryland residents will have to wait even longer — until the middle of next year — before a recreational marijuana measure approved this past week can take effect.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-2022-midterm-elections-c693f5e23e0faf2f39168df6a2f80ab2">With the addition of Maryland and Missouri</a>, 21 states have legalized recreational marijuana for adults over the past decade — even though it remains illegal under federal law.Marijuana advocates are pressing forward with similar efforts elsewhere, undeterred by defeats last week in Arkansas, North Dakota and South Dakota.Efforts to legalize psychedelic drugs for personal use also appear likely to spread, after supporters poured millions of dollars into&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-decriminalizes-psychedelic-mushrooms-4feb4848005fc355eef7b54b451460be">a Colorado measure that won approval</a>.Here's a look at what's next in the effort to reshape state drug laws.MISSOURI AND MARYLANDRecreational marijuana for adults 21 and older will become legal in Missouri on Dec. 8. That’s the same day the state’s existing medical marijuana businesses can apply for licenses to grow, manufacture, transport and sell cannabis for recreational purposes.But there won't be any immediate deals — at least not legally.The newly approved constitutional amendment gives the state health department until Feb. 6 to consider applications. Though officials could act more quickly, the department doesn’t expect to approve recreational cannabis licenses until February, said the department's communications director, Lisa Cox.In the meantime, people potentially could get free marijuana from those with medical cards or turn to the black market.“No one needs to say how or where they acquired their cannabis in order for it to be legal,” said Dan Viets, Missouri coordinator for the drug policy group NORML.Maryland’s new constitutional amendment legalizes the possession and use of marijuana for adults 21 and older effective July 1, and directs the General Assembly to come up with laws regulating it.In the meantime, a law set to be in place from Jan. 1 through June 30 makes the possession of a personal supply of marijuana — defined as up to 1.5 ounces — a civil offense with a fine of up to $100.Both states also have provisions to gradually expunge some past marijuana offenses for people.OKLAHOMA AND BEYONDThe next vote on legalizing recreational marijuana for adults will occur in Oklahoma. Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elections-marijuana-oklahoma-general-ee1bab3b4b25fda860d1477ac109e077">Gov. Kevin Stitt set a March election</a>&nbsp;after a delay in counting initiative signatures and legal challenges prevented the measure from appearing on the November ballot.Oklahoma already has one of the nation's most robust medical marijuana programs, with&nbsp;<a href="https://oklahoma.gov/omma/about/licensing-and-tax-data.html">about 2,500 licensed dispensaries</a>. About 380,000 people, nearly 10% of all residents, have state-issued medical cards allowing them to buy, grow and consume marijuana.After Oklahoma, Ohio could vote next on cannabis legalization. A group that originally sought to get a measure on the November ballot reached a legal settlement with legislative leaders that could&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-marijuana-legislature-columbus-9baf0aae7ebf4e11a9886d6d00f3822d">allow supporters to submit petition signatures</a>&nbsp;for a 2023 vote.After Democratic victories in last week's legislative and gubernatorial elections,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-marijuana-recreational-legislature-sd-state-wire-7329cffd1156a64b5895a7ec14c1ef0b">Minnesota could be poised to legalize recreational marijuana</a>&nbsp;next year without needing to go to voters. Legislative approval of recreational marijuana also could be pursued next year in Democratic-led Hawaii, said Matthew Schweich, deputy director of the Marijuana Policy Project, a nonprofit advocacy group based in Washington, D.C.New citizen-led ballot initiatives are possible in Florida, Idaho, Nebraska, Wyoming and the three states where ballot measures recently failed.This year was "probably the worst election cycle for cannabis reform since the first ones passed in 2012, but there’s still a belief that we can go win more states in 2024,” said Schweich, who ran this year's campaign in South Dakota.Marijuana legalization campaigns raised about $24 million in the five states where they were on the ballot, according to pre-election finance reports. The vast majority of that was in Arkansas and Missouri, where&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-marijuana-industry-donors-d97a216994afd9933d0f733b3def6742">more than 85% of contributions</a>&nbsp;came from donors associated with medical marijuana licensees, according to an Associated Press analysis.In Arkansas, some marijuana advocates opposed the initiative because it benefitted the existing industry while lacking provisions for people to grow their own cannabis and expunge past marijuana convictions. But advocates hope to return to voters in two years with a revised plan.“I think the people still truly want to see this," said Eddie Armstrong, chairman of the group that campaigned for the Arkansas initiative.PSYCHEDELIC DRUGSVoters in Colorado made it the second state, behind Oregon, to legalize psychedelic mushrooms for personal use by people 21 and older.Though the hallucinogenic drug remains illegal under federal law and won't be sold in Colorado stores, it will be available for use under supervision at state-regulated “healing centers.” Residents also will be able to grow psychedelic mushrooms at home and use them without civil or criminal penalties.The initiative won't take effect until 2024. By then, similar legalization efforts already may have spread to other states.The Colorado measure is “at the forefront of a new trend,” said Mandy Zoch, who tracks ballot measures at the National Conference of State Legislatures. "I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw more measures relating to things like psilocybin and other psychedelic drugs in the future.”Legislatures in several states, including California and New Jersey, are likely to consider psychedelic drug measures in 2023, said Graham Boyd, executive director of the drug policy group New Approach.After spending more than $4 million on the Colorado initiative, New Approach expects donors concerned about veterans and mental health issues to step forward with more money for future initiatives.“I think that we are at the beginning of a very hopeful period of expanding options for dealing with mental health. That’s what this is all about,” Boyd said.

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