By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

A friend recently sent me an opinion column from Froma Harrop, "Where are dads when single moms are struggling?" Harrop shares stories of single women struggling to stay financially afloat, holding a paying job while caring for young children. Then she asks the question of whether the fathers of these children are absolved from responsibility, since they regularly disappear from any of our media's stories.

The Kids Count Data Center of the Annie E. Casey Foundation published research in August about current child poverty rates in single-parent families. Nationally nearly 30% of single-parent families live in poverty. For married couples, the rate is 6%. Among one-parent households: single parents are more likely to live in poverty when compared to cohabiting couples, and single mothers are much more likely to be poor when compared to single fathers.

In Nebraska, 10% of all families live below the poverty line. For married couples, the statistic is 3%; for single-parent families, 25% live below the poverty line.

Nearly 24 million children in the United States live in a single-parent family. This is about one in three kids under the age of 18 in America. Within single-parent families, 15 million children live in mother-only households. Cohabitating parents are raising 6 million children, and around 3 million live in father-only households.

For Nebraska's 3rd Congressional District, which includes Box Butte County, 34,000, or 25% of our children, live in single-parent families.

It is well established that mother-only households are more likely to live in poverty. That means these children experience the consequences of growing up poor. Kids Count reminds us that, "Children in poverty are more likely to have physical, mental and behavioral health problems, disrupted brain development, shorter educational trajectories, contact with the child welfare and justice systems, employment challenges in adulthood and more."

Poverty is also linked to parental stress. Single parents may struggle to cover their family’s basic needs, including food, utilities, housing, child care, clothing and transportation. A single parent may have to work more than one job to make ends meet. The family may often move homes or witness or experience violence. Single parents often lose social support networks of friends and family that might help them deal with stress.

High parental stress can spark lifelong challenges for the children involved. These children generally spend less time with a parent, or any adult. Kids from single-parent families are more likely to face emotional and behavioral health challenges like aggression or engaging in high-risk behaviors. They are more likely to drop out of school, to have or cause a teen pregnancy, to be arrested, and to experience a divorce in adulthood.

Please don't think that all single-parent households experience all these problems, or that only households with married parents can meet the needs of our children. Family structures have changed over time. We see not only cohabitating parents, but blended step-families, same-sex parent families, children living with other relatives. Children can thrive in any family where there is a loving, stable environment.

None of the statistics from the Census Bureau or the Kids Count Data Center answer Froma Harrop's question: Where are dads when single moms are struggling? How many of these fathers are providing child support? How many are active non-custodial parents? I couldn't find any of that data. Harrop argues that when we let dads disappear from these stories of single-parent families, we are being sexist. This places a "brutal burden" on the female's shoulders.

Fathers have a powerful and positive impact upon the development and health of children, and they play a vital role in fueling their family’s economic success. Let's do a better job of holding them accountable.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityA friend recently sent me an opinion column from Froma Harrop, "Where are dads when single moms are struggling?" Harrop shares stories of single women struggling to stay financially afloat, holding a paying job while caring for young children. Then she asks the question of whether the fathers of these children are absolved from responsibility, since they regularly disappear from any of our media's stories.The Kids Count Data Center of the Annie E. Casey Foundation published research in August about current child poverty rates in single-parent families. Nationally nearly 30% of single-parent families live in poverty. For married couples, the rate is 6%. Among one-parent households: single parents are more likely to live in poverty when compared to cohabiting couples, and single mothers are much more likely to be poor when compared to single fathers.In Nebraska, 10% of all families live below the poverty line. For married couples, the statistic is 3%; for single-parent families, 25% live below the poverty line.Nearly 24 million children in the United States live in a single-parent family. This is about one in three kids under the age of 18 in America. Within single-parent families, 15 million children live in mother-only households. Cohabitating parents are raising 6 million children, and around 3 million live in father-only households.For Nebraska's 3rd Congressional District, which includes Box Butte County, 34,000, or 25% of our children, live in single-parent families.It is well established that mother-only households are more likely to live in poverty. That means these children experience the consequences of growing up poor. Kids Count reminds us that, "Children in poverty are more likely to have physical, mental and behavioral health problems, disrupted brain development, shorter educational trajectories, contact with the child welfare and justice systems, employment challenges in adulthood and more."Poverty is also linked to parental stress. Single parents may struggle to cover their family’s basic needs, including food, utilities, housing, child care, clothing and transportation. A single parent may have to work more than one job to make ends meet. The family may often move homes or witness or experience violence. Single parents often lose social support networks of friends and family that might help them deal with stress.High parental stress can spark lifelong challenges for the children involved. These children generally spend less time with a parent, or any adult. Kids from single-parent families are more likely to face emotional and behavioral health challenges like aggression or engaging in high-risk behaviors. They are more likely to drop out of school, to have or cause a teen pregnancy, to be arrested, and to experience a divorce in adulthood.Please don't think that all single-parent households experience all these problems, or that only households with married parents can meet the needs of our children. Family structures have changed over time. We see not only cohabitating parents, but blended step-families, same-sex parent families, children living with other relatives. Children can thrive in any family where there is a loving, stable environment.None of the statistics from the Census Bureau or the Kids Count Data Center answer Froma Harrop's question: Where are dads when single moms are struggling? How many of these fathers are providing child support? How many are active non-custodial parents? I couldn't find any of that data. Harrop argues that when we let dads disappear from these stories of single-parent families, we are being sexist. This places a "brutal burden" on the female's shoulders.Fathers have a powerful and positive impact upon the development and health of children, and they play a vital role in fueling their family’s economic success. Let's do a better job of holding them accountable.

Getting ahead: Child poverty - Where is Dad?

By ALEX HELMBRECHT, Director of CSC College Relations

CHADRON – Amee Diers, who has been the Interim Director of Human Resources since August, will be the new Director of Human Resources Vice President for Administration and Finance Kari Gaswick announced Monday.

“Amee has demonstrated excellent leadership as the Interim Director and I am confident she will continue that trait and more while she leads the Human Resources department,” Gaswick said. “Amee’s institutional knowledge, as well as her familiarity with the Nebraska State College System, are valuable assets that the employees and students of Chadron State College will benefit from.”

Diers has worked at Chadron State College since 2014. She was originally hired as Project Coordinator in the Administration and Finance department before transitioning to HR. She became the Assistant Director for Human Resources in 2015. As the Assistant Director, Diers oversaw payroll functions and processed monthly payroll for all full time and part time employees, as well as provided content information for employees from the negotiated agreements.

Diers, who has both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Chadron State College, previously worked in the private sector as a paralegal and human resources manager.

Diers said she’s eager to assist the college’s employees and those seeking employment.&nbsp;

“As a leader and a professional in Human Resources, I want to cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and learning that is balanced with an authentic concern for the individual employee,” Diers said. “CSC has been a wonderful place to work and I intend to do all I can to ensure others have that same type of experience.”

Two new hires join Diers in the Human Resources department. They are Danielle Rasmussen, the HR Coordinator, and Damien Zuniga, Office Assistant II.

By ALEX HELMBRECHT, Director of CSC College RelationsCHADRON – Amee Diers, who has been the Interim Director of Human Resources since August, will be the new Director of Human Resources Vice President for Administration and Finance Kari Gaswick announced Monday.“Amee has demonstrated excellent leadership as the Interim Director and I am confident she will continue that trait and more while she leads the Human Resources department,” Gaswick said. “Amee’s institutional knowledge, as well as her familiarity with the Nebraska State College System, are valuable assets that the employees and students of Chadron State College will benefit from.”Diers has worked at Chadron State College since 2014. She was originally hired as Project Coordinator in the Administration and Finance department before transitioning to HR. She became the Assistant Director for Human Resources in 2015. As the Assistant Director, Diers oversaw payroll functions and processed monthly payroll for all full time and part time employees, as well as provided content information for employees from the negotiated agreements.Diers, who has both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Chadron State College, previously worked in the private sector as a paralegal and human resources manager.Diers said she’s eager to assist the college’s employees and those seeking employment.&nbsp;“As a leader and a professional in Human Resources, I want to cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and learning that is balanced with an authentic concern for the individual employee,” Diers said. “CSC has been a wonderful place to work and I intend to do all I can to ensure others have that same type of experience.”Two new hires join Diers in the Human Resources department. They are Danielle Rasmussen, the HR Coordinator, and Damien Zuniga, Office Assistant II.

Diers named Director of Human Resources in Chadron

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds hunters it will not be releasing pen-reared pheasants before the youth pheasant season and Thanksgiving holiday this year. Unlike past years, vendors were unable to provide the pheasants this year.

The statewide youth season is Oct. 22-23, but only youth ages 15 and younger will be allowed to hunt. The youth season provides a great opportunity to expose youth hunters to upland bird hunting and spend quality time afield. To find new places to hunt, refer to the Nebraska Public Access Atlas, which is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTcuNjUyNjYwMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9QdWJsaWNBY2Nlc3NBdGxhcy8ifQ.YyGRjVQPW2QoWFOeu_Ny7IcGn4DkHFrdAazWjOugFyo/s/497221906/br/146081980239-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/PublicAccessAtlas</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

People interested in hunting pen-raised birds in a more controlled environment are encouraged to visit one of state’s 48 Controlled Shooting Areas. CSAs are privately-owned areas for hunting upland gamebirds during an extended season. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTcuNjUyNjYwMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9DU0EvIn0._AD9b48Z5WRdtulmxYytWDlLRGnaeeZvIua9PALP26Q/s/497221906/br/146081980239-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/CSA</a>.

Other options for youth hunters include attending a free Youth Mentor Hunt event (ages 12-15) or participating in the Next Steps Hunt Program, both sponsored by Pheasants Forever chapters throughout the state. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTcuNjUyNjYwMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL25lYnJhc2thcGYuY29tLyJ9.8AivpRZm76Yy1ch8l4iGBLm5poGjf5PDqzUw2KXsFxc/s/497221906/br/146081980239-l" target="_blank">NebraskaPF.com</a>.

In recent years, Game and Parks has released approximately 16,500 pheasants on 19 public areas across the state. The agency is planning to release pheasants next year.

By Nebraska Game and ParksThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds hunters it will not be releasing pen-reared pheasants before the youth pheasant season and Thanksgiving holiday this year. Unlike past years, vendors were unable to provide the pheasants this year.The statewide youth season is Oct. 22-23, but only youth ages 15 and younger will be allowed to hunt. The youth season provides a great opportunity to expose youth hunters to upland bird hunting and spend quality time afield. To find new places to hunt, refer to the Nebraska Public Access Atlas, which is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTcuNjUyNjYwMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9QdWJsaWNBY2Nlc3NBdGxhcy8ifQ.YyGRjVQPW2QoWFOeu_Ny7IcGn4DkHFrdAazWjOugFyo/s/497221906/br/146081980239-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/PublicAccessAtlas</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;People interested in hunting pen-raised birds in a more controlled environment are encouraged to visit one of state’s 48 Controlled Shooting Areas. CSAs are privately-owned areas for hunting upland gamebirds during an extended season. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTcuNjUyNjYwMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9DU0EvIn0._AD9b48Z5WRdtulmxYytWDlLRGnaeeZvIua9PALP26Q/s/497221906/br/146081980239-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/CSA</a>.Other options for youth hunters include attending a free Youth Mentor Hunt event (ages 12-15) or participating in the Next Steps Hunt Program, both sponsored by Pheasants Forever chapters throughout the state. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTcuNjUyNjYwMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL25lYnJhc2thcGYuY29tLyJ9.8AivpRZm76Yy1ch8l4iGBLm5poGjf5PDqzUw2KXsFxc/s/497221906/br/146081980239-l" target="_blank">NebraskaPF.com</a>.In recent years, Game and Parks has released approximately 16,500 pheasants on 19 public areas across the state. The agency is planning to release pheasants next year.

No pheasants available to be released for youth season, Thanksgiving weekend

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – The Chadron State College Distinguished Writer Series will feature Jonis Agee, recipient of the 2022 One Book One Nebraska, in two presentations Nov. 3. Agee will read from her novel, The Bones of Paradise, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Student Center. The free, public book discussion will cover the issues the novel raises about living in western Nebraska, according to organizers of the event Dr. Matt Evertson and Markus Jones. Agee will also give a public reading in the Sandoz Center at 6 p.m. The presentation will be broadcast online at chadronstate.tv.

An Omaha native, Agee teaches creative writing at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She earned a bachelor’s at The University of Iowa and her master’s and doctorate at The State University of New York at Binghamton. She is the author of more than a dozen books, including novels, collections of poetry, and collections of short stories. Three of her books, Strange Angels, Bend This Heart, and Sweet Eyes were named Notable Books of the Year by The New York Times.

Her awards include a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship, two Loft-McKnight Fellowships for fiction, two Minnesota State Arts Board grants in fiction, and the Nebraska Book Award. Her most recent novels include The Weight of Dreams and The River Wife.

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://onebook.nebraska.gov/2022/index.aspx" target="_blank">One Book One Nebraska</a>&nbsp;website, The Bones of Paradise features a multigenerational family saga set in the Nebraska Sand Hills in the years following the massacre at Wounded Knee. It’s a tale of history, vengeance, race, guilt, betrayal, family, and belonging, filled with a vivid cast of characters shaped by violence, love, and a desperate loyalty to the land.

The One Book One Nebraska reading program encourages Nebraskans across the state to read and discuss one book each year, chosen from books written by Nebraska authors or that have a Nebraska theme or setting.

Libraries across Nebraska have joined other literary and cultural organizations in book discussions, activities, and events to encourage Nebraskans to read and discuss the book. Support materials to assist with discussion activities are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://onebook.nebraska.gov/2021/get-involved.aspx" target="_blank">Get Involved</a>. Updates and activity listings are posted on the One Book One Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OneBookOneNebraska/" target="_blank">Facebook group</a>.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – The Chadron State College Distinguished Writer Series will feature Jonis Agee, recipient of the 2022 One Book One Nebraska, in two presentations Nov. 3. Agee will read from her novel, The Bones of Paradise, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Student Center. The free, public book discussion will cover the issues the novel raises about living in western Nebraska, according to organizers of the event Dr. Matt Evertson and Markus Jones. Agee will also give a public reading in the Sandoz Center at 6 p.m. The presentation will be broadcast online at chadronstate.tv.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666120030910.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An Omaha native, Agee teaches creative writing at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She earned a bachelor’s at The University of Iowa and her master’s and doctorate at The State University of New York at Binghamton. She is the author of more than a dozen books, including novels, collections of poetry, and collections of short stories. Three of her books, Strange Angels, Bend This Heart, and Sweet Eyes were named Notable Books of the Year by The New York Times.Her awards include a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship, two Loft-McKnight Fellowships for fiction, two Minnesota State Arts Board grants in fiction, and the Nebraska Book Award. Her most recent novels include The Weight of Dreams and The River Wife.According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://onebook.nebraska.gov/2022/index.aspx" target="_blank">One Book One Nebraska</a>&nbsp;website, The Bones of Paradise features a multigenerational family saga set in the Nebraska Sand Hills in the years following the massacre at Wounded Knee. It’s a tale of history, vengeance, race, guilt, betrayal, family, and belonging, filled with a vivid cast of characters shaped by violence, love, and a desperate loyalty to the land.The One Book One Nebraska reading program encourages Nebraskans across the state to read and discuss one book each year, chosen from books written by Nebraska authors or that have a Nebraska theme or setting.Libraries across Nebraska have joined other literary and cultural organizations in book discussions, activities, and events to encourage Nebraskans to read and discuss the book. Support materials to assist with discussion activities are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://onebook.nebraska.gov/2021/get-involved.aspx" target="_blank">Get Involved</a>. Updates and activity listings are posted on the One Book One Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/OneBookOneNebraska/" target="_blank">Facebook group</a>.

2022 One Book One Nebraska author, Agee, to present at Chadron State College 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 10/18/22

Alliance, NE – The Alliance Public Library has opened their doors to the public again and has resumed regular hours which are Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m., Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and Sundays closed.

The East parking lot and book drop will remain closed until the roof repair is complete but materials may be returned inside the library or in the drop box located inside the West entrance.

Thanks to all our patrons for their patience and understanding and we look forward to welcoming them back.

For more information, please contact Stephanie O’Connor at 308-762-1387.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The Alliance Public Library has opened their doors to the public again and has resumed regular hours which are Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m., Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and Sundays closed.The East parking lot and book drop will remain closed until the roof repair is complete but materials may be returned inside the library or in the drop box located inside the West entrance.Thanks to all our patrons for their patience and understanding and we look forward to welcoming them back.For more information, please contact Stephanie O’Connor at 308-762-1387.

Alliance Public Library reopens to the community 

Alliance – The City of Alliance announced that there will be a scheduled power outage on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Following is a list of areas that will be affected:

The odd side of Bel Air and even side of Boise from 16th Street going south to 14th Street

This outage is required in order to replace a pole in that alley. We appreciate everyone's patience during this time.

If you are still experiencing issues after 12:00 pm, please contact the City of Alliance Utility Office at (308)-762-5075.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The City of Alliance announced that there will be a scheduled power outage on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Following is a list of areas that will be affected:The odd side of Bel Air and even side of Boise from 16th Street going south to 14th StreetThis outage is required in order to replace a pole in that alley. We appreciate everyone's patience during this time.If you are still experiencing issues after 12:00 pm, please contact the City of Alliance Utility Office at (308)-762-5075.

City of Alliance plans scheduled power outage

Fall is upon us and snow may come at any day. With that we would like to remind all of our community members that City Ordinance §16-308 Recreational vehicles; storage was changed in December of 2016 in an effort to keep our roadways clear of trailers during the winter making snow removal easier.

We are once again asking our residents to assist in these efforts by removing the below listed vehicle types from City streets by November 1st through March 31.

The following vehicle types are affected by City Ordinance §16-308:

Any motor vehicle or trailer designed and used as a travel trailer, camper, motor home, tent trailer, boat trailer, ATV/UTV trailer, snowmobile trailer, camping trailer, cargo trailer, trailer of any kind, or bus.

If you would like a complete copy of the City of Chadron City Ordinance(s) they can be viewed online at <a href="https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/445/City-Ordinances">https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/445/City-Ordinances</a>

We are putting this out a couple of weeks ahead of the deadline in order to allow people to make the appropriate arrangements for their recreational vehicles. 

If there are any questions, please contact the Chadron Police Department at (308) 432-0510.

By Chadron Police DepartmentFall is upon us and snow may come at any day. With that we would like to remind all of our community members that City Ordinance §16-308 Recreational vehicles; storage was changed in December of 2016 in an effort to keep our roadways clear of trailers during the winter making snow removal easier.We are once again asking our residents to assist in these efforts by removing the below listed vehicle types from City streets by November 1st through March 31.The following vehicle types are affected by City Ordinance §16-308:Any motor vehicle or trailer designed and used as a travel trailer, camper, motor home, tent trailer, boat trailer, ATV/UTV trailer, snowmobile trailer, camping trailer, cargo trailer, trailer of any kind, or bus.If you would like a complete copy of the City of Chadron City Ordinance(s) they can be viewed online at <a href="https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/445/City-Ordinances">https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/445/City-Ordinances</a>We are putting this out a couple of weeks ahead of the deadline in order to allow people to make the appropriate arrangements for their recreational vehicles. If there are any questions, please contact the Chadron Police Department at (308) 432-0510.

Chadron police remind community about recreational vehicles ordinance 

GRAND ISLAND, NEB. — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have completed multiple enforcement campaigns focused on construction zones and excessive speeding in several parts of the state.

“These efforts are important, not only for the motoring public, but also for the crews working in these construction zones,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As the summer driving season transitioned into fall driving across Nebraska, many construction projects remain ongoing. We urge all drivers to focus attention on the road at all times, avoid distractions, always drive sober, and wear your seatbelt.”

Troopers in central Nebraska performed high-visibility patrols in and around construction zones throughout the summer months. The effort ran from June 1 through September 30, thanks in part to grant funding for $41,300 from the NDOT-HSO. Troopers working in and around construction zones arrested 4 people for driving under the influence of alcohol and cited people for reckless driving (3), speeding (100), open alcohol container (5), and no seat belt (3). 40% of the speeding citations were for motorists speeding at least 16 miles per hour above the construction zone speed limit.

Troopers in northeast Nebraska performed high-visibility patrols for more than 80 hours in and around construction zones from July to September. Troopers arrested two drivers for driving under the influence and issued 16 citations for speeding. The Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office supported this effort with grant funding of $5,000.

Troopers in the Nebraska Panhandle issued 70 citations for drivers speeding at or above 90 miles per hour during a special enforcement effort focused on excessive speeding during the month of September. This effort was made possible thanks in part for a grant for $1,770 from the NDOT-HSO.

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;GRAND ISLAND, NEB. — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have completed multiple enforcement campaigns focused on construction zones and excessive speeding in several parts of the state.“These efforts are important, not only for the motoring public, but also for the crews working in these construction zones,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As the summer driving season transitioned into fall driving across Nebraska, many construction projects remain ongoing. We urge all drivers to focus attention on the road at all times, avoid distractions, always drive sober, and wear your seatbelt.”Troopers in central Nebraska performed high-visibility patrols in and around construction zones throughout the summer months. The effort ran from June 1 through September 30, thanks in part to grant funding for $41,300 from the NDOT-HSO. Troopers working in and around construction zones arrested 4 people for driving under the influence of alcohol and cited people for reckless driving (3), speeding (100), open alcohol container (5), and no seat belt (3). 40% of the speeding citations were for motorists speeding at least 16 miles per hour above the construction zone speed limit.Troopers in northeast Nebraska performed high-visibility patrols for more than 80 hours in and around construction zones from July to September. Troopers arrested two drivers for driving under the influence and issued 16 citations for speeding. The Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office supported this effort with grant funding of $5,000.Troopers in the Nebraska Panhandle issued 70 citations for drivers speeding at or above 90 miles per hour during a special enforcement effort focused on excessive speeding during the month of September. This effort was made possible thanks in part for a grant for $1,770 from the NDOT-HSO.

Troopers complete construction zone, speeding campaigns

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (Oct. 17, 2022) -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College welcomed three new faculty members for the Fall 2022 semester. One joined WNCC's Surgical Technology program and the two others are English instructors.&nbsp;

Alyssa Rice, who was most&nbsp;recently an adjunct instructor for the Surgical Technology program, accepted a full-time position in August. Before that, she worked at Regional West Medical Center's Operating&nbsp;Room and the Oregon Trail Eye Surgery Center. She said it's been an adjustment from the operating room to the class room, but a challenge that she is excited about.&nbsp;

"It’s a big change from working in surgery, to teaching it," Rice said. "I’m looking forward to all of the challenges and adventures that await me here."

Holly Boomer and Jeffrey Downey are the newest English instructors at WNCC.&nbsp;

Boomer received her bachelor's and master's degrees from Chadron State College before earning a Ph.D. in English from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Boomer's career is full of stops in several states as an instructor and an administrator. She said that watching students learn and reach their goals is fulfilling.&nbsp;

"Teaching has been one of my most authentic career experiences because it requires engagement that is purposeful, passionate, and supportive, and as educators if we want to help students learn then we must model life-long learning," Boomer said. "Assisting students to reach their learning and career goals is fulfilling, as I’m witness to graduates who are empowered to change their lives and their communities."

Downey started his college education at WNCC, before transferring to UNL and eventually receiving a master's degree from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. He has been&nbsp;teaching&nbsp;composition, literature, and&nbsp;English classes in several varieties for the last decade. Last year, he started working for WNCC as an adult education&nbsp;instructor and discovered how much WNCC cares for the community and its students.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"I love the community college model, the interdisciplinary approach, the ratio of&nbsp;faculty&nbsp;to students, and the role that WNCC plays in the community," Downey said. "The smaller setting fosters that kind of collaboration and allows for more collective effort when helping students.&nbsp;I also appreciate how nimble and proactive a community college can be. Last year, WNCC went on a “listening tour” in the panhandle. Already this fall&nbsp;new&nbsp;projects,&nbsp;new&nbsp;initiatives are underway, as a result of that listening tour."

By WNCCSCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (Oct. 17, 2022) -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College welcomed three new faculty members for the Fall 2022 semester. One joined WNCC's Surgical Technology program and the two others are English instructors.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666048904054.png" alt="Pictured from left: WNCC English Instructors Holly Boomer and Jeffrey Downey, and Surgical Technology Instructor Alyssa Rice.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Pictured from left: WNCC English Instructors Holly Boomer and Jeffrey Downey, and Surgical Technology Instructor Alyssa Rice.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Alyssa Rice, who was most&nbsp;recently an adjunct instructor for the Surgical Technology program, accepted a full-time position in August. Before that, she worked at Regional West Medical Center's Operating&nbsp;Room and the Oregon Trail Eye Surgery Center. She said it's been an adjustment from the operating room to the class room, but a challenge that she is excited about.&nbsp;"It’s a big change from working in surgery, to teaching it," Rice said. "I’m looking forward to all of the challenges and adventures that await me here."Holly Boomer and Jeffrey Downey are the newest English instructors at WNCC.&nbsp;Boomer received her bachelor's and master's degrees from Chadron State College before earning a Ph.D. in English from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Boomer's career is full of stops in several states as an instructor and an administrator. She said that watching students learn and reach their goals is fulfilling.&nbsp;"Teaching has been one of my most authentic career experiences because it requires engagement that is purposeful, passionate, and supportive, and as educators if we want to help students learn then we must model life-long learning," Boomer said. "Assisting students to reach their learning and career goals is fulfilling, as I’m witness to graduates who are empowered to change their lives and their communities."Downey started his college education at WNCC, before transferring to UNL and eventually receiving a master's degree from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. He has been&nbsp;teaching&nbsp;composition, literature, and&nbsp;English classes in several varieties for the last decade. Last year, he started working for WNCC as an adult education&nbsp;instructor and discovered how much WNCC cares for the community and its students.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I love the community college model, the interdisciplinary approach, the ratio of&nbsp;faculty&nbsp;to students, and the role that WNCC plays in the community," Downey said. "The smaller setting fosters that kind of collaboration and allows for more collective effort when helping students.&nbsp;I also appreciate how nimble and proactive a community college can be. Last year, WNCC went on a “listening tour” in the panhandle. Already this fall&nbsp;new&nbsp;projects,&nbsp;new&nbsp;initiatives are underway, as a result of that listening tour."

WNCC's newest faculty members enjoying start of semester

By RON FIELDS <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>

On Aug. 31, a little-known but fast-growing broadband company received nearly half a billion dollars from the federal government to expand rural access, including in Kansas and Nebraska.

Texas-based <a href="https://nextlinkinternet.com/">Nextlink Internet</a> plans to deploy a mix of fiber and fixed wireless services across 11 states with funding from the Federal Communications Commission's Rural Broadband Opportunity Fund.

“We are excited to partner with the FCC to deploy gigabit connectivity to households across rural America," Bill Baker, co-founder and CEO, said in a statement. "With significant licensed spectrum holdings to support gigabit wireless plus fiber projects ready to kick-off construction, we are well-positioned to move quickly to connect the unconnected.”

Of the $429 million committed by the FCC, more than $50 million is devoted to expansion in Kansas and Nebraska, creating service for an additional 26,000 customers in Kansas and 14,000 in Nebraska. 

"The majority of it is fixed wireless, but fiber is a growing part of our business and will be going forward," said Claude Aiken, Nextlink chief strategy officer. "One of the benefits of fixed wireless is it's quicker and less costly to deploy ... and is relatively easily upgradeable."

Fixed wireless uses an access point — generally located on an existing tower or other high point in a service area — to connect customers who otherwise are unable to get high-speed service via a traditional provider.

Aiken said a typical fixed wireless deployment generally offers 100 MB download and 20 MB upload speeds, although he said the company's technology could offer much higher speeds.

"The technology has really improved by leaps and bounds over the course of the past few years," he said. "We just did a deal with Wise County, Texas, to build out 500-by-100 across 95 percent of the county."

COMING SOON: Legacy broadband providers react to massive FCC award for Nextlink

In 2021, <a href="https://nextlinkinternet.com/american-tower-rural-america/">Nextlink and American Tower entered into a colocation agreement,</a> allowing Nextlink to place equipment on more than 1,000 existing towers across 11 states.

"We do a mix of different things with towers. We'll construct our own, we'll leverage our partnership with American Tower where it makes sense .. or find a high point in a community," Aiken said. "Whatever the best solution is to get to the community."

While there is no specific build schedule or timelines yet, the FCC requires RDOF projects to be completed within six years, with requirements that milestones of completion are met after two years and then annually.

Nextlink already has offices in both Kansas (Kingman, Goddard, Salina, Great Bend) and Nebraska (Hastings, Norfolk, Lincoln, Beatrice), and Aiken said Nextlink plans more expansion as its service area grows.

"It's still a little preliminary to say what's going where," he said. "In the near term, it will be where we have existing public/private partnerships. But we're always looking at new areas for growth and folks who really need high-quality connectivity ... where it makes economic sense and where there is a community need."

While the federal fund is targeted at those who lack rural high-speed internet access, Aiken said there is a competitive aspect to the expansion, as well, offering a second option for some customers.

However, Aiken said some providers without the capital to build into rural areas have welcomed Nextlink.

"In having some of those conversations with other providers, there are some folks who are very happy to kind of stay in their existing footprint and service folks in town and not do the hard work of connecting the far-flung farmland and ranchland," Aiken said. "On the other hand, we do compete and offer that second option."

Nextlink currently serves 88,000 homes and businesses across its seven-state footprint and employs 950. In 2017, when the company served only an area on the outskirts of Dallas-Fort Forth, the company employed 150. 

"Projecting forward, we anticipate pretty significant employee growth in Kansas and Nebraska," Aiken said, noting the project builds and deployment will be kept in-house "as much as possible."

This is the second major influx of federal dollars to fuel growth at Nextlink. <a href="https://www.fiercewireless.com/tech/here-s-how-nextlink-biggest-caf-ii-auction-winner-spending-its-281m">In 2018, the company was awarded $281 million</a> as part of the Connect America Fund Phase II program, which sparked expansion into Kansas and Nebraska.

"We were on track for 40 percent (completion) milestone at the end of 2022 ... but now we are 50 percent done. In Kansas, that actually is at about 60 percent complete," Aiken said.

Nextlink is owned by <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/profile/company/1754156D:US">AMG Technology Investments LLC</a> and currently serves customers in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Illinois, Iowa and South Dakota. With the RDOF award, the company plans to expand into Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Wyoming and Louisiana.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662136805159.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON FIELDS <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>On Aug. 31, a little-known but fast-growing broadband company received nearly half a billion dollars from the federal government to expand rural access, including in Kansas and Nebraska.Texas-based <a href="https://nextlinkinternet.com/">Nextlink Internet</a> plans to deploy a mix of fiber and fixed wireless services across 11 states with funding from the Federal Communications Commission's Rural Broadband Opportunity Fund.“We are excited to partner with the FCC to deploy gigabit connectivity to households across rural America," Bill Baker, co-founder and CEO, said in a statement. "With significant licensed spectrum holdings to support gigabit wireless plus fiber projects ready to kick-off construction, we are well-positioned to move quickly to connect the unconnected.”Of the $429 million committed by the FCC, more than $50 million is devoted to expansion in Kansas and Nebraska, creating service for an additional 26,000 customers in Kansas and 14,000 in Nebraska. "The majority of it is fixed wireless, but fiber is a growing part of our business and will be going forward," said Claude Aiken, Nextlink chief strategy officer. "One of the benefits of fixed wireless is it's quicker and less costly to deploy ... and is relatively easily upgradeable."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665422995103.png" alt="Aiken" />
 <figcaption>Aiken</figcaption>
 </figure>Fixed wireless uses an access point — generally located on an existing tower or other high point in a service area — to connect customers who otherwise are unable to get high-speed service via a traditional provider.Aiken said a typical fixed wireless deployment generally offers 100 MB download and 20 MB upload speeds, although he said the company's technology could offer much higher speeds."The technology has really improved by leaps and bounds over the course of the past few years," he said. "We just did a deal with Wise County, Texas, to build out 500-by-100 across 95 percent of the county."COMING SOON: Legacy broadband providers react to massive FCC award for NextlinkIn 2021, <a href="https://nextlinkinternet.com/american-tower-rural-america/">Nextlink and American Tower entered into a colocation agreement,</a> allowing Nextlink to place equipment on more than 1,000 existing towers across 11 states."We do a mix of different things with towers. We'll construct our own, we'll leverage our partnership with American Tower where it makes sense .. or find a high point in a community," Aiken said. "Whatever the best solution is to get to the community."While there is no specific build schedule or timelines yet, the FCC requires RDOF projects to be completed within six years, with requirements that milestones of completion are met after two years and then annually.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665423054163.png" alt="Active Nextlink coverage map in Nebraska. <a href="https://nextlinkinternet.com/areas-we-serve/internet-in-nebraska/">Click HERE to see a list of communities.&nbsp;</a>" />
 <figcaption>Active Nextlink coverage map in Nebraska. <a href="https://nextlinkinternet.com/areas-we-serve/internet-in-nebraska/">Click HERE to see a list of communities.&nbsp;</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Nextlink already has offices in both Kansas (Kingman, Goddard, Salina, Great Bend) and Nebraska (Hastings, Norfolk, Lincoln, Beatrice), and Aiken said Nextlink plans more expansion as its service area grows.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665423081924.png" alt="Active Nextlink coverage map in Kansas. <a href="https://nextlinkinternet.com/areas-we-serve/internet-in-kansas/">Click HERE to see a list of communities.</a>" />
 <figcaption>Active Nextlink coverage map in Kansas. <a href="https://nextlinkinternet.com/areas-we-serve/internet-in-kansas/">Click HERE to see a list of communities.</a></figcaption>
 </figure>"It's still a little preliminary to say what's going where," he said. "In the near term, it will be where we have existing public/private partnerships. But we're always looking at new areas for growth and folks who really need high-quality connectivity ... where it makes economic sense and where there is a community need."While the federal fund is targeted at those who lack rural high-speed internet access, Aiken said there is a competitive aspect to the expansion, as well, offering a second option for some customers.However, Aiken said some providers without the capital to build into rural areas have welcomed Nextlink."In having some of those conversations with other providers, there are some folks who are very happy to kind of stay in their existing footprint and service folks in town and not do the hard work of connecting the far-flung farmland and ranchland," Aiken said. "On the other hand, we do compete and offer that second option."Nextlink currently serves 88,000 homes and businesses across its seven-state footprint and employs 950. In 2017, when the company served only an area on the outskirts of Dallas-Fort Forth, the company employed 150. "Projecting forward, we anticipate pretty significant employee growth in Kansas and Nebraska," Aiken said, noting the project builds and deployment will be kept in-house "as much as possible."This is the second major influx of federal dollars to fuel growth at Nextlink. <a href="https://www.fiercewireless.com/tech/here-s-how-nextlink-biggest-caf-ii-auction-winner-spending-its-281m">In 2018, the company was awarded $281 million</a> as part of the Connect America Fund Phase II program, which sparked expansion into Kansas and Nebraska. "We were on track for 40 percent (completion) milestone at the end of 2022 ... but now we are 50 percent done. In Kansas, that actually is at about 60 percent complete," Aiken said.Nextlink is owned by <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/profile/company/1754156D:US">AMG Technology Investments LLC</a> and currently serves customers in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Illinois, Iowa and South Dakota. With the RDOF award, the company plans to expand into Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Wyoming and Louisiana.

Nextlink to pour $50M into Kansas, Nebraska rural broadband access

By: Mike Glesinger&nbsp; Panhandle Post.&nbsp; Thanks to&nbsp; The Governors Office and Nebraska Dept of Transportation

Local and State Officals celebrated the completion of the latest segment of the Heartland Expressway on Monday morning.&nbsp; Governor Pete Ricketts,&nbsp; Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney,&nbsp; NDOT Director John Selmer and  NDOT Dist. 5 Construction Engineer Doug Hoevet were in attendance  at the ribbon cutting that was held north of Angora on the new  southbound lanes of Highway 385. 

The Heartland Expressway, when completed,  will provide multilane, divided highway access between Rapid City, South Dakota and Denver, Colorado,&nbsp; via Alliance and  Scottsbluff,&nbsp; and Brush, Colorado.&nbsp; Monday's event celebrated the completion of the expansion of Highway 385 to 4 lanes from just south of the Box Butte County line to the L-62A intersection south of Angora.&nbsp;

With support from local advocates, NDOT has been making significant progress on the Heartland Expressway. &nbsp;Funds from the Build Nebraska Act and the Transportation Innovation Act have enabled NDOT to move forward on the corridor. &nbsp;Additionally, the agency won an $18.3 million grant in the summer of 2018 through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) program to complete the 14-mile stretch south of Alliance.

“The Heartland Expressway will be a vital north-south corridor within our national transportation network,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Its construction will significantly increase the flow of freight from America’s border with Canada all the way to ports along the Gulf of Mexico. &nbsp;The completion of the Heartland Expressway will create great opportunities for economic growth in the Nebraska Panhandle as businesses make use of this strategic transportation route.&nbsp;&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to NDOT, IHC-Scott, and local and regional supporters on the opening of this major segment of the expressway.”&nbsp;

HC-Scott, Inc. of Centennial, Colorado was awarded the $32 million contract to complete the 14-mile segment of the Heartland Expressway from the L-62A / US-385 junction north toward Alliance. &nbsp;Work began in the spring of 2021 and included grading, safety improvements, and expansion of the roadway.

“The work completed here is only the next phase in a longer, multi-year project,” said NDOT Director John Selmer. &nbsp;“We are here to celebrate progress on a system that will improve mobility in the region and enhance safety.&nbsp; We look forward to being out here again, celebrating the next segment completion.”

“The Heartland Expressway has been long awaited by the Panhandle and the citizens who call it home,” said Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney.&nbsp; “Our communities and our organizations are committed to this project and its ability to meet transportation needs for Nebraskans in the region for years to come.”

Completion of the Heartland Expressway is expected to bring long-term economic development throughout the corridor as higher speed, multi-lane access makes development sites more attractive.&nbsp; Alliance has seen several new bussinesses open along the Expressway on the west side of Alliance including Maverik, Bomgaars, Runza, Pepsi-Cola of Western Nebraska (LinPepCo) and Holiday Inn Express.&nbsp; Several other businesses and an extended stay hotel are also planned in that area.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666040095217.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666044242404.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (center), NDOT Director John Selmer (right) and Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney (left) at Monday's ceremony." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (center), NDOT Director John Selmer (right) and Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney (left) at Monday's ceremony.</figcaption>
 </figure>By: Mike Glesinger&nbsp; Panhandle Post.&nbsp; Thanks to&nbsp; The Governors Office and Nebraska Dept of TransportationLocal and State Officals celebrated the completion of the latest segment of the Heartland Expressway on Monday morning.&nbsp; Governor Pete Ricketts,&nbsp; Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney,&nbsp; NDOT Director John Selmer and NDOT Dist. 5 Construction Engineer Doug Hoevet were in attendance at the ribbon cutting that was held north of Angora on the new southbound lanes of Highway 385. The Heartland Expressway, when completed, will provide multilane, divided highway access between Rapid City, South Dakota and Denver, Colorado,&nbsp; via Alliance and Scottsbluff,&nbsp; and Brush, Colorado.&nbsp; Monday's event celebrated the completion of the expansion of Highway 385 to 4 lanes from just south of the Box Butte County line to the L-62A intersection south of Angora.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666040517432.jpeg" alt="courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666040993367.jpeg" alt="courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>With support from local advocates, NDOT has been making significant progress on the Heartland Expressway. &nbsp;Funds from the Build Nebraska Act and the Transportation Innovation Act have enabled NDOT to move forward on the corridor. &nbsp;Additionally, the agency won an $18.3 million grant in the summer of 2018 through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) program to complete the 14-mile stretch south of Alliance.“The Heartland Expressway will be a vital north-south corridor within our national transportation network,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Its construction will significantly increase the flow of freight from America’s border with Canada all the way to ports along the Gulf of Mexico. &nbsp;The completion of the Heartland Expressway will create great opportunities for economic growth in the Nebraska Panhandle as businesses make use of this strategic transportation route.&nbsp;&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to NDOT, IHC-Scott, and local and regional supporters on the opening of this major segment of the expressway.”&nbsp;HC-Scott, Inc. of Centennial, Colorado was awarded the $32 million contract to complete the 14-mile segment of the Heartland Expressway from the L-62A / US-385 junction north toward Alliance. &nbsp;Work began in the spring of 2021 and included grading, safety improvements, and expansion of the roadway.“The work completed here is only the next phase in a longer, multi-year project,” said NDOT Director John Selmer. &nbsp;“We are here to celebrate progress on a system that will improve mobility in the region and enhance safety.&nbsp; We look forward to being out here again, celebrating the next segment completion.”“The Heartland Expressway has been long awaited by the Panhandle and the citizens who call it home,” said Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney.&nbsp; “Our communities and our organizations are committed to this project and its ability to meet transportation needs for Nebraskans in the region for years to come.”Completion of the Heartland Expressway is expected to bring long-term economic development throughout the corridor as higher speed, multi-lane access makes development sites more attractive.&nbsp; Alliance has seen several new bussinesses open along the Expressway on the west side of Alliance including Maverik, Bomgaars, Runza, Pepsi-Cola of Western Nebraska (LinPepCo) and Holiday Inn Express.&nbsp; Several other businesses and an extended stay hotel are also planned in that area.&nbsp;

Local, state officials celebrate latest completion of the Heartland Expressway

By: Panhandle Post News.&nbsp; &nbsp;Thanks to: Cpl. Royce Massie, Scottsbluff Police Dept.&nbsp;

Officers with the Scottsbluff Police Department were dispatched to the 1000 block of South Beltline Highway-East, early Monday morning to the scene of an injury accident.&nbsp; According to a media release,&nbsp; &nbsp;A westbound GMC Terrain driven by a 41 year old female from Scottsbluff left the roadway and traveled approximately 100 yards off-road before crashing into a drainage ditch.&nbsp; The female was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was transported to Regional West Medical Center for minor injuries.&nbsp; 

A medical episode is believed to be a contributing factor to the accident, and no citations have been issued.&nbsp; &nbsp;A seatbelt was in use at the time of collision.&nbsp; 

Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Scottsbluff Fire Department, Scottsbluff Rural Fire Department, and Valley Ambulance all assisted.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666031154386.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Panhandle Post News.&nbsp; &nbsp;Thanks to: Cpl. Royce Massie, Scottsbluff Police Dept.&nbsp;Officers with the Scottsbluff Police Department were dispatched to the 1000 block of South Beltline Highway-East, early Monday morning to the scene of an injury accident.&nbsp; According to a media release,&nbsp; &nbsp;A westbound GMC Terrain driven by a 41 year old female from Scottsbluff left the roadway and traveled approximately 100 yards off-road before crashing into a drainage ditch.&nbsp; The female was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was transported to Regional West Medical Center for minor injuries.&nbsp; A medical episode is believed to be a contributing factor to the accident, and no citations have been issued.&nbsp; &nbsp;A seatbelt was in use at the time of collision.&nbsp; Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Scottsbluff Fire Department, Scottsbluff Rural Fire Department, and Valley Ambulance all assisted.&nbsp;

Scottsbluff Injury Accident

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 10/17/22

CHADRON – The Fall 2022 Chadron State College Graves Lecture series will feature a wide variety of topics including broadcasting, chiropractics, and biking. The lectures are free and open to the public at the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium. Some lectures are archived on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/chadronstatecollege" target="_blank">CSC YouTube Channel</a>.

The series begins Tuesday at 7 p.m. with CSC Digital Graphic Designer Daniel Binkard, who will present 10 Years of CSC Live. During his presentation, Binkard will provide the audience with a history of the live streaming service and show the audience what goes on behind the scenes during a CSC live broadcast.

Associate Professor Dr. Rachelle Rider, a licensed and practicing chiropractor, will discuss how feet are the foundation of health for the body Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. Her presentation, It all Starts with the Feet: How Foot Posture Affects your Body, will feature audience interaction and include a live demonstration with a patient.

The fall series will conclude Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. with Social Science Professor Dr. Kurt Kinbacher, Associate Professor of English Dr. Mary Clai Jones, Assistant Professor of English Dr. Markus Jones, and CSC student Jace Demeranville. The group will present Crossing the Continent on Two Wheels: The Speed Goat Chronicles. In the program, the group members will discuss their 70-day journey bicycling from Chadron to Washington D.C., then riding a train from D.C. to Seattle, and bicycling from Seattle back to Chadron.

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – The Fall 2022 Chadron State College Graves Lecture series will feature a wide variety of topics including broadcasting, chiropractics, and biking. The lectures are free and open to the public at the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium. Some lectures are archived on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/chadronstatecollege" target="_blank">CSC YouTube Channel</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665959655370.jpeg" alt="CSC Digital Graphic Designer Daniel Binkard will present 10 Years of CSC Live Oct. 18, 2022. The program will be a history of the live streaming service explaining the processes and preparation behind the scenes to produce a CSC live broadcast. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>CSC Digital Graphic Designer Daniel Binkard will present 10 Years of CSC Live Oct. 18, 2022. The program will be a history of the live streaming service explaining the processes and preparation behind the scenes to produce a CSC live broadcast. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>The series begins Tuesday at 7 p.m. with CSC Digital Graphic Designer Daniel Binkard, who will present 10 Years of CSC Live. During his presentation, Binkard will provide the audience with a history of the live streaming service and show the audience what goes on behind the scenes during a CSC live broadcast.Associate Professor Dr. Rachelle Rider, a licensed and practicing chiropractor, will discuss how feet are the foundation of health for the body Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. Her presentation, It all Starts with the Feet: How Foot Posture Affects your Body, will feature audience interaction and include a live demonstration with a patient.The fall series will conclude Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. with Social Science Professor Dr. Kurt Kinbacher, Associate Professor of English Dr. Mary Clai Jones, Assistant Professor of English Dr. Markus Jones, and CSC student Jace Demeranville. The group will present Crossing the Continent on Two Wheels: The Speed Goat Chronicles. In the program, the group members will discuss their 70-day journey bicycling from Chadron to Washington D.C., then riding a train from D.C. to Seattle, and bicycling from Seattle back to Chadron.

Fall 2022 Graves Lecture Series begins Tuesday in Chadron 

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — An environmental group filed a lawsuit Tuesday against U.S. Forest Service officials that alleges they polluted waterways during their campaigns against wildfires by inadvertently dropping large volumes of chemical flame retardant into streams.

Government data released earlier this year found aircraft operated or contracted by the Forest Service dropped more than 760,000 gallons (3.5 million liters) of fire retardant directly onto streams and other waterways between 2012 and 2019.

The main ingredients in fire retardant are inorganic fertilizers and salts that can be harmful to some fish, frogs, crustaceans and other aquatic species.

The lawsuit alleges the continued use of retardant from aircraft violates the Clean Water Act.

It requests a judge to declare the pollution illegal, and was filed in U.S. District Court in Montana by Forest Service Employees for Environmental Ethics.

“It's simply too toxic at the levels used fighting fires,” said Andy Stahl, the Eugene Oregon-based group's executive director.

Forest Service officials in recent years have sought to avoid polluting streams during their fights against wildfires by imposing buffer zones around waterways where drops are restricted. Under a 2011 government decision, fire retardant may only be applied in designated “avoidance areas” where human life or public safety is threatened and retardant could help.

Officials in February proposed continuing the aerial retardant program with minor changes. A final decision is pending.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2022-02/2022-Aerial-Fire-Retardant-DraftSEIS.pdf">government study accompanying the proposal</a>&nbsp;determined that misapplied retardant landing n avoidance areas was likely to adversely affect dozens of imperiled species, including crawfish, spotted owls and fish such as shiners and suckers. The study was done in response to new data about retardant that's misapplied, changes in the status of some affected species and changes in avoidance areas.

Forest Service spokesperson Wade Muehlhof said it was agency practice not to comment on active litigation.

By Associated PressBILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — An environmental group filed a lawsuit Tuesday against U.S. Forest Service officials that alleges they polluted waterways during their campaigns against wildfires by inadvertently dropping large volumes of chemical flame retardant into streams.Government data released earlier this year found aircraft operated or contracted by the Forest Service dropped more than 760,000 gallons (3.5 million liters) of fire retardant directly onto streams and other waterways between 2012 and 2019.The main ingredients in fire retardant are inorganic fertilizers and salts that can be harmful to some fish, frogs, crustaceans and other aquatic species.The lawsuit alleges the continued use of retardant from aircraft violates the Clean Water Act.It requests a judge to declare the pollution illegal, and was filed in U.S. District Court in Montana by Forest Service Employees for Environmental Ethics.“It's simply too toxic at the levels used fighting fires,” said Andy Stahl, the Eugene Oregon-based group's executive director.Forest Service officials in recent years have sought to avoid polluting streams during their fights against wildfires by imposing buffer zones around waterways where drops are restricted. Under a 2011 government decision, fire retardant may only be applied in designated “avoidance areas” where human life or public safety is threatened and retardant could help.Officials in February proposed continuing the aerial retardant program with minor changes. A final decision is pending.A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2022-02/2022-Aerial-Fire-Retardant-DraftSEIS.pdf">government study accompanying the proposal</a>&nbsp;determined that misapplied retardant landing n avoidance areas was likely to adversely affect dozens of imperiled species, including crawfish, spotted owls and fish such as shiners and suckers. The study was done in response to new data about retardant that's misapplied, changes in the status of some affected species and changes in avoidance areas.Forest Service spokesperson Wade Muehlhof said it was agency practice not to comment on active litigation.

US sued for pollution from retardant drops on wildfires

Nebraska offers long seasons and abundant opportunities to harvest furbearers and coyotes throughout the state.

These animals are common in Nebraska, and most are found statewide. Regulated harvest of these mammals is an important management tool for controlling populations to reduce problems they can cause people and property.

Hunting and trapping seasons typically are designed to allow the harvest of furbearers during the fall and winter, when the pelts are prime, and the animals are less likely to have dependent young. This provides hunters an opportunity to earn extra income, play a role in the species management and enjoy time outdoors.

Nebraska has three furbearers that only may be trapped – muskrats, beavers and river otters. Raccoons and opossums have an early hunting-only season. Those two species, along with bobcats, badgers, mink, long-tailed weasels, red fox, gray fox and striped skunks, also have seasons where they may be hunted or trapped.

Hunting and trapping are permitted statewide, except where closed by federal, state or local laws or regulations. Hunters and trappers must get permission before hunting or trapping on private land that is not part of a public access program.

River otters have a season bag limit of one for each harvester and an overall limit of 125 for the season. For other furbearers, there is no bag limit for Nebraska residents. Nonresidents may harvest up to 1,000 furbearers, with a fee for each additional 100 furbearers taken over 1,000.

For residents ages 16 and older, a fur harvest permit and habitat stamp are required to hunt or trap furbearers in Nebraska; no permit is needed for residents to harvest coyotes. Nonresidents need a nonresident small game permit for coyotes and a nonresident fur harvest permit and habitat stamp to harvest furbearers.

Residents may buy fur harvest permits at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.H9CVH6Y33u6yHl2g5QbycGID2kOU7_l78-u0iskU7lk/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>, but nonresident permits only may be purchased at Game and Parks’ Lincoln office. Call 402-471-5457.

Find more information on furbearer hunting and trapping in the Nebraska Small Game and Waterfowl Guide. It is available wherever permits are sold or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.GlCRqtYokkLKGv5yDhdmm_HbX2rRD7i5qKxA934OzIw/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">Outdoornebraska.gov/guides</a>.

The 2022-2023 Nebraska furbearer seasons are:

Muskrat and beaver – Nov. 1, 2022-March 31, 2023

River otter – Nov. 1, 2022-Feb. 28, 2023, unless the limit of 125 is met earlier

Raccoon, Virginia opossum – Sept. 1, 2022-Oct. 31, 2022

Badger, mink, long-tailed weasel, raccoon, Virginia opossum, red fox, gray fox – Nov. 1, 2022-Feb. 28, 2023

By Nebraska Game and ParksNebraska offers long seasons and abundant opportunities to harvest furbearers and coyotes throughout the state.These animals are common in Nebraska, and most are found statewide. Regulated harvest of these mammals is an important management tool for controlling populations to reduce problems they can cause people and property.Hunting and trapping seasons typically are designed to allow the harvest of furbearers during the fall and winter, when the pelts are prime, and the animals are less likely to have dependent young. This provides hunters an opportunity to earn extra income, play a role in the species management and enjoy time outdoors.Nebraska has three furbearers that only may be trapped – muskrats, beavers and river otters. Raccoons and opossums have an early hunting-only season. Those two species, along with bobcats, badgers, mink, long-tailed weasels, red fox, gray fox and striped skunks, also have seasons where they may be hunted or trapped.Hunting and trapping are permitted statewide, except where closed by federal, state or local laws or regulations. Hunters and trappers must get permission before hunting or trapping on private land that is not part of a public access program.River otters have a season bag limit of one for each harvester and an overall limit of 125 for the season. For other furbearers, there is no bag limit for Nebraska residents. Nonresidents may harvest up to 1,000 furbearers, with a fee for each additional 100 furbearers taken over 1,000.For residents ages 16 and older, a fur harvest permit and habitat stamp are required to hunt or trap furbearers in Nebraska; no permit is needed for residents to harvest coyotes. Nonresidents need a nonresident small game permit for coyotes and a nonresident fur harvest permit and habitat stamp to harvest furbearers.Residents may buy fur harvest permits at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.H9CVH6Y33u6yHl2g5QbycGID2kOU7_l78-u0iskU7lk/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>, but nonresident permits only may be purchased at Game and Parks’ Lincoln office. Call 402-471-5457.Find more information on furbearer hunting and trapping in the Nebraska Small Game and Waterfowl Guide. It is available wherever permits are sold or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.GlCRqtYokkLKGv5yDhdmm_HbX2rRD7i5qKxA934OzIw/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">Outdoornebraska.gov/guides</a>.The 2022-2023 Nebraska furbearer seasons are:TrappingMuskrat and beaver – Nov. 1, 2022-March 31, 2023River otter – Nov. 1, 2022-Feb. 28, 2023, unless the limit of 125 is met earlierHuntingRaccoon, Virginia opossum – Sept. 1, 2022-Oct. 31, 2022Hunting and trappingBadger, mink, long-tailed weasel, raccoon, Virginia opossum, red fox, gray fox – Nov. 1, 2022-Feb. 28, 2023Bobcat – Dec. 1, 2022-Feb. 28, 2023Striped skunk – year-roundCoyote – year-round

Nebraska has abundant fur harvesting opportunities

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, S.D. – The 1038-acre Headquarters Prescribed Fire is planned for Sunday and Monday, October 16 and 17. Conditions are currently predicted to be within prescription, and ignition is planned to begin mid-morning.&nbsp;

There will be an operational briefing for firefighters at 7:30 a.m. Sunday at the park’s fire cache (see attached map) followed by a test burn around 9 a.m. (location dependent on wind direction). If conditions remain in prescription, the main fire will then be started. Trails and other locations, outside of non-administrative roads and parking areas, will be closed to everyone but fire personnel&nbsp;

What:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1038-acre prescribed fire.&nbsp;

Where:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Headquarters’ area of Wind Cave National Park.&nbsp;

When:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sunday and Monday, October 16 and 17.&nbsp;

Closures:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Highways 385 and 87 and the headquarters north and south access roads will be closed periodically due to smoke and nearby flames for up to one hour at a time. Smoke could be heavy at times in the developed area and nearby roads. &nbsp;

By Wind Cave National ParkWIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, S.D. – The 1038-acre Headquarters Prescribed Fire is planned for Sunday and Monday, October 16 and 17. Conditions are currently predicted to be within prescription, and ignition is planned to begin mid-morning.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665775385503.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>There will be an operational briefing for firefighters at 7:30 a.m. Sunday at the park’s fire cache (see attached map) followed by a test burn around 9 a.m. (location dependent on wind direction). If conditions remain in prescription, the main fire will then be started. Trails and other locations, outside of non-administrative roads and parking areas, will be closed to everyone but fire personnel&nbsp;What:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1038-acre prescribed fire.&nbsp;Where:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Headquarters’ area of Wind Cave National Park.&nbsp;When:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sunday and Monday, October 16 and 17.&nbsp;Closures:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Highways 385 and 87 and the headquarters north and south access roads will be closed periodically due to smoke and nearby flames for up to one hour at a time. Smoke could be heavy at times in the developed area and nearby roads. &nbsp;

Prescribed fire planned for Oct. 16, 17 at Wind Cave National Park 

SIDNEY, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a New York woman after locating more than 100 pounds of suspected marijuana during a traffic stop on Interstate 80 near Sunol.

At approximately 10:15 p.m. MT Thursday, a trooper observed an eastbound Mazda CX9 speeding on I-80 near mile marker 70. 

During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.

A search of the vehicle revealed approximately 103 pounds of suspected marijuana, concealed in luggage in the rear of the vehicle. 

The driver, Victoria Chin, 48, of Brooklyn, New York, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound and possession with intent to distribute. She was lodged in Cheyenne County Jail.

By Nebraska State PatrolSIDNEY, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a New York woman after locating more than 100 pounds of suspected marijuana during a traffic stop on Interstate 80 near Sunol.At approximately 10:15 p.m. MT Thursday, a trooper observed an eastbound Mazda CX9 speeding on I-80 near mile marker 70. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.A search of the vehicle revealed approximately 103 pounds of suspected marijuana, concealed in luggage in the rear of the vehicle. The driver, Victoria Chin, 48, of Brooklyn, New York, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound and possession with intent to distribute. She was lodged in Cheyenne County Jail.

103 LBs of suspected marijuana found in Panhandle traffic stop

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — They had waited in the desert heat in a line that wrapped around the block and now the excitement was palpable when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kristi-noem">South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem</a>&nbsp;took the stage in a suburban Phoenix convention hall. “She's our governor!” someone yelled.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kari-lake-arizona-governor-election-karrin-taylor-robson-e8f6cb66e63bc63464d149112d77d2a4">Kari Lake</a>, the Republican nominee for governor in Arizona who hosted the event this past week, stood beside Noem and joined in the praise. She called Noem an “inspiration” who stood up for families against intrusive government mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The warm reception was familiar to Noem, who has made such appearances part of building her national profile as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-government-and-politics-health-michael-pence-south-dakota-8f89d45581d32c5c2f2fc23fc2f439e8">potential 2024 White House contender</a>.

“I wish I could vote for a woman like that,” Lake said. “But I don’t live in South Dakota.”

If Noem has ambitions beyond her state, she must first take care of political business back home: winning a second term in November.

Many expected her to cruise to victory in a Republican-dominated state against a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elections-kristi-noem-south-dakota-sd-state-wire-sioux-falls-4af20c88a1604d55513835a753cb70d7">Democratic opponent without statewide experience</a>. But her frequent out-of-state travels, as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kristi-noem-south-dakota-872aa9adc02bdbe4c6147c671e91053e">recent ethics stumbles</a>, have given Democrats license to dream of an upset — or at least making the race close enough to raise questions about Noem's viability on a bigger stage.

Drey Samuelson, a longtime Democratic strategist in the state, said few people gave Democratic state Rep. Jamie Smith much of a chance when he announced his campaign for governor, given Smith's lack of name recognition and Noem's massive fundraising advantage. Republicans have almost doubled Democrats on voter rolls and Smith's highest political experience was leading House Democrats — a beleaguered band that has dwindled to eight members.

But Smith has run a shrewd race by seeking to turn Noem's ambition against her, Samuelson said.

"Everyone I talk to, both Republicans and Democrats, believes that he has closed the gap on her," he said.

Noem did not grant an interview request for this story. Her campaign spokesman, Ian Fury, said Noem “has never taken a single election for granted.”

“She works hard for her constituents, she works hard on the campaign trail and she is going to run through the finish line," he said.

Her recent stop in Arizona, which was also the site of a family wedding, was just one appearance in more than a dozen states this campaign cycle.

Noem's campaign has argued that lending a hand to fellow Republicans helps advance the conservative cause. But she has also paid to boost her campaign ads on Facebook in Iowa, South Carolina and New Hampshire — important early presidential primary states — and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/south-dakota-gov-kristi-noems-take-on-2024-trump-and-the-jan-6-hearings-the-takeout/">granted several interviews</a>&nbsp;where she warmed to the idea of running for the White House.

The governor sailed through spring and summer, releasing an autobiography, creating a nationwide fundraising network that amassed nearly $12 million and publicly reconnecting with Corey Lewandowski, Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign manager. Noem had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-campaigns-kristi-noem-south-dakota-corey-lewandowski-6edc03cb8e2139a1434db7c00d3f3e8b">severed ties last year</a>&nbsp;with Lewandowski after he was accused by a donor of making unwanted sexual advances at a fundraiser that Noem and Lewandowski both attended.

Smith, with $900,000 raised for his campaign, has gone around the state in his pickup, visiting every county in his long shot challenge. Panning Noem’s out-of-state trips has been a recurring theme of his campaign.

“We need a leader that’s focused on the state of South Dakota, that’s working for the people and that truly cares about what’s best for the state,” Smith told The Associated Press.

Smith, a real estate agent who has also worked as a teacher and coach, has cast himself as a moderate and so far has run a mostly upbeat campaign. During his lone debate with Noem, he only briefly mentioned ethics complaints that have dogged her in recent months, including her intervention with a state agency in the application by one of her daughters for a real estate appraiser's license. The state ethics board, on a matter first reported by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-discrimination-kristi-noem-south-dakota-age-discrimination-7942a78d5545205dff41a696ef9fc251">the AP</a>, found evidence of misconduct but has not revealed its action against her.

Michael Card, a former political strategist and professor at the University of South Dakota, said Noem has made herself vulnerable on those issues, while also irking many teachers and school administrators by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-donald-trump-michigan-south-dakota-sioux-falls-54712a652c5a0f1f74deebe280dcfc01">naming a conservative college in Michigan</a>&nbsp;to help remake the state's social studies standards. Noem also faces questions about whether she can win over women, especially after abortion emerged as a key election-year issue.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-abortion-inflation-kristi-noem-south-dakota-4486584822a85247954ec216b03ab3f6">Noem’s abortion stance</a>, without exceptions for rape and incest, may be out of step with South Dakotans, who voted in 2006 and 2008 against legislative attempts to completely ban the procedure.

“There are some lingering questions about whether she is ready for prime time,” Card said.

If nothing else, Smith seems to have Noem’s attention.

She recently came out with an ad that tied Smith to President Joe Biden, who won 36% of South Dakota’s vote in 2020. The governor grabbed hold of an issue Smith had pressed for years by promising to repeal a state tax on groceries. She also returned to campaigning quickly after announcing a back surgery she initially said could require several months for full recovery, with appearances in her traditional stronghold of Rapid City as well as the Arizona visit.

Alice Stewart, a Republican strategist who advised Texas Sen. Ted Cruz's 2016 presidential campaign, played down the idea that a narrow Noem victory would hurt her down the road. More important, Stewart said, is whether Noem is showing leadership on issues such as the economy, crime, parental rights and education that are important to broad groups of voters.

The grocery tax repeal was just such a move, along with a promise by Noem to expand parental leave opportunities.

But Casey Murschel, 71, said she plans to vote for Smith. A former GOP state representative in the Sioux Falls area, Murschel said the riot at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, led her to leave the party and identify as an independent. She said she trusts Smith to focus on governing the state and to advocate for abortion rights.

“Kristi has gone Hollywood,” she said. “She has basically turned her back on South Dakotans. We’re like props for her."

By Associated PressSCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — They had waited in the desert heat in a line that wrapped around the block and now the excitement was palpable when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kristi-noem">South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem</a>&nbsp;took the stage in a suburban Phoenix convention hall. “She's our governor!” someone yelled.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kari-lake-arizona-governor-election-karrin-taylor-robson-e8f6cb66e63bc63464d149112d77d2a4">Kari Lake</a>, the Republican nominee for governor in Arizona who hosted the event this past week, stood beside Noem and joined in the praise. She called Noem an “inspiration” who stood up for families against intrusive government mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic.The warm reception was familiar to Noem, who has made such appearances part of building her national profile as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-government-and-politics-health-michael-pence-south-dakota-8f89d45581d32c5c2f2fc23fc2f439e8">potential 2024 White House contender</a>.“I wish I could vote for a woman like that,” Lake said. “But I don’t live in South Dakota.”If Noem has ambitions beyond her state, she must first take care of political business back home: winning a second term in November.Many expected her to cruise to victory in a Republican-dominated state against a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elections-kristi-noem-south-dakota-sd-state-wire-sioux-falls-4af20c88a1604d55513835a753cb70d7">Democratic opponent without statewide experience</a>. But her frequent out-of-state travels, as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kristi-noem-south-dakota-872aa9adc02bdbe4c6147c671e91053e">recent ethics stumbles</a>, have given Democrats license to dream of an upset — or at least making the race close enough to raise questions about Noem's viability on a bigger stage.Drey Samuelson, a longtime Democratic strategist in the state, said few people gave Democratic state Rep. Jamie Smith much of a chance when he announced his campaign for governor, given Smith's lack of name recognition and Noem's massive fundraising advantage. Republicans have almost doubled Democrats on voter rolls and Smith's highest political experience was leading House Democrats — a beleaguered band that has dwindled to eight members.But Smith has run a shrewd race by seeking to turn Noem's ambition against her, Samuelson said."Everyone I talk to, both Republicans and Democrats, believes that he has closed the gap on her," he said.Noem did not grant an interview request for this story. Her campaign spokesman, Ian Fury, said Noem “has never taken a single election for granted.”“She works hard for her constituents, she works hard on the campaign trail and she is going to run through the finish line," he said.Her recent stop in Arizona, which was also the site of a family wedding, was just one appearance in more than a dozen states this campaign cycle.Noem's campaign has argued that lending a hand to fellow Republicans helps advance the conservative cause. But she has also paid to boost her campaign ads on Facebook in Iowa, South Carolina and New Hampshire — important early presidential primary states — and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/south-dakota-gov-kristi-noems-take-on-2024-trump-and-the-jan-6-hearings-the-takeout/">granted several interviews</a>&nbsp;where she warmed to the idea of running for the White House.The governor sailed through spring and summer, releasing an autobiography, creating a nationwide fundraising network that amassed nearly $12 million and publicly reconnecting with Corey Lewandowski, Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign manager. Noem had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-campaigns-kristi-noem-south-dakota-corey-lewandowski-6edc03cb8e2139a1434db7c00d3f3e8b">severed ties last year</a>&nbsp;with Lewandowski after he was accused by a donor of making unwanted sexual advances at a fundraiser that Noem and Lewandowski both attended.Smith, with $900,000 raised for his campaign, has gone around the state in his pickup, visiting every county in his long shot challenge. Panning Noem’s out-of-state trips has been a recurring theme of his campaign.“We need a leader that’s focused on the state of South Dakota, that’s working for the people and that truly cares about what’s best for the state,” Smith told The Associated Press.Smith, a real estate agent who has also worked as a teacher and coach, has cast himself as a moderate and so far has run a mostly upbeat campaign. During his lone debate with Noem, he only briefly mentioned ethics complaints that have dogged her in recent months, including her intervention with a state agency in the application by one of her daughters for a real estate appraiser's license. The state ethics board, on a matter first reported by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-discrimination-kristi-noem-south-dakota-age-discrimination-7942a78d5545205dff41a696ef9fc251">the AP</a>, found evidence of misconduct but has not revealed its action against her.Michael Card, a former political strategist and professor at the University of South Dakota, said Noem has made herself vulnerable on those issues, while also irking many teachers and school administrators by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-donald-trump-michigan-south-dakota-sioux-falls-54712a652c5a0f1f74deebe280dcfc01">naming a conservative college in Michigan</a>&nbsp;to help remake the state's social studies standards. Noem also faces questions about whether she can win over women, especially after abortion emerged as a key election-year issue.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-abortion-inflation-kristi-noem-south-dakota-4486584822a85247954ec216b03ab3f6">Noem’s abortion stance</a>, without exceptions for rape and incest, may be out of step with South Dakotans, who voted in 2006 and 2008 against legislative attempts to completely ban the procedure.“There are some lingering questions about whether she is ready for prime time,” Card said.If nothing else, Smith seems to have Noem’s attention.She recently came out with an ad that tied Smith to President Joe Biden, who won 36% of South Dakota’s vote in 2020. The governor grabbed hold of an issue Smith had pressed for years by promising to repeal a state tax on groceries. She also returned to campaigning quickly after announcing a back surgery she initially said could require several months for full recovery, with appearances in her traditional stronghold of Rapid City as well as the Arizona visit.Alice Stewart, a Republican strategist who advised Texas Sen. Ted Cruz's 2016 presidential campaign, played down the idea that a narrow Noem victory would hurt her down the road. More important, Stewart said, is whether Noem is showing leadership on issues such as the economy, crime, parental rights and education that are important to broad groups of voters.The grocery tax repeal was just such a move, along with a promise by Noem to expand parental leave opportunities.But Casey Murschel, 71, said she plans to vote for Smith. A former GOP state representative in the Sioux Falls area, Murschel said the riot at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, led her to leave the party and identify as an independent. She said she trusts Smith to focus on governing the state and to advocate for abortion rights.“Kristi has gone Hollywood,” she said. “She has basically turned her back on South Dakotans. We’re like props for her."