-Jimmie Lee Jenkins and Aoris Jennie Thomas

-Joseph Wayne Rednest and Jolene Katherine Picketpinn

-Victoriano Jacob Gomez and Kayla Renae Hatch

-Kyle Lee Coleman and Whisper Lynn Connor

-Gordon Anthony Montanez and Donna Sue Graham

-Dalton Michael Seybold and Celia Lizette Benton

-Fidel Jose Aguilar and Stefanie Rene Fritzchie

Marriages:&nbsp;-Jimmie Lee Jenkins and Aoris Jennie Thomas-Joseph Wayne Rednest and Jolene Katherine Picketpinn-Victoriano Jacob Gomez and Kayla Renae Hatch-Jeremy Lee Howard and Lola Mae Gillett-Kyle Lee Coleman and Whisper Lynn Connor-Gordon Anthony Montanez and Donna Sue Graham-Dalton Michael Seybold and Celia Lizette Benton-Fidel Jose Aguilar and Stefanie Rene FritzchieDivorces:-Leeann Vrbka and Seth Vrbka&nbsp;

Marriages, Divorces August 2023

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

The Scottsbluff Police Department issued a statement on Wednesday that they are investigating a rash of thefts from motor vehicles in Scottsbluff. 

Scottsbluff Police Department Operations Captain Lance L. Kite says the thefts have taken place generally in the Westmoor area of Scottsbluff in the late night and early morning hours.

Scottsbluff police wants to remind citizens to remove valuables from inside your vehicles and to lock car doors.

 Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious people to the Comm. Center at 308-632-7176 and if you have video of suspects, please contact Scottsbluff Police so they can collect the video.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Scottsbluff Police Department issued a statement on Wednesday that they are investigating a rash of thefts from motor vehicles in Scottsbluff. Scottsbluff Police Department Operations Captain Lance L. Kite says the thefts have taken place generally in the Westmoor area of Scottsbluff in the late night and early morning hours.Scottsbluff police wants to remind citizens to remove valuables from inside your vehicles and to lock car doors. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious people to the Comm. Center at 308-632-7176 and if you have video of suspects, please contact Scottsbluff Police so they can collect the video.

Scottsbluff Police investigating thefts in Westmoor area

By DANIELLA AKWANAMNYE, COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON - The Chadron State College Music department has scheduled events for the 2023-24 school year. All concerts and recitals are free and open to the public.

The first guest artist recital of the fall semester will be Sept. 18 at 6 p.m. featuring jazz artist Alicyn Yafee who will perform a concert in the Student Center’s Pit. Music Instructor Jeremy Quick will perform a guitar recital Oct. 22 at 5 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Black Box Theatre.

The Wind Symphony and Community Band will perform Nov. 3 at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Hall Auditorium. A Jazz concert is scheduled for Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.

A holiday concert will take place Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Hall Auditorium. The Guitar Ensemble will conclude the fall semester with a performance in the Student Center’s Pit Dec. 8 at 7 p.m.

The Spring 2024 semester will kick off with the High Plains Band and Choir Festival Feb. 6 at 5 p.m. in the Memorial Hall Auditorium.

The CSC Music faculty will perform a recital Feb 17 at 3 p.m. in the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium. Quick will perform a guitar recital March 17 at 5 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Black Box.

Outstanding students will perform in the Honors Recital March 24 at 3 p.m. in the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium. The Wind Symphony and Community Band will perform in the Memorial Hall Auditorium April 5 at 7 p.m. April 13, the CSC Concert Choir and Community Choir will perform at 3 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.

The CSC Jazz Ensemble will perform in the Memorial Hall Auditorium April 15 at 7 p.m. On April 26, the CSC Guitar Ensemble will perform at 7 p.m. in the Math Science COIL Planetarium.

The Spring semester will conclude with the performance of New Music by CSC and Chadron composers April 27 at 3 p.m. in the Sandoz Center’s Chicoine Atrium.

By DANIELLA AKWANAMNYE, COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON - The Chadron State College Music department has scheduled events for the 2023-24 school year. All concerts and recitals are free and open to the public.The first guest artist recital of the fall semester will be Sept. 18 at 6 p.m. featuring jazz artist Alicyn Yafee who will perform a concert in the Student Center’s Pit. Music Instructor Jeremy Quick will perform a guitar recital Oct. 22 at 5 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Black Box Theatre.The Wind Symphony and Community Band will perform Nov. 3 at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Hall Auditorium. A Jazz concert is scheduled for Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.A holiday concert will take place Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Hall Auditorium. The Guitar Ensemble will conclude the fall semester with a performance in the Student Center’s Pit Dec. 8 at 7 p.m.The Spring 2024 semester will kick off with the High Plains Band and Choir Festival Feb. 6 at 5 p.m. in the Memorial Hall Auditorium.The CSC Music faculty will perform a recital Feb 17 at 3 p.m. in the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium. Quick will perform a guitar recital March 17 at 5 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Black Box.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694107434545.jpeg" alt="The Chadron State College Community Symphonic Band performs under the direction of Dr. John Wojcik in the Memorial Hall Auditorium April 18, 2023. (Photo by Abigail Swanson/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>The Chadron State College Community Symphonic Band performs under the direction of Dr. John Wojcik in the Memorial Hall Auditorium April 18, 2023. (Photo by Abigail Swanson/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>Outstanding students will perform in the Honors Recital March 24 at 3 p.m. in the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium. The Wind Symphony and Community Band will perform in the Memorial Hall Auditorium April 5 at 7 p.m. April 13, the CSC Concert Choir and Community Choir will perform at 3 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.The CSC Jazz Ensemble will perform in the Memorial Hall Auditorium April 15 at 7 p.m. On April 26, the CSC Guitar Ensemble will perform at 7 p.m. in the Math Science COIL Planetarium.The Spring semester will conclude with the performance of New Music by CSC and Chadron composers April 27 at 3 p.m. in the Sandoz Center’s Chicoine Atrium.

CSC Music sets performance schedule for the academic year

Lincoln, Neb. —The Nebraska 4-H Foundation, in a special board meeting, has committed $2 million to the Nebraska Community Foundation as a match toward the development of a Sandhills Discovery Center. The available funding is a result of the insurance settlement from the Bovee fire which destroyed the 4-H camp at Halsey in the Sandhills last fall. The camp had long been a summer outdoor environmental education center and leadership camping experience for 4-Hers statewide and for use by other organizations.&nbsp;

The Nebraska 4-H Foundation is a separate entity from Nebraska 4-H that provides financial support to advanc thee work and mission of Nebraska 4-H.&nbsp;

Earlier this year Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte was instrumental in securing a $10 million appropriation from the State of Nebraska to initially fund a new vision for the camp. Access to this funding requires one-to-one matching funds. The appropriation will be used toward the Sandhills Discovery Center project, which is envisioned as a multiuse facility that would accommodate campers, educational opportunities and community events. Ultimately, the Sandhills Discovery Center would benefit 4-H programming statewide and economic development in the Sandhills area. The Nebraska 4-H Foundation’s gift is the first contribution toward that match solidifying its commitment to 4-Her’s across the state, to the community which supported the camp over its many years at Halsey and to the University of Nebraska Extension’s unwavering support of 4-H.&nbsp;

“The 4-H Foundation has committed this funding because we realize the importance of an educational center in the Sandhills area,” said Foundation President Roberta Pinkerton. “We were devastated by the loss of the facilities at Halsey but look forward to working with the community in a statewide effort to provide a future first-class educational opportunity for 4-Her’s and an economic driver for the wider community.”&nbsp;

The Nebraska Community Foundation has begun a feasibility study to determine the appropriate plan and additional funding sources for the project which will include the Discovery Center along with other retreat type facilities. It is expected to take three to five years in development and construction.&nbsp;

About the Nebraska 4-H Foundation&nbsp;

4-H empowers young people to lead for a lifetime. Nebraska 4-H serves 1-in-3 youth ages 8-18 in Nebraska and our programs in science agriculture, healthy living and civic engagement are backed by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as well as a robust community of 4-H volunteers and professionals.&nbsp;

Through hands-on learning, youth build not only confidence, creativity and curiosity, but also life skills such as leadership and resiliency to help them thrive today and tomorrow.&nbsp;

By Nebraska 4-H FoundationLincoln, Neb. —The Nebraska 4-H Foundation, in a special board meeting, has committed $2 million to the Nebraska Community Foundation as a match toward the development of a Sandhills Discovery Center. The available funding is a result of the insurance settlement from the Bovee fire which destroyed the 4-H camp at Halsey in the Sandhills last fall. The camp had long been a summer outdoor environmental education center and leadership camping experience for 4-Hers statewide and for use by other organizations.&nbsp;The Nebraska 4-H Foundation is a separate entity from Nebraska 4-H that provides financial support to advanc thee work and mission of Nebraska 4-H.&nbsp;Earlier this year Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte was instrumental in securing a $10 million appropriation from the State of Nebraska to initially fund a new vision for the camp. Access to this funding requires one-to-one matching funds. The appropriation will be used toward the Sandhills Discovery Center project, which is envisioned as a multiuse facility that would accommodate campers, educational opportunities and community events. Ultimately, the Sandhills Discovery Center would benefit 4-H programming statewide and economic development in the Sandhills area. The Nebraska 4-H Foundation’s gift is the first contribution toward that match solidifying its commitment to 4-Her’s across the state, to the community which supported the camp over its many years at Halsey and to the University of Nebraska Extension’s unwavering support of 4-H.&nbsp;“The 4-H Foundation has committed this funding because we realize the importance of an educational center in the Sandhills area,” said Foundation President Roberta Pinkerton. “We were devastated by the loss of the facilities at Halsey but look forward to working with the community in a statewide effort to provide a future first-class educational opportunity for 4-Her’s and an economic driver for the wider community.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694106460382.jpeg" alt="4-H Foundation" />
 <figcaption>4-H Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>The Nebraska Community Foundation has begun a feasibility study to determine the appropriate plan and additional funding sources for the project which will include the Discovery Center along with other retreat type facilities. It is expected to take three to five years in development and construction.&nbsp;About the Nebraska 4-H Foundation&nbsp;4-H empowers young people to lead for a lifetime. Nebraska 4-H serves 1-in-3 youth ages 8-18 in Nebraska and our programs in science agriculture, healthy living and civic engagement are backed by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as well as a robust community of 4-H volunteers and professionals.&nbsp;Through hands-on learning, youth build not only confidence, creativity and curiosity, but also life skills such as leadership and resiliency to help them thrive today and tomorrow.&nbsp;

4-H Foundation Commits $2 million to Sandhills Discovery Center

U.S Senator Pete Ricketts slammed the Biden Administration on Wednesday for failing to provide specific plans and funding requirements for increasing U.S Virginia-class submarine production as it works toward fulfilling terns for the Australia-United Kingdom-United States security partnership known as (AUKUS).

Ricketts is a member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and commented on the situation while questioning Dr. Mara Karlin during a Senate Commitee hearing on Wednesday.

"You keep saying you want to share the information, but I'm not getting any information here," Ricketts said. "Is there a study that says 'yeah, this is what we need to make AUKUS a success, how much it's going to cost. It's probably not going to be a small number."

Ricketts also asked if there will be a supplemental from the Biden Administration requesting more money to invest in the Submarine Industrial Base. Ricketts has said that he is a supporter of AUKUS and  explained in the hearing  how the AUKUS agreement will help counter the People’s Republic of China (PRC)’s aggression in the Indo-Pacific region.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostU.S Senator Pete Ricketts slammed the Biden Administration on Wednesday for failing to provide specific plans and funding requirements for increasing U.S Virginia-class submarine production as it works toward fulfilling terns for the Australia-United Kingdom-United States security partnership known as (AUKUS).Ricketts is a member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and commented on the situation while questioning Dr. Mara Karlin during a Senate Commitee hearing on Wednesday. "You keep saying you want to share the information, but I'm not getting any information here," Ricketts said. "Is there a study that says 'yeah, this is what we need to make AUKUS a success, how much it's going to cost. It's probably not going to be a small number."Ricketts also asked if there will be a supplemental from the Biden Administration requesting more money to invest in the Submarine Industrial Base. Ricketts has said that he is a supporter of AUKUS and explained in the hearing how the AUKUS agreement will help counter the People’s Republic of China (PRC)’s aggression in the Indo-Pacific region.

Slams Biden Admin for Failing to Disclose Submarine Production Plans: “Share the Information!”

Ogallala, Neb - The water is warm at Lake McConaughy north of Ogallala. The beaches are beautiful, and beginning September 11, reservation season is over for the year. All beach and campground camping will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Stop at the Visitors Center to pay camping fees or use the self-pay stations. See <a href="https://ilovelakemac.com/">www.ilovelakemac.com</a> for hotels, cabins, campgrounds, restaurants, events and more!

AVAILABLE BOAT RAMPS: Martin Bay Low Water (near the base of the dam) • Divers Bay/Burma Road • Lake Ogallala (2) (Lake Ogallala will close to the public for a month beginning Sept 22 for the planned renovation of the fishery.) 

Lake Mac elevation is 3,229.1 ft or 858,100ac-ft (49.2% capacity)

FISHING opportunities continue into fall as anglers slab for walleye and white bass.  Catfish can be caught year-round, especially at the west end of the lake.

Go beyond the beach at these upcoming KEITH COUNTY EVENTS:

Sept 14-16:  Ogallala Indian Summer Rendezvous

Sept 23:  Oktoberfest at Second Chapter Brewing, in Ogallala

<div><iframe title="(Audio) Lake McConaughy Area Outdoor Report for week of September 4th" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nby4a-149ce8d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Ogallala, Neb - The water is warm at Lake McConaughy north of Ogallala. The beaches are beautiful, and beginning September 11, reservation season is over for the year. All beach and campground camping will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Stop at the Visitors Center to pay camping fees or use the self-pay stations. See <a href="https://ilovelakemac.com/">www.ilovelakemac.com</a> for hotels, cabins, campgrounds, restaurants, events and more! <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694031340756.jpeg" alt="Lake McConaughey, north of Ogallala" />
 <figcaption>Lake McConaughey, north of Ogallala</figcaption>
 </figure>AVAILABLE BOAT RAMPS: Martin Bay Low Water (near the base of the dam) • Divers Bay/Burma Road • Lake Ogallala (2) (Lake Ogallala will close to the public for a month beginning Sept 22 for the planned renovation of the fishery.) Lake Mac elevation is 3,229.1 ft or 858,100ac-ft (49.2% capacity)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLakeMcConaughyNE%2Fposts%2Fpfbid024JzFahgL8wa34FBJshLJvZAED58he17kKycjsRQx4CDK4XMb3ATupM4KMBhoxLvDl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="756" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>FISHING opportunities continue into fall as anglers slab for walleye and white bass. Catfish can be caught year-round, especially at the west end of the lake.Go beyond the beach at these upcoming KEITH COUNTY EVENTS:Sept 14-16: Ogallala Indian Summer RendezvousSept 23: Oktoberfest at Second Chapter Brewing, in Ogallala

(Audio) Lake Mac Report - September 5, 2023

KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney recorded a 5.4% increase in first-time freshmen enrollment for fall 2023, bucking a national trend. In graduate student enrollment, UNK has a 1.2% increase.

The official enrollment data, reported at census (sixth day of the semester), shows a total enrollment of 6,017 – a slight decrease from 6,041 last year. First-time, full-time freshmen increased 6.1%, and first-time transfers increased one student over last year to 326.

The data indicates UNK students are taking more credit hours and are more likely to be full-time, with total student-credit-hour production increasing just under 1%. Full-time graduate students increased 11.7% over last year, with full-time undergraduates increasing 0.5% for a total increase in full-time students of 1.3%.

The largest undergraduate program of study among freshmen is health science, with nearly 23% of first-time freshmen (211) majoring in this area. That’s a 21% increase over last year, and reflects the growing success in undergraduate health science education at UNK. First-time freshmen increased 23% in the College of Business and Technology, including a 55% increase in industrial technology majors and a 10.3% increase in management majors. Total enrollment increased 5.7% in the College of Business and Technology.

Graduate students total 1,793, with the vast majority participating in online courses. Graduate enrollment increased 19.6% in on-campus students, and just under 1% in distance-only students. Graduate student numbers increased in speech-language pathology, by 31% (to 92), Master of Business Administration, by 22.7% (to 81), and educational administration, by 4.3% (to 145). Each of these programs recorded their highest enrollment ever.

Out-of-state and international student numbers remain strong, with 1,109 non-resident students. UNK students are from 46 states (none from Rhode Island, Hawaii, Vermont or Delaware), with non-resident students comprising 17.4% of the student population. The largest number of students from states outside Nebraska are Colorado (145), Kansas (111) and California (56). Students are from 62 countries – the largest number ever and an increase of 10 countries from last year. The countries with the highest numbers are Japan (112), Mexico (54), Nepal (19), China (17), South Korea (11) and India (10).

Students are from 91 Nebraska counties, with UNK recording the most students ever this fall from both Hall County (378) and Lancaster County (371). Demographic data indicates increases in student diversity. The number of students who are Hispanic increased to 759 – the largest ever – up 3%. First-time freshmen students who are Hispanic numbered 131 – also the highest number ever, and a 10% increase over fall 2022. The number of Hispanic students has increased 46.8% since 2013. UNK’s Black or African-American students number 138, which is tied for the largest number ever, and an increase of 15% over last year. UNK enrolled 252 non-resident alien students, a decrease of 5%.

The National Clearinghouse Student Research Center reports that nationwide, undergraduate enrollment in public four-year institutions has decreased four out of the last five years, with the Midwest region recording greater losses, attributed to demographic and economic changes. Enrollment stability has become an important performance indicator for institutions of higher education, said Kelly Bartling, UNK vice chancellor of enrollment management.

“The increase in first-time freshmen and graduate students represents an all-campus effort on recruitment and retention,” Bartling said. A five-point plan to increase undergraduate enrollment includes increasing the number and size of scholarships, an emphasis on student success and completion, expertise in first-generation and Hispanic student recruitment and success, being transfer-friendly, and focusing on career and internship development.

“What connects all of these efforts is a student experience focused on wellness and belonging,” Bartling said. “UNK has realigned staff and services to support students’ mental health, their connection to other students as well as faculty and staff, and the experience that UNK promises: Top-quality academic programs with people who care in a supportive environment where students can thrive.”

By University of Nebraska KearneyKEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney recorded a 5.4% increase in first-time freshmen enrollment for fall 2023, bucking a national trend. In graduate student enrollment, UNK has a 1.2% increase.The official enrollment data, reported at census (sixth day of the semester), shows a total enrollment of 6,017 – a slight decrease from 6,041 last year. First-time, full-time freshmen increased 6.1%, and first-time transfers increased one student over last year to 326.The data indicates UNK students are taking more credit hours and are more likely to be full-time, with total student-credit-hour production increasing just under 1%. Full-time graduate students increased 11.7% over last year, with full-time undergraduates increasing 0.5% for a total increase in full-time students of 1.3%.The largest undergraduate program of study among freshmen is health science, with nearly 23% of first-time freshmen (211) majoring in this area. That’s a 21% increase over last year, and reflects the growing success in undergraduate health science education at UNK. First-time freshmen increased 23% in the College of Business and Technology, including a 55% increase in industrial technology majors and a 10.3% increase in management majors. Total enrollment increased 5.7% in the College of Business and Technology.Graduate students total 1,793, with the vast majority participating in online courses. Graduate enrollment increased 19.6% in on-campus students, and just under 1% in distance-only students. Graduate student numbers increased in speech-language pathology, by 31% (to 92), Master of Business Administration, by 22.7% (to 81), and educational administration, by 4.3% (to 145). Each of these programs recorded their highest enrollment ever.Out-of-state and international student numbers remain strong, with 1,109 non-resident students. UNK students are from 46 states (none from Rhode Island, Hawaii, Vermont or Delaware), with non-resident students comprising 17.4% of the student population. The largest number of students from states outside Nebraska are Colorado (145), Kansas (111) and California (56). Students are from 62 countries – the largest number ever and an increase of 10 countries from last year. The countries with the highest numbers are Japan (112), Mexico (54), Nepal (19), China (17), South Korea (11) and India (10).Students are from 91 Nebraska counties, with UNK recording the most students ever this fall from both Hall County (378) and Lancaster County (371). Demographic data indicates increases in student diversity. The number of students who are Hispanic increased to 759 – the largest ever – up 3%. First-time freshmen students who are Hispanic numbered 131 – also the highest number ever, and a 10% increase over fall 2022. The number of Hispanic students has increased 46.8% since 2013. UNK’s Black or African-American students number 138, which is tied for the largest number ever, and an increase of 15% over last year. UNK enrolled 252 non-resident alien students, a decrease of 5%.The National Clearinghouse Student Research Center reports that nationwide, undergraduate enrollment in public four-year institutions has decreased four out of the last five years, with the Midwest region recording greater losses, attributed to demographic and economic changes. Enrollment stability has become an important performance indicator for institutions of higher education, said Kelly Bartling, UNK vice chancellor of enrollment management.“The increase in first-time freshmen and graduate students represents an all-campus effort on recruitment and retention,” Bartling said. A five-point plan to increase undergraduate enrollment includes increasing the number and size of scholarships, an emphasis on student success and completion, expertise in first-generation and Hispanic student recruitment and success, being transfer-friendly, and focusing on career and internship development.“What connects all of these efforts is a student experience focused on wellness and belonging,” Bartling said. “UNK has realigned staff and services to support students’ mental health, their connection to other students as well as faculty and staff, and the experience that UNK promises: Top-quality academic programs with people who care in a supportive environment where students can thrive.”

UNK increases enrollment for freshmen and grad students

The 15th annual Light of Hope Fundraiser event is in Gering on Thursday. The event's theme is "it takes a village," and will be from 5-7 p.m. at the Gering Civic Center.

The guest speaker will be Lori Rodriguez-Fletcher who will speak on the mental health of children today.

Free will donations will be accepted at the event.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe 15th annual Light of Hope Fundraiser event is in Gering on Thursday. The event's theme is "it takes a village," and will be from 5-7 p.m. at the Gering Civic Center.The guest speaker will be Lori Rodriguez-Fletcher who will speak on the mental health of children today.Free will donations will be accepted at the event.

Event on Mental Health of Children in Gering Thursday

&nbsp;By Scottsbluff Police Department

A Terrytown native was arrested on Tuesday night after striking a man at Short Stop on 2002 Ave I.&nbsp; Scottsbluff Police arrived on scene at 7:20 pm where they found a 1992 green Honda Goldwing lying on its side and a 2005 green Ford Freestyle parked on a gas pump. 

An investigation by Scottsbluff Police determined that the Ford Freestyle driven by 62-year Renee Mueller Fieck,  continued backing in a circle when she struck 49-year-old Brent Kreiling, a pedestrian from Terrytown who was standing next to the Honda Goldwing.

Kreiling was transported to Regional West Medical Center by Valley Ambulance for treatment of his injuries. Fieck was subsequently arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Disorderly Conduct, and No Operators License.

&nbsp;The Scottsbluff Police Department was assisted by The Scottsbluff Fire Department, Valley Ambulance, and the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office.

&nbsp;By Scottsbluff Police DepartmentA Terrytown native was arrested on Tuesday night after striking a man at Short Stop on 2002 Ave I.&nbsp; Scottsbluff Police arrived on scene at 7:20 pm where they found a 1992 green Honda Goldwing lying on its side and a 2005 green Ford Freestyle parked on a gas pump. An investigation by Scottsbluff Police determined that the Ford Freestyle driven by 62-year Renee Mueller Fieck, continued backing in a circle when she struck 49-year-old Brent Kreiling, a pedestrian from Terrytown who was standing next to the Honda Goldwing.Kreiling was transported to Regional West Medical Center by Valley Ambulance for treatment of his injuries. Fieck was subsequently arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Disorderly Conduct, and No Operators License.&nbsp;The Scottsbluff Police Department was assisted by The Scottsbluff Fire Department, Valley Ambulance, and the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office.

Terrytown native arrested for DUI after hitting pedestrian

By Patricia Jones Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Untreated tooth decay can lead to pain, infection, and problems with speaking, eating, working, and playing. Because it is important to teach children about dental hygiene and treat problems early, Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD) works with children throughout the Panhandle.

PPHD partners with Head Start centers, preschools, and school districts with their dental health program, currently providing preventive dental care in 31 elementary schools and 13 Head Start locations. PPHD does not have a clinic or dentist on staff, but they do have a dental hygienist, Kendra Kauruhn, and they work with pediatric dentists in the area. Kauruhn has a presentation, Keeping Teeth Strong, which is offered to classrooms every February. More importantly, Kauruhn offers dental treatments, and her work is done in the school setting.

To participate in the program and receive treatments, parents are required to sign a consent form. Services PPHD offers:

Each child screened is sent home with a form listing what services have been provided. The form indicates if there is a need for urgent or early dental care. If there is a problem, they'll need to see a dentist.

Head Start students are taught proper brushing techniques and practice brushing every day they are at school. Preschool students receive dental education only, not treatments.

Within Box Butte County, participating schools include Hemingford Public Schools and Alliance schools: Emerson, Grandview, Early Childhood, St. Agnes, Immanuel Lutheran, Head Start, and Migrant Head Start. PPHD will serve older students and home-schooled students on request by calling Kauruhn at PPHD, 308-633-2866 ext. 106. Schools are visited and treatments are given each semester.

Dental Days is another program coordinated by PPHD. Dentistry students and hygienists practice their skills in a supervised setting, and low-income children get much-needed dental care. Area dentists turn their offices over to the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, with visiting students and teachers providing services. The day serves school children age 3 through 21 who are uninsured or underinsured. There is no cost to families for dental work for their kids.

Dental Days usually happens in early summer, all day Friday and Saturday morning. In June, 2023, Dental Days was only held in Sidney and Gordon. Some of the pediatric dentists who teach or work with the College of Dentistry have retired or quit; therefore, PPHD was unable to offer the program in Alliance this year.

Why this focus on dental care for children? Oral problems such as cavities can impact a child's ability to learn. Children in low-income families who don't have access to dental care miss three times as many school days due to oral health problems. These children often have decreased appetite, depression, and are unable to focus attention – all of which can lead to a risk of lower school attendance and learning.

Regular preventive dental care can lessen the health risks these children will face as adults, including heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications. Good dental care can also help improve self-esteem because healthy teeth and gums are important to our feelings about ourselves. Preventive dental health care is vital and needs to be offered at an early age.

By Patricia Jones Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity Untreated tooth decay can lead to pain, infection, and problems with speaking, eating, working, and playing. Because it is important to teach children about dental hygiene and treat problems early, Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD) works with children throughout the Panhandle. PPHD partners with Head Start centers, preschools, and school districts with their dental health program, currently providing preventive dental care in 31 elementary schools and 13 Head Start locations. PPHD does not have a clinic or dentist on staff, but they do have a dental hygienist, Kendra Kauruhn, and they work with pediatric dentists in the area. Kauruhn has a presentation, Keeping Teeth Strong, which is offered to classrooms every February. More importantly, Kauruhn offers dental treatments, and her work is done in the school setting.To participate in the program and receive treatments, parents are required to sign a consent form. Services PPHD offers:· Screenings· Fluoride varnish treatments· Dental sealants· Dental health education· Referrals to dentistsEach child screened is sent home with a form listing what services have been provided. The form indicates if there is a need for urgent or early dental care. If there is a problem, they'll need to see a dentist.Head Start students are taught proper brushing techniques and practice brushing every day they are at school. Preschool students receive dental education only, not treatments.Within Box Butte County, participating schools include Hemingford Public Schools and Alliance schools: Emerson, Grandview, Early Childhood, St. Agnes, Immanuel Lutheran, Head Start, and Migrant Head Start. PPHD will serve older students and home-schooled students on request by calling Kauruhn at PPHD, 308-633-2866 ext. 106. Schools are visited and treatments are given each semester.Dental Days is another program coordinated by PPHD. Dentistry students and hygienists practice their skills in a supervised setting, and low-income children get much-needed dental care. Area dentists turn their offices over to the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, with visiting students and teachers providing services. The day serves school children age 3 through 21 who are uninsured or underinsured. There is no cost to families for dental work for their kids.Dental Days usually happens in early summer, all day Friday and Saturday morning. In June, 2023, Dental Days was only held in Sidney and Gordon. Some of the pediatric dentists who teach or work with the College of Dentistry have retired or quit; therefore, PPHD was unable to offer the program in Alliance this year.Why this focus on dental care for children? Oral problems such as cavities can impact a child's ability to learn. Children in low-income families who don't have access to dental care miss three times as many school days due to oral health problems. These children often have decreased appetite, depression, and are unable to focus attention – all of which can lead to a risk of lower school attendance and learning.Regular preventive dental care can lessen the health risks these children will face as adults, including heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications. Good dental care can also help improve self-esteem because healthy teeth and gums are important to our feelings about ourselves. Preventive dental health care is vital and needs to be offered at an early age.

Getting ahead: PPHD keeps Children's teeth healthy 

Alliance, NE- The Box Butte Health Foundation (BBHF) raised $32,903 during its annual Golf Classic, which took place on Saturday, July 29.

The money raised by the golf tournament will be used to purchase a Verathon Prime Plus Scanner and Stand, a Hearing Booth, a Spirit CRS 800 Recumbent Stepper, and an ID NOW Machine for Box Butte General Hospital.

The Verathon Prime Plus Scanner will be used in the Emergency Department as well as the Patient Care Unit to help providers and staff in diagnosing and treating a patient’s urological complaints. Currently, the ED and PCU share a scanner, which can sometimes lead to one department having to wait for the scanner while it is being used. Having a second scanner will allow both departments to treat patients faster.

Greater Nebraska Medical and Surgical Services (GNMSS) will be receiving the Hearing Booth, which will be replacing the machine currently being used. The clinic will use the hearing booth for hearing tests done for BNSF and other individuals who need tested.

The Spirit CRS 800 Recumbent Stepper will go to Rehab to be used for working with patients post-surgery as well as those that have general weakness or decreased activity tolerance. The stepper is designed to be used for patients as a warm up and to improve overall strength and mobility. Finally, the ID NOW machine will be used in the lab to analyze tests for Flu A/B, Rapid Strep, COVID-19, and RSV.

“The Foundation is grateful to all of the volunteers, golfers and the many businesses who make the tournament a successful event!” Chelsea Thompson, Foundation Director, said. “Although we come together to raise funds, it’s not just about the money. We want people to look forward to a fun event that has a little bit of a different flair, and I think it shows when we have so many of our sponsors and golfers return year-after-year. The Foundation wouldn’t be able to give back to the great people in Box Butte County and beyond without the support of everyone involved.”

BBHF would like to thank its sponsors: Red Beard Garage and Towing; Inspire; WESTCO; Dan and Tracy Griess; Holmes Murphy; Trane, Walter Mischnick Contractors; Shelmadine Print Shop; Platte Valley Bank; First National Bank of Omaha; Wolf Auto; Beckenhauer Construction; Runza; Baird Holm; Dr. Dan Williams; Jackson Physician Search; Troy Schnell; Munoz Construction; Denver Air Connection; Mike and Joni Sautter; RTG Medical; Dohman, Akerlund &amp; Eddy, LLC; Dave and Cindy Sautter; Nebraska Bank; P.A.W.S.; Buffs Anesthesia; Bill and Lori Mazanec; Assured Partners; Bryan Telemedicine and Teledigm Health; Psychiatric Medical Care; Specialized

Engineering Services; Todd’s Body &amp; Frame Shop; WNCC; Bruce Furniture; MediWaste; and Aetna.

BBHF would also like to thank its donors: Flyover Brewery; Live Beauty and Boutique; Carter’s Home, Hardware and Appliances; Nebraska Hospital Association; Snap-on; Table Top Meats; A Heads Up Salon; Webb Eyecare; High Plains Hippies Windows; The Board Babe; Bloedorn Lumber; Tim Garwood; Rapid City Rush; Western Nebraska Pioneers Baseball; Highway 2 Threads; Shelmadine Print Shop; and Safeway.

By Box Butte General HospitalAlliance, NE- The Box Butte Health Foundation (BBHF) raised $32,903 during its annual Golf Classic, which took place on Saturday, July 29.The money raised by the golf tournament will be used to purchase a Verathon Prime Plus Scanner and Stand, a Hearing Booth, a Spirit CRS 800 Recumbent Stepper, and an ID NOW Machine for Box Butte General Hospital.The Verathon Prime Plus Scanner will be used in the Emergency Department as well as the Patient Care Unit to help providers and staff in diagnosing and treating a patient’s urological complaints. Currently, the ED and PCU share a scanner, which can sometimes lead to one department having to wait for the scanner while it is being used. Having a second scanner will allow both departments to treat patients faster.Greater Nebraska Medical and Surgical Services (GNMSS) will be receiving the Hearing Booth, which will be replacing the machine currently being used. The clinic will use the hearing booth for hearing tests done for BNSF and other individuals who need tested.The Spirit CRS 800 Recumbent Stepper will go to Rehab to be used for working with patients post-surgery as well as those that have general weakness or decreased activity tolerance. The stepper is designed to be used for patients as a warm up and to improve overall strength and mobility. Finally, the ID NOW machine will be used in the lab to analyze tests for Flu A/B, Rapid Strep, COVID-19, and RSV.“The Foundation is grateful to all of the volunteers, golfers and the many businesses who make the tournament a successful event!” Chelsea Thompson, Foundation Director, said. “Although we come together to raise funds, it’s not just about the money. We want people to look forward to a fun event that has a little bit of a different flair, and I think it shows when we have so many of our sponsors and golfers return year-after-year. The Foundation wouldn’t be able to give back to the great people in Box Butte County and beyond without the support of everyone involved.”BBHF would like to thank its sponsors: Red Beard Garage and Towing; Inspire; WESTCO; Dan and Tracy Griess; Holmes Murphy; Trane, Walter Mischnick Contractors; Shelmadine Print Shop; Platte Valley Bank; First National Bank of Omaha; Wolf Auto; Beckenhauer Construction; Runza; Baird Holm; Dr. Dan Williams; Jackson Physician Search; Troy Schnell; Munoz Construction; Denver Air Connection; Mike and Joni Sautter; RTG Medical; Dohman, Akerlund &amp; Eddy, LLC; Dave and Cindy Sautter; Nebraska Bank; P.A.W.S.; Buffs Anesthesia; Bill and Lori Mazanec; Assured Partners; Bryan Telemedicine and Teledigm Health; Psychiatric Medical Care; SpecializedEngineering Services; Todd’s Body &amp; Frame Shop; WNCC; Bruce Furniture; MediWaste; and Aetna.BBHF would also like to thank its donors: Flyover Brewery; Live Beauty and Boutique; Carter’s Home, Hardware and Appliances; Nebraska Hospital Association; Snap-on; Table Top Meats; A Heads Up Salon; Webb Eyecare; High Plains Hippies Windows; The Board Babe; Bloedorn Lumber; Tim Garwood; Rapid City Rush; Western Nebraska Pioneers Baseball; Highway 2 Threads; Shelmadine Print Shop; and Safeway.

BBHF raises $32K with annual Golf Classic

LINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp; —&nbsp;The field in the second annual “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska” tournament has narrowed to eight round one garnered more than 30,000 votes from across the state. Making the top eight is the Geothermal Greenhouse by Greenhouse in the Snow-Antioch Machine Shop.

Public voting for the top eight products in the bracket-style competition will be held Tuesday, September 5, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, September 10. Manufacturers, students and all Nebraskans are invited to vote for their favorite product manufactured in Nebraska each week through the month of September at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nemanufacturingalliance.com/top-8-voting-2023.html" target="_blank">nemanufacturingalliance.com</a>.&nbsp;Each voter is permitted one vote per matchup, per round.

The following Nebraska manufacturers and their products are among the top eight contenders.

The&nbsp;contest, hosted by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nemanufacturingalliance.com/" target="_blank">NE Manufacturing Alliance</a>&nbsp;and powered by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nechamber.com/" target="_blank">NE Chamber</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/?locale=en" target="_blank">Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD</a>)&nbsp;– together with your local public power utility, celebrates the state’s thriving manufacturing industry with Nebraska residents, students, educators, community leaders, manufacturers and especially, the more than 100,000 Nebraska makers working in manufacturing every day.

The tournament leads Nebraskans into the annual celebration of NE Manufacturing Month this October. The champion will be announced October 10 at the&nbsp;<a href="https://web.nechamber.com/events/2023NE%20Chamber%20Manufacturing%20Summit-527/details" target="_blank">NE Chamber’s Manufacturing Summit</a>&nbsp;in La Vista, where the top 16 finalists are invited to display their products.

NE Manufacturing AllianceLINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp; —&nbsp;The field in the second annual “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska” tournament has narrowed to eight round one garnered more than 30,000 votes from across the state. Making the top eight is the Geothermal Greenhouse by Greenhouse in the Snow-Antioch Machine Shop.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693944558804.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Public voting for the top eight products in the bracket-style competition will be held Tuesday, September 5, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, September 10. Manufacturers, students and all Nebraskans are invited to vote for their favorite product manufactured in Nebraska each week through the month of September at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nemanufacturingalliance.com/top-8-voting-2023.html" target="_blank">nemanufacturingalliance.com</a>.&nbsp;Each voter is permitted one vote per matchup, per round.The following Nebraska manufacturers and their products are among the top eight contenders.<ul>
 <li>Chocolate Meltaways, Bakers Candies, Greenwood</li><li>Endicott Invisi-Lug Clay Paver,&nbsp;Endicott Clay Products Company, Endicott</li><li>Fire Truck,&nbsp;Danko Emergency Equipment, Snyder</li><li>Flyover Whiskey, Flyover Whiskey, West Point</li><li>Geothermal Greenhouse,&nbsp;Greenhouse in the Snow-Antioch Machine Shop, Alliance</li><li>Ignis,&nbsp;Drone Amplifed, Lincoln</li><li>Ram Air Turbine (RAT) Hub, Collins Aerospace, York</li><li>Rocket Mobility All-Terrain Tracked Wheelchair, Rocket Mobility, Columbus</li>
 </ul>The&nbsp;contest, hosted by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nemanufacturingalliance.com/" target="_blank">NE Manufacturing Alliance</a>&nbsp;and powered by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nechamber.com/" target="_blank">NE Chamber</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/?locale=en" target="_blank">Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD</a>)&nbsp;– together with your local public power utility, celebrates the state’s thriving manufacturing industry with Nebraska residents, students, educators, community leaders, manufacturers and especially, the more than 100,000 Nebraska makers working in manufacturing every day.The tournament leads Nebraskans into the annual celebration of NE Manufacturing Month this October. The champion will be announced October 10 at the&nbsp;<a href="https://web.nechamber.com/events/2023NE%20Chamber%20Manufacturing%20Summit-527/details" target="_blank">NE Chamber’s Manufacturing Summit</a>&nbsp;in La Vista, where the top 16 finalists are invited to display their products.

Greenhouse in the Snow Alliance advances in ‘Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska’ contest

HOT SPRINGS, SD – Rangers at Wind Cave National Park will be leading programs mid-September through early October to listen for the bugle of the Rocky Mountain elk. The elk’s high-pitched whistle heralds the arrival of fall and the elk’s mating season.&nbsp;

Beginning Wednesday, September 13, rangers are giving brief interpretive programs about elk before leading a caravan to a nearby pullout to listen for them. These one-hour programs are offered Monday, Wednesday and Saturday evenings through Saturday, October 7. Participants meet at the Wind Cave Visitor Center front lawn at 7 p.m. and are encouraged to bring a flashlight, a camp chair or blanket to sit on, and to dress warmly. &nbsp;

To listen to an elk’s bugling call, visit the park’s website at https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/elk-bugling-wica.htm.&nbsp;

The park visitor center will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. until September 30, 4:30 p.m. after that. Cave tours are on hold pending repairs to the cave’s elevators. Tours are expected to resume in mid-October.&nbsp;The park store, run by the Black Hills Parks and Forests Association, a non-profit partner supporting park education efforts, is open with a variety of products for sale.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fall is a great time to explore the park either by driving park roads or hiking some of its 30 miles of trails.&nbsp;&nbsp;A great family activity is hiking to the park’s highest point, Rankin Ridge, a one-hour, one mile hike with views extending to the Badlands on a clear day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information, call the park at (605) 745-4600.&nbsp;

By Wind Cave National ParkHOT SPRINGS, SD – Rangers at Wind Cave National Park will be leading programs mid-September through early October to listen for the bugle of the Rocky Mountain elk. The elk’s high-pitched whistle heralds the arrival of fall and the elk’s mating season.&nbsp;Beginning Wednesday, September 13, rangers are giving brief interpretive programs about elk before leading a caravan to a nearby pullout to listen for them. These one-hour programs are offered Monday, Wednesday and Saturday evenings through Saturday, October 7. Participants meet at the Wind Cave Visitor Center front lawn at 7 p.m. and are encouraged to bring a flashlight, a camp chair or blanket to sit on, and to dress warmly. &nbsp;To listen to an elk’s bugling call, visit the park’s website at https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/elk-bugling-wica.htm.&nbsp;The park visitor center will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. until September 30, 4:30 p.m. after that. Cave tours are on hold pending repairs to the cave’s elevators. Tours are expected to resume in mid-October.&nbsp;The park store, run by the Black Hills Parks and Forests Association, a non-profit partner supporting park education efforts, is open with a variety of products for sale.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fall is a great time to explore the park either by driving park roads or hiking some of its 30 miles of trails.&nbsp;&nbsp;A great family activity is hiking to the park’s highest point, Rankin Ridge, a one-hour, one mile hike with views extending to the Badlands on a clear day.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, call the park at (605) 745-4600.&nbsp;

Elk bugling programs offered this fall at Wind Cave National Park 

By Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

The kids may be back in school, but Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is offering one more month of fun “summer” events. A Landscape Astrophotography class will be on Saturday, September 9th&nbsp;from 7-11pm. The park will host a Trail Clean-Up on Monday, September 11th&nbsp;from 9am-12pm. Finally, South Dakota School of Mines Paleontology Lab Manager, Sam Wright, will present “Vertebrate Fossil Preparation: Tools and Techniques” on Saturday, September 23rd&nbsp;at 1pm. &nbsp;

First up,&nbsp;Agate Fossil Beds National Monument invites stargazing enthusiasts and photography aficionados to learn how to capture their own social likes-worthy Milky Way and starscape photos with "Landscape Astrophotography 101." &nbsp;

The event kicks off on Saturday, September 9th, at 7 p.m. with an informative indoor seminar held in the Agate Fossil Beds visitor center. During this session, participants will gain valuable insights into camera settings, composition techniques, and post-processing tips that are essential for creating stunning astrophotography.&nbsp;

Following the seminar, at 8:30 p.m., attendees will venture outside to apply their newfound knowledge in a hands-on workshop until 11pm. Using their own DSLR or Mirrorless cameras (with manual mode), sturdy tripods, and red headlamps, participants will have the opportunity to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the Milky Way with the iconic Lakota tipis as a foreground element.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please be sure to attend the 7 p.m. workshop in order to get the most out of the hands-on portion.&nbsp;

"Landscape astrophotography is an incredibly fun and rewarding hobby," National Park Service volunteer and astrophotography enthusiast Jason Gray says. "It allows you to blend the beauty of the night sky with the history and natural beauty of our home planet in interesting ways."&nbsp;

Two days later on Monday, September 11th, park rangers will host a trail clean-up on the popular one-mile Daeomonelix Trail. Tasks include: weeding along the trail borders, fixing water channels along eroded parts of the trail, and covering bare spots of the trail with new gravel. Equipment and tools will be provided. However, volunteers are welcome to bring their own gloves, if preferred. Volunteers are also encouraged to check the weather ahead of time. September weather is unpredictable and volunteers should dress accordingly. &nbsp;

As a thank you to our volunteers, Ranger Ember will provide a special geology program along the trail at 11am. “I love sharing how clearly you can see the contacts between different geologic formations,” says Ember. “There are really interesting different paleoenvironments on this trail in which rocks were formed.”&nbsp;

Please register ahead of time for the trail clean-up. Volunteers can call Ranger Tera Lynn at (308) 436-9768 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:teralynn_gray@nps.gov">teralynn_gray@nps.gov</a>&nbsp;to reserve their space.&nbsp;

Finally, Agate Fossil Beds will wrap up the 4th&nbsp;Saturday Summer Speaker Series with a paleontology program from Sam Wright on Saturday, September 23rd&nbsp;at 1pm. She will discuss and demonstrate the tools and techniques used in vertebrate fossil preparation. This will be an inside look at a fantastic paleontological career of a fossil preparator.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sam Wright is the Fossil Preparator and Lab Manager at the Museum of Geology which is part of the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. Her educational background includes a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and a master's degree from East Tennessee State University. She obtained previous preparation experience from fossil preparation labs located at Ashfall Fossil Beds, University of Nebraska State Museum and the Gray Fossil Site.&nbsp;

Following Sam’s presentation on September 23rd, Ranger Amelia will provide a guided tour of the Cook Collection. She will focus on the artifacts that highlight Lakota women’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We hope you can join us at Agate Fossil Beds in September! ASL interpreters and/or audio description is available upon request for all the programs. For more information, please contact the park at (308) 665-4113 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:agfo_ranger_activities@nps.gov">agfo_ranger_activities@nps.gov</a>. &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;

By Agate Fossil Beds National MonumentThe kids may be back in school, but Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is offering one more month of fun “summer” events. A Landscape Astrophotography class will be on Saturday, September 9th&nbsp;from 7-11pm. The park will host a Trail Clean-Up on Monday, September 11th&nbsp;from 9am-12pm. Finally, South Dakota School of Mines Paleontology Lab Manager, Sam Wright, will present “Vertebrate Fossil Preparation: Tools and Techniques” on Saturday, September 23rd&nbsp;at 1pm. &nbsp;First up,&nbsp;Agate Fossil Beds National Monument invites stargazing enthusiasts and photography aficionados to learn how to capture their own social likes-worthy Milky Way and starscape photos with "Landscape Astrophotography 101." &nbsp;The event kicks off on Saturday, September 9th, at 7 p.m. with an informative indoor seminar held in the Agate Fossil Beds visitor center. During this session, participants will gain valuable insights into camera settings, composition techniques, and post-processing tips that are essential for creating stunning astrophotography.&nbsp;Following the seminar, at 8:30 p.m., attendees will venture outside to apply their newfound knowledge in a hands-on workshop until 11pm. Using their own DSLR or Mirrorless cameras (with manual mode), sturdy tripods, and red headlamps, participants will have the opportunity to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the Milky Way with the iconic Lakota tipis as a foreground element.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please be sure to attend the 7 p.m. workshop in order to get the most out of the hands-on portion.&nbsp;"Landscape astrophotography is an incredibly fun and rewarding hobby," National Park Service volunteer and astrophotography enthusiast Jason Gray says. "It allows you to blend the beauty of the night sky with the history and natural beauty of our home planet in interesting ways."&nbsp;Two days later on Monday, September 11th, park rangers will host a trail clean-up on the popular one-mile Daeomonelix Trail. Tasks include: weeding along the trail borders, fixing water channels along eroded parts of the trail, and covering bare spots of the trail with new gravel. Equipment and tools will be provided. However, volunteers are welcome to bring their own gloves, if preferred. Volunteers are also encouraged to check the weather ahead of time. September weather is unpredictable and volunteers should dress accordingly. &nbsp;As a thank you to our volunteers, Ranger Ember will provide a special geology program along the trail at 11am. “I love sharing how clearly you can see the contacts between different geologic formations,” says Ember. “There are really interesting different paleoenvironments on this trail in which rocks were formed.”&nbsp;Please register ahead of time for the trail clean-up. Volunteers can call Ranger Tera Lynn at (308) 436-9768 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:teralynn_gray@nps.gov">teralynn_gray@nps.gov</a>&nbsp;to reserve their space.&nbsp;Finally, Agate Fossil Beds will wrap up the 4th&nbsp;Saturday Summer Speaker Series with a paleontology program from Sam Wright on Saturday, September 23rd&nbsp;at 1pm. She will discuss and demonstrate the tools and techniques used in vertebrate fossil preparation. This will be an inside look at a fantastic paleontological career of a fossil preparator.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sam Wright is the Fossil Preparator and Lab Manager at the Museum of Geology which is part of the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. Her educational background includes a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and a master's degree from East Tennessee State University. She obtained previous preparation experience from fossil preparation labs located at Ashfall Fossil Beds, University of Nebraska State Museum and the Gray Fossil Site.&nbsp;Following Sam’s presentation on September 23rd, Ranger Amelia will provide a guided tour of the Cook Collection. She will focus on the artifacts that highlight Lakota women’s history.&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope you can join us at Agate Fossil Beds in September! ASL interpreters and/or audio description is available upon request for all the programs. For more information, please contact the park at (308) 665-4113 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:agfo_ranger_activities@nps.gov">agfo_ranger_activities@nps.gov</a>. &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;

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument announces September programming

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

Drought conditions have improved in Nebraska since earlier in the year, with reports of parts of the state in exceptional drought.

 A new four-year study called Rural Confluence, involves the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Oklahoma State University and Louisiana State University, aims to work with rural communities increase their resilience against climate impacts. UNL Professor Mary Emery directs UNL’s Rural Prosperity Nebraska and says they’re taking a bit of a different approach by seeking input from community members first.

"There's a lot of resistance sometimes when people from outside say, 'oh, we did all of this research and this is what you should do," Emery said. " People will say, you don't know our community, you don't know if that will work or not."

 The study is founded by the National Science Foundation and water is a major focus of the study and what challenges each community has and how to be better prepared to handle those challenges. UNLL will choose two communities in the Nebraska with different identities such as tourism, agriculture.

Nebraska Public News Service contributed to this story.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post Drought conditions have improved in Nebraska since earlier in the year, with reports of parts of the state in exceptional drought. A new four-year study called Rural Confluence, involves the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Oklahoma State University and Louisiana State University, aims to work with rural communities increase their resilience against climate impacts. UNL Professor Mary Emery directs UNL’s Rural Prosperity Nebraska and says they’re taking a bit of a different approach by seeking input from community members first."There's a lot of resistance sometimes when people from outside say, 'oh, we did all of this research and this is what you should do," Emery said. " People will say, you don't know our community, you don't know if that will work or not." The study is founded by the National Science Foundation and water is a major focus of the study and what challenges each community has and how to be better prepared to handle those challenges. UNLL will choose two communities in the Nebraska with different identities such as tourism, agriculture.Nebraska Public News Service contributed to this story.

UNL joins two other universities in study of rural communities

&nbsp;(LINCOLN, NE) The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, and Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy have issued a smoke advisory for western Nebraska.

Issued for:&nbsp; Tuesday, Sept. 5, through Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023

Air Quality Index:&nbsp;Moderate to Unhealthy Air Quality Index (AQI)

Potential Air Quality Impacts&nbsp;from Wildfires

Smoke associated with&nbsp;Canadian wildfires&nbsp;may affect the air quality in Nebraska.

An advisory of possible&nbsp;Moderate to Unhealthy&nbsp;(yellow, orange, and red) Air Quality Index (AQI) may occur in western Nebraska, potentially affecting the cities of Alliance, Chadron, Gering, Hyannis, Kimball, Ogallala, Sidney and surrounding areas from Tuesday, Sept. 5, through Wednesday evening, Sept. 6, 2023.&nbsp;

During Moderate AQI (yellow category) conditions, those who are unusually sensitive to particle pollution may experience health effects. When conditions rise to the yellow category, those who are unusually sensitive are advised to consider shortening outdoor activities and reducing the intensity of these activities. Symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath are signs to take it easier.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups AQI (orange)

During Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups AQI (orange category) conditions, members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. Sensitive groups include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children. When conditions rise to the orange category, sensitive groups are advised to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion and avoid intense outdoor activities. Everyone else can remain active and adjust activity duration and intensity as needed.

During Unhealthy AQI (red category) conditions, some members of the general public may experience health effects and members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. Sensitive groups include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children. When conditions rise to the red category, everyone is advised to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion and those in sensitive groups should consider moving activities indoors or rescheduling.

Advisories are issued for areas of anticipated impact by notifying the media and local health departments, and posting information on the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy's (NDEE) webpages and social media sites. These advisories provide information to the public on the anticipated impacts and air quality and health resources to help citizens protect their health and minimize exposure to smoke.

States monitor smoke levels and weather conditions to determine when impacts to air quality are anticipated. Advisories are based on data from the National Weather Service (NWS), smoke plume modeling, and from ambient air quality monitors located in Omaha, Bellevue, Blair, Lincoln, Beatrice, Grand Island, and Scottsbluff.

The following Air Quality Index (AQI) is used. This AQI is used nationally and is available in real-time for Nebraska by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airnow.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.airnow.gov&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp;

For more information on smoke awareness, visit NDEE's website at&nbsp;<a href="http://dee.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/OnWeb/AirSA" target="_blank">http://dee.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/OnWeb/AirSA&nbsp;</a>

For more information on Wildfires, visit NDEE's website at&nbsp;<a href="http://dee.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/OnWeb/airSA-3" target="_blank">http://dee.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/OnWeb/airSA-3&nbsp;</a>

&nbsp;(LINCOLN, NE) The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, and Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy have issued a smoke advisory for western Nebraska.Issued for:&nbsp; Tuesday, Sept. 5, through Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023Affected Area:&nbsp;Western NebraskaAir Quality Index:&nbsp;Moderate to Unhealthy Air Quality Index (AQI)Potential Air Quality Impacts&nbsp;from WildfiresSmoke associated with&nbsp;Canadian wildfires&nbsp;may affect the air quality in Nebraska.An advisory of possible&nbsp;Moderate to Unhealthy&nbsp;(yellow, orange, and red) Air Quality Index (AQI) may occur in western Nebraska, potentially affecting the cities of Alliance, Chadron, Gering, Hyannis, Kimball, Ogallala, Sidney and surrounding areas from Tuesday, Sept. 5, through Wednesday evening, Sept. 6, 2023.&nbsp;Moderate AQI (yellow)During Moderate AQI (yellow category) conditions, those who are unusually sensitive to particle pollution may experience health effects. When conditions rise to the yellow category, those who are unusually sensitive are advised to consider shortening outdoor activities and reducing the intensity of these activities. Symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath are signs to take it easier.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups AQI (orange)During Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups AQI (orange category) conditions, members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. Sensitive groups include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children. When conditions rise to the orange category, sensitive groups are advised to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion and avoid intense outdoor activities. Everyone else can remain active and adjust activity duration and intensity as needed.Unhealthy AQI (red)During Unhealthy AQI (red category) conditions, some members of the general public may experience health effects and members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. Sensitive groups include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children. When conditions rise to the red category, everyone is advised to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion and those in sensitive groups should consider moving activities indoors or rescheduling.Advisories are issued for areas of anticipated impact by notifying the media and local health departments, and posting information on the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy's (NDEE) webpages and social media sites. These advisories provide information to the public on the anticipated impacts and air quality and health resources to help citizens protect their health and minimize exposure to smoke.States monitor smoke levels and weather conditions to determine when impacts to air quality are anticipated. Advisories are based on data from the National Weather Service (NWS), smoke plume modeling, and from ambient air quality monitors located in Omaha, Bellevue, Blair, Lincoln, Beatrice, Grand Island, and Scottsbluff.The following Air Quality Index (AQI) is used. This AQI is used nationally and is available in real-time for Nebraska by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airnow.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.airnow.gov&nbsp;</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693944890037.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For more information on smoke awareness, visit NDEE's website at&nbsp;<a href="http://dee.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/OnWeb/AirSA" target="_blank">http://dee.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/OnWeb/AirSA&nbsp;</a>For more information on Wildfires, visit NDEE's website at&nbsp;<a href="http://dee.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/OnWeb/airSA-3" target="_blank">http://dee.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/OnWeb/airSA-3&nbsp;</a>

Smoke Advisory Issued For Western Nebraska

For the 16th straight year, the Mission Store Inc. in Alliance is offering Mini-Grants for all organized, not for profits groups of Box Butte County. The program started on Sept. 1. and runs to Oct. 15.

Funds must be used for projects to benefit the whole organization and all applicants must include the following in their proposals:

-Name and description of program or event that they are requesting funding for. -Explanation how grant funds will be used. - Description of target audience. -The Program goals and expected outcome. -A statement that explains how the funds will assist in making the program into a reality.

The Mission Mini-Grant Program has given back a total $65,000 to the community in 2022, and applications can be picked up at the Mission Store during store hours 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday, or by mail to the Alliance Mission Store, PO Box 179, Alliance NE 69301.&nbsp;

They must be postmarked on or before October 15.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostFor the 16th straight year, the Mission Store Inc. in Alliance is offering Mini-Grants for all organized, not for profits groups of Box Butte County. The program started on Sept. 1. and runs to Oct. 15.Funds must be used for projects to benefit the whole organization and all applicants must include the following in their proposals:-Name and description of program or event that they are requesting funding for. -Explanation how grant funds will be used. - Description of target audience. -The Program goals and expected outcome. -A statement that explains how the funds will assist in making the program into a reality.The Mission Mini-Grant Program has given back a total $65,000 to the community in 2022, and applications can be picked up at the Mission Store during store hours 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday, or by mail to the Alliance Mission Store, PO Box 179, Alliance NE 69301.&nbsp;They must be postmarked on or before October 15.

Alliance Mission Store offering Mini-Grants for 2023

The Box Butte County Commissioners are holding a meeting Wednesday where they are expected to accept the resignation of Box Butte County Public Defender Enet-Somers-Dehaney.

This comes after a Recall Petition against her was filed on August 23. by Alliance resident Brent Hansen.

  Somers-Dehaney submitted her letter of resignation as Public Defender to the Box Butte County Clerk on Tuesday, and it is expected to be effective immediately on Wednesday.

The Box Butte County Commissioners will convene in a meeting open to the public on Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. at the Box Butte County Courthouse.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693236271706.jpeg" alt="Box Butte County public defender" />
 <figcaption>Box Butte County public defender</figcaption>
 </figure>The Box Butte County Commissioners are holding a meeting Wednesday where they are expected to accept the resignation of Box Butte County Public Defender Enet-Somers-Dehaney.This comes after a Recall Petition against her was filed on August 23. by Alliance resident Brent Hansen. Somers-Dehaney submitted her letter of resignation as Public Defender to the Box Butte County Clerk on Tuesday, and it is expected to be effective immediately on Wednesday.The Box Butte County Commissioners will convene in a meeting open to the public on Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. at the Box Butte County Courthouse.

Somers-Dehaney resigns as Box Butte County Public Defender

By John E. Weare Keep Alliance Beautiful

Over the noon hour one day this summer I was manning the shop as the rest of our crew was out on a cardboard run. Dr. Troy Unzicker, Alliance Public Schools superintendent, pulled up to the south door at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center and handed me a couple large black bags from Sweet Pickin’s, his family’s new business downtown.

I had been to the nutrition/variety shop since it opened May 8, but did not think about whether they recycled. The bags contained mostly cups, straws and other items from nutritional drinks. Troy’s wife Susan and their daughter Tabitha operate the drink side while he draws on his experience with sports and other collectibles.

“Always said when I retired I was going to open a picker, antique store,” Troy said. Susan wasn’t interested in that type of venture, he explained. After years as director of the Alliance Chamber of Commerce she wanted to open a nutritional lounge. They put the idea to have both at one location together over a couple months. “Took us a while to find a building and away we went,” Troy said.

Finding the range of collectables in the store was not much of a stretch. “I’ve collected for quite a while. . . . I had some doubles and extras and went to some auctions.” Comics have been popular so far. Starting with 1,500, he bought about 500 from people stopping in while selling about 1,000. One sold for $250. “It’s fun to see people come out. There are people around here who know a whole lot more about comic books than I do,” Troy said.

To learn about the nutritional drinks Susan took courses through the wholesale company they use to become a distributor. “We’ve been working to build our customer base,” Troy said. “The product is not really cheap, but it’s nutritional – less than a gram of sugar in most of them. . . . I think the drinks are a surprise to people, not what they expect.” As the season changes to autumn, Susan is looking at recipes for hot shakes and hot chocolates, though the rest of the cold drink menu will remain. Vintage items are year round, however Troy continues to look for inventory people want and buy/sell/trade things.

Recycling at the business is an extension of what they do at home. “We try to recycle everything we can. The product comes in cardboard boxes. If they’re left here (cups and straws) we encourage our customers to recycle as well. The ingredients come in plastic,” Troy said. In the back of the building are separate plastic bags for plastic and paper as well as a space for broken down boxes.

“I’ve been very involved with KAB since we moved here – 11th year on the KAB board, got us focused on that,” he said. Troy explained he also keeps the school district involved, adding “it is very important to keep it out of the landfill.”

The vintage aspect of the business is part of the “reuse” side of the triangle. Kept in good condition, collectors will continue to circulate everything from sports cards to action figures indefinitely. Troy pointed out a few examples from the floor including a flipperless pinball machine from the 1930s and a 1911 doll made in Germany for Sears.

The Unzickers have enjoyed the family aspect of the business. Tabitha helped all summer and now works nights and weekends. “Brings us together more as a family,” Troy said, adding they

are learning more about each side than they may have wanted to. He likes hearing about others’ collections and just sitting and visiting.

By John E. Weare Keep Alliance BeautifulOver the noon hour one day this summer I was manning the shop as the rest of our crew was out on a cardboard run. Dr. Troy Unzicker, Alliance Public Schools superintendent, pulled up to the south door at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center and handed me a couple large black bags from Sweet Pickin’s, his family’s new business downtown.I had been to the nutrition/variety shop since it opened May 8, but did not think about whether they recycled. The bags contained mostly cups, straws and other items from nutritional drinks. Troy’s wife Susan and their daughter Tabitha operate the drink side while he draws on his experience with sports and other collectibles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693927785104.jpeg" alt="Troy and Susan Unzicker, owners of Sweet Pickin's" />
 <figcaption>Troy and Susan Unzicker, owners of Sweet Pickin's</figcaption>
 </figure>“Always said when I retired I was going to open a picker, antique store,” Troy said. Susan wasn’t interested in that type of venture, he explained. After years as director of the Alliance Chamber of Commerce she wanted to open a nutritional lounge. They put the idea to have both at one location together over a couple months. “Took us a while to find a building and away we went,” Troy said.Finding the range of collectables in the store was not much of a stretch. “I’ve collected for quite a while. . . . I had some doubles and extras and went to some auctions.” Comics have been popular so far. Starting with 1,500, he bought about 500 from people stopping in while selling about 1,000. One sold for $250. “It’s fun to see people come out. There are people around here who know a whole lot more about comic books than I do,” Troy said.To learn about the nutritional drinks Susan took courses through the wholesale company they use to become a distributor. “We’ve been working to build our customer base,” Troy said. “The product is not really cheap, but it’s nutritional – less than a gram of sugar in most of them. . . . I think the drinks are a surprise to people, not what they expect.” As the season changes to autumn, Susan is looking at recipes for hot shakes and hot chocolates, though the rest of the cold drink menu will remain. Vintage items are year round, however Troy continues to look for inventory people want and buy/sell/trade things.Recycling at the business is an extension of what they do at home. “We try to recycle everything we can. The product comes in cardboard boxes. If they’re left here (cups and straws) we encourage our customers to recycle as well. The ingredients come in plastic,” Troy said. In the back of the building are separate plastic bags for plastic and paper as well as a space for broken down boxes.“I’ve been very involved with KAB since we moved here – 11th year on the KAB board, got us focused on that,” he said. Troy explained he also keeps the school district involved, adding “it is very important to keep it out of the landfill.”The vintage aspect of the business is part of the “reuse” side of the triangle. Kept in good condition, collectors will continue to circulate everything from sports cards to action figures indefinitely. Troy pointed out a few examples from the floor including a flipperless pinball machine from the 1930s and a 1911 doll made in Germany for Sears.The Unzickers have enjoyed the family aspect of the business. Tabitha helped all summer and now works nights and weekends. “Brings us together more as a family,” Troy said, adding theyare learning more about each side than they may have wanted to. He likes hearing about others’ collections and just sitting and visiting.

KAB: Delivery From Sweet Pickin’s

KEARNEY - A history-making return of the Pawnee to Fort Kearny will be celebrated Oct. 7 at a "Share the History, Share the Harvest" event at Fort Kearny State Historical Park and the nearby State Recreation Area.

The focus will be a long-overdue recognition of the Pawnee Scouts' U.S. military service at Fort Kearny from 1864-1871. Overall, an estimated 1,000 Pawnees served as military allies from 1864-1877.

According to Mark van de Logt, an associate professor of history at Texas A&amp;M University at Qatar and author of "War Party in Blue, Pawnee Scouts in the U.S. Army," the Scouts were valuable allies as people and railroads moved west. The Pawnee had knowledge of the terrain, familiarity with Lakota and Cheyenne military tactics, and endurance in battle.

Fort Kearny State Park Superintendent Gene Hunt said, "It will be an honor to visit with descendants of Pawnee Scouts who served at Fort Kearny."

There also will be a celebration of the 2023 harvest of Pawnee crops and of the 20th anniversary of the Pawnee Seed Preservation Society, a partnership between Nebraska growers and the Pawnee in Oklahoma to restore more than 20 Pawnee corn varieties.

Ronnie O'Brien of Shelton, coordinator of Nebraska growers for Pawnee Keeper-of-the-Seeds and preservation society Executive Director Deb Echo-Hawk, said, "If there is such a thing as current history, this is it. It's been a privilege to help restore Pawnee corn in its native Nebraska soil."

The event to honor the Pawnee is part of Kearney's 150th anniversary celebration, in conjunction with the Buffalo County Historical Society. Also notable, 2023 is the 175th anniversary of the construction of Fort Kearny at the current site along the Platte River southeast of the city.

Oct. 7 events will start with history re-enactors, activities and displays at the historical park from 9 a.m. to noon.

At the state recreation area, lunch will be available for purchase, starting at noon. From 1-5 p.m., visitors can attend the recognition of Pawnee Scouts – some direct descendants plan to be present - and visit displays of Pawnee heritage crops.

Pawnee singers, drummers and dancers will help attendees learn about Pawnee culture. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from the Pawnee about how important the Pawnee Scouts and their sacred corn are to their culture," Hunt said.

There is no admission fee, but a Nebraska State Park entry permit is required at both sites. The historical park and SRA are one mile apart on Highway 50A.

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for seating.

For more information, visit the website at VisitKearny.org or call 308-865-5305.

By Nebraska Press AssociationKEARNEY - A history-making return of the Pawnee to Fort Kearny will be celebrated Oct. 7 at a "Share the History, Share the Harvest" event at Fort Kearny State Historical Park and the nearby State Recreation Area.The focus will be a long-overdue recognition of the Pawnee Scouts' U.S. military service at Fort Kearny from 1864-1871. Overall, an estimated 1,000 Pawnees served as military allies from 1864-1877.According to Mark van de Logt, an associate professor of history at Texas A&amp;M University at Qatar and author of "War Party in Blue, Pawnee Scouts in the U.S. Army," the Scouts were valuable allies as people and railroads moved west. The Pawnee had knowledge of the terrain, familiarity with Lakota and Cheyenne military tactics, and endurance in battle.Fort Kearny State Park Superintendent Gene Hunt said, "It will be an honor to visit with descendants of Pawnee Scouts who served at Fort Kearny."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693927207648.jpeg" alt="Pawnee Scouts Roan Chief, Knife Chief, Charlie Brave Chief and Young Chief. History Nebraska photo RG2065. PH: 13-2." />
 <figcaption>Pawnee Scouts Roan Chief, Knife Chief, Charlie Brave Chief and Young Chief. History Nebraska photo RG2065. PH: 13-2.</figcaption>
 </figure>There also will be a celebration of the 2023 harvest of Pawnee crops and of the 20th anniversary of the Pawnee Seed Preservation Society, a partnership between Nebraska growers and the Pawnee in Oklahoma to restore more than 20 Pawnee corn varieties.Ronnie O'Brien of Shelton, coordinator of Nebraska growers for Pawnee Keeper-of-the-Seeds and preservation society Executive Director Deb Echo-Hawk, said, "If there is such a thing as current history, this is it. It's been a privilege to help restore Pawnee corn in its native Nebraska soil."The event to honor the Pawnee is part of Kearney's 150th anniversary celebration, in conjunction with the Buffalo County Historical Society. Also notable, 2023 is the 175th anniversary of the construction of Fort Kearny at the current site along the Platte River southeast of the city.Oct. 7 events will start with history re-enactors, activities and displays at the historical park from 9 a.m. to noon.At the state recreation area, lunch will be available for purchase, starting at noon. From 1-5 p.m., visitors can attend the recognition of Pawnee Scouts – some direct descendants plan to be present - and visit displays of Pawnee heritage crops.Pawnee singers, drummers and dancers will help attendees learn about Pawnee culture. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from the Pawnee about how important the Pawnee Scouts and their sacred corn are to their culture," Hunt said.There is no admission fee, but a Nebraska State Park entry permit is required at both sites. The historical park and SRA are one mile apart on Highway 50A.Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for seating.For more information, visit the website at VisitKearny.org or call 308-865-5305.

Pawnee event coming Fort Kearny State Park

SEPTEMBER 5, 2023 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — There’s still time to join the Nebraska State Patrol! Applications are open through September 15 to be part of the next class of troopers. 

“Applications are pacing ahead of our previous recruiting periods,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “The career options and statewide opportunity as a Nebraska State Trooper, coupled with a great benefits package, are major draws for anyone looking for a rewarding career in law enforcement.” 

Troopers receive a starting salary of $30 per hour ($62,400 annually) upon graduating from the NSP Training Academy. Recruits are paid $27.46 per hour while attending the 22-week training program at the NSP Training Academy. Troopers receive excellent benefits, including medical and life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and a great retirement program. Bilingual troopers are also eligible for a 2.5% pay increase upon graduation. 

By the Nebraska State PatrolSEPTEMBER 5, 2023 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — There’s still time to join the Nebraska State Patrol! Applications are open through September 15 to be part of the next class of troopers. “Applications are pacing ahead of our previous recruiting periods,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “The career options and statewide opportunity as a Nebraska State Trooper, coupled with a great benefits package, are major draws for anyone looking for a rewarding career in law enforcement.” Troopers receive a starting salary of $30 per hour ($62,400 annually) upon graduating from the NSP Training Academy. Recruits are paid $27.46 per hour while attending the 22-week training program at the NSP Training Academy. Troopers receive excellent benefits, including medical and life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and a great retirement program. Bilingual troopers are also eligible for a 2.5% pay increase upon graduation. Career paths as a trooper include patrolling Nebraska’s roadways, criminal investigations, SWAT team, K9 handler, drone operator, helicopter and airplane pilot, Carrier Enforcement, Bomb Squad, crisis negotiator, Executive Protection, and more. With dozens of specialty positions, a career as a trooper is a career that you get to define.“From border to border, troopers serve in numerous ways to keep Nebraska safe,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Now is a great time to join our team, serve with dedication, and help keep your community and state safe. You bring the desire to make a difference and our Training Academy troopers will equip you with the skills to serve with honor and expertise.” The next class of recruits will begin the NSP Training Academy on January 2, 2024, and are scheduled to graduate on June 14, 2024. Applicants must be a United States citizen and at least 21 years of age by graduation. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalence. Additional information about the hiring process, including physical requirements and benefits of serving as a trooper, can be found at NebraskaTroopers.com.

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