By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...
  Box Butte County in the panhandle of Nebraska...
  Northwestern Morrill County in the panhandle of Nebraska...
  Northeastern Scotts Bluff County in the panhandle of Nebraska...
  Southeastern Sioux County in the panhandle of Nebraska...

* Until 500 PM MDT.

* 

At 158 PM MDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing
  heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1.75 and 2.5 inches of
  rain have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 0.75 to 1.5 inches
  in 3 hours. Additional rainfall amounts of 0.75 to 1.5 inches are
  possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected
  to begin shortly.



  HAZARD...Flash flooding caused by thunderstorms.

  SOURCE...Radar.



  IMPACT...Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban
           areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as
           other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

* 

Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...
  Alliance, Hemingford, Kilpatrick Lake, Flahertys Corner and Berea.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don`t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood
deaths occur in vehicles.

Please report observed flooding to local emergency services or law
enforcement and request they pass this information to the National
Weather Service when you can do so safely.&nbsp;

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYThe National Weather Service in Cheyenne has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...
 Box Butte County in the panhandle of Nebraska...
 Northwestern Morrill County in the panhandle of Nebraska...
 Northeastern Scotts Bluff County in the panhandle of Nebraska...
 Southeastern Sioux County in the panhandle of Nebraska...

* Until 500 PM MDT.

* At 158 PM MDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing
 heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1.75 and 2.5 inches of
 rain have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 0.75 to 1.5 inches
 in 3 hours. Additional rainfall amounts of 0.75 to 1.5 inches are
 possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected
 to begin shortly.

 HAZARD...Flash flooding caused by thunderstorms.

 SOURCE...Radar.

 IMPACT...Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban
 areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as
 other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...
 Alliance, Hemingford, Kilpatrick Lake, Flahertys Corner and Berea.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don`t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood
deaths occur in vehicles.

Please report observed flooding to local emergency services or law
enforcement and request they pass this information to the National
Weather Service when you can do so safely.&nbsp;

Flash Flood Warning issued for Box Butte, Morrill, Sioux, Scotts Bluff Counties 

**UPDATE** Isabelle has been located and is safe. Thank you to everyone who helped spread the word

NORTH PLATTE, NEB - The North Platte Police Department is currently looking for 17 year old Isabelle Wright, who is a missing/runaway juvenile.  Isabelle is approximately 5'06, 190 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.  Isabelle was last seen in the 2300 Block of East D St, on June 12th around 11:00 am.  Isabelle is possibly wearing a red t-shirt with black shorts.  If you have any information on Isabelle's whereabouts, please contact the North Platte Police Department.

**UPDATE** Isabelle has been located and is safe. Thank you to everyone who helped spread the wordNORTH PLATTE, NEB - The North Platte Police Department is currently looking for 17 year old Isabelle Wright, who is a missing/runaway juvenile. Isabelle is approximately 5'06, 190 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. Isabelle was last seen in the 2300 Block of East D St, on June 12th around 11:00 am. Isabelle is possibly wearing a red t-shirt with black shorts. If you have any information on Isabelle's whereabouts, please contact the North Platte Police Department.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnorthplattepolice%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02RcyoSA8HPiFpnoLrRQAXHaBdE2jn1ZDUshKrxM9b2RBon9VgETaiHNRiEkjxXSKZl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="598" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

UPDATE: North Platte Police Department looking for missing/runaway juvenile

By&nbsp;Pheasants Forever, Inc. and Quail Forever

&nbsp; Pheasants Forever is putting on a Habitat Tour June 20 called “Where the HECK are the Pheasants?” 

We will start at 9am at the Alliance Knight Museum, have a Subway lunch around noon, and head to the field to look at some good habitat and end around 1pm. Registration is free but we do request folks sign up on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskapf.com/" target="_blank">www.NebraskaPF.com</a>&nbsp;for an accurate meal count.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By&nbsp;Pheasants Forever, Inc. and Quail Forever<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686846953941.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Pheasants Forever is putting on a Habitat Tour June 20 called “Where the HECK are the Pheasants?” We will start at 9am at the Alliance Knight Museum, have a Subway lunch around noon, and head to the field to look at some good habitat and end around 1pm. Registration is free but we do request folks sign up on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskapf.com/" target="_blank">www.NebraskaPF.com</a>&nbsp;for an accurate meal count.&nbsp;&nbsp;

'Where the heck are the pheasants?' to be held in Alliance 

On May 12, the Chadron Federal Credit Union was robbed by a male suspect. 

The male suspect fled the bank on foot, but during the course of the investigation, investigators with the Chadron Police Department were able to identify a suspected vehicle used in the robbery. Additionally, investigators have developed a suspect in the case. The suspect is believed to be out of our region and possibly in a state located in the southern United States. 

The Chadron Police Department is working with federal law enforcement agencies in order to locate the suspect and the suspected vehicle used in the robbery. 

At this time, the suspect’s name will not be provided due to investigatory purposes, as the investigation is ongoing.

By Chadron Police DepartmentOn May 12, the Chadron Federal Credit Union was robbed by a male suspect. The male suspect fled the bank on foot, but during the course of the investigation, investigators with the Chadron Police Department were able to identify a suspected vehicle used in the robbery. Additionally, investigators have developed a suspect in the case. The suspect is believed to be out of our region and possibly in a state located in the southern United States. The Chadron Police Department is working with federal law enforcement agencies in order to locate the suspect and the suspected vehicle used in the robbery. At this time, the suspect’s name will not be provided due to investigatory purposes, as the investigation is ongoing.

Chadron police release more details on bank robbery 

NORTH PLATTE, Neb - JoSee Saults was named Miss Rodeo Nebraska 2024 Lady-in-Waiting Wednesday night during the Buffalo Bill Hall of Fame Rodeo in North Platte.

JoSee Saults is the 22-year-old daughter of Scott and Jill Saults from Big Springs, NE. JoSee just recently graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in Communication and a minor in Sociology. She plans to attend law school. JoSee grew up on her family ranch where they raise horses and a small herd of commercial cattle. JoSee competed in both junior and high school rodeo. During college, JoSee was on the Eastern Wyoming College rodeo team, and she served as the team president. JoSee enjoys competing in Breakaway roping and training horses.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb - JoSee Saults was named Miss Rodeo Nebraska 2024 Lady-in-Waiting Wednesday night during the Buffalo Bill Hall of Fame Rodeo in North Platte.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMissRodeoNebraska%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0bs5tEN4cqGXSPPpe7NZSmaYSQ5G8oqRHkh8Ys4UZedimrSBNg5dJn7bFgb6TKVhel&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="590" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683252262291.jpeg" alt="JoSee Saults ,&nbsp;Miss Rodeo Nebraska 2024 Lady-in-Waiting" />
 <figcaption>JoSee Saults ,&nbsp;Miss Rodeo Nebraska 2024 Lady-in-Waiting</figcaption>
 </figure>JoSee Saults is the 22-year-old daughter of Scott and Jill Saults from Big Springs, NE. JoSee just recently graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in Communication and a minor in Sociology. She plans to attend law school. JoSee grew up on her family ranch where they raise horses and a small herd of commercial cattle. JoSee competed in both junior and high school rodeo. During college, JoSee was on the Eastern Wyoming College rodeo team, and she served as the team president. JoSee enjoys competing in Breakaway roping and training horses.

Saults wins 2024 Miss Rodeo Nebraska Crown

By Chadron Police Department On June 14, Lt. Walz responded to a report of two people acting suspiciously inside a&nbsp;vehicle parked in front of the courthouse. Lt. Walz had contact with the vehicle and its two&nbsp;occupants. Based on observed behavior, Lt. Walz asked for consent to look in the passenger’s&nbsp;purse, and the passenger consented. &nbsp;Lt. Walz quickly located a partially smoked blue M-30 pill&nbsp;which based on his training and experience he recognized as being a suspected fentanyl tablet.&nbsp;After locating suspected illegal narcotics in the purse, Sgt. Stolley and Officer Hanson conducted&nbsp;a search of the vehicle. The search resulted in a seizure of: 322 M-30 fentanyl pills; 7.84g of&nbsp;methamphetamine; $394 in cash; and numerous items of drug paraphernalia. &nbsp; As a result of the investigation, 25-year-old Lauren Armstrong, was placed under arrest and&nbsp;taken to the Dawes County Jail. &nbsp;Armstrong was arrested for Possession with Intent to Distribute&nbsp;Fentanyl; Possession of Methamphetamine (Class IV felony), possession of drug paraphernalia&nbsp;(infraction). Bond was set at 10% of $50,000.00. &nbsp; 23-year-old Amanda Koger was also arrested for Possession of Fentanyl (Class IV felony),&nbsp;possession of drug paraphernalia (infraction). Bond was set at 10% of $50,000.00. This investigation serves as a great reminder to us all, when you see something suspicious, call&nbsp;your local law enforcement officials to take a look into it. &nbsp;We want to thank the public for their&nbsp;continued support and for all the information and tips that come in. &nbsp;

By Chadron Police Department On June 14, Lt. Walz responded to a report of two people acting suspiciously inside a&nbsp;vehicle parked in front of the courthouse. Lt. Walz had contact with the vehicle and its two&nbsp;occupants. Based on observed behavior, Lt. Walz asked for consent to look in the passenger’s&nbsp;purse, and the passenger consented. &nbsp;Lt. Walz quickly located a partially smoked blue M-30 pill&nbsp;which based on his training and experience he recognized as being a suspected fentanyl tablet.&nbsp;After locating suspected illegal narcotics in the purse, Sgt. Stolley and Officer Hanson conducted&nbsp;a search of the vehicle. The search resulted in a seizure of: 322 M-30 fentanyl pills; 7.84g of&nbsp;methamphetamine; $394 in cash; and numerous items of drug paraphernalia. &nbsp; As a result of the investigation, 25-year-old Lauren Armstrong, was placed under arrest and&nbsp;taken to the Dawes County Jail. &nbsp;Armstrong was arrested for Possession with Intent to Distribute&nbsp;Fentanyl; Possession of Methamphetamine (Class IV felony), possession of drug paraphernalia&nbsp;(infraction). Bond was set at 10% of $50,000.00. &nbsp; 23-year-old Amanda Koger was also arrested for Possession of Fentanyl (Class IV felony),&nbsp;possession of drug paraphernalia (infraction). Bond was set at 10% of $50,000.00. This investigation serves as a great reminder to us all, when you see something suspicious, call&nbsp;your local law enforcement officials to take a look into it. &nbsp;We want to thank the public for their&nbsp;continued support and for all the information and tips that come in. &nbsp;

CPD: Suspicious report results in 2 arrests, seizure of over 300 fentanyl tabs

The Scottsbluff Police Department is aware of numerous calls occurring in the community from a number that is being spoofed by the callers to appear to be from the police department. The numbers are (308) 630-626*. These are actual phone numbers to the police department; however, these calls are being made by subjects attempting to scam those being called.

DO NOT provide any personal or financial information to the callers. The callers are also using names of officers whom actually work for the department. A common name being used is Sgt. Philip Eckerberg. The callers are indicating that they work for the police department and that the subject being called has a warrant for their arrest.

If you receive a call like this, hang up the phone and call the communications center at 632-7176. We have also received information that some of these calls may be occurring with the use of Gering Police Officer names.

By Scottsbluff Police DepartmentThe Scottsbluff Police Department is aware of numerous calls occurring in the community from a number that is being spoofed by the callers to appear to be from the police department. The numbers are (308) 630-626*. These are actual phone numbers to the police department; however, these calls are being made by subjects attempting to scam those being called.DO NOT provide any personal or financial information to the callers. The callers are also using names of officers whom actually work for the department. A common name being used is Sgt. Philip Eckerberg. The callers are indicating that they work for the police department and that the subject being called has a warrant for their arrest.If you receive a call like this, hang up the phone and call the communications center at 632-7176. We have also received information that some of these calls may be occurring with the use of Gering Police Officer names.

Scottsbluff police remind community of phone scam 

Alliance, NE – The Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center will be closed at 5:00pm on Friday, June 16th due to the Highway #2 Cemetery Tour.

The Knight Museum invites you to join them for a Highway 2 Cemetery Tour. On Friday, June 16th we will meet at the Knight Museum, 908 Yellowstone Ave, at 9 a.m. and carpool to Antioch where Becky Herian will give an overview of the Potash industry and then on to Lakeside to the Ode Black Cemetery. From there we will head to the St Bernard’s Cemetery in Ellsworth and the Bingham Cemetery. We will go next to Ashby, then to Hyannis and finish our day at Whitman. There are so many interesting stories in these historic towns which will make this a fun filled day. Several local people will be joining us with their insights about their communities. Bring a lunch and be part of the fun. RSVPs are helpful for a headcount but not necessary. Muck boots might come in handy, but not necessary. Some of the cemeteries are a little ‘wild’.

For more information, call Becci at 308-762-2384

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center will be closed at 5:00pm on Friday, June 16th due to the Highway #2 Cemetery Tour.The Knight Museum invites you to join them for a Highway 2 Cemetery Tour. On Friday, June 16th we will meet at the Knight Museum, 908 Yellowstone Ave, at 9 a.m. and carpool to Antioch where Becky Herian will give an overview of the Potash industry and then on to Lakeside to the Ode Black Cemetery. From there we will head to the St Bernard’s Cemetery in Ellsworth and the Bingham Cemetery. We will go next to Ashby, then to Hyannis and finish our day at Whitman. There are so many interesting stories in these historic towns which will make this a fun filled day. Several local people will be joining us with their insights about their communities. Bring a lunch and be part of the fun. RSVPs are helpful for a headcount but not necessary. Muck boots might come in handy, but not necessary. Some of the cemeteries are a little ‘wild’.For more information, call Becci at 308-762-2384

Knight Museum to close early for sandhills 'Cemetery Tour'

The heat is high and so is the activity of mosquitoes. Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD) is continuing West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance activities to monitor the presence of the virus in the Panhandle.

PPHD in cooperation with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services conducts West Nile virus tracking through the months of May to October. PPHD uses light traps to collect mosquitoes for testing. If you see one of these traps around the area during summer months, that means there are ongoing efforts to track mosquitoes. Once mosquitoes are collected, they are sent to the Nebraska DHHS Public Health Environmental Lab.

Panhandle residents are urged to exercise caution when outdoors. To avoid mosquito bites, PPHD recommends:

· Applying insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

· Wearing long-sleeved shirt, pants and socks in wooded areas or areas of tall grass.

· Avoiding going out at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

· Eliminating standing water to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

· Keep window screens in good repair, and.

· Use larvicides that contain Bacillus thuringiensis in standing water that is not easily drainable.

The Panhandle reported 2 human cases and 1 positive mosquito pool in 2022 with the addition of a case of equine West Nile virus. Prevention is still the best way to keep you and your family protected against WNV. It is also important to practice prevention to help stop tick bites. Ticks live in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas and spending increased time outside increases the chances of encountering them.

Applying insect repellent is still important along with:

· Showering immediately after being outdoors.

· Checking for ticks and removing immediately if found.

To request further information on West Nile virus or tick bite prevention, please visit www.pphd.ne.gov or call 308-487-3600 x108. Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety and quality of life for all who live, learn, work and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community.

By Panhandle Public Health DistrictThe heat is high and so is the activity of mosquitoes. Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD) is continuing West Nile virus (WNV) surveillance activities to monitor the presence of the virus in the Panhandle.PPHD in cooperation with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services conducts West Nile virus tracking through the months of May to October. PPHD uses light traps to collect mosquitoes for testing. If you see one of these traps around the area during summer months, that means there are ongoing efforts to track mosquitoes. Once mosquitoes are collected, they are sent to the Nebraska DHHS Public Health Environmental Lab.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686792858179.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Panhandle residents are urged to exercise caution when outdoors. To avoid mosquito bites, PPHD recommends:· Applying insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.· Wearing long-sleeved shirt, pants and socks in wooded areas or areas of tall grass.· Avoiding going out at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.· Eliminating standing water to reduce mosquito breeding sites.· Keep window screens in good repair, and.· Use larvicides that contain Bacillus thuringiensis in standing water that is not easily drainable.The Panhandle reported 2 human cases and 1 positive mosquito pool in 2022 with the addition of a case of equine West Nile virus. Prevention is still the best way to keep you and your family protected against WNV. It is also important to practice prevention to help stop tick bites. Ticks live in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas and spending increased time outside increases the chances of encountering them.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686792875742.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Applying insect repellent is still important along with:· Treating dogs and cats for ticks.· Showering immediately after being outdoors.· Checking for ticks and removing immediately if found.To request further information on West Nile virus or tick bite prevention, please visit www.pphd.ne.gov or call 308-487-3600 x108. Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety and quality of life for all who live, learn, work and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686792885949.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

PPHD: Fight the bite this summer

Immanuel Lutheran School will be hosting a Gigantic Garage Sale on Friday, June 16th from 8-5 pm and on Saturday, June 17th from 8-1 pm.

 Tons of new stuff has been added this week. 

If anyone has anything to donate for the sale, someone will be at the school every morning this week.

By Panhandle PostImmanuel Lutheran School will be hosting a Gigantic Garage Sale on Friday, June 16th from 8-5 pm and on Saturday, June 17th from 8-1 pm. Tons of new stuff has been added this week. If anyone has anything to donate for the sale, someone will be at the school every morning this week.

Alliance police to hold 'Cops and Bobbers' event at Laing Lake 

By Kerri Rempp, Discover Northwest Nebraska

“Never let the truth get in the way of a good story.” --Mike Kesselring

Anyone who knew Mike Kesselring heard that refrain often. Who else’s obituary would remember him as the “biggest tall-tale teller of our time,” and a “bullsh*tter?

“He was so good with a bald-faced lie or the raw truth, that sometimes it was difficult to tell the difference,” said Jenny Nixon, a Nebraska Extension Educator who knew Kesselring for decades. “(You) can view the evidence of that at the 2020 Harvest Moon Fall Festival in Chadron at the Liar’s Contest. Mike won hands down and probably did not even have to work very hard to come up with his story.” (Watch it at https://youtu.be/vIm3t671ADs)

Kesselring passed away May 13, leaving behind many stories and memories across a several industries and organizations (including in his book detailing stories of the Homestead, titled, of course, “Never Let the Truth Get in the Way of a Good Story”).

A native of Minnesota, he moved to Sioux County permanently in 1998, settling in the Nebraska badlands to work at and ultimately run High Plains Homestead and Drifter’s Cookshack, a replica frontier town, with his father Merlin and Roberta Kesselring.

“Only good people travel gravel roads,” was another favorite “Mikeism” he repeated as he described the allure of High Plains Homestead and its remote location.

In an interview with The Chadron Record in 2018, Kesselring said the attraction began with a dream of showcasing Merlin’s antiques in an original setting. The family lived in tents, huts and campers during the earliest days as they built the Homestead.

Along with the antiques and frontier town, they launched Drifter’s Cookshack, serving up what, in Kesselring’s mind, everyone wants, “a thick steak and a good piece of pie.”

His wife, Linda, said they loved meeting all the people who visited High Plains Homestead, often making lifelong friends.

“Every breakfast, Mike would be out front visiting,” Linda said. “He would be telling them stories. They’d really eat that up.”

Visitors who spent any appreciable time at the attraction, were treated to more stories as Kesselring grilled steaks outside over a wood fire.

“Everyone had to come talk to him at that grill,” Linda said.

“Mike was one of the rare individuals who accomplished his big dreams by sheer determination. He worked hard and expected you to do the same,” recalled Karyn Snook, who first met Kesselring while working at the Chadron Chamber of Commerce. “Mike lived his life believing that if you focused on doing one thing well, you would succeed.”

During her time at the Chamber, Snook realized how serious Kesselring was about tourism and promoting the region to potential visitors.

“Mike also believed that the Chamber had the answer to everything,” Snook said. “Mike didn’t believe that I didn’t have Senator Al Davis’ cell phone number, a direct line to Congressman Adrian Smith or a direct connection to the governor.”

Later, Snook went to work for the Kesselrings, joining the “Drifter Cookshack family.”

“And just like the mafia, once you’re family, you’re family for life,” she said. “Who knew at age 50 that I had been cutting bread incorrectly for my whole life? I eventually redeemed myself and was allowed to cut bread for sandwiches. And I knew Mike was talking about me when I heard ‘who the hell wrote this ticket?’ I finally found my niche washing dishes in the kitchen and was pressed into service to carry plates out to customers every Friday and Saturday night.”

The Cookshack crew often took to the road, catering events around the region, setting up a cook wagon at Agate Fossil Beds for the solar eclipse and grilling up steaks for the Governor’s Pine Ridge Turkey Hunt.

While Kesselring usually had a snappy retort ready to dish out, Snook recalls the one time she left him speechless.

“(We) were catering the annual Turkey Hunt supper at Chadron State Park. It was cold and rainy. Mike was having a hard time keeping the fire going. I proposed the use of a tarp I always carried in my car just in case. We rigged up a protection for his portable grill, and I even had an umbrella in the car to keep Mike dry. The requests continued: Did I have a screwdriver? How can we do this? Then came the request for a corkscrew. Mike just shook his head when I pulled out my Cabela’s multi tool which not only had a corkscrew but a bottle opener. And the liquor was served.”

Kesselring’s level of involvement around the region and across the state and the advertising scheme behind High Plains Homestead and the Drifter’s Cookshack put the attraction on the map. For those who worked there, like Nixon’s daughter, Mike and Linda came to be significant influences.

“They taught her how to treat guests with a top-notch level of hospitality and how to let off steam afterward,” Nixon said.

“People work hard all year to be able to take a vacation. And in some cases, they might even be robbing from the electric bill to do it, so we owe them hospitality,” Kesselring said in that 2018 Chadron Record interview.

Kesselring became a promoter, not only of his own business, but of Sioux County, Northwest Nebraska, Western Nebraska and the state as a whole. He was a founding member of the Western Nebraska Tourism Coalition, which united counties, cities and private business and attractions in a single focus of promoting the western half of the state. He also helped lead the charge in legislative efforts to make the Nebraska State Tourism Commission a stand-alone agency and served on the commission once that was accomplished. In 2014-2015, he worked with officials in Dawes and Sioux counties to increase the lodging tax and offered support for

the inter-local agreement that created Northwest Nebraska to promote both counties as a single visitor destination.

“I first met Mike when he came to the Cookshack to work with his dad. It was so remote, but I loved going there,” recalled Stacy Swinney. “We talked a lot about road and bridge issues affecting access to his always-growing business. When I became a Dawes County commissioner in 2011, followed by the fires in 2012, I talked with him a lot about fire recovery and the importance of tourism to our Northwest Nebraska area. I served on the Dawes County tourism board then, and his ideas were crucial, and over the next short time he was able to make things happen. He was truly a communicator, a promoter and a visionary, not only for our area, but far beyond.”

Throughout his time at High Plains Homestead, Kesselring served as a substitute teacher in Crawford and also worked with water and wastewater departments in Crawford, Hemingford, Whitney and Chadron.

“Mike is a huge loss from several points, and one area that I am not sure how many people realize that he was a huge part of several water and wastewater systems,” said Chadron City Manager and former Utilities Superintendent Tom Menke. “He worked tirelessly to assure communities had safe water to drink and assure the proper disposal of wastewater. His institutional and overall knowledge throughout his lifetime will never be able to be replaced. I had several opportunities to work with Mike on several issues and found that I learned more and had a better understanding of my system during our conversations.”

Mike and Linda sold High Plains Homestead in 2019, relocating to Harrison. He went to work as a salesman for Chadrad Communications, using his experience has a promoter to work with local businesses to increase their exposure. He became the top-selling salesperson in the radio station’s history.

He remained involved in community efforts as well, still serving on the Sioux County Travel Board, playing an active role in the Harrison V.F.W., leading an alcohol recovery group, playing Santa at numerous community appearances, and serving on the Harrison Village Board of Trustees. He was an enthusiastic participant in the annual chili cook-off, the annual salsa contest and worked with the committees to organize the Chadron Ag Banquet and the Country Christmas in Northwest Nebraska promotion. He was also an active member of the Harrison Bible Church, serving on the worship team.

“I will always remember how Mike worked to accomplish something in community work. He always knew what outcome he wanted to see and generally did not accept anything else,” Nixon said. “He was very direct and blunt, stating just what he thought, usually involving a bit of humor. There was never any question about where he stood, or where you stood with him. It took some getting used to, but once you did, it was refreshing to have no elephants in the room.”

After moving to Harrison, Kesselring was afflicted with Guillain Barre syndrome, a peripheral nerve disease, that landed him in the hospital for nearly two months and left him partially paralyzed. He was determined to recover, and put the same determination that made High Plains Homestead a success into his physical therapy. He recovered the ability to walk with

canes and resumed his active lifestyle, plowing snow for neighbors, mowing the Harrison cemetery and taking a vested interest in the appearance and success of Harrison’s Coffee Park in Sowbelly Canyon. When he came upon a task that he couldn’t accomplish on his own, he wasn’t shy about inviting neighbors over and putting them to work, after all “it would just take a few minutes,” and in his own words, “I love company!”

“Mike was like a big, loud uncle,” Snook said. “He listened, advised and gave a hug. You always knew exactly where you stood with Mike. He never minced one word about your current level of idiocy, but he also showed how much he cared and how much you were loved.”

His direct approach translated to phone conversations, too.

“When he had said what he wanted to say, he wrapped up with a very quick and perfunctory, ‘OK, bye.’ If you had something else to add, you had better be quick,” Nixon said.

In that spirit, Northwest Nebraska bids Kesselring farewell.

By Kerri Rempp, Discover Northwest Nebraska“Never let the truth get in the way of a good story.” --Mike Kesselring<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686757230414.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anyone who knew Mike Kesselring heard that refrain often. Who else’s obituary would remember him as the “biggest tall-tale teller of our time,” and a “bullsh*tter?“He was so good with a bald-faced lie or the raw truth, that sometimes it was difficult to tell the difference,” said Jenny Nixon, a Nebraska Extension Educator who knew Kesselring for decades. “(You) can view the evidence of that at the 2020 Harvest Moon Fall Festival in Chadron at the Liar’s Contest. Mike won hands down and probably did not even have to work very hard to come up with his story.” (Watch it at https://youtu.be/vIm3t671ADs)Kesselring passed away May 13, leaving behind many stories and memories across a several industries and organizations (including in his book detailing stories of the Homestead, titled, of course, “Never Let the Truth Get in the Way of a Good Story”).A native of Minnesota, he moved to Sioux County permanently in 1998, settling in the Nebraska badlands to work at and ultimately run High Plains Homestead and Drifter’s Cookshack, a replica frontier town, with his father Merlin and Roberta Kesselring.“Only good people travel gravel roads,” was another favorite “Mikeism” he repeated as he described the allure of High Plains Homestead and its remote location.In an interview with The Chadron Record in 2018, Kesselring said the attraction began with a dream of showcasing Merlin’s antiques in an original setting. The family lived in tents, huts and campers during the earliest days as they built the Homestead.Along with the antiques and frontier town, they launched Drifter’s Cookshack, serving up what, in Kesselring’s mind, everyone wants, “a thick steak and a good piece of pie.”His wife, Linda, said they loved meeting all the people who visited High Plains Homestead, often making lifelong friends.“Every breakfast, Mike would be out front visiting,” Linda said. “He would be telling them stories. They’d really eat that up.”Visitors who spent any appreciable time at the attraction, were treated to more stories as Kesselring grilled steaks outside over a wood fire.“Everyone had to come talk to him at that grill,” Linda said.“Mike was one of the rare individuals who accomplished his big dreams by sheer determination. He worked hard and expected you to do the same,” recalled Karyn Snook, who first met Kesselring while working at the Chadron Chamber of Commerce. “Mike lived his life believing that if you focused on doing one thing well, you would succeed.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686757254087.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>During her time at the Chamber, Snook realized how serious Kesselring was about tourism and promoting the region to potential visitors.“Mike also believed that the Chamber had the answer to everything,” Snook said. “Mike didn’t believe that I didn’t have Senator Al Davis’ cell phone number, a direct line to Congressman Adrian Smith or a direct connection to the governor.”Later, Snook went to work for the Kesselrings, joining the “Drifter Cookshack family.”“And just like the mafia, once you’re family, you’re family for life,” she said. “Who knew at age 50 that I had been cutting bread incorrectly for my whole life? I eventually redeemed myself and was allowed to cut bread for sandwiches. And I knew Mike was talking about me when I heard ‘who the hell wrote this ticket?’ I finally found my niche washing dishes in the kitchen and was pressed into service to carry plates out to customers every Friday and Saturday night.”The Cookshack crew often took to the road, catering events around the region, setting up a cook wagon at Agate Fossil Beds for the solar eclipse and grilling up steaks for the Governor’s Pine Ridge Turkey Hunt.While Kesselring usually had a snappy retort ready to dish out, Snook recalls the one time she left him speechless.“(We) were catering the annual Turkey Hunt supper at Chadron State Park. It was cold and rainy. Mike was having a hard time keeping the fire going. I proposed the use of a tarp I always carried in my car just in case. We rigged up a protection for his portable grill, and I even had an umbrella in the car to keep Mike dry. The requests continued: Did I have a screwdriver? How can we do this? Then came the request for a corkscrew. Mike just shook his head when I pulled out my Cabela’s multi tool which not only had a corkscrew but a bottle opener. And the liquor was served.”Kesselring’s level of involvement around the region and across the state and the advertising scheme behind High Plains Homestead and the Drifter’s Cookshack put the attraction on the map. For those who worked there, like Nixon’s daughter, Mike and Linda came to be significant influences.“They taught her how to treat guests with a top-notch level of hospitality and how to let off steam afterward,” Nixon said.“People work hard all year to be able to take a vacation. And in some cases, they might even be robbing from the electric bill to do it, so we owe them hospitality,” Kesselring said in that 2018 Chadron Record interview.Kesselring became a promoter, not only of his own business, but of Sioux County, Northwest Nebraska, Western Nebraska and the state as a whole. He was a founding member of the Western Nebraska Tourism Coalition, which united counties, cities and private business and attractions in a single focus of promoting the western half of the state. He also helped lead the charge in legislative efforts to make the Nebraska State Tourism Commission a stand-alone agency and served on the commission once that was accomplished. In 2014-2015, he worked with officials in Dawes and Sioux counties to increase the lodging tax and offered support forthe inter-local agreement that created Northwest Nebraska to promote both counties as a single visitor destination.“I first met Mike when he came to the Cookshack to work with his dad. It was so remote, but I loved going there,” recalled Stacy Swinney. “We talked a lot about road and bridge issues affecting access to his always-growing business. When I became a Dawes County commissioner in 2011, followed by the fires in 2012, I talked with him a lot about fire recovery and the importance of tourism to our Northwest Nebraska area. I served on the Dawes County tourism board then, and his ideas were crucial, and over the next short time he was able to make things happen. He was truly a communicator, a promoter and a visionary, not only for our area, but far beyond.”Throughout his time at High Plains Homestead, Kesselring served as a substitute teacher in Crawford and also worked with water and wastewater departments in Crawford, Hemingford, Whitney and Chadron.“Mike is a huge loss from several points, and one area that I am not sure how many people realize that he was a huge part of several water and wastewater systems,” said Chadron City Manager and former Utilities Superintendent Tom Menke. “He worked tirelessly to assure communities had safe water to drink and assure the proper disposal of wastewater. His institutional and overall knowledge throughout his lifetime will never be able to be replaced. I had several opportunities to work with Mike on several issues and found that I learned more and had a better understanding of my system during our conversations.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686757270948.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mike and Linda sold High Plains Homestead in 2019, relocating to Harrison. He went to work as a salesman for Chadrad Communications, using his experience has a promoter to work with local businesses to increase their exposure. He became the top-selling salesperson in the radio station’s history.He remained involved in community efforts as well, still serving on the Sioux County Travel Board, playing an active role in the Harrison V.F.W., leading an alcohol recovery group, playing Santa at numerous community appearances, and serving on the Harrison Village Board of Trustees. He was an enthusiastic participant in the annual chili cook-off, the annual salsa contest and worked with the committees to organize the Chadron Ag Banquet and the Country Christmas in Northwest Nebraska promotion. He was also an active member of the Harrison Bible Church, serving on the worship team.“I will always remember how Mike worked to accomplish something in community work. He always knew what outcome he wanted to see and generally did not accept anything else,” Nixon said. “He was very direct and blunt, stating just what he thought, usually involving a bit of humor. There was never any question about where he stood, or where you stood with him. It took some getting used to, but once you did, it was refreshing to have no elephants in the room.”After moving to Harrison, Kesselring was afflicted with Guillain Barre syndrome, a peripheral nerve disease, that landed him in the hospital for nearly two months and left him partially paralyzed. He was determined to recover, and put the same determination that made High Plains Homestead a success into his physical therapy. He recovered the ability to walk withcanes and resumed his active lifestyle, plowing snow for neighbors, mowing the Harrison cemetery and taking a vested interest in the appearance and success of Harrison’s Coffee Park in Sowbelly Canyon. When he came upon a task that he couldn’t accomplish on his own, he wasn’t shy about inviting neighbors over and putting them to work, after all “it would just take a few minutes,” and in his own words, “I love company!”“Mike was like a big, loud uncle,” Snook said. “He listened, advised and gave a hug. You always knew exactly where you stood with Mike. He never minced one word about your current level of idiocy, but he also showed how much he cared and how much you were loved.”His direct approach translated to phone conversations, too.“When he had said what he wanted to say, he wrapped up with a very quick and perfunctory, ‘OK, bye.’ If you had something else to add, you had better be quick,” Nixon said.In that spirit, Northwest Nebraska bids Kesselring farewell.“OK, bye!”

Kesselring of Sioux County remembered for stories, big character

Western Nebraska Blood Center and Chadron Community Hospital will hold a blood drive on June 19 at Prairie Pines Lodge.&nbsp;

Call 308-432-0273 to make an appointment.&nbsp;

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686756255008.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Western Nebraska Blood Center and Chadron Community Hospital will hold a blood drive on June 19 at Prairie Pines Lodge.&nbsp;Call 308-432-0273 to make an appointment.&nbsp;

Western Neb. Blood Center, Chadron Community Hospital to hold blood drive

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

One of the most challenging problems facing Americans today is inflation. It’s not like the inflation of the 70s and early 80s, but prices are rising faster than they have in decades. What is causing inflation, and why haven’t we been able to beat it?

We all remember the crises created by COVID - not just the health issues, but the economic problems as well. We went into lockdown. Businesses closed. Schools closed. Government offices closed. Millions of people were laid off from their jobs.

Our federal government responded with the CARES Act. The U.S. Congress and President Trump passed a $2 trillion stimulus bill called the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) in March 2020 to lessen the economic damage set in motion by the global coronavirus pandemic. The package included direct benefits to furloughed workers, families with children, small businesses, independent contractors and gig workers, large corporations, and the health care system. One year later an additional $1.9 trillion was approved by the new Congress and President Biden, called the American Rescue Plan. Its goal was also to promote economic recovery and avoid a recession. Federal and state governments have cut taxes. All this means we have more money flowing in our economy.

One of the terms we started hearing from economists in 2020 was “supply-chain issues.” We couldn’t get the products we needed for a variety of reasons. Most supply-chain issues centered on transportation: ships couldn’t deliver raw materials or completed products, ports were closed, factories were shut down due to COVID outbreaks. Because different nations specialized in producing specific types of parts or goods, the manufacturing sector of the economy struggled; in some areas it is still struggling. For example, the loss of silicon chips produced in China meant cars couldn’t be manufactured in the U.S.

We’ve seen some major changes in the labor market. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that in June, 2020, 18.1 million people were unemployed; 11.4 million (63 percent) were unable to work because their employer closed or lost business due to the pandemic. Millions more worked from home. Many people took early retirement or dropped out of the labor force for other reasons. Now we have record low unemployment rates, labor shortages, and wage increases.

The Russia-Ukraine war meant the disruption of global markets. This was especially true for farm products from Ukraine, the breadbasket of Europe, and the distribution of oil from Russia. Those products were sanctioned, embargoed, or blockaded in order to put pressure on one nation or the other.

Because of the influx of government money, supply-chain issues, labor shortages, and the Russia-Ukraine War, we have continued to deal with a major economic problem - inflation.

The standard, macroeconomic way to deal with inflation is for the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates and for the government to reduce spending. This reduces demand by making it harder to buy things, meaning people spend less.

A group of economists is now arguing that this current inflation is primarily seller’s inflation. A small number of firms in major industries have market power, which means they have the ability to hike prices and their competitors will do the same.

Businesses have, of course, dealt with rising costs, just like the rest of us. Therefore, they’ve had to raise prices. Their customers have willingly paid those prices, so why would those prices drop when costs go down? Corporate profits are way up, and so is the stock market. The wealthy have seen their riches skyrocket, with some Americans being worth hundreds of billions of dollars.

Clearly not everyone has been hurt by inflation.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityOne of the most challenging problems facing Americans today is inflation. It’s not like the inflation of the 70s and early 80s, but prices are rising faster than they have in decades. What is causing inflation, and why haven’t we been able to beat it?We all remember the crises created by COVID - not just the health issues, but the economic problems as well. We went into lockdown. Businesses closed. Schools closed. Government offices closed. Millions of people were laid off from their jobs.Our federal government responded with the CARES Act. The U.S. Congress and President Trump passed a $2 trillion stimulus bill called the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) in March 2020 to lessen the economic damage set in motion by the global coronavirus pandemic. The package included direct benefits to furloughed workers, families with children, small businesses, independent contractors and gig workers, large corporations, and the health care system. One year later an additional $1.9 trillion was approved by the new Congress and President Biden, called the American Rescue Plan. Its goal was also to promote economic recovery and avoid a recession. Federal and state governments have cut taxes. All this means we have more money flowing in our economy.One of the terms we started hearing from economists in 2020 was “supply-chain issues.” We couldn’t get the products we needed for a variety of reasons. Most supply-chain issues centered on transportation: ships couldn’t deliver raw materials or completed products, ports were closed, factories were shut down due to COVID outbreaks. Because different nations specialized in producing specific types of parts or goods, the manufacturing sector of the economy struggled; in some areas it is still struggling. For example, the loss of silicon chips produced in China meant cars couldn’t be manufactured in the U.S.We’ve seen some major changes in the labor market. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that in June, 2020, 18.1 million people were unemployed; 11.4 million (63 percent) were unable to work because their employer closed or lost business due to the pandemic. Millions more worked from home. Many people took early retirement or dropped out of the labor force for other reasons. Now we have record low unemployment rates, labor shortages, and wage increases.The Russia-Ukraine war meant the disruption of global markets. This was especially true for farm products from Ukraine, the breadbasket of Europe, and the distribution of oil from Russia. Those products were sanctioned, embargoed, or blockaded in order to put pressure on one nation or the other.Because of the influx of government money, supply-chain issues, labor shortages, and the Russia-Ukraine War, we have continued to deal with a major economic problem - inflation.The standard, macroeconomic way to deal with inflation is for the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates and for the government to reduce spending. This reduces demand by making it harder to buy things, meaning people spend less.A group of economists is now arguing that this current inflation is primarily seller’s inflation. A small number of firms in major industries have market power, which means they have the ability to hike prices and their competitors will do the same.Businesses have, of course, dealt with rising costs, just like the rest of us. Therefore, they’ve had to raise prices. Their customers have willingly paid those prices, so why would those prices drop when costs go down? Corporate profits are way up, and so is the stock market. The wealthy have seen their riches skyrocket, with some Americans being worth hundreds of billions of dollars.Clearly not everyone has been hurt by inflation.

Getting Ahead: Inflation - what causes it?

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Earlier today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) warned the Chinese Communist Party’s space ambitions threaten necessary aspects of our daily life, including agriculture in Nebraska. According to a DNI 2023 Threat Assessment Ricketts quoted at the hearing, “China is steadily progressing towards its goal of becoming a world-class space leader with the intent to match or surpass the United States by 2045.”

“One of the fears with this spaceport outside the People’s Republic of China is they will use that to sidestep or outright reject international space rules,”&nbsp;said Ricketts in the hearing.&nbsp;“This matter is incredibly important to all of us. From using ATMs to harvesting our food, we all rely on satellite technology. In my home state of Nebraska, for example, we rely heavily on satellite technology to run our harvesting machines, tractors, and so forth. In fact, one farmer told one of my staff members that if it wasn’t for satellite technology, he was worried that his equipment would be useless.”

Ricketts’ comments came during a Committee on Foreign Relations hearing exchange with Ambassador Cynthia Kierscht, nominee to be Ambassador to Djibouti, about the People’s Republic of China (PRC)’s planned spaceport in the East African nation of Djibouti. In 2017, Djibouti became the first country to host an overseas PRC military base. Earlier this year, a Chinese company signed a $1 billion agreement with the government of Djibouti to build and operate a spaceport, which will make Djibouti the first overseas country to host a Chinese launch facility.

Watch the video&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PFy4FjVAE0" target="_blank">HERE</a>

By Office of Sen. Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Earlier today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) warned the Chinese Communist Party’s space ambitions threaten necessary aspects of our daily life, including agriculture in Nebraska. According to a DNI 2023 Threat Assessment Ricketts quoted at the hearing, “China is steadily progressing towards its goal of becoming a world-class space leader with the intent to match or surpass the United States by 2045.”“One of the fears with this spaceport outside the People’s Republic of China is they will use that to sidestep or outright reject international space rules,”&nbsp;said Ricketts in the hearing.&nbsp;“This matter is incredibly important to all of us. From using ATMs to harvesting our food, we all rely on satellite technology. In my home state of Nebraska, for example, we rely heavily on satellite technology to run our harvesting machines, tractors, and so forth. In fact, one farmer told one of my staff members that if it wasn’t for satellite technology, he was worried that his equipment would be useless.”Ricketts’ comments came during a Committee on Foreign Relations hearing exchange with Ambassador Cynthia Kierscht, nominee to be Ambassador to Djibouti, about the People’s Republic of China (PRC)’s planned spaceport in the East African nation of Djibouti. In 2017, Djibouti became the first country to host an overseas PRC military base. Earlier this year, a Chinese company signed a $1 billion agreement with the government of Djibouti to build and operate a spaceport, which will make Djibouti the first overseas country to host a Chinese launch facility.Watch the video&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PFy4FjVAE0" target="_blank">HERE</a>

Ricketts warns CCP’s space ambitions threaten satellite tech, Neb. agriculture 

LINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;Governor&nbsp;Jim&nbsp;Pillen joined with Republican governors in urging congressional leaders to support the reintroduction of the Exposing Agricultural Trade Suppression Act, a bill that would uphold the Commerce Clause of the Constitution by preventing states from impeding interstate agricultural trade.&nbsp;Governor Pillen and Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds are leading the coalition of states, representing 54% of the country's pork production, in response to the Supreme Court's ruling in favor of California's Proposition 12, which dictates how pork is raised across state lines.

The letter states in part:&nbsp;"Despite California's reliance on its fellow States for food, Proposition 12 threatens to disrupt the very system Californians depend on for their pork supply. Its strict, activist-drafted requirements for pig farming sharply depart from the practices which are lawful in our States."

Governor Pillen hailed the stance taken by the coalition of states as a step toward protecting U.S. agriculture.

"I am proud to partner with Governor Reynolds in leading this initiative, alongside this group of governors,"&nbsp;said&nbsp;Governor Pillen.&nbsp;"Congress needs to act to protect our nation's agricultural interests from state's that are working to put onerous and unfounded regulations on livestock producers that will ultimately increase food costs and hurt farming operations."

Governor Reynolds added that California's Proposition 12 will hurt consumers and increase food insecurity if Congress does not act.

“California’s onerous requirements will pass the buck to American consumers – worsening the inflationary crisis gripping our economy,” said Governor Reynolds.&nbsp;“Iowa’s pork producers use science-based techniques to help feed America and the world, and California’s activist-drafted requirements will have a dramatic negative impact on those facing food insecurity. It’s time for Congress to use their power and allow pork producers around the country to do what they do best.”&nbsp;

By Office of Gov. Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;Governor&nbsp;Jim&nbsp;Pillen joined with Republican governors in urging congressional leaders to support the reintroduction of the Exposing Agricultural Trade Suppression Act, a bill that would uphold the Commerce Clause of the Constitution by preventing states from impeding interstate agricultural trade.&nbsp;Governor Pillen and Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds are leading the coalition of states, representing 54% of the country's pork production, in response to the Supreme Court's ruling in favor of California's Proposition 12, which dictates how pork is raised across state lines.The letter states in part:&nbsp;"Despite California's reliance on its fellow States for food, Proposition 12 threatens to disrupt the very system Californians depend on for their pork supply. Its strict, activist-drafted requirements for pig farming sharply depart from the practices which are lawful in our States." Governor Pillen hailed the stance taken by the coalition of states as a step toward protecting U.S. agriculture."I am proud to partner with Governor Reynolds in leading this initiative, alongside this group of governors,"&nbsp;said&nbsp;Governor Pillen.&nbsp;"Congress needs to act to protect our nation's agricultural interests from state's that are working to put onerous and unfounded regulations on livestock producers that will ultimately increase food costs and hurt farming operations."Governor Reynolds added that California's Proposition 12 will hurt consumers and increase food insecurity if Congress does not act. “California’s onerous requirements will pass the buck to American consumers – worsening the inflationary crisis gripping our economy,” said Governor Reynolds.&nbsp;“Iowa’s pork producers use science-based techniques to help feed America and the world, and California’s activist-drafted requirements will have a dramatic negative impact on those facing food insecurity. It’s time for Congress to use their power and allow pork producers around the country to do what they do best.”&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen joins governors in urging Congress to protect ag industry

Bands on Broadway in Scottsbluff will kick off their 2023 concert music series on June 15 in downtown Scottsbluff starting at 6 p.m.&nbsp;

High Horses and Kid Shelleen will kick off this year's season.&nbsp;

Bands on Broadway is an 8-week summer concert series held Thursdays June/July 6-9pm at 18th Street Plaza in Downtown Scottsbluff.

There's local and regional talent, food, and drinks. Remember to bring a blanket, lawn chair to enjoy great entertainment and food.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686675849197.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686675864001.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Bands on Broadway in Scottsbluff will kick off their 2023 concert music series on June 15 in downtown Scottsbluff starting at 6 p.m.&nbsp;High Horses and Kid Shelleen will kick off this year's season.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686676182959.jpeg" alt="Kid Shelleen performed at the 2022 Bands on the Bricks in downtown Alliance. Bands on the Bricks inspired western Nebraska's concert series in many area towns, which started in 2015 in Alliance. Photo by Kalin Krohe.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kid Shelleen performed at the 2022 Bands on the Bricks in downtown Alliance. Bands on the Bricks inspired western Nebraska's concert series in many area towns, which started in 2015 in Alliance. Photo by Kalin Krohe.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Bands on Broadway is an 8-week summer concert series held Thursdays June/July 6-9pm at 18th Street Plaza in Downtown Scottsbluff.There's local and regional talent, food, and drinks. Remember to bring a blanket, lawn chair to enjoy great entertainment and food.&nbsp;<figure>
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Bands on Broadway kicks off 2023 season in downtown Scottsbluff 

Alliance – Join the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center for a Highway #2 Cemetery Tour on Friday, June 16, 2023. We will meet at the Knight Museum, 908 Yellowstone Ave, at 9 a.m. and carpool to Antioch where Becky Herian will give an overview of the Potash industry and then on to Lakeside to the Ode Black Cemetery. From there we will head to the St Bernard’s Cemetery in Ellsworth and the Bingham Cemetery. We will go next to Ashby, then to Hyannis and finish our day at Whitman. There are so many interesting stories in these historic towns which will make this a fun filled day. Several local people will be joining us with their insights about their communities. Bring a lunch and be part of the fun. RSVPs are helpful for a headcount but not necessary. Muck boots might come in handy, but not necessary. Some of the cemeteries are a little ‘wild’.

By City of AllianceAlliance – Join the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center for a Highway #2 Cemetery Tour on Friday, June 16, 2023. We will meet at the Knight Museum, 908 Yellowstone Ave, at 9 a.m. and carpool to Antioch where Becky Herian will give an overview of the Potash industry and then on to Lakeside to the Ode Black Cemetery. From there we will head to the St Bernard’s Cemetery in Ellsworth and the Bingham Cemetery. We will go next to Ashby, then to Hyannis and finish our day at Whitman. There are so many interesting stories in these historic towns which will make this a fun filled day. Several local people will be joining us with their insights about their communities. Bring a lunch and be part of the fun. RSVPs are helpful for a headcount but not necessary. Muck boots might come in handy, but not necessary. Some of the cemeteries are a little ‘wild’.For more information, call Becci at 308-762-2384

Knight Museum to host 'Cemetery Tour' in Lakeside, Ellsworth, Hyannis

By Panhandle Post,&nbsp;Tanner Garcia -Alliance for Change&nbsp;

Please join us at the Alliance City park on Saturday June 17 from noon to 6 p.m. for our 4th annual "Pride in the Park" festival. 

Help us celebrate our theme of Unity and Community. 

Our event will include food trucks, vendors, a dj, live entertainment, face painting, and more.

A drag show and movie screening of "Thanks for Everything Judy Newmar" will be held at The Dead Unicorn Society music venue in Alliance that evening following the event.&nbsp;

The event is hosted by Alliance for Change.

By Panhandle Post,&nbsp;Tanner Garcia -Alliance for Change&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686667168945.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686669182011.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Please join us at the Alliance City park on Saturday June 17 from noon to 6 p.m. for our 4th annual "Pride in the Park" festival. Help us celebrate our theme of Unity and Community. Our event will include food trucks, vendors, a dj, live entertainment, face painting, and more.A drag show and movie screening of "Thanks for Everything Judy Newmar" will be held at The Dead Unicorn Society music venue in Alliance that evening following the event.&nbsp;The event is hosted by Alliance for Change.<figure>
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Annual PRIDE festival grows in Alliance community 

OMAHA — While Nebraska overall saw a slight population bump, 51 of the state’s counties lost residents between mid-2021 and mid-2022, according to a new census analysis by the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research.

Among the fastest-growing were suburban areas around the state’s core metropolitan counties.

Sarpy and Saunders Counties both grew by about 1.4% — outperforming the 0.1% that same year of mega neighbor Douglas.

Lancaster County, another population center, clocked in with a smaller 0.4% growth, compared to bordering Otoe County’s 1.2%.

Such patterns, said CPAR director Josie Schafer, who reviewed the latest census figures and assembled maps, reflect a national trend of bedroom communities picking up people after COVID-19 struck. CPAR is the designated State Data Center for Nebraska.

Especially as remote and hybrid work schedules became more accepted, she noted, many people have opted to move farther from urban centers and population clusters.

The census report also showed some of the strongest annual population growth in a handful of smaller, more rural Nebraska counties, including Frontier, Deuel, Greeley and Dawes.

Translation: “A little bit more stability in rural counties,” said Schafer.

Indeed, the analysis showed Frontier coming on strong as the frontrunner of the state’s growing counties after an 8.6% decline between 2010 and 2020.&nbsp;

Frontier is home to the University of Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture, which has noted&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/a-25-million-gift-to-nu-will-expand-the-barn-into-a-rural-student-center-and-boost-programs-at-urban-uno/">plans to expand</a>&nbsp;from about 300 to 500 students within the decade. The campus, in the town of Curtis, also is poised to get a new $12 million student and community center.

During the decade of 2010-2020, Schafer said that 68 of Nebraska’s 93 counties saw their population decline (compared to 51 during the year between July 2021 and July 2022).

The county-level population information for July 2021 to July 2022 followed statewide estimates from the Census Bureau. The updates take into account the official 2020 decennial counts and then use additional statistical processes and projections.

Nebraska’s latest population estimate of 1,967,923 represents an increase of 0.22% —&nbsp; just above the 50-state median of 0.19%.&nbsp;

At that rate, Nebraska topped percentage gains in Iowa, Missouri and Kansas (the Hawkeye state actually saw a dip).

Nebraska’s statewide growth rate fell short of the rate in bordering states of Colorado, Wyoming and South Dakota. South Dakota was among the country’s top performers.

Eighteen states lost population over that year.

The latest population data comes also as states nationwide,<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/have-jobs-need-people-is-the-message-at-nebraska-workforce-week-event/">&nbsp;including Nebraska</a>, grapple with workforce shortages exacerbated by the pandemic and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/13/nebraskas-shifting-workforce-demands-amid-brain-drain-should-sound-alarm-researcher-says/">demographic shifts</a>&nbsp;that include relatively fewer young people to fill jobs.

Population growth is key because it can spur a state’s economic activity via labor availability and tax paying residents that help cover costs for public services and amenities such as education and infrastructure.

Size factors into how much a state receives from federal grants, and economic development energy is often cited as a reason talent moves to an area.

According to a Pew Charitable Trusts report on national results, Florida was the fastest-growing state for the first time since the 1950s, expanding by 1.9% between mid-2021 and mid-2022.

Total U.S. population grew twice as fast during that time frame compared to the prior year, when states felt the brunt of the pandemic. Pew researchers said population growth nationally began to rebound last year as births spiked and COVID restrictions loosened, allowing more steady flow across borders.

Yet overall, Pew reported that nearly 1 in 5 states lost residents in 2022, and growth nationally was slower than the already sluggish pace over the preceding decade.

BY: CINDY GONZALEZ<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686666514894.jpeg" alt="Pew compares Census Bureau population estimates for states, mid-2021 to mid-2022. (Courtesy of Pew Charitable Trusts)" />
 <figcaption>Pew compares Census Bureau population estimates for states, mid-2021 to mid-2022. (Courtesy of Pew Charitable Trusts)</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA — While Nebraska overall saw a slight population bump, 51 of the state’s counties lost residents between mid-2021 and mid-2022, according to a new census analysis by the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research.Among the fastest-growing were suburban areas around the state’s core metropolitan counties.Sarpy and Saunders Counties both grew by about 1.4% — outperforming the 0.1% that same year of mega neighbor Douglas.Lancaster County, another population center, clocked in with a smaller 0.4% growth, compared to bordering Otoe County’s 1.2%.Such patterns, said CPAR director Josie Schafer, who reviewed the latest census figures and assembled maps, reflect a national trend of bedroom communities picking up people after COVID-19 struck. CPAR is the designated State Data Center for Nebraska.Especially as remote and hybrid work schedules became more accepted, she noted, many people have opted to move farther from urban centers and population clusters.The census report also showed some of the strongest annual population growth in a handful of smaller, more rural Nebraska counties, including Frontier, Deuel, Greeley and Dawes.Translation: “A little bit more stability in rural counties,” said Schafer.Indeed, the analysis showed Frontier coming on strong as the frontrunner of the state’s growing counties after an 8.6% decline between 2010 and 2020.&nbsp;Frontier is home to the University of Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture, which has noted&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/a-25-million-gift-to-nu-will-expand-the-barn-into-a-rural-student-center-and-boost-programs-at-urban-uno/">plans to expand</a>&nbsp;from about 300 to 500 students within the decade. The campus, in the town of Curtis, also is poised to get a new $12 million student and community center.During the decade of 2010-2020, Schafer said that 68 of Nebraska’s 93 counties saw their population decline (compared to 51 during the year between July 2021 and July 2022).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686666595389.jpeg" alt="2021-2022 population growth estimates by county in Nebraska based on latest U.S. Census release (Courtesy of University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research)" />
 <figcaption>2021-2022 population growth estimates by county in Nebraska based on latest U.S. Census release (Courtesy of University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research)</figcaption>
 </figure>The county-level population information for July 2021 to July 2022 followed statewide estimates from the Census Bureau. The updates take into account the official 2020 decennial counts and then use additional statistical processes and projections.Nebraska’s latest population estimate of 1,967,923 represents an increase of 0.22% —&nbsp; just above the 50-state median of 0.19%.&nbsp;At that rate, Nebraska topped percentage gains in Iowa, Missouri and Kansas (the Hawkeye state actually saw a dip).Nebraska’s statewide growth rate fell short of the rate in bordering states of Colorado, Wyoming and South Dakota. South Dakota was among the country’s top performers.Eighteen states lost population over that year.The latest population data comes also as states nationwide,<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/have-jobs-need-people-is-the-message-at-nebraska-workforce-week-event/">&nbsp;including Nebraska</a>, grapple with workforce shortages exacerbated by the pandemic and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/13/nebraskas-shifting-workforce-demands-amid-brain-drain-should-sound-alarm-researcher-says/">demographic shifts</a>&nbsp;that include relatively fewer young people to fill jobs.Population growth is key because it can spur a state’s economic activity via labor availability and tax paying residents that help cover costs for public services and amenities such as education and infrastructure.Size factors into how much a state receives from federal grants, and economic development energy is often cited as a reason talent moves to an area.According to a Pew Charitable Trusts report on national results, Florida was the fastest-growing state for the first time since the 1950s, expanding by 1.9% between mid-2021 and mid-2022.Total U.S. population grew twice as fast during that time frame compared to the prior year, when states felt the brunt of the pandemic. Pew researchers said population growth nationally began to rebound last year as births spiked and COVID restrictions loosened, allowing more steady flow across borders.Yet overall, Pew reported that nearly 1 in 5 states lost residents in 2022, and growth nationally was slower than the already sluggish pace over the preceding decade.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686666622753.jpeg" alt="2010-2020 population growth in Nebraska, by county, based on U.S. Census surveys (Courtesy of UNO Center for Public Affairs Research)" />
 <figcaption>2010-2020 population growth in Nebraska, by county, based on U.S. Census surveys (Courtesy of UNO Center for Public Affairs Research)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Population growth strongest in some Neb. suburban, rural counties

Thanks to:&nbsp; &nbsp;Chadron Chief of Police Rick Hickstein

Chadron Police Officers Seth Orsborn and Sergeant Patrick Young responded to an altercation at a trailer park in Chadron on Thursday, June 8, 2023,&nbsp; which resulted in the arrest of a 38-year-old male, Conrad Randall,&nbsp; for Second Degree Domestic Assault (Class IIA Felony) and Assault by Strangulation (Class IIA Felony).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chadron Chief of Police Rick Hickstein said...Thursday, June 8, 2023, Officer Orsborn and Sergeant Young received a report of a disturbance at a residence in Chadron Nebraska.&nbsp; The officers arrived on scene and contacted the reporting party.&nbsp; Officer Orsborn was advised a female was struck in the arm and leg with a hammer,&nbsp; shot in the forehead with an air powered rifle, and strangled by Randall.&nbsp; The female victim was able to flee the area and call 911.&nbsp; 

Officer Orsborn and Sergeant Young conducted a search of the residence,&nbsp; but were unable to locate Randall.&nbsp; Officer Orsborn and Sergeant Young left the scene after locating and seizing a hammer and air powered rifle suspected to have been used to commit the assault. 

Officer Orsborn and Sergeant Young were later called back to the residence being advised that Randall was observed returning to the area. Officer Orsborn and Sergeant Young conducted a second search of the residence, where Officer Orsborn located Randall hiding inside.&nbsp; Randall was placed under arrest. Randall also had one active Dawes County and one active Sheridan County bench warrant for his arrest.

Conrad Randall was taken into custody and booked into the Dawes County Jail.&nbsp; Bond was set at 10% of $250,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571081317806.png" alt="Chadron police" />
 <figcaption>Chadron police</figcaption>
 </figure>Thanks to:&nbsp; &nbsp;Chadron Chief of Police Rick HicksteinChadron Police Officers Seth Orsborn and Sergeant Patrick Young responded to an altercation at a trailer park in Chadron on Thursday, June 8, 2023,&nbsp; which resulted in the arrest of a 38-year-old male, Conrad Randall,&nbsp; for Second Degree Domestic Assault (Class IIA Felony) and Assault by Strangulation (Class IIA Felony).&nbsp;&nbsp;Chadron Chief of Police Rick Hickstein said...Thursday, June 8, 2023, Officer Orsborn and Sergeant Young received a report of a disturbance at a residence in Chadron Nebraska.&nbsp; The officers arrived on scene and contacted the reporting party.&nbsp; Officer Orsborn was advised a female was struck in the arm and leg with a hammer,&nbsp; shot in the forehead with an air powered rifle, and strangled by Randall.&nbsp; The female victim was able to flee the area and call 911.&nbsp; Officer Orsborn and Sergeant Young conducted a search of the residence,&nbsp; but were unable to locate Randall.&nbsp; Officer Orsborn and Sergeant Young left the scene after locating and seizing a hammer and air powered rifle suspected to have been used to commit the assault. Officer Orsborn and Sergeant Young were later called back to the residence being advised that Randall was observed returning to the area. Officer Orsborn and Sergeant Young conducted a second search of the residence, where Officer Orsborn located Randall hiding inside.&nbsp; Randall was placed under arrest. Randall also had one active Dawes County and one active Sheridan County bench warrant for his arrest.Conrad Randall was taken into custody and booked into the Dawes County Jail.&nbsp; Bond was set at 10% of $250,000.

Chadron PD responds to Altercations

Thanks to the Chadron Police Dept.

The Chadron Police Department raised awareness about seat belt safety to area residents during its annual Click It or Ticket high-visibility seat belt enforcement campaign, held May 22 through June 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Law enforcement officers wrote a total of four citations for seat belt violations in the process.&nbsp; The campaign, which coincided with the Memorial Day holiday, combined increased enforcement and a zero-tolerance policy, with effective communication to road users on the importance of seat belt use.

“This year’s Click It or Ticket campaign was a major success,” said Sgt. Cloyd. “Through our enforcement efforts, we believe we helped keep community members safe and reminded drivers of the importance of buckling up.&nbsp; Issuing tickets was not our goal, but it was a way to remind people of the importance of such a simple action.” Sgt. Cloyd also stated, “Seatbelt Violations are always a concern for the Chadron Police Department; enforcement action is taken on a daily basis if occupants of vehicles are stopped for a primary infraction and found to be in violation of the Nebraska seat belt laws.&nbsp; 

During our Click It or Ticket efforts Officers with the Chadron Police Department made a difference in driving habits through education and enforcement actions.&nbsp; A total of 68 stops were conducted,&nbsp; 45 Warnings and 23 Citations, for a variety of violations including, but not limited to, Head/Tail Light Violations, Failure to Yield Right of Way, Registration Violations, Stop Sign Violations, Driving While Suspended, Seat Belt Violations, and Speeding.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than half of the passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes in 2020 were unrestrained. During this year’s campaign, NHTSA urged law enforcement nationwide to issue seat belt citations to anyone caught in violation of the law — during the day, and especially at night, when 58% of those killed are unrestrained.

The national seat belt use rate in 2021 was 90.4%. The Click It or Ticket campaign is focusing on the remaining 9.6% who still don’t buckle up. Thousands of lives could be saved each year if every person was properly restrained on the road. 

For more information on the Click It or Ticket mobilization, please visit www.nhtsa.gov/ciot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684330004334.png" alt="courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>Thanks to the Chadron Police Dept.The Chadron Police Department raised awareness about seat belt safety to area residents during its annual Click It or Ticket high-visibility seat belt enforcement campaign, held May 22 through June 4.&nbsp; &nbsp;Law enforcement officers wrote a total of four citations for seat belt violations in the process.&nbsp; The campaign, which coincided with the Memorial Day holiday, combined increased enforcement and a zero-tolerance policy, with effective communication to road users on the importance of seat belt use.“This year’s Click It or Ticket campaign was a major success,” said Sgt. Cloyd. “Through our enforcement efforts, we believe we helped keep community members safe and reminded drivers of the importance of buckling up.&nbsp; Issuing tickets was not our goal, but it was a way to remind people of the importance of such a simple action.” Sgt. Cloyd also stated, “Seatbelt Violations are always a concern for the Chadron Police Department; enforcement action is taken on a daily basis if occupants of vehicles are stopped for a primary infraction and found to be in violation of the Nebraska seat belt laws.&nbsp; During our Click It or Ticket efforts Officers with the Chadron Police Department made a difference in driving habits through education and enforcement actions.&nbsp; A total of 68 stops were conducted,&nbsp; 45 Warnings and 23 Citations, for a variety of violations including, but not limited to, Head/Tail Light Violations, Failure to Yield Right of Way, Registration Violations, Stop Sign Violations, Driving While Suspended, Seat Belt Violations, and Speeding.”According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than half of the passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes in 2020 were unrestrained. During this year’s campaign, NHTSA urged law enforcement nationwide to issue seat belt citations to anyone caught in violation of the law — during the day, and especially at night, when 58% of those killed are unrestrained.The national seat belt use rate in 2021 was 90.4%. The Click It or Ticket campaign is focusing on the remaining 9.6% who still don’t buckle up. Thousands of lives could be saved each year if every person was properly restrained on the road. For more information on the Click It or Ticket mobilization, please visit www.nhtsa.gov/ciot.

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