By Panhandle Public Health District

The Nebraska Pharmacy Association in partnership with local pharmacies participating in the Statewide Naloxone Program continues to provide Narcan without a prescription and free of charge to Nebraska residents. Narcan 4mg (naloxone) is a life-saving nasal spray medication used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose.

In the Nebraska Panhandle, participating pharmacies include:

Alliance Community Pharmacy 315 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance 308-629-1045

Dave’s Pharmacy 223 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance 308-762-4811

Dave’s Pharmacy 508 Niobrara Avenue, Hemingford 308-487-5212

Nein Pharmacy 1012 Main Street, Bridgeport 308-262-1070

Sonny’s Pharmacy 310 Main Street, Bridgeport 308-262-0580

Chadron Safeway 230 Morehead Street, Chadron 308-432-2070

Our Town Pharmacy 733 2nd Street, Chappell 308-874-2428

Gering U-Save 1400 10th Street, Gering 308-436-2181

Stockmen’s Drug 116 N. Main Street, Gordon 308-282-1114

Community Pharmacy at Regional West 3911 Avenue B, St M-200 Scottsbluff 308-630-1900

As of March 31, 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that naloxone 4mg nasal spray will be available to purchase over-the-counter without a prescription. The manufacturer of Narcan (naloxone) nasal spray has yet to release a timeline for availability and pricing for over-the-counter purchase. We encourage Nebraska patients and caregivers to take advantage of the availability of no-cost Narcan.

Please visit the Stop Overdose Nebraska website at <a href="http://www.stopodne.com">www.stopodne.com</a> for more information and a list of all participating Nebraska pharmacies.

More information will be provided once available by the manufacturer on pricing and over-the-counter availability of Narcan.

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. Visit our website <a href="http://www.pphd.ne.gov">www.pphd.ne.gov</a>.

By Panhandle Public Health DistrictThe Nebraska Pharmacy Association in partnership with local pharmacies participating in the Statewide Naloxone Program continues to provide Narcan without a prescription and free of charge to Nebraska residents. Narcan 4mg (naloxone) is a life-saving nasal spray medication used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose.In the Nebraska Panhandle, participating pharmacies include:Alliance Community Pharmacy 315 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance 308-629-1045Dave’s Pharmacy 223 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance 308-762-4811Dave’s Pharmacy 508 Niobrara Avenue, Hemingford 308-487-5212Nein Pharmacy 1012 Main Street, Bridgeport 308-262-1070Sonny’s Pharmacy 310 Main Street, Bridgeport 308-262-0580Chadron Safeway 230 Morehead Street, Chadron 308-432-2070Our Town Pharmacy 733 2nd Street, Chappell 308-874-2428Gering U-Save 1400 10th Street, Gering 308-436-2181Stockmen’s Drug 116 N. Main Street, Gordon 308-282-1114Community Pharmacy at Regional West 3911 Avenue B, St M-200 Scottsbluff 308-630-1900As of March 31, 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that naloxone 4mg nasal spray will be available to purchase over-the-counter without a prescription. The manufacturer of Narcan (naloxone) nasal spray has yet to release a timeline for availability and pricing for over-the-counter purchase. We encourage Nebraska patients and caregivers to take advantage of the availability of no-cost Narcan. Please visit the Stop Overdose Nebraska website at <a href="http://www.stopodne.com">www.stopodne.com</a> for more information and a list of all participating Nebraska pharmacies.More information will be provided once available by the manufacturer on pricing and over-the-counter availability of Narcan.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. Visit our website <a href="http://www.pphd.ne.gov">www.pphd.ne.gov</a>.

Free narcan available in the Nebraska Panhandle

Eagle Radio will hold the "Sandhills Spring Showcase" on Saturday, April 22 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the West Side Event Center, west of Alliance.&nbsp;

The community can come enjoy vendors, food, cash bar and shopping.&nbsp;

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682043910905.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Radio will hold the "Sandhills Spring Showcase" on Saturday, April 22 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the West Side Event Center, west of Alliance.&nbsp;The community can come enjoy vendors, food, cash bar and shopping.&nbsp;

Eagle Radio 'Sandhills Spring Showcase' to be held this weekend 

NORTH PLATTE — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged kidnapping. Authorities found the missing 14-year-old girl safe.

Cameron Quintin, 26, Topeka, Kan., was taken into custody on requested charges of kidnapping and violation of child custody. He is being held in Shawnee County without bond.

On Wednesday morning, police reported 14-year-old Gertie Werkmeister was missing. She had last been seen wearing a light blue hooded sweat shirt and black sweatpants. She left Adams Middle School and met with a white male dressed in all black in his mid- to late-20s at the Rec Center.

Just after 10:30 a.m., the two&nbsp; left the Rec Center traveling eastbound on Francis Street in a dark-colored Toyota Tacoma with out-of-state plates.

The North Platte 911 Center issued a citywide RAVE alert to all cell phones and land lines registered with the Smart 911 system. The North Platte Police Department, along with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and the Nebraska State Patrol searched for her.&nbsp;The Topeka Police Department, The FBI, and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation assisted in the search.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682021004720.png" alt="Quintin / Shawnee County, Kan., photo" />
 <figcaption>Quintin / Shawnee County, Kan., photo</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged kidnapping. Authorities found the missing 14-year-old girl safe.Cameron Quintin, 26, Topeka, Kan., was taken into custody on requested charges of kidnapping and violation of child custody. He is being held in Shawnee County without bond.On Wednesday morning, police reported 14-year-old Gertie Werkmeister was missing. She had last been seen wearing a light blue hooded sweat shirt and black sweatpants. She left Adams Middle School and met with a white male dressed in all black in his mid- to late-20s at the Rec Center.Just after 10:30 a.m., the two&nbsp; left the Rec Center traveling eastbound on Francis Street in a dark-colored Toyota Tacoma with out-of-state plates.The North Platte 911 Center issued a citywide RAVE alert to all cell phones and land lines registered with the Smart 911 system. The North Platte Police Department, along with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and the Nebraska State Patrol searched for her.&nbsp;The Topeka Police Department, The FBI, and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation assisted in the search.

Kansas man accused of kidnapping North Platte teen

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific railroad delivered flat profit in the first quarter as weather slowed trains across the western United States and inflation drove costs up, but executives are optimistic about their ability to handle all the goods companies want to ship the rest of the year as more new employees are completing training.

The Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad said it earned $1.63 billion, or $2.67 per share, in the first quarter. That's in line with last year's $1.63 billion profit but higher per share than last year's $2.57 because the railroad has been steadily buying back its shares.

The results topped the average Wall Street forecast for earnings of $2.57 per share, according to the eight analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research.

CEO Lance Fritz said he’s confident the railroad will continue to get more efficient this year.

The railroad maintained its guidance for the number of carloads it carries to grow more than industrial production, but in a reflection of the concerns about the economy amid increasing interest rates, Union Pacific said the current forecast calls for industrial production to shrink 0.7% this year. Volume was down about 1% in the first quarter.

But Fritz said the railroad isn't planning on a recession at this point.

Safety has been a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailments-tank-car-ohio-minnesota-c60f33b64e9c7dc05768a78ae20f3ce5">key focus</a>&nbsp;for the industry ever since a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pennsylvania-ohio-evacuations-fires-5d399dc745f51ef746e22828083d8591">fiery Norfolk Southern derailment</a>&nbsp;in Ohio in February, so Union Pacific officials highlighted some of the ways it uses technology to help prevent accidents like its network of more than 7,000 trackside detectors that help spot equipment problems. Union Pacific said its rate of derailments per every million miles is down 10% over the past year, but Fritz said his railroad and the rest of the industry will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-ohio-derailment-hazardous-materials-74d7aec638500c52d1eb9fda0acf9f26">keep working</a>&nbsp;to improve safety.

Regulators and members of Congress are considering&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-congress-6288cdfb0b4381de4c9bfb05199b8ba6">requiring railroads</a>&nbsp;to take additional steps. Fritz said the railroad is working with them to focus on measures that will make the greatest difference. He said he doesn't think a proposed limit on train length or a requirement to maintain two-person crews would improve safety, but creating rules for those trackside detectors and speeding up planned tank car upgrades do make sense.

“There’s a number of areas where Congress and the FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) can work that would have a bona fide, real impact on safety,” Fritz said. "But every derailment is one we need to avoid — whatever the cause — so that’s what we’re focused on is making sure that we’re constantly finding ways to improve our safety record and keep the communities that we serve safe.”

Edward Jones analyst Jeff Windau said there clearly is going to be a “lot of scrutiny” on safety this year, and the railroads may face some new regulations.

Union Pacific's revenue grew 3% to $6.056 billion as the railroad collected higher fuel surcharges and raised its core rates. Plus, there was a one-time $107 million gain on a real estate sale. Five analysts surveyed by Zacks expected $6.07 billion.

But expenses up 8% to $3.76 billion as inflation and the new contract railroads agreed to with their workers last year pushed up the cost of fuel, materials and wages.

Union Pacific said the number of workers it employed grew 4% to 31,471 in the quarter after it has been hiring aggressively over the past year to help it improve service. Shippers have been complaining about delayed deliveries and poor service that the railroad blamed mostly on a lack of train crews and other employees.

Windau said investors will be watching for progress in UP's efforts to find a new CEO. Fritz said the board is working with a consultant to find his replacement, but he didn't offer any update on the timing of that decision.

Union Pacific is one of the nation's largest railroads and its trains operate across more than 30,000 miles of track in 23 western states.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific railroad delivered flat profit in the first quarter as weather slowed trains across the western United States and inflation drove costs up, but executives are optimistic about their ability to handle all the goods companies want to ship the rest of the year as more new employees are completing training.The Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad said it earned $1.63 billion, or $2.67 per share, in the first quarter. That's in line with last year's $1.63 billion profit but higher per share than last year's $2.57 because the railroad has been steadily buying back its shares.The results topped the average Wall Street forecast for earnings of $2.57 per share, according to the eight analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research.CEO Lance Fritz said he’s confident the railroad will continue to get more efficient this year.The railroad maintained its guidance for the number of carloads it carries to grow more than industrial production, but in a reflection of the concerns about the economy amid increasing interest rates, Union Pacific said the current forecast calls for industrial production to shrink 0.7% this year. Volume was down about 1% in the first quarter.But Fritz said the railroad isn't planning on a recession at this point.Safety has been a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailments-tank-car-ohio-minnesota-c60f33b64e9c7dc05768a78ae20f3ce5">key focus</a>&nbsp;for the industry ever since a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pennsylvania-ohio-evacuations-fires-5d399dc745f51ef746e22828083d8591">fiery Norfolk Southern derailment</a>&nbsp;in Ohio in February, so Union Pacific officials highlighted some of the ways it uses technology to help prevent accidents like its network of more than 7,000 trackside detectors that help spot equipment problems. Union Pacific said its rate of derailments per every million miles is down 10% over the past year, but Fritz said his railroad and the rest of the industry will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-ohio-derailment-hazardous-materials-74d7aec638500c52d1eb9fda0acf9f26">keep working</a>&nbsp;to improve safety.Regulators and members of Congress are considering&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-congress-6288cdfb0b4381de4c9bfb05199b8ba6">requiring railroads</a>&nbsp;to take additional steps. Fritz said the railroad is working with them to focus on measures that will make the greatest difference. He said he doesn't think a proposed limit on train length or a requirement to maintain two-person crews would improve safety, but creating rules for those trackside detectors and speeding up planned tank car upgrades do make sense.“There’s a number of areas where Congress and the FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) can work that would have a bona fide, real impact on safety,” Fritz said. "But every derailment is one we need to avoid — whatever the cause — so that’s what we’re focused on is making sure that we’re constantly finding ways to improve our safety record and keep the communities that we serve safe.”Edward Jones analyst Jeff Windau said there clearly is going to be a “lot of scrutiny” on safety this year, and the railroads may face some new regulations.Union Pacific's revenue grew 3% to $6.056 billion as the railroad collected higher fuel surcharges and raised its core rates. Plus, there was a one-time $107 million gain on a real estate sale. Five analysts surveyed by Zacks expected $6.07 billion.But expenses up 8% to $3.76 billion as inflation and the new contract railroads agreed to with their workers last year pushed up the cost of fuel, materials and wages.Union Pacific said the number of workers it employed grew 4% to 31,471 in the quarter after it has been hiring aggressively over the past year to help it improve service. Shippers have been complaining about delayed deliveries and poor service that the railroad blamed mostly on a lack of train crews and other employees.Windau said investors will be watching for progress in UP's efforts to find a new CEO. Fritz said the board is working with a consultant to find his replacement, but he didn't offer any update on the timing of that decision.Union Pacific is one of the nation's largest railroads and its trains operate across more than 30,000 miles of track in 23 western states.

Union Pacific's 1Q profit flat as inflation drives costs up

On Tuesday, April 18 at approximately 10:20 p.m. Chadron police were dispatched to investigate the unattended death of 35-year-old Samantha McCoy of Chadron.&nbsp;

McCoy was found to be unresponsive at her family home by family members who immediately called 911

After an investigation of the scene, evidence at the scene, and interviews of witnesses, the Dawes County Attorney/Coroner was contacted to review the initial findings and to assist in the investigation.&nbsp;

The coroner then ordered an autospy and toxicological screening.&nbsp;

"The preliminary findings indicate that foul play is not suspected at this juncture, though the investigation into the specific cause of death continues," Dawes County Attorney/Coroner Vance Haug said.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostOn Tuesday, April 18 at approximately 10:20 p.m. Chadron police were dispatched to investigate the unattended death of 35-year-old Samantha McCoy of Chadron.&nbsp;McCoy was found to be unresponsive at her family home by family members who immediately called 911After an investigation of the scene, evidence at the scene, and interviews of witnesses, the Dawes County Attorney/Coroner was contacted to review the initial findings and to assist in the investigation.&nbsp;The coroner then ordered an autospy and toxicological screening.&nbsp;"The preliminary findings indicate that foul play is not suspected at this juncture, though the investigation into the specific cause of death continues," Dawes County Attorney/Coroner Vance Haug said.&nbsp;

Chadron police, Dawes Co. Attorney/Coroner investigate death 

News Release in conjunction with Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District

The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) has extended the Private Well Reverse Osmosis Rebate Program. The initial application period opened January 1, 2023 and closed March 31, 2023. Upon reaching the initial close date of March 31, 2023, NDEE received 92 applications requesting $211,071 of the $1.2 million allocated to the program, so funding remains available. Applications will now be accepted and reviewed for consideration on a month-to-month basis. Submitted applications will be given equal consideration as long as funding for the program remains available in the month in which the application is submitted.&nbsp;Participation in the rebate program still requires pre-approval from NDEE. The installation of any reverse osmosis small water treatment system cannot begin until a rebate agreement is signed between the private well owner and NDEE. Private well reverse osmosis system rebates are available to property owners of private wells with drinking water test levels above 10 parts per million (ppm) of nitrate. Applicants will be eligible for up to $4,000 in rebates per small treatment installation that is effective in the removal of nitrate to a level below 10 ppm. Testing costs, purchase price of the system, and installation costs are eligible expenses that can be included in a rebate application. This rebate program is being funded through $1.2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which is part of a larger $4 million ARPA initiative administered by NDEE as authorized by the 2022 Legislature. Applicants will need to ensure that their well is registered with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.&nbsp;A&nbsp;water well registration document can be downloaded from the Department of Natural Resources website at this address:&nbsp;<a href="https://nednr.nebraska.gov/dynamic/Wells/Wells">https://nednr.nebraska.gov/dynamic/Wells/Wells</a> Applicants will be required to submit water quality data from the State laboratory with testing results dated no earlier than January 1, 2022. Testing is available to any private citizen in the state at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraska.gov/dhhs/water-test-kits/private.html">https://www.nebraska.gov/dhhs/water-test-kits/private.html</a>. Applications from property owners will also be required to contain a cost estimate for the installation of a reverse osmosis treatment device certified by the American National Standards Institute. That cost estimate must come from a licensed plumber or an entity that has performed at least five successful Private Well Reverse Osmosis Small Water Treatment installations. NDEE will disperse approved rebates following successful installation and demonstration of effective removal of nitrate to a level below 10 ppm. Follow-up testing will need to be submitted to the department to demonstrate successful removal of nitrate to a level below 10 ppm. Installations and follow-up testing need to be completed by September 30, 2024. All requirements for the Reverse Osmosis Rebate Program, including the application forms and an instructional video, can be found on NDEE’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://dee.ne.gov/Publica.nsf/pages/22-051">http://dee.ne.gov/Publica.nsf/pages/22-051</a>.&nbsp;Inquiries can also be made to NDEE State Revolving Fund Section Supervisor Steve McNulty at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:steve.mcnulty@nebraska.gov">steve.mcnulty@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-4200.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News Release in conjunction with Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources DistrictThe Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) has extended the Private Well Reverse Osmosis Rebate Program. The initial application period opened January 1, 2023 and closed March 31, 2023. Upon reaching the initial close date of March 31, 2023, NDEE received 92 applications requesting $211,071 of the $1.2 million allocated to the program, so funding remains available. Applications will now be accepted and reviewed for consideration on a month-to-month basis. Submitted applications will be given equal consideration as long as funding for the program remains available in the month in which the application is submitted.&nbsp;Participation in the rebate program still requires pre-approval from NDEE. The installation of any reverse osmosis small water treatment system cannot begin until a rebate agreement is signed between the private well owner and NDEE. Private well reverse osmosis system rebates are available to property owners of private wells with drinking water test levels above 10 parts per million (ppm) of nitrate. Applicants will be eligible for up to $4,000 in rebates per small treatment installation that is effective in the removal of nitrate to a level below 10 ppm. Testing costs, purchase price of the system, and installation costs are eligible expenses that can be included in a rebate application. This rebate program is being funded through $1.2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which is part of a larger $4 million ARPA initiative administered by NDEE as authorized by the 2022 Legislature. Applicants will need to ensure that their well is registered with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.&nbsp;A&nbsp;water well registration document can be downloaded from the Department of Natural Resources website at this address:&nbsp;<a href="https://nednr.nebraska.gov/dynamic/Wells/Wells">https://nednr.nebraska.gov/dynamic/Wells/Wells</a> Applicants will be required to submit water quality data from the State laboratory with testing results dated no earlier than January 1, 2022. Testing is available to any private citizen in the state at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraska.gov/dhhs/water-test-kits/private.html">https://www.nebraska.gov/dhhs/water-test-kits/private.html</a>. Applications from property owners will also be required to contain a cost estimate for the installation of a reverse osmosis treatment device certified by the American National Standards Institute. That cost estimate must come from a licensed plumber or an entity that has performed at least five successful Private Well Reverse Osmosis Small Water Treatment installations. NDEE will disperse approved rebates following successful installation and demonstration of effective removal of nitrate to a level below 10 ppm. Follow-up testing will need to be submitted to the department to demonstrate successful removal of nitrate to a level below 10 ppm. Installations and follow-up testing need to be completed by September 30, 2024. All requirements for the Reverse Osmosis Rebate Program, including the application forms and an instructional video, can be found on NDEE’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://dee.ne.gov/Publica.nsf/pages/22-051">http://dee.ne.gov/Publica.nsf/pages/22-051</a>.&nbsp;Inquiries can also be made to NDEE State Revolving Fund Section Supervisor Steve McNulty at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:steve.mcnulty@nebraska.gov">steve.mcnulty@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-4200.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NDEE extends Private Well Reverse Osmosis Rebate Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE)&nbsp;spoke on&nbsp;the Senate&nbsp;floor&nbsp;about&nbsp;the ongoing&nbsp;drug crisis&nbsp;that continues to kill&nbsp;Americans.

“In 2021,106,000 Americans died of a drug overdose&nbsp;–&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;70,000 because of fentanyl,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts. “Now, let's think about if a terrorist attacked our country and killed 106,000 Americans.&nbsp;We'd be up in arms! We’d be mobilizing the country, and yet,&nbsp;we do not see that response from the Biden administration.”

In addition to his support for stronger border security measures and adequate resources for law enforcement and Border Patrol agents, Ricketts also announced he had co-sponsored two pieces of legislation to directly address the fentanyl crisis. &nbsp;

“Unbelievably, if you distribute fentanyl and it kills somebody, that's not a murder charge,”&nbsp;Ricketts added. “However, I'm proud to&nbsp;cosponsor&nbsp;Senator Marco Rubio's bill, the Felony Murder for Deadly Fentanyl Distribution Act, that would make it a federal felony murder charge to distribute fentanyl and then have somebody die from it. This is a very serious crime that's going on,&nbsp;and it needs serious consequences. We need to make this a felony murder charge. And let me tell you, the families are asking for this.”

“One of the other things that we periodically do here, is we put fentanyl on the Schedule 1 drug list. But it's temporary, we need to make that permanent,”&nbsp;Ricketts continued.&nbsp;“We know fentanyl and the&nbsp;analogues&nbsp;are dangerous and need to be Schedule 1 drugs that have no medical purpose… That's why I've co-sponsored Senator Johnson’s&nbsp;Stopping Overdoses of Fentanyl Analogues Act,&nbsp;otherwise known as SOFA.”

Learn more about Rubio’s bill&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/2/rubio-colleagues-demand-felony-murder-charges-for-distribution-of-deadly-fentanyl#:~:text=The%20bill%20makes%20the%20distribution,major%20producer%20of%20illegal%20drugs." target="_blank">here</a>. Learn more about Johnson’s bill&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/2023/3/sen-johnson-leads-effort-to-pass-legislation-combatting-opioid-epidemic" target="_blank">here</a>.

Watch the video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyrFebRSfmw">HERE</a>.

TRANSCRIPT OF RICKETTS’ FLOOR REMARKS

I rise today to join my colleagues who are continuing to sound the alarm about the ongoing drug crisis that we have here in our country. I will reiterate what my colleagues said with regard to the leading cause of death of Americans aged 18 to 45 today, which is fentanyl. In 2021,106,000 Americans died of a drug overdose – nearly 70,000 because of fentanyl.

Now, let's think about if a terrorist attacked our country and killed 106,000 Americans. We'd be up in arms! We’d be mobilizing the country, and yet, we do not see that response from the Biden administration.

Fentanyl is a drug that is coming to us from across the border. The precursors of it are manufactured in China, and shipped to Mexico where the cartels, in illegal labs, create the fentanyl that they ship across the border. And when it comes across the border, it does not stay there. It goes all across our country.

The last two years, I was Governor, the first two years of the Biden administration, we saw an increase of the drugs, the Nebraska State Patrol was confiscating go up dramatically. We saw twice the amount of methamphetamine confiscated, three times the amount of fentanyl, and ten times the amount of cocaine. In 2019, Nebraska law enforcement confiscated 46 pills. In the first six months of 2021, that number had grown to 151,000 pills confiscated. Unbelievable. 

It's killing people in my state as it is across the country. I've talked on this floor before about Taryn Lee Griffith, a 24-year-old mom of two. She was out with friends when she took a pill, which she thought was Percocet, but it was laced with a lethal dose of fentanyl. She died that night. Now her two little girls are going to have to learn about their mom through pictures and stories from family.

This is shameful and it must end. It's impacting people all across this country. As I've said before on this floor: if this is not our job, to fix this, I don't know what is. 

Well, first of all, we can address the southern border. I've had the opportunity to go to the southern border several times. When I talk to Customs and Border Patrol officials, they tell us they need three things. They need infrastructure. Build a wall. They need more technology, like better drones. And they need more personnel. This Congress needs to provide the Customs and Border Patrol the resources they need to be able to stop the flow of drugs coming into this country.

Another thing we can do. Unbelievably, if you distribute fentanyl and it kills somebody, that's not a murder charge. However, I'm proud to cosponsor Senator Marco Rubio's bill, the Felony Murder for Deadly Fentanyl Distribution Act, that would make it a federal felony murder charge to distribute fentanyl and then have somebody die from it. This is a very serious crime that's going on, and it needs serious consequences. We need to make this a felony murder charge. And let me tell you, the families are asking for this.

One of the other things that we periodically do here, is we put fentanyl on the Schedule 1 drug list. But it's temporary, we need to make that permanent. We know fentanyl and the analogues are dangerous and need to be Schedule 1 drugs that have no medical purpose. So, let's do that. That's why I've co-sponsored Senator Johnson’s Stopping Overdoses of Fentanyl Analogues Act, otherwise known as SOFA.

This is a drug crisis. It is killing our young people in this nation. I call on my colleagues to act to take these steps to combat this crisis. Too many Americans are dying because of what is going on. We need to act. And with that, Madam President, I yield back. 

By Office of Sen. Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE)&nbsp;spoke on&nbsp;the Senate&nbsp;floor&nbsp;about&nbsp;the ongoing&nbsp;drug crisis&nbsp;that continues to kill&nbsp;Americans.“In 2021,106,000 Americans died of a drug overdose&nbsp;–&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;70,000 because of fentanyl,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts. “Now, let's think about if a terrorist attacked our country and killed 106,000 Americans.&nbsp;We'd be up in arms! We’d be mobilizing the country, and yet,&nbsp;we do not see that response from the Biden administration.”In addition to his support for stronger border security measures and adequate resources for law enforcement and Border Patrol agents, Ricketts also announced he had co-sponsored two pieces of legislation to directly address the fentanyl crisis. &nbsp;“Unbelievably, if you distribute fentanyl and it kills somebody, that's not a murder charge,”&nbsp;Ricketts added. “However, I'm proud to&nbsp;cosponsor&nbsp;Senator Marco Rubio's bill, the Felony Murder for Deadly Fentanyl Distribution Act, that would make it a federal felony murder charge to distribute fentanyl and then have somebody die from it. This is a very serious crime that's going on,&nbsp;and it needs serious consequences. We need to make this a felony murder charge. And let me tell you, the families are asking for this.”“One of the other things that we periodically do here, is we put fentanyl on the Schedule 1 drug list. But it's temporary, we need to make that permanent,”&nbsp;Ricketts continued.&nbsp;“We know fentanyl and the&nbsp;analogues&nbsp;are dangerous and need to be Schedule 1 drugs that have no medical purpose… That's why I've co-sponsored Senator Johnson’s&nbsp;Stopping Overdoses of Fentanyl Analogues Act,&nbsp;otherwise known as SOFA.”Learn more about Rubio’s bill&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/2/rubio-colleagues-demand-felony-murder-charges-for-distribution-of-deadly-fentanyl#:~:text=The%20bill%20makes%20the%20distribution,major%20producer%20of%20illegal%20drugs." target="_blank">here</a>. Learn more about Johnson’s bill&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/2023/3/sen-johnson-leads-effort-to-pass-legislation-combatting-opioid-epidemic" target="_blank">here</a>.Watch the video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyrFebRSfmw">HERE</a>.TRANSCRIPT OF RICKETTS’ FLOOR REMARKSThank you very much, Madam President.I rise today to join my colleagues who are continuing to sound the alarm about the ongoing drug crisis that we have here in our country. I will reiterate what my colleagues said with regard to the leading cause of death of Americans aged 18 to 45 today, which is fentanyl. In 2021,106,000 Americans died of a drug overdose – nearly 70,000 because of fentanyl.Now, let's think about if a terrorist attacked our country and killed 106,000 Americans. We'd be up in arms! We’d be mobilizing the country, and yet, we do not see that response from the Biden administration.Fentanyl is a drug that is coming to us from across the border. The precursors of it are manufactured in China, and shipped to Mexico where the cartels, in illegal labs, create the fentanyl that they ship across the border. And when it comes across the border, it does not stay there. It goes all across our country.The last two years, I was Governor, the first two years of the Biden administration, we saw an increase of the drugs, the Nebraska State Patrol was confiscating go up dramatically. We saw twice the amount of methamphetamine confiscated, three times the amount of fentanyl, and ten times the amount of cocaine. In 2019, Nebraska law enforcement confiscated 46 pills. In the first six months of 2021, that number had grown to 151,000 pills confiscated. Unbelievable. It's killing people in my state as it is across the country. I've talked on this floor before about Taryn Lee Griffith, a 24-year-old mom of two. She was out with friends when she took a pill, which she thought was Percocet, but it was laced with a lethal dose of fentanyl. She died that night. Now her two little girls are going to have to learn about their mom through pictures and stories from family.This is shameful and it must end. It's impacting people all across this country. As I've said before on this floor: if this is not our job, to fix this, I don't know what is. So, what more can we do?Well, first of all, we can address the southern border. I've had the opportunity to go to the southern border several times. When I talk to Customs and Border Patrol officials, they tell us they need three things. They need infrastructure. Build a wall. They need more technology, like better drones. And they need more personnel. This Congress needs to provide the Customs and Border Patrol the resources they need to be able to stop the flow of drugs coming into this country.Another thing we can do. Unbelievably, if you distribute fentanyl and it kills somebody, that's not a murder charge. However, I'm proud to cosponsor Senator Marco Rubio's bill, the Felony Murder for Deadly Fentanyl Distribution Act, that would make it a federal felony murder charge to distribute fentanyl and then have somebody die from it. This is a very serious crime that's going on, and it needs serious consequences. We need to make this a felony murder charge. And let me tell you, the families are asking for this.One of the other things that we periodically do here, is we put fentanyl on the Schedule 1 drug list. But it's temporary, we need to make that permanent. We know fentanyl and the analogues are dangerous and need to be Schedule 1 drugs that have no medical purpose. So, let's do that. That's why I've co-sponsored Senator Johnson’s Stopping Overdoses of Fentanyl Analogues Act, otherwise known as SOFA.This is a drug crisis. It is killing our young people in this nation. I call on my colleagues to act to take these steps to combat this crisis. Too many Americans are dying because of what is going on. We need to act. And with that, Madam President, I yield back.

VIDEO: Ricketts outlines solutions to combat drug crisis on the Senate floor

A Nebraska man will serve 14 - 20 years in the Nebraska Department of Corrections. 

Box Butte County District Judge Travis P. O'Gorman sentenced 22-year-old Dalton D. Rasmussen of St. Edwards on April 7 for Motor Vehicle Homicide (Class IIA Felony) and a fifteen year revocation of motor vehicle operator's license; Driving Under the Influence - 1st Offense (Class W Misdemeanor) with a term of 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, a six month revocation of motor vehicle operator's license, and Reckless Driving (Class III Misdemeanor) with a term of three months in jail. 

On Nov. 19/Nov. 20, 2021 Rasmussen unintentionally caused the death of 35-year-old Kyle Edwards of Hay Springs in a motor vehicle accident. 

According to the Court Affidavit, on Nov. 20, 2021 at 12:09 a.m. the Nebraska State Patrol dispatch was contacted to a report of a two vehicle crash on Highway 87 near mile marker 23. "Further details were given that one pick up was on fire and that a 'wife [Destiny P. Fortin] was attempting to find her husband'". 

Fortin [Edwards wife] was traveling behind Edwards and came across the accident. 

Deputy Zywiec of Sheridan County Sheriff's Office advised there were two males, identified as Dalton D. Rasmussen and Ty R. Borer that were occupants of the gold 2006 Chevrolet pickup that was on fire. 

Zyiec found Edwards deceased in a red Nissan Juke. 

Zyiec advised that Rasmussen and Borer were in Fortin's vehicle, a blue Subaru Outback, and they had attempted to flee the scene of the accident in Fortin's vehicle, but were stopped by a witness named Myron Goode. 

The Nissan driven by Edwards was found facing east in the east ditch on Highway 87. After impact of the accident, the Nissan appeared to have traveled east from the area of impact into the east ditch where it came to final rest. There was significant front and drive side damage to the car. The top of the Nissan had been pulled back and the cab was completely open. 

The County Affidavit said, Nebraska State Patrol trooper Lucas Gleisberg continued through the accident scene and observed the area of imact (collison area of both vehicles) to be in the northbound lane near the fog line. Gleisberg determined this area as the area of impact due to the multiple gouge marks in the roadway as well as the oil and debris field that was located near this area. The Nissan was traveling northbound and the pickup was traveling southbound. 

The Chevrolet pickup had crossed the centerline and struck the northbound Nissan in the northbound lane. 

Gleisberg inspected the Chevrolet pickup. The pickup was facing southwest in the southbound lane of Highway 87, was on fire, and had been completely burned. The front right side of the vehicle sustained significant damage. The front driver's side of the pickup had been pushed back into the driver's side cab of the pickup and significant damage was found left of the steering wheel in the location of where a driver's left leg would rest. The damage of the pickup was so significant it offset the cab from the flat bed of the pickup. 

There were no indications of seatbelt use found within the vehicle and it was unknown if the airbags were deployed due to the vehicle catching fire. 

Gleisberg observed two male occumpants in Fortin's vehicle. Rasmussen was sitting in the front passenger seat. When Rasmussen spoke, his speech was slurred. He had a severe injury to his left leg and was actively being treated by EMS personnel. Borer had no apparent injuries. 

Deputy Zywiec, Box Butte County Deputies Walls and Hjersman detected the odor of alcohol emiting from both Rasmussen and Borer. They both had slurred speech. 

Rasmussen and Borer were then transported to Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance for injuries and legal blood draws. 

On Dec. 8, 2021, blood test results were released from Nebraska Health and Human Servcies laboratory, indicating Rasmussen's blood alcohol level was .074 in the hours following the accident on Nov. 20. 

Rasmussen will be eligible for parole in seven years and mandatory discharge in ten years. 

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostA Nebraska man will serve 14 - 20 years in the Nebraska Department of Corrections. Box Butte County District Judge Travis P. O'Gorman sentenced 22-year-old Dalton D. Rasmussen of St. Edwards on April 7 for Motor Vehicle Homicide (Class IIA Felony) and a fifteen year revocation of motor vehicle operator's license; Driving Under the Influence - 1st Offense (Class W Misdemeanor) with a term of 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, a six month revocation of motor vehicle operator's license, and Reckless Driving (Class III Misdemeanor) with a term of three months in jail. On Nov. 19/Nov. 20, 2021 Rasmussen unintentionally caused the death of 35-year-old Kyle Edwards of Hay Springs in a motor vehicle accident. According to the Court Affidavit, on Nov. 20, 2021 at 12:09 a.m. the Nebraska State Patrol dispatch was contacted to a report of a two vehicle crash on Highway 87 near mile marker 23. "Further details were given that one pick up was on fire and that a 'wife [Destiny P. Fortin] was attempting to find her husband'". Fortin [Edwards wife] was traveling behind Edwards and came across the accident. Deputy Zywiec of Sheridan County Sheriff's Office advised there were two males, identified as Dalton D. Rasmussen and Ty R. Borer that were occupants of the gold 2006 Chevrolet pickup that was on fire. Zyiec found Edwards deceased in a red Nissan Juke. Zyiec advised that Rasmussen and Borer were in Fortin's vehicle, a blue Subaru Outback, and they had attempted to flee the scene of the accident in Fortin's vehicle, but were stopped by a witness named Myron Goode. The Nissan driven by Edwards was found facing east in the east ditch on Highway 87. After impact of the accident, the Nissan appeared to have traveled east from the area of impact into the east ditch where it came to final rest. There was significant front and drive side damage to the car. The top of the Nissan had been pulled back and the cab was completely open. The County Affidavit said, Nebraska State Patrol trooper Lucas Gleisberg continued through the accident scene and observed the area of imact (collison area of both vehicles) to be in the northbound lane near the fog line. Gleisberg determined this area as the area of impact due to the multiple gouge marks in the roadway as well as the oil and debris field that was located near this area. The Nissan was traveling northbound and the pickup was traveling southbound. The Chevrolet pickup had crossed the centerline and struck the northbound Nissan in the northbound lane. Gleisberg inspected the Chevrolet pickup. The pickup was facing southwest in the southbound lane of Highway 87, was on fire, and had been completely burned. The front right side of the vehicle sustained significant damage. The front driver's side of the pickup had been pushed back into the driver's side cab of the pickup and significant damage was found left of the steering wheel in the location of where a driver's left leg would rest. The damage of the pickup was so significant it offset the cab from the flat bed of the pickup. There were no indications of seatbelt use found within the vehicle and it was unknown if the airbags were deployed due to the vehicle catching fire. Gleisberg observed two male occumpants in Fortin's vehicle. Rasmussen was sitting in the front passenger seat. When Rasmussen spoke, his speech was slurred. He had a severe injury to his left leg and was actively being treated by EMS personnel. Borer had no apparent injuries. Deputy Zywiec, Box Butte County Deputies Walls and Hjersman detected the odor of alcohol emiting from both Rasmussen and Borer. They both had slurred speech. Rasmussen and Borer were then transported to Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance for injuries and legal blood draws. On Dec. 8, 2021, blood test results were released from Nebraska Health and Human Servcies laboratory, indicating Rasmussen's blood alcohol level was .074 in the hours following the accident on Nov. 20. Rasmussen will be eligible for parole in seven years and mandatory discharge in ten years.

Nebraska man sentenced in Box Butte Co. motor vehicle homicide 

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Bridges Out of Poverty is a national program which helps us understand the situations being faced by those who live in poverty. Our task force, along with Panhandle Partnership, has brought four Bridges Out of Poverty programs to our area, each with a different focus. Bridges has presented us with strategies to prevent, reduce, and alleviate individual and community instability.

The four Bridges workshops began in June, 2021, with Individual Lens, where we learned about the lack of resources, hidden rules of economic class, and how those in poverty cope. The following October we moved to Institutional Lens, where organizations and agencies learned strategies designed to help them understand and meet the needs of those who face problems like food insecurity and tyranny of the moment. Community Lens was offered in June, 2022. Here community leaders were invited to understand how different economic classes function in our towns and how we can work together to lift more people out of poverty. Last October our final program was Policy Lens, where we talked about government policies and how they affect those needing the social safety net, but whose voices are seldom heard.

This June we are excited to announce that we are offering another Bridges Out of Poverty program - Train the Trainer. This program will be facilitated by national trainers, and we are excited to bring it to Western Nebraska! People who complete this three-day course will be certified by the aha!Process, the parent company of Bridges Out of Poverty. They will be prepared to present Bridges: Individual Lens and Community Lens workshops to individuals in their own communities and organizations.

The workshop will be offered at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, 908 Yellowstone Avenue in Alliance, June 6-8. Sessions will begin at 8:30 am and end at 3:30 each day, and lunch will be provided.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding about the strategies and processes used in Bridges programs. They'll network with others who are passionate about ending or alleviating poverty in our area. And they'll develop effective poverty reduction strategies that meet the needs of our organizations and our communities. Comprehensive research and training materials will be provided.

Participants must have attended at least one of the previous Bridges programs. Those who were unable to attend may sign up for an online class at https://www.ahaprocess.com/on-demand/.

The fee for the Bridges: Train the Trainer workshop is $995 per person. If your organization does not have this kind of training budget, contact Karen Benzel at United Way, kbenzel@uwwn.org. Group discounts and scholarships are available! Registration is at

https://panhandlepartnership.com/events/category/training/. Please reach out if you are interested in learning more or if you think you might like to attend.

As we see more economic disparity in our area, we have to realize that we all come from different backgrounds and have different types of problems and different skills. Through the Bridges training, there will be a pool of people who will be able to work with the staff of local agencies. Organizations will be able to call us to have training sessions or to help trouble-shoot problem situations. What this means for our area is that our communities can become stronger.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityBridges Out of Poverty is a national program which helps us understand the situations being faced by those who live in poverty. Our task force, along with Panhandle Partnership, has brought four Bridges Out of Poverty programs to our area, each with a different focus. Bridges has presented us with strategies to prevent, reduce, and alleviate individual and community instability.The four Bridges workshops began in June, 2021, with Individual Lens, where we learned about the lack of resources, hidden rules of economic class, and how those in poverty cope. The following October we moved to Institutional Lens, where organizations and agencies learned strategies designed to help them understand and meet the needs of those who face problems like food insecurity and tyranny of the moment. Community Lens was offered in June, 2022. Here community leaders were invited to understand how different economic classes function in our towns and how we can work together to lift more people out of poverty. Last October our final program was Policy Lens, where we talked about government policies and how they affect those needing the social safety net, but whose voices are seldom heard.This June we are excited to announce that we are offering another Bridges Out of Poverty program - Train the Trainer. This program will be facilitated by national trainers, and we are excited to bring it to Western Nebraska! People who complete this three-day course will be certified by the aha!Process, the parent company of Bridges Out of Poverty. They will be prepared to present Bridges: Individual Lens and Community Lens workshops to individuals in their own communities and organizations.The workshop will be offered at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, 908 Yellowstone Avenue in Alliance, June 6-8. Sessions will begin at 8:30 am and end at 3:30 each day, and lunch will be provided.Participants will gain a deeper understanding about the strategies and processes used in Bridges programs. They'll network with others who are passionate about ending or alleviating poverty in our area. And they'll develop effective poverty reduction strategies that meet the needs of our organizations and our communities. Comprehensive research and training materials will be provided.Participants must have attended at least one of the previous Bridges programs. Those who were unable to attend may sign up for an online class at https://www.ahaprocess.com/on-demand/.The fee for the Bridges: Train the Trainer workshop is $995 per person. If your organization does not have this kind of training budget, contact Karen Benzel at United Way, kbenzel@uwwn.org. Group discounts and scholarships are available! Registration is athttps://panhandlepartnership.com/events/category/training/. Please reach out if you are interested in learning more or if you think you might like to attend.As we see more economic disparity in our area, we have to realize that we all come from different backgrounds and have different types of problems and different skills. Through the Bridges training, there will be a pool of people who will be able to work with the staff of local agencies. Organizations will be able to call us to have training sessions or to help trouble-shoot problem situations. What this means for our area is that our communities can become stronger.

Getting Ahead: Bridges - Train the trainer

**UPDATE: Gertie has been located and is safe. Thank you to everyone who helped spread the word and provided information. 

Cameron Quintin, 26, Topeka, Kan., was taken into custody for kidnapping and violation of child custody. He is being held without bond. The North Platte Police Department was assisted by the Topeka Police Department, The FBI, and the Kansas Bureau of Investigations.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE —On Wednesday morning, 14-year-old Gertie Werkmeister — last seen wearing a light blue hooded sweat shirt and black sweatpants — left Adams Middle School and met with a white male dressed in all black in his mid- to late-20s at the Rec Center. 

The two then left the Rec Center at 10:42 a.m. traveling eastbound on Francis Street in a dark-colored Toyota Tacoma with out-of-state plates. 

The North Platte 911 Center has issued a citywide RAVE alert to all cell phones and land lines registered with the Smart 911 system. The North Platte Police Department, along with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and NSP, are actively trying to locate Gertie. 

Anyone with information on Gertie’s whereabouts is asked to contact the North Platte Police Department at (308) 535-6789 or Lincoln County Crime Stoppers at (308) 534-8400.&nbsp;

North Platte Post**UPDATE: Gertie has been located and is safe. Thank you to everyone who helped spread the word and provided information. Cameron Quintin, 26, Topeka, Kan., was taken into custody for kidnapping and violation of child custody. He is being held without bond. The North Platte Police Department was assisted by the Topeka Police Department, The FBI, and the Kansas Bureau of Investigations.&nbsp;-----NORTH PLATTE —On Wednesday morning, 14-year-old Gertie Werkmeister — last seen wearing a light blue hooded sweat shirt and black sweatpants — left Adams Middle School and met with a white male dressed in all black in his mid- to late-20s at the Rec Center. The two then left the Rec Center at 10:42 a.m. traveling eastbound on Francis Street in a dark-colored Toyota Tacoma with out-of-state plates. The North Platte 911 Center has issued a citywide RAVE alert to all cell phones and land lines registered with the Smart 911 system. The North Platte Police Department, along with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and NSP, are actively trying to locate Gertie. Anyone with information on Gertie’s whereabouts is asked to contact the North Platte Police Department at (308) 535-6789 or Lincoln County Crime Stoppers at (308) 534-8400.&nbsp;

Update: North Platte 14-year-old girl found; Kansas man arrested for kidnapping

One person was transported to an Alliance hospital following an accident on Highway 2, east of Alliance.&nbsp;

On Sunday, April 16 at 5:15 p.m. a semi-truck-trailer was making a deliver to Perrin Manufacturing. Box Butte County Deputy J.D. Sutphen said they pulled out of the business heading westbound. A Dodge Ram pickup slowed behind the semi-truck-trailer, then a&nbsp;Chevrolet Cavalier rear-ended the pickup.&nbsp;

The Cavalier ended up in the north ditch of the highway. Sutphen said the semi-truck-trailer was not involved in the accident.&nbsp;

Sutphen said the minor driver of the Cavalier was transported to Box Butte General Hospital.&nbsp;

Highway 2 was not shut down during this accident.&nbsp;

Alcohol and drugs were not involved.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681916135394.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>One person was transported to an Alliance hospital following an accident on Highway 2, east of Alliance.&nbsp;On Sunday, April 16 at 5:15 p.m. a semi-truck-trailer was making a deliver to Perrin Manufacturing. Box Butte County Deputy J.D. Sutphen said they pulled out of the business heading westbound. A Dodge Ram pickup slowed behind the semi-truck-trailer, then a&nbsp;Chevrolet Cavalier rear-ended the pickup.&nbsp;The Cavalier ended up in the north ditch of the highway. Sutphen said the semi-truck-trailer was not involved in the accident.&nbsp;Sutphen said the minor driver of the Cavalier was transported to Box Butte General Hospital.&nbsp;Highway 2 was not shut down during this accident.&nbsp;Alcohol and drugs were not involved.&nbsp;

1 transported to hospital following Highway 2 accident near Alliance 

LINCOLN – Following an extensive national search, the Board of 
Trustees for the Nebraska State Colleges and Chancellor Paul Turman 
announced Dr. Ron K. Patterson, Ed.D. as the 12th President of Chadron 
State College.

“I am deeply humbled and honored to be 
selected to serve as the President of Chadron State College,” Patterson 
said. “Chadron State College is a special place, and I look forward to 
joining the strong team of dedicated faculty and staff to continue to 
enhance the lives and experiences of our students, their families, and 
the community. The mission, vision, and values align well with my 
purpose and commitment to our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and 
community. My steadfast commitment is to the student experience, 
establishing connections with alumni, and community members to ensure 
their success, while building on the exciting future of Chadron State 
College.”

Patterson has served the University of North Alabama since 2016 in 
multiple leadership roles from chief enrollment officer to most 
recently, vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion and 
director of presidential mentor’s academy for the past three years. 
Previously he served as vice president for enrollment management at 
Marietta College; the University of Central Arkansas as Director of 
Admissions and Enrollment Services; the University of Tennessee Health 
Science Center as Director of Admissions, Assistant Dean for Student 
Affairs; and Christian Brothers University in Admissions.

"I speak for the entire Board when I say, we are thrilled to announce
 Dr. Patterson as the twelfth president of Chadron State,” said John 
Chaney, Chair of the Board of Trustees and Chair of the search 
committee. “Dr. Patterson has a true passion for the institution, our 
mission of accessibility and affordability of the State Colleges, and 
especially the students of Chadron State.”

The comprehensive search process involved input and deliberation from
 a wide range of constituents and stakeholders, including the faculty, 
staff, students, alumni, and community members, and allowed the Search 
Committee to choose the best leader for Chadron State College and its 
future.

“First I would like to thank the search and search advisory 
committees for their great work in advancing an outstanding pool of 
candidates to campus,” said Turman, Chancellor of the Nebraska State 
College System (NSCS). “From this pool, we selected an individual with a
 passion for students and the region to lead Chadron State into the 
future. Dr. Patterson’s considerable enrollment success and 
comprehensive strategic planning experience will serve him well as he 
leads Chadron State into the future.”

• Since joining the University of North Alabama in July 2016, Patterson’s leadership role has become progressively increased, all while improving enrollment by 16.3%.

• Envisioned and reorganized the University Student Success Center to advance a comprehensive approach to a professional advising infrastructure in all academic colleges, student success focused on meaningful connections, coordinating support, demonstrating care, and reducing barriers. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the new approach increased re-enrollment, one-year retention, four- and six-year completion rates, and decreased student success opportunity gaps.

• Strong strategic planning leadership. He was tapped to co-chair the University of North Alabama’s strategic planning committee beginning to develop the second iteration of the University Strategic Plan and had previously led the development and implementation of the Strategic Diversity and Inclusion Plan, 2020-2025, advancing the University’s strategic directions of enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

<a href="https://www.nscs.edu/_resources/e30d:rs75x4-24t/files/77082222zf7e12690/_fn/2023-04-18%20-%20CSC%20President%20Patterson%20Bio.pdf">Dr. Patterson’s full bio</a>

On April 6, 2023, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to 
authorize the Chancellor to negotiate a contract with the new President 
of Chadron State College. Patterson will succeed President Randy Rhine, 
who announced his plans to retire last November. Rhine's last day will 
be June 30, 2023. Dr. Patterson will begin his role as Chadron State’s 
President on July 1, 2023.

Patterson joins Chadron State College at an exciting time. This fall,
 Chadron State increased its enrollment by 2.6%, including a 47% 
increase in new transfer students, and has recently completed the 
addition and remodel of the Math Science Center of Innovative Learning, 
continuing Chadron State’s legacy of leadership in providing a 
high-quality education to its students.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681929591828.png" alt="Dr. Ron Patterson speaks to Chadron State College employees, students, alumni, and media April 18, 2023, in the Student Center Ballroom. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Ron Patterson speaks to Chadron State College employees, students, alumni, and media April 18, 2023, in the Student Center Ballroom. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseLINCOLN – Following an extensive national search, the Board of 
Trustees for the Nebraska State Colleges and Chancellor Paul Turman 
announced Dr. Ron K. Patterson, Ed.D. as the 12th President of Chadron 
State College.“I am deeply humbled and honored to be 
selected to serve as the President of Chadron State College,” Patterson 
said. “Chadron State College is a special place, and I look forward to 
joining the strong team of dedicated faculty and staff to continue to 
enhance the lives and experiences of our students, their families, and 
the community. The mission, vision, and values align well with my 
purpose and commitment to our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and 
community. My steadfast commitment is to the student experience, 
establishing connections with alumni, and community members to ensure 
their success, while building on the exciting future of Chadron State 
College.”Patterson has served the University of North Alabama since 2016 in 
multiple leadership roles from chief enrollment officer to most 
recently, vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion and 
director of presidential mentor’s academy for the past three years. 
Previously he served as vice president for enrollment management at 
Marietta College; the University of Central Arkansas as Director of 
Admissions and Enrollment Services; the University of Tennessee Health 
Science Center as Director of Admissions, Assistant Dean for Student 
Affairs; and Christian Brothers University in Admissions."I speak for the entire Board when I say, we are thrilled to announce
 Dr. Patterson as the twelfth president of Chadron State,” said John 
Chaney, Chair of the Board of Trustees and Chair of the search 
committee. “Dr. Patterson has a true passion for the institution, our 
mission of accessibility and affordability of the State Colleges, and 
especially the students of Chadron State.”The comprehensive search process involved input and deliberation from
 a wide range of constituents and stakeholders, including the faculty, 
staff, students, alumni, and community members, and allowed the Search 
Committee to choose the best leader for Chadron State College and its 
future.“First I would like to thank the search and search advisory 
committees for their great work in advancing an outstanding pool of 
candidates to campus,” said Turman, Chancellor of the Nebraska State 
College System (NSCS). “From this pool, we selected an individual with a
 passion for students and the region to lead Chadron State into the 
future. Dr. Patterson’s considerable enrollment success and 
comprehensive strategic planning experience will serve him well as he 
leads Chadron State into the future.”<h2>Career highlights</h2>• Since joining the University of North Alabama in July 2016, Patterson’s leadership role has become progressively increased, all while improving enrollment by 16.3%.• Envisioned and reorganized the University Student Success Center to advance a comprehensive approach to a professional advising infrastructure in all academic colleges, student success focused on meaningful connections, coordinating support, demonstrating care, and reducing barriers. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the new approach increased re-enrollment, one-year retention, four- and six-year completion rates, and decreased student success opportunity gaps.• Strong strategic planning leadership. He was tapped to co-chair the University of North Alabama’s strategic planning committee beginning to develop the second iteration of the University Strategic Plan and had previously led the development and implementation of the Strategic Diversity and Inclusion Plan, 2020-2025, advancing the University’s strategic directions of enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.<a href="https://www.nscs.edu/_resources/e30d:rs75x4-24t/files/77082222zf7e12690/_fn/2023-04-18%20-%20CSC%20President%20Patterson%20Bio.pdf">Dr. Patterson’s full bio</a>On April 6, 2023, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to 
authorize the Chancellor to negotiate a contract with the new President 
of Chadron State College. Patterson will succeed President Randy Rhine, 
who announced his plans to retire last November. Rhine's last day will 
be June 30, 2023. Dr. Patterson will begin his role as Chadron State’s 
President on July 1, 2023.Patterson joins Chadron State College at an exciting time. This fall,
 Chadron State increased its enrollment by 2.6%, including a 47% 
increase in new transfer students, and has recently completed the 
addition and remodel of the Math Science Center of Innovative Learning, 
continuing Chadron State’s legacy of leadership in providing a 
high-quality education to its students.

Patterson named Chadron State College president

NORTH PLATTE — Steve Hansen, President of the Nebraska Cattlemen Association spoke with Derek Beck about the recent fires in Custer County. 

Hansen also talked about new beef processing plants such as Sustainable Been in North Platte and how that will affect cattle producers. 

This podcast is sponsored by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.westernnebraskabank.com/">Western Nebraska Bank</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681925044052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE — Steve Hansen, President of the Nebraska Cattlemen Association spoke with Derek Beck about the recent fires in Custer County. Hansen also talked about new beef processing plants such as Sustainable Been in North Platte and how that will affect cattle producers. This podcast is sponsored by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.westernnebraskabank.com/">Western Nebraska Bank</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Nebraska Cattlemen Report (Western Nebraska Bank)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=cbc6h-13e88d9-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div>

🎙️ Nebraska Cattlemen Report: Hansen talks about fire relief for Custer Co.

Items on the agenda of the 4/18/23 Alliance City Council meeting are discussed.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=m2df2-13e88ba-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Items on the agenda of the 4/18/23 Alliance City Council meeting are discussed.

POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 4/19/23

Lincoln– Richard Eichhorn of Alliance won $50,000 playing&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Pick 5 from the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Lottery.

Eichhorn purchased his ticket at Nick’s Gas &amp; Liquor at 224 E 3rd St. in Alliance. The ticket contained a quick pick play for the April 10 drawing and matched the winning numbers 15, 21, 26, 34 and 35.

“I play every day,” Eichhorn said. “Week after week.”

He’s won a few $450 prizes for matching four Pick 5 numbers, but this is the first time he’s gotten them all.

Eichhorn and his wife Pat said they’re thinking they might take a cruise with their winnings. They’ve been on cruises around the world, they said, but there’s still a lot to see out there.

“I’m going to keep playing Pick 5,” Eichhorn said. “I’m going to win even bigger&nbsp;next time. Maybe after another cruise.”

Nebraska&nbsp;Pick 5 is&nbsp;Nebraska’s unique&nbsp;Lottery&nbsp;game: all the proceeds from&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Pick 5 stay in&nbsp;Nebraska, and all the winning tickets are sold in&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;at&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Lottery&nbsp;Lotto game retailers. The odds of winning the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Pick 5 jackpot, which starts at $50,000 and grows by $4,000 each drawing that is not won, are 1 in 501,942 while the overall odds of winning a prize in the game, which has drawings seven nights a week, are 1 in 8.

The mission of the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Lottery&nbsp;is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to&nbsp;Nebraskans. Over $923 million has been raised for the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the&nbsp;Lottery&nbsp;began in 1993. All 93 counties in&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;have benefited from projects funded with these&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Lottery&nbsp;proceeds.

By Nebraska Lottery&nbsp;Lincoln– Richard Eichhorn of Alliance won $50,000 playing&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Pick 5 from the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Lottery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681916518436.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eichhorn purchased his ticket at Nick’s Gas &amp; Liquor at 224 E 3rd St. in Alliance. The ticket contained a quick pick play for the April 10 drawing and matched the winning numbers 15, 21, 26, 34 and 35.“I play every day,” Eichhorn said. “Week after week.”He’s won a few $450 prizes for matching four Pick 5 numbers, but this is the first time he’s gotten them all.Eichhorn and his wife Pat said they’re thinking they might take a cruise with their winnings. They’ve been on cruises around the world, they said, but there’s still a lot to see out there.“I’m going to keep playing Pick 5,” Eichhorn said. “I’m going to win even bigger&nbsp;next time. Maybe after another cruise.”Nebraska&nbsp;Pick 5 is&nbsp;Nebraska’s unique&nbsp;Lottery&nbsp;game: all the proceeds from&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Pick 5 stay in&nbsp;Nebraska, and all the winning tickets are sold in&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;at&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Lottery&nbsp;Lotto game retailers. The odds of winning the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Pick 5 jackpot, which starts at $50,000 and grows by $4,000 each drawing that is not won, are 1 in 501,942 while the overall odds of winning a prize in the game, which has drawings seven nights a week, are 1 in 8.The mission of the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Lottery&nbsp;is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to&nbsp;Nebraskans. Over $923 million has been raised for the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the&nbsp;Lottery&nbsp;began in 1993. All 93 counties in&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;have benefited from projects funded with these&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Lottery&nbsp;proceeds.

Alliance man wins $50,000 playing Nebraska Pick 5

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful&nbsp;

Temperatures topped 80 degrees last week fueling spring fever still more than a month before school lets out. This time of year anything goes. A foot of snow? Just missed that recently. Rain is more my speed as the lawn greens up and farmers return to the fields. Other days the sun shines though the wind speed may match the high. How could Nebraska do more to harness those elements?

Box Butte County is plugging into our sunny days with a solar farm at Hemingford and another planned west of Alliance. These arrays add to the renewable resources tapped by the state’s public power utilities. Twenty-three percent of Nebraska’s energy consumption came from renewable sources in 2020 with petroleum (25 percent), coal (24), natural gas (21) and nuclear (7) completing the pie, according to the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE). However, solar accounted for just .075 percent overall. Wind powered 8.86 percent while biofuels came in at 11.54 percent. The Cornhusker state has plenty of wide open spaces that could dramatically add to its capacity for solar power and one of the best places for wind potential in the country. Sun and wind are key resources as all three of Nebraska’s public power districts look to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 or sooner.

Renewable energy is just one factor as our state and the rest of the world grapple with the best approach to climate change. I would like to see more legislation and policies favoring the growth of wind and solar energy. Last month, Nebraska took a major step forward by applying for $3 million from the Inflation Reduction Act to pay for a state climate plan. The NDEE will consider whether to apply for other grants from the act.

I know of a few people locally that have either wind or solar power, yet there should be significant state incentives, beyond what the federal government offers, for landowners who want to contribute to the electrical supply on a larger scale. There is no reason to discourage renewable energy if the option is a choice by residents, municipalities and utilities for everyone’s mutual benefit.

State Senator Tom Brewer, representing Dist. 43 (which includes Dawes, Sheridan and much of north central Nebraska) has advocated for his constituents who he says do not want wind energy projects built in the Sandhills. He has two bills in the current session (LB 255 and 399) that concern renewable energy facilities. LB 255 would prohibit the public power utilities from using eminent domain to take land to build wind and solar projects and thus receive a direct payment federal subsidy. Why should a utility be able to leverage eminent domain for any project? Would the practice be permissible for a gas, coal or nuclear plant? LB 399 would add a state-level public hearing to consider privately-owned renewable energy facilities. I would hope our county boards already seriously weigh residents’ concerns when these projects come under scrutiny at the local level. Hearings were conducted before the Natural Resources Committee in February on both of Brewer’s bills.

Renewable energy can continue to gain momentum even if the Unicameral adopts LB 255 and 399. Our state government should consider opinions in support and opposition. I am confident

that a state climate plan would prioritize renewable energy, finding the right people to make it an asset for Nebraska.

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful&nbsp;Temperatures topped 80 degrees last week fueling spring fever still more than a month before school lets out. This time of year anything goes. A foot of snow? Just missed that recently. Rain is more my speed as the lawn greens up and farmers return to the fields. Other days the sun shines though the wind speed may match the high. How could Nebraska do more to harness those elements?Box Butte County is plugging into our sunny days with a solar farm at Hemingford and another planned west of Alliance. These arrays add to the renewable resources tapped by the state’s public power utilities. Twenty-three percent of Nebraska’s energy consumption came from renewable sources in 2020 with petroleum (25 percent), coal (24), natural gas (21) and nuclear (7) completing the pie, according to the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE). However, solar accounted for just .075 percent overall. Wind powered 8.86 percent while biofuels came in at 11.54 percent. The Cornhusker state has plenty of wide open spaces that could dramatically add to its capacity for solar power and one of the best places for wind potential in the country. Sun and wind are key resources as all three of Nebraska’s public power districts look to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 or sooner.Renewable energy is just one factor as our state and the rest of the world grapple with the best approach to climate change. I would like to see more legislation and policies favoring the growth of wind and solar energy. Last month, Nebraska took a major step forward by applying for $3 million from the Inflation Reduction Act to pay for a state climate plan. The NDEE will consider whether to apply for other grants from the act.I know of a few people locally that have either wind or solar power, yet there should be significant state incentives, beyond what the federal government offers, for landowners who want to contribute to the electrical supply on a larger scale. There is no reason to discourage renewable energy if the option is a choice by residents, municipalities and utilities for everyone’s mutual benefit.State Senator Tom Brewer, representing Dist. 43 (which includes Dawes, Sheridan and much of north central Nebraska) has advocated for his constituents who he says do not want wind energy projects built in the Sandhills. He has two bills in the current session (LB 255 and 399) that concern renewable energy facilities. LB 255 would prohibit the public power utilities from using eminent domain to take land to build wind and solar projects and thus receive a direct payment federal subsidy. Why should a utility be able to leverage eminent domain for any project? Would the practice be permissible for a gas, coal or nuclear plant? LB 399 would add a state-level public hearing to consider privately-owned renewable energy facilities. I would hope our county boards already seriously weigh residents’ concerns when these projects come under scrutiny at the local level. Hearings were conducted before the Natural Resources Committee in February on both of Brewer’s bills.Renewable energy can continue to gain momentum even if the Unicameral adopts LB 255 and 399. Our state government should consider opinions in support and opposition. I am confidentthat a state climate plan would prioritize renewable energy, finding the right people to make it an asset for Nebraska.

KAB: Harvest sunshine and the Nebraska breeze

By TENA L. COOK, CSC MARKETING COORDINATOR

CHADRON – In March, Danielle Covolo, a lecturer of Justice Studies at Chadron State College and doctoral student at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania gave a&nbsp;<a href="https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.acjs.org/resource/resmgr/2023_docs_/finalprogram2023_pdf.pdf" target="_blank">presentation</a>&nbsp;about the healing practices of the Oglala Lakota Tribe at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS).

Her gender and racial justice paper panel presentation in National Harbor, Maryland, was titled Healing Through Reconnecting to Culture for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirited Folx (pronounced folks). Folx is a plural noun used to explicitly signal the inclusion of groups commonly marginalized, Covolo said.

“I’m thankful to all the people who shared their knowledge with me, encouraged me to braid my hair, made my ribbon skirt, and gave me beautiful traditional artwork to wear. All of these things were done to show respect for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People and their relatives. Is it important to remember that the knowledge I shared belongs solely to the Oglala Lakota,” she said.

She discussed pre-colonization and pre-governmental genocide of Native Indian and Alaskan Native in 1491 and forced migrations of the communities restricting them to 79,000 square miles by 1981. She said between 150 and 300 Oglala Lakota were killed at the 1890 Wounded Knee Massacre. Covolo cited 2016 research stating that 50 percent of all Native Indian and Alaska Native women have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime, often committed by non-native offenders.

“The bodies of the Oglala Lakota were further violated by being discarded in a mass grave, denying those fallen proper Oglala Lakota traditional burial rites. Only 25 Army soldiers were killed during the battle and 20 Medals of Honor were awarded to soldiers,” Covolo said.

Covolo said throughout decades, additional horrors have included sterilization by medical providers through the Indian Health Service under the guise of harmless procedures such as appendectomies. Some women sterilized directly after giving birth were told by physicians that the procedure was medically necessary. From 1819 to 1969, the federal government relocated children to 408 federal schools across 37 states or then territories, including 21 schools in Alaska and seven schools in Hawaii.

After outlining the past, she turned her attention to healing through cultural practices. She quoted professor, researcher, and author Dr. Elvira Pulitano who said, “Simply making sense of what is happening can also be a healing place.”

“Pow-wows, feedings, medicines, music, dance, and drumming circles are seen as restorative practices that provide opportunities for family and community members to deepen bonds. These practices emphasize the individual is not alone and interrupt the colonial tactic of divide and conquer. Many pow-wow gatherings are already highlighting the issue of missing and murdered women through ribbon skirts or shirts with red handprints to signify and honor those who are missing or murdered,” she said.

Sundance, the telling of oral histories or Wiwáŋyaŋg Wačhípi&nbsp;(pronounced wee-wan-yang wa-chop-key) can bind current and past generations. The practice, also called time-binding, involves dancing, singing, and drumming for four days. It was outlawed in the 1880s for several decades.

The Women’s Ceremony or Išnáthi alówaŋpi&nbsp;(pronounced iz-nath-ee al-owompee) is a coming of age rite during which all food and drink is administered to girls by caretakers to further reestablish and strengthen bonds within the Oglala Lakota community.

The final healing practice she explained was Making of a Relative. The traditional process of Huŋkálowaŋpi (pronounced hunk-al-owompee) includes celebrations that included dance, traditional food, and the pledger receiving a spirit name.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC MARKETING COORDINATOR<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681914324109.jpeg" alt="Danielle Covolo, right, a lecturer of Justice Studies at Chadron State College and doctoral student at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, poses with Rhonelle Bruder, doctoral student and panel discussion chair, after Covolo's presentation about the healing practices of the Oglala Lakota Tribe at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences conference in National Harbor, Maryland, in March 2023. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Danielle Covolo, right, a lecturer of Justice Studies at Chadron State College and doctoral student at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, poses with Rhonelle Bruder, doctoral student and panel discussion chair, after Covolo's presentation about the healing practices of the Oglala Lakota Tribe at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences conference in National Harbor, Maryland, in March 2023. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – In March, Danielle Covolo, a lecturer of Justice Studies at Chadron State College and doctoral student at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania gave a&nbsp;<a href="https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.acjs.org/resource/resmgr/2023_docs_/finalprogram2023_pdf.pdf" target="_blank">presentation</a>&nbsp;about the healing practices of the Oglala Lakota Tribe at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS).Her gender and racial justice paper panel presentation in National Harbor, Maryland, was titled Healing Through Reconnecting to Culture for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirited Folx (pronounced folks). Folx is a plural noun used to explicitly signal the inclusion of groups commonly marginalized, Covolo said.“I’m thankful to all the people who shared their knowledge with me, encouraged me to braid my hair, made my ribbon skirt, and gave me beautiful traditional artwork to wear. All of these things were done to show respect for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People and their relatives. Is it important to remember that the knowledge I shared belongs solely to the Oglala Lakota,” she said.She discussed pre-colonization and pre-governmental genocide of Native Indian and Alaskan Native in 1491 and forced migrations of the communities restricting them to 79,000 square miles by 1981. She said between 150 and 300 Oglala Lakota were killed at the 1890 Wounded Knee Massacre. Covolo cited 2016 research stating that 50 percent of all Native Indian and Alaska Native women have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime, often committed by non-native offenders.“The bodies of the Oglala Lakota were further violated by being discarded in a mass grave, denying those fallen proper Oglala Lakota traditional burial rites. Only 25 Army soldiers were killed during the battle and 20 Medals of Honor were awarded to soldiers,” Covolo said.Covolo said throughout decades, additional horrors have included sterilization by medical providers through the Indian Health Service under the guise of harmless procedures such as appendectomies. Some women sterilized directly after giving birth were told by physicians that the procedure was medically necessary. From 1819 to 1969, the federal government relocated children to 408 federal schools across 37 states or then territories, including 21 schools in Alaska and seven schools in Hawaii.After outlining the past, she turned her attention to healing through cultural practices. She quoted professor, researcher, and author Dr. Elvira Pulitano who said, “Simply making sense of what is happening can also be a healing place.”“Pow-wows, feedings, medicines, music, dance, and drumming circles are seen as restorative practices that provide opportunities for family and community members to deepen bonds. These practices emphasize the individual is not alone and interrupt the colonial tactic of divide and conquer. Many pow-wow gatherings are already highlighting the issue of missing and murdered women through ribbon skirts or shirts with red handprints to signify and honor those who are missing or murdered,” she said.Sundance, the telling of oral histories or Wiwáŋyaŋg Wačhípi&nbsp;(pronounced wee-wan-yang wa-chop-key) can bind current and past generations. The practice, also called time-binding, involves dancing, singing, and drumming for four days. It was outlawed in the 1880s for several decades.The Women’s Ceremony or Išnáthi alówaŋpi&nbsp;(pronounced iz-nath-ee al-owompee) is a coming of age rite during which all food and drink is administered to girls by caretakers to further reestablish and strengthen bonds within the Oglala Lakota community.The final healing practice she explained was Making of a Relative. The traditional process of Huŋkálowaŋpi (pronounced hunk-al-owompee) includes celebrations that included dance, traditional food, and the pledger receiving a spirit name.

Covolo makes presentation about healing for indigenous people

Agricultural security is national security. Hackers, criminals, foreign intelligence actors,
and terrorists continue to pose a threat to Nebraska’s food and agriculture sector. In particular,
the cyber threats we see today are more pervasive, target a wider range of victims, and can cause
greater damage than ever before. Only through robust partnerships and information sharing can
we mitigate these threats and protect the nation’s food supply.

On June 6 and 7, the FBI Omaha field office will host the 2023 Agriculture Threats
Symposium. It will take place in Lincoln. Participants from the private sector, academia,
industry, and government officials from the agriculture sector are invited to attend, as well as law
enforcement partners.


The free two-day symposium is designed to provide information on cyber, terrorist,
foreign intelligence, and criminal threats to the agriculture sector in the Upper Midwest and offer
resources and guidance for the sector to prevent, detect, and mitigate these threats.


To register, click <a href="https://AgThreatsSymposium.eventbrite.com">HERE</a> and complete the
registration process. Space is limited.

FBI OmahaAgricultural security is national security. Hackers, criminals, foreign intelligence actors,
and terrorists continue to pose a threat to Nebraska’s food and agriculture sector. In particular,
the cyber threats we see today are more pervasive, target a wider range of victims, and can cause
greater damage than ever before. Only through robust partnerships and information sharing can
we mitigate these threats and protect the nation’s food supply.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644004912344.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On June 6 and 7, the FBI Omaha field office will host the 2023 Agriculture Threats
Symposium. It will take place in Lincoln. Participants from the private sector, academia,
industry, and government officials from the agriculture sector are invited to attend, as well as law
enforcement partners.
The free two-day symposium is designed to provide information on cyber, terrorist,
foreign intelligence, and criminal threats to the agriculture sector in the Upper Midwest and offer
resources and guidance for the sector to prevent, detect, and mitigate these threats.
To register, click <a href="https://AgThreatsSymposium.eventbrite.com">HERE</a> and complete the
registration process. Space is limited.

FBI to host agriculture threats symposium in Nebraska

The City of Chadron water tower located to the southeast of the Chadron State College campus received over $22,000 worth of damage as the result of being shot six times on the east side of it.

 Evidence suggests the shots were fired from the area of the CSC Rangeland Building or South Ridgeview Road area. 

The shots appear to be of varying calibers and depths on the water tower. It is suspected the damage occurred some time between April 11-April 12.

If you are aware of who caused this damage or have any information, please contact the Chadron Police Department at (308) 432-0510 or Crime Stoppers at (308) 432-0519. You may be eligible for a monetary reward and can remain anonymous.

By Chadron Police Department<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681836215575.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The City of Chadron water tower located to the southeast of the Chadron State College campus received over $22,000 worth of damage as the result of being shot six times on the east side of it. Evidence suggests the shots were fired from the area of the CSC Rangeland Building or South Ridgeview Road area. The shots appear to be of varying calibers and depths on the water tower. It is suspected the damage occurred some time between April 11-April 12.If you are aware of who caused this damage or have any information, please contact the Chadron Police Department at (308) 432-0510 or Crime Stoppers at (308) 432-0519. You may be eligible for a monetary reward and can remain anonymous.

Water tower shot: Chadron police seeking info from public

BROOKINGS, SD –&nbsp;Millborn Seeds, a seed company dedicated to enriching land and lives for over 36 years, is leading the way in scaling production and efficiency in the seed industry through their acquisition of State Line Seed Company in Sherman, SD. Through this acquisition, Millborn Seeds will continue to expand their focus on procuring and delivering the highest quality seed products to farmers, ranchers, and landowners in all 50 U.S. states and abroad.

Centrally located in Sherman, SD near Interstates 29 and 90, State Line Seed Company is a custom seed cleaning facility positioned to serve customers throughout the United States. This makes State Line Seed Company an ideal fit for the Millborn organization, as Millborn continues to invest in equipment and facilities that move the seed industry forward. “With a vision to provide the highest quality products to our customers, State Line Seed Company is a great addition to the Millborn organization. The location and facilities will allow us to grow our production capabilities and move product to our customers even quicker through our advanced network of production and distribution,” Matt Fenske, CEO of Millborn Seeds. Millborn Seeds has completed the acquisition of State Line Seed Company and will look to expand production in the facility in 2023 and beyond. &nbsp;

For more information on Millborn Seeds, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://millbornseeds.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6ccb8c4fcac9779e3fc9af129&amp;id=2af215246c&amp;e=3446039693" target="_blank">www.millbornseeds.com</a>.

About Millborn Seeds: With over 36 years in the seed industry, the Millborn Seeds team is focused on being trailblazers in resilient land use. Millborn Seeds offers specialized products that fit growers’ needs with over 1200 species of seed and are a global grower partner, serving customers in all 50 U.S. states and abroad in several countries. In 2022, Millborn Seeds expanded their headquarters in Brookings, SD and added a state-of-the-art blending and packaging line. Investments in facilities, technologies, and processes are imperative, as Millborn Seeds leads the way as visionaries in the seed industry.

BROOKINGS, SD –&nbsp;Millborn Seeds, a seed company dedicated to enriching land and lives for over 36 years, is leading the way in scaling production and efficiency in the seed industry through their acquisition of State Line Seed Company in Sherman, SD. Through this acquisition, Millborn Seeds will continue to expand their focus on procuring and delivering the highest quality seed products to farmers, ranchers, and landowners in all 50 U.S. states and abroad.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681834147594.jpeg" alt="Photo from millbornseeds.com&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo from millbornseeds.com&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Centrally located in Sherman, SD near Interstates 29 and 90, State Line Seed Company is a custom seed cleaning facility positioned to serve customers throughout the United States. This makes State Line Seed Company an ideal fit for the Millborn organization, as Millborn continues to invest in equipment and facilities that move the seed industry forward. “With a vision to provide the highest quality products to our customers, State Line Seed Company is a great addition to the Millborn organization. The location and facilities will allow us to grow our production capabilities and move product to our customers even quicker through our advanced network of production and distribution,” Matt Fenske, CEO of Millborn Seeds. Millborn Seeds has completed the acquisition of State Line Seed Company and will look to expand production in the facility in 2023 and beyond. &nbsp;For more information on Millborn Seeds, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://millbornseeds.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6ccb8c4fcac9779e3fc9af129&amp;id=2af215246c&amp;e=3446039693" target="_blank">www.millbornseeds.com</a>.About Millborn Seeds: With over 36 years in the seed industry, the Millborn Seeds team is focused on being trailblazers in resilient land use. Millborn Seeds offers specialized products that fit growers’ needs with over 1200 species of seed and are a global grower partner, serving customers in all 50 U.S. states and abroad in several countries. In 2022, Millborn Seeds expanded their headquarters in Brookings, SD and added a state-of-the-art blending and packaging line. Investments in facilities, technologies, and processes are imperative, as Millborn Seeds leads the way as visionaries in the seed industry.

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