Alliance – The Knight Museum and Sandhills Center will be extending their hours for the summer season. 

The Museum will be available to visit Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

Summer hours will begin on May 16 and remain in effect until September.

For more information, please contact the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center at (308) 762-2384.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The Knight Museum and Sandhills Center will be extending their hours for the summer season. The Museum will be available to visit Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Summer hours will begin on May 16 and remain in effect until September.For more information, please contact the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center at (308) 762-2384.

Knight Museum and Sandhills Center changing to summer hours

By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Help document rare butterflies across Nebraska by getting trained to monitor for regal fritillaries and monarchs at one of three upcoming events.

Trainings for the community science effort are:

Register to attend one of the trainings through their event listings at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MDYuNTc1NDEzNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LkNhbGVuZGFyLk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YifQ.t7OqGRaY41dJ6mH_wws23V_qf-N1N9AL9xS6RN2u0Ds/s/497221906/br/130950731368-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>. Only one training session is required to survey.

The first hour of the training sessions will be dedicated to gaining general information on monarchs, regal fritillaries, common plants and other community science opportunities; anyone is welcome. Those wanting to survey for the butterflies will learn about survey methods during the remaining time.

The effort to monitor populations of monarchs and regal fritillaries across their range began in Nebraska in 2015. The goal is to better understand them in order to provide more effective conservation. The expansive survey is not possible without the help of volunteers. Learn more about the effort at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MDYuNTc1NDEzNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvYnV0dGVyZmx5c3VydmV5LyJ9.AO93bJ7ZyuSDIRp5yZWkwaox4H2zd_qThpOn5OQ41Fk/s/497221906/br/130950731368-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/ButterflySurvey</a>.

For more information on the training sessions, contact Cody Dreier, survey organizer, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cody.dreier@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">cody.dreier@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-1755.

By Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionHelp document rare butterflies across Nebraska by getting trained to monitor for regal fritillaries and monarchs at one of three upcoming events.Trainings for the community science effort are:<ul>
 <li>May 21: 1-5 p.m. at Schramm Park State Recreation Area, 21502 W. Highway 31, Gretna</li><li>May 26: 1-5 p.m. via Zoom</li><li>June 4: 1-5 p.m. at Homestead National Historical Park, 8523 NE-4, Beatrice</li>
 </ul>Register to attend one of the trainings through their event listings at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MDYuNTc1NDEzNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LkNhbGVuZGFyLk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YifQ.t7OqGRaY41dJ6mH_wws23V_qf-N1N9AL9xS6RN2u0Ds/s/497221906/br/130950731368-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>. Only one training session is required to survey.The first hour of the training sessions will be dedicated to gaining general information on monarchs, regal fritillaries, common plants and other community science opportunities; anyone is welcome. Those wanting to survey for the butterflies will learn about survey methods during the remaining time.The effort to monitor populations of monarchs and regal fritillaries across their range began in Nebraska in 2015. The goal is to better understand them in order to provide more effective conservation. The expansive survey is not possible without the help of volunteers. Learn more about the effort at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MDYuNTc1NDEzNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvYnV0dGVyZmx5c3VydmV5LyJ9.AO93bJ7ZyuSDIRp5yZWkwaox4H2zd_qThpOn5OQ41Fk/s/497221906/br/130950731368-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/ButterflySurvey</a>.For more information on the training sessions, contact Cody Dreier, survey organizer, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cody.dreier@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">cody.dreier@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-1755.

NGPC to train citizens to survey for rare butterflies

By Nebraska Extension Office Box Butte County

Over 120 Box Butte County 2nd grade students got a hands-on education about Nebraska agriculture.

The Hemingford location at the Box Butte County Fairgrounds held on Monday, April 25 was the first of five Agsplosions to take place. In the weeks to come, the Agsplosion Festival will visit Dawes, Morrill, Cheyenne, and Scotts Bluff county youth.

Nebraska Extension, 4-H Educators and Assistants from across the Panhandle led the activities throughout the day. Agsplosion, an Agricultural Literacy Festival, where young learners spent the day rotating through stops about corn, soybeans, pigs, dry edible beans, wheat, beef cattle, ag technology, potatoes and dairy.

One teacher said the material the students learned during the Agsplosion field day relates well with what they have been taught in the classroom.

Another teacher said, “My kids loved what they learned. They stayed engaged the whole day.”

“My students learned that popcorn and potato chips come from Nebraska,” said another teacher.

Agsplosion is very important for students, families, and educators to work together to emphasize the importance of agriculture in our community. This program also helped familiarize youth about where their food comes from and the by-products they use in their daily lives.

By Nebraska Extension Office Box Butte CountyOver 120 Box Butte County 2nd grade students got a hands-on education about Nebraska agriculture.The Hemingford location at the Box Butte County Fairgrounds held on Monday, April 25 was the first of five Agsplosions to take place. In the weeks to come, the Agsplosion Festival will visit Dawes, Morrill, Cheyenne, and Scotts Bluff county youth.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652060511314.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska Extension, 4-H Educators and Assistants from across the Panhandle led the activities throughout the day. Agsplosion, an Agricultural Literacy Festival, where young learners spent the day rotating through stops about corn, soybeans, pigs, dry edible beans, wheat, beef cattle, ag technology, potatoes and dairy.One teacher said the material the students learned during the Agsplosion field day relates well with what they have been taught in the classroom.Another teacher said, “My kids loved what they learned. They stayed engaged the whole day.”“My students learned that popcorn and potato chips come from Nebraska,” said another teacher.Agsplosion is very important for students, families, and educators to work together to emphasize the importance of agriculture in our community. This program also helped familiarize youth about where their food comes from and the by-products they use in their daily lives.

Agsplosion kicks off in Hemingford, bringing agriculture to students

At approximately 7:03 a.m. on May 8, the Grant County Sheriff's Office was called to a hazmat semi rollover on Highway 61, south of Hyannis.&nbsp;

"After being extracted from the vehicle, the driver, a 64-year-old man from the North Platte area, was determined not to have life threatening injuries," Grant County Sheriff Mike Rath said.&nbsp;

The cause of the accident is under investigation.&nbsp;

Sandhills Area Fire District, Grant County Ambulance and North Platte Fire Department hazmat crews assisted with this accident.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostAt approximately 7:03 a.m. on May 8, the Grant County Sheriff's Office was called to a hazmat semi rollover on Highway 61, south of Hyannis.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652059878477.jpeg" alt="Photos by Grant County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Photos by Grant County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>"After being extracted from the vehicle, the driver, a 64-year-old man from the North Platte area, was determined not to have life threatening injuries," Grant County Sheriff Mike Rath said.&nbsp;Rath said seat belts were in use.&nbsp;The cause of the accident is under investigation.&nbsp;Sandhills Area Fire District, Grant County Ambulance and North Platte Fire Department hazmat crews assisted with this accident.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652059911012.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Non-life-threatening-injuries following semi rollover south of Hyannis 

LAKE PRESTON, S.D. (AP) — Farmers in South Dakota says there’s a reason for optimism as they head out to their fields to plant crops this spring.

 Commodity markets are up 62% over the 10-year average. 

Wayne Soren raises crops and cattle near Lake Preston. 

Although he’s optimistic as he drives his planter into his corn field, the third-generation farmer also has concerns, mainly about dry conditions.

 Soren wonders if there will be enough rain to grow a crop this years. Following the late-April rainstorms, the May 5th U.S. Drought Monitor data shows 69% of the state remains in drought conditions.

By Associated PressLAKE PRESTON, S.D. (AP) — Farmers in South Dakota says there’s a reason for optimism as they head out to their fields to plant crops this spring. Commodity markets are up 62% over the 10-year average. Wayne Soren raises crops and cattle near Lake Preston. Although he’s optimistic as he drives his planter into his corn field, the third-generation farmer also has concerns, mainly about dry conditions. Soren wonders if there will be enough rain to grow a crop this years. Following the late-April rainstorms, the May 5th U.S. Drought Monitor data shows 69% of the state remains in drought conditions.

South Dakota farmers optimistic about commodity prices

ABIGAIL SWANSON – CSC College Relations

CHADRON – Chadron State College Associate Professor of English Dr. Kimberly Cox presented at the Northern Plains Early British Literature Conference at the University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, April 22-23. CSC student Ezra Hare also attended, and 2020 alumna Rachel Mitchell presented.

Cox’s plenary talk focused on hand grasping as moments of sexual violation and hand clasping as moments of consensual romantic encounter in eighteenth-century novels.

While she was pleased to present at the conference, she also mentioned the importance of networking with colleagues.

“Not only will it strengthen my research and writing, but it’ll strengthen my teaching by broadening my knowledge base and resources,” Cox said.

Cox plans to schedule a video conference appearance with one of fellow conference speakers in a Shakespeare class next year.

Hare said the conference provided opportunities for academically complex discussions in small groups.

“The conference was a great chance to get some exposure to high level, graduate studies and papers; it really cemented my interest in critical evaluations of English literature,” Hare said.

Hare also said he was glad to have time to explore the USD campus and find out more about its master’s programs.

Mitchell, a second-year master's student at USD, presented a paper titled A Sicilian Romance:&nbsp;Women Do That Which Is Right.

Mitchell said she was excited for the occasion to reconnect with Cox, her former adviser.

“It was really wonderful to reconnect with a former professor and also get to hear her speak,” Mitchell said.

ABIGAIL SWANSON – CSC College RelationsCHADRON – Chadron State College Associate Professor of English Dr. Kimberly Cox presented at the Northern Plains Early British Literature Conference at the University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, April 22-23. CSC student Ezra Hare also attended, and 2020 alumna Rachel Mitchell presented.Cox’s plenary talk focused on hand grasping as moments of sexual violation and hand clasping as moments of consensual romantic encounter in eighteenth-century novels.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651864960378.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College Associate Professor of English Dr. Kimberly Cox, center, a presenter at the Northern Plains Early British Literature Conference at the University of South Dakota, Vermillion, S.D., April 22-23, 2022. CSC student Ezra Hare, left, attended, and 2020 alumna Rachel Mitchell, right, presented. (Courtesy image used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College Associate Professor of English Dr. Kimberly Cox, center, a presenter at the Northern Plains Early British Literature Conference at the University of South Dakota, Vermillion, S.D., April 22-23, 2022. CSC student Ezra Hare, left, attended, and 2020 alumna Rachel Mitchell, right, presented. (Courtesy image used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>While she was pleased to present at the conference, she also mentioned the importance of networking with colleagues.“Not only will it strengthen my research and writing, but it’ll strengthen my teaching by broadening my knowledge base and resources,” Cox said.Cox plans to schedule a video conference appearance with one of fellow conference speakers in a Shakespeare class next year.Hare said the conference provided opportunities for academically complex discussions in small groups.“The conference was a great chance to get some exposure to high level, graduate studies and papers; it really cemented my interest in critical evaluations of English literature,” Hare said.Hare also said he was glad to have time to explore the USD campus and find out more about its master’s programs.Mitchell, a second-year master's student at USD, presented a paper titled A Sicilian Romance:&nbsp;Women Do That Which Is Right.Mitchell said she was excited for the occasion to reconnect with Cox, her former adviser.“It was really wonderful to reconnect with a former professor and also get to hear her speak,” Mitchell said.

CSC represented at British Literature conference

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Advocates for legalizing recreational marijuana in South Dakota have submitted thousands of petition signatures to the secretary of state. 

They say they've collected enough to place the initiative on the November ballot. 

South Dakotans for Better Marijuana Laws has scrambled in recent days to gather the nearly 17,000 petition signatures required to place a proposed law on the ballot. 

The signatures must come from registered South Dakota voters.

 Matt Schweich, campaign director for the organization, says the campaign evaluated the petitions and estimates it has at least 19,250 valid signatures.

By Associated PressSIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Advocates for legalizing recreational marijuana in South Dakota have submitted thousands of petition signatures to the secretary of state. They say they've collected enough to place the initiative on the November ballot. South Dakotans for Better Marijuana Laws has scrambled in recent days to gather the nearly 17,000 petition signatures required to place a proposed law on the ballot. The signatures must come from registered South Dakota voters. Matt Schweich, campaign director for the organization, says the campaign evaluated the petitions and estimates it has at least 19,250 valid signatures.

SD marijuana legalization campaign submits signatures for ballot

By&nbsp;Western Community Health Resources

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, it is important to remember that you are not alone; now or ever - help is available, and recovery is possible.

Addressing mental health symptoms early is critically important for overall health. At Western Community Health Resources, we can help you address daily stressors that may be affecting your mental health.&nbsp; We can help connect you to resources in the community such as rental assistance, prescription assistance, basic care items, medication management, WIC assistance, respite, reproductive health services, immunizations, and much more.&nbsp; We can also help connect you with a mental health provider who can help you develop a plan for addressing and treating your mental health concerns.&nbsp; We also offer youth services!&nbsp; Did you know that 7 out of 10 young people say mental health is weighing them down, yet most of these individuals have difficulty finding and asking for help?&nbsp;

Life can be challenging, but every day shouldn’t feel hard or out of your control. If you feel that you may be experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, take a mental health screening at mhascreening.org.

 For more information, please reach out to Western Community Health Resources at 308-432-2747 for Dawes, Sheridan, and Sioux counties , 308-762-3696 for Box Butte, and Morrill counties or 1-800-717-1231 for any other inquiries.

By&nbsp;Western Community Health ResourcesMay is Mental Health Awareness Month, it is important to remember that you are not alone; now or ever - help is available, and recovery is possible.Addressing mental health symptoms early is critically important for overall health. At Western Community Health Resources, we can help you address daily stressors that may be affecting your mental health.&nbsp; We can help connect you to resources in the community such as rental assistance, prescription assistance, basic care items, medication management, WIC assistance, respite, reproductive health services, immunizations, and much more.&nbsp; We can also help connect you with a mental health provider who can help you develop a plan for addressing and treating your mental health concerns.&nbsp; We also offer youth services!&nbsp; Did you know that 7 out of 10 young people say mental health is weighing them down, yet most of these individuals have difficulty finding and asking for help?&nbsp;Life can be challenging, but every day shouldn’t feel hard or out of your control. If you feel that you may be experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, take a mental health screening at mhascreening.org. For more information, please reach out to Western Community Health Resources at 308-432-2747 for Dawes, Sheridan, and Sioux counties , 308-762-3696 for Box Butte, and Morrill counties or 1-800-717-1231 for any other inquiries.

WCHR celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month in Dawes Co. 

By&nbsp;Nebraska Extension Box Butte County

4-H members care about the community and want to give back to the county that has given them so much. April was volunteer month, 4-H members in the Panhandle have created a community service challenge to volunteer 1,000 hours during the month of April. 

Box Butte County youth met on April 22nd after school to create 250 May Day baskets for teachers, paras, and school staff. 

This event contributed 39 hours to the service challenge. While this event was fun for the youth to participate in, it also allowed them to think about doing something nice for others. 

“We chose May Day baskets because we thought it was all activity youth of all ages could participate in to show school staff how much we appreciate everything they do for youth throughout the year.” said Melissa Mracek, 4-H Educator.

By&nbsp;Nebraska Extension Box Butte County4-H members care about the community and want to give back to the county that has given them so much. April was volunteer month, 4-H members in the Panhandle have created a community service challenge to volunteer 1,000 hours during the month of April. Box Butte County youth met on April 22nd after school to create 250 May Day baskets for teachers, paras, and school staff. This event contributed 39 hours to the service challenge. While this event was fun for the youth to participate in, it also allowed them to think about doing something nice for others. “We chose May Day baskets because we thought it was all activity youth of all ages could participate in to show school staff how much we appreciate everything they do for youth throughout the year.” said Melissa Mracek, 4-H Educator.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651854806252.png" alt="Wren Weare and Grady Mracek make May Day baskets." />
 <figcaption>Wren Weare and Grady Mracek make May Day baskets.</figcaption>
 </figure>

4-H gives back

Eagle Radio of Alliance / Chadron and Panhandle Post are proud to present the area Class of 2022! Congratulations to all our area graduates!

Eagle Radio of Alliance / Chadron and Panhandle Post are proud to present the area Class of 2022! Congratulations to all our area graduates!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1570561923395.jpeg" alt="Alliance High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/alliance">HERE</a>" />
 <figcaption>Alliance High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/alliance">HERE</a></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1572272230052.jpeg" alt="Chadron High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/chadron">HERE</a>" />
 <figcaption>Chadron High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/chadron">HERE</a></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620677413959.png" alt="Hemingford High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/hemingford">HERE</a>" />
 <figcaption>Hemingford High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/hemingford">HERE</a></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620677354229.jpeg" alt="Crawford High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/crawford">HERE</a>" />
 <figcaption>Crawford High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/crawford">HERE</a></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620677588537.jpeg" alt="Hyannis High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/hyannis">HERE</a>" />
 <figcaption>Hyannis High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/hyannis">HERE</a></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620328893071.png" alt="Bridgeport High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/bridgeport">HERE</a>" />
 <figcaption>Bridgeport High School / Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/bridgeport">HERE</a></figcaption>
 </figure>

Panhandle Post presents the Class of 2022

Today we spoke with Chadron City Manager John Sutherland about the May 2 city council meeting. The council approved a lease between Nebraska Northwestern Railroad and the city for a city park at First and Main Street. The council also approved a resolution for the Recreational Trails Program project for completing the Cowboy Trail Connection project and more.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Chadron City Manager John Sutherland" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=335sc-121d891-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Today we spoke with Chadron City Manager John Sutherland about the May 2 city council meeting. The council approved a lease between Nebraska Northwestern Railroad and the city for a city park at First and Main Street. The council also approved a resolution for the Recreational Trails Program project for completing the Cowboy Trail Connection project and more.&nbsp;

🔊Post Podcast: Chadron City Manager John Sutherland

Jessen Farms awards 4 scholarships to AHS students

By ASIA GRAHAM, CSC College Relations

CHADRON – Chadron State College’s new program,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/fcs/nutrition/index.csc" target="_blank">Nutrition and Dietetics</a>, will be offered in Fall 2022.&nbsp;The degree program, based on the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) standards, requires a combination of Biology, Chemistry, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Nutrition courses.

According to Dr. Erin Norman, associate professor in Family and Consumer Sciences, the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) is an excellent match for students interested in science, health care, and nutrition. She said the core curriculum is similar to those in pre-medicine and pre-nursing nursing programs, but with an emphasis on nutrition and food. Graduates with this degree can pursue careers in food service, public health, community nutrition, long-term care, sports nutrition, research and education.

Norman is excited for the program to start.

“There is a great need for more registered dietitians as the health issues in the United States continue to climb, especially in rural regions.&nbsp;Our DPD program is specially designed to give our graduates a strong competitive edge, and it meets the pre-requisite requirements to be accepted into many different master's degree programs at a wide variety of colleges and universities,” Norman said. “This is key, as the Registered Dietitian requirements move to the master’s degree level starting in 2024 and the competition will be high.”

After graduation with 120 credit hours, students with an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher in general studies courses, a B or higher in previous nutrition classes, and a C or higher in all DPD required science classes will receive verification statements. The verification statement is needed before students apply for a required ACEND accredited supervised practice experience.

Norman said CSC graduates may become a Registered Dietitian or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist if they complete the required course work, and a dietetic internship or supervised practice experience that has been accredited by ACEND. Finally, students will need to pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam for the credential they seek, and obtain any additional certifications required by the state where they want to work.

For more information about the program, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/fcs/nutrition/index.csc" target="_blank">csc.edu/fcs/nutrition/index.csc</a>.

By ASIA GRAHAM, CSC College RelationsCHADRON – Chadron State College’s new program,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/fcs/nutrition/index.csc" target="_blank">Nutrition and Dietetics</a>, will be offered in Fall 2022.&nbsp;The degree program, based on the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) standards, requires a combination of Biology, Chemistry, Family and Consumer Sciences, and Nutrition courses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651854178815.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College’s new program, Nutrition and Dietetics, will be offered in Fall 2022. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College’s new program, Nutrition and Dietetics, will be offered in Fall 2022. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>According to Dr. Erin Norman, associate professor in Family and Consumer Sciences, the Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) is an excellent match for students interested in science, health care, and nutrition. She said the core curriculum is similar to those in pre-medicine and pre-nursing nursing programs, but with an emphasis on nutrition and food. Graduates with this degree can pursue careers in food service, public health, community nutrition, long-term care, sports nutrition, research and education.Norman is excited for the program to start.“There is a great need for more registered dietitians as the health issues in the United States continue to climb, especially in rural regions.&nbsp;Our DPD program is specially designed to give our graduates a strong competitive edge, and it meets the pre-requisite requirements to be accepted into many different master's degree programs at a wide variety of colleges and universities,” Norman said. “This is key, as the Registered Dietitian requirements move to the master’s degree level starting in 2024 and the competition will be high.”After graduation with 120 credit hours, students with an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher in general studies courses, a B or higher in previous nutrition classes, and a C or higher in all DPD required science classes will receive verification statements. The verification statement is needed before students apply for a required ACEND accredited supervised practice experience.Norman said CSC graduates may become a Registered Dietitian or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist if they complete the required course work, and a dietetic internship or supervised practice experience that has been accredited by ACEND. Finally, students will need to pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam for the credential they seek, and obtain any additional certifications required by the state where they want to work.For more information about the program, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/fcs/nutrition/index.csc" target="_blank">csc.edu/fcs/nutrition/index.csc</a>.

New nutrition, dietetics degree offered at Chadron State College

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 5/6/22 Hurry-Up Offense

Mara Andersen discusses the results of the ARC annual fundraising campaign.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Alliance Recreation Center" 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=8gjne-121d4f5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Mara Andersen discusses the results of the ARC annual fundraising campaign.

POST PODCAST: Alliance Recreation

Alliance – Box Butte County RSVP will be hosting a mobile food pantry in conjunction with Northwest Community Action Partnership and Food bank for the Heartland on Wednesday, May 11, 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. This is a free program which distributes food to families in Alliance, serving one distribution per car.

To ensure safe access to the Senior Center located at 212 Yellowstone Avenue, the Alliance Police Department are asking patrons to begin at the northeast corner of East 2nd Street and Yellowstone Avenue. Traffic will line up down East 2nd to Potash Avenue on the north side of the street. Please make sure to leave intersections open. Any overflow traffic will continue on Potash Avenue to East 3rd Street parking along the south curb on East 3rd Street. Please stay in your vehicle at time of delivery.

For more information about the food drive, please contact Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293.

By City of AllianceAlliance – Box Butte County RSVP will be hosting a mobile food pantry in conjunction with Northwest Community Action Partnership and Food bank for the Heartland on Wednesday, May 11, 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. This is a free program which distributes food to families in Alliance, serving one distribution per car.To ensure safe access to the Senior Center located at 212 Yellowstone Avenue, the Alliance Police Department are asking patrons to begin at the northeast corner of East 2nd Street and Yellowstone Avenue. Traffic will line up down East 2nd to Potash Avenue on the north side of the street. Please make sure to leave intersections open. Any overflow traffic will continue on Potash Avenue to East 3rd Street parking along the south curb on East 3rd Street. Please stay in your vehicle at time of delivery.For more information about the food drive, please contact Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293.

Box Butte Co. RSVP, NCAP to host mobile food pantry in Alliance

Columbus, Neb. – Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) is encouraging farmers to look up and look out for powerlines heading into spring planting season. 

As farmers make their way back out to the field for planting season, NPPD is asking equipment operators to be aware of any powerlines located along the fields they are working in to ensure they can complete their work safely. 

“Planting season is a busy time for many of our customers in the ag community and it’s important that we remind operators the importance of working safely around powerlines,” says NPPD Transmission and Distribution Construction and Maintenance Manager Scott Walz. “Many pieces of equipment have large booms or can sit tall enough to get near powerlines. If equipment gets close, or contacts a powerline, it can cause serious or fatal injury, and can also result in power outages and damage to equipment as well as vehicle electronics.”

 If a vehicle or piece of equipment is in contact with a powerline, call 911 or your local power provider and remain inside the vehicle until help can arrive and deenergize the powerline. When a powerline is touching a vehicle, it can electrify both the vehicle and the ground in the surrounding area. If a fire forces you to exit the vehicle, then do so by jumping away from the vehicle, landing on two feet, and shuffling as far away from the area as possible. NPPD recommends farmers review the following safety precautions before entering the fields to begin harvest operations. 

Find more information on farm safety at <a href="http://NPPD.com">NPPD.com</a>.

· Each day, review all farm activities and work practices that will take place around powerlines and remind all workers to take precautions.

· Know the location of powerlines and when setting up the farm equipment, be at least 20 feet away from them. Contact your local public power provider if you feel this distance cannot be achieved.

· Use caution when raising augers or the bed of a grain truck or wagon. It can be difficult to estimate distance, and sometimes a powerline is closer than it looks. For large equipment, use a spotter to ensure the equipment stays a safe distance from the line.

· Always adjust portable augers or elevators to their lowest possible level – under 14 feet – before transporting them. Variables like wind, uneven ground, or shifting weight can cause unexpected results.

By NPPDColumbus, Neb. – Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) is encouraging farmers to look up and look out for powerlines heading into spring planting season. As farmers make their way back out to the field for planting season, NPPD is asking equipment operators to be aware of any powerlines located along the fields they are working in to ensure they can complete their work safely. “Planting season is a busy time for many of our customers in the ag community and it’s important that we remind operators the importance of working safely around powerlines,” says NPPD Transmission and Distribution Construction and Maintenance Manager Scott Walz. “Many pieces of equipment have large booms or can sit tall enough to get near powerlines. If equipment gets close, or contacts a powerline, it can cause serious or fatal injury, and can also result in power outages and damage to equipment as well as vehicle electronics.” If a vehicle or piece of equipment is in contact with a powerline, call 911 or your local power provider and remain inside the vehicle until help can arrive and deenergize the powerline. When a powerline is touching a vehicle, it can electrify both the vehicle and the ground in the surrounding area. If a fire forces you to exit the vehicle, then do so by jumping away from the vehicle, landing on two feet, and shuffling as far away from the area as possible. NPPD recommends farmers review the following safety precautions before entering the fields to begin harvest operations. Find more information on farm safety at <a href="http://NPPD.com">NPPD.com</a>.· Each day, review all farm activities and work practices that will take place around powerlines and remind all workers to take precautions.· Know the location of powerlines and when setting up the farm equipment, be at least 20 feet away from them. Contact your local public power provider if you feel this distance cannot be achieved.· Use caution when raising augers or the bed of a grain truck or wagon. It can be difficult to estimate distance, and sometimes a powerline is closer than it looks. For large equipment, use a spotter to ensure the equipment stays a safe distance from the line.· Always adjust portable augers or elevators to their lowest possible level – under 14 feet – before transporting them. Variables like wind, uneven ground, or shifting weight can cause unexpected results.

NPPD: Look up, look out for powerlines during spring planting

Alliance – 2022 Big Blue Bay season passes will be available at the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center beginning May 9, 2022 from 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m. Please bring an individual 1 or 2-inch photo of each individual who will need a pass. If you do not have the necessary photos, staff can take the photo for a $2.00 fee.

Big Blue Bay will be opening at the end of May when weather and water conditions permit.

For more information, please contact the Culture &amp; Leisure Services Department at (308) 762-2384.

By City of AllianceAlliance – 2022 Big Blue Bay season passes will be available at the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center beginning May 9, 2022 from 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m. Please bring an individual 1 or 2-inch photo of each individual who will need a pass. If you do not have the necessary photos, staff can take the photo for a $2.00 fee.Prices for season passes are as follows:· Household pass - $150.00· 17 and under - $65.00· 18 and older - $80.00· Lap Swim Only - $50.00Big Blue Bay will be opening at the end of May when weather and water conditions permit.For more information, please contact the Culture &amp; Leisure Services Department at (308) 762-2384.

Big Blue Bay season passes available at Knight Museum

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – Chadron State College students and faculty attended the Nebraska Academy of Sciences Conference April 21-23 in Lincoln. The students were Isioma Akwanamnye of Lagos, Nigeria, Corey Griffin of Omaha, Riley Hill of Greybull, Wyo., Abigail Klammer of Juniata, Neb., Spencer Knuth of Holdrege, Neb., Joshua Kruse of Gurley, Neb., Jared Nelson of Gordon, Neb., Thea Rosberg of Wausa, Neb., and Emmanuella Tchona of Republic of Benin. The faculty included Dr. Ann Buchmann, Dr. Mary Keithly, Dr. Jeffrey Kiiskila, and Dr. Mike Leite.

Other students who presented virtually included Beau Jersild and Robert Logan Tiensvold of Chadron. Tiensvold won the Nebraska Geological Society prize for best undergraduate paper in the Earth Sciences.

Leite said he was honored to see the student presentations.

“I am proud to have played a part in the education of these talented young scientists,” Leite said.

Klammer and Rosberg are NASA fellows, and Akwanamnye, Kruse, and Tchona are IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) students. INBRE is a statewide grant program that funds Nebraska undergraduates’ research for two years.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/story.csc?article=12662" target="_blank">Akwanamnye</a>, a graduating&nbsp;<a href="https://csc.edu/sci/biology/inbre/index.csc" target="_blank">INBRE</a>&nbsp;student, has been accepted at Case Western where she will be doing graduate-level cancer research.

Keithly said the&nbsp;students did an amazing job presenting their research.

“They presented high-quality research and connected with fellow scientists from other Nebraska higher education institutions. I was very proud of everyone that participated both in-person and online,” Keithly said.

Recent CSC graduates who conducted research and helped write presentations but did not travel to Lincoln included Lelisse Umeta, Feven Hailemariam, Alisha Huynh, and Joseph Keating.

Faculty who contributed to or supervised research, but did not attend the conference include Dr. Tim Keith and Dr. Tawny Tibbits.

An In Vitro Synthesis of Bacillithiol by Klammer and Keithly.

Monoclonal Antibodies in Breastmilk of Vaccinated Women by Rosberg and Keithly.

Utilizing Yearling Weight and Heifer Pregnancy Expected Progeny Differences for Fertility Selection in Beef Heifers by Jersild and Buchmann.

NF-kB Signaling in Triple Negative Breast Cancer by Kruse, Akwanamnye, Umeta, Hailemariam, and Buchmann.

Examining the role of Chlamydia Trachomatis in Altering Intro-Golgi Trafficking Kinetics by Akwanamnye and UNMC Associate Professor Dr. Elizabeth Rucks.

Investigating Enzymatic Resistance to Fofomycin by FOSB in Gram-positive Bacteria by Huynh, Keating, and Keithly.

Mitigation of Tooth Discoloration and Enamel Erosion from Chewing Tobacco by Hill and Keithly.

Improving Elephant Toothpaste as an Educational Demonstration by Nelson and Keith.

Causes and Mitigation of Iron Deficiency Chlorosis in Soybeans (Glycine Max) by Knuth, Kiiskila, and Keithly.

Water Sampling for the Know Your Well Project in Northwestern Nebraska by Griffin, Tibbits, Leite, and Keithly.

Oil Potential in Western Nebraska by Tiensvold and Leite.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Chadron State College students and faculty attended the Nebraska Academy of Sciences Conference April 21-23 in Lincoln. The students were Isioma Akwanamnye of Lagos, Nigeria, Corey Griffin of Omaha, Riley Hill of Greybull, Wyo., Abigail Klammer of Juniata, Neb., Spencer Knuth of Holdrege, Neb., Joshua Kruse of Gurley, Neb., Jared Nelson of Gordon, Neb., Thea Rosberg of Wausa, Neb., and Emmanuella Tchona of Republic of Benin. The faculty included Dr. Ann Buchmann, Dr. Mary Keithly, Dr. Jeffrey Kiiskila, and Dr. Mike Leite.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651792117018.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Other students who presented virtually included Beau Jersild and Robert Logan Tiensvold of Chadron. Tiensvold won the Nebraska Geological Society prize for best undergraduate paper in the Earth Sciences.Leite said he was honored to see the student presentations.“I am proud to have played a part in the education of these talented young scientists,” Leite said.Klammer and Rosberg are NASA fellows, and Akwanamnye, Kruse, and Tchona are IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) students. INBRE is a statewide grant program that funds Nebraska undergraduates’ research for two years.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/story.csc?article=12662" target="_blank">Akwanamnye</a>, a graduating&nbsp;<a href="https://csc.edu/sci/biology/inbre/index.csc" target="_blank">INBRE</a>&nbsp;student, has been accepted at Case Western where she will be doing graduate-level cancer research.Keithly said the&nbsp;students did an amazing job presenting their research.“They presented high-quality research and connected with fellow scientists from other Nebraska higher education institutions. I was very proud of everyone that participated both in-person and online,” Keithly said.Recent CSC graduates who conducted research and helped write presentations but did not travel to Lincoln included Lelisse Umeta, Feven Hailemariam, Alisha Huynh, and Joseph Keating.Faculty who contributed to or supervised research, but did not attend the conference include Dr. Tim Keith and Dr. Tawny Tibbits.PRESENTATIONSAeronautics and Space SciencesAn In Vitro Synthesis of Bacillithiol by Klammer and Keithly.Monoclonal Antibodies in Breastmilk of Vaccinated Women by Rosberg and Keithly.Applied Science and TechnologyUtilizing Yearling Weight and Heifer Pregnancy Expected Progeny Differences for Fertility Selection in Beef Heifers by Jersild and Buchmann.Biomedical SciencesNF-kB Signaling in Triple Negative Breast Cancer by Kruse, Akwanamnye, Umeta, Hailemariam, and Buchmann.Examining the role of Chlamydia Trachomatis in Altering Intro-Golgi Trafficking Kinetics by Akwanamnye and UNMC Associate Professor Dr. Elizabeth Rucks.Investigating Enzymatic Resistance to Fofomycin by FOSB in Gram-positive Bacteria by Huynh, Keating, and Keithly.ChemistryMitigation of Tooth Discoloration and Enamel Erosion from Chewing Tobacco by Hill and Keithly.Improving Elephant Toothpaste as an Educational Demonstration by Nelson and Keith.Earth SciencesCauses and Mitigation of Iron Deficiency Chlorosis in Soybeans (Glycine Max) by Knuth, Kiiskila, and Keithly.Water Sampling for the Know Your Well Project in Northwestern Nebraska by Griffin, Tibbits, Leite, and Keithly.Oil Potential in Western Nebraska by Tiensvold and Leite.

Chadron students, faculty present at Nebraska Academy of Sciences

At its May 3 meeting, Alliance City Council approved a resolution for financial assistance to help Keep Alliance Beautiful (KAB) continue recycling operations, after being denied funding from the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET). 

KAB was expecting $95,342 in funding from NET this year, after having received similar grants from the organization each year in the past decade.

The council authorized $12,500 to be transferred from contingency funds to KAB for the first quarter and continue through quarterly installments. 

KAB will receive $50,000 in total from the city for the 2022-2023 budget year. 

"They have received some other grant funds from other sources," Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson said. "But unfortunately, it requires a one-to-one match. And that is the part where the grant that they were unable to secure this year, would have come in handy because they could have used that as that one-to-one match. The intent is for that to be used as their one- to-one match. And hopefully this will get them through the next year and they can apply once again, for the grant (NET)."

KAB's recycling operation is vital in Alliance and the Panhandle. 

"One of the things that I have discovered in the last few months is that we're actually serving the entire region," Sorenson said. "We have people who drive from other counties to come here just to recycle."

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostAt its May 3 meeting, Alliance City Council approved a resolution for financial assistance to help Keep Alliance Beautiful (KAB) continue recycling operations, after being denied funding from the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET). KAB was expecting $95,342 in funding from NET this year, after having received similar grants from the organization each year in the past decade.The council authorized $12,500 to be transferred from contingency funds to KAB for the first quarter and continue through quarterly installments. KAB will receive $50,000 in total from the city for the 2022-2023 budget year. "They have received some other grant funds from other sources," Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson said. "But unfortunately, it requires a one-to-one match. And that is the part where the grant that they were unable to secure this year, would have come in handy because they could have used that as that one-to-one match. The intent is for that to be used as their one- to-one match. And hopefully this will get them through the next year and they can apply once again, for the grant (NET)."KAB's recycling operation is vital in Alliance and the Panhandle. "One of the things that I have discovered in the last few months is that we're actually serving the entire region," Sorenson said. "We have people who drive from other counties to come here just to recycle."

KAB receives funding from Alliance City Council

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte Post

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A teen driver was transported to the hospital after his vehicle struck a tree in North Platte on Thursday afternoon.

At around 4:45 p.m., police and fire personnel responded to a one-vehicle accident at the intersection of 4th Street and Sheridan Ave.

It was reported that a vehicle had left the roadway and struck a tree.

Reports indicate the 16-year-old male driver was traveling westbound on 4th Street when he suffered a medical emergency and struck the tree.

Airbags in the vehicle did deploy and the driver, and lone occupant of the vehicle, was wearing a seatbelt.

He was transported to Great Plains Health with injuries that aren't believed to be life-threatening.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651790081945.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-A teen driver was transported to the hospital after his vehicle struck a tree in North Platte on Thursday afternoon.At around 4:45 p.m., police and fire personnel responded to a one-vehicle accident at the intersection of 4th Street and Sheridan Ave.It was reported that a vehicle had left the roadway and struck a tree.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651790104749.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reports indicate the 16-year-old male driver was traveling westbound on 4th Street when he suffered a medical emergency and struck the tree.Airbags in the vehicle did deploy and the driver, and lone occupant of the vehicle, was wearing a seatbelt.He was transported to Great Plains Health with injuries that aren't believed to be life-threatening.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651790125737.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651790143945.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

One transported to hospital after car strikes tree in North Platte

KANSAS CITY, MO.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is teaming up with neighboring state patrols and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a special effort this Mother’s Day weekend. The&nbsp;Slow Down Move Over&nbsp;partnership reminds all drivers to obey the speed limit and to move over for emergency vehicles.

“Speeding is a major factor in many of the serious and fatal crashes we see on roadways in Nebraska and our neighboring states,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “In 2020 alone, 787 lives in our region were lost in speeding-related crashes. That’s why we’re reminding drivers to stay alert and follow the posted speed limits. Let’s work together and make sure everyone makes it home to mom safely this Mother’s Day.”

Nationally in 2020, 30% of all crash fatalities were related to speeding. According to NHTSA, a crash on a road with a speed limit of 65 mph or greater is more than twice as likely to be fatal than a crash on a road with a speed limit of 45 or 50 mph and nearly five times as likely on a road with a speed limit of 40 mph or below.

This weekend’s partnership includes troopers from the Arkansas State Police, Iowa State Patrol, Kansas Highway Patrol, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Nebraska State Patrol. Those states comprise Region 7 of NHTSA.

“As our troopers and partners work across the region, we ask the public to help keep them safe by following&nbsp;Move Over&nbsp;laws,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Those laws help protect law enforcement, other emergency responders, and tow operators while they perform their jobs on the road. Please help them also get home safely to their families by always moving over when you come upon an emergency vehicle working roadside.”

This Mother’s Day as you get behind the wheel, please remember to slow down and move over. For more information on speeding prevention, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding" target="_blank">www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding</a>.

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;KANSAS CITY, MO.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is teaming up with neighboring state patrols and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a special effort this Mother’s Day weekend. The&nbsp;Slow Down Move Over&nbsp;partnership reminds all drivers to obey the speed limit and to move over for emergency vehicles.“Speeding is a major factor in many of the serious and fatal crashes we see on roadways in Nebraska and our neighboring states,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “In 2020 alone, 787 lives in our region were lost in speeding-related crashes. That’s why we’re reminding drivers to stay alert and follow the posted speed limits. Let’s work together and make sure everyone makes it home to mom safely this Mother’s Day.”Nationally in 2020, 30% of all crash fatalities were related to speeding. According to NHTSA, a crash on a road with a speed limit of 65 mph or greater is more than twice as likely to be fatal than a crash on a road with a speed limit of 45 or 50 mph and nearly five times as likely on a road with a speed limit of 40 mph or below.This weekend’s partnership includes troopers from the Arkansas State Police, Iowa State Patrol, Kansas Highway Patrol, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Nebraska State Patrol. Those states comprise Region 7 of NHTSA.“As our troopers and partners work across the region, we ask the public to help keep them safe by following&nbsp;Move Over&nbsp;laws,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Those laws help protect law enforcement, other emergency responders, and tow operators while they perform their jobs on the road. Please help them also get home safely to their families by always moving over when you come upon an emergency vehicle working roadside.”This Mother’s Day as you get behind the wheel, please remember to slow down and move over. For more information on speeding prevention, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding" target="_blank">www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding</a>.

NSP: Make it home to Mom this Mother’s Day

Nebraskans have long been strong supporters of the right to keep and bear arms.&nbsp; Nearly 85 years after it was enshrined in the Second Amendment at the federal level, Nebraska’s leaders chose to make our stance on gun rights crystal clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Article I of the Nebraska Constitution proclaims that “the right to keep and bear arms for security or defense of self, family, home, and others, and for lawful common defense, hunting, recreational use, and all other lawful purposes...shall not be denied or infringed by the state or any subdivision thereof.” &nbsp;This should serve as the exclamation point on where Nebraska stands in its commitment to constitutional gun rights.

But we can do better for Nebraskans. &nbsp;Right now, law-abiding citizens must jump through burdensome hoops to carry a concealed firearm.&nbsp; Our Nebraska State Patrol has done a phenomenal job streamlining the permitting process.&nbsp; But statutory hurdles remain.&nbsp; Existing state law requires individuals wishing to carry their legally owned firearm to first complete a handgun training and safety course; fill out a concealed handgun permit application; and then travel to the nearest Nebraska State Patrol Troop Headquarters to submit the application and undergo fingerprinting and a background check.&nbsp; Then, they must wait until the application is processed and the permit is issued.&nbsp; At best, these steps are a nuisance to law-abiding citizens looking to exercise their Second Amendment rights.&nbsp; At worst, they are a barrier to those looking to protect themselves, such as victims of stalking or harassment.&nbsp; Under constitutional carry, law-abiding Nebraskans who have already undergone the background check needed to purchase a handgun would not have to wait for a permit to carry concealed.

Nebraska can join the growing number of states who’ve taken action to get rid of these restrictions.&nbsp; Alabama, Georgia, Ohio, and Indiana all enacted constitutional or permitless carry legislation in 2022.&nbsp; Nebraska’s neighboring states of Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, South Dakota, and Wyoming are also among the 25 states with constitutional or permitless carry laws.&nbsp; Over 120 million Americans live under these laws, with more states looking to enact them.&nbsp; Just last week, Governor Ron DeSantis held a press conference to call on Florida’s legislature to pass constitutional carry legislation.

This year, Senator Tom Brewer of Gordon introduced and prioritized LB 773 in an effort to bring constitutional carry to Nebraska.&nbsp; A solid majority of senators supported the bill, but it fell just two votes short of the 33 needed to overcome a filibuster.&nbsp; The final vote that failed to advance the bill was 31-9.&nbsp; All nine opponents were Democrats.

The typical arguments against constitutional carry simply don’t hold water.&nbsp; For example, concealed carry laws don’t decrease safety.&nbsp; The&nbsp;U.S. News and World Report&nbsp;has published public safety rankings for each state based on the FBI’s latest available data.&nbsp; The top three states for public safety are Maine, New Hampshire, and Idaho.&nbsp; All three are constitutional carry states.

Furthermore, constitutional carry legislation doesn’t mean abandoning common sense restrictions that prevent dangerous criminals from carrying guns.&nbsp; The legislation only seeks to eliminate regulations that require a&nbsp;law-abiding&nbsp;citizen&nbsp;to carry a permit while carrying their concealed firearm.&nbsp;

At the end of the day, constitutional carry is about rights.&nbsp; A citizen authorized by law to possess a firearm shouldn’t have to pay a fee and ask permission from the government to exercise their Second Amendment rights.

I’m confident it’s only a matter of time before constitutional carry comes to Nebraska.&nbsp; But it won’t happen without the determined activism of Second Amendment advocates in our state.&nbsp; I encourage Nebraskans to see how their senator voted on LB 773 by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraskalegislature.gov%2Fbills%2Fview_votes.php%3FKeyID%3D8166&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=hYtxDsCrtOkzQfgTOqW%2FSkfqd8HUYOTIbNNF6sE2cf0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;

The National Rifle Association also grades political candidates based on their support for Second Amendment rights.&nbsp; You can view those grades by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nrapvf.org%2Fgrades%2Fnebraska%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=25C7GNm5pmrKRBlvK%2FnRN4A6laODeelscoYii0LhEvM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

While we work on constitutional carry legislation in Nebraska, we also need to be forward thinking.&nbsp; To preserve our right to bear arms, we must individually pass on our love for and understanding of the Second Amendment to the next generation.&nbsp; The “Take ‘em Hunting” program offered by Nebraska Game and Parks is a great way to do this.&nbsp; The program encourages veteran hunters to take a beginner with them and pass their knowledge on.&nbsp; Hunters can submit a picture and story of their experience online to be entered in a drawing for prizes (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Ftakeemhunting&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=TnQShCOZssJTSFSwD5SH4KAXtXzBprRIGE%2BMa8bc0UU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/takeemhunting</a>). &nbsp;This program has been hugely successful. &nbsp;In just its third year, it’s already introduced more than 2,000 Nebraskans to hunting.&nbsp; This year, “Take ’em Hunting” will run through the end of the spring turkey season on May 31, 2022.&nbsp; So, when you go out to hunt this month, I encourage you to share your passion by taking someone with you.&nbsp;

Our freedom to keep and bear arms is rooted in the recognition that our rights are given to us by God, not by the government.&nbsp; These rights, declared in both our federal and state constitutions, shouldn’t be costly and time-consuming to exercise.&nbsp; Together, let’s work to end the lengthy delay and cost in order to conceal carry in Nebraska.

If you have questions about my support for Second Amendment rights, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Gov. Pete RickettsNebraskans have long been strong supporters of the right to keep and bear arms.&nbsp; Nearly 85 years after it was enshrined in the Second Amendment at the federal level, Nebraska’s leaders chose to make our stance on gun rights crystal clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Article I of the Nebraska Constitution proclaims that “the right to keep and bear arms for security or defense of self, family, home, and others, and for lawful common defense, hunting, recreational use, and all other lawful purposes...shall not be denied or infringed by the state or any subdivision thereof.” &nbsp;This should serve as the exclamation point on where Nebraska stands in its commitment to constitutional gun rights.But we can do better for Nebraskans. &nbsp;Right now, law-abiding citizens must jump through burdensome hoops to carry a concealed firearm.&nbsp; Our Nebraska State Patrol has done a phenomenal job streamlining the permitting process.&nbsp; But statutory hurdles remain.&nbsp; Existing state law requires individuals wishing to carry their legally owned firearm to first complete a handgun training and safety course; fill out a concealed handgun permit application; and then travel to the nearest Nebraska State Patrol Troop Headquarters to submit the application and undergo fingerprinting and a background check.&nbsp; Then, they must wait until the application is processed and the permit is issued.&nbsp; At best, these steps are a nuisance to law-abiding citizens looking to exercise their Second Amendment rights.&nbsp; At worst, they are a barrier to those looking to protect themselves, such as victims of stalking or harassment.&nbsp; Under constitutional carry, law-abiding Nebraskans who have already undergone the background check needed to purchase a handgun would not have to wait for a permit to carry concealed.Nebraska can join the growing number of states who’ve taken action to get rid of these restrictions.&nbsp; Alabama, Georgia, Ohio, and Indiana all enacted constitutional or permitless carry legislation in 2022.&nbsp; Nebraska’s neighboring states of Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, South Dakota, and Wyoming are also among the 25 states with constitutional or permitless carry laws.&nbsp; Over 120 million Americans live under these laws, with more states looking to enact them.&nbsp; Just last week, Governor Ron DeSantis held a press conference to call on Florida’s legislature to pass constitutional carry legislation.This year, Senator Tom Brewer of Gordon introduced and prioritized LB 773 in an effort to bring constitutional carry to Nebraska.&nbsp; A solid majority of senators supported the bill, but it fell just two votes short of the 33 needed to overcome a filibuster.&nbsp; The final vote that failed to advance the bill was 31-9.&nbsp; All nine opponents were Democrats.The typical arguments against constitutional carry simply don’t hold water.&nbsp; For example, concealed carry laws don’t decrease safety.&nbsp; The&nbsp;U.S. News and World Report&nbsp;has published public safety rankings for each state based on the FBI’s latest available data.&nbsp; The top three states for public safety are Maine, New Hampshire, and Idaho.&nbsp; All three are constitutional carry states.Furthermore, constitutional carry legislation doesn’t mean abandoning common sense restrictions that prevent dangerous criminals from carrying guns.&nbsp; The legislation only seeks to eliminate regulations that require a&nbsp;law-abiding&nbsp;citizen&nbsp;to carry a permit while carrying their concealed firearm.&nbsp;At the end of the day, constitutional carry is about rights.&nbsp; A citizen authorized by law to possess a firearm shouldn’t have to pay a fee and ask permission from the government to exercise their Second Amendment rights.I’m confident it’s only a matter of time before constitutional carry comes to Nebraska.&nbsp; But it won’t happen without the determined activism of Second Amendment advocates in our state.&nbsp; I encourage Nebraskans to see how their senator voted on LB 773 by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraskalegislature.gov%2Fbills%2Fview_votes.php%3FKeyID%3D8166&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=hYtxDsCrtOkzQfgTOqW%2FSkfqd8HUYOTIbNNF6sE2cf0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;The National Rifle Association also grades political candidates based on their support for Second Amendment rights.&nbsp; You can view those grades by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nrapvf.org%2Fgrades%2Fnebraska%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=25C7GNm5pmrKRBlvK%2FnRN4A6laODeelscoYii0LhEvM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.While we work on constitutional carry legislation in Nebraska, we also need to be forward thinking.&nbsp; To preserve our right to bear arms, we must individually pass on our love for and understanding of the Second Amendment to the next generation.&nbsp; The “Take ‘em Hunting” program offered by Nebraska Game and Parks is a great way to do this.&nbsp; The program encourages veteran hunters to take a beginner with them and pass their knowledge on.&nbsp; Hunters can submit a picture and story of their experience online to be entered in a drawing for prizes (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Ftakeemhunting&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Cae4f15a31b924e47e69908da2d33f96b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637871998531027446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=TnQShCOZssJTSFSwD5SH4KAXtXzBprRIGE%2BMa8bc0UU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/takeemhunting</a>). &nbsp;This program has been hugely successful. &nbsp;In just its third year, it’s already introduced more than 2,000 Nebraskans to hunting.&nbsp; This year, “Take ’em Hunting” will run through the end of the spring turkey season on May 31, 2022.&nbsp; So, when you go out to hunt this month, I encourage you to share your passion by taking someone with you.&nbsp;Our freedom to keep and bear arms is rooted in the recognition that our rights are given to us by God, not by the government.&nbsp; These rights, declared in both our federal and state constitutions, shouldn’t be costly and time-consuming to exercise.&nbsp; Together, let’s work to end the lengthy delay and cost in order to conceal carry in Nebraska.If you have questions about my support for Second Amendment rights, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ricketts: Enhancing NE’s commitment to protecting second amendment rights

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 5/5/22

Celebrate Recovery Leader Victor Sanchez discusses the counseling program and their upcoming open house.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Celebrate Recovery" 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=jww7h-121bb0d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Celebrate Recovery Leader Victor Sanchez discusses the counseling program and their upcoming open house.

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