The Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (UNWNRD) along with the Nebraska Chapter of the Society of Range Management and the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) partnered to host the 2022 State Range Judging Contest held on September 28th and 29th near Chadron, Nebraska. The Range Judging Contest allows participants to test their knowledge of range plants and specific major land resource areas (MLRA) within a topographic region. Within each area’s contest, participants are asked to identify a total of 24 plants as well as answer questions regarding the chosen MLRA sites. A total of six area contests are held each fall across the state of Nebraska. Participants do not need to qualify at an area contest to compete at the State Contest. The day prior to the contest, participants had the chance to practice at a site located near Chadron State College Rangeland Complex. This allowed those participants not necessarily familiar to the Northwest Nebraska area, gain an idea of what they could be tested on at the contest the next day.

The contest is divided into three divisions: Senior division is categorized as those participants that are a high school junior or senior; Junior division is categorized as those participants that are either a sophomore or below in class standing; and the adult division are those contestants who have graduated from high school. The State Range Judging contest hosted a total of 401 participants (168 seniors, 208 juniors and 25 in the adult division) from around the state the farthest traveling upwards of six hours to attend.

• Ord High School was the Reserve team,

Contestants’ scores were then calculated into individual scores;

5. Isaac Hagen, St. Paul High School- 5th,

1. There was a tie for 1st: Jack Thede, St. Paul and Cale Buss, Burwell FFA

In the Adult Division, West Holt FFA advisor, David Gibbens was 1st; St. Paul’s Boyd Bowder was 2nd; Burwell’s FFA advisor Phil Simpson was 3rd; Boyd County’s Roger Lechtenberg was 4th; Colin Kubik of Norris High School place 5th; Ord’s Dave Ference was 6th; and Caleb tenBensel of Broken Bow FFA was 7th. The Champion and Reserve Champion teams have a chance to attend the National Range Judging Contest held the Spring of 2023.

Tricia Goes, Conservation Programs Specialist of UNWNRD, stated “Being selected to host the 2022 State Range Judging Contest was an honor for our District. There is so much to offer in the beautiful Northwest corner of Nebraska. The contest was a challenge for some, not only allowing travel time, but the vastly different topography and plant types offered. It was an excitement filled couple days!”

By Upper Niobrara White NRDThe Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (UNWNRD) along with the Nebraska Chapter of the Society of Range Management and the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) partnered to host the 2022 State Range Judging Contest held on September 28th and 29th near Chadron, Nebraska. The Range Judging Contest allows participants to test their knowledge of range plants and specific major land resource areas (MLRA) within a topographic region. Within each area’s contest, participants are asked to identify a total of 24 plants as well as answer questions regarding the chosen MLRA sites. A total of six area contests are held each fall across the state of Nebraska. Participants do not need to qualify at an area contest to compete at the State Contest. The day prior to the contest, participants had the chance to practice at a site located near Chadron State College Rangeland Complex. This allowed those participants not necessarily familiar to the Northwest Nebraska area, gain an idea of what they could be tested on at the contest the next day.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665758842632.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The contest is divided into three divisions: Senior division is categorized as those participants that are a high school junior or senior; Junior division is categorized as those participants that are either a sophomore or below in class standing; and the adult division are those contestants who have graduated from high school. The State Range Judging contest hosted a total of 401 participants (168 seniors, 208 juniors and 25 in the adult division) from around the state the farthest traveling upwards of six hours to attend.In the Senior Division,• West Holt FFA was the Champion team,• Ord High School was the Reserve team,• St. Paul came in third and• Burwell FFA was fourth.Contestants’ scores were then calculated into individual scores;1. Sidney Burkinshaw, West Holt FFA-1st,2. Addie Karo, West Holt FFA- 2nd,3. Ryder Reineke, Ord High School-3rd,4. Adam Knapp, Ord High School-4th,5. Isaac Hagen, St. Paul High School- 5th,6. Isaac Pistulka, West Holt FFA- 6th,7. Hayes Jensen, Burwell FFA- 7th.In the Junior Division,• West Holt FFA was the Champion team• Burwell FFA was Reserve, and• St. Paul came in third and• Sargent FFA was fourth.Contestants’ scores were then calculated into individual scores;1. There was a tie for 1st: Jack Thede, St. Paul and Cale Buss, Burwell FFA2. Nick Hansen, West Holt FFA-2 nd ,3. Owen Wess, Chadron FFA- 3 rd ,4. Makenna Schaaf, West Holt FFA- 4 th ,5. Cody Burson, Burwell FFA-5 th ,6. Drake Nemetz, West Holt FFA-6 th ,7. Lily Vogel, West Holt FFA-7 th . In the Adult Division, West Holt FFA advisor, David Gibbens was 1st; St. Paul’s Boyd Bowder was 2nd; Burwell’s FFA advisor Phil Simpson was 3rd; Boyd County’s Roger Lechtenberg was 4th; Colin Kubik of Norris High School place 5th; Ord’s Dave Ference was 6th; and Caleb tenBensel of Broken Bow FFA was 7th. The Champion and Reserve Champion teams have a chance to attend the National Range Judging Contest held the Spring of 2023.Tricia Goes, Conservation Programs Specialist of UNWNRD, stated “Being selected to host the 2022 State Range Judging Contest was an honor for our District. There is so much to offer in the beautiful Northwest corner of Nebraska. The contest was a challenge for some, not only allowing travel time, but the vastly different topography and plant types offered. It was an excitement filled couple days!”

Upper Niobrara White NRD, NRCS hosts State Range Judging Contest

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/10/14/legion-members-protest-pardon-for-fellow-veteran-for-heinous-sex-assault/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A group of American Legion members are 
protesting the September pardon of a fellow Legion member, saying that 
John Arias didn’t deserve a pardon for a violent, 1993 sex assault and 
that Arias used other Legion members to win the pardon.

On Sept. 19, the Nebraska Board of Pardons voted 2-1 to 
grant Arias a pardon, a formal act of forgiveness that allows his name 
to be removed from the state’s Sex Offender Registry and restores his 
voting and gun rights.

The members of the Pardons Board, before they voted, noted
 the support shown by about 20 American Legion members who sat together 
at the meeting. They wore their signature Legion caps, to show their 
support of Arias, who sits on a state veteran affairs and rehabilitation
 committee.

A former state Legion commander said that not all Legion 
members supported the pardon of a sex offender and that the Legion cap 
is only supposed to be worn at official or Legion-sponsored functions.&nbsp;

 Beth Linn of Scottsbluff, who served as state Legion commander from 2016-17, also said that while Arias has claimed the sexual assault was a “misunderstanding,” it was far from it.

“Raping your wife in front of her kids while she’s tied to a bed is not a misunderstanding,” Linn said.

A group of Legion members, including Linn, have planned a “peaceful protest” of the pardon on Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. at the Nebraska State Capitol.

Gov. Pete Ricketts, who chairs the Pardons Board and voted to pardon Arias, said in a statement that Arias has accepted responsibility for a crime committed nearly 30 years ago and “has shown to be remorseful.”

“He has not had any offenses since 
serving his sentence and has since become an active member of the 
veteran community, helping others who suffer from PTSD,” Ricketts said 
in a statement, noting the support by veterans at the Pardons Board 
hearing.

Attorney General Doug Peterson, who also 
voted for the Arias pardon, deferred comment to the governor. Secretary 
of State Bob Evnen voted “no.”

When contacted by the Examiner, Don 
Suchy, the current state commander of the American Legion and one of 
those who attended the Pardons Board hearing in support of Arias, said 
that the Legion does not condone violence but that Arias, since serving 
out his prison sentence, had been a “model citizen” and a mentor to 
other veterans to reform their lives.

“We support him in leading a productive and law-abiding life,” Suchy 
said in an email. “Since his release, he has sought only to better 
himself to society.”

While he said he wasn’t fully aware of Arias’ crime, Suchy questioned
 whether Arias was a victim of “overzealous prosecution” and whether it 
made a difference that he suffered from PTSD.

Concerning Legion caps, he said that they are typically worn only at 
official meetings but that “the wearing of a Legion cap only indicates 
the individual wearing the cap is in uniform.”

“Nebraska Legionnaires showed up to support the individual’s 
transformation,” Suchy said, adding that they didn’t have a “vote or 
voice” in the Pardon Board’s decision.

Messages left seeking comment from Arias, 57, of Grand Island, were not returned.

He was convicted of first-degree sexual assault in 1994.&nbsp;

Court records indicate that he broke into the Ogallala home of his estranged wife, then terrorized her with a knife. He tied her to a bed and sexually assaulted
 while their children, ages 5 and 7, were in the home. Arias then took 
the children and fled to Texas, leaving his wife bound and gagged.

&nbsp;He was sentenced to 15-30 years in prison, a sentence he completed in 2008.

At the Pardons Board hearing, Arias, a former Marine who 
served in the Gulf War, noted that he has been active in supporting 
fellow veterans. He was quoted in a recent Grand Island Independent 
story about the launching of veterans treatment court in Adams County as
 an alternative to prison for veterans who commit crimes.

A check of state court records indicate that Arias has not
 been charged with any criminal offenses since 1993. But he was very 
active in filing civil lawsuits while in prison and shortly afterwards. 
At least 15 times, he sued state prison officials and members of the 
Nebraska Parole Board.

&nbsp;In 2009,&nbsp;Arias,
 also legally contested the determination that he was a “dangerous” sex 
offender who warranted lifetime listing on the sex offender registry 
maintained by the Nebraska State Patrol.

Arias argued that prison psychologists deemed that he was 
not a threat to reoffend. Arias did acknowledge that he suffered from 
post-traumatic stress disorder, but he said that didn’t represent a 
threat to society, either.&nbsp;

Linn, and a press release from a group of Legion members 
called “What About Us?” stated that they opposed pardons for sex 
offenders because it is against their “morals and ethical standards.” 
Arias’ crime, they added, was “very heinous.”

The group, in its press release, asked, “What if it was your loved one?”

The group said that Legion caps should not have been worn
 at the Pardons Board hearing and that all Legion members should have 
been informed before such a demonstration of support was made.

&nbsp;‘This was kept pretty quiet. It was not made public to the body of Legion members of Nebraska,” Linn said.

She added that the pardon set a very bad precedent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665755813882.png" alt="Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts presided over the Nebraska Board of Pardons hearing in September. (Jazari Kual/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts presided over the Nebraska Board of Pardons hearing in September. (Jazari Kual/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/10/14/legion-members-protest-pardon-for-fellow-veteran-for-heinous-sex-assault/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A group of American Legion members are 
protesting the September pardon of a fellow Legion member, saying that 
John Arias didn’t deserve a pardon for a violent, 1993 sex assault and 
that Arias used other Legion members to win the pardon.On Sept. 19, the Nebraska Board of Pardons voted 2-1 to 
grant Arias a pardon, a formal act of forgiveness that allows his name 
to be removed from the state’s Sex Offender Registry and restores his 
voting and gun rights.The members of the Pardons Board, before they voted, noted
 the support shown by about 20 American Legion members who sat together 
at the meeting. They wore their signature Legion caps, to show their 
support of Arias, who sits on a state veteran affairs and rehabilitation
 committee.<h2>Not a ‘misunderstanding’</h2>A former state Legion commander said that not all Legion 
members supported the pardon of a sex offender and that the Legion cap 
is only supposed to be worn at official or Legion-sponsored functions.&nbsp; Beth Linn of Scottsbluff, who served as state Legion commander from 2016-17, also said that while Arias has claimed the sexual assault was a “misunderstanding,” it was far from it.“Raping your wife in front of her kids while she’s tied to a bed is not a misunderstanding,” Linn said.A group of Legion members, including Linn, have planned a “peaceful protest” of the pardon on Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. at the Nebraska State Capitol.<h2>Showed remorse, Ricketts said</h2>Gov. Pete Ricketts, who chairs the Pardons Board and voted to pardon Arias, said in a statement that Arias has accepted responsibility for a crime committed nearly 30 years ago and “has shown to be remorseful.”“He has not had any offenses since 
serving his sentence and has since become an active member of the 
veteran community, helping others who suffer from PTSD,” Ricketts said 
in a statement, noting the support by veterans at the Pardons Board 
hearing.Attorney General Doug Peterson, who also 
voted for the Arias pardon, deferred comment to the governor. Secretary 
of State Bob Evnen voted “no.”When contacted by the Examiner, Don 
Suchy, the current state commander of the American Legion and one of 
those who attended the Pardons Board hearing in support of Arias, said 
that the Legion does not condone violence but that Arias, since serving 
out his prison sentence, had been a “model citizen” and a mentor to 
other veterans to reform their lives.<h2>Now leading a ‘law-abiding life’</h2>“We support him in leading a productive and law-abiding life,” Suchy 
said in an email. “Since his release, he has sought only to better 
himself to society.”While he said he wasn’t fully aware of Arias’ crime, Suchy questioned
 whether Arias was a victim of “overzealous prosecution” and whether it 
made a difference that he suffered from PTSD.Concerning Legion caps, he said that they are typically worn only at 
official meetings but that “the wearing of a Legion cap only indicates 
the individual wearing the cap is in uniform.”“Nebraska Legionnaires showed up to support the individual’s 
transformation,” Suchy said, adding that they didn’t have a “vote or 
voice” in the Pardon Board’s decision.<h2>Broke into home</h2>Messages left seeking comment from Arias, 57, of Grand Island, were not returned.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665755875952.png" alt="John Arias (Courtesy of the Nebraska State Patrol)" />
 <figcaption>John Arias (Courtesy of the Nebraska State Patrol)</figcaption>
 </figure>He was convicted of first-degree sexual assault in 1994.&nbsp;Court records indicate that he broke into the Ogallala home of his estranged wife, then terrorized her with a knife. He tied her to a bed and sexually assaulted
 while their children, ages 5 and 7, were in the home. Arias then took 
the children and fled to Texas, leaving his wife bound and gagged.&nbsp;He was sentenced to 15-30 years in prison, a sentence he completed in 2008.At the Pardons Board hearing, Arias, a former Marine who 
served in the Gulf War, noted that he has been active in supporting 
fellow veterans. He was quoted in a recent Grand Island Independent 
story about the launching of veterans treatment court in Adams County as
 an alternative to prison for veterans who commit crimes.<h2>Contested his listing</h2>A check of state court records indicate that Arias has not
 been charged with any criminal offenses since 1993. But he was very 
active in filing civil lawsuits while in prison and shortly afterwards. 
At least 15 times, he sued state prison officials and members of the 
Nebraska Parole Board.&nbsp;In 2009,&nbsp;Arias,
 also legally contested the determination that he was a “dangerous” sex 
offender who warranted lifetime listing on the sex offender registry 
maintained by the Nebraska State Patrol.Arias argued that prison psychologists deemed that he was 
not a threat to reoffend. Arias did acknowledge that he suffered from 
post-traumatic stress disorder, but he said that didn’t represent a 
threat to society, either.&nbsp;<h2>Assault was ‘very heinous’</h2>Linn, and a press release from a group of Legion members 
called “What About Us?” stated that they opposed pardons for sex 
offenders because it is against their “morals and ethical standards.” 
Arias’ crime, they added, was “very heinous.”The group, in its press release, asked, “What if it was your loved one?”The group said that Legion caps should not have been worn
 at the Pardons Board hearing and that all Legion members should have 
been informed before such a demonstration of support was made.&nbsp;‘This was kept pretty quiet. It was not made public to the body of Legion members of Nebraska,” Linn said.She added that the pardon set a very bad precedent.

Legion members protest pardon for veteran for ‘heinous’ sex assault

Alliance – The City of Alliance will be hosting a public meeting to gather community input regarding future projects and improvements to recreation areas. 

All residents are encouraged to attend to provide ideas and suggestions to guide the development of long range project planning for our community. The meeting will be held on November 7 at 5:30pm at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center.

Please call Joan or Shana at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center at 308-762-2384 with any questions you may have.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The City of Alliance will be hosting a public meeting to gather community input regarding future projects and improvements to recreation areas. All residents are encouraged to attend to provide ideas and suggestions to guide the development of long range project planning for our community. The meeting will be held on November 7 at 5:30pm at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center.Please call Joan or Shana at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center at 308-762-2384 with any questions you may have.

Public meeting to be held to discuss future Alliance recreation area projects

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The lack of some benefits most American workers can readily count on, like paid sick leave and regularly scheduled weekends, is driving some railroad workers to veto contracts that include hefty raises and $5,000 bonuses.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-0744cffe919f0d48fcc02d16c8a298b3">This week’s vote</a>&nbsp;by the third-largest railroad union against their contract raised the possibility that a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-strike-impact-5eb6747b3e4b4e39d764644d6377121d">crippling nationwide strike</a>&nbsp;could still happen even though the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division union pledged to negotiate more before considering walking off the job.

All 12 railroad unions must approve the contract to avoid a strike. Six smaller railroad unions have now approved their agreements with the major freight railroads after the National Conference of Firemen &amp; Oilers ratified their deal Thursday.

But the workers with the most concerns about demanding schedules that have them on call 24-7 — engineers and conductors, nearly one-third of rail workers — won’t vote until next month.

Ultimately Congress may step in to block a strike and impose a contract if the two sides can’t reach agreements.

The five-year deals include 24% raises, which are the biggest in more than four decades, and closely follow the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-strikes-a83dffef79d38e36dc25588b19bf54b4">recommendations of a special board of arbitrators</a>&nbsp;appointed by President Joe Biden this summer. However, those recommendations generally don’t resolve workers’ scheduling and workload concerns, especially as the major railroads have eliminated nearly one-third of their workers over the past six years. Railroads have been reluctant to offer much more than that board recommended, although they did agree to give engineers and conductors three unpaid days off a year to tend to medical appointments as long as they give 30 days notice.

Conductors and engineers clearly have the worst schedules that can lack weekends because railroads cannot predict exactly when trains will be ready to leave, and because trains run around the clock. The electricians, mechanics, and other employees based in a set location have more regular schedules, but they say their work has also become more demanding.

Currently, rail employees can take days off for any reason, but those days are generally unpaid and workers might be docked under the railroad's attendance rules. And it’s hard to get paid leave or vacation days approved unless workers plan far ahead and have the seniority to secure them, so that makes those kind of leave days nearly impossible to use for a sick day. That’s why some workers question the value of the one additional paid leave day these contracts offer even though it would be the first improvement to that leave time since 1981.

“When I go to take them (personal leave days), every time without fail: ‘Oh, the crew supply doesn’t meet demand. We’re denying it.’ You’ve got to try to plan them in advance — ahead. So you can’t use those for your sick days,” said Paul Lindsey, a longtime Union Pacific engineer based in Pocatello, Idaho, who is active with the Railroad Workers United group that’s campaigning against the proposed contracts.

Electrician Shelly Nunemaker wants to see BNSF ease the tight attendance rules engineers and conductors work under before those could get imposed on her job, and she says the railroad should provide paid sick leave.

“They’re going to have to get a handle on this kind of thing before it gets worse and before it trickles down to us because eventually there won’t be anybody to fix those choo-choos that people need to drive around,” said Nunemaker, who wanted to vote “no” on the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers contract but said she never received a ballot. That has her questioning the validity of that vote because several coworkers also allegedly didn't get ballots.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-5123fda3d039543700b23d939e0bdda2">strict attendance policies</a>&nbsp;that some railroads use that dock certain employees points for missing work for almost any reason have been a key concern for the unions this year because workers can be disciplined after losing all their points. The railroads maintain those systems are needed to ensure they have enough crews available, and they say the systems give workers flexibility to take some days off as long as they manage their points.

The Association of American Railroads trade group notes that rail workers do have some sickness benefits that kick in after a waiting period of four or seven days, and unions actually traded away some paid sick days in the 1970s to get better short-term disability benefits. But the unions say the pandemic — when railroads temporarily offered paid leave for COVID absences — highlighted the need for paid sick time.

Track maintenance worker Matt Mortensen said that when his three boys were younger, he had to use nearly all his vacation time to take care of sick kids. Then if he did take vacation, it had to be unpaid time off.

“To me it’s weird working for a company that is so profitable and not have sick days,” said Mortensen, who has worked for BNSF for 17 years in the Kansas City area and voted no on the BMWED contract.

All the major railroads have been reporting sizeable profits and BNSF said it made just over $3 billion in the first half of this year.

Issues with scheduling and time off have increasingly become top negotiating concerns coming out of the pandemic, but rarely are the issues as glaring as they are on the railroads. Virginia Commonwealth University professor Victor Chen said the railroads’ intense focus on a lean operating model that relies on fewer, longer trains with fewer locomotives and employees has “made formerly good jobs atrociously bad.”

“Over the years, they’ve laid off workers in droves while expecting those who remain to do much more,” said Chen, a sociologist who studies labor issues. “They’ve imposed schedules that are wildly unpredictable because it means they can squeeze more out of each worker. They’ve put in place insane attendance policies that would never fly in white-collar workplaces.”

The working conditions on railroads have even attracted the attention of top policymakers. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi condemned all the job cuts when she spoke at the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen convention this week in Las Vegas.

“Railroad corporations are making obscene profits on the backs of its workers,” Pelosi said. “You shouldn’t get fired for staying home when you get sick.”

Lindsey, the Union Pacific engineer, said he doesn’t think the unions are asking for too much.

“We just want our pay to keep up with inflation and have the ability to take days off when we need them,” he said. “I think that’s totally reasonable.”

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The lack of some benefits most American workers can readily count on, like paid sick leave and regularly scheduled weekends, is driving some railroad workers to veto contracts that include hefty raises and $5,000 bonuses.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-0744cffe919f0d48fcc02d16c8a298b3">This week’s vote</a>&nbsp;by the third-largest railroad union against their contract raised the possibility that a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-strike-impact-5eb6747b3e4b4e39d764644d6377121d">crippling nationwide strike</a>&nbsp;could still happen even though the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division union pledged to negotiate more before considering walking off the job.All 12 railroad unions must approve the contract to avoid a strike. Six smaller railroad unions have now approved their agreements with the major freight railroads after the National Conference of Firemen &amp; Oilers ratified their deal Thursday.But the workers with the most concerns about demanding schedules that have them on call 24-7 — engineers and conductors, nearly one-third of rail workers — won’t vote until next month.Ultimately Congress may step in to block a strike and impose a contract if the two sides can’t reach agreements.The five-year deals include 24% raises, which are the biggest in more than four decades, and closely follow the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-strikes-a83dffef79d38e36dc25588b19bf54b4">recommendations of a special board of arbitrators</a>&nbsp;appointed by President Joe Biden this summer. However, those recommendations generally don’t resolve workers’ scheduling and workload concerns, especially as the major railroads have eliminated nearly one-third of their workers over the past six years. Railroads have been reluctant to offer much more than that board recommended, although they did agree to give engineers and conductors three unpaid days off a year to tend to medical appointments as long as they give 30 days notice.Conductors and engineers clearly have the worst schedules that can lack weekends because railroads cannot predict exactly when trains will be ready to leave, and because trains run around the clock. The electricians, mechanics, and other employees based in a set location have more regular schedules, but they say their work has also become more demanding.Currently, rail employees can take days off for any reason, but those days are generally unpaid and workers might be docked under the railroad's attendance rules. And it’s hard to get paid leave or vacation days approved unless workers plan far ahead and have the seniority to secure them, so that makes those kind of leave days nearly impossible to use for a sick day. That’s why some workers question the value of the one additional paid leave day these contracts offer even though it would be the first improvement to that leave time since 1981.“When I go to take them (personal leave days), every time without fail: ‘Oh, the crew supply doesn’t meet demand. We’re denying it.’ You’ve got to try to plan them in advance — ahead. So you can’t use those for your sick days,” said Paul Lindsey, a longtime Union Pacific engineer based in Pocatello, Idaho, who is active with the Railroad Workers United group that’s campaigning against the proposed contracts.Electrician Shelly Nunemaker wants to see BNSF ease the tight attendance rules engineers and conductors work under before those could get imposed on her job, and she says the railroad should provide paid sick leave.“They’re going to have to get a handle on this kind of thing before it gets worse and before it trickles down to us because eventually there won’t be anybody to fix those choo-choos that people need to drive around,” said Nunemaker, who wanted to vote “no” on the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers contract but said she never received a ballot. That has her questioning the validity of that vote because several coworkers also allegedly didn't get ballots.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-5123fda3d039543700b23d939e0bdda2">strict attendance policies</a>&nbsp;that some railroads use that dock certain employees points for missing work for almost any reason have been a key concern for the unions this year because workers can be disciplined after losing all their points. The railroads maintain those systems are needed to ensure they have enough crews available, and they say the systems give workers flexibility to take some days off as long as they manage their points.The Association of American Railroads trade group notes that rail workers do have some sickness benefits that kick in after a waiting period of four or seven days, and unions actually traded away some paid sick days in the 1970s to get better short-term disability benefits. But the unions say the pandemic — when railroads temporarily offered paid leave for COVID absences — highlighted the need for paid sick time.Track maintenance worker Matt Mortensen said that when his three boys were younger, he had to use nearly all his vacation time to take care of sick kids. Then if he did take vacation, it had to be unpaid time off.“To me it’s weird working for a company that is so profitable and not have sick days,” said Mortensen, who has worked for BNSF for 17 years in the Kansas City area and voted no on the BMWED contract.All the major railroads have been reporting sizeable profits and BNSF said it made just over $3 billion in the first half of this year.Issues with scheduling and time off have increasingly become top negotiating concerns coming out of the pandemic, but rarely are the issues as glaring as they are on the railroads. Virginia Commonwealth University professor Victor Chen said the railroads’ intense focus on a lean operating model that relies on fewer, longer trains with fewer locomotives and employees has “made formerly good jobs atrociously bad.”“Over the years, they’ve laid off workers in droves while expecting those who remain to do much more,” said Chen, a sociologist who studies labor issues. “They’ve imposed schedules that are wildly unpredictable because it means they can squeeze more out of each worker. They’ve put in place insane attendance policies that would never fly in white-collar workplaces.”The working conditions on railroads have even attracted the attention of top policymakers. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi condemned all the job cuts when she spoke at the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen convention this week in Las Vegas.“Railroad corporations are making obscene profits on the backs of its workers,” Pelosi said. “You shouldn’t get fired for staying home when you get sick.”Lindsey, the Union Pacific engineer, said he doesn’t think the unions are asking for too much.“We just want our pay to keep up with inflation and have the ability to take days off when we need them,” he said. “I think that’s totally reasonable.”

Quality of life concerns weigh heavily on rail contract vote

United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Rogelio Salas, Jr., 26, of Weslaco, Texas, was sentenced today by United States District Judge John M. Gerrard to 33 months’ imprisonment for threatening to shoot employees and a specific victim who worked at the McCook, Nebraska Wal-Mart.&nbsp; After Salas, Jr.’s release from prison, he will begin a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

On January 8, 2022, Salas, Jr. indicated he was outside the Wal-Mart with firearms and explosives and stated that he was going to enter the store with the weapons to kill the victim.&nbsp; Salas, Jr. made multiple threatening calls to the store, and the store evacuated all employees and customers as a result of the threats.&nbsp; Investigation revealed that Salas, Jr. was, in fact, in the State of Texas at the time that the threatening calls were made to the Nebraska retailer.

Salas, Jr. began a campaign of threatening and harassing the victim that started when the victim refused to play online video games anymore with Salas, Jr. because Salas, Jr. was using homosexual slurs during the video game sessions that offended the victim.&nbsp; Once the victim stopped playing online games with Salas, Jr., Salas Jr. began to contact the victim on social media and determined the victim’s specific workplace at the McCook area Wal-Mart.&nbsp; Salas, Jr. pled guilty to transmitting threats in interstate commerce on July 21, 2022.

For this conduct, Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Salas, Jr. to a term of 33 months in federal prison, the longest sentence authorized by Salas, Jr.’s plea of guilty.&nbsp; Judge Gerrard noted the disturbing frequency of threat cases coming before him recently and issued the sentence in part because of the fear that the defendant caused in all of the individuals at the Wal-Mart store that day and because it was all unnecessarily done over a video game dispute.

This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian" target="_blank">https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian</a>.

This case was investigated by North Platte FBI and the McCook Police Department.

By United States Attorney OfficeUnited States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Rogelio Salas, Jr., 26, of Weslaco, Texas, was sentenced today by United States District Judge John M. Gerrard to 33 months’ imprisonment for threatening to shoot employees and a specific victim who worked at the McCook, Nebraska Wal-Mart.&nbsp; After Salas, Jr.’s release from prison, he will begin a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.On January 8, 2022, Salas, Jr. indicated he was outside the Wal-Mart with firearms and explosives and stated that he was going to enter the store with the weapons to kill the victim.&nbsp; Salas, Jr. made multiple threatening calls to the store, and the store evacuated all employees and customers as a result of the threats.&nbsp; Investigation revealed that Salas, Jr. was, in fact, in the State of Texas at the time that the threatening calls were made to the Nebraska retailer.Salas, Jr. began a campaign of threatening and harassing the victim that started when the victim refused to play online video games anymore with Salas, Jr. because Salas, Jr. was using homosexual slurs during the video game sessions that offended the victim.&nbsp; Once the victim stopped playing online games with Salas, Jr., Salas Jr. began to contact the victim on social media and determined the victim’s specific workplace at the McCook area Wal-Mart.&nbsp; Salas, Jr. pled guilty to transmitting threats in interstate commerce on July 21, 2022.For this conduct, Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Salas, Jr. to a term of 33 months in federal prison, the longest sentence authorized by Salas, Jr.’s plea of guilty.&nbsp; Judge Gerrard noted the disturbing frequency of threat cases coming before him recently and issued the sentence in part because of the fear that the defendant caused in all of the individuals at the Wal-Mart store that day and because it was all unnecessarily done over a video game dispute.This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian" target="_blank">https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian</a>.This case was investigated by North Platte FBI and the McCook Police Department.

Texas man sentenced for threatening to shoot people at McCook Wal-Mart   

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A fifth union has now ratified its deal with the major freight railroads just days after one of the largest rail unions rejected their tentative agreement.

The Mechanical and Engineering Department of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation workers union voted Wednesday to approve its five-year contract that includes 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses. Now five of the 12 rail unions have approved their agreements with the railroads and a sixth one is set to vote Thursday, but all 12 have to endorse their deals to prevent a strike that would devastate the economy.

Fears of a strike were renewed earlier this week when the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division union voted down its contract, but there is no immediate threat of a walkout because that union agreed to delay any action until at least mid November to allow time to renegotiate a new deal.

The agreements the unions are voting on include the largest raises workers have seen in more than four decades, but the tentative deals don't resolve most of the members' quality of life concerns about strict schedules, the lack of paid time off and demanding workloads after the railroads eliminated some 45,000 jobs over the past six years.

The negotiations included roughly 115,000 workers at Norfolk Southern, CSX, BNSF, Union Pacific, Kansas City Southern and other railroads.

The general president of the SMART-MD union, Joseph Sellers Jr., promised to keep fighting to get workers the “wages, benefits and working conditions that they deserve for keeping the American economy running.”

The railroads play such an important role delivering raw materials and finished products that most businesses rely on that President Joe Biden intervened in the contract talks last month and put pressure on both sides to reach agreements before a mid-September strike deadline.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A fifth union has now ratified its deal with the major freight railroads just days after one of the largest rail unions rejected their tentative agreement.The Mechanical and Engineering Department of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation workers union voted Wednesday to approve its five-year contract that includes 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses. Now five of the 12 rail unions have approved their agreements with the railroads and a sixth one is set to vote Thursday, but all 12 have to endorse their deals to prevent a strike that would devastate the economy.Fears of a strike were renewed earlier this week when the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division union voted down its contract, but there is no immediate threat of a walkout because that union agreed to delay any action until at least mid November to allow time to renegotiate a new deal.The agreements the unions are voting on include the largest raises workers have seen in more than four decades, but the tentative deals don't resolve most of the members' quality of life concerns about strict schedules, the lack of paid time off and demanding workloads after the railroads eliminated some 45,000 jobs over the past six years.The negotiations included roughly 115,000 workers at Norfolk Southern, CSX, BNSF, Union Pacific, Kansas City Southern and other railroads.The general president of the SMART-MD union, Joseph Sellers Jr., promised to keep fighting to get workers the “wages, benefits and working conditions that they deserve for keeping the American economy running.”The railroads play such an important role delivering raw materials and finished products that most businesses rely on that President Joe Biden intervened in the contract talks last month and put pressure on both sides to reach agreements before a mid-September strike deadline.

5 of 12 unions have approved deals with freight railroads

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson and the Nebraska State Patrol are pleased to announce a new, local hotline designed for the public to report suspected sex trafficking or labor trafficking. The Nebraska Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached 24 hours per day at 833-PLS-LOOK (833-757-5665).

The Nebraska Human Trafficking Hotline is designed to receive tips on possible human trafficking and quickly direct the information to local investigators. Tips can be made anonymously and go directly to the Nebraska Information Analysis Center, a division of the Nebraska State Patrol.

“This new hotline is the result of a continuous partnership between NSP, the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force, and the Attorney General’s Office, seeking to disrupt the evil that is human trafficking,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Public reports can be the key to saving victims, interrupting trafficking operations, and prosecuting offenders. We urge anyone who spots the signs of human trafficking to report it immediately.”

Those seeking victim services are still urged to call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.

Visit the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office website for more information about the&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/nebraska-human-trafficking-task-force" target="_blank">Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force</a>, including information on how to identify the signs of trafficking, how to get involved, and how to get help.

By Nebraska State PatrolLINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson and the Nebraska State Patrol are pleased to announce a new, local hotline designed for the public to report suspected sex trafficking or labor trafficking. The Nebraska Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached 24 hours per day at 833-PLS-LOOK (833-757-5665).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665681196668.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Nebraska Human Trafficking Hotline is designed to receive tips on possible human trafficking and quickly direct the information to local investigators. Tips can be made anonymously and go directly to the Nebraska Information Analysis Center, a division of the Nebraska State Patrol.“This new hotline is the result of a continuous partnership between NSP, the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force, and the Attorney General’s Office, seeking to disrupt the evil that is human trafficking,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Public reports can be the key to saving victims, interrupting trafficking operations, and prosecuting offenders. We urge anyone who spots the signs of human trafficking to report it immediately.”Those seeking victim services are still urged to call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.Visit the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office website for more information about the&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/nebraska-human-trafficking-task-force" target="_blank">Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force</a>, including information on how to identify the signs of trafficking, how to get involved, and how to get help.

Nebraska launches new human trafficking hotline

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 10/13/22

SCOTTSBLUFF -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College will host a five-day training course in November for certified fiber optic technicians with specialties in testing and splicing. WNCC has partnered with BDI DataLynk, a standards-based company to provide the FOA (Fiber Optic Association) sanctioned training.

The Certified Fiber Optic Technician class runs Monday, November 28 through Friday, December 2. Class time is 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day. Each class consists of hands-on skills labs paired with lecture and book learning to fully prepare students for their FOA Certification Exams and begin their careers.&nbsp;

“Feedback from the telecom and cable industry throughout the Panhandle indicates that fiber optic technicians are in short supply” WNCC's Executive Director of Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning Doug Mader said. “Five days of training for a job that pays anywhere from $35,000 to $60,000 is a big win for local employers and workforce. We also have GAP Community College funds that can help pay tuition for those who qualify so we encourage anyone interested to call us and apply.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the Nebraska Department of Labor, fiber optic technicians are H3 (high wage, high skill, high demand) occupations in the state and the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of fiber optic technicians is projected to grow eight percent through 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. The US telecommunications industry employs a total of 672,000 workers, with average annual wages of $77,500.

It’s forecasted that 5G rollout and other technologies could create 850,000 more new direct broadband and 5G jobs through 2025.

The tuition for the Certified Fiber Optic Technicians course is $2,200.00. GAP funding is available to those who qualify. Pre-registration for the course is required. Call 308-635-6700 for more information and to register.&nbsp;

By WNCCSCOTTSBLUFF -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College will host a five-day training course in November for certified fiber optic technicians with specialties in testing and splicing. WNCC has partnered with BDI DataLynk, a standards-based company to provide the FOA (Fiber Optic Association) sanctioned training.The Certified Fiber Optic Technician class runs Monday, November 28 through Friday, December 2. Class time is 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day. Each class consists of hands-on skills labs paired with lecture and book learning to fully prepare students for their FOA Certification Exams and begin their careers.&nbsp;“Feedback from the telecom and cable industry throughout the Panhandle indicates that fiber optic technicians are in short supply” WNCC's Executive Director of Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning Doug Mader said. “Five days of training for a job that pays anywhere from $35,000 to $60,000 is a big win for local employers and workforce. We also have GAP Community College funds that can help pay tuition for those who qualify so we encourage anyone interested to call us and apply.”&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the Nebraska Department of Labor, fiber optic technicians are H3 (high wage, high skill, high demand) occupations in the state and the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of fiber optic technicians is projected to grow eight percent through 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. The US telecommunications industry employs a total of 672,000 workers, with average annual wages of $77,500.It’s forecasted that 5G rollout and other technologies could create 850,000 more new direct broadband and 5G jobs through 2025.The tuition for the Certified Fiber Optic Technicians course is $2,200.00. GAP funding is available to those who qualify. Pre-registration for the course is required. Call 308-635-6700 for more information and to register.&nbsp;

WNCC to offer 5-day certified fiber optic technician course

To make a donation in support of the effort text "IAN" to 90999 or click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/eagleradioschmidt-pub.html/">HERE</a>&nbsp;or the image above to donate online.

The Robert E. And Patricia Schmidt Foundation recently donated $25,000 to the American Red Cross to help support recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian.

The Red Cross has dispatched multiple vehicles, which will most likely be deployed for weeks, and the foundation's gift will help support the volunteers manning the vehicles and help restock supplies.

"Our hearts go out to those effected by this devastating storm," said Schmidt Foundation Chairman Gary Shorman, "and we offer our sincere thanks to the Red Cross for offering much-needed assistance during this recovery.

"The mission of the Red Cross is an admirable one, and we'd urge our communities to do what they can to help by donating."

To make a donation in support of the effort text "IAN" to 90999 or click <a href="https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/eagleradioschmidt-pub.html/">HERE</a> to donate online.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664809523581.png" alt="Lori and Pat Loney, Red Cross volunteers from Derby, Kansas, arrived in Florida on Saturday morning following a 20+ hour drive." />
 <figcaption>Lori and Pat Loney, Red Cross volunteers from Derby, Kansas, arrived in Florida on Saturday morning following a 20+ hour drive.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><a href="https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/eagleradioschmidt-pub.html/">
<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664837188306.png"/>
</a></div>To make a donation in support of the effort text "IAN" to 90999 or click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/eagleradioschmidt-pub.html/">HERE</a>&nbsp;or the image above to donate online.The Robert E. And Patricia Schmidt Foundation recently donated $25,000 to the American Red Cross to help support recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian.The Red Cross has dispatched multiple vehicles, which will most likely be deployed for weeks, and the foundation's gift will help support the volunteers manning the vehicles and help restock supplies."Our hearts go out to those effected by this devastating storm," said Schmidt Foundation Chairman Gary Shorman, "and we offer our sincere thanks to the Red Cross for offering much-needed assistance during this recovery."The mission of the Red Cross is an admirable one, and we'd urge our communities to do what they can to help by donating."To make a donation in support of the effort text "IAN" to 90999 or click <a href="https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/eagleradioschmidt-pub.html/">HERE</a> to donate online.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664809714527.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Schmidt Foundation gift will aid Ian recovery efforts

Alliance American Legion District 4 will hold the annual Veteran's Day parade on Saturday, Nov. 5 at 11 a.m.

Registration is now open to all veterans. The preferred registration deadline is Nov. 1. They will be accepting entries until 9 a.m. the day of the parade.&nbsp;

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665674048647.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance American Legion District 4 will hold the annual Veteran's Day parade on Saturday, Nov. 5 at 11 a.m.Registration is now open to all veterans. The preferred registration deadline is Nov. 1. They will be accepting entries until 9 a.m. the day of the parade.&nbsp;

Veteran's Day Parade to be held in Alliance, accepting registrations

By ABIGAIL SWANSON, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS

Chadron – The Chadron State College Music department has events scheduled through December. All concerts are free and open to the public.

The Keyboard Through the Ages series that Dr. Brooks Hafey initiated earlier this semester, continues Sunday, Oct. 23 with a piano recital featuring classical keyboard music by Hafey at 3 p.m. in the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium.

The Wind Symphony and Community Band will perform under the direction of Dr. John Wojcik in the Memorial Hall Auditorium Nov. 4 at 7 p.m.

The Concert Choir and Community Choir will perform Nov. 6 at 3 p.m. in the Chadron Arts Center under the direction of Dr. Joel Schreuder.

Hafey continues Keyboard Through the Ages Nov. 13 at 3 p.m. with a piano recital featuring Early Romantic keyboard music in the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium.

CSC’s Jazz Ensembles will perform Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.

Additional music ensembles will perform a Dec. 8 Holiday Concert featuring traditional and contemporary music in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium at 7 p.m.

The Guitar Ensemble will conclude the Fall 2022 season with a performance Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium

By ABIGAIL SWANSON, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSChadron – The Chadron State College Music department has events scheduled through December. All concerts are free and open to the public.The Keyboard Through the Ages series that Dr. Brooks Hafey initiated earlier this semester, continues Sunday, Oct. 23 with a piano recital featuring classical keyboard music by Hafey at 3 p.m. in the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665672276320.jpeg" alt="Dr. Brooks Hafey kicks off the Chadron State College musical season with "Keyboard Music Through the Ages: Renaissance and Early Baroque" in the Sandoz Chicoine Atrium Aug. 28, 2022. (Photo by Abigail Swanson/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Brooks Hafey kicks off the Chadron State College musical season with "Keyboard Music Through the Ages: Renaissance and Early Baroque" in the Sandoz Chicoine Atrium Aug. 28, 2022. (Photo by Abigail Swanson/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Wind Symphony and Community Band will perform under the direction of Dr. John Wojcik in the Memorial Hall Auditorium Nov. 4 at 7 p.m.The Concert Choir and Community Choir will perform Nov. 6 at 3 p.m. in the Chadron Arts Center under the direction of Dr. Joel Schreuder.Hafey continues Keyboard Through the Ages Nov. 13 at 3 p.m. with a piano recital featuring Early Romantic keyboard music in the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium.CSC’s Jazz Ensembles will perform Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.Additional music ensembles will perform a Dec. 8 Holiday Concert featuring traditional and contemporary music in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium at 7 p.m.The Guitar Ensemble will conclude the Fall 2022 season with a performance Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium

Chadron State College fall music schedule in progress

By Renae Blum, Nebraska Game and Parks

Fall is here, with limitless possibilities for outdoor fun. If you’re looking for ways to enjoy the autumn season, look no further than Nebraska’s state parks, which are perfect for recreation of all kinds. Here are just a few opportunities they hold this time of year.

Fall is one of the best times of year to go fishing, when some of the biggest, fattest fish can be caught. Visit a Nebraska state park near you to take advantage of these opportunities. Also, rainbow trout will be stocked statewide this fall and winter, including at several state park areas; visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvZmlzaHN0b2NraW5ncmVwb3J0cy8ifQ.RRp0SQEKlqkMRl9hX5Hm2T66QDc9xNJeFAAXXD0Duks/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/fishstockingreports</a>&nbsp;to see the stocking schedule.

Kayaking and canoeing in fall can be a uniquely peaceful, enjoyable experience. Fewer people will be out, giving you more space on the water, and the fall scenery makes for a gorgeous backdrop. Pick a Nebraska state park lake and enjoy the splashes of color along the shoreline.

Many state parks have Halloween-themed events in October, including campground decorating contests, haunted hayrack rides, pumpkin-carving contests and trick-or-treating. Check our event calendar at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NhbGVuZGFyLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.ow74dIE_GnOkzGDP3FPFC1DOETgIyKjkeQcLGuTQPaU/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for events happening near you.

Wildlife viewing, bird watching and hiking

Enjoy some hiking, birdwatching and wildlife viewing on a trail at a state park. As you take in the fall color, keep your eyes peeled – you may encounter deer, turkey and various species of birds. Find a trail to explore at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvaGlraW5ndHJhaWxzLyJ9.MesQnqaEcCfW05o-F1zcKLWz4XYC-BEh73OW2tBCBhw/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">Outdoornebraska.gov/hikingtrails</a>.

Fall can be a great time for camping, with cooler temperatures, fewer bugs and fewer crowds. Plus, camping fees at Nebraska state parks are reduced once water facilities are winterized starting at about mid-October. To stay a little warmer at night, book a Tentrr site; these ready-to-go camping sites come with propane heaters. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi90ZW50cnIvIn0.zm5aEO3KYLG69QN7vePPFxIpZjWTVhbqVxAnFnFT8_U/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/tentrr</a>.

Fall is one of the best times of year to bring a horse to a state park and do some riding. Soak in the beauty of a state park on a trail, and camp overnight at an equestrian campground. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvZXF1ZXN0cmlhbnRyYWlscyJ9.yXrP2e4G_sCc1tg_-L-yqcAcwj4JputJktOwDpoJ9So/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">Outdoornebraska.gov/equestriantrails</a>.

Enjoy friends and family and good food while taking in the scenery of a Nebraska state park. After your meal, enjoy the other activities a state park offers, from fishing and hiking to camping and wildlife watching.

Bring on the competition and get good exercise playing a round of Frisbee golf. Many parks offer this opportunity, including Branched Oak State Recreation Area, Indian Cave State Park and Chadron State Park; call ahead to check about the parks near you.

Nebraska’s state parks are a fantastic place to take in the colors of fall. Indian Cave State Park and Ponca State Park are particularly known for their fall color, but you can view changing trees at just about every location.

For more information about Nebraska’s state parks and to buy a park entry permit, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5vcmcvIn0.rEhG8FUHC_UvnN0DlDYNd0KDqc3XBn7NXLON-VfsPCM/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

By Renae Blum, Nebraska Game and ParksFall is here, with limitless possibilities for outdoor fun. If you’re looking for ways to enjoy the autumn season, look no further than Nebraska’s state parks, which are perfect for recreation of all kinds. Here are just a few opportunities they hold this time of year.FishingFall is one of the best times of year to go fishing, when some of the biggest, fattest fish can be caught. Visit a Nebraska state park near you to take advantage of these opportunities. Also, rainbow trout will be stocked statewide this fall and winter, including at several state park areas; visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvZmlzaHN0b2NraW5ncmVwb3J0cy8ifQ.RRp0SQEKlqkMRl9hX5Hm2T66QDc9xNJeFAAXXD0Duks/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/fishstockingreports</a>&nbsp;to see the stocking schedule.Kayaking and canoeingKayaking and canoeing in fall can be a uniquely peaceful, enjoyable experience. Fewer people will be out, giving you more space on the water, and the fall scenery makes for a gorgeous backdrop. Pick a Nebraska state park lake and enjoy the splashes of color along the shoreline.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665615478496.jpeg" alt="Park guests enjoy a hayrack ride during Haunted Halloween at Fort Robinson State Park. Nebraska’s state parks have several Halloween-themed events in October. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)" />
 <figcaption>Park guests enjoy a hayrack ride during Haunted Halloween at Fort Robinson State Park. Nebraska’s state parks have several Halloween-themed events in October. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)</figcaption>
 </figure>Enjoy Halloween funMany state parks have Halloween-themed events in October, including campground decorating contests, haunted hayrack rides, pumpkin-carving contests and trick-or-treating. Check our event calendar at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NhbGVuZGFyLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.ow74dIE_GnOkzGDP3FPFC1DOETgIyKjkeQcLGuTQPaU/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for events happening near you.Wildlife viewing, bird watching and hikingEnjoy some hiking, birdwatching and wildlife viewing on a trail at a state park. As you take in the fall color, keep your eyes peeled – you may encounter deer, turkey and various species of birds. Find a trail to explore at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvaGlraW5ndHJhaWxzLyJ9.MesQnqaEcCfW05o-F1zcKLWz4XYC-BEh73OW2tBCBhw/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">Outdoornebraska.gov/hikingtrails</a>.CampingFall can be a great time for camping, with cooler temperatures, fewer bugs and fewer crowds. Plus, camping fees at Nebraska state parks are reduced once water facilities are winterized starting at about mid-October. To stay a little warmer at night, book a Tentrr site; these ready-to-go camping sites come with propane heaters. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi90ZW50cnIvIn0.zm5aEO3KYLG69QN7vePPFxIpZjWTVhbqVxAnFnFT8_U/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/tentrr</a>.Horseback ridingFall is one of the best times of year to bring a horse to a state park and do some riding. Soak in the beauty of a state park on a trail, and camp overnight at an equestrian campground. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvZXF1ZXN0cmlhbnRyYWlscyJ9.yXrP2e4G_sCc1tg_-L-yqcAcwj4JputJktOwDpoJ9So/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">Outdoornebraska.gov/equestriantrails</a>.Picnicking and barbecuingEnjoy friends and family and good food while taking in the scenery of a Nebraska state park. After your meal, enjoy the other activities a state park offers, from fishing and hiking to camping and wildlife watching.Frisbee golfBring on the competition and get good exercise playing a round of Frisbee golf. Many parks offer this opportunity, including Branched Oak State Recreation Area, Indian Cave State Park and Chadron State Park; call ahead to check about the parks near you.See fall colorNebraska’s state parks are a fantastic place to take in the colors of fall. Indian Cave State Park and Ponca State Park are particularly known for their fall color, but you can view changing trees at just about every location.For more information about Nebraska’s state parks and to buy a park entry permit, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMTEuNjQ5NzM5MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5vcmcvIn0.rEhG8FUHC_UvnN0DlDYNd0KDqc3XBn7NXLON-VfsPCM/s/497221906/br/145571510816-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

Try these fall activities at Nebraska’s state parks

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – Nearly 100 Project Strive TRiO students have participated in an annual tradition of planting trees on the Chadron State College campus during the past 11 years. Jen Schaer, director of Project Strive TRiO, said the tradition was established when students in the program helped plant trees on C-Hill during The Big Event. They have also helped with other campus beautification projects.

Project Strive TRiO is an academic enrichment program to help students succeed including sessions about career exploration, cultural and social enrichment, and self-awareness.

After the first year, Schaer and her staff thought it would be a great idea to start planting trees each year.

“Lucinda Mays (former grounds supervisor) loved this idea and it just took off from there. One year, the students helped move the bushes from behind the Math Science COIL building and planted them outside of the new track area. Another year, students worked to clean up the playground area of the Child Development Center,” Schaer said.

Schaer said students have learned valuable skills.

“From separating the roots and why it needs to be done, to what type of soil we have on campus, and what is needed to help the trees grow. Students also learn how to communicate and there is a team feel to the process since they work together to make it happen,” Schaer said.

Student participant Jeremy Carley of Dalton, Nebraska, helped plant two trees in front of Crites Hall and two in front of Kent Hall.

“I enjoyed the experience because of the hard work put into each tree and the memories made,” Carley said. “Anything can make an impact in this world, the trees which we helped Lucinda plant truly mean something. The rich history that this campus has is unique and through this process, we added to that history by adding a landmark for years to come. I learned that deer love to ruin small trees without knowing it, so we have to protect them in the early stages of growth to make sure that they have a future.”

He will graduate in May and his older sister, Janessa Carley, is a graduate student. She said she has also enjoyed watching trees grow the past several years since she helped plant them.

“Even though planting trees is a simple task, it has a lifelong impact. I love the idea that I have been able to contribute to the history of CSC, and in the future when the grounds team is telling stories about the landscaping on campus I will be connected to several landmarks. I also look forward to returning to campus when the trees are fully grown and sharing related stories with my future children or grandchildren,” Janessa Carley said.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Nearly 100 Project Strive TRiO students have participated in an annual tradition of planting trees on the Chadron State College campus during the past 11 years. Jen Schaer, director of Project Strive TRiO, said the tradition was established when students in the program helped plant trees on C-Hill during The Big Event. They have also helped with other campus beautification projects.Project Strive TRiO is an academic enrichment program to help students succeed including sessions about career exploration, cultural and social enrichment, and self-awareness.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665615339418.jpeg" alt="Lucinda Mays, left, demonstrates to Project Strive TRiO students the proper way to plant a tree near Kent Hall Sept. 21, 2022. From left, Jeremy Carley, Siddhant Shelke, and Francesca Zuniga. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Lucinda Mays, left, demonstrates to Project Strive TRiO students the proper way to plant a tree near Kent Hall Sept. 21, 2022. From left, Jeremy Carley, Siddhant Shelke, and Francesca Zuniga. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>After the first year, Schaer and her staff thought it would be a great idea to start planting trees each year.“Lucinda Mays (former grounds supervisor) loved this idea and it just took off from there. One year, the students helped move the bushes from behind the Math Science COIL building and planted them outside of the new track area. Another year, students worked to clean up the playground area of the Child Development Center,” Schaer said.Schaer said students have learned valuable skills.“From separating the roots and why it needs to be done, to what type of soil we have on campus, and what is needed to help the trees grow. Students also learn how to communicate and there is a team feel to the process since they work together to make it happen,” Schaer said.Student participant Jeremy Carley of Dalton, Nebraska, helped plant two trees in front of Crites Hall and two in front of Kent Hall.“I enjoyed the experience because of the hard work put into each tree and the memories made,” Carley said. “Anything can make an impact in this world, the trees which we helped Lucinda plant truly mean something. The rich history that this campus has is unique and through this process, we added to that history by adding a landmark for years to come. I learned that deer love to ruin small trees without knowing it, so we have to protect them in the early stages of growth to make sure that they have a future.”He will graduate in May and his older sister, Janessa Carley, is a graduate student. She said she has also enjoyed watching trees grow the past several years since she helped plant them.“Even though planting trees is a simple task, it has a lifelong impact. I love the idea that I have been able to contribute to the history of CSC, and in the future when the grounds team is telling stories about the landscaping on campus I will be connected to several landmarks. I also look forward to returning to campus when the trees are fully grown and sharing related stories with my future children or grandchildren,” Janessa Carley said.

Chadron tree planting is a tradition for Project Strive

Deputies and other emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle rollover accident reported at 4:36 a.m. today in the area of Stonegate Road and South Road near Lake Minatare.

A southbound pickup truck driven by 30-year-old Kyle Parsons of rural Minatare, left the roadway and rolled multiple times.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Mr. Parsons was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected," Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman said. "He was flown to Regional West Medical Center by AirLink, where he is being treated for serious injuries."

The Minatare/Melbeta Fire Department and Valley Ambulance assisted with this accident.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostDeputies and other emergency personnel responded to a single vehicle rollover accident reported at 4:36 a.m. today in the area of Stonegate Road and South Road near Lake Minatare.A southbound pickup truck driven by 30-year-old Kyle Parsons of rural Minatare, left the roadway and rolled multiple times.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Mr. Parsons was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected," Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman said. "He was flown to Regional West Medical Center by AirLink, where he is being treated for serious injuries."The Minatare/Melbeta Fire Department and Valley Ambulance assisted with this accident.&nbsp;

1 transported to hospital following rollover near Lake Minatare

At its Oct. 4 meeting, the Alliance City Council approved a municipal code amendment on third and final reading for the dates and times fireworks can be legally sold and discharged within the city. The council amended the&nbsp;previously discussed&nbsp;ordinance from four days to five days.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Three residents of Alliance attended the meeting to voice their thoughts and concerns.

"First, council thank you for what you do for our city," Bob Neville said. "Each one of you, thank you. Brian [Mischnick] and council, thank you for opening up with prayer. Ordinance 2944 is going to affect three businesses in this community...two are nonprofits. One is owned and operated by a young family, one is an owner operated business. Is that a lot of businesses? No. But it is three businesses that will be directly affected by sales with this resolution. If we go to four days from ten in the next eight years there will be three years where they will be able to sell fireworks on Saturday and Sunday. Three years out of the next eight. Saturday and Sunday, probably the biggest days for stands...makes sense...[when] most people [are] around. Two other years, they will have one Saturday and or Sunday to sell, all the rest will be weekdays. So, not only are we shortening to four days of sale, we're shortening the weekends that they have available to sell down to three."

Neville said, this ordinance gets "personal on my part, not your part".

"My son and daughter in law own that one that is owner operated," Neville said. "Kevin and Roxanne Foster started the business. John [Foster] and Carly have now taken it over with Kevin and Roxanne being second generation [owners]. Our grandson looks forward to running that fireworks stand when he gets old enough. So, it'd be a third generation business. With this resolution, not for sure that this business will still be here for the third generation. Also John and Carly own another business in town, small business, which they enjoy and do very well at home along with the fireworks. They rely on this income for their family of three kids. They own a house in town. John's employed locally, part time. And then these other two businesses supplement their income. Going from ten [days] to four is going to drastically reduce that income that's available. I just ask you to remember those days that are available for sale, especially the weekends. And that you are affecting three local businesses. I just ask you to vote against this resolution, and keep it in ten days. Once again, thank you for what you do for our community. I appreciate it. Thank you for the time to speak."

Bob's wife Delinda then spoke to the council.

"I love the prayer because in the prayer it said that you ask God to do well by the people that live here, but also to do well economically," Delinda said. "I'm here to propose, we don't always agree. I would love if you have [a] compromise of seven days[for fireworks]. I feel like drastically going from ten to four is where it gets really bad. It cuts into the possibility of not having a business. There's one more thing I want to bring up. That in the last four years, there are 16 days in those four years if you're only selling for four days. So, only five of those nights were weather free. Weather free means no thunderstorm, no rain, no wind."

"And so in the business; I will let you know John Foster, he wasn't my first pick for a son in law and he's my favorite now," Delinda said. "He calls me and says, Delinda, could you pray because there's a big storm coming, because it affects him possibly losing merchandise. It does affect sales. And of course, it affects people being involved. And so that means less sales down. And so in 16 days, five out of 16, that didn't work. So you got to remember, not only you're taking it from ten to four, but now you're taking it from four, down to maybe one of those four nights into something without another slot. We can't control the weather, but we can just control a decision to take it from 10 to seven."

Delinda then gave her personal opinion with fireworks.

"I grappled with fireworks," Delinda said. "When I was raising my kids, I'd tell them, I'll give you $1 bill and let you go out and burn it. Because that's how much I liked it. I just felt like it was a waste of money. Here's the thing. It's a business. But our daughter and our son in law do really really well and are very responsible with that money. And they'll be here for a long, long time. So I hope that you would vote so that they can have that business, not only just for the fun of children in our community, but also friends."

Delinda's last comment was that her and her husband [Bob] would be happy to clean up fireworks after the Fourth of July.

"I'd like it noted that my phone number is (308) 760-3542. And Bob's is (308) 760-2462. And you can post those phone numbers on the city site for us to come and clean anyone's yard out in front. We'd be happy to go clean."

Next, Alliance Berean Church Worship Pastor Philip Hawkins spoke to the council.

"The last seven years I've been involved with a firework stand...five of which I've been the manager of that stand," Hawkins said. "So the first two, I helped with the one down at, as people say, the old Alco parking lot; that was before my time. I've lived here nine years, almost. And the last four years I've managed what used to be where O'Reilly's is now, the Black Cat stand. We're now across the street from Safeway. There was one year where I ran a stand, and it broke even. And I mentioned that because fireworks isn't a plug-and-play system. And fireworks isn't something you just get into, there's a learning curve. And a lot of times that learning curve, you're thrown in. And you just have to do your best. But year to year the same is true. So every year, it's like building up a new business, you have ten days to figure it out. And, you know, for Bellino's [fireworks], they kind of have it all systematized."

"But for us, I feel like a service role to people, people want our products," Hawkins said. "I don't cajole people into it, I try to make it affordable for them. I'm able to adjust our prices and new sales and things like that. I move things around. I run raffles, I do a lot in that ten days. By the time we hit four days left, I'm in the full swing of things. I have really like six days to kind of figure out what we're doing. And really those last three, four days to get it done. And so that may seem to you like well, then there you go, you have the four days. But we need that other time. I spend that time developing relationships with the people who come in and buy a handful of things. But they look at the top shelf, and they ask questions about our products. And so I build those relationships. And over the last several years, I've built quite a few relationships. In fact, I ran into a customer of mine the other night at Safeway, and talked to him a little bit about it. And my fear is that with four days, I will be thrown into the thick of it without much time to adjust. And it'll seriously diminish my ability to do what I've learned to do very well, I think, for being a youth pastor, for being a singer...just like the Bible."

Hawkins then told a story about a challenging time at the Berean Church.

"So about two and a half years ago now, we all faced different kinds of challenges," Hawkins said. "And that challenge could have really wrecked us, I think. But fortunately, our Senior Pastor [Glenn Johnson] had this idea in 2019, that we should start streaming our services. And so I said, okay, well, we need to update our system. We need a digital soundboard, we're just not gonna be able to do some of this stuff without some investment. And because of the firework stand, I was able to update our system before 2020 came around, not knowing that we would have some issues, not knowing that 2020 will be what it was. And so we were ready for that, because of the firework stand. We went from 50 views typically on our YouTube channel a week...up to, on average, probably 275 to 300. Our Easter service that year had 600 views. We were serving the community and that's what we're here to do. And the fireworks stand that may seem like, gosh, you know, you guys should be able to be building and building, but we're still stewards of people's money. And so there are certain things that our leadership and myself included, would say, gosh, you know, is this a good use of the money that's in our people's heart? And so I've said, okay, I'll go out and go above and beyond and make some extra money so that we can invest in some of the technology."

Hawkins said some of the firework stand money was used to take children to camps.

"This last year, our new Youth Pastor [James Lake] decided to go full time. He gets paid part time from the church, and he's raising support to go full time. And he was making that transition in July. I was able to hire him and pay him his additional salary and make up for the gap for that month while they were unable to raise some money. The plan is to still raise more money to buy a church van, bus, something like that so that our Youth Pastor doesn't have to drive around town in his little sedan, and pick up students going around for an hour. Then we can use it for other things like student trips, and things like that. But that's where this money is going. It's going to serve people. And, you know, I'm not like the Fosters where I have an investment, it's not going to break the bank for me whether this [ordinance] goes through or not. In fact, I'll have more time for my family. So to me, it's not a personal thing. It is in that it has been a huge help for me to do the ministry that I love to do and that I feel called to do, and it's helped me do that. And I don't know that I can do quite as well. We'll try, you know, I'm not going to give up. But with four days, I just don't see that. I see that being harder than you may think. So you know I don't envy your position where you guys were at and I'm sure you've gotten a lot of phone calls. And I hope you've prayed, you've weighed what is the right thing to do and not just, do I like fireworks or do I not like fireworks. You know, do these, you know few people that have called you know...and as we all know the squeaky wheel sometimes gets the grease and it's hard to balance those things out and try to figure out what is right for this community."

"I can tell you that there are people who are way on the other side of this and say ten days, all the way...fireworks is about America, it's about freedom, it's about peace," Hawkins said. "It's about the fact that we don't have bombs bursting in the air anymore, it's fireworks. And we're celebrating freedom, you know, and that's important to people, that's meaningful for people. But I also understand that there are people who have fought for that freedom and who are struggling, and who, when they hear those fireworks going off, it's hard for them. I understand where pet owners are coming from as well. And that's hard to balance. But that's what I think most of us, at least personally, that's where I've come to this is that I feel like there is a balance, there is a compromise that hasn't quite been put on the table yet. But that's what I would like to see put on the table, seven days. So that's where I stand. I feel like there's a compromise in the air. And I think that would say to the people who are on both ends of the spectrum, that, hey, you've heard and we're willing to listen to both sides and meet in the middle. And you know, maybe a few years down the road. We revisit this, and maybe come up with some different search."

Councilman John McGhehy said he thinks seven days is a better compromise.

"You've heard some good arguments," McGhehy said. "Why four days and five days without looking at calendar systems is still not going to fix the problem and not the average weekends. In several years, I've kept track of the responses that I've gotten to the city. And first of all, there's no overwhelming desire to do this. In the responses I've done, it's pretty evenly split. And seven days, as I've heard today, and as I've been saying this since this was brought up, and the seven days has been compromised for those who were targeted at doing for ten days, and those who want to have more than four. I'm still at seven."

Councilman Brian Mischnick said he is also at seven days.

"I understand where people are coming from," Mischnick said.

Mayor Dafney, Councilwoman Bentley, and Councilman Jones voted yes on the third reading of this fireworks ordinance. Councilman McGhehy and Mischnick voted no.

You can listen to the Oct. 4 Alliance City Council meeting by clicking <a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/4a369237-b6d4-46b2-bcf9-c3e0926a214a">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostAt its Oct. 4 meeting, the Alliance City Council approved a municipal code amendment on third and final reading for the dates and times fireworks can be legally sold and discharged within the city. The council amended the&nbsp;previously discussed&nbsp;ordinance from four days to five days.&nbsp;&nbsp;Three residents of Alliance attended the meeting to voice their thoughts and concerns."First, council thank you for what you do for our city," Bob Neville said. "Each one of you, thank you. Brian [Mischnick] and council, thank you for opening up with prayer. Ordinance 2944 is going to affect three businesses in this community...two are nonprofits. One is owned and operated by a young family, one is an owner operated business. Is that a lot of businesses? No. But it is three businesses that will be directly affected by sales with this resolution. If we go to four days from ten in the next eight years there will be three years where they will be able to sell fireworks on Saturday and Sunday. Three years out of the next eight. Saturday and Sunday, probably the biggest days for stands...makes sense...[when] most people [are] around. Two other years, they will have one Saturday and or Sunday to sell, all the rest will be weekdays. So, not only are we shortening to four days of sale, we're shortening the weekends that they have available to sell down to three."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665595903460.jpeg" alt="Bob Neville&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Bob Neville&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Neville said, this ordinance gets "personal on my part, not your part"."My son and daughter in law own that one that is owner operated," Neville said. "Kevin and Roxanne Foster started the business. John [Foster] and Carly have now taken it over with Kevin and Roxanne being second generation [owners]. Our grandson looks forward to running that fireworks stand when he gets old enough. So, it'd be a third generation business. With this resolution, not for sure that this business will still be here for the third generation. Also John and Carly own another business in town, small business, which they enjoy and do very well at home along with the fireworks. They rely on this income for their family of three kids. They own a house in town. John's employed locally, part time. And then these other two businesses supplement their income. Going from ten [days] to four is going to drastically reduce that income that's available. I just ask you to remember those days that are available for sale, especially the weekends. And that you are affecting three local businesses. I just ask you to vote against this resolution, and keep it in ten days. Once again, thank you for what you do for our community. I appreciate it. Thank you for the time to speak."Bob's wife Delinda then spoke to the council."I love the prayer because in the prayer it said that you ask God to do well by the people that live here, but also to do well economically," Delinda said. "I'm here to propose, we don't always agree. I would love if you have [a] compromise of seven days[for fireworks]. I feel like drastically going from ten to four is where it gets really bad. It cuts into the possibility of not having a business. There's one more thing I want to bring up. That in the last four years, there are 16 days in those four years if you're only selling for four days. So, only five of those nights were weather free. Weather free means no thunderstorm, no rain, no wind.""And so in the business; I will let you know John Foster, he wasn't my first pick for a son in law and he's my favorite now," Delinda said. "He calls me and says, Delinda, could you pray because there's a big storm coming, because it affects him possibly losing merchandise. It does affect sales. And of course, it affects people being involved. And so that means less sales down. And so in 16 days, five out of 16, that didn't work. So you got to remember, not only you're taking it from ten to four, but now you're taking it from four, down to maybe one of those four nights into something without another slot. We can't control the weather, but we can just control a decision to take it from 10 to seven."Delinda then gave her personal opinion with fireworks."I grappled with fireworks," Delinda said. "When I was raising my kids, I'd tell them, I'll give you $1 bill and let you go out and burn it. Because that's how much I liked it. I just felt like it was a waste of money. Here's the thing. It's a business. But our daughter and our son in law do really really well and are very responsible with that money. And they'll be here for a long, long time. So I hope that you would vote so that they can have that business, not only just for the fun of children in our community, but also friends."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665595944872.jpeg" alt="Delinda Neville" />
 <figcaption>Delinda Neville</figcaption>
 </figure>Delinda's last comment was that her and her husband [Bob] would be happy to clean up fireworks after the Fourth of July."I'd like it noted that my phone number is (308) 760-3542. And Bob's is (308) 760-2462. And you can post those phone numbers on the city site for us to come and clean anyone's yard out in front. We'd be happy to go clean."Next, Alliance Berean Church Worship Pastor Philip Hawkins spoke to the council."The last seven years I've been involved with a firework stand...five of which I've been the manager of that stand," Hawkins said. "So the first two, I helped with the one down at, as people say, the old Alco parking lot; that was before my time. I've lived here nine years, almost. And the last four years I've managed what used to be where O'Reilly's is now, the Black Cat stand. We're now across the street from Safeway. There was one year where I ran a stand, and it broke even. And I mentioned that because fireworks isn't a plug-and-play system. And fireworks isn't something you just get into, there's a learning curve. And a lot of times that learning curve, you're thrown in. And you just have to do your best. But year to year the same is true. So every year, it's like building up a new business, you have ten days to figure it out. And, you know, for Bellino's [fireworks], they kind of have it all systematized.""But for us, I feel like a service role to people, people want our products," Hawkins said. "I don't cajole people into it, I try to make it affordable for them. I'm able to adjust our prices and new sales and things like that. I move things around. I run raffles, I do a lot in that ten days. By the time we hit four days left, I'm in the full swing of things. I have really like six days to kind of figure out what we're doing. And really those last three, four days to get it done. And so that may seem to you like well, then there you go, you have the four days. But we need that other time. I spend that time developing relationships with the people who come in and buy a handful of things. But they look at the top shelf, and they ask questions about our products. And so I build those relationships. And over the last several years, I've built quite a few relationships. In fact, I ran into a customer of mine the other night at Safeway, and talked to him a little bit about it. And my fear is that with four days, I will be thrown into the thick of it without much time to adjust. And it'll seriously diminish my ability to do what I've learned to do very well, I think, for being a youth pastor, for being a singer...just like the Bible."Hawkins then told a story about a challenging time at the Berean Church."So about two and a half years ago now, we all faced different kinds of challenges," Hawkins said. "And that challenge could have really wrecked us, I think. But fortunately, our Senior Pastor [Glenn Johnson] had this idea in 2019, that we should start streaming our services. And so I said, okay, well, we need to update our system. We need a digital soundboard, we're just not gonna be able to do some of this stuff without some investment. And because of the firework stand, I was able to update our system before 2020 came around, not knowing that we would have some issues, not knowing that 2020 will be what it was. And so we were ready for that, because of the firework stand. We went from 50 views typically on our YouTube channel a week...up to, on average, probably 275 to 300. Our Easter service that year had 600 views. We were serving the community and that's what we're here to do. And the fireworks stand that may seem like, gosh, you know, you guys should be able to be building and building, but we're still stewards of people's money. And so there are certain things that our leadership and myself included, would say, gosh, you know, is this a good use of the money that's in our people's heart? And so I've said, okay, I'll go out and go above and beyond and make some extra money so that we can invest in some of the technology."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665595997864.jpeg" alt="Philip Hawkins&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Philip Hawkins&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Hawkins said some of the firework stand money was used to take children to camps."This last year, our new Youth Pastor [James Lake] decided to go full time. He gets paid part time from the church, and he's raising support to go full time. And he was making that transition in July. I was able to hire him and pay him his additional salary and make up for the gap for that month while they were unable to raise some money. The plan is to still raise more money to buy a church van, bus, something like that so that our Youth Pastor doesn't have to drive around town in his little sedan, and pick up students going around for an hour. Then we can use it for other things like student trips, and things like that. But that's where this money is going. It's going to serve people. And, you know, I'm not like the Fosters where I have an investment, it's not going to break the bank for me whether this [ordinance] goes through or not. In fact, I'll have more time for my family. So to me, it's not a personal thing. It is in that it has been a huge help for me to do the ministry that I love to do and that I feel called to do, and it's helped me do that. And I don't know that I can do quite as well. We'll try, you know, I'm not going to give up. But with four days, I just don't see that. I see that being harder than you may think. So you know I don't envy your position where you guys were at and I'm sure you've gotten a lot of phone calls. And I hope you've prayed, you've weighed what is the right thing to do and not just, do I like fireworks or do I not like fireworks. You know, do these, you know few people that have called you know...and as we all know the squeaky wheel sometimes gets the grease and it's hard to balance those things out and try to figure out what is right for this community.""I can tell you that there are people who are way on the other side of this and say ten days, all the way...fireworks is about America, it's about freedom, it's about peace," Hawkins said. "It's about the fact that we don't have bombs bursting in the air anymore, it's fireworks. And we're celebrating freedom, you know, and that's important to people, that's meaningful for people. But I also understand that there are people who have fought for that freedom and who are struggling, and who, when they hear those fireworks going off, it's hard for them. I understand where pet owners are coming from as well. And that's hard to balance. But that's what I think most of us, at least personally, that's where I've come to this is that I feel like there is a balance, there is a compromise that hasn't quite been put on the table yet. But that's what I would like to see put on the table, seven days. So that's where I stand. I feel like there's a compromise in the air. And I think that would say to the people who are on both ends of the spectrum, that, hey, you've heard and we're willing to listen to both sides and meet in the middle. And you know, maybe a few years down the road. We revisit this, and maybe come up with some different search." Councilman John McGhehy said he thinks seven days is a better compromise."You've heard some good arguments," McGhehy said. "Why four days and five days without looking at calendar systems is still not going to fix the problem and not the average weekends. In several years, I've kept track of the responses that I've gotten to the city. And first of all, there's no overwhelming desire to do this. In the responses I've done, it's pretty evenly split. And seven days, as I've heard today, and as I've been saying this since this was brought up, and the seven days has been compromised for those who were targeted at doing for ten days, and those who want to have more than four. I'm still at seven."Councilman Brian Mischnick said he is also at seven days."I understand where people are coming from," Mischnick said.Mayor Dafney, Councilwoman Bentley, and Councilman Jones voted yes on the third reading of this fireworks ordinance. Councilman McGhehy and Mischnick voted no.You can listen to the Oct. 4 Alliance City Council meeting by clicking <a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/4a369237-b6d4-46b2-bcf9-c3e0926a214a">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

More Alliance residents voice concerns over fireworks ordinance

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 10/12/22

CHADRON – Music Instructor Jeremy Quick represented Chadron State College at the&nbsp;Rocky Mountain Archtop Festival in early September in Denver.

At the conference, Quick said he made connections with musical artists who could potentially showcase their talents as guest artists on campus. He gained new insight into arranging the Guitar Ensemble he coaches, and discussed curriculum and teaching styles with peers.

Additionally, he attended jazz guitar clinics, workshops, and performed with a wide array of artists, including Alicyn Yaffee, a guest artist from New York City, and in a live performance and demonstration of Dan Koentopp custom guitars.

Quick also collaborated with music educator Bruce Forman of the University of Southern California by performing and playing on Barney Kessel's 1946 Gibson ES-350 guitar.

“It was the musical equivalent of getting to carve stone with a tool used by Michelangelo,” Quick said.

He said playing such an important piece of jazz history inspired him and sharing the experience has brought meaning to his students and other fans of American music.

Quick said he hopes to take CSC students to the conference in the future.

By ABIGAIL SWANSON, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Music Instructor Jeremy Quick represented Chadron State College at the&nbsp;Rocky Mountain Archtop Festival in early September in Denver.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665588386136.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College guitar faculty member Jeremy Quick, right, plays a duet with Alicyn Yafee of New York City during the Rocky Mountain Archtop Festival in Denver Sept. 10, 2022. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College guitar faculty member Jeremy Quick, right, plays a duet with Alicyn Yafee of New York City during the Rocky Mountain Archtop Festival in Denver Sept. 10, 2022. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>At the conference, Quick said he made connections with musical artists who could potentially showcase their talents as guest artists on campus. He gained new insight into arranging the Guitar Ensemble he coaches, and discussed curriculum and teaching styles with peers.Additionally, he attended jazz guitar clinics, workshops, and performed with a wide array of artists, including Alicyn Yaffee, a guest artist from New York City, and in a live performance and demonstration of Dan Koentopp custom guitars.Quick also collaborated with music educator Bruce Forman of the University of Southern California by performing and playing on Barney Kessel's 1946 Gibson ES-350 guitar.“It was the musical equivalent of getting to carve stone with a tool used by Michelangelo,” Quick said.He said playing such an important piece of jazz history inspired him and sharing the experience has brought meaning to his students and other fans of American music.Quick said he hopes to take CSC students to the conference in the future.

Quick of Chadron plays guitars at conference

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityWe had such good news about child poverty rates in September. First we learned from the Child Trends Research Institute that the rate of children living below the poverty line had dropped 59% from 1993 - 2019. Then the Census Bureau released the figures for 2021, and the great news was that the rate had dropped again, from 9.7% in 2020 to 5.2% in 2021. However, the news for 2022 isn't nearly as rosy.The monthly child poverty rate increased by 5% between December 2021 January 2022. The increase in poverty represents 3.7 million more children in poverty due to the expiration of the monthly Child Tax Credit payments.The Census Bureau reports poverty rates using two different measures. The official poverty measure has been used since the 1960s. Pretax money income is compared to a national poverty threshold based on the size of a household. The official poverty rate in the United States in 2021 was 11.6%, with 37.9 million people in poverty.Now most experts use the Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM). The Census Bureau in September reported that the SPM poverty rate in 2021 was 7.8%.The Supplemental Poverty Measure was developed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and has been used since 2011. The SPM takes into account the value of the government programs that assist low-income families. The SPM also deducts federal and state taxes and medical expenses from total earnings. Finally, the SPM recognizes that the cost of living varies for different geographical regions.The SPM child poverty rate of 5.2% in 2021 is the lowest child poverty rate on record. Why? After the COVID pandemic hit the nation in March, 2020, Congress passed the CARES Act and later the American Rescue Plan. We all remember how people stopped leaving their houses. Schools and many businesses closed. Most transportation was shut down. We faced shortages of so many products. Unemployment soared.Businesses received stimulus payments. For individuals, unemployment benefits were increased, SNAP benefits were increased, payments for some loans and mortgages were delayed. The Child Tax Credit was increased and could be received monthly rather than as a lump sum at tax time.For the last six months of 2021, families with eligible children received monthly payments of $300 per child through the credit. The second half of the credit was delivered to families in the spring in the form of a tax refund.However, that increase in the Child Tax Credit was only good for 2021. This year the monthly payments ended, so the full credit will be deducted from a person's tax return next spring. And the full credit amount has been reduced from $3600 to $2000 per child for the year.The benefits of the larger tax credit and its payout in monthly checks were widespread, lowering child poverty, food insecurity, and financial anxiety for millions of families with children. When we also consider the current high inflation rates, especially on food, we have to expect that the rate of children in poverty in the United States will continue to rise.Is there anything we can do to reverse this trend? How about contacting our members of Congress and asking them to return to the Child Tax Credit amounts and monthly payments of 2021? It was obviously a successful program that should be renewed.

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