POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 8/22/22

Lincoln – At a ceremony at the Nebraska State Capitol on August 8, 2022, Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts declared August 28-September 3, 2022, Nebraska Drug Overdose Awareness Week, (NDOAW).

Provisional data from CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics indicate there were an estimated 107,622 drug overdose deaths in the United States during 2021, an increase of nearly 15% from the 93,655 deaths estimated in 2020. The 2021 increase was half of what it was a year ago, when overdose deaths rose 30% from 2019 to 2020.

Stop Overdose Nebraska works in conjunction with the Statewide Narcan Program, which allows anyone who is a Nebraska resident to obtain lifesaving Narcan at no cost at a participating pharmacy, without a prescription or insurance. Narcan can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, including drugs laced with fentanyl.

“We can all be part of the solution by helping to reduce stigma, supporting programs in our communities, and helping to spread awareness about overdose. August 31st was established as International Drug Overdose Awareness Day to increase public knowledge about the severity of drug overdose, and the Nebraska Drug Overdose Awareness Week is aimed at letting people know how they can help and to remember those that have been lost to drug overdose,” said Amy Holman, Project Coordinator for the Nebraska Pharmacists Association.

This year, we are excited to bring the award-winning documentary, Tipping The Pain Scale, to the Grand Cinema in downtown Lincoln on August 31, 2022, at 7:30 p.m., which is International Overdose Awareness Day. We encourage people to come out and watch this film that addresses the addiction crisis we are facing in America.

The addiction crisis in America has reached a new boiling point, and courageous people-at all levels, from all walks of life-are rising to answer the call. Tipping The Pain Scale is a feature documentary film following individuals grappling with the current systemic failures of how we have dealt with addiction in communities and their journey to develop and employ new, innovative, and often controversial solutions&nbsp;to the problem. It is a quasi-anthology, weaving characters through their own stories as they connect to the issues plaguing all communities and the country in an urgent fight to save lives.

You can purchase tickets at&nbsp;<a href="https://gathr.us/screening/32089" target="_blank">https://gathr.us/screening/32089</a>.

We will also be talking with individuals in Nebraska who are working with people in recovery, are in recovery themselves and are doing their part to help the overdose crisis we are now facing. These will be available during NDOAW on all the Stop Overdose Nebraska social media platforms.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/stopodne" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/stopodne</a>

<a href="https://twitter.com/stopodne" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/stopodne</a>

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/stopodne/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/stopodne/</a>

Lincoln – At a ceremony at the Nebraska State Capitol on August 8, 2022, Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts declared August 28-September 3, 2022, Nebraska Drug Overdose Awareness Week, (NDOAW).Provisional data from CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics indicate there were an estimated 107,622 drug overdose deaths in the United States during 2021, an increase of nearly 15% from the 93,655 deaths estimated in 2020. The 2021 increase was half of what it was a year ago, when overdose deaths rose 30% from 2019 to 2020.Stop Overdose Nebraska works in conjunction with the Statewide Narcan Program, which allows anyone who is a Nebraska resident to obtain lifesaving Narcan at no cost at a participating pharmacy, without a prescription or insurance. Narcan can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, including drugs laced with fentanyl.“We can all be part of the solution by helping to reduce stigma, supporting programs in our communities, and helping to spread awareness about overdose. August 31st was established as International Drug Overdose Awareness Day to increase public knowledge about the severity of drug overdose, and the Nebraska Drug Overdose Awareness Week is aimed at letting people know how they can help and to remember those that have been lost to drug overdose,” said Amy Holman, Project Coordinator for the Nebraska Pharmacists Association.This year, we are excited to bring the award-winning documentary, Tipping The Pain Scale, to the Grand Cinema in downtown Lincoln on August 31, 2022, at 7:30 p.m., which is International Overdose Awareness Day. We encourage people to come out and watch this film that addresses the addiction crisis we are facing in America.The addiction crisis in America has reached a new boiling point, and courageous people-at all levels, from all walks of life-are rising to answer the call. Tipping The Pain Scale is a feature documentary film following individuals grappling with the current systemic failures of how we have dealt with addiction in communities and their journey to develop and employ new, innovative, and often controversial solutions&nbsp;to the problem. It is a quasi-anthology, weaving characters through their own stories as they connect to the issues plaguing all communities and the country in an urgent fight to save lives.You can purchase tickets at&nbsp;<a href="https://gathr.us/screening/32089" target="_blank">https://gathr.us/screening/32089</a>.We will also be talking with individuals in Nebraska who are working with people in recovery, are in recovery themselves and are doing their part to help the overdose crisis we are now facing. These will be available during NDOAW on all the Stop Overdose Nebraska social media platforms.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/stopodne" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/stopodne</a><a href="https://twitter.com/stopodne" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/stopodne</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/stopodne/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/stopodne/</a>

Ricketts declares Aug. 28 – Sept. 3 NE Drug Overdose Awareness Week

Alliance – The City of Alliance Aging Office is experiencing technical difficulties causing their phone lines to be down. 

By City of AllianceAlliance – The City of Alliance Aging Office is experiencing technical difficulties causing their phone lines to be down. Please call 308-762-1293 for service.

City of Alliance Aging Office experiencing phone problems 

There are more than a million acres of publicly accessible lands throughout Nebraska. The recently published 2022-2023 Public Access Atlas identifies and consolidates these public access resources for the benefit of Nebraska’s hunters, trappers and anglers.

Printed copies of this year’s atlas are available at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission headquarters and soon will be available in its district offices and service centers, as well as wherever hunt and fish permits are sold.

The Public Access Atlas also is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTkuNjI0ODk3NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5vcmcvUHVibGljQWNjZXNzQXRsYXMifQ.2AxZCVkoq_4G1XdxqbobAI_T4dJ0eSA4FaOk-4VmWAI/s/497221906/br/142800097200-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/PublicAccessAtlas</a>&nbsp;in several different formats: Interactive atlas map, offline atlas (mobile-friendly), digital flipbook and Google Earth KMZ files.&nbsp;

The atlas is updated annually and displays all publicly accessible lands throughout the state, including state, federal and conservation partner lands.

Private lands enrolled in Game and Parks’ Open Fields and Waters Program also are included in the atlas. Open Fields and Waters provides financial incentives to private landowners allowing walk-in, public access for hunting, trapping and/or fishing. Finding places to hunt and fish can be a challenge for hunters and anglers but, thanks to Nebraska’s landowners, 381,000 acres of private lands are available through this voluntary program.

By Nebraska Game and Parks&nbsp;There are more than a million acres of publicly accessible lands throughout Nebraska. The recently published 2022-2023 Public Access Atlas identifies and consolidates these public access resources for the benefit of Nebraska’s hunters, trappers and anglers.Printed copies of this year’s atlas are available at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission headquarters and soon will be available in its district offices and service centers, as well as wherever hunt and fish permits are sold.The Public Access Atlas also is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTkuNjI0ODk3NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5vcmcvUHVibGljQWNjZXNzQXRsYXMifQ.2AxZCVkoq_4G1XdxqbobAI_T4dJ0eSA4FaOk-4VmWAI/s/497221906/br/142800097200-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/PublicAccessAtlas</a>&nbsp;in several different formats: Interactive atlas map, offline atlas (mobile-friendly), digital flipbook and Google Earth KMZ files.&nbsp;The atlas is updated annually and displays all publicly accessible lands throughout the state, including state, federal and conservation partner lands.Private lands enrolled in Game and Parks’ Open Fields and Waters Program also are included in the atlas. Open Fields and Waters provides financial incentives to private landowners allowing walk-in, public access for hunting, trapping and/or fishing. Finding places to hunt and fish can be a challenge for hunters and anglers but, thanks to Nebraska’s landowners, 381,000 acres of private lands are available through this voluntary program.

2022-2023 Public Access Atlas now available for hunters, anglers

P202200679 07:20 EMS : MEDICAL 600 W. 2ND STREET/ MEDICAL EMERGENCY REPORTED/INDIVIDUAL PLACED UNDER EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE CUSTODY Closed - Resolved

P202200681 23:49 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Officers were dispatched to Box Butte General Hospital referencing an assault. Officers spoke with one female. This case is open for investigation. Open - Under Investigation

P202200682 02:14 FOUND : FOUND On 08/16/2022 an officer was patrolling near 6th Street and Black Hills Avenue. The officer observed a blue Huffy bike parked on the sidewalk; away from any residence. Attempting to locate owner. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202200682 02:14 FOUND : FOUND On 08/16/2022 an officer was patrolling near 6th Street and Black Hills Avenue. The officer observed a blue Huffy bike parked on the sidewalk; away from any residence. Attempting to locate owner. Open - Under Investigation

P202200683 07:14 SUSP : SUSPICIOUS Found property near the high school / Property collected / Case closed Closed - Resolved

P202200684 08:10 FOUND : FOUND on 8/16/2022 a black Motorola phone was turned into dispatch/ phone was deemed found property and stored into the evidence vault pending locating the owner. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202200685 17:29 INTAKE : INTAKE 1100 POTASH AVENUE/ DHHS INTAKE/ ALLEGATIONS UNFOUNDED UPON INVESTIGATION Closed - Unfounded

P202200686 17:41 INTAKE : INTAKE officers were requested to do a welfare check by DDHS on a juvenile in allegations of a safety concern/officers found no concerns/case is closed an unfounded Closed - Unfounded

P202200688 23:25 WELFARE : WELFARE *Contains medically sensitive information* On 08/16/2022 officers were requested to conduct a welfare check on an individual who had been making suicidal comments and had sent pictures with an item tied around the neck. The individual was contacted and confirmed the allegations. The individual was placed in Emergency Protective Custody. Closed - Resolved

P202200687 23:44 DISTURBANCE : Officers responded to a call of a disturbance on the 400 block of Big Horn. This case is open for investigation.


P202200691 12:43 FOUND : FOUND Found property 1800 block of Box Butte Ave, turned in by a VIP Inactive - Case Suspended

P202200689 13:30 JUV : JUVENILE Out of Control juvenile reported by parent, charges to be recommended Closed - Charges Recommended

P202200692 19:58 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYOn 08/17/2022 there were two vehicles traveling westbound on the 600 block of West 3rd Street. One vehicle was going to turn into Git N Split, the other that was traveling behind it, collided with it. No injuries. Closed - Resolved

P202200693 10:07 THEFT : THEFT Received report of a possible forgery of a check from the victim's 401 account Open - Under Investigation

P202200694 10:41 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYMinor vehicle accident in the 300 block of Box Butte Ave. Both vehicles were able to be driven away from the scene. Closed - Resolved

P202200694 10:41 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYMinor vehicle accident in the 300 block of Box Butte Ave. Both vehicles were able to be driven away from the scene. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202200695 14:09 DISTURBANCE : 3RD DEGREE ASSAULT AND CRIMINAL MISCHIEF OCCURRED AT J&amp;J PIT STOP Closed - Charges Recommended

P202200696 14:53 DEATH : UNATTENDED 400 block of Boyd Ave // Report of a deceased adult female // An investigation was conducted // No indication of foul play Closed - Resolved

P202200697 16:41 INTAKE : INTAKE A welfare check was requested through DHHS on an elderly female as there is allegation there is financial exploitation. Open - Under Investigation

P202200698 21:45 WARRANT : ARREST On 08/18/2022 at approximately 2145 hours, officers observed a white vehicle that had been driven by a female that had an active arrest warrant parked at Git N Split. Female taken into custody. Closed - Resolved

P202200699 21:45 WARRANT : SEARCH Officers made contact with a female that had an active arrest warrant on the 600 block of West 3rd Street. RAS was developed and K9 was deployed on a vehicle which lead to a search warrant. Additional charges were recommended on the female. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202200700 10:44 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Individual stuck her hand through a fence to feed a strange dog a treat and was bit on the hand as a result. Dog is current on all vaccinations. Closed - Resolved

P202200702 18:53 WARRANT : ARREST Officers were on the 200 block of East 3rd Street in reference to a citation being issued. A male with an active Box Butte County arrest warrant arrived on scene. The warrant was confirmed and the male was taken into custody. 

P202200701 18:53 DRUGS : DRUGS Officers observed a male in the 200 block of east 3rd Street that had possible arrest warrants. The warrant was no longer active; however, drug paraphernalia was located on a male. Citation issued. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202200703 10:38 FOUND : FOUND found black trike on 1400 block of Toluca Avenue/ trike was taken to bicycle warehouse/ case remains inactive pending locating the owner Inactive - Case Suspended

P202200704 15:29 WARRANT : ARREST Officer responded to the 1400 block of Buckfinck for a person with an arrest warrant. Individual was located at a residence on this block. Individual taken into custody. Closed - Resolved

P202200705 16:35 BITE : ANIMAL BITE 1400 Emerson Avenue/ Dog Bite/ Animal Quarantined Closed - Resolved

By Alliance Police Department08/14/22P202200679 07:20 EMS : MEDICAL 600 W. 2ND STREET/ MEDICAL EMERGENCY REPORTED/INDIVIDUAL PLACED UNDER EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE CUSTODY Closed - Resolved08/14/22 Total: 108/15/22P202200681 23:49 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Officers were dispatched to Box Butte General Hospital referencing an assault. Officers spoke with one female. This case is open for investigation. Open - Under Investigation08/15/22 Total: 108/16/22P202200682 02:14 FOUND : FOUND On 08/16/2022 an officer was patrolling near 6th Street and Black Hills Avenue. The officer observed a blue Huffy bike parked on the sidewalk; away from any residence. Attempting to locate owner. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202200682 02:14 FOUND : FOUND On 08/16/2022 an officer was patrolling near 6th Street and Black Hills Avenue. The officer observed a blue Huffy bike parked on the sidewalk; away from any residence. Attempting to locate owner. Open - Under InvestigationP202200683 07:14 SUSP : SUSPICIOUS Found property near the high school / Property collected / Case closed Closed - ResolvedP202200684 08:10 FOUND : FOUND on 8/16/2022 a black Motorola phone was turned into dispatch/ phone was deemed found property and stored into the evidence vault pending locating the owner. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202200685 17:29 INTAKE : INTAKE 1100 POTASH AVENUE/ DHHS INTAKE/ ALLEGATIONS UNFOUNDED UPON INVESTIGATION Closed - UnfoundedP202200686 17:41 INTAKE : INTAKE officers were requested to do a welfare check by DDHS on a juvenile in allegations of a safety concern/officers found no concerns/case is closed an unfounded Closed - UnfoundedP202200688 23:25 WELFARE : WELFARE *Contains medically sensitive information* On 08/16/2022 officers were requested to conduct a welfare check on an individual who had been making suicidal comments and had sent pictures with an item tied around the neck. The individual was contacted and confirmed the allegations. The individual was placed in Emergency Protective Custody. Closed - ResolvedP202200687 23:44 DISTURBANCE : Officers responded to a call of a disturbance on the 400 block of Big Horn. This case is open for investigation.
08/16/22 Total: 9
08/17/22P202200691 12:43 FOUND : FOUND Found property 1800 block of Box Butte Ave, turned in by a VIP Inactive - Case SuspendedP202200689 13:30 JUV : JUVENILE Out of Control juvenile reported by parent, charges to be recommended Closed - Charges RecommendedP202200692 19:58 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYOn 08/17/2022 there were two vehicles traveling westbound on the 600 block of West 3rd Street. One vehicle was going to turn into Git N Split, the other that was traveling behind it, collided with it. No injuries. Closed - Resolved08/17/22 Total: 308/18/22P202200693 10:07 THEFT : THEFT Received report of a possible forgery of a check from the victim's 401 account Open - Under InvestigationP202200694 10:41 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYMinor vehicle accident in the 300 block of Box Butte Ave. Both vehicles were able to be driven away from the scene. Closed - ResolvedP202200694 10:41 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYMinor vehicle accident in the 300 block of Box Butte Ave. Both vehicles were able to be driven away from the scene. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202200695 14:09 DISTURBANCE : 3RD DEGREE ASSAULT AND CRIMINAL MISCHIEF OCCURRED AT J&amp;J PIT STOP Closed - Charges RecommendedP202200696 14:53 DEATH : UNATTENDED 400 block of Boyd Ave // Report of a deceased adult female // An investigation was conducted // No indication of foul play Closed - ResolvedP202200697 16:41 INTAKE : INTAKE A welfare check was requested through DHHS on an elderly female as there is allegation there is financial exploitation. Open - Under InvestigationP202200698 21:45 WARRANT : ARREST On 08/18/2022 at approximately 2145 hours, officers observed a white vehicle that had been driven by a female that had an active arrest warrant parked at Git N Split. Female taken into custody. Closed - ResolvedP202200699 21:45 WARRANT : SEARCH Officers made contact with a female that had an active arrest warrant on the 600 block of West 3rd Street. RAS was developed and K9 was deployed on a vehicle which lead to a search warrant. Additional charges were recommended on the female. Closed - Charges Recommended08/18/22 Total: 808/19/22P202200700 10:44 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Individual stuck her hand through a fence to feed a strange dog a treat and was bit on the hand as a result. Dog is current on all vaccinations. Closed - ResolvedP202200702 18:53 WARRANT : ARREST Officers were on the 200 block of East 3rd Street in reference to a citation being issued. A male with an active Box Butte County arrest warrant arrived on scene. The warrant was confirmed and the male was taken into custody. P202200701 18:53 DRUGS : DRUGS Officers observed a male in the 200 block of east 3rd Street that had possible arrest warrants. The warrant was no longer active; however, drug paraphernalia was located on a male. Citation issued. Closed - Charges Recommended08/19/22 Total: 308/20/22P202200703 10:38 FOUND : FOUND found black trike on 1400 block of Toluca Avenue/ trike was taken to bicycle warehouse/ case remains inactive pending locating the owner Inactive - Case SuspendedP202200704 15:29 WARRANT : ARREST Officer responded to the 1400 block of Buckfinck for a person with an arrest warrant. Individual was located at a residence on this block. Individual taken into custody. Closed - ResolvedP202200705 16:35 BITE : ANIMAL BITE 1400 Emerson Avenue/ Dog Bite/ Animal Quarantined Closed - Resolved08/20/22 Total: 3Total Records: 28

Alliance Police Department: The media report 

The Hay Springs Chamber of Commerce and other community organizations will be holding the 94th annual Hay Springs Friendly Festival Aug. 25 - Aug. 28.&nbsp;

This year's Grand Marshals are&nbsp; Jim and Sandy Heesacker

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661125171337.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hay Springs Chamber of Commerce and other community organizations will be holding the 94th annual Hay Springs Friendly Festival Aug. 25 - Aug. 28.&nbsp;This year's Grand Marshals are&nbsp; Jim and Sandy Heesacker

'Friendly Festival' to be held in Hay Springs 

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in September. Here are some opportunities:

Wildcat Tales preschool program is Sept. 20

Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area will host the monthly Wildcat Tales preschool program Sept. 20.

Each program will include a lesson plan, story, and hands-on activity specifically targeted for children ages 2-6 years. The program Beautiful Birds will meet at the Nature Center at 10 a.m. Mountain time. Each month will have a different program topic.

The program is free but a vehicle park entry permit is required.&nbsp;For more information contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Growing Up WILD Educator Workshop set for Sept. 6 in Hastings

A Growing Up WILD educator workshop, which provides an early foundation for developing positive attitudes and behaviors about nature and lifelong social and academic skills, is scheduled for Sept. 6 in Hastings.

This award-winning early childhood curriculum guide is for educators of children ages 3-7. The guide builds on children’s sense of wonder about nature by providing age appropriate, interdisciplinary lessons. Each thematic lesson includes multiple activities which teach math, reading, letter recognition, science, social studies as well as social-emotional skills.

This free workshop is from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Hastings Museum, 1330 N. Burlington Ave. Space is limited. Register at the calendar event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.CtmvUHVTcWp4AS2mUy1iQufgKR3kdDaJ4nm4MpIF7JI/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.

Kayaking cleanup of Holmes Lakes is Sept. 13

Join Nebraska Game and Parks Commission outdoor educations for an evening of service while kayaking. Educators and participants will clean up trash from Lincoln’s Holmes Lakes while kayaking Sept. 13.

Trash bags and gloves will be provided. Meet at the north basin boat ramp parking lot. A limited number of kayaks, with instruction, will be available to participants ages 12 and up on a first-come basis.

This free event is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Register is required and can be completed at the calendar event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.vJWWJPyjpSWfAmyJeD6oPVWoDib9E0j-y1quxI75PG0/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.

Benson Park Family Nature Day scheduled for Sept. 17

Enjoy kayaking, fishing, nature activities, s’mores and food trucks Sept. 17 at Benson Park Family Nature Day in Omaha.

The event, hosted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Urban League of Nebraska’s Young Professional Group, Kappa League Alumni Group, Urban Financial Services Coalition, Omaha Black Community, North Omaha Neighborhood Association, Connect Black Omaha, North Omaha Community Partnership and I Be Black Girl, will be from 3-6 p.m. at Benson Park, 7028 Military Ave.

For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lindsay.rogers@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">lindsay.rogers@nebraska.gov</a>.

Climate topic of Lunch and Learn virtual webinar Sept. 7

Join the Conservation Education Lunch and Learn Series on Sept. 7 for the virtual webinar Climate Services and Perceptions Across Nebraska. Enjoy this free event from 12:30-1:30 p.m.

The presenter will be Dr. Martha Schulski of the Nebraska State Climate Office and professor of applied climate science in the School of Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her work focuses on climate variability and change and understanding climate impacts. The Nebraska State Climate Office is an operational climate services center based in the School of Natural Resources.

Register and get more information at the calendar event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.3VErFc5DXynjmla5KAZBUcmNrism_5-7C5PWDEgnEeQ/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.

Little Saplings early childhood program presents Fun with Fish

Adults looking to explore the outdoors with their young children are invited to Little Saplings, a monthly early childhood nature discovery program at Schramm Education Center near Gretna.

The series, which begins Sept. 7 with the theme Fun with Fish, is held on the first Wednesday of the month, through December, at 9 a.m.

This program, designed for children ages 2-5 and their adult caregiver, will bring nature themes to life through stories, sensory activities, crafts and outdoor exploration.

See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.o2-wwBGAprEogb-0DnqPNmUB32olZAIvq8DF4LIfE-8/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Wildcat Hills to host Birds of a Feather homeschool program

Come along with the Birds of a Feather homeschool program on Sept. 15 and discover birds at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area. Learn all about their adaptations and local research projects being conducted.

This program will meet once a month at 10 a.m. Mountain time at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center.&nbsp;It will be conducted rain or shine.

The program is free but a vehicle park entry permit is required. For more information contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Nature Nerd Night to feature Zoonotic Diseases

Just like humans, wildlife can feel under the weather, too. Tune in to Nebraska Nature Nerd Night on Sept. 20 and discover the kinds of diseases and illnesses common in animals.

In the Zoonotic Diseases virtual webinar, which begins at 7 p.m. Central time, experts will discuss how those diseases affect Nebraska wildlife populations and humans’ health.

Registration is required through the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.cehCPdxdzzHc86GC1koUmODccJTPqclrF-tTF1t-e0k/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>. Participants may submit questions to be answered during the webinar while registering. For more information, contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or follow the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission or Nebraska Wildlife Education on Facebook.

Those unable to attend can view the recorded webinar on the Nebraska Game and Parks YouTube Education Channel.

Homeschool Hike set for Sept. 21 at Schramm Park SRA

School is back and so are the Homeschool Hikes, starting Sept. 21 at Schramm Park State Recreation Area near Gretna.

Homeschool Hikes are a nature exploration program for homeschool families. They will take place on the third Wednesday of the month, through December, at 9 a.m. An outdoor educator leads a guided hike while participants ask questions, draw, observe and make discoveries in nature.

Visit the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.BYlsRp0JVx2TKpnMmd6eVYrrJrQO0I3B9RxegIWKsbE/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information and to register.

By Nebraska Game and ParksNebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in September. Here are some opportunities:Wildcat Tales preschool program is Sept. 20Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area will host the monthly Wildcat Tales preschool program Sept. 20.Each program will include a lesson plan, story, and hands-on activity specifically targeted for children ages 2-6 years. The program Beautiful Birds will meet at the Nature Center at 10 a.m. Mountain time. Each month will have a different program topic.The program is free but a vehicle park entry permit is required.&nbsp;For more information contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587140447752.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.org" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.org</figcaption>
 </figure>Growing Up WILD Educator Workshop set for Sept. 6 in HastingsA Growing Up WILD educator workshop, which provides an early foundation for developing positive attitudes and behaviors about nature and lifelong social and academic skills, is scheduled for Sept. 6 in Hastings.This award-winning early childhood curriculum guide is for educators of children ages 3-7. The guide builds on children’s sense of wonder about nature by providing age appropriate, interdisciplinary lessons. Each thematic lesson includes multiple activities which teach math, reading, letter recognition, science, social studies as well as social-emotional skills.This free workshop is from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Hastings Museum, 1330 N. Burlington Ave. Space is limited. Register at the calendar event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.CtmvUHVTcWp4AS2mUy1iQufgKR3kdDaJ4nm4MpIF7JI/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.Kayaking cleanup of Holmes Lakes is Sept. 13Join Nebraska Game and Parks Commission outdoor educations for an evening of service while kayaking. Educators and participants will clean up trash from Lincoln’s Holmes Lakes while kayaking Sept. 13.Trash bags and gloves will be provided. Meet at the north basin boat ramp parking lot. A limited number of kayaks, with instruction, will be available to participants ages 12 and up on a first-come basis.This free event is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Register is required and can be completed at the calendar event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.vJWWJPyjpSWfAmyJeD6oPVWoDib9E0j-y1quxI75PG0/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.Benson Park Family Nature Day scheduled for Sept. 17Enjoy kayaking, fishing, nature activities, s’mores and food trucks Sept. 17 at Benson Park Family Nature Day in Omaha.The event, hosted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Urban League of Nebraska’s Young Professional Group, Kappa League Alumni Group, Urban Financial Services Coalition, Omaha Black Community, North Omaha Neighborhood Association, Connect Black Omaha, North Omaha Community Partnership and I Be Black Girl, will be from 3-6 p.m. at Benson Park, 7028 Military Ave.For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lindsay.rogers@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">lindsay.rogers@nebraska.gov</a>.Climate topic of Lunch and Learn virtual webinar Sept. 7Join the Conservation Education Lunch and Learn Series on Sept. 7 for the virtual webinar Climate Services and Perceptions Across Nebraska. Enjoy this free event from 12:30-1:30 p.m.The presenter will be Dr. Martha Schulski of the Nebraska State Climate Office and professor of applied climate science in the School of Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her work focuses on climate variability and change and understanding climate impacts. The Nebraska State Climate Office is an operational climate services center based in the School of Natural Resources.Register and get more information at the calendar event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.3VErFc5DXynjmla5KAZBUcmNrism_5-7C5PWDEgnEeQ/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.Little Saplings early childhood program presents Fun with FishAdults looking to explore the outdoors with their young children are invited to Little Saplings, a monthly early childhood nature discovery program at Schramm Education Center near Gretna.The series, which begins Sept. 7 with the theme Fun with Fish, is held on the first Wednesday of the month, through December, at 9 a.m.This program, designed for children ages 2-5 and their adult caregiver, will bring nature themes to life through stories, sensory activities, crafts and outdoor exploration.See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.o2-wwBGAprEogb-0DnqPNmUB32olZAIvq8DF4LIfE-8/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.Wildcat Hills to host Birds of a Feather homeschool programCome along with the Birds of a Feather homeschool program on Sept. 15 and discover birds at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area. Learn all about their adaptations and local research projects being conducted.This program will meet once a month at 10 a.m. Mountain time at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center.&nbsp;It will be conducted rain or shine.The program is free but a vehicle park entry permit is required. For more information contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.Nature Nerd Night to feature Zoonotic DiseasesJust like humans, wildlife can feel under the weather, too. Tune in to Nebraska Nature Nerd Night on Sept. 20 and discover the kinds of diseases and illnesses common in animals.In the Zoonotic Diseases virtual webinar, which begins at 7 p.m. Central time, experts will discuss how those diseases affect Nebraska wildlife populations and humans’ health.Registration is required through the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.cehCPdxdzzHc86GC1koUmODccJTPqclrF-tTF1t-e0k/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>. Participants may submit questions to be answered during the webinar while registering. For more information, contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or follow the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission or Nebraska Wildlife Education on Facebook.Those unable to attend can view the recorded webinar on the Nebraska Game and Parks YouTube Education Channel.Homeschool Hike set for Sept. 21 at Schramm Park SRASchool is back and so are the Homeschool Hikes, starting Sept. 21 at Schramm Park State Recreation Area near Gretna.Homeschool Hikes are a nature exploration program for homeschool families. They will take place on the third Wednesday of the month, through December, at 9 a.m. An outdoor educator leads a guided hike while participants ask questions, draw, observe and make discoveries in nature.Visit the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTYuNjIzMjYwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.BYlsRp0JVx2TKpnMmd6eVYrrJrQO0I3B9RxegIWKsbE/s/497221906/br/142639790676-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information and to register.

Catch these Game and Parks education events in Sept. including Wildcat Hills

On Aug. 19 at 6:35 p.m. Scottsbluff police officers investigated a report of a stolen vehicle in the 1200 block of 11th&nbsp;Avenue. 

At approximately 6:51 p.m. officers located the stolen vehicle traveling in the area of 7th&nbsp;Avenue and East Overland Drive. 

Officers attempted to stop the vehicle. 38-year-old Chad Kelley of Alliance failed to pull over and lead the officers on a vehicle pursuit.

Kelley drove around the Uptown Scottsbluff Mall and ran through business barricades in the K-Mart parking lot before traveling west towards the Scottsbluff High School. 

Kelley drove through the parking lot of the Scottsbluff High School and through another barricade. Scottsbluff police said the pursuit was called off at that time due to school activities taking place.

"The pursuit was reinitiated near Broadway and 23rd&nbsp;Street after the suspect drove through a stop sign," Scottsbluff Police Sergeant Tyler Fliam said. "The suspect abandoned the stolen vehicle in the 300 block of W 21st&nbsp;Street and ran on foot. Officers located the suspect hiding in a vacant apartment in the 1900 block of 3rd&nbsp;Avenue with the assistance of K-9 Duke and nearby citizens."

Kelley was arrested without incident for theft of motor vehicle, possession of stolen property, flight to avoid arrest, criminal mischief, obstructing an officer, and trespassing. 

Kelley also had three warrants out of Alliance for charges of burglary, theft and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

Scottsbluff Police Department was assisted by the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office and the Gering Police Department.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostOn Aug. 19 at 6:35 p.m. Scottsbluff police officers investigated a report of a stolen vehicle in the 1200 block of 11th&nbsp;Avenue. At approximately 6:51 p.m. officers located the stolen vehicle traveling in the area of 7th&nbsp;Avenue and East Overland Drive. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle. 38-year-old Chad Kelley of Alliance failed to pull over and lead the officers on a vehicle pursuit.Kelley drove around the Uptown Scottsbluff Mall and ran through business barricades in the K-Mart parking lot before traveling west towards the Scottsbluff High School. Kelley drove through the parking lot of the Scottsbluff High School and through another barricade. Scottsbluff police said the pursuit was called off at that time due to school activities taking place."The pursuit was reinitiated near Broadway and 23rd&nbsp;Street after the suspect drove through a stop sign," Scottsbluff Police Sergeant Tyler Fliam said. "The suspect abandoned the stolen vehicle in the 300 block of W 21st&nbsp;Street and ran on foot. Officers located the suspect hiding in a vacant apartment in the 1900 block of 3rd&nbsp;Avenue with the assistance of K-9 Duke and nearby citizens."Kelley was arrested without incident for theft of motor vehicle, possession of stolen property, flight to avoid arrest, criminal mischief, obstructing an officer, and trespassing. Kelley also had three warrants out of Alliance for charges of burglary, theft and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.Scottsbluff Police Department was assisted by the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office and the Gering Police Department.&nbsp;

Alliance man arrested in Scottsbluff following vehicle, foot pursuit 

By Office of Gov. Pete Ricketts:&nbsp;

We’re successfully growing Nebraska and creating jobs here in the Good Life.&nbsp; Nebraska had the nation’s lowest average unemployment rate in 2020 and 2021, and we do again so far in 2022.&nbsp; In fact, we currently have the lowest unemployment rate&nbsp;in state history&nbsp;at 1.9%.&nbsp; As of Sunday, August 14th, the State’s job website (<a href="https://neworks.nebraska.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>) listed 51,835 available openings.

This abundance of jobs benefits Nebraska’s families.&nbsp; Earlier this month, the Annie E. Casey Foundation released their annual Kids Count Data Book with information on child welfare in all 50 states.&nbsp; Nebraska ranked #1 for children’s economic wellbeing.&nbsp; That makes sense.&nbsp; When there are plenty of jobs available, parents can readily find work to take care of their kids.&nbsp;

While our state’s historically low unemployment rate is great for Nebraskans looking for their next career opportunity, it poses challenges for businesses and State agencies looking to hire great people.&nbsp; In this labor market, employers must be creative to recruit and retain the talent they need to grow.

We’ve been working since 2015 to create a talent pipeline to connect Nebraska’s graduates with the great-paying jobs being created here in the Good Life.&nbsp; We’re beginning our efforts as early as 7th&nbsp;grade with the Developing Youth Talent Initiative (DYTI), continuing them with high school career academies, and then extending them to post-secondary education through our Career Scholarship program and Registered Apprenticeships.

I worked with the Legislature to launch DYTI in 2015.&nbsp; DYTI provides competitive grants to for-profit companies, who partner with area schools to design innovative learning experiences that inspire 7th&nbsp;and 8th&nbsp;graders to explore careers in manufacturing, information technology, and other high-growth industries.&nbsp; Middle school is the time when students begin to gravitate toward a course of study based on their experiences and relationships.&nbsp; Gaining exposure to great-paying, in-demand careers at this age greatly increases the likelihood that students will pursue them.&nbsp;

Since its inception, DYTI grants have reached 24,500 students across 66 Nebraska school districts. &nbsp;This month, we announced our newest DYTI grant recipients: MetalQuest in Hebron and 21st&nbsp;Century Equipment in Scottsbluff.&nbsp; &nbsp;These grants will bring DYTI to 3,500 additional students in 29 school districts.

This is MetalQuest’s second time receiving a DYTI grant.&nbsp; It partnered with Sandy Creek and Lawrence Nelson Public Schools on a DYTI program in 2016.&nbsp; Before the program, only 39% of students reported being interested in a career in manufacturing. &nbsp;After the program, around 75% expressed interest in a manufacturing career.&nbsp; Our results have also shown that students are more likely to enroll in math, science, and technical coursework as high school freshmen after having taken part in DYTI during middle school.&nbsp; For example, Gering Public Schools saw its freshman and sophomore engineering course enrollments increase by 25% in the 2021-2022 academic year, two years after Vistabeam partnered with the school on DYTI.

Career Academies / Registered Apprenticeships

CNH Industrial partners with Grand Island High School through the Career Pathways Institute.&nbsp; In 2017, CNH donated new fabrication equipment to the school for students to use in learning labs.&nbsp; The equipment is very similar to what CNH uses in its actual manufacturing process.&nbsp; Working with Grand Island High School, CNH also offers a Youth Registered Apprenticeship program for welders and industrial manufacturing technicians. &nbsp;Student apprentices earn course credit while gaining hands-on experience at CNH on the manufacturing floor.

In August 2021, CNH entered into a partnership with Central Community College to offer registered apprenticeships for students in welding technology and advanced manufacturing design technology. &nbsp;These students earn while they learn their trade, and simultaneously gain credit toward a degree. &nbsp;This helps them avoid taking out debt to pay for school.&nbsp; Across Nebraska, registered apprenticeship programs increased 15% in 2021. &nbsp;There are now over 3,900 apprentices in training.

In 2020, the Legislature funded my proposal to invest in Nebraska Career Scholarships for students at our community colleges, state colleges, and University system.&nbsp; Last year, we successfully expanded the Career Scholarship program to add private colleges to the program. &nbsp;This will bring the total number of career scholarships to at least 2,110 by 2023.&nbsp; These scholarships are equipping Nebraska’s young adults to take great jobs in high-demand fields such as engineering and manufacturing.&nbsp;

We’re also seeing innovative uses of these scholarships.&nbsp; Wayne State College and the City of Norfolk have partnered to use them as part of the Growing Together Career Scholars Program.&nbsp; Students selected for the program spend their first three years of college engaging with Norfolk business partners through site visits, job shadowing, and mentorships. &nbsp;In their senior year, students move to downtown Norfolk where they earn credit while working for a local business. &nbsp;The program is a great way to help students develop relationships within the community so they remain in Northeast Nebraska after graduation.&nbsp;

We’re seeing the fruits of our investments in workforce development.&nbsp; Nebraska has experienced record-high employment for 12 consecutive months.&nbsp; Manufacturing employment in Nebraska has reached its highest point in over 14 years.&nbsp; Our state also has the top labor force participation rate in the country at 70%.&nbsp; These are great signs that we’re equipping Nebraskans with the education and skills they need to have career success.&nbsp; Going forward, we’ll continue to prioritize innovative programs that help connect Nebraska’s youth with the great companies creating jobs across Nebraska.

If you have questions about the State’s workforce development initiatives, please contact me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-2244.

By Office of Gov. Pete Ricketts:&nbsp;We’re successfully growing Nebraska and creating jobs here in the Good Life.&nbsp; Nebraska had the nation’s lowest average unemployment rate in 2020 and 2021, and we do again so far in 2022.&nbsp; In fact, we currently have the lowest unemployment rate&nbsp;in state history&nbsp;at 1.9%.&nbsp; As of Sunday, August 14th, the State’s job website (<a href="https://neworks.nebraska.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>) listed 51,835 available openings.This abundance of jobs benefits Nebraska’s families.&nbsp; Earlier this month, the Annie E. Casey Foundation released their annual Kids Count Data Book with information on child welfare in all 50 states.&nbsp; Nebraska ranked #1 for children’s economic wellbeing.&nbsp; That makes sense.&nbsp; When there are plenty of jobs available, parents can readily find work to take care of their kids.&nbsp;While our state’s historically low unemployment rate is great for Nebraskans looking for their next career opportunity, it poses challenges for businesses and State agencies looking to hire great people.&nbsp; In this labor market, employers must be creative to recruit and retain the talent they need to grow.We’ve been working since 2015 to create a talent pipeline to connect Nebraska’s graduates with the great-paying jobs being created here in the Good Life.&nbsp; We’re beginning our efforts as early as 7th&nbsp;grade with the Developing Youth Talent Initiative (DYTI), continuing them with high school career academies, and then extending them to post-secondary education through our Career Scholarship program and Registered Apprenticeships.DYTII worked with the Legislature to launch DYTI in 2015.&nbsp; DYTI provides competitive grants to for-profit companies, who partner with area schools to design innovative learning experiences that inspire 7th&nbsp;and 8th&nbsp;graders to explore careers in manufacturing, information technology, and other high-growth industries.&nbsp; Middle school is the time when students begin to gravitate toward a course of study based on their experiences and relationships.&nbsp; Gaining exposure to great-paying, in-demand careers at this age greatly increases the likelihood that students will pursue them.&nbsp;Since its inception, DYTI grants have reached 24,500 students across 66 Nebraska school districts. &nbsp;This month, we announced our newest DYTI grant recipients: MetalQuest in Hebron and 21st&nbsp;Century Equipment in Scottsbluff.&nbsp; &nbsp;These grants will bring DYTI to 3,500 additional students in 29 school districts.This is MetalQuest’s second time receiving a DYTI grant.&nbsp; It partnered with Sandy Creek and Lawrence Nelson Public Schools on a DYTI program in 2016.&nbsp; Before the program, only 39% of students reported being interested in a career in manufacturing. &nbsp;After the program, around 75% expressed interest in a manufacturing career.&nbsp; Our results have also shown that students are more likely to enroll in math, science, and technical coursework as high school freshmen after having taken part in DYTI during middle school.&nbsp; For example, Gering Public Schools saw its freshman and sophomore engineering course enrollments increase by 25% in the 2021-2022 academic year, two years after Vistabeam partnered with the school on DYTI.Career Academies / Registered ApprenticeshipsCNH Industrial partners with Grand Island High School through the Career Pathways Institute.&nbsp; In 2017, CNH donated new fabrication equipment to the school for students to use in learning labs.&nbsp; The equipment is very similar to what CNH uses in its actual manufacturing process.&nbsp; Working with Grand Island High School, CNH also offers a Youth Registered Apprenticeship program for welders and industrial manufacturing technicians. &nbsp;Student apprentices earn course credit while gaining hands-on experience at CNH on the manufacturing floor.In August 2021, CNH entered into a partnership with Central Community College to offer registered apprenticeships for students in welding technology and advanced manufacturing design technology. &nbsp;These students earn while they learn their trade, and simultaneously gain credit toward a degree. &nbsp;This helps them avoid taking out debt to pay for school.&nbsp; Across Nebraska, registered apprenticeship programs increased 15% in 2021. &nbsp;There are now over 3,900 apprentices in training.Career ScholarshipsIn 2020, the Legislature funded my proposal to invest in Nebraska Career Scholarships for students at our community colleges, state colleges, and University system.&nbsp; Last year, we successfully expanded the Career Scholarship program to add private colleges to the program. &nbsp;This will bring the total number of career scholarships to at least 2,110 by 2023.&nbsp; These scholarships are equipping Nebraska’s young adults to take great jobs in high-demand fields such as engineering and manufacturing.&nbsp;We’re also seeing innovative uses of these scholarships.&nbsp; Wayne State College and the City of Norfolk have partnered to use them as part of the Growing Together Career Scholars Program.&nbsp; Students selected for the program spend their first three years of college engaging with Norfolk business partners through site visits, job shadowing, and mentorships. &nbsp;In their senior year, students move to downtown Norfolk where they earn credit while working for a local business. &nbsp;The program is a great way to help students develop relationships within the community so they remain in Northeast Nebraska after graduation.&nbsp;We’re seeing the fruits of our investments in workforce development.&nbsp; Nebraska has experienced record-high employment for 12 consecutive months.&nbsp; Manufacturing employment in Nebraska has reached its highest point in over 14 years.&nbsp; Our state also has the top labor force participation rate in the country at 70%.&nbsp; These are great signs that we’re equipping Nebraskans with the education and skills they need to have career success.&nbsp; Going forward, we’ll continue to prioritize innovative programs that help connect Nebraska’s youth with the great companies creating jobs across Nebraska.If you have questions about the State’s workforce development initiatives, please contact me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-2244.

Gov. Ricketts: Growing Nebraska by developing our people

CHADRON – Chadron State College’s High Plains Herbarium digital collection is the largest of any Nebraska herbarium, according to Herbarium Director Steve Rolfsmeier. Data for more than 52,000 specimens are searchable online and more than half of the entries have images associated with them, according to Rolfsmeier. This is about 80 percent of the college’s flowering plants, ferns and conifer specimens.

The imaging station, purchased through a 2018 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, has been installed and is operating in the Math Science Center of Innovative Learning (COIL) Herbarium. Bailey Steinke, a senior from Denver is the imaging technician for the project.

CSC is part of the Consortium of Northern Great Plains Herbaria portal, a member of a larger group of Symbiota portals that can be searched for data and images of specimens from hundreds of U.S. herbaria.

The original NSF grant will end this fall, but the college has committed to employing student workers to continue imaging and georeferencing.

“We have probably 10,000 specimens to go, but we continue to add specimens to the herbarium so digitizing will never really be complete,” Rolfsmeier said.

CSC’s bryophyte data, mosses and liverworts, are on the Consortium of North American Bryophyte Herbaria and Rolfsmeier has started digitizing the college’s lichen collection data on the Consortium of North American Lichen Herbaria.

Before the NSF project, the Herbarium staff had been adding an average of 1,000 specimens annually from Rolfsmeier’s collections, student collections, and gifts from other botanists and herbaria. In addition, they have a large backlog of 20 years of material collected by the founder of the Herbarium and Rolfsmeier’s predecessor Dr. Ron Weedon and others.

“This effort has increased the herbarium’s visibility tremendously. I’ve received a lot more requests for specimen images and leaf material, for DNA sequencing, than previously. We have the largest digital footprint by far of any Nebraska herbarium. It feels great to finally see Ron [Weedon’s] dream becoming reality,” Rolfsmeier said.

By TENA L. COOK, CSCCHADRON – Chadron State College’s High Plains Herbarium digital collection is the largest of any Nebraska herbarium, according to Herbarium Director Steve Rolfsmeier. Data for more than 52,000 specimens are searchable online and more than half of the entries have images associated with them, according to Rolfsmeier. This is about 80 percent of the college’s flowering plants, ferns and conifer specimens.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660937597811.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College is part of the Consortium of Northern Great Plains Herbaria which can be searched for data and images of specimens from hundreds of herbaria across the country. Bailey Steinke of Denver, Colo., images items in CSC's High Plains Herbarium collection Aug. 8, 2022, in the Math Science Center of Innovative Learning. Data for more than 52,000 CSC specimens is searchable online and more than half of the have images associated with them. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College is part of the Consortium of Northern Great Plains Herbaria which can be searched for data and images of specimens from hundreds of herbaria across the country. Bailey Steinke of Denver, Colo., images items in CSC's High Plains Herbarium collection Aug. 8, 2022, in the Math Science Center of Innovative Learning. Data for more than 52,000 CSC specimens is searchable online and more than half of the have images associated with them. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>The imaging station, purchased through a 2018 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, has been installed and is operating in the Math Science Center of Innovative Learning (COIL) Herbarium. Bailey Steinke, a senior from Denver is the imaging technician for the project.CSC is part of the Consortium of Northern Great Plains Herbaria portal, a member of a larger group of Symbiota portals that can be searched for data and images of specimens from hundreds of U.S. herbaria.The original NSF grant will end this fall, but the college has committed to employing student workers to continue imaging and georeferencing.“We have probably 10,000 specimens to go, but we continue to add specimens to the herbarium so digitizing will never really be complete,” Rolfsmeier said.CSC’s bryophyte data, mosses and liverworts, are on the Consortium of North American Bryophyte Herbaria and Rolfsmeier has started digitizing the college’s lichen collection data on the Consortium of North American Lichen Herbaria.Before the NSF project, the Herbarium staff had been adding an average of 1,000 specimens annually from Rolfsmeier’s collections, student collections, and gifts from other botanists and herbaria. In addition, they have a large backlog of 20 years of material collected by the founder of the Herbarium and Rolfsmeier’s predecessor Dr. Ron Weedon and others.“This effort has increased the herbarium’s visibility tremendously. I’ve received a lot more requests for specimen images and leaf material, for DNA sequencing, than previously. We have the largest digital footprint by far of any Nebraska herbarium. It feels great to finally see Ron [Weedon’s] dream becoming reality,” Rolfsmeier said.

CSC High Plains Herbarium’s digital footprint reaches 52,000 entries

Box Butte County Fair small pet results:&nbsp; (Exhibitor Name, Class Description, Ribbon, Special Placing)

Zoe Bunnell	Reptile	Purple	Reserve Champion

Box Butte County Fair small pet results:&nbsp; (Exhibitor Name, Class Description, Ribbon, Special Placing)Ashley Carr	Mammal	Purple	Grand ChampionZoe Bunnell	Reptile	Purple	Reserve Champion

Box Butte Co. Fair small pet results

Box Butte County Fair rabbit results: (Exhibitor Name, Class Description, Ribbon, Special Placing, Division Placing)

Jacen Buskirk	Jr. Rabbit Showmanship	Blue		

Josephine Jacobson	Jr. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Rs. Champion Jr. Showmanship	Reserve Champion

James Lanier	Jr. Rabbit Showmanship	Blue		

Wren Weare	Jr. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Champion Jr. Showmanship	Grand Champion

Keith Buskirk	Int. Rabbit Showmanship	Blue		

Ayla Foster	Int. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Champion Int. Showmanship	

Eden Foster	Int. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple		

Ruby Heckman	Int. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Rs. Champion Int. Showmanship	

Katrina Karell	Int. Rabbit Showmanship	Blue		

Sierra Banks	Sr. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Champion Sr. Showmanship	

Celia Buskirk	Sr. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Rs. Champion Sr. Showmanship	

Donna LeMunyan	Sr. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple		

Ruby Heckman	Br. Fancy- Holland Lop	Blue		

Katrina Karell	Br. Fancy- Holland Lop	Purple		

Ayla Foster	Br. Fancy- Mini Rex	Purple	Rs. Best of Show Rabbit	

Callin Foster	Br. Fancy- Netherland Dwarf	Blue		

Josephine Jacobson	Br. Fancy- Polish	Purple		

Donna LeMunyan	Br. Fancy- Polish	Purple		

James Lanier	Br. Commercial-- Californian	Purple		

Celia Buskirk	Br. Commercial-- Giant Chinchilla	Blue		

Ruby Heckman	Br. Commercial-- Flemish Giant	Purple	Best of Show Rabbit	

Ruby Heckman	Br. Commercial-- Flemish Giant	Red		

Jacen Buskirk	Br. Commercial-- Satin	Purple		

James Lanier	Br. Commercial-- Satin	Blue		

James Lanier	Br. Commercial-- Satin	Purple		

Box Butte County Fair rabbit results: (Exhibitor Name, Class Description, Ribbon, Special Placing, Division Placing)Jacen Buskirk	Jr. Rabbit Showmanship	Blue		Josephine Jacobson	Jr. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Rs. Champion Jr. Showmanship	Reserve ChampionJames Lanier	Jr. Rabbit Showmanship	Blue		Wren Weare	Jr. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Champion Jr. Showmanship	Grand ChampionKeith Buskirk	Int. Rabbit Showmanship	Blue		Ayla Foster	Int. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Champion Int. Showmanship	Eden Foster	Int. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple		Ruby Heckman	Int. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Rs. Champion Int. Showmanship	Katrina Karell	Int. Rabbit Showmanship	Blue		Sierra Banks	Sr. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Champion Sr. Showmanship	Celia Buskirk	Sr. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple	Rs. Champion Sr. Showmanship	Donna LeMunyan	Sr. Rabbit Showmanship	Purple		Braden Connor	Br. Fancy- Dutch	Red		James Lanier	Br. Fancy- Harlequin	Red		Corley Connor	Br. Fancy- Havana	Purple		Ruby Heckman	Br. Fancy- Holland Lop	Blue		Katrina Karell	Br. Fancy- Holland Lop	Purple		Sierra Banks	Br. Fancy- Mini Rex	Blue		Ayla Foster	Br. Fancy- Mini Rex	Purple	Rs. Best of Show Rabbit	Callin Foster	Br. Fancy- Netherland Dwarf	Blue		Keith Buskirk	Br. Fancy- Polish	Purple		Ayla Foster	Br. Fancy- Polish	Blue		Eden Foster	Br. Fancy- Polish	Blue		Josephine Jacobson	Br. Fancy- Polish	Purple		Donna LeMunyan	Br. Fancy- Polish	Purple		Callin Foster	Br. Fancy- Tan	Blue		Eden Foster	Br. Fancy- Tan	Purple		James Lanier	Br. Commercial-- Californian	Purple		Celia Buskirk	Br. Commercial-- Giant Chinchilla	Blue		Ruby Heckman	Br. Commercial-- Flemish Giant	Purple	Best of Show Rabbit	Ruby Heckman	Br. Commercial-- Flemish Giant	Red		Jacen Buskirk	Br. Commercial-- Satin	Purple		James Lanier	Br. Commercial-- Satin	Blue		James Lanier	Br. Commercial-- Satin	Purple

Box Butte Co. Fair rabbit results

By Alliance Police Department, City of Alliance

As part of the Alliance School District’s and the Alliance Police Department’s commitment to students’ safety and mental health, beginning&nbsp; August 18th we are launching an anonymous reporting program, which will allow students and parents to make anonymous reports about concerns of safety or student wellness. This anonymous reporting system is not just for students but is also for school staff, parents, and guardians. For more information visit <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.safe2helpne.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3Q8fNjNNpgwVKRSGvnuI74tFJKY1J5DN6TgDLyvfQhJnIl6xiugPNaH1w&amp;h=AT1Pa4nIygkabGNAstZvEbemTwZeCQhLqaz5OQhSgeyUMyRV2Rm8ioQeyb9Y6K-LXO3jYRv9rB8BBTziiCqUEMj938Q9Q6ymQON2Ihr77BQI6Y9HOVZ6Y7NfEvg3H8ktbImXCwBgjwSmFDj4&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT0xW91fKa1t5atwMMQePdAwxbmsoImdF5m8dyUYt8SujSB0EntAGHx47liQFppE2WSd583VTvWg5nMb5BabT6Uqlz-zG6nvJ-dczYzTKQ-xYe-WFhDzYJg6cA1EnxR4WvTNV4JruYEebhX7MxQ676MNpm1BHHsqUAhVeUrorYzpKRXUmePs5J3qlqHOXfbBmfLF-aJJ" target="_blank">https://www.safe2helpne.org/</a>#!Download the app on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store!&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Alliance Police Department, City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660945746982.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As part of the Alliance School District’s and the Alliance Police Department’s commitment to students’ safety and mental health, beginning&nbsp; August 18th we are launching an anonymous reporting program, which will allow students and parents to make anonymous reports about concerns of safety or student wellness. This anonymous reporting system is not just for students but is also for school staff, parents, and guardians. For more information visit <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.safe2helpne.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3Q8fNjNNpgwVKRSGvnuI74tFJKY1J5DN6TgDLyvfQhJnIl6xiugPNaH1w&amp;h=AT1Pa4nIygkabGNAstZvEbemTwZeCQhLqaz5OQhSgeyUMyRV2Rm8ioQeyb9Y6K-LXO3jYRv9rB8BBTziiCqUEMj938Q9Q6ymQON2Ihr77BQI6Y9HOVZ6Y7NfEvg3H8ktbImXCwBgjwSmFDj4&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT0xW91fKa1t5atwMMQePdAwxbmsoImdF5m8dyUYt8SujSB0EntAGHx47liQFppE2WSd583VTvWg5nMb5BabT6Uqlz-zG6nvJ-dczYzTKQ-xYe-WFhDzYJg6cA1EnxR4WvTNV4JruYEebhX7MxQ676MNpm1BHHsqUAhVeUrorYzpKRXUmePs5J3qlqHOXfbBmfLF-aJJ" target="_blank">https://www.safe2helpne.org/</a>#!Download the app on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alliance police, APS launch anonymous reporting program 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The head of the nation's largest railroad union says&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-strikes-a83dffef79d38e36dc25588b19bf54b4">the report</a>&nbsp;designed to help resolve stalled contract talks with freight railroads doesn't do enough to address concerns about working conditions, even though it suggests 24% raises.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-norfolk-government-and-politics-eeedec386f2acba5d63181436ca03f3f">railroads indicated</a>&nbsp;earlier this week that they were ready to hammer out a deal based on the recommendations of the Presidential Emergency Board that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-transportation-strikes-ba718974eb14fcd615d606bfcdffb3d2">Joe Biden appointed</a>&nbsp;last month. But Thursday's first comments from union leadership suggest that the 115,000 workers they represent may not be ready to sign off.

Both sides have 30 days to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-government-and-politics-e579d80010954632d5da3977c02de90c">negotiate a contract</a>&nbsp;before federal law would allow a strike or lockout to happen. But if both sides do get to mid September without an agreement, Congress is likely to intervene and impose terms to avert a strike.

The recommendations of the advisory were a “vast improvement” over the railroads’ previous proposals, said Jeremy Ferguson, president of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers — Transportation Division union that represents conductors. But, he added, “the recommendations do not go far enough to provide our members with the quality of life that they have earned, and that both they and their families deserve.”

The other 11 unions involved in the contract talks haven't yet commented on the details. Ferguson's comments echo some of the concerns individual railroad workers have been posting online since the report was released Tuesday.

Workers want the railroads to ease some of their restrictive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-5123fda3d039543700b23d939e0bdda2">attendance policies</a>&nbsp;that they say keep them on call and make it hard to take any days off. The unions also say that the always difficult railroad work has become significantly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-aab7d3084a8d17d8d721d2cb750be323">more demanding</a>&nbsp;in recent years after major freight railroads eliminated nearly one third of their jobs.

The railroads maintain that they don't need as many employees and locomotives as they used to because they overhauled their operations to run fewer, longer trains.

Ferguson said the recommendations from the panel of arbitrators don't do much to resolve the divide between railroad investors and executives who have benefitted from the recent record profits, and the workers who keep the trains running 24-7 and toiled throughout the pandemic.

The arbitrators said most of the unions' concerns about working conditions should be resolved through arbitration, which can drag on for years, instead of through the contract negotiations. The contract talks themselves have been going on for more than two years already.

The group that negotiates on behalf of the major railroads, the National Carriers Conference Committee, said the recommended deal would deliver the biggest raises in decades and push average railroad salaries up to $110,000 a year by the end of the five-year deal.

In addition to the raises, which are bigger than the 17% ones railroads were offering but not as generous as the 31% raises the unions sought, the recommended deal would include five $1,000 bonuses and one additional paid leave day a year.

Another key sticking point in the negotiations has been the railroads' proposal to cut train crews from two people down to one. The unions firmly oppose that move not just to protect jobs but also because they say they are concerned about safety.

Federal regulators&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/588d6f7829c4836b9d2feff5c21a5097">proposed a rule</a>&nbsp;last month that will require two-person crews in most instances, but railroads have continued pressing for the change because they say a new automatic braking system that can stop trains in certain circumstances makes having a second person in the cab unnecessary.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The head of the nation's largest railroad union says&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-strikes-a83dffef79d38e36dc25588b19bf54b4">the report</a>&nbsp;designed to help resolve stalled contract talks with freight railroads doesn't do enough to address concerns about working conditions, even though it suggests 24% raises.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-norfolk-government-and-politics-eeedec386f2acba5d63181436ca03f3f">railroads indicated</a>&nbsp;earlier this week that they were ready to hammer out a deal based on the recommendations of the Presidential Emergency Board that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-transportation-strikes-ba718974eb14fcd615d606bfcdffb3d2">Joe Biden appointed</a>&nbsp;last month. But Thursday's first comments from union leadership suggest that the 115,000 workers they represent may not be ready to sign off.Both sides have 30 days to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-government-and-politics-e579d80010954632d5da3977c02de90c">negotiate a contract</a>&nbsp;before federal law would allow a strike or lockout to happen. But if both sides do get to mid September without an agreement, Congress is likely to intervene and impose terms to avert a strike.The recommendations of the advisory were a “vast improvement” over the railroads’ previous proposals, said Jeremy Ferguson, president of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers — Transportation Division union that represents conductors. But, he added, “the recommendations do not go far enough to provide our members with the quality of life that they have earned, and that both they and their families deserve.”The other 11 unions involved in the contract talks haven't yet commented on the details. Ferguson's comments echo some of the concerns individual railroad workers have been posting online since the report was released Tuesday.Workers want the railroads to ease some of their restrictive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-5123fda3d039543700b23d939e0bdda2">attendance policies</a>&nbsp;that they say keep them on call and make it hard to take any days off. The unions also say that the always difficult railroad work has become significantly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-aab7d3084a8d17d8d721d2cb750be323">more demanding</a>&nbsp;in recent years after major freight railroads eliminated nearly one third of their jobs.The railroads maintain that they don't need as many employees and locomotives as they used to because they overhauled their operations to run fewer, longer trains.Ferguson said the recommendations from the panel of arbitrators don't do much to resolve the divide between railroad investors and executives who have benefitted from the recent record profits, and the workers who keep the trains running 24-7 and toiled throughout the pandemic.The arbitrators said most of the unions' concerns about working conditions should be resolved through arbitration, which can drag on for years, instead of through the contract negotiations. The contract talks themselves have been going on for more than two years already.The group that negotiates on behalf of the major railroads, the National Carriers Conference Committee, said the recommended deal would deliver the biggest raises in decades and push average railroad salaries up to $110,000 a year by the end of the five-year deal.In addition to the raises, which are bigger than the 17% ones railroads were offering but not as generous as the 31% raises the unions sought, the recommended deal would include five $1,000 bonuses and one additional paid leave day a year.Another key sticking point in the negotiations has been the railroads' proposal to cut train crews from two people down to one. The unions firmly oppose that move not just to protect jobs but also because they say they are concerned about safety.Federal regulators&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/588d6f7829c4836b9d2feff5c21a5097">proposed a rule</a>&nbsp;last month that will require two-person crews in most instances, but railroads have continued pressing for the change because they say a new automatic braking system that can stop trains in certain circumstances makes having a second person in the cab unnecessary.

Rail union: Plan for contract deal doesn't address concerns

By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission&nbsp;

Spend some time this summer in Nebraska’s state parks. During September, a variety of events are planned for those interested in history, conservation, nature and just having a good time. Here are several examples:

Chadron State Park hosting BioBlitz Sept. 9-10

Join natural resource experts and community volunteers as they discover the biodiversity of the Chadron State Park during the Sept. 9-10 BioBlitz.

A BioBlitz is a 24-hour inventory of all species in a specific area. This free event is designed for the entire family. A vehicle park entry permit is required.

Find the tentative schedule and required registration form in the events listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTcuNjIzODU5NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NhbGVuZGFyLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.eAwRgVzqUX7s0BS-V6fQfDSsu2DFScu89of3VjWXCis/s/497221906/br/142696102961-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov.</a>

Living History Weekend at Fort Atkinson is Sept. 3-4

Visit Fort Atkinson State Historical Park for Living History Weekend on Sept. 3-4 and see reenactors portray life in an 1820s military fort.

Activities take place from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. both days. They include military activity, mountain man camp, laundresses, blacksmithing, tin smithing, spinning/weaving, coopering and more.

Visit the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTcuNjIzODU5NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.YEWha1T-e2ILdRSnJG-tvKbUmb6APEK87mzSHDth4y0/s/497221906/br/142696102961-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for the full schedule.

A valid Nebraska park entry permit is required. A per person fee is required at the Harold W. Andersen Visitor Center of $2 per adult and $1 per child. For more information, contact the park at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ngpc.fort.atkinson@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ngpc.fort.atkinson@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-468-5611.

Enders Reservoir BioBlitz set for Sept. 3-4

Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area will host a BioBlitz on Sept. 3-4 for people of all ages.

By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission&nbsp;Spend some time this summer in Nebraska’s state parks. During September, a variety of events are planned for those interested in history, conservation, nature and just having a good time. Here are several examples:Chadron State Park hosting BioBlitz Sept. 9-10Join natural resource experts and community volunteers as they discover the biodiversity of the Chadron State Park during the Sept. 9-10 BioBlitz.A BioBlitz is a 24-hour inventory of all species in a specific area. This free event is designed for the entire family. A vehicle park entry permit is required.Find the tentative schedule and required registration form in the events listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTcuNjIzODU5NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NhbGVuZGFyLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.eAwRgVzqUX7s0BS-V6fQfDSsu2DFScu89of3VjWXCis/s/497221906/br/142696102961-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov.</a>Living History Weekend at Fort Atkinson is Sept. 3-4Visit Fort Atkinson State Historical Park for Living History Weekend on Sept. 3-4 and see reenactors portray life in an 1820s military fort.Activities take place from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. both days. They include military activity, mountain man camp, laundresses, blacksmithing, tin smithing, spinning/weaving, coopering and more.Visit the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTcuNjIzODU5NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.YEWha1T-e2ILdRSnJG-tvKbUmb6APEK87mzSHDth4y0/s/497221906/br/142696102961-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for the full schedule.A valid Nebraska park entry permit is required. A per person fee is required at the Harold W. Andersen Visitor Center of $2 per adult and $1 per child. For more information, contact the park at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ngpc.fort.atkinson@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ngpc.fort.atkinson@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-468-5611.Enders Reservoir BioBlitz set for Sept. 3-4Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area will host a BioBlitz on Sept. 3-4 for people of all ages.Participants will help set bat nets and reptile, amphibian and mammal traps on Sept. 3. The next day, they will learn more about the animals captured and released.Biologists will search for wildlife like frogs, snakes, fish, aquatic invasive species, birds, bats and other small mammals. Find the complete schedule in the events listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTcuNjIzODU5NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NhbGVuZGFyLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.L_0dKSwWNP-F3PB0Ijf2MyoLmgQ95lGpLCG5tIjU1tg/s/497221906/br/142696102961-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov.</a>The event is free, but a vehicle park entry permit is required. They can be purchased at the park the day of the event or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MTcuNjIzODU5NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.3mf23qUmWWS10ZexEQ2ORS4zExLS6d3e5bH26ERoLO8/s/497221906/br/142696102961-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.Merritt Reservoir SRA to host Full Harvest Moon HikeMerritt Reservoir State Recreation Area will host the Full Harvest Moon Hike on Sept. 10.Explore the seasonal changes tied to this moon on a guided hike from 8:30-9:30 p.m. Be prepared for a half-mile hike over uneven terrain. Participants should dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Bring a flashlight and bug spray. Meet at the Snake River Shelter.This program is free but a vehicle park entry permit is required.Mahoney State Park to host Nebraska Star Party on Sept. 16Come to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park on Sept. 16 for stargazing fun at the Nebraska Star Party.Powerful telescopes will be set up at the park’s golf shack so the public can get a glimpse of night sky spectaculars from 9-11:30 p.m. Stargazing will begin at dusk. Remember to bring camp chairs or blankets.The event is free but a vehicle park entry permit is required.Table Creek Rendezvous returns to Arbor LodgeEnjoy living history as the annual Table Creek Rendezvous comes to the&nbsp;Arbor Lodge&nbsp;State Historical Park grounds Sept. 24-25 for a Mountain Man era encampment.Enjoy demonstrations of blacksmithing, fabric dyes and printing, seed beadwork, rigid heddle weaving, leather crafting, Dutch oven cooking, fire building, skins and skulls, and more.Call Arbor Lodge at 402-873-7222 for more information. Mansion admission is $9 adults, $7 for ages 3-12. Demonstration hours are 11 a.m.-4 p.m.Niobrara State Park to host Buffalo Cookout and programNiobrara State Park will host a Buffalo Cookout with a Humanities Nebraska Program on Sept. 3.The event is at the Buffalo Cookout Pavilion, with the meal at 6 p.m. and the program, “Bad Man in a Better Place: Jesse James in Nebraska,” following.Reservations must be made by noon Sept. 3. The prices are $15 for age 13 and older and $12 for 12 and younger. Call 402-857-3373 for reservations.A vehicle park entry permit is required.2nd&nbsp;annual&nbsp;Ash Hollow Rendezvous scheduled Sept. 9-11The 2nd Annual Ash Hollow Rendezvous will be Sept. 9-11 at Ash Hollow State Historical Park.The public may participate but must be in pre-1840-period clothing and have pre-1840-styled knives, long bows or tomahawks. They also may walk through the encampment to see demonstrations on wooden utensil making, Dutch oven cooking, trap setting, teepee erection and take down, character portrayal, leather working and beading.There will be competitions such as a black powder shoot and hawk n’ knife (tomahawk and knife throwing) and archery.Admission is free with a vehicle park entry permit. For more information, or to become a participant, call 308-778-7708.

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