By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

Capital is an asset. When we talk about social capital, we are talking about people as assets - the people we are connected to. Social capital includes friends, family, neighbors, co-workers - the people who keep us from being socially isolated and who give us a sense of belonging. They tend to be like us and understand where we are coming from. Social capital is one of the most important resources we each have.

How many of us have asked a neighbor for something - an egg needed to finish a recipe? To water our lawn when we are out of town? A ride because our car won't start? Of course, we reciprocate when they need a favor.

How many of us have asked family members for a loan to get us by? Or to watch our children? Or to give us a place to stay when we have a crisis?

How many of us have friends we share our thoughts with? We tell them our stories, what we are doing, what is important to us, what we think is funny. We ask for their help when we want to sell something. We ask them to join us in projects we are working on in the community.

This type of social capital is called bonding capital. These are the people we rely on. They give us emotional and material support and help us get by in our day-to-day lives.

Bonding capital is an especially important resource for people in poverty. Relationships are critical, and families tend to be the center of the world. People trade stories, information, and opinions. They help each other out when money is tight, or the family is facing a crisis. We are more likely to go out of our way for someone we have a bond with, as opposed to someone we know nothing about.

We see bonding capital in immigrant communities, too. Newcomers live near people who are similar to them, speak their language, work in the same businesses. They help each other and make the transition to their new lives go more smoothly.

That has been true throughout the history of America. I grew up in northeast Nebraska where most of the settlers came from Germany in the late 1800 or early 1900's to farm. There were towns near us that were Czech, or Swedish, or Irish; many have summer celebrations of their roots. My great grandparents spoke German at home, sent their children to schools where German was spoken, attended a German Lutheran Church. They maintained and treasured their ethnic heritage until laws passed during World War I made those activities a crime. Their ethnic community continued to help friends and families overcome problems for many decades.

Bonding capital, the social support between family members and friends, is most effective in helping people get by in their current situations, their day-to-day lives.

Next week we will talk about bridging capital, the people we know who are different from us and not in our immediate social circle. Bridging capital are all the other people we have connections with. Our bridging capital can help us get ahead - to create those bridges out of poverty.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceCapital is an asset. When we talk about social capital, we are talking about people as assets - the people we are connected to. Social capital includes friends, family, neighbors, co-workers - the people who keep us from being socially isolated and who give us a sense of belonging. They tend to be like us and understand where we are coming from. Social capital is one of the most important resources we each have.How many of us have asked a neighbor for something - an egg needed to finish a recipe? To water our lawn when we are out of town? A ride because our car won't start? Of course, we reciprocate when they need a favor.How many of us have asked family members for a loan to get us by? Or to watch our children? Or to give us a place to stay when we have a crisis?How many of us have friends we share our thoughts with? We tell them our stories, what we are doing, what is important to us, what we think is funny. We ask for their help when we want to sell something. We ask them to join us in projects we are working on in the community.This type of social capital is called bonding capital. These are the people we rely on. They give us emotional and material support and help us get by in our day-to-day lives.Bonding capital is an especially important resource for people in poverty. Relationships are critical, and families tend to be the center of the world. People trade stories, information, and opinions. They help each other out when money is tight, or the family is facing a crisis. We are more likely to go out of our way for someone we have a bond with, as opposed to someone we know nothing about.We see bonding capital in immigrant communities, too. Newcomers live near people who are similar to them, speak their language, work in the same businesses. They help each other and make the transition to their new lives go more smoothly.That has been true throughout the history of America. I grew up in northeast Nebraska where most of the settlers came from Germany in the late 1800 or early 1900's to farm. There were towns near us that were Czech, or Swedish, or Irish; many have summer celebrations of their roots. My great grandparents spoke German at home, sent their children to schools where German was spoken, attended a German Lutheran Church. They maintained and treasured their ethnic heritage until laws passed during World War I made those activities a crime. Their ethnic community continued to help friends and families overcome problems for many decades.Bonding capital, the social support between family members and friends, is most effective in helping people get by in their current situations, their day-to-day lives.Next week we will talk about bridging capital, the people we know who are different from us and not in our immediate social circle. Bridging capital are all the other people we have connections with. Our bridging capital can help us get ahead - to create those bridges out of poverty.

Poverty In Our Area: Social capital

Columbus, Neb. –&nbsp;Nebraska Public Power District’s (NPPD) wholesale electric rates have once again ranked amongst the lowest in the country compared to roughly 800 wholesale electric providers.

Several years ago, NPPD wanted to benchmark its wholesale rate against others in the nation, helping the organization to keep a focus on costs, as well as showing how NPPD’s rates compare to its peers. To do this, NPPD established a goal of being in the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation’s (CFC’s) first quartile -- below the 25-percentile mark, which would indicate NPPD’s wholesale rate is among the lowest of peer wholesale utility rates. In 2020 NPPD met the goal by finishing at the 23.2 percentile and now that the data for 2021 has been finalized NPPD’s rank improved further, finishing at the 12.4 percentile.&nbsp;

“Meeting this goal has taken a focus and combined effort by all NPPD teammates,” says NPPD President and CEO Tom Kent. “The excellent performance of NPPD’s generating portfolio and the entire NPPD team has contributed to reaching this goal for the second year in a row. This achievement clearly shows the value of our diversified generation mix.”

NPPD’s wholesale rates have remained steady for five straight years with board members voting this past December to return $74.2 million dollars in rate stabilization funds back to its wholesale customers. NPPD has wholesale contracts with 38 municipalities and 23 rural public power districts and rural cooperatives across the state.

“NPPD continues to focus on financial management and performance excellence so we can successfully remain in the CFC’s first quartile and thus, keep rates affordable for our customers,” adds Kent. “Reaching this goal benefits NPPD and its wholesale and retail customers, and when combined with excellent performance in other areas of our business, it reinforces our mission and demonstrates the value NPPD provides to Nebraskans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

By NPPD Columbus, Neb. –&nbsp;Nebraska Public Power District’s (NPPD) wholesale electric rates have once again ranked amongst the lowest in the country compared to roughly 800 wholesale electric providers.Several years ago, NPPD wanted to benchmark its wholesale rate against others in the nation, helping the organization to keep a focus on costs, as well as showing how NPPD’s rates compare to its peers. To do this, NPPD established a goal of being in the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation’s (CFC’s) first quartile -- below the 25-percentile mark, which would indicate NPPD’s wholesale rate is among the lowest of peer wholesale utility rates. In 2020 NPPD met the goal by finishing at the 23.2 percentile and now that the data for 2021 has been finalized NPPD’s rank improved further, finishing at the 12.4 percentile.&nbsp;“Meeting this goal has taken a focus and combined effort by all NPPD teammates,” says NPPD President and CEO Tom Kent. “The excellent performance of NPPD’s generating portfolio and the entire NPPD team has contributed to reaching this goal for the second year in a row. This achievement clearly shows the value of our diversified generation mix.”NPPD’s wholesale rates have remained steady for five straight years with board members voting this past December to return $74.2 million dollars in rate stabilization funds back to its wholesale customers. NPPD has wholesale contracts with 38 municipalities and 23 rural public power districts and rural cooperatives across the state.“NPPD continues to focus on financial management and performance excellence so we can successfully remain in the CFC’s first quartile and thus, keep rates affordable for our customers,” adds Kent. “Reaching this goal benefits NPPD and its wholesale and retail customers, and when combined with excellent performance in other areas of our business, it reinforces our mission and demonstrates the value NPPD provides to Nebraskans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

NPPD ranks among the best for wholesale rates 

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

Nature Nerd Night to feature Ecological Superheroes on Aug. 16

Keystone species are animals that play a major role in their environment’s web of life. Often their existence helps support dozens of other species. Nebraska examples include prairie dogs, bison and beavers.

Join the virtual webinar Ecological Superheroes on Aug. 16 and learn more about how keystone species help living communities thrive. The free event starts at 7 p.m. Central time.

Registration is required through the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTkuNjA5ODU3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.ifG0ojqKtl1hJw5flGtZLoP8xxTiuNQonHuBQCPVXyM/s/497221906/br/141249735709-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. The Nebraska Nature Nerd Night series takes places on the third Tuesday of every month.

‘Science of’ virtual webinar series continues in August

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s popular “Science of” virtual webinar series continues in August. The topics for the 3 p.m. Central time webinars will be raptors on Aug. 4 and night sky ecology on Aug. 11.

The hourlong webinars are free, but separate registration is required for each. See the calendar event entries at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTkuNjA5ODU3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.6Xzsz9MDLF1ij89zUaEn-OlqqfQI9P65PnKm211ujz0/s/497221906/br/141249735709-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for registration links. The webinars will be recorded and posted to the Nebraska Game and Parks YouTube Education Channel.

Contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information or check out the events on Game and Parks’ Facebook page and the Nebraska Project WILD Facebook page.

Nebraska Nature Nerd Trivia Night scheduled for Aug. 23 in Lincoln

Grab your fellow nature nerds and join the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission as it hosts Nebraska Nature Nerd Trivia Night at Code Beer in Lincoln at 7 p.m. Aug. 23.

Nature is cool, so there is no shortage of topics questions could cover. Get your teams of no more than five players and be ready to compete for prizes. Registration is not required. This event is for adults only. The event is free to attend with a purchase from the host brewery.

For more information and or questions, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov</a>.

Kayaking Clean Up at Lake Zorinsky set for Aug. 11

Join Nebraska Game and Parks Commission outdoor educators in Omaha for Kayaking Clean Up at Lake Zorinsky on Aug. 11.

Trash bags and gloves will be provided for anyone interested in helping clean up trash while on the water during this night of service and kayaking. A limited number of kayaks will be available for those ages 12 and up who have no experience.

Meet at 6 p.m. in the parking lot east of 168th Street on the north side of the lake at the Zorinsky Lake Trailhead.

The event is free but registration is required. See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTkuNjA5ODU3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.6ZJc-wCenO3p8y4VAEHNfFyRW6rBkcxv1BIwAx1Gkj8/s/497221906/br/141249735709-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for registration links.

For more information, contact Grace Gaard at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:grace.gaard@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">grace.gaard@nebraska.gov</a>.

Virtual webinar to look at lessons from COVID-19 Pandemic

Evidence points to the many benefits associated with spending time in nature. Join a free, virtual webinar Aug. 10 that will explore the role of outdoor activity in driving improved mental well-being for youth during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Brent Jackson, a professor at Florida Gulf Coast University, will give the presentation at 12:30 p.m. Central time.

This webinar is part of the Conservation Education Lunch &amp; Learn Series. This series dives into the science behind educational efforts and practices by learning from experts on a variety of scientific and educational topics.

To register, or get more information on the series, see the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTkuNjA5ODU3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.mgobgei-DroPtlAdu4fSu2rRpYcMgWVjkCUfQfrlZtY/s/497221906/br/141249735709-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.

Try Birding by Kayak at Oliver Reservoir on Aug. 20

Join the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies to gain a new perspective on birds – from the water. In the Birding by Kayak event at 9:30 a.m. Aug. 20, paddlers/birders will discover the incredible birds that visit Oliver Reservoir near Kimball.

This free event will begin with an introduction to kayaking. Paddlers must be at least 10 years of age. Kayaks, life jackets and binoculars will be provided.

Registration is required by Aug. 15 and is limited to eight people. To register, go to Facebook and search for Birding By Kayak – Oliver Reservoir.

For more information, contact Delanie Bruce at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:delanie.bruce@birdconservancy.org" target="_blank">delanie.bruce@birdconservancy.org</a>.

By Nebraska Game and ParksNebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in August. Here are some opportunities:Nature Nerd Night to feature Ecological Superheroes on Aug. 16Keystone species are animals that play a major role in their environment’s web of life. Often their existence helps support dozens of other species. Nebraska examples include prairie dogs, bison and beavers.Join the virtual webinar Ecological Superheroes on Aug. 16 and learn more about how keystone species help living communities thrive. The free event starts at 7 p.m. Central time.Registration is required through the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTkuNjA5ODU3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.ifG0ojqKtl1hJw5flGtZLoP8xxTiuNQonHuBQCPVXyM/s/497221906/br/141249735709-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. The Nebraska Nature Nerd Night series takes places on the third Tuesday of every month.‘Science of’ virtual webinar series continues in AugustThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s popular “Science of” virtual webinar series continues in August. The topics for the 3 p.m. Central time webinars will be raptors on Aug. 4 and night sky ecology on Aug. 11.The hourlong webinars are free, but separate registration is required for each. See the calendar event entries at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTkuNjA5ODU3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.6Xzsz9MDLF1ij89zUaEn-OlqqfQI9P65PnKm211ujz0/s/497221906/br/141249735709-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for registration links. The webinars will be recorded and posted to the Nebraska Game and Parks YouTube Education Channel.Contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information or check out the events on Game and Parks’ Facebook page and the Nebraska Project WILD Facebook page.Nebraska Nature Nerd Trivia Night scheduled for Aug. 23 in LincolnGrab your fellow nature nerds and join the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission as it hosts Nebraska Nature Nerd Trivia Night at Code Beer in Lincoln at 7 p.m. Aug. 23.Nature is cool, so there is no shortage of topics questions could cover. Get your teams of no more than five players and be ready to compete for prizes. Registration is not required. This event is for adults only. The event is free to attend with a purchase from the host brewery.For more information and or questions, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov</a>.Kayaking Clean Up at Lake Zorinsky set for Aug. 11Join Nebraska Game and Parks Commission outdoor educators in Omaha for Kayaking Clean Up at Lake Zorinsky on Aug. 11.Trash bags and gloves will be provided for anyone interested in helping clean up trash while on the water during this night of service and kayaking. A limited number of kayaks will be available for those ages 12 and up who have no experience.Meet at 6 p.m. in the parking lot east of 168th Street on the north side of the lake at the Zorinsky Lake Trailhead.The event is free but registration is required. See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTkuNjA5ODU3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.6ZJc-wCenO3p8y4VAEHNfFyRW6rBkcxv1BIwAx1Gkj8/s/497221906/br/141249735709-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for registration links.For more information, contact Grace Gaard at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:grace.gaard@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">grace.gaard@nebraska.gov</a>.Virtual webinar to look at lessons from COVID-19 PandemicEvidence points to the many benefits associated with spending time in nature. Join a free, virtual webinar Aug. 10 that will explore the role of outdoor activity in driving improved mental well-being for youth during the COVID-19 pandemic.Dr. Brent Jackson, a professor at Florida Gulf Coast University, will give the presentation at 12:30 p.m. Central time.This webinar is part of the Conservation Education Lunch &amp; Learn Series. This series dives into the science behind educational efforts and practices by learning from experts on a variety of scientific and educational topics.To register, or get more information on the series, see the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTkuNjA5ODU3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.mgobgei-DroPtlAdu4fSu2rRpYcMgWVjkCUfQfrlZtY/s/497221906/br/141249735709-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.Try Birding by Kayak at Oliver Reservoir on Aug. 20Join the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies to gain a new perspective on birds – from the water. In the Birding by Kayak event at 9:30 a.m. Aug. 20, paddlers/birders will discover the incredible birds that visit Oliver Reservoir near Kimball.This free event will begin with an introduction to kayaking. Paddlers must be at least 10 years of age. Kayaks, life jackets and binoculars will be provided.Registration is required by Aug. 15 and is limited to eight people. To register, go to Facebook and search for Birding By Kayak – Oliver Reservoir.For more information, contact Delanie Bruce at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:delanie.bruce@birdconservancy.org" target="_blank">delanie.bruce@birdconservancy.org</a>.

Catch these Game and Parks education events in August

Gering, NE –&nbsp;&nbsp;Park Ranger Matt Salomon will present his program&nbsp;Wildlife Encounters on the Trail&nbsp;on Tuesday, July 19 at 7:00 p.m. inside the Scotts Bluff National Monument Visitor Center theater. The visitor center is located at 190276 Old Oregon Trail in Gering, NE.&nbsp;

Travelers of the mid-1800s were surprised by the vast bison herds they saw, frightened by the howling of prairie wolves at night, and terrified of the possibility of running into a grizzly bear as they made their way west. Join Ranger Salomon as he discusses the amazing ability of these animals to adapt to changing conditions and to succeed in living on the Great Plains. While these animals no longer call the Scotts Bluff area home, they continue to thrive in some of our grandest national parks. This program is FREE and appropriate for visitors of all ages.&nbsp;

Further information about Scotts Bluff National Monument programs and schedules are available at the visitor center, by calling 308-436-9700 or by visiting our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm" target="_blank">http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm</a>&nbsp;or Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps</a>.&nbsp;

By Scotts Bluff National MonumentGering, NE –&nbsp;&nbsp;Park Ranger Matt Salomon will present his program&nbsp;Wildlife Encounters on the Trail&nbsp;on Tuesday, July 19 at 7:00 p.m. inside the Scotts Bluff National Monument Visitor Center theater. The visitor center is located at 190276 Old Oregon Trail in Gering, NE.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658272729172.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Travelers of the mid-1800s were surprised by the vast bison herds they saw, frightened by the howling of prairie wolves at night, and terrified of the possibility of running into a grizzly bear as they made their way west. Join Ranger Salomon as he discusses the amazing ability of these animals to adapt to changing conditions and to succeed in living on the Great Plains. While these animals no longer call the Scotts Bluff area home, they continue to thrive in some of our grandest national parks. This program is FREE and appropriate for visitors of all ages.&nbsp;Further information about Scotts Bluff National Monument programs and schedules are available at the visitor center, by calling 308-436-9700 or by visiting our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm" target="_blank">http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm</a>&nbsp;or Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps</a>.&nbsp;

'Wildlife Encounters on the Trail' to be presented at Scotts Bluff National Monument

Brothers 27th Street Wings and Burgers is a popular place for food and entertainment in Scottsbluff.

Brothers is located at 2621 5th Avenue in the old Applebee's location.

"We wanted to get out of the nightclub business, so we went into the restaurant business," owner Chad Leeling said. "We wanted something around wings. I've always wanted a wings place here. And then we went into wings and burgers,  then decided we wanted steaks, pastas, a little bit of everything that you can't get in this town. We've got a full menu."

Leeling said the name of the restaurant was chosen&nbsp;to honor the special relationships between brothers.

"The way we got the name, we wanted something that kind of brought people together," Leeling said. "So brother, is a person who was there when you need him. Someone who picks you up when you fall. A person who sticks up for you when no one else will. A brother is always a friend. And that's kind of what we're all about here."

Leeling said Brothers has a good selection of burgers. Panhandle Post asked him what his best burger is.

"Probably our firehouse," Leeling said. "It's topped with battered and fried pastrami, jalapenos, sliced tomatoes, a special house made honey sriracha chili sauce, and salsa. That's probably one of our number one sellers. My favorite would be the brother's burger. It's american cheese, hashbrown, bacon, egg, lettuce, tomato and mayo."

Leeling said he loves the Scottsbluff community.

"I love our community, the way everybody comes together," Leeling said. "Whenever we have a problem; somebody has a tragedy, this community just seems to come together. And you know, that's kind of why I like doing these concerts. I don't make any money on them. Actually, most of them I lose money on. But, it just gives something back to the community. It gives people around here something to do."

Leeling has musicians perform on the outdoor patio of Brothers and also books national touring bands at 5 Rocks Amphitheater in Gering.

&nbsp; You can vote for the "Best Burger in the Panhandle" by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/22597580-e70b-4c20-ac62-720aa4ac8722#/questions">HERE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostBrothers 27th Street Wings and Burgers is a popular place for food and entertainment in Scottsbluff.Brothers is located at 2621 5th Avenue in the old Applebee's location.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658258561936.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We wanted to get out of the nightclub business, so we went into the restaurant business," owner Chad Leeling said. "We wanted something around wings. I've always wanted a wings place here. And then we went into wings and burgers, then decided we wanted steaks, pastas, a little bit of everything that you can't get in this town. We've got a full menu."Leeling said the name of the restaurant was chosen&nbsp;to honor the special relationships between brothers."The way we got the name, we wanted something that kind of brought people together," Leeling said. "So brother, is a person who was there when you need him. Someone who picks you up when you fall. A person who sticks up for you when no one else will. A brother is always a friend. And that's kind of what we're all about here."Leeling said Brothers has a good selection of burgers. Panhandle Post asked him what his best burger is."Probably our firehouse," Leeling said. "It's topped with battered and fried pastrami, jalapenos, sliced tomatoes, a special house made honey sriracha chili sauce, and salsa. That's probably one of our number one sellers. My favorite would be the brother's burger. It's american cheese, hashbrown, bacon, egg, lettuce, tomato and mayo."Leeling said he loves the Scottsbluff community."I love our community, the way everybody comes together," Leeling said. "Whenever we have a problem; somebody has a tragedy, this community just seems to come together. And you know, that's kind of why I like doing these concerts. I don't make any money on them. Actually, most of them I lose money on. But, it just gives something back to the community. It gives people around here something to do."Leeling has musicians perform on the outdoor patio of Brothers and also books national touring bands at 5 Rocks Amphitheater in Gering.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658258585151.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; You can vote for the "Best Burger in the Panhandle" by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/22597580-e70b-4c20-ac62-720aa4ac8722#/questions">HERE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brothers restaurant brings togetherness in Scottsbluff

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

Just how hot was it yesterday? Several of our stations with sufficiently long records recorded a top 10 hottest day all-time.

The 99F reading in Cheyenne tied for the 5th hottest day all-time with records back to 1872. 

The impressive 111F in Chadron tied for the second hottest day all-time, with records back to 1915. 

Scottsbluff tied for the 4th hottest day all-time, with records back to 1893. 

Note that several additional days may have tied for the final place listed on the graphic below.

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYJust how hot was it yesterday? Several of our stations with sufficiently long records recorded a top 10 hottest day all-time.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658247231564.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The 99F reading in Cheyenne tied for the 5th hottest day all-time with records back to 1872. The impressive 111F in Chadron tied for the second hottest day all-time, with records back to 1915. Scottsbluff tied for the 4th hottest day all-time, with records back to 1893. Note that several additional days may have tied for the final place listed on the graphic below.<figure>
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 </figure>

Chadron, Alliance, Scottsbluff, Sidney break temperature records

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 7/19/22

By Tricia Goes, Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District

This is the Crop Water Use Report for the week of July 18.

Over the past week, wheat used 2.31 inches.

Expected use by wheat for this week is 2.53 inches.

Over the past week, corn used 0.74 inches.

Expected use by corn for this week is 0.81 inches.

Over the past week, beets used 0.71 inches.

Expected use by beets for this week is 0.48 inches.

Over the past week, potatoes used 1.11 inches.

Expected use by potatoes for this week is 1.22 inches.

Over the past week, dry beans used 1.01 inches.

Expected use by dry beans for this week is 1.1 inches.

Over the past week, soybeans used 0.84 inches.

Expected use by soybeans for this week is 0.92 inches.

Over the past week, sunflowers used 0.21 inches.

Expected use by sunflowers for this week is 0.23 inches.

Over the past week, alfalfa used 2 inches.

Expected use by alfalfa for this week is 2.1 inches.

Over the past week, actively growing lawns used 1.60 inches.

Expected use by actively growing lawns for this week 1.70 inches.

Average ET gauge readings was 2.1 inches.

The weather forecast for the next week shows highs in the upper 80s and mid-90s, and lows in the 60s. It will be hot and dry throughout the week with no chance of rain.

In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 1 showed 32% water available at 12”, 72% water available at 24”, and 74% water available at 36”. The producer did irrigate. Remember this is in a Sandy Loam soil type with Corn planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.

In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 2 showed 39.4% water available at 8”, 36% water available at 18”, and 34.6% water available at 36”. The producer did NOT irrigate.

Remember this is in a Loam soil type with Wheat planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.

The crop water use report is completed using the average growth stage for each crop and ET gauge reading from across the district. To find the conversion for your specific crop growth stage, visit <a href="https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData">https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData</a>.

For more information or to inquire about ET gauges or soil moisture monitoring equipment, please contact Erin Lee at the Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District at 308.432.6190 or visit our website at <a href="http://www.unwnrd.org">www.unwnrd.org</a>. We are committed to helping Nebraskans conserve and protect groundwater.

By Tricia Goes, Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources DistrictThis is the Crop Water Use Report for the week of July 18.Over the past week, wheat used 2.31 inches.Expected use by wheat for this week is 2.53 inches.Over the past week, corn used 0.74 inches.Expected use by corn for this week is 0.81 inches.Over the past week, beets used 0.71 inches.Expected use by beets for this week is 0.48 inches.Over the past week, potatoes used 1.11 inches.Expected use by potatoes for this week is 1.22 inches.Over the past week, dry beans used 1.01 inches.Expected use by dry beans for this week is 1.1 inches.Over the past week, soybeans used 0.84 inches.Expected use by soybeans for this week is 0.92 inches.Over the past week, sunflowers used 0.21 inches.Expected use by sunflowers for this week is 0.23 inches.Over the past week, alfalfa used 2 inches.Expected use by alfalfa for this week is 2.1 inches.Over the past week, actively growing lawns used 1.60 inches.Expected use by actively growing lawns for this week 1.70 inches.Average ET gauge readings was 2.1 inches.The weather forecast for the next week shows highs in the upper 80s and mid-90s, and lows in the 60s. It will be hot and dry throughout the week with no chance of rain.In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 1 showed 32% water available at 12”, 72% water available at 24”, and 74% water available at 36”. The producer did irrigate. Remember this is in a Sandy Loam soil type with Corn planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 2 showed 39.4% water available at 8”, 36% water available at 18”, and 34.6% water available at 36”. The producer did NOT irrigate.Remember this is in a Loam soil type with Wheat planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.The crop water use report is completed using the average growth stage for each crop and ET gauge reading from across the district. To find the conversion for your specific crop growth stage, visit <a href="https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData">https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData</a>.For more information or to inquire about ET gauges or soil moisture monitoring equipment, please contact Erin Lee at the Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District at 308.432.6190 or visit our website at <a href="http://www.unwnrd.org">www.unwnrd.org</a>. We are committed to helping Nebraskans conserve and protect groundwater.

Upper Niobrara White NRD crop water use report, week of July 18

Karen Benzel discusses the "Stuff The Bus" school supplies drive.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=m484h-1278a52-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Karen Benzel discusses the "Stuff The Bus" school supplies drive.

POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska

POST PODCAST: Prairie Wind Casino (Paid)

Gering – Monument volunteer Jerry Lucas will give his talk about two legends of the fur trade inside the theater at the Scotts Bluff National Monument visitor center on Saturday, July 23 at 1:00 p.m.

In this FREE program, Lucas will compare two legendary stories of the fur trade era: the story of Hiram Scott whose remains were discovered near the base of the bluff that now bears his name, and the story of Hugh Glass whose story is the inspiration behind the book and motion picture “The Revenant.” The program will compare known facts of the events and similarities between the lives of the two men, and outline other facts and issues involved in each legend. It will hopefully answer the question "Is the Hiram Scott story mixed up with the Hugh Glass tale?"&nbsp;

The Scotts Bluff National Monument Visitor Center is located at 190276 Old Oregon Trail in Gering, Nebraska. &nbsp;

By Scotts Bluff National MonumentGering – Monument volunteer Jerry Lucas will give his talk about two legends of the fur trade inside the theater at the Scotts Bluff National Monument visitor center on Saturday, July 23 at 1:00 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587140447752.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.com" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.com</figcaption>
 </figure>In this FREE program, Lucas will compare two legendary stories of the fur trade era: the story of Hiram Scott whose remains were discovered near the base of the bluff that now bears his name, and the story of Hugh Glass whose story is the inspiration behind the book and motion picture “The Revenant.” The program will compare known facts of the events and similarities between the lives of the two men, and outline other facts and issues involved in each legend. It will hopefully answer the question "Is the Hiram Scott story mixed up with the Hugh Glass tale?"&nbsp;The Scotts Bluff National Monument Visitor Center is located at 190276 Old Oregon Trail in Gering, Nebraska. &nbsp;Further information about Scotts Bluff National Monument programs and schedules are available at the visitor center, by calling 308-436-9700 or by visiting our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm" target="_blank">http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm</a>&nbsp;or Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps</a>.&nbsp;

Program on 'Legends of the Fur Trade' set for Scotts Bluff National Monument

By Kyren Gibson, Carnegie Arts Center&nbsp; Quilters and fiber artists please join us for the artist reception of Milla Malchow, July 30th 5-7 p.m. at the Carnegie Arts Center. Please enjoy food and beverage while you get to meet the incredible artist who has dubbed her work, “Thread Painting.”&nbsp;

Her incredible pieces take three months to create from start to finish. All are created free hand using a long arm sewing machine. As a painter uses their brush and looks back and forth from reference to canvas, so does Milla, only her paint is thread. Her pieces can be comprised of over 100 different thread colors and thousands of stitches. Please join us in learning more about her artistic process and work. 

If you have any questions, please check out Carnegie Arts Center, Alliance, NE Facebook page. For more information about upcoming classes and events, also visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.carnegieartscenter.com/" target="_blank">www.carnegieartscenter.com</a>

As always, we want to thank the incredible local businesses that support arts opportunities for our community. Thank you to our June business sponsor WESTCO and our July Sponsors Dietrich &amp; Sautter, CPA's, Parker-Hannifin Corp, Alliance Tractor and Implement. We also want to thank our generous grantors who provide operational funding, the Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Last but certainly not least, we want to thank our grantors that make free and reduced cost art classes available through educational grant support. Thank you, DF Dillon Foundation, Snow Redfern Foundation, Mission Store, CA Story Foundation, Kimmel Foundation, and St. John’s Lutheran Church.

By Kyren Gibson, Carnegie Arts Center&nbsp; Quilters and fiber artists please join us for the artist reception of Milla Malchow, July 30th 5-7 p.m. at the Carnegie Arts Center. Please enjoy food and beverage while you get to meet the incredible artist who has dubbed her work, “Thread Painting.”&nbsp; Her incredible pieces take three months to create from start to finish. All are created free hand using a long arm sewing machine. As a painter uses their brush and looks back and forth from reference to canvas, so does Milla, only her paint is thread. Her pieces can be comprised of over 100 different thread colors and thousands of stitches. Please join us in learning more about her artistic process and work. The event is open to the public.&nbsp; If you have any questions, please check out Carnegie Arts Center, Alliance, NE Facebook page. For more information about upcoming classes and events, also visit our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.carnegieartscenter.com/" target="_blank">www.carnegieartscenter.com</a>As always, we want to thank the incredible local businesses that support arts opportunities for our community. Thank you to our June business sponsor WESTCO and our July Sponsors Dietrich &amp; Sautter, CPA's, Parker-Hannifin Corp, Alliance Tractor and Implement. We also want to thank our generous grantors who provide operational funding, the Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Last but certainly not least, we want to thank our grantors that make free and reduced cost art classes available through educational grant support. Thank you, DF Dillon Foundation, Snow Redfern Foundation, Mission Store, CA Story Foundation, Kimmel Foundation, and St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Carnegie Arts Center to hold Milla Malchow reception 

Scottsbluff – United Way of Western Nebraska’s “Stuff the Bus” is gearing up to help area school children. Stuff the Bus is United Way’s annual school supply drive to help local children and their families that may be unable to purchase the necessary school supplies for the school year. 

The public is encouraged to donate new schools supplies or make a monetary donation. The drive runs July 18 through August 5 with the mission to help local kids with school supplies.

 Donations of crayons, colored pencils, glue sticks and other school supplies are welcome to be dropped off at any of the ten drop off locations throughout the Nebraska Panhandle.

 Locations include: the United Way Offices in Scottsbluff and Alliance, Target in Scottsbluff, Gering Fire Department, City Hall in Mitchell, Chadron Fire Department, City Hall in Crawford, CAPWN in Sidney and WNCC in Alliance and Sidney. Monetary donations are welcome at uwwn.org/bus.

100% of all donations will help local kids with necessary school supplies. The monetary donations will be used to purchase school supplies with those supplies distributed to local children in need to help them get started on the right foot and succeed in school.

Monetary donations may be made online at uwwn.org/bus or mailed to United Way, P.O. Box 617, Alliance, NE 69301 or 1517 Broadway, Suite 106 Scottsbluff, NE 69361. For more information about Stuff the Bus or United Way please contact Karen Benzel at 308-763-8031 or kbenzel@uwwn.org.

United Way continues the strong tradition of ensuring that donor dollars stay local and the monies raised stay in the area where they were raised. Stuff the Bus is no exception, donations made for Stuff the Bus will help local children in the community. For more information about United Way, please visit uwwn.org

By United Way of Western NebraskaScottsbluff – United Way of Western Nebraska’s “Stuff the Bus” is gearing up to help area school children. Stuff the Bus is United Way’s annual school supply drive to help local children and their families that may be unable to purchase the necessary school supplies for the school year. The public is encouraged to donate new schools supplies or make a monetary donation. The drive runs July 18 through August 5 with the mission to help local kids with school supplies. Donations of crayons, colored pencils, glue sticks and other school supplies are welcome to be dropped off at any of the ten drop off locations throughout the Nebraska Panhandle. Locations include: the United Way Offices in Scottsbluff and Alliance, Target in Scottsbluff, Gering Fire Department, City Hall in Mitchell, Chadron Fire Department, City Hall in Crawford, CAPWN in Sidney and WNCC in Alliance and Sidney. Monetary donations are welcome at uwwn.org/bus.100% of all donations will help local kids with necessary school supplies. The monetary donations will be used to purchase school supplies with those supplies distributed to local children in need to help them get started on the right foot and succeed in school.Monetary donations may be made online at uwwn.org/bus or mailed to United Way, P.O. Box 617, Alliance, NE 69301 or 1517 Broadway, Suite 106 Scottsbluff, NE 69361. For more information about Stuff the Bus or United Way please contact Karen Benzel at 308-763-8031 or kbenzel@uwwn.org.United Way continues the strong tradition of ensuring that donor dollars stay local and the monies raised stay in the area where they were raised. Stuff the Bus is no exception, donations made for Stuff the Bus will help local children in the community. For more information about United Way, please visit uwwn.org

United Way of Western Nebraska gearing up for 'Stuff the Bus'

From the National Weather Service-North Platte

A red flag warning is in effect this afternoon and early evening for the eastern Nebraska Panhandle and central and western Sandhills.

From the National Weather Service-North PlatteA red flag warning is in effect this afternoon and early evening for the eastern Nebraska Panhandle and central and western Sandhills.<figure>
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Fire danger high for Nebraska Sandhills, Panhandle Tuesday

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — President Joe Biden on Friday blocked a freight railroad strike for at least 60 days by naming a board of arbitrators to intervene in the contract dispute, averting action that could have disrupted all kinds of shipments.

The widely expected move will keep 115,000 rail workers on the job while the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-global-trade-strikes-80286abcd32ae1b0ecd04066ddb5a8df">arbitrators</a>&nbsp;develop a set of contract recommendations for both sides to consider. Biden had to act before Monday to prevent a possible strike. A new round of negotiations is likely after those recommendations are issued.

The president wrote in an executive order naming the arbitrators that he'd "been notified by the National Mediation Board that in its judgment these disputes threaten substantially to interrupt interstate commerce to a degree that would deprive a section of the country of essential transportation service.”

If the railroads and their 12 unions can’t agree on a contract within the next 60 days, Congress would likely step in to prevent a strike by voting to impose terms or taking other action.

The United Rail Unions coalition said the labor unions are preparing to make their case to the board of arbitrators, and believe that current economic data shows the raises they are asking for “are more than warranted when compared to our memberships’ contribution to the record profits of the rail carriers.”

The National Carriers Conference Committee, which represents the nation’s freight railroads in national collective bargaining, cheered Biden's move, noting that it “remains in the best interest of all parties — and the public — for the railroads and rail labor organizations to promptly settle the bargaining round on reasonable terms that provide employees with prompt and well-deserved pay increases and prevent rail service disruptions.”

“Throughout the bargaining round, the railroads have worked to thoughtfully address issues raised by both sides and have offered pay increases that are consistent with labor market benchmarks and reward rail employees for their essential work,” the committee said in a statement.

Any prolonged rail strike could cripple the supply chain that has been slowly recovering from the backlogs and delays that became common during the pandemic because of worker shortages at the ports, trucking companies and railroads as demand for imports surged.

“It’s really in everybody’s best interests to avoid a strike,” Edward Jones analyst Jeff Windau said.

The group that represents Union Pacific, BNSF, CSX, Norfolk Southern, Kansas City Southern and other railroads and the unions have expressed optimism that this new presidential board will be able to help them resolve the dispute that began more than two years ago.

Business groups had urged Biden to take this step to ensure the railroads would continue operating. They worry about what a strike or lockout would mean for the fragile supply chain because railroads deliver all kinds of raw materials, finished products and imported goods that businesses rely on. A railroad strike could jeopardize the health of the economy.

The board of arbitrators will hold hearings with both sides to learn more about their positions before issuing their recommendations about a month from now. The the unions and the railroads will have 30 days to negotiate a new deal before a strike could be permitted under the federal law that governs railroad contract negotiations.

So far, the two sides have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-2669e8de879a3ffe11f8c51be045e3e1">remained far apart</a>&nbsp;because workers want raises that will offset inflation and cover increased health insurance costs while reflecting the current nationwide worker shortages. Railroads maintain that the double-digit raises they are offering over the five year contract that would date back to 2020 are fair based on the kind of raises other companies gave their workers at the time.

The unions are expecting significant raises because the railroads have been reporting record profits in recent years since they eliminated nearly one-third of their employees over the past six years as they overhauled their operations.

The unions also want the railroads to back off their proposals to cut train crews from two people down to one and ease some of the strict workplace rules they have adopted in recent years that workers say make it hard to take any time off.

Agreeing to a new deal would likely help the railroads hire more workers, which they are currently struggling to do. The major railroads have said they each need to hire hundreds more workers to handle the increased demand as the economy recovers and deal with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-omaha-7824a3d4042a757755ea76f55e51f641">chronic delays and missed deliveries</a>&nbsp;that have plagued their service this year.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — President Joe Biden on Friday blocked a freight railroad strike for at least 60 days by naming a board of arbitrators to intervene in the contract dispute, averting action that could have disrupted all kinds of shipments.The widely expected move will keep 115,000 rail workers on the job while the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-global-trade-strikes-80286abcd32ae1b0ecd04066ddb5a8df">arbitrators</a>&nbsp;develop a set of contract recommendations for both sides to consider. Biden had to act before Monday to prevent a possible strike. A new round of negotiations is likely after those recommendations are issued.The president wrote in an executive order naming the arbitrators that he'd "been notified by the National Mediation Board that in its judgment these disputes threaten substantially to interrupt interstate commerce to a degree that would deprive a section of the country of essential transportation service.”If the railroads and their 12 unions can’t agree on a contract within the next 60 days, Congress would likely step in to prevent a strike by voting to impose terms or taking other action.The United Rail Unions coalition said the labor unions are preparing to make their case to the board of arbitrators, and believe that current economic data shows the raises they are asking for “are more than warranted when compared to our memberships’ contribution to the record profits of the rail carriers.”The National Carriers Conference Committee, which represents the nation’s freight railroads in national collective bargaining, cheered Biden's move, noting that it “remains in the best interest of all parties — and the public — for the railroads and rail labor organizations to promptly settle the bargaining round on reasonable terms that provide employees with prompt and well-deserved pay increases and prevent rail service disruptions.”“Throughout the bargaining round, the railroads have worked to thoughtfully address issues raised by both sides and have offered pay increases that are consistent with labor market benchmarks and reward rail employees for their essential work,” the committee said in a statement.Any prolonged rail strike could cripple the supply chain that has been slowly recovering from the backlogs and delays that became common during the pandemic because of worker shortages at the ports, trucking companies and railroads as demand for imports surged.“It’s really in everybody’s best interests to avoid a strike,” Edward Jones analyst Jeff Windau said.The group that represents Union Pacific, BNSF, CSX, Norfolk Southern, Kansas City Southern and other railroads and the unions have expressed optimism that this new presidential board will be able to help them resolve the dispute that began more than two years ago.Business groups had urged Biden to take this step to ensure the railroads would continue operating. They worry about what a strike or lockout would mean for the fragile supply chain because railroads deliver all kinds of raw materials, finished products and imported goods that businesses rely on. A railroad strike could jeopardize the health of the economy.The board of arbitrators will hold hearings with both sides to learn more about their positions before issuing their recommendations about a month from now. The the unions and the railroads will have 30 days to negotiate a new deal before a strike could be permitted under the federal law that governs railroad contract negotiations.So far, the two sides have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-2669e8de879a3ffe11f8c51be045e3e1">remained far apart</a>&nbsp;because workers want raises that will offset inflation and cover increased health insurance costs while reflecting the current nationwide worker shortages. Railroads maintain that the double-digit raises they are offering over the five year contract that would date back to 2020 are fair based on the kind of raises other companies gave their workers at the time.The unions are expecting significant raises because the railroads have been reporting record profits in recent years since they eliminated nearly one-third of their employees over the past six years as they overhauled their operations.The unions also want the railroads to back off their proposals to cut train crews from two people down to one and ease some of the strict workplace rules they have adopted in recent years that workers say make it hard to take any time off.Agreeing to a new deal would likely help the railroads hire more workers, which they are currently struggling to do. The major railroads have said they each need to hire hundreds more workers to handle the increased demand as the economy recovers and deal with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-omaha-7824a3d4042a757755ea76f55e51f641">chronic delays and missed deliveries</a>&nbsp;that have plagued their service this year.

Biden intervenes in railroad contract fight to block strike

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte Post

WILCOX, Neb.-Authorities in Kearney County are investigating after a man died by electrocution on Saturday.

The Kearney County Sheriff's Office said deputies and Wilcox Fire and Rescue responded to the report of a man who had possibly been electrocuted just north of Wilcox.

Authorities said the man, identified as James Robinson, 39, of Wilcox, was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, where he later died.

An autopsy will be conducted, according to authorities. No further details were released.

<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a>

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostWILCOX, Neb.-Authorities in Kearney County are investigating after a man died by electrocution on Saturday.The Kearney County Sheriff's Office said deputies and Wilcox Fire and Rescue responded to the report of a man who had possibly been electrocuted just north of Wilcox.Authorities said the man, identified as James Robinson, 39, of Wilcox, was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, where he later died.An autopsy will be conducted, according to authorities. No further details were released.<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs or Android</a><figure>
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Wilcox man dies by electrocution, authorities investigating

One of America’s greatest civil rights heroes is from Nebraska.&nbsp; Yet nationally, almost nobody knows about him.&nbsp; As Nebraskans, we’re changing that by telling Chief Standing Bear’s story.

In the 1800s, Chief Standing Bear’s tribe—the Ponca—peacefully hunted and farmed on land in northeast Nebraska along the Niobrara River.&nbsp; In 1868, the federal government signed a treaty with the Sioux tribe, mistakenly granting them much of the Ponca’s territory.&nbsp; This led to conflict between the two tribes over the land.&nbsp; &nbsp;

In 1876, the federal government tried to convince Ponca leaders to move to Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma).&nbsp; Ten Ponca chiefs, including Standing Bear, traveled to Indian Territory to see the land.&nbsp; Together, they decided it would not be a suitable home for the Ponca tribe.&nbsp;

The federal government chose to move the Poncas anyway, deploying U.S. Army troops to force their relocation to Indian Territory in the spring of 1877.&nbsp; The journey—known as the Ponca Trail of Tears—was arduous.&nbsp; Many Poncas suffered from illness as they traveled south along muddy paths soaked by heavy spring rains.&nbsp; Signs of the hardship they endured are still visible today.&nbsp; In Neligh, a marble headstone marks&nbsp;<a href="https://history.nebraska.gov/blog/marker-monday-ponca-trail-tears-white-buffalo-girl#:~:text=Most%20of%20the%20tribe%20suffered,was%20erected%20at%20the%20gravesite." target="_blank">the gravesite of White Buffalo Girl</a>, one of the children who perished on the journey.&nbsp; Each Memorial Day, residents of Neligh decorate it with flowers to honor her.&nbsp; Chief Standing Bear’s own daughter, Prairie Flower, succumbed to illness and is buried near Milford.&nbsp; Seward County and the Nebraska State Historical Society have placed a&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hmdb.org%2FPhotos6%2F603%2FPhoto603554o.jpg&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cc95874b366a548e3bc1008da68e45918%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637937627199484620%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=1mx4HSSGNx9%2BIrrSHJqbrkOm9ASsT9smPSOdI%2BaDLQ0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">historical marker</a>&nbsp;a half-mile south of her gravesite.

Within two years of arriving in Indian Territory, Chief Standing Bear’s teenage son—Bear Shield—became gravely ill.&nbsp; His dying request to his father was to be buried in the Poncas’ homeland in Nebraska.&nbsp; The federal government had ordered the Ponca to remain in Indian Territory, but Chief Standing Bear was determined to fulfill his son’s final wish.&nbsp; In January 1879, he led a small group back to northeast Nebraska.&nbsp; They trekked 500 miles on foot through the bitter cold to carry Bear Shield’s body home.

In March 1879, federal soldiers arrested Chief Standing Bear and other Poncas for leaving Indian Territory without official permission, imprisoning them at Fort Omaha.&nbsp; U.S. Army General George Crook was tasked with detaining the Poncas.&nbsp; He felt they were being treated unfairly and sought the help of local journalist Thomas Henry Tibbles, an editor with the&nbsp;Omaha Daily Herald. &nbsp;Tibbles wrote an editorial on behalf of the Poncas and recruited two Omaha attorneys—John L. Webster and A.J. Poppleton—to take their case.&nbsp; They agreed to represent Standing Bear pro bono in a lawsuit against the federal government for wrongful detainment.

The trial started on April 30, 1879 and lasted two days.&nbsp; The federal government’s lawyers argued that Chief Standing Bear was not legally a person or citizen, and thus had no grounds to sue the government.&nbsp; Chief Standing Bear responded to their arguments with a stirring courtroom speech.&nbsp; Rising to his feet, and extending his hand toward the judge, he said: “That hand is not the color of yours, but if I pierce it, I shall feel pain. &nbsp;If you pierce your hand, you also feel pain. &nbsp;The blood that will flow from mine will be the same color as yours. &nbsp;I am a man. &nbsp;God made us both.”&nbsp;

His compelling testimony led to a landmark decision.&nbsp; District Court Judge Elmer S. Dundy (namesake of Dundy County) ruled that Chief Standing Bear was “a ‘person’ within the meaning of the laws of the United States” and deserved the same civil rights as anyone else in the United States.&nbsp; The decision reaffirmed the basic human dignity of Native Americans, entitling them to equal protection of the law.

Chief Standing Bear’s dedication to his family, his tribe, and the principle of equal human dignity changed history.&nbsp; Every American should learn the story of his courage and perseverance in seeking justice.&nbsp;

As Nebraskans, we’re working to bring greater visibility to Chief Standing Bear.&nbsp;

This year, Senator Tom Brewer sponsored a legislative resolution at my request to rename the State office building at 521 S. 14th St. as the Chief Standing Bear Justice Administration Building. &nbsp;We’re officially rededicating it this week.&nbsp; Artist Sarah Harris has created a mural of Chief Standing Bear’s life to adorn the inside of the building. &nbsp;Ben Victor—who sculpted the statues at Centennial Mall, Niobrara, and the U.S. Capitol—worked on a bust of Standing Bear for display outside of the building.&nbsp; Thank you to the members of the Ponca tribe, artists, State teammates, educators, and community supporters whose contributions have helped us tell the story of this great Nebraskan.

If you have questions about the State of Nebraska’s work to honor Chief Standing Bear, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; I hope you’ll join us in spreading the word about his life and legacy.

By Gov. Pete RickettsOne of America’s greatest civil rights heroes is from Nebraska.&nbsp; Yet nationally, almost nobody knows about him.&nbsp; As Nebraskans, we’re changing that by telling Chief Standing Bear’s story.In the 1800s, Chief Standing Bear’s tribe—the Ponca—peacefully hunted and farmed on land in northeast Nebraska along the Niobrara River.&nbsp; In 1868, the federal government signed a treaty with the Sioux tribe, mistakenly granting them much of the Ponca’s territory.&nbsp; This led to conflict between the two tribes over the land.&nbsp; &nbsp;In 1876, the federal government tried to convince Ponca leaders to move to Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma).&nbsp; Ten Ponca chiefs, including Standing Bear, traveled to Indian Territory to see the land.&nbsp; Together, they decided it would not be a suitable home for the Ponca tribe.&nbsp;The federal government chose to move the Poncas anyway, deploying U.S. Army troops to force their relocation to Indian Territory in the spring of 1877.&nbsp; The journey—known as the Ponca Trail of Tears—was arduous.&nbsp; Many Poncas suffered from illness as they traveled south along muddy paths soaked by heavy spring rains.&nbsp; Signs of the hardship they endured are still visible today.&nbsp; In Neligh, a marble headstone marks&nbsp;<a href="https://history.nebraska.gov/blog/marker-monday-ponca-trail-tears-white-buffalo-girl#:~:text=Most%20of%20the%20tribe%20suffered,was%20erected%20at%20the%20gravesite." target="_blank">the gravesite of White Buffalo Girl</a>, one of the children who perished on the journey.&nbsp; Each Memorial Day, residents of Neligh decorate it with flowers to honor her.&nbsp; Chief Standing Bear’s own daughter, Prairie Flower, succumbed to illness and is buried near Milford.&nbsp; Seward County and the Nebraska State Historical Society have placed a&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hmdb.org%2FPhotos6%2F603%2FPhoto603554o.jpg&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cc95874b366a548e3bc1008da68e45918%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637937627199484620%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=1mx4HSSGNx9%2BIrrSHJqbrkOm9ASsT9smPSOdI%2BaDLQ0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">historical marker</a>&nbsp;a half-mile south of her gravesite.Within two years of arriving in Indian Territory, Chief Standing Bear’s teenage son—Bear Shield—became gravely ill.&nbsp; His dying request to his father was to be buried in the Poncas’ homeland in Nebraska.&nbsp; The federal government had ordered the Ponca to remain in Indian Territory, but Chief Standing Bear was determined to fulfill his son’s final wish.&nbsp; In January 1879, he led a small group back to northeast Nebraska.&nbsp; They trekked 500 miles on foot through the bitter cold to carry Bear Shield’s body home.In March 1879, federal soldiers arrested Chief Standing Bear and other Poncas for leaving Indian Territory without official permission, imprisoning them at Fort Omaha.&nbsp; U.S. Army General George Crook was tasked with detaining the Poncas.&nbsp; He felt they were being treated unfairly and sought the help of local journalist Thomas Henry Tibbles, an editor with the&nbsp;Omaha Daily Herald. &nbsp;Tibbles wrote an editorial on behalf of the Poncas and recruited two Omaha attorneys—John L. Webster and A.J. Poppleton—to take their case.&nbsp; They agreed to represent Standing Bear pro bono in a lawsuit against the federal government for wrongful detainment.The trial started on April 30, 1879 and lasted two days.&nbsp; The federal government’s lawyers argued that Chief Standing Bear was not legally a person or citizen, and thus had no grounds to sue the government.&nbsp; Chief Standing Bear responded to their arguments with a stirring courtroom speech.&nbsp; Rising to his feet, and extending his hand toward the judge, he said: “That hand is not the color of yours, but if I pierce it, I shall feel pain. &nbsp;If you pierce your hand, you also feel pain. &nbsp;The blood that will flow from mine will be the same color as yours. &nbsp;I am a man. &nbsp;God made us both.”&nbsp;His compelling testimony led to a landmark decision.&nbsp; District Court Judge Elmer S. Dundy (namesake of Dundy County) ruled that Chief Standing Bear was “a ‘person’ within the meaning of the laws of the United States” and deserved the same civil rights as anyone else in the United States.&nbsp; The decision reaffirmed the basic human dignity of Native Americans, entitling them to equal protection of the law.Chief Standing Bear’s dedication to his family, his tribe, and the principle of equal human dignity changed history.&nbsp; Every American should learn the story of his courage and perseverance in seeking justice.&nbsp;As Nebraskans, we’re working to bring greater visibility to Chief Standing Bear.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>On October 15, 2017, we unveiled a statue of him at Centennial Mall in Lincoln as part of the State’s 150th&nbsp;anniversary celebration</li><li>On April 11, 2018, the Ponca Tribe dedicated a statute of Chief Standing Bear in Niobrara during its 25th&nbsp;annual powwow</li><li>On April 23, 2018, I signed LB807 to authorize Chief Standing Bear being one of two Nebraskans represented with a statue in the U.S. Capitol</li><li>On September 18, 2019, I joined U.S. Congressional leaders, Ponca tribal leaders, and fellow Nebraskans for&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwatch%2Flive%2F%3Fref%3Dwatch_permalink%26v%3D433089990887677&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cc95874b366a548e3bc1008da68e45918%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637937627199484620%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=kxHg6eLY9bjNfZDD%2BsD88x4LDmKb5sz6Yz1CT1ZjnEc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">the official unveiling of Chief Standing Bear’s statue</a>&nbsp;in Washington D.C.</li>
 </ul>This year, Senator Tom Brewer sponsored a legislative resolution at my request to rename the State office building at 521 S. 14th St. as the Chief Standing Bear Justice Administration Building. &nbsp;We’re officially rededicating it this week.&nbsp; Artist Sarah Harris has created a mural of Chief Standing Bear’s life to adorn the inside of the building. &nbsp;Ben Victor—who sculpted the statues at Centennial Mall, Niobrara, and the U.S. Capitol—worked on a bust of Standing Bear for display outside of the building.&nbsp; Thank you to the members of the Ponca tribe, artists, State teammates, educators, and community supporters whose contributions have helped us tell the story of this great Nebraskan.If you have questions about the State of Nebraska’s work to honor Chief Standing Bear, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; I hope you’ll join us in spreading the word about his life and legacy.

Gov. Ricketts: Telling the Story of Chief Standing Bear

Hot Springs, SD, July 13, 2022 — Fall River Health Services is proud to announce the collaboration with the Communities That Care organization. Communities That Care (CTC) mission guides communities through a proven fivephase change process. Using prevention science as its base, CTC promotes healthy youth development, improves youth outcomes, and reduces problem behaviors.

• STEP 1: Introduce CTC to your community.

• STEP 2: Organize a community board or collaborate with an existing coalition.

• STEP 3: Assess community risks and strengths using data.

• STEP 4: Create a community action plan for prevention work.

• STEP 5: Implement and evaluate programs and policies, monitor the effectiveness of those programs and policies, and measure results to ensure improvements are achieved.

Communities That Care was proven effective and tested in a randomized controlled trial. 24 communities across 7 states were matched in pairs within state and randomly assigned to either receive CTC or serve as control communities. Starting in 5th grade, a panel of 4407 students has been followed by our researchers, with positive effects in the CTC group sustained into adulthood. Illegal substance use has gone down substantially. Implementation of the CTC system has increased compassion and reduced the stigma of mental health issues and suicide. Results have proven teens talk much more to their friends about suicide risk—providing hope and help, when needed.

FRHS received a grant from the SD State Department of Health to implement CTC. This will allow the Fall River community to have a local coordinator to work with key CTC instructors throughout the process, along with key community leaders to employ a Social Development Strategy. The strategy is proven to foster the success of young people through every stage of development in the Fall River County. For every dollar invested in CTC, $11.14 is returned in the form of lower criminal justice system, crime victim, and health care costs, and increased earnings and tax revenues.

FRHS understands the significant effects on youth health and behavior problems that produce long-term economic benefits. For more information or to get involved please contact, Alexander Nelson, CTC Coalition Coordinator, at anelson27@frhssd.org or by phone, 605.745.8910, Ext: 2160. FRHS has their community at heart.

By Fall River Health ServicesHot Springs, SD, July 13, 2022 — Fall River Health Services is proud to announce the collaboration with the Communities That Care organization. Communities That Care (CTC) mission guides communities through a proven fivephase change process. Using prevention science as its base, CTC promotes healthy youth development, improves youth outcomes, and reduces problem behaviors.The five practical steps:• STEP 1: Introduce CTC to your community.• STEP 2: Organize a community board or collaborate with an existing coalition.• STEP 3: Assess community risks and strengths using data.• STEP 4: Create a community action plan for prevention work.• STEP 5: Implement and evaluate programs and policies, monitor the effectiveness of those programs and policies, and measure results to ensure improvements are achieved.Communities That Care was proven effective and tested in a randomized controlled trial. 24 communities across 7 states were matched in pairs within state and randomly assigned to either receive CTC or serve as control communities. Starting in 5th grade, a panel of 4407 students has been followed by our researchers, with positive effects in the CTC group sustained into adulthood. Illegal substance use has gone down substantially. Implementation of the CTC system has increased compassion and reduced the stigma of mental health issues and suicide. Results have proven teens talk much more to their friends about suicide risk—providing hope and help, when needed.FRHS received a grant from the SD State Department of Health to implement CTC. This will allow the Fall River community to have a local coordinator to work with key CTC instructors throughout the process, along with key community leaders to employ a Social Development Strategy. The strategy is proven to foster the success of young people through every stage of development in the Fall River County. For every dollar invested in CTC, $11.14 is returned in the form of lower criminal justice system, crime victim, and health care costs, and increased earnings and tax revenues.FRHS understands the significant effects on youth health and behavior problems that produce long-term economic benefits. For more information or to get involved please contact, Alexander Nelson, CTC Coalition Coordinator, at anelson27@frhssd.org or by phone, 605.745.8910, Ext: 2160. FRHS has their community at heart.

Fall River Health Services implements Communities That Care Program

LINCOLN, Neb.-Duck hunters must again choose between two daily bag limits when registering for their Harvest Information Program number this year.

Nebraska and South Dakota are entering the second year of a “two-tier” program for the regular duck season.

Tier I is a traditional six-duck bag limit with species and sex restrictions. Tier II is a three-duck bag limit with no species or sex restrictions.

HIP registration begins Aug. 1. When hunters go to register, they will be asked whether they plan to hunt ducks. If so, they will be prompted to select a tier. Hunters will be bound to that bag limit for the entire season.

The regulations will not apply to goose limits or during the early teal season, which have their own bag limits.

All hunters age 16 and older, including residents, nonresidents, lifetime permit holders, veterans and senior permit holders, are required to register for HIP if they plan to hunt migratory game birds in Nebraska between Sept. 1, 2022, and July 31, 2023.

Residents under the age of 16 are exempt from the HIP requirement if they choose the Tier I bag limit but must register for HIP if selecting Tier II. All nonresidents under the age of 16 must register for HIP regardless of the tier they select.

Hunters who choose the Tier II option will be provided a journal, where they will record information on hunting activity and harvest. The journal will be submitted to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission at the end of the hunting season.

In addition, postage-paid envelopes will be provided to most Tier II hunters with the expectation that a wing from each duck harvested be sent. This process is similar to federal collection efforts to estimate harvest. Duck harvest and species composition will then be compared to hunters using the Tier I option. If enough wings are not received to evaluate the harvest by Tier II hunters, the program will be unlikely to continue past the experimental phase.

Starting Aug. 1, hunters can register for HIP at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjE4OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvSElQIn0.AB1-WeikxaruIAYEumETTSQVAOfYa3zX1GtbRg1O1YQ/s/1372948182/br/141190952414-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/HIP</a>. Registered hunters are assigned a number that they must carry with them while hunting.

HIP, which is required by federal regulation of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, helps wildlife managers estimate the number of migratory game birds harvested each year. Migratory birds include doves, ducks, geese, snipe, rail, coots and woodcock.

The two-tier program will continue for the next three seasons, and then be reexamined to determine whether it affected waterfowl hunter numbers and duck populations.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571333039832.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>By NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKS COMMISSIONLINCOLN, Neb.-Duck hunters must again choose between two daily bag limits when registering for their Harvest Information Program number this year.Nebraska and South Dakota are entering the second year of a “two-tier” program for the regular duck season.Tier I is a traditional six-duck bag limit with species and sex restrictions. Tier II is a three-duck bag limit with no species or sex restrictions.HIP registration begins Aug. 1. When hunters go to register, they will be asked whether they plan to hunt ducks. If so, they will be prompted to select a tier. Hunters will be bound to that bag limit for the entire season.The regulations will not apply to goose limits or during the early teal season, which have their own bag limits.All hunters age 16 and older, including residents, nonresidents, lifetime permit holders, veterans and senior permit holders, are required to register for HIP if they plan to hunt migratory game birds in Nebraska between Sept. 1, 2022, and July 31, 2023.Residents under the age of 16 are exempt from the HIP requirement if they choose the Tier I bag limit but must register for HIP if selecting Tier II. All nonresidents under the age of 16 must register for HIP regardless of the tier they select.Hunters who choose the Tier II option will be provided a journal, where they will record information on hunting activity and harvest. The journal will be submitted to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission at the end of the hunting season.In addition, postage-paid envelopes will be provided to most Tier II hunters with the expectation that a wing from each duck harvested be sent. This process is similar to federal collection efforts to estimate harvest. Duck harvest and species composition will then be compared to hunters using the Tier I option. If enough wings are not received to evaluate the harvest by Tier II hunters, the program will be unlikely to continue past the experimental phase.Starting Aug. 1, hunters can register for HIP at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA3MTguNjA5MjE4OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvSElQIn0.AB1-WeikxaruIAYEumETTSQVAOfYa3zX1GtbRg1O1YQ/s/1372948182/br/141190952414-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/HIP</a>. Registered hunters are assigned a number that they must carry with them while hunting.HIP, which is required by federal regulation of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, helps wildlife managers estimate the number of migratory game birds harvested each year. Migratory birds include doves, ducks, geese, snipe, rail, coots and woodcock.The two-tier program will continue for the next three seasons, and then be reexamined to determine whether it affected waterfowl hunter numbers and duck populations.For more information on the two-tier system, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDkuMzg1MjgyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9EdWNrVGllcnMvIn0.sGp8ujAJ3FB0JkNoRwBnsn5SrMIQu58-t08--DVmUaU%2Fs%2F559670190%2Fbr%2F101762316787-l&amp;data=04%7C01%7Cjerry.kane%40nebraska.gov%7C0e5a4e13e944419529c608d8fb7e9875%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637535868432207069%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=UewzxMbL3SMKHRmbMiZtblVlVk0CjRmvyaV1hJd0gmY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/DuckTiers</a>.

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