LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– The Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges voted Monday to appoint Dr. Jodi Kupper as the next President of Chadron State College, removing the “interim” designation from her title and affirming their full confidence in her leadership and vision for the College’s future.

After surfacing as a finalist during the 2023 Chadron State Presidential search, Kupper was selected to serve as interim president in June. Her years of experience with the Nebraska State College System and familiarity with Nebraska and the region allowed her to make an immediate impact on shaping the direction of the college.

“From day one, Dr. Kupper brought clarity, momentum, and a deep commitment to Chadron State’s success,” said Board Vice Chair Marjean Terrell. “Her results speak louder than any résumé. With her leadership, Chadron State is moving forward with purpose and optimism. The right leader is already here.”

Trustee Danny Renaga added, “Dr. Kupper has reignited energy across the campus and community. She’s earned the confidence of everyone around her, and in my opinion, she’s already proven she’s the right person for the job.”

Chancellor Paul Turman said the Board’s decision comes at a pivotal time for Chadron State and reflects confidence in Dr. Kupper’s ability to lead decisively.

“The time for action is now,” Turman said. “Chadron State is at an important crossroads, and we need strong, steady leadership to keep building momentum. Dr. Kupper understands the challenges ahead and has already begun positioning the College for success. Her vision, collaboration, and results-oriented approach are exactly what Chadron State needs to move forward.”

Since becoming interim president, Dr. Kupper has:

“Dr. Kupper leads with both vision and heart,” said Terrell. “Her deep understanding of the NSCS mission and her focus on results make her exactly the kind of leader Chadron State needs for the future.”

Dr. Kupper expressed gratitude for the appointment and optimism about the College’s direction.

“I’m deeply honored by the Board’s confidence and excited to continue leading this extraordinary community,” Kupper said. “Chadron State’s strength lies in its people, their passion, dedication, and belief in our mission. Together, we are building on our momentum to create new opportunities and a bright future for our students and the region we serve.”

Dr. Kupper has served as Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs for the Nebraska State College System since 2014. Previously, she served at Peru State College as Dean of the School of Education from 2005 to 2014, and at Millikin University as Associate Professor of Education and Director of the School of Education from 2003 to 2005, and as Assistant Professor of Education from 1998 to 2003.

Kupper earned a Bachelor of Science in Education (secondary education) from Wayne State College, a Master of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Nebraska – Omaha, and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Administration, Curriculum, and Instruction from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.

By Nebraska State College System<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760391101066.jpeg" alt="Dr. Jodi Kupper (courtesy Nebraska State College System)" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Jodi Kupper (courtesy Nebraska State College System)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– The Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges voted Monday to appoint Dr. Jodi Kupper as the next President of Chadron State College, removing the “interim” designation from her title and affirming their full confidence in her leadership and vision for the College’s future.After surfacing as a finalist during the 2023 Chadron State Presidential search, Kupper was selected to serve as interim president in June. Her years of experience with the Nebraska State College System and familiarity with Nebraska and the region allowed her to make an immediate impact on shaping the direction of the college.“From day one, Dr. Kupper brought clarity, momentum, and a deep commitment to Chadron State’s success,” said Board Vice Chair Marjean Terrell. “Her results speak louder than any résumé. With her leadership, Chadron State is moving forward with purpose and optimism. The right leader is already here.”Trustee Danny Renaga added, “Dr. Kupper has reignited energy across the campus and community. She’s earned the confidence of everyone around her, and in my opinion, she’s already proven she’s the right person for the job.”Chancellor Paul Turman said the Board’s decision comes at a pivotal time for Chadron State and reflects confidence in Dr. Kupper’s ability to lead decisively.“The time for action is now,” Turman said. “Chadron State is at an important crossroads, and we need strong, steady leadership to keep building momentum. Dr. Kupper understands the challenges ahead and has already begun positioning the College for success. Her vision, collaboration, and results-oriented approach are exactly what Chadron State needs to move forward.”Since becoming interim president, Dr. Kupper has:<ul>
 <li>Reenergized strategic planning, reactivating the Strategic Planning Task Force and advancing a comprehensive plan for Board approval in early 2026.</li><li>Strengthened enrollment initiatives through a Strategic Enrollment Management plan with measurable goals for growth across all student populations.</li><li>Reestablished critical partnerships with key stakeholders in the region.</li>
 </ul>“Dr. Kupper leads with both vision and heart,” said Terrell. “Her deep understanding of the NSCS mission and her focus on results make her exactly the kind of leader Chadron State needs for the future.”Dr. Kupper expressed gratitude for the appointment and optimism about the College’s direction.“I’m deeply honored by the Board’s confidence and excited to continue leading this extraordinary community,” Kupper said. “Chadron State’s strength lies in its people, their passion, dedication, and belief in our mission. Together, we are building on our momentum to create new opportunities and a bright future for our students and the region we serve.”About Dr. Jodi KupperDr. Kupper has served as Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs for the Nebraska State College System since 2014. Previously, she served at Peru State College as Dean of the School of Education from 2005 to 2014, and at Millikin University as Associate Professor of Education and Director of the School of Education from 2003 to 2005, and as Assistant Professor of Education from 1998 to 2003.Kupper earned a Bachelor of Science in Education (secondary education) from Wayne State College, a Master of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Nebraska – Omaha, and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Administration, Curriculum, and Instruction from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.

Board of Trustees Appoints Kupper as Chadron State President

Fall is upon us and snow could come at any day. We would like to remind all of our community members that City Ordinance §16-308 Recreational vehicles; storage was changed in December of 2016 in an effort to keep our roadways clear during the winter making snow removal easier.

We are asking our residents to assist in these efforts by removing the below listed vehicle types from City streets by Nov. 1 through March 31.

The following vehicle types are affected by City Ordinance §16-308:

Any motor vehicle or trailer designed and used as a travel trailer, camper, motor home, tent trailer, boat trailer, ATV/UTV trailer, snowmobile trailer, camping trailer, cargo trailer, trailer of any kind, or bus.

If you would like a complete copy of the City of Chadron City Ordinance(s) they can be viewed online at <a href="https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/445/City-Ordinances">https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/445/City-Ordinances</a>

We are putting this out a couple weeks ahead of the deadline in order to allow people to make the appropriate arrangements for their recreational vehicles. When Nov. 1 comes, officers will be enforcing this ordinance. If there are any questions, please contact the Chadron Police Department at (308) 432-0510.

By City of Chadron Police Department<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760390903765.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Fall is upon us and snow could come at any day. We would like to remind all of our community members that City Ordinance §16-308 Recreational vehicles; storage was changed in December of 2016 in an effort to keep our roadways clear during the winter making snow removal easier.We are asking our residents to assist in these efforts by removing the below listed vehicle types from City streets by Nov. 1 through March 31.The following vehicle types are affected by City Ordinance §16-308:Any motor vehicle or trailer designed and used as a travel trailer, camper, motor home, tent trailer, boat trailer, ATV/UTV trailer, snowmobile trailer, camping trailer, cargo trailer, trailer of any kind, or bus.If you would like a complete copy of the City of Chadron City Ordinance(s) they can be viewed online at <a href="https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/445/City-Ordinances">https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/445/City-Ordinances</a>We are putting this out a couple weeks ahead of the deadline in order to allow people to make the appropriate arrangements for their recreational vehicles. When Nov. 1 comes, officers will be enforcing this ordinance. If there are any questions, please contact the Chadron Police Department at (308) 432-0510.

Recreational Vehicle Parking Reminder in Chadron

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760390667003.jpeg" alt="Santa's Helpers event information" />
 <figcaption>Santa's Helpers event information</figcaption>
 </figure>

Details Released for Santa's Helpers Event on December 14

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Ticket To Anxiety

ALLIANCE, Neb. – Denver Air Connection (DAC) is expanding service at Alliance Municipal Airport (AIA) this fall with the addition of more flights to Denver International Airport (DEN).

Alliance now offers two daily flight options to/from Denver. The enhanced schedule will give travelers greater flexibility and strengthen the vital air link between Alliance and the Denver hub.

The expanded schedule, now available for purchase on <a href="http://denverairconnection.com">denverairconnection.com</a>, is designed to ensure reliable connectivity throughout the fall and winter months while maintaining DAC’s reputation for safe, efficient, and customer-focused service.

Passengers have the option to book connections from Alliance on partner airline websites: <a href="http://United.com">United.com</a>, <a href="http://AA.com">AA.com</a>, and <a href="http://Delta.com">Delta.com</a>, and enjoy seamless travel on one itinerary with automatic baggage transfers to the final destination.

For more information, please contact Tonya Ruhsenberger at 303-768-9626 or at truhsenberger@keylimeair.com.

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760368124030.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – Denver Air Connection (DAC) is expanding service at Alliance Municipal Airport (AIA) this fall with the addition of more flights to Denver International Airport (DEN).Alliance now offers two daily flight options to/from Denver. The enhanced schedule will give travelers greater flexibility and strengthen the vital air link between Alliance and the Denver hub.The expanded schedule, now available for purchase on <a href="http://denverairconnection.com">denverairconnection.com</a>, is designed to ensure reliable connectivity throughout the fall and winter months while maintaining DAC’s reputation for safe, efficient, and customer-focused service.Passengers have the option to book connections from Alliance on partner airline websites: <a href="http://United.com">United.com</a>, <a href="http://AA.com">AA.com</a>, and <a href="http://Delta.com">Delta.com</a>, and enjoy seamless travel on one itinerary with automatic baggage transfers to the final destination.For more information, please contact Tonya Ruhsenberger at 303-768-9626 or at truhsenberger@keylimeair.com.

Denver Air Connection Adds Flights at Alliance Municipal Airport

ALLIANCE HOMECOMING: Rocky Almond

KEARNEY, Neb. —&nbsp;Nebraska NetFest, a weekend of exciting competition in volleyball and pickleball, will take place this weekend, October 17-19, in Kearney.

The NetFest Singles &amp; Mixed Doubles Pickleball Championships will begin Friday, Oct. 17, with Singles competition, followed by Mixed Doubles on Saturday and Sunday. A total of 48 players are registered to participate.

The NetFest Volleyball State Championships will welcome 72 teams. Teams in the 3rd-6th&nbsp;divisions will compete in a one-day tournament on Saturday, followed by the 7th/8th&nbsp;division on Sunday.

The brand-new Kearney SportsPlex will serve as the venue for both events. For schedules and more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00197sjq72MixD53jXfnMqVYsEYmwsNtcDxUrWgeS2pXJ4ONpZmCAuMebUtOWCx9Bb-2RbUtp0KfE5AhoY_bLi9f7W4aOoyo0I53I5hlM6Fu0AG6_D7KEWwSI3EV0HzoCr1ntEqUND-cCHNalrHKFgY6bDm91HSagaUFHvylKAmq8Q=&amp;c=-4OzHS5vxSs8C-4CqypIeuqJSm6APDn3Rvs13--6QwN43PCuO3sAZg==&amp;ch=dc_psMZUmDBdEQTg-HRrbQzL4bpL9xW2B2YfMyQ--mPYmGFKAGvnGg==" target="_blank">NebraskaSportsCouncil.com</a>.

Nebraska NetFest Pickleball and Volleyball is presented by Visit Kearney and hosted by Kearney SportsPlex and the City of Kearney Park and Recreation. Contributing partners include AKRS Equipment / John Deere, New West Sports Medicine &amp; Orthopaedic Surgery, Edgewater Insurance + Real Estate, The Chicken Coop, MCL Construction and Younes Hospitality.

Nebraska NetFest is organized by the Nebraska Sports Council, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing quality competition for amateur athletes of all ages and skill levels while promoting healthy and active lifestyles.

Platinum partners of the Nebraska Sports Council include FMNE Insurance, Grand Island Tourism, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center and Pepsi-Cola of Lincoln.

By Nebraska Sports Council<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760366337248.png" alt="Nebraska Sports Council" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Sports Council</figcaption>
 </figure>KEARNEY, Neb. —&nbsp;Nebraska NetFest, a weekend of exciting competition in volleyball and pickleball, will take place this weekend, October 17-19, in Kearney.The NetFest Singles &amp; Mixed Doubles Pickleball Championships will begin Friday, Oct. 17, with Singles competition, followed by Mixed Doubles on Saturday and Sunday. A total of 48 players are registered to participate.The NetFest Volleyball State Championships will welcome 72 teams. Teams in the 3rd-6th&nbsp;divisions will compete in a one-day tournament on Saturday, followed by the 7th/8th&nbsp;division on Sunday.The brand-new Kearney SportsPlex will serve as the venue for both events. For schedules and more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00197sjq72MixD53jXfnMqVYsEYmwsNtcDxUrWgeS2pXJ4ONpZmCAuMebUtOWCx9Bb-2RbUtp0KfE5AhoY_bLi9f7W4aOoyo0I53I5hlM6Fu0AG6_D7KEWwSI3EV0HzoCr1ntEqUND-cCHNalrHKFgY6bDm91HSagaUFHvylKAmq8Q=&amp;c=-4OzHS5vxSs8C-4CqypIeuqJSm6APDn3Rvs13--6QwN43PCuO3sAZg==&amp;ch=dc_psMZUmDBdEQTg-HRrbQzL4bpL9xW2B2YfMyQ--mPYmGFKAGvnGg==" target="_blank">NebraskaSportsCouncil.com</a>.Nebraska NetFest Pickleball and Volleyball is presented by Visit Kearney and hosted by Kearney SportsPlex and the City of Kearney Park and Recreation. Contributing partners include AKRS Equipment / John Deere, New West Sports Medicine &amp; Orthopaedic Surgery, Edgewater Insurance + Real Estate, The Chicken Coop, MCL Construction and Younes Hospitality.Nebraska NetFest is organized by the Nebraska Sports Council, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing quality competition for amateur athletes of all ages and skill levels while promoting healthy and active lifestyles.Platinum partners of the Nebraska Sports Council include FMNE Insurance, Grand Island Tourism, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center and Pepsi-Cola of Lincoln.

Nebraska NetFest Set to Take Place in Kearney This Weekend

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved changes to sportfishing orders at its meeting Oct. 10 at Niobrara State Park. These orders regard daily bag limits, possession limits and open areas.

The amendments to sportfishing orders are:

Commissioners also approved sportfishing regulation amendments that remove redundant language, reorganize paddlefish regulations for clarity, provide new definitions of terms, and add new water bodies and renovated water bodies to the list of waters where possession of live baitfish is unlawful.

Commissioners approved wildlife regulation amendments that clarify rules for buying a preference or bonus point, allow the use of breech-loading muzzleloaders during the muzzleloader season, combine checking requirements for bobcat, gray fox and river otter and move language on incidentally caught otters from one chapter of regulations to another.

In addition, the commissioners passed wildlife amendments that will:

In other business, commissioners approved:

Nebraska Hunter Education Coordinator Kyle Gaston presented the following Hunter Education awards:

To view regulations or orders as proposed, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.OutdoorNebraska.gov%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000199d02c10cd-50de8c35-e34c-4587-8a6f-8387e14396cf-000000/yho-Yx11k52xqXrOIjj7ZhdmjvThjJBKyztYU_H88Po=426" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and search for “regulations” or “orders.”

By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760330526881.png" alt="Nebraska Hunter Education Coordinator Kyle Gaston, second from right, presented Hunter Education awards Oct.10 at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission meeting at Niobrara State Park to, from left, Kenneth Gill of Bloomfield, Theresa Pronske of Uehling and Justin Grusing of Firth. (Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Hunter Education Coordinator Kyle Gaston, second from right, presented Hunter Education awards Oct.10 at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission meeting at Niobrara State Park to, from left, Kenneth Gill of Bloomfield, Theresa Pronske of Uehling and Justin Grusing of Firth. (Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved changes to sportfishing orders at its meeting Oct. 10 at Niobrara State Park. These orders regard daily bag limits, possession limits and open areas.The amendments to sportfishing orders are:<ul>
 <li>clarify that the two-fish daily trout limit at the Soldier Creek Wilderness Area may include only one fish 16 inches or longer;</li><li>add Marlin Petermann Recreation Area in Douglas County to the list of waters with a two-fish daily bag limit and 12-inch maximum length limit on smallmouth bass;</li><li>add Marlin Petermann Recreation Area to the list of waters with a daily bag limit of five yellow perch;</li><li>add Wolbach City Lake in Greeley County, Forest City Recreation Area in Sarpy County and Mad Bear Recreation Area in Sarpy County to the list of waters with a one-fish daily bag limit and 21-inch minimum length limit on black bass;</li><li>rescind the exceptions (one over 34 inches or longer, no minimum length, three-fish bag limit, three-fish possession limit) on muskellunge and tiger muskellunge at Pelican Lake in Cherry County; and</li><li>confirm legal paddlefish archery fishing hours of sunrise to sunset.</li>
 </ul>Commissioners also approved sportfishing regulation amendments that remove redundant language, reorganize paddlefish regulations for clarity, provide new definitions of terms, and add new water bodies and renovated water bodies to the list of waters where possession of live baitfish is unlawful.Commissioners approved wildlife regulation amendments that clarify rules for buying a preference or bonus point, allow the use of breech-loading muzzleloaders during the muzzleloader season, combine checking requirements for bobcat, gray fox and river otter and move language on incidentally caught otters from one chapter of regulations to another.In addition, the commissioners passed wildlife amendments that will:<ul>
 <li>change the date a youth must be 15 to be eligible for a youth deer permit and eliminate the requirement for participants in the Free-earned Landowner Elk Program to designate their earned permit for the following elk season from when they earn them;</li><li>specify which birds are defined as nuisance birds, clarify when a permit may be issued, and clarify which parts may not be bought, sold or bartered;</li><li>add a carriage to the list of vehicles not allowed on a wildlife management area, with exceptions; and</li><li>make some changes to area-specific regulations on the following wildlife management areas: Catfish Run, Enders, Gifford Point, Kea West, Medicine Creek, Oak Glen, Randall W. Schilling, Red Willow and Swanson.</li>
 </ul>In other business, commissioners approved:<ul>
 <li>fee increases for park lodging and rental facilities;</li><li>a lease agreement for 90 acres in Sioux County for the Bighorn Sheep Restoration Facility, contingent upon securing funding through grants and donations;</li><li>the 2026-2028 Focus on Education Plan “Education Strategy: Connecting Through Experience”;</li><li>the 2026-2030 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan to maintain eligibility for the Land and Water Conservation Fund Statewide Assistance Program through the National Park Service;</li><li>the Recreational Road Program’s 1-5 Year Plan; and</li><li>the 2026 Nebraska Game and Parks meeting schedule as follows: Jan. 22-23 in Lincoln, March 19-20 at Ponca State Park, April 16-17 at Chadron State Park, June 11-12 at North Platte, Aug. 13-14 at Fort Calhoun, and Oct.15-16 at Kearney.</li>
 </ul>Nebraska Hunter Education Coordinator Kyle Gaston presented the following Hunter Education awards:<ul>
 <li>Master Hunter Education Instructor of the Year Award to Justin Grusing of Firth. Grusing has been teaching Hunter Education for 15 years out of the Nebraska Shooters range, where he also trains news instructors. He worked with Nebraska Shooters to build lodging rooms so new instructors could attend training at no cost.&nbsp;</li><li>Estella Wolfe Hunter Education Instructor of the Year Award to Theresa Pronske of Uehling. Pronske, an instructor for 38 years, has brought many students back as Hunter Education instructors. She now boasts one of the largest Hunter Education Instructor groups in the state.</li><li>Dick Turpin Hunter Education Instructor of the Year Award to Kenneth Gill of Bloomfield. Gill has taught more than 1,000 students in his 48 years as a Hunter Education instructor. He also is active in 4-H shooting sports and facilitating mentor hunts in his community.</li><li>Master Hunter Education Instructors to Brenda Fulk of Mitchell, Ephraim (Josh) Gillming of Bushnell and Gary Bales of Staplehurst. Master Instructors go above and beyond teaching a Hunter Education class. They help identify, train and apprentice new Hunter Education instructors. They also assist the Hunter Education Program with mentor hunts, public shooting events and other events.</li>
 </ul>To view regulations or orders as proposed, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.OutdoorNebraska.gov%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000199d02c10cd-50de8c35-e34c-4587-8a6f-8387e14396cf-000000/yho-Yx11k52xqXrOIjj7ZhdmjvThjJBKyztYU_H88Po=426" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and search for “regulations” or “orders.”

Commissioners Approve Sportfishing Orders

ALLIANCE, Neb. - Parked between plastic bladders pulled from IBC totes and curbside bags waiting to be sorted I put “the old pickup” out to pasture. No longer fit to drive, the F250 diesel had served Keep Alliance Beautiful well for years. Perhaps someone needs a project or, at the least, spare parts to reuse a conveyance that carried many tons of recyclables during its life.

As a not-for-profit organization we squeeze every last mile out of our vehicles. Grants pay for the best we can find for the funding available though there is no way you’ll be seeing a brand new $55K 2026 pickup with the KAB logo driving through your neighborhood. What fits the bill is a workhorse. That means a 4x4, three-quarter ton pickup with a long box (eight-foot long bed) and crew cab (preferred) then, ideally, a lift gate and cage to corral cardboard.

When I started at KAB neither pickup fit the entire wishlist though both were stout Ford 250’s. The “old pickup” was a 2001 model I had seen many times before in its former stint as a mover of pop machines, etcetera, for Pepsi Cola. It was the primary cardboard collector with a cage to keep loose cargo in place as well as a lift gate to assist in changing out heavy totes behind businesses.

There was a ball on the bumper for trailers and despite upwards of 200,000 on the odometer nothing wrong with the radio. However the absence of four wheel drive made for interesting trips in the mud and snow. The “new” 2011 pickup was also an F250 though it drank gasoline. This Ford did not have a lift or cage yet did have four wheel drive. Both were crew cabs – a great feature to bring bags and contain recyclables more likely to fly out the back.

The newer pickup, as time went on, almost exclusively had the assignment of moving trailers. Initially, I avoided the invitation to drive. The newbie always rides shotgun, that’s how it works. Cole navigated the west end or the east end, as our then-boss G.O. would say. We packed the old truck and drove windows down, radio tuned to KCOW. It became my favorite. Months went by, routes memorized. Now my turn came to drive – a challenge having rarely been behind the wheel of something that size. A pint-size Toyota Tacoma was the one and only pickup in my history. It became obvious that the turning radius of these F250s would take some getting used to.

A few of the dents on both the white KAB pickups are mine. It pays to take your time, double-check blind spots and ask for assistance from the copilot. Beyond simply steering while applying the gas and brake there is cargo consideration. The old pickup inherently held more though that meant more to snatch from the streets and highways when not securing the load properly. A tarp and pallets came in handy when visiting Pat’s Creative and Hemingford while not overfilling the cage was the biggest factor around town.

My Achilles heel when leaving town would be to pack the cage to the gills and underestimate the power of the wind to pluck out a bag or box. Lonnie and I saw how this worked on one occasion north of Berea. Fortunately a Good Samaritan stopped to help pick up paper and plastic. Earlier this year the old pickup began to leak from its coolant reservoir, a symptom of a major problem. To fix the issue would have far exceeded the repair budget for a nearly 25-year-old vehicle. So, since it still ran, we continued to drive the pickup for the next few months. Then, with about 350,000 miles, this Ford seemed ready to check out. I reached to adjust the rearview one morning and the mirror came off in my hand. Little things like that. Last month, in anticipation, we had RPR move the liftgate and cage to the other pickup. Then, on October 3, a leaf spring broke and blew the back driver’s side tire. I called my dad to help.

He made it possible to put on the spare and limp back to the recycling center with a blown tire in the bed and cardboard held in with a temporary plywood tailgate. Whatever we find as a replacement will do the same job and may even have a hint of “new car scent”. Still, I will miss that turn of the century diesel.

By John Weare, Keep Alliance Beautiful<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760108184636.jpeg" alt="Keep Alliance Beautiful recently retired its 2001 F250, seen through the cage on the back of the organization's 2011 pickup." />
 <figcaption>Keep Alliance Beautiful recently retired its 2001 F250, seen through the cage on the back of the organization's 2011 pickup.</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. - Parked between plastic bladders pulled from IBC totes and curbside bags waiting to be sorted I put “the old pickup” out to pasture. No longer fit to drive, the F250 diesel had served Keep Alliance Beautiful well for years. Perhaps someone needs a project or, at the least, spare parts to reuse a conveyance that carried many tons of recyclables during its life.As a not-for-profit organization we squeeze every last mile out of our vehicles. Grants pay for the best we can find for the funding available though there is no way you’ll be seeing a brand new $55K 2026 pickup with the KAB logo driving through your neighborhood. What fits the bill is a workhorse. That means a 4x4, three-quarter ton pickup with a long box (eight-foot long bed) and crew cab (preferred) then, ideally, a lift gate and cage to corral cardboard.When I started at KAB neither pickup fit the entire wishlist though both were stout Ford 250’s. The “old pickup” was a 2001 model I had seen many times before in its former stint as a mover of pop machines, etcetera, for Pepsi Cola. It was the primary cardboard collector with a cage to keep loose cargo in place as well as a lift gate to assist in changing out heavy totes behind businesses.There was a ball on the bumper for trailers and despite upwards of 200,000 on the odometer nothing wrong with the radio. However the absence of four wheel drive made for interesting trips in the mud and snow. The “new” 2011 pickup was also an F250 though it drank gasoline. This Ford did not have a lift or cage yet did have four wheel drive. Both were crew cabs – a great feature to bring bags and contain recyclables more likely to fly out the back.The newer pickup, as time went on, almost exclusively had the assignment of moving trailers. Initially, I avoided the invitation to drive. The newbie always rides shotgun, that’s how it works. Cole navigated the west end or the east end, as our then-boss G.O. would say. We packed the old truck and drove windows down, radio tuned to KCOW. It became my favorite. Months went by, routes memorized. Now my turn came to drive – a challenge having rarely been behind the wheel of something that size. A pint-size Toyota Tacoma was the one and only pickup in my history. It became obvious that the turning radius of these F250s would take some getting used to.A few of the dents on both the white KAB pickups are mine. It pays to take your time, double-check blind spots and ask for assistance from the copilot. Beyond simply steering while applying the gas and brake there is cargo consideration. The old pickup inherently held more though that meant more to snatch from the streets and highways when not securing the load properly. A tarp and pallets came in handy when visiting Pat’s Creative and Hemingford while not overfilling the cage was the biggest factor around town.My Achilles heel when leaving town would be to pack the cage to the gills and underestimate the power of the wind to pluck out a bag or box. Lonnie and I saw how this worked on one occasion north of Berea. Fortunately a Good Samaritan stopped to help pick up paper and plastic. Earlier this year the old pickup began to leak from its coolant reservoir, a symptom of a major problem. To fix the issue would have far exceeded the repair budget for a nearly 25-year-old vehicle. So, since it still ran, we continued to drive the pickup for the next few months. Then, with about 350,000 miles, this Ford seemed ready to check out. I reached to adjust the rearview one morning and the mirror came off in my hand. Little things like that. Last month, in anticipation, we had RPR move the liftgate and cage to the other pickup. Then, on October 3, a leaf spring broke and blew the back driver’s side tire. I called my dad to help.He made it possible to put on the spare and limp back to the recycling center with a blown tire in the bed and cardboard held in with a temporary plywood tailgate. Whatever we find as a replacement will do the same job and may even have a hint of “new car scent”. Still, I will miss that turn of the century diesel.

COLUMN: The Old Pickup

United Way of Western Nebraska and our partners at Team Auto Center and Sandberg Honda will present the top two prizes from the Duck Draw on Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 10 a.m. at Team Auto Center in Scottsbluff. We look forward to presenting the winners with the Grand prize, a 2025 Chevrolet Trax, and the 2nd prize, Honda Pioneer side by side.&nbsp;

Please join us as we hand the keys over to our two lucky ducks (winners) of the 2025 United Way of Western Nebraska Duck Draw!

By United Way of Western Nebraska<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760126481659.png" alt="United Way of Western Nebraska" />
 <figcaption>United Way of Western Nebraska</figcaption>
 </figure>United Way of Western Nebraska and our partners at Team Auto Center and Sandberg Honda will present the top two prizes from the Duck Draw on Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 10 a.m. at Team Auto Center in Scottsbluff. We look forward to presenting the winners with the Grand prize, a 2025 Chevrolet Trax, and the 2nd prize, Honda Pioneer side by side.&nbsp;Please join us as we hand the keys over to our two lucky ducks (winners) of the 2025 United Way of Western Nebraska Duck Draw!

United Way Duck Draw Presentation Set for Oct. 15

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– On Tuesday, Oct. 14, Governor Jim Pillen will sign an executive order launching the&nbsp;Good Life, Great Careers Initiative. This initiative aims to establish clear pathways for Nebraskans – especially our youth – to access thriving and stable careers through apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs.

As part of the&nbsp;Good Life, Great Careers Initiative, the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) will set up the Office of Registered Apprenticeship, which will be integrated into NDOL and serve as the coordinating body for all matters related to registered apprenticeship programs within the state of Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Governor's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737061288463.jpeg" alt=" Gov. Jim Pillen talks with reporters after his annual State of the State speech to the Nebraska Legislature. Jan. 15, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Gov. Jim Pillen talks with reporters after his annual State of the State speech to the Nebraska Legislature. Jan. 15, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– On Tuesday, Oct. 14, Governor Jim Pillen will sign an executive order launching the&nbsp;Good Life, Great Careers Initiative. This initiative aims to establish clear pathways for Nebraskans – especially our youth – to access thriving and stable careers through apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs.As part of the&nbsp;Good Life, Great Careers Initiative, the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) will set up the Office of Registered Apprenticeship, which will be integrated into NDOL and serve as the coordinating body for all matters related to registered apprenticeship programs within the state of Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen To Launch Good Life, Great Careers Initiative, Sign Executive Order

The Oct. 18-19 statewide youth pheasant, quail and partridge season for hunters ages 15 and younger provides an excellent opportunity to mentor new hunters.

“The annual youth season provides a great opportunity for our young hunters to get out and hunt in a low-pressure environment,” said Bryan O’Connor, upland game program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. “This is an excellent chance for young hunters to gain experience and hone their skills.”

Resident youth (age 15 or younger) do not need a permit to hunt small game, but nonresident youth must have a small game hunting permit and habitat stamp. Only youth are allowed to hunt during the youth season, except at designated Special Youth Hunt locations, where accompanying adults also are allowed to hunt.

Game and Parks will release rooster pheasants at the following Special Youth Hunt locations/wildlife management areas (with county):

Arnold Trupp (Morrill), Arrowhead (Gage), Bordeaux (Dawes), Branched Oak (Lancaster), Cornhusker (Hall), George Syas (Nance), Hickory Ridge (Johnson), James N. Douglas (Johnson), Kirkpatrick Basin North (York), N-CORPE east tract (Lincoln), Wood Duck (Stanton), Peru Bottoms (Nemaha), Powder Creek (Dixon), Pressey (Custer), Rakes Creek (Cass), Randall W. Schilling (Cass), Sherman Reservoir (Sherman), Wilkinson (Platte), and Yankee Hill (Lancaster).

At Special Youth Hunt locations, the daily bag limit is two rooster pheasants for youth and one rooster pheasant for the accompanying adult. The accompanying adult must be a licensed hunter aged 19 or older and only one adult per youth will be allowed to hunt.

Non-toxic shot is required at Kirkpatrick Basin North, Peru Bottoms, Randall W. Schilling and Wilkinson wildlife management areas — all other hunting regulations also apply.

For more information about the youth season and a map of the pheasant release locations for youth, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Fhunt%2Fgame%2Fupland%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000199cf273929-ae9e1474-b784-42e1-b238-d8c713fbb682-000000/_YR426wAkuTiotPbYBdHQqgQZxcaFtSXCICFN1CxLFU=426" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>; search for “upland.”&nbsp; Hunters also may contact Game and Parks at 402-471-0641.

By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760126043416.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Oct. 18-19 statewide youth pheasant, quail and partridge season for hunters ages 15 and younger provides an excellent opportunity to mentor new hunters.“The annual youth season provides a great opportunity for our young hunters to get out and hunt in a low-pressure environment,” said Bryan O’Connor, upland game program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. “This is an excellent chance for young hunters to gain experience and hone their skills.”Resident youth (age 15 or younger) do not need a permit to hunt small game, but nonresident youth must have a small game hunting permit and habitat stamp. Only youth are allowed to hunt during the youth season, except at designated Special Youth Hunt locations, where accompanying adults also are allowed to hunt.Game and Parks will release rooster pheasants at the following Special Youth Hunt locations/wildlife management areas (with county):Arnold Trupp (Morrill), Arrowhead (Gage), Bordeaux (Dawes), Branched Oak (Lancaster), Cornhusker (Hall), George Syas (Nance), Hickory Ridge (Johnson), James N. Douglas (Johnson), Kirkpatrick Basin North (York), N-CORPE east tract (Lincoln), Wood Duck (Stanton), Peru Bottoms (Nemaha), Powder Creek (Dixon), Pressey (Custer), Rakes Creek (Cass), Randall W. Schilling (Cass), Sherman Reservoir (Sherman), Wilkinson (Platte), and Yankee Hill (Lancaster).At Special Youth Hunt locations, the daily bag limit is two rooster pheasants for youth and one rooster pheasant for the accompanying adult. The accompanying adult must be a licensed hunter aged 19 or older and only one adult per youth will be allowed to hunt.Non-toxic shot is required at Kirkpatrick Basin North, Peru Bottoms, Randall W. Schilling and Wilkinson wildlife management areas — all other hunting regulations also apply.For more information about the youth season and a map of the pheasant release locations for youth, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Fhunt%2Fgame%2Fupland%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000199cf273929-ae9e1474-b784-42e1-b238-d8c713fbb682-000000/_YR426wAkuTiotPbYBdHQqgQZxcaFtSXCICFN1CxLFU=426" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>; search for “upland.”&nbsp; Hunters also may contact Game and Parks at 402-471-0641.

Youth Pheasant Season Includes Special Youth Hunts

Post Podcast: Kman's Concert Calendar, weekend of Oct. 10 

By Holden Armstrong, NDVA Communications Director

YUTAN, Neb.&nbsp;— On September 26 and 27, hundreds of veterans, spouses, and surviving spouses passed through the Nebraska National Guard (NENG) Titan Readiness Center near Yutan to receive free dental care during Nebraska’s third Veterans Mission of Mercy (VETMOM) Dental Event. The free dental care provided is estimated to be worth more than $550,000.

“It’s hard to put into words how incredible this dental clinic is,” said Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly, who toured the site on September 26. “Every room is filled with patients and bustling with activity. There are hundreds of people volunteering their time, sacrificing their weekend, because this is such a worthy cause. Our veterans have served to protect us, and as Nebraskans we are here to repay them.”

Of Nebraska’s 115,000 veterans, only around 10% qualify for dental care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Access to dental care is one of the most requested needs reported to the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs (NDVA), which provided over $300,000 in emergency financial assistance related to dental care through the Nebraska Veterans Aid Fund in fiscal year 2025. The VETMOM seeks to bridge that gap and provide at least some of the dental care needed by Nebraska’s veterans.

“I want to commend everyone involved in the VETMOM, from the partners who helped plan and execute the clinic to the private businesses who volunteered time and materials to the sponsors who covered the cost,” said NDVA Director John Hilgert. “We know there’s a need. We know this is important. And we have an incredible group of Nebraskans who are stepping up to solve the issue. It really is like clockwork at this point, and I’m looking forward to many more years of providing this care.”

Over the course of the event, over 2,500 dental services—including cleanings, fillings, root canals, extractions, x-rays, and more—were provided in about 425 patient visits. More than one hundred dentures were provided, as well. Dentists on site took digital impressions and emailed them to Dental Designs, where technicians designed and 3D printed prosthetics for veterans. With a team of roughly 30 technicians, Dental Designs personnel were on site and back in the lab working around the clock to deliver partials and dentures for patients within 24 hours of their first visit.

“Accessing quality dental care services is a huge challenge for many veterans, especially for older people,” said State Dental Health Director Dr. Charles F. Craft. “Much of the dental care provided at the VETMOM event involved the need for dentures to replace missing teeth that are essential for proper eating. The ability to receive dentures quickly within a 48-hour period speaks to the dedication of our many professional volunteers and partner organizations who worked around the clock to give back to our Nebraska veterans.”

The two-day event was a partnership between NDVA, NENG, DHHS Office of Oral Health and Dentistry, Nebraska Dental Association, Nebraska Dental Hygienists’ Association, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, and Creighton University School of Dentistry. It was supported by hundreds of volunteers, including dentists, dental students, dental hygienists, dental hygiene students, and private dental practices. Numerous non-dental volunteers, including members of local American Legion and VFW posts, helped with setup, check-in, and other non-clinical tasks. Sponsors for the event included Hornaday, Dental Designs, Ameritas, Patterson Dental, Dexis Imaging, Google, and Farmers Mutual.

“It was an honor to take care of the dental needs for our veterans,” said Dr. James Jenkins, associate professor at the UNMC College of Dentistry who served as the VETMOM clinical director. “I hope they felt appreciated for their service to our nation to protect the freedoms we all enjoy. It was a true team effort, and all the volunteers worked very hard and did a great job. I know our volunteers were blessed by helping others, as were the patients we treated. It was great to see the new smiles on the faces of many of the veterans we served!”

Each year, NENG has allowed the use of the Titan Readiness Center to host the VETMOM. Not only has the space worked well for the event, but its location has helped ensure volunteers from the state’s two dental schools, located in Lincoln and Omaha, can participate. Its large gym served as the main work area and smaller rooms provided space for triage, radiology, patient recovery, and other clinical needs. Accredited veterans service officers from the state and county were available to assist veterans in learning about benefits, filing or checking claims, and more. Staff from the Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefits Administration, and Vet Center were on hand to offer additional resources to attendees. The “Remembering Our Fallen” memorial, a traveling exhibit that honors the Nebraskans who have been died during the Global War on Terrorism since 9/11, was on display.&nbsp;

A post-event survey was conducted to capture feedback from VETMOM attendees. Over 45% of survey respondents listed cost or lack of dental insurance as a barrier to receiving dental care. Over 20% of respondents said they traveled 100 miles or more to attend the clinic. Over 98% of respondents reported they were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their experience at VETMOM, with one commenting, “I thought it was an amazing event. Thank you to all the volunteers and industry professionals for making veterans like me healthier.”

Over the three VETMOMs hosted in Nebraska since 2023, 1,250 veterans, spouses, and surviving spouses have been treated for a total of over $1.6 million in dental care. Another VETMOM is tentatively planned for fall 2026. Those interested in receiving updates about the next dental event and other veteran events, benefits, and services can sign up to receive NDVA email updates at&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/newsletter" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov/newsletter</a>.

NDVA’s mission is to honor Nebraska veterans and their families by providing excellent service, assistance, and care. Its state service office helps veterans identify and access federal benefits, such as disability compensation and healthcare through the VA, and state benefits, such as Nebraska Veterans Aid funds, tuition waivers, and more. Its four state veterans’ homes offer high quality assisted living and skilled nursing care to veterans and eligible family members across the state. And its cemetery system ensures eligible veterans receive an honorable final resting place maintained to the highest national standards. To learn more about NDVA and how it serves Nebraska’s veterans and their families, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov</a>.

By Holden Armstrong, NDVA Communications Director<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760114405173.jpeg" alt="A patient at the 3rd annual Veterans Mission of Mercy Dental Event receives care from Navy and Air Force veterans. Several of the dentists, dental hygienists, and other volunteers at the event were veterans themselves." />
 <figcaption>A patient at the 3rd annual Veterans Mission of Mercy Dental Event receives care from Navy and Air Force veterans. Several of the dentists, dental hygienists, and other volunteers at the event were veterans themselves.</figcaption>
 </figure>YUTAN, Neb.&nbsp;— On September 26 and 27, hundreds of veterans, spouses, and surviving spouses passed through the Nebraska National Guard (NENG) Titan Readiness Center near Yutan to receive free dental care during Nebraska’s third Veterans Mission of Mercy (VETMOM) Dental Event. The free dental care provided is estimated to be worth more than $550,000.“It’s hard to put into words how incredible this dental clinic is,” said Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly, who toured the site on September 26. “Every room is filled with patients and bustling with activity. There are hundreds of people volunteering their time, sacrificing their weekend, because this is such a worthy cause. Our veterans have served to protect us, and as Nebraskans we are here to repay them.”Of Nebraska’s 115,000 veterans, only around 10% qualify for dental care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Access to dental care is one of the most requested needs reported to the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs (NDVA), which provided over $300,000 in emergency financial assistance related to dental care through the Nebraska Veterans Aid Fund in fiscal year 2025. The VETMOM seeks to bridge that gap and provide at least some of the dental care needed by Nebraska’s veterans.“I want to commend everyone involved in the VETMOM, from the partners who helped plan and execute the clinic to the private businesses who volunteered time and materials to the sponsors who covered the cost,” said NDVA Director John Hilgert. “We know there’s a need. We know this is important. And we have an incredible group of Nebraskans who are stepping up to solve the issue. It really is like clockwork at this point, and I’m looking forward to many more years of providing this care.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760114469399.jpeg" alt="courtesy NDVA" />
 <figcaption>courtesy NDVA</figcaption>
 </figure>Over the course of the event, over 2,500 dental services—including cleanings, fillings, root canals, extractions, x-rays, and more—were provided in about 425 patient visits. More than one hundred dentures were provided, as well. Dentists on site took digital impressions and emailed them to Dental Designs, where technicians designed and 3D printed prosthetics for veterans. With a team of roughly 30 technicians, Dental Designs personnel were on site and back in the lab working around the clock to deliver partials and dentures for patients within 24 hours of their first visit.“Accessing quality dental care services is a huge challenge for many veterans, especially for older people,” said State Dental Health Director Dr. Charles F. Craft. “Much of the dental care provided at the VETMOM event involved the need for dentures to replace missing teeth that are essential for proper eating. The ability to receive dentures quickly within a 48-hour period speaks to the dedication of our many professional volunteers and partner organizations who worked around the clock to give back to our Nebraska veterans.”The two-day event was a partnership between NDVA, NENG, DHHS Office of Oral Health and Dentistry, Nebraska Dental Association, Nebraska Dental Hygienists’ Association, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, and Creighton University School of Dentistry. It was supported by hundreds of volunteers, including dentists, dental students, dental hygienists, dental hygiene students, and private dental practices. Numerous non-dental volunteers, including members of local American Legion and VFW posts, helped with setup, check-in, and other non-clinical tasks. Sponsors for the event included Hornaday, Dental Designs, Ameritas, Patterson Dental, Dexis Imaging, Google, and Farmers Mutual.“It was an honor to take care of the dental needs for our veterans,” said Dr. James Jenkins, associate professor at the UNMC College of Dentistry who served as the VETMOM clinical director. “I hope they felt appreciated for their service to our nation to protect the freedoms we all enjoy. It was a true team effort, and all the volunteers worked very hard and did a great job. I know our volunteers were blessed by helping others, as were the patients we treated. It was great to see the new smiles on the faces of many of the veterans we served!”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760114507633.jpeg" alt="courtesy NDVA" />
 <figcaption>courtesy NDVA</figcaption>
 </figure>Each year, NENG has allowed the use of the Titan Readiness Center to host the VETMOM. Not only has the space worked well for the event, but its location has helped ensure volunteers from the state’s two dental schools, located in Lincoln and Omaha, can participate. Its large gym served as the main work area and smaller rooms provided space for triage, radiology, patient recovery, and other clinical needs. Accredited veterans service officers from the state and county were available to assist veterans in learning about benefits, filing or checking claims, and more. Staff from the Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefits Administration, and Vet Center were on hand to offer additional resources to attendees. The “Remembering Our Fallen” memorial, a traveling exhibit that honors the Nebraskans who have been died during the Global War on Terrorism since 9/11, was on display.&nbsp;A post-event survey was conducted to capture feedback from VETMOM attendees. Over 45% of survey respondents listed cost or lack of dental insurance as a barrier to receiving dental care. Over 20% of respondents said they traveled 100 miles or more to attend the clinic. Over 98% of respondents reported they were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their experience at VETMOM, with one commenting, “I thought it was an amazing event. Thank you to all the volunteers and industry professionals for making veterans like me healthier.”Over the three VETMOMs hosted in Nebraska since 2023, 1,250 veterans, spouses, and surviving spouses have been treated for a total of over $1.6 million in dental care. Another VETMOM is tentatively planned for fall 2026. Those interested in receiving updates about the next dental event and other veteran events, benefits, and services can sign up to receive NDVA email updates at&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/newsletter" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov/newsletter</a>.NDVA’s mission is to honor Nebraska veterans and their families by providing excellent service, assistance, and care. Its state service office helps veterans identify and access federal benefits, such as disability compensation and healthcare through the VA, and state benefits, such as Nebraska Veterans Aid funds, tuition waivers, and more. Its four state veterans’ homes offer high quality assisted living and skilled nursing care to veterans and eligible family members across the state. And its cemetery system ensures eligible veterans receive an honorable final resting place maintained to the highest national standards. To learn more about NDVA and how it serves Nebraska’s veterans and their families, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://veterans.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">veterans.nebraska.gov</a>.

Neb. Vets Mission of Mercy Dental Event Gives Free Dental Care to Veterans, Spouses

ALLIANCE, Neb. – Digital Detox Fridays at Alliance Public Library include Autumn Watercolor on Oct. 10 and Bulldog Art on Oct. 17. For preschool and over, these two events are 10-11 a.m. in the APL Community Room with all supplies provided.

Oct. 24 features Creating Graphic Novels with Mason Trumble, APL Technical Services Librarian from 2-4 p.m. for grades 6-12 in the Community Room. Explore techniques to create your own graphic novel, comic or manga with all supplies provided.

For any questions, please contact Mason Trumble, Technical Services Librarian, at (308) 763-8455.

By Alliance Public Library<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760114159994.png" alt="Digital Detox Fridays (October 2025)" />
 <figcaption>Digital Detox Fridays (October 2025)</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – Digital Detox Fridays at Alliance Public Library include Autumn Watercolor on Oct. 10 and Bulldog Art on Oct. 17. For preschool and over, these two events are 10-11 a.m. in the APL Community Room with all supplies provided.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760114186979.png" alt="Creating Graphic Novels (Alliance Public Library)" />
 <figcaption>Creating Graphic Novels (Alliance Public Library)</figcaption>
 </figure>Oct. 24 features Creating Graphic Novels with Mason Trumble, APL Technical Services Librarian from 2-4 p.m. for grades 6-12 in the Community Room. Explore techniques to create your own graphic novel, comic or manga with all supplies provided.For any questions, please contact Mason Trumble, Technical Services Librarian, at (308) 763-8455.

October Digital Detox Fridays and Creating Graphic Novels at Alliance Public Library

HASTINGS, Neb.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a person wanted out of Pennsylvania after a pursuit in central Nebraska.

At approximately 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, NSP received information that a man being sought by Pennsylvania law enforcement was believed to be traveling through Nebraska. The subject was believed to be traveling in a Mercedes SUV.

At approximately 9:40 p.m. a trooper located the vehicle and the subject at a gas station at the Alda interchange on Interstate 80, at mile marker 305. As the trooper attempted to make contact, the subject drove away, ripping the fuel hose away from the vehicle. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The driver fled southbound on Alda Road, with speeds above 120 miles per hour. After several miles, the driver drove into a corn field, stopped and fled on foot. Additional troopers, personnel and K9 units from other police and sheriff departments also responded to the area. Thermal drones were used to locate the suspect, who was taken into custody without further incident just after Midnight on Friday.

The suspect, Antonio Lindsay, 58-years-old, of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, was medically cleared and lodged in Adams County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, criminal mischief, obstruction, possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to obey a lawful order. Lindsay was wanted in Pennsylvania for aggravated assault and other charges.

NSP was assisted by the Hastings Police Department, Grand Island Police Department, Kearney Police Department, Colfax County Sheriff’s Office, Merrick County Sheriff’s Office and Adams County Sheriff’s Office.

By Nebraska State Patrol<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650584487950.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HASTINGS, Neb.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a person wanted out of Pennsylvania after a pursuit in central Nebraska.At approximately 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, NSP received information that a man being sought by Pennsylvania law enforcement was believed to be traveling through Nebraska. The subject was believed to be traveling in a Mercedes SUV.At approximately 9:40 p.m. a trooper located the vehicle and the subject at a gas station at the Alda interchange on Interstate 80, at mile marker 305. As the trooper attempted to make contact, the subject drove away, ripping the fuel hose away from the vehicle. The trooper initiated a pursuit.The driver fled southbound on Alda Road, with speeds above 120 miles per hour. After several miles, the driver drove into a corn field, stopped and fled on foot. Additional troopers, personnel and K9 units from other police and sheriff departments also responded to the area. Thermal drones were used to locate the suspect, who was taken into custody without further incident just after Midnight on Friday.The suspect, Antonio Lindsay, 58-years-old, of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, was medically cleared and lodged in Adams County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, criminal mischief, obstruction, possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to obey a lawful order. Lindsay was wanted in Pennsylvania for aggravated assault and other charges.NSP was assisted by the Hastings Police Department, Grand Island Police Department, Kearney Police Department, Colfax County Sheriff’s Office, Merrick County Sheriff’s Office and Adams County Sheriff’s Office.

Wanted Person Arrested After Pursuit in Central Nebraska

BEVERAGES OF THE DAMNED: It's A Mystery

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen is applauding the important action announced today by Attorney General Mike Hilgers — a lawsuit that aims to stop the closure of coal energy generation at Omaha Public Power District’s (OPPD) North Omaha Station. Filing this lawsuit comes at a pivotal time for preserving and expanding energy production – not only in Nebraska, but across the United States.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s foolish for any power district to turn away from the single most affordable means of energy production known to mankind,” said Gov. Pillen. “Nebraska is blessed to have readily available coal reserves in Wyoming and the railroad infrastructure to get it here.”

Gov. Pillen emphasized that energy security is key to national security.

“Foreign adversaries have sped up their own coal production, most notably China and Russia. It is unfathomable why we would take any action that would slow or stop our own expansion of coal-driven energy.”

Gov. Pillen has worked hard on multiple fronts to preserve, protect and expand coal infrastructure in the state, as a means of ensuring cost-efficient available energy to Nebraskans. He said the lawsuit filed on behalf of the state by AG Hilgers represents a tremendous step toward furthering those goals.

“Today’s coal production does not carry the same emission risks that it did in the past. The scrubbing technology that is used today is very efficient and very effective in removing pollutants. Science is on our side, allowing us to make coal energy into clean energy."

Additional information about the lawsuit can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/news/attorney-general-mike-hilgers-initiates-legal-action-against-oppd-proposed-changes" target="_blank">https://ago.nebraska.gov/news/attorney-general-mike-hilgers-initiates-legal-action-against-oppd-proposed-changes</a>

By Governor's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737046324329.jpeg" alt="ov. Jim Pillen is greeted by members of the Nebraska Legislature during his annual State of the State speech on Wednesday. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>ov. Jim Pillen is greeted by members of the Nebraska Legislature during his annual State of the State speech on Wednesday. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen is applauding the important action announced today by Attorney General Mike Hilgers — a lawsuit that aims to stop the closure of coal energy generation at Omaha Public Power District’s (OPPD) North Omaha Station. Filing this lawsuit comes at a pivotal time for preserving and expanding energy production – not only in Nebraska, but across the United States.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s foolish for any power district to turn away from the single most affordable means of energy production known to mankind,” said Gov. Pillen. “Nebraska is blessed to have readily available coal reserves in Wyoming and the railroad infrastructure to get it here.”Gov. Pillen emphasized that energy security is key to national security.“Foreign adversaries have sped up their own coal production, most notably China and Russia. It is unfathomable why we would take any action that would slow or stop our own expansion of coal-driven energy.”Gov. Pillen has worked hard on multiple fronts to preserve, protect and expand coal infrastructure in the state, as a means of ensuring cost-efficient available energy to Nebraskans. He said the lawsuit filed on behalf of the state by AG Hilgers represents a tremendous step toward furthering those goals.“Today’s coal production does not carry the same emission risks that it did in the past. The scrubbing technology that is used today is very efficient and very effective in removing pollutants. Science is on our side, allowing us to make coal energy into clean energy."Additional information about the lawsuit can be found at:&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/news/attorney-general-mike-hilgers-initiates-legal-action-against-oppd-proposed-changes" target="_blank">https://ago.nebraska.gov/news/attorney-general-mike-hilgers-initiates-legal-action-against-oppd-proposed-changes</a>

Gov. Pillen Applauds Lawsuit To End Coal Energy Generation at OPPD Station

OGALLALA, Neb. — The Ogallala Livestock Auction shattered records Thursday during its Special Stocker &amp; Feeder Sale, setting 37 new barn records — including two national all-time highs.

The Oct. 9 sale featured standout performances across multiple weight divisions, highlighted by 3-, 4-, 6-, and 7-weight steers reaching unprecedented prices.

In the 4-weight division, 17 head averaging 406 pounds sold for $595 per hundredweight, and 144 head at 430 pounds brought $587. Both sales now rank among the top 10 all-time nationally, while accounting for nine of the 10 highest 4-weight sales in Ogallala barn history.

The market remained strong across middle-weight classes, with new records set for every 5- and 6-weight sale. A new barn record was also established in the 7-weight category, where 60 head averaging 778 pounds sold for $412.50.

The 8-weight division followed suit, as 58 head at 864 pounds brought $382, marking the second-highest price for that class in barn history.

In lighter weights, the barn surpassed the $600 mark for the first time, with 47 head at 368 pounds selling for $615 and 22 head at 397 pounds for $605 — the two highest 3-weight prices ever recorded at Ogallala.

It was a record-setting day from start to finish, reinforcing Ogallala Livestock Auction’s position among the top-performing sale barns in the nation.

NATIONAL BEEF WIREOGALLALA, Neb. — The Ogallala Livestock Auction shattered records Thursday during its Special Stocker &amp; Feeder Sale, setting 37 new barn records — including two national all-time highs.The Oct. 9 sale featured standout performances across multiple weight divisions, highlighted by 3-, 4-, 6-, and 7-weight steers reaching unprecedented prices.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNationalBeefWireDVAuction%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02UvaLfWmhAJdgTRNBAF4e3TwFR6aQBNoqkFen5wuZp615Xt7zxkA77hWLyqRaNWEGl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="521" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>In the 4-weight division, 17 head averaging 406 pounds sold for $595 per hundredweight, and 144 head at 430 pounds brought $587. Both sales now rank among the top 10 all-time nationally, while accounting for nine of the 10 highest 4-weight sales in Ogallala barn history.The market remained strong across middle-weight classes, with new records set for every 5- and 6-weight sale. A new barn record was also established in the 7-weight category, where 60 head averaging 778 pounds sold for $412.50.The 8-weight division followed suit, as 58 head at 864 pounds brought $382, marking the second-highest price for that class in barn history.In lighter weights, the barn surpassed the $600 mark for the first time, with 47 head at 368 pounds selling for $615 and 22 head at 397 pounds for $605 — the two highest 3-weight prices ever recorded at Ogallala.It was a record-setting day from start to finish, reinforcing Ogallala Livestock Auction’s position among the top-performing sale barns in the nation.

Ogallala Livestock Auction Shatters 37 Barn Records, Sets Two National Highs

All are invited to attend the 30th Annual Governor’s Lecture in the Humanities at 7:30 p.m. CT on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025. “Indigenous Storytelling in Film and Television” will feature “Dark Winds” star/executive producer Zahn McClarnon in conversation with film producer Bird Runningwater. Presented by Humanities Nebraska (HN), the event is free and open to the public at the Holland Performing Arts Center in Omaha. The program will also be livestreamed at the Midwest Theater in Scottsbluff, and it can be watched online from anywhere. (Pre-registration is required. Visit <a href="http://humanitiesnebraska.org">humanitiesnebraska.org</a> for details.)

Zahn McClarnon is an award-winning film and television actor who has appeared in over 90 film and television productions including the critically acclaimed series “Fargo,” the award-winning series “Westworld,” and many others. A member of the Hunkpapa Lakota Tribe, McClarnon is an executive producer and lead actor in the AMC television series “Dark Winds,” and will make his directorial debut during the upcoming fourth season. “Dark Winds” is based on the Hillerman “Leaphorn &amp; Chee” novel series, following two Navajo police officers in the 1970s Southwest investigating a string of seemingly unrelated crimes. McClarnon is also a graduate of Omaha Central High School.

A member of the Cheyenne and Mescalero Apache Tribal Nations, Bird Runningwater has had an illustrious producing career that includes Fancy Dance starring Lily Gladstone. Runningwater previously led the Sundance Institute’s commitment to indigenous filmmakers for 20 years. He is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and serves on the U.S. Library of Congress’ National Film Preservation Board. He also built and managed the private philanthropy of a Rockefeller family member focused on revitalizing indigenous languages in North America.

Co-chaired by Carol Wang and Beth Whited, this year’s Governor’s Lecture in the Humanities is the 30th consecutive year that Humanities Nebraska has brought an outstanding&nbsp; national speaker to Nebraska to give a free public talk on topics related to the humanities. Special partners for this year’s event are the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs, Nebraska Public Media and Vision Maker Media.

Prior to the free public conversation, the 2025 Sower Award in the Humanities will be presented to Omaha resident Mary C. López, honoring her significant contribution to the public understanding of the humanities in Nebraska. A benefit dinner that proceeds this event is sold out.

For the most current details about Zahn McClarnon’s free public conversation with Bird Runningwater, please visit the HN website at <a href="http://www.HumanitiesNebraska.org">www.HumanitiesNebraska.org</a>.

Humanities Nebraska is a private nonprofit with a mission to help people explore what connects us and makes us human. HN is funded in part by an appropriation from the Nebraska Legislature, private donations, and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, a public-private partnership with state dollars matching private dollars to benefit the arts and humanities in Nebraska.

By Humanities Nebraska<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760047255613.jpeg" alt="Photo credit: Mark Nicholas" />
 <figcaption>Photo credit: Mark Nicholas</figcaption>
 </figure>All are invited to attend the 30th Annual Governor’s Lecture in the Humanities at 7:30 p.m. CT on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025. “Indigenous Storytelling in Film and Television” will feature “Dark Winds” star/executive producer Zahn McClarnon in conversation with film producer Bird Runningwater. Presented by Humanities Nebraska (HN), the event is free and open to the public at the Holland Performing Arts Center in Omaha. The program will also be livestreamed at the Midwest Theater in Scottsbluff, and it can be watched online from anywhere. (Pre-registration is required. Visit <a href="http://humanitiesnebraska.org">humanitiesnebraska.org</a> for details.)Zahn McClarnon is an award-winning film and television actor who has appeared in over 90 film and television productions including the critically acclaimed series “Fargo,” the award-winning series “Westworld,” and many others. A member of the Hunkpapa Lakota Tribe, McClarnon is an executive producer and lead actor in the AMC television series “Dark Winds,” and will make his directorial debut during the upcoming fourth season. “Dark Winds” is based on the Hillerman “Leaphorn &amp; Chee” novel series, following two Navajo police officers in the 1970s Southwest investigating a string of seemingly unrelated crimes. McClarnon is also a graduate of Omaha Central High School.A member of the Cheyenne and Mescalero Apache Tribal Nations, Bird Runningwater has had an illustrious producing career that includes Fancy Dance starring Lily Gladstone. Runningwater previously led the Sundance Institute’s commitment to indigenous filmmakers for 20 years. He is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and serves on the U.S. Library of Congress’ National Film Preservation Board. He also built and managed the private philanthropy of a Rockefeller family member focused on revitalizing indigenous languages in North America.Co-chaired by Carol Wang and Beth Whited, this year’s Governor’s Lecture in the Humanities is the 30th consecutive year that Humanities Nebraska has brought an outstanding&nbsp; national speaker to Nebraska to give a free public talk on topics related to the humanities. Special partners for this year’s event are the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs, Nebraska Public Media and Vision Maker Media.Prior to the free public conversation, the 2025 Sower Award in the Humanities will be presented to Omaha resident Mary C. López, honoring her significant contribution to the public understanding of the humanities in Nebraska. A benefit dinner that proceeds this event is sold out.For the most current details about Zahn McClarnon’s free public conversation with Bird Runningwater, please visit the HN website at <a href="http://www.HumanitiesNebraska.org">www.HumanitiesNebraska.org</a>.Humanities Nebraska is a private nonprofit with a mission to help people explore what connects us and makes us human. HN is funded in part by an appropriation from the Nebraska Legislature, private donations, and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, a public-private partnership with state dollars matching private dollars to benefit the arts and humanities in Nebraska.

Zahn McClarnon to Speak About Indigenous Storytelling at Free Event on Oct. 21

Alliance Public Schools Board of Ed Meeting Plan - 10/13/25

COLUMBUS, Neb.&nbsp;– Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants to remind equipment and drone operators to keep powerline safety a key focus when working around power lines.

When large equipment comes too close to a power line, electricity can arc to the equipment, leading to serious or potentially fatal injuries to the operator.

“Being safe out in the field starts with checking your surroundings and becoming aware of power lines in your area,” said NPPD VP of Energy Delivery Scott Walz. “We take safety very seriously, and we want to encourage everyone working around power lines to be aware of their surroundings, so they can complete their work safely as well.”

If a piece of equipment comes in contact with a power line, call 911 or your local power provider, and remain inside the vehicle until help has arrived, to de-energize the line. If a fire forces you to exit the vehicle, jump away from the vehicle, never touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Land on two feet and shuffle as far away from the area as possible.

“Drone use is growing in both ag and non-ag areas of work, and we want to encourage these operators to also be careful when operating around power lines,” added Walz. “When a drone gets into a power line it can cause extensive damage to the drone and the power lines, which can cause outages to local customers and be expensive to repair.”

NPPD encourages agricultural operators to review the following safety precautions before working around power lines. More information on farm safety can also be found on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety" target="_blank">NPPD.com</a>.

By Nebraska Public Power District<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760044425851.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBUS, Neb.&nbsp;– Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants to remind equipment and drone operators to keep powerline safety a key focus when working around power lines.When large equipment comes too close to a power line, electricity can arc to the equipment, leading to serious or potentially fatal injuries to the operator.“Being safe out in the field starts with checking your surroundings and becoming aware of power lines in your area,” said NPPD VP of Energy Delivery Scott Walz. “We take safety very seriously, and we want to encourage everyone working around power lines to be aware of their surroundings, so they can complete their work safely as well.”If a piece of equipment comes in contact with a power line, call 911 or your local power provider, and remain inside the vehicle until help has arrived, to de-energize the line. If a fire forces you to exit the vehicle, jump away from the vehicle, never touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Land on two feet and shuffle as far away from the area as possible.“Drone use is growing in both ag and non-ag areas of work, and we want to encourage these operators to also be careful when operating around power lines,” added Walz. “When a drone gets into a power line it can cause extensive damage to the drone and the power lines, which can cause outages to local customers and be expensive to repair.”NPPD encourages agricultural operators to review the following safety precautions before working around power lines. More information on farm safety can also be found on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety" target="_blank">NPPD.com</a>.<ul>
 <li>Review all farm activities and work practices that will take place around power lines and remind all workers to take precautions.</li><li>Be aware of the location of power lines when setting up farm equipment and maintain a distance of at least 20 feet from them. Contact your local public power provider if this distance cannot be achieved.</li><li>Use caution when raising augers or the bed of a grain truck or wagon. It can be difficult to estimate distance, and sometimes a power line is closer than it looks. For large equipment, use a spotter to ensure the equipment stays a safe distance from the line.</li><li>Always adjust portable augers or elevators to their lowest possible level – under 14 feet – before transporting them. Variables like wind, uneven ground, or shifting weight can cause unexpected results.</li>
 </ul>

Power Line Safety Important Out in the Field

BBDC Sets Perfect Blend October Event for Oct. 14 at Eagle Radio

Humanities Nebraska (HN) has announced that the deadline for nominations to its Council board will be October 17. The public is invited to nominate Nebraskans who are committed to the importance of the humanities in helping all people explore what connects us and makes us human.

Board members are selected statewide from those who show a passion for the humanities and the cultural life of Nebraska. HN makes every effort to find community members who reflect the geographic, occupational and ethnic diversity of Nebraska. The nominations committee also seeks those who have balance between involvement in the humanities and other professional, business or community pursuits.

Council member responsibilities include: attending three board meetings in person a year, serving on committees that meet by video conference, assisting staff with review of grant requests and program evaluation, making an annual financial contribution to HN of any amount, promoting public awareness of HN and its objectives, and attending and evaluating programs funded by Humanities Nebraska. Self-nominations are accepted when submitted with a personal reference.

Nominations for the Council board must be postmarked, emailed or submitted online by October 17. Find nomination forms and a complete list of basic board responsibilities on the HN website at <a href="http://humanitiesnebraska.org">humanitiesnebraska.org</a>.

Humanities Nebraska is a private nonprofit with a mission to help people explore what connects us and makes us human. HN is funded in part by an appropriation from the Nebraska Legislature, private donations and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, a public-private partnership with state dollars matching private dollars to benefit the arts and humanities in Nebraska.

By Humanities Nebraska<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760041538567.jpeg" alt="Humanities Nebraska" />
 <figcaption>Humanities Nebraska</figcaption>
 </figure>Humanities Nebraska (HN) has announced that the deadline for nominations to its Council board will be October 17. The public is invited to nominate Nebraskans who are committed to the importance of the humanities in helping all people explore what connects us and makes us human.Board members are selected statewide from those who show a passion for the humanities and the cultural life of Nebraska. HN makes every effort to find community members who reflect the geographic, occupational and ethnic diversity of Nebraska. The nominations committee also seeks those who have balance between involvement in the humanities and other professional, business or community pursuits.Council member responsibilities include: attending three board meetings in person a year, serving on committees that meet by video conference, assisting staff with review of grant requests and program evaluation, making an annual financial contribution to HN of any amount, promoting public awareness of HN and its objectives, and attending and evaluating programs funded by Humanities Nebraska. Self-nominations are accepted when submitted with a personal reference.Nominations for the Council board must be postmarked, emailed or submitted online by October 17. Find nomination forms and a complete list of basic board responsibilities on the HN website at <a href="http://humanitiesnebraska.org">humanitiesnebraska.org</a>.Humanities Nebraska is a private nonprofit with a mission to help people explore what connects us and makes us human. HN is funded in part by an appropriation from the Nebraska Legislature, private donations and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, a public-private partnership with state dollars matching private dollars to benefit the arts and humanities in Nebraska.

Nominations for Humanities Nebraska Board Due October 17

Connecting Young Nebraskans (CYN) announced the 2025 Young Nebraskan awardees during its Sept. 26 biennial summit, attended by about 120 young Nebraskans in Seward at the Seward Civic Center.

Prior to the Summit, CYN invited nominations of exemplary young professionals who are making a positive impact in their workplaces and communities. Awards were presented in five categories to ambitious young Nebraskans across the state.

The Young Professional of the Year Award went to&nbsp;Anita Foor of Seward. Foor has worn many hats throughout her career, but took a big leap in 2022, investing in Nebraska and her community of Seward, by starting her own business, Development412. Foor helps leaders communicate clearly with themselves to yield self-competence, self-confidence and clear and confident communication with others. She recently designed and is facilitating a monthly empowerment series for women business owners in the Seward area. Foor's entrepreneurial spirit, vision and focus led to a successful, growing business venture that serves her community, state and country with her talents and strengths as a coach, consultant and communicator. Foor is active in her church community, serving as education board chair, which oversees the school and child development center. She recently finished her term as president of the Seward Rotary club, where she initiated a signature project to commemorate the club’s 100th&nbsp;anniversary.

An honorable mention for this award went to&nbsp;Mynesha Spencer of Papillion.

Taylor Wills of Sidney&nbsp;received the Community Involvement &amp; Impact Award for significant contributions to her community through civic engagement and involvement with charitable organizations. Wills serves as committee chair for several cornerstone community events including Potter Car Bowl, Christmas on Chestnut and Potter Days. She also founded the First Annual Marcus Hartzler Three-on-Three Basketball Tournament not only to bring people together for a day of fun and competition, but to honor the memory of a dear friend. She was also instrumental in bringing the Alan Hartzler Memorial Court to fruition where the tournament is hosted. Wills serves president of the Potter Dix Booster Club, treasurer of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and is a member of the Cheyenne County Extension Board.

Honorable mentions for this award went to&nbsp;Channing Reha of Pender&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sarah Sinnett of Sidney.

Ashley Caballero Lazaro of Neligh&nbsp;received the Diversity &amp; Inclusion Award for her dedication to creating a welcoming environment and fostering a sense of belonging for all people, especially for those of diverse cultures, backgrounds, identities and experiences. At only 14 years old, Caballero Lazaro recognized the need for inclusive swings and playground equipment so that children of all abilities, including her brother with special needs, could play side by side. Her Double-A Project has raised more than $50,000 to date. In addition, Caballero Lazaro served as vice president for her local Future Farmers of America chapter, was involved in athletics and was named valedictorian of her graduating class. Caballero Lazaro’s story is still unfolding, but her impact is already undeniable.

The Entrepreneurship &amp; Innovation Award, which aims to recognize innovators who have contributed significantly towards the development of a new business or idea, went to&nbsp;Katelynn Broders of Wayne.&nbsp;As the owner of I Wet my Plants, Broders portrays innovation and creativity by not only growing her own business but also using it as a platform to educate the next generation. She invites local high school students into her shop to gain real-world, hands-on learning experiences and provides valuable mentorship and teaching in both technical skills and professional work habits that prepare students for future careers. Broders serves as a committee member for Wayne Elementary Boosters, Wayne America Special Events Committee and several other organizations.

An honorable mention for this award went to&nbsp;Trevon Newmann&nbsp;of&nbsp;Sidney

The Leadership &amp; Professional Development Award which recognizes an individual who has made a significant impact on their peers in the workplace went to&nbsp;Regen Lux of Kearney. As Marketing Director at Grand Island Casino Resort, Lux has played a pivotal role in establishing the resort’s presence in Nebraska while cultivating a culture of professional growth within her team. She has designed and led successful marketing campaigns that elevated the Grand Island Casino Resort brand across Nebraska and beyond. She also invests in her staff’s professional development, ensuring her team members receive mentoring, coaching, and opportunities to advance in their careers. Lux serves on the board for the Young Professionals Network in both Kearney and Grand Island on the fund advisory committee for Connecting Young Nebraskans. She frequently shares her marketing expertise to support nonprofits and civic groups with promotional strategies and event visibility.

An honorable mention for this award went to&nbsp;Jenn Gjerde of Lincoln.

By Connecting Young Nebraskans<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760029969914.jpeg" alt="(back row from left to right) Trevon Newmann, Jenn Gjerde, Taylor Wills, Regen Lux (front row from left to right) Anita Foor, Katelynn Broders, Ashley Caballero Lazaro, Sarah Sinnett. Not pictured: Mynesha Spencer, Channing Reha CREDIT: Kira Geiger, Nebraska Community Foundation" />
 <figcaption>(back row from left to right) Trevon Newmann, Jenn Gjerde, Taylor Wills, Regen Lux (front row from left to right) Anita Foor, Katelynn Broders, Ashley Caballero Lazaro, Sarah Sinnett. Not pictured: Mynesha Spencer, Channing Reha CREDIT: Kira Geiger, Nebraska Community Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>Connecting Young Nebraskans (CYN) announced the 2025 Young Nebraskan awardees during its Sept. 26 biennial summit, attended by about 120 young Nebraskans in Seward at the Seward Civic Center.Prior to the Summit, CYN invited nominations of exemplary young professionals who are making a positive impact in their workplaces and communities. Awards were presented in five categories to ambitious young Nebraskans across the state.The Young Professional of the Year Award went to&nbsp;Anita Foor of Seward. Foor has worn many hats throughout her career, but took a big leap in 2022, investing in Nebraska and her community of Seward, by starting her own business, Development412. Foor helps leaders communicate clearly with themselves to yield self-competence, self-confidence and clear and confident communication with others. She recently designed and is facilitating a monthly empowerment series for women business owners in the Seward area. Foor's entrepreneurial spirit, vision and focus led to a successful, growing business venture that serves her community, state and country with her talents and strengths as a coach, consultant and communicator. Foor is active in her church community, serving as education board chair, which oversees the school and child development center. She recently finished her term as president of the Seward Rotary club, where she initiated a signature project to commemorate the club’s 100th&nbsp;anniversary.An honorable mention for this award went to&nbsp;Mynesha Spencer of Papillion.Taylor Wills of Sidney&nbsp;received the Community Involvement &amp; Impact Award for significant contributions to her community through civic engagement and involvement with charitable organizations. Wills serves as committee chair for several cornerstone community events including Potter Car Bowl, Christmas on Chestnut and Potter Days. She also founded the First Annual Marcus Hartzler Three-on-Three Basketball Tournament not only to bring people together for a day of fun and competition, but to honor the memory of a dear friend. She was also instrumental in bringing the Alan Hartzler Memorial Court to fruition where the tournament is hosted. Wills serves president of the Potter Dix Booster Club, treasurer of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and is a member of the Cheyenne County Extension Board.Honorable mentions for this award went to&nbsp;Channing Reha of Pender&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sarah Sinnett of Sidney.Ashley Caballero Lazaro of Neligh&nbsp;received the Diversity &amp; Inclusion Award for her dedication to creating a welcoming environment and fostering a sense of belonging for all people, especially for those of diverse cultures, backgrounds, identities and experiences. At only 14 years old, Caballero Lazaro recognized the need for inclusive swings and playground equipment so that children of all abilities, including her brother with special needs, could play side by side. Her Double-A Project has raised more than $50,000 to date. In addition, Caballero Lazaro served as vice president for her local Future Farmers of America chapter, was involved in athletics and was named valedictorian of her graduating class. Caballero Lazaro’s story is still unfolding, but her impact is already undeniable.The Entrepreneurship &amp; Innovation Award, which aims to recognize innovators who have contributed significantly towards the development of a new business or idea, went to&nbsp;Katelynn Broders of Wayne.&nbsp;As the owner of I Wet my Plants, Broders portrays innovation and creativity by not only growing her own business but also using it as a platform to educate the next generation. She invites local high school students into her shop to gain real-world, hands-on learning experiences and provides valuable mentorship and teaching in both technical skills and professional work habits that prepare students for future careers. Broders serves as a committee member for Wayne Elementary Boosters, Wayne America Special Events Committee and several other organizations.An honorable mention for this award went to&nbsp;Trevon Newmann&nbsp;of&nbsp;SidneyThe Leadership &amp; Professional Development Award which recognizes an individual who has made a significant impact on their peers in the workplace went to&nbsp;Regen Lux of Kearney. As Marketing Director at Grand Island Casino Resort, Lux has played a pivotal role in establishing the resort’s presence in Nebraska while cultivating a culture of professional growth within her team. She has designed and led successful marketing campaigns that elevated the Grand Island Casino Resort brand across Nebraska and beyond. She also invests in her staff’s professional development, ensuring her team members receive mentoring, coaching, and opportunities to advance in their careers. Lux serves on the board for the Young Professionals Network in both Kearney and Grand Island on the fund advisory committee for Connecting Young Nebraskans. She frequently shares her marketing expertise to support nonprofits and civic groups with promotional strategies and event visibility.An honorable mention for this award went to&nbsp;Jenn Gjerde of Lincoln.

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