In an effort to protect patients, visitors and staff, Box Butte Genera Hospital (BBGH) has revised our visitor policy.

In accordance with CDC guidelines for healthcare settings, filtering, paper masks covering the nose and mouth are still required at BBGH for all staff, patients, visitors and guests. Cloth masks, gators, bandanas, etc. are not permitted.

All visitors over 3 years old must wear a mask at all times when inside the hospital, clinics, MAPS building, 2307 and 212 suites. Visitors including minors must be screened for a fever and symptoms of COVID-19 regardless of vaccination status. When visitors have a temperature over 100 or symptoms consistent with COVID-19 they should leave immediately and may not visit or accompany patients to appointments.

The Patient and ONE designated, adult support person will be allowed in the Emergency Room

Pediatric and young adult patients age 0-21 may be accompanied by two adults

Infants six months and younger in baby seats may accompany their parent or adult caregiver

End of life patients, transferring patients and special circumstances as approved by the patient’s care team

Inpatient Unit (PCU) COVID 19 patients:

COVID-19 patients may have up to two, designated adult visitors

Visitors must wear N-95 or KN-95 masks at all times when inside the hospital

Visitors will maintain a distance of a least 6 feet from the patient

Special Circumstances as approved by the patient’s care team

Visitation for COVID patients will be re-evaluated based on the community’s COVID risk level and the number of patients hospitalized with COVID at any given time

Patients on PCU may have adult visitors without restriction

End of life patients, transferring patients, and special circumstances as approved by the patient’s care team

Known or Suspected COVID-19 Obstetrics Labor and Delivery

One asymptomatic support person may stay with patient during labor and delivery

Support persons must remain in patient room at all times and wear PPE consisting of respirator mask, face shield, gown and gloves

One designated, fully vaccinated adult visitor is permitted. Virtual visits are encouraged

Newborns who are not rooming in with mother may have one fully vaccinated visitor to assist with care during mother’s isolation period. Non-household support person is preferred.

Non-COVID-19 Obstetrics Labor and Delivery

Newborn may have one adult visitor in addition to mother

Adult visitors and siblings without restriction

Two adult support persons may accompany the patient.

If admitted to the hospital following surgery see PCU visitation

Infants six months and younger in baby seats may accompany their parent or caregiver to the surgery area.

Children must be over 14 years old to visit on PCU.

Radiology, Rehabilitation Services, Specialty Clinics, GNMSS Clinics

Adults may accompany the patient to their appointment without restriction

Up to two children and one additional infant six months old or younger in a baby seat may accompany parent or caregiver to appointments if other arrangements cannot be made and they do not interfere with patient care.

Children may not stay in waiting rooms unattended

Adults and children may visit employees and staff during work hours as appropriate. Visits should be conducted outdoors or in non-patient care areas. All staff and their visitors age 3 and over must wear a mask when visiting indoors. The health and safety of our patients, staff and visitors is a top priority at Box Butte General Hospital. We understand how important the support of loved ones and friends is to patients during their hospital stay. However, COVID-19 requires us to temporarily adjust our visiting policy in order to keep our patients, staff and visitors safe from infection. We continue to implement vigorous policies and procedures to address COVID-19 and are following all governmental recommendations as well. If you have any questions about the updated visiting policy, please ask a member of the patient’s healthcare team. Thank you for your understanding and for adhering to these policies to help us keep our patients, families, staff and visitors protected and healthy during this time.

Visitors will resume entering through the main entrance doors and will no longer be required to enter through ER.

Main entrance doors will be locked from 6:00 pm – 6:00 am. Monday through Friday and remain locked Saturday, Sunday and holidays. When the main entrance doors are locked PCU staff will direct visitors to complete the screening on the Kiosk before unlocking the door. Assistance from staff with the Kiosk may be necessary.

By Box Butte General HospitalIn an effort to protect patients, visitors and staff, Box Butte Genera Hospital (BBGH) has revised our visitor policy.In accordance with CDC guidelines for healthcare settings, filtering, paper masks covering the nose and mouth are still required at BBGH for all staff, patients, visitors and guests. Cloth masks, gators, bandanas, etc. are not permitted.All visitors over 3 years old must wear a mask at all times when inside the hospital, clinics, MAPS building, 2307 and 212 suites. Visitors including minors must be screened for a fever and symptoms of COVID-19 regardless of vaccination status. When visitors have a temperature over 100 or symptoms consistent with COVID-19 they should leave immediately and may not visit or accompany patients to appointments.Emergency Room:The Patient and ONE designated, adult support person will be allowed in the Emergency RoomPediatric and young adult patients age 0-21 may be accompanied by two adultsInfants six months and younger in baby seats may accompany their parent or adult caregiverEnd of life patients, transferring patients and special circumstances as approved by the patient’s care teamInpatient Unit (PCU) COVID 19 patients:COVID-19 patients may have up to two, designated adult visitorsVisitors must wear N-95 or KN-95 masks at all times when inside the hospitalVisitors will maintain a distance of a least 6 feet from the patientSpecial Circumstances as approved by the patient’s care teamVisitation for COVID patients will be re-evaluated based on the community’s COVID risk level and the number of patients hospitalized with COVID at any given timeNon-Covid-19 PCU Patients:Patients on PCU may have adult visitors without restrictionYouth over age 14 may visitEnd of life patients, transferring patients, and special circumstances as approved by the patient’s care teamOB:Known or Suspected COVID-19 Obstetrics Labor and DeliveryOne asymptomatic support person may stay with patient during labor and deliverySupport persons must remain in patient room at all times and wear PPE consisting of respirator mask, face shield, gown and glovesPost-partum:One designated, fully vaccinated adult visitor is permitted. Virtual visits are encouragedNewborns who are not rooming in with mother may have one fully vaccinated visitor to assist with care during mother’s isolation period. Non-household support person is preferred.Non-COVID-19 Obstetrics Labor and DeliveryAdult visitors without restrictionChildren of the patient may visitPost-PartumAdult visitors without restrictionChildren of the patient may visitNewborn may have one adult visitor in addition to motherAdult visitors and siblings without restrictionOutpatient Services:SurgeryTwo adult support persons may accompany the patient.If admitted to the hospital following surgery see PCU visitationInfants six months and younger in baby seats may accompany their parent or caregiver to the surgery area.Children must be over 14 years old to visit on PCU.Radiology, Rehabilitation Services, Specialty Clinics, GNMSS ClinicsAdults may accompany the patient to their appointment without restrictionUp to two children and one additional infant six months old or younger in a baby seat may accompany parent or caregiver to appointments if other arrangements cannot be made and they do not interfere with patient care.Children may not stay in waiting rooms unattendedEmployees and Staff:Adults and children may visit employees and staff during work hours as appropriate. Visits should be conducted outdoors or in non-patient care areas. All staff and their visitors age 3 and over must wear a mask when visiting indoors. The health and safety of our patients, staff and visitors is a top priority at Box Butte General Hospital. We understand how important the support of loved ones and friends is to patients during their hospital stay. However, COVID-19 requires us to temporarily adjust our visiting policy in order to keep our patients, staff and visitors safe from infection. We continue to implement vigorous policies and procedures to address COVID-19 and are following all governmental recommendations as well. If you have any questions about the updated visiting policy, please ask a member of the patient’s healthcare team. Thank you for your understanding and for adhering to these policies to help us keep our patients, families, staff and visitors protected and healthy during this time.Additional Notes:Visitors will resume entering through the main entrance doors and will no longer be required to enter through ER.Main entrance doors will be locked from 6:00 pm – 6:00 am. Monday through Friday and remain locked Saturday, Sunday and holidays. When the main entrance doors are locked PCU staff will direct visitors to complete the screening on the Kiosk before unlocking the door. Assistance from staff with the Kiosk may be necessary.

Box Butte General Hospital updates temporary visitor policy

Northwest Community Action Partnership and Food Bank for the Heartland will be having a drive-through mobile food pantry on April 12 in Crawford.&nbsp;

The event will start at 5pm at 1005 1st Street in Crawford.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648769005074.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Northwest Community Action Partnership and Food Bank for the Heartland will be having a drive-through mobile food pantry on April 12 in Crawford.&nbsp;The event will start at 5pm at 1005 1st Street in Crawford.&nbsp;

Mobile food pantry to be held in Crawford 

By Molly Langhorst, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON - Chadron State College student Morgan Ekwall is the Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for the month of March. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in human biology with plans to earn her Doctor of Chiropractic degree.

Ekwall, a sophomore from Yoder, Wyoming, said chiropractic work fascinates her.

“I think the body is really a neat thing: it’s super complex and I like to understand how it works to one day hopefully help make people feel better,” Ekwall said. “It’s just fascinating to me how much your body alignment can affect your overall health.”

Ekwall, who has been going to the chiropractor since she was in the seventh grade, said she thinks most people believe chiropractors aren’t beneficial and they are just in a money-making profession, but she believes chiropractic work is beneficial and practical.

“One of my favorite things about chiropractic work is that it’s a way to make your body feel better naturally rather than just putting drugs into your body,” Ekwall said. “My favorite chiropractic quote is: ‘Medicine is the study of disease and what causes man to die. Chiropractic is the study of health and what causes man to live,’ by B.J. Palmer.”

Ekwall said she feels confident about her choice of major even though it took her awhile to figure it out.

“When I first came to Chadron, I was focusing on chiropractic, then I thought maybe I should be an orthodontist, then I looked into athletic training before switching to focusing on becoming a physical therapy, and now I am back to focusing on chiropractic,” Ekwall said, “But I have loved the final switch ever since I made it and I am confident that being a chiropractor is for me.”

One common factor within all her career interests is improving the health and wellbeing of others.

“The most important thing for me is to enjoy my future career, and I think it’s important to help people and understand the importance of their health,” Ekwall said. “I also love how in healthcare there is continuously something to learn about.”

Participating in sports most of her life, Ekwall takes pride being a thrower on CSC’s track and field team.

“I like the challenge of competition, and I like that we’re pushed to work hard and we have to find our accountability. Sports have been like my whole life, so competing in college has been really exciting for me.”

Assistant track and field coach, Elizabeth Virgl, takes note of Ekwall’s work ethic and positive personality.

“Morgan is such a fun thrower to have on the team,” Virgl said. “She always comes to practice in a good mood, ready to work hard. She loves telling a good story or sharing an interesting experience and she genuinely brings light to everyone’s day.”

Even though college and competing are important, Ekwall prioritizes her family.

“Family is super important to me. We’re all pretty close and there is definitely never a dull moment,” Ekwall said. “We’re that family at restaurants that everyone stares at because we’re all laughing and being too loud, and I love it.”

After she graduates from CSC, Ekwall plans to find a professional school to earn her Doctor of Chiropractic degree and obtain a state license so she can begin practicing.

Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/projectstrive" target="_blank">www.csc.edu/projectstrive</a>.

By Molly Langhorst, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON - Chadron State College student Morgan Ekwall is the Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for the month of March. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in human biology with plans to earn her Doctor of Chiropractic degree.Ekwall, a sophomore from Yoder, Wyoming, said chiropractic work fascinates her.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648768898987.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“I think the body is really a neat thing: it’s super complex and I like to understand how it works to one day hopefully help make people feel better,” Ekwall said. “It’s just fascinating to me how much your body alignment can affect your overall health.”Ekwall, who has been going to the chiropractor since she was in the seventh grade, said she thinks most people believe chiropractors aren’t beneficial and they are just in a money-making profession, but she believes chiropractic work is beneficial and practical.“One of my favorite things about chiropractic work is that it’s a way to make your body feel better naturally rather than just putting drugs into your body,” Ekwall said. “My favorite chiropractic quote is: ‘Medicine is the study of disease and what causes man to die. Chiropractic is the study of health and what causes man to live,’ by B.J. Palmer.”Ekwall said she feels confident about her choice of major even though it took her awhile to figure it out.“When I first came to Chadron, I was focusing on chiropractic, then I thought maybe I should be an orthodontist, then I looked into athletic training before switching to focusing on becoming a physical therapy, and now I am back to focusing on chiropractic,” Ekwall said, “But I have loved the final switch ever since I made it and I am confident that being a chiropractor is for me.”One common factor within all her career interests is improving the health and wellbeing of others.“The most important thing for me is to enjoy my future career, and I think it’s important to help people and understand the importance of their health,” Ekwall said. “I also love how in healthcare there is continuously something to learn about.”Participating in sports most of her life, Ekwall takes pride being a thrower on CSC’s track and field team.“I like the challenge of competition, and I like that we’re pushed to work hard and we have to find our accountability. Sports have been like my whole life, so competing in college has been really exciting for me.”Assistant track and field coach, Elizabeth Virgl, takes note of Ekwall’s work ethic and positive personality.“Morgan is such a fun thrower to have on the team,” Virgl said. “She always comes to practice in a good mood, ready to work hard. She loves telling a good story or sharing an interesting experience and she genuinely brings light to everyone’s day.”Even though college and competing are important, Ekwall prioritizes her family.“Family is super important to me. We’re all pretty close and there is definitely never a dull moment,” Ekwall said. “We’re that family at restaurants that everyone stares at because we’re all laughing and being too loud, and I love it.”After she graduates from CSC, Ekwall plans to find a professional school to earn her Doctor of Chiropractic degree and obtain a state license so she can begin practicing.Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/projectstrive" target="_blank">www.csc.edu/projectstrive</a>.

Ekwall named March’s Student of the Month in Chadron

As of March 31, 2022, Investigators with the Nebraska Fire Marshall, North Platte Police Department and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office continue the search for North Platte resident Jerome Vieyra.

Today, Investigators again searched the huge pile of rubble that was previously searched on March 25, 2022. After a few hours of searching, Investigators did locate human remains in the pile of rubble. The remains were removed and secured.

An autopsy is scheduled for next week for identification purposes and cause of death.

The investigation continues in this matter.

Late this afternoon, the North Platte Fire Marshall reported that their investigation did not lead to the recovery of the individual who was seen by police inside the building prior to the structure fire.

The individual contacted by police last night was the property owner, 37 year old Jerome F. Vieyra. Jerome is a suspect in the arson fire.

At this time, Jerome has been entered into the National Crime Information Center as an endangered missing person. Jerome is 5’10”, 190 lbs, brown eyes and black hair.

If anyone knows of Jerome’s whereabouts, please contact the North Platte Police Department at 308-535-6789.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-One person is believed to be dead following a fire in North Platte.

On&nbsp;March 24, at&nbsp;approximately 10:48&nbsp;p.m.,&nbsp;the North Platte 911 Center received reports of gunshots in the area of Rodeo Rd and Carr. &nbsp;Multiple callers&nbsp;<a></a>reported hearing gunshots as well as the discharge of fireworks. &nbsp;

North Platte Police Officers responded to investigate and made contact with an individual at&nbsp;1900&nbsp;Rodeo Rd. &nbsp; &nbsp;This is a large commercial property and the individual was inside of the building near an open overhead garage door. &nbsp;

There was a small fire inside of the building. &nbsp;The officers ordered the man out of the building but he&nbsp;refused their instructions and retreated into the building. &nbsp;

The North Platte Fire Department was dispatched and assistance was requested from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and the Nebraska State Patrol. &nbsp;

The officers secured the building after receiving information that there were a large number of fireworks inside. &nbsp;By 11:50 PM, the building was reported to be fully engulfed. &nbsp;

The individual whom the police had contact with, was last seen inside of the building. A source told The Post there was no way out of the building and the subject is believed to be deceased.

&nbsp;Out of concern that a grand jury may be convened, the incident is being investigated by the Nebraska Fire Marshal’s office, the North Platte Fire Marshal’s office and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From the Lincoln County Sheriff's OfficeAs of March 31, 2022, Investigators with the Nebraska Fire Marshall, North Platte Police Department and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office continue the search for North Platte resident Jerome Vieyra.Today, Investigators again searched the huge pile of rubble that was previously searched on March 25, 2022. After a few hours of searching, Investigators did locate human remains in the pile of rubble. The remains were removed and secured.An autopsy is scheduled for next week for identification purposes and cause of death.The investigation continues in this matter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648754150386.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Original StoryUPDATE 3/25/22 9:40 p.m.Late this afternoon, the North Platte Fire Marshall reported that their investigation did not lead to the recovery of the individual who was seen by police inside the building prior to the structure fire.The individual contacted by police last night was the property owner, 37 year old Jerome F. Vieyra. Jerome is a suspect in the arson fire.At this time, Jerome has been entered into the National Crime Information Center as an endangered missing person. Jerome is 5’10”, 190 lbs, brown eyes and black hair.If anyone knows of Jerome’s whereabouts, please contact the North Platte Police Department at 308-535-6789.. . .NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-One person is believed to be dead following a fire in North Platte.On&nbsp;March 24, at&nbsp;approximately 10:48&nbsp;p.m.,&nbsp;the North Platte 911 Center received reports of gunshots in the area of Rodeo Rd and Carr. &nbsp;Multiple callers&nbsp;<a></a>reported hearing gunshots as well as the discharge of fireworks. &nbsp;North Platte Police Officers responded to investigate and made contact with an individual at&nbsp;1900&nbsp;Rodeo Rd. &nbsp; &nbsp;This is a large commercial property and the individual was inside of the building near an open overhead garage door. &nbsp;There was a small fire inside of the building. &nbsp;The officers ordered the man out of the building but he&nbsp;refused their instructions and retreated into the building. &nbsp;The North Platte Fire Department was dispatched and assistance was requested from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and the Nebraska State Patrol. &nbsp;The officers secured the building after receiving information that there were a large number of fireworks inside. &nbsp;By 11:50 PM, the building was reported to be fully engulfed. &nbsp;The individual whom the police had contact with, was last seen inside of the building. A source told The Post there was no way out of the building and the subject is believed to be deceased.&nbsp;Out of concern that a grand jury may be convened, the incident is being investigated by the Nebraska Fire Marshal’s office, the North Platte Fire Marshal’s office and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Law enforcement locates human remains at site of North Platte fire

By DAVE VRBAS <a href="https://seeingrednebraska.com/lgbtqa/the-final-days-of-a-local-trans-activist/?fbclid=IwAR36uYdnbNp6CTDemE68jhoZdM_q6NFinryHT8BjlyEojHMUDubLe4Bfw1Q">Seeing Red Nebraska</a>

Originally published March 4, 2022 (<a href="https://seeingrednebraska.com/">www.seeingrednebraska.com</a>)

Milo Winslow, a local trans man and activist, died by his own hand yesterday. His final social media posts show a man tortured by the local political war ramping up regarding his right to exist in our city of Lincoln.

Milo had begun hormone therapy over the past year, and his earlier TikTok posts highlighted exhilarating moments during his transition: when his voice began to lower, and when he showed off his recently-sprouted facial hair to his 19,000 followers. In recent weeks, since the passage of the Fairness Ordinance, it was clear that the political sparring about trans folk had been weighing heavily on him.

After talking to other trans activists and knowing Milo’s penchant for the political, we agreed Milo would want his words shared. I have transcribed his three most recent TikTok videos and a rare public Facebook post in hopes of illustrating just how dire the situation can be for trans folk in our community.

Hey there y’all. So, one of the things that’s happening right now in Lincoln, Nebraska because of this fairness ordinance, is that there are a lot of people who are assuming that every person who voted for our Democrat mayor or one of our gay or lesbian city council people, or any of the other Democrats that are in local office here… people seem to really think that everyone who supported them also supports the transgender community and that because of that, the fairness ordinance will pass the ballot measure.

But I have a different perspective to offer to all of you. The only direct in-person transphobia that I have ever experienced in Lincoln, Nebraska, has been from people in the lesbian and gay community.

For instance, when I first came out as non-binary, I had been pretty involved with a group of women who were mostly queer; not everyone in the group was queer, but a vast majority of them were. And there were three older lesbians in particular who told me that they really felt that my coming out as non-binary was me trying to meet a hetero-normative standard and saying that being a lesbian wasn’t good enough.&nbsp;One of those women also told me that transgender women shouldn’t be allowed in the meetings that we attended because they weren’t “really” women and that they still benefited from being “biologically male”.

When I was running the LGBTQ+ ministry at a local church, I had a group of elder gays during an event one night very aggressively misgender me the entire event, despite the fact that my pronouns were on my name tag, and I corrected them several times.

One thing I know all of those people had in common? They all voted for our mayor. So she may have had their vote, but my guess is, as a transgender person living in Lincoln, Nebraska, they aren’t going to vote in my best interest at all because they’re pretty aggressively anti-trans in their day-to-day lives.

And this is why I will continue to post about this. This is why I will continue to be loud in my advocating for my rights and the rights of every transgendered person in this city and this state.&nbsp;Because we deserve to be here, regardless of how anyone else feels about it.

February 21, 2022 – Public Facebook Post

Milo screencapped a comment made to him on a post in a local politics group so that he could post about it. The comment:

“Milo, most foundationally, because feelings that are sin and an affront to God should never be a ‘protected’ status. Feelings should not be legislated. Furthermore, any condition where one has lost touch with reality, should not justify or be the foundation of protection.

There is right and wrong in the world. There is good and there is evil. This world has done its best to affirm whatever anyone thinks, feels or wants as acceptable. Everyone wants to define their own truth but now some are looking to force what they want upon others and force them to accept their confusion.”

This comment was made to me after I asked someone in a local politics group why it was they felt I don’t deserve protection from discrimination but yet they believe other protected classes do. I honestly didn’t think he’d respond.

It hasn’t even been a week since the LNK city council passed the Title IX changes but honestly it feels like it’s been much longer. I am already repeatedly questioning how vocally I want to be involved while also knowing full well that this isn’t a fight I will have the luxury of sitting out.

I’m angry that it’s a fight we’re having. I’m angry at the far right for weaponizing trans feminine people for their agenda. I’m angry at the dehumanizing language they use in their flyers. I’m angry at their forcing their religious ideologies onto others in the most hateful and vile ways. I’m angry that not even a week in and I’ve already been intentionally misgendered in conversations about it and told my experience is “an affront to God,” because it’s only going to get worse from here.

Mostly though, I’m angry at the political move that brought us here. A move made during midterms. A move made without the financial resources to back it up. A move made when less than 3 years ago polling said it wouldn’t pass. A move made after multiple queer and trans advocates BEGGED for it not to be made. I’m angry that this was done without a plan with the necks of transgender people (mostly trans feminine people) on the line. I’m angry that I now have to reckon with not trusting local politicians that I once felt I could trust.

Self-care. Extra therapy sessions. Finding positive connection. Snuggling Cornelia (his cat). Working as much as possible. And checking out of social media when necessary.

I’m just angry. Very angry. And we aren’t even a full week in to it all.

It’s going to be a long few months. Take care friends.

There are around 295,000 people in this city, but so far 18,501 people in this city were willing to put their name on their transphobia.

It’s gonna be a long fucking year. A really long fucking year.

I’m going to be completely honest with y’all because I realized something yesterday that is really disheartening for me personally.

Advocacy work, especially advocacy work when you are a part of the group you’re advocating for, is very emotionally taxing. And one of the reasons some activists are so successful at what they do or able to do it for such long periods of time is because they have a really great support system behind them.

And while I have great followers on TikTok and, you know, a few fringe friends in real life who will comment and like posts and such, I don’t have a support system at all. And right now, I am pretty much completely isolated in my personal life. I just, I don’t have friends right now. I don’t have any family and probably never will again. I am very much alone in the world right now.

And I realized yesterday that if I continue to work on this campaign, if I continue to try to be an advocate and an activist, I will likely be a casualty of the cause. Because I am not emotionally in a place where I am strong enough to do this work while not having a support system at all.

So, I’m stepping back. I’m going to make my account private today. I’m going to stop talking about this because answering questions last night and responding to comments, it – it just made what was already a very emotionally draining situation… completely deplete me. And I just can’t do it right now.

There are other people who are more equipped to do it right now. So I’m going to step back and I’m going to let their voices be the voices that are heard, because I can’t do the work right now.

Thank you for all of your support. I do appreciate it. Milo, you deserved better in this life. Rest in peace.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648746841800.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648746927410.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE VRBAS <a href="https://seeingrednebraska.com/lgbtqa/the-final-days-of-a-local-trans-activist/?fbclid=IwAR36uYdnbNp6CTDemE68jhoZdM_q6NFinryHT8BjlyEojHMUDubLe4Bfw1Q">Seeing Red Nebraska</a>Originally published March 4, 2022 (<a href="https://seeingrednebraska.com/">www.seeingrednebraska.com</a>)Milo Winslow, a local trans man and activist, died by his own hand yesterday. His final social media posts show a man tortured by the local political war ramping up regarding his right to exist in our city of Lincoln.Milo had begun hormone therapy over the past year, and his earlier TikTok posts highlighted exhilarating moments during his transition: when his voice began to lower, and when he showed off his recently-sprouted facial hair to his 19,000 followers. In recent weeks, since the passage of the Fairness Ordinance, it was clear that the political sparring about trans folk had been weighing heavily on him.After talking to other trans activists and knowing Milo’s penchant for the political, we agreed Milo would want his words shared. I have transcribed his three most recent TikTok videos and a rare public Facebook post in hopes of illustrating just how dire the situation can be for trans folk in our community.February&nbsp;19, 2022 – TikTok VideoHey there y’all. So, one of the things that’s happening right now in Lincoln, Nebraska because of this fairness ordinance, is that there are a lot of people who are assuming that every person who voted for our Democrat mayor or one of our gay or lesbian city council people, or any of the other Democrats that are in local office here… people seem to really think that everyone who supported them also supports the transgender community and that because of that, the fairness ordinance will pass the ballot measure.But I have a different perspective to offer to all of you. The only direct in-person transphobia that I have ever experienced in Lincoln, Nebraska, has been from people in the lesbian and gay community.For instance, when I first came out as non-binary, I had been pretty involved with a group of women who were mostly queer; not everyone in the group was queer, but a vast majority of them were. And there were three older lesbians in particular who told me that they really felt that my coming out as non-binary was me trying to meet a hetero-normative standard and saying that being a lesbian wasn’t good enough.&nbsp;One of those women also told me that transgender women shouldn’t be allowed in the meetings that we attended because they weren’t “really” women and that they still benefited from being “biologically male”.When I was running the LGBTQ+ ministry at a local church, I had a group of elder gays during an event one night very aggressively misgender me the entire event, despite the fact that my pronouns were on my name tag, and I corrected them several times.One thing I know all of those people had in common? They all voted for our mayor. So she may have had their vote, but my guess is, as a transgender person living in Lincoln, Nebraska, they aren’t going to vote in my best interest at all because they’re pretty aggressively anti-trans in their day-to-day lives.And this is why I will continue to post about this. This is why I will continue to be loud in my advocating for my rights and the rights of every transgendered person in this city and this state.&nbsp;Because we deserve to be here, regardless of how anyone else feels about it.February 21, 2022 – Public Facebook PostMilo screencapped a comment made to him on a post in a local politics group so that he could post about it. The comment:“Milo, most foundationally, because feelings that are sin and an affront to God should never be a ‘protected’ status. Feelings should not be legislated. Furthermore, any condition where one has lost touch with reality, should not justify or be the foundation of protection.There is right and wrong in the world. There is good and there is evil. This world has done its best to affirm whatever anyone thinks, feels or wants as acceptable. Everyone wants to define their own truth but now some are looking to force what they want upon others and force them to accept their confusion.”This comment was made to me after I asked someone in a local politics group why it was they felt I don’t deserve protection from discrimination but yet they believe other protected classes do. I honestly didn’t think he’d respond.It hasn’t even been a week since the LNK city council passed the Title IX changes but honestly it feels like it’s been much longer. I am already repeatedly questioning how vocally I want to be involved while also knowing full well that this isn’t a fight I will have the luxury of sitting out.I’m angry that it’s a fight we’re having. I’m angry at the far right for weaponizing trans feminine people for their agenda. I’m angry at the dehumanizing language they use in their flyers. I’m angry at their forcing their religious ideologies onto others in the most hateful and vile ways. I’m angry that not even a week in and I’ve already been intentionally misgendered in conversations about it and told my experience is “an affront to God,” because it’s only going to get worse from here.Mostly though, I’m angry at the political move that brought us here. A move made during midterms. A move made without the financial resources to back it up. A move made when less than 3 years ago polling said it wouldn’t pass. A move made after multiple queer and trans advocates BEGGED for it not to be made. I’m angry that this was done without a plan with the necks of transgender people (mostly trans feminine people) on the line. I’m angry that I now have to reckon with not trusting local politicians that I once felt I could trust.Self-care. Extra therapy sessions. Finding positive connection. Snuggling Cornelia (his cat). Working as much as possible. And checking out of social media when necessary.I’m just angry. Very angry. And we aren’t even a full week in to it all.It’s going to be a long few months. Take care friends.March 2, 2022 – TikTok VideoMilo is near tears throughout the video.They needed 4,137 signatures.They got 18,501 signatures.There are around 295,000 people in this city, but so far 18,501 people in this city were willing to put their name on their transphobia.It’s gonna be a long fucking year. A really long fucking year.March 3, 2022 – TikTok VideoI’m going to be completely honest with y’all because I realized something yesterday that is really disheartening for me personally.Advocacy work, especially advocacy work when you are a part of the group you’re advocating for, is very emotionally taxing. And one of the reasons some activists are so successful at what they do or able to do it for such long periods of time is because they have a really great support system behind them.And while I have great followers on TikTok and, you know, a few fringe friends in real life who will comment and like posts and such, I don’t have a support system at all. And right now, I am pretty much completely isolated in my personal life. I just, I don’t have friends right now. I don’t have any family and probably never will again. I am very much alone in the world right now.And I realized yesterday that if I continue to work on this campaign, if I continue to try to be an advocate and an activist, I will likely be a casualty of the cause. Because I am not emotionally in a place where I am strong enough to do this work while not having a support system at all.So, I’m stepping back. I’m going to make my account private today. I’m going to stop talking about this because answering questions last night and responding to comments, it – it just made what was already a very emotionally draining situation… completely deplete me. And I just can’t do it right now.There are other people who are more equipped to do it right now. So I’m going to step back and I’m going to let their voices be the voices that are heard, because I can’t do the work right now.Thank you for all of your support. I do appreciate it. Milo, you deserved better in this life. Rest in peace.

Tribute sheds light on tragic final days of Nebraska trans activist

CHADRON – Stress Less, an event for students to identify and learn strategies for managing stress, will be Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Center. The first 60 students to attend will receive a gift bag.

Housing Resident Advisor Kelsey Crock of Cheyenne, Wyoming, is coordinating the event with Chadron State College counselors and graduate counseling students.

Crock presented the idea as her final project in Dr. Shaunda French-Collins’ Event Planning and Leadership (CA 239) course. From there, the project took off and became a reality. Crock has worked with various departments to offer a wide variety of information and resources to students.

“As an RA, I have been able to see how stressed residents are and how it is affecting their academic, relationships, and mental health in general,” Crock said. “I have seen our campus go through many different stages in terms of our mental health. As an RA, I have seen people really struggling this year. I want to do as much as I can to help as many people as I can get the strategies, they need to make their time here at CSC the best it can be.”

Topics discussed in 30-minute sessions will include coping strategies, adulting, homesickness, and managing academic stress. One session will feature coloring for stress relief, restorative yoga, and meditation. In another session, a representative of Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska (BHECN) will share information with students about career pathways in behavioral health.

The event is hosted by the Residence Life Association, BHECN, CSC Counseling Program, Health Services, and Campus Wellness. Students in French-Collins’&nbsp;Risk and Crisis Communication (CA 425)&nbsp;course developed publicity materials for the event.

By ASIA GRAHAM, College RelationsCHADRON – Stress Less, an event for students to identify and learn strategies for managing stress, will be Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Center. The first 60 students to attend will receive a gift bag.Housing Resident Advisor Kelsey Crock of Cheyenne, Wyoming, is coordinating the event with Chadron State College counselors and graduate counseling students.Crock presented the idea as her final project in Dr. Shaunda French-Collins’ Event Planning and Leadership (CA 239) course. From there, the project took off and became a reality. Crock has worked with various departments to offer a wide variety of information and resources to students.“As an RA, I have been able to see how stressed residents are and how it is affecting their academic, relationships, and mental health in general,” Crock said. “I have seen our campus go through many different stages in terms of our mental health. As an RA, I have seen people really struggling this year. I want to do as much as I can to help as many people as I can get the strategies, they need to make their time here at CSC the best it can be.”Topics discussed in 30-minute sessions will include coping strategies, adulting, homesickness, and managing academic stress. One session will feature coloring for stress relief, restorative yoga, and meditation. In another session, a representative of Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska (BHECN) will share information with students about career pathways in behavioral health.The event is hosted by the Residence Life Association, BHECN, CSC Counseling Program, Health Services, and Campus Wellness. Students in French-Collins’&nbsp;Risk and Crisis Communication (CA 425)&nbsp;course developed publicity materials for the event.

Stress Less offers Chadron students ways to cope with pressures

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 3/31/22

Alliance – The City of Alliance has been informed that Bird e-scooters are available for use starting today.

 Bird e-scooters are a private business, and not associated with the City of Alliance, therefore, please reach out to Bird directly with any questions or concerns on their service using the following contact information:

· Community Mode: Community Mode is accessible by clicking the "Triangle with the exclamation point inside of it" in the bottom left corner within the Bird mobile app. Click this button, and you’ll find three separate options: report a “Badly Parked Bird’’, “Damaged Bird”, and “Contact Bird”. This is by far the most efficient way to report the aforementioned topics to the Bird Team and you do not have to be a rider to use this feature (only have to have the app downloaded).&nbsp;

hello@bird.co: General support email address.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The City of Alliance has been informed that Bird e-scooters are available for use starting today. Bird e-scooters are a private business, and not associated with the City of Alliance, therefore, please reach out to Bird directly with any questions or concerns on their service using the following contact information:· Community Mode: Community Mode is accessible by clicking the "Triangle with the exclamation point inside of it" in the bottom left corner within the Bird mobile app. Click this button, and you’ll find three separate options: report a “Badly Parked Bird’’, “Damaged Bird”, and “Contact Bird”. This is by far the most efficient way to report the aforementioned topics to the Bird Team and you do not have to be a rider to use this feature (only have to have the app downloaded).&nbsp;hello@bird.co: General support email address.· +1 (866) 205-2442: 24/7 support line.

Bird Scooters now available in Alliance

Hot Springs, SD - Fall River Health Services (FRHS) continues to invest in our team’s education to ensure the best resident and patient care. Employees at FRHS’ Seven Sisters Living Center (SSLC) recently competed the comprehensive National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioner (NCCDP) course.

The Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) certification indicates the front-line staff and health care professionals have received comprehensive training in Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia care, successfully completing the Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Care course, met the NCCDP requirements for CDP certification, applied for and received the CDP certification.

Staff receiving the CDP designation include: Madyson Gese, Aden Nelson, Sahvana Hayne, Jennifer Streeter, Charlee Hughes, Stephanie Lawrence, Dustin Fleharty, Seth Simunek, Angela Cross, Karissa Koffler, Regina Esche, Dawn Hurney, Jasmine Aguilar, Wendy Garmany, Michelle Paterson, Katie Briese, Amanda Stalder, Janet Rhew, Lorna Shull, Eloise One Feather, Kim Sullivan, Pam McDearmon, Theresa James, Shannon Zimiga, Sherry Miles, Lila Heck, Elizabeth Heller, Bernadine Huber, Wendy Pay Pay, Krista Nielsen, Julie Winkler, Dee Hughes, and Michele Ruhoff. The course was made possible by a grant received from Black Hills Energy and instructed by FRHS Behavioral Health Clinic nurses - Cynthia Hughes, LPN, AAS, CDP, CADDCT and Megan Curran, RN, BSN, CPN, CDP, CADDCT.

A CDP certification reflects a deep personal commitment on the part of front-line staff and health care professionals. It is also a reflection of FRHS’ pledge to uphold the NCCDP Ethic’s statement to inspire confidence and dedication in an individual's professional knowledge through quality of life and quality of care provided by the CDP to the dementia patient. The CDP certification is not a profession rather it is a compliment to the professional credentials and training that have already been obtained to work with the geriatric profession.

Congratulations to the dedicated FRHS Team at SSLC for their commitment and care to the residents and our community. FRHS has Our Community at Heart. 

By Fall River Health ServicesHot Springs, SD - Fall River Health Services (FRHS) continues to invest in our team’s education to ensure the best resident and patient care. Employees at FRHS’ Seven Sisters Living Center (SSLC) recently competed the comprehensive National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioner (NCCDP) course.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648738432405.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) certification indicates the front-line staff and health care professionals have received comprehensive training in Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia care, successfully completing the Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Care course, met the NCCDP requirements for CDP certification, applied for and received the CDP certification.Staff receiving the CDP designation include: Madyson Gese, Aden Nelson, Sahvana Hayne, Jennifer Streeter, Charlee Hughes, Stephanie Lawrence, Dustin Fleharty, Seth Simunek, Angela Cross, Karissa Koffler, Regina Esche, Dawn Hurney, Jasmine Aguilar, Wendy Garmany, Michelle Paterson, Katie Briese, Amanda Stalder, Janet Rhew, Lorna Shull, Eloise One Feather, Kim Sullivan, Pam McDearmon, Theresa James, Shannon Zimiga, Sherry Miles, Lila Heck, Elizabeth Heller, Bernadine Huber, Wendy Pay Pay, Krista Nielsen, Julie Winkler, Dee Hughes, and Michele Ruhoff. The course was made possible by a grant received from Black Hills Energy and instructed by FRHS Behavioral Health Clinic nurses - Cynthia Hughes, LPN, AAS, CDP, CADDCT and Megan Curran, RN, BSN, CPN, CDP, CADDCT.A CDP certification reflects a deep personal commitment on the part of front-line staff and health care professionals. It is also a reflection of FRHS’ pledge to uphold the NCCDP Ethic’s statement to inspire confidence and dedication in an individual's professional knowledge through quality of life and quality of care provided by the CDP to the dementia patient. The CDP certification is not a profession rather it is a compliment to the professional credentials and training that have already been obtained to work with the geriatric profession.Congratulations to the dedicated FRHS Team at SSLC for their commitment and care to the residents and our community. FRHS has Our Community at Heart.

Fall River Health Services staff completes national certification course

News Release Nebraska Wine Growers&nbsp;

The Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association (NWGGA) is excited to launch ticket sales for their annual wine festival, TOAST Nebraska, the largest gathering of wineries in the state.&nbsp; Consisting of 17 participating wineries for the 2022 festival, the event is one of a kind in that the wineries themselves host the event through the statewide association (NWGGA). The festival is a fantastic chance to experience a wide variety of offerings from wineries located across the state, all in one location at Stinson Park in Omaha's Aksarben Village. The event reached record attendance in May of 2021 with over 3,000 attendees from over 22 states, and the wineries expect even more excitement surrounding the 2022 event. Along with the participating wineries, attendees can expect products and offerings from over 34 local artisan and food vendors, live music and bands, and free activities including charcuterie classes, wine education seminars, and the crowd-favorite, wine bingo.&nbsp; The event is an excellent opportunity to stock up on your Nebraska wine favorites or discover a new preference. Attendees can purchase multiple bottles of wine to replenish - or start - their very own Nebraska wine cellar at home. The event staff even hosts a wine check, similar to a coat check, so purchasers needn't worry about bearing the weight of all their new purchases. Attendees can also purchase bottles for consumption on-site, with many sharing a bottle with friends while enjoying the live music on the lawn in front of the Bradford Bowl stage or playing a few relaxing games of wine bingo in the picnic area.&nbsp; The event is hosted over two days at Stinson Park, kicking off on Friday, May 13, with doors opening at 4:00 p.m. and the event ending at 9:00 p.m. The fun continues on Saturday, May 14 at 1:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Tickets are $35 for Friday tickets and $45 for Saturday tickets. Admission includes a wine tasting glass, unlimited wine tastings, a wine tote, access to vendors, live music and bands, and free activities such as charcuterie classes and wine bingo. Two-day tickets, as well as designated driver tickets, are also available. Tickets increase by $20 on May 6 until the event ends. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older to attend - no infants, children, or pets. To purchase tickets and find more event information for the 2022 TOAST Nebraska Wine Festival, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://youraam.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c07df91167fecd0304e033611&amp;id=40f3da4112&amp;e=677554bc30" target="_blank">www.toastwinefest.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://youraam.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c07df91167fecd0304e033611&amp;id=62437c9719&amp;e=677554bc30" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/toastwinefest</a>. Tickets are limited, and on-site ticket availability is not guaranteed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648734655898.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska Wine Growers&nbsp; The Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association (NWGGA) is excited to launch ticket sales for their annual wine festival, TOAST Nebraska, the largest gathering of wineries in the state.&nbsp; Consisting of 17 participating wineries for the 2022 festival, the event is one of a kind in that the wineries themselves host the event through the statewide association (NWGGA). The festival is a fantastic chance to experience a wide variety of offerings from wineries located across the state, all in one location at Stinson Park in Omaha's Aksarben Village. The event reached record attendance in May of 2021 with over 3,000 attendees from over 22 states, and the wineries expect even more excitement surrounding the 2022 event. Along with the participating wineries, attendees can expect products and offerings from over 34 local artisan and food vendors, live music and bands, and free activities including charcuterie classes, wine education seminars, and the crowd-favorite, wine bingo.&nbsp; The event is an excellent opportunity to stock up on your Nebraska wine favorites or discover a new preference. Attendees can purchase multiple bottles of wine to replenish - or start - their very own Nebraska wine cellar at home. The event staff even hosts a wine check, similar to a coat check, so purchasers needn't worry about bearing the weight of all their new purchases. Attendees can also purchase bottles for consumption on-site, with many sharing a bottle with friends while enjoying the live music on the lawn in front of the Bradford Bowl stage or playing a few relaxing games of wine bingo in the picnic area.&nbsp; The event is hosted over two days at Stinson Park, kicking off on Friday, May 13, with doors opening at 4:00 p.m. and the event ending at 9:00 p.m. The fun continues on Saturday, May 14 at 1:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Tickets are $35 for Friday tickets and $45 for Saturday tickets. Admission includes a wine tasting glass, unlimited wine tastings, a wine tote, access to vendors, live music and bands, and free activities such as charcuterie classes and wine bingo. Two-day tickets, as well as designated driver tickets, are also available. Tickets increase by $20 on May 6 until the event ends. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older to attend - no infants, children, or pets. To purchase tickets and find more event information for the 2022 TOAST Nebraska Wine Festival, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://youraam.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c07df91167fecd0304e033611&amp;id=40f3da4112&amp;e=677554bc30" target="_blank">www.toastwinefest.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://youraam.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=c07df91167fecd0304e033611&amp;id=62437c9719&amp;e=677554bc30" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/toastwinefest</a>. Tickets are limited, and on-site ticket availability is not guaranteed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Nebraska wineries to host 2022 Toast Nebraska Wine Festival

LINCOLN&nbsp;– Governor Pete Ricketts spotlighted an interagency initiative to donate protective equipment to Ukrainians fighting for their country’s independence.&nbsp;

“Ukrainians have bravely withstood Russia’s unprovoked invasion for more than a month,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “As they’ve come under attack, the Ukrainian people have shown spirited resistance that has won the respect of the free world.&nbsp; As they defend their homeland, Ukrainians have an immense need for protective gear.&nbsp; Agencies large and small from across Nebraska have stepped up to help meet this need.&nbsp; I’m grateful for Nebraskans’ generosity in donating these critical supplies.”

A truck from the Nebraska Department of Transportation delivered the supplies to Iowa yesterday.&nbsp; Earlier today, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds held a press event as supplies from Nebraska and Iowa were loaded onto a plane bound for Ukraine.

“Ukrainian men and women have taken up arms alongside their military to protect their homeland from Putin’s unprovoked attack,” said Gov. Reynolds. &nbsp;“Iowa has a special connection to Ukraine through our sister state relationship with Cherkasy. &nbsp;Today’s donation fulfills an urgent need in Cherkasy and represents an incredible team effort from the entire state. &nbsp;I’m proud that Iowa is doing what we can to help.”

In total, Nebraskans donated 560 pieces of protective equipment, including 321 body armor vests and 69 kevlar helmets.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

At this afternoon’s press conference at the Capitol, members of Nebraska’s Ukrainian community expressed gratitude for the State’s support.&nbsp; They also underscored the need for humanitarian aid to assist Ukrainians affected by Russia’s invasion.&nbsp; Third grade student Lexi Fedoronko shared her concerns for her grandparents who are in Ukraine, and she asked Nebraskans to do what they can to help.&nbsp; Assumption Ukrainian Catholic Church in Omaha is collecting donations through its website:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fukrainiancatholicbvm.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=ISCUvt2gMLjiygD90WP3Vj9ASDs5XPFlasiexEh%2FGNA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">ukrainiancatholicbvm.org</a>.

Gov. Ricketts mentioned numerous other organizations working to provide assistance within Ukraine and to Ukrainian refugees.&nbsp; They include:

Gov. Ricketts thanked the Nebraska Department of Transportation, Military Department, State Patrol, Department of Administrative Services, and local law enforcement agencies and associations for working together to gather the donations and send them to Iowa.&nbsp; He also thanked Governor Reynolds and Iowa state agencies for their partnership.

Video of today’s press conference is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Facsdqdjjavgvtdk%2FGov.%2520Press%2520Conference%25203.30.2022.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731299619%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=OzA1QLZv1YMIXErSX5wU00JpLgA20LhrKsDbQS%2BX3Cw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN&nbsp;– Governor Pete Ricketts spotlighted an interagency initiative to donate protective equipment to Ukrainians fighting for their country’s independence.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648684366752.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Ukrainians have bravely withstood Russia’s unprovoked invasion for more than a month,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “As they’ve come under attack, the Ukrainian people have shown spirited resistance that has won the respect of the free world.&nbsp; As they defend their homeland, Ukrainians have an immense need for protective gear.&nbsp; Agencies large and small from across Nebraska have stepped up to help meet this need.&nbsp; I’m grateful for Nebraskans’ generosity in donating these critical supplies.”A truck from the Nebraska Department of Transportation delivered the supplies to Iowa yesterday.&nbsp; Earlier today, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds held a press event as supplies from Nebraska and Iowa were loaded onto a plane bound for Ukraine.“Ukrainian men and women have taken up arms alongside their military to protect their homeland from Putin’s unprovoked attack,” said Gov. Reynolds. &nbsp;“Iowa has a special connection to Ukraine through our sister state relationship with Cherkasy. &nbsp;Today’s donation fulfills an urgent need in Cherkasy and represents an incredible team effort from the entire state. &nbsp;I’m proud that Iowa is doing what we can to help.”In total, Nebraskans donated 560 pieces of protective equipment, including 321 body armor vests and 69 kevlar helmets.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;At this afternoon’s press conference at the Capitol, members of Nebraska’s Ukrainian community expressed gratitude for the State’s support.&nbsp; They also underscored the need for humanitarian aid to assist Ukrainians affected by Russia’s invasion.&nbsp; Third grade student Lexi Fedoronko shared her concerns for her grandparents who are in Ukraine, and she asked Nebraskans to do what they can to help.&nbsp; Assumption Ukrainian Catholic Church in Omaha is collecting donations through its website:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fukrainiancatholicbvm.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=ISCUvt2gMLjiygD90WP3Vj9ASDs5XPFlasiexEh%2FGNA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">ukrainiancatholicbvm.org</a>.Gov. Ricketts mentioned numerous other organizations working to provide assistance within Ukraine and to Ukrainian refugees.&nbsp; They include:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.directrelief.org%2Fplace%2Fukraine%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=dkvSnfYm5Krn7G2rQzo3QhIUEk2bFGrZYvTWKeVYELc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Direct Relief</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalempowermentmission.org%2Fmission%2Fukraine-crisis%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=esKzs%2BrVVS5bZwKFl%2FJ5vOgHMPgcIsSdGFgpX8qutvk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Global Empowerment Mission</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.icrc.org%2Fen%2Fdonate%2Fukraine&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=%2BK6E0Pb1YDLvhwhgZDrbvhXELsmgiLLEA7TPkI9z5go%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">International Committee of the Red Cross</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finternationalmedicalcorps.org%2Fcountry%2Fukraine%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=VwKHI9skKTDztnezQt5s72SMa%2FXM56Qi0E8xjmXGIVw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">International Medical Corps</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jewishomaha.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=P4rLTaUci9PAN29gwNg%2BEPi8CoZR2rqeBO%2BebkZ6sW0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Jewish Federation of Omaha</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rsukraine.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=Kx6IIRUXhX6lauPrLw8V0VKcix6kppYEuIeb6o%2BWhMk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Revived Soldiers Ukraine</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.savethechildren.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=cJi1jMosgxO%2Bbu1Z894Fo0WdHczbK5UrYpfg9MhRVFw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Save the Children Federation</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sendrelief.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=2V1a4%2FSQ2AvrdbIHzFIQk0IknyyitTyMyK7J0C0izSU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Send Relief Inc.</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.creightonprep.org%2Fevents%2Fsupportukraine&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731143411%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=Nt8ukNICBrDIVzhn0L5484k%2FgdxUbX7NhhT%2BY%2BcDbz0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">The Jesuits</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwck.org%2Frelief%2Factivation-chefs-for-ukraine&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731299619%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=tpE6%2F7OQjMYco%2B%2FczW5b2S%2BSUVaORD3RIMZBJJZyEsA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">World Central Kitchen</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.samaritanspurse.org%2Four-ministry%2Fukraine-response%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731299619%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=e%2BCz3r%2BsPpeBXZ1M3rLmsAHCj9Eq3h5xc94CbpWUQd4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Samaritan's Purse</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fconvoyofhope.org%2Fresponse-updates%2Fconvoy-reaching-out-to-help-in-ukrainian-crisis%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731299619%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=DwKr97GN3DHfdQ37iKqx7zN7%2B3HmtQcJy%2FZZzYrZCEM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Convoy of Hope</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgive.fmsc.org%2Fgive%2F396309%2F%23!%2Fdonation%2Fcheckout%3Fc_src%3Dfmscorg%26c_src2%3Dhomepagebanner&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731299619%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=Bck9LKPv61nUtKAEFHnsCk9x0ts8FkWYf%2BMx3YLoOwg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Feed My Starving Children</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Foperationsafeharborukraine.com%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731299619%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=KxjYwNm%2FVwcvkSwFiQ1ZS02RVkwVlsVi5hFpgdNymcg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Executive Travel</a></li>
 </ul>Gov. Ricketts thanked the Nebraska Department of Transportation, Military Department, State Patrol, Department of Administrative Services, and local law enforcement agencies and associations for working together to gather the donations and send them to Iowa.&nbsp; He also thanked Governor Reynolds and Iowa state agencies for their partnership.Video of today’s press conference is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Facsdqdjjavgvtdk%2FGov.%2520Press%2520Conference%25203.30.2022.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C237494f20df446516e9008da129600f2%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637842732731299619%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=OzA1QLZv1YMIXErSX5wU00JpLgA20LhrKsDbQS%2BX3Cw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts highlights statewide effort to support Ukraine

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers are working to advance a large, multi-pronged tax package despite concerns that it would send the biggest benefits to high income-earners. 

The bill would cut the top personal and corporate income tax rates, create a new tax credit for property owners and accelerate the phase-out of a Social Security income tax that lawmakers approved last year. 

It appears likely to advance through the first of three required votes Wednesday, although some lawmakers said they would push for more changes. 

Supporters say the measure would make Nebraska more attractive to seniors and businesses and competitive with its neighboring states.

By Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers are working to advance a large, multi-pronged tax package despite concerns that it would send the biggest benefits to high income-earners. The bill would cut the top personal and corporate income tax rates, create a new tax credit for property owners and accelerate the phase-out of a Social Security income tax that lawmakers approved last year. It appears likely to advance through the first of three required votes Wednesday, although some lawmakers said they would push for more changes. Supporters say the measure would make Nebraska more attractive to seniors and businesses and competitive with its neighboring states.

Lawmakers slog toward a vote on income, property tax package

During the early morning hours of March 30 Chadron Police Sgt. Stolley was conducting checks of local businesses in Chadron, when she came upon a suspicious vehicle parked along side a business in the alley of the 200 block of Main Street. 

Sgt. Stolley exited her patrol vehicle to see what was happening and came across a male in the driver’s seat, passed out. 

The driver’s side window was cracked and Sgt. Stolley could smell the odor of raw marijuana coming from within the vehicle. 

Sgt. Stolley called for another officer to assist her and Officer Deines responded to the scene. She awakened the driver and identified the driver as 33-year-old Allen D. Powley of Rogue River Oregon.

"Sgt. Stolley and Officer Deines searched the motor vehicle Powley was located in and as a result seized over 10 pounds of marijuana, including THC wax and hash," Chadron Police Chief Rick Hickstein said. "Also located during the search was approximately a gram of suspected heroin, residue amounts of methamphetamine...and several items of drug paraphernalia to include digital scales and plastic bags."

Powley was placed under arrest and transported to the Chadron Police Department. 

"Sgt. Stolley applied for and obtained a search warrant to seize the vehicle Powley had been driving," Hickstein said. "Upon receipt of the search warrant, the vehicle was searched further and items related to the rental papers of the vehicle and other items of drug paraphernalia were seized."

Later, Powley was taken to the Chadron Community Hospital for medical clearance and then transported to the Dawes County Jail.

 Powley was charged with Possession of Marijuana over 1 pound (Class IV Felony), Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute (Class IIA Felony), Possession of Heroin (Class IV Felony), Possession of Oxycodone (Class IV Felony), Possession of Methamphetamine (Class IV Felony), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (infraction). 

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostDuring the early morning hours of March 30 Chadron Police Sgt. Stolley was conducting checks of local businesses in Chadron, when she came upon a suspicious vehicle parked along side a business in the alley of the 200 block of Main Street. Sgt. Stolley exited her patrol vehicle to see what was happening and came across a male in the driver’s seat, passed out. The driver’s side window was cracked and Sgt. Stolley could smell the odor of raw marijuana coming from within the vehicle. Sgt. Stolley called for another officer to assist her and Officer Deines responded to the scene. She awakened the driver and identified the driver as 33-year-old Allen D. Powley of Rogue River Oregon."Sgt. Stolley and Officer Deines searched the motor vehicle Powley was located in and as a result seized over 10 pounds of marijuana, including THC wax and hash," Chadron Police Chief Rick Hickstein said. "Also located during the search was approximately a gram of suspected heroin, residue amounts of methamphetamine...and several items of drug paraphernalia to include digital scales and plastic bags."Powley was placed under arrest and transported to the Chadron Police Department. "Sgt. Stolley applied for and obtained a search warrant to seize the vehicle Powley had been driving," Hickstein said. "Upon receipt of the search warrant, the vehicle was searched further and items related to the rental papers of the vehicle and other items of drug paraphernalia were seized."Later, Powley was taken to the Chadron Community Hospital for medical clearance and then transported to the Dawes County Jail. Powley was charged with Possession of Marijuana over 1 pound (Class IV Felony), Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute (Class IIA Felony), Possession of Heroin (Class IV Felony), Possession of Oxycodone (Class IV Felony), Possession of Methamphetamine (Class IV Felony), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (infraction). Bond was set at 10% of $100,000.

Chadron police arrest man with heroin, meth, oxycodone, marijuana 

Alliance – The Alliance Public Library is springing into April with Story Time for ages 3-6 in the Children’s Room on Tuesdays at 10 am and Thursdays at 1 pm.

Upcoming themes include “Poetry for Young Hearts” on April 5th and 7th, “Fantastic Furry Family” plus an Easter Egg Hunt on April 12th and 14th, “Earth Hugs” on April 19th and 21st and “Spring Gardens” on April 26th and 28th.

Little Blue Peep has lost his way and needs your help at the library today! March 29th through April 18th, preschool through second grade children can search for Little Blue Peep then return him to the circulation desk for a prize, with one prize per child.

For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The Alliance Public Library is springing into April with Story Time for ages 3-6 in the Children’s Room on Tuesdays at 10 am and Thursdays at 1 pm.Upcoming themes include “Poetry for Young Hearts” on April 5th and 7th, “Fantastic Furry Family” plus an Easter Egg Hunt on April 12th and 14th, “Earth Hugs” on April 19th and 21st and “Spring Gardens” on April 26th and 28th.Little Blue Peep has lost his way and needs your help at the library today! March 29th through April 18th, preschool through second grade children can search for Little Blue Peep then return him to the circulation desk for a prize, with one prize per child.For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

Alliance Public Library announce April Story Time themes

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 3/30/22

By&nbsp;Northwest Community Action Partnership

Chadron — Each year Runza hosts their annual Feeds the Need fundraiser to benefit programs that address issues of food security. This year Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) has once again been selected to be the beneficiary of this generous fundraiser. NCAP addresses food security issues in a variety of ways and for people of all ages and walks of life. Some of the programs we operate or support to address these needs are the Extra Helpings Food Pantry, Mobile Food Pantries, Backpack Program, Feed a Hungry Senior and more.

Please join us for this fabulous fundraiser and a delicious meal anytime on Tuesday April 5th at the Chadron Runza. 10% of all sales from the day will be donated to NCAP to support our programs. We hope to see you there! 

By&nbsp;Northwest Community Action PartnershipChadron — Each year Runza hosts their annual Feeds the Need fundraiser to benefit programs that address issues of food security. This year Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) has once again been selected to be the beneficiary of this generous fundraiser. NCAP addresses food security issues in a variety of ways and for people of all ages and walks of life. Some of the programs we operate or support to address these needs are the Extra Helpings Food Pantry, Mobile Food Pantries, Backpack Program, Feed a Hungry Senior and more.Please join us for this fabulous fundraiser and a delicious meal anytime on Tuesday April 5th at the Chadron Runza. 10% of all sales from the day will be donated to NCAP to support our programs. We hope to see you there!

Runza 'Feeds the Need' fundraiser to benefit Northwest Community Action Partnership

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

According to Bridges Out of Poverty, the three economic classes, poverty, middle class, and wealth, have different ways of viewing what is important. It is important to understand how we value different things if we want to better understand each other.

People in the middle class value possessions, wanting to own things. Those in wealth want to own one-of-a-kind objects that they might pass on to heirs or donate to museums. However, people who live in poverty place very little value on things. Instead they value people and relationships.

Along with owning possessions, people in different classes view money differently. Those in wealth invest their money. Middle class sees the need to manage money and save for retirement and emergencies. In poverty, money is meant to be spent or shared. Jodi Pharr, our speaker from the June, 2021, program, spent a lot of time talking about this and giving examples. Basically, if a friend asks you for money and you have it, you share. You remember when you needed help; friends, maybe this person, gave you what you needed. And you know you may be in that position again.

Another big difference is how we value clothing. People in poverty want their clothes to express their personality. In middle class the focus is on fitting in, and brand names are important. People in wealth look for artistic expression in their clothing and have favorite designers.

Who has the power in a household? Middle class households tend to be patriarchal, with the father being the ultimate decision-maker. In poverty, women usually have the power and control the home. Power dynamics in a wealth household depend on who has the money.

Education, especially college, is valued by the middle class as being crucial for climbing the success ladder and making money. In poverty education is valued, but it is abstract. Friends aren’t going to college, and no one in their family ever has, so it isn’t seen as a realistic option. In wealth, college is viewed as necessary for making and maintaining connections.

Fighting is another area with major differences. In wealth, money is used to undermine a person you have a major disagreement with, and lawyers do the fighting. People in poverty use name calling and must physically fight, or have someone fight for them, in order to survive. Middle class people use words to negotiate when they have conflicts. Each group uses social inclusion and exclusion.

How about humor? In poverty, a sense of humor is highly valued. Stories and jokes focus on sex and on people, and the ability to entertain others is critical. In wealth, humor is generally about social faux pas. Middle class humor tends to be about situations.

The Bridges Out of Poverty book explains that another big difference among the classes is how “the world” is defined for them. Wealthy individuals view the international scene as their world. Middle class people think of the world in terms of the United States, and leaving the borders of our nation would be an exceptional experience or vacation. Someone in poverty rarely thinks beyond their local setting.

People in poverty are driven by survival, relationships, and entertainment. They believe in fate and that they cannot do much to change their lives. Wealthy people often believe they are entitled, and they focus on financial, political, and social connections. In the middle class, work and achievement are the driving forces. The future can be changed by making good choices now.

On June 9, the Alliance Poverty Task Force will host a Bridges Out of Poverty program, the Community Lens. We will look at how the economic insecurity of low-wage workers and the middle class is causing damage, and how to make our community more sustainable. Our goal is to improve the lives of low-wage workers and those in poverty, to make Box Butte County an area where everyone can do well.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceAccording to Bridges Out of Poverty, the three economic classes, poverty, middle class, and wealth, have different ways of viewing what is important. It is important to understand how we value different things if we want to better understand each other.People in the middle class value possessions, wanting to own things. Those in wealth want to own one-of-a-kind objects that they might pass on to heirs or donate to museums. However, people who live in poverty place very little value on things. Instead they value people and relationships.Along with owning possessions, people in different classes view money differently. Those in wealth invest their money. Middle class sees the need to manage money and save for retirement and emergencies. In poverty, money is meant to be spent or shared. Jodi Pharr, our speaker from the June, 2021, program, spent a lot of time talking about this and giving examples. Basically, if a friend asks you for money and you have it, you share. You remember when you needed help; friends, maybe this person, gave you what you needed. And you know you may be in that position again.Another big difference is how we value clothing. People in poverty want their clothes to express their personality. In middle class the focus is on fitting in, and brand names are important. People in wealth look for artistic expression in their clothing and have favorite designers.Who has the power in a household? Middle class households tend to be patriarchal, with the father being the ultimate decision-maker. In poverty, women usually have the power and control the home. Power dynamics in a wealth household depend on who has the money.Education, especially college, is valued by the middle class as being crucial for climbing the success ladder and making money. In poverty education is valued, but it is abstract. Friends aren’t going to college, and no one in their family ever has, so it isn’t seen as a realistic option. In wealth, college is viewed as necessary for making and maintaining connections.Fighting is another area with major differences. In wealth, money is used to undermine a person you have a major disagreement with, and lawyers do the fighting. People in poverty use name calling and must physically fight, or have someone fight for them, in order to survive. Middle class people use words to negotiate when they have conflicts. Each group uses social inclusion and exclusion.How about humor? In poverty, a sense of humor is highly valued. Stories and jokes focus on sex and on people, and the ability to entertain others is critical. In wealth, humor is generally about social faux pas. Middle class humor tends to be about situations.The Bridges Out of Poverty book explains that another big difference among the classes is how “the world” is defined for them. Wealthy individuals view the international scene as their world. Middle class people think of the world in terms of the United States, and leaving the borders of our nation would be an exceptional experience or vacation. Someone in poverty rarely thinks beyond their local setting.People in poverty are driven by survival, relationships, and entertainment. They believe in fate and that they cannot do much to change their lives. Wealthy people often believe they are entitled, and they focus on financial, political, and social connections. In the middle class, work and achievement are the driving forces. The future can be changed by making good choices now.On June 9, the Alliance Poverty Task Force will host a Bridges Out of Poverty program, the Community Lens. We will look at how the economic insecurity of low-wage workers and the middle class is causing damage, and how to make our community more sustainable. Our goal is to improve the lives of low-wage workers and those in poverty, to make Box Butte County an area where everyone can do well.

Poverty In Our Area: Hidden values of class

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts has vetoed a bill that would force the state to apply for $120 million in federal pandemic rental assistance. 

The Republican governor argued that Nebraska is no longer in a declared state of emergency due to the pandemic and said the extra money would amount to a subsidy that would make recipients reliant on the government.

 Ricketts also says the state still has nearly $30 million in unused rental assistance money from an earlier round of federal aid. 

He says Nebraska only used about 40% of the money from that first round. 

Supporters have said they’ll attempt to override the governor’s veto, which would require support from 30 state lawmakers.

By Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts has vetoed a bill that would force the state to apply for $120 million in federal pandemic rental assistance. The Republican governor argued that Nebraska is no longer in a declared state of emergency due to the pandemic and said the extra money would amount to a subsidy that would make recipients reliant on the government. Ricketts also says the state still has nearly $30 million in unused rental assistance money from an earlier round of federal aid. He says Nebraska only used about 40% of the money from that first round. Supporters have said they’ll attempt to override the governor’s veto, which would require support from 30 state lawmakers.

Nebraska Gov. Ricketts vetoes rental assistance bill

News Release Univ. of Nebraska Medical Center

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 </figure>News Release Univ. of Nebraska Medical CenterOMAHA, Neb.-In the U.S. News &amp; World Report 2023 Best Graduate Schools rankings released yesterday, the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s primary care program ranked seventh out of 124 institutions across the country.&nbsp;UNMC also tied for seventh in most graduates practicing in rural areas and 19th in most graduates practicing in primary care fields.&nbsp;Primary care is considered family medicine, general internal medicine, general pediatrics or internal medicine pediatrics.&nbsp;Other UNMC programs also received rankings in the 2023 report.&nbsp;Each year, U.S. News ranks professional school programs in business, education, engineering, law, medicine and nursing, including specialties in each area. The data came from statistical surveys of more than 2,150 programs and from reputation surveys sent to more than 23,200 academics and professionals, conducted in fall 2021 and early 2022.&nbsp;The rankings evaluate schools on faculty resources, academic achievements of entering students and qualitative assessments by schools and residency directors. The research rankings include two measures of research productivity, while the primary care rankings incorporate two metrics for graduates going into primary care. The Best Graduate Schools rankings are based on expert opinion about program excellence and statistical indicators that measure the quality of a school's faculty, research and students.&nbsp;"We are pleased that UNMCs educational programs are ranked among the best in the country," said&nbsp;Dele Davies, MD,&nbsp;senior vice chancellor for academic affairs. "The primary care and rural rankings are particularly gratifying because we have a long-standing commitment to primary care education and rural communities. These rankings also underscore our commitment and strengths in other health disciplines."&nbsp;Other UNMC programs noted in the 2023 report:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>College of Nursing Doctor of Nursing practice: Tied for 50th of 158 ranked schools. Last year in the 2022 U.S. News &amp; World Report Best Colleges issue, the college’s Bachelor of Nursing program ranked 10th among 694 programs in the country.&nbsp;</li><li>UNMC research: Tied for 53rd of 123 ranked schools.&nbsp;</li><li>College of Public Health: Tied for 54th of 190 ranked schools and programs.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>In 2022, the following programs were ranked:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>College of Pharmacy:&nbsp;28th in the nation out of 141 schools.&nbsp;</li><li>College of Allied Health Professions' physical therapy program:&nbsp;34th of 239 out of ranked programs.&nbsp;</li><li>College of Allied Health Professions' physician assistant program: Tied for 15th out of 170 ranked programs.&nbsp;</li>
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