POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Good Grief!

By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

LINCOLN, Neb. – On Friday, Oct. 10 the Lincoln Regional Center (LRC) will host its 16th&nbsp;Annual Walk for Mental Health Awareness. The walk unites individuals with lived experience and care providers in accessing resources in the community. LRC strives to promote accurate information about mental health challenges, uphold individuals as people instead of a diagnosis, and promote mental healthcare and resources for all Nebraskans.&nbsp;

“We walk every year because recovery is a journey of several small milestones leading toward positive change, finding&nbsp;purpose, and improving well-being. Healing is an odyssey of reflection, perseverance, and inner strength as every individual’s quest has different obstacles to overcome,”&nbsp;said Mitchell Bruening, LRC Hospital Administrator for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). “At LRC, we take pride in providing treatment to help individuals rebuild their lives.”

This year's theme is “A Pace Odyssey.” The pace of mental health recovery is different for each person. Steps can be forward, backward, or sideways; regardless, no step is a waste. Each movement is a motion toward hope and healing.

“Mental health or well-being is not a destination. It is an everyday quest toward deserving of support tailored to an individual’s needs,” said Dr. Thomas Janousek, Director of the Division of Behavioral Health at DHHS. “The recovery journey does not have to be walked alone. Access to support is available for all Nebraskans seeking compassionate help.”&nbsp;

The LRC is a The Joint Commission (TJC) accredited psychiatric hospital operated by DHHS in Lincoln, Nebraska, for adult patients who face mental health challenges.

The Mental Health Awareness Walk event is at the LRC Building 10 parking lot from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The walk will start in the parking lot of Building 10. We encourage all Nebraskans interested in raising awareness for mental health to attend. Information on community resources for recovery will also be available. &nbsp;

Resources to help individuals on their recovery journey are available:

By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760022122790.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – On Friday, Oct. 10 the Lincoln Regional Center (LRC) will host its 16th&nbsp;Annual Walk for Mental Health Awareness. The walk unites individuals with lived experience and care providers in accessing resources in the community. LRC strives to promote accurate information about mental health challenges, uphold individuals as people instead of a diagnosis, and promote mental healthcare and resources for all Nebraskans.&nbsp;“We walk every year because recovery is a journey of several small milestones leading toward positive change, finding&nbsp;purpose, and improving well-being. Healing is an odyssey of reflection, perseverance, and inner strength as every individual’s quest has different obstacles to overcome,”&nbsp;said Mitchell Bruening, LRC Hospital Administrator for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). “At LRC, we take pride in providing treatment to help individuals rebuild their lives.”This year's theme is “A Pace Odyssey.” The pace of mental health recovery is different for each person. Steps can be forward, backward, or sideways; regardless, no step is a waste. Each movement is a motion toward hope and healing.“Mental health or well-being is not a destination. It is an everyday quest toward deserving of support tailored to an individual’s needs,” said Dr. Thomas Janousek, Director of the Division of Behavioral Health at DHHS. “The recovery journey does not have to be walked alone. Access to support is available for all Nebraskans seeking compassionate help.”&nbsp;The LRC is a The Joint Commission (TJC) accredited psychiatric hospital operated by DHHS in Lincoln, Nebraska, for adult patients who face mental health challenges.The Mental Health Awareness Walk event is at the LRC Building 10 parking lot from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The walk will start in the parking lot of Building 10. We encourage all Nebraskans interested in raising awareness for mental health to attend. Information on community resources for recovery will also be available. &nbsp;Resources to help individuals on their recovery journey are available:<ul>
 <li>The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: call, text, or chat&nbsp;988.</li><li>Same Day Scheduling &amp; Walk-In Access services:&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpqnMDRrLWblbZqMJUxfWAj1N5IINMmA87t-2FnqUeeAhxJERiAEq5XEj93x6hCZ1Uzqw-3D-3DJTRJ_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyDFUXts0PPRvJVwOzrZydJLyKHOwrfm-2FVnUnD7DxPTfciEORkT5FIOfxBj-2FE5p80o00vlEm28gnwz6qZ3KICDKp4s5aPpvnWxW2GchNCNSVTdzVP7cgQ4SNYzyB-2FHV-2F-2FLAaSiBOSj47FUsVEwhAYYJ-2FjZIOoaRWL7YPXcXC-2F2j2yzsoUFpjD6S7H7wklnqYmVYuEBUPavqfQCKVoRfyH4bsAs6eecwZNJpYQKY07AfDZ2VyzwdgEIDub-2BN4kwuwQNrqHpz-2FZMZv5TyZfqkkuIZ7ebfsJmo94AGQtSvcnuJvvvdD0KmqGiz2jAc5DR7klTb8fEhlStUopqZIL01iar9A-3D-3D" target="_blank">dhhs.ne.gov/SameDay</a></li><li>Network of Care:&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpqpMIhR6BHfNDRTW-2FEZqqYLznqFJFeZT5uWUgUZQZto0Bv6FAibTaF-2BWRoVNfGMv2EerDLekrZJn50utDSKFVmg-3DLcON_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyDFUXts0PPRvJVwOzrZydJLyKHOwrfm-2FVnUnD7DxPTfciEORkT5FIOfxBj-2FE5p80o00vlEm28gnwz6qZ3KICDKp4s5aPpvnWxW2GchNCNSVTdzVP7cgQ4SNYzyB-2FHV-2F-2FLAaSiBOSj47FUsVEwhAYYJ-2FjZIOoaRWL7YPXcXC-2F2j2z-2BszFoNWZ2NNCoicbOzpVUv2bVEBgIp04o3Ui3N2eXJWtLa17FSg5-2F6CBODd3cWN64OpCu2FXCAWvS93X6WHf-2FR4kpmoud-2BNLXSpdrEsE-2B15M57RJ8wFD0NGL9nzW2Iu0GUuGInb3Z5q66lmFmE8pagkbQwZD1rd-2B4iLUPGJ-2FGVw-3D-3D" target="_blank">portal.networkofcare.org/NebraskaBehavioralHealth</a></li><li>Nebraska Family Helpline:&nbsp;(888) 866-8660&nbsp;</li><li>Rural Response Hotline, (800) 464-0258.</li><li>Your licensed healthcare professional, mental health provider, or student health center on campus.</li>
 </ul>

LRC 16th Annual Walk for Mental Health Awareness

In this week's episode of the Alliance Bulldog's Coach's Show, presented by Harris Sales in Alliance, Jake Schrantz talks with football head coach Tristin Stein and softball head coach Payten Gibson. They each give some insight and context regarding their respective seasons, as the fall sports seasons continue to draw closer to the finish line.

By Jake Schrantz<div><iframe title="Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show - 10/8-25 (Football & Softball)" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=j9tf2-1989e4d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>In this week's episode of the Alliance Bulldog's Coach's Show, presented by Harris Sales in Alliance, Jake Schrantz talks with football head coach Tristin Stein and softball head coach Payten Gibson. They each give some insight and context regarding their respective seasons, as the fall sports seasons continue to draw closer to the finish line.

Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show - 10/8/25 (Football & Softball)

Columbus, Neb. –&nbsp;Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) joins the nation in celebrating the 11th annual National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, which marks the progress of the industry by raising awareness of the benefits hydrogen energy and fuel cell technologies provide in reducing emissions, while also driving economic growth.

National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day is observed on Oct. 8 (10.08) in recognition of the atomic weight of hydrogen - 1.008.&nbsp; Hydrogen is already providing fuel, feedstock, and power to wide-ranging sectors of the U.S.&nbsp;

"Hydrogen is a technological solution available today that is flexible, domestically sourced and capable of being deployed across multiple sectors critical to our economy and national defense,” said NPPD Generation Research Senior Program Manager Roman Estrada. “NPPD continues to evaluate the cutting-edge advancements in the energy industry, including the usage of hydrogen for use in generation assets, both current and new, along other possible hydrogen use options. NPPD is proud to join our energy colleagues in commemorating National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day and celebrating the remarkable innovation and progress made in this industry.”

For more information on National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://fchea.org/our-work/communications/hydrogen-day-2025/*:*:text=On*20October*206*2C*20H.,the*20U.S.*20House*20of*20Representatives*20.__;I34lJSUlJSUlJSU!!JQ5RGA!TmisvlSJXs5ezfWZfblKL2Clm4ZPLcKOY3BVONPRqzQO8eF5c3XgmZUzr6JOoWIHklO5AfoVuSGs-9BwW5JE$" target="_blank">the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association website.&nbsp;[fchea.org]</a>

By Nebraska Public Power District<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565359934231.jpeg" alt="Nebraska Public Power District" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Public Power District</figcaption>
 </figure>Columbus, Neb. –&nbsp;Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) joins the nation in celebrating the 11th annual National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, which marks the progress of the industry by raising awareness of the benefits hydrogen energy and fuel cell technologies provide in reducing emissions, while also driving economic growth.National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day is observed on Oct. 8 (10.08) in recognition of the atomic weight of hydrogen - 1.008.&nbsp; Hydrogen is already providing fuel, feedstock, and power to wide-ranging sectors of the U.S.&nbsp;"Hydrogen is a technological solution available today that is flexible, domestically sourced and capable of being deployed across multiple sectors critical to our economy and national defense,” said NPPD Generation Research Senior Program Manager Roman Estrada. “NPPD continues to evaluate the cutting-edge advancements in the energy industry, including the usage of hydrogen for use in generation assets, both current and new, along other possible hydrogen use options. NPPD is proud to join our energy colleagues in commemorating National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day and celebrating the remarkable innovation and progress made in this industry.”For more information on National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://fchea.org/our-work/communications/hydrogen-day-2025/*:*:text=On*20October*206*2C*20H.,the*20U.S.*20House*20of*20Representatives*20.__;I34lJSUlJSUlJSU!!JQ5RGA!TmisvlSJXs5ezfWZfblKL2Clm4ZPLcKOY3BVONPRqzQO8eF5c3XgmZUzr6JOoWIHklO5AfoVuSGs-9BwW5JE$" target="_blank">the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association website.&nbsp;[fchea.org]</a>

NPPD Recognizes 11th Annual National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day

By&nbsp;Chabella Guzman, PREEC Communications

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center is home to several specialists researching crops and livestock. Research technologists and technicians assist specialists in maintaining their research, equipment, and projects.

Hugo Nunes has joined Dr. Xin Qiao’s program as Ag Research Technician III in the Irrigation and Biological System department.

“My main goal will be to support the team’s daily activities with responsibility, organization, and practical solutions,” Nunes said.

An agronomist, Nunes holds a master’s degree in plant production and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Brazil. He chose a master's and PhD in crop production to strengthen his technical and scientific background. He will use these skills to implement and manage research fields in the Irrigation and Biological Systems department. “I will ensure high-quality results and meet project deadlines.”

Nunes will be working with a variety of crops, specifically sugarbeets, dry beans, and corn, which he looks forward to learning more about.&nbsp;

Nunes, his wife, Natália, and son, Isac, will be putting down roots this year with their dog, Frida, in the Scottsbluff area. In his free time, Nunes enjoys running, walking, and training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

By&nbsp;Chabella Guzman, PREEC Communications<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759957389442.jpeg" alt="Hugo Nunes, Nebraska Extension Ag Research Technician III, Irrigation and Biological Systems Department" />
 <figcaption>Hugo Nunes, Nebraska Extension Ag Research Technician III, Irrigation and Biological Systems Department</figcaption>
 </figure>The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center is home to several specialists researching crops and livestock. Research technologists and technicians assist specialists in maintaining their research, equipment, and projects.Hugo Nunes has joined Dr. Xin Qiao’s program as Ag Research Technician III in the Irrigation and Biological System department.“My main goal will be to support the team’s daily activities with responsibility, organization, and practical solutions,” Nunes said.An agronomist, Nunes holds a master’s degree in plant production and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Brazil. He chose a master's and PhD in crop production to strengthen his technical and scientific background. He will use these skills to implement and manage research fields in the Irrigation and Biological Systems department. “I will ensure high-quality results and meet project deadlines.”Nunes will be working with a variety of crops, specifically sugarbeets, dry beans, and corn, which he looks forward to learning more about.&nbsp;Nunes, his wife, Natália, and son, Isac, will be putting down roots this year with their dog, Frida, in the Scottsbluff area. In his free time, Nunes enjoys running, walking, and training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

New Research Technician Looks Forward to Working with Panhandle Crops

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen says the state’s property tax crisis needs to be addressed in the upcoming 60-day legislative session. That discussion, plus his thoughts on eliminating the state’s inheritance tax were part of an interview for the Platte Institute’s&nbsp;Nebraskanomics&nbsp;podcast hosted by Jim Vokal.

In the most recent episode, Gov. Pillen emphasized the unsustainable burden of property taxes on Nebraska families, farmers, and businesses, and called for immediate action to deliver meaningful relief and foster long-term economic growth.

"Our property taxes are among the highest in the nation. This crisis is hurting every Nebraskan – from young people who dream of owning a home to seniors who fear losing theirs,” said Gov. Pillen.

Discussion during the podcast focused key reforms including reducing government spending, implementation of hard caps on local spending, reducing tax cuts and exemptions and broadening Nebraska’s sales tax base, so that spending is discretionary instead of mandated through property tax increases.

“For decades, the Legislature has allowed lobbyists and special interests to create loopholes and carveouts in our sales tax code that have shifted the burden of schools and local government to property taxpayers,” said the Governor. “To remain competitive, we must fix this imbalance, eliminate special tax carveouts for industries with the best lobbyists, and broaden our sales tax base.”

Gov. Pillen said having the state assume operational costs of K-12 public education would go a long way toward lifting the property tax burden. The approach is akin to the state assuming financial responsibility for community colleges.

Gov. Pillen said he’s once again asking state senators to partner with him in identifying viable solutions, rather than leaving the issue to be determined through a ballot initiative process.

The&nbsp;Nebraskanomics&nbsp;podcast episode is available on&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6JjfGiZZVVoL0iKz399ZwU?si=75e907e631904039&amp;nd=1&amp;dlsi=9765e6d4d5d94e73" target="_blank">Spotify</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/governor-jim-pillen-on-moving-nebraska-forward/id1545080575?i=1000728233122" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Governor's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757519941057.jpeg" alt="Gov. Pillen speaks at U.S. Grains Council Ethanol Buyers Event" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Pillen speaks at U.S. Grains Council Ethanol Buyers Event</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen says the state’s property tax crisis needs to be addressed in the upcoming 60-day legislative session. That discussion, plus his thoughts on eliminating the state’s inheritance tax were part of an interview for the Platte Institute’s&nbsp;Nebraskanomics&nbsp;podcast hosted by Jim Vokal.In the most recent episode, Gov. Pillen emphasized the unsustainable burden of property taxes on Nebraska families, farmers, and businesses, and called for immediate action to deliver meaningful relief and foster long-term economic growth."Our property taxes are among the highest in the nation. This crisis is hurting every Nebraskan – from young people who dream of owning a home to seniors who fear losing theirs,” said Gov. Pillen.Discussion during the podcast focused key reforms including reducing government spending, implementation of hard caps on local spending, reducing tax cuts and exemptions and broadening Nebraska’s sales tax base, so that spending is discretionary instead of mandated through property tax increases.“For decades, the Legislature has allowed lobbyists and special interests to create loopholes and carveouts in our sales tax code that have shifted the burden of schools and local government to property taxpayers,” said the Governor. “To remain competitive, we must fix this imbalance, eliminate special tax carveouts for industries with the best lobbyists, and broaden our sales tax base.”Gov. Pillen said having the state assume operational costs of K-12 public education would go a long way toward lifting the property tax burden. The approach is akin to the state assuming financial responsibility for community colleges.Gov. Pillen said he’s once again asking state senators to partner with him in identifying viable solutions, rather than leaving the issue to be determined through a ballot initiative process.The&nbsp;Nebraskanomics&nbsp;podcast episode is available on&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6JjfGiZZVVoL0iKz399ZwU?si=75e907e631904039&amp;nd=1&amp;dlsi=9765e6d4d5d94e73" target="_blank">Spotify</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/governor-jim-pillen-on-moving-nebraska-forward/id1545080575?i=1000728233122" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Highlights Need for Property Tax Reform on Podcast

A 22-year-old hiker was found safe Oct. 7 after spending the night in a canyon crevice on Cedar Canyon Wildlife Management Area south of Gering.

The man had been attempting to hike down the side of a bluff near dusk on Oct. 6 when he realized there was a large drop ahead and he couldn’t climb back up the way he’d come.

The next morning, he shared his coordinates with someone who reported them to Capt. Sean McKeehan, of Nebraska Game and Parks, at about Noon MT.

Game and Parks conservation officers, along with wildlife staff, quickly located the man. Gering Fire and Rescue used repelling equipment to send a harness down to the hiker, who was then lifted down to the bottom of the canyon.

Regional West Emergency Management Services examined the hiker, and he was released.

Nebraska State Patrol and Gering Police Department also assisted at the scene.

By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759942500426.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>A 22-year-old hiker was found safe Oct. 7 after spending the night in a canyon crevice on Cedar Canyon Wildlife Management Area south of Gering.The man had been attempting to hike down the side of a bluff near dusk on Oct. 6 when he realized there was a large drop ahead and he couldn’t climb back up the way he’d come.The next morning, he shared his coordinates with someone who reported them to Capt. Sean McKeehan, of Nebraska Game and Parks, at about Noon MT.Game and Parks conservation officers, along with wildlife staff, quickly located the man. Gering Fire and Rescue used repelling equipment to send a harness down to the hiker, who was then lifted down to the bottom of the canyon.Regional West Emergency Management Services examined the hiker, and he was released.Nebraska State Patrol and Gering Police Department also assisted at the scene.

Hiker Found After Night Trapped on Canyon Bluff

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

A few weeks ago Earl and I had the pleasure of cooking in our Dutch ovens at Dobby's Fall Festival. We've been participating in the Fall Festival for over thirty years! It's always fun to explain what we are doing and how Dutch ovens work. Kids come by to peel apples, and every year a few stay to help mix up great desserts like apple crisps, coffee cakes, and brownies. Old friends come by to say hello.

This year several people stopped to say how much they've enjoyed my Getting Ahead column, how much they've learned from it, how much it has challenged attitudes. I can't tell you how much I appreciated the kind comments. I had to admit to them that, after five and a half years, I've decided to stop writing.

February, 2020. I was an active member of the Alliance Poverty Task Force, and we had decided to bring a Bridges Out of Poverty program to Alliance. Tim Stadem, the chairman, asked a few of us to write weekly columns about poverty until June, when the program was scheduled. We interviewed people who lived in poverty. We talked to directors of agencies who served low-income people and those who lived in poverty. I wrote up our notes and submitted them to be published in the Alliance Times-Herald, the Hemingford Ledger, Panhandle Post, and in a group list-serve.

Then in March Covid hit. Businesses shut down, and so did our schools and churches. People weren't working or traveling or spending time with friends. We all knew people who were sick or who had died from this new virus. Many lost their jobs. We were scared, angry, confused.

Who had even heard of Zoom before Covid? Suddenly all our meetings were online. Schools set up online learning options. Families met regularly through their computers where they could see each other.

The government set up new programs to help businesses and households. Members of our Poverty Task Force, most of whom represented agencies, wrote lots of grants for the assistance being offered. Not only did the world change, but so did the column. My job was to explain these programs and how people could take advantage.

Community Table handed out three hundred meals a day. Families with children could drive to the school and take home meals. Boxes of produce, milk, and meat, once meant for restaurants, were given out. Companies could get grants to continue paying workers. Programs like SNAP expanded.

A new group of people was in situational (temporary) poverty. I had a&nbsp;Bridges Out of Poverty&nbsp;book that I pored over. Articles summarized key lessons from that book, explaining the challenges so many were suddenly facing.

Of course, we had to delay our first Bridges program for a year to June, 2021. Two hundred people came to the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center to learn about poverty and how we could help people find a way forward. Alliance and Scottsbluff have hosted four more Bridges programs since then. I've taken two additional classes through Educational Service Unit 13, where I serve on the Board. Several people with our agencies are now trained to offer Bridges programs.

The Getting Ahead column has primarily been about understanding poverty. I taught for years at Alliance High School, and some of you probably recognized lessons from Economics, Business Law, or Personal Finance classes. I spent hours every week researching topics, often related to current news, so I could understand what was happening and share my thoughts with you.

It is time for me to step back and act like I'm really retired. I have been invited to submit columns for publication any time I think I have something more to say, so you may hear from me again... Many thanks to those of you who have been loyal readers! I wish you all the best.&nbsp;

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759942279407.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>A few weeks ago Earl and I had the pleasure of cooking in our Dutch ovens at Dobby's Fall Festival. We've been participating in the Fall Festival for over thirty years! It's always fun to explain what we are doing and how Dutch ovens work. Kids come by to peel apples, and every year a few stay to help mix up great desserts like apple crisps, coffee cakes, and brownies. Old friends come by to say hello.This year several people stopped to say how much they've enjoyed my Getting Ahead column, how much they've learned from it, how much it has challenged attitudes. I can't tell you how much I appreciated the kind comments. I had to admit to them that, after five and a half years, I've decided to stop writing.February, 2020. I was an active member of the Alliance Poverty Task Force, and we had decided to bring a Bridges Out of Poverty program to Alliance. Tim Stadem, the chairman, asked a few of us to write weekly columns about poverty until June, when the program was scheduled. We interviewed people who lived in poverty. We talked to directors of agencies who served low-income people and those who lived in poverty. I wrote up our notes and submitted them to be published in the Alliance Times-Herald, the Hemingford Ledger, Panhandle Post, and in a group list-serve.Then in March Covid hit. Businesses shut down, and so did our schools and churches. People weren't working or traveling or spending time with friends. We all knew people who were sick or who had died from this new virus. Many lost their jobs. We were scared, angry, confused.Who had even heard of Zoom before Covid? Suddenly all our meetings were online. Schools set up online learning options. Families met regularly through their computers where they could see each other.The government set up new programs to help businesses and households. Members of our Poverty Task Force, most of whom represented agencies, wrote lots of grants for the assistance being offered. Not only did the world change, but so did the column. My job was to explain these programs and how people could take advantage.Community Table handed out three hundred meals a day. Families with children could drive to the school and take home meals. Boxes of produce, milk, and meat, once meant for restaurants, were given out. Companies could get grants to continue paying workers. Programs like SNAP expanded.A new group of people was in situational (temporary) poverty. I had a&nbsp;Bridges Out of Poverty&nbsp;book that I pored over. Articles summarized key lessons from that book, explaining the challenges so many were suddenly facing.Of course, we had to delay our first Bridges program for a year to June, 2021. Two hundred people came to the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center to learn about poverty and how we could help people find a way forward. Alliance and Scottsbluff have hosted four more Bridges programs since then. I've taken two additional classes through Educational Service Unit 13, where I serve on the Board. Several people with our agencies are now trained to offer Bridges programs.The Getting Ahead column has primarily been about understanding poverty. I taught for years at Alliance High School, and some of you probably recognized lessons from Economics, Business Law, or Personal Finance classes. I spent hours every week researching topics, often related to current news, so I could understand what was happening and share my thoughts with you.It is time for me to step back and act like I'm really retired. I have been invited to submit columns for publication any time I think I have something more to say, so you may hear from me again... Many thanks to those of you who have been loyal readers! I wish you all the best.&nbsp;

Getting Ahead: Time to Step Away

By Nebraska Indiana Child Welfare Coalition

Johnson is an enrolled member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and former NICWC board member&nbsp;.

Grace Johnson, an enrolled member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, is the new director of training and education for the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Coalition (NICWC).

Johnson joined NICWC on Sept. 25 and hit the ground running by supporting an advanced Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) training, developed and led by NICWC Tribal Liaison Kitty Washburn.

Johnson offered valuable insights throughout the training sessions that included site visits to the Oglala Sioux Tribe, Red Cloud Indian School, and the Indian Health Service Hospital in Pine Ridge, S.D., as well as a session for the Nebraska Department of&nbsp; Health and Human Services.

Johnson comes to NICWC after serving for nearly two years with the Nebraska Attorney General’s office as the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Tribal Liaison.

“We are thrilled to have Grace join our team,” said Deborah Dancer, executive director of NICWC.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Grace brings healing to every part of her work and delivers it with care and intention.&nbsp; We are looking forward to how she collectively leads training and education at NICWC.”

Dancer added, “Everyone who knows Grace speaks highly of her and as someone who has worked with her previously, I too can attest!  We thank her for her board service and warmly welcome her to this new role.”

Johnson grew up on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and has dedicated her life to working for the betterment of Native Americans.

"I am looking forward to working with the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Coalition,” Johnson said. “I feel the work NICWC does is incredibly important to helping Native children and families in the foster care system by maintaining ties to their culture and advocating for their rights.”

She is a Qualified Expert Witness for ICWA law and has worked as an outreach and family support worker in the foster care system.

Johnson is a dual-licensed mental health therapist and drug and alcohol counselor and previously served as the director of behavioral health and the Umon’hon Nation Alcohol and Drug Program at the Carl T. Curtis Health Education Center for the Omaha Tribe of&nbsp; Nebraska.

Johnson sits on the Omaha Mayor’s Native American Advisory Council. She owns her own business Red Nation Healing and is an adjunct professor at Nebraska Indian Community College.

“We are delighted to welcome Grace to our team,” said Liz Lovejoy Brown, NICWC Board President. “We are confident that her expertise will contribute significantly to the continued success of this organization.”&nbsp;

About the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Coalition

The vision of the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Coalition is to ensure that all Native American children are raised by loving Indian families, surrounded by the people, culture and heritage that they know best.

By Nebraska Indiana Child Welfare Coalition<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759942171096.jpeg" alt="Grace Johnson (courtesy NICWC)" />
 <figcaption>Grace Johnson (courtesy NICWC)</figcaption>
 </figure>Johnson is an enrolled member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and former NICWC board member&nbsp;.Grace Johnson, an enrolled member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, is the new director of training and education for the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Coalition (NICWC).Johnson joined NICWC on Sept. 25 and hit the ground running by supporting an advanced Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) training, developed and led by NICWC Tribal Liaison Kitty Washburn.Johnson offered valuable insights throughout the training sessions that included site visits to the Oglala Sioux Tribe, Red Cloud Indian School, and the Indian Health Service Hospital in Pine Ridge, S.D., as well as a session for the Nebraska Department of&nbsp; Health and Human Services.Johnson comes to NICWC after serving for nearly two years with the Nebraska Attorney General’s office as the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Tribal Liaison.“We are thrilled to have Grace join our team,” said Deborah Dancer, executive director of NICWC.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Grace brings healing to every part of her work and delivers it with care and intention.&nbsp; We are looking forward to how she collectively leads training and education at NICWC.”Dancer added, “Everyone who knows Grace speaks highly of her and as someone who has worked with her previously, I too can attest! We thank her for her board service and warmly welcome her to this new role.”Johnson grew up on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and has dedicated her life to working for the betterment of Native Americans."I am looking forward to working with the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Coalition,” Johnson said. “I feel the work NICWC does is incredibly important to helping Native children and families in the foster care system by maintaining ties to their culture and advocating for their rights.”She is a Qualified Expert Witness for ICWA law and has worked as an outreach and family support worker in the foster care system.Johnson is a dual-licensed mental health therapist and drug and alcohol counselor and previously served as the director of behavioral health and the Umon’hon Nation Alcohol and Drug Program at the Carl T. Curtis Health Education Center for the Omaha Tribe of&nbsp; Nebraska.Johnson sits on the Omaha Mayor’s Native American Advisory Council. She owns her own business Red Nation Healing and is an adjunct professor at Nebraska Indian Community College.“We are delighted to welcome Grace to our team,” said Liz Lovejoy Brown, NICWC Board President. “We are confident that her expertise will contribute significantly to the continued success of this organization.”&nbsp;About the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare CoalitionThe vision of the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Coalition is to ensure that all Native American children are raised by loving Indian families, surrounded by the people, culture and heritage that they know best.

Grace Johnson Joins NICWC as Training and Education Director

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Nightmare Before Halloween

ALLIANCE, Neb. - After over four years in his role helping develop the city of Alliance, Seth Sorenson has announced that he is resigning from his position as City Manager.

Sorenson is set to move back into an engineering role in the state of Texas. He used to be an engineer and city manager in Pecos, Texas, but is now taking on a new civil engineering role down in Waco, Texas. His engineering background, working on roads, bridges and other transportation improvements helped make him qualified to spearhead improvements in other avenues as a city manager.

Sorenson said his daily work revolved around overseeing budget and finance details for the city. Leading up to his resignation, Sorenson said there are still some very exciting developments for Alliance in the works. Some of the projects are still in the design-phase, but are still scheduled to continue after his departure from the city manager position.

One main project Sorenson was excited about was the development of a public safety center, which would essentially bring the Alliance Police Department and Alliance Fire Department together under one unified location. This project would include updates and improvements to the work areas for both the police and fire workers. Sorenson said these improvements had been needed for a while, and this new project would supply them.

Other future plans Sorenson mentioned included steps toward improving the city's electrical grid. The addition of more generators placed throughout the city would allow for more redundancy and improve the city of Alliance's ability to manage future storms. Lastly, Sorenson talked about some new aspects coming to the park areas in Alliance. A new playground that would feature a new swing set, along with other new additions, is set to improve Alliance's family-friendly park scene.

Sorenson displayed gratitude for the people of Alliance and gave a big thanks to city council. He mentioned that the council has provided large amounts of support for his vision of the city, and how the council will continue to do good things for the growth of Alliance.

By Jake Schrantz<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571965688810.png" alt="City of Alliance" />
 <figcaption>City of Alliance</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. - After over four years in his role helping develop the city of Alliance, Seth Sorenson has announced that he is resigning from his position as City Manager.Sorenson is set to move back into an engineering role in the state of Texas. He used to be an engineer and city manager in Pecos, Texas, but is now taking on a new civil engineering role down in Waco, Texas. His engineering background, working on roads, bridges and other transportation improvements helped make him qualified to spearhead improvements in other avenues as a city manager.Sorenson said his daily work revolved around overseeing budget and finance details for the city. Leading up to his resignation, Sorenson said there are still some very exciting developments for Alliance in the works. Some of the projects are still in the design-phase, but are still scheduled to continue after his departure from the city manager position.One main project Sorenson was excited about was the development of a public safety center, which would essentially bring the Alliance Police Department and Alliance Fire Department together under one unified location. This project would include updates and improvements to the work areas for both the police and fire workers. Sorenson said these improvements had been needed for a while, and this new project would supply them.Other future plans Sorenson mentioned included steps toward improving the city's electrical grid. The addition of more generators placed throughout the city would allow for more redundancy and improve the city of Alliance's ability to manage future storms. Lastly, Sorenson talked about some new aspects coming to the park areas in Alliance. A new playground that would feature a new swing set, along with other new additions, is set to improve Alliance's family-friendly park scene.Sorenson displayed gratitude for the people of Alliance and gave a big thanks to city council. He mentioned that the council has provided large amounts of support for his vision of the city, and how the council will continue to do good things for the growth of Alliance.

Seth Sorenson Resigns as Alliance City Manager

POST PODCAST: Seth Sorenson On Resigning As City Manager

POST PODCAST: Alliance Head Start Birthday Party

Chadron State piled up the points again and shut down Adams State 45-2, keeping CSC at the top of the RMAC. Coach Long breaks down the big plays and performances, and looks ahead to a dangerous NM Highlands squad Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666116284028.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Chadron State piled up the points again and shut down Adams State 45-2, keeping CSC at the top of the RMAC. Coach Long breaks down the big plays and performances, and looks ahead to a dangerous NM Highlands squad Saturday.<div><iframe title="Jay Long Show 10/7/25" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=em48q-1987f07-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🔊 PODCAST: Jay Long Show 10/7/25

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Doug Hohbein as Nebraska state fire marshal. Hohbein has been serving in an interim role since the resignation of Scott Cordes in early March. He has been with the agency since 1985. Hohbein’s appointment is effective immediately.

“Doug has served impressively while in the interim role and he is committed to ensuring public safety when it comes to issues like fire prevention, inspection, investigation, education, training, enforcement of codes and more,” said Gov. Pillen. “I appreciate his willingness to continue serving the state in this permanent position.”

Prior to his appointment as interim fire marshal, Hohbein was assistant fire marshal. He has a degree in fire protection technology from Southeast Community College.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Governor's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759872172792.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Doug Hohbein as Nebraska state fire marshal. Hohbein has been serving in an interim role since the resignation of Scott Cordes in early March. He has been with the agency since 1985. Hohbein’s appointment is effective immediately.“Doug has served impressively while in the interim role and he is committed to ensuring public safety when it comes to issues like fire prevention, inspection, investigation, education, training, enforcement of codes and more,” said Gov. Pillen. “I appreciate his willingness to continue serving the state in this permanent position.”Prior to his appointment as interim fire marshal, Hohbein was assistant fire marshal. He has a degree in fire protection technology from Southeast Community College.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Appoints Hohbein as State Fire Marshal

By Tyler Ellyson, editor, UNK News, 308.865.8529,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ellysontd@unk.edu" target="_blank">ellysontd@unk.edu</a>

KEARNEY, Neb. – Eight finalists for University of Nebraska at Kearney homecoming royalty were announced Monday during a pep rally on campus.

Queen candidates are Avery Laing of Omaha, Grace Maloley of Holdrege, Jenna Rauert of Wood River and Ally Sedlacek of O’Neill. King candidates are Jack Allen of Aurora, Josiah Gonzales of Scottsbluff, Ean Luebbe of Columbus and Sam Schroeder of Seward.

UNK’s homecoming king and queen will be crowned Thursday night following the lip-sync competition, which begins at 7 p.m. in the Health and Sports Center. They will also be recognized during the homecoming parade scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday in downtown Kearney and the home football game set for 2 p.m. Saturday at Cope Stadium.

The lip-sync competition and royalty crowning will be livestreamed at&nbsp;<a href="http://unk.edu/watch" target="_blank">unk.edu/watch</a>.

Homecoming royalty are selected by two rounds of student voting, with the final round occurring this week.

Queen candidates, and the organizations they represent, are:

A senior studying middle level education, Laing founded the Upsilon Eta Upsilon Honor Society for Black Excellence, which was recognized as the New Student Organization of the Year during the 2024 Applauding Excellence awards ceremony on campus. Laing is also part of the Intercultural Scholars and Leaders Community and Zeta Phi Beta sorority. She was named Emerging Leader of the Year and Student of the Year by the former Office of Intercultural Engagement and Leadership and was selected to serve on the chancellor’s search committee. Laing was Blue Gold Welcome coordinator for the 2025-26 academic year.

Maloley is a senior studying business administration with an emphasis in marketing and minors in strategic communication and journalism. She’s involved in the UNK Honors Program, Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, Ad/PR Club, Students in Mass Media and Order of Omega and Mortar Board honor societies.

A senior studying communication disorders, Rauert serves as education vice president for the Gamma Phi Beta sorority, president of Greeks Advocating for Healthy Lifestyles and UNK student liaison for the Nebraska Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She’s also involved in the UNK Honors Program, Chancellor’s Ambassadors, Kearney Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association and Order of Omega and Mortar Board honor societies. A dean’s list student with a 4.0 GPA, Rauert previously served as a Panhellenic recruitment leader, Loper Leader and undergraduate research assistant. She was part of the UNK volleyball team for one season.

Sedlacek is a senior studying political science with a minor in journalism. She serves as president of the Alpha Phi sorority and vice president of programming for the Order of Omega honor society. Sedlacek is also involved in the Kearney Law Opportunities Program, Pre-Law Society and The Antelope student newspaper, and she works as a graphic design intern at the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, supporting social media strategy, digital marketing campaigns and community outreach. As secretary of community relations for UNK Student Government, she played a key role in organizing The Big Event, a campuswide community service project that included about 400 students last spring.

King candidates, and the organizations they represent, are:

Allen is a junior studying geography and political science. He’s a member of the UNK wrestling team.

Gonzales is a senior studying business, marketing and information technology education. He’s co-head captain and yell leader for the UNK cheer team. Gonzales also serves as a student senator representing the College of Education, and he’s involved in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. He was a New Student Enrollment leader last summer.

Luebbe is a senior studying health sciences with a minor in biology. He’s served as a Chancellor’s Ambassador, New Student Enrollment leader, vice president of Greeks Advocating for Healthy Lifestyles and president of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. Luebbe has also been involved in undergraduate research and the Mortar Board and Order of Omega honor societies. He works as a certified pharmacy technician.

Schroeder is a senior studying political science with minors in public law and global peace and security. A member of the Kearney Law Opportunities Program, he’s served in UNK Student Government since his freshman year and is currently in his second term as student body president and student regent. He’s also served as president of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and been involved in the UNK Honors Program, Undergraduate Research Fellows, Catholic Newman Center, Pre-Law Society, Order of Omega honor society and NU Student Alliance.

By Tyler Ellyson, editor, UNK News, 308.865.8529,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ellysontd@unk.edu" target="_blank">ellysontd@unk.edu</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759850770051.jpeg" alt="Finalists for UNK homecoming royalty are, front row from left, Ally Sedlacek, Jenna Rauert, Grace Maloley and Avery Laing; back row from left, Jack Allen, Sam Schroeder, Josiah Gonzales and Ean Luebbe. (Photo by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications)" />
 <figcaption>Finalists for UNK homecoming royalty are, front row from left, Ally Sedlacek, Jenna Rauert, Grace Maloley and Avery Laing; back row from left, Jack Allen, Sam Schroeder, Josiah Gonzales and Ean Luebbe. (Photo by Erika Pritchard, UNK Communications)</figcaption>
 </figure>KEARNEY, Neb. – Eight finalists for University of Nebraska at Kearney homecoming royalty were announced Monday during a pep rally on campus.Queen candidates are Avery Laing of Omaha, Grace Maloley of Holdrege, Jenna Rauert of Wood River and Ally Sedlacek of O’Neill. King candidates are Jack Allen of Aurora, Josiah Gonzales of Scottsbluff, Ean Luebbe of Columbus and Sam Schroeder of Seward.UNK’s homecoming king and queen will be crowned Thursday night following the lip-sync competition, which begins at 7 p.m. in the Health and Sports Center. They will also be recognized during the homecoming parade scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday in downtown Kearney and the home football game set for 2 p.m. Saturday at Cope Stadium.The lip-sync competition and royalty crowning will be livestreamed at&nbsp;<a href="http://unk.edu/watch" target="_blank">unk.edu/watch</a>.Homecoming royalty are selected by two rounds of student voting, with the final round occurring this week.Queen candidates, and the organizations they represent, are:Avery Laing, Upsilon Eta UpsilonA senior studying middle level education, Laing founded the Upsilon Eta Upsilon Honor Society for Black Excellence, which was recognized as the New Student Organization of the Year during the 2024 Applauding Excellence awards ceremony on campus. Laing is also part of the Intercultural Scholars and Leaders Community and Zeta Phi Beta sorority. She was named Emerging Leader of the Year and Student of the Year by the former Office of Intercultural Engagement and Leadership and was selected to serve on the chancellor’s search committee. Laing was Blue Gold Welcome coordinator for the 2025-26 academic year.Grace Maloley, Alpha Omicron PiMaloley is a senior studying business administration with an emphasis in marketing and minors in strategic communication and journalism. She’s involved in the UNK Honors Program, Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, Ad/PR Club, Students in Mass Media and Order of Omega and Mortar Board honor societies.Jenna Rauert, Gamma Phi BetaA senior studying communication disorders, Rauert serves as education vice president for the Gamma Phi Beta sorority, president of Greeks Advocating for Healthy Lifestyles and UNK student liaison for the Nebraska Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She’s also involved in the UNK Honors Program, Chancellor’s Ambassadors, Kearney Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association and Order of Omega and Mortar Board honor societies. A dean’s list student with a 4.0 GPA, Rauert previously served as a Panhellenic recruitment leader, Loper Leader and undergraduate research assistant. She was part of the UNK volleyball team for one season.Ally Sedlacek, Alpha PhiSedlacek is a senior studying political science with a minor in journalism. She serves as president of the Alpha Phi sorority and vice president of programming for the Order of Omega honor society. Sedlacek is also involved in the Kearney Law Opportunities Program, Pre-Law Society and The Antelope student newspaper, and she works as a graphic design intern at the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, supporting social media strategy, digital marketing campaigns and community outreach. As secretary of community relations for UNK Student Government, she played a key role in organizing The Big Event, a campuswide community service project that included about 400 students last spring.King candidates, and the organizations they represent, are:Jack Allen, UNK wrestlingAllen is a junior studying geography and political science. He’s a member of the UNK wrestling team.Josiah Gonzales, UNK cheerleadingGonzales is a senior studying business, marketing and information technology education. He’s co-head captain and yell leader for the UNK cheer team. Gonzales also serves as a student senator representing the College of Education, and he’s involved in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. He was a New Student Enrollment leader last summer.Ean Luebbe, Sigma Phi EpsilonLuebbe is a senior studying health sciences with a minor in biology. He’s served as a Chancellor’s Ambassador, New Student Enrollment leader, vice president of Greeks Advocating for Healthy Lifestyles and president of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. Luebbe has also been involved in undergraduate research and the Mortar Board and Order of Omega honor societies. He works as a certified pharmacy technician.Sam Schroeder, Pi Kappa AlphaSchroeder is a senior studying political science with minors in public law and global peace and security. A member of the Kearney Law Opportunities Program, he’s served in UNK Student Government since his freshman year and is currently in his second term as student body president and student regent. He’s also served as president of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and been involved in the UNK Honors Program, Undergraduate Research Fellows, Catholic Newman Center, Pre-Law Society, Order of Omega honor society and NU Student Alliance.

Eight Students Selected as Finalists for UNK Homecoming Royalty

Nominations for the Discover Northwest Nebraska annual tourism industry awards are now open.

“We want to recognize the people and places that contribute to the regional tourism industry,” said Discover Northwest Nebraska Director Kerri Rempp. “In addition to our traditional three award categories, we have launched a new award category to recognize events that take place in the region.”

-Frontline Employee of the Year – This award recognizes frontline staff for their customer service efforts to make visitors feel welcome to the region and their knowledge of the area.

-Volunteer of the Year – Volunteers are critical to the success of many of our attractions and events, and this award recognizes a volunteer who contributes significantly to a tourism attraction or event.

-Business/Attraction of the Year – This award recognizes either a business or attraction that plays a role in the visitor industry of Northwest Nebraska.

-Event of the Year – This new award recognizes an event that takes place in Northwest Nebraska, attracting visitors to the region.

Anyone can nominate an individual, business or event for the awards, which are presented at the Treasure Chest of the Northwest, an annual industry event that takes place each spring. Nominations can be submitted online at https://discovernwnebraska.com/industry-awards/ and must be completed by March 1, 2026. Once applications close, a selection committee will review the nominations and choose the honorees.

All nominees will be invited to attend and recognized at the Treasure Chest of the Northwest event, scheduled for April 16, 2026, at the Dawes County Fairgrounds.

By Discover Northwest Nebraska<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632150976873.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Nominations for the Discover Northwest Nebraska annual tourism industry awards are now open.“We want to recognize the people and places that contribute to the regional tourism industry,” said Discover Northwest Nebraska Director Kerri Rempp. “In addition to our traditional three award categories, we have launched a new award category to recognize events that take place in the region.”The categories are:-Frontline Employee of the Year – This award recognizes frontline staff for their customer service efforts to make visitors feel welcome to the region and their knowledge of the area.-Volunteer of the Year – Volunteers are critical to the success of many of our attractions and events, and this award recognizes a volunteer who contributes significantly to a tourism attraction or event.-Business/Attraction of the Year – This award recognizes either a business or attraction that plays a role in the visitor industry of Northwest Nebraska.-Event of the Year – This new award recognizes an event that takes place in Northwest Nebraska, attracting visitors to the region.Anyone can nominate an individual, business or event for the awards, which are presented at the Treasure Chest of the Northwest, an annual industry event that takes place each spring. Nominations can be submitted online at https://discovernwnebraska.com/industry-awards/ and must be completed by March 1, 2026. Once applications close, a selection committee will review the nominations and choose the honorees.All nominees will be invited to attend and recognized at the Treasure Chest of the Northwest event, scheduled for April 16, 2026, at the Dawes County Fairgrounds.

Local Tourism Industry Award Nominations Open at Discover Northwest Nebraska

69th Annual Cancer Card Party Set for Nov. 8 in Alliance

-Isaiah Martinez and Aaliaha Escamilla Garza

-Theodore Arend Theart and Jennifer Marie Theart

-Avin Xade Rising Sun and Krissy Mariy-Jane Collins

-Aliyah Ahn Rabago and Tristan Thomas Rolstad

Marriages:&nbsp;-Isaiah Martinez and Aaliaha Escamilla Garza-Theodore Arend Theart and Jennifer Marie Theart-Avin Xade Rising Sun and Krissy Mariy-Jane Collins-Aliyah Ahn Rabago and Tristan Thomas RolstadDivorces:-Lee and Christine Mazanec-Molly and Simon Gous-Travis and Brittany Myers-Aleeanna and Brandon Connolly

Marriages, divorces September 2025

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.

-John T Beechamp, Possess controlled substance (Class 4 Felony), Possess controlled substance (Class 4 Felony), Drive under susp/before reinstated-state (Class 3 Misdemeanor)

-Toofeathers Q Bueno IV, (Poss. Child Sexual Abuse Material/Minor (Class 2A Felony);&nbsp;(Poss. Child Sexual Abuse Material/Minor (Class 2A Felony);&nbsp;(Poss. Child Sexual Abuse Material/Minor (Class 2A Felony);&nbsp;(Poss. Child Sexual Abuse Material/Minor (Class 2A Felony);&nbsp;(Poss. Child Sexual Abuse Material/Minor (Class 2A Felony)

-Andrew Blevins, Use firearm to commit a felony (Class 1C Felony), Unlawful/intentional dischg. of firearm (Class 1D Felony), DV Assault-2nd/Bodily Injury/Danr. Inst (Class 3A Felony); Terroristic threats (Class 3A Felony)

-Augustine Gomez Jr,&nbsp;Poss Cont Sub, Poss w/ intent, Paraphernalia, No Drug Tax Stamp, expired insur., brake light out, Poss Marijuana, animal bite

-Bryan Ladeaux,&nbsp;Open Container, Carrying firearm/dest&nbsp;dvc/dangerous misd.

-Susan Gibbons, PWITD, Poss drug para, Tampering w/ evidence, Child Abuse, Obstruction, No drug tax, stamp

-Samantha Mendoza,&nbsp;Theft of a motor vehciel, DUS, Speeding

-Dusty Rank,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para,&nbsp;Tempering w/ evidence

-Heath Solis,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para

-Isabel Gomez,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para

-Dausen Hoof,&nbsp;Assault on officer using a motor vehicle,&nbsp;x2, Use of a deadly weapon to commit a&nbsp;(F), Flight to avoid, Willful reckless&nbsp;Obsturcitng, Poss cont sub, trespass&nbsp;2nd degree, Traffic X3,&nbsp;*Colorado Warrant- 2nd degree assault

-Amanda Graves, Possess controlled substance (Class 4 Felony)

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.Box Butte Co:-John T Beechamp, Possess controlled substance (Class 4 Felony), Possess controlled substance (Class 4 Felony), Drive under susp/before reinstated-state (Class 3 Misdemeanor)-Toofeathers Q Bueno IV, (Poss. Child Sexual Abuse Material/Minor (Class 2A Felony);&nbsp;(Poss. Child Sexual Abuse Material/Minor (Class 2A Felony);&nbsp;(Poss. Child Sexual Abuse Material/Minor (Class 2A Felony);&nbsp;(Poss. Child Sexual Abuse Material/Minor (Class 2A Felony);&nbsp;(Poss. Child Sexual Abuse Material/Minor (Class 2A Felony)-Andrew Blevins, Use firearm to commit a felony (Class 1C Felony), Unlawful/intentional dischg. of firearm (Class 1D Felony), DV Assault-2nd/Bodily Injury/Danr. Inst (Class 3A Felony); Terroristic threats (Class 3A Felony)Scotts Bluff Co:-Augustine Gomez Jr,&nbsp;Poss Cont Sub, Poss w/ intent, Paraphernalia, No Drug Tax Stamp, expired insur., brake light out, Poss Marijuana, animal bite-Bryan Ladeaux,&nbsp;Open Container, Carrying firearm/dest&nbsp;dvc/dangerous misd.-Susan Gibbons, PWITD, Poss drug para, Tampering w/ evidence, Child Abuse, Obstruction, No drug tax, stamp-Kendra Horrocks,&nbsp;Poss cont sub-Samantha Mendoza,&nbsp;Theft of a motor vehciel, DUS, Speeding-Dusty Rank,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para,&nbsp;Tempering w/ evidence-Heath Solis,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para-Isabel Gomez,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para-Dausen Hoof,&nbsp;Assault on officer using a motor vehicle,&nbsp;x2, Use of a deadly weapon to commit a&nbsp;(F), Flight to avoid, Willful reckless&nbsp;Obsturcitng, Poss cont sub, trespass&nbsp;2nd degree, Traffic X3,&nbsp;*Colorado Warrant- 2nd degree assaultDawes Co:&nbsp;-Amanda Graves, Possess controlled substance (Class 4 Felony)

Panhandle police activity, Sept. 29 - Oct. 6

By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATOR

CHADRON, Neb. – Chadron State College alumnus Morse Clary’s retrospective show will be in the Main Gallery of Memorial Hall, Monday through Oct. 31. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The show is free and open to the public. His widow, Cathy Clary, also a CSC alum, is lending more than 50 of Clary’s sculptures to exhibit, including a piece from 1962, when Clary was the first to present a senior art student solo show.

On Oct. 22 at 3 p.m. in Memorial Hall, Room 232, Cathy Clary will speak about her late husband’s art and share a short video about him. In addition to being a professional artist for more than 50 years, Clary spent 32 years as an art educator at colleges in Nebraska, Ohio, Idaho, and Washington.

The first sculpted book Clary said he saw was created by Philip McCracken. In a YouTube video before his death, he explained that in 1989, he thought he would make only one book sculpture.

“However, I found the possibilities were endless. I have a great love and respect for books as embodiments and conveyors of ideas, stories, information, and other potentials. I also enjoy their tactile qualities of texture, weight, and substance,” Clary said. “Wood is my material of choice. It’s part of our culture. It’s one of the few materials that was alive at one time, like we are. It’s warm to the touch. It has a variety of beautiful colors. I love wood for all those reasons and more.”

His sculpted books feature inlaid bits of found objects, including shells, rocks, and other organic materials.

In the video, he challenged viewers of his work to approach each piece as if it were written in an unknown language and use their own frame of reference to interpret the story.

“I always make the books as though they were being held open and being read,” Clary said in the video. “I’ve always loved books. For what they contain, but just as forms in themselves.”&nbsp;

His lifelong love of nature, reflected in his art, started with his boyhood explorations of the area around the North Platte River. In his artist’s statement, he said it was his aim as a teacher to encourage his students to be good observers of nature.

“The natural environment has always informed, amazed, and inspired me with its great mysteries and beautiful solutions to problems of form, color, texture, and line," Clary said.

By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATOR<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759784620103.jpeg" alt="courtesy CSC" />
 <figcaption>courtesy CSC</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON, Neb. – Chadron State College alumnus Morse Clary’s retrospective show will be in the Main Gallery of Memorial Hall, Monday through Oct. 31. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The show is free and open to the public. His widow, Cathy Clary, also a CSC alum, is lending more than 50 of Clary’s sculptures to exhibit, including a piece from 1962, when Clary was the first to present a senior art student solo show.On Oct. 22 at 3 p.m. in Memorial Hall, Room 232, Cathy Clary will speak about her late husband’s art and share a short video about him. In addition to being a professional artist for more than 50 years, Clary spent 32 years as an art educator at colleges in Nebraska, Ohio, Idaho, and Washington.The first sculpted book Clary said he saw was created by Philip McCracken. In a YouTube video before his death, he explained that in 1989, he thought he would make only one book sculpture.“However, I found the possibilities were endless. I have a great love and respect for books as embodiments and conveyors of ideas, stories, information, and other potentials. I also enjoy their tactile qualities of texture, weight, and substance,” Clary said. “Wood is my material of choice. It’s part of our culture. It’s one of the few materials that was alive at one time, like we are. It’s warm to the touch. It has a variety of beautiful colors. I love wood for all those reasons and more.”His sculpted books feature inlaid bits of found objects, including shells, rocks, and other organic materials.In the video, he challenged viewers of his work to approach each piece as if it were written in an unknown language and use their own frame of reference to interpret the story.“I always make the books as though they were being held open and being read,” Clary said in the video. “I’ve always loved books. For what they contain, but just as forms in themselves.”&nbsp;His lifelong love of nature, reflected in his art, started with his boyhood explorations of the area around the North Platte River. In his artist’s statement, he said it was his aim as a teacher to encourage his students to be good observers of nature.“The natural environment has always informed, amazed, and inspired me with its great mysteries and beautiful solutions to problems of form, color, texture, and line," Clary said.

Alumnus Art Show Opens Monday at CSC

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen and First Lady Suzanne are extending their thoughts and prayers to the Omaha police officer who was shot in the line of duty early this morning. The injured officer has not been identified but is reported to be in stable condition and is expected to survive. &nbsp;At a news conference this morning, Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said the injured man was a 15-year veteran of the department.

Gov. Pillen spoke with Omaha Mayor John Ewing following this morning’s shooting, offering his own personal support and pledging state’s support to the City of Omaha.

“We thank God that this officer is still with us and in stable condition,” said Gov. Pillen. &nbsp;“Our thoughts are with him and his family and with every Nebraska peace officer, sheriff’s deputy and state trooper – the ones who put it all on the line every day to secure our communities. The first obligation of government is to keep the public safe, and the first obligation of elected leaders is to stand behind the men and women who do that work.”&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;– Governor Jim Pillen and First Lady Suzanne are extending their thoughts and prayers to the Omaha police officer who was shot in the line of duty early this morning. The injured officer has not been identified but is reported to be in stable condition and is expected to survive. &nbsp;At a news conference this morning, Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said the injured man was a 15-year veteran of the department.Gov. Pillen spoke with Omaha Mayor John Ewing following this morning’s shooting, offering his own personal support and pledging state’s support to the City of Omaha.“We thank God that this officer is still with us and in stable condition,” said Gov. Pillen. &nbsp;“Our thoughts are with him and his family and with every Nebraska peace officer, sheriff’s deputy and state trooper – the ones who put it all on the line every day to secure our communities. The first obligation of government is to keep the public safe, and the first obligation of elected leaders is to stand behind the men and women who do that work.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Speaks to Omaha Mayor, Issues Statement Supporting Law Enforcement

LINCOLN, Neb. –&nbsp;The 2025 Lincoln Corporate Games Canned Food Drive concluded with impressive results, as 32 companies donated a total of 18,569 pounds of food to support the&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Z5cSpfi4lIDUp7f7L8X1_jq2ugn48Sy9YPzcuxBWunflrGjL3KxQNeTZS1FA1SdDluuUAwsbFZ8qnc3A4kp9YO83xZMvUDiuIyUwSB99thz22I9vFflullTyDBMPYVPhF5YkfSzaXdPH1Wi4NP_XlH8obDnOzSIE&amp;c=TATO1a8JUU9oeVjHuRdOpb0dtcYKRWlXOAe14RzDgyeF8d-5eSK3kw==&amp;ch=BjFD_eD0Xp0AhFH3GwzfoYOOGh6hViXr6SAprAgVCxVzbL3j4uFATg==" target="_blank">Food Bank of Lincoln</a>&nbsp;in their mission to alleviate hunger in Lincoln and surrounding communities. These generous contributions — nearly 2,000 pounds more than last year — will provide an estimated 14,100 meals for families across Southeast Nebraska.

“We are thrilled with the overwhelming response from our Lincoln Corporate Games participants," said Dave Mlnarik, President of the Nebraska Sports Council. "The generosity of these companies reflects the strong community spirit in Lincoln, and with Omaha Steaks’ matching pledge, the impact of these donations is even greater. Thank you to all who participated!”

﻿Jason Pauling, Corporate Partnerships Director of the Food Bank of Lincoln, also shared his gratitude: "Thank you to the Nebraska Sports Council, Omaha Steaks, and the Lincoln business community for coming together in a big way to help so many people. These donations will directly help in our mission to alleviate hunger&nbsp;in&nbsp;Southeast Nebraska."

Omaha Steaks once again demonstrated their commitment to fighting hunger by matching every pound donated, up to $10,000. This generous match amplifies the impact of the drive, doubling the support for the Food Bank of Lincoln and helping even more families in need.

For more information on the Lincoln Corporate Games, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Z5cSpfi4lIDUp7f7L8X1_jq2ugn48Sy9YPzcuxBWunflrGjL3KxQNQn6Z2kHrJ12ZABR351lXW0Q8Y8lYNJOo9_L3PQw2T2-BKyMBicAPgNe3IAPLbdRq-dTpoOL9g_h8CEYrLkpcRFK1IapzGI-x-9u3gnCOUYVvZe_R6HvoOw=&amp;c=TATO1a8JUU9oeVjHuRdOpb0dtcYKRWlXOAe14RzDgyeF8d-5eSK3kw==&amp;ch=BjFD_eD0Xp0AhFH3GwzfoYOOGh6hViXr6SAprAgVCxVzbL3j4uFATg==" target="_blank">LincolnCorporateGames.com</a>.

By Lincoln Corporate Games<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759784426130.png" alt="Lincoln Corporate Games" />
 <figcaption>Lincoln Corporate Games</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. –&nbsp;The 2025 Lincoln Corporate Games Canned Food Drive concluded with impressive results, as 32 companies donated a total of 18,569 pounds of food to support the&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Z5cSpfi4lIDUp7f7L8X1_jq2ugn48Sy9YPzcuxBWunflrGjL3KxQNeTZS1FA1SdDluuUAwsbFZ8qnc3A4kp9YO83xZMvUDiuIyUwSB99thz22I9vFflullTyDBMPYVPhF5YkfSzaXdPH1Wi4NP_XlH8obDnOzSIE&amp;c=TATO1a8JUU9oeVjHuRdOpb0dtcYKRWlXOAe14RzDgyeF8d-5eSK3kw==&amp;ch=BjFD_eD0Xp0AhFH3GwzfoYOOGh6hViXr6SAprAgVCxVzbL3j4uFATg==" target="_blank">Food Bank of Lincoln</a>&nbsp;in their mission to alleviate hunger in Lincoln and surrounding communities. These generous contributions — nearly 2,000 pounds more than last year — will provide an estimated 14,100 meals for families across Southeast Nebraska.Division Winners:<ul>
 <li>Red Division: Reliant Transportation – 778 lbs</li><li>Orange Division: Norland International/ABE Equipment – 2,494 lbs</li><li>Blue Division: Midlands Packaging Corporation – 1,216 lbs</li><li>Green Division: Zoetis – 716 lbs</li>
 </ul>“We are thrilled with the overwhelming response from our Lincoln Corporate Games participants," said Dave Mlnarik, President of the Nebraska Sports Council. "The generosity of these companies reflects the strong community spirit in Lincoln, and with Omaha Steaks’ matching pledge, the impact of these donations is even greater. Thank you to all who participated!”﻿Jason Pauling, Corporate Partnerships Director of the Food Bank of Lincoln, also shared his gratitude: "Thank you to the Nebraska Sports Council, Omaha Steaks, and the Lincoln business community for coming together in a big way to help so many people. These donations will directly help in our mission to alleviate hunger&nbsp;in&nbsp;Southeast Nebraska."Omaha Steaks once again demonstrated their commitment to fighting hunger by matching every pound donated, up to $10,000. This generous match amplifies the impact of the drive, doubling the support for the Food Bank of Lincoln and helping even more families in need.For more information on the Lincoln Corporate Games, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Z5cSpfi4lIDUp7f7L8X1_jq2ugn48Sy9YPzcuxBWunflrGjL3KxQNQn6Z2kHrJ12ZABR351lXW0Q8Y8lYNJOo9_L3PQw2T2-BKyMBicAPgNe3IAPLbdRq-dTpoOL9g_h8CEYrLkpcRFK1IapzGI-x-9u3gnCOUYVvZe_R6HvoOw=&amp;c=TATO1a8JUU9oeVjHuRdOpb0dtcYKRWlXOAe14RzDgyeF8d-5eSK3kw==&amp;ch=BjFD_eD0Xp0AhFH3GwzfoYOOGh6hViXr6SAprAgVCxVzbL3j4uFATg==" target="_blank">LincolnCorporateGames.com</a>.

Lincoln Corporate Games Canned Food Drive Collects 18,569 Pounds of Food

Leyton High School Hosting an Upcoming 'Haunted High School' Event

&nbsp; By&nbsp;SHELBY WESTINGHOUSE, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON, Neb. – Chadron State College’s annual Family Day Weekend returns on Friday, Oct. 10 and concludes Sunday, Oct. 12. The weekend is packed full of fun and nostalgic activities for parents, siblings and friends of CSC students. Alumni awards will also be presented during the weekend.&nbsp;

On Friday, Oct. 10, guests will reminisce about the past with Then and Now Tours of campus. Those interested will meet at the Lindeken Clock Tower between 4 and 6 p.m. Beginning at 5 p.m., a Home Run Derby will take place at the softball fields. Friday night will conclude with dinner with the students in the Dining Hall from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by a movie night in the Chicoine Center at 8 p.m.

Saturday’s activities begin at 9 a.m. with a variety of events planned for different interests. The morning schedule will include a social in the Rangeland complex, open rodeo practice, and a planetarium show. The Eagles’ football team will take on New Mexico Highlands at 1 p.m. on Elliott Field. Fans are invited to participate in a tailgate party before the game.

Halftime will feature presentations of the Family Tree, Distinguished Young Alumni and Distinguished Alumni awards. This year’s honorees include the Owens family, the Marshall family, Loni Watson, Dr. Jake Zitterkopf and Lisa Moravec.

To close out the weekend, an Eagle Fun Walk will take place outside of the Chicoine Center on Sunday at 9 a.m. For details, see&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/2025/9/23/2025-family-day.aspx" target="_blank">https://chadroneagles.com/sports/2025/9/23/2025-family-day.aspx</a>.

&nbsp; By&nbsp;SHELBY WESTINGHOUSE, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759768209176.jpeg" alt="A pollinator lands on a zinnia west of Burkhiser on the Chadron State College campus Sept. 30, 2025. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>A pollinator lands on a zinnia west of Burkhiser on the Chadron State College campus Sept. 30, 2025. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON, Neb. – Chadron State College’s annual Family Day Weekend returns on Friday, Oct. 10 and concludes Sunday, Oct. 12. The weekend is packed full of fun and nostalgic activities for parents, siblings and friends of CSC students. Alumni awards will also be presented during the weekend.&nbsp;On Friday, Oct. 10, guests will reminisce about the past with Then and Now Tours of campus. Those interested will meet at the Lindeken Clock Tower between 4 and 6 p.m. Beginning at 5 p.m., a Home Run Derby will take place at the softball fields. Friday night will conclude with dinner with the students in the Dining Hall from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by a movie night in the Chicoine Center at 8 p.m.Saturday’s activities begin at 9 a.m. with a variety of events planned for different interests. The morning schedule will include a social in the Rangeland complex, open rodeo practice, and a planetarium show. The Eagles’ football team will take on New Mexico Highlands at 1 p.m. on Elliott Field. Fans are invited to participate in a tailgate party before the game.Halftime will feature presentations of the Family Tree, Distinguished Young Alumni and Distinguished Alumni awards. This year’s honorees include the Owens family, the Marshall family, Loni Watson, Dr. Jake Zitterkopf and Lisa Moravec.To close out the weekend, an Eagle Fun Walk will take place outside of the Chicoine Center on Sunday at 9 a.m. For details, see&nbsp;<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/2025/9/23/2025-family-day.aspx" target="_blank">https://chadroneagles.com/sports/2025/9/23/2025-family-day.aspx</a>.