RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — A Pennington County judge has dismissed two defamation lawsuits filed by a Rapid City real estate investor who claimed his sister and the mother of his child both made false statements about him on social media. 

A judge recently dismissed the lawsuits with prejudice, meaning the same claims cannot be refiled. 

According to the original complaint, Josiah LaFrance alleged that both Natalie LaFrance-Slack and Karli Shama made false statements with malice to damage his personal and professional reputations on social media. 

Josiah LaFrance was sentenced 180 days in jail and five years of probation for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for a domestic assault charge in October.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — A Pennington County judge has dismissed two defamation lawsuits filed by a Rapid City real estate investor who claimed his sister and the mother of his child both made false statements about him on social media. A judge recently dismissed the lawsuits with prejudice, meaning the same claims cannot be refiled. According to the original complaint, Josiah LaFrance alleged that both Natalie LaFrance-Slack and Karli Shama made false statements with malice to damage his personal and professional reputations on social media. Josiah LaFrance was sentenced 180 days in jail and five years of probation for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for a domestic assault charge in October.

2 defamation lawsuits filed by Rapid City man dismissed

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Republican gubernatorial hopeful Jim Pillen has scored a big endorsement from the Nebraska Farm Bureau, the state’s largest farm group and an influential voice among farmers. 

Leaders of the farm-advocacy group say Pillen was the “overwhelming consensus” choice among their county members throughout Nebraska who made the decision. 

Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue says Pillen is a fiscal conservative and a good listener with a background in agriculture. 

Pillen is a veterinarian and the owner of Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics, and he was raised on a farm in Platte County. 

Pillen is locked in a competitive GOP primary with Charles Herbster, a Falls City agribusiness executive and a close ally of former President Donald Trump.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643736403572.png" alt="Pillen" />
 <figcaption>Pillen</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Republican gubernatorial hopeful Jim Pillen has scored a big endorsement from the Nebraska Farm Bureau, the state’s largest farm group and an influential voice among farmers. Leaders of the farm-advocacy group say Pillen was the “overwhelming consensus” choice among their county members throughout Nebraska who made the decision. Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue says Pillen is a fiscal conservative and a good listener with a background in agriculture. Pillen is a veterinarian and the owner of Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics, and he was raised on a farm in Platte County. Pillen is locked in a competitive GOP primary with Charles Herbster, a Falls City agribusiness executive and a close ally of former President Donald Trump.

Nebraska Farm Bureau backs Republican Jim Pillen for gov

The Box Butte County Fair Board has announced the headlining act for the 2022 Box Butte County Fair.&nbsp;

Ian Munsick of Sheridan, Wyoming will be performing on Aug. 13.&nbsp;

This year's fair theme is "Rolling Through in '22".&nbsp;

"I didn't know anything about him, but the more I find out about him, the more excited I get," Box Butte County Fair Board President Ron Henzler said. "Come to the fair and listen to him. I understand he does a heck of a show."

Henzler reminds citizens attending the fair to pay attention to ticket sales.&nbsp;

"Early bird pricing is going to be cheaper," Henzler said. "And then after June 1, it's going to go up. So, grab them while you can."

Tickets will be for sale starting March 1.&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Box Butte County Fair Board has announced the headlining act for the 2022 Box Butte County Fair.&nbsp;Ian Munsick of Sheridan, Wyoming will be performing on Aug. 13.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643734998746.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This year's fair theme is "Rolling Through in '22".&nbsp;"I didn't know anything about him, but the more I find out about him, the more excited I get," Box Butte County Fair Board President Ron Henzler said. "Come to the fair and listen to him. I understand he does a heck of a show."Henzler reminds citizens attending the fair to pay attention to ticket sales.&nbsp;"Early bird pricing is going to be cheaper," Henzler said. "And then after June 1, it's going to go up. So, grab them while you can."Tickets will be for sale starting March 1.&nbsp;

Ian Munsick to headline 2022 Box Butte County Fair in Hemingford

Karen Benzel discusses progress on United Way of Western Nebraska's annual fundraising goals.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nppjm-1195489-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Karen Benzel discusses progress on United Way of Western Nebraska's annual fundraising goals.

POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — A major winter storm was expected to affect a huge swath of the United States, with heavy snow starting in the Rockies and freezing rain as far south as Texas before it drops snow and ice on the Midwest. 

The forecast comes nearly a year after a catastrophic winter storm devastated Texas’ power grid, causing hundreds of deaths. 

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott planned a briefing Tuesday on the state’s readiness. 

Winter storm watches and warnings covered a wide swath of the country from El Paso, Texas, through the Midwest and parts of the Northeast to Burlington, Vermont. 

During the multiday storm, some areas may see a mix of rain and freezing rain before it changes to snow.

 More than a foot of snow is forecast in places.

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — A major winter storm was expected to affect a huge swath of the United States, with heavy snow starting in the Rockies and freezing rain as far south as Texas before it drops snow and ice on the Midwest. The forecast comes nearly a year after a catastrophic winter storm devastated Texas’ power grid, causing hundreds of deaths. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott planned a briefing Tuesday on the state’s readiness. Winter storm watches and warnings covered a wide swath of the country from El Paso, Texas, through the Midwest and parts of the Northeast to Burlington, Vermont. During the multiday storm, some areas may see a mix of rain and freezing rain before it changes to snow. More than a foot of snow is forecast in places.

Winter storm to bring snow, ice across wide swath of US

Amity Palmer discusses February classes and exhibits at the Carnegie Arts Center.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Carnegie Arts Center" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=5ha5e-119541c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Amity Palmer discusses February classes and exhibits at the Carnegie Arts Center.

POST PODCAST: Carnegie Arts Center

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The upcoming trial of U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry could be delayed until March 15, based on recently filed court documents.

 The nine-term Nebraska Republican is scheduled for trial on Feb. 15 in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, but prosecutors filed motion last week to postpone it until March 15, citing the spread of the omicron variant of the coronavirus. 

In court documents, prosecutors say Fortenberry’s attorneys represented that they don’t have a conflict with the proposed March 15 trial date.

 Prosecutors have accused Fortenberry of misleading federal authorities who were investigating an illegal contribution to his campaign from a foreign national. 

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The upcoming trial of U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry could be delayed until March 15, based on recently filed court documents. The nine-term Nebraska Republican is scheduled for trial on Feb. 15 in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, but prosecutors filed motion last week to postpone it until March 15, citing the spread of the omicron variant of the coronavirus. In court documents, prosecutors say Fortenberry’s attorneys represented that they don’t have a conflict with the proposed March 15 trial date. Prosecutors have accused Fortenberry of misleading federal authorities who were investigating an illegal contribution to his campaign from a foreign national. He has pleaded not guilty.

Nebraska Rep. Fortenberry trial could be delayed until March

Scottsbluff – United Way of Western Nebraska is excited to announce that grant applications are currently being accepted from 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for 2022-2023 funding. Fund your good work in the community through a United Way community grant. Applications are available online at <a href="http://www.uwwn.org/grant">www.uwwn.org/grant</a>.

United Way work focuses on identifying the issues impacting the community in the areas of health, education, and financial stability. Services provided by the organizations must promote healthier lives, better education or financial stability, provide for and contribute primarily to human care and health needs operating and serving individuals in health, welfare, recreation, youth-guidance and/or character-building field.

Funds for the United Way of Western Nebraska grants are raised in the local community during the annual United Way fundraising campaign and through United Way special events. Agencies that apply and meet the funding criteria will be interviewed by a group of United Way volunteers that determine funding levels for each agency. Agencies seeking funding from the United Way of Western Nebraska main office will be interviewed on Thursday April 7 in Scottsbluff, Dawes County interviews for funding will be held on Wednesday, April 13 in Chadron and Box Butte County interviews will be held on Wednesday, April 20 in Alliance. The amount of funding available is based on the final amount raised at the end of the United Way campaign. The money raised in the Scotts Bluff County area is granted to Scotts Bluff area nonprofits, Box Butte County is granted to Box Butte County agencies and Dawes County funds are given to Dawes County non-profits that apply for and are granted United Way funding.

Interested agencies must submit an intent to apply by emailing Karen Benzel at kbenzel@uwwn.org by no later than March 1, 2022 to receive a secure agency link to upload their application. The deadline to submit the United Way of Western Nebraska funding application is Friday, March 4, 2022. No late applications will be considered. Agencies may contact Karen Benzel, United Way of Western Nebraska Executive Director, in the Alliance office via email (kbenzel@uwwn.org) or by calling (308) 763-8031 or contact the Scottsbluff office at 308-635-2522 for more information.

United Way of Western Nebraska is a nonprofit organization that unites people and resources to build a stronger, healthier and more compassionate community. They support 25 local nonprofit agencies in the areas of education, health and financial stability. They have been reinvesting in Western Nebraska since their inception in 1945. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.uwwn.org">www.uwwn.org</a>.

Scottsbluff – United Way of Western Nebraska is excited to announce that grant applications are currently being accepted from 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for 2022-2023 funding. Fund your good work in the community through a United Way community grant. Applications are available online at <a href="http://www.uwwn.org/grant">www.uwwn.org/grant</a>. United Way work focuses on identifying the issues impacting the community in the areas of health, education, and financial stability. Services provided by the organizations must promote healthier lives, better education or financial stability, provide for and contribute primarily to human care and health needs operating and serving individuals in health, welfare, recreation, youth-guidance and/or character-building field.Funds for the United Way of Western Nebraska grants are raised in the local community during the annual United Way fundraising campaign and through United Way special events. Agencies that apply and meet the funding criteria will be interviewed by a group of United Way volunteers that determine funding levels for each agency. Agencies seeking funding from the United Way of Western Nebraska main office will be interviewed on Thursday April 7 in Scottsbluff, Dawes County interviews for funding will be held on Wednesday, April 13 in Chadron and Box Butte County interviews will be held on Wednesday, April 20 in Alliance. The amount of funding available is based on the final amount raised at the end of the United Way campaign. The money raised in the Scotts Bluff County area is granted to Scotts Bluff area nonprofits, Box Butte County is granted to Box Butte County agencies and Dawes County funds are given to Dawes County non-profits that apply for and are granted United Way funding.Interested agencies must submit an intent to apply by emailing Karen Benzel at kbenzel@uwwn.org by no later than March 1, 2022 to receive a secure agency link to upload their application. The deadline to submit the United Way of Western Nebraska funding application is Friday, March 4, 2022. No late applications will be considered. Agencies may contact Karen Benzel, United Way of Western Nebraska Executive Director, in the Alliance office via email (kbenzel@uwwn.org) or by calling (308) 763-8031 or contact the Scottsbluff office at 308-635-2522 for more information.United Way of Western Nebraska is a nonprofit organization that unites people and resources to build a stronger, healthier and more compassionate community. They support 25 local nonprofit agencies in the areas of education, health and financial stability. They have been reinvesting in Western Nebraska since their inception in 1945. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.uwwn.org">www.uwwn.org</a>.

Applications open for United Way of Western Nebraska grants 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska hospital officials said Monday that it appears the latest surge in COVID-19 cases driven by the highly contagious omicron variant may have peaked in the state, but hospitalizations remain extremely high. 

The number of cases the state reported to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention fell last week to 22,302 for the week ending Thursday from the previous week's record of 29,141.

 But the large number of COVID-19 patients across the state, which hit 739 Sunday, continues to strain hospital capacity.

 And hospitalizations might still continue to rise in the days ahead because they tend to lag a week or two behind the number of cases.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska hospital officials said Monday that it appears the latest surge in COVID-19 cases driven by the highly contagious omicron variant may have peaked in the state, but hospitalizations remain extremely high. The number of cases the state reported to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention fell last week to 22,302 for the week ending Thursday from the previous week's record of 29,141. But the large number of COVID-19 patients across the state, which hit 739 Sunday, continues to strain hospital capacity. And hospitalizations might still continue to rise in the days ahead because they tend to lag a week or two behind the number of cases.

Hospital CEOs say omicron surge may have peaked in Nebraska

The City of Chadron and the Chadron Public School District have worked together over the last few months to enhance the safety of the community's school zones. 

"New ordinances have been established that will define the school zone around our public schools, to include a time period that motorists will need to travel 15 miles per hour," Chadron Police Chief Rick Hickstein said. "The new time period will be 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday of the school year. The new ordinances also add traffic control devices at intersections to assist with the flow of traffic and vehicle speeds around the schools."

Starting the week of Feb. 7 , the City of Chadron’s Street Department will move signs and add signs around the school buildings to establish the new school zones. 

Chadron Police Department estimate that all new signage will be in place by Feb. 11.&nbsp;

"Once the signs are in place, you will notice school zone signs when approaching the schools, as well as end of school zone signs when traveling away from the schools," Hickstein said. "There will also be several stop signs added at a few intersections as well. Both intersections in front of Chadron Intermediate, as well as two intersections on Shelton Street near the Chadron Primary will see the addition of stop signs."

For any questions, contact the Chadron Police Department at 308-432-0510.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe City of Chadron and the Chadron Public School District have worked together over the last few months to enhance the safety of the community's school zones. "New ordinances have been established that will define the school zone around our public schools, to include a time period that motorists will need to travel 15 miles per hour," Chadron Police Chief Rick Hickstein said. "The new time period will be 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday of the school year. The new ordinances also add traffic control devices at intersections to assist with the flow of traffic and vehicle speeds around the schools."Starting the week of Feb. 7 , the City of Chadron’s Street Department will move signs and add signs around the school buildings to establish the new school zones. Chadron Police Department estimate that all new signage will be in place by Feb. 11.&nbsp;"Once the signs are in place, you will notice school zone signs when approaching the schools, as well as end of school zone signs when traveling away from the schools," Hickstein said. "There will also be several stop signs added at a few intersections as well. Both intersections in front of Chadron Intermediate, as well as two intersections on Shelton Street near the Chadron Primary will see the addition of stop signs."For any questions, contact the Chadron Police Department at 308-432-0510.

CPD reminds Chadron community of new school zone ordinances

By Dave&nbsp;Ostdiek, Nebraska Extension

The 2022 Nebraska Dry Edible Bean Day will feature the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association’s annual meeting, as well as information on dry bean revenue insurance, irrigation water outlook, and discussion of on-farm research with University of Nebraska-Lincoln specialists.

Dry Edible Bean Day is scheduled for 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8, at Gering Civic Center.

For those who want to hear the presentations remotely, the meeting will be available on the Zoom webinar platform. To obtain information about how to connect via Zoom, contact the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association prior to the day of the event at 308-633-1387 or email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nebeangrower@allophone.com" target="_blank">nebeangrower@allophone.com</a>

Registration and opportunity to visit vendor booths begins at noon. The program begins at 1 p.m. with welcomes from Dan Hinman, Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association president, and Courtney Schuler, chair of the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission. The NDBGA annual meeting and voting takes place at 1:15. p.m.

Presentations begin at 1:30, with Vanessa Reishus of Farm Credit Services providing an overview of the new dry bean revenue insurance program. Dennis Strauch of Pathfinder Irrigation District will update the status of surface water irrigation supplies for 2022. Scott Schaneman of the North Platte Natural Resources District will provide an update of the status of groundwater irrigation.

After a break, UNL Panhandle Center researchers and several bean producers will have a panel discussion focusing on 2022 on-farm research efforts. The audience will have an opportunity to learn about the projects, ask questions, and consider whether they are interested in opportunities to participate. Potential on-farm research topics include regional western bean cutworm monitoring; developing heat-resilient dry bean varieties; nitrogen management for dry bean production; continued testing of new copper-alternative chemical products for managing diseases; promoting sensor-based irrigation management; and on-farm weed control studies.

Also at Bean Day, Nebraska Extension Educator Tammie Ostdiek is tentatively planning to give a demonstration of cooking dry beans in the multi-cooker in a separate room. Anybody who is interested must register beforehand. Contact the NDBGA at 308-633-1387 or Tammie Ostdiek at 308-262-1022 by Jan. 31.

For more information check the NDBGA Association website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.beangrower.com/" target="_blank">www.beangrower.com</a>

By Dave&nbsp;Ostdiek, Nebraska ExtensionThe 2022 Nebraska Dry Edible Bean Day will feature the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association’s annual meeting, as well as information on dry bean revenue insurance, irrigation water outlook, and discussion of on-farm research with University of Nebraska-Lincoln specialists.Dry Edible Bean Day is scheduled for 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8, at Gering Civic Center.For those who want to hear the presentations remotely, the meeting will be available on the Zoom webinar platform. To obtain information about how to connect via Zoom, contact the Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association prior to the day of the event at 308-633-1387 or email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nebeangrower@allophone.com" target="_blank">nebeangrower@allophone.com</a>Registration and opportunity to visit vendor booths begins at noon. The program begins at 1 p.m. with welcomes from Dan Hinman, Nebraska Dry Bean Growers Association president, and Courtney Schuler, chair of the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission. The NDBGA annual meeting and voting takes place at 1:15. p.m.Presentations begin at 1:30, with Vanessa Reishus of Farm Credit Services providing an overview of the new dry bean revenue insurance program. Dennis Strauch of Pathfinder Irrigation District will update the status of surface water irrigation supplies for 2022. Scott Schaneman of the North Platte Natural Resources District will provide an update of the status of groundwater irrigation.After a break, UNL Panhandle Center researchers and several bean producers will have a panel discussion focusing on 2022 on-farm research efforts. The audience will have an opportunity to learn about the projects, ask questions, and consider whether they are interested in opportunities to participate. Potential on-farm research topics include regional western bean cutworm monitoring; developing heat-resilient dry bean varieties; nitrogen management for dry bean production; continued testing of new copper-alternative chemical products for managing diseases; promoting sensor-based irrigation management; and on-farm weed control studies.Also at Bean Day, Nebraska Extension Educator Tammie Ostdiek is tentatively planning to give a demonstration of cooking dry beans in the multi-cooker in a separate room. Anybody who is interested must register beforehand. Contact the NDBGA at 308-633-1387 or Tammie Ostdiek at 308-262-1022 by Jan. 31.For more information check the NDBGA Association website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.beangrower.com/" target="_blank">www.beangrower.com</a>

Dry Edible Bean Day to be held at Gering Civic Center, with Zoom option

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY&nbsp;

Strong winds are expected to return to much of southeast Wyoming and the western Nebraska Panhandle today with widespread gusts 60-70 MPH expected. 

Localized gusts in excess of 85 MPH are possible on the eastern slopes of the northern and central Laramie Range eastward into the I-25 corridor near Glendo, Wheatland, Bordeaux and Chugwater. 

The strongest winds for most areas will occur this afternoon.

 Those driving light weight and high profile vehicles including campers and tractor trailers should use extreme caution today. 

In addition to the high winds, very dry conditions could lead to rapid fire growth should any new fire starts occur. Avoid burning of any kind.&nbsp;

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY&nbsp;Strong winds are expected to return to much of southeast Wyoming and the western Nebraska Panhandle today with widespread gusts 60-70 MPH expected. Localized gusts in excess of 85 MPH are possible on the eastern slopes of the northern and central Laramie Range eastward into the I-25 corridor near Glendo, Wheatland, Bordeaux and Chugwater. The strongest winds for most areas will occur this afternoon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643650655171.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> Those driving light weight and high profile vehicles including campers and tractor trailers should use extreme caution today. In addition to the high winds, very dry conditions could lead to rapid fire growth should any new fire starts occur. Avoid burning of any kind.&nbsp;

High Wind Warning issued for areas of Panhandle 

By&nbsp;David Ostdiek, Nebraska Extension&nbsp;

The annual University of Nebraska-Lincoln High Plains Ag Lab Research Update and Advisory Board Meeting is scheduled for Feb. 9 at the Western Nebraska Community College campus in Sidney.

The latest results from crop and livestock research at HPAL, as well as administrative and business updates, will be shared with the HPAL advisory board and the public. The morning session starts with coffee and doughnuts at 8:30 a.m. at 371 South College Drive.&nbsp;After lunch, the HPAL Advisory Committee will meet.

The public is welcome. For more information call the High Plains Ag Lab at 308-254-3918.

Welcome and Overview&nbsp;– Cody Creech, UNL Dryland Cropping Systems Specialist

Proso Millet Breeding and Spring and Winter Pea Variety Testing Results&nbsp;- Dipak Santra, UNL Alternative Crops Breeder

Strategic Supplementation of Yearlings Grazing Summer Grass&nbsp;– Karla Wilke, Range Management Cow/Calf Specialist

Examining the Potential Trade-offs between Pest Management and Pollination to Sunflower Yield in Nebraska&nbsp;– Jeff Bradshaw, Entomology

Winter Wheat Nitrogen Fertility Management&nbsp;– Bijesh Maharjan, Soil and Nutrient Management Specialist

Ag Economics Update&nbsp;– Jessica Groskopf, Regional Ag Economist

Variety Testing Results and Sawfly Management Options&nbsp;– Amanda Easterly, Assistant Research Professor

Wheat Production and Management&nbsp;– Cody Creech, Dryland Cropping Systems Specialist

Special presentations will also be made by Martha Mamo, UNL Agronomy and Horticulture Department Head, and Marcia White, University of Nebraska Foundation

By&nbsp;David Ostdiek, Nebraska Extension&nbsp;The annual University of Nebraska-Lincoln High Plains Ag Lab Research Update and Advisory Board Meeting is scheduled for Feb. 9 at the Western Nebraska Community College campus in Sidney.The latest results from crop and livestock research at HPAL, as well as administrative and business updates, will be shared with the HPAL advisory board and the public. The morning session starts with coffee and doughnuts at 8:30 a.m. at 371 South College Drive.&nbsp;After lunch, the HPAL Advisory Committee will meet.The public is welcome. For more information call the High Plains Ag Lab at 308-254-3918.The research report topics include:Welcome and Overview&nbsp;– Cody Creech, UNL Dryland Cropping Systems SpecialistProso Millet Breeding and Spring and Winter Pea Variety Testing Results&nbsp;- Dipak Santra, UNL Alternative Crops BreederStrategic Supplementation of Yearlings Grazing Summer Grass&nbsp;– Karla Wilke, Range Management Cow/Calf SpecialistExamining the Potential Trade-offs between Pest Management and Pollination to Sunflower Yield in Nebraska&nbsp;– Jeff Bradshaw, EntomologyWinter Wheat Nitrogen Fertility Management&nbsp;– Bijesh Maharjan, Soil and Nutrient Management SpecialistAg Economics Update&nbsp;– Jessica Groskopf, Regional Ag EconomistVariety Testing Results and Sawfly Management Options&nbsp;– Amanda Easterly, Assistant Research ProfessorWheat Production and Management&nbsp;– Cody Creech, Dryland Cropping Systems SpecialistSpecial presentations will also be made by Martha Mamo, UNL Agronomy and Horticulture Department Head, and Marcia White, University of Nebraska Foundation

Annual High Plains Ag Lab research update to be held in Sidney

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A grand jury found no criminal wrongdoing in the deaths of eight inmates last year, including four who had COVID-19. 

The Lincoln Journal Star reports that records filed in Lancaster County District Court said three of the men who had COVID-19 — David Frederick Munsey, 58; Robert Lewis, 61; and Jaime Rivera Jr., 38 — had refused to get vaccinated. 

A fourth state prison inmate, 40-year-old William Lassek Jr., also died after testing positive for COVID-19.

 Three other state prison inmates and a Lancaster County Jail inmate who all had health issues died while in custody last year. 

 No wrongdoing was found in the deaths of Michael Kirchhoff, 58; Patrick Russell, 64; Xavier Valentine, 22; and Nuha Farid, 51.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A grand jury found no criminal wrongdoing in the deaths of eight inmates last year, including four who had COVID-19. The Lincoln Journal Star reports that records filed in Lancaster County District Court said three of the men who had COVID-19 — David Frederick Munsey, 58; Robert Lewis, 61; and Jaime Rivera Jr., 38 — had refused to get vaccinated. A fourth state prison inmate, 40-year-old William Lassek Jr., also died after testing positive for COVID-19. Three other state prison inmates and a Lancaster County Jail inmate who all had health issues died while in custody last year. No wrongdoing was found in the deaths of Michael Kirchhoff, 58; Patrick Russell, 64; Xavier Valentine, 22; and Nuha Farid, 51.

Grand jury clears officials in deaths of 8 inmates last year

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — State officials say a Lincoln trash truck caused more than $200,000 damage to a limestone wall at the Nebraska State Capitol. 

The state filed a lawsuit last week against Uribe Refuse Services over the damage to the building that is a registered National Historic Landmark.

 Assistant Nebraska Attorney General Erik Fern said in the lawsuit that a truck owned by Uribe rolled down a loading ramp and collided with the wall of the capitol on April 28, 2020.

 Fern said the trash company was negligent because the driver didn’t maintain control of the truck and brake properly. 

Uribe hasn’t yet responded to the lawsuit.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — State officials say a Lincoln trash truck caused more than $200,000 damage to a limestone wall at the Nebraska State Capitol. The state filed a lawsuit last week against Uribe Refuse Services over the damage to the building that is a registered National Historic Landmark. Assistant Nebraska Attorney General Erik Fern said in the lawsuit that a truck owned by Uribe rolled down a loading ramp and collided with the wall of the capitol on April 28, 2020. Fern said the trash company was negligent because the driver didn’t maintain control of the truck and brake properly. Uribe hasn’t yet responded to the lawsuit.

State says trash truck caused $200,000 damage to Capitol

Only In Your State has gathered a series of historic photos, courtesy of History Nebraska, showing off what life looked like in Nebraska in the early 1900s.

Click <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nebraska/historic-photos-ne/">HERE</a> to take a look at the collection.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638911449771.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Only In Your State has gathered a series of historic photos, courtesy of History Nebraska, showing off what life looked like in Nebraska in the early 1900s.Click <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nebraska/historic-photos-ne/">HERE</a> to take a look at the collection.

Historic photos capture images of Nebraska life in the early 1900s

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — One person is dead and two people are in custody following a shooting in Custer County. 

Authorities say the shooting happened Thursday near Red Shirt Table in eastern Custer County.

  The state Division of Criminal Investigation says the shooting was related to a separate incident on the Pine Ridge Reservation involving an Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Safety officer. 

No other information about the victim or people in custody has been released.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — One person is dead and two people are in custody following a shooting in Custer County. Authorities say the shooting happened Thursday near Red Shirt Table in eastern Custer County. The state Division of Criminal Investigation says the shooting was related to a separate incident on the Pine Ridge Reservation involving an Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Safety officer. The officer was unharmed. No other information about the victim or people in custody has been released.

1 dead, 2 arrested following SD shooting in Custer County

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has made a change to its cartoon mascot Herbie Husker to eliminate confusion about the meaning of a hand gesture some people connect with white supremacy. 

In the original depiction, Herbie’s left hand made the OK sign with the index finger and thumb forming a closed circle. 

In recent years some hate groups have come to use the gesture as a sign for white power. 

Herbie’s hand now makes the well-known “We’re No. 1” sign with his index finger raised. 

The university says the concern was brought to its attention by an apparel provider and others.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has made a change to its cartoon mascot Herbie Husker to eliminate confusion about the meaning of a hand gesture some people connect with white supremacy. In the original depiction, Herbie’s left hand made the OK sign with the index finger and thumb forming a closed circle. In recent years some hate groups have come to use the gesture as a sign for white power. Herbie’s hand now makes the well-known “We’re No. 1” sign with his index finger raised. The university says the concern was brought to its attention by an apparel provider and others.

Mascot hand gesture revised to avoid tie to white supremacy

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — A federal judge has temporarily halted a South Dakota rule from taking effect that would have made the state one of the hardest places in the U.S. to get abortion pills. 

U.S. District Judge Karen Schreier late Wednesday granted a request from Planned Parenthood for a restraining order on a state Department of Health rule that was set to go into effect Thursday. 

Gov. Kristi Noem initiated the rule change through an executive order.

 It would have required abortion-seekers to return to a doctor to receive the second of two drugs used for a medication abortion.

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — A federal judge has temporarily halted a South Dakota rule from taking effect that would have made the state one of the hardest places in the U.S. to get abortion pills. U.S. District Judge Karen Schreier late Wednesday granted a request from Planned Parenthood for a restraining order on a state Department of Health rule that was set to go into effect Thursday. Gov. Kristi Noem initiated the rule change through an executive order. It would have required abortion-seekers to return to a doctor to receive the second of two drugs used for a medication abortion.

Judge halts South Dakota Gov. Noem's abortion pill rule

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem has scaled back plans to expand campsites at Custer State Park after her initial proposal hit resistance in the Republican-controlled Legislature. 

The Republican governor’s office shared new plans on Wednesday with lawmakers that would halve the number of campsites from the more than 176 that were proposed, the Sioux Falls Argus Leader reported. 

It would also cut the proposal to $5 million after an initial $10 million ask, as well as relocate the proposed campground away from the Wildlife Loop Road. 

Republican lawmakers had soured on the plan after privately-owned campgrounds in the area spoke out against it and conservation groups raised concerns about how wildlife would be affected.

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem has scaled back plans to expand campsites at Custer State Park after her initial proposal hit resistance in the Republican-controlled Legislature. The Republican governor’s office shared new plans on Wednesday with lawmakers that would halve the number of campsites from the more than 176 that were proposed, the Sioux Falls Argus Leader reported. It would also cut the proposal to $5 million after an initial $10 million ask, as well as relocate the proposed campground away from the Wildlife Loop Road. Republican lawmakers had soured on the plan after privately-owned campgrounds in the area spoke out against it and conservation groups raised concerns about how wildlife would be affected.

Governor scales back Custer State Park campsite proposal

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A judge has upheld an arbitrator's decision that sided with employees who complained after the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services changed the department's dress code in 2019 to ban jeans and other casual clothes Monday through Thursday.

 Members of the state's public employees union filed a grievance challenging the change, saying some employees who performed the same work at the same location and on the same shift were allowed to wear jeans, while others were not. 

The Lincoln Journal Star reports that an arbitrator ordered the agency to revert to the previous dress code, saying HHS was imposing different standards on similarly situated employees. 

The agency asked the courts to vacate that order, but a judge this week agreed with the arbitrator's ruling.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A judge has upheld an arbitrator's decision that sided with employees who complained after the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services changed the department's dress code in 2019 to ban jeans and other casual clothes Monday through Thursday. Members of the state's public employees union filed a grievance challenging the change, saying some employees who performed the same work at the same location and on the same shift were allowed to wear jeans, while others were not. The Lincoln Journal Star reports that an arbitrator ordered the agency to revert to the previous dress code, saying HHS was imposing different standards on similarly situated employees. The agency asked the courts to vacate that order, but a judge this week agreed with the arbitrator's ruling.

Judge sides with Nebraska HHS employees in dress code fight

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific says it plans to spend $100 million to buy 20 battery-electric engines within two years. 

The railroad company announced Friday the first locomotives will arrive in 2023, with full delivery in 2024.

 It plans to test the locomotives at rail yards in Nebraska and California to determine how they operate in cold and warm temperatures. 

Union Pacific CEO Lance Fritz said in a statement the company is committed to reducing its environmental footprint as it tries to reach net zero emissions by 2050. 

Progress Rail, a division of Caterpillar, will manufacture the locomotives.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific says it plans to spend $100 million to buy 20 battery-electric engines within two years. The railroad company announced Friday the first locomotives will arrive in 2023, with full delivery in 2024. It plans to test the locomotives at rail yards in Nebraska and California to determine how they operate in cold and warm temperatures. Union Pacific CEO Lance Fritz said in a statement the company is committed to reducing its environmental footprint as it tries to reach net zero emissions by 2050. Progress Rail, a division of Caterpillar, will manufacture the locomotives.

Union Pacific announces plans for battery-electric engines

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — A bill to bar the sale of sweetened medical marijuana products and gummies has failed to pass the South Dakota House.

 The bill would have banned the sale of cannabis products with “added sweeteners, flavorings, or colorings.” 

The Republican-controlled House has been more receptive to substantive changes to the voter-passed medical marijuana law than the Senate. 

But the 21 to 47 vote that killed the bill shows lawmakers are treading cautiously as they put their mark on the new law.

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — A bill to bar the sale of sweetened medical marijuana products and gummies has failed to pass the South Dakota House. The bill would have banned the sale of cannabis products with “added sweeteners, flavorings, or colorings.” The Republican-controlled House has been more receptive to substantive changes to the voter-passed medical marijuana law than the Senate. But the 21 to 47 vote that killed the bill shows lawmakers are treading cautiously as they put their mark on the new law.

South Dakota House bill on medical marijuana edibles fails to pass

By RON FIELDS <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health challenges among young people were the leading causes of disability and poor life outcomes,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-youth-mental-health-advisory.pdf">according to the U.S. Surgeon General.</a>

But now after almost two years of enduring a life-changing pandemic, area mental health professionals say the need for mental health services has increased dramatically — compounded by factors such as social media, political divisions in communities and an overloaded mental health care system.

"Especially toward the fall of 2020, we were starting to see an increase after kids were at home for six months," said Carie Brown of Great Bend-based&nbsp;<a href="https://heartofkansas.com/">Heart of Kansas Family Heath Care</a>. "Symptoms have been more exacerbated by the pandemic."

Brown, a licensed specialist clinical social worker and licensed clinical addictions counselor, said the isolation caused by stay-at-home orders was traumatic for many young people.

"We have kids whose home lives are not good. Food is an issue or safety is an issue," said Brown, a Fort Hays State University graduate and Logan, Kan., native. "During that pandemic time, they were all alone in that."

If you’re in crisis, get immediate help: Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273- 8255,&nbsp;<a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/">chat</a>&nbsp;with trained counselors 24/7, or&nbsp;<a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/help-yourself/">get help in other ways through the Lifeline.</a>&nbsp;You can also contact the National Crisis Textline by texting HOME to 741741.

Pediatric psychologist Matthew Wassom of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.katieswaymanhattan.com/">Katie's Way</a>&nbsp;in Manhattan agreed.

"From March 2020 through the summer and into the fall of 2020 ... they were losing the routine and structure of life," he said. "And then, obviously, you take away one of the most valuable things, which is social functioning.

"Children were spending more time with family. ... That's nice for some families, but not for all families, especially in vulnerable populations," he said.

In rural northwest Nebraska, Catherine Jones-Hazledine, a psychologist with Rushville-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.westernnebraskabehavioralhealth.com/">Western Nebraska Behavior Health</a>, said mental health issues among her patients have been magnified by current circumstances.

"We see all of the normal things that we would see, but they are just intensifying. A lot of us as providers are worried about parent-child interactions because there were no breaks, worried about parents coping and increases in maladaptive parenting," she said. "We are seeing depressed kids, really lonely kids, especially in high school, where those kids lost milestone after milestone after milestone."

School referrals make up a significant portion of the juvenile patient loads for most mental health providers. Brown said that during the early days of the pandemic, juvenile cases actually saw a slight decrease.

"Kids with behavior or emotional issues, those issues tend to come out in a school setting, in a a structured setting," Brown said. "During that March of 2020 to the fall, there were not a lot of new referrals. But once kids got back into schools, that's when we really started seeing that influx in referrals."

Wassom said his patient load was a mixed bag during that time period.

"Some vulnerable populations had less access to care ... but kids with better resources, more involved parents, more financial resources, we saw them seeking out care for the first time," he said.

The situation was different for Jones-Hazledine, whose practice is integrated in medical settings along with other health providers.

"The doctors are still the first person that people call when they're concerned about their kids out here, that and their pastors and priests," she said. "The kids were still finding their way to us."

Jones-Hazledine said the politics of COVID, coupled with other events on a national scale, have "coalesced into this big ball of conflict" — adding to the stressors for young people.&nbsp;

"We're in a very rural red areas, and there's a lot of division about what it all means and what to think. That's been hard for everybody, but especially to the young people. It's super confusing," she said. "There are kiddos out there whose family believes in the science, and those kids go to school and go to class with kids who believe differently. ... And can be teased or mocked.

"Bullying is always something with young people, but it's jut different now," she added. "The kids see there are adults often engaging in conflict over medical issues, issues of what students should learn."

Social media and "screens" also have played an enormous role in mental health challenges, the providers said.

"Electronics are a huge issue. They've become the babysitter. They've become an easier method than actively engaging and trying to do things as a family," Brown said. "As parents, we all have to look at that and be honest about it. ... It creates more obstacles than people realize."

During the isolation period, young people used social media increasingly to stay connected with their peers, but also faced a heightened risk of being bullied or engaging in risky online behavior.

"Digital stuff is always worse," said Jones-Hazledine. "As a society, we'll say things to each other and treat each other on social media that we would never say in person. It's grown over time, and there is no consequence. "

One of her student patients recently paraphrased a quote from Oscar Wilde: "Give a man a mask, and he'll tell you the truth."

"Not just the positive, but the negative. ... It's more honest, but we are also more harsh," she said.

While Wassom said he doesn't have "blanket hate" for screens and social media, he agreed the isolation drove more kids to increased screen time, often to the detriment of those children.

"If a family system doesn't have a good process set up, then you see the negative side of social media and the internet," he said. "We've seen a higher rate of tech addiction-type behaviors and a lot of issues of negative side effects of social media platforms."

Wassom compared device use among young people to driver's education.

"It's about social media literacy, trying to teach children before they ever lay hands on a device how to use that device in an healthy manner," he said, noting no one would give the keys to a car to an untrained child an expect them to drive safely away.

While those in junior high and high school are experiencing a "new normal," some younger children will retain little, if any, recollection of what life was like pre-COVID — which could be a positive, Wassom said.

"If you have a 5- or 6-year-old who is now 8 or 9, they have a good stretch of their early elementary development done during a pandemic," he said. "They may not have a clear picture of how things are when there is not a pandemic, and maybe some of them are doing a bit better, and they've adapted in their resilience."

In Jones-Hazledine's area of western Nebraska, one of the most troubling aspects of COVID is what she is hearing from teachers and schools.

"We have heard over and over again that the kids they're teaching right now are a good year behind socio-emotionally. The year of isolation really took a toll on everything," she said. "Kids are resilient, but to hear that across the board in all different kinds of schools, it's kind of mind-blowing.

In a June 2021 study, the U.S. Surgeon General's office reported depressive and anxiety symptoms double during the pandemic, with 25 percent of young people experiencing depressive symptoms and 20 percent experiencing anxiety. Suspected suicide attempts increased 51 percent for girls and 4 percent for boys compared to 2019.

"It's a combination of everything we've talked about — feelings of isolation, exposure to things through screen time, this extremely difficult situation for kids and for parents," Brown said. "There's been an increase in suicidal behaviors and that is very concerning."

Like most every sector in the U.S. economy, mental health health providers are struggling with staffing issues in their clinics.

"We are absolutely overwhelmed, much more so than we were in the first year of the pandemic. The need is through the roof," Jones-Hazledine said. "Most practices out here, there are two- to three-month waiting lists. This is source of great stress to the providers in my practice."

Wassom said Katie's Way sees patients from eastern to far western Kansas.

"It speaks to the shortage of certain types of providers across the whole state," he said.

Brown agreed, noting her clinic is seeking an additional behavior health professional, as well a additional nursing staff.

By RON FIELDS <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health challenges among young people were the leading causes of disability and poor life outcomes,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-youth-mental-health-advisory.pdf">according to the U.S. Surgeon General.</a>But now after almost two years of enduring a life-changing pandemic, area mental health professionals say the need for mental health services has increased dramatically — compounded by factors such as social media, political divisions in communities and an overloaded mental health care system."Especially toward the fall of 2020, we were starting to see an increase after kids were at home for six months," said Carie Brown of Great Bend-based&nbsp;<a href="https://heartofkansas.com/">Heart of Kansas Family Heath Care</a>. "Symptoms have been more exacerbated by the pandemic."Brown, a licensed specialist clinical social worker and licensed clinical addictions counselor, said the isolation caused by stay-at-home orders was traumatic for many young people."We have kids whose home lives are not good. Food is an issue or safety is an issue," said Brown, a Fort Hays State University graduate and Logan, Kan., native. "During that pandemic time, they were all alone in that."If you’re in crisis, get immediate help: Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273- 8255,&nbsp;<a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/">chat</a>&nbsp;with trained counselors 24/7, or&nbsp;<a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/help-yourself/">get help in other ways through the Lifeline.</a>&nbsp;You can also contact the National Crisis Textline by texting HOME to 741741.Pediatric psychologist Matthew Wassom of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.katieswaymanhattan.com/">Katie's Way</a>&nbsp;in Manhattan agreed."From March 2020 through the summer and into the fall of 2020 ... they were losing the routine and structure of life," he said. "And then, obviously, you take away one of the most valuable things, which is social functioning."Children were spending more time with family. ... That's nice for some families, but not for all families, especially in vulnerable populations," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643306004920.png" alt="Wassom" />
 <figcaption>Wassom</figcaption>
 </figure>In rural northwest Nebraska, Catherine Jones-Hazledine, a psychologist with Rushville-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.westernnebraskabehavioralhealth.com/">Western Nebraska Behavior Health</a>, said mental health issues among her patients have been magnified by current circumstances."We see all of the normal things that we would see, but they are just intensifying. A lot of us as providers are worried about parent-child interactions because there were no breaks, worried about parents coping and increases in maladaptive parenting," she said. "We are seeing depressed kids, really lonely kids, especially in high school, where those kids lost milestone after milestone after milestone."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643306047888.jpeg" alt="Brown" />
 <figcaption>Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>School referrals make up a significant portion of the juvenile patient loads for most mental health providers. Brown said that during the early days of the pandemic, juvenile cases actually saw a slight decrease."Kids with behavior or emotional issues, those issues tend to come out in a school setting, in a a structured setting," Brown said. "During that March of 2020 to the fall, there were not a lot of new referrals. But once kids got back into schools, that's when we really started seeing that influx in referrals."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643306132278.png" alt="U.S. Surgeon General" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Surgeon General</figcaption>
 </figure>Wassom said his patient load was a mixed bag during that time period."Some vulnerable populations had less access to care ... but kids with better resources, more involved parents, more financial resources, we saw them seeking out care for the first time," he said.The situation was different for Jones-Hazledine, whose practice is integrated in medical settings along with other health providers."The doctors are still the first person that people call when they're concerned about their kids out here, that and their pastors and priests," she said. "The kids were still finding their way to us."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643306082797.jpeg" alt="Jones-Hazledine" />
 <figcaption>Jones-Hazledine</figcaption>
 </figure>Jones-Hazledine said the politics of COVID, coupled with other events on a national scale, have "coalesced into this big ball of conflict" — adding to the stressors for young people.&nbsp;"We're in a very rural red areas, and there's a lot of division about what it all means and what to think. That's been hard for everybody, but especially to the young people. It's super confusing," she said. "There are kiddos out there whose family believes in the science, and those kids go to school and go to class with kids who believe differently. ... And can be teased or mocked."Bullying is always something with young people, but it's jut different now," she added. "The kids see there are adults often engaging in conflict over medical issues, issues of what students should learn."<h2>Social media</h2>Social media and "screens" also have played an enormous role in mental health challenges, the providers said."Electronics are a huge issue. They've become the babysitter. They've become an easier method than actively engaging and trying to do things as a family," Brown said. "As parents, we all have to look at that and be honest about it. ... It creates more obstacles than people realize."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643306305522.png" alt="U.S. Surgeon General" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Surgeon General</figcaption>
 </figure>During the isolation period, young people used social media increasingly to stay connected with their peers, but also faced a heightened risk of being bullied or engaging in risky online behavior."Digital stuff is always worse," said Jones-Hazledine. "As a society, we'll say things to each other and treat each other on social media that we would never say in person. It's grown over time, and there is no consequence. "One of her student patients recently paraphrased a quote from Oscar Wilde: "Give a man a mask, and he'll tell you the truth.""Not just the positive, but the negative. ... It's more honest, but we are also more harsh," she said. While Wassom said he doesn't have "blanket hate" for screens and social media, he agreed the isolation drove more kids to increased screen time, often to the detriment of those children."If a family system doesn't have a good process set up, then you see the negative side of social media and the internet," he said. "We've seen a higher rate of tech addiction-type behaviors and a lot of issues of negative side effects of social media platforms."Wassom compared device use among young people to driver's education."It's about social media literacy, trying to teach children before they ever lay hands on a device how to use that device in an healthy manner," he said, noting no one would give the keys to a car to an untrained child an expect them to drive safely away.<h2>Outcomes</h2>While those in junior high and high school are experiencing a "new normal," some younger children will retain little, if any, recollection of what life was like pre-COVID — which could be a positive, Wassom said."If you have a 5- or 6-year-old who is now 8 or 9, they have a good stretch of their early elementary development done during a pandemic," he said. "They may not have a clear picture of how things are when there is not a pandemic, and maybe some of them are doing a bit better, and they've adapted in their resilience."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643306361441.png" alt="U.S. Surgeon General" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Surgeon General</figcaption>
 </figure>In Jones-Hazledine's area of western Nebraska, one of the most troubling aspects of COVID is what she is hearing from teachers and schools."We have heard over and over again that the kids they're teaching right now are a good year behind socio-emotionally. The year of isolation really took a toll on everything," she said. "Kids are resilient, but to hear that across the board in all different kinds of schools, it's kind of mind-blowing.In a June 2021 study, the U.S. Surgeon General's office reported depressive and anxiety symptoms double during the pandemic, with 25 percent of young people experiencing depressive symptoms and 20 percent experiencing anxiety. Suspected suicide attempts increased 51 percent for girls and 4 percent for boys compared to 2019."It's a combination of everything we've talked about — feelings of isolation, exposure to things through screen time, this extremely difficult situation for kids and for parents," Brown said. "There's been an increase in suicidal behaviors and that is very concerning."<h2>Staffing</h2>Like most every sector in the U.S. economy, mental health health providers are struggling with staffing issues in their clinics."We are absolutely overwhelmed, much more so than we were in the first year of the pandemic. The need is through the roof," Jones-Hazledine said. "Most practices out here, there are two- to three-month waiting lists. This is source of great stress to the providers in my practice."Wassom said Katie's Way sees patients from eastern to far western Kansas."It speaks to the shortage of certain types of providers across the whole state," he said.Brown agreed, noting her clinic is seeking an additional behavior health professional, as well a additional nursing staff.Jones-Hazledine said she had to enforce a mandated break over the holidays. Her staff is actively doing things to prevent what she called "compassion fatigue" and burnout.&nbsp;<h2>Solutions</h2>The U.S. Surgeon General's office said "there is much to be done" to support the mental health of children, including:•&nbsp;Recognizing mental health is an essential part of overall health. •&nbsp;Empowering youth and their families to recognize, manage and learn from difficult emotions. •&nbsp;Ensuring every child has access to high-quality, affordable and culturally competent mental health care. •&nbsp;Supporting the mental health of children in educational, community and child care settings. •&nbsp;Addressing economic and social barriers to care. •&nbsp;Increasing data collection to more rapidly identify mental health needs.Brown said access to services is crucial, as well as shaking the concept that mental health concerns is viewed through a stigmatized lens."Mental health has been seen like it's something to be ashamed of forever. The reality is it's nothing to be ashamed of," she said. "Everyone has felt sad, anxious, depressed —&nbsp;but there is help. It's important for people not to enter with that bias that it's something wrong."The more open people are to getting help, the more likely it is that it can be overcome and it can get better."Wassom said there might be a silver lining in the pandemic for some children."I've got some hopeful optimism. When you look at research of adverse events, there are still a lot of kids out there who have good resiliency, good support and positive relationships," he said. "They can come through fairly stressful situations fairly well developed. They could be strengthened and have developed new skills that other generations don't have."<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-youth-mental-health-advisory.pdf">The U.S. Surgeon General's report</a>&nbsp;issued a series of recommendations for schools, families, communities, the media, providers and others to help more young people navigate mental health issues."If we each start reorienting our priorities to create accessible space in our homes, schools, workplaces, and communities for seeking and giving assistance, we can all start building a culture that normalizes and promotes mental health care," the report said. "This is the moment to demand change — with our voices and with our actions. Only when we do will we be able to protect, strengthen, and support the health and safety of all children, adolescents, and young adults — and ensure everyone has a platform to thrive."Cover image by&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/@vesky?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Vesky</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/teen-depression?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a>