RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Police say that a suspect in a fatal stabbing in Rapid City had an “association” with the victim. 

Officers were called to the crime scene about 4 a.m. Tuesday and found the 24-year-old victim on the ground with several stab wounds.

 Paramedics arrived and transported the man to the hospital where he later died.

 The victim is identified as Leon Richards of Rapid City. 

Officers investigating the homicide say it does not appear to be a random crime. 

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Police say that a suspect in a fatal stabbing in Rapid City had an “association” with the victim. Officers were called to the crime scene about 4 a.m. Tuesday and found the 24-year-old victim on the ground with several stab wounds. Paramedics arrived and transported the man to the hospital where he later died. The victim is identified as Leon Richards of Rapid City. Officers investigating the homicide say it does not appear to be a random crime. A suspect remains at large.

Police: Rapid City stabbing victim, suspect were associated

Today we spoke with Chadron City Manager John Sutherland about the city council meeting from Oct. 18. Council approved a public hearing on the One and Six Year Street Improvement Plan for the fiscal year 2021-2022, approved pay estimates for the repair of the rowlock brick on the fascade of the Chadron Public Library, approved a USDA grant to help fund new vehicles for the City of Chadron and more.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Chadron City Manager John Sutherland" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=bz6ar-110c9af-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&btn-skin=5&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Today we spoke with Chadron City Manager John Sutherland about the city council meeting from Oct. 18. Council approved a public hearing on the One and Six Year Street Improvement Plan for the fiscal year 2021-2022, approved pay estimates for the repair of the rowlock brick on the fascade of the Chadron Public Library, approved a USDA grant to help fund new vehicles for the City of Chadron and more.&nbsp;

🔊 Post Podcast: Chadron City Manager John Sutherland

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

Vaccines seem to have become a hot topic, even though we’ve been using them in the United States for well over 100 years. So why do we use vaccines? How do they work?

Our immune system fights disease by distinguishing between things that belong in our bodies and things that don’t, viruses and bacteria known as pathogens. The immune system then destroys the things that don’t belong. Unwanted foreign substances are identified by markers on their surface called antigens. A vaccine works by exposing the immune system to the antigens from a pathogen that causes a certain disease. When your immune cells encounter these antigens, they mount a response. One cell type, B cells, start making antibodies, which bind to the foreign substance, disable it, and mark it for destruction. Other immune cells, T cells, attack and destroy cells of the body that have been infected by the pathogen.

The body also produces long-lived types of white blood cells, called memory T cells and memory B cells, that remember the antigens that have just been encountered. If your immune system comes across the same antigens again, these memory cells allow you to mount a strong response against that specific pathogen very quickly, so you are much less likely to get ill.

Vaccines are very effective at providing protection against certain diseases, though they don’t provide immunity in 100 per cent of cases. Rates of effectiveness also vary from vaccine to vaccine: a three-dose course of the polio vaccine is 99 per cent effective, whereas the effectiveness of typhoid vaccines is only around 70 per cent. The flu virus mutates every year, so a new vaccine is required annually.

A further complication is that the effects of some vaccinations wear off over time. Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine will usually provide 20 years’ protection against measles, but the effects of a typhoid vaccine will typically wear off after three years. This is why we have boosters; they ‘remind’ our immune system how to identify certain pathogens and top up our immunity.

Sometimes we talk about herd immunity. No vaccine is 100 per cent effective, and not everyone in a population will be vaccinated; some people cannot be vaccinated. However, if most people in a population are vaccinated and become immune to a disease, its ability to spread will be vastly reduced. This protects people without immunity from infection too.

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases gives us ten reasons why we should be vaccinated.

1. Vaccine-preventable diseases have not gone away, especially in other parts of the world. People who travel are often exposed to diseases that are no longer common in the US, which they might bring home with them.

2. Vaccines will help keep you healthy. Different vaccines are needed throughout your life to protect yourself from different infections and diseases.

3. Vaccines, just like diet and exercise, are important to your overall health.

4. Vaccination can mean the difference between life and death. Every year in the US, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately 50,000 adults died from vaccine-preventable diseases. COVID has killed over 700,000 Americans in the last two years.

5. Vaccines are safe. The US uses a rigorous testing process before the FDA approves a vaccine. Potential side effects associated with vaccines are uncommon and much less severe than the diseases they prevent.

6. Vaccines will not cause the diseases they were designed to prevent.

7. Young, healthy people can get sick, too. Infants and older adults are at increased risk for serious infections and complications, but vaccine-preventable diseases can strike anyone.

8. Diseases are expensive. An average flu illness can last up to 15 days, typically with five or six missed work or school days. Estimates are that diseases cost America $10 billion a year.

9. When you get sick, it places your children, grandchildren, parents, and friends at risk. You are suddenly unable to care for those who depend on you. And you spread your disease to those around you. Adults are the most common source of pertussis (whooping cough) infection in infants, which can be deadly for babies. When you get vaccinated, you are protecting yourself and your family as well as those in your community who may not be able to be vaccinated.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceVaccines seem to have become a hot topic, even though we’ve been using them in the United States for well over 100 years. So why do we use vaccines? How do they work?Our immune system fights disease by distinguishing between things that belong in our bodies and things that don’t, viruses and bacteria known as pathogens. The immune system then destroys the things that don’t belong. Unwanted foreign substances are identified by markers on their surface called antigens. A vaccine works by exposing the immune system to the antigens from a pathogen that causes a certain disease. When your immune cells encounter these antigens, they mount a response. One cell type, B cells, start making antibodies, which bind to the foreign substance, disable it, and mark it for destruction. Other immune cells, T cells, attack and destroy cells of the body that have been infected by the pathogen.The body also produces long-lived types of white blood cells, called memory T cells and memory B cells, that remember the antigens that have just been encountered. If your immune system comes across the same antigens again, these memory cells allow you to mount a strong response against that specific pathogen very quickly, so you are much less likely to get ill.Vaccines are very effective at providing protection against certain diseases, though they don’t provide immunity in 100 per cent of cases. Rates of effectiveness also vary from vaccine to vaccine: a three-dose course of the polio vaccine is 99 per cent effective, whereas the effectiveness of typhoid vaccines is only around 70 per cent. The flu virus mutates every year, so a new vaccine is required annually.A further complication is that the effects of some vaccinations wear off over time. Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine will usually provide 20 years’ protection against measles, but the effects of a typhoid vaccine will typically wear off after three years. This is why we have boosters; they ‘remind’ our immune system how to identify certain pathogens and top up our immunity.Sometimes we talk about herd immunity. No vaccine is 100 per cent effective, and not everyone in a population will be vaccinated; some people cannot be vaccinated. However, if most people in a population are vaccinated and become immune to a disease, its ability to spread will be vastly reduced. This protects people without immunity from infection too.The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases gives us ten reasons why we should be vaccinated.1. Vaccine-preventable diseases have not gone away, especially in other parts of the world. People who travel are often exposed to diseases that are no longer common in the US, which they might bring home with them.2. Vaccines will help keep you healthy. Different vaccines are needed throughout your life to protect yourself from different infections and diseases.3. Vaccines, just like diet and exercise, are important to your overall health.4. Vaccination can mean the difference between life and death. Every year in the US, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately 50,000 adults died from vaccine-preventable diseases. COVID has killed over 700,000 Americans in the last two years.5. Vaccines are safe. The US uses a rigorous testing process before the FDA approves a vaccine. Potential side effects associated with vaccines are uncommon and much less severe than the diseases they prevent.6. Vaccines will not cause the diseases they were designed to prevent.7. Young, healthy people can get sick, too. Infants and older adults are at increased risk for serious infections and complications, but vaccine-preventable diseases can strike anyone.8. Diseases are expensive. An average flu illness can last up to 15 days, typically with five or six missed work or school days. Estimates are that diseases cost America $10 billion a year.9. When you get sick, it places your children, grandchildren, parents, and friends at risk. You are suddenly unable to care for those who depend on you. And you spread your disease to those around you. Adults are the most common source of pertussis (whooping cough) infection in infants, which can be deadly for babies. When you get vaccinated, you are protecting yourself and your family as well as those in your community who may not be able to be vaccinated.10. Your family and co-workers need you!

Poverty In Our Area: Why do we vaccinate?

POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider amendments to wildlife regulations that would create a Free-earned Landowner Elk Permit Program at its Oct. 22 meeting in North Platte.

The meeting begins at 8 a.m. at Mid-Plains Community College North Campus, W.W. Woods Building, 1101 Halligan Drive.

If approved, a person who owns or leases at least 80 acres of farm- or ranchland for agricultural purposes would qualify for an either-sex elk permit following the verification of 10 general antlerless elk harvests; immediate family members would be eligible for the permit.

The Commission will consider the procedures and required documentation for the program.

The free-earned landowner elk permit was created during the 2021 Legislative Session. The goal is to increase hunting access opportunities and antlerless elk harvest, and to benefit landowners who regularly have elk on their property but can’t always draw a landowner permit.

Staff also will recommend the Commission approve an elk management plan, which describes the agency’s goal of managing elk at acceptable population levels while providing Nebraskans with quality hunting and viewing opportunities.

The Commission also will consider amending park regulations to increase the nonresident vehicle park entry permit fees to two times the resident vehicle park entry permits. Technical language regarding the resident disabled veteran park permit also would be updated.

In addition, the Commission will consider amendments to sport fishing orders regarding bag limits, possession limits, length limits and open areas as follows:

Black bass – A proposed change would expand the area where there is no minimum length limit on smallmouth bass to: the NPPD Canal starting at the Sutherland Reservoir outlet to the confluence with the South Platte River in Lincoln County, including Lake Maloney.

Bufflehead Wildlife Management Area and David City Ponds would be added to the list of waters where the minimum length limit on largemouth bass is 21 inches.

Striped bass, white bass and striped bass hybrid – Wagon Train Reservoir would be removed from the list of waters where the exception for bag limit is three fish in the daily bag.

Channel catfish – Box Butte Reservoir would be added to the list of waters where the exception for bag limit states it shall not include more than one fish 30 inches or greater in length.

Archery fishing – Technical language would be updated on Missouri River seasons and closed areas.

Lake McConaughy – It would be illegal to possess wipers on Lonergan Creek from its junction at the lakeshore of Lake McConaughy upstream to and including the culvert under Highway 92.

In other business, the Commission will consider:

• allowing hunting in some state parks and state historical parks;

• approving a permanent 100-foot-wide right-of-way easement to Cherry County for maintenance of a road at Cottonwood-Steverson Wildlife Management Area; and

• the proposed meeting schedule for 2022: January, Lincoln; March, Niobrara State Park; April, Ogallala; June, Lexington; August, Sidney; October, Broken Bow.

Staff also will report on an elk hunting season update, west-central Nebraska outreach efforts, an environmental report, and results of the Education Workgroup Community Survey.

A complete agenda is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEwMTguNDc1Mzk0MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb21taXNzaW9uZXJzLyJ9.j7By50kxYRrnQ-SjB0S3lNSbiBGauaGAg9D51_uc-Fk/s/497221906/br/114211506871-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/commissioners</a>.

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider amendments to wildlife regulations that would create a Free-earned Landowner Elk Permit Program at its Oct. 22 meeting in North Platte.The meeting begins at 8 a.m. at Mid-Plains Community College North Campus, W.W. Woods Building, 1101 Halligan Drive.If approved, a person who owns or leases at least 80 acres of farm- or ranchland for agricultural purposes would qualify for an either-sex elk permit following the verification of 10 general antlerless elk harvests; immediate family members would be eligible for the permit.The Commission will consider the procedures and required documentation for the program.The free-earned landowner elk permit was created during the 2021 Legislative Session. The goal is to increase hunting access opportunities and antlerless elk harvest, and to benefit landowners who regularly have elk on their property but can’t always draw a landowner permit.Staff also will recommend the Commission approve an elk management plan, which describes the agency’s goal of managing elk at acceptable population levels while providing Nebraskans with quality hunting and viewing opportunities.The Commission also will consider amending park regulations to increase the nonresident vehicle park entry permit fees to two times the resident vehicle park entry permits. Technical language regarding the resident disabled veteran park permit also would be updated.In addition, the Commission will consider amendments to sport fishing orders regarding bag limits, possession limits, length limits and open areas as follows:Black bass – A proposed change would expand the area where there is no minimum length limit on smallmouth bass to: the NPPD Canal starting at the Sutherland Reservoir outlet to the confluence with the South Platte River in Lincoln County, including Lake Maloney.Bufflehead Wildlife Management Area and David City Ponds would be added to the list of waters where the minimum length limit on largemouth bass is 21 inches.Striped bass, white bass and striped bass hybrid – Wagon Train Reservoir would be removed from the list of waters where the exception for bag limit is three fish in the daily bag.Channel catfish – Box Butte Reservoir would be added to the list of waters where the exception for bag limit states it shall not include more than one fish 30 inches or greater in length.Archery fishing – Technical language would be updated on Missouri River seasons and closed areas.Lake McConaughy – It would be illegal to possess wipers on Lonergan Creek from its junction at the lakeshore of Lake McConaughy upstream to and including the culvert under Highway 92.In other business, the Commission will consider:• allowing hunting in some state parks and state historical parks;• approving a permanent 100-foot-wide right-of-way easement to Cherry County for maintenance of a road at Cottonwood-Steverson Wildlife Management Area; and• the proposed meeting schedule for 2022: January, Lincoln; March, Niobrara State Park; April, Ogallala; June, Lexington; August, Sidney; October, Broken Bow.Staff also will report on an elk hunting season update, west-central Nebraska outreach efforts, an environmental report, and results of the Education Workgroup Community Survey.A complete agenda is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEwMTguNDc1Mzk0MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb21taXNzaW9uZXJzLyJ9.j7By50kxYRrnQ-SjB0S3lNSbiBGauaGAg9D51_uc-Fk/s/497221906/br/114211506871-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/commissioners</a>.

Commission will consider Free-earned Landowner Elk Permit Program

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific and its labor unions are suing each other to determine whether the railroad has the authority to require its employees to get vaccinated against the coronavirus. 

The unions argue that the Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad should have negotiated with them before announcing it would require all employees to get the shots. 

The railroad contends in its own lawsuit that it believes it has the authority to require the vaccine under its existing contracts because it can set standards for when employees are fit for duty. 

Union Pacific announced its mandate requiring all employees to be vaccinated by December 8 earlier this month.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific and its labor unions are suing each other to determine whether the railroad has the authority to require its employees to get vaccinated against the coronavirus. The unions argue that the Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad should have negotiated with them before announcing it would require all employees to get the shots. The railroad contends in its own lawsuit that it believes it has the authority to require the vaccine under its existing contracts because it can set standards for when employees are fit for duty. Union Pacific announced its mandate requiring all employees to be vaccinated by December 8 earlier this month.

Union Pacific and its unions sue each other over vaccine

On October 6th, I traveled to Texas to get a firsthand look at the deteriorating conditions along our country’s southern border.&nbsp; The Biden-Harris Administration’s rush to undo Trump’s immigration policies has created a humanitarian and security disaster that continues to unfold.&nbsp; Over the last several months, law enforcement in Texas has been overwhelmed with the surge of illegal crossings as the federal government fails to do its job. &nbsp;States like Nebraska have stepped up to support Texas, sending state troopers to provide assistance.

Even in the midst of this chaos, many men and women are making immense sacrifices to keep our communities safe.&nbsp; Thank you to the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, National Guard, and other law enforcement for working through this crisis.&nbsp; They truly are heroes who deserve our thanks and our support.&nbsp; With the proper resources, they can end Biden’s border crisis and help restore order at the border.&nbsp; We are indebted to them for their service, and need to keep them in our prayers.

The situation on the border has changed very quickly with the new administration. &nbsp;Under President Trump’s leadership in 2017, arrests on the border hit a 45-year low as deportations increased.&nbsp; While the Trump Administration prioritized border security and reduced illegal border crossings, President Biden’s reckless policies have reignited the crisis.&nbsp; Last year, there were around 270,000 illegal crossings through the first 8 months of the year. &nbsp;During the same time period in 2021, there have been over 1.3 million. &nbsp;That’s nearly a fivefold increase since President Biden took office.&nbsp; Vice President Kamala Harris has also failed to show leadership on the issue—even though the President tasked her with addressing this crisis.&nbsp; She has given speeches, but has yet to offer a meaningful policy proposal to address the crisis.

As border crossings have surged, deportations dropped to record lows under the Biden Administration this spring.&nbsp; On September 30th, the Biden-Harris Administration announced it will no longer deport illegal immigrants solely for entering the country unlawfully.&nbsp; Additionally, the administration has announced they will no longer conduct workplace immigration operations. &nbsp;These new policies further weaken enforcement of immigration law, and send the signal that it’s ok to come to our country illegally.

The situation on the southern border has a very real impact on Nebraska and other states in our region.&nbsp; Cartels in Mexico are exploiting the current crisis to evade law enforcement and sneak illicit drugs into the U.S. &nbsp;On September 27th, the DEA issued an alert to warn that criminal drug organizations are producing counterfeit pills containing fentanyl that resemble prescription drugs like oxycodone.&nbsp; They’re selling these drugs through online platforms to anyone with access to a smartphone.&nbsp; According to the Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) Omaha Office, most of the drugs in Nebraska containing fentanyl are made in Mexico and transported across the southern border to reach our state.&nbsp; So far, Nebraska has confiscated 25 pounds of fentanyl this year, more than double what was confiscated last year. &nbsp;

Biden’s policies are putting kids and families at risk.&nbsp; In September, the Mexican government reported that human smuggling crimes have more than tripled since 2020 due to major increases in illegal immigration to the United States.&nbsp; Law enforcement in Texas has engaged in far more high-speed chases as smugglers seek to elude capture.&nbsp; NPR reports that the frequency of these chases is endangering local residents:&nbsp; “In the town of Cotulla, located on Interstate 35 north of Laredo, school officials warned parents to be watchful of their children playing outside and walking home from school because the sheriff's department was conducting 8 to 10 high-speed car chases a day,” with criminals often bailing out of their vehicles to escape on foot.

The number of unaccompanied minors illegally crossing into the U.S. is on pace to reach record highs in 2021.&nbsp; Along the Tucson segment of the Arizona-Mexico border, U.S. Border Patrol has seen a 189% increase in the number of unaccompanied children attempting illegal entry to the U.S.&nbsp; Last month, agents of the U.S. border patrol found a female toddler and her baby brother who had been abandoned in vegetation along the Rio Grande River.&nbsp; While these children were rescued, others haven’t been as fortunate.&nbsp; The bodies of an 11-year old girl and her mother were discovered in the Arizona desert in August after they tried to make an illegal crossing.&nbsp; Law enforcement was able to rescue a 2-year old boy who was with them.&nbsp; According to extended family members, they had been abandoned by the human smuggler who had taken them across the border. &nbsp;

While the urgency of this crisis can hardly be overstated, President Biden seems to think it will simply go away if he ignores it long enough.&nbsp; But it’s not going away—it’s only getting worse.&nbsp; That’s why I’ve worked closely with fellow governors to put together a ten-point plan to address the border crisis.&nbsp; Among other steps, our plans calls for the Biden Administration to:

These are some of the steps that can help secure the southern border and protect our communities.&nbsp; We know these policies worked because they worked under the Trump Administration, and they will work again when they are put to use.&nbsp; You can read our full plan by going to my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>. &nbsp;If you have questions about it, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp;

By Gov. Pete RickettsOn October 6th, I traveled to Texas to get a firsthand look at the deteriorating conditions along our country’s southern border.&nbsp; The Biden-Harris Administration’s rush to undo Trump’s immigration policies has created a humanitarian and security disaster that continues to unfold.&nbsp; Over the last several months, law enforcement in Texas has been overwhelmed with the surge of illegal crossings as the federal government fails to do its job. &nbsp;States like Nebraska have stepped up to support Texas, sending state troopers to provide assistance.Even in the midst of this chaos, many men and women are making immense sacrifices to keep our communities safe.&nbsp; Thank you to the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, National Guard, and other law enforcement for working through this crisis.&nbsp; They truly are heroes who deserve our thanks and our support.&nbsp; With the proper resources, they can end Biden’s border crisis and help restore order at the border.&nbsp; We are indebted to them for their service, and need to keep them in our prayers.The situation on the border has changed very quickly with the new administration. &nbsp;Under President Trump’s leadership in 2017, arrests on the border hit a 45-year low as deportations increased.&nbsp; While the Trump Administration prioritized border security and reduced illegal border crossings, President Biden’s reckless policies have reignited the crisis.&nbsp; Last year, there were around 270,000 illegal crossings through the first 8 months of the year. &nbsp;During the same time period in 2021, there have been over 1.3 million. &nbsp;That’s nearly a fivefold increase since President Biden took office.&nbsp; Vice President Kamala Harris has also failed to show leadership on the issue—even though the President tasked her with addressing this crisis.&nbsp; She has given speeches, but has yet to offer a meaningful policy proposal to address the crisis.As border crossings have surged, deportations dropped to record lows under the Biden Administration this spring.&nbsp; On September 30th, the Biden-Harris Administration announced it will no longer deport illegal immigrants solely for entering the country unlawfully.&nbsp; Additionally, the administration has announced they will no longer conduct workplace immigration operations. &nbsp;These new policies further weaken enforcement of immigration law, and send the signal that it’s ok to come to our country illegally.The situation on the southern border has a very real impact on Nebraska and other states in our region.&nbsp; Cartels in Mexico are exploiting the current crisis to evade law enforcement and sneak illicit drugs into the U.S. &nbsp;On September 27th, the DEA issued an alert to warn that criminal drug organizations are producing counterfeit pills containing fentanyl that resemble prescription drugs like oxycodone.&nbsp; They’re selling these drugs through online platforms to anyone with access to a smartphone.&nbsp; According to the Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) Omaha Office, most of the drugs in Nebraska containing fentanyl are made in Mexico and transported across the southern border to reach our state.&nbsp; So far, Nebraska has confiscated 25 pounds of fentanyl this year, more than double what was confiscated last year. &nbsp;Biden’s policies are putting kids and families at risk.&nbsp; In September, the Mexican government reported that human smuggling crimes have more than tripled since 2020 due to major increases in illegal immigration to the United States.&nbsp; Law enforcement in Texas has engaged in far more high-speed chases as smugglers seek to elude capture.&nbsp; NPR reports that the frequency of these chases is endangering local residents:&nbsp; “In the town of Cotulla, located on Interstate 35 north of Laredo, school officials warned parents to be watchful of their children playing outside and walking home from school because the sheriff's department was conducting 8 to 10 high-speed car chases a day,” with criminals often bailing out of their vehicles to escape on foot.The number of unaccompanied minors illegally crossing into the U.S. is on pace to reach record highs in 2021.&nbsp; Along the Tucson segment of the Arizona-Mexico border, U.S. Border Patrol has seen a 189% increase in the number of unaccompanied children attempting illegal entry to the U.S.&nbsp; Last month, agents of the U.S. border patrol found a female toddler and her baby brother who had been abandoned in vegetation along the Rio Grande River.&nbsp; While these children were rescued, others haven’t been as fortunate.&nbsp; The bodies of an 11-year old girl and her mother were discovered in the Arizona desert in August after they tried to make an illegal crossing.&nbsp; Law enforcement was able to rescue a 2-year old boy who was with them.&nbsp; According to extended family members, they had been abandoned by the human smuggler who had taken them across the border. &nbsp;While the urgency of this crisis can hardly be overstated, President Biden seems to think it will simply go away if he ignores it long enough.&nbsp; But it’s not going away—it’s only getting worse.&nbsp; That’s why I’ve worked closely with fellow governors to put together a ten-point plan to address the border crisis.&nbsp; Among other steps, our plans calls for the Biden Administration to:<ul>
 <li>Continue Title 42 public health restrictions</li><li>Fully reinstate the Migrant Protocol Protections</li><li>Finish securing the border</li><li>End catch and release</li><li>Clear the judicial backlog</li><li>Resume the deportation of all criminals</li><li>Dedicate federal resources to eradicate human trafficking and drug trafficking</li><li>Re-enter all agreements with our Northern Triangle partners and Mexico</li><li>Send a clear message to potential migrants</li><li>Deploy more federal law enforcement officers</li>
 </ul>These are some of the steps that can help secure the southern border and protect our communities.&nbsp; We know these policies worked because they worked under the Trump Administration, and they will work again when they are put to use.&nbsp; You can read our full plan by going to my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>. &nbsp;If you have questions about it, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts: Fixing our broken southern border

By National Weather Service in North Platte

A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for northwest Nebraska tonight into tomorrow morning. 

Snow accumulations of 1 to 4 inches are possible. 

Snow covered roads may lead to difficult travel conditions.

By National Weather Service in North Platte<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634690239179.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for northwest Nebraska tonight into tomorrow morning. Snow accumulations of 1 to 4 inches are possible. Snow covered roads may lead to difficult travel conditions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634690164785.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Winter Weather Advisory issued for northern Panhandle 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A federal grand jury has indicted U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska, accusing him of lying to the FBI and concealing information from federal agents who were investigating campaign contributions funneled to him from a Nigerian billionaire. 

The U.S. attorney’s office announced that the federal grand jury in Los Angeles had indicted the nine-term Republican on one charge of scheming to falsify and conceal material facts and two counts of making false statements to federal investigators. 

The congresssman is proclaiming his innocence and promising to fight the charges. 

Fortenberry says in a YouTube video posted Monday night that he was “shocked” and “stunned” by the allegations.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A federal grand jury has indicted U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska, accusing him of lying to the FBI and concealing information from federal agents who were investigating campaign contributions funneled to him from a Nigerian billionaire. The U.S. attorney’s office announced that the federal grand jury in Los Angeles had indicted the nine-term Republican on one charge of scheming to falsify and conceal material facts and two counts of making false statements to federal investigators. The congresssman is proclaiming his innocence and promising to fight the charges. Fortenberry says in a YouTube video posted Monday night that he was “shocked” and “stunned” by the allegations.

Indictment accuses Nebraska congressman of lying to FBI

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — A man and a woman died and a 5-year-old child suffered life-threatening injuries in a two-vehicle crash about 5 miles south of Rapid City. 

The South Dakota Department of Public Safety says the 31-year-old male driver of a compact SUV and his 30-year-old female front-seat passenger were pronounced dead at the scene of Sunday afternoon's crash. 

The 5-year-old in the back seat was flown to a Rapid City hospital.

 The adults were wearing seat belts, but it's unclear if the child was.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — A man and a woman died and a 5-year-old child suffered life-threatening injuries in a two-vehicle crash about 5 miles south of Rapid City. The South Dakota Department of Public Safety says the 31-year-old male driver of a compact SUV and his 30-year-old female front-seat passenger were pronounced dead at the scene of Sunday afternoon's crash. The 5-year-old in the back seat was flown to a Rapid City hospital. The adults were wearing seat belts, but it's unclear if the child was.

2 dead; child sustains life-threatening injuries in crash near Rapid City 

Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson boosters are now awaiting final decision from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). The FDA approved the boosters late last week. Residents will be notified when available in the Panhandle.

Moderna and Pfizer: Additional Dose (28 days)

A new, free COVID testing opportunity for symptomatic and asymptomatic residents will be available at Chadron Community Hospital beginning Thursday, October 21. This will be accessible Monday-Friday, 9am-2pm. Appointments are encouraged at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/3z8jwsy5" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/3z8jwsy5</a>.

Vaccinations have protection against all known variants, including Delta. For anyone age 12 and older, please get vaccinated. COVID vaccine is widely available across the Panhandle and there is no charge for the vaccine.

If you are homebound or have a condition that makes it hard for you to access a COVID vaccine, please call Kim Engel at 308-633-2866 ext 101.

People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.

Unified Command confirms 323 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, October 11.

By PPHDModerna and Johnson &amp; Johnson boosters are now awaiting final decision from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). The FDA approved the boosters late last week. Residents will be notified when available in the Panhandle.Booster? Is it right for you?Moderna and Pfizer: Additional Dose (28 days)<ul>
 <li>Moderately to severely immunocompromised</li>
 </ul>Pfizer: Booster (six months)<ul>
 <li>65+ years</li><li>Long term care residents</li><li>50-64 years at high risk for severe disease</li><li>18-49 years at high risk for severe disease are recommended to weigh their individual benefits with risks</li><li>Persons at high risk for occupational exposure including frontline workers (teachers, healthcare)</li>
 </ul>A new, free COVID testing opportunity for symptomatic and asymptomatic residents will be available at Chadron Community Hospital beginning Thursday, October 21. This will be accessible Monday-Friday, 9am-2pm. Appointments are encouraged at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/3z8jwsy5" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/3z8jwsy5</a>.Vaccinations have protection against all known variants, including Delta. For anyone age 12 and older, please get vaccinated. COVID vaccine is widely available across the Panhandle and there is no charge for the vaccine.<ul>
 <li><a>Box Butte/Grant:&nbsp;</a><a href="https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Dave's Pharmacy Hemingford &amp; Alliance, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5:30 PM (Pfizer 2 PM- 5:30 PM)</li><li>Alliance Community Pharmacy, Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM - 6 PM</li><li>Cheyenne/Deuel:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>During COVID clinic hours visit&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p</a>&nbsp;for days and hours</li><li>Dawes/Sioux:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Western Community Health Resources, Monday-Friday, 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM</li><li>Garden: To schedule an appointment visit&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;- provider will call you</li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Regional West Garden County Clinic Front Desk, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM</li><li>Kimball:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Kimball Health Services, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM</li><li>Morrill:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Morrill County Hospital Clinic, Wednesdays, 8 AM - 4 PM</li><li>Sheridan:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Gordon Rural Health Clinic, Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM- 9:30 AM</li><li>Scotts Bluff/Banner:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/hkw7wk2p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/hkw7wk2p</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/vaccination/covid-19?ban=covid_vaccine1_landing_schedule" target="_blank">walgreens.com</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Gering CAPWN Health Center, Monday-Friday, 9 AM-12 PM &amp; 1 PM-4 PM</li><li>Scottsbluff County Immunization Clinic, Monday-Friday, 9:40 AM-12:30 PM &amp; 1:30 PM-5:30 PM</li>
 </ul>If you are homebound or have a condition that makes it hard for you to access a COVID vaccine, please call Kim Engel at 308-633-2866 ext 101.People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>. Unified Command confirms 323 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, October 11.<figure>
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PPHD: 323 more virus cases reported in Panhandle

Karen Benzel discusses hunger prevention efforts including the annual holiday gift baskets.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Karen Benzel, 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=bcqxc-110ada0-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Karen Benzel discusses hunger prevention efforts including the annual holiday gift baskets.

POST PODCAST: Karen Benzel, United Way of Western Nebraska

Thursday, October 21 from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Domestic violence thrives in silence. This October, in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, The DOVES&nbsp;Program, Bellevue University and the Western Nebraska Community College Criminal Justice Club and Cougar Strides Program are hosting “Purple Thursday” at WNCC’s Scottsbluff Campus on October 21.

Students, faculty and staff are asked to wear purple to show&nbsp;support for survivors and their commitment to ending violence. The “Purple Thursday” booth will run from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in the Pit. Participants can pose for “I Wear Purple” photos, spin a prize wheel for purple swag and enter into a drawing for prizes from Cougar Strides.

 Photos will be shared on DOVES social media with the hashtags #Every1KnowsSome1, #PurpleThursday, #TheDOVESProgram.

 Community members can also participate by taking their own Purple Thursday photos and sharing it with the hashtags.&nbsp;

Event:&nbsp;Purple Thursday at WNCCDate &amp; Time:&nbsp;Thursday, October 21 from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.Location:&nbsp;The PitScottsbluff Campus - Main BuildingBackground:Domestic violence thrives in silence. This October, in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, The DOVES&nbsp;Program, Bellevue University and the Western Nebraska Community College Criminal Justice Club and Cougar Strides Program are hosting “Purple Thursday” at WNCC’s Scottsbluff Campus on October 21.Students, faculty and staff are asked to wear purple to show&nbsp;support for survivors and their commitment to ending violence. The “Purple Thursday” booth will run from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in the Pit. Participants can pose for “I Wear Purple” photos, spin a prize wheel for purple swag and enter into a drawing for prizes from Cougar Strides. Photos will be shared on DOVES social media with the hashtags #Every1KnowsSome1, #PurpleThursday, #TheDOVESProgram. Community members can also participate by taking their own Purple Thursday photos and sharing it with the hashtags.&nbsp;

WNCC Criminal Justice Club hosting 'Purple' event for domestic violence awareness

Saturday brought a lot of smiles, a few tears, and plenty of good memories for the 10 new members of the Alliance High School Activities Hall of Fame.&nbsp; This years ceremony included the 2020 and 2021 Class.&nbsp; The common theme for all the inductees, in their remarks, were family, faith, former coaches, teachers and teammates and the opportunities they had growing up in Alliance.&nbsp; It was clear that this meant somthing special.&nbsp;&nbsp;

2020 inductee Chad Thompson, AHS Class of&nbsp; 1994,&nbsp; was unable to attend.

A side note about 2021 inductee Jim Kettelhut.&nbsp; AHS Supt. of Schools Dr. Troy Unzicker, who served as the Master of Ceremonies,&nbsp; said in researching Jim's sports achievements he came across a Lincoln Journal-Star article from May of 1961,&nbsp; following the State Track and Field meet. The focus of the article was Omaha Central Athlete Gale Sayers setting the State Long Jump record of 24'10 1/2",&nbsp; but it also featured a picture of Jim winning the 880 yard run,&nbsp; in what was then, a record time of 1:57. Not often can anyone say they shared the stage with a future NFL Hall of Famer.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Thanks to Dr. Unzicker for the photos and to longtime AHS Teacher and Coach Steve Nelson for helping host the event.&nbsp; Congratulations to the AHS Activities Hall of Fame Class of 2020 and 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634650878164.jpeg" alt="2020 and 2021 Hall of Fame Class.&nbsp; L-R&nbsp; Jim Kettelhut Family, Tracy Kelly Kearney, Kevin Wilkinson, Kayla Friesen Coffee, Shelly Langemeier Eisenreich, Stacy Langemeier Girard's daughter, Paul&nbsp; Stavropoulos, Dennis Girard, Jamie Tomlin. Not Pictured, Chad Thompson." />
 <figcaption>2020 and 2021 Hall of Fame Class.&nbsp; L-R&nbsp; Jim Kettelhut Family, Tracy Kelly Kearney, Kevin Wilkinson, Kayla Friesen Coffee, Shelly Langemeier Eisenreich, Stacy Langemeier Girard's daughter, Paul&nbsp; Stavropoulos, Dennis Girard, Jamie Tomlin. Not Pictured, Chad Thompson.</figcaption>
 </figure>By: Mike GlesingerSaturday brought a lot of smiles, a few tears, and plenty of good memories for the 10 new members of the Alliance High School Activities Hall of Fame.&nbsp; This years ceremony included the 2020 and 2021 Class.&nbsp; The common theme for all the inductees, in their remarks, were family, faith, former coaches, teachers and teammates and the opportunities they had growing up in Alliance.&nbsp; It was clear that this meant somthing special.&nbsp;&nbsp;Class of 2020<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634651163771.jpeg" alt="Dennis Girard AHS Class of 1972" />
 <figcaption>Dennis Girard AHS Class of 1972</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634651205659.jpeg" alt="Tracy Kelly Kearney AHS Class of 1992 and family" />
 <figcaption>Tracy Kelly Kearney AHS Class of 1992 and family</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634651276172.jpeg" alt="Jamie Tomlin AHS Class of 1989 and family" />
 <figcaption>Jamie Tomlin AHS Class of 1989 and family</figcaption>
 </figure>2020 inductee Chad Thompson, AHS Class of&nbsp; 1994,&nbsp; was unable to attend.Class of 2021<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634651341916.jpeg" alt="Paul Stavropoulos AHS Class of 1974" />
 <figcaption>Paul Stavropoulos AHS Class of 1974</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634651534979.jpeg" alt="Kayla Friesen Coffee AHS Class of 2008 and family" />
 <figcaption>Kayla Friesen Coffee AHS Class of 2008 and family</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634651587099.jpeg" alt="Kevin Wilkinson AHS Class of 1975 and family" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Wilkinson AHS Class of 1975 and family</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634651637068.jpeg" alt="Shelly Eisenreich, 2003 and Stacy Girard, 2005 (not pictured) and Langemeier family" />
 <figcaption>Shelly Eisenreich, 2003 and Stacy Girard, 2005 (not pictured) and Langemeier family</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634651790781.jpeg" alt="Family of Jim Kettelhut AHS Class of 1961" />
 <figcaption>Family of Jim Kettelhut AHS Class of 1961</figcaption>
 </figure>A side note about 2021 inductee Jim Kettelhut.&nbsp; AHS Supt. of Schools Dr. Troy Unzicker, who served as the Master of Ceremonies,&nbsp; said in researching Jim's sports achievements he came across a Lincoln Journal-Star article from May of 1961,&nbsp; following the State Track and Field meet. The focus of the article was Omaha Central Athlete Gale Sayers setting the State Long Jump record of 24'10 1/2",&nbsp; but it also featured a picture of Jim winning the 880 yard run,&nbsp; in what was then, a record time of 1:57. Not often can anyone say they shared the stage with a future NFL Hall of Famer.&nbsp; &nbsp;Thanks to Dr. Unzicker for the photos and to longtime AHS Teacher and Coach Steve Nelson for helping host the event.&nbsp; Congratulations to the AHS Activities Hall of Fame Class of 2020 and 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1570561923395.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

AHS Activities Hall of Fame a special event for Inductees--with photos

Chadron Community Hospital to offer free COVID testing 

Chadron - The City of Chadron is working with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission in gathering names of people wishing to be placed on the deer donation list, for the deer taken as part of the deprivation process in and around the City of Chadron.

 If you wish to have your name placed on the list, please contact Katie Parks at (308)432-0510.

Chadron - The City of Chadron is working with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission in gathering names of people wishing to be placed on the deer donation list, for the deer taken as part of the deprivation process in and around the City of Chadron. If you wish to have your name placed on the list, please contact Katie Parks at (308)432-0510.

City of Chadron gathering names for deer donation list

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska is launching a new, $10 million ad campaign using federal coronavirus relief money to try to lure people from other states and fill jobs amid a severe worker shortage. 

Gov. Pete Ricketts unveiled a 104-second ad that will be chopped into segments and aired in major media markets within 500 miles of Nebraska, including Minneapolis, Kansas City, Denver and Chicago, as well as in Austin, Texas and Silicon Valley. 

The ad features numerous clips of people working in high-tech jobs, enjoying the outdoors, and buying $225,000 houses. 

Actor Adam Devine, an Omaha native, riffs on the the state’s slogan, “Nebraska, the good life,” by talking about all the “good” things the state offers.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska is launching a new, $10 million ad campaign using federal coronavirus relief money to try to lure people from other states and fill jobs amid a severe worker shortage. Gov. Pete Ricketts unveiled a 104-second ad that will be chopped into segments and aired in major media markets within 500 miles of Nebraska, including Minneapolis, Kansas City, Denver and Chicago, as well as in Austin, Texas and Silicon Valley. The ad features numerous clips of people working in high-tech jobs, enjoying the outdoors, and buying $225,000 houses. Actor Adam Devine, an Omaha native, riffs on the the state’s slogan, “Nebraska, the good life,” by talking about all the “good” things the state offers.

Nebraska launches ad campaign with $10M in CARES Act cash

COLUMBUS, Neb. -- Small-business owners in Nebraska are concerned about losing customers during the upcoming holiday season as the U.S. Postal Service makes&nbsp;<a href="https://about.usps.com/what/strategic-plans/delivering-for-america/assets/USPS-Fact-Sheet_FCM-Service-Standard-Change.pdf" target="_blank">additional changes</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing costs. David Bell, owner of Bell Putters, an online golf equipment business in Columbus, has been struggling with slow delivery since the onset of COVID. Bell worries additional slowdowns will make it much harder to keep his doors open. "We rely on the Postal Service to ship products all over the country, and in some cases outside the country," Bell explained. "Obviously, any slowdown in service is a negative and hurts your business." The Postal Service has projected mail traveling less than 1,000 miles will now take at least three days to arrive, and mail traveling more than 1,900 miles will take five days or more. The latest changes, which also will reduce post office hours, are part of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy's 10-year plan, called "<a href="https://about.usps.com/what/strategic-plans/delivering-for-america/" target="_blank">Delivering for America</a>." Christopher Shaw, an author and historian of the U.S. Postal Service, noted the Postal Regulatory Commission has suggested cost savings in Dejoy's plan are likely exaggerated. He added slower service and reduced postal hours could cause more people to take their business elsewhere. "When you reduce service, you're likely to also drive away patrons," Shaw pointed out. "So the revenue effects of this are very much up in the air, and could actually end up being potentially even the opposite of what Dejoy expects them to be." Bell said he is concerned about the long-term viability of the nation's mail system responsible for delivering Social Security and veterans benefit checks, prescription medicines and more to all Americans regardless of where they live. "The loss of the post office would be a great loss to small communities like ours," Bell contended. "We rely on the post office. I think it's very important that the postal service should be maintained and protected."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575928088086.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska News ConnectionBy Eric GalatasCOLUMBUS, Neb. -- Small-business owners in Nebraska are concerned about losing customers during the upcoming holiday season as the U.S. Postal Service makes&nbsp;<a href="https://about.usps.com/what/strategic-plans/delivering-for-america/assets/USPS-Fact-Sheet_FCM-Service-Standard-Change.pdf" target="_blank">additional changes</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing costs. David Bell, owner of Bell Putters, an online golf equipment business in Columbus, has been struggling with slow delivery since the onset of COVID. Bell worries additional slowdowns will make it much harder to keep his doors open. "We rely on the Postal Service to ship products all over the country, and in some cases outside the country," Bell explained. "Obviously, any slowdown in service is a negative and hurts your business." The Postal Service has projected mail traveling less than 1,000 miles will now take at least three days to arrive, and mail traveling more than 1,900 miles will take five days or more. The latest changes, which also will reduce post office hours, are part of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy's 10-year plan, called "<a href="https://about.usps.com/what/strategic-plans/delivering-for-america/" target="_blank">Delivering for America</a>." Christopher Shaw, an author and historian of the U.S. Postal Service, noted the Postal Regulatory Commission has suggested cost savings in Dejoy's plan are likely exaggerated. He added slower service and reduced postal hours could cause more people to take their business elsewhere. "When you reduce service, you're likely to also drive away patrons," Shaw pointed out. "So the revenue effects of this are very much up in the air, and could actually end up being potentially even the opposite of what Dejoy expects them to be." Bell said he is concerned about the long-term viability of the nation's mail system responsible for delivering Social Security and veterans benefit checks, prescription medicines and more to all Americans regardless of where they live. "The loss of the post office would be a great loss to small communities like ours," Bell contended. "We rely on the post office. I think it's very important that the postal service should be maintained and protected."

Postal Service cost-cutting measures worry Nebraska business owners

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska expects to be charged with lying to the FBI while federal agents were investigating campaign contributions funneled to him from a Nigerian billionaire. 

The nine-term Republican is proclaiming his innocence and promising to fight the charges. 

Fortenberry says in a YouTube video posted Monday night that he was “shocked” and “stunned” by the allegations. 

Knowingly making false statements to a federal agent is a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison.

 The expected indictment stems from an FBI investigation into $180,000 in illegal campaign contributions from Gilbert Chagoury, including $30,200 to Fortenberry in 2016. 

The contributions were funneled through a group of Californians from 2012 through 2016.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska expects to be charged with lying to the FBI while federal agents were investigating campaign contributions funneled to him from a Nigerian billionaire. The nine-term Republican is proclaiming his innocence and promising to fight the charges. Fortenberry says in a YouTube video posted Monday night that he was “shocked” and “stunned” by the allegations. Knowingly making false statements to a federal agent is a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison. The expected indictment stems from an FBI investigation into $180,000 in illegal campaign contributions from Gilbert Chagoury, including $30,200 to Fortenberry in 2016. The contributions were funneled through a group of Californians from 2012 through 2016.

US Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska expects to be indicted

Governor Pete Ricketts, in accordance with a proclamation from the White House, announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff to honor General Colin Powell, who passed away on Monday.&nbsp; General Powell was a four-star general, recipient of the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, U.S. Secretary of State from 2001-2005, and advisor to four U.S. Presidents.

“Secretary Powell was a great American whose legacy will live on for generations,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“As a soldier in the United States Army, chairman of the Joint Chiefs, and Secretary of State he served our country with honor and distinction.&nbsp; Susanne and I are thinking of the Powell family, and keeping them in our prayers during this difficult time.”

Flags will be flown at half-staff immediately until sunset on October 22, 2021. &nbsp;The proclamation can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmcusercontent.com%2Ff620288bb41dd81f9c715ef4d%2Ffiles%2F9c9de140-03c8-0506-476b-07a2a81360d4%2FDEATH_OF_GENERAL_COLIN_POWELL.pdf&amp;data=04%7C01%7Cjim.buehler%40nebraska.gov%7C135d8dd2f7154130d25208d9927eddfc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637701895848039641%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=6JpwzNlBRF%2FvrtcvGWWm4qaP6CNYuO%2F15uCxfsuwxFc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565011505111.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Governor RickettsGovernor Pete Ricketts, in accordance with a proclamation from the White House, announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff to honor General Colin Powell, who passed away on Monday.&nbsp; General Powell was a four-star general, recipient of the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, U.S. Secretary of State from 2001-2005, and advisor to four U.S. Presidents.“Secretary Powell was a great American whose legacy will live on for generations,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“As a soldier in the United States Army, chairman of the Joint Chiefs, and Secretary of State he served our country with honor and distinction.&nbsp; Susanne and I are thinking of the Powell family, and keeping them in our prayers during this difficult time.”Flags will be flown at half-staff immediately until sunset on October 22, 2021. &nbsp;The proclamation can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmcusercontent.com%2Ff620288bb41dd81f9c715ef4d%2Ffiles%2F9c9de140-03c8-0506-476b-07a2a81360d4%2FDEATH_OF_GENERAL_COLIN_POWELL.pdf&amp;data=04%7C01%7Cjim.buehler%40nebraska.gov%7C135d8dd2f7154130d25208d9927eddfc%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637701895848039641%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=6JpwzNlBRF%2FvrtcvGWWm4qaP6CNYuO%2F15uCxfsuwxFc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Flags in Nebraska to be lowered in honor of Gen. Colin Powell

Alliance – Join Bernie Burgess at the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center on Thursday, October 21 at 6:30 p.m. for a look into this interesting book collection and a visit with the also interesting author. If you enjoy a good mystery, come and check out this series.

Bernard H Burgess (aka: Bernie) was born in Alliance and raised on a cattle ranch south of Ashby. A one room country school prepared him for high school at Hyannis and a degree from the University of Nebraska. There, he entered the Air Force from the ROTC program. Following a 21-year career as an officer and pilot, He had a stint owning and operating a bed and breakfast in Cody Wyoming where he was a popular freelance writer for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. This experience whetted his appetite for pursuing a long standing passion for writing mysteries.

Bernie eventually retired to a small town in Arkansas. Working as a private investigator during his early time in Arkansas gave him a background for solving problems facing people, especially when a loved one goes missing.

He began writing mysteries in 2018 with the self-publication of “Bert and Nora: The Nickel Dime Murders.” Since then Bernie has now published his fifth book in the “Bert and Norah Mysteries” series. Bernie considers his writing to be in a genre by itself as they are not just mysteries but have a strong undercurrent love story and a touch of the supernatural.

In order, the Bert and Norah series include: “The Nickel Dime Murders”, “The Missing”, “Into the Light”, “Murder in the Ozarks” and “Evil Runs Through It”

Alliance – Join Bernie Burgess at the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center on Thursday, October 21 at 6:30 p.m. for a look into this interesting book collection and a visit with the also interesting author. If you enjoy a good mystery, come and check out this series.Bernard H Burgess (aka: Bernie) was born in Alliance and raised on a cattle ranch south of Ashby. A one room country school prepared him for high school at Hyannis and a degree from the University of Nebraska. There, he entered the Air Force from the ROTC program. Following a 21-year career as an officer and pilot, He had a stint owning and operating a bed and breakfast in Cody Wyoming where he was a popular freelance writer for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. This experience whetted his appetite for pursuing a long standing passion for writing mysteries.Bernie eventually retired to a small town in Arkansas. Working as a private investigator during his early time in Arkansas gave him a background for solving problems facing people, especially when a loved one goes missing.He began writing mysteries in 2018 with the self-publication of “Bert and Nora: The Nickel Dime Murders.” Since then Bernie has now published his fifth book in the “Bert and Norah Mysteries” series. Bernie considers his writing to be in a genre by itself as they are not just mysteries but have a strong undercurrent love story and a touch of the supernatural.In order, the Bert and Norah series include: “The Nickel Dime Murders”, “The Missing”, “Into the Light”, “Murder in the Ozarks” and “Evil Runs Through It”

Bernie Burgess to speak at Knight Museum & Sandhills Center

Alliance – The Alliance Public Library is hosting several events during Halloween week.

Story Time for ages 3-6 will feature Spooky Stories, Halloween Safety with the Alliance Police Department and a Costume Parade on Tuesday, October 26 at 10 a.m. and Thursday, October 28 at 1 p.m. in the new Children’s Room. Remember to wear your Halloween costumes. Also for Preschool through grade 2, the search for Gertie the Ghost continues through Saturday, October 30 during library hours. Find Gertie in the library and return her to the Circulation Desk for a prize, with one prize per child during the month.

For grades 3-6, the Youth Book Club will share “The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan, first in the Percy Jackson &amp; the Olympians series. Discussion time is Tuesday, October 26 from 4:30 -5:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the Circulation Desk with no fee, since this is a book kit from the Nebraska Library Commission.

For grades Kindergarten and up, you are invited to join in Halloween movie fun. Movie Night at the Alliance Public Library will be Friday, October 29 from 6-8 p.m. featuring “The Nightmare Before Christmas”. Then on Saturday, October 30 from 3-5 p.m., the Movie Matinee will be a double feature of “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” and “The Dog Who Saved Christmas”. For both movies, dress in your Halloween outfit for a Costume Contest and refreshments will be provided by the Alliance Public Library Foundation!

For more information, visit our Alliance Public Library Facebook page and website, or contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Librarian at 762-1387.

Alliance – The Alliance Public Library is hosting several events during Halloween week.Story Time for ages 3-6 will feature Spooky Stories, Halloween Safety with the Alliance Police Department and a Costume Parade on Tuesday, October 26 at 10 a.m. and Thursday, October 28 at 1 p.m. in the new Children’s Room. Remember to wear your Halloween costumes. Also for Preschool through grade 2, the search for Gertie the Ghost continues through Saturday, October 30 during library hours. Find Gertie in the library and return her to the Circulation Desk for a prize, with one prize per child during the month.For grades 3-6, the Youth Book Club will share “The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan, first in the Percy Jackson &amp; the Olympians series. Discussion time is Tuesday, October 26 from 4:30 -5:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the Circulation Desk with no fee, since this is a book kit from the Nebraska Library Commission.For grades Kindergarten and up, you are invited to join in Halloween movie fun. Movie Night at the Alliance Public Library will be Friday, October 29 from 6-8 p.m. featuring “The Nightmare Before Christmas”. Then on Saturday, October 30 from 3-5 p.m., the Movie Matinee will be a double feature of “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” and “The Dog Who Saved Christmas”. For both movies, dress in your Halloween outfit for a Costume Contest and refreshments will be provided by the Alliance Public Library Foundation!For more information, visit our Alliance Public Library Facebook page and website, or contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Librarian at 762-1387.

Alliance library to host several Halloween events

By&nbsp;Jack Arterburn, Nebraska Extention

Sheridan County Extension moved into a larger facility at 800 S. Loofborrow Street in Rushville in September. 

The new office includes a large meeting room for onsite programs, a room for robotics and sewing, an additional office for regional staff, and a fenced yard.

Nebraska Extension is a nationally respected educational leader working in a rapidly changing world to help Nebraskans enhance their lives through research-based education. Nebraska Extension brings University of Nebraska expertise and research in 8 key areas of impact directly to Nebraskans from all walks of life. Extension delivers research-based knowledge to people through direct teaching, experiential learning opportunities, and publications focused on strengthening families, inspiring communities, empowering young people, conserving and protecting natural resources, and advancing farms, ranches, and businesses.

Onsite staff include Jack Arterburn, Beef Systems Educator and Sheridan County Extension Office Lead Educator; Marie Nelson, 4-H Extension Assistant; and Wendy Andersen, Office Manager. Regional staff include Rob Eirich, Extension Zone Coordinator, based at the Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center; Melissa Mracek, 4-H Youth Development Educator, based in Box Butte County; John Thomas, Cropping Systems Educator, based in Box Butte County; Erin Kampbell, Early Childhood Educator, based in Dawes County; and Jenny Nixon, Rural Prosperity Nebraska Educator, based in Sioux County.

Come see us at our new office location during our open house on October 24 4-5 p.m., 800 South Loofborrow, Rushville.

By&nbsp;Jack Arterburn, Nebraska ExtentionSheridan County Extension moved into a larger facility at 800 S. Loofborrow Street in Rushville in September. The new office includes a large meeting room for onsite programs, a room for robotics and sewing, an additional office for regional staff, and a fenced yard.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634575350839.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska Extension is a nationally respected educational leader working in a rapidly changing world to help Nebraskans enhance their lives through research-based education. Nebraska Extension brings University of Nebraska expertise and research in 8 key areas of impact directly to Nebraskans from all walks of life. Extension delivers research-based knowledge to people through direct teaching, experiential learning opportunities, and publications focused on strengthening families, inspiring communities, empowering young people, conserving and protecting natural resources, and advancing farms, ranches, and businesses.Onsite staff include Jack Arterburn, Beef Systems Educator and Sheridan County Extension Office Lead Educator; Marie Nelson, 4-H Extension Assistant; and Wendy Andersen, Office Manager. Regional staff include Rob Eirich, Extension Zone Coordinator, based at the Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center; Melissa Mracek, 4-H Youth Development Educator, based in Box Butte County; John Thomas, Cropping Systems Educator, based in Box Butte County; Erin Kampbell, Early Childhood Educator, based in Dawes County; and Jenny Nixon, Rural Prosperity Nebraska Educator, based in Sioux County.Come see us at our new office location during our open house on October 24 4-5 p.m., 800 South Loofborrow, Rushville.

Sheridan County Extension moves to a new, larger office

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, S.D. – Planning is underway to burn 676 acres of land surrounding the park’s developed area this fall and 669 acres adjacent to the Elk Mountain Campground next spring. The fall burn could occur as early as the week of October 18.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The project area includes dense and open ponderosa pine forest with a grass understory. This is a wildland urban interface area involving structures in the park’s headquarters area and a nearby private residence. Ignition will take place through the utilization of ground resources, and the primary carrier of fire will be grass.&nbsp;National Park Service firefighters with support from other interagency resources will assist with the burn.&nbsp;A media advisory concerning this burn will be released prior to ignition.&nbsp;

“Prescribed burns help reduce the threat of wildfires and allows firefighters to better protect homes and structures,”&nbsp;said park superintendent Leigh Welling. “The primary objectives of this burn are to reduce fuel loading in the ponderosa pine forest and to decrease encroachment of young ponderosa pine onto the prairie, improving the flow of water into the cave.”&nbsp;

During the day of the burn, smoke from the fire may be heavy at times along Highway 385 and visible from the surrounding region. The highway might be closed intermittently for safety reasons. Unless there is significant precipitation, smoke might be seen in the area for several days following the burn. &nbsp;

The Prairie Vista Trail behind the visitor center will be closed during fire operations and possibly for two weeks following the burn. Other impacts to park operations are expected but efforts will be made to minimize visitor impacts.&nbsp;

This fire represents a continuation of the park's prescribed fire program which began in 1972. Segments of the park are burned, under favorable conditions, to simulate natural fires. Prescribed fires maintain the balance between forest and prairie, remove the build-up of dead fuels which reduces the chance of a catastrophic wildfire, and rejuvenate the native prairie grasses.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prescribed fires are carefully conducted under identified and approved prescription conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Park staff consider factors such as humidity, fuel moisture, wind speed and direction and short and long-range weather patterns in establishing the acceptable conditions for conducting a prescribed fire. If the prescribed set of conditions cannot be met on a specific day, park staff will postpone the planned fire.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, S.D. – Planning is underway to burn 676 acres of land surrounding the park’s developed area this fall and 669 acres adjacent to the Elk Mountain Campground next spring. The fall burn could occur as early as the week of October 18.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The project area includes dense and open ponderosa pine forest with a grass understory. This is a wildland urban interface area involving structures in the park’s headquarters area and a nearby private residence. Ignition will take place through the utilization of ground resources, and the primary carrier of fire will be grass.&nbsp;National Park Service firefighters with support from other interagency resources will assist with the burn.&nbsp;A media advisory concerning this burn will be released prior to ignition.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634572130394.jpeg" alt="Map of proposed burn area segmented into 4 blocks of different colors. Highway 385 borders the burn on the east while the park’s boundary borders the burn on the west side.&nbsp;NPS graphic" />
 <figcaption>Map of proposed burn area segmented into 4 blocks of different colors. Highway 385 borders the burn on the east while the park’s boundary borders the burn on the west side.&nbsp;NPS graphic</figcaption>
 </figure>“Prescribed burns help reduce the threat of wildfires and allows firefighters to better protect homes and structures,”&nbsp;said park superintendent Leigh Welling. “The primary objectives of this burn are to reduce fuel loading in the ponderosa pine forest and to decrease encroachment of young ponderosa pine onto the prairie, improving the flow of water into the cave.”&nbsp;During the day of the burn, smoke from the fire may be heavy at times along Highway 385 and visible from the surrounding region. The highway might be closed intermittently for safety reasons. Unless there is significant precipitation, smoke might be seen in the area for several days following the burn. &nbsp;The Prairie Vista Trail behind the visitor center will be closed during fire operations and possibly for two weeks following the burn. Other impacts to park operations are expected but efforts will be made to minimize visitor impacts.&nbsp;This fire represents a continuation of the park's prescribed fire program which began in 1972. Segments of the park are burned, under favorable conditions, to simulate natural fires. Prescribed fires maintain the balance between forest and prairie, remove the build-up of dead fuels which reduces the chance of a catastrophic wildfire, and rejuvenate the native prairie grasses.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Prescribed fires are carefully conducted under identified and approved prescription conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Park staff consider factors such as humidity, fuel moisture, wind speed and direction and short and long-range weather patterns in establishing the acceptable conditions for conducting a prescribed fire. If the prescribed set of conditions cannot be met on a specific day, park staff will postpone the planned fire.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wind Cave National Park prepares for prescribed burn 

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement urging the Nebraska State Board of Education to push back on recent direction from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).&nbsp; The DOJ recently directed the FBI to investigate parents who strongly express disagreement with the policies of their local, taxpayer-funded schools.

“The direction from President Biden’s DOJ to the FBI to investigate concerned parents is appalling and chilling,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “It is not the role of federal officials to intervene in local school board meetings.&nbsp; The DOJ must pull back from this overreach that threatens our First Amendment rights and seeks to marginalize the voices of parents in the education of their children.&nbsp; Any threat deserving investigation should be handled by local law enforcement – not federal officials.&nbsp; I urge the Nebraska State Board of Education to join a growing number of their peers in pushing back on the Department of Justice by making it clear that they will protect free speech and welcome vigorous dialogue on tough topics.”

According to media reports, at least 18 national state school organizations have pushed back on the call for the federal government to conduct such investigations.&nbsp; States include Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia among others.&nbsp; A full list can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdefendinged.org%2Fpress-releases%2Fstate-school-board-associations-responses-to-the-nsba-letter%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C35d3e63855fa4d60cd7508d9923843e9%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637701592675382924%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=5cNNhkPVK1CM1tf8rt5eIaPQ0eFHz81Ix%2BxFPmEEnAA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

A copy of the DOJ’s memo can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.justice.gov%2Fopa%2Fpr%2Fjustice-department-addresses-violent-threats-against-school-officials-and-teachers&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C35d3e63855fa4d60cd7508d9923843e9%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637701592675392881%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=8hc4KCrcqB5WMWvPYMSRq1SSRl2RYZdmOn2fR7T1b8g%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement urging the Nebraska State Board of Education to push back on recent direction from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).&nbsp; The DOJ recently directed the FBI to investigate parents who strongly express disagreement with the policies of their local, taxpayer-funded schools.“The direction from President Biden’s DOJ to the FBI to investigate concerned parents is appalling and chilling,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “It is not the role of federal officials to intervene in local school board meetings.&nbsp; The DOJ must pull back from this overreach that threatens our First Amendment rights and seeks to marginalize the voices of parents in the education of their children.&nbsp; Any threat deserving investigation should be handled by local law enforcement – not federal officials.&nbsp; I urge the Nebraska State Board of Education to join a growing number of their peers in pushing back on the Department of Justice by making it clear that they will protect free speech and welcome vigorous dialogue on tough topics.”According to media reports, at least 18 national state school organizations have pushed back on the call for the federal government to conduct such investigations.&nbsp; States include Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia among others.&nbsp; A full list can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdefendinged.org%2Fpress-releases%2Fstate-school-board-associations-responses-to-the-nsba-letter%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C35d3e63855fa4d60cd7508d9923843e9%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637701592675382924%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=5cNNhkPVK1CM1tf8rt5eIaPQ0eFHz81Ix%2BxFPmEEnAA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.A copy of the DOJ’s memo can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.justice.gov%2Fopa%2Fpr%2Fjustice-department-addresses-violent-threats-against-school-officials-and-teachers&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C35d3e63855fa4d60cd7508d9923843e9%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637701592675392881%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=8hc4KCrcqB5WMWvPYMSRq1SSRl2RYZdmOn2fR7T1b8g%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

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