LINCOLN – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is seeking input on a draft master plan being developed to improve Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park and State Recreation Area in North Platte.

The master plan covers potential new development, programming and recreational activities that enhance the experience for future visitors. The plan incorporates new interpretation and programming goals centered around the life of William "Buffalo Bill" Cody and his home – Scout's Rest Ranch.

The public is invited to attend a virtual public meeting from 5:30-7 p.m. on Sept. 1 via Zoom. Participants will be required to register at outdoornebraska.gov/buffalobillranch or outdoornebraska.gov/buffalobillsra.

The public meeting will consist of a presentation of the purpose, vision and goals of the plan and several potential development concept designs for the historical park and recreation area. Attendees can provide feedback on several proposed development ideas, which are unique to each park area.

“We know that Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park and State Recreation Area are very important family destinations and tourist attractions for the city of North Platte and surrounding areas,” said Jim Swenson, state parks administrator. “We encourage our partners, park guests and anyone with an interest in the park areas to share your thoughts on the draft plans to improve the parks areas for future generations.”

The public also is encouraged to provide additional input through a digital platform, which will go live Sept. 2. It can be accessed at outdoornebraska.gov/buffalobillranch or outdoornebraska.gov/buffalobillsra.

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is seeking input on a draft master plan being developed to improve Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park and State Recreation Area in North Platte.The master plan covers potential new development, programming and recreational activities that enhance the experience for future visitors. The plan incorporates new interpretation and programming goals centered around the life of William "Buffalo Bill" Cody and his home – Scout's Rest Ranch.The public is invited to attend a virtual public meeting from 5:30-7 p.m. on Sept. 1 via Zoom. Participants will be required to register at outdoornebraska.gov/buffalobillranch or outdoornebraska.gov/buffalobillsra.The public meeting will consist of a presentation of the purpose, vision and goals of the plan and several potential development concept designs for the historical park and recreation area. Attendees can provide feedback on several proposed development ideas, which are unique to each park area.“We know that Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park and State Recreation Area are very important family destinations and tourist attractions for the city of North Platte and surrounding areas,” said Jim Swenson, state parks administrator. “We encourage our partners, park guests and anyone with an interest in the park areas to share your thoughts on the draft plans to improve the parks areas for future generations.”The public also is encouraged to provide additional input through a digital platform, which will go live Sept. 2. It can be accessed at outdoornebraska.gov/buffalobillranch or outdoornebraska.gov/buffalobillsra.

Game and Parks seeks input on Buffalo Bill draft master plan

By Kerri Rempp, Discover Northwest Nebraska

HARRISON - The smell of fresh-pressed jeans, newly unboxed boots, hats and horse tack transports visitors to Whiteaker’s back in time to the days when traditional western stores served the ranching communities.

Owned and operated by Joe Whiteaker today, the Harrison institution keeps local and regional cowboys outfitted 90 years after Joe’s parents opened the store in the middle of the Great Depression.

“He said the banks wouldn’t loan him any money,” Joe said of his parent’s effort.

Finally, with an $800 loan from a friend and a line of credit from a wholesale house in Denver, Colorado, E.E. “Abie” and Mary Whiteaker opened for business in the Ted Phillips Building on South Main Street in November 1931. Press Wilson was the store’s first customer, purchasing an overall jacket for $1.69 before the doors officially opened.

Abie, a native of Missouri, had arrived in the area in the spring of 1925, going to work for R.N. Henry at the Golden Rule Store in Crawford. Mary Reed relocated to Crawford from eastern Nebraska around the same time to teach school. The couple married in 1928, the same year Abie was tasked with opening and managing a Golden Rule Store in Harrison.

But within the first year of business, the stock market crashed and the United States plunged into the Great Depression. The Whiteakers were transferred back to Crawford in 1929, but as banks began folding and the economic hardships took their toll on the community, their wages were cut. The couple decided to take the risk of returning to Harrison and opening their own store.

“How well Mary and I remember our starting business.,” Abie wrote in an advertisement in the Harrison Sun. “We had little cash, but through the goodness of the town’s people we managed to open with very little merchandise, which was put on tables and counters while empty boxes filled the shelving.”

Joe said his parents didn’t want the store to look empty on opening day, and that’s why they came up with the idea of filling the shelves with the empty boxes in which their limited merchandise arrived. Three years later, in 1934, the business moved across the corner to the Davis Building.

That December brought some excitement to town when the Sioux National Bank was robbed. According to Abie’s recollections printed in the Harrison Sun, he and Mary were working in the store on Dec. 4 with Jerry Kennedy and Lola Unitt. They were busy with Christmas shoppers when bank employee Harold Jefferies ran in to announce the robbery and urge Abie to join him in chasing after the man, who had headed east.

Jefferies, Abie, Albert Moody and Lawrence Moody jumped in Abie’s car and overtook the man 16-18 miles east of town and ran him off the road. The robber exited his vehicle and came out shooting, Abie wrote.

“I didn’t have a gun, so believe me, I laid close to the running board on the opposite side of the car, and finally after he had emptied his gun and started running down Smiley Canyon, Albert Moody shot him with a big Army rifle. … This was a horrifying experience, and one I care never to repeat. As my car was shot up considerably, the Nebraska Bankers Association and the local bank here paid the difference on a new car for us, a 1935 Ford.”

Joe said his father, who usually walked to work, was truly shaken by the experience.

Whiteaker’s moved to its current location in the Hoyt Building in 1938, sharing the site with the U.S. Post Office, as it does today.

While getting the business off the ground in the Great Depression was no easy feat, Saturday nights at Whiteaker’s was apparently the place to be.

“There would be some 25 or more cowboys who would come to town with their paychecks, and of course we would stay open to accommodate them, sometimes until 11 or 12 o’clock,” Abie wrote in the Harrison Sun. “Their paychecks might not have been very big, but they sure had a good time spending it!”

By 1938, Abie and Mary also had three sons, Robert, Donald and Joe.

Joe doesn’t remember paying much attention to the store as a child –

“I was out mowing yards and making money,” he said, adding that running the store was never in his plans.

“I never did think I wanted to come here.”

All three boys attended Oklahoma A&amp;M and then served in the armed forces – Bob in the Air Force, Donald in the Army and Joe in the Marines.

After ending his stint in the Marines, Joe returned to Harrison, marrying Tonita Anderson, and went to work for the Sioux National Bank for 20 years. They also ranched but gave that up during the 1980s farm crisis.

With Mary’s passing in 1986 and Abie’s health declining, Joe and Tonita took a more active role in the store during the 1980s, but Abie continued to work until his death in 1989.

“The thought of closing (the store) was hard. The town really needed it,” Joe said. Instead, he and Tonita bought out his two brothers, and the days of filling the shelves with empty boxes are long behind them.

“We probably have too much inventory, but you have to manage your orders to make the freight worth it,” Joe said. Every surface of the store is filled with jeans, shirts, boots, hats, belts, ties, jewelry and more.

Abby Edmund, who has worked at Whiteaker’s for about 10 years, said cowboys from Lusk to Crawford know they can get what they need. Written down in the back are the styles and sizes of boots, jeans and hats that his loyal customers prefer, Edmund said.

“I think it’s nice they don’t have to go elsewhere,” she said. “And they love him.”

As for Joe, he says meeting and visiting with people is his favorite part of the job, and though it wasn’t what he planned for his life, he’ll be behind the counter until his health prevents it, just like his dad.

“It’s been good to the Whiteaker family, the store has, and the community.”

Whiteaker’s will celebrate its 90th anniversary with a customer appreciation dinner and dance Aug. 21 at 5 p.m. at the Rocky Top Dance Hall in Harrison.

In Abie’s words, written in the Harrison Sun:

“I have often made the remark that had I had enough money to go back to Missouri in 1925, I would have gone, but thank goodness I didn’t have it and am still here. … We are mighty thankful for our many friends and customers who have made it possible for us to live, raise our family, and be a part of this wonderful western country. We all love it, and always will.”

By Kerri Rempp, Discover Northwest NebraskaHARRISON - The smell of fresh-pressed jeans, newly unboxed boots, hats and horse tack transports visitors to Whiteaker’s back in time to the days when traditional western stores served the ranching communities.Owned and operated by Joe Whiteaker today, the Harrison institution keeps local and regional cowboys outfitted 90 years after Joe’s parents opened the store in the middle of the Great Depression.“He said the banks wouldn’t loan him any money,” Joe said of his parent’s effort.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628699257454.jpeg" alt="Whiteaker's will celebrate 90 years in business with a celebration Aug. 21 at 5 p.m. at the Rocky Top Dance Hall in Harrison." />
 <figcaption>Whiteaker's will celebrate 90 years in business with a celebration Aug. 21 at 5 p.m. at the Rocky Top Dance Hall in Harrison.</figcaption>
 </figure>Finally, with an $800 loan from a friend and a line of credit from a wholesale house in Denver, Colorado, E.E. “Abie” and Mary Whiteaker opened for business in the Ted Phillips Building on South Main Street in November 1931. Press Wilson was the store’s first customer, purchasing an overall jacket for $1.69 before the doors officially opened.Abie, a native of Missouri, had arrived in the area in the spring of 1925, going to work for R.N. Henry at the Golden Rule Store in Crawford. Mary Reed relocated to Crawford from eastern Nebraska around the same time to teach school. The couple married in 1928, the same year Abie was tasked with opening and managing a Golden Rule Store in Harrison.But within the first year of business, the stock market crashed and the United States plunged into the Great Depression. The Whiteakers were transferred back to Crawford in 1929, but as banks began folding and the economic hardships took their toll on the community, their wages were cut. The couple decided to take the risk of returning to Harrison and opening their own store.“How well Mary and I remember our starting business.,” Abie wrote in an advertisement in the Harrison Sun. “We had little cash, but through the goodness of the town’s people we managed to open with very little merchandise, which was put on tables and counters while empty boxes filled the shelving.”Joe said his parents didn’t want the store to look empty on opening day, and that’s why they came up with the idea of filling the shelves with the empty boxes in which their limited merchandise arrived. Three years later, in 1934, the business moved across the corner to the Davis Building.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628699353909.jpeg" alt="Joe Whiteaker has been behind the counter at Whiteaker's in Harrison since the 1990s. His parents, Abie and Mary started the store in 1931.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Joe Whiteaker has been behind the counter at Whiteaker's in Harrison since the 1990s. His parents, Abie and Mary started the store in 1931.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>That December brought some excitement to town when the Sioux National Bank was robbed. According to Abie’s recollections printed in the Harrison Sun, he and Mary were working in the store on Dec. 4 with Jerry Kennedy and Lola Unitt. They were busy with Christmas shoppers when bank employee Harold Jefferies ran in to announce the robbery and urge Abie to join him in chasing after the man, who had headed east.Jefferies, Abie, Albert Moody and Lawrence Moody jumped in Abie’s car and overtook the man 16-18 miles east of town and ran him off the road. The robber exited his vehicle and came out shooting, Abie wrote.“I didn’t have a gun, so believe me, I laid close to the running board on the opposite side of the car, and finally after he had emptied his gun and started running down Smiley Canyon, Albert Moody shot him with a big Army rifle. … This was a horrifying experience, and one I care never to repeat. As my car was shot up considerably, the Nebraska Bankers Association and the local bank here paid the difference on a new car for us, a 1935 Ford.”Joe said his father, who usually walked to work, was truly shaken by the experience.“He was scared to death after that.”Whiteaker’s moved to its current location in the Hoyt Building in 1938, sharing the site with the U.S. Post Office, as it does today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628699651201.jpeg" alt="Photo&nbsp;courtesy: Joe Whiteaker" />
 <figcaption>Photo&nbsp;courtesy: Joe Whiteaker</figcaption>
 </figure>While getting the business off the ground in the Great Depression was no easy feat, Saturday nights at Whiteaker’s was apparently the place to be.“There would be some 25 or more cowboys who would come to town with their paychecks, and of course we would stay open to accommodate them, sometimes until 11 or 12 o’clock,” Abie wrote in the Harrison Sun. “Their paychecks might not have been very big, but they sure had a good time spending it!”By 1938, Abie and Mary also had three sons, Robert, Donald and Joe.Joe doesn’t remember paying much attention to the store as a child –“I was out mowing yards and making money,” he said, adding that running the store was never in his plans.“I never did think I wanted to come here.”All three boys attended Oklahoma A&amp;M and then served in the armed forces – Bob in the Air Force, Donald in the Army and Joe in the Marines.After ending his stint in the Marines, Joe returned to Harrison, marrying Tonita Anderson, and went to work for the Sioux National Bank for 20 years. They also ranched but gave that up during the 1980s farm crisis.With Mary’s passing in 1986 and Abie’s health declining, Joe and Tonita took a more active role in the store during the 1980s, but Abie continued to work until his death in 1989.“The thought of closing (the store) was hard. The town really needed it,” Joe said. Instead, he and Tonita bought out his two brothers, and the days of filling the shelves with empty boxes are long behind them.“We probably have too much inventory, but you have to manage your orders to make the freight worth it,” Joe said. Every surface of the store is filled with jeans, shirts, boots, hats, belts, ties, jewelry and more.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628699479207.jpeg" alt="Whiteaker's in Harrison has an extensive inventory of jeans, western shirts, hats, boots and more.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Whiteaker's in Harrison has an extensive inventory of jeans, western shirts, hats, boots and more.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Abby Edmund, who has worked at Whiteaker’s for about 10 years, said cowboys from Lusk to Crawford know they can get what they need. Written down in the back are the styles and sizes of boots, jeans and hats that his loyal customers prefer, Edmund said.“I think it’s nice they don’t have to go elsewhere,” she said. “And they love him.”As for Joe, he says meeting and visiting with people is his favorite part of the job, and though it wasn’t what he planned for his life, he’ll be behind the counter until his health prevents it, just like his dad.“It’s been good to the Whiteaker family, the store has, and the community.”Whiteaker’s will celebrate its 90th anniversary with a customer appreciation dinner and dance Aug. 21 at 5 p.m. at the Rocky Top Dance Hall in Harrison.In Abie’s words, written in the Harrison Sun:“I have often made the remark that had I had enough money to go back to Missouri in 1925, I would have gone, but thank goodness I didn’t have it and am still here. … We are mighty thankful for our many friends and customers who have made it possible for us to live, raise our family, and be a part of this wonderful western country. We all love it, and always will.”

Traditional western store celebrates 90 years in Harrison 

LINCOLN – Hunters may begin donating deer to the Hunters Helping the Hungry program Sept. 1, the start of the archery deer season. Nine processors will be available around the state. Two additional processors will accept deer for the program starting Nov. 13.

Hunters pay no processing costs for deer accepted by processors for this donation-driven program.

The participating meat processors are: Amherst – Belschner Custom Meats; Diller – Diller Locker; Franklin – Franklin Locker; Grand Island – Nielsen’s Processing; Johnson – Pelican’s Processing (starting Nov. 13); Lindsay – Melcher’s Locker; North Bend – North Bend Locker (starting Nov. 13); North Platte – Kelley’s Custom Pack; Spalding – Bernt’s Custom Processing; Table Rock – Den’s Country Meats; Ulysses – The Butchery.

The HHH program is funded solely by tax-deductible contributions. Ground venison is distributed by charitable organizations to Nebraskans in need. Hunters should first talk with processors but may keep antlers, head and cape and donate the rest of the deer. Processors accept only whole deer in good condition to ensure a good yield of pure ground venison.

Learn more about the program and how to support it at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA4MTAuNDQzNzA0MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ISEgvIn0.4GGEiiUg49xInPEdX47cLf4IvAmbFaXw-OX3CGype70/s/497221906/br/110675316136-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/HHH</a>&nbsp;or contact program coordinator Teresa Lombar

LINCOLN – Hunters may begin donating deer to the Hunters Helping the Hungry program Sept. 1, the start of the archery deer season. Nine processors will be available around the state. Two additional processors will accept deer for the program starting Nov. 13.Hunters pay no processing costs for deer accepted by processors for this donation-driven program.The participating meat processors are: Amherst – Belschner Custom Meats; Diller – Diller Locker; Franklin – Franklin Locker; Grand Island – Nielsen’s Processing; Johnson – Pelican’s Processing (starting Nov. 13); Lindsay – Melcher’s Locker; North Bend – North Bend Locker (starting Nov. 13); North Platte – Kelley’s Custom Pack; Spalding – Bernt’s Custom Processing; Table Rock – Den’s Country Meats; Ulysses – The Butchery.The HHH program is funded solely by tax-deductible contributions. Ground venison is distributed by charitable organizations to Nebraskans in need. Hunters should first talk with processors but may keep antlers, head and cape and donate the rest of the deer. Processors accept only whole deer in good condition to ensure a good yield of pure ground venison.Learn more about the program and how to support it at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA4MTAuNDQzNzA0MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ISEgvIn0.4GGEiiUg49xInPEdX47cLf4IvAmbFaXw-OX3CGype70/s/497221906/br/110675316136-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/HHH</a>&nbsp;or contact program coordinator Teresa Lombar

Hunters Helping the Hungry meat processors to accept deer donations

News Release Nebraska Community Foundation

Greater Nebraska youth are increasingly embracing their hometowns and seeking ways to contribute to their shared future, according to Nebraska Community Foundation’s recently released 2021 Nebraska Youth Survey.

Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF), in partnership with the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research (CPAR) and local school districts, surveyed 1,047 middle and high school students between January and May of 2021. Participating communities included Albion, Bassett, Bruning, Burwell, Byron, Cedar Rapids, Chester, Davenport, Deshler, Grant, Hebron, O’Neill, Sidney, St. Edward, Stuart, Taylor and surrounding areas.

Students’ dream communities look a lot like where they live now. Sixty-four percent said their ideal community is small, like their hometown – a significant increase from 47% in 2020. When asked whether a stigma accompanied staying in or returning to their community, 76% said no – up from 70% last year.

“When we began this survey, one of our central interests was uncovering the extent to which there was a stigma associated with living in small towns in Nebraska and why,” said CPAR’s Josie Gatti Schafer, Ph.D. “After two years of conducting the survey, the results are clear – most student respondents do not feel a stigma exists about living in the place they live now. The trend is also positive.”

Like last year, students placed considerable importance on safety, ranking it at the top of a list of important factors when imagining their ideal community. Fortunately, more than 90% of respondents said they feel safe in their hometowns, and other answers indicate they value others’ safety as well. Almost 80% said they were likely to act to stop unfair treatment of others, and 61% said they were likely to be an advocate for embracing diversity and inclusion in their communities. As one respondent wrote, they seek to “make sure everyone is treated like a human should be treated.”

Greater Nebraska youth are also community-oriented – and busy. They balance sports, jobs, volunteering and club activities all while attending school – 87% have jobs in their community, and 84% are involved in school activities like sports or choir. Young Nebraskans are also active in bettering their places, with 71% saying they join others in their town to do something positive for their community at least once a year. Despite these high levels of engagement, only 25% of respondents said they feel they play a role in their community – down from 49% in 2020. These students are involved and want to play a part in shaping their community – adults must continue inviting them to share their voices.

“Our youth seek a place to call their own, and the conditions are ripe for them to stake their claim in Greater Nebraska,” said NCF President and CEO Jeff Yost. “Nebraskans have long known our local quality-of-life offerings can rival those of just about any other state. Last year proved thousands of jobs can now be done from anywhere in the world, why not right here in Nebraska?”

The results of the Nebraska Youth Survey reveal the priorities, values and desires of youth in our state as well as factors that may influence their decision to return to or remain in Greater Nebraska in the future. The traits they seek in a community – safety, good schools and proximity to family – are abundant in Greater Nebraska, and the work put in today can make communities even more appealing in the future.

View the full survey <a href="https://www.nebcommfound.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2021-Youth-Survey-FULL-REPORT.pdf">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628695025879.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska Community FoundationGreater Nebraska youth are increasingly embracing their hometowns and seeking ways to contribute to their shared future, according to Nebraska Community Foundation’s recently released 2021 Nebraska Youth Survey.Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF), in partnership with the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research (CPAR) and local school districts, surveyed 1,047 middle and high school students between January and May of 2021. Participating communities included Albion, Bassett, Bruning, Burwell, Byron, Cedar Rapids, Chester, Davenport, Deshler, Grant, Hebron, O’Neill, Sidney, St. Edward, Stuart, Taylor and surrounding areas.Students’ dream communities look a lot like where they live now. Sixty-four percent said their ideal community is small, like their hometown – a significant increase from 47% in 2020. When asked whether a stigma accompanied staying in or returning to their community, 76% said no – up from 70% last year.“When we began this survey, one of our central interests was uncovering the extent to which there was a stigma associated with living in small towns in Nebraska and why,” said CPAR’s Josie Gatti Schafer, Ph.D. “After two years of conducting the survey, the results are clear – most student respondents do not feel a stigma exists about living in the place they live now. The trend is also positive.”Like last year, students placed considerable importance on safety, ranking it at the top of a list of important factors when imagining their ideal community. Fortunately, more than 90% of respondents said they feel safe in their hometowns, and other answers indicate they value others’ safety as well. Almost 80% said they were likely to act to stop unfair treatment of others, and 61% said they were likely to be an advocate for embracing diversity and inclusion in their communities. As one respondent wrote, they seek to “make sure everyone is treated like a human should be treated.”Greater Nebraska youth are also community-oriented – and busy. They balance sports, jobs, volunteering and club activities all while attending school – 87% have jobs in their community, and 84% are involved in school activities like sports or choir. Young Nebraskans are also active in bettering their places, with 71% saying they join others in their town to do something positive for their community at least once a year. Despite these high levels of engagement, only 25% of respondents said they feel they play a role in their community – down from 49% in 2020. These students are involved and want to play a part in shaping their community – adults must continue inviting them to share their voices.“Our youth seek a place to call their own, and the conditions are ripe for them to stake their claim in Greater Nebraska,” said NCF President and CEO Jeff Yost. “Nebraskans have long known our local quality-of-life offerings can rival those of just about any other state. Last year proved thousands of jobs can now be done from anywhere in the world, why not right here in Nebraska?”The results of the Nebraska Youth Survey reveal the priorities, values and desires of youth in our state as well as factors that may influence their decision to return to or remain in Greater Nebraska in the future. The traits they seek in a community – safety, good schools and proximity to family – are abundant in Greater Nebraska, and the work put in today can make communities even more appealing in the future.View the full survey <a href="https://www.nebcommfound.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2021-Youth-Survey-FULL-REPORT.pdf">HERE</a>.

Neb. youth survey shows promising future for rural places

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

A wealthy person needs to get a huge sum of money out of their country because the government is unstable and they believe their assets will be seized. They urgently request your assistance, offering a huge commission that is a percentage of their treasure.

The Nigerian scam was a common email fraud in the 1990s, and variations are still around. The person asking for help was a Nigerian royal, government official, or business executive whose fortune was hostage to war, corruption, or political unrest. This desperate person needed only your bank account number to transfer the money for safekeeping. They may have asked for a small advance payment to cover taxes, bank fees, well-placed bribes, or other costs involved with the transfer. For your trouble, some of their millions would become your millions.

If you bit, your Nigerian “partner” drained your account dry or kept asking for more and more money because their bank, lawyer, or some organization added charges that had to be paid before the money could be transferred.

The Nigerian scam is also called an advance fee scam or a 419 scam, named for the section of Nigeria’s criminal code that deals with fraud. Of course, the scam can come from any country and involve different crises, depending on where the hotspots in the world are at any given time. It might come from a U.S. soldier stationed abroad, or a U.S. business executive rather than a foreign citizen. The plea might come through email, regular mail, phone texts, or through your social media accounts like Facebook.

The Nigerian scam is based on the Spanish Prisoner, a confidence game that was used in Europe in the early 1800’s. In Spanish Prisoner, the con artist wrote his victim, the mark, that he was a wealthy person who has been imprisoned in Spain under a false identity. Some versions had the imprisoned person being an unknown or remote relative of the mark. Most of the time the contact person was a friend of the prisoner. Supposedly the prisoner could not reveal his identity without serious repercussions, and was relying on this friend to raise money to secure his release.

The contact person asked the mark put up some of the funds, with a promise of a great monetary reward when the prisoner was released. Sometimes the deal included the hand of the prisoner’s beautiful daughter in marriage. (Remember, women were considered property then.) After the mark turned over the funds, he would be informed of further difficulties, and more money was needed.

What are the warning signs you are being scammed? You receive a contact out of the blue asking you to 'help' someone from another country transfer money out of their country. There is a long, sad story about why the money cannot be transferred by the owner, perhaps war, a coup, or inheritance problem. They want to move the money

straight into your bank account; could you share the number? You’ll get a large share of the amount for helping them access their trapped funds – lots of money! Probably a bank, lawyer, or government agency needs to be paid certain fees before the money can be moved, and you can use a money transfer service like a wire service to send the money.

If you think it’s a scam, don’t respond. Not many people fall for the Nigerian scam, but those who do want to get rich quick, and they lose thousands of dollars. If you want to verify information, do not use the contact information they give you. Instead do an independent search. You can do an Internet search for names, contact information, or the exact wording to check for a scam.

If you are corresponding with or being harassed by a scammer, contact the FBI. They have an Internet Crime Complaint Center, ic3.gov. Report these frauds to the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaint.

Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceA wealthy person needs to get a huge sum of money out of their country because the government is unstable and they believe their assets will be seized. They urgently request your assistance, offering a huge commission that is a percentage of their treasure.The Nigerian scam was a common email fraud in the 1990s, and variations are still around. The person asking for help was a Nigerian royal, government official, or business executive whose fortune was hostage to war, corruption, or political unrest. This desperate person needed only your bank account number to transfer the money for safekeeping. They may have asked for a small advance payment to cover taxes, bank fees, well-placed bribes, or other costs involved with the transfer. For your trouble, some of their millions would become your millions.If you bit, your Nigerian “partner” drained your account dry or kept asking for more and more money because their bank, lawyer, or some organization added charges that had to be paid before the money could be transferred.The Nigerian scam is also called an advance fee scam or a 419 scam, named for the section of Nigeria’s criminal code that deals with fraud. Of course, the scam can come from any country and involve different crises, depending on where the hotspots in the world are at any given time. It might come from a U.S. soldier stationed abroad, or a U.S. business executive rather than a foreign citizen. The plea might come through email, regular mail, phone texts, or through your social media accounts like Facebook.The Nigerian scam is based on the Spanish Prisoner, a confidence game that was used in Europe in the early 1800’s. In Spanish Prisoner, the con artist wrote his victim, the mark, that he was a wealthy person who has been imprisoned in Spain under a false identity. Some versions had the imprisoned person being an unknown or remote relative of the mark. Most of the time the contact person was a friend of the prisoner. Supposedly the prisoner could not reveal his identity without serious repercussions, and was relying on this friend to raise money to secure his release.The contact person asked the mark put up some of the funds, with a promise of a great monetary reward when the prisoner was released. Sometimes the deal included the hand of the prisoner’s beautiful daughter in marriage. (Remember, women were considered property then.) After the mark turned over the funds, he would be informed of further difficulties, and more money was needed.What are the warning signs you are being scammed? You receive a contact out of the blue asking you to 'help' someone from another country transfer money out of their country. There is a long, sad story about why the money cannot be transferred by the owner, perhaps war, a coup, or inheritance problem. They want to move the moneystraight into your bank account; could you share the number? You’ll get a large share of the amount for helping them access their trapped funds – lots of money! Probably a bank, lawyer, or government agency needs to be paid certain fees before the money can be moved, and you can use a money transfer service like a wire service to send the money.If you think it’s a scam, don’t respond. Not many people fall for the Nigerian scam, but those who do want to get rich quick, and they lose thousands of dollars. If you want to verify information, do not use the contact information they give you. Instead do an independent search. You can do an Internet search for names, contact information, or the exact wording to check for a scam.If you are corresponding with or being harassed by a scammer, contact the FBI. They have an Internet Crime Complaint Center, ic3.gov. Report these frauds to the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaint.Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Poverty In Our Area: Nigerian scams

Bayer Fund announced the kickoff of the 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americasfarmers.com/grow-communities/" target="_blank">America’s Farmers Grow Communities</a>&nbsp;program, which has been revamped to make it even easier for Nebraska farmers across the country to find and fund the organizations and institutions that keep their communities thriving. From August 2 to November 1, eligible farmers can enroll for the chance to direct a donation to a local eligible nonprofit organization, school STEM program or youth agriculture program. This year, Bayer Fund doubled the individual donations to $5,000, up from $2,500 in previous years.

America’s Farmers initiatives have awarded more than $60 million to thousands of schools and nonprofit organizations. Since the creation of Grow Communities in 2010, farmers have played a key role in directing funds to programs and organizations that contribute to their communities’ health and vibrancy, such as food banks, schools and agriculture programs. In Nebraska alone, farmers have directed more than $2.4 million in Grow Communities funds to local nonprofits.

Farmers are eligible to enroll in Grow Communities if they are 21 years of age or older and are actively engaged in farming at least 250 acres of any crop.

“In addition to increasing the individual donation amounts in 2022, we’re excited to evolve Grow Communities to make it easier for farmers to take part,” said Al Mitchell, Bayer Fund President. “Over the years we’ve heard from countless farmers and Grow Communities recipients about the ways the donations have made a positive impact across rural America. For this reason, Bayer Fund is excited to continue the Grow Communities tradition.”

To enroll or learn more about Grow Communities, including program eligibility and rules, farmers can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.americasfarmers.com/" target="_blank">www.AmericasFarmers.com</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-267-3332 toll-free. Winners will be announced January 2021.

America’s Farmers, sponsored by Bayer Fund, is focused on strengthening rural America through community outreach programs that partner with farmers to make an impact in communities where farmers live and work.&nbsp;The programs have given more than $60 million to rural America since 2010.

Bayer Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the communities where Bayer customers and employees live and work by providing funding for food and nutrition, education and community development projects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628686222443.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Bayer&nbsp;Bayer Fund announced the kickoff of the 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americasfarmers.com/grow-communities/" target="_blank">America’s Farmers Grow Communities</a>&nbsp;program, which has been revamped to make it even easier for Nebraska farmers across the country to find and fund the organizations and institutions that keep their communities thriving. From August 2 to November 1, eligible farmers can enroll for the chance to direct a donation to a local eligible nonprofit organization, school STEM program or youth agriculture program. This year, Bayer Fund doubled the individual donations to $5,000, up from $2,500 in previous years.America’s Farmers initiatives have awarded more than $60 million to thousands of schools and nonprofit organizations. Since the creation of Grow Communities in 2010, farmers have played a key role in directing funds to programs and organizations that contribute to their communities’ health and vibrancy, such as food banks, schools and agriculture programs. In Nebraska alone, farmers have directed more than $2.4 million in Grow Communities funds to local nonprofits.Farmers are eligible to enroll in Grow Communities if they are 21 years of age or older and are actively engaged in farming at least 250 acres of any crop.“In addition to increasing the individual donation amounts in 2022, we’re excited to evolve Grow Communities to make it easier for farmers to take part,” said Al Mitchell, Bayer Fund President. “Over the years we’ve heard from countless farmers and Grow Communities recipients about the ways the donations have made a positive impact across rural America. For this reason, Bayer Fund is excited to continue the Grow Communities tradition.”To enroll or learn more about Grow Communities, including program eligibility and rules, farmers can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.americasfarmers.com/" target="_blank">www.AmericasFarmers.com</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-267-3332 toll-free. Winners will be announced January 2021.About America’s FarmersAmerica’s Farmers, sponsored by Bayer Fund, is focused on strengthening rural America through community outreach programs that partner with farmers to make an impact in communities where farmers live and work.&nbsp;The programs have given more than $60 million to rural America since 2010.About Bayer FundBayer Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the communities where Bayer customers and employees live and work by providing funding for food and nutrition, education and community development projects.

Nebraska farmers can win $5K to direct to nonprofits

Gering resident and Scotts Bluff County Commissioner Charlie Knapper shared on the Tuesday briefing how he made the decision to recently get COVID vaccinated. Self-admitting he’s a skeptic and likes to remain objective by informing himself with as many facts and information as possible.

“I’ve been skeptical from day one of everything. I scoured every piece of information I could get my hands on, listening to briefings, catching the nightly and 24-hour news on my phone, listening to news from across the spectrum, and I couldn’t make up my own mind. I was becoming more torn and internally conflicted so I reached out to a childhood friend,” Knapper said.

Knapper’s friend, now a doctor on the west coast with similar views, helped him arrive at his recent decision.

“We went to school together, played ball together, and lifeguarded together in the summer. I knew I could trust him. He’s the doctor, I’m the IT nerd. We agree on everything from parenting to who should take snaps as Nebraska’s quarterback and I decided I was going to trust him,” shared Knapper.

He said an upcoming trip to Florida in a couple of weeks was also a factor and his thoughts about his own kids.

“There are some concerning stories with long haul COVID symptoms of brain lesions and other scary things and I didn’t want those to weigh on my decision,” Knapper added.

A fellow coworker encouraged him to publicly share his choice to get vaccinated and he personally wanted to possibly help someone else make the decision. Knapper encourages anyone who is skeptical and wants to remain objective to reach out to someone they trust, someone they have a personal relationship with, and ask them how they arrived at their decision.

Vaccinations have protection against all known variants, including Delta. For any youth age 12 and older preparing to return to school, make sure getting your COVID vaccine is on the list. COVID vaccine is available across the Panhandle. 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 63 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, August 2.

By PPHDGering resident and Scotts Bluff County Commissioner Charlie Knapper shared on the Tuesday briefing how he made the decision to recently get COVID vaccinated. Self-admitting he’s a skeptic and likes to remain objective by informing himself with as many facts and information as possible.“I’ve been skeptical from day one of everything. I scoured every piece of information I could get my hands on, listening to briefings, catching the nightly and 24-hour news on my phone, listening to news from across the spectrum, and I couldn’t make up my own mind. I was becoming more torn and internally conflicted so I reached out to a childhood friend,” Knapper said.Knapper’s friend, now a doctor on the west coast with similar views, helped him arrive at his recent decision.“We went to school together, played ball together, and lifeguarded together in the summer. I knew I could trust him. He’s the doctor, I’m the IT nerd. We agree on everything from parenting to who should take snaps as Nebraska’s quarterback and I decided I was going to trust him,” shared Knapper.He said an upcoming trip to Florida in a couple of weeks was also a factor and his thoughts about his own kids.“There are some concerning stories with long haul COVID symptoms of brain lesions and other scary things and I didn’t want those to weigh on my decision,” Knapper added.A fellow coworker encouraged him to publicly share his choice to get vaccinated and he personally wanted to possibly help someone else make the decision. Knapper encourages anyone who is skeptical and wants to remain objective to reach out to someone they trust, someone they have a personal relationship with, and ask them how they arrived at their decision.Vaccinations have protection against all known variants, including Delta. For any youth age 12 and older preparing to return to school, make sure getting your COVID vaccine is on the list. COVID vaccine is available across the Panhandle. 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><li>Morrill Clinic, Morrill, June 30, July 21, August 11, September 1, 5:30 PM-6:30 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 63 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, August 2.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628640958904.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628640986482.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

PPHD: Scotts Bluff Co. commissioner encourages vaccine discussion

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Teachers, educators and other South Dakota citizens charged with crafting new state social studies standards say Gov. Kristi Noem’s administration deleted many elements intended to bolster students’ understanding of Native American history and culture from their draft. 

Members of the working group said Tuesday they were caught by surprise when the department released the new document last week.

 They say changes made to the draft they submitted in late July gave it a political edge they had tried to avoid, instead aligning with the Republican governor’s rhetoric on what she calls patriotic education. 

The Department of Education has not responded to a request for comment.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Teachers, educators and other South Dakota citizens charged with crafting new state social studies standards say Gov. Kristi Noem’s administration deleted many elements intended to bolster students’ understanding of Native American history and culture from their draft. Members of the working group said Tuesday they were caught by surprise when the department released the new document last week. They say changes made to the draft they submitted in late July gave it a political edge they had tried to avoid, instead aligning with the Republican governor’s rhetoric on what she calls patriotic education. The Department of Education has not responded to a request for comment.

Indigenous history, culture cut from South Dakota standards

Alliance – The City of Alliance is proud to celebrate our one-year anniversary, partnering with Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) on our Utility Assistance Program, Neighbors Helping Neighbors.

 In our first year, we are proud to announce that our community has donated $2,552 to contribute to other Alliance residents who need assistance in paying their utility bills.

We are excited to see this program grow to ensure our community members don’t go without during times of need. 

Over one-third of households in the United States have difficulty paying their energy bills and that financial insecurity is on the rise in Box Butte County. 

Some households may forgo food, medicine and other necessities in order to pay a utility bill or they may keep their homes at unsafe temperatures to reduce their bills.

 In some instances, unplanned expenses cause financial shortfalls for households who do not otherwise qualify for assistance.

The City of Alliance is continuing to offer the opportunity for utility customers to add a one-time or recurring donation to their monthly utility bill. 

Any dollar amount makes a difference in the lives of Alliance residents. Donations may be tax-deductible and a statement of your gift will be provided at year-end, as appropriate. 

Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) will hold all donations in a designated fund until they are able to begin distributions.

For more information about how to donate, please contact the Alliance Utility Office at (308) 762-5075.

To be eligible for assistance under this program, applicants must:

· Complete NCAP’s assistance application form, including providing proof of income

· Be a current resident and utility customer of City of Alliance

· Have a delinquent residential utility bill subject to disconnect.

If you wish to apply for assistance, please contact the Northwest Community Action office at (308) 762-4523 for application assistance.

Alliance – The City of Alliance is proud to celebrate our one-year anniversary, partnering with Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) on our Utility Assistance Program, Neighbors Helping Neighbors. In our first year, we are proud to announce that our community has donated $2,552 to contribute to other Alliance residents who need assistance in paying their utility bills.We are excited to see this program grow to ensure our community members don’t go without during times of need. Over one-third of households in the United States have difficulty paying their energy bills and that financial insecurity is on the rise in Box Butte County. Some households may forgo food, medicine and other necessities in order to pay a utility bill or they may keep their homes at unsafe temperatures to reduce their bills. In some instances, unplanned expenses cause financial shortfalls for households who do not otherwise qualify for assistance.The City of Alliance is continuing to offer the opportunity for utility customers to add a one-time or recurring donation to their monthly utility bill. Any dollar amount makes a difference in the lives of Alliance residents. Donations may be tax-deductible and a statement of your gift will be provided at year-end, as appropriate. Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) will hold all donations in a designated fund until they are able to begin distributions.For more information about how to donate, please contact the Alliance Utility Office at (308) 762-5075.To be eligible for assistance under this program, applicants must:· Complete NCAP’s assistance application form, including providing proof of income· Be a current resident and utility customer of City of Alliance· Have a delinquent residential utility bill subject to disconnect.If you wish to apply for assistance, please contact the Northwest Community Action office at (308) 762-4523 for application assistance.

City of Alliance continues Neighbors Helping Neighbors program

A Morrill County teen died after a single-vehicle rollover accident.&nbsp;

At approximately 8 p.m. on Aug. 7 Morrill County authorities were dispatched to County Road 101, 6 miles northeast of Bridgeport to a single-vehicle rollover accident.

Two male juveniles, ages 17 and 16, were returning home from work traveling south on County Road 101 when they approached a curve and lost control of the vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle was transported to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, where he was treated and released. 

The passenger was pronounced deceased at the scene from injuries.&nbsp;

"Restraints appeared to be in use and neither alcohol nor drugs were a factor," Morrill County Attorney Travis Rodak said.&nbsp;

The Morrill County Sheriff’s Office, Morrill County&nbsp;Advanced Life Support&nbsp;(ALS), Broadwater Fire Department, Bridgeport Fire Department and Air Link assisted with the accident.&nbsp;

No names have been released at this time.&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostA Morrill County teen died after a single-vehicle rollover accident.&nbsp;At approximately 8 p.m. on Aug. 7 Morrill County authorities were dispatched to County Road 101, 6 miles northeast of Bridgeport to a single-vehicle rollover accident.Two male juveniles, ages 17 and 16, were returning home from work traveling south on County Road 101 when they approached a curve and lost control of the vehicle.The driver of the vehicle was transported to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, where he was treated and released. The passenger was pronounced deceased at the scene from injuries.&nbsp;"Restraints appeared to be in use and neither alcohol nor drugs were a factor," Morrill County Attorney Travis Rodak said.&nbsp;The Morrill County Sheriff’s Office, Morrill County&nbsp;Advanced Life Support&nbsp;(ALS), Broadwater Fire Department, Bridgeport Fire Department and Air Link assisted with the accident.&nbsp;No names have been released at this time.&nbsp;

Morrill County teen dies in rollover vehicle accident 

CHADRON – The Chadron State College Community Symphonic Band will have its first rehearsal Aug. 24 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium. All instrumentalists are welcome. For those who do not own an instrument, one will be provided. Rehearsals will be Tuesdays at 7 p.m. throughout the fall semester.

The CSC Community Band and Wind Symphony and will perform combined concerts Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

For details, contact Dr. John Wojcik at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jwojcik@csc.edu" target="_blank">jwojcik@csc.edu</a>&nbsp;or 308-432-6322.

At this time, masks are recommended for those who are unvaccinated. Bell covers will be provided upon request.

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – The Chadron State College Community Symphonic Band will have its first rehearsal Aug. 24 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium. All instrumentalists are welcome. For those who do not own an instrument, one will be provided. Rehearsals will be Tuesdays at 7 p.m. throughout the fall semester.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628259982472.jpeg" alt="The Chadron State College Community Band, directed by John Wojcik, center, performs April 9, 2021, in Memorial Hall. (Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>The Chadron State College Community Band, directed by John Wojcik, center, performs April 9, 2021, in Memorial Hall. (Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>The CSC Community Band and Wind Symphony and will perform combined concerts Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall.For details, contact Dr. John Wojcik at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jwojcik@csc.edu" target="_blank">jwojcik@csc.edu</a>&nbsp;or 308-432-6322.At this time, masks are recommended for those who are unvaccinated. Bell covers will be provided upon request.

UPDATE: CSC’s Community Symphonic Band announces schedule

By Erin Lee, Upper Niobrara White Natural Resource District

This is the Crop Water Use Report for the week of August 9.

Over the past week, corn used 2.20 inches.

Expected use by corn for this week is 2.42 inches.

Over the past week, beets used 1.46 inches.

Expected use by beets for this week is 1.61 inches.

Over the past week, potatoes used 1.20 inches.

Expected use by potatoes for this week is 1.32 inches.

Over the past week, dry beans used 2.00 inches.

Expected use by dry beans for this week is 2.10 inches.

Over the past week, soybeans used 2.20 inches.

Expected use by soybeans for this week is 2.31 inches.

Over the past week, sunflowers used 2.20 inches.

Expected use by sunflowers for this week is 2.31 inches.

Over the past week, alfalfa used 2.00 inches.

Expected use by alfalfa for this week is 2.20 inches.

Over the past week, actively growing lawns used 1.80 inches.

Expected use by actively growing lawns for this week 2.00 inches.

In the past week average ET gauge readings were 1.98 inches.

The average rainfall for the district was 0 inches.

The weather forecast for the next week shows highs in the low to mid 90s and upper 80s, with lows in the upper 50s and low 60s. It will be hot and sunny throughout the week with a slight chance of rain and thunderstorms on Friday.

In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 1 showed 85% water available at 12”, 32% water available at 24”, and 24% water available at 36”. The producer did irrigate. Remember this is in a Sandy Loam soil type with Corn planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.

The crop water use report is completed using the average growth stage for each crop and ET gauge reading from across the district. To find the conversion for your specific crop growth stage, visit <a href="https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData">https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData</a>.

For more information or to inquire about ET gauges or soil moisture monitoring equipment, please contact Erin Lee at the Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District at 308.432.6190 or visit our website at <a href="http://www.unwnrd.org">www.unwnrd.org</a>. We are committed to helping Nebraskans conserve and protect groundwater.

By Erin Lee, Upper Niobrara White Natural Resource DistrictThis is the Crop Water Use Report for the week of August 9.Over the past week, corn used 2.20 inches.Expected use by corn for this week is 2.42 inches.Over the past week, beets used 1.46 inches.Expected use by beets for this week is 1.61 inches.Over the past week, potatoes used 1.20 inches.Expected use by potatoes for this week is 1.32 inches.Over the past week, dry beans used 2.00 inches.Expected use by dry beans for this week is 2.10 inches.Over the past week, soybeans used 2.20 inches.Expected use by soybeans for this week is 2.31 inches.Over the past week, sunflowers used 2.20 inches.Expected use by sunflowers for this week is 2.31 inches.Over the past week, alfalfa used 2.00 inches.Expected use by alfalfa for this week is 2.20 inches.Over the past week, actively growing lawns used 1.80 inches.Expected use by actively growing lawns for this week 2.00 inches.In the past week average ET gauge readings were 1.98 inches.The average rainfall for the district was 0 inches.The weather forecast for the next week shows highs in the low to mid 90s and upper 80s, with lows in the upper 50s and low 60s. It will be hot and sunny throughout the week with a slight chance of rain and thunderstorms on Friday.In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 1 showed 85% water available at 12”, 32% water available at 24”, and 24% water available at 36”. The producer did irrigate. Remember this is in a Sandy Loam soil type with Corn planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.The crop water use report is completed using the average growth stage for each crop and ET gauge reading from across the district. To find the conversion for your specific crop growth stage, visit <a href="https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData">https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData</a>.For more information or to inquire about ET gauges or soil moisture monitoring equipment, please contact Erin Lee at the Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District at 308.432.6190 or visit our website at <a href="http://www.unwnrd.org">www.unwnrd.org</a>. We are committed to helping Nebraskans conserve and protect groundwater.

Upper Niobrara White NRD crop water use report for week of Aug. 9

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska state senator and former city council member from Bellevue is weighing a bid for governor. 

Sen. Carol Blood unveiled a new campaign website Monday where she’s taking donations and describing herself as a level-headed public servant with a record of governing. 

If she commits to running, Blood would be the first Democratic candidate to declare a bid for governor. 

She’s seeking to replace Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts, who is term-limited, in a state dominated by the GOP. 

Blood was elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2016, defeating a Republican incumbent in a politically divided Sarpy County district. 

She was re-elected to the seat in 2020, overcoming a GOP challenger in the officially nonpartisan election.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska state senator and former city council member from Bellevue is weighing a bid for governor. Sen. Carol Blood unveiled a new campaign website Monday where she’s taking donations and describing herself as a level-headed public servant with a record of governing. If she commits to running, Blood would be the first Democratic candidate to declare a bid for governor. She’s seeking to replace Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts, who is term-limited, in a state dominated by the GOP. Blood was elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2016, defeating a Republican incumbent in a politically divided Sarpy County district. She was re-elected to the seat in 2020, overcoming a GOP challenger in the officially nonpartisan election.

Nebraska state Sen. Carol Blood considering run for governor

LINCOLN – Hunters may enter a lottery to gain deer hunting access to Platte River Recreation Access lands in the central Platte River Valley, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Forty-seven hunters will be chosen from a random drawing in early September and allowed to hunt deer on designated PRRA lands Nov. 16-21, 2021.

Applications, limited to one per person, will be accepted by mail or drop box at the Game and Parks service center in Kearney through 5 p.m. Aug. 31. Hunters can apply to hunt three areas but will receive permission on only one area if drawn. Two hunters may submit a buddy application to ensure they both are on the same area if drawn. Lottery winners will be notified by Sept. 20. Hunters are required to obtain the appropriate deer permit and habitat stamp in order to hunt.

PRRA lands are closed to all access from Oct. 9 to Nov. 15. More information and a map showing the available areas can be obtained at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA4MDkuNDQzMjQ2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9wcnJhLyJ9.0djEVW5goDtqWhSEMA0GVCwjPTjMXStx01OPxvm0oAM/s/497221906/br/110604647681-l" target="_blank">platteaccess.org</a>, by calling 308-865-5338 or emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ngpc.platteaccess@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ngpc.platteaccess@nebraska.gov</a>.

PRRA lands are lands purchased by the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program for the restoration and maintenance of habitat for whooping cranes, least terns and piping plovers in the central Platte River Valley. The PRRA program allows limited access to these properties when access will not disturb these species.

More information on the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA4MDkuNDQzMjQ2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3BsYXR0ZXJpdmVycHJvZ3JhbS5vcmcvZ29vZC1uZWlnaGJvcnMifQ.KAfJyu5AuHkl2o2EWSzGqhWbyZljtAj2ZlQVZd2QnlY/s/497221906/br/110604647681-l" target="_blank">platteriverprogram.org/good-neighbors</a>.

LINCOLN – Hunters may enter a lottery to gain deer hunting access to Platte River Recreation Access lands in the central Platte River Valley, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.Forty-seven hunters will be chosen from a random drawing in early September and allowed to hunt deer on designated PRRA lands Nov. 16-21, 2021.Applications, limited to one per person, will be accepted by mail or drop box at the Game and Parks service center in Kearney through 5 p.m. Aug. 31. Hunters can apply to hunt three areas but will receive permission on only one area if drawn. Two hunters may submit a buddy application to ensure they both are on the same area if drawn. Lottery winners will be notified by Sept. 20. Hunters are required to obtain the appropriate deer permit and habitat stamp in order to hunt.PRRA lands are closed to all access from Oct. 9 to Nov. 15. More information and a map showing the available areas can be obtained at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA4MDkuNDQzMjQ2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9wcnJhLyJ9.0djEVW5goDtqWhSEMA0GVCwjPTjMXStx01OPxvm0oAM/s/497221906/br/110604647681-l" target="_blank">platteaccess.org</a>, by calling 308-865-5338 or emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ngpc.platteaccess@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ngpc.platteaccess@nebraska.gov</a>.PRRA lands are lands purchased by the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program for the restoration and maintenance of habitat for whooping cranes, least terns and piping plovers in the central Platte River Valley. The PRRA program allows limited access to these properties when access will not disturb these species.More information on the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA4MDkuNDQzMjQ2ODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3BsYXR0ZXJpdmVycHJvZ3JhbS5vcmcvZ29vZC1uZWlnaGJvcnMifQ.KAfJyu5AuHkl2o2EWSzGqhWbyZljtAj2ZlQVZd2QnlY/s/497221906/br/110604647681-l" target="_blank">platteriverprogram.org/good-neighbors</a>.

Hunters may enter lottery for deer hunting access on the central Platte

AP - Canadian Pacific is upping its offer for Kansas City Southern to approximately $31 billion, potentially reigniting a bidding war with rival railroad Canadian National. 

Kansas City Southern is the smallest of the remaining major U.S. railroads, but it also controls critical cross-border routes with Mexico.

 Its size has long piqued the interest of other railroads as any bid could be the most likely to be approved by U.S. regulators long wary of signing off on railroad mergers out of antitrust concerns. 

But its cross-border rails give Kansas City a high premium in the eyes of bigger railroads hungry to expand, particularly now as the U.S. economy emerges from a pandemic-induced recession.

AP - Canadian Pacific is upping its offer for Kansas City Southern to approximately $31 billion, potentially reigniting a bidding war with rival railroad Canadian National. Kansas City Southern is the smallest of the remaining major U.S. railroads, but it also controls critical cross-border routes with Mexico. Its size has long piqued the interest of other railroads as any bid could be the most likely to be approved by U.S. regulators long wary of signing off on railroad mergers out of antitrust concerns. But its cross-border rails give Kansas City a high premium in the eyes of bigger railroads hungry to expand, particularly now as the U.S. economy emerges from a pandemic-induced recession.

Railroad bidding war for Kansas City Southern is reignited

In 2021, communism seems like a distant threat to many.&nbsp; Generations of Americans have learned about the atrocities committed by Stalin and Lenin in Russia.&nbsp; Many are familiar with Mao’s Great Leap Forward, which led to the Great Chinese Famine and starvation and death for millions.&nbsp;

Sadly, communism isn’t something that’s just studied in history books.&nbsp; There’s growing awareness across our state and country that it’s reinventing itself right here at home under the label of Critical Race Theory (CRT).&nbsp; Instead of the old narrative of class warfare, CRT envisions a race-based Marxism that divides people along racial lines.&nbsp; It’s packaged under innocuous sounding terms such as “equity” or “anti-racism,” but it seeks to re-write our country’s history and reimagine public policy all based on a Marxist worldview. &nbsp;

Here’s a few things you should know about CRT.

CRT is an attack on the premise that America is working to build “a more perfect union.”&nbsp; CRT proponents reject the notion that America is defined by a shared commitment to universal principles such as the recognition of God-given human rights, equality under the law, and the protection of basic freedoms of religion, speech, and assembly.&nbsp; Instead, they teach that racism defines America and that systemic racism plagues our country’s institutions.&nbsp;

Critical race theorists seek to remedy what they describe as “systemic racism” by turning back the clock on race relations and promoting a race-based view of the world. &nbsp;Ibram Kendi, a leading proponent of CRT who heads the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research, openly encourages discrimination on the basis of skin color.&nbsp; He writes, “The only remedy to racist discrimination is antiracist discrimination. &nbsp;The only remedy to past discrimination is present discrimination.”&nbsp;

CRT advocates also exchange the word “equality” for “equity”—and it’s important to understand the distinction in their choice of language. &nbsp;Our state’s motto is “Equality before the law”. &nbsp;“Equality” expresses the ideal that every individual should receive equal treatment and equal opportunity, regardless of one’s race or background.&nbsp; For CRT proponents, “equity” is the aspiration that our economy and institutions produce equal outcomes.&nbsp; This is the vision Marxists have had for generations.&nbsp;

For decades, CRT has remained a little-known theory, mainly studied in institutions of higher education.&nbsp; Today, it’s being applied in personnel trainings, K-12 schools, universities, and other settings. &nbsp;And it’s happening right here in Nebraska at taxpayer expense. &nbsp;I’ll share two examples.

First, the Nebraska Department of Education promotes a number of concerning materials on their website.&nbsp; Their website highlights the 1619 Project, a project of the New York Times that presents a revisionist history of the American founding.&nbsp; After I recently posted a statement on social media opposing CRT, the founder of the 1619 Project responded to my statement claiming that white supremacy is a “core value” of America.&nbsp; Furthermore, NDE’s website promotes the Zinn Education Project, an organization carrying on the work of self-described socialist Howard Zinn.&nbsp; The Zinn Education Project has been a vocal opponent of states who have sought to ban CRT from being applied in K-12 public schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;

And it’s not just NDE.&nbsp; The Nebraska State Education Association, the union for K-12 school teachers, came to the defense of their national organization, which recently voted to promote CRT.

Second, the Office of the Chancellor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) has launched a “journey toward anti-racism and racial equity.”&nbsp; It established a dedicated group of co-leaders who were tasked with “on-going review of institutional demands paired with responses.” &nbsp;Recently, this group of co-leaders released a statement on the Office of the Chancellor’s website providing a defense of CRT in which they argued that opponents of CRT were aiding the Klu Klux Klan.

It’s not just in the administration—CRT is also being pushed in the classroom.&nbsp; Consider how Dr. Kerry-Ann Escayg, a critical race theorist at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, describes her work:&nbsp; “Anti-racism informs all work that I undertake including the types of research activities I design and implement. &nbsp;I see research as a form of storytelling and anti-racist research as a form of activism.”&nbsp; From Dr. Escayg’s perspective, her research at the University is activism.&nbsp; It’s imperative that our University system reject academic activism in the classroom and center itself on open-minded, evidence-based investigation of our history and society.&nbsp;

There’s a chance to stop the application of CRT at the University of Nebraska.&nbsp; On August 13, 2021 the University of Nebraska Board of Regents will vote on a resolution to prevent CRT from being imposed on their campuses.&nbsp; Passing this resolution is key to protecting student voices and academic freedom.&nbsp; Without the resolution, proponents of CRT will remain free to impose their Marxist philosophy and divide campuses along racial lines. &nbsp;I strongly urge the Board of Regents to pass the resolution to help protect the integrity of our University System.

As this vote by the Board of Regents approaches, it is my hope you will contact your board representative and let them know you oppose CRT.&nbsp; The University system is independently governed by the Board of Regents, who are elected by the people of Nebraska.&nbsp; I do not appoint them.&nbsp; You can find their contact information at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnebraska.edu%2Fregents%2Fboard-members&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C5eae4d36a2e64e42b91d08d95b7cc91b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637641413799206319%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=sGedsV3JjojxJDCtYfvidbuYhxLnmYgmeLyz0UZ1psQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nebraska.edu/regents/board-members</a>.&nbsp;

If you want to learn more about how CRT is being promoted in education and other institutions across our country, I encourage you to check out the latest episode of my podcast with Christopher Rufo.&nbsp; Rufo is one of the leading experts on CRT, and has done extensive investigatory reporting on the issue.&nbsp; You can listen to the episode by searching for “The Nebraska Way” on Apple Podcasts.

If you have questions about CRT or any other topic, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Let’s protect our students from this anti-American ideology, and keep it from being imposed on the next generation of Nebraskans.

By Gov. Pete RickettsIn 2021, communism seems like a distant threat to many.&nbsp; Generations of Americans have learned about the atrocities committed by Stalin and Lenin in Russia.&nbsp; Many are familiar with Mao’s Great Leap Forward, which led to the Great Chinese Famine and starvation and death for millions.&nbsp;Sadly, communism isn’t something that’s just studied in history books.&nbsp; There’s growing awareness across our state and country that it’s reinventing itself right here at home under the label of Critical Race Theory (CRT).&nbsp; Instead of the old narrative of class warfare, CRT envisions a race-based Marxism that divides people along racial lines.&nbsp; It’s packaged under innocuous sounding terms such as “equity” or “anti-racism,” but it seeks to re-write our country’s history and reimagine public policy all based on a Marxist worldview. &nbsp;Here’s a few things you should know about CRT.CRT is an attack on the premise that America is working to build “a more perfect union.”&nbsp; CRT proponents reject the notion that America is defined by a shared commitment to universal principles such as the recognition of God-given human rights, equality under the law, and the protection of basic freedoms of religion, speech, and assembly.&nbsp; Instead, they teach that racism defines America and that systemic racism plagues our country’s institutions.&nbsp;Critical race theorists seek to remedy what they describe as “systemic racism” by turning back the clock on race relations and promoting a race-based view of the world. &nbsp;Ibram Kendi, a leading proponent of CRT who heads the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research, openly encourages discrimination on the basis of skin color.&nbsp; He writes, “The only remedy to racist discrimination is antiracist discrimination. &nbsp;The only remedy to past discrimination is present discrimination.”&nbsp;CRT advocates also exchange the word “equality” for “equity”—and it’s important to understand the distinction in their choice of language. &nbsp;Our state’s motto is “Equality before the law”. &nbsp;“Equality” expresses the ideal that every individual should receive equal treatment and equal opportunity, regardless of one’s race or background.&nbsp; For CRT proponents, “equity” is the aspiration that our economy and institutions produce equal outcomes.&nbsp; This is the vision Marxists have had for generations.&nbsp;For decades, CRT has remained a little-known theory, mainly studied in institutions of higher education.&nbsp; Today, it’s being applied in personnel trainings, K-12 schools, universities, and other settings. &nbsp;And it’s happening right here in Nebraska at taxpayer expense. &nbsp;I’ll share two examples.First, the Nebraska Department of Education promotes a number of concerning materials on their website.&nbsp; Their website highlights the 1619 Project, a project of the New York Times that presents a revisionist history of the American founding.&nbsp; After I recently posted a statement on social media opposing CRT, the founder of the 1619 Project responded to my statement claiming that white supremacy is a “core value” of America.&nbsp; Furthermore, NDE’s website promotes the Zinn Education Project, an organization carrying on the work of self-described socialist Howard Zinn.&nbsp; The Zinn Education Project has been a vocal opponent of states who have sought to ban CRT from being applied in K-12 public schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;And it’s not just NDE.&nbsp; The Nebraska State Education Association, the union for K-12 school teachers, came to the defense of their national organization, which recently voted to promote CRT.Second, the Office of the Chancellor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) has launched a “journey toward anti-racism and racial equity.”&nbsp; It established a dedicated group of co-leaders who were tasked with “on-going review of institutional demands paired with responses.” &nbsp;Recently, this group of co-leaders released a statement on the Office of the Chancellor’s website providing a defense of CRT in which they argued that opponents of CRT were aiding the Klu Klux Klan.It’s not just in the administration—CRT is also being pushed in the classroom.&nbsp; Consider how Dr. Kerry-Ann Escayg, a critical race theorist at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, describes her work:&nbsp; “Anti-racism informs all work that I undertake including the types of research activities I design and implement. &nbsp;I see research as a form of storytelling and anti-racist research as a form of activism.”&nbsp; From Dr. Escayg’s perspective, her research at the University is activism.&nbsp; It’s imperative that our University system reject academic activism in the classroom and center itself on open-minded, evidence-based investigation of our history and society.&nbsp;There’s a chance to stop the application of CRT at the University of Nebraska.&nbsp; On August 13, 2021 the University of Nebraska Board of Regents will vote on a resolution to prevent CRT from being imposed on their campuses.&nbsp; Passing this resolution is key to protecting student voices and academic freedom.&nbsp; Without the resolution, proponents of CRT will remain free to impose their Marxist philosophy and divide campuses along racial lines. &nbsp;I strongly urge the Board of Regents to pass the resolution to help protect the integrity of our University System.As this vote by the Board of Regents approaches, it is my hope you will contact your board representative and let them know you oppose CRT.&nbsp; The University system is independently governed by the Board of Regents, who are elected by the people of Nebraska.&nbsp; I do not appoint them.&nbsp; You can find their contact information at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnebraska.edu%2Fregents%2Fboard-members&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C5eae4d36a2e64e42b91d08d95b7cc91b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637641413799206319%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=sGedsV3JjojxJDCtYfvidbuYhxLnmYgmeLyz0UZ1psQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nebraska.edu/regents/board-members</a>.&nbsp;If you want to learn more about how CRT is being promoted in education and other institutions across our country, I encourage you to check out the latest episode of my podcast with Christopher Rufo.&nbsp; Rufo is one of the leading experts on CRT, and has done extensive investigatory reporting on the issue.&nbsp; You can listen to the episode by searching for “The Nebraska Way” on Apple Podcasts.If you have questions about CRT or any other topic, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp; Let’s protect our students from this anti-American ideology, and keep it from being imposed on the next generation of Nebraskans.

Local