DEADWOOD, S.D. (AP) — The South Dakota Commission on Gaming has adopted a revised set of rules to include sports gambling in Deadwood beginning in July. 

Voters approved a constitutional amendment last November which authorized the Legislature to enact a law allowing sports wagering in Deadwood. 

Gov. Kristi Noem signed the sports betting into law in March. 

The commission Tuesday added language for inspecting records for sports wagering equipment, prohibiting suppliers of the equipment from gambling on the sports betting equipment, or from manufacturing slot machines. 

The commission will send the revised rules to the state Legislature’s Interim Rules Review Committee for approval.

DEADWOOD, S.D. (AP) — The South Dakota Commission on Gaming has adopted a revised set of rules to include sports gambling in Deadwood beginning in July. Voters approved a constitutional amendment last November which authorized the Legislature to enact a law allowing sports wagering in Deadwood. Gov. Kristi Noem signed the sports betting into law in March. The commission Tuesday added language for inspecting records for sports wagering equipment, prohibiting suppliers of the equipment from gambling on the sports betting equipment, or from manufacturing slot machines. The commission will send the revised rules to the state Legislature’s Interim Rules Review Committee for approval.

SD Gaming commission revises rules to include sports wagering

OGALLALA, Neb.-For the last 58 years, the Front Street Crystal Palace Revue has entertained audiences while keeping the Old West alive in southwest Nebraska.

The Revue will kick off its 58th season on May 28 with a gunfight at 7:15 and the show starting at 7:30 p.m.

The Revue features an old west shootout as well as a show complete with musical numbers, cowboys, and showgirls.

Organizers describe it as a&nbsp;fun show about life in an old west cattle town, recreating life when cowboys came to town following the cattle drive from Texas.

Featuring local talent from&nbsp;North Platte, Hershey, Arthur, Ogallala, Sutherland, Brule, Paxton, and Grant, made up mostly of college students, the Revue is performed Wednesday through Saturday until July, then Tuesday through Saturday until mid-August.

Tickets for the show are $15 for ages 13 and up, $7 for children ages five to 12, and kids four and under are free.

Organizers recommend making reservations as seating at the performances is limited.&nbsp;

For reservations and showtimes, call 308-284-6000.

&nbsp; Ogallala was the end of the Western or Texas Trail for cowboys bringing cattle from ranches in western Texas to the Union Pacific Railroad for shipment to Chicago and the Spotted Tail Agency in northwest Nebraska. &nbsp;

Approximately seventy-five thousand head of cattle were driven to&nbsp;Ogallala&nbsp;in 1875 and increased to over 100,000 the next year(1876). 

The 1880 census showed the permanent population of&nbsp;Ogallala&nbsp;to be 114 people. However, from early spring until late fall, the Cowboy Capital hosted a multitude of cowhands, cattle barons, saloon operators, gamblers, dance hall girls, and tradesmen.&nbsp;

Ogallala&nbsp;has been labeled as a rough and tumble, wild-west town, perhaps due to the 17 violent deaths recorded during the cattle boom. &nbsp;

The Crystal Palace was a real-life early saloon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostOGALLALA, Neb.-For the last 58 years, the Front Street Crystal Palace Revue has entertained audiences while keeping the Old West alive in southwest Nebraska.The Revue will kick off its 58th season on May 28 with a gunfight at 7:15 and the show starting at 7:30 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621437490376.png" alt="Photo: Crystal Palace Revue" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Crystal Palace Revue</figcaption>
 </figure>The Revue features an old west shootout as well as a show complete with musical numbers, cowboys, and showgirls.Organizers describe it as a&nbsp;fun show about life in an old west cattle town, recreating life when cowboys came to town following the cattle drive from Texas.Featuring local talent from&nbsp;North Platte, Hershey, Arthur, Ogallala, Sutherland, Brule, Paxton, and Grant, made up mostly of college students, the Revue is performed Wednesday through Saturday until July, then Tuesday through Saturday until mid-August.Tickets for the show are $15 for ages 13 and up, $7 for children ages five to 12, and kids four and under are free.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621437517919.png" alt="Photo: Crystal Palace Revue" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Crystal Palace Revue</figcaption>
 </figure>Organizers recommend making reservations as seating at the performances is limited.&nbsp;For reservations and showtimes, call 308-284-6000.<h2>Some History</h2>&nbsp; Ogallala was the end of the Western or Texas Trail for cowboys bringing cattle from ranches in western Texas to the Union Pacific Railroad for shipment to Chicago and the Spotted Tail Agency in northwest Nebraska. &nbsp;Approximately seventy-five thousand head of cattle were driven to&nbsp;Ogallala&nbsp;in 1875 and increased to over 100,000 the next year(1876). The 1880 census showed the permanent population of&nbsp;Ogallala&nbsp;to be 114 people. However, from early spring until late fall, the Cowboy Capital hosted a multitude of cowhands, cattle barons, saloon operators, gamblers, dance hall girls, and tradesmen.&nbsp;Ogallala&nbsp;has been labeled as a rough and tumble, wild-west town, perhaps due to the 17 violent deaths recorded during the cattle boom. &nbsp;The Crystal Palace was a real-life early saloon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ogallala's Crystal Palace Revue kicks of 58th season next week

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force&nbsp;

Last week the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that they were offering an Emergency Broadband Benefit as part of the nation’s COVID relief. This new benefit will provide Internet service, connecting eligible households to virtual classrooms, jobs, critical healthcare services, and much more.

The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers. The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.

A household is eligible if a member of the household meets&nbsp;one&nbsp;of the criteria below:

▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Has an income that is at or below 135% of the&nbsp;Federal Poverty Guidelines&nbsp;($26,500 x 135% = $35,775 for a household of four) or participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline;&nbsp;

▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program;

▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;

▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020 and the household had a total income in 2020 at or below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers.

Various broadband providers, including those offering landline and wireless broadband, are participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit. These include all the Internet service providers in our area: ALLO, CenturyLink, Hemingford Cooperative Telephone, Mobius, Spectrum, TracFone, Verizon, Viaero, and VistaBeam.

There are three ways for eligible households to apply:

▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact your preferred participating broadband provider&nbsp;directly to learn about their application process and what they are offering.

▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Go to&nbsp;<a href="http://getemergencybroadband.org/" target="_blank">GetEmergencyBroadband.org</a>&nbsp;to apply online and to find participating providers near you.

▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Call 833-511-0311 for a mail-in application, and return it along with copies of documents showing proof of eligibility to: Emergency Broadband Support Center P.O. Box 7081 London, KY 40742

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force&nbsp;Last week the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that they were offering an Emergency Broadband Benefit as part of the nation’s COVID relief. This new benefit will provide Internet service, connecting eligible households to virtual classrooms, jobs, critical healthcare services, and much more.The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers. The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.A household is eligible if a member of the household meets&nbsp;one&nbsp;of the criteria below:▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Has an income that is at or below 135% of the&nbsp;Federal Poverty Guidelines&nbsp;($26,500 x 135% = $35,775 for a household of four) or participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Lifeline;&nbsp;▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program;▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Experienced a substantial loss of income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020 and the household had a total income in 2020 at or below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers.Various broadband providers, including those offering landline and wireless broadband, are participating in the Emergency Broadband Benefit. These include all the Internet service providers in our area: ALLO, CenturyLink, Hemingford Cooperative Telephone, Mobius, Spectrum, TracFone, Verizon, Viaero, and VistaBeam.There are three ways for eligible households to apply:▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact your preferred participating broadband provider&nbsp;directly to learn about their application process and what they are offering.▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Go to&nbsp;<a href="http://getemergencybroadband.org/" target="_blank">GetEmergencyBroadband.org</a>&nbsp;to apply online and to find participating providers near you.▪&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Call 833-511-0311 for a mail-in application, and return it along with copies of documents showing proof of eligibility to: Emergency Broadband Support Center P.O. Box 7081 London, KY 40742

Poverty In Our Area: Emergency broadband benefit

LINCOLN, Neb.-The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is extending an invitation that allows all 2020 graduates to participate in an&nbsp;<a href="https://commencement.unl.edu/2020-graduates">in-person commencement celebration on Aug. 13-14 at Pinnacle Bank Arena</a>.

Due to&nbsp;COVID-19 restrictions, the university held commencement exercises virtually in 2020. Led by national successes in vaccination and virus declines, the university is gradually returning to normal activity levels. Recent campus shifts include holding a physically distanced commencement on May 8; planning for 100 percent in-person courses in the fall 2021 semester; and hosting the expanded August commencement with 2020&nbsp;graduates.

“This is your chance to experience all the pomp and circumstance of an in-person Nebraska commencement ceremony surrounded by your fellow graduates and family — and to cross the stage,” the May 18 message to 2020 grads&nbsp;read.

Graduates have until June 4 to reserve their spot in the celebration. An&nbsp;RSVP&nbsp;form is available&nbsp;<a href="https://research.unl.edu/events/event_unl_nuramp.php?EMSEventUUID=386640e9-e3a9-4e20-94ab-abf17a86d10b">here</a>. Final details on the August ceremony will be announced no later than the week of June&nbsp;28.

All 2020 graduates who cannot attend the August commencement will continue to have the opportunity to participate in future in-person graduation&nbsp;celebrations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621431222875.png" alt="Nebraska Law graduates (from left) Claudia Brock, Sarah O’Neill and Rachel Lowe walk across the pedestrian bridge toward Pinnacle Bank Arena before commencement on May 7. Photo: Craig Chandler-University Communication" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Law graduates (from left) Claudia Brock, Sarah O’Neill and Rachel Lowe walk across the pedestrian bridge toward Pinnacle Bank Arena before commencement on May 7. Photo: Craig Chandler-University Communication</figcaption>
 </figure>From the UNL NewsroomLINCOLN, Neb.-The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is extending an invitation that allows all 2020 graduates to participate in an&nbsp;<a href="https://commencement.unl.edu/2020-graduates">in-person commencement celebration on Aug. 13-14 at Pinnacle Bank Arena</a>.Due to&nbsp;COVID-19 restrictions, the university held commencement exercises virtually in 2020. Led by national successes in vaccination and virus declines, the university is gradually returning to normal activity levels. Recent campus shifts include holding a physically distanced commencement on May 8; planning for 100 percent in-person courses in the fall 2021 semester; and hosting the expanded August commencement with 2020&nbsp;graduates.“This is your chance to experience all the pomp and circumstance of an in-person Nebraska commencement ceremony surrounded by your fellow graduates and family — and to cross the stage,” the May 18 message to 2020 grads&nbsp;read.Graduates have until June 4 to reserve their spot in the celebration. An&nbsp;RSVP&nbsp;form is available&nbsp;<a href="https://research.unl.edu/events/event_unl_nuramp.php?EMSEventUUID=386640e9-e3a9-4e20-94ab-abf17a86d10b">here</a>. Final details on the August ceremony will be announced no later than the week of June&nbsp;28.All 2020 graduates who cannot attend the August commencement will continue to have the opportunity to participate in future in-person graduation&nbsp;celebrations.

2020 UNL grads invited to attend 2021 ceremony

SCOTTSBLUFF - Rebecca Kautz, Western Nebraska Community College Nursing Instructor/Program Director was honored as a winner of the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty designation from the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).

The award is given to those that demonstrate passion and a willingness to support students both inside and outside of the classroom.

"I am extremely honored to be recognized for the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty designation, and I am proud to be part of Western Nebraska Community College’s (WNCC) mission," Kautz said. "I am fortunate to work with a great community of staff, faculty, and leadership that support serving students, empowering learners, and changing lives."

Kautz has been involved in the healthcare field for 35 years, including 15 years in nursing education. Kautz has been the WNCC Nursing program director for five years and also served on multiple committees at WNCC.

"I value the lived experiences I have had with students and patients over the course of the past 35 years," she said. "I have been witness to the strength of the human will, fragility of human life, and the resilience of nursing students who are able to overcome day-to-day challenges to pursue their dreams to join the noble profession of nursing."

Kautz and the rest of the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty honorees will be recognized at the AACC's virtual conference on May 20.

About Western Nebraska Community College

For more than 90 years, Western Nebraska Community College has been educating residents of Nebraska's Panhandle. With campus locations in Alliance, Scottsbluff, and Sidney, WNCC offers educational, training, and growth opportunities for students, partners, and community members throughout its 12-½ county service area.

SCOTTSBLUFF - Rebecca Kautz, Western Nebraska Community College Nursing Instructor/Program Director was honored as a winner of the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty designation from the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).The award is given to those that demonstrate passion and a willingness to support students both inside and outside of the classroom."I am extremely honored to be recognized for the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty designation, and I am proud to be part of Western Nebraska Community College’s (WNCC) mission," Kautz said. "I am fortunate to work with a great community of staff, faculty, and leadership that support serving students, empowering learners, and changing lives."Kautz has been involved in the healthcare field for 35 years, including 15 years in nursing education. Kautz has been the WNCC Nursing program director for five years and also served on multiple committees at WNCC."I value the lived experiences I have had with students and patients over the course of the past 35 years," she said. "I have been witness to the strength of the human will, fragility of human life, and the resilience of nursing students who are able to overcome day-to-day challenges to pursue their dreams to join the noble profession of nursing."Kautz and the rest of the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty honorees will be recognized at the AACC's virtual conference on May 20.About Western Nebraska Community CollegeFor more than 90 years, Western Nebraska Community College has been educating residents of Nebraska's Panhandle. With campus locations in Alliance, Scottsbluff, and Sidney, WNCC offers educational, training, and growth opportunities for students, partners, and community members throughout its 12-½ county service area.

WNCC Nursing Program Director earns Distinguished Faculty Award

Through the years, the Good Life has been forged by pioneers and entrepreneurs in search of opportunities. &nbsp;They put down roots and built welcoming communities that created great jobs for families looking to make a new start. &nbsp;Along the way, Nebraska’s love and respect for law and order has made our state great.&nbsp; Our state motto is “equality before the law” – and we live by this principle by fairly and consistently applying the law to everyone.&nbsp;

Regrettably, forces at the national and state level are undermining our country’s and Nebraska’s work to uphold law and order regarding immigration.

If you’ve watched the news in the last couple of months, you have likely seen reporting about&nbsp;the immigration crisis on our border with Mexico.&nbsp; This crisis was created by President Joe Biden’s actions to weaken our country’s immigration policies.&nbsp; By watering down our country’s border protections, he has sent a message to Central American countries that the U.S. border is open. &nbsp;In April, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) made the fewest monthly deportations ever recorded, even as the number of illegal crossings at the border surged to its highest point in 20 years. &nbsp;In March, there were about 16,000 unaccompanied minors crossing the border and about 14,000 in April.

The Biden-Harris Administration has done almost nothing to solve the problem they’ve created.&nbsp; On March 24th, the President charged Vice President Kamala Harris to deal with the rush of migrants to our southern border.&nbsp; Since then, she’s neither visited the border nor held a press conference to discuss her plans to resolve the problem.&nbsp; This inaction has allowed the crisis to fester.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Instead of addressing the crisis at the border, the Biden-Harris Administration has tried to send migrant children to the states. &nbsp;Nebraska has declined a request from the Biden-Harris Administration to house migrant children in our state.&nbsp; We are reserving our limited resources for serving our kids.&nbsp; We do not want our kids harmed as the result of President Biden’s bad policies.&nbsp; Nor do we have the appropriate resources for this migrant population.&nbsp; As in the past, the Biden-Harris Administration should focus on working with Central American governments to reunite the children with their families in their home countries instead of pursuing the risky strategy of scattering them across the United States.&nbsp; As I recently wrote in a letter along with other Governors to the President, “The cause of the border crisis is entirely due to reckless federal policy reversals executed within your first 100 days in office.”&nbsp;

As the Biden-Harris Administration struggles to address a crisis of their own creation, State Senators are weighing legislation that would weaken state law barring illegal immigrants from accessing public benefits. &nbsp;This week, the Nebraska Legislature voted to advance LB 298—a bill to extend unemployment benefits to illegal immigrants living in Nebraska.&nbsp; The bill chips away at a state law enacted with overwhelming support in 2009 that bars illegal immigrants from receiving taxpayer-paid benefits. &nbsp;State Senators should heed the lesson of the unfolding crisis on our nation’s border with Mexico.&nbsp; It clearly shows what happens when immigration laws are watered down.&nbsp; Nebraska has a vibrant legal immigrant population.&nbsp; When the Legislature rewards illegal behavior they reduce the incentive to follow the law to come to our state. &nbsp;When illegal immigrants cut in front of people who followed the rules to come here, people lose respect for the law and are emboldened to break it.&nbsp;

Some have tried to argue that all workers regardless of immigration status deserve to participate in our unemployment system because they pay taxes on their wages.&nbsp; This simply is not true. &nbsp;Nebraska’s unemployment system is funded by taxes paid for by employers – not by workers.

Rather than weakening Nebraska’s laws, State Senators should advocate for Congress to fix our immigration system.&nbsp; LB 298 would not only serve to undermine the rule of law, it would also be unfair to the permanent residents, naturalized citizens, and immigrants who have dutifully adhered to U.S. law.&nbsp; I strongly urge the Legislature to reject this bad legislation. &nbsp;You can contact your State Senator to let them know you support the rule of law in our country.&nbsp; You can find contact information for your representative at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraskalegislature.gov%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C4a907071bf39439b3ac108d91a3b7948%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637569665041626002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=iMEYhZdklMeCYNNF6sT8eHyXQyNsyE7IpOjwc6QDnMk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nebraskalegislature.gov</a>.

The story of Nebraska has been written by brave men and women who came to our state from around the world and found success through their grit and determination.&nbsp; As we grow, we’ll continue to welcome people who have followed the rules to come to our state.&nbsp; If you have questions about LB 298, or other legislative matters, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp;

By Gov. Pete RickettsThrough the years, the Good Life has been forged by pioneers and entrepreneurs in search of opportunities. &nbsp;They put down roots and built welcoming communities that created great jobs for families looking to make a new start. &nbsp;Along the way, Nebraska’s love and respect for law and order has made our state great.&nbsp; Our state motto is “equality before the law” – and we live by this principle by fairly and consistently applying the law to everyone.&nbsp;Regrettably, forces at the national and state level are undermining our country’s and Nebraska’s work to uphold law and order regarding immigration.If you’ve watched the news in the last couple of months, you have likely seen reporting about&nbsp;the immigration crisis on our border with Mexico.&nbsp; This crisis was created by President Joe Biden’s actions to weaken our country’s immigration policies.&nbsp; By watering down our country’s border protections, he has sent a message to Central American countries that the U.S. border is open. &nbsp;In April, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) made the fewest monthly deportations ever recorded, even as the number of illegal crossings at the border surged to its highest point in 20 years. &nbsp;In March, there were about 16,000 unaccompanied minors crossing the border and about 14,000 in April.The Biden-Harris Administration has done almost nothing to solve the problem they’ve created.&nbsp; On March 24th, the President charged Vice President Kamala Harris to deal with the rush of migrants to our southern border.&nbsp; Since then, she’s neither visited the border nor held a press conference to discuss her plans to resolve the problem.&nbsp; This inaction has allowed the crisis to fester.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Instead of addressing the crisis at the border, the Biden-Harris Administration has tried to send migrant children to the states. &nbsp;Nebraska has declined a request from the Biden-Harris Administration to house migrant children in our state.&nbsp; We are reserving our limited resources for serving our kids.&nbsp; We do not want our kids harmed as the result of President Biden’s bad policies.&nbsp; Nor do we have the appropriate resources for this migrant population.&nbsp; As in the past, the Biden-Harris Administration should focus on working with Central American governments to reunite the children with their families in their home countries instead of pursuing the risky strategy of scattering them across the United States.&nbsp; As I recently wrote in a letter along with other Governors to the President, “The cause of the border crisis is entirely due to reckless federal policy reversals executed within your first 100 days in office.”&nbsp;As the Biden-Harris Administration struggles to address a crisis of their own creation, State Senators are weighing legislation that would weaken state law barring illegal immigrants from accessing public benefits. &nbsp;This week, the Nebraska Legislature voted to advance LB 298—a bill to extend unemployment benefits to illegal immigrants living in Nebraska.&nbsp; The bill chips away at a state law enacted with overwhelming support in 2009 that bars illegal immigrants from receiving taxpayer-paid benefits. &nbsp;State Senators should heed the lesson of the unfolding crisis on our nation’s border with Mexico.&nbsp; It clearly shows what happens when immigration laws are watered down.&nbsp; Nebraska has a vibrant legal immigrant population.&nbsp; When the Legislature rewards illegal behavior they reduce the incentive to follow the law to come to our state. &nbsp;When illegal immigrants cut in front of people who followed the rules to come here, people lose respect for the law and are emboldened to break it.&nbsp;Some have tried to argue that all workers regardless of immigration status deserve to participate in our unemployment system because they pay taxes on their wages.&nbsp; This simply is not true. &nbsp;Nebraska’s unemployment system is funded by taxes paid for by employers – not by workers.Rather than weakening Nebraska’s laws, State Senators should advocate for Congress to fix our immigration system.&nbsp; LB 298 would not only serve to undermine the rule of law, it would also be unfair to the permanent residents, naturalized citizens, and immigrants who have dutifully adhered to U.S. law.&nbsp; I strongly urge the Legislature to reject this bad legislation. &nbsp;You can contact your State Senator to let them know you support the rule of law in our country.&nbsp; You can find contact information for your representative at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraskalegislature.gov%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C4a907071bf39439b3ac108d91a3b7948%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637569665041626002%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=iMEYhZdklMeCYNNF6sT8eHyXQyNsyE7IpOjwc6QDnMk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nebraskalegislature.gov</a>.The story of Nebraska has been written by brave men and women who came to our state from around the world and found success through their grit and determination.&nbsp; As we grow, we’ll continue to welcome people who have followed the rules to come to our state.&nbsp; If you have questions about LB 298, or other legislative matters, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts: Respecting the law in NE and at the border

News Release Nebraska Dept. of Transportation

News Release Nebraska Dept. of Transportation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621382936959.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

15 die on Nebraska roads in April

The Chadron City Council voted to approve&nbsp;an employment agreement with John Sutherland as the new city manager at the May 17 meeting.&nbsp;

The council has been searching for a new city manager since the end of December, 2020. Sutherland will start his role on June 1.&nbsp; "John's got 40 plus years of management experience," Chadron Mayor Mark Werner said. "He retired about two years ago from being city manager of a town our size in southeast Colorado [Leyden]. He figured out he wasn't really ready to be retired. We really did get a very experienced person with a lot of energy and I think he's going to do very well for us." Sutherland retired to Rapid City, South Dakota to be close to family. He recently moved to Chadron, which is a few hours away.&nbsp; Werner said he thinks Sutherland will bring many benefits to the Chadron community.&nbsp; "He's going to be starting off in accounting...so the ability to build a budget," Werner said. "He ran an airport several times. He has extensive experience working with Native American communities, which I think is kind of neat. Sometimes we have a tough time reaching out to that. He's worked with three communities that have had significant Native American presence. He seems pretty excited about communicating with that part of our population. He was very good at getting grants in Leyden...so wealth of experience there. I think he's going to be a real hands on guy." Chadron City Council voted 5-0 to hire Sutherland.&nbsp; "I got out of the&nbsp;negotiation business," Werner said. "There was the Vice Mayor [Cheryl Welch] and one of our other council members [Keith Crofutt] wanted to do the negotiations. Those two and two of our staff members got together with John and came up with a very innovative package since he's already retired. He didn't want a retirement package. We made a small adjustment to plus up his salary. Not quite the way the money would have been if he would have taken his retirement. He got an extra $5,000 and we saved $2,000." Werner said Sutherland's salary is a little over $100,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Chadron City Council voted to approve&nbsp;an employment agreement with John Sutherland as the new city manager at the May 17 meeting.&nbsp;The council has been searching for a new city manager since the end of December, 2020. Sutherland will start his role on June 1.&nbsp; "John's got 40 plus years of management experience," Chadron Mayor Mark Werner said. "He retired about two years ago from being city manager of a town our size in southeast Colorado [Leyden]. He figured out he wasn't really ready to be retired. We really did get a very experienced person with a lot of energy and I think he's going to do very well for us." Sutherland retired to Rapid City, South Dakota to be close to family. He recently moved to Chadron, which is a few hours away.&nbsp; Werner said he thinks Sutherland will bring many benefits to the Chadron community.&nbsp; "He's going to be starting off in accounting...so the ability to build a budget," Werner said. "He ran an airport several times. He has extensive experience working with Native American communities, which I think is kind of neat. Sometimes we have a tough time reaching out to that. He's worked with three communities that have had significant Native American presence. He seems pretty excited about communicating with that part of our population. He was very good at getting grants in Leyden...so wealth of experience there. I think he's going to be a real hands on guy." Chadron City Council voted 5-0 to hire Sutherland.&nbsp; "I got out of the&nbsp;negotiation business," Werner said. "There was the Vice Mayor [Cheryl Welch] and one of our other council members [Keith Crofutt] wanted to do the negotiations. Those two and two of our staff members got together with John and came up with a very innovative package since he's already retired. He didn't want a retirement package. We made a small adjustment to plus up his salary. Not quite the way the money would have been if he would have taken his retirement. He got an extra $5,000 and we saved $2,000." Werner said Sutherland's salary is a little over $100,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Chadron council votes to hire John Sutherland as city manager

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers have rejected state-mandated coronavirus protections for meatpacking workers. 

Opponents argued that slaughterhouses have already taken precautions and that the pandemic is nearly over. 

Supporters say it was necessary to ensure that all plants are keeping their employees safe.

 Lawmakers voted, 25-18, on Tuesday to sideline the measure for the rest of the year. 

The bill faced an uphill battle because of concerns raised by Gov. Pete Ricketts. 

Lawmakers would have needed at least 30 supportive votes to override a veto. 

An estimated 7,382 Nebraska meatpacking workers have tested positive since the pandemic began, 256 have been hospitalized and 28 have died.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers have rejected state-mandated coronavirus protections for meatpacking workers. Opponents argued that slaughterhouses have already taken precautions and that the pandemic is nearly over. Supporters say it was necessary to ensure that all plants are keeping their employees safe. Lawmakers voted, 25-18, on Tuesday to sideline the measure for the rest of the year. The bill faced an uphill battle because of concerns raised by Gov. Pete Ricketts. Lawmakers would have needed at least 30 supportive votes to override a veto. An estimated 7,382 Nebraska meatpacking workers have tested positive since the pandemic began, 256 have been hospitalized and 28 have died.

Nebraska rejects mandated virus protections for meat workers

By Kyren Gibson, Carnegie Arts Center Director

Announcing the arrival of Carnegie’s new exhibit, “Shallows” from artist Hannah Demma on display in the Upper Skala and Garwood Galleries from May 18 to June 26.

Bio: Hannah Demma is an avid outdoorswoman, outdoor educator, and lifelong Nebraskan. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2017, with an emphasis on printmaking and drawing and is currently pursuing her Masters in Fine Art at her alma mater.&nbsp;Her mixed-media approach to art speaks to aspects of science and nature both familiar and strange, and mines the environment for inspiration, examining the intersection of the imaginative and the biological, of the creative and the empirical. Her process stirs the imagination and sparks excitement for exploration and adventure.&nbsp;

Since graduation, Hannah received the Kimmel Foundation Emerging Artist Award, and a Mayor’s Art Award in 2018. She completed an artist residency at the Kimmel Harding Nelson Center in Nebraska City, and served as a visiting artist at Maxey Elementary School. Hannah’s passion for art education has taken her to Lincoln, Montana where she spent a month leading the education programing for an outdoor sculpture park, Blackfoot Pathways Sculpture in the Wild. Hannah has served as coordinator for the Cedar Point Biological Station Art Program since 2018, as well as worked as lead art instructor for the Arts are Basic summer camp at Culler Middle School. In addition to teaching, Hannah has maintained a busy studio practice and exhibition schedule and looks forward to expanding her studio practice to include new mediums and collaborations within the college and the community at large.&nbsp;

Artist Statement: What does it mean to be enchanted? To me it is something that happens several times a day. Often it is those moments spent in nature when I am paddling or hiking. However, enchantment also happens at times when I am doing something as mundane as washing dishes— noticing the delicate rainbows that form when the soap meets the light coming through the window above the sink. It is the surprising contrasts between flowering plants in the springtime, or unexpected pops of color from the duckweed floating ethereally on the surface of some murky Nebraska lake. It is also the way leftover casserole layers look gorgeously stratified in a glass container in the fridge. I make work that aims to enchant the viewer. Using the formal elements of art (particularly color, texture, shape, and pattern) as a basis for my abstractions of nature, science, and printed textiles, I surprise and stimulate the viewer’s senses in hopes of taking them out of their worries and into a state of reverie. I use paint primarily because of its immediacy—I see it in my mind, put paint to paper, and have captured it. When I apply opaque dots of gouache to tissue paper and then wax the sheets, the dots appear to float in space, making me feel like I have isolated and suspended a single layer of duckweed. That spontaneity allows for unexpected results that feel alive. I have come to consider paper my primary medium. It is ancient and humble, but adaptable to my own shifting modes of art-making. Paper, when treated, can resemble textiles and fabric. I love thinking about the ways it can flow and drape around other structures. I want to pique the curiosity of the viewer with the materiality of my work. This newer addition of handmade paper and pulp-paintings in my work has added a layer of materials that feels full of infinite possibilities for color and pattern. Working in the studio puts me in a constant state of enchantment. The word has otherworldly connotations—the idea of being bewitched, possessed, or spellbound. Certainly, I feel spellbound while I work. In the studio, repetition becomes pattern, pattern becomes rhythm, rhythm becomes movement, and these things in combination produce results. An effect. But I also consider it a theme of my work to find the otherworldly in nature. Natural effects can produce seemingly supernatural results in the viewer—evoking a sense, a memory, an emotion. I might even consider that the purest intention of the artist.

Summer goals: This summer I plan to continue to develop this series of gouache and acrylic paintings on top of the pulp-paintings on handmade paper. I will make larger sheets of paper at Constellation Studios, but also at the invitation of past UNL visiting artist Shannon Brock, in August I will have the opportunity to make paper in her new studio in Montgomery City, Missouri. By working larger, I think I can further envelop the vision of the viewer, and a shift in scale will bring them into my enchantment trap. I also plan to begin working in textile, which is something I’ve never done and prefer to practice without anyone watching me. It is my goal to begin to use fabric and paper interchangeably in an effort to continue to develop my works into large-scale installations over the summer.&nbsp;

On display in the Studio Gallery is “Adventures in Art.” The exhibit is on display from May 4 – June 12 and is the works of Robert Peltz’ winter art camp students. The camp was 6 weeks long with two youth sessions and one teen session.&nbsp; Ages range from 7 years old to 17 years old. The students work in wide range of media including sculpture, spin art, mixed media, paint, chalk, and drawing. Peltz has been Carnegie’s youth art camp instructor for over eleven years. He has successfully worked in numerous art fields, including impressionistic painting, abstract design, illustration, portraiture and cartooning.&nbsp; He is a retired creative director for an advertising firm in Denver, CO working for major corporations.&nbsp; His clients have included the United States Air Force, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Liberty Mutual Insurance, AT&amp;T and United Way.&nbsp; He has won three international and seven national awards for his art, including a White House award for illustration and two international Summit Awards for design. We are fortunate to have him involved with our organization. His teaching skills are excellent and his dedication to Carnegie’s vision is extraordinary.

We want to shout out to our generous local businesses who fund free exhibits for our community and exhibition opportunities for artists of all ages everywhere. 

Thank you to our May Sponsors Bates-Gould Funeral Home and Western Potato and our June sponsor WESTCO. Huge thanks to our operational grantors: Nebraska Arts Council, Nebraska Cultural Endowment, Peter Kiewit Foundation. Also big thanks to our program grantors Snow Redfern Foundation, the Mission Store Mini Grant, Dillon Foundation, C.A. Story Foundation, Newblom Foundation, and the Kimmel Foundation. These organizations are who make our education program possible by financially supporting our instructors and supply costs.

By Kyren Gibson, Carnegie Arts Center DirectorAnnouncing the arrival of Carnegie’s new exhibit, “Shallows” from artist Hannah Demma on display in the Upper Skala and Garwood Galleries from May 18 to June 26. Bio: Hannah Demma is an avid outdoorswoman, outdoor educator, and lifelong Nebraskan. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2017, with an emphasis on printmaking and drawing and is currently pursuing her Masters in Fine Art at her alma mater.&nbsp;Her mixed-media approach to art speaks to aspects of science and nature both familiar and strange, and mines the environment for inspiration, examining the intersection of the imaginative and the biological, of the creative and the empirical. Her process stirs the imagination and sparks excitement for exploration and adventure.&nbsp;Since graduation, Hannah received the Kimmel Foundation Emerging Artist Award, and a Mayor’s Art Award in 2018. She completed an artist residency at the Kimmel Harding Nelson Center in Nebraska City, and served as a visiting artist at Maxey Elementary School. Hannah’s passion for art education has taken her to Lincoln, Montana where she spent a month leading the education programing for an outdoor sculpture park, Blackfoot Pathways Sculpture in the Wild. Hannah has served as coordinator for the Cedar Point Biological Station Art Program since 2018, as well as worked as lead art instructor for the Arts are Basic summer camp at Culler Middle School. In addition to teaching, Hannah has maintained a busy studio practice and exhibition schedule and looks forward to expanding her studio practice to include new mediums and collaborations within the college and the community at large.&nbsp;Artist Statement: What does it mean to be enchanted? To me it is something that happens several times a day. Often it is those moments spent in nature when I am paddling or hiking. However, enchantment also happens at times when I am doing something as mundane as washing dishes— noticing the delicate rainbows that form when the soap meets the light coming through the window above the sink. It is the surprising contrasts between flowering plants in the springtime, or unexpected pops of color from the duckweed floating ethereally on the surface of some murky Nebraska lake. It is also the way leftover casserole layers look gorgeously stratified in a glass container in the fridge. I make work that aims to enchant the viewer. Using the formal elements of art (particularly color, texture, shape, and pattern) as a basis for my abstractions of nature, science, and printed textiles, I surprise and stimulate the viewer’s senses in hopes of taking them out of their worries and into a state of reverie. I use paint primarily because of its immediacy—I see it in my mind, put paint to paper, and have captured it. When I apply opaque dots of gouache to tissue paper and then wax the sheets, the dots appear to float in space, making me feel like I have isolated and suspended a single layer of duckweed. That spontaneity allows for unexpected results that feel alive. I have come to consider paper my primary medium. It is ancient and humble, but adaptable to my own shifting modes of art-making. Paper, when treated, can resemble textiles and fabric. I love thinking about the ways it can flow and drape around other structures. I want to pique the curiosity of the viewer with the materiality of my work. This newer addition of handmade paper and pulp-paintings in my work has added a layer of materials that feels full of infinite possibilities for color and pattern. Working in the studio puts me in a constant state of enchantment. The word has otherworldly connotations—the idea of being bewitched, possessed, or spellbound. Certainly, I feel spellbound while I work. In the studio, repetition becomes pattern, pattern becomes rhythm, rhythm becomes movement, and these things in combination produce results. An effect. But I also consider it a theme of my work to find the otherworldly in nature. Natural effects can produce seemingly supernatural results in the viewer—evoking a sense, a memory, an emotion. I might even consider that the purest intention of the artist. Summer goals: This summer I plan to continue to develop this series of gouache and acrylic paintings on top of the pulp-paintings on handmade paper. I will make larger sheets of paper at Constellation Studios, but also at the invitation of past UNL visiting artist Shannon Brock, in August I will have the opportunity to make paper in her new studio in Montgomery City, Missouri. By working larger, I think I can further envelop the vision of the viewer, and a shift in scale will bring them into my enchantment trap. I also plan to begin working in textile, which is something I’ve never done and prefer to practice without anyone watching me. It is my goal to begin to use fabric and paper interchangeably in an effort to continue to develop my works into large-scale installations over the summer.&nbsp;On display in the Studio Gallery is “Adventures in Art.” The exhibit is on display from May 4 – June 12 and is the works of Robert Peltz’ winter art camp students. The camp was 6 weeks long with two youth sessions and one teen session.&nbsp; Ages range from 7 years old to 17 years old. The students work in wide range of media including sculpture, spin art, mixed media, paint, chalk, and drawing. Peltz has been Carnegie’s youth art camp instructor for over eleven years. He has successfully worked in numerous art fields, including impressionistic painting, abstract design, illustration, portraiture and cartooning.&nbsp; He is a retired creative director for an advertising firm in Denver, CO working for major corporations.&nbsp; His clients have included the United States Air Force, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Liberty Mutual Insurance, AT&amp;T and United Way.&nbsp; He has won three international and seven national awards for his art, including a White House award for illustration and two international Summit Awards for design. We are fortunate to have him involved with our organization. His teaching skills are excellent and his dedication to Carnegie’s vision is extraordinary.We want to shout out to our generous local businesses who fund free exhibits for our community and exhibition opportunities for artists of all ages everywhere. Thank you to our May Sponsors Bates-Gould Funeral Home and Western Potato and our June sponsor WESTCO. Huge thanks to our operational grantors: Nebraska Arts Council, Nebraska Cultural Endowment, Peter Kiewit Foundation. Also big thanks to our program grantors Snow Redfern Foundation, the Mission Store Mini Grant, Dillon Foundation, C.A. Story Foundation, Newblom Foundation, and the Kimmel Foundation. These organizations are who make our education program possible by financially supporting our instructors and supply costs.

Carnegie Arts Center welcomes new 'Shallows' exhibit

Car, Bike, Truck Show to be held at Chadron State Park 

🎙 Post Podcast: Karen Benzel of United Way of Western Nebraska

Dr. James Lawler joined the Monday, May 17 Panhandle briefing to discuss COVID and the origins of the disinformation pandemic.

Lawler’s background with a career in the Navy working around emerging infectious diseases and biodefense and later through security briefings at the White House in the National Security Council helped inform his presentation.

“What is happening is not completely accidental, nor is it innocuous,” Lawler explained.

Misinformation is a type of false information, which could be honest mistakes and misunderstandings, but disinformation is deliberately used to create and spread confusion and is the result of nefarious activity. Lawler assured listeners it’s quite real and quite robust.

The internet has become a powerful tool for misinformation and disinformation because it’s much easier to spread. There’s been research to show that both spread much more quickly than truth does.

Many internet and social media sites, like Facebook and Twitter, sometimes have a whole bunch of outrageous and often controversial claims about COVID and vaccines. All are part of a large network of incorrect and debunked claims that have a profound effect on how people perceive the pandemic.

Trolls, bots, and cyborgs are part of the campaign to make messages seem like they are getting much more traction on social media than they truly are. People measure value in the number of likes a post may have but many of these likes are generated by bots.

“What we are seeing with COVID and vaccines is that it is part of an intentional campaign to sow discord, confusion, and distrust, not necessarily to sway people’s thinking one way or the other,” said Lawler. “These bots don’t just amplify anti-vax messages, they actually do this by amplifying messages on both sides.”

Lawler reminded listeners that some people take social media sites as gospel and it’s just not true.

Dr. Lawler is the Associate Professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center; Director of International Programs and Innovation at the Global Center for Health Security; and Director of Clinic and Biodefense Research. His recorded presentation is accessible at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/dm29ks94" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/dm29ks94</a>.

Pfizer is now available in the Panhandle and anyone 12 and older can get vaccinated! Self-schedule with two easy steps:

The two steps are encouraged to ease the vaccine process. There is no charge for the vaccine.

<a>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><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.

Two COVID deaths were confirmed, both Box Butte County females, one in her 60s and one in her 70s.

“We share our sympathy in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director. Unified Command confirms 24 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, May 10.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

By PPHDDr. James Lawler joined the Monday, May 17 Panhandle briefing to discuss COVID and the origins of the disinformation pandemic.Lawler’s background with a career in the Navy working around emerging infectious diseases and biodefense and later through security briefings at the White House in the National Security Council helped inform his presentation.“What is happening is not completely accidental, nor is it innocuous,” Lawler explained.Misinformation is a type of false information, which could be honest mistakes and misunderstandings, but disinformation is deliberately used to create and spread confusion and is the result of nefarious activity. Lawler assured listeners it’s quite real and quite robust.The internet has become a powerful tool for misinformation and disinformation because it’s much easier to spread. There’s been research to show that both spread much more quickly than truth does.Many internet and social media sites, like Facebook and Twitter, sometimes have a whole bunch of outrageous and often controversial claims about COVID and vaccines. All are part of a large network of incorrect and debunked claims that have a profound effect on how people perceive the pandemic.Trolls, bots, and cyborgs are part of the campaign to make messages seem like they are getting much more traction on social media than they truly are. People measure value in the number of likes a post may have but many of these likes are generated by bots.“What we are seeing with COVID and vaccines is that it is part of an intentional campaign to sow discord, confusion, and distrust, not necessarily to sway people’s thinking one way or the other,” said Lawler. “These bots don’t just amplify anti-vax messages, they actually do this by amplifying messages on both sides.”Lawler reminded listeners that some people take social media sites as gospel and it’s just not true.Dr. Lawler is the Associate Professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center; Director of International Programs and Innovation at the Global Center for Health Security; and Director of Clinic and Biodefense Research. His recorded presentation is accessible at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/dm29ks94" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/dm29ks94</a>.Pfizer is now available in the Panhandle and anyone 12 and older can get vaccinated! Self-schedule with two easy steps:<ol>
 <li>Register on the vaccinate.ne.gov website.</li><li>For the corresponding counties, pick a location, day, and time that works for you.&nbsp;Dates and times will be added to the links as they are made available.</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>Box Butte/Grant:&nbsp;<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&nbsp;Dave's Pharmacy Hemingford &amp; Alliance, Monday-Friday</li><li>Moderna or Johnson &amp; Johnson 8a-5:30p | Pfizer 2p-5:30p</li><li>Alliance Community Pharmacy, Monday-Friday</li><li>Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson &amp; Johnson 7:30a-6p</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>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&nbsp;Western Community Health Resources, Monday-Friday, 12:30p-1:30p</li><li>Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson &amp; Johnson</li><li>Garden:&nbsp;sign up at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;- provider will call you</li><li>Walk-ins welcome&nbsp;Regional West Garden County Clinic Front Desk, Monday-Friday, 8a-5p</li><li>Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson &amp; Johnson</li><li>Kimball:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome&nbsp;Kimball Health Sevices, Monday-Friday, 8a-4:30p</li><li>Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson &amp; Johnson</li><li>Morrill:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome&nbsp;Morrill County Hospital Clinic, Wednesdays, 8a-4p</li><li>Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson &amp; Johnson</li><li>Sheridan:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38</a></li><li>Scotts Bluff/Banner:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf</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&nbsp;Click on&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf</a>&nbsp;to see availability.</li>
 </ul>The two steps are encouraged to ease the vaccine process. There is no charge for the vaccine.<a>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><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.Two COVID deaths were confirmed, both Box Butte County females, one in her 60s and one in her 70s.“We share our sympathy in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director. Unified Command confirms 24 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, May 10.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621350604179.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-May 17, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 38,678</li><li>Positive: 9,063</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 38</li><li>Last week’s cases: 24</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 9.6%</li><li>Deaths: 196</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 2</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 548</li><li>Doubling time (November 15, 2020 – May 17, 2021): 183 days</li>
 </ul>Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

PPHD: Dr. Lawler shares origins of 'the disinformation pandemic'

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Police say they have made an arrest in the death of a man who was run over by a vehicle in Rapid City last week.

 Authorities say that after investigators spoke with witnesses and reviewed surveillance video, police determined that the driver, the victim and another individual were drinking alcohol in the vehicle while it was parked along a street last Friday night.

 At one point, the victim, 47-year-old Paul Walking, of Pine Ridge, got out of the car and walked around to the rear of the vehicle. 

According to officials, the driver put the car in reverse and backed over the victim, then ran over him a second time when he pulled forward.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Police say they have made an arrest in the death of a man who was run over by a vehicle in Rapid City last week. Authorities say that after investigators spoke with witnesses and reviewed surveillance video, police determined that the driver, the victim and another individual were drinking alcohol in the vehicle while it was parked along a street last Friday night. At one point, the victim, 47-year-old Paul Walking, of Pine Ridge, got out of the car and walked around to the rear of the vehicle. According to officials, the driver put the car in reverse and backed over the victim, then ran over him a second time when he pulled forward.

Driver arrested, accused of running over Rapid City man

Alliance – May is National Pet Month. Come to the Alliance Public Library and check out our display of staff pet photos. Match the pet to the staff member who owns it, and enter to win $50 in Chamber bucks.

 The drawing for the winner from the correct entries will be June 1. One entry per person, and the contest is for adult patrons age 18 and older.

For more information, please contact Emily Nelson at 308-762-1387.

Alliance – May is National Pet Month. Come to the Alliance Public Library and check out our display of staff pet photos. Match the pet to the staff member who owns it, and enter to win $50 in Chamber bucks. The drawing for the winner from the correct entries will be June 1. One entry per person, and the contest is for adult patrons age 18 and older.For more information, please contact Emily Nelson at 308-762-1387.

National Pet Month at the Alliance Public Library 

LINCOLN – Nebraskans will enjoy this summer boating on waters across the state. To mark National Safe Boating Week, May 22-28, 2021, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is urging boaters to keep safety the top priority.

Boaters and paddlers should not take safety for granted. Game and Parks suggests ways boaters may reduce the risk of incidents and help ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the water.

Before Launching&nbsp;– Ensure your boat is in good running condition. Get the boat registered and, if a nonresident, purchase an Aquatic Invasive Species sticker on Game and Parks’ website. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Paddlers of kayaks or canoes should physically inspect their planned take-out point to make sure it is accessible.

Legal Operators&nbsp;– Anyone born after Dec. 31, 1985, who operates a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must have successfully completed the Nebraska boating safety course. Anyone operating a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must be at least 14 years of age. For more information about boating regulations, view the 2021 Nebraska Boating Guide at<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA2MTY3NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.i87lNtdj-v_SfpM4oJq-MKxfm1o66qQa82J_Jh4fTBs/s/497221906/br/106502546415-l" target="_blank">&nbsp;OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>.

Wear a Life Jacket&nbsp;– Children under age 13 and anybody on a personal watercraft are required by law to wear a United States Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. People being towed by a boat on skis, a tube, or other similar device also must wear a life jacket. Every vessel, except sailboards, must carry a flotation device for each person on board.

Avoid Alcohol&nbsp;– Boat operators can become impaired with less alcohol than motor vehicle drivers due to heat and dehydration. Boating Under the Influence is a criminal violation and is enforced actively.

Have All Required Safety Equipment&nbsp;– Life jackets, throw cushions, fire extinguishers and bailing devices are required on most boats.

Be Wary of Surroundings&nbsp;– Look around for other boats, personal watercraft, swimmers, stumps and other hazards. Speeds in excess of 5 mph are prohibited if within 30 yards of any other vessel, swimming area or dock. If padding a kayak or canoe, be aware of possible debris below the surface or under bridges.

Watch the Weather&nbsp;– Storms can pop up quickly in Nebraska. Check the weather in advance and monitor it during the day, if necessary.

Avoid Hypothermia&nbsp;– Even though temperatures are rising, the water still can be cold. Hypothermia is caused by exposure to cold weather or water. Take caution to prevent hypothermia.

Go Fishing&nbsp;– Fishing is heating up across the state. Get your fishing permit at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA2MTY3NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.h8qiHHfEWK3_9ksbFKrjX3vxFMS1DNh76DkHn033vtk/s/497221906/br/106502546415-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;and head to your favorite lake.

LINCOLN – Nebraskans will enjoy this summer boating on waters across the state. To mark National Safe Boating Week, May 22-28, 2021, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is urging boaters to keep safety the top priority.Boaters and paddlers should not take safety for granted. Game and Parks suggests ways boaters may reduce the risk of incidents and help ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the water.Before Launching&nbsp;– Ensure your boat is in good running condition. Get the boat registered and, if a nonresident, purchase an Aquatic Invasive Species sticker on Game and Parks’ website. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Paddlers of kayaks or canoes should physically inspect their planned take-out point to make sure it is accessible.Legal Operators&nbsp;– Anyone born after Dec. 31, 1985, who operates a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must have successfully completed the Nebraska boating safety course. Anyone operating a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must be at least 14 years of age. For more information about boating regulations, view the 2021 Nebraska Boating Guide at<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA2MTY3NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.i87lNtdj-v_SfpM4oJq-MKxfm1o66qQa82J_Jh4fTBs/s/497221906/br/106502546415-l" target="_blank">&nbsp;OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>.Wear a Life Jacket&nbsp;– Children under age 13 and anybody on a personal watercraft are required by law to wear a United States Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. People being towed by a boat on skis, a tube, or other similar device also must wear a life jacket. Every vessel, except sailboards, must carry a flotation device for each person on board.Avoid Alcohol&nbsp;– Boat operators can become impaired with less alcohol than motor vehicle drivers due to heat and dehydration. Boating Under the Influence is a criminal violation and is enforced actively.Have All Required Safety Equipment&nbsp;– Life jackets, throw cushions, fire extinguishers and bailing devices are required on most boats.Be Wary of Surroundings&nbsp;– Look around for other boats, personal watercraft, swimmers, stumps and other hazards. Speeds in excess of 5 mph are prohibited if within 30 yards of any other vessel, swimming area or dock. If padding a kayak or canoe, be aware of possible debris below the surface or under bridges.Watch the Weather&nbsp;– Storms can pop up quickly in Nebraska. Check the weather in advance and monitor it during the day, if necessary.Avoid Hypothermia&nbsp;– Even though temperatures are rising, the water still can be cold. Hypothermia is caused by exposure to cold weather or water. Take caution to prevent hypothermia.Go Fishing&nbsp;– Fishing is heating up across the state. Get your fishing permit at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MTcuNDA2MTY3NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.h8qiHHfEWK3_9ksbFKrjX3vxFMS1DNh76DkHn033vtk/s/497221906/br/106502546415-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;and head to your favorite lake.

Nebraska Game and Parks urges safety while boating

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – Three Chadron State College students submitted successful paper proposals for an undergraduate conference, Victorian Pasts, Presents, and Futures, designed by students at Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin, with the guidance of Lara Karpenko, associate professor of English.

The CSC students are Harley Rhoades of Douglas, Wyoming, Sarah Wagoner of Gering, Nebraska, and Ezra Hare of Chadron. Although unforeseen circumstances prevented Hare from delivering his paper during the April 29 conference, both Rhoades and Wagoner presented their work, which was well received, according to Assistant Professor of English Dr. Kim Cox.

The papers emerged from the students’ final papers for Major Writers: Oscar Wilde (ENG 442) taught by Cox in Fall 2020. She mentored the students as they prepared their papers for the conference.

Rhoades made a case for teaching Oscar Wilde's The Canterville Ghost, alongside his Impressions of America to high school students.

According to Cox, Wagoner’s paper was a fresh take of her own construction on the Guillermo del Toro film Crimson Peak.

“She asserts there's a relationship between childhood and domestic violence and the incestuous relationship at the center of the film, paying particular attention to the film's color story,” Cox said.

Hare’s paper explored the character known as The Dwarf in Wilde's children's story, The Birthday of the Infanta. Hare made an argument for the importance of considering how children's literature has historically depicted and constructed the idea of disability.

Rhoades said presenting for the virtual conference was one of the most unique public speaking situations he has experienced.

“My goal was that the people, specifically English education majors, listening to my presentation would be interested in using it in their future classrooms. Also, I was open to any suggestions that might improve the unit I created. Overall, it was great to connect with other students in my field of study from across the country and internationally,” Rhoades said.

Wagoner said she appreciated the supportive atmosphere of the virtual conference.

“Everyone was very kind as well as open to discussing interpretations of Victorian art. I felt very encouraged by this attitude and the wonderful presentations I was in the presence of,” Wagoner said. “I believe exploration of disturbing themes says much of how far we have come in discussing taboo subjects especially the subject of abuse. Presenting this to peers opens up the important conversation a little more.”

Hare said it was an honor to have his paper accepted.

“I was really proud of the paper I wrote for this conference, so it was really reaffirming to have it accepted. I got to listen and discuss some brilliant ideas during the conference which has me motivated to try and submit something else for another conference in the future,” Hare said.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Three Chadron State College students submitted successful paper proposals for an undergraduate conference, Victorian Pasts, Presents, and Futures, designed by students at Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin, with the guidance of Lara Karpenko, associate professor of English.The CSC students are Harley Rhoades of Douglas, Wyoming, Sarah Wagoner of Gering, Nebraska, and Ezra Hare of Chadron. Although unforeseen circumstances prevented Hare from delivering his paper during the April 29 conference, both Rhoades and Wagoner presented their work, which was well received, according to Assistant Professor of English Dr. Kim Cox.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621293431693.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The papers emerged from the students’ final papers for Major Writers: Oscar Wilde (ENG 442) taught by Cox in Fall 2020. She mentored the students as they prepared their papers for the conference.Rhoades made a case for teaching Oscar Wilde's The Canterville Ghost, alongside his Impressions of America to high school students.According to Cox, Wagoner’s paper was a fresh take of her own construction on the Guillermo del Toro film Crimson Peak.“She asserts there's a relationship between childhood and domestic violence and the incestuous relationship at the center of the film, paying particular attention to the film's color story,” Cox said.Hare’s paper explored the character known as The Dwarf in Wilde's children's story, The Birthday of the Infanta. Hare made an argument for the importance of considering how children's literature has historically depicted and constructed the idea of disability.Rhoades said presenting for the virtual conference was one of the most unique public speaking situations he has experienced.“My goal was that the people, specifically English education majors, listening to my presentation would be interested in using it in their future classrooms. Also, I was open to any suggestions that might improve the unit I created. Overall, it was great to connect with other students in my field of study from across the country and internationally,” Rhoades said.Wagoner said she appreciated the supportive atmosphere of the virtual conference.“Everyone was very kind as well as open to discussing interpretations of Victorian art. I felt very encouraged by this attitude and the wonderful presentations I was in the presence of,” Wagoner said. “I believe exploration of disturbing themes says much of how far we have come in discussing taboo subjects especially the subject of abuse. Presenting this to peers opens up the important conversation a little more.”Hare said it was an honor to have his paper accepted.“I was really proud of the paper I wrote for this conference, so it was really reaffirming to have it accepted. I got to listen and discuss some brilliant ideas during the conference which has me motivated to try and submit something else for another conference in the future,” Hare said.

CSC students present in international English online conference

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts is predicting a return to normal in Nebraska’s K-12 schools by this fall after a year of coronavirus restrictions that included mask-wearing in classrooms and remote learning. 

Ricketts says the state appears to be in good shape with its vaccination efforts and virus-related hospitalizations, which have now fallen below 100 statewide. 

He made the comments as he encouraged Nebraska’s new high school graduates to get vaccinated if they haven’t already. 

He says he also supports younger children getting vaccinated, as long as a vaccine has been federally approved for a child’s age group and the parents consent.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts is predicting a return to normal in Nebraska’s K-12 schools by this fall after a year of coronavirus restrictions that included mask-wearing in classrooms and remote learning. Ricketts says the state appears to be in good shape with its vaccination efforts and virus-related hospitalizations, which have now fallen below 100 statewide. He made the comments as he encouraged Nebraska’s new high school graduates to get vaccinated if they haven’t already. He says he also supports younger children getting vaccinated, as long as a vaccine has been federally approved for a child’s age group and the parents consent.

Ricketts predicts return to normal in K-12 schools this fall

During last year’s City of Gordon fireworks display, two volunteer fire department members were injured during the detonation. After these injuries, City Manager Spaugh was contacted by Fire Chief Rich Haller who noted that the Gordon Fire Department would no longer be doing the detonation of the fireworks.

In March of this year, the Fire Department once again confirmed that they would not be available for the detonation. The City of Gordon fully supports the decision of the fire department and understands the risks which they have taken in the past.

The City of Gordon contacted several vendors who are involved in the setup and detonation of fireworks for municipalities, but all companies are booked for this year; some as early as June 28th. 

City Manager Spaugh also contacted Lew’s Fireworks, a company from whom the city has purchased fireworks in the past, and they were willing to provide training on detonating fireworks electronically. But there was not enough time this year before the 4th of July to complete the training. Therefore, all options for the 2021 fireworks display have been exhausted and with great regret, the City of Gordon will not have a fireworks display in 2021. 

City officials will begin work immediately to organize the 2022 fireworks display.

-City of Gordon Press ReleaseDuring last year’s City of Gordon fireworks display, two volunteer fire department members were injured during the detonation. After these injuries, City Manager Spaugh was contacted by Fire Chief Rich Haller who noted that the Gordon Fire Department would no longer be doing the detonation of the fireworks.In March of this year, the Fire Department once again confirmed that they would not be available for the detonation. The City of Gordon fully supports the decision of the fire department and understands the risks which they have taken in the past.The City of Gordon contacted several vendors who are involved in the setup and detonation of fireworks for municipalities, but all companies are booked for this year; some as early as June 28th. City Manager Spaugh also contacted Lew’s Fireworks, a company from whom the city has purchased fireworks in the past, and they were willing to provide training on detonating fireworks electronically. But there was not enough time this year before the 4th of July to complete the training. Therefore, all options for the 2021 fireworks display have been exhausted and with great regret, the City of Gordon will not have a fireworks display in 2021. City officials will begin work immediately to organize the 2022 fireworks display.

City of Gordon firework display cancelled 

On Tuesday, June 8 the Alliance Poverty Task Force will be hosting the national program Bridges Out of Poverty.&nbsp;Bridges Out of Poverty helps a community understand,&nbsp;alleviate, and work with those in&nbsp;poverty.&nbsp;Participants review poverty research, examine a theory of change, and analyze poverty through the prism of the hidden rules of class, resources, family structure, and language.

People from throughout the Panhandle will be hosted at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center. The program is open to anyone, but is especially valuable for service agencies, school personnel, law enforcement, church leaders, businesses, and community leaders.

On Wednesday, June 9, Educational Service Unit #13 (ESU13) will hold a follow-up training for teachers. There is no charge to attend, but one hour of graduate college credit is available from the University of Wyoming for $50 for attending both days of the Bridges training. Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:soar@esu13.org" target="_blank">soar@esu13.org</a>&nbsp;to register; they will want your name, email address, and whether you plan to receive college credit.

Western Nebraska Community College and Panhandle Partnership have partnered with the Alliance Poverty Task Force to fund the speaker. Additional funds have been provided by the Alliance Ministerial Association, United Way of Western Nebraska, CAPstone, and Community Action Partnership of Nebraska. The Medica Foundation has awarded a grant, so future programs in the Bridges series will be available in the Panhandle over the next two years. Bridges Out of Poverty is a prerequisite to attend those.

There is a $35 registration fee, which includes refreshments and lunch, payable when you register. There are scholarships available; email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kayla.gasker@panhandlepartnership.com" target="_blank">kayla.gasker@panhandlepartnership.com</a>&nbsp;to register via scholarship.

If you didn’t grow up in poverty, you may not know that there are hidden rules that are followed by people in each class: poverty, middle class, and wealth. People think and act differently based on the class they were raised in. Schools and businesses use the rules of the middle class. These rules are not often taught and are therefore confusing to people raised in poverty households. &nbsp;

Bridges Out of Poverty offers a new way to view the issue of poverty and how we deal with it. Bridges offers tools and resources that equip businesses and agencies to redesign programs to better serve people you work with,&nbsp;build skills for management to help guide employees,&nbsp;upgrade training for staff, and improve treatment outcomes in health care and behavioral health care.

The ultimate goal is to increase the likelihood of moving from welfare to work, especially for those living in generational poverty, families who have lived in poverty for at least two generations.

If your business, agency, or organization works with people from poverty, you need a deeper understanding of their challenges and strengths to create opportunities for success. Register at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.panhandlepartnership.com/" target="_blank">www.panhandlepartnership.com</a>&nbsp;by scrolling to Training Academy, then click on Bridges Out of Poverty, June 8 @ 9:00 am&nbsp;-&nbsp;3:00 pm&nbsp;MDT. Check-in and networking opportunities begin at 8:00 am, and various agencies will have outreach tables. Get signed up today for this valuable training.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force&nbsp;On Tuesday, June 8 the Alliance Poverty Task Force will be hosting the national program Bridges Out of Poverty.&nbsp;Bridges Out of Poverty helps a community understand,&nbsp;alleviate, and work with those in&nbsp;poverty.&nbsp;Participants review poverty research, examine a theory of change, and analyze poverty through the prism of the hidden rules of class, resources, family structure, and language.People from throughout the Panhandle will be hosted at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center. The program is open to anyone, but is especially valuable for service agencies, school personnel, law enforcement, church leaders, businesses, and community leaders.On Wednesday, June 9, Educational Service Unit #13 (ESU13) will hold a follow-up training for teachers. There is no charge to attend, but one hour of graduate college credit is available from the University of Wyoming for $50 for attending both days of the Bridges training. Email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:soar@esu13.org" target="_blank">soar@esu13.org</a>&nbsp;to register; they will want your name, email address, and whether you plan to receive college credit.Western Nebraska Community College and Panhandle Partnership have partnered with the Alliance Poverty Task Force to fund the speaker. Additional funds have been provided by the Alliance Ministerial Association, United Way of Western Nebraska, CAPstone, and Community Action Partnership of Nebraska. The Medica Foundation has awarded a grant, so future programs in the Bridges series will be available in the Panhandle over the next two years. Bridges Out of Poverty is a prerequisite to attend those.There is a $35 registration fee, which includes refreshments and lunch, payable when you register. There are scholarships available; email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kayla.gasker@panhandlepartnership.com" target="_blank">kayla.gasker@panhandlepartnership.com</a>&nbsp;to register via scholarship.If you didn’t grow up in poverty, you may not know that there are hidden rules that are followed by people in each class: poverty, middle class, and wealth. People think and act differently based on the class they were raised in. Schools and businesses use the rules of the middle class. These rules are not often taught and are therefore confusing to people raised in poverty households. &nbsp;Bridges Out of Poverty offers a new way to view the issue of poverty and how we deal with it. Bridges offers tools and resources that equip businesses and agencies to redesign programs to better serve people you work with,&nbsp;build skills for management to help guide employees,&nbsp;upgrade training for staff, and improve treatment outcomes in health care and behavioral health care.The ultimate goal is to increase the likelihood of moving from welfare to work, especially for those living in generational poverty, families who have lived in poverty for at least two generations.If your business, agency, or organization works with people from poverty, you need a deeper understanding of their challenges and strengths to create opportunities for success. Register at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.panhandlepartnership.com/" target="_blank">www.panhandlepartnership.com</a>&nbsp;by scrolling to Training Academy, then click on Bridges Out of Poverty, June 8 @ 9:00 am&nbsp;-&nbsp;3:00 pm&nbsp;MDT. Check-in and networking opportunities begin at 8:00 am, and various agencies will have outreach tables. Get signed up today for this valuable training.

Poverty In Our Area: 'Bridges Out of Poverty'

LINCOLN – Free Fishing and Park Entry Day in Nebraska is May 22. Enjoy a Saturday of fishing or state park activities during the park system centennial year without the need to purchase a fishing or park entry permit for the day.

Free Fishing and Park Entry Day, held annually in Nebraska on the Saturday preceding Memorial Day weekend, means anyone can explore outdoor opportunities at any Nebraska state park, state recreation area or state historical park. Anglers must observe all fishing regulations. Camping, lodging and all other user fees still apply at state park areas.

In conjunction with the event, Ponca State Park will host the Bill Morris Memorial Fishing Derby and Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area will host the Bob Bruner Memorial Fishing Derby.

Ponca’s derby, which is open to all ages, is from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Participants may fish as long or little as they like and can win prizes. Event rules and an official derby measuring tape should be picked up at the Resource and Education Center, where bait is available for purchase and loaner fishing poles are available upon request.

Fremont Lakes SRA fishing derby, for children, is from 9 a.m. to noon. Local radio stations, volunteers and civic groups will be on hand to provide food, prizes, loaner fishing tackle, bait and instruction.

Those fishing on May 22 also are encouraged to participate in the Take ’em Fishing challenge, in which anglers pledge to take new or inexperienced anglers fishing. Fish permits typically are required for anglers age 16 and older – but not on Free Fishing and Park Entry Day. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MDcuNDAxMTUyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi90YWtlZW1maXNoaW5nLyJ9.2KvXfbH_03lg60FrDNIPr0lWE7W6K6zISGRf30KlhXA/s/497221906/br/106071462397-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/takeemfishing</a>&nbsp;for more information.

For more event information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MDcuNDAxMTUyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NhbGVuZGFyLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.9AArEPuLe-LGhN6MGc3vQxDvvG0mSqbTORKrW1U1stg/s/497221906/br/106071462397-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.

Nebraska boasts 76 state park areas with innumerable opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, including fishing, kayaking, boating, hiking, horseback riding, wildlife watching, and even learning about history at a state historical park. Visit a park on May 22 to make memories with family, try a new challenge and spend time relaxing in the outdoors.

LINCOLN – Free Fishing and Park Entry Day in Nebraska is May 22. Enjoy a Saturday of fishing or state park activities during the park system centennial year without the need to purchase a fishing or park entry permit for the day.Free Fishing and Park Entry Day, held annually in Nebraska on the Saturday preceding Memorial Day weekend, means anyone can explore outdoor opportunities at any Nebraska state park, state recreation area or state historical park. Anglers must observe all fishing regulations. Camping, lodging and all other user fees still apply at state park areas.In conjunction with the event, Ponca State Park will host the Bill Morris Memorial Fishing Derby and Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area will host the Bob Bruner Memorial Fishing Derby.Ponca’s derby, which is open to all ages, is from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Participants may fish as long or little as they like and can win prizes. Event rules and an official derby measuring tape should be picked up at the Resource and Education Center, where bait is available for purchase and loaner fishing poles are available upon request.Fremont Lakes SRA fishing derby, for children, is from 9 a.m. to noon. Local radio stations, volunteers and civic groups will be on hand to provide food, prizes, loaner fishing tackle, bait and instruction.Those fishing on May 22 also are encouraged to participate in the Take ’em Fishing challenge, in which anglers pledge to take new or inexperienced anglers fishing. Fish permits typically are required for anglers age 16 and older – but not on Free Fishing and Park Entry Day. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MDcuNDAxMTUyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi90YWtlZW1maXNoaW5nLyJ9.2KvXfbH_03lg60FrDNIPr0lWE7W6K6zISGRf30KlhXA/s/497221906/br/106071462397-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/takeemfishing</a>&nbsp;for more information.For more event information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MDcuNDAxMTUyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NhbGVuZGFyLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.9AArEPuLe-LGhN6MGc3vQxDvvG0mSqbTORKrW1U1stg/s/497221906/br/106071462397-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.Nebraska boasts 76 state park areas with innumerable opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, including fishing, kayaking, boating, hiking, horseback riding, wildlife watching, and even learning about history at a state historical park. Visit a park on May 22 to make memories with family, try a new challenge and spend time relaxing in the outdoors.

Free fishing and park entry day is May 22

Alliance – The Alliance Senior Center will be reopening with limited hours starting on Tuesday, May 18. 

Hours will include Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 p.m. to close. This will be limited to the activity side of the building at this time.

For more information, please contact Angie Flesner at 308-762-1293.

Alliance – The Alliance Senior Center will be reopening with limited hours starting on Tuesday, May 18. Hours will include Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 p.m. to close. This will be limited to the activity side of the building at this time.For more information, please contact Angie Flesner at 308-762-1293.

Alliance Senior Center reopening with limited hours

Dobby’s Frontier Town has 27 buildings, including two houses in the northeast corner of the village. One of these is a house created from hay bales.

Dobby Lee was a charter member of the Nebraska Baled Hay House Association, and he, his son Dennis, and volunteers built this home according to their plans. Dobby said that bale houses were common throughout the Sandhills, so one should be included in the Frontier Town.

When Nebraska was settled by homesteaders, few areas had the trees required to build houses of wood. Many lived in dugouts, homes dug into the sides of hills, until they could establish a regular house. Sod houses were built throughout the state, where chunks of root-stabilized earth were cut into rectangles and stacked to make walls for a home. But in the Sandhills none of these were options.

Using the resources they had, settlers often baled grasses or reeds from the area’s small lakes and used these bales as building blocks. Limestone and sand were used to stucco the walls, both inside and out. Wood was precious and was saved for the doors and roof. Baled hay houses could be built fairly cheaply and would last for decades if cared for.

Baled hay houses maintain a fairly even temperature year-round due to the thickness of the walls, 18 inches, and the insulating value of the hay. Bales are again being looked at as a low-cost option for home building in certain parts of the country.

The baled hay house is furnished with antiques from the early 1900’s. No electricity or running water yet! You’ll see an icebox, kerosene lanterns, a treadle sewing machine, a bed with ropes to support the mattress, a chair with a chamber pot, and lots of other treasures. There is even an outhouse out back.

Be sure to check out the baled hay house next time you visit Dobby’s Frontier Town, 320 E 25th St (Nance Road) in Alliance.

By Patricia JonesDobby’s Frontier Town has 27 buildings, including two houses in the northeast corner of the village. One of these is a house created from hay bales.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621264746352.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dobby Lee was a charter member of the Nebraska Baled Hay House Association, and he, his son Dennis, and volunteers built this home according to their plans. Dobby said that bale houses were common throughout the Sandhills, so one should be included in the Frontier Town.When Nebraska was settled by homesteaders, few areas had the trees required to build houses of wood. Many lived in dugouts, homes dug into the sides of hills, until they could establish a regular house. Sod houses were built throughout the state, where chunks of root-stabilized earth were cut into rectangles and stacked to make walls for a home. But in the Sandhills none of these were options.Using the resources they had, settlers often baled grasses or reeds from the area’s small lakes and used these bales as building blocks. Limestone and sand were used to stucco the walls, both inside and out. Wood was precious and was saved for the doors and roof. Baled hay houses could be built fairly cheaply and would last for decades if cared for.Baled hay houses maintain a fairly even temperature year-round due to the thickness of the walls, 18 inches, and the insulating value of the hay. Bales are again being looked at as a low-cost option for home building in certain parts of the country.The baled hay house is furnished with antiques from the early 1900’s. No electricity or running water yet! You’ll see an icebox, kerosene lanterns, a treadle sewing machine, a bed with ropes to support the mattress, a chair with a chamber pot, and lots of other treasures. There is even an outhouse out back.Be sure to check out the baled hay house next time you visit Dobby’s Frontier Town, 320 E 25th St (Nance Road) in Alliance.