The infamous car-art, Carhenge, recently got a fresh new coat of paint as the spring/summer travel season gets underway.

"Carhenge got a fresh coat of paint," according to a post from the Carhenge Facebook page. "And boy-oh-boy does it look fresh."

The new Carhenge paint facelift was done by Gary Caparoon of Reliable Painting.

"I remember repainting them with the Boys Ranch back in high school," a Facebook commenter said on the social media post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"So enjoyed my visit a number of years ago," another Facebook commenter said. "Look forward to when I can come back again."

A Facebook comment by Ben Thompson posted a photo of a die-cast toy car painted with a blue and yellow Carhenge theme.&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;<a href="http://carhenge.com/">carhenge.com</a>, "Just north of Alliance, Nebraska, along Highway 87, stands a replication of Stonehenge, England’s ancient mystical alignment of stones that chart the sun and moon phases. Stonehenge stands alone on a plain in England. Carhenge towers over the plains of Nebraska."&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Carhenge monument itself is a free attraction that is open from Dusk to Dawn.

The City of Alliance Proclaimed June 22, 2022 as Jim Reinders Day.&nbsp;

Reinders was an Alliance native and Carhenge designer and builder. Reinders passed away October 16, 2021 at his home in Houston.  He was 94.  Carhenge, located just North of Alliance off Highway 87 was concieved and built during a Reinders family reunion in June of 1987 on land owned by the family.

Reinders donated the 10-acre site to the Friends of Carhenge. and In 2013 the Friends of Carhenge donated the site to the Citizens of Alliance...the City of then took over the upkeep and maintenance of the site.

  Throughout it's history Carhenge has appeared in film, popular music, television programs and commercials and is listed in many books and other publications as one of the main tourist attractions in the United States. 

Carhenge gained more nationwide fame in 2017 during the Solor Eclispe. An estimated 4,000 people, including Jim Reinders and then Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, viewed the eclipse from the site. More than 100,000 visitors, from all over the World visit Carhenge each year.

Carhenge Highlights over the last year:&nbsp;

Carhenge was recognized by Tripadvisor as a 2022 Travelers’ Choice award winner.

"That '70s Show" stars Ashton Kutcher (Kelso) and his wife Mila Kunis (Jackie) traveled through Alliance to visit Carhenge on July 6, 2022.

Kutcher paused to take a photo with his arm around Mila. The post said, "Found the original vista cruiser."

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684862660689.jpeg" alt="Photos by Kalin Krohe" />
 <figcaption>Photos by Kalin Krohe</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684862689606.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The infamous car-art, Carhenge, recently got a fresh new coat of paint as the spring/summer travel season gets underway."Carhenge got a fresh coat of paint," according to a post from the Carhenge Facebook page. "And boy-oh-boy does it look fresh."The new Carhenge paint facelift was done by Gary Caparoon of Reliable Painting."I remember repainting them with the Boys Ranch back in high school," a Facebook commenter said on the social media post.&nbsp;&nbsp;"So enjoyed my visit a number of years ago," another Facebook commenter said. "Look forward to when I can come back again."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684858987730.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Facebook comment by Ben Thompson posted a photo of a die-cast toy car painted with a blue and yellow Carhenge theme.&nbsp;According to&nbsp;<a href="http://carhenge.com/">carhenge.com</a>, "Just north of Alliance, Nebraska, along Highway 87, stands a replication of Stonehenge, England’s ancient mystical alignment of stones that chart the sun and moon phases. Stonehenge stands alone on a plain in England. Carhenge towers over the plains of Nebraska."&nbsp;&nbsp;The Carhenge monument itself is a free attraction that is open from Dusk to Dawn.The City of Alliance Proclaimed June 22, 2022 as Jim Reinders Day.&nbsp;Reinders was an Alliance native and Carhenge designer and builder. Reinders passed away October 16, 2021 at his home in Houston. He was 94. Carhenge, located just North of Alliance off Highway 87 was concieved and built during a Reinders family reunion in June of 1987 on land owned by the family.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684858236514.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reinders donated the 10-acre site to the Friends of Carhenge. and In 2013 the Friends of Carhenge donated the site to the Citizens of Alliance...the City of then took over the upkeep and maintenance of the site. Throughout it's history Carhenge has appeared in film, popular music, television programs and commercials and is listed in many books and other publications as one of the main tourist attractions in the United States. Carhenge gained more nationwide fame in 2017 during the Solor Eclispe. An estimated 4,000 people, including Jim Reinders and then Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, viewed the eclipse from the site. More than 100,000 visitors, from all over the World visit Carhenge each year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684859303254.jpeg" alt="KCOW Morning Show host chats with Reinders during the Solar Eclipse event at Carhenge.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>KCOW Morning Show host chats with Reinders during the Solar Eclipse event at Carhenge.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684859312410.jpeg" alt="Reinders family during Solar Eclipse event.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Reinders family during Solar Eclipse event.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684859321612.jpeg" alt="Crowds begin to gather before Solar Eclipse at Carhenge.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Crowds begin to gather before Solar Eclipse at Carhenge.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Carhenge Highlights over the last year:&nbsp;Carhenge was recognized by Tripadvisor as a 2022 Travelers’ Choice award winner."That '70s Show" stars Ashton Kutcher (Kelso) and his wife Mila Kunis (Jackie) traveled through Alliance to visit Carhenge on July 6, 2022.Kutcher paused to take a photo with his arm around Mila. The post said, "Found the original vista cruiser."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684862649019.jpeg" alt="A car-map is a piece of Carhenge merch you can purchase in the "Pit Stop Gift Shop" located at Carhenge.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A car-map is a piece of Carhenge merch you can purchase in the "Pit Stop Gift Shop" located at Carhenge.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

Fresh coat of paint latest Carhenge highlight over last year 

LINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Below is Governor&nbsp;Jim&nbsp;Pillen's&nbsp;column. Attached is a copy of his headshot.

The passage of LB574 marked an historic&nbsp;day for the state of Nebraska.&nbsp;This legislation, which had the support of 33 senators, sent a clear message that Nebraskans are united in providing protections for our children, born and unborn, so they may have brighter and promising future.

LB574 contains two important protections for children. The first is that it bans abortions after 12 weeks. It is the first piece of legislation limiting abortion in our state in over a decade. The efforts behind its passage have been the result of half a century of prayer and work by pro-life advocates who have continued to champion support for mothers and the unborn. Nebraska now joins more than a dozen states that have passed restrictions on abortion since the U.S. Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade last June. With my signature, the new restrictions are law. It’s my intent to support a full ban on abortion in Nebraska going forward.

The second part of LB574 deals with the unregulated use of gender-altering procedures, including puberty blockers and surgery, for kids under 19. As adults, we must be willing to intercede and take those steps that best protect our children from potential harm. For example, we don’t let children under 18 get tattoos, and they must be at least 21 to drink alcohol or purchase cigarettes. These laws were passed because we recognized children don’t have the judgement necessary to make certain decisions, without doing irreparable harm. LB&nbsp;574 is about making sure our kids don’t make harmful decisions that could cause them regret for the remainder of their lives.

LB 574 protects kids, and demonstrates that Nebraskans care about the future welfare of our state. Only through the tireless and dedicated work of dozens of senators and conservative leaders was passage of this legislation possible. In particular, I commend the efforts of Senators Kathleen Kauth, Joni Albrecht, and Ben Hansen. They have shown us how much conservative leadership matters and what Nebraska can accomplish when we stick to our principles and do what is right. Together, we can create a culture that embraces life and love.&nbsp;

If you have any questions about our vision for Nebraska, please call my office at 402-471-2244 or email me at&nbsp;jim.pillen@nebraska.gov. Together we can!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Gov. Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Below is Governor&nbsp;Jim&nbsp;Pillen's&nbsp;column. Attached is a copy of his headshot. The passage of LB574 marked an historic&nbsp;day for the state of Nebraska.&nbsp;This legislation, which had the support of 33 senators, sent a clear message that Nebraskans are united in providing protections for our children, born and unborn, so they may have brighter and promising future.LB574 contains two important protections for children. The first is that it bans abortions after 12 weeks. It is the first piece of legislation limiting abortion in our state in over a decade. The efforts behind its passage have been the result of half a century of prayer and work by pro-life advocates who have continued to champion support for mothers and the unborn. Nebraska now joins more than a dozen states that have passed restrictions on abortion since the U.S. Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade last June. With my signature, the new restrictions are law. It’s my intent to support a full ban on abortion in Nebraska going forward.The second part of LB574 deals with the unregulated use of gender-altering procedures, including puberty blockers and surgery, for kids under 19. As adults, we must be willing to intercede and take those steps that best protect our children from potential harm. For example, we don’t let children under 18 get tattoos, and they must be at least 21 to drink alcohol or purchase cigarettes. These laws were passed because we recognized children don’t have the judgement necessary to make certain decisions, without doing irreparable harm. LB&nbsp;574 is about making sure our kids don’t make harmful decisions that could cause them regret for the remainder of their lives.LB 574 protects kids, and demonstrates that Nebraskans care about the future welfare of our state. Only through the tireless and dedicated work of dozens of senators and conservative leaders was passage of this legislation possible. In particular, I commend the efforts of Senators Kathleen Kauth, Joni Albrecht, and Ben Hansen. They have shown us how much conservative leadership matters and what Nebraska can accomplish when we stick to our principles and do what is right. Together, we can create a culture that embraces life and love.&nbsp;If you have any questions about our vision for Nebraska, please call my office at 402-471-2244 or email me at&nbsp;jim.pillen@nebraska.gov. Together we can!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen: LB574 protects life and love

Gering, NE – National Trails Day® is a day of public events aimed at advocacy and trail service. Tens of thousands of hikers, bikers, paddlers, horseback riders, trail clubs, federal and local agencies, land trusts, and businesses come together in partnership to advocate for, maintain, We will celebrate National Trails Day® on June 3, 2023 at Scotts Bluff National Monument with a ranger-guided hike.

 Join Park Ranger Eric Grunwald for a fun hike down the popular Saddle Rock Trail. Along the way Ranger Grunwald will point out geologic features and talk about the history of the trail. Participants of all ages are permitted. However, participants must be prepared to walk 1.6 miles and descend 435 feet on an uneven, paved trail. Sections of the trail have steep drop-offs. Registration is required. To register, please call the monument visitor center at 308-436-9700.

For more information about Scotts Bluff National Monument, please call 308-436-9700, visit

http://www.nps.gov/scbl or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps. 

News ReleaseGering, NE – National Trails Day® is a day of public events aimed at advocacy and trail service. Tens of thousands of hikers, bikers, paddlers, horseback riders, trail clubs, federal and local agencies, land trusts, and businesses come together in partnership to advocate for, maintain, We will celebrate National Trails Day® on June 3, 2023 at Scotts Bluff National Monument with a ranger-guided hike.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587140447752.jpeg" alt="Photo by: Great Plain James, www.greatplainsjames.org" />
 <figcaption>Photo by: Great Plain James, www.greatplainsjames.org</figcaption>
 </figure> Join Park Ranger Eric Grunwald for a fun hike down the popular Saddle Rock Trail. Along the way Ranger Grunwald will point out geologic features and talk about the history of the trail. Participants of all ages are permitted. However, participants must be prepared to walk 1.6 miles and descend 435 feet on an uneven, paved trail. Sections of the trail have steep drop-offs. Registration is required. To register, please call the monument visitor center at 308-436-9700.For more information about Scotts Bluff National Monument, please call 308-436-9700, visithttp://www.nps.gov/scbl or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps.

Scotts Bluff N.M. to host guided hike in celebration of National Trails Day

Alliance, NE – Red Cross swim lessons will continue to be offered until May 24th. Please come to the Knight Museum from 8 am to 5 pm to find out which level your child needs to register for or call 762-2384. May 24th will be the last day we are able to register children.

Season passes for 2023 swimming season are available at the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center from 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m. beginning May 15, 2023. Please bring an individual small photo of each person who will need a pass. If you do not have the necessary photos, staff can take the photo for a $2.00 per photo fee. Prices for season passes are as follows:

For more information, please contact Culture &amp; Leisure Services at (308) 762-2384.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – Red Cross swim lessons will continue to be offered until May 24th. Please come to the Knight Museum from 8 am to 5 pm to find out which level your child needs to register for or call 762-2384. May 24th will be the last day we are able to register children.Season passes for 2023 swimming season are available at the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center from 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m. beginning May 15, 2023. Please bring an individual small photo of each person who will need a pass. If you do not have the necessary photos, staff can take the photo for a $2.00 per photo fee. Prices for season passes are as follows:Household pass - $150.0017 and under - $65.0018 and older - $80.00Lap Swim Only - $50.00For more information, please contact Culture &amp; Leisure Services at (308) 762-2384.

Red Cross swim lessons to continue at Big Blue Bay in Alliance

&nbsp;A house explosion and fire caused major damage to a home in Chadron on Sunday, but resulted in no injuries.

The renters of the home called 911 shortly before noon to report they’d heard a loud bang or an explosion in their basement, then had heavy smoke filling the house. 

All three individuals were able to get out safely.

Chadron Assistant Fire Chief Travis Plooster says he issued an immediate mutual aid request to Crawford for a pumper truck and rescue unit while rolling out four Chadron units for a total of 13 firefighters between the two departments.

Plooster says when the first firefighters arrived, smoke was coming out of the front of the house – some of it light and some dark and heavy.

Crews were able to limit structural damage from the fire to the front interior of the house, but with significant damage expected elsewhere from the smoke.

Plooster says the fire began in the basement and spread to the first floor. An investigator from the Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office is still trying to determine the cause of the blaze.

The home is a total loss. The renters are being assisted by the American Red Cross.

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post&nbsp;A house explosion and fire caused major damage to a home in Chadron on Sunday, but resulted in no injuries.The renters of the home called 911 shortly before noon to report they’d heard a loud bang or an explosion in their basement, then had heavy smoke filling the house. All three individuals were able to get out safely.Chadron Assistant Fire Chief Travis Plooster says he issued an immediate mutual aid request to Crawford for a pumper truck and rescue unit while rolling out four Chadron units for a total of 13 firefighters between the two departments.Plooster says when the first firefighters arrived, smoke was coming out of the front of the house – some of it light and some dark and heavy.Crews were able to limit structural damage from the fire to the front interior of the house, but with significant damage expected elsewhere from the smoke.Plooster says the fire began in the basement and spread to the first floor. An investigator from the Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office is still trying to determine the cause of the blaze.The home is a total loss. The renters are being assisted by the American Red Cross.The fire is under investigation.

Chadron, Crawford Fire Department battle house explosion, fire 

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete&nbsp;Ricketts&nbsp;(R-NE) announced his constituent casework staff will be hosting&nbsp;Mobile&nbsp;Office&nbsp;Hours around the state.

At&nbsp;Mobile&nbsp;Office&nbsp;Hours,&nbsp;Ricketts’ staff will be on-site to assist Nebraskans with their casework needs. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer in a timely manner or feel they have been treated unfairly,&nbsp;Ricketts&nbsp;and his staff may be able to help resolve the issue or help them get in touch with the correct people.

All times below are local.&nbsp;For more information about&nbsp;Ricketts’ constituent services, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/services" target="_blank">https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/services</a>.

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete&nbsp;Ricketts&nbsp;(R-NE) announced his constituent casework staff will be hosting&nbsp;Mobile&nbsp;Office&nbsp;Hours around the state.At&nbsp;Mobile&nbsp;Office&nbsp;Hours,&nbsp;Ricketts’ staff will be on-site to assist Nebraskans with their casework needs. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer in a timely manner or feel they have been treated unfairly,&nbsp;Ricketts&nbsp;and his staff may be able to help resolve the issue or help them get in touch with the correct people.All times below are local.&nbsp;For more information about&nbsp;Ricketts’ constituent services, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/services" target="_blank">https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/services</a>.Monday, May 22ndDawes CountyCrawford City Hall&nbsp;10:30&nbsp;a.m.&nbsp;–&nbsp;12:00 p.m.135 Elm StreetCrawford, NE 69939Sioux CountySioux County Courthouse1:00&nbsp;p.m.&nbsp;– 2:30&nbsp;p.m.325 Main StreetHarrison, NE 69346Tuesday, May 23rdSarpy CountySump Memorial Library1:00&nbsp;p.m.&nbsp;– 2:30&nbsp;p.m.222 N. Jefferson StreetPapillion, NE 68046Thursday, May 25thSherman CountySherman County CourthouseDrivers License Exam Room9:30&nbsp;a.m.&nbsp;– 11:00&nbsp;a.m.630 O StreetLoup City, NE 68853Box Butte CountyHemingford Public Library9:30&nbsp;a.m.&nbsp;– 11:00&nbsp;a.m.812 Box Butte AvenueHemingford, NE 69348Gage County Beatrice LibraryMeeting Room10:30&nbsp;a.m.&nbsp;– 12:00&nbsp;p.m.100 N. 16th&nbsp;StreetBeatrice, NE 68310Sheridan CountySheridan County Courthouse12:00&nbsp;p.m.&nbsp;– 1:30&nbsp;p.m.301 East 2nd&nbsp;StreetRushville, NE 69360York CountyYork County CourthouseCommissioner Room12:30&nbsp;p.m.&nbsp;– 2:00&nbsp;p.m.510 N. Lincoln AvenueYork, NE 68467Saline CountyDvoracek Memorial LibraryStastny Meeting Room1:30&nbsp;p.m.&nbsp;– 2:30&nbsp;p.m.419 W. 3rd&nbsp;StreetWilber, NE 68465Howard CountyHoward County Courthouse1:30&nbsp;p.m.&nbsp;– 3:00&nbsp;p.m.612 Indian StreetSt. Paul, NE 68873Tuesday, May 30thBanner CountyBanner County Courthouse&nbsp;9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.204 State Street&nbsp;Harrisburg, NE 69345Merrick CountyMerrick County Courthouse10:30 a.m. to 12:00&nbsp;p.m.1510 18th&nbsp;StreetCentral City, NE 68826Platte CountyPlatte County CourthouseCommunity Room10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.2610 14th&nbsp;StreetColumbus, NE 68601Kimball CountyKCTS Building10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.233 S Chestnut StreetKimball, NE 69145Cheyenne CountySidney Public Library&nbsp;1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.1112 12th Avenue&nbsp;Sidney, NE 69162Dodge CountyCounty Schneider Building1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.935 S. Schneider StreetFremont, NE 68502Thursday, June 1stWashington County&nbsp;Blair Public Library11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.2233 Civic DriveBlair, NE 68008

Sen. Ricketts Mobile Office to be held in Crawford, Harrison 

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp;– The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) announced the recipients of $22,825,000 in awards through the 2022 round of Nebraska’s Rural Workforce Housing Fund (RWHF).

Authorized by the Rural Workforce Housing Investment Act of 2017, the RWHF helps communities create quality, affordable housing to accommodate growth.

For the 2022 funding cycle, RWHF awards were available to eligible non-profit development organizations who supplied at least a fifty percent match (that is, fifty cents for every one dollar of RWHF funds awarded). In many cases, local financial institutions and employers partnered with the primary applicant in providing the local match. Combined, today’s recipients contributed more than $12.1 million in matching funds.

DED administers the RWHF program on behalf of the State of Nebraska through a competitive application process.&nbsp;The department then partners with recipients to provide input regarding project design, development, and implementation.

“Growing rural Nebraska is a priority for our agency,” said DED Interim Director Joe Fox. “The RWHF supports job creation and helps attract residents to our rural communities through strategic investments in affordable, high-quality housing. We had an outstanding batch of applicants for this cycle of RWHF awards. Congratulations to the awardees!”

Today’s awards were made possible by a general fund allocation authorized by the Nebraska Legislature in 2022.

The award recipients, their project areas, matching dollars, and amount awarded are listed below. For more information about the RWHF, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/programs/housing/rwhf/__;!!PvXuogZ4sRB2p-tU!DAmSKyPB9EJ72fR2nOw3ZnX5A4rZS5uDVV4wVHEDuuwzCi_xEXru7VPHWHM8C0g1D5JByvtqYc-YJ7R9xAMQWc70VKU6kRWlc3RH$" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov/program/workforce-housing-fund</a>. For questions, contact Nick Dropinski, Workforce Housing Specialist, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nick.dropinski@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">nick.dropinski@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-580-0713.&nbsp;

News ReleaseLINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp;– The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) announced the recipients of $22,825,000 in awards through the 2022 round of Nebraska’s Rural Workforce Housing Fund (RWHF).Authorized by the Rural Workforce Housing Investment Act of 2017, the RWHF helps communities create quality, affordable housing to accommodate growth.For the 2022 funding cycle, RWHF awards were available to eligible non-profit development organizations who supplied at least a fifty percent match (that is, fifty cents for every one dollar of RWHF funds awarded). In many cases, local financial institutions and employers partnered with the primary applicant in providing the local match. Combined, today’s recipients contributed more than $12.1 million in matching funds.DED administers the RWHF program on behalf of the State of Nebraska through a competitive application process.&nbsp;The department then partners with recipients to provide input regarding project design, development, and implementation.“Growing rural Nebraska is a priority for our agency,” said DED Interim Director Joe Fox. “The RWHF supports job creation and helps attract residents to our rural communities through strategic investments in affordable, high-quality housing. We had an outstanding batch of applicants for this cycle of RWHF awards. Congratulations to the awardees!”Today’s awards were made possible by a general fund allocation authorized by the Nebraska Legislature in 2022.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684773104819.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The award recipients, their project areas, matching dollars, and amount awarded are listed below. For more information about the RWHF, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://opportunity.nebraska.gov/programs/housing/rwhf/__;!!PvXuogZ4sRB2p-tU!DAmSKyPB9EJ72fR2nOw3ZnX5A4rZS5uDVV4wVHEDuuwzCi_xEXru7VPHWHM8C0g1D5JByvtqYc-YJ7R9xAMQWc70VKU6kRWlc3RH$" target="_blank">opportunity.nebraska.gov/program/workforce-housing-fund</a>. For questions, contact Nick Dropinski, Workforce Housing Specialist, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nick.dropinski@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">nick.dropinski@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-580-0713.&nbsp;

Rural Workforce Housing Fund Recipients in Alliance, Sidney 

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska Legislature on Friday approved a 12-week abortion ban and restrictions on gender-affirming care for people younger than 19 in a move so contentious that lawmakers on both sides have said they may be unable to work together in the future.

Conservative lawmakers called in a visibly ill colleague so they would have enough votes to end a filibuster and pass a bill with both measures. Republican Gov. Jim Pillen, who pushed for the bill, has promised to sign it into law.

The mood in the Nebraska Capitol has been volatile since lawmakers on Tuesday advanced by a single vote the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trans-health-abortion-laws-nebraska-3bd01980e0df33bc89afc3d5b0c11f93">hybrid measure</a>&nbsp;that ties together restrictions that Republicans have pursued across the U.S. One lawmaker, Omaha state Sen. Megan Hunt, disclosed in March that her teenage son is transgender and said Friday that she now plans to leave the state.

North Carolina also passed a 12-week abortion ban this week, among a slew of restrictions enacted in states after the U.S. Supreme Court last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">struck down</a>&nbsp;the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that established a nationwide right to abortion. Fourteen states now have bans throughout pregnancy.

Nebraska, however, had not passed new restrictions while continuing to prohibit abortion starting around 20 weeks of pregnancy. The 12-week ban includes exceptions for rape, incest and to save the life of the mother. Opponents unsuccessfully sought an exception for fatal fetal anomalies and to explicitly protect doctors from criminal charges for performing a contested abortion.

The bill also would prevent transgender people under 19 from receiving any gender-confirming surgery. It would also restrict the use of hormone treatments and puberty blockers in minors, putting the state’s chief medical officer — a political appointee who is an ear, nose and throat doctor — in charge of setting the rules for those therapies. In Nebraska, people younger than 19 are considered minors.

At least 17 states have enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming medical care for minors, and proposals are pending before the governors of Texas and Missouri. Medical groups and advocates say such restrictions are further marginalizing transgender youth and threatening their health.

Nebraska's restrictions on gender-affirming care wouldn't take effect until Oct. 1. The abortion ban will take effect as soon as the governor signs it. Bill opponents promised to sue to stop both measures.

Friday’s debate was briefly halted when protesters in a chamber balcony stood and yelled obscenities at conservative lawmakers while throwing what appeared to be bloody tampons onto the floor. The Nebraska State Patrol cleared both balconies and said at least six people were arrested. As lawmakers began voting, hundreds of protesters packed into the Capitol rotunda shouted, “Shame! Shame! Shame! Shame!” just outside the chamber.

Hundreds of businesses and medical professionals signed letters warning that both the abortion ban and the trans health restrictions would prompt corporations and doctors to leave the state. A letter submitted Friday and signed by more than 1,200 Nebraska medical professionals called the bill “a direct attack on the medical community of our state.”

Sen. Kathleen Kauth, who authored the trans health measure, has repeatedly referred to an increase of children who identify as transgender as “a social contagion." She said the measure is aimed at protecting children from doing something they might later regret.

“It does not mean by any stretch of the imagination that we hate them,” she said. “Quite to the contrary: We love them.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-health-ban-bill-nebraska-60d64c873ef9279b607f5c172b366473">Kauth's measure</a>&nbsp;was the genesis of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/filibuster-transgender-gender-affirming-therapy-bill-nebraska-cavanaugh-b9018fd1bf72112ca984ff58679eda6d">an epic filibuster by Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh,</a>&nbsp;who along with a handful of progressive allies, including Hunt, have slowed the business of passing laws to a crawl by introducing amendment after amendment to every bill that made it to the Senate floor. That sent leadership scrambling to prioritize which bills to push through.

After lawmakers merged the abortion limits with the transgender health bill, state Sen. Julie Slama insinuated that conservatives were supporting the restrictions on gender-affirming care simply to retaliate against Cavanaugh. Slama noted that the restrictions did not initially have the 33 votes needed to survive.

On Friday, Cavanaugh vowed to continue her filibuster until the end of this year's session in early June and even through all of 2024.

“This place is morally bankrupt,” Cavanaugh said. "I’m looking forward to 2025 when I no longer have to serve with many of you.”

Conservatives in the one-house, officially nonpartisan Legislature announced early this month that they would amend the trans health bill to squeeze in the abortion restrictions. That unconventional move came after conservatives&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-heartbeat-bill-nebraska-78b861951e8cc0ca92fa320820e2cbee">failed to advance a bill</a>&nbsp;that would have banned abortion once&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-laws-government-and-politics-health-77c9ba98c4f4ab46fdbd5bcc47b5b938">cardiac activity</a>&nbsp;can be detected — generally around six weeks of pregnancy, before many women know they are pregnant.

Legislative rules state that a bill failing to defeat a filibuster must be tabled for the year. So opponents were surprised by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nebraska-abortion-restrictions-3c0938049b10271452898d9a86fa298c">the plan announced just last week.</a>

Left-leaning lawmakers complained that conservatives essentially created a new bill that received no public hearing. They also say it violates state law that requires amendments be related to the underlying bill.

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684767334690.jpeg" alt="Khalisha Casey of Lincoln protests LB574, which limits gender-affirming care for trans youth, Friday, May 19, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. (Justin Wan/Lincoln Journal Star via AP)" />
 <figcaption>Khalisha Casey of Lincoln protests LB574, which limits gender-affirming care for trans youth, Friday, May 19, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. (Justin Wan/Lincoln Journal Star via AP)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska Legislature on Friday approved a 12-week abortion ban and restrictions on gender-affirming care for people younger than 19 in a move so contentious that lawmakers on both sides have said they may be unable to work together in the future.Conservative lawmakers called in a visibly ill colleague so they would have enough votes to end a filibuster and pass a bill with both measures. Republican Gov. Jim Pillen, who pushed for the bill, has promised to sign it into law.The mood in the Nebraska Capitol has been volatile since lawmakers on Tuesday advanced by a single vote the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trans-health-abortion-laws-nebraska-3bd01980e0df33bc89afc3d5b0c11f93">hybrid measure</a>&nbsp;that ties together restrictions that Republicans have pursued across the U.S. One lawmaker, Omaha state Sen. Megan Hunt, disclosed in March that her teenage son is transgender and said Friday that she now plans to leave the state.North Carolina also passed a 12-week abortion ban this week, among a slew of restrictions enacted in states after the U.S. Supreme Court last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">struck down</a>&nbsp;the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that established a nationwide right to abortion. Fourteen states now have bans throughout pregnancy.Nebraska, however, had not passed new restrictions while continuing to prohibit abortion starting around 20 weeks of pregnancy. The 12-week ban includes exceptions for rape, incest and to save the life of the mother. Opponents unsuccessfully sought an exception for fatal fetal anomalies and to explicitly protect doctors from criminal charges for performing a contested abortion.The bill also would prevent transgender people under 19 from receiving any gender-confirming surgery. It would also restrict the use of hormone treatments and puberty blockers in minors, putting the state’s chief medical officer — a political appointee who is an ear, nose and throat doctor — in charge of setting the rules for those therapies. In Nebraska, people younger than 19 are considered minors.At least 17 states have enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming medical care for minors, and proposals are pending before the governors of Texas and Missouri. Medical groups and advocates say such restrictions are further marginalizing transgender youth and threatening their health.Nebraska's restrictions on gender-affirming care wouldn't take effect until Oct. 1. The abortion ban will take effect as soon as the governor signs it. Bill opponents promised to sue to stop both measures.Friday’s debate was briefly halted when protesters in a chamber balcony stood and yelled obscenities at conservative lawmakers while throwing what appeared to be bloody tampons onto the floor. The Nebraska State Patrol cleared both balconies and said at least six people were arrested. As lawmakers began voting, hundreds of protesters packed into the Capitol rotunda shouted, “Shame! Shame! Shame! Shame!” just outside the chamber.Hundreds of businesses and medical professionals signed letters warning that both the abortion ban and the trans health restrictions would prompt corporations and doctors to leave the state. A letter submitted Friday and signed by more than 1,200 Nebraska medical professionals called the bill “a direct attack on the medical community of our state.”Sen. Kathleen Kauth, who authored the trans health measure, has repeatedly referred to an increase of children who identify as transgender as “a social contagion." She said the measure is aimed at protecting children from doing something they might later regret.“It does not mean by any stretch of the imagination that we hate them,” she said. “Quite to the contrary: We love them.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-health-ban-bill-nebraska-60d64c873ef9279b607f5c172b366473">Kauth's measure</a>&nbsp;was the genesis of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/filibuster-transgender-gender-affirming-therapy-bill-nebraska-cavanaugh-b9018fd1bf72112ca984ff58679eda6d">an epic filibuster by Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh,</a>&nbsp;who along with a handful of progressive allies, including Hunt, have slowed the business of passing laws to a crawl by introducing amendment after amendment to every bill that made it to the Senate floor. That sent leadership scrambling to prioritize which bills to push through.After lawmakers merged the abortion limits with the transgender health bill, state Sen. Julie Slama insinuated that conservatives were supporting the restrictions on gender-affirming care simply to retaliate against Cavanaugh. Slama noted that the restrictions did not initially have the 33 votes needed to survive.On Friday, Cavanaugh vowed to continue her filibuster until the end of this year's session in early June and even through all of 2024.“This place is morally bankrupt,” Cavanaugh said. "I’m looking forward to 2025 when I no longer have to serve with many of you.”Conservatives in the one-house, officially nonpartisan Legislature announced early this month that they would amend the trans health bill to squeeze in the abortion restrictions. That unconventional move came after conservatives&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-heartbeat-bill-nebraska-78b861951e8cc0ca92fa320820e2cbee">failed to advance a bill</a>&nbsp;that would have banned abortion once&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-laws-government-and-politics-health-77c9ba98c4f4ab46fdbd5bcc47b5b938">cardiac activity</a>&nbsp;can be detected — generally around six weeks of pregnancy, before many women know they are pregnant.Legislative rules state that a bill failing to defeat a filibuster must be tabled for the year. So opponents were surprised by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nebraska-abortion-restrictions-3c0938049b10271452898d9a86fa298c">the plan announced just last week.</a>Left-leaning lawmakers complained that conservatives essentially created a new bill that received no public hearing. They also say it violates state law that requires amendments be related to the underlying bill.

Lawmakers pass 12-week abortion ban, restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors

P202300327 01:41 Officers dispatched to a physical altercation outside of 1251 Hammond Ln., Contacted RP and was told her mother had broken the driver's rear passenger window out of her vehicle to get inside of it. Subject was being loud and belligerent Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300328 15:31 SUSP : SUSPICIOUS SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE WAS SEEN BEHIND SUBWAY/ SOLE OCCUPANT WAS ARRESTED AND TRANSPORTED TO BOX BUTTE COUNTY JAIL/ Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300329 02:46 DUI : DUI 500 block of Homestead Ave // Report of an assault // Upon arrival, several minors were located and questioned // Neither side of assault wanted to pursue charges // Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300330 13:28 FOUND : FOUND ABANDONED BIKE RECOVERED AND PLACED IN THE BICYCLE WAREHOUSE Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300335 13:07 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYNon-injury traffic crash on the 1400 block of Grove Ave. Investigation made on scene. Incident resolved. Closed - Resolved

P202300336 22:37 SUSP : SUSPICIOUS officers responded to the 600 block of E 2nd Street in reference to some suspicious activity/ officers made contact with multiple juveniles/ Officers conducted an investigation/ One female juvenile was issued a citation Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300337 00:01 DISTURBANCE : officers responded to the 700 block of Mississippi Avenue in reference to a male individual who stated that another male individual had threatened him with a weapon/ The male individual was able to positively ID the male individual who had threatened him/ Charges recommended Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300340 15:38 WARRANT : ARREST Officers observed an individual walking northbound on Laramie Ave who they believed to have a warrant. Officers made contact with the individual on 7th and laramie. The warrant was confirmed and during a search drugs and drug paraphernalia was located. Citation issued and arrest made. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300341 17:12 BITE : ANIMAL BITE 400 Block of Emerson Avenue/ Three dogs mauling fourth dog/ Officer bit during intervention/ Aggressive dog shot by duty weapon/ Closed and resolved/ Closed - Resolved

P202300343 15:10 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY1100 E. 8th Street/ Motor Vehicle Accident involving parked vehicle/ Accident report taken/ Warnings issued/ Case closed as resolved Closed - Resolved

By Alliance Police Department05/14/23P202300327 01:41 Officers dispatched to a physical altercation outside of 1251 Hammond Ln., Contacted RP and was told her mother had broken the driver's rear passenger window out of her vehicle to get inside of it. Subject was being loud and belligerent Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300328 15:31 SUSP : SUSPICIOUS SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE WAS SEEN BEHIND SUBWAY/ SOLE OCCUPANT WAS ARRESTED AND TRANSPORTED TO BOX BUTTE COUNTY JAIL/ Closed - Charges Recommended05/14/23 Total: 205/15/23P202300329 02:46 DUI : DUI 500 block of Homestead Ave // Report of an assault // Upon arrival, several minors were located and questioned // Neither side of assault wanted to pursue charges // Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300330 13:28 FOUND : FOUND ABANDONED BIKE RECOVERED AND PLACED IN THE BICYCLE WAREHOUSE Inactive - Case Suspended05/15/23 Total: 205/17/23P202300335 13:07 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYNon-injury traffic crash on the 1400 block of Grove Ave. Investigation made on scene. Incident resolved. Closed - ResolvedP202300336 22:37 SUSP : SUSPICIOUS officers responded to the 600 block of E 2nd Street in reference to some suspicious activity/ officers made contact with multiple juveniles/ Officers conducted an investigation/ One female juvenile was issued a citation Closed - Charges Recommended05/17/23 Total: 205/18/23P202300337 00:01 DISTURBANCE : officers responded to the 700 block of Mississippi Avenue in reference to a male individual who stated that another male individual had threatened him with a weapon/ The male individual was able to positively ID the male individual who had threatened him/ Charges recommended Closed - Charges Recommended05/18/23 Total: 105/19/23P202300340 15:38 WARRANT : ARREST Officers observed an individual walking northbound on Laramie Ave who they believed to have a warrant. Officers made contact with the individual on 7th and laramie. The warrant was confirmed and during a search drugs and drug paraphernalia was located. Citation issued and arrest made. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300341 17:12 BITE : ANIMAL BITE 400 Block of Emerson Avenue/ Three dogs mauling fourth dog/ Officer bit during intervention/ Aggressive dog shot by duty weapon/ Closed and resolved/ Closed - Resolved05/19/23 Total: 205/20/23P202300343 15:10 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY1100 E. 8th Street/ Motor Vehicle Accident involving parked vehicle/ Accident report taken/ Warnings issued/ Case closed as resolved Closed - Resolved05/20/23 Total: 1Total Records: 10

Alliance Police Department: The media report 

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful

A dove lit on the powerline, flew away, only to be replaced by another a moment later. Sparrows fluttered down from the roof, slowing to land behind the HVAC equipment. Such was my view looking up to the sky at dusk as I rested in the grass by the Evangelical Free Church during my son’s Cub Scout meeting.

People should aspire to live like birds. For one, they use the building materials at hand when building a spring home. Nests often include bits of trash or material that could have been recycled if it had not ended up as litter. Some species spruce up where they raised fledglings the year before or find a move-in ready site, such as a mature maple tree cavity high above in the trunk.

Our feathered friends travel hundreds, many species thousands, of miles migrating without spewing greenhouse gasses. Nebraska’s famous Sandhill Cranes are a prime example as they take time to fuel up in our fields and wetlands. I have enjoyed the opportunity to see them along the Platte River as well as a few wayward cranes in the Alliance area over the years. Without maps or GPS migratory birds know just where to return. Amazing!

Birds also manage to live together in a given ecosystem or habitat without the same hassles people inevitably find with one another. The big guy with the “bald” head may take the rabbit or fish you just scored. No surprises there. The watertower gang gets the dead stuff, nobody fights them for it. Meadowlards like your pasture and robins like to snack on seeds in your garden (if you don’t shoo them away from the tasty bush beans planted the day before).

I am an amateur bird watcher for sure. What type of sparrow is at the feeder? Even with our field guide I’m not certain. However, overall, birds have always been a favorite to spy around town, on hikes or a jaunt into the Sandhills as the grass-covered dunes’ hue transitions from yellow/brown to shades of green dappled with blue water.

Reading an area newspaper recently, there was an article by Renae Blum with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission titled “Discover great birdwatching at these wetlands”. She expounds on the opportunities for birders at Marsh Wren Saline Wetland, Fontenelle Forest, Ponca State Park, Harvard Waterfowl Production Area, Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, Kiowa Wildlife Management Area, Rowe Audubon Sanctuary and Lake Ogallala – where I pretty much got skunked on a winter afternoon looking for Bald Eagles. To avoid hours of travel and an overnight stay to reach some of the above destinations I recommend Northwest Nebraska and western Sandhills creeks, rivers, lakes, wetlands and anything close where water forms a seasonal home for birds.

According to fws.gov: Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge (between Ellsworth and Broadwater) includes 45,818 acres and contains the largest protected continuous sand dunes in the U.S. Due to our recent wet weather I would suggest a 4x4 for a day trip there. The Valentine NWR is larger while both offer superb Sandhills scenery, yet Crescent Lake is my pick due to its proximity to Alliance. Expect to see a couple dozen or more species of birds as well as other wildlife just on the drive there. It is not uncommon to have the visitor center to yourself on a Saturday in mid-May. The only drawback, for me, has been no camping although there is plenty of time to explore from dawn to dusk.

Between graduations, gardening and everything else filling your schedule take a little time to relax and enjoy nature . . . for the birds.

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance BeautifulA dove lit on the powerline, flew away, only to be replaced by another a moment later. Sparrows fluttered down from the roof, slowing to land behind the HVAC equipment. Such was my view looking up to the sky at dusk as I rested in the grass by the Evangelical Free Church during my son’s Cub Scout meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684711583367.jpeg" alt="Photo by Wren Weare" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Wren Weare</figcaption>
 </figure>People should aspire to live like birds. For one, they use the building materials at hand when building a spring home. Nests often include bits of trash or material that could have been recycled if it had not ended up as litter. Some species spruce up where they raised fledglings the year before or find a move-in ready site, such as a mature maple tree cavity high above in the trunk.Our feathered friends travel hundreds, many species thousands, of miles migrating without spewing greenhouse gasses. Nebraska’s famous Sandhill Cranes are a prime example as they take time to fuel up in our fields and wetlands. I have enjoyed the opportunity to see them along the Platte River as well as a few wayward cranes in the Alliance area over the years. Without maps or GPS migratory birds know just where to return. Amazing!Birds also manage to live together in a given ecosystem or habitat without the same hassles people inevitably find with one another. The big guy with the “bald” head may take the rabbit or fish you just scored. No surprises there. The watertower gang gets the dead stuff, nobody fights them for it. Meadowlards like your pasture and robins like to snack on seeds in your garden (if you don’t shoo them away from the tasty bush beans planted the day before).I am an amateur bird watcher for sure. What type of sparrow is at the feeder? Even with our field guide I’m not certain. However, overall, birds have always been a favorite to spy around town, on hikes or a jaunt into the Sandhills as the grass-covered dunes’ hue transitions from yellow/brown to shades of green dappled with blue water.Reading an area newspaper recently, there was an article by Renae Blum with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission titled “Discover great birdwatching at these wetlands”. She expounds on the opportunities for birders at Marsh Wren Saline Wetland, Fontenelle Forest, Ponca State Park, Harvard Waterfowl Production Area, Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, Kiowa Wildlife Management Area, Rowe Audubon Sanctuary and Lake Ogallala – where I pretty much got skunked on a winter afternoon looking for Bald Eagles. To avoid hours of travel and an overnight stay to reach some of the above destinations I recommend Northwest Nebraska and western Sandhills creeks, rivers, lakes, wetlands and anything close where water forms a seasonal home for birds.According to fws.gov: Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge (between Ellsworth and Broadwater) includes 45,818 acres and contains the largest protected continuous sand dunes in the U.S. Due to our recent wet weather I would suggest a 4x4 for a day trip there. The Valentine NWR is larger while both offer superb Sandhills scenery, yet Crescent Lake is my pick due to its proximity to Alliance. Expect to see a couple dozen or more species of birds as well as other wildlife just on the drive there. It is not uncommon to have the visitor center to yourself on a Saturday in mid-May. The only drawback, for me, has been no camping although there is plenty of time to explore from dawn to dusk.Between graduations, gardening and everything else filling your schedule take a little time to relax and enjoy nature . . . for the birds.

Keep Alliance Beautiful: For the birds

Is there something about your health you’d like to change?

For most Americans, this question usually triggers a wide range of responses. In my practice, most responses usually center on wanting to lose weight, being more consistent with their exercise routine, or finally stopping smoking, drinking or vaping. What do these 3 lifestyle changes have in common? They are really, really hard to do.

Behavioral modification of daily habits and routines is a very difficult process: humans tend to get stuck in our daily ruts and stay in that groove day after day. The mental and physical energy required to change our diet or exercise on a daily basis often feels overwhelming.

So, I’d like to introduce you to a new mindset for you to try if you are one of the millions of Americans looking to change something about their health and lifestyle: No Zero Days.

Now this is not my invention, but rather has made the rounds on the internet for quite some time, originating from a motivational response by a user from the website, Reddit.

1. No Zero Days. No matter what, each day you do something towards getting closer to your goals or dreams. If your goal is to lose 30 lbs by the end of the year, then every single day you must do something to get closer to that goal, no matter how small. Over-ate at every meal? Had too many snacks throughout the day? Skip that late night snack before bed, do a couple of sit ups or pushups before bed, or spend the evening doing some healthy meal or snack prepping for the rest of the week. Even the smallest steps add up on your journey to your goal in the long run.

2. Your new best friends. Think of your past self as your new best friend, because they’ve been doing all these “No Zero Day” things to help you get to your goal each day before today. Your future self is also your best friend, which is why you want to do these small “No Zero Day” steps today: to be kind to your future best friend.

3. Self-forgiveness. Guilt, disappointment, failure and regret can put us in a cycle of negative thoughts which hinder our progress toward our goal. Forgiving ourselves each day allows us to keep working toward our goal without guilt and remorse weighing us down.

4. Exercise and reading every single day help fuel our body and mind, regardless of our end goals. Even one pushup, even one page: No Zero Days.

Remember, every marathon starts with a few small steps forward. Let each small day cascade into large lifestyle changes that get us to the healthy life of your dreams.

Mark D. List, MD is a Family Medicine Doctor and currently practices at Avera Medical Group 69th &amp; Cliff in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Follow The Prairie Doc® at www.prairiedoc.org and on Facebook featuring&nbsp;On Call with the Prairie Doc®, a medical Q&amp;A show providing health information based on science, built on trust, streaming live on Facebook most Thursdays at 7 p.m. central.

By Mark D. List, MDIs there something about your health you’d like to change?For most Americans, this question usually triggers a wide range of responses. In my practice, most responses usually center on wanting to lose weight, being more consistent with their exercise routine, or finally stopping smoking, drinking or vaping. What do these 3 lifestyle changes have in common? They are really, really hard to do.Behavioral modification of daily habits and routines is a very difficult process: humans tend to get stuck in our daily ruts and stay in that groove day after day. The mental and physical energy required to change our diet or exercise on a daily basis often feels overwhelming.So, I’d like to introduce you to a new mindset for you to try if you are one of the millions of Americans looking to change something about their health and lifestyle: No Zero Days.Now this is not my invention, but rather has made the rounds on the internet for quite some time, originating from a motivational response by a user from the website, Reddit.The premise is simple:1. No Zero Days. No matter what, each day you do something towards getting closer to your goals or dreams. If your goal is to lose 30 lbs by the end of the year, then every single day you must do something to get closer to that goal, no matter how small. Over-ate at every meal? Had too many snacks throughout the day? Skip that late night snack before bed, do a couple of sit ups or pushups before bed, or spend the evening doing some healthy meal or snack prepping for the rest of the week. Even the smallest steps add up on your journey to your goal in the long run.2. Your new best friends. Think of your past self as your new best friend, because they’ve been doing all these “No Zero Day” things to help you get to your goal each day before today. Your future self is also your best friend, which is why you want to do these small “No Zero Day” steps today: to be kind to your future best friend.3. Self-forgiveness. Guilt, disappointment, failure and regret can put us in a cycle of negative thoughts which hinder our progress toward our goal. Forgiving ourselves each day allows us to keep working toward our goal without guilt and remorse weighing us down.4. Exercise and reading every single day help fuel our body and mind, regardless of our end goals. Even one pushup, even one page: No Zero Days.Remember, every marathon starts with a few small steps forward. Let each small day cascade into large lifestyle changes that get us to the healthy life of your dreams.No Zero Days.Mark D. List, MD is a Family Medicine Doctor and currently practices at Avera Medical Group 69th &amp; Cliff in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Follow The Prairie Doc® at www.prairiedoc.org and on Facebook featuring&nbsp;On Call with the Prairie Doc®, a medical Q&amp;A show providing health information based on science, built on trust, streaming live on Facebook most Thursdays at 7 p.m. central.

Prairie Doc Perspective: No Zero Days

Celebrate Nebraska Wildflower week with a Wildflower Outing at the Wildcat Hills at 7 p.m. June 9.

Uncover many of the flowers in bloom at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and discover key characteristics for identifying. Bring water and hiking shoes for this mile-long hike over uneven terrain. The hike meets at the Nature Center.

By Nebraska Game and ParksCelebrate Nebraska Wildflower week with a Wildflower Outing at the Wildcat Hills at 7 p.m. June 9.Uncover many of the flowers in bloom at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and discover key characteristics for identifying. Bring water and hiking shoes for this mile-long hike over uneven terrain. The hike meets at the Nature Center.

Wildflower Outing to be held Wildcat Hills in June

Celebrate Wildflower Week with the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum on June 8 at Chadron State Park.

A Wildflower Plant Talk begins at 6:30 p.m. Mountain time at the Central Group Complex Meeting Room, featuring Horticulture Specialist Lucinda Mays and NSA Horticulture Program Coordinator Bob Henrickson.

At 7:30 p.m., there will be a Sunset Wildflower Hike, meeting at the Central Group Complex before traveling to the Pinecone Shelter for the hour hike.

By Nebraska Game and ParksCelebrate Wildflower Week with the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum on June 8 at Chadron State Park.A Wildflower Plant Talk begins at 6:30 p.m. Mountain time at the Central Group Complex Meeting Room, featuring Horticulture Specialist Lucinda Mays and NSA Horticulture Program Coordinator Bob Henrickson.At 7:30 p.m., there will be a Sunset Wildflower Hike, meeting at the Central Group Complex before traveling to the Pinecone Shelter for the hour hike.

Chadron State Park to host 'Celebrate Wildflower Week'

LINCOLN, NEB. — The Nebraska State Patrol arrested multiple people during incidents at the Nebraska State Capitol Building during legislative debate on Friday afternoon.

During the legislative debate, at approximately 2:40 p.m., multiple observers in the opponent balcony began yelling. Two individuals threw objects over the balcony onto the legislative floor. Those individuals, Lucia Salinas, 24, of Omaha, and Maghie Miller-Jenkins, 36, of Lincoln, were arrested for obstructing a government operation and disturbing the peace. Another individual was yelling repeatedly and refused law enforcement orders to leave the balcony. That individual, identified as Mar Lee, 25, of Lincoln, was arrested for disturbing the peace and trespassing.&nbsp;

The legislature’s presiding officer, Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly, order that the balconies be cleared for the remainder of the debate. On the proponent balcony, a woman refused to leave. Troopers gave repeated orders to vacate the balcony, but the woman did not comply. Danna Seevers, 56, of Seward, was arrested for disobeying a lawful order.

At approximately 3:25 p.m., a trooper observed a person intentionally preventing a legislative Sgt. At Arms from opening a door in the rear of the legislative chamber. The trooper told the man to leave the area. The man was non-compliant. The trooper then ordered the man to vacate the capitol. The man again refused to comply. The trooper attempted to place the man under arrest and the subject resisted. Another trooper arrived to assist taking the subject into custody. The man, Benjamin Buras, 40, of Lincoln, was arrested for resisting arrest and trespassing.

As troopers were attempting to take Buras into custody, a woman approached and tried to push past another trooper. The trooper held her back, at which time the woman punched the trooper in the chest. She was immediately taken into custody. Sara Crawford, 33, of Lincoln, was arrested for obstructing a peace officer.

All six were lodged in Lancaster County Jail.

By NSPLINCOLN, NEB. — The Nebraska State Patrol arrested multiple people during incidents at the Nebraska State Capitol Building during legislative debate on Friday afternoon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568218893207.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Great Plain James, www.greatplainsjames.org" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Great Plain James, www.greatplainsjames.org</figcaption>
 </figure>During the legislative debate, at approximately 2:40 p.m., multiple observers in the opponent balcony began yelling. Two individuals threw objects over the balcony onto the legislative floor. Those individuals, Lucia Salinas, 24, of Omaha, and Maghie Miller-Jenkins, 36, of Lincoln, were arrested for obstructing a government operation and disturbing the peace. Another individual was yelling repeatedly and refused law enforcement orders to leave the balcony. That individual, identified as Mar Lee, 25, of Lincoln, was arrested for disturbing the peace and trespassing.&nbsp;The legislature’s presiding officer, Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly, order that the balconies be cleared for the remainder of the debate. On the proponent balcony, a woman refused to leave. Troopers gave repeated orders to vacate the balcony, but the woman did not comply. Danna Seevers, 56, of Seward, was arrested for disobeying a lawful order.At approximately 3:25 p.m., a trooper observed a person intentionally preventing a legislative Sgt. At Arms from opening a door in the rear of the legislative chamber. The trooper told the man to leave the area. The man was non-compliant. The trooper then ordered the man to vacate the capitol. The man again refused to comply. The trooper attempted to place the man under arrest and the subject resisted. Another trooper arrived to assist taking the subject into custody. The man, Benjamin Buras, 40, of Lincoln, was arrested for resisting arrest and trespassing.As troopers were attempting to take Buras into custody, a woman approached and tried to push past another trooper. The trooper held her back, at which time the woman punched the trooper in the chest. She was immediately taken into custody. Sara Crawford, 33, of Lincoln, was arrested for obstructing a peace officer.All six were lodged in Lancaster County Jail.

6 arrested at Nebraska State Capitol

Box Butte General Hospital released the above message as the City of Alliance gets ready for a power outage on May 21.&nbsp;

By BBGH<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684525936639.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Box Butte General Hospital released the above message as the City of Alliance gets ready for a power outage on May 21.&nbsp;

BBGH releases announcement prior to City of Alliance power outage 

From our southern border to our own backyard, law enforcement are essential to our safety and security. These courageous women and men in blue make the Good Life we enjoy in Nebraska&nbsp;possible. They put their lives on the line to enforce our laws and keep our streets safe. As we celebrate National Police Week this week, let us recognize the service of those who chose a job that requires the utmost integrity.&nbsp;

While other states attempt to defund the police, Nebraskans respect and support the women and men in blue. When I was governor, I signed into law several pieces of legislation to make good on our commitment to law enforcement. We offered incentives to increase the ability of local agencies to recruit and retain officers. We spent $47.7 million to expand the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island to ensure that officers receive training that adheres to the highest possible standards. We&nbsp;also&nbsp;invested $16.9 million to upgrade our State Patrol Crime Laboratory to better process evidence to solve crimes.

I am particularly grateful for the work Nebraska law enforcement officers do in keeping deadly drugs like fentanyl off our streets. While the drug situation at our nation’s southern border has gone from crisis to catastrophe, the Nebraska State Patrol has stepped up. In my last year as governor, troopers confiscated two times as much methamphetamine, three times as much fentanyl, and ten times as much cocaine as just two years prior.&nbsp;In 2019, Nebraska law enforcement confiscated 46 pills. In the first six months of 2021, that number had grown to 151,000 pills confiscated.

As Senator, I am fighting to ensure our federal government also backs the blue. Recently, I co-sponsored Senator John Cornyn’s (R-TX) Back the Blue Act to increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves. It also creates new federal crimes for assaulting a federally-funded law enforcement officer and for fleeing justice across state lines to avoid prosecution. Finally, it protects the self-defense and Second Amendment rights of law enforcement officers in more federal facilities. That’s why the bill is supported by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), and the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA). Congress should pass this common-sense legislation without delay.

Another way to support our law enforcement is to oppose laws that restrict their ability to do their jobs with excellence. I recently voted to block two different laws passed by Washington, D.C.’s City Council that would hinder law enforcement’s ability to respond to the violent crime that is out of control in our nation’s capital city. Our Constitution gives Congress oversight authority over Washington, D.C. in recognition of the fact that D.C. belongs to the entire nation. Congress has a responsibility to act when the City Council puts anti-cop, soft-on-crime policies above the safety of the people who live, work, and do business there. I was proud to join a bipartisan group of lawmakers in voting to block these laws and will continue to push back on efforts to undermine the good work police officers do everyday.

As a husband and father, I am grateful to each and every law enforcement officer working to protect Nebraskans and Americans. Their bravery should not go unnoticed. We need to back the blue. When you see a woman or man serving in our law enforcement, please join me in expressing our gratitude for their important work – not just during Police Week, but each and every day.

Along with Senator Fischer and the rest of my colleagues in the Nebraska delegation, my team and I are here to serve you.&nbsp;Contact my team and I anytime&nbsp;by phone at&nbsp;202-224-4224&nbsp;or on my website&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>.&nbsp;I am honored to serve our great state and will continue&nbsp;to&nbsp;work to protect the Good Life from Washington overreach.

By Office of Sen. Pete RickettsFrom our southern border to our own backyard, law enforcement are essential to our safety and security. These courageous women and men in blue make the Good Life we enjoy in Nebraska&nbsp;possible. They put their lives on the line to enforce our laws and keep our streets safe. As we celebrate National Police Week this week, let us recognize the service of those who chose a job that requires the utmost integrity.&nbsp;While other states attempt to defund the police, Nebraskans respect and support the women and men in blue. When I was governor, I signed into law several pieces of legislation to make good on our commitment to law enforcement. We offered incentives to increase the ability of local agencies to recruit and retain officers. We spent $47.7 million to expand the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island to ensure that officers receive training that adheres to the highest possible standards. We&nbsp;also&nbsp;invested $16.9 million to upgrade our State Patrol Crime Laboratory to better process evidence to solve crimes.I am particularly grateful for the work Nebraska law enforcement officers do in keeping deadly drugs like fentanyl off our streets. While the drug situation at our nation’s southern border has gone from crisis to catastrophe, the Nebraska State Patrol has stepped up. In my last year as governor, troopers confiscated two times as much methamphetamine, three times as much fentanyl, and ten times as much cocaine as just two years prior.&nbsp;In 2019, Nebraska law enforcement confiscated 46 pills. In the first six months of 2021, that number had grown to 151,000 pills confiscated.As Senator, I am fighting to ensure our federal government also backs the blue. Recently, I co-sponsored Senator John Cornyn’s (R-TX) Back the Blue Act to increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves. It also creates new federal crimes for assaulting a federally-funded law enforcement officer and for fleeing justice across state lines to avoid prosecution. Finally, it protects the self-defense and Second Amendment rights of law enforcement officers in more federal facilities. That’s why the bill is supported by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), and the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA). Congress should pass this common-sense legislation without delay.Another way to support our law enforcement is to oppose laws that restrict their ability to do their jobs with excellence. I recently voted to block two different laws passed by Washington, D.C.’s City Council that would hinder law enforcement’s ability to respond to the violent crime that is out of control in our nation’s capital city. Our Constitution gives Congress oversight authority over Washington, D.C. in recognition of the fact that D.C. belongs to the entire nation. Congress has a responsibility to act when the City Council puts anti-cop, soft-on-crime policies above the safety of the people who live, work, and do business there. I was proud to join a bipartisan group of lawmakers in voting to block these laws and will continue to push back on efforts to undermine the good work police officers do everyday.As a husband and father, I am grateful to each and every law enforcement officer working to protect Nebraskans and Americans. Their bravery should not go unnoticed. We need to back the blue. When you see a woman or man serving in our law enforcement, please join me in expressing our gratitude for their important work – not just during Police Week, but each and every day.Along with Senator Fischer and the rest of my colleagues in the Nebraska delegation, my team and I are here to serve you.&nbsp;Contact my team and I anytime&nbsp;by phone at&nbsp;202-224-4224&nbsp;or on my website&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>.&nbsp;I am honored to serve our great state and will continue&nbsp;to&nbsp;work to protect the Good Life from Washington overreach.

Sen. Ricketts: Backing the blue   

Alliance – The City of Alliance Landfill will close today, May 19th at 12:00pm for computer system maintenance impacting the scale. The Landfill estimates this maintenance to take approximately three hours. Once the maintenance is finalized the Landfill will re-open for regular business.

For more information, contact the Landfill at 308-762-2705.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The City of Alliance Landfill will close today, May 19th at 12:00pm for computer system maintenance impacting the scale. The Landfill estimates this maintenance to take approximately three hours. Once the maintenance is finalized the Landfill will re-open for regular business.For more information, contact the Landfill at 308-762-2705.

Alliance landfill closed for maintenance 

United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Gabriela Navarrete, 44, of Minden, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Lincoln, Nebraska, by Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for misuse of a social security number. Navarrete was sentenced to time served and will serve 3 years on supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

On November 16, 2017, Gabriela Navarrete filled out and signed a Form I-9 in order to begin employment at Casey’s General Store in Nebraska. On the Form I-9, she filled in the blanks for “U.S. Social Security Number” with a social security number that did not belong to her. As verification of the information provided on the Form I-9, Navarrete provided a Social Security Card bearing her name and the specific social security number (SSN).

Navarrete knew that SSN had not been assigned to her by the Commissioner of Social Security. She provided that SSN with the intention to deceive Casey’s General Store into believing that number was assigned to her. Navarrete made that false representation to satisfy Section 274A(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.

By United State Attorney&nbsp;United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Gabriela Navarrete, 44, of Minden, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Lincoln, Nebraska, by Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for misuse of a social security number. Navarrete was sentenced to time served and will serve 3 years on supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.On November 16, 2017, Gabriela Navarrete filled out and signed a Form I-9 in order to begin employment at Casey’s General Store in Nebraska. On the Form I-9, she filled in the blanks for “U.S. Social Security Number” with a social security number that did not belong to her. As verification of the information provided on the Form I-9, Navarrete provided a Social Security Card bearing her name and the specific social security number (SSN).Navarrete knew that SSN had not been assigned to her by the Commissioner of Social Security. She provided that SSN with the intention to deceive Casey’s General Store into believing that number was assigned to her. Navarrete made that false representation to satisfy Section 274A(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.

Minden woman convicted for misuse of a Social Security Number

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in June. Here are some opportunities:

Nebraska Nature Nerd Trivia Night is June 13 in Omaha

Grab your fellow nature nerds and join the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission as it hosts Nebraska Nature Nerd Trivia Night at 7 p.m. June 13 at the Bull Moose in Omaha.

Nature is cool, so there is no shortage of topics questions could cover. Get your teams of no more than five players and be ready to compete for prizes. Registration is not required.

These events are for adults only and are free to attend with a purchase from the Bull Moose, 3548 Center St.

For more information and or questions, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov</a>.

‘Science of’ virtual webinar series returns in June

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s popular “Science of” virtual webinar series returns in June.

Every Thursday at 3 p.m. Central time, Game and Parks educators will discuss some of the science behind common things regarding nature and animals. The topic on June 15 will be prehistoric creatures.

The hourlong webinars are free, but separate registration is required for each. See the calendar event entries at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNTE3Ljc2ODg0MTIxIn0.gbHIWQyB_GtjgsN_nr27aY8SCiQioi2zZpkjsL07V3s/s/497221906/br/197290861537-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for registration links.

The webinar schedule of topics: June 15 – Prehistoric creatures; June 22 – Pollinators; June 29 – Aquatic plants.

The webinars will be recorded and posted to the Nebraska Game and Parks YouTube Education Channel.

Contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information. Check out the events on Game and Parks’ Facebook page and the Nebraska Project WILD Facebook page.

Little Saplings program presents&nbsp;Dandelions

Adults looking to explore the outdoors with their young children are invited to Little Saplings, a monthly early childhood nature discovery program at Schramm Education Center near Gretna.

The 2023 series continues June 7 with the theme Dandelions at 9 a.m. It is designed for children ages 2-5 and their adult caregiver. The cost is $4 per child and $5 per adult per program and includes admission to the Education Center after the program.

See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9jYWxlbmRhci5vdXRkb29ybmVicmFza2EuZ292IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDUxNy43Njg4NDEyMSJ9.DhfS1tt0Jj2NgClPOF31OVnnp5AGQxYK8MPv_bS_tSs/s/497221906/br/197290861537-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Homeschool Hike set for June 21-22 at Schramm Park SRA UPDATED

Homeschool families are invited to join an outdoor educator on a guided hike to learn about pollinators at Schramm Park State Recreation Area near Gretna during the Homeschool Hikes program at 9 a.m. June 21 and 2 p.m. June 22.

Homeschool Hikes is a monthly nature exploration program hosted by the Schramm Education Center geared toward homeschool families.

Participants are encouraged to RSVP in advance through the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNTE3Ljc2ODg0MTIxIn0.inFuXafiEJ-6Rw_Klo6sABaMXxskiHMdoxE-EIxRpVs/s/497221906/br/197290861537-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>. Cost is $4 per child and $5 per adult per program. This includes admission to the Schramm Education Center after the program. Schramm Family Pass members participate free.

This program is recommended for ages 5 and up. Participants should dress in season-appropriate layers and wear closed-toed shoes that can get dirty. Hats and water bottles are recommended.

Chadron State Park hosting Celebrate Wildflower Week

Wildflower Outing at Wildcat Hills on June 9

Pollinator Party hosted by Schramm Education Center

To celebrate Nebraska Pollinator Week, the Schramm Education Center will host a Pollinator Party on June 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

See live honeybees, bumblebees, and other live insects at this family event. Help survey the Schramm prairie for insects and plants in a prairie bioblitz. There will be crafts, games, a plant sale, food and much more.

Participation in the event is free, but regular admission costs will apply for any visitors wishing to explore the Education Center. A state park vehicle permit is not required in the Schramm Education Center parking lot.

See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9jYWxlbmRhci5vdXRkb29ybmVicmFza2EuZ292IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDUxNy43Njg4NDEyMSJ9.p96f8Ayy2Q0NF-QV09Fh3MUJLinxggb1G4rQdAZtZ98/s/497221906/br/197290861537-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information. Direct questions to Outdoor Education Specialist Jen Ruyle at 402-332-5022 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Jennifer.ruyle@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">Jennifer.ruyle@nebraska.gov</a>.

Enjoy learning from Nebraska biologists while finding and identifying as many species of plants and animals as possible at the Ash Hollow State Historical Park Bioblitz on June 17.

All necessary materials will be provided for the sessions, which run from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dress for the weather. Lunch and dinner will not be provided.

See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9jYWxlbmRhci5vdXRkb29ybmVicmFza2EuZ292IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDUxNy43Njg4NDEyMSJ9.stEejanZ6ou9TMQWqirsUR4aEdY8SdRdvehwc8YVnxg/s/497221906/br/197290861537-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for a schedule. For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:meghan.manary@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">meghan.manary@nebraska.gov</a>.

The Nebraska Star Party group will sponsor a Star Gazing Party for the public at dusk June 23 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.

Powerful telescopes will be set up near the park’s golf shack for a glimpse of the night sky. Bring camp chairs or blankets. This event is free and viewing equipment will be provided. Rain dates are the next day or following Saturday.

Pre-party naturalist programs, with astronomy-related activities, will be held at the picnic area in front of Owen Marina from 3-4:30 p.m.

Two Rivers State Recreation Area will host nature programs 10 a.m.-noon and 12:30-2 p.m. June 17.

Join naturalists at the picnic shelter just north of lakeside campground. Discover tracks, pelts, skulls and more things to explore. Meet a live animal and learn about some of favorite Nebraska species that can be found at the SRA.

Prepare to get dirty for Mud Pie Mornings at Schramm Park State Recreation Area on June 2 and 29.

Meet at 9 a.m. by the Schramm Education Center side entrance, then go on an ingredient-seeking hike.&nbsp; Next, naturalists and participants will squish through a mud-pie recipe, all while learning about soil composition.

Summer programs scheduled at Venture Parks

Venture Park programs for the public are scheduled at Schramm Park State Recreation Area, Platte River SP, Eugene T. Mahoney SP and Louisville SRA from June 1-Aug. 15.

Topics include reptiles, wildflowers, mammals, birding and more. Youth must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information, contact Kelly Ekue at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kelly.ekue@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">kelly.ekue@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-332-5022.

By Nebraska Game and ParksNebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in June. Here are some opportunities:Nebraska Nature Nerd Trivia Night is June 13 in OmahaGrab your fellow nature nerds and join the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission as it hosts Nebraska Nature Nerd Trivia Night at 7 p.m. June 13 at the Bull Moose in Omaha.Nature is cool, so there is no shortage of topics questions could cover. Get your teams of no more than five players and be ready to compete for prizes. Registration is not required.These events are for adults only and are free to attend with a purchase from the Bull Moose, 3548 Center St.For more information and or questions, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov</a>.‘Science of’ virtual webinar series returns in JuneThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s popular “Science of” virtual webinar series returns in June.Every Thursday at 3 p.m. Central time, Game and Parks educators will discuss some of the science behind common things regarding nature and animals. The topic on June 15 will be prehistoric creatures.The hourlong webinars are free, but separate registration is required for each. See the calendar event entries at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNTE3Ljc2ODg0MTIxIn0.gbHIWQyB_GtjgsN_nr27aY8SCiQioi2zZpkjsL07V3s/s/497221906/br/197290861537-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for registration links.The webinar schedule of topics: June 15 – Prehistoric creatures; June 22 – Pollinators; June 29 – Aquatic plants.The webinars will be recorded and posted to the Nebraska Game and Parks YouTube Education Channel.Contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">monica.macoubrie@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information. Check out the events on Game and Parks’ Facebook page and the Nebraska Project WILD Facebook page.Little Saplings program presents&nbsp;DandelionsAdults looking to explore the outdoors with their young children are invited to Little Saplings, a monthly early childhood nature discovery program at Schramm Education Center near Gretna.The 2023 series continues June 7 with the theme Dandelions at 9 a.m. It is designed for children ages 2-5 and their adult caregiver. The cost is $4 per child and $5 per adult per program and includes admission to the Education Center after the program.See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9jYWxlbmRhci5vdXRkb29ybmVicmFza2EuZ292IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDUxNy43Njg4NDEyMSJ9.DhfS1tt0Jj2NgClPOF31OVnnp5AGQxYK8MPv_bS_tSs/s/497221906/br/197290861537-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.Homeschool Hike set for June 21-22 at Schramm Park SRA UPDATEDHomeschool families are invited to join an outdoor educator on a guided hike to learn about pollinators at Schramm Park State Recreation Area near Gretna during the Homeschool Hikes program at 9 a.m. June 21 and 2 p.m. June 22.Homeschool Hikes is a monthly nature exploration program hosted by the Schramm Education Center geared toward homeschool families.Participants are encouraged to RSVP in advance through the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNTE3Ljc2ODg0MTIxIn0.inFuXafiEJ-6Rw_Klo6sABaMXxskiHMdoxE-EIxRpVs/s/497221906/br/197290861537-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>. Cost is $4 per child and $5 per adult per program. This includes admission to the Schramm Education Center after the program. Schramm Family Pass members participate free.This program is recommended for ages 5 and up. Participants should dress in season-appropriate layers and wear closed-toed shoes that can get dirty. Hats and water bottles are recommended.Chadron State Park hosting Celebrate Wildflower WeekCelebrate Wildflower Week with the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum on June 8 at Chadron State Park.A Wildflower Plant Talk begins at 6:30 p.m. Mountain time at the Central Group Complex Meeting Room, featuring Horticulture Specialist Lucinda Mays and NSA Horticulture Program Coordinator Bob Henrickson.At 7:30 p.m., there will be a Sunset Wildflower Hike, meeting at the Central Group Complex before traveling to the Pinecone Shelter for the hour hike.Wildflower Outing at Wildcat Hills on June 9Celebrate Nebraska Wildflower week with a Wildflower Outing at the Wildcat Hills at 7 p.m. June 9.Uncover many of the flowers in bloom at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and discover key characteristics for identifying. Bring water and hiking shoes for this mile-long hike over uneven terrain. The hike meets at the Nature Center.Pollinator Party hosted by Schramm Education CenterTo celebrate Nebraska Pollinator Week, the Schramm Education Center will host a Pollinator Party on June 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.See live honeybees, bumblebees, and other live insects at this family event. Help survey the Schramm prairie for insects and plants in a prairie bioblitz. There will be crafts, games, a plant sale, food and much more.Participation in the event is free, but regular admission costs will apply for any visitors wishing to explore the Education Center. A state park vehicle permit is not required in the Schramm Education Center parking lot.See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9jYWxlbmRhci5vdXRkb29ybmVicmFza2EuZ292IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDUxNy43Njg4NDEyMSJ9.p96f8Ayy2Q0NF-QV09Fh3MUJLinxggb1G4rQdAZtZ98/s/497221906/br/197290861537-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information. Direct questions to Outdoor Education Specialist Jen Ruyle at 402-332-5022 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Jennifer.ruyle@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">Jennifer.ruyle@nebraska.gov</a>.Ash Hollow SHP Bioblitz set for June 17Enjoy learning from Nebraska biologists while finding and identifying as many species of plants and animals as possible at the Ash Hollow State Historical Park Bioblitz on June 17.All necessary materials will be provided for the sessions, which run from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dress for the weather. Lunch and dinner will not be provided.See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9jYWxlbmRhci5vdXRkb29ybmVicmFza2EuZ292IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDUxNy43Njg4NDEyMSJ9.stEejanZ6ou9TMQWqirsUR4aEdY8SdRdvehwc8YVnxg/s/497221906/br/197290861537-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for a schedule. For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:meghan.manary@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">meghan.manary@nebraska.gov</a>.Mahoney SP to host star gazing June 23The Nebraska Star Party group will sponsor a Star Gazing Party for the public at dusk June 23 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.Powerful telescopes will be set up near the park’s golf shack for a glimpse of the night sky. Bring camp chairs or blankets. This event is free and viewing equipment will be provided. Rain dates are the next day or following Saturday.Pre-party naturalist programs, with astronomy-related activities, will be held at the picnic area in front of Owen Marina from 3-4:30 p.m.Two Rivers SRA nature programs June 17Two Rivers State Recreation Area will host nature programs 10 a.m.-noon and 12:30-2 p.m. June 17.Join naturalists at the picnic shelter just north of lakeside campground. Discover tracks, pelts, skulls and more things to explore. Meet a live animal and learn about some of favorite Nebraska species that can be found at the SRA.Mud Pie Mornings set for SchrammPrepare to get dirty for Mud Pie Mornings at Schramm Park State Recreation Area on June 2 and 29.Meet at 9 a.m. by the Schramm Education Center side entrance, then go on an ingredient-seeking hike.&nbsp; Next, naturalists and participants will squish through a mud-pie recipe, all while learning about soil composition.Summer programs scheduled at Venture ParksVenture Park programs for the public are scheduled at Schramm Park State Recreation Area, Platte River SP, Eugene T. Mahoney SP and Louisville SRA from June 1-Aug. 15.Topics include reptiles, wildflowers, mammals, birding and more. Youth must be accompanied by an adult.For more information, contact Kelly Ekue at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kelly.ekue@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">kelly.ekue@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-332-5022.Schramm Park SRA to host Nature JournalingLearn nature journaling at 9 a.m. June 17 at Schramm Park State Recreation Area.Join Nebraska Master Naturalist, writer and educator Jeff Lacey on a hike designed to help naturalists of all ages and ability levels write and sketch in or about the forest in a nature journal.Meet at the park shelter with a green roof by the first pond as you enter the park. Resources will be provided.

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