A tour highlighting the importance of grazing annual forages will be held at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 10, at the intersection of County Road 115 and County Road 8, south of Sidney... 14

Western Nebraska ranchers and land managers face major challenges with invasive grasses invading the rangeland and Pine Ridge. Estimates of over 20 percent, or approximately... 13

If bedtime has drifted an hour or two later over the summer, nothing has gone wrong. Late sunsets, camp schedules, vacations, and relaxed screen rules all nudge a child’s internal ... 20

Request forms for Bridgeport’s Keno funds are available starting August 24, 2026, at the City Office at 809 Main Street or online at http://www.bridgeportne. gov.These request.... 7

AMPRIDE

August

27 Tornado siren test,

10:00; JH/HS Cross country, at Scottsbluff, 3:00 p.m.; JV/V Volleyball, vs. Bayard, 5:00 p.m.a.m.

28 Golf, at Bayard, 9:00 a.m.; Early dismissal, 12:30 p.m.; Football, vs.Wood River, 2:00 p.m.; Table games for everyone, community room, Broadwater city hall, 2:00 p.m.

29 “Winter Counts” presentation, Agate Fossil Beds visitor center, 1:00 p.m.

September

1 Bridgeport Irrigation District meeting, office, 10:00 a.m.;

Northport Irrigation District meeting,

office, 1:00 p.m.; V/ JV/C Volleyball, vs. Gordon-Rushville, 4:00 p.m.; Library board meeting, library, 5:30 p.m.

2 Used oil collection,

west side of 320 8th Street, 8:00-noon;

Table games for everyone, PWCC, 1:00 p.m.; Dry Bean open house, Panhandle RE&E center in Scottsbluff, 5:30-7:30 p.m.; Light it up or keep it dark, hearing by MoCo Tourism board, PWCC, 7:00 p.m.; Annual meeting Bridgeport RFD, election of officers, fire hall on south Main, 7:30 p.m.

3 Golf, at Creek Valley, 9:00 a.m.; Tornado siren test, 10:00 a.m.; Food Pantry, 10:00 noon; V/JV/C Volleyball, at Gering, 4:00

p.m.

4 JH/HS Cross crountry, at Gering, 9:30 a.m.; Table games for everyone, community room, Broadwater city hall, 2:00 p.m.; Football, at Wheatland, 6:00 p.m.

5 Swedberg 65th Anniversary celebration,

PWCC, 2:00-4:00 p.m.

7 LABOR DAY 9 Table games for everyone, PWCC, 1:00 p.m. 10 Tornado siren test,

10:00 a.m.; Food Pantry, 5:30-6:30 p.m.;

PUBLIC HEARING BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM, PWCC, 5:45 p.m.

11 Western Nebraska Trauma Symposium,

Hampton Inn & Suites, Scottsbluff, 7:30/8:00 a.m.; Table games for everyone, community room, Broadwater city hall, 2:00 p.m.

14 The Everly Set in concert, Sidney HS auditorium, 7:00 p.m.

To add your activities/events to this Bulletin Board, please submit them to the News-Blade.

Several subscribers asked us to extend the discounted renewal period until the end of September.You may renew for up to two years at the current rates on the newsblade.com website or over over the phone with a credit card.You are also welcome to renew in person.

We thank you for your patronage and look forward to serving you. If you have questions, please contact me at 308-262-5259 or john@newsblade.net.

The week began with an inspiring day in North Platte, where a new airport terminal and a planned tribute to the North Platte Canteen showed what’s possible when we invest in our communities.

Completed in just two years, the new terminal at North Platte Regional Airport is the product of local, state, and federal collaboration. I was proud to help secure $17 million to fund the project and bring taxpayer dollars back home to Nebraska.

I also visited the future site of the North Platte Canteen public art piece. During World War II, Canteen volunteers served more than 6 million soldiers traveling through on the Union Pacific Railroad. The new installation will recreate a servicemember’s view arriving in North Platte, honoring everyone who took part in that remarkable effort.

In Valentine, I stopped by Heart City Childcare, a facility recently opened thanks to the hard work of the local community. Boosting access to affordable child care has been one of my top priorities, and it’s why I introduced my bipartisan Child Care Modernization Act last year.

In Gordon, I visited the American Legion Veterans Memorial, a powerful tribute to more than 775 men and women from Sheridan County who have served our nation. It was an honor to reflect on this lasting symbol of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.

I made a stop in Rushville at Modisett Ball Park, known as the “Diamond in the Sandhills,” a legendary hub of Nebraska baseball. It was great to see the ballpark restored and once again in use by local teams.

Our ranchers and producers are working through difficult times, so I was grateful for the chance to visit the Crawford Livestock Market and hear directly from them about the challenges facing their operations. I continue to advocate for their needs and elevate their concerns to the administration.

Tragically, this year has brought historic wildfires to Nebraska. So, I toured some of the damage near Fort Robinson State Park. In addition to expediting U.S. Department of Agriculture assistance through my Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act, which became law this year, I am focused on finding more ways we can better support local law enforcement and recovery efforts in the wake of these disasters.

I also attended a ribbon cutting at Western Nebraska- Scottsbluff Regional Airport, celebrating a project that protects and extends the life of the airport’s runway — a key economic driver for the region. I’m proud to have secured $3.5 million in federal funding for this work through my role on the Senate Appropriations Committee and voted for $16 million to support this airport through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

To close out the week, I sat down with Jason Petik, CEO of Sidney Regional Medical Center, and State Sen. Paul Strommen for a productive conversation about how we can work together to ensure quality health care for Nebraskans.

It was a full week, but a rewarding one. I’m looking forward to more stops across the state in the days ahead.

Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.

Property was lost and livestock were hurt. We are grateful for our first responders who helped contain these fires. Their dedication and sacrifice protected communities across the state.

In the aftermath of these fires, I visited local fire stations and toured fire lines. I flew over the damage with Governor Jim Pillen and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. I listened to local communities on how we can rebuild and prepare for future wildfire events.

My commitment to supporting the impacted communities and our first responders continues.

I also visited with the Sandhills Fire Prevention District and CrawfordVolunteer Fire Department. Sandhills first responders saved the town of Ashby in the middle of the night. Crawford firefighters saved Fort Robinson State Park. They also evacuated residents from an assisted living facility.

One of the things I heard was that the best way to contain a fire is to get a headstart. Quick reaction times cut down the rate of fire growth. For fast-moving fires, aerial attacks can slow wildfires and support ground crews. That’s why I introduced the Pilot for Regional Emergency Prepositioning of Aerial Resources and Equipment (PREPARE) Act.

As Governor, I always looked for ways to confront fires sooner. As Senator, I’m doing the same. The backbone of federal firefighting is aerial attack. That’s the tanker planes and backet-carrying helicopters that drop water and fire retardant. These aircraft suppress wildfires quickly, effectively, and over a large area.

The PREPARE Act would strengthen our federal firefighting response efforts at the U.S. Forest Service and Wildland Fire Service. It would establish a pilot program that positions firefighting aircrafts earlier in the year. That way, they are ready to go when fires break out. We can’t wait until local resources are overwhelmed to dispatch aerial support. It also targets fine fuel — the prairie grasses that quickly burn in Nebraska.

I’m also working to support current and future rebuilding efforts. I helped secure a FEMA grant that will cover 75% of the firefighting costs from the South Forks Fire.

This grant makes sure that local communities do not bear the entire cost of the wildfire.

I worked with the Trump Administration to open up grazing access at the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge. Past administrations have not freed up this grazing land.

I also brought Undersecretary of Agriculture Richard Fordyce to Nebraska. He oversees Farm Production and Conservation, which includes wildfire recovery programs.

We heard from Nebraska ranchers impacted by the fires. We listened to them about the challenges for rebuilding. We heard about policies that get in the way. They said they needed flexibility, not onesize- fits-all policies. After these discussions, the Department of Agriculture loosened requirements for replacing fence posts damaged in the fires. I also introduced the Fencing Eligibility for New Conservation Equipment (FENCE) Act. The legislation would allow virtual fencing to be an option under the Emergency Conservation Program.

The FENCE Act builds on the flexibility farmers and ranchers are asking for.

This year is a reminder that efforts to combat devastating wildfires must improve with changing landscapes. I’m grateful for the quick response of our brave law enforcement and local authorities. I will continue to make sure our state has the resources needed to recover and rebuild. I will continue fighting to make sure we’re prepared for the future.

My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us by phone at 202-224-4224 or at https:// www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact.

You’ve barely stepped out of your car at the drug store when a disheveled person, toting a couple of clipboards, confronts you.

“Are you a registered voter in Nebraska?” they ask.

That person, male or female, is a signature gatherer for a Nebraska initiative petition drive.

These people get paid by the signature, so guess what, there’s an incentive to be aggressive.

There is also, it clearly appears, an incentive to affix fake names of voters on said petitions. After all, you get paid by the signature.

That system has now spawned a growing scandal after it was alleged that hundreds of fraudulent signatures were found on petitions seeking changes in City of Lincoln ordinances. It spread to petitions seeking to put former State Sen. Brett Lindstrom on the November ballot for governor as a nonpartisan, and might impact other petition drives, too.

Five people, all from outside Nebraska, now face felony charges for falsely swearing that their signatures were legitimate, and for accepting or offering money for fraudulent signatures.

This wasn’t a mistake or two, according to the allegations. A whopping 65% of the signatures turned in by a group called “Good Government Lincoln” were flagged as potentially fraudulent.

Lindstrom’s petition drive, which employed three of the accused circulators, faced similar problems.

The petition circulators being charged were employed by a company called Axiom Strategies, which includes Jessica Flanagain, a former aide to then Gov. Pete Ricketts who has directed a string of successful Republican campaigns.

She helped Deb Fischer win her job in the U.S. Senate, and worked for Jim Pillen when he defeated Falls City businessman Charles Hebster in the 2022 GOP primary.

Axiom and Flanagain are again working to elect Ricketts, now a U.S. Senator (perhaps you’ve seen the deluge of TV ads), and to re-elect U.S. Rep. Mike Flood. She quit working for Pillen earlier this year.

Flanagain doesn’t win many popularity contests among political types in Lincoln, but she does craft winning GOP campaigns.

She has told the media that “criminal actors” – the circulators – defrauded her firm, and that one of those charged was a manager responsible for assuring that the rules were followed.

These rag-tag petition circulators are hired because they have been effective in gathering signatures in other states. They must also like stalking folks on super-hot sidewalks and parking lots.

I am not against paying people to gather signatures. If it’s legal for corporations and the wealthy to pour millions into campaign advertisements because that’s deemed “freedom of speech,” then it should also be free speech to hire folks to collect signatures on initiative petitions.

But there must be rules. Signatures must be from legitimate, registered voters. And you cannot pay someone, or take money, to sign a petition (just like you can’t pay someone to vote – Elon Musk seemed to discover that in 2026 when he offered $1 million to voters in Wisconsin).

Big money has changed politics in our land, and not for the better.

Campaigns now tend to me more about who has the dirtiest TV ads rather than who has the best ideas and abilities. Who can raise (or has) the most money? It’s not always who is best suited to represent us.

This current scandal raises a lot of questions: – why were so many fraudulent signatures allegedly found now, and not in the past?

– does Axiom and Flanagain, who hired the circulators, face any responsibility?

– and does the failure of Lindstrom’s effort to run as a nonpartisan mean he’s out?

It’s been a crazy political season so far with candidates dropping out and in, with new political parties seeking to field candidates, and lawsuits filed to prevent all this.

One wise political observer says Lindstrom – who used Axiom’s circulators – would take away votes from Pillen if Lindstrom ran under one of the new political parties. That, he figured, would split the statewide vote almost evenly between Pillen, Lindstrom and Democrat Lynne Walz.

Not sure I buy that, but the observer opined that voter turnout would determine the winner.

It’s all pretty crazy. And we haven’t hit Labor Day – the traditional start of the campaign season – yet.

This week, my district travels took me across Central Nebraska, where I met with small business owners, manufacturers, and community leaders, to hear firsthand about the issues impacting them and discuss how we can continue working together to keep Nebraska strong.

I started this week at a small business roundtable with Citizens for Free Enterprise Nebraska. Nebraska’s small businesses are the backbone of our communities, creating jobs, supporting families, and helping our local economies thrive.That is why I worked to craft and pass the Working Families Tax Cuts, which provide important certainty for small businesses competing in today’s economy.

We made the 199A Small Business Deduction permanent, allowing eligible small businesses to deduct 20 percent of qualified income and giving owners more resources to reinvest in their operations, grow their businesses, and create new opportunities for their employees. For small business owners like Amara Block, owner of Frontier Frau in Cozad, these policies are making a real difference, while the law’s notax- on-tips provision is helping her hardworking employees keep more of what they earn.

From there, I visited Blue-Print Engines in Kearney to tour their manufacturing facility. For more than 40 years, BluePrint Engines has been building crate engines for automotive enthusiasts and others around the world. Founder Norris Marshall shared how the immediate expensing provision for new equipment, included in the Working Families Tax Cuts, has helped his company invest in new technology and remain competitive in the global marketplace.

I then traveled to Broken Bow to meet with local business leaders about how we can continue working together to keep rural communities like theirs strong.

These conversations are exactly why I look forward to the August work period every year.Throughout my travels, I am always listening and learning. I take what I hear from Nebraskans back with me to Washington and use those lessons to help shape stronger policies that will enable our families, businesses, and communities to thrive.I am grateful for every conversation, every handshake, and every opportunity to hear directly from the people I have the privilege of representing.

If bedtime has drifted an hour or two later over the summer, nothing has gone wrong. Late sunsets, camp schedules, vacations, and relaxed screen rules all nudge a child’s internal clock later.

Pulling that clock back toward a school-year schedule is real work, and it usually takes a couple of weeks of consistent effort, not one good night. It is also normal to experience some protest, stalling, and a few rough mornings along the way. Sleep problems and irregular bedtimes are extremely common in childhood; roughly 20% to 30% of children are affected by insomnia at some point, so families who struggle with this are in the majority, not the minority.

It is important to be aware of the appropriate amount of sleep for your child’s developing body.The American Academy of Pediatrics endorses these nightly sleep targets:

• Preschool (3–5 years): 10–13 hours, including naps

• School age (6–12 years): 9–12 hours

• Teens (13–18 years): 8–10 hours Sleep is one of the strongest levers parents have over a child’s mood and behavior. Getting the recommended hours is linked to better attention, learning, memory, emotional regulation, and mental health, while too little sleep is associated with depression, obesity, and high blood pressure.

The behavioral effects show up quickly. In studies where children’s sleep was experimentally extended or restricted, kids sleeping close to 10 hours had better emotional stability, less restless and impulsive behavior at school, and a more positive mood than kids sleeping about 8 hours.

Short sleep impairs the brain’s “brakes” (impulse control and flexible thinking), which is why an under-slept child melts down over things they would otherwise shrug off.

If you find yourself just beginning to work on nighttime routine and sleep habits, there is good news. Children whose sleep improves over time show measurable declines in both emotional and behavioral problems.Working on sleep is not just damage control; it is an intervention to support wanted emotional and behavioral outcomes.

What are recommended strategies?

The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages using the 4Bs: Bathe, brush, books, bed. Using a consistent, predictable, calming sequence in the same order each night signals to the brain and the body that sleep is coming.

This works for teens too, in an age-appropriate form.

Keep screens off for at least an hour before bedtime, and keep phones, tablets, and TVs out of the bedroom overnight. It is normal for children and teens to play music at night. Instead of using a tablet or a phone, purchase an alarm clock with digital music ability or a radio. Creating a nighttime playlist that can be played nightly is a predictable and consistent habit that signals to the brain and body it is time for sleep.

Consistency is what makes falling asleep and waking up easier.Try to keep weekend and vacation evenings consistent with weekdays.

Sunlight in the morning helps reset the internal clock.

Open windows, turn on a light, or even get outside if you can.

Monitor caffeine intake.

School-age children should not consume caffeine after noon. Common hidden sources include iced tea, chocolate, soda, and certain flavored waters. In a world where energy drinks and Starbucks are popular, educate your adolescent about how caffeine impacts sleep. Research identifies that adolescents consuming energy drinks are 4.5 times more likely to sleep fewer than 6 hours.

As always, annual wellchild visits with your Primary Care Physician are vital. This is an opportunity to work together on strategies to support healthy sleep habits and to discuss if your child snores regularly or has pauses in breathing, is very sleepy during the day despite adequate time in bed, takes a long time to fall asleep most nights, or wakes repeatedly. These difficult experiences are treatable, and they deserve evaluation rather than more willpower.

The American Academy of Pediatrics healthychildren.org is a great resource for parents.

Under the “Healthy Living” tab, you will find multiple articles and resources on exploring appropriate curfews, bunk bed safety, separation anxiety, and more.

Nikki Eining is a private independent practice licensed social worker who serves as the Statewide Pediatric Mental Health Care Access Program Coordinator for The USD Center for Disabilities and Owner of Grace Grit Growth Counseling LLC in Brookings, SD. Nikki brings a diverse set of experiences and passions spending over 18 years working in the mental health field. Her previous experience has focused on supporting youth and families in office, school, and community settings without outpatient behavioral health services and prevention programming. She has professional experience in clinical mental health, education, research design, non-profit, program development, and trauma-informed care practices.

Follow The Prairie Doc

at www.

prairiedoc.org, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, andTikTok. Prairie Doc Programming includes On Call with the Prairie Doc

, a medical Q&A show (mostThursdays at 7pm on YouTube and streaming on Facebook), 2 podcasts, and a radio program on SDPB, Sundays at 6am and 1pm.

NOTE: space constraints did not permit the listing of resources provided by Ms. Eining. If you are interested to read more, please contact us at the News-Blade M-F from 9am-1pm at 308-262-0675.

Anthony Garola,TCD’s interim executive director, walked the council through what the partnership offers: help writing grants, supporting existing businesses, marketing available commercial properties, tackling workforce housing, and even assisting with youth career programs and upcoming political campaigns such as LB 357. Council members saw it as a smart way to tap outside expertise without hiring a full-time staffer. The deal passed easily on a roll-call vote.

The same practical mood carried into other decisions.

The council approved the sale of city personal property, including three vehicles, a riding mower, pickup b ed toolbox system and a gas powered generator through Kraupie’s Real Estate and Auctioneers Panhandle Farmers and Ranchers Farm Equipment Auction Online September 15.

On the communications front, the city decided it no longer needs a separate contract with former intern Rachel Lang to handle social media.

Lang had done impressive work—page views on the city’s Facebook account jumped more than 500 percent while she was posting—but TCD’s marketing services will now cover that role. Lang has since moved on to a job in insurance, exactly the field she wanted.

Everyday neighborhood concerns also came up. Residents have been complaining about too many free-roaming cats, and council members agreed it may be time to put clear limits in the city ordinance, similar to rules already on the books for chickens.

Staff will research options and bring something back next month. The conversation even touched on stray animals, live traps, and the handful of cats currently licensed in town.

Department heads gave mostly quiet reports. The library is preparing for fall programs, the fire department is updating gear with earlier donations, and the sheriff’s office noted busy ambulance calls plus growing questions about e-bike rules. Looking ahead, residents can take advantage of a free fall dump day on October 10, with alley pickup the day before.

After a short break the council settled in for a budget workshop, reviewing departmental numbers and health insurance renewals.

August 18, 2021—Mr.

George Schlothauer is Bridgeport High School’s new principal. Most recently he’s been the Director of Alternative Education for theVALTS program of ESU 13 in Scottsbluff. Prior to that he was the principal at Lincoln Elementary in Gering for seven years…The National Forest Service recognized the city of Bridgeport as a first-time designatedTree City USA.The BridgeportTree Board presented a flag and a plaque to the mayor and city council…Obituaries: Jacquelyn Laux, 90…

10Years Ago

August 17, 2016—Significant progress is being made in the construction of the new Dollar General store in Bridgeport. It’s expected to be open by the end of the year…A large crowd gathered at the community center for the 90th Greek Festival on Saturday.Three blankets were auctioned off at the event…Obituaries: L. Austin Genoways, 73; Peter Francis Schopen, Sr., 69; Donna Jean (Schluterbusch) Kaiser, 72…

20Years Ago

August 23, 2006—Hardan “Jake” Kraupie won the allaround cowboy title at a high school rodeo in Bassett this past weekend. Kraupie won the saddle bronc riding, finished second in steer wrestling and placed third in team roping with his partner Jennifer Sherman of Brule…New playground equipment was installed in the East City Park recently.The Bridgeport Park Board is responsible for the great addition…Obituaries: Dave Henkel, Jr., 76…

30Years Ago

August 21, 1996—Heavy rain and high winds did damage to trees and property in Bridgeport last week. Many residents had ponds of water and tree branches down on their property…Sixteen ladies competed in the Tuesday Morning Ladies Golf League this past week at Court House and Jail Rock Golf Course.

Honors went to Maxine Roberts, Millie Kreader,Vera Nuss, Sally Peonio, Pearl Jacobsen and Jamie Hadden… Obituaries: Lois Lee Bright, 70; LeRoy Lessman, 83…

40Years Ago

August 21, 1986—Jamie Donaldson received top honors at the Morrill County 4-H Fair last Saturday when her market steer won grand champion in her class and the overall grand championship. She is the daughter of Mr. And Mrs.

Jim Donaldson. She will be showing her steer at both the Wyoming and South Dakota state fairs…The animal catch and penny find were well attended by children of the community at the Morrill County Fair on Thursday…Connie Christensen won the ladies pool league held at Bugles this summer. Finishing second was Jackie Larson, third was Rose Sides, fourth was Cindy Kleich and fifth was Cathy Chaulk. In video game play for the week, Shannon Miller won for the girls in Ms. Pac-Man and Dallas Zimmer won for the boys in 8-ball…Obituaries: Ellen A.

Bachofer, 75…

50Years Ago

August 19, 1976—The Busy Bees 4-H Club of Bridgeport will represent Morrill County at the state 4-H song contest at the state fair. Member of the club include Tammie Lake, Sharon Woznick, Maureen Post, Ruth Smith, Sheri Plummer, Julie Conrad, Devon Schmunk, Patty O’Dea, Kathy Weitzel, Marcia White and KarenWatson…Bridgeport School District 63 retired the final bonds worth $4,000.The elementary school and gymnasium were erected in 1961.

Superintendent Jim Howitt and County Treasurer Irene Foster are pictured on the front page with the final bonds…Season tickets for the coming Bridgeport High School football and volleyball seasons are now on sale. Both tickets may be purchased for $5. Single game admission is $1.50.The 1976 grid season opens Sept. 3 with the Bulldogs traveling to Imperial, a new opponent on the schedule.The first home game will be Sept. 10 with arch-rival Bayard. Bridgeport will travel to Morrill Sept. 7 to open the volleyball campaign.The first home game will be Sept. 9 with Chappell.Wrestling and basketball seasons tickets will go on sale in late November…

60Years Ago

August 18, 1966—Ruth’s Beauty Salon, operated by Ruth Hammon, is re-opening for business. Free coffee and donuts will be served Monday at the establishment located just east of Bridgeport’s Main Street island…4-Hers from Morrill County who will present demonstrations at the state meet in September will be Louise Francone, Jerry Cunningham, DianneWatson, Mary Ann Murrell and Amy Lease… Cal Hedelson of Bridgeport won the championship flight at the golf tournament hosted by Courthouse and Jail Rock Golf Course on Sunday. AlbertVarley won the fourth flight and Joe Johnson won the sixth flight… One of the victims aboard the ill-fated Braniff International Airways jet flight 250 that plunged to earth near Falls City on Saturday only a few minutes before it was scheduled to land at Eppley Airfield in Omaha was Private Ronald L. Deines, 19, of Bayard. According to his family, he had just completed aVietnam-oriented infantry training course and was en route home on leave before departing forVietnam. Deines is a 1965 graduate of Bayard High School…

70Years Ago

August 23, 1956—A last-minute change of program for Labor Day afternoon at the fair brings a new and unusual attraction to the program - a wild animal circus.This is Tex Carson’s All-NewWild Animal Circus, the first show of its type to visit the territory in five years. It replaces an auto thrill show, cancelled because of conflict of bookings…Heap big smoke and little fire was an apt description of what happened at Rainbow LanesWednesday afternoon of last week. Shavings from refinishing of the alleys in some way caught fire causing dense smoke. Prompt action by the fire department prevented any more than smoke damage to the interior… Movies showing this week at the Trail Theatre in Bridgeport are To Hell And Back, The Birds AndThe Bees, and There’s AlwaysTomorrow… Obituaries: Mrs. Ella Burke, 85; Mrs. Harvey L. Scoggin, 96…

80Years Ago

August 15, 1946—Eddie Guzman, 16 of Bridgeport, suffered minor injuries about nine o’clock Monday evening in a collision between cars driven by his brother, Frank, 19, and Gus Fotinos, a Bridgeport farmer. Eddie received cuts about the face and was treated at a doctor’s office.The collision occurred near the DeGraw beet dump six miles northwest of Bridgeport…The baseball game between Bridgeport and Oshkosh scheduled for June 2 and cancelled because of wet grounds will be played here Sunday.This game may have a vital effect on the final standings of the top teams in the North Platte Valley league.The game with Dalton cancelled because of harvest rush on July 21 will be played here the following Sunday…

90Years Ago

August 13, 1936—A serious break in the Bridgeport Irrigation district main canal occurred Wednesday evening about four miles west of town.

The break was thought to have been caused by a gopher hole…The Bridgeport Rifle Club will choose sides and hold a rabbit shoot the next two Sundays.The side bringing in the most ears will be declared the winners.The losing side will be required to stand treat or the winners. Individual prizes for the most successful hunters will be awarded by several local merchants…Manager Mills of the Red and White store announces that the store is being rearranged and will be conducted in the basketeria style where by each customer waits on himself.The method of merchandising will go into effect in the near future…Obituaries: James H. Daggy, 87…

100Years Ago

August 19, 1926—Ten million dollars in cash will be paid out in the North Platte valley this year to the farmers raising sugar beets and the factory workers who will be employed to refine the crop, marking one of the biggest financial returns in the history of the sugar industry in the state. Seventy- three thousand acres have been planted to the beets and the average yield is estimated at 12 1/2 tons an acre…Bridgeport defeated Gering 4-1 in a listless affair at the local baseball diamond. Sherrod pitched his usual game, allowing the visitors just one run in the final inning of play. Bridgeport will go to Morrill on Sunday to take on the big boys of that place…

110Years Ago

August 18, 1916—The Bridgeport baseball club disbanded this week following the auditing of the finances which showed that it would be impossible to continue any longer and yet keep the salaried players with the team.The club has not made as much money as it might due to the fact that it has been almost impossible to get games with the neighboring towns owing to the supremacy which we so quickly established… Clifford Rogers, who injured his knee very badly several weeks ago in a fall into an open grating in front of North’s store, is gradually recovering and will soon be able to walk…

120Years Ago

August 17, 1906—The new town of Irving, on the Union Pacific, will be 10 miles east of Bridgeport and 11 miles west of the county line. All the land on the south side, back to the bluffs, is under the Belmont ditch…The little 3-year-old daughter of Robert Walsh was kicked in the forehead Monday by a horse. Dr. Anderson was called, and found it necessary to take six stitches to close up the wound…

If we are not growing, chances are we are falling behind. Right now in Congress, I am focused on how we can spur competition, strengthen local economies, and ensure that the Good Life continues to grow and thrive for generations to come.

Recently, I joined my Nebraska congressional colleagues at the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce’s 17th Annual Federal Legislative Summit. During our panel discussion we talked about how by working together, we can ensure that communities across our state remain competitive and are positioned to attract the investment, businesses, and jobs of tomorrow.

That work starts with sound economic policy. Last summer, as a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, I played a pivotal role in crafting and passing the Working Families Tax Cuts. This legislation delivered a stronger tax code that allows families to keep more of their hard-earned money, provides businesses with greater certainty, and creates an environment where investment and innovation can flourish.

While we have made significant progress, I know more needs to be done. Companies making decades-long investments in machinery or equipment need to know that Washington will not constantly change the rules underneath them. Nebraska has an opportunity to compete for these investments, and I will continue to work to ensure that we provide the right environment to do so.

I also had the opportunity to attend the ribbon cutting for the Taxiway Delta extension at Western Nebraska Regional Airport in Scottsbluff. At first glance, a taxiway may look like little more than pavement. In reality, it represents something much bigger: an investment in the future of western Nebraska and our entire state.

Strong infrastructure connects communities to opportunity. It makes our airports safer and more efficient, supports businesses and agriculture, strengthens our transportation network, and ensures Nebraska can remain connected to the rest of the country and the world.

Nebraska has everything we need to compete and win—we just have to continue creating the conditions that allow our people and businesses to succeed. From the decisions we make in Washington to the investments we make in communities across our state, our focus must remain on fostering an environment that is ready for the opportunities of tomorrow.

That is how we grow the Good Life—not just for today, but for generations to come. I will continue working in Congress to advance policies that strengthen our economy, attract new investment, and make Nebraska an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.

Luke Bonkiewicz of NACO briefed the board on updated county fact sheets, one-page legislative briefs, and the upcoming long session. He noted ongoing pressure on the inheritance tax (about $100 million statewide for counties) and reviewed LB 663’s new “shot-clock” rules for zoning permits. NACO’s toolkit for solar, wind, and similar projects is available; officials acknowledged Morrill County’s 2000-era plan needs updating.

Assessor John Erickson presented a formal process for disposing of surplus personal property under $3,500.The board approved the policy and form so unused items can be sold or donated before they lose value.

Commissioners adopted Resolution 2026-19 denying levy requests from cemetery and fire districts—a formality that lets those entities act as their own taxing authorities. They also appointed Kathy Brandt and KC Heath to the Visitors Committee to fill two vacancies.

Reports covered a trimmed Region 21 emergency budget, September 23 NACO conference plans in Bridgeport, and steady progress on the fairgrounds building (ahead of schedule, under budget, target completion April 1).The meeting adjourned after brief public comment.

Well, it now appears that we will have a third, substantial candidate on the ballot to become the next governor.

Last week, former State Sen. Brett Lindstrom submitted more than enough signatures to join Gov. Jim Pillen and former State Sen. Lynne Walz in the race for the governor’s mansion.

It’s an odd (and late) time to join the race, and Lindstrom took an unusual path to get into the race.

At this time a year ago, Lindstrom was an announced GOP candidate for the 2nd District congressional seat now held by retiring U.S. Rep. Don Bacon.

But by January, he had dropped out of that race saying he didn’t want to participate in the “divisiveness of modern politics." “I don’t feel like I fit in this political environment,” Lindstrom told the Nebraska Examiner. He assured the reporter that he wasn’t quitting one race to join another, but later changed his registration to nonpartisan, allowing that possibility.

By this summer, the political juices were apparently flowing again, and supporters who had been urging him to run for governor in the first place, got their wish. A race for governor always seemed like the best fit for him, and it doesn’t have the high-stakes political divisiveness we see in federal races in the Trump-era GOP.

As I’ve written before, Lindstrom, a 45-year-old financial advisor, sure looks the part of governor. He’s a trimand- fit former reserve quarterback for the Nebraska Cornhuskers who still looks like he could run an option play.

While Lindstrom didn’t talk a lot on the mike during debates in the Nebraska Legislature, he is a better speechi- fier than our veterinarian/ hog producer Gov. Pillen. (Walz, too, is a better speaker) But Lindstrom faces a steep uphill climb to win the election.

First off, if you want an alternative to Pillen, you now have two legitimate choices, not just one.

Walz, a Democrat and former teacher, has been out campaigning for months now. She has yard signs out, and speaking engagements lined up. And, like Lindstrom, she’s pledging to provide better leadership and an alternative to Pillen’s policies.

So now, the “anti-Pillen vote” is divided among two candidates, instead of one, making it harder for either to win.

Let’s do some quick math here—in Nebraska, there are approximately 620,000 registered Republicans, 328,000 registered Democrats, and 282,000 registered nonpartisans, plus a few random Libertarians and legalize marijuana folks. So for any non-Republican to win, they must convince a bunch of those GOP folks to vote for them, along with some Democrats who like Walz. Tall order.

But, if you believe in polls, Pillen isn’t exactly riding a crest of popularity (or riding a horse, thank goodness).

A poll in February by the consumer website Morning Consult ranked Pillen among the five “least popular” governors in the nation. And Walz did a poll a couple of months later showing that 50% of respondents didn’t approve of his work.

Well, I’m guessing those numbers helped convince Lindstrom that if he ran for governor, he could win.

But the former senator hasn’t exactly been a rock star in calculating his chances of winning.

Four years ago, he ran third in the GOP gubernatorial primary to Pillen and Charles Herbster; in 2012 he challenged then-U.S. Rep. Lee Terry in the primary but finished second; he ran for committee chairmanships during his time in the State Legislature but never won.

So, has his crystal ball on winning campaigns gotten sharper?

It isn’t like you can’t win an election after losing one or two. Pete Ricketts lost his first run for U.S. Senate; Omaha Mayor John Ewing lost a congressional race before winning the top job in the River City.

And Lindstrom did win two state legislative races. He also introduced the bill to remove state income taxes on Social Security checks, a worthy and politically popular change.

But he better have some mighty stout hiking boots and a convincing message, because beating both Pillen and Walz will be an uphill climb.

Five other victims were also shot. Karly Rain’s killer was previously convicted of four different felonies. But he had been released.

In February, Stephanie Minter was fatally stabbed at a bus stop in Fairfax,Virginia.

She was a 41-year-old mother. Her killer illegally lived in the U.S. for over a decade. He had been charged and released over 30 times, including for rape and multiple stabbings.

Last August, Iryna Zarutska was fatally stabbed on a train in Charlotte, North Carolina. She was a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee. Her killer had been arrested and released 14 times in the last 20 years.

These tragic deaths point to a gaping error in our system.

We can do more to stop violent crime. We are letting these repeat violent offenders freely roam our streets. If a repeat violent offender is released into a community, the public deserves to know.

Karly Rain, Stephanie, and Iryna deserved better. That’s why I introduced the Karly Rain Wood Act this week.

This bill targets lawless repeat offenders.

The Bureau of Justice Statistics is responsible for studying criminal behavior. They undertook a landmark study of state crime, looking at outcomes for prisoners released in 2012. Over half of violent offenders released in 2012 were arrested again within three years. About two-thirds of released violent offenders were arrested again within five years. It’s clear that many violent criminals don’t give up crime when they’re released.

Despite the results of this study, repeat violent offenders aren’t monitored. They are allowed to go unchecked, looking for the next crime to commit. The Karly Rain Wood Act would alert people to this threat.

This bill would create a national registry for repeat violent offenders. It’s similar to the national sex offender registry. The database would be publicly searchable and provide community notifications.

Just like with the sex offender registry, Americans would know who is living in their neighborhood. That way, the public can make safer choices about who they interact with.

If a felon is convicted of two or more qualifying offenses, they would be required to register. That includes crimes such as arson, murder, or kidnapping. They would provide their name, address, place of business, license plate, and publicly useful information to local authorities. Local law enforcement would be required to provide criminal histories, registration status, outstanding warrants, and identifying information. This would help monitor repeat violent offenders. Threats could be avoided. And our streets could be safer.

The public deserves to know when repeat violent offenders are released into their community. Employers, families, and acquaintances should know when a worker or neighbor has a history of violent, criminal acts. Keeping this information secret is a grave injustice. We need to do more for victims and their families.

Karly Rain matters. Stephanie matters. Iryna matters.

We owe their memories more. We can’t allow repeat violent offenders to terrorize our communities. A national registry would make our streets safer. It could prevent the next tragic act of violence.

That’s why I’m fighting to make the Karly Rain Wood Act law.

My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us anytime by phone at 202-2244224. You can also view my website at https://www.ricketts.

August 11, 2021—The 95th annual Greek Festival was a hit in Bridgeport this past weekend with over 100 people in attendance for the food booths at the community center. The auction this year was online only with a good turnout.The Athenian dancers were in full dress and even some of the adults joined in…A fatality accident claimed the life of a young Bridgeport man on Saturday night north of town. According to the Morrill County Sheriff’s Office, at approximately 8 p.m. authorities were dispatched to County Road 101 about six miles northeast of Bridgeport to a single-vehicle rollover accident involving two juvenile males. Evan Hill, the driver, was transported to Regional West Medical Center where he was treated and released.

The passenger, Bruno Ramos, was pronounced dead at the scene from his injuries. Ramos was 16 years old…Obituaries: Nancy L. Peters, 67; Bruno Ramos, 16; James E. “Jim” Schneider, 71; Marjorie Ann Coursey Sipp, 92…

10Years Ago

August 10, 2016—Chief Justice Mike Heavican visited the Morrill County Courthouse on Tuesday as he toured various Panhandle communities. Pictured on the front page with Heavican were Justice William Cassel, State Court Administrator Corey Steel, Linda Hayden, Jean Rhodes, Thomas Oliver,Travis Rodak, and Charlie Brown…Dustin Favinger is the new principal of Bridgeport High School.

He, his wife Alisa, and their two kids Carson and Kelsey are happy to be part of the Bulldog family…The Bridgeport football team kicked off fall sports season with a midnight practice early Monday morning. Under the direction of head coach Jerod Dean, the Bulldogs welcome back numerous starters and letter winners from last year’s team that reached the state playoffs… Obituaries: James E. (Jim) Dayley, 81; Althea M. Bizzell, 91…

20Years Ago

August 16, 2006—Hobo Rock was demolished last week to make room for another railroad track. After many letters and people urging them to reconsider, the railroad didn’t recognize it as a historical landmark…The Bridgeport cheerleaders recently attended the National Cheerleaders Association Camp in Kearney.The team competed very well and now has the opportunity to represent the school and community by traveling to Hawaii for the Hula Bowl in January.Team members include Caitlin Draper, Cassie Wegelin, Emily Wickard, Katti Riggs, Chelsae Riggs, and Alexa Lapaseotes… Obituaries: Irene Schuler, 94; Verona M. Romell, 79…

30Years Ago

August 14, 1996—The 4-H and FFA livestock sale was held at the Morrill County Fair on Saturday morning.

The overall proceeds totaled $57,348.14.That was slightly down from the $61,225.05 total from 1995…The Greek Orthodox Church of Bayard will hold its annual fundraising picnic on Sunday at the George Darsaklis farm. Lunch will be served from noon until 2 p.m. with entertainment following…Obituaries: Mark Kevin Schwartz, 41; Joseph (Joe) Raymond Blackstone, 85; Edith Laux, 82; Lloyd D.

Satchell, 94…

40Years Ago

August 14, 1986— Tony Berry, a resident of Broadwater, received a Bronze Star during ceremonies at the Legion hall Monday. Berry was a member of the U.S. Army and took part in World War II in the European-Pacific Theater of Operations…Benny Lujan, 26 of Bayard, died in a car accident 7 1/2 miles northwest of Bridgeport on an oiled county road on Friday.

Lujan lost control when the pickup he was driving struck a spot on the road covered in mud and water that washed onto the surface from hard rains. Morrill County Sheriff Roger Sterkel investigated the accident…Todd Peterson is a new staff member at the Bridgeport State Bank. He is a native of Torrington, Wyo., and graduated from the University of Wyoming in 1978.

He comes to Bridgeport with eight years of experience in agricultural lending, six of those at Sidney and two at Casper, Wyo…Obituaries: Benny Lujan, 26; Virginia Schuetz, 75…

50Years Ago

August 12, 1978—Jimmie J. Jensen, Jr., will be soon working in the law office of Robert J. Bulger. Jensen attended the University of Nebraska for four years. He graduated from the Creighton University School of Law with a Juris Doctorate. Jensen, and his wife Martha, will be moving to Bridgeport…Tom Henson, 24 of Bayard, escaped serious injury Tuesday evening of this week when he fell off the top of Jail Rock. According to the report, Henson was beginning his descent when he slipped and fell over 100 feet hitting the side of the rock several times before landing at the bottom. Dr. Post reported that the extent of injuries was a broken arm, along with bruises and abrasions… The Northport softball team coached by Rich Vergil won a tournament in Alliance recently. The team won five straight games. Members of the team include Vernon Wickard, Don Middleton, Jeff Neely, Cliff Middleton, Ken Schledewitz, Rich Vergil, Ray Vergil, Jerry Lund, Dennis Hadden, Dewey Luckinbill,Tim Lanik, Marce Vasquez, Dave Muzquiz, Joe Vergil, Garland Fitzgarrald, Carl Roach, Don Bartling, and Frankie Vergil…

60Years Ago

August 11, 1968—Bridgeport High School is now minus a principal, it was announced by Superintendent Bernard Scheer, and to date no one has been found to fill this position. Nathan Brundridge, last year’s principal, resigned last week to accept a post with the Rocky Mountain Education Laboratory in Denver. There are also six teaching applications yet to fill in the local school system… Bob Hecht of Broadwater suffered second degree burns about his face and right arm when a gasoline explosion took place on his farm on Friday. Hecht was taken to the Bridgeport hospital. He was released Sunday morning… Town & Country Motors, a Ford dealership located in the former Bridgeport Motors, is the newest business in Bridgeport. Robert L. “Bud” Haverick is the manager…

70Years Ago

August 16, 1958—The first rain of any consequence enjoyed by Bridgeport since July 3 fell Thursday evening and Friday morning of last week. It was accompanied by a heavy display of electricity. Three different showers fell here… An auction of real estate, including a filling station and garage, will be held by Jack Hoke on Aug. 18.The station, known as the G.I. Conoco Service, is located at 11th Avenue East and N Street in Bridgeport. The sale, starting at 2 p.m., will be conducted by Elmer and Maurice Kath of Kimball…Movies playing this week at the Trail Theatre in Bridgeport are Northwest Passage, Song Of The South, The Rains Of Ranchipur, and Never Say Goodbye…Obituaries: Mrs. Jennie Mulligan, 74; Adell A. Cafferty, 84…

80Years Ago

August 8, 1946—Morrill County’s annual fair and rodeo this year guarantees for all three days fun, thrills and education with a complete program of exhibits, rodeo events, evening grandstand circus, carnival rides and dancing.

The rodeo, a war time casualty, will be revived in all the spirit of the Old West with a full program of events. A complete carnival midway has been contracted with all the attractions and rides so dear to the hearts of fair-goers… On the local diamond Sunday Bridgeport came out a winner 17-1 over Lisco in a game featuring 11 errors by the visiting team. Bridgeport garnered 15 hits with Polk leading the way with four…Obituaries: Arthur Edmond Short, 51; Mrs. Ida Mae Kepler, 59…

90Years Ago

August 6, 1936—The Trail Theatre of this city will feature a big parade next Sunday evening. Manager Norris Rock has announced the parade will be a publicity stunt for the Sunday and Monday feature picture showing Joe E. Brown in Earthworm Tractor. In anticipation of this showing, Rock has had a couple of tractors on display in front of the theatre all this week…Dr. C.H. Silvernail was seriously injured Monday morning when he was dragged more than 200 yards by a running horse.

He sustained a compound fracture of the left ankle, a crushed heel bone and numerous bruises and lacerations.

The accident occurred at his farm near here…Obituaries: Leonard Hoppen, 85…

100Years Ago

August 12, 1926—Robert Shanks had his back broken from a fall of about eight feet at the Lyman-Richey gravel works south of the river and near the railroad bridge across the North Platte at this place on Monday. He has been taken to Omaha for treatment at a hospital, but his complete recovery is doubtful… The next election of interest to Bridgeport citizens will be held on Sept. 14, when a decision will be reached as to whether or not we shall issue bonds to the extent of $20,000 to build a city hall.

The proposed building is to include a room in which to house the fire truck and equipment, a city jail, quarters for city officers and as many other rooms for public purpose as can be had for the money…Before a crowd that taxed the capacity of Bayard’s ball grounds, the Bridgeport baseball team won a hardearned victory Sunday by a score of 7-5 in 11 innings.

Sherrod pitched another wonderful game against the Bayard hard sluggers. He had 16 strikeouts…

110Years Ago

August 11, 1916—With a considerably increased acreage of cabbage, cucumbers and other vegetables handled in the pickle factory, the management is now preparing for an exceptionally large business this fall. The factory is now run under the name of Kuehne & Peyton and under the active management of Mr.

Peyton. A large acreage of vegetables has been contracted for and a successful season is assured… The Alliance baseballers will make another attempt on the Bridgeport champions next Sunday with the intention of giving the boys a good drubbing. In the last game with Alliance, the score was very close with Bridgeport winning by just one score.

The game will be called at 3 o’clock. Following the game there will be a horse race…

120Years Ago

August 10, 1906—There was no preaching in this town last Sunday, owing to the fact that Reverend Burke, who has been on the sick list, could not come here as announced in the papers. He is still laid up for repairs…The county surveyor was called to Smith Brothers Ranch, about 15 miles down the river, where they are laying out a town.

They first deeded the Union Pacific 32 acres for station and side track purposes…

One of the longer discussions centered on a new vehicle for Region 21 Emergency Management Director Ron. Neighboring counties had already voted to give up a year of EMPG grant money to help buy a truck. Morrill County had said no to that idea earlier. Ron came in with a different plan: an eight-year lease-purchase on a threequarter- ton Chevy. After trading in the current Suburban for $18,000, the truck would run about $36,800, with yearly payments somewhere near $7,000 split among the five counties. Morrill’s share would land around $2,500 a year—a number the board found far easier to swallow than the $11,000-plus hit from giving up the grant. Commissioners gave a clear thumbs-up to the lease approach and asked Ron to bring final numbers to the next meeting.

County Assessor John Erickson handled Board of Equalization business, getting approval for a late homestead exemption that still met the one-time rule. He also reported that fire and flood-related reductions on roughly 140 parcels trimmed overall county valuations by about 1 percent or less. Morrill was the only county that adjusted fire-damaged land values, not just buildings. Final county- wide numbers are still a few weeks out.

Highway Superintendent Bryan Hoerler updated the board on bridge work, then sat through his annual evaluation. Head custodian Zeth Patterson did the same. Talk turned to the stubborn sprinkler problems caused by tree roots crushing pipes and the weeds and thistles that have been winning the battle in a few spots around the grounds.

The board renewed the IT contract with Brody Bridgeport Retchless of Retchless Technologies without hesitation. Several people around the table noted how lucky the county is to have someone local who answers the phone and can handle both county systems and the state computer quirks that keep showing up.

Jana Leistritz from DHHS asked to keep using her office in the courthouse through the end of November. The state is shutting the site down on August 17 but leaving the computers so she can finish out her time before retiring. Commissioners agreed. The space will come back to the county after that, and a couple of departments already have their eye on it for storage.

On the lighter side, commissioners shared updates from the hospital board (cash on hand looks healthier), veterans programs, and the recent county fair. The fair drew plenty of compliments— goat roping with 80 teams, volleyball under the lights, a band on a flatbed, and a Friday night sale that worked well. The new building came in under budget and ahead of schedule. Talk has already turned to air conditioning, more tables and chairs, and simple rental rules for next year.

The meeting wrapped up just after 9 a.m. with the usual public comment period. No big surprises, just the steady work of keeping a small county running.