Star-Herald Discover Us 2011

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Landmark Country

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DISCOVER US 3 BANNER COUNTY BANNER COUNTY MUSEUM HARRISBURG — The Banner County Museum, located at 200 N. Pennsylvania, is a 12-building complex that stores hundreds of articles of times gone by. The museum complex includes a machine shed that houses hundreds of old tools, an immense 65 horse power Case steam engine and a vast collection of farm machinery and implements.

A sod house replica constructed in 1985 out of Banner County sod, a genuine 1888 log house from William C. Spahr’s homestead, an original 1880 pioneer church, a log schoolhouse from 1880 that was used as a chicken coop before being donated to the museum, a 1930s service station, a 1910 barn, a replica of an early drug store and a late 1800s bank in its original location, are all structures located on the museum grounds. Artifacts from the early 1900s are on display at the museum’s general store, which is located in a rock building. All of the structures on the museum grounds are originally from Banner County.

Copies of all the original Banner County newspapers are also housed in the museum on microfilm. Many people use the newspapers to do genealogy research.

The annual Historical Day/Museum Open House is the second Saturday of each year at the museum grounds.

The museum is open every Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day, or year-round by appointment. Admission is free.

Information: 308-436-7228, bannercountyhistoricalsociety@yahoo.com or visit our website at www.bannercountyhistoricalsociety.com.

bluegill, channel catfish, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass and crappie in the waters of the reservoir. A fish cleaning station is also available for the successful fisherman.

In the summertime, sailboats, powerboats and personal watercraft cruise the waters of Box Butte Reser voir, launching from an upgraded ramp. The lake’s broad expanse allows room for all who enjoy water sports. A children’s swimming area is marked and protected by buoys for safety.

Several primitive camping areas and picnic locations are also available around the shores of the lake. Campers are required to register at a box located for that purpose at the entrance to the reservoir.

Box Butte Reservoir is a Nebraska State Recreation Area managed by the Game and Parks Commission, and park permits are required for entr y. The permits may be obtained at one of several Hemingford businesses. Reservations not required.

CARHENGE ALLIANCE — The Stone Age meets the Industrial Revolution just a few miles north of Alliance, where automobiles from the 1950s and 1960s are arranged in a design that replicates a ring of stones erected in southern England thousands of years before the birth of Christ.

Buried trunk-first, the bodies of the cars used in the structure rise from 15 to 18 feet above ground, some straight into the air, others at an angle faithful to the appearance of Stonehenge. For the sake of uniformity, all the cars used have been painted a primer gray.

Former Alliance resident Jim Reinders envisioned Carhenge and ultimately created it on the farm where he once lived. The site was dedicated on the summer solstice in 1987. The STATE major stones of the Stonehenge creation are re-created with cars of approximately the

BOX BUTTE COUNTY

BOX BUTTE RESERVOIR RECREATION AREA HEMINGFORD — Located nine and a half miles north on asphalt road. This 1,600-acre reservoir on the Niobrara River offers camping and water-related recreation just south of the majestic Pine Ridge. Seven miles long and covering more than 1,600 acres, Box Butte Reservoir, just 10 miles north of Hemingford, is a scene of aquatic recreation in the summertime and one of the area’s more popular ice fisheries in the winter.

Created by the Works Projects Administration of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal in 1940 and 1941, the dam on the Niobrara River plays host to thousands of boaters, fishermen and swimmers each year.

Anglers can find walleye, yellow perch,

Escape to the serenity of a beautiful country setting, a few miles from town, but a world apart. Experience sunrise as you savor a morning cup of coffee on the second floor balcony. Watch the clouds float above the pines as you relax in the hammock in the courtyard.

4 DISCOVER US same dimensions, following the solar orientation of the British stone circle. The 10-acre area that is the site of Carhenge has grown to include other forms of car art, including sculptures of animals both modern and prehistoric, all crafted from automobile parts. For those inclined to prolong their visit there are also picnic tables and plenty of parking. Carhenge is open all year with no admission fee. Handicap accessible and group tours available.

The “Pitstop” visitor center is also open during the summer months beginning in May. A variety of Carhenge souvenirs and refreshments are available to help support the site.

Information: 308-760-1837 or visit website at www.carhenge.com.

DOBBY’S FRONTIER TOWN ALLIANCE — Dobby’s Frontier Town, located at 320 E. 25th St. in Alliance, is a recreation of Kenneth “Dobby” Lee’s boyhood town. His love of antiques and collecting encouraged him to give others a chance to see and feel what life in rural Nebraska was like at the turn of the 20th centur y. He started the town by “fitting out” an authentic general store, like the one his family owned when he was a boy in the 1930s. Soon, Dobby was rescuing historic buildings and recreating and furnishing authentic turn-of the-centur y homes and businesses. Since Dobby’s death in 2009, a new non-profit organization named Dobby’s Frontier Towners has taken on the task of refurbishing and preser ving Dobby’s dream.

His town is now home to the log cabin built by the Nebraska’s first black homesteader, and one of the first filling stations in the area. Collections include a turn-of-the-centur y mortuar y, a saloon and an example of a classic Nebraska-style straw bale building, and much more. Antiques and tools are now set for visitors to pick up and examine, giving Dobby’s Frontier Town a hands-on feel and making the unusual attraction a fun and recreational experience.

The town features a general store and meat market, 1880s post office bootlegger’s shack with lookout cupola, blacksmith forge, dress shop, cobbler’s shop, saloon, bordello, Rex’s Hamburger Stand, First National Bank, doctors and dentist’s office, jail and print shop.

A Fall Festival Sept. 24 – 25, with live music, entertainment, demonstrations, food and lots of fun the event is open to the public from 10 a.m. to dusk.

Summer hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Information: (308) 762-4321.

KNIGHT MUSEUM AND SANDHILLS CENTER ALLIANCE — Pioneer memorabilia, Native American artifacts and railroad history highlight the collection of the newly renovated Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, located at 908 Yellowstone in Alliance. Visitors to the museum can get a glimpse of the life lived by the people who settled in the Box Butte county area and the Nebraska Sandhills.

Smithsonian style displays are designed to accent the extensive collection of pioneer memorabilia.

The Knight Museum and Sandhills Center has compiled many of the city and county records into a digital database that is available to the public. They offer a large research room providing most records from Box Butte and the Panhandle, all microfilmed local newspapers and area authors. The photo and genealogical files are available for research.

Volunteer researchers are available to consult and help. The Knight Museum and Sandhills Center is open for Winter Hours Oct. 1 - April 30 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Summer Hours May 1 through September 30; 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Monday through Friday; Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.: Handicapped accessible and group tours available. The Newberry Gift Shop carrying local authors and unique gifts is now open. Free admission. Information: 308-762-2384, 308-7625400 or email museum@cityofalliance.net.

SALLOWS MILITARY MUSEUM ALLIANCE — The Sallows Military Museum opened in Sept. 2004 and is adjacent to the Sallows Arboretum at 1101 Niobrara in Alliance. There are exhibits from the Civil War through the Iraqi War, with emphasis on the Alliance Air Base. There are two display rooms and the library available for viewing that honor our many veterans. The displays feature interesting artifacts that tell a story of bravery and courage. Open daily; year-round from Monday through Friday 1 to 4 p.m. Open Sunday afternoons from May 1st to Labor Day. Handicap accessible and tours available. Information: 308-762-2384, 308-762-5400 or email museum@cityofalliance.net CENTRAL PARK FOUNTAIN ALLIANCE — This historic fountain is directly south of the Sallows Military Museum and is located at 10th St. and Niobrara, The fountain is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and was built during the by the WPA during Roosevelt’s administration. It has been refurbished and has a magnificent com-

DISCOVER US 5 puterized light show during evening hours. ends, and holidays. For more information, conOperates Memorial Day through Oct. 1, open tact Allen Pannell, cemetery administrator at all hours. Handicap accessible and tour groups 308-763-8426. available. Free admission. Information: 308762-5400 or email parks@cityofalliance.net.

CHEYENNE COUNTY

CARNEGIE ARTS CENTER ALLIANCE — The Carnegie Arts Center is a bastion of the fine arts in the Nebraska Panhandle. The center, located at 204 W. 4th St., features fine art displays from both local and regional artists and the Sculpture Garden.

Originally built in 1911, it opened as the restored Carnegie Arts Center in 1993. The main-floor gallery averages 19 different shows a year, featuring the works of local and regional artists from Nebraska, South Dakota, Colorado, Kansas and Wyoming. Carnegie visitors can purchase fine art gifts such as blown glass, pottery, prints and original works and jewelr y. Carnegie also has hosted such renowned exhibits as the Albrecht Durer and Rembrandt print collection.

Open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. Group tours are also available. Admission is free, handicap accessible. Information: 308-762-4571 or email carnegieartscenter@bbc.net, and visit the website at www.carnegieartscenter.com.

NEBRASKA VETERANS CEMETERY AT ALLIANCE ALLIANCE — Nebraska’s first state veterans cemetery is located on 20 acres, three miles east of town and two hundred yards from the Alliance airport. This facility is an inspirational stop for traveling families as well as regional residents. Cemetery staff encourages school field trips and the integration of other educational programs that support veterans and history. Shadow boxes, in the administration building lobby, hold photos and medals of veterans that have been recently interred. A committal shelter with concrete foundation and wood roof, resembling a church sanctuary, is available for graveside services. It is landscaped with grasses, bushes, and trees that are native to the area and reflect the prairie of western Nebraska. Underground irrigation and drip lines run to all of the trees and ornamental landscaping. Pre-placed crypts allow for more graves per acre and reduce maintenance costs related to sunken graves. The site can accommodate over 8,000 casketed and cremated interments. Spreading of ashes is also allowed in the Memorial Garden. Concrete sidewalks and roads make access easy for those using wheelchairs and motorized vehicles. Business hours are Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

However, the gates are open evenings, week-

LODGEPOLE Lodgepole was founded in 1867, platted in 1884 and incorporated as an official village in 1901. The Union Pacific Railroad named the town of 368 residents Lodge Pole in 1867. In 1895, the postal department changed the name to one word, Lodgepole. The name is derived from the creek bearing the same name, stemming from when Native Americans cut poles for tepees (lodges) along its banks.

A dr y goods and grocer y store opened in 1867 and several ranchers began settling at that time. It is the second oldest community in Cheyenne County. The first school district was founded in 1881.

The Lodgepole Depot Museum offers visitors a peek into the past. Information: 308483-5353.

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6 DISCOVER US CABELA’S SIDNEY — Located just off I-80 Sidney Exit 59 (115 Cabela Drive Sidney, NE 69160), Cabela’s offers visitors the opportunity to browse through a wide array of quality outdoor merchandise, including hunting, fishing, camping and outdoor gear.

The impressive 100,000 square foot showroom with boat shop is also an educational and entertainment attraction, featuring a décor of museum-quality animal displays, huge aquariums and mounted trophy animals interacting in realistic recreations of their natural habitats. A deli-style restaurant offers fare ranging from wild-game entrees to traditional sandwiches.

Adjacent to Cabela’s Retail Showroom is a camping area with 27 pull-through sites, four back-in sites, as well as six tent sites.

Additional amenities include semi parking, RV parking and use of dog kennels and a horse corral for your animals while you shop.

Information: 308-254-7889; www.cabelas.com.

For more information, visit nebraska. angelofhope.info or call the Cheyenne County Visitor’s Center at 866-545-4030 or 308-2544030.

FORT SIDNEY MUSEUM AND POST COMMANDER’S HOME SIDNEY — Garrison, located at Sixth and Jackson Street, was built to protect railroad workers in the late 1800s. Historical markers give the history of the old railroad town and the north-south trails to the gold fields in the Black Hills.

The museum is open May 1 through Labor Day, 9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m. daily. Post Commander’s Home, located at 1153 Sixth Ave., is open May 1 through Labor Day, Monday through Friday, 9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. or by appointment. Free admission and handicapped accessible. Information: 308-254-2150.

LIVING MEMORIAL GARDENS ANGEL OF HOPE SIDNEY —The memorial, located in Legion SIDNEY — Nebraska’s first Christmas Box Park, is an established monument to honor the Angel was unveiled in October 2008 and was part Sidney plays in American history. The officially dedicated on Sept. 26, 2009. The memorial was created for loved ones by the Angel of Hope is located at the Living Memorial Gardens in Sidney’s Legion Park. The bronze angel sculpture with its arms lifted to the heavens is surrounded by four-foot granite memory walls and reflection benches.

The Angel of Hope and Living Memorial Gardens offers visitors a beautiful, peaceful setting, dedicated to people who have lost a loved one. When a person looks closely at the bronze angel, the word “HOPE” can be found in the angel’s right wing.

Rita Schinzel-Anest, one of the organizers of the project, said the Angel of Hope was done as a way to provide a quiet spot where people could go and further the healing process.

“It is a quiet spot to go, and more of a healing place,” she said. “To me it is a happier place and a memorial for people in the area and hopefully will continue to draw many visitors.”

She said the vision of the project is not only to provide a place for people to mourn for the loss of a child but a place where everyone can sit and reflect about a person who had an impact on their life.

“Those who have endured the loss of a spouse through death or divorce, those who have experienced the pain of losing one or both parents or maybe those who are coping with an illness or terminal disease. We want the Angel of Hope to be a healing place for everyone.”

She said the angels are heavily visited, especially during the Annual Day of Remembrance 111 W. 36th Street on Dec. 6.

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DISCOVER US 7 planting of trees, shrubs or other living plants.

Legion Park also houses the War Memorial commemorating veterans from all American wars. The memorial includes a 141-foot flagpole and one of the country’s largest American flags. Group tours are available.

Information: 308-254-5851 or 800-421-4769.

College in 1964. Plays continued to be staged for the most part in Chadron until 1967, when a federal grant was received “to foster cultural programs in northwest Nebraska.”

The old quartermaster warehouse at the fort was converted to a theater. In 1992, the theater under went a $240,000 renovation project, including an exterior makeover, installation of 180 new seats, air-conditioning and conversion DALTON of the building for full handicapped accessibiliDalton is an agricultural community of 332 ty. http://www.ngpc.state.ne.us/parks. residents on U.S. Highway 385, 20 miles north of Interstate 80 at Sidney’s east interchange.

FORT ROBINSON STATE PARK — 3 Work began on the Burlington-Northern miles west on Highway 20. Visitors can stay Railroad in 1898 and was completed in 1900. where blue-coated cavalrymen once bunked.

The first depot was built in 1908 and the town Activities include trail rides, historic tours, was incorporated in 1909. It was then that the cookouts, swimming, trout fishing, crafts, hikfirst school was built. History of this small com- ing, Jeep and stagecoach rides and more. Park munity can also be seen at the Prairie Schooner grounds open year-round for day use, hiking Museum. Step into the past with a visit to the and camping, mountain biking and hunting in log cabin, adjacent to the museum 109 US Hwy season. Cabins, lodge, modern facilities, big385 - Community history and model railroad game firearm and wild turkey season cabins engines on display. Open Memorial Day-Labor open April 1 through mid-November. Park Day, Sat-Sun, 1-4 p.m.; or by appointment call office hours are 8 a.m.- 5 p.m., weekdays, dur308-279-2866. ing winter hours, then open 24 hours Memorial Day through Labor Day. Visitor activities Memorial Day through Labor Day plus limited

DAWES COUNTY

FORT ROBINSON — near CRAWFORD, is a former military post and is the largest of Nebraska’s state parks. It was once the home of cavalry soldiers and, later, German prisoners of war, it has now become quite popular with tourists from in and out of the state. The park occupies some 22,000 acres of buttes, forested hills and grassy pastures where longhorn cattle, antelope and buffalo graze. Bighorn sheep may be found in the Legend Buttes of the park and deer and elk occasionally wander in as well.

Anglers may try their luck in several ponds and streams on the grounds of the fort.

Horseback excursions are offered daily during the summer season, as are stagecoach rides and jeep tours. In summer evenings the Post Playhouse offers entertainment with live theater. Facilities are available for camping in recreational vehicles and tents, and rooms are offered for overnight stays in reconditioned barracks, most with kitchen facilities.

Fort Robinson has a rich military history and the Nebraska Historical Society’s Fort Robinson Museum, located in the park, documents the years of the fort’s activity. Those interested in the area’s paleontology and geological histor y will find the University of Nebraska’s Trailside Museum to be a wealth of information.

The Post Playhouse has its roots in a summer theater production at Chadron State

• Foreign & Domestic Geodes • Petrified Wood • Crystals • Agates • Jaspers • Gems • Amethyst Cathedrals & Fossils • Mineral Specimen • Rough Slabs • Cabs • Lapidary Equipment (new & used) • Pashmina Shawls • Upscale Purses • Paintings • Stone Animals/Fetishes • Artistic Tile • Cards • Painted Glass • Wind Chimes • Parrot Planters • Artistic Iron • Walking Sticks • Many Other Gifts!

Fancy coffees, smoothies and great breakfast & lunch menus in the Coffee Cabin!

8 DISCOVER US museums. Park entr y permit required. 1670 to 1900.

Camping fee charged. Handicapped accessible.

The museum grounds include the Bordeaux Information: 308-665-2900.

Trading Post built in 1837 by the American Fur Company and operated until 1876. The Indian FORT ROBINSON MUSEUM — 3 miles heirloom garden features varieties of corn, west on Highway 20. This Nebraska State squash, and bean used by Northern Plains Historical Society Branch Museum offers inter- Indians. pretive exhibits. Post Headquarters feature fasThe museum will features a special exhibit cinating items from the Fort’s 70-year history. on the history of The Voyageurs. The canoe View bison, bighorn sheep, elk and antelope. men were the people who carried the goods 22,000 acres. Open Memorial Day through across the country.

Labor Day. Admission adults $2, children The museum is open May 1 through October accompanied by an adult are free. Admission 31, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and by appointfor unaccompanied children is 50 cents. ment from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during off season.

Handicapped accessible. Information: 308-665- Admission is $5 adults, and children under the 2919. age of 18 are free when accompanied by an adult. Handicapped accessible. Information: CHADRON STATE PARK 308-432-3843 or visit www.furtrade.org.

Chadron State Park, nine miles south of Chadron, is nestled in the heart of Nebraska’s MARI SANDOZ HIGH PLAINS HERPine Ridge, founded in 1921. Its grounds fea- ITAGE CENTER ture rugged, ponderosa pine-clad hills and CHADRON — The Mari Sandoz High open meadows, with Chadron Creek running Plains Heritage Center at Chadron State through the park. A lagoon created from the College celebrates the works of the noted creek’s waters offers trout fishing and paddle prairie author. boating. At one time the lagoon was a well-utiNebraska’s Storyteller of the Plains, Mari lized swimming hole. There is a modern heat- Sandoz, not only wrote about the challenges of ed pool built in the 1960s. The newer pool con- life on the prairie, she lived it as well. Sandoz tinues to be a popular spot for visitors and local was born on Mirage Flats, south of Hay community members seeking to escape the Springs, May 11, 1896, to Swiss immigrant heat of northwest Nebraska summers. parents. After years of struggle and rejection Spring turkey hunting and the fall deer sea- that left her destitute to the point of malnutrison open and close the park’s busy season, tion, Sandoz finally published her first book, although throughout the year visitors are wel- Old Jules, a biography of her father. In addicome. Chadron State Park has rustic cabins tion to Old Jules, Sandoz is best known for her and duplex housing is available for those pre- for her books Cheyenne Autumn and Crazy ferring to “rough it” in more comfortable sur- Horse. In all, Sandoz authored 23 books. roundings. There is primitive and electrical The Center also preserves the history of the camping permitted and tent campers will also Cattle Ranching industry of the High Plains find well-groomed areas for an evening’s rest. through the C.F. Coffee Gallery. Named for Hiking and biking are accommodated by the the long time ranching family, the Coffee park’s trail system, and the open picnic Gallery explores the development and evolugrounds are equally conducive to recreational tion of the ranching industry in northwest activities and restful idling. Horseback riding, Nebraska. trading post and snack bar are available. Daily The College’s former library building, built permits are $4, or annual park stickers are $20, in 1929, serves as a museum and research permits allow entrance into all Nebraska Parks. center. Information: 308-432-6401 or visit the Information: 308-432-6167. website at www.csc.edu/sandoz.

MUSEUM OF THE FUR TRADE A cornerstone of North America’s Fur Trade heritage, located three miles east of Chadron on Highway 20.

See the history of the first business in North America – the fur trade; including the entire range of goods traded to the Indians, such as textiles, costumes, beads, paints, kettles, knives and silver. The museum also has the largest and most complete collection of Northwest guns made for the Indian trade from

CRAWFORD NEBRASKA HIGH COUNTRY RANCH RIDE — 8 miles east of Crawford. Call for reservations anytime. Group rates. Deer and turkey hunting trips are available. Information 308-665-1580, 308-665-2343, 308-667-2764 or email at highcountr yranchride@bbcwbnet.

Horse rides also offered through Nebraska High Country Ranch ride, call for information or visit web site at www.nebraskahighcountryranchride.com.

DISCOVER US 9 HUDSON-MENG BISON KILL ENCLOSURE — Turn off Nebraska Highways 2 and 71 approximately four miles north of Crawford, turn west on Toadstool Road following signs to Hudson-Meng, 15 miles of gravel road.

Sheltered, active archaeological site opens Memorial Day weekend. More than 600 10,000year-old bison skeletons have been unearthed at the site. Guided interpretive tours. Open daily Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission, adults $5, children $3, four and under free. Senior and group rates available. Center 308-665-3900 or Forest Supervisor’s office 308-432-0300.

SOLDIER CREEK WILDERNESS — CRAWFORD, near Fort Robinson. This federal wilderness encompasses 7,794 acres and offers 16 miles of trails for non-mechanized use only.

See a variety of wildlife as well as buttes and pinnacles. Deer and turkey hunting. Open yearround. Camping fee at Soldier Creek Trailhead $8. Additional camping areas: Roberts Trailhead, $8 camping and Red Cloud $5 camping.

Handicapped accessible toilets.

Information: 308-432-0300. Camping fees in effect May 21 through mid Nov. TRAILSIDE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY — The museum is located at historic Fort Robinson State Park. Three miles west of Crawford, on Highway 20, about 2 hours from Interstate 80. The main floor of the museum where the exhibits and restrooms are located is wheelchair accessible. The art gallery, located on a lower level, is not wheelchair accessible. Open Memorial Day – Labor Day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; April and May open Thursday – Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and September and October from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fees are $3 adults; $1 for youth 5 – 18 years; and free for children under 4 years of age; families of two adults and children $6. Program fees and park permit, $4 one-time or $20 annual. Call (308) 665-2929 for more information.

TOADSTOOL PARK — Four miles north of Crawford on Nebraska Highways 2 and 71, turn west onto Toadstool Road (gravel road), following signs to Toadstool Park. The moon-like landscape of the Badlands is an unusual setting for a picnic. Use self-guided trail brochure to explore the area’s fascinating geology. Open year-round, 24 hours a day. Admission: $3 day use fee, Handicapped accessible camping facilities, $5 per night camping fee at Toadstool Park (includes day use fee). Information: 308432-0300.

WARBONNET BATTLEFIELD — Five

miles north on Nebraska Highways 2 and 71, 2 miles west on gravel, turn right, proceed 1 mile past Toadstool Park turnoff, turn left on Orella Road, cross tracks and follow main gravel west to Church of Montrose. North of the church is a high conical hill, an encounter took place between the 5th U.S. Cavalry and a group of Native Americans in 1876. Southeast of the hill, a monument memorializes the slaying of Cheyenne warrior, Yellow Hand, who was killed there by Buffalo Bill Cody.

DEUEL COUNTY BIG SPRINGS Located along the Oregon-California Trail, the town is named after the pure spring water that poured out of a hillside. The original spring still flows down above a park with swimming pool, playground, and historical museum and a Veterans Memorial across the street from the park.

Built in 1885, the Phelps Hotel is viewed as the most important 19th Century landmark in Deuel County. The Historic Phelps Hotel has been restored into a bed and breakfast. The building is a large two-story frame structure

10 DISCOVER US with a hip roof. Phelps Hotel is also enrolled on the National Register of Historic Places. To reserve the hotel contact Randy Shaw at 308889-3580. For more information on Big Springs contact the Village Clerk at 308-289-5534.

CHAPPELL The town has a Pony Express marker, Chappell Lake, municipal golf course, city swimming pool, a Legion Baseball park and a library that includes an art display. The city’s museum, located at the corner of 3rd Street and Babcock, includes paintings by well-known artists and a rock collection donated by a local collector.

The Sudman-Neumann Heritage House, located at Fifth and Vincent, is an example of 1911 architecture, built and inhabited by members of one family. Information: 308-874-2401.

bluffs at Windlass Hill. The history archaeology and paleontology of the area are interpreted at the visitor center. A hiking trail from the visitor center provides access to the spring in the bottom of the canyon. Grounds open yearround 8 a.m.- sunset. Interpretive facilities.

Visitor Center and cave. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day: Thursday – Sunday 9 a.m.

- 4 p.m., during the summer. Park entry permit required. Handicap accessible. Information: 308-778-5651.

CRESCENT LAKE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE OSHKOSH — 28 miles north between U.S. 26 and Nebraska 2. This little known refuge located in the Nebraska Panhandle consists of 45,818 acres of rolling sandhills, the largest continuous sand dune area in America. The grass-covered dunes were created from the wind blown sands of an ancient sea. The twenASH HOLLOW STATE HISTORICAL ty-one lakes and numerous ponds are supportPARK ed by an aquifer lying below the hills.

LEWELLEN — Southeast on U.S. 26. Sweet spring water made this park near Lewellen a GARDEN COUNTY MUSEUM major stopover on the Overland Trail. Ruts OSHKOSH — An early 1900s schoolhouse etched by westbound wagons are visible on the and an old 1906 opera house/theatre are filled

GARDEN COUNTY

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DISCOVER US 11 with historic artifacts. Summer hours: teal, gadwall, pintail, wood duck, avocet and Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, 2 to great horned owl.

6 p.m. or by appointment. Free. 308-772-3848.

Fishing is offered at the site, and game fish include walleye, large mouth bass, yellow MUNICIPAL SWIMMING POOL perch and channel catfish. Ice fishing is a winOSHKOSH — Free-swimming daily 1 to 5 ter activity. p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., from June 1 to Aug. 15.

The reservoir has 24 camping units for trailClosed Saturday evenings. Located one block ers or tents, comfort stations and a boat ramp. east of Main Street at 200 E. B Street.

The Division of State Parks and Historic Sites administers and maintains the Hawk Springs, while the Wyoming Game & Fish agency reguWyoming (Goshen County) lates the recreational use of the water and stocks the reservoir with fish.

FORT LARAMIE NATIONAL HISTORIReservoir access open daily, entrance $2 for CAL SITE residents, $3 non-resident Annual permit $25 FORT LARAMIE, Wyo. — Located three residents and non-residents. Resident camping miles southwest of the town of Fort Laramie, permit $25.

Wyo., off U.S. Route 26. The fort grounds are open from dawn to dusk every day of the year.

THE WESTERN HISTORY CENTER New at the Fort is the joint Junior Ranger proLINGLE, Wyo. — In this log building, visigram with Guernsey State Park, 13 miles west tors will see historic and archaeological items, on U.S. Highway 26. A completed scavenger including mammoth tusks and prehistoric hunt, directed by the special Junior Ranger tools, as well as geological collections and rotatbooklet at either site, earns a badge. If com- ing displays of other collections of interest. In pleted at both sites, a special coin, depicting addition, there is a hands-on “dig” for children Old Bedlam at Fort Laramie, and the museum of all ages, and a bookstore. Located five miles at Guernsey State Park, is the prize. Valid west of Lingle, Wyo., and five miles east of Fort Memorial Day to Labor Day. The fort museum Laramie, Wyo., the museum is easy to spot and visitor center is open at 8 a.m. with extend- because of the cutout Mammoth on the ed hours during the summer season, Fort grounds by road. Summer hours, between June Laramie summer season is May 1-Sept. 30, $3 1 and Aug. 31, are Monday through Saturday entry fee. Handicap accessible. Information: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. For 307-837-2221. special tours and extended hours, call 307-8373052. Handicap accessible.

HOMESTEADERS MUSEUM TORRINGTON, Wyo. — Located at 495 Main Street, Spring hours Monday – Friday KIMBALL from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Summer hours Visit Kimball’s web site at www.kimballbanMemorial Day to Labor Day - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; nercountychamber.com GOTTE PARK — Kimball. Located on East Thursday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 12 to 5 p.m., and closed on Highway 30. The park offers a horseshoe ring, Sunday. Torrington was incorporated in 1908, tennis court, and swimming pool. Information: and Goshen County was established in 1913. 308-235-3782.

The museum, located at the old Union Pacific OLIVER STATE RECREATION AREA — Depot, displays homesteading in Goshen County, including the Trout Homestead Shack, Eight miles west of Kimball on U.S. 30. Open the Yoder House, Midway School, and the year-round, 24 hours a day for camping and Memorial Transportation Building housing fishing. Excellent facilities for boating, waterthe first car in Goshen County, and a stage skiing, fishing, swimming, ice fishing, camping, coach. Museum founded as a bicentennial proj- and ice-skating. Sandy beaches. State Park ect. Admission is free and donations are accept- entry permit required $17/annual or $3/daily.

A camping fee of $3 per night for primitive ed. Information: 307-532-5612. camping applies. 308-235-4040.

HAWK SPRING RECREATION — PANORAMA POINT AND THREELocated off Highway 85 in Goshen County, Hawk Springs offers boating, waterskiing, pic- STATE MARKER — 40 miles southwest of nicking and camping. The reservoir has a blue Kimball. Visit Nebraska’s highest point at 5,424 heron rookery. Visitors might see a Canada feet. See the Three-State Marker (Nebraska, goose, mallard, blue–winged and green-winged Wyoming, and Colorado). Maps and certifi-

GOSHEN COUNTY

KIMBALL COUNTY

12 DISCOVER US cates available for both sites at KimballBanner County Chamber of Commerce, located at 122 South Chestnut in Kimball.

Information: 308-235-3782.

group tours, and wagon train treks. Write for tour schedules. RV Park available. Charge for activities. By reservation only. Handicapped accessible and groups available. Information: 308-586-1850 or check out the website at WIND FARM — To view from Highway 71 www.oregontrailwagontrain.com go three miles northwest of Kimball or for a closer view go two miles west of town on BRIDGEPORT Highway 30 and onto dirt road. The seven wind BRIDGEPOR T STATE RECREATION turbines each standing 350 feet tall, with the AREA — BRIDGEPORT, U.S. 26 or U.S. 385. turbine and blades weighing more than 40 tons. Sandpit lakes provide recreation within a few The wind farm is expected to generate about minutes of Chimney, Courthouse and Jail two to three percent of electric energy for near- Rocks. Bridgeport State Recreation Area is ly 4,000 homes. Information: 402-474-4759. open year-round. Wildcat Hills Nature Center summer hours are: 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Trailer dump station open April 30 - Oct. 1. Park entry permit required. Fee for primitive camping: $6 BAYARD per night. Information: 308-262-1825.

CHIMNEY ROCK NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE AND VISITORS CENTER — PIONEER TRAILS MUSEUM — Bayard, Located 1 mile south of Highway 92 BRIDGEPORT. North end of Main Street. Open and County Road 75. “Towering to the heav- Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, ens” is how one pioneer described Chimney Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Rock, the most recognized landmark along the Sunday 1 to 6 p.m. Free admission. 308-262-0123.

Oregon Trail. Today an interpretive center operated by the Nebraska State Historical COUR THOUSE AND JAILHOUSE Society pays tribute to those who traveled the ROCKS — Bridgeport. 5 miles south on trails and features original maps made from Nebraska 88. These unusual rock formations Captain John C. Fremont’s 1842-43 exploration were two of the first “road signs” met by westof the Oregon Trail. Open daily from 9 a.m. to ward travelers. Open year-round during day5 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults. Closed all light hours. Free and tours are available. state holidays. Handicapped accessible.

Information: 308-586-2581.

MORRILL COUNTY

SCOTTS BLUFF COUNTY

OREGON TRAIL WAGON TRAIN — BAYARD, 2 miles south of Bayard, 1½ mile west on Oregon Trail Road. Experience the real West in the shadow of Chimney Rock aboard a prairie schooner on the Oregon Trail. Exciting journeys, complete with Pony Express riders and Indians, are available on a one-day basis.

Evening chuck wagon nightly rib-eye steak cookout; canoe rental; guided, prearranged

For Reservations call 1-800-4CHOICE or 308-632-7510

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Free Continental Breakfast Indoor Pool & Hot Tub Exercise Facilities Suites Available

FARM AND RANCH MUSEUM GERING - Volunteers dedicated to preserving the region’s farm agricultural heritage created The Farm And Ranch Museum.

The museum, located one-half mile west of Gering, 2930 Old Oregon Trail, is still under volunteer leadership and operates mainly by donations.

The Harvest Festival at the Farm And Ranch

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DISCOVER US 13 Museum offers many activities and demonstrations for people of all ages. Events include demonstrations of early farming methods and exhibits of vintage machinery.

The museum is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, from 1 to 5 p.m., May through September.

Appointments may be made for tours and visits during the winter. Information: 308-436-1989.

the Rocks” are shown Thursdays at 9 p.m.

Admission is $2. Many events are scheduled at Five Rocks Amphitheater. Check out the schedule at www.gering.org. Schedules are also available at the City of Gering office located at 1025 P St. Tickets and information: 308-436-5096.

MIDWEST THEATER SCOTTBLUFF — The Historic Midwest Theater is the last of three “grand theaters” which were built in the Scottsbluff/Gering area. The theater seats 700 people, and opened on May 3, 1946. The theater was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1997.

Friends of the Midwest Theater, was established in 1998 as a non-profit group to renovate and keep the theater active for the community.

The theater is designed in the Art Modern style of architecture and exhibits an exceptionally high degree of architectural and artistic integrity, both on its interior and exterior.

The theater’s most striking feature, as described in a 1946 newspaper article, “is the marquee with a stainless steel and aluminum tower extending 60’ above the entrance.” The lighted tower was designed to be seen at night for a radius of twenty miles. The “modern” interior decor and the dominant marquee and tower added to the architectural excitement of the streetscape of Scottsbluff’s downtown business district.

The Friends of the Midwest Theater programs both mainstream and specialty films, visual and performing arts, school and community educational programming and the theater can be reserved for special events.

LAKE MINATARE MINATARE — Lake Minatare State Recreation Area, only 12 miles from Scottsbluff/Gering, is ideal for camping, picnics, water, sports, hiking, fishing and watching wildlife.

The park is open Jan. 14 – Oct. 15 annual permits are $20. Day passes are $4 per car. Both can be purchased at the park headquarters.

The park has campsites with electrical outlets. There are also about 150 to 180 primitive campsites around the 2,180-acre park.

Lake Minatare also features one of only seven inland lighthouses in the United States.

The lighthouse was built during the Depression to be “a point of light and hope” for Panhandle residents.

The lake is part of the North Platte Wildlife Refuge, which also opens for public use Jan. 15 - Oct. 1 and provides opportunities to view waterfowl and wildlife, as well as hiking, fishing, boating and photography.

The refuge closes for public use every Oct. 15 to provide undisturbed habitat for waterfowl during the migration period. As mild temperatures persist and ice gives way to open water, the four refuge units – Lake Minatare, Winters Creek Lake, Lake Alice and Stateline Island – SCOTTS BLUFF NATIONAL MONUMENT are ideal resting spots for waterfowl. The GERING — From 1841 to 1869, 250,000 piorefuge is also important as a nesting location neers traveled one of four trails that included for bald eagles.

Oregon, Mormon, California and Pony Express through the Mitchell Pass as a final gateway to LAKE MINATARE STATE RECRE- the Rocky Mountains.

ATION AREA — MINATARE. 7 miles north Today, Scotts Bluff National Monument of Minatare. Over 2,000 acres of water with looms above the historic Mitchell pass and facilities for boaters, campers, fishermen and North Platte River Valley three miles west of outdoor enthusiasts. The Stone lighthouse and Gering. The Saddle Rock walking trail and the Swimming beach are open 8 a.m.-9:30 p.m., 7 Summit Road with it’s three tunnels lead to the days/week. Information: 308-783-2911. monument’s summit.

The monument museum contains exhibits FIVE ROCKS AMPHITHEATER about the human and natural history of the GERING — Five Rocks Amphitheater is an area and also holds a unique collection of wateroutdoor entertainment venue located a quarter- color paintings by famed frontier photographer mile south of the junction of Five Rocks Road and artist William Henry Jackson. and M Street in Gering. Each year the There are permanent exhibits on the amphitheater is host to a variety of entertain- Westward Movement, and periodic temporary ers. It has a capacity of 3,200 people. displays and traveling exhibits. There is also a Five Rocks outdoor cinema has become a 12-minute orientation program. popular place to spend the summer evenings Scottsbluff National Monument – Open daily watching movies under the stars. “Movies at 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. open all holidays except

14 DISCOVER US Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission $5 per car, $3 motorcycle, $3 walkers, 62 and over free with a Golden Age Pass.

A Bi-park Pass $15 good for Scotts Bluff National Monument, and Ft. Laramie. Handicapped accessible. Information 308-436-4340.

THEATRE WEST SCOTTSBLUFF — Theatre West Summer Repertor y is a semi-professional theatre Company operating in Scottsbluff. The company was formed in 1990 as a not-for-profit organization and consists of a live summer theatre program and Theatre Opportunity For Youth (TOFY), a children’s camp. TWSR is housed at Western Nebraska Community College (1601 East 27th Street) and is directed by an executive director and board, as well as a community advisory board. It is generously supported by Western Nebraska Community College.

Each summer, Theatre West operates during a 10-week season. The company presents three separate productions with eight performances of each production, providing opportunity for experience, training, and performance, as well as live theatre productions for our audience members.

A high dchool intern program is offered each season giving experience and training to students interested in Theatre. The TOFY Camp invites youth, ages 6 - 13, to participate each season. For information concerning Theatre West, the Internship Program, or the TOFY Camp call 308-635-6794.

Theatre West offers professional directors, designers, and actors from across the United States, collegiate theatre majors, as well as talented musicians, actors, and singers from our own community. Choice reserved seating is available to productions with season tickets and/or advanced individual tickets. The theatre is handicapped accessible. Call 308-635-6193 for tickets. More information can be obtained at Judy@nebraskarts.com or by telephone at 308-635-6794.

RIVERSIDE DISCOVERY CENTER SCOTTSBLUFF — Celebrating its 61st anniversary this year, Riverside Discovery Center provides the area with great family fun and entertainment. Riverside Discovery Center (RDC) exhibits roughly 180 animals, including reptiles, birds, invertebrates and mammals.

RDC is located at 1600 S. Beltline Highway West in Scottsbluff.

Animal residents include chimpanzees, Amur tigers, spider monkeys, lions, zebras, Eurasian lynx, African hoof stock, and various

DISCOVER US 15 fowl on the zoo’s lake and children enjoy a playground, petting zoo and an all-new splash pad.

Summer hours: March through November, gates open 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Winter hours: December through February, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission $4 adults, $2 seniors, $2 ages 5-12, under 4 free. Group rates for 15 or more persons: ½ off each admission.

Handicapped accessible. Information: 308-6306236.

Riverside Discovery Center will be constructing a new 17,000 sq. ft. education/museum center, beginning in 2011, which will include a children’s museum and Wildlife World (natural history museum of over 650 mounts).

WILDLIFE WORLD AT THE WYOBRASKA NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM GERING — 950 U St. See over 600 animal specimens from seven continents, fossils, and dioramas in this renovated train station. Many are one of a kind. Summer hours begin May 1.

Handicapped accessible. Exhibits will move to Riverside Discover y Center in the future.

Information: 308-436-7104 or 308-630-6236.

WEST NEBRASKA ARTS CENTER SCOTTSBLUFF — Established in 1967, the West Nebraska Arts Center provides artists a lively public venue to share their talents with our community. The Arts Center’s eclectic programming leads adults and youth to a better understanding and appreciation of the arts.

The gallery at 106 East 18th Street features local, national and international artists and represents a wide variety of visual art forms with a new exhibit each month. Gallery exhibits and receptions are free and open to the public.

The Arts Center is also a presenter of live performances of theatre, music and dance.

WNAC’s Monument Children’s Theater gives the youth of our community professional training in theatre arts.

Arts professionals offer a variety of studio art classes and workshops to adults and youth throughout the year. WNAC’s summer Art Camp offers workshops in visual and performing arts and creative writing to youth ages 1014.

Visit the gallery at 106 East 18th Street in Scottsbluff.

Galler y hours are Tuesday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekends 1 to 5 p.m., and closed Mondays. Also open by appointment, call the office 308-632-2226. Visit www.thewnac.com to learn more.

WILDCAT HILLS NATURE CENTER GERING — Overlooking the North Platte

Valley, the Wildcat Hills Nature Center offers tourists the chance to learn about the ecology and history of the area, while providing a scenic view of the surrounding hills.

Upon entering the building, visitors find a 27foot artificial Ponderosa pine in the middle of the room, disappearing through a hole in the floor and leading to the level below. A variety of mounted birds stare down from their high perches, each positioned in various poses.

Across the way are doors leading out to an observation deck.

Downstairs, a display stands in one corner, featuring various wildlife in their natural habitats. A live beehive sits off along another wall, allowing the bees to come and go to the outdoors through a little tunnel and a hole in the wall.

On the opposite wall, a huge mural depicting the land, decorates every inch from floor to ceiling. A display case also sits off to one side, exhibiting fossils that were discovered a short distance away.

Along with the chance to learn about nature and history in an intriguing environment, the nature center also provides its visitors with a wide variety of programs, including visits from

16 DISCOVER US can be reserved for special occasions such as weddings, reunions and banquets. The nature center also houses a gift shop.

Outside there are 3½ miles worth of hiking trails, a picnic area with shelters and a campground located near the nature center.

The Wildcat Hills Nature Center offers educational activities for students from kindergarten through sixth grades, including children’s day camps and nature series art classes, which take place five weeks out of the summer.

Pre-registration and pre-payment are required and some events have enrollment limits.

Registrations may be picked up at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center, located south of Gering.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., seven days per week from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Winter hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. A park permit is required for the campground and any other facilities. Daily park permits cost $4 and annual permits are $20. They can be purchased at the Nature Center. Information: 308-436-3777.

NORTH PLATTE VALLEY MUSEUM — GERING. Located three blocks south of the Gering Civic Center on the corner of 11th and J Streets. Explore the valley’s unique history from nomadic plains Indians villages to Oregon Trail travel and early pioneer settlement as depicted in well presented, informative exhibits. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Open Memorial Day – Labor Day; Daily as well as Saturdays and Sundays 1 to 4 p.m. Admission $3 adults, $1 children 6-12, children 5 and under are free. Handicapped accessible.

Information: 308-436-5411.

ROBIDOUX PASS — GERING. At the junctions of Five Rocks Road and M Street, go 1 mile south on Five Rocks Road, then turn west and go 8 miles. Western traffic flowed through this pass from 1843 to 1851. Left of the road is a monument for the blacksmith shop; to the right are pioneer graves. Reconstructed trading post in Carter Canyon, south of Gering; turn right at Cedar Canyon Road. Grounds open year-round. Groups by appointment. Free.

Information: 308-436-6886.

Highway. Rebecca Winters was born in New York State in 1802 and was a pioneer in the Church of the Latter Day Saints.

In June 1852, Rebecca, with her husband Hiram, joined others of their faith, in the great journey to Utah. Rebecca contracted cholera and died. A friend chiseled her name and the year on an iron wagon tire to mark her grave on the prairies.

In 1899, sur veyors for the Burlington Railroad found the crude marker and changed the right-of-way for the railroad. The site was one of the more famous historical locations along the Mormon Trail. With heavy coal train traffic along the railroad, it became necessary to relocate the grave of Rebecca Winters Sept.

5, 1995, to the area of the current historical marker. Handicapped accessible.

SHERIDAN COUNTY GORDON SCAMAHORN MUSEUM — West Fifth Street in Wayland Park. The history of the Gordon area is in this 1884 church. Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 1 to 4 p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. or by appointment Free admission.

BOWRING RANCH — Located 30 miles east of Gordon, just north of Merriman. This historical museum about Arthur and Eva Bowring, who both served in the U.S. House of Representatives, is a working ranch. The ranch features a visitor’s center of artifacts and memorabilia of early day ranching and the Bowring’s political careers and a replica of a sod house from the 1800’s. The ranch also offers tours of the original Bowring home, which is filled with antique china and glassware. Tours begin in May and close Sept. 1.

Information: 308-684-3428.

TRI-STATE OLD TIME COWBOYS MEMORIAL MUSEUM — Located in the city park 1 block west of Main Street between 3rd and 4th Streets. This log building contains cowboy artifacts such as saddles, hats and boots, plus a chuck wagon with over 200 cattle brands.

Open Memorial Day thru mid-September, 1-5 WILDCAT HILLS STATE RECREATION p.m.; or by appointment. Free admission.

AREA — Gering. 10 miles south on Highway Handicapped accessible. Group tours available.

71. Beautiful and rugged, a treat for backpack- Information: 308-282-0749. ers, hikers, campers and photographers. Park HAY SPRINGS entr y permit required. Camping fee.

Hay Springs Information: 308-436-3777.

Heritage Center I and II — The first center is REBECCA WINTER’S GRAVE — at Second and Main streets in an old hardware Scottsbluff. 2 miles east of Scottsbluff at the store, the second center is on N. Baker Street junction of U.S. Highway 26 and S. Beltline in an 1884 church. The centers offer the histo-

DISCOVER US 17 ry of the Hay Springs area. The centers are 15 miles nor th of Harrison. The Oglala open by appointment. Free admission. National Grassland begins 5 miles northwest Information: 308-638-7643. of Crawford and ends up in the corner of Nebraska, where Nebraska meets Wyoming RUSHVILLE and South Dakota. The grasslands cover Sheridan County Historical Museum — almost 95,000 acres of prairie grasses providJust off Highway 20 in Rushville. The com- ing hunting in season, hiking and nature plete stor y of Camp Sheridan and the Spotted study in the high countr y of western Tail Agency can be found here, along with Nebraska. Tourists are encouraged to be numerous exhibits showing life on the fron- aware that some of the land is privately tier. Open Memorial Day - Labor Day owned among the grassland and may not be Monday – Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. and by appropriate for recreation. Information: 308appointment. Admission free. Handicapped 432-0300. accessible. Information: 308-638-7643.

WALGREN LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA — Located 2 miles east, 3 miles south of Highway 20, legend has it that a Loch Ness-style creature inhabits this unusually tranquil Sandhills Lake, with its tempting camping, fishing, hiking and picnic facilities. Open year round, reser vations are not required. Handicapped accessible, park entr y permit required. Information: 308-7632940.

SIOUX COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM HARRISON — Located on the east side of South Main St. A schoolhouse, post office and countr y store, telephone of fice and home, as well as the main museum tell the stor y of the settling of Sioux County and on into the 20th centur y. Open May 31-Sept. 15, Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is free. Group tours available. Information: 308-668-2166.

SIOUX COUNTY AGATE FOSSIL BEDS NATIONAL MONUMENT HARRISON — Agate Fossil Beds is a 3,055-acre National Park located near Harrison, Neb. on the Niobrara River and includes upper Niobrara River wetlands set in a high plains ecosystem. The fossil beds were once par t of “Captain” James H. Cook’s Agate Springs Ranch and where mammal fossils dating back some 20 million years, Miocene epoch, were found in a bonebed. The ranch was also known as a gathering place for Oglala Lakota Sioux and Chief Red Cloud. The visitor center features a collection of American Indian ar tifacts reflective of the time period between the 1880s and the early 1900s, paleontology exhibits and a 12-minute movie, The Fossil Hills, available with closed captions. Two hiking trails, the Fossil Hills trail and the Daemonelix trail visit the historic dig sites and Daemonelix burrows.

There is an entrance fee of $3 for one person or $5 for a vehicle (good for seven days), under 16 free. Interagency Annual, Age and Access passes are accepted and sold at the information desk as well as the $15 tri-park pass good at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, Scotts Bluf f National Monument and For t Laramie National Historic Site.

OGLALA NATIONAL GRASSLAND —

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20 DISCOVER US

Agate Fossil Beds

Oregon Trail Days Parade

CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 1—Linedrives and Lipstick: Women’s Baseball dating back to the mid-1800s. CSC Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center through May 25, Chadron.

1—- 3rd Annual Jump, Jive, and Swing Concert Gering Civic Center 4:45.

1— Brandt Blacksmith Shop open at FARM. 1 — Spring up the Bluffs, Relay, Scotts Bluff National Monument.

1—-United Way of Western Nebraska “May Day 5K Walk/Run 2pm. Lander Soccer Complex.

2 —- KCMI Radio Christian Concert. 7 p.m. Midwest Theatre.

6 — Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Royalty Pageant, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Gering and Los Guadalupanos.

6 — Green Valley Homesteaders “Jam Session”.

6 — West Nebraska Arts Center opening, 6-8 p.m. 106 East 18th Street, Scottsbluff.

Ken Pledger Art Exhibit showing through May 29.

6 — Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast Gering Civic Center, 6:45-8 a.m.

6-7 — Kimball High School Musical.

7 — Summit Christian College Summit to Summit - community walk/run or ride the shuttle. Start at the College at 21st and U St., Gering to the top of the Monument. Start: Runners-8am. Walkers-Open start from 9noon. Health screening, refreshments and prizes. $15/adults over 16. $10/6-16 and $5/5 & under. Includes T-shirt.

7 — Cinco de Mayo Parade, 10 a.m. 19th and East Overland. Cinco De Mayo Festival 11 a.m. at Guadalupe Center.

7 — Midwest Theater Celebrates 65th Anniversary & Patronage Appreciation Day. Morning concert, movie matinee and evening film.

7 — Catfish Classic Tournament, Kingsley Dam at Lake McConaughy west to the Oshkosh Bridge over the North Platte River.

7 — Western Histor y Center Benefit Auction, Lincoln Community Center, Torrington.

7-8 — Monument Mall “Craft Show”.

7-8 — Tri-State Motocross, Kimball.

11-Sidney Goldrush Days.

14 — Terr y McCormick Memorial Walleye Tournament, Lake McConaughy.

14 — Antelope Valley Pheasants Forever Banquet, Oshkosh.

14 — Free Fishing and Park Entry Day, Oshkosh.

15 — Cabelas Walleye Tournament, Lake

DISCOVER US 21 McConaughy Launching from Divers Bay. 15 —- Rocket Launch, 2 p.m., Goshen County Extension office, 4H rockets, Torrington.

15 — Keep Scottsbluff/Gering Beautiful annual Pharmaceutical Take Back, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Plaza Foods, Avenue B. & South Beltline Highway, Scottsbluff.

19 — Midwest Theater Community Cinema, Welcome to Shelbyville. 7 p.m.

21 — Wildcat Hills, 8K race, Wildcat Hills Nature Center.

21 — Local Habitat Tour “Wildflower Walk” or Pine & Cedar Tree Thinning Wildcat Hills register: 308-428-3062.

21 — Western Nebraska Bass Tournament, Lake McConaughy.

21 — 5th annual Fishing Tournament & Kids Free Fishing Derby, Kimball.

21-22 — Shut Up & Fish Walleye Tournament, Lake McConaughy.

22 — Tri-State Motocross, Alliance.

26 — Histor y & Demonstration of Cannons, 7 p.m. Western History Center, Lingle.

28 — The Bald Mountain Rounders, Fort Robinson Playhouse.

28-30 — Camp Clarke Raiders Spring Rendezvous, Courthouse & Jail Rocks Bridgeport.

June

1-4, 8-11 — Theatre West Presents: Rent, Little Theatre at Western Nebraska Community College, Scottsbluff.

2-5 — Sugar Valley Rally 23rd Anniversar y One of Western Nebraska’s great summer events, start and finish in Scottsbluff and Gering, a precision driving contest for antique cars (pre-1959) that covers hundreds of scenic miles in the North Platte Valley.

22 DISCOVER US

Bald eagle at Chadron State Park

Oregon Trail Days July 14th, 15th, 16th, & 17th!!

Oldest Continuing Celebration in Nebraska & most fun weekend of the summer!

Visit our website for more info.

Escape to Gering to discover landmarks and natural beauty that will captivate and entertain. Golf at the base of Scotts Bluff National Monument, enjoy a movie under the stars at Five Rocks Amphitheater, hike and bike in the Wildcat Hills and experience for yourself Gering's unique Oregon Trail adventures!

Gering Convention & Visitors Bureau 800.245.0717 ~ www.GeringTourism.com

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We are excited to offer you quality, hot, fresh food 7 Days a Week: 6:30 a.m to 7:00 p.m. M-F, 7:30a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sat, 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sundays.

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PHARMACY • Low Prescription Prices • Unique Gifts & Cards • Drive-thru • We support downtown Gering • Friendly Fast Staff & Service • FREE delivery in Scottsbluff & Gering • FREE Prescription Mail-out • Your Hometown Pharmacy

1400 10TH STREET, GERING • 436-2181 Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00-6:00 • Sat 9:00-5:00

Serving the Gering Community for over 120 Years! www.geringcourier.com

Gering China House Lunch Buffet (7 days a week) 11am-2pm

These Gering Merchants Hope You Have An Enjoyable and Safe Visit to the Gering, Nebraska area.

Dinner Buffet Friday & Saturday Only 5-8pm

1516 10th Street Gering, Nebraska

308-436-5669

SCOTTSBLUFF/GERING

CHADRON

Regional West Medical Center (308) 635-3711 Emergency 911

Chadron Community Hospital (308) 432-5586 Emergency 911

BRIDGEPORT

ALLIANCE

Hospital/Emergency Questions (308) 262-1616 Emergency 911

Box Butte General Hospital 308-762-6660 Emergency 911

NIOBRARA CO. SHERIDAN CO.

DAWES CO.

SIOUX CO.

CHADRON COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

GOSHEN CO. BOX BUTTE GENERAL HOSPITAL

BANNER HEALTH COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

TORRINGTON

BOX BUTTE CO. REGIONAL WEST MEDICAL CENTER

ALLIANCE

SCOTTSBLUFF

MORRILL COUNTY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

GARDEN CO. OSHKOSH

SCOTTSBLUFF CO.

Wyoming

BRIDGEPORT

BANNER CO.

GARDEN COUNTY HEALTH SERVICES

LARAMIE CO. MEMORIAL HEALTH CENTER

KIMBALL CO.

POISON CONTROL CENTER 800-955-9119 SIDNEY

Memorial Health Center (308) 254-5825 www.MemorialHealthCenter.org Emergency 911

CHEYENNE CO.

DEUEL CO.

OSHKOSH

Garden County Health Services 1100 West 2nd Street, Oshkosh, NE (308) 772-3283 www.gchealth.org

TORRINGTON

Banner Health Community Hospital (308) 532-4181 www.bannerhealth.com/torrington Emergency 911

Our hospitals care about you

DISCOVER US 27

Fort Laramie town sign

Longhorns at the Farm And Ranch Museum

St. Paul Lutheran Church

Presbyterian Church of Kimball

506 Main Street Bridgeport, Nebraska 69336

600 W. 7th St • Kimball, NE 69145

Pastor Allen K. Strawn

Sunday Worship - 9:00 am Sunday School & Adult Bible Study - 10:30 am Wednesday Bible Study - 9:30 am

Handicapped Accessible Worship Services: 10:30am every Sunday Coffee & Fellowship following Pastor: Dr. Alan Foutz, CLP Church School: Sept. - May 9:30 - 10:30am, all ages

Faith Lutheran Church

Gering Zion Church

Missouri Synod

11th & O Street Gering, Nebraska Phone: 308-436-2788

2055 U Street, Gering

436-4307 Sunday Worship 9:00a.m Sunday School 10:15a.m.

Christian Education classes during school year Wednesdays 7:00-8:30p.m.

Richard H. Neugebauer, Pastor

Sunday Worship Service 9:30am Pastor Paul Hebbert Associate Pastor Tim Hebbert

FEDERATED CHURCH

1451 Center Avenue, Mitchell, NE (308) 623-1933 Pastor Dr. Charles H. Richardson

Adult Sunday School – 9:30 am Worship Service- 10:30 am

United Methodist Church - Morrill Franklin St. Morrill, NE 308-247-2216

EMMANUEL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

301 W. 40th Street, Scottsbluff NE

632-4545 Sunday Worship Prayer Time - 9am Sunday School (all ages) - 9:30am Praise & Worship - 10:30 am Children’s Church “Noah’s Park” - 10:30am

WORSHIP ~ 10:00AM BIBLE STUDY ~ THURS. 7:00PM PASTOR RICHARD REISIG

Pastors John Adams and Rick Parker

First Presbyterian Church

Salem Congregational Church

101 E. 20th St. - Scottsbluff, NE

2001 7th Ave, Scottsbluff 308-632-4748

10:15 a.m. - Sunday Worship thru May 22 9:00 a.m. - Summer Worship Starting May 29

308-632-2131

8:45am Contemporary Service Wednesday: 9:45am Sunday School 6:15pm Awana 10:00am Adult Class (Chapel) 7:00pm Bible Study 10:45am Sunday Worship Service (Chapel) Pastor Dale Brown • Associate Pastor Doug Rupp

Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish La Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe

1102 12th Avenue • Scottsbluff (308) 632-2845 Mass Schedule/Horario de Misas Saturday/Sábado 5PM English Sunday/Domingo 8AM English 11AM Español at Guadalupe Center

Weekday Masses: Tue./Thurs./Fri 8:00AM Wed. 5:30PM

St. James Lutheran Church (LCMS) Proclaiming God’s Word

1 1 0 0 2 2 Y Y e e Ave & 14th Street a Corner of 12th a Scottsbluff r r 632-8001 s Sunday Worship s 10:30 AM Pastor Ralph Morris

BIBLE BAPTIST CHURCH “Just because you’re away from home, doesn’t mean you have to be away from family.”

Our church is like church used to be. The preaching, the teaching, the singing and the warmth of our services honor God and touch the heart.

COME ON IN! 9:15 AM 10:30 AM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM

Sunday School for all ages Worship Service Family Hour Wednesday Prayer & Study

Pastor Mike Clement 2023 Ave. C, Scottsbluff / 635-1507

Calvary Lutheran Church 17 E. 27th St., Scottsbluff Saturday Worship 5:30pm Sunday Worship 8:00 & 10:30am Sunday Summer Schedule 9:30am Pastor Brad Brauer

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DISCOVER US 31

3—West Nebraska Arts Center Presents “Nancy Forney & Carolyn Sorensen Art Exhibit, 6-8pm, opening reception. Shows through June 26.

3 — First Campfire Program, Ranger Campfire, Scotts Bluff National Monument.

3-5 — Camp Clarke Days, Bridgeport.

4 — Wyoming’s FREE Fishing Day! Residents & non-residents of any age can fish Wyoming’s public waters without a license or conservation stamp.

4 — Go Fish Kids Fishing Clinic and Water Expo, Lake Ogallala, Fishing, Boating Safety, Paddle Sports.

4 — Western Nebraska Regional Airport “Airport Appreciation Day” 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

4 — West NE All-Star Game “27th Annual Volleyball Game” Cougar Palace 4 — West NE All-Star Game “34th Annual Football Game” Bearcat Stadium 4-5 — 30th Annual Sugar Valley Arts and Crafts Festival.

4-5 —- The Sisters Grimm Barn Art Show and Poetry Competition. 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Reading by M. Timothy Nolting, Music by Deb Carpenter-Nolting 1598 RD 34 N, Bushnell 308360-1263.

3-5 — 385 Cruisers Thunder on the Prairie Rod Run, Central Park, Alliance.

4 — Annual Beef Cook-off, Oshkosh.

5 — Third Annual Ranch Rodeo, Kimball/Banner County.

5 — Annual Beef Cook-off, 17 Ranch Winery, Main Street, Lewellen.

5 — Music and the Monument: Torrington Fiddlers, 7 p.m., Scotts Bluff National Monument.

5-6 — Sugar Valley Arts and Crafts Festival, Frank Park, Scottsbluff.

7 —- Scotts Bluff National Monument, Dr. Munkres 7 pm.

8-18 —- National Pony Express Association 2011 Pony Express “Re-ride”.

9 — Midwest Theater Summer Matinee Madness 2011 “Ramona & Breezus”, 1:30 p.m., p.m., Scottsbluff.

9-12 — 4-H Horse Camp, Fort Robinson State Park.

10 — Annual Beef Cookoff, Oshkosh.

10 — Fort Robinson Post Playhouse: Hank Williams-Lost Highway.

10 — Campfire Program, Ranger Campfire, Scotts Bluff National Monument 10 — Buffalo Canyon Retreat, annual Outdoor Christian Fellowship & Countr y Gospel Music Jamboree, Oshkosh.

11-12 — Colorado Walleye Assoc. Walleye Tournament, Lake McConaughy.

11 —- Scotts Bluff National Monument 2011 Pony Express “Re-ride” late morning.

10-12 — 10th annual Intertribal Gathering & Powwow at Fort Robinson State Park, Crawford.

11-13 — Sidney: Gold Rush Days: Frontier village, arts and crafts, entertainment, square dancing, shoot-out, chuckwagon cookout and activities for young and old.

11 — Banner County Historical Days, Harrisburg.

11 — 11th Annual Gering Merchants Association “Arts Festival”.

11-12 — Hemingford Fun Days.

12 — Music and the Monument: Mar y Harris, Scotts Bluff Monument 7 p.m.

16 — Midwest Theater Midwest Summer Matinee Madness 2011 “Megamind 1:30 p.m., p.m., Scottsbluff.

17 — Campfire Program, Ranger Campfire, Scotts Bluff National Monument.

17-18 — Ash Hollow Pageant, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Quilt & Art Show. 5-6:30pm, Chuck Wagon Supper. 6:30pm, “Blazing the Oregon Trail — Adventures of 1843.” Ash Hollow State Historical Park, 3 miles southeast of Lewellen on Highway 26. Bring own folding chairs.

Handicap accessible. Call 308-778-5548 or volunteersofamerica@embarqmail.com.

17-19 — Fort Laramie National Historic Site Fur Trade Days, Fort Laramie, Wyo. 17-19 — Fort Laramie Rendezvous (Father’s Day weekend), Fort Laramie, Wyo. 18 — Chadron State Park 90th Anniversary, Chadron.

18—Father/Son Fishing Tournament, Ogallala Optimist Club, Lake McConaughy.

18 — Festival of Hope — Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds in Mitchell.

19 — Music At Monument, Martin Gilmore Scotts Bluff Monument, 7 p.m.

21 — Tuesday Evening Series Maurine Roller 7 pm Scotts Bluff National Monument.

21 — Carhenge Summer Solstice, 2.5 miles north of Alliance on Highway 87.

32 DISCOVER US

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

22-25, 28, 39, July 1, 2 — Theatre West Presents “The Complete History of America (abridged)” 1601 E. 27th, Scottsbluff.

23 —- Midwest Theater, Community Cinema, Two Spirits, 7:30 p.m.

23 —- Local Habitat Tour “Prescribed Burning & Diverse Seeding Results”. 1 p.m. at NRD 1000547 Airport Rd. Scottsbluff.

24 — Post Playhouse opening performance of “Forever Plaid” Fort Robinson State

Park, Crawford.

24 — Campfire Program, Ranger Campfire, Scotts Bluff National Monument.

24 — Crawford Community Yard Sale.

24-26 — Circle The Bluffs Powwow, Western Nebraska Community College.

25 — Theatre West Nineteenth annual Garden Walk fundraiser 25 —- FARM Oregon Trail Tractor Ride; history of Polka and Dutch Hops.

Copperfield Books 1716 Broadway, Scottsbluff 308-632-3000 • 1-800-658-4229 www.booksbycopperfield.com

Maps, Magazines, Books, Booklights, and Books on CD to take on your travels this summer!

We also have Melissa & Doug toys!

Check Us Out on Facebook!

Create New Memories In The Heart Of Downtown Scottsbluff www.hanlonhouse.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DISCOVER US 33

25 — Farm and Ranch Museum Oregon Trail Tractor Ride, Gering.

25 — OWT Rodeo Queen & Princess Contest and Coronatio (Speech and modeling CHS, 8 a.m. horsemanship, 11 a.m. modeling, 2 p.m.

Interviews).

26 —- Music and the Monument Scotts Bluff National Monument 7 p.m.

27-July 1 — Annual NUMB Circle Bicycle Tour of Nebraska, Ogallala.

27-28 —Tropical Dreams Regatta at Lake

Mac Conaughy.

27 — Music at the Monument: Martin Gilmore, Scotts Bluff National Monument 7 p.m.

28 — Barb Netherland, Wounded Knee, Scotts Bluff National Monument 7 p.m.

28 — Post Playhouse opening performance of “Mar velous Wonderettes” For t Robinson State Park, Crawford.

30 — Midwest Theater, Summer movie, Despicable Me, 1:30.

1719 Broadway, Scottsbluff 632-6407 ~ treehouseinteriors@yahoo.com

Buy & Sell Quality Antiques & Estates Furniture • Collectibles Glassware • Depression Glass Old Crocks • Cookie Jars Kitchen Collectibles 1907 Broadway, Scottsbluff, NE

308-632-4600

34 DISCOVER US July 1 — West Nebraska Ar t Center: President’s Show open to the public. Show runs through July 31.

1 — Ranger Campfire Program, Scotts Bluff National Monument, Fridays through Labor Day. 1-2 — Theatre West Presents “The Complete Histor y of America” (abridged) 1601 E. 27th, Scottsbluff.

1-4 — Annual Western & Wildlife Ar t Show, Fort Robinson State Park, Crawford.

2-3 — Crawford’s 125th Anniversar y, Rodeo, Western Art Show - Fort Robinson State Park.

2-3 — Ride the Ridge, 9 a.m. start, south of Chadron State Park.

4 — Fireworks viewing atop Scotts Bluff National Monument. Hike up starting at 7:15 p.m. and must be down by 10:30 p.m.

4 — Fireworks display in Torrington.

4 — Fireworks display in Scottsbluff.

4 — Annual Old Fashioned July Fourth Celebration, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., For t Laramie National Historic Site, For t Laramie, Wyo. 4 — Fourth of July Cookout at High Plains Homestead, home of the Drifter Cookshack.

4 — Fourth of July events in Kimball.

4 — Annual 4th of July Celebration/Picnic — Fort Robinson.

5-11 — Fur Trade Celebration & 125th Anniversar y Celebration, Chadron.

7 — Midwest Theater Summer Matinee Madness Movie: How to Train Your Dragon 1:30 p.m., Scottsbluff.

7-9 — Theatre West Presents: Working, 1601 E. 27th, Scottsbluff.

8-9 — Potter Mellerdrama, Potter.

8-9 — Alliance, Box Butte County, Heritage Days Rodeo.

8 or 9 — Best of America by Horseback, Farm And Ranch Museum, Gering.

8 — Ranger Campfire Program, Scotts Bluff National Monument, 8 p.m. Fridays through Labor Day. 8 — Post Playhouse opening performance of “Spelling Bee” Fort Robinson State Park, Crawford.

9-10 — Hobie Fleet 61 Sailboat Regatta, Lake McConaughy, East Side of Theis Bay 9-10 — Tropical Dreams Regatta at Lake McConaughy.

12 — Lauren Pospisil, Transcon Telegraph Scotts Bluff National Monument, 7 p.m.

14-18 — Oregon Trail Days, Gering, Celebration activities include parades, an art show, chili cook-off, carnival, craft show, and much more.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 15 — Midwest Theater Summer Matinee Madness Movie: Kung Fu Panda 1:30 p.m., Scottsbluff.

15 — Ranger Campfire Program, Scotts Bluff National Monument, 8 p.m. Fridays through Labor Day. 16 — Horse Creek Rendezvous, Morrill.

16 — Crazy Days! Torrington.

16 —- One Summer Day, 10 a.m., Fort Laramie, Wyo. Parade, free children’s games with prizes, street dance with live band in the evening.

18 — Summit Christian College hosts Golf Tournament, Scottsbluff Countr y Club.

18 — Platte Valley Dirt Riders “Super Cross Races” — south of Mitchell.

20-23, 27-30 — Theatre West Summer Repertor y All Shook Up!l — Little Theatre at Western Nebraska Community College, Scottsbluff.

21 — Midwest Theater Summer Matinee Madness Movie Nanny McPhee Returns, 1:30 p.m. Scottsbluff.

22-25 — Monument Mall Sidewalk Sales, Scottsbluff.

22 — Post Playhouse opening performance of “Broadway a Cabaret” Fort Robinson State Park, Crawford.

We can help with...

Propane, Fuel, Camper Dump, Tires, Oil Changes, Car Repair and Groceries

Plaza Foods 401 South Beltline Hwy 308-632-5303

Mr. Tire Car & Truck Center 401 South Beltline Hwy 308-632-5307

Plaza Ampride

Northgate Ampride

Ave B & So. Beltline Hwy 308-632-5302

Ave B & Hwy 26 308-635-3302

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Park, Crawford.

23-30 — Morrill County Fair and Rodeo, Bridgeport.

24 — F.ort Laramie Creatures of the Night, 5-10 p.m., Fort Laramie National Historic Site, 965 Gray Rocks Road, Fort Laramie, Wyo. Bring a picnic dinner and learn about various creatures that are active during the night. Activities include bat viewing, live raptors, games and nature walks.

24 — 31 Cheyenne County Fair & Rodeo 26 — Canal Company, Tuesday series Scotts Bluff National Monument, 7 p.m.

26 — 28 Oregon Trail Championship, Scottsbluff Country Club.

28 — Free Community Ag Appreciation Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., Goshen County Fairgrounds Rendezvous Center, Highway 26 West, Torrington.

28 — Goshen County Fair Day Parade, Main Street, Torrington.

29 — Ranger Campfire Program, Scotts Bluff National Monument, 8 p.m. Fridays through Labor Day. 29 — Aug 5 — Dawes County Fair, Chadron Fairgrounds.

29 — Sioux County Beef Show, Harrison.

DISCOVER US 35 29-Aug. 7 — Scotts Bluff County Fair Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds, Mitchell.

30 — Thanks with Franks sidewalk sale, Sidney.

30 —- 3rd Annual Dam Run, 5K/1mile walk/run at Lake McConaugh.

30 —- 22nd Annual Kites and Castles, Sand Castle & Kite Flying Contests, Martin Bay, Lake McConaughy.

30 — Peabody Hale Fiddlers Contest, Crawford City Park.

30-31 — Cabela’s Tent Sale, Sidney.

30-31 — Scotts Bluff County Fair NSRA Rodeo.

30-31 — PVDR Supercross Races, Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds, Mitchell.

31 — Scotts Bluff County Fair Pageant.

August 1 — Scotts Bluff County Fair Gospel Concert, Mitchell.

1-6 — Goshen County Fair, Torrington, Wyo. 1-6 — Dawes County Fair, Chadron Fairgrounds (July 30).

36 DISCOVER US

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

1-9 — Box Butte County Fair, Hemingford.

2 — Connie McKinnney, Wildflowers of the Wildcat Hills. Scotts Bluff National Monument, 7 p.m.

2-5 — Garden County Fair and Rodeo, Lewellen.

3-7 — Sioux County Fair, Harrisson.

5 — Ranger Campfire Program, Scotts Bluff National Monument, 8 p.m. Fridays through Labor Day. 5-9 — Kimball-Banner County Fair in Kimball.

6 — Fourth Annual Jason Vesper Memorial Golf Classic.

6 — Lost Creek Music Festival, Garden County.

7 — Sioux County Demolition Derby Sioux County Fair and Rodeo, Harrison Nebraska.

9 — Western Sugar, Scotts National Bluff Monument, 7 p.m.

9-14 —- Keith County Fair.

12 — Ranger Campfire Program, Scotts Bluff National Monument, 8 p.m. Fridays through Labor Day. 13-14 — Greek Festival, 4:30-10:30 p.m.

Saturday. Prairie Winds Community Center, 424 N. Main Str. Bridgeport. Food booths, local Athenian Dancers, Greek music. Booths open until 8pm. Traditional Sunday buffet, 12 -1:30pm, dancers, music, auction, 50-50 raffle. Event will end at 3 p.m.

15 — Fort Laramie annual Moonlight Tour, 7 p.m., Fort Laramie National Historic Site, Fort Laramie, Wyo. Visitors will see many characters associated with the rich history of Fort Laramie.

15-16 — Living History Military Weekend, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Fort Laramie Historic Site, Fort Laramie, Wyo. 16 — Union Pacific Scotts Bluff Monument, 7 p.m.

19 — Ranger Campfire Program, Scotts Bluff National Monument.

19-21 — Bayard Chimney Rock Pioneer Days, Bayard.

21 — Scotts Bluff County Fair Demolition

Derby — Mitchell.

25 —- Comedy Night & Beer Tasting, 6 p.m. at the Rendezvous Center, Torrington.

26 — Ranger Campfire Program, Scotts Bluff National Monument, 8 p.m. Fridays through Labor Day. 27-28 — Hay Springs Friendly Festival.

27-29 — Banner County Fair.

Wave Pool, Six Water Slides, Lazy River & more!

September 2- 4 —- Hobie Fleet 61 Sailboat Regatta, Lake McConaughy, East Side of Theis Bay. 2-5 — Northwest NE Rock Swap, Crawford City Park. Buy, sell, swap rocks, minerals, fossils, no charge for dealers, free camping, lectures, field trips.

3 — Historical Society Crawford History Day at the Downtown Museum.

3-5 — Camp Clarke Raiders Fall Rendevouz.

3-5 — Potter Days.

3-5 — Old Settler Days, Lodgepole.

3-5 — Mac Attack Regatta at Lake McConaughy.

4-6 — Governor’s Cup Sailboat Regatta, Lake McConaughy.

5 — Blue Water Blues Festival, 17 Ranch Winery, Main Street, Lewellen.

5-10 — American Paint Horse Trail Ride, Fort Robinson State Park, Crawford.

7-8 — FARM Hands on History.

10 — Septemberfest, 4-11 p.m., Goshen County Fairgrounds Rendezvous Center, Highway 26 West, Torrington.

10-11 — Willow Tree Festival, Gordon.

10-11 — Lisco Days Celebration, Lisco.

14-18 — Arabian Horse Trail Ride, Fort Robinson State Park, Crawford.

16-18 — Fall Festival, Oshkosh 27th Annual Indian Summer Rendezvous, Ogallala.

16-18 — Dalton Fall Festival in Dalton.

17 — VOCAIR Flying Club’s annual fly-in COUPON

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DISCOVER US 37

breakfast, Sidney.

17 — Scotts Bluff Valley “Fiber Arts Fair 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Scottsbluff County Fairgrounds, 130625 Country Rd East, Mitchell.

17 — Comedy Night 2010, Beer Tasting & Silent Auction. Presented by Community Healthcare Foundation. (307) 532-4181.

Goshen County Fairgrounds Rendezvous Center, Highway 26 West, Torrington.

18 — FARM presents John Conlee Concert at Five Rocks Amphitheater.

18-19 — Farm And Ranch Museum Harvest Festival XllI, Gering.

23-24 — Goshen County Quilt Show, fairgrounds, Torrington, Wyo. 24 — Farmers Day in Kimball.

24-25 — Dobby’s Frontier Town Fall Festival, Alliance.

24-26 — 16th annual Goshen County Quilt Show, Goshen County Fairgrounds Rendezvous Center, 7078 Fairgrounds Road, Highway 26 West, Torrington.

25 — History in Action Days, Dawes County Historical Museum, 1-5 p.m.

29 — Voecks Meade Trail Ride, Fort Robinson.

30 — Oktoberfest, Cruisin’ Class Rod & Roll show, and Har vest Time Crafts Show — Sidney.

hour. 6:30pm, dinner. Gering Civic Center.

20 — Holiday Craft and Gift Show, Oshkosh.

20 — Fireman’s Ball, Goshen County Fairgrounds, 7078 Fairgrounds Rd. (Highway 26 West), Torrington, Wyo. 21 — Fort Robinson longhorn and buffalo sale, Crawford Livestock Market.

22 — Christmas Craft Show and decorating party - Lodgepole.

26 — Old Fashioned Christmas and Lamplight Tours, Sidney.

26 — Christmas Diorama in Hemingford.

27 — Holiday Bazaar, Goshen County Fairgrounds, Torrington, Wyo. 27 — Motocross, Goshen County Fairgrounds Pavilion, 7078 Fairgrounds Road (Highway 26 West), Torrington, Wyo. 27 — Fall Fish Fr y, American Legion Hall, Lisco.

27 — Gering Merchants Christmas Kick Off Parade and opening of Santa’s Village in the Civic Center parking lot, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

27 — Mitchell Christmas lighting ceremony.

28 — Scottsbluff Parade of Lights.

29 — City of Lights Christmas Parade in Minatare.

October

1 — Kiwanis Family Fun Day at FARM. 2 — Operation Christmas Child Penny Carnival & Live Music, 7pm, carnival. 4-5:30 p.m., First Baptist Church Annex.

8 — Old West Weekend Band Competition, Downtown Scottsbluff.

28-29 — Annual Fall Craft Show, Crawford Community Center.

November

.

5 — North Platte Valley Artist’s Guild Holiday Art Show & Sale, 6 —8 p.m. Public viewing through December 30, West Nebraska Arts Center, 106 East 18th Street, Scottsbluff.

6 — Holiday Craft & Food Expo, Gering Civic Center.

6 — Hometown Radio 27th annual “Old West Weekend Choir Festival” Scottsbluff, choirs from around the area will compete at the Scottsbluff High School.

11 — Platte Valley Attractions Meeting, Riverside Zoo/ Discover y Center. Noon.

11 — Veterans Day Parade, 10-11 a.m., Main Street Torrington.

18 — St. Agnes School “Gala”6 p.m. social

At WEL-Life at Scottsbluff, we offer you personalized assistance with: • Assisted Living Needs • Short Term Stays/Respite • Hospice Care • Home Assistance • Congregate Care

For an informative tour of our facility, please call us today.

308.632.1760

617 W. 33rd St., Scottsbluff, NE

38 DISCOVER US

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

December 2 — Parade of Lights, Alliance.

3 — Light up the Fort, Crawford.

3 — Holiday Homecoming, Hemingford.

3 — Farm And Ranch Museum “High Plains Christmas”, Gering.

3 — Christmas Parade, Main Street Torrington.

3 — Parade of Lights, Alliance. Gering Merchants Santa Village in the Civic Center parking lot, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas Season 3 — Christmas on the Prairie in the visitor center at Scotts Bluff National Monument.

3 — Trees Along the Trail, North Platte Valley Museum, Gering.

4 — Old Fashioned Christmas, Potter.

4-11 — Tree and Wreath Festival, Alliance.

7 — Br ule Hometown Holiday Open House.

8-11 — Goshen County 2-Shot Goose Hunt, fairgrounds, Torrington, Wyo. 17 — Annual Fort Robinson State Park Historical Christmas Dinner

Corbin Conroy dances at a powwow in Fort Robinson

Free samples or buy a glass of our wine Dry, Sweet, Dessert or Sparkling • Gift Baskets • Gift Items • Shipping

1463 17TH Avenue Mitchell, NE 308-623-2955

The Biggest Screen • The Best Sound Featuring Sony Dynamic Digital Sound

www.msmtheatres.com

DISCOVER US 39

Toadstool Park

Baker & Associates

Oregon Trail Days Parade waiting for candy

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK April 1 - October 10 9:30AM - 4:30PM

SPLASH PAD & ZOO (nearly 200 animals: Chimpanzees, Tigers, Zebra, Bison, Monkeys, Petting Zoo & more) Children’s Museum & Natural History Musem to be added with the new Construction

www.RiversideDiscoveryCenter.org

308-630-6236

Chadron cattle drive

1600 South Beltline Hwy. West PO Box 2321 • Scottsbluff, NE info@riversidediscoverycenter.org

40 DISCOVER US

Timothy Rudy at the Scotts Bluff County Fair

When in Kimball...

Shop with us for your camping, groceries and travel supplies

103 South Howard • 308-235-2834

An artists paints a picture from a photograph during Oregon Trail Days

Main Street Market 815 East 3rd Street 308-235-3272

DISCOVER US 41

Little girl walking by the gate of the Kiwanis Corn Maze by Gering

D AND B FINE FURNITURE Quality Service ... Quality Products FURNITURE, BED & BATH 2007 Main • Torrington 307-532-2514

www.msmtheatres.com

42 DISCOVER US

Lady Santas in the Christmas parade in Torrington

Welcome to the

West Make Hampton Inn & Suites in Scottsbluff your base camp while exploring western Nebraska. We offer value-minded travelers comfortable and well-equipped rooms. Featuring 81 rooms, conference center, extended complimentary breakfast bar, wireless Internet, pool, spa and airport shuttle.

Close to shopping areas and restaurants.

301 W. Highway 26 • Scottsbluff, NE

We can help with...

Propane, Fuel, Camper Dump, Tires, Oil Changes, Car Repair, Park Permits, Picnic Supplies & Refreshments.

Bridgeport Ampride & Godfather’s Express 308-262-0827

Hwy 92 & US 385

1-800-HAMPTON • 308-635-5200

Bridgeport Station

702 Main Street 308-262-0115

DISCOVER US 43

Horse-drawn wagon going through the Valley

Nebraska’s 1st Christmas Box Angel, surrounded by 4-foot granite memory walls and reflection benches, is located in Sidney’s Living Memorial Gardens. The Angel of Hope and Living Memorial Gardens offer a beautiful, peaceful setting, dedicated to loved ones lost too soon. If you look closely, you will find the word “HOPE” hidden in the Angel’s right wing.

For more information, visit

nebraska.angelofhope.info or call the Cheyenne County Visitor’s Center at

866-545-4030 or 308-254-4030

44 DISCOVER US

Bluegrass music in Bayard

We can help with...

Propane, Fuel, Tires, Oil, Repairs and Groceries

Main Street Market 1542 South Main, Torrington 307-532-3401

Torrington Station Hwy 26 West, Torrington 307-532-4118

DISCOVER US 45

Sidney Angel of Hope

46 DISCOVER US

Old Bedlam at Fort Laramie National Historic Site

Wind turbines north of Kimball

DISCOVER US 47

Biking past the Scotts Bluff National Monument

Don Parmenter & Max Cawiezel in front of Chimney Rock

CAMPGROUNDS TORRINGTON GOSHEN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS - (307) 532-2525 PIONEER MUNICIPAL PARK - (307) 532-5666 CITY SLICKERS RV PARK - (307) 850-6923

FORT LARAMIE 20 miles west of Torrington on Hwy 26 CHUCKWAGON RV PARK - (307) 837-2828 PONY SOLDIER RV PARK - (307) 837-3078 SOUTH CITY PARK CAMPGROUND - (307) 837-2711

LINGLE 10 miles west of Torrington on Hwy 26 BROTT’S RV PARK - (307) 837-2299 or (307) 575-0859

HAWK SPRINGS 32 miles south of Torrington on Hwy 85 STATE RECREATION AREA - (307) 777-7011 or (307) 836-2334

LODGING TORRINGTON AMERICA'S BEST VALUE INN - (307) 532-7118 or (866) 506-8181 BLUE LANTERN MOTEL - (307) 532-8999 DAYS INN - (307) 532-4011 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS - (307) 532-7600 or 1-800-HOLIDAY GRANDMA'S INN - (307) 532-4064

FORT LARAMIE REAL MCCOY MOTEL - (307) 837-2100 or (307) 575-2669

BED & BREAKFASTS LAGRANGE THE BEAR CREEK INN - (307) 834-2398

TORRINGTON TEA KETTLE RANCH BED & BREAKFAST - (307) 532-5375 COUNTRY VILLA GUEST HOUSE - (307) 532-7414 or (307) 575-1188