Thank you.

Join us on the Pledge of Allegiance.

I pledge to the flag of the United States of America.

And district for which it stands.

One nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all.

In accordance with section 841412, the Nebraska revised statute, a current copy of the Open Meetings Act is available for you, and it's posted on the wall of the Council Chambers.

You take roll, please.

Mayor Claus.

Here.

Bush Ketter.

Here.

We are absent.

Nicola?

Here.

Okay.

Oral Communications, we have some proclamations to read.

And so we do have folks here.

We're glad to have you all.

The first one is for the Elks Lodge 984.

And the proclamation, the benevolent and protective order of Elks was designated, has designated May 1 through 7, 2024 as Elk's National Youth Week to honor America's junior citizens for their accomplishments and to give fitting reception to their service to the community, state, and nation.

And whereas Carney Elk's Lodge number 984 will sponsor an observation during that week in tribute to the junior citizens of this community.

And whereas no event could be more deserving of our support and participation than one dedicated to these young people who represent the nation's greatest resource, and who in the years ahead will assume their responsibility for the advancement of our free society.

And whereas our youth need the guidance, inspiration, and encouragement which we can give in order to help or to develop those qualities of character essential for future leadership and go forth to serve America.

And whereas to achieve this worthy objective, we should demonstrate our partnership with our youth, our understanding of their hopes and aspirations, and a sincere willingness to help prepare them in every way for the responsibilities and opportunities of citizenship.

Never therefore be it resolved on behalf of the citizens of Carney, we hereby proclaim May 1 through May 7th, 2024 as Youth Week.

And we urge all departments of government, civic, fraternal, and patriot groups, and our citizens generally to participate wholeheartedly in this urban observance.

Dated this ninth day of April 2024.

Doug just like to say thank you.

I mean, this is one of those things that we do every year, but it's one of the things that we love to do in the Alks nationally.

Have almost a million members.

We have over 300 here.

This year was our best year of donating, giving money back to the community.

We work with law enforcement on our drug take back, both the sheriffs and the city police.

That's coming up here in a couple weeks.

But anything we can do for youth, we appreciate doing it.

This was the first year we had three youth from Kearney that made it to the regional hoop shoot out in Colorado Springs.

And uh Ali Seba will be representing Carney, Nebraska, the whole state of Nebraska at the national hoop shoot April 18th through the 21st.

So you can live stream it.

Um she's a good free throw shooter.

Um follow her, she'll probably be going to Iowa as a hawke idea to help them out.

But again, thank you very much.

We appreciate all your support.

Sure.

That'd be awesome.

Okay.

Thank you very much.

Thank you.

Thanks for having me.

Thank you.

Okay, thank you, Doug.

Um the next one is um the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, and Derek is here, and uh one of his girls might be our next free throw champions.

Uh whereas the small businesses of Kearney area play a vital role in the community, driving innovation, providing employment opportunities, and contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of the Kearney region.

And whereas the entrepreneurial spirit and dedication of small business owners in the Kearney community are commendable as they overcome challenges, pursue their passions, and make significant contributions to the fabric of our society.

And whereas National Small Business Week provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the achievements of small businesses, honoring their hard work, ingenuity, and perseverance in the f in the face of adversity.

And whereas the City of Kearney and the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce are dedicated to supporting and promoting the success of small businesses, advocating for their interests and fostering an environment conducive to their growth and prosperity.

And whereas the collaboration between the City of Kearney and the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce exemplifies our commitment to nurturing a vibrant small business community and ensuring its continued success.

Now be therefore resolved the City Council and the area Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce hereby proclaim April 28th to May 4th, 2024 as Small Business Week in the Kearney area, and would encourage all business citizens to recognize, support, and celebrate the invaluable contributions of small businesses to Kearney's community and economy.

I won't take up much of your time, but um I I will just say Carney's successful because of partnerships.

Um here's another great example, and as you guys know, we love all of our businesses, but small business is really the backbone in the heartbeat of any community, especially Carney.

So thanks for your support.