Researchers and journalists have documented the challenges confronting the nation's rural communities--dwindling populations, few employment opportunities, the opioid crisis, and a lack of public investment. However, there are many rural communities that are surmounting these obstacles and helping their young people build a brighter future. The…

Interviews with educators and community members in a very small rural Nebraska school district suggested causes for the district's exceptionally high superintendent turnover rate: low salary and status, lack of challenge, use of the position as a stepping stone, declining economy and population, community transition, and the superintendent's…

In three rural Nebraska communities experiencing rising inmigration of Hispanic families, newcomers and long-term residents were interviewed concerning personal financial strain; concerns with community issues such as language barriers and interethnic conflict; nutritional habits; and access to health care, education and training, and social…

Every 2 or 3 years, the City of Gering, Nebraska surveys the local community to get citizens' reactions regarding utility rates, public services, professional services, local amenities, housing, business climate, and community improvements. In November 1992, questionnaires were mailed to 3,065 residents, asking them to rate elements of the city on…

In an effort to gather citizens' opinions on utility rates, public service, local amenities, housing, the business climate, and community improvements, the City of Scottsbluff, Nebraska conducted a survey in December 1993. Questionnaires were mailed to 6,313 community residents, asking them to rate elements of the City on a scale of 1…

Examines 3 stabilizing principles of small town organization that are intertwined with the survival of local schools: (1) centripetalism (inwardly focused community involvement); (2) inclusiveness of local associations and activities; and (3) distinctive identity. Discusses the effects of state pro-consolidation policies on rural economic…

In 1988, IBP, the world's largest meat processing firm, announced it would open a beefpacking plant in Lexington, Nebraska. This was part of the latest wave of meatpacking restructuring which moved plants away from urban centers and union strongholds to rural communities. This paper examines community changes accompanying the opening of a large…