Exceptional 4-H project honors life of young first responder

Kristen Sindelar
Oct 6, 2025
Oct 6, 2025

National 4-H month 4.jpg — Box Butte County 4-H member Katrina Karell poses in front of the flag she made at the 2025 Nebraska State Fair.
Submitted photo

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The American flag is a valiant symbol of our nation’s values and ideals, as well as a patriotic tribute to our heroes both past and present.

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National 4-H month 1.jpg — Mia Reynolds passed away unexpectedly of a medical emergency Nov. 26, 2024.
Submitted photo

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National 4-H month 2.jpg — A special flag made of firehoses was donated to the Alliance Fire Department by Katrina Karell in remembrance of her cousin Mia. The shadowbox to the right includes a photograph of Mia and her flash hood.
Submitted photo

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National 4-H month 5.jpg — The flag was donated to the Alliance Fire Department during a private ceremony that included Mia’s parents Erin and Jay Dubs, her brothers Ben Reynolds and Tuff Dubs, and Katrina Karell and her mother Christine Karell.
Submitted photo

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National 4-H month 3.jpg — Katrina Karell recycled discontinued firehoses into an American flag.
Submitted photo

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Reporter Kristen Sindelar has loved agriculture her entire life, coming from a diversified farm with three generations working side-by-side in northeastern Nebraska. Reach her at Kristen.Sindelar@midwestmessenger.com.