Pope Leo XIV has appointed James R. Golka as the next Archbishop of Denver, according to an announcement from Vatican News released Feb. 7, 2026.

Before his rise to national prominence within the Catholic Church, Golka spent 10 years serving in North Platte, a period that marked a significant chapter in his priestly and pastoral career.

Golka was assigned to St. Patrick’s Parish in North Platte in 2006, where he served as pastor until 2016. During that decade, he led parish operations, oversaw parish ministries, and worked closely with families, parishioners, and the parish school as part of the Diocese of Grand Island.

A native of Grand Island, Golka was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Grand Island in 1996. His early ministry included several parish assignments across central and western Nebraska, Alliance &amp; Scottsbluff amongst those stops before his long-term posting in North Platte.

After completing his tenure in North Platte, Golka returned to Grand Island, where he served as rector of the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and later as vicar general for the diocese. In 2021, he was appointed Bishop of Colorado Springs.

His appointment as Archbishop of Denver places him at the helm of one of the largest archdioceses in the United States. The Vatican announcement notes that his installation in Denver is expected to take place later this spring.

For North Platte, Golka’s appointment highlights the role the community played in shaping a church leader whose ministry now extends well beyond Nebraska.

New Archbishop of Denver Spent Decade Serving in North Platte

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. -﻿&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College has announced the students named to the President’s Honor Roll and Dean’s Honor Roll for the Fall 2025 semester.

These academic honors recognize students who demonstrated outstanding scholastic achievement during the semester.

Alliance&nbsp;– Garrett Myers, Chili J. Potmesil, Sunshine S. Quick;&nbsp;Bridgeport&nbsp;– Nathaniel M. Cooper, Hudson DeVos;&nbsp;Chadron&nbsp;– Demaris Kelso;&nbsp;Gering&nbsp;– Marlene A. Aguilera Torres, Savannah Baird, Vanessa Ramos, Jordyn M. Yearling;&nbsp;Gordon&nbsp;– Amanda N. Lootens;&nbsp;Mitchell&nbsp;– Max Avery Lydon;&nbsp;Minatare&nbsp;– Gracia Taffe;&nbsp;Scottsbluff&nbsp;– Ana V. Alarcon Palacios, Maraki F. Andargie, Abbey D. Arntsen, Zavanah B. Chavez, Maya E. Cobos, Alejandra Gonzalez-Orozco, Landen Isaiah Heine, Lucas T. Jones, Julia Matte Dos Santos, Emma Jade Murdoch, Ava Reed, Addison Jane Sell, Allie M. Twamley;&nbsp;Sidney&nbsp;– Nathan B. Christian, Owen D. Onate, McGuire J. Rolls, Hallie W. Southards;&nbsp;Whitman&nbsp;– Abbigail Louise Rath.

Aurora&nbsp;– Kyle S. Morganegg;&nbsp;Grand Junction&nbsp;– Jase R. Satterfield;&nbsp;Greeley&nbsp;– Kenny Tejeda;&nbsp;Johnstown&nbsp;– Nathaniel John Hulsey.

Carpenter&nbsp;– John Henry Ward;&nbsp;Torrington&nbsp;– Owen D. Osmera.

Alliance&nbsp;– Elijah A. Budd, Cody L. Dauel, Tiffany Graham, Diana Kollars, Andrew Hinman, Alessandra Montemayor, Juan Emilio Ponce, Cassondra L. Schreiner, Micheal Scott, Wyatt O. Weiss, Makinley D. Wignall;&nbsp;Bartley&nbsp;– Mitchel G. Stritt;&nbsp;Bayard&nbsp;– Devin R. Broukal;&nbsp;Bridgeport&nbsp;– Jayden Scott Harris-Miller, Brooklynn D. Keim;&nbsp;Chappell&nbsp;– Joshua V. Kler;&nbsp;Cozad&nbsp;– Kye J. Crites, Ryder L. Nichols;&nbsp;Crawford&nbsp;– Rhett D. Flack, Kassyl Swinney;&nbsp;Dalton&nbsp;– Hunter W. Strodtman;&nbsp;Gering&nbsp;– Alyzzia R. Arrellano, Hayden D. Bennett, Christine Castillo, Travis I. Cline, Caden Asher Closson, Jenna E. Davis, Howard A. Downer, Jakob A. Fiet, Nevaeh Michelle Guerin, Jayden Hakert, Trinity Leigh Hedman, Kaylee M. Kinnan, Andrew A. Martinez, Alison Quin Miller, Eve Frances Mosher, Allison E. Ossian, Sienna Osthoff, Jay Austin Peterson, Quinton O. Robbins, Tonya M. Weimer, Jaelyn R. Yetter, Andrew James Yuill;&nbsp;Hastings&nbsp;– Calub R. Clark;&nbsp;Hemingford&nbsp;– Sienna Boerkircher;&nbsp;Kimball&nbsp;– Ryker Beau Behrend, Connor J. Deboodt;&nbsp;Kilgore&nbsp;– Cash Thomas Cooper, Blake Tyler Lancaster;&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;– Cody P. Brockman;&nbsp;Lisco&nbsp;– Makayla E. Keyes;&nbsp;Lincoln&nbsp;– Addisyn Muhr, Brandon O. Renaud, Mason Rix;&nbsp;Minatare&nbsp;– Randi N. Hansen, Ashlyn G. Lopez, Skylynn Sharpe, Justin L. Vanwinkle;&nbsp;Mitchell&nbsp;– Addison J. Beebe, Antonio Casella Bruno, Romello A. Chavez, Sara Lynn Ewing, Ronald A. Francescato, Pryce Damar K., Brayden Lee Schneider, William A. Thomas;&nbsp;Morrill&nbsp;– Quintyn Quevedo;&nbsp;North Platte&nbsp;– Brantz Halouska;&nbsp;Ogallala&nbsp;– Noel L. Voborny;&nbsp;Paxton&nbsp;– Thomas L. Markussen;&nbsp;Scottsbluff&nbsp;– Alvaro Abeal Pou, Katalia K. Adams, Alyssa R. Albaugh, Malissa Rose Armstrong, Ousman Bah, Hayley Christine Blumenschein, Samuel J. Bowlin, Ocean Asare Tasleem Brobbey, Oliver Reid Carpenter, Phillip Frank Chivhunge, John T. Coakley, Dorothy Daharsh, Kayla M. Dreiling, Adison J. Duke, Abigail Dunkel, Mederique William Ozanam Eboucle, Aidyn Michael Einkorn, Patricia Farrier, Reese H. Fleck, Jazmine N. Golden, Xayvian Z. Gonzales, Kennedy Gift Green Malunga, Sarah J. Griess, Heidi N. Groskopf, Bryttny D. Hageman, Filip Halamek, William Harbison, Kellon A. Harris, Owen C. Henderson, Emma Irene Hergenreder, Yediel O. Hernandez-Plaza, Lillian Hohnstein, Hyacinth Claire Ponce Hortaleza, Natalia Huerta, William F. Jacobs, Randall Jacques, Jonathan E. Jerrell, Addisyn Kersenbrock, Ava Kildow, Sean Kim, Brexten F. Kimmel, Kyle T. Kizzire, Jin Kobayakawa, Carter Lathrop, Isaac Carter Leach, Toms Valters Linis, Ruth Ann Lively, Nehemiah D. Loya, Viktor Lukic-Gavric, Juan D. Macias, Juan Francisco Nguema Mangue, Harrison Maser, Jacob Maser, Erica M. Medina, Trayton D. Middleton, Ari G. Miller, Pau Vera Montoya, Diego A. Munoz, Mary Tafadzwa Mutswiri, Tafadzwa Ncube, Hope Chigozirim Ogbonda, Megan C. Peister, Joao Gabriel Pereira Lopes, Cobey S. Pexton, Addyson W. Prilipp, Guadalupe R. Ramirez Nevarez, Da’monique Mae Rodriguez, Jude Kenneth Russell, Onias Sainety, Daniela Cruz Sanchez, Viktoria Sarkanyova, Logan Giacomni Seifarth, Irsa M. Sena, Sandy N. Shimp, Zozefine Liva Sipolina, Taylor W. Slocombe, Gerald Smith, Elennah Noel Soper, Brynn E. Sybrant, Lisa A. Tabe, Lydia E. Tibbals, Sofia G. Torresdey Duarte, Tori Travers, Hilario Vaquera Martinez, Collin M. White, Cooper T. Wilson;&nbsp;Sidney&nbsp;– Amanda M. Bauer, John Stuart Dearmont, Kirstin D. Dougherty, Ross D. Leinart, Xander J. McComb, Kaidence Nicole Murphy, Jared A. Ross, Sadie Smith;&nbsp;Sutherland&nbsp;– Brandon D. Fear;&nbsp;Wakefield&nbsp;– Bradley N. Haglund.

Aurora&nbsp;– Ryan T. Novy, Yohan Park, Elias G. Valdez;&nbsp;Cheyenne Wells&nbsp;– Bryson D. Hyle;&nbsp;Colorado Springs&nbsp;– Chad Hutchins;&nbsp;Julesburg&nbsp;– Axton H. Bosch;&nbsp;Wray&nbsp;– Chad R. Tracy.

Leominster&nbsp;– Anthony Afriyie Ofosu.

Custer&nbsp;– Lincoln Falkenburg Brown.

Cheyenne&nbsp;– Chelsea D. Sigsbury, Ryan E. Thorstensen;&nbsp;Sundance&nbsp;– Trayton D. Middleton;&nbsp;Torrington&nbsp;– Elizabeth E. Flores.

Banjul, Gambia&nbsp;– Muhammed Lamin Bittaye;&nbsp;Daejeon, South Korea&nbsp;– Hyunseo Shin.

WNCC Announces Fall 2025 Honors List

Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department to Host Blood Drive Feb. 11

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: The Steaks Are High

By Nebraska Department of Correctional Services

An inmate who went missing from the Community Corrections Center – Lincoln (CCC-L) has been arrested by the Lincoln Police Department.&nbsp;Sarah Mangloack was taken into custody Feb. 6, 2026, and booked into the Lancaster County Jail.&nbsp;

Mangloack went missing on Feb. 5, 2026, when she left her work detail position in Lincoln and did not return to CCC-L.&nbsp;&nbsp;She started her sentence on Sept. 26, 2025. She was sentenced to three years out of Lancaster County for terrorist threats.

CCC-L is one of two community custody facilities operated by NDCS. Community custody is the lowest custody level and the least restrictive facility. Inmates are allowed to participate in work opportunities, attend school and religious services with prior approval and without direct supervision.

Missing Lincoln Inmate Arrested

Post Podcast: Kman's Concert Calendar, weekend of Feb. 6

By John E. Weare, Keep Alliance Beautiful

ALLIANCE, Neb. -&nbsp;Cardboard gathers no dust at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center. That’s saying something given the amount of dirt that blows through our part of the building on an average day. Once inside, our crew quickly and efficiently compresses corrugated cardboard and fiberboard in two balers from pickups, trailers and totes. There is no room for stockpiling as we have a constant flow – more than 600,000 pounds collected, baled and shipped in 2025.

Recently, I came back to the office and read a note to call Jessica Campbell, a cardboard broker, about buying our most popular material. The message was intriguing since our cardboard had always gone to Western Resources Group (WRG) the seven-plus years I have worked at KAB. I was surprised that somebody was approaching us, maybe representing another sales option?

Upon reaching Jessica on the phone at Centennial Recycling in Aurora, Colo., we soon realized that she already handled our cardboard through a relationship with WRG. “I haven’t had any complaints at the mills,” she said of our bales. “. . . I’ve worked with Western Resources Group for years and years. (We’re) getting the vast majority of their cardboard. Given their volume we’re able to give them more on pricing.”

Centennial is strictly a brokerage. Jessica and her husband operate the business with two other partners. They don’t handle, process or transport recyclables, rather “I’m technically the middleman,” she said. They work with a lot of big mill groups, multi-million dollar companies, that may want 10 million pounds of cardboard at a time. On the other end their services “help out places that would be ignored by big companies,” Jessica commented. “(We’re) here to put it all together so other people can focus on what they’re good at.”

Volumes companies ask for fluctuate a lot, Jessica explained while describing 2025 in particular as “quite a headache”. She said you need a plan A, B, and C, then sometimes a D. Her worst situation is where everyone is full. One major mill was down for months. In the business for 12 years Jessica said she has seen it all – highs and lows.

A couple mills in Oklahoma have been likely destinations for KAB cardboard. The main one produces the cardboard that lines sheetrock. Whether a mill is set up for corrugated or cereal boxes (actually composed of many ultrathin layers) changes the recipe and desired inputs. She also mentioned a paper producer in Wisconsin that had retrofitted a logging mill.

Jessica works with domestic customers and locations saying exporting is not the first or best option.

Cardboard is a key component though Centennial does broker transactions for other materials too. She has worked with Firstar in Omaha on paper and a range of recyclables at WRG. “Metals can fluctuate quickly on a day-to-day basis. I move some tin and aluminum and all grades of plastic – separate and combined.”

At KAB we pay to transport materials. Only three help offset the cost. Milk jugs, undyed High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and aluminum cans are the most valuable earning cash by the pound. Cardboard is sold by the ton. Jessica offered a cautiously optimistic assessment for our patrons’ favorite recyclable. “Cardboard has steadied out a bit. It went down a bit. I hope we turned a corner. Pricing will come up. I don’t know when.”

Who knew that Amazon box needed a little extra help finding its second (third? fourth?) life after leaving Alliance? Thanks middle(wo)man.

COLUMN: Recycling Middlemen Grease The Gears

LINCOLN, Neb. - The University of Nebraska Board of Regents approved the appointment of Katherine S. Ankerson as interim chancellor for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln during a Feb. 6 meeting.

NU President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., tapped Ankerson to serve as interim chancellor following the departure of Rodney Bennett, who served as UNL Chancellor from mid-2023 until January. Prior to stepping into the role of interim chancellor, Ankerson served as UNL’s executive vice chancellor, with previous roles as dean, associate dean and professor in UNL’s College of Architecture.

“Interim Chancellor Ankerson is the right leader for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln at this moment,” said Dr. Gold. “She is extremely collaborative and forward-looking, and I have greatly enjoyed working with her over the past month. I look forward to seeing how the Lincoln campus moves forward and grows stronger under her leadership.”

During the meeting, the board heard a legislative update from Speaker John Arch, who shared an update on the state budget and highlighted the many partnerships between the state and the university over the past decade. He highlighted UNK’s Rural Health Education Building; an investment in pancreatic cancer research at UNMC; construction of an agricultural innovation facility on UNL’s Innovation Campus; and a program to expand internships as examples of collaborative projects between the state and the university that move Nebraska forward.

“I’m grateful for our partnership with the members of our legislature,” said Dr. Gold. “I often say that what is good for the University of Nebraska is good for our state, and I’m proud to work with state leaders who share our vision of a thriving and prosperous Nebraska.”

The board also recognized Sen. Deb Fischer with the National Champion of Science Award for her work to secure major investments for University of Nebraska research initiatives, including funding for precision agriculture, drought mitigation, medical surge capacity, and transportation safety, among others.

“Champions of Science like Sen. Fischer believe that federally funded scientific research conducted at universities is essential to our nation’s future, drives innovation and fuels our economy,” said Regent Robert Schafer, who presented Sen. Fischer with the award.

During his comments to the board, Dr. Gold welcomed Regent Joel Makovicka of Omaha, who Gov. Jim Pillen appointed to the District 4 seat earlier this week. Dr. Gold also highlighted momentum across the NU campuses, including progress on the new Health Science Education Center at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, which after it officially opens later this spring, will more than double University of Nebraska Medical Center student enrollment in Kearney. He noted the renewal of the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, which recognizes the campus’s commitment to meaningful community partnerships and engagement. He highlighted the search for the next permanent UNMC chancellor, which was made public on Thursday.

He also recognized two UNL faculty members, both of whom have recently received national recognition for their contributions to research and scientific discovery. James Schnable, the Nebraska Corn Checkoff Presidential Chair at the University of UNL last month was awarded the 2026 NAS Prize in Food and Agriculture, one of the National Academy of Sciences’ highest honors. Mathias Schubert, the J.A. Woollam Distinguished Professor of Engineering, was named a 2025 Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors in January.

Together, these accomplishments move the University of Nebraska forward on its Odyssey to Extraordinary, said Dr. Gold.

“Step by step, we continue forward, each day a day closer to the extraordinary future we are building together,” he said. “This odyssey belongs to the people of Nebraska, and with your partnerships, it continues with high energy and dedication.”

Ankerson Approved as UNL Interim Chancellor During NU Regents Meeting

ALLIANCE, Neb. - The newly established Mahjong group in Alliance will be meeting February 13 and 27 from 1-3 p.m. in the library community room. The game is played with four players who compete to be the first to form a sequenced Mahjong by drawing and discarding from a group of tiles to create pattern-based hands.

If you have heard of the game and are interested in learning to play, this is your group! All levels of skill are encouraged to attend. The group intends to meet to play on the second and fourth Friday of every month at the Alliance Public Library. They held their first two sessions in January, which were educational and informative with the purpose of establishing the group and learning the basics of the game. This is a novice group of between 15-20 at the basic skills level.

New members are welcome, and those who have not played will have the opportunity to learn from the established group members who can advise any new attendees. There is no fee to play and no registration is required. Board games and accessories are provided compliments of the Alliance Public Library Foundation.

For further information Steph Hamilton may be reached at the library by calling 762-1387 or email shamilton@cityofalliance.net.

Alliance Public Library Mahjong Game Set to Meet Next Week

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Peachy Keen!

Bald eagles can be seen year-round across Nebraska, but winter and early spring are the best times of year to see large numbers of bald eagles.

Large concentrations of bald eagles arrive in winter to hunt for fish and ducks in the open waters of rivers and large reservoirs where ice has formed. Their keen eyesight, large talons and elegant hunting strategies make them a fascinating bird to watch.

View them by visiting any large reservoir in late February or early March when some water is open and migrating waterfowl have arrived.

Favored sites include Sutherland Reservoir near North Platte, Harlan County Reservoir near Alma, and below Gavin’s Point Dam near Yankton, S.D.

Also favored are Lake Ogallala and Lake McConaughy, where Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District maintains a viewing building near the dam spillway. The power district also facilitates viewing at its J-2 power plant south of Lexington (<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcnppid.com%2Fresources%2Feagle-viewing-facilities%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019c2ff34706-6aa7590c-7661-41e5-a0ff-479c1c2cbff3-000000/gYHwa3RPkgGZ-hqp5cLD7hOBIDwtG8GbZKMI6lM3vfQ=443" target="_blank">cnppid.com/resources/eagle-viewing-facilities</a>).

Other locations to view eagles are Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area, Niobrara State Park, Lake Wanahoo, Branched Oak SRA, Pawnee SRA and the Platte River Valley.

Learn more about bald eagles or wildlife viewing at&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2Flearn%2Fnebraska-wildlife%2Fnebraska-animals%2Fbirds%2Fbald-eagle%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019c2ff34706-6aa7590c-7661-41e5-a0ff-479c1c2cbff3-000000/5pMb5WMBr_dcswTuiDgpmGCPP6AtHdpxCuQQsucx4_g=443" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.

Winter, Early Spring are Prime Times for Bald Eagle Viewing

Jessi Laine to perform in Sidney 

Gabriel The Brute to play in Scottsbluff

Mark your calendars for&nbsp;March 28 and 29, 2026. The Chadron State College Hoop Shoot isn't just a tournament; it’s a major economic opportunity for our community. We anticipate an&nbsp;influx of hundreds of visitors, families, and fans&nbsp;from across the region, filling our hotels, restaurants, shops, and streets.

This is our moment to shine, provide exceptional hospitality, and grow our businesses. The NNDC, in partnership with Chadron State College, and the Chadron Chamber of Commerce encourages you to prepare now to maximize this opportunity.﻿﻿

Here’s How Your Business Can Win:

Together, we can ensure every visitor leaves impressed, planning their next trip back to Chadron.

Chadron State Hoop Shoot March 28 and 29

Details for March Fundraising Event for Pryor Family in Alliance

The first Alliance Arts Council event of 2026 will be a performance by Wendy Bantam from Lincoln, Nebraska on Friday, Jan. 30. Bantam will also be working as an artist in residence at the elementary schools the week of January 26-30.

A Nebraska native, Wendy Jane Bantam brings a pioneering sound to Americana Roots Music. With influences from old time country masters, and today’s Indie/world folk sound, Bantam’s ballads and melodies captivate people of all ages. A prolific songwriter and troubadour, Ms. Bantam spent her early childhood on a farm between Hay Springs and Chadron.

She studied performance at The University of Kansas in Lawrence, KS and received her Master of Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska- Lincoln. She’s appeared live on England’s BBC Radio and signed on with recording label, Tremulant Records; recently performing her original songs with the Missouri Symphony. Her album, Virga, was recorded with Merle Haggard’s longtime guitarist and Grammy winner, Redd Volkaert. She is currently with recording label state 51 in the United Kingdom.

Bantam will also include the 4th grade residency students as part of her program to allow them to share what they have worked on during the week. Business co-presenters for the school residency and the public performance are FNIC, FNBO, KCOW/Double Q Country Radio, Harris Sales and Western Nebraska Real Estate.

The programs are presented with the support of the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.

Tickets for Friday night show are $15 Adult, $10 Senior, $5 Student (preschool admitted free). Tickets are available at Carnegie Arts Center, Chamber of Commerce and at the door. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Alliance Arts Council to Host Artist/Musician Wendy Bantam

Alliance City Council Meeting Agenda, Jan. 20

The Brothers Duo to play in Scottsbluff

Southern Fryed will perform at the Alliance Eagles Club for the annual Barn Dance on Saturday, Jan. 17 starting at 9pm. There is a cover charge to attend.&nbsp;

Southern Fryed to perform in Alliance 

Nebraska Extension Announes Dates for Pesticide License Trainings

STILLWATER — Oklahoma State men's basketball team overcame a stellar performance by freshman sensation AJ Dybantsa to beat 16th-ranked BYU 99-92 on Wednesday night. Now the Oklahoma State University is facing a reprimand from the Big 12 Conference.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the conference announce on their social media account, "in accordance with the Big 12 Conference Principles and Standards of Sportsmanship, the Conference has issued Oklahoma State University a $50,000 fine following its investigation into inappropriate chants which referenced the Mormon religion that occurred during Wednesday’s men’s basketball game."

"The Big 12 Conference will not tolerate any behavior that targets or demeans others."

Big 12 Conference fines school for chants which referenced Mormons 

Judiciary Committee hears collection of bills aimed at improving state’s domestic violence response

By Erin Bamer <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraska lawmakers considered a slate of bills Friday aimed at improving protections for victims of domestic violence, including one that would require the people against whom protection orders were issued to temporarily surrender their firearms.

The Nebraska Legislature’s Judiciary Committee hosted public hearings on five bills that all seek to adjust the ways the state responds to domestic violence reports. Some of the policies considered included graduated penalties for repeated violations of protection orders and updates to Nebraska’s criminal code to address modern abuse tactics, adding penalties for using mobile tracking devices on a partner without his or her consent.

Legislative Bill 1088, introduced by State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln, would require people with domestic abuse protection orders granted against them or people convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor charge to surrender their owned firearms and to prove they complied with this aspect of the new law. Violations would be a Class I misdemeanor, which comes with a $1,000 fine, up to one year in jail, or both.

Current Nebraska law bans those convicted of domestic abuse charges or named in an issued protection order from purchasing new guns or ammunition. But Raybould and LB 1088 supporters argue that leaves a “deadly gap” in Nebraska’s criminal justice system. Raybould said her bill would bring Nebraska in line with 29 other states with similar laws.

“We can’t stick our heads in the sand about this issue,” Raybould said. “Especially when there are small but significant steps that we can take.”

LB 1088 saw seven supporters and two opponents testify at Friday’s hearing. Supporters included multiple survivors, a loved one of a deceased victim, a family law attorney, the Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, the Police Chiefs Association of Nebraska and the Women’s Fund of Omaha.

Multiple testifiers argued LB 1088 would save lives. Carrie Wiese, a domestic abuse survivor, said her abuser’s handgun “went missing” after he was issued a protection order three years ago. Had she been staying in a place where he could find her, Wiese said she may not be alive today.

Wiese and other supporters emphasized that the bill was a necessary enforcement tool for protection orders.

“Otherwise the [protection order] is just a piece of paper … that is not bulletproof,” Wiese said.

Melanie Kirk, legal director for the Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, said the period a victim seeks and secures a protection order is often the most dangerous for victims. When there is a firearm present in the home, violence is far more likely, she said.

Kirk acknowledged that one of the biggest challenges in LB 1088 was storage of seized firearms, noting that some law enforcement agencies may not have the capacity to store the weapons themselves. She suggested a delayed implementation date for the new law to give those agencies time to secure the needed infrastructure to handle weapons drop-offs.

Spencer Head with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office opposed LB 1088 in part for this reason. He said his office wouldn’t have the storage capacity necessary for this process and noted other procedural issues with the proposal. For example, he said his office is prohibited from returning seized ammunition.

Raybould indicated she was willing to negotiate with law enforcement on a possible amendment.

Dick Clark, an attorney and legislative staffer representing himself on Friday, also opposed the bill. He said LB 1088 would add unnecessary duties for law enforcement and noted that prohibited persons are already banned from possessing firearms under Nebraska law.

Clark argued LB 1088 would instill a stricter policy than federal law, which calls for the surrender of firearms only after the final order of a domestic abuse case has been made. He said the bill is well-intentioned, but he doubts it would actually accomplish Raybould’s goal of preventing violence.

“If they’re willing to kill, they’re probably willing to be a liar,” Clark said.

Nebraska mulls temporary firearm seizures for issued protection orders

🎥'Today' show host's new video plea to kidnapper: We will pay

Zubayar Al-Bakoush, an armed coconspirator in the 2012 attack on U.S. facilities in Benghazi, Libya, that killed U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and three other Americans, was charged in an eight-count indictment unsealed Friday in U.S. District Court on multiple terrorism and murder counts, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Bondi said in a news conference that Zubayr Al-Bakoush had landed at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland at 3 a.m. on Friday.

“We have never stopped seeking justice for that crime against our nation,” Bondi said.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said that an eight-count indictment charged Al-Bakoush with crimes including the murders of Ambassador Chris Stevens and State Department employee Sean Smith. It was unclear if Al-Bakoush had an attorney representing him.

Bakoush, who is in federal custody, is expected to make his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Moxila A. Upadhyaya for the District of Columbia.

“The terrorist attack on our Benghazi Embassy was a dark and tragic day for our nation that robbed us of four American heroes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Now, thanks to our brave federal agents, one of its alleged key participants will be prosecuted in an American courtroom on American soil. Under President Trump’s leadership, this Department of Justice will never rest in our mission to Make America Safe Again and deliver swift, severe justice to our enemies.”

"The FBI and our U.S. government partners have worked tirelessly to hold accountable those responsible for the heinous terrorist attacks in Benghazi, Libya that resulted in the deaths of the U.S. Ambassador, J. Christopher Stevens and U.S. government personnel Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, and Glen Doherty,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The latest result of our efforts is bringing&nbsp; Zubayar Al-Bakoush&nbsp; to the U.S. to face charges for his alleged role in the attacks against our citizens and our facilities in Libya. You can be assured that no matter how long it takes, or where you are located, the FBI remains steadfast in our duty to see justice served against those who harm our citizens. I’m grateful to the men and women of the FBI for their unrelenting efforts to bring us to where we stand today – this defendant will be prosecuted on U.S. soil.”

“Today’s indictment against Zubayar Al-Bakoush is indicative of President Trump’s resolve to hold accountable anyone who harms Americans, no matter where,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro for the District of Columbia. “Al-Bakoush is now on U.S. soil, because the FBI and Department of Justice never forgot those Americans who were seemingly forgotten in that outpost in Benghazi, Libya. President Trump, Attorney General Bondi, FBI Director Patel, and I will do whatever it takes, no matter how long it takes, to pursue justice for the victims and their families.”

“Over thirteen years have passed since the 2012 attack in Libya, and over eight since the last arrest in this case, but the Department of Justice’s resolve has not wavered,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “We never forgot those four Americans who were killed in service of our Nation, and we will continue to seek justice for them, their families, and for the United States.”

“In September 2012, Zubayar Al-Bakoush allegedly facilitated the terrorist attack on the United States Mission and Annex in Benghazi in which four Americans – including an ambassador – were murdered in an effort to incite additional violence against our country’s presence in Libya” said James Barnacle, Assistant Director in Charge of New York Field Office. “This bloody campaign waged unnecessary brutality against Americans and forever altered the lives of the victims’ families. May today’s significant disruption send a clear message: the FBI New York’s Joint Terrorism Task Force will never cease its tireless pursuit of any terrorist involved in the massacre of our nation’s citizens, regardless of when or where the onslaught occurred.”

Jurisdiction of the United States and Attempting to Do the Same

The charges stem from the Sept. 11, 2012, terrorist attack on the U.S. Special Mission and nearby CIA Annex that killed&nbsp;Ambassador Stevens and U.S. government personnel Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, and Glen Doherty.

According to the indictment, Bakoush was a member of Ansar Al Sharia (AAS), an Islamist extremist militia in Benghazi, which had the goal of establishing Sharia law in Libya.

On the evening of Sept. 11, 2012, a group of more than 20 heavily armed men – including Bakoush assembled outside the main gate of the U.S Special Mission in Benghazi.&nbsp; They were armed with assault rifles, other firearms, and explosive devices.&nbsp; At about 9:45 p.m., the group of armed men violently breached the main gate of the Mission. Upon entry, the men fanned out across the Mission complex, setting fires to building within the Mission compound.

When the attackers could not gain entry to the secure area of Villa C, the Ambassador’s residence, they set fire to it. &nbsp;Ambassador Stevens and Mr. Smith suffocated from the thick, black smoke that enveloped the residence.&nbsp;Diplomatic Security Services (DSS) Special Agent Scott Wickland, who had tried to guide Ambassador Stevens and Mr. Smith to safety, was injured and repeatedly took small arms fire while trying to rescue the two Americans.

The extremist group also attacked the Quick Reaction Force building, which was occupied by local Libyans serving as guards for the Mission.

About 10 p.m., Bakoush entered the Mission compound with other conspirators, and conducted surveillance of the Tactical Operation Center and the Villa. After Bakoush attempted to gain entry to vehicles belonging to Mission staff, he and his co-conspirators temporarily retreated to an area just outside the Mission.

About 11:15 p.m., conspirators assembled outside the southern gate and launched a second violent attack on the Mission using AK-type assault rifles, grenades, and rocket-propelled grenades. After 30 minutes, the group entered the compound and plundered the Mission’s office of documents, maps, and computers containing sensitive information about the location of the CIA Annex.

At 12:30 a.m., conspirators attacked the Annex with small arms, assault rifles, and rocket-propelled grenades.

Following the attack at the Mission, in the early hours of September 12, 2012, the violence continued at the CIA Annex, first with gunfire and then with a precision mortar attack. While defending the Annex, Mr. Woods, Mr. Doherty, DSS Special Agent David Ubben, and CIA security specialist Mark Tiegen were hit by a precision mortar attack, leading to the deaths of Mr. Woods and Mr. Doherty. Special Agent Ubben and Mr. Tiegen were seriously wounded but survived.

The Department of Justice previously charged and convicted two leaders in the Benghazi attack on federal terrorism charges and other offenses. Ahmed Abu Khatallah, aka Ahmed Mukatallah was sentenced in June 2018 to 22 years in prison and resentenced in September 2024 to 28 years in prison. Mustafa al-Imam was sentenced in January 2020 to nearly 20 years.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s New York Field Office with substantial assistance from the Department of War, the CIA and the Department of State. The National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section provided additional assistance.

The case is being prosecuted by the National Security Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.

🎥Militant is in custody for 2012 attack that killed U.S. Ambassador

ARLINGTON COUNTY, Virginia —On Thursday, the Arlington County, Virginia Police Department&nbsp; announced the arrest of a Maryland man following a month’s long criminal investigation, according to a media release from Arlington County police.

Colin Demarco, 26, of Rockville, Maryland is charged with Attempted Murder, Criminal Solicitation to Commit Murder, Carrying a Concealed Weapon and Wearing a Mask in Public to Conceal Identity. He was taken into custody at his residence on January 16 and later extradited to the Commonwealth of Virginia. He is being held without bond in the Arlington County Detention Facility.

At approximately 3:15 p.m. on August 10, 2025, Arlington County Police were dispatched to the 3800 block of 7th Street S. for the report of a suspicious person. 

A witness reported observing a suspect, who was wearing a surgical mask and rubber gloves, carrying a backpack and appeared to be concealing a firearm under his shirt, on the victim’s porch. 

The suspect subsequently approached the witness and inquired about the victim before leaving the scene. The witness then contacted police and responding officers established a perimeter and canvassed the area for the suspect with negative results. The incident was captured on home surveillance video and the suspect was subsequently identified.

During the course of the investigation, the Arlington County Police Department executed search warrants for digital records associated with the suspect. As a result of these search warrants, police recovered digital evidence that the suspect had obtained directions to the victim’s residence, confirmed in court records as the home of&nbsp;t  Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought. 

The suspect also had information detailing locations of firearms possessed by a relative and had a guide detailing tips to prevent criminal detection. 

Additionally, the suspect had posted online about the victim and had online discussions appearing to solicit others to murder the victim. Within days of these online solicitations, the August 10 incident occurred where the suspect arrived at the victim’s address wearing a mask and gloves, possibly concealing a firearm and inquired about the victim. As a result of the investigation, detectives obtained the criminal warrants for the suspect’s arrest.

Man accused of trying to kill member of President Trump's Cabinet

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

The sale and trafficking of counterfeit goods is a multimillion-dollar criminal industry.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iprcenter.gov/opteamplayer" target="_blank">Operation Team Player</a>&nbsp;is a year-round initiative led by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iprcenter.gov/" target="_blank">National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Center</a>&nbsp;in collaboration with all major U.S. sports leagues to prevent counterfeit sports merchandise and apparel from reaching fans ahead of high-profile sporting events.

<a href="https://www.iprcenter.gov/opteamplayer">Click here to learn more</a>

Together with major sports leagues, the IPR Center:

Buying fake merchandise may seem harmless, but it has serious consequences. Whether it’s a fan losing hard-earned money on a fake jersey they were led to believe was authentic, or small businesses that purchased an expensive vendor license losing vital sales, intellectual property theft is a real crime with real victims and real negative financial impacts. This may sound absurd when talking about sports merchandise, but has real consequences for medications, cosmetics, electronics and other types of counterfeit or unlicensed goods and merchandise.

Counterfeit jerseys, hats, rings and other sports merchandise may look like the licensed version, but you could be scammed out of your hard-earned money thinking you are spending money on licensed gear. Counterfeit and unlicensed merchandise is often cheaply made with inferior stitching, dyes and other dangerous materials that can affect consumers’ health. It may not hold up to wear and tear like licensed gear.

Counterfeiting is a worldwide issue and combating it requires a united front. By working together — law enforcement, industry leaders and everyday consumers — we can make a significant impact.

Many people don’t think twice about counterfeit goods — until they personally experience the consequences. Whether it's being scammed, suffering harm, or having their intellectual property stolen, counterfeiting has real-world effects.

As the Super Bowl approaches officials warn of fake sports gear

🎥'Today' show host's family renews plea to mother's kidnapper

On Thursday, at the direction of U.S. Southern Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations, according to a social media report from the U.S. Southern Command.

Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. 

Two narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military forces were harmed.&nbsp; This is the second deadly strike since the&nbsp;raid that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. On January 23, the U.S. carried out a deadly strike on a vessel accused of trafficking drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean.

&nbsp;The Department of War released no additional details.

🎥 US carries out another deadly strike on a drug boat 

On Thursday, the FBI arrested Derrick Callella in Hawthorne, California, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Callella has been charged via a criminal complaint filed in federal court for transmitting a demand for ransom in interstate commerce, and without disclosing his identity, utilizing a telecommunications device with the intent to abuse, threaten, or harass a person.

<a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-az/media/1426976/dl?inline">Click here to read the criminal_complaint</a>

“The Department of Justice will protect victims and families at all costs, and grief profiteers will be held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “This case came together in under 24 hours because of the coordinated work of the FBI, local law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.”

“To those imposters who are trying to take advantage and profit from this situation – we will investigate and ensure you are held accountable for your actions,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Heith Janke.

A criminal complaint is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Man accused of being ransom note ‘imposter’ in Nancy Guthrie case

Reward increased in search for 'Today' show host's missing mother

WAYNE, Neb. – Chayton Bynes vaulted to the top of the record books and the Division II leaderboard with a massive triple jump mark while Camila Salvucci, Ryan Clapper and Christopher Cormier also won events at the Wildcat Invite held in Wayne, Nebraska on Friday. 

Bynes jumped 16.01 meters, or 52 feet, 6.5 inches, more than seven feet ahead of any competitor at the Wayne meet. The mark sets a new indoor school record, surpassing the old record of 51-8.5 set by Isaac Grimes in 2019, and set a new facility record for Wayne State.

Even more impressively, Bynes’s leap is the longest jump by a Division II competitor this season, 0.07 meters and 2.75 inches farther than second-place Justin Forde of Washburn’s top mark. It easily sets an NCAA provisional qualifying standard and should punch Bynes’s ticket to the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships. 

In winning the women’s triple jump event, Salvucci also set a Wayne State facility record and a new season best with her leap of 11.93 meters (39-1.75). Salvucci’s Friday mark is four inches shy of her career best of 12.03 (39-5.75) from last year’s Eagle Last Chance meet and is less than a foot off the school record of 40-0.25, set by Emily Volkmer in 2006.

Ryan Clapper had a big day in the sprints. The junior won the 200-meter dash in a season-best 21.86 seconds, which is the fifth-fastest time in the RMAC this season, and placed third in the 400 meters by running that in 48.60 seconds, the fourth-fastest time in the league this year.

Christopher Cormier edged out his teammate and the rest of the field by winning the event in 48.41, which is the third-fastest RMAC time of the season in that event. Cormier and Clapper’s 400-meter times are the third and fourth-fastest ever at Chadron State indoors.

Two more Eagles were runners-up in their events. Esosa Iyengunmwena placed second in the 60-meter dash in 6.94 seconds, while Shelby Ekwall threw 13.45 meters (44-1.5) to place second in the women’s shot put. Ekwall’s heave was 1.25 inches shy of her career best, which came two weeks ago at the same facility.

Caleb Christensen finished sixth in the men’s weight throw with a personal-best mark of 16.03 meters (52-7.25). Courtney Williams also tallied a personal best in the high jump, clearing 1.92 meters (6-3.5) to finish seventh in that event. 

Paige Kehmeier had a standout performance on the women’s side by placing fourth in the 15-runner women’s 400 with a season best of 1:00.96.

Three more Eagles placed sixth in various events – Casey Miller in the men’s shot put (14.70m/48-2.75), Eva Nitschke in the women’s 60-meter hurdles (9.36 seconds), and Augustin Chiang in the men’s 60 (7.09 seconds).

The Eagles will compete at the SDSU Indoor Classic in Brookings, South Dakota next Friday and Saturday.

Hometown jumper Chayton Bynes sets CSC record, new D2 high mark in triple jump

Western Trails Conference Basketball Tournament

Girls First Round - Thursday, February 5 #1 Bridgeport - BYE #2 Morrill 53, #7 Hemingford 27 #3 Kimball 59, #6 Gordon-Rushville 55 #4 Mitchell 54, #5 Bayard 38

Boys First Round - Thursday, February 5 #1 Kimball - BYE #2 Bridgeport 87, #7 Morrill 4 #3 Hemingford 56, #6 Gordon-Rushville 53 (OT) #5 Mitchell 76, #4 Bayard 34

Girls Day Two - Friday, February 6 #6 Gordon-Rushville 58, #7 Hemingford 43 Semis: #1 Bridgeport 70, #4 Mitchell 24 Semis: #3 Kimball 36,&nbsp;#2 Morrill 21

Boys Day Two - Friday, February 6 #6 Gordon-Rushville 97, #7 Morrill 10 Semis: #1 Kimball 71, #5 Mitchell 69 Semis: #2 Bridgeport 83, #3 Hemingford 39

Final Day - Saturday, February 7 Girls 5th Place Game - Bayard 53, Gordon-Rushville 40 Boys 5th Place Game - Gordon-Rushville 58, Bayard 17 Girls 3rd Place Game - Morrill 57, Mitchell 55 Boys 3rd Place Game - Hemingford 46, Mitchell 40 Girls Championship - Bridgeport 57, Kimball 23 Boys Championship - Bridgeport 65, Kimball 33

🏀 UPDATE: Bulldogs Sweep - Western Trails Conference Basketball Tournament - Scores & Schedule

By: Paxton Ritchie CSC Sports Information Director

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – A second-half rally fell short as the Chadron State men's basketball team fell on the road to Colorado Christian 86-80 on Thursday night despite five Eagles scoring in double figures. 

CCU's Pierce Bazil exploded for 36 points on 11 of 16 shooting, including an 8 of 12 night from three-point range, while his brother Porter Bazil grabbed a game-high 12 rebounds to lift the Cougars (10-11, 5-8 RMAC) to their second win of the season over the Eagles (5-16, 3-10 RMAC).

The Eagles trailed by nine at the half, but after CCU scored a three-pointer for the first basket after halftime 15 seconds into the second period, the Cougars led by as many as 23 and were up by double digits until there was only 1:48 left to go. 

The Eagles hit shots down the stretch and cut the lead to as small as four in the final seconds, but Colorado Christian made its pressure free throws (9-for-10 in the final minute) to keep enough distance ahead.

Isaiah Randolph led a balanced CSC attack with 20 points, shooting 8-for-13 from the field. Zach Smith had a standout game, as CSC's only returning player from 2024-25 set NCAA career-highs in points (19), minutes (37), and steals (five) while tying a season-high with four assists. 

Three different Eagles finished with 11 points each – Mack Keighran, Blessing Adesipe and Jackson Schauer. Schauer and Smith each hit three three-pointers while Keighran, Adesipe and Ethan Russell sunk two apiece. 

Randolph and Adesipe shared the team lead with five rebounds while Randolph and Smith shared the team high with four assists. 

The Eagles shot 45.9 percent from the field and 46 percent from three but left some points available at the line with a 63.2 percentage (12-19). Colorado Christian shot 48 percent from the field and 37.5 percent from three. Both teams made 12 threes in the game, but the Eagles did so on 26 attempts while the Cougars took 32. 

Colorado Christian outrebounded Chadron State 34-23, including eight offensive rebounds. The Cougars also got to the line at a much higher clip, attempting 34 free throws and making 24. The Eagles did win the turnover battle, committing 10 turnovers but forcing 13 Cougar giveaways.

Chadron State heads to Pueblo this Saturday to face CSU Pueblo (14-7, 8-5 RMAC) at 1 p.m. at Massari Arena. The ThunderWolves defeated Black Hills State 71-53 in a statement victory on Thursday.

​Chadron State—Isaiah Randolph 20, Zach Smith 19, Blessing Adesipe 11, Mack Keighran 11, Jackson Schauer 11, Ethan Russell 6, Jadon Cool 2. Totals: 28-61 FG (12-26 3PT) 12-19 FT. 80 points, 23 rebounds, 13 assists, 10 turnovers.

CSC MBB: Eagles roar back but can't overcome big deficit in loss at CCU

By: Con Marshall CSC Sports Information

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – Chadron State College freshman Kenna Wagner scored her career-high 15 points and also had a team-high six rebounds and a game-high six steals, but the host Colorado Christian Cougars posted an 84-43 victory on their home court in Lakewood, Colorado on Thursday night.

The Cougars scored at least 20 points in each quarter, led 21-9 at the end of the opening frame, were ahead 44-23 at halftime and outscored the visitors 40-20 in the second half.

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