The Box Butte Art Society is pleased to announce the award recipients for the 2026 Spring Art Show, with judging conducted by artist and juror&nbsp;Tiffany Hickox. This year’s exhibition showcased an impressive range of talent from regional artists, highlighting the depth and diversity of creative expression in the Nebraska Panhandle.

Best of Show&nbsp;was awarded to&nbsp;Sandhills Summer Breeze&nbsp;by&nbsp;Linda Lacy, recognized for its exceptional execution and compelling presence within the gallery.

Certificates of Excellence&nbsp;were presented to:&nbsp;Liz&nbsp;by&nbsp;Kyren Gibson;&nbsp;Nature’s Comforting Embrace&nbsp;by&nbsp;Steph Mantooth; and&nbsp;Ad Meliora&nbsp;by&nbsp;Bailey Johnson.&nbsp;Honorable Mention&nbsp;awards were given to:Prairie Sunrise&nbsp;by&nbsp;Robert Peltz;&nbsp;Where the Hills Whisper&nbsp;by&nbsp;Audrey Powles;&nbsp;The Way Through&nbsp;by&nbsp;Clarice Hynes; and&nbsp;The Boyer Barn&nbsp;by&nbsp;Joy Price.

In the youth division, a&nbsp;Youth Certificate of Excellence&nbsp;was awarded to&nbsp;Hue Knew&nbsp;by&nbsp;Ayvrie Waldron, celebrating the next generation of artistic talent in our community.

The Box Butte Art Society invites all to attend the exhibit, up until March 28 and join us for the artist reception, March 14 5-7 p.m.&nbsp;

For anyone interested in the arts and creativity, you can join the Box Butte Art society any time of year for only $15.&nbsp; New members please see Steph Mantooth at Steph’s Studio in Alliance to register as a member.

Box Butte Art Society Announces 2026 Spring Show Award Winners

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;- Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff effective immediately and until sunset on the day of interment in honor and remembrance of Sergeant First Class Noah Tietjens of Bellevue. Noah was among six military personnel killed this weekend when an Iranian missile hit a military operations center in Kuwait.

Gov. Pillen shared the following statement, upon learning of Sgt. Tietjens death yesterday: “Suzanne and I are deeply saddened to learn of Sgt. Tietjens death. We are holding the Tietjens family close in our hearts during this unbelievably difficult time and will keep them in our prayers.

Noah&nbsp;stepped up to serve and defend the American people from foreign enemies around the world – a sacrifice we must never forget. Please join us in praying for the Tietjens and for all members of the United States military who stand in harm’s way to protect our freedom.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Orders Flags to Half-Staff Honoring Sgt. Tietjens of Bellevue

Some of the next generation of dry bean breeders and industry specialists are training at Carlos Urrea’s Dry Bean Breeding Lab. Urrea is the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center Dry Bean Breeder in Scottsbluff. In the past several years, he has had students and visiting scholars from various countries study with him.&nbsp;

“The students are exposed to all dry bean breeding activities and can apply some of the theory learned in their classes. The students are also helping me take notes, harvesting and preparing seeds for winter nurseries,” Urrea said.

In 2025, three students from three different countries joined Urrea and his crew in the fields and lab in Nebraska. Esau Higenyi is a Ugandan student pursuing his undergraduate studies at EARTH University in Costa Rica. Joel Guananga, from Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is studying Agronomic Engineering in Costa Rica. And Valeska Fuentes-Sepúlveda, from Chile, is a fifth-year agricultural engineering student at the University of Concepción.&nbsp;

The students assisted Urrea in the summer and fall, during which they learned about bean diseases and varieties, and how to evaluate different phenotypes in field plots.

“My internship was very exciting because the experience was incredible. I learned about the augmented block design, the legal procedures for sending seed to another country, the methods of harvest, and the discipline and organization that the team must maintain to achieve great performance in the field, the laboratory, and the warehouse,” Guananga said.&nbsp;

Fuentes-Sepúlveda wrote her thesis on the "Effect of Terminal Drought on Cooking Time and Rehydration of Traditional Chilean Dry Bean Varieties." “I want to learn how to produce food sustainably and efficiently to meet the needs of the world's population. I am very grateful for the opportunity, which makes me appreciate the great research work carried out by professionals like Dr. Carlos Urrea and his team, who work in the agricultural sector to ensure food safety, a very important aspect of agriculture around the world today.”

While the students spent most days working with Urrea, they also learned more about the surrounding communities. The students partnered with Empowering Families, a non-profit in the Nebraska Panhandle. Together, they worked on a youth conference, a youth leadership event and a Lakota Cultural Retreat.&nbsp;

“The students were fantastic to work with,” said Maricia Marquez, Empowering Families Program Director. “I really appreciated our partnership. The students were always professional, interested and excited to engage with the community and bring great skills and perspectives.”

The students also helped Urrea with the International Bean Improvement Cooperative (BIC) and North American Pulse Improvement Association (NAPIA) Biennial meeting in Lincoln, Neb. The students helped with registration, during the oral presentations and with the posters. Urrea made sure they were also networking with the attendees, as the meeting was international. “I didn’t have these opportunities. I want this internship program to open doors for future career plans.”

Higenyi would agree that the internship is allowing him opportunities that align with his passion for plant genetics.

“During my internship, I have gained a deep understanding of the different stages of bacterial blight in beans, especially the most critical ones. I have also learned that developing a stable bean variety requires patience and long-term commitment. This internship has not only strengthened my foundation in agricultural science but also reinforced my belief that passion, patience, and purpose are the key ingredients for meaningful research and innovation,” he said.

International Students Build Research Skills and Engage with Local Community

The UNMC College of Nursing&nbsp;has&nbsp;secured funding to&nbsp;award 30 full cost-of-education scholarships over the next two years at its West Nebraska, Kearney and Northern divisions.&nbsp;To qualify for the scholarships, students must meet competitive qualifications and commit to at least two years working&nbsp;in nursing in either long-term care or acute care in rural settings upon graduation.&nbsp;

The scholarships will fund the&nbsp;Rural Nebraska Nursing Fellowship,&nbsp;covering all tuition, fees and books&nbsp;for a two-year Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at UNMC’s Scottsbluff, Kearney and Norfolk campuses, plus a $5,000 living-expenses stipend each semester.&nbsp;The first 15 rural fellows – five at each campus – will enroll in UNMC’s August 2026 cohort of BSN students.&nbsp;The second 15 will enroll the following academic year.

Lepaine Sharp-McHenry, DNP, dean of the UNMC College of Nursing, cited&nbsp;<a href="https://online.flippingbook.com/view/753298968/" target="_blank">recent statistics which show</a>&nbsp;nine Nebraska counties without nurses. The Nebraska Center for Nursing 2025 biennial report found the Panhandle Economic Region is hardest hit, with more than one in four crucially needed nursing positions left unfilled.

“These data points and others are what drive us to seek ways in which we can address the state’s nursing workforce needs,” Dr. Sharp-McHenry said. “This grant will allow us to specifically prepare nurses for our rural communities. It is our hope that this grant will create a model that can be supported and sustained to continue bolstering the nursing workforce in rural Nebraska.”

The project is supported by a grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), with no state funding used to create these fellowships.

“This is a major opportunity to strengthen the rural BSN workforce, collaborate with rural long term and acute care institutions in Nebraska and provide debt-free education,” said Joachim Voss, PhD, associate dean and Peck Lienemann and Alumni Distinguished Chair in Nursing.

Award winners must apply and be accepted&nbsp;to the UNMC College of Nursing, follow all program procedures and guidelines, remain in good standing (including a 3.0 grade point average), pass the NCLEX licensing exam and&nbsp;commit to&nbsp;two&nbsp;years working in the&nbsp;rural&nbsp;health-care facility&nbsp;with which they are assigned&nbsp;upon graduation. Applicants must have completed their two years of undergraduate general education requirements and nursing prerequisites.&nbsp;

The rural fellowship program includes peer and professional mentoring, access to a graduate assistant tutor and more than&nbsp;80 hours of rural specific long-term and acute care supplemental learning.&nbsp;

For more information on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Rural Nebraska Nursing Fellowship, please visit the UNMC College of Nursing’s&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fnam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.unmc.edu%252Fnursing%252Fprospective-students%252Frural-fellowship.html%26data%3D05%257C02%257Ckalani.simpson%2540unmc.edu%257C5df51a6dfe1f4d2d92c808de762f3bb8%257C84a28940b46441c3ba3bb4fa6665bc05%257C0%257C0%257C639078142411969969%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DHpodlpXK1X5SXdny9Pl3LbfXXp7UQqyMkRnG4kQa4IU%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=667c7a37e79c162f41d2693c73a7ab542f52045eeb106fcb090874cbdec66f8f" target="_blank">website</a>, which includes a&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fnam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fforms.cloud.microsoft%252Fpages%252Fresponsepage.aspx%253Fid%253DQImihGS0w0G6O7T6ZmW8BT9-F6PXwl5JnruYnbeHKjFUMFhPUkVQQUoxMURSVE5VVzg4SFhaVlZMTi4u%2526route%253Dshorturl%26data%3D05%257C02%257Ckalani.simpson%2540unmc.edu%257C5df51a6dfe1f4d2d92c808de762f3bb8%257C84a28940b46441c3ba3bb4fa6665bc05%257C0%257C0%257C639078142411998516%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DSVwLQ9oHSLaEnAACuqN55Ak98dgQ7WIr8pCEAw%252BVmL0%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=667c7a37e79c162f41d2693c73a7ab542f52045eeb106fcb090874cbdec66f8f" target="_blank">link to apply</a>&nbsp;for one of the full scholarships. Applications for 2026 cannot be accepted after April 1.

UNMC to Offer New Nursing Scholarships at Scottsbluff, Kearney, Norfolk

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: March Sports

POST PODCAST: Neal Parsons, The Fourth Wall

KEARNEY, Neb. – As communities across the state continue to face health care provider shortages, the University of Nebraska at Kearney is investing in students committed to changing that reality.

More than 60 high school seniors have been selected to join the Kearney Health Opportunities Program (KHOP) this fall, beginning their academic journeys at UNK with the goal of serving rural Nebraska as future health care professionals.

Representing communities from the Panhandle to the Missouri River, the incoming students were chosen for their academic achievement, leadership potential and commitment to practicing in rural or medically underserved areas.

“These students represent the future of health care in Nebraska,” said Peggy Abels, director of UNK Health Sciences. “The work they begin at UNK will have a ripple effect across the state, expanding access to care, strengthening local health systems and ultimately improving the quality of life for countless Nebraskans.”

According to data from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, more than 80 percent of the state’s health diagnosing and treating practitioners are located in metropolitan areas, while much of the state remains federally designated as medically underserved. Programs like KHOP are designed to address that imbalance by recruiting students from rural communities and supporting them through professional training.

Launched in 2010, KHOP provides financial assistance, academic support and professional development opportunities for students pursuing careers in 12 different health professions: dental hygiene, dentistry, medical laboratory science, medical nutrition, medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician assistant, public health and radiography. Many participants receive full-tuition scholarships to attend UNK and guaranteed admission to UNMC upon successful completion of program requirements.

Through the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex, most students can complete both undergraduate and professional training in Kearney before entering practice. The model reflects a shared commitment by UNK and UNMC to educate providers closer to the communities they are most likely to serve.

As part of the KHOP Learning Community, first-year participants live together in a residential setting that provides structured academic support and early exposure to health careers. Students meet with health care providers, tour medical facilities and build connections that prepare them for professional school and future practice. The program provides a $2,000 scholarship for all KHOP Learning Community members during the first year.

More than 170 students are currently part of KHOP, and the 67 high school seniors accepted for fall 2026 represent the second-largest class in program history.

“The continued interest in KHOP shows that students across Nebraska are ready to step up and address the health care challenges facing our state,” Abels said. “We’re excited to welcome these outstanding individuals into our community, and we look forward to supporting them as they prepare to make a meaningful impact in the years ahead.”

For more information on the KHOP program, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://unk.edu/khop" target="_blank">unk.edu/khop</a>, call 308-865-8260 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:abelsp@unk.edu" target="_blank">abelsp@unk.edu</a>.

The following students, listed by hometown, will begin the Kearney Health Opportunities Program this fall:

Alliance – Makenna Quick, physical therapy

Arcadia – Jillian Hurlburt, radiography

Aurora – Madelyn Ramaekers, physician assistant

Blair – Allyson Sullivan, occupational therapy

Colon – Bayleigh Cantrall, medical nutrition

Columbus – Eastyn Luebbe, physician assistant

David City – Kambri Andel, occupational therapy

Grand Island – Makenzie Clausen, dentistry

Grand Island – Jonathan Alberts, dentistry

Grand Island – Khale Lindiman, dentistry

Grand Island – Elizabeth Walton, dentistry

Grand Island – Audrey Svoboda, medicine

Grand Island – Emily Ye, physician assistant

Hartington – Audrey Christensen, occupational therapy

Hastings – Addison Clark, dental hygiene

Kearney – Blaire May, medical nutrition

Kearney – Kinley Mercer, occupational therapy

Kearney – Harper Lewandowski, public health

Kenesaw – Kamille Kennedy, physician assistant

Lincoln – Angelina Cloet, occupational therapy

Lyons – Kaylin Miller, physical therapy

North Platte – Colten Altig, physician assistant

O’Neill – Leah Wiese, physical therapy

Platte Center – Will Stuthman, medicine

Plattsmouth – Kaitlynn Moss, occupational therapy

Pleasanton – Colton Zehendner, physical therapy

St. Paul – Matthew Kramer, physician assistant

Scribner – Adilynn Brown, physical therapy

Shelton – Ty Buescher, physical therapy

Sidney – Olivia Ford, physician assistant

Valparaiso – Mikiah Witzel, physician assistant

Wood River – Parker Lowe, dental hygiene

Wood River – Marlen Rodriguez, dental hygiene

More Than 60 Students Selected for Kearney Health Opportunities Program at UNK

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol have conducted alcohol compliance checks in Lincoln County.

During the evening hours of Friday, Feb. 27, investigators conducted alcohol compliance checks at several businesses in Lincoln County.

In total 12 businesses were checked. Ten of those businesses refused to sell alcohol to a minor for a compliance rate of 83 percent. All but one business checked the minor's ID.

The businesses checked included&nbsp;convenience stores, restaurants, bars and liquor stores.

Businesses that sell alcohol to minors are referred to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. Clerks who sell alcohol to a minor are cited for procuring alcohol for a minor.

This project is funded (100 percent, $427,899) by the Region II Human Services Substance Abuse Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Services Block Grant (1B08TI088119-01) through SAMHSA, contracted through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health.

Alcohol Compliance Checks Held in Lincoln County

The Panhandle Prevention Coalition (PPC), proudly part of Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD), will host the 2026 Prevention Symposium:&nbsp;United for Change – Strengthening Minds and Communities&nbsp;on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the Gering Civic Center.

This full-day symposium will bring together community members, educators, healthcare professionals, first responders, prevention specialists and advocates from across the Nebraska Panhandle to explore timely topics related to behavioral health, substance use prevention, youth mental health and community resilience.

The 2026 symposium features a diverse lineup of speakers offering a mix of personal experience, data-driven insight, and practical tools designed to support prevention and early intervention efforts across the lifespan.

Speakers include Jake Danielson, TEDx speaker and mental health advocate; Jay Martin, School Safety &amp; Security Director with the Nebraska Department of Education; Kaitlyn Shannon, Miss Scottsbluff County’s Teen 2025/2026 and youth mental health advocate; Justin S. Dillard, Assistant Special Agent in Charge with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Kristine Benda, APRN, pediatric nurse practitioner and researcher with the University of Nebraska Medical Center; Miranda Stoll, Licensed Mental Health Provider And Substance Use Counselor; Jim Cowser, CEO of Central Wyoming Counseling Center; and Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers.

-A dynamic presentation focused on resilience, self-care, vulnerability, and hope

-An in-depth look at the impact of social media, digital platforms, and artificial intelligence on youth behavior and mental health

-Youth voice and advocacy centered on breaking stigma and supporting teen mental health. Current drug trends presented by the DEA, paired with the interactive Hidden in Plain Sight exhibit for parents and caregivers

-Practical discussions on addiction, connection, and healing conversations

-Updates on Nebraska’s medical marijuana landscape and regional behavioral health systems, including the Crisis Stabilization and Substance Use Treatment Center in Kimball

The event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with a light breakfast and lunch included. Registration is $40, and participants will receive a certificate to apply for continuing education units (CEUs).

Space is limited, so get registered today at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/8cbrccf9" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/8cbrccf9</a>.

For additional information about the Panhandle Prevention Coalition, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pphd.ne.gov/Pages/PPC.html" target="_blank">https://www.pphd.ne.gov/Pages/PPC.html</a>&nbsp;or call Crane at 308-672-9800.

2026 Prevention Symposium set for April 23 at Gering Civic Center

By Shelby Westinghouse, Chadron State College

CHADRON, Neb. – Point of Origin: Bridging Realities through Collage, Technology and Identity, an exhibition by Natalie Tyree, is on display in Memorial Hall’s Main Gallery now through March 11. The gallery is free and open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The show features a mix between traditional art forms and modern digital technology including hand-printed letterpress works, collage, prints and digital media. Tyree includes two types of prints: gelli monotypes and risograph.

Gelli monotypes are one-of-a-kind prints created by applying paint to a flexible, reusable and synthetic gelatin plate then pressing paper or fabric onto it. Risograph prints are vibrant pieces made with soy-based ink and unique spot colors to create distinct and textured results.

Tyree’s digital media incorporates the techniques videography and augmented reality. Through a projector, abstract images, color and movement are displayed. Augmented reality can be viewed through a phone screen, distorting the hanging letterpress poster.

The works engage with themes like humor, irony, overconsumption, grief, loss and generational identity, particularly the millennial experience, while questioning the overwhelming flow of information from social media, daily routines and technology.&nbsp;

Tyree is currently an Associate Professor of Graphic Design at Western Kentucky University. She graduated with a BFA in Graphic Design at the University of Tennessee at Martin in 2007 and an MFA in Graphic Design at Indiana State University in 2013.

“With a foundation in graphic design, my work initially focused on digitally manipulated imagery. Over time, I moved away from the computer, incorporating watercolors, doodles and collage to blend organic elements with the concept of the machine as a creative tool,” she said.

One of Tyree’s main goals for the exhibition is to create a conversation around generational identity and how factors such as technology, media and culture can influence the way people view themselves and others. She aims to present work that is both thought-provoking and approachable.

Point of Origin Art Show Featured in Memorial Hall

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Carrey: Dead Or Alive?

Jay and Amanda Music will be performing today, Thursday at Roberta Barnes, Where I Hang my Heart from 5pm – 7pm at West Nebraska Arts Center.&nbsp;

Jay and Amanda to perform in Scottsbluff 

Kalin Krohe Reference, That One Guy to play in Sidney 

Jessi Laine to perform in Kimball 

SKYWARN Spotter Training Coming to Hemingford on April 22

NEBRASKA PANHANDLE — Panhandle Frontier Finds is a regional event that will highlight western Nebraska’s businesses and people. Panhandle Frontier Finds (PFF) will debut June 5–7, 2026, bringing together communities, vendors, and travelers for a three-day, multi-county celebration of the region.

Communities across 11 counties are working together to bring visitors and residents out for community-wide garage sales, barn sales, antique shopping, crafters and more. But time slips away quickly, so grab your listing in the official Panhandle Frontier Finds Trail Guide and advertise your sale or business to those hunting for bargains and vintage treasures.

Interested vendors can secure a listing in the sales booklet for $25-45 based on the type of listing. Panhandle businesses and organizations can advertise in the guide to drive business to their locations for $50-200 for display advertising, which must be camera ready and in black and white. There are also sponsorship and merchandising opportunities available for those interested in partnering with the event.

All vendor listings and ad space must be reserved by March 1 to be included in the printed Trail Guide. A limited quantity of Trail Guides will be made available throughout the Panhandle for free, or can be mailed for $5 shipping and handling.

Digital versions for viewing or download will be available at https://panhandlefrontierfinds.com/.

Additional information can be requested by emailing info@panhandlefrontierfinds.com.

Panhandle Frontier Finds Trail Guide deadline coming soon

Country Music Jamboree to be held in Chadron 

Spencer Gonzalez to play in Kimball 

Stars of Tomorrow to be held in Chadron 

Click <a href="https://panhandlepost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a> to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This message is to inform you of an upcoming change to our obituary policy in the Panhandle Post. Beginning July 1st, 2024, there will be a $50 fee associated with publishing obituaries on PanhandlePost.com.&nbsp;

We understand that obituaries are an important way to honor the memory of loved ones and share their life stories with the community. We remain committed to providing this service, and the fees collected will help us continue to offer high-quality obituaries while maintaining the overall sustainability of the Panhandle Post.&nbsp;

We would like for you to include Panhandle Post as an offering for families to place an obituary.&nbsp;

To submit an obituary for publication after July 1st, please send it electronically to tammy.griffee@eagleradio.net.&nbsp;

For more information about the new obituary fees and submission guidelines, please visit our website at PanhandlePost.com/category/obituaries or contact our Tammy Griffee at 308-762-1400 or <a href="mailto:tammy.griffee@eagleradio.net" target="_blank">tammy.griffee@eagleradio.net</a>.&nbsp;

Obituaries posted will be billed directly to the funeral home for the postings for that current month. Invoices will be received in the mail at the end of each month or early the following month.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We appreciate your understanding and continued support of the Panhandle Post.&nbsp;

Recent obituaries and service times

The Early Childhood Planning Region Team Meeting for the ESU 12 service area will be held on&nbsp;WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18TH,&nbsp;FROM 9:00 AM TO 11:00 AM. THE MEETING WILL BE AT WNCC ALLIANCE PANHANDLE ROOM.&nbsp;

The Planning Region Team meets throughout the year for local school providers, DHHS, Head Start and Early Head Start, families and others to&nbsp;assist&nbsp;in collaborative planning and problem solving to serve young children with disabilities and their families.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; If you are concerned about a child’s development or ongoing health condition, contact WCHR for more information about referrals, evaluations, and&nbsp;possible services&nbsp;available at no cost to your family by calling 800-717-1231 and asking for the Early Development Network.&nbsp;

Early Childhood Planning Region Team meeting to be held in Chadron 

🎥 Details on US submarine torpedo attack on Iranian warship

The Department of War on Tuesday announced the names of four Army Reserve Soldiers who were supporting Operation Epic Fury, according to a media release.

Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Neb.; Capt. Cody A. Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Fla.; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minn.; and Sgt. Declan J. Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, Iowa, died on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, during an unmanned aircraft system attack. 

All Soldiers were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa. The incident is under investigation.

Soldier from Nebraska among those killed in Iran conflict 

Subject: Security Alert - Shelter in Place - U.S. Mission to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, (Mar. 3, 2026)

Avoid the Embassy until further notice due to an attack on the facility. We continue to limit non-essential travel to any military installations in the region.

The U.S. Mission to Saudi Arabia has issued a shelter in place notification for Jeddah, Riyadh and Dhahran and are limiting non-essential travel to any military installations in the region – we recommend American citizens in the Kingdom to shelter in place immediately.

The U.S. Mission to Saudi Arabia continues to monitor the regional situation.

We encourage all travelers to review our most recentSecurity Alerts, review any travel plans in case of disruptions, and make appropriate decisions to keep themselves and their families safe.

We advise all U.S. citizens to maintain a personal safety plan. Crises can happen unexpectedly while traveling or living abroad, and a good plan helps you think through potential scenarios and determine in advance the best course of action.

·      Refer to our website for the latest Security Alerts.

·      Enroll or re-enroll in the Department of State’sSmart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency.

·      Ensure you have a valid U.S. passport for short-notice travel; visit our website to schedule a passport appointment.

·      Avoid any demonstrations and large gatherings, and areas where there is a heavy police presence.

·      Monitor official information sources.

·      Follow the instructions of local authorities.

Iranian drones hit US Embassy in Saudi Arabia

The U.S. Department of State urges Americans to depart now from the countries below using available commercial transportation, due to serious safety risks. 

Americans who need State Department assistance arranging to depart via commercial means, CALL US 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. and Canada). ENROLL in <a href="https://t.co/tn90vcTuHc" target="_blank">http://step.state.gov</a> to get the latest security updates from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Americans urged to leave more than a dozen Middle Eastern countries

🎥 Under oath: Bill and Hillary Clinton's testimony on Jeffrey Epstein

WASHINGTON – As of 4 pm ET, March 2, six U.S. service members have been killed in action, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

 U.S. forces recently recovered the remains of two previously unaccounted for service members from a facility that was struck during Iran's initial attacks in the region.  

Major combat operations continue. The identities of the fallen are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notification.

US military: Death toll from Iran operation has risen to 6

🎥President Trump updates timeline of Iran campaign 

U.S. embassies in the Middle East updated security advisories for Americans traveling and residing in these regions to exercise caution amid the ongoing Iran conflict, according to the&nbsp;Department of State Consular Affairs.

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs provides detailed destination-specific travel and risk information to allow U.S. citizens to make informed international travel decisions. U.S. embassies and consulates across the globe provide services that support the welfare and protection of U.S. citizens abroad.

<a href="https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html">Click here</a> to get the latest updates and enroll to receive alerts directly at <a href="https://t.co/tn90vcSWRE" target="_blank">http://step.state.gov</a>. Americans who need consular help can reach help 24/7 by phone: +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. and Canada).

3 countries designated with a ‘Do Not Travel For Any Reason’ warning

🎥Pentagon officials answer questions on Iran strikes

WASHINGTON. – As of 7:30 am ET, March 2, four U.S. service members have been killed in action, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

 The fourth service member, who was seriously wounded during Iran’s initial attacks, eventually succumbed to their injuries. 

Major combat operations continue and our response effort is ongoing.

The identities of the fallen are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notification.

Fourth US soldier dies in Operation Epic Fury

By: Con Marshall CSC Sports Information

CHADRON, Neb. – The Chadron State men's basketball team ended its season on a high note Saturday afternoon by pulling a 107-95 victory out of the fire in overtime versus the Westminster Griffins in the Chicoine Center.

In short, the Eagles dominated the first half by a 50-30 margin and the Griffins dominated the second half 56-36, thus tying the score 86-86 at the end of regulation. But the Eagles led all the way in overtime while outscoring the visitors 21-9 in the extra period. 

Both teams lived and died by the three-pointer. Chadron State was 11 of 18 from three-point range in the first half while Westminster was 1 of 15. The shoe was on the other foot in the second half when the Griffins were 7 of 16 from behind the arc and the Eagles were 2 of 14. Neither team made a trey in overtime, when CSC was 0-2 and the visitors 0-8 from long range.

Chadron State's three seniors who were saluted prior to the game were among the Eagles' heroes.  They joined forces to tally 64 points. 

Zach Smith nailed five of six three-point shots to lead the Eagles in the opening half when they built their 20-point intermission lead. He didn't make any three-pointers in the second half, but added a dunk and finished with a career-high 24 points.

Isaiah Randolph was the game's leading scorer with 25 points, including nine in overtime when he made seven of eight free throws, several of them when he was fouled while relentlessly driving to the basket. Overall, Randolph was 13-17 at the line.  

Blessing Adesipe ended with 15 points that included six crucial points from CSC's only second half treys after Westminster had fought its way back into the game.

The Eagles had another double-digit scorer in junior Jadon Cool. He finished with 19 points that included a driving layup and a putback in the space of 23 seconds to give CSC some breathing room in overtime.

After Chadron State jumped out to leads of 8-0 and 13-2, Westminster was never in contention in the first half. Slowly but surely, the Griffins whittled on what had seemed to be the Eagles' insurmountable lead and went ahead for the first time at 74-73 with seven minutes left to play.

Cool's layup and Adesipe's second trey of the half reclaimed the lead, but the Griffins soon scored five straight points to go ahead again 81-78 with 2:44 remaining.

After the Eagles regained the lead on a layup by Luka Djurovic and Smith's two free throws, the Utah team was never ahead again, but with 18 seconds left the Griffins' leading scorer with 20 points, 5-10 sophomore Nick Holland, tied the count at 86 with an off-balance field goal and a free throw that he was awarded for being fouled on the shot.

Chadron State ran the clock down and launched a 3-pointer at the buzzer, but it failed to connect. A basket by Smith on the Eagles' opening possession in OT gave them the lead and they never relinquished it.

Saturday marked the Eagles' only overtime game this season. They finished with a 7-21 record and a 5-15 RMAC mark. They also topped the Griffins 73-67 in Salt Lake City on January 22. Westminster ends its schedule at 12-16 overall and 7-13 in the RMAC. 

Westminster—Nick Holland 20, Michael Frazier 18, Cole Kadoguchi 18, Cameron Kohn 12, Colin Hayes 11, Jonah El-Farra 8, Jack Mamele 6, Boston Painter 2. Totals: 32-69 FG, (8-39 3PT), 23-30 FT, 95 points, 48 rebounds, 15 assists, 5 turnovers. 

CSC finishes season with OT win over Westminster (UT)

🏀 Boys Subdistrict Match-Ups; Local Girls B Subdistricts &amp; C/D District Finals Details &amp; Scoreboards

Boys District Finals - February 28 &amp; March 2, 3 FINAL | C1-1 #1 Ogallala 90,&nbsp;#16 Columbus Lakeview 32 FINAL | C1-5 #12 Lincoln Christian 65 Bridgeport 55 C2-3: #14 Hemingford at #3 Valentine - 5:00 MT C2-6: #11 Pender at #6 Kimball - 5:00 MT FINAL | D2-1:&nbsp; Elgin Public/Pope John 77, Potter-Dix 54 D2-2: #15 Mullen at #2 Archangels Catholic D2-8: #9 Leyton at #8 Falls City Sacred Heart - 4:00 MT&nbsp;&nbsp;

Girls C/D District Championships - Friday, February 27 FINAL |C1-7: #7 Fort Calhoun 60,&nbsp;#10 Bridgeport 51 FINAL |C1-4: #4 Ogallala 62,&nbsp;#13 Louisville 43 FINAL |D2-1: #1 Dundy County-Stratton 71,&nbsp;#16 Potter-Dix 15 FINAL |D2-4: #13 Loomis 55, #4 Mullen 48 FINAL |D2-8: #9 Archangels Catholic 58, Hay Springs 32

Girls B-5 District FINAL | FEB 23: #4 Omaha Mercy 70,&nbsp;#5 Ralston 29 FINAL | FEB 25: #1 Sidney 57, Omaha Mercy 36 FINAL | Championship: Sidney 75, Gretna 71 OT

Girls B-7 District FINAL |FEB 25: #1 Scottsbluff 58,&nbsp;#4 McCook 35 FINAL |FEB 25: #2 Blair 54,&nbsp;#3 Lincoln Standing Bear 33 FINAL | Championship: Scottsbluff 51, Blair 47

Boys C1-10 Subdistrict at Ogallala FINAL | FEB 23: #4 Sidney 61,&nbsp;#5 Mitchell 27 FINAL | FEB 23: #3 Chase County 59, #6 Chadron 45 FINAL | FEB 24: #1 Ogallala 83, Sidney 52 FINAL | FEB 24: #2 Bridgeport 54, Chase County 50 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship Ogallala 85, Bridgeport 44

Boys C2-10 Subdistrict at Kimball FINAL | FEB 23: #5 Perkins County 48, #4 Dundy County-Stratton 46 FINAL | FEB 23: #3 Hemingford 49,&nbsp;#6 Gordon-Rushville 41 FINAL | FEB 24: #1 Kimball 81, Perkins County 48 FINAL | FEB 24: #2 Valentine 85, Hemingford 61 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship - Valentine 69,&nbsp;Kimball&nbsp; 66

Boys D1-12 Subdistrict at McDaid Elementary in North Platte FINAL | FEB 23: #4 Maxwell 66,&nbsp;#5 Morrill vs 8 FINAL | FEB 24: #1 North Platte St. Pat's 71, Maxwell 41 FINAL | FEB 24: #2 Maywood-Hayes Center 62, #3 Hitchcock County 45 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship - M-HC 58,&nbsp;NPSP 53

Boys D2-12 Subdistrict at Mullen FINAL | FEB 23: #4 Crawford 50,&nbsp;#5 Hay Springs 48 FINAL | FEB 24: #1 Mullen 69, Crawford 47 FINAL | FEB 24: #3 Cody-Kilgore 58, Hyannis 47 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship - Mullen 53, Cody-Kilgore 51

Boys D2-11 Subdistrict at Bayard FINAL | FEB 24: #1 Bayard 53,&nbsp;#4 Banner County 24 FINAL | FEB 24: #2 Potter-Dix 63,&nbsp;#3 Minatare 36 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship - Potter-Dix 43,&nbsp;Bayard 39

Boys D2-10 Subdistrict at Leyton FINAL | FEB 24: #1 Leyton 69,&nbsp;#4 Creek Valley 33 FINAL | FEB 24:#2 Garden County 75,&nbsp; #3 South Platte 34 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship - Leyton 45, Garden County 43

Girls B-1 District FINAL | FEB 23: #5 Plattsmouth 51, #4 Alliance 27 Girls B-6 District FINAL | FEB 25: ##2 Omaha Skutt 60, #3 Gering 37

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