ALLIANCE, Neb. -&nbsp;The City of Alliance Nebraska City Council met to discuss a pool of applicants to be the next City Manager in Alliance. They decided to invite four members of that pool to become finalists to be invited for a two day in-person interview process. All four have accepted that invitation. Those finalists are JD Cox, Lou Leone, David Wise and David Wulf.

JD Cox is the current City Manager in Douglas, Wyoming. He has had city manager stints in Florida, Oklahoma and Kansas and served as the previous City Manager in Alliance from 2011-2016. Mr. Cox holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Kansas and an MBA from the University of Mississippi. He is an ICMA-Credentialed Manager.

Lou Leone most previously served as the City Administrator in Harvard, IL. However, he has served as the city manager in Nebraska City, NE and has ties to the area. He has also been a manager in communities in Wisconsin and Kansas. Mr. Leone holds a bachelor’s in business from Milliken University in Decatur, IL and a master’s in public administration from the University of Colorado-Denver. He is an ICMA-Credentialed Manager.

David Wise was most recently the Business Administrator in Penns Grove, NJ. He has also served as an Assistant City Administrator in Walsenburg, CO and as an intern for the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. He has a background in Planning and Zoning serving as the Director of the department in Roanoke Rapids, NC. Mr. Wise holds a bachelor’s degree in art history from St. Ambrose University. He also holds master’s degrees in Historic Preservation, Urban and Regional Planning and in Public Administration from the University of Colorado-Denver.

David Wulf recently completed service as the Deputy and Acting Superintendent of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy with the rank of Rear Admiral. He has a long career in the federal government serving the Department of Treasury, Homeland Security and in the Department of Justice, Bureau of the ATF in many different leadership capacities. He has a bachelor’s degree in government and history from Georgetown University as well as a Juris Doctor degree from Emory University.

The interview process is tentatively scheduled for February 18 and 19. There will be a meet and greet hosted where the public will be invited to attend to meet these candidates in person. That schedule will be updated as soon as it is finalized.

Alliance City Manager Finalists Announced

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

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

By Nebraska Department of Correctional Services

LINCOLN, Neb. –&nbsp;Authorities have been notified about an inmate missing from the Community Corrections Center – Lincoln (CCC-L).&nbsp;Sarah Mangloack left her work detail position in Lincoln this afternoon and did not return to CCC-L.

Mangloack started her sentence on Sept. 26, 2025. She was sentenced to three years out of Lancaster County for terrorist threats. She has a tentative release date of Oct. 14, 2026.

Mangloack is&nbsp;a 25-year-old female, 5-foot-8, 170 lbs with brown eyes and brown hair. Anyone with&nbsp;knowledge of her whereabouts is asked to contact local authorities or the Nebraska State Patrol.

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.

Inmate Missing from Community Corrections Facility

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;- Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Breanna D. Flaherty of Columbus as county court judge in the Fifth Judicial District. That district includes Boone, Butler, Colfax, Hamilton, Merrick, Nance, Platte, Polk, Saunders, Seward and York counties. The vacancy is due to the retirement of Judge C. Jo Petersen.

Flaherty is presently the Platte County Attorney. She has been in that office since 2012, having also served as a deputy and chief deputy in that office. Flaherty is also an adjunct instructor at Central Community College where she has taught criminal law, criminal procedure and other related topics at the Columbus campus.

Flaherty is currently a board member of both the Centro Hispano Comunitario de Nebraska and the Columbus Optimist Club. She has served several state organizations including the Nebraska Coalition for Juvenile Justice, County Attorney Standards Advisory Council and the Nebraska Children’s Commission. Flaherty is also a mock trial attorney coach for Scotus Catholic School.

Flaherty received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Wayne State University, a master’s degree in forensic science from Nebraska Wesleyan University and her juris doctor from the University of Nebraska College of Law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Appoints Flaherty as County Court Judge in Fifth Judicial District

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Super Bowl Wager!

ALLIANCE, Neb.&nbsp;– Alliance Public Transit will be holding a public hearing on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Alliance Learning Center Community Meeting Room, 1750 Sweetwater Avenue, Alliance, Nebraska. This hearing is for the purpose of receiving public input on proposed changes to fares for the City of Alliance Public Transit service.

Proposed fare changes include In-city boardings (one way) increasing from $1 to $2 per boarding; Airport boardings (one way) increasing from $5 to $7 per boarding.

City of Alliance Public Transit is open to the public. City of Alliance Public Transit will make every reasonable accommodation to provide an accessible meeting facility for all people. Appropriate provisions will be made for the hearing and visually challenged or persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). This project will continue to take into consideration the special needs of the elderly and/or persons with disabilities.

Written or verbal comments will be accepted during the public hearing or ten days following the hearing date, Feb. 23, 2026. During the hearing, interested individuals or agencies will be given the opportunity to present their views on the social, economic, and environmental impacts of the proposed fare changes. A copy of the proposed fare adjustment is available for public inspection at the City of Alliance Public Transit office, located at 106 Cody Avenue in Alliance, Nebraska.

Written comments or requests must be submitted to Megan Smith, Alliance Public Transit, PO Box D, Alliance, NE 69301, by email to msmith@cityofalliance.net, or via telephone at (308) 762-7433.

For more information, please contact the Public Transit office at (308) 762-7433.

City of Alliance Public Transit Notice of Public Hearing

KEARNEY, Neb.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested one person after finding 12 pounds of suspected methamphetamine during a traffic stop on I-80.

Tuesday, at approximately 10:30 a.m., a trooper saw a Toyota Camry speeding at over 100 miles per hour on Interstate 80 near Kearney. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.

A search of the vehicle revealed 12 pounds of suspected methamphetamine hidden inside the body of the car. The driver, George Watson, 50-years-old, of Poplar Grove, Illinois, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession with intent to deliver, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was lodged in Buffalo County Jail.

Troopers Find Methamphetamine in I-80 Traffic Stop

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College celebrated the grand opening of its new Health Sciences facility with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Jan. 26, marking a major milestone in the college’s commitment to healthcare education and workforce development in western Nebraska.

College leadership, faculty, students, community partners and local officials gathered to commemorate the opening of the state-of-the-art facility, which will expand hands-on learning opportunities for students pursuing careers in healthcare.

"WNCC believes very strongly that we can help lead healthcare in this region," WNCC President Greg Dart said. "These students are the future of healthcare in this region. We wanted to give them a space that's just as magnificent as each of them."

The new Health Sciences facility features simulation labs, instructional classrooms and collaborative learning spaces, designed to support all of WNCC's Health Sciences programs, including nursing, emergency medical services, health information technology, medical laboratory technology and surgical technology. The space allows students to practice hands-on skills, while still in a learning environment, before entering the workforce.

"Having dedicated classrooms and lab spaces for each group allows us to learn in environments tailored to what we do best," Avery Davies, an Associate Degree Nursing student said. "It means more focused instruction, stronger collaboration within our cohorts and a deeper sense of belonging within our programs."

The project was largely funded by funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), totaling approximately $9 million. Wilkins ADP served the project as the lead architect and Beckenhauer Construction led as the contractor and construction manager at-risk.

For more information about WNCC’s Health Sciences programs, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://wncc.edu/" target="_blank">wncc.edu</a>

WNCC Celebrates Health Sciences Project with Grand Opening

Jessi Laine to perform in Sidney 

Gabriel The Brute to play in Scottsbluff

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

The Greendales will perform at Flyover Brewery in Scottsbluff on Saturday, Jan. 8 from 6pm - 9pm.&nbsp;

The Greendales to play in Scottsbluff

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

Carbon monoxide is often called a silent killer — and for good reason. The colorless, odorless gas cannot be seen or smelled, yet exposure can be deadly. The good news: carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable.

Each year in the United States, carbon monoxide poisoning sends tens of thousands of people to emergency rooms and claims hundreds of lives. Older adults, especially those age 65 and over, face the highest risk of serious illness or death from exposure.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is frequently mistaken for the flu, especially in its early stages. Symptoms may include headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness or fatigue, and confusion. Severe exposure can lead to loss of consciousness and can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Because symptoms can come on gradually, many people don’t realize they’re in danger until it’s too late.

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels do not burn completely. Common household and everyday sources include furnaces, fireplaces and space heaters, water heaters, gas clothes dryers, and stoves. Grills, generators, power tools, and vehicles that burn fossil fuels can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, especially when used improperly or in enclosed spaces.

If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, get to fresh air immediately. Call 911 or seek emergency medical care right away.

Poison Center healthcare professionals are available around the clock to help manage carbon monoxide exposures and determine whether emergency services are needed.

Simple precautions can dramatically reduce the risk of exposure. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and replace batteries every six months. Learn to recognize early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and have all fuel-burning appliances inspected and maintained regularly.

Make sure heaters and appliances are properly vented to the outside. Never use charcoal grills, hibachis, or generators indoors. Do not use gas ovens or ranges to heat your home. Never leave a vehicle running in an attached garage — even with the garage door open — and avoid sitting in a running vehicle if snow or mud is blocking the exhaust pipe. Generators should always be run outdoors and far away from windows and doors.

The Nebraska Poison Center provides education, safety tips, and expert guidance on carbon monoxide exposure and poison prevention.

When you call 1-800-222-1222, you’ll be connected immediately with a registered nurse or pharmacist — available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. Awareness saves lives.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Know the Danger, Prevent the Risk

DAMASCUS – U.S. forces conducted five strikes against multiple ISIS targets across Syria, Jan. 27 – Feb. 2, as partner forces continue to apply military pressure to ensure the enduring defeat of the terrorist network, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

CENTCOM forces located and destroyed an ISIS communication site, critical logistics node, and weapons storage facilities with 50 precision munitions delivered by fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and unmanned aircraft.

“Striking these targets demonstrates our continued focus and resolve for preventing an ISIS resurgence in Syria,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander. “Operating in coordination with coalition and partner forces to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS makes America, the region and the world safer.”

U.S. and partner forces launched Operation Hawkeye Strike in response to a Dec. 13 attack on U.S. and Syrian forces in Palmyra. The ISIS ambush resulted in the death of two U.S. service members and an American interpreter.

After nearly two months of targeted operations, more than 50 ISIS terrorists have been killed or captured. CENTCOM forces killed Bilal Hasan al-Jasim during a deliberate strike in northwest Syria on Jan. 16. The terrorist leader was directly connected with the ISIS gunman responsible for the Dec. 13 attack.

U.S. forces strike more ISIS targets in Syria

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://statesnewsroom.com/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — A federal judge this week closed the lawsuit Planned Parenthood filed last summer after Republicans’ “big, beautiful” law blocked Medicaid patients from visiting its clinics for any health care appointments for one year.&nbsp;

Planned Parenthood filed notice with the court Friday that it had dismissed “without prejudice all claims against” the Trump administration in the case. Massachusetts District Court Judge Indira Talwani issued an electronic order Monday closing the case “Pursuant to Plaintiffs’ Notice of Voluntary Dismissal without Prejudice.”

The law prevents people on Medicaid from being seen at Planned Parenthood facilities through early July, when the one-year period would expire.

Planned Parenthood Federation of America President and CEO Alexis McGill Johnson wrote in a statement released last week that President Donald Trump “and his allies in Congress have weaponized the federal government to target Planned Parenthood at the expense of patients —&nbsp; stripping people of the care they rely on.&nbsp;

“Through every attack, Planned Parenthood has never lost sight of its focus: ensuring patients can get the care they need from the provider they trust. That will never change. Care continues, as does our commitment to fighting for everyone’s freedom to make their own decisions about their bodies, lives, and futures.”

The Department of Justice did not immediately respond to a request for comment from States Newsroom.&nbsp;

Talwani&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/one-big-beautiful-law-provision-planned-parenthood-funding-partly-blocked-judge" target="_blank">originally ruled for Planned Parenthood</a>&nbsp;in the case, temporarily blocking the defunding provision from taking effect. But an appeals court&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/appeals-court-allows-provision-freezing-medicaid-funding-planned-parenthood" target="_blank">later overturned that decision</a>, allowing the Trump administration to legally withhold Medicaid funding from going to Planned Parenthood.&nbsp;

Talwani was nominated by former President Barack Obama.

The provision in Republicans’ “big, beautiful” law that blocks all Medicaid funding from going to Planned Parenthood was originally slated to last for a decade, but the final version covered one year.&nbsp;

Federal law for decades has barred spending from covering abortions with limited exceptions for rape, incest, or the woman’s life.&nbsp;

So the new language prevented Medicaid patients from scheduling appointments at Planned Parenthood for other types of health care, like annual physicals, cancer screenings, or birth control appointments.&nbsp;

Shireen Ghorbani, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Association of Utah, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/planned-parenthood-sues-trump-administration-officials-over-defunding-provision-budget-bill" target="_blank">filed the lawsuit</a>&nbsp;along with Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts and Planned Parenthood Federation of America, wrote in a statement that its health care providers would “continue to see patients and deliver on our mission to provide high-quality care and education to everyone who needs it, no matter where they live or how much money they make.”&nbsp;

A Planned Parenthood spokesperson, who did not want to comment on the record, said that certain clinics may choose to cover the cost of treating Medicaid patients, even though the clinic will not receive reimbursement from the federal government under the law.&nbsp;

Angela Vasquez-Giroux, vice president of communications at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, wrote in a statement that the organization’s “health centers initially shielded the overwhelming majority of patients who rely on Medicaid from the harm of this cruel law. Unfortunately, the consequences for patients will worsen considerably over time as health centers close, costs rise, and access to their trusted provider is pushed further out of reach.”

Planned Parenthood ends suit against Trump admin. over serving Medicaid patients

🎥'Today' show host asks kidnapper to provide proof mother is alive

Port-au-Prince —At the direction of the Secretary of War, three U.S. warships including the USS Stockdale, USCGC Stone and USCGC Diligence have arrived in the Bay of Port-au-Prince as part of Operation Southern Spear, according to a statement from the U.S. Embassy Haiti.

"Their presence reflects the United States’ unwavering commitment to the security, stability, and a brighter future for the Republic of Haiti. The U.S. Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard reaffirm their partnership and support to ensure a safer and more prosperous Haiti."

US Warships arrive off Haiti in campaign against drug traffickers

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.

Chadron State came into the game shooting 35.7 percent from the field but hit just 28.1 percent (16-57) in this game. Colorado Christian made 54.1 percent (33-61) of its field goal attempts and also out-rebounded the Eagles 43-26.

Wagner, a 5-foot-5 native of Fort Collins, was 7-for-16 from the field and made 1 of 2 free throws. Dreanna Jackson, who was the only player on either team to make more than one three-pointer, scored eight points for CSC and Audrey Quintana added six, but none of the other team members had more than four.

In addition to her 15 points, Wagner's six rebounds were the second-best in a game in her college career. The freshman's six steals are a single-game high by an Eagle player this season and is tied for the third-most in a game by an RMAC player.

The Cougars were led by Ezra Simonich, a 5-10 freshman from Littleton, another Denver suburb, with 19 points on 7-of-9 field goal shooting that included one three-pointer and making 4-of-5 from the line.  She also was the game's leading rebounder with seven. Each team finished with four treys. 

The Cougars' top scorer for the season with a 12.4 point average, Jordan Heckert, a 5-8 senior from Rapid City, tallied 17 points, 13 of them in the second period. Maley Wilhelm also reached double-digits with 10 points. 

The hosts are now 6-15 for the season and 3-10 in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. The Eagles fell to 1-17 and are 1-12 in the conference. They have another chance at their second win when they visit CSU Pueblo at 1 p.m. Saturday afternoon.   

Chadron State—Kenna Wagner 15, Dreanna Jackson 8, Audrey Quintana 6, Ella Moser 4, Bianca Bindzus 3, McKenzi Petersen 2, Amya Winfrey 2, Teryn Stokes 2, Jordyn Stokes 1. Totals: 16-57 FG (4-27 3PT) 7-12 FT, 43 points, 26 rebounds, 4 assists, 23 turnovers.

Colorado Christian—Ezra Simonich 19, Jordon Heckert 17, Maley Wilhelm 10, Josie Grosdidier 9, Hayley Luther 7, Elise Gosdidier 7, Nicole Burns 5, Addison Wragge 4, Angelina Kohlwales 4, Faith Ramsey 2. Totals: 33-61FG (4-16 3PT) 14-21 FT, 84 points, 43 rebounds, 11 assists, 17 turnovers.

Chadron State                 9          14           11          9       ----43

Big night for CSC freshman a bright spot in 41-point loss at Colorado Christian

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 vs #7 Hemingford - 11:00 - at WNCC Semis: #1 Bridgeport vs #4 Mitchell - 2:00 - at WNCC Semis: #2 Morrill vs #3 Kimball - 3:30 - at WNCC

Boys Day Two - Friday, February 6 #6 Gordon-Rushville vs #7 Morrill - 12:30 - at WNCC Semis: #1 Kimball vs #5 Mitchell - 5:00 - at WNCC Semis: #2 Bridgeport vs #3 Hemingford - 6:30 - at WNCC

Final Day - Saturday, February 7 Girls 5th Place Game - 11:00 - at WNCC Boys 5th Place Game - 12:30 - at WNCC Girls 3rd Place Game - 2:00 - at WNCC Boys 3rd Place Game - 3:30 - at WNCC Girls Championship - 5:00 - at WNCC Boys Championship - 6:30 - at WNCC

🏀 Western Trails Conference Basketball Tournament - Scores & Schedule

CHADRON, Neb. – The Chadron State football program has announced 39 new additions to the Eagle roster as part of their 2026 National Signing Day class. 

Chadron State has signed 32 high school student-athletes on Wednesday who will join the team in fall 2026. Additionally, CSC has brought in seven transfers who are joining the team for spring ball. 

"We brought in young men who are athletic, excel in the classroom, compete at a championship level and fit our culture," head coach Jay Long said. "This group gives us a strong foundation for the future of Eagle football." 

The high school Signing Day class features 11 players from Colorado, seven from South Dakota, six apiece from Nebraska and Wyoming and one each from Texas and Kansas. The freshman class features 13 offensive players and 19 defensive players, including 10 defensive linemen. 

The transfer class has a wider geographic footprint, with one Nebraska native but also three Californians and one player each from Arizona, Colorado and Florida. The seven-player transfer class includes two players with NCAA Division I experience and five offensive players. 

"We felt like we addressed our immediate needs with our transfers, and then focused on recruiting our core surrounding states," Long said. 

Here are <a href="https://chadroneagles.com/news/2026/2/4/football-eagles-add-39-on-signing-day.aspx">brief bios on each member</a> of the Chadron State 2026 Signing Day class.

Chadron State inks 39 on National Signing Day

ALLIANCE, Neb. - In this week's episode of the Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show, presented by Harris Sales in Alliance, Jake Schrantz visits with head boys varsity basketball coach, Jordan Mills. They break down Alliance's performance in last week's Western Conference Tournament, as well as the upcoming weekend back-to-back against Scottsbluff and McCook.

Then, voice of Scottsbluff athletics, Chris Cottrell, joins the show to break down the Bearcats' tournament win in the Western Conference bracket ahead of the Friday night matchup against Alliance.

Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show - 02/04/26 (Boys Hoops & Scottsbluff's Chris Cottrell)

🏀 High School Basketball Scoreboard - 1/29

🏀 High School Basketball Scoreboard - 1/29

RAPID CITY, S.D. – Chadron State scored its third-highest point total of the season and freshman Ella Moser poured in a career-high 20 points, but South Dakota Mines made 13 three-pointers as the Hardrockers defeated the Eagles 76-59 on Thursday evening in Rapid City. 

South Dakota Mines (7-12, 5-6 RMAC) shot 48 percent from the field (26-54, its second-best percentage of the season) and 46 percent from three-point range (13-28, its best percentage of the season) against the Eagles (1-15, 1-11 RMAC). 

Moser became the third Eagle this season with a 20-point game, joining McKenzi Petersen (20 points against Adams State on 1/15) and Audrey Quintana (22 points against Westminster on 1/12).

The freshman from Cedar Rapids, Iowa made 7 of 14 shot attempts, including 4 of 8 three-pointers, and made both free throw attempts. Thursday marked Moser's fifth career double-figure scoring performance. 

In another sign of growth for the Eagles, CSC committed just eight turnovers, 10 more than their previous season-low of 18. South Dakota Mines committed 10, marking just the second time this season that the Eagles won the turnover battle.

McKenzi Petersen joined Moser in double figures against the Hardrockers, scoring 11 points on 5 of 8 shooting with six rebounds. Dreanna Jackson and Audrey Quintana had eight points each, with Quintana corralling a team-high seven rebounds. Kenna Wagner led the team with five assists and three steals. 

The Hardrockers jumped out to a 17-5 lead on the strength of making five of their first six three-point attempts. Moser answered with two threes of her own in the quarter, the second of which came with three seconds left and cut the deficit to 21-10. 

The Eagles fought back, outscoring SDM 17-15 in the second period. Moser began the frame by hitting another jumper and a three to cut the lead down to six, having scored 13 of the team's 15 points at that point. A Quintana layup, which made it 22-19 with 4:38 to go in the first half, was the first basket by anyone not named Moser or Petersen for the Eagles. 

That three-point margin would also be the closest Chadron State would get to the lead. The Hardrockers led by nine at halftime and opened the second half on a 12-3 run to open up an 18-point cushion. South Dakota Mines outscored CSC 23-14 in the third quarter, making the margin too steep for the Eagles despite outscoring the home team 18-17 in the final frame.

South Dakota Mines narrowly outrebounded the Eagles 32-31. The Hardrockers received a game-high 24 points from Addison Miranda. 

After playing four games in eight days, Chadron State has a full week of rest before its next game on Thursday, February 5 against Colorado Christian.

Chadron State—Ella Moser 20, McKenzi Petersen 11, Audrey Quintana 8, Dreanna Jackson 8, Kenna Wagner 5, Alex Ridenour 3, Evelyn Old Coyote 2, Teryn Stokes 2. Totals: 21-60 FG (9-29 3PT) 8-12 FT. 59 points, 31 rebounds, 14 assists, 8 turnovers.

​South Dakota Mines—Addison Miranda 24, Morning Grace Spotted Bear 11, Savea Mansfield 11, Carolina Ruiz Molina 9, Megan Alexander 9, Emma Martin 5, Alexis Backhaus 4, Lauren Herman 3. Totals: 26-54 FG (13-28 3PT) 11-14 FT. 76 points, 32 rebounds, 20 assists, 10 turnovers.

CSC freshman Moser sets another career high scoring mark at SD Mines

RAPID CITY, S.D. – Chadron State shot a blistering 70 percent from the field in the second half, Isaiah Randolph and Mack Keighran scored 22 points apiece, and Chadron State men's basketball earned a key rivalry win against South Dakota Mines, prevailing 88-79 in Rapid City on Thursday night. 

The win, which came in Chadron State's fourth game in the past eight days, improves CSC's record to 5-15 overall and 3-9 in RMAC play. South Dakota Mines drops to 9-10 overall and 6-5 in the RMAC. 

The Eagles, who led 36-33 at halftime, shot 56.9 percent from the floor for the game and 57.1 percent from three-point range. In the second half alone, the Eagles made 21 of 30 field goal attempts (70 percent) and 7 of 11 long-range shots (63.6 percent). 

The Hardrockers were no slouches on offense either, shooting 48.4 percent from the field for the game and 62 percent in the second half themselves, but it wasn't enough to keep pace with the Chadron State attack.

Chadron State had a three-headed monster of Randolph and Keighran with 22 each plus Jadon Cool with 18 points. All three were lethally efficient – Randolph shot 9-for-15 from the floor while Keighran was 8-for-12 and Cool was 7-for-13. 

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