The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is delaying action on a set of restrictions that would drastically limit overnight campers and beachgoers at Nebraska's largest reservoir, Lake McConaughy in western Nebraska. 

Commission Director Jim Douglas said Saturday that additional time is needed to consider the suggestions offered by hundreds of people who showed up for a hearing on the proposed rules. 

Most people at Thursday's meeting said they wanted more law enforcement and greater attention to checkpoints, not limits on access to the lake. 

The proposed restrictions were developed following complaints about overcrowding and rowdy behavior last Fourth of July.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579490212800.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Alex Perez" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Alex Perez</figcaption>
 </figure>The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is delaying action on a set of restrictions that would drastically limit overnight campers and beachgoers at Nebraska's largest reservoir, Lake McConaughy in western Nebraska. Commission Director Jim Douglas said Saturday that additional time is needed to consider the suggestions offered by hundreds of people who showed up for a hearing on the proposed rules. Most people at Thursday's meeting said they wanted more law enforcement and greater attention to checkpoints, not limits on access to the lake. The proposed restrictions were developed following complaints about overcrowding and rowdy behavior last Fourth of July.&nbsp;

Lake McConaughy restrictions delayed after public outcry

RSVP’s is having a Martin Luther King Jr. Day food drive, starting on Monday, Jan. 20 through Friday, Jan. 24. 

Volunteers will be at the Alliance Grocery Kart from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. accepting donations.&nbsp; 

Donations will also be accepted at the Alliance Senior Center, 212 Yellowstone Avenue. All donated items will be taken to local food pantries.

Please contact RSVP and Handyman Director Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293 with questions.&nbsp;

RSVP’s is having a Martin Luther King Jr. Day food drive, starting on Monday, Jan. 20 through Friday, Jan. 24. Volunteers will be at the Alliance Grocery Kart from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. accepting donations.&nbsp; Donations will also be accepted at the Alliance Senior Center, 212 Yellowstone Avenue. All donated items will be taken to local food pantries.Please contact RSVP and Handyman Director Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293 with questions.&nbsp;

Alliance RSVP holding food drive 

Authorities in southwestern Nebraska say two Elwood men accused of repeatedly throwing a dog into an ice-covered lake have been charged with animal cruelty. 

The Gosper County Sheriff's Office says 28-year-old James Pollock and 19-year-old Austin Vanburen were charged Jan. 7 after the office received calls reporting a video posted to social media showing Pollock throwing the year-old Labrador onto the lake, causing it to land on its back and break through the ice.

 The dog was able to swim back to shore, but investigators say the men threw the dog into the take two more times. The dog was later examined and found to be uninjured.

Authorities in southwestern Nebraska say two Elwood men accused of repeatedly throwing a dog into an ice-covered lake have been charged with animal cruelty. The Gosper County Sheriff's Office says 28-year-old James Pollock and 19-year-old Austin Vanburen were charged Jan. 7 after the office received calls reporting a video posted to social media showing Pollock throwing the year-old Labrador onto the lake, causing it to land on its back and break through the ice. The dog was able to swim back to shore, but investigators say the men threw the dog into the take two more times. The dog was later examined and found to be uninjured.

Two men accused of throwing dog into ice-covered lake charged

The Nebraska State Patrol says a winter storm that raked the state Friday snarled traffic for hundreds of drivers and caused at least one death on Interstate 80. 

The patrol says that driver was killed around 11:30 a.m. Friday when the pickup truck he was driving eastbound near Hershey in western Nebraska spun out of control across the I-80 median and into the path of a semitrailer. 

The crash killed the pickup driver, 57-year-old Michael Krough of Colorado Springs, Colorado. 

The patrol says Friday's weather sent troopers to deal with more than 200 weather-related incidents.

The Nebraska State Patrol says a winter storm that raked the state Friday snarled traffic for hundreds of drivers and caused at least one death on Interstate 80. The patrol says that driver was killed around 11:30 a.m. Friday when the pickup truck he was driving eastbound near Hershey in western Nebraska spun out of control across the I-80 median and into the path of a semitrailer. The crash killed the pickup driver, 57-year-old Michael Krough of Colorado Springs, Colorado. The semi driver was not hurt. The patrol says Friday's weather sent troopers to deal with more than 200 weather-related incidents.

Winter storm blamed for at least 1 western NE crash fatality

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LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A state lawmaker who has fought for years to restrict human trafficking in Nebraska is now trying to hit traffickers in the wallet with a proposed sales tax on dating and escort services.

The bill introduced last week would eliminate a sales tax exemption for the services, which include legitimate dating websites as well as businesses that act as a front for prostitution and human trafficking. Money generated from the tax would go into an existing state fund to help pay for housing, therapy, health care and other services for human trafficking survivors.

The measure's sponsor said she learned about the tax break last year and was shocked that escort services receive it, given the Legislature's multi-year push to crackdown on human trafficking.

"It seems like a no-brainer," said Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, of Lincoln. The Legislature "has been very supportive of laws that protect victims of human trafficking, and I thought this would be a wonderful way to show that."

The tax exemption for escort services has been in places for decades, and its origins are unclear. An aide for Pansing Brooks said it appears that escort services haven't been required to pay Nebraska taxes because lawmakers never bothered to impose one on the industry.

Nebraska generally taxes goods that are sold but does not tax services, although there are dozens of exceptions carved into state law, according to the state Department of Revenue.

The department doesn't break down the exact amount of revenue the state forgoes because of the exemption, said Lydia Brasch, an agency spokeswoman. Escort and dating services are lumped into a broader "personal services" category that costs the state about $1 million a year in lost revenue but also includes services such as shoe-shining, wedding planning and bail bonding.

Even though getting rid of the exemption wouldn't generate much revenue, Pansing Brooks said the tax could become "one more arrow in the quiver" of prosecutors to bring charges against human traffickers when they can't prove a more serious crime but can show a failure to pay the tax. She pointed to the case of Al Capone, the notorious Prohibition-era Chicago gangster who went to prison for tax evasion.

The bill could face resistance, however, from conservatives who have promised to fight any potential tax increase. Gov. Pete Ricketts, who has previously supported efforts to stop human trafficking, reiterated last week that he'll oppose any measure that raises taxes.

Asked whether the governor has taken a position on Pansing Brooks' bill, Ricketts spokesman Taylor Gage said: "The governor's office does not comment on bills early in the legislative process. The governor has laid out no tax increases as one of the principles for his budget."

A spokeswoman for Attorney General Doug Peterson, a leading advocate in the state's fight against human trafficking, did not respond to an emailed request for comment. Pansing Brooks said she spoke with lawyers in the attorney general's office and doesn't believe they'll take a public position on her bill.

Lawmakers could debate a related bill as early as Tuesday, when they return to the Capitol. The measure by Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, of Omaha, would create a competitive grant program for groups that provide services to human trafficking victims, but money wouldn't be available until government or private sources step in to fund it.

Nebraska has enacted a series of laws since 2006 to increase penalties for traffickers, encourage victims to work with law enforcement and provide special training to people who are likely to encounter victims, such as hotel and truck stop workers.

But the state still has work to do to ensure that human trafficking victims receive the services they need to avoid falling back into a life a prostitution, said Tiffany Seibert Joekel, research and policy director for the Women's Fund of Omaha. Joekel said services are also important because they may encourage victims to work with law enforcement in the prosecution of their traffickers.

"We hope that funding is made available, and since there is some money available in this legislative session, we think that supporting survivors of human trafficking should be a priority," she said.

GRANT SCHULTE-Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A state lawmaker who has fought for years to restrict human trafficking in Nebraska is now trying to hit traffickers in the wallet with a proposed sales tax on dating and escort services.The bill introduced last week would eliminate a sales tax exemption for the services, which include legitimate dating websites as well as businesses that act as a front for prostitution and human trafficking. Money generated from the tax would go into an existing state fund to help pay for housing, therapy, health care and other services for human trafficking survivors.The measure's sponsor said she learned about the tax break last year and was shocked that escort services receive it, given the Legislature's multi-year push to crackdown on human trafficking."It seems like a no-brainer," said Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, of Lincoln. The Legislature "has been very supportive of laws that protect victims of human trafficking, and I thought this would be a wonderful way to show that."The tax exemption for escort services has been in places for decades, and its origins are unclear. An aide for Pansing Brooks said it appears that escort services haven't been required to pay Nebraska taxes because lawmakers never bothered to impose one on the industry.Nebraska generally taxes goods that are sold but does not tax services, although there are dozens of exceptions carved into state law, according to the state Department of Revenue.The department doesn't break down the exact amount of revenue the state forgoes because of the exemption, said Lydia Brasch, an agency spokeswoman. Escort and dating services are lumped into a broader "personal services" category that costs the state about $1 million a year in lost revenue but also includes services such as shoe-shining, wedding planning and bail bonding.Even though getting rid of the exemption wouldn't generate much revenue, Pansing Brooks said the tax could become "one more arrow in the quiver" of prosecutors to bring charges against human traffickers when they can't prove a more serious crime but can show a failure to pay the tax. She pointed to the case of Al Capone, the notorious Prohibition-era Chicago gangster who went to prison for tax evasion.The bill could face resistance, however, from conservatives who have promised to fight any potential tax increase. Gov. Pete Ricketts, who has previously supported efforts to stop human trafficking, reiterated last week that he'll oppose any measure that raises taxes.Asked whether the governor has taken a position on Pansing Brooks' bill, Ricketts spokesman Taylor Gage said: "The governor's office does not comment on bills early in the legislative process. The governor has laid out no tax increases as one of the principles for his budget."A spokeswoman for Attorney General Doug Peterson, a leading advocate in the state's fight against human trafficking, did not respond to an emailed request for comment. Pansing Brooks said she spoke with lawyers in the attorney general's office and doesn't believe they'll take a public position on her bill.Lawmakers could debate a related bill as early as Tuesday, when they return to the Capitol. The measure by Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, of Omaha, would create a competitive grant program for groups that provide services to human trafficking victims, but money wouldn't be available until government or private sources step in to fund it.Nebraska has enacted a series of laws since 2006 to increase penalties for traffickers, encourage victims to work with law enforcement and provide special training to people who are likely to encounter victims, such as hotel and truck stop workers.But the state still has work to do to ensure that human trafficking victims receive the services they need to avoid falling back into a life a prostitution, said Tiffany Seibert Joekel, research and policy director for the Women's Fund of Omaha. Joekel said services are also important because they may encourage victims to work with law enforcement in the prosecution of their traffickers."We hope that funding is made available, and since there is some money available in this legislative session, we think that supporting survivors of human trafficking should be a priority," she said.

Nebraska could tax escort services to hit human traffickers

LINCOLN — One person was killed in a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 80 Friday near Hershey. The fatal crash was among more than 200 weather-related incidents that troopers responded to Friday.

At approximately 11:30 a.m. CT Friday, a Ford Ranger pickup lost control while traveling eastbound on I-80 at mile marker 164, near Hershey. The pickup, driven by Michael Krough, 57, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, crossed the median and struck a westbound semi. Krough was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the semi was not injured. Weather conditions were a factor in the crash.

That crash was one 55 that troopers responded to on Friday. Troopers also performed 121 motorist assists from Friday into Saturday morning and assisted other agencies with 30 additional incidents.

Another crash, which occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m. CT Friday, resulted in the closure of eastbound lanes of I-80 for just over an hour near Kearney. A semi pulling double trailers lost control in icy conditions and overturned, blocking the eastbound lanes. Neither occupant of the semi was injured.

NSP continues to urge caution as temperatures are expected to stay near or below freezing for the next several days around much of the state. With the potential for refreezing on roadways, it is critical that motorists practice safe winter driving and never drive faster than conditions allow.

Should you become stranded during frigid temperatures, stay in your vehicle and call for help. Exposure in cold temperatures and extreme wind chills can become dangerous in a short time. Any motorist in need of assistance can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555. Emergencies should be reported to 911.&nbsp;

LINCOLN — One person was killed in a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 80 Friday near Hershey. The fatal crash was among more than 200 weather-related incidents that troopers responded to Friday.At approximately 11:30 a.m. CT Friday, a Ford Ranger pickup lost control while traveling eastbound on I-80 at mile marker 164, near Hershey. The pickup, driven by Michael Krough, 57, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, crossed the median and struck a westbound semi. Krough was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the semi was not injured. Weather conditions were a factor in the crash.That crash was one 55 that troopers responded to on Friday. Troopers also performed 121 motorist assists from Friday into Saturday morning and assisted other agencies with 30 additional incidents.Another crash, which occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m. CT Friday, resulted in the closure of eastbound lanes of I-80 for just over an hour near Kearney. A semi pulling double trailers lost control in icy conditions and overturned, blocking the eastbound lanes. Neither occupant of the semi was injured.NSP continues to urge caution as temperatures are expected to stay near or below freezing for the next several days around much of the state. With the potential for refreezing on roadways, it is critical that motorists practice safe winter driving and never drive faster than conditions allow.Should you become stranded during frigid temperatures, stay in your vehicle and call for help. Exposure in cold temperatures and extreme wind chills can become dangerous in a short time. Any motorist in need of assistance can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555. Emergencies should be reported to 911.&nbsp;

Fatal I-80 crash among 200 weather-related incidents Friday

Cheyenne East, WY 75, Scottsbluff 66 (OT)

<h2>Western Nebraska High School Basketball</h2>Friday Games, January 17GirlsBayard 51, Hemingford 38Chadron 51, Alliance 12Bridgeport 69, Kimball 43Cheyenne East, WY 75, Scottsbluff 66 (OT)Gering 50, Gordon-Rushville 39Sidney 59, Ogallala 40Cody-Kilgore 56, Hyannis 32Morrill 43, Minatare 18BoysHemingford 53, Bayard 47Alliance 73, Chadron 30Cheyenne East, WY 65, Scottsbluff 62Ogallala 85, Sidney 43Gering 50, Gordon-Rushville 42Kimball 49, Bridgeport 47Morrill 60, Minatare 27Leyton 55, Potter-Dix 47Hyannis 64, Cody-Kilgore 53Scoreboard - ThursdayBayard 53, Sioux County 50 (B)Sioux County 44, Bayard 41 (G)Crawford 53, Guernsey-Sunrise, WY 48 (B)Crawford 63, Guernsey-Sunrise, WY 10 (G)Mitchell 55, Torrington, WY 36 (B)Torrington, WY 56, Mitchell 50 (G)Paxton 69, Creek Valley 32 (B)Paxton 50, Creek Valley 33 (G)Wallace 60, South Platte 22 (B)South Platte 50, Wallace 41 (G)

🏀 High School Scores - Friday, January 17

By: John Murphy, CSC Sports Information

LAS VEGAS, N.M. -- The Chadron State women's basketball team outscored New Mexico Highlands 22-15 and shot 69.2 percent in the fourth quarter, helping them earn their first win of the new year, 72-65.

With the win, CSC improves to 4-15 overall and 2-8 in the conference and snaps a seven-game losing streak. The Cowgirls are now 1-14 and 0-12 in conference play.

The game was evenly matched through the first three quarters. After being down by one at the end of the first, the Eagles outscored the Cowgirls 23-16 in the second period, thanks to five three-pointers.

In the third, Highlands outscored CSC 17-11, tying the score at 50 entering the fourth. Chadron State opened the final period on a 14-1 scoring run, making their lead as high as 13. The Cowgirls chipped away at the Eagles lead but were unable to overcome the deficit.

Chadron State went 27-49 (55.1 percent) from the field, a season high, and were 10 of 22 from three, for 45.5 percent. They converted eight of their 13 free throws.

The Cowgirls shot 35.4 percent (23-65) from the field. 12 of their 34 three-pointers were good, five being from Maiah Rivas. Highlands finished seven of eight from the charity stripe.

The Eagles converted 16 turnovers, which the opponent turned into 12 points. CSC turned eight Cowgirl turnovers into four points.

Chadron State won the rebound battle 38 to 29.

Taryn Foxen and Melisa Kadic led CSC in scoring, with 15 apiece. Foxen had a team high eight rebounds, while Jori Peters finished with nine points and nine assists.

Kaitlyn Holl and Rivas each scored 18 for New Mexico Highlands. Desiree Forster also scored in double-figures, with 12.

The Eagles return to action tomorrow, as they visit CSU-Pueblo. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

By: John Murphy, CSC Sports InformationLAS VEGAS, N.M. -- The Chadron State women's basketball team outscored New Mexico Highlands 22-15 and shot 69.2 percent in the fourth quarter, helping them earn their first win of the new year, 72-65.With the win, CSC improves to 4-15 overall and 2-8 in the conference and snaps a seven-game losing streak. The Cowgirls are now 1-14 and 0-12 in conference play.The game was evenly matched through the first three quarters. After being down by one at the end of the first, the Eagles outscored the Cowgirls 23-16 in the second period, thanks to five three-pointers.In the third, Highlands outscored CSC 17-11, tying the score at 50 entering the fourth. Chadron State opened the final period on a 14-1 scoring run, making their lead as high as 13. The Cowgirls chipped away at the Eagles lead but were unable to overcome the deficit.Chadron State went 27-49 (55.1 percent) from the field, a season high, and were 10 of 22 from three, for 45.5 percent. They converted eight of their 13 free throws.The Cowgirls shot 35.4 percent (23-65) from the field. 12 of their 34 three-pointers were good, five being from Maiah Rivas. Highlands finished seven of eight from the charity stripe.The Eagles converted 16 turnovers, which the opponent turned into 12 points. CSC turned eight Cowgirl turnovers into four points.Chadron State won the rebound battle 38 to 29.Taryn Foxen and Melisa Kadic led CSC in scoring, with 15 apiece. Foxen had a team high eight rebounds, while Jori Peters finished with nine points and nine assists.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579364908450.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kaitlyn Holl and Rivas each scored 18 for New Mexico Highlands. Desiree Forster also scored in double-figures, with 12.The Eagles return to action tomorrow, as they visit CSU-Pueblo. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

Hot fourth quarter pushes CSC Eagles past NM Highlands

A new survey of bankers suggests the economy is growing in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states.

 The survey released Thursday showed that the overall index for rural parts of the region improved to 55.9 in January from December's 50.2. 

Any score above 50 suggests a growing economy. 

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss says hiring remains strong across the region. Bankers from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming were surveyed.

A new survey of bankers suggests the economy is growing in rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states. The survey released Thursday showed that the overall index for rural parts of the region improved to 55.9 in January from December's 50.2. Any score above 50 suggests a growing economy. Creighton University economist Ernie Goss says hiring remains strong across the region. Bankers from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming were surveyed.

Survey of Plains, Western bankers says rural economy growing

OGALLALA, Neb. (AP) - Hundreds of people showed up for a meeting at the Lake McConaughy Visitor Center in Ogallala to protest proposed changes that would drastically limit overnight campers and beachgoers at the lake.

The proposal discussed at Thursday's meeting came from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission following complaints about overcrowding and rowdy behavior last Fourth of July. 

The proposed changes, which would take effect later this year, are meant to lower attendance to address the overcrowding on the lake's beaches.

Under the plan, public access to boat ramps at McConaughy and neighboring Lake Ogallala would remain unchanged. But some stretches of the lake's 22 miles of beaches would be limited to day use, and all camping spaces would be reservation-only and be limited to 600, said Jim Swenson, Game and Parks' parks division administrator.

The proposal goes far beyond what locals and lake visitors had in mind when they called for change. Most people at Thursday's meeting said they wanted more law enforcement and greater attention to checkpoints, not a crackdown to limit access to the lake. Critics say the commission's plan would deliver an economic blow to local businesses.

But Swenson said explosive growth in the number of annual visitors to Lake McConaughy in recent years - from 500,000 in the 1990s to more than 1 million in 2012 to nearly 2 million last year - has forced officials to accelerate greater restrictions on beachfront and camping access.

"It's not just an issue of more law enforcement," Swenson said. "It's an issue that our infrastructure as it exists today isn't enough to handle the visitation that's occurring."

The changes proposed by Game and Parks are projected to lower estimated annual visits to between 400,000 and 700,000.

OGALLALA, Neb. (AP) - Hundreds of people showed up for a meeting at the Lake McConaughy Visitor Center in Ogallala to protest proposed changes that would drastically limit overnight campers and beachgoers at the lake.The proposal discussed at Thursday's meeting came from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission following complaints about overcrowding and rowdy behavior last Fourth of July. The proposed changes, which would take effect later this year, are meant to lower attendance to address the overcrowding on the lake's beaches.Under the plan, public access to boat ramps at McConaughy and neighboring Lake Ogallala would remain unchanged. But some stretches of the lake's 22 miles of beaches would be limited to day use, and all camping spaces would be reservation-only and be limited to 600, said Jim Swenson, Game and Parks' parks division administrator.The proposal goes far beyond what locals and lake visitors had in mind when they called for change. Most people at Thursday's meeting said they wanted more law enforcement and greater attention to checkpoints, not a crackdown to limit access to the lake. Critics say the commission's plan would deliver an economic blow to local businesses.But Swenson said explosive growth in the number of annual visitors to Lake McConaughy in recent years - from 500,000 in the 1990s to more than 1 million in 2012 to nearly 2 million last year - has forced officials to accelerate greater restrictions on beachfront and camping access."It's not just an issue of more law enforcement," Swenson said. "It's an issue that our infrastructure as it exists today isn't enough to handle the visitation that's occurring."The changes proposed by Game and Parks are projected to lower estimated annual visits to between 400,000 and 700,000.

Lake McConaughy patrons oppose changes to limit visitors

By: Con Marshall, CSC Sports Information

LAS VEGAS, N.M. -- January 17, 2020 -- Freshman guard Jalen Munn was scoreless until he made one of two free throws with less than two seconds remaining to tie the score at 92-92, then sank eight of 10 free shots in overtime to help New Mexico Highlands to a 109-101 win over Chadron State in a Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference game in Las Vegas on Friday night.

Free throws were the key to Highlands' victory.  Chadron State scored 76 points from the field compared to Highlands' 64, but the Cowboys were 45 of 63 at the line and Chadron State was 25 of 32 there while losing another tough one.  It was the Eagles' second overtime loss to go with three others by three or fewer points this season.

"We played well and kept up with a really talented team on its home floor tonight," Chadron State Coach Houston Reed said.  "There are a few little things we needed to do better, but it's unbelievable when a team gets 63 free throw

The game was tight all the way. Highlands was ahead by nine midway in the first half, but led by only 42-41 at halftime.  The Eagles were up 67-60 midway in the second half.  The difference was never more than three points during the final 9:36 of regulation.

The game's leading scorer with 33 points, Sammy Barnes-Thompkins, put Highlands ahead for the first time in more than two minutes at 91-90 when he sank jumper with 21 seconds remaining.

Barnes-Thompkins then promptly fouled out while trying to slow down CSC's point guard Colby Jackson, who was headed to the other end of the court with the ball.

Jackson made both free throws to give the visitors a one-point margin. With six seconds remaining, Highlands missed a shot, Munn got the rebound and a foul was called.  He hit the first charity toss, but missed the second. The Eagles grabbed the rebound, but time had expired.

The Eagles had the first shot in overtime, but missed.  Highlands got that rebound, Darius Harrison scored and the Cowboys never trailed again.

Barnes-Thompkins, the RMAC's leading scorer with a 24.9-point average, was 15 of 17 at the line for nearly half of his 33 points. D.J. Bustos, who had scored 34 points in five games this season, finished with 20 points, Desmond Carpenter added 13 and Raquan Mitchell and Munn 11 apiece.

Chadron State was paced by senior Brian Rodriguez-Flores with 28 points, including 10 of 11 at the line, and Michael Sparks with 26 while going six of 12 from 3-point range.  Both totals are season highs. Jacob Jefferson chipped in 12 points and Jackson 11.

Highlands is now 11-4 overall and 6-4 in the conference.  The Eagles, who are 3-13 and 2-9, play at Colorado State-Pueblo Saturday night.

By: Con Marshall, CSC Sports InformationLAS VEGAS, N.M. -- January 17, 2020 -- Freshman guard Jalen Munn was scoreless until he made one of two free throws with less than two seconds remaining to tie the score at 92-92, then sank eight of 10 free shots in overtime to help New Mexico Highlands to a 109-101 win over Chadron State in a Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference game in Las Vegas on Friday night.Free throws were the key to Highlands' victory. Chadron State scored 76 points from the field compared to Highlands' 64, but the Cowboys were 45 of 63 at the line and Chadron State was 25 of 32 there while losing another tough one. It was the Eagles' second overtime loss to go with three others by three or fewer points this season."We played well and kept up with a really talented team on its home floor tonight," Chadron State Coach Houston Reed said. "There are a few little things we needed to do better, but it's unbelievable when a team gets 63 free throw<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579365074986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The game was tight all the way. Highlands was ahead by nine midway in the first half, but led by only 42-41 at halftime. The Eagles were up 67-60 midway in the second half. The difference was never more than three points during the final 9:36 of regulation.The game's leading scorer with 33 points, Sammy Barnes-Thompkins, put Highlands ahead for the first time in more than two minutes at 91-90 when he sank jumper with 21 seconds remaining.Barnes-Thompkins then promptly fouled out while trying to slow down CSC's point guard Colby Jackson, who was headed to the other end of the court with the ball.Jackson made both free throws to give the visitors a one-point margin. With six seconds remaining, Highlands missed a shot, Munn got the rebound and a foul was called. He hit the first charity toss, but missed the second. The Eagles grabbed the rebound, but time had expired.The Eagles had the first shot in overtime, but missed. Highlands got that rebound, Darius Harrison scored and the Cowboys never trailed again.Barnes-Thompkins, the RMAC's leading scorer with a 24.9-point average, was 15 of 17 at the line for nearly half of his 33 points. D.J. Bustos, who had scored 34 points in five games this season, finished with 20 points, Desmond Carpenter added 13 and Raquan Mitchell and Munn 11 apiece.Chadron State was paced by senior Brian Rodriguez-Flores with 28 points, including 10 of 11 at the line, and Michael Sparks with 26 while going six of 12 from 3-point range. Both totals are season highs. Jacob Jefferson chipped in 12 points and Jackson 11.Highlands is now 11-4 overall and 6-4 in the conference. The Eagles, who are 3-13 and 2-9, play at Colorado State-Pueblo Saturday night.

Highlands escapes with OT win over CSC

By: Kaleb Center, CSC Sports Information

CHADRON, Neb. -- January 16, 2020 -- Chadron State College wrestlers won 8 of 10 matches on Thursday evening in the Chicoine Center, to defeat the New Mexico Highlands Cowboys 31-5 and get the team's first Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference dual win of the season. The Eagles are now 4-7 overall and 1-3 in the league.

Tate Stoddard started things off for the Eagles at 125 pounds, getting his first varsity Division II win by a 3-0 decision.

Highlands tied things up with wins at 141 and 149, but CSC never trailed in the match, winning the last six matches. Those victories included a pin by Tate Allison at 165, as well as tech falls by Gavin Eason at 174 and Wade French at 197.

In addition to Stoddard, Eason also picked up his first dual win at the college level, against one of NMHU's two seniors in the lineup.

Other winners for the Eagles were seniors Brandon Kile and Chase Clasen, and freshmen Terry Winstead and Mason Watt.

The Cowboys were assessed a penalty of one team point when their heavyweight wrestler drew an unsportsmanlike conduct charge.

Highlands fell to 2-3 overall with the loss in their first RMAC dual of the season.

125 - Tate Stoddard (CSC) dec. Marcus Santillanes (3-0)

133 - Brandon Kile (CSC) dec. Issac Garcia (8-5)

141 - Jonathon Trujillo (NMHU) dec. Joseph Taylor (6-0)

149 - Logan Pine (NMHU) dec. Chance Karst (SV-1 10-8)

157 - Chase Clasen (CSC) dec. Allen Michel (6-3)

165 - Tate Allison (CSC) pinned Thomas Tolbert (6:01)

174 - Gavin Eason (CSC) TF Kenneth Yara (22-6; 7:00)

184 - Terry Winstead (CSC) dec. Lance Kilgore (4-3)

197 - Wade French (CSC) TF Denzell Morrow (17-2; 6:51)

285 - Mason Watt (CSC) dec. Julian Sanchez (12-6)

174 - Exhibition: Jacob Viera (NMHU) over Preston Renner (CSC) (SV-1 3-1)

By: Kaleb Center, CSC Sports InformationCHADRON, Neb. -- January 16, 2020 -- Chadron State College wrestlers won 8 of 10 matches on Thursday evening in the Chicoine Center, to defeat the New Mexico Highlands Cowboys 31-5 and get the team's first Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference dual win of the season. The Eagles are now 4-7 overall and 1-3 in the league.Tate Stoddard started things off for the Eagles at 125 pounds, getting his first varsity Division II win by a 3-0 decision.Highlands tied things up with wins at 141 and 149, but CSC never trailed in the match, winning the last six matches. Those victories included a pin by Tate Allison at 165, as well as tech falls by Gavin Eason at 174 and Wade French at 197.In addition to Stoddard, Eason also picked up his first dual win at the college level, against one of NMHU's two seniors in the lineup.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579278467075.jpeg" alt="csc wrestling" />
 <figcaption>csc wrestling</figcaption>
 </figure>Other winners for the Eagles were seniors Brandon Kile and Chase Clasen, and freshmen Terry Winstead and Mason Watt.The Cowboys were assessed a penalty of one team point when their heavyweight wrestler drew an unsportsmanlike conduct charge.Highlands fell to 2-3 overall with the loss in their first RMAC dual of the season.Individual Results:125 - Tate Stoddard (CSC) dec. Marcus Santillanes (3-0)133 - Brandon Kile (CSC) dec. Issac Garcia (8-5)141 - Jonathon Trujillo (NMHU) dec. Joseph Taylor (6-0)149 - Logan Pine (NMHU) dec. Chance Karst (SV-1 10-8)157 - Chase Clasen (CSC) dec. Allen Michel (6-3)165 - Tate Allison (CSC) pinned Thomas Tolbert (6:01)174 - Gavin Eason (CSC) TF Kenneth Yara (22-6; 7:00)184 - Terry Winstead (CSC) dec. Lance Kilgore (4-3)197 - Wade French (CSC) TF Denzell Morrow (17-2; 6:51)285 - Mason Watt (CSC) dec. Julian Sanchez (12-6)174 - Exhibition: Jacob Viera (NMHU) over Preston Renner (CSC) (SV-1 3-1)Unsportsmanlike Conduct Sanchez -1.0

CSC Wrestling: Eagles dominate Highlands 31-5

The Nebraska men's basketball team, playing its second road game in four days, could not overcome a strong shooting performance from No. 21 Ohio State Tuesday night, as the Huskers fell to the Buckeyes 80-68 at Value City Arena.

Ohio State (12-5, 2-4 Big Ten) shot 54.5 percent on the night, the highest percentage by a Husker opponent this season. The Buckeyes were 30-of-55 from the field, including 10-of-22 from the 3-point line. CJ Walker, who scored 14 second-half points, paced six Buckeyes in double figures with a game-high 18 points. Kaleb Wesson added a double-double for Ohio State with 13 points and 14 rebounds.

Nebraska, which topped the 60-point mark for the first time in seven trips to Value City Arena, fell to 7-10 overall with the loss and dropped to 2-4 in Big Ten play. The Huskers shot 42.4 percent from the field and were 9-of-22 from the 3-point line. NU knocked down eight threes and shot 54.8 percent in the second half.

It was a balanced scoring night for the Big Red, as six Huskers had at least nine points. Thorir Thorbjarnarson led Nebraska with 15 points – all of which came in the second half – while knocking down a career-high five 3-pointers. He also led NU with six rebounds. Jervay Green, Cam Mack and Yvan Ouedraogo each added 10 points for the Huskers, with Mack adding six assists. Dachon Burke Jr. and Haanif Cheatham scored nine points apiece.

In the first half, Nebraska outscored the Buckeyes in the paint, had more second-chance points, more fast-break points and more points off turnovers, but shooting was the difference as Ohio State built a 13-point halftime lead. Ohio State shot nearly 54 percent from the field and was 5-of-10 from the 3-point line, while the Huskers shot just 31 percent and missed eight of their nine 3-pointers.

The Huskers held the Buckeyes scoreless for more than three minutes to open the game before Andre Wesson hit a trio of 3-pointers in less than a minute to quickly give Ohio State a 9-4 advantage. Three minutes later, the Buckeyes used an 8-0 run to build their first double-digit lead at 17-7.

NU was down nine with 6:49 remaining in the half before Kyle Young scored six straight points to push the lead to 15. The Buckeyes would stretch the lead to 16 before the Huskers scored five of the final seven points of the half, cutting the lead to 11 before Justin Ahrens hit a buzzer beater to send OSU into the locker room on top 38-25.

After making only one 3-pointer in the first half, Nebraska knocked down a pair of threes in the first two minutes of the second half, but Ohio State answered with baskets on five of its first six possessions to lead by as many as 18. Nebraska chipped away and cut the lead to 13 on Thorbjarnarson's third 3-pointer of the half, only to see Ohio State respond with a 12-0 run to take a 68-43 lead with 8:25 to play.

Nebraska then held Ohio State without a field goal for more than three minutes, but the Huskers were able to trim only five points off the lead during that stretch. Trailing by 20, Nebraska continued to fight with Green and Thorbjarnarson combining for 11 points during a 13-3 Husker run that cut the lead to 76-63 with 1:30 remaining. But the closest Nebraska could get was the 12-poitn final margin, as NU outscored Ohio State 43-42 in the second half.

Following a two-game road trip, Nebraska returns home to host Indiana Saturday night. Tipoff at Pinnacle Bank Arena is set for 6 p.m., and the game will be televised on BTN with a radio broadcast available, courtesy of the Husker Sports Network.

Nebraska falls to 0-1 this season against ranked teams, as Ohio State was ranked No. 21 in the AP poll released Monday.

Thorir Thorbjarnarson set a career high with five 3-pointers, topping his previous high of four at Creighton on Dec. 7. It is the fourth time this season he has hit at least three 3-pointers in a game.

With five rebounds tonight, Yvan Ouedraogo has grabbed five-or-more rebounds in six of the last seven contests and 12 times this season.

With six assists, Cam Mack upped his season assist total of 114, which eclipses the 112 that Glynn Watson Jr. had in 36 games a year ago.  Mack now has at least five assists in eight straight games and 13 times this season.

By: Husker AthleticsThe Nebraska men's basketball team, playing its second road game in four days, could not overcome a strong shooting performance from No. 21 Ohio State Tuesday night, as the Huskers fell to the Buckeyes 80-68 at Value City Arena.Ohio State (12-5, 2-4 Big Ten) shot 54.5 percent on the night, the highest percentage by a Husker opponent this season. The Buckeyes were 30-of-55 from the field, including 10-of-22 from the 3-point line. CJ Walker, who scored 14 second-half points, paced six Buckeyes in double figures with a game-high 18 points. Kaleb Wesson added a double-double for Ohio State with 13 points and 14 rebounds.Nebraska, which topped the 60-point mark for the first time in seven trips to Value City Arena, fell to 7-10 overall with the loss and dropped to 2-4 in Big Ten play. The Huskers shot 42.4 percent from the field and were 9-of-22 from the 3-point line. NU knocked down eight threes and shot 54.8 percent in the second half.It was a balanced scoring night for the Big Red, as six Huskers had at least nine points. Thorir Thorbjarnarson led Nebraska with 15 points – all of which came in the second half – while knocking down a career-high five 3-pointers. He also led NU with six rebounds. Jervay Green, Cam Mack and Yvan Ouedraogo each added 10 points for the Huskers, with Mack adding six assists. Dachon Burke Jr. and Haanif Cheatham scored nine points apiece.In the first half, Nebraska outscored the Buckeyes in the paint, had more second-chance points, more fast-break points and more points off turnovers, but shooting was the difference as Ohio State built a 13-point halftime lead. Ohio State shot nearly 54 percent from the field and was 5-of-10 from the 3-point line, while the Huskers shot just 31 percent and missed eight of their nine 3-pointers.The Huskers held the Buckeyes scoreless for more than three minutes to open the game before Andre Wesson hit a trio of 3-pointers in less than a minute to quickly give Ohio State a 9-4 advantage. Three minutes later, the Buckeyes used an 8-0 run to build their first double-digit lead at 17-7.NU was down nine with 6:49 remaining in the half before Kyle Young scored six straight points to push the lead to 15. The Buckeyes would stretch the lead to 16 before the Huskers scored five of the final seven points of the half, cutting the lead to 11 before Justin Ahrens hit a buzzer beater to send OSU into the locker room on top 38-25.After making only one 3-pointer in the first half, Nebraska knocked down a pair of threes in the first two minutes of the second half, but Ohio State answered with baskets on five of its first six possessions to lead by as many as 18. Nebraska chipped away and cut the lead to 13 on Thorbjarnarson's third 3-pointer of the half, only to see Ohio State respond with a 12-0 run to take a 68-43 lead with 8:25 to play.Nebraska then held Ohio State without a field goal for more than three minutes, but the Huskers were able to trim only five points off the lead during that stretch. Trailing by 20, Nebraska continued to fight with Green and Thorbjarnarson combining for 11 points during a 13-3 Husker run that cut the lead to 76-63 with 1:30 remaining. But the closest Nebraska could get was the 12-poitn final margin, as NU outscored Ohio State 43-42 in the second half.Following a two-game road trip, Nebraska returns home to host Indiana Saturday night. Tipoff at Pinnacle Bank Arena is set for 6 p.m., and the game will be televised on BTN with a radio broadcast available, courtesy of the Husker Sports Network.Post-Game NotesNebraska falls to 0-1 this season against ranked teams, as Ohio State was ranked No. 21 in the AP poll released Monday.Thorir Thorbjarnarson set a career high with five 3-pointers, topping his previous high of four at Creighton on Dec. 7. It is the fourth time this season he has hit at least three 3-pointers in a game.With five rebounds tonight, Yvan Ouedraogo has grabbed five-or-more rebounds in six of the last seven contests and 12 times this season.With six assists, Cam Mack upped his season assist total of 114, which eclipses the 112 that Glynn Watson Jr. had in 36 games a year ago. Mack now has at least five assists in eight straight games and 13 times this season.

Huskers Fall at No. 21 Ohio State

Western Nebraska High School Basketball Scores - Tuesday, January 14

<h2>Western Nebraska High School Basketball Scores - Tuesday, January 14</h2>GirlsChadron 57, Hemingford 23Bayard 54, Morrill 49, OTGarden County 39, Minatare 35 (2OT)Gordon-Rushville 63, Hay Springs 28Bridgeport 55, Leyton 39Haxtun, CO 47, Creek Valley 30Scottsbluff 80, Cheyenne South, Wyo. 41Sidney 49, Mitchell 20Kimball 61, Potter-Dix 8BoysChadron 57, Hemingford 33Morrill 45, Bayard 29Garden County 55, Minatare 33…Gordon-Rushville 55, Hay Springs 43Bridgeport 78, Leyton 22Scottsbluff 72, Cheyenne South, Wyo. 49Mitchell 61, Sidney 44

🏀 Western Nebraska High School Basketball Scores - Tuesday, January 14

Location of Sunday's quake- image U.S. Geological Survey

RENO COUNTY — The U.S. Geological Survey reported a strong earthquake Sunday afternoon just south of Hutchinson.

The 4.4-magnitude quake was recorded at 1:08 p.m. Sunday, and was felt&nbsp; as far north of Hays, according to social media reports.

The epicenter of the quake was just southwest of Hutchinson, the USGS reported.

The Hutchinson police department reported they received numerous phone calls about the quake but have no reports of damage or injury.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579462436889.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Location of Sunday's quake- image U.S. Geological SurveyRENO COUNTY — The U.S. Geological Survey reported a strong earthquake Sunday afternoon just south of Hutchinson.The 4.4-magnitude quake was recorded at 1:08 p.m. Sunday, and was felt&nbsp; as far north of Hays, according to social media reports.The epicenter of the quake was just southwest of Hutchinson, the USGS reported.The Hutchinson police department reported they received numerous phone calls about the quake but have no reports of damage or injury.

Strong quake shakes western Kansas Sunday

A winter weather system moving across the country is dropping snow, sleet and freezing rain on eastern Nebraska. 

Most schools in the region canceled classes and activities Friday ahead of the storm system.

 Most residents awoke Friday to a blanket of snow and wind chills well below zero. T

he National Weather Service has issued winter weather advisory for much of eastern Nebraska into central parts of the state that will remain in effect until early Saturday morning. 

Snow Friday morning was expected to turn to sleet and freezing rain by afternoon, and officials warned motorists to use extreme caution on the roads.

A winter weather system moving across the country is dropping snow, sleet and freezing rain on eastern Nebraska. Most schools in the region canceled classes and activities Friday ahead of the storm system. Most residents awoke Friday to a blanket of snow and wind chills well below zero. The National Weather Service has issued winter weather advisory for much of eastern Nebraska into central parts of the state that will remain in effect until early Saturday morning. Snow Friday morning was expected to turn to sleet and freezing rain by afternoon, and officials warned motorists to use extreme caution on the roads.

Snow, freezing rain rake eastern Nebraska on Friday

Authorities say a plane has slid off the taxiway at Kansas City International Airport due to icy conditions as a sprawling winter storm hits large sections of the Midwest and beyond. 

The weather has closed schools, universities and government offices. 

The Delta Airlines A319 was taxiing from the terminal Friday morning when the nose wheel dropped off the taxiway pavement. 

Officials say there are no known injuries. 

The closures come after the National Weather Service issued winter weather advisories, saying the storm will create hazardous travel conditions from the Plains into the Northeast through the weekend. There's a blizzard warning for parts of the Upper Midwest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579280968329.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Osman Rana" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Osman Rana</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities say a plane has slid off the taxiway at Kansas City International Airport due to icy conditions as a sprawling winter storm hits large sections of the Midwest and beyond. The weather has closed schools, universities and government offices. The Delta Airlines A319 was taxiing from the terminal Friday morning when the nose wheel dropped off the taxiway pavement. Officials say there are no known injuries. The closures come after the National Weather Service issued winter weather advisories, saying the storm will create hazardous travel conditions from the Plains into the Northeast through the weekend. There's a blizzard warning for parts of the Upper Midwest.

Plane slides off taxiway in icy weather; winter storm hits

KEARNEY, Neb. (AP) - Officials approved a permit that will allow a Hastings company to operate a gravel pit just east of Kearney despite objections from some neighbors.

The Kearney City Council voted Tuesday night to grant a conditional use permit sought by Vontz Paving, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kearneyhub.com/news/local/city-council-approves-gravel-pit-east-of-kearney/article_ad8e200e-37b3-11ea-b7f9-83cf5e41cfca.html" target="_blank">Kearney Hub</a>&nbsp;newspaper. Neighbors of the site two miles from Kearney opposed the permit, saying the ground was highly erodible and had a high water table, making it likely a pit would cause blowing sand and flooding.

The company plans to build an earthen berm around the pit to limit any blowing sand.

KEARNEY, Neb. (AP) - Officials approved a permit that will allow a Hastings company to operate a gravel pit just east of Kearney despite objections from some neighbors.The Kearney City Council voted Tuesday night to grant a conditional use permit sought by Vontz Paving, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kearneyhub.com/news/local/city-council-approves-gravel-pit-east-of-kearney/article_ad8e200e-37b3-11ea-b7f9-83cf5e41cfca.html" target="_blank">Kearney Hub</a>&nbsp;newspaper. Neighbors of the site two miles from Kearney opposed the permit, saying the ground was highly erodible and had a high water table, making it likely a pit would cause blowing sand and flooding.The company plans to build an earthen berm around the pit to limit any blowing sand.

Kearney officials OK permit for gravel pit despite concerns

Police are looking for a man they believe tried to abduct a woman as she jogged in near Hanscom Park in midtown Omaha. 

Police say the incident happened Sunday evening, when the 23-year-old woman reported that a man in his 30s driving a dark-colored car approached her as she was running. 

The woman said that during their interaction, the man grabbed her and tried to force her into his car.

 Police say the woman was able to fight the man off, escape and call for help. 

Police are asking anyone with information to contact Omaha Crime Stoppers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579277207994.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Andrew Heald" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Andrew Heald</figcaption>
 </figure>Police are looking for a man they believe tried to abduct a woman as she jogged in near Hanscom Park in midtown Omaha. Police say the incident happened Sunday evening, when the 23-year-old woman reported that a man in his 30s driving a dark-colored car approached her as she was running. The woman said that during their interaction, the man grabbed her and tried to force her into his car. Police say the woman was able to fight the man off, escape and call for help. The man then sped off in the car. Police are asking anyone with information to contact Omaha Crime Stoppers.

Woman says man tried to abduct her as she was jogging

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news that the Lincoln Police Department was investigating a hate crime against a Jewish temple.

“I condemn anti-Semitism in the strongest possible terms, and encourage Nebraskans from all backgrounds to do the same,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“The Jewish community has been a vital part of our state for generations. &nbsp;I urge anyone with information about the vandalism to report it to the Lincoln Police Department, so the perpetrator can be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”

Anyone with information for law enforcement can call 402-441-6000 or Lincoln Crimestoppers at 402-4765-3600.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news that the Lincoln Police Department was investigating a hate crime against a Jewish temple.“I condemn anti-Semitism in the strongest possible terms, and encourage Nebraskans from all backgrounds to do the same,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“The Jewish community has been a vital part of our state for generations. &nbsp;I urge anyone with information about the vandalism to report it to the Lincoln Police Department, so the perpetrator can be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”Anyone with information for law enforcement can call 402-441-6000 or Lincoln Crimestoppers at 402-4765-3600.

Gov. Ricketts condemns anti-semitic hate crime

Wyoming state lawmakers in the new legislative session will have another opportunity to permanently shift the state to daylight saving time. 

The Casper Star Tribune reported that a change to Mountain Daylight Time would essentially add an extra hour of daylight between November and March. 

Republican Rep. Dan Laursen is sponsoring House Bill 44, which says the biannual time change disrupts commerce and the daily schedules of residents. 

The shift would not take effect immediately if approved by state lawmakers, who are scheduled to meet in Cheyenne beginning Feb. 10. 

The federal government would also need to ratify the change.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579204853768.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy:&nbsp;Ethan Medrano" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy:&nbsp;Ethan Medrano</figcaption>
 </figure>Wyoming state lawmakers in the new legislative session will have another opportunity to permanently shift the state to daylight saving time. The Casper Star Tribune reported that a change to Mountain Daylight Time would essentially add an extra hour of daylight between November and March. Republican Rep. Dan Laursen is sponsoring House Bill 44, which says the biannual time change disrupts commerce and the daily schedules of residents. The shift would not take effect immediately if approved by state lawmakers, who are scheduled to meet in Cheyenne beginning Feb. 10. The federal government would also need to ratify the change.

Wyoming lawmakers to consider switch to daylight saving time

President Donald Trump says he might attend a fireworks show that's returning to Mount Rushmore in South Dakota's Black Hills on July 4th. 

Trump mentioned the fireworks display during a signing ceremony for the U.S.-China trade deal in Washington Wednesday. 

The Rapid City Journal reports fireworks shows have not been held at Mount Rushmore since 2009 when a pine beetle infestation killed thousands of trees in the Black Hills, which created a fire hazard. 

Republican Gov. Krisi Noem and federal officials announced last May that the fireworks show would resume.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump says he might attend a fireworks show that's returning to Mount Rushmore in South Dakota's Black Hills on July 4th. Trump mentioned the fireworks display during a signing ceremony for the U.S.-China trade deal in Washington Wednesday. The Rapid City Journal reports fireworks shows have not been held at Mount Rushmore since 2009 when a pine beetle infestation killed thousands of trees in the Black Hills, which created a fire hazard. Republican Gov. Krisi Noem and federal officials announced last May that the fireworks show would resume.&nbsp;

Trump talks about Mount Rushmore fireworks at trade ceremony

Omaha police have captured an inmate who didn't return from a job hunt in Lincoln. 

The state prisons department says Anthony Durand had been given permission to leave the state's Community Corrections Center-Lincoln on Jan. 6. He didn't return. 

The department says he also had managed to remove the monitoring device he was wearing. 

He was found by Omaha officers Wednesday and taken into custody. Durand started serving his three-year prison sentence on Sept. 18 last year. He'd been charged with methamphetamine possession, theft and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579187894014.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Mitch Lensink" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Mitch Lensink</figcaption>
 </figure>Omaha police have captured an inmate who didn't return from a job hunt in Lincoln. The state prisons department says Anthony Durand had been given permission to leave the state's Community Corrections Center-Lincoln on Jan. 6. He didn't return. The department says he also had managed to remove the monitoring device he was wearing. He was found by Omaha officers Wednesday and taken into custody. Durand started serving his three-year prison sentence on Sept. 18 last year. He'd been charged with methamphetamine possession, theft and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.&nbsp;

Inmate who didn't return from Lincoln job hunt is captured

Two men have been sent to prison for stealing a U.S. Postal Service truck in Grand Island while kidnapping its driver. 

Prosecutors say Sidney Britt was sentenced Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Omaha to 20 years. 

Joshua Britt was given 11 years and three months in prison.

 Prosecutors say the truck driver was forced into the truck Dec. 14, 2018, by an armed man. It was driven to a rest area off Interstate 80, where the Britts and another man removed bags of cash and deposits from the semitrailer and drove away in a pickup truck.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two men have been sent to prison for stealing a U.S. Postal Service truck in Grand Island while kidnapping its driver. Prosecutors say Sidney Britt was sentenced Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Omaha to 20 years. Joshua Britt was given 11 years and three months in prison. Prosecutors say the truck driver was forced into the truck Dec. 14, 2018, by an armed man. It was driven to a rest area off Interstate 80, where the Britts and another man removed bags of cash and deposits from the semitrailer and drove away in a pickup truck.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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