ALLIANCE, Neb. – The City of Alliance is pleased to announce that JD Cox will be returning to Alliance to serve as City Manager, bringing with him a strong record of municipal leadership, organizational development and community focused service.

Cox previously served as the Alliance City Manager 10 years ago, and his return showcases his dedication to the Alliance Community. He will work to enhance city operations, strengthen local and regional partnerships and support long term community goals. His experience in local government and previous experience with the Alliance community make him exceptionally well suited to step into this role.

“We are excited to welcome JD back to Alliance” said Mayor John McGhehey. “His familiarity with our community and proven leadership will help continue the momentum of key City projects while fostering positive engagements with residents and local businesses.”

Cox expressed enthusiasm about rejoining the organization and serving the people of Alliance. “Tonya and I are grateful and excited to return to Alliance! This is home to us, and for years we’ve hoped for the opportunity to return, to give back and to be part of the community we’ve always loved! Even our children, who are now adults living their own lives, are over the moon that we’re coming home to Alliance. Professionally, I’m honored to serve again and to bring back ten years of experience, working closely with Council, our directors and staff, and the community to keep the focus on practical progress. I’m truly thankful for this opportunity, and I’m committed to work hard every day to earn trust through steady service and accountable leadership.”

Cox is expected to begin his role as City Manager on April 6, 2026. For more information, please contact City Hall at (308) 762-5400.

JD Cox Returns to the City of Alliance as City Manager

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen, a strong supporter of K-12 education in Nebraska, signed LB653 into law today to improve classroom environments. The new law will provide school districts the flexibility to work with students and their families to address disruptive behaviors, ensuring that our classrooms are a place for learning.

“We’re investing in Nebraska’s kids while ensuring classrooms are safe and great learning environments,” said Governor Pillen. “Today, I signed LB653 into law and I’m grateful for the legislature’s work – especially Sen. Murman for carrying this legislation on my behalf – to get this to my desk to provide teachers and school administrators the tools they need to discipline and assist young students who engage in violent behavior in the classroom.”

Earlier this year during the Governor’s State of the State Address, Gov. Pillen highlighted pieces of this legislation as a priority initiative to help address issues teachers have faced with violent or disruptive students in classroom settings.

The legislation allows school districts to suspend Pre-K through 2nd grade students who exhibit violent behavior and protect the students right to be heard by the administration. While this legislation was not a full repeal of the existing prohibition, it will help schools to regain control in their classrooms.

This is win for Nebraska teachers, students, families and learning.

Gov. Pillen Signs Classroom Improvement Legislation into Law

ALLIANCE, Neb. – The City of Alliance is urging residents to be cautious after receiving a report of a scammer calling a local customer and threatening to disconnect their electricity unless immediate payment was made.

The caller did not represent the City of Alliance.

The City reminds all residents of the following important information regarding legitimate utility contact:

1. If the City of Alliance contacts you about an account that is up for disconnection, the call will come from our official number: 308-313-2036.

2. City offices cannot accept payments over the phone. The only way to make a payment by phone is by calling Payment Service Network (PSN) directly.

Any caller demanding immediate payment, requesting personal financial information, or threatening disconnection should be considered suspicious.

Residents who receive a call of this nature should hang up immediately and contact the City of Alliance Utility Office at 308-762-5075 to verify the status of their account.

The City of Alliance encourages everyone to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

If you have any questions, please call the Utility Department at (308) 762-5075.

Scam Phone Calls Regarding Utility Accounts

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Dysentry And Hair Gel

LINCOLN, Neb. - Fellows in the Nebraska LEAD Program Class 44 recently completed their National Study/Travel Seminar, a 10-day immersive experience designed to deepen their understanding of public policy, global markets, leadership, history and the future of food and agriculture.

The seminar, held February 4–13, included visits and briefings in Kansas City, Washington, D.C., Chicago and Moline, Illinois. The experience is a cornerstone of the two-year Nebraska LEAD Program, providing Fellows direct access to national leaders, policymakers, industry executives and cultural institutions.

Throughout the seminar, Class 44 engaged with organizations representing nearly every facet of agriculture and public life — from the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to the United States Department of Agriculture, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Pork Producers Council and the American Soybean Association.

Fellows also met with members of Nebraska’s congressional delegation and staff, visited foreign embassies including the Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C. and the Embassy of Canada in Washington, D.C., and toured historic and cultural sites such as Arlington National Cemetery, the White House and Gettysburg National Military Park.

"This seminar brings leadership to life," said Kurtis Harms, director of the Nebraska LEAD Program.

"Classroom discussion is important, but there is no substitute for sitting across the table from decision-makers in Washington, D.C., hearing directly how policy is shaped and implemented, and then connecting that back to Nebraska farms, ranches and rural communities. It challenges our Fellows to think bigger and lead with greater perspective."

In Kansas City, Fellows explored agricultural innovation and market dynamics, including discussions with economists at the Federal Reserve and sustainability leaders at Dairy Farmers of America. In Washington, D.C., they examined federal regulatory processes, trade policy and farm bill priorities while engaging directly with national commodity groups and congressional leaders.

The seminar also emphasized historical context and civic responsibility. At Gettysburg, Fellows reflected on leadership during pivotal moments in American history.

"The visit to Gettysburg was especially impactful," said Shane Wohlgemuth, a Class 44 Fellow, farmer and business owner.

"Standing where history was made and then coming back to D.C. to discuss modern policy issues really put leadership into perspective. It reminded me that decisions matter — and that strong leadership can change the course of a nation."

Another Fellow in the class, Erika Coulter, territory manager with Beck’s Hybrids, highlighted the policy-focused conversations in the nation’s capital.

"Meeting with national organizations and hearing firsthand how they advocate for producers helped me better understand how Nebraska agriculture fits into the bigger picture. It gave me confidence to be more engaged in policy discussions at home."

The final leg of the seminar included visits in Chicago and Moline, where Fellows explored food access initiatives at the Greater Chicago Food Depository, urban agricultural education at the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences, and global manufacturing and innovation at John Deere facilities. Harms said the breadth of the experience is intentional.

"We want Fellows to see the full food and agriculture system — from production and processing to policy, trade and consumer engagement," he said.

"This seminar stretches them geographically and intellectually. When they return to Nebraska, they bring back not just knowledge, but relationships, perspective and a renewed commitment to serve."

Nebraska LEAD 44 Fellows (by hometown) that participated in the National Study/Travel Seminar are:

KEARNEY: Garrett Elfeldt, Chase Hoffschneider, Camille Koehn

LINCOLN: Jacob Schlick, Dillon Kuehn, Katelyn Leibhart

The Nebraska LEAD Program includes Nebraskans currently active in production agriculture and agribusiness and is a two-year leadership development program under the direction of the Nebraska Agricultural Leadership Council in cooperation with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

For more information, or to request an application for Nebraska LEAD 45 which begins in the fall of 2026, contact the Nebraska LEAD Program online at&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.acemlnb.com/lt.php?x=4lZy~GDEUFDO55_8yt9GU.lz233RutMfludgjKM2JXfPEpSrzky7x.Fu1HORzk~w_x6xXHjFI4Ga7pV52N~GYORr236j" target="_blank">lead.unl.edu</a>. The application deadline is June 15.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska LEAD Class 44 Completes National Study/Travel Seminar

-Isaiah Michael Johnson and Trena Isabell Ackerman

-Keaton Jon Morgan and Meah Elaine DeLeon

-Cory Lee Huber and Brandy Lynn Weisgerber

-Robert Henry Cerv III and Karissa Ann Harvey

Marriages, divorces, February 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

International Students Build Research Skills and Engage with Local Community

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: March Sports

POST PODCAST: Neal Parsons, The Fourth Wall

Bex Marshall will perform at Take Shelter in Sidney on Tuesday, March 10 starting at 8:30pm.&nbsp;

Bex Marshall to perform in Sidney 

Avid to play in Scottsbluff

Kalin Krohe Reference, That One Guy to play in Sidney 

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

Jay and Amanda to perform in Scottsbluff 

Jessi Laine to perform in Kimball 

SKYWARN Spotter Training Coming to Hemingford on April 22

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

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

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

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

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

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

Panhandle Frontier Finds Trail Guide deadline coming soon

Country Music Jamboree to be held in Chadron 

Spencer Gonzalez to play in Kimball 

Stars of Tomorrow to be held in Chadron 

On Thursday, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby testified on the U.S. National Defense Strategy before the House Armed Services Committee.

During questioning, Nebraska Congressman Don Bacon said about President Trump. "He treats Putin with velvet gloves, but he gives Zelensky the old boxing glove treatment, and I don't get it. There's like a moral blindness in this administration when it comes to Russia."

🎥Neb. Congressman slams President Trump on treatment of Russia

<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/" target="_blank">BUSINESS WIRE</a>

KANSAS CITY—-EPR Properties announced Thursday that it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a portfolio of seven regional parks from Six Flags Entertainment Corporation for a gross transactional value of $342 million, of which the Company provided approximately $315 million and our operating tenants provided the balance, including funds for working capital and capital improvements. This transaction significantly expands the Company's attractions portfolio and represents its largest acquisition since 2017.

<a href="https://www.sixflags.com/blog/looking-forward-a-new-chapter-for-six-flags?fbclid=IwY2xjawQWihBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFsYzZtakF3WTVuRkxQZXZac3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkaAETJ4zMV0das0yoP6MkXkVMOgW3h5bzqF6ejIleo_FtIJzLiF41qZtpNt_aem_so5pEBI0IvQUgjNyUMGUwA">Click here for more detail</a>s on what the sale means for park guests

The seven parks comprise over 1,600 acres, featuring 418 attractions across five states and Canada, and drawing approximately 4.5 million annual attendees. The six regional parks that are located throughout the U.S. will be leased to and operated by Enchanted Parks (formerly Innovative Attraction Management) pursuant to a long-term master lease, and the one park located in Canada will be leased to and operated by La Ronde Operations, Inc. following the completion of the transaction. Both entities are proven operators with which the Company has an existing relationship.

"This strategic acquisition represents a compelling opportunity to expand our attractions portfolio with high-quality experiential real estate assets in established regional markets," said Gregory K. Silvers, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EPR Properties. "These properties embody the essential characteristics we seek: delivering stable, long-term cash flows, strong drive-to accessibility, multi-generational appeal, and significant underlying land value. This transaction aligns with our disciplined investment criteria and accelerates our strategic expansion into experiential properties that create enduring value for our shareholders.”

Properties Included In Transaction

The company has acquired the non-Six Flags branded property names as part of the transaction and acquired rights to the Six Flags brand through 2026. The transaction is expected to close toward the end of the first quarter or beginning of the second quarter, subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions and third-party approvals. No significant impact on guests is expected during this transition. The parks will continue their regular operating schedules, and all season passes sold will be recognized through the 2026 operating season.

Worlds of Fun sold as part of $342 million deal

On Wednesday, a Department of State charter flight of American citizens departed the Middle East in route to the United States, as part of our ongoing efforts to assist Americans return home.


Additional flights will be surged across the region and American citizens in UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel interested in the Department's charter flight or ground transportation options, should complete the Crisis Intake Form at <a href="https://t.co/ZUvr9gptAQ" target="_blank">http://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake</a> or contact the State Department's 24/7 Task Force at +1-202-501-4444.

US begins charter flights for stranded Americans wanting to leave the Middle East

The Department of War announced the death of two more Army Reserve Soldiers who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M. Marzan, 54, of Sacramento, Calif., was at the scene of the incident on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, and is believed to be the individual who perished at the scene, according to a statement from the DOW.

 Positive identification of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan will be completed by the medical examiner.  The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.

Maj. Jeffrey R. O'Brien, 45, of Indianola, Iowa, died on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, during an unmanned aircraft system attack. The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.

Pentagon releases names of 2 more U.S. soldiers killed in Iran conflict

On their social media page the University of Notre Dame&nbsp; President Rev. Robert A. Dowd wrote, “Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather.

"Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very best in his players, on and off the field, earning their respect and admiration for a lifetime. In the years since leaving the head football coach position, Lou, together with his beloved wife, Beth, supported Notre Dame in innumerable ways, among them making possible the refurbishment of four residence hall chapels and the construction of the Beth and Lou Holtz Grand Reading Room on the first floor of Hesburgh Library — tangible signs of their great love for their Catholic faith and the mission of Our Lady’s University. Whenever Notre Dame called to ask for his help, Lou answered with his characteristic generosity, and he will be sorely missed. The prayers of the entire Notre Dame community are with his family and many friends in this time of sorrow. May he rest in the peace and love of Christ.”

- University of Notre Dame President Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Legendary college football coach Lou Holtz dead at 89

🎥 Details on US submarine torpedo attack on Iranian warship

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

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

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

Soldier from Nebraska among those killed in Iran conflict 

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

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

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

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

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

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

·      Refer to our website for the latest Security Alerts.

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

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

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

·      Monitor official information sources.

·      Follow the instructions of local authorities.

Iranian drones hit US Embassy in Saudi Arabia

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

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

Americans urged to leave more than a dozen Middle Eastern countries

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

By: Con Marshall CSC Sports Information

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CSC finishes season with OT win over Westminster (UT)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🏀 Girls B Districts & C/D District Final Scoreboard; Boys Playoffs Scoreboard

ALLIANCE, Neb. - On this week's edition of the Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show, presented by Harris Sales in Alliance, Jake Schrantz is joined by head boys varsity basketball coach, Jordan Mills. They break down Thursday's upcoming District playoff matchup against McCook.

Then, Alliance head boys varsity wrestling coach, William Schwartzkopf, joins the show to talk about last week's state wrestling tournament. The Bulldogs sent five state qualifiers, and left with some state championship gold, thanks to sophomore Coy Childers.

Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show - 02/25/26 (Boys Basketball & Wrestling)

🏀 Girls Sub-District Playoff Brackets, Scores

C1-10 at Ogallala #4 Chadron 51, #5 Chase County 40 #3 Bridgeport 66, #6 Cozad 40 #1 Ogallala 69, Chadron 37 #2 Gothenburg 57, Bridgeport 29 Championship: Ogallala vs Gothenburg - 6:00 *** NOW FRIDAY

C2-10 at Valentine #4 Mitchell 44, #5 Gordon-Rushville 41 #3 Kimball 62, #6 Hemingford 19 #1 Valentine 82, Mitchell 49 #2 Perkins County 51, Kimball 45 Championship: Perkins County vs Valentine - 4:00 MT ***NOW SATURDAY

D1-12 at Morrill #4 Sutherland 52,&nbsp;#1 Morrill 44 #2 Wauneta-Palisade 49, #3 34 Championship: Sutherland vs W/P - ***NOW SATURDAY AT WAUNETA, 7:00 MT D2-12 at Mullen #4 Hyannis 50, #5 Cody-Kilgore 44 #1 Mullen 66, Hyannis 37 #3 Crawford 44,&nbsp;#2 Hay Springs 38 Championship: Crawford vs Mullen - 5:30 ***NOW FRIDAY

D2-11 at Leyton #1 Leyton 35, #4 Minatare 28 #2 Potter-Dix 37, #3 Banner County 26 Championship: Potter-Dix 33,&nbsp;Leyton 29

D2-10 at Paxton #4 Arthur County 40, #5 Creek Valley 20 #1 Paxton 49,&nbsp; Arthur County 22 #2 South Platte 41, #3 Garden County 31 Championship: Paxton 49,&nbsp;South Platte 16&nbsp;

🏀 Sub-Finals Weather Updates: Girls Sub-District Playoff Brackets, Scores

By: Paxton Ritchie CSC Sports Information Director

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Hunter Jacobsen (133 pounds), Keegan Gehlhausen (184 pounds) and Mason Villwok (197 pounds) were all named First Team All-RMAC wrestlers, as announced by the conference office on Thursday.

Chadron State's three total All-RMAC honorees were tied for third in the conference, but with the Eagles placing all their selections on the first team, CSC's three first-team honorees were tied for the most in the RMAC with Colorado School of Mines. Adams State swept the special awards, with Isaiah Gamez winning his second straight Wrestler of the Year award while Malachi Rider won Freshman of the Year and Grizzlies coach Jason Ramstetter earning Coach of the Year honors.

The league's seven head men's wrestling coaches nominated and voted for the RMAC Men's Wrestling Major Awards and All-RMAC teams, with coaches unable to vote for their own wrestlers.

Jacobsen had a strong sophomore season, moving up to the 133-pound slot after competing at 125 pounds as a true freshman. Jacobsen went 5-1 in RMAC duals, including three major decision wins. He was named the RMAC Wrestler of the Week on November 18 after dominant tech fall and fall dual victories against Fort Hays State and Otero.

Gelhausen is the only of CSC's three selections to be a repeat honoree, earning first-team honors for the second consecutive year and third time in his career. He is one of six 2025-26 First Team All-RMAC picks to repeat their selection from 2024-25. Gehlhausen went unbeaten in four RMAC duals, placed second at the Midwest Classic and was victorious in CSC's dual against No. 1-ranked Nebraska-Kearney. He won RMAC Wrestler of the Week honors on February 10.

Chadron State takes three spots on All-RMAC Wrestling First Team

By: Con Marshall CSC Sports Information&nbsp;

DURANGO, Colo. – Both Chadron State and Fort Lewis finished their Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference basketball game on Thursday night with 11 three-pointers, but the Skyhawks sank six treys to CSC's one in the first 10 minutes to give the home team a big lead that they never yielded en route to an 80-65 victory.

Senior Isaiah Randolph and freshman Luka Djurovic each had 13 points to pace the Eagles while guards Zach Smith and Mack Keighran added 11 apiece. Randolph also blocked three shots and the 6-8 Djurovic, who meshed five of his six field goal shots, including all three of his three-pointers, also grabbed 10 rebounds while playing arguably the best game of his young career.

The Skyhawks' early success from behind the arc put them ahead 25-11 halfway through the first half. Chadron State never got closer than nine points the rest of the way. Fort Lewis finished the first half 8-of-19 on three-pointers and held a 42-27 intermission lead. Three-pointers were certainly the game's feature. The two teams fired 72 of them—41 by CSC and 31 by FLC.  

Each team scored 38 points in the second half, but the die had been cast. Even though the Eagles made six treys in the second half, twice as many as Fort Lewis, the Skyhawks maintained at least a 10-point advantage.  

The Eagles had also trailed by sizable margins at halftime at home the previous weekend—16 points against Metro State in the first game and 13 versus Colorado School of Mines in the second. CSC rallied to defeat Metro 84-77 and to draw within two points of Mines. But Fort Lewis held off the challenge with some room to spare on its home court. 

Fort Lewis was led by 6-foot-2 guard Stewart Erhart, who sank three of his team's six early treys, with 22 points. Fellow guard Jaxon Smith had 16 and the inside duo of Chuol Deng and Cassius Carmichael, 13 and 12, respectively.

The win snapped the Skyhawks' four-game losing skid and solidifies their status as one of the top three teams in the RMAC standings. They are now 13-4 in league play while Black Hills State is 14-3 and Colorado Mesa is 13-3.

The Eagles are 6-19 overall and 4-13 in the RMAC. They will tangle with Adams State in Alamosa on Saturday afternoon.

Chadron State—Isaiah Randolph 13, Luka Djurovic 13, Zach Smith 11, Mack Keighran 11, Jackson Schauer 7, Collin Nick 5, Blessing Adesipe 3, Jovan Jovanovic 2.  Totals: 19-58 (11-41) 16-7, 65 points, 33 rebounds, 13 assists, 16 turnovers.

🏀 Skyhawks soar to early lead, hold serve to keep CSC in check to begin RMAC week

🏀 High School Basketball Scoreboard - 2/13

🏀 High School Basketball Scoreboard - 2/13

CHADRON, Neb. – Redshirt freshman Jackson Schauer hit eight three-pointers, Jadon Cool scored 17 second-half points and Chadron State rallied from as many as 21 points down to stun MSU Denver 84-77 at home in the Chicoine Center. 

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