ALLIANCE, Neb. - The City of Alliance is committed to your safety and will begin monthly outdoor warning siren tests at noon on Wednesday, March 18th. These tests will continue every third Wednesday at noon through October, providing a reliable schedule for you to remember. Please note that testing will NOT occur when thunderstorms are predicted or occurring in the area, or during freezing weather conditions. If testing is postponed, it will be rescheduled for the next regularly scheduled date and time. There will be no “make-up test.”

Outdoor Warning Sirens are devices used to alert the public who are outdoors to go inside and seek shelter and to provide further information.

You can find helpful information on the City of Alliance website under the Emergency Management link.

<a href="https://www.cityofalliance.net/217/Emergency-Management">https://www.cityofalliance.net/217/Emergency-Management</a>

<a href="https://www.cityofalliance.net/267/Tornadoes">https://www.cityofalliance.net/267/Tornadoes</a>

Alliance to Begin Outdoor Warning Siren Testing

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has posted Request for Applications (RFA) for three grant opportunities under the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) in Nebraska.

RHTP-1.2 Make Rural Nebraska Healthy Again Through Food as Medicine aims to assess the landscape of food cooperatives and food pantries that procure locally grown items used in school nutrition programs and identify readiness for partnerships with schools by strengthening regional and local food aggregation hubs through the development of procurement tools for producers. Eligible applicants include producers (farmers and ranchers), food cooperatives, non-profit entities, and food pantries interested in partnering with schools. Applications are due April 8, 2026. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpoKj-2FmknhQ7ITEMSjELWuBFxuexpLxk6rAP9IEQe6AmprVBFYTzfcn-2F8vwVnyTRDeCCa5gyIq7rk5tzU8hekcghQoumzmL4hw-2FXZtIOCTVkCW-2FygxcfxBR8tO2NRNTNeUg-3D-3DKUVf_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyDFUXts0PPRvJVwOzrZydJLyKHOwrfm-2FVnUnD7DxPTfciEORkT5FIOfxBj-2FE5p80oi0FZylIwkZrt2ubbjamxSFRJubsYg38CTrnQHubvoRYw9GeRaDPgh9A25Fm1Ym2Skpqme3lg6v8Id-2FlQS7ejTV-2FBCPKHeTQzbatYQTfo1yOtjb349IYOUzW5U2Lc6e7jV7L27zLPvvg5EF6iaOg6Vefn-2B8LRptNhzdt8R3Jk60N0JL-2FR-2FeDaovXmRv1QKWAj6AoarfdLggUvVXJhkp-2FwNUaqKFxXLJNAwnP1Q-2Bx9-2BkkQGZk6WXfl4V12MG7Q2rQL-2BLHNJOXY20JhIihXD3a0eg-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://dhhs.ne.gov/Grants%20and%20Contract%20Opportunity%20Docs/RHTP%20Initiative%201.2%20RFA.pdf</a>

RHTP-3.3 Rural Health Care Workforce Incentive and Sustainability Model aims to strengthen Nebraska’s health care workforce by supporting the development and expansion of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training (SNAP E&amp;T) third-party partners focused on health care career pathways. Eligible entities include local governments, Indian tribes, institutions of higher education, and nonprofit or for-profit entities. Applications are due June 1, 2026.&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpoKj-2FmknhQ7ITEMSjELWuBFxuexpLxk6rAP9IEQe6AmprVBFYTzfcn-2F8vwVnyTRDeKsMiiiro4vdZMnEETxVED4aaA-2FYpImFEx4ZBYHl6BniaDLpqBGn7i1mll9LIvQBsA-3D-3Db7Ej_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyDFUXts0PPRvJVwOzrZydJLyKHOwrfm-2FVnUnD7DxPTfciEORkT5FIOfxBj-2FE5p80oi0FZylIwkZrt2ubbjamxSFRJubsYg38CTrnQHubvoRYw9GeRaDPgh9A25Fm1Ym2Skpqme3lg6v8Id-2FlQS7ejTV-2FBCPKHeTQzbatYQTfo1yPHP3q8cJ6RZWtTKPA-2FY-2F1IfYLTDUm3f31k1rVsRwhDrhi25bG9lbySTVtfMT-2FBTEWMc8HPyEwUo2DweDzQaRrT6hwyGKJlmgUFCoUqjuWRlWZFwo4AaOeSGYx6GQcMgA3iZ-2FgXLj4irZcxfXnTokOyhvMfuz-2Bv9RuteA4wqI7MNw-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://dhhs.ne.gov/Grants%20and%20Contract%20Opportunity%20Docs/RHTP-3.3%20SNAP%20ET%20RFA.pdf</a>

RHTP-4.4A Chronic Disease Management Navigation and Education Initiative aims to connect people in need with resources to promote healthy living and strengthen coordination among patients and health systems. Eligible applicants include rural clinics, federally qualified health centers, certified community behavioral health clinics, local health departments, critical access hospitals, rural emergency hospitals, rural hospitals, tribal health facilities and more. Applications are due by March 17, 2026. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpoKj-2FmknhQ7ITEMSjELWuBFxuexpLxk6rAP9IEQe6AmprVBFYTzfcn-2F8vwVnyTRDeBhBky0-2BujA5QcO8FV3xCiFT8fYG7z-2BlCu-2B-2FtnybWccQAU8LSGMWFGBq8tz6qtN6JT2jXnMYJR1FGwVNABV7yGhq8GIieprudjSpr5GRVh6BdvlXykLOtYf56N9g-2FGf4og-3D-3Dq3KN_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyDFUXts0PPRvJVwOzrZydJLyKHOwrfm-2FVnUnD7DxPTfciEORkT5FIOfxBj-2FE5p80oi0FZylIwkZrt2ubbjamxSFRJubsYg38CTrnQHubvoRYw9GeRaDPgh9A25Fm1Ym2Skpqme3lg6v8Id-2FlQS7ejTV-2FBCPKHeTQzbatYQTfo1yOVBSKcg3waKOcTEZi3T1N-2B2IiAsriYKKuKVjby5K5iGR3MBVfpT5-2BaOCNgfSfb1JArN766-2F5eSkQaS-2BtLMaFOmHWzU9iyinqoE8yc2jKpQEga-2BzBWnARAY-2B1vxN8xFdnr4Icy4WckoFCsE-2Bui8vbe5kYpn4NjDyFJkqMjTKg4xkg-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://dhhs.ne.gov/Grants%20and%20Contract%20Opportunity%20Docs/RHTP-4.4A-Chronic-Disease-Management-Navigation-and-Education-Initiative.pdf</a>

DHHS intends to release multiple RFAs over the next five years to provide organizations with multiple opportunities to apply for funds and assist in implementing this important work. There will be additional application opportunities in each funding year, depending on funding availability.

Nebraska received $218.5 million for the first year of a five-year grant. DHHS received a revised notice of award from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) dated February 27, 2026, for Nebraska’s updated plan and budget. This approval allows DHHS to access the federal funds to launch Nebraska’s seven initiatives.

-Make Rural Nebraska Healthy Again Through Food as Medicine

-Regionalized Rural Access and Navigation. Rural Workforce Acceleration

-eHealth and Mobile Care. Rural Emergency Behavioral Health

-Assisted Living Facility Special Needs Population Incentive Model

-Nebraska Rural Health Technology Catalyst Fund and Partnership Initiative

RHTP is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernize rural health care and make it more sustainable. Nebraska’s plan will build a prevention first, tech-enabled, sustainable rural health care system.

To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpqnMDRrLWblbZqMJUxfWAj1SYw-2FwzaaoOA6HTG8Zncsrw6zss5-2BRWBeI8Laq-2FqdNzP-2Fdzu1EdS-2BxhrR2M83etTk-3De56c_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyDFUXts0PPRvJVwOzrZydJLyKHOwrfm-2FVnUnD7DxPTfciEORkT5FIOfxBj-2FE5p80oi0FZylIwkZrt2ubbjamxSFRJubsYg38CTrnQHubvoRYw9GeRaDPgh9A25Fm1Ym2Skpqme3lg6v8Id-2FlQS7ejTV-2FBCPKHeTQzbatYQTfo1yP9MFtvghbsOX2c-2FRpn3S2-2FNqWHBi8PI8-2FfC25YQYN3CkmXeyuxKtIZazpdVlbse8dnN2ti1RogJS8lQisO7RvBplTXXt0elf-2FAMa9UNkAE0FCdqRbvh2PnxAAFcBWUXpP4TjaVtTYMIH78ZRzuy2N3ijwTtuQbZ9j6UEZgq-2B-2FmMA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Rural-Health-Transformation.aspx</a>.

DHHS Releases RFAs for RHTP Funding Opportunities

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider 2026-2027 waterfowl hunting season recommendations at its March 20 meeting at Ponca State Park.

The meeting will start at 8 a.m. at the park’s Resource and Education Center, 88090 Spur 26, Ponca.

Staff recommendations will include a transition to a three duck-zone configuration instead of four. Boundary changes to duck zones and goose units approved by commissioners last June resulted in duck Zone 4 being relabeled to Zone 1. The former Zone 1 is being absorbed into Zone 2.

There also will be a recommendation for a nine-day early teal season in both Low Plains and High Plains zones due to blue-winged teal breeding population status.

The 2026-2027 Nebraska waterfowl recommendations are:

Daily bag limit – six; Possession limit – 18

Youth, Veteran and Active-Duty Military:

Zone 1 – Oct. 24-Nov. 11 and Nov. 24-Jan. 17

Zone 2 – Oct. 3-Dec. 15 and Jan. 6-27 (High Plains)

Zone 3 – Oct. 24-Jan. 5 and Jan. 6-27 (High Plains)

Daily bag – Tier 1: six ducks, with restrictions; Tier II: three ducks, any species, any sex; Possession limit – three times the daily bag limit

Daily bag limit – five; Possession limit – 15

Statewide – Oct. 3-Dec. 13 and Jan. 25-Feb. 9

Daily bag limit – two; Possession limit – six

Statewide – Oct. 3-Dec. 30 and Jan. 25-Feb. 9

Daily bag limit – 50; Possession limit – none

The commissioners also will consider staff recommendations to crow seasons and falconry waterfowl seasons.

Also on the agenda is a staff recommendation to approve the acquisition of the 112-acre Oswald Tract in Fillmore County as an addition to Redhead Wildlife Management Area.

Staff also will give several presentations, including a look at Game and Parks’ events celebrating the nation’s 250th&nbsp;anniversary, educational programming at Ponca SP, rainbow trout production and stocking, the 100th&nbsp;anniversary of Nebraskaland Magazine, a review of oak blight in Nebraska and the conservation officers’ internship program.

To view a complete agenda, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Foutdoornebraska.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cdd69d3d9-05afb324-65d9-4b9b-8609-9e9bbdd7d293-000000/2osHzGBzr7X8bw3eC0CAVWKv6x0Cobi2t-1lKy4imsQ=448" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and click on Public Notices.

Commissioners to Consider 2026-2027 Waterfowl Recommendations

SWANN Urgent Operational Message to Service Area Public

By Ria Rebman, Marketing &amp; Workforce Coordinator, Trusted Community Development

OSHKOSH, Neb.&nbsp;— The Oshkosh Creative District 77 has received the full $100,000 Nebraska Arts Council Creative District Development Grant, a major investment that will help advance the district’s vision and build on the momentum already underway in Oshkosh.

The grant supports continued development of Oshkosh Creative District 77 and reflects the strength of a community that has embraced art, community pride and collaboration as part of its future. Recently certified as a Nebraska Creative District, Oshkosh has built a growing identity around creativity, public art and a strong sense of place.

Oshkosh has built a Creative District that stands out not only for its visual character, but for the energy and local vision behind it. The district features murals, metal sculptures, mosaics and barn quilts, with even more public art found throughout Oshkosh and Garden County. Current and planned Creative District efforts include branding, signage, marketing, themed events and downtown enhancements.

Since September 2023, Oshkosh Creative District 77 Committee members leading this effort have included Jo Lynn Blackwell, James Bondegard, Elaine Lake, Kim Martin, Lauren Olson, Tessa Paulsen, Mike Piva, Sue Piva, Myra Ring, Nancy Schaffer, Marlis Shearer, Brittany Waltman and Karen Westerbuhr.

“This is exciting news for Oshkosh and for everyone who has helped shape this vision,” said James Bondegard, City Administrator for the City of Oshkosh. “Oshkosh is becoming a true creative destination in Nebraska, and this funding helps us continue building on the energy, creativity and community spirit that already make this place stand out.”

The grant application was supported by Trusted Community Development, with grant writing led by Brandy Stone, whose work helped bring the district’s vision, strategy and potential impact into focus.

“This award reflects the strength of Oshkosh’s vision and the collaboration behind bringing it to life,” said Brandy Stone, Grant Writer for Trusted Community Development. “It was an honor to help tell the story of a community that has already invested so much in creativity, place and people.”

Community leaders say the funding will help Oshkosh Creative District 77 continue strengthening its identity as a vibrant, welcoming place where art, community pride and economic vitality intersect.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Oshkosh Receives Full $100,000 Grant to Advance Creative District Vision

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College's Student Success Center will host a Career Fair Wednesday, April 8, at Cougar Palace on the Scottsbluff Campus.

The Career Fair will be open to all WNCC students, high school seniors and community members from 9 a.m. to Noon, and will include a variety of businesses from the Panhandle that are looking to fill open job and internship listings.

Those in the community searching for employment or interested in a new career path are encouraged to attend. The Career Fair will also provide an opportunity for employers to meet with other businesses and network with a potential future workforce.

"This is the perfect opportunity for employers and the community to come together," Katie Moser, advising director said. "The best way to land a job is to shake hands, hand over a resume and get to know one another. An in-person experience cannot be beaten. The WNCC Career Fair offers employers, students, and community members the chance to have such an interaction."

There is no fee for job seekers to attend the Career Fair and no RSVP is needed. Attendees are encouraged to bring their resume and dress in interview-ready clothing. On-site interviews are possible.

Employers wanting to reserve a table for the event can contact Ashley Harman at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:harmana1@wncc.edu" target="_blank">harmana1@wncc.edu</a>&nbsp;or 308-635-6347.

WNCC to Host Career Fair on April 8

By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) proudly recognizes March as Social Worker Month, celebrating the hard work of frontline staff as they support children and families in Nebraska communities.

Social workers do far more than fulfill the responsibilities outlined in a job description. Each day, they go above and beyond to coordinate services, remove barriers and ensure that families have the tools and support they need to succeed. Their work requires compassion, persistence and a deep commitment to helping others navigate life’s most challenging moments.

At the heart of this work is the belief that every child deserves the right home at the right time.

From connecting families with resources to facilitating collaboration among service providers, social workers serve as advocates, problem-solvers and trusted partners. They often act as a bridge between families and the systems designed to support them, ensuring clear communication, that needs are understood and that services are delivered effectively.

Behind the scenes, social workers spend countless hours advocating for families, addressing barriers and identifying solutions that promote long-term success. They provide encouragement during difficult moments and celebrate progress alongside the families they serve. Their efforts help create safe environments for children, support family reunification when possible and promote permanency and stability.

“Social workers are often the steady, guiding presence during times of uncertainty,” said DHHS Division of Children and Family Services Director Dr. Alyssa Bish. “Their willingness to go the extra mile ensures that children and families don’t just receive services, but that they receive meaningful, coordinated support that sets them up for success.”

The impact of social work extends far beyond a single interaction. Because of their advocacy and commitment, families gain confidence, children experience greater stability and communities grow stronger.

During Social Work Month, DHHS extends sincere appreciation to all social workers whose compassion, coordination and dedication make a lasting difference in the lives of the families they serve. Their devotion to helping every child find the right home at the right time strengthens our entire community.

DHHS Celebrates March As Social Worker Month

Wildlife officials bolstered research and monitoring efforts of big game species in Nebraska with the help of a contracted helicopter crew in February.

With cooperation from landowners, elk, mule deer and bighorn sheep were captured, processed and returned to the landscape in specific regions of the state.

The most recent of the captures was Feb. 23 when 32 bighorn sheep were fitted with radio collars in the Wildcat Hills and Pine Ridge. The captures were part of a continuing effort to track movements, distribution, habitat use, survival and disease prevalence.

In recent years, bighorn sheep captures have been conducted annually by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission in collaboration with many conservation partners. Once extirpated, the species stands at about 220 sheep in the Panhandle.

In mid-February, 58 mule deer were fitted with tracking collars or solar ear tags in the Wildcat Hills for a study aimed at investigating the impact of chronic wasting disease in the species. Additional biological samples were collected for data about mule deer health and to develop and evaluate tools for CWD detection in live animals.

The research project, now in its third year, is a partnership between Game and Parks, the National Wildlife Research Center and Colorado State University. Researchers are working to develop understanding about how CWD affects deer populations, identify areas of increased transmission through accumulation on the land, and determine CWD infection status and behavioral responses by observing how animals use the landscape.

In a research project led by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, elk captures were conducted in hunting units 7 and 14 of the state’s central and north-central regions Feb. 2-6.

This is the fourth and final year of the project’s capture phase with 28 elk captured and radio-collared. Since 2022, 229 elk have been collared throughout the species’ range in Nebraska.

The project is evaluating resource selection, movement, survival and population dynamics of elk.

The analysis phase has begun and is set for completion in 2028. Findings will guide management decisions for the species.

Wildlife Captures Providing Insights to Big Game Species

KEARNEY, Neb.&nbsp; — Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from the Kearney Police Department and TRIDENT Task Force, arrested one person as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation.

On Friday, investigators served a search warrant at a house in the 200 block of East 26th Street in Kearney. In the search, investigators found over 5 grams of THC wax, 61 grams of marijuana, over 50 THC vape cartridges, and 9 firearms.

The resident, Jacob Broweleit, 19-years-old, was arrested for two counts of distribution of a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school, one count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a school, and one count of distribution of a controlled substance. He was lodged in Buffalo County Jail. The investigation remains ongoing.

Narcotics Investigation Leads to Arrest of Kearney Man

By Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture News

The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture Crops Judging Team continued an exceptional competitive season this weekend, earning first-place team honors at the Iowa State Crops Contest and claiming nine of the top ten individual placings.

Other team members competing included Jada Eilert, Hailey Loutzenhiser, Kyra Jespersen, Mason Semler and Rachel Bose; also achieving top 10 individual scores as unofficial contestants.

Crops judging competitions challenge students to apply advanced agronomy knowledge through crop and seed identification, laboratory analysis, production problem solving and agronomic calculations. The fast-paced contests simulate the real-world decisions crop consultants, agronomists and producers make in the field.

“The Iowa State contest was another great learning experience for the students and their hard work continues to show great results,” said Dr. Brad Ramsdale, NCTA agronomy professor and crops judging team coach.

“We also had the opportunity to tour Corteva’s Pioneer Seed Headquarters in Johnston, IA, which included their high-tech greenhouse facility and laboratories for advancing crop genetics,” Ramsdale said.

Experiences like competitive judging, applied lab work and direct interaction with industry partners reflect the spirit of NCTA’s AgVantage Pathway—a partnership-driven approach to experiential education that connects students directly with the agriculture industry.

Through these rigorous competitions, students sharpen the analytical skills needed for careers as crop consultants, agronomy sales professionals and precision agriculture specialists. Others build a strong foundation for continuing their education in agronomy and crop science at four-year universities.

For many NCTA students who come from family farming operations, the experience also translates directly back to the farm. The agronomic training gained through judging competitions equips them with the ability to diagnose crop challenges, evaluate soil and plant conditions and apply science-based production practices that help maximize yields and improve long-term sustainability.

At NCTA, these experiences demonstrate how a hands-on education and strong industry partnerships prepare students to lead the next generation of crop production—whether advising producers across the region or applying their expertise at home on the family farm.

NCTA Crops Judging Team Wins Iowa State Contest, Continues Season of Dominance

By Cara Pesek,&nbsp;NU Senior Director of Communications

University of Nebraska President Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, and University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine Dean Bradley Britigan, MD, attended a March 5 news conference announcing the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ new pilot program expanding nutrition education in medical school curricula.

Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr.&nbsp;led the event, announcing that medical schools across the country had committed to providing at least 40 hours of nutrition education as part of their medical school curricula.

Expanding nutrition education is an effort that has been underway at UNMC for several years.

Dr. Gold was a featured speaker at the event, which also included Secretary of Education Linda McMahon; Bobby Mukkumala, MD, president of the American Medical Association; David Skorton, MD, president of the Association of American Medical Colleges; and Robert Cain, DO, president of the American Association of College of Osteopathic Medicine.

<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/5tra8f/h7pjozpf/p9g4ep" target="_blank">See a list of participating institutions</a>.

“Much of our health is a gift from our parents. That is the genetic code that we carry, which may create risk, predisposition or even some outcomes, but the environment and lifestyle personal decisions frequently determine the timing, the severity and the total outcome of what that may be.

“The team-based system of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, therapists and so many others work hand in hand with our patients and their families and the communities and not just our medical schools, but our undergraduate colleges, our K-through-12 systems, our early childhood programs together to focus on health and wellness.”

<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/5tra8f/h7pjozpf/51h4ep" target="_blank">See HHS information on the event</a>.

Prior to the event, Dr. Gold said that education on healthy living, as well as disease prevention and treatment, is a critical component of physician training and&nbsp;necessitates an understanding of the role of nutrition in these areas.&nbsp;

“We are excited to participate in the effort to bring new focus to evidence-based nutrition education in medical school curricula,” Dr. Gold said. “This is an area the University of Nebraska Medical Center has been strengthening for a number of years, through the work of a dedicated team, established by the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine and our six other health professions colleges.&nbsp;Together these colleges have been working to expand the research and application of nutrition concepts across all phases of the medical curriculum.”

Geoffrey Talmon, MD, senior associate dean of medical education at UNMC, said the effort to expand nutrition education in the College of Medicine’s curriculum began in 2019 and was initiated at the request of medical students, and that a task force continues to explore ways to build the curriculum.

“The task force has done an incredible job of organically incorporating this material,” Dr. Talmon said. “We're definitely ahead of the curve compared to peer institutions on this issue, and the number of hours outlined in the initiative is in line with the goals we had set for ourselves.”

The college’s curriculum committee will continue to oversee the nutrition curriculum expansion and approve what, when and how things are taught, Dr. Talmon said.

NU Pres. Gold, UNMC Leaders, Join National Launch of Med School Nutrition Initiative

The morning session will focus on housing with a presentation from JEO on study and next steps for communities.

The afternoon session will cover childcare, with updates from the&nbsp;Panhandle Childcare Expansion Project&nbsp;and regional partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

6 Regions, One Nebraska Hosting Event in Gering Civic Center

Victory Underground to play in Alliance

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

🎥US destroyed 16 mine-laying vessels as Iran threatens to block Gulf oil exports

🎥Dignified transfer for 7th US service member to die in Iran conflict

REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. –&nbsp;The Department of War announced the death of a U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command Soldier who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.

Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, died March 8 of his wounds received during the Iranian regime’s initial attacks across the Middle East. He was seriously injured at the scene of an attack on U.S. troops at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, on March 1. Pennington was assigned to the 1st Space Brigade, at Fort Carson, Colorado. The incident is under investigation.

"The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Pennington,” Lt. Gen. Sean A. Gainey, USASMDC commanding general, said. “He gave the ultimate sacrifice for the country he loved. That makes him nothing less than a hero, and he will always be remembered that way. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."

“Sgt. Pennington was a dedicated and experienced noncommissioned officer who led with strength, professionalism and sense of duty,” Col. Michael F. Dyer, 1st Space Brigade commander, said. “Our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and fellow Soldiers. We remain dedicated to providing comfort and support at this time and will forever honor his legacy and ultimate sacrifice for our nation.”

Pennington, a resident of Glendale, Kentucky, enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 92Y, unit supply specialist, in 2017. He was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, USASMDC, on June 10, 2025.

Pennington’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (2), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Korea Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

Pennington was promotable and will be posthumously promoted to staff sergeant.

Pentagon IDs 7th U.S. soldier to die in Iran conflict

On March 8, at the direction of the U.S. Souther Command Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations, according to a social media report the U.S. Southern Command.

 Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Six male narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military forces were harmed.

The death toll is now 157 people since the U.S. military began targeting&nbsp; “narcoterrorists” in small vessels in September 2025.

🎥US military kills 6 in new strike on drug boat in the Eastern Pacific

On Saturday night, a U.S. service member passed away from injuries received during the Iranian regime’s initial attacks across the Middle East, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The service member was seriously wounded at the scene of an attack on U.S. troops in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on March 1.

This is the seventh service member killed in action during Operation Epic Fury. Major combat operations continue. The identity of the fallen warrior will be withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notification.

A U.S. National Guard Soldier also died in a health-related incident in Kuwait on March 6 during a medical emergency, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The exact cause of death is under review.

U.S. military reports more service member deaths in Iran conflict

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kevinhardy/">Kevin Hardy</a>

Online prediction markets allow users to put money on the outcome of almost anything — this weekend’s NBA game between the Warriors and the Thunder, the next supreme leader of Iran, whether the government will confirm the existence of aliens.

But those markets have no state oversight and operate even in states that ban gambling.

The platforms are raising bipartisan alarms, especially related to sports gambling. As states have legalized sports betting in recent years, they’ve required legal sportsbooks to jump through multiple hoops — from age verification procedures to protections for gambling addiction to tax collections. Online prediction markets circumvent all those rules.

Platforms including Kalshi and Polymarket say they are offering contracts similar to commodity markets that speculate on the future price of corn or oil — not outright gambling. But a growing number of states are rejecting those justifications, arguing the platforms are offering a backdoor to skirt state gambling regulations, particularly on sports.

The issue has sparked action from state regulators, new legislation, and lawsuits from both states and prediction markets. Complicating matters are the federal government’s moves to block state regulation of prediction markets, which see more than&nbsp;<a href="https://theconversation.com/everything-can-be-a-bet-now-the-rise-and-risks-of-prediction-markets-276464" target="_blank">$13 billion</a>&nbsp;in transactions each month.

Most activity on those platforms revolves around sports. And in national ads, Kalshi even marketed itself as the first national legal sports betting platform — even though states approve and regulate sports gambling since a 2018 Supreme Court decision. In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americangaming.org/research/state-of-play-map/" target="_blank">11 states,</a>&nbsp;sports gambling remains illegal.

“This is sports wagering. If it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it’s probably sports wagering, in this situation,” said Kentucky state Rep. Michael Meredith, a Republican.

Meredith, who sponsored a 2023 law that legalized sports betting in Kentucky, called for states to regulate prediction markets during a webinar hosted by the National Conference of State Legislatures. That organization, representing state legislators across the country, has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsl.org/resources/details/ncsl-urges-congress-to-address-unregulated-sports-betting-via-prediction-markets" target="_blank">urged Congress</a>&nbsp;“to act swiftly to address the rapid growth of unregulated sports‑related event contracts.”

State leaders argue their longstanding authority to oversee gambling should allow states to regulate or ban prediction market platforms. But those companies maintain they are not beholden to state regulations.

“I think it’s very clear that this authority should be vested in our state governments,” Meredith said last month.

In New York, lawmakers are considering&nbsp;<a href="https://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?default_fld=&amp;leg_video=&amp;bn=A09251&amp;term=&amp;Summary=Y&amp;Actions=Y&amp;Text=Y" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;that would ban prediction markets from offering contracts on sports events, in addition to natural disasters, acts of terrorism and deaths. In Nevada, where gambling and tourism are top economic drivers, regulators are involved in a&nbsp;<a href="https://nevadacurrent.com/2026/02/24/protracted-legal-fight-expected-in-nevada-v-kalshi/" target="_blank">protracted legal fight&nbsp;</a>after the state sought to stop prediction market activity on sports.

“To me, this is clearly gambling,” Thomas Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment, which operates casinos and sports betting,&nbsp;said during a company&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2026/02/17/caesars-czr-q4-2025-earnings-call-transcript/" target="_blank">earnings call</a>&nbsp;in January.

But states are also fighting an obscure federal agency seeking to protect the emerging marketplace. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission, which regulates&nbsp;<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/derivative.asp" target="_blank">derivatives</a>&nbsp;such as futures contracts on stocks, has asserted it has “exclusive jurisdiction” over prediction markets and promised to fight state regulatory efforts in court.

The CTFC did not respond to Stateline’s request for comment. Neither did Kalshi or Polymarket, two of the leading prediction market companies.

Unless Congress passes legislation, experts say the courts will ultimately decide what role states can play in regulating prediction markets.

The standoff has led to litigation between the platforms and states in at least eight states, and officials in 11 states have sent cease and desist orders to prediction market companies, according to the American Gaming Association, an industry group representing casinos and sports books. A bipartisan group of attorneys general from 39 states and the District of Columbia recently urged a federal court to uphold state authority to regulate sports gambling.

The American Gaming Association says prediction markets should either get out of the sports betting business or follow the same regulations and rules that apply to sportsbooks such as DraftKings and FanDuel.

“They don’t want to pay the taxes, they don’t want to undergo the compliance and provide all of the consumer protections that are required by states of operators who operate legal sports betting,” said Tres York, the vice president of government relations for the association.

The organization estimates states have lost out on more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americangaming.org/sports-event-contracts/" target="_blank">$570 million</a>&nbsp;in sports gambling tax revenues since prediction markets began offering sports events contracts.

Many state leaders and experts are<a href="https://stateline.org/2024/12/05/growth-of-sports-betting-may-be-linked-to-financial-woes-new-studies-find/" target="_blank">&nbsp;already concerned</a>&nbsp;about the societal effects from the meteoric rise of sports gambling, which has transformed collegiate and professional sports, and the potential for&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/09/09/wagers-on-touchdowns-strikeouts-and-even-penalties-states-eye-limits-on-prop-bets/" target="_blank">manipulation</a>&nbsp;by players.

“If you already have what I would call an epidemic of sports betting addiction in this country when you have regulated sports betting, imagine what it’s going to be like when you have essentially unregulated sports betting,” said Benjamin Schiffrin, director of securities policy at Better Markets, a nonprofit watchdog group advocating for consumer and investor financial protections.

The wide range of available bets also is raising alarms over election integrity and insider trading. In addition to individual elections, prediction markets have allowed wagers on the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and the timing of the U.S. strike on Iran. Last week, hundreds of thousands of dollars were bet the day before the Iranian strikes, and more than 100 accounts cashed in $10,000 or more from successful predictions, according to a New York Times&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/03/upshot/prediction-markets-iran-strikes.html" target="_blank">analysis</a>.

“It’s a huge change to all of a sudden allow betting on elections, and it really threatens the underpinnings of our democracy,” Schiffrin said. “It just seems like there’s tremendous potential for wrongdoing.”

On its&nbsp;<a href="https://news.kalshi.com/p/values-and-principles-for-prediction-markets" target="_blank">website</a>, Kalshi says it operates under a “strict regulatory framework” with a suite of market integrity, surveillance, financial safeguards, and anti-manipulation protections.

Citing what it called “an onslaught” of state litigation, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission last month filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/PressReleases/9183-26" target="_blank">court brief&nbsp;</a>underscoring its authority to regulate prediction markets.

“To those who seek to challenge our authority in this space, let me be clear: We will see you in court,” Commissioner Mike Selig said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cftc.gov/Exit/index.htm?https://x.com/ChairmanSelig/status/2023744651216240966?s=20" target="_blank">video</a>&nbsp;posted on social media. Selig is the only member of the presidentially appointed commission, which currently has four vacancies.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, a Republican, immediately vowed to oppose the federal agency and the prediction platforms in court. Gambling has been&nbsp;<a href="https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title76/Chapter9/76-9-S1402.html" target="_blank">banned</a>&nbsp;under the Utah Constitution since the state’s founding, and Cox posted on social media that prediction markets are “destroying the lives of families.”

Kalshi&nbsp;<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/02/24/kalshi-sues-utah-over-proposed-prop-betting-ban/" target="_blank">swiftly sued&nbsp;</a>the governor and the state in federal court in anticipation of enforcement efforts and pending legislation in Salt Lake City. The company’s lawsuit cited the governor’s post and a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.deseret.com/opinion/2026/02/22/utah-gambling-apps-prediciton-markets-harmful-dangerous/" target="_blank">column penned</a>&nbsp;by Republican Attorney General Derek Brown explaining why he joined Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, a Democrat, “in urging Congress to address offshore gambling operations that disregard state law and target young Americans.”

Utah Republican state Rep. Joseph Elison sponsored the&nbsp;<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/02/23/utah-legislature-advances-ban-on-proposition-betting/" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;cited in Kalshi’s lawsuit. The bill, which has passed both chambers, would expand the state’s definition of gambling to include&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/09/09/wagers-on-touchdowns-strikeouts-and-even-penalties-states-eye-limits-on-prop-bets/" target="_blank">proposition betting</a>&nbsp;— bets on the performance of an individual player or team that don’t necessarily affect the outcome of a competition. While Elison acknowledged the courts will ultimately determine the issue, he said prediction markets are essentially offering proposition betting without authorization.

”We’re 50 independent sovereigns that gave centralized government to the federal government to do certain things,” he told Stateline. “But the rest, we want those things to be under our purview. And this is one of those.”

In early rulings on the matter, courts have issued a mix of opinions: States have found initial success in state courts while results have been more mixed in federal courts, said Daniel Wallach, a gaming and sports gambling attorney tracking the issue.

But federal law has long affirmed state authority to oversee gambling, he said.

Despite attempts to cast transactions as investments, Wallach says courts will look at the substance of bets, which he said are almost indistinguishable from those made in state-regulated betting markets.

“The argument that this is investing rather than gambling is essentially elevating form over substance,” he said. “Plain and simple, this is wagering on the outcome of a sporting event.”

Wallach said state efforts such as cease and desist orders are counterproductive, as they essentially invite federal lawsuits from prediction market firms. He said states are better off pursuing gambling enforcement efforts in state courts, where several have won preliminary injunctions&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/judge-bans-kalshi-offering-sports-events-contracts-massachusetts-30-days-2026-02-06/" target="_blank">halting operations&nbsp;</a>of the platforms temporarily.

For now, he said the federal agency has applied almost no scrutiny of the platforms, noting that the president’s family has a financial interest in the industry.

Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son, has a business interest in two of the largest online prediction markets, and the president’s social media platform Truth Social announced it would start its own prediction market, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/15/us/politics/donald-trump-jr-prediction-markets.html" target="_blank">The New York Times</a>.

Journalist Dustin Gouker, who authors<a href="https://substack.com/@dustingouker" target="_blank">&nbsp;newsletters</a>&nbsp;on gambling and prediction markets, noted that the CFTC rules that currently regulate prediction markets were built for financial products — not gambling. He said prediction markets have moved into the gaming market because “nobody said no.”

“It’s a bit of a mess,” he said. “If we’re going to have betting in 50 states for everyone 18 and over, shouldn’t we have thought about that a little bit more?”

Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:khardy@stateline.org">khardy@stateline.org</a>.&nbsp;

This story was originally produced by&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2026/03/06/kalshi-and-polymarket-are-skirting-laws-on-sports-betting-states-say/" target="_blank">Stateline</a>, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Missouri Independent, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

Kalshi and Polymarket are skirting laws on sports betting, states say

🎥President attends dignified transfer of 6 Americans killed in Operation Epic Fury

CHICAGO (AP) — From former presidents to an NBA Hall of Famer to prominent pastors, stories of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jesse-jackson-dies-43abb84d2ffc76d967f9a5596ebd0be1">the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.’s</a>&nbsp;influence on politics, corporate boardrooms and picket lines loomed large Friday at a celebration honoring the late civil rights leader.

🎥Biden, Obama, Harris remember the late Rev. Jesse Jackson 

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.”

Local

Region

Sports

Announcements