SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. -&nbsp;The Nebraska Community College Association hosted its annual awards ceremony in Lincoln in November, and two WNCC employees and an alum were recognized.

Jodi Ruzicka was honored as the NCCA Distinguished Alumni from WNCC. A lifelong resident of the Scottsbluff-Gering area, Ruzicka graduated from WNCC in 1995, while balancing a full-time career in banking, and raising a family. She currently serves as a financial advisor for the Platte Valley Investment Center, helping others financially plan for the future. Ruzicka has a passion for helping others not only in her job, but in the community. She chairs the Oregon Trail Days Planning Committee, serves on the WNCC Foundation Board, and volunteers with the Legacy of the Plains Museum.

The NCCA Faculty Member Award went to Marcene Elwell, WNCC's surgical technology instructor and program director. Elwell has been at WNCC for 8 years, and spends countless hours with her students, traveling across the state and into Colorado and Wyoming to aid in their clinicals, and proudly promotes WNCC's program at recruitment events. Her hard work, positivity, and dedication has made a lasting impact on WNCC and her students.

Pauline Newman, WNCC's accounting services director, received the NCCA Administrators/Staff Award. Her leadership creates a supportive work environment where people feel valued and empowered. Newman also serves as the accountant for the WNCC Foundation, where in the last year, helped guide the Foundation through two major transitions that increase both transparency and accountability within the Foundation.

The NCCA is comprised of five member schools: Central, Mid-Plains, Northeast, Southeast and Western Nebraska. Each year the NCCA holds its annual meeting at one of the member schools and awards&nbsp;Faculty, Governor, Administrator, and Friend of Community College awards, along with a Distinguished Alumni Award.

By Western Nebraska Community College<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764884894144.jpeg" alt="Jodi Ruzicka, Class of 1995, was presented with the 2025 Distinguished Alumni at the 2025 NCCA Conference." />
 <figcaption>Jodi Ruzicka, Class of 1995, was presented with the 2025 Distinguished Alumni at the 2025 NCCA Conference.</figcaption>
 </figure>SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. -&nbsp;The Nebraska Community College Association hosted its annual awards ceremony in Lincoln in November, and two WNCC employees and an alum were recognized.Jodi Ruzicka was honored as the NCCA Distinguished Alumni from WNCC. A lifelong resident of the Scottsbluff-Gering area, Ruzicka graduated from WNCC in 1995, while balancing a full-time career in banking, and raising a family. She currently serves as a financial advisor for the Platte Valley Investment Center, helping others financially plan for the future. Ruzicka has a passion for helping others not only in her job, but in the community. She chairs the Oregon Trail Days Planning Committee, serves on the WNCC Foundation Board, and volunteers with the Legacy of the Plains Museum.The NCCA Faculty Member Award went to Marcene Elwell, WNCC's surgical technology instructor and program director. Elwell has been at WNCC for 8 years, and spends countless hours with her students, traveling across the state and into Colorado and Wyoming to aid in their clinicals, and proudly promotes WNCC's program at recruitment events. Her hard work, positivity, and dedication has made a lasting impact on WNCC and her students.Pauline Newman, WNCC's accounting services director, received the NCCA Administrators/Staff Award. Her leadership creates a supportive work environment where people feel valued and empowered. Newman also serves as the accountant for the WNCC Foundation, where in the last year, helped guide the Foundation through two major transitions that increase both transparency and accountability within the Foundation.The NCCA is comprised of five member schools: Central, Mid-Plains, Northeast, Southeast and Western Nebraska. Each year the NCCA holds its annual meeting at one of the member schools and awards&nbsp;Faculty, Governor, Administrator, and Friend of Community College awards, along with a Distinguished Alumni Award.

WNCC Alum and Two Staff Honored at NCCA Awards Ceremony

CHADRON, Neb. — Chadron State College’s Winter Commencement Speaker will be Dr. Hortensia Soto. Since 2020, Soto, a CSC Distinguished Young Alumni recipient, has been a professor of mathematics at Colorado State University and Graduate Director in the Department of Mathematics since 2023. The combined ceremony for undergraduates and graduates will be Friday, Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. in the Chicoine Center.

Originally from Morrill, Nebraska, Soto earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s in mathematics education from CSC. She earned an additional master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Arizona, and a doctorate in Educational Mathematics from the University of Northern Colorado.

Soto has promoted mathematics via summer outreach programs and frequently facilitates professional development for K-16 teachers, including in the Nebraska Panhandle.

She is a working member of the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) where she has served as associate treasurer, associate secretary, president, and an editor of the MAA&nbsp;Instructional&nbsp;Practices&nbsp;Guide that provides national guidance for effective, research-informed mathematics teaching.

Soto began her career as an assistant and later associate professor of mathematics at Colorado State University–Pueblo from 1995 to 2005. She also taught 15 years at the University of Northern Colorado, advancing to full professor.

She has been recognized for excellence in teaching, mentorship and service at the departmental, college and national levels. Early in her career, she was honored with awards such as the Graduate Deans Citation for Excellence and the Most Supportive Faculty Award at CSU-Pueblo.

Recent highlights include a 2022 nomination for the CSU Alumni Association’s Best Teacher Award and the prestigious 2018 MAA Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics. Additional honors include multiple outstanding faculty recognitions from student groups, residence life programs and academic units.

Her contributions extend beyond the classroom into research mentorship and institutional service. She earned the College of Natural and Health Sciences’ Excellence in Faculty Research Mentor Award and the Excellence in Service Award at the University of Northern Colorado and the MAA Meritorious Service Award.

Soto also contributes to cross-institutional collaborations that investigate professional development opportunities for collegiate instructors and the role of teachers in supporting students’ reasoning.

Her research centers on the teaching and learning of K-16 mathematics and embraces a philosophy that claims learning is body-based. She has used this lens in teaching and researching the learning of applicable mathematical concepts.

She has about 100 publications and delivered about 100 talks about her work nationally and internationally. Her early publications included studies on students’ geometric reasoning and expert conceptions of complex-valued functions. She has also published extensively about mathematics teacher education, pre-service teacher learning, technology-enhanced instruction, assessment practices and initiatives supporting women in mathematics.

Soto’s 25 years of research centers on how students learn advanced mathematics through visualization, metaphor and active learning. Her articles focus on deepening mathematical understanding through innovative modes of learning and improving mathematics education from the secondary level to undergraduate and teacher-preparation settings. Recent articles explore imaginative approaches to abstract algebra and new frameworks in mathematical thinking.

Her extensive publications include recurring contributions to the MAA, as well as numerous peer-reviewed conference proceedings exploring embodied learning, teacher preparation, undergraduate mathematics education and student engagement. She highlights collaborative partnerships, inclusive pedagogy, broadening participation in STEM, and innovative approaches to understanding and teaching mathematics.

In her free time, she enjoys hiking, snowshoeing, practicing yoga, meditating and spending time with her son, Miguel.

By CSC College Relations<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764870961772.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College’s Winter 2025 Commencement Speaker will be Dr. Hortensia Soto who was recognized as a Distinguished Young Alumni in 2001. She earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s in mathematics education from CSC. She earned an additional master's degree in mathematics from the University of Arizona and a doctorate in Educational Mathematics from the University of Northern Colorado. (Photography by Desiree)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College’s Winter 2025 Commencement Speaker will be Dr. Hortensia Soto who was recognized as a Distinguished Young Alumni in 2001. She earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s in mathematics education from CSC. She earned an additional master's degree in mathematics from the University of Arizona and a doctorate in Educational Mathematics from the University of Northern Colorado. (Photography by Desiree)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON, Neb. — Chadron State College’s Winter Commencement Speaker will be Dr. Hortensia Soto. Since 2020, Soto, a CSC Distinguished Young Alumni recipient, has been a professor of mathematics at Colorado State University and Graduate Director in the Department of Mathematics since 2023. The combined ceremony for undergraduates and graduates will be Friday, Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. in the Chicoine Center.Originally from Morrill, Nebraska, Soto earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s in mathematics education from CSC. She earned an additional master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Arizona, and a doctorate in Educational Mathematics from the University of Northern Colorado.Soto has promoted mathematics via summer outreach programs and frequently facilitates professional development for K-16 teachers, including in the Nebraska Panhandle.She is a working member of the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) where she has served as associate treasurer, associate secretary, president, and an editor of the MAA&nbsp;Instructional&nbsp;Practices&nbsp;Guide that provides national guidance for effective, research-informed mathematics teaching.Soto began her career as an assistant and later associate professor of mathematics at Colorado State University–Pueblo from 1995 to 2005. She also taught 15 years at the University of Northern Colorado, advancing to full professor.She has been recognized for excellence in teaching, mentorship and service at the departmental, college and national levels. Early in her career, she was honored with awards such as the Graduate Deans Citation for Excellence and the Most Supportive Faculty Award at CSU-Pueblo.Recent highlights include a 2022 nomination for the CSU Alumni Association’s Best Teacher Award and the prestigious 2018 MAA Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics. Additional honors include multiple outstanding faculty recognitions from student groups, residence life programs and academic units.Her contributions extend beyond the classroom into research mentorship and institutional service. She earned the College of Natural and Health Sciences’ Excellence in Faculty Research Mentor Award and the Excellence in Service Award at the University of Northern Colorado and the MAA Meritorious Service Award.Soto also contributes to cross-institutional collaborations that investigate professional development opportunities for collegiate instructors and the role of teachers in supporting students’ reasoning.Her research centers on the teaching and learning of K-16 mathematics and embraces a philosophy that claims learning is body-based. She has used this lens in teaching and researching the learning of applicable mathematical concepts.She has about 100 publications and delivered about 100 talks about her work nationally and internationally. Her early publications included studies on students’ geometric reasoning and expert conceptions of complex-valued functions. She has also published extensively about mathematics teacher education, pre-service teacher learning, technology-enhanced instruction, assessment practices and initiatives supporting women in mathematics.Soto’s 25 years of research centers on how students learn advanced mathematics through visualization, metaphor and active learning. Her articles focus on deepening mathematical understanding through innovative modes of learning and improving mathematics education from the secondary level to undergraduate and teacher-preparation settings. Recent articles explore imaginative approaches to abstract algebra and new frameworks in mathematical thinking.Her extensive publications include recurring contributions to the MAA, as well as numerous peer-reviewed conference proceedings exploring embodied learning, teacher preparation, undergraduate mathematics education and student engagement. She highlights collaborative partnerships, inclusive pedagogy, broadening participation in STEM, and innovative approaches to understanding and teaching mathematics.In her free time, she enjoys hiking, snowshoeing, practicing yoga, meditating and spending time with her son, Miguel.

Alumna, Math Educator to Speak at Winter Commencement

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;- Governor Jim Pillen is announcing a major milestone in Nebraska’s efforts to ensure all areas of the state have robust and reliable internet service. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has formally approved the state’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) final proposal. This authorizes Nebraska to transition from planning to implementation of its statewide broadband expansion strategy.

NTIA’s approval affirms Nebraska’s strategic, data-driven, and technology-neutral broadband plan – one that supports economic growth and improvements in education, healthcare and agriculture. From here, the state moves into the implementation phase, enabling approximately $44.5 million in federal funding and $21 million in private investment to deploy to the remaining unserved Nebraskans – the last 2 percent of homes, farms and small businesses still waiting for a reliable high-speed broadband option.

“This is a tremendous victory for Nebraska,” said Gov. Pillen. “Reliable broadband is essential for daily life, from schoolwork and healthcare to running a business or managing a farm. With this approval, rural Nebraskans who have been left waiting will finally have access to the same online opportunities and services as everyone else. Our plan is practical, responsible, and built to serve Nebraska’s needs today and for many years to come.”

BEAD funding was limited to the state’s remaining unserved locations and relies on a balanced mix of technologies designed to provide connectivity across Nebraska’s varied landscape. The approach being pursued is intended to support long-term reliability, responsible spending and practical solutions for the hardest-to-reach areas, positioning Nebraska to be among the first states to push projects into the market.

Nebraska Broadband Office (NBO) Director Patrick Haggerty said the federal approval marks the start of the transformational work ahead.&nbsp;“I am proud of our team’s relentless efforts in an ever-changing environment, and equally proud of the results,” he added. “This approval allows Nebraska to move quickly into deployment and begin connecting the remaining unserved locations.”

A sizeable amount of federal funding remains undeployed under BEAD. Gov. Pillen has advocated that the state be allowed to retain those funds and allocate them to other projects that would benefit from investment – endeavors that would enhance precision agriculture, biotechnology and artificial intelligence. The status of the remaining undeployed federal funding is expected to be announced early next year.

Gov. Pillen thanked President Trump and the U.S. Department of Commerce for implementing reforms to the BEAD program aimed at eliminating burdensome requirements and streamlining the build-out of broadband infrastructure.

“Those actions saved the program from Biden-era stagnation and ensures we can quickly and efficiently get high-speed internet to unserved and underserved areas in the most low-density rural parts of Nebraska, while protecting American taxpayers.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Governor's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720709542428.jpeg" alt=" Gov. Jim Pillen addresses attendees at a property tax town hall in Plattsmouth on Thursday, May 30, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Gov. Jim Pillen addresses attendees at a property tax town hall in Plattsmouth on Thursday, May 30, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;- Governor Jim Pillen is announcing a major milestone in Nebraska’s efforts to ensure all areas of the state have robust and reliable internet service. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has formally approved the state’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) final proposal. This authorizes Nebraska to transition from planning to implementation of its statewide broadband expansion strategy.NTIA’s approval affirms Nebraska’s strategic, data-driven, and technology-neutral broadband plan – one that supports economic growth and improvements in education, healthcare and agriculture. From here, the state moves into the implementation phase, enabling approximately $44.5 million in federal funding and $21 million in private investment to deploy to the remaining unserved Nebraskans – the last 2 percent of homes, farms and small businesses still waiting for a reliable high-speed broadband option.“This is a tremendous victory for Nebraska,” said Gov. Pillen. “Reliable broadband is essential for daily life, from schoolwork and healthcare to running a business or managing a farm. With this approval, rural Nebraskans who have been left waiting will finally have access to the same online opportunities and services as everyone else. Our plan is practical, responsible, and built to serve Nebraska’s needs today and for many years to come.”BEAD funding was limited to the state’s remaining unserved locations and relies on a balanced mix of technologies designed to provide connectivity across Nebraska’s varied landscape. The approach being pursued is intended to support long-term reliability, responsible spending and practical solutions for the hardest-to-reach areas, positioning Nebraska to be among the first states to push projects into the market.Nebraska Broadband Office (NBO) Director Patrick Haggerty said the federal approval marks the start of the transformational work ahead.&nbsp;“I am proud of our team’s relentless efforts in an ever-changing environment, and equally proud of the results,” he added. “This approval allows Nebraska to move quickly into deployment and begin connecting the remaining unserved locations.”A sizeable amount of federal funding remains undeployed under BEAD. Gov. Pillen has advocated that the state be allowed to retain those funds and allocate them to other projects that would benefit from investment – endeavors that would enhance precision agriculture, biotechnology and artificial intelligence. The status of the remaining undeployed federal funding is expected to be announced early next year.Gov. Pillen thanked President Trump and the U.S. Department of Commerce for implementing reforms to the BEAD program aimed at eliminating burdensome requirements and streamlining the build-out of broadband infrastructure.“Those actions saved the program from Biden-era stagnation and ensures we can quickly and efficiently get high-speed internet to unserved and underserved areas in the most low-density rural parts of Nebraska, while protecting American taxpayers.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Announces Federal Approval of Nebraska’s BEAD Final Proposal

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Raccoons and Cookies

ALLIANCE, Neb. - In this week's episode of the Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show, brought to you by Harris Sales in Alliance, Jake Schrantz talks with head coach of Alliance Boys Varsity Basketball, Jordan Mills.

They discuss last week's jamboree against Kimball, and look ahead to the regular season openers against Gering and Mitchell this weekend.

By Jake Schrantz<div><iframe title="Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show - 12/03/25 (Boys Basketball)" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=yfwhc-19de8d7-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>ALLIANCE, Neb. - In this week's episode of the Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show, brought to you by Harris Sales in Alliance, Jake Schrantz talks with head coach of Alliance Boys Varsity Basketball, Jordan Mills.They discuss last week's jamboree against Kimball, and look ahead to the regular season openers against Gering and Mitchell this weekend.

Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show - 12/03/25 (Boys Basketball)

UPDATED 12/3/25:&nbsp;Northwest Rural Public Power District, along with Nebraska Public Power District, have rescheduled their power outage in Hay Springs for next week, Wednesday, Dec. 10 from 10pm - 12 midnight MT.

************************************************************

COLUMBUS, Neb. – A planned outage is scheduled for electric customers in Hay Springs Wednesday, Dec. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. MT, to allow for work at a substation in the area.

The outage is being conducted so crews can conduct needed maintenance at the substation. “We know outages are not convenient, and we appreciate the patience of the impacted customers while the work is completed,” said NPPD Account Manager Jennifer Branson. “The work will help ensure reliable service to area customers, and crews will be working hard to complete the work in a safe and efficient manner.” 

NPPD works closely with impacted communities to schedule any planned outages. NPPD will notify impacted customers prior to the planned outage, and customers can call 1-877-ASK-NPPD if they have any questions. 

By Northwest Rural Public Power District<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764625912144.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATED 12/3/25:&nbsp;Northwest Rural Public Power District, along with Nebraska Public Power District, have rescheduled their power outage in Hay Springs for next week, Wednesday, Dec. 10 from 10pm - 12 midnight MT.************************************************************COLUMBUS, Neb. – A planned outage is scheduled for electric customers in Hay Springs Wednesday, Dec. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. MT, to allow for work at a substation in the area. The outage is being conducted so crews can conduct needed maintenance at the substation. “We know outages are not convenient, and we appreciate the patience of the impacted customers while the work is completed,” said NPPD Account Manager Jennifer Branson. “The work will help ensure reliable service to area customers, and crews will be working hard to complete the work in a safe and efficient manner.” NPPD works closely with impacted communities to schedule any planned outages. NPPD will notify impacted customers prior to the planned outage, and customers can call 1-877-ASK-NPPD if they have any questions.

UPDATE: Planned Outage for Customers in Hay Springs Dec. 10

By Alliance Public Schools<figure>
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Alliance Public Schools Board of Ed Meeting Agenda, Dec. 8

LINCOLN, Neb. — Across Nebraska, major projects are well underway or nearing completion along Interstate 80 (I-80). Construction on these projects -- stretching from Ogallala to Omaha – began in spring of 2024 and 2025. The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is providing the following project updates for drivers:

I-80 Westbound, Q Street to Giles Road

Covering 1.2 miles in Douglas and Sarpy counties, this project includes the repair of the I-80 bridge over West Papillion Creek, Eastport Parkway, and Harry Anderson Blvd., repair of the Harrison Street bridge over I-80, and widening of westbound I-80 from Q Street to Giles Road. The project is substantially complete with minor nighttime work scheduled for early December, weather permitting. This project is part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.b04f70AIkXepI61RSjEid1wcGxursQJ5tSuGL-2FYR1LD-2B0vA3Wiq8DRsW2Uq3wnNJet-2FIKv3TfOdvHQQpG3HPjQ-3D-3DIeIf_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyPhG1TMqI6e9S8KGoJbMSS-2FF4lQmv064gRlTzmG6k79oDqeGh-2FVzz4vetxundhxJ4fnw1Vx1NmeeAdOrUnb-2BZ0AUu7qjzne5kXzQzigWlbbhjDLj0bhTjLhqfPb1Ky2NJbSLTbD9nd364-2FaQjGdX73ZhNmNzzwML1s-2BoBOdDbXFaDvgmfKuNAg-2FdyfC34Iu9IVnZnBzawYbsPK61ammPfnV2tcFTQqlB99dRMxMXQygIavIvxRed4bBytczUaAfiP9FA3dD6phr8BKZ0nHBEwKI8kY05uJ1oRWAKrVRfgg1IL9nVuw-2FheL-2Bl1RKxElIzrAKjs4WZOR4O-2FjOrvst-2BVEA-3D-3D" target="_blank">MTIS</a>&nbsp;program.

This project covers 1.54 miles of I-80 in Sarpy County to repair the bridges over West Giles Road and South Papillion Creek, and to widen westbound I-80 from the bridges to 144th&nbsp;Street (Nebraska Highway 50).&nbsp;The project is substantially complete with minor nighttime work scheduled for early December, weather permitting.

The completion of these mark the first projects resulting from the Metro Area Travel Improvement Study (MTIS), a comprehensive, long-range transportation plan for the Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area. MTIS was a collaborative effort conducted by NDOT and the Omaha-Council Bluffs Metropolitan Area Planning Agency (MAPA) between 2014 and 2019.

I-80, Dawson County Line to Odessa

This project will rebuild 8.44 miles of I-80 in Buffalo County to replace deteriorated pavement and maintain the transportation system. Work includes reconstruction of the ramps at the Elm Creek-Holdrege interchange at Exit 257. Head-to-head traffic returned to normal on Nov. 3, 2025. Lane closures will remain for pavement marking and remedial work. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2026.

This rebuild of 7.24 miles of I-80 is located in Keith County. The asset preservation project includes the removal and replacement of the pavement and bridge work. A separate project is underway at the Ogallala westbound rest area, which will feature a new building, and expanded parking.

The project is approximately 50 percent complete. Eastbound lanes have been completed, and westbound lanes are scheduled to be replaced in 2026. Estimated completion date is late fall 2026.

I-80, Pleasant Dale to NW 56th Street

Located in Lancaster and Seward counties, this modernization project includes pavement and bridge replacement, expanding I-80 to six lanes, median barrier construction, and reconstruction of the on and off ramps at Nebraska Highway 103/NW 154th Street interchange at Exit 388. This project will increase traffic capacity while supporting and maintaining safe and efficient travel. Construction is currently in the second of three phases and is anticipated to be completed in 2027.

“I’d like to thank Nebraskans for their patience as we work to improve roadways across the state and the vital I-80 corridor,” NDOT Director Vicki Kramer said. “Tens of thousands of Nebraskans drive through these work zones every day. NDOT urges drivers to continue to be patient, and to drive carefully in work zones so we can all get home safe.”

As of Nov. 30, 2025, there have been 108 crashes year to date in these I-80 work zones, and 451 crashes in work zones statewide. In 2024, distracted driving was a factor in at least 2,740 crashes in Nebraska. There have been 1,797 distracted driving crashes as of Nov. 30, 2025, year to date.

By Nebraska Department of Transportation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757521079444.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. — Across Nebraska, major projects are well underway or nearing completion along Interstate 80 (I-80). Construction on these projects -- stretching from Ogallala to Omaha – began in spring of 2024 and 2025. The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is providing the following project updates for drivers:I-80 Westbound, Q Street to Giles RoadCovering 1.2 miles in Douglas and Sarpy counties, this project includes the repair of the I-80 bridge over West Papillion Creek, Eastport Parkway, and Harry Anderson Blvd., repair of the Harrison Street bridge over I-80, and widening of westbound I-80 from Q Street to Giles Road. The project is substantially complete with minor nighttime work scheduled for early December, weather permitting. This project is part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.b04f70AIkXepI61RSjEid1wcGxursQJ5tSuGL-2FYR1LD-2B0vA3Wiq8DRsW2Uq3wnNJet-2FIKv3TfOdvHQQpG3HPjQ-3D-3DIeIf_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyPhG1TMqI6e9S8KGoJbMSS-2FF4lQmv064gRlTzmG6k79oDqeGh-2FVzz4vetxundhxJ4fnw1Vx1NmeeAdOrUnb-2BZ0AUu7qjzne5kXzQzigWlbbhjDLj0bhTjLhqfPb1Ky2NJbSLTbD9nd364-2FaQjGdX73ZhNmNzzwML1s-2BoBOdDbXFaDvgmfKuNAg-2FdyfC34Iu9IVnZnBzawYbsPK61ammPfnV2tcFTQqlB99dRMxMXQygIavIvxRed4bBytczUaAfiP9FA3dD6phr8BKZ0nHBEwKI8kY05uJ1oRWAKrVRfgg1IL9nVuw-2FheL-2Bl1RKxElIzrAKjs4WZOR4O-2FjOrvst-2BVEA-3D-3D" target="_blank">MTIS</a>&nbsp;program.I-80, N-50 Ramp, OmahaThis project covers 1.54 miles of I-80 in Sarpy County to repair the bridges over West Giles Road and South Papillion Creek, and to widen westbound I-80 from the bridges to 144th&nbsp;Street (Nebraska Highway 50).&nbsp;The project is substantially complete with minor nighttime work scheduled for early December, weather permitting.The completion of these mark the first projects resulting from the Metro Area Travel Improvement Study (MTIS), a comprehensive, long-range transportation plan for the Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area. MTIS was a collaborative effort conducted by NDOT and the Omaha-Council Bluffs Metropolitan Area Planning Agency (MAPA) between 2014 and 2019.I-80, Dawson County Line to OdessaThis project will rebuild 8.44 miles of I-80 in Buffalo County to replace deteriorated pavement and maintain the transportation system. Work includes reconstruction of the ramps at the Elm Creek-Holdrege interchange at Exit 257. Head-to-head traffic returned to normal on Nov. 3, 2025. Lane closures will remain for pavement marking and remedial work. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2026.I-80, Ogallala to RoscoeThis rebuild of 7.24 miles of I-80 is located in Keith County. The asset preservation project includes the removal and replacement of the pavement and bridge work. A separate project is underway at the Ogallala westbound rest area, which will feature a new building, and expanded parking.The project is approximately 50 percent complete. Eastbound lanes have been completed, and westbound lanes are scheduled to be replaced in 2026. Estimated completion date is late fall 2026.I-80, Pleasant Dale to NW 56th StreetLocated in Lancaster and Seward counties, this modernization project includes pavement and bridge replacement, expanding I-80 to six lanes, median barrier construction, and reconstruction of the on and off ramps at Nebraska Highway 103/NW 154th Street interchange at Exit 388. This project will increase traffic capacity while supporting and maintaining safe and efficient travel. Construction is currently in the second of three phases and is anticipated to be completed in 2027.“I’d like to thank Nebraskans for their patience as we work to improve roadways across the state and the vital I-80 corridor,” NDOT Director Vicki Kramer said. “Tens of thousands of Nebraskans drive through these work zones every day. NDOT urges drivers to continue to be patient, and to drive carefully in work zones so we can all get home safe.”As of Nov. 30, 2025, there have been 108 crashes year to date in these I-80 work zones, and 451 crashes in work zones statewide. In 2024, distracted driving was a factor in at least 2,740 crashes in Nebraska. There have been 1,797 distracted driving crashes as of Nov. 30, 2025, year to date.

NDOT Provides Update on I-80 Projects, Urges Nebraskans to Drive Safely in Work Zones

ALLIANCE, Neb. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is currently undergoing a mapping project in Box Butte County, Nebraska to provide up-to-date flood risk information for the county. At the conclusion of this project, FEMA will issue new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) with updated floodplain boundaries. These updated boundaries could affect flood insurance requirements for property owners.

The Floodplain Mapping Division from the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment will be hosting a public open house in order to give property owners the opportunity to learn about their flood risk and ask floodplain-related questions. The open house is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 18, from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. The open house will be held at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, located at 908 Yellowstone Ave, Alliance, NE, 69301.

For any questions, please contact Michelle York, Administrative Programs Officer at Floodplain Management Division, at (402) 471-2186.

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764784646776.png" alt="Box Butte County Floodplain Mapping Project Public Open House Flyer" />
 <figcaption>Box Butte County Floodplain Mapping Project Public Open House Flyer</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is currently undergoing a mapping project in Box Butte County, Nebraska to provide up-to-date flood risk information for the county. At the conclusion of this project, FEMA will issue new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) with updated floodplain boundaries. These updated boundaries could affect flood insurance requirements for property owners.The Floodplain Mapping Division from the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment will be hosting a public open house in order to give property owners the opportunity to learn about their flood risk and ask floodplain-related questions. The open house is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 18, from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. The open house will be held at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, located at 908 Yellowstone Ave, Alliance, NE, 69301.For any questions, please contact Michelle York, Administrative Programs Officer at Floodplain Management Division, at (402) 471-2186.

New Flood Insurance Rate Maps in Box Butte County

ALLIANCE, Neb. – The Landfill will be closed from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 3, for an all-employee luncheon.

For any questions, please contact Clint Fankhauser, Landfill Foreman, at (308) 762-2705.

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571965688810.png" alt="City of Alliance" />
 <figcaption>City of Alliance</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – The Landfill will be closed from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 3, for an all-employee luncheon.For any questions, please contact Clint Fankhauser, Landfill Foreman, at (308) 762-2705.

Landfill Temporarily Closed in Alliance

ALLIANCE, Neb. – The search is on at Alliance Public Library! Preschool through second grade can Search for Snoopy during Library hours through Dec. 24, with one prize per day and one prize per child.

Grades 3-12 can join the Gingerbread Journey by picking up a Scavenger Hunt list at the circulation desk, collecting items from the list, then returning to the circulation desk with all items for their prize, with one prize per youth. No checkout of items is needed for this event, which also continues through Dec. 24, during Library hours.

For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian, at 762-1387.

By Alliance Public Library<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764784381217.jpeg" alt="Search for Snoopy" />
 <figcaption>Search for Snoopy</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – The search is on at Alliance Public Library! Preschool through second grade can Search for Snoopy during Library hours through Dec. 24, with one prize per day and one prize per child.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764784397760.jpeg" alt="Gingerbread Journey" />
 <figcaption>Gingerbread Journey</figcaption>
 </figure>Grades 3-12 can join the Gingerbread Journey by picking up a Scavenger Hunt list at the circulation desk, collecting items from the list, then returning to the circulation desk with all items for their prize, with one prize per youth. No checkout of items is needed for this event, which also continues through Dec. 24, during Library hours.For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian, at 762-1387.

Search for Snoopy and Gingerbread Journey at Alliance Public Library

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Spicy Kitties

UNITED WAY RADIOTHON: Community Table

UNITED WAY RADIOTHON: Bulldog Backpack Program

UNITED WAY RADIOTHON: American Red Cross

UNITED WAY RADIOTHON: East Point Horspice

UNITED WAY RADIOTHON: The Doves Program

Box Butte County Commissioner's Meeting Agenda, Dec. 3

ALLIANCE, Neb. – Alliance Public Library invites you to Digital Detox Friday events, festive intergenerational activities to inspire and engage your creative mind!

Join in Holiday Crafts with Keep Alliance Beautiful on Friday, Dec. 5 for preschool and over, with families welcome to create together from 10-11 a.m. in the APL Community Room. All supplies are provided, including nature and recycled materials.

Celebrate Christmas Around the World, featuring fun facts about ways others celebrate the holidays on Friday, Dec. 12 from 10-11:30 a.m. in the APL Community Room. This intergenerational event for preschool and over, will also include a Show &amp; Tell time. Bring along a special treasure from your own holiday collection to share about. Plus enjoy books from our library collection and a Power Point presentation. If you have special items to share in our display, you can bring them to the library before Dec. 12 or bring to share at the event.

For more information, please contact Steph Hamilton, Adult Services Librarian or Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

By Alliance Public Library<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764693071793.jpeg" alt="Holiday Crafts" />
 <figcaption>Holiday Crafts</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – Alliance Public Library invites you to Digital Detox Friday events, festive intergenerational activities to inspire and engage your creative mind!Join in Holiday Crafts with Keep Alliance Beautiful on Friday, Dec. 5 for preschool and over, with families welcome to create together from 10-11 a.m. in the APL Community Room. All supplies are provided, including nature and recycled materials.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764693040279.jpeg" alt="Christmas Around the World" />
 <figcaption>Christmas Around the World</figcaption>
 </figure>Celebrate Christmas Around the World, featuring fun facts about ways others celebrate the holidays on Friday, Dec. 12 from 10-11:30 a.m. in the APL Community Room. This intergenerational event for preschool and over, will also include a Show &amp; Tell time. Bring along a special treasure from your own holiday collection to share about. Plus enjoy books from our library collection and a Power Point presentation. If you have special items to share in our display, you can bring them to the library before Dec. 12 or bring to share at the event.For more information, please contact Steph Hamilton, Adult Services Librarian or Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

December Digital Detox Fridays at Alliance Public Library

McCOOK, Neb.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating an incident in which a McCook resident died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot while speaking on the phone with McCook police officers.

Monday afternoon, the McCook Police Department received a 911 call from a McCook resident reporting that he was considering self-harm. Officers responded to the location in the 600 block of West F Street.

Officers contacted the person via phone and spoke for several minutes. During the phone call, officers heard a gunshot inside the home. Officers entered the home and found the man with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. They attempted life-saving measures, but the man was pronounced deceased at the scene. There was nobody else in the house at the time of the incident.

No officers discharged their weapons during this incident. Because the death occurred during contact with law enforcement officers, the Red Willow County Attorney has requested the Nebraska State Patrol conduct the grand jury investigation.

School had already been dismissed at McCook High School, but because of the proximity to the scene, the school went into secure status during after-school practices and activities.

By Nebraska State Patrol<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682086647868.png" alt="New headquarters of the Nebraska State Patrol. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>New headquarters of the Nebraska State Patrol. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>McCOOK, Neb.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating an incident in which a McCook resident died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot while speaking on the phone with McCook police officers.Monday afternoon, the McCook Police Department received a 911 call from a McCook resident reporting that he was considering self-harm. Officers responded to the location in the 600 block of West F Street.Officers contacted the person via phone and spoke for several minutes. During the phone call, officers heard a gunshot inside the home. Officers entered the home and found the man with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. They attempted life-saving measures, but the man was pronounced deceased at the scene. There was nobody else in the house at the time of the incident.No officers discharged their weapons during this incident. Because the death occurred during contact with law enforcement officers, the Red Willow County Attorney has requested the Nebraska State Patrol conduct the grand jury investigation.School had already been dismissed at McCook High School, but because of the proximity to the scene, the school went into secure status during after-school practices and activities.

NSP Investigating Apparent Suicide in McCook

By The National Purple Heart Honor Mission

Scottsbluff Native and Lincoln Army Veteran Chosen as Nebraska’s Representative for the 2026 Purple Heart Patriot Project

NEWBURGH, NY – A local Purple Heart recipient has been chosen to be one of the nation’s 2026 Purple Heart Patriot Project honorees. U.S. Army Sergeant (SGT) Marty Ramirez will represent his fellow Purple Heart heroes as Nebraska’s representative at the multi-day tribute to the courage and sacrifice of America’s combat wounded. The Purple Heart Patriot Project is a program of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.purpleheartmission.org/" target="_blank">National Purple Heart Honor Mission</a>.&nbsp;

Selected from among hundreds of nominees and deserving candidates for their courage and service, both in combat and in their communities, this annual all-expenses paid ‘Honor Flight’-style salute will bring together Purple Heart recipients from across conflicts and generations. The multi-day Patriot Project Mission, scheduled for April 27 – May 1, 2026, will feature visits to historic sites, including the U.S. Military Academy at West Point; a private tour of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor; time at historic Washington’s Headquarters, where the Badge of Military Merit originated in 1782; and the 9/11 Memorial. Other special tribute events are also being planned.

“Marty and his fellow Patriot Project honorees represent the best of the best our country has to offer,” said Jeremy McVey, Chairman of the National Purple Heart Honor Mission.&nbsp;“These honorees represent a true cross-section of America and the diversity of our combat wounded through the decades. They answered the nation’s call and then kept on serving. This is our opportunity to say ‘thank you’ on behalf of a grateful nation, especially for our Vietnam veterans, the Patriot Project provides proper homecoming they never received.”

“These Patriot Project missions recognize the sacrifices made by our Purple Heart recipients and honor those who never made it home. They provide an invaluable opportunity for these heroes to bond with other combat wounded to help with healing, understanding and of course, know that this nation will never forget their sacrifice,” said National Purple Heart Honor Mission Executive Director Colonel Russell O. Vernon (Ret). “We received hundreds of nominations from across the country, and we look forward to honoring Marty for his courage and service, both during combat operations and in the years since returning home.”

This year’s Patriot Project honorees include men and women from all branches of military service, who sacrificed for America and then went on to be leaders in their communities and professions. &nbsp;

Asked what his service meant to him, SGT Ramirez said, “I grew up feeling and knowing that it was an honor to serve in the military. As a combat soldier, I felt that we were going to fight for democracy.”

Ramirez entered the Army on Oct. 20, 1967, and served with the 199th Light Infantry Brigade, A-4/12, during the 1968 Tet Offensive in Vietnam. In February 1969, with just ten days remaining in his year-long tour, his unit came under heavy enemy attack while he was guarding ammunition beneath a bridge. As mortar and rocket-propelled grenade rounds struck the area, Ramirez raced to reach the top of the bridge but was blown off and fell nearly 50 feet, suffering the combat wounds for which he received the Purple Heart. Previously, Marty came close to death on 8 different occasions.

Along with his Purple Heart, SGT Ramirez earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Army Commendation Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars.

Married and the father of seven children, SGT. Ramirez built an extraordinary post-military career rooted in service, leadership and community advocacy. He earned his Ph.D. and became a counseling psychologist, retiring after a distinguished professional life dedicated to helping others. A lifelong Chicano community activist, he has been deeply involved in educational and cultural advocacy and played a key role in helping create a Chicano/Mexican Veterans Monument in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He cites his academic achievements, his children all earning college degrees and his decades of community leadership as among his most meaningful accomplishments.

The Purple Heart Patriot Project provides an all-expenses paid trip to Purple Heart recipients from across the country to visit the museum dedicated as a tribute to their service and other historic sites connected with the Purple Heart. Located just north of West Point, New York, the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor is housed near the site where General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit in 1782 during the Revolutionary War. The Badge, a purple cloth cut in the shape of a heart, was the forerunner of today’s Purple Heart medal. These powerful visits provide a unique opportunity for our Purple Heart veterans to connect with other recipients and experience the appreciation of a grateful nation committed to ensuring their courage and sacrifice is remembered for generations to come. Project Missions are supported by individual, foundation, and corporate donations.

In addition to creation of the museum, the National Purple Heart Honor Mission was instrumental in the creation of the Purple Heart Forever stamp, and the organization behind the U.S. Mint’s official Purple Heart Commemorative Coin series, which was issued by the United States Mint in 2022. Today, the organization is developing the National Purple Heart Traveling Tribute and Education Center, which will tour the country bringing the stories of our heroes’ service and sacrifice to communities across the nation.&nbsp;

Those wishing to learn more about the National Purple Heart Honor Mission or donate to sponsor the trip for our Purple Heart heroes should visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.purpleheartmission.org/" target="_blank">www.PurpleHeartMission.org</a>.

By The National Purple Heart Honor Mission<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764692796997.png" alt="Maurice Ramirez (NE) - Service Photo" />
 <figcaption>Maurice Ramirez (NE) - Service Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Scottsbluff Native and Lincoln Army Veteran Chosen as Nebraska’s Representative for the 2026 Purple Heart Patriot ProjectNEWBURGH, NY – A local Purple Heart recipient has been chosen to be one of the nation’s 2026 Purple Heart Patriot Project honorees. U.S. Army Sergeant (SGT) Marty Ramirez will represent his fellow Purple Heart heroes as Nebraska’s representative at the multi-day tribute to the courage and sacrifice of America’s combat wounded. The Purple Heart Patriot Project is a program of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.purpleheartmission.org/" target="_blank">National Purple Heart Honor Mission</a>.&nbsp;Selected from among hundreds of nominees and deserving candidates for their courage and service, both in combat and in their communities, this annual all-expenses paid ‘Honor Flight’-style salute will bring together Purple Heart recipients from across conflicts and generations. The multi-day Patriot Project Mission, scheduled for April 27 – May 1, 2026, will feature visits to historic sites, including the U.S. Military Academy at West Point; a private tour of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor; time at historic Washington’s Headquarters, where the Badge of Military Merit originated in 1782; and the 9/11 Memorial. Other special tribute events are also being planned.“Marty and his fellow Patriot Project honorees represent the best of the best our country has to offer,” said Jeremy McVey, Chairman of the National Purple Heart Honor Mission.&nbsp;“These honorees represent a true cross-section of America and the diversity of our combat wounded through the decades. They answered the nation’s call and then kept on serving. This is our opportunity to say ‘thank you’ on behalf of a grateful nation, especially for our Vietnam veterans, the Patriot Project provides proper homecoming they never received.”“These Patriot Project missions recognize the sacrifices made by our Purple Heart recipients and honor those who never made it home. They provide an invaluable opportunity for these heroes to bond with other combat wounded to help with healing, understanding and of course, know that this nation will never forget their sacrifice,” said National Purple Heart Honor Mission Executive Director Colonel Russell O. Vernon (Ret). “We received hundreds of nominations from across the country, and we look forward to honoring Marty for his courage and service, both during combat operations and in the years since returning home.”This year’s Patriot Project honorees include men and women from all branches of military service, who sacrificed for America and then went on to be leaders in their communities and professions. &nbsp;Asked what his service meant to him, SGT Ramirez said, “I grew up feeling and knowing that it was an honor to serve in the military. As a combat soldier, I felt that we were going to fight for democracy.”Ramirez entered the Army on Oct. 20, 1967, and served with the 199th Light Infantry Brigade, A-4/12, during the 1968 Tet Offensive in Vietnam. In February 1969, with just ten days remaining in his year-long tour, his unit came under heavy enemy attack while he was guarding ammunition beneath a bridge. As mortar and rocket-propelled grenade rounds struck the area, Ramirez raced to reach the top of the bridge but was blown off and fell nearly 50 feet, suffering the combat wounds for which he received the Purple Heart. Previously, Marty came close to death on 8 different occasions.Along with his Purple Heart, SGT Ramirez earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Army Commendation Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars.Married and the father of seven children, SGT. Ramirez built an extraordinary post-military career rooted in service, leadership and community advocacy. He earned his Ph.D. and became a counseling psychologist, retiring after a distinguished professional life dedicated to helping others. A lifelong Chicano community activist, he has been deeply involved in educational and cultural advocacy and played a key role in helping create a Chicano/Mexican Veterans Monument in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He cites his academic achievements, his children all earning college degrees and his decades of community leadership as among his most meaningful accomplishments.The Purple Heart Patriot Project provides an all-expenses paid trip to Purple Heart recipients from across the country to visit the museum dedicated as a tribute to their service and other historic sites connected with the Purple Heart. Located just north of West Point, New York, the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor is housed near the site where General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit in 1782 during the Revolutionary War. The Badge, a purple cloth cut in the shape of a heart, was the forerunner of today’s Purple Heart medal. These powerful visits provide a unique opportunity for our Purple Heart veterans to connect with other recipients and experience the appreciation of a grateful nation committed to ensuring their courage and sacrifice is remembered for generations to come. Project Missions are supported by individual, foundation, and corporate donations.In addition to creation of the museum, the National Purple Heart Honor Mission was instrumental in the creation of the Purple Heart Forever stamp, and the organization behind the U.S. Mint’s official Purple Heart Commemorative Coin series, which was issued by the United States Mint in 2022. Today, the organization is developing the National Purple Heart Traveling Tribute and Education Center, which will tour the country bringing the stories of our heroes’ service and sacrifice to communities across the nation.&nbsp;Those wishing to learn more about the National Purple Heart Honor Mission or donate to sponsor the trip for our Purple Heart heroes should visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.purpleheartmission.org/" target="_blank">www.PurpleHeartMission.org</a>.

Local Purple Heart Recipient Dr. Marty Ramirez To Be Honored During National Tribute Event

CHADRON, Neb. — Chadron State College Associate Professor Julian Berrian presented his paper, Cheating the Grave: Representations of Death Transcendence in the Movie Sinners, during the virtual Annual Northeast Popular Culture Association conference in October, marking his second appearance at the annual conference.

Berrian spoke on a panel titled Belief at the Brink: Faith, Death and Decay in Popular Culture. His talk examined how filmmaker Ryan Coogler’s film Sinners uses characters, music, and visual structure to illustrate psychiatrist Robert Jay Lifton’s five symbolic modes of death transcendence: biological, theological, creative, natural and experiential.

Set in a Black music venue in Prohibition-era Mississippi, the film follows twin brothers Elijah and Elias, blues guitarist Sammie Moore, and the vampire-like outsider Remmick. Berrian’s analysis drew on scene and character examinations, including a musical sequence he described as the film’s visual centerpiece. He said the film demonstrates how one narrative can creatively express multiple human attempts to symbolically defy death.

Berrian’s abstract outlined his presentation’s key arguments and framed the film as a study in how people seek meaning and legacy in the face of mortality. During the discussion following his presentation, Berrian said questions reflected the core theme that Coogler’s characters embody varied and sometimes conflicting pathways toward symbolic transcendence, and how those pursuits resonate across the human experience.

Berrian joined the CSC faculty in 2022 and teaches Advanced Video Production (CA 445), Broadcast Production (CA 345), Video Production (CA 245), Audio Production (CA 215), Public Speaking (CA 155), and Fundamentals of Oral Communication (CA 125). He earned a Master of Fine Arts from Temple University and a bachelor’s from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

By CSC College Relations<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764692540165.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College Associate Professor Julian Berrian presented his paper, Cheating the Grave: Representations of Death Transcendence in the Movie Sinners, during the virtual Annual Northeast Popular Culture Association conference in October 2025, marking his second appearance at the annual conference. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College Associate Professor Julian Berrian presented his paper, Cheating the Grave: Representations of Death Transcendence in the Movie Sinners, during the virtual Annual Northeast Popular Culture Association conference in October 2025, marking his second appearance at the annual conference. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON, Neb. — Chadron State College Associate Professor Julian Berrian presented his paper, Cheating the Grave: Representations of Death Transcendence in the Movie Sinners, during the virtual Annual Northeast Popular Culture Association conference in October, marking his second appearance at the annual conference.Berrian spoke on a panel titled Belief at the Brink: Faith, Death and Decay in Popular Culture. His talk examined how filmmaker Ryan Coogler’s film Sinners uses characters, music, and visual structure to illustrate psychiatrist Robert Jay Lifton’s five symbolic modes of death transcendence: biological, theological, creative, natural and experiential.Set in a Black music venue in Prohibition-era Mississippi, the film follows twin brothers Elijah and Elias, blues guitarist Sammie Moore, and the vampire-like outsider Remmick. Berrian’s analysis drew on scene and character examinations, including a musical sequence he described as the film’s visual centerpiece. He said the film demonstrates how one narrative can creatively express multiple human attempts to symbolically defy death.Berrian’s abstract outlined his presentation’s key arguments and framed the film as a study in how people seek meaning and legacy in the face of mortality. During the discussion following his presentation, Berrian said questions reflected the core theme that Coogler’s characters embody varied and sometimes conflicting pathways toward symbolic transcendence, and how those pursuits resonate across the human experience.Berrian joined the CSC faculty in 2022 and teaches Advanced Video Production (CA 445), Broadcast Production (CA 345), Video Production (CA 245), Audio Production (CA 215), Public Speaking (CA 155), and Fundamentals of Oral Communication (CA 125). He earned a Master of Fine Arts from Temple University and a bachelor’s from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Berrian Presents to Virtual Popular Culture Conference

UNITED WAY RADIOTHON: Reve Fries

Lawson told witness “If you talk, it’s your funeral”

U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Iowa - December 1, 2025

Two men with lengthy criminal histories were convicted by a jury on November 25, 2025, after a 11-day trial in federal court in Sioux City.

Floyd Clifford Coates, Jr., aka Cliff Coates, age 44, from St. Francis, Kansas, was convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, Possession of Ammunition by a Felon and Drug User, Conspiracy to Conceal Objects with the Intent to Impair Their Availability for an Official Proceeding, and Concealing Objects with the Intent to Impair their Availability for an Official Proceeding. Coates was acquitted of other charges related to threats, and obstruction of justice.&nbsp;

Dennis Lawson, age 65, from Whiting, Iowa, was convicted of Using Threat of Physical Force Against Another with the Intent to Hinder, Delay, or Prevent the Communication to a Law Enforcement Officer and Judge of the United States of Information Relating to the Commission and Possible Commission of a Federal Offense. Lawson was acquitted of other charges relating to drugs, threats and obstruction.&nbsp;

The verdict was returned following about 2 hours of jury deliberations.

The evidence at trial showed that in Spring 2019, Coates was a member of a drug trafficking organization that funneled pounds of methamphetamine from Colorado to Strubel, Iowa, among other places, for redistribution, and that Coates possessed firearms to protect his illegal drug operation. Evidence also showed that on Easter weekend 2019, Coates had arranged a drug run to Kansas City, Missouri.

To execute the Easter weekend drug run, Coates had convinced an Iowa woman to drive from Sioux City, Iowa; meet him in Blair, Nebraska; and drive him to Kansas City, Missouri, and back. Coates decided to travel to Blair from Trenton, Nebraska, with another woman, 18-year-old Sunny Sramek. Coates and Sramek left Trenton in his wife’s white Ford Explorer to go on the trip. There is no evidence Ms. Sramek knew Coates was going to Kansas City; in fact, she told friends and family that she was going to be on a day trip to Omaha.&nbsp;

The pair made it to Blair, where Coates went into a home, but Ms. Sramek did not. Coates’s driver arrived from Sioux City and Coates said nothing of Ms. Sramek to the driver. As the driver and Coates left the home, the driver saw Ms. Sramek’s motionless body. The driver testified it looked as if Ms. Sramek had overdosed, and Coates said he had provided her methamphetamine. Coates cancelled his drug run to Kansas City and told his driver to go to the home of his brother-in-law Dennis Lawson near Whiting, Iowa, on the banks of the Missouri River. The driver testified that after they arrived at Lawson’s residence Lawson and Coates disappeared for a time, when they returned, Ms. Sramek’s body was gone. The driver also testified that she and Coates cleaned out the car, and that Lawson threatened her saying if she told anyone, “it would be her funeral.”

Later, Coates told confidants that Ms. Sramek had overdosed. He told other friends a more violent story. In both versions, however, he told people he had thrown Ms. Sramek’s body into the Missouri River to conceal evidence of his crimes. Coates was confident his efforts at concealing Ms. Sramek’s body would insulate him from accountability. He told one person “no body, no case” and asked another “you can’t get charged with murder if there is no body, can you?”

Coates’s confidence was misplaced. Law enforcement gathered a significant amount of physical evidence tying Coates to Ms. Sramek’s disappearance. Forensic analysis indicated Ms. Sramek’s DNA and a significant amount of blood were found in the white Ford Explorer. The forensic findings combined with other evidence provided the proof the jury used to convict Coates and Lawson.&nbsp;

“Sunny Sramek went missing more than six years ago,” said United States Attorney Leif Olson. “But the investigators’ dedication kept her case from going cold. Thanks to them, these two criminals now face judgment for Sunny’s disappearance. Those who believe they can escape justice through threats, cover-ups, or the passage of time will discover they are mistaken.”

“The convictions of Coates and Lawson represent years of tireless, unwavering efforts by a dedicated team of FBI personnel who never stopped looking for Sunny Sramek,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. “Despite the defendants’ best efforts to conceal involvement in her disappearance, the FBI persisted in our mission to hold these subjects accountable for their actions. We hope these convictions bring some measure of solace to Sunny’s family. The FBI will always use every tool and technique in our arsenal to seek justice for the missing and attempts to hinder those efforts will be aggressively investigated.”

Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Coates and Lawson remain in custody of the United States Marshal.

Coates faces a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment and five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.

Lawson faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.

&nbsp;The case was investigated by Hitchcock County, Nebraska, Sheriff’s Office; the Nebraska State Patrol; the Iowa Department of Public Safety—Division of Criminal Investigation; the Plymouth County, Iowa, Sheriff’s Office; the O’Brien County, Iowa, Sheriff’s Office; the Iowa Department of Natural Resources; the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner; the Goodland, Kansas, Police Department; and the&nbsp;<a></a>United States Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.&nbsp;

For Immediate Release<h2>Lawson told witness “If you talk, it’s your funeral”</h2>U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Iowa - December 1, 2025<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764644350839.jpeg" alt="Sunny Sramek, of Trenton, Ne, has been missing since April 20 of 2019 when she was 18 years-old. Two men linked to the disappearance were found guilty on drug, gun and obstruction-related charges December 1, 2025. (Find Sunny Sramek Facebook Page)" />
 <figcaption>Sunny Sramek, of Trenton, Ne, has been missing since April 20 of 2019 when she was 18 years-old. Two men linked to the disappearance were found guilty on drug, gun and obstruction-related charges December 1, 2025. (Find Sunny Sramek Facebook Page)</figcaption>
 </figure>Two men with lengthy criminal histories were convicted by a jury on November 25, 2025, after a 11-day trial in federal court in Sioux City.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764644790644.png" alt="Coates (Woodbury County Sheriff's Office)" />
 <figcaption>Coates (Woodbury County Sheriff's Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>Floyd Clifford Coates, Jr., aka Cliff Coates, age 44, from St. Francis, Kansas, was convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, Possession of Ammunition by a Felon and Drug User, Conspiracy to Conceal Objects with the Intent to Impair Their Availability for an Official Proceeding, and Concealing Objects with the Intent to Impair their Availability for an Official Proceeding. Coates was acquitted of other charges related to threats, and obstruction of justice.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764645071823.png" alt="Lawson (Woodbury County Sheriff's Office)" />
 <figcaption>Lawson (Woodbury County Sheriff's Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>Dennis Lawson, age 65, from Whiting, Iowa, was convicted of Using Threat of Physical Force Against Another with the Intent to Hinder, Delay, or Prevent the Communication to a Law Enforcement Officer and Judge of the United States of Information Relating to the Commission and Possible Commission of a Federal Offense. Lawson was acquitted of other charges relating to drugs, threats and obstruction.&nbsp;The verdict was returned following about 2 hours of jury deliberations.The evidence at trial showed that in Spring 2019, Coates was a member of a drug trafficking organization that funneled pounds of methamphetamine from Colorado to Strubel, Iowa, among other places, for redistribution, and that Coates possessed firearms to protect his illegal drug operation. Evidence also showed that on Easter weekend 2019, Coates had arranged a drug run to Kansas City, Missouri.To execute the Easter weekend drug run, Coates had convinced an Iowa woman to drive from Sioux City, Iowa; meet him in Blair, Nebraska; and drive him to Kansas City, Missouri, and back. Coates decided to travel to Blair from Trenton, Nebraska, with another woman, 18-year-old Sunny Sramek. Coates and Sramek left Trenton in his wife’s white Ford Explorer to go on the trip. There is no evidence Ms. Sramek knew Coates was going to Kansas City; in fact, she told friends and family that she was going to be on a day trip to Omaha.&nbsp;The pair made it to Blair, where Coates went into a home, but Ms. Sramek did not. Coates’s driver arrived from Sioux City and Coates said nothing of Ms. Sramek to the driver. As the driver and Coates left the home, the driver saw Ms. Sramek’s motionless body. The driver testified it looked as if Ms. Sramek had overdosed, and Coates said he had provided her methamphetamine. Coates cancelled his drug run to Kansas City and told his driver to go to the home of his brother-in-law Dennis Lawson near Whiting, Iowa, on the banks of the Missouri River. The driver testified that after they arrived at Lawson’s residence Lawson and Coates disappeared for a time, when they returned, Ms. Sramek’s body was gone. The driver also testified that she and Coates cleaned out the car, and that Lawson threatened her saying if she told anyone, “it would be her funeral.”Later, Coates told confidants that Ms. Sramek had overdosed. He told other friends a more violent story. In both versions, however, he told people he had thrown Ms. Sramek’s body into the Missouri River to conceal evidence of his crimes. Coates was confident his efforts at concealing Ms. Sramek’s body would insulate him from accountability. He told one person “no body, no case” and asked another “you can’t get charged with murder if there is no body, can you?”Coates’s confidence was misplaced. Law enforcement gathered a significant amount of physical evidence tying Coates to Ms. Sramek’s disappearance. Forensic analysis indicated Ms. Sramek’s DNA and a significant amount of blood were found in the white Ford Explorer. The forensic findings combined with other evidence provided the proof the jury used to convict Coates and Lawson.&nbsp;“Sunny Sramek went missing more than six years ago,” said United States Attorney Leif Olson. “But the investigators’ dedication kept her case from going cold. Thanks to them, these two criminals now face judgment for Sunny’s disappearance. Those who believe they can escape justice through threats, cover-ups, or the passage of time will discover they are mistaken.”“The convictions of Coates and Lawson represent years of tireless, unwavering efforts by a dedicated team of FBI personnel who never stopped looking for Sunny Sramek,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. “Despite the defendants’ best efforts to conceal involvement in her disappearance, the FBI persisted in our mission to hold these subjects accountable for their actions. We hope these convictions bring some measure of solace to Sunny’s family. The FBI will always use every tool and technique in our arsenal to seek justice for the missing and attempts to hinder those efforts will be aggressively investigated.”Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Coates and Lawson remain in custody of the United States Marshal.Coates faces a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment and five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.Lawson faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.&nbsp;The case was investigated by Hitchcock County, Nebraska, Sheriff’s Office; the Nebraska State Patrol; the Iowa Department of Public Safety—Division of Criminal Investigation; the Plymouth County, Iowa, Sheriff’s Office; the O’Brien County, Iowa, Sheriff’s Office; the Iowa Department of Natural Resources; the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner; the Goodland, Kansas, Police Department; and the&nbsp;<a></a>United States Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.&nbsp;

Men Linked to the Disappearance of an 18-Year-Old Nebraska Woman Found Guilty of Drug, Gun, and Obstruction-Related Charges

-Dayde Michael Belknap and Kristen Ann Romick

-Terry Wayne Monroe Jr. and Brandon Lee Grossnickle

-Guillermo Gonzalez Jr. and Jessica Estelle Rodriguez

-Trace Patrick McCuen and Sophie Lynn Bricker

Marriages:&nbsp;-Dayde Michael Belknap and Kristen Ann Romick-Terry Wayne Monroe Jr. and Brandon Lee Grossnickle-Guillermo Gonzalez Jr. and Jessica Estelle Rodriguez-Trace Patrick McCuen and Sophie Lynn BrickerDivorces:-Tyrel Hoatson and Chelsea Hoatson-Barbara Beck and Joshua Beck