<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575903672856.jpeg"> The Alliance Community Choir will present their annual Christmas Concert, “The Sounds of Christmas” on Sunday, December 15 at 2:00 p.m. at the Alliance United Methodist Church and again on Wednesday, December 18 at 7:00 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church.&nbsp; The performance features the Alliance Community Choir with Gordon Hoff as Narrator, plus Peals of Joy, the United Methodist Church handbell choir, Alliance High School Senior Aubrey Garrett performing her original Christmas song,&nbsp;and Alliance Musician and Singer Robbie Cerv will perform “Silent Night” accompanied by Jim Settle on classical guitar. The Choir is directed by Becky Mitchell and accompanied by Cynthia Horn on piano with Cheryl Lubash and Aiden Zaro adding percussion.&nbsp;Peals of Joy is directed by Merrily DeBusk.&nbsp;There is no charge to attend, but there will be a free-will offering.

Alliance Community Choir too present Christmas Concert

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1572272230052.jpeg"> The Chadron Public Schools Board of Education announced Friday, they have voted to negotiate with Mrs. Ginger Meyer for the position of Superintendent of Schools. Mrs. Meyer has been Superindentent at Scribner-Snyder Community Schools since 2011. The Board, along School Administrators, Staff and Community Members all met with Mrs. Meyer through the interview process. She was also given a tour of the facilities. The Board of Education will ratify Mrs. Meyer's contract at an upcoming meeting. The Board thanks all who were involved for their input, and they welcome Mrs. Meyer her husband Deron and their 2 children, Nia and Tobin, to the Chadron community and School District.

Chadron Public Schools set to hire new Superintendent

By Kerri RemppNorthwest Nebraska Tourism Director The murder of an Army scout, the Cheyenne’s run through the buttes after fleeing Fort Robinson, and railroad camps and tent cities that boomed with the coming of the railroad all share one thing: geography.&nbsp;Northwest Nebraska is rich in history; the story of the West unfolds in Dawes and Sioux counties, from Native American heritage to the era of fur-traders and homesteaders. Nearly three dozen historical markers serve provide historical context for the people and places that shaped Northwest Nebraska.&nbsp;Before the West was carved up by homesteaders and the free range fenced, Native American tribes walked the land of Northwest Nebraska and during the fur-trade era, many conducted business with the traders. James Bordeaux opened his Indian trading house in the mid-1840s near what is today the Museum of the Fur Trade. Bordeaux’s trading house was once attached by Crow warriors, who were eventually driven off by friendly Sioux Indians. He traded the Indians’ buffalo robes, furs and ponies for guns, powder, blankets and whiskey for nearly three decades in Northwest Nebraska.&nbsp; <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576259067110.jpeg"> But as westward expansion surged, disputes over land erupted. In September 1875, the Allison Commission met with thousands of Sioux Indians under a lone cottonwood tree near present-day Whitney. The commission members hoped to convince the Native Americans to part with the Black Hills, but negotiations failed. While the Council Tree or Treaty Tree died decades ago, its general location is still marked along Old Highway 20.The story of the Native American people continued in Northwest Nebraska as more settlers arrived, the military established outposts and tribes were assigned to dedicated “agencies,” where they were to live. A few years after the Allison Commission failed in its negotiations, a band of Cheyenne, led by Dull Knife, fled a reservation in Oklahoma, seeking to return to their homeland in Wyoming and Montana. Nearly 150 of the Cheyenne were captured and imprisoned at Fort Robinson, refusing to return to Oklahoma. In January 1879, several of the younger Cheyenne Warriors used smuggled weapons and broke out of the barracks, fighting a running battle across the Fort’s parade ground, eventually reaching the White River, scaling the nearby cliffs and escaping. The Cheyenne evaded troops for 12 days but were discovered hiding along Antelope Creek Jan. 22. The outbreak resulted in the deaths of 64 Cheyenne and 11 soldiers.&nbsp;Other Native Americans worked with the military, such as Baptiste “Little Bat” Garnier, who served as Chief of the Fort Robinson Scouts. Garnier’s father was French-Canadian, but he was raised among his mother’s Sioux people, earning a reputation as one of the best interpreters and big game hunters in the Rocky Mountain Region of the Nebraska Territory, according to “Fifty Years on the Old Frontier” by James Cook. Little Bat took part in General George Crook’s Black Hills Expedition, worked as a scout with Col. Merritt’s 5th Cavalry and was acting as a military interpreter during Wounded Knee when fighting broke out.&nbsp; ﻿<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576259201666.jpeg"> He was shot and killed Dec. 16, 1900, in a Crawford saloon by local bartender James Haguewood. After being shot, Little Bat stumbled into the street and was taken into a nearby building, where he died, Cook wrote in his book. His life and death are paid tribute with a plaque on the side of what is today known as the Corner Bar, where the fatal shot was fired. Haguewood was acquitted on a plea of self-defense.Little Bat’s death and interment records read that he was “brutally shot while wholly unarmed and without cause or justification.”&nbsp;The City of Crawford itself is recognized with a historical marker, having its start as a tent city in 1886. Named after a soldier at Fort Robinson, the town served as an important supply depot for the military outpost, and a center of entertainment for the soldiers stationed there. The historical marker telling the city’s story is located at the site of the Visitor’s Center at the junction of Highways 2/71 and 20.&nbsp;Crawford isn’t alone in its historic status; the village of Harrison is also recognized with an official state marker. Originally established as a railroad camp in 1884, the town was initially named Summit thanks to its elevation of 4,876 feet. It remains the highest town in the state today.&nbsp;Just west of Harrison was the Coffee Siding. Cattle ranching was king in Northwest Nebraska, and one of the largest cattle barons, Charles Coffee, constructed a railroad siding between Harrison and Lusk in order to ship cattle to Chicago and avoid Wyoming’s higher freight charges. Agriculture remains a key industry in Northwest Nebraska but trucks have taken over what was once the railroad’s domain.&nbsp;The complete list of Northwest Nebraska’s historical markers can be found at <a href="http://discovernwnebraska.com/museums/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); background-color: transparent;">http://discovernwnebraska.com/museums/</a>.

Rich NWN history makes a perfect road trip

Panhandle Post, and all Post websites in communities served by Eagle Communications, experienced a multi-day outage this week. The Eagle tech team worked quickly to restore the sites, which are functional as of this morning. During the outage we have heard via phone call, email and Facebook message from Post visitors unable to use the site. We appreciate all who read and enjoy the Post as a source for local and state news, sports stories, streaming audio of KCOW, Double Q Country and B94.7; and other services like obituaries and Open Mic listings, We are glad to be back serving the panhandle!

Panhandle Post website back after technical issues

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a regular meeting of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Chadron, Nebraska, will be held at 6:00 o’clock P.M. on Monday, December 16, 2019 in the City Hall Council Chambers at 234 Main Street, Chadron, Nebraska, which meeting will be open to the public.&nbsp; The Mayor and Council reserve the right to adjourn into executive session pursuant to Section 84-1410 of the Nebraska Revised Statutes. An agenda for such meeting kept continuously current is available for public inspection at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall during normal business hours; provided, the City Council may modify the agenda at the meeting if it determines that an emergency so requires.&nbsp; Individuals requiring physical or sensory accommodations who desire to attend the meeting or participate, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall at 234 Main Street no later than 4:00 o’clock P.M. on the Friday preceding the meeting. 	Donna J. Rust	City Clerk

Notice for Chadron council meeting released

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576255681626.jpeg"> Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD) recently partnered with area students to spread theword on the dangers of JUULing. The campaign featured high school athletes from around theregion who committed to saying no to the harmful effects of JUULing. One scholarshiprecipient was selected based on a social media campaign and we are excited to announce thewinner of a $250 scholarship is Alliance High School Senior, Joel Baker. Joel is the son of Michael and Valerie Baker of Alliance PPHD wants to remind everyone to not let the ads from JUUL fool you - JUUL&amp;#39;s flavored e-cigarettes can deliver the same amount of nicotine as 20 cigarettes. Last year, teen e-cigaretteuse spiked to 78%. Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can harmbrain development. Some e-cigarettes look like regular tobacco products, such as cigarettes. But in recent years, e-cigarettes look like other things, including USB flash drives, pens, and other everyday items.JUUL is one of the most common e-cigarettes shaped like a USB flash drive. None of them aresafe for young people to use. Help us spread the awareness of the harmful effects of e-cigarette use by talking to studentsabout the dangers today. We commend each of the area athletes that committed to being aleader and helped raise awareness of this increasing problem by steering clear of the harmfuleffects of JUULing. For help quitting, the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline is available at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), and for Spanish services at 1-855-DÉJELO-YA (1-855-335-3569). We encourage parentsand teens to talk to your healthcare provider about resources and support. For additionalresources visit www.QuitNow.ne.gov or www.pphd.org. Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and qualityof life for all who live, learn, work and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are ahealthier and safer Panhandle Community.

Alliance High School Senior, Joel Baker, receives scholarship from Panhandle Public Health District

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565103625207.jpeg" width="256">Photo courtesy: <a href="www.canstockphoto.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.canstockphoto.com</a> Click <a href="https://www.panhandlepost.com/category/obituaries/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners. Panhandle Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="kcowradio@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">kcowradio@gmail.com</a>

Recent obituaries

The Alliance City Council held a special meeting Tuesday to discuss options to meet the City's Transit and Parks needs and also look at direction for the City owned property at 1200 Flack Ave..the former Bomgaars Building, which the City purchased in 2018.&nbsp; City Manager Jeff Sprock gave a detailed report of his findings, following requests by Council to look into expansion of current facilities, relocating the Parks and Street Departments, Building a stand alone Public transit Bus Barn and seeking options for rehabbing or marketing the former Bomgaars building.&nbsp;&nbsp; City Manager Sprock outlined the current needs for Alliance, which included a parks maintenance facility, expanded room for the public works, electric department, Police and Communications, City Hall, a new Airport Hanger and Fire Training facility. with the biggest needs being Parks and Transit.&nbsp; Sprock presented several options to the Council...remodeling the Bomgaars building,&nbsp;Expanding the Public works building or&nbsp;building a new facility...each with their benefits and challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sprock outlined several ideas regarding expansion of the current public works building which would allow additional space for the Electric, Water and Public transit and would then allow the Street Department to move into Public Works facility and in turn the Parks Department would move into the Street Building.&nbsp;The upside of the expansion would be consolidation, transit money would be available to help with costs, More of the Citys reserves would be available and the building could be designed to meet the department needs.&nbsp;The downside would be the total cost is unknown at this time and what would the City do with the building at 1200 Flack.&nbsp;Sprock gave the council some estimated costs for the expansion, based on total square footage needed for each department and with some cost share funds available the estimated cost was just under 1.6 million.&nbsp; Sprock also outlined 2 options for remodeling the Bomgaars building. The benefits of which would be.... 1. Making good use of a vacant property2. The property is fenced3. Allows for the development of East 12th street The Challenges of remodeling the 1200 Flack Building. 1. It is an older building2. It has a concrete floor with no drainage3. It has interior support pillars4. The only paved access is off Highway 875. It is not centrally located6. 12th street would need to be paved to Potash Ave.&nbsp; Box Butte Development Director Chelsie Herian spoke to the Council about marketing 1200 Flack, saying she has spoken with several parties who expressed interest in buying the building. Some retail, some Industrial. Herian asked the Council..." could the building be sold" and could she move forward if the price is agreeable? City Manager Sprock wraped up his presentation saying the City has the borrowing capacity and reserves to afford any of the options discussed. Sprock said it is the recommendation of City staff to move forward with the expansion of the Public Works Building, Move the Street Department to that facility and move the Parks Department to the Streets building. Sprock said the next step would be to hire an engineer to assess the property and work with staff to create a design for the expansion.&nbsp; Mayor Mike Dafney asked for input from the City Department Heads. Cultural and Leisure Service Director Shana Brown said the Bomgaars building would not be the best for her department due to the distance from downtown and limited access. She would support following the staff recommendation.&nbsp;Electric Superintendent Kirby Bridge and Water/Sewer/Street Superintendent Ross Grant both said they would support the public works expansion.&nbsp;Fire Chief Troy Shoemaker and Police Chief John Kiss both said moving to the former Bomgaars building would allow their departments more space, but they would follow whatever direction the Council decided.&nbsp;Mayor Dafney said&nbsp;he would be in favor of following the Staff recommendations and stated that he felt the City made a mistake in purchasing the facility at 1200 Flack and it was time to own up to that and make a decision on what to do. Dafney said "the city has been sitting on this for 2 years" .&nbsp;Mayor Dafney asked the other Council members for their input. Council members&nbsp;Annora Bentley and Ryann Reynolds both said they would support selling&nbsp;1200 Flack and getting it back on the tax rolls. Councilman Brian Mischnick spoke on the potential impacts this project would have on the Citys ability to maintain their current sewer/water/electic and streets, if funds go to the expansion project.&nbsp;Mayor Dafney moved to follow the staff recommendation and the motion passed 3-1 with Councilman Mischnick voting no.&nbsp; Mayor Dafney then moved to allow Box Butte Development to explore selling the 1200 Flack facility with council approval of any potential sale. That motion passed 4-0.&nbsp;Councilman Earl Jones was excused from the meeting.&nbsp; In other business the Council approved a resolution authorizing an Amended Memorandum of Argeement with Western Nebraska Community College for leased space within the Alliance Library/Learning Center.

Alliance city council approves facilities expansion, looks to sell former Bomgaars building

Chadron Police and the Dawes County Coroner's Office are investigating&nbsp;the death of a 53 year old Chadron resident.&nbsp; According to a press release from Dawes County Attorney Vance Haug,&nbsp; On Monday Morning, December 9,&nbsp;at approximately 7:15 am,&nbsp;Chadron Police were called to investigate the unattended death of Scott Gibbons.&nbsp;Gibbons was found dead in the home of a family member, who discovered him to be non-responsive on the couch when she awoke that morning. The Dawes County Attorney/ Coroner's Office was contacted shortly thereafter and an autopsy was ordered to assist in determining the cause of death. Foul play is not suspected and the investigation is ongoing.

Chadron PD investigating death of Chadron resident

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, an outspoken advocate for Nebraska agriculture and trade, issued the following statement regarding the agreement reached on the USMCA trade deal.&nbsp; “It’s about dang time and it took a messy fight, but here’s the great news: we’ve earned a win for Nebraska farmers and ranchers. I’ve been working with the President for more than a year now, pushing Speaker Pelosi to get this done. I’m glad House Democrats have stopped stonewalling so we can let Nebraska keep feeding the world.”<img src="https://ci4.googleusercontent.com/proxy/TMJZYsU60nJeBj8ZjCg9q7zSkGNLevGsmhGot58eovtNKHRAbEhf50VwWoHESCob5UZPLahhhX_LhOSA83p402jeaTxP-lJgY2ARWmoiEPS_aLB_e_NifKRid0QeKLkX5lcEJFsgM3neTjARP0xTF18fjhv-T17RQNA=s0-d-e1-ft#https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/Customers/SenSasse/iqtrk.gif?crop=15559.13165588.6148222.7456038" height="0" width="0"><img src="https://ci4.googleusercontent.com/proxy/TMJZYsU60nJeBj8ZjCg9q7zSkGNLevGsmhGot58eovtNKHRAbEhf50VwWoHESCob5UZPLahhhX_LhOSA83p402jeaTxP-lJgY2ARWmoiEPS_aLB_e_NifKRid0QeKLkX5lcEJFsgM3neTjARP0xTF18fjhv-T17RQNA=s0-d-e1-ft#https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/Customers/SenSasse/iqtrk.gif?crop=15559.13165588.6148222.7456038" height="0" width="0">

U.S. Senator Sasse USMCA trade deal

The Alliance Public Library&nbsp; will host Humanities Nebraska with Gwen Meister- The mountain Dulcimer on Monday December 9th from 5- 6 PM.&nbsp; The Alliance Chamber of Commerce will have Santa in his house starting at 2PM on Saturday the 14th.&nbsp; Make sure you check out the Santa schedule on the community calendar so your kids can make their Christmas Wish.&nbsp;&nbsp;7th street dance studio will have 2 performances at the performing art center at 3PM and 6 PM on Saturday December 15th. The Alliance Community Choir will perform Sounds of Christmas on Sunday December 15th at the United Methodist Church at 2 PM as well as Wednesday December 18th at St. Johns at 7 PM! Don't miss out on your opportunity to hear them perform!&nbsp; This concludes the Box Butte County Activity Report brought to you by Box Butte Development Corporation &amp; Tourism as well as KCOW, working together to Build the Best Home Town in America.&nbsp; To Chart your Course find more local events all year round at VisitAlliance.com!

Box Butte Co. actiity report for week of 12/ 9/19

CHADRON – Chadron State College expects to honor 229 candidates for graduation at commencement exercises Friday.&nbsp;Dr. Beth Wentworth, Mathematics Professor, will speak at the graduate ceremony in Memorial Hall at 2 p.m.&nbsp;CSC 2014 alumnus Adolfo Daniel Reynaga, an Attorney with Legal Aid of Nebraska, will speak at the undergraduate ceremony in the Chicoine Center at 4 p.m.&nbsp;Following is the list of candidates expected to graduate by degree. It consists of 92 students for master's degrees and 137 students for bachelor's degrees.&nbsp;***Summa cum laude, 3.9-4.0 GPA&nbsp;**Magna cum laude, 3.75-3.89 GPA&nbsp;*Cum laude, 3.6-3.74&nbsp;Master of Arts in EducationNebraskaAlliance : Jacqueline WalkerArthur: Amanda VasaBlue Hill: Leah AnderjaskaBridgeport: Michelle StevensCedar Bluffs: Kristina HanzelChadron: Rick Arnold, Alia Brennan, Jamie McLain, Jonn McLainColumbus: Brady VancuraEagle: Maryah HardingGrand Island: John Kucera, Ariel StoppkotteImperial: Alexandrea JohnsonLincoln: Patrick GuntherMaywood: Mary TidymanNorth Platte: Megan HarwagerOgallala : Jill MaxOmaha: Thomas Benedetto, Marybeth FerreePawnee City: Taylor BaumertPlattsmouth: Michael SteubeScottsbluff: Scott HarveySidney: Kelsey WatchornOther States and CountriesRichanne Dolfi, San Dimas, Calif.Micaiah Lanckriet, Julesburg, Colo.Julie Vaught-Sullivan, Longmont, Colo.Michael Dischner, Yuma, Colo.Zachary Adams, Hollywood, Md.Brady Bisgaard, Belle Fourche, S.D.Jon Pierson, Martin, S.D.Tyler Jensen, Sturgis, S.D.Katy Jutting, Sturgis, S.D.Chris Anderson, Houston, TexasMichelle Dahlberg, Buffalo, Wyo.Emily Engel, Casper, Wyo.Patrick Pace, Cheyenne, Wyo.Jeremy Slack, Rawlins, Wyo.JoDee Mendez, Torrington, Wyo.Nathan Pindell, Wheatland, Wyo.&nbsp;Master of Business AdministrationNebraskaAlbion: Jerad McLeanAlliance: Cindy BakerGering: Chelsi CopseyKearney: Brooke MeuschMeadow Grove: Benjamin CollinsPleasant Dale: Ashley HinesOther States and CountriesTuyen Le, Stockton, Calif.Katelyn Strode, Centennial, Colo.Kasey Winter, Jacksonville, Fla.James Entzminger, Aurora, Ill.Jonathan Delmore, Mounds, Ill.Brenton Crane, Madison, Ind.Shelly Pittman, Topeka, Kan.Victor Johnson, Howell, N.J.Gretchen Szymanski, Buffalo, N.Y.Linda McCartan, West Seneca, N.Y.Abraham Rocha, San Antonio, TexasLogan Stropko, Thermopolis, Wyo.Siphosenkosi Mpofu, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Master of EducationNebraskaAlliance: Shasta NguyenBridgeport: Chelsae BeyerGering: Morgan WentzGrand Island: Miranda OberschulteHaigler: Paige StrandHarrisburg: Priscilla StaufferHastings: Krista BehmerMorrill: Nicholas KuxhausenScottsbluff: Jamie Batterman, Madison KellerSouth Sioux City: Nathaniel VajgrtValentine: Erin DunnWallace : Sharon VoteWood Lake: Bobbie RobinsonOther States and CountriesSamantha Atter, Centennial, Colo.Mackenzie Smith, Littleton, Colo.Jennifer McWashington, Sioux City, IowaJohn Ponder, Kellyville, Okla.Shannon Allen, Rapid City, S.D.Matthew Chenevert, Casper, Wyo.Michelle Stoneking, Casper, Wyo.Shawna Cox, Gillette, Wyo.Alisha Thrash, Gillette, Wyo.Taylor Willard, Gillette, Wyo.&nbsp;Master of Science in Organizational ManagementNebraskaLincoln: Karen Houseman, John NasonLouisville: Brandy RobbinsOmaha: Danielle BrazzlePlymouth: Emily VolkerOther States and CountriesErin Heide, Mandan, N.D.Horace&nbsp;Wilkerson, Edmond, Okla.Rebecca Stevenson, Lacey, Wash.Paula Eskam, Laramie, Wyo.&nbsp;Bachelor of Applied Science&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carlos Aguirre*, Tucson, Ariz.Melissa Fraijo**, Gurnee, Ill.Kaleb Fritz, Creighton, Neb.Taylor Rempp, Harrison, Neb.&nbsp;Bachelor of Arts&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NebraskaAinsworth: Logan PhilbenAlliance : Matthew Ellis, Ashley Fattig, Tristan Heldenbrand*, Jordan Mak, Jolene Rydell, Nicholas Smith, Sharaya ToofBayard: Kalane AndersBenkelman: Tate JensenBridgeport: Jazalyne HendersonBrule: Brittney Heidemann*Callaway: Carly KulpCambridge: Karla WhippleChadron: Morgan Cullan, Colin Deines, Roxanne Furtwangler, Josie SemroskaCurtis: Brett Jones, Megan Sprague**Gering: Dakota WademanGordon: Hannah Calkins, Jennaya Hill*Harrison: Riley Ellis, Raine Herren**, Robert JordanHay Springs: Shea Maddox, Jennifer WohlHemingford: Colt FosterKimball: Hannah Bemis, Jessica RawlingsMcCook: Mitchell CollicottMitchell: Gayl KingOgallala : Aaron WoodRushville: Gina TullisSargent: Rowdy MoonScottsbluff: Patrick Cassidy, Chandler Markel, Creighton Miller, Kayla Schanaman, Cody Wilson, Becky WylieSidney: Taylor ParsonsSpringview: Thad CarrSyracuse: Jamie&nbsp;ThomasValentine: Natalie SouksanWaco: Jessica Tracy**Wahoo: Lydia PrivettSouth DakotaHermosa: Samantha PersingerHill City: Austin ClaymoreHot Springs: Zoe AndersonKadoka: Tyen PalmerRapid City: Jessie Drury, Jack RoyalsSturgis: Selena VogelWyomingCheyenne: Stacy Koch***, Nan WetzelDouglas: Tyrel LemanFort Laramie: Amanda BrownGillette: Desiree Dierksen, Chris&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;PasekGuernsey: Kayla GrossHuntley : Sara KosturNewcastle: Kaitlin MackePine Bluffs: Carly EastmanPowell: Mercedes Haney*Riverton: Brandon FullertonThayne: Emily Jones***Other States and CountriesJordan Watt, Phoenix, Ariz.Zachary Kozlik, Coronado, Calif.Matthew Vargas, Modesto, Calif.Nathan Baca, Palmdale, Calif.Priest Jennings, Stockton, Calif.Ezekiel Zuhlke, Bennett, Colo.Angela Vigil, Colorado Springs, Colo.Caitlin Stroh***, Greeley, Colo.Travis Mills**, Timnath, Colo.Alyssa Kuhn, Wray, Colo.Tevon Wright, Carol City, Fla.Carlos Calle**, Clermont, Fla.Louis Smith, Fort Pierce, Fla.Madeline Kiesel, Hanover Park, Ill.Jeremy Ruffin, Matteson, Ill.DeAndre Barthwell, Westland, Mich.Lori Griffith, Poplar Bluff, Mo.Madison Weikert***, Belgrade, Mont.Tyree Fryar, Burlington, N.J.Darius Elkin, Marshallville, OhioAdoum Mbang, Yaounde, CameroonMeron Achahmanew, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaNatnael Tadesse, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaConor Fallon, Ulm, Germany&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nicole Lartey, Sakumono, GhanaRicardo Ortiz Dominguez**, Morelia, MichoacanChinaza Nwosa, Ikoyi, NigeriaResul Rejepov, Ashgabat, TurkmenistanYen Nguyen***, Hanoi, Vietnam&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bachelor of Science&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NebraskaGordon: Micah Scherbarth***Kearney: Laura Larsen**McCook: Colton MolcykMorrill: Marina McCrearySeward: Caitlin GustafsonOther States and CountriesNadejda Westly, Orange, Calif.Cassidy Johnson*, Rock Springs, Wyo.Viraj Faria***, Thane, IndiaTochukwu Mbanugo Jr.*, Abuja, Nigeria&nbsp;Bachelor of Science in EducationNebraskaArthur: Kelsey Channer*Benkelman: Courtney GritzukChadron: Phillip Duncan, Lane Jersild, Jazlyn Reitz, Tristin SteinHarrisburg: Paige CrossHoldrege: Bryan DentonMiller: Dawnae NicholsOgallala : Sydni Stevens***Omaha: Dan PreisterOrd: Nolan GrintRushville: Shayley Coburn***, Bailey SwansonValentine: Emily BukaskeOther States and CountriesTyler Lewis, Arvada, Colo.Kayla Michel, Brighton, Colo.Megan Chintala*, Fleming, Colo.Alyssa Geist***, Westminster, Colo.Brock Thumm, Watervliet, Mich.Mackenzie McMahon, Rapid City, S.D.Tayleigh Kaup*, Wagner, S.D.Zecharie James, Hampton, Va.Hally Milleson***, Riverton, Wyo.Jalynn McClure**, Worland, Wyo.Kodiak French*, Wright, Wyo.Clinton Albertus, Willemstad, Curacao

CSC to honor 229 at Friday commencement

Here is the agenda for a special meeting of the Alliance City Council scheduled for Tuesday December 10th at 1:00pm in the Municipal Building Conference Room. Panhandle Post will have full coverage of the meeting late tomorrow. .&nbsp;Call to Order Roll Call Open Meetings Act Announcement&nbsp;For the public's reference a copy of the Open Meetings Law has been posted on the north wall of this room in the audience area. This posting complies with the requirements of the Nebraska Legislature.&nbsp; A. Resolution No. 19-116 - Amended Memorandum of Agreement with Western NE Community College&nbsp;This resolution will authorize entering into an Amended Memorandum of Agreement with WNCC for leased space within the Alliance Library/Learning Center.&nbsp;B. Discussion and Direction on Property Owned by the City, 1200 Flack Avenue&nbsp;The City of Alliance owns the property at 1200 Flack Avenue, the former Bomgaar's Building. The property was purchased by the City in June, 2018 for use as a Parks Shop and Public Transit Barn. City Manager Sprock will report on his findings regarding the requests Council made following the April 25, 2019 Special Meeting.&nbsp; Adjournment&nbsp;Respectfully submitted,&nbsp; Linda S. Vines City Clerk&nbsp;† Added by addendum to agenda 24 hours prior to the meeting.&nbsp;The City Council reserves the right to adjourn into closed session as per Section 84-1410 of the Nebraska Revised Statutes.&nbsp;

Agenda Set for special Alliance Council Meetng

Chadron Public SchoolsBoard of EducationRegular Board Meeting – 5:30 PM December 9, 2019Central Office Board Room“Infinite Possibilities – Infinite Education” “Opportunities for All” Board Goals (Amended 4.8.19): 1. CPS students will either be proficient or meet typical growth in core areas using appropriate grade levels assessments by providing multi-tiered systems of support to ensure equitable learning environments for all students by 2023-24. (Teaching &amp;amp; Learning which includes: College &amp;amp; Career Ready, Assessment, Teacher Effectiveness) 2. Foster a positive/adaptive culture that builds trusting relationships through communication and collaboration with all stakeholders for continuous school improvement. (Positive Partnerships, Relationships, and Student Success) Notified BOE Member Absences: The Board at the meeting may rearrange the order of the agenda.1. ROUTINE MATTERS:a. Welcome and Recognition of Visitorsb. Meeting Called to Order – A complete copy of the Open Meetings Act is posted on the west wall of the boardroom, just inside the doorway.c. Pledge of Allegianced. Determine if a Quorum is Presente. Motion to Declare the Meeting Properly Publicized and Open to the Publicf. Approval of the Agenda for the December 9, 2019 Regular Board Meeting.g. Approval of the Minutes from the Regular Board Meeting for November 11, 2019 and Minutes from the Special Board Meeting on December 4, 2019.“Celebrate to Elevate”h. Awards and/or Honors-Mr. Dressel awarded 2019 Commissioner’s Talent Pool Awardi. High Fives-Maintenance staff for snow removal and rest of staff for their patience. Chase County FFA for National Parliamentary Procedure Awardj. Recognition of Public Requesting to Comment on Specific Agenda Items2. BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS:a. Treasurer’s Report – Submitted by Sara Taylor, Business Managerb. Approval of Bills and Claims - General Fund, Depreciation Fund, Lunch Fund, Cooperative Fund, and Special Building Fundc. Approval of Bills and Claims - Student Activity Fund and Student Fee Fund 3. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:a. Discuss, consider, and take all necessary action on Level II Para Educator Wages-Goals 1-2- Personnel committee recommends an increase of $2/hour-Personnel Committee will investigate comparable positions and their pay scale. 4. NEW BUSINESS:a. Discuss, consider, and take all necessary action on BOE members attending Conferences/Meetings/Trainings Goals 1-2b. Discuss, consider, and take all necessary action on the following policies-Goals 1-2:i. Policy 3451 (NEW) Handling of Money for School Sponsored Activities-Second Readingii. Policy 5141.6 School Wellness Policy-Second Readingiii. Policy 3480 Contracting for Services-Reviewediv. Policy 3500 Non-Instructional Operations-First Readingv. Policy 3510 Operation and Maintenance of Plant- First Reading 5. PERSONNEL:a. Discuss, consider, and take all necessary action on Unit II Negotiated Agreement 2020-21 &amp; 2021-22 Goal 2-Unit II membership approved.b. Discuss, consider, and take all necessary action on Superintendent Evaluation Goals 1-2- Please fill out the evaluation form prior to the BOE meeting. 6. STUDENT PERFORMANCE AND PROGRAM REPORTS:a. Administrator Reports Including: Building Principals, Technology Director, Curriculum Director, and Maintenance Supervisor (Review Enrollment)b. Board Committee Reports - If any activity has occurred; Finance Committee (2nd Monday @ Noon); American Civics/Curriculum Committee (3rd Monday @ Noon); Policy Committee (3rd Monday @ 7 AM) Building &amp; Grounds Committee ($7.435+ Million in Projectsto do) (1 st Monday at noon); Personnel Committee (2nd Monday @ 7 AM); Safety Committee; Legislative Committee and Foundation Committee (3rd Wednesday at 7 AM)-On Google docs is a form for recording committee minutes 7. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT AND BOARD-SUPERINTENDENT DISCUSSION:AQuESTT – Accountability for a Quality Education System Today and Tomorrow AQuESTT is Nebraska’s next-generation accountability system. It aims to meet and exceed statutory requirements for accountability (R.S.S 79-760.06 and 79-760.07) by considering the broader educational experiences and success of students.a. Leadership &amp; Support Systems for Six (6) Tenets of AQuESTT ESU 13 Enrollment TrendsRule 10 Listening Meeting w/Robin Stevens State BOE Member December 12 @ 4:30-6PM in CO conference room via ZoomFinal Numbers from DADavidsonAwarded $28,222 from DEQ Waste GrantTax Data from Open SkyTeaching, Learning, &amp; Serving b. College ; Career Ready &amp; CivicContracting with ESU 13 for IFSP Meetings 2nd Semester c. Assessment d. Educator EffectivenessCody Wolf SPED preschool para educator.Success, Access, &amp; Supportve Partnships, Relationships, and SuccessWeekly Rotary MeetingsNASB Monthly UpdateRadio f. Transitions g. Educational Opportunities; Access MHTTC Grant for School MH Learning Community Title I Report filed on Delinquent Students in Institutionsh. Thank Yous- 8. BOARD MEMBER ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION (Non-Action)a. Something the BOE did tonight for student learning Goals 1-2b. Discuss NASB Superintendent Search Goals 1-2c. Jack Moles, Executive Director, NRCSA-Goal 2d. Committee Assignments/Trainings for 2020-Goal 2e. NASB/NCSA Conference Report Goal 2-Tom Menkef.&nbsp;Discuss MS Academic Interventionist Proposal9. ADVANCE PLANNING (GOAL 3):a. American Civics/Curriculum Committee Meeting, December 9, 2019 at 5 PM (Public)b. Policy Committee Meeting-No meeting in December, 2019.c. Building &amp;amp; Grounds Committee Meeting-January 6, 2020 @ Noond. Personnel Meeting-January 13, 2020 at 7 AMe. Finance Committee Meeting – January 13, 2020 at Noonf. Regular Board Meeting–January 13, 2020 at 5:30 PMg. Legislative Committee-h. Foundation-December 18, 2019 @ 7 AMi. Superintendent Interviews December 10 &amp;amp; 11, 2019j. NASB President’s Retreat February 16 &amp;amp; 17, 2020 in Sidneyk. Review Upcoming BOE Calendar-Officer Election; Committee Appointments; Superintendent; Review Superintendent Evaluation Instrument; Calendar Draft; Review Long Term Facility Plans, Strategic Plans, etc; BOE Administrative Retreat, NASB Legal IssuesConference; Building &amp;amp; Grounds Committee-summer projects; Personnel Committee- Superintendent Goals 10. PUBLIC COMMENT TIME FOR ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA(No Personnel Items)Public Participation at Board Meetings 9325.5 The function of meetings of the Chadron Board of Education is to conduct the business of the Chadron Public School District, asdistinguished from providing an open citizen’s forum. In accord with its policy confirming the right and desirability of the public to express its point of view to the board, delegations or individuals are welcome at regular meetings, subject to the following regulations designed to expedite deliberations and provide for full consideration of problems and questions:1. Visitors to board meetings shall conduct themselves in a dignified manner. Displays of emotion, applause, or other verbal or physical demonstrations of support or opposition to a topic or a person who is speaking are unacceptable.2. Persons addressing the Board on an item on the agenda will be called on during the public comment section of the agenda or when that respective item is discussed. Persons addressing the Board on an item not on the agenda will be given the opportunity to do so under the public comment section only. No more than a total of ten minutes will be allowed for public discussion of an item not on the agenda. Pursuant to the Open Meetings Act, the board will not take any action on matters that are not on the agenda. 3. To speak to an item on the agenda:a. Stand during the visitor’s recognition;b. State your name;c. State the agenda item to which you wish to speak - your name will be placed under that subject on the agenda and you will be called upon when that subject comes up for discussion, or you may speak on that item during the public comment section;d. Should a person arrive late and wish to speak to an agenda item yet to be considered, the person’s name, and agenda item must be made available to the chairperson through a principal or the superintendent.4. A time limit of five minutes per speaker will be allowed. Not more than a total of twenty minutes will be allowed for public discussion of an agenda item. These time limits may be extended by a consensus of the members present.5. At a public meeting of the board, no person shall orally initiate charges or complaints against individual employees of the district or challenge instructional materials used in the district. All such charges, complaints, or challenges shall be presented through the appropriate district complaint process. Complaints involving the reputation of any person connected with the district will not be heardby the Board while sitting in public session. 6. Any written or printed materials to be circulated for a meeting of the board of education must be submitted to the superintendent three working days prior to the board meeting. This material will be transmitted to the members of the board for their consideration.Adopted: 10-10-83 Chadron Public SchoolsAmended: 1-11-10 Chadron, NebraskaReviewed: 8-11-1411. VOTE TO EXCUSE ANY ABSENT BOARD MEMBER(S):12. ADJOURNMENT:a. Motion for Adjournment FOOTNOTE – The board of education may go into closed session by an affirmative vote of a majority of its voting members if a closed session is clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual. NOTICE: Except for an emergency, this agenda shall not be altered later than twenty-four hours before scheduled commencement of the meeting.

Agenda set for tonight's Chadrom BOE meeting

No injuries were reported in a multi vehicle crash early Monday morning in Scottsbluff. The Scottsbluff Police Department and the Scottsbluff Fire Department were dispatched to the intersection of East Overland Drive and Highway 26 at approximately 5:16 am December 9 in reference to a 3 car motor vehicle accident. According to a Media release from the Scottsbluff Police Department, During the investigation it was learned that a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am was travelling westbound on Highland Road attempting to cross the intersection onto East Overland Drive.&nbsp;The Grand Am was operated by a juvenile female.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The juvenile female failed to notice a 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser which was headed eastbound on Highway 26.&nbsp;The Chrysler was being operated by 43 year old Bryan Ballinger of Scottsbluff.&nbsp;The Grand Am struck the driver’s side of the Chrysler.&nbsp;The force of the impact caused the Chrysler to strike a 2013 Ford SUV driven by 44 year old Nichole Robinson of Gering which was facing Eastbound on East Overland Dr.&nbsp;&nbsp;All three vehicles sustained significant damages and required towing from the scene.&nbsp;No injuries were reported and none of the individuals were transported to the hospital.&nbsp;The juvenile female was cited for failure to yield the right of way.&nbsp;The Scottsbluff Police Department was assisted by the Nebraska State Patrol, Scottsbluff Fire Department, and Valley Ambulance Service.&nbsp;

No injuries reported in early morning car crash in Scottsbluff

Authorities say a Scottsbluff woman who was injured last month along with her 6-year-old son in a crash in rural Scottsbluff County, has died. The Scottsbluff Star-Herald reports that 28-year-old Holly Heath died at Regional West Medical Center. Her family says she had been on life support and that her organs have been donated to help others. The Nebraska State Patrol says the crash happened Nov. 20, when Heath pulled out onto Highway 26 from a county road and into the path of another vehicle. The driver of the other vehicle also was injured.

Scottsbluff woman dies from injuries in November crash

By KALIN KROHEPanhandle Post <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575650743342.jpeg">Photo courtesy: Game Changer, Chadron There will be a legendary comic book colorist in Chadron at Game Changer on Dec. 11. Game Changer is located at 173 Main Street. Game Changer will be releasing the exclusive Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles special edition #100 comic book this Wednesday. The front cover was illustrated by American comic book artist Neal Adams (Batman, Green Arrow, Ben Casey). The back cover was created by Dan Connor (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Casper's Ghostland, 'My Gal, the Zombie') . Connor is currently the coloring artist for "Nightmare Before Christmas: Zero's Journey." Connor will be singing autographs and creating sketches from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information visit, <a href="facebook.com/gamechanger.store" target="_blank">facebook.com/gamechanger.store</a> <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575652112686.jpeg" width="414">

Meet legendary comic book artist Dan Conner at Game Changer in Chadron 

AP - A western Nebraska communications provider is scrambling to restore service after a wintery weekend storm toppled three of the company’s service towers in the Nebraska Panhandle. The Scottsbluff Star Herald reports that Action Communications towers near Chadron State park, southern Sheridan County and Kimball all collapsed in the Thanksgiving weekend storm. Action Communications President Rick Derr says repair crews are working to restore service. ﻿The Kimball tower housed communications systems for the Kimball County Sheriff’s Department and Nebraska State Patrol. Communication equipment from that tower has been relocated to get those emergency services restored quickly until a replacement tower can be erected.

Storm topples 3 additional towers in western Nebraska

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575584310046.jpeg" width="320">Engineers found a temporary solution for KQSK 97.5FM after high winds and ice caused a tower southwest of Chadron to collapse last weekend.&nbsp;The top five sections of the 500-foot tower fell around 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, causing&nbsp;a loss of signal for Double Q Country KQSK-FM, as well as several agencies and organizations that lease space on the tower for broadcast equipment. “We are working through this process as quickly as possible, and we will be rebuilding a newer, better radio tower at the current site just south of Chadron,” said General Manager Olivia Hasenauer. “In the interim, we do have a temporary antenna and transmitter for KQSK and are excited to have the 97.5FM signal back on the airwaves. It will be an exhilarating 2020 when we erect the new 500-foot tower for not only our company and team, but also our advertisers and listeners.” Engineers from Eagle Radio are working with organizations including the Dawes County Sheriff's Office, NOAA, Northwest Rural Public Power District and the Chadron Amateur Radio Club to restore broadcast capabilities. “We have a temporary tower location established in Chadron and now the majority population of Dawes County can hear Double Q Country on 97.5,” said Kevin Wagner, Eagle’s chief engineer of radio operations. “Serving Chadron and Dawes County listeners has been our priority and will continue to be our priority in 2020.” The tower, located at 210 McGannon Road approximately 15 miles southwest of Chadron, was constructed between Sept. 9, 1979, and July 9, 1980. Bill Mokry of the National Weather Service in Cheyenne said the transmitters used to feed most of northwest Nebraska NOAA weather radios were located on the fallen tower, including Dawes, Sioux, Box Butte and some counties in southwest South Dakota. He said his office is working with the sister weather station in Rapid City, S.D., to &nbsp;use their transmitters to cover areas that overlap with the Cheyenne region. "There will be at least some coverage ... in a good portion of the northern half of Dawes and northern portion of Sioux," Mokry said, noting there is no definitive timeline on when that backup plan will be launched. "We're still in the process of &nbsp;... finalizing that, and we'll have an official press release once that's up and running." He urged residents in areas without coverage to seek information normally broadcast on the NOAA radios via other sources — AM/FM radio, television, online and via smartphone apps. Smartphones within range of a cell signal will continue to receive severe weather alerts via their carrier. The good news? The weather is expected to remain relatively calm through the next several days as temperatures rise above freezing and the region begins to dig out from the storm that brought 14 inches of snow to the Chadron area. It was that weekend storm front that caused the stress on the tower, leading to the collapse. "The Chadron area was dealing with dense freezing fog prior to high winds .. leading to frost buildup. With those 50 mph wind gusts or stronger came roaring through the area, it put a lot of stress on the tower," Mokry said. "Fourteen inches plus howling 50 mph wind It's going to do some damage."

KQSK 97.5FM back on the air after tower collapse

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575569171143.png" width="480">An officer with the North Platte Police Department detains a male subject following the report of suspicious subjects carrying guns in Downtown North Platte on Thursday NORTH PLATTE, NE-An incident in Downtown North Platte was resolved with no arrests and no charges. On Thursday at 10:56 AM, officers responded to the area of 2nd and Dewey Streets in regards to a disturbance. It was further reported, while officers were en-route, that a gun was involved. Multiple officers from multiple agencies, including the North Platte Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and Nebraska State Patrol, responded to the area. Responding officers detained and handcuffed all of the occupants of the vehicle for officer safety. Upon further investigation, it was determined that a vehicle occupied by four adult subjects traveling through the area from Idaho to another town in Nebraska had stopped in North Platte due to an argument between the occupants. Several witnesses called the police because of the argument, and the because witnesses observed one of the occupants in possession of a handgun. Officers were able to locate the reported handgun in plain view in the front passenger compartment of the vehicle. It was determined that there was no violation of the law by the occupants and their actions, and the occupants were released. The call was of particular concern to law enforcement because of several banks located in the area. &nbsp;

Lawfully carried weapon draws concern in Downtown NP

By KALIN KROHEPanhandle Post On Dec. 2 Chadron police officers were called to the 200 block of West 4th Street for an alleged altercation involving individuals threatening to use a handgun against a resident. "It was learned from interviewing both the victim and individuals who were present on scene that Bernard Brett had a concealed weapon in his vehicle, but did not possess a concealed carry permit," said Tim Lordino, Chadron Police Chief. "Officers also located less than an ounce of marijuana on Brett." 	Brett had made a threat involving the use of a handgun against the victim. Brett was arrested on suspicion of carrying a concealed weapon, terroristic threats and possession of marijuana (less than one ounce). Brett was transported to the Dawes County Jail and lodged.&nbsp;

Man arrested terroristic threats, weapon, marijuana in Chadron 

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575560319430.jpeg">-Photo courtesy: Oshkosh Water Tower Facebook Lincoln -&nbsp;Proudly standing 120-feet tall, the Oshkosh Water Tower has been an iconic landmark in Garden County since 1920. Like a lighthouse to the plains, its welcoming presence can be seen from miles away. History Nebraska is pleased to announce that the tower has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places, nearly 100 years after its construction. This designation recognizes the importance the tower has in the development of Oshkosh from a village to a prosperous community.&nbsp; The tower is in excellent condition and is a classic example of a “tin-man” type elevated tower. These “tin-man” water towers were once standard across rural Nebraska communities, but are quickly disappearing as new technologies take hold. Even though the tower was retired as a water delivery system in 2018, the residents of Oshkosh banded together to save this landmark. According to the Tin Man from the Wizard of Oz, “A heart is not judged by how much you love; but how much you are loved by others”—this is certainly true of Oshkosh’s very-own “tin-man.” David Calease with History Nebraska’s Preservation Office feels that this is a special nomination.&nbsp;“If you can take yourself back to roughly 1920, think of the importance of running water to a community. Not all towns had it, and those that did were setting themselves up for future growth. For Oshkosh, the building of the water tower is an example of the planning and development that the community envisioned. Right after the water tower was completed there was a period of substantial economic growth in the community. Calease also says that this listing highlights the diversity of historic places on the National Register. "What I really like about this nomination is that it shows the versatility of the National Register program – it’s not just big buildings and fancy houses – we have historic resources all across the state, in nearly every community.” The National Register of Historic Places is the nation's inventory of properties deemed worthy of preservation.&nbsp;It is part of a national program to coordinate and support local and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect the nation's historic and archeological resources. Properties listed in the National Register are eligible for State and Federal tax incentives. For more information on the National Register program in Nebraska, contact History Nebraska’s Historic Preservation Office at (402) 471-4775 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://history.nebraska.gov/historic-preservation" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(38, 171, 226);">https://history.nebraska.gov/historic-preservation</a>.&nbsp; About History NebraskaHistory Nebraska collects, preserves, and shares Nebraska’s history for all people.&nbsp;History Nebraska operates the Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln and historic sites around the state including Chimney Rock National Historic Site, Fort Robinson History Center, Neligh Mill State Historic Site, Thomas Kennard State Historic Site, Senator George Norris State Historic Site, John Neihardt State Historic Site, and over 500 historical markers placed across Nebraska. History Nebraska administers the State Archives and Library; the State Historic Preservation Office; the Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center; the Office of the State Archeologist; publishes Nebraska History Magazine and books; and is responsible for the administration of the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission. More at&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=6189643914&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(38, 171, 226);">https://history.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and follow us on&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=8b0288d73a&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(38, 171, 226);">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=470a635dba&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(38, 171, 226);">Instagram</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=1e776f44b9&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(38, 171, 226);">Twitter</a>.

Oshkosh water tower listed on National Register of Historic Places

Police have released more information on a Gering man who has been missing since July. The following statement was posted on the Department's Facebook page: On July 6, 2019 Chance Englebert left an address in the 700 block of O Street on foot. Chance was seen on video walking past two businesses in Gering and an apartment in Terrytown. One of the videos of Chance shows him walking in the area of the intersection of Terry Boulevard and Stable Club Road in Terrytown. From the Terrytown area we have no other video showing Chance walking. There was a lot of information floating around that Chance’s phone last pinged at WTT in Scottsbluff. This information is not correct. Chance’s phone last communicated with a tower near Riverview Golf Course just west of Scottsbluff. Because of cell phone technology, the information did not greatly narrow down the area Chance may have last used his cell phone. The last time Chance’s phone was used was shortly after 9pm on July 6, 2019 in an area 2-3 miles south to southeast of that tower. During the week of July 8th, the Gering Police Department along with the Scottsbluff Police Department, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, as well as employees and volunteers from over 15 other agencies and businesses conducted searches in the areas that cell phone information showed Chance’s phone was pinged. The searches were aided by use of watercraft and sonar from the Scottsbluff Fire Department and Gering Fire Department. A fixed wing airplane from the Nebraska State Patrol and a helicopter from AirLink were utilized. The Central Gering Canal was drained to a very low flow rate so personnel could search it. Since that time, the Gering Police Department has utilized the services of search and rescue dogs along with cadaver dogs from organizations in Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico. While the initial searches centered around the area of southwest Scottsbluff, a greater area has been searched using drones, along with volunteers on the ground. To date, no evidence or traces of Chance Englebert have been discovered. Numerous interviews have been conducted in connection with this investigation, including Chance’s family and friends. With assistance from the Scottsbluff Police Department, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office and Nebraska State Patrol investigators have been able to follow up on dozens of tips and information that have come in. Investigators have also followed up on dozens of potential sightings of Chance in numerous states, including Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Texas, and Missouri. The law enforcement agencies in the jurisdictions where the potential sightings were reported have assisted in looking at video and other requests made of them. Thus far, none of the potential sighting have resulted in any useful information that will bring us closer to finding out what happed to Chance. Investigators with the Gering Police Department remain in regular contact with investigators from the Nebraska State Patrol, the Scottsbluff Police Department and the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office. The other agencies have been involved from the beginning of the investigation and they remain involved. Gering PD investigators have been in contact with personnel from the FBI office in Omaha. At this time the information in the Chance Englebert investigation does not contain the federal elements necessary for the FBI to open an investigation. FBI personnel have said that if information is developed that changes the circumstances being investigated, they will review that information with local investigators to determine if they can open a Federal investigation based on information that suggests a federal violation has occurred. The FBI has offered and continues to offer any assistance that local authorities deem necessary. One of the most common questions that has been asked of our investigators is why has this investigation not been deemed to be a homicide. As of this release there is no evidence to suggest foul play is involved in Chance’s disappearance. What we know at this point is that Chance was walking in Gering and Terrytown on his own free will. Because there is no evidence of a crime being committed the investigation remains in its original classification as a missing person. There has been a lot of misinformation and opinions passed around on different social media platforms with respect to the investigation. While we recognize that people are afforded the freedom of speech by the U.S. Constitution, we ask that people consider the consequences of the comments and thoughts they express on those most effected by Chance’s disappearance: his family and close friends. We encourage anyone with information about the investigation to contact the Gering Police Department. Although this remains an open Missing Person investigation, we welcome the sharing of information. Please keep in mind that not all information we have can be shared but we welcome an open dialogue. The most beneficial way to help is to say a prayer for Chance, his family and the Law Enforcement personnel looking for answers. Investigators from the Gering Police Department, Scottsbluff Police Department, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office and the Nebraska State Patrol continue to follow up on information that comes in from the public and those who knew Chance. Chance’s disappearance remains a priority for all of our Departments and our community. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575556335257.png">

Gering police release more information on man missing since July

The 8th Annual Kris Kringle Christmas boutique will be held at the Box Butte County Fairgrounds in Hemingford on Dec. 7. The boutique will happen in the multipurpose hall. Below is a list of vendors: -TIMBERDOODLES -- Marg Morava​-FARM HOUSE KIDS -- Natasha Schumacher-HEMINGFORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH-BOX BUTTE COUNTY FAIR FUNDRAISER DRAWING-STAR DANCER -- Jan Reynolds-TUNING ELEMENT -- Pam Soester-TOBIES'S COLOR STREET -- Tobie Underwood-INDULGENCES -- Melisa Turek-BEYOND LOVED (DOG IS GOOD) -- Angie Sitzman-CRAFTS by JULES -- Julie Lawrence-PEGGY'S KITCHEN -- Peggy Hollinrake-SCENTSY -- Kerry Morava-THIRTY ONE -- Amanda Willey-​USBORNE BOOKS &amp; MORE -- Jayme Sloat-MARY KAY -- Kenna Rose-HANSEN'S SCENTS -- Brent Hansen-​JAZZY's CRAFTS -- Diane Thomas You can find more information about the boutique at <a href="www.hemingfordkriskringlechristmas.com" target="_blank">www.hemingfordkriskringlechristmas.com</a><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575489704233.jpeg">

Hemingford Kris Kringle Christmas boutique this weekend

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575484170001.jpeg" width="469">By KALIN KROHEPanhandle Post A missing person in Chadron has been found dead in an alley. On Dec. 3 at approximately 3:30 p.m. the Chadron Police Department was notified of a missing person.&nbsp; "Officers began investigating the report and subsequently found 65 year-old Chari G. Bell of Chadron deceased in the alley behind the 300 block of Chadron Avenue at approximately 6:30 p.m," said Vance Haug, Dawes County Attorney/Coroner. The area was secured and an investigation into the cause of death is ongoing at this time. Haug said an autopsy has been ordered at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff. "More information will be released at a later date when available and appropriate," Haug added.

Missing Chadron resident found dead in an alley

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575479172069.jpeg" width="450">By KALIN KROHEPanhandle Post No one was injured after a vehicle accident on icy roads in Alliance late last month. On Nov. 26 at 1:11 p.m.&nbsp;a white 2015 Toyota Corolla driven by Fan Zenghui of Alliance was eastbound on 10th street and attempted to turn left onto Sheridan sliding on the snowy/icy street.&nbsp; "The vehicle turned approximately 90 degrees to the North, while sliding," said Alliance Police Lt. Kendall Allison.&nbsp;"The right front of the vehicle came into contact with a telephone guide wire adjacent to the alley between Sheridan and Dakota.&nbsp;After impact with the guide wire, the vehicle turned over onto its top."&nbsp; There were no injuries in this accident. Seats belts were in use. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575479189957.jpeg" width="520">

Icy roads cause vehicle accident in Alliance 

By KALIN KROHEPanhandle Post The annual Alliance Christmas parade was held on Dec. 3 in downtown Alliance. Many throughout the community attended on a cold night. The this year theme was "Oh the Places it will Snow." Below are the parade winner results: Youth – Alliance Girl ScoutsCommercial – Box Butte Public Employees Federal Credit UnionNon-Commercial – WNCC Powerline School <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474650866.jpeg" width="557"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474678155.jpeg" width="568"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474788168.jpeg" width="566"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474774746.jpeg" width="569"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474764710.jpeg" width="579"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474978936.jpeg" width="576"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575475087982.jpeg" width="578"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474962146.jpeg" width="583"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474951160.jpeg" width="578"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474755379.jpeg" width="574"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474743206.jpeg" width="572"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474707518.jpeg" width="581"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474845797.jpeg" width="594"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474862688.jpeg" width="595"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474879438.jpeg" width="591"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474890756.jpeg" width="586"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575475426512.jpeg" width="587"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474903445.jpeg" width="592"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474694515.jpeg" width="594"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474665740.jpeg" width="570"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575475004276.jpeg" width="580"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575475129244.jpeg" width="592"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474609894.jpeg" width="574"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575475144125.jpeg" width="579"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474559263.jpeg" width="576"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575475075552.jpeg" width="580"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474593622.jpeg" width="578"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474520750.jpeg" width="572"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575474540430.jpeg" width="573"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575475292832.jpeg" width="577">

Alliance Christmas parade photo gallery, results 

AP - The central Nebraska city of North Platte is moving to add vaping and e-cigarettes to its public no-smoking ban. The North Platte Telegraph reports that the City Council voted unanimously Tuesday night to give first-round approval to ban alternative nicotine products and electronic nicotine delivery systems to its tobacco regulations. ﻿The measure also would raise the minimum age from 18 to 19 for using, buying or possessing such products. Minors could possess them in their home under “direct supervision” of a parent or guardian, as they now can with tobacco products. The proposed ordinance must be approved twice more to be enacted.

Western NE leaders move to add vaping, e-cigarettes to ban

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - A hepatitis A outbreak tied to blackberries sold in Fresh Thyme grocery stores now includes 16 confirmed cases in six states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed 16 cases of hepatitis A, including seven in Nebraska, as part of the outbreak in Nebraska, Indiana, Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri and Wisconsin. Fresh Thyme has said it's cooperating with the investigation and working with suppliers to identify the source of the contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has urged consumers in Nebraska, Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, Ohio and Pennsylvania to discard any fresh blackberries bought from Fresh Thyme between Sept. 9 and Sept. 30. Hepatitis A is a virus that infects the liver and can cause mild, flu-like symptoms for several weeks

Hepatitis A outbreak tied to berries spreads to 1 more state

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nearly 800 Nebraska State Penitentiary inmates — more than half the Lincoln prison’s population — have signed a petition sent to state officials and various news outlets decrying conditions at the prison. The Lincoln Journal Star&nbsp;<a href="https://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/prisoners-petition-for-assistance-with-conditions-at-nebraska-penitentiary/article_935d8d18-5b36-5829-aa05-e684762ee38a.html" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(28, 167, 218);">reports</a>&nbsp;that the petition pans penitentiary administrators for putting the prison in modified lockdown. Because of the lockdown, meetings of self-betterment clubs or organizations have been limited or eliminated, and inmates have seen their use of the prison law library restricted. That restriction, the petition says, impedes prisoners' access to the courts, attorneys, legislators, judges and other legal sources. The petition also cites multiple changes in policies, procedures, rules, memorandums, protocols and inmate movement as problems. Department spokeswoman Laura Strimple told the Journal Star that the department had not received the petition.

Nearly 800 Nebraska inmates sign petition panning conditions

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575392403131.jpeg">-2020 Board of Directors: The 2020 WESTCO Board of Directors includes, front l-r - Dan Oligmueller, Erik Peterson, Craig Henkel and Allan Thorson; back – President David Briggs, Scott Schoeneman, Tim Campbell, and Matthew Ardissono. The 78th Annual Stockholders’ Meeting of Western Cooperative (WESTCO) took place Monday, December 2 at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center. Over 150 people attended the meeting. Controller Shawn Nelson presented the financial reports for the 2019 fiscal year, showing the cooperative had $138 million in Sales and generated a Net Savings of $5.1 million. In the Annual Board Report, Chairman Erik Peterson informed the members that 2019 was WESTCO’s seventh best year in history and the Board approved Equity Redemption for all members age 70 and older. In total, WESTCO is returning $1.8 million in cash back to members, following the Annual Meeting. General Manager David Briggs, reviewed the seven divisions that serve the members, highlighting many positives for the year, including an eight percent rise in propane volume, a five percent increase in gas volume and the second largest year for fertilizer tons. During a very difficult year, WESTCO’s employees were able to achieve budget and return cash to Members.<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575392474522.jpeg">-David Briggs Presentation: WESTCO President and CEO David Briggs presents the management report during the 78th WESTCO Annual Meeting held Monday night at Alliance High School’s Performing Arts Center. The Board recognized Mark Buskirk who fulfilled his term on the Board. Overall, Buskirk has served on the WESTCO Board of Directors for 21 years, equaling the service that Robert Lawrence provided over the early years of the cooperative. In other business, Erik Peterson and Allan Thorson were re-elected to serve another term, while Scott Schoeneman was elected to join the Board of Directors.&nbsp; The evening concluded with a performance of “The Square” by the Alliance High School one-act team, under the direction of Mrs. Mary Theresa Green. The drama students also helped serve the meal, which was catered by West Side Events Center. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575392506876.jpeg">-Peterson and Buskirk: WESTCO Board Chairman Erik Peterson presents Mark Buskirk with a plaque commemorating Buskirk’s 21 years of service to the WESTCO Board of Directors.

WESTCO holds 78th annual meeting

By KALIN KROHEPanhandle Post A Chadron man has been arrested for third degree domestic assault. On Nov. 27 at approximately 11:22 p.m Chadron police officers were dispatched to the 300 block of Main Street for an alleged domestic assault.&nbsp; While on scene Chadron officers contacted a female victim and other witnesses. Officers also contacted a suspect outside of the residence. Chadron police arrested 23-year-old Tristan Kennicutt of Chadron for third degree domestic assault; a Class IIIA Felony. It was Kennicutt's second offense. Kennicutt was transported to the Dawes County Jail. Bond was set at 10% of $10,000. "A review of Kennicutt’s prior criminal history revealed a prior conviction for domestic assault in 2019 in Perkins County. He was already on transferred probation in Dawes County," said Chadron Police Chief, Tim Lordino.

Chadron man arrested for domestic assault

By Alliance Culture and Leisure Services Department Please take time to review the two options of pillar concept design below. There are two views of concept 2 and two views of concept 3. After reviewing, click on this link:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RX5SJZJ?fbclid=IwAR0MwOBULEgJ9cyNVjSn3uVzaZTtuot8AOwkVl5-CiGtEdFdzoGZ202nrWo" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(56, 88, 152); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RX5SJZJ</a>&nbsp;and choose your favorite concept. Dec. 6 will be the last day to vote. If you have questions, please feel free to call the Culture and Leisure Services Office at 762-2384. CONCEPT 2:<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575340175873.jpeg"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575340186645.jpeg"> Concept 3: <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575340239342.jpeg"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575340252380.jpeg">

Alliance community asked to vote on 'Pillars for the Park' design 

Alliance – The Snow-Redfern Foundation has selected eighty-six (86) non-profit human service organizations across Nebraska to receive grant funds that will address disparities and provide direct support for young people facing various economic, emotional, educational, family and/or other challenges.&nbsp;Those receiving awards, and their corresponding grant focus for 2020, can be found on the Snow-Redfern Foundation Facebook page until the new website (currently being developed) goes live at the end of December. “In the annual review of grant applications, the foundation commits to being wise stewards of the funds that our founder, Arvilla Snow-Redfern, established to provide services to meet the needs, education and/or training of disadvantaged youth”, said Board President Susan Unzicker. Executive Director, Sara Nicholson, stated “Coupled with the need to be wise stewards of funds, we adamantly believe in the potential of all young people and aim to support organizations that create opportunities for them to become thriving adults.”&nbsp;Nicholson took the lead of the foundation in February of 2019, following the retirement of long-time Executive Director, Stan Bills.&nbsp;Bills and Nicholson have teamed up to translate the rich history of the foundation and its roots as the Nebraska Boys Ranch into a relevant model that reaches this generation of young people.&nbsp; Sara further shares, “the first document I read from Arvilla reiterated my decision to join the foundation’s cause. Arvilla was a strong, independent, hard-working visionary that intended to help young people find their way in this world.&nbsp;The forward to her will spoke eloquently of how the foundation should be used as a means of expression of good will.&nbsp;It was a call-out for all of us to ‘help those who need a home, encouragement and training for the time when they (youth) shall be called upon to meet the world as they shall find it”’, said Nicholson.&nbsp;&nbsp; Though the vision and mission drive the grant selection, the process was very arduous this year, due to the presentation of unmet basic needs in many of the applications.&nbsp; “A staggering 29% of grant applications requested this year were to address childhood food insecurity issues, with an additional 20% including food and other basic needs as a component of their request”, said Grant Committee Chairperson, Ellen Lierk. “It quickly became apparent during the grant review that we needed to identify how the foundation could be part of a more comprehensive solution that included the community and addressed the multitude of complexities in new and innovative ways”.&nbsp;&nbsp;Upon the Snow-Redfern Foundation board making the final decision on November 5th to award the 86 grants across the state, a plan was also put into place to begin addressing root causes and to develop funding infrastructure that more adequately addresses outcomes.&nbsp; About the Snow-Redfern FoundationIn 1951, Arvilla Snow-Redfern created a home for orphaned, homeless, neglected and underprivileged youth and believed every young person needed home, encouragement, and training.&nbsp;As the foundation translates her original intent to be relevant in today’s world, the spirit and her vision are closely maintained to ensure the Nebraska Boys Ranch history continues to enrich the culture of the foundation. Though the target population has historically been defined as “at-risk, disadvantaged, or disconnected youth”, Snow-Redfern Foundation emphasizes the importance of using asset-focused language and now refers to the target population as “opportunity youth”.&nbsp;&nbsp; Snow-Redfern Foundation no longer provides direct services, but instead awards grant funds to human-service organizations that aid in achieving a shared goal for young people. This is accomplished through intentional planning, identification, support, and funding of outcome-focused projects and programs that center around assisting young people to develop into thriving adults. 2019/2020 Snow-Redfern Foundation Award Winners:&nbsp; -Girl Scouts of NE-CASA Connections&nbsp;-MentoringWorks-Youth for Christ-Northfield Assembly of God-Homes-NE Family Support Network-Trails West CASA-United Way of Western NE-YWCA Adams County-South West NE Public Health Department-Arts in Motion-Lexington Public School Backpack Program-African Culture Connection-Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries-Dawson County Parent-Child Protective Services Inc-Western Community Health Resources-Panhandle Partnership-Franklin County CASA-Kids Cupboard-Grace Children's Home-CASA of South-Central Nebraska-CASA for York County-Siouxland Human Investment Partnership-The Open Table- Food4Thought-Orphans and Widows of Omaha-TeamMates of Bridgeport-Chadron Community Recreation-Valley Youth Connections&nbsp;-Courteous Kids-Alliance Young Life-Dawson County CASA-Alliance Recreation Center-CASA of Northeast Nebraska--Filmore County CASAYouth &amp; Families for Christ, Inc-Friends of the Bridgeport Public Library-WhyArts-TeamMates of Scotts Bluff County-Carnegie Arts Center INC-Willard Community Center-Alliance Public Schools Alternative Education-Alliance Recreation Center (#2)-Families CARE, Inc-Families 1st Partnership-Collective for Youth-Ancova Empowerment Project-Omaha Conservatory of Music-Panhandle Public Health District-Cool Kids Club-Teen Reach Adventure Camp-Hastings/GI-YWCA of Grand Island-Community Action Partnership of Western Nebraska-Kearney TRAC-Bravehearts Equine&nbsp;-Compass-HopeSpoke-Lexington Public School (2)-Voices for Children in NebraskaSenca CASA-Camp Scott-Nebraska Humanities-Teen Reach Lincoln-Brookside Church-Mystic Rhoads Productions, Inc-Nebraska Children and Families Foundation-Prarie Loft Center-CASA of South-Central Nebraska-Parent to Parent Network-Adams County Diversion-CASA-Carpenter Center-Camp Rock-Mediation West-Todd Becker Foundation-Families Inspiring Families-Choices (#1)-Choices (#2)-Royal Family Kids Camp-Cirrus House, INC (#1)-Cirrus House, INC (#2)-Banister Leadership Academy-The Zone Afterschool Program, LLC&nbsp;-Teen Reach Adventure Camp-Omaha-Plains West CASA-Lexington Public School (#3)-Family Navigation Program-CASA

Snow-Redfern Foundation awards 86 'At-Risk Youth' grants

Alliance - The Alliance Public Library’s Literary Basket Auction is in full swing. Sixty book-themed gift baskets are on the display in the library for silent bidding now through Thursday, December 5th at 5:30 p.m. Baskets of a wide variety and for all ages are available for purchase, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the library and our programming. Bidding numbers are available at the library’s circulation desk. Winners of baskets will be contacted on Friday, December 6th. ﻿All baskets must be picked up no later than 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 10th. Photos of some of the baskets can be found on the Alliance Public Library Facebook page, or stop in to bid during regular library hours.&nbsp;For more information, contact the library at (308)762-1387.

Alliance Public Library literary basket auction 

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage. Box Butte Co: <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575317105234.jpeg" width="388">-Matthew Baldwin, Class 3A Felony, Assault by confined person - no weapon <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575317159682.jpeg" width="401">-Dalton Houck, Class 2A Felony, Burglary, Theft-unlawful taking $5,000 +, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Criminal mischief $1,500 - 4,999, Infraction, Possess marijuana 1 oz or less, Possess or use drug paraphernalia <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575317271308.jpeg" width="404">-Jacob A. Martin, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Carry concealed weapon, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Unlawful acts relating to drugs, Infraction, Possess K2/synthetic 1 oz or less, Possess or use drug paraphernalia -Jacob Magnuson, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Theft-unlawful taking $0-500, Roger D Big Crow, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Drive under suspension before being reinstated by state, Infraction, Possess marijuana 1 oz or less, Possess or use drug paraphernalia-Seth K. Clark, Infraction, Possess marijuana 1 oz or less-Jace A. Moss, Class 3 Misdemeanor, No operator's license/non-waiverable, Unlawful/fictional display or plate/renew tab, Class 2 Misdemeanor, No proof of insurance-Justin R. Van Horn, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Violate deer regulations-Casey L. Rice, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Violate deer regulations-Theodore J. Dickeson, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Issue no-account check-less than $500 Scotts Bluff Co: <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575318457732.jpeg">-Michael Spahr, 3rd degree sexual assault, Sex offender registration <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575318587366.jpeg">-Joshua David Radomski, Possession of controlled substance, Possession with intent to deliver, Use of firearm to commit felony, Child abuse, Possess firearm by prohibited person <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575318703708.jpeg">-Gregory Martinez, Possession of controlled substance, open container <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575318759165.jpeg">DJ Gibbons- Possession of controlled substance <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575318807284.jpeg" width="377">-Carissa Haulman, Possession of controlled substance <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575318873640.jpeg" width="374">-Antonio Sauceda, Possession of controlled substance, Theft of services, False reporting, Ficticious plates, Possess marijuana, No operator's license <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575319056223.jpeg" width="375">-Robert Milutinovich, Unlawful intrusion without consent, Unlawful dist of an inmate image Dawes Co: ﻿-Wayne M True Blood, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Class 3 Misdemeanor, No operators license/non-waiverable, Operate or park unregistered vehicle, Infraction, Fail to stay in lane-Karina Pizano-:arra, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Minor in possession, Infraction, Possess marijuana 1 oz or less, Possess or use drug paraphernalia -Shawne Russell, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Assault 3rd degree, Criminal trespass 1st degree, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peace, Criminal mischief $0-500-Cole R. Meister, Infraction, Possess or use drug paraphernalia-Ian A. Meng, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Attempt of a class 4 felony-Aloysius A. Dreamer, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Fail to appear or comply with citation-Cassandra Fortin, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Fail to appear or comply with citation -Gabriella Peres, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Minor in possession -Matthew Vargas, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Assault 3rd degree-Jacob Brown, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Drive under suspension before being reinstated by the state, Infraction, Careless driving-Omar Ziane, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Fail to appear or comply with citation

Panhandle police activity, Nov. 21 - Dec. 2

LINCOLN&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol were busy throughout Thanksgiving weekend, during the annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign. Troopers worked overtime, responding to multiple winter storms across the state and assisting more than 400 motorists in need of help from Wednesday through Sunday. “Two major snow events that covered much of Nebraska made Thanksgiving travel difficult,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “We’d like to thank the vast majority of drivers who heeded the advice of NSP and NDOT. Adjusting travel plans to avoid the worst conditions undoubtedly prevented dangerous situations.” This weekend marked the annual Thanksgiving “Click It or Ticket” campaign, which included enforcement operations from more than 30 law enforcement agencies across Nebraska. NSP’s operation was made possible thanks in part to a grant for $20,800 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office. During the enforcement effort, troopers arrested 17 people for driving under the influence of alcohol. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (278), driving under suspension (28), open container (8), minor in possession (5), no proof of insurance (12), no seat belt (7), and improper child restraint (4). Troopers also performed 407 motorist assists, responded to 48 crashes, and assisted other agencies with 78 events from Wednesday through Sunday. “As we move through the winter months, drivers should always check 511 before traveling,” said Bolduc. “Our partners at the Department of Transportation deserve tremendous credit for their work this weekend to get Nebraska moving again during back-to-back winter storms.” Motorists should also keep a winter weather survival kit in your vehicle as you travel. Some basic items to include are a First Aid Kit, phone charger, ice scraper, shovel, small bag of sand, flashlight with extra batteries, blankets or sleeping bags, extra clothing and winter accessories, jumper cables, tow rope, tool kit, matches, candles, red flag or bandana, high energy or dehydrated foods, and bottled water.&nbsp;

Troopers assist 400 motorists during snowy Thanksgiving weekend

By JAMES MacPHERSONAssociated Press﻿ Nine members of an extended Idaho family died when their plane crashed in a South Dakota field as they were heading home after a hunting trip. Travis Garza, president of the wellness company Kyani, said in a Facebook post Sunday that the crash near Chamberlain Saturday afternoon killed brothers and founders Jim and Kirk Hansen. Garza said the crash also killed their father, Jim Hansen Sr.; Kirk Hansen’s children, Stockton and Logan; his sons-in-law, Kyle Taylor and Tyson Dennert; and Jim Hansen’s son, Jake, and grandson, Houston. Garza identified the injured as Kirk’s son, Josh, and Jim’s son, Matt, and son-in-law, Thomas Long. All three were hospitalized. The Hansens were executives with Kyani, as well as with Conrad &amp; Bischoff, a petroleum products distributor, and KJ’s Super Stores. East Idaho News, which first identified the victims, reported that the party had been on a hunting trip to South Dakota, one of the nation’s top destinations for pheasants. Brian Wood, owner of a funeral home in Idaho Falls, lamented the deaths on Facebook. He called the Hansens “pillars of our community” and wrote that they had offered many times over the years to help pay expenses for someone who might not be able to afford it. “Our community has a dark cloud over it now,” Wood wrote. “They will never know the many lives they touched.”Twelve people were aboard the Pilatus PC-12 bound for Idaho Falls when it crashed within a mile after takeoff in Chamberlain about 12:30 p.m. Saturday, National Transportation Safety Board spokesman Peter Knudson said.Federal investigators — one from Washington, D.C. and two from the Chicago area — likely would reach the crash site on Monday, Knudson said. Local authorities were guarding the site on Sunday. Chamberlain and parts of South Dakota were under a winter storm warning Saturday and Brule County emergency manager Katheryn Benton said planes were unable to land at Chamberlain at the time of the crash. Weather will be among several factors investigators will review, although no cause for the crash has been determined, Knudson said.

South Dakota airplane crash kills 9 in extended family

GILLETTE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming court officials have sentenced a man four to eight years in prison after he spent more than $230,000 belonging to a rancher he considered family. The Gillette News Record reported Wednesday that 52-year-old Harvey Bethea pleaded guilty in August to exploitation of a vulnerable adult. Officials say Bethea was also sentenced Tuesday to 10 years of probation, fined more than $3,000 and required to pay back the money. Authorities say Bethea spent $231,255 belonging to Donny York, who is in his 80s. Authorities say Bethea was accused of using the money to pay for livestock never purchased, a laptop, medical bills and a fur coat between April 2016 and April 2017. His attorney Nick Carter asked for probation saying Bethea has health issues and no criminal record.

Man sentenced to prison for taking $231K from older rancher

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Officials with the Nebraska State Patrol are warning against travel in the state’s Panhandle region, where strong winds and snow are creating blizzard-like conditions. A long stretch of Interstate 80 was closed in both directions from the Wyoming state line for about 100 miles. Wind-whipped snow made the roadways virtually impassable. Several other roads and highways also were shut down in western Nebraska. Some parts of western Nebraska were expected to get up to 8 inches of snow, made worse by wind gusts of up to 60 mph.

Blowing snow causing problems on Nebraska roadways

By KALIN KROHEPanhandle Post On Nov. 30 the City of Alliance experienced a power outage. UPDATE: As of 7:15 p.m. all power has been restored to Alliance. The outage started approximately between 3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m throughout various parts of Alliance. "The latest issues are due to a 'galloping' electrical line along 10th street," said Jeff Sprock, Alliance City Manager. "They are troubleshooting the issue and as soon as they can identify whats going on they'll get it back up and going." Sprock said there are also outages in various places along rural lines. Blowing high winds and ice on lines are one of the major causes of the power outages.

City of Alliance experiencing power outage 

By Chris O. FordDistrict Operations ManagerNDOT – District 5 – Gering 9 a.m. UPDATE Dec. 1: We are going to open the following highways:&nbsp;I-80 is now open both directions from Wyoming to IowaHwy 19 is openHwy 92 is openHwy 250 is openHwy 27 is openHwy 2 is ipenHwy 87 is openHwy 20 is open from Crawford east&nbsp;Still closed in the panhandle is:Hwy 71 from Colorado to South DakotaHwy 30 from Wyoming to Big SpringsHwy 20 from Wyoming to HarrisonHwy 29 Mitchell to HarrisonHwy 88 from Bridgeport to Wyoming I-80 Open to eastbound traffic only - from Sidney east.All of highway 26 is open.All of highway 385 is open.L62A is open&nbsp;We are working on opening drifts and removing stranded vehicles.&nbsp;Once that is accomplished we will open more segments.&nbsp;All roadways have some ice pack – but it has been treated with deicing chemicals. 3:30 p.m. UPDATE: Due to blizzard conditions we are closing&nbsp;ALL HIGHWAYS IN THE PANHANDLE OF NEBRASKA.&nbsp;&nbsp;The winds are blowing 40 to 60 mph causing zero visibility at times.&nbsp;&nbsp;DO NOT TRAVEL!&nbsp;We do not anticipate opening these roads until mid-morning tomorrow.&nbsp;Please advise people to stay home. As of 11:30 am the following roads are&nbsp;CLOSED&nbsp;in the Nebraska Panhandle:&nbsp;-I-80 from Big Springs to the Wyoming line -Hwy 30 from Big Springs (Hwy 138 jct.) to the Wyoming line -Hwy 88 from Bridgeport to the Wyoming line -Hwy 71 from Kimball to Scottsbluff -Hwy 71 from Scottsbluff to the Jct. of Hwy 2 (Lawn Church) -Hwy 385 from Bridgeport to Sidney -Hwy 20 from Harrison to the Wyoming line -Hwy 29 from Mitchell to Harrison

Road closures throughout panhandle

NWS blizzard update 

By Jane DaileyCity of Crawford, Clerk Pursuant to the forecast Weather Advisory, a Snow Emergency has been declared for the City of Crawford for a period spanning from Friday midnight, once accumulations reach 3 inches, through noon Sunday. ﻿&nbsp;In reference to City Ordinances , a snow emergency means that motor vehicles, boats, trailers etc.&nbsp;CANNOT be parked on the street during the indicated time period along the posted emergency snow routes. Any Motor vehicles, boats, trailers etc. that are left unattended on these routes may be towed per Crawford City Ordinance at the registered owner’s expense as per Nebraska State Law.&nbsp;Efforts will be made to not tow vehicles during normal business hours, unless the predominate weather dictates such actions.

Crawford declares snow emergency

Alliance – The City of Alliance has experienced a major winter storm and is currently under a blizzard warning. City of Alliance crews have been working to clear snow throughout the community. Citizens are encouraged to take caution as they travel around the town and travel outside of the City is not recommended. The Alliance Airport opened at 6 a.m this morning. Airport Director Lynn Placek stated, “One flight has already arrived and the airport is operating as planned. As long as conditions hold we expect the flights go out today”. Flights for Sunday are anticipated to go out on time, but weather condition could change that. For more information on flights please call Denver Air Connection at (866) 373-8513. As of 7:15 a.m. all emergency snow routes have been plowed. “Public Works employees are monitoring conditions and will be back out moving snow as needed,” said Public Works Director, Ross Grant. According to the Alliance Police Department there is a significant amount of ice under snow causing slick conditions throughout the community and side streets are snow packed. The Police Department expects drifting snow throughout the community as the wind picks up later today. Culture and Leisure Department staff were out early this morning clearing sidewalks and paths. According to Culture and leisure director Shana Brown, “Downtown sidewalks are cleared and they are currently working on getting City buildings opened”. ﻿The library will be open at 10 a.m. and the Museum is planning a late start at 1 p.m. for the 17th Annual Christmas Tree &amp; Wreath Festival. However, if the wind picks up and drifting becomes significant the museum will not open. Due to the freezing rain last night some power lines are covered in ice. With expected wind gusts above 60 miles per hour coming later today outages could occur, especially on rural lines. If you are a city of Alliance customer and experience an outage please call the Communication Center at (308) 762-4955. “This winter storm has challenged many in our community and we are grateful to serve you and your families. During this holiday weekend I am especially thankful for the diligence and commitment of City staff,” said Alliance City Manager, Jeff Sprock.

Alliance City Manager: 'Winter storm has challenged many in our community.'

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1575130696290.png" width="483">NSP Photo (GRAND ISLAND, NEB.)&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested two people and seized nearly 190 pounds of marijuana during traffic stops on Wednesday and Thursday on Interstate 80 and Interstate 76. Wednesday evening at approximately 8:30 p.m. CT, a trooper observed an eastbound Chevrolet Tahoe following another vehicle too closely on Interstate 80 at mile marker 297 near Wood River. During the traffic stop, an NSP K9 detected the presence of a controlled substance in the vehicle. Troopers searched the vehicle and discovered 169 pounds of marijuana. The driver, Khamla Bongxay, 31, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, and no drug tax stamp. He was lodged in Hall County Jail. Thursday morning at approximately 10:45 a.m.MT, a trooper observed an eastbound Infinity Q50 speeding at mile marker 2 on Interstate 76. During the traffic stop, the trooper detected criminal activity and performed a search of the vehicle. During the search, troopers found 20 pounds of marijuana, THC edibles, and a handgun. The driver, Jimmy Fabian, 26, of Madison, Wisconsin, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, possession of a firearm during a felony drug offense, and no drug tax stamp. He was lodged in Cheyenne County Jail.

Troopers seize marijuana, handgun in traffic stops

By George LedbetterCSC&nbsp;CHADRON – Virtual Reality (VR), the technology that allows a person to figuratively step into and explore a computer created three-dimensional world that can feel completely real, has made its debut in the King Library Learning Commons at Chadron State College. CSC’s first venture into VR has both educational and recreational value for students, and is one of several efforts underway at the library’s tutoring center to provide innovative educational opportunities for students, said Tom Tylee, Director of the Office of Academic Success. The suite of technology applications available at the tutoring center and the Richards Media Lab includes digital systems for producing music and graphic design work, an internet-connected, touchscreen smart board for group work, and a small studio that can be used for live video interactions with online students or to create instructional videos for classes. Among the new technologies, VR seems to be the most popular so far, according to Tylee. “I think everybody who has come in and tried it is pretty wowed by the experience, because it’s so immersive,” he said. The VR experience begins with donning a headset that projects images in front of the user’s eyes and sounds into the ears. The images change as the user moves in the environment created by the program. A pair of gloves allow manipulation of virtual objects the user encounters. A large screen on the wall of the VR room lets others view in two dimensions what the user is seeing in 3D. CSC sophomore education major Mackenzie Helm tried the VR set for the first time recently as part of an assignment for a technology in learning class. Helm first tested a program that transported her to Devil’s Tower and Mammoth Hot Springs in Wyoming, places she has visited in person. “It was really cool. I got to go to places I knew and see them in a prettier time than winter,” she said.With VR, Helm experienced the view from the top of the iconic rock formation. “I felt like I was standing on it,” she said. Using a program designed for anatomy instruction, Helm then viewed a human body from different angles, and tried separating individual parts for closer inspection. Another program took her onto a wooden plank extending directly out from the top of a skyscraper, a dizzying experience that ended when she fell to the pavement below. She also tried a less fear-inducing program that made her a superhero firefighter flying around a city extinguishing blazes.The college has both educational and entertainment VR programs, said Tylee. One history-related program takes the user along on a WWII bombing raid over Germany, using film recorded by a BBC reporter during an actual raid, he said. Another program lets the user tour the Anne Frank house while hearing excerpts from her famous diary. The library’s collection includes many applications for history and art, especially visits to art museums, Tylee said. Some CSC instructors have already taken advantage of VR’s capabilities for immersive instruction, according to Tylee. A physiology class had students tour a haunted house and measured vital signs to study stress response, he said, and a class on gender studies used a science fiction program to give students the experience of being an African-American woman. Helm said she could see VR’s potential in her future teaching career. “There’s a lot of benefit, like getting to go places (students) may not be able to go,” she said. “It’s like you get to go across the world.” The tutoring center’s group study workstation has more distinctly educational applications, with an interactive format that makes it a good resource for instructors and tutors, according to Tylee. An anatomy program, for example, gives a detailed view of a human cadaver that groups of students can study together. “You can rotate around (the image) and select different parts of the body. It gives you information about it, some of the diseases that would affect it, and how to pronounce (the scientific name),” Tylee said. The workstation’s interactive capabilities, which allow both parties to write on the whiteboard screen, are particularly useful for tutors working with online students, Tylee noted. In setting up the small video production studio in the library, Tylee said his primary aim was to improve the online tutoring experience. A high quality microphone, sound dampening panels in the room, good lighting, and a green screen that creates a neutral background for the instructor serve to reduce distractions during the live-streamed learning sessions conducted via the Zoom teleconferencing application, he said. “We want the technology to just disappear. We want the exact same experience (for online students) as though you are sitting face-to-face across from another person,” Tylee said. The studio can also function as a quiet testing room, for creating instructional videos, or by students for online job interviews, said Tylee. Rapid developments in technology, many spurred by the popularity of online gaming, can make it difficult to keep up with the latest equipment, Tylee acknowledged. “It’s being able to find that balance of usability, keeping up with the technology, but not spending thousands of dollars,” he said. The aim isn’t just to have the latest equipment, though, and Tylee said he wants to develop flexible spaces in the library that have multiple uses, contribute to educational goals and aren’t just focused on electronic devices. “It’s nice when you are not just doing it for the sake of using technology; that the technology is contributing something that you would otherwise not be able to do,” he said. “That’s why I love VR. You can fly around with a jet pack, jump off a plank and be just fine, or be scared out of your wits in a haunted house and still be in the library.”

Virtual Reality offers education benefits, recreation opportunities for CSC students

By CSC College Relations CHADRON — The District 12 National FFA Organization Leadership Contest was Nov. 20 at Chadron State College. Students from 16 Nebraska high schools competed for a chance to qualify for the 92nd Nebraska FFA State Convention in Lincoln in April 2020. First and second place winners in each event category qualified for the Nebraska state competition. Hadleigh Hoos of Gordon-Rushville won the Creed Speaking contest and Makenzie Liakos of Bridgeport placed second. In the Junior Public Speaking contest, Rasine Bolek of Alliance won, while Julia Wilson, also of Alliance, finished second. Kathryn Blankenship of Banner County secured first placed in the Senior Public Speaking contest, while Brionna Schafer of Alliance punched a ticket to state with her second place finish. In the Cooperative Speaking contest, Skylar Edmund of Sioux County claimed first, and Kara Barnhart of Garden County earned second place. Julie Skavdahl of Sioux County and Emily Knote of Hemingford competed in the Natural Resources Speaking Contest earning first and second, respectively. Cambrea Vogel of Crawford won the Extemporaneous Speaking contest and Patrick Hansen of Creek Valley finished second. Shanna Jo Weaver of Alliance won Employment Skills and Ana Manning of Potter-Dix placed second. In the Ag Demonstration contest, the team of Alliance B was first and the Alliance A team finished in second. Garden County won Conduct of Chapter Meetings and Gordon Rushville was second. Scottsbluff won Parliamentary Procedure and Morrill A earned second place.

CSC hosts District 12 FFA competition; results

Dangerous winter storm likely throughout panhandle 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific wants a court to invalidate an 1872 pact requiring it to keep a certain number of jobs in an East Texas town indefinitely. The agreement with the town of Palestine, which has been amended several times over the decades, is a vestige of railroad history that was made by one of the railroads Union Pacific bought years ago. The lawsuit challenging the agreement was filed Wednesday in Texas. The railroad argues the local agreement is invalid because railroads are regulated by the federal government, and this deal requiring jobs be maintained in Palestine improperly limits its options. City Manager Leslie Cloer says she hasn’t seen the lawsuit and couldn’t comment on it directly, but she hopes Union Pacific will maintain its operations in Palestine. “We would love to keep them here,” Cloer said. “We have had a longstanding relationship with Union Pacific.” The agreement between the city and Union Pacific requires the Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad to keep 0.52% of its total jobs in Palestine, Cloer said. Union Pacific today operates roughly 32,000 miles of track in 23 western states. In recent years, the railroad has been working to streamline its operations and improve efficiency. Union Pacific had an average of 36,659 employees as of its last earnings report, which is 13% lower than it had a year earlier. Railroad spokeswoman Raquel Espinoza said the agreement is limiting Union Pacific’s flexibility with its freight car repair shop in Palestine. “Union Pacific is improving operations to meet customer needs. The agreement keeps us from implementing modern railroad practices in Palestine, Texas,” Espinoza said. The Palestine deal dates back to the days when the city was at the crossroads of the International Railroad and the Houston and Great Northern Railroad. Palestine grew with the railroads and steam locomotives and coaches were repaired there. In 1872, the railroads promised to keep operations in Palestine forever. Those railroads later became part of the Missouri Pacific railroad that was bought by Union Pacific in 1997. Union Pacific argues in its lawsuit that the railroad pact with Palestine should have been invalidated any number of times over the years, including when the Missouri Pacific merged with other railroads in the 1970s and when the federal Surface Transportation Board was given the power to regulate railroads. The railroad says that past court rulings that dealt with this Palestine agreement were based on outdated standards.