Dr. Caroline Winchester, Chadron Public Schools Superintendent,&nbsp;was recognized with the Excellence in Education Award by Cognia during the 2019 Midwest Region Fall Conference in Chicago, Illinois on Oct. 30.&nbsp;Cognia is a non-profit, continuous improvement organization that conducts rigorous, on-site reviews of a variety of educational institutions and provides resources, tools and support to education leaders across the globe to ensure all learners realize their full potential. Nominations for this award were received from a variety of sources including volunteers, Engagement Review team members, Lead Evaluators, Field Consultants, Cognia Advisory Committee members, and staff. “Caroline has demonstrated herself as a strong, goal-focused servant leader as she has led Chadron Public Schools over nine years of her 36 years in education.” commented&nbsp;Shannon Vogler, Cognia Regional Director. Under her leadership she has led the district through difficult financial times, the implementation of a district wide MTSS model, the adoption and implementation of the Danielson Framework for Teaching, and nearly two cycles of regional Systems Accreditation through Cognia, formerly AdvancEd. Her reflective, inclusive, collaborative and transparent leadership has served as an example of exceptional leadership to the administrative team (The A-Team) and to the entire Chadron Public Schools staff.&nbsp;The Chadron administrative team shared, “We recognize the importance of the vision of Chadron Public Schools - Infinite Education, Infinite Possibilities, and Opportunities for All - because it reminds us of the important work that we do every day. We appreciate her experienced guidance as we strive to meet this ideal by serving our students with passion, compassion and equity. We also appreciate her trust in us as professionals, which she demonstrates through a collaborative decision making process and by allowing us the autonomy to run the day-to-day operations of our schools.&nbsp;As Dr. Winchester prepares to retire from public education, we are excited to celebrate this special recognition from Cognia with her. On behalf of the teachers, support staff and students of Chadron Public Schools, the A-Team would like to congratulate and thank Dr. Caroline Winchester for her record of outstanding service and exemplary leadership.”&nbsp;

Chadron's Dr. Caroline Winchester receives 2019 education award

KIMBALL, Neb. (AP) — A March trial has been scheduled for a western Nebraska man accused of intentional child abuse in the death of his 7-month-old daughter. Kimball County District Court records say 24-year-old Alexander Romero has pleaded not guilty. His trial is set to begin March 2. The records say the Kimball man gave police&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/19d6b1050d124d8ea457cb2c16ea916a" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(28, 167, 218);">two versions</a>&nbsp;of what happened to his daughter in March this year. In one he said she was injured when she fell off a futon. In the second he said he'd been "playfully running" with her when he tripped and fell. He told officers he placed her on the futon when he went to find his phone. He says she then fell. The records say doctors who examined the girl say her injuries could not have been caused by an accidental fall.

March trial set for panhandle man accused in death of infant daughter

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565103625207.jpeg" width="256">Photo courtesy: <a href="www.canstockphoto.com" target="_blank">www.canstockphoto.com</a> Click <a href="https://www.panhandlepost.com/category/obituaries/" 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" target="_blank">kcowradio@gmail.com</a>

Recent obituaries

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181683904.jpeg" width="417">By KALIN KROHEPanhandle Post Roller Hardware has been a downtown staple in Alliance for many years.The current and longtime owners of the business recently moved into the old Shopko building on Flack Avenue. The business name has also changed to "Carter's Home, Hardware, Appliance." The business had an official opening in the new location on Nov. 8. "We're really excited about making our business bigger," said Carter's owner, Lisa Carter. "It was an opportunity that came to us so we decided...what the heck. We're very excited about expanding our business and providing some lines in our store that we've never had before. It's kinda like Christmas for us." "It's going to be incredible because I'm finally going to get to put stuff that I've always wanted to put in, but I didn't want to leave buried in a corner somewhere," said Carter's owner, Greg Carter. Greg and Lisa said their housewares department, home decor, and much more will have a big expansion. When it comes to relocating a business and expanding there's a lot of challenges. "The floors have been the most challenging of all. That's a big store." said Greg. The building dates back to 1975.<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181655790.jpeg" width="440"> Lisa said another challenge was getting the official announcement out about the business change. "It was hard because a lot of people were talking about us. We wanted to keep it kinda under wraps because we had a lot of official stuff we needed to get done. Pretty soon you just get that excitement in you and you do want to tell people. You pull certain people aside and say, 'Yes, it's true'. Whats neat about it is the excitement in the town and just the support we've had," Lisa added. Lisa said it was a seven plus day operation getting everything moved into the new store. "It has been pretty stressful on both of us. A lot more than we anticipated." Lisa said. "Each day is a new day, and brings different stuff everyday." Greg and Lisa hired some extra help with getting everything ready and moved into the new location. "Praise the Lord for the three men that we hired because without those guys I wouldn't be here today. When I fell off the ladder I realized that I needed more help." said Greg. Carter's business will now fill a lot of holes in the City of Alliance after the closing of Shopko and Kmart over the last year. "That was my goal from the time that Shopko announced that they weren't going to stay. I wanted to fill those spots mostly because I love my little town," said Greg. "I grew up here, I was born here, I was raised here. I left for a few years and all that did was make me appreciate it more. I discovered that I was going to have to go out of town to buy underwear and so many things. It was almost a mission at that point to figure out how to do it." <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181671302.jpeg" width="461">

Alliance staple business moves into bigger store 

By CSC College Relations CHADRON – Sarah Green will give a public reading Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center Chicoine Atrium on the campus of Chadron State College. The reading, which is free and open to the public, is part of Chadron State College’s Distinguished Writer Series sponsored by the English and Humanities program. Green is the author of “Earth Science” and “Skeleton Evenings.” A Pushcart Prize winner, she has been honored by inclusion in Best New Poets and by fellowships from the Vermont Studio Center and Sewanee Writers’ Conference. She is the editor of an anthology, “Welcome to the Neighborhood,” forthcoming January 2020 from Ohio University Press. She is currently at work on her second full-length collection of poetry and is an Assistant Professor of English at St. Cloud State. Green is the seventh writer to read for the Distinguished Writer Series since 2016. Previous writers include Kent Meyers, Karen Gettert Shoemaker, Frank X Walker, Markus Jones, Brad Aaron Modlin, and Ken Ilgunas.

Green will read at CSC Thursday

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (AP) — Human remains discovered in a Nebraska stock trailer appear to be from one of two Wisconsin brothers who were fatally shot by a Missouri farmer, authorities said Monday. The Lincoln County sheriff’s office in North Platte, Nebraska, announced that a local rancher found the remains mixed with dirt in a plastic tub inside the trailer. “We believe it probably is one of the brothers,” said Roland Kramer, the department’s chief deputy. The rancher had just bought the trailer through an online ad from a seller in Missouri, Kramer said. He added that Lincoln County officials seized the trailer for possible use as evidence and would work with Missouri authorities as requested. Garland Nelson, 25, of Braymer, Missouri, is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d979d903133f475f941d1be6a8ce5fe3" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(28, 167, 218);">accused of fatally shooting</a>&nbsp;35-year-old Nick Diemel and 24-year-old Justin Diemel, of Shawano County, Wisconsin, then burning their bodies and dumping them in a manure pile. Jack Diemel, the brothers’ father, said the two had traveled to Nelson’s farm to collect on a $250,000 debt, according to court records. The father reported his sons missing July 21 after they failed to show up for a flight home to Milwaukee and did not answer their phones. According to a probable cause statement, Nelson shot the brothers, put their bodies in 55-gallon barrels and used a skid loader to move them one at a time from a barn to a pasture. There, he allegedly burned them using diesel fuel and an unknown liquid. Nelson told investigators he then dumped the remains on a manure pile and hid the barrels elsewhere on his property, about 70 miles (110 kilometers) northeast of Kansas City, Missouri.

Remains found in western NE linked to Missouri killings

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574117004531.jpeg"><h2 class="ql-align-center">News items on the sale bills below will be added daily through Nov. 20. </h2><h1 class="ql-align-center"> </h1><h1 class="ql-align-center"> </h1><h1 class="ql-align-center">9 a.m.</h1><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574195181074.png"> <h1 class="ql-align-center">10 a.m. </h1><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574195203157.png"> <h1 class="ql-align-center">11 a.m. </h1><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574195222222.png"> <h1 class="ql-align-center">12 noon</h1><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574195273764.png"> <h1 class="ql-align-center">1 p.m.</h1><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574195248711.png"> <h1 class="ql-align-center">2 p.m. </h1><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574195297719.png"> <h1 class="ql-align-center">3 p.m.</h1><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574195309005.png"> <h1 class="ql-align-center">4 p.m. </h1><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574195322406.png"> <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574117004531.jpeg">

Eagle Radio holiday auction sale bill 

LINCOLN, Neb. – The following is a listing of Nebraska Game and Parks Commission events and important dates in December. Get more event details at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov. Visit OutdoorNebraska.org for a list of hunter education classes and boating safety classes. Dec. 1 – Bobcat hunting and trapping season opens Dec. 1 – Enchant, Ash Hollow State Historical Park (SHP), Lewellen Dec. 1-31 – Muzzleloader deer hunting season Dec. 1-Jan. 15, 2020 – Antlerless elk hunting season Dec. 3 – Learn to Hunt Predators Workshop, Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center, Lincoln Dec. 4-8 – Pearl Harbor Exhibit, Fort Atkinson SHP, Fort Calhoun Dec. 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 – Christmas at the Codys’, Buffalo Bill Ranch SHP, North Platte Dec. 7 – Kids Christmas Bird Count, Lake Minatare State Recreation Area (SRA), Minatare Dec. 7 – Historical Christmas Dinner, Fort Robinson State Park (SP), Crawford Dec. 7-8 – DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) antlerless muzzleloader deer season Dec. 7-31 – Light Up the Fort, Fort Robinson SP, Crawford Dec. 7, 14, 21 – Christmas in the Woods, Ponca SP, Ponca Dec. 8 – White-fronted goose hunting season, first segment closes Dec. 14 – Nature’s Gifts: Decorations from the Great Outdoors, Wildcat Hills SRA, Gering Dec. 14 – Classic Christmas, Eugene T. Mahoney SP, Ashland Dec. 14-22 – Boyer Chute NWR antlerless deer hunting Dec. 15 – Crow hunting season, first segment ends Dec. 16 – Snipe hunting season closes Dec. 17 – Duck and coot hunting season closes in zones 2 and 4 Dec. 18 – Christmas Bird Count, Ponca SP, Ponca Dec. 21 – Yule Log Festival, Platte River SP, Louisville Dec. 22 – Bighorn sheep hunting season closes Dec. 24 – Duck and coot hunting season closes in Zone 1 Dec. 25 – Light goose hunting season, first segment closes Dec. 28 – 8th Annual Winterfest, Ponca SP, Ponca Dec. 31 – Archery antelope hunting season closes Dec. 31 – Archery deer and Whitetail Statewide Buck hunting seasons close Dec. 31 – Underwater spearfishing season closes Dec. 31 – Archery fishing for game fish closes

Nebraska December outdoor calendar

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — A search continues for a boy missing in central Wyoming. Authorities said Friday they’ve now covered almost 230 square miles (590 square kilometers) in their search for 16-year-old Joseph “Joey” Peterson. Peterson walked away from his family’s home in southeastern Natrona County on Sunday. Sheriff’s officials began looking for him soon after. Searchers are using helicopters, drones, dogs, night vision and heat-sensing technology. They plan to keep looking as much as possible before the weather worsens. Peterson has high-functioning autism and is not self-sufficient. He was wearing a red, hooded sweatshirt and pajama pants. Temperatures have dipped well below freezing and snow has fallen since Peterson went missing. Peterson has blond hair; is 5 feet, 9 inches (175 centimeters) tall; and weighs 120 pounds (54 kilograms).

Search for missing Wyoming boy continues

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574093300198.jpeg" width="489" style="">-Chadron State College student Rachel Mitchell, left, and CSC English faculty member Dr. Mary Clai Jones pose with Mitchell's research poster at the North American Victorian Studies Association in Columbus, Ohio Oct 19, 2019. (Courtesy photo) By George LedbetterChadron State College&nbsp;CHADRON – Contrary to some modern interpretations, the relationship between Sherlock Holmes and John Watson, the famous fictional detectives created by Victorian author Arthur Conan Doyle, didn’t have homosexual overtones, and might better be labeled as a bromance. That’s the thesis that landed Chadron State College senior English major Rachel Mitchell the opportunity for a poster presentation at the prestigious North American Victorian Studies Association Conference in Columbus, Ohio, last month. “My research went into how contemporary media changed the relationship that John Watson and Sherlock Holmes had, saying ‘Oh, they are a homosexual couple.’ I was looking at it more as a homo-social relationship,” said Mitchell of Riverton, Wyoming. Mitchell was one of just 19 undergraduates invited to attend the annual conference, which attracts experts in Victorian studies from colleges and universities across the country. CSC English faculty Dr. Kimberly Cox and Dr. Mary Clai Jones were also invited presenters at the conference. In a panel discussion about representations of sexual violence in Victorian literature, Cox spoke of her research on how novelists of the period used uninvited grabbing of female character’s hands to represent the threat of rape. Jones took part in a roundtable discussion about female fantasy writers of the 1890s and 1920s that focused on a recently published book that includes a chapter of her research about writer Marie Corelli. A Sherlock Holmes and mystery story fan from the time she was young, Mitchell had a significant amount of research to back up her presentation. In addition to close readings of all of Doyle’s stories, a college-sponsored trip to the Lilly Library Collection at Indiana University last spring gave her the opportunity to examine the first Sherlock Holmes mysteries as they were originally published, as well as letters and papers from Doyle. “I had a lot of original illustrations that Doyle worked on,” she said. “He actually had his dad illustrate ‘Sign of the Four,’ the second Holmes story.” The tendency of some modern reworkings of Doyle’s tales to make a homosexual relationship out of the friendship between the brilliant, but eccentric, detective and the military veteran doctor stems from an uneasiness with male-male friendships in contemporary culture, Mitchell said. “There is maybe a stigma around men having friendships in a more serious context,” she said. “In comedy and fantasy fiction it’s completely acceptable, but when we go into a dramatic realm, we are uneasy. The stigma around just having regular bromances is what I used in my paper.” Mitchell said she was grateful for the opportunity to show her work to respected experts in Victorian studies and pleased with the responses she received. “People were really open to my ideas,” she said. “They were all really positive about my work and said to continue my research.” Attending the conference also provided opportunities for Mitchell to connect with professionals in various fields of literature and academic publishing, said Cox, who nominated her for inclusion on the program. “It’s an opportunity for networking and professionalization on a national scale,” she said. The experience will have long-term benefits for Mitchell, who plans to eventually earn a Ph.D. in Native American Literature and would like to teach at a university. “Attending a premier national conference as an undergraduate gave her the chance to see how her future field of study will impact students, publishing and other scholars,” Jones said. Attending academic conferences like this also has value for faculty members, and the other students they teach, Cox and Jones agreed. “I met a number of academic publishers who offer distance internships that are open to students,” Cox said. “For our literature majors such an internship while an undergraduate would help build their professional futures.” Meeting professors and other professionals in the humanities field was an inspiring part of attending the conference, said Mitchell, whose ambitions include writing her own creative pieces. “People who do humanities want to help others and see people succeed,” she said. “The big community that is out there, that is what I took away.”

CSC student analyzes Sherlock and Watson for prestigious conference

GERING, Neb. (AP) — A western Nebraska man has been charged with assault after shooting and wounding his 39-year-old son during an argument. The Scottsbluff Star-Herald reports that prosecutors charged 67-year-old Eldon Anthony with first-degree assault and using a firearm in connection with the Nov. 11 incident. Police were called to Anthony’s home in Gering Monday evening after the shooting. Investigators say Anthony told police he feared for his life when he shot his son because the younger man had charged at him with a broken beer bottle. Phillip Anthony sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and was taken to a local hospital for surgery. His current condition isn’t known because he isn’t listed as a patient at the hospital. Eldon Anthony has been released on $2,000 bond. Online court records don’t list an attorney for him.

Western Nebraska man charged with shooting his son

DUNNING, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say firefighters have completely contained a fire that blackened just under 604 acres (244.4 hectares) in the Nebraska National Forest, west of Dunning. A National Forest Service says no one was injured fighting the blaze Sunday. Firefighters from several area departments joined the battle, including units from Anselmo, Brewster, Dunning, Mullen, Stapleton and Thedford. The service says the fire cause is being investigated but is believed to have been accidentally caused by a person.The National Weather Service says the fire danger is very high in the southern Sandhills and parts of western and southwest Nebraska.

Sandhills forest fire blackens just under 604 acres

By: Panhandle Post The Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's Office reports that a 17-year-old Hemingford boy died in a single vehicle accident, early Saturday morning,&nbsp;north of Scottsbluff.&nbsp;&nbsp; According to a media release from Sheriff Mark Overman,&nbsp;the Scotts Bluff County Communications Center received a report of a vehicle “parked in a field” west of Highway 71 between Lake Minatare Road and Experiment Farm Road.&nbsp;Another caller reported the vehicle “may have been in a rollover accident.”&nbsp;The responding Deputy located a severely damaged vehicle&nbsp;in a field on the west side of the roadway.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Deputy located a young male later identified as 17 year old Daniel McDonough&nbsp;of Hemingford&nbsp;on the ground in close proximity to the vehicle.&nbsp;Two males were on scene and had&nbsp;stopped to render aid but did not witness the accident.&nbsp;McDonough was alive, but had serious head injuries and was also suffering from hypothermia. Valley Ambulance transported him to Regional West Medical Center where he died of his injuries. Sheriff Overman said Investigation revealed that the vehicle was traveling northbound on Highway 71 between Lake Minatare Road and Experiment Farm Road when the driver lost control due to an unknown causes, causing the vehicle to slide sideways,&nbsp;running off the road where it rolled several times, ejecting the unrestrained driver and sole occupant. The media release goes on to say, Investigation&nbsp;revealed that Daniel McDonough had stolen the vehicle from his brother’s girlfriend in Hemingford&nbsp;several hours earlier. Daniel’s brother and his girlfriend were not aware that the vehicle was missing until this incident occurred, and the Alliance Police Department contacted the registered owner.&nbsp;Daniel’s brother stated that Daniel did not have a driver’s license and did not know how to drive. Daniel was last seen at his brother’s residence at approximately midnight. Daniel’s brother stated that Daniel may have taken the car without permission to drive to Walmart in Scottsbluff to purchase air-time for his phone.&nbsp;Sheriff’s Investigators confirmed that store surveillance footage showed McDonough purchase a phone card at 3:08 a.m. Saturday morning&nbsp;and video then shows him leaving the store in the stolen vehicle.&nbsp; No drug or alcohol involvement is suspected in this case and no autopsy is planned.&nbsp;

Hemingford boy dies in early morning accident Saturday

Chadron Police Department Press Release On Friday November 15 th , 2019 at approximately 1500 hours, Officers with the Chadron Police Department were dispatched to Walmart in regards to a shoplifter. During the investigation Officers identified and arrested 23 year old Andrew Russell for Shoplifting. During the arrest of Russell, Officers located three different baggies of a white crystal substance on his person and what is believed to be brass knuckles. Officers suspected the white crystal substance to be methamphetamine. Officers did a field test on the suspected methamphetamines and received apositive response for the presence of methamphetamines. As a result of this and statements made by Russell, Officers obtained a search warrant for Russell’s residence. A subsequent search of that residence yielded multiple items of drug paraphernalia and other drug related items. As a result of this search 29 year old Ashley Hull, who was present at the time of the search was also arrested for items located during the search and on a Box Butte County warrant. Russell and Hull were both transported to the Dawes County Jail for booking. Russell was charged with: Shoplifting; Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute (Class II Felony); Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Possession of a Deadly Weapon by a Prohibited Person (Class III Felony). Bond was set at 10% of $50,000. Hull was booked in for her warrant and also with the fresh charges of Possession methamphetamines (Class IV Felony) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was set at 10% of $10,000 for the new charges. The Chadron Police Department was assisted with personnel from the Nebraska State Patrol and the Nebraska State Probation Office in Chadron.

Chadron PD arrest two in shoplifting and felony drug charges

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) — A South Dakota academic has been named as the newest president of Western Nebraska Community College in Scottsbluff. The Scottsbluff Star-Herald reports that the Western Community College Area Board of Governors announced the hire of Carmen Simone late Thursday evening. Simone is the current and founding vice president and dean at the University of South Dakota Community College for Sioux Falls. She also is a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission, one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. Prior to her position in South Dakota, Simone served as president of Trinidad State Junior College in Colorado for five years. The board is slated to ratify Simone’s selection at a meeting Wednesday. She will assume office in January, succeeding interim president John Harms.

South Dakota academic named new Nebraska college president

Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's Office release At 4:54 p.m. on Wednesday, November 13, the communications center received notification of an injury accident at the intersection of Highway 92 and County Road 5.&nbsp; Investigation revealed that a northbound vehicle driven by Spencer Bush, age 26 of rural Morrill was northbound on County Road 5 and violated the stop sign, causing a collision with a westbound vehicle driven by Joseph English, age 28, of rural Lyman.&nbsp;Both drivers were transported to Regional West Medical Center, one by Valley Ambulance and the other by the Lyman Volunteer Fire Department Rescue Unit.&nbsp;Their condition is unknown but none of the injuries appeared serious or life threatening. Spencer Bush was cited for both a stop sign and seat belt violation.&nbsp; The Sheriff’s Office, Lyman PD, Morrill PD, Lyman Volunteer Fire Department and Valley Ambulance responded.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scotts Bluff Co police respond to two vehicle accident near Lyman

WNCC Press Release The Western Community College Area Board of Governors selected Dr. Carmen Simone as the sixth president of Western Nebraska Community College, late Thursday evening. WCCA Board Chair Lynne Klemke said Simone's experience as a college president along with a variety of other roles elevated her to the top of the long list of applicants. "In the end, Dr. Simone has the best set of skills needed at this time for this institution," Klemke said. "Her years of experience as a community college president, coupled with her expertise as a faculty member, division chair, and administrator, really elevated her to the top." When Simone takes office, she will strive to build and maintain relationships within the three WNCC campuses and the surrounding communities. "I am deeply humbled that the Board of Governors has entrusted me with the leadership of Western Nebraska Community College," Simone said.&nbsp;"I look forward to building strong relationships both on our campuses and within our communities."&nbsp; Simone, the current and founding vice president and dean at the University of South Dakota Community College for Sioux Falls, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience of higher education. She is a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission, one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. Prior to her position in South Dakota, Simone served as president of Trinidad State Junior College in Colorado for five years. She has also held higher education roles at Lewis-Clark State College in Idaho and Casper College. Since taking her position at the University of South Dakota, she transformed an existing university center to an assimilated, fully-integrated community college within the University system, streamlining expenses to accommodate a mandatory self-support model. At Trinidad State, Simone helped stabilize enrollment numbers and increase retention and persistence rates, while aligning revenues and expenses for the college during a budget deficit. She also led philanthropic efforts to attain funding for scholarship initiatives, facility upgrades, and key faculty positions, securing the largest single gift in institutional history. Simone has a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Colorado State University, and a bachelor's in Chemistry from the University of North Dakota. Simone said she looks forward to working with all to lead WNCC into the future. "Without question, Western Nebraska Community College is an outstanding asset to the Nebraska Panhandle - and it always will be," Simone said.&nbsp;"I am eager to work with others to create a shared vision for the future so that we can continue serving our students and communities with excellence." Simone was selected by the Board of Governors following an extensive, nation-wide search. An 18-person search committee consisting of Board members, WNCC employees, community members, and a WNCC student sifted through 43 applicants to find Simone. Simone was one of three finalists the committee selected, along with Dr. Timothy Alvarez, president of Otero Junior College, in La Junta, Colorado, and Dr. Denise King, vice president for academic affairs at Cleveland State Community College, in Cleveland, Tennessee. King withdrew her name from consideration prior to the open forums and final interviews. Simone and Alvarez participated in the open forums and were individually interviewed by the committee, Thursday. "WNCC was so fortunate to have two excellent candidates as our finalists, and because of that we deliberated for more than five hours," Klemke said. The Board of Governors will ratify the selection at the next board meeting, Wednesday, Nov. 20. Simone will assume office in January 2020, succeeding Dr. John Harms, interim president, who held the position since June 2019. Until Simone takes office, Harms will remain and fulfill his duties as the head of WNCC.

Simone named WNCC president

Alliance Public SchoolsBoard of EducationRegular Meeting7:00 P.M November 18, 2019Alliance Board of Education Room I. Opening1. Call to Order, Call Attention to Open Meetings Law2. Pledge of Allegiance3. Roll Call4. Excuse Absent Board Members5. Approval of Agenda II. Information and Reports1. Pride in Excellence2. Board Committee Reports3. Director’s Reports4. Superintendent’s Report III. Public Comments on Agenda Items IV. Consent Agenda1. Minutes2. Bills3. Financial ReportsV. Action Items1. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve staff resignations.2. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve the administrative hiring recommendations.3. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve financial audit.4. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve superintendent evaluation.5. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve Kiddie Kampus-Hospital Lease.6. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve PREMA request.7. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve Sunday waiver for Santa’s Helpers. VI. Discussion Items1. Discuss Social Dec 8 or 152. Discuss Hyannis Inter-Local VII. Next Meeting: December 2, 2019VIII. Adjourn NOTICES: COPY OF OPEN MEETINGS ACT: The Board of Education makes available at least one current copy of the Open Meetings Act posted in the meeting room at a location accessible to members of the public. The Act is posted on the north wall of the meeting room. NOTICE OF MEETING: Notice of the meeting was published according to Board Policy. INSTRUCTIONS FOR THOSE WHO WISH TO SPEAK DURING PUBLIC FORUM: Getting Started: When it is your turn to speak during the public forum portion of the agenda, please come forward to the table situated immediately in front of the Board, sign your name and address on the sign-in sheet and state your name to the Board of Education. Time Limit: You may speak only one time and must limit comments to 5 minutes or less. Public forum will not exceed 30 minutes. Personnel or Student Topic: If you are planning to speak about a personnel or student matter involving an individual, please understand that our policies require that such concerns initially be directed to the administration for consideration. Board members will generally not respond to any questions you ask or comments you may make about individual staff members or students. You are cautioned that slanderous comments are not protected just because they are made at Board meeting. General Rules: Please remember that this is a public meeting for the conduct of the business of the Board of Education. Offensive language, personal attacks and hostile conduct will not be tolerated. CLOSED SESSIONS: Alliance Public Schools Board of Education reserves the right to go into closed session in accordance with 84-1410. BY: ALLIANCE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

APS BOE agenda for 11/18 meeting

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573753558633.png"> Fall River Health Services Press Release Hot Springs, SD, November 11, 2019 — Fall River Health Services will join the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) and other state/national rural stakeholders in celebrating National Rural Health Day on Thursday, November 21, 2019. NOSORH founded National Rural Health Day as a way to showcase rural America; increase awareness of rural health-related challenges; and promote the efforts of NOSORH, State Offices of Rural Health and others in addressing those challenges. National Rural Health Day is an annual day of recognition which occurs on the third Thursday of November and was awarded the 2018 "Outstanding Rural Health Program of the Year" by the National Rural Health Association. Events recognizing National Rural Health Day and “Celebrating the Power of Rural” are being planned throughout the nation. Fall River Health Services is planning to mark the occasion by welcoming our patients and staff members to join together for coffee and cookies, in the main waiting room, from 3:00-4:00 pm to celebrate our rural community and the services that our organization provides. An estimated 57 million people – nearly one in five Americans – live in rural and frontier communities throughout the United States. “These small towns, farming communities and frontier areas are wonderful places to live and work; they are places where neighbors know each other and work together,” says Teryl Eisinger, NOSORH CEO. “The hospitals and providers serving these rural communities not only provide quality patient care, but they also helpkeep good jobs in rural America.” These communities also face unique healthcare needs. “Today more than ever, rural communities must tackle accessibility issues, a lack of healthcare providers, the needs of an aging population suffering from a greater number of chronic conditions, and larger percentages of un- and underinsured citizens,” Eisinger says. “Meanwhile, rural hospitals are threatened with declining reimbursement rates and disproportionate funding levels that makes it challenging to serve their residents.” State Offices of Rural Health play a key role in addressing those needs. All 50 states maintain a State Office of Rural Health, each of which shares a similar mission: to foster relationships, disseminate information and provide technical assistance that improves access to, and the quality of, health care for its rural citizens. Fall River Health Services supports rural citizens through the entire healthcare continuum. Our healthcare facility provides services to Fall River and surrounding counties 365 days a year! We feel blessed to offer top-quality services to our community members through the Rural Health Clinic, Critical Access Hospital, 24-Hour Emergency Department, Outpatient Services and Seven Sisters Living Center. To learn more about Fall River Health Services and the services thatwe provide, visit www.frhssd.org.

FRHS celebrates rural health day

RWMC Press Release SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., ― Research shows that weight-loss surgery is the only effective treatment to combat severe obesity and maintain weight loss in the long term. It resolves type 2 diabetes in most patients and improves and resolves other chronic diseases and conditions, including sleep apnea, hypertension, joint and back pain, reflux, and more.&nbsp;Learn more about bariatric weight loss surgery at a free seminar Wednesday, December 18 at 6 p.m., in the Scotts Bluff I meeting room at Regional West Medical Center.&nbsp;This educational program will be presented by bariatric surgeon Jason LaTowsky, MD, of Regional West Physicians Clinic-Surgery, Vascular Diagnostics. He will discuss the different bariatric surgery options available at Regional West, including laparoscopic (LAP) band, gastric bypass, and gastric sleeve surgery.&nbsp;Bariatric surgery has been performed at Regional West Medical Center since 1980. Surgeon Jeffrey Holloway, MD, specializes in laparoscopic gastric band surgery, and surgeon Jason LaTowsky, MD, is fellowship-trained in both the laparoscopic gastric bypass and gastric sleeve procedures.&nbsp;Regional West is nationally accredited as a Comprehensive Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP), a joint program of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. It is also accredited as a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the Surgical Review Corporation. The Center of Excellence designation ensures that the safest, highest quality of care is delivered to bariatric surgery patients.&nbsp;For additional information, visit RWMCWeightLossOptions.com or call Bariatric Coordinator Becca Lattin, RN, at 308-630-2249.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rwhs.org/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(227, 108, 10);">Regional West Health Services</a>&nbsp;in Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company of Regional West Medical Center, a 188-bed regional referral center and one of three Level II Trauma Centers in the state. As the region’s only tertiary referral medical center, Regional West offers care that spans more than 32 medical specialties provided by over 28 physician clinics. With nearly 300 in-network providers, and 2,000 employees, Regional West provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

Regional West to host weight loss surgery seminar

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts says it’s “imperative” that he and lawmakers come up with a way to lower property taxes that can win approval in the upcoming legislative session. Ricketts expressed confidence Wednesday that lawmakers will find a way, despite an ongoing struggle in the tax-focused Revenue Committee to unite around a proposal. Ricketts say he’s been talking with committee members and is still willing to talk about their ideas. The governor made his comments in a conference call from Germany, where he is leading a trade delegation to create more economic development opportunities for Nebraska.

Ricketts: Property tax fix ‘imperative’ in 2020 session

14 young ladies from across Nebraska will be competing in the 2020 Best of the West competition in Alliance on Saturday, November 16 at 6PM at the Alliance Performing Arts Center in Alliance.&nbsp;The Best of the West competition is a combination of the Miss Alliance and Miss Chadron competitions traditionally held separately.&nbsp;Titles awarded that evening will include three Miss titles: Alliance and Harvest Moon Festival, and four Outstanding Teen Titles: Alliance, Chadron, Harvest Moon Festival, and Fur Trade Days!&nbsp;Along with scholarships, crowns and prizes, the winners will compete for the title of Miss Nebraska and Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen in 2020. The nine teen candidates vying for the Outstanding Teen titles are: Aubrie Charter, a 9th&nbsp;grader from North Platte; Hayleigh Hatcher, a 10th&nbsp;grader from Scottsbluff; Rylie Wright, a 9th&nbsp;grader from Hemingford; Jessica Splichal, an 11th&nbsp;grader from Mitchell; Nevaeh Lager, an 8th&nbsp;grader from Minatare; Jadyn Wetherington, a 10th&nbsp;grader from Mitchell; Josephine Dobson, a 10th&nbsp;grader from Lincoln; Katelyn Bowers, a 10th&nbsp;grader from North Platte; and Haylee Harder, a 9th&nbsp;grader from Gering.&nbsp; The five miss candidates vying for the titles are:&nbsp;Torisa Walker, a senior at Creighton University; Emily Stadler, a senior from North Platte High School; Katie Hoatson, a senior at University of Nebraska at Omaha; Alayna Wilson, a junior at University of Nebraska at Lincoln; and Lexie Jackson, a senior at Mitchell High School.&nbsp; Mistress of ceremonies and co-emcee of the evening will be Allie Swanson, Miss Nebraska 2019, and Phoenix Stanford, Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2019.&nbsp;The competition will also feature several young ladies from the area participating in the Little Sister program during the competition!&nbsp;The little sisters are paired up with a contestant and will perform on stage and escort their contestant during eveningwear!&nbsp; The audience will have an opportunity to vote for their favorite contestant by voting for the audience choice award!&nbsp;There will also be a silent auction that will take place during the competition.&nbsp; The Miss and Outstanding Teen competitions are under the Miss Nebraska and Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Competition, which is held under the Miss America Organization.&nbsp;It is designed to promote scholastic achievement, creative accomplishment, healthy living and community involvement for America's young women.&nbsp;&nbsp; Doors to the PAC open at 5:15 with the auditorium doors opening at 5:30.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tickets are available at the door.&nbsp;For more information, contact Riki at 308-430-4355 or Melinda at 303-710-5593 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:miss.alliance.pageant@gmail.com" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">miss.alliance.competition@gmail.com</a>.

2nd Annual best of the west Miss and Teen competition to be held Saturday in Alliance

Chadron Police Dept. Press Release As a service to our Community, Dog Licenses are made available a little early to assist in early registration. 2020 City of Chadron Dog Licenses are currently available for purchase. They will be available at the Police Department located at 125 Main Street, and at Chadron Veterinary Clinic located at 108 North Main Street. Below is the normal fee schedule for Dog Licenses: Early Registration &amp; New Dog License FeesJanuary of each year, City of Chadron Dog Licenses will be available at the following rates: Altered dogs (Spay or Neutered): $5.00Intact (Non-altered dogs): $15.00 A thirty-day grace period is also allowed for anyone who acquires a new dog, moves into the area with a dog, or has a puppy that turns six months old after February 1st of each year, allowing dog owners to purchase City of Chadron Dog Licenses at the above rates. Late Registration Dog License FeesAfter February 1 st of each year, the following rates will apply: Altered dogs (Spay or Neutered): $20.00Intact (Non-altered dogs): $40.00 If you have any questions about these fees or any Animal Ordinance(s), please feel free to contact the Chadron Police Department at: (308) 432-0510.

Chadron PD shares dog license info

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A former inmate has lost the lawsuit he filed after the 2015 riot at the Tecumseh prison that left two prisoners dead. The judge said in a ruling filed Tuesday that John Wizinsky didn't provide enough evidence that he'd been injured. And the judge said Wizinsky also failed to prove the state mismanaged its riot response or that the prison was understaffed at the time. The lawsuit alleged the state was negligent during the May 10, 2015, riot at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution. Inmates took control of a portion of the prison and killed two fellow prisoners. His lawsuit also said Wizinsky stopped three inmates from almost beating to death another prisoner, and he was left 18 hours without his diabetes medication and deprived of food. Wizinsky filed the lawsuit less than three months after leaving prison in 2016. He'd served time for drugs, theft and other crimes.

Ex-inmate loses lawsuit filed over handling of prison riot

LYMAN, Neb. (AP) — Authorities have identified a woman whose body was found in a western Nebraska ravine, next to her vehicle. The Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's Office says in a news release that the body of 59-year-old Cynthia Magee, of Lyman, was in about 3 feet (1 meter) of water when spotted by searchers on Monday. She'd last been seen leaving her workplace in Morrill around 10:30 p.m. Sunday. She texted her roommate early Monday morning that she was "in a swamp." The sleeping roommate didn't see the message until later. A helicopter crew on Monday spotted the woman's vehicle, which couldn't be seen by drivers passing by. An autopsy found no significant injuries or indication of foul play. Officials say it appears Magee's death was accidental. A final determination is pending toxicology results.

Woman whose body was found in ravine identified

NORTH PLATTE&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a California man and seized cocaine and marijuana found during a traffic stop on Interstate 80 near Brady. At approximately 7:00 a.m., Sunday, November 10, a trooper observed an eastbound Nissan Rogue speeding near mile marker 200. During the traffic stop, the trooper detected indicators of criminal activity. A search of the vehicle revealed 2.2 pounds of cocaine hidden under the spare tire and 1.5 pounds of marijuana concealed in a box filled with spray foam. The driver, Arnold Rodriguez, 44, of Modesto, California, was arrested for possession of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and no drug tax stamp. Rodriguez was lodged in Lincoln County Jail.

Troopers find cocaine, marijuana in I-80 traffic stop near Brady

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The University of Nebraska-Lincoln planning construction of a reflection area for its Veterans' Tribute project. The university said in a news release Monday that the area will run from the steps of the Military and Naval Science Building to the Coliseum. The $3.75 million project is part of an upgrade of the mall immediately east of Memorial Stadium. The fundraising goal through the University of Nebraska Foundation is $4.5 million, which will cover construction and create an endowment for maintenance. Words on steps in the reconfigured space will honor career moments and personal sacrifices of veterans. The tentative design will embody the concept of glass panels featured in the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial in Washington, D.C. Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin in spring 2020.

U of Nebraska-Lincoln planning Veterans Tribute project

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573579637726.jpeg" width="444">By KALIN KROHEPanhandle Post Fall, winter, and the Holidays are all around us and that means more "Teacher of the Month" certificates are being awarded to amazing teachers throughout the panhandle. The Alliance area teacher for the month of Oct. is Josi Failor. Failor is the 5th grade science teacher at Grandview Elementary in Alliance. Failor said this is her first year teaching at the school, but third overall year in the education system. Her students said they were learning about fractions in math, in science they're learning about what happens when two substances are mixed together, possessive pronouns in grammar, and folktales in reading class. Failor's nomination stated she is, "Hard working, dedicated, and a great teacher." To nominate an outstanding teacher or faculty member visit,&nbsp;<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/5d5d9f374e8741deab067737?from=%2Fcategory%2Fcontests" target="_blank" style="color: blue; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">https://panhandlepost.com/posts/5d5d9f374e8741deab067737?from=%2Fcategory%2Fcontests</a> Teacher of the month is powered by: Total Reflections Salon and Dairy Queen in Alliance.

Josi Failor gets 'Teacher of the Month' at Grandview

NCAP hosting sock drive in Chadron, Gordon, Rushville, Alliance

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573573267470.jpeg" width="390" style="cursor: nwse-resize;">Alliance – Western history author and lecturer Jeff Barnes brings the life and legend of William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody in Nebraska to the Alliance Public Library for a presentation on Tuesday, November 12, at 7:00 p.m. &nbsp;The presentation is sponsored by Humanities Nebraska, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, and the Alliance Public Library Foundation as part of the Humanities Nebraska Speaker Bureau. “Buffalo Bill’s Nebraska” covers Cody’s arrival in Nebraska as an army scout and follows him through his career as a hunting guide, rancher, performer, senator, colonel, and showman while on his way to becoming the most famous person in the world.&nbsp; “No one personified the West – nor personified America in Europe – like Buffalo Bill Cody,” said Barnes, author of “The Great Plains Guide to Buffalo Bill”. “He spent an incredible quarter-century in Nebraska, transforming himself from a somewhat-obscure scout to the world’s first superstar. He did that all from Nebraska, which is truly a story in itself.”&nbsp; The 45-minute presentation includes rarely seen images and seldom-heard stories of Cody, with the opportunity for questions afterward. Barnes’s book also will be available for sale at the lecture; published by Stackpole Books, “The Great Plains Guide to Buffalo Bill” is the first comprehensive travel guide to Cody’s activities on the Great Plains, including his homes, forts, battlefields, and related sites. It includes the history of Cody and the sites, historic and contemporary images, maps, and useful travel information. &nbsp;&nbsp;A former newspaper reporter and editor, Barnes writes and lives in Omaha. He is a former board trustee with the Nebraska State Historical Society, former chairman of the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission, and a frequently requested speaker with Humanities Nebraska. He is the author of 150 @ “150: Nebraska’s Landmark Buildings at the State’s Sesquicentennial”, “The Great Plains Guide to Buffalo Bill”, “The Great Plains Guide to Custer”, “Forts of the Northern Plains”, and “Extra Innings: The Story of Modisett Ball Park”.&nbsp; The most frequent users of the HN Speakers Bureau are primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities, libraries, museums and historical societies, agencies for the elderly, rural organizations, churches, arts organizations and ethnic organizations.&nbsp; Humanities Nebraska sponsors the largest Speakers Bureau program in the U.S. according to the National Endowment for the Humanities.&nbsp; For information detailing the available speakers and guidelines for booking them, please access our website at <a href="http://www.humanitiesnebraska.org" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">www.humanitiesnebraska.org</a> (Speakers section) or contact Humanities Nebraska at 215 Centennial Mall South, Suite 330, Lincoln, NE 68508, phone (402) 474-2131, fax (402) 474-4852 or e-mail <a href="mailto:info@humanitiesnebraska.org" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">info@humanitiesnebraska.org</a>. Please contact Cynthia Horn, Outreach and Adult Services Librarian at 762-1387 for more information.

'Buffalo Bill’s Nebraska' with Jeff Barnes at the Alliance library

Team Bear is currently collecting toys at multiple locations in partnership with Toys for Tots. Current drop off locations are the G-spot [Gathering Spot], Git-N-Split, and Newberry’s Common Ground in Alliance. We also partner with the local food banks for the food donations that are collected. This is the fourth year that Team Bear has been partnered with Toys for toys to help bring toys to children of families in need during the holidays. Team Bear is a charity full tackle semi pro football team based out of Colorado Springs, Colorado. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573572894648.jpeg"> The team is made up of semi pro football players from different teams within the Colorado Football Conference and the Colorado Football Alliance. We also have players joining us from Alliance, Nebraska. We travel to different locations to play football for the kids. The admission to the games is a new unwrapped toy as well as non-perishable food items and coasts, hats, and gloves. Team Bear makes sure that all donations stay in the local community where they are raised. This year 2019 we played in Greeley, Colorado as well as Colorado Springs, CO. Previous years we have also played in Denver, CO and well as Las Cruces, New Mexico.&nbsp; Team Bear was started by Cpl. Antonio “Bear” Barrera a US Marine who is now a member of Pikes Peak Marine Corps League Detachment 29. He has been a part of Colorado Semi pro football for over 20 years as a player and coach now known as Coach Bear. Coach Bear wanted to combine his passion for football and Love of helping the children through Toys for Tots. This is how Team Bear was formed.&nbsp;

'Team Bear' partnered with 'Toys for Tots' collecting toys this Christmas 

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573572401949.jpeg">-Photo courtesy: Cathy Gorn Chadron — Chadron High School teacher Michael Sandstrom researched the life and service of Corporal William Charles Herman as part of Memorializing the Fallen — a teacher professional development program from National History Day®. In honor of Veterans Day, Mr. Sandstrom’s eulogy and profile of Corporal William Charles Herman will be published at <a href="https://nhdsilentheroes.org/william-charles-herman" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 51, 204);">NHDSilentHeroes.org.</a> In addition, a lesson plan inspired by the Silent Hero, War Memorials Abroad: Foreign Memorialization of the Great War, is on the <a href="https://www.nhd.org/world-war-i" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">World War I page of National History Day’s website</a> and will be featured in the upcoming publication, Great War, Flawed Peace, and the Lasting Legacy of World War I. Sponsored by the U.S. World War I Centennial Commission and the Pritzker Military Museum &amp; Library, the Memorializing the Fallen program takes educators on the journey of a lifetime to rediscover the history of World War I and invigorate its teaching in America’s classrooms. By researching&nbsp;the story of a Silent Hero®, an American service member who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War I, program participants can be the voice of these Americans who died a century ago. In June 2019, Sandstrom joined 16 other extraordinary educators as they traveled through Europe, walking in the footsteps of history. Using their research, teachers created lesson plans, Silent Hero profiles, and eulogies now published on <a href="https://nhdsilentheroes.org" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">NHDSilentHeroes.org</a>. Designed to reinvigorate the study of World War I in American classrooms, the lesson plans are multi-disciplinary. Using primary and secondary sources, videos, and hands-on activities, students are transported into the past to examine the war and its legacies, which transformed the history of twentieth century. &nbsp;“This partnership with the U.S. World War I Centennial Commission and the Pritzker&nbsp;Military Museum &amp; Library has allowed us to take extraordinary educators to battlefields and memorials of Europe,” said National History Day Executive Director Dr. Cathy Gorn. “Their unique experiences will now help teachers bring history to life with the materials they produced for use in classrooms around the world.”&nbsp; Each lesson plan is based on solid scholarship, integrated with Common Core Standards, and makes use of interpretive materials. They are accompanied by research about Silent Heroes of World War I who are honored at cemeteries in Europe. About National History Day®:NHD is a non-profit organization based in College Park, Maryland, which seeks to improve the teaching and learning of history. The National History Day Contest was established in 1974 and currently engages more than half a million students every year in conducting original research on historical topics of interest. Students present their research as a documentary, exhibit, paper, performance, or website. Projects compete first at the local and affiliate levels, where the top entries are invited to the National Contest at the University of Maryland at College Park. NHD is sponsored in part by, HISTORY®, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the National Park Service, Southwest Airlines, the Crown Family Foundation, The Better Angels Society, and the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.nhd.org/" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">nhd.org</a>. About the United States World War One Centennial Commission:The World War I&nbsp;Centennial&nbsp;Commission&nbsp;was created by Congress in 2013 toprovide educational programs, public outreach, and commemorative events,regarding America’s involvement in World War I. The Commission is building the new National World War I Memorial in Washington, DC. Information on the Commission can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.worldwar1centennial.org/" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">ww1cc.org</a>. About the Pritzker Military Museum &amp; Library:Founded in 2003, the Pritzker Military Museum &amp; Library, located in downtown Chicago, is a nonprofit center where citizens and soldiers come together to learn about military history and affairs. The Museum &amp; Library feature an extensive collection of books, programs, artifacts, and rotating exhibits covering many eras and branches of the military. Programs include a lending library, the archives, recorded TV shows, podcasts and oral histories, and museum exhibits. To learn more about the Pritzker Military Museum &amp; Library, visit <a href="http://www.pritzkermilitary.org" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">www.pritzkermilitary.org</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PritzkerMilitaryLibrary/" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 255);">@PritzkerMilitaryLibrary</a> on Facebook.

Chadron's Sandstrom research published in book, website

By MAE ANDERSON AP Technology Writer Disney is throwing its hat into streaming Tuesday with the debut of its Disney Plus service. It is hoping the $7-a-month service, years in the making, will attract millions of subscribers with its mix of Marvel and Star Wars movies and shows, classic animated films and new series. There's a lot riding on the gamble, as traditional media companies seek to siphon the subscription revenue now going to Netflix and other streaming giants. With an advertising blitz, low entry price and coveted library of older movies and shows, Disney should "blow the doors off initially," said Pivotal Research Group analyst Jeffrey Wlodarczak. But the challenge will be keeping those subscribers in the long run. Disney is not alone in making the gambit. Here's a look at the new streaming challengers and what you get with each: DISNEY PLUS Disney's entertainment service, featuring shows and movies from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic. Launch date: Nov. 12 Price: $7 a month or $70 a year. Getting Disney Plus with ESPN Plus and Hulu, both owned by Disney, will cost $13 a month. Promotions: Seven-day free trial. Free year with all Verizon Wireless unlimited plans and when customers switch to Verizon's Fios Home Internet or 5G Home Internet. Original shows: "The Mandalorian," a live-action "Star Wars" series created by Jon Favreau. A prequel to the "Star Wars" movie "Rogue One." A series about the Marvel character Loki. A rebooted "High School Musical" series. A documentary series focused on Disney. Other shows and movies: Animated classics, including "Aladdin" and "The Jungle Book," will be available at launch; others will be added as streaming deals with other services expire. Movies released in 2019 or later will go to Disney Plus rather than a rival streaming service first. Disney Plus will also house past seasons of "The Simpsons," which Disney got through its purchase of Fox's entertainment business. APPLE TV PLUS Apple's entry into the streaming business. Launch date: Nov. 1 Price: $5 a month Promotions: Seven-day free trial. A year free to buyers of a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, iPod Touch or Mac. Original shows: A Jason Momoa series called "See" and "The Morning Show," a comedy starring Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon and Steve Carrell. The service will launch with nine original shows and movies, with more expected each month. Other shows and movies: None. PEACOCK The service from Comcast's NBCUniversal will carry 15,000 hours of video at launch. Launch date: April 2020 Price: Undisclosed Promotions: Free for many Comcast cable and internet customers. Original shows: Reboots of "Battlestar Galactica" and "Saved by the Bell." Comedy series "Rutherford Falls," from Michael Schur, creator of "The Good Place" and "Parks and Recreation." Other shows and movies: "30 Rock, "Will &amp; Grace," and "Cheers," though these won't stream exclusively on Peacock. Peacock will get "Parks and Recreation" and "The Office" once existing deals with Netflix expire. "Bridesmaids," ''E.T." and other movies from Universal Pictures, Focus Features and DreamWorks Animation. HBO MAX A souped-up version of HBO from AT&amp;T's WarnerMedia, with some 10,000 hours of video at launch. Launch date: May 2020 Price: $15 a month Promotions: Free for about 10 million existing HBO subscribers — those who get HBO through AT&amp;T distribution platforms such as U-Verse and DirecTV, and those who get the HBO Now streaming service directly from HBO, rather than a cable or online partner such as Amazon. Free for customers of AT&amp;T's higher-tier wireless and broadband offerings. Original shows: A "Game of Thrones" prequel called "House of the Dragon." ''Raised by Wolves," a sci-fi series directed by Ridley Scott. "Strange Adventures," a DC Super Hero anthology series. Other shows and movies: HBO shows and movies, including theatrical releases that HBO licenses. Programs from the Warner Bros. studio, including "Friends," ''The Big Bang Theory," ''The Fresh Prince of Bel Air" and "Pretty Little Liars." The animated comedy "South Park." New CW shows "Batwoman" and "Riverdale" spinoff "Katy Keene" will also be available to stream after the season ends.

Beyond Netflix: Disney Plus joins the streaming fray

LYMAN, Neb. (AP) - Authorities have found the body of a missing woman in a western Nebraska ravine, next to her vehicle. The Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's Office says the body of the 59-year-old woman was in about 3 feet of water when spotted by searchers on Monday. Her name hasn't been released yet. She'd last been seen leaving her workplace in Morrill around 10:30 p.m. Sunday. She texted her roommate early Monday morning that she was "in a swamp." The sleeping roommate didn't see the message until later. A helicopter crew spotted the woman's vehicle later Monday. People in vehicles driving by couldn't see it because of its resting place in the ravine a little more than 3 miles east of Lyman.

Missing woman's body found in ravine, next to vehicle

CHICAGO (AP) — An arctic air mass that brought snow and ice to an area stretching from the Rocky Mountains to northern New England on Monday was poised to give way to record-breaking cold temperatures. In mid-Michigan, three people were killed in a two-vehicle crash that the Eaton County sheriff's department attributed to heavy snowfall. And in Kansas, the highway patrol reported that a truck lost control on an icy highway and slammed head-on into another truck, killing an 8-year-old girl in the other vehicle. In Chicago, where as much as 6 inches (15 centimeters) of snow fell, an Envoy Air flight from Greensboro, North Carolina, slid off an icy runway at O'Hare International Airport as it tried to land at about 7:45 a.m. None of the 38 passengers and three crew members were injured, according to the city's aviation department. Snowfall totals could reach up to a foot or more in some areas of Indiana, Michigan and Vermont, according to the National Weather Service. Other places in the path of the air mass saw ice and rain. Denver saw just a few inches of snow but suffered numerous accidents on icy roadways because the snow fell during the morning commute. About 1,220 flights were canceled at Chicago's airports and officials in the area opened warming centers. In Michigan, some schools closed early, as did dozens of schools in the St. Louis area. The snow and ice was just the first punch from a weather system that pushed frigid air from Siberia across an area stretching from the Rocky Mountains to the East Coast. Temperatures below freezing were forecast as far south as Texas' Gulf Coast. "This is an air mass that's more typical for the middle of January than mid-November," said National Weather Service meteorologist Kevin Birk. "It is pretty much about the coldest we can be this time of year (and) it could break records all over the region." Winter doesn't officially start until December 22 this year. According to Birk, the lows on Tuesday could drop into the single digits or low teens in Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa, with highs climbing no further than the low 20s. The forecast high of 21 degrees (-6 Celsius) for Chicago would be a full seven degrees lower than the previous record set for Nov. 12. In some areas, temperatures plunged quickly. Temperatures in Denver climbed past 70 degrees (21 Celsius) over the weekend only to fall to 14 degrees (-10 Celsius) early Monday. One area where the low temperatures was particularly concerning was in central Wyoming, where officials were searching for a 16-year-old autistic boy who went missing wearing only his pajamas on Sunday, prompting a search that included certified human trackers, helicopters, dogs, and planes. The National Weather Service said areas west of the Rocky Mountains would be spared the arctic air, with above average temperatures expected in some of those places.

Winter already? Snow, deep freeze from Rockies to East Coast

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573494777763.jpeg" width="240">By Tena L. CookCSC Marketing Coordinator&nbsp;CHADRON – The Nebraska Department of Education has named Chadron State College alumna Megan (McNeil) Helberg the 2019-20 Teacher of the Year. Helberg is in her 10th year at Burwell Public Schools where she is also the head volleyball coach. She teaches eighth grade, junior and senior English.&nbsp;"Being named the Nebraska Teacher of the Year is quite humbling and exciting. I am ready to fully embrace the opportunities and adventures that come with this honor, all while representing the Good Life of Nebraska. Also, I am thrilled to have the spotlight on rural Nebraska and rural schools. We may be small, but we are mighty. Wonderful teachers and students exist all across our great state,” Helberg said.&nbsp;As Nebraska’s Teacher of the Year, Helberg is excited about upcoming travel opportunities and professional development.&nbsp;She will visit Washington D.C. for a week in April, meet governmental representatives, and attend the ceremony naming the Nation’s Teacher of the Year.&nbsp;She will also attend a conference at Princeton University, tour Google headquarters in California, and the NASA Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama.&nbsp;“I’ve never outgrown my interest in space. I thought it was so neat when my mom came back with her space suit. Even on family vacations, we’ve visited launch sites,” Helberg said.&nbsp;Another special interest of Helberg’s is Holocaust literature and Genocide education. In 2016, she was selected as a U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum Teacher Fellow. As a Fellow, she has coordinated workshops at Kearney and LaVista Educational Service Units and presented sessions for teachers of English and Social Studies in sixth through twelfth grades.&nbsp;Helberg competed in track and field for two years and volleyball for one year at CSC. She graduated with a business administration degree.&nbsp;“CSC was a wonderful fit for me. The community of Chadron was so supportive of the college and I’m still in touch with adult community members I met. I always felt very supported and safe. It’s an important time while you are finding your niche,” Helberg said.&nbsp;After a few years, Helberg said she realized her true calling was in teaching so she earned an education endorsement.&nbsp;“I finally admitted it and embraced it. I love reading, writing, and being connected to the kids and the community. I’m very passionate about these small rural schools and want to help keep them going. They are close-knit and everyone watches out for each other,” Helberg said.&nbsp;Helberg has several family ties to CSC.&nbsp;Her mother,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.education.ne.gov/recognitions/toy/#recognition_1995" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">Susan McNeil</a>, also an alumna, was the Nebraska Teacher of the Year in 1995 and went on to be a principal, and the superintendent at Anselmo-Merna. She is semi-retired and substitute teaches at Taylor, Burwell, Ansley, Sargent and other area schools.&nbsp;“Because she was so awesome at what she did, I was intimidated,” Helberg said.&nbsp;Helberg met her husband, Dan, at CSC when he was graduate student. He is a Scottsbluff native who earned a master’s in Educational Administration and teaches English at Ansley.

Chadron graduate earns 'Teacher of the Year'

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573489877558.jpeg" width="462">By Kalin KrohePanhandle Post The Alliance City Council recently had an in depth discussion about the purchase of a new mast lift for $40,767. The lift will be used in the municipal facilities. The conversation was started by Councilman Brian Mischnick asking if the city had looked into renting a mast lift instead of purchasing one. Alliance City Manager Jeff Sprock relayed that the city did, and the nearest place to rent one would be Denver, Colorado. "In doing some research for the questions that council had at the last meeting...it's pretty difficult to find a machine to rent, but Denver would be the closest place," said Alliance Water/Sewer/Street Superintendent Ross Grant. "It's a little bit of a rare item in terms of availability." Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney asked if purchasing this piece of equipment would be necessary. The council narrative states, "filter changes monthly and light replacements weekly." "Some of the buildings have some proprietary issues [Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, Alliance Public Library]. I was a little bit surprised as well," said Grant. "Dave Weaver and one of the other water employees went and replaced all the lights in the museum. Two days later about 20 lights were out on some of the track lighting system. I guess that's pretty common. One of the questions you had was usage and that was fairly difficult to answer because we haven't had the equipment to work with those items in the past." Grant told council that there are other departments [electric, fire] in Alliance that show interest in using this new equipment if purchased by the city. He thinks it would not get a shortage of use. Councilwoman Annora Bentley asked Grant how he and his department are doing this maintenance now since they don't have this new equipment. "The honest answer is, some of the maintenance hasn't been done." said Grant. "There are some filters that we have not been able to reach. There's physically no way to get there. They're above a display in the museum 23 feet in the air and that has been an issue. Some of them have been accomplished using some creative ladder structuring that I don't necessarily agree with in the past. Unsafe I think. So there's some maintenance items that have been ignored to a degree because of our lack of ability to get to them." Councilwoman Bentley said she has a problem spending $40,000 on a piece of equipment that shes not sure will get used enough. "I do think there are some inheritent expenses that the city incurs. Pieces of equipment that won't pay for themselves like they would at a construction company. There are things that are necessary for us to do, but we don't put the thousands and thousands of hours on them that a company that's working for profit would. So they certainly don't pay for themselves. I do think you are right that it may not pay for itself in terms of a fiscal standpoint." Grant added. Grant said there's a variety of uses with a machine like this. He said what the city and his department tried to do when selecting this equipment was find one that was the most versatile. Cultural and Leisure Services Director Shanna Brown said light bulbs aren't being able to be changed at the library and cleaning bugs that pile up in lights as well. Brown said city crews would have to build scaffolding when working on issues like this and that it was a time drain. "I think Ross [Grant] is right in saying that we'll find new uses for it. One example I was thinking is that we need to paint Carhenge," said Brown. "I was asking about getting a bucket truck. We can't do that because we can't get paint on it. So there's these restrictions about how you can use these things. I think if we have this we'll be able to find more ways to get things done more efficiently were as before we contracted that stuff out." Alliance Mayor Dafney ended the long conversation saying, "I don't suppose because of liability issues that we'd be able to use it for Christmas lights at our houses or anything." The council members, attendees, media, and others laughed as council approved the purchase of the mast lift shortly after. Councilwoman Reynolds said the main selling point for her was that this machine will enhance the safety of city employees.<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573489897703.jpeg" width="453"> In other business, the council: -Had first reading on an ordinance which would amend Chapter 24 of the Alliance Municipal Code. This amendment would give the city the ability to regulate the installation of telecommunication lines in right-of-ways. -Approved a resolution for the use of LB840 funding to assist with 3 Little Birds Health and Healing House business. -Approved a resolution to adopt a social media comment policy for the City of Alliance. The policy will not restrict free speech, but will provide a reasonable measure to ensure responsible postings that are not deleterious, harmful, and subject to censorship. -Approved a change order to the contract with Wynne Contracting for additional improvements to the Hal Murray Softball Complex. The original bid came in below budget, which allowed staff to recommend additional needed improvements to the complex. -Approved a resolution to enhance 911 call location data from Rapid SOS. This was recommended by Alliance Police Chief John Kiss. -Approved the fourth quarter financial statement. This was given by Alliance Finance Director Randy Waggener. -Introduced new employees to the city. Joshua Norris is a new police officer. Marla Eagleton will be working as a public transit driver. <iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/711164401&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=false&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" height="300" width="100%"></iframe>

Alliance council has long discussion on new $40,000 lift purchase

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Before Chuck Boers joined the U.S. Army, the Lipan Apache member was given his family's eagle feathers. The feathers had been carried by his great-great-great-grandfather on his rifle when he was an Apache scout. They also were carried by relatives who fought in World War I, World War II, Korea and Vietnam. In 2004, Boers had the feathers with him during the Battle of Fallujah in Iraq. "I felt like I had my family with me to protect me," he said. "The Warrior Tradition," a new film set to air on PBS, examines the complex history of Native Americans in the U.S. military since World War I and how their service transformed the lives for Native Americans from various tribes. Through interviews with veterans and using archival footage, the documentary probes the complicated relationship Native Americans had with military service and how they used it to press for civil rights. The documentary exhibits the mixed feelings some Native Americans felt toward the U.S. military and how tribal members embraced those who served as "warriors." "From just about the beginning of the United States itself, the government has fought various wars against Native nations. And that's the irony," Patty Loew, director of the Center for Native American and Indigenous Research at Northwestern University, said in the film. But Native Americans, from tribes in Oklahoma to nations in Washington, joined the U.S. military to honor their "end of the treaty" that the U.S. government previously broke, Loew said. At the onset of World War I, the first generation of Native Americans after the so-called Indian Wars began joining the U.S. Army even though they weren't considered citizens or allowed to vote. Returning veterans, and also those from World War II, earned accolades for their service. For example, Comanche and Navajo Code Talkers in World War II were credited with passing secrets amid hostile fighting. The returning veterans began demanding the right to vote and fought against discrimination. For example, Miguel Trujillo Sr., a Marine sergeant in World War II and a member of Isleta Pueblo in New Mexico, returned and waged a legal battle to overturn that state's law that barred American Indians living on reservations from participating in elections. Director Larry Hott said the veterans in the film believed military service was part of their family history and wasn't just about a way to escape poverty. It's part of a legacy that goes back generations, he said. "Many have waited a long time to talk about this," Hott said. "One veteran told me he hadn't even told his wife about his experiences." Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Lanny Asepermy, who is Comanche and Kiowa, said after the Comanches surrendered to the U.S. in 1875, the tribe's warrior tradition was hurt. Then some Comanche joined World War I. "We became warriors again," Asepermy said. He grew up seeing photos of relatives in the military at his grandparents' home. "I've always wanted to be a soldier. I didn't want to be anything else." He'd fight a year in Vietnam. Before he left, his grandmother prayed over him in the Kiowa language and placed medicine on him. "A couple of times in Vietnam, I could have gotten killed. Was it luck?" Asepermy said. "I think it was because of the prayers my grandmother gave me." The one-hour documentary co-produced by WNED-TV Buffalo Toronto and Florentine Films/Hott Productions, Inc., is scheduled to air on most PBS stations on Monday.

Film probes history of Native Americans in the US military

The annual Alliance Veteran's parade was held on Nov. 9 in downtown Alliance. The parade started as 11 a.m. and marched from the intersection of 14th street and Box Butte Avenue. Below are photos taken from Alliance resident Joanna Meyeraan. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486665970.jpeg" width="415" style=""><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486683594.jpeg" width="440" style=""><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486707402.jpeg" width="445" style=""><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486723100.jpeg" width="448" style=""><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486739965.jpeg" width="443" style=""><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486755557.jpeg" width="449" style=""><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486770672.jpeg" width="447" style=""><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486786041.jpeg" width="440" style=""><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486800394.jpeg" width="449" style=""><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486811946.jpeg" width="467" style="">﻿<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573486825590.jpeg" width="479" style="cursor: nesw-resize;">

Veteran's parade on the bricks, photo gallery 

Click <a href="https://panhandlepost.com/closings" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a listing of the most recent cancellations and delays from Panhandle Post.

Latest cancellations and delays

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Snow and bitter cold is expected across much of Nebraska and Iowa at the start of the work week. The National Weather Service says much of eastern Nebraska and western Iowa is likely to see 1-to-2 inches of snow by early Monday. Some parts of eastern Iowa could receive 4-to-6 inches of snow. Cold temperatures are expected to follow the snow on Monday. Temperatures are expected to drop into the teens Monday morning and winds up to 30 mph are expected.The wind may create blowing snow and wind chills around 0 degrees.

Snow, bitter cold expected in Nebraska and Iowa

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska wildlife officials are urging owners of small pets — even those in cities — to be vigilant in protecting them from coyotes. Coyotes are common throughout Nebraska, including in some urban areas where there are creek bottoms, green space with tall grass and agricultural fields. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission cautions people against approaching or feeding a coyote. It also suggests not leaving pet food outside and keeping any eye on pets outside, even if they're out for just a few minutes. Pets should be kept on a leash and not allowed to roam at night. The commission says most interactions people experience with coyotes are between coyotes and dogs due to the territorial nature of both animals. Coyotes typically avoid people, so attacks on human are rare.

Nebraska wildlife officials: Be aware of urban coyotes

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Two U.S. Air Force airmen helped a family as their house burned in western Nebraska. The airmen from F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne saw the fire near Dix while on duty Thursday. Kimball County, Nebraska, sheriff's officials say the airmen alerted a neighbor, who called authorities. <a href="https://k2radio.com/patrolling-f-e-warren-security-forces-help-put-out-house-fire/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(28, 167, 218);">KTWO Radio in Casper reports</a>&nbsp;the family of four was unaware their house was burning but soon made it out along with their three pets. Sheriff's officials say airmen first class Christopher Horton and Christian Reid of the 790th Missile Security Forces Squadron helped control a hydrant while a firefighter used a water hose. F.E. Warren Air Force Base oversees dozens of nuclear missiles in silos scattered across rural southeastern Wyoming, western Nebraska and northeastern Colorado.

Air Force airmen report, help fight western Nebraska house fire

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission plans to sample deer carcasses for chronic wasting disease during the coming firearm season, Nov. 16-24. The state wants to assess the spread and prevalence of the disease. Samples will be taken at check stations in northeast, central and northwest Nebraska. Game and Parks will accept voluntary samples from any hunter who kills an elk. Chronic wasting disease affects deer and elk and is always fatal. No human cases have ever been recorded. The disease was first discovered in Nebraska in 2000 in Kimball County. It's been found in 42 Nebraska counties, but no deer population declines attributable to the disease have been identified.

Game and Parks to check carcasses for deer disease

CHADRON – Speakers at Chadron State College’s Social Work 435 conference focused on the power of forgiveness, kindness, and love as an antidote to hate. Senior students in the Social Work program presented the conference as part of their graduation requirements. The students responsible for organizing the conference are Emily Parker of Chadron, Michaela Hill of Douglas, Wyo., Virginia Page of Hay Springs, Neb., Jeff Mugongo of Aurora, Colo., Leslie Beckman of Nampa, Idaho, Kali Ritterbush of Castle Rock, Colo., Mitchell Martin of Alliance, Neb., Toi Riggs of Gordon, Neb., and Brent Barge of Gering, Neb. Social worker and former gang member Sammy Rangel&nbsp;opened the conference. He told of his childhood of verbal, physical, and sexual abuse that led him to run away from home at the age of 11. His third day on the streets of Chicago he witnessed a murder. When he was returned to his home, the abuse escalated. “I didn’t want to kill my mom, but I feared she was going to kill me,” he said. His unruly behavior in school led to discipline problems and even though he and his siblings reported their parents’ violence to teachers and police officers, the children were not removed from the home. “Kids don’t just act that way. Somebody needed to ask ‘why’ but they didn’t,” Rangel said. He went on to commit crimes than resulted in prison time and multiple stints of solitary confinement, once for setting a fire in the cell of a white supremacist. “I got to the point where I thought, ‘if no one will listen, then someone will pay.’ I had made the association at that time that the people who wouldn’t listen were white and my friends on the street who gave me a bed and food were brown,” Rangel said. Citing examples from his youth, he asked future social workers in the audience to consider the important implications of their case management. “Think about how you treat your clients when they are at their worst. Your case notes can condemn a child or give them opportunities to improve. No one is broken beyond repair. Don’t give up on people,” Rangel said. He said understanding professionals who saw his humanity helped him forgive others, dismantle his grievances, and leave his devotion to suffering. “You may be the first person to listen [to your client]. You can validate the person without validating their viewpoint. I failed to change 10,000 times, but I got it right once,” he said. Dr. Ferial Pearson, founder of Secret Kindness Agents, shared the backstory of the organization that now has more than 11,000 followers on Facebook.&nbsp;The Sandy Hook school shooting in December 2012 had profound effect on Pearson, a teacher in Ralston, Nebraska, at the time.&nbsp;“I wanted to stay on the couch with my kids and a blanket, order everything from Amazon Prime and never have my family leave the house again. But, I had to go back to school because many times I was the only advocate for my students,” Pearson said.&nbsp;A question from her 13-year-old daughter planted the seed of an idea that has become a book, a TEDx talk, a Hallmark commercial and more: “What if everyone had been kind to the killer every day?”&nbsp;Pearson said she realized the Sandy Hook situation was much more complicated than that, but she also recognized the potential of the suggestion. She conferred with her students and together they set ground rules for the project.&nbsp;Journaling reflections about their feelings before, during, and after was an important aspect of Secret Kindness Agents.&nbsp;Pearson shared examples of youth and adults who have been positively affected by the program. Some, now in their 20s, have embraced their kind acts and transformed them into habits, such as picking up trash and mowing lawns.&nbsp;About the same time, Pearson began to use a Native American legend about symbolic two wolves, one good and one bad, inside each person, to encourage her students to see and feed the positive, and starve the negative.&nbsp;“They started to notice when other students were struggling and said, ‘let’s feed his good wolf.’ Kids were being nicer to their siblings at home. Baking cookies for neighbors, doing chores for grandparents. Teachers were being more kind to students. Teachers were kinder to each other,” Pearson said. “A mute student in Colorado started speaking and said it was because of Secret Kindness Agents made school feel safer.”Throughout the day, three Chadron State College students shared their experiences related to hate.&nbsp;Aydin Garvin of Crawford, Neb., explained how being bisexual and non-binary, and preferring the pronoun “they” has been a challenge. Garvin said suitemates were not accepting which resulted in mental health issues and decreased confidence culminating in a time when they skipped class for a week.&nbsp;Thanks to a counselor and support group, Garvin felt increased well-being and said they came out to their parents last summer and to the public in September.&nbsp;“Bravery is contagious. You have a chance to change a life,” Garvin said.&nbsp;Kevin Coy of Davenport, Florida, shared two experiences with blunt hate. As a high school sophomore, his geometry teacher publicly ridiculed his goal of playing college football and the second when his family was visiting Chadron and passengers in a vehicle driving by yelled the “N” word from an open window.&nbsp;“I was sorry my family came so far to hear an insult. I can’t control what others say or do, but what I can control, is how I react. Hate does not define you. I chose to take the high route instead of letting it escalate. How we treat and what we say to others can affect them for the rest of their lives. Lead with love. Be the positive change you want to see in the world,” said Coy, who played football at CSC for four seasons and was an Academic All-American.&nbsp;BriYanna Lyon of Fountain, Colorado, shared stories of hateful comments her family has received because she and her fraternal twin brother have different skin color. Their mother is African American and their father is from Thailand.&nbsp;When she was born, the doctor told Lyon’s father that his newborn daughter could have a different father than her brother. Other times when the family has been conducting business, comments or questions have centered on her skin color being different. Once, a police officer followed her and a group of cousins so closely through a store in her hometown that her grandfather, who is normally easy-going, became upset.&nbsp;“Education is important. Forgiving other helps you avoid hate,” Lyon said.&nbsp;Spike Eickholt, an attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union in Lincoln, explained that even though many feel Nebraska is not as progressive as it could be, the state’s Hate Crime statute 28-110 was passed in 1997 when he worked closely with legislature.&nbsp;The law states that a resident of Nebraska “has the right to live free from violence, or intimidation by threat of violence, committed against his or her person or the destruction or vandalism of, or intimidation by threat of destruction or vandalism of, his or her property regardless of his or her race, color,&nbsp;religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability.”&nbsp;The law includes a provision so victims can take civil action against perpetrators for damages. There is a current proposal to add gender identity to the statute.&nbsp;“Hate is not a crime, in and of itself, unless you take action on it. Speech is protected even if it is hateful or offensive. Only if there is a threat of eminent danger, is it illegal. Often it is accompanied by trespassing, vandalism, or conspiracy and those charges will stand,” Eickholt said.&nbsp;Chris Singleton, a former Chicago Cubs baseball player, opened his presentation by asking all the audience members to hug someone who looked different from him or her and tell the person they love them.Singleton was 19 in 2015 when his mother was shot and killed in the Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal church in Charleston, South Carolina.&nbsp;“I always do that because someone in here needed it. People think I’m crazy, but I think if I would have grown up with my mother’s killer, I would have hugged him and told him I loved him in middle school and high school,” Singleton said. “Dylann Roof, a real human being, walked into my church and fired 70 shots. He was mislead and mistaught. We can make change with love.”&nbsp;Singleton said the shooting, which was planned by Roof to start a race war, had the opposite effect and instead united Charleston.&nbsp;Singleton, who is married, has a child and is raising his younger brother and sister, decided his mission is to travel and speak about love and forgiveness.&nbsp;“I know it can make a difference. One life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives. I want to teach like Dr. King. Lead with love and strive for unity,” Singleton said.&nbsp;Monique Mousseau and her wife, Felipa De Leon, both members of the Oglala Lakota Sioux tribe, spoke about their successful lobbying efforts for same-sex marriage and hate crime legislation on the Pine Ridge Reservation.&nbsp;Mousseau, a certified federal police officer, said she was threatened by fellow officers and she left the force in 2006.&nbsp;“I received threats to my parents and my wife. I was gay bashed and it’s time to change the homophobic mentality. We’ve heard of so many tragedies: bashing, suicide, rape, murder. So we worked hard for this legislation,” Mousseau said.&nbsp;De Leon said she has been bullied and shamed for being Native American, being lesbian, being female, and having dyslexia.&nbsp;“By working together we can make this a better place for everybody to live,” De Leon said.&nbsp;Nebraska State College System Chancellor Paul Turman concluded the day’s agenda with praise for Social Work Professor Bruce Hoem, the students who presented the conference, and the speakers.

Social Work conference focuses on kindness and forgiveness

CHADRON – Chadron State College and its Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) recently hosted four workshops from Oct. 23 to Oct. 25, including a Meet the Buyers Government Contracting Conference.&nbsp;On Oct. 23, business owners attended the Developing an Effective Capability Statement workshop at the Burkhiser Complex. CSC business students and NBDC staff assisted business owners with producing capability statements in preparation for a Meet the Buyers Conference. Seven business representatives participated in the workshop, with some traveling almost 500 miles, according to Jennifer Wittrock with NBDC.&nbsp;On Oct. 24, a morning Prepare to Pitch workshop included tips for networking with buyers. NBDC personnel helped 11 business owners write and rehearse their pitches and a buyer from the US Army Corps of Engineers provided advice.&nbsp;At the Meet the Buyers conference Oct. 24, the following resource partners explained their services: Intellicom, Nebraska Enterprise Fund, Center for Rural Affairs—Rural Enterprise Assistance Project, Northwest Nebraska Development Corporation, and the Small Business Administration.&nbsp;Agency buyers who made presentations describing their missions and needs include: Pine Ridge Job Corps/Forest Service, F. E. Warren Air Force Base, Ellsworth Air Force Base, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Regional Emergency Management agencies, General Services Administration, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Encountering Innovation.&nbsp;A networking session, including free consulting, followed the formal presentations with more than 30 business representatives from throughout Nebraska and surrounding states, according to Wittrock.&nbsp;During the Set-Aside Programs workshop Oct. 25, business representatives learned about federal contracting set-aside programs, including the 8(a) Business Development Program for socially and economically disadvantaged businesses, the HUBZone Program for historically underutilized business zones, the Woman-Owned Small Business Program, and the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Program as well as subcontracting for prime contractors.

More than 50 attend four NBDC workshops in Chadron

LOUP CITY, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska conservation officers are searching for a man who fell out of a boat on a central Nebraska lake. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission says the incident happened Friday near Loup city, when two men on a duck hunt were traveling across Sherman County Reservoir in a boat when it capsized. Both men were thrown both into the water and one man was able to swim to a nearby cabin and call for help. Officers are searching for the other man, whose named has not been released. An investigation of the incident is ongoing.

Search is on for man who fell into Nebraska reservoir

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573239095035.jpeg"><img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573239306602.jpeg">-Door painting designed by Kathy Worley of Keep Alliance Beautiful.

Alliance Family Dental offering veterans 'free dental day' 

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573232448858.jpeg" width="401" style="cursor: nesw-resize;">NORTH PLATTE&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested a Minnesota man and seized hundreds of packages of THC products following a traffic stop in Custer County. Wednesday evening, November 6, at approximately 5:00 p.m., a trooper observed a Saab sedan speeding near the intersection of Victoria Springs Road and Drive 443, approximately 10 miles west of Sargent. During the traffic stop, a K9 from the Custer Count Sheriff’s Office detected the presence of a controlled substance in the vehicle. The trooper searched the vehicle and found hundreds of containers of THC products, along with four pounds of marijuana. The search revealed 386 containers of THC wax, 144 packages of THC shatter, 62 THC vape cartridges, and 39 containers of THC edibles and liquid products. The driver, Anthony Kolbe, 30, of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to distribute, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Kolbe was lodged in Custer County Jail.

Hundreds of THC products found during Custer County traffic stop

By Erica HaskellNCAP Head Start <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573226730040.jpeg">Donating is one of the many ways employees at Farm Credit Services of America support and give back to the rural communities they serve. FCS America provides matching dollars for employee donations to non-profit organizations. On Thursday October 31st, Erica Haskell of Head Start in Alliance accepted a donation from Farm Credit Services of America. The donation will be used to buy materials for the classrooms.&nbsp;