The Alliance Police Department is pleased to announce that our newest police officer, Tyrel Hoatson, has successfully completed 16 weeks of training at the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center earning his Law Enforcement Officer certification. The training program at the NLETC is a physically and mentally challenging program that incorporates a blend of online learning, classroom instruction, and hands-on skill development. To receive certification a student must pass all written examinations, and successfully complete all performance objectives. Students must also complete the essential physical job tasks as approved by the advisory council.

On Tuesday, August 20th at 7pm Officer Hoatson will officially be sworn in during our regularly scheduled council meeting held in the council chamber of the Alliance Public Library. Officer Hoatson will complete further training while assigned to a field training officer for the next 12 weeks. Upon successful completion of the field training program, Officer Hoatson will begin working as a fully trained solo officer. Please join me in welcoming Officer Hoatson to the Alliance Police Department.

By Alliance Police Department<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724083010614.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance Police Department is pleased to announce that our newest police officer, Tyrel Hoatson, has successfully completed 16 weeks of training at the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center earning his Law Enforcement Officer certification. The training program at the NLETC is a physically and mentally challenging program that incorporates a blend of online learning, classroom instruction, and hands-on skill development. To receive certification a student must pass all written examinations, and successfully complete all performance objectives. Students must also complete the essential physical job tasks as approved by the advisory council.On Tuesday, August 20th at 7pm Officer Hoatson will officially be sworn in during our regularly scheduled council meeting held in the council chamber of the Alliance Public Library. Officer Hoatson will complete further training while assigned to a field training officer for the next 12 weeks. Upon successful completion of the field training program, Officer Hoatson will begin working as a fully trained solo officer. Please join me in welcoming Officer Hoatson to the Alliance Police Department.

Alliance PD welcomes new officer

Late Thursday night, the Kimball County Sheriff's Office posted on social media that the fire ban in Kimball County has been lifted by the fire chiefs of Kimball County.

Kimball County - Kimball County officials have made an announcement that due to dry weather; a fire ban will be in effect until further notice. Officials say no open flames or fires are permitted.

Panhandle PostLate Thursday night, the Kimball County Sheriff's Office posted on social media that the fire ban in Kimball County has been lifted by the fire chiefs of Kimball County.-----Original StoryKimball County - Kimball County officials have made an announcement that due to dry weather; a fire ban will be in effect until further notice. Officials say no open flames or fires are permitted.

ICYMI: Fire ban lifted in Kimball County

Summer Adventures Art Camp is underway at the Carnegie Arts Center. We are excited to announce that our art camp has 42 students in attendance, maintaining consistently high numbers for the past four years! Students attend camp three nights a week. There are two youth sessions and one advanced/teen session. Throughout our history, we have always been fortunate to receive the support of generous individuals and businesses. They have donated their time, talent, and resources to make arts opportunities possible for their community members. The Box Butte Art Society and St. John’s Lutheran Church are two such organizations who have been kind enough to grant scholarship support for students to attend Art Camp. We are also very fortunate to receive support from generous individuals who’ve&nbsp; donated funds to provide camp scholarships for young artists to pursue their passions. One kind individual has asked to remain anonymous but requested that his donation specifically go towards supporting student artists. Our other generous individual, Bill Doole, previously of Alliance, NE donated $1,000 last year in honor of his wife Peggy Doole. Peggy was an educator, master art historian, and life-long art enthusiast. The Doole family felt that Peggy would be pleased to see more children have access to art classes and has remained a resource to provide art camp scholarships to youth for years to come. Congratulations to our six 2024 scholarships recipients for the Summer Adventures Art Camp, and our sincerest gratitude for such benevolent support of young artists. We are looking forward to welcoming our students into the Carnegie family and can’t wait to see what these marvelous young minds produce.

As always, we want to thank our sponsors for making meaningful arts opportunities possible for our community. Thank you to our August exhibit sponsors Charles and Ellen Lierk, Walter Mischnick Contractors, and Dave's Pharmacy. Thank you to our operational grantors the Nebraska Arts Council, Nebraska Cultural Endowment, and the Bill and Virginia Coffee Foundation who help make programming and services possible. Thank you also to our program grantors the DF Dillon Foundation, Snow-Redfern Foundation, Darold A. Newblom Foundation, Alliance Mission Store, Inc., and CA Story Foundation.

By Carengie Arts Center<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724080558013.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Summer Adventures Art Camp is underway at the Carnegie Arts Center. We are excited to announce that our art camp has 42 students in attendance, maintaining consistently high numbers for the past four years! Students attend camp three nights a week. There are two youth sessions and one advanced/teen session. Throughout our history, we have always been fortunate to receive the support of generous individuals and businesses. They have donated their time, talent, and resources to make arts opportunities possible for their community members. The Box Butte Art Society and St. John’s Lutheran Church are two such organizations who have been kind enough to grant scholarship support for students to attend Art Camp. We are also very fortunate to receive support from generous individuals who’ve&nbsp; donated funds to provide camp scholarships for young artists to pursue their passions. One kind individual has asked to remain anonymous but requested that his donation specifically go towards supporting student artists. Our other generous individual, Bill Doole, previously of Alliance, NE donated $1,000 last year in honor of his wife Peggy Doole. Peggy was an educator, master art historian, and life-long art enthusiast. The Doole family felt that Peggy would be pleased to see more children have access to art classes and has remained a resource to provide art camp scholarships to youth for years to come. Congratulations to our six 2024 scholarships recipients for the Summer Adventures Art Camp, and our sincerest gratitude for such benevolent support of young artists. We are looking forward to welcoming our students into the Carnegie family and can’t wait to see what these marvelous young minds produce.As always, we want to thank our sponsors for making meaningful arts opportunities possible for our community. Thank you to our August exhibit sponsors Charles and Ellen Lierk, Walter Mischnick Contractors, and Dave's Pharmacy. Thank you to our operational grantors the Nebraska Arts Council, Nebraska Cultural Endowment, and the Bill and Virginia Coffee Foundation who help make programming and services possible. Thank you also to our program grantors the DF Dillon Foundation, Snow-Redfern Foundation, Darold A. Newblom Foundation, Alliance Mission Store, Inc., and CA Story Foundation.

Summer Adventures Art Camp at Carnegie Arts Center in Alliance

P202400452 03:35 EMS : MEDICAL Investigation that resulted in the removal of three children in conjunction with HHS Closed - Resolved

P202400453 10:27 EMS : MEDICAL Investigation into a suicidal female. Female was transported to BBGH under EPC Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400454 09:27 INFO : INFORMATIONAL Investigation into a SOR residential complaint Closed - Resolved

P202400455 14:33 FOUND : FOUND Officers responded to the intersection of 10th and Emerson Ave for a report of found ammunition in the roadway Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400456 17:10 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY Closed - Resolved

P202400457 12:15 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY1200 Emerson Ave / Side swipe accident / report filed Closed - Resolved

P202400458 23:43 OD : Overdose Closed - Resolved

P202400458 23:43 OD : Overdose Open - Under Investigation

P202400459 10:51 DUI : DUI REDDI report of possible drunk driver that left the scene of accident Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400460 15:50 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : officers responded to the 1200 block of Yellowstone in reference to damage property/ case report taken Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400462 23:05 DISTURBANCE-VERBAL Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400463 07:21 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYOfficers responded to B row Meadows Trailer Court in reference to a reported hit and run. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400464 18:26 INFO : INFORMATIONAL Closed - Resolved

By Alliance Police Department08/11/24P202400452 03:35 EMS : MEDICAL Investigation that resulted in the removal of three children in conjunction with HHS Closed - ResolvedP202400453 10:27 EMS : MEDICAL Investigation into a suicidal female. Female was transported to BBGH under EPC Closed - Charges Recommended08/11/24 Total: 208/12/24P202400454 09:27 INFO : INFORMATIONAL Investigation into a SOR residential complaint Closed - ResolvedP202400455 14:33 FOUND : FOUND Officers responded to the intersection of 10th and Emerson Ave for a report of found ammunition in the roadway Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400456 17:10 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY Closed - Resolved08/12/24 Total: 308/14/24P202400457 12:15 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY1200 Emerson Ave / Side swipe accident / report filed Closed - ResolvedP202400458 23:43 OD : Overdose Closed - ResolvedP202400458 23:43 OD : Overdose Open - Under Investigation08/14/24 Total: 308/15/24P202400459 10:51 DUI : DUI REDDI report of possible drunk driver that left the scene of accident Closed - Charges RecommendedP202400460 15:50 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : officers responded to the 1200 block of Yellowstone in reference to damage property/ case report taken Inactive - Case Suspended08/15/24 Total: 208/16/24P202400462 23:05 DISTURBANCE-VERBAL Closed - Charges Recommended08/16/24 Total: 108/17/24P202400463 07:21 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYOfficers responded to B row Meadows Trailer Court in reference to a reported hit and run. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400464 18:26 INFO : INFORMATIONAL Closed - Resolved08/17/24 Total: 2Total Records: 13

Alliance Police Department: The media report 

By TENA L. COOK, CSC MARKETING COORDINATOR

CHADRON – Six faculty members have joined Chadron State College. Faculty in the School of Professional Studies and Applied Sciences are Dr. Teri Marrow, Anne Semrau, and Carrie Stiefel. In the School of Liberal Arts, new faculty are Myers Enlow, Sam Herley, and Md Khadimul Islam. There are no new faculty in the School of Mathematics and Science.

Marrow, who has been an adjunct CSC faculty since 2022, is an Assistant Professor in Counselor Education. She will teach Practicum Clinical Mental Health Counseling (COUN601) and Group Counseling (COUN634).

“What attracted me to Chadron and CSC was the opportunity to work for a CACREP-accredited program and the collaborative teamwork in Counselor Education,” she said.

She earned a bachelor’s in Deaf Education from Stephen F. Austin State University, a master’s in Counseling from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, and a doctorate in Counselor Education from Sam Houston State University.

Semrau is an Assistant Professor in Family and Consumer Science. She will teach Introduction to Nutrition and Dietetics (NTR110), Food Science (FCS136), Resource Management (FCS331), and Global Food Systems (FCS436).

She said she was attracted to the position and the region.

“I loved the area when I visited for my interview. It's a great job in a beautiful place,” she said.

Semrau is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Antioch New England Graduate School, Kansas State University, and Texas State University.

Stiefel is an Assistant Professor in Psychology who will teach Intro to Psychological Sciences (PSYC131), Social Psychology (PSYC251), and Developmental Psychology (PSYC254).

She grew up primarily in eastern Nebraska and said she wanted to return to the upper Midwest.

“As a military brat, I experienced different communities, both large and small. Chadron is a fantastic community with enormous potential, and CSC appealed to my desire to continue my academic career in a place that focused more on student successes,” she said.

She earned credit from the U.S. Air Force during active duty, an Associate of Applied Science in Applied Sciences/Technology from Oklahoma State University, a bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a master’s and a doctorate in Educational Psychology from Capella University, both degrees with distinction.

Enlow is an&nbsp;Assistant Professor in English. She will teach Topics in Writing (ENG136), Children's Literature (ENG235), Adolescent Literature (ENG438/538), History of American Literature to 1865 (ENG 232A), History of American Literature from 1865 (ENG 232B), and Elements of Literature (ENG 233).

She is from a small town and was drawn to CSC because of the close-knit campus community.

“I am really excited to provide a personalized experience for the students. The ability to teach a wide range of courses and have more opportunities to participate in the English department was also a huge draw for me. Having&nbsp;the&nbsp;opportunity to walk to campus and foster a strong sense of community in Chadron is something I'm looking forward to,” she said.

Enlow earned a bachelor's and a master's in English Literature from Clemson University. Her doctorate in Literary and Cultural Studies is from the University of Memphis.

Herley is an&nbsp;Assistant Professor in History/Social Studies. He will teach&nbsp;US History to 1865 (HIST151), US 19th Century History (HIST 355), and Nebraska History (HIST 362).

He was attracted to the opportunity to teach and research in a tenure-track position.

“I very much like the location. It is an epicenter of American West history, and that has been my major area of focus for 20 years. I was extremely impressed during my campus visit, and everyone I've met in the town and campus community has been hospitable and helpful. It already feels like a great place to call home,” Herley said.

He earned a bachelor’s in History from Gettysburg College and a master’s and doctorate in History from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Herley’s area of focus is the American West, with particular interest in the relationship between Native American tribal nations and the U.S. in the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries. His other areas of interest include the U.S. Civil War and the presidency of Harry Truman. He curated the South Dakota Oral History Center at the University of South Dakota for the past nine years.

Islam is an&nbsp;Assistant Professor in Communication Arts. He will teach Intro to Digital Publishing (CA231), News Reporting (CA333), and Media Practicum-Newspaper (CA431).

He said he looks forward to working where faculty and students can foster meaningful relationships within a welcoming and supportive community.

Islam is a doctoral candidate in Communication at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.

He earned a master's in Journalism from the University of Mississippi, and a Bridge Graduate Certificate in Public Health Practices from Wayne State University.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC MARKETING COORDINATOR<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724072003552.jpeg" alt="New Chadron State College faculty, fall 2025. Front row, from left: Teri Marrow, Khadimul Islam, Myers Enlow. Back row: Anne Semrau, Carrie Stiefel, Sam Herley. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>New Chadron State College faculty, fall 2025. Front row, from left: Teri Marrow, Khadimul Islam, Myers Enlow. Back row: Anne Semrau, Carrie Stiefel, Sam Herley. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – Six faculty members have joined Chadron State College. Faculty in the School of Professional Studies and Applied Sciences are Dr. Teri Marrow, Anne Semrau, and Carrie Stiefel. In the School of Liberal Arts, new faculty are Myers Enlow, Sam Herley, and Md Khadimul Islam. There are no new faculty in the School of Mathematics and Science.Marrow, who has been an adjunct CSC faculty since 2022, is an Assistant Professor in Counselor Education. She will teach Practicum Clinical Mental Health Counseling (COUN601) and Group Counseling (COUN634).“What attracted me to Chadron and CSC was the opportunity to work for a CACREP-accredited program and the collaborative teamwork in Counselor Education,” she said.She earned a bachelor’s in Deaf Education from Stephen F. Austin State University, a master’s in Counseling from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, and a doctorate in Counselor Education from Sam Houston State University.Semrau is an Assistant Professor in Family and Consumer Science. She will teach Introduction to Nutrition and Dietetics (NTR110), Food Science (FCS136), Resource Management (FCS331), and Global Food Systems (FCS436).She said she was attracted to the position and the region.“I loved the area when I visited for my interview. It's a great job in a beautiful place,” she said.Semrau is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Antioch New England Graduate School, Kansas State University, and Texas State University.Stiefel is an Assistant Professor in Psychology who will teach Intro to Psychological Sciences (PSYC131), Social Psychology (PSYC251), and Developmental Psychology (PSYC254).She grew up primarily in eastern Nebraska and said she wanted to return to the upper Midwest.“As a military brat, I experienced different communities, both large and small. Chadron is a fantastic community with enormous potential, and CSC appealed to my desire to continue my academic career in a place that focused more on student successes,” she said.She earned credit from the U.S. Air Force during active duty, an Associate of Applied Science in Applied Sciences/Technology from Oklahoma State University, a bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a master’s and a doctorate in Educational Psychology from Capella University, both degrees with distinction.Enlow is an&nbsp;Assistant Professor in English. She will teach Topics in Writing (ENG136), Children's Literature (ENG235), Adolescent Literature (ENG438/538), History of American Literature to 1865 (ENG 232A), History of American Literature from 1865 (ENG 232B), and Elements of Literature (ENG 233).She is from a small town and was drawn to CSC because of the close-knit campus community.“I am really excited to provide a personalized experience for the students. The ability to teach a wide range of courses and have more opportunities to participate in the English department was also a huge draw for me. Having&nbsp;the&nbsp;opportunity to walk to campus and foster a strong sense of community in Chadron is something I'm looking forward to,” she said.Enlow earned a bachelor's and a master's in English Literature from Clemson University. Her doctorate in Literary and Cultural Studies is from the University of Memphis.Herley is an&nbsp;Assistant Professor in History/Social Studies. He will teach&nbsp;US History to 1865 (HIST151), US 19th Century History (HIST 355), and Nebraska History (HIST 362).He was attracted to the opportunity to teach and research in a tenure-track position.“I very much like the location. It is an epicenter of American West history, and that has been my major area of focus for 20 years. I was extremely impressed during my campus visit, and everyone I've met in the town and campus community has been hospitable and helpful. It already feels like a great place to call home,” Herley said.He earned a bachelor’s in History from Gettysburg College and a master’s and doctorate in History from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Herley’s area of focus is the American West, with particular interest in the relationship between Native American tribal nations and the U.S. in the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries. His other areas of interest include the U.S. Civil War and the presidency of Harry Truman. He curated the South Dakota Oral History Center at the University of South Dakota for the past nine years.Islam is an&nbsp;Assistant Professor in Communication Arts. He will teach Intro to Digital Publishing (CA231), News Reporting (CA333), and Media Practicum-Newspaper (CA431).He said he looks forward to working where faculty and students can foster meaningful relationships within a welcoming and supportive community.Islam is a doctoral candidate in Communication at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.He earned a master's in Journalism from the University of Mississippi, and a Bridge Graduate Certificate in Public Health Practices from Wayne State University.

6 faculty join Chadron State College 

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

You may have seen the big white school bus parked at Viaero in Alliance last week. Obviously it wasn't there to pick up kids for school. So what was happening?

Every year United Way of Western Nebraska (UWWN) hosts Stuff the Bus. Community members have the opportunity to help ensure that every single kid has the supplies to be successful in school regardless of their family's resources.

Karen Benzel, Executive Director of United Way of Western Nebraska says the items the child receives are not marked in any way, so they are identical to the types of items their classmates will have.

Remember that back-to-school is an expensive time for families. Kids have grown. They need new clothes, shoes, coats. And, based on their grade, they need lots of supplies for their classroom.

I went to Carter's and pulled the Alliance lists to see what kinds of supplies are collected. Then I priced the items on Emerson School's First Grade list. (I did not drive around town checking prices. I used Amazon, because I was watching the Olympics. Several of these items would be cheaper if bought locally.) Unless a brand name was needed, I used the lowest price option I could find. Here is what I found, including brand names.

1 Backpack (Trailmaker) $8.95; 2 boxes cookies/crackers (Amazon brand graham crackers) $7.24; 2 packages yellow #2 pencils (Ticonderoga) $4.94; 1 box 24 Crayola Crayons $5.63; 2 large boxes Kleenex $6.99; 4 glue sticks (Bazic) $8.06; 1 pencil bag (Dellukee) $8.99; Headphones (VI) $12.99; 1 large pink eraser $4.82; 2 packages baby wipes (Pampers 56) $4.78; 1 pack BandAids 20 count kids #3.88; 1 pack Dry Erase markers (Expo 4 pack) $4.41; 1 water bottle (Zak Designs) $7.99; 1 container disinfecting wipes (Lysol) $4.97; PE shoes (EGMPDA) $19.99. Sales tax on everything but the graham crackers $7.52.&nbsp;Grand total: $122.15.

I'll spare you the fifth grade list, but the grand total there was $123.76. Middle school and high school students will not learn what they have to purchase until the first day of class, as each teacher will have separate expectations. I did not check with other schools.

The Stuff the Bus drive has ended, and all the donations have been delivered to the Panhandle schools in the UWWN area.

In Alliance, United Way drops off supplies at the school administration building. Then those supplies are sorted by age or grade and delivered to the schools. Each school's counselor can be contacted by parents; they will pull the supplies the child needs for his/her class. You do not need to be qualified by income, like free or reduced lunch forms.&nbsp;

Dr. Troy Unzicker, Alliance Public Schools Superintendent, said that any remaining supplies are given directly to classroom teachers. This allows them to replace any items their students need that disappear or break.

If you are a parent or guardian and you know your child needs help getting the supplies they need for the school year, call the counselor where your child attends school. Don't let your family's lack of resources prevent your child from starting school on a level playing field.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityYou may have seen the big white school bus parked at Viaero in Alliance last week. Obviously it wasn't there to pick up kids for school. So what was happening?Every year United Way of Western Nebraska (UWWN) hosts Stuff the Bus. Community members have the opportunity to help ensure that every single kid has the supplies to be successful in school regardless of their family's resources.Karen Benzel, Executive Director of United Way of Western Nebraska says the items the child receives are not marked in any way, so they are identical to the types of items their classmates will have.Remember that back-to-school is an expensive time for families. Kids have grown. They need new clothes, shoes, coats. And, based on their grade, they need lots of supplies for their classroom.I went to Carter's and pulled the Alliance lists to see what kinds of supplies are collected. Then I priced the items on Emerson School's First Grade list. (I did not drive around town checking prices. I used Amazon, because I was watching the Olympics. Several of these items would be cheaper if bought locally.) Unless a brand name was needed, I used the lowest price option I could find. Here is what I found, including brand names.1 Backpack (Trailmaker) $8.95; 2 boxes cookies/crackers (Amazon brand graham crackers) $7.24; 2 packages yellow #2 pencils (Ticonderoga) $4.94; 1 box 24 Crayola Crayons $5.63; 2 large boxes Kleenex $6.99; 4 glue sticks (Bazic) $8.06; 1 pencil bag (Dellukee) $8.99; Headphones (VI) $12.99; 1 large pink eraser $4.82; 2 packages baby wipes (Pampers 56) $4.78; 1 pack BandAids 20 count kids #3.88; 1 pack Dry Erase markers (Expo 4 pack) $4.41; 1 water bottle (Zak Designs) $7.99; 1 container disinfecting wipes (Lysol) $4.97; PE shoes (EGMPDA) $19.99. Sales tax on everything but the graham crackers $7.52.&nbsp;Grand total: $122.15.I'll spare you the fifth grade list, but the grand total there was $123.76. Middle school and high school students will not learn what they have to purchase until the first day of class, as each teacher will have separate expectations. I did not check with other schools.The Stuff the Bus drive has ended, and all the donations have been delivered to the Panhandle schools in the UWWN area.In Alliance, United Way drops off supplies at the school administration building. Then those supplies are sorted by age or grade and delivered to the schools. Each school's counselor can be contacted by parents; they will pull the supplies the child needs for his/her class. You do not need to be qualified by income, like free or reduced lunch forms.&nbsp;Dr. Troy Unzicker, Alliance Public Schools Superintendent, said that any remaining supplies are given directly to classroom teachers. This allows them to replace any items their students need that disappear or break.If you are a parent or guardian and you know your child needs help getting the supplies they need for the school year, call the counselor where your child attends school. Don't let your family's lack of resources prevent your child from starting school on a level playing field.

Getting Ahead: Stuff The Bus - school supplies 

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.

-Alan D Hazen, Class 3A Felony, Terroristic threats, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peace

-Chad Alan Parkinson, Class 3A Felony, DUI (2 prior conv.)

-Javier Figueroa, Class 3A Felony, DUI (2 prior conv.), Class 2 Misdemeanor, Drive during revocation/impound, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Refuse to submit to pretest

-Martie G Loch, Class 2A Felony, Assault 2nd degree, Class 3A Felony, Terroristic threats, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peace

-Casey Cjase Alone,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Open Container

-Reginald Smith,&nbsp;Poss Firearm, Poss. Cont Sub,&nbsp;Use of Firearm, Obstruct Gov.

-Mitzi Cosme-Dubray,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss of marijuana &lt;10z.

-Quintin Biery,&nbsp;(F) in poss of firearm, Tampering w/&nbsp;evidence, Discharge firearm in city,&nbsp;Disturbing the peace X 2

-Kimberly Martin,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para

-Justin Cunningham,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss Marijuana &lt;1oz,&nbsp;Poss deadly weapon by prohibited,&nbsp;person, Poss drug para, Open container

-Tyler Schultz,&nbsp;Forgery 1st degree, Poss cont sub

-Jayson L Gomez, Class 3A Felony, Violate se off. reg. act

-Bryce Running Hawk, Class 4 Felony, Operate motor vehicle/avoid arrest, Drive while revoked from DUI/refusal, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Willful reckless driving&nbsp;

-Geneva Respects Nothing, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Obstruct a peace officer, Class 3A Felony, Commit child abuse intentional/no injury, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Resist arrest, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Criminal mischief $0-500

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.Box Butte Co:&nbsp;-Alan D Hazen, Class 3A Felony, Terroristic threats, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peace-Chad Alan Parkinson, Class 3A Felony, DUI (2 prior conv.)-Javier Figueroa, Class 3A Felony, DUI (2 prior conv.), Class 2 Misdemeanor, Drive during revocation/impound, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Refuse to submit to pretest-Martie G Loch, Class 2A Felony, Assault 2nd degree, Class 3A Felony, Terroristic threats, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peaceScotts Bluff Co:&nbsp;-Casey Cjase Alone,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Open Container-Priscilla Rodriquez,&nbsp;Poss Cont Sub-Alejandro Lozoya,&nbsp;Poss Cont Sub-Reginald Smith,&nbsp;Poss Firearm, Poss. Cont Sub,&nbsp;Use of Firearm, Obstruct Gov.-Mitzi Cosme-Dubray,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss of marijuana &lt;10z.-Quintin Biery,&nbsp;(F) in poss of firearm, Tampering w/&nbsp;evidence, Discharge firearm in city,&nbsp;Disturbing the peace X 2-Kyjuan Poor Bear,&nbsp;Poss cont sub-Kimberly Martin,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para-Justin Cunningham,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss Marijuana &lt;1oz,&nbsp;Poss deadly weapon by prohibited,&nbsp;person, Poss drug para, Open container-Tyler Schultz,&nbsp;Forgery 1st degree, Poss cont subDawes Co:&nbsp;-Jayson L Gomez, Class 3A Felony, Violate se off. reg. act-Bryce Running Hawk, Class 4 Felony, Operate motor vehicle/avoid arrest, Drive while revoked from DUI/refusal, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Willful reckless driving&nbsp;-Geneva Respects Nothing, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Obstruct a peace officer, Class 3A Felony, Commit child abuse intentional/no injury, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Resist arrest, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Criminal mischief $0-500

Panhandle police activity, Aug. 2 - Aug. 16 

Tell somebody how they can get rid of a particular item – for free – and be nice to the planet, chances are the next day, maybe the day after, there will have grown a pile. The trick is convincing that person’s neighbor they need to take home and reuse the aforementioned item.

Large signage attached to the side of the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center explicitly instructs potential recyclers to NOT leave items (other than deposited in the trailers along Second Street between Laramie and Cheyenne Avenues) outside the building or on the property before or after hours of operation: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday. By Wednesday this week we had the usual: a flat screen dumped on the north side rather than coming to the front door and forking over the suggested $1 donation and bags piled next to two trailers – both had plenty of room. Importantly, every posted rule comes with exceptions.

Ranchers and others with empty lick tubs know it is acceptable to deposit the, usually blue, containers where the TV was, and, likewise, any passerby is welcome to haul the tubs home free of charge. This spring and summer, however, ushered in after hours paint deposits.

KAB has taken cans of used paint for years. The idea is to provide free material to people who want to reuse it. Paint, like everything else, is not cheap . . . so, we screen recycled cans of paint, stain, etc. for what appears to still be good though not everything may in fact be usable or what you expected. Paint is stored in the office area of the recycling center and given away to anybody who could use anything from a half pint of mustard yellow enamel to several gallons of leftover primer.

Partial cans of paint are perfect for smaller craft and DIY projects or as a base coat to prime larger areas. A couple years ago several gallons went to a local resident who needed to paint part of her home as mandated by her landlord or face eviction. Artists may even find the right fit when attempting to create a recycled piece.

Though we prefer people bring paint to us during regular business hours if possible, we will continue to have a tote outside the recycling center to take partial/used cans of paint until cold weather arrives. Paint that has been frozen is not acceptable to give away. Also, solid or dried cans of paint will not be recycled or reused.

Leftover paint may not be a suitable replacement in many cases though I hope anyone that can benefit from a fresh coat will stop by the recycling center to see the cans and colors waiting for a brush.

By JOHN E. WEARE, KABTell somebody how they can get rid of a particular item – for free – and be nice to the planet, chances are the next day, maybe the day after, there will have grown a pile. The trick is convincing that person’s neighbor they need to take home and reuse the aforementioned item.Large signage attached to the side of the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center explicitly instructs potential recyclers to NOT leave items (other than deposited in the trailers along Second Street between Laramie and Cheyenne Avenues) outside the building or on the property before or after hours of operation: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday. By Wednesday this week we had the usual: a flat screen dumped on the north side rather than coming to the front door and forking over the suggested $1 donation and bags piled next to two trailers – both had plenty of room. Importantly, every posted rule comes with exceptions.Ranchers and others with empty lick tubs know it is acceptable to deposit the, usually blue, containers where the TV was, and, likewise, any passerby is welcome to haul the tubs home free of charge. This spring and summer, however, ushered in after hours paint deposits.KAB has taken cans of used paint for years. The idea is to provide free material to people who want to reuse it. Paint, like everything else, is not cheap . . . so, we screen recycled cans of paint, stain, etc. for what appears to still be good though not everything may in fact be usable or what you expected. Paint is stored in the office area of the recycling center and given away to anybody who could use anything from a half pint of mustard yellow enamel to several gallons of leftover primer.Partial cans of paint are perfect for smaller craft and DIY projects or as a base coat to prime larger areas. A couple years ago several gallons went to a local resident who needed to paint part of her home as mandated by her landlord or face eviction. Artists may even find the right fit when attempting to create a recycled piece.Though we prefer people bring paint to us during regular business hours if possible, we will continue to have a tote outside the recycling center to take partial/used cans of paint until cold weather arrives. Paint that has been frozen is not acceptable to give away. Also, solid or dried cans of paint will not be recycled or reused.Leftover paint may not be a suitable replacement in many cases though I hope anyone that can benefit from a fresh coat will stop by the recycling center to see the cans and colors waiting for a brush.

KAB: Paint possibilities

Alliance, NE – Starting on Monday August 19, Sundance PPI will start inspecting power poles for the City of Alliance. They will start at Wayne Road and Highway 385 going west of the highway along all City of Alliance lines. 

The inspection area will be from Wayne Road north to Madison Road and west of Highway 385. This is expected to take three weeks to complete.&nbsp;

Any questions can be addressed at Utility Facility (308) -762-1907.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – Starting on Monday August 19, Sundance PPI will start inspecting power poles for the City of Alliance. They will start at Wayne Road and Highway 385 going west of the highway along all City of Alliance lines. The inspection area will be from Wayne Road north to Madison Road and west of Highway 385. This is expected to take three weeks to complete.&nbsp;Any questions can be addressed at Utility Facility (308) -762-1907.

Inspection of Alliance power poles

Western Community Health Resources (WCHR) has added a Community Essentials Pantry, providing new hygiene items and cleaning products, in their Alliance location at 619 Box Butte Avenue.

What kind of items are available? Toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and denture adhesive. Bar soap and body wash, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, and lotion. Feminine hygiene supplies.&nbsp;Razors and combs.

Paper products including toilet tissue, kleenex, and paper towels.

Cleaning supplies like dish soap, laundry detergent, and household cleaners.

People who need these hygiene and cleaning products, which cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits, may visit the WCHR pantry once a month. They are asked to request only what they need.

The pantry is open to anyone needing assistance. WCHR asks participants to fill out a form with demographic information, but people requesting products can remain anonymous. WCHR will ask what items are needed, and they fill the requests right away. They use donated items that are available at the time.

Diapers are NOT available at WCHR, but are available at NCAP offices in Alliance and Chadron.

Along with the Alliance location, WCHR also has a Community Essentials Pantry at 300 Shelton Street in Chadron. The two pantries serve Box Butte, Dawes, Sheridan, and Sioux counties. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://wchr.net/" target="_blank">wchr.net</a>&nbsp;and then click on the Family Services tab. Phone the Alliance office at 308-762-3696, or the Chadron office at 308-432-8979. Friday. WCHR office hours are Chadron: 8:00 – 6:00, Monday – Friday; Alliance: 8:00 – 5:00, Monday – Thursday.

Funding for the Alliance Community Essentials Pantry has been provided by United Way of Western Nebraska, Consumer's Cooperative Credit Union, and Walmart. Pantry supplies are being donated by individuals,&nbsp;Access Period for menstrual products,&nbsp;and several area churches including the Alliance Berean, Alliance Seventh Day Adventist, Calvary Assembly, First Presbyterian, Holy Rosary Catholic, St. Matthew's Episcopal, and St. John's Lutheran Churches. Donations of the listed items and monetary donations are welcome at any of these churches, or by dropping off unopened, unused items at WCHR, 619 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityWestern Community Health Resources (WCHR) has added a Community Essentials Pantry, providing new hygiene items and cleaning products, in their Alliance location at 619 Box Butte Avenue.What kind of items are available? Toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and denture adhesive. Bar soap and body wash, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, and lotion. Feminine hygiene supplies.&nbsp;Razors and combs.Paper products including toilet tissue, kleenex, and paper towels.Cleaning supplies like dish soap, laundry detergent, and household cleaners.People who need these hygiene and cleaning products, which cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits, may visit the WCHR pantry once a month. They are asked to request only what they need.The pantry is open to anyone needing assistance. WCHR asks participants to fill out a form with demographic information, but people requesting products can remain anonymous. WCHR will ask what items are needed, and they fill the requests right away. They use donated items that are available at the time.Diapers are NOT available at WCHR, but are available at NCAP offices in Alliance and Chadron.Along with the Alliance location, WCHR also has a Community Essentials Pantry at 300 Shelton Street in Chadron. The two pantries serve Box Butte, Dawes, Sheridan, and Sioux counties. For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://wchr.net/" target="_blank">wchr.net</a>&nbsp;and then click on the Family Services tab. Phone the Alliance office at 308-762-3696, or the Chadron office at 308-432-8979. Friday. WCHR office hours are Chadron: 8:00 – 6:00, Monday – Friday; Alliance: 8:00 – 5:00, Monday – Thursday.Funding for the Alliance Community Essentials Pantry has been provided by United Way of Western Nebraska, Consumer's Cooperative Credit Union, and Walmart. Pantry supplies are being donated by individuals,&nbsp;Access Period for menstrual products,&nbsp;and several area churches including the Alliance Berean, Alliance Seventh Day Adventist, Calvary Assembly, First Presbyterian, Holy Rosary Catholic, St. Matthew's Episcopal, and St. John's Lutheran Churches. Donations of the listed items and monetary donations are welcome at any of these churches, or by dropping off unopened, unused items at WCHR, 619 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance.

Getting Ahead: Community Essentials Pantry 

Alliance, NE – The City of Alliance Water Department would like to remind the community to practice water conservation during high temperature months. High water demand places a strain on the City’s water system.

Different ways residents can aid with water conservation is by watering lawns in the early morning and less frequent; use a broom to clear walkways/driveways; and refrain from running faucets and other household appliances such as; washing machines and dishwashers excessively.

Please contact the Public Works Facility at (308) 762-1907 for more information or with questions on how you can practice water conservation.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The City of Alliance Water Department would like to remind the community to practice water conservation during high temperature months. High water demand places a strain on the City’s water system.Different ways residents can aid with water conservation is by watering lawns in the early morning and less frequent; use a broom to clear walkways/driveways; and refrain from running faucets and other household appliances such as; washing machines and dishwashers excessively.Please contact the Public Works Facility at (308) 762-1907 for more information or with questions on how you can practice water conservation.

City of Alliance reminds to practice water conservation

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/15/term-limited-nebraska-lawmakers-mount-what-could-be-last-push-for-more-property-tax-relief/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Like a phoenix from the ashes, term-limited Nebraska lawmakers made what could be their last ask Thursday to revive more substantial property tax relief plans before their time in the Legislature ends.

State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha outlined&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/wayne-new-prop-tax-plans.pdf">three options</a>&nbsp;for his colleagues to consider Thursday afternoon, ahead of an expected second-round debate on&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58075" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 34</a>. LB 34 is the evolving effort put forward by the Revenue Committee to address rising property taxes, the major goal of the special session.&nbsp;

Almost immediately, lawmakers from Wayne’s class of senators elected in 2016 began jumping on board, again demanding&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/14/nebraska-lawmakers-advance-absolute-minimum-property-tax-package-after-months-of-buildup/">more options than what they were left with</a>&nbsp;Tuesday.

Tuesday was the day when LB 34 first faced a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/AM/AM73_S1.pdf" target="_blank">122-page amendment</a>&nbsp;but then landed at&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/AM/AM84_S1.pdf" target="_blank">43 pages</a>, with three components:

At least 15 lawmakers won’t return in January, including 13 who are term-limited after eight years in office, including Wayne. Many of those say that LB 34 could be the last train out of the station on property tax relief but that they want more.

State Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston: “I am not leaving here with what we have now. How do you go home? We’re going to do what we need to do.”

State Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont: “I don’t think it’s enough, but I think a whole other picture that we have not talked about is economic development.”

State Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue: “My regret is that I’m not here next year, because I would keep fighting, but I don’t want to leave without doing something.”

State Sen. Mike McDonnell of Omaha: “It doesn’t have to be those three options. We can be as creative as we want.”

Wayne has said if the current version of LB 34 is all the Legislature passes, it could have been done “over email” or a conference call. He and others have suggested going home if that’s what’s left on the table.

Instead, his new ideas would expand LB 34, which currently would provide approximately 3% in new relief ($185 million), to providing 25% or 40% total relief on top of existing programs. If his proposals are not supported, he asked lawmakers to target existing tax credits to those who need it most.

“The entire state of Nebraska is looking for us to do something at this point,” Wayne said. “We’re in a special session, we should do something special.”

State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard has also fought for what he sees as a “solution,” not just a “Band-aid on an amputation,” which is how he describes LB 34 and other plans pushed from the Revenue Committee.

Erdman has encouraged lawmakers to embrace his EPIC Option Consumption Tax proposal, to eliminate property, income and sales taxes outright.

Walz and Blood have urged caution and asked that lawmakers work with local governments, such as municipalities and counties, so services aren’t impacted and new unfunded mandates aren’t passed on.

“There’s absolutely no way that we can solve the property tax problem if we don’t grow our state and bring in new revenue,” Walz said.

Blood said that includes bumping up the local cap on annual property tax collections to the greater of 3% or inflation, instead of just 0% in times of deflation. She also criticized the Legislature for not embracing other revenue generators, such as creating a new income tax bracket.

Much of the frustration built after LB 34 was drastically narrowed from an approximate 30% cut in property taxes to just 3% halfway through debate Tuesday. At that time, lead lawmakers pivoted to a “skinnied-down” plan with its “absolute minimum” components.

Each of Wayne’s three plans would build upon the current LB 34 in the following way and would build upon one another in successive motion. Changing school funding was not part of any of the plans that Wayne distributed.

“This may not be the answer, but I think it’s the first time that people can sit down and figure out what we’re doing,” Wayne said.

Option 1 (a “better way to do the 3% new relief”)

Owners of different property types would see a different percentage of available tax credits. Wayne said that would help differentiate “grandma down the street” from commercial property owners, businesses and out-of-state land owners:

That option would also value residential property at a lower rate than actual market value, with one rate for owner-occupied housing and another for residential rental housing. That would require a constitutional amendment.

Option 2 (a 25% reduction in property taxes)

New tax credits to cover funding for the state’s 23 natural resources districts (about $95 million annually) would be created, and the state would reimburse county jails for operating and maintenance expenses. It would also have the state reduce assessed valuations and pay for the change in value. That would leave the state on the hook for:

That option would also embrace LB 73 and LB 39, from McDonnell and State Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha, respectively.

McDonnell’s LB 73 would expand income eligibility to include adjustments by changes in the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s House Price Index, which is greater than inflation in the Consumer Price Index.

Kauth’s LB 39 would restore homestead exemption eligibility to some Nebraskans who qualified in the past three years but, because of rising valuations, became ineligible.

With the expanded relief, Wayne would have the state increase “sin” taxes on six goods:

New sales taxes would be added to 33 services, ending various exemptions on goods and services including tattoos, skin care services, lobbying work and chartered flights.

A new sales tax exemption would be added on residential electricity.

Option 3 (a 40% reduction in property taxes)

Decreasing corporate and individual income tax bracket rates, by 2028, would be paused for one year to save an additional $250 million. Those rates would still reach 3.99% by 2029.

The third option would also include LB 47, from Wayne, to remove the franchise tax on financial institutions and instead have them pay the corporate income tax. Candy and soft drinks would also be taxed under the plan.

Renters would see additional relief with an income tax reduction up to $2,200, or the full amount of rent paid during the taxable year. That is similar to LB 740 in 2022, from State Sen. Wendy DeBoer of Omaha in 2022, which proposed a deduction of up to $3,000.

The earned income tax credit would also be increased from 10% of the federal credit allowed, to 15%.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723815769656.jpeg" alt=" Lawmakers who are term limited or not seeking election in the fall meet together on the last day of the 2024 legislative session. Not pictured: State Sens. Joni Albrecht, John Lowe and Tony Vargas. April 18, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Lawmakers who are term limited or not seeking election in the fall meet together on the last day of the 2024 legislative session. Not pictured: State Sens. Joni Albrecht, John Lowe and Tony Vargas. April 18, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/15/term-limited-nebraska-lawmakers-mount-what-could-be-last-push-for-more-property-tax-relief/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Like a phoenix from the ashes, term-limited Nebraska lawmakers made what could be their last ask Thursday to revive more substantial property tax relief plans before their time in the Legislature ends.State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha outlined&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/wayne-new-prop-tax-plans.pdf">three options</a>&nbsp;for his colleagues to consider Thursday afternoon, ahead of an expected second-round debate on&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=58075" target="_blank">Legislative Bill 34</a>. LB 34 is the evolving effort put forward by the Revenue Committee to address rising property taxes, the major goal of the special session.&nbsp;Almost immediately, lawmakers from Wayne’s class of senators elected in 2016 began jumping on board, again demanding&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/08/14/nebraska-lawmakers-advance-absolute-minimum-property-tax-package-after-months-of-buildup/">more options than what they were left with</a>&nbsp;Tuesday.Tuesday was the day when LB 34 first faced a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/AM/AM73_S1.pdf" target="_blank">122-page amendment</a>&nbsp;but then landed at&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/AM/AM84_S1.pdf" target="_blank">43 pages</a>, with three components:<ul>
 <li>“Front-loading” income tax credits for property taxes paid so they appear on property tax statements, rather than property owners needing to file for the credit on their tax form.</li><li>Expanding allowable credits for property taxes paid to fund K-12 schools to $750 million in the first year.</li><li>Capping annual growth in property tax collections for municipal and county governments, at the greater of inflation or 0% in times of deflation.</li>
 </ul><h2>Last months in office for some</h2>At least 15 lawmakers won’t return in January, including 13 who are term-limited after eight years in office, including Wayne. Many of those say that LB 34 could be the last train out of the station on property tax relief but that they want more.State Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston: “I am not leaving here with what we have now. How do you go home? We’re going to do what we need to do.”State Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont: “I don’t think it’s enough, but I think a whole other picture that we have not talked about is economic development.”State Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue: “My regret is that I’m not here next year, because I would keep fighting, but I don’t want to leave without doing something.”State Sen. Mike McDonnell of Omaha: “It doesn’t have to be those three options. We can be as creative as we want.”<h2>‘We should do something special’</h2>Wayne has said if the current version of LB 34 is all the Legislature passes, it could have been done “over email” or a conference call. He and others have suggested going home if that’s what’s left on the table.Instead, his new ideas would expand LB 34, which currently would provide approximately 3% in new relief ($185 million), to providing 25% or 40% total relief on top of existing programs. If his proposals are not supported, he asked lawmakers to target existing tax credits to those who need it most.“The entire state of Nebraska is looking for us to do something at this point,” Wayne said. “We’re in a special session, we should do something special.”State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard has also fought for what he sees as a “solution,” not just a “Band-aid on an amputation,” which is how he describes LB 34 and other plans pushed from the Revenue Committee.Erdman has encouraged lawmakers to embrace his EPIC Option Consumption Tax proposal, to eliminate property, income and sales taxes outright.<h2>A path forward, with caution</h2>Walz and Blood have urged caution and asked that lawmakers work with local governments, such as municipalities and counties, so services aren’t impacted and new unfunded mandates aren’t passed on.“There’s absolutely no way that we can solve the property tax problem if we don’t grow our state and bring in new revenue,” Walz said.Blood said that includes bumping up the local cap on annual property tax collections to the greater of 3% or inflation, instead of just 0% in times of deflation. She also criticized the Legislature for not embracing other revenue generators, such as creating a new income tax bracket.Much of the frustration built after LB 34 was drastically narrowed from an approximate 30% cut in property taxes to just 3% halfway through debate Tuesday. At that time, lead lawmakers pivoted to a “skinnied-down” plan with its “absolute minimum” components.Each of Wayne’s three plans would build upon the current LB 34 in the following way and would build upon one another in successive motion. Changing school funding was not part of any of the plans that Wayne distributed.“This may not be the answer, but I think it’s the first time that people can sit down and figure out what we’re doing,” Wayne said.<h2>Option 1 (a “better way to do the 3% new relief”)</h2>Owners of different property types would see a different percentage of available tax credits. Wayne said that would help differentiate “grandma down the street” from commercial property owners, businesses and out-of-state land owners:<ul>
 <li>“Owner-occupied” residential: 100% of applicable credit.</li><li>Agricultural land: 100% of applicable credit.</li><li>Residential rental: 95% of applicable credit.</li><li>Commercial property: 50% of applicable credit.</li>
 </ul>That option would also value residential property at a lower rate than actual market value, with one rate for owner-occupied housing and another for residential rental housing. That would require a constitutional amendment.<h2>Option 2 (a 25% reduction in property taxes)</h2>New tax credits to cover funding for the state’s 23 natural resources districts (about $95 million annually) would be created, and the state would reimburse county jails for operating and maintenance expenses. It would also have the state reduce assessed valuations and pay for the change in value. That would leave the state on the hook for:<ul>
 <li>Owner-occupied: 5% of assessed value.</li><li>Agricultural land: 27% of assessed value.</li><li>Residential rental: 5% of assessed value.</li><li>Commercial property: 0% of assessed value (no adjustment).</li>
 </ul>That option would also embrace LB 73 and LB 39, from McDonnell and State Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha, respectively.McDonnell’s LB 73 would expand income eligibility to include adjustments by changes in the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s House Price Index, which is greater than inflation in the Consumer Price Index.Kauth’s LB 39 would restore homestead exemption eligibility to some Nebraskans who qualified in the past three years but, because of rising valuations, became ineligible.With the expanded relief, Wayne would have the state increase “sin” taxes on six goods:<ul>
 <li>Cigarettes —&nbsp;$1 per pack of 20 (up from 64 cents).</li><li>Spirits —&nbsp;$5 per gallon (up from $3.75 per gallon).</li><li>E-cigarettes (vapes) — 30% wholesale (up from a bifurcated 5-cents per milliliter excise tax on disposable vape liquids and 10% wholesale on other electronic nicotine products).</li><li>Keno (lottery) —&nbsp;20% of gross proceeds (up from 2%).</li><li>Games of skill —&nbsp;20% of net operating revenue for each cash device (up from 5%).</li>
 </ul>New sales taxes would be added to 33 services, ending various exemptions on goods and services including tattoos, skin care services, lobbying work and chartered flights.A new sales tax exemption would be added on residential electricity.<h2>Option 3 (a 40% reduction in property taxes)</h2>Decreasing corporate and individual income tax bracket rates, by 2028, would be paused for one year to save an additional $250 million. Those rates would still reach 3.99% by 2029.The third option would also include LB 47, from Wayne, to remove the franchise tax on financial institutions and instead have them pay the corporate income tax. Candy and soft drinks would also be taxed under the plan.Renters would see additional relief with an income tax reduction up to $2,200, or the full amount of rent paid during the taxable year. That is similar to LB 740 in 2022, from State Sen. Wendy DeBoer of Omaha in 2022, which proposed a deduction of up to $3,000.The earned income tax credit would also be increased from 10% of the federal credit allowed, to 15%.

Term-limited Nebraska lawmakers mount what could be last push for more property tax relief

Post Podcast: Kman's Concert Calendar, week starting Aug. 15

Alliance, NE – West 10 th Street between Ramblin Road and Hwy 385 will be closed for sewer line work, with the projected date of re-opening Friday, August 23, 2024. Please seek alternate routes during this time.

For more information, contact Ross Grant at (308) 762-1907.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – West 10 th Street between Ramblin Road and Hwy 385 will be closed for sewer line work, with the projected date of re-opening Friday, August 23, 2024. Please seek alternate routes during this time.For more information, contact Ross Grant at (308) 762-1907.

Street closure on West 10th Street between Ramblin Road and Highway 385

SIDNEY, Neb. -&nbsp;Registration is open for Western Nebraska Community College's next Construction Trades program, an Entry-Level Plumbing course in Sidney starting on October 1.

The Entry-Level Plumbing course is intended for students interested in entering the plumbing industry. The program is designed to help students get their foot-in-the door as a helper or with a goal of being an plumbing apprentice in a 20-week timeframe.

The course is scheduled to complete on February 15, 2025, with classes occurring Tuesday and Thursday evenings (6-9 p.m.), and Saturdays from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Classes will take place at the WNCC Sidney Campus and at 832 11th Avenue in Sidney.

Tuition for the electrical course is $3,750. Financial aid is available through the Nebraska Career Scholarship and Community College Gap Funding for those who qualify.

Upon completion of the program, students will earn a National Center for Construction Education and Research certification.&nbsp;NCCER is a recognized leader in construction and maintenance curriculum.

To register for the course or for more information, contact Rob Conn, construction trades director at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:connr9@wncc.edu" target="_blank">connr9@wncc.edu</a>&nbsp;or 308.635.6733.

By WNCCSIDNEY, Neb. -&nbsp;Registration is open for Western Nebraska Community College's next Construction Trades program, an Entry-Level Plumbing course in Sidney starting on October 1.The Entry-Level Plumbing course is intended for students interested in entering the plumbing industry. The program is designed to help students get their foot-in-the door as a helper or with a goal of being an plumbing apprentice in a 20-week timeframe.The course is scheduled to complete on February 15, 2025, with classes occurring Tuesday and Thursday evenings (6-9 p.m.), and Saturdays from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Classes will take place at the WNCC Sidney Campus and at 832 11th Avenue in Sidney.Tuition for the electrical course is $3,750. Financial aid is available through the Nebraska Career Scholarship and Community College Gap Funding for those who qualify.Upon completion of the program, students will earn a National Center for Construction Education and Research certification.&nbsp;NCCER is a recognized leader in construction and maintenance curriculum.To register for the course or for more information, contact Rob Conn, construction trades director at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:connr9@wncc.edu" target="_blank">connr9@wncc.edu</a>&nbsp;or 308.635.6733.

WNCC Construction Trades offering Plumbing course in Sidney

The current water restrictions in place will remain due to a failure of a primary maintenance pump at the water treatment plant. This pump supplied pressure to vital components of the treatment and filtration process. With the loss of this pump the plant was unable to deliver treated water to the storage tanks which supply the City of Crawford. At the time of the failure the treated storage tanks were at full capacity. The stored water is what has been supplying the town with treated water during these restrictions.

The Water Department has worked hard to come up with solutions to the problem. With State involvement and approval, a bypass and secondary treatment process has been developed. The team in the Water Department is currently in the process of implementing this temporary solution.

The replacement pumps were ordered 2 months ago with a 14 week build time and with a push from the Water Dept. the replacement pumps are complete and in transit to Crawford.

We’ll provide more information as we receive it and thank everyone for their assistance and support!

By City of CrawfordThe current water restrictions in place will remain due to a failure of a primary maintenance pump at the water treatment plant. This pump supplied pressure to vital components of the treatment and filtration process. With the loss of this pump the plant was unable to deliver treated water to the storage tanks which supply the City of Crawford. At the time of the failure the treated storage tanks were at full capacity. The stored water is what has been supplying the town with treated water during these restrictions.The Water Department has worked hard to come up with solutions to the problem. With State involvement and approval, a bypass and secondary treatment process has been developed. The team in the Water Department is currently in the process of implementing this temporary solution.The replacement pumps were ordered 2 months ago with a 14 week build time and with a push from the Water Dept. the replacement pumps are complete and in transit to Crawford.We’ll provide more information as we receive it and thank everyone for their assistance and support!

City of Crawford water restrictions continue 

Airborne Operation 2-134th Infantry Battalion exercise to be held at Fort Rob. 

Scottsbluff Public Schools will resume their schedules for the 2024/25 school year on Thursday, August 15 th , 2024 (first day for students). This will increase pedestrian traffic in and around the city throughout the school/work week.

Motorists are cautioned to be aware of the increased number of children traveling to and from the schools. Motorists must remain vigilant when approaching intersections controlled by crossing guards and stop when signaled. Very important - If a guard is present in the intersection all traffic must halt until the guard and children have cleared the roadway. This includes making left and right hand turns when the guard or pedestrians are present.

If a crosswalk not controlled by a crossing guard is occupied by a pedestrian with intention of crossing the street the pedestrian has the right of way and traffic should yield to them. The only exceptions to this is at intersections controlled by a traffic control signal or guard.

Parents in the community are reminded that school is in session and it is important for both parents and students to know the following recommendations for school safety:

 Know the routes your children take to school and how long it takes them to get to and from school. Do not allow them to take shortcuts that could be dangerous.

 Have your children walk on sidewalks. If there are no sidewalks, walk single file on busy

roads and cross the street at intersections only. Encourage children to travel along routes where crossing guards can assist with the crossing of more heavily traveled roadways.

 Instruct your children to stay away from strangers and strange vehicles. If someone who is a stranger should approach your child, have them report it immediately.

 Direct your children to never accept rides from anyone other than persons you have designated beforehand.

 Notify school officials and daycare providers who are authorized to pick up your children.

 Have your school’s principal notify you immediately if one of your children is absent.

 Teach your children how to use the phone to dial 9-1-1 and how to call home collect. At the earliest age possible, have your children memorize their full name, phone number and address.

 Take note of the clothes your children wear to school each day, so if necessary, you can describe what your child was wearing.

 Know your children’s friends, their addresses, and how to reach them in the event your child fails to return home on time after school.

 Have a plan in place for your children to follow if they get home and no adult is present.

 Have a list of people your child can call for advice, or if there is an emergency.

 Have a well-defined list of what your children can and cannot do when they are home alone.

 Encourage your children NOT TO WEAR headphones and/or use their phone while walking or crossing streets to ensure that traffic is heard approaching them.

Anyone with questions or concerns with pedestrian traffic is encouraged to call the police department.

By Scottsbluff Police DepartmentScottsbluff Public Schools will resume their schedules for the 2024/25 school year on Thursday, August 15 th , 2024 (first day for students). This will increase pedestrian traffic in and around the city throughout the school/work week.Motorists are cautioned to be aware of the increased number of children traveling to and from the schools. Motorists must remain vigilant when approaching intersections controlled by crossing guards and stop when signaled. Very important - If a guard is present in the intersection all traffic must halt until the guard and children have cleared the roadway. This includes making left and right hand turns when the guard or pedestrians are present.If a crosswalk not controlled by a crossing guard is occupied by a pedestrian with intention of crossing the street the pedestrian has the right of way and traffic should yield to them. The only exceptions to this is at intersections controlled by a traffic control signal or guard.Parents in the community are reminded that school is in session and it is important for both parents and students to know the following recommendations for school safety: Know the routes your children take to school and how long it takes them to get to and from school. Do not allow them to take shortcuts that could be dangerous. Have your children walk on sidewalks. If there are no sidewalks, walk single file on busyroads and cross the street at intersections only. Encourage children to travel along routes where crossing guards can assist with the crossing of more heavily traveled roadways. Instruct your children to stay away from strangers and strange vehicles. If someone who is a stranger should approach your child, have them report it immediately. Direct your children to never accept rides from anyone other than persons you have designated beforehand. Notify school officials and daycare providers who are authorized to pick up your children. Have your school’s principal notify you immediately if one of your children is absent. Teach your children how to use the phone to dial 9-1-1 and how to call home collect. At the earliest age possible, have your children memorize their full name, phone number and address. Take note of the clothes your children wear to school each day, so if necessary, you can describe what your child was wearing. Know your children’s friends, their addresses, and how to reach them in the event your child fails to return home on time after school. Have a plan in place for your children to follow if they get home and no adult is present. Have a list of people your child can call for advice, or if there is an emergency. Have a well-defined list of what your children can and cannot do when they are home alone. Encourage your children NOT TO WEAR headphones and/or use their phone while walking or crossing streets to ensure that traffic is heard approaching them.Anyone with questions or concerns with pedestrian traffic is encouraged to call the police department.

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An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held on Thursday, August 15th, from 9am-3pm at the Berean Church in Alliance.&nbsp;

The drive is in memory of Jana VanHousen, who lost her life last year to cancer.&nbsp; Jana relied on Red Cross blood frequently—sometimes 3 or more times per week—during her cancer battle.&nbsp; She was so grateful that blood transfusions were available to help sustain her. Her family and friends are asking the Alliance community to once again give blood in her honor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723645339151.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held on Thursday, August 15th, from 9am-3pm at the Berean Church in Alliance.&nbsp;The drive is in memory of Jana VanHousen, who lost her life last year to cancer.&nbsp; Jana relied on Red Cross blood frequently—sometimes 3 or more times per week—during her cancer battle.&nbsp; She was so grateful that blood transfusions were available to help sustain her. Her family and friends are asking the Alliance community to once again give blood in her honor.

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