LINCOLN, NEB. –&nbsp;Those interested in learning more about the candidates running for the District 43 seat in the Nebraska Legislature are invited to participate in a candidate forum sponsored by&nbsp;Blaine, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Custer, Dawes, Garfield, Keya Paha, Loup, Rock, and Sheridan&nbsp;County Farm Bureaus.

Thursday, March 5, 2024, at 7 p.m. (CST) at the Ainsworth Community Schools Learning Center, 520 E. 2nd&nbsp;St, Ainsworth, Neb. Please use the south door entrance.

The forum will provide an opportunity for the public to meet and ask questions of the candidates who are seeking to represent the district in the Nebraska Legislature. The event is free and open to the public. Doors will open 30 minutes before the forum begins to enable attendees the opportunity to meet the candidates and submit written questions for consideration at the forum. The forum will last 90 minutes.

All the filed candidates seeking to represent Legislative District 43 have been invited to participate, including&nbsp;Tanya Storer of Whitman and Tony Tangwall of Whitney.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Legislative District 43 encompasses&nbsp;Blaine, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Custer, Dawes, Garfield, Keya Paha, Loup, Rock, and Sheridan&nbsp;Counties. The seat is currently held by Sen. Tom Brewer, who is term limited and unable to seek re-election.

By Nebraska Farm BureauLINCOLN, NEB. –&nbsp;Those interested in learning more about the candidates running for the District 43 seat in the Nebraska Legislature are invited to participate in a candidate forum sponsored by&nbsp;Blaine, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Custer, Dawes, Garfield, Keya Paha, Loup, Rock, and Sheridan&nbsp;County Farm Bureaus.The candidate forum will be held:Thursday, March 5, 2024, at 7 p.m. (CST) at the Ainsworth Community Schools Learning Center, 520 E. 2nd&nbsp;St, Ainsworth, Neb. Please use the south door entrance.The forum will provide an opportunity for the public to meet and ask questions of the candidates who are seeking to represent the district in the Nebraska Legislature. The event is free and open to the public. Doors will open 30 minutes before the forum begins to enable attendees the opportunity to meet the candidates and submit written questions for consideration at the forum. The forum will last 90 minutes.All the filed candidates seeking to represent Legislative District 43 have been invited to participate, including&nbsp;Tanya Storer of Whitman and Tony Tangwall of Whitney.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Legislative District 43 encompasses&nbsp;Blaine, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Custer, Dawes, Garfield, Keya Paha, Loup, Rock, and Sheridan&nbsp;Counties. The seat is currently held by Sen. Tom Brewer, who is term limited and unable to seek re-election.

County Farm Bureaus to Host Legislative District 43 Candidate Forum

WASHINGTON, D.C. –on Wednesday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee,&nbsp;applauded the&nbsp;Federal Communications Commission’s&nbsp;(FCC)&nbsp;recent announcement that the Enhanced Competition Incentive Program&nbsp;has begun&nbsp;accepting applications. The&nbsp;new&nbsp;program incentivizes wireless licensees to make underutilized spectrum airwaves&nbsp;available&nbsp;to small carriers and entities serving rural areas.

In 2015, Senator Fischer introduced&nbsp;the&nbsp;bipartisan&nbsp;Rural Spectrum Accessibility Act&nbsp;with U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). The legislation&nbsp;directed the FCC to establish a program that would provide spectrum license extensions for&nbsp;wireless carriers&nbsp;if they&nbsp;leased underused spectrum&nbsp;to rural and smaller carriers — encouraging collaboration&nbsp;of this vital resource between companies to bridge&nbsp;service gaps in rural areas.

&nbsp;The bill passed into law in 2018. “Ensuring rural areas&nbsp;have access to high-speed internet requires creative solutions like this program, which my legislation&nbsp;created. I strongly encourage wireless&nbsp;carriers to take advantage of&nbsp;these&nbsp;incentives&nbsp;so that rural providers can&nbsp;help expand&nbsp;high-speed internet&nbsp;to&nbsp;all Americans — no matter where they live,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

By Office of Sen. Deb FischerWASHINGTON, D.C. –on Wednesday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee,&nbsp;applauded the&nbsp;Federal Communications Commission’s&nbsp;(FCC)&nbsp;recent announcement that the Enhanced Competition Incentive Program&nbsp;has begun&nbsp;accepting applications. The&nbsp;new&nbsp;program incentivizes wireless licensees to make underutilized spectrum airwaves&nbsp;available&nbsp;to small carriers and entities serving rural areas.In 2015, Senator Fischer introduced&nbsp;the&nbsp;bipartisan&nbsp;Rural Spectrum Accessibility Act&nbsp;with U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). The legislation&nbsp;directed the FCC to establish a program that would provide spectrum license extensions for&nbsp;wireless carriers&nbsp;if they&nbsp;leased underused spectrum&nbsp;to rural and smaller carriers — encouraging collaboration&nbsp;of this vital resource between companies to bridge&nbsp;service gaps in rural areas.&nbsp;The bill passed into law in 2018. “Ensuring rural areas&nbsp;have access to high-speed internet requires creative solutions like this program, which my legislation&nbsp;created. I strongly encourage wireless&nbsp;carriers to take advantage of&nbsp;these&nbsp;incentives&nbsp;so that rural providers can&nbsp;help expand&nbsp;high-speed internet&nbsp;to&nbsp;all Americans — no matter where they live,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

Fischer Encourages Wireless Carriers to Consider New FCC Program, Increase Rural Connectivity

Murder at the Juice Joint is March 1 at Arbor Lodge

Come to Arbor Lodge State Historical Park in Nebraska City on March 1 for an evening of fun with Mystery at the Manson: Murder at the Juice Joint. This old-fashioned mystery, which guests may participate in, will take place at Arbor Lodge Mansion at 6:30 p.m.

Participants will receive a character to portray as they arrive at the mansion by 6:15 p.m. Dress as a flapper or gangster or select from our props. Cost is $30, and space is limited for this adults-only event.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. Visit the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9jYWxlbmRhci5vdXRkb29ybmVicmFza2EuZ292P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1OTA4NDEifQ.Oa2XcYc9upaWhj69ZySLhBSY0bkbomeuT4AS7mC_Kjs/s/497221906/br/237486702475-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to buy tickets or for information on adding dinner or lodging.

Reserve sharp-tailed grouse viewing at Niobrara State Park

Experience the sharp-tailed grouse mating dance from a new viewing blind at Niobrara State Park.

Reserve the free viewing blind between March 15 and April 15. The blind holds up to 12 guests. Reserve a spot by calling the park office at 402-857-3373.

Discounted overnight stays at Niobrara SP also are available. Make an early arrival easy by staying at one of the park’s fully equipped cabins or electric campsites. Use promo code “SHARPTAIL24” on the reservation system for discounted weekend rates; weekdays during the offseason already include discounted rates.

Visit the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ldmVudC9zaGFycC10YWlsZWQtZ3JvdXNlLXZpZXdpbmctYXQtbmlvYnJhcmEtc3RhdGUtcGFyay8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU5MDg0MSJ9.3fVVAENweXoNFtBZ58d9NeN4HF3tj0CurXC4-gXA0M4/s/497221906/br/237486702475-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to make a reservation.

Join the National Park Service and Nebraska Game and Parks Commission at 6 p.m. March 23 at Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area for a Night Sky Program.

There will be a discussion on orbits and near misses, with a fun activity on planets. The "near misses" refers to the asteroid&nbsp;4581 Asclepius. This asteroid, comparable in size to a football field, passes in Earth's orbit. In 1989 it came within about six hours, or 450,000 miles, from hitting Earth. March 23 is called Near Miss Day due to the close passage in 1989.&nbsp;

At 9 p.m., join NPS rangers for a special moon-viewing program.

Merritt, renowned for its Sandhills location providing spectacular astronomical views, is a certified International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association.

By Nebraska Game &amp; ParksMurder at the Juice Joint is March 1 at Arbor Lodge Come to Arbor Lodge State Historical Park in Nebraska City on March 1 for an evening of fun with Mystery at the Manson: Murder at the Juice Joint. This old-fashioned mystery, which guests may participate in, will take place at Arbor Lodge Mansion at 6:30 p.m.Participants will receive a character to portray as they arrive at the mansion by 6:15 p.m. Dress as a flapper or gangster or select from our props. Cost is $30, and space is limited for this adults-only event.Tickets must be purchased in advance. Visit the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9jYWxlbmRhci5vdXRkb29ybmVicmFza2EuZ292P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjEuOTA1OTA4NDEifQ.Oa2XcYc9upaWhj69ZySLhBSY0bkbomeuT4AS7mC_Kjs/s/497221906/br/237486702475-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to buy tickets or for information on adding dinner or lodging.Reserve sharp-tailed grouse viewing at Niobrara State ParkExperience the sharp-tailed grouse mating dance from a new viewing blind at Niobrara State Park.Reserve the free viewing blind between March 15 and April 15. The blind holds up to 12 guests. Reserve a spot by calling the park office at 402-857-3373.Discounted overnight stays at Niobrara SP also are available. Make an early arrival easy by staying at one of the park’s fully equipped cabins or electric campsites. Use promo code “SHARPTAIL24” on the reservation system for discounted weekend rates; weekdays during the offseason already include discounted rates.Visit the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ldmVudC9zaGFycC10YWlsZWQtZ3JvdXNlLXZpZXdpbmctYXQtbmlvYnJhcmEtc3RhdGUtcGFyay8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyMS45MDU5MDg0MSJ9.3fVVAENweXoNFtBZ58d9NeN4HF3tj0CurXC4-gXA0M4/s/497221906/br/237486702475-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to make a reservation.Merritt to host Night Sky ProgramJoin the National Park Service and Nebraska Game and Parks Commission at 6 p.m. March 23 at Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area for a Night Sky Program.There will be a discussion on orbits and near misses, with a fun activity on planets. The "near misses" refers to the asteroid&nbsp;4581 Asclepius. This asteroid, comparable in size to a football field, passes in Earth's orbit. In 1989 it came within about six hours, or 450,000 miles, from hitting Earth. March 23 is called Near Miss Day due to the close passage in 1989.&nbsp;At 9 p.m., join NPS rangers for a special moon-viewing program.Meet at the Cedar Bay Campground.Merritt, renowned for its Sandhills location providing spectacular astronomical views, is a certified International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association.

Nebraska state park events coming up in March

Union Pacific plans to invest $3.4 billion in 2024 to support safe operations, renew assets and grow with customers. That’s the equivalent of spending more than $9 million every day to make the railroad safer and generate economic and supply chain activity across its 23-state footprint, boosting local, regional and the national economy.

An estimated 56% of the capital plan, or $1.9 billion will go toward upgrading and replacing infrastructure, such as rail, ties, and ballasts, along with $0.6 billion toward locomotives and equipment.

“We invest to keep our railroad and employees safe, and we will never compromise on that,” said CEO Jim Vena. “We also spend capital dollars to provide a quality service product, and strong service, creating a winning environment for our customers.”

Union Pacific will continue to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/aboutup/community/inside_track/up-wabtec-agreement-it-220726.htm">modernize the locomotive fleet</a>, upgrading older core units. The plan also includes targeted freight car acquisitions to support replacement and growth opportunities.

In addition, we are investing in capacity and technology projects across our network, such as siding extensions, to increase capacity, improve productivity and operational efficiency.

The railroad also will continue to expand its intermodal footprint, supporting business development in targeted, high growth areas, such as Southern California,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/aboutup/community/inside_track/phoenix-intermodal-terminal-it-240207.htm">Phoenix</a>, and Kansas City.

Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/">www.up.com</a>.

The statements and information contained in the news releases provided by Union Pacific speak only as of the date issued. Such information by its nature may become outdated, and investors should not assume that the statements and information contained in Union Pacific's news releases remain current after the date issued. Union Pacific makes no commitment, and disclaims any duty, to update any of this information.

Union PacificUnion Pacific plans to invest $3.4 billion in 2024 to support safe operations, renew assets and grow with customers. That’s the equivalent of spending more than $9 million every day to make the railroad safer and generate economic and supply chain activity across its 23-state footprint, boosting local, regional and the national economy.An estimated 56% of the capital plan, or $1.9 billion will go toward upgrading and replacing infrastructure, such as rail, ties, and ballasts, along with $0.6 billion toward locomotives and equipment.“We invest to keep our railroad and employees safe, and we will never compromise on that,” said CEO Jim Vena. “We also spend capital dollars to provide a quality service product, and strong service, creating a winning environment for our customers.”Union Pacific will continue to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/aboutup/community/inside_track/up-wabtec-agreement-it-220726.htm">modernize the locomotive fleet</a>, upgrading older core units. The plan also includes targeted freight car acquisitions to support replacement and growth opportunities.In addition, we are investing in capacity and technology projects across our network, such as siding extensions, to increase capacity, improve productivity and operational efficiency.The railroad also will continue to expand its intermodal footprint, supporting business development in targeted, high growth areas, such as Southern California,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/aboutup/community/inside_track/phoenix-intermodal-terminal-it-240207.htm">Phoenix</a>, and Kansas City.<h2>About Union Pacific</h2>Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/">www.up.com</a>.<ul>
 <li><a href="http://www.up.com/">www.up.com</a></li><li><a href="http://www.facebook.com/unionpacific">www.facebook.com/unionpacific</a></li><li><a href="http://www.twitter.com/unionpacific">www.twitter.com/unionpacific</a></li>
 </ul>The statements and information contained in the news releases provided by Union Pacific speak only as of the date issued. Such information by its nature may become outdated, and investors should not assume that the statements and information contained in Union Pacific's news releases remain current after the date issued. Union Pacific makes no commitment, and disclaims any duty, to update any of this information.

Union Pacific to Invest $3.4 Billion in Capital for Safe Operations, Growth with Customers

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<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/state-lawmakers-advance-detasseling-bill-to-protect-nebraska-youth-workers/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;Nebraska lawmakers moved one step closer Tuesday to clarifying that seed corn producers in Nebraska should hire local youths for detasseling before using temporary, nonimmigrant workers.

<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=55035">Legislative Bill 844</a>, introduced by State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard, would clarify in the Farm Labor Standards Act that seed corn producers are required to solicit bids from contractors who seasonally employ largely younger workers who are recruited locally before H-2A workers.

Erdman said this would protect young people who want to detassel but cannot find work.

“This is an opportunity for us to protect the local workforce,” he said during floor debate.

Federal law stipulates that H-2A workers, or temporary, nonimmigrant workers allowed to perform seasonal agricultural labor, may be hired when “there are not sufficient workers who are able, willing and qualified.”

Erdman said LB 844 is “very simple, straightforward” and would help workforce development, while requiring the state to follow federal law.

Under the bill, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture website would post a directory listing information for exempt detasseling and roguing contractors. The department would annually distribute a list of such contractors to seed corn producers by Jan. 15 each year, beginning in 2026.

State Sen. Steve Halloran of Hastings, chair of the Agriculture Committee, which advanced Erdman’s bill&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/CS/LB844.pdf">7-0</a>, said it has been particularly exciting to see the enthusiasm of the youths who testified in favor of LB 844. He said they want to continue to work hard and have similar opportunities in the future.

“I think it’s an opportunity for the young people in Nebraska to understand that we’ve taken their concerns to heart and we’ll make it available to them to work hard,” Erdman said of his bill.

LB 844 advanced to second-round debate&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=10096">36-0</a>.

Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/state-lawmakers-advance-detasseling-bill-to-protect-nebraska-youth-workers/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;Nebraska lawmakers moved one step closer Tuesday to clarifying that seed corn producers in Nebraska should hire local youths for detasseling before using temporary, nonimmigrant workers.<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=55035">Legislative Bill 844</a>, introduced by State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard, would clarify in the Farm Labor Standards Act that seed corn producers are required to solicit bids from contractors who seasonally employ largely younger workers who are recruited locally before H-2A workers.Erdman said this would protect young people who want to detassel but cannot find work.“This is an opportunity for us to protect the local workforce,” he said during floor debate.Federal law stipulates that H-2A workers, or temporary, nonimmigrant workers allowed to perform seasonal agricultural labor, may be hired when “there are not sufficient workers who are able, willing and qualified.”Erdman said LB 844 is “very simple, straightforward” and would help workforce development, while requiring the state to follow federal law.Under the bill, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture website would post a directory listing information for exempt detasseling and roguing contractors. The department would annually distribute a list of such contractors to seed corn producers by Jan. 15 each year, beginning in 2026.State Sen. Steve Halloran of Hastings, chair of the Agriculture Committee, which advanced Erdman’s bill&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/CS/LB844.pdf">7-0</a>, said it has been particularly exciting to see the enthusiasm of the youths who testified in favor of LB 844. He said they want to continue to work hard and have similar opportunities in the future.“I think it’s an opportunity for the young people in Nebraska to understand that we’ve taken their concerns to heart and we’ll make it available to them to work hard,” Erdman said of his bill.LB 844 advanced to second-round debate&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=10096">36-0</a>.

State lawmakers advance detasseling bill to protect Nebraska youth workers

Nebraska District Court Judge Travis P. O’Gorman from Alliance, Nebraska, was invited to sit with the Nebraska Supreme Court on February 8, 2024.

O’Gorman heard arguments in the case of S-21-0364,&nbsp;Nieveen v. Tax 106.&nbsp; In that case, Appellant argued that Nebraska’s tax certificate statutes were unconstitutional, and on appeal, the Nebraska Supreme Court determined that the statutes to be constitutional.&nbsp;&nbsp;See Nieveen v. TAX 106,&nbsp;311 Neb. 574, 974 N.W.2d 15 (2022).&nbsp; On further appeal to the Supreme Court of the United States, the Supreme Court of the United States vacated the Nebraska Supreme Court’s decision with directions that it reconsider the case in light of&nbsp;Tyler v. Hennepin County,&nbsp;598 U.S. 631 (2023).&nbsp;

O’Gorman sat in place of Justice Stephanie Stacy, who was recused from the case. The Court session was held in the Supreme Court Courtroom of the Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln.

Seven justices make up the Nebraska Supreme Court: Chief Justice Mike Heavican and six associate justices. On occasion, a justice must recuse him or herself from a case, and a judge from a district court or the Court of Appeals is asked to sit with the Supreme Court.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

supremecourt.nebraska.gov Nebraska District Court Judge Travis P. O’Gorman from Alliance, Nebraska, was invited to sit with the Nebraska Supreme Court on February 8, 2024.O’Gorman heard arguments in the case of S-21-0364,&nbsp;Nieveen v. Tax 106.&nbsp; In that case, Appellant argued that Nebraska’s tax certificate statutes were unconstitutional, and on appeal, the Nebraska Supreme Court determined that the statutes to be constitutional.&nbsp;&nbsp;See Nieveen v. TAX 106,&nbsp;311 Neb. 574, 974 N.W.2d 15 (2022).&nbsp; On further appeal to the Supreme Court of the United States, the Supreme Court of the United States vacated the Nebraska Supreme Court’s decision with directions that it reconsider the case in light of&nbsp;Tyler v. Hennepin County,&nbsp;598 U.S. 631 (2023).&nbsp;O’Gorman sat in place of Justice Stephanie Stacy, who was recused from the case. The Court session was held in the Supreme Court Courtroom of the Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln.Seven justices make up the Nebraska Supreme Court: Chief Justice Mike Heavican and six associate justices. On occasion, a justice must recuse him or herself from a case, and a judge from a district court or the Court of Appeals is asked to sit with the Supreme Court.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

District Court Judge Travis O’Gorman Joins Nebraska Supreme Court for Argument Session in Lincoln

By Jessica Groskopf, Director,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Women in Agriculture Program

An upcoming four-part&nbsp;extension&nbsp;workshop for women in agriculture will focus on emergency preparedness for rural families.

The program will be a four-part series held at numerous locations across&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;and Indiana. The series will focus on farm and ranch emergency management, first aid, fire protection, and hazardous materials. Workshops will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. CT on March 5, 7, 12 and 14.

The program is a collaboration between&nbsp;extension&nbsp;women in agriculture programs at the University of&nbsp;Nebraska-Lincoln and Purdue University.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, agricultural occupations have high rates of work-related injuries and deaths. While not all emergencies result in bodily injury or death, they also may cost rural families in other ways.

“Women play a critical role in ensuring the safety of their homes and rural communities,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Women in Agriculture program. “In many farm and ranch families, safety is an important topic, but it sometimes gets overlooked because it does not directly impact profitability.”

Each state’s workshop sites will be hosted by local&nbsp;extension&nbsp;personnel. Keynote speakers will be simulcast to each location, and each site will provide additional speakers and hands-on activities. Dinner will be included.

Groskopf said the program’s structure is intended to strengthen networks of women in rural areas, which can provide opportunities for building trust and sharing information. “Connections are so important to rural women,” she said. “We have seen the benefits that come from knowing your peers, having a place to share difficulties, and mitigate the isolation that so many of us in agriculture often feel.”

The workshops seek to help participants initiate preventative practices, set up a plan to deal with emergencies before they occur and be more comfortable reacting to emergency situations.

There is a registration fee of $50 per person before Feb. 20. The fee increases to $60 per person after Feb. 20. Participants should plan to attend each session.&nbsp;

A virtual option is available for those unable to attend a workshop site, although in-person attendance is highly encouraged to better network with other attendees and interact with speakers. The virtual registration fee is $75 before Feb. 20 and $80 after Feb. 20. Registration may be completed on the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Women in Agriculture website,&nbsp;<a href="https://wia.unl.edu/prep" target="_blank">https://wia.unl.edu/prep</a>.

This project was supported by a grant from NCRCRD through funding from USDA NIFA Award #2022-51150-38141.&nbsp; ​

Disaster Preparedness for Rural Families&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Workshop Sites

By Jessica Groskopf, Director,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Women in Agriculture Program<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708450243456.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Burned out combine in the field. Photo Adobe Stock" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Burned out combine in the field. Photo Adobe Stock</figcaption>
 </figure>An upcoming four-part&nbsp;extension&nbsp;workshop for women in agriculture will focus on emergency preparedness for rural families.The program will be a four-part series held at numerous locations across&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;and Indiana. The series will focus on farm and ranch emergency management, first aid, fire protection, and hazardous materials. Workshops will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. CT on March 5, 7, 12 and 14.The program is a collaboration between&nbsp;extension&nbsp;women in agriculture programs at the University of&nbsp;Nebraska-Lincoln and Purdue University.According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, agricultural occupations have high rates of work-related injuries and deaths. While not all emergencies result in bodily injury or death, they also may cost rural families in other ways.“Women play a critical role in ensuring the safety of their homes and rural communities,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Women in Agriculture program. “In many farm and ranch families, safety is an important topic, but it sometimes gets overlooked because it does not directly impact profitability.”Each state’s workshop sites will be hosted by local&nbsp;extension&nbsp;personnel. Keynote speakers will be simulcast to each location, and each site will provide additional speakers and hands-on activities. Dinner will be included.Groskopf said the program’s structure is intended to strengthen networks of women in rural areas, which can provide opportunities for building trust and sharing information. “Connections are so important to rural women,” she said. “We have seen the benefits that come from knowing your peers, having a place to share difficulties, and mitigate the isolation that so many of us in agriculture often feel.”The workshops seek to help participants initiate preventative practices, set up a plan to deal with emergencies before they occur and be more comfortable reacting to emergency situations.There is a registration fee of $50 per person before Feb. 20. The fee increases to $60 per person after Feb. 20. Participants should plan to attend each session.&nbsp;A virtual option is available for those unable to attend a workshop site, although in-person attendance is highly encouraged to better network with other attendees and interact with speakers. The virtual registration fee is $75 before Feb. 20 and $80 after Feb. 20. Registration may be completed on the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Women in Agriculture website,&nbsp;<a href="https://wia.unl.edu/prep" target="_blank">https://wia.unl.edu/prep</a>.This project was supported by a grant from NCRCRD through funding from USDA NIFA Award #2022-51150-38141.&nbsp; ​Disaster Preparedness for Rural Families&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Workshop Sites<ul>
 <li>Beatrice - Beatrice Fire and Rescue, 300 S. 6th St.</li><li>Concord - Haskell Ag Lab, 57905 866 Road</li><li>Grand Island - Raising&nbsp;Nebraska, 501 E. Fonner Park Road, Suite 100</li><li>O‘Neill - Holt County Courthouse Annex, 128 N. 6th St.</li><li>Weeping Water -&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;in Cass County, 8400 144th St., Suite 100</li>
 </ul>

NE Extension hosting multistate emergency preparedness workshop series for rural families

Nebraska&nbsp;4-H is now accepting nominations for a new awards program to recognize the outstanding contributions of 4-H volunteers across the state.The&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;4-H Volunteer Recognition Awards honors adult and youth volunteers, as well as and multi-generational families, who have provided meaningful contributions to&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;4-H. 

One Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award and One Emerging Adult Volunteer Award winner will be chosen for each of the state’s 10&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;Engagement zones. One statewide winner will be named in the each of the youth volunteer and multi-generational family categories.“Our 4-H volunteers go above and beyond to serve&nbsp;Nebraska’s youth every year,” said Jill Goedeken, 4-H Youth Development&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;educator. “We are looking forward to another opportunity to recognize 4-H volunteers for their contributions to youth in&nbsp;Nebraska.”

The nomination period runs through March 15, 2024. Nominations can be submitted by any 4-H member, family, supporter, or&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;staff member. Nominees must fit the award categories and can be a volunteer for any&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;4-H experience. Some examples may include 4-H club leader, project leader, junior leader, county or State Fair volunteer, special interest volunteer (such as robotics or shooting sports), afterschool club volunteer or 4-H camp volunteer. More information, along with the nomination form, is available online at:&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.lt.acemlnb.com/Prod/link-tracker?redirectUrl=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&amp;sig=E3PD1qGHGJG5pYNgSZnerg8YXCPqA4tkZQPMRKnPiNHi&amp;iat=1708034435&amp;a=%7C%7C68108822%7C%7C&amp;account=unl233%2Eactivehosted%2Ecom&amp;email=9wni%2Bpf1xfxqUZRJDYv01zRNixcCpKpD%2FSXAGsspAV446J%2B9lXkhb4xQqg%3D%3D%3AMHTb4he529trNYgOkSjWBnuU6QEWy922&amp;s=1c0e13334109871ac4a92aaba47fd8b6&amp;i=625A722A51A12597" target="_blank">https://4h.unl.edu/volunteer-recognition</a>.Winners will be announced virtually in April 2024. A special awards presentation will take place at the 2024&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;State Fair.###CONTACT:&nbsp;Jill&nbsp;Goedeken, 4-H Volunteer &amp; Professional Development,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Extension, 402-276-5838&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;By Nebraska ExtensionNebraska&nbsp;4-H is now accepting nominations for a new awards program to recognize the outstanding contributions of 4-H volunteers across the state.The&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;4-H Volunteer Recognition Awards honors adult and youth volunteers, as well as and multi-generational families, who have provided meaningful contributions to&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;4-H. One Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award and One Emerging Adult Volunteer Award winner will be chosen for each of the state’s 10&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;Engagement zones. One statewide winner will be named in the each of the youth volunteer and multi-generational family categories.“Our 4-H volunteers go above and beyond to serve&nbsp;Nebraska’s youth every year,” said Jill Goedeken, 4-H Youth Development&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;educator. “We are looking forward to another opportunity to recognize 4-H volunteers for their contributions to youth in&nbsp;Nebraska.”The nomination period runs through March 15, 2024. Nominations can be submitted by any 4-H member, family, supporter, or&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;staff member. Nominees must fit the award categories and can be a volunteer for any&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;4-H experience. Some examples may include 4-H club leader, project leader, junior leader, county or State Fair volunteer, special interest volunteer (such as robotics or shooting sports), afterschool club volunteer or 4-H camp volunteer. More information, along with the nomination form, is available online at:&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.lt.acemlnb.com/Prod/link-tracker?redirectUrl=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&amp;sig=E3PD1qGHGJG5pYNgSZnerg8YXCPqA4tkZQPMRKnPiNHi&amp;iat=1708034435&amp;a=%7C%7C68108822%7C%7C&amp;account=unl233%2Eactivehosted%2Ecom&amp;email=9wni%2Bpf1xfxqUZRJDYv01zRNixcCpKpD%2FSXAGsspAV446J%2B9lXkhb4xQqg%3D%3D%3AMHTb4he529trNYgOkSjWBnuU6QEWy922&amp;s=1c0e13334109871ac4a92aaba47fd8b6&amp;i=625A722A51A12597" target="_blank">https://4h.unl.edu/volunteer-recognition</a>.Winners will be announced virtually in April 2024. A special awards presentation will take place at the 2024&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;State Fair.###CONTACT:&nbsp;Jill&nbsp;Goedeken, 4-H Volunteer &amp; Professional Development,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Extension, 402-276-5838&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska 4-H accepting nominations for annual volunteer recognition awards

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Beaned By 8 Pitches

By Patricia Jones, &nbsp;Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Last week Governor Pillen agreed to accept additional funding from the federal government’s EBT/ food stamp program, increasing amounts to families with children who would not be receiving free or reduced-price school lunches over the summer.

Summer EBT would give those low-income families with school-aged children an EBT card with $40 per month for three months per child to spend on groceries during the summer.

This will provide about $18 million in additional grocery benefits for Nebraskans, serving 80,000 households in our state. In Box Butte County, 944 students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch in our schools. Their additional benefits will be worth $113,280, to be spent in our local grocery stores to feed our hungry children over the summer months!

Governor Pillen had initially refused the federal funds. However, several senators encouraged him to reverse his position. Senator Jen Day introduced legislation that would require the state to opt into the program. When the bill had a public hearing, seventeen people testified in support, 153 people submitted written comments, even high school students lobbied the governor. No one testified or wrote comments in opposition to the bill.

One of the major factors considered by Governor Pillen was Senator Ray Aguilar’s contention that “Rural kids don’t have the networks of support that are available to some other areas of the state.” The governor had initially refused the aid because of Nebraska’s participation in the USDA Summer Food Service Program, which provides meals at some summer school programs and camps, primarily in the Omaha and Lincoln areas.

Even though the state missed the January 1 deadline to opt into the program, Governor Pillen said that USDA officials were excited about Nebraska’s decision to join.

Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will be rolling out additional outreach efforts to reach families who participate in the program. This will include nutritional information and food recommendations, as well as summer activity programs. They are currently working on a web page with details about the program.

Steve Corsi, DHHS director, said that every family that receives Summer EBT will be contacted by DHHS staff to assess their needs and connect them to additional resources they might qualify for.

Families with school-age children whose annual income is less than 185% of the federal poverty level are eligible for the Summer EBT program. The income amount varies based on the size of the household, and charts are available online. Be sure to apply if your household qualified for free or reduced lunch, SNAP, ADC, Medicaid, or if you are foster parents.

By Patricia Jones, &nbsp;Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityLast week Governor Pillen agreed to accept additional funding from the federal government’s EBT/ food stamp program, increasing amounts to families with children who would not be receiving free or reduced-price school lunches over the summer.Summer EBT would give those low-income families with school-aged children an EBT card with $40 per month for three months per child to spend on groceries during the summer.This will provide about $18 million in additional grocery benefits for Nebraskans, serving 80,000 households in our state. In Box Butte County, 944 students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch in our schools. Their additional benefits will be worth $113,280, to be spent in our local grocery stores to feed our hungry children over the summer months!Governor Pillen had initially refused the federal funds. However, several senators encouraged him to reverse his position. Senator Jen Day introduced legislation that would require the state to opt into the program. When the bill had a public hearing, seventeen people testified in support, 153 people submitted written comments, even high school students lobbied the governor. No one testified or wrote comments in opposition to the bill.One of the major factors considered by Governor Pillen was Senator Ray Aguilar’s contention that “Rural kids don’t have the networks of support that are available to some other areas of the state.” The governor had initially refused the aid because of Nebraska’s participation in the USDA Summer Food Service Program, which provides meals at some summer school programs and camps, primarily in the Omaha and Lincoln areas.Even though the state missed the January 1 deadline to opt into the program, Governor Pillen said that USDA officials were excited about Nebraska’s decision to join.Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will be rolling out additional outreach efforts to reach families who participate in the program. This will include nutritional information and food recommendations, as well as summer activity programs. They are currently working on a web page with details about the program.Steve Corsi, DHHS director, said that every family that receives Summer EBT will be contacted by DHHS staff to assess their needs and connect them to additional resources they might qualify for.Families with school-age children whose annual income is less than 185% of the federal poverty level are eligible for the Summer EBT program. The income amount varies based on the size of the household, and charts are available online. Be sure to apply if your household qualified for free or reduced lunch, SNAP, ADC, Medicaid, or if you are foster parents.

Getting Ahead: Summer EBT is approved in Nebraska

&nbsp; By JOHN E. WEARE KAB&nbsp;&nbsp;

Window seat by the wing – a prime perch even on a red eye flight from DIA to San Diego. Not much in view after leaving the Front Range behind until the glowing expanse of Los Angeles appeared on the horizon – soon the lights of our destination appeared and took on more resolution as the plane descended. Today became tomorrow on the ride to the Catamaran Resort and Hotel with a few more first impressions before the opening of the Keep America Beautiful 2024 National Conference Feb. 12.

Seeing a new place for the first time in the dark lends a certain appreciation when you witness it the next morning. A deep orange line and the blue of Mission Bay at sunrise came to mind as the conference officially opened after lunch with “The Power Of Beauty” as its theme. I had time to marvel at the trees and tropical plants on the hotel grounds and watch the Pacific Ocean surf crash on the shore before sitting down to hear about the organization’s emphasis on beauty. What a great backdrop to discuss a quality that can be found anywhere, even though it can take determination for beauty to shine through.

Attending with Keep Alliance Beautiful Executive Director Kathy Worley, this was my third national conference after traveling to Washington, D.C. and Memphis. I cannot recall, offhand, the themes of the previous gatherings. What has stayed with me, however, is valuable information shared by presenters and fellow affiliates from throughout the country during a shift in perspective. Like before, I am still digesting takeaways from a variety of sessions and what could be replicated here. In the coming weeks I plan to expound on relevant issues and topics I found interesting.

For now there are small things that stood out:

&gt; Numerous pieces of plastic litter, mostly smaller than a quarter, on the sand after a sweep by the beach patrol.

&gt; Moths and butterflies, respectively, figured prominently in two presentations that really spoke to me.

&gt; Description of the devastation from fires and efforts to assist people on Maui amidst Polynesian fare and dancing at the welcome reception.

&gt; The stories and images of Martin Luther King Jr. murals in three cities.

&gt; Slides of electric scooters fished out of a river.

While playing the highlight reel in my mind, it stopped on a memory from the first night as I met a few of the resident animals. Arlo, a black cat (with the maintenance department his tag said) went to say hi to a pair of mallard ducks in the pool who swam out of reach. Just one of the moments that made the conference unique.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708444694486.jpeg" alt="View of Mission Bay from the Catamaran Hotel during the Keep America Beautiful National Conference." />
 <figcaption>View of Mission Bay from the Catamaran Hotel during the Keep America Beautiful National Conference.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; By JOHN E. WEARE KAB&nbsp;&nbsp;Window seat by the wing – a prime perch even on a red eye flight from DIA to San Diego. Not much in view after leaving the Front Range behind until the glowing expanse of Los Angeles appeared on the horizon – soon the lights of our destination appeared and took on more resolution as the plane descended. Today became tomorrow on the ride to the Catamaran Resort and Hotel with a few more first impressions before the opening of the Keep America Beautiful 2024 National Conference Feb. 12.Seeing a new place for the first time in the dark lends a certain appreciation when you witness it the next morning. A deep orange line and the blue of Mission Bay at sunrise came to mind as the conference officially opened after lunch with “The Power Of Beauty” as its theme. I had time to marvel at the trees and tropical plants on the hotel grounds and watch the Pacific Ocean surf crash on the shore before sitting down to hear about the organization’s emphasis on beauty. What a great backdrop to discuss a quality that can be found anywhere, even though it can take determination for beauty to shine through.Attending with Keep Alliance Beautiful Executive Director Kathy Worley, this was my third national conference after traveling to Washington, D.C. and Memphis. I cannot recall, offhand, the themes of the previous gatherings. What has stayed with me, however, is valuable information shared by presenters and fellow affiliates from throughout the country during a shift in perspective. Like before, I am still digesting takeaways from a variety of sessions and what could be replicated here. In the coming weeks I plan to expound on relevant issues and topics I found interesting.For now there are small things that stood out:&gt; Numerous pieces of plastic litter, mostly smaller than a quarter, on the sand after a sweep by the beach patrol.&gt; Moths and butterflies, respectively, figured prominently in two presentations that really spoke to me.&gt; Description of the devastation from fires and efforts to assist people on Maui amidst Polynesian fare and dancing at the welcome reception.&gt; The stories and images of Martin Luther King Jr. murals in three cities.&gt; Slides of electric scooters fished out of a river.While playing the highlight reel in my mind, it stopped on a memory from the first night as I met a few of the resident animals. Arlo, a black cat (with the maintenance department his tag said) went to say hi to a pair of mallard ducks in the pool who swam out of reach. Just one of the moments that made the conference unique.

Keep America Beautiful Conference – The Power Of Beauty

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood will launch Nebraska Backs the Blue. Through Nebraska Backs the Blue, Rep. Flood will work with state and local leaders to recruit and retain more law enforcement officers to Nebraska.&nbsp;

From&nbsp;<a href="https://www.klkntv.com/we-do-have-to-do-something-police-shortages-affect-rural-nebraska/" target="_blank">rural communities</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/were-in-a-crisis-nebraska-in-wages-arms-race-to-attract-law-enforcement/44737731" target="_blank">metro areas</a>, Nebraska media have widely reported on the mounting challenge of recruiting law enforcement officers in our state. In recent years, Nebraska has taken steps to address this problem, and this new initiative from Rep. Flood helps spotlight Nebraska as a destination to work in law enforcement.&nbsp;

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood will launch Nebraska Backs the Blue. Through Nebraska Backs the Blue, Rep. Flood will work with state and local leaders to recruit and retain more law enforcement officers to Nebraska.&nbsp;From&nbsp;<a href="https://www.klkntv.com/we-do-have-to-do-something-police-shortages-affect-rural-nebraska/" target="_blank">rural communities</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/were-in-a-crisis-nebraska-in-wages-arms-race-to-attract-law-enforcement/44737731" target="_blank">metro areas</a>, Nebraska media have widely reported on the mounting challenge of recruiting law enforcement officers in our state. In recent years, Nebraska has taken steps to address this problem, and this new initiative from Rep. Flood helps spotlight Nebraska as a destination to work in law enforcement.&nbsp;

 Rep. Flood to Launch “Nebraska Backs the Blue” Today

The Mid-Plains Community College Valentine Campus will offer a class on turkey calling ahead of the spring season. The session will be from 6-8 p.m. March 6 at the campus, 715 U.S. Highway 20, in Valentine.

Instructor Rick Windham will provide a comprehensive introduction to turkey calling and hunting tactics for beginners as well as some advanced techniques.

The fee is $20. Registration can be done online at:&nbsp;<a href="https://bceregister.mpcc.edu/" target="_blank">bceregister.mpcc.edu</a>, by calling (402) 376-8033 or by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:valentine@mpcc.edu">valentine@mpcc.edu</a>.

The 2024 Nebraska turkey season begins March 25 for archery hunting and April 13 for shotgun.

Heather Johnson&nbsp;MPCCThe Mid-Plains Community College Valentine Campus will offer a class on turkey calling ahead of the spring season. The session will be from 6-8 p.m. March 6 at the campus, 715 U.S. Highway 20, in Valentine.Instructor Rick Windham will provide a comprehensive introduction to turkey calling and hunting tactics for beginners as well as some advanced techniques.The fee is $20. Registration can be done online at:&nbsp;<a href="https://bceregister.mpcc.edu/" target="_blank">bceregister.mpcc.edu</a>, by calling (402) 376-8033 or by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:valentine@mpcc.edu">valentine@mpcc.edu</a>.The 2024 Nebraska turkey season begins March 25 for archery hunting and April 13 for shotgun.

MPCC Valentine Campus to host turkey calling class

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A former Nebraska women's basketball player alleges coach Amy Williams and athletic director Trev Alberts did not take appropriate action when her sexual relationship with an assistant coach became widely known.

Ashley Scoggin filed a civil lawsuit in U.S. District Court describing how Chuck Love allegedly took a special interest in her and how the relationship turned sexual and caused Scoggin to fear retaliation if she refused to engage in it.

The lawsuit was filed Sunday and, in addition to Williams and Alberts, names the university's Board of Regents and Love as defendants. Scoggin seeks a jury trial in Lincoln and unspecified damages for the alleged violation of her civil rights.

Williams and a spokesperson for the regents declined to comment. Alberts and Love did not immediately respond to text and emails from The Associated Press seeking comment.

“It's a very troubling and serious subject of predatory coaches that pursue sexual relationships with student-athletes,” Scoggin attorney Maren Chaloupka said. "There's an enormous imbalance of power between the professional coach and student-athletes. This is something that was well known in 2022.

“Certainly Division I universities that operate at the top level are well aware of the harm that comes from this kind of a predatory situation, and there's a strong onus on the university and on the coaches to prevent this from happening and, heaven forbid it does happen, to address is correctly.”

Scoggin played two seasons for the Cornhuskers. She was dismissed from the team on the same day Love was suspended with pay in February 2022.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-basketball-college-nebraska-womens-98044d650d2d3b60a68adb658bd894c3">Love resigned three months later.</a>&nbsp;Scoggin now plays at UNLV.

Williams and Alberts are accused of not setting rules, training or policies prohibiting staff members from having sexual relationships with athletes, with the lawsuit alleging that the lack of safeguards “was so reckless that misconduct involving sexual misconduct by coaches was inevitable as of September 2021."

Scoggin had an internship in the athletic department in the summer of 2021 and she expressed interest in becoming a coach someday. Love invited Scoggin to work at a small table in his office, and she accepted.

Love asked Scoggin personal questions, including the type of alcohol she preferred, and Love began asking her to go out for drinks with him. Scoggin declined several invitations but eventually accepted one. A few days later, they met late at night in a Costco parking lot, where Love kissed her and asked, “Have you ever done anything with a coach before?”

The interaction left Scoggin feeling “confused and trapped” because “it was now undeniable that Love wanted a sexual relationship.” Once the relationship turned sexual, Love expected Scoggin to be “available and willing” whenever he wanted to have sex and included summoning her to his hotel room when the team traveled for away games.

On the night before a game at Penn State in February 2022, team members and practice players created a ruse to confirm and videotape Scoggin's presence in Love's hotel room. A male practice player falsely represented himself to the desk clerk as Love to obtain a duplicate room key. Two team members confronted Scoggin in Love's room. They reported their findings and showed the video to Williams.

“Williams cast Ashley in the role of a seducer and a liar,” the lawsuit said. “She allowed the players to berate and accuse Ashley for hours. She did not redirect or counsel the players that what they had seen may be the result of an abuse of power by her associate head coach.”

Upon returning to Lincoln, Scoggin was not informed of her rights under Title IX and in a meeting with Williams and other members of the administration was told she was off the team, according to the complaint.

Scoggin's dismissal and Love's suspension were reported simultaneously by the media.

“NU, Williams and Alberts were motivated to avoid scandal and embarrassment to the Cornhuskers women's basketball program instead of being motivated to protect its student-athlete, Ashley," the lawsuit said.

“NU, Williams and Alberts allowed the speculation and perception to fester that Ashley was ‘equally to blame’ or otherwise had done something improper when they should have sent a clear message that it is always improper for a professional coach to pursue a sexual relationship with a student-athlete.”

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A former Nebraska women's basketball player alleges coach Amy Williams and athletic director Trev Alberts did not take appropriate action when her sexual relationship with an assistant coach became widely known.Ashley Scoggin filed a civil lawsuit in U.S. District Court describing how Chuck Love allegedly took a special interest in her and how the relationship turned sexual and caused Scoggin to fear retaliation if she refused to engage in it.The lawsuit was filed Sunday and, in addition to Williams and Alberts, names the university's Board of Regents and Love as defendants. Scoggin seeks a jury trial in Lincoln and unspecified damages for the alleged violation of her civil rights.Williams and a spokesperson for the regents declined to comment. Alberts and Love did not immediately respond to text and emails from The Associated Press seeking comment.“It's a very troubling and serious subject of predatory coaches that pursue sexual relationships with student-athletes,” Scoggin attorney Maren Chaloupka said. "There's an enormous imbalance of power between the professional coach and student-athletes. This is something that was well known in 2022.“Certainly Division I universities that operate at the top level are well aware of the harm that comes from this kind of a predatory situation, and there's a strong onus on the university and on the coaches to prevent this from happening and, heaven forbid it does happen, to address is correctly.”Scoggin played two seasons for the Cornhuskers. She was dismissed from the team on the same day Love was suspended with pay in February 2022.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-basketball-college-nebraska-womens-98044d650d2d3b60a68adb658bd894c3">Love resigned three months later.</a>&nbsp;Scoggin now plays at UNLV.Williams and Alberts are accused of not setting rules, training or policies prohibiting staff members from having sexual relationships with athletes, with the lawsuit alleging that the lack of safeguards “was so reckless that misconduct involving sexual misconduct by coaches was inevitable as of September 2021."According to the lawsuit:Scoggin had an internship in the athletic department in the summer of 2021 and she expressed interest in becoming a coach someday. Love invited Scoggin to work at a small table in his office, and she accepted.Love asked Scoggin personal questions, including the type of alcohol she preferred, and Love began asking her to go out for drinks with him. Scoggin declined several invitations but eventually accepted one. A few days later, they met late at night in a Costco parking lot, where Love kissed her and asked, “Have you ever done anything with a coach before?”The interaction left Scoggin feeling “confused and trapped” because “it was now undeniable that Love wanted a sexual relationship.” Once the relationship turned sexual, Love expected Scoggin to be “available and willing” whenever he wanted to have sex and included summoning her to his hotel room when the team traveled for away games.On the night before a game at Penn State in February 2022, team members and practice players created a ruse to confirm and videotape Scoggin's presence in Love's hotel room. A male practice player falsely represented himself to the desk clerk as Love to obtain a duplicate room key. Two team members confronted Scoggin in Love's room. They reported their findings and showed the video to Williams.“Williams cast Ashley in the role of a seducer and a liar,” the lawsuit said. “She allowed the players to berate and accuse Ashley for hours. She did not redirect or counsel the players that what they had seen may be the result of an abuse of power by her associate head coach.”Upon returning to Lincoln, Scoggin was not informed of her rights under Title IX and in a meeting with Williams and other members of the administration was told she was off the team, according to the complaint.Scoggin's dismissal and Love's suspension were reported simultaneously by the media.“NU, Williams and Alberts were motivated to avoid scandal and embarrassment to the Cornhuskers women's basketball program instead of being motivated to protect its student-athlete, Ashley," the lawsuit said.“NU, Williams and Alberts allowed the speculation and perception to fester that Ashley was ‘equally to blame’ or otherwise had done something improper when they should have sent a clear message that it is always improper for a professional coach to pursue a sexual relationship with a student-athlete.”

Former Huskers Women's basketball player is suing University

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Wrestling Wrapup

By&nbsp;Jewel Cave National Monument

CUSTER, SD – Jewel Cave National Monument will be completing important elevator maintenance Tuesday, February 20, through Friday, February 23. To ensure visitor and construction worker safety, all ranger-guided cave tours will be suspended throughout the duration of the project. Regularly scheduled cave tours are expected to resume Saturday, February 24, 2024.

The visitor center, park store, and surface trails will remain open Wednesday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and closed Sunday through Tuesday.

Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/jeca" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/jeca</a>, as well as on social media through Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/JewelCaveNPS/" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/JewelCaveNPS/</a>&nbsp;and Instagram at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.instagram.com/jewelcavenps" target="_blank">www.instagram.com/jewelcavenps</a>.

By&nbsp;Jewel Cave National MonumentCUSTER, SD – Jewel Cave National Monument will be completing important elevator maintenance Tuesday, February 20, through Friday, February 23. To ensure visitor and construction worker safety, all ranger-guided cave tours will be suspended throughout the duration of the project. Regularly scheduled cave tours are expected to resume Saturday, February 24, 2024.The visitor center, park store, and surface trails will remain open Wednesday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and closed Sunday through Tuesday.Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/jeca" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/jeca</a>, as well as on social media through Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/JewelCaveNPS/" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/JewelCaveNPS/</a>&nbsp;and Instagram at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.instagram.com/jewelcavenps" target="_blank">www.instagram.com/jewelcavenps</a>.

Temporary suspension of Jewel Cave Tours in South Dakota

By Scottsbluff&nbsp;Patrol Sgt. Andrew Soucie

On February 16 at approximately 9:02 PM, Scottsbluff Officers responded to a report of a vehicle stuck on the railroad tracks near the 100 block of East Overland. 

While Officers were responding, the vehicle was reported to have been struck by an oncoming train. Upon investigation, it was learned that 25-year-old Gering resident, Alyssia Monson, had become disoriented following her phone’s GPS, which she said had led her to the area of the railroad tracks behind 102 East Overland Drive and instructed her to turn around. 

Monson was driving a 2006 green Subaru Outback. 

The green Subaru Outback attempted to turn around in the area and became stuck and hung up on the east bound BNSF railway track with an approaching eastbound train. 

Monson was the only occupant of the vehicle and had exited to find help prior to the vehicle being struck by the oncoming train. 

 The Subaru Outback received disabling damage and is believed to be totaled.&nbsp; The vehicle was towed from the scene. 

Due to the collision, the eastbound train was stopped pending the investigation and inspection of the train and rails.

 The crossings at Broadway, Ave B, West 20th Street, and Ave I were closed due to the stopped train for approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. 

Scottsbluff Police, Scottsbluff Fire, and BNSF employees all assisted in clearing the scene.

 At this time, no citations have been issued. An accident report has been completed.

By Scottsbluff&nbsp;Patrol Sgt. Andrew SoucieOn February 16 at approximately 9:02 PM, Scottsbluff Officers responded to a report of a vehicle stuck on the railroad tracks near the 100 block of East Overland. While Officers were responding, the vehicle was reported to have been struck by an oncoming train. Upon investigation, it was learned that 25-year-old Gering resident, Alyssia Monson, had become disoriented following her phone’s GPS, which she said had led her to the area of the railroad tracks behind 102 East Overland Drive and instructed her to turn around. Monson was driving a 2006 green Subaru Outback. The green Subaru Outback attempted to turn around in the area and became stuck and hung up on the east bound BNSF railway track with an approaching eastbound train. Monson was the only occupant of the vehicle and had exited to find help prior to the vehicle being struck by the oncoming train. No injuries were reported. The Subaru Outback received disabling damage and is believed to be totaled.&nbsp; The vehicle was towed from the scene. Due to the collision, the eastbound train was stopped pending the investigation and inspection of the train and rails. The crossings at Broadway, Ave B, West 20th Street, and Ave I were closed due to the stopped train for approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Scottsbluff Police, Scottsbluff Fire, and BNSF employees all assisted in clearing the scene. At this time, no citations have been issued. An accident report has been completed.

BNSF train strikes Panhandle vehicle

Alliance – The City of Alliance Facilities will be closed Monday, February 19, 2024, in observance of President’s Day. This closure includes the Utility Office, Public Works, Knight Museum &amp;amp; Sandhills Center, Sallows Military Museum, Alliance Public Library, The Senior Center, Public Transit, and the Municipal Building.

The Alliance Municipal Landfill and refuse collection will be closed Saturday, February 17 th, Sunday, February 18 th , and Monday, February 19 th .

Please contact the City Administration Offices at (308) 762-5400 for any questions or for more information.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The City of Alliance Facilities will be closed Monday, February 19, 2024, in observance of President’s Day. This closure includes the Utility Office, Public Works, Knight Museum &amp;amp; Sandhills Center, Sallows Military Museum, Alliance Public Library, The Senior Center, Public Transit, and the Municipal Building.The Alliance Municipal Landfill and refuse collection will be closed Saturday, February 17 th, Sunday, February 18 th , and Monday, February 19 th .Please contact the City Administration Offices at (308) 762-5400 for any questions or for more information.

City of Alliance President's Day closures

Alliance, NE – The article that has been circulating on Facebook concerning allegations against David Leavitt was brought to the City’s attention by David Leavitt himself when he&nbsp;proactively shared at the very beginning of the vetting process his side of the story of the events reported by wpln.org. The City found no news stories or legal actions against Mr. Leavitt corroborating the wpln.org article.

In addition to the standard background check which includes social media, internet searches, and reference checks on Chief Leavitt, Government Professional Solutions&nbsp;researched the issue reported by wpln.org and spoke with relevant witnesses, ultimately finding no reason for Chief Leavitt to be disqualified for consideration of the police chief position.&nbsp;It is important to note that David Leavitt retired from the Metro Nashville Police Department in good standing.

The extensive selection process was completed by four independent groups including executive search consultants Government Professional Solutions (GPS), a Police Review Board consisting of sheriffs and police chiefs in the Panhandle Region, the City’s Civil Service Commission, and the City Manager’s Office, receiving high marks from each group.

By City of Alliance&nbsp;Alliance, NE – The article that has been circulating on Facebook concerning allegations against David Leavitt was brought to the City’s attention by David Leavitt himself when he&nbsp;proactively shared at the very beginning of the vetting process his side of the story of the events reported by wpln.org. The City found no news stories or legal actions against Mr. Leavitt corroborating the wpln.org article.In addition to the standard background check which includes social media, internet searches, and reference checks on Chief Leavitt, Government Professional Solutions&nbsp;researched the issue reported by wpln.org and spoke with relevant witnesses, ultimately finding no reason for Chief Leavitt to be disqualified for consideration of the police chief position.&nbsp;It is important to note that David Leavitt retired from the Metro Nashville Police Department in good standing.The extensive selection process was completed by four independent groups including executive search consultants Government Professional Solutions (GPS), a Police Review Board consisting of sheriffs and police chiefs in the Panhandle Region, the City’s Civil Service Commission, and the City Manager’s Office, receiving high marks from each group.

City of Alliance responds to community outcry over new APD Chief hiring 

The Alliance City Council will meet on Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. in the Alliance Council Chambers in the Alliance Public Library/Learning Center.&nbsp;

For the public's reference a copy of the Open Meetings Law has been posted on the northeast comer of this room in the audience area. This posting complies with the requirements of the Nebraska Legislature.

Approval of Minutes, Council Proceedings, Payroll and Claims

Resolution No. 24-12- Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Agreement

Resolution No. 24-13 - General Election Ballot Request

C. Public Hearing-Ordinance No. 2974 Municipal Code Amendment

Now is the date, time and place to conduct a public hearing on the amendment to the City of Alliance Municipal Code Chapter 107, Article VII titled Minor Subdivisions.

Ordinance No. 2974 Second Reading- Municipal Code Amendment Minor Subdivisions

Ordinance No. 2974 is before City Council on second reading, which will approve and accept the amendment to the City of Alliance Municipal Code Chapter 107, Article VII titled Minor Subdivisions.

D. Ordinance No. 2975 First Reading - Final Plat Hillcrest Addition

Ordinance No. 2975 is before City Council on first reading, which will approve the Final Plat for Lot 9A, Hillcrest Addition, A Replat of Lot 9, Block 3, Hillcrest Addition, to the City of Alliance, and Unplatted Lands in the Southeast Quarter of Section 25, Township 25 North, Range 48 West of the 6th P.M., Box Butte County Nebraska

E. Resolution No. 24-14-AIA Grant Application for Rehab of Taxiways and Apron

Resolution No. 24-14 will accept and approve the application to the Federal Aviation Administration for the seal coat project of Runway 12/30 and Runway 8/26 for the Alliance Municipal Airport.

F. Quarterly Financial Statement Presentation and Acceptance City Treasurer Baker will present the Quarterly Financial Statement to the Council for acceptance.

&nbsp; You can find the full agenda materials on our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cityofalliance.net/" target="_blank">www.cityofalliance.net</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By City of AllianceThe Alliance City Council will meet on Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. in the Alliance Council Chambers in the Alliance Public Library/Learning Center.&nbsp;• Call to Order• Roll Call• Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance• Open Meetings Act AnnouncementAGENDAFor the public's reference a copy of the Open Meetings Law has been posted on the northeast comer of this room in the audience area. This posting complies with the requirements of the Nebraska Legislature.A. Consent CalendarApproval of Minutes, Council Proceedings, Payroll and ClaimsResolution No. 24-12- Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid AgreementResolution No. 24-13 - General Election Ballot RequestB. Proclamation -Chelsie Herian DayC. Public Hearing-Ordinance No. 2974 Municipal Code AmendmentNow is the date, time and place to conduct a public hearing on the amendment to the City of Alliance Municipal Code Chapter 107, Article VII titled Minor Subdivisions.Ordinance No. 2974 Second Reading- Municipal Code Amendment Minor SubdivisionsOrdinance No. 2974 is before City Council on second reading, which will approve and accept the amendment to the City of Alliance Municipal Code Chapter 107, Article VII titled Minor Subdivisions.D. Ordinance No. 2975 First Reading - Final Plat Hillcrest AdditionOrdinance No. 2975 is before City Council on first reading, which will approve the Final Plat for Lot 9A, Hillcrest Addition, A Replat of Lot 9, Block 3, Hillcrest Addition, to the City of Alliance, and Unplatted Lands in the Southeast Quarter of Section 25, Township 25 North, Range 48 West of the 6th P.M., Box Butte County NebraskaE. Resolution No. 24-14-AIA Grant Application for Rehab of Taxiways and ApronResolution No. 24-14 will accept and approve the application to the Federal Aviation Administration for the seal coat project of Runway 12/30 and Runway 8/26 for the Alliance Municipal Airport.F. Quarterly Financial Statement Presentation and Acceptance City Treasurer Baker will present the Quarterly Financial Statement to the Council for acceptance.• Motion to Adjourn&nbsp; You can find the full agenda materials on our website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cityofalliance.net/" target="_blank">www.cityofalliance.net</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alliance City Council Feb. 20 meeting agenda 

The Mission Team from First Presbyterian church of Alliance, Nebraska has scholarship funding available for Native American students who live off the reservation and in the Panhandle of Nebraska. High School graduates or those with a GED are eligible for these scholarships. These scholarships are awarded yearly and are renewable until a degree is earned.

NEWS RELEASEThe Mission Team from First Presbyterian church of Alliance, Nebraska has scholarship funding available for Native American students who live off the reservation and in the Panhandle of Nebraska. High School graduates or those with a GED are eligible for these scholarships. These scholarships are awarded yearly and are renewable until a degree is earned.

Alliance Presbyterian Church Native American scholarships available

In December, President Biden’s team shut down two border rail crossings in Eagle Pass and El Paso, Texas.&nbsp;The&nbsp;administration also falsely implied the&nbsp;closures&nbsp;were necessary for&nbsp;enforcement.&nbsp;In reality,&nbsp;Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents were&nbsp;reassigned&nbsp;to “quickly process individuals”&nbsp;who had crossed&nbsp;the border&nbsp;illegally.&nbsp;Prioritizing&nbsp;the&nbsp;processing&nbsp;of&nbsp;illegal immigrants over facilitating critical trade routes&nbsp;is&nbsp;unacceptable. Shutting down train traffic cost&nbsp;<a>$250 million</a>&nbsp;in commerce per day. This week, I introduced legislation with Senator Ted Cruz&nbsp;(R-TX)&nbsp;to&nbsp;prevent&nbsp;that from happening&nbsp;in the future.

CBP’s decisions directly and immediately impacted rail carriers’ ability to move goods. Mexico is Nebraska’s largest export partner. Eagle Pass and El Paso accounted for 35.8% of all cross-border rail traffic to and from Mexico. According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nefb.org/12/19/2023/nebraska-farm-bureau-calls-for-ending-of-border-rail-crossing-closures/" target="_blank">Nebraska Farm Bureau</a>, this move blocked as many as 60 trains or 10,000 rail cars per day. Farmers and ranchers depend on these trains to get their products to market.&nbsp;Our economy&nbsp;should not have a&nbsp;$250 million per day&nbsp;penalty&nbsp;because Joe Biden&nbsp;refuses to secure our border. Nebraska producers deserved better.

While it’s good news that&nbsp;the&nbsp;CBP reopened rail operations, it should have never happened. We cannot allow American consumers, businesses, and producers to continue paying the price for President Biden’s refusal to secure our border.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Keeping International Land Ports of Entry Open Act&nbsp;I introduced last week would&nbsp;fix this. My bill would stop the Biden administration from diverting staff away from ports of entry, except in specific circumstances.

For example, CBP could&nbsp;divert staff to&nbsp;secure the border.&nbsp;The CBP&nbsp;could not divert staff for administrative work, like processing illegal immigrants. Any staff diversion should not negatively impact the processing of trade through ports of entry. These exceptions codify the common-sense idea that closing a port of entry should be a last resort.

The bill also includes a built-in accountability mechanism. It requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to notify Congress and the American people&nbsp;if the Secretary closes a port or relocates staff. The Secretary would also be required to disclose the exception used.&nbsp;This will force the Biden administration to justify its decisions in writing so&nbsp;Congress and the&nbsp;American&nbsp;people&nbsp;can evaluate those decisions.

Fighting for Nebraska agriculture is a top priority as your Senator. That means protecting our critical trade routes and supply chains. It also means providing critical oversight of any Biden administration decisions that may impact American commerce. We must secure our border. We must also keep freight moving. I’m committed to fighting for the policy solutions we need to accomplish all these goals.

My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us anytime by phone at 202-224-4224 or on my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>.

By Sen. Pete RickettsIn December, President Biden’s team shut down two border rail crossings in Eagle Pass and El Paso, Texas.&nbsp;The&nbsp;administration also falsely implied the&nbsp;closures&nbsp;were necessary for&nbsp;enforcement.&nbsp;In reality,&nbsp;Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents were&nbsp;reassigned&nbsp;to “quickly process individuals”&nbsp;who had crossed&nbsp;the border&nbsp;illegally.&nbsp;Prioritizing&nbsp;the&nbsp;processing&nbsp;of&nbsp;illegal immigrants over facilitating critical trade routes&nbsp;is&nbsp;unacceptable. Shutting down train traffic cost&nbsp;<a>$250 million</a>&nbsp;in commerce per day. This week, I introduced legislation with Senator Ted Cruz&nbsp;(R-TX)&nbsp;to&nbsp;prevent&nbsp;that from happening&nbsp;in the future.CBP’s decisions directly and immediately impacted rail carriers’ ability to move goods. Mexico is Nebraska’s largest export partner. Eagle Pass and El Paso accounted for 35.8% of all cross-border rail traffic to and from Mexico. According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nefb.org/12/19/2023/nebraska-farm-bureau-calls-for-ending-of-border-rail-crossing-closures/" target="_blank">Nebraska Farm Bureau</a>, this move blocked as many as 60 trains or 10,000 rail cars per day. Farmers and ranchers depend on these trains to get their products to market.&nbsp;Our economy&nbsp;should not have a&nbsp;$250 million per day&nbsp;penalty&nbsp;because Joe Biden&nbsp;refuses to secure our border. Nebraska producers deserved better.While it’s good news that&nbsp;the&nbsp;CBP reopened rail operations, it should have never happened. We cannot allow American consumers, businesses, and producers to continue paying the price for President Biden’s refusal to secure our border.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Keeping International Land Ports of Entry Open Act&nbsp;I introduced last week would&nbsp;fix this. My bill would stop the Biden administration from diverting staff away from ports of entry, except in specific circumstances.For example, CBP could&nbsp;divert staff to&nbsp;secure the border.&nbsp;The CBP&nbsp;could not divert staff for administrative work, like processing illegal immigrants. Any staff diversion should not negatively impact the processing of trade through ports of entry. These exceptions codify the common-sense idea that closing a port of entry should be a last resort.The bill also includes a built-in accountability mechanism. It requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to notify Congress and the American people&nbsp;if the Secretary closes a port or relocates staff. The Secretary would also be required to disclose the exception used.&nbsp;This will force the Biden administration to justify its decisions in writing so&nbsp;Congress and the&nbsp;American&nbsp;people&nbsp;can evaluate those decisions.Fighting for Nebraska agriculture is a top priority as your Senator. That means protecting our critical trade routes and supply chains. It also means providing critical oversight of any Biden administration decisions that may impact American commerce. We must secure our border. We must also keep freight moving. I’m committed to fighting for the policy solutions we need to accomplish all these goals.My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us anytime by phone at 202-224-4224 or on my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>.

Senator Ricketts: Keeping International Land Ports of Entry Open

🚨 Public Notice: Clarification Regarding Rumor 🚨

We've become aware of a circulating rumor suggesting that a sexual assault or death investigation occurred at Bower-Shankland field last week or over the weekend. We want to address this rumor directly and provide clarity to our community.

After an initial inquiry into the rumor, we can confirm that there has been no such incident reported at Bower-Shankland Park or anywhere else within the immediate area. 

We understand that rumors like these can evoke fear and concern among residents. Rest assured, the safety and well-being of our community remain our utmost priority. We encourage everyone to refrain from spreading unverified information and to rely on official sources for accurate updates.

If anyone has been assaulted in the area or has any information relevant to this matter, we urge you to come forward so that the appropriate action can be taken, and the matter can be thoroughly investigated.

By Alliance Police Department🚨 Public Notice: Clarification Regarding Rumor 🚨Dear Residents,We've become aware of a circulating rumor suggesting that a sexual assault or death investigation occurred at Bower-Shankland field last week or over the weekend. We want to address this rumor directly and provide clarity to our community.After an initial inquiry into the rumor, we can confirm that there has been no such incident reported at Bower-Shankland Park or anywhere else within the immediate area. We understand that rumors like these can evoke fear and concern among residents. Rest assured, the safety and well-being of our community remain our utmost priority. We encourage everyone to refrain from spreading unverified information and to rely on official sources for accurate updates.If anyone has been assaulted in the area or has any information relevant to this matter, we urge you to come forward so that the appropriate action can be taken, and the matter can be thoroughly investigated.If you have any questions or concerns regarding public safety, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to address any inquiries and ensure the peace and security of our town.Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

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