For the second time as governor of South Dakota, Kristi Noem has been banished from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Last week, the Oglala Sioux Tribe said the Republican governor was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oglala-sioux-reservation-governor-ban-south-dakota-9f811bbd1ffaadf979e4353ad6e961ad">no longer welcome</a>&nbsp;on tribal lands, and its leaders referred to her rhetoric linking immigration and crime as opportunistic and dangerous.

“Our people are being used for her political gain,” said Oglala Sioux Tribe President Frank Star Comes Out.

After Noem suggested last week that the state send razor wire and security personnel to Texas to deter crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border, Star Comes Out accused her of trying to garner favor from former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Noem also said drug cartels are responsible for murders on the reservation and that they're affiliated with a gang called the “Ghost Dancers” — which takes its name from a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-sd-state-wire-massacres-169827052fd1e52c6a0f3a8cbca1a8a3">Native American religious ceremony.</a>&nbsp;Historically, U.S. and state officials viewed the Ghost Dance as a threat of violence and sought to ban it, prompting a painful period of history.

Star Comes Out said the reservation has cartel and gang problems, but singling out a gang with that particular name and history felt like another insult to his people. Noem’s mention of the gang, he said, was the first time he had heard of it or its possible presence on the reservation.

Ian Fury, a spokesperson for Noem’s office, said in a Tuesday email, “All the Governor did was say the name of a gang that in fact exists and is in fact committing the crimes she referenced. She didn’t choose the name of the gang — they named themselves.”

Federal and tribal authorities have criminal jurisdiction on the reservations in South Dakota, and Star Comes Out wants more funding from the U.S. for law enforcement. Noem has previously pushed to expand the state's jurisdiction. In 2018, as a U.S. House Representative, she proposed legislation that would allow federal authorities to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/782c2f6ed46a47b584428ba73aeca487">arrest people on tribal lands for state crimes</a>. It was widely opposed by tribal leaders, who saw it as a threat to tribal sovereignty.

Here are key questions and answers about the governor’s contentious relationship with the tribe.

Tony Mangan, a spokesperson for the South Dakota Attorney General’s office, said the Ghost Dancers are affiliated with a motorcycle gang called the Bandidos. The office does not know if the group is connected to drug cartels, nor does it know if the Ghost Dancers are present on the reservation, Mangan said.

Noem has cited cartels as responsible for homicides on the reservation, though her office didn’t share recent examples. Fury, the governor’s spokesperson, pointed to a 2016 murder on the reservation that was related to a drug cartel, but he declined to provide any information on other gang or cartel-related murders or any connection to the Ghost Dancers.

“Murders are being committed by cartel members on the Pine Ridge reservation and in Rapid City, and a gang called the ‘Ghost Dancers’ are affiliated with these cartels,” Noem said last week in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-kristi-noem-southern-border-dc65622dfd034a968fbc75bad6226781">a speech to state lawmakers.</a>&nbsp;“They have been successful in recruiting tribal members to join their criminal activity."

Star Comes Out, president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, said he had not heard of a gang called the Ghost Dancers until Noem mentioned it in her speech, and that he was unaware of any presence by this gang on the Pine Ridge Reservation.

The Ghost Dance was a religious movement that spread across Native American communities in the U.S. in the late 1800s, after a Paiute elder had a vision that their homelands would be restored and they would be reconnected with their ancestors if they practiced it. He also foresaw the removal of white settlers, whose violence and spread of disease had devastated tribes.

For many, the practice represented resiliency in the face of the tremendous loss brought on by colonization.

The dance involves holding hands and moving in a circle while singing throughout the night. In the early 1890s, U.S. political and military leaders tried to outlaw the Ghost Dance, fearing the movement was a precursor to an uprising in communities it subjugated. Around the country, tribal nations adopted the practice, and in South Dakota it became part of one of America’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-wounded-knee-massacre-dusty-johnson-9b4a42e7c2872476b31ac99faafb5104">most infamous massacres.</a>

In 1890, hoping to stop the spread of the Ghost Dance, federal agents went to the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation to arrest Chief Sitting Bull, who they believed was behind its influence there. After a dispute, agents shot and killed Sitting Bull and several other tribal members. Following this, a group of about 300 Lakota men, women and children left Standing Rock hoping to reach safety at the nearby Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. The group was intercepted by U.S. troops, who killed hundreds of Lakota people in what would become known as the Wounded Knee Massacre.

Multiple times since taking office in 2019, Noem has been at odds with tribal governments.

In response to her support for anti-protest legislation following the 2016 Dakota Access Pipeline protests at Standing Rock, the Oglala Sioux Tribal Council unanimously voted to ban the governor from the reservation in 2019.

Months later, the council lifted the ban after Noem and the American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota reached a settlement, ensuring the state would not enforce parts of the “riot boosting” laws that Noem had crafted.

She also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e802015d46aa3f78e3997d715665854a">clashed with several tribes</a>&nbsp;during the COVID-19 pandemic when they set up coronavirus checkpoints at reservation borders to keep out unnecessary visitors. When Noem was unsuccessful in getting the checkpoints dismantled, she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-police-south-dakota-coronavirus-pandemic-kristi-noem-dd5ee196986decd0c504a21a55255bbb">turned to the Trump administration</a>&nbsp;for help.

Nick Estes, an assistant professor of American Indian Studies at the University of Minnesota and a citizen of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe in South Dakota, said he sees Noem’s adversarial relationship with tribal nations as an attempt to seize a political opportunity and position herself as a strong Republican leader. “It’s obvious signaling to Trump,” he said.

Noem is considered a top&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-stefanik-vice-president-candidate-vance-scott-c193730f0786d5c71f980e2ab248710b">contender for Trump's vice president pick</a>&nbsp;in his re-election campaign.

Star Comes Out said Noem is the first person he has banished since becoming the tribe’s president in 2022. The ban restricts Noem from visiting the reservation.

Yes. Star Comes Out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oglala-sioux-tribe-state-of-emergency-crime-dfd4743a2ee099313884a554f584d282">declared a state of emergency</a>&nbsp;on the reservation in November because of rampant crime that he said hasn’t been curbed due to the U.S. government’s inadequate funding for law enforcement. The state of emergency is still in effect, he said this week.

Last year, a federal judge ruled the U.S. government has a treaty obligation to support law enforcement on the reservation, but didn't determine a specific amount of funding.

Star Comes Out said conditions on the reservation have worsened since the ruling, prompting him to sign an emergency proclamation, which said the U.S. government has failed “to fulfill the United States’ treaty, statutory and trust responsibilities to provide adequate law enforcement on the Reservation.”

Gun violence, drug offenses and sexual violence have become increasingly common on the Pine Ridge reservation, which is more than 2.1 million acres (849,839 hectares) or at least 4% of the state. Roughly 33 officers and eight criminal investigators are responsible for more than 100,000 emergency calls each year across the reservation, which is about the size of Connecticut, tribal officials have said.

Oglala Sioux officials have contended the tribe is entitled to federal funding for 120 fully equipped officers for the reservation, something the federal government has disputed.

The tribal nation filed a second lawsuit against the U.S. government last month to put pressure them to act.

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707499243317.jpeg" alt="A sign hands outside the entrance to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, home to the Oglala Sioux tribe, Sept. 9, 2012. A tribe has banned Republican Gov. Kristi Noem from the Pine Ridge Reservation after she spoke this week about wanting to send razor wire and security personnel to Texas to help deter immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border and also said cartels are infiltrating the state's reservations. (AP Photo/Kristi Eaton, File)" />
 <figcaption>A sign hands outside the entrance to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, home to the Oglala Sioux tribe, Sept. 9, 2012. A tribe has banned Republican Gov. Kristi Noem from the Pine Ridge Reservation after she spoke this week about wanting to send razor wire and security personnel to Texas to help deter immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border and also said cartels are infiltrating the state's reservations. (AP Photo/Kristi Eaton, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>For the second time as governor of South Dakota, Kristi Noem has been banished from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Last week, the Oglala Sioux Tribe said the Republican governor was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oglala-sioux-reservation-governor-ban-south-dakota-9f811bbd1ffaadf979e4353ad6e961ad">no longer welcome</a>&nbsp;on tribal lands, and its leaders referred to her rhetoric linking immigration and crime as opportunistic and dangerous.“Our people are being used for her political gain,” said Oglala Sioux Tribe President Frank Star Comes Out.After Noem suggested last week that the state send razor wire and security personnel to Texas to deter crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border, Star Comes Out accused her of trying to garner favor from former U.S. President Donald Trump.Noem also said drug cartels are responsible for murders on the reservation and that they're affiliated with a gang called the “Ghost Dancers” — which takes its name from a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-sd-state-wire-massacres-169827052fd1e52c6a0f3a8cbca1a8a3">Native American religious ceremony.</a>&nbsp;Historically, U.S. and state officials viewed the Ghost Dance as a threat of violence and sought to ban it, prompting a painful period of history.Star Comes Out said the reservation has cartel and gang problems, but singling out a gang with that particular name and history felt like another insult to his people. Noem’s mention of the gang, he said, was the first time he had heard of it or its possible presence on the reservation.Ian Fury, a spokesperson for Noem’s office, said in a Tuesday email, “All the Governor did was say the name of a gang that in fact exists and is in fact committing the crimes she referenced. She didn’t choose the name of the gang — they named themselves.”Federal and tribal authorities have criminal jurisdiction on the reservations in South Dakota, and Star Comes Out wants more funding from the U.S. for law enforcement. Noem has previously pushed to expand the state's jurisdiction. In 2018, as a U.S. House Representative, she proposed legislation that would allow federal authorities to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/782c2f6ed46a47b584428ba73aeca487">arrest people on tribal lands for state crimes</a>. It was widely opposed by tribal leaders, who saw it as a threat to tribal sovereignty.Here are key questions and answers about the governor’s contentious relationship with the tribe.WHAT IS THE GANG THAT NOEM REFERENCED?Tony Mangan, a spokesperson for the South Dakota Attorney General’s office, said the Ghost Dancers are affiliated with a motorcycle gang called the Bandidos. The office does not know if the group is connected to drug cartels, nor does it know if the Ghost Dancers are present on the reservation, Mangan said.Noem has cited cartels as responsible for homicides on the reservation, though her office didn’t share recent examples. Fury, the governor’s spokesperson, pointed to a 2016 murder on the reservation that was related to a drug cartel, but he declined to provide any information on other gang or cartel-related murders or any connection to the Ghost Dancers.“Murders are being committed by cartel members on the Pine Ridge reservation and in Rapid City, and a gang called the ‘Ghost Dancers’ are affiliated with these cartels,” Noem said last week in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-kristi-noem-southern-border-dc65622dfd034a968fbc75bad6226781">a speech to state lawmakers.</a>&nbsp;“They have been successful in recruiting tribal members to join their criminal activity."Star Comes Out, president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, said he had not heard of a gang called the Ghost Dancers until Noem mentioned it in her speech, and that he was unaware of any presence by this gang on the Pine Ridge Reservation.WHAT IS THE GHOST DANCE?The Ghost Dance was a religious movement that spread across Native American communities in the U.S. in the late 1800s, after a Paiute elder had a vision that their homelands would be restored and they would be reconnected with their ancestors if they practiced it. He also foresaw the removal of white settlers, whose violence and spread of disease had devastated tribes.For many, the practice represented resiliency in the face of the tremendous loss brought on by colonization.The dance involves holding hands and moving in a circle while singing throughout the night. In the early 1890s, U.S. political and military leaders tried to outlaw the Ghost Dance, fearing the movement was a precursor to an uprising in communities it subjugated. Around the country, tribal nations adopted the practice, and in South Dakota it became part of one of America’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-dakota-wounded-knee-massacre-dusty-johnson-9b4a42e7c2872476b31ac99faafb5104">most infamous massacres.</a>In 1890, hoping to stop the spread of the Ghost Dance, federal agents went to the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation to arrest Chief Sitting Bull, who they believed was behind its influence there. After a dispute, agents shot and killed Sitting Bull and several other tribal members. Following this, a group of about 300 Lakota men, women and children left Standing Rock hoping to reach safety at the nearby Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. The group was intercepted by U.S. troops, who killed hundreds of Lakota people in what would become known as the Wounded Knee Massacre.WHY WAS NOEM BANISHED BEFORE?Multiple times since taking office in 2019, Noem has been at odds with tribal governments.In response to her support for anti-protest legislation following the 2016 Dakota Access Pipeline protests at Standing Rock, the Oglala Sioux Tribal Council unanimously voted to ban the governor from the reservation in 2019.Months later, the council lifted the ban after Noem and the American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota reached a settlement, ensuring the state would not enforce parts of the “riot boosting” laws that Noem had crafted.She also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e802015d46aa3f78e3997d715665854a">clashed with several tribes</a>&nbsp;during the COVID-19 pandemic when they set up coronavirus checkpoints at reservation borders to keep out unnecessary visitors. When Noem was unsuccessful in getting the checkpoints dismantled, she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-police-south-dakota-coronavirus-pandemic-kristi-noem-dd5ee196986decd0c504a21a55255bbb">turned to the Trump administration</a>&nbsp;for help.Nick Estes, an assistant professor of American Indian Studies at the University of Minnesota and a citizen of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe in South Dakota, said he sees Noem’s adversarial relationship with tribal nations as an attempt to seize a political opportunity and position herself as a strong Republican leader. “It’s obvious signaling to Trump,” he said.Noem is considered a top&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-stefanik-vice-president-candidate-vance-scott-c193730f0786d5c71f980e2ab248710b">contender for Trump's vice president pick</a>&nbsp;in his re-election campaign.Star Comes Out said Noem is the first person he has banished since becoming the tribe’s president in 2022. The ban restricts Noem from visiting the reservation.IS CRIME A PROBLEM ON THE RESERVATION?Yes. Star Comes Out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oglala-sioux-tribe-state-of-emergency-crime-dfd4743a2ee099313884a554f584d282">declared a state of emergency</a>&nbsp;on the reservation in November because of rampant crime that he said hasn’t been curbed due to the U.S. government’s inadequate funding for law enforcement. The state of emergency is still in effect, he said this week.Last year, a federal judge ruled the U.S. government has a treaty obligation to support law enforcement on the reservation, but didn't determine a specific amount of funding.Star Comes Out said conditions on the reservation have worsened since the ruling, prompting him to sign an emergency proclamation, which said the U.S. government has failed “to fulfill the United States’ treaty, statutory and trust responsibilities to provide adequate law enforcement on the Reservation.”Gun violence, drug offenses and sexual violence have become increasingly common on the Pine Ridge reservation, which is more than 2.1 million acres (849,839 hectares) or at least 4% of the state. Roughly 33 officers and eight criminal investigators are responsible for more than 100,000 emergency calls each year across the reservation, which is about the size of Connecticut, tribal officials have said.Oglala Sioux officials have contended the tribe is entitled to federal funding for 120 fully equipped officers for the reservation, something the federal government has disputed.The tribal nation filed a second lawsuit against the U.S. government last month to put pressure them to act.

What to know about SD Gov. Noem's banishment from Pine Ridge Indian Reservation

&nbsp; The Alliance Police Department urgently seeks your help in locating a missing juvenile, James Scriven. 

James is approximately 13 years old, 5 ft 7 in tall, and weighs 175 lbs. He has brown eyes and black hair and was last seen wearing an orange hoodie.

James was last seen at 2:00 PM on February 8th, 2024, at Alliance Middle School.

If you have any information on James's whereabouts or have seen him since his disappearance, please contact the Alliance Police Department immediately at 308-762-4955.

Your prompt response and cooperation are crucial in ensuring James's safe return to his family.

By Alliance Police Department&nbsp;&nbsp; The Alliance Police Department urgently seeks your help in locating a missing juvenile, James Scriven. James is approximately 13 years old, 5 ft 7 in tall, and weighs 175 lbs. He has brown eyes and black hair and was last seen wearing an orange hoodie.James was last seen at 2:00 PM on February 8th, 2024, at Alliance Middle School.If you have any information on James's whereabouts or have seen him since his disappearance, please contact the Alliance Police Department immediately at 308-762-4955.Your prompt response and cooperation are crucial in ensuring James's safe return to his family.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707520684510.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Alliance police seek help locating missing teen

By Chabella Guzman, Panhandle Research and Extension Center

The 2024 Feedlot Roundtables will be going on next week in Nebraska. The roundtables will begin on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the Prairie Winds Community Center in Bridgeport.&nbsp;

The roundtables will feature programs and new technologies in cattle feeding, a 2024 market outlook, severe weather responses, the 2022 National Beef Quality Audit results, feedlot workforce development, and exploring options for hiring feedlot employees on visas, with speakers from UNL Extension, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and Nebraska Cattlemen affiliates.

“These are topics we have heard from our producers that they want to know more about. In Bridgeport, we’ll have Danny Reynaga, an attorney (managing attorney Legal Aid of Nebraska), discussing visas and hiring feedlot employees,” said Pablo Loza, Nebraska Extension feedlot management and nutrition specialist.

The roundtable in Bridgeport will also include Lance Darnall (CEO) and Shalane Bright (HR) from Darnall Ranch, who will be on the Feedlot workforce development “Exploring visa options for hiring feedlot employees” panel.

The 2024 Feedlot Roundtable will be from 12:30 to 5 p.m. at the Prairie Winds Community Center in Bridgeport. The cost is $30, and registration is at&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/2024roundtable" target="_blank">https://go.unl.edu/2024roundtable</a>.&nbsp;

By Chabella Guzman, Panhandle Research and Extension CenterThe 2024 Feedlot Roundtables will be going on next week in Nebraska. The roundtables will begin on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the Prairie Winds Community Center in Bridgeport.&nbsp;The roundtables will feature programs and new technologies in cattle feeding, a 2024 market outlook, severe weather responses, the 2022 National Beef Quality Audit results, feedlot workforce development, and exploring options for hiring feedlot employees on visas, with speakers from UNL Extension, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and Nebraska Cattlemen affiliates.“These are topics we have heard from our producers that they want to know more about. In Bridgeport, we’ll have Danny Reynaga, an attorney (managing attorney Legal Aid of Nebraska), discussing visas and hiring feedlot employees,” said Pablo Loza, Nebraska Extension feedlot management and nutrition specialist.The roundtable in Bridgeport will also include Lance Darnall (CEO) and Shalane Bright (HR) from Darnall Ranch, who will be on the Feedlot workforce development “Exploring visa options for hiring feedlot employees” panel.The 2024 Feedlot Roundtable will be from 12:30 to 5 p.m. at the Prairie Winds Community Center in Bridgeport. The cost is $30, and registration is at&nbsp;<a href="https://go.unl.edu/2024roundtable" target="_blank">https://go.unl.edu/2024roundtable</a>.&nbsp;

Roundtable to bring in speakers and panel on feedlot issues

BNSF railway is cleaning up following a train derailment near Cairo in central Nebraska's Hall County.

"BNSF can confirm that a train carrying coal derailed near Cairo, NE at approximately 4:45 a.m. CST, " said BNSF General Director Public Affairs Lena Kent. There are no injuries and the cause is under investigation."

57 coal cars and multiple engines derailed from the BNSF tracks, which sit along Highway 2.&nbsp;

The derailment is currently being cleaned up. 

The public is asked to stay clear of the area.

"BNSF personnel are on site and working as quickly and safely as possible to clear the incident," Kent added.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostBNSF railway is cleaning up following a train derailment near Cairo in central Nebraska's Hall County."BNSF can confirm that a train carrying coal derailed near Cairo, NE at approximately 4:45 a.m. CST, " said BNSF General Director Public Affairs Lena Kent. There are no injuries and the cause is under investigation."57 coal cars and multiple engines derailed from the BNSF tracks, which sit along Highway 2.&nbsp;The derailment is currently being cleaned up. The public is asked to stay clear of the area."BNSF personnel are on site and working as quickly and safely as possible to clear the incident," Kent added.&nbsp;

BNSF cleaning up following Friday train derailment

By Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services

Chadron, NE – Feb 9, 2024 – Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services has announced that its Board of Trustees has accepted the resignation of Nathan Hough as CEO, effective February 16, 2024. The board has appointed Jennifer Brown, CFO, as interim CEO after his departure. Jennifer has served as the CFO at Chadron Community Hospital since April of 2017. The board will begin a search for a permanent CEO shortly.

Nathan Hough is leaving to pursue a new opportunity closer to family. Mr. Hough stated, “I want to thank everyone that has helped to make Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services a top critical access hospital. It has been a great honor to work with our patients, community, Board, and team over the past three years. I look forward to closely following the future success of Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services and wish the Board, and the entire team, all the best.”

"We sincerely thank Nathan for his contributions to Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services and for laying the foundation for the next phase of growth and care for our community and surrounding areas,” Curt Plooster, Board of Trustees President stated. “The board remains focused on Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services reaching its full potential and will work to ensure this transition is smooth while we undertake the search process.”

Over the three years as CEO of Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services, Mr. Hough achieved higher patient satisfaction scores which has led to multiple awards, including Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the nation, and was behind the addition of many new providers and services.

By Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health ServicesChadron, NE – Feb 9, 2024 – Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services has announced that its Board of Trustees has accepted the resignation of Nathan Hough as CEO, effective February 16, 2024. The board has appointed Jennifer Brown, CFO, as interim CEO after his departure. Jennifer has served as the CFO at Chadron Community Hospital since April of 2017. The board will begin a search for a permanent CEO shortly.Nathan Hough is leaving to pursue a new opportunity closer to family. Mr. Hough stated, “I want to thank everyone that has helped to make Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services a top critical access hospital. It has been a great honor to work with our patients, community, Board, and team over the past three years. I look forward to closely following the future success of Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services and wish the Board, and the entire team, all the best.”"We sincerely thank Nathan for his contributions to Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services and for laying the foundation for the next phase of growth and care for our community and surrounding areas,” Curt Plooster, Board of Trustees President stated. “The board remains focused on Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services reaching its full potential and will work to ensure this transition is smooth while we undertake the search process.”Over the three years as CEO of Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services, Mr. Hough achieved higher patient satisfaction scores which has led to multiple awards, including Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in the nation, and was behind the addition of many new providers and services.

Hough resigns as CEO of Chadron Hospital, Brown appointed interm

ALLIANCE, NE – Antelopes will lope, ostriches will fan, kangaroos will do what kangaroos can, polar bears will wear top hats, leopards with spots will wear spats and hyenas will laugh as long as a long giraffe when students from St. Agnes Academy students’ present Doctor Dolittle JR.

About Doctor Dolittle JR. Featuring a book, music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse, Doctor Dolittle JR. is based on the Doctor Dolittle stories by Hugh Lofting and also on the Twentieth Century Fox film staring Rex Harrison, which won Academy Awards for “Best Original Song” and “Best Visual Effects” and earned an Academy Award nomination for “Best Picture.” Set in the year 1837, the musical follows a Dr. John Dolittle, who is loved by everyone in his Western England fishing village community, Puddle-By-The-Sea. After a particularly unsuccessful appointment with a not-so-friendly General Bellowes, Dr. Dolittle realizes his calling and vows to become an animal doctor. With the help of a wise parrot named Polynesia, Dr. Dolittle begins to learn how to speak to animals. Five years later, Dr. Dolittle has learned almost 500 animal languages, has a thriving practice and is planning a grand adventure to seek out the oldest and wisest creature ever to inhabit the Earth: the great pink sea snail. However, through the course of fundraising, Dr. Dolittle makes good on a promise to help a seal escape the circus and reunite with her husband. This act of friendship lands Dr. Dolittle in court and eventually in an asylum. Dr. Dolittle must find a way to free himself so that he may find the great pink sea snail and gain a greater understanding of the world and its inhabitants.

St. Agnes Academy students from grades 5-8 will present the MTI Broadway Junior production Doctor Dolittle JR. on February 29th and March 1st at St. Agnes Academy SAA Parish Center Gym at, located at 1104 Cheyenne. Tickets cost $4.00 adults - $3.00 students pre-school and under free and may be purchased at the door.

Doctor Dolittle JR. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684 www.MTIShows.com.

By St Agnes AcademyALLIANCE, NE – Antelopes will lope, ostriches will fan, kangaroos will do what kangaroos can, polar bears will wear top hats, leopards with spots will wear spats and hyenas will laugh as long as a long giraffe when students from St. Agnes Academy students’ present Doctor Dolittle JR.About Doctor Dolittle JR. Featuring a book, music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse, Doctor Dolittle JR. is based on the Doctor Dolittle stories by Hugh Lofting and also on the Twentieth Century Fox film staring Rex Harrison, which won Academy Awards for “Best Original Song” and “Best Visual Effects” and earned an Academy Award nomination for “Best Picture.” Set in the year 1837, the musical follows a Dr. John Dolittle, who is loved by everyone in his Western England fishing village community, Puddle-By-The-Sea. After a particularly unsuccessful appointment with a not-so-friendly General Bellowes, Dr. Dolittle realizes his calling and vows to become an animal doctor. With the help of a wise parrot named Polynesia, Dr. Dolittle begins to learn how to speak to animals. Five years later, Dr. Dolittle has learned almost 500 animal languages, has a thriving practice and is planning a grand adventure to seek out the oldest and wisest creature ever to inhabit the Earth: the great pink sea snail. However, through the course of fundraising, Dr. Dolittle makes good on a promise to help a seal escape the circus and reunite with her husband. This act of friendship lands Dr. Dolittle in court and eventually in an asylum. Dr. Dolittle must find a way to free himself so that he may find the great pink sea snail and gain a greater understanding of the world and its inhabitants.St. Agnes Academy students from grades 5-8 will present the MTI Broadway Junior production Doctor Dolittle JR. on February 29th and March 1st at St. Agnes Academy SAA Parish Center Gym at, located at 1104 Cheyenne. Tickets cost $4.00 adults - $3.00 students pre-school and under free and may be purchased at the door.Doctor Dolittle JR. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684 www.MTIShows.com.

St Agnes Academy Students to present Doctor Dolittle Jr show

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Swifties and Super Bowl Predictions

By Chabella Guzman, PREEC communications

Fifth graders flooded the halls of the Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff on Feb. 7, when the Nebraska Extension held its second annual Incredible STEM Day. The day featured hands-on activities incorporating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.&nbsp;

“We put (activities) together through the Panhandle 4-H team,” said Nathan Rice, Nebraska Extension 4-H educator. “We had a couple last year we didn’t like and replaced them with two new ones, microbits and coding drones.”&nbsp;

The students from Mitchell Elementary, Northfield Elementary, and Lincoln Elementary, both of Gering, rotated between hour-long workshops studying drones, microbits, mineral properties, and biomedical technology. Fifth graders in the microbits workshop worked with small computers, sensors, and LED lights to create moving animals made of cardboard.&nbsp;

“We wanted the day to offer things schools couldn’t normally get. Such as high-end technology using things most schools don’t have and capturing all of the engineering design processes in stem categories and things they hadn’t seen before.” Rice said.&nbsp;

In three of the four workshops, computers and technology were used, but the students also flexed their mental computers in the Mineral Properties session.&nbsp;

“I really wanted to create a lesson that allowed youth to feel like scientists and do an experiment. Geology was a course that I loved in college and to teach. In this lesson, we spend time talking about minerals, experimenting with their chemical and physical properties, and then youth use their data to try to identify the minerals correctly. We also spend time talking about how these minerals form rocks, particularly rock formations in Western Nebraska,” said Sarah Paisley, 4-H educator for Garden and Morrill Counties.

Students identified minerals such as talc, biotite, magnetite, and more through their unique properties. They also explained the minerals' makeup and utilized a decision tree to identify minerals.

Rice said both the teachers and the kids found the day a blast.

“The teachers said it was the first time coding for the students, and I saw them (students) working to the last minute of the sessions, which is good to see they’re not bored but engaged to the last minute.”

By Chabella Guzman, PREEC communicationsFifth graders flooded the halls of the Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff on Feb. 7, when the Nebraska Extension held its second annual Incredible STEM Day. The day featured hands-on activities incorporating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.&nbsp;“We put (activities) together through the Panhandle 4-H team,” said Nathan Rice, Nebraska Extension 4-H educator. “We had a couple last year we didn’t like and replaced them with two new ones, microbits and coding drones.”&nbsp;The students from Mitchell Elementary, Northfield Elementary, and Lincoln Elementary, both of Gering, rotated between hour-long workshops studying drones, microbits, mineral properties, and biomedical technology. Fifth graders in the microbits workshop worked with small computers, sensors, and LED lights to create moving animals made of cardboard.&nbsp;“We wanted the day to offer things schools couldn’t normally get. Such as high-end technology using things most schools don’t have and capturing all of the engineering design processes in stem categories and things they hadn’t seen before.” Rice said.&nbsp;In three of the four workshops, computers and technology were used, but the students also flexed their mental computers in the Mineral Properties session.&nbsp;“I really wanted to create a lesson that allowed youth to feel like scientists and do an experiment. Geology was a course that I loved in college and to teach. In this lesson, we spend time talking about minerals, experimenting with their chemical and physical properties, and then youth use their data to try to identify the minerals correctly. We also spend time talking about how these minerals form rocks, particularly rock formations in Western Nebraska,” said Sarah Paisley, 4-H educator for Garden and Morrill Counties.Students identified minerals such as talc, biotite, magnetite, and more through their unique properties. They also explained the minerals' makeup and utilized a decision tree to identify minerals.Rice said both the teachers and the kids found the day a blast.“The teachers said it was the first time coding for the students, and I saw them (students) working to the last minute of the sessions, which is good to see they’re not bored but engaged to the last minute.”

 Panhandle students participate in STEM Day by Nebraska Extension

By Patricia Jones Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Redlining is a way America practiced racial discrimination through most of the twentieth century. Understanding redlining is the key to understanding why our cities are segregated and why it is so difficult for minorities to move out of poverty.

During the New Deal (1930's), the federal government created maps of every metropolitan area in the country, including Omaha and Lincoln. The Underwriting Manual of the Federal Housing Administration said that "incompatible racial groups should not be permitted to live in the same communities." These maps were color coded to ensure that minorities, especially blacks, stayed in certain neighborhoods, and whites would be given special financial incentives to move to better neighborhoods.

For each city, government assessors produced maps. Neighborhoods they deemed "best" and safe investments were given a grade of A and colored green. Blue areas, graded B, were still desirable. Yellow, C, areas were declining. Those that were deemed "hazardous" were given a grade of "D" and colored red.

If an area was deemed hazardous, people could not get home loans or insurance. It was simply "too risky" for banks to invest money in the part of town that had red lines drawn around it. Since these policies didn't allow most people to own homes in red areas, they became crowded areas filled with public housing for minorities.

Wealthy minorities were forbidden from buying homes in areas graded A or B. The wealthy areas of a city and the suburbs were for whites.

This discrimination had always occurred in America because people tended to settle in ethnic groups. However, it didn't become government policy until the 1900's. The federal government began formally practicing segregation during World War I, when military housing was only for whites.

The government's segregation policies continued long past the 1930's. After World War II, white soldiers could get GI bills to go to college. They could get VA mortgages to buy houses. FHA loans were only available to whites. VA and FHA loans are guaranteed by the federal government, eliminating a bank's risk. Home ownership was effectively denied to racial minorities.

Redlining was legal until 1968 and still affects most areas of our country, especially cities. It dramatically affected the relative wealth of different racial groups in America. Most middle-class families gain wealth from the equity they have in their homes. People can usually sell homes for much more than they originally paid. They can use homes to secure mortgages or home

improvement loans and get low interest rates. This increase in equity allows families to send children to college and to have something to leave to future generations of their family.

This simply isn't true for most minority families in our country. The Pew Research Center evaluated the median (average) wealth of U.S. households in December, 2021. For white households, the average wealth was $250,000. Hispanics, $48,700. Blacks, $27,100. Native American wealth was harder to find, but estimated to be about $22,000 per household. Remember that wealth is not the same as income. It is the value of cash and assets, or what we own, minus debts.

Wealth and income both have an effect on well-being. People in poverty live in less stable households. They are much more likely to suffer from hunger, poor nutrition, and health problems. They live in substandard housing in polluted areas. Their neighborhoods have fewer amenities like grocery stores, parks, and transportation. According to the National Institutes of Health, the gap in life expectancy is 14.6 years between the richest 1% and poorest 1% of individuals in the U.S.

If you are interested in reading a book about redlining, I'd strongly recommend The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America by Richard Rothstein.

By Patricia Jones Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity Redlining is a way America practiced racial discrimination through most of the twentieth century. Understanding redlining is the key to understanding why our cities are segregated and why it is so difficult for minorities to move out of poverty.During the New Deal (1930's), the federal government created maps of every metropolitan area in the country, including Omaha and Lincoln. The Underwriting Manual of the Federal Housing Administration said that "incompatible racial groups should not be permitted to live in the same communities." These maps were color coded to ensure that minorities, especially blacks, stayed in certain neighborhoods, and whites would be given special financial incentives to move to better neighborhoods.For each city, government assessors produced maps. Neighborhoods they deemed "best" and safe investments were given a grade of A and colored green. Blue areas, graded B, were still desirable. Yellow, C, areas were declining. Those that were deemed "hazardous" were given a grade of "D" and colored red.If an area was deemed hazardous, people could not get home loans or insurance. It was simply "too risky" for banks to invest money in the part of town that had red lines drawn around it. Since these policies didn't allow most people to own homes in red areas, they became crowded areas filled with public housing for minorities.Wealthy minorities were forbidden from buying homes in areas graded A or B. The wealthy areas of a city and the suburbs were for whites.This discrimination had always occurred in America because people tended to settle in ethnic groups. However, it didn't become government policy until the 1900's. The federal government began formally practicing segregation during World War I, when military housing was only for whites.The government's segregation policies continued long past the 1930's. After World War II, white soldiers could get GI bills to go to college. They could get VA mortgages to buy houses. FHA loans were only available to whites. VA and FHA loans are guaranteed by the federal government, eliminating a bank's risk. Home ownership was effectively denied to racial minorities.Redlining was legal until 1968 and still affects most areas of our country, especially cities. It dramatically affected the relative wealth of different racial groups in America. Most middle-class families gain wealth from the equity they have in their homes. People can usually sell homes for much more than they originally paid. They can use homes to secure mortgages or homeimprovement loans and get low interest rates. This increase in equity allows families to send children to college and to have something to leave to future generations of their family.This simply isn't true for most minority families in our country. The Pew Research Center evaluated the median (average) wealth of U.S. households in December, 2021. For white households, the average wealth was $250,000. Hispanics, $48,700. Blacks, $27,100. Native American wealth was harder to find, but estimated to be about $22,000 per household. Remember that wealth is not the same as income. It is the value of cash and assets, or what we own, minus debts.Wealth and income both have an effect on well-being. People in poverty live in less stable households. They are much more likely to suffer from hunger, poor nutrition, and health problems. They live in substandard housing in polluted areas. Their neighborhoods have fewer amenities like grocery stores, parks, and transportation. According to the National Institutes of Health, the gap in life expectancy is 14.6 years between the richest 1% and poorest 1% of individuals in the U.S.If you are interested in reading a book about redlining, I'd strongly recommend The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America by Richard Rothstein.

Getting Ahead, Alliance Community Task Force: Redlining

The Board of Directors of Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP) has declared a quarterly dividend of $1.30 per share on the company’s common stock, payable Mar. 29, 2024, to shareholders of record Feb. 29, 2024.

Union Pacific has paid dividends on its common stock for 125 consecutive years.

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>.

Union Pacific Investor Contact:&nbsp;Brad Stock at 402-544-4227 or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/messages?address=bkstock">bkstock@up.com</a>

Union PacificThe Board of Directors of Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP) has declared a quarterly dividend of $1.30 per share on the company’s common stock, payable Mar. 29, 2024, to shareholders of record Feb. 29, 2024.Union Pacific has paid dividends on its common stock for 125 consecutive years.<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>.Union Pacific Investor Contact:&nbsp;Brad Stock at 402-544-4227 or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/messages?address=bkstock">bkstock@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>

	 Union Pacific Corporation Declares First Quarter 2024 Dividend

Union Pacific Railroad has appointed Andrew Brady to vice president-External Relations, following Printz Bolin’s retirement at the end of February.

Based in Union Pacific’s Washington, D.C., office, Brady is responsible for communicating inside the Beltway about national and state-specific industry issues and projects, including economic and safety regulation, passenger rail, security and labor. He previously served as Union Pacific’s assistant vice president-External Relations. Prior to joining the railroad five years ago, Brady was assistant vice president-Government Affairs at the Association of American Railroads. He also served in various roles in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011-2016, after beginning his career in the Congressional and Public Affairs division of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Bolin was appointed Union Pacific’s vice president-External Relations in 2018, promoting and defending the railroad’s interests as the primary liaison between elected officials, key Congressional committees and Executive Branch agencies, including the U.S. Department of Transportation and Surface Transportation Board. He joined Union Pacific in 1991, holding various roles with the railroad after serving as a senior staff member in the U.S House of Representatives and U.S. Senate.

“Printz’s experience and relationship-building with elected officials and regulators were invaluable to Union Pacific,” said Union Pacific Chief Executive Officer Jim Vena. “I’m thankful for his contributions and looking forward to Andrew’s leadership in D.C.”

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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707420193726.jpeg" alt="Andrew Brady" />
 <figcaption>Andrew Brady</figcaption>
 </figure>Union PacificUnion Pacific Railroad has appointed Andrew Brady to vice president-External Relations, following Printz Bolin’s retirement at the end of February.Based in Union Pacific’s Washington, D.C., office, Brady is responsible for communicating inside the Beltway about national and state-specific industry issues and projects, including economic and safety regulation, passenger rail, security and labor. He previously served as Union Pacific’s assistant vice president-External Relations. Prior to joining the railroad five years ago, Brady was assistant vice president-Government Affairs at the Association of American Railroads. He also served in various roles in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011-2016, after beginning his career in the Congressional and Public Affairs division of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707420234393.jpeg" alt="Printz Bolin" />
 <figcaption>Printz Bolin</figcaption>
 </figure>Bolin was appointed Union Pacific’s vice president-External Relations in 2018, promoting and defending the railroad’s interests as the primary liaison between elected officials, key Congressional committees and Executive Branch agencies, including the U.S. Department of Transportation and Surface Transportation Board. He joined Union Pacific in 1991, holding various roles with the railroad after serving as a senior staff member in the U.S House of Representatives and U.S. Senate.“Printz’s experience and relationship-building with elected officials and regulators were invaluable to Union Pacific,” said Union Pacific Chief Executive Officer Jim Vena. “I’m thankful for his contributions and looking forward to Andrew’s leadership in D.C.”<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 Announces Appointment of Andrew Brady to Vice President-External Relations, Retirement of Printz Bolin

Alliance Police Officer Tyler Sherlock talks about an incident at the Maverick Gas Station on Thursday, where a vehicle crossed the median and hit a gas pump. The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m.

Here is the full conversation with KCOW News Director Alex Benzegala.

<div><iframe title="Officer Sherlock talks crash at Alliance Maverick, SUV hits gas pump" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jawey-1575cb8-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707435350621.png" alt="Car accident at Maverick." />
 <figcaption>Car accident at Maverick.</figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance Police Officer Tyler Sherlock talks about an incident at the Maverick Gas Station on Thursday, where a vehicle crossed the median and hit a gas pump. The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m.Here is the full conversation with KCOW News Director Alex Benzegala.

Vehicle crosses median at Alliance Maverick, three injured (AUDIO)

On Wednesday, February 7th, the Communications Center in Chadron received a call from a manager of a local motel that she was removing two guests due to possible marijuana usage. 

Chadron police officers Christina Hanson and Canine Handler Seth Orsborn responded to area located near the 900 block of West Highway 20. Upon arrival the officers came into contact with two adults moving items from a room and into a Kansas plated vehicle. During their contact with the two adults, Canine Handler Orsborn utilized Canine Sukey, to which Canine Sukey alerted for the presence of illegal narcotics other than marijuana inside the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle was conducted, along with a search of the room the two adults were staying in. As a result of the searches, the officers located used syringes containing suspected methamphetamine, approximately 3.5 grams of suspected methamphetamine, suspected marijuana and several items of drug paraphernalia.

Both adults were placed under arrest and taken to the Dawes County Jail. 33-year-old Derek Howard and 39-year-old Tamara Perkins were charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance (Class IV Felony), Possession of marijuana less than an ounce (Infraction) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Infraction). Bond was set at 10% of $15,000.00 for each of them.

By Chadron Police DepartmentOn Wednesday, February 7th, the Communications Center in Chadron received a call from a manager of a local motel that she was removing two guests due to possible marijuana usage. Chadron police officers Christina Hanson and Canine Handler Seth Orsborn responded to area located near the 900 block of West Highway 20. Upon arrival the officers came into contact with two adults moving items from a room and into a Kansas plated vehicle. During their contact with the two adults, Canine Handler Orsborn utilized Canine Sukey, to which Canine Sukey alerted for the presence of illegal narcotics other than marijuana inside the vehicle.A search of the vehicle was conducted, along with a search of the room the two adults were staying in. As a result of the searches, the officers located used syringes containing suspected methamphetamine, approximately 3.5 grams of suspected methamphetamine, suspected marijuana and several items of drug paraphernalia.Both adults were placed under arrest and taken to the Dawes County Jail. 33-year-old Derek Howard and 39-year-old Tamara Perkins were charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance (Class IV Felony), Possession of marijuana less than an ounce (Infraction) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Infraction). Bond was set at 10% of $15,000.00 for each of them.

Suspicious Circumstance leads to Canine alert and Two Arrests in Chadron

By Molly Langhorst, COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON – A private collection of prints by artists and illustrators of the Old West from 1840 to 1910 is now on display in “The West as They Saw It” in the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center until May 13.

The owner of the collection, Jerry Underwood, grew up ranching and feeding cattle near Alliance, Nebraska. According to Underwood, he began collecting art in the late 1960s.

The Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center is hosting a reception Feb. 16 honoring Underwood’s collection from 4 to 6 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public and will feature baked goods popular in western life during the 19th century. The Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Craving art in his home, Underwood began to purchase prints. He later built his home to accommodate his print collection.

“I met a gentleman at the Colorado Indian Market in Denver years ago who was from Santa Fe and he sent me catalogs of prints and I purchased stuff from there when I saw something that caught my eye,” Underwood said. “I didn’t realize how many I had bought until several years ago when I began to pull them out.”

After selling his feedlot in 2016, Underwood found himself with more free time and began going through his art collection. This is when Underwood framed many pieces and decided he wanted to do something with them.

The Sandoz Center show is the first time Underwood’s collection has been on display.

“As a member of the Sandoz Society, I have been visiting with Laure [Sinn, Sandoz Center Program Coordinator] about displaying my pieces for years, and the timing finally just seemed right,” Underwood said.

Underwood can’t choose just one print as his favorite.

“They’re all my favorite, but I have a lot of pieces by Karl Bodmer,” Underwood said. “His work just appeals to me; he was an extremely talented artist and the Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha is very lucky to have an extensive collection of his work.”

Underwood is also fond of Frederic Remington, an American painter, illustrator, sculptor, and writer who specialized in Western American art during the end of the 19th century. Several of Remington’s illustrated pieces are on display in Underwood’s collection.

One notable piece in Underwood’s collection is “Buffalo Hunt” by Charles Schreyvogel, inscribed to H.S. Withington with a copyright blind stamp from 1901, the same year the printing was completed.

Underwood’s collection also features a piece titled “Emigrants Crossing The Plains” by Felix Octavius Carr Darley, which exists in color at the Sandoz Center. The original had been in black and white, so the Sandoz Center piece is the result of being colorized.

Underwood is passionate about Western history and the stories depicted in his pieces. He believes that the museum is a valuable asset to the Chadron community.

“The museum is a gem and I think more people need to know about it,” Underwood said. “I’m excited to share my collection with others, and I hope that visitors will enjoy the pieces as much as I do.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707410922469.jpeg" alt="Jerry Underwood of Alliance, Neb., points out a blind stamp on a piece by Hal S. Withington on display in “The West as They Saw It” in the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center, January 30, 2024. (Photo by Molly Langhorst/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Jerry Underwood of Alliance, Neb., points out a blind stamp on a piece by Hal S. Withington on display in “The West as They Saw It” in the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center, January 30, 2024. (Photo by Molly Langhorst/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Molly Langhorst, COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – A private collection of prints by artists and illustrators of the Old West from 1840 to 1910 is now on display in “The West as They Saw It” in the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center until May 13.The owner of the collection, Jerry Underwood, grew up ranching and feeding cattle near Alliance, Nebraska. According to Underwood, he began collecting art in the late 1960s.The Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center is hosting a reception Feb. 16 honoring Underwood’s collection from 4 to 6 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public and will feature baked goods popular in western life during the 19th century. The Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.Craving art in his home, Underwood began to purchase prints. He later built his home to accommodate his print collection.“I met a gentleman at the Colorado Indian Market in Denver years ago who was from Santa Fe and he sent me catalogs of prints and I purchased stuff from there when I saw something that caught my eye,” Underwood said. “I didn’t realize how many I had bought until several years ago when I began to pull them out.”After selling his feedlot in 2016, Underwood found himself with more free time and began going through his art collection. This is when Underwood framed many pieces and decided he wanted to do something with them.The Sandoz Center show is the first time Underwood’s collection has been on display.“As a member of the Sandoz Society, I have been visiting with Laure [Sinn, Sandoz Center Program Coordinator] about displaying my pieces for years, and the timing finally just seemed right,” Underwood said.Underwood can’t choose just one print as his favorite.“They’re all my favorite, but I have a lot of pieces by Karl Bodmer,” Underwood said. “His work just appeals to me; he was an extremely talented artist and the Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha is very lucky to have an extensive collection of his work.”Underwood is also fond of Frederic Remington, an American painter, illustrator, sculptor, and writer who specialized in Western American art during the end of the 19th century. Several of Remington’s illustrated pieces are on display in Underwood’s collection.One notable piece in Underwood’s collection is “Buffalo Hunt” by Charles Schreyvogel, inscribed to H.S. Withington with a copyright blind stamp from 1901, the same year the printing was completed.Underwood’s collection also features a piece titled “Emigrants Crossing The Plains” by Felix Octavius Carr Darley, which exists in color at the Sandoz Center. The original had been in black and white, so the Sandoz Center piece is the result of being colorized.Underwood is passionate about Western history and the stories depicted in his pieces. He believes that the museum is a valuable asset to the Chadron community.“The museum is a gem and I think more people need to know about it,” Underwood said. “I’m excited to share my collection with others, and I hope that visitors will enjoy the pieces as much as I do.”

Alliance's Underwood's Western art collection on display at Sandoz Center

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Wenty The Tortilla-Tossing Old Timer

United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Cody D. Vancura, 30, of Lexington, Nebraska, was sentenced on February 7, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska, for transportation of child pornography with a prior conviction.&nbsp; 

Senior United States District Court Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Vancura to 240 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Vancura’s release from prison, he will begin an 8-year term of supervised release.

In January of 2021, Vancura saved child pornography files to his online Google account. The IP address associated with the Google activity was traced to Vancura’s cell phone. Law enforcement contacted Vancura in May of 2021 and he acknowledged ownership of the Google account and cellphone.&nbsp; Vancura also stated he had 219 images of child pornography saved on his cell phone.&nbsp; Vancura also utilized applications on his phone to chat with other online users, send and view child pornography, and pretend to be other people, including children.

Law enforcement conducted a forensic examination of Vancura’s phone and observed at least 200 images and seven videos depicting child pornography.

Vancura had been convicted previously of attempted sexual assault of a minor in Red Willow County, Nebraska in 2014.

This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol and brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.justice.gov/psc" target="_blank">www.justice.gov/psc</a>.

Department of JusticeUnited States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Cody D. Vancura, 30, of Lexington, Nebraska, was sentenced on February 7, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska, for transportation of child pornography with a prior conviction.&nbsp; Senior United States District Court Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Vancura to 240 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Vancura’s release from prison, he will begin an 8-year term of supervised release.In January of 2021, Vancura saved child pornography files to his online Google account. The IP address associated with the Google activity was traced to Vancura’s cell phone. Law enforcement contacted Vancura in May of 2021 and he acknowledged ownership of the Google account and cellphone.&nbsp; Vancura also stated he had 219 images of child pornography saved on his cell phone.&nbsp; Vancura also utilized applications on his phone to chat with other online users, send and view child pornography, and pretend to be other people, including children.Law enforcement conducted a forensic examination of Vancura’s phone and observed at least 200 images and seven videos depicting child pornography.Vancura had been convicted previously of attempted sexual assault of a minor in Red Willow County, Nebraska in 2014.This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol and brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.justice.gov/psc" target="_blank">www.justice.gov/psc</a>.

   Lexington Man Sentenced for Transporting Child Pornography

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/02/07/id-time-is-coming-soon-for-early-voters-in-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — If you’ve put off getting a photo ID in Nebraska and you plan to vote in this spring’s primary elections, get it done.

This year, election officials must check your ID before you can vote, including if you’re voting early by mail.

Douglas County Election Commissioner Brian Kruse fired a warning flare Wednesday, reminding voters of a change to state law.&nbsp;

New this year: Voters requesting a ballot to vote early must provide their ID number from a driver’s license or state ID card.&nbsp;

The state has created a website —&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/voter-id">https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/voter-id</a>&nbsp;— to help voters prepare. People can find their county election offices&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/election-officials-contact-information">here</a>.&nbsp;

Those unwilling to write down an ID number on the request form can instead enclose a photocopy of a state-approved photo ID, which could be&nbsp;passport, college ID or military ID,&nbsp;among others. People with disabilities, illness or religious exceptions can fill out an exception form.

In Douglas County, about half of voters vote early by mail or early in person at the county election office. About 160,000 people have signed up for the county’s early voting list.

“I’m expecting about 85,000 of these (cards) to come back,” Kruse said. “So when voters get them, return them as soon as you can so we can process them.”&nbsp;

State election officials, including Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen, have urged voters to take steps now to reduce the chances of running into trouble while voting.

His office reminded residents in the 11 rural counties that vote entirely by mail that they need to put their ID information on the envelope used to return their ballots. The state’s all-mail-voting counties are Boone, Cedar, Cherry, Clay, Dawes, Dixon, Garden, Knox, Merrick, Morrill and Stanton.

Nebraskans adopted a constitutional amendment in 2022 requiring that election officials check a voter’s photo ID. Lawmakers implemented the change by passing&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Slip/LB514.pdf">Legislative Bill 514</a>.

During bill discussions, defenders of the voting status quo said the burden of requiring an acceptable ID would fall hardest on senior citizens and people without easy access to transportation to get an ID.

Part of the new law included money set aside to pay for a free state ID for voting from the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles if a person does not have one.

Those who pressed for the constitutional amendment said the new law did not go far enough. This year, the Legislature is considering some language fixes that were filibustered.

Evnen, in a statement last month, said, “Every Nebraska voter should be thinking about how voter ID will impact their voting plan,” whether they plan to vote in person or by mail.

The primary election is May 14. Counties will start mailing out requested early voting ballots on April 8. In-person early voting will begin April 15. People must take an ID or vote provisionally and show one afterward.

Kruse said provisional ballots that are cast without a photo ID or number must be cleared up by the close of business on May 21. He said people must take an ID to the county election office.

Like many county election offices across the state, Kruse’s office has been staffing up a little earlier in anticipation of needing more time to review ballot applications.

He said the changes would add an average of 30 seconds to a minute to the time it takes to verify ballot requests. Staff are preparing to answer questions from people unaware of the change.

As for what people should expect this spring at the polls, Kruse said his office is hiring a greeter for every polling place to remind people of the requirements before they wait in line.

“Just bring your ID to the polling place,” he said. “If you forget your ID, you can go get it and come back or you can fill out a provisional and … bring your ID to the office.”

Aaron Sanderford<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/02/07/id-time-is-coming-soon-for-early-voters-in-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — If you’ve put off getting a photo ID in Nebraska and you plan to vote in this spring’s primary elections, get it done.This year, election officials must check your ID before you can vote, including if you’re voting early by mail.Douglas County Election Commissioner Brian Kruse fired a warning flare Wednesday, reminding voters of a change to state law.&nbsp;New this year: Voters requesting a ballot to vote early must provide their ID number from a driver’s license or state ID card.&nbsp;The state has created a website —&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/voter-id">https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/voter-id</a>&nbsp;— to help voters prepare. People can find their county election offices&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sos.nebraska.gov/elections/election-officials-contact-information">here</a>.&nbsp;Those unwilling to write down an ID number on the request form can instead enclose a photocopy of a state-approved photo ID, which could be&nbsp;passport, college ID or military ID,&nbsp;among others. People with disabilities, illness or religious exceptions can fill out an exception form.In Douglas County, about half of voters vote early by mail or early in person at the county election office. About 160,000 people have signed up for the county’s early voting list.“I’m expecting about 85,000 of these (cards) to come back,” Kruse said. “So when voters get them, return them as soon as you can so we can process them.”&nbsp;<h2>State urges voters to plan</h2>State election officials, including Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen, have urged voters to take steps now to reduce the chances of running into trouble while voting.His office reminded residents in the 11 rural counties that vote entirely by mail that they need to put their ID information on the envelope used to return their ballots. The state’s all-mail-voting counties are Boone, Cedar, Cherry, Clay, Dawes, Dixon, Garden, Knox, Merrick, Morrill and Stanton.Nebraskans adopted a constitutional amendment in 2022 requiring that election officials check a voter’s photo ID. Lawmakers implemented the change by passing&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/108/PDF/Slip/LB514.pdf">Legislative Bill 514</a>.During bill discussions, defenders of the voting status quo said the burden of requiring an acceptable ID would fall hardest on senior citizens and people without easy access to transportation to get an ID.Part of the new law included money set aside to pay for a free state ID for voting from the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles if a person does not have one.Those who pressed for the constitutional amendment said the new law did not go far enough. This year, the Legislature is considering some language fixes that were filibustered.Evnen, in a statement last month, said, “Every Nebraska voter should be thinking about how voter ID will impact their voting plan,” whether they plan to vote in person or by mail.<h2>Election starts soon</h2>The primary election is May 14. Counties will start mailing out requested early voting ballots on April 8. In-person early voting will begin April 15. People must take an ID or vote provisionally and show one afterward.Kruse said provisional ballots that are cast without a photo ID or number must be cleared up by the close of business on May 21. He said people must take an ID to the county election office.Like many county election offices across the state, Kruse’s office has been staffing up a little earlier in anticipation of needing more time to review ballot applications.He said the changes would add an average of 30 seconds to a minute to the time it takes to verify ballot requests. Staff are preparing to answer questions from people unaware of the change.As for what people should expect this spring at the polls, Kruse said his office is hiring a greeter for every polling place to remind people of the requirements before they wait in line.“Just bring your ID to the polling place,” he said. “If you forget your ID, you can go get it and come back or you can fill out a provisional and … bring your ID to the office.”

ID time is coming soon for early voters in Nebraska

Social Media Statement of Midwest Theater and Skyview Drive-In in Scottsbluff

After four years of operation, the Friends of the Midwest Theater Board of Directors voted to discontinue operations at the Skyview Drive-In at their January board meeting.  In March 2020, during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, theaters were shut down. The Friends of the Midwest Theater responded to the community’s need for safely gathering by opening the first SkyView Drive-In at the Legacy of the Plains. That same summer the SkyView Drive-In at the Western Nebraska Regional Airport was implemented. 

With the help of several local businesses and community members, the drive-in became a favorite destination for not only local residents but also for visitors from around the region looking for a way to bring normalcy to life during the pandemic. 

Unfortunately, over the past couple of years, the increasing operating costs and declining ticket sales at the drive-in required the Board of Directors to make this difficult decision to close the SkyView Drive-In. With post-pandemic life returning to normal, and the refurbishment and repair of the historic Midwest Theater marquee, a resurgence of attendance and interest in the Midwest Theater has returned. 

We encourage those who enjoyed the SkyView Drive-In to visit the Midwest Theater. We will be partnering with local businesses and organizations to provide family-friendly outdoor movie entertainment during the summer months. 

We wish to thank everyone who made the Midwest SkyView Drive-In Theater possible and in creating a great experience for our local community. Thank you to the following for their support: the Shane &amp; Annette Aulick Family, StorAul, Western Nebraska Regional Airport, KNEB, R&amp;C Crane Service, Scottsbluff Landscaping, DynaTech Electric, MC Schaff Companies, Gering Valley Plumbing &amp; Heating, The Steel Grill/Weborg 21, City of Scottsbluff, Infinity Construction, Superior Construction, Sandberg Implement, Rusch General Construction, VanPelt Fencing, H&amp;H Ventures, Viaero Wireless, The Pumpkin Patch at BE Farm, Ryans Welding,  Nebraska Arts Council, Nebraska Cultural Endowment, Humanities Nebraska, National Endowment for the Humanities, numerous volunteers, and staff and board members of the Friends of the Midwest Theater.

Social Media Statement of Midwest Theater and Skyview Drive-In in ScottsbluffAfter four years of operation, the Friends of the Midwest Theater Board of Directors voted to discontinue operations at the Skyview Drive-In at their January board meeting. In March 2020, during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, theaters were shut down. The Friends of the Midwest Theater responded to the community’s need for safely gathering by opening the first SkyView Drive-In at the Legacy of the Plains. That same summer the SkyView Drive-In at the Western Nebraska Regional Airport was implemented. With the help of several local businesses and community members, the drive-in became a favorite destination for not only local residents but also for visitors from around the region looking for a way to bring normalcy to life during the pandemic. Unfortunately, over the past couple of years, the increasing operating costs and declining ticket sales at the drive-in required the Board of Directors to make this difficult decision to close the SkyView Drive-In. With post-pandemic life returning to normal, and the refurbishment and repair of the historic Midwest Theater marquee, a resurgence of attendance and interest in the Midwest Theater has returned. We encourage those who enjoyed the SkyView Drive-In to visit the Midwest Theater. We will be partnering with local businesses and organizations to provide family-friendly outdoor movie entertainment during the summer months. We wish to thank everyone who made the Midwest SkyView Drive-In Theater possible and in creating a great experience for our local community. Thank you to the following for their support: the Shane &amp; Annette Aulick Family, StorAul, Western Nebraska Regional Airport, KNEB, R&amp;C Crane Service, Scottsbluff Landscaping, DynaTech Electric, MC Schaff Companies, Gering Valley Plumbing &amp; Heating, The Steel Grill/Weborg 21, City of Scottsbluff, Infinity Construction, Superior Construction, Sandberg Implement, Rusch General Construction, VanPelt Fencing, H&amp;H Ventures, Viaero Wireless, The Pumpkin Patch at BE Farm, Ryans Welding, Nebraska Arts Council, Nebraska Cultural Endowment, Humanities Nebraska, National Endowment for the Humanities, numerous volunteers, and staff and board members of the Friends of the Midwest Theater.

Skyview Drive-In in Scottsbluff to shutdown 

POST PODCAST: City Manager Seth Sorenson Discusses Audit, Police Chief Search

By John Weare Keep Alliance Beautiful

A certain percentage of what we recycle at Keep Alliance Beautiful is trash, and, in turn, a small fraction of trash will not pass muster at the Alliance Municipal Landfill.

Bouncing a bit in the passenger seat as Landfill and Refuse Collection Foreman Clint Fankhauser gave me a tour, I saw firsthand where everything goes from baled solid waste to last fall’s composting leaves. Components of the former may last nearly forever before breaking down and tons of the latter could end up in area gardens or landscaping within weeks. So, exactly what and how much does the landfill process throughout a year?

Overall, as previously mentioned, Clint reported 13,927.7 tons as the 2023 volume. He said I could contact McKenna at the Municipal Building offices for amounts by category. I stopped by the finance department to request the most current numbers. McKenna and Amy, both clerks in that second-floor office, located just what I had in mind then printed a hard copy that covered everything welcome in our landfill. Importantly, their total of 15,489.22 tons did not match Clint’s because the “Material Analysis Report” generated this past October is for the fiscal year, Sept. 1, 2022 - Sept. 30, 2023, rather than calendar year.

Calendar or fiscal, take your pick, that is a bit more than a ton of refuse for each person in Box Butte County (based on a 10,842 population in the 2020 U.S. Census). It is interesting to see what was in the mix on the fiscal year (FY) list. Two of the smallest entries on the first page bring back memories from growing up in the country. One ticket accounted for the entire ash entry – .14 tons of burn barrel ashes. Our family, neighbors and two-classroom schoolhouse teachers all burned trash in the ‘80s when trips to “the dump” were reserved for serious cleanup or demolition. Another ticket listed .15 of a ton of baled hay, or what could have been found along our county road driving into school on a morning during harvest.

An assortment of materials – not squeezed in the hulking baler – measured in the hundreds to more than a thousand tons, respectively. Brush (incl. branches/trees), tipping the scales at 853.75 tons, was more than KAB recycled for the same period. Keeping lawns and gardens maintained outside of winter brought 1,362.5 tons of grass clippings and 402.59 tons of leaves.Great, jagged chunks of concrete awaiting the crusher were among loads tallied on 1,598 tickets as part of 1,704 tons of construction/demolition (C&amp;D). Shingles, 407.66 tons total, or 2.74 on average per load, also earned a separate category. Nearly 600 tickets (1,216.62 tons) were simply for “non-baleable” municipal solid waste.

“We don’t bale construction materials, metal, mixed loads – dirt/trash/construction, pretty much anything that’ll destroy the baler – all goes to the loose fill pit (which is) compacted manually with heavy equipment.” Clint said. A burn box incinerates all the branches. Yard waste goes to the compost pile for eventual sale. “We use it to amend the soil on the hill to promote growth, also helps prevent erosion once we get things going.”

For rules and regulations that govern landfill operations, “We work with Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE), that’s the main one,” Clint said, adding that they also “consult with an engineering firm on a lot of things.”

By John Weare Keep Alliance Beautiful<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707322432603.jpeg" alt="Doors open to show the interior of a burn box for branches and brush at the Alliance Municipal Landfill. The roll off is among the approaches to handling materials not acceptable for the baler." />
 <figcaption>Doors open to show the interior of a burn box for branches and brush at the Alliance Municipal Landfill. The roll off is among the approaches to handling materials not acceptable for the baler.</figcaption>
 </figure>A certain percentage of what we recycle at Keep Alliance Beautiful is trash, and, in turn, a small fraction of trash will not pass muster at the Alliance Municipal Landfill.Bouncing a bit in the passenger seat as Landfill and Refuse Collection Foreman Clint Fankhauser gave me a tour, I saw firsthand where everything goes from baled solid waste to last fall’s composting leaves. Components of the former may last nearly forever before breaking down and tons of the latter could end up in area gardens or landscaping within weeks. So, exactly what and how much does the landfill process throughout a year?Overall, as previously mentioned, Clint reported 13,927.7 tons as the 2023 volume. He said I could contact McKenna at the Municipal Building offices for amounts by category. I stopped by the finance department to request the most current numbers. McKenna and Amy, both clerks in that second-floor office, located just what I had in mind then printed a hard copy that covered everything welcome in our landfill. Importantly, their total of 15,489.22 tons did not match Clint’s because the “Material Analysis Report” generated this past October is for the fiscal year, Sept. 1, 2022 - Sept. 30, 2023, rather than calendar year.Calendar or fiscal, take your pick, that is a bit more than a ton of refuse for each person in Box Butte County (based on a 10,842 population in the 2020 U.S. Census). It is interesting to see what was in the mix on the fiscal year (FY) list. Two of the smallest entries on the first page bring back memories from growing up in the country. One ticket accounted for the entire ash entry – .14 tons of burn barrel ashes. Our family, neighbors and two-classroom schoolhouse teachers all burned trash in the ‘80s when trips to “the dump” were reserved for serious cleanup or demolition. Another ticket listed .15 of a ton of baled hay, or what could have been found along our county road driving into school on a morning during harvest.An assortment of materials – not squeezed in the hulking baler – measured in the hundreds to more than a thousand tons, respectively. Brush (incl. branches/trees), tipping the scales at 853.75 tons, was more than KAB recycled for the same period. Keeping lawns and gardens maintained outside of winter brought 1,362.5 tons of grass clippings and 402.59 tons of leaves.Great, jagged chunks of concrete awaiting the crusher were among loads tallied on 1,598 tickets as part of 1,704 tons of construction/demolition (C&amp;D). Shingles, 407.66 tons total, or 2.74 on average per load, also earned a separate category. Nearly 600 tickets (1,216.62 tons) were simply for “non-baleable” municipal solid waste.“We don’t bale construction materials, metal, mixed loads – dirt/trash/construction, pretty much anything that’ll destroy the baler – all goes to the loose fill pit (which is) compacted manually with heavy equipment.” Clint said. A burn box incinerates all the branches. Yard waste goes to the compost pile for eventual sale. “We use it to amend the soil on the hill to promote growth, also helps prevent erosion once we get things going.”For rules and regulations that govern landfill operations, “We work with Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE), that’s the main one,” Clint said, adding that they also “consult with an engineering firm on a lot of things.”

Alliance Landfill – What We Throw Away

Turning manure nutrients into better crop yields while protecting the environment will be the focus of the Nebraska Extension workshop “Manure Better” with land application training on Feb. 19 at the UNL Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff. The workshop will focus on what fields should be chosen to utilize manure nutrients and other benefits best.

“Our workshops have traditionally been focused on livestock producers because they’re required to attend manure training regularly, but we’ve made an effort to include the crop farmers that are often the recipients of the manure because the information we share is just as valuable to them and their bottom line,” said Leslie Johnson, UNL animal manure management coordinator. The workshops will still meet the educational requirements for permitted livestock operations laid out by the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy’s Title 130.

The hands-on workshop will focus on turning manure nutrients into better crop yield while protecting the environment. The workshop will include an update on regulations and discussions on the best use of manure on cropland. Participants will be given a scenario and asked to determine the priority ranking of each field within the scenario. This ranking will be done at the end of each activity, focusing on manure nutrients, transportation costs, soil health, water quality, neighbors, and odors. Regulations and record-keeping about manure storage and application will also be addressed during each session.

The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and include a lunch at the Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff. Workshop size is limited, and the registration deadline is Feb. 15. The workshop costs $75 per operation or $25 per person, with no expectation of certification. Register at water.unl.edu/lat.

The workshops are sponsored by the Nebraska Extension Animal Manure Management Team. For additional information on the workshop and other resources for managing manure nutrients, visit manure.unl.edu or contact Leslie Johnson at 402-584-3818 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:leslie.johnson@unl.edu">leslie.johnson@unl.edu</a>.

By Chabella GuzmanTurning manure nutrients into better crop yields while protecting the environment will be the focus of the Nebraska Extension workshop “Manure Better” with land application training on Feb. 19 at the UNL Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff. The workshop will focus on what fields should be chosen to utilize manure nutrients and other benefits best.“Our workshops have traditionally been focused on livestock producers because they’re required to attend manure training regularly, but we’ve made an effort to include the crop farmers that are often the recipients of the manure because the information we share is just as valuable to them and their bottom line,” said Leslie Johnson, UNL animal manure management coordinator. The workshops will still meet the educational requirements for permitted livestock operations laid out by the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy’s Title 130.The hands-on workshop will focus on turning manure nutrients into better crop yield while protecting the environment. The workshop will include an update on regulations and discussions on the best use of manure on cropland. Participants will be given a scenario and asked to determine the priority ranking of each field within the scenario. This ranking will be done at the end of each activity, focusing on manure nutrients, transportation costs, soil health, water quality, neighbors, and odors. Regulations and record-keeping about manure storage and application will also be addressed during each session.The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and include a lunch at the Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff. Workshop size is limited, and the registration deadline is Feb. 15. The workshop costs $75 per operation or $25 per person, with no expectation of certification. Register at water.unl.edu/lat.The workshops are sponsored by the Nebraska Extension Animal Manure Management Team. For additional information on the workshop and other resources for managing manure nutrients, visit manure.unl.edu or contact Leslie Johnson at 402-584-3818 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:leslie.johnson@unl.edu">leslie.johnson@unl.edu</a>.

Engaging Agriculture: ‘Manure Better’ workshop scheduled in Scottsbluff

By Western Nebraska Community College

ALLIANCE, Neb. (Feb. 6, 2024) -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College named Allie Tyree as the new Alliance campus director in January.

Tyree began with WNCC in February of 2018 as the executive secretary of the Alliance Campus and was promoted in 2022 to the Alliance workforce specialist.

By Western Nebraska Community CollegeALLIANCE, Neb. (Feb. 6, 2024) -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College named Allie Tyree as the new Alliance campus director in January.Tyree began with WNCC in February of 2018 as the executive secretary of the Alliance Campus and was promoted in 2022 to the Alliance workforce specialist."I am eager for the opportunity to advocate for Alliance, and the entire northern tier of the Panhandle," Tyree said. "We have opportunities here that are different from our other campuses, and I am looking forward to becoming a catalyst for change in the areas that are needed. Community colleges are uniquely positioned to help genuinely change the lives of our students, and in this new position I am looking most forward to finding opportunities to do more of that."&nbsp;Tyree is currently in the Business Administration program at Chadron State College and will graduate in May with her bachelor's degree, with the plans to continue toward a master's degree next fall. Along with her role at WNCC, she has also served on the Alliance Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors since January 2021 and has been the president of the board since 2023. She also serves on the Ambassador's Committee, Heritage Days Committee, Leadership Box Butte Advisory Board and is a member of the Rural Business Leadership Initiative at Chadron State."Alliance is a special place, and I have been honored to be a part of some of the wonderful things happening here," she said. "I hope to become further involved in anything that we can do to help our community grow and succeed."The Alliance Campus has been without a dedicated campus director since 2020. Paula Abbott stepped in as the executive director of the Alliance and Sidney campuses, but will now be able to focus on the needs of the Sidney Campus and the southern tier of the Panhandle, while Tyree is able to focus on Alliance and the northern tier."I'm grateful for all the partnerships that we have been able to create in Alliance," Abbott said. "But both campuses deserve direct attention as each have different opportunities and needs. With directors on both campuses, we will be able to increase our presence in the northern and southern tiers of the Panhandle. The Alliance Campus is in great hands with Allie at the helm."

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